ABC ADULT EDUCATION CENTER

Main Office:  12254 Cuesta Drive, Cerritos, CA 90703

(562) 926-6734, ext. 25023

for times & locations click on the brochure link

Home Economics Home Decorative

ARTISTIC PAPER ARTS (Parchment Paper Craft)
This class will provide you with an opportunity to learn the basic skills in parchment paper craft, its history, and how it can be used as a means of employment either in teaching or sale of the product. Projects you will learn include “Heart in White” greeting card, “Pansy” greeting card, bookmarks, 3-D Angels and boxes.

BEADING (BASIC TECHNIQUES)
Learn to design and construct professional quality jewelry using one and two needles. The art of knotted strands will be taught. Look in your jewelry box – you may have pieces that you want to redesign or repair. Enrollment is limited to the first 25 students.

BEAD DAZZLE JEWELRY
Come and join the fun and celebrate the seasonal changes with hand crafted bead dazzle projects.  This class will focus on various applications of bead work with all types of materials.  You will take the projects with you.  Learn to make a beaded leather pouch, dimensional beaded rose, bracelets, trinket box, native American choker necklace, beaded bookmarkers, coasters, and much more.

BOBBIN LACE
Learn the ancient art of handmade bobbin lace as it was made before the invention of the machine! Easy to learn. Create small pieces of lace that make perfect gifts.

BRAZILIAN STITCHERY
A three dimensional form of embroidery using brilliantly colored rayon thread of various weights and textures will be taught. Dimensional flowers, leaves, and background filled with fine growth and flowers will be emphasized. All classes are hands on. Create beautiful heirlooms for your family and friends. Supplies may be purchased in class or from an outside source.

CERAMICS
Learn and experiment with various ceramic processes. Glaze calculation and techniques of special interest will be offered. Open to those without experience.

CHINESE BRUSH PAINTING
This class will teach you Chinese painting, Chinese calligraphy and brush painting in an easy and fun environment.  Students will learn the basic skill of writing Chinese characters, painting flowers, birds and landscapes from instructor James Chen.  He has been teaching Chinese painting since 1989.  His experience will make learning easy and enjoyable.

DECORATIVE PAINTING - (Beginning)
If you’ve never painted before, here it is: Introduction to learn your basic stroke with acrylic paint. Explanation on basic supplies and brushes. A variety of different surfaces will be taught, different texture medium will be incorporated into the painting lessons. Explore the possibilities of creativity from whimsical to formal painting (boutique items to floral strokes). Formerly known as Tole painting.

DECORATIVE PAINTING
Learn the many styles of decorative painting while working on various surfaces such as wood, metal, glass, and fabric. Projects range from beginner to intermediate level and are achieved through blending and stroke work. Basic knowledge of Tole painting preferred. 

DRAWING
This course is a multi-level class designed for adults who wish to discover and develop creative artistic abilities in the area of drawing. Students with no previous experience in this area are encouraged to participate. 

EMBROIDERY (COMPUTERIZED)
You will be introduced to the many adjunct machine computer programs available to you for your machine and help to de-mystify the often-confusing computer and sewing machine relationship. Students bring their own machines along with the manual and all power cords and foot controls. Bring machines week 2 of class.

FASHION DESIGN SEWING   
Fashion design made easy! Learn to sew the latest fashions. Teacher will cover basic to advanced sewing techniques. You will have an opportunity to create your own designer clothes from children to wedding gowns. Maestra habla español.

FLORAL ARRANGING
Learn how to use loose flowers to create a hand-tied bouquet, Victorian Tussie Mussies and the art of Topiary with fresh and dried materials, how to dry and press flowers to create projects and holiday arrangements. The instructor has taught her European design techniques at Irvine Valley College for the past 7 years.
($20 weekly material fee) (Enroll in class)  

FUSING GLASS (Melting Glass) (Beginning)
Creating with melted glass is fun and exciting. Create wonderful works of art from plates, bowls, wall art, trivets and jewelry. Learn techniques of frit, stringer and enamel painting on glass.

HOME DECORATIVE SEWING  
Whether a beginner or an advanced sewer this class is for you. Dress up your house with beautiful slipcovers, pillows, window treatments, and endless home accessories. Class demonstrations and techniques in every session. Dressmakers are welcome. (Enroll at any time during the semester). Instructor is bilingual. Certificates of Completion for various levels of sewing difficulty are available. 

ITALICS/CALLIGRAPHY
Continued studies will be taught to enhance pointed-pen work. Through techniques and experiment, the student will develop a script hand for many beautiful projects. 

OIL PAINTING
For adults who wish to discover and develop creative artistic abilities in the area of oil painting. Students with no previous experience in this area are encouraged to participate. Individualized instruction.

OVERLOCK/SERGER and SEWING
Sew and Serge Class will lead you through the basics of serging and will help to overcome the fear of changing that dial, so you can move on to using your serger to its limits. Learn threading, adjusting dials, and decorative stitches. After practicing the basics, you will make use of these techniques on garment construction, sewing for the home and more. You may bring your own overlock serger.   

