A drystock farm near the village of Glaslough, Co. Monaghan is set to become a whole lot busier with craft classes taking place in renovated outbuildings.

Geraldine Casey, a native of Dundalk, is running the classes on her partner Derek Heasty’s land. “I have always had an interest in making things and crafting. I had a home-based business in the 1980s, making gift items and supplying shops in Dublin,” she said.

“Over the years I began demonstrating and giving classes to groups. For a while I was a volunteer with Rehab in Dundalk and did craft classes with adults with learning difficulties.

“In between, I spent almost 20 years teaching singing; but, after moving to Monaghan two and a half years ago, travelling to Dundalk got a bit much and I was looking for a new outlet. My partner suggested renovating some outbuildings for me to work in, and the idea was born.”

Renovation work, which was funded by the couple, began in early May. “There were certainly some surprises as you would expect with a very old building, dating from the early 1800s,” she said.

I would like the craft farm to be a hub for people to gather, be creative and have fun.

The classes will be a mixture of morning and evening courses during the week, and half or full day on Saturdays. There will also be children’s classes during the school holidays.craft

Classes will be varied, incorporating favourites such as knitting, crotchet and sewing. Options such as: button art; decoupage; spinning; basket weaving; willow work; Clones lace making; and patch-working will also be offered.

The craft centre will additionally stock a range of: craft fabric; yarn; and knitting needles – as well as craft work.

People are welcome to drop in and have ‘crafternoon tea’, availing of the opportunity to do a craft, enjoy a cup of tea and a tray bake.

Those interested in taking part can make contact through Facebook or by phoning: 087-6484383.