Craftie

craftieOUR

Issue One • October 2012

quirky and handmade

make your own

comic book shoes

FIRST ISSUE

Support the oxfordshire craft scene the old fire station

Interview with designer

Melanie Roseveare upcycler of vintage ceramics and founder of Melody Rose designs

Beginners sewing project

Free

pattern included

Front Stuff

Table of Contents

issue one

Regular Stuff

American crocheter Mary Beth Luzitano gives us an exclusive look at her crocheted jewellery and a bit of advice for beginners.

Front Stuff Editor’s note page 7 Find out about the making of this month’s issue from the best source in town: our editor!

Interview with Emma Mendes da Costa pages 17-18

Haberdashery of the Month pages 12-13

Craftie Loves pages 8-9 Some of the beautiful handmade goodies we’ve fallen in love with.

Online Shop Spotlight pages 14-15

Every month we visit a top notch haberdashery and report back on our favourite finds.

This time we visited Oxford’s Darn It & Stitch for a chat and look around.

The Bookshelf pages 10-11 Reviews of books we’ve read and would (or would not) recommend.

Emma has combined her love of cross stitch with video games to create unique and quirky gifts.

Tutorial: Sew an Owl Toy pages 20-21 Swindon-based sewing fan Emily Steel gives us a step-bystep guide to sewing yWour own adorable owl toys. The perfect project for beginners.

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Front Stuff

Table of Contents Interview with Melanie Roseveare pages 22-24 Melanie Roseveare upcycles vintage chinaware, adding unexpected designs to create Melody Rose, a unique and modern interpretation of classic ceramics.

COVER STORY

Interview with Bridgeen Gillespie pages 30-33 We sat down for a chat with Bridgeen, a blogger, illustrator, and first class embroiderer.

Shop at the Old Fire Station pages 34-37

A trip to this handmade-craftfriendly gallery and café is a must for anyone planning a day trip to Oxford.

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Reviews: Blogs we’re reading page 40 Craftie’s Final Say page 46

Tutorial: Make a Pair of Killer Comic Book Shoes pages 28-29 Get Inspired! Crafters with Purpose pages 25-26 One woman’s trip to her local craft store led her to start her own part-time business.

We show you how to recycle those old comic books and shoes to make a one-of-a-kind pair of heels that you can actually wear!

Extra Goodies Patterns to accompany Emily’s Owl Toy page 38 Events & News page 41 Directory pages 42-43

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editor’s note To my lovely Craftie readers,

When I first proposed the idea for my major project, I was pretty confident that I was onto something. Craftie, which is ultimately the result of that proposal, has been a labour of love the entire way through.

Upon beginning this project I would never have never expected that I’d discover so many people willing to help.

The magazine you see today is the culmination of months of work. Many of the articles have been written by friends-- I never knew I had so many interested in crafts-- and friends of friends, for whom I am eternally grateful.

I’m even more grateful for the gracious Etsy sellers, bloggers and other contributors who have never met me, but have been willing to provide me with photos and articles. Thank you all so much; you’ll never know how much you saved me, and you’ve certainly made Craftie a better magazine for it.

I hope all of you, my readers, enjoy the contents of the magazine. Thank you for your support.

Many thanks,

about the editor My name is Kelsey, and I’m the editor (as well as the designer and sometimes the writer) of this magazine. I love scrapbooking and design.

I also have a love of film and television (which got me a BA in English and Media Studies) and am currently working towards an MA Publishing.

When I’m not working on the magazine, I’m working other places. And when I’m not doing any of that, I spend time trying new places and exploring the fair city of Oxford.

Front Stuff Contributors this Issue STAFF ALYSA THOMAS Staff Book Reviewer Articles this issue: Review of World of Geekcraft

EMILY STEEL Staff Writer Articles this issue: Tutorial: Sew an Owl Toy JADE WARDEN Staff Reviewer Articles this issue: Blog review of One Sheepish Girl SEAN SIMMS Staff Writer Articles this issue: Get Inspired! Crafters with Purpose

FREELANCE MARY BETH LUZITANO Freelance Contributor Articles this issue: Online Shop Spotlight IRONSPY Freelance Contributor Articles this issue: Tutorial: Make a pair of killer comic book shoes

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Issue One

craftie loves

Classy Jack o’ Lanterns

These black stoneware tea light candle holders from RossLab are the perfect replacements for those messy Jack o’Lanterns. £12.31; RossLab.etsy.com

Braaaains!

Get some of these spooky Halloween brain soaps from AubreyEApothecary to add a bit of gore to your decor. £3.86; AubreyEApothecary.etsy.com

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Rapunzel! Rapunzel!

