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knit A hot watetroday! bottle cover
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MAIN IMAGE PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: KIT CHEUNG AND MATILDA SMITH
INSIDE THIS ISSUE ¤ POLAR BEAR HOT WATER BOTTLE ¤ SEQUIN PARTY CAPE ¤ CROCHET BABY BLANKET ¤ KITSCH LLAMA APRON ¤ CLAY FEATHER HANGING ¤ CHUNKY KNITTED SOCKS
CONTENTS
62
18
ON THE COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: KIT CHEUNG AND MATILDA SMITH; MODEL: HELLANA MARDASIAN
POLAR BEAR
INTRODUCING.. LIVING The latest news from the world of handmade
Fill your life and home with crafted goodness
9 INTRODUCING…
43 LIVING
Handpicked crafty happenings
We find the loveliest hand-crafted, creative buys for your home
14 TRENDS Shop and make the constellation trend
46 HOME TOUR
18 POLAR BEAR
A look inside illustrator and textile designer Jane Foster’s bold, creative space
Knit a super-cute Fair Isle hot water bottle cosy with pom pom ears
53 PATCHWORK CUSHION
26 TEA AND A CHAT
Use pretty prints to sew a beautiful heirloom Tilda project for your home
Meet the ceramicist behind Atelier Stella
An easy-sew party season accessory with glittering gold drop sequins
36 GOOD READ facebook.com/MollieMakes
pinterest.com/MollieMakes
4 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
@MollieMakes
MollieMakes
youtube.com/user/MollieMakes
87
Christmas kitchen set
32 SEQUIN CAPE
Talk to us!
issue number eighty seven
59 WIRE WALL GRID Get organised with a copper memo board and geometric pegs
62 LLAMA KITCHEN SET
How to crowdfund your creative biz
Sew a kitschy half apron and tea towel duo in a quirky festive-print fabric
39 CROCHET BAUBLES
67 PULL-OUT PAPERS
Combine pastels and sparkles in these last-minute Christmas makes
Inky, plant-filled patterns and posters by French print designer Jennifer Bouron
NEVER MISS AN ISSUE 24 Subscribe UK
Subscribe today and get a Tilly and the Buttons sewing book and pattern!
92 Subscribe overseas International subscribers save up to 78%
89
Feather hanging
WINTER TREATS
32
Sequin cape
LOVING Treats and treasures to fall in love with
The best way to stay chipper on cold, grey days is to indulge in a new project. So, whether you’re reading this in the run up to Christmas, or as you’re looking forward to 2018 (happy new year!), we’ve got something inside to inspire. Prep for party season by whizzing up the sequin cape on page 32, or stay in and get your knit on with the chunkiest, cosiest socks on page 81. Be it a last-minute gift, or a make for yourself, our adorable polar bear hot water bottle cover on page 18 is sure to win hearts. And, there’s lots of inspiration for the new year, too. Make a copper wire wall grid to get organised, or put your feet up and look around Jane Foster’s creative space for ideas aplenty. Have a great month, Mollie Makers!
81 Knitted oc
16
Constellation cushion
Yvette Streeter Acting Editor
75 LOVING Beautiful things to adore and make
76 DIAMOND PIÑATA Prepare to party with a sparkling piñata
81 CABLE KNIT SOCKS Keep feet cosy with these slouchy socks
85 BABY BLANKET Welcome a new arrival with crochet
89 FEATHER HANGING Clay wall art inspired by nature
85
Crochet blanket
93 TAPESTRY COWL Experiment with crochet colourwork
98 TEMPLATES All the shapes for this issue’s makes
106 BACK PAGE PROJECT Cloth+Candy’s plans for the year ahead Subscribe at molliemakes.com
Turn the page for more on your free gift! Then Turn to page 67 for your papers
Contributors
Jane Foster Jane is a children’s book illustrator and textile designer with a love for design from the 50s and 60s, and a soft spot for Dick Bruna’s Miffy. Her purpose is to bring joy into other people’s lives by creating happy illustrations. Peek inside Jane’s home on page 46. www.janefoster.co.uk
Jessica Biscoe Knitter Jessica swapped a job in corporate finance for a career in crafting and has never looked back. She can usually be found under a mountain of yarn in her home studio, or cat-watching out of her window. Knit Jessica’s polar bear on page 18. www.jessicabiscoe.co.uk
EDITORIAL Editor (on maternity leave) Cath Dean Acting Editor Yvette Streeter Senior Art Editor Helena Steele Deputy Art Editor Matilda Smith Commissioning Editor Lindsey Newns Production Editor Becca Parker Digital Editor (on maternity leave) Nina Dyer Digital Editor Hannah Carr Picture Editor Emma Georgiou molliemakes@immediate.co.uk
ADVERTISING
Call: 0117 300 8206 Senior Advertising Manager Penny Stokes Client Partnership Manager Beckie Pring Brand Sales Executive Lauren Morris
MARKETING & CIRCULATION
Head of Newstrade Marketing Martin Hoskins Newstrade Marketing Manager Janine Smith Subscriptions Director Jacky Perales-Morris Direct Marketing Manager Penny Clapp
PRODUCTION
Production Director Sarah Powell Production Managers Louisa Molter/Rose Griffiths Junior Production Coordinator Lily Owens-Crossman
LICENSING
Director of International Licensing and Syndication Tim Hudson tim.hudson@immediate.co.uk
Kate Jenkins Queen of the piñatas, Kate has always been creative – one of her earliest memories is playing at her mother’s feet as she sewed. Fun fact: she was once bitten by an alligator whilst feeding it marshmallows in the everglades. See Kate’s diamond piñata on page 76. www.pinyatay.com
Jennifer Bouron Print designer Jennifer likes to use strong colour combinations. Her work is inspired by daily life and is always packed with cats, girls and plants. She draws her characters wearing clothes she’d like in her own wardrobe. Find Jennifer’s bold papers on page 67. www.jenniferbouron.com
BUYING TEAM Paul Torre, Karen Flannigan, Corinne Mellerup
MANAGEMENT
Publishing Director Catherine Potter Group Senior Editor Julie Taylor Chief Executive Officer Tom Bureau Managing Director, Bristol 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.
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.
Stella Baggott Stella became a potter quite by accident after falling in love with the craft, and now makes characterful pots and planters in her sunny Brighton studio, drawing inspiration from Cornish, Italian and Swedish potters. Read about Stella’s creative process on page 26. www.atelierstellaceramics.com
Geraldine Sy Illustrator Geraldine is from the Philippines. She loves the ocean and goes to the beach in her spare time, popping on her snorkel and swimming beyond the shallows to remove destructive sea stars from the coral. See Geraldine’s illustration on page 36. www.geraldinesy.com
Other contributors Anna Alicia, Chrissie Asbridge, Jessica Bateman,Valerie Bracegirdle, Amanda Bryde, Dave Caudery, Kit Cheung, Hannah Cross, Fuz Chowdhury, Sarah Dennis, Karen Dunn, Kasia Fiszer,Tone Finnanger, Charlotte Gray, Alessandra Hayden, Hellana Mardasian @ Mustard Models, Emma Mitchell, Fiona Murray, The New Craft House, Philip Sowels, Lottie Storey, Hester van Overbeek
6 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
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. Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited (company number 05715415) is registered in England and Wales. The registered office 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.
your bonus gift!
Floral hoop kit
THIS GIFT COMES WITH THE PRINT COPY OF THE MAGAZINE ONLY. ALTERNATIVE GIFT ON SOME OVERSEAS COPIES. PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: KIT CHEUNG AND MATILDA SMITH
Up your embroidery game with Amanda Bryde’s vibrant botanical design
Let love bloom “This design was inspired by my love for florals. You can ask anyone who knows me – I have florals on everything! Whether it be books about botanics, prints on shirts and fabrics, anything vintage that my grandmothers passed down to me, or some of the latest trends, I’m obsessed. It was only natural that this design came from that obsession. The colours used in this pattern were inspired by my sweet little girl, and her love for
rainbows and all things bright and beautiful. Using just a few basic embroidery techniques, you’ll find this so easy to stitch, and will end up with a gorgeous hoop to brighten any space!” Amanda Bryde is a wife, mama and maker. She’s based on the Sunshine Coast, Australia and sells embroidery kits, patterns and supplies online. Visit her website at www.brynnandco.etsy.com Find instructions for stitching your hoop on page 98, then share it using #molliemakers.
Gorgeous knitting, crochet & embroidery supplies
WWW.LOOPKNITTING.COM 15 CAMDEN PASSAGE, ISLINGTON, LONDON, ENGLAND
INTRODUCING..
87
THE LATEST IN CREATIVE GOODNESS – HANDPICKED JUST FOR YOU We like to look at our purchases on a costper-wear basis, so had zero guilt popping this velvety beauty from Anthropologie straight into our shopping bag. The tactile fabric is luxe enough to swish around in at parties, while its casual smock style means it looks just as good with jeans. Never has a wardrobe addition worked so hard. www.anthropologie.co.uk
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87 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 9
TOP READ Mini makes If the latest trend for styling dolls’ houses makes you extremely happy, check out Sam McKechnie’s Miss Violet’s Doll House. With 25 small-scale projects, it’s a pursefriendly way to create your dream home. www.pavilionbooks.com
You can never own too many chunky knits, especially if they make you feel like the lead in a Nordic noir drama. Channel Scandi style and keep cosy in this Plumo version. www.plumo.com
THIS MONTH’S WISHLIST
Indulge your inner stationery geek with Rifle Paper Co.’s gorgeous pencils. Adorned with metallic gold detailing and their pretty illustrations, they’ll make writing the first page of your 2018 journal so much easier. www.riflepaperco.com
Forget terrariums – only a glasshouse filled with tropical greenery will satisfy a true plant lady’s addiction. Luckily, Oh No Rachio’s new embroidered patch collection is here to save us all. www.onrshop.com 10 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
PHOTOGRAPHY: PABLO VEIGA @PABLO_VEIGA
CASTLE has the art of mixing pattern, print and texture down. A celebration of colour and whimsy, we want all their spotty, flowery, pom pom-tastic cushions, and we want them now. www.castleandthings.com.au
Colourful glazes are used to create graphic patterns
BRAND FOCUS NATKO Ceramics Nat first discovered the joys of clay in 2015 as a way to help her wind down after work. Accountant by day, potter by night, she now sells her unique ceramics and jewellery online and at craft fairs, hand-building each piece in her home studio. Nat describes her work as “modern, bold, graphic and fun”, and takes inspiration from all over, be it Japanese design, Scandi colour pops, or her cat, Skye. www.natkoceramics.co.uk Make this New Year’s Eve the most decadent yet with an elegant cocktail party, courtesy of Bloomingville. From crystal glasses to gilt trays and bowls, their new-season kitchenware is an Art Deco dream come true. www.bloomingville.com
Nat loves to make these chunky ceramic beads
WEBSITE TO WATCH Mamahood
Each piece is hand-built and hand-painted
Showcasing and supporting creative mamas and their small businesses, The Mamahood is a one-stop shop for kids’ clothes and accessories, crafty goodies, and treats for you and your home. Featuring brands such as Wonder and Rah, Cloth&Candy and Ingrid Petrie Design, you’ll want to bookmark this page, stat. www.themamahood.co.uk Subscribe at molliemakes.com
87 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 11
TOP READ Live well
Gems and bling not your thing? Then take a look at Tatty Devine’s quirky jewellery collection. Our top pick is this Moth Link Necklace – each one is digitally printed onto a birch wood shape for style that’s as subtle as these winged wonders. www.tattydevine.com
Master the concept of lagom, meaning ‘just enough’, with Niki Brantmark’s new book, Lagom: The Swedish Art of Living a Balanced, Happy Life. Discussing ideas such as living sustainably and cutting down on your gadget time, it proposes small changes that’ll have a big impact. www. harpercollins.co.uk
Whether you’re wrapping up Christmas presents or birthday treats, use Kitty McCall’s new Abstract Bloc Gift paper to make sure your pressie gets an ooh before it’s even been opened. www.kittymccall.com
You know someone’s living their best life when they make handwrapped pastel rainbow wall art as part of their day job. Share in the happiness and hang one of these statement pretties in your home. www.mandismethells.etsy.com 12 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
Stamped-down backs, raspberry suede, a concealed wedge heel... Georgina Goodman’s Slippers truly are a thing of beauty. Treat your feet to these outdoor shoes with indoor attitude. www. georginagoodman.com
If you already love V&Co.’s Ombré fabrics, you are going to go crazy for their Ombré Confetti with Metallic Dots! It’s the same twenty colors of ombré that you know and love, but it’s been dressed up for a party with gold metallic confetti dots! Combine these fabrics with V&Co’s existing Ombré fabric and patterns and have some fun by using them in your latest project ideas. In stores this February, 2018. pattern shown by V&Co. sold as a kit KIT 10807 or pattern VC 1251
Ombre Weave Size: 64” x 80”
© 2017 moda fabrics - all rights reserved
INTRODUCING trends
THIS MONTH WE’RE OBSESSING ABOUT...
