Huh? Can you believe it? Is this true? My friend Paris sent a link over to a post at The Budget Fashionista where they talked about about “Reinvention” (craft) classes offered at select Anthropologie stores nationwide. I know my local shop was offering stylist services for free in case you needed help pulling together an outfit, but I wasn’t aware of any craft classes. Sounds a hellava lot better than sitting around in a bright room around a folding table in Michael’s or these other chain craft stores. I love Michael’s (esp. the Martha line) but if Anthro does craft classes COUNT ME IN. I would love to know how they make some of their displays. I would serious enjoy going just for the sake of being nosey, you know?
Curiosity alone will kill me until I know more. Anyone have the full scoop or class schedule? I just called the Boston store about 3 seconds ago and they confirmed this is true (craft classes) but only at certain stores and the lady that I spoke to said that they aren’t doing them on a schedule or anything yet and she’s not sure how corporate plans to communicate the classes to customers… She also added Boston currently isn’t scheduled. I think this is in it’s very early stages. I haven’t heard a peep in design blogville so I’m wondering if anyone else knows or cares. I’ll call my people (he he) in morning to see if I can give you any more details on this.
So what do you think? Would you attend an Anthropologie craft event? What would you like for them to demonstrate (be as specific as you’d like)? What is your closest store in which you’d like to attend classes? I’m hoping for Burlington, MA. Sounds like it could be a nice way to network and spend an evening along with learn something new of course!
(images from anthropologie)
Tags: "craft classes", anthropologie, decor8, reinvention
January 13th, 2009 at 9:26 pm
Hi, I’m an avid in-the-shadows decor8 reader! (I guess this is my first time coming out with an actual comment…) I’m in the process of starting a design blog of my own, but its more for myself and a catalogue of ideas than sharing with the public for now.
I would DEFINITELY take an Anthropologie craft class. I work for Free People, and I’m obsessed with the three stores in that umbrella. Just stepping into the stores gives me such design and fashion inspirations.
Go Anthro Tyson’s Corner VA!
PS. I have a question for you. I’m currently renting my apartment, and I’m a little unsure about nailing too many holes in the wall. I’m thinking of trying to create a faux-canopy of many strands of braided yarn and ribbons across my ceiling and down the walls… Do you have any ideas or suggestions on how I can do this without too many pegs? I was thinking of perhaps installing a long curtain rod along the top of the wall and tying them on?
January 13th, 2009 at 9:28 pm
do you think they would serve wine in stemware along with canapes? lol.
Somehow, I don’t think they would let people loose with paint or glue, on the reclaimed wooden tables. They would bus you to Michael’s to craft around their plastic folding banquet tables.
Dunno. I actually had to make a special trip into Lenox Mall, Atlanta back in September just to see what Anthro was all about, after reading pages and pages raving about the store and it’s styling.
Andy Mathiss last blog post: Look at this Fine Specimen
January 13th, 2009 at 9:31 pm
I’d be all over that. I have an Anthro in town here and would LOVE to get some crafty tips and tricks from them. Sometimes I stop in just to see the new window and store displays for inspiration. I know Pottery Barn does classes, but those never interested me. Anthro on the other hand….. yes yes yes.
January 13th, 2009 at 9:32 pm
I would be totally into this if it was offered at the Salt Lake store. If you happen to find a schedule online please post it.
January 13th, 2009 at 9:39 pm
Yes, yes, yes! I would most definitely attend an Anthropologie craft event and can think of a few other friends that would as well. I’ve been to the Burlington, MA location and would second a vote for that location :-)
January 13th, 2009 at 9:42 pm
I haven’t heard a peep - but count me in!
Lauras last blog post: Wall Inspiration for Lily’s Room
January 13th, 2009 at 9:48 pm
I’d be all over that! And I don’t have anything specific I’d want to learn. Everything in Anthropologie looks amazing, so they can teach me whatever they want. The closest store to me is in Corte Madera, CA. It’s about 40 mins away.
Heidi Jos last blog post: YULIA BRODSKAYA + paper =
January 13th, 2009 at 9:50 pm
Yeah, I would definitely go. Toronto’s getting an Anthropologie soon. Can’t wait - although my bank account can.
