Top 10 Best Upcycling classes, courses, learnings kits and gifts in the UK

Art4Space are thrilled to announce we have the keys to our new 'Make and Mend' Space. We are preparing the space, and it boasts some impressive features, including its location in the communal garden and a wealth of amazing resources. Our focus will be textiles and sustainable practices, repair, and revive. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the generous sponsorship and donations from Mace, Structure Tone, Specialist Lighting, Arena Electrical, Sale Mechanical, and Winters Electrical, helping us bring this vision to life. Their support has been instrumental in fitting out the space with all the necessary equipment and materials to make it a welcoming and inspiring environment for our community. A big thank you to Richard Walker, our Chair, without whom this project would not have been possible. Also, thanks to Singer who has donated 2 sewing machines. To celebrate the start of our new adventure, we are offering some exciting taster classes at a special price of just £20 per workshop. We are inviting you to join us and help us inaugurate the space while providing valuable feedback. Feel free to book as many as you like, bring along friends, and capacity for 8 makers. All welcome. The official opening of the space is on 6th July and a crowdfunding appeal to launch a full programme of activities in the year ahead. Our regular tutors will be teaching these classes, and they are experts in their field. **A selection of dates and times to try out: ** Felting: Learn to felt a small animal, keyring or broach using sheep wool – making your armature to create a cute creature or decoration. DATE and TIME: Thur 23d May June 6.30 – 9pm Kanzashi Flowers: If you are a zero-waster crafter, then this one is for you: Learn how to make a Kanzashi flower. She will show you the Japanese technique of folding upcycled fabrics to create a flower which can then be a broach or clip. We have all the fixings and treasures to adorn your flower. We are hoping Mo can join us, who has set up a Kanzashi enterprise for Art4Space and sells in our shop for purposeful profits to fund our crafternoons. DATE and TIME: Thur 30th May 6.30 -9pm Bling an item of clothing: Why not bring your cycle tabard or favourite Jeans Jacket or a treasured piece that you want to customize with embroidery and adornment? Applique techniques are shown. A huge range of treasures for you. DATE and TIME: Thurs 6th June 6.30 -9pm Doodle stitching: Begin by learning several styles for outlining, filling, decorating and applique. Find out about floss, fancy threads, fabrics and needles DATE and TIME: Thur 13h June 6.30 – 9pm Vintage Quilted Purse: My dear friend recently donated lots of beautiful vintage fabrics, every patchwork purse design is a limited edition – unique! Learn how to sew in a zip using a sewing machine. DATE and TIME: Thurs 20th June 6.30 – 9pm Mending clothing: Including Boro – Japanese-inspired mending—hand sewing repairs. DATE and TIME: Thurs 27th June 6.30 – 9pm

The 3 hour workshop will come with inspiring choice of scarfs, trims and trinkets to embellish a either you own jacket or one we can provide for a small fee. Do with this a group of fellow Sustainable style and upcyling lovers, in a all purpose workroom and learn from Upcyling clothing expert of over 40yrs. you will need a little experience and can bring you're own materials to add that special touch.

This class is to learn new skills for life. In this class you will learn how to darn holes in clothes loved by moths, caught on something and ripped or a pocket used over and over. How to re-sew a dropped hem and hand sewing a patch that will stay in place for years to come. Plus, any specific hand sewing stitches you would like to learn; I just ask to be informed beforehand to ensure I can touch up my own skills if needed. This class is for all ages, abilities and can be booked as a 1 to 1 class or as a group class. You will be in safe hands learning from myself (Claire) The Ethical Tailor with 3 years of teaching behind me in sewing skills. These classes also give back when brought, giving to a project helping people with learning difficulties gain cooking skills in the UK. This class will only happen on the dates and times shown.

Stop throwing your old t-shirts away and learn how to turn recycled fabrics into art! This class is suited to anyone and everyone, no prior experience in rag rugging (or anything to be honest!) required. In this class You will learn both the rag rugging techniques (loopy and shaggy) to turn your rags into a beautiful personalised tote bag, perfect for doing your shopping! What's not to love? On top of it all, there is no need to bring anything yourself. We will provide you with: The tote bag (see our watermelon design below) Plenty of fabric (although do feel free to bring along any of your old threads) A wooden latch hook (worth, £3.99 so you're already making savings here!) Tasty treats and refreshments (we are Tea & Crafting after all!)

During this workshop, you will design your own headband whilst being taught how to do so with designer Manon Whittle. First, you will choose your own handmade headband which rrp at £30 (This is included in the price you pay on Obby). Your new signature hairband is upcycled and as Manon is an independent business what's not to love and support. Plus, you'll be able to add your own touch in this guided workshop! You will then spend a few hours customising your headband; learning how to embroider and sew amongst other little tricks and embellishments. There is also a pop-up shop downstairs to browse, and a sprinkling of free Prosecco and nibbles for those who'd like. The class provides: The chance to meet the designer All decorations and materials needed Take home your creation Learn new skills Pop-up shop of the new collection Free Prosecco Prizes Meet new people Make something unique