Thrifty Connections

Craft a Keepsake: The Autumn Bookfold Bouquet
2025-10-18 13:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | Thrifty Connections, 158 Lafayette Street, Schenectady, NY, 12305, United States
Craft a Keepsake: The Autumn Bookfold Bouquet $30.00
Saturday October 18th 1:00pm-3:00pm

Calling all book lovers & creative crafters! Transform a beloved book into a stunning floral centerpiece. In this unique workshop, you’ll learn the art of book folding to create a beautiful, vase-like sculpture, then craft a complementary faux floral arrangement to display inside. By the end of the class, you’ll not only have a beautiful, finished piece to take home, but also the skills to continue exploring this creative and meditative craft.
All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.

Book Page Pumpkin: A Mindful Crafting Escape
2025-10-18 10:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York)
Book Page Pumpkin: A Mindful Crafting Escape $20.00 CONTEMPLATIVE
Saturday October 18th 10:00am-11:30am

Transform an old book into a charming fall decoration. In this contemplative class, you’ll learn the satisfying art of book folding to create your own unique pumpkin centerpiece. Come unwind and discover the joy of mindful crafting as you make your own unique autumnal accent.

All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.
* Contemplative Classes are intentionally crafted with the ambience in mind.
CONTEMPLATIVE CLASSES= Quiet & Meditative class environment. Some classes may either begin or end with a guided meditation or a short guided breath work exercise and will be an opportunity to quiet the mind & body and allow the creative process to reconnect you to yourself. A great opportunity to be amongst others while remaining within yourself. Connecting in quietness!

Witchy Bottles & Poison Jars: A Halloween Upcycling Workshop
2025-10-17 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
Witchy Bottles & Poison Jars: A Halloween Upcycling Workshop $25.00
Transform old jars and bottles into spooky showstoppers — just in time for the Nightmare Market!
Friday October 17th 6:00pm-8:00pm
Join us the night before the city’s Nightmare Market for an evening of eerie creativity! In this hands-on upcycling workshop, we’ll turn old bottles and jars into poison vials, spell containers, and witchy arrangements perfect for your Halloween décor.
Using a curated mix of vintage-style tags, moss, bones, twigs, charms, and other delightfully dark embellishments, you’ll create your own spooky bottles that look straight out of a haunted apothecary.
We’ll provide:

An assortment of upcycled bottles and jars
Halloween-themed ephemera, moss, bones, twine, glitter, charms, and more. Feel free to bring other items you’d like to include or share.
Tools, glue, and spooky inspiration

What you’ll make:

2–3 finished bottles or jars

Whether you’re decorating for Halloween, stocking a spooky shelf, or just love a little bit of witchy weirdness, this is the perfect way to kick off Nightmare Market weekend.
Costumes or witch hats encouraged — it’s going to be a hauntingly good time!

Documentary & A Discussion: The Quilters
2025-10-17 13:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York)
Documentary & A Discussion: The Quilters $15.00
Friday October 17th 1:00pm-3:00pm

When you picture a group of people getting together to quilt in community, who do you typically envision? The Quilters is a short documentary about a restorative justice program at the South Central Correctional Facility. Learn about the struggles and triumphs of this unique group of incarcerated men as they come together to create quilts for foster children.

The documentary is 30 minutes long. The group will engage in a discussion about rehabilitation, the power of purpose & giving. We will explore our similarities and connection to the experience of incarcerated men as they show us through their story about the resilience of the human spirit.

Popcorn & Natural Infused Waters Provided

Ghost Banner Workshop
2025-10-16 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York)
Ghost Banner Workshop $15.00Create a spooky-cute ghost banner using vintage sheet music or scrap fabric!
Thursday October 16th 6:00pm-7:30pm
Get into the spooky spirit with this hands-on workshop! In this class, you’ll create a charming ghost garland perfect for Halloween decor. You’ll get to choose your own creative path:

Option 1: Transform vintage sheet music into a whimsical paper ghost garland.

Option 2: Upcycle scrap fabric into a soft, textured ghost garland.

