127 Recreational courses in Bicester

Commission an original, traditional and quirky Portrait in oils, acrylics or digital sketches

Stone Carving made a return to the Phoenix last year when we welcomed Mark Stonestreet to come teach us the joys of creating free-standing abstract sculpture. It was an absolutely fantastic course! This year Mark is coming back for more and this time we’re giving the students more stone to create with and more time – 5 days to be precise! The dusty nature of stone means that we will be working under a marquee set within the studio’s beautiful meadow – what better way to spend your summer – especially when none of us can go abroad? Outside of a global pandemic, Mark spends half the year creating sculpture in the South Downs and the other half in Mamallapuram in India – a village of over 200 stone carving workshops. His life is in stone and I liked him the instant we met. He is everything you would expect a stone carver to be – sturdy, weathered (meant in the nicest possible way, I promise Mark!) with a warm, no-nonsense personality that immediately puts you at ease. Our students are in safe hands working with him and I cannot wait to see what they will achieve this year! 23/08/2021 - 27/08/2021 10:00 am - 4:30 pm Location: The Phoenix Studio This fun course includes: Informal, relaxed & attentive guidance for every student, provided by Mark Stonestreet Step-by-step demonstrations covering… How to work with the tools and stone safely, How to create an abstract design that will look good and have structural integrity, How to transfer your design to the stone and carve into it efficiently to create the basic shape, How to add detail and refine the carved form, How to finish and present the form (looking at finishes, treatment, and mounting). This course is for you if: You want to realise drawings and 2D designs into 3D or have an introduction to visualizing your ideas in 3D You want to explore your creativity but lack the confidence to do so on your own You want to learn how to work safely and competently in stone You want to get away from it all and immerse yourself in a fun, creative environment Suitable for? Anyone, but please note that you will be using a chisel and mallet throughout the three days and this will take it’s toll on your arms and body. We generally limit the age to 16 years old+ though exceptions can be made where appropriate. Please contact James Orts and ask. What is included in the price? Five full days tuition (10 am-4.30 pm) Materials, including a piece of Portland stone (approximately 55cm x 25cm x 22cm), safety gear, and the tools you will need for when on the course You could consider making a simple printed course handout outlining the technique’s main principles and useful links/suppliers – Totally your choice though! Tea, coffee, biscuits/cakes Use of a beautiful, purpose-built art studio with all the equipment & materials you will need Beautiful countryside setting Pre-course prep It would be useful to gather, sketch out or think about what abstract shapes you are drawn to. Mark will be able to provide ideas as well and advise you on which of your ideas may work best so having some ideas to work from would be useful. You will be working outdoors so come prepared for the forecasted weather and all students must work in sturdy shoes. You will be sent an automated email on booking which prompts you towards documents that help you prepare for your time here. If this does not happen then please email James before the course.   Beyond The Course Having completed a Phoenix Studio course many of our students choose to explore the medium further. They may come on another weekend course, start coming to our Phoenix Art Club Sessions or our Creative Monday Sessions, or carry on independently at home. We are more than happy to help and advise you in taking those first creative steps! Need accommodation? If you are travelling from further afield and would like to stay in the area for your visit then have a look at our recommend B&Bs and hotels. Click here for the list.

1-2-1 Tuition ‘Learn something new and master your craft’Pattern cutting, making, design and business consultancy for Bags and Accessories Join us in the Hands of Tym Workshop, Oxfordshire (UK) for a day of learning and making. Learn directly from Leathersmith and London College of Fashion Lecturer, Georgie Tym. Who is 1-2-1 tuition for?1-2-1 tuition is ideal for those who want a tailor made session. An excellent choice if you’re looking to make a bag, pattern cutting, discuss your ideas or bag designs, or to engage in consultancy for your business. What to expect No matter your leather crafting dreams or goals, 1-2-1 tuition has you covered. Time: Sessions run from 10am - 4pm. There will be a light lunch served at midday and tea/ coffee breaks throughout. Location: Sessions can be run online or from the Workshop of Hands Of Tym in Banbury, Oxfordshire, OX16 9DH. Parking: Parking is available on the drive with easy access via the M40. Transport: Banbury train station is a 30 min walk. Trains run from both London Marylebone and Birmingham to Banbury in 50 minutes. We’re also well connected to Reading, Oxford, and Leamington Spa. What's included in the price? Materials are an ADDITIONAL cost. This includes all the leather, hardware and other materials required. There will be a selection of leather and hardware colours for you to choose from on the day or you may bring your own to use. Cancellation policy Easy - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 2 weeks before the course starts About Georgie at Hands of Tym During training at Cordwainers, London College of Fashion in 2010 I learnt how to design, make and manufacture bags professionally. Following a varied career in Accessories design and development across many roles and international brands I set up Hands of Tym in 2016. The courses I offer are suitable for all, from experienced to total novice. Come along to learn something new, and design and make your own leather bag in a day.

