The beadwork class in Dakar runs over a one-month cycle, with two orientations: bag-making, to make five or six bags, or handmade beadwork. Depending on the option, materials are provided or supplied by the student.

Four options, two orientations

The class comes in four options, all over a one-month cycle:

• Bag-making, in two versions: a cycle of 6 bags or a cycle of 5 bags.
• Handmade beadwork, in two versions: without materials (the student brings their own beads and tools) or with materials (materials provided).

It is therefore not an afternoon introduction, but learning that unfolds over a month, with a concrete goal: to leave with finished pieces. The session takes place indoors, in Dakar.

Choosing your option

The choice rests on two criteria. The first is the project: a batch of bags, more ambitious and longer, or freer beadwork, to create jewellery, accessories or decorations. The second is materials: the “without materials” options suit those who already have their beads and tools, and the “with materials” options suit those who are starting out and want to find everything on site.

A one-month cycle calls for regularity: you move forward piece by piece, correct your movements, and gain speed and precision. Beadwork is a work of patience, done seated, with fine threads and small beads, and it rewards attention to details such as the choice of colours and the order of the patterns.

If you live in Dakar, it is a creative hobby that builds over time, and may lead to a small creative or selling activity. If you are visiting, a one-month cycle assumes a long stay or settling in for a while.

Learning in Dakar

The class takes place in Dakar, a city where craft is everywhere, between markets, workshops and seafront. The Plateau and the Médina remain the easiest neighbourhoods to look for beads, fabrics and accessories.

Extending the creativity

Other craft and skills workshops let you explore jewellery and carving, dyeing and batik bring in textiles, and painting and visual arts broaden the work with colour.