​"Thank you for the delightful presentation this morning. You are an EXCELLENT educator….very clear, very helpful and patient." - Ruth

"Such an amazing class!  Pace was perfect and I learned a lot and felt the creative joy!!!" - Diane

"Thank you for the wonderful class last night. You are such an enthusiastic and talented teacher. I look forward to many more classes with you." - Lynne

Read more testimonials at the bottom of this page!

Live Online Classes are Fun, Personal, & Informative.

I'm delighted to offer you a wide variety of live online classes conducted through Zoom. 

If you're wondering what to expect during a Zoom class, here's the break down:
  • It will be recorded. So you don't have to take notes.  Just relax and rewatch at your leisure.
  • You can have your camera on or off.  Totally up to you and your comfort level.
  • I teach the whole class period.  We work in a cycle.  I demo.  You do.  We discuss.  Repeat.
  • Sharing is optional.  If you want to share with others, you can.  If you don't want to, you don't have to.
  • Chat with others and make connections.  You can chat with other students (and me) via the typed chat box.
  • Ask questions in real time.  I have a welcome-interrupting policy.  If you're lost, need a little bit of help, or have a problem, you can simply yell out.  Help is on the way!
  • My Zoom classes are as close to an in-person class experience as you can get without actually being in-person!​​
Upcoming classes are listed below.  I always announce new classes in my weekly newsletter first.  If you want to be in the know, sign up for the weekly mailing list and get an email from me every Friday!

Upcoming Live Online Classes

Design Boot Camp Online: LEVEL 1 - 5 weeks - 12pm-2pm

$650.00

February 7, 2023 - March 7, 2023. We will meet twice a week (Tuesdays and Fridays 12pm-2pm EST) over Zoom.


Not for the faint of heart. This is a serious five-week art workshop that will challenge, inspire, encourage, and educate you!


  • Do you have trouble articulating what it is that's wrong or "off" with a piece you don't like?
  • Do you struggle with decision making while you're making art?
  • Do you have trouble figuring out if a piece of artwork is done?
  • Are you searching for the words and the language to be able to discuss art?
  • Do you make a lot of things that simply don't feel "finished?"


If you answered, "yes" to any of those questions, then Design Boot Camp might be for you.


What is Design Boot Camp?


Design Boot Camp is a five-week-long art workshop that will challenge, inspire, encourage, and educate you! I will teach you about each of the Elements & Principles of Design. Through a series of art exercises, we will explore each element and principle and then learn how to combine them together to create compositions that sing. You will learn a lot about yourself over the five-weeks. But you have to put in the work to get the results.


It's called "Boot Camp," because I am going to kick your artistic behind (in a nice way, of course). This course is intended for those who are serious about their art and looking for the tools to push their work to the next level. There will be a lot of work during class. It's Boot Camp.


When is Design Boot Camp?


Join me for five weeks of intensive learning. We will meet twice a week over Zoom. In between classes there will be homework, as well as a dedicated Slack channel where you can leave questions and get some help during "off hours," as well as chat with other students. 


ALSO: You can watch this recording of a webinar all about this course!


Class space is extremely limited to ensure that each student gets plenty of personal attention.


Payment plans are available. Contact me for more info.


There are no refunds once payment has been made.


Testimonials


  • "I felt like I learned the secret language of artists, and that made me more confident and free."
  • "The wealth of information that Julie shared with us during the two hour sessions over the course of Bootcamp. She was so prepared and is such an excellent teacher - I knew that I was in good hands."
  • "This is the toughest class I have taken in my art journey-so far. And it is the best class because it kept me out of my comfort zone the entire five weeks. The format inspired me to take chances and create some different art with the help from the group. I love the longer timeline, letting ideas "sit" and having time to explore by doing homework was helpful. Will definitely take again or the next level."
  • "I feel like my journey as an artist has just begun, despite doing art for years. Julie is a master artist AND teacher, a true professional! I hope there will be a Design Boot Camp 2 next year!"
  • "I loved the assignments. Based on one of the articles l read by James Clear, l am a person always in motion not in action. I read articles, blogs, watch youtube videos always saying that l'm learning something. Your assignments made me actually put what you were teaching us into action."
  • "This class was worth every penny! I have LOTS of work to do, but I feel like I now have the tools to carry me forward to where I would like to be."
  • "Zoom was fabulous - having all of my supplies at my fingertips was perfect. Loved the ability to review my notes and digest the lesson given before the next one was presented. Interacting with the other students was a great part of the learning experience. I have said this before and I will say it again - you are an extraordinary teacher with incredible knowledge about art that you share in a clear, professional way. Only you could accomplish what you did in the class - you get right to the point and right to the heart of the task. Over the years you have added much joy to my artistic endeavors. Thank you!"
  • "The best class I’ve ever taken, in-person or on-line — thanks!"
Shop

