Lake Macquarie Embraces DIY Craft with ‘Make and Create Week’

Interest in DIY crafting, textiles, and hands-on activities is reaching new heights in Lake Macquarie, sparking the launch of the region’s first-ever ‘Make and Create Week.’ Starting on Monday, 7 October 2024, the program offers a diverse range of events spread across Lake Mac Libraries, the Museum of Art and Culture (MAC), and the Multi-Arts Pavilion (mima). The week serves as a satellite event for the well-loved Sydney Craft Week, highlighting the growing local passion for creative endeavours.

The program will culminate on Friday, 18 October, with ‘Maker-Con 24’ at the Windale Hub, bilyabayi. This event is set to bring together a wide array of makers, innovators, and STEM educators, providing a space to showcase creativity and technological advancements.

Lake Macquarie City Council’s Manager of Arts, Culture, and Tourism, Jacqui Hemsley, noted that the demand for ‘maker’ activities has surged since the COVID-19 lockdowns and has remained strong. “In a world where we’re surrounded by technology, there’s something deeply satisfying about crafting something with your hands,” she said. “Whether you’re knitting a simple scarf or tackling a more complex project, it brings a sense of achievement.”

Recognising this growing interest, the Council recently opened a dedicated textiles and sewing section at Toronto Library, tirrabiyanba, giving enthusiasts a space to immerse themselves in their craft.

Diverse Workshops for All Skill Levels

The week-long program promises a mix of workshops and hands-on experiences that cater to both beginners and seasoned crafters. Highlights of the schedule include:

• A yarn swap at Morisset Library, bawarramalang, on 8 October
• A DIY projector lamp workshop at MAP, mima, on 10 October
• A DIY clay Christmas gnome workshop at Sugar Valley Library Museum, kirantakamyari, on 12 October
• A felted vessel workshop at MAC, yapang, on 15 October
• A textile taster workshop at Charlestown Library, walyamayi, on 17 October

Expert-Led Sessions at Maker-Con 24

The grand finale, Maker-Con 24, will bring prominent guest speakers to the stage, including Shelley Wilson from Questacon, Peter Turner from Tribotix, and Dr Luke Hespanol from the University of Sydney. Ms Hemsley described the event as “a one-day celebration of creativity and innovation,” with hands-on workshops and expert talks set to inspire participants.

While some events are free, others come with a fee, and bookings are essential. Full details and registration information can be found at arts.lakemac.com.au.

Make and Create Week is set to be a vibrant celebration of the maker community, welcoming everyone, from curious beginners to seasoned professionals, to dive into the world of DIY and crafting.