This ‘Make Believe’ embroidered hoop art by merriweathercouncil is the perfect addition to any bedroom, and the colours make it the perfect decoration for autumn. £29.16; merriweathercouncil.etsy.com

Conquer the mountain

Mountain landscape whiskey flasks

by LiquidCourage are perfect for adding some warmth to your toes even as the weather takes a turn for the worse. £25; LiquidCourage.etsy.com

Your own little bit of seaside

Rustic driftwood journals from StairLodgeSupplies are made with found driftwood- enough to remind us of those warm summer days at the seaside. £12.96; StairLodgeSupples.etsy.com

Hi-hoe! Hi-hoe!

We love these wooden iPhone cases by bRainbow. They’re etched with pictures of our favourite gardening tools and a nice change from all that silicone. £15; bRainbowshop.etsy.com

Front Stuff These are the things we have fallen in love with this month.

october

A fantastic little fox

Looking for a cute birthday gift this month? This woollen fox toy

by EvesLittleEarthlings is a pretty good option. Or you could just keep it to yourself.

Keep the Aztec look alive

£16.85; EvesLittleEarthlings.etsy.com

Dark teal and purple are really ‘in’ at the moment, so why not try this Aztec Print Dress by Jennifer Lilly on for size!

Some smashing coasters

Tiny tome of a necklace

£8.50; 27elements.etsy.com

£29.16; PaperMemoirs.etsy.com

Keep those villainous drink stains away with some Hulk Upcycled Comic Drink Coasters from 27elements.

£25; www.jenniferlillystore.com

You know how much we love books here at Craftie, and this tiny book necklace pendant from PaperMemoirs is no exception!

Funky wrist warmers

We can’t help but be drawn to these chunky and funky wrist warmers in mustard yellow, which allow us to continue reading while keeping warm. £17.71; LumiStyle.etsy.com

Warm up for winter

With artic winds right around the corner, wrap up warm with this hand knitted hat by Ebruk. £22.68; Ebruk.etsy.com

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the bookshelf what we read and recommend Indie Craft

by Jo Waterhouse

This is a must-read for anyone curious about the origins of the indie craft movement. The book is written by Jo Waterhouse, a passionate crafter with experience in knitting, crochet and embroidery.

It showcases some of the most talented artists and makers in the business today, including a number of our favourite UK crafters like Angela Chick and Phil Davison (founder of Urban Cross Stitch).

The book also has a lot of artistmakers we’d never heard of before, but now can’t imagine a world without.

There’s plenty of inspiration to go around, making this a great addition to any craft bookshelf.

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Published by Laurence King Publishing £12.95; ISBN 9781856696968

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World of Geekcraft

by Susan Beal and Jay B. Sauceda

My kind of craft books are the ones with easy to follow stepby-step instructions with a bit of personality to go with it. I like to hear how the author found the project, whether they had any issues with step number three, and whether or not they think you could do it as a last minute present. World of Geekcraft has just what I like, and then some. It is funny, quirky, easy to read and – possibly most important – easy to understand.

For anyone with a love of video games, sci fi, graphic novels or technology, this book is for you.

Even if you don’t know your jump ring from your crimp bead there’ll be something here you can follow, or at least take inspiration from and make something yourself.

From the Buffy Fuse-Bead Portrait (a picture of our favourite vampire slayer made out of those plastic things you iron together) to the Secret Message Quilt (a duvet cover with colour coordinated morse code messages), there is something on every wavelength.

There are useful items made more funky (The Day the Earth Stood Still Toolbox), projects

Review by Alysa Thomas

that could come in handy one day (Pow! Zap! Magnets), and completely useless but utterly excellent things (Star Wars Terrariums). To make it easier to follow they are all organised in categories from the simplest Not a Jedi Yet to the more advanced Warp Speed.

So before you even think about getting into your DeLorean and shooting off to 2015, get to your nearest bookshop and buy this; it will almost-literally “take your geeky obsession to the next dimension”.

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Published by Chronicle Books £12.99; ISBN 9780811874618

Reviews ReadyMade: How to Make [Almost] Everything: A Do-It-Yourself Primer

by Shoshana Berger and Grace Hawthorne

Best In Show: 25 More Dogs to Knit

by Sally Muir, Joanna Osborne

Can’t attend the Knit Your Own Dog event at the V&A this month (see page 41 for details)? Not a problem! The sequel to the Best in Show: Knit your Own Dog has finally arrived . . . meet Best in Show: 25 More Dogs to Knit. Now, we at Craftie love all things quirky, so if you’re up for making some small decorative knitted dogs this month this is probably the book for you.

I don’t know what I would do with a knitted version of my own dog (a Shetland Sheepdog), but even I can’t help but smile looking at these tiny renditions of golden retrievers, dachshunds, and bichon frises.

However adorable the book is, it should be noted that there are some mistakes. The authors, Muir and Osborne, are well aware and have listed some of the mistakes on their website’s blog (http://www.muirandosborne.co.uk/blog) so you can make some amendments as you see fit.

Overall, this is a fun book, and definitely a better alternative to the much more grim Knitting with Dog Hair.

Readymade is not so much a book as a DIY bible. This book has such a wide range of activities, all involving re-using or re-purposing items to make something completely new.

