AUTUMN 2018 AVON • Direct Sewing Machines, Bristol – 0117 9778216
AMAZING
BEDFORDSHIRE
ANNIVERSARY
• BSK Limited, Bedford – 01234 217096 • My Sewing Basket, Dunstable – 01582 969571 • Tudor Rose Patchwork, Oakley, Bedford – 01234 824983
BERKSHIRE • Sew Devine, Reading – 0118 926 8664
OFFERS FROM £99
BUCKINGHAMSHIRE • Alans Sewing Machines, High Wycombe – 01494 527600
CAMBRIDGESHIRE • Sew Creative Ltd, Cambridge – 01223 350691 • Sew Much To Do, Ely – 01353 664 000
CHESHIRE • Allan Sheen Sewing Machines, Winsford – 01606 593554 • Jaycotts, Chester – 01244 394099 • J & P Sewing Machines, Warrington – 01925 633831 • Phil Morton Sewing Machines, Macclesfield – 01625 433131
CORNWALL • The Sewing Studio, Redruth – 01209 216942
DERBYSHIRE
LONDON (GTR) • All Redgewell Sewing, South West London – 02083 373444 • Lewisham & Deptford Sewing Machines, Deptford – 02086 921077 • SM Sewing Machines Ltd, London – 02036 891222 • The Sewing Centre, Battersea – 02072 283022 • The World of Sewing, Pratts Bottom – 01689 638638 • Wimbledon Sewing Machine Co Ltd, Tooting Bec – 02087 670036
MANCHESTER (GTR)
• Elegance, Derby – 01332 382292 • Ilkeston Sewing & Janome Centre, Ilkeston – 01159 307664 • Sew Essential, Moira – 01283 210422
• Bamber Sewing Machines, Manchester – 01617 077786 • R. Bullock & Son Ltd, Wigan – 01942 247836
DEVON
MERSEYSIDE
• Exeter Sewing Machine Company, Exeter – 01392 275660 • Soft Touch Needlecrafts, Tavistock – 01822 617673
DORSET • Bournemouth Sewing Machines, Bournemouth – 01202 424825 • Hansons Fabrics, Sturminster Newton – 01258 472698 • So N Sews, Weymouth – 01305 766411
ESSEX
NEW M
• Affordable Sewing, Moreton, Wirral – 01516 777755
BRAND NEW
NORFOLK
OFFER
• Sew Creative, Norwich – 01603 305888 • Sewing Machine World, Kings Lynn – 01553 773362
NORTHUMBERLAND • The Sewing Box, Morpeth – 01670 511171
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
MODEL GD8100
Easy to use... Make eth! e right choice first tim
£299
• Creative Lady, Burnham on Crouch – 01621 928225 • Franklins, Colchester – 01206 563955 & 574758 • Franklins, Chelmsford – 01245 346300 • Home of Sewing by Regent, Ilford – 02084 780669 • Superstitch Machine Co, Leigh on Sea – 01702 478830
• Cresswell Sewing Machines, Nottingham – 01159 267572
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
SHROPSHIRE
YORKSHIRE
• Sewing Machine Centre, Shrewsbury – 01743 343902
• Arcade Sewing Machines, Huddersfield – 01484 429808 • C & G Sewing Machines, Bradford – 01274 306352 • Electra (DA) Company, Doncaster – 01302 340369 • Fabric Mouse, Richmond – 01748 811593 • L & C Fabrics, Hull – 01482 325072 • Sewing Centre, Scarborough – 01723 363167 • White Rose Sewing Machines, Harrogate – 01423 503767
• The Patchwork Basket, Newent – 01531 822442 • West End Sewing Centre, Cheltenham – 01242 244025
HAMPSHIRE
OXFORDSHIRE • Witney Sewing Machine Centre, Witney – 01993 704535 / 702772
SOMERSET • Bredons Sewing Machines, Taunton – 01823 272450
• Eastleigh Sewing Centre, Eastleigh – 02380 650808 • Hampshire Sewing Machines, Fareham – 01329 280499 • Reads of Winchester, Winchester – 01962 850950 • Sew Creative, Petersfield – 01730 858020
SUFFOLK
HEREFORDSHIRE
• All Surrey Sewing, Worcester Park – 02083 373444 • C & A Sewing Machines, Cranleigh – 01483 267777 • Woking Sewing Centre, Addlestone – 01932 352606
• Doughtys Fabric Warehouse, Hereford – 01432 353951
HERTFORDSHIRE
• Franklins, Ipswich – 01473 221188 • Sew Much To Do, Bury St Edmunds – 01284 755459
SURREY
• Chicks Embroidery, Letchworth – 01462 670007 • Rebecca Woollard Sewing School, Hatfield Heath – 07887 654717 • Rona Sewing Machines, Waltham Cross – 01992 640250 • Sewfine Sewing Machines, Watford – 01923 693734
SUSSEX
KENT
• G Tully Sewing Machines, Sunderland – 01915 65 7995 • Sewing Machine Sales, Whitley Bay – 01912 525825
• Ashford Sewing Centre, Ashford – 01233 620948 • Barcham Sewing Centre, Whitstable – 01227 264271 • Maidstone Sewing Centre, Maidstone – 01622 670254 • The Sewing Space, Kent – 01303 261329 • The World of Sewing, Tunbridge Wells – 01892 533188
LANCASHIRE • Hobkirk Sewing Machines, Blackburn – 01254 693555 • Lestan Sewing Machines, Nelson – 01282 614511 • SA Sewing Machines, Oldham – 0161 6243181 • SA Sewing Machines, Rochdale – 01706 355529 • Transworld Sewing Machines, Leigh – 01942 608028
LEICESTERSHIRE • Cresswell Sewing Machines, Leicester – 07798 625 278 • The Sewing Café, Hinkley – 01455 698034
LINCOLNSHIRE • Couling Sewing Machines, Lincoln – 01522 521841 • L & C Fabrics, Cleethorpes – 01472 600874 • Seweezy, Gainsborough – 01427 614570
www.janome.co.uk
• Clothkits Ltd, Chichester – 01243 533180 • Eclectic Maker, Worthing – 01903 681000 • Hastings Sewing Centre, Hastings – 01424 423108
TYNE & WEAR
WARWICKSHIRE • Coventry Sewing Centre, Coventry – 02476 222134
WILTSHIRE • Franklins, Salisbury – 01722 554466 • West Wilts Sewing Machine Co., Trowbridge – 01225 753792
WEST MIDLANDS
CHANNEL ISLANDS • Rachel’s Textiles Studio, Jersey – 01534 878877
ISLE OF MAN • Joan’s Wools & Crafts, Onchan – 01624 626009
IRELAND • Sew N Knit Belfast, Belfast – 02890 456015 • Sew N Knit Lisburn, Lisburn – 02892 670908 • Singer Sewing Centre, Ballymena – 02825 640034
SCOTLAND • Aberdeen Sewing Machines, Aberdeen – 01224 478555 • Abbey Sewing Machines, Dumfries – 013872 49580 • David Drummond, Edinburgh – 01315 397766 • ESC, Fochabers – 01343 823961 • Pembertons Sewing Machines, Stirling – 01786 462993 • Quilt Creations, Inverness – 01463 719369 • The Sew Studio, Dunfermline – 01383 621894
• Brewers Sewing Machines, Wolverhampton – 01902 458885 • D C Nutt Sewing Machines, Walsall – 01922 497603 • Frank Nutt, Kings Heath – 01214 443978 • L & M Nutt, Sutton Coldfield – 01213 735497 • S Nutt Sewing Machines, Birmingham – 01213 272828
WALES
WORCESTERSHIRE
The ‘Sewing with Style’ offers are available from Janome sewing machine retail outlets nationwide. Promotion starts 1st September until 2nd January 2019. (All offers subject to stock availability).
• Creative Hands 2, Worcester – 01905 24940 • Inkberrow Design Centre, Redditch – 01527 69100
• Butterfly Fabrics, Cardiff – 02920 470808 • Cliffords Sewing Machines Ltd, Swansea – 01792 655928 • J & B Sewing Machine Co Ltd, Cardiff – 02922 402418 • Newport Sewing & Craft Centre, Newport – 01633 284646 • Sewing Machines Direct, Wrexham – 01978 851235
The world’s leading sewing machine manufacturer
INNOV-IS A50 Sewing machine
• • • • • • • •
NEW
50 stitches Automatic 1 step button hole 5 styles Advanced one action needle threader Lock stitch button Quick set bobbin Needle up/down setting Stitch length and width control Start stop button and Slide speed control
Dealer List
£399
+FREE
Creative Sewing pack worth £59.99
Brilliantly easy to use. The Innov-is A50 offers impressive features for both beginner and expert alike.
INNOV-IS M280D Sewing, Quilting and Embroidery machine
• • • • • •
181 built-in stitches Advanced one action needle threader Automatic thread cutter 10 embroidery & 4 sewing fonts 100mm x 100mm embroidery area 125 embroidery designs Inc. 45 Disney designs • Embroidery pattern drag & drop • 3.2” Colour LCD touch screen
£899
+FREE
Creative Quilt Kit worth £149.99
A machine packed with advanced features which can sew, quilt and embroider perfectly. You will love the versality and convenience of this 3 on 1 combination machine.
INNOV-IS F420 Sewing machine
£599
• 140 built-in stitches, including 10 buttonhole styles • 5 Styles of lettering (uppercase) • Advanced one action needle threader • Automatic thread cutter • Lock stitch button • SFDS: Square Feed Drive System • Knee lift • Memory function • Needle up/down setting • Quick-set bobbin and winder • User-friendly LCD screen • Hard case Versatile machine with advanced features for all styles of practical and creative sewing.
brothersewing.co.uk
+FREE
Creative Sewing pack worth £59.99
Scotland David Drummond Edinburgh EH12 5HD Karelia House Aberfeldy PH15 2LS NJ Sewing Machines Brightons FK OUF Pembertons Sewing Machines Stirling FK8 1HA Quilt Creations Inverness IV1 1EP The Sewing Machine Shop Fochabers IV32 7DU
0131 539 7766 01887 822 027 01324 711 333 01786 462 993 01463 719 369 01343 823 961
North East Sewing Machine Sales Whitley Bay NE26 2SY Tullys Sewing Machines Sunderland SR1 3JG
0191 2525 825 0191 565 7995
North West Affordable Sewing Machines Moreton CH46 9AQ Bamber Sewing Machines Eccles M30 7HY Cumbria Sewing and Craft Barrow-in-furness LA14 1DS Etty Lilly Bolton Le Sands LA5 8DB Fabrics at Fleetwood Fleetwood FY7 6DU Hobkirks Sewing Machines Blackburn BB2 2AJ Jaycotts Sewing Machines Chester CH1 4LT Lord’s Sew Knit Centre Accrington BB5 3DE M&S Sewing Machines Heywood OL10 4NN Temptations Bentham LA2 7HQ Weaverdee Middlewich CW10 0GF
0151 677 7755 0161 707 7786 01229 823 714 01524 734 713 01253 870 470 01254 693 555 01244 394 099 01254 389 171 01706 366 943 01524 261 868 01603 339 818
Yorkshire & The Humber A61 Woodseats Sewing Machines Shefield S8 0RY Fabric Mouse Richmond DL10 7SN Grimsby Sewing & Knitting Grimsby DN32 9DR Sewing Machines and Crafts Keighley BD21 1AD
0114 255 2822 01748 811 593 01472 343 921 01535 609 466
Midlands Brewers Sewing Machines Wolverhampton WV2 3AF Couling Sewing Machines Lincoln LN5 8AN Creative Hands 2 Worcester WR1 2LU DC Nutt Sewing Machines Walsall WS3 3SS Frank Nutt Sewing Machines Birmingham B14 7AA Grain Sewing Machines Nottingham NG6 8UY GS UK Ltd Nottingham NG2 3DE L & M Nutt Sutton Coldield B73 5BS Leicestershire Craft Centre Market Harborough LE16 7NJ Sewing Machine Centre Shrewsbury SY1 1XJ The Lorna Knight Sewing Academy Leek ST13 7NX
01902 458 885 01522 521 841 01905 249 40 01922 497 603 0121 443 3978 0115 927 1155 0115 844 8000 0121 373 5497 01858 466 692 01743 343 902 01538 371 682
East Anglia Backstitch Cambridge CB23 7EY Beccles Sewing Machines Beccles NR34 9TB Bedford Sew & Knit Bedford MK41 7LE Franklins Group Chelmsford CM2 0LG Franklins Group Colchester CO2 7DU Franklins Group Ipswich IP1 3EL Sew Something Northampton NN1 4EH Sewing Machine World Kings Lynn PE30 5DD Stitch X Stitch Stowmarket IP14 1HH
01223 778 118 01502 714 234 01234 217 096 01245 346 300 01206 563 955 01473 221 188 01604 626 998 01553 773 362 01449 257 070
Wales Cliffords Sewing Machines Swansea SA1 3JY J&B Sewing Machine Cardiff CF11 8AA J&B Sewing Machine Newport NP19 4SY Sewing Innovations Bodelwyddan LL18 5TQ Sewing Machines Direct Wrexham LL12 0PJ
01792 655 928 02920 402 418 01633 284 646 01745 586 845 0800 622 6224
South East Brighton Sewing Centre Brighton BN1 1YD British Sewing Centre Boreham Wood WD6 1FJ C & A Supply Cranleigh GU6 8NE CCB Sewing Machines Rochester ME1 1HS Dowlings Wickford SS11 8YJ Eastleigh Sewing Centre Eastleigh SO50 5LD GTS Sewing Machines Banbury OX16 9PQ Hastings Sewing Centre Hastings TN34 1RE In Stitches New Haw KT15 3NY Lewisham & Deptford Sewing Machines London SE8 3NT Maidstone Sewing Centre Maidstone ME14 1ED Regent Home of Sewing Ilford IG1 2AG Rona Sewing Machines Waltham Cross EN8 7AP Sew Devine Reading RG6 1JQ Stitched By You Alton GU34 1BN Sueco UK Portsmouth PO3 5BZ The Sewing Centre London SW11 3BP The World of Sewing Orpington BR6 75Q The World of Sewing Tunbridge Wells TN1 2QP
01273 621 653 0800 065 4004 01483 267 777 01634 841 597 01268 570 248 02380 650 808 01295 701 384 01424 423 108 01932 352 958 0208 692 1077 01622 670 254 0208 4780 669 01992 640 250 0118 926 8664 01420 544 033 02392 697 621 0207 228 3022 01689 638 638 01892 533 188
South West And Sew to Knit Taunton TA1 3PT Bits & Bobs Weymouth DT4 9AD Cafle Crafts Weston Super Mare BS24 6SE D & S Sewing Machines Newton Abbot Exeter Sewing Machine Company Exeter EX1 2LD Franklins Group Limited Salisbury SP2 7SU Sewcraft Swindon SN1 1SD The Sewing Studio Redruth TR15 2DB
01823 762 789 01305 773 966 01934 838 327 01626 369 840 01392 275 660 01722 554 466 01793 536 778 01209 216 942
Northern Ireland Sew N Knit Belfast BT14 1AB Sew N Knitt Lisburn BT28 1AG
028 9045 6012 028 9267 0908
Offers valid from 1st October to 31st December 2018 For full details visit your www.brothersewing.co.uk or visit your local Brother stockist.
Welcome It’s beginning to look at lot like Christmas here at Mollie, and I’m loving every minute! It’s always been my favourite time of year, and was a 99 huge celebration in our house when I was little, complete with a ceiling-high tree covered in glittery decorations. I might be a grown up now, but I still can’t resist a house full of sparkly things, and the build up to the big day is as fun as ever. Who doesn’t love an excuse to get making, go all out on décor, and generally over-indulge? So, this issue is filled with ways to make your Christmas extra-special, and hopefully bring back that child-like anticipation for you too. There are ideas for gifts, wardrobe
updates and ways to decorate your home, be it nature-inspired or all-out kitsch. Turn the page to see what’s inside, and make sure to share the festive love using #molliemakers!
Yvette Streeter Editor
FOLLOW MOLLIE MAKES FOR DAILY INSPIRATION... MOLLIEMAKES.COM 3
57 99
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
86
16
91
ON THE COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: SARAH MALONE AND SALLY BUFTON; MODEL: ALEXANDRA FIA
18
4 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
Introducing THE LATEST FROM THE WORLD OF HANDMADE 10 Mollie loves What’s new in craft and design 14 Latest crush Shop and sew earthy hues 18 Festive softies Three Nutcracker cuties to make 26 Meet the maker Philippa Stanton chats creativity 32 Vinyl Christmas jumper Iron-on confetti goodness 36 Good read How to savour the season 39 Macraweave cushion Combine two crafts for boho style
7
81
turn over for more on your gift!
39 67
77
Living
Making
EXCLUSIVE!
