After signing themselves in at the front desk, Middle School U students, entering grades 6-9, are greeted by MSU staff and challenged to solve the daily puzzle. They’ll then pop into the common area where they can choose from a variety of games and activities before heading to their crafting courses. In these courses, students jam out to tunes while exploring techniques to create art that interests them! All while experienced staff build a comfortable and safe social environment where students are encouraged to explore and express themselves.
Here are our summer 2026 crafty course recommendations.
Photography
Everyone’s got a camera in their pocket these days — have your student learn the skills and techniques to turn this hobby into an art form. Using their own phone or one of the MSU tablets, they take photos and experiment with editing software. Students learn how to make images stand out through the use of perspective, lighting, movement, shadows, and tone. They will have prints to take home and use in their other art projects at the end of the course!
When this course is happening:
- July 27-31at Shorewood Hills Elementary School, Madison
Dyeing Arts
Think dyeing is only tie-dye? Think again! From batik to experimenting with screen printing and block printing, students discover how to add unique colors and patterns to fabrics using a variety of tools and methods in this course. They create personalized fabric pieces and experiment with mixing colors, textures, and designs. Whether dyeing a scarf, printing a custom t-shirt, or creating a one-of-a-kind art piece, students take home newfound skills in self-expression and artistic exploration.
When this course is happening:
- June 22-26 at Badger Ridge Middle School, Verona
- August 3-7 at Shorewood Hills Elementary School, Madison
Collages
Sign up your middle schooler for a stress-free atmosphere where they can have time to be creative and explore different styles, textures, and colors! They will spend time searching for interesting images and practice skillfully arranging them to create surrealist dreamscapes. Students grow their sense for patterns and resourcefulness, all while having fun designing one-of-a-kind collages.
When this course is happening:
- July 20-24 at Shorewood Hills Elementary School, Madison
Woodcarving
Whether your student is a beginner or has some crafting experience, this course is the perfect way to explore the world of woodworking. Through expert instruction, with both woodcarving and woodburning techniques, students develop the design, handling, and patience to create unique pieces.
When this course is happening:
- June 22-26 at Badger Ridge Elementary School, Verona
- July 6-10 at Badger Ridge Elementary School, Verona
Soaps, Lotions, and Candles
Using natural ingredients, custom scents, and colors, students design personalized items to use for themselves or gift to others. Under the guidance of caring staff, they explore the science behind each product and experiment with a variety of safe ingredients. By the end of the week, students will leave with a small collection of unique, homemade creations and the skills to keep crafting on their own!
When this course is happening:
- June 29-July 2 at Badger Ridge Elementary School, Verona
- August 3-7 at Shorewood Hills Elementary School, Madison
To register for programs at MSU, visit wisconsinyouthcompany.org/register for more information, or check out all the MSU courses available this year at wisconsinyouthcompany.org/summer-camp/middle-school-u.
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