Scrapbooking

Join us for an afternoon to shoot a gathering of creative people who love colour and dressing up. There are no rules – they believe the more colours the better. Witness this concert of colours and meet some of the London’s most vibrant souls and creative minds & bodies! Today we can practice our portrait and posing skills. We have tips in plenty on-hand and willing subjects! Expect to have oddles and oddles of fun! **PAYMENT OPTIONS** * **PayPal via RSVP** * The Meetup transaction fee will be added and you'll automatically added to the event * **Send £25 via PayPal** to **creativebeansproductions@gmail.com** with no extra fee. * Send us a text or comment below and we will add you to the event attendee list. WHAT YOU WILL LEARN * Approaching people * Posing techniques * Capturing portraits * Camera settings for good exposure * Camera settings to help your subject stand out from the background EQUIPMENT * Any camera * A kit lens or similar * A 50mm will work well * A fun and experimental attitude! TRAVEL As usual check TFL website for any issues that may delay your journey. CONTACT Alex 07956 264049 **TRAVEL WEEKENDS** **VENICE WEEKEND - Oct 2026** **[https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095/](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095/)** **MONTHLY EVENTS** **[https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa)**

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-traditional-upholstery-evening-38/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-traditional-upholstery-evening-38/) ⋆⋆⋆ **KEY PROJECT: TRADITIONALLY STITCHED AND SEWN EDGED FOOTSTOOL** *All of our upholstery classes are for absolute beginners. It doesn’t matter which one you choose to take first. Each technique that is offered is part of all the processes that every upholsterer has to learn.* 6-week workshop. Thursday nights. 6:30pm – 9pm. A perfect course for a beginner. Jumpstart your knowledge of traditional upholstery skills and methods. Over six Thursday evenings, experienced upholsterers will guide you through the wonderful world of upholstery and help you build a fabulous footstool using traditional methods. You can leave your project at the centre in between classes. Before the advent of foam in the middle of the twentieth century, the only way to make wooden seats more comfortable was to build up layers using available materials. Our small fabric footstool (above) is built from layers of woven webbing, hessian, vegetable fibre, animal hair and calico and is sewn with specialist needles and stitches. Although this method is more labour-intensive than the modern method of using foam, it is much longer lasting and preferred in more expensive pieces of furniture. This is the method used in many traditional chair seats, so once learned, you can apply this method to your own projects. We provide everything for the workshop, from the wood frame to the set of natural beech wood legs that are included for you to paint or stain as you wish. Choose from our selection of top fabrics, or bring your own. You will need about a metre of fabric and you will not need it until the final class. The use of all tools and materials is included. We also have a selection of specialist upholstery tools and all the materials that we use in our workshops for sale at the Goodlife Centre for you to continue your new hobby at home. Beginners welcome. This course is run on a Thursday evening over 6 consecutive weeks. 6:30pm – 9:00pm

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/clothes-making-altering-workshop-6-mornings-5/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/clothes-making-altering-workshop-6-mornings-5/) **⋆⋆⋆** 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/)

What does it take to live a happier life? Discover your path to fulfilment with The Alphabet of Happiness, a real, refreshing, science-backed guide to living a more joyful life. Inspired by Klaudia Mitura’s award-winning podcast, The Happiness Challenge, this invaluable book combines expert insights with hands-on ideas to build happiness in relationships at work and within your own skin. Weaving surprising science with personal anecdotes and topical examples, each of the 26 alphabet-inspired principles offers easy-to-understand psychology with practical solutions, allowing you to explore and apply these insights in any order, step-by-step, to achieve genuine positive transformation in your life. Perfect for self-reflectors and go-getters alike, The Alphabet of Happiness is a must-read for anyone ready to take small but powerful steps toward a happier life.

