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| Cordial and Grace |
I first read about Cordial and Grace, a sewing cafe, in my local magazine Clifton Life, at a time when I had fallen completely under the crafting spell.
As an artist and a photographer, I spent much of my teenage years creating in one form or another.
But sewing, and knitting, had always eluded me. I studied the subject in school, and even fondly remember sewing handmade books. But by secondary school I dismissed the craft as futile and boring, and left the buttons and name badges to my experienced mother.
It wasn't until I moved to my first house, in January 2011, that I realised what I was missing out on. While decorating my bedroom I quickly noticed I was sourcing furniture, trinkets and accessories all with a common theme.
I developed an eye for detail, craftmanship and the most exquisite colours and patterns. I was inspired by the beauty, but also the technique behind it.
In his novel, The Portrait of a Lady, Henry James wrote: "There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea."
I agree. There is nothing more rewarding, or pleasing, than embracing tradition and enjoying the simple things in life.
And one of the most basic pleasures is creating.
And one of the most basic pleasures is creating.
It's this kind of ethos that makes up Cordial and Grace, which was opened in November 2011 by owner Maria Whiteman.
In Autumn this year, I decided that appreciating other peoples talents wasn't enough. I wanted to do it too.
I began to explore my creative side further, and started looking for guidance. Being 20 it's rare to find people my age with a strong interest in crafting, and I knew it would hard to maintain a new hobby with little support.
Then I read about Cordial and Grace. It claims to be Bristol's first sew-by-hour cafe, but it's so much more than that.
It offers workshops for all levels, including sewing for beginners, patchwork quilting and corset making. It also offers expert help, sessions to work on your own projects and sells fabric.
Above all, it focuses on the community. Not only does it source produce from local and ethical suppliers, but it is becoming a haven for crafters of all ages to meet and support each other.
In this economical downturn one thing has become clear - we have to come together. It's an idea that has formed the basis for the Occupy movement, and it's something that our towns and cities are missing.
But people like Cordial and Grace are leading the way, one stitch at a time.
Take a look at their website, http://www.cordial-and-grace.co.uk, to find out more. If you're Bristol-based you can find them on The Mall, in Clifton Village.
I attended the Sewing for Beginners course today, which was fantastic.
The course ran from 12pm-3pm, which luckily coincides with the only three hours I'll work on a Sunday. I loved having a reason to go out today, and to Clifton Village especially as it's beautiful.
The shop itself is stunning, although a little small for my liking (as a solo tea-drinker I prefer open spaces so I can find a nook to hide in), and the range of food is delicious.
The course was hands-on and well taught by costume maker Laura. I was the most inexperienced in the class, but Laura took time to make sure I understood everything clearly.
Most importantly, it was fun, and the three hours flew by.
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| Denim and cotton material bag |
Somehow by the end of it I had created something.
Here is my bag. I initially intended to use it for carting my magazine cuttings from office to home, but I found it works even better as a little lunch bag.
I can't wait to show it off at work tomorrow.
That's all for today, but next week we're making cushion covers. See you then!
Heather x
Heather x