NEW Creative Writing Workshop at Chirpy

We’re delighted to launch our NEW Creative Writing six-week course, Well-Written, starting in September.

Working with local author, Jessica Austin, this is the perfect opportunity to offer our Chirpy customers an opportunity to explore their creativity, whether you’re completely new to writing or returning after time away.

Well-Written offers a supportive space to explore your creativity at your own pace. Blending mindful reflection with practical writing techniques, this six-week course will help you develop a sustainable writing practice while working towards a short story you feel proud of.

What you’ll gain

By the end of the course, you will:

• Have written and refined a complete short story

• Feel more confident expressing yourself through writing

• Develop tools and techniques to support your creativity

• Build a writing practice you can continue beyond the course

• Be part of a warm, supportive creative community

Sessions include guided exercises, discussion, and optional sharing. There is no pressure to share your work. Everything is invitational and supportive, with feedback focused on curiosity rather than critique.

You’ll also receive light between-session prompts to help you keep writing in your own time.

The six-week course runs on Tuesday September 8th / 15th / 22nd / 29th & October 6th & 13th

Sign up before 15th June for our EARLYBIRD offer of £108 for the six-week course

Or why not join us on Tuesday 9th June for a Taster session to introduce you to the course.

Limited tickets are only £5 which include a glass of fizz (plus tea, coffee or soft drink) and light snacks

Book Taster session HERE

.

6 of the best Creative Workshops at Chirpy this Spring

Photo credit : Brandphotosbychrista

Our Chirpy Workshop programme has got off to a busy start for 2026 and shows no sign of slowing down over the next few months.

Our workshops make great gifts for a crafty friend, a brilliant way to spend an evening crafting together or why not treat yourself to learn a new skill for 2026.

Here’s 6 of the best workshops we’ve got coming up this Spring…

1. Jesmonite Coaster Workshop

Thursday 23rd April 7-9pm Book here

In this workshop you'll make 2 trinket trays perfect to use for your jewellery or as coasters. Choose from different shapes you'll make a base colour for your trays and add a mix of coloured shards to give a multi coloured terrazzo finish.

2. Gelli Printing Workshop

Tuesday 28th April 7-9pm Book Here

Join us for a relaxed and inspiring Gelli Print Workshop where you’ll explore the fun and addictive art of gel plate printing.

Using simple tools, vibrant paints, textures, and plants, you’ll learn how to layer colours and patterns to produce unique prints on paper.

3. Mini Abstract Art Workshop

Thursday 30th April 7-9pm Book Here

Join local artist Victoria Hough on a Mini Abstract Workshop. Learn the process of creating abstract paintings using acrylics and layering effects choosing your own colour palette, painting layers and adding gold leaf accents if desired.

You’ll then find compositions within the larger paintings and cut out to create two mini abstracts which will be mounted to take home.

4.Fused Glass Wave Workshop

Thursday 14th May 7-8:30pm book here

Join Claire Myers at Cherry Tree Glass Studio, an experienced glass maker, for a fun and creative event where you can create your very own fused glass wave using shaped glass pieces.

Made by applying  frit and modelled glass pieces to a fused glass wave which on completion will be taken away and fired and returned to Chirpy for collection approximately a week later.

5 . The Art of Lino Cutting & Printing Workshop

Tuesday 19th May 7-9pm book here

Join Emma and Lynn of The North Leeds Print Collective for a hands-on introduction to linocut printing. With over 20 years of combined teaching experience, they will guide you through the process of turning your ideas into striking pieces of art.

6. ‘Blooming Faces’ Painting Workshop

Thursday 11th June 7 - 9:15pm book here

Even if you haven’t touched a pencil since primary school, with step-by-step guidance of professional local artist Joyce Buzeman of BuzemanArt, you will create your very own master piece. Also when you are more experienced, we assure you will go away with new paint tips and paint ideas.

Still not sure which workshop to book?

Then why not buy a Chirpy Workshop Voucher? Valid for 12 months, the perfect gift for someone crafty.

All our workshops are perfect for beginners, with all materials and equipment provided, and you’ll get 10% off in store during the workshop.

