To Make and To Take: Workshops You’ll Love this Winter
You’ve probably been busying checking the family calendar and signing the kids up for classes like gymnastics, swimming, art and other fun activities that will keep them active and happy this winter. However, did you stop and consider signing yourself up for hands-on workshop that will get you out of the house to explore your create side?
Now is the perfect time to register for a night out for yourself (or with friends) where you can learn a new craft, create a special piece or develop a new skill. It may seem overwhelming, but we’ve got your covered. Here’s a list of exciting workshops that will have you blocking the dates off in your calendar before you’re done reading.
Fabric Crush
Classes: Sew a bag or shirt
Pack up your sewing machine (even if you have to dust it off first) and sign up for one of the Fabric Crush classes this winter. We love the ambitious projects for seasoned sewers like this beautiful sweater and the projects for beginners are just as impressive like the retreat bag that includes the free pattern.
FlowerNite
Classes: Create a floral arrangement
This is a colourful and fresh twist on the traditional group night events. At this workshop, you’ll create your own flower display which we think is the perfect anecdote to these grey days of winter. The events happen across Ottawa and you can find a location and date near you on their website.
Nepean Visual Arts Centre
Class: Canvas and Cocktails (Paint and learn about wine while sipping it!)
You don’t have to be the next master artist or sommelier to enjoy the interactive and very unique Canvas and Cocktails at the Nepean Creative Arts Centre. Not only do you get to paint on a large canvas, but you will be tasting wines from around the world with details shared by a professional sommelier. The next date is set for February 16. Grab a friend for this one.
Flowers Talk Tivoli
Classes: Find inspiration with succulents and spring flowers
We really love bringing fresh foliage into the house, especially at this time of year. If you feel the same, you’ll love the terrarium or spring floral arrangement workshops at Flowers Talk Tivoli in Westboro. Most of their workshops are in the evening so you can skip out on bedtime at home. That’s a win-win for many.
Wabi-Sabi
Classes: Be more tactile with felt painting and weaving workshops
We love the knitting and felting workshop opportunities at Wabi-Sabi. Try something completely unique by signing up for the felt painting class, or check out the weaving workshop in March where you can learn to make bracelets, belts, and bag straps. You can even register one of your children if they are over the age of eight to join you.
1890 Natural Bath Co.
Classes: Make your own bath bombs
Pampering yourself is even easier when you can make your own bath bombs at 1890 – Natural Bath Co. Located outside of Ottawa in the quaint town of Merrickville, their bath bomb making workshop can be a part of your day-trip outing. Gather some girlfriends to register for one of their next sessions that will be taking place at the end of January.
Fabrications
Classes: Try your hand at cross-stitching
At Fabrications in Wellington West, you can put your sewing skills to the test or take a specialized workshop like cross stitching. Materials are provided and the next beginner cross stitch class begins on February 28. You will also found workshops for blanket scarves and pillow covers.
The Urban Element
Classes: Learn new recipes
We can’t forget about the foodies and those who have added ‘learning to cook new recipes’ on their New Year’s resolution list. The Urban Element offers cooking classes for all levels. You can take a Masterclass in Italian pasta, or a hands-on winter food class featuring chicken pot pie and bread pudding. There’s a workshop for everyone’s food taste.
Willow and Rose
Classes: Say it with a sign
If you prefer to have something long-lasting in your home after the workshop is complete, we think you’ll fall in love with the whimsy and thoughtfulness of a Willow and Rose sign that you make yourself. You can find classes taking place in Kemptville, but Ottawa locations at local restaurants and cafes are also available.
