Made at 234 | The Fall Studio Issue

In this issue of Made at 234, we're taking a look at yarn bombing and how a little knitting and crochet can turn ordinary trees into public art. We've also got an interesting bit of bookbinding history to share, along with Alicia Bembenek's upcoming journal workshop.

Our monthly Hobby Hangout continues, and we'll check in with our studio artists to see what they've been working on.

Take a look at what's happening, and hopefully we'll see you at one of our upcoming events!

Yarn bombing, also known as knit graffiti or yarn storming, is a playful form of temporary public art that transforms everyday objects into colorful works of art using knitting, crochet, and yarn.

Trees are especially popular canvases! Artists wrap trunks and branches with colorful handmade patches, giving them the appearance of wearing cozy, multicolored sweaters.

It's a wonderful example of how art can pop up in unexpected places, turning ordinary public spaces into something surprising, cheerful, and fun.

And now we're bringing a little of that creativity to Main Street!

Bring your knitting, crochet, pom-poms, or other yarn creations and help us dress up the trees outside the Studios!

No experience necessary! We'll have yarn to share, but feel free to bring any extra!!! Everyone is welcome. Bring your imagination and come have some fun!

Did you know that a modern bookbinding technique grew out of efforts to save centuries-old books?

After the devastating 1966 Florence flood in Italy, conservators working to rescue damaged books took a fresh look at medieval binding techniques. These early books often used flexible covers and stitching rather than rigid boards and glue.

Inspired by these historic structures, Spanish bookbinder Carmencho Arregui developed Crossed Structure Binding in the early 1990s. Her clever invention uses interlocking strips of cover material and stitching, allowing a book to open comfortably without a glued spine. The design also makes the binding easier to repair.

Today, this technique is popular with book artists who appreciate its beauty, flexibility, and handmade character.

Join artist Alicia Bembenek to create your own handmade journal using this fascinating binding technique!

You'll work with beautiful handmade paper from Montreal, acid-free pages, and linen thread to create a pocket-sized journal with 112 blank pages. Perfect for sketches, notes, stories, and everyday inspiration.

All materials and tools are provided. Limited spaces available!

Have a project you've been working on, or one you keep meaning to start? Bring it to our monthly Hobby Hangout at Studios at 234.

Knitting, crochet, drawing, painting, embroidery, or whatever you're into. It's a chance to work on your own stuff, see what everyone else is making, swap ideas, and enjoy some company.

All ages and experience levels are welcome. Come on your own or bring a friend. Artist Hannah Perlow will be there if you'd like a little help or inspiration.

Our artists have been busy working on new projects, trying out different materials, and making use of their time at Studios at 234.

We're checking in with them to see what they're working on, what's coming together, and what they're planning next. Here's a look at some of the work happening at 234 Main Street.

Artist Update | Fall 2026

Alessandra Giampaolo Keener

Earlier this fall, Alessandra Giampaolo Keener was awarded a year-long Maryland State Arts Council grant focusing on performance art and costuming.

For the next six months, she'll be turning her artistic attention to fiber art, and community members can help support her work!

Old Jeans & Flannel Shirts Wanted!

Alessandra is collecting clean, used jeans and flannel shirts of any size for her fiber art projects.

Clothing can have holes or even one or two small stains. The materials will be cut up and repurposed into new artwork.

Donation Drop-Off

Reisterstown Main Street Welcome Center & Museum
234 Main Street, Reisterstown
Fridays & Saturdays, 10 AM to 2 PM