Bee Embroidery Workshop with Emma Whitehead
2023-06-24 13:30 - 16:30 (Europe/London) | R-Space Gallery, 32 Castle Street, Lisburn, BT27 4XE, United Kingdom
Inspired by the famous painting The Laughing Cavalier housed in The Wallace Collection, Emma has designed an embroidery workshop that delves into the image’s history and iconography. After learning about the richly painted textiles in the painting, participants will embroider a beautiful bee motif on Irish linen, learning the stitches and techniques needed to create their finished piece.
All participants must be able to hand sew – beginners to embroidery are welcome. The workshop is designed to accommodate different levels of skill. Children from aged 14 are welcome, if accompanied by a parent/guardian.
All materials are provided and participants can take their work home in the hoops for £3. If you have a hoop at home, you are welcome to bring it along. (Hoop size between 6″-9″).
Emma Whitehead has been a textile artist for over 20 years. Throughout her stitching journey, she has shared her expertise with community groups and people interested in exploring the possibilities of surface embroidery. As co-director of the artist-led gallery Top Floor Art Gallery & Open Studios, she manages the TFA Studio Group; with an established reputation for excellent facilitation of traditional textile skills, the group have been engaged by organisations such as Lagan Navigation Trust, ArtsEkta and Harmony Community Trust to deliver workshop programmes and participation opportunities for the public.

Coppersmithing Jewellery Workshop
2023-07-01 10:00 - 13:00, 2023-09-02 10:00 - 13:00 | Navan Centre & Fort, 81 Killylea Road, Armagh, BT60 4LD, United Kingdom
Draw inspiration from the Celtic jewellery and Loughnashade trumpet found at the Navan complex of sites and learn the ancient skills of coppersmithing. Participants will have the perfect opportunity to create their own personalised jewellery or gift loved ones an experience they won’t forget.
Please note: this is a half-day workshop followed by lunch, which will take place on 11th March, 6th May, 1st July & 2nd September.
All materials are supplied and no previous experience is required.

Wonderful Wool!
2023-07-07 10:00 - 2023-07-27 15:00 | Larne Museum & Arts Centre, 2 Victoria Rd, Larne, BT40 1RN, United Kingdom
‘Woonderful Wool!’ is’ an exhibition of work by members of Region 14 of the International Feltmakers Association.

The exhibition shows the versatility of this wonderful natural product when it is subjected to the process of dry or wet felting. A variety of wools have been used in the various exhibits – combined in different ways with other materials such as silk, viscose and cotton. Visitors will see 3D objects, hangings, pictures and wearable pieces such as hats, scarves and coats.

All the exhibits have been created by members of Region 14 of the International Feltmakers Association. Its members come from across the island of Ireland and include feltmakers of international renown asa well as those just starting their creative journey.

Pottery Workshop with Adam Frew
2023-07-21 10:00 - 16:00 | Adam Frew Studio, 21 Cullycapple Park, Aghadowey, BT51 4AS, United Kingdom
Join Adam Frew for this 2 day pottery course, suitable for all levels, from beginners to improvers.
The emphasis of the class will be on using the potter’s wheel to make a variety of thrown porcelain vessels. Students will be guided through the basics of throwing and also turning (finishing) pots. Adam will demonstrate his various decoration techniques and students will be encouraged to be experimental in their approach. There will be flexibility in the teaching allowing students to request specific demonstrations or help with a particular technique.
Students will each select their best pots to be fired. Finished pieces will be glaze fired in the gas kiln and ready 3-4 weeks after the course for collection, or shipping can be arranged.
Classes will be small groups of 7 students.
Payment upfront is preferred, however a 25% deposit will secure your place. A simple lunch of homemade soup and bread, as well tea and coffee are provided.

