FOLK ART WEEKEND SET JUNE 8-11

Classes in dolls, teddy bears, egg decorating, knitting and huck weaving will highlight a Folk Art weekend in Thermopolis, June 8-11.

Some classes are 'hens-and-chicks' workshops for two or more generations -- mother, daughter, grandchildren -- to work together. Others are for specific age groups.

"Make a Soft-Sculpture Doll" (ages 15-up) will be taught by Kathy Hammond, Thermopolis, Thurs., June 8, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. It requires some needle skills.

"Make Your Own Teddy Bear" (ages 15-up) will be taught by Judy Myrstol, Gillette. Myrstol is one of Wyoming's best known soft-sculpture teddy bear artists. She creates finished bears as well as patterns and kits. The class will begin Fri. evening, June 9, 6-9 p.m. and will continue Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Several of Myrstol's bears are displayed in the Center's Teddy Bear Den.

"Ukranian Egg Decorating" (ages 7-up) will be conducted by Laurie Spearman, who teaches in Casper. It will be held Fri. evening, 6-9 p.m.

"Huck Weaving" (ages 7-up) will be conducted by Brenda Evans, Thermopolis, Sat., June 10, 9 a.m.-noon. Even young children can create designs after they learn a few basic stitches.

"Auntie A's Basic Knitting for Kids" (ages 7-up, adults welcome) with Audrey Philips, Thermopolis, will be held Sat., June 10, 1-3 p.m. Philips earned her master knitter designation in England and is known for her innovative designs and techniques.

A video showing of "The Great International Teddy Bear Connection" by Ellen Sue Blakey will be held Saturday noon. It is open free to all class participants. Non-participants may attend free with museum admission.

Classes are sponsored by Big Horn Basin Foundation, Keeping You in Stitches and KTHE radio. For costs and supply lists, contact Dancing Bear Folk Center, 307/864-9396 or Keeping You in Stitches, 307/864-9490. Dancing Bear Folk Center is located in the Old West Wax Museum complex, 119 S. 6th on Highway 20, Thermopolis.