CONSTELLATIONS It’s all about the night sky – think inky blue hues with golden starry details
14 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
Sleep beneath the stars all winter and dream of outer space. www. urbanoutfitters.com
INTRODUCING trends 02
01
03
CROWN AND GLORY IMAGE PHOTOGRAPHY: HOLLY BOOTH PHOTOGRAPHY
01
Give your dinner
party the astronomnom-nomical edge. www.westelm.co.uk 02
A piece of night sky
in painterly locket form. www.bonbiforest.com 03
Wear a star-studded
halo crown. www. crownandglory.co.uk 04
04
Heels this fab don’t
need to match. www. anthropologie.com 05
A space-saving
enamel pin design. 09
www.shopspaces between.etsy.com 06
Slip into something a
little more celestial. www.topshop.com 07
Suede and shiny
05
06
rose gold? Cosmic. www.trouva.com 08
Written in the stars.
www.berylune.co.uk 09
Meet your match,
zodiac-style. www. thesocialtype.com
07
MAKE IT! TURN THE PAGE TO 08
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DIY THE CONSTELLATION TREND 87 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 15
INTRODUCING trends
MAKE IT!
CONSTELLATION CUSHION
MATERIALS Q Two 42.5 x 42.5cm (16¾ x 16¾") squares of navy velvet fabric Q Matching sewing thread Q Metallic embroidery thread (we used DMC Mouliné E168) Q Tear-away fabric stabiliser (we used Sulky Tear-Easy) Q Wooden embroidery hoop, 25.5cm (10") Q Fine marker pen Q Embroidery needle Q 40cm (15¾") square cushion pad
16 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
01 Using the template on page 98, trace the constellation design onto a square of fabric stabiliser using the marker pen. Tack the traced design on to the right side (RS) of one of the squares of velvet fabric with the sewing thread, using long stitches all around the edge of the fabric stabiliser. 02 Place the tacked fabric piece over the inner circle of the wooden embroidery hoop, RS up. Slide the outer hoop over the fabric and tighten the screw, then pull gently at the sides of the fabric to make it taut.
01
02
03
03
04
05
03 Cut a piece of metallic thread the length of your forearm. Thread the needle with two strands from this length, and begin stitching on the design with straight stitches. For the larger stars, use four overlapping stitches, and for the smaller stars, use three. Make even straight stitches to connect the constellation stars. 04 Carefully tear away the fabric stabiliser, using the blunt end of the needle to remove any bits trapped beneath stars. Repeat Steps 1-4 for the shooting star design, then randomly stitch tiny
cross stitches around the main constellation design for stars. 05 Remove the fabric from the hoop and place the two squares of velvet fabric with RS together. Sew along three sides, then turn the cover RS out and insert the cushion pad. Turn the raw open edges to the wrong side by 1cm (3/8") and sew closed.
Craft enthusiast Chrissie Asbridge shares embroidery videos to YouTube. She aims to make craft accessible, and sees life as a big work-in-progress. www.youtube.com/chrissiecrafts
Everyone deserves a Introducing the new Singer Fashion Mate machines The Singer 3333, 3337 and 3342 Fashion Mate include: @ Up to 32 Built-In Stitches @ 1-Step & 4-Step Buttonholes @ Built-in needle threader @ Top drop-in bobbin @ STAYBRIGHT™ LED Light @ Adjustable Stitch Length @ Heavy Duty Metal Frame @ Free arm @ On-board storage @ A range of free accessories
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Cosy up PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: KIT CHEUNG AND MATILDA SMITH
Stay warm with Jessica Biscoe’s super-cute knitted hot water bottle cover
HOW TO MAKE… A HOT WATER BOTTLE COVER MATERIALS Q Stylecraft Special DK, 100% acrylic, 295m/322yd per 100g, one ball each in Mustard (1823) (Yarn A), White (1001) (Yarn B), Fondant (1241) (Yarn C), Sherbet (1034) (Yarn D) and Grey (1099) (Yarn E) Q 4.5mm (UK 7, US 7) knitting needles Q Yarn needle Q 4.5cm (17/8") pom pom maker Q Black embroidery thread TENSION Approx 20 sts and 26 rows in st st to measure 10cm (4") square
20 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
ABBREVIATIONS (UK) st(s) stitch(es) k knit p purl kfb knit into front and back of same stitch ssk slip one st, knit one st, knit slipped sts together k2tog knit two sts together st st stocking stitch – knit one row, purl one row repeated rep repeat RS right side WS wrong side FINISHED SIZE Approx. 18.5 x 28cm (73/8 x 11") to fit hot water bottle approx. 16 x 26.5cm (63/8 x 10½")
This jumper-wearing polar bear gives the warmest hugs, but that’s not even the half of it. His blushing cheeks and fluffy pom pom ears have got us diving into the Team Mollie yarn stash and reaching for our knitting needles, plus his jazzy sweater is a great introduction to Fair Isle, too. If you’re still on the hunt for last minute Christmas pressies, knit your own version, then wrap him up with fancy hot chocolate and marshmallows to make a warming bundle of cosy winter treats. Instructions The hot water bottle cover is made from three main pieces. The front is knitted from the bottom upwards in one piece, starting with Yarn A, adding a Fair Isle section in the middle, and finishing in Yarn B. When working the Fair Isle section,
CHART
KEY Yarn A Yarn B Yarn C Yarn D Yarn E
where there are two colours in the same row, keep the colour not in use on the WS of the work, carrying the yarn across the back as you go. Keep these carried strands quite loose so they don’t pull the fabric. The back of the cover is made in two pieces to form an envelope opening. The lower half is knitted from the bottom up in Yarn A, finishing with a rib section where the envelope will be formed. The top half is knitted from the envelope opening upwards in Yarn B, starting with a rib section. The feet are made separately in Yarn B, and two pom poms are made in Yarn B for the ears.
Repeat the last 2 rows, 2 more times [34sts] Row 7 k to end Row 8 p to end Row 9 k1, kfb, k to last 2 sts, kfb, k1 [36sts] Row 10 p to end Rep the last 4 rows, 2 more times [40sts] Using stranded Fair Isle, work the chart above, repeating the pattern 5 times across the row, and joining and cutting each yarn colour as necessary. Next, cut Yarn A and join in Yarn B. Starting with a k row, work 12 rows of st st, or until the Yarn B section measures 5cm (2"), ending on a p row.
Front Using Yarn A, cast on 28 sts Row 1 (RS) k1, kfb, k to last 2 sts, kfb, k1 [30sts] Row 2 (WS) p to end
Head shaping Row 1 k1, ssk, k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1 [38sts] Row 2 p to end Row 3 k to end
Row 4 p to end Rep the last 4 rows, two more times, then work Rows 1 and 2 again [32sts] Row 15 k1, ssk, k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1 [30sts] Row 16 p to end Rep the last 2 rows, three more times [24sts] Row 23 k1, (ssk) twice, k to last 5 sts, (k2tog) twice, k1 [20sts] Row 24 p to end Rep the last 2 rows, once more [16sts] Cast off, then weave the ends into the back of the Fair Isle. Back – lower Using Yarn A, cast on 28 sts Work as given for the Front to just before the Fair Isle section (i.e. to end of Row 18), ending on a p row. Starting with a k row, work 18 rows of st st, or until the piece measures 87 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 21
HOW TO MAKE‌ A HOT WATER BOTTLE COVER 12.5cm (5") from the bottom edge Next row (RS) *k1, p1, rep from * to end of row Rep the last row, five more times. Cast off in pattern Back – top Using Yarn B, cast on 40 sts Row 1 (RS) *k1, p1, rep from * to end of row Rep the last row, five more times Starting with a k row, work 4 rows of st st. Work as given for the Head shaping from Row 1 onwards. Cast off Foot (make 4) Using Yarn B, cast on 8 sts Starting with a k row, work 10 rows in st st Row 11 k1, ssk, k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1 [6sts] Row 12 p to end Rep the last 2 rows once more [4sts] Next row ssk, k2tog [2sts] Cast off, leaving a long tail 22 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
Finishing Place the front and lower back pieces together with RS facing. Using a long length of Yarn A and a yarn needle, seam the bottom edge using horizontal mattress stitch. Next, seam the sides with normal mattress stitch, matching up the Yarn A sections. Position the upper back piece in line with the front head section, with RS facing. Seam in the same way from the top, then down both sides, using Yarn B. Overlap the last few stitches of the Yarn B ribbing with the top few stitches of the Yarn A ribbing. Place two of the foot pieces together with RS facing. Using the long tail, seam down one side using mattress stitch, across the toe (cast on edge) using horizontal mattress stitch, and finish seaming the final side. Leave the top edge open and stuff the yarn tails inside to pad the foot out. Repeat with the remaining two foot pieces.
Position the feet at either side of the lower body just before the shaping starts, as shown in the main image, and sew them securely to the body using horizontal mattress stitch. Using the pom pom maker and Yarn B, make two pom poms and leave the central ties long. Position the pom poms as ears on either side of the head where it starts to curve, and thread the long tails through to the wrong side, roughly 2.5cm (1") apart. Knot the tails, then weave the loose ends into the seam in opposite directions to secure. To embroider the face, refer to the main image as a guide. The eyes, nose and mouth are stitched with black embroidery thread. Use three strands and satin stitch for the eyes, six strands and satin stitch for the nose, and six strands and whipped backstitch for the mouth. Use a length of Yarn C and satin stitch to add the cheeks.
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Jessica Biscoe Jessica works from her home studio in Bristol as a freelance writer and crafter.Though she’s a knitter at heart, she’s also learning to sew, and is on a mission to create an (almost!) entirely handmade wardrobe.You can keep up with her crafty pursuits on Instagram @jessbiscoe. www.jessicabiscoe.co.uk
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Describe your style in a few words. I’d say it was fun, simple and characterful with a vintage feel.
Embracing change with...
ATELIER STELLA Stella Baggot, AKA Atelier Stella, makes amazing ceramics, but she never intended to be a potter.We hear her interesting story... Words: JESSICA BATEMAN Photographs: FIONA MURRAY
With their characterful shapes and quirky faces, Stella Baggot’s instantlyrecognisable ceramics have built up a cult following, with new batches regularly selling out within days. However, despite her success, she became a potter completely by accident. After studying graphic design at university in Derby, Stella moved to London where she worked as an illustrator at a children’s publishing company, and took up pottery classes for fun in the evenings. “My job was amazing and I really loved it,” she 26 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
recalls. A few years later, in 2011, she decided to take a stall at Renegade Craft Fair. “I just thought I’d sell a few pieces as a way of getting rid of all the work I’d accumulated,” Stella says. “But it went really well and I ended up featuring on a couple of design blogs.” Enquiries flooded in, so Stella set up an Etsy shop and worked on products in the evenings and weekends, until the pottery eventually took over. We popped to her sunny seaside studio for a look around and a chat about the unexpected turns a creative career can bring.
How did you discover pottery? My mum has a kiln at home and when I was growing up we always had pottery around the house that she’d made. I started classes not long after finishing uni, and loved it. Ceramics is a bit like cooking – you’re just focusing on what you’re doing and not thinking about anything else, so it’s very relaxing and meditative. For years I just played around making presents or things I needed for the house. I was always trying to bid for vintage pottery on eBay but would often miss out, so started making them myself and tweaking the colours or changing the style slightly. Even today, everything I make is something I’d like in my own house, and it’s amazing that other people actually like it too. It never occurred to me it would end up being my career! Why did you choose to take your ceramics business full time? I was slow to make the change because I genuinely loved my job as an illustrator. But in a way, that worked in my favour. Because I was only working on my own terms at weekends and evenings I could only make small batches of pieces, which
INTRODUCING tea & a chat
“I love Cornish pottery from the 60s and 70s that had a lot of imprinting on.”