Creative Peninsula Exhibition at Ards Arts Centre
2023-07-27 10:00 - 2023-08-24 16:00 | Ards Arts Centre, Town Hall, Conway Square, Newtownards, BT23 4NP, United Kingdom
Throughout August, Ards Arts Centre will play host to the main Creative Peninsula exhibition, featuring exclusive works by the finest Artists and Makers from the Ards and North Down Borough

This exhibition will feature unique pieces of art and craftwork in a variety of mediums, specially selected for display in Ards Arts Centre and created in our Borough. This exhibition is a celebration of the exclusivity and quality of the artwork produced by local artists and makers and a fantastic opportunity to purchase a beautiful piece of art.
Artworks are for sale, and many artists accept commission work too.
Be sure to pick up a Creative Peninsula programme for more information on other events and activities taking place during the festival.

Cameron & Breen Jewellery Trunk Show - Opening Night
2023-07-28 18:00 - 21:00 | Craft NI Gallery, 115 - 119 Royal Ave, Belfast, BT1 1FF, United Kingdom
Come along and meet design powerhouse Martin Cameron and Laura Breen for a one-of-a-kind event – a Cameron & Breen Jewellery Trunk Show at Craft NI Gallery, Belfast! This will be a unique opportunity to meet these two talented makers in person as the Gallery will show an extended collection of their stunning works for 3 days only.
Join us for the opening night on July 28th: the evening will start with a drinks reception at 6pm, and Martin and Laura will give a short introduction to the audience at 6:30. This will be a great opportunity to chat to them about their work and any bespoke commissions or remodelling ideas that you might have – appointments will be available over the next two days.
Cameron & Breen are renowned for their contemporary exploration into ancient jewellery design, having won awards from The Worshipful Company Of Goldsmiths and with noteworthy commissions under their belt such as presenting their ‘Ancient Treasure’ Brooch to Princess Anne Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal in 2021.
Captivating hordes of gold jewellery found in museums influence the forms and materials in Martin and Laura’s jewellery collections. Recycled gold is cast from wax that has been carved and manipulated by hand, displaying the beautiful marks of traditional handmade design and the ancient technique of lost wax casting. Stone carvings adorned with rhythmical patterns and curious figures inspire their playful hand engraved motifs. Martin and Laura hand select emeralds, sapphires, mandarin garnets, diamonds and rock crystals to skilfully set in each individual piece.
If you have longed to try on some of their pieces after intensive social media searches, have a bespoke commission in mind such as an engagement ring, a wedding ring or anniversary gift, or are interested to remodel heirloom pieces, stop by for a chat in the Gallery’s private consultation area. Martin and Laura welcome bespoke enquiries, and their designs can be translated for you using alternative metals and your dream gemstone can be sourced to create a truly unique treasure. Martin and Laura will happily discuss using your own gold and gemstones to create a new future heirloom.
Please note the following opening hours: Friday 6 – 9pm, Saturday 10 – 5pm, Sunday 1 – 6pm.

Cameron & Breen Trunk Show
2023-07-29 10:00 - 17:00, 2023-07-30 13:00 - 18:00 | Craft NI Gallery, 115 - 119 Royal Ave, Belfast, BT1 1FF, United Kingdom
Come along and meet design powerhouse Martin Cameron and Laura Breen for a one-of-a-kind event – a Cameron & Breen Jewellery Trunk Show at Craft NI Gallery, Belfast! This will be a unique opportunity to meet these two talented makers in person as the Gallery will show an extended collection of their stunning works for 3 days only.
Cameron & Breen are renowned for their contemporary exploration into ancient jewellery design, having won awards from The Worshipful Company Of Goldsmiths and with noteworthy commissions under their belt such as presenting their ‘Ancient Treasure’ Brooch to Princess Anne Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal in 2021.
Captivating hordes of gold jewellery found in museums influence the forms and materials in Martin and Laura’s jewellery collections. Recycled gold is cast from wax that has been carved and manipulated by hand, displaying the beautiful marks of traditional handmade design and the ancient technique of lost wax casting. Stone carvings adorned with rhythmical patterns and curious figures inspire their playful hand engraved motifs. Martin and Laura hand select emeralds, sapphires, mandarin garnets, diamonds and rock crystals to skilfully set in each individual piece.
If you have longed to try on some of their pieces after intensive social media searches, have a bespoke commission in mind such as an engagement ring, a wedding ring or anniversary gift, or are interested to remodel heirloom pieces, stop by for a chat in the Gallery’s private consultation area. Martin and Laura welcome bespoke enquiries, and their designs can be translated for you using alternative metals and your dream gemstone can be sourced to create a truly unique treasure. Martin and Laura will happily discuss using your own gold and gemstones to create a new future heirloom.
Please note the following opening hours: Friday 6 – 9pm, Saturday 10 – 5pm, Sunday 1 – 6pm.

