Something in the Air  – 90-minute workshop on the very basics of making mobiles with Danis Collett

Years ago, I took a class at Creative Arts in mobile-making. I thought my head would fall off trying to figure out how to approach making the gigantic mobile I had planned — even though the excellent teacher explained it to me over and over. I shooed her away and stood staring at my many little pieces until … AHA!

But we don’t have all week, so I will divulge the simple yet essential AHA info. And will teach a thing or two about how to plan a tiny mobile and at least one good way to balance and attach the parts. Then, when you make your next, possibly huge mobile, you’ll have the basic concepts to barge ahead — with great patience.

You might have a theme in mind, or your first mobile might be titled, “Whatever.” You may bring several 3-inch or so, light-weight items that can be easily pierced or tied. Not rocks. Plastic mini figurines, cloth bits, dog tags, photos — anything you’d enjoy dangling in the air. I’ll have papers you can cut into abstract shapes to hang. The pieces we’ll be balancing can vary a little in size and weight. We’ll use what works. Your mobile will end up fitting in a manila envelope.

I will supply wood skewers for rods, wire, and various other parts you’ll need. If you have scissors, needle-nose pliers (round and flat), small wire cutters, etc, bring those. If not, no worries, we’ll have some on hand. This will be concentrated fun!