Fraktur Lettering Workshop with Emily Smucker-Beidler (June 6, 2026)

The Fraktur Lettering Workshop at Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum introduces participants to Pennsylvania German calligraphy through the creation of a hand-lettered Fraktur design inspired by 18th-century traditions.

Saturday, June 6, 2026
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (EDT)

Location:
Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
2451 Kissel Hill Road
Lancaster, PA 17601

Click Here to Register

Tuition:
$100.00 – $110.00

Classroom:
Museum Store – Second Floor (one flight of stairs)

The Fraktur Lettering Workshop is a hands-on introduction to the traditional Pennsylvania German art of Fraktur calligraphy, focusing on the creation of a single, elaborate hand-lettered design. In this workshop, participants will learn how to use pen and ink to form decorative lettering inspired by the vibrant and expressive Fraktur manuscripts of the late 1700s.

Fraktur is a distinctive folk art tradition developed by Pennsylvania Germans during the 18th and early 19th centuries. These works often combined calligraphic text with colorful decorative elements such as birds, flowers, and hearts. Rooted in European illuminated manuscript traditions, Fraktur evolved into a uniquely American art form that reflected both cultural identity and personal expression.

In the Fraktur Lettering Workshop, participants will begin with a brief introduction to the history and stylistic characteristics of Fraktur. This context helps inform the creative process and provides a deeper appreciation for the symbolism and structure of traditional designs.

Students will then explore the fundamentals of pen-and-ink lettering, including line control, spacing, and decorative flourishes. Using provided templates and historical examples, participants will design and create one large Fraktur-style letter, which can serve as a personalized artwork or a meaningful handmade gift.

A key focus of the workshop is balancing tradition with individual creativity. While historical forms and patterns provide a foundation, participants are encouraged to develop their own style within the Fraktur tradition. This approach makes the workshop accessible and engaging for both beginners and experienced artists.

All materials are included, including pen and ink supplies. Watercolor sets in traditional Fraktur color palettes will be available for use during the workshop, allowing participants to add color to their designs. Students are also welcome to bring their own preferred media, such as watercolors, colored pencils, or other materials. Fraktur watercolor sets will be available for purchase at the end of the class.

The Fraktur Lettering Workshop is suitable for all ability levels, including those with no prior calligraphy or art experience. Instruction is provided step by step, and individual guidance ensures that each participant can complete a finished piece.

The class is held in the second-floor classroom of the Landis Valley Museum Store, accessible by one flight of stairs. The workshop runs from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, making it an ideal half-day creative experience.

🎨 What’s Included

• Pen and ink materials
• Templates and design examples
• Access to watercolor sets (traditional Fraktur colors)
• All necessary supplies

🖌️ Optional Materials

• Personal watercolors, colored pencils, or other media
• Fraktur watercolor sets available for purchase ($20)

🖋️ About Fraktur

Fraktur was created by Pennsylvania Germans during the 18th through mid-19th centuries and features decorative lettering paired with colorful imagery such as birds, flowers, and hearts. Inspired by medieval illuminated manuscripts, this art form developed into a distinctive expression of Pennsylvania German culture and continues to inspire contemporary artists today.

👩‍🏫 Instructor: Emily Smucker-Beidler

Emily Smucker-Beidler has been creating Fraktur since sixth grade, when she studied with renowned Fraktur artist Roma Ruth of Montgomery County, PA. She holds both an Art Education degree and a Master’s degree in Art Education and spent 33 years teaching art.

Throughout her career, Emily has created custom Fraktur pieces for hundreds of clients. Now retired from teaching, she brings her passion, expertise, and enthusiasm to her workshops, welcoming participants of all ages and skill levels.

⚠️ Important Notes

• All ability levels welcome
• All supplies included
• Optional materials may be brought
• Class held in the Museum Store’s second-floor classroom
• All sales are final. No refunds
• Proceeds benefit Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum