Fire, Food, and Ferments: Join Us for a Creative Season at Common Knowledge
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there's no better time to hunker down, embrace the season, and learn something new. At Common Knowledge, we’re inviting you to spend your autumn and winter sharpening your DIY skills and crafting abilities in the warm glow of our Lodge fire. With heart-warming drinks in hand, great food on the table, and good company all around, these courses offer more than just knowledge—they offer an experience. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned craftsperson, we’ve got a range of cosy courses for you to choose from.
All our courses can be purchased as gifts here.
Here’s a little taster of what’s on offer:
Seasonal Permaculture
Weekend course: 14 & 15 September, 15 & 17 November
If you’re interested in growing your own organic food, it’s time to get your hands dirty. If you’ve been dreaming of growing your own food at home. This course is for you. Permaculture is a holistic design philosophy and ecological approach that seeks to create sustainable, resilient, and regenerative systems for humans, agriculture, and ecosystems. Permaculture’s three core ethics of Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share, fit perfectly with the Common Knowledge ambitions of living a truly sustainable life.
Introduction to Furniture Design & Making
Weekend course: 21 & 22 September, 02 & 03 November, 07 & 08 December
Ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into the world of woodworking? Join us for a hands-on course where you'll design and craft your very own solid hardwood stool. This isn’t just about making a piece of furniture—it’s about exploring the art and science behind creating something truly unique.
We’ll guide you through the ins and outs of ergonomics, aesthetics, and the techniques you’ll need to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re dreaming up a one-of-a-kind stool for your home or just eager to learn more about furniture design, this course is perfect for anyone looking to master the skills needed to create custom pieces that you can be proud of.
Dry Stone Walling for Beginners
Weekend course: 21 & 22 September
Learn the ancient skill of traditional dry stone walling and leave with the ability to carry out repairs and new builds yourself. If you are the custodian of some ancient stone walls that need maintenance, of want to build a new wall that is sympathetic to the beautiful cultural history we have of building dry stone walls then look no further.
Build School - Level 1
Week long course: 23- 27 September
Join us for our last Build School Level 1 of 2024, so whether you’re planning a new build or some work on your current home, creating a tiny home, dreaming of renovating a stone cottage, want to improve your DIY skills and knowledge, or simply fancy the idea of learning alongside others for a week outdoors, this is the ideal introductory course for you. All of the skills learned on-site will be relevant and transferable to your own individual projects.
Build School - Level 2
Weekend course: 04 -06 October
Leave the tools at home and join us for an in-depth weekend retreat designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to confidently oversee your own self-build project. We believe that to manage a self-build project, you must first understand the fundamentals of construction and the building process. For that reason Build School level 2 is only open to those who have completed Build School Level 1 and anyone collaborating with them on an upcoming build.
Introduction to Fermentation
One Day Course: 05 October, 16 November
Join us on an exciting journey into the world of microbes, plants, and fungi with llewyn máire from Savage Craic. In this course, you'll explore fermentation, food preservation, and the science behind gut health, all while connecting with new people and ideas. Expect hands-on fermenting fun, learning about food medicine, reducing waste, and how cultural practices shape our foodways. You'll leave with your own ferments, new skills, and a deeper understanding of food as a connection to place, community, and tradition.
Introduction to Steel Fabrication and Welding
Weekend course: 05 & 06 October, 02 & 03 November
Ready to dive into the world of metalwork? Our two-day welding course is perfect for beginners and is designed to make metal fabrication both accessible and enjoyable. You'll learn how to safely join metal while gaining practical skills that could save you money on future projects, whether you're building or repairing. If you’re curious about welding or looking to pick up a new hobby, this is the course for you
Build School visits Portugal
Week long course: 10 - 17 October
In an exciting collaboration, Jardim de Mira, a pioneering reforestation project in Odemira, and Common Knowledge have joined forces to offer a special Build School Edition. The partnership was created to explore and develop green-wood construction techniques using Eucalyptus timber from Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park
NEW DIY Kitchen Cabinets
Weekend course: 12 & 13 October
In this two-day intensive workshop, learn to design, build, and repair your own kitchen cabinets. Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading an existing kitchen, this course equips you with the skills to create a beautiful and functional space, tailored to your needs. This course is ideal for anyone wanting to take control of their kitchen renovation. Whether it’s a full remodel or a simple upgrade, this course gives you the tools and knowledge to achieve your dream kitchen.
