Since founding her the craft group, Alex offers a safe and welcoming environment for anyone looking to meet new people and try their hand at crafting.

Alex Key, age 25, set up The Cosy Craft Club three months ago and runs free crafting sessions once a fortnight in Swadlincote.

Beaded keyring craft (Photo: Cosy Craft Club)

After becoming chronically ill after graduating university, Alex was left feeling isolated and without routine.

When Alex started attending local craft clubs with her nan in 2022 after becoming unwell, she found the groups were a 'lifeline', giving her something to look forward to weekly and a way to express herself.

She attended groups, including crotchet and multi-media art clubs, for several years until her nan passed away last year.

'I found it too difficult to return to the group we always attended as a pair, so after some time I began thinking about creating my own group in memory of my nan, with the help from P3 and Derbyshire Recovery Peer Support Services.

'Attending my first craft group made such a positive impact on my life, so I wanted to give local people a chance to try new crafts and meet new people.'

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Since opening, the club has had six sessions, including candle painting, making beaded keyrings, using airdry clay and mindful pattern painting.

'So far, I have had a great time running the group and have had positive feedback from those who have attended. I feel more confident and comfortable each session and I hope that our members get as much out of it as I do.'

Zentangle mindful painting activity (Photo: Cosy Craft Club)

One attendee that has been to two sessions said: 'The group is very friendly and not intimidating at all. I am not very crafty but it is fun to have a go at something new, it doesn't have to turn out perfect.

'It helps my mental health to have a routine and going to a group like The Cosy Craft Club gives me something to look forward to and everyone is very friendly.'

In the future, Alex would like to possibly join with other volunteers to be able to run the club weekly and would like to host fundraisers for the group in the future.

'The most important thing is to continue running a group that I love to host, with sessions that our members love to attend,' said Alex.

'To anyone who is thinking of attending, just give it a go! All of our sessions are free to attend, with donations towards supplies welcome, so you have nothing to lose if the group isn't right for you.

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'There will always be a friendly face to welcome you, and plenty of people to chat with. Whether you are an experienced crafter or want to try something totally out of your comfort zone, The Cosy Craft Club will provide a warm welcome.'

For regular updates about upcoming sessions and to find out more about the club, visit The Cosy Craft Club Facebook page or email Alex at [email protected]