The ‘Follow That…‘at home’! Christmas Craft Fair is fast becoming quite a cult local event on the Christmas calendar with its ever-growing band of dedicated followers. The ‘Follow That…’ group of artists and craftspeople from Tain and surrounds have taken some of the pain out of Christmas shopping by inviting shoppers into the living room. Inge Smith, the Chair of the group, will be opening her doors to friends, supporters and anyone who is looking for that elusive Christmas gift, for a three-day extravaganza of crafts for the Festive Season.

Punters can enjoy the cosy atmosphere of the cottage, consume mulled wine and Christmas pies and gossip round the kitchen table whilst making their selections from an unusual and unique assortment of wares, all hand-crafted,  ranging from paintings to cards, including one-off original pieces of jewellery, stationery, accessories, scarves, ceramics, knitwear, decorations, handbags and much, much more. Shoppers will not only find delectable gifts for friends and family, but will be supporting their local arts and crafts community as well.

This way of shopping, pioneered by the group over the last 2 years, has proved to be remarkably successful. ‘People like the informal, friendly atmosphere of a home environment,’ says Inge. ‘Shopping in someone’s sitting-room, far from the stress and pressure of the High Street is rather like going to a tea-party. Because we don’t have huge overheads we can keep prices reasonable too. Last year we enjoyed it and our visitors left feeling happy and relaxed and glad to have met the people who make the crafts. We hope to make lots of new friends this year – all welcome!’

Check out this highlight of the Festive Season. The 3rd Follow that Christmas Craft Fair takes place between 12pm and 7.30pm on 3rd, 4^th and 5^th of December 2004 at 1 & 2 St Duthus Place, Chapel Road, Tain (follow signs for the Railway Station).