CREATIVE INSPIRATION FOR YOUR LIFE AND HOME
HAND-PICKED PROJECTS TO FALL IN LOVE WITH
44 Get the look This month it’s all about kitschmas – celebrate vintage meets quirky
77 Knitted mittens Get cosy in a pair of must-stitch mitts with simple colourwork
67 Bonus papers Eight festive prints and posters designed by illustrator Jen Peters – pin up your faves or getting wrapping
46 At home with… Find out how Pinterest queen Zoe Pearson decks the halls
81 Polymer clay necklace The statement jewellery of your wildest Memphis Milano dreams
NEVER MISS AN ISSUE
52 Christmas tablescape Natural dyeing, simple printing and botanical styling ideas for hosting
86 Crochet gift tags Add a handmade finishing touch
57 Yarn wrapped lampshade Raid your stash for a speedy décor update with heaps of style 61 Crochet blanket Take your hooking skills up a notch with this colourful yarn masterpiece, inspired by modern fabric design
91 Sheepskin slippers Sew yourself snug, or make for a pal 98 Templates All you need for this issue’s makes 106 Tea and a chat Steph Wallace of Mostly Miniature thinks the best things in life are small
24 Subscribe UK Choose a TOFT reindeer crochet set or a Crafter’s Companion embroidery kit when you subscribe to Mollie Makes today 80 Subscribe overseas International subscribers save up to 78%
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 5
99
Contributors Anabella Cahwje As a lover of sweet things and crafts, Anabella’s main goal is to make people smile through her work. She spends her days surrounded by the little animals she’s created. Sew Anabella’s festive softies on page 18. www.whatacurlylife. etsy.com
Zoe Pearson Cat lover Zoe is UK Lead at Pinterest HQ. She once won a Cadbury’s Creme Egg for her poetry at school and is currently working on her first novel – a dark fairytale. She likes vegan tacos and lazy Sundays but hates pre-packaged sandwiches. Take a tour of Zoe’s place, prepped for Christmas, on page 46. www.instagram.com/convo_pieces
Rosie Harbottle Devon-based illustrator Rosie creates work for stationery, editorial and fashion, as well as personal paintings. Inspired by a boho lifestyle, her whimsical style hopes to inspire a sense of wonder and imagination. Find Rosie’s illustration on page 36. www.rosieharbottle.com
Philippa Stanton Artist and author Philippa’s favourite food is popcorn and her favourite smell is that of old fashioned theatre make-up from her childhood. Her most loved texture is water. She enjoys driving, and long chats over a coffee or a beer. Find out more about Philippa’s creative life on page 26. www.5ftinf.com
6 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
Cheers! Anna Alicia, Valerie Bracegirdle, Rachele Carmona, Hannah Carr, Mr Carrington, Becki Clark, Alexandra Fia @ Mustard Models, Sophie Filomena, Tuija Heikkinen, Holly Johnson, Christine Leech, Helen Martin, Sarah Louise Matthews, Emma May, Emma Lois Munn, Rachael Smith, Philip Sowels, Isabella Strambio, The Completist, Steph Wallace
Jen Peters Jen’s an independent graphic designer and illustrator living in Los Angeles. Much like Jen herself, her artistic style is warm and cheerful. You’ll recognise her work by its bright colours and playful, hand-drawn aesthetic. Check out Jen’s pretty Christmassy pull-out papers on page 67. www.jenbpeters.com
Fold your way to starry gift boxes and decorations!
MEET THE MAKERS SARAH LOUISE MATTHEWS’ AND THE COMPLETIST’S FESTIVE COLLABORATION
“Decorating for Christmas is one of my absolute favourite things to do, particularly with handmade ornaments. Not only will these stars add a
pop of colour to my tree but, thanks to a clever little opening, they also double up as cute gift boxes! I know the template may look daunting, but don’t be put off by the number of fold lines – once you get the hang of it it’s more straightforward than you think.” Sarah Louise Matthews is a Sheffield-based paper product designer. www. sarahlouisematthews.com
“We founded The Completist in 2017. Along with our two cats, we bring you premium printed paper goods from South East London. We love
fashion, print (especially terrazzo), colour and the 80s. All our screen prints are printed by us. We try to make things as environmentally friendly as we can.” Jana and Marko of The Completist designed the papers for this star kit. www.the-completist.com Turn to page 98 for a guide to making your ornaments, and don’t forget to share your makes using #molliemakers.
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 7
Introducing THE LATEST FROM THE WORLD OF HANDMADE
Winter is coming, and so is party season *immediately rolls in glitter*. But, before you head out into those dropping temperatures, don this coat that doubles as a big hug. Layers and contrasting textures are also your friends, but keep your colour palette simple and stick to complementary shades. www.riverisland.com
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 9
MOLLIE LOVES IT’S THE TUB ARMCHAIR, BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT.
Inspired by 1950s Italian design, this velvet orange wonder is a mid-century-made-modern piece that’s ready to make a statement wherever it sits. Style it with luxe and dark accessories for a winter scheme, or soften it with turquoise and pale pinks for a fresh hit in spring and summer. www.rockettstgeorge.co.uk
MAKE WRAPPING PRESENTS A TREAT
for you too this Christmas. Rifle Paper Co.’s new seasonal range of papers can’t fail to make the usual task a joy. Sumptuous colours, berries and floral motifs combine with the odd dachshund in a Santa hat for the kind of wrap they’ll be carefully peeling the tape off to keep. Tie with simple cream bows, or go full maximalist with different shades of velvet ribbon, metallic gift tags and pom poms for good measure. www.riflepaperco.com
10 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
Throw on your tutu and reenact the nutcracker.
Anything less would be a disservice to the magic of this sparkly net skirt, filled with sequin stars and reindeer shapes. www.merimeri.co.uk
BRAND FOCUS Emily Marlin
There’s a rumour Jesmonite miracle worker Emily Marlin may have melted down rainbows to make her new range of homewares. Use Christmas dinner as an excuse to buy the placemats, then enjoy all year round. www.emilymarlin.com
THE SEARCH IS OVER.
JUST LANDED
MISS POM POM’S AW18 COLLECTION
is throwing some serious shapes. Bold colours, geo patterns and a playful aesthetic secure this knitwear brand a place in Mollie Makes’ ‘all the heart eyes’ category. www.misspompom.com
NEED TO READ Winter is made
for botanical dyeing, as Alicia Hall is keen to show in her new ebook. Gather your pine cones, citruses and herbs, and treat your nose and your dye pot to Festive Plant Dyeing’s seasonal recipes. www.botanicalthreads.co.uk
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 11
EMILY MARLIN PHOTOGRAPHY: GABRIELLA JACKSON WWW.GABRIELLAJACKSON.COM
PHOTOGRAPHY: GABRIELLA JACKSON
We’ve found a way for your lobes to celebrate the festive season without having to don dangly Santa faces or comedy flashing red noses. With confetti encased in resin and metallic thread tassels, these gently sparkling earrings from Shy Sisters strike a modern silhouette and are high on the fun factor. A little bit, in fact, like wearing the celebratory confetti cannon emoji all day long. Check out the Australian brand’s wider resin range for sea shell, floral and found object designs. www.shysisters.com
The Miffy X stitch & story collab is here
FASHION
’TIS THE SEASON FOR PATTERN CLASHING, MIXING FABRICS,
MIFFY SLIPPERS: WWW.STITCHANDSTORY.COM/COLLECTIONS/MIFFY
and it’s better than our chilly toes could ever have dreamed. Dick Bruna’s iconic bunny can now be crocheted, knitted into hats, and even crafted into slippers thanks to Stitch & Story’s range of clever kits and merino yarns. www.stitchandstory.com
and embracing texture. We’d also recommend you ignore the old adage about taking one accessory off before you leave the house, and instead focus on putting an extra something on. Florals and animal prints? Fine! Pastels and metallics? Positively encouraged. Mix it up, layer it on and embrace colour, we say. The only real rule is that what you’re wearing has to make you happy. www.oliverbonas.com
If you’re on the nice list this year,
make sure you mention these hand-bound journals in your letter to the big man. Or, if you can’t wait, treat yourself a little early and use them to write the letter itself. 160 pages should be enough, right? www.anthropologie.com
BOOKMARK ‘Growing green’
is a new scheme we love from William and the Wolf. When your little cub outgrows their handmade threads, post them back to receive 20% of the sale price, plus your items will be washed, repaired and resold at a discount. www.williamandthewolf.co.uk
12 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
Barbara Groves and Mary Jacobson have had their hands in just about every aspect of quilting. These one-time shop owners grew a business out of their love of making quilts – Me & My Sister Designs. They’ve designed fabric for Moda for more than ten years, developed the SideWinder portable bobbin-winder and designed hundreds of quilts that they’ve published in books and patterns.
Yardage, Precuts and Patterns available in December 2018
MMS 180535 Love Shack
© 2018 moda fabrics. all rights reserved.
01
LATEST CRUSH EARTHY HUES From that Gen Z yellow shade everyone’s wearing to 1970s mustard and rich rust – colours are warming up for the winter and we’re all in favour.
02
03 05
04
06
07
08
14 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
Ruffles and wild florals on melted butter yellow. www.anthropologie.com 02 Ideally, we’d fill this with custard creams. www. maisonsdumonde.com 03 Tan of the hour – the statement mini tote. www.zara.com/uk 04 Let your sofa join the sunshine gang. www. torvaigdesigns.etsy.com 05 Choose a copper or gold lining for the glowiest lamp. www.noths.com/lovefrankie 06 Dynasty meets resin. www.bimbaylola.com 07 The secret’s out. www.oliverbonas.com 08 Plush is the word. www.persora.com 09 Velvet storage seat of dreams. www.thetipi.co.uk 01
09
make it!
TURN OVER TO DIY THE EARTHY HUES TREND MOLLIEMAKES.COM 15
make it!
EARTHY HUES TOTE BAG MATERIALS 50cm (19¾") needlecord fabric in mustard (Fabric 1) (ours was from www.textileexpress.co.uk) 50cm (19¾") Moda Bella Solids in New Chrome (Fabric 2) (ours was from www.fabrichq.co.uk) 50cm (19¾") fusible interfacing Pattern paper 2m (78¾") cotton strap webbing in mustard, 3cm (1¼") wide Matching sewing thread 01
02
03
MEET THE MAKER
EMMA MAY 04
Cut a 34 x 30cm (133/8 x 117/8") template from the pattern paper. On the bottom edge, mark 6cm (23/8") in from each corner, and on the corresponding side edges mark 5cm (2") in. Join the marks and cut off the triangles. 02 Use the template to cut two Fabric 1 pieces, two Fabric 2 pieces and two interfacing pieces. Needlecord has a ‘nap’ and looks slightly different from each direction, so be sure to cut out all the pieces pointing in the same direction. Cut two 01
16 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
05
1m (393/8") lengths of strap. Iron the interfacing to the wrong side (WS) of Fabric 1. 03 Place one Fabric 1 piece and one Fabric 2 piece with right sides (RS) together, pin along the top edge and sew with a 1cm (3/8") seam allowance. Press the seam open. Repeat with the other two pieces. 04 Position each end of one strap on the bottom edge of the RS of one Fabric 1 piece, adjacent to the corner cuts, as shown. Pin in place to the top of Fabric 1. Sew along the outer
06
edges of the strap, stopping 1.5cm (5/8") before the top. Repeat with the other strap and bag pieces. 05 Lay both pieces RS together, aligning the outer edges. Pin and sew all around with a 1cm (3/8") seam allowance, leaving a 15cm (6") gap in the bottom edge of the lining. 06 Turn the bag through the gap in the lining, then sew the gap closed. Push the lining into the bag, then press and top stitch around the bag opening 0.5cm (¼") in from the edge.
Emma’s a soft furnisher and sewing tutor, running regular sewing workshops around Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire encouraging and inspiring other homemakers. When she’s not in her workroom, she can be found in the park or the woods chasing her two small boys. www.emmamay stitching.co.uk
Unlock your Meet the Singer 7465 Confidence ?
?
Easy stitch selection ? Push button stitch selection ? Automatic stitch length and width Drop and Sew™ Bobbin system ? 50 built-in stitches ? Two Fully automatic 1-step buttonhole ? Drop feed for free hand sewing ? 2 StayBright™ LED lights ? Twin needle setting ? Automatic needle threader ? 13 needle positions
AROUND
£279
The world’s favourite sewing machines
Join us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @singersewinguk
www.singerco.co.uk
18 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: SARAH MALONE AND SALLY BUFFTON
Sew a little festive magic with Anabella Cahwje’s Nutcracker-inspired heirloom softies
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 19
02
03
04
08
09
10
HOW TO MAKE HEIRLOOM SOFTIES MATERIALS Q 20 x 20cm (77/8 x 77/8") cotton fabric in light grey, natural and beige Q 15 x 15cm (6 x 6") cotton fabric in baby pink, red, navy, aqua and white Q 15 x 15cm (6 x 6") patterned cotton fabric in red and pink Q 15 x 5cm (6 x 2") cream tulle fabric Q 30 x 5cm (117/8 x 2") cream polka dot tulle Q Wool felt in red, navy, yellow, baby pink, black and gold Q 10 x 5cm (4 x 2") cream fleece fabric Q 15 x 10cm (6 x 4") cream faux fur Q Gold ric rac, 7mm (¼") wide Q Gold metallic frogging braid, 1cm (3/8") wide 20 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
Q Gold metallic cord, 3mm (1/8") wide Q Gold fringing, 1.5cm (5/8") wide Q Gold glitter ribbon, 2mm (1/8") wide Q 50cm (19¾") wired sparkly ribbon, 1cm (3/8") wide Q 20cm (77/8") cotton crochet lace in cream, 1cm (3/8") wide Q 20cm (77/8") gold ribbon, 1cm (3/8") wide Q Three 1.5cm (5/8") jingle bells Q Stranded embroidery thread in black, gold, navy, pink and red Q Polyester machine thread in cream Q Soft toy stuffing Q Erasable fabric marker Q Wooden skewer
We reckon the real magic happens on Christmas Eve once the house is quiet and still. There’s a mince pie and a carrot waiting on the kitchen counter, and carefully wrapped parcels sitting underneath a twinkling tree. That’s when you might just see something stirring from the corner of your eye, or hear a rustle of movement behind you – these three little pals coming out to play. Sew a sugar plum fairy bunny, a mouse king and a Nutcracker lion as Christmas decorations or extra special stocking fillers, using a 0.25cm (1/8") seam allowance throughout. And, turn to page 98 for an embroidery stitch guide. Cut the fabric pieces using the templates on page 98. For the bunny, cut two body pieces, four arms and two ears from the natural cotton. Cut two ears from the pink 01
patterned cotton and two garment pieces from the pink cotton. For the bunny skirt, cut two skirt pieces in polka dot tulle and one in tulle. Finally, cut one bunny collar piece in faux fur and one star in gold felt. For the mouse, cut two body pieces, two ears and four hands in light grey cotton and two leg pieces in white cotton. Cut two ears in pink cotton, two shirt pieces and four arms in aqua cotton, one cape piece in red patterned cotton and one cape collar piece in fleece. Cut one crown piece from the yellow felt. For the lion, cut two body pieces, two ears and four hands from the beige cotton. Cut two ears from the pink cotton, two shirt pieces and four arms in red cotton and two leg pieces in navy cotton. Cut one hat piece in red felt and one hat piece in navy felt. 02 For each of the ear pairs, place the inner and outer pieces with
05
06
07
11
12
13
right sides (RS) together and sew around each one, leaving the base open. Press, then turn RS out. 03 For the mouse and the lion, lay the hand pieces on the arms with RS together, aligning the straight edges. Sew where indicated, then fold open and press the seam. 04 Pair the arm pieces with RS together and sew around each one, leaving the ends open. Turn out and lightly fill with stuffing. 05 For the mouse and lion, fold the neck of the shirt to the wrong side (WS) by 0.25cm (1/8") and sew in place on the body, as shown. Align the short edges of the body and leg pieces with RS together, then sew as shown. For the bunny, fold the neck and leg edges of the garment to the WS as marked on the template, then sew in place on the body. 06 Press all the body pieces. To assemble, choose the piece that
looks best to use as the front for each animal, then pin on the ears and stitch them facing down at the a-b and c-d template marks on the front of each head, as shown. The bunny’s ears need to be folded in half at the base. The mouse ears need a tiny fold at the upper edge. 07 Pair the body pieces with RS together, then sew leaving the e-f and g-h marks open. Place the arms inside the body within these marks, aligning the raw edges, and sew leaving a 3cm (1¼") gap under the arm on the g-h side. 08 Carefully turn each body out to the RS through the g-h gap. Stuff the legs, then sew a line across them with matching thread to allow them to bend. 09 Stuff the rest of the body, then neatly sew the g-h gap closed using ladder stitch. 10 For the bunny tutu, stack the three tulle layers together with the
plain one between the two polka dot ones. Fold in half along the length, then sew a long running stitch 1cm (3/8") below the fold. Next, fold the skirt in half along the width and sew the short ends together, leaving the ends of the running stitch at the top free. Turn RS out, position the tutu on the bunny’s hips with the seam at the back, then pull the ends of the running stitch threads to gather the fabric. Knot them and trim. Sew the tutu to the body with running stitch. Without cutting the back seam, trim the top layer of tulle slightly to reveal the layers underneath. Thread a bell onto a length of gold glitter ribbon and tie it around the bunny’s waist, over the tutu skirt. 11 To complete the bunny details, cut a 4.5cm (17/8") piece from the wooden skewer for the wand and glue the gold star to one end. MOLLIEMAKES.COM 21
14
15
16
17
18
18
HOW TO MAKE HEIRLOOM SOFTIES Sew the wand to one of the arms. Referring to the main image as a guide, sew the faux fur around the neck and tie a length of crochet lace around the bunny’s head as a headband. For the wings, make a big and smaller bow with the wired ribbon and sew to the back between the arms. Sew the ears onto the back of the head with two little stitches in matching thread. 12 For the mouse, fold the cape piece in half, RS together, and sew leaving a small gap. Turn RS out and sew the fleece piece along the cape’s fold line. Sew to the mouse’s neck and add the bell. Fold the crown in half and sew the short edges together with matching thread, then sew it onto the mouse’s head. Sew on a length of gold ric rac trim around the waist to cover the shirt and leg seam. 13 For the lion’s hat, lay the red felt piece on top of the navy piece 22 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
and sew on a length of gold glitter ribbon, following the zigzag. Add a bell in the middle. Fold in half with WS together and sew the short edges. Sew the red circle to the top of the hat with whip stitch. 14 To complete the lion details, use gold thread and whip stitch to sew the gold frogging vertically down the centre front of the shirt, starting at the neck. Stitch a length of gold cord around the hips and a 0.5 x 9cm (¼ x 35/8") piece of black felt underneath it as a belt. Sew a 4 x 1.5cm (15/8 x ¼") piece of faux fur along the side seam either side of the head, between the ears and the neck. Sew the hat onto the head. 15 Using six strands of gold thread, stitch a short line in the centre of the black belt as a buckle, then stitch two parallel cuff lines around the end of each sleeve. Stitch the fringe around the neck, folding the ends so they don’t tear.