Creative Peninsula Exhibition at North Down Museum
2023-08-02 10:00 - 2023-09-24 16:00 | North Down Museum, Town Hall, The Castle, Bangor, BT20 4BT, United Kingdom
The Long Gallery at North Down Museum will host the Creative Peninsula Exhibition between August 2 – September 17.
Creative Peninsula is one of Northern Ireland’s premier celebrations of art and craft. This thriving annual event features workshops, demonstrations, exhibitions and much more, all taking place throughout the beautiful and picturesque Ards and North Down Borough.

This exhibition will feature unique pieces of art and craftwork specially selected for display in North Down Museum. It is a celebration of the exclusivity and quality of the artwork produced by local artists and craftspeople and a fantastic opportunity to purchase a beautiful piece of art.
A series of Creative Peninsula events including workshops and Craft in the Square will be taking place throughout the month of August.

Summer Art Workshops - Children
2023-08-02 16:30 - 2023-08-23 18:00 | Lagan View Enterprise Centre, Drumbeg Drive Old Warren Estate Lisburn, Belfast, BT28 1NY, United Kingdom
Over 4 weeks in August children can explore a range of summer themed crafts that will be taught by artist Rachel Davey and art therapist Christina Johnston. Each week will involve a different activity that will be completed within the 1hr 30min session to bring home. These classes are great for beginners who want their first taste of crafting and is a great way to engage children in new and exciting skills over the summer break.
The details of the different fun creations we will be making each week are seen below:
– Wednesday 2nd August 2023 – Wind Chimes
– Wednesday 9th August 2023 – Grass Heads
– Wednesday 16th August 2023 – Stained Glass Windows
– Wednesday 23rd August 2023 – Scrap Sculptures

All art materials will be provided.
The cost is £25 per class or all 4 classes for £90.

'Pathways'
2023-08-03 18:00 - 2023-09-15 17:00 | Craft NI Gallery, 115 - 119 Royal Ave, Belfast, BT1 1FF, United Kingdom
Craft NI are delighted to announce the launch of ‘Pathways’, the August Craft Month 2023 exhibition.
The opening reception will take place at Craft NI Gallery on Thursday, 3rd August at 6pm. Featuring some of the best in contemporary craft, the annual August Craft Month Exhibition aims to celebrate and profile excellence in Northern Irish craft.
This year, applicants were invited to respond to the theme of Pathways, whether this was interpreted as a series of connections, reflections of travels or environment, experiences or actions, a personal journey or a journey in making. We’re excited to share with you the various meanings Pathways holds.
Exhibiting makers include:
Adam Frew, Adele Pound, Anne Butler, Elizabeth Johnston, Fiona Kerr, Heather McFadden, Irene McBride, Karen Hamilton, Karena Ryan, Lauren Scott, Maya Todd, Neil Marlow, Patricia Kelly, Patricia Millar, Patrick Colhoun, Pennie Metcalfe, Red Earth Designs, Sam Gleeson, Samantha Moore, Sandra Robinson, Sarah Cathers, Scott Benefield, Shauna McCann, Sue Cathcart, Tamzen Lundy Designs and Tracey Johnston.
This year, Craft NI are joined by special guest curator, Annie Cattrell, maker and tutor at the Royal College of Art. At the opening Annie will award this year’s guild prizes, for which Craft NI are particularly grateful to the former Guild of Northern Ireland Designer Makers (The Guild) who gifted a legacy gift for the development and promotion of the craft sector in Northern Ireland.

