WNC Hands On Workshops

A hands-on workshop series exploring the ecology, history, and craftsmanship of Western North Carolina. WNC is more than just a location; it’s a living tradition. In an increasingly digital world, we invite you to put down the screen and pick up the craft. Our workshops aren’t just classes; they are a bridge to the Appalachian spirit, led by local experts who keep our regional stories alive.

Upcoming Workshops:

In this fun crochet class we will up-cycle our knitted clothing with playful, easy crochet stitches to add color and zest along edges, while I’m sprinkling in some history of crochet. You will be introduced to: slip-stitch which adds a decorative edge along projects, and picot-stitch that creates a romantic wavy chain loop effect, as well as chain-stitch which can be shaped into a decorative heart or spiral to be sewn onto your project. 

Required: Bring several knitted clothing items to be spruced up during class (could be store-bought and/or handmade knit garments: think cardigan, blouse, sweater, skirt, tops, bag, hand warmers, beanie, scarf or even knitted fabric swatches) these are gonna be your “material” to work on during class. I will also provide knitted scraps to practice on. 

This crochet class is suitable for all skill levels (newbies as well as seasoned) crocheters. 

Materials fee paid directly to teacher on day of class: $15 (to cover the use of various yarns used during class, knitted swatches, crochet hooks, tread, scissors and sewing needles). ***unless you bring your own yarns and hooks.***

“There’s nothing quite like springtime at Round Mountain Creamery.”

Join the Swannanoa Valley Museum for a special behind-the-scenes farm tour during one of the most beautiful times of year in the mountains. Spring brings new life to the farm—complete with brand new baby goats—and offers a perfect opportunity to explore the creamery at its seasonal peak. During this guided experience, you’ll meet the goats, tour the farm, learn about the milking and cheesemaking process, and sample delicious farmstead cheeses. Discover the craftsmanship, care, and flavor that define this beloved local creamery while enjoying the sights and tastes of spring in Western North Carolina. Space is limited, and advance registration is required.

Swannanoa Valley Wild serves the Swannanoa Valley region in protecting, conserving, and restoring wildlife & habitat. We offer our local community opportunities to restore habitat, connect with nature, and learn about important wildlife and habitat topics.

Join Luke Bennett of Swannanoa Valley Wild and learn about the current ongoing restoration of Fox Creek Park (Part of Historic Grovemont and the site of Lake June in Swannanoa, NC.) Learn about techniques used to remove kudzu and bring the area back to its natural habitation.

Western North Carolina has a rich history of living off the land. Join the Museum and Greg Carter (aka “The FunGuy”) for a morning dedicated to the ancient and modern art of mushroom cultivation. This isn’t just a walk; it’s an educational deep-dive into how our local ecosystem provides for us.

• See the Lifecycle: Walk the farm and witness the transition from raw logs to the fruiting of Shiitake, Lion’s Mane, and Reishi.
• The Art of the Hunt: Learn the history of foraging in Western North Carolina and how Greg became one of the region’s few state-certified wild-edible providers.

Learn the art of Bread making from a master. Martine van Velden.
Martine was born in the Netherlands, where bread is part of daily life and craft still matters. She
trained traditionally with bakers across Europe, learning the rhythms, patience, and
discipline that old-world bread demands.
Today, Martine runs Stonewall Bakery, where European tradition meets Appalachian grain.
Every loaf is shaped by patience, practice, and respect for the process. Bread, like
farming, is never perfect—and that’s the beauty of it. It asks for time, care, and love.
And if you don’t love it, you probably shouldn’t bake it.