Mexican Tin Art and Clay Sculpting

We had a marvelous time creating Mexican Tin Art pieces while we learned a bit about the Mexican art culture. The pieces turned out very pretty, with lots of color, and beads. This is definitely a craft for older children through adults due to the sharp pieces, and the time it takes to complete the project. This would be an amazing craft for teens!

Our class on clay sculpture was a great success. The parents had as much fun as the kids working with artists clay, creating their masterpiece. Everyone learned a lot of clay vocabulary as well. They used tools and stamps to create wonderful pieces. Most of the parents asked if this was offered monthly, so it was very well received. A bright note for the library-no mess! One tiny scrap of clay to pick up off the floor. Yay!

Offering art classes is a bit tough for the libraries, because they don't want too big a mess, but it seems the art I'm offering works out great!

Such an amazing outlet for children as well as adults, art is so worth having at your library!

Sculpting with Clay

All ages are welcome to come join us on Saturday, November 12th at 3:00pm at the Newark Library as we take a chunk of clay, and create a masterpiece to take home. No prior experience with clay is neccessary. All tools will be provided, and the clay will air dry at home. Great opportunity to create a handmade gift as well.

Upcoming Programs

It's been pretty quiet this year. I do have 3 animal shows coming up soon-here are the details:

Tuesday, July 12th at 2pm at the Niles Library in Fremont, I will be bringing furry friends to visit. We will also be doing a simple craft.

Wed., July 27th at 3pm at the San Lorenzo Library, I will be bringing all the animals to visit the children.

Wed., August 3rd at 2pm at the Irvington Library, I will be bringing the reptiles to visit. You need a ticket for this event, so arrive at least a half an hour early to get a seat.

We have many new animals and reptiles. They are looking forward to seeing everyone as they love the attention!

Remember too, Christie's Critters also does birthday parties and other functions. Contact me for more information.

Christie's Critters New Friends

We have 2 new additions to Christie's Critters menagerie. An Albino Corn Snake, named Ruby, and a beautiful baby Netherlands Dwarf Bunny, who is yet to be named. We are taking a vote over at my Facebook Page to name this sweet creature.

My new kitten, Fiona was very interested in all of the animals today, as we got them ready for an assembly. Zoe, my seven year old cat thought she'd join us. (she's sitting on one of the boxes)

We are booking now for upcoming programs, birthday parties and visiting with the seasoned folks.

Sun Catchers and Tissue Paper Fish

The Summer Reading Game is in full swing, with the libraries offering many opportunities to enjoy performances and craft times. At the Niles library, the children enjoyed creating sun catchers. Many used the special paint, while others used sharpies to make their masterpieces. I loved the use of color and their imaginations! Librarian Sally amused us with her sea hat as well. At the Union City library, we made tissue paper fish. The children were excited to create their own fish. Some took only moments, others took awhile to finish. I enjoyed watching them use their creative minds and here are some of the results.

Upcoming Library Programs

The Summer Reading Game has started at your local library. I will be at the following libraries for the next few weeks doing an assortment of crafts. Every program is free, so come on out and enjoy an afternoon of creativity!

Sat., July 3rd Tissue Paper Fish 2pm Union City
Wed., July 7th Under the Sea Mobiles 2pm Irvington
Wed., July 14th Assortment of crafts 1 & 2:30 Dublin
Wed., July 21st Fish Catch Game 3pm Warm Springs Comm. Center
Thur., July 22nd Pinwheels 2pm Centerville
Wed., July 28th Assortment of crafts 2pm Fremont Main
Thurs., July 29th Tissue Paper Fish 2pm Albany

Wed., Aug 11th Japanese Fish Mobiles 3pm San Lorenzo
Mon., Aug 16th Sand Art 2pm Castro Valley

Go to www.aclibrary.org , click on branches and pick a branch to see if they have any requirements for you to attend.

Mother's Day Tote Bags

I so enjoy working with the seniors. They are happy to see me and I am delighted to reconnect and visit with each of them. Today, we made tote bags. I was thrilled to see the creativity flow. One woman made a gift for her granddaughter, the rest of the ladies made a tote for themselves. Each one was very different, and all were very colorful and beautiful. While we work on our projects we share stories and enjoy time together. I look forward to each and every visit!