Classes & Workshops Artisan Workshop Series

CANCELLED | Artisan Workshop: Make a Ditty Bag

April 8, 2023 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

April 8, 2023 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Museum of the American Revolution
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A canvas ditty bag with a fid, sewing needles, and a thimble.

This workshop has been cancelled.

Join us for this one-day, in-person workshop to learn “plain sewing” to create a Revolutionary sailor’s linen ditty bag, similar to a modern tote bag. Museum staff will discuss the history of sailmaking and sailors’ bags, inspired by our special exhibition, Black Founders: The Forten Family of Philadelphia, and offer instruction on basic hand-sewing. Visit a recreation of James Forten’s sail loft and use historical tools and techniques to complete a ditty bag to take home. This is a beginner workshop and no previous sewing experience is required.

This workshop includes a break for lunch participants are welcome to bring their own lunch or purchase lunch upon arrival.

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A father holds his child as they look at the Forten family tree in the Museum's Black Founders exhibit.

Exhibits

Black Founders: The Forten Family of Philadelphia

February 11 - November 26, 2023

Black Founders: The Forten Family of Philadelphia explored the story of James Forten and his descendants as they navigated the American Revolution and cross-racial relationships in Philadelphia to later become leaders in the abolition movement in the lead-up to the Civil War.

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Image 121120 Artisan Workshop Series Sewing Dsc 1128

Classes on the American Revolution

Learn more about classes offered by the Museum, including five-week AmRev Seminar courses and hands-on Artisan Workshops.

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