Decorating on a Budget Free Class

A new free class is being offered, "Decorating on a Shoestring Budget," to enable residents to decorate their homes stylishly "with champagne taste and a beer budget." Classes will be held on Tuesdays from October 9 - 30, at the Ironbound Recreation Center in the East Ward and on Wednesdays from October 3 - 24, at the St. Peter's Recreation Center in the South Ward. Both classes will run from 11am-1pm. Space is limited, so participants should register in advance at one of the designated sites.

The class will teach the "stylish, mature adult home decorators" how to spice up their homes on a small budget. Highlights include teaching participants how to make drapery, tablecloths, napkins, and slipcovers, along with trips to fabric, antique and thrift stores to acquire quality materials at cheaper prices. The trips to various shops will be lessons on how to select slightly used items to enhance décor.

The class will be taught by J. Wesley Tann. He was the first African-American dress designer in New York's garment industry and designed maternity clothing for First Lady Jackie Kennedy; dresses for actress Diahann Carroll and famous opera diva Leontyne Price.

"With the high cost of furniture and fabrics there is a great need for people to improve their homes without spending a fortune," Mr. Tann said. "We'll teach students how to upholster simple chairs, drapes, and show how to take old furniture, paint it, and bring it up to date. Mr. Tann has also taught youth and adult etiquette classes for the Division of Recreation & Cultural Affairs. "I'm giving back to the community and teaching something that I really enjoy."

For more information, contact the Department of Neighborhood and Recreational Services' Division of Recreation & Cultural Affairs (DORCA) Central Office at (973) 733-6454.