a BEGINNER'S introduction to paper quilling

with nikki besser

saturday, july 18th

11 am - 2 pm

$60 for crossing arts members

$65 for crossing arts members

** UPDATE: This class has been postponed until October. New workshop date TBD **

In this introductory workshop, students are welcomed into the delicate and captivating world of paper quilling. Under the guidance of artist and instructor Nikki Besser, participants explore the foundational tools and techniques that bring this centuries‑old craft to life. The class focuses on essential skills such as rolling, folding, and curling paper strips, then arranging those elements into a thoughtfully designed entry‑level project that builds confidence and sparks creativity.

Each participant receives a beginner’s kit containing the core tools needed for quilling. These kits are theirs to keep, encouraging continued exploration and practice long after the session ends.

Nikki Besser is a self‑taught quilling artist with roughly eight years of dedicated practice. Her artistic journey has been shaped by consistent experimentation, curiosity, and a commitment to refining her craft. Through ongoing discovery of new techniques and possibilities, she has developed a personal style rooted in patience and play. Nikki has taught regularly throughout her years of practice, sharing her knowledge with learners of all ages and skill levels. Her teaching approach emphasizes encouragement, hands‑on learning, and the joy of watching simple materials transform into intricate works of art.

$60 for Crossing Arts Members

$65 for Non-Members

Ages 12+

intro to drawing hands

with local artist, molly mae

at the jessie f. hallett memorial library, crosby, mn

thursday, july 23rd

5 - 7 pm

free to the public

registration is required as space is limited

Join local artist Molly Mae at The Jessie F. Hallett Memorial Library for a welcoming, beginner‑friendly workshop focused on one of the trickiest subjects in art: drawing hands.

Even seasoned artists find hands challenging, but Molly will guide participants through approachable techniques that build confidence and skill. This two‑hour class includes all necessary materials, making it easy to simply show up, learn, and enjoy the creative process. Bring a friend, tap into your artistic side, and register for this fun, hands‑on workshop.

The program is free and open to the public, but space is limited and registration is required.

Ages 14+

intro to Charcoal and pastels

woods and water landscapes

at the pine river public library

monday, july 27th

4 pm - 6 pm

free to the public

registration required as space is limited

Immerse yourself in the textures, tones, and quiet magic of the natural world in this hands-on charcoal and pastel class with artist Lara Royer. Inspired by the theme “Woods and Water,” participants will explore expressive mark-making, layering techniques, and the interplay of light and shadow to capture the beauty of forests, shorelines, and flowing water.

All materials are provided, making this a welcoming experience for both beginners and seasoned artists. The class is free, but registration is required as space is limited.

Guided by Lara’s warm, encouraging teaching style, you’ll experiment, create, and leave with artwork that reflects your own connection to nature.

Ages 14+

At the Pine River Public Library

intro to drawing faces

with local artist, molly mae

at the brainerd public library

wednesday, august 12th

4 pm - 6 pm

free to the public

registration required as space is limited

Join local artist Molly Mae at the Brainerd Public Library for a relaxed, hands-on evening of drawing faces. Even experienced artists know that faces can be tricky, but Molly makes the fundamentals feel approachable with her helpful tips, clear guidance, and plenty of encouragement.

This free, two‑hour workshop includes all materials, so all you need to bring is your curiosity. Grab a friend, sign up, and enjoy learning something new together.

This workshop is free to the public, but registration is required as space is limited.

Ages 14+

Carvin critters

linoleum carving and printing

with breanna rhodes

saturday, august 22nd

11 am - 3 pm

$55 for crossing arts members

$60 for non-members

A lively, hands‑on printmaking adventure, this class invites participants to carve their own 5x7 linoleum block and create bold, expressive prints on 8x10 paper. Students learn the essentials of lino carving and relief printing, exploring tools, techniques, and inky textures. Preselected animal images are available so each person can choose a creature that speaks to them, then transform it into a carved block ready for printing. Everyone leaves with their finished block, a small stack of prints, and inky hands that prove they made something real. All materials are included.

The class is taught by Brea Rhodes, a St. Cloud–based artist who earned her BFA in Studio Art with a minor in Art History from Saint Cloud State University in 2023. Originally from the BLA, she now focuses her creative energy on painting and printmaking. Her experience includes two internships at Bruno Press in St. Joseph, MN, and several years of independent teaching, where she brings enthusiasm, humor, and a love of handmade art to every session.

Art can be messy! Please wear clothing you don't mind getting ink on.

Ages 8+ (must be accompanied by an adult)
Crossing Arts Members: $55
Non-members: $60

Intro to drawing hands

with molly mae

at the pine river public library

monday, august 31st

4 pm - 6 pm

free to the public

registration is required

Join local artist Molly Mae at The Pine River Library, for a welcoming, beginner‑friendly workshop focused on one of the trickiest subjects in art: drawing hands.

Even seasoned artists find hands challenging, but Molly will guide participants through approachable techniques that build confidence and skill. This two‑hour class includes all necessary materials, making it easy to simply show up, learn, and enjoy the creative process. Bring a friend, tap into your artistic side, and register for this fun, hands‑on workshop.

The program is free and open to the public, but space is limited and registration is required.

Ages 14+

needle-felted pumpkin workshop

inspired by sarafina fiber arts

with nancy scott

saturday, october 10th

11 am - 1 pm

$53 for crossing arts members

$58 for non-members

Celebrate the cozy spirit of fall with a hands-on needle‑felting pumpkin workshop. In this class, you’ll learn how to sculpt soft wool into charming seasonal décor—whether you prefer classic pumpkins or playful jack‑o’-lantern faces. Each kit provides enough materials to create 3 to 6 pumpkins, so you can experiment with shapes, sizes, and styles. You’ll work with two core wool colors for your pumpkin bases, along with a selection of contrasting accent colors to add stems, swirls, leaves, or expressive faces. This class is beginner‑friendly, relaxing, and a perfect way to welcome autumn with something handmade and heartfelt.

Inspired by Sarafina Fiber Arts Crossing Arts Members: $53 Non‑Members: $58 Ages: 12+

The Crossing Arts’ workshops are funded, in part, by the voters of Minnesota through grants from Five Wings Arts Council and the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.