It’s not so much about buying new supplies to make something; it’s more about making the most of what you already have access too. This is a great book for everyone, especially those who are really handy around the house, though some things you wouldn’t necessarily want anyone to SEE around your house.

Published by Thames & Hudson £14.95; ISBN 9780500513385

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Published by Collins & Brown £12.99; ISBN 9780811874618

Photograph by Madeline Tosh

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Darn It & Stitch haberdashery of the month

D

arn it & Stitch is unique haberdashery in the heart of Oxford’s city centre. Located just off Blue Boar Street and St. Aldate’s it is a small crafting haven from the bustling and often touristfilled streets of the centre.

Darn it & Stitch has been open for just over two years and has a variety of sewing supplies to suit everyone’s needs. The founder, Joanna ‘Jo’ Watkins, has been quite busy over the past two years. Since opening the shop, she has since

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launched a series of workshops, called Pin Works. Pin Works offers classes for all skill levels and even has the occasional class from famous crafters such as Mr X Stitch.

Inside the shop, which is cosy to say the least, you’ll find all sorts of knick knacks and sewing supplies. Every corner has something new tucked away, from beautiful ribbons and colourful fabrics to an entire cupboard full of sewing patterns. Under

Top Finds

Regular Features Pin Works Workshops Make friends with your sewing machine

6 October, 1-5pm £49 per person Bring your sewing machine along and learn how to use it.

Please print the manual and bring all machine parts to the class.

Beginners Crochet

13 October, 1-5pm £65 per person Get happy with your hook and learn how to crochet. Beginners only.

Quilting - Paper Foundation technique

20 October £55 per person The Paper Foundation technique opens up a whole new enjoyable way of creating amazing quilt blocks with matching seam lines and sharp points, all without having to cut templates first.

Beginners Knitting

27 October, 1-5pm £65 per person Learn how to cast on, knit purl and cast off. Beginners only.

Pin Works also offer evening classes and sewing machines for hire.

For all current and future Pin Works workshops visit www.pinworks.co.uk.

the counter there are also some pretty interesting vintage sewing tools and supplies, which gives the relatively young shop a bit of history.

Jo has kept pretty busy this month, arranging new Pin Works workshops and self-publishing ‘Darn, Knit & Stitch Vol. 1’, a small magazine that you can buy in-store. She also arranged a Stitchbombing event in Oxford to celebrate Darn it & Stitch’s 2nd birthday.

Cyclists around Oxford might have noticed cosy knitted or crocheted seat covers appearing on their bicycles.

Jo and Darn it & Stitch have created a neat little crafting community in

Oxford. Regulars often meet at a local pub to take place in ‘Darn, Knit & Stitch’ events and keep in touch through the shop’s Facebook page. www.darnitandstitch.com

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ETSY SHOP

CutelyMade

out crochet, Mary Beth Luzitano talks ab ness: CutelyMade si bu sy Et r he d an ry le el w je

W

hen I was six years old, my grandmother taught me how to crochet. After twenty-two years of perfecting the art of free form crocheting, I realised with a tiny lace crochet hook and embroidery thread, I could make pretty little flowers to put on things . . . like jewellery!

I opened my CutelyMade jewellery shop online during Spring 2011 and found great success and support. From there I found local craft fairs and ran with the big dogs . . . lots and lots of old ladies! Besides crocheting, I have studied other art forms such as painting, sculpting, and drawing. I hope to find a way to work everything together to make more than just jewellery one day.

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Written by Mary Beth Luzitano Photographs by Mary Beth Luzitano and Madeline Tosh

This page Left: Heather bracelet; glass pearl beads and DMC embroidery thread.

Bottom-right: Jackie crocheted earrings; coloured embroidery thread.

Opposite Page Top-left: Stephie necklace; glass pearl beads and sea green crocheted sea shell.

Bottom-left: Becca vintage necklace; glass pearl beads, precious metal effects embroidery thread.

Right: Priscilla watch; gold cord, gold ribbon and painted flower beads.

Regular Features

great advice for beginners

My advice to any new crafters is to find something easy to do. Trying to make the most complicated piece of art at the beginning will leave you frustrated. Starting small and working your way up will give you the confidence and the collection to move forward.

To see more of or purchase some of Mary Beth’s croched jewellery visit www.cutelymade.com.

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urbanoutfitters.co.uk

Interview with

RegularInterviews Features

Emma Mendes da Costa When did you first start stitching and why?

Meet Emma Mendes da Costa, a self-described 28-year-old clichéd product of the ‘80s. She was a freelance journalist for eight years, but now is training as a sign language interpreter. She lives in Brighton with her two closest friends and has a cat named Yuki and two goldfish: Killer and Bob. Photographs by Emma Mendes da Costa

Emma: When I was little, maybe at the age of seven or eight. I was a fat kid and didn’t have many friends.

What sort of things did you stitch at first?

