Creative Activities at Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust

Have a go at cyanotype, a sun-printing technique that turns everyday objects into lasting blueprint images.

Sunday 27 September 10:30am and 1pm The Assembly Rooms This workshop allows you to try your hand at dying fabrics using plants and flowers, exploring both period and modern techniques. You will create a range of swatches and a guide on how to repeat these processes once you get home, with advice suited to your local plants and flowers.  You don't need to bring anything, aside from an apron, but you're welcome to bring samples of your own fabrics to dye if you wish.

Two day workshop with Hand & Lock Regency art of contemporary Regency-inspired embroidery Monday 24th Tuesday 25th August 2026 10am to 4pm each day Total Course Price £250, deposit £50 (You will be in invoiced for the remaining £200) Join us for an immersive two-day course exploring the art of contemporary Regency-inspired embroidery, where silk threads meet delicate beadwork in the creation of contemporary dahlia flowers. Working closely with our expert tutors, you will begin by learning the foundations of silk thread embroidery. Through guided demonstrations, you will explore how to handle fine silks, control tension, and build smooth, directional stitches that give petals their natural movement and light. You will be shown how subtle changes in colour and stitch length can create depth, allowing your dahlia to bloom with softness and realism.   As your petals begin to take form, you will be introduced to techniques for creating relief and texture within your design. Using layered stitching and gentle padding methods, you will build dimension into the flower’s centre and surrounding leaves. You will then learn how to incorporate pearl beads with precision, understanding how placement, scale and density can transform your silk embroidery into a couture-inspired surface. Throughout the two days, you will create your own contemporary dahlia that combines refined silk thread work with delicate pearl embellishment.  By the end of the course, you will have developed confidence in silk work, textural layering and bead application, equipping you with the technical knowledge and creative assurance to incorporate these techniques into your own embroidery practice.  The workshop will take place within the historic rooms of the Buxton Crescent Hotel, Refreshments will be provided during the workshops.  Lunches can be purchased from the hotel bar and restaurant during the workshops (more information will be sent out to participants). By taking part in the Hand & Lock workshops, you are supporting the charitable activities of the Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust.

Friday 25 September 10:30am - 12:30pm The Assembly Rooms Join Jane Walton of Hatsperiod to prepare for the ball with a creative workshop where you'll make your own unique Regency-inspired feather ball headdress. All materials are included, with a beautiful selection of ostrich feathers, plus your choice of a hair clip, comb or Alice band, along with silk, ribbons and jewelled embellishments. During the workshop, you'll learn traditional feather-working techniques, including how to join feathers together, as well as millinery methods and decorative ribbon work to complete your design. If you'd like to use longer premium ostrich feathers, these will be available to purchase as an optional upgrade on the day for a small additional charge.

Saturday 26th September 10am - 12.30pm The Crescent If you’re seeking a peaceful, creative escape - something worthy of a Jane Austen morning - join Calligraphy in the Crescent with Happy Lettering by H. Whether you’re entirely new to calligraphy or have dabbled before, these workshops offer a charming opportunity to slow down, take pen in hand, and discover the timeless art of beautiful lettering. What to expect: Learn essential techniques, strokes, and letterforms. Enjoy hands-on practice with personalised guidance. Relax and develop your skills alongside a supportive community of like-minded creatives. The Workshop Cost includes everything you need for the session, plus a personalised calligraphy kit to take home, and refreshments to enjoy. Happy Lettering By H has been spreading joy through calligraphy for over four years. Specialising in pointed pen calligraphy, I create heartfelt lettered art that blends elegance with creativity. Alongside custom pieces, Happy Lettering By H runs popular workshops, inviting others to slow down, get creative, and fall in love with the art of lettering.

Two day workshop with Hand & Lock Regency Goldwork for Fashion Embroidery Monday 24th Tuesday 25th August 2026 10am to 4pm  Total Course Price £250, deposit £50 (You will be in invoiced for the remaining £200) Join us for a special two-day course exploring the art of Regency goldwork embroidery for couture fashion. Working with our expert tutors you will begin by learning the fundamentals of padding and how to build up different areas of relief within your design. You will see how padded foundations create depth and how carefully placed layers can transform a flat motif into a sculptural embroidered surface. Once you have built your foundations you will be introduced to the specialist metals used in goldwork. You will learn the characteristics of each thread and wire so that you understand exactly how and when to use them. From there you will be taught the highest levels of application with techniques including couching, cutwork and decorative filling. Over the two days you will create a floral sample inspired by couture fashion embroidery. By the end of the course you will have a strong foundation in padding, metal thread work and finishing techniques giving you the knowledge and confidence to begin using goldwork in your own creative practice. The workshop will take place within the historic rooms of the Buxton Crescent Hotel, Refreshments will be provided during the workshops.  Lunches can be purchased from the hotel bar and restaurant during the workshops (more information will be sent out to participants). By taking part in the Hand & Lock workshops, you are supporting the charitable activities of the Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust.

Attending the Crafternoon costs just £3, which help to cover the cost of materials. You can also support the trust by making a purchase from our Pump Room Cafe. From 1-3pm in the Pump Room in Buxton.    Inclusions What's Included 🧰 Equipment - All materials will be provided.

Introduction to Slow Stitching  is a relaxed, beginner-friendly workshop designed for anyone who wants to explore the calming, mindful practice of slow stitching. No experience is necessary—if you can do a running stitch, you're all set! This gentle introduction will guide you through the process of creating a simple piece of stitched art. There are no rules, no pressure, and no patterns to follow—just the joy of stitching at your own pace. All materials will be provided, but if you have a favourite needle, feel free to bring it along. Spaces are limited, so you’ll need to  book your place in advance . There will be a small charge of £5 for each session to cover the cost of materials, and we also ask that you support the Pump Room by purchasing a drink whilst you're there. So, come along and enjoy a relaxing and creative session where stitching allows you to slow down and unwind.