Arts, crafts & workshops

Mat-making workshop

Where: Orkney Creative Hub, Hatston, KW15 1RH

When: Monday 13 May

Cost: £25

Booking required: Yes

Contact: 01856 850176; orkney@rspb.org.uk

How many uses can you think of for an old rope?

Stromness-based craftsman Mark Cook uses his creative skills to turn what some see as litter, into elegant designs that are both attractive and useful: from doorstops and table mats to a whole range of stunning decorations. Come along to this workshop, where you will gain the skills and materials needed to build your own designs.

Not only that, but you will also get that warm, fuzzy feeling that comes with doing your bit for the natural world. Litter dumped in our seas can cause all sorts of damage to the environment. By making use of these discarded materials, you will be helping to maintain the beautiful landscapes that are home to so much wildlife.

Call 01856 850176 or email orkney@rspb.org.uk for booking information.

The Harray Potter Workshop

Where: Fursbreck Pottery, Harray, KW17 2LB

When: Saturday 18 May, 10am-6pm

With: Harray Potter

Cost: £5

Booking required: No

Contact: 01856 771419; info@orkneypottery.co.uk

Visit the Fursbreck Pottery and see how Orkney's very own "Harray Potter" works his magic. You can drop in any time throughout the day. Andrew Appleby has many years of experience designing beautiful ceramics, including crockery, jewellery and more.

You'll also be given a pound of clay with which to design and build your own creation. Whether you want to decorate it with your favourite wildlife or anything else, you'll have plenty of inspiration in the beautiful Orcadian parish of Harray.

Andrew will be happy to finish and fire any completed pieces, before posting them out. Please note, this will require an additional cost.