Historic Savannah Foundation Announces Additional 2026 Artisan Spotlight Series Events, Including Indigo Dyeing, Leather Crafting, Line Dancing & Broom Making

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Historic Savannah Foundation (HSF) and the Davenport House Museum are pleased to announce additional hands-on, creative workshops as part of the 2026 Artisan Spotlight Series at the Historic Kennedy Pharmacy, located at 323 E. Broughton St. in Savannah, Ga. HSF’s Artisan Spotlight Series, which originally launched in 2024, offers engaging, immersive workshops, providing a dynamic platform for artists and artisans to share their creative processes with local residents and visitors.

“Through our latest Artisan Spotlight Series line-up, we aim to foster community and expose residents and visitors to diverse modes of creative expression, some of which date back to antiquity,” said Davenport House Museum Executive Director Danielle Hodes, who organizes the popular Artisan Spotlight Series. “From needle felting to line dancing and more, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy.”

In response to popular demand, the Artisan Spotlight Series will continue throughout 2026, featuring the following interactive workshops for all skill levels:

NEEDLE FELTING FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Saturday, June 27 | 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
$35/family (1 Adult/1 Child)
| Additional Child (Age 8+) $12
Celebrate the arrival of summer with a needle-felting workshop for attendees ages 8+ led by artist Lucy Brotmann. In this two-hour, beginner-friendly session, Lucy will guide participants through shaping and sculpting colorful wool fibers into delightful summer flowers. Explore essential felting techniques, experiment with vibrant materials and create a set of soft, sculptural blooms perfect for gifting or wearing. All materials are provided, and participants will leave with finished felted flowers and the skills to continue needle felting on their own.

INDIGO DYEING WORKSHOP

Saturday, July 18 | 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
$70/person | $65/person for HSF members

Discover the rich history and artistry of indigo dyeing in this hands-on workshop, which will begin with a brief exploration of indigo’s historical significance in Georgia, followed by an introduction to the unique properties of this remarkable natural dye and an explanation of basic indigo vat chemistry. Participants will have the opportunity to work with prepared indigo vats and will use a variety of resist techniques—including clamps, woodblocks, and tie methods—to create patterns on cotton scarves. Each participant will leave with a one-of-a-kind dyed scarf, along with detailed instructions for washing and finishing their piece at home.

LEARN TO LINE DANCE
Tuesdays from July 14 through Aug. 18 | 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Six weeks: $100/person | $90/person for HSF members

From a basic box step to a full-blown barn burner, it’s time to dust off your boots and bring some high-energy fun to the Davenport House Museum this summer! Enjoy an energetic, six-week line dancing series designed for all skill levels. Whether you have two left feet or are a seasoned pro, these 90-minute weekly sessions will have you moving, grooving and socializing. This series will culminate with a massive end-of-summer dance party on August 18, featuring dances learned throughout the six-week course!

LEATHER CRAFTING WORKSHOP

Saturday, Aug. 8 | 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
$65/person | $60/person for HSF members

Enjoy a hands-on introduction to leatherworking as you create your own custom belt from start to finish. This workshop will cover leather basics, including types of cuts, thickness and tanning, along with an overview of how to select and prepare leather for belt making. Participants will learn the full process, from cutting a strap from a hide to sizing, edging and finishing. Instruction will include the use of antique gels and protective top coats, as well as proper buckle attachment. Depending on time, participants may also have the opportunity to add light stamping or decorative details. Each participant will leave with a finished, functional leather belt and foundational leathercraft skills.

BROOM MAKING WORKSHOP

Saturday, Sept. 12 | 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
$55/person | $50/person for HSF members

Connect with tradition and creativity in this unique broom making workshop led by Julia Jarrett of Made by Venus Moon. Participants will learn the art of handcrafting their own miniature broom using natural materials and time-honored techniques. Julia will guide attendees through the process from start to finish, sharing insights into the cultural history and symbolism of broom making along the way. Each participant will leave with a completed handmade broom, offering a perfect blend of craftsmanship and intention. All materials will be provided. No prior experience is needed.

MANIFESTATION JAR WORKSHOP

Saturday, Oct. 3 | 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
$35/person | $30/person for HSF members

Join Kelley Boyd, owner of Ordinary Magic, for a creative, inspiring hands-on workshop at the Davenport House Museum. In this guided experience, you’ll craft your own personalized manifestation jar using a thoughtfully curated selection of herbs, crystals, charms and other meaningful elements. Whether you’re setting an intention for the season ahead or simply looking for a unique and reflective activity, this workshop offers a welcoming space to explore creativity, mindfulness and personal goal-setting. You’ll leave with a beautiful, one-of-a-kind keepsake as well as a renewed sense of focus and inspiration. No prior experience needed.

HOLIDAY WREATH DECORATING

Saturday, Dec. 5 | 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
$65/person | $55/person for HSF members

Get into the seasonal spirit with a hands-on Holiday Wreath Decorating Workshop at the Historic Kennedy Pharmacy! In this festive, beginner-friendly session, participants will receive a wreath as well as a variety of natural and decorative materials to customize each creation with their own personal flair. Whether you prefer classic elegance, rustic charm or bold and whimsical style, this workshop is a fun, relaxing way to kick off the holiday season.  

All tools and materials will be provided. No experience is necessary to participate in Historic Savannah Foundation’s Artisan Spotlight Series workshops. Space is limited, and advance registration is required. To register, please visit davenporthousemuseum.org/public-programs.

ABOUT HISTORIC SAVANNAH FOUNDATION:

Historic Savannah Foundation (HSF), a leading nonprofit cultural institution, saves the buildings, places and stories that define Savannah’s past, present and future. Founded in 1955 when seven brave women banded together to save the Isaiah Davenport House, Historic Savannah Foundation spearheaded the preservation movement in Savannah. The organization continues to preserve and operate The Davenport House Museum, sharing its important story with the community, and operates a Revolving Fund to save endangered historic properties, now totaling over 420 buildings throughout several of Savannah’s historic districts. Now in its 71st year, HSF continues to lead preservation efforts throughout the Savannah community. More info: myhsf.org.

ABOUT DAVENPORT HOUSE MUSEUM:

The Davenport House Museum is the historic 1820 Federal-style home and iconic Historic Savannah Foundation property that began the modern-day preservation movement in Savannah, Ga. In 1955, seven local women joined forces to save the Davenport House from demolition. Today, this award-winning house museum is dedicated to sharing the stories of master carpenter Isaiah Davenport, his family and the enslaved residents who lived in this home overlooking Columbia Square, showcasing period artifacts of life in Savannah from 1820 to 1827. Highlights include the award-winning Urban Enslaved Exhibit, which opened to the public in November 2023. Owned and operated by Historic Savannah Foundation, the Davenport House is the winner of the Preserve America Presidential Award — the highest national award honoring historic preservation achievement — and welcomes more than 40,000 visitors annually. More info: davenporthousemuseum.org.