{1/10} Crankie Box Storytelling Workshop — adult session

Saturday, January 10 • 10-12 (open workshop time allowed for the afternoon)
Ages 18+ • All supplies included

January at Handcraft Revival invites us to slow down and rediscover simple wonders—craft traditions that illuminate the dark months and spark imagination.
Crankie Boxes are one of those wonders.

Part folk art, part paper theater, a crankie box is a hand-cranked stage: as you turn the handle, a painted or illustrated scroll moves across a window, revealing a story panel by panel. It feels like watching a lantern slide show, or an illustrated book come alive.

In this Adult Session, artist Kaelee Jensen will introduce you to the craft of paper theater. You’ll begin designing a visual story, learn how to build the box structure, and explore silhouette, shadow, and color as your narrative moves. We’ll focus on thoughtful pacing so your scroll unfolds naturally.

You will likely not complete both the box and the full scroll within the two-hour instruction period—crankies take time, and that’s part of their charm. Expect to get a solid start on your storytelling scroll and the foundational box build.

What You’ll Learn

• Crankie box origins and folk-art traditions
• How to plan a narrative for movement
• Scroll techniques: illustration, silhouette, shadow, color
• Construction basics: window, crank, reel, scroll-paper setup
• Tips for performing or sharing your finished crankie

What You’ll Make

• A partially completed crankie box structure
• A hand-illustrated scroll in progress (enough to continue independently)

Optional Work Time

After the 2-hour instructional session, the workshop room will remain open for making.
You are welcome to stay and continue working on your crankie.
This extended time is unguided—no instructor support—but tools and space will be available.

🎭 Theater Night Participation Invitation

Handcraft Revival will host a Crankie Box Theater Night at the end of January—a cozy, lantern-lit evening of storytelling and simple performance.

If you are interested in performing your crankie (finished or in-progress), we would love to hear from you!
Please reach out if you’d like to be considered as a performer for the event.

Class Details

Date: Saturday, January 10
Time: 10am-12pm
Location: Handcraft Revival — Sugar House
Instructor: Kaelee Jensen
Who: Adults (Ages 18+ welcome)

Good to Know

• All supplies and tools provided.
• No drawing experience necessary.
• Scrolls can be minimalist or richly illustrated—your style is welcome.
• Seats are limited to ensure a relaxed, focused environment.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Will I finish my crankie box during the class?
Probably not. Crankie boxes are wonderfully involved projects. You’ll get a strong start and can continue working during the optional open studio time afterward.

Can I stay after class to keep working?
Yes! The room will remain open for independent work. Please note: the instructor may not stay beyond 12pm.

Do I need to bring anything?
No. All supplies, tools, and inspiration materials are fully provided.

Is this class adults only?
Yes—this particular session is designed just for adults.