A world of wool in winter

Posted on 9 May, 2017

Winter is coming, and it is about time to wrap yourself in a warm, cosy cardigan, scarf or beanie.

For centuries, wool was the primary material used to keep people warm during the cold seasons. This century, however, wool has sprung from the dowdy knitting of your Aunt Mildred and into the realm of cool, chic and sustainable fashion and homewares.

From Stich ‘n’ Bitch sessions to crafternoons, all things wool have come back into fashion and if it’s always something that’s appealed to you, now is the time to indulge. The Old Bus Depot Markets’ Celebration of Wool has always been the ultimate destination for touching, trying and purchasing wool, but now it will also be the destination for learning about the amazing things you can make with this magical fibre.

Here’s what you can look forward to across the weekend of 20 and 21 May.

Macramé workshop with Annette Boyd

Annette with one of her macrame creations. Image: facebook.com/pg/AnnetteBoydArtandDesign

Running out of DIY home décor ideas? This workshop with master of macramé Annette Boyd is sure to inspire. Annette is a guru for anyone interested in creating their own unique designs and every participant will take home a beautiful plant hanger. The workshop is designed for everyone including beginners and participants will learn how to produce several basic macramé knots and will get familiar with several other techniques.

2.5 hours | Saturday 20 May at either 9.30am or 12.30pm at the Fitter’s Workshop (adjacent to the Old Bus Depot Markets) | More information and tickets via Eventbrite

Hand Twining and String Making with Effie Dee

Hand twining and string making can be tricky, but with an experienced teacher it becomes effortless. Effie Dee, a Canberra based artist and designer, has lots of creative ideas for using basic materials and modern textures.

One hour | Saturday 20 May at either 9.30am, 11.30am or 1.30pm at the Fitter’s Workshop (adjacent to the Old Bus Depot Markets) | More information and tickets via Eventbrite

Alpaca Magic: Learn to Needle Felt with Alpaca Fibre

Calling all alpaca lovers! This workshop is suitable for beginners as well as those with intermediate skills. No need to worry about materials, Glenda will provide Alpaca and Ilana fibres and other necessary tools.

Two hours | Saturday 20 May at either 10am or 1pm at the Fitter’s Workshop (adjacent to the Old Bus Depot Markets) | More information and tickets via Eventbrite

The Australian Wool Store: Sock Workshop

This workshop is designed for experienced knitters who would like to create and design their own pair of socks – perfect for chilly Canberra winters!

One hour | Saturday 20 at either 11am or 1pm the Fitter’s Workshop (adjacent to the Old Bus Depot Markets) | More information and tickets via Eventbrite

Canberra Region Feltmakers Workshop

This workshop is a great opportunity for those who are just beginning to learn the basic skills of laying out and fully felting pieces. Two tutors from Canberra Region Feltmakers will provide proper guidance in making interesting pieces of felted jewellery.

Two hours | Saturday 20 at either 10am or 12pm the Fitter’s Workshop (adjacent to the Old Bus Depot Markets) | More information and tickets via Eventbrite

the essentials 

What: The Old Bus Depot Markets’ Celebration of Wool
When: Saturday 20 May and Sunday 21 May
Where: Old Bus Depot Markets, Kingston Former Transport Depot
More information and tickets: obdm.com.au/news/makers-workshops-for-a-celebration-of-wool