Arts & Crafts
Explore a range of unique art forms in intergenerational one-day and series classes! Dole Center offers dedicated rooms with supplies and equipment for a range of mediums including ceramics, lapidary, weaving, stained glass, sewing, painting, and so much more. Work with our expert instructors to learn a new craft or hone your skills!
Point of Contact
Megan Ulczak
Explore Arts & Crafts
Whether you’re looking for a low-commitment, one time experience, or a full session of classes to hone a skillset, we’ve got something for everyone! The Park District of Oak Park offers both unique and traditional Arts & Crafts classes in one-day and series formats. Most of our art classes are intergenerational (ages 7+) allowing families the opportunity to play together and encouraging intergenerational engagement.
All Arts & Crafts Categories
View All Arts & Crafts ProgramsHappening This Week
- Dole Center Multipurpose Room 3 - Art Studio (3rd Floor)
- 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan.Ulczak@pdop.org 708-725-2106
No activity found
No sessions match the selected filter for this day.
PROGRAM DETAIL
Welcome to Painting & Drawing Open Studio. Sign up day by day when it works for you to use our space, tools, and help from our instructor to start and/or finish a project. In this class, you'll play with:
Getting Started / Breaking the Blank Canvas – strategies for beginning a painting and building momentum, including “rehearsing” ideas in a sketchbook
Composition & Visual Flow – organizing elements, movement, and balance, using sketchbooks to plan and evaluate what’s working
Color & Mood – exploring limited palettes, contrast, and emotional tone
Mark-Making & Texture – experimenting with tools, layers, materials, and surface
Developing vs. Knowing When to Stop – pushing a piece further versus recognizing when it’s resolved
Articulating Intent – talking through what a piece is about and receiving feedback
Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 4 - Weaving/Stained Glass (Basement)
- 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 2 - Ceramics (Basement)
- 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 4 - Weaving/Stained Glass (Basement)
- 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Multipurpose Room 3 - Art Studio (3rd Floor)
- 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Multipurpose Room 3 - Art Studio (3rd Floor)
- 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan.ulczak@pdop.org 708-725-2106
- Dole Center Studio 4 - Weaving/Stained Glass (Basement)
- 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 1 - Lapidary (Basement)
- 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: 708 725 2106 megan.ulczak@pdop.org
- Dole Center Multipurpose Room 3 - Art Studio (3rd Floor)
- 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan.ulczak@pdop.org 708-725-2106
No activity found
No sessions match the selected filter for this day.
PROGRAM DETAIL
Continue building your stained glass skills in a supportive, creative studio environment! This open studio class is designed for participants who have completed our First Timers Stained Glass or Beginner Stained Glass class and are ready to work more independently.
Participants will design and create their own stained glass projects while refining techniques such as pattern preparation, glass cutting, grinding, foiling, soldering, and finishing. An instructor will be on hand to provide guidance, troubleshoot challenges, and help you expand your skills, but students should be comfortable with basic stained glass tools and processes.
Materials Provided: All necessary tools and materials will be provided, including a variety of glass colors and textures. Participants are welcome to bring in their own glass and patterns if they wish.
Who Should Attend: This class is perfect for anyone interested in art and creativity, regardless of experience. Join a supportive community of fellow enthusiasts and discover the joy of working with stained glass!
Let your imagination shine through vibrant colors and intricate designs—register today and transform your artistic vision into reality!
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Come on in to finish pieces you worked on in our other classes like Family Ceramics, Youth Ceramics, Beginners Ceramics, Beginners' Wheel, and Partner Ceramics
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Continue building your stained glass skills in a supportive, creative studio environment! This open studio class is designed for participants who have completed our First Timers Stained Glass or Beginner Stained Glass class and are ready to work more independently.
Participants will design and create their own stained glass projects while refining techniques such as pattern preparation, glass cutting, grinding, foiling, soldering, and finishing. An instructor will be on hand to provide guidance, troubleshoot challenges, and help you expand your skills, but students should be comfortable with basic stained glass tools and processes.
Materials Provided: All necessary tools and materials will be provided, including a variety of glass colors and textures. Participants are welcome to bring in their own glass and patterns if they wish.
Who Should Attend: This class is perfect for anyone interested in art and creativity, regardless of experience. Join a supportive community of fellow enthusiasts and discover the joy of working with stained glass!
Let your imagination shine through vibrant colors and intricate designs—register today and transform your artistic vision into reality!
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Do you doodle? Do you love color? Need some extra Art classes in your life? Join our fun instructor and a group of other kiddos after school to draw and paint in our art studio at Dole Center!
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Explore the creative possibilities of collage in this relaxed art series! Each session features a new theme inspired by the time of year, using a wide variety of materials such as decorative papers, magazines, fabric, paint, stamps, natural elements, and found objects. Whether you're creating whimsical spring florals, vibrant summer landscapes, cozy autumn compositions, or festive winter designs, every class offers fresh inspiration and techniques to spark your creativity.
