Home, Garden, Craftmanship, & Hobby courses - Central Oregon Community College

A Tour of Beers

Spend the afternoon tasting and exploring different beer styles with award-winning home brewer Steve Brainerd. Discover what makes each style unique and learn about off-flavors, judging, and evaluation of beers. The styles presented include light lager, amber, porter, Belgium, and IPA. This class is ideal for anyone interested in learning more about beer, especially the home brewer. Students must be 21 years of age or older and bring ID.

Saturday, October 28, 2023 | 11:00am-2:00pm PDT | Bend

Art of Acting

Immerse yourself in the Art of Acting! In this Master Class, join award-winning film and theater actor, director, and producer Derek Sitter, and discover the basic and advanced fundamentals of the acting craft. You will dive into the very specific methods used in the acting study to gain crucial knowledge to understand what it takes to be great. "Growth as an actor and a human being are synonymous." - Stella Adler

October 12, 2023 to November 16, 2023 | 6:00pm-8:00pm PDT | Bend

Basic/Intermediate Ikebana: Traditional Japanese Art of Flower Arranging

Create unique and beautiful Japanese Ikebana floral arrangements using techniques established over centuries. Historical, cultural and spiritual aspects of the practice accompany hands-on learning. After each meeting, students may take their arrangements home. Students may take the course for personal enrichment or to earn Sogetsu school certification toward a teacher's diploma. Perfect for beginners and those already familiar with Ikebana techniques.

October 15, 2023 to November 5, 2023 | 1:00pm-3:00pm PDT | Bend

Be a Radio DJ - Adult Orientation Session

Interested in going 'on-air'? In this hands-on course, learn the fundamentals of radio programming, including running the mixer and mics, planning for music/talk shows and developing your own style. All students must attend the first lecture session on Saturday from 9:00am -11:30am, followed by a studio session at KPOV.

Saturday, October 21, 2023 | 9:00am-11:30am PDT | Bend

Beekeeping for Beginners

Did you know that bees are responsible for one-third of every bite of food that goes into your mouth, and that the honeybee is actually an endangered species? You can help! In this class, join local Master Beekeeper Jimmy Wilkie to learn all about the basics of beekeeping in Central Oregon. This class will give you the knowledge you need to get started as a beekeeper, to support our natural environment, and to help grow the vital and endangered honeybee population!

November 7-16, 2023 | 5:00pm-7:00pm PST | Bend

Beer Brewing Sensory Analysis

Join BJCP Grand Master IV Beer Judge and 2011 National Homebrewer of the Year, Randy Scorby, to learn about the aroma and flavor components in beer, including off characteristics and what causes them. Improve your sensory experience by tasting samples and learning how to identify and describe different aspects of aroma and flavor. This class is open to anyone interested in learning more about beer.� Although homebrewers will benefit from this class, it is designed to cater to all beer enthusiasts. Must be 21 years of age or older and bring ID.

October 19-26, 2023 | 6:30pm-8:30pm PDT | Bend

Chess for the Absolute Beginner

Have you always wanted to learn to play chess, but you just never got around to it? Or would you like a refresher from a chess pro? In this 1-day workshop, join competitive chess player, Paul Chance, and learn the basics of playing chess. You will learn the rules of the game, how the pieces move, how to use chess notation, how to play a legal game, and much more. At the end of this class, you will be able to play a legal game and feel like you can hold your own!

Saturday, October 14, 2023 | 10:00am-1:00pm PDT | Bend

Design Your Own Xeriscape & Pollinator Garden

Do you want to make your yard beautiful and beneficial to pollinating insects and birds, while reducing your water bill? Do you want to capture water runoff to filter pollutants or create more wildlife habitat? Or do you want to increase the amount of fruits you harvest from your garden? This class will help students understand different designs of pollinator gardens and xeriscapes, and determine which plants will work best for them to benefit both ecosystems and gardeners.