Cutesy stuff, like Forever Friends kits and the designs in cross stitch magazines. My mother thought it was a great idea as it meant I always had gifts for relatives, but I remember getting bored of it pretty quickly.

Do you make your own patterns, or where do you find them?

I use Google Images to search for likely projects, and adapt what I find there. The awesome thing about 8-bit is a lot of it can simply be copied, pixel-perfect, from the original games. There are a lot of other crafts out there that can be converted to cross stitch patterns too: tapestry, knitting and crochet patterns, even Hama bead work.

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Why did you decide to start stitching designs related to video games, television shows, etc?

A few weeks ago my housemate Nicola was ogling Nyan Cat scarves she’d seen posted on Twitter. I boasted that I could cross stitch Nyan Cat easily . . . me and my big mouth! Still, I bought some plastic canvas - I already had embroidery threads in my sewing kit - and decided to give it a go. I tested my old skills out first by stitching a couple of Space Invaders (photos to right), as they only took about an hour each. I found it really therapeutic, and ended up making six Space Invaders hair clips before I even got started on Nyan Cat.

What’s your favourite creation so far?

I think the Pac-Man magnet (see page 17), as I was really pleased with how the black background came out stitched on clear plastic. The whole design is backed with a second piece of plastic to protect the stitches, and has two long strips of adhesive magnet running along its length. It’s pretty solid so it should be quite hard-wearing.

Do you sell them or give the away as gifts?

They’re all gifts. I hadn’t even thought about selling them! Come to think of it, I haven’t even made anything for myself yet.

Are there any tips you’d like to share for beginners?

Start small and bold - like with the Space Invaders - as you’ll get striking results really quickly. Also, don’t let your cat get into your sewing box. No good can come of it.

What are you planning on creating next?

Today I’m starting an Autobots logo for a friend’s birthday, but shhhh, because it’s a secret! My current list of possible projects also includes Totoro, Beebop and Rocksteady from TMNT, and the 8-bit characters from the opening sequence of The IT Crowd.

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Issue One

how to:

sew an owl toy Written and photographed

by Emily Steel

Skill Level: Beginner

1 3 2 4

Tools you’ll need: • Sewing machine • Needle (for hand sewing) • Pencil • Pins • Scissors

Supplies you’ll need: • Owl pattern (see page 38) • Card for template • Fabric • Felt • 2 buttons • Colour coordinating thread • Stuffing

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Emily suggests

Instead of buying stuffing, try using the inside of an old cushion.

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U

sing the card, I sketched myself a template of the shape I wanted my owl to be when finished. Using this shape, I also drew a shape for the stomach patch and for the face, as well as the beak. I’ve done the first step for you; the pattern I used is on page 38.

I then chose coordinating coloured fabrics and felt (1). I like having a nice, patterned fabric for the main body, and matching it with the felt for the stomach, face and beak. Felt doesn’t fray, so no hemming is needed. I also happened to have a variety of colours to choose from and was able to match my colour scheme perfectly.

Once I had chosen my fabrics, I could then start using the templates to create my owl shapes. I started with the main body shapes, so I laid out my patterned fabric and drew around the body shape twice, once for the front and once for the back of my owl body (2).

Then, making sure I left a 1cm hem allowance all around my pencil line, I cut out the two body shapes.

Tutorials For the stomach, face, and beak pieces I used the corresponding templates on the felt. You don’t need to leave a seam allowance as they are going to be sewn directly onto the front body piece of fabric.

Once you have all of the fabric pieces ready, you can pin them into place. The first piece I attached was the beak onto the face piece. I pinned the beak into position and carefully sewed it close to the edge with a straight stitch to make it look as neat as possible (3).

I placed the face piece into the desired position onto the front body piece and again, using a straight stitch as close to the edge as possible, neatly attached it (4).

The last thing to add to the face is the button eyes. I spent a long time choosing the right size and colour to match my colour scheme and then hand sewed them straight onto the front piece. Next, I stitched on the stomach piece, the same as the face and the beak.

The front of the owl is now complete!

Next we have to place the right sides of the two pieces of body fabric together, so the freshly sewn face is on the inside, and pin the pieces in place.

Using a straight stitch on the sewing machine, I sewed all around the 1cm hemline, leaving a 4cm gap on the bottom of the owl to add stuffing.

Before turning it out, I made small snips all around the hem from the outer edge of the fabric with scissors to close to the stitch line. This ensures the shape will be competely filled out when turned the right way.

The next step was to fill the owl with stuffing (5).

Make sure that it is pushed right into the small gaps of the ears.

The final thing to do now that the owl is fully stuffed is to pin together the opening at the bottom.

Then hand sew the gap with lots of small stitches to ensure that no hole is left and that the final product is as neat as possible!

Now, all that’s left to do is plump your little owl into shape and find him a nice home!

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Interview with

Melanie Roseveare

Melanie Roseveare is a Canadian-born, London-based designer and the founder of Melody Rose designs. Melanie upcycles vintage china sets, adding unusual and non-traditional imagery to the otherwise traditional collections.

