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Tour Donna Wilsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creative home PAGE 46 8 prints TO CUT & COLLAGE

MAKE IT!

EASY-KNIT

BABY BLANKET

COLOURFUL CROCHET MANDALAS

PRESSED FLOWER EASTER BAUBLES

&more..

Spring blooms

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE ¤ POM POM FLORAL BANNER ¤ FRINGED MINI SKIRT ¤ CROCHET BRUNCH POTHOLDERS ¤ EASY-SEW WASH BAG ¤ KIDS’ BUNNY BLANKET ¤ PAINTED EASTER BAUBLES

MAIN IMAGE PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: HELENA STEELE AND MATILDA SMITH

FLORAL BANNER

ON THE COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: HELENA STEELE & MATILDA SMITH; MODEL: FRANCISKA BODNAR

CONTENTS

issue number ninety

Crochet potholders

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, new season buys for your home

14 TRENDS Get in on the Miami Memphis trend

46 HOME TOUR

18 FLORAL BANNER

Take a peek inside knit and homeware designer Donna Wilson’s characterful pad

Welcome spring with a wall hanging bursting with felt, pom poms and tassels

51 ARM KNIT CUSHION Go big with a super-chunky bolster

26 TEA AND A CHAT Meet kidswear maven Kirsty Hartley

55 TERRAZZO COASTERS Update your table with an easy clay project

31 EASTER EGGS

Talk to us! facebook.com/MollieMakes

pinterest.com/MollieMakes

4 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

@MollieMakes

MollieMakes

youtube.com/user/MollieMakes

58 POTHOLDER TRIO

Get creative and decorate ornaments with pressed and painted flowers

Crochet quirky breakfast potholders

34 GOOD READ

63 WASH BAG

New ways to get colour into your life

A Japanese-inspired sew for the weekend

36 FRINGED SKIRT

67 PULL-OUT PAPERS

Sew this swish-worthy mini skirt in pastel pink, and channel 60s vibes

Eight gorgeous flora and fauna-filled posters designed by Bethan Janine

31 NEVER MISS AN ISSUE

Embellished glass baubles

24 Subscribe UK

Get a set of RICE cups worth £30 and save 25% when you subscribe to Mollie Makes

80 Subscribe overseas International subscribers save up to 78%

EASTER TREATS

Fringed skirt

One of the most exciting things about working on Mollie is seeing the new-issue projects arrive, and this month especially has been a real treat. From Lucy Davidson’s floral banner on the cover, packed with texture and colour, to Becki Clark’s natureinspired Easter baubles on page 31, we’ve got goodies of all shapes and sizes for you. As it’s our bumper Spring issue, you’ll also find two amazing gifts inside. Embroider the cutest bunny, designed by Kiriki Press, then get your new season fix with our Boho Botanicals booklet, filled with ways to craft this latest homestyle trend. And, talking of homes, check out Donna Wilson’s pad on page 46 – it’s a handmade dream come true.

92 d blanket

LOVING Treats and treasures to fall in love with

Yvette Streeter Acting Editor

75 LOVING Beautiful things to adore and make

76 SLOTH PYJAMAS Sew cute printed PJs for little ones

81 CROCHET MANDALAS Three colourful doily designs to hook

Terrazzo coasters

84 GOOD READ Joanne Hawker on celebrating handmade

87 TASTY DOUGHNUTS Make sweet-filled piñata-inspired treats

Easy-sew wash bag

92 BABY BLANKET Knit an adorable bunny blanket

97 TEMPLATES All you need for this issue’s makes

106 BACK PAGE PROJECT Rebecca Denton on preloved fabric Subscribe at molliemakes.com

Turn the page for more on your bonus gift! Then Turn to page 67 for your papers

Contributors

Bethan Janine Bethan’s an illustrator and fabric designer based in Sheffield. Birds, beasts and colourful geometric patterns are her jam, and on any given day you’ll find her happily scribbling new ideas in her trusty sketchbook. Find Bethan’s pretty papers on page 67. www.bethanjanine.com

Donna Wilson Designer Donna grew up on her parents’ farm in the Aberdeenshire countryside. She’s best known now for her knitted creatures and distinctive homewares, but it all started with twig sculptures and mud pies as a child. Take a tour of Donna’s home on page 46. www.donnawilson.com

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

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 Production Coordinator Lily Owens-Crossman

LICENSING

Director of International Licensing and Syndication Tim Hudson tim.hudson@immediate.co.uk

Emma Wright In her spare time, knitting and crochet designer Emma channels her creative flare into her love of baking. She adores making desserts and is famed for her lemon and poppy seed cake at family gatherings. Knit Emma’s bunny blanket on page 92. www.emmaknitted.co.uk

Jacqueline Colley Jacqueline left high street fashion to pursue a career in drawing. She spends her spare time at car boots and junk shops, and is an avid collector of printed ephemera and novelty objects, with a soft spot for Hawaiian shirts. See Jacqueline’s illustration on page 34. www.jacquelinecolley.co.uk

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.

Kirsty Hartley Kirsty’s a mum of three wild things and runs her own vibrant British childrenswear brand. She works from her colourful studio in Lancashire and has a penchant for rainbows, cheery retro prints and pom pom trims. Read Kirsty’s creative journey on page 26. www.wildthingsdresses.com

Lucy Davidson Mortal enemy of the moth, Lucy is a woolbased weaver with a love of playful colours and textures. Born without a sense of smell, she believes her sense of complementary colours has been heightened to compensate. Make Lucy’s pom pom banner on page 18. www.peasandneedles.co.uk

Other contributors Anna Alicia, Jessica Bateman,Valerie Bracegirdle, Franciska Bodnar @ Mustard Models, Elisalex de Castro Peake, Dave Caudery, Becki Clark, Hannah Cross, Rebecca Denton, Karen Dunn, Sophie Gibbons, Michelle Galletta, Nicky Gotobed,Vicky Graham, Annemarie Huijser, Hester van Overbeek, Riannon Selcuk,Will Shaddock, Rachael Smith, Philip Sowels, Lottie Storey, Lara Watson, Eilidh Weir

6 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

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!

Spring bunny kit

THIS GIFT COMES WITH THE PRINT COPY OF THE MAGAZINE ONLY. ALTERNATIVE GIFT ON SOME OVERSEAS COPIES. PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: HELENA STEELE AND MATILDA SMITH

Up your embroidery game with Michelle Galletta’s cute rabbit plushie

Follow the white rabbit… “I loved designing Lucky Bear for issue 50, so I was thrilled when Mollie Makes asked me to make a bunny this time around! I thought a bunny would deﬁnitely be holding a basket of carrots. If you’re like me and love to cook, how wonderful is it to roast a delicious pan of purple, orange and yellow heirloom carrots? While I wish a bunny would pick some carrots from her garden and deliver them to my doorstep, the next best thing might be

to take an afternoon and have fun with satin stitches, French knots and laid work. Spring Bunny can be an addition to an Easter basket, or if you put some lavender in with the stuffing, she could live in a clothes drawer.” Michelle is the owner of Kiriki Press, an embroidery kit business run from her Toronto studio, Noble Crafthouse. www.kirikipress.com Turn to page 97 for instructions on making your bunny, then share using #molliemakers.

INTRODUCING..

THE LATEST IN CREATIVE GOODNESS – HANDPICKED JUST FOR YOU

PHOTOGRAPHY: ASHLEY JENNETT; STYLIST: SHARON WILLIAMS; MODEL: LEAH BRADLEY

Satisfy your cravings for lazy days and laid-back living with The Bee and The Fox’s Always Mañana T-shirt. With embroidered detailing, lightweight cotton fabric and a nod to Jack Kerouac, all we need now is a dose of sunshine. www.thebeeandthefox.com

Subscribe at molliemakes.com

90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 9

TOP READ Comfort first

No-iron-required, casual boho chic will always hold a special place in our hearts. Pack this twicewashed linen Vienna top for a city break, then wear for an afternoon of people watching outside a café. www. notperfectlinen.etsy.com

In dressmaker extraordinaire Tilly Walnes’ new book, Stretch, the focus is on making comfortable everyday clothes in knit fabrics. From casual T-shirts to sequin dresses, there’s nothing stopping you from starting your ‘me made’ wardrobe and spending all of your days rocking jersey. www.hardiegrant.com

Inspired by West African design, these super-soft jacquard throws from Oliver Bonas play with scale and colour. Snap them up while you can. www.oliverbonas.com

Treat your plant babies right with a handmade ceramic pot by Sophie Jarram. With angular detailing and bold painterly splashes, each one is unique, just like your leafy little friends. www.sophiejarram.co.uk 12 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

Take note – Noi Publishing’s new lined notebooks feature a riot of colour, and designs that are guaranteed to make you smile. This pack of hounds living their best lives is probably our favourite. www.noipublishing.com

INTRODUCING trends

THIS MONTH WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE OBSESSING ABOUT...

