How to be a good craft workshop

After 14 years of experience in the craft market I think I am in a position to describe what an excellent craft class looks like. The first thing is a good environment that will consist of a good work table accompanied by a good chair.

The table must be 70cm to 80cm linear per student, with a place in front for the placement of gadgets necessary for work in general. The chair that I generally do not use to work, but to rest, must be comfortable with a backrest and without arms. Better stackable plastic than collapsible wood. For example, I use narrow tables with one on the side so that the students can distribute the front space with the possibility of placing material in the center of the table.

If possible, the classroom must have access to natural light, especially if classes are given in the morning or during summer afternoons, natural light is always appreciated as it gives us a real idea of the colors already In turn, it allows us to rest our eyes for better results and avoid fatigue. If you need artificial light, it is best to use white light combined with yellow light, that will deceive your eyes and we will have a result similar to the natural one. If the room has a window, it is always nice to have a view of the street or a garden. That always helps to create the desired good atmosphere. It relaxes and distracts the view to be able to have the view of the passers-by. I particularly like to have an idea of time and not feel locked out of reality. When I work in my workshop, I feel that my life continues parallel to that of everyone else, because I don't miss any of the changes, if it rains I find out and if the sun rises too.

It is also important to have a common thread that leads us to relaxation. I think it's important to have access to music. The music must be calm and harmonious, preferably instrumental music. It is important that the sound and volume is adequate. Not too soft so that the ear has to make too much effort to hear, nor too loud so that the people around have to raise their voices to be heard. Music should be an addition and not a hindrance.

We need a water source for crafts. A large sink to wash brushes, hands, etc. If possible, we will also have access to hot water because that makes it easier for us when we have to open cans of paint, varnish and facilitates the good cleaning of the brushes. A dish soap and towels for drying hands. A clean bathroom is essential and if we have two better.

As for the students, they should bring an apron to protect their clothing. You should also not miss in your material for personal use, a roll of kitchen paper, a package of baby wipes that are always so useful when working. A good pair of scissors, sandpaper, rags, pencil, ruler, cutter and tracing paper.

In short, the most important thing about the craft class is that both the teacher and the students contribute a good load of good humor, good coexistence and a great desire to learn and share.