Fall into Creativity

Decorative Arts Workshops at the Nantucket Historical Association

As the golden light of September settles over Nantucket, it’s the perfect time to explore new skills, revive old projects, and immerse yourself in the island’s rich artistic traditions. The Nantucket Historical Association invites you to their Fall Decorative Arts Workshops at the historic 1800 House, where creativity and craftsmanship come together.

From basket weaving to blacksmithing, eco-dyeing to needlepoint, these hands-on sessions celebrate both traditional techniques and fresh, contemporary approaches. Whether you’re a seasoned artisan or a curious beginner, there’s something for everyone this fall.

September Workshops at a Glance

Drop-in Craft Gam – Wednesdays, 2–4:30 PM (FREE)
Bring your unfinished chair, basket, beading, or stitching project and enjoy an open session alongside fellow makers.

8″ Sailors’ Valentines – September 2–4 (3-Day Workshop)
Learn the time-honored craft of Sailors’ Valentines using traditional patterns and a wide selection of natural materials.

Mindful Mending: Repair, Renew, Revive – September 2–3 (2-Day Workshop)
Discover Sashiko, Kantha, and Boro stitching techniques to give textiles new life through thoughtful mending.

Eco-Dyeing on Fabric and Paper – September 9–10 (2-Day Workshop)
Explore eco-printing as autumn leaves release their rich tannins, perfect for creating botanical patterns.

Blacksmithing 101: Forging a Railroad Spike Knife – September 9 & September 23 (One-Day Workshops)
Transform a railroad spike into a handcrafted knife while learning the fundamentals of blacksmithing.

Needlepoint Finishing: Round, Square & Irregular Ornaments – September 11 (One-Day Workshop)
Work with master finisher Meg Fielder to turn your stitched canvases into stunning, professional-quality ornaments.

Hand Hewn Bowl – September 12–14 (3-Day Workshop)
Carve a shallow wooden bowl using traditional hand tools for a piece that blends function with rustic beauty.

Woven Wine Cooler – September 15–18 (4-Day Workshop)
Craft a Nantucket-style basket that doubles as a wine cooler or flower holder—a perfect mix of form and function.

Chair Caning Clinic – September 16–18 (3-Day Workshop)
Learn the timeless art of hand-caning to restore your favorite chair.

Historic Ceramic Transferware: Tea Set – September 19 (One-Day Workshop)
Create a charming tea set complete with teapot and mugs, decorated in historic transferware style.

Colored Woven Wine Coaster Basket – September 22–24 (4-Day Workshop)
Make a colorful, handwoven wine coaster basket using Anne of Shipyard Weaving’s custom-dyed reeds.

Colored Woven Cuff Bracelet – September 23 (Evening Workshop, 5–7 PM)
Design a vibrant woven cuff bracelet with modern acrylic finishes.

Paper Marbling – September 30 (One-Day Workshop)
Dive into the 200-year-old art of marbling to create mesmerizing, one-of-a-kind paper designs.

Celebrate Craft and Community

Whether you’re weaving your first basket or perfecting a centuries-old technique, the NHA’s workshops provide a welcoming space to learn, create, and connect.

Workshops take place at the NHA’s 1800 House—a historic setting that feels like stepping back in time, yet alive with creativity.

To explore details and register for workshops, visit the Nantucket Historical Association.