LIFELONG LEARNING
SAMPLE ADULT CLASSES

This page provides examples of adult classes that are offered from time to time at Elverhøj. Click here for current class schedule.

BOBBIN LACEMAKING

Bobbin Lacemaking is one of the oldest crafts, dating back until at least the 16th century. This four-session class leads a small group of beginners in the basics of these age-old techniques.
 
The class begins with a short history and a review of recommended supplies and moves right into step-by-step demonstrations and hands-on practice. Participants learn basic techniques and how to make a simple edging.
 
Instructor Clara Ehrsam has been a docent and bobbin lace maker at Elverhøj for nine years. She retired after operating a licensed family day care for 20 years. She happened to see a lace maker while attending a Renaissance Festival and, determined to learn the craft, taught herself lace making from a book. At Elverhøj she was mentored by retired docent Phyllis Lotz and looks forward to helping others learn lace making.

FLORAL ESCAPE

Participants enjoy an evening of creative fun — perfect for the spring holidays and everyday. The class touches on design topics (table décor, special events such as Easter and Mother’s Day), corsage work for prom and weddings, and all occasion designs. Special attention is devoted to creating from your own garden, using commonly available items to create beautiful and unique arrangements on a small budget.

Instructor Mindi Christian was born and raised in Solvang. Her interest in floral design began while watching her grandmother create beautiful and unusual arrangements from the flowers and foliage in her garden. She studied floral design at Cal Poly, works part-time in area flower shops, and has earned acceptance to the American Institute of Floral Design.

BEADED JEWELRY MAKING
 
This hands-on class covers the techniques used to make unique beaded jewelry creations from start to finish. From selection of supplies to assembly methods and clasp styles, participants learn the basics of making necklaces, earrings and bracelets. There are also tips for future projects. By the end of class, you can have a new necklace and earrings or bracelet.
 
This class is also useful for those that have beads that need to be strung or restyled for a fresh look. Participants are encouraged to bring beads (strung or loose) that suit their own style and/or taste. Tools, supplies and a selection of beads will be provided.
 
Artist/Teacher Kristen Johnson was born and raised in Solvang. A graduate of CSU Chico, she earned a degree in Art Education. An artist of many mediums, her passion for jewelry making was fueled by working with an eclectic and very successful silversmith. She regularly sells her jewelry at craft fairs and area boutiques and especially enjoys sharing the craft with others.

SMØRREBRØD:
DANISH OPEN-FACED SANDWICHES

This popular hands-on course focuses on the ingredients and techniques used in preparing open-faced sandwiches, the tasty and versatile Danish lunch favorite. Inspired and imaginative food combinations are essential to the artfully constructed smørrebrød, which literally means bread and butter. With an emphasis on garnishes and presentation, Danish open-faced sandwich preparation makes a fun and tasty class!
 
Instructor ElseMarie Petersen is a Denmark native who trained in her family kitchen, enjoying many meals of smørrebrød. She and husband Aaron own and operate a local restaurant where the menu includes several of her favorite Danish sandwiches.

BEGINNING CONVERSATIONAL DANISH

Conversational Danish is a six-session class held one evening a week for 90 minutes. The course is an introduction to communicating in Danish with an emphasis on conversation and vocabulary. Several guest instructors join teacher ElseMarie Petersen as she touches on topics such as Danish history, food, and contemporary culture. The series concludes with a special 2.5-hour class featuring Danish food and traditions.
 
Instructor ElseMarie Petersen was born and raised in Denmark, arriving in the Santa Ynez Valley in 1987. Four active kids keep her busy as does working with husband Aaron at their local restaurant. Some class materials have been gathered during her trips to Denmark to visit family and friends. Class fee includes instructional handouts.