All supplies are provided, making it easy to jump in and create. Participants are also encouraged to bring their own favorite papers, photos, embellishments, or works-in-progress and use the class as an open studio to experiment, refine projects, and connect with fellow artists. Perfect for beginners and experienced makers alike, this series celebrates creativity, self-expression, and the joy of making art in a welcoming, supportive environment.
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Continue building your stained glass skills in a supportive, creative studio environment! This open studio class is designed for participants who have completed our First Timers Stained Glass or Beginner Stained Glass class and are ready to work more independently.
Participants will design and create their own stained glass projects while refining techniques such as pattern preparation, glass cutting, grinding, foiling, soldering, and finishing. An instructor will be on hand to provide guidance, troubleshoot challenges, and help you expand your skills, but students should be comfortable with basic stained glass tools and processes.
Materials Provided: All necessary tools and materials will be provided, including a variety of glass colors and textures. Participants are welcome to bring in their own glass and patterns if they wish.
Who Should Attend: This class is perfect for anyone interested in art and creativity, regardless of experience. Join a supportive community of fellow enthusiasts and discover the joy of working with stained glass!
Let your imagination shine through vibrant colors and intricate designs—register today and transform your artistic vision into reality!
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Come in to work on lapidary projects independently, with an instructor available to assist or answer questions. Space is limited, but you are welcome to bring projects from home or start fresh here. experience is preferred
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Discover the endless possibilities of mixed media in this creative art series! Each session explores a new theme based on the time of year and incorporates a variety of artistic materials and techniques, including acrylic paint, ink, collage, texture media, stamps, stencils, fabric, found objects, and more. Whether you're layering vibrant spring florals, capturing the colors of autumn, or creating winter-inspired works, every class offers fresh inspiration and opportunities to experiment.
All supplies are provided, so you can arrive ready to create. Participants are also welcome to bring their own favorite materials, unfinished projects, or specialty tools and use the class as an open studio to explore ideas, develop personal projects, and enjoy creating alongside fellow artists. This series is perfect for beginners and experienced artists looking to play, learn, and express themselves in a relaxed, supportive environment.
Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 4 - Weaving/Stained Glass (Basement)
- 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 4 - Weaving/Stained Glass (Basement)
- 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 4 - Weaving/Stained Glass (Basement)
- 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 2 - Ceramics (Basement)
- 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
- Dole Center Multipurpose Room 3 - Art Studio (3rd Floor)
- 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Multipurpose Room 2 - Classroom (3rd Floor)
- 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan.ulczak@pdop.org 708-725-2106
- Dole Center Multipurpose Room 3 - Art Studio (3rd Floor)
- 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak
No activity found
No sessions match the selected filter for this day.
PROGRAM DETAIL
Continue building your stained glass skills in a supportive, creative studio environment! This open studio class is designed for participants who have completed our First Timers Stained Glass or Beginner Stained Glass class and are ready to work more independently.
Participants will design and create their own stained glass projects while refining techniques such as pattern preparation, glass cutting, grinding, foiling, soldering, and finishing. An instructor will be on hand to provide guidance, troubleshoot challenges, and help you expand your skills, but students should be comfortable with basic stained glass tools and processes.
Materials Provided: All necessary tools and materials will be provided, including a variety of glass colors and textures. Participants are welcome to bring in their own glass and patterns if they wish.
Who Should Attend: This class is perfect for anyone interested in art and creativity, regardless of experience. Join a supportive community of fellow enthusiasts and discover the joy of working with stained glass!
Let your imagination shine through vibrant colors and intricate designs—register today and transform your artistic vision into reality!
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Continue building your stained glass skills in a supportive, creative studio environment! This open studio class is designed for participants who have completed our First Timers Stained Glass or Beginner Stained Glass class and are ready to work more independently.
Participants will design and create their own stained glass projects while refining techniques such as pattern preparation, glass cutting, grinding, foiling, soldering, and finishing. An instructor will be on hand to provide guidance, troubleshoot challenges, and help you expand your skills, but students should be comfortable with basic stained glass tools and processes.
Materials Provided: All necessary tools and materials will be provided, including a variety of glass colors and textures. Participants are welcome to bring in their own glass and patterns if they wish.
Who Should Attend: This class is perfect for anyone interested in art and creativity, regardless of experience. Join a supportive community of fellow enthusiasts and discover the joy of working with stained glass!
Let your imagination shine through vibrant colors and intricate designs—register today and transform your artistic vision into reality!
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Continue building your stained glass skills in a supportive, creative studio environment! This open studio class is designed for participants who have completed our First Timers Stained Glass or Beginner Stained Glass class and are ready to work more independently.