Throwback to the 80s with playful geometry and retro influences

Channel the vibes with sprinkles, squiggles and pastel brights. www. muralswallpaper.com

14 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

INTRODUCING trends 03

PHOTOGRAPHY: PIPI AMUCHASTEGUI; MAKE UP & HAIR: PATRICIA MULLEN; MODEL: ANNA KORS

Shape up in covetable

Perspex pretties. www. noworneverjewelry.com 02

Get the look with

nostalgic hotline bling. www.shopspring.com 03

Would it be wrong to

plan a whole party around a plate? Asking for a friend. www. bashpartygoods.com 04

Throwback, throw

pillow – it makes sense. www.society6.com

Insta-worthy terrazzo

style for your tootsies. www.zuluzion.com 06

The squiggly, sparkly

earrings of your wildest electric dreams. www. yippywhippy.com 07

Sew the trend with

Cotton + Steel’s Snap to Grid collection. www. thefabricfox.co.uk 08

Sip it, Memphis style.

www.rolfeandwills.com

06 05

MAKE IT! TURN THE PAGE TO 07

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DIY THE MIAMI MEMPHIS TREND 90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 15

INTRODUCING trends

MAKE IT!

STYLED PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: HELENA

STEELE AND MATILDA SMITH

MEMPHIS EARRING BOARD

MATERIALS Q Plywood, 0.4cm (3/16") thick Q Whitewood, 25 x 4.5 x 1.5cm (97/8 x 17/8 x 5/8") Q Furniture paint in white, teal, mustard yellow and black Q Black marker pen Q Plastic stencil sheet Q Craft knife Q Cutting mat Q Handsaw Q Sandpaper Q Drill Q Drill bit, 0.25cm (1/8") Q Masking tape Q Paint brushes Q Plain paper

16 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

01 Using the handsaw, cut the plywood to a 20 x 20cm (77/8 x 77/8") square. Sand the edges smooth with sandpaper. 02 Cut a 20 x 20cm (77/8 x 77/8") piece of plain paper. Using a ruler, create a grid of squares on the paper by drawing parallel lines every 2cm (¾"). 03 Stick the grid to the plywood with masking tape, then drill a hole at every point where the lines cross, as shown. 04 Paint the front, back and sides of the plywood board with white paint and leave to dry. Apply a second coat, and then a third if necessary. Leave to dry. 05 Using the template on page 97 and a pen, trace the

patterned template onto the plastic stencil sheet. 06 Using the craft knife and cutting board, and the main image for reference, cut the black and teal shapes out of the stencil sheet template, then cut the stencil sheet to the same size as the plywood board. 07 Tape the stencil sheet to the plywood board and paint in the blue and black shapes. Leave the paint to dry and then apply a second coat if necessary. 08 Remove the stencil sheet and paint in the yellow block on the board. Once the paint is dry, use a black marker pen and a ruler to draw on the edges and the lines around the coloured shapes.

09 To make the stand, take the piece of whitewood and sand the edges smooth. Cut a groove along the centre of the length with the handsaw, roughly 0.5cm (¼") wide and 0.5cm (¼") deep. Paint the stand white, taking care to coat the inside of the groove. Once dry, slide the earring board into the groove in the stand.

Interiors blogger Hester van Overbeek ﬁlms DIY and craft videos in her Ramsgate studio. She also writes craft books – her latest, Made with Salvaged Wood, is out now. Find Hester sharing her latest DIYs on Instagram @byhestergrams. www.hestershandmadehome.com

A handpicked collection of fabrics delivered to your door

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Ingredients from us, handmade by you. Find all of the ingredients and a full recipe at www.thesoapkitchen.co.uk

Spring in bloom Celebrate the new season with the prettiest floral display â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Lucy Davidson shows you how

PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: HELENA STEELE AND MATILDA SMITH

HOW TO MAKE… A FLORAL BANNER MATERIALS Q Cream fabric, 44 x 26cm (173/8 x 10¼") Q Yarn in pink, mustard, light green, dark green and white Q Felt in pink, green, grey and mustard Q Coral fabric tape, 20cm (77/8") Q Rope, 155cm (611/8") Q Pom pom maker, 5cm (2") diameter Q Glue gun Q Sewing needle Q Matching sewing thread Q Florist’s wire Q Dowel, 19cm (7½") Q Card, 7 x 10cm (2¾ x 4") 20 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

Forget floral wreaths – this season we’re all about the banners. Lucy’s fabric, felt and yarn extravaganza will add instant texture and interest to any wall in your home, plus it’s an easy way to spread those spring feels. We love how simple the design is to adapt, too. Opt for a subtle palette in muted colours like our version, go for pastel brights to really zing up a plain space, or even enlarge the banner template to make yourself a super-size version. 01 Fold the fabric in half along the length with right sides (RS) together. Using the template on page 97, pin the banner shape to

the fabric and cut around it. Pin together the two banner pieces, keeping them RS together. 02 Cut the length of fabric tape in half, then fold each piece in half again, aligning the raw edges. Pin them in between the two banner pieces along the top short edge, 2cm (¾") in from either long edge, with the raw edges of the tape overhanging at the top slightly. 03 Sew around the banner using a 0.5cm (¼") seam allowance, leaving a 5cm (2") gap for turning. Turn RS out, sew the gap closed, then thread the length of dowel through both of the fabric tape tabs. 04 To make a tassel, wrap pink yarn around the width of the card

several times to create a small bundle, as shown. Cut a length of yarn and loop it under one end of the bundle, then tie to secure. Cut the yarn bundle at the opposite end and remove the piece of card, then tie another length of yarn around the top of the tassel, roughly 2cm (¾") down, to finish. 05 Repeat Step 4 to make nine tassels in total, then sew a tassel onto the bottom point of the banner, and both bottom corners. Sew on the remaining tassels evenly in between. 06 To make a pom pom, wrap yarn around one half of a pom pom maker until full, then repeat on the other half. Close the two halves

shut. Cut around the outside of the pom pom maker, between the two grooves, then tie a length of yarn around the centre. Double knot to secure, then open the pom pom maker and remove the pom pom. Trim to neaten, then repeat to make a selection of pom poms – we made two in white yarn, three in pink yarn, three in mustard yarn, two in dark green yarn, three in light green yarn and one in grey yarn. Put to one side. 07 Cut three 35cm (13¾") lengths of rope, then tape the ends to a table or flat surface, as shown. Plait together, then tie off either end with sewing thread and trim to neaten. Put to one side.

08 Using the template on page 97, cut six small leaf shapes from the green felt. Cut a 10cm (4") length of florist’s wire and, using the glue gun, glue the leaves to the top of wire, referring to the image as a guide. Repeat another three times to make four sprigs of leaves. 09 To make a felt flower, cut a 12 x 5cm (4¾ x 2") piece of felt. Fold in half along the length, then glue the long edges together using the glue gun. Starting at one short edge, use scissors to snip into the folded edge, finishing the cuts 1cm (3/8") from the glued edge. Work along the length of the felt, spacing the cuts roughly 0.5cm (¼") apart, to create a row of fringing. Roll the

90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 21

HOW TO MAKE… A FLORAL BANNER felt up along the length, securing it along the uncut edge with the glue gun as you go. Repeat to make a selection of flowers – we made four pink flowers and two grey flowers. 10 To make the main flower, cut a 7 x 14cm (2¾ x 5½") rectangle and a 5cm (2") diameter circle from the mustard felt. Using the templates on page 97, cut four large leaves from the green felt, and eight petals from the pink felt. 11 Take the circle of mustard felt and glue it into a ball. Repeat Step 9 using the 7 x 14cm (2¾ x 5½") piece of mustard felt, this time gluing the cut strip of felt around the ball, to give the flower a centre. 22 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

12 Glue the petals around the outside of the mustard felt flower, slightly overlapping them as you work your way around. Glue the leaves to the base of the flower, then put to one side to dry. 13 Once dry, lay the main flower and all of the leaf sprigs onto the banner, either using the image as a guide, or choosing your own placement for them. Once you’re completely happy with the positioning, glue them in place. 14 Next, sew the plaited rope in place on the banner, attaching one end underneath the main flower, and one end slightly lower on the left-hand side, so it hangs down.

15 Position the flowers onto the banner, using the main image as a guide, or choosing your own placement. Once you’re completely happy with the positioning, glue the felt flowers in place. 16 Finally, position the pom poms onto the banner, grouping the majority diagonally from the bottom left corner to the top right, and adding a couple at the top left and bottom right corners. If there are any gaps, glue a few extra felt leaves in between the pom poms and flowers to fill. 17 Tie the remaining length of rope to either end of the dowel, then use it to hang the banner up.

