Leany de Lange is one of the original stallholders at Raglan Creative Market. Affectionately known as “The Bootie Lady”, Leany specializes in beautifully handcrafted footwear.
The great demand for her product has been generated by Leany’s love of creativity and innovation. She never intended to be crocheting ¾ length booties “just like gumboots”, but enjoys rising to the challenge of special requests including that of a local cafe owner to make a size 13 in red, blue & black.
Her product began with tiny booties for babies and has snowballed by catering to customers requests. A one man band, Leany crafted the pattern herself, does all the handwork and creates a great finish with leather soles.
In the past Leany used to spin & weave, selling her handcrafted jackets and cushions in craft galleries. This long history of involvement in the creative arts includes a Highly Commended Honour in the amateur section of the prominent Benson and Hedges Wool Awards for an amazing outfit of perindale wool.
Leany has also contributed her considerable skills in a previous role as a Rehabilitation & Diversional Therapist working with stroke patients in a Hamilton rest-home.
The Raglan Creative Market is held on the 2nd Sunday of every month at the Old School Arts Centre in Stewart Street. The market is a showcase for quality arts in the Whaingaroa region, including paintings and photography, woodcraft, healing arts, original fashion clothing and jewellery. Visitors can enjoy a freshly roasted coffee while they peruse the stalls for seasonal organic produce, free range eggs, homemade preserves and freshly baked breads.
Susan Guenther
Next Creative Market: Saturday 14th October
New Summer times: 9am to 2pm
New stallholders are always welcome. Visit our website www.raglanmarket.com. To find out more, contact The Old School Arts Centre on 07 825 0023 or market@raglanartscentre.co.nz.
