Saturdays, 10 am - 12 pm. April 5, 12, 26, May 3, 10, 24, 31, June 7, 14, 21 (10 weeks)
EB $285 / Reg $305 + $40 materials
Want to explore Art with a range of media? We have it all in this special class: Conte, Charcoal, Pen & Ink, Watercolour, Acrylic and print making- try your hand at everything and see what ignites your passion!
April 5 - CHARCOAL with Soroush Dabiri
April 12 - ABSTRACT ACRYLIC with Terry Tora
April 26 - CONTE with Baz Kanold
May 3 - INK, WASH AND WATERCOLOUR with Moumita Roychowdhury
May 10 - WATERCOLOUR with Robert Achtemichuk
May 24 - BOTANICAL PRINTING with Anne Williamson
May 31 - COLLAGE with Maria Mesquita
June 7 - BLOCK PRINTING with Susha Suresh
June 14 - DRAWING WITH GRAPHITE PENCILS with Terry Tora
June 21- OIL PASTEL with Moumita Roychowdhury
Tuesdays, 1 - 3 pm. April 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6, 13 (6 weeks).
EB $175/Reg $185
Our lives are full of many experiences, many stories. Have you ever dreamt of sharing these with others in a memoir?
Join us for our 6 week Memory to Memoir Writing course where we’ll explore how you can turn your personal story into a well crafted memoir. In a safe and supportive environment we’ll look at a variety of topics, ranging from memoir vs autobiography, to navigating sensitive subjects, to the importance of theme, to creating images in writing, and everything in between.
Each week participants will be encouraged to try their hand at small exercises to help them develop their own “writing muscles” and unique style.
Please bring pen, paper, laptop, whatever your preference for writing.
Tuesdays, 1 to 3 pm. April 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6, 13 (6 weeks).
Please note: Students supply the materials for their course- see Supplies List below description:
Watercolour- Beginner
Explore the gratifying process of watercolour in this beginner’s course. Learn to mix colours, use various brush techniques, find out about paper, and through repetition will gain confidence working with this medium. No previous experience is necessary.
Materials List
Winsor Newton Cotman Sketchers Box 12 colours
Watercolor brushes round #12 or #10, and #6, are all you will need. Taklon is a good synthetic. Sables are great. All brushes should bounce back to a point or their original shape. Wet them to find out. If they lie flat, not worth the trouble.
A palette (not plastic), ceramic is good, a white dinner plate will work
Paper: pad of Strathmore Watercolour 300 or 400 series or other 140 lb or 300gm cold press wc paper made by Fabriano, Arches, BFK, or Johannot
For clean up and brush control, rags or a sponge are best as a means to control the amount of water in your brush. With a plastic bag for carrying
2 Yogurt containers for water
A fine spray mister (sprayer)
Tuesdays, 7 - 9 pm. April 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6, 13 (6 weeks).
This is a great class for students with a bit of painting experience interested in discovering more about acrylic painting. Working at their own pace, students will explore the use of acrylic paints, brushes and acrylic mediums while they develop and improve their painting techniques and learn to paint in their own style, whether it be landscape, fantasy or abstract.
Supplies list:
Paint:
Preferred list of colours:
Brushes:
Canvases:
Other materials:
Wednesdays, 1 - 3 pm. April 9, 16, 23, 30, May 7, 14 (6 weeks).
EB $175/Reg $185 + $15 materials fee
Please note: Students supply the basic materials for their course (see Supplies List below description), and the course provides Artist Quality Sanded Pastel Paper, Liquid All Natural Odor Free Fixative and Compressed Charcoal )
The abstract language follows a tradition of invention and Interpretation.
The course objective is to develop the concept of abstraction from source materials.
Soft pastel’s tactile nature and basic supply / material requirements are an ideal entry into the journey of exploring abstraction.
Initial colour studies from thumbnail sketches will progress in stages to the completion of larger works. This process, based on utilizing the Principles and Elements of Art is transferable to other mediums.
