Scrapbooking

April workshops at The Journaling Club hosted by Patricia. A space for exploring different journaling techniques, building confidence in your artistic skills and meeting likeminded people - away from screens! All materials are provided - only bring your journals. To bring: Your journal - this can be in your preferred size and shape Weekly themes: 13 April - Blooming Flowers 20 April - Whimsical Landscapes 27 April - Freedom & Protest

A relaxed London book club exploring the most influential book in history. Whether you think it’s rubbish, holy, or you’re simply not sure what to make of it, you’re very welcome. We meet for two hours at a time. Our reading list includes books from the Bible — as well as some of the books that didn’t make it into most Bibles. The Bible has shaped culture, law, art and ethics for centuries, yet many people are personally unfamiliar with it. Each evening is structured but informal. The group chooses the book or books to read, and discussion takes place in small groups. No lectures. No pressure. No need to prepare anything in advance. The aim is thoughtful, respectful conversation. Plenty of people feel they know quite a bit about the Bible, yet struggle to read it. This is a space to explore it thoughtfully and honestly — in good company. This club is for: • Curious thinkers • Skeptics • Christians with questions • Anyone who wants to make up their own mind Our only rules? Be curious. Be honest. Be kind. And enjoy yourself. It’s also a chance to find a bit of community along the way. Photos may be taken during the evening to share on the Meetup page or social media to help others see what the group is like. If you prefer not to appear in photos, just let the organiser know at any time. We meet in a private room on the second floor of the Duke of Sussex pub. When you arrive, get yourself a drink, ask for The Book Club, and come on up.

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/hard-wood-treasure-box-15/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/hard-wood-treasure-box-15/) **⋆⋆⋆** This is a content rich three-day course in a very small class size which includes: * **Supervised use of woodwork machinery**. **(surface planer thicknesser, panel saw, table router, hand router and bandsaw.)** * **Learning how to use jigs and rods**. * **Solid wood carcass construction.** From a technical drawing and a length of timber to the final sanding of the completed box, expert furniture maker and tutor, Marcin Waszak will guide each learner through all the steps needed to create this hardwood treasure box. The box measures 330mm x 304mm x 180mm and can be used to store lots of special things and perhaps become an heirloom! The beautiful hardwood and veneers used for this project has been sourced and prepared from a sustainable woodyard. The course begins by explaining how to stay safe while using our professional and powerful woodworking machines. Marcin will talk you through the materials and tools you will be using and let you practice before beginning the project. We have created a cutting list so that each person can learn how to process the wood and begin making very quickly. If you hanker to use some big machines and learn how to use jigs and to work accurately from plans, this is a great course for you. **Steps to making your own Treasure Box:** 1. Student introductions, inspirations and knowledge. 2. Introduction to the project. 3. Health and Safety. 4. Understanding the materials and tools we will be using in this course (wood technology, proper usage of the tools, jigs). 5. Practice on how to use the tools and jigs in the workshop. 6. Cutting list. 7. Making. Marcin says: ‘I will approach the sessions with a solid introduction not only to Health and Safety but to give an understanding of materials and tools. I believe it’s important to understand the nature of different types of wood and how it reacts (i.e. depending on variety, cut or thickness) when handling it, glueing or using different tools. There will be a great focus on how to use tools and machinery in the correct way for best results. We will be starting from technical drawing explanation and introduction to the material and the design itself. I will love to know people’s backgrounds before we start the session so everyone will feel more comfortable and confident to work as a team. I will have prepared a cutting list to make things easier and so we can start making (and having fun) as soon as possible. I would like to make the sessions inclusive and provide a safe space for everyone. I always take people’s abilities into account and endeavour to be there for students that want to share their struggles in order to make the making experience something they can enjoy.’

**Bookable via our website ➡️** https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-woodwork-flip-lid-dovetail-box-5-afternoons-2/ ⋆⋆⋆ An absorbing course for confident beginners and an enjoyable learning experience for anyone with a little woodworking experience. Using a fusion of hardwood and softwood, this five-week course will teach you the fundamentals of woodwork and give you an opportunity to use classic hand tools; brass-backed tenon saws, sharp wood chisels and delicately honed vintage wood planes. This well-proportioned flip-lidded box is constructed of European redwood using a single dovetail joint at each corner and the fitted hardwood lid is attached to the base by a handmade ‘dowel’ peg hinge. The project will familiarise learners with many classic woodwork techniques and is taught with patience and enthusiasm by Andy Nicholl, who has devised this informative and challenging project. You will take home a treasure to treasure- and we hope it will enthuse you to learn how to make many handmade woodwork projects in the years to come. If your keyboard-weary hands have been needing the skill to fulfil and satisfy a yearning desire to create something you can hold, come and join us in our well-equipped and inspiring workshops and discover the wonderful world of woodwork. **Key skills:** * Measuring marking and cutting dovetail joints to make an accurate framed box. * Planing and shaping a hardwood lid to fit the softwood frame base. * Making and fitting a hardwood dowel joint to attach the frame base to the lid.

