Pickings from Sanborn Mills Farm

Farm Pickings

News and Updates from Sanborn Mills Farm

— April 10, 2024 —

Sanborn Mills Farm at Solar Eclipse Totality, 3:28 p.m. EDT, April 8, 2024. The Farm was in the zone for 95% solar coverage.

I was born during an eclipse. I believe very much in astrology. If you were born on an eclipse it indicates your destiny is chaotic.

~ Gloria Vanderbilt

2024 Workshop Season Now Under Way

Sanborn Mills Farm’s full 2024 workshop season has opened! Take a look at the full schedule, which extends all the way into November, here. A reminder: many of our workshops fill quickly, so if one or more pique your interest, don’t hesitate to register. And be sure to check out our lodging and meal options.

Save the Date: Open Farm Day June 16

Mark your calendar for our popular Open Farm Day at Sanborn Mills Farm, this year on June 16. During the day you and your family and friends can tour our extensive grounds, take garden tours, watch sawmill and grist mill demonstrations, and meet our friendly draft animals up close. More information here.

Upcoming Workshops of Interest

Sanborn Mills Farm’s 2024 Workshop Program opens April 10, but it’s never too early to register for a favorite workshop later in the schedule. Many of our workshops fill quickly, so if there’s a workshop or two that catches your interest, make a point to register soon. The full schedule of 2024 workshops is posted on our website here.

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NOTE: DATE CHANGE. Our popular workshop Introduction to Spoon Carving has been rescheduled for August 3 & 4. Openings are available — register today!

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Here are three upcoming workshops that may be of particular interest to you. Click on the workshop title for more information and to register.

Willow Rope Coil Bowl

May 18 & 19

Instructor: Dan Brockett

Construct a unique and functional woven bowl using traditional European stake and strand techniques. This weave pattern showcases the natural colors and character of willow and serves as a stunning centerpiece or wall hanging. All material comes from Dan Brockett’s farm, where he grows, harvests, dries and prepares the willow by hand. Please note this craft is hand and wrist intensive.

Draft Animal: Farm & Garden

May 18 & 19

Instructors: Ray Ramsey and Tyler Allen

Ready to learn how to put your draft animals to work on a farm or in gardens? This two-day workshop provides hands-on learning for skills including plowing, discing, planting, cultivating, and cart work. Workshop participants will gain working knowledge of draft equipment and proper maintenance. Other topics include row spacing, line of draft, garden layouts, and cover cropping.

Fabric Block Printing and Pattern Design: A Deep Dive

May 29-June 2

Instructor: Susana McDonnell

Explore the magic of designing and block-printing your own fabric and fabric items. Begin by creating designs on paper, transfer them to a rubber block you carve, and print on fabric. Learn how to design patterns and make them repeat, how to optimize your inking, and fine-tune your carving skills. Leave with an array of your own hand-printed textiles.

Program Manager Marsha Grizwin and Registrar Karen Kenny demonstrate proper solar eclipse viewing technique — smiles are important! — at the Farm, April 8, 2024.

www.sanbornmills.org

Photo Credits

Top photo by Marsha Grizwin.

Open Farm Day photo by Steve Bjerklie.

Workshop photos courtesy the instructors.

Bottom photo by Marsha Grizwin.