5 tips for creating standout workshops as a creative with Patricia van den Akker from the Design Trust (podcast episode)
If you’ve ever thought about teaching creative workshops – or you already run them and want to make them truly unforgettable – this episode is packed with wisdom you won’t want to miss.
Jessica Rose sits down with Patricia van den Akker from The Design Trust, author of 'Teaching Creative Workshops in Person and Online', to share five powerful tips for designing workshops that stand out. Patricia’s approach goes far beyond simply showing people how to make something. Instead, she encourages us to think deeply about why we teach, what kind of experience we want to create, and how we can market our workshops in a way that connects emotionally with the right students.
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In this episode you’ll discover:
How to uncover your true 'why' for teaching (and why it matters).
The difference between teaching a project vs. teaching a skill – and when each works best.
Why the little details – from brownies to background music – can make or break the workshop experience.
How to market your workshops with emotion so you attract your ideal participants.
Creative ways to expand beyond traditional workshops to grow your income and impact.
The 5 top tips (listen to the episode to find out more)
Tip 1: Start with Why
Teaching isn’t just about earning money - it’s about sparking curiosity, building community, and keeping creative skills alive. Patricia suggests writing down your reasons for teaching and asking “why is that important to me?” until you uncover your core values. Knowing your *why* makes your workshops more meaningful and helps you stand out.
Tip 2: What Do You Teach?
Workshops can focus on projects (great for beginners and one-day sessions) or skills (better for longer courses), but Patricia encourages going deeper. Think about what people truly gain - confidence, self-expression, or time for themselves - and consider weaving in themes like sustainability or history. She also advises not to give away your most unique skills but instead share broader knowledge and creative approaches to avoid undervaluing your expertise.
Tip 3: Create an Experience
Workshops are more than teaching - they are experiences. From the website to the welcome, practical comforts like coffee, parking, and a friendly atmosphere often matter as much as the content itself. As the teacher, you’re the curator of the energy and environment, and a safe, supportive space makes participants feel confident, valued, and eager to return.
Tip 4: Promote and Market with Emotion
Marketing should highlight the feelings and benefits of attending, not just the technical skills. Use clear, keyword-rich titles, share practical details, and think locally - most people won’t travel far. By setting boundaries and clearly communicating what your workshop offers, you’ll attract the right students and create the best group experience.
Tip 5: Think Beyond Workshops
Workshops can open doors to many other opportunities, from teaching in schools and museums to running online programs, events, or memberships. You can also expand your reach through collaborations, media, or even writing your own book. Whatever direction you take, ensure it connects back to your deeper 'why' so your teaching remains authentic and fulfilling.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your teaching practice, this conversation is packed with practical ideas and inspiring insights. Plus, Patricia gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her new book, which features Jewellers Academy as a case study.
Listen now to learn how to design workshops that light a spark in your students and in you.
Want to learn more?
Check out Patricia's book ‘Teaching Creative Workshops In Person & Online’. You can get it from any book shop, Amazon, Waterstones or directly from the publishers Bloomsbury:
https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/teaching-creative-workshops-in-person-and-online-9781789941784/
About Patricia
Patricia van den Akker is the Director of The Design Trust, the online business school for designers, makers & other creative professionals, providing online memberships, workshops and courses on creative business planning & time management, teaching creative skills, marketing & selling, costing & pricing.
For over 25 years she has been a creative business adviser, trainer & coach, working with 1,000s of creatives in the UK and abroad. She regularly teaches at art schools such as the Royal College of Art and Central St Martin, and works with many of the craft fairs and trade show organisers like GNCCF and Top Drawer as well.
She is known for her practical, honest and can-do approach to creative professional development. In February 2025 her book Teaching Creative Workshops in Person & Online was published by Bloomsbury.
For more details see www.thedesigntrust.co.uk and @TheDesignTrust
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