The art activity taking over our Instagram feeds
The word ‘tufting’ might not have made its way into your vocabulary yet, but this summer will change that. Why? Because tufting is this year’s newest – and coolest – handicraft hobby.
So, what exactly is it? Tufting is a textile activity where art and creativity converge, letting you explore your artistic side by designing custom-made rugs using different threads, yarns and fabrics. A brilliant activity for all age groups and skillsets, both kids and adults can let their self-expression flow and create a textile masterpiece with their own hands to brighten up their home. As well as unleashing your artistic side, Tufting is also incredibly therapeutic, so it’s a great activity for those wanting to slow down or embrace a little mindfulness this summer.
TuftingTime has three locations across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, hosting different classes and workshops, as well as birthday parties. Whether it’s sneaker-themed, cartoon-inclined, all about animals or your own design entirely, your handmade rug will be the perfect result of some excellent self-expression.
Want more hands-on hobbies to see you through summer? Try these…
CERAMICS: THE GREAT POTTERY SHOWDOWN
Fancy a new vase or to replace that cereal bowl that got smashed? Instead of buying new, why not head to The Mud House Studio in Al Quoz and make one yourself? This fun ceramics studio lets you express your creativity with clay whilst moulding a new masterpiece, from a custom-designed decorative tile to a whole new set of tableware. The beauty is that everyone from absolute beginners and hobbyists to kids and seasoned potters can be a ‘clayer’. There are loads of different classes and workshops to choose from – such as hand building and wheel throwing to pots, slabs and coiling – running throughout summer. So, grab your apron and get your clay game on.
Aspiring potters can book classes here, too:
Dubai: Okaceramics.com
Abu Dhabi: Manaratalsaadiyat.ae
Abu Dhabi: Abudhabipottery.com
PADEL: SWING YOUR WAY THROUGH SUMMER
Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock, you can’t have escaped the hype about the fastest-growing fitness sport in the world, aka Padel. With brand new courts popping up all over the city – including plenty of indoor centres, hello AC – summer is the perfect time to pick up a racket. Similar to tennis in terms of scoring, Padel is played on a smaller, enclosed court and follows slightly different rules. Whilst mastering the game requires technique, strategy and athleticism, there’s a reason this fast-paced sport is so popular: it’s both fun, social, provides a great full-body workout, and is a fantastic way to stay active even through the sticky summer months. There are plenty of places to play across the Emirates, but the World Padel Academy is a great place to start, as it has 43 Padel courts across the UAE, and coaches on hand to help you perfect your Padel skills.
Practice your Padel skills here:
Dubai: Thisisthelob.com
Abu Dhabi: Letspadelacademy.com
Sharjah: Sbapadel.com
SCUBA DIVING: BECOME A LICENSED DIVER
With a quiet(er) few months on your hands, perhaps now is the time to get your PADI license?
And in Dubai, you can learn to dive in the world’s most unique underwater experience at Deep Dive Dubai, with different beginner-level courses perfect for newbies. Spread over two or six days, with both theory and practical sessions, the PADI Scuba Diver Course is perfect for those wanting to get a diving certification but don’t have time to complete the open water course, or for those just wanting to dip their toe in the water, so to speak. A sunken city awaits!
Learn to dive at these destinations:
Abu Dhabi: Abudhabimarine.ae
Fujairah: Alboomdiving.com
Ras Al Khaimah: Aljazeeradivecenter.com