6 of the best Creative Workshops this Spring at Chirpy

Photo credit : Brandphotosbychrista

Our Chirpy Workshop programme is live and we’ve got some great creative evenings for you.

Whether you’re looking for a new hobby or to learn a new skill in 2026, wanting to organise an evening with friends or have a Chirpy Workshop Voucher to spend then we’re sure you’ll find something you’d love to do.

Here’s 6 of the best workshops we’ve got coming up this Spring.

1. Spring Flower Bowl Fused Glass

Thursday 26th Feb 7-8:30pm Book here

Ever fancied making an item from fused glass? In this workshop you will design your piece and then apply frit, stringers and modelled glass pieces to make a fused glass spring bowl picture. 

2. Jesmonite Coasters

Thursday 5th March 7-9pm Book Here

In this workshop you'll make 2 trinket trays perfect to use for your jewellery or as coasters. Choose from different shapes you'll make a base colour for your trays and add a mix of coloured shards to give a multi coloured terrazzo finish.

3. Bluebell Forest painting workshop

Thursday 12th March 7-9:15pm book here

Even if you haven’t touched a pencil since primary school, with step-by-step guidance of professional local artist Joyce Buzeman of BuzemanArt, you will create your very own master piece. For those more experienced, we assure you will go away with new paint tips and paint ideas.

We provide all the paint, brushes a 30 x 40cm canvas and other materials that are required. All you need is a to turn up with a good dose of enthusiasm. Why not bring your friends, family or colleagues…

4. Calligraphy

Friday 13th March 7-9pm book here

A relaxing and mindful two hour workshop exploring the art of modern calligraphy. We start with warm up exercises and basic strokes, practice letterforms and then have a go at crafting your name, before moving into writing our own affirmations.

5 . Fused Glass Spring Wreath

Thursday 19th March 7-8:30pm book here

Join Claire Myers at Cherry Tree Glass Studio, an experienced glass maker, to make a Spring themed glass wreath.

Made by applying  frit and modelled glass pieces to a fused glass wreath which on completion will be taken away and fired and returned to Chirpy for collection approximately a week later.

The piece measures 9 cm in diameter and after firing a matching ribbon will be added.

6. Doodlemap workshop

Thursday 26th March 6:30 - 8:30pm book here

Find yourself Doodling in meetings or while on the phone? Always fancied a go at illustrating?

This 2 hour masterclass with Dave Draws will give you the chance to doodle your favourite area and create a unique map and piece of art for you to take home, under the guidance of Dave. All you need is an idea of where you want to doodle.

Still not sure which workshop to book?

Then why not buy a Chirpy Workshop Voucher? Valid for all workshops in 2026, the perfect gift for someone crafty

All our workshops are perfect for beginners, with all materials and equipment provided, and you’ll get 10% off in store during the workshop.

Chirpy Festive Opening Hours

Chirpy will be Open every day right up until about 2pm on Christmas Eve (or until the last customer leaves!)

We can’t thank you enough for all the support we’ve had this year, especially with the run up to Christmas.

We’ll be taking a well deserved break and back open on Friday 2nd January.

Our workshops will restart in February - check out what we’ve got coming up HERE

You can shop online at any time with Chirpy - orders placed from Tuesday 23rd December will be posted on Friday 2nd January Tracked48

5 of the best Creative Workshops coming up at Chirpy in 2026

Photo credit : Brandphotosbychrista

After a busy 2025 with our Chirpy Workshops we’ve already launched our programme for 2026.

Our workshops make great gifts for a crafty friend, a brilliant way to spend an evening crafting together or why not treat yourself to learn a new skill for 2026.

Here’s 5 of the best workshops we’ve got coming up this 2026

1. Spring Flower Bowl Fused Glass

Thursday 26th Feb 7-8:30pm Book here

Ever fancied making an item from fused glass? In this workshop you will design your piece and then apply frit, stringers and modelled glass pieces to make a fused glass spring bowl picture. 

