JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- The Polar Express Arts and Crafts Center offers the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson community a creative experience combined with one-of-a-kind gift ideas for the upcoming holidays.
The center is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day except Dec. 24, 25 and 31 and Jan. 1.
Walk-ins are encouraged for individuals who have never experienced what a base hobby shop has to offer.
“When people visit the Polar Express Arts and Crafts Center they have an opportunity to see all the amazing things they can create with their own hands,” said Evelyn Aslou, a recreational assistant at center. “If a person is knowledgeable about a craft and desires to just use what we offer at the facility they can or we offer classes if one desires to learn something new.”
For the pick-and-paint ceramics, all ages are welcome. Recreational assistants are available to help set up supplies, answer any questions, and offer expertise.
Around the holidays people may have gifts in mind; a large assortment of ornaments, coffee mugs, platters, cookie jars, bowls and more are available for purchase while supplies last.
The wood shop is open Saturdays and Sundays; customers need a wood shop safety certification prior to usage. The one-hour class is $10 and offered twice a week – Fridays at 5:15 p.m. and Sundays at 10:15 a.m.
“Those interested in woodworking can also take a framing class,” said Wendy Gould, the center’s art specialist and framer. “With so many types of art offered here, everyone can discover something creative about themselves and most people leave with a surprised feeling of accomplishment.”
Framing classes are $30 and are available Tuesdays, from 3 to 5 p.m., Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to 1p.m., and Sundays, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Pottery classes are $20 per hour and are available Saturdays and Sundays by appointment.
Engraving, glass fusion, Alaska dry-brush and other classes are also offered through this multi-craft facility.
“We want people of all ages to come to the shop, create something new and really enjoy themselves.” Aslou said. “We even have infants come in to do foot and hand prints on ceramics. It’s a great way for individuals and families to just slow down, relax and maybe make some quality memories.”
While the arts and crafts center is a great place to create holiday gifts, the facility also offers several other crafting opportunities throughout the entire year, Alou said.
The facility can also be used as a place to have birthday parties, spouse and friend groups, units and other small morale-building events.
For more information, call the Polar Express Arts and Crafts Center at 384-3717.