Expand your creativity at the Workspace! Led by experienced instructors, Workspace classes offer opportunities to explore a range of media, including ceramics, glass, metals, fibers, and woods. Whether you're looking to try something completely new, or want to dive deeper into a current crafty interest, you have come to the right place.

Classes are open to ages 18+. 

Unless otherwise noted, all levels of experience are welcome, and all supplies are included in the class fee!

This page is updated throughout the semester as new offerings are added.

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Spring 2026 Classes

 

  • Bracelet made with twisted copper and orange stones

    Copper and Gemstone Bracelet Class

    Anyone can string beads, but creating your own links and jump rings with wire will level up your jewelry game. Choose from an assortment of gemstone beads and practice using pliers, files, and cutters while learning basic wireworking techniques. 

    Mondays beginning January 26, 7-9pm for 2 weeks

    ISU $35/Public $45

    Instructor: Terrie Hoeffer

    This class is full. Email workspace@iastate.edu to join the waitlist.

  • person using their hands to build a bowl out of clay

    Hand-built Pottery Class

    Hand-building can result in an organic look, as well as pottery with more refined features. Starting with a pinch pot, explore and learn how to elevate your piece by using tools for smoothing, carving, and adding texture. Move on to our slab roller to create sheets for practicing the skill of joining clay for building functional ware. All skill levels, including beginners, are welcome!

    Wednesdays beginning January 28, 5:30-8:30pm for 3 weeks

    ISU $90/Public $100

    Instructor: Valerie Williams

  • A red shirt with a white embroidered flower and a white shirt with flowers and leaves embroidered above the pocket

    Embroidered Embellishment Class

    Adding embroidery to a neckline, sleeve, or pocket makes clothing feel new again! In week one, bring one or two light to medium-weight shirts made of natural fibers (such as cotton). We stocked up on pre-made “stick and stitch” designs, or you can draw your own idea and learn basic stitches to get started. The following week, see how to do visible mending (or stain covering) with Sashiko patterns, or bring a more challenging item like jeans to try. Not sure what to bring? Hit a thrift store and let’s upcycle!

    Wednesdays beginning January 28, 7-9pm for 2 weeks

    ISU $36/Public $46

    Instructor: Judy Lemish

  • wooden key rack with mail in the slot on keys on the pegs

    Woodshop Orientation

    Learn the fundamentals of our woodworking equipment and which tool to choose for the job at hand. Practice using the machinery while making a handy key rack you can take home after class. Safety is a Workspace priority, so the orientation is required to use the woodshop independently.

    Thursday, January 29 from 4-7pm OR

    Monday, February 23 from 5-8pm 

    ISU and Public $35

    Instructor: John Burright

  • Four students at pottery wheels in the Workspace making things with clay

    Level I Wheel Pottery Class

    An introduction to creating functional pottery on the wheel. Start with the building blocks of centering clay and pulling cylinders, and move on to make bowls, mugs, and other forms. Learn how to pull handles, glaze, and finishing techniques, and build the skills to continue independently. This class is open to beginners only.

    Tuesdays beginning February 3, 4-6:30pm for 8 weeks with Bree Engelhardt (No class March 17)

    Wednesdays beginning February 18, 6-8:30pm for 8 weeks with Valerie Williams (No class March 18)

    ISU $180/Public $190

    These classes are full. Email workspace@iastate.edu to join the waitlist.

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    Kumihimo Bracelet Class

    Kumihimo, a traditional Japanese braiding technique once used by samurai to decorate and secure their armor, has had a resurgence in modern jewelry making. At the first class, learn the essential 8-strand Kumihimo braid using satin cord, the foundation for endless projects. The second week you will use two types of cord and incorporate seed beads. Make colorful bracelets and continue after class with the take-home Kumihimo disk.

    Mondays beginning February 16, 6-8pm for 2 weeks

    ISU $45/Public $55

    Instructor: Karen Van Wert

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    Stained Glass Class

    Create a small panel using an array of beautifully colored glass. Learn how to handle glass, choose colors and textures, fit glass to patterns, cut, grind, foil, and solder. Enhanced by daylight, your piece will change based on the weather, season, and time of day.

    Tuesdays beginning February 17, 6-8:30pm for 4 weeks

    ISU $100/Public $110

    Instructor: Rod Simpson

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    Level II Wheel Pottery Class

    If you have taken a beginning pottery class or have the basic skills to throw on the wheel, this class is for you! The first classes will include demonstrations of new forms and techniques, and a session dedicated to better glazing. The last weeks will have lessons based on requests from students. There will be time for practicing in class and for individual questions throughout the course. 

    Students must know how to center, bring up a wall, and pull out a floor to be ready for this class.

    Thursdays beginning February 26, 5:30-8pm for 6 weeks. (No class March 19)

    ISU $145/Public $155

    Instructor: Greg Lamont

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    Glass Beads Class

    Learn to create colorful beads by heating and shaping glass with a torch – yes, we get to work with fire! Build your skills with step-by-step instruction and see how the quality of your beads evolves. Use these beauties in your next jewelry project, or display them as tiny works of art. For very beginners or a great refresher for those who would like to brush up on their skills.

    Mondays beginning March 2, 6-8:30pm for 4 weeks (No class March 18)

    ISU $90/Public $100

    Instructor: Rhonda Scott