The Crafting Bee

The Crafting Bee The Crafting Bee is a teaching and learning center in Winthrop Harbor, IL that offers quality handicraft classes, parties, camps, and special events.

We believe that taking the time to create something meaningful connects us, and helps us to appreciate the work that goes into making beautiful everyday things or commemorate special events. With the instruction ad guidance of our inspired artisans and makers, novices to experts can learn new skills and create meaningful, one-of-a-kind pieces in an eclectic studio space. We offer high-quality sewing, knitting, crocheting, paper, cooking and crafting lessons to both children and adults.

KIDS CAN COOK 1 STARTS ON MAY 18TH!The introductory level class will teach your child to use simple kitchen utensils, me...
05/11/2026

KIDS CAN COOK 1 STARTS ON MAY 18TH!

The introductory level class will teach your child to use simple kitchen utensils, measuring skills and table manners.

LEVEL 1—Kitchen Basics
WH0: Ages 7—14

WHEN: Mondays / May 18 — June 15, 2026
Afternoons / 4 - 6 pm

$30.00 - per weekly session
$90.00 - full program (4 weeks)*
*due at first session

WHERE: The Crafting Bee
920 Sheridan Road
Winthrop Harbor, IL 60096

REGISTER NOW!

[email protected]

224—774-4143

Class space is limited - Face Masks may be required

In this session, the class took a gastric excursion to the Far East and tried their hand at some Japanese cooking.First,...
05/04/2026

In this session, the class took a gastric excursion to the Far East and tried their hand at some Japanese cooking.

First, they chopped, mixed, filled, and folded a batch of savory, umami-rich Yaki Gyoza.

Next they peeled, sliced, spread, layered, and rolled up a number of mild, creamy, and slightly sweet California Maki Rolls.

When everything was ready, they sat down to try their creations accompanied by some pickled ginger, soy sauce with chili oil, and Ponzu sauce.

After a quick lesson on how to use chopsticks, it was time to taste everything.

The class thought the California Maki tasted very light and fresh, but the hands down favorite was the Gyozas dipped in Ponzu.

All in all, the class decided that everything was "tada subarashī" (just wonderful).

This module  focuses on International cuisine.In the first session, the class took a gastric trip to Central Europe wher...
04/27/2026

This module focuses on International cuisine.

In the first session, the class took a gastric trip to Central Europe where they tied their hand at making a number of Polish dishes.

With Polka music playing in the background, the class got to work.

For the first dish, they sliced, spiced, and simmered fresh strawberries to make Zupa Owocowa (Fruit Soup). Usually served as a refreshing first course or a light main meal during hot summer days. It is frequently served with tender egg noodles or pasta, such as shells or twists.

Next, they blanched, mixed, seasoned, and rolled up a batch of the quintessential, comforting staple of Polish cuisine, Gołąbki (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls). The name of the dish literally translates to "little pigeons" or "doves" due to their shape.

Finally, they mixed, rolled, cut, stuffed, and crimped a savory and creamy batch of Pierogi Ruskie (Potato Cheese Dumplings).

After they tasted everything, the class decided the Pierogi was their favorite.

Smacznego! (enjoy your meal)

SEW COOL STARTS ON MAY 1ST!This class will teach teens ages 13 -19 everything they need to get started sewing! Sewing wi...
04/23/2026

SEW COOL STARTS ON MAY 1ST!

This class will teach teens ages 13 -19 everything they need to get started sewing! Sewing will teach them hand and eye coordination, as well as hand dexterity.

In this program, they will learn how to thread the machine, load the bobbin, adjust tension, change needles, and troubleshoot. They will sew straight lines, turns and backstitch. Also, they will learn about sewing techniques like seam allowances and how to adjust the settings on the machine.

They will also learn how to hand stitch, to pin, cut and baste fabric. The program includes measuring for pattern size, pattern selection and pattern envelope reading, fabric and notion selection, pattern layout, cutting, and sewing to complete a project.

All supplies included.

WHEN: Fridays
May 1 —June 5, 2026
Afternoons / 4 pm — 6 pm
$150.00 *
*due at first class

WHERE: The Crafting Bee
920 Sheridan Road
Winthrop Harbor, IL 60096

REGISTER NOW!

[email protected]

224—774-4143

Space is Limited—Face Masks May Be Required

TEENS CAN COOK 2 STARTS ON APRIL 30TH!Send your teen on a culinary skills adventure. In this six-week  series, young che...
04/22/2026

TEENS CAN COOK 2 STARTS ON APRIL 30TH!

Send your teen on a culinary skills adventure. In this six-week series, young chefs will enjoy lots of hands-on cooking experience as we explore flavors and ingredients and teach them food preparation self-sufficiency.

Designed for ages 13-19, our Teens Can Cook Series will help your teen become a more competent, confident cook.

Classes run two hours each and last for six weeks. Young chefs will enjoy generous samples of each delicious dish and take home a packet of recipes and an apron.

Share your love of cooking and boost your teen’s confidence in the kitchen with a culinary experience they’ll never forget.

WH0: Ages 13—19

WHEN: Thursdays
April 30 — June 4, 2026
Afternoons / 4-6 pm

$30.00 - per week
$150.00 - full program (6 weeks)*
*due at first session
**
WHERE: The Crafting Bee
920 Sheridan Road
Winthrop Harbor, IL 60096

REGISTER NOW!