Photographs by Melody Rose designs.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

Melanie: I’m originally from Canada and I now live and work in North West London. I originally wanted to be a painter. I love working with ceramics and enjoy making pieces but I fell in love with refiring on vintage.

I like to treat the surface as a canvas for my ideas.

Where did you get the idea to upcycle traditional china with non-traditional designs?

This idea developed over a period of time, but it started with a visit to the Turner Prize show at the Tate Britain in 2004, the year Grayson Perry won. I was so taken with his approach and loved the way that he used a series of techniques on his beautifully made pots, and in particular the digitally produced ceramic transfers that he used. I decided I would learn everything I could about using this technique myself.

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Skull Teacup and Saucer from the Rock and Roll Collection

According to your website, you have a love of eco-friendly design. Is this something that has inspired or influenced your work on Melody Rose?

Yes, definitely. A lot of the furniture and decoration in my house, both functional and non-functional, are upcycled. It’s something I’ve been interested in for many years and it was a key element in developing

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Issue One

Melody Rose. I love the idea of re-using something, particularly of wonderful quality, that would have previously been overlooked.

Can you tell us a little more about your process?

I use an old technique of ceramic transfers but I create them in a modern way, using new technology, and make the transfers digitally.

Where do you find inspiration for each collection?

I’m inspired by things in my everyday life. My ideas for my collections have developed over a few years by(sic) I have added them and they’ve grown organically. For instance, the Modern SurRealist collection was inspired by my early love of surrealist artists when I was growing up in Canada.

Skull plate from Rock and Roll Collection and Bird mug from Urban Nature collection.

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What does your workspace look like?

I have my studio at my home and I’m very lucky to have a lot of space for my work. I have a studio which is packed with vintage china but also has plenty of room for creating, thinking and making. I like to surround myself with lots of mad things I’ve collected for inspiration. I also have a kiln room which not only has my kilns but plenty of space for stacking work to be fired.

Have you any plans for new collections or projects?

I would love to design a line of wallpaper.

What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not making beautiful china sets?

Anything to do with music, friends and food makes me very happy!

Finger pointing tea cup and side plate from Modern SurRealist Collection.

Get inspired!

Regular Regular Features Features

e s o p r u p h t i w s r e craft

Written and photographed

by Sean Simms

Margaret Jane Simms runs her own business, hosts parties and supports a local hospice all in the name of W.

T

here’s a lot of satisfaction to be found in creating your own individualised item to keep as a trinket, or offer as a thoughtful present to a friend or loved one. For many of us, the appeal of crafting often lies with the challenge of making something individual, practical and that ultimately serves a purpose. More often than not, the sheer relaxation that comes with crafting is the appeal, not to mention the chance to forget the mundane side of life and get lost in your own creativity.

It’s true that crafts can be simply a hobby, practiced in peace and quiet early on a Sunday afternoon.

However, for those of us who have the dedication to take it to the next step, our favourite hobbies have the chance to grow into something more than a pastime, often expanding into small businesses and sometimes creating a bit of profit.

Case-in-point is Margaret Jane Simms, or Maggie as she prefers to be known. Maggie started out with a few simple beads she noticed in the sale at a local store. A creative and opportunistic thought struck her, ‘I’m sure I can make something pretty out of these’.

Several hours later, after a lot of fiddling around, Maggie had made her first bracelet and a new passion for jewellery making had taken over.

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three years on from that day in the shop Maggie runs her own parttime business, EM Jewells

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Friends and family took notice of Maggie’s creations and soon requests were flying in from all angles. Everybody wanted something, a necklace for an upcoming ball, a bracelet for a friend’s party or, on one occasion, matching sets of earrings for all the bridesmaids at a local wedding. As the demand grew, Maggie was so sought after that she was working round the clock to fill orders.

She insists on charging only slight revenue on what the materials cost; she gets her satisfaction from watching the pleasure that her work gives people.

After losing her close lifelong friend Vanessa, a big fan of Maggie’s jewellery, Maggie now often donates some of her profits to a local hospice, where her friend was made to feel very comfortable as she lost her battle with cancer.

Now, three years on from that day in the shop, Maggie runs her own part-time business, EM Jewells, named after her niece, Elsa-Margaret. Those first few beads have turned into a whole host of finely crafted, custom pieces, each with the signature mark of perfection provided by EM Jewells. She’s since expanded her business into hosting jewellery-selling parties. Like a doctor on a house call, Maggie will bring along her creations, set up in a venue of your choice, and offer lucky partygoers the chance to snap up a piece of extremely high calibre craft accompanied by yummy white wine spritzers and nibbles.

Anyone can take inspiration from Maggie and what she has achieved. It’s a simple matter of not being afraid of getting in touch with your creative side.

Whatever you’re into making, it’s time to get creative and get crafting!

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!!!

