The idea for Crafternoon Tea came when reminiscing about childhood memories where we would be around other children and given the materials to be artistic for a couple hours - no pressure, no rules, just creativity. As we get older, those opportunities cease to exist and we desperately crave both socialisation and mindfulness to have a healthy escape from life’s pressures. Crafternoon Tea follows the format of a children’s art workshop intended for an adult audience.

Crafternoon Tea runs on the first Sunday of the month at Greenbank Pub in Easton, Bristol. At our events, we offer a relaxing atmosphere for people to work on creative projects in a social and supportive environment. At Crafternoon Tea, we aim to bring people together through the love of creativity, conversation and cake. 

This event is in honour of my grandmother and grandfather who moved from the farmland of Vermont across to the bright lights of the Bay Area, California - where I was born. My grandmother taught me the love of craft from a young age. I remember making handmade t-shirts with her next to the swimming pool in her back garden or making turquoise jewellery with her at workshops in Phoenix, Arizona. My Grandpa always looked on at her, in awe of the strong, independent woman he had married far before it became a 'hashtag'. 

For anyone in San Francisco that went with me to my grandparents house, you will remember the welcoming and inspirational presence of Roberta and Earl Houston. I loved spending time with them learning a new skill, sharing stories and bonding. We want to create that environment one Sunday each month in Bristol - and some festivals in the summer - where you can work on something creative with a pint or a coffee.

We are asking for donations towards Art Refuge UK, which is Bristol-based charity that supports displaced people through art making and art therapy. Art Refuge UK work in France, Nepal and the UK.

A variety of art supplies and cakes are always provided. 

Charity: www.artrefugeuk.org
Facebook: @crafternoontea
Instagram: @crafternoonteauk
Email: crafternoonteauk@gmail.com