Over the years, we have had many wonderful workshops and have learned a lot about enhancing the workshop experience. Guidelines, a list of necessary tasks, and a basic supply list follow.

Enhancing the Workshop Experience

A workshop is an opportunity to learn new skills and techniques, gather information, meet people, and share with each other. We all look forward to having a wonderful experience every time we attend one. Over time, the following guidelines have evolved; their purpose is to provide an environment in which each participant can have a truly pleasurable learning experience.

Registering for Workshops

Registration is open to current members only. A flyer for each workshop will be mailed to members a few months in advance of the workshop with the course description; date, time, and place; and the "first day to mail registrations" date. Because members from Carmel to Sacramento attend our workshops, this system is necessary to give all members an equal opportunity to register for workshops. First priority for the workshops go to those who postmark their registrations on the date listed on the flyer. Although this does not guarantee admittance, those who mail on the first day are usually accepted into the workshop. After this date, we add participants in order by the postmark date.

Visitors

Visitors to the classroom are not encouraged. Non-participants who are still present when the class begins, or when it resumes after a lunch break, will be asked to leave.

Arrival Time

It is important for class to begin on time. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before the start of class to set up your workspace and settle in position.

Materials/Supplies

Every attempt is made to form a complete list of materials and supplies. Sharing among students is acceptable and at each person's discretion. The teacher often provides reference books and samples for viewing. These are meant to be shared and utilized by the whole class.

Lab Fees

If the teacher supplies materials which are covered by the lab fee, the quantity will be pre-determined for each participant. However, if the instructor provides materials for several uses to be shared by the whole class, please be considerate of others and take only the materials you need so there will be enough for everyone.

Lecture/Demonstration

When the instructor is teaching, speaking, or demonstrating to the class as a whole, interruptions or conversational comments are inappropriate. The teacher will invite discussion or ask for a response or questions when needed.

Throughout the day, when watching demonstrations, rotate your viewing position so others may also enjoy the front row.

Levels of Experience

Class participants are at very different levels of experience. Our teachers are extremely adept at adjusting to the needs of the group and the individual. In order to do this effectively, they must be allowed to communicate with the group as a whole and on a one-on-one basis.

Individual Instruction

While each student would enjoy private tutoring, every member has the right to equal attention from the instructor. It is imperative that no one should attempt to monopolize the instructor's time.

Noise Level

Conversation with others is often distracting when one is trying to concentrate. When speaking during work periods, be courteous to other class members by using a soft voice. If others are disturbing you, politely request that they lower their voices.

Lunch Breaks

Teachers may choose to use their lunch time to relax, prepare, or take a break. This is entirely the teacher's choice and class members are expected to respect their privacy.

Photography

Please get permission to photograph the work of a student or the teacher. Also, in order to avoid startling or interrupting work in progress, ask permission to photograph the class participants.

Thank you for your cooperation.

At every workshop, there are many tasks — larger or smaller — which need to be done. The following list has been compiled in order to give everyone an opportunity to sign up for an appropriate one. (Tasks that are left over will be assigned on the day of the workshop).

Having a specific task assigned in no way eliminates the need to clean each individual work area by removing papers, spills, scraps, etc.

• Write the newsletter article in a timely manner.
• Take photographs during the workshop.
• Provide lunch for the instructor.
• Arrange for a card for the instructor and have everyone in class sign it.
• Arrange for a gift for the instructor and present it. (You will be reimbursed.)
• Provide transportation for the instructor from the airport.
• Provide transportation for the instructor to the airport.
• Read aloud the Guidelines at the start of the workshop.

• Make sure the evaluation forms are passed out with an envelope to return them.
• Make sure that everyone is wearing a name tag.
• Make sure the guest book is signed by the teacher and, in pencil, by all attendees.
• Collect money for materials and/or copies.
• Replenish the water in the coffee pot and keep the food area tidy.
• Assist the instructor with whatever is needed — chalkboard, paper for demos; take demo papers down at the end; etc.
• Coordinate the jobs, seeing that everything is done, and monitor the noise level.

• Pick up the evaluation forms.
• Restore furniture to the original position.
• Sweep the floor.
• Inspect the table tops for ink spots; close windows and blinds.
• Inspect the bathrooms and classroom for dirty, inky sinks.

• Your usual pens/nibs in assorted sizes*
• Penholders
• Black ink--Sumi, stick ink, waterproof, non-waterproof, acrylic, whatever you prefer*
• Paper--tracing paper, layout bond 11" x 14" or larger*
• Straight edge
• T-square
• Pencil
• Eraser
• Artists' tape/drafting tape
• Small water jar
• Pen wiper/rag
• Apron
• Mug for your coffee/tea
• Bag lunch

* Check your workshop confirmation to see if the instructor has specific requirements.