02
01
created a real demand once I started being featured on design blogs. Ultimately, although my illustration job was amazing, I was still working for someone else – you’re still told what to do and you still have an art director. With ceramics, it’s my business and I make all the choices and decisions, which is why I don’t do custom pieces – I don’t want to feel like I’m just making what other people want me to. Also, my time is completely my own, so I can work really hard for two weeks then have a week off, or I can have Subscribe at molliemakes.com
the mornings off and work from 12 noon until 10 o’clock at night. Who or what inspires your work? I love Cornish pottery from the 60s and 70s which had a lot of imprinting on, and Scandinavian pottery such as Bjorn Wiinblad’s work, which often featured heads and faces. Yet I also really like the simplicity and muted colours of Japanese ceramics. So, I guess I mashed all those things up together and came out with my own personal style of ceramics.
03
01
Shelves of Stella’s
pots: “Anything that
creations. She holds
breaks or cracks
open studios every
ends up being used
Friday where
in the studio!”
customers can buy her wares in person. 02
An assortment of
tools in Stella’s own
03
Stella’s constantly
jotting down ideas in sketchbooks or on scraps of paper.
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INTRODUCING tea & a chat
Tell us what a typical working day is like for Atelier Stella. I usually do some admin in the mornings at home, such as answering emails or checking invoices. Then I get to the studio about 11 o’clock. I make everything in batches, so I might be finishing some halfmade pieces then doing some glazing, or packing orders and going to the post office. I’ll work through until around seven in the evening, then often when I get home there’ll be more emails or paperwork. But then the beauty of freelance is I might take a day off randomly one week.
01 02 01
Working on a
whirler – a rotating stand that lets potters stamp or engrave an item all over. 02
Lady vases, tripod
planters and tripod bowls are some of Stella’s best-selling products right now.
28 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
Has moving from London to Brighton shaped your creative output? I was yearning for more of a community, and I think I’ve achieved that here. London’s great but you have to put a lot of effort into the creative scene. It’s very young and it can be a bit cliquey. Here in Brighton, I know the shop owners, I see the same people and we recommend each other for work or do joint exhibitions together. It’s a lot friendlier and calmer. The move here to Brighton has also given me the space to think; to create more and grow the business. When I just had my home studio in London and was working two different jobs, it felt like I was churning out what needed to be done. Having my
INTRODUCING tea & a chat
“Having my own studio means I have so much more space to try things out.”
02
01
own pottery studio means I have so much more space to try things out. Also, I can afford to buy a flat here! How does your creative process work? I do keep a sketchbook but it’s more doodles than detailed drawings. I can see anything from a wooden spoon to a metal sculpture and think of a design, then start doodling away on scraps of paper. I’ll finalise the design once I’m actually making the ceramics. It’s often about making test pieces, seeing what works Subscribe at molliemakes.com
or what needs adding to. It’s a very fluid process – I don’t have many set designs. I never seem to have a problem coming up with new ideas, it’s finding the time to create them all that’s the issue!
03
01
in the studio.
design are fresh out
03
Tiny ceramic
of the kiln and ready
glaze samples
for glazing.
are hung up on
02
What’s been the biggest challenge in getting your business off the ground? Being creative comes very easily to me, but the business side definitely doesn’t. Understanding all the accounts, taxes and admin is what I find the most difficult. I just want to make my pots!
item from her kiln
Pieces of a
Christmas Bell
Stella carefully
removes a tripod
Stella’s studio walls for reference.
87 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 29
INTRODUCING tea & a chat
02
Which tools and materials could you not live without? Obviously I need lots of clay, as that’s what everything’s made from. But I don’t actually use traditional pottery tools – I’ll often make my own out of an old Biro pen, a carved pencil or some weird woodworking tool that I’ve found in my dad’s garage. Because I’m not a trained potter, I’ve always just had to figure it all out for myself and use what was around me. I don’t use a potter’s wheel either – everything is hand-built. 01
01
Stella bought her
high-tech kiln a year and a half ago, but had a second-hand one from eBay when she first started. 02
The trademark
face vases are inspired by potter Bjorn Wiinblad.
30 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
Atelier Stella Brighton-based ceramicist Stella’s in-demand vases, planters and ceramic ornaments are only available in small batches. Pop into her open studio on a Friday afternoon, or sign up to her newsletter to find out when new releases of her hand-built pieces are scheduled. www.atelierstellaceramics.com
Can you share the most important business lesson you’ve learnt? I’ve learnt to accept help and not try to do everything on my own. I now have an assistant who comes in for a couple of hours every week and helps me with packaging, rolling out the clay and making the shapes. I have to do the designing and the finishing, but I don’t have to do everything by myself. Finally, what’s the best piece of creative advice you’ve ever received? Make what you love. People can easily spend far too much time trying to predict what others might want, but if you really like what you create, then there’s a good chance other people will as well.
“Julia” sweater, £129
Christmas Close to “Folkkonst” eramic mug, £16
Nature
Embroidered table runner, £55
Stockholm | Est. 1976
PATTERNFUL This year, we’re celebrating Christmas close to nature, with beautiful fashions and home textiles featuring spicy patterns and unique handicraft techniques. All made from nature’s own materials.
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www.gudrunsjoden.com WELCOME TO MY STORE AT 65-67 MONMOUTH STREET, LONDON You can also visit our webshop, call 0800 056 9912 or e-mail order@gudrunsjoden.co.uk. Free shipping, fast delivery and 30 day return policy! UNITED KINGDOM SWEDEN GERMANY NORWAY DENMARK FINLAND IRELAND USA
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PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: KIT CHEUNG AND MATILDA SMITH; MODEL: HELLANA MARDASIAN
All that jazz Sew an easy wardrobe update for party season – The New Craft House show you how
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HOW TO MAKE… A SEQUIN CAPE MATERIALS Q 1m (393/8") sequin fabric (we used Hanging Sequin Tulle Gold from www. whitelodgefabric.com) Q Bias binding, 1m (393/8") Q Thin elastic, 5cm (2") Q Small button Q Marker pen
Jazz up an LBD or your go-to jeans and top combo with this amazing party cape. It’s made using a drop sequin fabric with sparkles that hang freely, giving lots of shimmery movement – ideal for throwing shapes this NYE. We’re loving the Gatsby gold tone, but you could opt for space-age silver, or even iridescent mermaid hues. And, as you’ll only need one metre of shimmering fabric for this make, it’s cheaper than hitting the high street. 01 Measure around your neck and add 15cm (6") to this measurement – this will be the neck circumference.
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Divide this number by 3.14 to calculate the neck diameter measurement, then divide this number by 2 to work out the neck radius measurement. 02 Measure from the base of your neck to halfway between your shoulder and elbow. This will be the length measurement. To make a longer or shorter cape, just change this measurement. 03 Fold the sequin fabric in half with right sides (RS) together, ready to mark out the cutting lines. 04 Begin by marking the neckline. Mark the length of the neck circumference along the centre of the folded edge. Then, from the
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centre point of the circumference, mark out the neck radius at various points, measuring out from the centre point. Join these marks to create a semi-circle. 05 Using the same method as in Step 4, measure and mark out the cape length, using the semi-circle drawn for the neck radius as a start point for the measurement marks. 06 Cut around the cape length line and cut out the small neckline circle. 07 To create the opening for the front of the cape, carefully cut a straight line from one point on the neckline down to the outer edge, along the fold, and on one side of the cape only.
08 Trim away a couple of rows of sequins from around the neckline to make a 1cm (3/8") gap free of sequins. This is to allow room for the bias binding edging to be added. 09 Fold the bias binding around the neckline, pinning it in place as you go. Sew, taking care not to sew
through any of the sequins, as this could break the needle. 10 To finish, securely sew the button onto one end of the cape neckline. At the other end of the neckline, sew on a small loop of elastic, making sure it’s large enough to loop the button through.
The New Craft House Craft-obsessed gal pal duo Hannah and Rosie are based in East London. From their studio, they blog about their modern take on crafting, sell their own range of inspiring sewing and knitting kits, and teach a whole host of creative workshops, too. www.thenewcrafthouse.com
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ILLUSTRATION: GERALDINE SY
INTRODUCING good read
CROWDFUND YOUR CRAFT
Want to give your business a boost in 2018? Karen Dunn shares how you can reach your creative goals with the support of fellow makers Words: KAREN DUNN Illustration: GERALDINE SY
Y
ou might be bursting with ideas for growing your handmade business in the new year, but what if your bank balance doesn’t match your imagination? Instead of getting in debt or going begging to the bank manager, more crafters are turning to crowdfunding as a stress-free alternative. Whether you want to take the leap to open your first Etsy shop, or just want to launch new lines, taking to sites such as Kickstarter, Crowdfunder, and Go Fund Me are great ways of finding like-minded people who believe in your product as much as you do. Once you’ve chosen your preferred site, you’ll set up a page detailing the amount you want to raise and the target you’re looking to achieve, then ask customers, followers and supporters to help you raise the funds you need. Pin maker Liz Harry (www.lizharry.etsy.com) has used Kickstarter six times to launch new designs. “Though the journey can be a rollercoaster, it doesn’t leave you with any debt.” And, not only is it a great way to raise money, it’s handy for trialling new products too. “Before crowdfunding, it took so long for me to recoup my manufacturing costs, I couldn’t try out new ideas,” Liz explains. “Now I set a target which covers my costs and, if it reaches that goal, I’m able to fund new designs without the financial risk. It also helps me see if a design is going to be popular.”
SHARING IS CARING
For investors, one of the benefits of crowdfunding – as well as the warm fuzzy feeling of supporting makers – is that they often get something out of it. Whether it’s a discounted version of your product, a workshop, or a free tutorial, offering contributors a reward helps them feel part of the process; that they’re investing in your business, rather than just giving a donation. So, while you do have to pound your social media to drum up interest, don’t feel guilty about asking for support. It doesn’t have to be a lot either – giving a fiver or even promoting your campaign with a retweet all helps makers to achieve their dreams. When Karli Dendy of Yeah Laser (www.yeahlaser. com) ran a crowdfunder to fund their first laser cutter,
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she wanted to make all their perks exclusive to the campaign. “Because they were limited edition, it gave people a reason to buy through the campaign rather than just through our online store,” she points out. “We worked with some of our crafty friends to create collaboration pieces that were also exclusive, and this helped our social media reach.” So was the strategy successful? “With five days to go we didn’t think we’d make our target, but everyone helped promote it in that final week, and we ended up slightly overfunded. We had such an amazing sense of achievement.”
TRICKS OF THE TRADE
There are lots of things to consider before kicking off your crowdfunding campaign, from whether to make a promotional video to factoring in extras such as postage costs. Use it to grow your social media at the same time by posting regularly, always keeping your posts positive, and making new connections. “Make sure your product photography is the best it can be, as good images are more shareable. Don’t be afraid to use your mailing list too, and if you have suppliers, offer them wholesale options,” advises Amy Philip of Button and Blue (www.buttonandbluestore.etsy. com), who used Kickstarter to fund her new kits. Amy also recommends being prepared to work hard. “The pledges don’t just flood in once you go live – you have to be willing to put yourself out there. A lot of successful campaigns aren’t just about the product, but the story behind the brand. For me, it was a big step out of my comfort zone, but a great learning curve.” Sophie Lee of geo-fleur (www.geo-fleur.com), who successfully crowdfunded a delivery van for her business two years ago, agrees. “The most important thing is to do extensive research. Also, get people to read your campaign first to make sure it makes sense. When my grandma told me she didn’t really understand it, I rewrote it from scratch,” she recalls. “Making a video was hard because it felt awkward to say, ‘Give us your money!’” laughs Sophie. “It’s worth it though – so much so we’re just about to start our next crowdfunding project in the new year!”
