Learn African folklore embroidery

OUT OF AFRICA- Children practice their new skills as they learn African folklore embroidery. The classes meet at Calabasas Tennis and Swim Center at 4 p.m. on Thursdays from June 28 through Aug. 2. For information, call (818) 222-9791.

Classes in African folklore embroidery will be offered from 4 to 5 p.m. Thursdays, June 28 through Aug. 2 at the Calabasas Tennis and Swim Center, 23400 Park Sorrento.

Adults and boys and girls from ages 8 and up can learn about African tribal traditions and customs through a creative needle art called African folklore embroidery. No experience or needlepoint skill is required.

In this art, the dominant stitch is the chain stitch and no hoop is needed. Designs are predrawn by South African artists and the completed designs can be made into pillow, quilts, wall hangings, purses or stitched onto jackets. Stitches do not need to be perfect and no two completed designs look the same.

African folklore embroidery donates a percentage of kit sales and lecture fees toward KIDZPOSTIVE charity, which enables HIV-infected women in Africa to support their families through the sale of hand-beaded products, and the Johannesburg Children's Home for abused and neglected children in South Africa.

For information about classes, call Leora Raikin at (818) 999-6094 or e-mail info@aflembroidery.com.