A unique learning destination, the Folk School offers a wide variety of weeklong and weekend classes for those looking to strengthen their skills or try their hand at something new.
The Experience
Spark Self-Discovery
Adults from all over the United States and across the world come to the Folk School, amazed by the natural beauty and remote, peaceful setting of our campus. Spanning 270 acres and tucked into the mountains of Western North Carolina, the Folk School offers over 800 classes year-round in areas such as blacksmithing, pottery, woodworking, jewelry making, music, dance, cooking, weaving, writing, and photography.
Explore Our Campus
The Folk School’s peaceful environment and picturesque landscape provides inspiration for all our visitors, whether they’re taking a class or stopping by for the day. Explore our campus by meandering through the woods on winding bark-chipped paths, walking alongside scenic pastures, or taking a stroll along Little Brasstown Creek. Once it is safe to do so, we look forward to welcoming guests to our studios, where people just like you are creating and discovering in the heart of Appalachia.
Campus Master Plan
In 2019 WLA Studio helped the Folk School develop a conceptual plan for the future development of our campus.
Visit The Craft Shop
Our Craft Shop is open to visitors at limited capacity seven days a week. A founding member of the Southern Highland Craft Guild, the Craft Shop sells the highest quality handcrafted items, representing the juried work of over 300 local and regional artists. We also invite you to take a journey through time in the History Center, where you can learn more about the Folk School’s fascinating story and view works by legendary and contemporary artisans.
Experiences in Learning
The Folk School’s immersive and non-competitive environment is perfect for exploring your creativity or building confidence in your craft. Our small-sized classes are taught by expert instructors who make you feel at ease right away, guiding students with joy and understanding. Most of our sessions begin on Sunday and run through the following Saturday. Classes run for six hours a day—but don’t be surprised if you find yourself staying late or coming back to your studio in the evenings!
A Rich History
During your visit, you’ll also discover the rich heritage that has made the Folk School a historical landmark. Our founders were inspired by the 19th century Danish folk school model, an influence that can still be seen in our approach today. As an almost hundred-year-old institution, we continue to examine how our present is defined by our past and emphasize the importance of non-competitive craft education across generations.
Learn More
You can find more information about the many aspects that make up the Folk School Experience using the menu below.
A Typical Week or Weekend
A quick glance of what you can expect.
Studios
Look for special things to happen in the studios at the Folk School.
Housing & Meals
There’s nothing like staying on campus to fully immerse yourself in the Folk School experience.
Vision, Mission and Values
Read the tenets that drive us and see our Strategic Plan.
Events
Activities for students, visitors, and the community to enjoy.
Explore Our Campus
Find a map of our sprawling campus, information about our nature trails, and more.
Craft Shop
Selling the highest quality handcrafted items made by regional artists.
Olive’s Porch
Our new Folk School experience in downtown Murphy offering workshops and more.
History Center
Discover the rich heritage that has made the Folk School a historical landmark.
Our History
Founded nearly 100 years ago, the Folk School has a rich and unique past.
Visitor Guidelines
A few things we ask you to keep in mind during your visit.
Find A Class
With 850+ offerings, choosing which class to take is the hardest decision you’ll make!
Locate & Contact
The John C. Campbell Folk School
Registration Office
Kate DeLong: Registrar & Services Manager
1.800.FOLK.SCH (365-5724)
Mailing Address
One Folk School Road
Brasstown, NC 28902