In a costly world, finding community without breaking the bank proves especially difficult. The Biedenharn Museum offered much-needed relief from the hustle and bustle of everyday life with a craft circle.
The museum hosted crafters of all kinds, with participants bringing their own projects or sharing one with others.
Attendees explained the appeal of the craft circle. Most expressed the desire for a third space, away from the chaos of work or the responsibilities of home.
“[Especially] in Monroe, it feels like every time you leave the house, you’re spending money,” Matthew, an employee attending craft circle, said.
Others stated that crafting was a great way to slow down and de-stress after a busy day of work or school.
“Crafting is work, but it takes so long to finish something. It’s rewarding and inherently against instantaneous results,” Devon said.
Attendees taught each other about their respective crafts. Participants made collages from hand-pressed flowers found on farms and trinkets from antique shops. Others embroidered seaside scenes onto panels of fabric. A group of knitters collaborated on a blanket made using Tunisian crochet.
The attendees fell into a natural rhythm of conversation as if they had been friends for years. However, for many, the meeting was their first or second time in attendance.
“Everyone talks less and less every day. You don’t really get a chance to sit around and chat,” Maggie, another participant, said.
The craft circle began as a way for museumgoers to connect after hours. Matthew explained the premise to newcomers, who wondered why Biedenharn started hosting the event.
“Nicole, our curator, she’s the one who pitched the idea. She had met a lot of people at different Biedenharn events saying, ‘I love coming here and doing these kinds of events. I’m a stay-at-home mom. I’d like to get out, but I don’t really go out and drink,'” Matthew said.
Craft Circle is held every third Tuesday of the month, except December, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Look at the Biedenharn Museum’s Facebook and Instagram, @b.museum, for updates and upcoming events.