2. Jesmonite Coasters

Thursday 5th March 7-9pm Book Here

In this workshop you'll make 2 trinket trays perfect to use for your jewellery or as coasters. Choose from different shapes you'll make a base colour for your trays and add a mix of coloured shards to give a multi coloured terrazzo finish.

3. Bluebell Forest painting workshop

Thursday 12th March 7-9:15pm book here

Even if you haven’t touched a pencil since primary school, with step-by-step guidance of professional local artist Joyce Buzeman of BuzemanArt, you will create your very own master piece. For those more experienced, we assure you will go away with new paint tips and paint ideas.

We provide all the paint, brushes a 30 x 40cm canvas and other materials that are required. All you need is a to turn up with a good dose of enthusiasm. Why not bring your friends, family or colleagues…

4 . Fused Glass Spring Wreath

Thursday 19th March 7-8:30pm book here

Join Claire Myers at Cherry Tree Glass Studio, an experienced glass maker, to make a Spring themed glass wreath.

Made by applying  frit and modelled glass pieces to a fused glass wreath which on completion will be taken away and fired and returned to Chirpy for collection approximately a week later.

The piece measures 9 cm in diameter and after firing a matching ribbon will be added.

5. Doodlemap workshop

Thursday 26th March 6:30 - 8:30pm book here

Find yourself Doodling in meetings or while on the phone? Always fancied a go at illustrating?

This 2 hour masterclass with Dave Draws will give you the chance to doodle your favourite area and create a unique map and piece of art for you to take home, under the guidance of Dave. All you need is an idea of where you want to doodle.

Still not sure which workshop to book?

Then why not buy a Chirpy Workshop Voucher? Valid for all workshops in 2026, the perfect gift for someone crafty

All our workshops are perfect for beginners, with all materials and equipment provided, and you’ll get 10% off in store during the workshop.

Kids Half Term Workshops

This half term we're bringing you a special mini version of our ever popular Jesmonite Coaster Workshop

In this mini workshop you'll make one coaster / trinket tray using a choice of premade coloured shards and a white jesmonite base.

You'll leave your coaster to dry and should be able to collect it later that day, or pop into Chirpy anytime afterwards to collect it.

This workshop is suitable for age 7+ however anyone under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. If ther accompanying adult would also like to make a coaster then please book an additional ticket.

Jesmonite is an environmentally conscious, eco-friendly and safe lightweight product which is perfect for creating beautiful design.

This workshop will run 3 times on the morning of Tuesday 28th and at 5-6pm on Wednesday 29th & Thursday 30th October

Booking is essential - please arrive on time as this is a short workshop

£10 PP

Tickets available HERE

6 of the best creative workshops coming up at Chirpy this Autumn

Photo credit : Brandphotosbychrista

What’s different about Chirpy?

We’re not just a fabulous gift shop fulfilling all your gifting needs for all occasions but we’ve also got a wonderful workshop space dedicated to bring our customers great creative workshops. All perfect for beginners, with all materials and equipment provided, the workshops offer a chance to enjoy a couple of hours of creative “you time” away from the huddle & bustle of everyday life. Come on your own or bring some friends, we’re a friendly lot!

Here’s 6 of the best workshops we’ve got coming up this Autumn

1. Jesmonite coaster workshop

Thursday 11th Sept 7-9pm Book here

Jesmonite seems to be everywhere unsurprisingly as bits such a fun material to work with. In this workshop you’ll create 2 unique hexagonal trays with a terrazzo design, perfect to using as coasters or trinket trays. As Jesmonite dries quickly you’ll take away your creations on the night

2 . Fused Glass Autumn Wreath

Thursday 18th September 7-8:30pm book here

Join Claire Myers at Cherry Tree Glass Studio, an experienced glass maker, to make a Spring themed glass wreath.

Made by applying  frit (crushed glass) and modelled glass pieces to a fused glass wreath which on completion will be taken away and fired and returned to Chirpy for collection approximately a week later.

The piece measures 9 cm in diameter and after firing a matching ribbon will be added.

3. Mindful Calligraphy

Thursday 25th September 7-9pm book here

A relaxing and mindful two hour workshop exploring the art of modern calligraphy. Suitable for complete beginners.

