Sometimes we go out of our way to buy items that we could otherwise create ourselves. We live in a time of concern, as global warming has presented itself as a impactful force, so why not recycle items we no longer use or need and live zero waste? Over the next couple of weeks, there are some amazing DIY, craft, arts events and workshops happening in Manchester. So, whether you’re passionate about saving the environment or whether you just want something creative to do, one of these events could be perfect for you.
The finest creative minds that Manchester has to offer meet at the Old Bank Residency every Friday, and for just £5 you can join them. You will experience an afternoon of activities designed to celebrate DIY culture, where you can indulge in all-you-can-eat Dhal. Throughout the event’s four hours, you will take part in DIY lessons and workshops, dance, debate and draw. Don’t worry too much about your level of experience, the lessons and workshops are designed for those who are beginners, intermediate or skilled. So if you have a shelf that desperately needs hanging, these workshops could be worthwhile. The next Dhal + DIY event will take place on Friday 21 February 2020 between noon and 4pm and focuses on monoprinting – however upcoming events cover a variety of creative practices.
Take a seat at a spinning wheel and learn all about the ancient craft which legendary Victorian art critic John Ruskin loved so much. You will admire the beautiful surroundings of Elizabeth Gaskell’s house while you are taught the basics of this wonderfully traditional process. Don’t worry if you’re not advanced in this field, you will sit under the watchful eye of a wool and textiles tutor, Dee Sayce. This full day workshop will take place on Friday 6 March 2020 between 10am and 4pm.
In this beginners workshop you will have a wine glass in one hand and a paint brush in the other as you unleash your inner creativity. Don’t worry if you’re not an experience artist, you will be guided by somebody who knows exactly what they are doing. This workshop is themed around Van Gogh’s famous painting Starry Night. You will be given a canvas, some blue and green paint and a paintbrush, so you can create your own masterpiece themed around this iconic work. All art supplies, including an apron and easel, are included in the price of this experience. You will also be able to purchase your own drinks from the bar area and fully immerse yourself in a peaceful atmosphere with the themed musical playlist. The workshop will take place on Wednesday 11 March 2020 between 7.30pm and 10pm.
- Words:
- Kimberley Booth
- Published on:
- Mon 17 Feb 2020
If you’re an admirer of beautiful typography and have always wondered how it’s done, this workshop will give you all the skills and insight you need. Hosted by Paperchase, this two and a half hour long intensive will teach you the fundamentals of modern and versatile calligraphy, using a dip pen and a pot of ink. You’ll start off with the basics, learning how to write the entire alphabet in both upper and lowercase letters. Once you’ve got the hang of this, you’ll look at joining up individual letters to create words and phrases. You’ll experiment with different glossy paper and different colours to see how the ink reacts. Finally, you will delve into the layout elements of hand lettering. This workshop is rather expensive, as it is currently priced at £45. This fixed price includes the workshop with calligraphy professionals, the starter kit, which consists of ink dip pen and nib, and of course a canvas to showcase your work. Places are limited for this workshop which will take place on Friday 21 February only, between 2.30pm and 5pm.