Lucy Davidson Brighton-based creative lass Lucy spends her days playing with colour and texture, creating beautiful weaves and decorative wonders.When she isn’t crafting, Lucy’s teaching others how to, passing on her weaving and macramé skills in workshops across the UK. www.peasandneedles.co.uk

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Trusting your gut with...

KIRSTY HARTLEY

The imaginative designer behind Wild Things Dresses is always pushing forward, while remaining true to her brand and herself

Words: LARA WATSON Photographs: WILL SHADDOCK

Kirsty Hartley started Wild Things Dresses while on maternity leave with her third child. Rather than go back to lecturing at Manchester School of Art, she wanted to invest in something that would ﬁt around her life in the Lancashire hills, and her kids, Ewan, Silva, and Lila. So, she made a batch of ten dresses and set up an Etsy shop. Six weeks later, she got her ﬁrst big order. With customers including Charlotte Church and Lily Allen, Kirsty’s bold, playful designs were an instant hit, and she’s since opened her own website and 26 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

a shopfront on Not on the High Street. Although she’s had the opportunity to take the brand further, Kirsty’s chosen to keep it small, special, and UK-made. “I don’t want the enjoyment to go,” she explains. “It’s about having choice and a creative lifestyle. If I’m not creating, I feel like my wings have been clipped.” It’s this passion for authenticity, crafting for pleasure and following her intuition that makes Kirsty so inspiring. We chatted to her at her home, where she works and lives with her wild things and two dogs, Willow and Sunny.

Describe your style in a few words. For the brand, it’s very vibrant, eclectic, happy, but also simple. I don’t like fuss, I dress very simply. Interior-wise, it’s simple and Scandi in style, but a bit more rustic – I like things that come from outdoors, so wooden ﬂoors and tabletops, roughly cut wooden stools, lots of grey, blue and white. Why is play so important to your work? I worked in fashion as a freelancer before lecturing, and it was all very mainstream. It was about embellishing garments to add perceived value. I wanted my own designs to be simpler. Adult fashion trends tend to drop down to kids, but I wanted mine to be timeless, based on styles from the 60s and 70s. I wanted to put kids in vibrant colour rather than seasonal palettes. Everything I do for children is vibrant but wearable. It’s simple and fun. For me, it’s practicality; for the kids, play. I like putting kids in clothes they can relate to, that they don’t feel too conscious about wearing. I’m inspired by a lot of kids’ illustration, appliqué and prints. When I started there was nothing else like it, I was making a statement. Now it’s caught on and bigger brands have been inﬂuenced by it, but that’s the nature of this business.

INTRODUCING tea & a chat

“Everything I do for children is vibrant but wearable. It’s simple and fun.”

Has that been your biggest hurdle? It’s hard to keep on top of Intellectual Property issues, and to have to completely reinvent yourself again and again because of it, just to stay ahead of the curve. When you’ve hit on an idea that’s working and people are copying you at a higher level, you have to run faster. That is a pressure. It’s a good job I like experimenting! What’s been the greatest challenge? I think for many small businesses, it’s having to make changes quickly to fulﬁl Subscribe at molliemakes.com

your ﬁrst big orders. Near the beginning, I got 50 orders overnight and thought: “How am I going to do this?” I had three makers locally who helped me, but I was spending all my evenings on the road taking stuff to them. So I found a small workshop in Scotland who now make a lot for me and it’s much more manageable. Maintaining that level of production is the hardest part. I’m still making quite a bit myself because I enjoy it. Anything custom-made, I do. Today for instance, I’m making memory quilts. It used to be

Things Funky Little

Kirsty loves to

scale up the detail

Clothes to Sew. 02

in her children’s

The vibrancy of

designs – you can

digital print keeps

find the pattern

it simple and bold. 03

for this quirky

Sewing threads

flower collar dress

– Kirsty works with

in her book Wild

the whole rainbow.

90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 27

INTRODUCING tea & a chat

friends, friends’ daughters, people used to come over and help – all hands on deck! I outsource to Linda in Scotland because I don’t want to be managing a workshop. I enjoy making and designing and the job is ﬂexible enough that I can work around the children. It suits my lifestyle and it gives me more headspace.

01 02 01

Kirsty cuts out

some new designs. 02

Colourful dress-up

capes make happy little people. 03

How did you learn and hone your craft? When I was growing up, I was very much a play-outside or stay-in-and-make kid. It was all about what you could do without a lot of money. My mum sewed, my grandma sewed, and I always made gifts for people. One of the ﬁrst things I made was a pair of baggy trousers in the 80s! I got a sewing machine at 11 and used it a lot. I’m a perfectionist so I’d always be determined to get things ﬁnished correctly. I started to sew for friends at school, and then a shop in town when I was 15. By the time I did my degree I could sew really well.

Peer under the

pom pom box and you’ll see a collection of Mollie Makes’ from the archive.

28 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

Are there any tools or materials you couldn’t live without? My industrial sewing machine. It’s a Brother Exedra – an old, reconditioned factory closure machine. I’m also very, very particular about my scissors! I like to support British industry and I use Ernest Wright and Sons scissors – they’re Sheffield-based. I do a lot of work on Photoshop so I’m very reliant on computer

INTRODUCING tea & a chat

“My mum sewed, my grandma sewed, and I always made gifts for people.”

processes for my work too. I do some hand drawing but it’s mostly digitally created. Describe a typical working day. I start with Instagram and do some social media posting. Once I’ve got the kids off to school, I walk the dogs. That’s my thinking time to get my head straight. At home I work on orders and answer messages – that goes on into the evening. I prioritise the functional things like dispatching orders and managing the business for the ﬁrst two or three hours. Then, I’m creating Subscribe at molliemakes.com

something new. I tend to work until 5.30pm and sometimes I pick it up again at 9pm if I’m busy, but I try not to. With three kids it’s quite tiring! I split my day between managing, making, developing and marketing. Occasionally I shut myself off from anything digital.

match a funky little

Kirsty works

under direct light in

dress design. 03

her home studio,

“Working with

with a dreamy view

the right tools is so

of the hills.

important,” says

One of Kirsty’s

cute doll kits to

Kirsty of her old Brother Exedra.

What are you working on now? I’m playing with shapes and pocket ideas where the pocket is on a character’s face. I’m also integrating more print into my designs. There’s a printer I work with who 90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 29

INTRODUCING tea & a chat

can mock things up quickly for me so I can play around more. I tend to print what I need but add some experimental stuff onto the order too. I like the idea of prints being engineered to the shape of the garment.

“This Vitra Uten

Silo organiser is a 60s classic. It’s so handy for collecting tools and inspiration.” 02

All Kirsty’s

reference and self-penned books sit together in the studio.

30 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

Kirsty Hartley Designer and business owner Kirsty founded Wild Things Dresses in 2011, a range of children’s clothing and accessories, sewing kits and toys. She’s also the author of two craft books – Wild Things Funky Little Clothes to Sew and Wild Things to Make, and is based in Lancashire. www.wildthingsdresses.com

Do you have a dream project? I’ve just done a collaboration I’d always wanted to do, with Frugi. They had the right ethics for me. I’d like to develop more printed style and move it into womenswear. I’d also like to develop a range with a mainstream fabric supplier – something I’ve got in the pipeline. I’d love to be a recognised brand for designs and fabric. Finally, what’s the best creative advice you’ve been given? To keep things simple. It has to be achievable, but then if we’re not dreamers, it isn’t going to happen either, so follow your dreams! In the 90s I got offered a place at the Royal College, but I turned it down to continue with my own thing. Always be driven by your gut. If it doesn’t feel right, it won’t be. When I did Wild Things, it just happened. If I’d had more experience, I probably wouldn’t have done it! So you need to be cautious but adventurous. And don’t compare yourself to others – social media can be strange that way. Just keep doing your own thing.