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Sparkle and shine
PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: KIT CHEUNG AND MATILDA SMITH
Whip up some last-minute Christmas magic with Charlotte Gray’s crochet baubles
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87 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 39
HOW TO MAKE… CROCHET BAUBLES MATERIALS Q Rico Creative Cotton Aran, 100% cotton, 85m/93yd per 50g, one ball in each White (80) (Yarn A), Rose (00) (Yarn B), Light Blue (32) (Yarn C) and Silver Grey (22) (Yarn D) Q Twilley’s Goldfingering, 80% viscose/20% polyester, 99m/108yd per 25g ball, one ball in Gold (002) (Yarn E) Q 4mm (UK 8, US G/6) crochet hook Q Three polystyrene balls, 7.5cm (3") diameter, 23.5cm (9¼") circumference Q Tapestry needle TENSION Tension is not important for this project, but do 40 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
check each hemisphere against the polystyrene ball as you work ABBREVIATIONS (UK) st(s) stitch(es) ch chain ch-sp(s) chain space(s) ss slip stitch tr treble crochet htr half treble crochet dtr double treble crochet yrh yarn round hook magic ring wrap working yarn around forefinger twice to create ring, slip ring off finger and insert hook to pick up first st, ch1, then work necessary sts for Round 1 and close ring tightly by pulling the loose end 2-tr cluster (yrh, insert hook in st indicated, yrh
and pull up loop, yrh and draw through 2 loops) twice, inserting hook in same st each time, yrh and draw through all 3 loops on hook 3-tr cluster (yrh, insert hook in st indicated, yrh and pull up loop, yrh and draw through 2 loops) 3 times, inserting hook in same st each time, yrh and draw through all 4 loops on hook FINISHED SIZE Each bauble is approx. 8cm (31/8") in diameter
Whatever vibe you’re going for with your tree this year, there’s always room to squeeze in a bit more sparkle, right? These pastel baubles are quick and easy to crochet – also handy if you’re after a last-minute gift idea, like for the friend you weren’t expecting a present from. We reckon this trio would also be lovely for those celebrating their first Christmas in a new home. Or, you could start a new tradition of giving handmade decorations each year, personalising baubles with your pals’ favourite colours for extra brownie points. Instructions To make each bauble, two hemispheres are crocheted together around the polystyrene ball. Each round is completed with a slip stitch and fastened off. Make the process easier by crocheting
over the yarn ends in the previous round to avoid having to sew them all in at the end. Bauble hemisphere (make 2) Round 1 using Yarn E, start with a magic ring, ch4 (counts as 1dtr), 11dtr into the magic ring, pull the ring closed, ss to the 4th ch from the start to join [12sts] Break yarn and fasten off Round 2 attach Yarn A in between any dtr stitch of the previous round. Work this round into the spaces between dtr from Round 1, ch3, 2-tr cluster into same space, ch1, (3-tr cluster in next space, ch1) 11 times, ss to 3rd ch from start to join [12 3-tr clusters and 1ch-sps] Break yarn and fasten off Round 3 attach Yarn B in any 1ch-sp, ch3 (counts as 1tr), 2tr into the same 1ch-sp, (3tr into next 1chsp) 11 times, ss to the 3rd ch from the start to join [36tr]
Break yarn and fasten off Round 4 attach Yarn A in any st. Ch3 (counts as 1tr), 1tr into each st around, ss to 3rd ch from start to join. Break yarn and fasten off Round 5 attach Yarn B in any st, ch2 (counts as 1htr), 1htr into each stitch around, ss to 2nd ch from the start to join. Break yarn and fasten off Finishing Attach Yarn E to any st on the last round of one hemisphere. Place the two hemispheres together, last
rounds touching, and join them by working through the sts on the last round of both hemispheres. Ch2 (counts as 1htr), then work 1htr through both sets of sts all around. Halfway around, insert the polystyrene ball and continue. Ss to 2nd ch from start to join. Break yarn and fasten off, leaving a long tail to create a hanging loop. Repeat the pattern twice more to create a set of three different coloured baubles, replacing Yarn B with Yarn C for the second bauble, and with Yarn D for the third.
Charlotte Gray Melbourne-based maker Charlotte can often be found crocheting into the wee hours of the morning while the kids are in bed. She taught herself to crochet and now sells her creations online – find her sharing her cuties on Instagram @littlehappygorgeous. www.littlehappygorgeous.bigcartel.com
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LIVING
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INSPIRATION ALERT! SPACES, PLACES & NEW DESIGNERS TO WATCH
PHOTOGRAPHY: GARETH HACKER
Create a cosy nest this winter with Donna Wilson’s quirky homeware. From bird foot bedding to oversized leaf cushions, weekend lie-ins (and pillow fights) have never been so much fun. www.donnawilson.com
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Taking low maintenance to the next level, Howkapow’s Monstera print will flourish in any home – no watering necessary – while Ink & Ocean’s retro pear is guaranteed to look fresh for years to come. www.howkapow.com; www. notonthehighstreet.com/inkandocean
GET THE LOOK
Cheer up your day with this monochrome Tellkiddo storage bag. Not only does it hide away all your clutter, it does it with a big grin on its face. www.thismodernlife.co.uk 44 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
PLAYFUL ACCENTS
Start your day with a pop of colour, courtesy of Jane Foster’s Scandiinspired mugs and coasters – affordable art at its best. www. johnlewis.com
Tea, casseroles – anything made in an Orla Kiely pot tastes a whole lot better. Well, maybe that’s not strictly true, but her bold prints and retro colour combos mean it looks more impressive, anyway. www.orlakiely.com
This bedside table’s impressive set of pins give mid-century style a modern update, and indulge our current crush on all things yellow. It’s a win-win. www.notonthehighstreet.com/lycandesign
These knitted Fruiticana playthings also double up as the comfiest cushions. Finally – a kids’ toy you’re happy to sit on accidentally. www.fermliving.com Give your succulents a monochrome home
BRAND FOCUS Cast + Clay Combining minimal monochrome and abstract shapes, mother and daughter team Valerie and Raechyl craft their trinket dishes, pots and other handmade items in rural Nottinghamshire. Be it dots, stripes or squiggles, each item is decorated individually, adding to the bespoke feel of these striking clay pieces. www.castandclay.com
Joint founder Raechyl is a visual artist and potter
WEBSITE TO WATCH OMM Design OMM Design’s covetable collection of games, prints and toys will have you squealing with glee. Filled with colourful goodies, from vintage-style matchboxes to kitsch enamelware, this Swedish site is essentially a treasure trove for your inner child, but this time round, you’re old enough to appreciate it. www.ommdesign.se Subscribe at molliemakes.com
Each stonecast pot is made using a ceramic mould
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LIVING home tour
Jane’s living room is a world of monochrome cushions and prints, plus prized drawings from her daughter Polly.
Designer Jane Foster lives in a home as colourful as her work Words: LOTTIE STOREY Photography: KASIA FISZER
Jane Foster has one of the most recognisable styles in the business, so we weren’t suprised that her Devon home is as bright and bold as she is. Walking through the illustrator, author and textile designer’s bright yellow front door into this 60s house, you’re greeted with swathes of white – white floor, white walls. But this is far from subdued Scandi chic. Pops of colour ping out from every corner, in Jane’s trademark red, yellow and blue palette. “I’m a big fan of
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LIVING home tour
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LIVING home tour
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ANIMAL MAGIC Many of Jane’s distinctive animal designs have been made into kitchenware, including these jugs and mugs. Sitting amid Jane’s existing collections of mid-century crockery on her Habitat shelving, the overall look is fun and colourful. Even in these details the monochrome and primary colour palette is carried through, making the whole space feel harmonious.
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choosing things you love instead of trying to fit into a trend,” says Jane. “I know within seconds if I love an item or not – I’m quite spontaneous.” When your colour compass is this strong, it’s easy. So did the same apply when Jane and partner Jim found the house three years ago? “We’d driven past this house a few years before it was for sale and I remember telling Jim that I loved the design.” So when the house came on the market? “It was meant to be! We fell in love with the layout and the dream of what it could one day become. It needed an injection of love and light.” Despite its large windows, front and back, the house felt dark. “Grey tiles on the kitchen floor, dated wood-effect kitchen cupboards with the doors hanging off, and brown patterned tiles. And the walls were mostly blue and cream.” Not very Jane Foster... Now, the house is transformed. Jane and Jim began with a blank canvas, removing a wall 48 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
between the kitchen/diner and snug before painting the whole thing white. “Stripping the room back to its bare shell allowed us to notice where the sun is at certain parts of the day,” recalls Jane. “You have to be careful not to display artwork and books anywhere they can get bleached, or to place the sofa and TV where you have to pull the curtains every time!” And once the basics were in, Jane added her finishing touches. “After the furniture, we added pictures, deciding if a grouped selection looked best, or one large print per wall. I tend to add touches of colour like cushions and plants last.” So where does Jane shop for furniture and accessories? “I love a mixture of old and new. I’m not keen on dark wood and antiques, but I do like simple Scandinavian furniture from the 60s. eBay is a great source and I particularly enjoy searching for vintage Habitat furniture, lamps and anything birch ply.” She also likes
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Although Jane and
Jim love colour, the majority of their kitchen and dining room is bright white. 02
Pieces by Jane’s
favourite designers, such as Lucienne Day and Donna Wilson, fill her home.
Jane draws, designs, writes and sews in her studio. Her space features IKEA drawers and a pegboard wall.
LIVING home tour
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car boot sales for finding the unexpected. “Jim collects miniature Matchbox cars and caravans while I love vintage children’s books, wooden puzzles and picture dominoes.” These aren’t just decorative items for Jane, but inspiration for her work. So is there a favourite? “My proudest find is either our 80s Kit-Kat vending machine from Brighton station, or a 50s Dutch birch ply sewing box that I bought on eBay 15 years ago.” Jane’s new obsession is houseplants. “I’ve got more into these in the past few months, influenced by Instagram! I love plants that don’t need much watering: succulents, String of Pearls and Pilea. Plants look great against a white backdrop and help the place feel less sterile – I can’t imagine a room without them now.” Outside, the garden is minimalist – just grass and decking as the couple didn’t want to spend time weeding. But it also holds a secret: Jane’s studio. “The back garden was wide enough 50 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
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to build a large studio for me that couldn’t be overlooked,” she explains. It’s the cherry on the top of a family home that’s used for living, working and socialising. Jane loves life in the Devon countryside, and how the house itself connects with nature so effortlessly. “It’s so nice relaxing in the living room in the evening when the log burner is lit. We see the most amazing sunsets from it, and farmland in the distance.” Picture-book perfect.
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Favourite car
boot finds sit alongside classic Dick Bruna and Jane’s own designs. 02
Prints dot the
walls of bedrooms and living spaces, inspiring Jane’s work every day.
Jane Foster Author, illustrator and textile designer Jane is based in South Devon. Her bold, happy designs can be found in children’s books, and on mugs, wall art and on other goodies. She’s currently working on five new books for 2018. www.janefoster.co.uk
A handpicked collection of fabrics delivered to your door
www.misformake.co.uk
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52 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
Home comforts Show off your patchwork skills with Tone Finannger’s cosy Tilda cushion
Fig A
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Fig C1
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Cottage block 1
Fig B
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2.5 x 4cm 10
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11 x 4cm
11.5cm x 6.5cm
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6.5cm 6
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6.5cm square
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Cottage block 2
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Fig C2
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Fig C3
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HOW TO MAKE… A PATCHWORK CUSHION MATERIALS Q 40cm (15¾") Tilda Fabrics The Cottage Collection in Solid Off-white (Fabric 1) Q 23 x 23cm (9 x 9") each of Tilda Fabrics The Cottage Collection in Botanical Red (Fabric 2), Sigrid Red (Fabric 3), Minnie Red (Fabric 4), Berry Leaf Red (Fabric 5), Minerva Red (Fabric 6), Berry Leaf Plum (Fabric 7), Botanical Plum (Fabric 8), Fireworks Red (Fabric 9), Sigrid Plum (Fabric 10), Minnie Plum (Fabric 11), Botanical Sage (Fabric 12), Sigrid Dove 54 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
White (Fabric 13), Berry Leaf Sage (Fabric 14), Minerva Dove White (Fabric 15), Fireworks Sage (Fabric 16), Berry Leaf Blue (Fabric 17), Botanical Blue (Fabric 19), Minerva Blue (Fabric 20) and Sigrid Blue (Fabric 21) Q 107 x 44cm (42¾ x 173/8") wadding Q 107 x 44cm (42¾ x 173/8") lining fabric Q Two 58.5 x 34.5cm (23 x 135/8") pieces of backing fabric Q Three 2cm (¾") buttons Q Matching sewing thread
Team Mollie are huge fans of Tilda’s patchwork and fabrics, channelling modern vintage style in fresh colour palettes. This cushion is packed with prints from their new A/W 2017 Cottage fabric collection, and uses two patchwork blocks – the classic Flying Geese and a cosy Cottage – to create a beautiful heirloom piece for your home. It’s worth taking your time over this slightly more advanced project, so use it as an excuse to plan a crafty weekend. Cutting out 01 From Fabric 1, cut six 11 x 4cm (43/8 x 15/8") pieces for the Cottage blocks, six 6.5cm (25/8") squares for
the Cottage blocks, two 11.5 x 4cm (45/8 x 15/8") pieces for the Tree blocks, 20 6.5cm (25/8") squares for the Tree block Flying Geese, six 4 x 29.5cm (15/8 x 115/8") strips for the sashing and two 4 x 98cm (15/8 x 385/8") strips for the sashing. 02 Cut one 11.5cm (4 5/8") square from Fabrics 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11 and 15. Next, cut out two 11.5cm (45/8") squares from Fabric 9. 03 Cut one 16.5cm x 6.5cm (6½ x 25/8") piece from Fabrics 19, 20 and 21. 04 Next, cut one 11.5 x 6.5cm (4 5/8 x 25/8") piece from Fabrics 2, 3 and 9. 05 Cut one 2.5 x 4cm (1 x 15/8") piece from Fabric 17 and two 2.5 x 4cm (1 x 15/8") pieces from Fabric 21.