Wednesday, February 28, 2024 | 6:30pm-8:00pm PST | Online

DIY Construction Framing Basics Made Easy

Using a mixture of lecture and hands-on application, your expert instructor will guide you through the importance of using scale and design before building, foundation basics, the components of a typical wall framing system, framing and truss layout, and roof system basics. You'll learn how to safely use construction tools and tricks of the trade for basic construction for homeowners. Great for students who want to learn about home/project-based construction. Tools provided. Students will need to provide their own construction-appropriate gloves.��

November 4-11, 2023 | 8:00am-2:00pm PDT | Redmond

DIY Home Electrical Made Easy

Take the confusion and risk out of DIY electrical projects. Learn safe and code-compliant electrical skills from your expert instructor. In this hands-on workshop, participants will be sizing circuits, troubleshooting, learning to change breakers, and sizing wire and wiring basic circuits with lights, outlets, 3-way switches, and more!

October 7-14, 2023 | 9:00am-1:00pm PDT | Redmond

Fabulous Fall Pumpkin Planters

Join expert flower gardener Julie Schiedler for a fun fall workshop! In this workshop students will create a fun pumpkin planter filled with a variety of succulents to take home and enjoy for months! Plants used are subject to availability. All materials provided. This is a popular workshop and will fill up fast. Register today!

Saturday, October 14, 2023 | 1:00pm-3:00pm PDT | Bend

Ham Radio Technician Licensing

This course will help you�prepare to pass the Ham Radio Licensed Technician test, and obtain your�license, so you�can begin your�journey into ham radio. The curriculum is primarily�guided self-study and is�approved by the Amateur Radio Relay League (ARRL) and the FCC. The class will end with a 45-minute licensing test.

Saturday, October 14, 2023 | 8:30am-5:30pm PDT | Bend
Saturday, November 11, 2023 | 8:30am-5:30pm PST | Bend

Handcraft Your Own Whiskey

Join professional whiskey distiller Rick Molitor at New Basin Distilling Company in Madras, Oregon to learn about the making of whiskey. This class will explore different types of grain, the milling, mashing, fermenting, distilling, and aging of whiskey. This is a hands-on class where participants will be helping with each step of the process and learn how to legally distill whiskey. Class includes lunch and the tasting of various types of whiskey. Participants will also leave with a whiskey tasting glass, distilling and tasting guidebook, 1-liter oak barrel, and 2 - 750ml of unaged whiskey to age and enjoy at home. Participants must be 21 years of age or older and show ID.

Sunday, January 28, 2024 | 1:00pm-6:00pm PST | Madras

Herbal Strategies: Increasing Digestive Health

Research indicates there is a direct link between our digestion and overall health. Join registered clinical herbalist Holly Hutton to learn about foods and herbs used throughout the world for attaining and maintaining digestive health. This class will explore current research and present a wide array of strategies that you can use to develop an individualized plan to benefit your health every day!

Wednesday, October 11, 2023 | 5:30pm-7:30pm PDT | Bend

Herbs for Supporting Memory & Brain Health

Are there herbs for memory that can improve brain health and prevent memory loss? Many herbs and spices that could support memory and brain health may already be sitting in your fridge or pantry. In this class, we will review the latest herbs, formulas, and research on brain health. Using some of these herbs, we will make various preparations you can take home and others you can prepare.

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 | 2:30pm-5:30pm PST | Bend

Holiday Wreath Making: Hand Tie a Greenery Wreath

Embrace the magic of the holidays by learning to hand-tie beautiful holiday greenery wreaths. In this hands-on class, you will learn step-by-step how to make and decorate holiday wreaths for your home or to give away as unique gifts. Students will create two wreaths and a swag using natural materials such as mixed greenery, pine cones, berries, bows, and more. Materials are included in the price of the course.

