When was the last time you tried something for the very first time? No, not a new Netflix series or a new coffee order, something you could actually make with your own hands.
Every 3rd Sunday of every month, ditch the same-old weekend routine and head over to Okapu for their monthly bag weaving class at Provisions Kenya, Migumoini Close, Lower Kabete. It’s fun, creative, and by the end of the day, you’ll walk away not just with memories, but with a stylish bag you made yourself.
What’s Okapu all about?
Okapu isn’t your typical Nairobi hangout spot. They’re a bag-weaving collective that’s preserving the traditional art of weaving while giving it a modern, fashion-forward twist. At their workshops, you don’t just sit and watch; you actually get to color a kiondo mat and receive one-on-one instructions on how to weave a miniature kiondo yourself. Picture vibrant sisal threads in earthy browns, soft pastels, and bold patterns, all being woven into one-of-a-kind kiondos with each bag carrying both style and story.
But as we know, weaving in Kenya has always been more than just a craft; it’s a culture. Traditionally, weaving was a bonding ritual between grandmothers and their grandchildren. As the threads intertwined, so did family stories, secrets, and wisdom pass down gently in the rhythm of the weave. Every bag wasn’t just a vessel for carrying; it became a vessel of memory, heritage, and connection.
Okapu taps into this timeless practice, reminding us that weaving isn’t just about creating something beautiful; it’s about carrying forward a piece of Kenyan identity. Their workshops mirror that same spirit of togetherness, relaxed, welcoming and filled with laughter. Whether you’re a complete beginner or secretly a DIY enthusiast, you’ll find yourself part of a circle that feels less like a class and more like a community. And when you leave, it won’t just be with a bag, it’ll be with a story stitched into every fiber.
Why it’s the perfect weekend plan
Hands-on fun, unlike another coffee date or brunch, you’re doing something, not just sitting around.
Unplug and create, forget scrolling for a few hours, weaving is surprisingly therapeutic.
Something to show off, you don’t just leave with photos, you leave with a handmade bag that will spark the inevitable “OMG, where did you get that?” conversation.
Meet new people, workshops like this attract an interesting mix of creatives, hobbyists, and the just-plain-curious.
What to know before you go
Date: Every 3rd Sunday of the month (Next one 21st September)
Time: Afternoon session from 2 PM-5 PM
Location: Provisions Kenya, Lower Kabete
Charges: Ksh 2,200 per person | Free for kids under 12 years
- You can book private classes for a more intimate learning experience.
- After the workshop, you can purchase extra weaving materials to continue your project at home.
- If you’re bringing kids, let the planners know in advance so they can prepare a child-friendly setup.
- Participants are encouraged to bring snacks and refreshments for a relaxed, picnic-like vibe while weaving.
You’ll be guided step-by-step by skilled artisans who’ve been weaving for years, learning techniques passed down through generations. And no, you don’t need to bring anything, just your enthusiasm and maybe a friend who’s up for an adventure.
An unconventional alternative
Sure, you could go out for lunch, catch a movie, or hit the same rooftop bar you always do, but where’s the story in that? Bag weaving with Okapu gives you something to remember and brag about. Plus, there’s a certain joy in making something from scratch in a world where everything’s just bought and shipped.
If you’ve been looking for a way to shake up your weekends in Nairobi, Okapu’s bag weaving workshop is it. It’s part art, part therapy, and all fun. Come for the creativity, stay for the connections, and leave with a piece of fashion that’s 100% you.
For more unique Nairobi experiences, visit visitnairobikenya.com. our city guide to art, culture, and unforgettable adventures.