Fig C4
Fig D1
Fig E
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Tree block make 2
Fig C5
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Fig C6
Fig F Fig D2
Fig C7
06 Cut two 11.5 x 6.5cm (45/8 x 2 5/8") pieces from Fabrics 12, 13 and 14, for the Flying Geese. Cut four 11.5 x 6.5cm (45/8 x 25/8") pieces from Fabric 16. 07 Cut two 6.5cm x 47cm (25/8 x 18½") strips from Fabrics 17, 19 and 20 for the binding.
Cottage blocks You’ll need to make one each of Cottage blocks 1, 2 and 3. All the Cottage blocks are made in the same way, but with different fabric combinations – Fig A shows the blocks and fabrics used, and Fig B shows the units and measurements that make up one block. Follow Steps 8-10 to make Cottage block Subscribe at molliemakes.com
1, then repeat with the relevant fabrics to make blocks 2 and 3. 08 Start by piecing together the roof – Fig C1 shows the fabrics needed. Place a 6.5cm (2½") square of Fabric 1 right sides (RS) together with the longest rectangle of Fabric 19, aligning the raw edges. Mark a diagonal line on Fabric 1 and sew, as shown. 09 Place the shorter rectangle of Fabric 3 perpendicular to Fabric 19 with RS together, mark the diagonal, then sew (Fig C2). 10 Trim off any excess fabric, leaving a 0.5cm (¼") seam allowance (Fig C3), and press open, creating a long strip (Fig C4). Add the remaining 6.5cm (2½") square
to the left-hand end of the pieced unit as before (Fig C5), then trim (Fig C6) and press open (Fig 7). The finished roof should be 6.5cm x 21.5cm (25/8 x 8½"). 11 Piece the Cottage block together following Fig D1 and Fig D2, pinning the fabrics with RS together, sewing along the relevant raw edge, then pressing open. The finished Cottage block should be 21.5cm x 29cm (8½ x 11½"). Tree blocks Each Tree block is made from five Flying Geese and a rectangle. You’ll need to make two Tree blocks – Fig E shows the fabrics used, and Fig F shows how to piece 87 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 55
Fig G
Fig H1
Fig H2
Fold 2.5cm twice and hem
Fig H3
Mark button positions
Mark buttonhole positions
Sew buttonholes
HOW TO MAKE… A PATCHWORK CUSHION together a Flying Geese block. Follow Steps 12-14 to make the top Flying Geese block, then repeat with the relevant fabrics to make the other four. 12 Place a 6.5cm (2½") square of Fabric 1 RS together at one end of a 6.5cm x 11.5cm (25/8 x 45/8") piece of Fabric 16, aligning the raw edges. Mark a diagonal line on Fabric 1 and sew. 13 Trim off any excess fabric, leaving a 0.5cm (¼") seam allowance, and press open. 14 Add a second 6.5cm (2½") square of Fabric 1 to the opposite end and repeat Steps 12-13. Once sewn and pressed, this square will overlap the one already sewn. 15 Repeat to create all five Flying Geese blocks, then piece the Tree block together as per Fig E, 56 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
pinning the fabrics with RS together, sewing along the relevant raw edge, then pressing open. Assembling the front 16 Lay out the Cottage and Tree blocks as per Fig G, with short sashing strips in between the blocks and at both ends. Sew and press open as per Step 15. Repeat to add the long sashing strips to the top and bottom of the patchwork, then press. 17 Place the lining fabric RS down, then layer the wadding on top, and the patchwork RS up. Align all raw edges, then quilt as desired. Assembling the back 18 Create a hem on both pieces of backing fabric by folding one short edge to the wrong side (WS) by
2.5cm (1"), twice. Sew (Fig H1). 19 Place the backing fabrics RS up, then mark the button and buttonhole positions along the centre of the hem, spacing them out equally (Fig H2). 20 Mark the length of each buttonhole, then sew in place, or add by hand using a tight blanket stitch (Fig H3). 21 Pin the two cushion back pieces to the finished patchwork front, with WS together, and aligning the raw edges. The hems should overlap slightly (Fig I2), allowing the buttons to sit in the buttonholes. Binding 22 Lay out the binding strips in a repeating order, then place the first two strips with RS together. Sew at one short end using a straight
Fig I1
Fig J1 Stop 0.5cm (¼") from the end
Fig J2 Fold up to create a 45o angle
Fig I2
Fig J3 Fold down and stitch from edge to 0.5cm (¼") from next corner
seam, then press the seam open. Repeat to join the remaining strips, creating one continuous length. 23 Press the binding strip in half along the length with WS together. 24 To sew the binding to the cushion, pin one raw edge of the folded binding to the raw edge of the cushion front, making sure not to start at a corner. Using a 0.5cm (¼") seam, sew the binding in place along the edge, starting at least 15cm (6") away from the end of binding. Sew to within 0.5cm (¼") of a corner, then stop (Fig J1). 25 Take the cushion off the machine and fold the binding upwards at a 45o angle (Fig J2). Hold this in place, then fold the binding back down and pin. Begin sewing the 0.5cm (¼") seam again, from the top of fold, to within 0.5cm (¼") of Subscribe at molliemakes.com
the next corner (Fig J3). Repeat at all corners, leaving roughly 15cm (6") of unsewn binding at the end. 26 To join the ends of the binding, open up the beginning and end of the binding tails, lay them flat, then fold the ends back so the two ends touch. Mark folds by creasing – this is where the seam needs to be. Open out the binding and sew the pieces together at the creases using a straight seam. Trim off any
excess fabric and press the seam open. Refold the binding, and finish sewing it to the cushion front. 27 Place the cushion RS up, then use a medium-hot iron to press the binding to the RS around all four sides. Next, fold the binding over to the back of the cushion and pin in place. Use matching sewing thread and small stitches, slipstitch the binding in place all around, creating neat mitres at each
Sewing By Heart This Tilda project is taken from Sewing by Heart by Tone Finnanger (£16.99), published by SewandSo. Inside, you’ll find more than 20 pretty sewing, patchwork, quilting and appliqué projects, all made using beautifully designed fabrics from the latest Tilda collections. www.sewandso.co.uk
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G E T T H E L AT E S T I S S U E ! HYGGE
PA P E R A R TS
C R E AT I V I T Y
N AT U R E
WELLBEING
Welcome to our beautiful magazine packed with creative projects & ideas, gorgeous photography and insightful features. Discover new ways to bring the joys of mindfulness & making into your life. £9.99*
WINTER
2017
EXTRAS DECK OF DREAM CARDS & DIY BOX 8 MINI PULL-OUT BOTANICAL POSTERS EXCLUSIVE 2018 WALL PLANNER CELEBRATION STICKERS
EXTRAS IN THIS ISSUE INCLUDE...
Eight vintage botanical prints on quality card.
A deck of 12 dream cards to inspire a good night’s sleep.
Pull-out 2018 wall planner with prompts to set goals.
Three sheets of Celebrate life patterned paper in journals, on to fold mini cards & gifts pinwheels. with stickers.
ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY O R D E R O N L I N E W W W. B U Y S U B S C R I P T I O N S . C O M / C R A F T S P E C I A L O R CA L L 03 3 3 0 16 2 13 8 A N D QUOT E ‘CA L M 6 P R I N T 1 ’ Lines open weekdays 8am to 6pm and Saturday 9am to 1pm. Overseas please call +44 (0) 3330 162 138. * EUR price £11.99, ROW price £12.99. All prices include P&P. Please allow up to 28 days for delivery.
ON THE GRID Get organised with Hester van Overbeek’s copper memo board and geo pegs
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HOW TO MAKE… A WIRE WALL GRID AND PEGS MATERIALS For the frame Q Stripwood, 1.5 x 2.5 x 180cm (5/8 x 1 x 707/8") Q Saw Q Mitre box Q Sandpaper Q Wood glue Q Small screws Q Screwdriver Q Mint green paint (we used Valspar in Young Cactus) Q Copper wire, 10m (11yd), 0.2cm (1/16") thick Q Wire cutters Q Staple gun Q Small hammer
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For the pegs Q Small wooden pegs Q Polymer clay in white and soft pink (we used Fimo) Q Rolling pin Q Copper acrylic paint (we used Daler Rowney) Q Mint green paint Q Masking tape Q Marker pen Q Hot glue gun
Move over Insta, there’s a new grid in town. Part notice board, part mini gallery wall, these copper display pieces are all over the high street right now. With a few basic DIY skills (staple gun at the ready), you can easily create your own take on the trend, complete with a mint wooden frame and painted geometric pegs. Use it to brighten up your space for the new year, keep to-do lists in plain sight and to show off your treasured prints and keepsakes. For the frame 01 Cut two 50cm (19¾") pieces of stripwood and two 40cm (15¾") pieces of stripwood. Using the saw and mitre box, cut mitre corners at the end of each piece of wood.
Sand the rough edges smooth with the sandpaper. 02 Align the mitre corners to create a rectangle frame, then glue all four pieces of wood at each corner. Leave to dry, then screw the wooden frame together to secure. 03 Apply a coat of mint green paint, then leave to dry. Apply a second coat if needed. 04 Unroll the copper wire and staple one end in place along one long edge at the back of the frame, 3cm (1¼") down from the top edge, leaving a 1cm (3/8") end loose. 05 Bend the loose wire end back on itself and secure with a staple. 06 Take the wire over to the other side, keeping it parallel, and making sure it’s as straight and tight as can be. Staple it in place.
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07 Bend the wire down at a 45o angle and staple in place, 5cm (2") below the previous staple. 08 Repeat Steps 6-7 until you reach the bottom of the frame. Bend the wire and staple the end piece in place as per Step 5. 09 To finish the grid, attach a new piece of wire to the top left corner of the frame, as per Steps 4 and 5. Take the wire down to the bottom, weaving the copper wire through the horizontal grid wires, going alternatively under and over. Staple in place at the bottom. 10 Bend the wire to the right at a 45o angle and staple 4cm (15/8") down from the previous staple. Weave the wire back to the top as before, but this time thread the wire over the horizontal grid wires
it went under previously, and vice versa. Repeat this process until the frame is filled, then bend the end of the wire back on itself, staple in place and trim. For the pegs 11 Take a piece of polymer clay and knead until mouldable. Roll the clay out to 1cm (3/8") thick and use a knife to cut triangle, hexagon and
diamond shapes from it, around the same size as the pegs. Bake the polymer clay shapes in the oven as per the manufacturer’s instructions, then leave to cool. 12 Use the mint and copper paints and the marker pen to decorate the shapes as desired, referring to the main image as a guide. 13 Attach a peg to the back of each shape using the hot glue gun.
