We unpick the city to uncover the best creative hotspots
Words Julia Krupska
London is famed for offering eclectic frivolity wherever you turn, but there’s one element that’s often overlooked. Bursting at the seams, quite literally, is an underworld of creative magic encouraging those with an imagination, and a pair of hands, to get a little crafty. Whether you’re a seasoned expert, or craving a chance to try something new, it’s never too late to add more to your skillset. Here’s our pick of the best places to put your creativity to the test.
Calligraphy
With the likes of Burberry, Nike and Jimmy Choo in their client archive, Lamplighter London opens a series of intimate calligraphy workshops for the public. Discover the intricacies of the pen and develop beautiful techniques with founder and author of Nib + Ink, Chiara Perano. You’ll also receive a personalised selection of stationery treats to take away and continue exercising your calligraphic craft.
Workshops run seasonally. Sign up to the mailing list at lamplighterlondon.com.
Food Styling
In the age of Instagram foodies, taste buds have taken a backseat and it’s never been more favoured to photograph and upload an aesthetically pleasing dish. With the help of food writer and stylist, Jennifer Joyce, and former deputy food editor of BBC Good Food magazine, Sarah Cook – you certainly won’t need to invest in a five-star dining experience to do so. Their six-week evening course will teach you all tricks of the trade, kit essentials, tips on food photography and prop styling.
Upcoming dates released soon at leiths.com. For further enquiries, email [email protected] or call 020 8749 6400.
Candle-making
Tucked away in the heart of Belgravia is the luxurious art of candle-making. Rachel Vosper opens her candle boutique for those wishing to create bespoke candles in etched glass containers, along with a selection of fragranced decorations – all of which you can take home after. With a complimentary glass of champagne to accompany refreshments, you’re in for a truly enjoyable experience.
The course runs for two hours – available on a date and time of your choice at £600 for six people, £100 each. For further enquiries or to make a booking call 020 7235 9666 or visit rachelvosper.com.
Embroidery
Firmly believing that clarity of the heart, mind and purpose can be achieved through engagement of a creative skill, Laura Lees presents The Mighty Stitch. Her embroidery-led programmes encourage bespoke stitchwork to be curated through the essence of team-building, whilst also promoting a sense of wellbeing. It’s the perfect suggestion to bring up at your next board meeting.
Email all enquiries to [email protected] or visit laura-lees.com.
Origami
Ever longed for the secret to the perfect flapping bird? Wonder no more, thanks to Britain’s leading origami artist Sam Tsang and his private, champagne-included, workshops. Gather a group of friends, split the price and indulge in a totally customisable workshop tailored entirely to your preferences – a choice of mindful, collaborative or educational themes make for a pleasurably nostalgic folding experience.
90-minute workshops available on an evening of your choice at £275 for up to six people. For further information or to book visit trulyexperiences.com.
Luxury Chocolate Workshop
It’s never been so easy to alleviate chocolate cravings than by indulging in it first-hand. Grab a partner and learn how to blend decadent chocolate martinis, decorate tasty fudge blocks and revel in the delightful taste of fruitful truffles. If that hasn’t sold you, the complimentary supply of bubbly sure will.
Workshops run for three hours every Friday and Saturday, with the occasional Thursday and Sunday. Tickets are £80 for two people. Book here redletterdays.co.uk.
Screen Printing
If you’re a dab hand at Photoshop and looking to create an arty one-off wonder, Print Club London are hosting two-day deluxe workshops offering the chance to create your very own bespoke screen print. With the help of an expert tutor, you’ll digitally create your design – coat, expose and wash screens before delving into the magic of mixing inks and curating layers.
Workshops run over two days starting on Thursday 8th December and Monday 19th December, at £150. Book here printclublondon.com.
