Learning a new skill, or even wanting to hone one that’s already there, is never easy. It’s a daunting endeavor, and can become something of a nuisance if not met with patience and excitement. But sometimes that may not be enough; sometimes we need a helping hand and a little guidance to get us to where we want to go. If you’re someone that needs hands-on learning, there’s a place right here in Hampton just for you.

Located at 170 Estabrooks Road is a newly opened workshop owned by Renee Cuprak, whose skills range from felting to jewelry making, and who is looking to teach you whatever it is you wish to learn. Have you ever wanted to learn how to sew? Or try your hand at wood burning? Maybe even master the art of baking? Then here at the Rural Arts School you can learn the basics to it all, and at a reasonable price of just $5 for every visit (first visit free), you can finally begin learning something new.

Starting can be as simple as picking up one of the dozens of How-To books shelved in the living room, where you can sit and read for as long as you want. If you aren’t sure what it is exactly you wish to learn, don’t let that stop you from venturing out. There are plenty of options to choose from, and you can try each and every one until you find one you’re comfortable with.

In a lovely sun room just off to the side of the living room and kitchen is where classes in sewing and exercise will be held, as well as performances. The spacious room will hold sewing machines and repurposed church benches, as well as an antique card catalog for the various threads and needles. And it isn’t just the benches and card catalog that are recycled; it’s also the wood that will be used for pyrography. For the wood burning classes, the wood that will be used will be from left over casket making, which speaks to a lot of what Renee has going on here at her workshop: everything is recycled and repurposed. Nothing goes to waste.

In the kitchen area is where classes in cooking will be held. One-on-one learning is always the best way to learn something quickly, and if you’ve been meaning to enhance those baking skills, then this is your chance. If you’re looking for something more intricate, then down the hall and in a small sewing room is where you can sit and make jewelry, sew, and try scrimshaw. It’s important to note that the Tagua Nuts used for scrimming are eco-friendly, and though they look similar to ivory, they are simply a better alternative. And buying these nuts helps the environment tremendously since it prevents trees from being cut down. Scrimming is a wonderful art, and one that can be enjoyed immensely, but more so when you know the Tagua Nut you’re using saved a tree.

There’s a lot to learn here at the Rural Arts School, and a time spent gaining knowledge on a useful craft is never time spent poorly. If you’re serious about mastering a new skill, then be sure to stop by every Thursday for a chance to do exactly that. With tools already at your disposal, all you’ll have to do is show up and get started. Renee will be there to help you with whatever you need. Don’t miss out!

Suli Perez-Pagan