Shrugging off mass market consumerism for a more hands-on approach to things, we’re seeing a surge of small do-it-yourself workshops being hosted in people’s homes. 160 Workshops is an Ottowa-based collective hosted by friends and roommates Darryl and Beth. The two open up their home every so often for a day of DIY workshops put on by local crafters, artists, and chefs, and anyone is welcome to participate. Costs are covered by a $5 suggested donation and the day is capped off with a silent auction and tea party.
In New York, PSFK friend Shayna Kulik has started a similar type of event, which usually draws about 10-15 random people. She explains the recent Halloween-themed get-together, where people were encouraged to bring their fabric, glitter, ideas and inspiration – all the raw materials necessary to create their costumes:
A seamstress friend of mine offered up her skills to the group for Halloween – its a very give and take atmosphere thats unpredictable and inspirational. Everyone chips in for a large pizza and brings a bottle of wine and leaves having done something different with a likeminded room of girls.
The trend, which essentially boils down to a small group of people gathering in a home to barter in creativity and friendship, reminds us of last year’s explosion of underground dinner parties and clothing swaps.
Facebook
Twitter
Digg
Reddit
StumbleUpon
I hold a similar monthly event at my household – Procraftination Night. It’s all about procrastinating all the work you should be doing and instead, crafting.
December 10th, 2007 at 4:24 pm
Thanks for mentioning our 160 workshops. Over 30 people showed up in December for our “How-to Holiday” theme — and that was in the middle of the biggest blizzard we have had 40 years. Some people had to cross-country ski to our house.
We’ll be doing another one in February, with a communications and digital media theme. Stay tuned!
Beth
(oh and fyi, it’s spelled O-t-t-a-w-a)
;)
January 5th, 2008 at 8:53 am