Looking for something creative to do in Dorset this November? From pottery throwing in Christchurch and glass fusing in Wimborne to needle felting, Japanese ink painting and festive willow decorations, these six workshops offer the chance to learn a new skill and make something to keep. Discover November 2026 dates, prices, locations and booking information for a selection of hands-on creative experiences across Dorset.
20th October 2026
An afternoon spent making something has a particular kind of staying power. Long after the day out, there is the pot on the shelf, the little wool animal on a desk or the decoration unpacked each Christmas.
These six Dorset workshops have November 2026 sessions listed, ranging from a private pottery class for two to a full day learning upholstery. Here is what you will make, what it costs and when your creation comes home. Booking links are provided at the end.
For a creative day out for two
A wheel each, a lump of clay and a private lesson: Moon Studio’s throwing workshop is a lovely choice for a couple or two friends. Imogen Charleston demonstrates preparing and centring clay before guiding you through shaping your own pots.
You can make up to three pots each, choosing your best one for glazing and firing. Tools, clay, glazing and two firings are included.
November dates: Thursdays and Fridays from 5-27 November, available by request, with flexible times.
Duration and price: Two hours; the private workshop for two is listed at £240.
Your finished piece: One glazed pot each, ready for collection around six to eight weeks later. Delivery can be arranged for an additional charge.
For colourful glass art in a morning
Linda Rowe’s autumn glass-fusing session offers an approachable introduction to a craft that produces wonderfully decorative results. You begin with a small sun catcher, following Linda’s demonstration, before developing your own designs.
The session involves no glass cutting and welcomes beginners as well as returning participants. You will create two to three designs, including a picture or hanging sun catcher, with materials and kiln firing included.
Date: Saturday 7 November, 10am-noon.
Duration and price: Two hours; £45 per person.
Your finished pieces: Collection ten days after the workshop; postage costs extra.
For an animal with its own personality
At her studio in Redlands Yard, Michelle Hickman helps guests turn wool into characterful animal sculptures. You choose the animal and make its wire armature before building up the wool around it, creating a model approximately seven inches tall.
This is a full day with time to become absorbed in the process. Beginners are welcome, and materials, lunch and refreshments are included.
Date: Saturday 7 November, 10am-4.30pm.
Duration and price: Six and a half hours; £75 per person.
Your finished piece: Your needle-felted animal goes home with you that day. The studio is upstairs, reached by external stairs.
For a painting shaped by water and landscape
Cathy Morris’s Sumi-e workshop explores the expressive possibilities of Japanese ink painting. The day begins with brush techniques and ways of creating texture, using water and landscape as the theme.
You will make experimental studies before developing your ideas into a more finished painting. With a maximum of ten participants, this is a good choice for someone who wants a day devoted to exploring a different way of painting.
Date: Friday 6 November, 10am-4pm.
Duration and price: Six hours; £86.50 per person.
Your finished pieces: Your studies and painting leave with you, with no firing or later collection required.
For giving a piece of furniture a new chapter
This one-day taster introduces the tools and techniques behind upholstery in a group of no more than four. Bring a small piece of furniture and your chosen top fabric, then work through the relevant preparation, webbing, stuffing and fabric application with guidance.
Discuss your proposed piece with the tutor before booking so the project suits the day. Footstool frames can be supplied at extra cost. Specialist tools and upholstery materials are included, alongside a light lunch, tea, coffee and homemade cake.
Date: Wednesday 18 November, 9.30am-4.30pm; booking requests require the maker’s confirmation.
Duration and price: Seven hours; £125 per person, plus your top fabric and any purchased frame.
Your finished piece: Agree a manageable project with the tutor: completion within the day depends on the piece and work involved.
For decorations you can bring out every year
Green Spiral Willow’s festive workshop at Corfe Castle Village Hall is an appealing way to begin the Christmas preparations. Working with willow and rush, guests make a selection of decorations, with designs including reindeer, Christmas trees, stars, miniature wreath hoops and a rush angel.
The session welcomes all levels and includes festive snacks and a glass of mulled wine. Choose this for a sociable morning and handmade decorations with a natural, rustic feel.
Date: Sunday 22 November, 9.30am-12.30pm.
Duration and price: Three hours; £35 per person.
Your finished pieces: Take your decorations home on the day.
For more inspiration, explore our other Dorset Lifestyle guides:
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