Hazels last blog post: The Luncheon of the Boating Party
January 13th, 2009 at 9:54 pm
This songs too good to be true! Oh my, I hope we have them in Chicago!
Amandas last blog post: Slips
January 13th, 2009 at 9:55 pm
*sounds
My brain is tired today…
Amandas last blog post: Slips
January 13th, 2009 at 10:04 pm
i would be all over that. they gotta have one in nyc . . . right?
jodis last blog post: leedav & the flooz
January 13th, 2009 at 10:04 pm
I attended some kind of valentine’s day themed craft class at an Anthropologie store about a year ago. It was co-sponored by ReadyMade Magazine. I wonder if they’re doing it again? None of the crafts were anything I would replicate, but I got some good ideas and they gave away some nice supplies.
January 13th, 2009 at 10:05 pm
I think this is amazing. One of my favorite stores offering a class on crafts, also one of my favorite things. I would attend often. The closest store to me is on Westheimer in downtown Houston, and I would so make the 20 minute drive…in a heartbeat! I am interested in just about everything, so I don’t have any specific suggestions (I know, that’s just a lame excuse for not coming up with anything clever!)
Love your blog, girl! You ROCK!
Becky xx
January 13th, 2009 at 10:06 pm
I second that - if you find out more please post schedule or information! I would LOVE to teach a class myself - maybe do some embroidery, felting, knitting?
please sirs last blog post: Coat Envy
January 13th, 2009 at 10:19 pm
Hi! I would love to take craft classes at Anthro - at either the Palo Alto or Burlingame, CA locations. It would be very cool. I took craft classes last Fall at RVCA in SF, in conjunction with the Beautiful Losers film premiere. It was a great, community thing to do.
Jamie Watsons last blog post: Beach game
January 13th, 2009 at 10:30 pm
I would totally attend! I am anxious to hear more about this.
Paloma
http://www.ladolcevitablog.com
Paloma of La Dolce Vitas last blog post: Fresh Perspective: An Enlightening Home
January 13th, 2009 at 10:43 pm
Please keep us posted and save me a seat in Burlington. The store design and window decor at Anthropologie are just genius! I’d hope the classes would be somewhat related.
January 13th, 2009 at 10:43 pm
I’m a display coordinator for anthro and as far as I know the craft courses are complete informal and consist of the visual team giving demo’s on various craft projects. Typically these take place at high volume stores and the only form of communication to the customer is in store signage.
January 13th, 2009 at 10:54 pm
holy cow! YES, i would attend. walking in anthro is like a class in and of itself! i can’t wait to hear more!
January 13th, 2009 at 11:05 pm
I second Burlington MA as a location!
I’d take classes, on anything. I think that as much as I loath the company practices, I still love their designs and aesthetic so I’d be more than willing to give them my hard earned cash to get some ins on stuff they do. I will say it would be nice if they did something eco friendly and repurposing items or something.
January 13th, 2009 at 11:05 pm
Oh my goodness! You have my interest piqued, Holly! I found some additional info here, although sadly no specific dates are available yet: http://www.wwd.com/retail-news/anthropologie-engagese-shoppers-with-craft-workshops-1905663?src=rss/retail/20081230 Being an Anthro freak I would definitely attend these workshops (even better that they’re free!). I have access to 3 local Anthropologie stores, but based on the WWD report I will have to drive an hour and a half to the next county (Newport Beach,CA) in order to participate. I’d still go! :)
la petite maisons last blog post: Decor Project: Living Room
January 13th, 2009 at 11:14 pm
Oh, yes!!!!! There’s an Anthropologie very close to my house (5min - City Place at Edgewater) but I can make it to Manhattan in 30min! Please, I’d love to know more about it!! TKS!!!
Carla Landis last blog post: O ano mal comecou…
January 13th, 2009 at 11:25 pm
I would love love love it! I don’t have any specific ideas as to what types of classes I’d like to see there, but anything taught by one of their display or merchandising geniuses would certainly get me out of bed on a cold Chicago morning to attend!
