COPELAND FABRIC & WOOL: A creative hub in the heart of Cleator Moor
COPELAND FABRIC & WOOL
A creative hub in the heart of Cleator Moor
by Danni Murphy
In December, Copeland Fabric and Wool opened its doors in Cleator Moor with more than just a business opportunity in mind.
The shop was created to serve as a community hub, bringing people together through creativity, crafts, and conversation, all while supporting a mission to raise funds for Ward 4 at West Cumberland Hospital.
Marie Hunter, who opened the shop last month, has brought something truly special to Cleator Moor. Not only has she provided the local community with a place to browse and purchase haberdashery supplies, but the ultimate goal of the shop is to become a gathering space for creative individuals. Whether they are beginners looking to learn through workshops or skilled hobbyists seeking to connect with others who share similar interests, the shop is open to all.
The new store offers a wide range of crafting essentials tailored to meet the needs of every creative. Whether customers are into sewing, knitting, or other crafts, the shop stocks a curated selection of high-quality fabrics, wool, and tools to support every project.
In addition to the retail offerings, the shop is excited to introduce craft workshops. These workshops provide a chance for crafters to learn new skills, meet fellow enthusiasts, and explore their creativity in a supportive environment. In 2025, the shop will expand its offerings to include a variety of workshops and drop-in sessions, covering a wide range of crafts beyond sewing and knitting. Marie hopes to introduce pottery, decoupage, painting, and much more.
The future will also see the addition of children’s sessions, designed to help young learners develop practical skills like sewing and knitting—skills that are often not taught in schools. Marie said,
“I want to create a place where everyone is welcome. The children’s classes will be adapted to allow the younger generation to explore and learn skills that they don’t often have the opportunity to try at school.”
The shop also hosts free morning drop-in sessions, where attendees can relax with a complimentary cuppa and biscuit. It’s the perfect way to spend a morning on one of their comfy sofas, crochet hook in hand, with a hot drink and good conversation. Guest professionals will also be hosting various classes over the year
In 2016, Marie tragically lost her daughter, and since then, she has been dedicated to celebrating her memory by raising money for charitable causes. She explained,
“This is our way of honoring Hannah’s memory. She was such a kind and giving person, and we want to do something that represents her. We donate as much as we can to Ward 4 at West Cumberland Hospital, which cares for elderly and dementia patients.”
“Recently, we donated a large number of bathroom and shower sets. It may seem small, but for someone spending a lot of time in hospital, even the scent of a lovely shower gel can make a difference and lift their spirits, even if just slightly.”
Marie’s goal is to raise £13,000 for the ward over the next year. “I’m confident we can do it. We’ve already raised £4,000, and I’m hopeful we’ll reach our target by this time next year.”
With Copeland Fabric and Wool now firmly established in Cleator Moor, the community has gained a vibrant, community-driven hub. The future looks bright for Marie and her team. She concluded, “It’s not about making loads of money; it’s about looking after the community and giving the crafting community a real home—a place to come together, socialise, combat loneliness, and learn from one another.”
Copeland Fabric and Wool can’t wait to welcome visitors to the new space and continue this crafting adventure together. Thank you again for your continued support!
Copeland Fabric & Wool
73A High Street, Cleator Moor CA25 5BW
www.copelandfabricandwool.co.uk
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