Have a go at... getting creative with Brewhouse Crafts

Last night, we attended a festive garland workshop at Making it! Discovery Centre, Mansfield. Tucked away three floors up in what was once a working brewery, is the aptly named ‘Brewhouse Crafts’. Crafting has seen a resurgence of late, with people keen to learn new skills which they can use again and again. A new initiative from the museum sees adults invited to take part in all manner of workshops from sweet trees and bunting, to seasonal one-offs for Christmas and Easter. Classes are held both mid-morning and evening giving people the chance to pop in at a time to suit them. Prices vary (the festive garland cost a reasonable £15) with materials and light refreshments included. The workshops last around two hours, giving you plenty of time to benefit from the on hand tuition provided, and enjoy a break in between for a drink and a catch-up. The room in which the workshops take place is a crafter’s paradise. Row upon row of jars filled with ribbons and embellishments adorn shelves, and crafts from previous workshops sit proudly on display. Tables were grouped in a classroom fashion, allowing plenty of work space for each crafter, but also the chance to sit with friends and share skills and knowledge. All materials were provided, from the basics including floristry wire, oasis and tape, to wonderful trimmings for that perfect finishing touch. You could even buy additional treasures of cinnamon sticks, berries and dried orange slices (at a small price) to make your piece really shine. A trained florist (Linda) was on hand to talk the group step by step through the process of making a garland or centre piece. Instructions were clear and straightforward, and Linda continually checked on the group's progress throughout the evening (helping with the more trickier steps). The atmosphere was relaxed and informal, with plenty of encouragement and praise from both the on-hand help and fellow crafters, each proud of their own handiwork. Festive music provided the perfect ambiance to get everyone into the festive spirit, and chocolates were generously handed round. Everyone was well cared for throughout the entire evening. Each crafter went home with something truly unique to them, a sense of pride and a smile to boot. The joy of having something which you made yourself take pride of place in your home is like no other, and the sense of achievement at having learnt a new skill was definitely worthwhile. I will no doubt be returning for more craft events in the near future. You can find photos from the event, and information about upcoming workshops on the Brewhouse Crafts Facebook Page. A brand new programme of events will begin in the New Year, with plans for Easter workshops too. If you’re looking for something different to brighten those wintry Wednesday evenings, we definitely recommend a place on a workshop. The workshops are great to attend both alone or as a group - and everyone is welcome. They would make for a unique gift or hen party treat too. Tickets for the events and beautifully hand-crafted pieces can be purchased via the online shop. Are you doing any crafting this Christmas? If so, we'd love to hear about it in the comments below. Merry Christmas!