Questions I'm Often Asked About My Memory Box Workshops

If you're thinking about joining one of my Memory Box workshops, you may have a few questions before booking, and that's completely natural. Whether you're wondering what kinds of keepsakes to bring, if you need to be artistic, or whether the one-day or two-day workshop is right for you, I hope you'll find the answers here.

Having now helped more than 50 people transform their treasured keepsakes into beautiful Memory Box artworks, I've noticed the same questions come up time and time again. So I thought I'd gather them all together in one place.

If your question isn't answered below, please don't hesitate to get in touch. I'm always happy to chat and help you decide whether one of my workshops is right for you.

#1 – Does it matter if my collection isn't colour coordinated?

People ask me this all the time! Although my own artwork is often colour coordinated, most people don't collect sentimental items in a particular colour. Instead, their collections are a wonderful mix of objects that remind them of a special person, place, occasion, or chapter of their life.

Having now helped more than 50 people create their own Memory Boxes, I can honestly say that only around five have worked within a single colour palette. The beauty of the workshop is learning how to bring seemingly unrelated objects together into one balanced, thoughtful composition that tells your story.

#2 – I'm not very crafty. Does that matter?

Not at all. Most people who come to my workshops tell me exactly the same thing! I'll be there to give you as much or as little guidance as you'd like throughout the day.

I'll show you the techniques I use to create a balanced composition and the safest ways to attach different types of objects, but there are no rules about what your finished piece should look like. This is your Memory Box and your story. My role is simply to help you tell it beautifully.

#3 – How many items should I bring?

For my one-day workshop we work on a 28 cm square board, and I usually recommend bringing around 10 to 20 keepsakes. It's always better to have more than you think you'll need, as having options makes it much easier to create a balanced composition.

For example, if you're hoping to include a photograph, I'd suggest bringing two or three different options. Sometimes one simply works better with the colours, shapes and textures of the rest of your collection.

#4 – Will my keepsakes work together?

Almost certainly!

One of my favourite parts of the workshop is helping people spot connections between objects they never thought belonged together. It's amazing how a collection of seemingly unrelated keepsakes can become one coherent artwork that tells your story.

#5 – What if my keepsakes are really precious?

This is a really important question, and something we always discuss at the beginning of the workshop.

If an item is particularly valuable, fragile, or something you may wish to remove from the artwork in the future, we'll choose the most appropriate fixing method for that object. Often this means using fine wire rather than adhesive, allowing it to be removed later if needed. Every object is different, and we'll decide together on the safest approach.

#6 – Can I bring sentimental items from someone I've lost?

Absolutely.

Many people come to my workshops with keepsakes collected after the loss of a loved one. Creating a Memory Box can be a wonderful way to celebrate their life and preserve those memories through the objects they treasured.

Many attendees have told me they find the process incredibly comforting, and that creating something beautiful from those keepsakes helps keep precious memories alive in a very tangible way.

Of course, Memory Boxes don't have to be about bereavement. People also create them to celebrate weddings, childhoods, holidays, hobbies, family traditions and many other special moments.

#7 – Which workshop is right for me?

I now offer both one-day and two-day workshops in my Hastings garden studio.

The one-day workshop is ideal if you're new to Memory Boxes or have a smaller collection of keepsakes. We work on a handmade 28 cm square board, which typically holds around 10 to 20 items.

The two-day workshop is designed for those who would like a little more of a creative challenge. You can choose a bespoke backing board up to A2 size, giving you the opportunity to work with a much larger collection of keepsakes and create a more ambitious piece. The extra day also allows us to work at a slower, more considered pace.

#8 – How many people are at each workshop? Can I come on my own?

Of course! Most people come on their own, although you're very welcome to bring a friend or family member if you'd prefer.

My one-day workshops have a maximum of four participants, while my two-day workshops are limited to just two people, allowing plenty of individual guidance throughout.

It's always lovely to see complete strangers arrive in the morning and leave chatting like old friends. Quite a few even swap numbers to keep in touch afterwards!

#9 – What happens during the day?

We begin the day with a cup of tea or coffee while I introduce my artwork and explain how the workshop will unfold.

I'll then talk you through the tools and materials we'll be using before demonstrating how I approach arranging a collection of keepsakes. I'll explain what I'm looking for in terms of balance, colour, spacing and storytelling.

Then it's over to you.

The morning is usually spent exploring different arrangements and deciding which objects to include. I always encourage people to have a break for lunch before making any final decisions. Coming back with fresh eyes often makes all the difference.

In the afternoon, we move on to attaching your objects securely and bringing your Memory Box to life.

One of my favourite things about these workshops is hearing everyone share the stories behind their collections. There's always plenty of conversation, laughter and encouragement, making it a wonderfully relaxed and inspiring day.

#10 – Is lunch included?

Yes! One of the joys of hosting workshops from my Hastings garden studio is being able to provide a homemade lunch, much of it using seasonal produce from our own vegetable garden. Tea, coffee, cakes and biscuits are also included throughout the day, and I'm happy to cater for most dietary requirements.

#11 – What if I don't finish in time?

Most people complete their Memory Box during the workshop.

If you're creating a particularly detailed piece or simply like to work more slowly, don't worry. I'd much rather you took your time than rushed the finishing touches. You'll leave with the knowledge and confidence to complete your artwork at home and I will supply you with a kit of the materials you’ll need.

#12 – Why are the workshops now in Hastings?

Since moving to Hastings, I've created a dedicated garden studio surrounded by my vintage collections, overlooking the vegetable garden and down towards Linton Gardens.

It's become such a peaceful and inspiring place to work, and I love being able to welcome people into the very space where I create my own artwork. The slower pace, beautiful surroundings and small workshop groups make it a really special creative experience.

#13 – Can I buy a workshop as a gift?

Absolutely. Memory Box workshops make wonderful gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, retirements and other special occasions.

My beautifully wrapped workshop gift vouchers can be redeemed against any future one-day or two-day workshop in Hastings. Each voucher also includes a handmade Curious Collection lavender bag, making it a thoughtful gift that's a pleasure to give as well as receive.

 

Still have a question you would like answered? You can send an email to pippa@pipparyan.com and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

Feel like you would like to join me for a Memory Box Workshop, you can see all the upcoming dates for the one-day workshop here and my two-day workshop here.