- Feel Good
- 9th May 2025
- 0
- 0 minute
Swap your screens for these artisan workshops across the North East
Forget doomscrolling and delivery apps – across the North East, people are swapping their screens for spinning wheels, lino cutters, and candle moulds.
From Newcastle’s urban studios to the rural charm of County Durham, artisan workshops are booming, offering different experiences that are as satisfying as they are Instagram-worthy.
We’ve pulled together a list of various workshops across the region – whether you’re keen to carve a spoon or craft a candle that smells like a summer meadow, there’s a workshop waiting for you.
POTTERY
The Pottery Experience
81 Fern Avenue, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 2RA
The Pottery Experience in Jesmond is the go-to spot for anyone keen to get a little muddy and a lot creative. From wheel-throwing tasters to paint-your-own sessions, their friendly workshops are perfect for beginners and budding potters alike. Expect expert guidance, plenty of laughs, and a handmade keepsake to be proud of.
Muddy Fingers Pottery
9 Royal Industrial Estate, Blackett Street, Jarrow, NE32 3HR
Over in Jarrow, Muddy Fingers Pottery is where serious craftsmanship meets laid-back creativity. Led by expert potters Marv and Diane, their workshops offer everything from the very basics to specialist techniques like raku firing, all with a warm, no-pressure vibe. It’s the perfect place to try something new!
WEAVING AND FELTING
Lena Archbold
Studio 5, Courtyard, Arts Centre Washington, Washington, NE38 8AB
In her cosy studio at the Arts Centre Washington, textile artist Lena Archbold invites you to explore the tactile world of feltmaking and textile art. Her workshops delve into techniques like wet felting, nuno felting, and botanical printing, offering a hands-on experience that blends creativity with mindfulness. Whether you’re crafting a delicate scarf or a vibrant felted picture, Lena’s guidance ensures a rewarding journey into the art of textiles.
We Are Wild
The Walled Garden, Sockburn Lane, Neasham, Darlington, DL2 1PH
Tucked away near Darlington, We Are Wild hosts weaving and felting workshops that are all about slowing down and getting hands-on with natural materials. From crafting willow baskets to creating colourful felt masterpieces, their sessions are packed with creativity, fresh air and homemade cake (the real MVP). It’s the perfect excuse to escape into the countryside and come home with something beautiful.
CANDLE MAKING
Worthy Wax
Studio 4C 4th Floor, Siemens House, Carliol Square, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6UF
In the heart of Newcastle, Worthy Wax offers candle-making workshops that blend creativity with purpose. Led by founders Charlotte and Steven Gibbons, these sessions guide you through crafting your own soy wax candle and wax melts, all while supporting a good cause – 10% of profits go to the Trussell Trust Foodbanks. It’s a delightful way to spend an afternoon, leaving you with a handmade creation and the warm glow of giving back.
Hot Wax
John Marley Centre, Muscott Grove, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE15 6TT
Hot Wax offers cocktail candle-making workshops at Newcastle’s iconic venue, Revolution Bar, where you can create your own eco-friendly candles in a fun setting. From choosing your scent to pouring the wax, the process is as enjoyable as the finished product. You’ll leave with a beautiful handmade candle and a cocktail-fuelled sense of accomplishment.
PRINTMAKING
Newcastle Arts Centre
67 Westgate Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SG
Newcastle Art Centre offers a range of creative classes, but their printmaking workshops are truly something to get excited about. Including screen printing, monoprinting and etching, these sessions led by experienced artists provide hands-on experience in various techniques, ensuring participants gain practical skills and creative insights. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your craft, the centre’s workshops offer a welcoming environment to explore and develop your printmaking abilities.
Sunderland Culture
Liberty Way, Roker, Sunderland, SR6 0GL
If you’re looking for something suitable for the younger generations, Sunderland Culture’s Printing, Pattern and Textiles workshops at the National Glass Centre are a brilliant way for children and young people to get creative this summer. Designed for ages 6 and up, these fun, 90-minute sessions let participants experiment with textile printing, drawing inspiration from the Centre’s stunning exhibitions. It’s the perfect chance for young artists to unleash their inner designer and take home their very own fabric creation.
JEWELLERY MAKING AND BEYOND
Colourbuzz
Vane Tempest Hall, Durham, DH1 1QF
Fancy being the designer of your own jewellery? Colourbuzz in Durham offers workshops in copper and clay jewellery making, introducing participants to traditional metalworking techniques. Perfect for anyone who loves fashion and wants to make one-of-a-kind pieces to wear or gift, you’ll get the chance to create beautiful, bespoke jewellery from scratch.
The Crafty Hen
You choose the location!
For a hen party with a creative twist, The Crafty Hen in Newcastle offers fun, laid-back workshops that let you and your friends get crafty together. Whether you’re designing personalised garters or creating flower crowns, these sessions are all about having fun and making memories. With everything provided for you, it’s a perfect way to add a personal touch to the celebrations while enjoying some downtime with your bridal crew.
These workshops not only preserve traditional crafts but also foster community and personal well-being. As more people seek meaningful, hands-on experiences, the North East’s artisan scene continues to thrive, offering opportunities to learn, create, and connect.
Comments