Ref: SLW35485
Learn how to make a beautiful, but strong, sustainable and functional bag, and how to strengthen the bag to make it more durable. You will learn how flexible and relaxing raffia craft is, how adaptable it is to new designs, and importantly, how working with raffia is a lovely way to spend time relaxing, whilst making beautiful items and learning new skills. You will be provided with full printed instructions on the technique and also the patterns for completing a medium bag, with handles of your choice.
You will learn about the origins of raffia, how it can be dyed and the various ways in which beautiful accessories can be produced – for yourself or your home. The emphasis in the workshop will be on learning the weaving technique that can be applied to make beautiful and sustainable bags and hats.
Beginners, as well as those who have basic sewing or raffia craft experience, are very welcome on this workshop, but there is definitely no need for any prior raffia or other experience, nor do you need to have specialist equipment. You will receive guidance and personal tuition to teach you the skills needed, and it is envisaged that all will leave the class with a completed bag. The key objectives for any raffia work is always to be able to relax and enjoy the craft.
On this course the tutor will supply most of the materials including raffia, fastenings, handles and molds to use.
Pair of scissors (comfortable and sharp enough to cut raffia) Thimble, if you like to use when sewing
Available from tutor: Raffia for the course, plus additional raffia if you would like to make additional items
Wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear i.e. no open-toes or sandals.
Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above
Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.
Daily timetable
Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.
From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).
Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.
Last day
Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.
Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.
(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)
Claire Richards has been teaching raffia craft for over 25 years. She learnt her craft from a visiting Australian in 1993 and since then has been hooked. Claire exhibits at a number of major and regional events where her focus is on passing on her enthusiasm for raffia.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
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