Toy Taxidermy workshop with Juls Cheresko

At the resource exchange in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a strip of community energy gathers around a long workshop table for a two-hour crash course in creative upcycling. Toy Taxidermy with Juls Cheresko (@juliacheresko) turns forgotten stuffed animals into wall-mounted conversation pieces — a playful riff on classic taxidermy made entirely from thrifted fabrics, frames, and found embellishments. Participants start by choosing a stuffed animal or bringing one of their own, then move through design, trimming, mounting, and finishing using hot glue, small scissors, and a series of frames and fabrics provided by the instructor.

The key features of the scene are simple and tactile: a communal workbench scattered with mismatched eyes, felt scraps, pincushions, vintage buttons, and wooden frames; a wall to test placement; and the hum of conversation as crude plush becomes a sculpted head ready to hang. There are no natural landmarks here — the attraction is material history, texture, and the city’s thriving culture of reuse. This workshop is a standout because it compresses practice and personality into a compact, accessible format.

Juls Cheresko brings a local artist’s eye and a playful sensibility, guiding makers through safe hot-glue techniques and compositional choices so every finished piece looks deliberate rather than accidental. The class runs roughly 2 hours, making it an easy addition to a day in Philadelphia — pop in after breakfast at a nearby cafe or before an evening at a neighborhood gallery. Why book this in Philadelphia? The city’s strong thrift and craft networks feed the workshop with varied materials; attendees often leave with pieces that reflect South Philly’s layered aesthetic.

Toy Taxidermy also connects to a larger culture of upcycling and DIY craft that’s part of modern urban conservation: by rescuing stuffed animals and repurposing frames, the workshop reduces waste while creating a durable keepsake. Practical notes: all materials are provided but personal items are welcome; expect to stand and work at a shared table; hot glue is used, so hair tied back and closed-toe shoes are smart. The resource exchange space favors hands-on making and community exchange rather than a pristine classroom environment — bring curiosity, not perfection.

Workshops run occasionally; listings have included specific dates (the April 11th session met 2–3:30pm). Small groups and creative duos fit easily, so the brief format is ideal between other Philadelphia stops—grab a coffee, browse the Italian Market, then return with a handmade souvenir. Or combine with an afternoon gallery visit or a nearby neighborhood mural walk.

Whether you’re hunting for an offbeat souvenir, a quick creative date, or a way to give an old toy new life, Toy Taxidermy with Juls Cheresko delivers a focused, social, and strangely satisfying craft session in the heart of Philadelphia.