2025-12-06 – Introduction to Himmeli (Online)
Schedule:
Two Saturdays, December 6 and 13 (10:00 am-Noon CT)
Instructor:
Mary Erickson
Location:
This is an online class hosted on Zoom.
Himmeli-making is a Nordic tradition brought to the U.S. by immigrants from Nordic and European countries. Traditionally hung above a table or dining area, these geometric straw mobiles are a Christmas tradition with a link to old folk farming beliefs for ensuring a bountiful harvest.
Students will gain experience working with natural material (straw) as they construct a medium sized himmeli mobile. Focus will also be on the cultural and historic significance of this craft found in Finland, Norway, Sweden, the Baltic countries, and beyond.
Level of Instruction:
No experience needed.
Supplies:
A kit of materials including natural rye or wheat straw, thread, Bead Smith big eye 5" needle, beads for decoration, and red embroidery thread is included in the price of the class ($50 in value).
If you are registering for this class in a location outside the United States, you will need to provide your own supplies. Please contact folkartschool@vesterheim.org when you register for more information about what materials are required for this class.
Additional Supplies:
Students will need to provide a computer, laptop, or tablet with a camera and mic as well as a fast, reliable internet connection.
Special Instructions:
When registering for the class, please make sure to use the mailing and email addresses you'd like the Zoom meeting invitations sent to. You will receive links to the Zoom sessions by email sometime during the week prior to the class. If this class is a gift, please sign up with the recipient's mailing and email addresses or be prepared to forward the kit and all communications.
Enrollment Deadline:
November 22, 2025
Click here to learn more about instructor Mary Erickson.
Vesterheim’s 2025 online programming is supported in part by a generous gift to the Vesterheim Annual Fund from Sons of Norway - Noreg Lodge 3-466.
This program is supported in part by the Reverend Glenn and Mary Borreson Endowment for Woodworking Education