We start with warm up exercises and basic strokes, practice letterforms and then have a go at crafting your name, before moving into writing our own affirmations. This is an opportunity to tap into your creative flow and take a moment out of our hectic lives to be present and explore something new.

4. Ocean Reef painting workshop

Thursday October 2nd 7-9:15pm book here

Even if you haven’t touched a pencil since primary school, with step-by-step guidance of professional local artist Joyce Buzeman of BuzemanArt, you will create your very own master piece. For those more experienced, we assure you will go away with new paint tips and paint ideas.

We provide all the paint, brushes a 30 x 40cm canvas and other materials that are required. All you need is a to turn up with a good dose of enthusiasm. Why not bring your friends, family or colleagues…

Our aim is to unleash your own painting style and encourage you where needed. It’s your masterpiece and at the end your painting will be unique to you.

5. Fused Glass Highland Cow

Thursday 15th May 7-8:30pm- book here

Ever fancied making an item from fused glass?  Well here is your opportunity from Claire Myers at Cherry Tree Glass Studio, an experienced glass maker.

In this workshop you will design your piece and then apply frit (crushed glass) stringers (glass rods) and modelled glass pieces to make a fused glass Highland Cow picture, perfect as a treat for yourself or a gift for a loved one. No cutting or grinding required!

On completion your item will be taken away and fused plus a wooden frame added.  It will then be returned to Chirpy for collection approximately a week later.

6. Doodlemap workshop

Thursday 23rd October 6:30 - 8:30pm book here

Find yourself Doodling in meetings or while on the phone? Always fancied a go at illustrating?

This 2 hour masterclass with Dave Draws will give you the chance to doodle your favourite area and create a unique map and piece of art for you to take home, under the guidance of Dave. All you need is an idea of where you want to doodle.

5 of the best Father's Day gifts from Chirpy

Photo credit : Brandphotosbychrista

Looking for a different gift this Father’s Day?

We pride ourselves on stocking things that are a little different, and make useful, practical, stylish gifts and Father’s Day gifts are no different.

So here’s 5 of the best gifts we’ve got for Sunday 15th June

1 . A sturdy mug

Which man doesn’t want to start the day with a big up of tea or a large cup of strong coffee? Whether it’s to take to the office or for working from home, a solid colourful mug nis always a must.

We love the bright vibrant colours and the ombre design of these mugs. Why not buy one to start your family set. You could also choose your favourite colour!

Check out the fabulous ombre mug range HERE

2. Yorkshire Dales Walking Guidebook

What could be nicer than heading out for a walk in the country on Father’s Day. There’s so much beautiful scenery on our doorstep waiting to be explored. and this is the perfect book to help you (& him) do so.

We love these walking guidebooks as they offer simple information on distance, difficulty, terrain and even it you’ll find pub at the end!

Pick up this and the North York Moors books HERE

3. HOBO travel candles

Candles are just for girls - we don’t think so!

Whether it’s to relax after a hard day at work, soak in the bath after a long walk, or just to make the room where they keep their trainers smell nice, we’ve got the perfect range for them.

We love these HOBO candles as they are small and portable, and burn perfectly, not tunnelling. Pick pone up HERE

4. Beach Clean Wallet

So a wallet might seem like an obvious present for Father’s Day but this one is a little bit different.

Made from sustainable Portuguese cork and the plastic from the beaches, it’s an eco friendly gift that’s saving the planet.

Holding 3 cards on either side with room for cash in the middle it’s also not too bulky for the modern dad who usually relies just on his tech to pay for things.

Did you know that in Chirpy we even had a cork recycling bin from the manufactures these amazing beach clean products, so why not get dad to drop in with his corks after his Father’s Day celebrations!

Check out the wallet and other sustainable cork products HERE

5. Personalised Jesmonite Letters

Why not make your Father’s Day gift a bit more personal? Spell out his name, initials or a phrase in Jesmonite letters.

We can make the letters in the colour or colours of your choosing and have them ready for you in time for Father's Day on 15th June, just give us week’s notice.

