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Newport City Radio – Live Right here, Right Now
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Episode 81: The end
Kym with Kirsty from Nature Makers
Be at one with nature
Creativity, nature and wellbeing are coming together in a powerful way through Nature Makers Newport – a growing creative venture helping people of all ages reconnect with the natural world.
Founded locally by Kirsty, Nature Makers Newport is part of a UK-wide franchise that began in 2019 as a small art group for children. Today, it has expanded to around 20 franchises across the UK, with Kirsty proudly becoming the first Nature Makers representative in Wales.
Creativity in, with and about Nature
Nature Makers is built on a simple but meaningful idea: using nature as both inspiration and material for creative activities. Sessions may take place outdoors, immersed in woodland or green spaces, or indoors using natural materials such as willow, leaves, twigs, conkers and flowers.
Kirsty works with children and adults alike, tailoring activities to the seasons and the needs of each group. For schools, this can include one-off creative sessions linked to nature themes such as wildlife or habitats. For adults, workshops provide an opportunity to slow down, learn a new skill and enjoy hands-on creativity.
From Willow Weaving to Lantern Making
One of the most popular activities at Nature Makers Newport is willow weaving. After completing specialist training earlier this year, Kirsty now delivers workshops where participants create items such as stars, Christmas trees, reindeer and seasonal decorations. Each piece is handmade, with no previous experience required.
Other activities include birch lantern making, pressed flower artwork and Hapa Zome – a Japanese technique that uses natural dyes released by pounding flowers and leaves onto fabric or paper. Seasonal nature play days for children are also a key part of the programme.
The Wellbeing Benefits of Making
Beyond creativity, Nature Makers places a strong emphasis on wellbeing. Research and government strategies increasingly recognise the benefits of connecting with nature, learning new skills and engaging in creative activities.
Workshops naturally encourage social connection, mindfulness and confidence. Participants often arrive feeling unsure of their abilities but leave feeling proud of what they have created. This sense of achievement can be particularly powerful, especially for adults who may not have engaged in creative play since childhood.
Children, meanwhile, bring a fearless approach to creativity – happy to experiment, make mistakes and celebrate the results. That openness is something many adults rediscover through Nature Makers sessions.
Rooted in the Local Landscape
Working with natural materials has also deepened Kirsty’s connection to her local environment. Everyday walks become opportunities to notice seasonal changes, identify trees and rediscover familiar landscapes through fresh eyes.
This awareness is something she actively shares with children, helping them understand what grows locally and encouraging respect for the natural world.
What’s Next for Nature Makers Newport?
As Nature Makers Newport moves into its next year, plans include expanding work within schools, developing creative parties and group sessions, and exploring opportunities such as wellbeing days, hen parties and community events.
Upcoming workshops will continue to follow the seasons, with spring projects likely to include willow hearts, pressed flower frames and Easter-inspired creations.
Getting Involved
Nature Makers Newport can be found on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, where Kirsty shares updates, creative ideas and behind-the-scenes moments.
Workshops and events can be booked via the website:
With its blend of creativity, community and connection to nature, Nature Makers Newport is offering something increasingly valuable – the chance to slow down, make something meaningful and rediscover the simple joy of creating with your hands.