You will receive a 4 pg outline detailing How to Abstract, The Principles and Elements of Art, Composition Strategies, Ideas on Colour Studies in addition to Creating Larger Work and Self Critiquing.
Supply List Required
*Please note that the Pastels in this course are NOT Oil Pastels.
This course will cover the fundamentals of perspective, use of light and dark to give objects 3-D form and line drawing. Most drawings will be from observation, i.e. still life for form.
Set of pencils including at least 2H, B, HB, 2B
Artist eraser- kneadable preferred
Sketchbook 9” x 12”, suggested Strathmore 300, or other with at least 50lb paper
Wednesdays, 7 - 9 pm. April 9, 16, 23, 30, May 7, 14 (6 weeks)
Adv $175/Reg $185
This class aims to explore the beauty of different shapes and sizes of flowers using watercolours. We will paint a different kind of flower in each class and learn how to paint them using the best colour schemes. The class will talk about colour theory, values and various wash techniques both loose and detailed.
Supplies List:
Watercolour paper (140 lb or higher)
A Board to fix the paper on
Masking tape for fixing paper on board
Pencil, Eraser for sketching
Watercolour paint brushes – 1 round brush (medium), 1 round (fine tip), 1 flat brush
Roll of paper towels or cotton rags
Container of water
Palette
Masking Fluid/Frisket
Salt (Table salt/sea salt/rock salt - any salt)
Watercolour paints, colours should include:
A warm red (Cadmium/Pyrrole Red)
A cool red (Alizarin Crimson, opera pink)
A cool yellow (Cadmium Yellow Light/Lemon Yellow)
A warm yellow (Nickel Azo Yellow/Cadmium Yellow Deep)
A warm blue (Ultramarine Blue, Cobalt Blue)
A cool blue (Phthalo Blue)
Payne's Grey/ Neutral tint
White gouache or white watercolours
EB $175/Reg $185 + 15 materials fee
Please note: Students supply the basic materials for their course and a small materials fee for specialized pastel paper & fixative, provided by the course)
see Supplies List below description:
New students learn the basic approaches to Soft Pastel Art and returning students explore more advance techniques. This combined intro/intermediate course covers the material side of Soft Pastels, related art materials and techniques for students new to the medium and those looking to deepen their current knowledge. Pastel artwork is considered a drawing medium but it's versatility allows painterly effects to be developed. Drawing skill is an asset but not required. Several methods of Pastel application will be explored resulting in the completion of 3 to 4 landscape works of art.
Materials List:
Recommended Brands: sold in sets or individual sticks: Holbein Artist Pastels, Rembrandt Soft Pastels, Diane Townsend Thinline or Soft Forms.
If you own any artist grade dry (soft) Pastels they will be appropriate for use. Pastel Pencils are useful but a set of Pastel sticks is required.
Please note that the Pastels in this course are NOT Oil Pastels.
Thursdays 1 - 3 pm. April 10, 17, 24, May 1, 8, 15 (6 weeks).
Adv $175/Reg $185 + $15 materials fee
Learn the basics of machine-sewing from loading a bobbin to trouble- shooting a jammed machine! Participants will make a customized tote bag and a bonus project (or two) if time allows. No experience is necessary.
Please note: The instructor has a severe allergy to chamomile. It is a common additive to many perfumes and scented products. Please treat this as a scent free class.
Thursdays, 7 - 9 pm. April 10, 17, 24, May 1, 8, 15 (6 weeks).
Adv $175/Reg $185 + $30 materials fee
Be transported to a summer day where the sky is blue, the water is calm and a lone tree on a rocky point invites you to pause with wonder. We’ll use the wet felting and needle felting techniques to depict in wool, a classic northern scene. All the required tools and materials will be supplied to you and demonstration and direct instruction will allow you to interpret the reference photo supplied by the instructors. You will learn to embellish your scene with textiles, hand stitching and beading to add layers and depth. No prior experience is required. Experienced artists, artisans and returning students will be able to bring their skill set and experience to the scene as well.
Thursdays, 1 - 3 pm. April 17, 24, May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, June 5, 12, 19. (10 weeks).
