Scrapbooking

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/clothes-making-altering-workshop-5-weeks-2/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/clothes-making-altering-workshop-5-weeks-2/) **⋆⋆⋆** Do you want to jump into making your own clothes but have never used a pattern? Do you wish to copy a beloved piece of clothing? Would you like to learn how to adjust your own pattern to fit just you? Learn how to take body measurements, read and alter a commercial pattern to fit, lay out and cut fabric and construct a finished garment to a high standard using one of our Janome 525s or Bernina 1008 series sewing machines. During the sessions of this small group of learners you will gain confidence and improve any sewing skills you already have. If you have never used a machine, we can guide you through making a simple garment from a purchased pattern. Bring your own pattern or use one of our small selection. If you have sewing experience but want to start creating your own patterns, you can learn how to create a bespoke piece of clothing. You can also bring a piece of clothing to alter or fix. We supply the basics and the calico you will use to make a ‘toile’ (an inexpensive mock up) to save you ruining your chosen final fabric. Along the way, talented tutor and seamstress will teach you lots of techniques and tips to ramp up your sewing passion. This is a perfect class if you have been teaching yourself so far, or if your last project was made a long time ago at school. **Suitable for:** Suitable for beginners, enjoyable for those with experience. A good level of English and basic math skills are useful. **Next start date:** Check our website for more dates: [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/clothes-making-altering/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/clothes-making-altering/)

**Bookable via our website ➡️** https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-woodwork-make-a-cupboard-13/ **⋆⋆⋆** If you hanker after a really useful item to take home with you, this versatile cabinet is an amazing piece of joinery to learn how to make. Made from seasoned pine, this classic project will teach you how to make an accurate wood frame, with a hinged, panelled door. The completed cabinet is 435mmH x 300mmW x 140mmD. You will have the opportunity of learning classic joints, such as a mortice and tenon and dovetails, insert a shelf and hang a door, as you build your skills week by week. You will use measuring and marking tools, and hand tools, including chisels, smoothing, plough and rebate planes. Over 12 weeks, we will cover many aspects of traditional joinery tuition. This content-rich class will suit everybody who wants to learn a lot in a short time. Len Conway, a very experienced craftsperson and tutor will explain each part of the process and instill lifelong good habits as well as tips for improving accuracy if you have some woodwork experience. About Len Len Conway has over forty years of experience in further education. He has taught carpentry, Joinery and multi-skills to a high level. His interests include music, architecture, art, mountain walking and boating.

**[Everything I Never Told You](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18693763-everything-i-never-told-you) by Celeste Ng (292 pages)** *Genre: Literary Fiction, Family Drama, Mystery* **Summary:** Lydia is the favorite child of the Lee family, and her parents are determined she will fulfill the dreams they could never reach. But when Lydia’s body is found in a nearby lake, the fragile balance of their family shatters. As the truth of her life and death slowly unfolds, each family member is forced to confront long-held secrets, unspoken expectations, and the weight of silence. Celeste Ng’s stunning debut is a moving exploration of identity, family pressures, and the invisible ties that bind us together. ***Trigger Warning:*** *This book contains themes of racism, sexism, parental pressure, and grief. Please take care while reading.* *** **Join Our Book Club Bingo! 📚💔** For our May pick, we’re diving into an intimate and heart-wrenching family story that blends mystery with emotional depth — with a side of Book Club Bingo, of course! **How It Works:** 🎲 Grab Your Bingo Card: We’ll give you a custom card with prompts and themes from the book. ✅ Mark Your Cards: Tick off squares during our discussion. 🎉 Shout “Bingo!”: First to complete 2 rows, columns, or diagonals wins. 🎁 Win a Book: Two lucky winners will go home with a new read! Expect a night of thoughtful discussion on family expectations, cultural identity, love, loss, and the things we leave unsaid. Come ready to share your reflections and reactions. 📍 *The Dog & Bull (in Surrey Street) in Croydon* 📅 *13th of May 2026 (Wednesday) at 7:00 PM* Are you ready to uncover *everything they never told you*? 🌊📖

