Makerspace
The Makerspace is located in Center Hall
Inspired by Arthurdale’s history of handicraft and subsistence agriculture, the Makerspace gives festival goers a chance to get learn some new hands-on skills. We have a full lineup of West Virginia artisans teaching mini-workshops or giving hands-on demos throughout the day.
1pm-2pm | Fiber Arts Mini-Workshop
Learn how to spin wool using a drop spindle with Katie Donnelly!
Katie Donnelly is a Fashion Historian who has been fiddling with fiber arts for about 16 years. She predominantly sews, but also spins and weaves when her messy house lets her access her loom and spinning wheels. Katie has taught beginner spinning and weaving classes at Prickett’s Fort and Arthurdale Heritage.
2pm-3pm | Basketry Mini-Workshop
Learn about white-oak basket making with Andrea Brandon. She is apprenticed to Judy Van Gundy through the WV Folklife Apprenticeship Program.
Andrea Brandon is a traditional basket weaver based in Elkins, West Virginia, specializing in Appalachian white oak basketry. Her work honors the region’s rich cultural heritage by using locally harvested white oak and traditional techniques to create beautiful and functional baskets. Andrea is committed to preserving this sustainable art form, sharing her knowledge through demonstrations and community engagement, and exploring the connection between craft, place, and identity.
3pm-4pm | Garden Activity
Get creative with gardening with Ethan Wimer! The activity includes making a self-watering planter out of a recycled water bottle and painting plant markers.
Ethan is an Arthurdale native who received a bachelors in environmental sciences while attending West Virginia University.
While pursuing his degree, Ethan conducted and presented research on Acid Mine Drainage and Soil Compaction-issues common in West Virginia- and working with local organizations to clean the streams and trails in his home county.
4pm-5pm | Fiddle Repair Demo
Learn about fiddle repair with Katie McCoy. Katie McCoy has been playing fiddle for 25 years, and assorted other instruments picked up along the way. She has won contests, played in multiple bands, and teaches fiddle. Katie has been learning fiddle repair through an apprenticeship funded by the WV Folklife program.
She is enthralled by the work, learning each of the delicate technical jobs needed for each fiddle. She is passionate about building the old time community throughout the state.
5pm-6pm | Appalachian Candy-Making
Try your hand at Appalachian candy making with Chef KD Jones.
Chef KD Jones is a career chef and farmers market organizer from Campbells Creek West Virginia. It was in his younger years he fell in love with his grandmothers handmade candies. This is what inspired him to apprentice with his aunt Nancy Nelson through the WV Folklife Apprenticeship Program.
Historic Demonstrations
We love showcasing historic trades as we celebrate those who continue to learn and preserve these skills. While you’re having fun at the New Deal Festival, watch a demonstration or two and learn something new!
Blacksmithing
The Appalachian Blacksmith Association is back at the New Deal Festival for a Hammer-In at the Arthurdale Forge. The group features blacksmith craftsmen from across West Virginia. The Appalachian Blacksmith Association is a regional affiliate of the Artist Blacksmiths Association of North America.
Weaving & Spinning
There will be weaving, spinning, and fiber arts demos during the New Deal Festival. Don’t miss the opportunity to see a spinnings wheel and looms in action and to chat with West Virginia fiber artists about their work.
Other artisans will also be demonstrating their crafts at their tables.