The Pretty Craft Market returns to Richmond this Sunday, with visitors able to try their hand at making jewellery or natural perfume.
Organiser Karen Cooper has been running the markets for the past five years to provide an opportunity for locals to sell their crafts as well as fundraise for local groups. She says people are always looking for a way to reduce stress and crafts do that, so she decided to introduce a couple of workshops.
“We’re aiming to give people a mindful creative moment, which is so important with all the current stresses,” she says. “It’s something to help us slow down and make us feel good – you feel proud of what you make.”
Several stallholders were inspired by the creations at previous markets, had a go, and are now selling their handmade crafts, she says.
One of the upcoming workshops will be run by Rachel Greig from Rose and Luna in partnership with The Sparkle Project, which uses donated preloved jewellery and stray beads.
Rachel created the project a few years ago, turning the donations into new creations that are donated to various organisations for fundraisers. One of her hopes is the workshops will attract more volunteers for the project.
The other workshop is run by Fiona from Kahurangi Cottage, who will be teaching participants about the benefits of natural fragrances and essential oils, while creating their own personalised perfume blend. That workshop has a fee of $30.
Around 20 stalls will fill the Richmond Town Hall between 10am and 2pm, with koha collected at the door and proceeds going to the Tahunanui Football Club’s Under-13 girls’ team.
Karen says that there is always a mix of “newbies” and regular stallholders showing off their talent, and while it takes a bit of organising, it’s always worth it.
“I love it. It’s a lot of work and a labour of love, but on the day it’s so beautiful – and hugs all round.”
