A NEEDLECRAFT group has been formed at Tedburn St Mary that includes crochet, knitting, dressmaking and anything else that uses a needle - or needles.

It has grown from the ideas of Jeanette Mitchell and Helen Fry. One knits, the other sews.

Both wanted to learn more about each other’s craft and then thought why not aim for a wider group.

Helen said: "The idea for the needlecraft group came from Jeanette, who responded to a request for ideas on how our church building can serve the community more. 

"There seems to be a growing interest in learning how to dressmake, knit, crochet and sew among people of all generations in Tedburn."

Helen is a mum of three children and has never made clothes but would love to learn how to use the sewing machine she has had in a cupboard for about 10 years! 

’’I learned to knit, crochet and hand sew from my mum and both grans, so I know how relaxing and sociable it is - and it’s a great feeling to know that you made something yourself. 

"I hope my children (aged nine, seven and four) grow up with these skills too," she said.

Jeanette is a gran of six little girls (eight to two years old) and learned the basic techniques of sewing, knitting and crocheting from her mum, gran and great-gran.

“I have always enjoyed making clothes for myself and two daughters, both of whom learnt to use a sewing machine at school. Now we sew for the next generation when we have time!” she commented.

They would love to hear from anyone who has dressmaking, knitting or crochet skills they could share, and an hour to spare every now and again, to go along and support people as they learn. 

They would really enjoy sharing what they have learnt and the frustrations they meet and fun they have practising these age-old skills. 

An introductory meeting was held at the Methodist Church Hall, Tedburn St. Mary, EX6 6AA (next door to the primary school, car park available) on Saturday, April 14.