Stitch the bunny and mouse noses using three strands of black embroidery thread. Stitch a straight line following the a-b mark, then take the needle out at c and back in at d. Take the needle out at the neckline and secure with a knot. 17 Use three strands of black thread and fly stitch for the lion’s nose. Following the template marks, stitch two diagonal lines either side first as a guide. For the eyes of all the animals, use French knots in six strands of thread, following the template marks. Cut six tiny circles from pink felt and glue under the eyes for cheeks. 18 Using the images as a guide, embroider the shoes with six strands of pink thread for the bunny, gold thread for lion and navy for the mouse. If using as decorations, cut a length of gold ribbon, fold in half, then sew the short ends to the back of the head. 16
MEET THE MAKER ANABELLA CAHWJE Anabella’s a Brighton-based artist who specialises in creating cute fabric creatures, baby mobiles and soft toy patterns. She started out sewing with her Italian nona when she was little and, a degree in fashion design later, she still gets so much joy from making. Travel and photography are her other passions, and that’s where a lot of her inspiration comes from. www.whatacurlylife.etsy.com
SUBSCRIPTION ORDER FORM UK – 6 issues by Direct Debit at £26.95 – saving 23% on the shop price BEST DEAL UK – 13 issues by cheque or credit/debit card at £63.49 EUR – 13 issues at £76.99 ROW – 13 issues at £91.99
YOUR DETAILS Title
(it is essential you complete this section)
Initials
Surname
Address Postcode Telephone number (in case of queries) Email address
KEEP IN TOUCH Mollie Makes (published by Immediate Media Company Limited) would like to send you updates, special offers and promotions by email. You can unsubscribe at any time. Please tick here if you would like to receive these We would also like to keep in touch by post and telephone about other relevant offers and promotions from Immediate Media. If you do not wish to be contacted this way please tick here post phone. For more information about how to change the way we contact you, and how we hold your personal information, please see our privacy policy which can be viewed online at www.immediate.co.uk/privacy-policy
Don’t miss out – pick your own bonus treat when you subscribe today! Choose between an embroidery kit worth over £25 from Crafter’s Companion, or a TOFT crochet kit with all you need to make an amigurumi reindeer and cute baby booties. Celebrating the best of contemporary craft, Mollie Makes is filled with projects from top designer-makers, behind-the-scenes tours of their homes and studios, and all the latest trends. Subscribe today to save up to 25% on the shop price, and get creative inspiration all year round!
CHOOSE FROM 3 EASY WAYS TO PAY 1 UK DIRECT DEBIT PAYMENT I would like to pay £26.95 by Direct Debit every 6 issues (please complete the direct debit form below)
Instruction to your bank or building society to pay by Direct Debit UK only To: The Manager
Yvette Streeter, Editor
Bank/building society
Address
Postcode Name(s) of account holder(s) Bank/building society account number Branch sort code
Instruction to your bank or building society Please pay Immediate Media company Bristol Ltd, Direct Debits from the account detailed in this Instruction subject to the safeguards assured by the Direct Debit Guarantee. I understand that this Instruction may remain with Immediate Media company Bristol Ltd and, if so, details will be passed electronically to my bank/building society.
Signature(s) Date Banks and building societies may not accept Direct Debit Instructions for some types of account.
2ULJLQDWRU·V LGHQWLILFDWLRQ QXPEHU
7 1 0 6 4 4
2 I enclose a cheque/postal order made payable to Immediate Media Company Bristol Ltd for 13 issues (please write your name and address on the back of the cheque). 3 Please debit my MasterCard Visa Amount £63.49 (UK only) £76.99 (Europe)
£91.99 (Rest of World)
Card no:
Expiry date
Valid from
Signature
Date
FREEPOST YOUR UK ORDER TO: FREEPOST IMMEDIATE MEDIA (no further address or stamp required; please write in capitals)
POST OVERSEAS ORDERS TO: Mollie Makes, Immediate Media Company Ltd, PO Box 3320, 3 Queensbridge, Northampton NN4 7BFA Terms and conditions: This offer ends 15th December 2018 and is subject to availability while stocks last. Subscriber reward is available for UK subscribers only and subject to availability. Your choice will be dispatched within 28 days of payment. In the event of stocks becoming exhausted, we reserve the right to replace with items of a similar value. Your subscription will start with the next available issue and you will receive 13 issues in a year. Full details of the Direct Debit guarantee are available upon request. Prices correct at point of print and subject to change.
ORDER REFERENCE: MMP99
SUBSCRIBER BENEFITS Q Your choice – subscriber treat worth up to £35 Q Choose a Crafter’s Companion embroidery set or a TOFT reindeer crochet set Q Spread the cost – just £26.95 every 6 issues Q Magazine delivery direct to your door
YOUR CHOICE FOR CHRISTMAS when you subscribe to
Includes: • ‘Hello’ embroidery kit • Floral transfer sheets • Embroidery thread
Includes: • Enamel reindeer mug • TOFT DK yarn – 25g ball of Mushroom and 100g ball of Stone • 3mm TOFT soft-grip crochet hook • Reindeer crochet pattern postcard • TOFT canvas tote bag
GIFT 2 Worth over £35
GIFT 1 Worth over £25
HOW TO SUBSCRIBE Order online at www.buysubscriptions.com/MMP99 Call now on 03330 162 148† and quote code MMP99 † UK
calls will cost the same as other standard fixed line numbers (starting 01 or 02) and are included as part of any inclusive or free minutes allowances (if offered by your phone tariff). Outside of free call packages call charges from mobile phones will cost between 3p and 55p per minute. Lines are open Mon to Fri 8am-6pm and Sat 9am-1pm, for orders only. Overseas readers call +44 (0) 1604 973 757.
Freepost your completed order form
USA READERS: SEE PAGE 80
BEHIND THE ’GRAM, ARTIST PHILIPPA STANTON’S CREATIVE LIFE IS LED BY INSTINCT AND HER PASSION FOR COLOUR AND CONNECTING THE SENSES
B
MEET THE MAKER
EMBRACING A CREATIVE PATH WITH PHILIPPA STANTON Words: HELEN MARTIN Photographs: RACHAEL SMITH
26 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
righton-dwelling Philippa Stanton has an occupation which “encompasses many diferent things”. An artist, photographer and trained actress, she’s worked with her creativity throughout her life, from selling embroidered espadrilles aged 14 to painting with her synaesthesia – a neurological trait that results in a merging of senses not usually connected. Her vibrant images and thoughtful captions on Instagram – search @5ftinf for her colourdriven compositions – have attracted a following of over 430k. And, her new book, Conscious Creativity, is poised to hit shops on 15 November 2018. Philippa’s creative endeavours don’t stop there though. She also supplies visual content for brands, runs workshops, and takes part in the Brighton Open Houses, opening her home with a curated exhibition of art, textiles and ceramics. For Philippa, her style is best described as “free-form nostalgia, weaving a sensory story through a rustic exterior”. Eager to find out more, we chatted to Philippa at her beautiful home and studio.
Tell us what you’ve been up to today. I got up at about 5.45am, and after feeding Cheeks, my cat, doing the washing up and tidying, I went on a bike ride to Ditching Beacon. I love the morning more than any other time of day. I got back just after 8am, saw my son of to college and had a cup of cofee sitting at the table. Purple things started happening in my head and pretty soon I was standing on a chair taking a picture. I went to my shed to work on my computer at about 9am and stayed in there until about 4.30pm, doing mostly book-related stuf. A neighbour popped in to tell me about her photography exhibition and I realised I’d forgotten to eat! I had a couple of slices of toast and gave Cheeks some attention,
Philippa’s home in Brighton, including the now famous @5ftinf table bought in an antiques emporium in Lewes, 17 years ago.
MEET THE MAKER
then went for a walk around the block, came home and did some washing. Today, unusually, I didn’t have an afternoon nap. I was desperate to spend the day gardening, but I feel like that most days. Tonight, I’ll finish designing my 2019 calendar, make plans for my Open House in November and probably watch an episode of Killing Eve with my son.You caught me on a real ‘home day’. What do you love most about what you do? The freedom I have to be able to act on ideas in the moment I have them. I love that I’ve found a way of surviving on my own terms. I love being able to express myself in an abstract way and experience the joy of creating chaotic mess around me while I do that. I love that a part of what I do is to spend time just sitting, looking and thinking. If I didn’t have that time, I would never actually ‘do’ anything. How did your career evolve? Very organically. I was always painting and making, and was in the right place at the right time on Instagram with a few years’ experience behind me. It was one of those lucky moments. I’ve always tried to be careful with what I say yes to, but building a creative career is real trial and error. You translate your synaesthesia into art – when did you first start expressing it this way? I begin creating little abstract paintings when I was about 12, and was also asked at drama school to draw sounds of vowels. However, when I was working at Shakespeare’s Globe we did a lot of intense voice work, and I realised I was seeing the shapes, textures and colours of voices. I tried to express it with textiles, but it wasn’t very satisfactory. About a year later I was compelled to paint an actor’s voice after a performance I’d watched, and suddenly realised that I’d found the right tools to interpret my inner abstract.
01
01
28 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
that’s when she could interpret her
Cheeks), Philippa
“inner abstract”.
goes into a very focused zone. 02
Nature to
Philippa is constant change; humbling and inspiring. 03
Can we all access our senses more? Completely! I feel very passionately about this and wrote a chapter in Conscious Creativity about the senses
Working at the
table (with cat
Philippa felt
04
Compositions
require time to discover a feeling about the day. 05
A lot of how
Philippa creates her home has come
compelled to paint
from finding pearls
an actor’s voice,
in oysters.
04
02
03
“I believe that being more connected to our senses leads directly to creative thought.” and synaesthesia to help people access, embrace and enjoy their senses more. I truly believe being connected to our senses leads directly to creative thought. Have you got any advice for creatives struggling with sharing their skills? I think they shouldn’t be afraid of the sharing process. People love to follow a story and feel part of the creation. It’s also important to be friendly and engage with people as much as possible so they get to know who you are and what makes you tick. I do struggle with this bit as I don’t have enough hours in the day to respond properly to everyone, but I also don’t want that to stop me from posting on Instagram. I often treat myself to a ‘business’ trip down an Instagram wormhole where I’m gone for hours!
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 29 05
MEET THE MAKER
01
02
Has Instagram helped you develop as an artist? Yes, it really has. It’s a great way to document, and for me documenting experiences is key to unlocking creative potential. I love charting my inspirations photographically, and Instagram has definitely fuelled that. It allows you to indulge in repetition, which is a great way to explore boundaries, then inevitably get bored and find a way to move on. I love looking at other people’s progressions too. The accounts I love have inspiring images, but are also prepared to experiment. 01
The colour she’s
fascinated by set and
most drawn to?
prop details – she
“Blue, always blue;
has a real sense of
it’s my base note.”
being able to change
02
Working in
theatre Philippa was
an atmosphere in a moment.
Do you have ‘voila’ moments? Not often. I always feel there’s more to be done, but I’ve learnt to recognise the point to leave something alone. Occasionally I feel that ‘voila’ moment when I make or do something for the first time, however I’ll then have massive frustration I can’t recreate whatever it is. Would you say your home and work space are a reflection of you? Yes, they probably are. I afectionately refer to my home as ‘my den’, but that’s what it’s like – a big den which is cosy, a bit messy, and very much part of me. I love a bright room, but I’ve also learnt to appreciate shadow and darkness. Every bright home should have a dark recess, like a Japanese
30 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
“Instagram allows you to indulge in repetition, which is a great way to explore boundaries.” tokonoma. It’s grounding to look at shadows, like discovering a new world. How do you stay so connected to your creativity? Practise. If you don’t explore your instinctive responses on a regular basis, it’s harder to respond to inspiration floating around. Conscious Creativity touches on this, and I encourage people to connect with the childlike curiosity we lose when we’re older. If our instinct tells us somewhere has a strange atmosphere, for example, observe what you’re feeling rather than dismissing it. Everything we experience is useful creatively. Have you got a favourite saying or quote? “The chief enemy of creativity is good sense” – Picasso. I have it near me, on a postcard at home, at all times.
Philippa Stanton’s new book Conscious Creativity is published by Leaping Hare Press, RRP £14.99, available to buy online and in all good bookshops from 15 November. Find Philippa on Instagram @5ftinf and visit her website at www.5ftinf.com.
For t h
os e w
ho love a
little happy mail
New themed box on the 1st of every month Visit our blog & YouTube channel for ideas & inspiration ail ppy m g & ha For planners, scrapbooking, craftin
Exclusive stickers, stamps, stationery, papers & planner lists every month
www.lollipopboxclub.com Free UK delivery Flat rate worldwide delivery
Find us on...
/lollipopboxclub
DODODODODOD Emily Williams 0117 300 8531 DODODODODOD DODODODODOD For more advertising opportunities, please contact
on
email: emily.williams@immediate.co.uk
32 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: SARAH MALONE & SALLY BUFFTON
meRry aNd brIght This year’s Christmas jumper is the spangliest upcycle yet – Christine Leech shows you how it’s done
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 33
02
02
04
06
HOW TO MAKE A CHRISTMAS JUMPER MATERIALS Q Selection of iron-on vinyls including glitter, flock, fluorescent and holographic finishes (ours were from www. happyfabric.co.uk) Q Greaseproof paper Q Coins Q Plain sweatshirt
Ready to embrace all things holly jolly? We’re easing ourselves in with a confetti-spangled sweatshirt that feels oh so 2018. Grab a plain top and prepare to get excited about ironing – iron-on vinyl is a game changer when it comes to customising. Unbelievably easy to use, it allows you to get creative and go as crazy as you like with glittery shapes and layering. When using an iron to fix vinyl, it’s better to use a really solid surface rather than an ironing board, so place a thick towel on a table then place the sweatshirt on top of this. Iron any creases out of the sweatshirt. 02 Begin by cutting a selection of small circles from the different vinyls, referring to the main image as a guide. If you’re happy to cut 01
34 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
them freehand, it’s a good idea to cut a square of vinyl roughly the size of the circle first, then cut the circle away within it. This helps keep the circle round, plus it also creates a circular offcut to use in the design too. If you aren’t feeling confident, draw around some coins then cut out the shapes. Don’t worry about the perfect roundness of the cutting as the handmade feel all adds to the design. 03 Next, cut some holly leaves. Draw the shape on the back of the vinyl first, using the templates on page 98. Again, it’s a good idea to cut a rectangle as a guide shape before cutting the leaf shape. Cut several leaves and berries in different colours and sizes. 04 Working on the front of the sweatshirt, take a selection of leaves and berries and position
03
04
07
09
them in little groups, as shown. Gradually add in some of the offcuts until you’re happy with the design. Make sure you’re laying them with the protective plastic side up. You can layer up the vinyls, but it’s best to not place anything over the glitters and flocks as they may not adhere so well. 05 Once you’re happy with the design, remove anything that’s layered up as you can only iron one layer at a time. Take a photo of the design if you don’t think you’ll remember where the pieces go. 06 Place a piece of greaseproof paper over the area you’re going to iron first and, with the iron on the cotton setting, press down onto the sweatshirt with a firm pressure for 10 seconds. 07 Remove the iron and the greaseproof paper. Wait a few
seconds, then peel away the protective plastic layer. Work your way around the sweatshirt, ironing and peeling as you go. Some plastic layers are easier to remove when they’re warm and some when they‘ve cooled down, so if one shape is proving tricky to remove simply wait a bit longer. 08 Once you’ve completed the first layer of the design, place the second layer of vinyl pieces in position, place the greaseproof paper on top again, and iron in place as per Steps 6-7. 09 Continue adding shapes in the same way until the whole vinyl design has been completed. Give the sweatshirt one final press, paying special attention to the edges of the vinyl pieces, then turn the sweatshirt inside out and iron again from the back to finish.
MEET THE MAKER CHRISTINE LEECH Christine’s an author, maker, stylist and workshop host and loves sharing her craft skills. She sells handmade treats through Etsy and has a long-standing obsession with pom poms and all things that sparkle. www.sew yeahstudio.etsy.com
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 35
ILLUSTRATION: ROSIE HARBOTTLE
SAVOURING THE SEASON COULD IT BE TIME TO SIMPLIFY YOUR CELEBRATIONS? HANNAH CARR FINDS OUT HOW TO ENJOY A CREATIVE FESTIVE SEASON AT A MUCH SLOWER PACE
Words: HANNAH CARR Illustration: ROSIE HARBOTTLE
C
enough. “I’m a bit of a perfectionist, so if I sense I’m getting a bit twitchy about something not being right, I just have to step away and remind myself this is real life, not Pinterest or Instagram,” shares Victoria. Charlotte agrees, pointing out the magic of the season can easily be lost in the pressure to create perfection.
MADE WITH LOVE As crafters, there’s always the temptation to make, make, make, and never more so than at Christmas – a season practically designed for crafting. Instead, streamline your plans from the start, so you can add your creative stamp to Christmas while approaching it slowly and calmly. “Before festivities begin I like to look at the season as a whole and see what and where I can simplify,” says maker Charlotte Smith (www.lottsandlots.com). Presents are a great place to begin – blogger Amanda Dales (www.rhymeand ribbons.com) and her husband limit themselves to four gifts each. “Something we want, something we need, something to wear and something to read.” Amanda gifts family and friends the same home-baked goods that she’s batch cooked, still keeping it personal but saving time. When it comes to making gifts, it’s as much about keeping it low-key and enjoying the process as it is the end result. And how better to do this than in the company of other creatives? Join a festive craft workshop to help you savour the spirit of the season. You’ll often leave with a finished gift, plus the skills to make more. Christmas is the ideal excuse to hold a crafternoon too – not that we needed one! Choose a project everyone can try, so you can enjoy the process together. Charlotte recommends making air dry clay stars: “Use cookie cutters for the shape, paint them white and then hang on beautiful lengths of coloured ribbon.” Writer and crafter Victoria Haynes (@ohwilduk) says one of her favourite festive activities is to turn old glass jars into candle holders, as gifts for family and friends. This year, she’s also going to try printing fabric to wrap gifts in, as a sustainable alternative to shop-bought paper. Whatever you craft, avoid the pressure to make it perfect – you’ve created it yourself with love and that’s more than
BACK TO NATURE When it comes to Christmas décor, it doesn’t need to be slick or overly complicated – Victoria recommends looking to nature for inspiration. “I’m massively into nature and plants, so Christmas for me is a brilliant excuse to bring half the woods back into the house!” Why not go for a mindful walk outside and see what you can find? It’s a lovely family activity too, and the flora you come across will delight different senses when back in your home. Victoria creates vases full of greenery such as Christmas tree offcuts and eucalyptus for their “wonderful” smell. She also uses dried fruit for seasonal décor. “We use dried orange slices and cranberries to make tree decorations and garlands as well – string them onto twine and add some wooden beads to create natural and sweet-smelling ornaments.” For Rebecca Sullivan, an author and sustainable living advocate (www.rebeccasullivan.com.au), there’s a simple joy in creating sustainable table décor. She makes edible flower posies for her Christmas table that guests can take away and cook with, but points out “it can be as simple as tying your cutlery up with some twine and a twig or two of rosemary and sage”. The important thing is to slow down and take in all the sights, smells, sounds and tastes of the season to appreciate all the joy that it brings. Remember to make time to rest and regroup, too. After all, that’s what Christmas is all about. “I like to do a few gentle festive activities that make me feel calm and centred, like making a wreath, doing some Christmas baking with my little ones, or even going for a walk at dusk to see all the Christmas tree lights,” says Charlotte. Rebecca suggests booking out a day in your diary that’s just for you and to spend it on activities that bring you a sense of calm. We all need to press pause once in a while, particularly during the festive season. Then we’ll feel ready to press play again and enjoy everything the new year has to bring.
hristmas – there’s just so much to do. Shopping and maybe making gifts, and gearing up to travel or host. We start out the season full of good intentions but often end up feeling the overwhelm. If only we could press pause and take some much needed time to rest and regroup... Luckily, it’s easier than you think to pare back that huge to-do list and have a relaxed, more sustainable Christmas that’s still filled with creativity and joy.
