A couple of weeks ago I was delighted to be invited down to my local Coopers department store to cut the ribbon for their new craft department. I walked down the red carpet as the crowds lined the streets and cheered me on (!) .... okay well that's not quite true, it wasn't as glam as all that, but my little craft club 'The Cottage Crafters' were there in full attendance because we are over the moon about the new craft department, as will the rest of our local crafters be when they discover it for themselves.
Craft shops are few and far between in our area, and many craft shops struggle to remain open in todays climate. While many people do most of their shopping online, there are still a large percentage of crafters that prefer to browse in shops. Not only is this because they like to see the quality of whatever it is their buying, but also a lot of crafty ladies don't use, or have access to the internet. So keeping our local craft shops in business is really important for the crafting community, as crafting is more that just a frivolous hobby for many people, it is a form of therapy, and it brings relaxation and purpose to so many lives.
Coopers were really keen to make sure they supplied all the things your average crafter would need so they popped down to our craft meeting to get our feedback and find out what it is we would like to see on the shelves. I have to say they've done a fantastic job. They now have a wonderful selection of wool, sewing accessories, fabrics, craft kits and magazines ... with much more on the way. So thank you Coopers, you've made a little group of crafty ladies very happy indeed.
JM x
What a pretty craft department! I'm with you! I love shopping in a store rather than online for my craft supplies. (I'm a "toucher" so I like to be able to see in person what I'm buying!) The thing I love most about England decorating? Buntings! My fave fing! 😉
ReplyDeleteHaha ah Karen, it's your 'fave fing!'... me too, I love a bit of bunting ;-)
DeleteAwesome! More stores should realize the value of crafting. I think if kids were able to see wonderful, colorful craft supplies in person then they would be more interested! I love this!
ReplyDeleteThanks Kerry :-) and yes I couldn't agree more!
DeleteYou are so right about the benefits of craft hobbies Jodie. Learning to knit was the best thing I did when my sons were young, enabled me to keep an eye on them at all times but to also engage in some sort of artistic productivity. Working with your hands is wonderful therapy to 'free' the mind from worries etc. My local carpet shop (of all places) stocks loads of craft supplies which I found odd but it's brilliant. Lovely pics of you, as ever :)
ReplyDeleteAw thanks Susan, I especially love the snap of my crafty ladies :-) Is so true, really does free up the mind ... so many benefits to crafting as well as it bringing people together. Sitting with my crafty ladies is such a lovely part of my week.
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