From mini-loom weaving, to macrame plant hanging, to knitting workshops, if you're looking for a crafty teacher then Make Town is the place to be. Set up by Brooke Dennis, the vibrant Hackney-based studio offers all the tools, equipment, and materials needed to get stuck into your next crafting project. With expert tutors and a focus on community, you'll be sure to find your place here amongst other crafty humans.
We spoke to Brooke all about how she first fell in love with crafts, what drew her to teaching, and what advice she has for fellow creatives.
Book with Make Town on ObbyWhen was the first time you started working with textiles and crafts, and what drew you to them?
I found my groove with textiles at high school, in Aotearoa, New Zealand. The teacher, bless her, couldn't control the class, so we had a lot of free reign and it was a creative jungle. At 16, I got a job at the local fabric shop and the discount I was offered was good I became an addict to the cloth! However when I moved to London, I had just one suitcase with me, so I didn't have a lot of space to bring my fabric with me. Because of this, I ended up picking up knitting, and have been steaming through that medium too!
What made you realise that teaching might be for you? And was it difficult for you to make that leap from creating for yourself to teaching others?
I started my first craft group in Christchurch, when I had young kids, as a way to engage socially. For me personally, the teaching is kinda secondary. My main priority is creating a space where people want to feel connected with other humans. When it comes to creating for myself, I make sure I take the time to knit every morning before work, and again at the end of the day. So my daily practice is still a big part of my world.
What encouraged you to join Obby as a teacher?
When Tom (Obby's founder) launched Obby in 2016, he came to my first studio, and he was extremely passionate about what he was creating during the workshop. He and the rest of the Obby team have since developed the platform into something very strong and user friendly, and the talent amongst the community is wonderful.
How do you maintain your inspiration for crafting, and how do you pass that inspiration onto your students?
I am inspired by the people around me, and in reflection they are inspired by me. I have lots of practices that I do regularly to try to get the most out of my life, and I think that inspires others to have fun too. If seeing is believing and the proof is in the pudding, I just need to keep doing my thing, and people will join in when they are ready.
Do you feel crafting helps people with their wellbeing and mental health? And why?
Having an external space to engage with is really helpful for disconnecting from work and home, especially as the pandemic has fused those both together. It has become a real melting pot for those from overseas, for those without family here, for those new to the city, and for those wanting a new community. I know it helps from first hand experience, and I feel it all the time in my customers.
What has been your favourite student interaction since you’ve started teaching?
Obviously my faves are my repeat customers; those who know just pop in to do a little 'show and tell'. We celebrate birthdays, engagements, and roast dinners together. The craft is a starting point, but the friendship is the real journey.
What's the one thing about teaching that you feel you benefit from the most?
I love the challenge of trying to explain something to someone, in a million different ways, until they finally catch the moment and the penny drops! It's the best.
Any tips for aspiring creatives who are looking to start teaching their own classes?
Know your stuff, and be honest when you don't. The more you know, the more you know you don't know. Also, do other peoples classes and practice being a beginner again. It's tough and humbling, so it should keep you fresh and gutsy.
Book with Make Town on ObbyWant to know more?
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