The Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen, headquartered in Lancaster, PA, holds 250 workshops to engage over 1800 students annually, from middle school students to senior citizens. Disciplines taught include Ceramics, Glass, Jewelry, Fiber, Drawing, Painting, Weaving, Woodworking, and others. In addition to our Lancaster studios, we partner with other sites to hold workshops remotely to remove student barriers to engagement at senior centers, galleries, residential communities, and schools. We offer online, remote learning, workshops for students who prefer distance learning.
Our programs are designed to educate, create, and inspire the creativity and growth of our students and community. We are dedicated to introducing and expanding fine craft skills and intergenerational learning.
The PGC receives state arts funding support through a grant from the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, a state agency funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Workshops
The Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen offers an array of classes for adults in blacksmithing, glass, jewelry, fiber, wood, and pottery. Our workshops are accessible for everyone, with most being suitable for beginners. We strive to continually connect our Guild members and local artists to the local community through education. Join us for an afternoon or evening and learn a new skill!
Fine Craft As A Business
PGC’s Fine Craft As A Business program was initiated in 2018 as a multi-layered, year-long program for craft artists of any age who have less than two years of experience selling their craft/art. Our goal has always been to assist PGC members who seek to become professional or semi-professional artisans.
As part of this program, we offer workshops to help enrich the experience, and we match Mentee applicants with Master Artisan Mentors. Topics include:
- How to set up as a business
- Photographing your work
- Sales outlets:
- PGC Fine Craft Fairs / Local Craft shows
- Consignment
- On-line
- Pricing
- Booth design
Master Artisan Status
Master Artisan status recognizes artists in the Guild who exemplify our three benchmarks: Excellence in Craftsmanship, Resolved Design and Unique Voice or Faithful Representation of a Heritage Craft. To achieve this honor, members’ work is juried by a panel of Master Artisans.
Master Artisans also enjoy additional benefits such as:
- Special consideration for participation in PCG Fine Craft Fairs and exhibitions
- Eligibility to win awards presented at PGC Fine Craft Fairs
- Priority image use on PGC marketing and advertising materials
- Eligibility for “Monday Meet the Master Artisan” on PGC’s social media
- Recognition as a Master Artisan on the PGC website
- Show selection scoring bonus for PGC Fine Craft Fairs
