Catford Sewing and Knitting Group

Hi folks, thank you so much for the lovely words of support you all gave me regarding my missed trip to Scotland, and the health issues behind it. It means a lot to me to know that I have friends out there who care. The fact that I have not even met all of you yet makes it all the more special.

You all have the eternal gratitude of Mr.Dibs, who woke up at 6:30am on Saturday morning to the sounds of me crying on the phone to House of Pinheiro , who was on her way to the airport, and trying her best to console this hysterical person on the other side of the line. After she managed to calm me down, and we hung up, all Mr.Dibs could say was “she sounds really nice”, to which I snapped “They are all very nice”. He got a better understanding of my last statement when I told him the girls were sending me a parcel through Houseof Pinheiro. How can you not love being a part of such a generous and loving sewing community?

Which brings me to a more serious matter.....

St.Laurence Church, Catford.
 Home of the Catford Sewing and Knitting Group.

A couple of days ago, I got an email from a lovely lady called Delphina, telling me about a new sewing and knitting group in Catford, in South London, which will go into operation at the end of the month. It is council-funded ( how cool is that?), and it is completely free to join. However, since it is Council funded, priority is given to Lewisham borough residents. Delphina did point out the fact that they have space for 12-15 people, so she’s certain of the fact that a few non-residents might also be included.

Unfortunately, I live very far from Catford, but I am sure one of you might be able to take advantage of this wonderful initiative. I wish I had one like this in my borough.

So here are few FAQs about the Catford Sewing and Knitting Group.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1) How much does it cost?

Nothing! We are a 'not-for-profit' community group funded by Lewisham Council. However, space is limited so we operate 'first-come-first-served' at tables.

2) Where do you meet?

From 11am - 5.30pm (6pm final close), every Saturday, except the 3rd Sat of each month, in the 'Youth Room' at St Laurence Hall, Bromley Road (http://www.stlaurencecatford.org.uk/index.html).
FULL LIST OF DATES CAN BE FOUND AT THE END OF THIS POST

3) Do you teach sewing, knitting, embroidery, crochet etc?

We do not teach classes in sewing, knitting, embroidery or crochet. We are an informal drop-in for people who already know how to pattern cut, sew, knit, crochet or embroider and are confident in completing projects on their own. We provide a supportive environment only.

4) Do you provide sewing machines?

No. Our small budget does not cover this. Everyone must bring their own sewing or knitting machine, materials and yarn. We also do not provide spare needles, scissors or bobbins.
Rolls & Rems dressmaking shop in Lewisham is a 10-min bus ride away and stocks an impressive range of fabrics, yarns and haberdashery items at affordable prices.

5) Do you allow children?

For Health & Safety reasons, we cannot allow children under 16 in the room.

6) Is there wheelchair access?

Yes. St Laurence has full wheelchair access.

7) What facilities are there?

The room can hold approx. 12-15 people in all. We have one cutting table, a dummy, a steam iron, ironing board and full-length mirror. Please note: St Laurence has no wifi.

8) Do you provide refreshments?

We can provide a limited supply of tea and coffee.

9) Can I bring my own lunch?

Yes, sandwiches are fine. You must take your rubbish away with you. Catford High Street has a wide range of eateries and a large Tesco if you prefer to go out for lunch.

10) Is there parking?

Yes. St Laurence has parking in the rear for approx 25 cars. If this is full, the nearby streets of Culverly Road and Penerly Road are free to park on a Saturday. Just make double sure you are not on a line or blocking anyone's driveway!

11) What buses/trains stop nearby?

If using public transport, we recommend you use a sturdy trolley or suitcase to bring your machine, fabrics and sewing box. Catford is well served by two rail stations and many bus routes stop near the hall; http://www.stlaurencecatford.org.uk/wherearewe.html

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PLEASE NOTE: Any table left unattended for 45 mins will be given to the next person waiting.
Your machine and materials will be carefully removed and stored for when you come to collect.
You join the group on this understanding.

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DATES THE GROUP MEET

JANUARY 2012

SAT 7TH
SAT 14TH
SAT 21ST - NO MEETING
SAT 28TH

FEBRUARY 2012

SAT 4TH
SAT 11TH
SAT 18TH - NO MEETING
SAT 25TH

MARCH 2012

SAT 3RD
SAT 10TH
SAT 17TH - NO MEETING
SAT 24TH
SAT 31ST

APRIL 2012

SAT 7TH
SAT 14TH
SAT 21ST - NO MEETING
SAT 28TH

MAY 2012

SAT 5TH
SAT 12TH
SAT 19TH - NO MEETING
SAT 26TH

If you, like me, are not physically able to be a part of this group, you can still keep up to date with their activities by following their blog....yes, its up and running already.

Have a lovely week everyone.