Tutorials

how to:

r e l l i k e m o s make s e o h s k o o b c i com

Written and photographed by ironspy

Skill Level: Beginner Tools you’ll need: • Scissors or a craft knife

1 3 24

Supplies you’ll need: • Mod Podge • Vinyl Shoes • Comics

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ironspy suggests

Use thinner strip on the curves of the shoes to avoid bumps and bubbles.

You can use Mod Podge as the glue AND the varnish to go on after. This should seal them, but I wouldn’t recommend wearing them in the rain (just in case)!

C

ut up a few comics into jagged, odd pieces (1). Use Mod Podge and a paint brush to stick the pieces to the shoes.

Tackle the heels and edges first, keeping the lines nice and straight*, then fill in the gaps with bigger feature pieces (2, 3). You can try a theme if you like (Avengers heels, anyone?) but I just went for a generic comic theme for this pair.

Save some fine cut feature words, speech bubbles and/or characters to really stand out as a final touch. Patience and a steady hand are key here!

You can use a craft knife but I used scissors.

Fill in the platform or don’t, leave the heel blank or don’t. You are the master of your own destiny. But remember, with great power . . .

When completely covered (4), coat in matte or gloss Mod Podge and leave to dry overnight. Coat once more and leave for a day.

Wear. Be fabulous. SUCCEED.

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Issue One

Interview with

Bridgeen gillespie

Bridgeen Gillespie is a freelance writer and illustrator with a passion for creating fabric and embroidery designs.

by Photographs spie Bridgeen Gille

its edgy alternative subject matter like tattoo designs, snarky quotes, and pin-up girls!) by lending me a few great books and I was hooked.

But rather than work from their patterns, I wanted to make my own. With my background in small press comics my illustrations have always featured strong line work, and embroidery really feels like a natural extension of that.

Where do you find inspiration?

This month we’ve interviewed freelance writer and illustrator Bridgeen Gillespie, who currently runs the blog CherryandCinnamon. Her blog is a great mixture of embroidery patterns, designs and illustrations.

I was particularly drawn to her embroidery work, which features a number of famous film and television characters.

How did you get started in embroidery?

Bridgeen: Primarily I think of myself as an illustrator and I never considered textiles as a medium until recently. A crafty friend passed on her enthusiasm for the current embroidery revival (with

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I find inspiration in all the things I’m geeky about.

I love classic science fiction, horror movies, and cult TV shows from the 1990s. I love archetypal characters from films, kids books, and comic art. Song lyrics and musicians also inspire me, as do digital illustrators and designers on T-Shirt sites, and painters from the Low Brow art movement. I also adored Nude Magazine; I’m so sad it’s gone.

Do you have any other artists/crafters you admire?

There are so many artists and crafters I’m in awe of, but in the world of embroidery I admire Jenny Hart and Lucky Jackson. I love the designs that Niamh at Urban Threads creates. I also follow sites like FeelingStitchy.com ,MrXStitch.com and Pikaland.com which are great for inspiration.

Interviews

Top-left: Audrey Horne Centre-left: Rabbit Heart detail Top-right: Amelie detail Opposite: Bat Girl

What is your favourite recently-created piece of work?

It’s hard to pick a favourite. I really love creating embroidery portraits from my digital illustrations, like the series I’m currently creating for exhibition in Manchester (in The Lass O’Gowrie). I’m getting a great response to them and I constantly have more ideas for people I want to stitch!

I also love creating new patterns for other people to stitch too. For example I was really happy with how my Wizard of Oz pattern set turned out.

What advice can you offer those new to embroidery?

What I love about this embroidery revival is the whole ethos that anyone can do it. My advice is go online, find some patterns that inspire you and just

have a go! There are some amazing designers out there selling patterns of their work on Etsy.

We love books at Craftie; do you have any you’d recommend?

Doodle Stitching: Fresh and Fun Embroidery for Beginners by Aimee Ray (Sterling Publishing, £9.99), and Sublime Stitching by Jenny Hart (Chronicle Books, $19.95) are amazing books for beginners and full of patterns and projects to try out.

Also it’s an oldy but a goodie – find a second hand copy of Odham’s The Big Book of Needlecraft. There are many reprints of this book, some date as far back as the 1930s, but it covers all kinds of textile crafts and it’s a fantastic reference book!

You can find Bridgeen Gillespie blogging on cherryandcinnamon.com or you can visit her Etsy shop for embroidery patterns and finished works: www.etsy.com/shop/Bridgeen.

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I was

really

happy with

how my

Wizard

of Oz

paTtern

set

turned

out.