Learn the Essentials of Gift Wrapping & have some fun with your team this festive season  What’s included (and how it will help): Step by step tuition covering all the Essential Techniques of gift wrapping so they never need to grab a gift/bottle bag again Practical guidance on tying different styles of Ribbon Bow so they can confidently use them on any gift (and when it’s best to use each one) Learn Pro tips so you feel less overwhelmed & can gift wrap quickly at busy times Plus all materials are provided A class is a great opportunity for team building/bonding so that people get to know each other outside of a work setting and/or meet people in person. It’s an inclusive alternative to a Christmas party (boozy meals/discos aren’t for everyone) and everyone gets to take away a gift at the end of the class. Packages start from £597 for groups of up to 10 people. Dates & times can be booked to suit. Book a call below to discuss your requirements.

This course is ideal for all, from beginners to confident makers. You will learn the basics of leather craft for accessories and be introduced to techniques including machine stitching on leather, hand finishing and hand cutting. You will also be working with the full spectrum of leather types from soft leathers and suedes to a hard sturdy veg tanned leather. This is a perfect introductory course to start your journey into leatherwork and bag making as you will experience the wide variety of tasks involved in the work. In order to complete your bag in a day we will use part pre-prepared components and the bag will be made from a ‘Hands of Tym’ pattern but do not fear there is still plenty of work for you to do. During the day you will be directed by your tutor Leathersmith and London College of Fashion Lecturer Georgie Tym to make a 'Turned seam' Leather backpack with drawstring and flap closure. It will have raw edge straps with buckles to adjust and one flat pocket. The dimensions of the bag are 250mm x 310mm x 200mm. The bag is fully lined and it will be the same construction as the bag in the photos - please contact for more info or view online Parking available on the drive with easy access via the M40. Banbury train station is a 30 min walk. Trains run from both London Marylebone and Birmingham to Banbury in 50mins. Also well connected to Reading, Oxford, Leamington Spa to name a few. Maximum class size is 3-4 What's included in the price? There are no additional costs. All leather, hardware and other materials will be included. There will be a selection of leather and hardware colours for you to choose from.There will be lunch served at midday and tea/ coffee breaks throughout. Cancellation policy Easy - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 2 weeks before the course starts About Georgie at Hands of Tym During training at Cordwainers, London College of Fashion in 2010 I learnt how to design, make and manufacture bags professionally. Following a varied career in Accessories design and development across many roles and international brands I set up Hands of Tym in 2016. The courses I offer are suitable for all, from experienced to total novice. Come along to learn something new, and design and make your own leather bag in a day.

A private beginner embroidery workshop from Hoop & Fred tailored just for you!

This course is ideal for all, from beginners to confident makers. You will learn the basics of leather craft for accessories and be introduced to techniques including machine stitching on leather, hand finishing and hand cutting. You will also be working with the full spectrum of leather types from soft leathers and suedes to a hard sturdy veg tanned leather. This is a perfect introductory course to start your journey into leatherwork and bag making as you will experience the wide variety of tasks involved in the work. In order to complete your bag in a day we will use part pre-prepared components and the bag will be made from a ‘Hands of Tym’ pattern but do not fear there is still plenty of work for you to do. During the day you will be directed by your tutor Leathersmith and London College of Fashion Lecturer Georgie Tym to make: A fully lined 'Turned seam' 'W Base' Medium Leather Tote bag with raw edge straps. There will be one small pocket inside attached to the lining The dimensions of the Tote Bag are 300mm x 320mm x 160mm. It will be the same construction as the bag in the photos - please contact for more info or view online Parking available on the drive with easy access via the M40. Banbury train station is a 30 min walk. Trains run from both London Marylebone and Birmingham to Banbury in 50mins. Also well connected to Reading, Oxford, Leamington Spa to name a few. Maximum class size is 4 What's included in the price? There are no additional costs. All leather, hardware and other materials will be included. There will be a selection of leather and hardware colours for you to choose from. There will be lunch served at midday and tea/ coffee breaks throughout. Cancellation policy Easy - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 2 weeks before the course starts About Georgie at Hands of Tym During training at Cordwainers, London College of Fashion in 2010 I learnt how to design, make and manufacture bags professionally. Following a varied career in Accessories design and development across many roles and international brands I set up Hands of Tym in 2016. The courses I offer are suitable for all, from experienced to total novice. Come along to learn something new, and design and make your own leather bag in a day.

