Launching this spring at The Exchange in Sturminster Newton, come along to The Craft Lab and try your hand at some exciting craft workshops!
Led by a series of local artists and craftspeople, places on each of these workshops will be limited, and so advanced booking is essential.
For further information and to book, contact The Exchange: 01258 475137
Dorset Button Making with Anna McDowell
Monday 9th Febuary, 10am – 1pm. Places £10
Dorset buttons is a traditional craft handmade from fabric, embroidery floss or yarn, wrapped around a round-shaped base. There are four different types of Dorset Buttons, and many variations of each. The first buttons were made with sheep’s horn, fabric and thread (High Tops and Dorset Knobs). Wire rings were introduced in the 1730s and two further types of buttons were added to the range: the Singletons and the Dorset Cartwheel and Blandford Crosswheel. This hands-on workshop gives you the perfect introduction to Dorset Button Making for Beginners.
Clay Tiles workshop with Deborah Clarke
Monday 23rd February, 11am – 1pm. Places £10
In this relaxing 2 hour workshop you will be able to explore textures and mark making in clay, creating two small coasters inspired by Dorset landscape. Add colour to your creations using engobes (a liquid clay coating) to highlight the textures and details. Your pieces will be kiln fired and be ready for collection 2-3 weeks later. Dress for Mess!
Lino Printing with Caroline Buckman
Monday 9th March, 10am – 2.30pm. Places £15
Explore the basics of lino printing in this hands-on, interactive workshop for beginners! We will spend some time practicing carving on test blocks to build confidence, before moving on to carve your own small design into A6 lino. You'll learn allabout the inking and printing process (the technical but fun part!), and can use an easy-to-use Woodzilla press to make multiple prints of your design in different colours! Everyone will come away with a small selection of prints to hang on your wall or gift to friends. Be prepared to embrace the slightly unpredictable, inky world of printing, and embrace the 'happy accidents' that lino printing can bring! Bring lunch and Dress for Mess.
Indian Block printing with Rachel Wilkinson
Monday 23rd March, 10am – 1pm. Places £15
If you’re looking for a new craft which is simple and easy to do, then you’ll love Indian Block Printing. This introductory workshop is perfect for anyone new to Indian block printing, or for those wanting a refresher. Relax and enjoy the experience of hand-printing on to 100% cotton fabric. Choose from a variety of contemporary and traditional designs, hand-carved in Indian Rosewood by local artisans from Jaipur in India. All materials included. No experience necessary. Just… Print. Relax. Repeat! Dress for Mess