MAPS Community Education

10/22/2026

Last night we held a Coiled Basket class, and it was fantastic! The immediate feedback was extremely positive, and everyone had a great time! We'll bring back this class in a few variations this spring! Watch for that to drop in mid-January.

10/02/2026

What an incredible time we had at our Linocut Printing class!
From the very first carve to the final reveal, the room was packed with amazing energy, creativity, and a little bit of magic.

We started the session by learning the basics of block printmaking, covering essential safety tips for using the carving tools, and mapping out our unique designs. There is something incredibly therapeutic and satisfying about carving your own design.

Once the blocks were ready, the real thrill began—rolling out the ink, applying the perfect amount of pressure, and pulling that very first print! Seeing everyone's unique visions come to life as bold, textured, limited-edition art pieces was definitely the highlight of the day.

A massive thank you to everyone who joined us, shared laughs, and supported one another through the process. You did a fantastic job!

👉 Missed out on the fun? Keep an eye on our page for upcoming workshop dates and learning opportunities!

10/01/2026

Our Learn to Sew class wrapped up, and the energy in the room was absolutely incredible. Everyone walked in as a beginner or someone looking to knock the rust off, and walked out with a brand-new set of skills—and their very own handmade projects!

We kicked things off by getting comfortable with the sewing machines. Students mastered threading the machine, winding bobbins, and practicing straight lines and curves until they felt like pros.

Once the basics were down, it was time to cut fabric and bring projects to life. There is nothing quite like the proud smiles in the room when that final seam is locked and a finished project is held up for the first time! From building confidence with the machines to troubleshooting tension like absolute champs, everyone did a fantastic job.

Huge thanks to our host, Shelly, and the wonderful students for your patience, creativity, and supportive team spirit throughout the class. You're officially part of the sewing community now!

👉 Ready to stitch your own story? We have more beginner workshops and machine-sewing classes coming up soon. Check them out here: https://mapsedu.recdesk.com/Community/Program?category=7

09/21/2026

Would your family know how to help you or take over your finances in an emergency? The goal of this class is simple: if someone had to step in to pay your bills, make urgent health decisions, manage your estate, or close your accounts, they would know exactly what to do. This binder reduces stress and confusion for your loved ones during a difficult period.

Register now: https://mapsedu.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=341

09/15/2026

Unlock your creative potential with Stacy Literski! Discover the secrets to capturing stunning photos, mastering lighting, and unleashing your unique vision. This is your chance to learn from a renowned portrait and wedding photographer and transform your photography skills!



Sign up now and start capturing life's precious moments with confidence! 💕 Registration link: https://mapsedu.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=348

09/09/2026

Unleash your inner Norse artisan because seats for our exclusive Viking Knit Jewelry Workshop are vanishing fast!

This ancient, hypnotic wire-weaving technique creates stunning, flexible metallic ropes that look like they were pulled straight from a treasure hoard—and you are going to learn how to craft your own from scratch.

Don't wait until it's too late. We have strictly limited the workspace to ensure everyone gets personalized, step-by-step guidance, and spots are filling up by the minute. If you hesitate, you will miss the chance to master this timeless art form this season.

What you will create and master:
- The traditional single and double knit weaving stitches
- Proper wire tension and sizing down techniques
- Attaching end caps and clasps for a professional finish
- Crafting a finished, wearable copper or silver bracelet

Stop dreaming about making your own statement jewelry. Lock in your registration now before the class sells out!

Register now: https://mapsedu.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=310

09/08/2026

🍂 CALLING ALL COZY CRAFTERS! 🍁
Get ready to spice up your autumn decor with our Cozy Sweater Pumpkins workshop! This ultimate upcycling craft party teaches you how to turn old, beloved sweaters into charming, rustic pumpkins perfect for your home. 🧶

✨No skills are required to participate! Expert crafter Angie Frederick will guide you step-by-step through the entire process.

🎨 What You'll Do:
Snip & Stuff: Learn how to transform sweaters into plush, cute pumpkins.

Master the Craft: Learn a secret ridge-shaping trick to make your pumpkins look realistic.
Add the Finishing Touches: Top your creations with real wood stems, twine, and autumn leaves.

🎙️ Meet Your Instructor: Angie Frederick is an avid home interior designer and lifelong crafter who loves capturing cozy aesthetic vibes. She excels at bringing a trendy, boutique-style DIY look into everyday living spaces through accessible upcycling techniques.

✂️ What's provided for you: Fiber stuffing, real wood stems, decorative twine, and faux fall leaves.

What to bring: You are encouraged to bring an old, sentimental sweater from home! (Don't worry, spare sweaters will be available if you don't have one).

Date: October 1
Time: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Cost: $40.00
Location: Merrill High School - Art Room 150
Age Requirement: 10+ (with an accompanying paid adult)

Spaces are limited for this cozy autumn night out! Grab your tickets, tag your favorite crafting buddy, and RSVP "Going" today! 🎟️👇

https://mapsedu.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=316

06/02/2026

🌸
Our Spring catalog just wrapped up, and MAPS Community Education is already building a fantastic lineup for the Fall! 🍂 We have room for new ideas, and we want Merrill community members to fill them. Do you have a unique talent, hobby, or professional skill? Turn your passion into a paycheck! Get paid to share your skills with others. Whether it is crafting, cookies, candles, or crocheting—we want your fresh ideas for our Fall catalog.

⚠️ Proposal Deadline: June 20

Discover the MAPS Community Ed Instructor page, where dedicated educators and community members come together to inspire lifelong learning.

05/14/2026

🥳🥳🥳
We had such a blast with our needle felting class—it was a total hit! Honestly, the end results were just about as cute as they come. If you missed out this time, don't worry!

We’ve got some exciting new classes heading your way this fall.

Here is the scoop:
• The Catalog Drops: Late August!
• Where to Look: Keep an eye out for it in the Foto News.

Mark those calendars now so you don't miss it. We can't wait to see you in class!

05/14/2026

Last night we held our final craft classes of the spring catalog. We had our last Leather and Wood Earring Design workshop with. Great mom and daughter fun!What a night!

Watch for our Fall Catalog in August! We will have so many new and fun opportunities to learn something new!