Floral fix

PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: HELENA STEELE AND MATILDA SMITH

Paint and press flowers for Easter ornaments â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Becki Clark shows you how

90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 31

pressed flower baubles

HOW TO MAKE… GLASS EASTER BAUBLES MATERIALS Q Egg-shaped glass baubles (ours were from www.amazon. co.uk) Q Small flowers Q PVA glue Q Paintbrush Q Selection of paint pens (we used POSCA Marker Pens) Q Ribbon Q Blotting paper

Anyone else suddenly seized by the urge to faff about with flowers now spring is here? These delicate egg-shaped trinkets will put you through your flowerpressing and glass-painting paces, and provide ample opportunity for gratuitous petal play. Whichever technique you go for, your fancy glass baubles will make pretty Easter gifts if that’s your thing, or sweet botanical decorations to jolly up your pad. Pressed flower baubles 01 Gather a selection of flowers ready to press. It’s best to choose flowers that are quite flat in shape, as these will have a better result when pressed. We used primroses

32 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

and violas, as these flower heads are a good size for the baubles and also have a variety of colours running through the petals, which creates a nice effect when pressed. 02 Place the flowers on a sheet of blotting paper spaced well apart. Place another sheet of blotting paper on top, so the flowers are sandwiched between the two, and press down. Use a book to add some weight to make sure the flowers are fully pressed down. 03 Next, remove the book and press an iron on each section of the blotting paper for 10 seconds. Don’t move the iron on the paper, as the flowers are delicate and will drag – simply press the iron down, then move until all areas of the

paper have been covered. You’ll notice watermarks on the paper – this is just moisture from the flowers. Carefully remove the top layer of the blotting paper. 04 Paint PVA glue all over the bauble, then place the pressed flowers onto it. Once you’re happy with the positioning of the patterns you’ve created, press the flowers down and paint over them carefully with another layer of PVA glue to secure in place. Leave to dry. Painted flower baubles We’ve created three decorative floral motifs, however this project is ideal for experimenting with your own designs. You may find it helpful to imagine the flowers

painted flower baubles

as shapes and marks rather than visualising the final design. Using a series of shapes, create the following motifs, then paint as repeat patterns across the baubles, or as large individual motifs. Turn to page 97 for more ideas. Foliage 05 To create simple foliage shapes, use a paint pen to draw a curved line, then add on oval shapes for leaves, as shown. 06 For detail, add fine lines on the leaves in a contrasting colour. Big blooms 07 Large florals can easily be made with circles and lines. Firstly, use a pen to paint a large circle and Subscribe at molliemakes.com

partially fill it in, leaving a smaller blank circle in the middle. 08 Draw foliage as per Steps 5-6. 09 Fill in the smaller circle with another colour, then add smaller flowers around the bloom. Smaller flowers 10 Using a paint pen, draw fivepoint flowers around the bauble.

11 Add lines onto the petals in a darker colour to create depth. 12 Using a third colour, draw a dot in the middle of each flower to create a simple ditsy floral.

Finishing Once all the baubles have dried, tie a length of ribbon to the top of each one for hanging.

Becki Clark Becki is a designer and illustrator who specialises in hand-drawn typography and surface design. She also runs Olive and Bramble, a wedding stationery company inspired by nature, with her studio assistant Reggie the dachshund. www.oliveandbramble.com

90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 33

ILLUSTRATION: JACQUELINE COLLEY

INTRODUCING good read

COLOUR YOUR CREATIVITY

Embrace spring’s emerging colours – from bold brights to pretty pastels – to inspire your makes, create connections and boost your mood Words: KAREN DUNN Illustration: JACQUELINE COLLEY

ave you ever considered how a passion for colour could connect you to other makers with a love for a particular palette? Or how it has the power to give your craft projects a new lease of life? With the season’s change, there’s no better time to refresh your creative colour palette and try out some new tones, especially since adding more colour into our lives can have a signiﬁcant impact on how we feel – think wearing a vibrant cardigan to give you a lift on a drab day. And, even for those fond of muted tones, it’s easy to take the leap to living more colourfully.

BRIGHTEN UP

Whether you wear your love of colour or decorate your home with it, surrounding yourself with shades that inspire you is an instant way to improve your mood. Leona Baker, owner of Lucky Dip Club (www. luckydipclub.com), creates subscription boxes so you can get a monthly dose of colour through the post. Leona says surrounding herself with sunny shades while she works keeps her inspired. “My home office, affectionately dubbed The Rainbow Room, is my creative sanctuary,” explains Leona. “I feel inspired the moment I walk in. I’ve divided the walls into different project spaces for patches, piñatas and jewellery to encourage me to ﬁll them with colourful fun.” Leona also advocates adding rainbow hues to your wardrobe. “I’ve always dressed colourfully, and recently dyed my hair a peachy pink to add to the bright vibe. It’s a big part of my identity which, as I get older, I don’t want to lose.” New York-based lifestyle blogger Sam Ushiro (www. awwsam.com) agrees. “For me, living colourfully is living authentically. Not only does it allow me to express my mood through colour – like pink and yellow on days I’m excited or happy – but it also makes me stand out in a crowd.” Colour can also help you make connections with others. Toni Bee (www.tonibee.com) began hosting colour walks around the UK last year as a way to get crafters to connect while soaking up the shades each city has to offer. Since the ﬁrst walk, the

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online community In Colourful Company (www. incolourfulcompany.com) has grown, connecting colourloving ladies all around the world. “I think one of the hardest parts of meeting new people is getting the conversation started,” Toni observes. “So, basing our walks around colour gives our community not only a conversation piece, but something they can do together. I love watching as our group has fun making silly Boomerangs. Most of the time this is with someone they’ve never met before and suddenly they’re making memories together.” Nervous about putting yourself out there? Meet other colour-inspired makers on social media via photo challenges, craft swaps and by using hashtags. “Seeking out colourful people on Instagram is how I’ve met some of my closest friends!” says Sam. “Everywhere I travel, I meet makers who love colour as much as I do, or who want to incorporate more into their work.”

CRAFT COLOURFULLY

Bringing new colour to your crafts could be as simple as adding a bright trim or picking a palette based on your favourite illustration. And, sometimes the project itself can lead the way when it comes to colour. “I started dyeing yarn so I could be more involved in my makes. Often I knew what I wanted the end project to look like, but didn’t have the right shade,” explains Daisy Forster of Devon Sun Yarns (www.devonsunyarns. co.uk). “The inspiration comes from what’s happening on the yarn as it’s dyed. It’s a ﬂuid process that evolves throughout the making. If I’m stuck I look outside – nature always gets colour right!” Leona suggests sharing your ideas to see which colour combos are the biggest hits. “Post them on your social media – it’s interesting to see what other people think of the same design in different colourways.” While we all have favourite shades, the fun comes from exploring original combinations. Leona can spend hours trawling through her Pantone swatch book, “trying my hardest not to choose my go-to colours!” There’s a whole world of hues out there, so break out your colour comfort zone and get inspired.

90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 35

PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: HELENA STEELE AND MATILDA SMITH; MODEL: FRANCISKA BODNAR

twIst aNd shouT Channel carefree 60s vibes with Elisalex de Castro Peakeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fringed skirt

90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 37

HOW TO MAKE… A FRINGED SKIRT MATERIALS Q 2m (787/8") lightweight suedette fabric Q Matching sewing thread Q Invisible zip, 23cm (91/8") Q Rotary cutter Q Metal ruler Q Pattern paper Q Snap fastener

Shake up your spring wardrobe in the best possible way – with an injection of fun and colour. Not only does this swish-worthy suedette mini tap into the newseason trend for all things fringing, its candy-coloured pastel hue will bring a splash of subtle colour to your winter staples. Pair it with a cosy polo neck and black tights while it’s still chilly outside, then wear with a plain white tee as the weather gets warmer. Twirling around non-stop to show off the full effect of its tasselled beauty is optional. 01 Measure around your waist, then note down the measurement plus 1cm (3/8"), for wearing ease. Repeat to get your hip measurement, this

Elisalex de Castro Peake Elisalex spent four years working in the fashion industry before co-founding indie sewing pattern label By Hand London, turning her passion for sewing into a career. She heads up the creative side, designing patterns and teaching. www.byhandlondon.com

38 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

time adding 2.5cm (1"), then make a note of the distance between your waist and hip, measured down the centre front (CF). Finally, measure the length you’d like the skirt to be, starting at the waist and measuring down the CF. 02 Lay out the pattern paper, or a large piece of tracing paper, and draw a rectangle the width of half your hip measurement and the length of the skirt. Draw a vertical line down the centre of the length – this is the beginning of the side seam. The skirt front pattern piece will be the section on the right, and the skirt back pattern piece the section on the left. Mark out the hip line, drawing down from the waistline using the distance measured, then indicate the CF ‘place on fold’ line on the right short edge, and the centre back (CB) line on the left short edge. 03 Next, mark out the waistline and the darts. Starting with the skirt front piece, measure in from the right-hand top corner along a quarter of the total waistline measurement, add 2.5cm (1") for the front waistline dart, then

mark this point. Position the dart 10cm (4") from the CF, and make it 12.5cm (5") long. The width of the dart at the waistline should be 2.5cm (1"). Repeat along the waistline of the skirt back piece, this time positioning the dart 7.5cm (3") in from the CB, and making it 15cm (6") long. The skirt back dart should also be 2.5cm (1") wide. Because waistlines are curved, and the curvature of our hips makes the side seam line slightly longer than the length at the front, you’ll also need to add height to the point marked where the waistline meets the side seam. On both the skirt front and skirt back sections, measure up by 1.5cm (5/8"), then join this new point to the waistline with a curved line. To add the side seams, draw a gently curved line from the waist to the hip point. 04 Trace off the skirt front and skirt back pieces individually, and add a 1.5cm (5/8") seam allowance to the waistline, side seams and centre back seam. If the fabric shows signs of fraying, factor in a hemming allowance. Next, cut a waistband pattern piece. The length should

