Our Widenham residents value and uphold traditions that we grew up with such as needlework, craft, knitting and crochet. We’re re-introducing the joy of craft and we welcome new Widenham residents to join in the fun.
A rich heritage spanning generations
The tradition of craft embodies a rich history of skill, creativity, and cultural expression that is passed down through generations. It’s not just about the physical creation of items but also the preservation and transfer of knowledge, stories, and practices. Crafts vary from textile arts, like knitting and weaving, to woodworking and pottery. Each carries its own significance and aesthetic value.
We fondly refer to craft as a hobby, however, when these skills were first developed, it was before the industrial age. Knitting was used to make clothes, toys and household accessories – as was crochet. To be well-versed in craft and craftsmanship was to be self-sufficient – particularly growing up on farms or rural areas away from the urban city centre. Those who excelled in crafts were sought-after for their talent and well-respected in the community.
Introducing the Crafty Chicks
At Widenham, we’ve got a group of ‘gals’, called the Crafty Chicks, who have a yarn of a time doing craft together. Newcomers are always welcome and it’s a fun way to get to know the community and have a chat. There’s a long list of projects and skills that are always on the go, from knitting to sewing, charity projects and community events.
Learning new skills
A new initiative popped up in June and a group of ladies got together to learn crochet. We couldn’t be more thrilled as our Widenham community is all about residents voicing their opinions and taking the initiative to participate in the community. Each day is a new chapter and there is no time like the present to seize the day and learn a new skill.
Crochet, interestingly, uses one needle to hook and gracefully intertwine yarn to create a myriad of items, including blankets, socks, jerseys, toys, hats and doilies, tea cosies, and mats or coasters for the table. The feedback has been spectacular. Our fabulous ladies in their 70s are having a blast learning crochet for the first time. “It is such fun,” says one of the members. “ We are a merry little bunch with a really great teacher.”
The therapeutic benefit of crochet
Crochet has a number of health benefits from helping to improve focus and hand-eye coordination to relieving daily stress. It’s also an act of mindfulness and personal expression, where the rhythmic motions and focused attention can be therapeutic. Besides, creating something from scratch always leaves you with an overwhelming sense of satisfaction. Read up on the top 10 health benefits of crochet here.
Craft in our modern times
The great thing about craft is that it has a long history where each culture has added their own traditions to it, and it is currently being revived as an excellent hobby for a new generation. In modern times, there’s been a resurgence of interest in crafts, often as a counterbalance to our digital and mass-produced era. People are gravitating towards crafting not only as a hobby but also as a sustainable practice that promotes slower, more intentional living. This renewed interest helps keep traditional techniques alive while innovating with new styles and materials.
As we embrace these traditions, we also adapt them to our current lives, proving that old skills can find new relevance and joy in our modern age. Whether it’s through participating in charity projects or teaching a grandchild the patience of piecing together their first knitting project for school, the residents of Widenham are active bearers of this craft legacy. Their passion ensures that these valuable skills are not forgotten but are instead passed on with love and care to the next generation.
The social fabric of crafting
In Widenham, every loop, stitch, and weave is a reflection of both individual creativity and collective memory, making the village not just a place to live, but a place to thrive creatively and connect deeply with one’s roots.
Our craft sessions are more than just a pastime; they’re a celebration of heritage and a testament to the joy of making. As some of our lively ladies will tell you, learning to crochet has been a delightful journey of stitches and stories.
So why not join them? Our crafting days are not just about stitches and patterns; they’re about forging friendships and finding a shared sense of purpose. Whether you are knitting a scarf for a grandchild or sewing quilts for a local charity, the value of these moments extends beyond the crafts themselves – it’s about the connections made and the stories shared.
Grab your knitting needles or your sewing kit and come join us. You’ll find that in our community, every thread counts and every member brings a unique colour to our vibrant tapestry of life at Widenham Retirement Village.
