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Class & Workshop Policies

I live & work in central MA but I am happy to travel to teach. I have taught classes for over 25 years and I have worked in arts education administration.  I have learned that having & communicating clear expectations makes everything easier for everyone.  Please do not hesitate to contact me with questions. 

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General Infomation

  • I currently teach at New England Botanic Garden in Boylston, MA.  Please feel free to check out their website for current offerings. I prioritize these classes.

  • Private workshops are available.  I am happy to travel to teach but travel fees may apply. Let's discuss it!

  • Private Workshops vs Not-For-Profit Institutions:  The classes listed are private workshops.  Public Institutions have resources that private individuals do not, such as having established classrooms, contracts, and advertising, therefore prices for these institutions may be negotiable. Contact me and let's talk about it.

  • Cost are based on my years of experience, the cost of materials, an hourly payrate, maximum number of students in a class, & the ongoing cost of maintaining equipment.​ Please note that fewer students does not always mean a lower price.​

    • A non-refundable deposit is due at the time of the contact, and the balance is due at the end of the workshop.  The deposit is used to purchase the supplies for the class.​

    • Payment is made through Paypal or check.

  • Material & supplies are included in the price of the workshop.  You can request a complete list of supplies & materials when you reach out.  I reserve the right to make substitutions of equal or grater quality at any point.  I do not believe in skimping on materials.  

  • Modifications to a proposed class: You are welcome to contact me to discuss your ideas.  I can & do modify classes regularly. Modifications can include changes to the subjects covered, the student supplies, number of students, changes based on available classrooms, & so on.

  • Number of students: 10 to 12 students is usually the maximum size for my classes because of the detailed attention I provide.  If you have a larger group please contact me & we can discuss how to accommodate you.  Please note that prices may increase for larger groups. Please note that fewer students does not always mean a lower price.​

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What you can expect from your teacher

  • Clear & prompt communication

  • A clear set of expectations for you, the students, & the teacher specific to the class.  This will include, but is not limited to, a contract & waivers.

  • Arrival on 30-60 minuets early for set-up

  • I will bring the all needed equipment & supplies unless we have agreed in writing to other arrangements.

  • A welcoming and fun class experience. 

  • I do my best to adapt to the students individual needs & learning styles during the class.  This may alter how information is presented & the pacing of  the class. 

  • That the class will begin & end on time.

  • Cleaning up during & after the class.  My policy is to "leave it as I found it or better"

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What I expect from the host

  • Clear communication with me concerning the following:

    • what class you are interested in & any modifications to the class you are requesting

    • the date, time, & location of the proposed class​

    • the room's amenities (tables, chairs, is this a space we can be messy in?)

    • the total number of students you are proposing (ages 16+)

    • provide ways to connect with you such as phone and email

    • any special requests or other important information such as specific student needs

  • Prompt signature of contracts 

  • Prompt payment per the terms of the contract.

  • If the class is being held in your private residence, read & sign a waiver for home owners liability.  While I do carry insurance I would like extra protections in the unlikely case a dye pot gets spilled on your floors and stains them for example.

  • As host you are the liaison between teacher and students

    • You are responsible for finding and recruiting students unless we agree in writing to other arrangements. 

  • A clean & prepared space for the workshop

  • Access for the teacher & guests to use a restroom

  • If possible & needed, helping to advertise the class on social media.

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What I expect from students

  • Students must be 16 years or older

  • Students under the age of 18 must have a legal guardian present if the class is working with chemicals and/or hot liquids (usually dyeing and eco-printing classes).  The adult guardian does not need to take the class. The guardian must be legally able to sign any waivers needed for the classes.  Please feel free to contact me.

  • If dividing the cost of the class between students, paying your host on time for your portion of the class

  • Arrive on-time

  • If there is a waver to sign, do so.  This pertains to classes that work with hot liquids or steam, chemicals, or sharp objects.

  • Provide your own drinks, snacks, & food unless other arrangements have been made.

  • Be ready to learn & enjoy the process as much as the finished item.

  • Don't give up

  • Clear communication. If you are having trouble, need assistance, or have questions, please let me know.  I always try to accommodate your needs but I can't help if I don't know.

  • If the class requires you to bring supplies (most won't) then bring them. A few examples are:

    • if you need magnification for an embroidery class please bring your own. 

    • left handed scissors

    • mobility aids such as special scissors 

  • Wear appropriate clothes to class, especially to messy classes.

  • If we are holding class outside come with appropriate garments and/or sunscreen.

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Contracts 

  • More Information Coming Soon

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Insurance 

  • More Information Coming Soon

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Copyright - 2025 Liz Ives

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