Over the past few months Seven magazine has spoken to dozens of Dorset folk who are passionate about what they do, from collecting bottles to making bespoke candles.

But what if you don’t have a passion? Or what if you’re interested in learning a new skill or craft but don’t know the basics?

The Arts University in Bournemouth knows how you feel which is why their autumn and winter 2013/14 offer is broader than ever.

“We know that people are really keen to explore creative subjects but can’t always commit to a long period of learning,” says spokeswoman Carly Marsh.

“We’re the number one creative university in the UK for undergraduate degrees but equally importantly we have one of the highest employability records for our students.”

The University offers more than 50 courses, ranging from creative photography to letterpress printing.

“People can design their own fashion collection, create vintage interiors, or even learn how to make a customised corset,” says Carly.

There are courses in creative writing, make-up for film, television and theatre, and an introduction to prosthetic make-up and silversmithing.

“Our most popular courses are photography, creative writing, drawing and painting, jewellery, clothes-making, screen-printing and millinery,” says Carly.

And they have added new courses including digital sculpting using ZBrush and contemporary felt-making. The university has discovered that many students are using it as a ‘try before you buy’ entry into a university course.

“In terms of undergraduate degrees, the conversion rate is quite strong,” says Carly. “But people also sign up because they need to brush up their skills or they are sent on courses by their employer.”

Some courses are more academic than others but the most important qualification is enthusiasm.

“It’s a great way for people to get out in the evening and meet like-minded people,” she says. “We know through chatting to students that many have made new friendships this way.”

l Aub.ac.uk

One of the university’s most popular courses is vintage-style interiors. Here’s what students can look forward to..

“This course is designed for lovers of vintage and retro styling who are looking for a way to express themselves in their interiors and also gain an understanding of the design styles and lifestyles of the 20th century.

Through a series of demonstrations, lectures and practical projects, you will discover how to use vintage/retro styling and up-cycling to suit you and your home. The course will look at designing a space in both the pre-war style and the post-war style. This course will give you plenty of time and opportunity to look at areas of vintage and retro styling and the chance to put together a design for an interior space of your choice. It will also cover the practical aspects of up-cycling vintage style items for your home.

The areas covered will include:

  • What is vintage? How textiles and furniture differ from decade to decade in the 20th century.
  • Who were the key designers and makers of 1920s to 1980s.
  • Looking at the austerity of the war years; the use of utility clothing and furniture.
  • How the revolution in music, style and design from the 1950s to the 1970s influenced fashion in interiors.
  • Keeping it green – recycling/up-cycling pre-loved items l How to use vintage items in modern spaces for an eclectic feel l Websites, flea markets, vintage fairs – how to recognise and source those special items.”