Deco Gecko Decor Crafting Classes
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WHO IS DECO-GECKO?
 “There are many things in life that will catch your eye, but only a few will catch your heart…pursue those”.

“ I would describe my décor style as simple, uncluttered and fresh with clean lines, using afro-ethnic, botanical, natural and classical forms – from kitchen to kiddies – Christmas to childrens’ rooms.  I like to experiment with blending colours and painting techniques, products and processes. One’s particular style also develops as you practice, and you will find  the more you experiment the more confident you become. The most important thing is to ENJOY YOURSELF! To hand make something is very fulfilling, therapeutic and a wonderful breath of fresh air away from the daily hum-drum routine of life. One can create something beautiful without having any formal, complex techniques to follow….. your mind roams free, showing infinite ways of expressing one’s self.  Anyone, no matter what age or level of creative ability, can and will enjoy crafting"

To tell you a little of myself and my crafting journey., let me introduce myself.

I am Tina Schilling, Deco-Gecko Décor Crafts and Workshops,  freelance teacher and “creative experimentalist” from Durbanville in Cape Town.  I love to dabble, experiment, and research through “hands on trials”  with as many craft products on the market as possible to see if they can be assimilated into my workshops. I teach a wide range of crafts and décor items from various craft shops, businesses and “just for fun” parties from your home.

My crafting journey began very simply! I had never considered myself “arty” in any way.  In 2001 I saw the most beautifully finished,  decoupaged coaster set in a box made by a friend who was by no means artistic (by her own admission !!) . It was “love at first sight” and made me curious as to what  the decoupage technique involved! 
So off I went to my local craft shop, and two classes in basic wood decoupage and serviette decoupage in 2002 put me firmly in the crafters corner – with great enthusiasm and a messy diningroom table, I started to make “goodies” for home, and then orders for friends and family followed.  Not satisfied with just decoupage, I became a “crafting experimentalist” and  “played” with mosaics, woodcraft painting, and lastly mixed media (which is my current favourite technique).   I was constantly on the look out for new crafts, products and processes, and  I loved to use the knowledge gained to inspire others – so began my next step - teaching.

In 2012 I collaborated with Dala/KV Art, a “true blue” South African art and craft material manufacturer in Cape Town, and wrote an 11 project craft book – most decoupage with a little mixed media thrown in – Do It In A Day.



I often sell handmade items at local monthly craft markets from time to time, and I teach a wide range of crafts and décor art to various craft venues in Cape Town. In addition I offer customized workshops to the corporate sector for team building classes or from your home as fun, as-you-like-it classes with friends and family.

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