Hitchcock Folk School | Introduction to Ancient Jewelry

Hitchcock Folk School is a series of programs and classes for adult and young adult learners. These programs are designed to help participants build deeper relationship with the natural world through the study of ecology and the practice of traditional craft skills.

Since time immemorial people have recognized the beauty of certain stones, shells, woods and other natural items. We have always shaped and modified these natural treasures to enhance our own appearance. During this program, learn how to use ancient techniques to turn natural materials into beads, pendants, and other items for personal adornment.

In this series of classes you will learn:

• How to shape stones and shells into beads and pendants.
• How to respectfully and responsibly source materials for crafting.
• How to turn fibers harvested from native and invasive plants into strong durable cordage.
• How to carve bone and antler using stones and sand
• How to construct tools including the bow drill, the pump drill, grindstones, holdfasts and flint burins for engraving and carving.     

All program materials and tools will be provided.                                                                                                            

This program will take place over three successive Thursdays in April: April 9th, April 16th, and April 23rd,  from 6:00-7:30 PM each session.

Hitchcock Folk School is a series of programs and classes for adult and young adult learners. These programs are designed to help participants build deeper relationship with the natural world through the study of ecology and the practice of traditional craft skills. If you've ever wanted to learn skills such as woodcarving, firemaking, herb preservation, and much more, then these classes are for you!

About Dustin:

Dustin Clayton is a lifelong student of the natural world and an avid woods walker. He has for many years been a practitioner of various Earth-based skills including: flintknapping, folk herbalism, foraging, traditional woodworking, cordage making, and fiber arts. Additionally, he has extensively studied folk traditions and practices from around the world.  He believes very deeply in approaching the land as it presents itself through the lenses of myth, craft, and contemplation. Dustin’s goal in all the programming he presents is to inspire people to get out into the woods and begin to build respectful relationships with the living world all around them.

“It is my very great hope that this program will provide people who are not scientists, but who are nevertheless filled with wonder and curiosity while in natural spaces, with access points for being in the right relationship with the living world.” — Dustin Clayton

Please meet in the Bluestem Room at the Loess Hills Lodge. 

Related Events

• Hitchcock Folk School | Introduction to Wood Carving
  February 4, 2026
• Hitchcock Folk School | Introduction to Fire Making
  March 28, 2026

Cancellation Policy

Guests may cancel their reservation for a full refund up to 1 week (7 days) prior to the program date by calling 712-545-3283 and speaking with staff directly. Processing fees will not be refunded. Cancellations received less than 1 week (7 days) in advance of the event will not be refunded. Fees for programs canceled by Pottawattamie Conservation due to weather or other circumstances will be fully refunded. 

Registration confirmation and event details, including important updates in the event of weather or other circumstances, will be sent to the email address entered when registering. Make sure to check junk/spam folders. Pottawattamie Conservation is not responsible for missed emails.