About

Discover Island CraftWorks – creative workshops on the Isle of Wight

Island CraftWorks offers warm, hands-on creative experiences for visitors of all ages, based in the beautiful coastal town of Ryde. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned crafter, our relaxed and friendly workshops are designed to help you unwind, get creative, and leave with something handmade and truly special.

We run small, welcoming sessions that celebrate creativity and sustainability, using natural, recycled, and beachcombed materials. Ideal for individuals, couples, families, and friends. Island CraftWorks is a brilliant rainy-day activity - or the perfect break from the beach to create your own Isle of Wight souvenir.

Winter and Christmas Workshops

Get Creative This Winter at Island Craftworks

When the Isle of Wight air turns crisp and twinkling lights start to appear, there’s no better time to get cosy, creative, and festive! At Island CraftWorks, the winter months are all about slowing down, connecting, and discovering the joy of making something by hand.

Whether you’re dreaming of a handmade Christmas or looking for a fun way to brighten up a rainy day, Island Craftworks has a wonderfully wintery line-up of workshops to get those creative sparks flying.

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Christmas Workshops to Spark Your Festive Spirit

If you love the smell of pine and the sparkle of fairy lights, our Christmas Wreath Workshops are a must this season. You can craft a classic festive wreath using natural foliage, ribbons, and seasonal decorations — or try something a little more coastal with seashells and pinecones for a unique Island twist. For a longer-lasting option, you can also choose faux foliage, so your winter display stays beautiful year after year.

NEW for 2025!
Add a touch of handcrafted magic to your festive décor with our Christmas Macramé Gonks and our brand-new Reindeers Workshops! Create your own adorable Nordic-style gonks or charming reindeer decorations using soft cords, beads, and festive trimmings — perfect for gifts, mantelpiece displays, or to hang on your Christmas tree.

Each workshop is hands-on and relaxed, giving you all the guidance and materials you need to create something truly personal — the perfect way to welcome guests or add a special touch to your home this Christmas.

Beginners and all ages welcome (children under 8 with parental supervision).

Join a weekly Saturday or Monday workshop, or book your own private session — available weekdays, Monday evenings, and weekends.

Winter Crafting to Keep You Inspired

The fun doesn’t stop when the Christmas lights come down! Keep those creative vibes flowing through the colder months with our winter workshops.

Try your hand at:

• Macramé Plant Holders — add a touch of boho charm to your home
• Tree of Life Wall Art — a meaningful craft to centre your space
• Shambala Beaded Bracelets — mindful, meditative, and full of colour
• Dreamcatchers — weave something beautiful to bring calm to your home
• Seaglass Sun-Catchers — bring the island’s coastal beauty indoors
• January Vision Boards — start the new year with clarity, intention, and creativity

Each workshop is led by the friendly and welcoming Gabby, with all materials provided. Enjoy tea, coffee, and homemade cake while you create — just show up, relax, and get crafty!

Year-round crafting for all ages

During school holidays and peak seasons, we add extra family-friendly workshops to the schedule, offering relaxed, hands-on activities that children and visiting families love. We are also happy to travel across the Island for private bookings of 6 or more participants.

Workshops are available weekdays, evenings, and weekends - just get in touch with your preferred date and time, and we’ll get you booked in. No experience is needed, and every session includes tea, coffee, squash, and a slice of homemade cake to enjoy while you create. (Gluten and dairy free alternatives are happily provided as well). 

Although not required, you’re very welcome to bring along your own beach finds to add a personal touch to your craft.

Browse our current calendar and book online at www.islandcraftworks.co.uk.

Craft experiences on offer

• Seashell and driftwood wreaths and windchimes.
• Macramé plant hangers, wall hangings and bunting.
• Mini-macrame shambala charm bracelets.
• Paper flower garlands and hair fascinators (made from recycled books).
• Dreamcatchers.
• Seasonal door decorations.

All materials are included, and workshops can be adapted for all ages and abilities. These sessions are especially popular with holidaymakers, birthdays, and creative get-togethers.

Workshop prices

Prices range from £18 to £35 per person, depending on the activity and session length.

For up-to-date prices, what’s included, and online booking, please visit: www.islandcraftworks.co.uk.

Special offer – save £20 on group bookings

Book 4 spaces for just £80 (normally £100) for our popular Seashell Wreath and Windchime Workshop – perfect for families or friends visiting together. Just mention this offer when booking.

Dog-friendly creativity

Yes, Island CraftWorks is dog-friendly! Well-behaved dogs are welcome to join your workshop. Water bowls and treats are provided, and we’re a short walk from Ryde seafront - perfect for a post-craft stroll.

Meet the maker

Island CraftWorks is led by Gabby Ryde, a local maker with years of experience in community arts. Gabby is passionate about making creativity accessible, sustainable, and joyful for everyone.

Follow us for updates and inspiration:

• Instagram: @island_craftworks_iow
• Facebook: @Gabby_Ryde

Contact and booking

Located on the top of Ryde’s High Street (130 High Street, PO33 2RJ). We are the third shop on the right, before the traffic light lights at St. John’s Road. You won’t be able to miss us, as we always have lights, macrame, seashells and flowers in the window!

Curious? Although we are open only by appointment - let us know when you are in Ryde for chat, and I’ll be sure to put the kettle on! 

Booking is easy via the website, or get in touch to discuss birthdays, group events, or bespoke workshops.

We’d love to welcome you for a creative experience on the Isle of Wight!