Mixed Media Collage: Embellishing a Basic Design - July 22

$100.00

Sold out

This is a two-and-a-half hour live online class conducted through Zoom on Friday, July 22, 2022 starting at 7pm EST. We will be covering:


  • 4 "Basic Designs" that always work.
  • How to bring your personal style to those designs.
  • How to create variation and interest within the design structure.
  • How to work in layers.
  • How to work on multiple pieces at the same time.


Please have the following supplies available to yourself during class:


  • Collage Paper -- If you do not have papers, I have a limited number of scrap packs available for $35.
  • Square Substrates -- I'm using heavy paper cut to 6x6.
  • Scissors
  • Matte Medium or other collage glue
  • Favorite embellishments: tags, stamped images, ephemera, trinkets, etc.
  • Favorite mark making tools: pens, markers, pencils, stamps, stencils, etc.
  • Acrylic Paint in a few favorite colors plus black and white
  • Paintbrushes
  • Credit Card or Colour Shaper
  • Optional: Apron, Heat Gun, brayer, cosmetic wedge sponges


A link to download a recording of class will be sent to you afterwards. You can download and keep the recording forever. If you cannot attend class, you will still be sent the recording.


If you've never experienced Zoom before, here are links to helpful videos:
Shop

Screenprinting at Home Replay Download

$100.00

"Thanks for an awesome class Julie! You're an excellent teacher. I came away with a much better understanding of the process and some good ideas for the future."


"Thanks for demystifying screen printing -- so much simpler than I thought, and no fancy anything required! I can't wait to start playing!"


Would you like to be able to screenprint at home? In this class, I will show you how I create custom screenprints at home with some very basic equipment. One of the many benefits of screenprinting is that it's an easy way to reproduce an image multiple times. In just four hours, I will show you how to set up your own home screenprinting studio (that tucks away into in a box or drawer).


This is a RECORDING of a previous live online class. After making this purchase, you will receive a link to download a copy of the live recording. It's FOUR HOURS of video.


Read my blog post about class HERE.
Shop

Composition Class: Symmetry & Asymmetry (REPLAY)

$100.00

You are purchasing a REPLAY of this live online class.


This is part of a series of live online classes all about compositions that work. During this four-hour mixed media painting class we will take a deep dive into ASYMMETRICAL and SYMMETRICAL design. You might be surprised by which type of design you prefer to work with -- and what those terms actually mean. Through a series of exercises, you will create several abstract mixed media paintings incorporating collage.


I got some lovely comments after class from students on Facebook:


"You know after Bootcamp I thought Balzer Designs could not surprise me but catching up with symmetry & asymmetry class I have to say/ Julie you are really getting better and better your craft.

Be proud.

In a art world where people just teach you to copy what they do. Finally someone teaching people paths to do their thing."- Jana


"Julie. I just want to say a big “thank you” for the composition class yesterday. It really gave me some great theory and has caused me already to look at my work differently. You explain things well and have a wonderful style of teaching. Thanks much!!!!"​​​​​​​ -Robin


Please have available to you during class:


  • paper for sketching
  • pencil or pen
  • substrates you like working on -- ex: watercolor paper, drawing paper, canvas, art journal, etc.
  • collage paper
  • collage adhesive of your choice
  • black and white paper
  • glue stick
  • acrylic paint (6-10 colors including black and white)
  • paintbrushes
  • jar or container of water for brushes
  • palette paper or paper plate
  • scissors
  • a piece of ribbon or string
  • optional: apron, heat gun, paper towel, baby wipes, favorite mark making tools, craft knife & cutting mat, ruler
Shop

Design Boot Camp Online: LEVEL 1 - 5 weeks - 7pm-9pm

$650.00

February 7, 2023 - March 7, 2023. We will meet twice a week (Tuesdays and Fridays 7pm-9pm EST) over Zoom.