Hester van Overbeek Hester is a craft author who lives on the south coast with her boyfriend and their little dog Kermit. She’s interested in upcycling, so her makes are frugal and simple to put together. Hester also shares DIY videos online, and her book Made with SalvagedWood is out now. www.hestershandmadehome.com
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PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPH: JAMES GARDINER
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Bakers gonna bake
PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: KIT CHEUNG AND MATILDA SMITH
Go kitsch this Christmas with Anna Alicia’s pinny and tea towel set
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HOW TO MAKE… AN APRON AND TEA TOWEL SET MATERIALS Q 75cm (29½") patterned fabric (we used Michael Miller Fabrics Llama Navidad in Red) Q 50cm (19¾") plain fabric Q White cotton tea towel Q Matching sewing thread Q Bias binding, 2m (2yd), 2.5cm (1") wide Q Pom pom trim with 1cm (3/8") pom poms Q Tailor’s chalk
For foodie folks, December means plundering the spice rack, digging out the Christmas cookie cutters and generally indulging in extra time in the kitchen. We think this calls for suitably jolly accessories, and a llama apron and tea towel set definitely fit the bill. The playful print, pom pom trim and contemporary flashes of mint add modern retro vibes that make this easy-sew set fun to create. Use them to add a festive feel to your kitchen, or give as a gift – if you can bear to part with them. For the apron 01 Fold the patterned fabric in half along the width with right sides (RS) together, making sure the print runs horizontally across it. 02 Using the template on page 98, mark out the apron front with tailor’s chalk, again, making sure the print runs horizontally across. Pin along
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the chalk line, then mark on an additional 1.5cm (5/8") seam allowance around the side and bottom edges. Cut out the apron along the outer chalk marks. 03 Sew the pinned chalk outline, leaving the top straight edge of the apron open, and removing the pins as you go along. Snip small triangles along the length of the seam allowance, as shown, to help keep the curves smooth. Turn the apron RS out and press neatly. 04 Measure and mark four 10cm (4") intervals along the top straight edge of the apron. At each marked point, fold the fabric to form a pleat roughly 1.5cm (5/8") wide, then pin the pleats flat with the fold pointing towards the centre of the apron. Sew along the top of the apron, 1cm (3/8") down from the raw edge, to secure the pleats in place. 05 Unfold one of the long edges of the bias binding. Starting at one top
corner of the apron, and working along one side, pin the opened-out edge of the binding to the apron, with RS together, and positioning the crease in the binding 2cm (¾") in from the raw edge of the fabric. Continue working around the outside of the apron, finishing at the opposite top corner. 06 Sew along the crease in the binding, removing the pins as you go, then fold the binding back on itself. Press in place. 07 Turn the apron over and fold the overlapping binding down to cover the raw edge of the apron. Pin in place, then sew using small, neat stitches, being careful not to sew through to the front of the apron. 08 To make the apron ties, mark out two 90 x 90cm (35½ x 35½") strips on the plain fabric, then cut out using a 1.5cm (5/8") seam allowance. Place the two pieces with RS together, then sew along one short
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edge, 1.5cm (5/8") in from the end. Open out into one long strip. 09 Fold all four raw edges to the wrong side (WS) by 1.5cm (5/8") and press in place. Fold the strip in half along the length with WS together and press again. 10 Pin and sew along the open long edge, 0.5cm (¼") in. Fold the strip in half along the length to find the centre, pin it to the centre point of the top of the apron, aligning the top edges, and sew in place. 11 Measure the top straight edge of the apron, then draw a rectangle the same length, and 10cm (4") wide. Cut out using a 1.5cm (5/8") seam allowance. Fold all four raw edges to the WS along the seam allowance and press, then fold in half along the length with WS together and press again. 12 Pin the rectangle across the top of the apron, with the WS of the strip sitting against the RS of the
apron fabric, and the central crease at the top. Sew along the side and bottom edges of the rectangle, 0.5cm (¼") in from the edge. For the tea towel trim 13 Measure the width of the tea towel. Fold the patterned fabric in half with RS together, then mark out a rectangle the same width, and 12cm (4¾") long. Pin along the chalk lines, then cut out using a 1cm (3/8") seam allowance. Sew the short edges and bottom long edge, leaving the top edge open.
14 Turn the fabric RS out and press, then fold the long raw edges to the WS by 1cm (3/8") and press in place. Slip one short end of the tea towel into the rectangle and pin in place. Sew along the open long edge of the fabric, roughly 0.5cm (¼") down from the top, to secure it in place. 15 Cut a length of pom pom trim slightly wider than the tea towel. Sew in place along the bottom edge of the fabric rectangle, as shown, folding either end of the pom pom trim over twice and securing in place with a few stitches.
Anna Alicia Anna is the designer-maker behind ethical label A Alicia, and is also an author. Her book, Make It Your Own, features 25 accessible craft projects for the home, with a focus on how to develop your own style and ideas, and put your stamp on each make. www.aalicia.bigcartel.com
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OH, YOU PRETTY THINGS! MOODBOARDS & MUSINGS TO INSPIRE US Velvet party dresses have us swooning this season, and when we came across Boden’s Robyn dress, we knew there could be no other – this is The One. Kimono sleeves, drapey silk velvet and a matching ribbon belt. Oh, and it has pockets.You’re welcome. www.boden.co.uk
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PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: KIT CHEUNG AND MATILDA SMITH
Smashing it! Take your party décor up a gear this year with Kate Jenkins’ sparkly diamond piñata
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HOW TO MAKE… A DIAMOND PIÑATA MATERIALS Q Four sheets of coloured tissue paper in different shades Q Six sheets of metallic paper Q Corrugated cardboard Q Ribbon, 90cm (35½") Q Sticky tape Q Craft knife Q Cutting mat Q Sweets or other filling Q Glue
If party planning is your thing (Pinterest is such an enabler), then let us introduce you to our current obsession – piñatas. Get cutting and sticking to make this glitzy gemstone design festooned with bright tassels, and your NYE shindig will go with an actual bang. Not only is it an amazing metallic decoration, your guests will have fun discovering what’s inside. Sweets? Party favours? Confetti? There’s only one way to find out... Piñata 01 Using the templates on page 98, cut one hexagon shape, six trapezoids and six triangles from the corrugated cardboard. 02 To make the hanging loop, cut two small slits in the middle of the cardboard hexagon and thread a 20cm (77/8") length of ribbon through, securing the ends with a
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knot on the inside. As this is a weak point, it’s advisable to reinforce this area with an extra layer of cardboard on the inside too. Thread and fasten the ribbon through both layers. 03 Using sticky tape, start by sticking the shorter edge of the trapezoid to the edge of the hexagon. Stick the shortest edge of the triangle to the longest edge of the trapezoid. Repeat this process with the remaining shapes. This should now look like a flat flower, as shown. 04 Join all the edges together and add the filling before sealing the final edges into a diamond shape. 05 Add a small loop of ribbon to the bottom point of the diamond shape. This will be for attaching the tassel tail to the finished piñata. 06 Cut the metallic sheets into 3cm (1¼") wide strips. Snip evenly along one edge of each strip to create a fringe effect, as shown.
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07 Starting at the bottom of the diamond and moving up, stick the fringing down in rows overlapping by 1.5cm (5/8"), so that only the fringe is visible. Keep adding glue and rows of fringing until the whole side is covered. Trim off any excess fringing for a neat finish, then repeat this process to cover the remaining five sides of the diamond shape with fringing. Leave to dry.
Tassels 08 Fold a sheet of tissue paper in half along the length and cut down the fold, making two long thin rectangle shapes. Put one of the rectangles to one side and fold the other rectangle in half again, this time along the width. 09 Lay the folded tissue paper flat on the cutting mat and cut 1cm (3/8") wide strips from the open short edges up to the folded edge,
stopping approximately 8cm (31/8") away from the folded edge. 10 Open up the tissue paper and lay it flat. Fold in half along the length, and keep folding until the middle is approximately 1cm (3/8") wide. You should now have tassels at both ends and a small section of uncut tissue in the middle. 11 Fold this piece in half so both tassels are together, and the middle is now a U shape, as shown. Use sticky tape around the top of the tassel section to secure, leaving a
loop to thread the ribbon through. Repeat Steps 8-11 to make five tassels, using different colours of tissue paper. To create a longer or bushier tail, make more tassels. 12 Thread a 70cm (275/8") length of ribbon through each tassel loop twice. For a longer tail, use a longer length of ribbon. Adjust the tassels so they sit at even intervals along the ribbon, then tie a knot around the tassel at the end to fasten. Tie the top end of the ribbon to the loop at the bottom of the piñata.
Kate Jenkins Kate runs Pinyatay, making piñatas from her home in Hampshire. She started creating piñatas and decorations after being inspired by her children’s love of party planning and their wild imaginations, and loves a challenge, often creating custom work for her clients. www.pinyatay.com
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PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: KIT CHEUNG AND MATILDA SMITH
Toast y knits Treat your toes to a pair of super-soft mohair cable socks by Sarah Dennis
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HOW TO MAKE… CABLE KNIT SOCKS MATERIALS Q Wool and the Gang Take Care Mohair, 78% kid mohair/13% wool/9% polyamide, 100m/109yd per 50g ball, five balls in Bubblegum Pink Q Set of four 4mm (UK 8, US 6) double-pointed knitting needles Q Cable needle Q Stitch markers Q Stitch holder Q Tapestry needle TENSION Approx. 24 sts and 24 rows over pattern using 4mm needles measures 10 x 10cm (4 x 4"). 1 pattern repeat of 20 stitches and 24 rows measures approx. 8 x 10cm (31/8 x 4").