We’ll provide all the materials, tools, and step-by-step guidance you need. Whether you’re a paper crafter or a fabric lover, you’ll leave with a handmade piece that adds a touch of playful haunt to your home.

Altered Deck Contemplative
2025-10-16 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Altered Deck Contemplative $10.00
Thursday October 16th 12:00-1:00pm
Take your lunch break with us to unwind, slow down, and tap into your creative intuition in this peaceful workshop.Transform ordinary playing cards into beautiful, personal works of art—each one a small canvas for self-expression, reflection, and calm. Using simple mixed media techniques—such as collage, paint, and stamping—you’ll alter cards into a soothing series of mini art pieces. No artistic experience needed—just bring a curious heart and a willingness to relax and create. This will be a repeating bi-weekly class so you have the option to build your deck throughout the year. You can expect to complete at least 2 cards per class.

All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and are suitable for individuals ages 16+
Contemplative classes are intentionally crafted with the ambience in mind. Some classes may either begin or end with a guided meditation or a short guided breath work exercise and will be an opportunity to quiet the mind & body and allow the creative process to reconnect you to yourself. A great opportunity to be amongst others while remaining within yourself. Connecting in quietness!

Beautiful Bugs: Assemblage Art from Broken Treasures
2025-10-15 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York)
Beautiful Bugs: Assemblage Art from Broken Treasures $25.00
Create whimsical insects from forgotten bits and shiny pieces!
Wednesday October 15th 10:00-12:00
In this imaginative mixed-media workshop, we’ll bring new life to broken jewelry, buttons, wire, and other found objects — by transforming them into one-of-a-kind bug sculptures!
No experience needed — just a love for tiny details and curious creations!
We’ll provide:

A wide variety of broken jewelry, beads, wire, and found materials
Glue, tools, and backing boards
Sample bugs for inspiration

Leave with a little insect friend that’s part nature, part treasure, and all art.

Create Your Own Flower Pot Pumpkin
2025-10-11 13:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York)
Create Your Own Flower Pot Pumpkin $25.00
Saturday, October 11th 1:00pm-2:30pm

Embrace the season with a touch of rustic charm! Join us for a fun-filled afternoon where we’ll transform ordinary pumpkins into extraordinary planters. Using farm-fresh pumpkins and beautiful, locally grown flowers, you’ll create a unique and festive centerpiece that’s bursting with autumnal beauty. We’ll get playful with natural elements, digging into soil and getting to know our plants as we carve and craft. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season with a splash of creativity and a whole lot of natural fun!

Button Birds- Crow
2025-10-11 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York)
Saturday October 11th
10:00am -12:00pm
$30.00
Join us for a relaxing, nature-inspired crafting session where we’ll create charming button art birds using upcycled materials, with a special focus on the Crow.
Crows have long been symbols of mystery, magic, and intelligence — and in this hands-on workshop, we’re celebrating all things spooky and smart! You’ll create your own crow-themed button art using black buttons and beads.
Did you know crows remember faces… for years?
Some cultures believe they’re messengers between worlds…
And yes — they’ve even been known to bring humans gifts!

Crows are curious and social, often forming tight-knit groups and building long-lasting connections — both with each other and with humans. They remind us to stay curious, stay observant, and find meaning in the everyday.
In this class, you’ll use a mix of buttons and other salvaged treasures to form a delightful bird silhouette on a sturdy backing. Each piece is uniquely your own—no two birds will look the same, and that’s part of the beauty. We’ll guide you through basic composition and layering, but the real emphasis is on slowing down, enjoying the process, and making space for calm creativity.
Note: Because we work with salvaged materials, final projects may differ slightly from calendar examples, adding to the uniqueness of each creation.

