Knitting, sewing or crocheting – what will your next project be?
A new home for The Thread Counter
Many of you will have noticed that The Thread Counter on the High Street has moved into new premises at the Low Port Centre.
As well as being able to buy your sewing, knitting and crochet materials, The Thread Counter also offers classes to people with a range of skills, from beginner to advanced. If you visit a class, you will likely find enthusiastic crafters working on a variety of projects.
Real stories from local makers at The Thread Counter
Last week, one lady was making pyjamas for her niece, having learnt how to do this on a previous course. She has been coming since she was a beginner but is now more advanced, thanks to Nici’s teaching. “I love coming here,” she said, “I’ve been going through a rough time lately and this is a good distraction.” She also goes to the knitting classes and now loves making socks!
Valerie – six years and still sewing
Valerie has been doing the classes for 6 years and was working on a dress for herself. “I’m small, so everything in the shops is too big. Making my own clothes means they fit me properly. It’s good to get feedback from everyone – they will tell me if something suits me or not,” she said. Valerie also likes the craic and the friendships with the other sewers.
Stella – finding balance through creativity
Stella is making a coat. Coming to one of sewing Nici’s classes is the highlight of her week. She particularly likes Nici’s teaching style which has accelerated her learning and she is now confident to take on more complex projects. In fact, Stella often uses Nici’s teaching style as an example of how to do it! Stella uses her time at the classes to switch off from her stressful job. “It’s an antidote for running around in my work-life,” she said. “I like the social aspect of being here – I can talk to the other people and we have a laugh while.”
Robyn – future textile artist in the making
The other class members refer to Robyn as their “star student” – literally. She is currently studying at City of Glasgow College and wants a career as a textile artist. She started the classes 4 years ago. “Nici’s guidance was great,” she said. “She taught me the skills of the trade, hidden sewing steps which are not so obvious.” Everyone agrees that Robyn is the most creative. She makes Hallowe’en costumes and recently won first prize in a competition run by the Bonnet Makers & Dyers. One of her creations is a bag made from old ties. She is currently making a party dress for herself. She was very shy when she started, but the supportive and friendly environment has helped her come out of her shell and shine.
More than just sewing class – it’s a community
Nici has certainly created a community of crafters, which extends to other, local craft-maker businesses. As well as being an inspiring teacher, she also remembers everyone’s tea order! It is a well-known fact that the tea and biscuits feature heavily at the classes, along with a healthy dose of laughter and a good blether.
“We came as learners and left as friends,” said Valerie. “We love coming here”
“It is great to see more people taking up traditional crafts, but many do not know where to start. We’re here to help” said Nici. “In May, we begin our denim shirt-making class. Included are materials, use of sewing machines and detailed help with your shirt. You source your own pattern so you make a shirt which suits your level of skill.
“For maximum flexibility, there are various pop-in sewing classes where you can bring your own project and I will help you to progress it.”
Join the sewing classes
The Thread Counter may be a great resource for anyone who wants to sew, knit or crochet, but it is more than that. It is a safe, comfortable place where people can meet and socialise at the same time as learning. It is a community. People come to learn and leave as friends.
What will your next project be?
Check out their business listing or social media to see what’s happening, browse their classes and get inspired.
Article published with permission from The Black Bitch Community magazine where it originally appeared.