ABBREVIATIONS (UK) st(s) stitch(es) k knit p purl rep repeat m1 make 1 stitch by picking up the loop between stitches and knitting into the back of it skpo slip 1, knit 1, pass slipped stitch over knitted stitch DPN(s) double pointed needle(s) k2tog knit 2 sts together k3tog knit 3 sts together p2tog purl 2 sts together tbl through back loops sl1 slip one st from left needle to right needle without knitting it st st stocking st (if knitting on straight needles – knit one row, purl one row
Reader offer Get 15% off all Take Care Mohair yarn at Wool and the Gang using code TAKECARE15. Offer valid until 4th January 2017. www.woolandthegang.com
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repeated, if knitting in the round knit all rounds) cn cable needle C4B slip next 2 sts onto cn and hold at back of work, k2, then k2 from cn C4L slip next 3 sts onto cn and hold at front of work, p1, then k3 from cn C4R slip next st onto cn and hold at back of work, k3, then p1 from cn C6B slip next 3 sts onto cn and hold at back of work, k3, then k3 from cn T4L slip next 3 sts onto cn and hold at front of work, p1, then k3 from cn T4R slip next st onto cn and hold at back of work, k3, then p1 from cn FINISHED SIZE To fit ladies size 5-6, but can be made longer
Chilly mornings are a whole lot sweeter with a big mug of tea and a pair of super-cosy socks to pad about in – simple pleasures. These oversized slouchy beauties, with their impressive cable texture, are just what you need to keep warm this winter. Knitted with a luxurious mohair yarn that looks like candy floss, and feels just as soft, prepare for your feet to be seriously spoilt. And for your Instagram feed to be filled with gratuitous sock shots. Sock (make 2) Cast on 64 sts and distribute the sts over three of the DPNs so there are 16 sts on the first two needles, and 32 sts on the third needle. Use a stitch marker to show the start of each round. Cuff Round 1 *k2, p2; rep from * to end of round Repeat last row 8 times more Next round *k2, p2, m1; rep from * to end of round [80 sts] Leg Round 1 *C4B, p4, C4R, C4L, p4;
rep from * to end of round Round 2 *k4, p4, k8, p4; rep from * to end of round Round 3 *k4, p3, C4R, k2, C4L, p3; rep from * to end of round Round 4 *k4, p3, k10, p3; rep from * to end of round Round 5 *k4, p2, T4R, k4, T4L, p2; rep from * to end of round Round 6 *k4, p2, k3, p1, k4, p1, k3, p2; rep from * to end of round Round 7 *C4B, p1, T4R, p1, C4B, p1, T4L, p1; rep from * to end of round Round 8 *k4, p1, k3, p2, k4, p2, k3, p1; rep from * to end of round Round 9 *k4, T4R, p2, k4, p2, T4L; rep from * to end of round Round 10 *k7, p3, k4, p3, k3; rep from * to end of round Round 11 *k7, p3, C4B, p3, k3; rep from * to end of round Round 12 as 10th round Round 13 *C4B, T4L, p2, k4, p2, T4R; rep from * to end of round Round 14 as 8th round Round 15 *k4, p1, T4L, p1, C4B, p1, T4R, p1; rep from * to end of round Round 16 as 6th round Round 17 *k4, p2, T4L, k4, T4R, p2; rep from * to end of round Round 18 as 4th round Round 19 *C4B, p3, T4L, k2, T4R,
p3; rep from * to end of round Round 20 as 2nd round Round 21 *k4, p4, T4L, T4R, p4; rep from * to end of round Round 22 *k4, p5, k6, p5; rep from * to end of round Round 23 *k4, p5, C6B, p5; rep from * to end of round Round 24 *k4, p5, k6, p5; rep from * to end of round Last 24 rounds set pattern. Repeat last 24 rounds twice more. At this point, the leg should measure approximately 32cm (125/8") from the cast on edge. Prepare heel Next row k1, k2tog, k7, k2tog, skpo, k7, k2tog, k7, k2tog, turn Next row p33, p2tog tbl, turn [34 sts] Slip next 34 sts onto 1 DPN. Work heel in rows from this point. Leave remaining 40 sts on a stitch holder. Row 1 *sl1, k1; rep from * to end of row Row 2 sl1, purl to end Repeat last 2 rows 7 times more. Turn heel Next row sl1, k19, skpo, k1, turn Next row sl1, p7, p2tog, p1, turn
Next row sl1, k8, skpo, k1, turn Next row sl1, p9, p2tog, p1, turn Next row sl1, k10, skpo, k1, turn Next row sl1, p11, p2tog, p1, turn Next row sl1, k12, skpo, k1, turn Next row sl1, p13, p2tog, p1, turn Next row sl1, k14, skpo, k1, turn Next row sl1, p15, p2tog, p1, turn Next row sl1, k16, skpo, k1, turn Next row sl1, p17, p2tog, p1, turn Next row sl1, k18, skpo, turn Next row sl1, p18, p2tog, turn [20 sts] Instep K20, pick up and k 11 sts along side of heel, using a 2nd DPN work across 40 sts on spare needle as follows: (C4L, p4, C4B, p4, C4R) twice, using a 3rd DPN pick up and knit 11 sts along side of heel, k10 [82 sts] You will now have 21 sts on the first needle, 40 sts on the second needle and 21 sts on the third needle, and you will work in rounds on 4 DPNs from this point, beginning at centre back of heel. The cable pattern will now only be worked across the 40 sts across the foot (the sole being worked in st st). 87 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 83
HOW TO MAKE‌ CABLE KNIT SOCKS Shape gusset Round 2 k18, k2tog, k1, (k4, p4) twice, k8, (p4, k4) twice, k1, skpo, k18 [80 sts] Round 3 k17, k2tog, k1, (k1, C4L, p3, k4, p3, C4R, k1) twice, k1, skpo, k17 [78 sts] Round 4 k16, k2tog, k1, (k5, p3, k4, p3, k5) twice, k1, skpo, k16 [76 sts] Round 5 k15, k2tog, k1, (k2, T4L, p2, k4, p2, T4R, k2) twice, k1, skpo, k15 [74 sts] Round 6 k14, k2tog, k1, (k2, p1, k3, p2, k4, p2, k3, p1, k2) twice, k1, skpo, k14 [72 sts] Round 7 k13, k2tog, k3, p1, T4L, p1, C4B, p1, T4R, p1, C4B, p1, T4L, p1, C4B, p1, T4R, p1, k3, skpo, k13 [70 sts] Round 8 k12, k2tog, k1, (k2, p2, k3, p1, k4, p1, k3, p2, k2) twice, k1, skpo, k12 [68 sts] Round 9 k11, k2tog, k1, (k2, p2, T4L, k4, T4R, p2, k2) twice, k1, skpo, k11 [66 sts] Round 10 k10, k2tog, k1, (k2, p3, k10, p3, k2) twice, k1, skpo, k10 [64 sts] Round 11 k9, k2tog, k3, p3, k10, p3, C4B, p3, k10, p3, k3, skpo, k9 [62 sts] Round 12 k8, k2tog, k1, (k2, p3, k10, p3, k2) twice, k1, skpo, k8 [60 sts] Foot Starting with Round 13 as set with pattern for leg and foot, continue without shaping, working 20 sts of sole in st st and 40 sts of cable panel, for 24 more rounds (you will finish with Round 12 of pattern). At this point the sole should measure approximately 20cm (77/8") from back of heel. If you want a longer 84 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
sock, continue until sock is 4cm (15/8") shorter than desired finished length, ending with an even round. Prepare toe Next row k15, k3tog, k1, k2tog, k1, k3tog, k3, skpo, k2tog, k3, k3tog, k1, k2tog, k1, k3tog, k15 [48 sts] Slip 2 sts from second needle onto first needle, and slip 2 sts from second needle onto third needle. You should now have 12 sts on first needle, 24 sts on second needle and 12 sts on third needle. Shape toe Round 1 (k9, k2tog, k2, skpo, k9) twice [44 sts] Round 2 k Round 3 (k8, k2tog, k2, skpo, k8) twice [40 sts] Round 4 k Round 5 (k7, k2tog, k2, skpo, k7) twice [36 sts] Round 6 k Round 7 (k6, k2tog, k2, skpo, k6) twice [32 sts] Round 8 k Round 9 (k5, k2tog, k2, skpo, k5) twice [28 sts] Round 10 k Round 11 (k4, k2tog, k2, skpo, k4) twice [24 sts] Next round Using the same needle, k6
Graft toe You should now have two parallel needles, each holding 12 sts. Break yarn, leaving a long length, and hold the work so the two needles are parallel and the long length of yarn is hanging from the back sts at the right. Thread the yarn through a tapestry needle. Graft toes together as follows: Put sewing needle purlwise into 1st st on front needle and pull yarn through. Put sewing needle knitwise into 1st st on back needle and pull yarn through. Next, put sewing needle knitwise into 1st st on front needle, pull yarn through and slip st off needle. Put sewing needle purlwise into next st on front needle and pull yarn through. Put sewing needle purlwise into 1st st on back needle, pull yarn through and slip st off needle. Put sewing needle knitwise into next st on back needle and pull yarn through. Repeat Steps 1 to 4 until all sts have been grafted. Take up any slack in the graft by pulling the yarn gently. Fasten off. Finishing Using a yarn needle, weave in any loose ends on both socks.
Sarah Dennis Sarah lives in Cornwall and works as a knitting and crochet designer. Her designs are influenced by the Cornish coast and she can often be found knitting on a clifftop – weather permitting. Visit her Etsy store for more of her tactile designs. www.cornishknittingco.etsy.com
heLlo little one
PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: KIT CHEUNG AND MATILDA SMITH
Give a tiny arrival a warm welcome with Hannah Cross’ bright crochet stripes
HOW TO MAKE… A BABY BLANKET MATERIALS Q Paintbox Yarns Aran, 100% cotton, 85m/93yd per 50g ball, six balls in Champagne White (603) (Yarn A), two balls each in Midnight Blue (638) (Yarn B) and Mustard Yellow (624) (Yarn C) and one ball in Lipstick Pink (652) (Yarn D) Q 5.5mm (UK 5, US I/9) crochet hook Q Yarn needle TENSION Approx. 13 sts and 12 rows in linen stitch pattern to measure 10cm (4") ABBREVIATIONS st(s) stitch(es) ch chain ss slip stitch 86 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
dc double crochet htr half treble dtr double treble yrh yarn round hook RS right side rep repeat BLO work stitch through back loop only FLO work stitch through front loop only 6dtr-cl 6 double treble cluster – (yrh twice, insert hook in st indicated, yrh, pull up loop, yrh, draw through 2 loops, yrh, draw through 2 loops) 6 times, inserting hook in same st each time, yrh, draw through 7 loops on hook FINISHED SIZE Approx. 80 x 105cm (31½ x 413/8")
New babies are one of the loveliest excuses to get creative, and this blanket is a fab way to say hello to a little one. We love this project’s bold stripes, not to mention the fact it’s easy to make, with a simple linen stitch used throughout. And who could resist that baby-friendly pom pom edging? Follow our colour combination, or switch up the shades to match your décor. Instructions This pattern uses a modified linen stitch, where the htr is worked over the ch-sp in the row below and into either the FLO or BLO of the st on the row below that (i.e. 2 rows below). Ch1 at the beginning of a row does not count as a st. When changing colour, do so on the last step of the st of the previous row so the new colour is
already on your hook when starting the new row. Blanket Foundation ch using Yarn A, ch102 Row 1 (RS) 1htr in 4th ch from hook (3ch missed counts as 1htr, 1ch), *ch1, miss 1 st, 1htr in next st; rep from * to end of row, turn [101 sts] Row 2 ch1, 1htr in 1st st, 1htr over the 1ch-sp and into the ch below in the foundation chain, *ch1, miss 1 st, 1htr over the 1ch-sp and into the foundation chain; rep from * to last st, 1htr in last st, turn Row 3 ch1, 1htr in 1st st, *ch1, miss 1 st, 1htr over the 1ch-sp and into in BLO of the st 2 rows below; rep from * to last 2 sts, ch1, miss 1 st, 1htr in last st, turn Row 4 ch1, 1htr in 1st st, 1htr over the 1ch-sp and into FLO of the st 2 rows below, *ch1, miss 1 st, 1htr over the 1ch-sp and into the FLO of
the st 2 rows below; rep from * to last st, 1htr in last st, turn Rows 3 and 4 form the pattern Repeat Rows 3 and 4 in the following colour sequence, remembering to change colour on the last step of the st of the previous row: Rows 5-12 Yarn A Rows 13-16 Yarn B Rows 17-28 Yarn A Rows 29-32 Yarn B Rows 33-44 Yarn A Rows 45-48 Yarn B Rows 49-60 Yarn A Rows 61-64 Yarn B Rows 65-76 Yarn A Rows 77-80 Yarn B Rows 81-88 Yarn C Rows 89-96 Yarn A Rows 97-104 Yarn C Rows 105-112 Yarn A Rows 113-118 Yarn C Continue for next 2 rows in the Subscribe at molliemakes.com
same colour Row 119 Repeat Row 3 Row 120 ch1, 1htr in 1st st, *1htr over the 1ch-sp and into FLO of the st 2 rows below, 1htr in next st; rep from * to end of row, break yarn and fasten off Edging Work the edging in Yarn D as follows to either short end of the blanket. With RS facing, attach yarn
to top right of blanket Rows 1-3 ch1, 1dc in each st across, turn Row 4 ch1, ss in 1st st, *ss in next st, (ch4, 6dtr-cl, ch4, ss) in next st, ss in each of next 6 sts; rep from * to last 2 sts, (ch4, 6dtr-cl, ch4, ss) in next st, ss in last st Break yarn and fasten off Repeat along the second short edge of blanket, then weave in any loose ends to finish.
Hannah Cross Hannah describes herself as designer, writer, maker, photographer and chief tea maker at HanJan Crochet. With a daytime (and night time) job as a midwife, and a new mum herself, she squeezes crochet into every last spare moment she can. www.hanjancrochet.com
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18 E 0 L 2 SA RY ONNUA JA
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Crochet a pastel sampler scarf
sew a felt fairytale swan
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make a textured rug hooking hoop
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take flight
PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: KIT CHEUNG AND MATILDA SMITH
Be inspired by nature with Emma Mitchell’s delicate clay feather hanging
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HOW TO MAKE… A CLAY FEATHER HANGING MATERIALS Q White air-drying clay (we used Hobbycraft British Airdrying Clay) Q Acrylic paint in white and gold Q Small branch, approx. 40-50cm (15¾-19¾") Q White or clear plasticcoated thread (we used white Beadalon 0.2mm bead thread) Q Twine, 70cm (27 5/8") Q Fine-tipped and medium-tipped paintbrushes Q Baking paper Q Clingfilm Q Craft knife Q Wire cutters Q Small plastic sugarcraft roller Q Rolling pin Q Knitting needle
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Modelled on pheasant and jay feathers, each intricately detailed piece within this decorative hanging is a work of art in itself. The gold-edged plumes make it ideal for the festive season, but also subtle enough to leave displayed all year round. You could even make a few extra shapes at the same time, then hang them from your Christmas tree as individual ornaments. 01 Using the templates on page 98, cut out 12 feather shapes from paper. Place a piece of white clay onto a large square of baking paper and use the sugarcraft roller to roll it 0.5cm (¼") thick. 02 Position the feather templates onto the clay and gently press them into the surface using your fingertips. Use a craft knife to carefully cut around the feathers. Remove the waste clay, reforming it into a ball for your next project. Wrap all of the feathers, apart from one, in cling film and set aside to prevent them from drying out. 03 Use the knitting needle to draw a line along the length of the
feather, following the curve, and finishing it at the point. Use the craft knife to mark the horizontal barbs, cutting them a couple of millimetres deep, and curving the shape to echo that of real feather barbs. Cut away some of the barbs for an imperfect finish. 04 Use the point of the knitting needle to make a small hole for hanging, 1cm (3/8") down from the top. Lay the feather out to dry along the length of a rolling pin covered in baking paper, to achieve a curved shape. Repeat Step 3 for the rest of the feathers, making them in batches if you only have one rolling pin to dry them on. 05 While the feathers are drying, apply a thin layer of white paint to the wooden branch. Leave it to dry,
apply a second coat, then put it to one side to dry thoroughly. 06 Use wire cutters to trim away any excess clay from the feathers for a neat finish. Use a fine-tipped paintbrush to paint the outer edges of each feather in gold, experimenting with the thickness of the borders for different effects. 07 Cut lengths of thread to hang the feathers, tying them through the hole at the top of the feather and then around the branch. Space the hanging feathers evenly along the branch, around 5cm (2") apart, and hang at different lengths in two loose V shapes. 08 Wrap one end of the twine around one end of the branch, tie it securely, then repeat on the other end of the branch to finish.
