The Craft Hub by April

Fiona36 — 2015-05-01 09:41:55 UTC

Juliet's Contribution to the Craft Hub

juliet_walsh — 2015-05-04 00:22:39 UTC

My contribution to the Craft Hub will be to develop a number of creative class activities aimed at teaching those attending, valuable employability skills and motor skills for the young and infirm. They will be aimed at category groups including Elderly,Adults, Teens and Kids and will offer a range of crafts to suit all interests. This will help to offer all age groups opportunities to create products to be sold at the market with varying skill sets,designs and creativity.

Mental Health Benefits of Creative Activities

juliet_walsh — 2015-05-04 00:42:46 UTC

By engaging people in the community, and in particular those who are at risk of mental health problems, we can encourage people to develop a renewed sense of self worth, mental stability and overall satisfaction within themselves. The use of creative activities such as woodworking, painting or sewing can help the individual to improve concentration, focus, stress relief, confidence, manual dexterity and to connect with other creative members of society. This blog talks about the benefits of creative activities and the Craft Hub will help people with this.

Example of a Similar Community Based Project: The Social Outfit

juliet_walsh — 2015-05-04 00:48:02 UTC

The Social Outfit is a great example of a programme aimed at empowering people, in this case the migrant community. They are trading social enterprise, by educating migrants in the fashion industry and have a shop were students creations are manufactured and sold. The Craft Hub would cater to a larger range of cultures of people, creating more diversity in the products produced to be sold.

Employability Skills and Why it is Important

juliet_walsh — 2015-05-04 00:57:01 UTC

Although Australia has seen a decrease in unemployment (now 6.1 percent), there is still a need to encourage and support those struggling to gain employment. By implementing classes aimed at specific employment skills such as communication, teamwork, problem solving, planning, organizing, self-management and technology, we can help ease people back or into the workforce. The below list of employability skills can help us shape the classes aimed at each group of people attending

Juliet Walsh

juliet_walsh — 2015-05-04 01:12:42 UTC

Discipline: Secondary Textiles Education

Project Role: Class Coordinator

Example of a Similar Community Based Project: Sydney Community College

juliet_walsh — 2015-05-04 01:16:40 UTC

Sydney Community College is another example - though aimed at catering for adults who are looking to gain skills in more interest based classes. The great thing about community college is its diverse teachers and classes. The Craft Hub would benefit from gaining teachers from a range of different backgrounds to help give options to attendees in areas that might interest them. Classes such as jewellery making, leather working, screen printing and pottery could all add to the diversity of products to be made and sold. It would also cater to both men and women in terms of interest areas. It would be great to then try to approach local makers such as fashion designers, screen printers, artists, etc to teach classes for the Craft Hub.

April Brown-Turner

AprilBT — 2015-05-04 08:59:56 UTC

Discipline: Digital Design Project Role: Design Lead

Example of Mental Health Benefits: Creativity Works

juliet_walsh — 2015-05-05 04:16:02 UTC

This is an example of how a social organization has used creative activities to help people to engage and empower themselves by improving their overall mental health.

Amy Gillett

ames687 — 2015-05-05 06:06:26 UTC

Discipline: Professional Writing

Project Role: Communications

My project role will involve researching the effectiveness of communication (team and attendees), along with required forms of written documentation needed prior to the development of the Craft Hub, such as funding applications and insurance. In addition, I will be researching the CAP needs in regards to:

- Council applications, - Newsletters, - Written documentation for the team, - Letters of introduction to our target audience, such as nursing homes, schools, organisations and so forth

April's Contribution to "The Craft Hub"

AprilBT — 2015-05-05 09:26:18 UTC

My role in this project will be to research what appeals to our target audiences visually, and use this information to create plans for the creation of promotional material for “The Craft Hub”.

