Pride Pin Rug Hooking Workshop

Show your colours this Pride Month with the heritage craft of rug hooking! In this workshop, students will learn to create a durable rug hooked Pride pin using easy-to-access tools and materials. Students will learn the basic rug hooking techniques and get hands-on practice with instructor support, as well as a quick history lesson on the role of heritage craft in the design of the original Pride flag. Embroidery hoops, hooks, pins, backing material, and recycled fabrics in all the colours of the rainbow will be provided.

About the instructor: Al Cusack (he/they) is a lifelong learner and self-taught artist whose main teacher is the concept of “let’s see what happens!”, supplemented by mentorships, workshops, friendships, and YouTube. Growing up on both sides of the Bay of Fundy and moving throughout Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, Al is currently based in Sydney, Cape Breton, as a creative and community services worker. His writing, fibre art, and illustration plays with themes of belonging, relationality, joy, and narrative. In February 2026, he presented his multidisciplinary CBRM Creative Catalyst Project exploring his relationship with his late grandmother through the enduring shared language of craft. He has taught workshops on writing, craft, and creative expression in five provinces.

Monday, June 1, 6-8PM
Cape Breton Centre for Craft & Design
322 Charlotte Street, Sydney

Please note: spaces are limited. Email chichi@capebretoncraft.com to register.

Craft Week workshops will be offered free or on a pay-what-you-can basis because we believe everyone deserves the chance to make, learn, and connect through craft. If you’re able to contribute, your support helps us continue offering opportunities like this. If not, we’re still so glad you’re joining us. If you’d like to contribute, you can send an e-transfer to info@capebretoncraft.com.