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.

Taster Jesmonite Workshop in aid of Coppafeel!

On Sunday 2nd March 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 Sunday 2nd March

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

£10PP - all proceeds will go towards COPPAFEEL! the breast cancer charity as part of Jo’s fund-raising for her 100km trek on the Isle of Skye in June

Tickets for 12:30pm session available here

Tickets for 1:30pm session available here

Tickets for 2:30pm session available here

Focus on ... BuzemanArt

This month we’re focusing on Joyce from BuzemanArt. Joyce has been running painting workshops at Chirpy for the last couple of years and we’ve seen some amazing results. From Bears to Highland Cows, Frost Forests to Seaside scenes her workshops have given lots of people the confidence to paint again or even for the first time.

To get to know Joyce a little bit more, here’s a little interview we did with her…

Tell me a little bit about yourself.

Hi my name is Joyce, I am an artist who loves colour. It always amazes me how colour (light) changes the mood , shape and feel of things. I love to explore and experiment with colours. You can see this is my work which I class as representative but not realistic. Besides my own art I love to introduce people to acrylic painting in my workshops and have been working with Chirpy for the 3rd year running.

How did you get into doing what you’re doing?

I started painting in 2003 joining a local art club with a brilliant art teacher who pushed me further all the time. 7 years ago we joined a local art exhibition with lots of professional artists, where I sold a couple of my paintings. It was the first step to becoming a professional artist.  

What does a ‘normal’ day look like?

There is not really a ‘normal’ day. I try to start the day with ‘practicing/playing/exploring’ new ideas. Some of these turn out into workshops. I then might work on new workshops or my own work. This is then followed by promoting my workshops, answering emails, and prepping workshops. And obviously doing my workshops whenever they are planned. 

Biggest achievement to date (personally or business wise)?

My business. After 7 years I am still running and growing. It has taught me to think ahead and to push myself and go outside of my comfort zone. 

Favourite things you’ve designed  / made?

My Mum's portrait in lockdown - its was a very emotional piece

Best thing about running your own business?

The freedom to work they way I want and the ability to plan that around my family needs (most of the time) 

Advice to someone looking to turn their hobby / talent into a business?

Now painting is my business, the pressure is on all the time, which I never had when it was a hobby - I now need another hobby for relaxation.

Is there a craft you’ve not tried but would love to?

I love to explore fabric printing a bit further

What do you love best about running workshops?

I have the best ‘job’. Often people attend my workshops being very nervous, sometimes very stressed, some don’t think they are very good, lacking self belief.. I love their faces at the end of the session; relaxed, full of pride, achievement and confidence, seeing what they have created in such a short time

Why should people shop local and support their local indie businesses?

We are passionate about our product, our business and our customers. That's why we go above and beyond to get it right. You won’t find that at a chain or high street company. People attending my workshops are supporting 2 businesses. Cooperate with other small businesses, we bring the best of both worlds together. Every venue has its own atmosphere and product to the package. We ensure you have a great time and go home with a product that you will be proud to show to your friends and family.

You can join Joyce on her next workshop on Thursday 8th May to paint your very own Bluebell Wood - click HERE to find out more and book

Focus on ... Sophie Eloise Calligraphy

This month we’re focusing on Sophie from Sophie Eloise Calligraphy. Sophie will be running her Mindful Calligraphy workshop in Chirpy on 13th March.

To get to know Sophie a little bit more, here’s a little interview we did with her…

Tell me a little bit about yourself.

I’m Sophie, mum to a toddler and a whippet. I am a calligraphy artist, creating wedding signage and teaching workshops and also dabble in watercolour. I love trying new creative things but calligraphy has been consistent for me - I love the mindful nature and creating beautiful words!

How did you get into doing what you’re doing?

I attended a calligraphy workshop myself in 2017 and spent a lot of time practicing and making cards for family and friends. I then set up my instagram page in 2021 after hand painting signage and stationery for my own wedding. I wasn’t loving my day job and this provided me a lovely creative outlet. The following year I handcrafted wedding signage for 8 friends & family alongside my full time job. It was a huge learning curve but I got so much satisfaction from the end results. I started teaching workshops after requests and love sharing the practice!

Favourite things you’ve designed  / made?

I love my bespoke handpainted birth moon artwork. These combine my loves of calligraphy, watercolour and all things celestial! Sometimes it feels like the whole world is going digital, but nothing beats real, tangible pen and paper for me.

 Advice to someone looking to turn their hobby / talent into a business?

Just go for it! It’s cliche but stop waiting for the perfect time and just get started. I remember such a tingle when I first set up my instagram and business email address! Then my Etsy shop and everything else flowed from there. It’s brave taking the leap but so worth it and I love looking back at my journey to see how things have evolved and grown.

 Is there a craft you’ve not tried but would love to?

I’d love to try making my own jewellery!

What do you love best about running workshops?

Supporting people to relax and enjoy trying something new, whilst simultaneously slowing down and being really mindful about what they’re doing. We live in such a fast paced world, I like to see my workshops as two hours of calm, presence and screen free time!

Why should people shop local and support their local indie businesses?

 I love how supporting local businesses is championing someone else’s dream, and keeping local areas interesting and unique! I made a real effort to shop local for Christmas this year - every time you spend is a vote for the kind of world you want to live in ✨🌎

You can join Sophie on her next Calligraphy workshop on Thursday 13th March - click HERE to find out more and book

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 Thursday 31st October

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

£5 PP + BF

Tickets available here

Introducing our MINI MAKE series of Workshops for the Autumn

Introducing MINI MAKES - a series of shorter workshops at Chirpy this Autumn.

We know that people are feeling a little bit short of time & money so these workshops are aimed at letting your stay creative without breaking the bank!

Whether it’s a mini version of our ever popular Jesmonite Coaster workshop, or the NEW Woven Plant Pot Cover workshop, these 1 & 1/2 hour workshops are perfect to help you keep crafting and learning new skills.

All held upstairs in our great workshop space, they still promise to be the same relaxed, friendly and enjoyable workshops as before.

You’ll also still benefit for 10% off in Chirpy on the night of the workshop, perfect if you need to do a bit of birthday or Christmas shopping (or a treat for yourself). What’s more for each workshop you’ll still get a virtual stamp on your Chirpy Workshop Loyalty card - collect 8 stamps to get your 9th workshop for FREE!

So why not try on (or more) of our MINI MAKE workshops this Autumn, we know you won’t be disappointed!

Mini Embroidery Hoop Woven Hanging

Woven Plant Pot Cover

Wooden Stitched Bookmark

Jesmonite Coaster Workshop - 2 dates

Thursday 6th October / Thursday 10th November

Rainbow Weaving for Kids

Christmas Collage Night

Needle Felted Decorations