Jessies last blog post: color week: purple
January 13th, 2009 at 11:32 pm
I’ve always been inspired by Anthro’s displays and set-up. Count me in!
ak
January 14th, 2009 at 12:11 am
I hope when they roll them out that the NYC store is in the mix! I would absolutely take a class at Anthropologie!
MArys last blog post: EQUESTRIAN necklace
January 14th, 2009 at 12:13 am
H-Yes I would take a class at anthropologie! We expect full disclosure of anything you learn, and thanks!
christis last blog post: Verde
January 14th, 2009 at 12:59 am
Yup, it’s true! I live in Southern California about 50 miles from L.A. and they are offering classes at Anthro in Rancho Cucamonga. My best girlfriend and I were ecstatic. I wouldn’t mind crafting anything that anthro teaches. They don’t have a schedule either…it’s just kind of sporatic like when you go in and make a purchase they’ll tell u about it :-) Thanks for sharing…love your blog!
-My
January 14th, 2009 at 1:07 am
I found this information about the workshops:
http://www.wwd.com/retail-news/anthropologie-engagese-shoppers-with-craft-workshops-1905663?navSection=retail-news
No mention on how to sign up for future workshops. I would love to attend one!
BTW love your blog!
January 14th, 2009 at 1:38 am
I LOVE Anthropologie (see my last blog!) and although have never taken a craft class before, I would totally go to one at anthro just to be in the store!
Rebeccas last blog post: Letters and Monograms Galore
January 14th, 2009 at 1:39 am
Just stepping inside one of those stores and be able to afford the clothes would be enough for me!
Taylors last blog post: Daisies are a Girl’s Best Friend
January 14th, 2009 at 1:40 am
i would LOVE some anthro craft classes in the chicago area! im sure anything they have to teach us will be fabulous! :)
taras last blog post: snow days!
January 14th, 2009 at 1:43 am
eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
oh please let them do some in Portland! :)
trinas last blog post: 31* before my 31st
January 14th, 2009 at 2:05 am
hell yes!!
jen
jens last blog post: INELASTIC
January 14th, 2009 at 2:06 am
Oh yeah, I would TOTALLY be in on that. But then, my whole world would consist of nothing but Anthropologie if I could get away with it…
Chef Messys last blog post: For this Project, I’d Like to Thank Irving Penn and Our Book-Eating Dog Maggie
January 14th, 2009 at 2:54 am
palo alto CA!!! sounds fun. although i must admit i’m sick of owls and birds–i’ll pray it’s something different!
January 14th, 2009 at 3:33 am
I would so go!
Malindas last blog post: best laid plans….
January 14th, 2009 at 8:26 am
I’m so there. I’d even make the 2 hour drive to downtown Chicago.
Rachel B.s last blog post: Lovely yellow pottery!!
January 14th, 2009 at 8:56 am
Umm, yeah, I don’t think so.
January 14th, 2009 at 9:23 am
South Windsor, CT, please! That would be so awesome.
January 14th, 2009 at 9:25 am
On behalf of all crafters everywhere I am so insulted that you do not want to sit in a bright room in a chain fabric shop somewhere….okay just joking I have never been to one either!!
Please humour an Aussie who does not have an Anthropology and has never been to one…what would make it so special…do you want the effects which they have in their advertisements and if so do you think they will give away their secrets? I guess if they were going to sell what they are showcasing it might be worth it for them.
magikquilters last blog post: Colefax and Fowler remnant made into a tote bag
January 14th, 2009 at 11:02 am
Yes, I would definitely take a class at Anthropologie! I had no idea they were going to offer classes. They have a store right here in Madison, about 15 miles from my house, so wouldn’t that be convenient? I would love to take a class on screen printing for curtains and table linens.
Terriaws last blog post: My First Class
January 14th, 2009 at 11:05 am
Hello, this is my first comment I am posting in your blog. First, i love your blog. Very informative. I liked the web design aspect as well. I am a total anthropologie fan. I am definitely in. I live in NY and hoping they would host a free class session here as well. I would like for them to maybe teach how to work with cool stuff, such as patterning, creating wall hangings, artifacts, decorating light fixtures etc. I recently posted in my blog about the Staffordshire knob for $2.95
Anushas last blog post: Lighting decoration
January 14th, 2009 at 11:34 am
YES. YES. and YES.
