SWINDON, United Kingdom, Nov. 14, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A new crochet store and workshop hub, Creative Crochet By Shani, has officially opened in Swindon, offering a unique blend of artistic expression and mental health support. Founded by multi-business owner Shani Moore, the vibrant store has quickly become a haven for craft enthusiasts and individuals seeking a therapeutic escape from daily stress.
Since its launch in June 2024, Creative Crochet By Shani has rapidly gained popularity, attracting over 400 clients and earning more than 30 five-star Google reviews. What started with two weekly workshops has expanded to two daily sessions, reflecting the growing demand for the craft’s calming and therapeutic effects. The success has prompted the store to double its workshop capacity to accommodate the influx of participants.
At the heart of the business is Shani’s passion for crochet and a commitment to supporting mental well-being. Many of the store’s visitors describe crochet as their form of therapy, with the repetitive motions offering relief from stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. For Shani, the store is more than just a space for crafting—it’s a sanctuary where people can unwind, connect, and share experiences in a welcoming environment.
Mental Health Support at the Core of Creative Crochet
Shani, a certified Mental Health First Aider, has partnered with Best Mates, a local mental health charity led by Jeff Tucker, to further support the emotional well-being of her clients. Together, they aim to provide resources and safe spaces for individuals to talk about their mental health struggles. Many visitors have found that the workshops offer not only creative fulfillment but also a sense of community and emotional support.
Jeff Tucker, co-owner of Best Mates, praised the collaboration, saying: “Shani and I are building a powerful network of support that empowers people to seek help and find camaraderie. This partnership underscores the importance of mental health and demonstrates the impact of local initiatives on our community. Creative Crochet By Shani is quickly becoming Swindon’s best-kept secret for mental health support and community engagement.”
A Growing Community of Creatives
In addition to crochet workshops, Creative Crochet By Shani has become a hub for a wide range of creative activities, hosting sold-out retreats and masterclasses on other crafts, such as macramé and wreath-making. These events have fostered a close-knit community, where participants can relax, create, and forge meaningful connections.
Shani is particularly focused on breaking down gender stereotypes within the crafting world, striving to make crochet accessible to all. She aims to encourage more men to engage with the craft, which is often perceived as a female-dominated activity. By doing so, she hopes to show that crochet can serve as a therapeutic outlet for anyone seeking a creative and relaxing hobby.
Success and Future Growth
In less than six months, Creative Crochet By Shani has generated nearly £18,000 in revenue, a testament to the store’s strong offerings and the support of the local community. Looking ahead, Shani plans to expand her range of exclusive crochet patterns, including her popular Gonks, and offer additional retreats to meet growing demand.
With its focus on creativity and mental health, Creative Crochet By Shani is poised to become an integral part of Swindon’s crafting scene, providing a space for residents to learn, heal, and connect through the art of crochet.