An Evening with Sourdough
2025-10-10 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
An Evening with Sourdough $40.00
Friday, October 10th 6:00pm-8:00pm
Join us for a relaxed, hands-on class where we’ll explore the magic of sourdough together.
We’ll start by demystifying the myths and rules that often make sourdough feel intimidating, and instead discover how this ancient craft can be simple, forgiving, and full of joy.
What you’ll take home:

Your own live sourdough starter to keep alive and bake with
A loaf ready to pop into your oven at home
A reference pamphlet with a tried-and-true bread recipe and key tips
Access to a private Facebook group to build community with classmates, share successes, and troubleshoot together long after the session ends
The confidence to work with dough in a way that feels approachable and easy

This is an evening of learning, sharing, and connecting—like gathering around the kitchen table. Come curious, leave inspired (and with bread on the way).
Guest Instructor: Tiffany Palmer is the owner of Cocoa & Sage a home bakery that provides Organic Sourdough & hand crafted treats.‘Hi, Im Tiffany, a local baker passionate about crafting sourdough loaves with love and patience. When I’m not tending to my starter, I’m a proud mom of three little taste-testers.’
https://www.hotplate.com/cocoaandsage

Junk Journaling Contemplative
2025-10-10 13:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York)
Junk Journaling Contemplative
Friday October 10th 1:00-2:30pm
$15.00
Discover the joy of junk journaling—a creative, low-pressure way to turn scraps, memories, and everyday materials into something beautiful and meaningful. Using old book pages, fabric bits, envelopes, tags, found paper, and other donated or salvaged materials, you’ll build a one-of-a-kind journal that’s entirely your own.
You are invited to attend as many of these bi-weekly class as you’d like to build a complete journal through out the year or as few as you’d like to learn the basics and complete on your own time. Come as you are—no experience necessary. Each session will offer new prompts, techniques, and inspiration, but you’re always welcome to work at your own pace.
All materials provided, or bring your own stash to personalize your pages.

All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and are suitable for individuals ages 16+
Contemplative classes are intentionally crafted with the ambience in mind. Some classes may either begin or end with a guided meditation or a short guided breath work exercise and will be an opportunity to quiet the mind & body and allow the creative process to reconnect you to yourself. A great opportunity to be amongst others while remaining within yourself. Connecting in quietness!

Moving Toward A Plant Based Diet
2025-10-09 12:30 - 14:00 (America/New_York)
Moving Toward A Plant Based Diet $5.00
October 9th 12:30-2:00
A good diet is one of the pillars of good health. An exceptional diet will help cure disease, lengthen life span and offers increased energy to live well. This talk and taste session will give you a place to start and a direction in which to go. The presenter, Nancy White, has been interested in nutrition and health for over fifty years. She will give you practical ways to improve your diet, share some simple recipes and discuss recent research. Guests will have the opportunity to sample freshly prepared plant based dishes.
Guest Instructor: Nancy White has lived and gardened and taught in the Schenectady area since 1973. Her home is the Healing Garden, a United Plant Savers Botanical Sanctuary in Rexford. Herbs, flowers, vegetables and fruits have been her companions all her life.

Aloe Vera — More Than a Pretty Face
2025-10-08 13:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York)
Aloe Vera — More Than a Pretty Face $5.00
October 8th 1:00pm-2:30pm

Aloe vera is a common house plant, but few people use and appreciate its many benefits. Beyond use for burns and cosmetics, aloe vera has many gifts to share. You will go home from this session with both information and a plant. The great grandparents of your new aloe were brought to NY from a FL garden in the 1970’s. Clearly, aloe loves to multiply.
Guest Instructor: Nancy White has lived and gardened and taught in the Schenectady area since 1973. Her home is the Healing Garden, a United Plant Savers Botanical Sanctuary in Rexford. Herbs, flowers, vegetables and fruits have been her companions all her life.

