SUSTAINABLE Crediton and Significant Seams, with support from a range of further groups, are inviting creative people across Mid Devon to do an autumn tidy of their crafty stashes.

They have hired the Boniface Centre on October 26, and are inviting everyone to go along with things from their crafty clear-out AND wish lists from 1pm to 4pm.  Items can be swapped for a donation. 

Artist and Director of Significant Seams, Catherine West said: “Inspired by the fabulous Seed Share that happens at the end of winter just as people begin planning their kitchen gardens and allotments, the partners in this project agree we want to bring people who make together - and help provide that motivation to tackle the craft cupboard.

“The event knows that most of us have a potentially embarrassing number of unfinished projects, but that shouldn’t diminish the joy we find in making.

“I personally have been surprised how much the act of tidying for Devon Open Studios focused my mind and supported my artistic productivity.  The autumn and winter lend themselves to making and repairing.

“Prioritising these activities can save us money, and reduce our carbon footprint.

“Our creative selves also inspire and attract other people. It’s lovely to connect over things we are making rather than work or family stresses. We hope this event will help people make friendly and inspiring new connections.”

Significant Seams will be providing a swap area for books, magazines and patterns and a workshop set-up.

Sustainable Crediton volunteers will be sorting and presenting donated items in categories as they arrive (eg. wool, fabric, haberdashery, art supplies, beads, equipment, etc).

In the workshop area, a Sustainable Crediton volunteer will have totebags half-made and ready for finishing by attendees. The Turning Tides Project will also be teaching an activity.

The Poppy Appeal will be giving out patterns. (Other proposals for demonstrations or activities are welcome.)

People are also encouraged to take along things needing repair. The volunteer-run Repair Cafe, which normally meets on the fourth Saturday of each month at Elephant on the Green, will be running from the Boniface Centre on this day, as part of the Eco Crafternoon.

There will also be a number of stalls selling craft and arts related donations as fundraisers and/or showcasing sustainable textile and craft-related issues.

A historical specialist is putting together an exhibition of ancient fashion made using ancient techniques.

Cakes, coffee and tea are being provided by the Crediton Community Larder volunteers. 

Organisers are encouraging makers to take their knitting, spinning wheels, and other projects-in-progress to do some social making on the day. The event aims to set the scene for a creative, crafty, social, and sustainable crafty season.