And just like that, the room was full. 💗
Once everyone had gone home, I sat back with a full heart and thought, ‘This is exactly what I hoped for.’ While the table was filled with incredible crafts, it was the conversation and the community that really stole the show. We had a lovely mix of people; a few familiar faces returned, but the rest of the group were newbies who dived straight into the spirit of the evening.
A Sweet Feast: Home-Baking and Treats
We definitely didn’t go hungry! Georgi brought along a beautiful home-baked date loaf, and Ekaterina was so incredibly kind – she not only baked for us but also contributed towards the snacks and drinks too! The kindness of the craft community in Milton Keynes never ceases to amaze me.
Ahead of everyone’s arrival, I whipped up some chocolate Easter egg nest cakes, and we had a fresh box of Tim Hortons doughnuts to keep our tummies full. There is something about sharing food that makes the “getting to know you” part of a social hobby group feel so much more natural.
As a Thai girly, food is my love language. Bringing people together is also my love language. So, to have everyone gathered at a shared table, being creative and connecting? I truly couldn’t ask for more. It’s that kitchen-table magic that makes these evenings so special.
The BYOP Projects This Week
The variety on the table was amazing to see. The “Bring Your Own Project” (BYOP) sessions are designed for flexibility, and last night was a variety:
- Diamond painting: Many in the group had never heard of this, so it was rather eye-opening for all of us to see Gemma put this stunning piece together!
- Cross-stitching and crocheting: Ekaterina was cross-stitching such an incredible piece (you’d have to see it in person to know how amazing it looked!), and Georgi is learning to find some calm in her craft of crocheting!
- Leather notebook making: That was me, because I want to use this to collect stamps in Japan!
- Acrylic painting: Moxa and Chisomo painted, and when I say WOW, I mean WOW. These pieces deserve to be on the wall!!
Watching everyone focus on their own craft while chatting away is exactly what The Craft and Current Club is all about. Whether you’re a pro or just starting a new hobby, there’s a seat for you.
Building a Craft Community in MK, Not Just a Club
Now that I’ve run the Craft Socials (BYOP) for two rounds, something has become very clear: this isn’t just a one-off event. We have a solid group of people who are already keen to rejoin and keep those new friendships growing.
Because of this, I’ve decided to change how I announce future events. While many craft clubs in Milton Keynes focus on “first-come, first-served” ticket sales, I want to focus on continuity. I want to help the people who have already met keep meeting.
How to Book Future Craft Events
Going forward, here is how you can snag a spot:
- WhatsApp group: I’ll be posting here first to prioritise our regulars and those building connections.
- The e-mail list: Next, I’ll send a blast to those who have asked to be the first to know about new dates.
- Social media: If there are any spaces left, I’ll post them publicly on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
I’m choosing community over “filling seats” because I believe that seeing the same friendly faces is how real, lasting friendships start.
What the MK Crafters Thought About Last Night
Gemma
From the moment I arrived at Bolly’s craft social, I felt instantly welcomed, it felt more like spending time with friends than attending a club.
I loved the bring-your-own-project idea, which created a relaxed, creative atmosphere. The pink walls, sweet treats, and lovely company made it feel super cosy, and I’m already looking forward to the next one. Bolly truly has a gift for hosting and puts so much heart into making everyone feel at home.
Ekaterina
I had such a wonderful time at the craft club! The atmosphere was incredibly inspiring and friendly. It was a joy to spend the evening working on my project alongside so many talented people. I’m already looking forward to the next one!
Chisomo F.
I was unsure what to expect as my first time to the byoc social and was a little nervous. I had nothing to worry about as Bolly the host was so friendly and so were the other guests. We were welcomed with a table of treats which I indulged in. It was lovely to get to know other local women who also love arts and crafts. It was an answered prayer. After moving in lockdown and not having a job locally it had been harder than expected to make friends and meet new people. This event ticked off that box well. I look forward to many more.
Moxa K.
I had a wonderful time yesterday at craft club! Bolly is an amazing host and I felt instantly welcome from the moment I walked in. It was great to be able to work on your own craft project and also see everyone’s amazing creative work. It was my first time attending and everyone was so friendly. Looking forward to attending more craft social sessions in the future!
Liana L.
I had a lovely time at the craft event. Hosting it in a home setting made it feel much more personal, relaxed, and truly welcoming. It was lovely to see how friendly and engaged everyone was. Thank you for creating such a positive, creative atmosphere. I’d absolutely love to attend again in the future!
Want to join the club?
If you’re looking for creative things to do in Milton Keynes and can’t wait for the next social, I still have a few places left for Sewcial Sunday. I’d love to see you there!