Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
There’s a group for all kinds of crafting activities here in our creative capital.
In brief:
- There are a lot of groups in Canberra for people who like to craft.
- People can also pursue a passion through a class or workshop.
- This article details some of what’s on offer.
Canberra offers plenty of opportunities to craft in company.
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or looking around for a new hobby, you won’t need to look far for like-minded people.
We’ve pulled together a range of ideas for your calendar. You could:
- handcraft treasured items for a charity
- spend hours on your latest project at a crafternoon
- drop into a crafting hour in your lunch break
- head to the pub with your sketchpad
- start your own workplace crafting group.
Make a child something cosy via Roundabout
Local charity Roundabout welcomes crafted items made with care.
Roundabout provides vulnerable local families with packs of kids’ clothing and essentials.
Adding a handmade item to each pack makes it even more special.
You could:
- knit a beanie
- crochet a blanket
- sew a book bag
- repair an otherwise perfect item of clothing.
Find a list of Roundabout’s most-needed crafted items as well as links to patterns.
Create something comforting for a hospital patient
You could also use your talent to handcraft a comfort item for someone in hospital.
The Canberra Hospital Foundation Donation Station accepts handmade and new items. It’s located across from the Yamba Cafe in the Building 2 foyer.
Knitted bears and padded toys are preferred.
These offer distraction, comfort and a splash of colour in their room.
It’s also reminder that a stranger in the community is thinking of them.
Donation Station Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9.30am to 4.30pm.
Read more about the Canberra Hospital Foundation Donation Station.
Get involved with Good Omen Goodeze
Good Omen Goodeze facilitates a host of events, including free knitting and crocheting workshops.
Their workshops focus on building craft skills as well as self-care, mental health and wellness.
You’ll find details and patterns on their website.
They are also looking for volunteers.
Find out more about how to get involved.
Get along to a Crafternoon at Cafe Stepping Stone
Relax with fellow crafters at one of Cafe Stepping Stone’s Crafternoons.
These are held every second Sunday, 2pm–4pm, at the café’s Strathnairn location.
Whatever your skill level you’re sure to enjoy this free afternoon of creativity and community.
There is no need to register – just turn up.
Craft away your lunch break at Smiths
Fancy a spot of craft in your lunch hour? Smith’s Alternative has you covered.
This city favourite runs relaxed social craft sessions each Wednesday, 12:30–1:30pm.
Bring the project you’re working on and hang out with other crafty types.
From bead stringing to wire weaving, embroidery to knitting, there’s a place for all crafts and crafters.
Combine craft with conversation through Northside Community Service
Whatever your crafting experience, you’ll find Craft and Conversation meet-ups welcoming and supportive.
You’ll find the group at:
- Majura Community Hall, Dickson – Thursdays, 10am–1pm
- Margaret Hendry School Community Hub, Taylor – Thursdays, 1:30pm–3pm.
Good Omen Goodeze volunteers teach knitting and crocheting. You don’t need any prior knowledge.
Once you’ve nailed the basics, you’re welcome to handcraft gifts for Canberra Hospital patients.
Find out more on the Northside Community Service website.
Get crafty with Diversity ACT
Diversity ACT in Kambah runs the Southside Queer Arts & Craft Collective.
Join this inclusive event for LGBTQIA+ allies on the second Saturday of each month, from 2–4:30pm.
It’s a great place to pick up some new skills and meet people.
You don’t need to book – simply bring your artistic energy. They’ll provide the sewing machines and refreshments.
Enjoy craft and a cuppa with Capital Crafters
Capital Crafters is held at Duntroon Community Centre on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30am to 12:30pm.
Bring what you’re working on and share ideas with like-minded people.
You can also join one of the organised events run throughout the year.
Both Defence and non-Defence members are welcome.
Head to a meetup with Canberra Knitters and Crocheters
Canberra Knitters and Crocheters is a welcoming and inclusive group of local crafters.
The group runs meetups many days of the week and inform members of other events taking place.
There’s also an active Facebook group for members to chat all things yarn.
Embrace the body beautiful with life drawing
You’ll find plenty of life drawing classes around Canberra.
If you’re keen to pair your drawing with a drink, try The Tipsy Sketching Club. They run sessions in several local pubs and lounges.
You can also search Class Bento for more options.
Sign up for a class or workshop
Canberra Institute of Technology offers loads of creative arts and crafts short courses.
You can also find plenty of places that run workshops and classes. Some of these include:
Note: This is but a small selection on what you can find in our crafty capital.
Why craft?
Whichever your craft of choice, it likely offers benefits beyond the final product.
The activity is known to improve wellbeing. Crafting of all kinds can promote mindfulness, relieve stress and improve dexterity for people of all ages.
Crafting groups also allow people to
- build social connections
- learn new skills
- volunteer their time and talent
- practise English.
And of course, it’s lots of fun.
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