The discotheque gets disco-technical at **Rock The Docs**! This double headline bill sees **[Marco Spinello](https://www.linkedin.com/in/marco-spinello/)**, Technical Writer at [Booking.com](http://booking.com/) showing us how music theory can be applied to documentation, using examples from both his professional and creative life. Following this act, **[Jerry Bartlett](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-bartlett-content-pro-tech/)**, founder and principal at [Content Pro Tech](https://www.contentprotech.com/) will demonstrate how the fundamentals of technical writing can be applied to gathering and organising metadata for digital music libraries. These presentations will cover: *Why Git is like a metronome - Why managing stakeholders is not unlike managing band members *Why recording an album is not unlike delivering an MVP - How metadata underpins the algorithms of streaming services *How curating metadata is a key aspect of technical writing work - The difference between descriptive metadata and management metadata **Marco Spinello** tells the story of a disco band that shrank from eight members to a power trio, not unlike a company reorganisation with a built-in product pivot. Music and technical writing have more in common than meets the eye; music theory maps the territory like information architecture, a metronome enforces discipline like git, and song dynamics prevent the "wall of text" effect of very long, very dense docs. **Jerry Bartlett** discusses how uploading his music collection to a NAS drive found him drawing on skills honed during his day job as a technical communicator, and working on striking a balance between the right level of granularity, while making sure to not have ‘too much’ metadata. This event is kindly hosted by [Wise](https://wise.com/). **📅Agenda** **When:** Thursday, 18 June, from 6:30pm **Where:** Wise, 65 Clifton Street, London EC2A 4JE **What:** **18:30 - 19:00** Arrival **19:00 - 19:15** Welcome & Housekeeping **19:15 - 19:20** Short introduction to Wise **19:30 - 20:00** Rocks the Docs by Marco Spinello **20:00 - 20:30** Jerry's presentation **20:30 - 21:00** Networking **📍How to find us**: Please head to Wise, 65 Clifton Street, London EC2A 4JE, from 6:30pm onwards -- one of the friendly Write The Docs London team will be checking guests in. 🌎 **Google Maps**: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/r6zdmeDKhyAbLbaf7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/r6zdmeDKhyAbLbaf7) 📜 **What3Words**: [///lift.send.curiosity](https://what3words.com/lift.send.curiosity) 📷 **Photos:** Please note that the organisers may take some photos for the WTD group.

Welcome to our Epping book club — a welcoming space for people who love reading, meaningful conversation, and meeting like-minded book lovers. We’ll explore a mix of thought-provoking fiction, contemporary favourites, and empowering reads, creating engaging discussions in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Our meet-ups will take place at The George and Dragon on Epping High Street, the perfect cosy venue to unwind, connect, and share perspectives. There’ll be plenty of options to enjoy during the evenings too, including tea, coffee, alcoholic drinks, and non-alcoholic options, so everyone feels comfortable and included. Whether you’re an avid reader or just getting back into books, everyone is welcome! This is not a paid event, though we do ask that you purchase a copy of the book we will be reading.

**Collagraph (2 days)** – £125 20 & 27 June 2026 10am-4pm ### Course Overview * Explore contemporary printmaking through a series of short, focused workshops led by artist and printmaker [Raquel Amat](https://art-class-london.co.uk/team/raquel-amat-parra/). Each workshop introduces a specific printmaking technique and can be booked individually. * Workshops take place in our North London studio, a short distance from Crouch End, Finsbury Park, Archway, and Highgate. * Suitable for beginners and those with some experience. * All basic materials provided.

