The Art of Handmade Charcoal: A Traditional Drawing Materials Workshop

The Art of Handmade Charcoal: A Traditional Drawing Materials Workshop

Wednesday, June 17, 2026, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

$50 per person

Discover the ancient craft of charcoal making and create your own handmade drawing materials from scratch. Once an essential skill used to produce fuel for cooking and heating, charcoal making has a rich history rooted in creativity, resourcefulness, and craftsmanship. In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the traditional process of making charcoal specifically for drawing and sketching applications.

Held in a welcoming and creative environment at Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to connect art, history, and hands-on making while creating tools you can continue using in your own artistic practice.

What You'll Do

During this immersive workshop, participants will learn the traditional process of transforming natural materials into artist-quality charcoal. You’ll explore the history and practical uses of charcoal while participating in each step of the making process. By the end of the session, each participant will take home a tin of their own handmade charcoal ready for drawing and sketching.

You'll Learn:

• The traditional process of making charcoal by hand

• How charcoal has historically been used for fuel and art

• Techniques for preparing charcoal suitable for drawing and sketching

• The differences between handmade and commercial charcoal

• Tips for using handmade charcoal in artistic practice

What's Included

• All charcoal-making materials and supplies

• Hands-on instruction and guidance

• A tin of handmade charcoal to take home

• Opportunity to explore a traditional craft technique

Who This Workshop Is For

• Artists and creatives interested in handmade materials

• Beginners curious about traditional crafts

• Anyone interested in drawing, sketching, or art processes

• Individuals who enjoy hands-on learning experiences

• History and craft enthusiasts

  
  

Event Details

What to Bring: An apron or clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Participants may get charcoal on clothing during the workshop.

Experience Level: Beginner-friendly

Takeaway: A tin of handmade charcoal and knowledge of traditional charcoal-making techniques

Location: Prairie Fruits Farm Classroom

4410 N Lincoln Ave, Champaign, IL

Parking: General parking is available in the gravel lot. ADA parking is located south of the farmhouse. The classroom is in the white building with black trim west of the gardens. Check in at the farm store at the front of the building.

Tickets: $50 per person

By attending, you consent to your image being used in Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery marketing, social media, and publications. Please notify the photographer if you prefer not to be photographed.