05/14/2026 | News release | Distributed by Public on 05/15/2026 21:12
Saint Francis Summer Arts presents:
Age & Skill Level: All skills levels welcome. 18+ only
Locations: Connors Family Fine Arts Center, Saint Francis University
Workshop fee: $250 + minimal supply fee
Please contact April Beiswenger at [email protected] with questions or to register for a workshop.
July 10-11 from 9am - 4pm
Instructor: Dr. Lisa Beiswenger
In this two-day workshop, students will get a quick introduction to various bookbinding techniques by exploring book structures and basic skills of the art form. The class will begin with a simple pamphlet and continue with constructing multi-signature books utilizing a variety of binding techniques. Bookbinding Basics is a great way to familiarize yourself with bookbinding and is perfect for those who are curious about the craft. All levels of experience are welcome to register. No prior experience necessary, but all registrants must be 18+.
Tools & Supplies: Please bring a notebook and a pencil. All other tools and supplies are provided for this class.
Attire: This is a general list of how to dress for the shop environment: Closed-toe, comfortable, and protective footwear (sneakers or boots). No loose clothing. Long pants suggested. No loose jewelry. Long hair must be tied back.
July 16-17 or July 18-19 from 9am - 4pm
Instructor: Gina Williams
Join instructor Gina Williams of Gala Crafts in learning the art of stained glass! This two-day workshop is beginner-friendly and will teach students all they need to know about the basics of stained glass, including transferring a pattern, cutting and grinding glass, foiling, soldering, and cleaning the final project. Students will also learn how to work with glass and the chemicals safely. No prior experience necessary, but all registrants must be 18+.
Tools & Supplies: Please bring a notebook and a pencil. All other tools and supplies are provided for this class. Goggles will be provided, but feel free to bring your own.
Attire: This is a general list of how to dress for the shop environment: Closed-toe, comfortable, and protective footwear (sneakers or boots). No loose clothing. Long pants suggested. No loose jewelry. Long hair must be tied back.
August 1-2 from 9am - 5pm
Instructor: Jessica Campbell
This workshop will cover the basic techniques of getting started in encaustics, including safety, basic tools, and fundamental techniques like layering, fusing, and texture to build confidence in art making. Built-in projects such as collage, photo transfer, and mixed media will give you the skills to experiment with multiple techniques. No prior experience necessary, but all registrants must be 18+.
Tools & Supplies: Please bring a notebook and a pencil. All other tools and supplies are provided for this class, but it is suggested that participants bring their own hake brushes and mark making tools. Students should also bring photocopies of images to use as source materials.
Attire: This is a general list of how to dress for the shop environment: Closed-toe, comfortable, and protective footwear (sneakers or boots). No loose clothing. Long pants suggested. No loose jewelry. Long hair must be tied back.
August 8-9 from 9am - 5pm
Instructor: Jessica Campbell
In this workshop, participants will master the fundamentals of acrylic painting from beginner to advanced levels and learn how to mix color effectively. We will also identify and use basic equipment required for acrylic painting, develop different brush techniques to create textures and effects, and learn to create depth in landscape paintings. Participants will also learn to paint diverse natural elements like trees, clouds, and bodies of water. No prior experience necessary, but all registrants must be 18+.
Tools & Supplies: Please bring a notebook and a pencil. All other tools and supplies are provided for this class.
Attire: This is a general list of how to dress for the shop environment: Closed-toe, comfortable, and protective footwear (sneakers or boots). No loose clothing. Long pants suggested. No loose jewelry. Long hair must be tied back.
The Connors Family Fine Arts Center at Saint Francis University, located at 181 St. Catherine Street in Loretto Pa., is a creative hub for students across disciplines. All majors are welcome! It houses the Resinski Black Box Theatre and the Art Garage, providing opportunities for both performing and visual arts. As part of the School of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), the Center emphasizes the role of creativity and expression in a well-rounded education.
Explore more arts-related happenings at SFU on our Arts Events home page.