January 14th, 2009 at 11:37 am
I also love your web site and love Anthropoligie and would love to take a class as well. Love your pillows too. I’ll bein touch.
Thanks for your information
January 14th, 2009 at 11:40 am
Holly,
Thanks for making all of us feel like the “in” crowd in our circles. You kow you are our “people” hehe.
I’m totally there!
wendys last blog post: One Stacked Tomato
January 14th, 2009 at 11:49 am
So much fun! I would love that!
xo
Melis
January 14th, 2009 at 11:50 am
I’d definitely go…plus I just heard they’re opening in London so all of us in the uk who longingly look at photos of Anthropologie visits on blogs can join in the fun!
Kates last blog post: Teacup hijack
January 14th, 2009 at 12:08 pm
Count me in!!! I would LOVE to go to an Anthropologie craft class. Sa-weet! Please do tell if you hear anything more about these!
Jersey Girl in DCs last blog post: COLORING: Mellow Yellow
January 14th, 2009 at 12:16 pm
*sigh* I would loooooooove if they happened to do one of these at the Nashville anthropologie. Too many of Nashville’s crafters are hidden.
January 14th, 2009 at 12:24 pm
Holly, I just wanted to write and say I LOVE YOUR SITE!
Thanks,
Arlene :)
January 14th, 2009 at 12:49 pm
Ohmigosh, that would be incredible… and I would totally be seeing you in the Boston store! I’ll definitely have to keep my eyes and ears peeled for this, but I’m sure you’ll have the insider knowledge before we do :-) Thanks!
Staceys last blog post: Bang-Up Job
January 14th, 2009 at 12:52 pm
IN A HEARTBEAT! Sadly, in Canada, we do not HAVE Anthropologie, so I hae to save up and binge every time I go to the States.
January 14th, 2009 at 1:25 pm
Absolutely - sign me up! Maybe we should start a petition or a letter? :)
Tabitha (From Single to Married)s last blog post: Getting Pregnant: The Time Is Nigh At Hand
January 14th, 2009 at 1:49 pm
omfg! soooo excited about this, hopefully my local store is having the classes!!!!! :)
Ashley Roses last blog post: Welcome
January 14th, 2009 at 1:51 pm
Yup, you heard right! I got an email from Anthro about this before the holidays - it was a sweater craft class: you were supposed to bring in an old sweater & they would help you alter & embellish it to make it a whole new kind of fabulous. I was totally bummed I couldn’t make it! I’m racking my brain trying to remember which Anthro was hosting it…I think it was either the one in Chestnut Hill, MA, or the one in the Natick Mall (also MA). Please let us know if you hear of any more happening! I would LOVE to go to one!
Lauras last blog post: New: Shop Global Mama!
January 14th, 2009 at 1:58 pm
I didn’t know and I totally care! Please get the scoop for us! :>
Elizabeths last blog post: Rest.
January 14th, 2009 at 2:16 pm
What an excellent find! I would definitely attend an Anthropologie crafting class. The closest store to me is 2 hours away (I’d have to visit my mom for a weekend) and it’s in Woodmere (?) OH. I’d attend for a non-clothing crafting project. I’d love to get some insights into how they come up with those amazing “nature” displays. They are beautiful.
January 14th, 2009 at 2:43 pm
I hope they’ll hold a class at any of the locations in San Diego! The further south, the better, but I’ll drive if I have to. Please spill the beans as soon as you hear more about it!
Annadys last blog post: Lovely Support Group
January 14th, 2009 at 2:59 pm
I would totally go to one! And I’m all for any of the locations in Eastern MA…except probably the downtown one…too annoying to park/get to. Of course, since Natick is like 5 mins from me, that would be my first choice. :-)
January 14th, 2009 at 3:05 pm
Hi Megan - Wow, you live near Natick? Small world! My hair stylist (and BFF) works in the Natick Mall at Dellaria. She is my girl for the best color in MA!
