Learn about the world of himmeli, the traditional Finnish winter mobiles made of natural straw threaded into beautiful, hanging geometric artworks that honor the harvest and the promise of good fortune for the coming year. Decorated and bestowed with different materials and meaning across much of north and northeastern Europe, they mark the end of the harvest season, and act as bright reminders of the light and abundance waiting on the other side of the dark winter months.

In this workshop you’ll learn about the materials and how to construct the basic shapes using wheat straw and thread. A blunt rounded needle is used to guide thread through the hollow center of straw stalks (no piercing or sewing). We’ll explore examples and techniques from other cultures as well, such as the colorful Polish pająki and experiment with non-traditional materials such as paper straws and recycled materials.

Once you know how to construct the basics, it is just a matter of connecting all the pieces together to create a mobile as large or as small as you’d like. It’s the perfect craft for both solitary focus and group get-togethers. The largest himmeli in the world to date, measuring 6 cubic metres, was built in Estonia by more than 1000 volunteers.

Students will build at least one medium sized himmeli mobile, and the know-how and resources to continue creating independently. Once you start, it’s hard to stop!

No prior experience required.
Suitable for ages 16+. Under 16 are welcome to register if accompanied by an adult.

Instructor: Kathy MacPherson

REGISTER (Link coming soon)

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