Woolly Wellness & the
Mystery Stitch (2021)

 

This project was funded by Selly Oak Neighbourhood Network Scheme.

Additional places were funded on this project by 

During the winter and pandemic of 2020-21, we sent a dose of woolly wellness and some stitching activity for 120 people to enjoy in from their own home!

We wanted to help residents aged 50+ in Selly Oak Constituency (mainly from Brandwood & Kings Heath and Billesley areas) to feel more connected to each other during the lockdown as well as colder months. We also connected with a few stitchers from Edgbaston and Hall Green constituencies, thanks to a top up grant from neighbouring Neighbourhood Network Schemes.

In each Woolly Wellness box there were four canvas tiles, a variety of wools, stitch patterns and a needle. We also included a tea bag, biscuits, writing paper, envelope and a stamp. From month two of this five month project we also included a community magazine, to which the stitchers contributed stories, memories, what they had been up to during lockdown, craft projects, tips for good walks and book reviews!  We loved receiving letters, emails and pictures. These were published each month.

The ‘mystery’ was that no one knew (except Tina) what they were stitching, and how the different designs of tiles fitted together into a sixteen-piece mural which the stitchers could keep. This was revealed in the final box. The designs were all inspired by Birmingham’s history, architecture or sculpture. There were lots of interesting guesses along the way!

Alongside the lovely box dropping on door mats each month, there were opportunities to meet online in Zoom calls and Facebook Live events. A private Facebook group for the project also kept people chatting and sharing pictures during the rest of the month.

We then also organised two ‘in person’ meet ups when restrictions allowed, and it was so good to finally meet some of our participants.  A group have decided to continue meeting once a month in Billesley – and yes, they are still called the Mystery Stitchers!

How did people feel when they were stitching?

Testimonials

“I am stuck in the house with not being able to do a lot… Lockdown did not help, as I had no people to contact or feedback. U both have been a life saver, as I think I am getting some fight back”
Mystery stitcher
Mystery stitcher
“Another thing that has helped has been the Woolly Wellness Mystery Stitch. I was told about it by a friend, and I am so grateful to her for telling me about it, and to you for setting up such a wonderful group. It is great to feel part of something so enjoyable that links lots of different people together. I have enjoyed the chats, the hints and tips, and hearing about places to walk etc. My first box arrived on the morning of my routine mammogram, so it immediately improved my day, even before I had opened the box - what great timing - it certainly contributed to my wellness that day! Thank you, Tina and Suze, for devising this wonderful project and making it all happen. It has lifted my spirits and opened my eyes to community stitching - something I would love to do more of.”
Mystery Stitcher
Mystery Stitcher
“I really enjoyed the Zoom call this afternoon. Listening to just a few of the ladies' comments this afternoon I hope you realise how much the ‘Mystery Stitch’ project has meant to all of those taking part The challenging times we all find ourselves in has been made almost bearable by having something creative to do - you have put a lot of work in to bring us together as well as getting us stitching. From looking forward to the postman popping the brown box through our door, finding the treats inside and enjoying a good read, all little things but put together they have meant a lot and I want you to know how much it is appreciated Thank You Suze and Tina for all you have done to make this project so good.”
Mystery Stitcher
Mystery Stitcher
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Number of people drinking tea and stitching!