Lets sketch the Banksy Statue on Waterloo place near Pall Mall! It might not be up by then but if not theres tonnes of cool memorials and statues around there to sketch instead. Win win! Let's meet in front of the statue at 11.00 and go off to sketch, I'll wait for a bit for any stragglers and then we can all meet again at the same spot at 13.00 and compare sketches afterwards! Nearest Tube Stop: Piccadilly Circus/ Charing Cross 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. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 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 a composition workshop where we will introduce the work of a few renowned photographers — their style, themes, and visual approach. This could be the geometry of Henri Cartier‑Bresson, the intimacy of Diane Arbus, the colour mastery of Saul Leiter, or the minimalism of Fan Ho. Each workshop will have different photographers work to analyse, learn about and shoot in the style of. **Analyse one signature photograph** * We will will show a series of their images then break down a single image from each photographer: * composition and framing * use of light and shadow * subject placement * visual flow * emotional impact * storytelling choices * negative space * geometrical shapes * etc **Shoot in their style** You’ll receive an exercise inspired by the photographer’s approach. This will include the elements that photographer uses in their work. **What you will learn** * To **see with intention**, not just shoot * Connect theory with practice - analysis followed by action * Build confidence by using a clear creative direction EQUIPMENT * Any camera * Any lens * An open mind and fun attitude! TRANSPORT As usual check the TFL website for any disruptions that may delay your journey on the day. CONTACT Alex 07956 264049 **UPCOMING EVENTS** **TRAVEL WEEKEND - VENICE WEEKEND - Oct 2026** [https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/313109100/](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/313109100/) **MONTHLY EVENTS** [https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/calendar](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/calendar)

For June 2026 we are reading “Most Important Arab Novel of the 20th Century” , Season of migration to the North . Considered a classic of postcolonial literature, the novel explores the impact of British colonialism and European modernity on Sudanese culture and identity. It’s a haunting, layered story about belonging, displacement, and what it means to live between two worlds . We are meeting on the 20th of June at 2 pm at SHOT Marylebone to discuss it .

**🎟️ Tickets available on [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-cyanotype-workshop-with-nature-as-co-author-tickets-1990651946559?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true)**[ ](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-cyanotype-workshop-with-nature-as-co-author-tickets-1990651946559?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true) Discover cyanotype, a photographic printing process, in this hands-on workshop where Nature becomes your co-author Slow down, step outside, and perhaps take a walk through the local *Lee Valley* — exploring *Bow Creek Ecology Park*and *East India Dock Basin* between Canary Wharf and Trinity Buoy Wharf — for a little birdwatching and inspiration from the natural world. Breathe deeply, listen to the river, and enjoy the calm energy that comes from spending time outdoors. Walking in nature can help quiet the mind, restore focus, and reconnect us with the rhythms of the natural world. Notice the delicate shapes, textures, and shadows that Nature creates, and transform them into your own cyanotype prints. Then come to *BE Ka Art Studio*, Elena's riverside atelier in *Trinity Buoy Wharf*, for a relaxing cynotype session. In this hands-on workshop, you'll discover cyanotype. This photographic printing process uses sunlight, water, and natural materials to create stunning one-of-a-kind artworks in deep luminous blue. Using botanicals, shells, feathers, and found objects, you'll compose your own prints and watch them develop in real time. No cameras, screens, or prior experience needed. You'll leave with your own original cyanotype artworks. ## Nature & Back to Gaia These workshops are dedicated to Nature and *Back to Gaia – A Copyright for Nature* 👉 *[https://www.backtogaia.org](https://www.backtogaia.org)* The founder of the project will present during the events, sharing the vision behind the initiative and its work protecting the natural world. 10% of every ticket will be donated to the charity and invested in projects that support and protect Nature. ## What You’ll Do * Arrange botanicals and natural objects to compose your own cyanotype prints * Add a personal touch with wooden letters, drawings, or handwritten details * Expose your work in sunlight — or UV light if the weather is cloudy * Develop your prints in water and watch the images appear ## What’s Included Everything is provided, including: * A5 coated paper sheet in your choice of colour * Acrylic film * Botanicals, feathers, shells, and natural materials *(feel free to bring your own if you'd like)* * Small wooden craft letters * Trays and all cyanotype materials Just bring your curiosity. Additional paper in different colours and sizes will be available to purchase on the day, along with acetate sheets and markers to customise your creations even further. ## Good to Know * No prior experience necessary — suitable for complete beginners * Relaxed and creative atmosphere * Children must be accompanied by an adult * Step-free access available #### **Please Bring** #### **BYOB** – No drinks or food will be provided. You’re welcome to bring your own. The studio is close to local favourites such as *The Orchard Café* and *Layers Bakery***,** if you’d like to grab a drink or snack before or after (both open every day until 4 pm). ## **📍Location – Trinity Buoy Wharf, London** E14 0FP The workshop takes place at **Trinity Buoy Wharf**, a historic 19th-century site in London’s Docklands, now home to one of London’s most vibrant creative communities, a sculpture park, event venues, and the iconic Container City™ buildings. More info: [https://www.trinitybuoywharf.com](https://www.trinitybuoywharf.com/ "https://www.trinitybuoywharf.com/") ***The entry gate will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., so please don’t be late. If you arrive after that, unfortunately, we won’t be able to let you in.*** ## **Privacy & Consent** *By attending this event, you agree that photos and videos may be taken and used for promotional purposes, including on BE* *KA website and social media channels. If you'd prefer not to appear, simply let me know***,** *and I'll make sure to respect your wishes.*

