People with a creative bent are soon to benefit from a mental health boost thanks to the work of two Falmouth businesses.

Inspire Makers and Stitches & Cream, both located on the Old High Street in Falmouth, have announced the launch of their new creative workshop programmes.

Offering classes on a variety of arts and crafts this is a welcome return to normality for these businesses who were unable to hold customer workshops for over a year due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Studies such as the "Great British Creativity Test" commissioned by BBC Arts in 2019, which surveyed 50,000 people about which creative activities they took part in, found that encountering new creative activities – regardless of the level of skill involved – was found to have a particularly positive impact on emotions and wellbeing. Many people have also had the time and space discover hidden talents during lockdowns.

Jane Abraham of Stitches & Cream says: "So many of our customers have turned to knitting, sewing and crochet during the various lockdowns to help them cope, and keep them busy. They have discovered that making something with their own hands can be special, and now that creativity needs to be unleashed, explored, and developed. We can help them by sharing our knowledge and passion for all things fabric and yarn.

Attending a class in person means you have access to expert tuition and can share the experience with other like-minded people.

Numbers are all kept small to ensure you get what you need out of the class, and to provide a safe learning environment.

Workshops are available to book from now until the end of the year and the 2022 calendars are already in development. There are half day tasters, full day sessions and courses. Most are beginner level and require no previous experience so those who book can feel confident in trying a new hobby.

Vicki Glaister of Inspire Makers says: "Autumn is a great time to learn a new skill as you can get yourself set up for the colder winter months with an enjoyable indoor activity or perhaps, dare we say, start making your own Christmas gifts. With everything from bookbinding and printing to glass fusing and jewellery making, there is bound to be something to spark your interest".

To find the right class and start a creative journey, budding artists and makers can visit the Inspire Makers and Stitches & Cream websites for further details and to book.

https://inspiremakers.com/workshops/

https://www.stitchesandcream.co.uk/product-category/workshops/