Crocheted bunting and mandalas hung from the sprawling branches of trees and adorned benches and the entry to the community centre in Fairy Meadow. Before even making it inside the annual exhibition from the Wollongong Handweavers and Spinners Group, I knew I’d found my people. 

I’m shy at the best of times and so tried to sneak in to see the displays without too much of a fuss. There was a line snaking its way out towards the door so I jumped on the end, quietly waiting my turn. Thankfully one of the lovely members spotted me and pulled me out, directing me inside and away from the line-up of models I’d accidentally joined who were just about to enter the fashion parade!

Disaster averted, I’m so glad I got to see the parade as it was one of the highlights of the day. While the pieces – which ranged from felted hats, handwoven wraps and bags to vests and beanies knitted from wool spun by the members themselves – looked incredible set up on the displays, seeing them in motion, was something else. Some of the items were made from wool spun by very new members and woven by people just finding their way around the loom. Seriously impressive stuff. 

The parade, and the whole event, was really hands on, with people stopping the models, many of whom had been roped in by friends and family to sashay around the hall, to peek inside the bags they were wearing, to feel the material that had been woven and to try on the hats.

I had a chance to sit with Deirdre Bowman as she was demonstrating the art of spinning fleece. And it is an art – it’s quite meditative to watch but I’m sure takes a real knack to learn. While Deirdre and Jenny were using large wooden wheels, which is the thing that comes to mind when I think of spinning, others were using small electric spinners, running off little battery packs! A modern twist on a traditional craft. Deidre told me about dying the wool and showed me the gorgeous yellow hue she had created by using turmeric. My mind began to whir. 

I came away with a gorgeous hank of squishy yarn, which is currently begging me to wind it so it’s ready to use. But more than that, I came away brimming with inspiration and with that little whisper inside telling me it might be time to learn another fibre craft.

If you’re interested in learning to spin or use a loom, contact The Wollongong Handweavers and Spinners Group via email or learn more on their Facebook page