Afghan and Syrian Textile and Art Workshop

Workshop for Afghan & Syrian women and children- open to all. Design and decorate your own summer bag through art and stitching.
About this Event

Join us for a welcoming and inspiring creative workshop for women and children, created especially for Afghan and Syrian communities, and warmly open to all.

In this special session, we will explore the richness of Afghan and Syrian cultural traditions through painting, textiles, and simple hand-stitching techniques. Participants will create their own small summer necessity bags, beautifully decorated using fabric paint, patterns, and embroidery — no experience needed.

You will be guided step by step to design meaningful patterns inspired by traditional Afghan geometric motifs and Syrian floral designs. Participants will paint and personalise their bags, then add simple stitching details using needle and thread, creating both a practical and meaningful handmade item.

Through this process, we will reflect on themes of home, identity, creativity, and everyday life, while also celebrating the colours and energy of summer.

This is a relaxed and supportive environment where you can:

• Learn new creative skills (fabric painting, basic stitching, textile decoration)
• Make your own personalised summer bag for everyday use
• Spend quality, creative time with your children
• Connect with others in a calm, welcoming space
• Express yourself through colour, pattern, and handmade craft

A special opportunity:
Artworks and finished bags created during the session can be presented in a community display or exhibition, celebrating culture, creativity, and shared voices.

This is a meaningful chance to:

• Celebrate Afghan and Syrian cultural heritage
• Build confidence through creative expression
• Create something useful, personal, and beautiful

Participants are welcome (but not required) to bring small pieces of fabric or materials from home to include in their bag designs.

No art experience is needed. You are free to work at your own pace and in a way that feels comfortable to you.

We will also share tea and create a gentle space for connection, conversation, and belonging.

All materials and refreshments will be provided.

Facilitated by:
Monika A. Lenard – Community facilitator with 20+ years’ experience supporting women and families in multicultural settings. Her work focuses on safety, dignity, and creative expression.