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Interviews

Opposite Page Top: Ruby Slippers Bottom: Tin Man

This Page Top-left: Anchor Bottom-left: Catwoman Right: Hello Sailor

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Issue One

Shop at the Ol

one of Oxford’s to t si vi a ys pa e ti af Cr This month full of hand-crafted op sh s it d an es ri lle ga t newes goodies. ffman

phed by Kelsey Ho Written and photogra

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Regular Features

ld Fire Station E very Wednesday in Oxford local farmers and sellers set up shop in Gloucester Green, next to the bus station. I went into town one day to check it out and see if there were any interesting artists selling items. What I found at the market was ultimately a disappointment (perhaps other weeks are better?), but this trip lead me to an unexpected find: The Old Fire Station.

Recently opened in November 2011, I wandered in the off chance in an attempt to escape the weather.

The Arts at the Old Fire Station offers an interesting programme of artists, from art exhibitions of collages to musical and theatrical performances; it seems there’s a bit of something for everyone with an interest in the arts.

The Shop at Old Fire Station is also a friend of local craft-makers and artists alike. It stocks a variety of handmade items, and specifically aims to support ‘homegrown’ makers from the Oxfordshire area.

The website advertises a variety of stocked items, including ‘original prints and illustrations, jewellery, accessories, cards, zines and more’.

Not only was the Shop a haven

Above: The Woodland Collection by Layla Amber features a number of beautifully made designs laser-cut into birch wood jewellery pieces.

from the heat, it is also a comfort to know that local artists and designer-makers in Oxfordshire, as well as the UK in general, are getting support somewhere in my fair city.

Some of my favourite items from the day included woodcarved jewellery designed by Layla Amber, upcycled ceramic dishes featuring prints skulls and cats by Melody Rose (see page 22 for interview) and beautiful

pillowcases designed by Oxford’s own Two Birds Textiles.

As well as offering help, support and shelf space for local artists, the Old Fire Station also shares a space with CRISIS Skylight to help the homeless find a voice through art and gain artistic skills.

It also is one of Oxford’s best places to check out for unique crafts and gift ideas.

Opening hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm.

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Top: Vintage owl plushies by Two Bird Textiles and Build a Birdie sewing kits from Tiny Stitches.

Bottom-left: Beautiful pillow cases by Two Bird Textiles.

Bottom-right: A variety of handmade items on display at the Old Fire Station.

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Regular Features

Top: Jewellery by Wolf & Moon.

Bottom-left: Handmade jewellery from a variety of sellers.

Bottom-right: Upcycled vintage ceramics designed by Melody Rose.

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Emily’s owl toy pattern Face

Body

Beak

Stomach

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For a larger version of this pattern, please visit http://craftiemag.wordpress.com/ owlpattern or download our Craftie app, available in the Apple and Android app stores.

the r o f h t o l C d o M Shop at d n a , o r t e r , e i best ind hing. t o l c d e r i p s n i vintage-

We now ship to the UK. http://www.ModCloth.com http://www.facebook.com/ModCloth

Issue One

Blogs we’re reading One Sheepish Girl Review by Jade Warden

The blog, One Sheepish Girl, focuses on the knitting journey of Meredith; a self-confessed shy child. Meredith blogs about her knitting projects, the items she sells in her Etsy shop, and what inspires her work.

The blog is maintained regularly, with work posted every few days. She receives a good amount of commentary on her work, and it is easy to see why; the blog is organised in a simplistic fashion but maintains an arty style throughout.

Her own photography enhances the site, and adds visual pleasure.

Unlike some arty types who can appear elitist, Meredith has maintained a down-to-earth nature. She gives quick response to her commenters with friendly messages, and asks questions directly to her audience.

The blog is undoubtedly an original; you can feel how passionate Meredith is about her knitting and craft work and witness how much effort she puts in to running the blog alongside creating her own unique work.

The blog has an extensive ‘About Me’ page so Meredith’s readers can be in touch with her on a personal level; everything is written in a pleasant tone making you want to get that much more involved with her journey and creations. She also has a list of her tutorials. The tutorials come complete with pictures and text to accurately guide you through her process. One Sheepish Girl illustrates that no matter how shy you are you cannot let it stand in the way of your creative passion.

See for yourself at: http://onesheepishgirl.blogspot.co.uk/

Mr. Yen

Dearest Nature

Mr. Yen, aka Jonathan Chapman, is a freelance designer who specialises in papercut artwork. His blog aims to keep us up-to-date on his latest work, and trust me, you will never be disappointed.

An ‘artsy lifestyle site and blog’ with some fabulous content inspired by nature. The blog has a good balance of photography, art and unexpected DIY projects that you won’t feel too overwhelmed making.

http://mr-yen.com/

One of Mr Yen’s ‘Promotional Papercuts’

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http://dearestnature.com/blog/

News, Events and more

events

Pedigree Patterns: Knit a Dog

12-13 October Victoria and Albert Museum London A two day workshop hosted by one of our favourite museums where you get to learn how to knit your own Jack Russell and Golden Retrievers. Basic knitting skills required and dog training not included.