January 14th, 2009 at 3:14 pm
I would all over that! Hope they have them here in St. Louis.
Melissas last blog post: Some New Pretties!
January 14th, 2009 at 4:40 pm
Anthropologie Craft Classes! Sounds amazing! If the Seattle store has one- I AM THERE!
Rachels last blog post: One person’s junk is another person’s…
January 14th, 2009 at 4:52 pm
Would totally love that. Any classes in Dallas, Tx?
January 14th, 2009 at 6:14 pm
If they have classes in Burlington, I’ll meet you there! They always have the most amazing in-store displays, I’d love to get a piece of that inspiration.
January 14th, 2009 at 6:51 pm
I’m all over that! I wonder what kind of teachers they are going to have? People from corporate, local crafters or more “names” like Traci Bautista? I’m there!
January 14th, 2009 at 7:03 pm
Well, I work for Anthropologie so I will check and see what I can find out. I have a feeling it would be a VERY select few stores.
They probably will not offer the classes to just anyone. You’ll probably need to sign up for their Anthro program and you’ll receive an email about it. You can only sign up for Anthro in the stores currently.
-chelsey
Chelseys last blog post: What should I buy myself for my Birthday? Part II
January 14th, 2009 at 8:19 pm
I also received the email before the holidays, and I think it was a ’special email’ connected to signing up for the Anthro card (which Chelsey spoke about, which is not a credit card, but a program to receive preview info, etc.).
Only select stores participated in the craft classes (and surprisingly not the Philadelphia store, even though Anthropologie is headquartered there).
I used to work for Anthro corporate though, so I will definitely pass along the great interest Decor 8 readers have in the classes. :)
January 14th, 2009 at 8:45 pm
This post was the best thing I read online today (and rivals the Orla Kiely for Target news I read yesterday)! I immediately called the Anthropologie in Rockefeller Center in NYC (it’s IMMENSE and I figured if anyone would have it, they would). I spoke to a manager who said they don’t have any craft classes at any of the NY stores, and that she came from a store in Houston and they had a craft class there a few weeks ago.
Kates last blog post: Feathered Wooden Bangle
January 14th, 2009 at 8:47 pm
Does the budget fashionista consider Anthro a budget store? For me its 100% a budget breaker!
January 14th, 2009 at 8:50 pm
Sadly, there is no Anthro within driving distance, but if I still lived in Phoenix I would most definately participate in such an event. That store gives me so much motivation, I can’t even imagine what I could create while IN it!! My heart skipped a beat when I read about this opportunity. Hopefully we’ll be near one by the end of the summer. Fingers crossed.
January 14th, 2009 at 9:43 pm
That would be flippin’ sweet! I would love to make something like fun tea towels, pillow covers, or maybe some funky wall art. There are two stores in Scottsdale, AZ and I would love it if one of them held classes!
January 15th, 2009 at 10:27 am
heck yes I would.
Anna
Lasso the Moons last blog post: Resolution update
January 15th, 2009 at 10:53 am
Any excuse to spend more time at Anthropologie is alright by me!
January 15th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
I would attend for sure!
Trying to get a position at Free People in LA. Have not heard anything back??? Anyone have any tips on getting in the door with them?
January 15th, 2009 at 2:13 pm
Yes, yes. Please. Although I doubt I have a chance in SLC.
Mauras last blog post: Its Time to Celebrate!
January 15th, 2009 at 2:38 pm
I LOVE Anthropologie! I am not too thrilled with the whole “make old sweater pretty again” idea, but if they held other classes here in NYC I would definitely attend! I have been looking for crafty classes, if anyone has any ideas, please share!!
domesticinnycs last blog post: Latest obsession
January 15th, 2009 at 9:43 pm
Here’s the scoop:
So, the craft classes are TRUE. They were so small and unadvertised that even the employees of my store did not know there was a “Create your Own Ornament” class at the downtown Portland store in December (the stores are about 20 minutes apart).
You will need to sign up for the Anthro Card (not a credit card, but a customer appreciation card).