PASTEL DRAWING
Pastel is a medium between drawing and painting.  Basic approach and skills of pastel drawing will be taught.  Students will get a chance to do still life, landscape, portrait and figure pastel drawings.  Beginning to advanced students welcome.  Individualized instruction.

PATTERN DESIGN
Students will learn to create their own basic pattern block and have an understanding of the fashion design applications within the fashion field.  You will be able to use the basic block pattern to create new designs.

PEN AND INK DRAWING WITH WATERCOLOR PAINTING
Experiment and explore pen and ink drawing with watercolor painting with Lio Liu.  Creating pictures in pen and ink with watercolor.  Basic approach and skills will be taught.  Students with no previous experience in this area are encouraged to participate.  Individualized instruction.

PORTRAIT PAINTING
For experienced portrait painters.  Instruction will include drawing, charcoal, pastels and painting the human form.  Individualized instruction. Prerequisite: Semester of Oil Painting. 

QUILTING/BASIC TECHNIQUES
Learn the basics of patchwork, appliqué and piecing. The class will cover traditional hand techniques as well as modern machine methods. Projects range from full size bed quilts to wall hangings. Beginners and advanced quilters welcome.

SCRAPBOOKING AND PAPER CRAFT
Explore what scrapbooking is all about.  Learn how to use all the new supplies and tools you see in the craft stores, and find out some new uses for your old scraps and supplies.  We will learn about color theory, help you get organized, and help you choose accents and embellishments for your pages.  Learn how to journal your photos.  Have fun learning hundreds of ways to use paper.  Try stamping techniques, paint, paper folding, dry and wet embossing and collage techniques.  Create cards, gift ideas, party favors and much more.  Bring your scraps and supplies and make some new friends.

SERGER
Learn step-by-step how to thread, balance and maintain your machine. Enjoy sewing high-fashion techniques while creating great-looking clothes. You can get help with trouble shooting all overlock brands or models.

SEWING AND PATTERN ALTERATIONS
Working with beautiful fabrics to create flattering designs is a pleasure all home sewers enjoy. Achieving perfectly fitting clothes can be a challenge. Learn the secret of industrial sewing and pattern alterations. If you are frustrated with store-bought patterns fitting well, get ready to learn some user-friendly techniques. Get a perfect fit with flattering results.

SEWING BOX TO FINISHED QUILT
Classes will include several easy, fast and fun quilt projects for every level of quilting.  For the longtime quilter who has those UFO's (unfinished objects) and would like assistance, this is your opportunity.  All skill levels welcome, beginners to advanced quilters.  Join the fun!

SEWING for SPECIAL OCCASIONS 
Get ready for that upcoming special occasion: Anniversary, Birthday, wedding and Specialty Costumes.  Beginner will learn basic sewing skills by making a sewing tote bag.  Experienced students may bring their own project or choose from a variety of patterns provided by the instructor.  This is a great way to make a garment that is special to you.  Come prepared to create and meet new sewing friends.  Beginners should pick up a supply list for first project at registration. (click on supply list now for more information)

STAINED GLASS
Learn the basic techniques in stained glass, from leaded panels to copper foil.  Learn to make a Tiffany lamp.  You will love creating new and exciting projects.  Beginners welcome.

UPHOLSTERY BASIC TECHNIQUES
APRENDA TAPICERIA (Se habla Espanol) – This class teaches fundamentals of upholstery with a decorator flair. The class includes instruction on frame construction repair, restoration, restyling and fabric selection.

WATERCOLOR PAINTING
Experienced and beginning students will learn creative ways with watercolor. Learn composition, color and design using wet-into-wet and glazing techniques. 
 

WIRE WRAPPED JEWELRY
Want to learn how to make your own jewelry without having to use a torch and solder?  Learn to use pliers, beads and wire to form great looking necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets.  Impress your friends with your beautiful custom jewelry while saving money at the same time.  Come join the fun with Mona!

WOODWORKING (BASIC)  
Come and explore the essential principles of woodworking. Topics include wood technology, use of portable power tools and basic machinery. Proper techniques and safety are emphasized. 

Older Adult Communication Literature

WRITING YOUR LIFE STORIES
Come and write your life story for yourself, your children and grandchildren.  Your life story is a great gift for your family.  The teacher will guide you through the process by giving you questions for inspiration, writing tips, and advice on printing you finished work.  Come share your life experiences and make new friends.

COMMUNITY CHORUS
Music lovers of all skill levels are welcome.  You will be introduced to basic music notes, rhythms, and simple music theory.  Learn sight reading skills and vocal music techniques.  With these skills you will practice singing in a choir group to attain musical harmony and artistic elegance.