Slow Stitch on Linen
2023-08-04 10:30 - 12:00 | Island Arts Centre, The Island, Lisburn, BT27 4RL, United Kingdom
This workshop introduces participants to the concept of a stitch journal, giving guidance on how to develop a daily stitching practice. Taking a little time out of everyday, say 10-20 minutes, participants can sit and calmly stitch a small area in their stitch journal.
Using vintage linen and embroidery threads they will sew a little each day with stitches that are easy to do. Then, they will finish with a tactile and beautiful piece of embroidery that is personal to them. This introduction will get them started and then as a way to relax or unwind their thoughts and feelings can be translated into stitch.
No experience of sewing is necessary. Materials will be provided but please bring along small scissors. Tutor: Linda O’Kane.

CRAFTfest at Castle Ward
2023-08-04 11:00 - 2023-08-06 16:00 | Castle Ward, Castle Ward, Strangford, Downpatrick, BT30 7BA
This year’s event is bigger and better than ever before, with more exhibitors, more activities, and more opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the world of local craftsmanship.
CRAFTfest showcases a handpicked selection of talented local designers and artisan makers, including glass and ceramic makers, woodworkers, painters, and more. Not only will visitors have the opportunity to browse and shop for unique handmade items, but theeey’ll also get to witness live art demos and enjoy some fantastic live music performances in the beautiful outdoor setting.

Please note, the event is free for National Trust members.

Pottery Workshop with Adam Frew
2023-08-08 10:00 - 16:00, 2023-08-10 10:00 - 16:00, 2023-08-11 10:00 - 16:00 | Adam Frew Studio, 21 Cullycapple Park, Aghadowey, BT51 4AS, United Kingdom
Join Adam Frew for this 4 day course will run from 10am – 4pm.

Classes will be small groups of 7 students, and they are suitable for all levels, from beginners to improvers. The emphasis of the class will be on using the potter’s wheel to make a variety of thrown porcelain vessels. Students will be guided through the basics of throwing and also turning (finishing) pots. Adam will demonstrate his various decoration techniques and students will be encouraged to be experimental in their approach. There will be flexibility in the teaching allowing students to request specific demonstrations or help with a particular technique.
Students will each select their best pots to be fired. Finished pieces will be glaze fired in the gas kiln and ready 3-4 weeks after the course for collection, or shipping can be arranged.
Payment upfront is preferred, however a 25% deposit will secure your place. A light lunch, tea and coffee will be provided.

Carrickmacross Lace Summer School: 3-Dimensional Coloured Lace
2023-08-17 10:00 - 2023-08-19 15:00 | The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre, Armagh, 9 Market Street, Armagh, BT61 7BW
Award-winning designer and lace maker Theresa Kelly is delighted to present this new lace workshop based around the clematis flower ‘The President’. During this three-day workshop participants will be covering most of the traditional Carrickmacross Lace techniques of couching, guipure, loops etc. Theresa will guide them through the making of this original flower design. Suitable for beginner and intermediate lace makers.
All materials are provided however attendees are encouraged to bring a small lamp to shine on their work for increased visibility.
Max No: 12; suitable for 18+

Paper bird making
2023-08-19 10:30 - 11:30 | Island Arts Centre, The Island, Lisburn, BT27 4RL, United Kingdom
Wildlife artist and keen birdwatcher Adele Pound will demonstrate how she creates her eye-catching paper birds. Then participants will be guided in the creation of their own bird decoration of choice, made using simple paper cutting techniques. Choose from a range of designs that includes the beautiful blackbird, sweet little robin and handsome kingfisher.
These striking paper crafts make a lovely addition to a home and as a gift for bird lovers.

