Dear Gems,
As I'm sure you know, finding interesting, unusual, copious and cheap materials
for craft activities can be tricky. But I have recently discovered our local
Community Scrap Store, Squirrels. It's in Sutton, Surrey so isn't exactly handy
for everyone, but if you live/work in the area you'd be missing a trick not to
join.
This place is a real treasure trove, with huge amounts of the most brilliant
stuff all for free!! I was looking for bits and bobs to beef up a junk modelling
session, and found lids, pots, old toys (the Power Rangers were surprisingly
unpopular, being sneered at by the majority of the 8+s) and the tops of pump-
action dispensers which were so dalek-like I got a whole carrier bag full!
'So what?' I hear you cry. Well, Squirrels is seriously under threat due to
various borough council decisions (or non-decisions). It would be a dreadful
loss if this community resource had to close. If anyone knows of any potential
funding streams/sponsors/partnerships/advice I'd be glad to pass on all
suggestions to Squirrels. Or if you're in the area, head over there and join!
This is from the website;
http://hometown.aol.co.uk/commuscrapscheme%20/myhomepage/refpage.html
The Squirrels (CSS) provides art & craft materials to schools, playgroups,
hospitals, uniformed groups and all kinds of community organisations. We
operate by collecting donated waste and surplus materials from local
businesses. They are sorted and displayed at our store in Sutton, Surrey.
Organisations pay an annual membership fee and collect them for play, art and
recreational activities.
Thanks for your time, have lovely weekends,
Caroline
Caroline Burt
Museum Learning and Access Officer
Kingston Library and Heritage Setvice
020 8547 6754
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