Hands-On Learning: The Impact of In-Person Craft Workshops

There is much to be said for the convenience of learning from a screen and the abundance of tutorials available. But there's something special about in-person learning. Tangible experiences with connections and questions can't fully be replicated virtually.

Consider taking a hands-on workshop next time you're looking to explore a new creative outlet. You might discover a hidden talent, make new friends, and create something beautiful you can cherish for years.

Read on for a deep dive into why in-person craft workshops are more than just opportunities to make something.

During a workshop, you can learn directly from an experienced artisan. The instructor has practised their craft, has learned the pitfalls, tips, and tricks, and can guide you through the process. They can give dedicated, targeted and individualised feedback when needed, and you can pick their brain to ask all your burning questions to satisfy your curiosity. You may want to know what inspired them to start with the craft, how long they've been doing it, or the story behind the worst thing they've ever made. You may want to know the best way to hold a craft knife, how long it will take for your project to dry, or where you can get supplies locally. The instructor will have a wealth of knowledge you can tap into during a workshop.

During a workshop, you'll meet like-minded people. Those who join a workshop are often open to experiencing new things, excited to meet fellow crafters, and willing to share their experience with the craft. The social aspect of workshops can be incredibly motivating and rewarding. Learning together fosters connection as you bond over figuring out your style through the craft. If the workshop is longer, there may even be the opportunity to socialise with other participants over lunch or dinner.

It's rare for someone to try something for the first time and immediately be great at it, and that can be disheartening. But what does being great at something even mean? By who's measure? An important point to note is that while it's lovely if the outcome (the end result) works out as you'd like, often, the most valuable part is the output (the experience and accomplishments). You may find that you make something you never thought you'd be able to make. Or that you enjoyed playing with the materials so much that that adventure was the best part of the workshop. Building your experience through the workshop also builds your confidence to try new things, to experiment and play, and to not be afraid of making a "mistake" (or, as Bob Ross would say, a "happy accident"). 

When you attend an in-person workshop, you create a memory of a time and a place that will stick with you. You'll remember the people you met, the laughs over cups of tea, and the stories people told. You'll remember the feeling of the materials, the new skills learned and the satisfaction of completing a project. Every time you look at the item you made, you'll remember the creativity, the relaxed vibe, and the fun. You'll have created a keepsake, an heirloom that carries your memories of the experience.

Craft workshops provide a deeply enriching experience that's both practical and fulfilling. By attending an in-person workshop, you gain valuable skills, meet inspiring people, and experience the satisfaction of creating something with your hands. You may be a complete beginner, someone who has dipped their toes into the craft, or a seasoned professional; the value of a craft workshop shows itself in many different ways.

Let us know in the comments what impact craft workshops have had on you. And if you're in the Leinster area, why not check out our craft workshops!