GUITAR (Beginning/Intermediate) 
Beginning Class: Emphasis will be on chords and strumming. This course will cover many of the basic guitar styles including pop, country and finger style. Students furnish their own instrument.
Intermediate Class includes: strums, finger picking, arpeggios, tablature, blues, bar chords, transposition and bass runs. Students must furnish instrument. Performance and teaching opportunities will be available for students who are interested. (Designed for Seniors only) 

GUITAR
Beginning and Intermediate Class will emphasize chords and strumming. This course will cover many of the basic guitar styles including pop, country and some finger styles. The intermediate portion includes strums, finger picking, arpeggios, tablature, blues, bar chords, transposition, bass runs and blues. Students must furnish their own instrument.

THE JOY OF SINGING
Develop a healthy vocal technique and learn proper breathing habits. Harmony singing will be encouraged. Students will become confident singing music of their own choice with piano accompaniment or with tapes. Includes musicals, pop and gospel. 

KARAOKE SINGING
Learn the proper key for your voice, how to sing in time to the music.  Learn how to support the tone and sing with expression.  Develop confidence and stage presence.  CDG available in class or bring your own.  Solo, duet and group singing available.  Musicians wanting to improve their quality of singing and stage presence.  Bring your instrument and music for assistance.

PERCUSSIONS
Come join the fun with percussion instruments.  You will learn how to play Maracas, Guiro, Claves, triangles, shakers, Congas, and Bongos in not time.  Learn the basic fundamentals of these instruments and play the ensemble pieces accompanied with music or participate in the recital concert.  Students must furnish their own instruments and music stand.

PIANO 
Beginning students are welcome! Basic skills, different styles and music theory will be taught to immediate students. Sharps, flats will be introduced according to individual’s level. Keyboards are provided for classroom use. (Taught in Korean)

PIANO/ORGAN/KEYBOARD (Beginning)
A combination class for the very beginning student and also for the student who has basic level note and chord reading and rhythmic ability in C, and middle C, F and G positions and is familiar with sharps and flats.  Show tunes, pop and classical styles will be covered.  Limited number of keyboards are provided.

SINGING 
Learn to sing and enjoy songs from a variety of countries. Pronunciation and lyrics will be explained in class. Songs from musicals, American folk music, old pop tunes, gospels and movie showings will be taught. Sign up and join the fun!

UKULELE
A beginning and intermediate course in Hawaiian, Tin Pan Alley and other songs and styles up to today. Basic music theory, vamps, and transposition will be included. Students may use any type of ukulele and must furnish their own instrument. The emphasis will be on singing and playing. Singers and guitarists are also welcome.

Home Economics Food Preparation

All below classes are closed for the summer

CAKE DECORATING
This 18 week class for beginning, intermediate and advanced students.  Beginning students will learn the fundamentals of cake decorating - baking, filling and decorating cakes.  Working with a variety of icings, marzipan, fondant, color flow and icing flowers to create holiday cakes and cakes for all occasions.  Emphasis will be on piping skills.  Intermediate & Advanced students will continue to learn new and exciting decorating techniques: stenciling, gum paste, brush embroidery, lace pieces, collars and floral designs to create and design cakes.

CAKE DECORATING      
BEGINNING/INTERMEDIATE AND ADVANCED COURSE: Beginning students will learn the fundamentals of cake decorating making icing, mixing colors, figure piping, color flow, work with rolled fondant, learn to make icing flowers and will make a variety of cakes for holidays and all occasions.  Intermediate & Advanced students will apply intermediate and advanced skills while learning new techniques.  Advanced students will continue to work with rolled fondant and royal icing.  Emphasis will be placed on designing and creating cakes.  Prerequisite: Completion of beginning course.

QUICK BREAD AND MORE
Muffins, shortcakes, coffee cakes, scones and more, will be taught in this deliciously fun class.  A simple pleasure for both experienced and beginning baking students.

BASIC FOOD PREPARATION TECHNIQUES
BEGINNING students will learn how to make 17 different kinds of cakes or cookies in one semester, i.e. Cashew Cookies, Pudding Cake, Imagawa Yaki and Oriental Surprises. INTERMEDIATE students will cover Tea Cookies, Red Bean Cookies, Custard Tarts, Sushi and more. ADVANCED students will learn how to make Coconut Balls, Sesame Cookies, Angel Cake & Water Dumplings. (Taught in Chinese)

COOKING AND NUTRITION
A comprehensive cooking and nutrition class designed to provide instructions on creating and preparing meals with very unusual recipes.  Limited to 50 students.  (Seniors only) (Must register at the Senior Center)

IS IT SOUP YET?
Come and see how easy and fun making soup can be.  There is nothing more satisfying than a hearty bowl of soup for lunch or dinner served with scrumptious muffins.  Students will prepare their soup or may come to observe.  Instructor will demonstrate making a variety of muffins.

BAKING101
Apple pie, biscotti, cheesecake and more will be taught in this fun filled class.  Students will learn to make the perfect pie crust to make a cherry-lattice pie.  Pastries, cheesecake, cream puffs, black forest cake, breads and much more will be taught in this 18-week course.  Come and learn the ABC's of baking.