Teaching and Workshops

Find my classes at
-The Chicago Botanic Gardens
-The Morton Arboretum
-Lake Katherine
-La Grange Public Library
-Ravensgoods Boutique, Ravenswood, Chcicago
-The Unwaste Shop, Beverly, Chicago

Art Teaching Philosphy
I teach classes and private lessons that encourage natural observation; awareness of color, shape, and texture; and finding joy in being a beginner. Making paper flowers is quite tactile and meditative, which leads to a mindful state and enjoyable sensory awareness. I also promote a spirit of play through including paper flower skills that are delightful, such as making confetti pollen or aquarium tubing stems.

All flowers are beautiful, and I cultivate an atmosphere that celebrates students' art efforts. My patterns and projects are accomplishable, and I prefer to use designs that I enjoy myself, ones that involve minimal measuring and fussiness. I learn so much from my students' flowers and love it when they go places my own flowers don't.

As my own life has shown, art can be for anyone! I try to be aware of participants’ challenges and provide constant feedback and access to assistance. I have a lifetime career in adult education with advanced degrees incorporating teaching the public and in higher education.

My classes in crepe paper, cyanotypes, resin, and felt are most popular.
- Icelandic poppies
- Rose retreat
- Spring flower felt bouquet
- Red poppies for Veterans (both to make for Veterans or by Veterans)
- Lily-flowered tulips
- Fringed tulips
- Cosmic mica resin jewelry
- Flower garden resin jewelry
- Botanical cyanotype prints
- Cozy mystery cyanotype prints


I also am delighted to teach
-Private in-home craft parties
-Corporate retreats and in-services

If you are looking for free classes, check out @craftalongwithkate on YouTube.

Please see my portfolio for more samples and photos. Reach out to katesvelvetacorn at gmail for more information.