Discover the Art of Creativity
Unleash your inner artist and explore the world of theArtBarnMT.
About theArtBarnMT
Our Mission
At the ArtBarnMT, our mission is to provide a space for creatives to gather and grow, learn new skills and connect with the community. We do this in two ways: by offering workshops and classes taught by teachers that we bring in, and by renting our space for private small groups to plan their own workshops, retreats, or art adventures.
Our History
We purchased this small farm north of Bigfork, MT in 2021 - first restoring the farmhouse and then a small tool shed. We began work on this former carriage/ machinery barn in 2022, which has been an extensive labor of love. The dream of providing a Creative Space in Bigfork got us through the hard work, and we are so excited to welcome sewists, painters, writers and crafters to the ArtBarn.
Opening Summer of 2024.
Our Facilities
theArtBarnMT facility is designed for small groups - a dedicated space to learn and expand your Creativity. We took extra care when doing electrical work to make sure we can handle sewing machines, irons and cooking! The ArtBarn has a galley kitchen, connected sleeping space for 2, and full bathroom. The property also has a cabin, Safari Tent, and Camper hook-ups available- if you want to bring a group!
Welcome to theArtBarnMT
WELCOME!
Sewing, Painting, Crafting....
Sewing, Painting, Crafting....
I'm Merrie Ford, and my husband Tim & I grew up in NW Montana. After many moves, we returned to the valley in 2021 and began work on this 100 year old farm. We love the Bigfork community and the way it has always supported the Arts in a variety of ways.
While Tim enjoys restoring old buildings (& a 1940's Wooden Boat), I love to gath
I'm Merrie Ford, and my husband Tim & I grew up in NW Montana. After many moves, we returned to the valley in 2021 and began work on this 100 year old farm. We love the Bigfork community and the way it has always supported the Arts in a variety of ways.
While Tim enjoys restoring old buildings (& a 1940's Wooden Boat), I love to gather quilters and sewists for workshops, sew days and times of creative encouragement. I believe that most people are more creative than they think, and time spent working with our hands- with colors, fabric and thread, paint, & paper.... can be one of the most nourishing and creative things we can do.
I am starting out small with the class schedule, and plan to expand in 2025 to host week-long Quilt Camp events and retreats.
So take a class, or grab some friends and reserve a day just for you - you'll make connections, learn a new skill, and hopefully return again & again.
Sewing, Painting, Crafting....
Sewing, Painting, Crafting....
Sewing, Painting, Crafting....
I will be teaching a variety of Sewing, Quilting, & Hand Stitching Classes.
Some options include:
- Stitched Stones- applique rocks
- Flathead Fish - fabric collage
- Beginner Sewing- Apron class
- Color Wheel Exploration
-Holiday Pillows & small projects
- Japanese Rice Bag
- Improv Quilting for Beginners
But your creative time is not limited t
I will be teaching a variety of Sewing, Quilting, & Hand Stitching Classes.
Some options include:
- Stitched Stones- applique rocks
- Flathead Fish - fabric collage
- Beginner Sewing- Apron class
- Color Wheel Exploration
-Holiday Pillows & small projects
- Japanese Rice Bag
- Improv Quilting for Beginners
But your creative time is not limited to what I offer _ you are invited to reserve the space for a private group event, plan a retreat and bring your own teacher, OR just gather a few friends for a relaxing day of crafting, painting, writing or whatever!
Options for Using our Space
Sewing, Painting, Crafting....
Options for Using our Space
We offer several options for a Creative Experience:
- Check our Class Schedule & reserve a spot!
- Grab some friends and reserve the entire space for a private Crafting or Sewing Day.
- Want to work through an Online class with friends? We have a projector & big screen!
- Live Local? You can rent the space for a Day Retreat and bring in
We offer several options for a Creative Experience:
- Check our Class Schedule & reserve a spot!
- Grab some friends and reserve the entire space for a private Crafting or Sewing Day.
- Want to work through an Online class with friends? We have a projector & big screen!
- Live Local? You can rent the space for a Day Retreat and bring in a teacher from out of town & reserve the ArtBarn sleeping space.
- Teachers- reserve the space and line up your own students for a Watercolor, Writing or Crafting workshop
- Want to retreat for a number of days? Ask us about bringing your camper, reserving the cabin or safari tent. (We also rent the House a few times a year to Quilt Groups for week-long retreats. Inquire well in advance for these limited time slots).
Unleash Your Creativity at theArtBarnMT
Are you ready to unleash your inner artist? Look no further than theArtBarnMT. Our space provides a supportive and inspiring environment for creatives of all levels. Come make something with us!
Contact Us
Better yet, see us in person!
Call to schedule a time to visit.
