It's been an *interesting* year, full of twists and turns, fires, floods, and a global pandemic to top it all off. People have suffered through all forms of adversity, and no one has been left untouched by this chaotic year.

We're taking our much needed break from the 24th December until the 1st of January, and it's with a happy heart that we say goodbye to this 2020 year, as we look forward to the new 2021. We've got some upcoming projects to look forward to, and hope you do too.

May your life be filled with creativity and imagination.

There has been a little confusion as to our re-opening, our fault completely as we updated every page on our website, except our blog.

As we all know, we are living through an interesting time, trying to negotiate the pandemic as well as staying safe ourselves and with our loved ones.

Our online store, as well as our mail order service are still in full swing, and our doors are open as per our usual shop trading hours.

We do have some strict protocols in place on entry to our premises. It is a condition of entry that all persons use the hand sanitiser provided before handling anything on premises. It an automatic spray device, using a hospital approved alcohol solution.

If you have allergies or dermatitis, we have disposable gloves for your use - please ask our friendly staff.

If you are uncomfortable in store without a mask, and have forgotten your own, we can provide a disposable mask - please ask our friendly staff. 

Stay safe, stay calm, be kind. 

The best way to explore the shops of Newtown is to get out of the car and walk. Better still, come by public transport and be prepared to spend the day (and night) discovering the many niche businesses that abound.

While King Street may be busy with cars, buses, trucks etc., the back streets of Newtown are a welcome break from the noise and busyness of the main drag. Full of pocket parks, for a sneaky picnic and  tranquil place of quiet contemplation, there is an astounding array of artwork dotted along the streets and lanes, ready for exploration.
 
I particularly love coming across a Will Coles concrete sculpture, often stuck down in a secluded spot as if thrown down with abandon. Another favourite is anything by Ears, and I was glad to see a prominent work by this artist on the wall of the New Theatre on south King Street.

Walk Newtown and discover your own preferences for the art that abounds. 
Marrickville Council has a map for self-guided tours, for more info, go to marrickville.nsw.gov.au/perfectmatch.
Or, follow @myinnerwest on Instagram or www.facebook.com/MyInnerWest and see if you can see what they see ;-)

The majestic crane is thought to be a highly symbolic bird throughout many cultures, and who can resist the beauty of the this splendid creature. 
To keep our creative forces flowing, we have folded a number of origami cranes, all the while mindful of their significance as a symbol for hope, love, honour and peace. 
Frank oversees our current display, resplendent in his red suit and purple heart, and invites you to delve in to your sewing room and unearth the pleasures that can be found there.