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/upholstery-bring-your-own-chair-monday-eve-17/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/upholstery-bring-your-own-chair-monday-eve-17/) **⋆⋆⋆** KEY PROJECT: RE-UPHOLSTERING YOUR OWN CHAIR. Suitable for beginners and fun for advanced learners. This workshop is led by Krasmira Nikolova, an experienced upholsterer. We provide the use of all upholstery tools and equipment including compressed air staple guns. Basic upholstery materials that you require for your project will be moderately charged on a pay-as-you-use basis and will be dependent on each chair’s requirements. We can advise you on the purchase of your top fabric and we have a lovely library of fabric samples to help make up your mind. The Goodlife Centre sells all the basic tools and materials for use on projects worked on at home. This is a fantastic chance to up-cycle and personalise a family piece you have at home or a junk shop find and a great way to immerse yourself into the wonderful world of upholstery. The course is suitable for both beginners and those who have a basic knowledge but little experience who wish to extend their expertise. **Choosing a suitable chair** If you are a newcomer to upholstery, there are a couple of pointers to help you choose a chair to work on. Choose something that has one or two flat planes – a seat and a back – as curves and arms are more complex and take longer to achieve. The chair on the right was completed in about 12 weeks. If you are a complete beginner, you could bring something more simple such as an upholstered footstool. More experienced upholsters can bring more complex pieces. Your chair can be traditionally built or modern, but be aware that some modern pieces have been constructed using machinery and are difficult to recreate by hand. [Click here for a detailed PDF of suitable chairs.](https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2r8UvbQtaH5RTVKUjlBdkhDX3c/view?usp=sharing) **Please email info@thegoodlifecentre.co.uk with a photo of your chair prior to the course so we can answer any suitability questions and advise if your chair is suitable**. We have very limited storage at the centre, so we can only store smaller pieces during the course. Please make sure the total dimensions are less than 1000mm high by 750mm wide, with a depth of 750mm. The use of tools and machinery is included. All materials will be charged at nominal rates. Some materials will not be kept in stock but can be ordered. Approved projects can be stored at the centre. We cannot offer additional time to work on your project outside of workshop times.

**Agenda:** * 6:30 pm - 7:00 pm: Introduction and housekeeping * 7:00 pm - 8:15 pm: Book discussion * 8:15 pm - 8:30 pm: Next books

**FREE TO MEMBERS, BECAME A MEMBER WHEN YOU ARRIVE** Sometimes the best therapy is simply slowing down, using your hands, and sharing a moment with kind people. 💛 If life has been a little busy or stressful, why not take a small break in the middle of the week? Join us for our **free ceramic classes** — a relaxed and friendly space where we make simple clay pieces, chat, laugh, and meet new friends. You don’t need any experience. Just come as you are and enjoy the moment. 🎨 Playing with clay 💬 Friendly conversations 🌿 A little pause from everyday life 📅 Every Wednesday ⏰ 7–9 pm Everyone is welcome. It would be lovely to see you there. 😊 Any questions, call/text Rodrigo +44 7535 272361 or Rita +44 7454 044190

Our very first meet! Join us at \*a to be determined location\* to discuss The Raven Scholar by Antonia Hodgson! We'll update the event with the location closer to the time. Please come having read the book and is possible with fun/creative discussion questions!

Let's sketch The Barbican, a brutalist masterpiece full of loads of twisty turns and a magnificent church. Let's meet outside the Barbican tube station at 1pm. Completely free of charge, no need to sign up, bring a friend! Feel free to drop in for the whole two hours or just short while if you'd prefer. Look for the tall ginger fella sketching away as the central meetup spot, but feel free to roam as far and wide as you like and sketch anything you damn well please! Please bring your own sketchbooks and pens/pencils. The plan will be to meet at 1pm, sketch for a couple of hours and meet back and chat at 3pm. There are plenty of places around to grab coffee or a bite to eat, hopefully the weather is good so we'll be able to sit outside but if not we could consider ducking into a cafe. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- About Sketchbook London Every week we will choose a location around the magnificent city of London and draw people, buildings, pigeons, bins, anything you want.... No payment, no pressure, no need to sign up, just show up and draw for a couple of hours. All levels, abilities and professions welcome, bring a friend! Zero pressure to interact, network, impress in any way, this is just a way to get out and about and appreciate the joy of urban sketching and all the weird and wonderful creatures that inhabit this thriving metropolis. I am a storyboard artist working in animation and I am happy to discuss sketching techniques or give feedback on any work but this is by no means an exclusive event for artists, all are welcome :)