"Nest & Notes" – Upcycled Bird Nest Frame Art Workshop
2025-10-04 13:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York)
“Nest & Notes” – Upcycled Bird Nest Frame Art Workshop $35.00
Create Nature-Inspired Art from Reclaimed Material
Saturday October 4th
1:00-3:00
In this hands-on upcycle workshop, we’ll transform old picture frames into beautiful, nature-inspired wall art using vintage sheet music, moss, branches, and tiny birds. You’ll collage background layers with music paper, then build a cozy 3D bird nest scene using natural and repurposed elements.
This project is perfect for anyone who loves crafting, nature, or giving new life to old objects. You’ll leave with a unique, whimsical piece ready to hang.
What we’ll provide:

Old frames (or bring your own!)
Vintage music paper, moss, twigs, glue, and decorative birds. Please also feel free to bring any additions you may like to add or share.
Tools and materials for assembly
Guidance and inspiration

Come ready to get a little messy, and create something meaningful from the forgotten and found.
All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.

Intuitive Painting with Ubu
2025-10-04 10:00 - 11:45 (America/New_York)
Intuitive Painting $35.00 CONTEMPLATIVE
Saturday October 4th 10:00am-11:45am

Flow & create with your inner being!
Give yourself the permission to “Just BE!”
This painting session is about providing space for our inner being to explore & express onto a canvas. In a calm setting where our intuition leads the creativity.
During this session we will paint without the voice of our inner critic.
Blocking out the noise as we create what feels right to us.

Guest Instructor: Ubu is a nickname given to me by my father. I happily share this name with others because the spelling is a great reminder. Reminding us of our authenticity & our essence.
My hope is to spark this reminder in others through painting. To spark Self liberation, self understanding and self connection. – Ubu

All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.
* Contemplative Classes are intentionally crafted with the ambience in mind.
CONTEMPLATIVE CLASSES= Quiet & Meditative class environment. Some classes may either begin or end with a guided meditation or a short guided breath work exercise and will be an opportunity to quiet the mind & body and allow the creative process to reconnect you to yourself. A great opportunity to be amongst others while remaining within yourself. Connecting in quietness!

Upcycled Paper Jewelry with Mary Frances
2025-10-03 14:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York)
Upcycled Paper Jewelry $30.00
Friday October 3rd 2:00pm-4:00pm

Make your own personalized earrings, necklace or pin with a variety of papers including vintage books, magazines, maps, origami papers, rice papers, gold leaf, sari material and so much more. All supplies are provided but if you want to incorporate a special memento into your work, feel free. The base is a very lightweight wood in many different sizes and shapes to give you the most choice. Findings are also provided.

Guest Instructor: Mary Frances is a third generation Schenectady native who has taught many classes in watercolor and her own brand of upcycled paper jewelry. Her passion for thrifting and recycling drew her to create and teach this style of art. She has taught many classes in the 518 area over the past 20 years and currently teaches watercolor at Mohawk Valley Art Shoppe. Her website is Maryfrancesmillet.com.

Getting Grateful with Deb Hazard
2025-10-02 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
Getting Grateful with Deb Hazard $15.00
A Groovy Crafting Experience That’ll Make Your Soul Sparkle!
Thursday October 2nd
6:00 PM- 8:00 PM
Get ready to tune in, craft out, and let your creativity flow in this far-out, hands-on workshop with the fabulous Deb Hazard!
In “Getting Grateful,” we’re diving deep into the vibes of the Grateful Dead and the psychedelic ‘60s to create one-of-a-kind art pieces that are as unique as your own cosmic journey. You’ll be provided with a pre-melted and shaped vinyl record canvas—a funky foundation ready to be transformed into something magical.
With Deb as your guide, you’ll explore:
Decoupage techniques using vibrant Grateful Dead and retro-inspired designs
Painting and embellishing with bold colors and trippy patterns
A dash (or a downpour) of glitter to make your piece truly shine
Whether you’re a Deadhead, a craft-lover, or just here for the good vibes, this is your chance to get creative, connect with kindred spirits, and walk away with a dazzling piece of peace, love, and rock & roll.
All materials provided. No experience necessary—just bring your inner flower child.

