What started as a desire to teach crafts to her sister soon flourished into an in-demand series of weekend workshops for graphic designer, restaurant owner and crafter Alessandra Lanot.
She devotes her time to creating hand-carved stamps, which she uses on postcards, gift-wrapping and canvas totes, watercolor typography and jewelry.
She also holds workshops. Dubbed “Crafternoons,” they get fully booked hours after they’re announced online, with wait lists already in place for next month’s workshop. Super talks to Alessandra about her love for workshops and why you should sign up, too.
How did you get started?
As a kid, I would always ask Santa for craft materials. When my titas and lolas asked me what I wanted for my birthday, I would always ask for paper. When I was 5, I took one-on-one arts & crafts lessons with my neighbor who was an art teacher.
How long did it take you to learn each craft?
You can learn most crafts in minutes, but it’s mastering it that takes lots of time and practice.
What other crafts would you like to get into?
This year, I really want to learn the traditional Philippine crafts like basket-weaving.
What do you enjoy most about doing crafts?
I like the entire process of making, and of course, that feeling when you’re able to say that you made it yourself.
How long does it take you to finish a project?
It depends, but most of the crafts that I make take up about an hour of my day.
Where do you get your materials?
All crafters are materials hoarders. I shop in markets and in Divisoria. I also get my supplies online and on trips abroad.
Create a workspace where you’re allowed to make a mess.
Who are your crafting idols?
Martha Stewart and her empire
What websites do you visit for inspiration?
Check hashtags like #crafts and #diy on Instagram!
How did you get started on workshops?
I started teaching arts and crafts way back when I was still in high school. My sister wanted to learn art and I decided that instead of teaching just her, I could invite the kids in our neighborhood. Together with my cousins, I started Art Adventures, a mobile arts and crafts workshop, and that went on for about 8 years. We taught workshops every summer in different neighborhoods, and then during the year, we would offer our services to corporate clients.
What workshops do you offer?
Crafternoons are informal one-day workshops, but to provide some sort of structure, I teach some basic techniques in the beginning, and then during the latter part, allow everyone to craft on their own, mingle and make friends.
What is the general class size per workshop?
Workshop size ranges from 12 students to 30 students.
Who conducts the workshops? Where is it normally held?
I personally teach all these workshops. I try to mix up the venues a bit so we can accommodate people from all over the metro. I hold workshops in Pipino Malingap, Studio SnR in Ortigas, and Fully Booked in Bonifacio High Street.
What is inclusive in the workshop fee?
The workshop fee includes all materials and snacks.
Can anyone take the workshop? Is there an age limit?
There is no age limit, but there is a minimum age requirement. For smaller workshop sizes, I can accommodate kids as young as 5-9 years old, only because you need to be more hands-on in teaching them. Otherwise, anyone of any age is welcome to the workshops.
What is your favorite workshop? What is the most popular workshop?
My favorite workshop is the watercolor class. It’s also the most popular. Rubber-cut stamping is fun also, but I while I teach, I get so jealous of everyone carving, that I want to sit down and craft with them, too!
What made you decide to create crafting workshops?
I want to promote the love for handmade crafts. Crafting is a great escape, and it can be a form of meditation. Crafternoons are also a great opportunity to make friends with like-minded people.