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 37
$ !$ " " ! "" # " % # " " " # # ! # $# $ $ # "#( # # & " " ) " $# & ! # ! % # % ( $ $! # " "" ! # # % ! # # " & ! # " # # # '# !# "# " " ! ! $ # & ! $ !$ " " " ! ! ( ! # ! #$! $# # " # $## " " ! ! # #! "$! " ! " ! " # # ! % " ! # ! # " ! $ & "# ! ( # ! " ! " ( # !" # ! $ ! " ! " ( ! ! # " # # % ! ( ! # $ % ! #
" ! " # ( # $# "# " # " ! % # ! $ # " # # "# ( $# $ % ! ( ( ( !" # "" & # ! $ ! # " $ !$
% " "#! $!#$! " & # # ! $ # & ! & ! # " ( "$ !" & # "#! ! # #! # " & & # # !# "$"# ! $ #
# % # $#
PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: SARAH MALONE & SALLY BUFTON; LOW RATTAN CHAIR FROM COX AND COX, WWW.COXANDCOX.CO.UK
modern maker Combine two crafts and get your macraweave on with Isabella Strambio’s statement cushion
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 39
01
02
03
09
10
11
HOW TO MAKE A MACRAWEAVE CUSHION MATERIALS Q 4mm 3ply Super Soft Cord, cotton blend, 180m/197yd per 1kg, one spool (ours was from www. macrameuk.com) Q Extremely Chunky Acrylic Mammoth, 100% acrylic, 2m (78¾") each in Mustard, Mushroom Pink, Light Teal, Midnight Blue and Chocolate (ours was from www.woolly mahoosive.com) Q 40 x 40cm (15¾ x 15¾") cushion
40 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
Q Masking tape Q Comb Q Matching sewing thread Q Sewing needle
This cushion might not transport you from cold, rainy Blighty to a Californian loft, but it’s definitely a step in the right direction to a bohemian realm where texture is king, and natural materials are fundamental for laidback style. Layering fibre art on fibre art, this macramé/weaving mash up is a tasselled, tactile dream come true. Turn to page 98 before starting to familiarise yourself with the different knotting techniques. Cut a 1.5m (591/8") length of cord and tape the ends to the work surface. Cut 30 3m (1181/8") lengths of cord and attach them centrally using lark’s head knot. Then, starting from the left, make a row of 15 square knots. 02 Next, leave out the first and last two lengths and make a row of 14 square knots. Below this, use all the lengths of cord to make a row of 15 square knots. 01
Next, work with just the first 20 lengths, starting from the left. Leave out the first two lengths and make a row of four square knots. Skip the first four lengths and make a row of three square knots below. Then, leave out the first six lengths and make a row of two square knots below. Make the last square knot to create an arrow shape. 04 Repeat Step 3 with the next 10 lengths, then finally with the last 10 lengths. You should end up with three arrow shapes. 05 Cut a 1.5m (591/8") length of cord to use as a guide, then use the double half hitch knot to create a wave under the three triangles. 06 Cut another 1.5m (591/8") length of cord to use as a guide and repeat Step 5 directly below. 07 Starting from the right, take the first four lengths and make a square knot. Take the two lengths on the left of the knot and make a square knot below. 03
05
07
08
13
14
15
Continue until you have four square knots under the right side of the wave, then repeat on the other side, as shown. Finally, join the two sides by tying a square knot in the middle. 09 Continue adding a diagonal row of square knots until you have a straight row of three square knots. 10 Repeat Steps 7-9 under each wave, then join them with square knots to finish with a straight row of 14 square knots. 11 Leave a gap of approximately 18cm (71/8") then mirror the row of 14 square knots, leaving out the first and last two lengths. 12 To mirror the top part of the design at the bottom, work Steps 2-10 in reverse order. 13 Cut a 1.5m (591/8") length of cord to use as a guide and, using the double half hitch knot, create a straight line below the last row of 15 square knots. To create a fringe, cut across the 30 lengths at the 08
centre of the 18cm (71/8") gap left, then unravel and comb the ends. 14 To weave the roving yarn on the middle part of the cushion, take 2m (78¾") of the first coloured yarn. Starting from the left, wrap one end twice around the first length. Weave across the width of the cushion, going over and under alternate lengths. It’s up to you how taut you want to pull the yarn – the looser you keep it, the bigger the loop will be, but you might need more yarn. Wrap the yarn twice more at the other side. 15 For the next row, pick a different shade of roving and weave as per Step 14, this time going under then over. Repeat Steps 14-15 to make a total of six rows of weaving. 16 Turn the piece over and tack in the ends of the roving yarn. Pin the completed piece right side (RS) up on the front of the cushion and sew in place around the outside with a needle and matching thread.
MEET THE MAKER ISABELLA STRAMBIO Self-taught maker Isabella began her creative journey by challenging herself to learn 12 crafts in 12 months and blogging the process. Now she shares her skills through workshops and online courses across the UK. www.twome.co.uk
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 41
TRY 5 ISSUES FOR JUST £5 when you subscribe today
SELF-CARE, RELAXATION & HAPPINESS
FOOD, FAMILY & FRIENDS
SAVE MINDFULNESS THROUGH MAKING
TRAVEL & ADVENTURE FOR BODY & SOUL
83%
2 easy ways to subscribe CALL NOW on 03330 162 153*(quote code ‘ITHA18’) ORDER ONLINE at www.buysubscriptions.com/ITHA18 *Calls from landlines will cost up to 9p per minute. Call charges from mobile phones will cost between 3p and 55p per minute but are included in free call packages. Lines are open 8am - 8pm weekdays and 9am–1pm Saturdays. Overseas readers call +44 1604 828 742. This offer ends 31st December 2018. 5 for £5 offer is available for UK residents paying by Direct Debit only. If you cancel within two weeks of receiving your fourth issue you will pay no more than £5. Otherwise your subscription will continue at £29.49 every 6 issues, saving 18%. Your subscription will start with the next available issue and you will receive 13 issues in a year. Full details of the Direct Debit guarantee are available upon request. Prices correct at point of print and subject to change.
Living CREATIVE INSPIRATION FOR YOUR LIFE AND HOME
We’re dreaming of a kitsch Christmas. The festive season is made for having fun, so go all out with pops of colour that’ll sit effortlessly in an eclectic home. Pick a couple of statement pieces and a handful of jazzy decs to clash with mid-century furniture, vintage w `à > ` Þ ÕÀ iÛiÀ iÝ«> ` } « > Ì family. www.merimeri.co.uk
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 43
GET THE LOOK MODERN KITSCHMAS Mix old favourites with new traditions to deck your halls for the fun season. We’re thinking playful rainbow accents, vintage finds and a bit of plant lady love.
01
Easy Christmas décor hack: swap a prominent print in your home for a playful seasonal banner or wreath. Bonus points will be awarded for texture, tassels and Scrooge-free slogans. www.cottonclara.com 01
44 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
02
We don’t know if Santa is a beads-andsequins kind of guy, but he can’t fail to be impressed if he encounters one of these embellished stockings by the fireplace. It could sweeten the deal. www. anthropologie.com 02
Here’s to making that cheers moment a rainbow one. Heck, we’ll even think twice about drinking eggnog if it’s served in one of RICE’s iconic block colour melamine tumblers. www. berylune.co.uk 03
Quirky details shine best on a blank canvas, so to speak – it’s all about balance. Modern shapes and colours are the foundation you’ll want for showcasing creative finds. That, and a velvet sofa. www. roseandgrey.co.uk 04
Tropical Christmas is a thing, right? If you’re wanting to steer your December more towards palm trees, flamingos and a tiki bar, Kitty McCall’s Tropical Landscape Cushion is a must. Let’s get abstract. www.kittymccall.com 05
Living 01
04 03
BRAND FOCUS THIS WAY TO THE CIRCUS
Boe Holder hand paints the most glorious plant pots for her playfullynamed business This Way to the Circus. They’re like party gladrags for your beloved succulents, and both minimal monochrome and abstract rainbow tastes are catered for. Find them at Mar Mar in Margate, or online. www.thisway tothecircus.co.uk
06 07
02
05
This jug’s geo texture reminds us of those vintage honeycomb Christmas decorations that might still be lurking in the attic. It’s immortalised in impeccable porcelain by Lenneke Wispelwey. www.ifeelsmug.com 06
When it comes to tree decs, anything goes. Think kitsch, retro and a bit bonkers. Animals, robots and sea creatures welcome. Hit up www.johnlewis.com, www.paperchase.com and www.coxandcox. co.uk for yours. 07
WEBSITE TO WATCH Girl and Bird
Cartophiles, rejoice! Bristol-based maker Annah of Girl and Bird creates all things map-related, including travel accessories, stationery and her signature bespoke map cushions and prints. There’s a cracking whiff of nostalgia about it all, and we’re bookmarking the site for indie Christmas gift ideas. www.girlandbird.com
03
01
One woman band Boe
believes beautiful plants deserve beautiful homes. 02
This Way to the Circus was
born when Boe couldn’t find jazzy plant pots she liked. 03
Boe runs the business
alongside shop Mar Mar, which houses an ever-growing jungle.
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 45
AT HOME WITH...
CELEBRATING A MODERN KITSCHMAS IN ZOE PEARSON’S PLANT-FILLED LONDON PAD
C
Words: HOLLY JOHNSON Photographs: RACHAEL SMITH
46 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
hristmas at UK Pinterest Lead Zoe Pearson’s London home is a colourful afair. With teal tassel garlands, giant paper honeycomb balls and a sparkly white tree decorated with robots, llamas and fish galore, the flat she shares with husband Neil – “a risk manager by day and an ultra-marathoner by night” – is like all your favourite pins in one place. Having moved in last spring, the couple have slowly been building up an assortment of decorations for the festive season, to brighten up their otherwise dark renovation project. “We decided to start buying a few new ornaments every year in the run-up to Christmas – just something that made us smile and then hopefully go with the ones we already have! My absolute favourites are the jellyfish, which I found in a little shop in Brooklyn, and the mice holding mistletoe – we met their designer at Cockpit Arts open studios.” Describing her style as “a happy accident”, Zoe loves to collect things from flea markets, trips abroad and – her favourite of all – FreeCycle. “It’s an ever-evolving mishmash of things that I just like and that thankfully seem to go together,” she laughs. “It’s a bit boho, a bit mid-century, a bit vintage school room mixed with granny-style china dogs and 70s wicker and spider plants.” Zoe’s love of items with personality is evident in every room. Her porcelain dogs, in particular, are a stand-out feature – relics of a bygone era that caught her eye when out shopping, and now an integral part of the home. “I found one
“It’s an ever-evolving mishmash of things I like that thankfully seem to go together!”
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 47
AT HOME WITH... “I find if something stays in the same place too long then you stop seeing it.”
pair in a thrift shop in Cambridge – I just liked their funny quizzical expressions, as well as the glint of gold on them. The next two came from a vintage shop in Hackney, and the black and white ones were found by my Dad’s wife.” The resident rescue cats – “one halfferal, half-pedigree, and one a mix of an owl, a fox and a cat” – don’t seem to mind their doggy housemates, and curl
48 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
up happily in a vintage armchair covered with a nostalgic fabric. “This originally came from FreeCycle,” Zoe tells us. “It was a very knackered ‘naughty chair’ – I think the child was genuinely doing a dance of glee when we picked it up. After some repairs, we re-covered it in Cath Kidston’s cowboy fabric.” Mid-century furniture is another feature of the cosy South London flat
– and again it’s a mixture of hand-medowns and one-of finds, each with a tale to tell. “The cabinet in the bedroom belonged to Neil’s aunt – when she passed away, we inherited a few of her things,” Zoe says. “The sideboard in the living room came from a café that was closing down in Glasgow. I’d always admired it and when they said they were closing down, I promised to give it a good home!”
For new items, Zoe’s go-to is Alkemi in Nunhead, along with Trouva and Anthropologie. “The wicker sun mirror in the bedroom is by Justina Blakeney x Anthropologie – I’d had my eye on this for a while and when it went into the sale, it was a bit of a pounce moment.” Things don’t stay in one place for long though, as the Pinterest pro likes to keep things fresh and move things around
01
02
03
04
“until they seem to find their place. I find if something stays in the same place too long then you stop seeing it.” With 10,000 pins under her belt, Zoe’s love of Pinterest is definitely more than just a career. “I consider myself very lucky to work on something that I love and use so much. I find the trends fascinating and I’m sure some spill over into my real life – I suspect my love of houseplants first
01
Two porcelain
for the pink of the
dogs, found in local
desert, lush greens
thrift shops, add
and 70s vibes.”
personality. 02
The coffee table
04
Zoe’s styling is
inspired by
was from vintage
Pinterest. She has
shop Wild Horses.
lots of interiors
03
Joshua Tree
inspiration: “I fell
boards, including secret ones!
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 49
AT HOME WITH...
came from Pinterest. Most of the time, I’m looking for practical ideas that will help our flat – like what to do with the platform that’s in our kitchen or how to brighten up a dark hall.” As the couple enjoy their second Christmas in the flat, Zoe admits there’s still a lot of work to be done. “We have squeaky floorboards to fix, radiators to paint behind, a random skirting board
50 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
01
02
03
04
that’s warped to fix and lots of other little things.” But despite its imperfections, their colourful, personality-filled place is home – and at the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about. Zoe Pearson is the UK Lead for Pinterest, helping the brand to grow across English speaking markets. You can see more of her personal styling on Instagram @convo_pieces or check out her pins at www.pinterest.co.uk/convo_pieces.
01
Zoe’s drawn to
03
The couple enjoy
items that make
having friends
her happy, such
round their table
as quirky baubles.
before Christmas.
02
Vintage maps
04
The focal point
from car boots,
of the lounge is a
charity shops and
monkey mask
generous friends
plant growing up
adorn the walls.
the wall.
Online shop – cottons, linens, corduroys, canvas & Japanese fabrics
www.fabricinspirations.co.uk
The
Possibilities are Endless
100% wool, 40% wool, Polyester & Handmade felts
www.woolfeltcompany.co.uk Est 2000 | Devon
Ingredients from us, handmade by you...
Recycle your magazine and seven days later it could come back as your newspaper
www.recyclenow.com
01237 420872
sales@thesoapkitchen.co.uk
52 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: SARAH MALONE & SALLY BUFFTON
Gather around Host a Christmas dinner to remember with Becki Clark’s easy-make tablescape
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 53
01
02
03
08
09
10
HOW TO MAKE A CHRISTMAS TABLESCAPE MATERIALS For the tablecloth Q Three avocados Q Linen tablecloth Q Large saucepan For the napkins Q Potato Q Mustard yellow fabric paint Q Napkins For the plates Q Posca paint pens in blue and gold Q Plain plates For the baubles Q Fillable baubles (ours were from www. hobbycraft.co.uk) Q Foliage sprigs Q Gold glitter
54 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
Special doesn’t always have to mean fancy. This year, instead of dusting off the best china, we’re embracing botanical vibes and a warm, gentle palette for a relaxed take on Christmas feasting. Think sprigs of greenery, natural dyeing and hand-drawn leafy details. Forget fast-paced festivities – slow down and simplify the season, taking time out for a lazy avocado brunch and a winter foraging walk to gather your materials. Tablecloth 01 Cut the avocados in half and scrape them out so you’re left with the skins and stones. Give them a good wash and leave them to dry. 02 Fill a large saucepan with water and bring it to the boil. Drop the avocado skins and stones in and let
the water simmer on a low heat. The water won’t change much to begin with, but keep checking it every 10 minutes and you’ll see the colour develop. To achieve a blush colour, simmer them for about 45 minutes. 03 You’ll see the colour appears a lot darker than blush pink, but you can do a test with a scrap of linen fabric to see how the colour’s looking. Once you’re happy, strain the dye to leave just the liquid. 04 Pop the tablecloth into the saucepan with the dye and let the fabric absorb it. Remove it from the pan and leave to dry.
Cut a medium-sized potato in half and cut a grid into one of the halves, as shown, creating a rectangle in the centre. 07 Carve the surrounding edges away leaving just the central rectangle at its original height. 08 Apply paint to the potato stamp, making sure the rectangle is fully covered, then begin printing a design on the napkins using the image as a guide. Work your way across the napkin. You don’t have to keep the prints in straight or horizontal lines – you can experiment first on a piece of paper to create a pattern you like.
Napkins 05 Press the napkins and lay them out, right side up, on a flat covered surface.
Plates 09 To draw a wreath design, work from the middle of the plate outwards so you don’t risk
06
04
06
07
11
12
13
smudging it. Start by using the blue pen to draw a small circle in the middle of the plate. You may find it helpful to use a small circular object as a template to draw around for this step. 10 Work around the circle adding teardrop shapes all the way around to create leaves, as shown. 11 Next, draw another larger circle around the smallest motif, as shown – you can do this by eye. Continue to add more teardrop shapes as leaves, this time slightly larger than the previous ones. 12 Add a final circle around the edge of the plate and draw the same teardrop botanical leaves. 13 To finish, add gold dots as berry accents onto the botanicals using the gold pen. You can work over the coloured leaves.
