About Our Crafty Place

Our Crafty Place started as a simple idea between two friends, Kate and Viv. Their friendship grew through a shared love of music, Kate plays the clarinet and Viv’s husband Phil shares the same passion. In early 2023, during one excited “oh my goodness!” moment, they realised they wanted to share their love of crafting with the wider community.

A few months later, over a long lunch (and a cocktail or two), they decided to combine their creativity and build something meaningful. That afternoon, the dream of Our Crafty Place became real. Since then, they’ve worked with purpose, planning a centre where people of all ages can feel creative, supported, and part of a welcoming community.

Meet the Crafty People

Viv

Hello there! Until May 2023, I was a Paediatric Occupational Therapist, a career I began back in 1987 (eeks!). Then, later in my career, I became an Advanced Sensory Integration Practitioner. After all those years, it felt like the perfect time for a change. I’ve had the privilege of working with incredible children and young adults who have profoundly shaped my life, and I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them.

Throughout my OT journey, I developed strong problem-solving skills and an in-depth understanding of activity analysis. I’ve collaborated closely with individuals facing physical, sensory, and learning difficulties, and have run various groups for children of all ages. Additionally, I created tailored programmes for schools and colleges, and co-ran a limited company with a fellow OT, providing training for independent practitioners and organising large-scale conferences.

So, why open a Craft Centre? While I don’t have formal qualifications in crafting, my passion for it just keeps growing! Although I dabbled in crafts during my OT training, I only truly discovered my love for crafting later in life. I was once told in school that I lacked the talent for it, which affected my confidence for years. This experience drives my desire to help others experience the joy and mindfulness that crafting can bring. No one should miss out on the contentment (and challenges!) that creativity can inspire.

At Our Crafty Place I aim to create an environment where everyone feels heard, empowered, and inspired. I look forward to being there every day. Plus, I’m eager to expand my own crafting skills: I have a passion for fused glass and am hoping to improve my needle felting!

Outside of work, you’ll find me making cards, cooking, spending quality time with my husband and friends, going on walking holidays, enjoying live jazz music, dancing whenever I can, gardening and indulging in cake!

Kate

Creativity has always been part of my life. I grew up in a practical, crafty family and learned to knit, sew, draw, and paint from an early age. This passion led me to study Art and Textiles at A‑Level.

Music plays a huge role in my life as well. I began playing the clarinet at 11 and picked up the saxophone at 40.

My first career was in fashion. I worked as a pattern cutter and grader, turning design sketches into real garments. Later, I retrained as a computer programmer. When my two children arrived, I needed a role that balanced creativity with family life, so I moved into music teaching in schools and privately.

Crafting has always been my happy place. I’ve worked on countless projects, from paintings and cards to props and stage settings for children’s concerts. Give me a cardboard box and pipe cleaners, and I’ll turn them into something magical! I enjoy designing wedding decorations, Cricut projects, and anything that sparks imagination.

Opening Our Crafty Place feels like the natural next step. When I’m not helping others get creative, I’m usually playing music, enjoying good food with loved ones, or crafting something new.

Life is too short to sit still, there’s always something to make!

What is a CIC (and Why We Chose to Be One?

A Community Interest Company (CIC) exists to support the community. It is a not‑for‑profit organisation, which means all profits go straight back into the company. This structure helps us offer affordable and accessible crafting opportunities, especially for those who may not otherwise have the chance.

From the beginning, we wanted Our Crafty Place to feel welcoming and inclusive, a place centred on wellbeing, creativity, and community connection. Becoming a CIC shows funders that we aren’t here to make money for ourselves. Their support goes directly into helping people and expanding creative opportunities.

The Official Stuff

Our Crafty Place CIC is committed to providing wellbeing through crafting for everyone. We welcome all individuals regardless of ability, background, identity, or circumstances.

As a Schedule 2 company limited by shares, our assets are locked, and directors cannot receive dividends. If the time comes to step down, the organisation will pass to our chosen charity: The National Autistic Society.

What We Offer

We want everyone to experience the joy of crafting, whether they’re complete beginners or skilled makers. Our centre provides:

Workshops and Courses

Full‑day, tutor‑led workshops for up to eight people.
Half‑day and evening craft sessions at reduced prices.

Community Crafting

Up to two weekly drop‑in sessions for anyone in the community.
Suggested donations help cover running costs.
We aim for no more than 20 people at a time, except for special events.

Inclusive Craft Sessions

Bespoke sessions for people with specific needs, such as those who prefer lower lighting or quieter environments.
Sensory‑friendly adjustments available for individuals with autism or sensory differences.

Funded Creative Projects

Free craft sessions supported by targeted funding for people who cannot afford to attend.
Inclusive projects for those who need additional support.

Everyone, regardless of experience, can grow their skills, build confidence, and enjoy creativity in a safe, supportive space.