Invite to Crafternoons

JOIN THE CRAFTERNOONERS

Iain Ferguson New Year resolutions may have gone out of style, but many people often find themselves at a bit of a loose end after the hustle and bustle of the festive season. Perhaps this would be good time to take up a new hobby, meet new people or learn a new skill?

All these elements combine every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon when a group calling themselves ‘Crafternoon’ meet at the Lochaber Hope premises in Fort William High Street. Their name is an indication of what happens when they meet, with chat, tea, coffee, cakes and even soup, all the while transforming wool, card, paper, bottles and a number of other materials into fantastic objects.

No prior knowledge or ability with crafts of any kind is needed and what you do is entirely your choice, with expert hands available to guide and assist in any of the many activities you may wish to try.

While some people may think this sounds like something ‘for the ladies’ – nothing could be further from the truth, with men also playing a full role in the club and always welcome to come along, even if only for the company and chat. Age is no limit either.

Crafts are also good for hand and eye co-ordination, as well as carrying out multiple tasks at the same time, keeping the brain not only active but agile and productive. The group are also about to launch a new venture, DK Knits, to help raise money for Lochaber Hope. As is said about sports, it is not the winning but the taking part that is important and the same is true of the Crafternooners where you don’t have to be good at what you do, or produce perfect objects, but just enjoy making them.

Joining is free and being based in the West End of the High Street the meetings are very easy to access, with bus stops in both directions right outside. People come from all over Lochaber, although one member enjoys it so much that they join by ‘Zoom’ from Buckie.

If you feel that the New Year would be a good time to make a few changes or explore new things, a place a the Crafternooner sessions may be just what you need.

The club meets every Tuesday and Thursday between noon and 3pm, with an open invite to come along. More information can be obtained by calling Lochaber Hope on 01397 704836 and ask for Norma Green.