Participants will design and create their own stained glass projects while refining techniques such as pattern preparation, glass cutting, grinding, foiling, soldering, and finishing. An instructor will be on hand to provide guidance, troubleshoot challenges, and help you expand your skills, but students should be comfortable with basic stained glass tools and processes.
Materials Provided: All necessary tools and materials will be provided, including a variety of glass colors and textures. Participants are welcome to bring in their own glass and patterns if they wish.
Who Should Attend: This class is perfect for anyone interested in art and creativity, regardless of experience. Join a supportive community of fellow enthusiasts and discover the joy of working with stained glass!
Let your imagination shine through vibrant colors and intricate designs—register today and transform your artistic vision into reality!
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Come on in to finish pieces you worked on in our other classes like Family Ceramics, Youth Ceramics, Beginners Ceramics, Beginners' Wheel, and Partner Ceramics
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Learn the Japanese art of Shibori folding and dyeing. Learn the Arashi, Itajime, Kaneko, and Nemaki styles of folding/tying and two all-over patterns for two color dye processes. Use Procion fiber reactive dyes and make gorgeous fabrics each week that you can use to sew into garments or quilts, or dye all bandanas and T-shirts, your choice!
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
In this class we’ll explore ways of shaping lived experience into compelling stories. Each week we’ll discuss an element of craft, explore a new prompt, and engage in open discussion. We’ll also take a tour through the different ways your story can be told — poetry, fiction, memoir, family history, graphic novels, and more. This course is open to beginners as well as those actively working on pieces. Weekly handouts and readings will be provided.
Analeah Loschiavo is a writer living in Chicago. Some of her work can be found in Western Humanities Review, Cosmonauts Ave, FANZINE, Territory, and at analeah.com.
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Spend your evenings drawing & painting at Dole Center with professional support and guidance from a local artist and college instructor. Create distraction free with a group of others looking to create. Instruction is made for all and all skill levels are welcome.
Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 2 - Ceramics (Basement)
- 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 4 - Weaving/Stained Glass (Basement)
- 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 2 - Ceramics (Basement)
- 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 2 - Ceramics (Basement)
- 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 4 - Weaving/Stained Glass (Basement)
- 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak
No activity found
No sessions match the selected filter for this day.
PROGRAM DETAIL
This unique workshop invites pairs—friends, siblings, or parent-child duos—to explore the art of ceramics together. Over several sessions, you’ll learn essential techniques such as hand-building, sculpting, and wheel throwing, all while collaborating on fun projects.
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Continue building your stained glass skills in a supportive, creative studio environment! This open studio class is designed for participants who have completed our First Timers Stained Glass or Beginner Stained Glass class and are ready to work more independently.
Participants will design and create their own stained glass projects while refining techniques such as pattern preparation, glass cutting, grinding, foiling, soldering, and finishing. An instructor will be on hand to provide guidance, troubleshoot challenges, and help you expand your skills, but students should be comfortable with basic stained glass tools and processes.
Materials Provided: All necessary tools and materials will be provided, including a variety of glass colors and textures. Participants are welcome to bring in their own glass and patterns if they wish.
Who Should Attend: This class is perfect for anyone interested in art and creativity, regardless of experience. Join a supportive community of fellow enthusiasts and discover the joy of working with stained glass!
Let your imagination shine through vibrant colors and intricate designs—register today and transform your artistic vision into reality!
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Perfect for those new to pottery, this hands-on course introduces you to essential techniques like hand-building, wheel throwing, and glazing. With the guidance of our experienced instructors, you'll learn how to transform raw clay into beautiful functional, and decorative pieces.
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Come on in to finish pieces you worked on in our other classes like Family Ceramics, Youth Ceramics, Beginners Ceramics, Beginners' Wheel, and Partner Ceramics
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Continue building your stained glass skills in a supportive, creative studio environment! This open studio class is designed for participants who have completed our First Timers Stained Glass or Beginner Stained Glass class and are ready to work more independently.
Participants will design and create their own stained glass projects while refining techniques such as pattern preparation, glass cutting, grinding, foiling, soldering, and finishing. An instructor will be on hand to provide guidance, troubleshoot challenges, and help you expand your skills, but students should be comfortable with basic stained glass tools and processes.
Materials Provided: All necessary tools and materials will be provided, including a variety of glass colors and textures. Participants are welcome to bring in their own glass and patterns if they wish.
Who Should Attend: This class is perfect for anyone interested in art and creativity, regardless of experience. Join a supportive community of fellow enthusiasts and discover the joy of working with stained glass!
Let your imagination shine through vibrant colors and intricate designs—register today and transform your artistic vision into reality!
Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Multipurpose Room 3 - Art Studio (3rd Floor)
- 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak 708-725-2106 megan.ulczak@pdop.org
No activity found
No sessions match the selected filter for this day.
