Adults who have been thinking about trying something creative are invited to take part in community crafting sessions at Dukeries Community Workshop.
Based near the stables at Dukeries Academy, the workshop is an award-winning, charity-run hub where a growing community of makers meets each week. New participants are always welcome to go along and try something new.
Sessions are led by experienced volunteers and provide hands-on opportunities to learn a wide range of crafts, including silversmithing, kiln fused glass, stained glass, woodturning, wood carving and general woodwork. Specialist courses are also offered throughout the year, including festive wreath making and pyrography. Drop-in sessions start from £5.00, with materials charged separately where required. Participants can attend as often as they wish, whether trying a session once or making it part of a regular weekly routine.
Weekly sessions currently include:
Mondays
- 9.00am to 3.00pm – Wood Carving
- 3.30pm to 5.45pm – General Woodwork
Tuesdays
- 9.00am to 3.00pm – General Woodwork
Wednesdays
- 9.30am to 12.40pm – Kiln Fused Glass
- 1.00pm to 3.00pm – Stained Glass
Thursdays
- 9.30am to 12.30pm – Kiln Fused Glass
- 1.00pm to 3.00pm – Silversmithing
Fridays
- 9.00am to 12.30pm – Walking Stick Making
- 1.00pm to 3.00pm – Kiln Fused Glass
One of the highlights is the silversmithing course, where the first lesson costs £45.00 and includes the opportunity to make two rings. This session is taught by experienced arts and crafts tutor Melanie Eldred and must be booked in advance, while most other workshops operate on a relaxed drop-in basis. What makes Dukeries Community Workshop particularly special is its welcoming atmosphere. The sessions are friendly and supportive, making them suitable for complete beginners as well as more experienced makers.
Many people go along to learn new skills but stay for the sense of community and the chance to share their creativity with others. Anyone looking for a new hobby, a creative outlet or simply an opportunity to meet people is warmly invited to visit and see what they can make.