A Cumbrian co-operative is bucking the economic trend with a move into larger retail premises

The Wool Clip is a Cumbria-based co-operative of sheep farmers, spinners, dyers, knitters, feltmakers, weavers and other wool workers set up in 2001 in the wake of the foot and mouth crisis to add value to local wool and to market members’ skills and products.

Since then it has been selling yarn and woollen goods, usually designed and created in Cumbria by its members, from its shop in The Priest’s Mill at Caldbeck. However, growing demand for Wool Clip’s products has led to the co-operative moving into larger premises.

When a larger unit in The Priest’s Mill became available at the end of last year, The Wool Clip grabbed the opportunity to expand.

"I don’t know whether it is a return to traditional crafts by younger people or the option of cheaper winter warmth from throws and scarves, hats and bed socks," said one founder member, Pam Hall. "We have had lots of new interest."

"We realised that a move would not only give us more room to display our own work but also the chance to create a gallery space," explained Linda Chapman, another of the Wool Clip members. "We are also setting aside an area for us to share techniques or help with customers’ problems with their own craft projects."

The Wool Clip – a member of Co-operativesUK – opened its new shop in the Priest’s Mill at Caldbeck on Saturday 14 February. It will be open throughout the year from 11am to 4pm (every day except Monday). The Mill is also home to a wholefood café and a jewellery maker.

The opening of the new shop comes quickly after Wool Clip won the North West Women in Business 2009 social enterprise award, which was announced at a ceremony in late January.

Wool Clip also organises the successful Woolfest – a celebration of natural fibres – in Cockermouth each June, this year to be held on Friday 26 and Saturday 27 June.

For more information about Wool Clip and the Woolfest visit www.woolclip.com