Abstract Ink Painting

This colourful, playful workshop introduces participants to abstract painting using acrylic inks on fabric.

Using water and ink together creates beautiful organic shapes and blends, allowing colour to move and mix in surprising ways. The process is guided but intentionally open, meaning every piece created in the session is completely unique.

Participants create their own hand-painted drawstring bag to take home.

The workshop focuses less on technical skill and more on experimentation, curiosity, and enjoying the process of making something vibrant and expressive.

 

What participants will learn...

During the workshop participants will:

  • Learn how to paint with acrylic inks on fabric
  • Explore how water affects colour and movement
  • Experiment with blending, layering, and abstract mark-making
  • Create their own colourful fabric design

Because the technique is simple and intuitive, the workshop works especially well for people who may not normally consider themselves creative.

What the Session Involves

Each participant creates:

  • A hand-painted drawstring fabric bag
  • A unique abstract design created using acrylic inks

Although the paint needs a short time to dry, participants can leave with their bag at the end of the session.

Format & Timing Options

This workshop is very flexible and can run in different formats depending on the event.

Drop-in sessions

  • Ideal for conferences, residential buildings, and large events
  • Participants can take part for 10–20 minutes
  • Works well in foyers or shared spaces

Short seated sessions

  • 30–40 minutes
  • Up to 20 participants
  • Perfect for creative breaks or quick team activities

Teaching Approach & Support

This is a playful, colourful workshop that encourages curiosity and experimentation.

Participants often enjoy watching the inks blend and move across the fabric, creating results that feel both surprising and satisfying.

The process is relaxed and low pressure, making it especially welcoming for beginners or anyone who simply wants to try something creative without overthinking it.

Ideal for...

This workshop works particularly well for:

  • Corporate events and creative breaks
  • Conferences and activations
  • Residential buildings and community programmes
  • Arts organisations looking for a playful hands-on activity

Past Workshops & Experience

I’ve delivered mindful creative workshops for community groups, residential settings, and organisations looking to offer something more considered as part of their wellbeing or engagement programmes. These sessions build on my wider workshop practice, offering a slower, more spacious alternative for groups who want to go deeper.

This format has proven particularly valuable when delivered regularly, allowing participants to return, build confidence, and develop a sense of shared experience over time.

Location & Availability

I’m based in Manchester and deliver workshops across Greater Manchester, the North West, and beyond. Sessions can take place at your venue, or I can help you think through what kind of space would work best.

Advance booking is recommended, particularly during busy periods such as Valentine’s Day, International Women’s Day, Mental Health Awareness Week, and Christmas.

Pricing Guide

I price workshops in a clear, straightforward way so it’s easy to understand what’s included.

  • Workshops start from £160, which covers planning, preparation, and delivery of the session
  • Materials are priced per participant, typically around £5 per person, depending on the workshop and materials used

Final costs may vary slightly depending on group size, format, location, and any bespoke design work, but I’ll always confirm pricing clearly in advance.

If you’re working to a particular budget, I’m very happy to talk this through and suggest options that fit.

Booking & Next Steps

If you're ready to book your Hoop & Fred workshop drop me an email at hoopandfred@gmail.com or use the contact form below. To get the ball rolling and help me plan the perfect session for you, let me know:

  • How many people you're looking to book for
  • Your Location (or if you need help finding a venue)
  • If you have a set design in mind, or a theme you are working with
  • When you are hoping to host the session
Or exlpore more workshop options

Get in touch to book