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Bridgeport Parks and Recreation Chalk Couture Class to Run through Spring, Summer Months

By Julie Perine on March 18, 2019 via Connect-Bridgeport.com

Introductory Chalk Couture classes held at Benedum Civic Center were well-received and the monthly class is scheduled to run throughout spring and summer months. 
 
Interested individuals can call Bridgeport Parks and Recreation at 304-842-8240 to register for the following one-day classes: 
 
April 17 (register by 4/3)
May 16 (register by 5/2)
June 12 (register by 5/29)
July 10 (register by 6/26)
 
Taught by Carissa Huff, the medium is versatile, washable and reusable. 
 
“You use a chalk paste, which is a thick consistency, so it adheres to the surface," she said. "However, if you mess up, it’s so versatile that you can wash it off and start over. It can be used on glass, wood, metal, pillows, T-shirts, chalkboards or about any type of surface you can think of. It’s not permanent until you apply a clear sealer, but we do use chalk inks that are permanent products.”
 
The fairly new concept and product made its appearance in the summer of 2017 in Salt Lake City. Huff first discovered it on Pinterest. She did some research, eventually meeting a sponsor in person who educated her about the product and process. 
 
After selecting a surface – chalkboard often a favorite – the crafter prepares the sticky transfer by “fuzzing” it so it will adhere to the surface. Chalk paste is applied over the transfer with a squeegee and the surface is washed with warm water. Once dry, the surface is sticky again, allowing for layering of transfers and plenty of creativity. Chalk paste is available in a variety of colors. They, too, can be layered to create a unique look.
 
 
“It’s very quick drying and unlike the old mylar stencils, there is no bleeding, so there are less mess-ups,” Huff said. “But even if there is, you can wash it off and start over.”
 
She encourages crafters and novices alike to try their hand at Chalk Couture.
 
“Anyone can use it and it looks clean and professional,” Huff said. “And what I love most in the versatility. Our tastes change and sometimes we get tired of home décor. It can be a big expense if you overturn everything every year or season, but you can switch it up and redo these pieces so you’re not stuck with one thing.”
 
Recreation coordinator for Bridgeport Parks and Recreation, Katie Squires said interest has been increasing since the first class taught earlier in 2019. The March class was close to capacity. 
 
"We hope to continue to fill classes - max is 15 - and offer it once a month," she said. 
 
Cost is $35 per class, which includes all materials. Interested individuals must pre-register by above deadlines by calling 304-842-8240 or stopping at the Benedum Civic Center office on West Main Street.
 
Editor's Note: Photos were taken at March class held at Benedum Civic Center. Stay up to date at The Eclectic Farm  Chalk Couture Independent Designer Facebook page.
 



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