'Carry On Crafting Festival' Comes To Ardingly Next Month

The first ever dog-friendly crafting festival will come to the South of England Showground next month, inspired by the mental health journey of a Worthing woman who says crafting saved her life.

Ten years ago Justine Robson said she had a breakdown, which "felt like the bottom literally fell out of my world".

Despite studying art at school and university, she went on to work in finance until she reached a point where she couldn't go on.

"It was the scariest thing that had ever happened to me and I had no idea what was going on, I genuinely thought I was losing my mind. I took a sabbatical from work and spent about six months in the dark. I tried to go back to work, but it just didn’t feel right. I’m very lucky to have a supportive partner who helped me see I couldn’t go back."

So she started being creative again. Her mum taught her to crochet, "and honestly that was the beginning of my life completely changing. I loved it and was soon teaching others and designing patterns. Now I do it for a living and run crochet retreats. I feel very blessed."

It was at this point that she decided to put the festival together:

"I've been wanting to put something together for several years now, but wasn’t sure exactly what I wanted. We have some wonderful artists and crafters down here on the south coast and we have some lovely craft fairs, but we don’t have any events where the public can get involved and have a go, learn a new skill, watch some demonstrations, buy supplies, etc., and that’s where it all started.

"I then added all the extra things that I am passionate about, like the vintage vibe, great food, gluten-free and dairy-free food. Camping seemed like a great add-on, as it’s a chance for adults to get away make some new creative friends and carry on crafting into the night." 

You'll also find a craft market, craft supplies, demos, classes, drop in classes, an artisan food market, vintage market, street food, live entertainment and classic cars. Pretty much "something for everyone".

When asked if she thinks crafting can genuinely help people, Justine says it's all about having fun and enjoying yourself:

"Honestly I think being creative can lift anyone’s mood, whether you think you are creative or not. It’s about having a go. Finding something that you really enjoy. It’s about making new friends - lots of the ladies who come to class say it’s the best therapy they ever have! We laugh, crochet and eat cake, what’s not to love!

"I am just a lady who is passionate about being creative and helping other people and I wanted to put this event on for people like me. We really hope it’s a success as we’d like it to be a yearly event that can grow. Come and join us for a lovely relaxed weekend with some likeminded people."

The Carry On Crafting Festival is on July 9 and 10 at The South of England Showground. 9.30am - 5pm (unless you’re camping).

Campers are invited to set up from the 8th.

You can buy tickets on the Carry On Crafting website, ranging from £5 to £70 for two adults camping.