Education At Tumalo Fiber

Learn With Us

Our classes aren't about perfection—they're about building confidence, finding your community, and discovering the joy of making with your hands.

At Tumalo Fiber, we believe the best way to learn is around a table with other makers.

Some of our favorite conversations have started over a tangled skein, a dropped stitch, or someone asking, "Can you show me how you did that?" That's the kind of learning we love to foster—creative, collaborative, and rooted in community.

We're an eclectic group of makers who are passionate about sharing our love of making. Whether you're picking up your very first pair of knitting needles, learning to spin your own yarn, exploring weaving, processing fiber, or trying a brand-new fiber craft, our goal is to create an encouraging environment where everyone feels welcome. Questions are always encouraged, mistakes are simply part of the process, and every project—finished or not—is worth celebrating.

Most of our classes take place around the large community table at the center of our studio. It's where ideas are exchanged, friendships are made, projects are admired, and inspiration flows freely. Don't be surprised if someone shopping wanders over to admire your work—or if you leave class having made a few new fiber friends.

Meet Our Education Director

Our education program is led by Jess Kyle, whose enthusiasm for fiber arts is contagious. Jess is a knitter, crocheter, weaver, spinner, fiber processor, and lifelong maker. If there's a fiber craft to explore, chances are she's already tried it—or is eager to learn alongside you.

In a previous chapter of her life, Jess taught at the university level, where she developed a passion for creating engaging, confidence-building learning experiences. After taking time away to focus on her family, we're incredibly fortunate that she chose to bring her talents to Tumalo Fiber. Jess leads our education program, develops new classes, supports our instructors, and is always dreaming up new opportunities for our community to learn, create, and connect. To contact Jess you can e-mail her at education@tumalofiber.com

Our Philosophy

At Tumalo Fiber, we believe:

  • Everyone starts somewhere.
  • There is no "right" way to be a maker.
  • Learning should be encouraging, inclusive, and fun.
  • Handmade is about the journey just as much as the finished object.
  • Community is one of the most valuable tools a maker can have.
  • Creativity grows when it's shared.

Whether you leave with a finished project or simply a new skill to practice at home, we hope you leave feeling inspired—and excited to come back.


Class Policies

Registration

Advance registration is required for all classes, as space is limited. Your seat is reserved once payment has been received.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Because our classes are intentionally small and often rely on minimum enrollment to run, each registration makes a meaningful difference. When you register, you're reserving a seat that someone else may not be able to take.

  • Cancellations made 14 or more days before the start of class are eligible for a full refund or store credit.
  • Cancellations made less than 14 days before class are not eligible for a refund or store credit.
  • If you're unable to attend, you're welcome to transfer your registration to another person. Please notify us in advance so we can update our class roster.
  • If Tumalo Fiber cancels a class due to low enrollment, instructor illness, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances, you'll receive the choice of a full refund, store credit, or transferring into another class.

We appreciate your understanding. As a small business, our instructors spend considerable time preparing class materials and lesson plans, and your registration helps make these educational opportunities possible for our community. Please register thoughtfully, as we are unable to make exceptions to this policy.

Class Minimums

Many classes require a minimum number of students to run. If a class does not meet its minimum enrollment, we'll notify you as soon as possible and provide the option of a full refund, store credit, or transferring to another class.

Materials

Each class listing clearly states what is included with your registration and what you'll need to bring.

Unless otherwise noted, students receive 20% off required class materials purchased from Tumalo Fiber.

Arriving to Class

Please arrive 10–15 minutes before class begins so everyone has time to get settled and we can start together.

Accessibility

We strive to make our educational offerings welcoming to everyone. If you have accessibility needs or require accommodations, please contact us before your class so we can do our best to support you.

Photography

From time to time, we take photographs during classes to celebrate the creativity happening in the studio and to share on our website and social media. If you prefer not to be photographed, simply let your instructor know—we're happy to accommodate.


Interested in Teaching?

We're always excited to meet talented makers who enjoy sharing their knowledge. If you have an idea for a class or workshop—whether it's knitting, crochet, spinning, weaving, dyeing, fiber preparation, embroidery, mending, basketry, or another fiber-related craft—we'd love to hear from you.

We believe great teachers come from many backgrounds. If you're passionate about your craft and enjoy helping others learn, we'd love to start a conversation.


Questions?

Have questions about a class? Looking for a recommendation? Have an idea for a workshop? Interested in teaching at Tumalo Fiber?

Please contact our Education Director, Jess Kyle, at education@tumalofiber.com.

We look forward to welcoming you around the table.