EB $350/Reg $365 + $40 materials
In this 7-week course, learn to make various functional and decorative pottery forms using slab, pinch pot, and sculpting techniques. You will also learn about surface decoration- carving, adding elements, and glazing.
Fridays 7 - 9 pm. April 25, May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 (6 weeks).
Are you an animal lover who'd love to learn more about how to draw some of your favourite creatures? This class will dive into drawing animals, and how to draw them in a way that fits your style. Learn how to break down animals into simplified forms, draw fur and scales, and bring life to the animals you love the most. This class is welcoming of beginners or more intermediate drawers.
Saturdays, 10 am – 12 pm. April 26, May 3, 10, 24, 31, June 7 (6 weeks).
In this course, we'll journey into nature's Spring beauty as we explore the techniques and nuances of painting with watercolour. Through regular visits to local parks and nature areas, we'll capture our own source images via camera, and then take them back to the studio for inspiration and reference. Through the practices, you'll learn to harness the transformative power of watercolour as we delve into representing the breathtaking landscapes and scenes that surround us. Through a series of hands-on demonstrations and exercises, you'll master essential watercolour techniques and washes, honing your skills with each brushstroke. This course is about more than just experiencing the medium – it's about developing a keen eye and a deeper understanding of colour, light, and shadow. By observing and capturing the subtle gradations of natural light, you'll enhance your sight skills, laying a strong foundation for your journey as a visual artist. Dig into the world of color observation as we explore the darkness, brightness, warmth, and coolness of diverse tonal values found in the ever-changing light of daylight. Through thoughtful analysis and practice, you'll learn to discern and replicate these tonal variations, refining your ability to capture the essence of your surroundings on paper. Join me on this artistic adventure as we blend creativity with the beauty of the natural world. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist seeking inspiration, this course offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and unleash your creativity.
Supplies:
1- Cotman Watercolour set
2- Mixed head type and sizes watercolour paint brush; Flat, round, and fine
3- Watercolour Paper block. About 8 x 10 inches or any similar sizes
4- Small water container
5- Rag or paper towel
6- Small size drawing board
7- Camera for reference shots (phone is fine!)
Mondays, 7 - 9 pm. April 28, May 5, 12, 26, June 2, 16, 23 (7 weeks).
EB $205/Reg $215 + $25 materials fee
Have you ever wanted to get better with creating your own unique compositions? Or figure out how to put together a great colour scheme for a piece? In this 6-week art fundamentals course, you will learn important fundamental topics to art including: Colour Theory, The Elements and Principles of Design, Light and Shadow, and Composition, along with other tips and tricks to create your own artwork from scratch. Each week we will work with different mediums to help create small pieces that capture the concepts we're learning. Let's work together to bring new life to your work and get back to basics!
Mondays, 7 – 9 pm. April 28, May 5, 12, 26, June 2, 9, 16, 23 (8 weeks)
EB $235/Reg $245
A basic beginners’ course to explore, through a series of practical assignments and in-class discussions, both your camera and photography:
Participants will learn the basic functions of your camera and explore the foundations of photographic theory, including exposure, colour balance, image quality control, storage of digital images, preparing shots for printing and viewing via the internet. Although this is more of a technical course, there will be opportunities to look at aspects of composition that will help improve your photography.
Required: You must bring your own digital camera. It’s preferable to have a camera that has a means to have manual control, but not absolutely necessary. However, cell phone camera are definitely not suitable.
Please also bring: Thumb drive, Sketchbook/Journal
Mondays, 7 - 9 pm. April 28, May 5, 12, 26, June 2, 9, 16, 23 (8 weeks).
EB $225/Reg $245
This oil painting course invites students to explore the depths of their creative expression through a dynamic interplay of form, color, light, and shadow. Designed for budding artists who wish to connect deeply with the world around them, this course emphasizes the importance of personal interpretation over literal representation. Students will learn to draw inspiration from both natural and handmade objects, using these as a springboard for artistic exploration.
