Scribal Arts Skills Classes
I am excited to offer in-person safrus classes at my home in NYC Spring/Summer 2025.
Safrus is a craft historically only accessible to ultra-orthodox cismen, but this class is open to individuals of all genders and types of Jewish observance. Basic understanding of the Hebrew alef-bet is encouraged but not required. All texts will be presented in both Hebrew and English.
Each class session will be followed by a 1-hour scriptorium practice session (8:30-9:30), which is open to the public. This scriptorium will serve as a recitation or a safrus “night seder,” an informal space for students and practitioners to work alongside one another and receive feedback and support with their work. Click here for all scriptorium dates.
In-person attendance is strongly encouraged; a limited number of remote/hybrid slots will be available. Materials kits will be available for remote students to purchase.
Each course will be capped at 10 students. If there is additional interest, I may offer the course again at another time.
Join us to encounter and engage with the techniques involved in our tradition’s holiest work.
Upcoming Classes
pictured above: a student practices letters during a lesson
Advanced Skills
$400
Materials kit for remote students: $120 (waived if student has all needed materials)
Students who already have learned basic letter forms and fundamental skills will now hone their craft and work toward completion and mastery of a larger project. Skills covered will include advanced spacing and stretching, ritual sewing of parchment, and quill formation and adjustment. Students will also encounter basic technical skills related to tefillin assembly and restoration.
Students who wish to register for this Advanced Skills course must have completed a full introductory course or equivalent private study with me or another qualified instructor.
Dates: May 5, 12, 19, June 16, 23, 30
Class 7:30pm-8:30pm EST
Scriptorium 8:30pm-9:30pm EST
Students should bring a supplies box to hold and transport materials. Some supplies not included in registration fee may be purchased through instructor.
Introduction, Part 1
$400
Materials kit for remote students: $60
This 5-part class will cover basic fundamental skills of ritual Hebrew scribal arts (safrus), and will cover the first half of the letters of the alef-bet. Students will also engage with texts related to Jewish legal and ethical considerations pertinent to scribing today.
Dates: July 14, 21, 28, Aug 4, 11
Class 7:30pm-8:30pm
Scriptorium 8:30pm-9:30pm
Registration fee includes materials for in-person students. Students should bring a small supplies box to hold and transport materials.
Part 2 will be offered Fall 2025
Drop-in Scriptorium
Free
Students of all levels are welcome to drop in and work in this supportive, informal environment.
No new frontal instruction will take place during these sessions; they are designed to supplement coursework and offer structured practice time.
The instructor will be working on projects of her own, alongside student work. Curious students may observe and ask questions about her work, or request feedback or support on theirs. Students are also encouraged to assist and support one another.
All dates class is held, 8:30-9:30pm EST
Click here for Scriptorium Google Calendar
Basic materials will be available for use, additional materials available for purchase.
No advanced registration required.