Order your letters HERE

Of course we have your staples in store - some great socks and tasty chocolate swell as a fabulous range of cards. So don’t forget to pop into Chirpy or check out our Father’s Day section online

Make this Father’s Day a Chirpy one!

Taster Jesmonite Workshop this May Half Term

On Thursday 29th May we're bringing you a special taster version of our ever popular Jesmonite Coaster Workshop

In this mini workshop you'll make one coaster / trinket tray using a choice of premade coloured shards and a white jesmonite base.

You'll leave your coaster to dry and should be able to collect it later that day, or pop into Chirpy anytime afterwards to collect it.

This workshop is suitable for age 7+ however anyone under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. If ther accompanying adult would also like to make a coaster then please book an additional ticket.

Jesmonite is an environmentally conscious, eco-friendly and safe lightweight product which is perfect for creating beautiful design.

This workshop will run 3 times on the morning of Thursday 29th May

Booking is essential - please arrive on time as this is a short workshop

£10PP

Tickets for 9:45am session available here

Tickets for 10:45am session available here

Tickets for 11:45am session available here

5 of the best creative workshops coming up at Chirpy this Spring

Photo credit : Brandphotosbychrista

What’s different about Chirpy?

We’re not just a fabulous gift shop fulfilling all your gifting needs for all occasions but we’ve also got a wonderful workshop space dedicated to bring our customers great creative workshops. All perfect for beginners, with all materials and equipment provided, the workshops offer a chance to enjoy a couple of hours of creative “you time” away from the huddle & bustle of everyday life. Come on your own or bring some friends, we’re a friendly lot!

Here’s 5 of the best workshops we’ve got coming up this Spring

1 . Fused Glass Flower & Fruit Wreath

Thursday 24th April 7-8:30pm book here

Join Claire Myers at Cherry Tree Glass Studio, an experienced glass maker, to make a Spring themed glass wreath.

Made b applying  frit (crushed glass) and modelled glass pieces to a fused glass wreath which on completion will be taken away and fired and returned to Chirpy for collection approximately a week later.

The piece measures 9 cm in diameter and after firing a matching ribbon will be added.

2. Jesmonite coaster workshop

Thursday May 1st 7-9pm Book here

Jesmonite seems to be everywhere unsurprisingly as bits such a fun material to work with. In this workshop you’ll create 2 unique hexagonal trays with a terrazzo design, perfect to using as coasters or trinket trays. As Jesmonite dries quickly you’ll take away your creations on the night

3. Bluebell Forest painting workshop

Thursday 8th May 7-9:15pm book here

Even if you haven’t touched a pencil since primary school, with step-by-step guidance of professional local artist Joyce Buzeman of BuzemanArt, you will create your very own master piece. For those more experienced, we assure you will go away with new paint tips and paint ideas.

We provide all the paint, brushes a 30 x 40cm canvas and other materials that are required. All you need is a to turn up with a good dose of enthusiasm. Why not bring your friends, family or colleagues…

Our aim is to unleash your own painting style and encourage you where needed. It’s your masterpiece and at the end your painting will be unique to you.

4. Fused Glass Waterscape

Thursday 15th May 7-8:30pm- book here

Ever fancied making an item from fused glass?  Well here is your opportunity from Claire Myers at Cherry Tree Glass Studio, an experienced glass maker.

In this workshop you will design your piece and then apply frit (crushed glass) stringers (glass rods) and modelled glass pieces to make a fused glass waterscape picture, perfect as a treat for yourself or a gift for a loved one. No cutting or grinding required!

On completion your item will be taken away and fused plus a wooden frame added.  It will then be returned to Chirpy for collection approximately a week later.

5. Pottery Hand building workshop

This workshop is running twice in Spring

Thursday 22nd May 7-9pm Book here

Thursday 25th June 7-9pm Book here

Fancy trying your hand at a bit of pottery? In this workshop you’ll get acquainted with the art of pottery, learn the three methods of handbuilding, design and then create your very own custom pieces. Your pieces will be glazed and fired (white) and ready to pick up at a later date.