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Welcome to swan&paper

A calm and inspiring creative escape in Amsterdam

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Small groups for individual support so you will receive lots of personal guidance

Beginner friendly, all levels are welcome

Live demonstration, step-by-step guidance, hands-on practice, it is important to me that you can follow the workshop and walk away with a result you are happy with

All materials provided, including pencils, pens, rulers, watercolors, brushes, erasers, pencil sharpeners, practice paper and final papcer, and cut-out shapes

The workshops last 3 hours

Language: English

Location is the beautiful Amsterdam Flower School: Fagelstraat 64, 1052 GG Amsterdam

Hands-on help for beginners with cut-out shapes and templates

Coffe, water and tea included

What former participants say

"I loved the location and setup, the group size, and how clearly you explained the basics - like shapes, how to use the pencil, and more. I also really appreciated how you guided us throughout the workshop while still giving us the freedom to follow our own creative style and tastes". 

Linda

"Lovely materials, people, teacher, experience"!

Stefania

"Gathering together to do creative activities in a thoughtfully curated environment, I really enjoyed the workshop".

Julia

"I loved getting to meet new people. As mentioned before, the shapes concept blew my mind and I loved that little „aha“ moment. It was also so great being exposed to a new form or art. My husband has watercolor markers, but I found the pencils far more familiar to work with".

Michelle

What other participants say

"Lovely materials, people, teacher, experience"!

Stefania

"I loved the location and setup, the group size, and how clearly you explained the basics - like shapes, how to use the pencil, and more. I also really appreciated how you guided us throughout the workshop while still giving us the freedom to follow our own creative style and tastes". 

Linda

"Gathering together to do creative activities in a thoughtfully curated environment, I really enjoyed the workshop".

Julia

"I loved getting to meet new people. As mentioned before, the shapes concept blew my mind and I loved that little „aha“ moment. It was also so great being exposed to a new form or art. My husband has watercolor markers, but I found the pencils far more familiar to work with".

Michelle

About me

I am Swantje and swan&paper is my illustration studio, where I specialize in fashion, beauty, lifestyle, & children's illustration. 

 

My illustration journey began over ten years ago and I was lucky to collaborate with leading brands like Bvlgari, Douglas, Gucci and Burberry for creative projects.

 

I  work as a live fashion illustrator at events, and I have found great joy in sharing my passion for illustration through teaching workshops. I love helping others create a beautiful and unique artwork of their own. 

Everything you need to know

Do I need any drawing or painting experience?

No. The classes and workshops are suitable for all experience levels, including complete beginners, unless it states they are specifically for advanced skills. Please check the description of each class or workshop.

What materials are included?

All art materials are provided for in-person classes and workshops, including watercolor paper, pencils, brushes, and paints, so you do not need to bring anything. For online classes, materials are not included, and you are welcome to use whatever art supplies you already have at home. Recommended materials will be shared in advance, but there is no need to purchase anything specifically for the class.

How long is the workshop?

The in-person workshops run between 3 and 4 hours, online classes about 2 hours.

What will we create?

You will learn how to sketch and paint a fashion illustration from a pencil drawing to add color.

What age group is the workshop for?

Adults and teens (high school and older) are welcome.

How many spots are available?

Spots are limited to ensure personal guidance. In-person classes and workshops are held in small groups (maximum 10 participants). Online classes may have a larger number of participants, depending on the session.

Where does the workshop take place?

Online classes are given via Zoom, in-person workshops at Fagelstraat 64, 1052 GG Amsterdam (Amsterdam Flower School) unless stated otherwise.

Is the workshop refundable or transferable?

Bookings are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, you are welcome to transfer your place to someone else or use your booking for another class or workshop, subject to availability and with advance notice.

What if I cannot attend after booking?

If you cannot attend the booking last-minute it can be transferred to another person or another workshop date if agreed in advance.

Will you take photos during the workshop?

Yes I will take photos and videos, but you can opt out and I will not share any content showing your face. 

Can I purchase a spot for someone else as a gift?

Yes, you can, simply book under their name or your own and send me a message via the contact form on the website.

Are drinks or snacks included?

Coffee, tea and water are included for in-person workshops

Is the location accessible?

The workshop location in Amsterdam is close to Jordaan and central station. Parking spots can be available but not guaranteed.