Firefly Hours: Fiber Arts at Allens Lane
As part of Historic Germantown’s neighborhood Firefly Hours initiative, Allens Lane Art Center invites the community to gather outdoors at dusk for a three-evening spring fiber arts series. Inspired by the renewed season of gathering and the quiet magic of early evening, these relaxed, all-ages workshops celebrate small acts of making, connection, and shared light—like fireflies flickering across the lawn.
Participants are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs and settle in for gentle, hands-on fiber activities that build across the three evenings, including native plant stencil printing, small frame weaving with natural fibers, and a special community stitch-in led by a local quilting artist. Allans Lane Art Center, dedicated to engaging the community in accessible arts education and creative experiences, provides all materials and guidance—no experience necessary.
NIGHT ONE: Nature-Inspired Surface Design | Tuesday, April 7th | 5:00–7:00 PM
As the evening light softens, participants will explore creative ways to capture the textures, shapes, and patterns of the park – trees, plants, stones and more. Using simple techniques such as stenciling, leaf rubbings, or fabric imprints, everyone can create unique designs on fabric. This all-ages, activity encourages observation, experimentation, and play with natural forms.
Fabric pieces created during this session can be brought back to incorporate in the following workshops.
NIGHT TWO: Small Frame Weaving | Wednesday, April 8th | 5:00–7:00 PM
As evening settles in, participants will learn the basics of small frame weaving using natural fibers and calming, repetitive techniques. This session emphasizes rhythm and texture — a meditative practice that mirrors the slow flicker of fireflies at dusk.
Participants may incorporate their printed fabric from Night One if they wish.
NIGHT THREE: Community Stitching with Mama Carla Wiley | Thursday, April 9th | 5:00-7:00 PM
The series concludes with an outdoor stitching session led by quilt artist Mama Carla Wiley. Participants are welcome to bring their own projects or join in to learn a bit about hand-stitching for quilting. The session will be relaxed and open, with materials provided, offering a chance to make, connect, and enjoy the evening together—a true Firefly Hour moment.
