'The literary world's answer to Joe Wicks, not too shabby!'
- Angela Docherty, novelist
Find a little directionLaura provides fun and sparky creative writing workshops and one-to-one sessions for writers from all backgrounds and experiences - both online and in person.
Each workshop is tailored and designed to meet the specific needs and interests of participants. Sessions are responsive and sensitive to the development of all writers present. Here are a few examples of the bespoke workshops and one-to-one sessions we've done before. |
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Strathkelvin Writers: Sep. 2022 - Finding the Poem (funded by the Scottish Book Trust)
Laura gave some examples of her own writing processes with a talk on the ways she found ideas for those poems. Then delivered a workshop using a variety of different writing prompts, suitable for prose or poetry writers who might need to liven up their practice with fun and fresh ideas.
Feedback:
I learned that it's normal to feel fear and to procrastinate but just do it anyway. The most helpful aspect of the workshops was Laura's inspirational personality and approach. Her workshop was really excellent. I would absolutely recommend Laura’s workshops to people. She is knowledgeable, experienced, honest and engaging. She inspires and motivates with simple but practical tips and advice.
Laura read the room well and the structure was well balanced between listening and writing activities. I particularly enjoyed that the 'break' invited us to go outside with the knowledge that a related task would follow. We returned invigorated. It has given me more confidence to start writing poetry.
I learned to try new things, take writing risks and consider new ways of finding creativity and making associations. The most effective aspect of the workshop was thinking about the idea that making mistakes aids creativity. I thought the workshop was perfect and different from anything our group has done before. Laura has a refreshing way of delivering content and she was encouraging, natural and engaging.
Q: What advice/suggestions would you offer Laura to help her improve her workshops in the future?
A: Stay being just as warm, welcoming and supportive, especially to shy writers, as you were in the workshop you delivered for us.
I learned that by taking one word and really thinking about it, you can come up with many ideas, that you can juxtapose ideas and go off track to create a poem. Laura’s enthusiasm shines through.
Feedback:
I learned that it's normal to feel fear and to procrastinate but just do it anyway. The most helpful aspect of the workshops was Laura's inspirational personality and approach. Her workshop was really excellent. I would absolutely recommend Laura’s workshops to people. She is knowledgeable, experienced, honest and engaging. She inspires and motivates with simple but practical tips and advice.
Laura read the room well and the structure was well balanced between listening and writing activities. I particularly enjoyed that the 'break' invited us to go outside with the knowledge that a related task would follow. We returned invigorated. It has given me more confidence to start writing poetry.
I learned to try new things, take writing risks and consider new ways of finding creativity and making associations. The most effective aspect of the workshop was thinking about the idea that making mistakes aids creativity. I thought the workshop was perfect and different from anything our group has done before. Laura has a refreshing way of delivering content and she was encouraging, natural and engaging.
Q: What advice/suggestions would you offer Laura to help her improve her workshops in the future?
A: Stay being just as warm, welcoming and supportive, especially to shy writers, as you were in the workshop you delivered for us.
I learned that by taking one word and really thinking about it, you can come up with many ideas, that you can juxtapose ideas and go off track to create a poem. Laura’s enthusiasm shines through.
Individual Writing Support - Examples and Testimonials
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If you'd like to discuss a tailor-made solution for your aspiring writer or writing group, contact me to discuss ways forward: laura@figmentcreativity.com
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I have been working with Laura for quite some time now and I would highly recommend her to any budding writer. Laura is very professional in her approach and works hard to keep you on track, regardless of how far off you wander! She is not judgemental, nor critical just supportive and always on hand if you are struggling. If you are considering someone as a tutor, mentor or an editor then I would definitely employ Laura’s services. - Paula |
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Alison
Background Alison had written the first draft of a Historical Fiction novel. She was unsure where to go next. She contacted us for an initial overview developmental edit. What We Did Read over Alison's novel twice, making style,character and plot suggestions, and gave structural and stylistic advice. 4000 words of advice. Met Alison to discuss feedback. Results More confident now about the next steps to take, Alison is now editing her novel. |
John
Background John had written and illustrated an alphabet book for children. He contacted us for editing and publishing advice. What We Did provided John with an ISBN, advice on lay-out, colour, editing and printing. One-to-one tutorials on Amazon store set-up and Kindle publishing. Results A highly original, engaging and attractive book for young children, published and available now! John now illustrates for other writers, including for Figment Book's Wellspring. |
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Kenny
Background Kenny had an idea for a non-fiction motivational book, based on his experiences. What We Did Met with Kenny once and discussed his process and potential blocks. Follow-up communication via e-mail and messenger. Results After one meeting, Kenny has now written over 40,000 words of his book and has asked for future meetings and editing support. |
Paula
Background Paula had an idea for an autobiography/self-help book. She was seeking advice on how to get started. What We Did regular and flexible meetings, process coaching discussions, feedback given. Laura then typed up and gave feedback on the first 20,000 hand-written words. Results Increased confidence, a regular writing practice set up, a first draft has been nearly completed now and is being edited. |
After finally finishing my first novel, I felt overwhelmed at the prospect of editing it and was aware that there was a lot to do, but I didn't know where to start. Laura's editing service was fantastic - and very reasonably priced in comparison to other similar services.
The best thing about Laura's approach is her ability to show you how to put things right. She gives very clear examples and has a real skill for teaching - her enthusiasm and professionalism are excellent. Now I can press on and get the book polished, knowing I'm going in the right direction. Highly recommended.
- Alison MacDonald
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I would like to thank you for all the help you have given me. The scratchings I had when we first met are now truly starting to take shape since you started to mentor me. Since our last meeting I have completed over 40 thousand words on my book project - without your input I would not even have started. I now have direction, organisation and, most importantly, belief in myself! - Kenny
For businesses, organisations and writing groups:
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The Butterfly Project
Background The business wanted to reinvigorate their website and make sure their copy was concise, professional and engaging. What We Did We received the test-website address and took notes on improvements that could be made. We then met with the owner of the business and looked over the website together. Laura then edited the copy and made suggestions about the structure of the pages on the website. Another phone consultation ensured that all copy was accurate and approved. Results: A honed, easy-to-navigate, professional website with engaging copy and call-to-action buttons. |
Largs Writers
Background Having experienced Laura's adjudication and lecture at a Falkirk Writer's Circle event, they asked Laura to come deliver a workshop on short story writing and then judge their competition. What We Did Visited with the group, facilitated some fascinating discussions on what a short story is. The writers then submitted their short stories, which Laura gave feedback on in the second meeting. Winners, runner-ups and highly commended were praised and a commentary given in the second meeting. Results: A wide variety of short stories submitted, a widened understanding of the possibilities in short stories, especially what to leave on the margins. A fun and engaging experience for all, a mutual appreciation society and a long-lasting friendship established. http://www.largswriters.co.uk/?m=201701 |
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