Programs and Events
Our programs and events highlight the wide range of the Avenir’s current exhibitions, as well as guest presenters on unique subjects. Join us for these free, public lectures on an intriguing array of textile topics!
Make and Mend
First Saturday of Every Month*
2026 dates: Aug.1, Sept. 5, Oct. 3, Nov. 7, Dec. 5
*No Make & Mend in January or July 2026
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The Linda L. Carlson Classroom, Rm 157
Avenir Museum
Does your beloved sweater have a hole? Do your jeans need a patch?
Drop in to our monthly Make & Mend Open Studio, where we welcome all textile-based projects! Whether you’re into upcycling, mending, fabric DIY, cosplay, stuffy repair, quilting, or anything else textiles, this is the perfect space to get creative.
Basic materials will be provided, but if you have specific fabric, thread, or tools you’d like to use, feel free to bring them along! Please note, this is not an alteration service; we want to help you build the skills and knowledge to mend and maintain your own clothes and accessories!
Avenir Museum Bug Party!
Saturday, June 27
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Avenir Museum of Design and Merchandising
216 E. Lake Street, Fort Collins, Colorado
Join us for a fun-filled Saturday in celebration of International Insect Week! Stamp print your own bug-themed handkerchief, join us for collage and coloring, enter giveaways, and enjoy some fun snacks! Plus, meet an array of insect ambassadors and community organizations, such as the Butterfly Pavilion and the Northern Colorado Wildlife Center, among others.
Weaving in Mexico: Alexandro Eliseo Martinez Ruis
Wednesday, July 1
12 p.m. – 1 p.m.
Room 157
Avenir Museum of Design and Merchandising
216 E. Lake Street, Fort Collins, Colorado
Learn about the practice of rug making from a Zapotec weaver!
Alexandro Eliseo Martinez Ruis and his sisters Nancy, Cocorro, Lorena and Fanny, are part of a large family of Zapotec weavers. Alex learned the art of weaving from his father, and continues to create rugs on his father’s 100-year-old loom, incorporating some of his original designs. The entire family participates in the process— from raising the sheep and washing and dyeing the wool, to designing and hand weaving the final product. They use a variety of wools sourced from Oaxaca, New Zealand, and England and dye thee fibers using natural materials.
Join us for an afternoon presentation from Alex on this rich weaving tradition.
Upcoming Events
Past Programs, Museum Hours and Contact Info
