Knowledge is power, creativity is magical. Come and experience the West Kootenay Women’s Association and the Nelson and District Women’s Centre’s newest project: Community Threads.
This is an intergenerational program that consists of two parts: free monthly workshops on learning specific skills such as knitting, quilting and embroidery; and free weekly skill sharing sessions where women will mentor each other in textile skills.
Traditionally women taught their daughters and granddaughters how to sew, knit, crochet, weave, embroider and the like. Today, many of women have missed out on these inheritances, and many of these practices are being lost. Many women who come to the women’s centre have expressed a desire to learn to sew, knit or crochet.
Here is a chance to learn and to teach. Imagine making moccasins, learning about natural dyes or creating rag rugs? Have you ever wanted to learn new textile skills? Sign up for a free workshop; bring your mom, your daughters, your aunt and girlfriends.
Got little ones? Let them know and they’ll provide childcare.
Can’t remember something from the workshop or need a bit more explanation? Perhaps you missed the workshop. Come on over to the women’s centre on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., get a cup of tea and receive help with your project.
Sit together with other women willing to mentor you as you practice your new skill. Learn to knit, sew, crochet, spin, weave, embroider, make quilts, moccasins, natural dyes, rag rugs — it’s really up to you. What do you want to learn?
Each workshop is taught by skilled local women sharing their love of the craft.
Every Friday you can come and meet with mentors who can answer questions and help you make progress on your chosen project.
Community Threads can also help if you need some yarn or fabric or knitting needles. Do you have some knitting needles, crochet hooks, fabric, yarn or craft supplies that you no longer need? They are looking for all kinds of supplies that they can pass along to women who need them.
If you are interested in registering for a workshop, or finding out more, call Penny at 250-551-4951 or email penny@nelsonwomenscentre.com. Also contact Penny if you have supplies that you think they could use, or if you are interested in sharing your knowledge by being a mentor, volunteering, leading a workshop or participating.
Nelson & District Women’s Centre is located at 420 Mill Street, overlooking Central School.