A JAM-PACKED weekend of creativity has been crafted for the Limestone Coast with enthusiasts from across the country converging on the Blue Lake city for the three-day event.
Now in its second year, CraftAlive Mount Gambier will host more than 40 arts and craft exhibitors at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds from 9.30am today.
Australian craft celebrities such as Amy Kallissa and Mandy Murray host exhibitions along with talented South East identities at the showcase, considered the nation’s biggest regional touring craft event.
Returning this year, Mount Gambier Kaszazz expert Pam Kuhn is excited to share her craft with the community.
“I had such a great response at last year’s event I knew I had to come back this year and probably every year after that,” she said.
“I think I handmade and gave away more than 200 cards at last year’s event, I could not believe how many people were interested.
“Since then I always have people ask me when the next CraftAlive is and what else can they learn about craft.”
A newcomer this year, Leilani Miller will showcase her wares to her hometown crowd.
Ms Miller dove into the world of craft in 2007 during a particularly rough time in her life, using the art as a way to keep herself “sane”.
“I was going a little stir crazy as I was stuck in bed unwell for quite some time,” she said.
“That is when I turned to arts and craft to keep myself busy.
“Soon after I joined a like minded group here in Mount Gambier and from there I learnt the art of dying wool and have been in love ever since.”
As the Mount Gambier event is her first experience into the craft exhibiting world, Ms Miller said she is excited for the weekend ahead.
“I previously had my wares in store here in Mount Gambier, but when that closed down my customers felt a little lost without a shop front,” she said.
“Obviously I have an online store but people love to see and touch wool.
“I am hopeful the community can experience the wool first hand and maybe spark an interest in the craft.”
During the weekend, exhibitors will also host workshops for those interested in a more hands-on experience.
Scrapbooking expert Natalie May has travelled from Adelaide for the event after fans of her work insisted she take part.
Hosting three workshops daily, Ms May looks forward to seeing new and old faces over the weekend.
“I will host workshops about all things scrapbooking,” she said.
“I hope I get to see new people that maybe have not tried scrapbooking – or any craft – before, plus I am sure there will be some familiar craft enthusiasts too.
“It is always great going to these kind of big events and introducing people to the world of craft.
“I encourage everyone to head down this weekend and experience everything on offer.”
CraftAlive runs today, tomorrow and Sunday from 9.30am until 4pm each day.
Visit craftalive.com.au for further information including ticket purchase and workshops.
