Colleen Castillo

International Studies and Culture

Dr. Colleen Castillo is a world-celebrated educator and teacher-trainer who has dedicated her life to helping international students learn English both at home and abroad. She also holds a degree in home economics. She has worked mostly at the university level but at times has taught students ranging in age from 3 to 88. She has had the privilege of conducting educational seminars in many countries including Korea, Japan, Australia, and Mexico.

Dr. Castillo enjoys traveling, and interacting with as many people as she can.

Dr. Castillo enjoys quilting and other types of needlework and crafts and especially enjoys sharing techniques to help others discover the satisfaction of making something with their hands.

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Course Overview

This series of 16 fun, hands-on needlework classes will offer cruise passengers a chance to explore a variety of creative crafts, from crocheting to embroidery, in a relaxed, social environment. The focus is on small, portable projects that can be easily completed in one or two sessions, making them perfect for vacationers. No prior experience is necessary, and all materials will be provided, with each class designed to be lighthearted, entertaining, and accessible for all skill levels.

Learning Outcomes:

Skill Development: Passengers will learn basic needlework techniques and create small, take-home projects.
Stress Relief: The classes offer a relaxing and therapeutic experience, ideal for vacation relaxation.
Creativity & Fun: Passengers will enjoy a creative outlet and have fun while learning a new skill.

Course Breakdown:

Introduction to Needlework
- Overview of the different types of needlework.
- Introduction to basic tools and materials.
- Project: A simple hand-stitched bookmark or keychain.
Beginner’s Crocheting
- Basic crochet stitches: chain and single crochet.
- Project: A small crocheted coaster or dishcloth.
Crochet in the Round
- Learn how to crochet in the round to make a circle or spiral.
- Project: A crochet hot pad or a simple circle motif.
Easy Knitting: The Basics
- Introduction to knitting: casting on and the knit stitch.
- Project: A small knitted coaster or dishcloth.
Knitting Simple Patterns
- Teach a basic ribbing pattern and how to increase/decrease.
- Project: A small knitted headband or scarf.
Basic Embroidery Stitches
- Introduction to basic stitches: running stitch, satin stitch, and back stitch.
- Project: Embroidered design on a small fabric pouch.
Decorative Embroidery: Fun with Florals
- Learn a few floral embroidery stitches (lazy daisy, French knots).
- Project: Embroidered floral motif on a handkerchief or tote bag.
T-shirt Upcycling: Simple Appliqué
- Introduction to fabric appliqué using felt and simple stitching.
- Project: Appliqué design on a t-shirt or bag.
Cross-Stitch: A Quick Start
- Learn basic cross-stitch techniques and how to read patterns.
- Project: A small cross-stitch bookmark or ornament.
No-Sew Fabric Flowers
- Crafting simple fabric flowers without sewing machines.
- Project: A fabric flower brooch or hair accessory.
Quick and Easy Quilted Coaster
- Introduction to hand-sewing a small quilted piece.
- Project: A quilted coaster or mug mat.
Handmade Jewelry: Beading & Embroidery
- Learn how to create simple beaded designs with embroidery thread.
- Project: Beaded bracelet or keychain.
Memory Wire Bracelets
- Introduction to using memory wire to make quick, no-clasp bracelets.
- Project: A colorful memory wire bracelet.
Simple Thread & Yarn Tassels
- Learn to make simple yarn or thread tassels.
- Project: Tassel keychains or bag charms.
Felted Needlework: Felt Flowers
- Use needle-felting techniques to create 3D flowers from wool.
- Project: A small felted flower pin or keychain.
Final Class: Show & Tell and Creative Fun
- Passengers share their completed projects.
- Discussion on how to adapt techniques for future projects.
- Project: A final “surprise” mini-project, such as a personalized fabric bookmark or keychain.

Class Format:

Introduction & Demonstration (10 min): A brief introduction to the project and technique of the day.
Hands-On Crafting (40 min): Passengers work on their projects, with personalized guidance and assistance.
Wrap-Up & Sharing (10 min): Time for questions, sharing progress, and offering tips for continuing at home.

Materials and Supplies:

All materials will be provided, including:

Yarn, thread, and embroidery floss.
Crochet hooks, knitting needles, and embroidery hoops.
Fabric, felt, beads, and other supplies for various projects.

Why This Course is Perfect for Cruise Passengers:

Accessible & Fun: No prior experience required, and the projects are easy to complete.
Portable Projects: All projects are small, take-home crafts that can be worked on during the cruise and beyond.
Relaxing & Therapeutic: Needlework is known for its calming benefits, ideal for a stress-free vacation.
Social & Creative: The classes provide a fun, interactive way to meet fellow passengers while exploring new creative skills.

This course is designed to be light, fun, and engaging, making it perfect for passengers looking to unwind and explore their creativity while on board. Each class offers a relaxing yet productive experience, with no complicated tools required. Passengers can walk away with completed, handmade items and the confidence to continue their craft after the cruise.