Through a series of guided exercises, students will develop essential skills in observation, composition, and color harmony. They will engage with various oil painting techniques to enhance their ability to convey mood, emotion, and narrative in their work. This course fosters an environment of experimentation, encouraging students to embrace their unique artistic voices while mastering the fundamentals of oil painting.
Supply List:
Oil Paints: 37ml tubes of Winton Oil Colour:
Titanium White
Ivory Black
Burnt Sienna
Yellow Ochre
Viridian Hue
Permanent green light
Phthalo Blue
French Ultramarine
Cadmium Red Deep Hue
Cadmium Yellow Pale Hue
Paint brushes:
Flat brushes, #1, 4, 8, and 12.
Palette Cup
Medium:
Linseed oil
Turpentine
Canvas or Painting Surface:
Stretched Canvas, 11” x 14”
Canva-Paper; an economical alternative to canvas
Rags or Paper Towels: These are essential for wiping brushes, cleaning up spills, and creating texture in the paint.
Palette Sealable Container: Useful for storing and preserving leftover paint for future use.
Brush Cleaner: A gentle brush cleaner is needed for cleaning brushes after painting.
Sketching Materials: Pencils, charcoal, or other sketching materials are useful for planning and sketching out the composition before applying paint.
Fridays, 7 - 9 pm. May 16, 23, 30, June 6, 13, 20 (6 weeks)
Adv $175/Reg $185 + $10 materials fee
Over this six week course, you will design and create a felted image onto either a sweater you want to upscale and or creatively mend, or create a pillow using your design from a recycled sweater.
Tuesdays, 1 - 3 pm. May 20, 27, June 3, 10, 17, 24 (6 weeks).
Crochet is one of the simplest of the fibre arts, and yet perhaps the most versatile. Whether you used to crochet years ago and need a refresher, or are just learning, this is the class for you!
In the first few classes you will learn/review how to hold a hook, to read a pattern and crochet some basic stitches. We will then try and practice different stitches. Next we will progress to make a cushion cover with the stitch of your choice using an easy written pattern for beginners. You will finish with a lovely handmade item to keep or give away as a gift.
Some materials for sampling will be supplied
Yarn and crochet hook, for individual project, in consultation with the instructor
This course is a follow up to the introduction to drawing and is for those who who would like to take their drawings to the next level. The addition of conte as a drawing medium will be added and there will be more emphasis on doing completed drawings developing further the skills from the introductory level course.
Tuesdays, 7 - 9 pm. May 20, 27, June 3, 10, 17, 24 (6 weeks).
Wednesdays, 1 - 3 pm. May 21, 28, June 4, 11, 18, 25 (6 weeks)
Have you ever been curious about oil paint? Learn how to paint in oil using odourless products. Explore colour theory, composition, & still life set-ups. Both landscapes and still life can be explored in this stress-free and casual course. Suitable for beginner & intermediate painters.
Small bottle Turpenoid (unscented Turpentine)
Palette Pad (9” x 12” disposable sheets)
Canvas (Dollar Store) – you choose your size (8x10 and larger), 2 at least
Paints: 37 mL size – “Winton” brand:
Required
Raw umber
Alizarin Crimson
Brushes
Baby wipes, baby food jar, small rags, apron
Wednesdays, 1- 3 pm. May 21, 28, June 4, 11, 18, 25 (6 weeks)
Learn the basics of painting traditional landscapes with watercolours. Extend your painting techniques using black ink and dry media with watercolours and explore a path towards self expression with gestural painting.
Watercolour Explorations Supply List – Winter 2025
Lesson 1-4 you will need basic watercolour painting supplies. Lesson 5&6 we will add mixed media such as watercolour crayons, watercolour pencil crayons, black sumi ink, permanent ink drawing markers and Japanese washi paper (kozo or mulberry).
Washi paper
I have some practice paper. Some kozo paper may be available for purchase from Button Factory Arts.
Watercolour Paints
Watercolour tubes are preferred but pans can be used. If you already have watercolour paints, bring them and try them out.
If you are buying individual paint colours, at a minimum buy one cool blue, one cool red and one clear yellow. Cotman by Winsor Newton is a good quality student brand to start.