Join us in our Oxfordshire Workshop (UK) for a day of learning and making. Learn directly from Leathersmith and London College of Fashion Lecturer, Georgie Tym, as she guides you through this experience day, making a sturdy hand stitched vegetable tanned leather satchel with a raw edge adjustable cross body strap. The bag is left unlined. Who is this course for? This bag in a day course is ideal for all experience levels, from beginners to confident makers. A perfect introduction into leather work and bag making, you will experience the wide variety of tasks involved in the work. What to expect Have fun learning the basics of leather craft (for accessories), with introduction to techniques including: hand stitching on leather, hand finishing and hand cutting. You will be working with a sturdy vegetable tanned leather. In order to complete your bag in a day we will use some pre-prepared components and the bag will be made from a 'Hands of Tym' pattern. Don’t worry though, there is still plenty of hands-on work for you to enjoy. The Bag The Leather Cross Body Satchel Bag has a sturdy boxy design giving a classic look, this follows the same design as our popular DIY satchel bag. The strap is adjustable and made to your desired length. The bag can be made out of your choice of leather from a wide variety of colours available in the workshop. The bag is unlined. The size is perfect for carrying your everyday essentials. Make it your own with personalised hand stamping. The dimensions of the finished bag are H:190mm x W:245mm x D:90mm and it will be the same construction as the bag in the product photos. What's included in the price? There are NO ADDITIONAL costs. All leather, hardware and other materials will be included. There will be a selection of leather and hardware colours for you to choose from.Lunch and refreshments also provided Cancellation policy Easy - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 2 weeks before the course starts About Georgie at Hands of Tym During training at Cordwainers, London College of Fashion in 2010 I learnt how to design, make and manufacture bags professionally. Following a varied career in Accessories design and development across many roles and international brands I set up Hands of Tym in 2016. The courses I offer are suitable for all, from experienced to total novice. Come along to learn something new, and design and make your own leather bag in a day.

1-day practical leather bag pattern cutting courseJoin us in our Oxfordshire Workshop (UK) for a day of learning and practical skills. Learn directly from Leathersmith and London College of Fashion Lecturer, Georgie Tym as she guides you through designing your own paper patterns from scratch to create 3D shapes for bags and accessories. Who is this course for? This 1-day practical bag pattern cutting course is ideal for all experience levels, from beginners to confident makers. A perfect introduction into some of the pattern cutting skills you’ll need to create and design your own bag patterns. Are you looking to: Start your own bag brand? Design your own bags? Understand the bag making process? Create bags at home to complete your own handmade wardrobe? Satisfy a general interest into the skills and techniques required to make your own bags? If you've answered yes to any of the above, then this is the course for you. What to expect Join Georgie to learn the basics of pattern cutting shapes for bags. This is the course for you if you’re ready to turn those bags you’ve been dreaming up and designing into 3-Dimensional tangible reality. This is the perfect taster day and leads directly onto the 1 week (5 day) pattern cutting course. What's included in the price? The course covers: - Professional methods and best practice - Basic pattern cutting techniques for shapes - Pattern design/ development and sequences - Hands on involvement and demonstrations. There are NO ADDITIONAL costs. Basic materials will be included.Time: The course runs from 10am - 4.30pm. There will be tea and coffee breaks throughout and a half hour break at lunchtime. Lunch will be provided, along with tea, coffee and snacks. Please let us know in the order notes of any dietary requirements.  Cancellation policy Easy - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 2 weeks before the course starts About Georgie at Hands of Tym During training at Cordwainers, London College of Fashion in 2010 I learnt how to design, make and manufacture bags professionally. Following a varied career in Accessories design and development across many roles and international brands I set up Hands of Tym in 2016. The courses I offer are suitable for all, from experienced to total novice. Come along to learn something new, and design and make your own leather bag in a day.

Get 5 weeks of quality sewing me time with Claire at the Stitching Kitchen sewing studio - Monday mornings!