This month we will be reading/discussing ***[The Names by Florence Knapp](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/217245618-the-names?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=YJn2SSyNrj&rank=2).*** If you have not read the book, you are more than welcome to join. Be aware, there will be spoilers! 18:30 - 18:45 - Meet, get drinks, get settled (at the back and upstairs) 18:45 - 19:45 - Discuss the book 19:45 onwards - pick book for next meet and socialize **The Venue: [Shinner and Sudtone](https://shinnerandsudtone.co.uk/)**[ ](https://shinnerandsudtone.co.uk/) A lovely little pub with a variety of craft beer. Usually quiet on a Monday and we get the upstairs area. They serve food and dogs are most welcome. **The Book:** ***[The Names by Florence Knapp](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/217245618-the-names?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=YJn2SSyNrj&rank=2).*** In the wake of a catastrophic storm, Cora sets off with her nine-year-old daughter, Maia, to register the birth of her son. Her husband, Gordon, respected in the community but a controlling presence at home, intends for her to follow a long-standing family tradition and name the baby after him. But when faced with the decision, Cora hesitates.... Spanning thirty-five years, what follows are three alternate and alternating versions of their lives, shaped by Cora's last-minute choice of name. In richly layered prose, *The Names* explores the painful ripple effects of domestic abuse, the messy ties of family, and the possibilities for autonomy and healing.

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-japanese-joints-5-evenings/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-japanese-joints-5-evenings/) ⋆⋆⋆ **Intro to Japanese Joints** If you are intrigued by the precision and elegance of Japanese joinery, we hope you will join us for six sessions of learning how to produce Japanese joints. Using unique and creative ways to avoid using screws, nails, and glue, this art is passed down from master to apprentice. Even with the advent of power tools, the craft is still practised by hand as a sign of respect towards their heritage, culture, and traditions. Japanese woodworking is all about principle, discipline, and accuracy. The lack of power tools is a testament to the practice put into mastering the craft. Experienced woodworker Auram Desforges is a Japanese joinery enthusiast. He will guide you through the Japanese tools and techniques to make several wood joints. You will learn which tools to use, and how to measure and cut with accuracy so that you can attempt any joint design in the future. Expect a calm workshop with lots of concentration. This course is not project-based but you will take home as many joints as you have crafted. Auram teaches other classes at the centre: Kumiko coasters, Kumiko lamp, Make a chair

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

There is something magical about black and white photography. It is a medium that is well known for adding atmosphere and mood and drama to photos. One where you can experiment with the contrast between light and shadow, without the distraction of colour. WHAT YOU WILL LEARN In this workshop you will learn about the elements that make a great black and white photograph and apply that to a variety of subjects including architecture, street and portrait. We will also discuss how you can create a consistent body of work. Join us for an informative and fun session! EXPERIENCE Beginners/Refreshers EQUIPMENT * Any camera / smartphone * Any lens such as 24-70mm or equivalent * A sense of fun and curiosity! Please check the weather and dress accordingly **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** * **Text Alex on 07956264049 and we will add you to the event attendee list** CONTACT Alex 07956 264049 VENICE PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND - Oct 2026 [https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/313109100/](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/313109100/) UPCOMING EVENTS [www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events](http://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events) Photo ©Daria (DK)

Do you have spare books lying around your home? Do you want to read new interesting books for free while socializing with interesting people? This is the event for you. We will enjoy nice drinks and snacks together at a beautiful lounge bar in London. You can bring your books and exchange them with whoever has the books you want to read. Since this is a Science and Philosophy book club, it would be great for you to bring non-fiction books that are insightful and thought-provoking. If you want to bring fiction books that are scientifically or philosophically insightful, feel free to bring those as well. Since it is a social event, I encourage everyone to make deep meaningful conversations and make new friends. You can come alone or bring your friends with you. If you come alone, there is no need to be shy or scared. I will welcome you and introduce you to cool interesting people to speak with. Also feel free to come even if you forget to bring any books.

Let's sketch around The Tower of London! Meet outside the Sundial at Tower Hill. Nice views of the Tower and Tower Bridge. A castle commissioned by William the Conqueror as a way to show the Anglos who was Le Chef. Nearest Stops: Tower Hill/Fenchurch Street 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. Hopefully the weather will be 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 :)

