At first glance this appears to be an unassuming book, but once you start exploring, you find 128 pages of creative inspiration and work of many local makers in fabric crafts since 2020.

It’s more than a book. It’s a celebration.

Featured makers include: Robyn Sharp (knitter and artist), Peter Daley and John Mara (crochet), and unique plant dyed knitted pieces by Brian McCarthy.

But for every maker highlighted there are many more quietly and busily engaged in their inspired creations whether represented in the book or not.

Groups mentioned include Berry Spinners and Weavers, Kiama Quilters and Wrap With Love participants. Displays included those at Kiama Library, Gerringong Library and Museum (GLaM), Bonaira Care Home and Blue Haven Terralong independent living units, and each were hailed a success.

As we hurtle into a future dominated by uber-technology and AI, it sometimes takes displays like these and books like this to remind us of the significance of hand-crafting, not only for individuals but also for community-building.

Meticulously compiled by Boni and Peter Maywald, this book could also be described as a work of art, as it incorporates over 100 full colour photos, many taken by photograher Lea Tucker, that also offer a lot of thoughts to consider, including in the accompanying artist statements.

These provide a glimpse into the creative journeys of many of the participants.

Last, but not least, the Kiama Craft in COVID wall hanging is reproduced in its final form, with details of its origins and the inspirations behind the 50 makers involved.

This amazing wall hanging will be on display at Kiama Show along with the launch of the book.

At Kiama Show, 23-24 January: This book will be launched at 2pm next Friday (23 January) by Sandra McCarthy, along with the finished Kiama Craft in COVID wall hanging.

When visiting the Show, enter for a chance to win a Gift Pack that includes the book, at the book launch stand in the Pavilion.