Alexandria Public Schools Community Education

Come and join a fun class to play the fun card game 500. This class is for anyone who plays and enjoys the game, or maybe hasn’t played the game in many years. The basic rules and steps will be taught so a great session for rookies who want to learn or anyone who needs a refresher. You will also learn how to play the 2-person and 3-person version of 500.

Don't write in that book! Don't tear the pages! Don't turn down the corner! Have you ever heard a teacher or librarian say those things? Well, in this class we are throwing all that out the window and “breaking the rules”. We are turning books into art. Who’s in? In this three session workshop we will alter used hard-backed books and re-purpose them into wonderful works of art. Your book and its pages will be your canvas as you draw, paint, rip, fold, stamp, and more. If you like any type of art - collage, scrapbooking, stamping, or mixed media - then you will love making an altered book. Registration includes supplies; the participant at later workshop sessions might want to bring additional materials to personalize their book pages such as photographs, stamps, papers, etc.

Learn about needles, yarns, casting on/off and basic stitches, enough to do a simple scarf.  A supply list will be sent with registration confirmation.

Create your own versatile box for your unique décor. Paint it the color you want, with the wording that works for your home. You can fill with florals, jars, or whatever you want. Make it as unique as you. Choose from ‘Gather, Grateful, Blessed, Welcome, Simply Blessed, or Farm Fresh’. Instruction, stencils and all supplies will be provided by ‘The Design Station’. 

Cut and stack pieces of glass that will eventually melt together into a work of art. You'll create your own unique pendant. All materials and tools are supplied.

Have you ever thought about playing acoustic guitar around the campfire? Here’s your chance to learn a few simple chords that will help you be ready for your first concert this summer. Kyle Anderson from i-Try Studios will introduce you to the very basics of playing acoustic guitar so that you can play some ditties for your friends — if you choose to do so! After just four classes, Kyle hopes that you will feel comfortable enough to play some basic sing-along songs and that you will be inspired to expand your acoustic prowess.

Learn to make savory breads using dough that you mix in minutes, that you can store for up to two weeks, and that will allow you to have fresh artisan breads in five minutes a day! Bake a loaf in class to share, plus bring home a batch of dough to make more bread over the next two weeks. Class includes demonstration, hands-on and tasting. Bring a five quart mixing bowl with cover to take home your dough.

Have you ever wanted to stamp your own jewelry? Now is your chance to create a one of a kind bracelet for you or perfect for a gift. You choose what you want the bracelet to say and get guided step-by-step instructions on how to create it. 

Make your own polished rocks for setting into metal wire wrapping, or just for admiring. In this class you will learn how to cut and polish rocks into beautiful pieces using the lapidary equipment at the studio. Bring your own rocks or use some the instructor will bring. A $5 materials fee is payable to the instructor. 

Not sure what to give your friends for the holidays? Why not try making some handmade soap? i-Try Studio will show you how to make your own handmade soap, step by step, using the cold processing technique. Leave class with a sample and the courage to tackle this project and clean up your dirty work with soaps of your own design.