Four decades of craft, friendship and purpose: The Constantia Handcraft Club turns 40

Forty years ago, a small group of local women gathered around a table with needles, fabric, and a shared passion for creativity.

That gathering in 1985 marked the beginning of the Constantia Handcraft Club - a place that would become, for many, far more than just a craft circle.

“It all began when a few local ladies who were attending the Fish Hoek Craft Club decided they wanted something closer to home,” said club secretary Megan Lofthouse.

Under the guidance of Claire Clark from Fish Hoek, three women, Louise Wilding, Hazel Sabatta, and Netty Poynton, held the first meeting.

“About eight ladies arrived for that first session, and by the next one there were sixteen,” Ms Lofthouse said.

The demand was clear, and soon, meeting in a home became impossible. The group moved from a small hall to the NG Kerk in Kreupelbosch, Constantia, where they’ve gathered ever since - for 39 of their 40 years.

In the early days, the club’s projects reflected the time: “Patchwork bags, tea cosies, door stoppers, cushion covers with cross-stitch or candlewicking, smocking, Fabergé eggs, and silk ribbon embroidery,” Ms Lofthouse said.

Some of those crafts have endured, though trends have shifted dramatically.

“Many of the younger generations don’t use or want some of those items anymore,” she admits.

Today, members create a wide range of items, including beaded jewellery and Christmas decorations, as well as wood burning, fabric painting, and paper crafts. Lessons are taught weekly, and workshops, often led by members themselves, keep skills and creativity flowing.

“Our members are so willing to share their talents with others, it’s a community of like-minded women who encourage, love and support each other.”

Before the pandemic, the club had around 120 members, though numbers dropped in the years that followed. Membership now sits at about 75, and is slowly growing again.

What hasn’t changed is the sense of belonging that the club provides.

“We are so grateful that the club has stayed afloat and been a lifeline for many as they age and lose partners. It’s a place to gather, chat, be inspired, and be creative.”

Their meetings aren’t just about craft, they’re about connection.

“We’ve shared laughter, learning, and lasting friendships. Our members are proud to belong to this prestigious club.”

Over the years, the Constantia Handcraft Club has used its talents to bring comfort and joy to others.

“We’re proud of the impact we’ve had among underprivileged and low-income groups,” said Ms Lofthouse.

Members donate thousands of handmade items each year to local charities and hospitals.

This year alone, from February to mid-September, more than 2 800 items were distributed - from baby jackets and blankets for False Bay and Khayelitsha Hospitals, to beanies and fiddle mats for old age homes, and even toys for children and knitted items for animal rescues.

Among their most touching contributions are ‘angel blanket packs’ - small crocheted or quilted blankets with a corner pocket in which stillborn babies are gently wrapped, allowing parents to say goodbye.

“It’s heartbreaking but so necessary,” said Ms Lofthouse.

“The blankets are given with a tiny beanie and heart, either kept by the parents or left with the baby.”

The club’s annual exhibition is a highlight of the calendar -  a colourful showcase of creativity.

“Visitors can expect to be delighted and inspired by the incredible talent on display,” Ms Lofthouse said. The hall is transformed with themed décor, and a café area offers tea, coffee, and homemade treats.

There’s also a sales room brimming with handmade gifts, from beaded jewellery and Amigurumi toys to decorated glass plates and scatter cushions, and a ‘Crafts in Action’ table where members demonstrate their skills.

“Our exhibitions have always received wonderful reviews,” she said.

As the club looks to the next decade, the goal is to keep crafts, both old and new, alive.

“We want to remain a place where young and old can learn and create. We’d love to revive traditional crafts like knitting, crocheting, and sewing for future generations," Ms Lofthouse said. 

To attract younger members, the club participates in ‘Knitting in Public Day’, hosting a table at a local shopping centre to showcase their work. Biannual exhibitions and sales days also help to draw in curious newcomers.

What keeps members returning, even after moving away or taking breaks, is the warmth of the community.

“One of our members has been with us for 36 years and still attends weekly. Our oldest member is 94 - she still knits for charity and takes part in everything.”

After four decades, the Constantia Handcraft Club remains a treasured hub of creativity and companionship.

As Ms Lofthouse puts it, “We’ve had an extraordinary journey - one filled with laughter, learning, and lasting friendships. Long may it continue.”