Mindful Arts & Crafts

Led by inspiring Manchester art teachers, Louise Withers of Mindful Moodling, and Jane Telford, this wonderful arts & crafts workshop is all about bringing out your inner artist. A safe space to explore your creativity and let your artistic confidence and imagination go wild!

Watercolours

Throughout October and November, 2026, we will begin exploring watercolour, starting from the very basics to build your knowledge, skills, and understanding. We will progress through the simple stages of watercolour, creating layered tones, mixed textures, and techniques to help you produce abstract or loose washes that result in stunning landscapes, seascapes, and more.

This process will foster confidence and development in your work and practice. It is suitable for everyone—advanced artists may wish to attend to refine their skills, those with some experience will benefit from expanding their abilities, and beginners will receive the guidance and encouragement needed to create simple cards, pictures, and framed artwork.

Do I need any materials?

Yes, you’ll need to bring your own project and materials with you as none are provided. This is simply a safe and friendly space to work on your own projects with other likeminded folk, with experienced teachers on hand.

UFOs (UnFinished Objects)

Got any UnFinished Objects lying around, or an idea for a new one? Why not come and be crafty with us?

No previous experience is required and all are welcome at this friendly session.

How will I benefit from the sessions?

The great news is, not only are crafts fun to do, but taking part in arts & crafts can alleviate the symptoms of anxiety, depression, loneliness and even dementia, according to very credible research. You can read about some of the remarkable mental health benefits of crafts here.

Arts and crafts can develop into a journey of wonderful discovery, allowing everyone to have not just a creative time but a calm, focused and meditative time, a time for quiet reflection and thought, whist creating a visual outcome. The confidence from this creative journey creates ownership and passion but most importantly, creative confidence. A confidence that can help build other skills throughout life.

Who can come?

This session is open to absolutely everyone, from beginners to advanced.

How much do the sessions cost?

The sessions are free, but donations to the Monastery Trust, to help cover costs, is encouraged.

When is the session?

This friendly arts and crafts session takes place each Monday, 10.30am-2.30pm, and/or the first and third Thursdays of every month, 11.30am-2.30pm.

How do I book?

No need to book, just come along to one of our scheduled sessions and introduce yourself!

Enquiries to [email protected]

Directions to the Monastery here.