‘Creative Crochet By Shani,’ a new crochet store and workshop venue by Shani Moore, has opened in Swindon, combining the joy of crafting with community care.

Opened in June 2024, the business quickly became a retreat for craft enthusiasts and those seeking a calm escape. With a focus on mental well-being, Shani’s space welcomes all skill levels, helping people connect and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of crochet.

The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with over 400 clients and dozens of 5-star Google reviews. In response to demand, workshops expanded from two sessions a week to two each day, leading to a doubling of workshop capacity. Many clients say crochet has helped them manage stress and anxiety.

At its core, Creative Crochet by Shani is committed to supporting mental health. Certified as a Mental Health First Aider, Shani collaborates with local charity Best Mates, led by Jeff Tucker, to offer additional support. Workshops provide a safe space to open up, with Shani available for support.

Jeff Tucker remarked: “By working together, Shani and I are building a powerful network of support that empowers people to seek help and find camaraderie on their journeys. This partnership not only underscores the importance of mental health but also highlights the incredible impact local initiatives can have on our community. Together, Best Mates and Creative Crochet by Shani are making strides in Swindon, quickly becoming the town’s best-kept secret in mental health support and community engagement.”

The business has also quickly become a hub for creativity, hosting sold-out crochet retreats and masterclasses in other crafts, such as macramé and wreath-making. These events have cultivated a tight-knit community where participants can relax, connect, and immerse themselves in a shared love of crafting.

Crochet’s therapeutic benefits are widely recognised, and Shani is determined to make the craft accessible to everyone, including men, who are often underrepresented in creative spaces. By breaking down gender stereotypes, she hopes to show that crochet is a powerful tool for anyone seeking a creative and calming outlet.

In under six months, Creative Crochet by Shani has achieved nearly £18,000 in revenue, a testament to the strength of its offering and the support of the Swindon community. Looking ahead, Shani plans to expand her range of unique crochet patterns—particularly her signature Gonks—and host additional retreats to meet growing demand.

With creativity and mental well-being at its heart, Creative Crochet by Shani is poised to become a cornerstone of Swindon’s craft scene, offering residents a place to learn, heal, and connect through the art of crochet.

For more information on Creative Crochet by Shani, visit www.creativecrochetbyshani.co.uk.