MEET THE MAKER BECKI CLARK Becki is a designer and illustrator who specialises in hand drawn typography and surface design. She teaches workshops in brush lettering and painting and loves getting to share her creative passions. www.beckiclark.com
STYLING TIPS Add strokes of ochre paint to ivory dinner candles for an ombre look, and fill clear baubles with a pinch of gold glitter and sprigs of evergreen foliage. For cutlery wraps, use small money wallets and letter onto them with your guests’ names. We used a brush pen, but you could use a pen and ink to get the same effect. MOLLIEMAKES.COM 55
Advertisement feature
GIFTS FOR THE HOME Six inspiring home décor finds to go right on your shopping list for Christmas
01
01
03
05
02
04
06
ROO-TID
03
PEASTYLE
05
BONBI FOREST
Calling all animal lovers: Roo-tid’s nature-inspired
Create a personal sanctuary this autumn by adding
Artist Lee Foster-Wilson’s beautiful ‘There is always
homeware and gifts will brighten up anyone’s day.
natural layers and textures to your home. Peastyle’s
shelter here’ print offers up a comforting sentiment to
Find their fresh and cute designs on bags, aprons,
earthy vases and plant pots are ideal for displaying
decorate any cosy nook in your home. It’s available in
cushion covers, tea towels, mounted prints and more.
foraged finds from crisp winter walks.
both A4 and A3 sizes for £8-10.
www.roo-tid.com
www.peastyle.co.uk
www.bonbiforest.com
02
KINDRED KRAFTS BY LOUISE
04
MISS ELLA
06
IN THE MOMENT
Lover of rustic style Louise creates personalised home
Shop statement jewellery with a quirky twist,
Looking for the gift that keeps on giving? Subscribe
décor pieces using reclaimed wood – they’d make
homewares, DIY kits, prints and cards from the
to In The Moment for a friend or loved one and they’ll
extra special gifts for Christmas. Choose a wooden
whimsical world of Miss Ella. And, with 20% off using
receive a magazine filled with insightful writing,
plaque or sign with hand-crafted details.
code MOLLIEMAKES18 you can treat yourself, too.
mindful makes and feel-good features every month.
www.kindredkraftbylouise.etsy.com
www.shopmissella.etsy.com
www.calmmoment.com/subscribe
56 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: SARAH MALONE & SALLY BUFTON; JAVA DARK OAK CONSOLE FROM COX AND COX, WWW.COXANDCOX.CO.UK; KINSHIP FLORAL RED CERAMIC VASE FROM OLIVER BONAS, WWW.OLIVERBONAS.COM
Yarn over
Shortcut your way to statement lighting with Mr Carrington’s easy make
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 57
01
02
03
07
08
09
HOW TO MAKE A YARN WRAPPED LAMPSHADE MATERIALS Q Rico Creative Cotton Aran, 100% cotton, 85m/93yd per 50g, two balls in Green (ours was from www. hobbycraft.co.uk) Q Knitcraft Cotton Blend Plain DK, 50% acrylic, 50% cotton, 215m/235yd per 100g, one ball in Mustard Q Women’s Institute Home Cotton Aran, 85% cotton, 15% polyester, 160m/175yd per 100g, one ball in Cream
58 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
Q Two matching lampshades with slanting sides Q Masking tape Q Craft knife Q Florist’s wire Q Eraser
Got a free afternoon and way more yarn than you could comfortably use in your lifetime? Enter the colour block pendant lampshade. It’s a joyfully simple way to upcycle two plain lampshades into one statement piece. Plus, there’s all the fun and faffing of picking the exact shades to work with your décor. Upping the ooh-factor in your gaff just got a whole lot easier. For safety, use LED light bulbs and never leave the lampshade switched on unattended. When selecting the yarn colours, it’s best to use three – a couple of bolder colours that complement each other and a third neutral shade to offset them. 01
Place one lamp on top of the other, as shown, and using a pencil and the main image as a guide, mark out sections for each stripe of colour. They don’t have to all be the same width. 03 Using a pencil, write the initial of each yarn colour on the sections you want to wrap with it on both of the lampshades. 04 Secure the end of the yarn for the first section in place using masking tape, leaving some excess yarn to tie off later. 05 Wrap the first marked section by passing the yarn up through the lamp and around the outside. You may need to push the strands together as you go to keep them tidy. When you get to the end of the section, tie on the next yarn 02
04
05
06
10
11
12
colour on the inside of the lamp using a double knot, as shown. 06 Use an eraser to remove the pencil marks as you go to avoid them showing through when the lamp is switched on. 07 Continue to wind the yarn around and up through the lamp to wrap each section, as in Step 5, until the whole lamp is covered. The lengths of yarn should sit side by side and not overlap each other. You may find it helpful to hold the lampshade between your knees, passing the ball of yarn through from one hand to the other to speed up the wrapping process. 08 When you get to the end, remove the masking tape from the first strand of yarn and tie it to the end of the last strand of yarn.
Use scissors to trim off any long tails from where you’ve knotted the yarns on the inside of the lamp. 10 Repeat Steps 4-9 with the second lampshade – you may want to evaluate the colour distribution now you’ve completed one. 11 Once you’ve wrapped the second lamp, stack it on top of the first one, as shown. Next, use a craft knife to carefully cut a small slit into four sides of each lamp where they sit together, just above the wire frame. 12 Pass a small piece of florist’s wire through each of the slits and pull it tightly, then twist the ends together on the inside to secure both lampshades together. To finish off, push the yarn over the wire to disguise it. 09
MEET THE MAKER MR CARRINGTON Iwan’s a lifestyle blogger from London who loves upcycling. His YouTube channel features DIYs, plant advice, hauls and home decor ideas. He’s also a freelance producer and director for international TV shows and brands. www.mrcarrington.co.uk
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 59
Advertisement feature
Winter sparkles Luxe, pampering pine cones – The Soap Kitchen shows us how to make glittery, seasonal soaps
1
3
4
5
2 You’ll need… -0HOW DQG SRXU VRDS EDVH -9HJHWDEOH JO\FHULQH RSWLRQDO
-Essential or fragrance oil -6RDS FRORXUDQWV ZH XVHG PLFDV DQG (FR6SDUNV
-Pipettes or measuring spoons -,VRSURS\O DOFRKRO DV D VSUD\
-Pine cone moulds -Heat resistant measuring jugs
RU VPDOO SDQV LI XVLQJ WKH KRE
-$ PLFURZDYH RU KRE
<RX FDQ Ä&#x2020;QG HYHU\WKLQJ \RX QHHG DW 7KH 6RDS .LWFKHQ ZZZ WKHVRDSNLWFKHQ FR XN
Before you begin, ensure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve read each step, so that you can work quickly with the melted soap Ã¥ RWKHUZLVH LW ZLOO VHW KDUG EHIRUH \RXèYH Ä&#x2020;QLVKHG
3
1
GG VRPH FRORXU $V PLFDV DUH SRZGHU LW OSV WR PL[ WKHP ZLWK D OLWWOH RLO RU JO\FHULQH Ä&#x2020;UV RU D VPRRWK SDVWH 0L[ ZLWK WKH VRDS EDVH
Gather your materials, then work out how PXFK VRDS \RX QHHG 7R GR WKLV Ä&#x2020;OO WKH PRXOG with water while itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the scales to see the weight and then weigh the base to the same Ä&#x2020;JXUH $OZD\V XVH D OLWWOH ELW PRUH VRDS EDVH WKDQ you need because some of it will cling to the side RI WKH MXJ <RXèOO QHHG DSSUR[LPDWHO\ J RI EDVH IRU WKH SLQH FRQH
2
Cut the soap base into small chunks and HLWKHU PHOW LQ D PLFURZDYH DW VHFRQG EXUVWV RU JHQWO\ RQ WKH KRE 6WLU WKH VRDS IRU D VPRRWK FRQVLVWHQF\ 2QFH WKH VRDS LV PHOWHG EH FDUHIXO å LW FDQ JHW YHU\ KRW
1RZ DGG WKH HVVHQWLDO RU IUDJUDQFH RLOV )RU HYHU\ J RI VRDS EDVH DGG J PO RI HVVHQWLDO RU IUDJUDQFH RLO
5
1RZ SRXU WKH VRDS PL[ LQWR WKH PRXOG DQG VSUD\ ZLWK DOFRKRO WR UHPRYH DQ\ EXEEOHV /HDYH WR VHW FRPSOHWHO\ <RX FDQ VSHHG XS WKLV SURFHVV E\ SODFLQJ LW LQ WKH IULGJH 2.ð FOHDQ XS WLPH 2QH ODVW WLS :DVK DOO HTXLSPHQW E\ KDQG DQG QRW LQ WKH GLVKZDVKHU 7KH H[FHVV VRDS WKDW VWLFNV WR \RXU HTXLSPHQW FDQ FDXVH VXGV DQG PDNH \RXU GLVKZDVKHU OHDN
On the horizon
THE ART OF CROCHET BLANKETS © 2018 BY RACHELE CARMONA, INTERWEAVE, AN IMPRINT OF F+W MEDIA INC
Take a tapestry crochet journey to create Rachele Carmona’s sampler blanket
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 61
PANEL 1 COLOUR CHART
PANEL 5 COLOUR CHART
HOW TO MAKE A CROCHET BLANKET MATERIALS Q Wool and the Gang Shiny Happy Cotton, 100% Peruvian pima cotton, 142m/155yd per 100g, two balls in Ivory White (01) (Yarn A) and Mellow Yellow (15) (Yarn F), three balls in Magic Mint (18) (Yarn B) and Coral Crush (17) (Yarn D), five balls in Midnight Blue (05) (Yarn C), one ball in Timberwolf (09) (Yarn E) Q 5mm (UK 6, US H/8) crochet hook Q 5.5mm (UK 5, US I/9) crochet hook Q Yarn needle TENSION 14 sts and 14 rows to measure 10cm (4") in dc using a 5.5mm hook, blocked ABBREVIATIONS (UK) st(s) stitch(es) sp(s) space(es) ch chain ch-sp chain space ss slip stitch dc double crochet tr treble 62 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
yrh yarn round hook dc2tog double crochet 2 together – (insert hook in next st, yrh and draw loop through) twice, yrh and draw through all 3 loops on hook tr2tog treble 2 together – (yrh, insert hook in next st, yrh and pull up loop, yrh and draw through 2 loops) twice, yrh and draw through all loops on hook tr3tog treble 3 together – (yrh, insert hook in next st, yrh and pull up loop, yrh, draw through 2 loops) 3 times, yrh and draw through all loops on hook tr5tog treble 5 together tr6tog treble 6 together bobble (yrh, insert hook in next st, yrh and pull up loop, yrh and draw through 2 loops) 5 times, yrh and draw through all 6 loops on hook inc (1dc, ch1, 1dc) in same st or sp indicated PLT Pull Loop Through join – see page 98 FINISHED SIZE 127 x 152cm (50 x 60")
Let’s just come out and say it – a crochet blanket this beautiful and complex is nothing short of a masterpiece. This stitch samplerstyle piece was inspired by the free-spirited fabric designs of April Rhodes, specifically the Arid Horizon print in her Arizona collection for Art Gallery Fabrics. Buckle up and prepare for an adventure in pattern, colourwork techniques and texture.
border. See the Schematic on page 65 for the layout. Once all panels are joined, a final border is added. Use a 5.5mm hook throughout unless stated otherwise.
Tapestry crochet This is a method for using two or more colours. When using tapestry crochet, you will use two colours of yarn on each row and you need to carry the yarn not in use – this is done by encasing the yarn as you work by working over the unused thread. The charts show the colour of the stitches with each square of colour representing a st. Change to a new colour on the last step of the previous st. The colour not used in any row can be left at the edge and twisted with the other yarn as you complete the rows.
Panel 1 – Tapestry crochet Row 1 using Yarn A, ch29, 1dc in 2nd ch from hook (turning ch does not count as st), 1dc in each ch across, changing to B in last dc, turn [28 dc] Row 1 of Panel 1 Colour Chart complete, encase unused yarn (A or B) on each of the following rows: Row 2 following Panel 1 Colour Chart, using Yarn B, 1dc in each of first 9 sts, changing to Yarn A on last dc, 1dc in each of next 8 sts, changing to Yarn B on last dc, 1dc in each of next 10 sts, changing to Yarn A on last st, 1dc in last st, turn Rows 3-7 following Panel 1 Colour Chart for colour changes, work in dc rows Rows 8-169 rep Rows 2-7 27 times Rows 170-172 rep Rows 2-4 Row 173 using Yarn A only, 1dc in each st across, fasten off
Instructions The blanket is made from 7 panels. Each has a border and, from Panel 2 onwards, is joined to the previous panel on the last stage of that
Border Round 1 with RS facing, join Yarn A with a ss in top right-hand corner before one long side, ch1 (does not count as st), *3dc in corner st, work
PANEL 6 COLOUR CHART
Repeat
148dc evenly spaced across long side, 3dc in next corner, work 25dc evenly spaced across short side; rep from * around, join with a ss in first dc Round 2 ss in next dc, ch1 (does not count as st), *3dc in centre st of corner, dc in each st across to next corner; rep from * around, join with a ss in first dc, fasten off Panel 2 Row 1 (RS) using Yarn A, ch3 and join with a ss in 3rd ch to form a ring, ch3 (counts as 1tr), 8tr in ring, turn [9 sts] Row 2 inc in first st, *ch1, miss next st, 1dc next st, ch1, miss next st, inc in next st; rep from * once, turn [15 sts] Row 3 inc in first 1ch-sp, (ch1, 1dc in next 1ch-sp) across to centre 1ch-sp, ch1, inc in centre 1ch-sp, (ch1, 1dc in next 1ch-sp) across to last 1ch-sp, ch1, inc in last 1ch-sp, turn [19 sts] Row 4 rep Row 3 [23 sts] Row 5 (pattern row) 1dc in first 1chsp, (ch1, 1dc in next 1ch-sp) across to centre 1ch-sp, ch1, inc in centre 1ch-sp, (ch1, 1dc in next 1ch-sp) across to last 1ch-sp, ch1, 1dc in last 1ch-sp, turn Rows 6-8 rep Row 5 Row 9 drop Yarn A to be picked
up later, join Yarn C, rep Row 5, do not turn, drop Yarn C to be picked up later Row 10 pick up Yarn A at righthand side of work and rep Row 5, turn Row 11 rep Row 5, do not turn, drop Yarn A Row 12 pick up Yarn C at righthand side from 2 rows below and rep Row 5, fasten off Yarn C, pick up Yarn A Rows 13-23 rep Row 5 Rows 24-143 rep Rows 9-23 8 times, maintaining colour change Rows 144-151 rep Rows 9-16, fasten off Fill corners at top of Panel 2 to square off Right-hand side Row 1 with RS facing, join Yarn A with a ss in first 1ch-sp, 1dc in same 1ch-sp, (ch1, 1dc in next 1ch-sp) repeated across, putting last dc in centre 1ch-sp, turn [11 sts] Rows 2-5 1dc in first 1ch-sp, (ch1, 1dc in next 1ch-sp) repeated across, turn Row 6 1dc in 1ch-sp, fasten off Left-hand side Rows 1-6 with WS facing, rejoin Yarn A in first 1ch-sp, and rep Rows 1-6 as for right-hand side, fasten off
Border Long side 1 Row 1 with RS facing, join Yarn A in top right-hand corner before one long side, being sure to orient Yarn C arrows as in the main image, ch3 (counts as 1tr) in first st, work 151tr evenly spaced across long side, turn Row 2 1dc in each st across, fasten off Long side 2 Rep Rows 1 and 2 of Long side 1 on bottom long side of panel, do not fasten off, turn work to RS Joining row Line up bottom edge of Panel 2 with top edge of Panel 1. Continuing with Yarn A, work 2dc in first st, remove loop from hook, insert hook in centre st of corner on Panel 1, catch loop, PLT to front of work, 1dc in same st to complete corner, PLT in corresponding st on Panel 1, (1dc in next st on current panel, PLT to previous panel), ending with 2nd dc of next 3dc corner, work 1dc in same corner to complete it, work 17dc evenly spaced across short side of panel, 3dc in 3rd corner, 1dc in each st across top edge to next corner, 3dc in corner st, 17dc evenly spaced MOLLIEMAKES.COM 63
across short side of panel, join with a ss in first dc, fasten off Panel 3 Row 1 (WS) using Yarn D, ch155, 1tr in 4th ch from hook (ch3 missed counts as 1 tr), 1tr in each ch across, turn [153 sts] Row 2 1dc in each st across, changing to Yarn A in last st, turn Row 3 1dc in each of first 2 sts, bobble in next st, *1dc in each of next 3 sts, bobble in next st; rep from * across to last 2 sts, 1dc in each of last 2 sts, do not turn, fasten off A [38 bobbles, 115 dc] Row 4 with WS still facing, join Yarn D in first st, ch3 (counts as 1tr) in first st, 1tr in each st across, turn [153 sts] Row 5 1dc in each st across, changing to Yarn A in last st, turn Row 6 1dc in each of first 4 sts, bobble in next st, *1dc in each of next 3 sts, bobble in next st; rep from * across to last 4 sts, 1dc in each of last 4 sts, do not turn, fasten off Yarn A [37 bobbles] Row 7 rep Row 4 Rows 8-12 rep Rows 2-6 Rows 13-17 rep Rows 7-11, fasten off Line up bottom of Panel 3 with top edge of Panel 2 With RS facing, join Yarn D in bottom left corner of Panel 3. Join and work as for Panel 2 Joining row, but work 22dc evenly spaced across short sides of panel, join with a ss in first dc, fasten off Panel 4 Base triangle (make 10) Row 1 (RS) using Yarn E, ch3, join with a ss in 3rd ch from hook to form a ring, ch4 (counts as 1tr, ch1), (3tr, ch1) twice in ring, 1tr in ring, turn [8 tr, 3 1ch-sps] Row 2 ch4 (counts as 1tr, ch1), 3tr in next 1ch-sp, (3tr, ch1, 3tr) in next 1ch-sp, 3tr in next 1ch-sp, ch1, 1tr in last st, turn [14 tr, 3 1ch-sps] Row 3 ch4 (counts as 1tr, ch1), 3tr in 1ch-sp, 3tr between 3-tr groups, (3tr, ch1, 3tr) in next 1ch-sp, 3tr between 3-tr groups, 3tr in next 64 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
1ch-sp, ch1, 1tr in last st, fasten off (20 tr, 3 1ch-sps) Base triangles will be joined endto-end to form a strip Holding first base triangle with RS facing, join Yarn E in 1st st (beg ch3) of Row 3, 1dc in same st, *1dc in next 1ch-sp, 1dc in each st across to next 1ch-sp, 3dc in next 1ch-sp, 1dc in each st across to next 1chsp, 1dc in next 1ch-sp**, leave final st of base triangle unworked, do not fasten off, pick up next base triangle, miss first st; rep from * across next 9 base triangles, ending last rep at ** forming a strip, 1dc in last st, rotate piece to work across bottom edge of strip, work 152dc evenly spaced across bottom edge of base triangle strip, fasten off This is 15dc across bottom of each base triangle, plus one extra dc at beginning and end of row of bottom edge Fill triangle gaps This step will square off beginning and end of base triangle strip, starting with right-hand side of strip. Then centre triangle gaps are filled in to make a long rectangle. Right-hand side Row 1 (RS) holding first base triangle with RS facing, join Yarn C with a ss in first dc, 1dc in same st, 1dc in each st across, placing final dc in centre peak dc of first triangle, turn [13 sts] Row 2 ch2, tr2tog in over next 2 sts (together these count as 1tr3tog), 1tr in each of next 7 sts, tr3tog over last 3 sts, turn [9 sts] Row 3 ch2, tr2tog in over next 2 sts (together these count as 1tr3tog), 1tr in each of next 3 sts, tr3tog over last 3 sts, turn [5 sts] Row 4 ch2, tr2tog in over next 2 sts (together these count as 1tr3tog), tr2tog over last 2 sts, turn Row 5 dc2tog over 2 sts, fasten off Left-hand side Rows 1-5 holding last base triangle with WS facing, work same as for right-hand side.
