Elaine’s Caribbean Crochet hosted a business plan development workshop for crochet artisans on Friday 15 December from 1:00pm – 4:00pm at the Tunapuna Community Centre. The workshop entitled “A Crafty Christmas” allowed crocheters to learn about creating a signature crochet style, target marketing strategies, and important principles for leaving a legacy.
Elaine’s Caribbean Crochet Founder, Nikisha Toppin, was happy to facilitate the activity in collaboration with the Community Development Division Handicraft Unit. “Crochet is an age-old tradition that is going through a creative renaissance. The craft is reemerging as a fashionable style and is being used by many persons for therapy and relaxation. We are thankful to continue the legacy of Elaine Doyle, my grandmother, by encouraging others to maintain and grow in their craft.”
Community Development Division Handicraft Unit Handicraft Development Officer III (Ag.) Tracy Clarke said “I am very glad to see that A Crafty Christmas was able to be implemented. I have noticed that persons have shown a keen interest in the craft of crochet and I see that there is benefit for it, especially for those who are passionate about their craft. I’ve seen persons at different craft markets being able to sell, market their work and be happy about what they do.”
She continued “Wherever I can give assistance as a Handicraft Development Officer to this development, I trust that I will be able to do so and there would be support coming from our ministry as well. I wish all the participants much success and look forward to continuing to work with Elaine’s Caribbean Crochet as they promote the craft of crochet.”
During the workshop, crocheters utilized the Granny Square pattern to create a motif afghan to be donated to the Ministry of Community Development Division. Attendees were encouraged to create a crochet association for community building, customer reach, and skill development.
“A Crafty Christmas” is an annual event for Elaine’s Caribbean Crochet following the facilitation of “A Christmas Celebration” in December 2022. Elaine’s Caribbean Crochet empowers handcrafters to make their businesses more financially sustainable by providing the resources, skills and tools for development.
It is always a pleasure being able to come together with my fellow crocheters but I mostly enjoyed the marketing strategies which I will be using in the new year to promote and build my brand. Looking forward to another one soon.
I would like to know more about this group.
I am a crocheter
This is a great step foward