Arts & crafts

We will look at ways to help you extend the lives of some of your much- loved clothes. You will be able to darn along with me if you would like to. I will show you the traditional technique, then you can perfect it in your own time. I shall demonstrate on a small hole, and a larger one, the technique is the same on both. I shall also show you some examples of more modern styles of darning where the darn is a design statement in its own right, offering you opportunities to be as creative as you like.

If you are a beginner sewer and would like to get started with some small, easy projects, come and join this new course. No previous experience of the sewing machine is necessary. We will start with getting used to the machine and making a simple pin cushion. This will also make us think about what fabric we can recycle and how to use up all the little scraps of fabric you may have and are not sure what to do with. You will find that many useful and decorative items can be created at home using materials you already have instead of buying new.

Learn new skills and crafts! In these 3 fun workshops, learn new skills which will add to your creative side . Cupcake decoration -The purpose of this course is to develop a new skill of Sugar Craft and learn how to make Sugar Flowers and other decorations. A range of edible sugar decorations ready to decorate your cakes, cupcakes and cake pops. Make your key chain -Macramé is a creative knotting technique that can be used to make a variety of items, plant hangers, wall hangings, friendship bracelets, belts, and bags. including jewellery and other decorative items. It’s a great way to relax and create beautiful art pieces for your home. Henna art -. Learn the art of applying Henna on different parts of body. A useful skill to make your family gatherings more fun when applying to each other.

This course will be delivered through a combination of lectures, hands-on shooting assignments, group discussions, and critiques. Participants will have access to photography equipment, tools, and resources for completing assignments. Assignments will include both structured exercises to build technical skills and independent projects to encourage creative exploration. Topics covered will include understanding different genres of photography, exploring diverse photographic styles and techniques, harnessing creativity through observation and experimentation, and developing a personal photographic vision. Emphasis will be placed on cultivating a deeper connection with one's surroundings, embracing curiosity, and honing the ability to see the extraordinary in the ordinary.

In the "Learn to Embellish Your Garments" course, participants embark on a transformative journey into the world of fashion customisation. Students explore various embellishment techniques, from intricate beadwork to delicate embroidery, learning to elevate their garments with personalised flair. Guided by our expert tutor, learners uncover the secrets of selecting materials, mastering stitching methods, and incorporating embellishments harmoniously into their clothing designs. Through hands-on practice and creative experimentation, students cultivate the skills and confidence to infuse their wardrobe with individuality and style. By course completion, participants emerge equipped with the tools and inspiration to embark on a journey of sartorial self-expression. This short course is suitable for beginners as well as those with more experience.

Phonetography Workshop – take better photos! Taking photos with our mobile phone has become our go-to way to capture special moments. This workshop will give you tips and tricks to start getting the pictures you want. Photographs of your children or grandchildren, your pets, your blossoming summer garden – start capturing the things you look at every day and enjoy for longer the wonderful things around you by capturing them digitally on your device. With the help of our experienced tutor, learn how to compose good shots, how to use your camera in different ways to bring variety to your photographs and see how you can share them. Join us for this useful workshop and gain confidence in digital 'phonetography' in a mutually supportive learning environment.

In this course, we embark on an exciting journey into the world of digital photography, focusing on building essential numeracy skills along the way. From understanding camera settings to composing captivating shots, we'll cover the basics of photography in a simple and engaging manner. Through hands-on activities and interactive lessons, participants will learn how to master the fundamentals of photography while simultaneously enhancing their numeracy abilities. Join us to unlock your creativity, improve your photography skills, and boost your confidence in working with numbers!

Photography is a way of seeing, and showing how you see the world around you. Smartphone photography has become increasingly popular. On average, people around the globe take over a trillion photos each year and according to research 92% of these photographs are taken with smartphones! This course will allow you to explore how to use your phone in a more creative way. Instead of taking just one photo of a subject you’re interested in, you will be encouraged to take 10, 20, or even 30 photographs then spend some time looking at your pictures to see which ones you like the best, and why. You will explore what makes an image stand out, looking for unique or unexpected angles, playing with composition to help you create illusions of depth and height. You will also discover how it feels to go out on shoots, visiting different location local to Weston-Super-Mare seafront. At the course’s conclusion, you will experiment with different post making methods, including photomontage, illustration, drawing and hand colouring on to photographs in order to help you produce a Photobook, using a series of images that tell a story about your experience of living in Weston - Super -Mare.

On this course, you will develop an understanding of line drawing techniques and how to apply them to outcomes. We'll start by introducing various line drawing methods with visual examples. Next, you'll gain insights into the distinctions between these techniques, enabling you to effectively compare and contrast them, and pick your favourite to use. Through practical exercises, you'll learn how to apply these techniques. You will have the opportunity to showcase your newfound skills by independently creating a unique piece using one of the line-drawing techniques introduced.

Do you enjoy art and decoration? Join our beginners Decorative Painting group and explore how to paint and decorate various pieces such as potter and glass. The WEA has created a face to face course where you will be in a safe, friendly atmosphere within your community and learning with like minded people. Discover different techniques such as block printing and ceramic painting whilst being led by our expert arts and crafts tutor. You will be using upcycled materials as well as lino blocks onto different papers and fabrics and you are welcome to bring your own to decorate.