**PLEASE PURCHASE YOUR TICKET VIA THIS LINK ONLY:** **[TICKETS](https://fatso.ma/3foN).** Step into a bold new creative playground at **L’arch** — a 1,200 sq ft converted railway arch launching this spring as a striking photoshoot space designed for powerful visual storytelling. This immersive urban venue blends industrial edge with theatrical elegance, offering a dynamic backdrop for high-impact content, fashion editorials, and artistic collaborations. **Theme: “Iconic Statements”** Inspired by underground culture, high fashion, and futuristic fantasy, this shoot fuses burlesque drama,, and urban-core aesthetics — all elevated with elegance and class. It’s about reclaiming space, pushing boundaries, and creating visuals that feel iconic, rebellious, and unforgettable. Whether you’re shooting, modeling, styling, or showcasing your work — this space is built to transform creative visions into standout content. **WHAT TO EXPECT** ✨ 4-Hour Collaborative Photoshoot 👠 Live Catwalk Runway Moments throughout the session 🤝 Network While Shooting — connect, collaborate, and create in real time 🎥 High-Volume Content Opportunities • Behind-the-scenes • Backstage footage ⚡ Relaxed but High-Energy Creative Vibe Designed to maximise output while keeping it fun and supportive. **VENUE HIGHLIGHTS – L’ARCH SHOOTING LOCATION** 🎹 Baby Grand Piano 👗 Plush Dressing & Prep Area 👑 Statement Throne with Wings 💡 Neon Runway Catwalk 🎨 Graffiti Walls & Industrial Textures 🛋 Semi-Circle Sofa for Editorial Setups 🔆 Iconic Illuminated Signage 🏢 Expansive 1,200 sq ft Open-Plan Layout **Who’s this for?** ✔ Photographers & Content Creators (All skill levels welcome) ✔ Models & Performers (No experience required) ✔ Designers, Stylists, MUAs & Visual Artists ✔ Anyone looking to collaborate, create, and elevate their portfolio DRESS CODE – MODELS Models should arrive with 1–3 of their own looks prepared before the shoot. If designers are joining, they will be present to provide additional outfit changes on the day. STYLE DIRECTION Think editorial, bold, and expressive. ✨ Burlesque glamour, class & elegance ✨ Futuristic silhouettes ✨ Elevated urban looks ENCOURAGED ELEMENTS Corsetry • Leather • Metallics • Tailoring Dramatic accessories • Statement makeup Bring pieces that tell a story — this is a space to go all in. **Collaboration Disclaimer:** This is a collaborative shoot. • No additional charges should apply for models to receive photos. • All imagery created must be shared without logos or watermarks. • Everyone involved will be encouraged to collaborate via Instagram & credit all creatives appropriately. We’ll ensure all participants are informed and aligned to keep the collaboration fair, respectful, and transparent. **Want in?** Once you grab your ticket, email welove.socialise@gmail.com with your WhatsApp number and Instagram handle. You’ll be added to the WhatsApp group chat at least 2 weeks (if not before) before the event where all final details will be shared. 📍 Exact location revealed to ticket holders only 📸 Follow us on IG **@welove_shoots** for updates and previews

**\*FREE FOR MEMBERS, JOIN WHEN YOU ARRIVE!\*** Come and join us at the **Living Room Club Glengal Groove** on Fridays between 1 p.m. and 3 pm to upcycle second-hand clothes. We gather for creative transformation and upcycling of second-hand clothing items and materials to sell in our cafe. The income from this project supports our Homeless Project in Soho. For further information, please contact Neide on 07585560345

May's Book; Alan Hollinghurst - Our Evenings A fresh, intentional space for readers in East London who take their fiction seriously. We aren't a social mixer that happens to have a book in the background; we are a dedicated circle of six readers who meet once a month to dissect, debate, and celebrate high-quality literature. Why Only Six? We believe the best literary analysis happens when everyone has a seat at the head of the table. By strictly limiting our meetups to 6 people, we ensure: No one is talked over. The conversation stays focused and nuanced. An intimate environment where we can truly get to the heart of the text. The Reading List Our focus is strictly fiction only. We explore the boundaries of the craft, focusing on: Contemporary Literary Fiction (The Booker, International Booker, and beyond). Modern Classics that deserve a second look. Translated Works that offer a different lens on the world. How We Work When: Once a month on a Sunday Where: Carefully selected, quiet spots across East London—from Hackney to Bow—where the atmosphere suits a serious conversation. The Commitment: Because spaces are so limited, we ask that you only RSVP if you are certain you can attend and have finished the book. We dive straight into spoilers and structural analysis from minute one. If you cannot attend, pleaae cancel 24 hours before hand to allow someone else to attend