A Relaxing Altered Deck of Cards Experience Contemplative
2025-10-02 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Thursday October 2nd
12:00pm-1:00pm
$10.00
Take your lunch break with us to unwind, slow down, and tap into your creative intuition in this peaceful workshop.Transform ordinary playing cards into beautiful, personal works of art—each one a small canvas for self-expression, reflection, and calm. Using simple mixed media techniques—such as collage, paint, and stamping—you’ll alter cards into a soothing series of mini art pieces. No artistic experience needed—just bring a curious heart and a willingness to relax and create. This will be a repeating bi-weekly class so you have the option to build your deck throughout the year. You can expect to complete at least 2 cards per class.

All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and are suitable for individuals ages 16+
Contemplative classes are intentionally crafted with the ambience in mind. Some classes may either begin or end with a guided meditation or a short guided breath work exercise and will be an opportunity to quiet the mind & body and allow the creative process to reconnect you to yourself. A great opportunity to be amongst others while remaining within yourself. Connecting in quietness!

Book Page Pumpkin: A Mindful Crafting Escape
2025-10-01 10:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York)
Book Page Pumpkin: A Mindful Crafting Escape $20.00 CONTEMPLATIVE
Wednesday October 1st 10:00am-11:30am

Transform an old book into a charming fall decoration. In this contemplative class, you’ll learn the satisfying art of book folding to create your own unique pumpkin centerpiece. Come unwind and discover the joy of mindful crafting as you make your own unique autumnal accent.

All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.
* Contemplative Classes are intentionally crafted with the ambience in mind.
CONTEMPLATIVE CLASSES= Quiet & Meditative class environment. Some classes may either begin or end with a guided meditation or a short guided breath work exercise and will be an opportunity to quiet the mind & body and allow the creative process to reconnect you to yourself. A great opportunity to be amongst others while remaining within yourself. Connecting in quietness!

Meditative Stitching- Fall Colors Heart Garland Contemplative
2025-09-26 13:00 - 15:00 UTC
Friday September 26 , 2025
1:00pm-3:00pm
$20.00
Slow down and settle into the cozy rhythm of the season with our Fall Meditative Stitching Heart Garland class—an invitation to create from the heart, with your hands.
In this calming, fall-inspired workshop, we’ll craft a garland made of heart-shaped pieces using upcycled fabric. Each heart is a small act of mindfulness—stitched with intention, reflecting the warmth and beauty of autumn.
We’ll explore a meditative stitching technique, using simple, repetitive hand-sewing to slow the mind and engage the senses. There’s no rush and no pressure—just the quiet rhythm of needle and thread, the texture of repurposed materials, and the joy of creating in a supportive space.
Guests can expect to complete at least 5 hearts during the session, or bring home enough materials to finish 5 at their own pace. When strung together, your hearts become a meaningful garland—perfect for home decor, seasonal gifting, or simply as a reminder to breathe and be present.

All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and are suitable for individuals ages 16+
Contemplative classes are intentionally crafted with the ambience in mind. Some classes may either begin or end with a guided meditation or a short guided breath work exercise and will be an opportunity to quiet the mind & body and allow the creative process to reconnect you to yourself. A great opportunity to be amongst others while remaining within yourself. Connecting in quietness!

Craft Your Wish: Vintage Dandelion Pendant & Wish Card CONTEMPLATIVE
2025-09-25 18:00 - 20:00 UTC
Thursday September 25, 2025
6:00pm-8:00pm
$30.00
Escape the stress of a long week and find your creative flow in this unique and relaxing workshop. We’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of creating a beautiful vintage-style pendant featuring a delicate dandelion. As a special touch, you’ll also design a personalized mixed-media wish card to accompany your jewelry.
This class is a wonderful blend of jewelry making and mindful crafting. It’s the perfect opportunity to unwind, connect with your creative side while making a wish and a piece of jewelry that reminds you of it.
* Contemplative Classes are intentionally crafted with the ambience in mind.
CONTEMPLATIVE CLASSES= Quiet & Meditative class environment. Some classes may either begin or end with a guided meditation or a short guided breath work exercise and will be an opportunity to quiet the mind & body and allow the creative process to reconnect you to yourself. A great opportunity to be amongst others while remaining within yourself. Connecting in quietness!