Not for the faint of heart. This is a serious five-week art workshop that will challenge, inspire, encourage, and educate you!


  • Do you have trouble articulating what it is that's wrong or "off" with a piece you don't like?
  • Do you struggle with decision making while you're making art?
  • Do you have trouble figuring out if a piece of artwork is done?
  • Are you searching for the words and the language to be able to discuss art?
  • Do you make a lot of things that simply don't feel "finished?"


If you answered, "yes" to any of those questions, then Design Boot Camp might be for you.


What is Design Boot Camp?


Design Boot Camp is a five-week-long art workshop that will challenge, inspire, encourage, and educate you! I will teach you about each of the Elements & Principles of Design. Through a series of art exercises, we will explore each element and principle and then learn how to combine them together to create compositions that sing. You will learn a lot about yourself over the five-weeks. But you have to put in the work to get the results.


It's called "Boot Camp," because I am going to kick your artistic behind (in a nice way, of course). This course is intended for those who are serious about their art and looking for the tools to push their work to the next level. There will be a lot of work during class. It's Boot Camp.


When is Design Boot Camp?


Join me for five weeks of intensive learning. We will meet twice a week over Zoom. In between classes there will be homework, as well as a dedicated Slack channel where you can leave questions and get some help during "off hours," as well as chat with other students. 


ALSO: You can watch this recording of a webinar all about this course!


Class space is extremely limited to ensure that each student gets plenty of personal attention.


Payment plans are available. Contact me for more info.


There are no refunds once payment has been made.


Testimonials


  • "I felt like I learned the secret language of artists, and that made me more confident and free."
  • "The wealth of information that Julie shared with us during the two hour sessions over the course of Bootcamp. She was so prepared and is such an excellent teacher - I knew that I was in good hands."
  • "This is the toughest class I have taken in my art journey-so far. And it is the best class because it kept me out of my comfort zone the entire five weeks. The format inspired me to take chances and create some different art with the help from the group. I love the longer timeline, letting ideas "sit" and having time to explore by doing homework was helpful. Will definitely take again or the next level."
  • "I feel like my journey as an artist has just begun, despite doing art for years. Julie is a master artist AND teacher, a true professional! I hope there will be a Design Boot Camp 2 next year!"
  • "I loved the assignments. Based on one of the articles l read by James Clear, l am a person always in motion not in action. I read articles, blogs, watch youtube videos always saying that l'm learning something. Your assignments made me actually put what you were teaching us into action."
  • "This class was worth every penny! I have LOTS of work to do, but I feel like I now have the tools to carry me forward to where I would like to be."
  • "Zoom was fabulous - having all of my supplies at my fingertips was perfect. Loved the ability to review my notes and digest the lesson given before the next one was presented. Interacting with the other students was a great part of the learning experience. I have said this before and I will say it again - you are an extraordinary teacher with incredible knowledge about art that you share in a clear, professional way. Only you could accomplish what you did in the class - you get right to the point and right to the heart of the task. Over the years you have added much joy to my artistic endeavors. Thank you!"
  • "The best class I’ve ever taken, in-person or on-line — thanks!"
Shop

Chine-Collé Live: Replay

$100.00

This is a recording from a three-hour live online workshop conducted over Zoom.


Chine-collé roughly translates from French as “chine”= tissue, and “collé” = glue or paste. The word chine is used because the thin paper that printmakers traditionally used for this process, was imported to Europe from China, India and Japan.


If you'd like to learn how to do chine-collé without a press, this is the class for you. We will be covering:

  • The chine-collé process -- from conception to final print.
  • How to cut your paper to match your stamp.
  • What adhesives work best.
  • What papers work best.
  • What stamps/blocks work best.
  • What the differences are between collaging first and collaging while printing.
  • How to fix mistakes.
  • Layering.
  • Using multiple blocks.