be the total of your waistline measurement, plus the 1cm (3/8") for wearing ease, and 5.5cm (2¼") for seam allowance and the fastening tab. The width is 10.5cm (4¼"). 05 Fold the fabric in half along the length with right sides (RS) together, then pin the skirt pieces in place, making sure the skirt front CF sits on the fold. Cut the skirt and waistband pieces out, and transfer the dart markings. 06 On the skirt front and both skirt back pieces, fold the fabric along the centre of the dart with RS together, then pin and sew along the marked lines. Backstitch at the waistline, then at the base of the dart, snip the threads and tie in a double knot to secure. Press the skirt front darts towards the side seams and the skirt back darts towards the CB. 07 Place the skirt front and skirt back pieces with RS sides together, aligning the raw edges. Pin along the side seams, then sew using a 1.5cm (5/8") seam allowance. Press the seams open. 08 Open the zip and pin one side along one long edge of the CB,

with RS together and aligning the edges. Using the invisible zipper foot, sew as close to the zip teeth as possible. Repeat with the second side of the zip and the remaining long edge of the CB, then switch to a regular zipper foot to close the remainder of the back seam. Press the seams open, being careful not to press too closely to the plastic zip teeth. 09 Cut two lengths of suedette fabric; one long enough to encircle the skirt at the waist, and one long enough to encircle the skirt at the widest part. We cut ours 25.5cm (101/8") wide, but you can adjust this – just make sure the top layer generously overlaps the bottom layer. Place the fabric wrong side (WS) up, and mark along the length of the fabric pieces, 1.5cm (5/8") down from the top edge. Using the rotary cutter and ruler, cut vertical strips down from this mark across the length of the fabric, 0.5cm (¼") wide, to create the fringing. 10 Turn the skirt RS out, then pin and sew the shorter length of fringing along the waistline, RS up. Pin the remaining length of fringing

around the widest point of the skirt, making sure the fringe hangs slightly lower than the hemline, and the top layer overlaps it, then sew. 11 Fold the waistband piece in half along the length with RS together. Sew one short edge closed using a 1.5cm (5/8") seam allowance, then sew the other short edge in a reverse L-shape, as shown, 1.5cm (5/8") in from the raw edges and 3.5cm (13/8") along the length. Carefully snip into the seam allowance at the waistline where it meets the L-shaped tab, then turn RS out and press. 12 Pin the waistband piece around the skirt waist with RS together, aligning the raw edges, and ensuring the waistband starts and finishes at the CB – the two ends should slightly overlap. Sew, then fold the waistband back and press. 13 Sew the positive side of the snap fastener to one side of the waistband, as shown. Sew the other side to the overhanging end of the waistband, ensuring the popper closes correctly. If the skirt needs hemming, press the raw edge to the WS by 1cm (3/8") and sew. 90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 39

11-13th May 2018, Ragley Hall, Warwickshire 22nd-24th June 2018, Bowood House, Wiltshire The Handmade Fair is back this summer with not one, but two Fairs! With hundreds of sessions to choose from, book today and bag your spot on a hands-on workshop...

SKILLS WORKSHOPS

The Handmade Fair’s Skills Workshops are the best way to nurture your creativity and learn new skills. This year’s sessions include must-try crafts such as macramé, hoop screen printing, willow weaving, calligraphy and jewellery making. Led by some of the best makers across the country, you’ll take away a finished project from every workshop.

GRAND MAKES

There’s nothing better than crafting with fellow enthusiasts, making friends while learning a new skill. In the Grand Make tent, you’ll create something beautiful alongside 200 other like-minded people, and get to take your make home. Sessions include origami, needle felting, making a butterfly brooch and learning the art of Indian block printing.

SUPER THEATRE

Super Theatre sessions are your chance to find out the latest craft trends, learn insider secrets from top experts, and see first-hand how designer products are made. Kirstie Allsopp, Keith Brymer Jones and Edith Bowman will be hosting the creative line-up at Ragley Hall, while Kirstie, Liz Earle and Sarah Raven will host at Bowood House. 40 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

MASH-UPS

Call us biased, but the Mollie Makes MashUps are our favourite event of the day! We challenge two craft celebs to upcycle a mystery item on stage in the Super Theatre, against each other and against the clock. You’ll be inspired and entertained by designer-makers such as Katie Jones, Christine Leech and Chloe Hardisty.

DON’T MISS..

In between events, you’ll also get to shop from hundreds of the UK’s best makers and sellers in the Shopping Village, and indulge in the foodie delights and drinks on offer in the Artisan Marketplace. Plus, don’t forget to pay a visit to the Mollie Makes café!

EXCLUSIVE TICKET OFFER! Book your tickets at www.thehandmadefair.com using code MOLLIEMAKES for your special offer* Q FULL EXPERIENCE TICKET STANDARD PRICE £29 MOLLIE MAKES OFFER £24.50

Our most popular ticket, this includes entry to the fair, one Super Theatre session, one Skills Workshop and one Grand Make Q VIP TICKET STANDARD PRICE £90 MOLLIE MAKES OFFER £82

Includes a Full Experience ticket, a goodie bag, access to the VIP lounge, lunch, free-flowing bubbly and more!

You can also choose the option of an Entry Only ticket, which costs £12 when booked in advance.

PLUS! CRAFT CAFÉ

BOOK YOUR TICKETS AT WWW.THEHANDMADEFAIR.COM USING CODE ‘MOLLIEMAKES’ OR VIA THE TICKET HOTLINE ON 0871 230 7153** *Booking fees apply, offer applies only to adult VIP and Full Experience tickets. Offer ends 28th April 2018 or when sold. **Calls cost 13p per minute plus network extras.

TRUE BLUE

LIVING

INSPIRATION ALERT! SPACES, PLACES & NEW DESIGNERS TO WATCH If you let your imagination wander far enough, a bedroom can become an enchanted woodland, populated with birds and bears and squashy knitted trees. Maple trees in particular grow orange and curiously lollipop-shaped. We like it there. www.houseofrym.com

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Adopt a ginger kitty and welcome Suzy Ultman’s Party Animal print into the family, or keep things monochrome and let Mini Empire lead you down the folksy fairytale route with this intricate beauty. www.suzyultman. com; www.sistersguild.co.uk

GET THE LOOK

Contemporary Danish design, by way of a secondary school maths classroom – this chair might just be the seating solution your home’s been quietly hoping for. www.hay.dk 44 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

CHARACTER AND COLOUR

Tick all the texture boxes with plump, colourful roving and fringing for days. A weaving with gold ribbon will always get our vote. www. sunwovenstudio.com

With abstract shapes to keep you guessing, Ruby Pilven’s plate is every bit as wondrous as the dessert you might serve on it. Scratch that, it’s way too pretty to scoff from – get it on the wall instead. www.anthropologie.com

How could you say no to these little faces? Wild hand-painted vases tip the splashy ceramics trend over into menagerie territory, and that’s just the way we like it. www.westelm.co.uk

Camilla’s aim is to inspire creativity with her kids items

BRAND FOCUS Littlephant Whimsical Swedish brand Littlephant is the brainchild of designer and illustrator Camilla Lundsten. We’re smitten with the bright, retro-f lavoured Scandi vibe, and Camilla’s signature quirky style can be found gracing everything from fabrics and homewares to toys and books for children. www.littlephant.com

If your ideal sofa is plush velvet, and strewn with novelty cushions of the knitted variety, take the first step towards making that dream a reality and choose your fave from Donna Wilson’s vibrant pile of pillows. www.donnawilson.com Littlephant’s prints and patterns often tell a story

WEBSITE TO WATCH Noodoll

You need to know about Noodoll’s squee-worthy plushie toys. Search by personality on their site to find your match among the cast of collectable ‘ricemonster’ cuties and accessories. The design-led brand is based in East London and they’re seriously passionate about fair trading and playful style. Kawaii and then some. www.noodoll.com

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Nature is Camilla’s main source of inspiration

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LIVING home tour

Welcome to Donna Wilson’s world, filled with woollen creatures and unique finds Words: LOTTIE STOREY Photography: RACHAEL SMITH

Through The Keyhole would never work at Donna Wilson’s home. One look inside and it’s obvious who owns this house – her instantly recognisable knitted creatures and trademark ceramic faces peep back at you from every room. Donna and husband Jon live here in Leytonstone with their two sons, four cats, and hundreds more Donna Wilson creations. The family bought the house back in 2013 after two years of searching. “On the surface, it all looked nice and fresh,” Donna

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LIVING home tour

In the living room, the Ercol day bed is covered with a row of Donnaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cushion designs.

