Join us the second Wednesday of each month in Central School (103 S. Maple St., Mount Prospect) from 7:00 to 9:00 pm! All classes are $10 per person and beginner-friendly – we encourage anyone who is interested to join!
Upcoming class topics will be posted throughout the year so be sure to check back regularly for updated information!
Handmade for the Holidays – REGISTER HERE
Join Bessie’s Workbasket in the historic schoolhouse for a cozy evening of holiday crafting and camaraderie. We’ll create charming gift pockets, craft a few small ornaments, and prepare sweet treats to take home, wrapped and decorated with care. Just like in generations past, it’s all about adding a personal touch and sharing the joy of the season.
•7:00 pm at Central School, 103 S Maple St. Mount Prospect
•Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Create Your Own Journal – REGISTER HERE
Enjoy a relaxing, hands-on session of Bessie’s Workbasket as we create beautiful handmade journals from simple materials. You’ll learn basic bookbinding techniques, discover creative ways to personalize your cover, and leave with a one-of-a-kind journal that reflects your own style. Perfect for recording thoughts, memories, or creative ideas—no experience needed, just your imagination!
•7:00 pm at Central School, 103 S Maple St. Mount Prospect
•Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Personal Purse/Pocket Pals – REGISTER HERE
Create your own Pocket Pal—a tiny, hand-stitched keepsake meant to bring comfort, luck, or a smile whenever you need it. Using simple stitches and colorful felt, you’ll personalize your piece with your initials, a favorite symbol, or a lucky number—and even tuck a small heart inside for an extra touch of warmth. Whether made for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, your Pocket Pal will be a reminder of kindness, creativity, and care you can carry with you.
•7:00 pm at Central School, 103 S Maple St. Mount Prospect
•Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Past Events
Gift Wrapping Ideas
Wrap up the year—or any occasion—with a little extra flair! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn creative and charming ways to elevate your gift wrapping using paper, stamps, and ribbon. Bring a small box to practice on, and we’ll provide the rest. Whether you’re preparing for the holidays, a birthday, or just love making presents feel extra special, this class will help you add that perfect personal touch. Come get inspired and walk away with beautiful ideas that are sure to impress!
· 7:00pm at Central School, 103 S Maple St. Mount Prospect
· Wednesday, November 12, 2025
Knit a Washcloth
Join us for a cozy and creative evening as part of our Bessie’s Workbasket series! In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll learn the fundamentals of knitting by creating a simple, practical project—a classic knit washcloth. Whether you’re brand new to knitting or just a bit rusty, this is the perfect opportunity to get started. Washcloths make thoughtful, handmade gifts… though don’t be surprised if you end up keeping your first few for yourself! *Yarn and knitting needles will be supplied*
· 7:00pm at Central School, 103 S Maple St. Mount Prospect
· Wednesday, October 8th, 2025
Creative Lettering, Calligraphy, and Tangles
This month, Bessie’s Workbasket explores the art of beautiful writing and relaxing doodles in this hands-on workshop. Whether you’re a beginner or just looking to unwind creatively, this session offers a fun introduction to calligraphy, decorative lettering, and tangle-inspired designs. All materials provided – just bring your imagination!
· 7:00pm at Central School, 103 S Maple St. Mount Prospect
· Wednesday, September 10th, 2025
Pop-Up Cards
Imagine the look on your friend’s face when they open a card and the design leaps out! We’ll go step-by-step to create fun designs.
· 7:00pm at Central School, 103 S Maple St. Mount Prospect
· Wednesday, June 11th, 2025
Quilling
Quilling, aka paper-rolling, or paper scrolling – has a long and interesting history. The origins of quilling are not recorded, but some think it began with the invention of paper, in China in 105 AD or in Egypt, where some tombs have been found to contain wire shapes similar in appearance to modern quilling.
In this class, you will learn how to make a flower by quilling. You will make the basic shapes to determine an item or stand-along masterpiece.
· 7:00pm at Central School, 103 S Maple St. Mount Prospect
· Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Planters
Make a planter/hanger for your spring plants. If you have a large empty tin can, bring it! We will have some that you can decorate.
· 7:00pm at Central School, 103 S Maple St. Mount Prospect
· Wednesday, May 14th, 2025