Please have available to you during class:

  • Stamps -- Hand Carved, Commercial, Silicone, Foam, Wood -- we can make any type of stamp work. That said, larger stamps are easier to work with.
  • Paper that you like to use for collage -- copy paper, book pages, deli paper, notebook paper, tissue paper, washi paper, vintage papers -- whatever you like.
  • Paper substrate that you like to use for printmaking -- cardstock, printmaking paper, washi paper, etc.
  • Block Printing Ink -- I highly recommend Speedball's Fabric & Paper Ink that easily cleans up with soap and water: https://amzn.to/3RNRIck
  • Soft Rubber Brayer: https://amzn.to/3fVRpiz
  • Painter's Tape
  • Paint Palette
  • paintbrush to use with glue
  • Jar of Water (for brush)
  • A wet adhesive -- My current preference is Yes Paste because of the long open time: https://amzn.to/3Ml4AWc Or a UHU Glue Stic: https://amzn.to/3MkNckx
  • Scrap paper
  • Scissors
  • Black Ink Pad
  • Tracing Paper
  • Pen or Pencil
  • Paper Towel or Rag
  • Baren: https://amzn.to/3MxR1Dj or a wooden spoon
  • Optional: apron, something to protect your table, craft knife and cutting mat, page protector, matte medium in a fine line bottle, reverse grip tweezers


The chine-collé process is a wonderful way to add color and pattern to your stamped and block printed images. Join me!
Shop

Be sure to check out Design Boot Camp

Design Boot Camp's 2022 season is SOLD OUT!
But you can learn all about this amazing live online workshop and get ready to make better art in 2023.
Please note that class fees are non-refundable.
If you want to be notified when new live online classes are added, please join my weekly mailing list.

THESE CLASSES ARE AWESOME & WORTH EVERY PENNY!

You don't have to take my word for it.

READ THE TESTIMONIALS

  • "I felt like I learned the secret language of artists, and that made me more confident and free."
  • "The wealth of information that Julie shared with us during the two hour sessions over the course of Bootcamp. She was so prepared and is such an excellent teacher - I knew that I was in good hands."
  • "This is the toughest class I have taken in my art journey-so far. And it is the best class because it kept me out of my comfort zone the entire five weeks. The format inspired me to take chances and create some different art with the help from the group. I love the longer timeline, letting ideas "sit" and having time to explore by doing homework was helpful. Will definitely take again or the next level."
  • "I feel like my journey as an artist has just begun, despite doing art for years. Julie is a master artist AND teacher, a true professional! I hope there will be a Design Boot Camp 2 next year!"
  • "I loved the assignments. Based on one of the articles l read by James Clear, l am a person always in motion not in action. I read articles, blogs, watch youtube videos always saying that l'm learning something. Your assignments made me actually put what you were teaching us into action."
  • "This class was worth every penny! I have LOTS of work to do, but I feel like I now have the tools to carry me forward to where I would like to be."
  • "Zoom was fabulous - having all of my supplies at my fingertips was perfect. Loved the ability to review my notes and digest the lesson given before the next one was presented. Interacting with the other students was a great part of the learning experience. I have said this before and I will say it again - you are an extraordinary teacher with incredible knowledge about art that you share in a clear, professional way. Only you could accomplish what you did in the class - you get right to the point and right to the heart of the task. Over the years you have added much joy to my artistic endeavors. Thank you!"
  • "The best class I’ve ever taken, in-person or on-line — thanks!"
"It was WONDERFUL!  You are an excellent teacher.  The class was packed with information and ideas.  You know how to break down & present the course content in manageable, lively bites, and your enthusiasm is contagious. Oh, and you’ve adapted to the ZOOM format beautifully." - Sue
"OMG, this class was fantastic! As always, so many techniques and tips, and so much inspiration....If she offers this again, sign up. A great way to spend a Friday night." - Ellen
"​Thank you Julie! I learned so much in class." - Maria
"Thank you for an amazing class tonight. I was feelings so intimidated by the CanvasWorkspace and you made it really easy. I love your calm and cool teaching style. You really put us all at ease and you made it fun. I’m so excited to really use my ScanNCut now. I'm excited by all the things I can do with it!" - Melinda
"Hi Julie - Just want to tell you I finished the recorded class this morning.  I LOVE the way you teach.  It's understandable and easy to follow.  I also love that you record it.  I am the slow one in any group and it's wonderful to be able to pause and replay when I didn't quite get something!  I will definitely take more ScanNCut and CanvasWorkspace classes when you post them.  Again, THANKS!" - Val
"Thank you so much for the workshop. You are a great teacher and cheerleader." - Sarah
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