Skill Level Information

Fort Worden Kitemakers Conference

Using and Understanding our Class Skill Levels

The classes offered at Fort Worden fall into the following three skill level categories: Beginner, Intermediate, and Experienced. There is considerable overlap among all these categories. There is no clear line or simple test that can be used to determine your kitemaking experience level. Even if a class is shown as a “no-sew” class, don’t assume it is a simple beginner kite. Some are, some aren’t. If you have questions about whether or not you should take a particular class, please email the teacher and discuss it or send your question to Bob Alford, registrar, and your question will be passed along to the teacher. The teacher who designed the class will know what skills are needed. Above all, be honest with yourself. We wouldn’t want you to go home disappointed, with a project you haven’t finished—and possibly won’t ever finish.

These classifications are for your benefit. To make the best use of them, think of them this way:

Beginner:
I am a beginner if I have never made a cloth kite before. I may have never used a sewing machine either—or at least not enough to be comfortable with it. The first thing I should sign up for is Gerry Pennell’s beginning sewing class. This will give me a big boost on the way to being an accomplished kite sewer. I should look through the list of classes offered for beginners—there will be plenty to choose from. Since Gerry’s class is normally held on Friday morning, I may be ready to take something a bit more advanced the next day or even that afternoon.

Please note: Nobody is going to say “no—you can’t take that class.” However, if you choose a class that is too far beyond your experience level, you probably won’t have a good time. We want you to have a good time!

Intermediate:
I am intermediate if I can sew reasonably well. Have I taken Gerry’s class? You bet! I haven’t made many kites yet, but I have developed some skills and am ready to move on. Most of us may fit into this category. Even if I have never made a kite before, but I am an accomplished sewer and I may be comfortable in one of these classes. I’ll ask the teacher via an email!

Experienced:
I am experienced if I have made lots of kites and my sewing skills are well developed. Now I am looking for a challenge, and to learn different and advanced skills and techniques.