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LIVING home tour

MAKE YOUR OWN

Donna produces a magazine twice a year, packed with creative ideas including this pom pom skirt.The idea behind MakeYour Own (MYO) is to “celebrate and inspire creativity in all its forms”. In the two issues of MYO published so far, you can find projects and recipes from creative folk as well as interviews with scientists, surgeons, artists and lawyers.

recalls. “But underneath it all the developers had done a really bad job, so we’re gradually ﬁxing bits!” It’s clear to see the house has good bones though, with high ceilings, period features such as cornicing and original windows, plus a generous hallway. It was the latter that swung it for Donna. “It was advertised as a detached house, but it was photographed really badly and was overgrown, dark and dingy. We didn’t know the area at all, but I totally fell in love with the house and instantly found myself imagining doing up the kids’ room! And the hall… It was such a luxury to have a hallway.” So is the hallway Donna’s favourite room? “It’s such a lovely light area of the house,” Donna swoons. “I try my best to stop it getting ﬁlled up with jackets and shoes but it’s a constant battle. My other favourite is the bathroom, which has a big roll top bath.” Donna and Jon’s houseplant collection lives here, too. 48 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

“There’s greenery climbing everywhere in there. I think the climate is right to keep them alive, plus it gives the room a really earthy feel.” So how does Donna decorate? “I start with a favourite piece of furniture to establish a colour palette,” she explains, “then add pieces of furniture, art or wall hangings. I don’t like things too matching, as I like a room to have a bit of character.” And what about the ﬁnishing touches? “I think your home should have your own unique style – I do this with small collections of objects I put on shelves; little things I’ve collected over the years that make me happy to have around. The other thing I have a lot of in the house is texture – macramé or woven wall hangings. I’m always drawn to texture, and I think it adds a homely warmth.” For a designer with such an eye for colour, Donna’s home has surprisingly minimal aspects. The living room, for example, combines white

It’s important to

Donna that home isn’t too precious – a place to live and enjoy, too. 02

“I love being

surrounded by little sentimental objects, so I make ‘exhibition’ areas on shelves.”

“Home has to be a nice place to hang out. If you don’t have as much space as you like, decorate in a way that’s inspiring to you.”

LIVING home tour

walls with strong, almost primary colours, and black and white pictures. “This room is different from the rest of the house,” agrees Donna. “I fell in love with the red wall hanging but already had the blue sofa which clashes. I thought I’d keep the rest of the décor monochromatic. The black stove seemed to pull it all together.” The family has a second wood burning stove in the kitchen; a space with a sloped ceiling, multi-aspect windows and a large dining table. Donna especially loves the kitchen’s height: “It feels very spacious. I light the log burning stove as soon as I get up, which instantly makes the room feel homely. I love the smell of it. We do a lot of arts and crafts around the kitchen table, so it’s important to have a welcoming space.” With a style Donna describes as “colourful, patternful, eclectic, and a mix of old and new,” is it hard to ﬁnd furniture to ﬁt? “Over the years, we’ve bought pieces from SCP, a furniture shop 50 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

I sell my work to. But a lot of our furniture comes from car boots or Jon’s skip ﬁnds. He loves giving things a new life, restoring them in different and unusual ways,” explains Donna. For this family, different and unusual also means bright and full of character. “Home has to be a happy, inspiring place,” says Donna. And with a creative business that’s going from strength to strength, this is one inspiring home that’s deﬁnitely ticking all of those boxes.

“Both Jon and

I love going to brocantes and car boots. He loves finding a bargain.” 02

“Don’t be afraid

to mix textures – woven wall hangings, throws and macramé.”

Donna Wilson Donna Wilson sells creatures, contemporary furniture, homewares, textiles, clothing, and even confectionery in over 30 countries around the world.You can follow her creative adventures on Instagram @donnawilsonltd. www.donnawilson.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: HELENA STEELE AND MATILDA SMITH, VELVET & LINEN CUSHION IN BLUSH FROM WWW.COXANDCOX.CO.UK

HOW TO MAKE… AN ARM KNIT CUSHION MATERIALS Q Woolly Mahoosive Mammoth, 100% acrylic, 50m/54 yd per 1kg, one ball of Light Teal Q Bolster cushion insert, approx. 40 x 15cm (15¾ x 6") Q Standard pillowcase in colour to match yarn Q Large stitch marker TENSION Tension is not important, just aim for a finish you like

ABBREVIATIONS (UK) p purl k knit CF2 Cable Front 2 – miss the next 2 stitches and leave them at the front of the work KCF2 knit the 2 stitches you missed, starting with the one on the left

Seriously chunky cable texture and a whole cushion finished in only 12 rounds? We’re sold. Made with super-soft jumbo yarn that we can’t stop squeezing, this’ll be a welcome addition to your bed or sofa. Plus, Riannon’s hands-on project is totally do-able in an evening, even if you’re a knitting newbie – no needles necessary.

FINISHED SIZE Approx. 40 x 15cm (15¾ x 6")

Instructions Before getting started, read through the steps below to familiarise yourself with the arm knitting techniques, then move on to working the pattern. Arm knitting Casting on 01 Make a slipknot to start. 02 Chain 12 stitches by pulling the yarn through the loop, making sure each loop is approximately 3cm (1¼") long. 03 Join the chain together with a slip stitch to work in the round.

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To work the pattern around the cushion, put the insert into the pillowcase before joining the chain. Hold the chain around one cushion end, then join with a slip stitch. 04 Create the first round in a similar way to how you’d cast-on with knitting needles. To do this, pull the yarn through each loop, keeping the loops approximately 3cm (1¼") long, and making sure you have 12 stitches to knit in total. 05 Place a stitch marker in the last stitch of the round and continue moving it up as you work. You are now set up for the first round of knitting and will knit or purl into these stitches as you work. Before starting the cushion, read on to learn how to knit, purl, cable and finish the knitting. How to purl 06 Keeping the yarn at the front of the work, pull it through the stitch, as shown, so you see the bump. This is the purl side.

How to knit 07 Keeping the yarn at the back of the work, pull it through the stitch so you see the flat side, which is known as the knit stitch. The stitch on the left is the knit, and the stitch on the right is the purl. Cables This cable is created by crossing stitches over each other and knitting them out of sequence. 08 Fold the next two stitches towards you to keep them out of the way, as you will skip these two, then come back to them. 09 Pull the yarn tightly and knit the next two stitches, making sure the stitches you’ve knitted have crossed behind the previous two stitches folded out of the way. 10 Next, knit both of the two folded stitches you skipped, as shown. You’ll start to see the pattern and shape forming. Don’t worry if the tension is uneven – one of the reasons knitting

without needles is fun, is because it has its own unique character. Finishing 11 Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail, and pull through each remaining stitch clockwise. Once all the stitches have been threaded, pull tightly and weave the tail inside. 12 To finish the cast-on end, thread a 20cm (77/8") length of yarn through each of the chain stitches made in Step 2. Once all the stitches have been threaded, pull tightly and weave the remaining yarn tail inside the bolster.

Cushion Following the casting on method, make a slipknot and chain 12 stitches. Pop the bolster insert into the pillowcase and join the two ends of the chain around it with a slip stitch. Work a cast-on round as in Step 4. Round 1 p4, k4, p4 Round 2 as Round 1 Round 3 p4, CF2, k2, KCF2, p4 Repeat Rounds 1-3 twice more Rounds 10-12 as Round 1 Cut the yarn leaving a long tail. To finish both ends of the bolster, refer to Steps 11-12.

Riannon Selcuk I Make Knots founder Riannon runs crafty workshops in the UK and Ireland with a team of expert knot makers, and has an online shop selling DIY kits and patterns. Her studio for playful giant knitting and crochet is based in London. www.imakeknots.com

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New 2018 Wallpaper Collection www.lucytiffney.com

Hot cHips

PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: HELENA STEELE AND MATILDA SMITH

Get in on the terrazzo trend with Sophie Gibbonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; clay coasters

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HOW TO MAKE… TERRAZZO COASTERS MATERIALS Q 200g (7oz) white polymer clay Q Small amounts of polymer clay in black, grey, tan, terracotta and pale pink Q Craft knife Q 10cm (4") circular cutter Q Greaseproof paper Q Rolling pin Q Fine sandpaper Q Two equal lengths of balsa wood, approx. 0.5cm (¼") wide Q Oven tray

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Step aside marble – your speckled cousin terrazzo is taking the spotlight in interiors and homewares right now. Get the look into your gaff in next to no time – and fancy up your next drinks gathering – with this set of simple round coasters. Use neutral shades of polymer clay to keep it minimal, or swap in bright speckles for a confetti vibe. 01 Preheat the oven to 130ºC/ 266ºF/Gas Mark ½ and line an oven tray with greaseproof paper. 02 Divide the white polymer clay into four equal blocks of 50g (2oz).

