Makers Mill offers month of creative summer workshops for youth

WOLFEBORO — Looking for a creative, hands-on way to keep kids engaged during summer vacation? Makers Mill is offering a month-long series of Youth Vacation Arts & Crafts workshops throughout July, giving children ages 7-13 the opportunity to explore art, design, and making through a wide variety of fun and educational projects.

Running weekdays from July 1 through July 31, the series features a different creative activity nearly every day from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., allowing families to register for a single class or build their own summer experience by attending multiple sessions.

Projects range from 3D canvas painting, colorful ceramic magnets, decoupage, stuffed toys, and rock art creations to watercolor painting, paper marbling, terrariums, wind chimes, cork birdhouses, and decorative signs. Young makers will also have the opportunity to explore leatherworking through several beginner-friendly projects, including leather coasters, bowls, wristbands, keychains, pouches, and charms.

Other classes invite students to paint their pets, create octopus-themed canvas paintings, experiment with Zentangle drawing, design paper collages, build miniature ecosystems in mason jar terrariums, and discover new ways of seeing through drawing from a bird’s-eye view. Every workshop is designed to encourage creativity, problem-solving, and confidence through hands-on making.

“These workshops are designed to give kids the chance to try new materials, learn new skills, and express their creativity in a supportive environment,” said Carol Holyoake, program director at Makers Mill. “Every class is hands-on, and students leave with something they created themselves.”

Classes are taught by Jennifer MacLean, a fine artist, leathersmith artisan, Lakes Region Art Association Gallery member, occupational therapy assistant, and speech and language assistant. MacLean also teaches Creator Camp, an adaptive arts program for children with special needs at Makers Mill, and regularly leads the popular Paint Your Pet workshops.

Each workshop is limited to six students, allowing for plenty of individual attention and support. A volunteer assistant will also be present each day. All materials are included, and students should bring a lunch or snack and a drink in a sealable container.

Unlike a traditional summer camp, families have the flexibility to choose the classes that best match their child's interests. Whether attending for a single day or returning throughout the month, participants will have the opportunity to explore a wide variety of artistic techniques, materials, and creative experiences.

Classes take place in the Upstairs Arts Space at Makers Mill and are open to youth ages 7–13. Registration is required, and spaces are expected to fill quickly.

For a complete list of classes and registration links, visit makersmill.org/July. To register by phone or learn more, call 603-569-1500 or email carol@makersmill.org.