Waldorf Practical Arts Training
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    • Module 1 & 2
    • Module 3 & 4
    • Module 5 & 6
    • Module 7 & 8
    • Module 9
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Anthroposophy Studies:

In these modules we continue our previous studies and deepen our understanding of the the Threefold nature of the Human. In module #5 we study Core principle #3 "Developmental Curriculum" New books added to our study are "Practical Advice to Teachers" by Rudolf Steiner, "The Educational Tasks and Curriculum" by Martin Rawson and we begin a look at Rudolf Steiner's 6 Basic Exercises with the participants. In module # 6, we study Core Principle #4, "Freedom in Teaching". Rudolf Steiner’s “Philosophy of Freedom" is part of our study. We also continue study on the "6 Basic Exercises"

Hard Craft Studies

In module #5, we explore eighth grade curriculum. By this time, the students are able to follow a logical sequence of steps to building simple three and four legged stools. The use of the compass is put into action to lay out the location of the holes for the legs in a slab of wood. The wood is then formed into a circular or rectangular form using saws, gouges, planes and rasps. The holes for the legs are bored into the slab at the correct angle and layout. The legs are carved and rounded from squared off dimensional 8/4 lumber. Care needs to be taken so the leg fits into the hole that was bored for it. Finally, all the parts are assembled using a simple wedge driven into the end of each leg as it protrudes from the seat. The wedge combined with wood glue holds each leg firmly in place. The projects are then sanded to perfection before oil and wax are applied.
In module #6 participants are introduced to high school practical arts curriculum; basic metal smithing, working with iron, copper and silver. Emphasis is put on safety because the metal needs to be heated to high temperatures in order to make them malleable. Eye and ear protection is essential as well as a healthy respect for the forge and the torches. Simple iron implements such as decorative hooks are formed. In coppersmithing, simple vessels and bowls are formed using the three basic techniques of annealing, hollowing and planishing. The bowls are then polished to a high luster. For a second project, the same techniques are used to make ladles and spoons. If there is time and the participants want to pay for the precious metal, silver spoons can be made.

Soft Craft Studies:

Module #5

Children in 6th grade engage their imagination to express their feelings for and impressions, of their favorite animals. We focus on form and structure and turning the inside out, stuffing and shaping. Participants observe a simple animal, usually a mouse and create a 3-dimensional pattern they will use to construct their own toy mouse. The pattern is cut and sewn into a mouse using simple sewing. Finishing details may include wool needle felting, embroidery, painting or dyeing of fabric. The second project is a Waldorf style doll. Participants learn to bind a Waldorf style doll head, learn doll construction, and how to sew hair on.
Materials needed:
Fabric, lining, wool, stuffing, cotton jersey, embroidery floss, yarn, doll making needles, paper and pencil, boiled wool fabric, needles, threads, scissors, iron, ironing board

Module #6
Using the American patchwork technique, participants create a Log Cabin pillow cover from scraps of fabric. They carefully sort lights from darks and place them in a precise pattern to create an overall design. The goal is to foster precision in measurement and the angles in the pattern for 7th graders.
Materials needed:
Cotton fabric, needles, threads, scissors, iron, ironing board