Saturday, November 18, 2023 | 1:00pm-4:00pm PST | Bend
Saturday, November 18, 2023 | 9:00am-12:00pm PST | Bend

Increase the Soil Health of Your Garden

Whether you are gardening in containers, raised beds, or in the land, there are tried-and-true strategies to increase the health of your garden's soil and your plants. In this class, students will learn how to grow more nutritious food, practice the four soil health principles, use cover crops in all seasons, and rotate crops and add amendments to cultivate more vibrant gardens.

Wednesday, March 13, 2024 | 6:30pm-8:00pm PDT | Online

Intro to Interior Design

Have you tried to design a space but weren't happy with the results? Have you seen a space you loved and wanted to create in your home? In this introductory course, join professional interior designer Florence McLaughlin to learn the simple rules for creating a beautiful space! Whether you want to design a small space or your entire house, you will come away with an understanding of how the best interiors are created, and the confidence to design like a pro! The registration deadline for this course is 10/2.

October 9, 2023 to November 13, 2023 | 5:30pm-7:00pm PDT | Bend

Introduction to Interior Design Online Course

Learn to transform plain living spaces into beautiful and functional rooms. This course will give you the knowledge to design a room floor to ceiling with understanding of color theory, industry trends, special arrangements, floor plans, design ideas, and interior design basics.

This course contains no sessions at this time.
Click here to register online through Ed2Go

Introduction to iPads

This course offers an in-depth look at all the things we can do on our iPad. By the end of this course students will be able to secure the information on their iPad, navigate through applications and web browsers safely, and learn the differences between an iPad and a smartphone. �

November 27, 2023 to December 7, 2023 | 9:00am-10:00am PST | Bend

Introduction to Smartphones

Smartphones can be used for so much more than making a call and sending a text message, they can revolutionize the way we live. In this course, learn how to navigate your phone with ease. Explore tips and tricks for using the built-in features, touchscreen, settings, shortcuts, applications, and more. Course will cover both Android and Apple phone features.

January 22, 2024 to February 1, 2024 | 9:00am-10:00am PST | Bend

Introduction to Smartphones: Full Series

Phones are used for so much more than making a call and sending text messages, they have revolutionized the way we lead our daily lives. In the first session, learn the basic features of navigation and use of your Smartphone. The second session in the series will take a deeper dive into the hardware, different modes of communication, privacy, security, and other advanced features. Sign-up for both sessions in the series at a discounted rate, or take either of the single sessions. Class will cover both Android and Apple phone features.

January 22, 2024 to February 15, 2024 | 9:00am-10:00am PST | Bend

Learn to Sew: The Basics of Beginning Sewing

Topics in this beginning techniques class will include tips on which stitch to use, types of needles and when to use them, adjusting tension, and different types of seams for various applications.

Saturday, November 4, 2023 | 10:00am-2:00pm PDT | Bend
Saturday, December 9, 2023 | 10:00am-2:00pm PST | Bend

Macram�: Let's Get Knotty!

Macram� is making a comeback! Macram� is an easy method for crafting textile pieces that can be both functional and beautiful. In this class, join crafter Melanie Bills and get started with macram�! During class, you will make a macram� plant hanger that will look great in your home! All supplies provided, and no experience necessary.

Saturday, October 21, 2023 | 10:00am-12:00pm PDT | Bend

Make Free, Nutrient-rich Garden Soil: Worm Bins and Composting Systems

Learn how to build your own compost system and create a valuable organic soil amendment from waste in your yard! Participants will explore different structures and techniques to composting in the high desert, and will learn how to care for worm bin systems in their own homes, in order to create their own free nutrient-rich soil and fertilizers.

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 | 6:30pm-8:00pm PST | Online

MFG 103: Welding Technology I

Looking for a new hobby or to hone your welding skills? This course will cover introductory level skills used in structural plate welding in accordance to AWS D1.1 Structural Steel Welding code. Introduces basic welding processes, safety, nomenclature, and equipment operation for introduction to perform 1F and 2F weldments using shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) and gas metal arc welding (GMAW) on mild steel. It includes relevant safety topics and an introduction to shielded metal arc welding. Shop hours may be limited as space allows. All students must attend the mandatory safety orientation class.

