Instructor:Â Â Emily Smucker-Beidler
Skill Level: Beginner
In this workshop, participants will learn what birds were prevalent here in southeastern Pennsylvania in the 1700s and find connections through Fraktur images. Learn where the polka-dot, checkerboard, and various striped patterns came from that we now enjoy in Fraktur.
Then, participants will be shown some “tricks” to drawing their own fanciful birds in the Fraktur style, as well as adapting patterns from original, historic works using light boards. They will then complete a small, 5×7 Fraktur bird. All materials are included, with enough to take home with you and continue creating once the workshop is over.
Ages 13-100 and all ability levels are welcome. Fraktur is for everyone!
Supplies needed: Students will need to bring their own watercolor palette or Emily will have watercolor kits that can be purchased from the instructor for $20. All other materials are included in the tuition.
About Fraktur:
Fraktur was created by Pennsylvania Germans during the eighteenth through the mid nineteenth centuries and features calligraphic text decorated with colorful birds, hearts and flowers. The tradition has its roots in the illuminated manuscripts of medieval Europe but evolved into a distinctive part of the local Pennsylvania German culture. Today, those who appreciate this colorful folk art enjoy drawing their own fraktur designs based on the work of the early fraktur artists.
About the Instructor: Ever since sixth grade, Emily Smucker-Beidler has been creating Fraktur after learning from Roma Ruth, a well respected Fraktur Artist from Montgomery County, PA. After receiving an Art Education degree and Master’s degree in Art Education, Emily has made her 31-year career in teaching art her passion, while continuing to create custom Fraktur for hundreds of clients. She brings her experience and enthusiasm for teaching to her Fraktur workshops and welcomes artists of all ages and ability levels.
Cancellation/Refund Policy:Â
We understand that plans can change, and we strive to accommodate our participants as best as possible. Please review our refund policy before registering for a workshop:
In order to request a withdrawal from a workshop, students must contact the Guild by phone at 717-431-8706 or contact us here.
Cancellations More Than 7 Days Before the Workshop
If a cancellation is made more than 7 days before the workshop, a 10% administrative fee will be deducted from any refund to the original form of payment to cover credit card processing and administrative costs. A workshop credit of 100% of the tuition may also be offered. Workshop credits expire 6 months after the date of the workshop.
Cancellations Within 4-7 Days of the Workshop
Cancellations made within 4 to 7 days of the workshop are not eligible for a refund to the original form of payment but may be transferred to another class or issued as a workshop credit for future use. Workshop credits expire 6 months after the date of the workshop.
Cancellations 3 Days or Less of the Workshop
Cancellations made within 3 days of the workshop are not eligible for a refund or a workshop credit.
No-Show Policy
If you do not notify us ahead of the class and fail to attend, you are not eligible for a refund or a workshop credit.
Classes canceled by the instructor or the Guild.
Students are eligible to receive a 100% refund to the original form of payment or workshop credit if the workshop is canceled by the instructor or the Guild. Workshop credits expire within 6 months of the date of the workshop.
To purchase a ticket at the member discounted rate, please login here.
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Fanciful Fraktur Birds
2025-09-13
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Venue: PA Guild of Craftsmen
Venue Phone: 717-431-8706
Venue Website: www.pacrafts.org
Address: