Testimonials

There is much more to learn with Betty Ann and her team than hooking. I had the most wonderful, enriching week in the company of generous, kind and devoted teachers as well as meeting members of their community. I have always had an affection for Chéticamp and now pleased and proud to have made a deeper connection. Chéticamp style hooking is precise and a bit of a challenge and I came home thoroughly respectful of the skill and the heritage. That slogan about Cape Breton is especially true here — your heart will never leave.

Stella Trainor, Ontario (2026)

Betty Ann has built strong, collaborative, and trusting relationships with her clients, whether it is through her work as a social worker or teaching the unique Chéticamp style of rug hooking. Her pleasant personality and how she connects with others – including families, individuals, and organizations is paramount. She demonstrates this every day with everyone at work and in the Community.

Linda Alderdice, Nova Scotia (2026)

Keeping the Home Fires Burning _ I was thrilled to meet Betty Ann at TIGHR in 2024, and to be able to buy some proper Chéticamp supplies and mats. Seeing so many people practicing hooking (with the curious little hooks her husband makes) really brought Betty Ann’s work home to me. It’s not just technique or a tool or some pieces of yarn – this style of hooking is a central puzzle piece in the historic jigsaw of our shared hooking history. It is so heartening and joyful to see new people coming to Chéticamp hooking, in classes and workshops being offered. These are workshops that celebrate the entire culture and region that is the backdrop and the backstory of the Chéticamp lore. I know a lot of people who travelled to the C.H.A.R.M. Experience workshop last year and found it to be a spiritual and inspirational once-in-a lifetime experience. I will always be eternally grateful to Betty Ann for the ongoing work she does to keep this chapter of rug hooking history both alive and vibrant. Without her dedication the Chéticamp style would be a t risk of extinction, and all of us would be the poorer for it.

Deana David, Ribbon Candy Hooking (2026)

I have greatly enjoyed collaborating with Betty Ann Cormier on multiple Cheticamp classes. She is an exceptionally knowledgeable and passionate teacher who brings depth, care, and integrity to her work. Betty Ann’s generosity in sharing her expertise, combined with her thoughtful and supportive approach to teaching, creates a welcoming and enriching learning environment for students at all levels. It is a pleasure to work alongside her, and I deeply value her commitment to both the rug hooking and the people she teaches.

Robin Whitford, Hooking Outside the Lines (2026)

This is a quick email to let you know how much I enjoyed our zoom lesson on the Cheticamp style rug hooking! It was a pleasure to learn some Cheticamp techniques. And a bonus to hear of the historical journey surrounding this style. As a novice in this textile art I appreciated your tailoring the lesson to meet my needs I am happy to recommend the experience to all comers.

Wendy Hamilton, Ottawa (2026)

In the fall of 2025, I was fortunate enough to attend Betty Ann Cormier’s inaugural C.H.A.R.M.E. (Chéticamp Hooking and Rug Making Experience) rug hooking school. It was all of that and more. Betty Ann’s knowledge of this rug hooking tradition is unmatched. Even more impressive is her generosity in sharing both her expertise and her techniques for creating beautiful works of art. Her team of teachers was incredibly patient and an absolute joy to learn from.

Beyond the art of hooking, Betty Ann immersed us in the culture of the region, introducing us to local people who live and love this rich tradition. We enjoyed the area’s music, local cuisine, and warm hospitality, making the experience truly unforgettable. I left not only a better hooker but deeply inspired.