Tuesday, 7th June 2011
Our last session proved very successful with two ‘Crafty Corner’ demonstrations taking place, 
teaching members new techniques which were clearly enjoyed.
Miranda demonstrated the ‘Prick and stitch’: a simple technique which requires a pattern to be pricked through card which is then stitched. The great thing about this particular craft is that you really do not need to be an expert seamstress! If you can hold a needle, you can achieve wonderful results.
Everyone attempted the same pattern; a butterfly, and the diverse r
ange of finished cards were astonishing, all as a result of the colour choice of card and thread.
The concentration and focus meant that we ran late and were still working studiously when the caretaker arrived to lock up! This simple, quick method was definitely a big hit!
Our second
‘Crafty Corner’ was crocheted flowers. What at first might have seemed rather fiddly proved not to be too difficult under the guidance of Maria who kindly gave us another crochet master-class and even the most novice of crochet skills achieved wonderful results. Maria has very kindly given us her pattern for the 5 petal flower which is on our website.
We are hoping that we can convince Maria to join us again in the future for more insights into crochet which is definitely a clothing trend in the shops this year.
Damien continues his art classes with feedback from his ‘students’ being very positive. While tailoring these lessons to the requirements of those attending, Damien has structured the lessons to be a mini course, payable weekly, that takes members ‘back to basics’ and his classes are proving to be very enjoyable. This week Damien’s art workshop will be held in the larger hall along with the rest of the Crafty Affairs group in the hope that we are able to offer them brighter lighting by which to work.
Good News! We have just created our own Facebook page which will help us to get word around that Crafty Affairs is up and running. There is much that is constantly discussed about the security of personal data etc. when using this application but it has to be said that if you do not put personal information on Facebook, then there is nothing to ‘steal’. While some are nervous of using this system, it really is a fantastic tool for keeping in touch with people, wherever they are in the country or indeed the world. Many grandparents are finding this the preferred method of keeping in touch with their grandchildren on a daily basis and if you have broadband access there is no cost involved. It is also a great place for you to put photographs to share with friends and family and you are able to specify who you do or don’t want to see them. Please do consider using Facebook as there is information posted on the Crafty Affairs page which is in addition to our website. Crafty Affairs has produced a Facebook Guidance Leaflet to help you understand that there is nothing to be afraid of in using Facebook. For those of you living in Whitchurch and the surrounding area, Whitchurch has its own Facebook page which you can link to and it keeps you up to date with all the views and news of Whitchurch.
At our next session on the 22nd June, will be the demonstration by Pauline of Soap Bespoke of her soap making techniques. As yet we do not know specially which soaps she will create but these photos are typical examples. The products she produces as a result of the demonstrations will be available for sale at the end of the evening and starter kits will also be available for purchase, so please do remember to bring your money along! With the starter kits, you will be able to make soaps with or without perfume and they make fantastic gifts. Pauline’s products and range can be found at http://www.soapbespoke.com/ and they also have their own Facebook page.
Finally, two reminders for you.
Firstly the Sprat and Winkle Quilters exhibition finishes on the 11th June. Formed in 1980, this diverse, fun group produces 
contemporary and traditional quilts. The exhibition shows the current range of work, including colourful wall hangings, 3D quilt art and vibrant textiles. Open times vary on different days so do check with the Andover Museum (6 Church Close, Andover SP10 1DP) where the exhibition is held before starting out on your trip. Admission is free. Telephone: 0845 603 5635
Secondly, the North Waltham Country Fair is being held this Saturday, the 11th June between1pm and 5pm. Entry is free. It is described as ‘featuring everything from fete stalls and attractions to refreshments, selected trade stalls and fun for all the family in a village setting’. The fete is held at Cuckoo Meadow, North Waltham, Near Basingstoke, Hampshire RG25 2BL Hampshire RG25 2BL. Cuckoo Meadow is accessed next to the village school shown in the picture.
