Registration for this schedule starts on 12/01/2025 and ends on 10/09/2026
Participants must be 18 years to 120 years old when the program starts.
CROCHET + (ADVANCED BEGINNER)
INSTRUCTOR: BETH BATTEY
Students will learn how to put simple crochet stitches (single, half, and double crochet and others as needed) together to complete fun projects. We will read patterns to complete simple amigurumi, an emotional support chicken and a market bag and if time permits simple crochet earrings.
Class fee: $50.00
Materials fee: $100.00.
Prerequisite: Some experience required
Beth Ann Battey
Although I was born and raised in New York, I consider myself a former Rhode Islander and current Kentuckian. I have been blessed to travel, explore new mediums, enhance my skills in my chosen crafts in this stage of life (retirement). I learned to crochet from my grandmother, Marie, when “I was knee high to a grasshopper.” She sits on my shoulder and is the reason I will “frog”(rip out) a mistake even if it’s several rows back. Over time I have picked up and put down my hooks to work on various projects. About 10 years ago I worked and developed my skills as a hooker and fiber artist and love to try new patterns and find various types of yarn. My mother used “Red Heart” and did granny squares. I made an amigurumi as a baby shower gift and my fiber world exploded to include so much more than simple acrylic yarn and squares!
As a school administrator, I had lunch duty every day. I began crocheting (or knitting) during this time and this led to several students asking me to begin a crochet club. What a positive experience! I got to see students in a completely different environment and they saw me as an adult they could count on. Each student came to the group with a different set of skills and knowledge. I had to determine their ability and skill level. We helped each other learn and grow. We made hats for the NICU unit and scarves for the homeless. A community developed, bringing different personalities and beliefs together within the school. Those relationships lasted outside the school.
I have added embroidery (with wool applique) to my passions and I have improved my knitting (thanks to my daughter's desire for various items). When I retired and traveled I began to “collect yarn” from the various locations I visited. When we were living in our motorhome, I used the top bunk for yarn storage (and beads). So it could be said I have a yarn addiction. This past summer I entered a piece in the county fair and won a blue ribbon, giving me the confidence boost I needed. I do not sell many pieces but give them away; however, I plan to expand my skills and perhaps find additional avenues for my work. I hope to bring others into the fiber world and to develop new passions.
Please contact William Holland School of Lapidary Arts if you have any questions.