HAVE YOURSELF A THRIFTY LITTLE CHRISTMAS AT THE BLUECOAT
“Make do and mend this Christmas,” says Landbaby owner Claire Bates as she launches new workshops teaching people how to create hand-made gifts and decorations.
The independent retailer, situated within Liverpool’s creative hub, the Bluecoat, is holding three workshops in December with an emphasis on “going back to basics”.
Claire said: “We have held a range of workshops this year with people who share a common interest to create. Our participants are always amazed to take something bespoke and meaningful home from materials that would otherwise have been discarded.
“We live in a very ‘throw away’ society now and it’s nice to be able to teach people a fun and creative way to save money– especially in these difficult economic times.”
Landbaby was born out of fine art graduate Claire’s desire to make some money over the summer after finishing university. What started out as a hobby selling her creations at various art markets in Liverpool soon turned into a small business and she is now delighted to be running a thriving shop at the Bluecoat.
In keeping with the thrifty antics at the Bluecoat this Christmas, luxury goods designers, Nook and Willow are now running their Revamp workshops.
From reviving your favourite bag to turning a worn out leather sack into a deluxe vintage must have, their customising evenings are great for those being held back by hefty price tags.
Elsewhere, knit and craft boutique Purlesque are also playing it shrewd with knitting and crochet workshops running in December.
And encouraging further participation, the Purlesque team are also inviting people to two knitting circles from 1-4pm on 28 and 29 November to help them turn the Bluecoat garden into a knitted winter garden.
Also offering shoppers a more unique option for this year’s Christmas purchasing is the LOACA. ART Contemporary Craft Fair which takes place in the Bluecoat courtyard throughout December. Here buyers can choose from a plethora of high quality, locally made products.
And with the Bluecoat’s tasty Christmas menu available from Tuesday 2 December, shoppers can unwind with a festive glass of mulled wine or enjoy a range of tasty dishes including butternut squash and parmesan risotto with deep fried roquette and a locally reared turkey dinner.
For those who would like to compliment their shopping, drinking and dining with some festive fun, the Bluecoat’s third ‘Battle of the Hands Christmas in Space’ event takes place on Saturday 12 December and is sure to be a fun filled occasion.
Taking paper, scissors and stone to unprecedented levels, all the family can join comedy genius Harvey Equinox for an extravaganza of comedy, music, aliens and raw competitive spirit. Only one of the 16 determined souls can be crowned the winner however, while spectators can sit back and enjoy the show with musical entertainment from the Voices of Venus. People keen to participate can book on the Bluecoat’s website or call tickets and information.
The Bluecoat’s creative community of independent retailers will be open every Thursday until 9.00pm throughout December.
Dates and times for the LOACA. ART Contemporary Craft Fair;
Thursday 3 December (4.30pm-8.00pm)
Saturday 5 December (11.00am-5.00pm)
Thursday 10 December (4.30pm-8.00pm)
Saturday 12 December (11.00-5.00pm)
Thursday 17 December (4.30pm-8.00pm)
Saturday 19 December (11.00am-5.00pm)
For information on Purlesque’s knitting and crochet workshops, contact Susan and Jane at purlesque@gmail.com. For lace and felt corsage workshops, contact Claire at landbabyshop@gmail.com. For workshops on customising and reviving your bags and shoes, contact Clare and Nina at studio@nookandwillow.com.
The Christmas menu prices are two courses; £16.50, three courses; £18.75. To book call 0151 702 5324.
Tickets and Information on 0151 702 5324 at the Bluecoat, School Lane, Liverpool, L1 3BX or visit www.thebluecoat.org.uk
