On the corner of Clyde and Brougham Streets in Ballarat sits a lovely white washed studio. It looks innocent and quiet from the outside in its idyllic peaceful setting, but don't let that fool you because all the fun and excitement happens within the inside of these walls! This is a very special studio which is famed throughout Instagram-land amongst the crafting and quilting communities.
Many famous names are known to frequent this address including (but not limited to): Ric Rac, Sarah Fielke, Kaffe Fassett, Tula Pink, Emma Jean Jansen, Gail Pan, Amy Butler, Joel Dewberry and Heather Ross.
What is this amazing place you may ask? It is the Cotton Factory of course!
Cotton Factory is the brain child of owner Alison von Bibra. It is described as being a community sewing space within Ballarat which "offers space for people to come and sit, sew, knit, learn and connect with other crafty types". The Cotton Factory offers classes in various types of craft including sewing, quilting, crochet, toy making, and handbag making. They also host children's parties where children can "leave with something they have created themselves and new skills."
Cotton Factory offers a selection of monthly clubs such as Aurifil, Cosmo and various designer fabric clubs. When on the premises you can use the Studio space, attend
classes or pick up supplies. Credit card facilities are available.
For those of you who are unable to visit in person, Cotton Factory has a small selection of items for sale via their website and also advertises items for sale via their Instagram Sale account .
 |
| Owner - Alison von Bibra |
 |
| Barbara and Jess shopping at the Cotton Factory |
 |
| A quilting class in progress at the Cotton Factory |
 |
| Sarah Fielke's "Enchanted" Quilt is currently on display. Her "Enchanted" fabric range is available here for purchase together with kits and the pattern for this quilt. |
 |
| View from the classroom area looking at the shop (left) |
 |
| View from the classroom area looking at the shop (right) |
Cotton Factory
128 Clyde Street
(Cnr of Brougham Street)
Ballarat, Victoria, 3350, Australia
Opening Hours:
Thursday, Friday & Saturday
10am to 3pm
 |
| My stash from the Cotton Factory - I purchased some low volume fat quarters, some yardage and my first ever reel of Aurifil. I often buy from them online and am a member of their monthly Cosmo Club. |
Well look at that. It's all about us. Thankyou Fiona. AvB
ReplyDeleteYou are very welcome my dear and I promise I will visit again. Had the best time!! Mwah xo
DeleteThanks for putting some photos to go with the hijinks that we see on Instagram. Looks like you had a fun time there (and a very restrained time judging by the small haul you took home). :)
ReplyDeleteso lovely to see Alison and the shop !
ReplyDeleteNow we all know what she looks like :)
Delete