Tell me about it

At Vanilla Ink The Smiddy, we believe in the transformative power of creation and the shared inspiration it brings. Through our Create and Inspire for All programme, we are dedicated to fostering social engagement and inclusivity in the North East of Scotland. This initiative is a part of our ongoing mission to create accessible opportunities for everyone, regardless of background or experience.

Our Community Interest Company is rooted in social equality, and we strive to improve lives through creative making. We offer free workshops that encourage participants to unlock their creative potential, explore new skills, and connect with others. Whether you are new to making or a seasoned artist, our space is open to all, where everyone can come together to learn, create, and be inspired.

A cornerstone of this programme is the generosity of the many voluntary-led workshops that make it all possible. Volunteers, from experienced creators to passionate community members, share their time, skills, and expertise, providing a warm and welcoming environment for all. Their dedication helps ensure that everyone, regardless of financial situation or experience, has access to the tools and support needed to create.

Through Create and Inspire for All, we aim to strengthen community bonds and empower individuals by providing the tools and support they need to bring their ideas to life. Join us in shaping a future where creativity is a universal language, inspiring positive change and fostering a sense of belonging.

Can I do this class?

Of course you can! This is a classic entry-level Taster Experience, so it doesn’t matter if you’ve never wielded yarn before.

What happens?

Channel Your Heritage Spirit Animal: Early Medieval Embroidery Course

Cat person? Dog person? Wyvern person? Dragon person? Lion person?

Join us for a one-day embroidery workshop where you’ll bring your heritage spirit animal to life, drawing inspiration from the animals, fruits, and flowers featured in the embroidered linen hangings and decorations of the early medieval period. These designs once adorned the households of Banff and Macduff, from the construction of Banff Castle to protect against Viking invasions, up to the end of the fifteenth century.

Whether you identify with a lion, wyvern, or another animal, this workshop offers the opportunity to create an embroidered piece inspired by the animals of the time. You are welcome to bring along pictures that inspire you, or choose a design from our research library. Our volunteers will help you transfer your design onto linen, and then you’ll start stitching your unique piece.

The finished patch can be used as the centrepiece of a cushion, part of a bag or garment, or framed as a lovely piece of art. All materials, including embroidery frames, linen cloth, threads, needles, and pens, are provided.

Do I need to bring anything?

You don’t need to bring anything with you as we will provide all the equipment and materials needed. Everyone will have their own space with access to all the tools required to do the session.

Please wear long hair tied up [or bring something to do so], don’t wear open-toed shoes and keep loose-fitting clothing to a minimum.

If you need glasses to see things close up, please bring them with you.

The details

Six-hour class

10am - 4pm [we will pause for lunch around 1pm]

Sunday 20th April

USE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING DISCOUNT CODES TO ADJUST WHAT YOU PAY:

To pay £50 – no discount code required

To pay £45 – ALL£45

To pay £40 – ALL£40

To pay £35 – ALL£35

To pay £30 – ALL£30

To pay £25 – ALL£25

To pay £20 – ALL£20

To pay £15 – ALL£15

To pay £10 – ALL£10

To pay £5 – ALL£5

To pay £0 – ALL£0

Make sure to select “Store Pickup” for your Delivery Option. Then in the next section simply enter the discount code from the list above as required.

We are a Community Interest Company who are beyond profit. When you buy a class from The Smiddy, money is invested in our social enterprise programmes. We aim to create a variety of sessions aimed at the most vulnerable, disadvantaged or deserving in society to give a sense of purpose and help them feel connected to those within their community. Our goal is to promote social engagement and support cultural enhancement. We believe everyone should get the opportunity to experience jewellery making.

All prices are inclusive of VAT
Students must be 16+ years
Good eyesight and hand dexterity is essential
Please read our full Ts & Cs and Cancellation Policies before booking

Vanilla Ink The Smiddy
Old Market Place
Banff
AB45 1GE