Today we'll be looking at the work of the Italian artist Caravaggio. Caravaggio adopted *chiaroscuro* lighting in his paintings in the 16th century. *Chiaroscuro* is an Italian term referencing the contrast of light (chiar) and dark (oscuro) to model three-dimensional forms. It’s a style that has quite dramatic results and one that photographers can use to create dramatic images. **Join us for a workshop in 2 parts:** * Informative session on the incredibly interesting life and work of Caravaggio * Shoot chiaroscuro style * We will also discuss street photography tips **PAYMENT OPTIONS** * **PayPal via RSVP** * The Meetup transaction fee will be added. and you'll automatically be added to attend * **Send £25 via PayPal** to \*\*[creativebeansproductions@gmail.com**](http://creativebeansproductions@gmail.com%2A%2A/) with no extra fee. * Send us a text or comment below and we will add you to the event attendee list. EQUIPMENT: * Any camera * Any lens such as a standard 18-55, 24-70mm etc. OTHER ESSENTIALS * A fun and experimental attitude! TRAVEL * As usual check TFL website for any issues that may delay your journey \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- CONTACT * Alex 07956 264049 VENICE PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND - Oct 2026 [https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095) UPCOMING EVENTS [www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events](http://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events)

Today we'll be looking at the work of the Italian artist Caravaggio. Caravaggio adopted *chiaroscuro* in his paintings in the 16th century- his work beautifully combines a realistic view of the human state- physical and emotional- with a dramatic use of lighting. *Chiaroscuro* is an Italian term referencing the contrast of light (chiar) and dark (oscuro) to model three-dimensional forms. It’s a style that has quite dramatic results and one that photographers can learn a lot amount about lighting from studying. **Join us for a workshop in 2 parts:** * Informative session on the incredibly interesting life and work of Caravaggio * Shoot chiaroscuro style * We will also discuss street photography tips EQUIPMENT: * Any camera * Any lens such as a standard 18-55, 24-70mm etc. OTHER ESSENTIALS * A fun and experimental attitude! TRAVEL * As usual check TFL website for any issues that may delay your journey CONTACT * Alex 07956 264049 **UPCOMING EVENTS** **VENICE PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND - Oct 2026** **[https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/313109100/](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/313109100/)** **UPCOMING EVENTS** **[https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/calendar](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/calendar)**

Let's Crop!

**Our May novel is: *The Quiet Librarian* by Allen Eskens** **This month’s book is set in the 20th century and mixes historical fiction with suspense and thriller elements. It also centers on women’s stories and relationships. The novel is 368 pages in print or 8 hours and 12 minutes on audiobook.** Hana Babic is a quiet, middle-aged librarian in Minnesota who wants nothing more than to be left alone. But when a detective arrives with the news that her best friend has been murdered, Hana knows that something evil has come for her, a dark remnant of the past she and her friend had shared. Thirty years before, Hana was someone else: Nura Divjak, a teenager growing up in the mountains of war-torn Bosnia—until Serbian soldiers arrived to slaughter her entire family before her eyes. The events of that day thrust Nura into the war, leading her to join a band of militia fighters, where she became not only a fierce warrior but a legend—the deadly Night Mora. But a shattering final act forced Nura to flee to the United States with a bounty on her head\*\*.\*\*

The theme for May is Thriller. • The book we will be discussing is A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson. (determined by votes from April Book Club. Let me know if you'd like a free digital copy of the book) • This event will be at the main library. Feel free to come whether or not you've started or finished the book. • Small snacks will be provided. You're welcome to bring your own snacks & drinks too! Let me know if you’d like to volunteer to bring snacks or drinks for the group.

Join us for our May Book Club gathering where we will come together to discuss *[Cantoras](https://caroderobertis.com/books/cantoras/)*[ ](https://caroderobertis.com/books/cantoras/)by [Caro de Robertis](https://caroderobertis.com/bio/) in a safe and welcoming environment. Make new friends who share your passion for books and connect with fellow LGBTQ book enthusiasts.

Who’s up for a fun night out? Get your boots on, grab your cowboy hat, and let’s have some fun! Thinking about checking out PBR Cowboy Bar & Smokehouse for a lively evening to unwind, connect, and enjoy the night together. • Lively atmosphere with country vibes • Delicious food + drinks • Music, dancing, and lots of laughs • Great conversation and new connections