Scrunchie sales support key causes

IN 2020, seven-year-old Ruby decided to learn the skill of sewing to channel her creative energy in lockdown.

Mastering scrunchie-making, Ruby was energised each time she held a finished product in her hand, making some for friends and family members.

But after watching a documentary on the impact of fires on Kangaroo Island’s koala population, she decided to use her new sewing ability to make a difference, putting up a stall in her driveway to sell 100 scrunchies worth $250 for koala conservation.

Now an eight-year-old, Ruby got her own sewing machine for her birthday. She is selling her So Scrunchie branded hair accessories at The Workshop Café, supporting another cause close to her family’s heart.

“I’m selling my scrunchies to raise money for the Royal Children’s Hospital because my cousin goes there,” she said.

Ruby’s cousin has Gitelman syndrome, a rare kidney disorder which means she must take medication three times a day.

“She has to go the hospital to get a needle once a month. I think it’s important to raise this money because the work the hospital is doing is helping kids in need,” Ruby said.

“I love helping people and I love helping animals.”

Having raised at least $180 for the RCH in recent weeks, she has a goal to generate much more than last year’s fundraiser.

Ruby makes her scrunchies in various colours and patterns, choosing looks “that kids and adults will like,” and prides her handmade products on their high quality. She has even sent some to Melbourne, Queensland and as far as Dubai.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported me so far with my idea, and to The Workshop Café,” she said.

Her next project is to learn how to make doggie bandanas to match scrunchies.

“It’s easy to brush a child’s idea aside and say you don’t have the time, but if Ruby’s got an idea, we’re willing to help support it,” Sharon said.

“That way, she can see what is possible to achieve, and that you can make a difference.”