Ilkeston’s Creative Hive was started by two local hairdressers Nikola and Lauren during the first Covid lockdown.
Realising that their customers were missing the social aspect of seeing their hairdresser, they started a Facebook group for people to chat about what they were doing during the enforced stay-at-home.
Several of them turned out to be crafters, so the group Ilkeston’s Creative Hive was born. Members posted pictures of things they were making or had made, and they swapped hints and ideas.
Nikola and Lauren joined in and the FB group now has grown to over 2,000 members. Monthly craft fairs are held at Trowell Village Hall on the first Sunday of the month between 1 and 4pm.
Nikola said: “Thirty-six of our crafters display their work, including wax melts, knitted items, wood carvings, bags, wreaths, crystals, soaps, etc., in the beautifully refurbished hall. You can also buy refreshments and parking is free.
“Some of our crafters have said that the group helped them so much when their mental health was suffering, they come to each event and they have formed long lasting friendships.
“A lady in her 80s makes cards now instead of feeling isolated. Another lady whose disability had started to affect her mental health is now our moderator. These are the salt of the earth Ilkeston and surrounding area folk. I’m so proud so be part of their community.
“Some of our members don’t craft, they just love crafting items and come along to buy and have a catch up. “
The next craft fair is on Sunday 3rd July, 1 – 4pm.

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