SCHOOL holidays are in full swing and the Dungog-Clarence Town Branch of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) has free, fun activities for children.
For the first time, the Dungog Shire Community Centre has joined the CWA in presenting these activities, by providing adults to assist.
Dungog fibre artist Julie Fitzgerald is sharing her enthusiasm for making textile creations with the children by showing them how to weave, tie and sew scrap fabric, to make a range of fun items.
There are a variety of skills to learn and practice, including cutting out fabric pieces and using the sewing machines to assemble and embellish decorative placemats and wreaths.
Julie said that last school holidays, as many as 30 participants joined her each day.
Because there are a variety of activities, plenty of helpers, and lots of materials, they can easily cater for that number again.
The hall is a riot of bright, colourful fabrics and completed textile art works and the atmosphere is cheerfully busy as the children move around choosing more fabrics and materials, admiring others’ work, and using the supplied irons and sewing machines.
The pieces they make are theirs to keep, and could be used as finished objects, or joined together to make larger items – like table runners or rugs.
The activities are open for children aged eight and up, or younger children who are accompanied by a family member.
This week’s sessions are planned for Monday 21 April and Tuesday 22 April, 9.30am – 12pm.
No bookings are needed, just drop in.
On Wednesday, 23 April between 1pm – 2.30pm, Julie will also be teaching an Anzac wreath-making workshop at the CWA hall.
For more information, contact her on 0457859744.
By Lisa WISEMAN
