Craft Workshops at Branigan Cultural Center Week of Dec 11

During the week of Dec 11, a series of six mini-workshops will be held at the Branigan Cultural Center in Las Cruces. Each workshop is a single two hour session where participants will make either traditional Ojo de Dios or Punched Tin Ornaments just in time to be used during the holiday season. Both crafts are found historically in New Mexico. Space is limited in each workshop so pre-registration is strongly encouraged. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. There is a $10 fee per participant that covers costs of supplies. A finished piece can be taken home at the end of the session.

From snowflakes and stars to wreaths, hand-made punched tin ornaments are a quick and fun craft. Tin pieces can be used to decorate trees, windows or even add a festive touch to a package. Two punched tin sessions are scheduled for Tuesday, December 11, the first from 1: - 3 p.m. and the second from 5 - 7 p.m. A third session is offered on Saturday, Dec 15 from noon until 2 pm. Sessions are limited to 12 participants each and the minimum age is 10 years old.

Ojo de Dios or Eye of God is a fiber craft where yarn wrapped around wood dowels forms geometric patterns. They are found throughout the Americas. By changing yarn colors and textures, and wrapping directions interesting designs are developed. Ojo de Dios workshop is offered at three times. There are two sessions on Wednesday, Dec 12, the first from 1- 3 p.m. and the second from 5 - 7 p.m. A third session is offered on Saturday, Dec 15 from 9:- 11 a.m. Minimum age for Ojo de Dios workshop is six years old.

For a full schedule of the craft workshops being offered, visit the Branigan Cultural Center at 501 N. Main on the downtown mall or call (575) 541-2154. A registration form is also available online by visiting www.museums.las-cruces.org and clicking on the Branigan