Junk Journaling Contemplative
2025-09-25 14:00 - 15:30 UTC
Thursday September 25, 2025
2:00pm-3:30pm
$15.00
Discover the joy of junk journaling—a creative, low-pressure way to turn scraps, memories, and everyday materials into something beautiful and meaningful. Using old book pages, fabric bits, envelopes, tags, found paper, and other donated or salvaged materials, you’ll build a one-of-a-kind journal that’s entirely your own.
You are invited to attend as many of these bi-weekly class as you’d like to build a complete journal through out the year or as few as you’d like to learn the basics and complete on your own time. Come as you are—no experience necessary. Each session will offer new prompts, techniques, and inspiration, but you’re always welcome to work at your own pace.
All materials provided, or bring your own stash to personalize your pages.

All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and are suitable for individuals ages 16+
Contemplative classes are intentionally crafted with the ambience in mind. Some classes may either begin or end with a guided meditation or a short guided breath work exercise and will be an opportunity to quiet the mind & body and allow the creative process to reconnect you to yourself. A great opportunity to be amongst others while remaining within yourself. Connecting in quietness!

Find Your Inner Calm: The Art of Paper Flowers CONTEMPLATIVE
2025-09-25 12:00 - 13:00 UTC
Thursday September 25, 2025
12:00pm-1:00pm
$10.00
Join us for a quiet and mindful workshop where you’ll transform the pages of a forgotten book into a beautiful, lasting paper flower. Step by step, you’ll be guided through the delicate process of cutting, shaping, and assembling your flower. The careful, repetitive motions are designed to be a meditative and relaxing experience.
This workshop is a perfect blend of creativity and calm. You’ll leave not only with a unique, handmade floral masterpiece but also feeling renewed and inspired. No prior experience is necessary. All tools and recycled book pages are provided.
All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.
* Contemplative Classes are intentionally crafted with the ambience in mind.
CONTEMPLATIVE CLASSES= Quiet & Meditative class environment. Some classes may either begin or end with a guided meditation or a short guided breath work exercise and will be an opportunity to quiet the mind & body and allow the creative process to reconnect you to yourself. A great opportunity to be amongst others while remaining within yourself. Connecting in quietness!

Create Your Own Moss Art
2025-09-20 13:00 - 15:00 UTC
Saturday September 20. 2025
1:00-3:00pm
$50.00
Bring a touch of nature indoors with a custom-crafted piece of moss art! This fun and relaxing workshop will guide you step-by-step through the process of designing and creating your own framed masterpiece. You’ll learn how to work with different types of preserved moss, dried botanicals, and other natural elements to build a unique, three-dimensional piece of art. The best part? Your creation is completely maintenance-free—no watering or sunlight required. You’ll leave with a finished, ready-to-hang piece that brings a sense of calm and beauty to any space.
All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.

Button Birds- Tufted Titmouse
2025-09-19 18:00 - 20:00 UTC
Friday September 19, 2025
6:00pm-8:00pm
$35.00
Join us for a relaxing, nature-inspired crafting session where we’ll create charming button art birds using upcycled materials, with a special focus on the Tufted Titmouse—a small songbird known for its gentle spirit and curious nature.
In this class, you’ll use a mix of buttons and other salvaged treasures to form a delightful bird silhouette on a sturdy backing. Each piece is uniquely your own—no two birds will look the same, and that’s part of the beauty. We’ll guide you through basic composition and layering, but the real emphasis is on slowing down, enjoying the process, and making space for calm creativity.
As we craft, we’ll reflect on the symbolism of the Tufted Titmouse, a bird often associated with curiosity, quiet confidence, and presence. With its bright eyes and signature crest, the titmouse reminds us to stay open to joy in everyday moments and to sing our own song—no matter how small.
Note: Because we work with salvaged materials, final projects may differ slightly from calendar examples, adding to the uniqueness of each creation.

