the Art Barn: nourish Your Creativity
A welcoming environment designed for artful play, inspiration, and laughter awaits you at the Art Barn.
Relax, Learn, & Create
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 myself and skilled teachers we bring in, and by renting our space for private small groups to plan their own Quilt Retreats, workshops, or art adventures. Whether you're looking for classes or a place to relax and create, the ArtBarn is the perfect destination for your next creative journey.
Our History
In 2021, we purchased this small farm north of Bigfork, MT, and began by restoring the farmhouse and a small tool shed. The following year we started work on this former carriage and machinery barn - our dream of creating an art space in Bigfork inspired us through the hard work, and we are thrilled to welcome sewists, painters, writers, and crafters to the ArtBarnMT.
Our Facilities
The ArtBarn is designed for small groups - a dedicated space to learn and expand your creativity. We took extra care when doing electrical work to ensure we can accommodate sewing machines, irons, and cooking! The facility features a galley kitchen, a connected sleeping space for 2, and a full bathroom. Additionally, we offer options for Quilt Retreats with a cabin, Safari Tent, and Camper hook-ups available if you want to bring a group for quilting classes or extended stay retreats.
Welcome to theArtBarnMT
WELCOME!
Sewing, Painting, Crafting....
Sewing, Painting, Crafting....
I'm Merrie Ford, and my husband Tim and 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 adore the Bigfork community and its ongoing support for the Arts in various forms.
While Tim enjoys restoring old buildings and a 1940's wooden boat, I love to gather quilters an
I'm Merrie Ford, and my husband Tim and 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 adore the Bigfork community and its ongoing support for the Arts in various forms.
While Tim enjoys restoring old buildings and a 1940's wooden boat, I love to gather quilters and sewists together and provide times of creative encouragement. I believe that most people are more creative than they think, and time spent working with our hands—using colors, fabric and thread, paint, and paper—can be one of the most nourishing and creative activities we can engage in.
So, take a class or grab some friends and reserve a day just for you —you'll make connections, learn new skills, and hopefully return again and again.
Sewing, Painting, Crafting....
Sewing, Painting, Crafting....
Sewing, Painting, Crafting....
I will be teaching a variety of Sewing Lessons, Quilting Classes, and Hand Stitching Classes at the ArtBarn studios. 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 fo
I will be teaching a variety of Sewing Lessons, Quilting Classes, and Hand Stitching Classes at the ArtBarn studios. 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 and gather a few friends for a relaxing day of crafting, painting, writing, or whatever! If you're searching for space to spread out and get a little messy- this is the perfect place!
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 your o
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 your own friends & food. - Teachers can reserve the space and line up your own students for a Watercolor, Writing, or Crafting workshop. Interested in our Quilt Retreats? Ask us about bringing your camper or reserving the cabin or safari tent for an extended getaway.
nourish Your Creativity at theArtBarnMT
Are you ready to try something new, get a little messy, and leave feeling inspired? We offer an inspirational environment for creatives of all levels - Come make something with us at the ArtBarn studios!
Contact Us
Better yet, see us in person!
Call to schedule a time to visit the art barn studios for exciting Quilting Classes, inspiring Quilt Retreats, or to learn through our Sewing Lessons. If you're searching for a place to learn new skills, this is the perfect opportunity!
