Creative Fibre - Benefits of Membership

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What it means to be a member of NZSWWS (Creative Fibre)

It means you are part of a large organisation of people who are interested on all facets of the arts and crafts of fibre.
It means you have the opportunity to associate with and learn from people with similar ideas and outlooks and enjoy their friendship.
It means you are part of a living heritage of keeping crafts alive.
It means you have the chance to take part in workshops and lectures that are not available to the general public. If they are available to the general public members have priority and a reduced fee.
As part of a national organisation you have better access to funding opportunities and a greater chance of receiving funding whether locally of nationally, group or individual.
It means you receive the Creative Fibre magazine posted directly to you four times a year.
It means you are able to apply for scholarships when they are available through the Society.
It means you can view study collections which travel the country to inspire and educate members.
It means you are able to take part in correspondence courses run by the Society.
It means you are able to take part in a Self-Directed Learning Scheme where you decide what you wish to study and to what level.
It means you are able to hire videos and resources for viewing at your leisure.
It means you have the opportunity to purchase stationery, care labels and booklets at reasonable costs.
It means you are able to be part of an Advanced Spinning Group to explore spinning to the highest level you can.
It means you have the opportunity to join Cross Country Weavers.
It means you can take part in a Creative Fibre Festival held each year at various locations throughout New Zealand, with many activities and traders from all over the country.
It means you have the chance to exhibit in an annual National Exhibition, which is selected by a person of national or international repute in the textile field and with many awards, the largest being $2000.
It means you can have work selected to be shown in a National Parade of garments selected by people of repute. The Supreme Award is $1000.
Besides these national benefits you have the chance to partake in activities at regional level. NZ is divided into 15 Creative Fibre Areas each with its Area Delegate. Each Area is autonomous so their activities vary but all provide interest. Some activities include Retreats, Spin-Ins, Exhibitions, get-togethers etc.
There are also group activities. There is no size limit to a group; they may be large or small, concentrate on one facet of fibrecraft or cover all types.
All this is available for a fee of $20. Of course, there may be other small costs to enable groups and areas to function.