In-Person Workshops
Looking for natural dye workshops?
Casey is teaching a natural dye class in Milwaukie, OR in February and several classes in Sisters, OR in July. Find more information here.
FAMILY PROGRAMS ON THE FARM
Family Programs are limited to no more than 3 families for each workshop, ensuring plenty of hands-on time with both animals and equipment. We know families come in all sizes and configurations. For the purpose of these programs, a family is defined as 1 - 2 adults and 1 - 4 participating children who live together. Larger families are more than welcome but we may limit the program to a fewer number of families and/or ask for a slightly higher fee. Please contact us about registering a large family.
Wild Wool Workshops
Just how does wool right from a sheep become a soft, fluffy sweater? There’s not time to make a whole sweater in this program but you and your kids will experience every step of processing sheep’s wool starting with getting to know our own sheep.
You will get to visit our flock of friendly Shetland sheep, feed them from your hand and even walk one on a leash! You will also get to see what their wool looks like once it’s sheared and just how much dirt and oil comes off of it when we wash it. Next you will card some wool, making it soft and cloud-like, using several different tools. You’ll practice using a drop spindle to turn some into yarn and see how a spinning wheel works.
We will also spend some time exploring the forest while you’re here, visiting our rabbits, and learning about other types of fur that the forest animals have. At the end of the program you will get to take home yarn you’ve made, as well as some fluffy, carded wool.
During this program you will spend about half the time indoors and half outside even in inclement weather. Please dress to be comfortable in the weather. You are welcome to bring a snack for your family.
This program is best suited for children ages 5 and up but younger siblings are welcome to attend and will be invited to participate as they are able.
Time: Workshops begin at 10:00 AM. Please allow 2.5 - 3 hours.
Cost: $100 per family
2025 dates coming soon
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are programs held?
Programs are held at Cedar Dell Forest Farm, 8015 SW Rodlun Rd. Gresham, OR 97080. Click here to see our location on a map. Cedar Dell is a working farm in the middle of a forest so there is uneven ground and there are few stairs leading to the studio/classroom. Our bathroom is up a flight of stairs from the studio.
Who teaches these programs?
Cedar Dell Forest Farm is a family owned and operated farm. Programs are led by Casey Newman, who has decades of experience an an environmental educator and is an accomplished textile artist. Michael Newman provides logistical support and while you're here you may also get a helping hand from one of their teenage children. Click here to learn more about Casey and Michael Newman.
What if I have to cancel?
Cedar Dell Forest Farm understands that family schedules change and unexpected events occur. We aim to accommodate cancellations and schedule changes whenever possible. Please communicate any changes you need to make to your registration as soon as you are able.
- 7 or more days before program date - full refund, less a $10 processing fee
- 6 days or less before program date - no refund. Rescheduling may be possible depending on availability in future sessions.
Cedar Dell reserves the right to cancel if minimum enrollment is not met. If we need to cancel for this or any other reason such as weather, illness, etc., participants may choose between a full refund or reschedule to a different date.
Are the programs held indoors or outside?
Family programs will include a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, even in wet and/or cold weather. Depending on the program, we also may utilize our 600 square foot covered deck. Please wear layers to stay comfortable and sturdy, closed toe shoes for walking around on our farm.
Online Workshops are available any time!
“Casey was a really great instructor, and the setting of the Farm itself was absolutely charming [. . .] Perfect for beginners and for those who've gotten their hands dirty with prior dyeing experience, we highly recommend Casey's workshops, and look forward to our next visit.” - workshop participant
“Casey is a scientist and experienced printer and calm teacher. The class was small, informative and answered through a straight forward demo. Casey was generous answering questions and letting you love and meet her animal friends.”
- workshop participant