Love Packs: Community Service Project
2025-09-19 13:00 - 14:30 UTC
Friday, September 19, 2025
1:00pm-2:30pm
FREE – Simply bring something to contribute to the groups love packs.
Have you ever found yourself in a situation in the car or walking the streets where you were empty-handed and wished you had something more than a smile or cash to offer someone in need? Attendees will come together and join resources to create love packs filled with healthy snacks & drinks, handwarmers, a fun treat, and create handwritten notes of encouragement. You will leave with love packs and a challenge to intentionally seek out or to remain open to opportunities to disperse love packs to anyone in need.
All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.

A Relaxing Altered Deck of Cards Experience Contemplative
2025-09-18 12:00 - 13:00 UTC
Thursday September 18, 2025
12:00pm-1:00pm
$10.00 Take your lunch break with us to unwind, slow down, and tap into your creative intuition in this peaceful workshop.Transform ordinary playing cards into beautiful, personal works of art—each one a small canvas for self-expression, reflection, and calm. Using simple mixed media techniques—such as collage, paint, and stamping—you’ll alter cards into a soothing series of mini art pieces. No artistic experience needed—just bring a curious heart and a willingness to relax and create. This will be a repeating bi-weekly class so you have the option to build your deck throughout the year. You can expect to complete at least 2 cards per class.

All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and are suitable for individuals ages 16+
Contemplative classes are intentionally crafted with the ambience in mind. Some classes may either begin or end with a guided meditation or a short guided breath work exercise and will be an opportunity to quiet the mind & body and allow the creative process to reconnect you to yourself. A great opportunity to be amongst others while remaining within yourself. Connecting in quietness!

Button Birds- Tufted Titmouse Contemplative
2025-09-17 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York)
Wednesday September17, 2025
10:00am-12:00pm
$35.00
Join us for a relaxing, nature-inspired crafting session where we’ll create charming button art birds using upcycled materials, with a special focus on the Tufted Titmouse—a small songbird known for its gentle spirit and curious nature.
In this class, you’ll use a mix of buttons and other salvaged treasures to form a delightful bird silhouette on a sturdy backing. Each piece is uniquely your own—no two birds will look the same, and that’s part of the beauty. We’ll guide you through basic composition and layering, but the real emphasis is on slowing down, enjoying the process, and making space for calm creativity.
As we craft, we’ll reflect on the symbolism of the Tufted Titmouse, a bird often associated with curiosity, quiet confidence, and presence. With its bright eyes and signature crest, the titmouse reminds us to stay open to joy in everyday moments and to sing our own song—no matter how small.
Note: Because we work with salvaged materials, final projects may differ slightly from calendar examples, adding to the uniqueness of each creation.

Craft a Keepsake: The DIY Bookfold Bouquet
2025-09-13 13:00 - 15:00 UTC
Saturday September 13, 2025
1:00pm-3:00pm
$35.00
Calling all book lovers & creative crafters! Transform a beloved book into a stunning floral centerpiece. In this unique workshop, you’ll learn the art of book folding to create a beautiful, vase-like sculpture, then craft a complementary faux floral arrangement to display inside. By the end of the class, you’ll not only have a beautiful, finished piece to take home, but also the skills to continue exploring this creative and meditative craft.
All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and suitable for individuals 16+.

Sunflower Embroidery Earrings
2025-09-13 10:00 - 12:00 UTC
Saturday September 13, 2025
10:00am-12:00pm
$35.00
Tiny Stitching, Big Impact
Join us for a delicate and rewarding workshop where we’ll create miniature sunflower embroidery pieces and turn them into wearable earrings. Using basic embroidery techniques and a warm fall-inspired palette, you’ll stitch charming sunflowers onto tiny fabric circles—perfect for handmade jewelry.
This is fine, detailed work, so patience and hand dexterity are essential. We’ll guide you step-by-step, but be prepared to slow down, focus, and embrace the tiny scale of this beautiful craft.
All materials are provided, and you’ll leave with a finished pair of sunflower earrings—or as much progress as time allows. A lovely project for those who enjoy stitching, nature-inspired designs, and thoughtful handiwork.

All classes at Thrifty Connections are intended for adults and are suitable for individuals ages 16+
