Allerton Park & Retreat Center

Experience Level: Beginner (ages 13+)* 

Discover the art of textile sculpture in Hand Stitching – Hearts on Thursday, Sept. 24 from 12:30-4 p.m. in The Studio.  

In this hands-on workshop, Gaye Grant of 3 Penny Studio will teach students to create a charming 3-D heart brooch featuring a beautifully layered flower center. Along the way, participants will learn essential hand stitches and beginner-friendly soft sculpture techniques to bring their unique creation to life. 

$70/person**. Registration closes on Sept. 21 when capacity is reached. All sales are final.  

*Students 13-15 should have an adult present who does not need to register.
**Students should bring sharp scissors. 

Learn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations to participate, please email owarren@illinois.edu. 

By attending, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken. 

About the Instructor 

Gaye Grant is a textile, fiber and mixed media artist. After attending Illinois State University, she moved to New Mexico where she lived for over 25 years, making and selling quilted clothing and soft sculpture and performing in theatre. She eventually became a trained faux and decorative painter, which led her to the world of mixed media. In 2012, she came back to her C-U area roots and rediscovered her love of textile art and stitching.  

Grant is a member of the Craft League of Champaign-Urbana and the recipient of the 2025 Best of Show award at the Edwards Place Fine Art Fair. Her work can be found at Bohemia (Urbana, IL), area art shows and on Instagram @3pennystudio.