Home > Members’ Gathering 2026 – Workshops & Oot an’ aboots

Workshops & Oot an’ aboots

Oor Wullie Sugarcraft with Margaret Dick & Anne Howat

Join Margaret & Anne for a sugarcraft workshop. Using modelling paste & ‘bas relief’, a 3D sugarcraft technique, you’ll be taken through step-by-step and learn to create your own 3D version of the cheeky chappy Oor Wullie. 

Please note: Spaces for this workshop will initially be available to new attendees only.

Oot an’ aboot – Dundee’s Discovery Point with Tour Guide Alastair Derrick

Meet at the Discovery Ship for a short guided walk exploring Dundee’s history from the Law to the River Tay. Hear stories of treasure ships, the Tay Bridge Disaster, Captain Scott and the Discovery, William McGonagall’s infamous poetry, and the heroic Bamse the sea-dog. A lively mix of history, humour, and local tales.

Underground City Quay Vaults Tour with DD Tours

Step away from the crowds and descend beneath the streets of Dundee into a hidden network of historic vaults. Tucked below the city and long overlooked by the people walking above, these spaces have spent centuries buried and built over.

Oot an’ aboot – DC Thomson building tour

Step inside the iconic DC Thomson building and discover a world where storytelling, creativity, and innovation have thrived for over a century. Home to some of the UK’s most beloved newspapers, magazines, and comics, DC Thomson has shaped the imagination of generations.

Women in jute talk with Fiona Roberts

Fiona Roberts is a practice-based researcher and interdisciplinary artist. She is currently a PhD candidate at Norwich University of the Arts, where she also earned her Master of Fine Arts. Before embarking on her PhD, Fiona worked as a practising artist for 30 years alongside a career in cultural project management. 

Oot an’ aboot – The Verdant Works

Explore The Verdant Works and journey through Dundee’s jute heritage, explore original mill machinery and atmospheric factory floors, discover the stories of those who powered the industry, experience hands-on exhibits that bring textile production to life, and learn how Dundee became known around the world as the centre of jute manufacturing.

Christmas 3D decoupage card with Nan Middleton

Nan has been a tutor at the last two Summer Schools so we couldn’t wait to have her back teaching SWI members sgain. Learn the art of 3D decoupage to make your very own Christmas Card.

Straw work with Elaine Lindsay

With over 40 years’ experience, Elaine is an expert in straw-work, making items from her workshop in the heart of Aberdeenshire, Scotland. This workshop will take you through the process of making a bookmark & a dragonfly out of straw.

Felted hat pincushion with Maz Thorn

Join Maz for an cosy afternoon session crafting your own felted hat pincushion. Her Fabric Fandangos session in 2025 was loved by all who attended and we are sure this session will go down as a treat for all who attend.

Felt kanashi flower brooches with Joyce Petrie

Learn how to create delicate felt kanzashi flower brooches using simple folding and stitching techniques. This workshop is perfect for beginners and results in a beautiful handmade accessory to wear or gift.

Sashiko taster with Lorraine McCafferty

Discover the calming and creative world of Sashiko, the traditional Japanese art of decorative stitching, in this relaxed and friendly taster session.

Designed as a gentle introduction, this workshop is perfect for complete beginners who would like to have a go and learn the basics in a supportive, informal setting.

Tartan wreathes with Christine Donaldson

This session will guide you through shaping, layering, and assembling the materials to create a stylish tartan wreathe. Perfect for adding a cozy, decorative touch to your home

Patchwork taster with Rosalie Wilkie

Come and join this hands-on workshop and learn how to create two classic patchwork squares: the Rail Fence and the Cathedral Window, with step-by-step instruction this workshop is suitable for all skill levels.

Do your own thing

Prefer to skip the workshop or outing? No problem — use the time to explore Dundee, enjoy the shops, relax in a café, and experience the city your way.

Photo: Dundee One City Many Discoveries

Please Note: Although the workshops have been carefully planned, they may need to be adjusted due to unforeseen circumstances..