I will consider the following in my planning:

Formatting, colour and size options
Placement of the material (Social media,

websites, public noticeboards, etc)

Promotion to specific target audiences.
The overall “vibe” of “The Craft Hub”

The Craft Hub - General Planning Information

Fiona36 — 2015-05-05 20:42:31 UTC

The Craft Hub is a community workshop which enables members of the community to get together and work on arts and crafts projects. At The Craft Hub, people will be able to develop their craft skills while learning different styles and techniques. The Craft Hub is a safe space at which people can connect and share in the joy of craft.

The items that are produced will be showcased and sold at The Craft Hub Marketplace each month.

Workshop planning document found at http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/206743/stepping-stones-workshops.pdf

Written Communication: The Importance of a Project Proposal

ames687 — 2015-05-06 05:56:51 UTC

Below is an example of a project proposal form that would be submitted with the grant application prior to the commencement of the CPA in an effort to gain funding for materials, advertising and so on.

Written Communication: Where to Start? Seeking a Council Grant

ames687 — 2015-05-06 06:01:22 UTC

Important information from the Newcastle Council website:

To be eligible for a ‘Make Your Place’ community grant, an applicant or project must meet all of the following criteria:

a. Relate to publicly accessible space within the Newcastle Local Government area. b. Involve a group of at least three people in planning and carrying out the project. c. Show evidence of local community involvement - this may also include local business(es). d. Deliver place activation. e. Deliver community benefit. f. Benefit existing and new users of the place with potential to increase community use in a positive way - by providing physical improvement, e.g. additional amenity, activity, comfort, appearance, or by encouraging use of the place through a community gathering.

Approaching Craft Orginizations for Teachers

juliet_walsh — 2015-05-06 08:34:45 UTC

It would be great to approach potential teachers from large community based orginizations including:

Australian Sewing Guild http://www.aussew.org.au/

Quilter's Guild of NSW http://www.quiltersguildnsw.com/about/

Leatherworkers Guild of NSW http://www.leatherworkersguildnsw.org.au/

Artist Blacksmith Assosiation NSW http://www.leatherworkersguildnsw.org.au/

Australian Lace Guild http://www.australianlaceguild.com.au/find%20a%20group/NSW%20Branch.shtml

Knitter's Guild http://www.knittersguildnsw.org.au/

Australian Ceramics Assosiation http://australianceramics.com/home/

Specialty Graphic Imaging Association http://www.sgiaa.asn.au/AboutUs.aspx

By gaining teachers with professional experience, we can ensure attendees are gaining high quality skills which can be applied to their products in the market.

Written Communication: Connecting with the Community - Council Newsletter

ames687 — 2015-05-07 23:44:57 UTC

The purpose of a newsletter is the inform the sector of upcoming community events, conferences, forums and professional training opportunities, for example.

A submission will be required prior to the kick-off date of the project, with the design lead implementing appropriate colouring, font and images to support the text. Newsletters can be received in hard copy form via post, of electionically through email and RSS (Real Simple Syndication) feeds.

Written Communication: Our duty of care - Public Liability Insurance

ames687 — 2015-05-08 00:12:21 UTC

We need to identify the risks involved in our project. We should think about the possible situations where a person could be injured or property could be damaged, even if they seem unlikely to occur. Below are some questions to consider when identifying risks:

When members of the public visit our project space, what are the risks of visitors getting injured (e.g. tripping over cabling, falling down a step)?
Is any valuable item stored in our project space (e.g. artwork, or equipment)?
Will any employee, volunteer or contractor be assisting us? Will their work involve any risk of getting hurt?
Will our productss carry the risk of malfunctioning or hurting the purchaser?

Team Communication: Goal Setting - Are we on the same page?

ames687 — 2015-05-08 05:03:35 UTC

Setting measurable and attainable goals is pivotal in the success of a team. Goals can take many forms, such as 'to do' lists, action plans, team expectations and measuring productivity. An example is the SMART goal: S = Specific M = Measurable A = Achievable R = Realistic T = Time bound Ensuring all team members, staff, and volunteers are on the same page can ensure higher levels of morale and motivation. In conjunction, having a visual prompt in the form of a list of goals encourages accountability and allows all involved to reflect on their progress.

