Thought about buying your Xmas Tree yet? Why not make your own...

Family Club this week was packed to rafters with eager families getting into the festive spirit and spreading some cheer making their own alternative Xmas trees.

Why not pop along to our Xmas Fair this weekend where we will be making decorations for our trees.

Beginners Sewing Machine Workshop

Want to enrol on our beginners sewing machine workshop, but not sure what level you are at? 
Here is a step by step guide of what you can expect us to cover in your session. 

We spend the first hour of the session covering the basics of how to set your machine up, how to select the right stitch and how to work out the tension on your machine. Each participants is given a hand out to take notes during the session.

Once everyone has got to grips with their machines it is time to put what we have learned in to practice.

Each person selects their own fabric and cuts the pattern pieces for their very own tote bag.

The results are fabulous don't you agree?

Our next session is on Monday 29th November, 9am-11am. 
To book your place email jill.robertson@stmargaretshouse.org.uk

Holy Mackerel- Saturday Family Club started this Saturday

Sophie along with her trusty sidekicks got crafty this Saturday with her Superhero's and Super Villains themed workshop.

Each group invented their own superhero and their arch nemesis, gave them a name and decided on their individual powers. Next step was to start bring them to life by sticking, cutting and painting.

We already have 3 groups down for next week, come on, join in the fun, you know you want to!

Full House at the Beginners Sewing Course

We were full to the brim with enthusiastic participants for last night beginners sewing class. Workshop leader Lyn introduced the class to the basics of hand sewing through her unique and quirky style. Hearts were filled and friends were made and everyone went away the proud owner of their own craft project and a new skill to pass on to others.

Jealous you missed out on the fun last night? Check out our new online booking system on the right hand side of the blog and get yourself in there quick sharp for the next session.

Beginners Workshop- First Session Complete

Our very first beginners workshop session happened tonight and was a great success.
By starting off small and making a simple toy we taught the basics of cutting out from a pattern, pining out fabrics and hand stitching them together.

The result was a unique gift that our participants took away with them.

Next week- machine sewing basics- interested??

Beginners Sewing Workshop- Wednesday 10th November @ 6:30

To Book your place or for more info please email- 


jill.robertson@stmargaretshouse.org.uk 
siobhan.watts@stmargaretshouse.org.uk

Cut it out, and sew!

Today the back to basics space was buzzing with activity with a bunch of volunteers sharing their working techniques, ideas and inspirations.  Maria explained how she produces her beautifully crafted textile compositions using a 'cutwork' technique as a base and local folklore/poetry as subject matter.  Maria also made a stunning textile design (see images below) and Angela tried it out for herself with Maria's guidance;  look out for the results appearing in the window space soon.   

 Maria explaining her technique to the group and

 below her great design for the Back to Basics window.

Reese, has been making more template cars to add to the growing collection of paper sculptures invading the shelves at Back to Basics.

Angela worked on her small, intricate, peak district inspired pieces using hand embroidery techniques.

And in anticipation of tomorrows alternative eco toy making workshop Amy has been sketching ideas for new 'creature characters' to make up.  

Looking forward to tomorrow's blog!

Show us your handy work

Italian jewellery designer Francesca Colli hosted our very first jewellery workshop today, teaching her willing participants how to make one of her beautiful designs.

By using pliers and copper wire she showed how to twist and turn your way to a beautiful ring, a set of elegant earings or beaded bracelet.

Pop into Ayoka where her designs are on sale now!!

Creature Comforts

Creature Comforts

New volunteer Amy came in today and got stuck in by turning some of Ayoka's misfits into, well misfits of a different kind.

Her unique take on teddy bears have a dark side with hand illustrated features. Pop in on Friday and learn how to make one for yourself.