Join us for our next meetup at the British Museum, where we’ll focus on indoor street and architecture photography. For our next photowalk, we’ll explore the British Museum, one of London’s most iconic spaces and a perfect setting for indoor street photography. We’ll use the museum’s dramatic architecture, light, and atmosphere to capture candid human stories against a timeless backdrop. We will focus on how people interact with art, history, and space. Please note: **Entry is free but requires booking a timed pass online in advance.** [You can book yours here](https://ticketing.britishmuseum.org/events?k=general%20admission&_gl=1*j9xgpx*_gcl_au*MTk2NzY0MDg5OS4xNzcyNDQ0ODc1*_ga*MTQ5OTg5ODk2Ni4xNzcyNDQ0ODc1*_ga_08TLB9R8X1*czE3NzI0NDQ4NzQkbzEkZzEkdDE3NzI0NDQ5NTkkajU2JGwwJGgw). 📍 Location: British Museum 📍 Meeting point: British Museum Montague Place (rear entrance) 🧭 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4kp4yJMHG3N6oHbN9 Need inspiration? Check out this Pinterest board: [https://pin.it/6mjRxOSbH](https://pin.it/6mjRxOSbH) Bring your any camera (digital, analog, phone or video), and let’s see what we can capture! **What to expect** A friendly environment where all cameras and skill levels are welcome. This is not a workshop; if you’d like to grow your photography skills, check out our other events and workshops designed for those who want to learn more about photography techniques. **Stay connected** The day of the event, Live location will be shared on our WhatsApp group ([https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ek2mMMZioqu19CJJPoQal4](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ek2mMMZioqu19CJJPoQal4)) **Want help with your camera?** We welcome all kind of photo and video cameras! You’re welcome to ask for tips: we’re a supportive community. However, for a proper learning experience, we recommend asking the host about 1:1 coaching sessions or checking our Meetp page for upcoming workshops. **Join our online communities** * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsbyframe * WhatsApp: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ek2mMMZioqu19CJJPoQal4](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ek2mMMZioqu19CJJPoQal4)

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/kumiko-coasters-54/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/kumiko-coasters-54/) **⋆⋆⋆** Kumiko Coasters Woodwork knowledge is endless. Here is an opportunity to experience the delicate side of Japanese woodwork in this one-day workshop. Kumiko is a delicate and sophisticated technique of assembling wooden pieces without the use of nails. Thinly slit wooden pieces are grooved, punched, and mortised, and then fitted individually using a plane, saw, chisel, and other tools to make fine adjustments. The technique was developed in Japan in the Asuka Era (600-700 AD), and has since been refined and passed down through generations of craftsmen who are passionate about the tradition of Kumiko. Traditionally, the technique has been used for room dividers and sliding doors but now designers are using the patterns to explore decoration in lights, lampshades, and other furniture. During the day you will have a chance to make two exquisite Kumiko tiles using lime wood or walnut. For extra rigidity, we have glued the tiles as they were made. It’s your choice! This workshop will be guided by Auram Desforges who teaches our longer Kumiko Lamp course. All materials and use of tools included. Suitable for absolute beginners.

**Let’s catch up and take an afternoon break.** **Grab a coffee or snack and let’s chit chat! Gayle and I will bring adult coloring books and/or a simple craft if you’d like to unwind and relax.😊**

* Second ever book club! April meet up. All are welcome. * The book will be Play Nice by Rachel Harrison (determined by votes from March Book Club. Let me know if you’d like a free digital copy of the book) * This event will be at the main library, meeting room 1B, the location will not be changed for this event due to the number of people attending, we will just add more chairs if needed! * 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! Starting in June I will try to keep future book clubs at the Dublin Library. Now that I understand their reservation system, I will be on top of it with booking that location as soon as the date is released for the month. Thanks for your understanding with the varying locations in the meantime.

AI is changing how art is made. But when does it stop being your work and start being the machine’s? This month we're going to be doing a panel with with digital image, music, and written word artists, talking about at what point, while using AI in the creation process, does the work become not the artist creation? We encourage audience participation during this event that will be moderated by Chris Slee. Whether you’re deep in the field or just getting curious, come connect with others building and exploring AI in Columbus. Sponsored by [Transform Labs](https://www.transformlabs.com/services) Sign up also accessible via [Transform Labs Luma](https://luma.com/55umjqta)

**Our April novel is: *The Hong Kong Widow* by Kristen Loesch** **This month’s novel blends gothic atmosphere with historical fiction and chilling horror, set against the haunting backdrop of China. The book is 368 pages in print and 10 hours and 42 minutes on audiobook.** In 1950s Hong Kong, Mei is a young refugee of the Chinese Communist revolution struggling to put her past in Shanghai behind her. When she receives a shocking invitation—to take part in a competition in one of the city's most notorious haunted houses, pitting six spirit mediums against one another in a series of six séances over six nights, until a single winner emerges—she has every reason to refuse. Except that the hostess, a former Shanghainese silent film star, is none other than the wife of the man who once destroyed Mei’s entire life. It is promised the winner will receive a fortune, but there is only one prize Mei wants: revenge. Decades later, the final night of that competition has become an infamous urban legend: The police were called to the scene of a brutal massacre but found no evidence, dismissing it as a collective hallucination. Mei knows what she saw, but now someone else is convinced they know what she did. She must uncover the truth about the last night she ever spent in that house—even if the ghosts of her past are waiting for her there. . . .

Join us for lunch at Cooper’s Hawk in Easton. If the weather is nice, we’ll enjoy lunch on their gorgeous patio!

Welcome, readers! Our April read is **_Martyr!_ by Kaveh Akbar.** The story follows a young Iranian American poet grappling with grief, addiction, and the aching question of what makes a life meaningful. Drawn into an unexpected friendship with a terminally ill artist, he begins to confront faith, love, and the seduction of self-destruction. Lyrical, darkly funny, and emotionally piercing, the novel wrestles with beauty and despair in equal measure. It’s a story about longing—to be seen, to be forgiven, and to matter. Looking forward to discussing with everyone! We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖

Let's Crop!