Kellogg Community College’s Lifelong Learning Department offers classes and workshops across a variety of subject areas for personal enrichment, without the pressure of homework, tests or grades.
This spring’s schedule includes classes focused on welding art, soapmaking, string art, crocheting, photography, henna and more.
Below is a list of upcoming arts and crafts classes offered via KCC’s Lifelong Learning Department. Unless otherwise indicated, all classes will be held in the Lane-Thomas Building on KCC’s campus at 450 North Ave. in Battle Creek.
Beginning & Intermediate Welding Art
6 to 8 p.m. Mondays, March 2 to April 27
RMTC Welding Lab, 405 Hill Brady Road, Battle Creek
$179 (member), $199 (non-member)
Have you always been curious about metal art and wondered if it was for you? In this combination beginning and intermediate level class we’ll take your vision of a metal art object — whether it’s a wall hanging, a table top piece, a garden object or an abstract sculpture — and convert it into a real, steel object.
After you’ve determined your project design (either beginning or intermediate, depending on your experience level), you’ll begin by observing and then, with your instructor’s guidance and supervision, you’ll experience each step in the metal forming process: bending, cutting, welding and grinding. If you have completed Welding Art Basics, you can expand your project scope and gain experience with new techniques.
All equipment, tools, safety gear, protective clothing and supplies for one small- to medium-sized art project are included in the cost of the class.
NOTE: If you wish to build a larger sculpture, you will work with your instructor to determine the cost and source of additional materials. There will be no class on April 6.
Rub-a-Dub-Dub: Create All-Natural Soaps
6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, March 17
$59 (member), $79 (non-member)
Do you want to save money, help the environment and keep your family shiny clean? In this hands-on soap making class, you’ll create 100% natural soaps including laundry soap, liquid hand soap, bar soap and a shampoo that smells great.
Come prepared to get a little messy (in a clean kind of way) and you’ll take home your finished soaps along with recipes to make more at home. These unique and handmade soaps make excellent gifts for friends and family, too.
Simply String Art
1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Thursday, April 2
$19 (member), $35 (non-member)
First popular in the late 1960s, string art is making a comeback! In this hands-on class, you’ll learn the steps involved: choosing a pattern, forming the outlines with a hammer and nails (the instructor will have pre-made patterns if you don’t want to do this part), and then weaving the embroidery floss to fill in your pattern.
You’ll leave with decor to brighten up your home or give as a gift! All materials are included in the cost of the class.
Beginning Crochet
6 to 8 p.m. Mondays, April 13 to 27
$35 (member), $45 (non-member)
Don’t know how to hold a crochet hook? Don’t worry; this class is the perfect place to get started.
You will learn the basics of chain stitch, single and double crochet techniques. You will complete two small projects as you learn how to start the chain, fasten off, turn chains and work in both rows and rounds.
Please bring a size H crochet hook and a skein of good quality worsted weight cotton yarn in a light color.
Digital Photography Essentials
6 to 8 p.m. Mondays, May 4 to June 1
$45 (member), $55 (non-member)
Are you tired of cutting off the top of your friends’ heads in pictures? Designed for beginning digital photographers, this class is filled with tips and tricks to help you take better photographs.
You’ll learn the principles of good photography and get the skills necessary to create amazing photos. You’ll get the basics of photographic terminology and your instructor, a professional photographer, will share must-know lighting and composition techniques.
Learn how to position yourself and your subject so you capture the best photo possible with the camera you have — no additional gear needed.
If you want to take more memorable and inspiring photographs of your travels, your friends and family, or the great outdoors, then this class is for you.
NOTE: This class is for users of DSLR cameras only; please bring your camera to class. On April 18, the class will meet at K Drive Greenhouse, located at 4792 K Dr S in East Leroy, to focus on nature photos. There will be no class May 25.
Discover Henna: Hand & Wrist Art
6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 19
$49 (member), $59 (non-member)
Have you seen the beautiful traditional, temporary tattoos that are used to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, Hindu weddings and other auspicious occasions? The magical art of mehndi, or henna painting, has been practiced for centuries in India, Africa and the Middle East, and now we’re bringing it here to you.
Don’t miss this fun class where you’ll learn the history and traditions of henna. You’ll discover the art of mixing and using henna with a painting technique to create a unique design that will last up to three weeks. Plus, you’ll get a kit to take home to freshen up your artwork later.
Registration
Registration for the above classes can be completed entirely online by clicking through the appropriate link in the class list above or via the links at www.kellogg.edu/lifelongcrafts. Registration can also be completed:
- By phone by calling KCC’s Lifelong Learning Department at 269-965-4134 and registering with a credit or debit card
- In person at the Lifelong Learning office in room 305 of the Lane Thomas Building on KCC’s North Avenue campus in Battle Creek
For more information about this or other KCC Lifelong Learning classes and events, email ll-info@kellogg.edu or call 269-965-4134.