Charlotte Varcoe
A PASSION for art and creativity helped shape the life of Cindy Cary but sadly she did not live to see out her dream of owning her own craft store.
The late Ms Cary was the driving force behind CJ’s Yarn Place, which has brought new life to the small shopping complex bordered by Penola Road and Wireless Road East.
Sadly, one month before opening day Cindy was struck down by illness and subsequently lost her health battle.
The store is being collectively managed by Cindy’s daughter Amanda Cary, and granddaughter Holly Cary, both of whom are dedicated to seeing Cindy’s dream successfully become reality.
Ms Cary said her mother had always dreamed of a comfortable place where clients were able to question the crafts at any level whether it be beginner or advanced.
“We believe no question is a silly question because everyone learns from asking questions,” Ms Cary said.
“Mum used to always say if you were meant to know it, you would be born with the knowledge to try it and she was a big believer in practice makes perfect.
“She also said not to look at the mistakes but to look at the achievements because the possibilities are endless especially from what people can create from a ball of yarn.”
Cindy and her husband Jim designed the store layout to ensure the store was welcoming and comfortable, with a large bench – painted in Ms Cary’s favourite colour purple – a centrepiece.
Ms Cary said her mother was adamant the brands in the store were only available online giving crafting enthusiasts the true colours of the tarn and having local stock available to eliminate the wait for postage.
“Mum’s items are also on display at the store and at times we are lucky to have display pieces from the community on show,” she said.
“The ongoing support has been fantastic with mum’s dream becoming a reality.”
Ms Cary said the family-run business was also working towards developing a classroom where lessons and workshops would be available from beginner to intermediate crafters in both knitting and crochets.
“We have started to take bookings for the workshops with different workshops and all different levels available,” Ms Cary said.
“Mum always wanted a happy place where people could come in for a yarn, show us their masterpieces and where others are able to stock up on more yarn at the same time,” she said.
CJ’s Yarn Place is located at 1/144 Penola Road, Mount Gambier.
