I’ve lots of work on this week, but that’s not a complaint as I like to be busy.I have been crocheting a 6 metre fishing net for the Preston Youth Theatre group to use in our upcoming performance ‘Ghost Net’, which comments on disused nets cluttering our oceans. Evelyn Rose and I have been busy making costumes too, to turn the performers into fish. These will all be used at Making a Mark this Saturday in the Flag Market.I’m also working on a couple of commissions (one I can’t talk about yet) and one for Lancashire Science Festival to be held at Uclan at the end of June.Beyond that, I have started to clean up a local lonk fleece (not too greasy, but full of vm), with the idea of incorporating it into the Dye-versity project.I’m also a bit obssessed with jellyfish right now. I think there’s something brewing, but not sure about it right now. Watch this space.
Preston Mela Prep
I’m thrilled to be taking part in Predton Mela 2019!On behalf of Oxheys, I am leading a project called ‘Dye-versity’. We have sourced wool from Lancashire, grown on t’hills, and I am dyeing it with traditional natural dyes to represent the cultures and communities in Preston, particularly South Asian.Some of the dyes I have picked out are madder, turmeric and of course indigo, which is enjoying a bit of a comeback at the moment. I might expand this selection, but there are so many colours available from those 3 we may not need to!The yarn is from my friend Kate at Northern Yarn in Lancaster, and I was impressed at the texture. It’s beautiful, and I may have to buy more to knit with.We have already had an Outreach session where we invited residents of a home to weave squares to make a larger piece of art.
Easter bonnets 2019
Wow! What a difference to last year, when we were working in a tent full of mud!
Yesterday saw a huge crowd gathering in Avenham and Miller Parks for traditional Easter egg rolling.
Evelyn and I were there to run the Easter bonnet decorating workshops, which was again very popular.
I was amazed by the creativity children (and adults!) showed, and there were some fantastic creations.
Craft group FAQ
Wow! Thanks to everyone for showing your support for the session starting on Monday (see here). I’ve been busy answering emails about it and I thought I’d add a FAQ just in case you have questions.
Q. Do I need to bring anything?
A. It’s up to you – feel free to bring your knitting, crochet, or other craft project to work on or get help with. We will have kits for sale and things for you to have a go at, so don’t worry if you forget.
Q. What exactly happens at the group?
A. I’m not quite sure. I’m making it up as I go along, according to what the people who come want. I imagine it’s going to be a bit like a knit & Natter or craft & chat, but with slightly more guidance.
Q. But is it a formal class?
A. No, I don’t think so. More a series of taster sessions. Probably.
Q. Who leads it?
A. I do, I have been teaching crafts since 2011 and have a Level 4 PTLLS teaching qualification. I am a member of Oxheys and have been involved in various community projects for Preston City Council and Lancashire Adult Learning.
Q. Is it all about wool?
A. I don’t know, what do you want to do? I’ve taught myself lots of crafts and if I don’t know how to do something I probably know someone who can help.
Q. Do I have to come every week?
A. No, but you can if you want.
Q. I might be late / I have to leave early, is that OK?
A. No problem.
Q. Can I come to both sessions?
A. If you want, but you’ll need to pay for both sessions.
Q. Can I just turn up or do I have to book?
A. It’s only a small cafe, so it’s a good idea to book, especially if you are travelling. It’s ‘exclusive’ 😉
Q. How much is it?
A. It’s £10 per session, including tea or coffee and a slice of homemade cake. Additional drink and snacks are available at Cafe prices.
Q. I’m vegan / eating gluten free etc. Is there anything for me?
A. No worries, we have a range of options, including soy milk for drinks if you prefer.
Q. What if I book and pay but suddenly can’t make it?
A. Please let me know as soon as possible. Unfortunately for events I can’t offer a refund unless I can fill your space.
Q. I home school – can I bring my child?
A. Yes, that’s fine. Please bear in mind that you can’t leave your child and they must be under your supervision at all times. Some activities might not be child friendly, in which case I can offer something else.
Hope to see you soon! Drop me a message to book a place.
New craft group launch!
Updated 30th December to include cake and drink option and to change the times.
UPDATE: Thanks for all your support with this project, whether you have emailed me, Liked it, Shared it or told friends. I appreciate it immensely. X Here are the new FAQ.
A brand new, informal craft group in Preston!
Venue: Ravenous (cafe on Cannon Street), Preston
When: Mondays, 10am – 12pm
Cost: £10 per session including tea or coffee and scrummy homemade cake
No need to book (but a good idea if you are travelling to attend)
Aimed at the dabbers, non-experts and people who want to have a go at different crafts and arts, this will provide a friendly, informal, safe space for exploring your creative side in a variety of mediums, with some guidance.
I’m following your lead here – you decide what you want to learn, or if you want to come along and enjoy a delicious drink and crack on with your own project, that’s fine too. Each week I’ll be collecting your ideas for future groups.
Low on inspiration? I’ve got your back – I’ll bring along materials for knitting, crochet, weaving and more, and some kits for purchase. Fancy a bargain? I’ve negotiated a 10% discount at the Yarn Box on Preston Market for people who book (ask me for your discount card)
Thirsty? The cafe is closed to the public on Mondays so we’ll have the place to ourselves, and I’ll be offering hot and cold drinks and delicious cakes made by the Ravenous owner, Louise!
Also, to top it off, so many people have supported me with this journey and it feels right to give something back – so I’ll pledge to donate 10% of my profits to charity.
I hope you can join me for one of the sessions!