Craft, calm and creativity for adult learners
Discover the pleasure of making something with your own hands. City Academy Handmade Arts is a new portfolio of craft-based courses designed for adults who want to slow down, switch off from screens, and reconnect with creativity in a friendly, supportive setting.
From embroidery and kintsugi to sewing, knitting and macramé, each course blends practical skills with mindfulness, sustainability and community. Whether you are a complete beginner or returning to craft after years away, you’ll find a space to experiment, learn and relax.
What you’ll experience
Across the Handmade Arts portfolio, you will:
- Learn core techniques in embroidery, sewing, knitting, crochet and more
- Explore “slow creativity” – taking time, paying attention, and enjoying the process
- Work with beautiful materials and simple tools to create something tangible
- Discover sustainable approaches such as visible mending and upcycling
- Build confidence through step-by-step teaching and achievable projects
- Enjoy calm, focused sessions in small, friendly groups
Handmade Arts Courses
Each course is taught by an experienced craft tutor in a well-equipped studio. Formats include one-day weekend workshops and 4–5 week evening courses.
Learn contemporary embroidery techniques and design your own piece that tells a personal story through colour, texture and motif.
Discover the Japanese art of kintsugi – repairing broken ceramics with gold-effect seams – and explore themes of resilience, imperfection and repair.
A gentle introduction to hand sewing, visible mending and simple textile projects, with a focus on sustainability and mindful making.
Get to grips with the sewing machine, from threading and tension to seams and simple garments or homeware projects.
Learn the basics of knitting while developing a soothing, rhythmic practice you can return to again and again.
Master essential crochet stitches and techniques as you create your first finished piece, such as a scarf, cushion cover or small accessory.
Turn old textiles into new treasures. Learn rag rug techniques that upcycle fabric into bold, textured home décor.
Explore contemporary knotting to create wall hangings, plant holders and accessories with a clean, modern look.
Transform everyday objects with paper, pattern and varnish, and leave with a unique decorative piece of your own.
Register your interest
We will be publishing new class dates soon - please register your interest and we will be in touch with more information.
Select your Entry Level:
Register your interest
We will be publishing new class dates soon - please register your interest and we will be in touch with more information.
Select your Entry Level:
No Venue
All City Academy tutors are experienced professionals from theatre, film/TV and performance industries. So whilst they're training you they may also be rehearsing for a West End show or working on a movie. We like that and we do believe it makes a difference in class.
No Tutor
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