Centre triangle gaps Fill all 9 gaps in this way Row 1 with RS facing, join Yarn C in top peak dc above first Base Triangle, 1dc in same st, 1dc in each of next 10 sts, dc2tog over next 2 sts, 1dc in each of next 11 sts, with last dc being worked in next peak dc, turn Row 2 ch2, tr2tog in over next 2 sts (together these count as 1tr3tog), 1tr in each of next 6 sts, tr5tog over next 5 sts, 1tr in each of next 6 sts, tr3tog over last 3 sts, turn Row 3 ch2, tr2tog in over next 2 sts (together these count as 1tr3tog), 1tr in each of next 2 sts, tr5tog over next 5 sts, 1tr in each of next 2 sts, tr3tog over last 3 sts, turn Row 4 ch3, tr6tog over next 6 sts, fasten off Border Long side 1 Row 1 With RS facing, join A in top right corner just before long side, being sure to orient the panel with base triangles on the bottom, as in images of finished piece, ch3 (counts as 1tr), work 151tr evenly spaced across long side, turn Row 2 1dc in each st across, fasten off Long side 2 Repeat Rows 1 and 2 on bottom long side of panel, but do not fasten off, turn work to RS Line up bottom of Panel 4 with top edge of Panel 3 With RS facing, using Yarn A, join and work as for Panel 2 joining row, but work 13dc evenly spaced across short sides of panel, join with ss in first dc, fasten off Panel 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tapestry crochet Row 1 using Yarn F, ch18, 1dc in 2nd ch from hook, 1dc in each ch across, changing to Yarn A on last st, turn [18 dc] Row 1 of Panel 5 Colour Chart complete Rows 2-9 follow Panel 5 Colour Chart, turn
Rows 10-27 rep Rows 1-9 twice Rows 28-36 reverse chart, working 9-row triangle in opposite direction starting with Row 9 of chart, working back to Row 1 Rows 37-72 rep Rows 28-36 4 times Row 73 using Yarn A, 1dc in each st across, turn Rows 74-100 rep Rows 1-9 of chart 3 times Rows 101-136 rep Rows 28-36 4 times Row 137 rep Row 73 Rows 138-155 rep Rows 1-9 of chart twice Rows 156-173 rep Rows 28-36 twice, fasten off Border Long side 1 Row 1 with RS facing, join Yarn A in top right-hand corner before top long side, ch3 (counts as 1tr) in first st, work 151tr evenly spaced across long side, turn Row 2 1dc in each st across, fasten off Long side 2 Rep Rows 1 and 2 on bottom long side of panel, do not fasten off, turn work to RS facing Line up bottom of Panel 5 with top edge of Panel 4. With RS facing, using Yarn A, join and work as for Panel 2 Joining row, but work 21dc evenly spaced across short sides of panel, join with ss in first dc, fasten off Panel 6 Follow chart for Panel 6. From one red line to the other is one centre repeat. Work three centre repeats for a total of 4 diamond shapes. Row 1 using Yarn C, ch151, 2tr in 4th ch from hook to make first 3-tr group on Row 1 of Panel 6 Chart, *miss next 2 ch, 3tr in next ch; rep from * across, turn [50 3-tr groups] Row 1 of Panel 6 Chart complete. Row 2 ch3 (counts as 1tr), 3tr between first two 3-tr groups of row below, **(3tr between next 3-tr groups) 4 times, changing to A in last yrh of last st, (3tr between next
3-tr groups) 3 times, changing to C in last yrh of last st***, (3tr between next 3-tr groups) 9 times; rep from * across, ending last rep at ***, (3tr between next 3-tr groups) 5 times, 1tr in last 1tr, turn [48 3-tr groups; 1 tr on each end] Row 3 ch3, 2tr in same st, 3tr between next two 3-tr groups, then work as established following Panel 6 Chart Rows 4-21 work as established following Chart, fasten off
SCHEMATIC
Panel 7
Panel 6
Panel 5 Panel 4
Border Long side 1 Row 1 with RS facing, join Yarn C in top right-hand corner before long side, ch3 (counts as 1tr), work 151tr evenly spaced across long side, turn Row 2 1dc in each st across, fasten off
Panel 3
Panel 2
Panel 1
Long side 2 Rep Rows 1 and 2 on bottom long side of panel, do not fasten off, turn work to RS facing Line up bottom of Panel 6 with top edge of Panel 5. With RS facing, using Yarn C, join and work as for Panel 2 Joining row, but work 24dc evenly spaced across short sides of panel, join with ss in first dc, fasten off Panel 7 Work as Panel 1 Line up bottom of Panel 7 with top edge of Panel 6, using Yarn A, join and work as for Panel 2 Joining row, join with ss in first dc, fasten off Blanket border Round 1 using a 5mm hook, join Yarn A in any corner, ch1 (does not count as st), *3dc in corner st, work dc evenly across to next corner; rep from * around, join with a ss in first dc. Work the same number of dc on opposing sides of the piece Round 2 ss in next dc, ch1 (counts as 1dc), *3dc in corner st, 1dc in each st across to next corner; rep from * around, join with a ss in first dc, fasten off and weave in ends.
THE ART OF CROCHET BLANKETS This project appears in The Art of Crochet Blankets by Rachele Carmona (ÂŁ18.99), published by Interweave. The book features 18 beautiful blanket designs inspired by the work of modern makers and artists. www.interweave.com
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 65
Advertisement feature
GIFTS FOR CRAFTERS From creative business inspiration to seasonal stitching, find the ideal presents for fellow makers
01
01
03
05
02
04
06
DRAW A BETTER BUSINESS
03
THE HANDMADE FLORIST
05
CORINNE LAPIERRE
Draw a Better Business is the essential illustrated book
Learn to make beautiful handmade felt flowers with
This beautiful needle case kit is perfect for crafters
for people with creative small businesses. Uncap the
craft kits from The Handmade Florist. Their range of
who want to develop their embroidery skills. Presented
marker pens and get the business advantage. Special
creative kits includes gorgeous wreaths and bouquets
in a cute craft box, it contains everything you’ll need:
offer: it’s only £9.99 with code MOLLIEDRAW.
bursting with year-round colour.
wool-mix felt, embroidery threads, needles and
www.practicalinspiration.com/drawabetterbusiness
www.thehandmadeflorist.co.uk
threader, for just £9.60. www.corinnelapierre.com
02
MAKERLY CRAFTS
04
CRAFTPOD
06
SIMPLY CROCHET
Makerly is a monthly subscription box for craft
Join the Craftpod club and treat yourself, or friends,
Crochet can be as simple or challenging as you want to
fanatics. Each month subscribers receive a new
to a yearly subscription or try a one-off box. You’ll
make it, so pick up a new craft in 2019 with the help of
inspiring craft kit to try, including tools, materials and
recieve seasonally-inspired DIY crafting and stitching
a subscription to Simply Crochet magazine – each issue
patterns. Various gift subscriptions are available too.
projects, with all the materials and instructions
comes with beginner tutorials, inspiring patterns and
www.makerlycrafts.com
included. www.craftpod.co.uk
an amazing gift. www.simplycrochetmag.co.uk/subscribe
66 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
EXCLUSIVE PAPERS!
SNIP THESE WHIMSICAL PATTERNS AND POSTERS TO TAKE YOUR WRAPPING AND CARDMAKING UP A GEAR. SHARE YOUR MAKES USING #MOLLIEMAKERS Illustrations: JEN PETERS WWW.JENBPETERS.COM
Making HAND-PICKED PROJECTS TO FALL IN LOVE WITH
Not everyone can pull off a green roll neck, but this pup? Bow wow. We basically lost it when news of Wool and the Gang’s Pet Range hit our inboxes – a collection of knit and crochet kits for dog jumpers, bandanas, collars, blankets and toys is what our doggo dreams are made of. www.woolandthegang.com
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 75
Advertisement feature
GIFTS FOR FRIENDS Six thoughtful finds from indie makers for treating your besties this Christmas
01
01
03
05
02
04
06
SHARK ALLEY
03
MISS KNIT NAT
05
LIZZY CHAMBERS
Inspired by animals and a love of pattern and natural
The perfect alternative to a hat, Miss Knit Nat’s
Lizzy Chambers’ botanical glass jewellery is
forms, Sarah from Shark Alley has created a charming
headbands keep you cosy and are made in Great
hand-filled with British flowers grown by the designer
collection of hand-painted brooches, necklaces,
Britain using striking geometric patterns and
and a collection of UK farms. Look at the complete
earrings and printed pieces. www.sharkalley.co.uk
colourways. www.missknitnat.com
range available online. www.lizzychambers.com
02
EMMA HUNTER JEWELLERY
04
EMMA HUNTER JEWELLERY
06
PROJECT CALM
Sewists and jewellery lovers will adore a silver bracelet
These delightful, handmade, sterling silver bangles by
Discover mindfulness and find time to create and
or chain with these handmade sterling silver cotton
Emma Hunter make a lovely gift. A hidden message
escape with a subscription to Project Calm magazine
reel charms by silversmith Emma Hunter. Combine
inside adds even more sparkle to the wearer’s day.
– you’ll receive insightful writing, original projects to
with a silver button charm to embrace all things craft.
Rings and necklaces are also available.
make and inspiring photography.
www.emmahunterjewellery.com
www.emmahunterjewellery.com
www.calmmoment.com/subscribe
76 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: SARAH MALONE & SALLY BUFTON
Prep for sparkler season with Emma Lois Munnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cosy knitted mittens
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 77
HOW TO MAKE KNITTED MITTENS MATERIALS Q DROPS Lima, 65% wool, 35% alpaca, 100m/109yd per 50g, two balls in Pearl Grey (9020) (Yarn A), one ball each in Goldenrod (2923) (Yarn B) and Powder Pink (3145) (Yarn C) Q 2mm (UK 14, US 0) circular knitting needle Q 4mm (UK 8, US 6) circular knitting needle If you use the magic loop method you’ll need a cable at least 80cm (32") long, alternatively use a circular needle 25cm (9" or 10") long Q Six different stitch markers Q Yarn needle Q Scrap yarn TENSION Approx. 21 sts and 28 rows to measure 10cm (4") over stocking stitch 78 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
ABBREVIATIONS (UK) st(s) stitch(es) k knit p purl k2tog knit 2 sts together kfb knit into the front and back of the st BOR beginning of round pm place marker sm slip marker FINISHED SIZE Small: length from cuff to end of hand approx. 18cm (71/8") Medium: length from cuff to end of hand approx. 19m (7½") Large: length from cuff to end of hand approx. 21.5cm (8½")
Fancy adding a me-made newbie to your collection of winter woollies? If you’re just getting into knitting, these mittens will ease you into colourwork – there is a chart, but we promise it’s not scary. Or, if you’re a seasoned stitcher, indulge in a quick knit that’ll make a fab gift. We love the grellow palette, but you can easily switch the colours. The small is a good fit for teens, and the large will work for fellas. Instructions The pattern is written for the smallest size with medium and large size shown in brackets where the pattern differs i.e. S (M, L) Using 2mm circular needle and Yarn A, cast on 37 (43, 45) sts Join using the invisible join technique, slip the first cast on st to the right needle and pass the last cast on st over it, pull the tail end to close the join [36 (42, 44) sts] Place BOR marker Cuff round (k1, p1) to end of round
Repeat cuff round until the cuff measures 9cm (35/8") from cast on edge Change to 4mm needles and pick up Yarn B Round 1 k in Yarn B Round 2 (k1 in Yarn B, k1 in Yarn A) to end Rounds 3-4 k in Yarn A Round 5 (k1 in Yarn A, k1 in Yarn B) to end Rounds 6-7 k in Yarn A Round 8 (k1 in Yarn B, k1 in Yarn A) to end Rounds 9-10 k in Yarn A Round 11 (k1 in Yarn A, k1 in Yarn B) to end Rounds 12-13 k in Yarn A Round 14 (k1 in Yarn B, k1 in Yarn A) to end Break Yarn B Round 15 k in Yarn A Large size only: continue knitting every round in Yarn A until the piece measures 6.5cm (25/8") from the top of the cuff Thumb gusset Next round from the BOR, kfb, k1,
kfb, pm, k to end Rounds 1-2 k every st around Round 3 kfb, k to one st before m, kfb, sm, k to end Repeat the last 3 rounds 6 (6, 7) times more Place the 17 (17, 19) sts between the BOR marker and second marker on scrap yarn to make the thumb later Remove the second marker and k1, k2tog for size S (cast on 1 st for size M, cast on 7 sts for size L) The sts on the body section will now be 32 (40, 48) Place a stitch marker every 8 sts Now work from the chart on page 98 for 7 rounds – the chart reads from right to left and top to bottom, and is repeated every 8 sts around. All sts are k Remove all markers, remembering to keep the BOR marker in place Knit every round in Yarn B until the piece measures 2.5cm (3.5cm, 3.5cm) (1" (13/8", 13/8")) from top of thumb gusset If you’re making the mittens for
yourself, stop knitting at the tip of your ring finger Count 16 (20, 24) sts from BOR and place the second marker Decrease round k2tog, k until 2 sts before m, k2tog, sm, k2tog, k until 2 sts before BOR marker, k2tog Repeat decrease round until 8 sts remain on the needles Break yarn, thread through the live sts and pull tightly
MEET THE MAKER EMMA LOIS MUNN Emma’s a British knit designer and indie dyer based in Spain. Her joyful creations are inspired by childhood and cosiness, and her playful combinations of lively colourwork are designed to make you smile. www.emma knittyyarns.etsy.com
Thumb Slip the 17 (17, 19) held stitches back onto the 4mm circular needle, knit across, pick up 1 (1, 5) sts from the body (or cast on sts), pm and join The sts on the body section will now be 18 (18, 24) K each round for 5cm (5cm, 6.5cm) (2" (2", 25/8")) Next round k2tog around, leaving you with 9 (9, 12) sts Break yarn, pull through sts tightly Weave in ends, including any small holes caused by picking up sts at the thumb base, and wet block. Turn up the cuff to finish. MOLLIEMAKES.COM 79
US READERS
SAVE 78% JUST 13 ISSUES FOR $39.95*
Beautiful, easy-to-make craft projects
Plus!
Inspiration from creatives and designer-makers
amazing gift with EVERY ISSUE
SUBSCRIBER BENEFITS 13 issues for $39.95 – saving 78% on the shop price
Or, try 3 issues for just $9.95 and then $14.97 by quarterly continuous credit Delivery direct to your door – never miss an issue!
ORDER NOW
Online: www.buysubscriptions.com/a049
or call toll-free on 1 800 428 3003 (quoting code a049) Terms and conditions: *North American savings compared to buying 13 full priced issues at $13.99 from the US newsstand. Payment is taken in US$. This offer is for new print subscribers only. You will receive 13 issues in a year. Prices correct at point of print and subject to change. If at any time during the irst 60 days you are dissatisied in any way, please notify us in writing and we will refund you all un-mailed issues. Offer ends 31st March 2019.
PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: SARAH MALONE AND SALLY BUFTON
Sophie Filomenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bold polymer necklace = 80s vibes done right
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 81
01
02
03
07
08
09
HOW TO MAKE A POLYMER CLAY NECKLACE MATERIALS Q Polymer clay in white, pink, yellow, dark purple and turquoise Q 51cm (201/8") black waxed cotton cord Q Wooden skewer Q Craft knife Q Greaseproof paper Q Baby wipes Q Fine sandpaper
All that’s standing between you and this necklace of dreams is a bit of canny clay rolling. Three beads and you’ll be there. Nod to the Memphis Milano movement with your version by embracing the brightest colours and playful squiggles – think one part Saved by the Bell to two parts modern statement jewellery. Break off small amounts of the white, turquoise, yellow, purple and pink clay and lay down some greaseproof paper on a flat, smooth work surface. For the large bead, roll the black and white pieces into cylinder shapes, as shown, and the others into balls, then flatten the white piece and press the wooden skewer into it. 02 Close the clay around the skewer and roll until smooth. Don’t 01
82 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
press too hard, and make sure the clay isn’t rolled too thinly. Use the baby wipes to clean any smudges. 03 Now it’s time to start adding some colour. Roughly tear tiny pieces of turquoise clay and press them into the white bead, spaced out evenly along the length. Gently roll smooth as you go. 04 In the same way, add in sprinkle-shaped pieces of purple and pink clays. You can experiment with this by overlapping larger bits of clay with smaller pieces. Be sure to clean your hands with baby wipes in between using different colours to avoid any smudging. 05 Carefully slide the finished bead off the skewer. This can be quite tricky as the clay likes to stick to it. The best way is to gently grasp around it and twist the skewer until it becomes loose.
