Paduri x Fortuna - a lucky workshop

The first knitting workshop with Fortuna took place on their fifth birthday, the perfect occasion to “knead” something made of wool, patience, and good energy instead of cake. In their space, with smiles and curiosity, a new chapter began for both Paduri and Fortuna.

The workshop was led by Milica Bainović-Jović, founder of Paduri, and brought together women from the association — parents of children with special needs. From the very beginning, it was clear this would be anything but quiet and serious. There was a bit of nervousness, but the sweet kind, the “what if everything slips out of my hands” type. As they said themselves, they handle serious responsibilities without fear, but before coming to the workshop, that felt like preparing for a big exam.

It quickly turned out the nerves were unnecessary. After just an hour and a half, the first stitches, first rows, and proud looks at their own work were already visible. Comments came faster than the yarn could roll: from “there’s no way I’ll ever learn this” to “wait, wait, I’ve already made a row!” Of course, playful remarks followed about how they would “outdo” one another by the next meeting.

The atmosphere was warm, cheerful, and full of support. Help was offered when things got tricky, mistakes were met with laughter, and every small success was celebrated. Experiences, advice, and little life stories were shared, and at one point almost everyone said the same thing, that this felt like the best kind of therapy after a long day.

In the end, knitting tools were packed to continue practicing at home, and everyone left with the feeling that their hands had learned something new while their minds had found a moment of rest. The first workshop wasn’t just about knitting, it was about togetherness, support, the courage to try something new, and the simple, beautiful satisfaction of realizing that you actually can.

And most importantly, everyone is already looking forward to the next gathering, because now that the first stitches are mastered, it’s clear this is only the beginning.