Now is the time to start planning to create or lay the groundwork for a new stitch or craft group for the fall. When something is missing from your life, you may not be aware that a local group already exists, or maybe it's time for you to put in the legwork to make one.
Running a local group isn't that hard when the group isn't structured too hard. We have a set time weekly; if you show up, great; if not, it's okay too. We don't collect money; we hang out and stitch.
If you are within a distance of Michaels Stores or Joann Fabrics and Crafts, they may be able to lend you the space. Our local stitch group has been meeting for six years, and our local Michaels Stores is our spot.
We also have a private group on Facebook for local members where communications may happen, such as a message from Michaels and crappy weather, and people should stay home.
For fun, you can do theme ideas, maybe a Halloween costume thing, or on Wednesdays, we can wear pink. Make the group fun.
We have blackout dates when we are not allowed to use the classroom, such as Black Friday Cyber Sales, when the store uses the class for online orders and possibly Boxing Day Sales, where the class is used for storage. So we cannot interfere with the store's operations.
We sign a contract with Michaels to use the room. Essentially, we leave it the way we find it. It's not hard. It's always clean when we arrive.
We meet on Wednesdays from 6 pm to 8:30 pm. Some people come in a bit earlier, and usually at 6:15 pm, everyone has arrived. Some people will leave earlier than others as well.
One of our members brings in tea. Others bring in desserts. No one is required to do that but we've become friends. It's a highlight midweek.
We selected Wednesday Evenings because it's a clear schedule for our local Michaels, whereas weekends are off the table because there may be birthday parties. However, if there was a birthday party on a Wednesday Night, we would be asked not to show up, so the class is available for the birthday party. We understand that and it's okay.
Talk to your local store(s).
I also belong to the local Miniaturist of the Valley and meet up monthly in a local studio that hosts us at Freedom Miniatures in Kentville, Nova Scotia. Shelley Acker, owner, is an avid miniature and opens up her studio. This isn't my group but I am a member and love it. Where there's a hole, someone usually fills it with something fun.
So get creative and open your mind to possibilities. Be the leader if one doesn't exist.
Several knitting and stitch groups are going on where we live most of the week. Our group is one of many.
You could meet up in other places, such as a community centre or something. Just check with local places to see what is possible.
Debra says
Hi there….Can anyone join your new minas stitch group at Michaels on Wednesdays? I might really be interested in the fall to attend….i am a beginner crocheter. Debra
Mikey says
For sure... the door is open. 🙂