The next round of workshops curated by our Debbie has just been announced: from old favourites to new additions, there is something for every creatively curious person!

Booking for all classes here: Workshops and Classes

Kicking off at 6PM on Wednesday 30th April, our first four 6-week courses are firm favourites with our stalwart Duncairn artists and facilitators.

BEGINNER SEWING with Bernie Carlin

Over this 6-week course participants will learn not only basic sewing machine skills, but you will build and develop the confidence to explore the tools needed to make your own individual pieces. It all begins with the basics; how to set up and thread your machine, progressing weekly as you learn all the skills you need to create your own projects. This is the friendliest class in town…don’t miss it!

Throughout this course you will learn how to:

- thread a sewing machine and wind a bobbin.

- sew in a straight line and turn corners.

- make different types of seams and hem the edge of a garment.

- insert a zip.

- apply a patch pocket and more...

Limited sewing machines are available so please do bring your own if you have one. Indicate at booking if you require a Duncairn machine.

PORTRAITURE with Leah Davis

In this really engaging programme led by resident artist Leah Davis, with her guidance, you will study portraiture through drawing and painting from a posed model.

Through a series of structured exercises, you will learn about anatomy, and not only how to record a likeness, but also how to get a sense of feeling into your subject.

You will be guided by mark making techniques, colour theory and how to approach a portrait with more confidence.

This workshop is suitable for all levels, you will develop your skills in drawing and painting by embracing the use of different mediums and materials. Materials Included

WRITING CREATIVELY with Aoibh Clarke

Playwright, poet and copywriter Aoibh Clarke will facilitate this fantastic six-week programme, which is an introduction to Writing Creatively.

If you're a budding writer, eager to receive some guidance from a creative professional, this six-week programme will be invaluable. Aoibh's workshops are consistently person-led, meaning that the classes will be shaped according to the needs and interests of the people in the room.

Eager to learn how to write your first play? No problem. Are short stories your thing? We'll make it happen. Ready to unleash the poet within? Aoibh has you covered for multiple genres of writing.

Passionate about words, their power, and the potential for great writing to change the world, Aoibh creates a safe, shared space for creative expression.

“When learning about creative writing, there are strategies, tricks and tips to get things moving. However, the real magic happens when we’re given structure, space to explore and the chance to try things out without fear. I absolutely love facilitating creative writing workshops, because there’s something truly special about shared art and creative expression.” - Aoibh Johnson.

No previous experience is necessary, all you need is some curiosity, a budding idea, and the drive to connect with fellow creatives.

BEGINNER/IMPROVER CROCHET with Aroona Murphy

Suitable for absolute beginners and improvers alike, these informal classes will introduce participants to the wonders of Crochet.

Aroona will work with you through the most commonly known stitches at your own pace - from chain stitch through to the treble stitch.

With this knowledge and your growing confidence practicing these lovely crochet stitches, you will then work towards completing your very own colourful Granny Square….and once you've mastered the ever-versatile Granny Square, the options are truly endless - we think you'll be hooked!

Check programming for our ‘Corner to Corner’ morning session coming up on the 8th March…another beautiful project for developing your crochet skills!

** NEW ** PORTRAITURE with Leah Davis - AFTERNOON CLASS

Tuesday 20th May @ 1pm-3pm (6 weeks)

In this really engaging programme led by resident artist Leah Davis, with her guidance, you will study portraiture through drawing and painting from a posed model.

Through a series of structured exercises, you will learn about anatomy, and not only how to record a likeness, but also how to get a sense of feeling into your subject.

You will be guided by mark making techniques, colour theory and how to approach a portrait with more confidence.

This workshop is suitable for all levels, you will develop your skills in drawing and painting by embracing the use of different mediums and materials. Materials Included

SUMMER PROGRAMME : 6 weeks starting Wednesday 11th June (6-8PM)

BEGINNER/IMPROVING SEWING with Bernie Carlin

A step on from our previous Beginner Courses, Improvers will work you through the techniques of sewing patterns and cutting skills.

