Creative art studio offers DIY workshops, private parties

A Toowoomba woman is using her DIY skills to teach others to tap into their creative sides through a range of workshops and private parties.

A Toowoomba woman is using her DIY skills to teach others to tap into their creative sides.

Elise Loxley owns and operates Elise Heather Designs which is a textile art studio offering one-on-one or group classes tailored towards the beginner as well as selling unique macramé sculptures, art and home decor, supplies and DIY kits.

She said she was a very tactile and visual person.

“What started out as a creative outlet as a way to bring some peace to my hectic home life, soon blossomed into a creative business,” she said.

“It all started when my sister urged me to open an Etsy store to sell excess artwork. Custom orders followed and people started asking if I could teach.”

Elise Loxley from Elise Heather Designs. Picture: Nev Madsen.

Workshops are held at least once a month at a studio in Wilsonton, with each designed for those who have zero experience with the arts and want to learn the basic skills, as well as for those who just want to create something as a one-off.

All materials are supplied and attendees are taken through the process step-by-step.

Ms Loxley said she enjoyed learning new skills.

“I love to experiment, and it seems to come to me naturally,” she said.

“I’ve formed a strong connection with my hands, and they have the ability to bring life to all the things I have imagined.”

She said it was amazing to see a resurgence in the art scene recently.

“I believe it’s because people are looking for something to do while taking their minds off the pandemic and unscheduled down time leads to people pursuing hobbies,” she said.

“I think it’s fantastic that more people are tapping into their creative side and expressing themselves.”

For more information, visit Elise Heather Designs on Facebook.