September & October Classes in Arlington and Hyattsville
As we shift into autumn's rhythm, I'm looking forward to connecting with guests in a range of upcoming seasonal workshops. Whether you're looking to relax with fall paper crafts or learn letterpress printing techniques, I have a class for you.
Fall is a shifting season, a transition from the heat and activity of summer to the cold, hibernating energy of winter. It's a time between. For some it's filled with new moments - starting school - while for others it's a cooling down and settling in period. I love the gentle moments as the leaves change, and I can revisit a practice like journaling or gratitude.
Mindful Making Workshops at Open to Being Studio & Shop in Arlington, VA
At the Arlington Studio & Shop, I’m featuring two new Open to Being® Mindful Making workshops - invitations to slow down, express, and connect with kindred spirits through activities that complement your love for paper goods and stationery.
This fall's Mindful Making workshops are designed to support seasonal practices of reflection and gratitude. The mood is always casual and creative, and you'll leave refreshed and renewed with your own handmade creation. You'll even learn new skills and ideas that you can use for holiday gifting in the months ahead.
Recent students have shared: "It was a really fun, low-pressure way to be creative and experiment with new art materials" and "Nice cozy space and friendly environment! Fun for every level of creativity."
Mindful Making: Mini Notebook Workshop
September 25, 6:30-8:30 pm | $20
The mini notebook you make in this class will be completely one-of-a-kind. You can choose a unique letterpress printed cover and embellish it with a foil-printed word or your name. This hands-on bookmaking experience is perfect for journaling enthusiasts or anyone who appreciates handcrafted stationery.
Mindful Making: Gratitude Box Workshop
Thursday, October 30, 6:30-8:30 pm | $20
I've designed and letterpress-printed two unique papers specifically for making small boxes and filling them with gratitude throughout the month of November. You'll discover ways to make these boxes for gifts and other practices and purposes as well. This paper craft workshop combines mindfulness with practical skills for the holiday season.
Letterpress Classes at Pyramid Atlantic Art Center in Hyattsville, Maryland
At Pyramid Atlantic Art Center in Hyattsville, Maryland, I am teaching letterpress workshops for beginners as well as more advanced artists. These classes take advantage of the art center's two Vandercook proof presses, extensive type collection, and inspiring gallery spaces.
Letterpress Printed Poetry Workshop
Sunday, September 28, 10:30 am - 5 pm | $187
Drawing on my museum education professional background, I'll lead close looking and writing activities in the Helen C. Frederick Gallery. I love guiding people to see and be inspired by art! This workshop will focus on a few of the works featured in Women Artists of the DMV exhibition for writing several types of poems (even if you've never written one before). We'll work together to typeset a collectively written poem that can be printed on different backgrounds that express the poem's spirit.
This is a lovely option for writers with no letterpress experience or visual artists who work in other media and want to explore integrating printed text into their practice.
Experimental Letterpress Workshop Series
Sundays, October 5, 12, 19, and 26, 10:30 am - 2 pm
For those with letterpress experience, spend four October Sundays pushing creative boundaries. If you've tried letterpress and want to learn how to get more creative with ink, paper, and type - this workshop series is perfect for you.
I encourage exploration and experimentation in this workshop, and I'll work with you to personalize the experience so you can get the most out of it. This intermediate to advanced class is ideal for printmakers ready to develop their own artistic voice in letterpress.
Why Learn with Theresa Esterlund?
As an Arlington-based artist and former museum educator, I bring artistic expertise, deep understanding of how creative practices support wellbeing and connection, and strengths in creating meaningful and engaging experiences for all levels.
"I thought that I would have trouble being creative but now I am so delighted with how satisfying it was to create!" and "It was so relaxing and such a comfortable and inviting space to be in!" are just a few thoughts students have shared after recent Mindful Making workshops.
All classes are kept small to ensure personalized attention and meaningful connections with fellow participants. Whether we're working in my cozy Arlington studio space or at Pyramid Atlantic's professional printmaking facility, you'll work with high-quality materials and equipment while learning techniques you can continue exploring at home.
Ready to Register for Fall Classes?
Spaces fill quickly for these intimate creative workshops. Registration is now open for all Arlington Studio & Shop classes. Visit our Classes page for detailed information and to secure your spot.
Questions about which workshop is right for you? I'm happy to discuss what to expect or help you choose between our cozy Arlington studio sessions and the professional printmaking environment at Pyramid Atlantic Art Center. Email me at hello@opentobeing.com.
Don't miss these opportunities to embrace the energy of fall, mindfulness, and your own creative expression to boost your wellbeing for the holiday season and beyond. Join our community of makers celebrating the art of slow art, heartfelt connections, and creative self-expression. As students tell me, "It's a great way to relax and meet other crafty people" in a space where you can truly unwind and create.
Curious about my creative process behind the scenes? Follow Open to Being on Instagram for behind-the-scenes looks at workshop prep, student projects, and seasonal inspiration.