Wood carving
2023-08-26 10:00 - 13:00 | Island Arts Centre, The Island, Lisburn, BT27 4RL, United Kingdom
This one day workshop is an introduction to the traditional craft of woodcarving. The tutor, Geoff Tulip, is an innovative woodturner and woodcarver. He will guide participants throughout the day, explaining and demonstrating simple techniques in relief carving. Each attendee will learn how to create their own hand-carved piece to take home.
All tools and wood are provided for the duration of the workshop, and the day is suitable for absolute beginners.

Glassmaking Experience - Glass Making From Nature, Colours Of The Causeway Coast
2023-08-29 10:00 - 2024-03-30 12:30 | Andrea Spencer Glass, 35 Lagavara Road, Ballintoy, BT54 6NG, United Kingdom
Benefield Spencer Glass, the North Antrim Coast’s only glassblowing studio, is inviting you behind the doors of their private studio to experience the magic of molten glass.
Hands on glassmaking experience at Benefield Spencer Glass studio, located just a few miles inland from Ballintoy village.
The experience includes demonstrations by professional glassmaker Andrea Spencer and takes a step by step approach, showing you how to heat and shape glass rods in the flame. Under Andrea’s expert guidance, you will create your own unique hanging suncatcher design, inspired by the unique flora and fauna native to the Causeway coastline.
Please note you will need to follow link and enquire about booking at andreaspencerglass@gmail.com. Participants must be 16yrs or older. Available days are Thursday – Saturday, 10am – 12.30 pm.
Cost:
Personal Experience 1 person half day £115 full day £230
Duo Experience half day £75 full day £150 per person
A Group Experience half day £75 full day £150 per person

Folk Art Embroidery Workshop
2023-09-14 19:30 - 2023-10-26 21:30 | Crescent Art Centre, 2-4 University Rd, Belfast, BT7 1NH, United Kingdom
Join tutor Linda O’Kane and learn various stitches, then combine them into a story cloth of your own. The workshop was inspired by the colourful embroidered story cloths of the Hmong people of Laos, richly portraying their lives.
All materials will be provided but please bring your own scissors to sessions.

About the tutor: Linda has worked in the Antiques/Interior Decoration trade for over 30 years. As a self taught Decorative Artist she has worked in homes throughout the UK, including some superior hotels. A life long love of sewing, patchwork and cross stitch has enabled her to gain excellent experience over the years. She really enjoys teaching, sharing her knowledge and hopefully inspiring others to get creative.

Age Range16+ years

Awe & Alchemy
2023-09-15 09:30 - 2023-11-04 16:30 | The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre, Armagh, 9 Market Street, Armagh, BT61 7BW
The Association for Contemporary Jewellery and Silversmiths Northern Ireland exhibit Awe & Alchemy, celebrating the diverse approaches towards values, material possibility, sustainability, and social connections, through the art of jewellery and adornment.
Showcasing the work of over 20 ACJ members from across the UK, Ireland and further afield, the exhibition opens on September 15th at Armagh Market Place Theatre Gallery, 7 – 9pm.
ACJSNI have partnered with Goldsmith’s Centre to bring some further projects to NI to coincide with this exhibition.

Festive Dorset Button Making Workshop
2023-09-18 08:00 - 17:00 | The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre, Armagh, 9 Market Street, Armagh, BT61 7BW
There is something very satisfying about crafting your own Christmas decorations! In this workshop with textile designer, Debbie McCann, you will be introduced to the heritage craft of Dorset Button making and shown how these fascinating buttons can be made into stunning Christmas decorations to adorn your tree. All materials will be supplied including plenty of sparkly yarn and ribbon in festive colours.

