For the love of Lambeth

Take a trip to South London with us to learn all about Craft Forward, a Community Interest Company established in 2020

This project is designed to provide accessible, creative experiences suitable for everyone, regardless of their skills and background. They are aiming to disrupt the current elitism within the arts and crafts world, and open creativity to all by re-defining arts and crafts through workshops that value wellbeing and connection over results and technical achievements.

SLOW AND STEADY

“We think of arts and crafts as smaller, valuable actions that contribute to the community’s growth and that can tackle bigger social issues,” said company director and textile artist Elena. “We are big fans of slow-making and slowthinking, focusing on the importance of making by hand, taking your own time with your thoughts, and going against fast structures of production.”

Last winter Craft Forward distributed 19 blankets – help them to set a new record this year!

HOW TO HELP

The primary focus of Craft Forward is giving back to the local community in Lambeth. While workshops take place all year round, every winter for the past three years they have been making blankets for people experiencing homelessness in their area. If you would like to contribute, just knit or crochet 20x20cm (7½x7½in) squares using any stitch pattern and DK, aran or chunky yarn and post them to Craft Forward, 3Space International House, 6 Canterbury Crescent, Brixton, London SW9 7QD. The team would also be very appreciative of any yarn or finished blankets that you can spare.

Tell us about yourself…

I am Debbie, the designer/maker behind Wee

Yarn Designs. I graduated from

Ulster University in Belfast where I studied fashion and textile design, specialising in constructed textiles. I design and create knitted accessories, with ranges for adults, children and babies. In 2015 I discovered the Dorset button and soon became hooked! As well as designing a range of Dorset button jewellery, I also facilitate workshops in this fascinating, heritage craft. I like to think that my designs exhibit a clear contemporary edge while still acknowledging the use of traditional, handcrafted skills.

What can knitters find at your online shop? Baby knits, adult accessories, woven wall hangings and Dorset button jewellery. My Dorset button making kits are especially popular as are the ceramic yarn bowls – a must have accessory for any knitter! I run Dorset button workshops and attend craft fairs throughout Northern Ireland.

What are your highlights for 2022?

This year I have been experimenting with new baby accessories and an advanced Dorset button workshop to celebrate the bicentenary of the craft – 400 years from cottage industry to heritage craft! I am excited to be getting back to a full programme of workshops after the restrictions of the past few years.

Where can we find out more?

Visit www.weeyarndesigns.com, email me at debbie@weeyarndesigns.com or follow us on Instagram (@weeyarndesigns), Facebook (@ weeyarndesigns) and Twitter (@designsyarn).