Emma Mitchell Emma lives in a tiny village on the edge of the Fens and records her daily nature finds on Instagram @silverpebble2. As well as being a designer-maker, she’s also the author of MakingWinter, a creative guide for the winter months, full of crafts and recipes. www.silverpebble.net
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Aztec treasure Get your colour fix with this tapestry crochet cowl by Alessandra Hayden
Changing colour
HOW TO MAKE… A CROCHET COWL MATERIALS Q Malabrigo Twist, 100% baby merino, 137m/150yd per 100g skein; one skein each in Zinc (613) (Yarn A), Damask (130) (Yarn B), Sunset (96) (Yarn C), Azul Profundo (150) (Yarn D), Natural (63) (Yarn E) and Olive (56) (Yarn F) Q 5mm (UK 6, US H/8) crochet hook Q Stitch marker Q Yarn needle TENSION Tension in tapestry crochet will be different than with regular crochet, so it’s important to test your tension before you start. To create a tension 94 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
swatch for a project worked in the round, simply make a swatch working in rows, cutting your yarn at the end of each row and starting again at the beginning of previous row. Approx. 14sts and 12 rounds (rows) in double crochet worked in BLO to measure to 10cm (4") square. ABBREVIATIONS st(s) stitch(es) ch chain ss slip stitch dc double crochet RS right side WS wrong side rep repeat
beg beginning prev previous BLO work stitch through the back loop only FINISHED SIZE 131cm (51½") circumference and 16.5cm (6½") high
For winter walks and last-minute Christmas shopping dashes, you’ve got to have a statement cowl to bundle up in. We’re loving the Aztec-style pattern on this crochet version, and the fact it’s worked in merino wool gives it extra cosy points – plus, it’s long enough to wrap around you twice. The bold geometric shapes are created using tapestry crochet colourwork. If you’ve never tried this technique before, make sure to read the instructions below thoroughly before starting. Instructions Tapestry crochet is a method which uses two or more colours in a pattern to create a multi-coloured fabric, much like Fair Isle in knitting. It’s normally used with dc, as in this design. When working tapestry
CH RT
K Y 19
Yarn A, dc BLO
17
Yarn B, dc BLO
15
Yarn C, dc BLO
13
Yarn D, dc BLO
11
Yarn E, dc BLO
9
Yarn F, dc BLO
7
Pattern repeat
5 3 1 12-st repeat
crochet, you’ll be using two or more colours of yarn on each row, and will need to ‘carry’ the yarn not in use at any one time. This can be done by leaving the unused yarn at the back of the work, or, for a neater finish, by encasing the yarn as you work by working over the unused thread. With this project, you need to encase the yarn, as the back of the work will be seen, and leaving the yarn floating at the back will look untidy. The chart above shows the colour of the stitches, with each square of colour representing a stitch. Reading the chart is simple: read from the bottom up, and from right to left. With this pattern, two colours are used in each round, therefore you only have to carry one colour of yarn at any time. As with all colourwork, you must Subscribe at molliemakes.com
change to a new colour of stitch on the last step of the previous stitch. If the next round requires different colours, then break one or both yarns as needed and join the new colours for the next round. The cowl is worked in continuous rounds. Use a stitch marker to mark the end of each round and move it up as you work. The cowl is worked in dc through the back loop only.
join to form a ring, being careful not to twist the ch Round 1 working in the back loop of the ch, work Row 1 of chart, working 12 st pattern repeat 15 times around, continue working in a spiral [180 dc] Rounds 2-19 work Rows 2-19 of chart in dc in BLO; on the last st of Round 19 ss to join the cowl neatly and fasten off
Cowl Using Yarn A, ch180, ss in 1st ch to
Finishing Weave in any loose ends.
Reader offer This project appears in Modern Tapestry Crochet by Alessandra Hayden (£16.99), published by Interweave, a division of F+W. To buy a copy for just £11.99, including free UK P&P, call 01206 255777 and quote code IM3517. Offer ends 3rd February 2018. www.sewandso.co.uk
87 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 95
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MAKES
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 FREE GIFT
BY AMANDA BRYDE PAGE 7
03
04
05
06
07
08
01 Loosen the screw and separate the rings of the embroidery hoop. Place the inner hoop on a flat surface and lie the fabric on top, positioning the printed pattern centrally. Gently place the outer hoop over the top of the fabric and tighten the screw. Be sure to pull the fabric taut as you tighten it. 02 Use three strands of embroidery thread throughout, unless stated otherwise. For each section, start by knotting the thread at one end to stop it pulling through the fabric. Continue with the stitches. At the end of the thread, or the completed section, either knot off the end on the reverse of
the hoop or sew through a few existing stitches to secure. 03 Start by embroidering the pink flowers – you’ll find a stitch guide for all techniques on page 103. Use coral thread and satin stitch for the centre of the flowers, then pink thread and satin stitch for the outside. Finish the flowers with three straight stitches in pink thread at the centre of each one. 04 Next, fill in the centre of the purple and orange flowers with French knots. Using yellow thread, work a line of French knots along the outline of the flower centres first, wrapping the thread twice around the needle. Fill in the space at the centre,
using the outline as a guide. Using the same thread shade, and the image as a guide, add French knots to the dots around the main design. 05 Add the orange flowers using satin stitch and orange thread, starting at the outside of the orange flower, and stitching in towards the centre. Next, add the purple flowers using satin stitch and purple thread. 06 Now the main flowers have been finished, move onto the leaves. Using teal thread and satin stitch, start at the highest point of the leaf, in the centre, and stitch down. Continue satin stitching either to the left or to the right, then finish the
opposite side. Do this for each of the leaves. To finish the leaves, add a single long straight stitch up the centre of each one. 07 Using green thread and backstitch, add on the stems of the green branches. Once these have been completed, fill in the leaves on each branch using the same thread and satin stitch. 08 Using blue thread and backstitch, add on the stems of the blue branches. Use longer backstitches than those on the green branches to create a different texture. Use blue thread and French knots to add detail at the end of each branch, wrapping the thread around the needle twice as before.
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 87
MAKES
FEATHER HANGING BY EMMA MITCHELL PAGE 89
Cut 1 Cut 5
Cut 4
Cut 2
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.
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87 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 99
MAKES
LLAMA APRON
BY ANNA ALICIA PAGE 62
Photocopy at 200%
Join together here
Apron front Cut 2
FIND FULL SIZE TEMPLATES ON molliemakes.com
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.
100 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
MAKES
DIAMOND PIÑATA
BY KATE JENKINS PAGE 76
Hexagon Cut 1
Slits for hanging loop
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.
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87 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 101
MAKES
DIAMOND PIÑATA
BY KATE JENKINS PAGE 76
Photocopy at 200%
Trapezoid Cut 6
Triangle Cut 6
FIND FULL SIZE TEMPLATES ON molliemakes.com
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.
102 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
MAKES
CONSTELL CUSHION BY CHRISSIE AS PAGE 16
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.
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87 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 103
MAKES
STITCH GUIDE
USE OUR HANDY STITCH GUIDE FOR THE EMBROIDERY PROJECTS IN THIS ISSUE
02
01
01
02
03
04
03 01
02
01
BACKSTITCH This stitch is ideal for outlines, and it’s the one you’ll find you use the most. Come up from the back at point 1, then go down at point 2. Come up at point 3, then go back to point 1 and bring the needle through to the back.
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.
02 01 04
02
01
03
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.
STRAIGHT STITCH The simplest of stitches, straight stitch can be grouped together or used alone. Come up at point 1, then go down at point 2. Repeat. CROSS STITCH The cross stitch can be used in any kind of embroidery, and can even be rotated to make a ‘t’. Come up at point 1, then go down at point 2. Come up at point 3, then go down at point 4, crossing the first part of the stitch. To make a row of cross stitches, make a line of the first part of the stitch, then go back and make the second part of the stitch. Be sure all of the stitches cross the same way.
FIND THE FULL STITCH LIBRARY ON molliemakes.com
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 87
To feature in the Marketplace contact Jordana Widt (0117 300 8539, jordana.widt@immediate.co.uk) or Chris Gibson (0117 300 8109, chris.gibson@immediate.co.uk)
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07771 243976 Small family run business; stockist of favourite names including Patons, Rowan, Cygnet Yarns, Anchor, Free Spirit Fabrics, Tilly and the Buttons, Dylon. Visit our Facebook and Instagram for more information. facebook.com/houseofhabyworcester HANDMADE CLOTHES
NELLIES Nellies quality handmade children’s clothes and crafts. Lovingly crafted beautiful dresses, dungarees and more with hint of vintage. To find out more visit: www.lovenelliesshop.co.uk
CRAFT SUPPLIES
GLITTER PAPER SCISSORS 07880 315 816 Glitter Paper Scissors is an online indie craft shop offering beautiful handpicked on-trend craft supplies. Scheepjes yarns & kits. All beautifully packaged and sent to you with care. www.glitterpaperscissors.co.uk
To feature in the Marketplace please contact either: Jordana Widt:
Chris Gibson:
0117 300 8539
0117 300 8109
jordana.widt@immediate.co.uk
chris.gibson@immediate.co.uk
Fabric shop owner Fuz Chowdhury shares her plans for 2018
Name: Fuz Chowdhury Occupation: Sewist and online fabric shop owner
Hi, I’m Fuz and I run Cloth&Candy. I’m a mega fabric hoarder so this job is a dream come true, as I get to buy awesome fabrics for a living. January sees Cloth&Candy’s third birthday and I’m so chuffed and incredibly grateful to be at this stage. Juggling life with a ‘helpful’ toddler and growing the business has been such an amazing journey and I’m super-excited for what’s to come. There are so many new fabrics on the cards. I look for modern, striking designs and I’ve got to absolutely love it for it to land in the shop. I
Rif le Paper Co. x Cotton+Steel fabric has been a bestseller
this job is a dream come true, as i get to buy awesome fabrics for a living Fuz is always inspired by her customers’ fab fabric combos
love a giggle too, so you’ll find fun prints like crazy-cute unicorns, squirrels with neon pink cheeks and bears in gold party hats. I mean, obviously necessary in life, right? And for all of these new products, I’ll be needing a new workspace – yay, room for more fabric! For now, Cloth&Candy is online, but I frequently pop up at sewing fairs through the year. You’ll see me at my fave, The Handmade Fair, in September. Happy new year, fabric addicts!
Fuz and her little helper make quite the team
Currents Visit Fuz’s website at www.clothandcandy.co.uk to discover more of her favourite prints and see what’s new in the shop. And, keep updated via her Instagram @clothandcandy.
Next issue: Coco & Wolf on their love for Liberty fabric 106 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 87
Watching: The Stranger Things series. OK, you got me – it’s mostly Peppa Pig with the toddler. Drinking: Far too much iced mocha, even in winter. Reading: Girlboss by Sophia Amoruso and getting so inspired. I love her energy!
prym.ergonomics The new generation of knitting needles – light, flexible, perfectly structured.
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Click heads for clipping the pair of needles together and as stitch stoppers
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