03 Lay a sheet of greaseproof paper on a table or flat surface and place one block of roughly flattened clay on top. Lay the balsa wood sticks either side – this will help to keep the top of the coaster even when rolling it out. 04 Place another sheet of greaseproof paper on top of the clay and roll out until level. 05 Using the craft knife, cut small strips off the various coloured clay blocks and cut them into random chip shapes, as shown. 06 Remove the top layer of greaseproof paper and carefully place the coloured pieces over the

rolled out white clay. Layer some colours together but try to keep the colours evenly distributed. 07 Place the greaseproof paper back on top of the clay and roll over it with the rolling pin. Once the colours are flat, smooth over each piece with your hands to ensure there are no gaps. Roll one more time, then once youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re happy, peel the paper back off. 08 Place the circle cutter on top of the clay and press down firmly. 09 To remove the excess clay, make a small cut with the craft knife, then carefully peel the excess away from the circle cutter.

10 Lift the cutter off, then remove the coaster from the greaseproof paper. The easiest way to do this without distorting the shape is to place it on the edge of a table, then pull the paper down while sliding the coaster towards you.

11 Carefully place the coaster onto the oven tray and repeat Steps 3-10 three more times until you have a set of four coasters. 12 Bake for 30 minutes and leave to cool. Gently sand the edges if required, using fine sandpaper.

Sophie Gibbons Sophie lives in Staffordshire with her husband, two daughters and a fairly grumpy cat. She began designing on paper initially in 2015, but moved into embroidery after the birth of her second daughter. She loves patterns, stationery, true crime and Mexican food. www.junkandglitter.etsy.com

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BRUNCH CLUB

PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: HELENA STEELE AND MATILDA SMITH

Bring all-day-breakfast vibes to your kitchen with Hannah Crossâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fun crochet potholders

HOW TO MAKE… CROCHET POTHOLDERS MATERIALS Q Drops Paris, 100% cotton, 75m/82yd per 50g, one ball each of White (16) (Yarn A), Strong Yellow (14) (Yarn B), Brown (44) (Yarn C), Dark Beige (26) (Yarn D), Green (43) (Yarn E) and Pistachio (39) (Yarn F) Q 4.5mm (UK 7, US 7) crochet hook Q 5.5mm (UK 5, US I/9) crochet hook Q Yarn needle Q Stitch markers TENSION Tension isn’t essential for this project

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ABBREVIATIONS (UK) st(s) stitch(es) ch chain ss slip stitch dc double crochet htr half treble tr treble RS right side BLO work stitch through back loop only FLO work stitch through front loop only rep repeat FINISHED SIZE Toast approx. 22 x 22cm (8¾ x 8¾") Egg approx. 19cm (9½") Avocado approx. 21 x 15cm (8¼ x 6")

Your go-to Instagrammable brekkie, now in larger-than-life crochet form – you’re welcome. Yes, this egg, avo and toast are functioning potholders, but the real fun is layering them up (à la play food), to create the ultimate make-believe brunch stack. Stitch your favourite one to kitsch up your kitchen, or hook all three as a quirky new-home gift. Instructions The ch1 at the beginning of a row or round does not count as a st throughout. Toast Bread Using 4.5mm hook and Yarn D, ch18 Row 1 (RS) 1dc in the second ch from hook, *1tr, 1dc; rep from * to end of row, turn [17 sts] Row 2 ch1, 1dc in the first st, *1dc, 1tr; rep from * to last 2 sts, 2dc, turn Row 3 ch1, *1dc, 1tr; rep from * to

last st, 1dc, turn Rows 2 and 3 form the pattern. Repeat Rows 2-3 six more times. Row 16 ch1, (1dc, 1tr) in the first st, *1dc, 1tr; rep from * to last 2 sts, 1dc, (1tr, 1dc) in last st, turn [19 sts] Row 17 ch1, 1dc in the first st, *1dc, 1tr; rep from * to last 2 sts, 2dc, turn Row 18 ch1, 2htr in the first st, *1tr, 1dc; rep from * to last 2 sts, 1tr, 2htr in last st, turn [21 sts] Row 19 ch1, 2htr in the first st, 1htr, *1dc, 1tr; rep from * to last 3 sts, 1dc, 1htr, 2htr in last st, turn [23 sts] Row 20 ch1, (1htr, 1tr) in the first st, 1htr, *1dc, 1tr; rep from * three more times, 1dc, turn [12 sts] Row 21 ch1, 1dc in the first st, *1dc, 1tr; rep from * to last 3 sts, 3tr, turn Row 22 ch1, 1htr in the first st, 4tr, (1dc, 1tr) twice, 1dc, 1htr, ss in last st, turn Row 23 miss the first ss, ss in htr, 1tr, 1dc, 1tr, 1htr, 4tr, 1htr, 1dc Break yarn and fasten off. With RS facing, rejoin yarn to 13th stitch of Row 19.

Row 1 ch1, *1dc, 1tr; rep from * to last 3 sts, 1dc, 1htr, (1tr, 1htr) in last st, turn [12 sts] Row 2 ch2 (does not count as st), 3tr, *1tr, 1dc; rep from * to last st, 1dc, turn Row 3 ss in the first st, 1htr, (1dc, 1tr) twice, 1dc, 4tr, 1htr, turn Row 4 ch1, 1dc, 1htr, 4tr, 1htr, 1tr, 1dc, 1tr, 1ss Break yarn and fasten off. With RS facing, using 5.5mm hook, rejoin Yarn D to the top left corner and work 96ss evenly around edge of toast, ss in first st to join. Break yarn and fasten off. Turn to WS facing and join Yarn C for edging, continuing with 5.5mm hook. Round 1 ss in FLO of each around, ss in the first st to join Round 2 working in BLO ch1, 2dc in the first st, 24dc, 1htr, 16dc, 1htr, 24dc, (2dc in next st, 1dc) 5 times, 11dc, (2dc in next st, 1dc) 4 times, ss in the first st to join, ch10, ss in the first st to form loop Break yarn and fasten off.

Butter pat Using 4.5mm hook and Yarn B, ch9 Row 1 (RS) 1dc in the second ch the from hook and each remaining ch, turn [8 sts] Rows 2-5 ch1, 1dc in each st along, turn Break yarn and fasten off. Sew the butter pat in place on the slice of bread and, using Yarn A and the image as a guide, sew a highlight in the top right hand corner of the butter pat. Egg Egg white Work in continuous rounds for the egg white and egg yolk. Use a stitch marker at the start of each round and move it up as you work. Using the 4.5mm hook and Yarn A, ch2 Round 1 (RS) 6dc in the second ch from the hook [6 sts] Round 2 2dc in each st around [12 sts] Round 3 *1dc, 2dc in next st; rep from * to end of round [18 sts]

Round 4 1dc, 2dc in next st, *2dc, 2dc in next st; rep from * four more times, 1dc [24 sts] Round 5 *3dc, 2dc in next st; rep from * to end of round [30 sts] Round 6 2dc, 2dc in next st, *4dc, 2dc in next st; rep from * four more times, 2dc [36 sts] Round 7 *5dc, 2dc in next st; rep from * to end of round [42 sts] Round 8 3dc, 2dc in next st, *6dc, 2dc in next st; rep from * four more times, 3dc [48 sts] Round 9 *7dc, 2dc in next st; rep from * to end of round [54 sts] Round 10 4dc, 2dc in next st, *8dc, 2dc in next st; rep from * four more times, 4dc [60 sts] Round 11 *9dc, 2dc in next st; rep from * to end of round [66 sts] Round 12 5dc, 2dc in next st, 10htr, 2htr in next st, 5htr, 5dc, 2dc in next st, 10dc, 2dc in next st, 8htr, 2dc, 2dc in next st, 5htr, 5dc, 2dc in next st, 5dc [72 sts] Round 13 5dc, 6htr, 2htr in next st, 11htr, 2dc in next st, 11dc, 2dc in next st, 5dc, 6htr, 2htr in next st, 90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 61

HOW TO MAKE… CROCHET POTHOLDERS 7dc, 4htr, 2dc in next st, 11dc, 2dc in next st [78 sts] Round 14 6dc, 2htr in next st, 12htr, 2htr in next st, 3htr, 9dc, 2dc in next st, 12dc, 2htr in next st, 6htr, 6dc, 2htr in next st, 5htr, 7dc, 2dc in next st, 6dc [84 sts] Turn to WS facing and change to 5.5mm hook. Round 15 ss in FLO of each around, ss in the first st to join, ch10, ss in the first st to form loop Break yarn and fasten off. Egg yolk Using Yarn B and 4.5mm hook, ch2

Hannah Cross Hannah is the designer-maker behind HanJan Crochet. She first learnt to crochet so she could make for friends’ little ones, but also loves designing patterns with a fun, modern twist. Find her latest makes – including the cutest baby booties – on Instagram @hanjancrochet. www.hanjancrochet.com