September 25, 2023 to November 30, 2023 | 9:00am-8:00pm PDT | Redmond

MFG 110: Manufacturing Processes I

Introduces material removal operations emphasizing safe operational practices. Includes basic part layout, hand tools, drill press, bandsaw, manual milling, and manual lathe processes, with an emphasis on production speeds and feeds.

This course contains no sessions at this time.

Mushroom Foraging for Beginners

Mushroom foraging is a popular pursuit in the Northwest. Learn where to search for edible mushrooms and how to identify common wild mushrooms and poisonous species. Discover more facts about fungi in your backyard! Please note this class has some crossover material with the general foraging class.

Wednesday, March 27, 2024 | 6:00pm-8:00pm PDT | Online

Photo Fun: Make Your Holiday Card

Holiday cards are fun to give out to friends and family. This year, surprise your family and friends with a personalized card using your own photos. Professional organizer and photo coach Debbie Bauman will share examples of holiday card layout ideas, take you step-by-step through selecting an online platform; selecting, uploading, and accessing your digital photos; and will work with you to create a beautiful, personalized card.

Saturday, October 28, 2023 | 10:00am-12:00pm PDT | Bend

Plan Your Vegetable Garden!

Growing vegetables in Central Oregon can be a real challenge for novice and longtime gardeners alike. Before the weather warms up and entices you outside to dig in the dirt, come learn how to plan a more successful garden from longtime Bend resident and veteran gardener, Kathy Gault. It's not too early to plan for a great garden!

Saturday, February 17, 2024 | 1:00pm-4:00pm PST | Bend
Saturday, February 24, 2024 | 1:00pm-4:00pm PST | Redmond

PNW Cuisine: A Full Series

Join Chef Candy on a gastronomical tour of the Pacific Northwest. Each course is designed with a delicious menu, using ingredients specific to and sourced from PNW. Enjoy fresh coho salmon; tasty snow crab, grass fed ribeye steaks and Oregon lamb shoulder. This course will awaken your culinary curiosity while learning about the abundant foods and products of the Pacific Northwest. Register for any of the stand-alone classes, or the full series at a discounted price.

November 4, 2023 to December 9, 2023 | 10:00am-1:00pm PDT | Bend

PNW Cuisine: Braised Lamb Stew

Grass-fed lamb shoulder, sourced locally from Anderson Ranch, is the centerpiece to this braised stew. Cooked slowly to maximize flavor and tenderness, this dish will be accompanied with a gastrique made from PNW Marionberries, creamy horseradish mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. A delicious meal for colder fall evenings. Register for any of the stand-alone classes, or the full series at a discounted price.

Saturday, November 4, 2023 | 10:00am-1:00pm PDT | Bend

PNW Cuisine: Coho Salmon

Coho Salmon is the quintessential PNW ingredient, most abundant in coastal waters from Alaska to central Oregon. This mild flavored fish will pair well with hazelnut brown butter, sweet and sour Brussel sprouts. A meal any fish lover can enjoy. Register for any of the stand-alone classes, or the full series at a discounted price.

Saturday, November 11, 2023 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend

PNW Cuisine: Ribeye Steak with Pinot Noir Reduction

Ribeye is a flavorful, tender cut of beef with plenty of marbling. Using local, grass-fed beef, learn to cook this flavorful, tender cut of beef. Paired with an Oregon Pinot Noir reduction, Tillamook cheese and locally grown mushrooms, and you will have created a wonder PNW meal to impress your friends and family. Register for any of the stand-alone classes, or the full series at a discounted price.