To ensure the ends of the bead are neat, carefully cut some clay away with the craft knife. You can chop the ends clean off, but you’ll need to push the skewer back in to recreate the holes at the ends. 07 Set it to a curved shape, using the image as a guide, making sure it’s not too twisted as the cord will need to fit through the middle. Set it aside on a baking tray. 08 For the complementary beads, you can experiment with size, shape and colour, or use the pink and yellow as shown. Roll the clay with your hands to make a sphere or a long tube bead. Squash them down to flatten, or twist new colours into them. Once you’re happy, push the skewer through to make a hole in each of the beads. 09 Add the complementary beads to the baking tray and place in a 06
04
05
06
10
11
13
preheated oven to let them harden. Keep them in there for a maximum of 20 minutes at a temperature of 100°C, or follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Leave to cool. The clay will only be completely hardened once it’s cooled to room temperature. 10 After the clay has baked and cooled, use a very fine sandpaper to dust off any imperfections. Using the image as a guide, thread the beads onto the cord. 11 Tie a basic, slightly loose knot around one end of the cord, and tie again to make a double knot for extra security. Make sure the knot can slide along the cord. 12 Finally, repeat Step 11 at the other end of the cord. This allows you to adjust the length of the necklace by pulling the knots apart or drawing them closer together.
MEET THE MAKER SOPHIE FILOMENA Sophie’s a designermaker living in Bristol. She has a love for experimental design and is currently creating wearable art and freelancing as a graphic designer. Her work is made to empower. www.sophiefilomena. etsy.com
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 83
TAKE THE HASSLE OUT OF YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING AND GIVE A GIFT THAT LASTS ALL YEAR 13 ISSUES FOR £44.99 SAVE 42%
13 ISSUES FOR £44.99 SAVE 42%
13 ISSUES FOR £44.99 SAVE 42%
13 ISSUES FOR £44.99 SAVE 42%
12 ISSUES FOR £29.99 SAVE 44%
12 ISSUES FOR £39.99 SAVE 33%
The perfect Christmas gift from only £29.99 A unique Christmas present they’ll continue to enjoy all year round* Delivered direct to their door Over 30 magazines to choose from – gardening, cooking, crafting, cars, music, wildlife and much more
Remember ordering online is safe and secure, choose from any of these payment options
This ofer closes on the 31st December 2018 and is valid for UK delivery addresses only. The discounts shown are savings calculated as a percentage of the full shop price, excluding Radio Times and Match of the Day which are calculated as a percentage of the Basic Annual Rate. For overseas rates visit www.buysubscriptions.com. All Christmas gift subscriptions will start with the first issue available in January 2019. Should the magazine change in frequency, we will honour the number of issues and not the term of the subscription. †UK calls will cost the same as other standard fixed line numbers (starting 01 or 02) and are included as part of any inclusive or free minutes allowances (if ofered by your phone tarif). Outside of free call packages call charges from mobile phones will cost between 3p and 55p per minute. Lines are open Mon to Fri 8am – 6pm and Sat 9am – 1pm. *Radio Times and Match of the Day are published weekly. Radio Times subscriptions are for 26 issues and Match of the Day subscriptions are for 23 issues. The Basic Annual UK Subscription Rate of Radio Times
SEE OUR FULL RANGE OF MAGAZINES ONLINE
13 ISSUES FOR £39.99 SAVE 38%
13 ISSUES FOR £49.99 SAVE 45%
13 ISSUES FOR £44.99 SAVE 42%
13 ISSUES FOR £44.99 SAVE 42%
13 ISSUES FOR £44.99 SAVE 42%
13 ISSUES FOR £44.99 SAVE 42%
13 ISSUES FOR £44.99 SAVE 42%
13 ISSUES FOR £39.99 SAVE 38%
9 ISSUES FOR £34.99 SAVE 35%
12 ISSUES FOR £29.99 SAVE 40%
26 ISSUES FOR £49.99 SAVE 30%
13 ISSUES FOR £29.99 SAVE 54%
13 ISSUES FOR £34.99 SAVE 43%
13 ISSUES FOR £34.99 SAVE 46%
13 ISSUES FOR £29.99 SAVE 54%
ORDER NOW! Subscribing online is quick and easy Visit
Wrap party PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: SARAH MALONE AND SALLY BUFFTON
Add a little crochet cheer to this year’s gifts – Tuija Heikkinen’s all over it
86 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
HOW TO MAKE CROCHET GIFT TAGS MATERIALS Q Small amounts of cotton 4ply yarn Q Small amounts of metallic 4ply yarn Q 2.5mm (UK 12, US steel 4) crochet hook (ours was by Clover) Q Yarn needle Q Embroidery thread in contrasting colours Q Embroidery needle Q Fabric glue Q Matching felt Q Sequins Q Buttons Q Ric rac TENSION Tension is not important in this design, but use a smaller hook than recommended by the yarn manufacturer so you get a tight finish ABBREVIATIONS (UK) st(s) stitch(es) ch chain ss slip stitch dc double crochet inc increase by working 2
88 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
dc in given st htr half treble tr treble dtr double treble magic ring hold yarn in your hand, wrap working yarn around forefinger twice to create a ring, slip ring off your finger and insert hook to pick up first st, ch1 then work the necessary sts for Round 1 and close the ring tightly by pulling the end FINISHED SIZE Round bauble approx. 7 x 8cm (2¾ x 31/8") Teardrop bauble approx. 5 x 9cm (2 x 35/8") Wide teardrop bauble approx. 8 x 8cm (31/8 x 31/8")
You’re armed with paper and ribbon and you’re about to pop Elf on for the umpteenth time: let the gift wrapping marathon commence. Like most years, there’ll be a moment when you’ve got one knee/elbow/foot holding down the paper while you simultaneously reach for the scissors and remove sticky tape from your hair, only this time it’ll be better – this time there are kitschy crochet tags. Add these mid-century-inspired makes to your giftwrap to add that next-level handmade touch to your presents this year, or hang them on the Christmas tree. Round bauble Round 1 make a magic ring, 6dc into the ring, join to first dc with a ss, pull ring tight [6 sts] Round 2 ch1 (does not count as st throughout), 1inc in each st around, join to first dc with a ss [12 sts] Round 3 ch1, (1dc in next st, 1inc in next st) 6 times, join to first dc with a ss [18 sts] Round 4 ch1, (1dc in each of next 2 sts, 1inc in next st) 6 times, join to first dc with a ss [24 sts] Round 5 ch1, (1dc in each of next 3 sts, 1inc in next st) 6 times, join to first dc with a ss [30 sts] Round 6 ch1, (1dc in each of next 4 sts, 1inc in next st) 6 times, join to first dc with a ss [36 sts] Round 7 ch1, (1dc in each of next 5 sts, 1inc in next st) 6 times, join to first dc with a ss [42 sts]
Round 8 ch1, (1dc in each of next 6 sts, 1inc in next st) 6 times, join to first dc with a ss [48 sts] For hanging loop, ch4, miss 1 st, ss in next st, break yarn, fasten off and sew in ends. Using a length of metallic yarn, thread a loop through the hanger. The bauble can be made bigger by adding extra rounds, ensuring each round increases by 6 sts Teardrop bauble Rounds 1-4 as for Round bauble, break yarn and fasten off Round 5 join new colour to any st with a ss, ch3 (counts as 1dtr), 1dtr in next st, 2tr in next st, 1htr in next st, 1dc in next st, 2dc in next st, 1dc in each of next 3 sts, 2dc in next st, 1tr in each of next 2 sts, (1tr, 1dtr, 1tr ) in next st (you are now at the bottom of the bauble), 1tr in each of next 2 sts, 2dc in next st, 1dc in each of next 3 sts, 2dc in next st, 1dc in next st, 1htr in next st, 2tr in the next st, 1dtr in next st, join to top of starting ch3 with a ss [32 sts] Round 6 ch2 (counts as 1tr), 1tr in next st, 1dc in each of next 6 sts, 2dc in next st, 1dc in each of next 6 sts, 1htr in next st, (1tr, 1dtr, 1tr) in next st, 1htr in next st, 1dc in each of next 6 sts, 2dc in next st, 1dc in each of next 6 sts, (2tr, 2dtr) in last st, join to top of starting ch2 with a ss, break yarn, fasten off For the hanging loop, join metallic yarn to the tr just to the right of the bauble top with a ss, ch2 (counts as
1tr), 2tr in next st, 1tr in next st, pull yarn through final st and with a yarn needle sew to the top of the starting ch2 to form a hanging loop Wide teardrop bauble Rounds 1-3 as for Round bauble, break yarn, fasten off Round 4 join second colour to any st with a ss, ch1, (1dc in each of next 2 sts, 1inc in next st) 6 times, join to first dc with a ss [24 sts] Round 5 ch1, 1dc in each of next 2 sts, (2htr in next st, 1htr in each of next 2 sts) twice, 2htr in next st, 1dc in each of next 2 sts, 2dc in next st (now at bottom of bauble), 1dc in each of next 2 sts, (2htr in next st, 1htr in each of next 2 sts) twice, 2htr in next st, 1dc in each of next 2 sts, 2dc in next st, join to first dc with a ss [32 sts] Round 6 ch2 (counts as 1htr), 1htr in st at base of ch2, 1htr in each of next 2 sts, 2htr in next st, 1tr in each of next 3 sts, 2tr in next st, 1htr in each of next 2 sts, 1dc in next st, 2dc in next st, 1dc in each of next 3 sts, (1htr, 1tr, 1htr) in next st, 1dc in each of next 3 sts, 2dc in next st, 1dc in next st, 1htr in each of next 2 sts, 2tr in next st, 1tr in each of next 3 sts, 2htr in next st, 1htr in each of next 3 sts, 2htr next st, join to top of starting ch2 with a ss [42 sts]
Round 7 ch1, 1dc in st at base of ch and in each of next 4 sts, 2dc in next st, 1htr in each of next 2 sts, 1tr in each of next 2 sts, 2tr in next st, 1tr in next st, 2tr in next st, 1htr in each of next 3 sts, 1dc in each of next 4 sts, (1dc, 1tr, 1dc) in next st, 1dc in each of next 4 sts, 1htr in each of next 3 sts, 2tr in next st, 1tr in next st, 2tr in next st, 1tr in each of next 2 sts, 1htr in each of next 2 sts, 2dc in next st, 1dc in each of next 6 sts, join to 1st dc with a ss, break yarn and fasten off For the hanging loop, join first yarn to the st just to the right of the bauble top with a ss, ch2 (counts as 1tr), 1tr in st at base of ch, 2tr in next st, break yarn and fasten off With metallic yarn, sew a loop from the top of the starting ch2 to the top of the last tr Make a bobble detail using first yarn colour, make a magic ring, ch2 (counts as 1htr), 11htr into the ring, join to top of starting ch2 with a ss, break yarn and fasten off, use end to sew on
MEET THE MAKER TUIJA HEIKKINEN Tuijaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Finnish textile designer living close to the Arctic Circle. She teaches at an art and crafts school alongside focusing on her own printed textiles. She describes her style as yarn illustration. www.instagram.com/ tuijaheikkinen
Embellishment Embroider the baubles with embroidery thread, referring to the images, and using the stitch guide on page 98. Customise with buttons and trimmings, then cut felt shapes to cover the backs. Embellish as desired, then attach with fabric glue. MOLLIEMAKES.COM 89
Advertisement feature
GIFTS FOR LITTLE ONES Toys, nursery décor and keepsake treasures to make this Christmas even more special
01
01
03
02
04
BLOOMETTE SAUVAGE
03
THE CROCHET CRAFT CO.
This delicate floral name hoop is the ideal addition to a little one’s space. The
Peter, Richard and Rodney will make adorable festive gifts for little ones – unique,
collection also features bed canopies, floral letters and pretty wall hangings.
fully CE tested crochet creatures who are made with love. Meet more of their
www.bloomettesauvage.etsy.com
amigurumi friends and shop online at www.thecrochetcraftco.co.uk.
02
ROCKS DESIGN
04
MOI MILI
Holly’s personalised and illustrated prints are inspired by your most precious
Moi Mili are passionate about making creative spaces for play. Their imaginative
moments. Head to the website and search ‘MOLLIEMAKES’ for a free surprise
range of nursery accessories includes beautiful play tents, dream catchers, garlands
print. Say hi on Facebook and Instagram (@rocksdesign) too. www.rocksdesign.co.uk
and canopies made with natural cotton and linen. www.moimili.net
90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: SARAH MALONE & SALLY BUFFTON; SUMPTUOUS SHEEPSKIN RUG FROM COX AND COX, WWW.COXANDCOX.CO.UK
Simple pleasures Get home, get cosy, and get your Anna Alicia slippers on
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 91
01
02
05
06
HOW TO MAKE FAUX SHEEPSKIN SLIPPERS MATERIALS Q 25cm (97/8") light brown faux suede Q 50cm (19¾") cream faux fur Q Pair of non-slip slipper soles (ours were from www.joestoes.co.uk) Q Cream sewing thread Q Thick cream upholstery thread Q Stranded embroidery thread in light green, dark green and peach Q Sewing needle Q Tailor’s chalk
When it’s chilly and grey outside, little comforts at home become even more precious. Case in point: a pair of fluffy slippers to pad around in for a luxurious finish to the end of a long day. Sew a yourself a pair as a winter treat or make them as a Christmas gift for a pal. Did someone say hygge? For a sturdier pair of slippers, try layering up two or three sets of soles together. And, for a cosier feel, back the faux suede pieces with faux fur before you sew them in place. Turn to page 98 for a handy embroidery stitch guide. SIZING The front piece template on page 98 works with a size 5-6 sole. To scale it up or down, draw the front piece on paper a little larger or smaller, cut it out (without adding seam allowance) and pin to the soles, then try on the paper slippers. Adjust the pattern piece as necessary until the fit is right.
92 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
With the faux suede right side (RS) down, place the front piece template on page 98 (or your re-sized version) on top and draw around it with tailor’s chalk. Turn the pattern over and draw around it again, leaving 2cm (¾") in between each shape. Cut out both pieces with a 1cm (3/8") seam allowance. Lay the faux fur out RS down and place the felt soles on top, also RS down. Draw around the soles, then cut out the shapes with a 1cm (3/8") seam allowance. Also cut out two 40 x 8cm (15¾ x 31/8") strips from the faux fur. For larger shoe sizes, make this two 45 x 8cm (17¾ x 31/8") pieces. 02 On the front piece pattern template, measure 4.5cm (17/8") down from the top curved edge, mark at several points along the curve, then join these to form a curved line. Cut along this line, discarding the toe section, and use this curved strip as a new template. Place the template on 01
the wrong side (WS) of the faux fur and draw around it twice, then turn it over and draw around it twice again, leaving at least 2cm (¾") in between each shape. Cut these four pieces out with a 1cm (3/8") seam allowance. 03 Take two of the curved strips, each with the pattern drawn the opposite way up, and pin RS together. Sew along the side and bottom outward curved edges, 1cm (3/8") in, leaving the top edge open. Turn RS out. Repeat with the other pair. Lay out one of the faux suede pieces RS down, and lay one of the faux fur curved strips on top, aligning the raw edges at the bottom and with the open edge at the top. Pin and sew 1cm (3/8") in from the bottom. Repeat with the other faux suede and faux fur pieces, then fold the faux fur pieces over to the RS of the faux suede so they sit on top. Pin in place. 04 Using tailor’s chalk, mark out the embroidery pattern on page 98 in
03
04
07
08
the centre of the RS of each of the faux suede pieces. When placing this, bear in mind you’ll lose 1cm (3/8") around the outer edge when it’s sewn to the sole. Using long straight stitches and three strands of each shade, sew the fan-shaped embroidery, referring to the image as a guide to colour placement. 05 On each of the soles, lay out the matching piece of faux fur so it overlaps the edges evenly all the way around, RS up. Tuck the edges of the faux fur under by 1cm (3/8") and pin all the way around. 06 Take one of the faux suede pieces and line up the front centre with the front centre of one of the soles, overlapping it by 1cm (3/8"). Make sure you have the correct piece for that sole so the inner and outer edges are on the correct sides as marked on the template – the inner edge is a little pointier. Begin tucking the faux suede under the faux fur, removing the pins as you go and replacing them through
all the layers. Do this all the way around the faux suede piece. 07 Use the upholstery thread doubled to blanket stitch all the way around the sole. With sewing thread, add a few stitches to the short edges of the folded over fur strips to hold these in place. Remove any pins. 08 Take the long strips of faux fur cut in Step 1 and fold in half along the length with RS together. Pin and sew 1cm (3/8") in along the long raw edge, then turn RS out. Tuck the end of one tube approximately 3cm (1¼") inside one of the slippers at the side and sew the end to secure. Sew the tube all the way around the outer edge of the back of the slipper – don’t sew all the way through the sole, just join to the faux fur lining so the stitches won’t show. Cut off any excess, leaving 3cm (1¼") to tuck inside, and sew the other end in place. Repeat Steps 6-8 for the second slipper to finish.
MEET THE MAKER ANNA ALICIA Anna’s the designermaker behind ecoethical label A Alicia. She’s based in London with her husband, their toddler, and a multitude of houseplants and is always looking for new avenues to explore in her craft practice. www. aalicia.bigcartel.com
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 93
NEXT MONTH in
100
on sale 29TH NOVEMBER
MAKE A TINSEL PARTY SKIRT EMBROIDER WINTERY WALL ART KNIT A COLOURWORK CUSHION
GIFT AND CONTENTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
DON’t miss our 100th birthday issue kit!
PLUS TAPESTRY POM POM CLUTCH BERBER-STYLE CROCHET BRIGHT PATCHWORK QUILT GIFT WRAPPING IDEAS MACRAMÉ CHRISTMAS WREATH RUFFLE HALF APRON 94 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Brighten things up M A K E YO U R C H R I S T M A S M E R RY AND BRIGHT WITH THIS FUN AND FA B U LO U S B AU B L E C H A N D E L I E R
Find everything you need at Hobbycraft Shop in store or online now at hobbycraft.co.uk
01
02
03
07
08
09
How to make it... You will need: Craft Essentials - Scissors - Glue Gun Hobbycraft Supplies - White Washed Willow Wreath 20cm - Large Fillable Baubles 8cm - Small Fillable Baubles 6cm - 2 White Christmas Berry Stems - Invisible Thread - Assorted Screw Eyes - Winter Woodland Natural and Gold Twine 27m - Assorted Pom Poms - Decorative Gold Bells - Pinecone Decorations
This year, Hobbycraft is inviting us to inject a pop of brilliant colour into our family festivities with this wonderfully fun and bright bauble chandelier â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it will add a festive touch to any home, and is guaranteed to cheer up even the gloomiest of winter days.
