HANDMADE is a contemporary multi-stream crafting event held around Wellington city for people who want to learn the skills and crafts of previous generations but in a modern context and using modern technology, style and flair…
A global recession, 18 months of planning, and a change of date – HANDMADE is now confirmed for Wellington , New Zealand, Queen’s Birthday 2011
HANDMADE is a contemporary multi-stream event for people who want to learn the skills and crafts of previous generations but in a modern context and using modern technology, style and flair.
“The concept for HANDMADE grew from a realisation that society is changing,” says HANDMADE creator and owner Melanie Walker .
“We are moving away from what could be described as a period of excess and are looking for more sustainable ways of living. In many respects we are re-awakening our interest in the techniques and skills that our parents and their parents used everyday but with a modern twist,” says Melanie.
“HANDMADE is a celebration of this and offers attendees the chance to learn new skills – or refresh old ones – from experts who will teach hands on classes in everything from sewing, cooking, knitting, quilting and so on.
“But importantly it will do this in a modern context using the latest technology and materials and contemporary design approaches.”
Eight streams are proposed for HANDMADE covering everything from gardening in the big city through to sewing, quilting, knitting and using old garments to make gifts (see below for stream outline).
“There will be tours, seminars and demonstrations from experts as well,” says Melanie.
“The idea is to create an event environment that allows everyone of all skills and ages to be able to participate, listen and learn,” she says.
A call for classes has just been released where the New Zealand craft community is being asked to put themselves forward as potential teachers for the event.
“The craft community has been very patient with us as we have had to change the date of HANDMADE due to the global recession – but we are hopeful that the support is still there for what is a truly unique event,” says Melanie.
HANDMADE will be held in Wellington 4 – 6 June 2011 at venues around Wellington including Te Papa.
Streams
remade – The new art of ‘up-cycling’ using old garments and other items, taking them apart and creating something new. See what old treasures can look like in a new light.
taste – From garden to table, these workshops will include edible gardens, preserving, cheesemaking and more – tips for growing herbs and other produce, whether from an apartment rooftop or vegetable patch.
knit one – Knit one, crochet one, or felt one – these workshops are all about wool.
homework – Design projects for around the home, DIY and furniture restoration.
quilt – Quilting classes from beginner to advanced.
gift it – An array of workshops within this one stream designed to inspire attendees to make beautiful gifts for friends and family — meaningful, creative and beautifully crafted treasures. Create gifts in time for Christmas, without the stress and give meaningful, creative and beautifully crafted treasures.
stitch- Basic to advanced sewing techniques to help create simple, unique craft projects. Both hand stitching and machine sewing techniques to be taught.
free range – From pottery to jewellery making, weaving and everything in between, the free range stream will contain something for everyone.
www.handmade2011.co.nz
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