Saturday, December 2, 2023 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend

PNW Cuisine: Snow Crab Fettucine

Snow crabs are known for their complex briny, salty, savory and sweet flavor. Cooked in a lemony butter sauce and paired with homemade fettucine noodles, seasonal vegetables and you have created a classic PNW culinary experience to share with family and friends. Register for any of the stand-alone classes, or the full series at a discounted price.

Saturday, December 9, 2023 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend

Printed Photo Organization 101

Do you have boxes of printed family photos gathering dust in your closet? Join professional organizer and photo coach Debbie Bauman in this hands-on course focused on sorting and organizing your printed photos so you can actually enjoy them! You will learn how to identify your photo needs and goals and develop a strategy to achieve those goals. This course is excellent for those overwhelmed with organizing their boxes, bins, and bags of printed photos and outdated media.

October 10-17, 2023 | 5:30pm-7:30pm PDT | Bend

Ready, Set, Knit!

Get ready to embark on a journey into the world of knitting! In this course you'll learn how to mindfully prepare for a new project, master essential knitting skills, and implement techniques to give your project a professional finish. By the end of this course, not only will you have a fabulous accessory to ward off the winter chill in Bend, but you'll also possess the knowledge, skills, and confidence to keep making the knit items you always wanted.

November 7-21, 2023 | 5:30pm-7:00pm PST | Bend

Sewing Basics: Get to Know Your Machine

This course is a great way to get started on your sewing adventure. Bring your machine and owner's manual and learn common features shared by all standard sewing machines, as well as some features specific to your model.

Supper Series: Assorted Tapas & Paella

Welcome to the COCC Community Education Dinner Series. Join Chef Candy Argondizza as she demonstrates the technique of cooking Paella and assorted tapas, in our state-of-the-art demonstration classroom at Cascade Culinary Institute.

Sunday, February 11, 2024 | 5:00pm-8:00pm PST | Bend

Supper Series: Spring Pea Agnolotti

Welcome to the COCC Community Education Dinner Series. Join Chef Candy Argondizza as she demonstrates the technique of making fresh agnolotti, a flattened pasta from the Piedmont region of Italy, in our state-of-the-art demonstration classroom at Cascade Culinary Institute.

Sunday, May 5, 2024 | 5:00pm-8:00pm PDT | Bend

Tequila vs. Mezcal: A Breakdown

All tequilas are mezcals, but not all mezcals are tequila! Join professional distiller, Rick Molitor, from New Basin Distilling Company located in Madras, OR, and learn all about tequila and mezcal. While we sample different varieties, you will explore the history, distilling process, and unique characteristics of the different spirits made from agave. The cost includes a tasting kit that will provide you with samples, a tasting guide, and a whisky-tasting glass for blind nosing and tasting to determine your favorite. Kits will be available to pick up at a COCC campus near you, the week before the class runs. No kits will be provided outside the state of Oregon. Participating students must be 21 years of age or older.

Sunday, November 5, 2023 | 4:00pm-6:00pm PDT | Online

Totally Tomatoes! Growing Tips for Central Oregon

Tomatoes are the most popular garden crop in the U.S., yet tomatoes are considered by many Central Oregon gardeners to be notoriously difficult to grow. In truth, tomatoes, like all plants, have basic requirements that can be met, even in our high desert climate. This class will give you the tools to grow tomatoes more successfully!

Saturday, April 6, 2024 | 1:00pm-3:30pm PDT | Redmond
Saturday, April 13, 2024 | 1:00pm-3:30pm PDT | Bend

Traversing the Globe: A Full Culinary Techniques Series

Join professionally trained chef, Candy Argondizza, on a 5-part culinary techniques course. Each week will have a unique menu and recipes, from all corners of the globe. Chef Candy will pair a menu and culinary techniques unique to each region in the series, which include the Middle East, France, China, Italy, and the United States.

