Mission Statement

We believe in the power of creativity, community, and connection. Our mission is to provide a welcoming and inspiring environment for individuals to learn and master traditional crafts such as blacksmithing, woodworking, ceramics, and fiber arts. We strive to bring premier artists and craftspeople from all over the world to share their knowledge and techniques with our students. Through these experiences, we hope to foster a deeper appreciation for the value of handmade goods, the importance of craftsmanship, and the joy of creating something with your own two hands.

We are committed to sustainable practices and respect for the environment. Our mission is to provide a transformative experience that combines creative learning, outdoor exploration, and community connection.

The Founder

Wolf Craft School & Collective is the vision of Leslie Barbazette—a designer and maker whose career has championed the timeless value of craft. From revitalizing a century-old knitting mill in Pennsylvania to leading design, production, and sustainability at global apparel brands, Leslie has spent two decades proving that traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation belong side by side.

Leslie Barbazette

Leslie’s roots in the area go back five generations. Her family first settled in Grass Valley in 1853, opening the Fahey Quartz Mine and later managing the beloved Bret Harte Inn in the 1950s. Summers filled with camping trips and small-town festivals forged her belief that creativity thrives in close-knit communities.

Those memories—and a restored vintage travel trailer tucked into the pines——kept drawing her back to Nevada County, even as her career took her around the world.

Through Wolf Craft School, she seeks to honor Nevada County’s heritage while shaping its future—nurturing a place where creativity flourishes at a gentle pace, and everyone is welcome to join in crafting a vibrant, enduring community.

Throughout her journey, Leslie’s passion for the arts has remained a constant touchstone. From writing knitting books to collaborating with heritage brands, she has consistently championed the art of making.

As the founder of the Wolf Craft School and Collective, Leslie brings her expertise, enthusiasm, and entrepreneurial spirit to an institution dedicated to honoring and advancing the art of making. Whether she is designing timeless apparel and accessories, modernizing sustainable production systems, or teaching the next generation of makers, Leslie’s enduring love for arts and crafts stands at the heart of her life’s work.

Have more questions about Wolf Craft School?