Artisan Workshops

Our workshops focus on learning by doing, and they draw inspiration from our extensive collection, exhibits, canoe trips and traditional gear.

Artisan Workshops

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Workshops are important to the hands-on philosophy of the Canadian Canoe Museum and the hands-on nature of canoes, kayaks, and paddling. Our workshops focus on learning by doing and draw inspiration from our extensive collection, exhibits, canoe trips, and traditional gear.

Our workshops offer you the opportunity to learn new skills and experience the satisfaction that comes from crafting something with your own hands, with a focus on natural materials and top-notch instruction.

Our excellent instructors are chosen for their ability to teach their topics with authenticity and skill, providing you with a truly immersive experience. Whether you’re interested in paddle carving, canoe construction,  weaving, sewing, or leatherwork, our workshops cover a wide range of topics, ensuring there’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy. Our new Lakefront Campus also provides many exciting opportunities to expand our artisan workshop program offerings to the great outdoors.

Connect with like-minded adults and gain a profound sense of accomplishment as you learn a new skill or craft. Sign up for a workshop today and join us on this journey of discovery and creation!

2024 Workshops

Below is an early preview of the inaugural workshop series at our new museum at 2077 Ashburnham Drive. 

The Canadian Canoe Museum is thrilled to offer many returning fan-favourite and exciting new workshops. Our workshops fill up fast, so book and secure your spot to ensure you don’t miss out! 

Sign up for our workshop mailing list and be the first to know when we release the complete workshop schedule in 2024We will only email you about workshops (a few fan-favourite workshops sell out just from this mailing list!).

Have questions about our Artisan Workshops?

For more information, email [email protected] or call 705-748-9153 ext. 206

Members save on workshops!

Members of The Canadian Canoe Museum receive a 10% discount on workshops. Learn more about becoming a member!

The Living Traditions Centre

The Living Traditions Centre will house the Artisan Studio, the Canoe-Building Studio and the Millshop. These active hands-on areas will host the Museum’s popular adult artisan skills workshops and courses. Here, visitors will have the opportunity to learn snowshoe making, paddle carving, beading, fabric arts and much more. The Canoe-Building Studio will be dedicated to boat-building courses and demonstrations. Just around the corner, the Millshop will be a vital behind-the-scenes area of the Museum where staff and volunteers can put their woodworking skills into play to support the mission of the Museum.

The interiors of both the Artisan and Canoe-Building Studios will be visible to the visiting public from the Atrium and they will have doors that open wide to the lakeside grounds to utilize the outdoor space when weather permits!

 

Features & Amenities 

 

  • Just 90 minutes east of Toronto.
  • Accessible onsite parking, building, boardwalk, and adaptive canoe and kayak launch.
  • Nearby access to Highway 115, campground (including RV), hotels, restaurants, Peterborough Lift Lock and downtown Peterborough.
  • Signage and exhibits are presented in English, French, and Anishnaabemowin, the local Indigenous language.
  • Onsite café with adjacent indoor and outdoor lakefront terrace and fireplace.
  • Beautiful waterfront campus intersected by the Trans Canada Trail, which connects to nearby parks. 
  • Daily canoe and kayak rentals available. 
  • Shop the gift store for your home, cottage, or next adventure featuring an array of clothing, books, and one-of-a-kind creations by Canadian artists.
  • You'll love the Après Canoe atmosphere happening at The Canadian Canoe Museum!
The new museum’s atrium will welcome visitors and the public to refresh and refuel before their next adventure. It features a reception area, store, café, fireplace, and an artisan workshop to witness the art of canoe-making and restoration first-hand, and a view into the Collection Hall. (Render: Lett Architects)
Lakefront Terrace Exterior Render
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