Max No: 8 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Debbie McCann [Wee Yarn Designs]

Clay Capers
2023-09-18 11:00 - 13:00 | Island Arts Centre, The Island, Lisburn, BT27 4RL, United Kingdom
Halloween is coming and there’s plenty of magic for the little ones too! Give the potter’s wheel a whirl and learn how to throw killer shapes, and combine hand building techniques to model one-off creations. Decorate your work with designs of your choice, perhaps go for kooky cats or spooky bats.
Ages: 6 -11

5-Week Hand-Building Course for Beginners & Improvers (Series 1)
2023-09-20 10:30 - 2023-10-18 12:30 | Flowerfield Arts Centre, 185 Coleraine Road, Portstewart, BT55 7HU, United Kingdom
In this five-week course Fiona Shannon will teach participants the basics of hand-building including slab building, coiling, pinch pots and using press moulds to create a variety of different pots such as vases and bowls. In the last session, they will add colour to your pots using a variety of slips.
Should participants have any previous experience, Fiona will be able to assist them in developing their skills and improving their techniques. Items that will be fired and glazed in a clear glaze by the tutor to be collected at a later date.
Please bring apron and wear clothes that you won’t mind getting a little messy. It is advisable to cut your nails short for this class.

Fibre Networks - Growing Connections for Northern Ireland
2023-09-20 14:00 - 16:00 | Ulster Museum, BT9 5AB, United Kingdom
At the heart of the global Fibershed movement is a commitment to creating a textile and clothing culture that enhances soil health and biodiversity through regenerative farming practices grounded in the concept of soil-to-soil systems and the right to livelihood for every person involved in the process from farming to finished garment.
In this short seminar the audience will hear about the growth, successes and challenges faced by members of these collectives and consider how we can continue to grow more sustainable fibre networks in Northern Ireland.
Speakers include Malú Colorín chairperson of Fibreshed Ireland with digital presentation from Shannon Welsh of Fibrevolution who work with the Pacific Northwest Fibershed, USA.
Please book your free ticket using the link below.

Pottery beginners/intermediate workshop
2023-09-20 19:00 - 2023-10-25 21:00 | Island Arts Centre, The Island, Lisburn, BT27 4RL, United Kingdom
Join tutor Andrea McCullough-Alderdice and explore the potter’s wheel and full range of hand-building techniques from pinch pots to coil and slab building, whilst experimenting with slips, velvet underglazes and a full range of glazes.
The cost includes all materials & firings; the course runs every Wednesday for six weeks.

2 PART PUMPKIN PATCH @ THE ASH
2023-09-21 18:30 - 2023-10-05 20:30 | The Ash Gallery, 83 Central Promenade, Newcastle, BT33 0HH, United Kingdom
Join The Clay Project this autumn for a two part workshop creating and glazing your very own ceramic pumpkin patch. Participants will make up to three stoneware pumpkins using handbuilding techniques on September 21st and return on the 5th October for the glazing session.
The pumpkin patch will be fired and ready to collect from The Ash Gallery a week later. This cosy autumn evening will be fuelled with autumnal treats from Birch Coffee.

Latch-Hook Rug Making
2023-09-23 10:00 - 16:00 | Crescent Art Centre, 2-4 University Rd, Belfast, BT7 1NH, United Kingdom
Join tutor Ronan Lee-Smyth for this one-day workshop where you will get the opportunity to explore wool rug making using a traditional latch hooking method.
Exploring aspects of yarn length, knotting, fringing, finishing cuts and edge binding, this workshop will guide participants of all capabilities and interests through the entire chain of production, from initial planning to finished object; exploring materials, tools and techniques as you proceed.
Throughout the workshop, participants will have access to artist references and contextual resources that will assist the creative development of each independent project.
Aiming to be as fun as possible, together we will explore the expanded potential of textile production; identifying the transformative language of rug making by highlighting various methods of display that allow each outcome to be as personal and creative as possible.