[email protected]

224—774-4143

Class space is limited - Face Masks may be required

SEW MUCH FUN STARTS ON APRIL 29TH!Have a machine and don’t know how to use it? Or, do you want to try out sewing before ...
04/22/2026

SEW MUCH FUN STARTS ON APRIL 29TH!

Have a machine and don’t know how to use it? Or, do you want to try out sewing before deciding whether you want to purchase a machine?

Then, this is the series for you.

This series is designed for adults to learn in a warm and non-competitive environment. Perfection is never our goal; rather, students should expect that over time their skills will improve with practice. Our instructors make sewing approachable, and it’s our goal to provide you with the confidence and the knowledge you need to continue practicing sewing at home.

Through sewing we build communities, stimulate creativity, and help improve self-esteem and confidence by empowering students to sew whatever they want.

All supplies included.

WHEN: Wednesdays
April 29 — June 3, 2026
Evenings / 7 pm — 9 pm
$150.00 *
*due at first session

WHERE: The Crafting Bee
920 Sheridan Road
Winthrop Harbor, IL 60096

REGISTER NOW!

[email protected]

224—774-4143

Class space is limited - Face Masks may be required

KIDS CAN SEW STARTS ON APRIL 29TH!This class will teach kids ages 7-14 everything they need to get started sewing! Sewin...
04/22/2026

KIDS CAN SEW STARTS ON APRIL 29TH!

This class will teach kids ages 7-14 everything they need to get started sewing! Sewing will teach them hand and eye coordination, as well as hand dexterity.

In this program, they will learn how to thread the machine, load the bobbin, adjust tension, change needles, and troubleshoot. They will sew straight lines, turns and backstitch. Also, they will learn about sewing techniques like seam allowances and how to adjust the settings on the machine.

They will also learn how to hand stitch, to pin, cut and baste fabric. The program includes measuring for pattern size, pattern selection and pattern envelope/instructions reading, fabric and notion selection, pattern layout, cutting, and sewing to complete a project.

WH0: Ages 7—14

WHEN: Wednesdays
April 29 — June 3, 2026
Afternoons / 4 –6 pm

$150.00 - full program (6 weeks)*
*due at first session

WHERE: The Crafting Bee
920 Sheridan Road
Winthrop Harbor, IL 60096

REGISTER NOW!

[email protected]

224—774-4143

Class space is limited - Face Masks may be required

For the final session in this module, the class tried their hand at cheese making.First, they heated the milk to the pro...
04/20/2026

For the final session in this module, the class tried their hand at cheese making.

First, they heated the milk to the proper temperature. Next, they added an acidic agent (lemon juice or vineger) which caused the heated milk to curdle. After allowing time for the curdling process, they poured the mixture into a cheesecloth lined colander so it's to separate the curds from the whey. Then, they allowed the courage to continue to drain for a period of time. Once the curds had finished draining, they were given a light squeeze to remove any remaining liquid and then transferred to a container.

By using lemon juice, the class created a creamy, smooth Ricotta. With the vinegar, they created a crumbly and slightly tangy Farmer's Cheese. They further enhanced the farmer's cheese by adding a medley of fresh herbs.

Finally, it was time to sit down, break out the crackers, and taste the results.

The class was very pleased with how their first effort at cheese making turned out.

This session focused on making butter.The class learned about the process that turns heavy cream into butter and the sta...
04/14/2026

This session focused on making butter.

The class learned about the process that turns heavy cream into butter and the stages that it goes through on the way (the cream turns to whipped cream, then thickens further, and finally separates into solid butter and liquid buttermilk).

Next, they started with a clean quart jar, a pint of heavy cream, and a lot of elbow grease. For the next 20 minutes, the class proceeded to shake their jars vigorously, accompanied by an energetic playlist of songs that all had the word "shake" I them.

Once they were finished turning, the butter and buttermilk were separated, the butter was rinsed with cold water to remove any trace of buttermilk, and any remaining liquid was pressed out.

Finally, the class kept 1/3 as Sweet Cream Butter and then divided and flavored up the remaining to create some Garlic Herb Butter and Cinnamon Honey Butter.

The class agreed that it was a fun, but tiring, way to make some fresh butter.

KIDS CAN COOK 5 STARTS ON APRIL 20TH!The module will invite students to experience international cuisines.  Students wil...
04/13/2026

KIDS CAN COOK 5 STARTS ON APRIL 20TH!

The module will invite students to experience international cuisines. Students will explore and create dishes from a number of cultures including Japanese, Cajun/Creole, Polish and French.

LEVEL 5—International Cuisine
WH0: Ages 7—14

WHEN: Mondays/ April 20—May 11, 2026
Afternoons / 4 - 6 pm

$30.00 - per session
$90.00 - full program (4 weeks)*
*due at first session

WHERE: The Crafting Bee
920 Sheridan Road
Winthrop Harbor, IL 60096

REGISTER NOW!

[email protected]

224—774—4143

Space is Limited—Face Masks may be required

Address

920 Sheridan Road
Winthrop Harbor, IL
60096

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 4pm
Wednesday 9am - 4pm
Thursday 9am - 4pm
Friday 9am - 4pm
Saturday 9am - 6pm

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