Waldorf Handwork Educators

We are dedicated to deepening the understanding and enjoyment of teaching handwork (traditional fiber arts such as knitting, crochet, spinning, weaving, hand-sewing, embroidery, machine-sewing, felting, etc.) in a Waldorf-oriented setting (public/ private schools, homeschool, and homeschool pod settings, after-school programs, etc). We offer curriculum guides, teacher training, conferences, professional development,  handwork skills classes, and video resources. All programs are led by Elizabeth Seward, PhD, and Shellie Smith with 60+ years of combined teaching experience.

We began in 2013 holding small in-person summer retreats in Southern California for  handwork teachers and homeschoolers in a Waldorf environment. Our organization has evolved over the years! To meet changing needs, we pivoted to online conferences in 2020. With this new growth came a new name, and a renewed purpose.

Today Waldorf Handwork Educators has expanded to offer a wide variety of programs. Offering these online allows us to welcome colleagues from around the world, allowing us to learn from the diversity of our shared experiences.

WHE is committed to cultivating a culture of inclusion, grounded in the principles of humanity and equity. We believe that only through a diverse and inclusive community, where everyone feels a genuine sense of belonging, can we achieve our vision of making education more human. No matter who you are, where you come from, or how you identify—you are welcome here.