Tag: class

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Preparing a class

Class

Never taught a class before and don’t know where to start? Don’t hesitate to do something you’ve always wanted to do, check out this post to get the ball rolling.

The syllabus

The first step to preparing a course is making a syllabus. Who are your students? What are you trying to teach them? Write down your goals (a few short statements is fine), the supplies you’ll need, and start making your course schedule.

The lesson plan

Determine an objective for each class session, while keeping class time in mind. Some people like a more structured class, so consider including a beginning, middle, and an end to each session. Be sure that your lesson plans are flexible, you never know what question you’re going to get or what hiccups you may encounter along the way.

Managing your class

Talk to other instructors before you begin. Not only will you learn from them, but they can give you ideas too. Learning who your students are and what they want is incredibly important as well. Consider sending a Google survey to your customers to find out what they’re interested in learning. And during the class, be sure to reach out to everyone often, don’t assume that everyone will ask for help when they need it.

Keep in touch with your students after the class for feedback. What did you do right, and what could be done better? What other classes are they interested in participating in?

Teaching a class can be one of the most fulfilling parts of being a quilt retailer; take advantage of the opportunity and help your craft community grow.

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Think Outside the Box

Class ideas

Is it difficult for you to decide what classes your quilt shop should offer? This blog post is all about outside-the-box class ideas your community is guaranteed to love.

Class Ideas Everyone Will Love

  1. Flower arranging. There is beauty in every day things and flowers are full of that beauty. This craft is sure to attract both current creative customers and new creatives too. I remember this class being a hit back in my university days and currently with the Minneapolis Institute of Art offering a similar event with a twist. Invite your local greenhouse gardeners to help make this class a hit.
  2. Cocktail lab. With opportunities to make this class seasonal, this also provides another way to get outside community business owners involved. Have bartenders from your favorite local restaurant help attendees learn about flavors and pairings, how to make their most-sold drinks, and more.
  3. Watercolor. This craft is a great entry for those wanting to learn how to paint. This class could be a series, or a girls night out. With minimal set up and supplies needed, a quick rearrangement of your shop makes your business the perfect venue.
  4. Dancing. When was the last time you and your partner danced? After a class of movement (and remembering how to waltz), you’ll also remember how much fun it used to be for you. This course is great for all ages—consider pairing youth with elderly, or having a couple classes for different age groups.

What classes have worked for you? Share in the comments below what continues to be a hit for your shop!

Have you heard the news? American Quilt Retailer is hosting the opening session at spring Quilt Market in Kansas City! Their Schoolhouse Series includes breakout sessions and an opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge from the people who make, design, or write about the products you sell. Register to attend today.