Old Times 2026

Ullens world

A week in the world of wool: you have the opportunity to learn the basics of felting, from trying carding, felting, needle felting, and embroidery. You will also have the opportunity to spin the wool into yarn that you can then decorate your woven creations with. Those who have basic knowledge of felting have the opportunity to deepen their skills by felting in 3D or tackling another technique, such as trying needle felting, crochet, knitting, or other yarn techniques. If you have any unfinished work lying around, feel free to bring it along so we can complete the task; sometimes things just get stuck or you lose motivation, so bring what you have and we'll put our heads together to try and solve it. The tools are all there, the materials are available for purchase. Bring: a change of clothes and two large towels if you have any.
Leaders: Annica Myrén, Karlstad

Moulded embroidery

A course for those who enjoy textiles, color, and images and want to experiment and try something new.

We will primarily work with mud batik/African batik, or as it is also called mud reserve – a simple form where you only use mud and water and then paint on the fabric. There are endless possibilities here, playfulness and many different ways to explore the craft.
There will also be the opportunity to try printing with shapes found in our everyday life – vegetables, fruits, glass objects, smaller tools – basically anything that can create a pattern. There will also be the opportunity to work with printing on stencils. We will make fabric that can become images to hang on the wall, covers for pillows, accessories, purses, bags, cards, T-shirts. Sewing machines will be available.
Leaders: Kristina Frykberg, Karlstad

Twist a bag and a rattan headboard

Watercolor painting

Do you want to create art in collaboration with water and pigments? If you want to experience the magic and vibrant power of water, you can try watercolor techniques.
In this course, which is open to everyone, you will express your feelings in colors, learn about various interesting effects, the basics of color theory, composition, and air perspective. We will paint both indoors and outdoors and focus on:
-Limiting oneself to the simple, staying on time.
-Using water as a medium, experimenting with different additives to create exciting effects and textures.
-To convey light, atmosphere and presence.
LeadersOlga Karlsson

Wood knife and knife

In this course we work with wood in various ways. Fresh and dried wood for furniture. We work with the design process and the manufacturing process. We learn different techniques and when to use them and for what purpose. Here you have the opportunity to do what interests you. Maybe a carving board? A knife?
There isn't enough time to make your own knife blades, but you are welcome to purchase blades (at an additional cost and paid for via swish on site) if you don't have your own. We will make the cutting edges for the blades. If you have your own, please bring your own tools such as a cleaver, spoon knife, carving knife and axe. Otherwise, tools are available for loan.
A maximum of 8 participants can be accommodated in this group.

LeadersAlexander Bergström, Brunskog

Hot forging

Learn to forge in the traditional way using hammers and tongs. We start from the very basics and forge a pendant and hook. Then the participants can decide on the direction they want to take so that everyone can forge at the level they are comfortable with. In previous years, the projects have ranged from candleholders and hat pins to knife blades and pliers. Regular technical sessions are complemented by personal guidance in form, function and craftsmanship. Bring comfortable clothing made of natural materials. Other equipment is available, but if you have your own protective goggles, hearing protection, gloves, or tools, that is preferable.

LeadersGustav Thane Habo
www.konstsmedjan.se

Makramé for beginners

You will learn different types of knots and braids that are combined and varied in different ways to create macramé. You are introduced to the basics of macramé in a small group where joy, learning, and curiosity permeate the work.

LeadersIryna Sharova, Arvika

Every human being has a story to tell.

Write Your Story using paper. This is the course for you who have thought about writing yourself, but never dared or had the courage to do so. For you who want to tell your story to children and grandchildren. With all your senses, you can here recall your life, write down selected episodes, and share your story.
LeadersEva Tranefeldt

Family research

Dig through the archives and find your roots! We work with databases, parish registers and other sources. Bring your computer. Beginners and experienced are welcome.

Leaders: Hans Olsson, Forshaga

Emil & Ida

The children have their own morning gathering and activities when the parents are working on crafts. In the past, children made their own toys out of sticks and other things they found. We are trying to create things from things we find today, like toilet rolls, milk packages, or plastic toys. Bring some broken toys or other things that are no longer used, and we’ll see what we can make.

LeadersSophia and Elias Tranefeldt

Gardener

For those of you who can't find a suitable craft, but still want to experience the community at Gamla Tider. Instead, you make a contribution to the future of Sandvikengårdens. You can build a play equipment, repair the exercise paths, paint one of the houses, or clean up the gardens. Perhaps you'll be involved in the kitchen. You plan your work together with the staff of the farm.
You choose yourself what and how much you want to do. For participants in ”Gårdsfixare”, of course, there is no course fee, but the applicable help pension fee.