Handcraft Master-Classes

Participating in handcraft master-classes is a unique opportunity to know the secrets of traditional arts and crafts techniques. Our guests are invited to take part in the fascinating process of creation of new artworks, to try themselves as various handicraftsmen: potters, blacksmiths, weavers… 

Smithery

In the Blacksmith Yard of the Kremlin in Izmailovo professional artists-smiths create their fine works. This forge is unique in Moscow and includes the museum of artistic smithery. 

Hot forge-fire, hammer, anvil, holder – that is all you need to start your smithery. The real masters will be happy to help you in making your own horse shoes “for luck” using these simple and old instruments.

It is also possible to organize “Blacksmiths’ Show” outdoors or at your place. 

Pottery

The “Kremlin in Izmailovo” has its own pottery workshop. Here one can create souvenirs, small sculptures, house-wares. Because of the exclusive handwork operation, each peace of work, each pattern and ornament becomes really alive, gains unique individuality.

Preparation of materials and forms, painting and burning of products in special pottery kiln – all these mean not just professional handwork, but fascinating and exciting process which in fact remains the same for hundreds and hundred years. 

Weaving

Weaving loom is one of the most ancient human tools, and weaving is one of the most ancient handicrafts, but the interest to this handcraft is not decreasing. Instead more and more creative people become enamored with hand-made weaving artwork. 

The master will explain to you the principles of the loom operation and will help you to produce your own fabric. With an old loom you will be able to create bright and nice artwork, such as doormat, table-cloth, napkin – whatever your fantasy wants. 

Painting on wood, decoration of wooden and clay toys

Russian craftsmen add thousands of colors and various ornaments to the natural beauty of wood and clay items. Is it an easy thing to paint the Matryoshka nesting doll? You can learn it yourself in the Izmailovo Kremlin. 

Wood carving

Wood carving takes one of the leading places among various kinds of decorative and applied arts. Wood is the ideal material for the master. Wood texture has always charmed a man. It is possible to learn this craft at any age – all what you need is fantasy and a little bit of free time. 

Osier weaving

Osier weaving is one of the most ancient Russian crafts. Where are quite a lot of things a skilled craftsman can make of osier – from a basket to wicker furniture. Every master has his own technique and secrets. During this master-class you will not only know the history of this ancient craft but also learn the technique of weaving. 

Scrappy doll master-class

Scrappy doll is easy to make and doesn’t need expensive materials. It will be a wonderful present for children and adults.

Everyone used to have a favorite toy, doll. But how many of us know that a doll is an ancient invention of mankind. People used it not only as a toy but as a mascot to protect the kid. Peasants used to make dolls of different materials but the most common was textile. So what kind of toys you can make of rags and how to make them you can learn from our masters.

Tatting on bobbins

Tatting has been a favorite work for women from the old times. With the help of our masters we try to carry this tradition on. The origin of Russian lace is connected with different cities. Each of them created its own decorative way of tatting. Laces from different parts of Russia differ from each other with tracery, color and thickness but the technique of tatting are based on setting-up the bobbins spooled with thread in an appointed way. We invite you to try yourself and learn this elegant fancy-work.

Straw plait

In the folk crafts and art straw is an irreplaceable supple material. Twisted, rolled and tied wisps turn into dolls, figures of birds and animals. The art of straw plait is herd but fascinating work. Our masters know the material, feel the scope and proportion and will help you to become proficient in this work.

Cross embroidery

Cross embroidery is one of the most popular kinds of embroidery and it is wildly used by the fancy-work lovers. It is easy to get that the stitches made by a skilled hand have the form of crosses. With this kind of stitch one can decorate some clothes or the parts of it (collars, pockets, belts), table-cloth, serviette, sofa pillows, etc. After you gain more experience you’ll be able to create your own patterns but first you can use finished articles that we’re lucky to possess as our ancestor’s heritage.

Beads weaving

Glass beads are material which gives unlimited opportunities for arts and crafts. In addition to traditional adornments there are a lot of other themes such as flowers, ornamental trees, caskets twined around with glass beads and even notebooks. Any wares made this way will be absolutely unique.

Painting the textile (batik)

Batik gives unlimited opportunities for creating little miniatures like cards or bigger items: shawls, clothes, etc. One can note the beauty of pictures created in the Cold or the Hot style of batik and framed.

Painting the glass

Patchwork

Sewing in patchwork style is traditional craft which has long history. Many peoples of different times produced beautiful works that are considered to be works of art. Patchwork is joining some pieces shaped in geometrical figures and of different color together. This kind of articles is very popular nowadays. After you gain more experience you’ll be able to create such large works as quilts, bedspreads and pictures. So this work will help you not only express yourself but decorate your home and make it more comfortable. It will not be a hard thing to do. Basic skills in sewing will be enough for you to start and the master will teach you the rest.

Musical master-class

The most joyful and fascinating master-class in Russian folk music! You will learn the origin Russian art – playing wooden spoons and popular Russian songs and dances. This unique musical instrument – wooden spoons you will take with you to astonish your friends with your skills!

To arrange master-classes, please call:
+7 (499) 166-50-37, 166-50-29, Fax: +7 (499) 166-50-37,
or e-mail grad@moscow-vernisage.com