Our Creative Cuppa group has been going for a few months now and we’re so excited to see it taking off! We have seen a huge variety of people of all sorts of ages and abilities coming through our doors.
One of our favourite things about Creative Cuppa is seeing local people of all ages sharing their skills and teaching us all new things. In one of the first ever sessions in May 2023, Julian (who began The Art of Kindness project) showed us how to braid friendship bracelets using a handmade cardboard template. Inspired by this, we laser cut our own templates into wood over at The Factory and since then they have been a popular craft choice at every session. Regular Creative Cuppa-er Frank has made dozens of braids in all sorts of colours, even learning how to make more advanced braids using YouTube.
Another Creative Cuppa-er named Oliver created a 3D printed version of the template which we have been taking for a spin too. Oliver also led a whole session teaching us how to make yarn diamonds – made by weaving a design out of yarn onto crisscrossing sticks. This was his first time teaching and he found it to be an enjoyable experience. He was very impressed that everyone he taught managed to make one.
We have collaborated with other facilitators too. Suzie from Filwood Community Centre came to run a session making cyanotypes (blueprints of photo negatives, flowers, or objects). They usually expose in UV light from sunshine but since it was a rainy day, we went for a DIY setup using a UV light bulb to expose our prints inside. It was fun to reminisce over KWMC’s origins as a photography studio!
We have played with some digital equipment during sessions as well. Local mum Becky wanted to create some personalised ‘thank you’ gifts for schoolteachers with her friends. So together we designed personal bookmarks and keyrings on the computer then laser cut them. We got some more creative technology inspiration in another session by inviting a Masters Immersive Technology (University of Bristol) student named James to test his creative augmented reality experience which used data from our Twinergy project.
Here’s just a few things people have said about our sessions so far:
I enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, the company and interaction. Varied art subjects and topics to try.
– Frank, a Creative Cuppa regular
Super friendly staff and people. Creative activities sharing knowledge
– Clair after her first Creative Cuppa
It’s been so lovely to see people gaining confidence in their creativity. So many people have said ‘I can’t do it!’ but with a bit of encouragement next thing we know they’ve made one and sometimes they’re even helping someone else do it too.
– Ella, Creative Cuppa facilitator
We are excited to continue our Creative Cuppas. Come and join us for free hot drinks, chats and creative making. Freestyle with any materials you like or follow along with an easy little project. All ages and abilities are welcome. No experience needed, just have a play. Not in the mood for creativity or chats? Welcome to just come and have a quiet cuppa, use our speedy free WiFi, or browse our free clothing donations.
At this time of writing in 2023, Creative Cuppa is part of the Welcoming Spaces network. A Welcoming Space is a place where people can shelter from the weather, socialise with others, take part in activities and access support. Find other Welcoming Spaces near you here.
If you have any questions or if you would like to sign up to our mailing list to find out what we’re planning to make each week, email ella.chedburn@kwmc.org.uk or call us on 0117 903 0444.