At Hillbilly Scrappin', we’ve been on a journey that’s been nothing short of magical. Three years ago, as circumstances nudged us all online, we decided to try something new—gathering crafters from all over for a virtual retreat. That first event sparked something beautiful, and since then, these retreats have blossomed into vibrant, welcoming gatherings where creativity and community thrive.
From Humble Beginnings to a Global Community
After moving to Hervey Bay, Queensland, and going entirely online, I knew I wanted to bring a unique, enriching experience to crafters. What began as a small, humble venture now draws participants from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Europe the USA, and beyond. And while we may be based in Hervey Bay, our reach and friendships now span continents!
I have had the incredible honour of welcoming internationally renowned tutors, alongside some of the best and brightest Australian talent, to guide our participants. These instructors are not just experts but are also generous, down-to-earth creatives who bring joy and encouragement to every class they teach.
Crafting an Inclusive, Affordable Experience
One of the core goals with these retreats is accessibility—crafting an experience that’s welcoming and affordable for everyone, whether they’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out. Our most recent retreat, Once Upon A Springtime, was packed with value: 16 interactive classes, daily prize draws, a raffle for a $150 voucher, and tons of smaller prizes for participation. Plus, everyone received a significant discount on store products, so they could grab any special items they might need without breaking the bank.
And let’s not forget the fun! We kick things off with lighthearted, no-pressure challenges, giving everyone a warmup before the four days of classes begin. By the time the weekend arrives, everyone is ready to dive into creative play, from mixed media to art journaling and more.
The Joy of Learning Together
One of the most rewarding parts of running these retreats has been seeing how our community members’ skills evolve. For repeat participants, each retreat offers a chance to try something new, stretch a little further, and discover new techniques. From layered textures to innovative use of everyday tools, the level of growth I see has been nothing short of inspiring. Mixed media has quickly become one of the most popular trends in paper crafting, and it’s a thrill to see our community dive into it with such enthusiasm and creativity.
A Welcoming, No-Pressure Approach
Our retreats aren’t about buying every tool on the market or building up endless supplies. We focus on making the most of what you have. Hillbilly Scrappin’ is all about empowering our participants to use what’s in their stash in new, imaginative ways. This approach has resonated with our participants, who love being able to explore their creativity in a relaxed, no-pressure environment where the focus is on fun and connection, not on accumulating materials.
A Heartfelt Community, Year-Round
Our Facebook group, Hillbilly Shenanigans, keeps the good vibes going all year. It’s where friendships are made, techniques are shared, and everyone feels like part of a family. Each retreat has its own private Facebook group and unique theme, bringing new excitement and magic each time around.
For me, the work that goes into these retreats is more than just event planning—it’s a true labor of love. The feedback I have received has been heartwarming, and I am so grateful to everyone who has joined us on this journey. Whether you’re a returning friend or considering joining us for the first time, know that you’ll be welcomed with open arms into a community that celebrates creativity, connection, and the joy of making.
Thank you for being a part of Hillbilly Scrappin’, and here’s to many more retreats filled with creativity, laughter, and friendship!
Love Jen xo