Werkplaats met houten onderdelen van De Soft Connection Toolbox en rollen gekleurd touw op houten spoelen.

Experience

De Soft Connection Toolbox - Soft Connection Lab

The Soft Connection Toolbox is the tangible outcome of four years of artistic research. The team translated twelve pre-industrial weaving techniques into four universal hand gestures ('Soft Tools') and linked them to modular, playful tools based on Open Structures. Through interactive workshops and actions, this open design system invites the public to build together: the woven structures become a starting point for encounters, imagination and meaningful conversation.

Date
02.10.2026—10.10.2026
Location
Design Museum Gent - Atelier
Audience
Secondary school pupils, School students, Students, Adults, Older adults
Access
Free, no registration required
Language
Dutch, English

Timings

Date	Time
02-10-2026	18:00 – 22:00
10-10-2026	14:00 – 18:00

More about the project

Soft Connection Lab is a research project based in Ghent (KASK & Conservatory of Music) that focuses on the power of making together. Inspired by age-old weaving techniques and the ritual of the maypole dance, the lab explores how hands-on crafts can bring people closer to one another. In a society that often feels distant, the team uses the making process to encourage care, empathy and dialogue. Alongside the creation of an object, building meaningful human relationships is a central aim.

Find more info here.

Close-up van verschillende handen die donkerblauwe en beige stroken materiaal vlechten rond een houten frame.

Workshop
11.10.2026

Learn to Braid - Soft Connection Lab

Rediscover the forgotten craft of braiding with Soft Connection Lab. Learn four basic techniques, relaxing and sustainable. Free, registration required.

Een groep mensen eet en praat samen aan een lange tafel tijdens een communitybarbecue.

Experience
06.10.2026

Community Dinner XL - Nerdlab

Every Tuesday, Nerdlab gathers makers and nerds to tinker, hatch ideas and build together. Come for the food, the vibe and the maker magic. Join in and build!

Experience
07.10.2026—10.10.2026

De wanbetalers - Studio Denkbeeld

In the exhibition De wanbetalers, inclusive atelier Studio Denkbeeld shows and sells work by makers who often can't earn in real life. Art with a sharp edge.

Brandende metalen lamp gericht op een rode baksteen, tegen een achtergrond van lichte gordijnen.

Experience
10.10.2026

Open ateliers - NOOOK, Maarten Masscheleyn, Castor + Amber & Veroniek Roeland

Visit the Open studios at Stadsmakers in Ghent and meet local makers and design labels. Discover work in glass, textile, concrete and reused materials.