The most successful mini-class that my ward has done was probably basic scrapbooking. The theme for the month was Reflections and Remembrances.
Many of the ladies in our ward had not started scrapbooks yet and didn’t know where to begin. I think they all enjoyed getting some tips to get them started. We also let them complete a page during homemaking. It turned out great and many of the ladies have asked when we can do it again.
Another really successful homemaking night was when we did pies. We had five of the sisters in the ward demonstrate how they made pies. Each of the sisters had their own unique way of doing the pies and they all turned out wonderful. The younger sisters in the ward really enjoyed learning how to make pies (many of them had not made a homemade pie before). And the older sisters in the ward enjoyed learning a new tip or two.

-Jenny

Our most successful mini-class taught massage and relaxation techniques.  The class was taught by my aunt who has been a certified massage technician for over 20 years.  We had never had so many sisters show up, there was so much laughter and interaction between every sister.  I was told numerous times afterward that this mini-class had been the best they had ever attended.  The next Sunday many sisters stated that they had practiced and taught their spouses the neck, hand, and foot massages they had learned and they were now enjoying massages from their husbands.  My aunt was excited about coming because I asked her to teach the class; however, she also received business from these sisters afterwards, which would be incentive to ask any professional therapist (who was not a relative) to come and teach a mini-class.

Angela Citte, Ogden, UT

Our best mini-class (to date, we’re always looking for a great idea!) was a “6 Be’s” wall hanging, with President Hinckley’s 6 Be’s listed in embroidery on a center panel.

The sisters then completed the wall hanging using basic quilt binding and finishing techniques.  The panel, complete with borders and finished details, could also be sewn into a pillow or placed in a frame for a sturdier wall hanging.  We provided a kit with all materials needed to put the wall hanging together, including an instruction sheet.

Many sisters who had no sewing experience were willing to try their hand at this project, as we kept the project fairly small (12″ x 15″ finished) and simple in design. We held this class in October so that everyone had time to complete the projects for Christmas presents.

Jennifer Davis