Find out more: http://www.vam.ac.uk/whatson/

& workshops

Festival of Crafts

20-21 October Farnham The 16th annual Festival of Crafts will be hosted this year

by Farnham Maltings. It’s a celebration of contemporary craft in the south-east of England and exhibits everything from ceramics to embroidered accessories to oneof-a-kind wallpaper. https://farnhammaltings.com/festivals/ festival-of-craft/

The Creative Crafts Show

18-20 October Saviles Hall, Royal Armouries Leeds This year the Creative Crafts Show has moved to a brand new venue and promises to be better than ever. Offering a wide range of supplies to restock after a summer of crafting.

Find out more: http://www.sccshows.co.uk/lo12_proceed. html

Crafts for Christmas and Hobbycrafts

25-28 October SECC, Glasgow The International Craft & Hobby Fair Ltd is hosting two events on the same weekend in Glasgow.

Hobbycrafts is packed full of every type of product you can imagine getting your craftie fingers and Crafts for Christmas will have plenty of unique gifts and festive food and drink to go around. So if you’re in Scotland, this one is a definite ‘must see’.

MADE London: The Design and Craft Fair

26-28 October London After the huge success of the MADE Brighton, the team behind it has organised MADE London, which brings together professional designer-makers of beautiful, sophisticated crafts.

Find out more: http://www.madelondon.org/

Find out more: http://www.ichf.co.uk/events_calendar.php

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directory Abakhan

A craft store and haberdashery with everything from buttons and ribbons to sewing patterns.

Abakhan also offer workshops at their various store locations. http://www.abakhan.co.uk/

Brighton Sewing Centre A small shop packed full of sewing machines, fabrics, sewing supplies, craft goods and more.

68 North Rd Brighton BN1 1YD www.brightonsewingcentre.co.uk

Donna Flower Vintage, retro and antique online fabric store. Fabrics and haberdashery from the 19th Century to the ‘80s. www.donnaflower.com

Jane Means An online supplier of great British designed ribbons in all patterns and designs. www.janemeans.com

Make, Do & Mend Workshops Make, Do & Mend has workshops in everything from bookbinding

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and shoe making to beading and knitting. They also sell local handmade items as well as some craft supplies.

94 Byron Road Chelmsford Essex CM2 6HJ www.makedomend.com

Patch Fabrics Stocks ribbons and trims, cotton fabrics for crafting and fashion.

Fabrics include some designer names. They also hold workshops.

9 Bevan Street East Loewstoft NR32 2AA www.patchfabrics.co.uk

Quilty Pleasures Fabric, haberdashery and workshops for anyone who loves quilting. Craftie readers get 15% off all purchases using the code Craftie15.

1b Upper Hamilton Road Brighton BN1 5DF www.quilty-pleasures.co.uk

Sew Crafty A lovely haberdashery with all the trimmings, buttons, fabrics, ribbons and beads you could ever want.

3 High Street Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 1JN

News, Events and more

The Sewing Basket A wide variety of goods, including a good selection of knitting yarns, as well as sewing and cross stitch supplies.

61 Newmarket Street Ayr KA7 1LL http://www.sewing-basket.co.uk/

Wool-n-Things

Offers an extensive range of yarns and accessories for knitting, crochey, and cross stitch. They also offer workshops for all skill levels.

3-5 Hitchin Street Baldock Hertfordshire SG7 6AL http://www.wool-n-things.co.uk/index.php

Beautiful Mayblossum Gifts A great site to keep in mind as the gift-giving season approaches, it sells unique vintage and retro inspired items. Everything in the shop is reasonably priced and Craftie readers get free shipping on all purchases over ÂŁ25. Just use the code CraftieShipping. www.beautifulmayblossumgifts.co.uk

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Final say:

recipe for Lemon pepper chicken Serves: 1 Cook Time: 15 minutes Cost: Roughly ÂŁ2.55 Ingredients: One chicken breast One serving white rice One half tin sweet corn 15 mL Butter 30 mL Lemon Juice Ground black pepper

There are so many recipes out there for two or for families, but not really a lot good for one. This recipe is for one, but can easily be adapted for more.

Cook the rice according to the instructions on the packet. I only wanted a light meal, so I just put a little bit in the pot.

Meanwhile, heat a frying pan on high. Once hot, add the butter. When the butter is melted, put the chicken in the pan. Cook the chicken on one side, add half of the lemon juice and pepper to taste. Flip and repeat. Make sure to stir and flip the chicken so it cooks evenly. I cooked this for about 10 minutes on its own. For best results, use the instructions on the packaging. Always make sure the chicken is fully cooked before eating.

For a side dish I added the sweetcorn to the panadd this to the pan of chicken when the chicken is already cooked. The sweetcorn is ready to eat, it just needs to be heated up. I cooked them together in the lemon-pepper juice for about 3 minutes and then took the pan off to sit until the rice was finished cooking.

Drain and then pour the rice into the chicken pan and stir on a low heat for about 30 seconds and . . . order’s up! Time to eat.

Overall, this was a delicious meal. Simple and cheap, and for one! I hope you all enjoy this as much as I did.

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