DIY & Repair at Home
Weekend course: 19 & 20 October, 16 & 17 November
Looking to boost your DIY confidence? This weekend workshop is just for you! Perfect for complete beginners, it’s your chance to tackle those household projects you’ve been putting off-whether it’s hanging a shelf or fixing a squeaky cupboard door. We’ll guide you through the basics of common repairs and upcycling in a friendly, hands-on setting.
Introduction to Sewing
Weekend course: 19 & 20 October
This course is a great fit if you’re tired of tossing out clothes just because they’ve got a small tear or if you’re itching to make something one-of-a-kind that you won’t find in any shop. Whether you’re keen to master your sewing machine, craft custom pieces, or give your wardrobe a stylish makeover, this weekend workshop is your chance to dive in. You’ll pick up handy skills that’ll not only save you money but also help cut down on waste, all while boosting your confidence to create and repair your own textiles.
NEW Weave a Scarf
Weekend course: 09 & 10 November
This course is perfect for anyone who's ever been curious about weaving and wants to create their very own handmade scarf. Whether you're making it for yourself or as a special gift, this workshop is a fun, hands-on dive into the world of weaving, blending time-honoured techniques with your personal flair. On top of that, you’ll also explore the basics of pattern cutting and clothing repairs, giving you the know-how to mend your favourite clothes and even tailor them to fit perfectly.
It’s a chance to get creative, pick up new skills, and leave with a one-of-a-kind scarf that’s truly your own.
NEW Cook with Confidence
Weekend course: 9 & 10 November, 7 & 8 December - Christmas edition
Join us this winter for a series of cooking weekends at Common Knowledge, led by renowned Ottolenghi-trained chef Ashley Gribben. Designed to bring the world’s flavors to your home, Ash has designed these weekend courses to offer a different cuisine each month. This program is perfect for food enthusiasts looking to enhance their cooking skills in a relaxed environment and expand their kitchen repertoire.
Be sure to book our December edition if you want to learn how to master a perfect Vegetarian Christmas feast that is so good no one will even miss the ham at the table!
Wood Turning for Beginners
Weekend course: 16 & 17 November
Open to complete beginners, this course will equip you with the skills and confidence needed to begin, or continue your journey in wood turning. Throughout the course the participants will be able to work on a few projects of their choice. You can expect to work through a couple of projects as you sample both spindle and faceplate work.
Even if you have worked with a lathe before, all are welcome to hone their skills without having to invest in a woodturning lathe just yet.
A Weekend of Willow Weaving
Weekend course: 30 November & 01 December
In this workshop, hosted by West Country Willows, participants will delve into the ancient craft of basketry, learning the intricate techniques that transform supple willow rods into two functional and beautiful baskets.
You’ll start day one with creating a versatile fruit/bread basket, discovering the art of weaving, randing, and adding finishing borders. Under the guidance of Kate and Alan, participants discover the secrets behind crafting this essential household item, honing their skills as they weave each strand with precision and creativity.
On day two, you’ll dive into the crafting of a shopper basket with an elegant handle, an indispensable accessory woven with love and expertise. Participants explore advanced weaving methods, perfecting their technique to construct a sturdy and stylish shopper.
NEW Natural Dyeing
Weekend course: 30 November & 01 December
This November learn how to create beautiful natural dyes, stains and inks for use with textiles and in the home with Wicklow based designer and natural dyer from Mexico, Malú Colorín. If you want to learn the ancient skill of sourcing colour in the wild, and how to process natural materials to add beautiful organic tones to your textiles and other home projects, join us for a two day immersion in natural dyes, inks and stains. Leave with the knowledge, confidence and skills to start or continue your natural dye journey at home. You will also leave with a hand dyed bandana or tea towel, your own wood stain, a jar of ink and a recipe booklet to take your learning further.
Why Learn at Common Knowledge?
Learning a new skill is more than just ticking off a to-do list—it’s about personal growth, creativity, and the joy of making something with your own hands. At Common Knowledge, we believe that the learning process should be warm, welcoming, and full of camaraderie. That’s why all our courses take place in a relaxed environment where you can enjoy a drink by the fire, share stories with new friends, and tuck into hearty meals after a productive day of crafting.
So, if you’re ready to cosy up this autumn and winter, and learn something new while making memories, join us at the Common Knowledge Centre. There’s no better place to sharpen your skills and warm your soul!
Why not make this autumn and winter your season of learning? We can’t wait to see you.
