Tag Archives: Craft

Magpie Markets in Lawson are a local institution providing a sustainable boost to the local economy. Recently a trial waste sorting and recycling hub has significantly reduced waste going to landfill. Find out more and meet some of the stallholders here.

Op shops and secondhand stores are booming in Katoomba, part of a growing interest in the circular economy. It's also helping locals save money while looking good in vintage and retro fashion.

Amidst the sound of sawing, carving and hammering, there’s laughter and chatter. Friendships are strengthened and skills are traded. Members of the Blue Mountains and Penrith Woodworking Club are supporting charities and each other.

The very popular Tarana Markets are on the fourth Sunday of every month and provide an opportunity to meet local farmers, artisans and creative practitioners. The markets have been raising funds for the local Rural Fire Service (RFS) and community since 2015.

Julie Paterson and Manda Kaye’s home in Blackheath was designed with bushfire in mind and they are now preparing for the bushfire season. They’ve also moved to renewables and Julie is working on collaborative community art projects that embody the philosophy of re-using and re-making.

Every Friday at the Lower Mountains Neighbourhood Centre, women come together to transform balls of wool into blankets, beanies & teddies. Their creations find their way to people in nursing homes, premature babies, vulnerable children, homeless people or those living with terminal illness.

On my visits to the Central Mountains Men's Shed in Lawson, two things stood out to me: here were a group of men who gained skills, fulfilment and pride from their work at the Shed, and here were a group of men with strong bonds and friendship.

The Australian Repair Shop sits at the side of the busy Great Western Highway in Faulconbridge. It is run by Mark Phelan, his wife Rebecca and a team of dedicated 'repairers'.

Willowa Ana Carter is a multi-disciplinary artist with a passion for creating community connection. She's also the creator of Re’kleimees - but what are they?

Lyttleton functions as a deft weaver, drawing in large numbers of individuals via open days, workshops, and events such as this year’s Thread Fair. It succeeds in creating something greater – the stronger mesh of community.