Promotional Design Research - Hunt and Gather Markets

AprilBT — 2015-05-13 09:56:32 UTC

As preparation into the planning of the promotional material for "The Craft Hub", I have researched some similar events which have been successful in Newcastle.

The Hunt and Gather Markets in Newcastle have a dominant social media presence. Their Facebook and Instagram pages in particular rely heavily on visuals to promote their business. Their dominance on social media has led to a large following from younger age groups.

The poster art pictured below uses subtle colouring to create a raw and earthy vibe, suggesting to audiences that the goods sold at these markets are homemade. Yet, layered between these earthy tones, are pops of colour which attract the eye and signify a sense of modernism.

Promotional Design Research – The Olive Tree Markets

AprilBT — 2015-05-13 10:28:50 UTC

The Olive Tree Markets have a slightly different vibe to the Hunt and Gather Markets. Although both specialise in homemade goods, the Olive Tree Markets actively promotes this, and even encourages participation from their customers.

The below is a poster design for the Olive Tree Markets found on their Facebook page. The focus is a lot less on creating an artistic and well-balanced design, and more on showcasing the types of goods you will find on market day. It uses bold font to highlight important information, such as the name, place and time of the event.

Poster Design - Visual Considerations

AprilBT — 2015-05-19 09:34:29 UTC

In the design of the promotional posters for "The Craft Hub", the following considerations will be made:

Readability: Font type and size is vital in the design of posters. The main title will be 120 point bold text to ensure readability from a distance.
Font Style: San Serif font will be used as it is easiest to read.
Colour: Eye catching colours will be used to grab the attention of passers by.
Layout: A balance of images, text and white space will be used to ensure the poster doesn't become overcrowded.
Graphics: High resolution images will be used to create a professional look.

Attached below is a great document from the University of Liverpool containing tips for effective poster design.

Audiences

AprilBT — 2015-05-19 09:50:00 UTC

I have found the below definitions for the types of audiences. Consideration of which category each of our target groups fits into will be necessary when designing promotional material.

Specialist: Audience has a high level of knowledge and interest in the subject. There is a good understanding of unique terminology and practices. Detail and jargon can be used without fear of misinterpretation.

The Wider Field: The audience has limited knowledge of the subject, they may not be familiar with the more specialist terms and practices of the subject.

General: Little or no familiarity with the subject, explanations should be given in basic terms.

Written Communication: Letters of Introduction to Target Groups

ames687 — 2015-05-20 04:41:00 UTC

The below website details some interesting points in relation to communicating to your target audience. The Craft Hub relies wholly on it's attendees: mainly youth and the unemployed. Direct communication can be in the form of introductory phone calls, emails, pamphlets, and letters posted to employment agencies requesting referrals, or to youth organisations and charities.

The site asks "What are your main messages? A message is not the same as an advertising slogan or a marketing line; a message is a simple and clear idea that summarises the essence of your programme or projects. It should function as a guiding principle for all kinds of communications, from the contents of leaflets, brochures and websites, but also for media interviews or conversations with your stakeholders."

Amanda Osborne

afo_dreams — 2015-05-22 04:27:17 UTC

Discipline: Internet Communications

Project Role: Multimedia Coordinator

Contributing to The Craft Hub

afo_dreams — 2015-05-22 04:36:16 UTC

The Craft Hub offers a unique opportunity to engage with potential participants who cannot attend the centre due to distance or personal issues. That creativity projects are run at designated times where those who are interested can link in and be involved.

The cost of resources would be limited to a quality computer with webcam, and a facilitator to run the weekly session.

Let's get connected!

Who Benefits?

afo_dreams — 2015-05-22 04:47:39 UTC

It would be especially beneficial to those how have learning challenges, such as Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) yet a desire to create. Such programs would encourage involvement, maintain participants in a “safe and controlled” environment while allowing them to explore their creativity.

Once the program is fully functional, there is no reason it could not be expanded to include anyone limited by distance or personal issues and would like to explore their creativity.

