the loft collective
formerly little loft
small batch art experiences for toddlers to teens
We are born makers. We move what we’re learning from our heads to our hearts through our hands.
- Brené Brown, researcher, educator, public speaker
The Loft Collective is an art studio for children and families, located in Takoma Park, MD, just at the edge of Washington DC. Formerly Little Loft, the studio reopened in the fall of 2021, offering many of the same programs, as well as some new classes that focus on making as a conduit for making meaning and making connections. With an eye on public art and a diverse group of artists, we choose projects and stories that explore the power of art to amplify voices, shift mindsets, and impact change.
2024 Summer Camp: spaces in Crosswalk Club (gr 6-9) and K Camp (kindergarten only)
See camp page for details, and to sign up for our waitlists.
Classes
We have art programming for children ages 2-12. Classes run in 6-week sessions. If you have a maker at home, this is your place! Register on the CLASSES page.
Spring 2 Session: Apr 18-June 1 (no classes May 23-25)
Friday Clubs
New this year: after school Stitchers and Crafters clubs on Fridays for 9-12 year olds. 4:15-5:30. Seasonal sign ups.
Spring season: April 5 - June 7
NEW: Learn to Knit + Crochet
Learn to knit and crochet in a relaxed, supportive environment! Bring your own project or use our yarn stash. This is a drop-in session, so come in as often as you'd like, just sign up ahead for each time you come in.
Expert knitter/crocheter, Takoma teen, and former Little Loft stitcher Anna Mayer will show you the ropes!
Wednesdays, 6:30-8:00pm: Apr 10 + 24, May 1, 8, 15, 22 + 29 - come to any/all!
Ages 8-15
$12/class
Adult Classes
We’re pleased to offer two adults-only workshops per month! In this NEW THURSDAY adult maker series, we will offer workshops based in fiber, paper arts, mixed media and a variety of other artistries to tickle your neurons and help calm your inner crafter desires. A wonderful place to relax and learn new skills while reconnecting with friends, or meeting new people in your community. We are hoping to make the LOFT a space to be enjoyed by makers young and old(er).
Art Salon
Open to artists and non-artists alike, from professionals working in the field to anyone who doodles while talking on the phone. Artist, storyteller, librarian Dave Burbank leads a salon for creative souls looking for an opportunity to gather, sketch, create, and try new things. Prompts and suggestions and group participation encourage us each to learn new techniques and explore our own creativity. Art materials provided, but feel free to bring your own sketchbook and materials if you like.
Thurs April 18, 7:30-9:00, $25
Stitched Succulents
Enjoy making your own little teacup cactus garden using wool felt and needlework construction basics. We will explore a few different techniques to create the best "no-kill" plants. The perfect little something to adorn the low-light corners of your desk. Makers will receive pre-cut felt parts, a teacup/mug, needle, threads and notions. We will go over basic embroidery stitches and application techniques. Enjoy the meditative process of slow stitching. We will make sure you leave with the tools and skills to finish. NO experience necessary & best enjoyed with friends!
Thurs April 25, 7:30-9:00pm, $65
Mother’s Day Portraits
Get out from behind the camera, moms! This is your day to be in the frame, a chance for some high quality, candid, documentary style images of you with your kids. Make a gift in our art studio during your scheduled hour. Photos by Katie Jett Walls.
Sunday, May 12, 10:00-12:00 (photos only take a few minutes)
$110
Fee is for sitting and art studio time only. Prints and digital files available for purchase.
School Day Off Camps
Single day camps are open on Montgomery County and DCPS school days off, except for federal holidays. All day art for creative kids! 9:00-3:00, grades K-3.
New: Tinker Time for Toddlers!
Bring in your 1.5-3 year old on Wednesdays, 10-11:30 for open play in our sunlit studio! We’ll have stacking blocks, magnet tiles, a great selection of books, animal toys, light table and play dough area available, along with a rotating art activity to introduce new materials. There is no structured program, this is for drop-in play with a caregiver. Please pre-register (same day registration is fine if there’s space).
We look forward to seeing you! Please sign up below to stay in the loop.