Dorset Buttons Workshop at St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery, Lymington

Discover the traditional craft of Dorset button making at St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery in Lymington on Thursday 15 October 2026.

Led by weaver and button maker Coral Newton, this relaxed two-hour workshop introduces participants to the fascinating heritage of handmade Dorset buttons.

You'll learn about the history behind the craft before having a go yourself. During the session, you'll create one or two buttons to take home, with all materials and tuition provided.

You'll also have the opportunity to take away instructions and materials so you can continue making more buttons after the workshop.

At a Glance

Where: St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery, Lymington
Date: Thursday 15 October 2026
Time: 10.30am–12.30pm
Workshop: Traditional Dorset button making
Tutor: Coral Newton, weaver and button maker
What you'll make: One or two handmade Dorset buttons
Materials: Provided
Experience required: No previous experience stated
Spaces: Limited
Booking: Advance booking recommended

Discover the Traditional Craft of Dorset Button Making

Dorset buttons have a long history as a traditional English craft, and this workshop offers the chance to discover the technique for yourself.

Rather than simply watching a demonstration, participants will create their own buttons under the guidance of experienced maker Coral Newton.

You'll also hear about the history behind the craft, providing context for the techniques you're learning.

It's a lovely opportunity to slow down, work with your hands and discover a heritage skill that has been passed down through generations.

Make Your Own Dorset Buttons

During the workshop, Coral will provide the tuition and materials needed to get started.

Participants are expected to make one or two buttons during the two-hour session.

The focus is on learning the process and developing enough confidence to continue independently afterwards.

You'll be able to take your finished creations home, making this a particularly satisfying creative workshop.

Continue Making at Home

Your Dorset button making doesn't have to end when the workshop finishes.

There will be an opportunity to take away instructions and materials for additional buttons.

You can practise the techniques you've learned, experiment with further designs and continue developing your new craft at home.

For anyone interested in traditional crafts, textiles and handmade creations, this could be the beginning of an absorbing new hobby.

Meet Weaver and Button Maker Coral Newton

The workshop is led by Coral Newton, a weaver and button maker who will introduce participants to the techniques involved in this traditional craft.

Having an experienced maker guide you through the process means you'll be able to ask questions and get help as you create your first buttons.

All tuition is included as part of the session.

Good to Know Before You Go

The Dorset Buttons Workshop takes place at St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery in Lymington on Thursday 15 October 2026.

The session runs from 10.30am until 12.30pm.

All materials and tuition are provided, and participants will make one or two buttons during the workshop.

Spaces are limited, so booking in advance is recommended.

The supplied information does not specify accessibility arrangements. Contact St Barbe directly if you have particular access requirements before booking.

Creative Workshops and Things to Do in Lymington

If you enjoy discovering traditional crafts, this workshop is a great addition to the calendar of things to do in Lymington.

St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery hosts a variety of exhibitions, talks and creative workshops throughout the year.

You can also explore more craft workshops, adult classes and New Forest events on What’s On Hampshire.

Whether you're searching for a new hobby or simply something different to try, there are plenty of creative ideas among what's on in Hampshire this autumn.

FAQs

When is the Dorset Buttons Workshop?

The workshop takes place on Thursday 15 October 2026.

Where is the workshop?

It is being held at St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery in Lymington.

What time does it start?

The workshop runs from 10.30am until 12.30pm.

Who is leading the workshop?

Weaver and button maker Coral Newton will provide the tuition.

What will I make?

Participants will make one or two traditional Dorset buttons during the session.

Are materials provided?

Yes. Materials and tuition are provided.

Can I continue making buttons at home?

Yes. There will be an opportunity to take away instructions and materials to make further buttons.

Do I need to book?

Advance booking is recommended because spaces are limited.