What Does it Look Like?

afo_dreams — 2015-05-22 04:49:20 UTC

What do those with ASC look like? The Australian Bureau of Statistics: Autism in Australia, 2012 (http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/4428.0) suggests they make up 0.5% of Australia’s population of which 77.21% are male (Table 1.1), 70.4% are aged between 5 and 19 years of age (Table 1.2), 34.6% endure speech difficulties, 17.5% have nervous or emotional conditions, 15.3% have physical restrictions in their daily activities and a whopping 84.4% are slow at learning or understanding (Table 1.3).

Why?

afo_dreams — 2015-05-22 04:51:30 UTC

Many of those with ASC communicate through their creativity. It is an outlet and a place for them to feel engaged and interesting. Further, those with ASC tend to struggle in forming personal relationships due to their need to see everything in pictures before they may understand what is being said to them, and then, again see the pictures they need in order to respond. This can take time and unfortunately many "mainstream” people think they are just slow. The more experiences they have, the more pictures they accumulate in their minds, the more effective communicators they will be able to become.

How do we Calculate Success?

afo_dreams — 2015-05-22 04:52:47 UTC

The ultimate goal is to create an opportunity for those with ASC to familiarise themselves with new people and new ideas without a full on assault of their senses. Such opportunity is not intended to be limited to joining us at The Craft Hub, but allow those who prefer to participate remotely and / or to make their own group when they are ready.

Where do we Start?

afo_dreams — 2015-05-22 05:00:17 UTC

We start with schools that have level 6/7 HOSES programs and work out from there. This can be targeted nationally and not just to the Newcastle area. The programs will run after school hours specifically to encourage parents / carers / friends (etc) to be involved if the participant is younger or assistance is needed.

The program should not be particularly long, but at least once a week for one hour and the facilitator may be online for up to three hours for participants to log on and join in during that time.

It would be ideal for carers to complete a form outlining what type of creativity the participant likes to engage in, and build classes based on that. There needs to be an element of flexibility as some people may prefer to not go outside their creative process initially and simply explore their established artistic preferences.

It may also serve as a good outlet for carers to explore their creativity.

Web Design - Visual Considerations

AprilBT — 2015-05-25 09:29:51 UTC

The below link contains valuable tips for designing a web page. It outlines the use of typefaces, layouts, colours and images, an includes web specific design considerations such as navigation and load time.

Social Media - Using Visuals

AprilBT — 2015-05-25 10:14:01 UTC

The below link highlights the importance of using visuals in social media campaigns. It also lists useful tools (apps and programs) to aide in the creation of visual material, and outlines the most popular types of visual content on social media.

Designing for Target Audiences - Age Groups

AprilBT — 2015-05-25 10:24:09 UTC

When designing promotional material it is important to consider your target audience. As our workshops are split into age groups, it is important that the advertising campaign is suited to the needs of each specific age group.

The below link explains why it is important to make your designs accessible and lists examples of how to target each age group (children, teens, adults and the elderly).

While the information provided is based around web design, the general principles outlined are transferable for other forms of design.

Attendee Communication: Inclusive Language

ames687 — 2015-05-25 23:11:04 UTC

Inclusive language does not stereotype, belittle or exclude an individual based on gender, race, sexuality etc. As our workshop will target a multitude of people of different ages and backgrounds, it is our responsibility to respect these differences and ensure the language (both written and verbal) is non-discriminatory. This applies to our introductory letters, all promotional activities, newsletters, along with face-to-face contact during the workshops themselves.

Written Communication: Public Service Announcement

ames687 — 2015-05-26 00:02:10 UTC

Traditionally, a Public Service Announcement (PSA) is a method for a non-profit organisation to spread their message without charge. The main goal of a PSA is to encourage action. In our case, the action could be to recruit volunteers, or raise awareness for those in our target audience we wish to attend.

