January is for New Year’s Resolutions. Now that we’ve forgotten about them, let’s say that February is for self-improvement and crafts.
What a surprise! Queens hosts a bunch of enriching events over the next few days. They include workshops, discussions, and lectures that help people grow, have fun, and break out of the winter rut.
Here’s the schedule.
Saturday, Feb. 8
Endangered Species
Inspector Tiffany VanWych from U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service talks about endangered species, their threats, and ways to help. Free. Starts at 10 am. Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Pkwy., Floral Park.
Traditional Needlecraft Exhibit & Demonstrations
Brooklyn Quilters Guild members Thadine Wormly and Jacqueline Colson display samples of their work and provide demonstrations. Follow along as Wormly creates historically inspired fabric greeting cards and Colson practices hand embroidery. Plus, needlecraft pieces from the collection will be on view. $20, but seniors can attend for $15. Starts at 11 am. Bowne House, 37-01 Bowne St., Flushing.
Sunday, Feb. 9
Bug Buddies
The series teaches the history of edible insects with STEM coordinator and bug expert Keith McManus. This week’s theme is “Edible Insects: Benefits and History,” but the periodic program runs until Dec. 9. $12. Starts at 11 am. Queens County Farm Museum.
Wire Wrapping Jewelry
Artist Naomi Rabinowitz leads an afternoon of making wire-wrapped jewelry using sea glass. Participants make pendants and earrings and learn the basics of wire wrapping. $20. Starts at 12:30 pm. Alley Pond Environmental Center, 229-10 Northern Blvd., Douglaston.
Tuesday, Feb. 11
Victorian-Inspired Decoupage Workshop
Phyllis Ger leads a decoupage workshop with a Victorian flair. Decorate a picture frame or keepsake box, drawing on a variety of vintage images and materials. $12. Starts at 1:30 pm. Voelker Orth Museum, 149-19 38th Ave., Flushing.
Wednesday, Feb. 12
The Namesake
As part of the ongoing Finding Home project, The Namesake screens, followed by discussions, presentations, and light refreshments. The film is based on an eponymous novel by Jhumpa Lahiri. Free. Starts at 7 pm. New York Irish Center, 10-40 Jackson Ave., Long Island City.
Thursday, Feb. 13
Author Talk
Multi-published author Richard Melnick discusses his book on Long Island City in 1776, when the Revolutionary War shifted its focus to New York City. $15. Starts at 7:30 pm. Bayside Historical Society, The Castle, 208 Fort Totten Ave.
Saturday, Feb. 15
Parlor Domes
Craft like it’s 1900 and make the decorative trend that swept through Victorian homes: parlor domes. $5. Starts at 1 pm. King Manor Museum, 150-03 Jamaica Ave.
Tuesday, Feb. 18
African Americans & Fashion
Industry insiders discuss their practices, processes, and sources of inspiration. Panelists include Dyese Matthews, PhD, Assistant Professor of Fashion Management and Social Justice, Parsons School of Design; clothing designers Cassandra Bromfield and Douglas Says; milliner Lisa McFadden; and Jackie Love, founder of the Jacqueline Love Fashion School of Etiquette. Free. Starts at 6 pm. Queens Public Library Central Branch, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica.
The Queens Tourism Council promotes the world’s most diverse county through organized efforts by local businesses, cultural institutions and government. We foster economic opportunities, travel and tourism by letting visitors and residents know that — with great places to visit, eat, play and stay — It’s In Queens!
The Queens Economic Development Corporation strives to create and retain jobs through programming that assists small businesses, encourages entrepreneurship, and promotes our community with an emphasis on supporting those of low-to-moderate income, women, minorities, and immigrants.
Image: Jason Goodman