Trades and Crafts Day features local artisans at Naper Settlement

Natasha Lehrer used to beg her parents to visit Naper Settlement when she was a child. That connection with history and a simpler way of life influenced her to start her own business called Esther's Place at the age of 18. Located in rural Big Rock, Illinois, the enterprise began with a flock of sheep and over the past seven years has grown to specialize in spinning wheels, weaving looms, felting and knitting supplies, kits and classes and everything related to the fiber arts.

Natasha and her mother, Donna Lehrer, will return to Naper Settlement for Trades and Crafts Day that will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 28.

“We'll be demonstrating needle felting and also have displays of fiber art from local artists,” Donna said. “We will have samples of wool from different breeds of sheep from our local wool cooperative so people can feel the difference among the various types of sheep.”

Another mother and daughter team, Celeste and Susan Akre, who are members of the Naperville-based Riverwalk Quilters will be demonstrating hand quilting and appliqué.

Cindy Boudreau, a Naper Settlement volunteer, will be demonstrating how wool is spun into yarn on a spinning wheel. The yarn is then used for knitting, weaving, crocheting and other projects, such as needle felting. Other artisans include lace makers from the Lacemakers and Collectors Exchange (L.A.C.E.) and the Blackhawk Woodcarvers, who will demonstrate the art of woodcarving. In Naper Settlement's Blacksmith Shop, the blacksmith will show how iron is turned into useful tools that were used in the past and can be used in the present. In Naper Settlement's Print Shop, the printer will be making bookmarks to share with visitors. For a small fee, visitors can make a decorative tin punch ornament.

It's also a Settlement Sunday with free do-it-yourself ice cream sundaes, sponsored by Culver's. Admission is $12 adults, $10 seniors and $8 youth 4-12. Naperville residents, children 3 and under and members are free. For more information, visit www.napersettlement.com or call (630) 420-6010.