Places to learn arts and crafts in Cape Girardeau

Ever find yourself saying, "I wish I had a talent," or "I'm terrible with arts and crafts?" Wish no more. Whether you're just beginning or a little more advanced, several Cape Girardeau shops provide opportunities to flex your creative muscles.

__Creative Ewe Pottery__

Stop by Creative Ewe Pottery, 1912 Independence St. in Cape Girardeau, to pick out a piece of pottery and paint it however you like. The shop has everything from dinnerware to decorative figurines, and the price includes the pottery, paint and baking in the kiln. Creative Ewe is open Tuesday through Saturday; call 573-335-0018 for more information.

__Sloan & Themis__

Sloan & Themis, a new shop at 31C N. Main St. in Cape Girardeau, sells vintage jewelry and pieces made by local artists, as well as supplies for making your own jewelry. Owner Claire Bruce teaches weekly jewelry making classes for beginners and advanced-level crafters. Sloan & Themis is open all day Friday through Sunday, and Bruce says folks can stop by anytime to work on their projects and ask questions about the craft.

__Hobby Lobby__

Hobby Lobby is the go-to spot for crafters of all types, but the store also hosts a variety of classes and workshops. Oil painting, cake decorating, and jewelry and cardmaking are just a few workshops on the schedule for this summer. Visit www.hobbylobby.com and click on "Store Finder" to see a calendar of events at Hobby Lobby stores. You can also call the Cape Girardeau store at 573-339-9305.

__Arts Council__

The Arts Council of Southeast Missouri, long known for showcasing local artwork, is also a venue for aspiring artists. A drawing group meets at the arts council, 32 N. Main St. in Cape Girardeau, at 7 p.m. on Wednesday nights. Educational seminars and workshops in painting and other art techniques are held throughout the year. View upcoming events at www.capearts.org or call 573-334-9233.

__Golden Needle__

If sewing is your craft of choice, The Golden Needle has you covered. The store on South Kingshighway in Cape Girardeau offers classes in sewing, embroidery, handbags and totes, quilts, and other monthly projects and sewing clubs. Visit www.thegoldenneedleinc.com for a course calendar, or call the store at 573-339-0494.

__Bloom__

Bloom Studio & Gifts hosts "paint parties" and other craft nights at its store on Broadway in Cape Girardeau. Michaelyn Ross and Brandi Ritter lead two-hour classes for children and adults, usually accommodating eight to 12 people. All craft supplies are provided, and guests are welcome to bring food and drinks. "Ladies love to come for a girl's night out and many have said it's really relaxing, too," says Ross. "Plus, everyone leaves with a unique finished piece of art." Find Bloom on Facebook to stay on top of upcoming classes, or call the store at 573-332-0723.

__Cape Girardeau Public Library__

The library has a full calendar all year long, including art workshops and informational seminars. On June 23, a textile appraiser for the Antiques Roadshow will be at the library to discuss what appraisers look for and answer any questions relating to quilts. On July 12, Cape Girardeau photographer Tom Neumeyer will share tips on nighttime photography at the River Campus. For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit www.capelibrary.org or call 573-334-5279.

__Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center__

Bet you didn't know the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center has an artsy side, too. Nature Art programs are held monthly, with upcoming projects including botanical drawing June 14 and June 23, nature scrapbooks July 19 and 21, paper beads Aug. 2 and corn husk flowers Sept. 6 and Sept. 22. All programs are free, but registration is required -- classes are usually limited to 15 or 20 participants who are at least 16 years old, says Nature Center manager Sara Turner. For more information or to register, call 573-290-5218 or visit mdc.mo.gov/regions/southeast/cape-girardeau-conservation-nature-center.

__See something you like?__

If you're interested in a craft, don't be afraid to ask how you can learn it. Plenty other shops and galleries, including the Crisp Museum at the River Campus and The Artist Studio in downtown Cape Girardeau, offer occasional workshops. The Arts Council of Southeast Missouri keeps a database of local artists and would be happy to connect you with someone in your area of interest.