A sampling of fiber arts classes by and for Nordic hands

Online Classes

Wool Embroidered Coin Purse, with Nordic Hands contributor Laura Berlage. Thursdays, Oct. 10-24, 2024.  nspired by traditional Nordic embroidery designs, explore the world of wool-on-wool embroidery with a variety of stitches while making a charming miniature purse.

Selbu Mittens, with Maree Hampton. Saturdays, Nov. 2-16, 2024. Learn the skills needed to create classic Norwegian Selbu mittens, beloved for their beautiful patterns and cozy warmth.

Rutevev Sheepskin Pillow  with Nordic Hands contributor Laura Berlage. Saturdays, Nov. 2 through Dec. 14, 2024.  This class combines the rutevev tapestry technique with the tradition of skinfell, or sheepskin coverlets.

Knit a Norwegian-inspired Hat  with Kare Running. Mondays, Dec. 15 through Dec. 19, 2024. Work with a Nordic-inspired motif and learn the cultural tradition of stranded knitting. 

The National Nordic Museum posts a variety of free family-friendly videos that teach everything from basic weaving to making a paper Nordic dragon for Halloween (or any time you need a Nordic dragon). You can find them here.

 In-person Classes

Baskets Through the Ages, with Steena Madsen at the American Swedish Institute, Oct. 11-13, 2024. Join visiting Danish basket maker and historian Steen Hedegaard Madsen for an hour-long presentation of European basket traditions.

Danish Willow Basket Exploration, with Steena Madsen at the American Swedish Institute, Oct. 10, 2024. Explore the deep and wide tradition of willow basketry with renowned Danish basket maker Steen Hedegaard Madsen in this three-day course.

You can always find more excellent classes at the Folk Art School at Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, the Nordic Handcraft Program at the American Swedish Institute, and through education programs at the National Nordic Museum.

This special exhibit at the American Swedish Institute explores the work and legacy of Karin Bergöö Larsson (1859–1928), a groundbreaking artist whose approach to textiles and design ushered in a new era of interior design and established the iconic Swedish style that continues to inspire contemporary artists worldwide, including both independent makers and brands such as IKEA. Her floral motifs, vivid colors, and charming simplicity of her style remain heavily influential nearly a century after her death. Learn more about this exhibit.

Readers of Nordic Hands will know that trolls loom large in Nordic culture. A charming new six-site art exhibition entitled NW Trolls: Way of the Bird King, is available for your viewing pleasure in the Portland and Seattle areas.  The unique project features six giant hand-built Nordic troll characters, designed by acclaimed Danish environmental artist and storyteller Thomas Dambo, installed at five locations in the Puget Sound region and one in Portland, Oregon. These gentle giants will surely bring a smile to your face. You can find out more about the trolls and how to visit them at nwtrolls.org.