Fire Starters & Creative Sparks
A Day of Inspiration in London
Yesterday I had the absolute joy of spending the day in London at the Fire Starter Camp run by The Design Trust – a workshop for creative teachers who are passionate about sharing their craft and knowledge. It was a rare and special chance to come together in a beautiful space with around 80 creatives from all over the UK, all of us teaching art, craft, design, or other creative skills in our own ways – from workshops in village halls to online retreats and professional mentoring.
A Creative Gathering
Throughout the highly interactive day, we shared experiences and insights about what it really means to teach creative workshops – the joys, the challenges, and the deep sense of purpose that comes with helping others find their voice through making. Some of the deceptively simple questions we explored deeply really stayed with me:
- What do you teach?
- How do you teach?
- Who do you teach?
- Why do you teach?
It was incredibly affirming to hear how many others share the same belief I do: that teaching isn’t just about passing on skills – it’s about building confidence and self-esteem, making human connections, encouraging curiosity, and helping people reconnect with their creativity.
Teaching as a Creative Act
In the evening, I stayed on for the launch of Patricia van den Akker’s new book Teaching Creative Workshops. Patricia was in conversation with Rauni Hinson and Ekta Kaul (photo above), two remarkable creatives and teachers. The discussion explored the deep value of what we offer as teachers, the drive to pass on skills and, in many cases, keep them alive, and the need to recognise the true worth of creative arts in society.
It reminded me that teaching is also a creative practice. The way we shape a class, guide a group, and create room for exploration is an act of design in itself – and it deserves just as much care and nourishment as any other creative project.
Why I Teach
Coming home, I’ve felt even more grounded in why I do what I do. Whether it’s guiding someone through their first cast-on or encouraging a more experienced maker to try something new, my workshops and lessons are always about more than the finished piece. They’re about connection, confidence, and joy.
Here’s what a few lovely participants have said recently:
“Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge and experience of knitting, and making it really accessible for beginners. You are such a kind, reassuring and helpful teacher. I learned so much from the workshop and now feel much more confident and excited to start my knitting journey."
"I just wanted to say a massive thank you so much for your patience, lovely way of teaching and encouragement.”
“I really enjoyed the class and your help and it was lovely not being made to feel silly.”
Fancy joining a workshop?
If you’ve been thinking about joining one of our classes, I’d love to welcome you along. Whether you're brushing up your skills or trying something brand new, our workshops are relaxed, friendly, and full of encouragement.
✨ Browse upcoming workshops
Get in touch if you’d like to chat, email info@allabouttheyarn.co.uk
And if you’re not local, keep an eye out – I’m planning more online workshops and creative experiences over the coming months.
A Closing Thought
Being surrounded by so many generous, thoughtful creatives reminded me how important community is in the creative process. Teaching – and learning – is something we do together. And I’m so excited to keep shaping that space, one workshop at a time.
