A couple of weeks’ back our volunteer Claire Bell joined the fortnightly Women Making It crafting session.
When your mental health is not great, some days the world feels further away that you would like it to. But there’s something deeply grounding and nurturing about stepping inside the Women’s Library where the chalkboard sign at the door guarantees a hello and welcome, and the staff and volunteers are quick to turn their faces to yours with a smile. It is a refuge.
Today Kanae from Japan is teaching the craft of felting, which is a simple way of moulding flecks of wool into something useful or decorative. It’s a popular craft in Japan and something she once did regularly with her children when they were small. On the table are some examples of what you can create – from toadstools to hearts.
It’s a simple technique. Using a long sharp needle, you place the coloured wool into moulded shapes, and stab repeatedly at it.
“It’s a great way of getting rid of your anxiety,” comments one participant.
“It’s so therapeutic,” comments another. “It’s a great way of getting out your emotions.”
Participants gather around three large tables, and are offered teas and coffee and biscuits. There is a sound of gentle chatter and laughter. Some people are regulars, some here for the first time.
Helene, an art student from Denmark, makes an ace of hearts, which she transforms into a brooch.
Anna is making a cloudy sky and a flower. “I am keen to be more creative in my free time. I want to do something new and socialise. It’s a nice way to get in touch with your community and take your mind off things.”
I find myself stabbing away at a triangle, creating a modernist piece that Kanae encourages me to turn into a brooch.
“Crafting is breathing. Creating is my reason to be,” says Doreen who comes regularly.
You are welcome to join the group, but can also be offered 1-2-1 support in the sessions. Recently they welcomed a woman who had not been out of her home since COVID.
“We get women from all walks of life, and sometimes there is a language barrier, but we can all communicate through craft,” says Syma, who oversees the sessions. “There’s often a lovely discussion about culture, background, history and heritage.”
The crafts on offer change with every session. From clay to print making. Sometimes it’s just about the craft, other times it’s about incorporating activism, feminism and exploring women’s issues. “Where possible we talk about wellbeing.” During the summer they sometimes have family friendly sessions.
Meena is there with her 16-year-old daughter, Aaliyah who is enjoying the felting, but the books are her first love.
“I love this library. In other libraries the teen books are about romance, but here the books all have something powerful to teach you. The staff give good advice and really help you find a great book.”
Women Making It is held fortnightly on Friday mornings. For dates and booking please visit this webpage: https://womenslibrary.org.uk/series/women-making-it/
