Art by Kiki

I’ve always loved being creative and making things with my hands. For me, art and crafting have always been a way to switch off from everyday life and get completely absorbed in the moment.Over time, that love of creating grew into Art by Kiki, where I could combine my passion for crafting with my love of bringing people together. I particularly love crafts such as needle felting because you can start with a simple idea and slowly turn a handful of wool into something completely unique.I’ve been lucky enough to sell many of my handmade pieces, including pieces to celebrities, which has been an incredible achievement for me. I’ve also had my work featured in major magazines, including being selected by magazine editors as one of their ‘gift choices’ — something that was particularly special and a huge confidence boost for me as a maker. I started after attending a 2-hour workshop too!Why do I love teaching? I love seeing someone’s face when they realize, “I actually made that!”You don’t need to consider yourself artistic or have any previous experience to enjoy my workshops. I aim to make them relaxed, friendly, and completely beginner-friendly. There’s no pressure to be perfect — it’s about having fun, learning something new, and enjoying the process.I especially love watching people arrive thinking they aren’t creative and leave feeling proud of what they’ve made.For me, the social side is just as important as the craft itself. My workshops are about meeting people, having a chat, laughing, learning, and taking some time for yourself.One of my favorite things about crafting is that no two pieces ever turn out exactly the same. Even when everyone follows the same instructions, each person’s personality somehow comes through in what they create.That’s something I really encourage in my workshops. I don’t want everyone to leave with an identical piece — I want them to put their own little personality into it.I also love creating seasonal workshops, which means there’s always something new and exciting to make throughout the year.Art by Kiki is a growing creative business, and I’m passionate about building a welcoming community around my workshops.I’m proud of the workshops I’ve created so far and of the lovely feedback and connections I’ve built with the people who have attended them. I’m continuing to develop new classes and creative and friendly experiences, so there’s always something different for people to try.My workshops are based on my practical crafting experience, creativity, and passion for teaching. I don’t currently claim formal qualifications or accreditations in needle felting, so I prefer to be honest about that rather than dress it up.Have you taught at established colleges or schools?My workshops are independently run through Art by Kiki, rather than through a college or school.Have you been featured in magazines or the press, or received any relevant awards?Art by Kiki is an independent creative business that I’m continuing to grow, and I’m always looking for opportunities to introduce more people to the joy of crafting, for adults and ages 13+ in a social setting with a lot fewer limits!