Hands-On Workshops with Suffolk Craft Society Makers
Discover the joy of being creative with our talented members sharing their expertise in heritage crafts through hands-on, immersive sessions. Whether held in their own studios or at special venues, these workshops offer a unique opportunity to learn directly from skilled artisans, gaining insights into traditional techniques and contemporary craftsmanship.
Why take a workshop?
Learn from the Experts, our makers are highly skilled in their craft, offering specialist guidance and tailored instruction.
Heritage Skills, Modern Creativity, explore time-honored techniques and discover how they are applied in today’s craft world.
Hands-On Experience, enjoy practical, engaging sessions where you create your own unique piece.
Small Groups, Personalised Learning, benefit from focused teaching in an inspiring, supportive environment.
Whether you're a beginner looking to try something new or a maker wanting to refine your skills, these workshops provide an invaluable learning experience while supporting local craftspeople.
Ceramics Workshops
Take your pottery skills to the next level with Neville Tatham. He leads masterclass-style sessions at Colchester Makerspace focusing on two specialized techniques: creating large-scale pottery and the art of sprig making.
In his 6-hour workshops (divided into three sessions), you'll dive into advanced throwing techniques for crafting impressive large ware on the wheel. Learn how to prepare clay for oversized throws, master centering heavy amounts of clay, and refine your ability to pull tall forms. You'll also explore composite pottery, blending throwing and coiling methods to create distinctive, dynamic shapes.
Ceramics Workshops
Workshops run from 10am to 4pm. and include lunch and all necessary materials. The day can be customized to your preferences, whether you're interested in throwing, smokefiring, slip decoration, or handbuilding. All experience levels are welcome.
Glass Workshops
With nearly two decades of experience working with glass, a BA in Silversmithing & 3D Design, and a postgraduate certificate in education, Clare brings both expertise and a passion for teaching.
Clare specialises in one-to-one torch work, offering tailored guidance to help you develop your skills, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your technique.
Leather Workshops
Join Mark Papworth for an introductory one-day course covering the basics of tool use, materials, and techniques, with the objective that participants will leave the course with a useful item they have made.
More advanced teaching is available, including box making, wet moulding leather, and bag making. Mark also offers leatherworking courses specifically tailored for re-enactors.
Working from his studio in North West Suffolk Mark can teach up to five people at a time, depending on the course content and all necessary materials and tools for the course are provided. Contact Mark to book or for further details >>>
Jewellery Workshops
Join Helen Smith for an inspiring jewellery-making workshop, where you’ll learn traditional silversmithing techniques and create your own unique piece in a relaxed and creative environment.
These hands-on workshops focus on traditional jewellery-making techniques, allowing you to craft unique silver jewellery. Workshops take place at EJArt in Hasketon and Field Studies Centre at Flatford, offering the perfect setting to immerse yourself in the art of jewellery making.
Printmaking Workshops
Helen offers small-group workshops from her studio in Suffolk. These workshops are tailored for 1–4 people but larger groups may be catered for at Stoke Bridge in Ipswich.
Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to enhance your skills, these hands-on sessions will guide you through the lino printing process, from design to finished print.