"Memories are made of things." That is my motto and one I hope you will agree, comes with a handmade gift.  I've always been interested in making things. My mum, Elizabeth, taught me how to sew and knit and I love creating things that are different to what you can buy in the shops.

 

I love upcycling as I like the "old fashioned" look. My dream would be to own a haberdashery shop one day with large glass counters that display buttons and bits & pieces; or if that isn't possible, a mobile vintage crafting caravan for that feeling of nostalgia. 

 

It is with my Mum's inspiration and wisdom that I have created my business and so I feel I have her "spirit in every stitch".  I am a horder so no item is ever wasted. I have the make do and mend approach and have a button box that is bigger than the one my Mum used to have, and which I would always have a root through. I am the proud owner of several Singer sewing machines (hand cranked) along with a couple of vintage electric models as well as the modern equivalent.  My mum and her siblings were growing up during WW2 so all the girls were taught sewing. These talents later served them well with their own clothes and that of their families. The picture on the right shows my grandparents with my mum in the front right. All these clothes would have been handmade.

 

I still have clothes my Mum made me as a child, knitted toys made by my aunt and items from Mum's needlework box. These hold memories that are dear to me and bring a smile to my face.

 

Therefore buying a handmade gift will hold a memory and never lose its meaning.

 

Helen