Over the course of the 6-weeks, you will learn how to create a simple garment and gain confidence to alter your own clothes. Patterns will be available but feel free to bring your own, ensuring it is suitable to your ability.

In week one, Bernie will talk to you about the type of fabric you will need to buy for your chosen pattern, which will be needed for week 2 of the class.

Some of the topics covered will be:

- how to cut and pin fabric using a simple pattern.

- how to sew straight seams and finish them.

- how to insert a zip and finish a waistline.

- understanding a sewing pattern including their mysterious language and symbols and much more.

Limited sewing machines are available so please do bring your own if you have one. Please ensure you indicate at booking if you require a Duncairn machine.Materials included (except final garment fabric)

SKETCH AND PAINT with Leah Davis

Join artist Leah Davis on this 6-week course in developing your drawing and painting skills through the study of still life.

Diving into an array of different mediums, this course will include working with ink, pencil, pen, charcoal, pastels as well as paint; with this diverse range of materials and new skills, you will enhance your creative range of techniques enabling you to approach drawing and painting with more confidence and understanding.

Suitable for all levels. Materials Included

** NEW COURSE ** PHONE FILMMAKING with Larry Cowan

We are delighted to welcome Filmmaker Larry Cowan to The Duncairn programme.

Larry is passionate about film making and teaches a range of work from stop/start animation through to documentaries and pretty much everything in between.

On this 6 week course we bring Larry’s Phone Filmmaking workshops to the programme, which he tells us will transform your mobile device into a powerful storytelling tool.

Participants will learn essential techniques, from composition and lighting to dynamic camera movement and sound design; master editing apps to craft compelling narratives and discover how to optimize your work for social media.

Whether you're a budding filmmaker or seeking to enhance your online presence, these hands-on sessions will empower you to create professional-looking videos with just your phone.

Suitable for ages 16+ (under 18 need parental consent)

ONE-OFF SATURDAY WORKSHOPS

KEEPSAKE BOOK with Lucy Turner

Saturday 17th May // 11am – 2pm

This beautiful workshop with Lucy allows you to explore a lovely new skill, while completely immersing yourself in creativity for an afternoon.

Three different book techniques will be explored and your Keepsake Book will be unique to you, completed on the day to take away. Choose, cut and glue your covers, select or create a fastening and take away your gorgeous book.

Once you’ve done this workshop, you’ll have the skills to make more at home or just revel in the joy of using your own creations. The perfect gift for that special friend, or a treat for you; a handmade book for photos, recipes, Mother’s day memories or any special day.

COPPER CUFF Workshop with Redsmith’s Forge

Saturday 17th May // 11am – 2pm

Join Redsmith's Forge for a unique and hands-on workshop where you'll create copper cuffs.

In 3 hours, you'll learn the techniques and skills needed to shape your own stunning cuffs and you'll take home beautifully crafted accessories that reflect your personal style.

No experience necessary, just a willingness to get creative and have fun!

NEW LIFE IN OLD CLOTHES with Bernie Carlin

Saturday 7th June // 10.30am-4pm

During this one day masterclass Bernie will be sharing the skill of upcycling, and teaching you how to bring new life into old clothes. By doing this, we can help reduce textile waste to create a more sustainable and circular fashion culture, and gain skills to upcycle other clothes at home.

You will be covering functions of the sewing machine i.e. buttonholes and recycling techniques. You will learn about seams, customising, hemming, creating pockets, finishing techniques, darts and more. This unique opportunity for beginners and more advance sewers gives you the opportunity to refresh your wardrobe for the summer season.

The plan is to make a summer outfit like a pair of shorts and top from old shirts and Bernies stash of remnants and off cuts; plus she will have patterns available to help you along the way.

The is a relaxed class so you will be able to work at your own pace and ability and is suitable for everyone.

All materials are provided but you are welcome to bring one or two unwanted items that you are happy to upcycle.