January 6, 2024 to March 2, 2024 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend

Traversing the Globe: Chinese Steamed Pork Bao Buns

Bao Buns, also known as "steamed buns" are a delicious, warm, fluffy treat of stuffing wrapped inside a sweet, white dough. Chef Candy will guide you through creating your own dumpling-like dough, stuffed with a delicious pork filling, and paired with traditional cucumbers and charred broccoli. Bring the heart of China into your own kitchen with this new recipe.

Saturday, January 6, 2024 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend

Traversing the Globe: French Crispy Trout Grenobloise

In the realm of classic French cuisine, any Grenobloise preparation is served in a sauce of browned butter, capers, parsley, and lemon. This crispy trout recipe is paired with Pomme Darphin, a traditional French potato pancake. This international delight is sure to impress friends and family.

Saturday, January 20, 2024 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend

Traversing the Globe: Italian Potato Gnocchi

Join Chef Candy and learn to make the authentic Italian classic, potato gnocchi. This delicate potato "pasta" or dumpling, will bathe in a bath of butter sage broth, topped with a prosciutto crisp. Paired with seasonal roasted vegetables, this dinner is sure to please your family and friends.

Saturday, February 3, 2024 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend

Traversing the Globe: Middle Eastern Lamb Meatballs

Want something to warm you up on these frigid winter nights? Join Chef Candy and create a stew of delicious lamb meatballs with barberries, yogurt, and herbs. This�comforting bowl�is a stick-to-your-ribs kind of meal and will be served with roasted cauliflower and hazelnut salad. Show off your new international cuisine to your friends and family.

Saturday, February 17, 2024 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend

Traversing the Globe: United States Pan-Seared Pork Tenderloin

Pork tenderloin is one of the most tender cuts of pork. It is as versatile as it is tasty. Chef Candy will demonstrate how to obtain a good pan-sear, and finish in a hot oven for a delicious, easy to prepare go to dinner any time of the year. Sliced pork medallions will be complimented with a dried fruit chutney, alongside horseradish smashed sweet potatoes.

Saturday, March 2, 2024 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend

Understanding Bitcoin Software

This course will provide an in-depth analysis of Bitcoin software. Students will learn how to buy and store their own Bitcoin, learn everything they need to know about the Bitcoin protocol, and how to run Bitcoin mining software. The instructor, Ebrahim Makda, is certified by the Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA), receiving an Industry 4.0 Silver Certification in Electrical Systems; as well as a certified Bitcoin Miner Repair Technician through Texas State Technical College.

February 19-29, 2024 | 9:00am-10:00am PST | Bend

Whiskey Appreciation: Bourbon

Join professional whiskey distiller Rick Molitor from New Basin Distilling Company to learn everything you need to know about bourbon. Rick will discuss the process of making bourbon and lead you through the exploration of flavor notes and the best strategies for enjoying bourbon. Participate in a blind taste test with a variety of bourbons to gain a deeper understanding of your favorite bourbon profile. Class cost includes a tasting kit that consists of a course/tasting guide, six-2 ounce bourbon samples, tasting cups, and a Glencairn Whiskey glass for future enjoyment. Kits will be available to pick up at a COCC campus near you, the week before the class runs. No kits will be provided outside the state of Oregon. Participating students must be 21 years of age or older.

Sunday, October 8, 2023 | 4:00pm-6:00pm PDT | Online

Whiskey Appreciation: Scotch

Join professional whiskey distiller Rick Molitor from New Basin Distilling Company located in Madras, OR, and learn about Scotch whiskey. While we sample different varieties of Scotch whiskey we will explore some history, the distilling process, and the unique characteristics of the different regions of Scotland. You will receive a tasting kit including six samples of Scotch whiskey, a tasting guide, and a whiskey tasting glass. Kits will be available to pick up at a COCC campus near you, the week before the class runs. No kits will be provided outside the state of Oregon. Participating students must be 21 years of age or older.

Sunday, December 3, 2023 | 4:00pm-6:00pm PST | Online

Offerings