Primary blue such as cobalt and/or ultramarine blue, primary red such as rose madder, permanent rose or alizaren crimson, primary yellow such as aureolin yellow, lemon yellow or cadmium yellow
You may wish to add the following colours to your palette: Burnt sienna, Sap Green, New Gamboge or pick your favourite colours to try.
Watercolour Brushes
At a minimum you will need one flat and one medium sized round watercolour brush.
1/2”, 1” flat synthetic brushes, the longer bristled brushes are preferred
Size 12, 8, 4 round synthetic watercolour brushes
Optional brushes to add later: Rigger brush, size 1 round for fine lines, fan brush, wash brush for large areas
Watercolour Paper
140 pound cold press watercolour paper. I recommended Strathmore 300 series, Fabriano 1264 pads or other brands are suitable. The high rag content will tolerate scrubbing and washing. For the lessons you will need two pieces of paper roughly 8x10 size (or 1/8 sheet) per class. I use a steel edged ruler for cutting sheets.
You need something to mix your paints on. A white plastic plate (8-10in) will work. You can buy a round or rectangular palette with lid to transport and reuse your paints. Avoid coloured, paper or Styrofoam plates.
Backboard
A hard surface waterproof board to place your paper on when painting. This will be propped up on a slight angle. A corrugated plastic core sign board slightly bigger than your paper is light weight and reasonably priced. A plain white colour is best.
Water containers & cleanup
Bring 2 containers to hold clean water. Tissues, paper towels or rags are needed to catch puddles, lift paint and for clean up.
I use a medium spray water spray bottle as a tool for applying water to paper. Mine was from Dollarama.
Bring some photos or magazine pictures for inspiration. A sketch pad and pencil will be useful for planning your painting and taking notes. You are welcome to bring a camera to take photos of my demos.
Wednesdays, 7 - 9 pm. May 21, 28, June 4, 11, 18, 25 (6 weeks).
EB $175/ Reg $185
In this course students practice the fundamentals of oil painting through a series of exciting and rewarding experiences. The course begins with familiarizing students with the basic materials used in oil painting, such as oil paints, brushes, canvases, palette knives, and palettes. Students learn how to set up a palette, arranging colors logically for easy access during the painting process. Practices start with simple subjects or still life arrangements for beginners. This allows students to focus on foundational skills without the complexity of more intricate subjects. One of the main practices in this course is experimenting the importance of underpainting by sketching and then creating a monochromatic underpainting where students are able to establish values and composition. Preparing the base or underpainting and having knowledge of mediums such as linseed oil or turpentine are essential practices for art students learning oil painting techniques. Following the theory of the complementary colors, students experiment mixing colors on their palettes to understand how different hues can be achieved. Students also practice with a wide-range brushes and techniques to achieve different textures experimenting the variety of brushwork and strokes that can be used in oil painting, from broad strokes to fine details. By Introducing students to famous oil paintings and artists they would encourage to practice on fundamental oil painting techniques, such as blending, layering, glazing, and impasto. At the end of each session students will be asked to conduct regular critiques where they can discuss their work, share insights, and receive constructive feedback, that fosters a collaborative and supportive learning environment.
Supply List
Thursdays, 1 - 3 pm. May 22, 29, June 5, 12, 19, 26 (6 weeks).
Adv $175/Reg $185 + $15 materials fee ( pattern provided)
Learn how to decipher a commercial sewing pattern. Sizing, cutting, pinning, and marking will be covered in this course. Participants will put their new skills to work to make an apron/work smock.
Supply List: Fabric - Will be discussed in the first class, but students choose and supply the fabric for their project.
IVISIT the BUTTON FACTORY ARTS HOMEPAGE
LOCATION: 25 Regina Street South
Waterloo ON N2L1R8
SUMMER HOURS:
Tuesday to Friday 10 to 7
Saturday 10 to 5
Closed Sunday
CONTACT US:
519-886-4577
Membership and rentals:
operations@buttonfactoryarts.ca
Program inquiries:
programs@buttonfactoryarts.ca
