The Leitrim Design House presents creative workshops supported by the Leitrim Local Community Development Committee under the 2023-2027 LEADER Programme.
Make you own statement earrings with Shock of Grey
Shock of Grey will show participants the process where they will work with wood, brass, and pure colour to create laser-cut statement earrings. All necessary tools and tips will be provided, and each participant will go home with a unique pair of earrings. The team will prepare and paint the FSC Certified wood (in the chosen colour) using a selection of low-emission paint, and assemble it with brass components to create each individual’s very own pair of earrings. Date: Friday 2 May, 11am – 1pm.
Fused Zero Waste Plastic Workshop with Shock of Grey
From scrap plastic bags, participants will create wallets from templates and pieces of art. This process can be adapted to make wall art, wallets, or homewares. This workshop is highly popular and produces a 100% zero-waste product. The skills have been further developed, allowing for the creation of tote bags and plant containers.
Each product takes approximately two hours to create, and the workshop can accommodate a maximum of 12 participants per session. The workshop is accessible, and all materials will be supplied. Participants will create panels of fused material patterns, which can later be transformed into wallets, wall art, or plant pot container. Date: Friday 2 May, 2.30pm – 4.30pm.
Laser Cutting and Engraving Workshop with Stuart Lawn
Laser engraving and cutting can create beautiful art and craft products. In this one-day workshop, participants will learn how material choices and techniques can produce different effects and aesthetic looks. The process will include a demonstration of free software that can be used to create graphics and images, as well as how these can be refined to suit the laser engraving process. A variety of materials will be used for laser engraving, and participants will learn how the material itself can affect the finished product.
In addition to the software, the different types of laser engraving and cutting machines will be explained, with the CO2 laser cutter being used to make sample projects. All participants will have the opportunity to cut or engrave an image or design of their own onto wood or acrylic to take home. No prior experience with laser engraving or design software is required, and all materials will be provided. Participants are encouraged to bring their own laptops, though a limited number of laptops will be available for use. Date: Thursday 8 May, 11am – 4pm.
3D Printing Workshop with Stuart Lawn
3D printing has many creative and practical uses, and both the technology and materials have advanced rapidly in the last five years. The price of 3D printers has also decreased dramatically, making this technology increasingly affordable to all. In this one-day workshop, participants will experience a mix of presentations and live demonstrations, allowing them to see and use a 3D printer and the materials available for use.
The workshop will cover the steps to create 3D models using free and open-source software, and participants will receive a small 3D printed model to take home. No prior experience with 3D printing or design software is required, and all materials will be provided. Participants are encouraged to bring their own laptops, though a limited number of laptops will be available for use. Date: Thursday 22 May, 11am – 4pm.