All you need to get started is a few pieces of craft essentials and some Hobbycraft supplies. Simply search online or pop into your nearest Hobbycraft store and you'll discover a dazzling array of crafty bits and pieces in all your favourite colours.
Love this and want to make more? Join Hobbycraft's in-store experts for 12 Makes of Christmas, a series of festive craft workshops running each week in the run-up to Christmas. From fillable baubles to wreath making and more, create your very own personalised home decorations and learn some new techniques for all of your Christmas crafting. Visit hobbycraft.co.uk/12makes for more details.
04
05
06
10
11
12
Step 1: Screw six large screw eyes into what will be the top of your wreath (image 1). Try to do these as evenly as possible, then screw three small screw eyes evenly spaced in the bottom of the wreath (image 2).
Step 2: Cut three pieces of string to 30cm. Take one piece of string and thread it through one of the six screw eyes on the top of the wreath, then secure the string to the opposite eye hook. Repeat until all three pieces are used in a H shape (image 3).
Step 3: Cut three pieces of string to 120cm. Fold each piece in half, and thread through the eye hook and back
through the loop attached to the hook. Repeat with the other two pieces, leaving an eye hook between the others (image 4). Bring the string together at the top, and knot while creating a loop to hang it up (image 5). Put to one side.
Step 4: Take one of the white Christmas berry stems and cut off the long stem, then shape the foliage around half of the wreath. Using the hot glue gun, glue the foliage to the wreath (image 6). Repeat with the second stem.
Step 5: To create a filled bauble, open the bauble at the join. Add your different fillings to each bauble
SHOP NOW I VISIT HOBBYCRAFT.CO.UK
(image 7). Join the bauble back together when finished and repeat for all baubles.
Step 6: You'll find it easier to attach each of your decorated baubles when the wreath is hanging. Secure each bauble, one at a time, using different lengths of invisible thread (image 8). It's best to secure larger decorations to the three screw eyes added to the bottom of the wreath (image 9). Add smaller decorations to the string added across the wreath (image 10) and cut off excess thread (image 11). Finally, all you need to do is find the ideal place to show off your colourful creation.
THE HAN N YOU G IN R TO D HOME ISPL AY!
TEMPLATES ALL THE SHAPES FOR THIS ISSUE’S MAKES. UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED, TEMPLATES ARE SHOWN AT 100%. YOU CAN FIND THE FULL-SIZE TEMPLATES READY TO DOWNLOAD FROM WWW.MOLLIEMAKES.COM
YOUR GIFT by Sarah Louise Matthews PAGE 7
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
MATERIALS Q Cutting mat Q Embossing tool Q Tacky glue Q Tapestry needle
Place the paper face down with the template on top. Draw around the template, as well as marking the holes. 02 Using scissors, cut along the outline drawn in Step 1, ignoring the hole marks for now. 03 Place face down onto a cutting mat. Use an embossing tool and ruler to score along each of the fold lines, which are marked on the template with dashed and solid lines. To position these score lines, use the hole marks drawn in Step 1, as well as the points of the outer edge, as a guide. 01
On the template, which shows the back of the piece, dashed lines are valley folds and solid lines are mountain folds. Still working on the back of the paper, fold each scored line to correspond with the template. 05 Flatten the three indicated tabs back, as shown. 06 Apply glue to the three tabs, then fold the other half of the piece over onto the tabs as shown. Align the edges, then apply pressure onto the glued areas. Allow to dry. 07 Pop out into the 3D star shape by pushing from the inside, 04
through the opening, while also pushing from the outside with the other hand. 08 If you’re making hanging decorations, cut a short length of baker’s twine, make a loop and tie a knot with the loose ends. Thread the loop onto a tapestry needle then, from inside the star, pierce through the tip of one of the points, as shown (not the one opposite the opening). Pull the needle and loop until stopped by the knot, then slide the needle off the end. If desired, add a dot of glue to the knot for added security.
Thank you for making this project from Mollie Makes. We have requested specific permission from designers so that you can recreate and sell selected projects from this issue on the following conditions. Just look for this icon. You can individually hand make as many as you wish of our labelled projects, to sell either for yourself, your local event or to raise money for charity. You cannot sell in shops (online or otherwise) and you cannot go into mass production, which means you cannot manufacture in large quantities, especially by machine. Selling photocopies of any part of this magazine, its kits or supplements is prohibited. We don’t mind if you make a copy of the templates for a friend but please do not make any part of the templates or instructions available to others through your website or a third party website, or copy it multiple times without our permission. Please respect one another’s copyright.
98 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
Templates KNITTED MITTENS by Emma Lois Munn PAGE 77
KEY
COLOUR CHART
Yarn A Yarn B Yarn C
7 6 5 4 3 2 1
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
CHRISTMAS JUMPER by Christine Leech PAGE 32
Thank you for making this project from Mollie Makes. We have requested specific permission from designers so that you can recreate and sell selected projects from this issue on the following conditions. Just look for this icon. You can individually hand make as many as you wish of our labelled projects, to sell either for yourself, your local event or to raise money for charity. You cannot sell in shops (online or otherwise) and you cannot go into mass production, which means you cannot manufacture in large quantities, especially by machine. Selling photocopies of any part of this magazine, its kits or supplements is prohibited. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind if you make a copy of the templates for a friend but please do not make any part of the templates or instructions available to others through your website or a third party website, or copy it multiple times without our permission. Please respect one anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s copyright.
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 99
Templates STITCH GUIDE use our handy guide for the embroidery techniques in this issue
01
02
03
04
02
01
02 03
01
01
BLANKET STITCH (SURFACE) This is fun for decorative stitching or appliqué. Try to keep the spacing and stitch height consistent, or change it up to create a pattern. Come up at point 1. Go down at point 2 and come back up at point 3, keeping the needle over the working thread. Pull to create a right angle, then repeat.
02
FRENCH KNOT This is a stitch that everyone should learn, because it’s so useful. The secret is to hold the working thread taut while you pull it through. Come up at point 1, then wrap the thread around the needle twice. Holding the working thread with your non-dominant hand, bring the needle down at point 2 (close to point 1, but not the same hole) and pull slowly until the knot is formed.
SATIN STITCH When you want to fill an area with a smooth finish, this stitch is the ideal choice. It’s best worked in small areas, because if the stitches are too long, they may snag. Come up at point 1, then go down at point 2. Come up at point 3, then go down at point 4. Repeat. Always work the stitches across the area you’re filling, coming up on the opposite side where your needle went down.
STRAIGHT STITCH The simplest of stitches, straight stitch can be grouped together to fill an area, or they can be used alone to add details. Come up at point 1, then go down at point 2. Repeat as required according to the pattern.
02
01
MACRAMÉ KNOT GUIDE use our handy guide for the macraweave CUSHION PAGE 39 01
02
03
04
Lark’s head knot Fold the cord in half along the length. Slip the folded string on top of the object the lark’s head knot will be tied onto. 01 02
100 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
Pull the cord down around the object you’re tying the knot over, without twisting the cords, then pull the other two strands through the loop, as shown. 03
To tighten the lark’s head knot, hold the two cords in one hand and the object you have them tied around in the other. Pull until the knot is fastened at the top. 04
Templates MACRAMÉ KNOT GUIDE use our handy guide for the macraweave CUSHION PAGE 39 01
02
03
Square knot
04
05
Move working cord 4 to the left, passing it under the two middle cords and over working cord 1. Pull on both working cords to tighten the knot, while holding the middle cords steady. 04 The two working cords have now switched places. Move working cord 1 to 03
You’ll need two folded cords, secured with lark’s head knots, creating four cords. The two outer cords are the working cords. 02 Move working cord 1 over cords 2 and 3, towards the right. Pass working cord 1 under working cord 4. 01
02
01
the left, passing it over the middle cords and under working cord 4. 05 Move working cord 4 to the left, under the middle cords and over cord 1. 06 Tighten the square knot by pulling on both the working cords, while holding the two middle cords steady.
03
Cord 1
Guide Cord 1
Guide
04
Cord 1
Guide
05
06
Cord 1
Cord 1 Guide
Double half hitch knot 01 02
06
Pass cord 1 around the guide. Bring cord 1 over and around the guide.
Cord 1
Guide
Bring cord 1 back through the loop that has formed. This makes a half hitch knot. 04 Pull the knot snug and slide it up. 03
Guide
Continue taking cord 1 around the guide again to tie another half hitch knot. 06 Pull the knot snug and slide it up. 05
Thank you for making this project from Mollie Makes. We have requested specific permission from designers so that you can recreate and sell selected projects from this issue on the following conditions. Just look for this icon. You can individually hand make as many as you wish of our labelled projects, to sell either for yourself, your local event or to raise money for charity. You cannot sell in shops (online or otherwise) and you cannot go into mass production, which means you cannot manufacture in large quantities, especially by machine. Selling photocopies of any part of this magazine, its kits or supplements is prohibited. We don’t mind if you make a copy of the templates for a friend but please do not make any part of the templates or instructions available to others through your website or a third party website, or copy it multiple times without our permission. Please respect one another’s copyright.
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 101
Templates SHEEPSKIN SLIPPERS by anna alicia PAGE 91 Photocopy at 200%
FIND FULL SIZE TEMPLATES ON molliemakes.com
CROCHET BLANKET by Rachele Carmona PAGE 61
01
02
Pull Loop Through join (PLT) 01 02
Release the loop from the hook. Insert the hook from front to back
in st/sp indicated, grab the loop, pull the loop through to the front of the work without making any chains
03
(unless directed as for joining adjacent ch3 corners). 03 Complete the stitch as normal.
Thank you for making this project from Mollie Makes. We have requested specific permission from designers so that you can recreate and sell selected projects from this issue on the following conditions. Just look for this icon. You can individually hand make as many as you wish of our labelled projects, to sell either for yourself, your local event or to raise money for charity. You cannot sell in shops (online or otherwise) and you cannot go into mass production, which means you cannot manufacture in large quantities, especially by machine. Selling photocopies of any part of this magazine, its kits or supplements is prohibited. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind if you make a copy of the templates for a friend but please do not make any part of the templates or instructions available to others through your website or a third party website, or copy it multiple times without our permission. Please respect one anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s copyright.
102 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
Templates HEIRLOOM SOFTIES by Anabella Cahwje PAGE 18
BUNNY ARMS
Cut FOUR
MOUSE EARS
CUT four
LION AND MOUSE BODY
Cut two
LION EARS
CUT four
BUNNY BODY
Cut two LION AND MOUSE LEGS
Cut two
MOUSE CROWN
CUT ONE
Thank you for making this project from Mollie Makes. We have requested specific permission from designers so that you can recreate and sell selected projects from this issue on the following conditions. Just look for this icon. You can individually hand make as many as you wish of our labelled projects, to sell either for yourself, your local event or to raise money for charity. You cannot sell in shops (online or otherwise) and you cannot go into mass production, which means you cannot manufacture in large quantities, especially by machine. Selling photocopies of any part of this magazine, its kits or supplements is prohibited. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind if you make a copy of the templates for a friend but please do not make any part of the templates or instructions available to others through your website or a third party website, or copy it multiple times without our permission. Please respect one anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s copyright.
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 103
Templates HEIRLOOM SOFTIES by Anabella Cahwje
CUT FOUR
BUNNY GARMENT
LION AND MOUSE SHIRT
CUT ONE
CUT FOUR
BUNNY COLLAR
LION AND MOUSE HANDS
CUT ONE
LION AND MOUSE ARMS
CAPE COLLAR
PAGE 18
CUT TWO
CUT TWO
BUNNY SKIRT
Cut Three
BUNNY EARS
CUT Four
Mollie Makes (ISSN 20460228) (USPS 20517) Christmas 18 is published 14 times a year (monthly, with a Spring issue in March and a Christmas issue in November) by Immediate Media Company Bristol Ltd., Tower House, Fairfax St. Bristol BS1 3BN, United Kingdom. Distributed in the U.S. by NPS Media Group, 2 Corporate Dr., Suite 945, Shelton, CT 06484. Periodical Postage paid at Shelton, CT and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address change to Mollie Makes, 3330 Pacific Ave., Suite 500, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. Thank you for making this project from Mollie Makes. We have requested specific permission from designers so that you can recreate and sell selected projects from this issue on the following conditions. Just look for this icon. You can individually hand make as many as you wish of our labelled projects, to sell either for yourself, your local event or to raise money for charity. You cannot sell in shops (online or otherwise) and you cannot go into mass production, which means you cannot manufacture in large quantities, especially by machine. Selling photocopies of any part of this magazine, its kits or supplements is prohibited. We don’t mind if you make a copy of the templates for a friend but please do not make any part of the templates or instructions available to others through your website or a third party website, or copy it multiple times without our permission. Please respect one another’s copyright.
104 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
HEIRLOOM SOFTIES by Anabella Cahwje
EDITORIAL Editor Yvette Streeter Art Editor Sarah Malone Deputy Art Editor Sally Bufton Commissioning Editor Lindsey Newns Production Editor Becca Parker Picture Editor Emma Georgiou Digital Content Editor Phoebe Burt
PAGE 18
molliemakes@immediate.co.uk
ADVERTISING Call: 0117 300 8206 Senior Advertising Manager Penny Stokes Client Partnership Manager Beckie Pring Senior Sales Executive Emily Williams
MARKETING & CIRCULATION CAPE
Head of Newstrade Marketing Martin Hoskins Newstrade Marketing Manager Janine Smith Subscriptions Director Jacky Perales-Morris Direct Marketing Manager Penny Clapp
CUT ONE
PRODUCTION Production Director Sarah Powell Production Managers Louisa Molter/Rose Griffiths Production Coordinator Lily Owens-Crossman
LICENSING Director of International Licensing and Syndication Tim Hudson tim.hudson@immediate.co.uk
BUYING TEAM Paul Torre, Karen Flannigan, Jennifer Morgan
MANAGEMENT Managing Director, Lifestyle Catherine Potter Assistant Publisher, Lifestyle Catherine Dean Group Senior Editor Julie Taylor Chief Executive Officer Tom Bureau Group Managing Director Andy Marshall
SUBSCRIPTIONS For new orders and back issues sales call 03330 162 148 or visit www. buysubscriptions.com/craft. For enquiries relating to your subscription email molliemakes@buysubscriptions.com or call +44 (0) 1604 973 757.
LION HAT 1
CUT ONE WAND STAR
LION HAT TOP
CUT ONE
CUT ONE LION HAT 2
CUT ONE
COPYRIGHT GUIDELINES FOR PROJECTS We have requested permission from designers so you can make and sell selected projects on the following conditions. Just look for this icon. Please credit the designer where appropriate and when requested. Mollie Makes encourages creativity and as well as making for gifts and for yourself, we want to help you make small batches of handmade items to sell. You can individually handmake as many as you wish of our labelled projects, to sell for yourself, a local event or to raise money for charity. You cannot sell in shops (online or otherwise) or go into mass production, so you cannot manufacture in large quantities, especially by machine. Selling photocopies of any part of this magazine or its kit is prohibited. Please respect one another’s copyright.
Mollie Makes is published by:
Immediate Media Company Limited, 2nd Floor, Tower House, Fairfax Street, Bristol, BS1 3BN. Tel: 0117 927 9009 We abide by IPSO’s rules and regulations. To give feedback about our magazines, please visit immediate.co.uk, email editorialcomplaints@immediate.co.uk or write to Yvette Streeter or Katherine Conlon, Immediate Media Co., Vineyard House, 44 Brook Green, London W6 7BT.
Thank you for making this project from Mollie Makes. We have requested specific permission from designers so that you can recreate and sell selected projects from this issue on the following conditions. Just look for this icon. You can individually hand make as many as you wish of our labelled projects, to sell either for yourself, your local event or to raise money for charity. You cannot sell in shops (online or otherwise) and you cannot go into mass production, which means you cannot manufacture in large quantities, especially by machine. Selling photocopies of any part of this magazine, its kits or supplements is prohibited. We don’t mind if you make a copy of the templates for a friend but please do not make any part of the templates or instructions available to others through your website or a third party website, or copy it multiple times without our permission. Please respect one another’s copyright.
Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited (company number 05715415) is registered in England and Wales. The registered ofice of Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited is at Vineyard House, 44 Brook Green, London W6 7BT. All information contained in this magazine is for information only and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited cannot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information. Readers are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to the price of products/services referred to in this magazine. If you submit unsolicited material to us, you automatically grant Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited a licence to publish your submission in whole or in part in all editions of the magazine, including licensed editions worldwide and in any physical or digital format throughout the world. Any material you submit is sent at your risk. Although every care is taken, neither Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited nor its employees agents or subcontractors shall be liable for loss or damage.
MOLLIEMAKES.COM 105
TEA AND A CHAT “I’m obsessed with emerging interior trends.”
STEPH WALLACE FROM MOSTLY MINIATURE ON DREAMING SMALL
T
THIS MONTH I’M LOVING... Dreaming of: Campfires and swimming in the ocean. Watching: Crossfire Hurricane, the Rolling Stones documentary. Listening to: How I Built This, the NPR podcast about empirebuilders and game changers.
106 MOLLIEMAKES.COM
here’s something about scaling down the ordinary that makes grown women (and the occasional man) go gaga. And I’m no exception – several years into making contemporary doll’s house furniture and I still get lost in the wonder of the tiny worlds I create. It’s as close as I’m ever gonna get to the magic of childhood again and that’s a special feeling. Ironically, my three-year-old daughter couldn’t give a monkey’s about the things I make – she’s more interested in ‘helping’ me glue and cut and drill all the things… She’s definitely her mother’s daughter! I do have some favourite pieces though – it’s all about the details for me. My new spring collection (I’m in Australia!) includes tiny quilted sleeping bags in linen and retro florals. Seriously, I could eat those babies up they’re so yummy. Speaking of retro, I’m obsessed with emerging interior trends, so my top pick for the tail end of 2018 has got to be 1970s-inspired textures and colours. Much like my childhood home, the design world is filled with velveteen textures, dark timbers, retro fonts, wicker furniture, rusty oranges and apricots with a liberal sprinkling of pampas grass. It’s a look I loved to hate circa 1986, but now it’s my jam. I can’t wait to translate these trends into my tiny world and I’m fantasising about making a mini version of my vintage caravan to match. Visit www.mostlyminiature.com to find Steph’s small but perfectly formed modern doll’s house furniture and accessories. She’s also on Instagram as @mostlyminiature where she shares interior design inspiration and more of her teeny makes.