An email will be sent out to you if there is a class. Anthro flew in one of the hardware designers and one of the clothing designers to the Portland store for the class. I guess it was a great class. I’m so sad our store didn’t even here about it…
I am so in on the next one! Feel free to ask your local Anthro store to make sure there isn’t one coming up soon!
-chelsey
Chelseys last blog post: Redecorate me!
January 16th, 2009 at 10:59 am
I would love to attend! however, I live hours from a store, it wouldn’t work for me. I’ll have to stick to being inspired by the newsletter, website, and my occasional visits to the store while in civilization.
I’ve started to do some embroidery, somewhat in the hopes of mimicking some anthro-style on my own. Inspired by some snowflakes I saw in a store last year, I made paper snowflakes out of magazine pages and sewed them together to make a sort of garland to hang from the ceiling.
Kudos to Anthro for connecting with their audience/customers in a more innovative way!
January 17th, 2009 at 5:16 pm
Of course I would go, given I can afford extras like that, who knows what next week’s paycheck will say about it.
A few years ago I saw these long sheets of white paper hanging in their windows with these beautiful large brown fern-like designs. I asked the girl about them and she said they burnt it with and iron and spray-vinegar or something. I’ve always wanted to try it.
January 18th, 2009 at 8:49 am
Their window designs are always so cool. The materials are usually simple, re-purposed, everyday stuff.
If that same creativity went into their craft classes, that would put them in a whole new league as far as I’m concerned.
Smart!
I’d guess they’d be a big success.
xo Nancy
Nancy Tobins last blog post: Tickle I - Valentine - 8 x 10 Inch Archival Print
January 19th, 2009 at 7:54 pm
A very fun idea! I go to some stamping and craft classes at a fabulous store in Westford, MA. And I would definitely go to the Anthropologie store in Burlington, MA.
Amishas last blog post: Hardy Boys
January 20th, 2009 at 1:20 pm
I love Anthropology!! I would love any aspect of the craft classes, and I would definitely attend!
Bring it to St. Louis Galleria! :-)
January 21st, 2009 at 12:09 am
Absolutely, yes.
January 23rd, 2009 at 3:38 pm
I think my heart just stopped. Too bad there’s no anthropologie store in Sacramento :(
January 23rd, 2009 at 4:11 pm
Amanda, do you not know about the Anthropologie at the Fountains in Roseville?? It’s practically Sacramento :)
Rebeccas last blog post: On the Subject of Color
January 23rd, 2009 at 11:38 pm
Oh yeah - COUNT. ME. IN! My local Anthro’s holiday windows inspired my own home’s (paper snowflakes!) holiday decor this year. I’m calling my store tomorrow to get the scoop.
Condo Bluess last blog post: Pet ‘n Shape Natural Catch Dog Treat Review
January 26th, 2009 at 12:56 pm
ooooh, i’m going to find out if my anthro will be a part of this. i’m so lucky that my local store is only a five minute drive away. which means i spend too much time and money in there!! thank goodness for those fab sales!
January 28th, 2009 at 1:32 pm
HERE IS THE RESPONSE I RECEIVED - very quickly i might add!
Thank you for writing. We did host several of these events in December across the country. Unfortunately Women’s Wear Daily and some blogs/websites mistakenly reported that these would be offered on an ongoing basis and the misinformation seems to be spreading virally. We are however so pleased that there has been so much interest in more events. Although we do not currently have any planned, we hope to be able to host some in April for Earth Day.
If you have not already, please make sure that you join our anthro loyalty program at your nearest store as these events are generally exclusive to anthro members. Also be sure to indicate on your enrollment form that you can be contacted by email or by mail as the invitations will be sent through either depending on the intended size of the event.
January 28th, 2009 at 1:39 pm
Thanks for that response from Anthro, Suzanne. :) I didn’t get that one, I was just told that yes, stores have them from time to time and to check my local Anthro but that nothing was scheduled formally, it was mostly based on the store.
February 6th, 2009 at 5:37 pm
Holy Cow!!! Yes, yes and yes. We have 2 close by so, I’m keeping my fingers crossed:)
Becky Strahles last blog post: hunt & gather
February 19th, 2009 at 6:11 pm
this would be SO GREAT! I’m gonna go join!