PROGRAM DETAIL
Introduction to Printmaking Techniques
Explore the colorful, hands-on world of printmaking designed for artists ages 7 and up! Students will be introduced to foundational printmaking techniques including block printing, monoprint, and screen printing. Through guided instruction and open creative time, students will explore their artistic voice in a supportive, engaging environment. All materials are provided, so artists need only bring their creativity and enthusiasm!
Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Multipurpose Room 3 - Art Studio (3rd Floor)
- 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: megan.ulczak@pdop.org 708 725 2106
- Dole Center Studio 4 - Weaving/Stained Glass (Basement)
- 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak
No activity found
No sessions match the selected filter for this day.
PROGRAM DETAIL
Celebrate the colors of the season in this creative mosaic art workshop! Participants will design and craft a unique mosaic piece using a wooden base, colorful glass tiles, and natural stone accents. Learn the basics of mosaic design, tile placement, and finishing techniques while creating a one-of-a-kind work of art to display at home. No experience is necessary; just bring your creativity and enjoy a relaxing, hands-on artistic experience. All materials are included.
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Continue building your stained glass skills in a supportive, creative studio environment! This open studio class is designed for participants who have completed our First Timers Stained Glass or Beginner Stained Glass class and are ready to work more independently.
Participants will design and create their own stained glass projects while refining techniques such as pattern preparation, glass cutting, grinding, foiling, soldering, and finishing. An instructor will be on hand to provide guidance, troubleshoot challenges, and help you expand your skills, but students should be comfortable with basic stained glass tools and processes.
Materials Provided: All necessary tools and materials will be provided, including a variety of glass colors and textures. Participants are welcome to bring in their own glass and patterns if they wish.
Who Should Attend: This class is perfect for anyone interested in art and creativity, regardless of experience. Join a supportive community of fellow enthusiasts and discover the joy of working with stained glass!
Let your imagination shine through vibrant colors and intricate designs—register today and transform your artistic vision into reality!
Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 4 - Weaving/Stained Glass (Basement)
- 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 2 - Ceramics (Basement)
- 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
-
Resource Person: Megan Ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 2 - Ceramics (Basement)
- 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
- Dole Center Studio 2 - Ceramics (Basement)
- 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
- Instructor: megan ulczak
No activity found
No sessions match the selected filter for this day.
PROGRAM DETAIL
Continue building your stained glass skills in a supportive, creative studio environment! This open studio class is designed for participants who have completed our First Timers Stained Glass or Beginner Stained Glass class and are ready to work more independently.
Participants will design and create their own stained glass projects while refining techniques such as pattern preparation, glass cutting, grinding, foiling, soldering, and finishing. An instructor will be on hand to provide guidance, troubleshoot challenges, and help you expand your skills, but students should be comfortable with basic stained glass tools and processes.
Materials Provided: All necessary tools and materials will be provided, including a variety of glass colors and textures. Participants are welcome to bring in their own glass and patterns if they wish.
Who Should Attend: This class is perfect for anyone interested in art and creativity, regardless of experience. Join a supportive community of fellow enthusiasts and discover the joy of working with stained glass!
Let your imagination shine through vibrant colors and intricate designs—register today and transform your artistic vision into reality!
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Play with clay! With hands-on projects, participants will learn essential techniques like hand-building and sculpting, allowing them to create unique functional and decorative pieces.
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Come on in to finish pieces you worked on in our other classes like Family Ceramics, Youth Ceramics, Beginners Ceramics, Beginners' Wheel, and Partner Ceramics
Megan Ulczak
PROGRAM DETAIL
Come on in to finish pieces you worked on in our other classes like Family Ceramics, Youth Ceramics, Beginners Ceramics, Beginners' Wheel, and Partner Ceramics
Megan Ulczak
Information & FAQs
FAQs
Yes. Each participant must be registered individually, but multiple household members can register during the same transaction.
Each class description lists the recommended age, skill level, and any prerequisites. If you’re unsure, our staff is happy to help you choose the best fit.
Absolutely! Many of our Arts & Crafts classes are designed specifically for beginners, while others are intended for intermediate or advanced participants.
Most of the time, YES! The program description will indicate whether supplies are included or if participants should bring their own materials.
Late registration may be possible if space is available and the instructor approves. Contact Megan Ulczak (opens email app) for assistance.
Missed classes generally cannot be made up unless specifically stated in the program information.
Yes. Arts & Crafts classes are offered throughout the year, with seasonal program guides highlighting current offerings.
Programs must meet minimum enrollment requirements. If enrollment is too low, participants will be notified before the class starts.
Absolutely! The Park District welcomes program suggestions and community feedback as part of its commitment to providing meaningful recreation experiences.
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