What a crafty invention
WHAT IF group’s creativity is causing a stir in the community
It’s become a hive of creativity and feel-good fun.
In a little over a year, the WHAT IF community of crafters and alternative therapists has blossomed.
The business was established by local textile and embroidery artist Catherine McAtier in Moss Street, Paisley.
People can book classes to make anything from jewellery and embroidery to lampshades.
And the beauty of it is the creations can either be taken home or put up for sale in the display area of the workshop.
Last weekend, the focus was on beaded jewellery, courtesy of Evelyn McIntosh Designs.
Amanda McKinley runs
The Butterfly Room, an alternative and holistic health business involving crystals and meditation and mindfullness.
Instead of tarot cards, she uses angel cards, which she describes as “less scarey”.
The Moss Street premises were previously home to Weavolution Paisley, which lost funding due to the pandemic and went out of business.
Amanda said: “WHAT IF is amazing and gives local crafters the opportunity to sell their wares.
“The beaded bracelet classes run by Evelyn used tiny beads and the end result is really special and detailed.
“I am delighted to be part of what is happening here, and Catherine had invited me to set up my own space as she understands the concept of holistic wellbeing.”
WHAT IF is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm and a new crochet group at just £5 a week is about to start.
In the future there are plans for classes for children.
Amanda said: “Catherine very much has an ethos of affordability and accessability, so everyone can be involved.
“Whole day classes are also very affordable, and the fee includes the materials.”
On Friday afternoons, the ‘Crafting, crafty chat and a cuppa’ sessions are on a ’pay what you can’ basis with donations for tea and coffee.
Check out www.facebook. com/WhatIfPaisley/ for all the details