The Joel Fund: Operation ART

Learn how to naturally dye fabrics to transform a simple bag into accessory art. Make a personalized tote bag using a pocket face made from naturally dyed fabrics.  Your unique textile collage pocket will bear artwork made from stitch meditations from your own hand as you learn from the instructor, Grace McFetters Caldwell, how to use specialized stitches to create a composition then apply to the tote bag as a pocket.  No one in the world will have a matching tote bag like yours, and you’ll be learning skills like dyeing with natural materials like plants and bugs and hand stitching techniques that can be used every day to embellish, mend, and create.  

Students will participate in the Spring Student Showcase in May 2025 to showcase their work.  

Specific dates: 1/13, 1/27, 2/3, 2/10, 2/24, 3/3 (make up date 3/10) 

SKIP 1/20 (MLK Day) and 2/17 (Presidents Day)

A make up date will be used if a class is canceled due to the instructor's illness, inclement weather, or an emergency. If you are running late to class, or will miss a class, please contact the instructor directly or the Operation ART Program Manager at isabella@thejoelfund.org or 919 200 0886.

This class is for women only. 

We offer scholarships for those who cannot afford the registration fee. To receive the scholarship promo code, email the Operation ART Program Manager at isabella@thejoelfund.org with your name and military connection.