Did you know that scrabble was invented in 1931 by an unemployed architect? It was quietly played by just the inventor and his friends until 1948, and now it’s the world’s best-selling word game. But when did you last play? We now have scrabble sets available to play in our Riverside Cafe. So whether you have a game with old friends, new friends or people you have only just met, this much loved game is sure to keep you captivated.

The NCCD Youth Forum are a group of young people who meet every Thursday to explore craft and design, take part in artist led workshops and be a voice for young people at the centre. Each season they plan an event to celebrate, promote and share their creative ideas inspired by the exhibitions at the NCCD. To get involved email us at learning@nationalcraftanddesign.org.uk or simply pop along to the next session. Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook/com/pages/nccd-youth-forum

Join Jonathan Korejko for this 'pulp painting' workshop and learn how to make handmade papers from recycled materials. You will use stencils and biscuit cutters to create fantastic patterns, which are colourful, personal and unique.

Join artist Phil Bowman as he leads a second series of life drawing classes this season. As an essential ingredient in developing skills of observation and drawing these sessions are perfect for beginners and practiced artists alike. Models will vary each session and a range of materials will be available for use. If you would like to use something specific please bring along your own supplies to avoid disappointment. A limited number of easels are available for use.

Our annual event is back! Join us on Saturday 22 June for a celebration of all things textiles. Come along and take part in a range of make and take workshops and gallery activities led by contemporary designer/makers, community groups and the Framework Knitters Museum. You can also see a range of demonstrations from spinners, weavers, knitters and more! So, whatever your age, whether you’re an absolute beginner or accomplished knitter, crochet addict, felter or weaver pop along and see, experience, learn.

Join London based animator, illustrator and games designer Luke Whittaker and Graphic paper artist Sarah Bridgland for this unique and creative workshop. Working with Sarah you will learn how to create your own paper graphic leaves, which will then be animated using special effects software with Luke. The results from this workshop will be screened at the NCCD on Sunday 20 October as part of artsNK’s bi-annual festival ZYGOTE.

Join us as we open our 10th birthday show ‘Growing’ and celebrate a decade of The National Centre for Craft & Design. From 11am—4pm, Navigation Wharf will be full of artistic creativity offering lots of opportunity for everyone to see, take part, learn and experience and celebrate all that is craft and design.

Are you a budding designer or maker? Are you filled with design ideas with nowhere to record them? If this sounds like you come along to this session and learn how to design and make your own sketchbooks, notebooks or diaries, perfect to record whatever you see, experience and learn. Personalise your sketchbook with a custom fabric cover and fastening using collage, stitch and appliqué.

Join digital artist Jason Wilsher-Mills in this popular workshop and develop your skills in design and new media.

Join designer/maker Stella Harding and learn how to make your own dynamic 3D woven spheres using techniques drawn from Stella’s own contemporary basketry practice and brightly coloured canes. During June—September Stella is exhibiting in two exhibitions; Beauty is the First Test and Growing where she has been recognised for demonstrating excellence and innovation throughout her practice.

Join Milliner Emma Yeo for this exclusive one day workshop which will see you become a designer for the day. The workshop will begin with the opportunity to discuss and explore Emma’s past collections. Responding to a design brief you will use a variety of visual references to develop a bespoke design. This will then be transformed and constructed into your own sculptural paper headpiece. Emma Yeo is a rising star in the world of millinery. She combines cutting edge technology with sympathetic craftsmanship to create sculptural adornments that effortlessly evoke an organic aesthetic. The use of fine, laser-cut wood is Emma’s growing signature style. During June—September Emma is exhibiting in Growing where she has been recognised for demonstrating excellence and innovation throughout her practice.

A watch, learn, make and play workshop with the Babbling Vagabonds, exploring the craft of shadow puppetry and story making. Learn all about shadow puppets, what they are, how they work and what they look like. Design and make your very own puppet before working on a story to bring your shadow puppet to life.

The NCCD Creative Careers event has been designed to provide you with practical information and advice regarding the range of careers available within the craft and design industry. You will hear stories and advice from recent graduates and emerging and established designer/makers working in a range of industries, as well as having the opportunity to take part in practical sessions to develop your own skills.