**Join us for an afternoon of community art and craft time!** Whether you are looking to carve out dedicated creative time, wanting to get a lingering project across the finish line, or just looking to chat with fellow local makers—this is the space for you. 🧵 **What to Bring** Bring any art or craft project you are currently working on, as long as it is portable and quiet. Think: * **Yarn & Thread:** Knitting, crochet, embroidery, cross-stitch, hand-sewing, mending. * **Paper & Sketching:** Sketchbooks, adult coloring books, watercolors, bullet journaling. * **Digital:** Tablets, iPad drawing, laptop writing/design. * *Please note: Because we are meeting in a shared public space, no power tools, sewing machines, or high-odor materials (like strong solvents or spray glues), please!* **📍 Where to Find Us** * We will be meeting at **Columbus Metropolitan Library - Hilltop Branch** in **Meeting Room 4**. Room is reserved under **CBUS Maker Meetup.** **⏱️ Timeline** * **1:00 PM:** Arrive, grab a seat, get settled, and do a quick round of introductions so we can see what everyone is working on. * **1:15 PM - 3:00 PM:** Open maker time! Chat, craft, relax, and swap creative ideas. **⚠️ A Note on RSVPs** The RSVP count for this event is strictly limited to 10 spots. If your plans change and you can no longer attend, please update your RSVP to "Not Going" as soon as possible so someone on the waitlist can grab your spot. Please try to give at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel, allowing folks on the waitlist time to check their schedule. *** **We can't wait to meet you and see what you're making! All skill levels welcome.**

Welcome, readers! Our June read is ***Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible*** ***Voyage*** **by Alfred Lansing.** A work of nonfiction, and one of the most astonishing survival stories in history, we follow Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew after their ship is crushed by Antarctic ice. Stranded in one of the harshest environments on Earth, the men endure months of isolation, freezing temperatures, and near starvation—yet refuse to give up hope. Lansing brings their ordeal to life through vivid detail and firsthand accounts, capturing both the brutality of nature and the resilience of the human spirit. At its core, the story is a powerful testament to leadership, perseverance, and the unbreakable will to survive against impossible odds. 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 **all** **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖

Grab a drink or some food and get to know each other. This is our first event and we can take it slow. I’d love to meet everyone and hear if there’s anything you like to get out of the group. Looking forward to meeting you all!

Join us for our June Book Club gathering where we will come together to discuss [The Queer Principles of Kit Webb](https://catsebastian.com/the-queer-principles-of-kit-webb/) by Cat Sebastian in a safe and welcoming environment. Make new friends who share your passion for books and connect with fellow LGBTQ book enthusiasts.

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.

June is Fantasy month! • The book we will be discussing is The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab. (determined by votes from May Book Club. Message me your e-mail if you'd like a free digital copy of the book) • This event will be at the Dublin library (Room 3). 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. Please try to update your attendance if anything changes so we have an accurate head count for print outs and snacks :)

Want to see your work shine and put your pride on display? Then come to July's Creativity Circle! We will be making simple Suncatchers with tissue paper! Seats and supplies limited! Come while you can for as long as you like! Westerville Public Library in Meeting Room D.