Rock Island Today

Kids and teens can explore their creative side with several workshops hosted by University of Illinois Extension this June in Yorkville.

• Needle Felting Basics – Friday, June 10 – 9 a.m. to noon: Participants will learn the basics of needle felting, including how to use basic tools, forms, and bases. They will create a shape with a cookie cutter, and then will decorate wool balls and learn about detailing, “coloring,” and finishing their felting project. Cost is $15, supplies included.
• Paper Flowers – Friday, June 10 – 1 to 3 p.m.: Participants will create paper peonies or wild rose flowers in different colors and sizes. They can learn with a cutting machine or by hand. Cost is $10.
• Clay Coil Pot – Monday, June 13 – 9 a.m. to noon: Participants will learn basic clay hand-building techniques, as well as learn to build a coil pot out of air-dry clay. Youth will get to know design skills and different types of clay while creating a one-of-a-kind coil pot pencil holder. Cost is $15.
• Self-care Creations – Monday, June 13 – 1 to 3 p.m.: Create a glitter stress toy, build and decorate a calming jar, or make some homemade bath fizzes for some self-care. The participants also will work on a vision board for identifying stress and distinguishing individual support systems. Cost is $10.
• Photography 1 – Tuesday, June 14 – 1 to 2:30 p.m.: Participants will learn photography basics and learn how to take a great photo. Cost is $5.
• Beginner Sewing Series – June 21, 23, 27 and 29 – 10 a.m. to noon: During this four-part workshop, participants will learn how to use their own sewing machine and practice threading their machine, making a bobbin, sewing consistent seams, and sewing a straight seam. Participants also will learn other skills as they make small practice projects, like a tissue box or book cover and a pillowcase. Cost is $20 for four-part workshop.

Each of these creative classes will be taught by 4-H teen teachers with programs supervised by 4-H staff. They are designed for ages 8 to 18. Youth do not need to be 4-H members to participate, but class registration is required and space may be limited. Learn more about each at go.illinois.edu/KendallCounty4H.

Still time to join us for spring programs

DuPage, Kane, and Kendall County 4-H host a variety of programs each season. This spring, there’s still time to register for the:

• Exploring Nature Photography Club, a short-term special interest group that starts May 21 in Plano
• Goat Milk Soap workshop on May 26 in St. Charles
• All About Trees Club, a short-term special interest group that starts June 6 in Lisle

Learn more about these spring opportunities at go.illinois.edu/info4Hdkk. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, contact 4-H Program Coordinator Kim Eisnaugle at keisnaug@illinois.edu or 630-553-5823. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access needs.