Key features of an effective PSA:

- Clear and concise,

- Make the point of the notice obvious

- Limit jargon or unnecessary words

- Focus on the expected results

- Use 'real' language

- Identify the organisation

- Make it emotional and relateable

For more handy tips:

http://www.casemo.org/ShowMe-PALS/HowToWriteAPSA.pdf

Facebook - Design, Layout and Dimensions

AprilBT — 2015-05-26 08:52:05 UTC

The below cheat sheet details the layout and measurements of each image field on Facebook. This will be used as a reference point when designing images specifically for Facebook, i.e. profile pictures and cover photos.

Instagram - Design, Layout and Dimensions

AprilBT — 2015-05-26 09:07:39 UTC

The below cheat sheet details the layout and measurements of each image field on Instagram. This will be used as a reference point when designing images specifically for Instagram.

As all images on Instagram are viewed as squares, image editing programs / apps can be used to format photos into different shapes with the addition of frames.

Facebook Design - Planning

AprilBT — 2015-05-26 09:46:01 UTC

The following will be considered in the design of promotional material for "The Craft Hub"

Theme: The theme of "The Craft Hub" Facebook page will be an artsy / vintage theme, to fit in to the bohemian scene in Newcastle.
Cohesiveness of line and colour: When designing banners and logos for use on our Facebook page, linkages will be made using line and colour to create flow.
Image size: Profile pictures and cover photos will be created to exact dimensions, to ensure images are clear, crisp and in focus.
Groups and likes: When selecting which pages to like on Facebook, consideration will be given to the visual content of these pages. This will ensure that the images showing on The Craft Hub profile will fit in with the theme of the page.

An example of cohesive use of colour, line and texture can be seen in the example below.

Instagram Design - Planning

AprilBT — 2015-05-26 09:52:40 UTC

Similar to the Facebook plan, the following design considerations will be taken into account when planning "The Craft Hub" Instagram page:

Theme: The theme of "The Craft Hub" Facebook page will be an artsy / vintage theme, to fit in to the bohemian scene in Newcastle.
Image size: Images uploaded to Instagram will be created to the exact square dimensions, to ensure images are clear, crisp and in focus.
Colour: To create a sense of flow throughout our Instagram page, the filter "rise" will be used to edit all pictures.

The example Instagram profile below creates flow with the use of highly contrasted images of a central female figure.

Written Communication: Requesting Sponsorship from Local Businesses

ames687 — 2015-05-29 02:57:12 UTC

In an effort to encourage local business's to assist the Craft Hubs needs for products and materials, an informal sponsorship proposal could be tailored to each business, detailing our needs. A compelling and engaging message would need to be drafted in an effort to gain interest. Traditional letter conventions would be followed. Below is an example of how to structure the proposal.

Goals

AprilBT — 2015-05-31 05:00:42 UTC

To connect members of the community
To provide a safe space
To foster the development of new skills
To raise areness and funds for charity

Venue

AprilBT — 2015-05-31 05:03:04 UTC

Newcastle Community Arts Centre

Key Dates

AprilBT — 2015-05-31 05:04:43 UTC

The Craft Hub will run throughout the school term, breaking for the holiday periods.

Session times are as follows:

Wednesday 6pm-8pm - 'The Craft Hub: Youth Workshops'
Thursday 9am-11am - 'The Craft Hub: For Adults'
Saturday 3pm-5pm - 'The Craft Hub: Craft Enthusiasts'
Saturday 12md-2pm - 'The Craft Hub: For Kids'

The Craft Hub Marketplace takes place on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month from 8am-12pm

Sponsorship

AprilBT — 2015-05-31 05:06:40 UTC

A number of local business will supply The Hub with their discarded materials at the end of each week.
A number of craft supply donation boxes will be established around the neighborhood for people to dispose of their spare wool and material scraps etc.
A small percentage of the money raised on market days will be put into The Craft Hub budget and used on supplies and equipment

Catering and Childcare

AprilBT — 2015-05-31 05:08:39 UTC

The Craft Hub will rely on volunteers within the community to fullfill these duties and rosters will be established each term.

Promotion

AprilBT — 2015-05-31 05:11:10 UTC

The Craft Hub will be promoted in various ways throughout the community, including:

Website
Facebook
Instagram
Posters and flyers