What is Wolf Craft?

Wolf Craft School is a proposed multi-discipline craft school situated on 15.77 acres in South, Nevada County, California. Founder by two avid learners and students of the arts, Leslie and Jay.

Where exactly is this located?

Our main campus that is currently under construction is conveniently located on Wolf Road in Grass Valley, about 3/4 of a mile west of HWY 49 at the Higgins Corner intersection, in South County Nevada County. It’s a beautiful wooded spot, about halfway between Auburn and Grass Valley. While we build the main campus, we are offering craft classes in Downtown Nevada City at The Tinnery.

What planning has gone into this project?

We’ve been working closely with the Nevada County Planning Department for over three years, to achieve a thoughtful and sensitive design that addresses overall use of the site, the buildings, landscape and environment. It’s been a highly collaborative and detailed process, involving multiple rounds of feedback and refinement. Our application was finalized in May, and the Planning Department published a comprehensive CEQA document, which outlines the environmental impact of the project. We went before the Planning Commission to get the Use Permit and it was a tie vote, so we appealed to the Board of Supervisors where we were awarded the Use Permit with a 4 to 1 favorable vote.

Are you building this all at once?

No, we are taking a slow, phased approach to this project. We want to start as small as we can and see what resonates with the community and grow from there. Phase One will include the land's essential infrastructure (septic, plumbing, and electrical), a barn and office, a ceramics studio and 2 classrooms, small-tent cabins and a space to cook, like a food truck or fun little trailer. To apply for our use permit, we’ve made some assumptions and are projecting our vision of the future design without any real time feedback from customers. We've outlined our intended phasing plan for how we hope the project will go, but we continue to remain as flexible as possible to pivot with the needs of the community, students and the school. Phase Two would include our own private residence, with a wood and metal shop. Phase Three may include adding a permanent kitchen and converting some of the tent cabins to permanent cabins. While we build on the land, we are offering craft classes in Nevada City at The Tinnery.

Who’s behind this project?

We’re Leslie Barbazette and Jay Morgan, two people who share a deep love of learning and craftsmanship. Like many, we spent time during the pandemic reflecting on what truly matters to us, and that’s when the idea for this school was born. We wanted to create a place where people can come together in nature to learn new skills, just as we’ve always enjoyed doing.

Why Grass Valley?

Grass Valley is deeply meaningful to Leslie and Jay. Leslie’s family roots here date back to 1853, and they continued their lives her for over 100 years. Leslie she’s spent countless weeks enjoying this beautiful area with her family and friends. Jay, too, fell in love with Grass Valley during their many trips to the area. It’s a place that has always felt like home, and they’re excited to contribute to its future.

Is this a trade school?

While we admire trade schools and their important role in education, we’re not a trade school. Our focus is on teaching traditional crafts and skills, not offering professional certifications in trades like plumbing or electrical work. However, we do plan to collaborate with local high schools to provide enriching field trip experiences and expanding education opportunities the area. 

Will there be accommodations?

Yes! For those seeking multi-day courses, and immersive experiences we intend to offer cozy accommodations with up to 9 tent cabins built on platforms, each with a comfortable bed and a private bathroom. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, we also offer an additional 4 tent cabins with shared bathroom facilities.