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Rounds 1-5 work as for Egg white Round 6 1dc in each st around [30 sts] Break yarn and fasten off. Using Yarn A and the image as a guide, sew a highlight in the top right hand curve of the egg yolk. To finish, stuff a small amount of yarn into the yolk, then sew it in place on the centre of the egg white as shown. Avocado Fruit Using Yarn F and 4.5mm hook, ch2 Rounds 1-6 work as for Egg white [36 sts] Round 7 ch10, 2dc in the second ch from the hook, 8dc, *5dc, 2dc in next st; rep from * four more times, 15dc [60 sts] Round 8 2dc in next st, 12dc, 2dc in next st, *6dc, 2dc in next st; rep from * four more times, 11dc [67 sts] Round 9 2dc in each of next 2 sts, 9dc, *7dc, 2dc in next st; rep from * four more times, 16dc [74 sts] Round 10 1dc, 2dc in each of next

2 sts, 14dc, 2dc in next st, *8dc, 2dc in next st; rep from * four more times, 11dc [82 sts] Break yarn and fasten off. Turn to WS facing. Join Yarn E using 5.5mm hook. Round 11 ss in FLO of each st around, ss in first st to join Turn to RS facing. Round 12 work in BLO – 2dc, 2dc in each of next 2 sts, 11dc, *9dc, 2dc in next st; rep from * four more times, 19dc, ss in the first st to join, ch10, ss in the first st to form loop Break yarn and fasten off. Stone Using Yarn C and 4.5mm hook, ch2 Rounds 1-4 work as for Egg white Round 5 1dc in each st around [24 sts] Break yarn and fasten off. Using Yarn A and the image as a guide, sew a highlight in the top right hand curve of the stone. Stuff a small amount of yarn into the stone, then sew in place on the avocado. Sew in any loose ends.

Weekend getaway

PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: HELENA STEELE AND MATILDA SMITH

Make sure you’ve got room for all the essentials with Anna Alicia’s easy-sew wash bag

HOW TO MAKE… A WASHBAG MATERIALS Q 50cm (19¾") plain cotton fabric (we used Kona Cotton Solids in Indigo) Q 50cm (19¾") patterned cotton fabric (we used Dashwood Studios Norrland Sprigs in Blue Metallic) Q 50cm (19¾") wadding Q Zip, 40cm (15¾") Q Matching sewing thread Q White sewing thread Q Gold sewing thread Q Tailor’s chalk

Bump up your baggage status to first class with this Japaneseinspired sew. Combining the inkiest indigo fabric with a delicate gold-flecked print, its minimal aesthetic and roomy proportions give it a grown-up feel we love. And, while its box corners and contrasting top stitch look impressive, they’re easier to master than you might think. Pick your fabrics and sew it in just an evening, then book a weekend break with pals to show it off. 01 Place the patterned fabric right side (RS) down and mark out two 30 x 40cm (117/8 x 15¾") pieces. Add a 1.5cm (5/8") seam allowance to both of the pieces and cut out, then cut a piece of wadding to

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the same size, using the fabric as a template. Place the wadding between the two pieces of fabric with wrong sides (WS) facing, then put to one side. 02 Place the plain fabric RS down and mark out four 14.5 x 40cm (5¾ x 15¾") pieces. Add a 1.5cm (5/8") seam allowance to each piece and cut out, then cut two pieces of wadding to the same size, using the fabric as a template. 03 Place one plain fabric piece RS up and position the zip along one long edge, RS up and aligning the edges. Place another plain fabric piece on top with RS down, aligning the edges. Add a piece of wadding on top in the same way, then pin along the edge of the zip. Using a zipper sewing machine

foot, sew along the pinned edge, approximately 3-4mm (1/8") away from the teeth of the zip. 04 Fold back the fabric and wadding to reveal the zip, then press the fabric in place. Repeat Step 3 along the second long edge of the zip, using the remaining plain fabric and wadding pieces. Once sewn, fold back the fabric and wadding and press again. 05 Pin along the outer long edges of the fabric and wadding layers to hold in place. Using the white sewing thread and the regular sewing machine foot, sew along either side of the zip, 0.5cm (¼") away from the seam as shown. 06 Continuing in white thread, begin sewing lines along the length of the fabric, parallel to the

zip, and 1.5cm (5/8") apart. Stop approximately 3cm (1¼") from the outer long edge, and repeat on the opposite side of the zip. 07 Open the zip halfway and, with the zip RS up, place the patterned fabric and wadding sandwich on top, aligning the raw edges. Pin and sew along all four edges, 1.5cm (5/8") in, then trim the seams to 0.5cm (¼"). Oversew the seams using zigzag stitch. 08 Flatten out one of the corners so the seam between the plain and patterned fabrics runs away from you. Measure 8cm (31/8") up from the corner point and draw a line horizontally across the corner. 09 Pin and sew along the marked line, then trim the seam to 0.5cm (¼"). Repeat with the three Subscribe at molliemakes.com

remaining corners, then oversew all raw edges using a wide zigzag stitch. Turn the bag RS out. 10 Wrap a length of gold thread around two fingers until you have enough to make a small tassel. Take the loop of thread off your fingers and thread another length of thread through the loop, tying it securely. Holding the tassel at the

top, take a third length of thread, approximately 20cm (77/8") long, and tie it around the tassel, 0.5cm (¼") down from the top knot. Loop the thread around the top of the tassel, then knot to secure and trim off any excess. Cut across the bottom of the tassel to finish, and attach it to the zip pull using the thread at the top.

Anna Alicia Anna’s home is full of handmade things, from ceramic mugs to quilted blankets. She’s always on the lookout for new avenues to explore for her jewellery and homeware label, A Alicia, and is also the author of DIY craft book Make It Your Own. www.aalicia.bigcartel.com

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EXCLUSIVE PAPERS! Flowers and birds and bears â&#x20AC;&#x201C; oh my! Eight gorgeous illustrations to pin up, collage or wrap with. Share your makes using #molliemakers Illustrations: BETHAN JANINE WESTRAN WWW.BETHANJANINE.COM

LOVING

OH, YOU PRETTY THINGS! MOODBOARDS & MUSINGS TO INSPIRE US For egg hunting, fruit picking and any other treasures little ones see fit to squirrel away, a hand-woven basket is the receptacle of choice. We heard the Easter Bunny is especially fond of filling Olli Ellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Apple Basket, roomy enough for treats galore. www.olliella.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: HELENA STEELE AND MATILDA SMITH

Wake up, sleepyHead Sew sloth-print pjs for little ‘uns to lounge around in – Eilidh Weir shows you how

HOW TO MAKE… SLOTH PYJAMAS MATERIALS Q 1m (393/8") patterned fabric (we used Blend Rainforest Slumber of Sloths in Pink from www. sewscrumptious.co.uk) Q Contrasting fabric Q Elastic, 2cm (¾") wide Q Cotton tape, 1.5cm (5/8") wide Q Iron-on interfacing Q Pattern paper Q Tailor’s curve Q Tailor’s chalk Q Rotary cutter Q Seam ripper

Designed with weekends in mind, these cute kids’ pjs are essential wear for lazing on the sofa and eating pancakes for breakfast. And, while anything made in this fun sloth-print fabric would be pretty adorable, their contrasting turn-ups and drawstring waist are making us wish we had our own pair. Use your child’s measurements to make a pattern that fits just right, then size it up to sew a matching pair for mama. 01 Measure around the child’s waist, so around the middle of their tummy, then measure their inside leg, down to the floor.

Eilidh Weir Eilidh is the designer-maker behind All That is BRAW, creating gorgeous flannel pyjamas and dressing-up capes. When she’s able to tear herself away from her sewing machine, you’ll find her getting her hands dirty in the garden with her boys and vegetables. www.allthatisbraw.uk

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Calculate one half and one third of the waist measurement and write these down as well. 02 Lay out the pattern paper, or a large piece of tracing paper, and draw a vertical line down the centre for the grain. Roughly two-thirds from the bottom of the page, draw a horizontal line across the grain to mark the hipline. Mark the waist measurement on this line, slightly off centre – ours was for a four-year-old, and we positioned it 2cm (¾") to the left. Add 3cm (1¼") to one third of the waist measurement, then measure and mark a line this distance up from the hipline to mark the waistline. 03 Add 10cm (4") to half of the waist measurement, then measure and mark a line this length along the waistline, slightly off centre from the grain – we positioned ours 1.5cm (5/8") to the right. At the left end of this line, measure and mark 3cm (1¼") up – this is the centre back (CB) point of the waist. Mark another point halfway along the waistline, then join the two with a straight line. Use a curve to join the

waist points with the hip points, as shown, making the CB and centre front (CF) crotch lines. 04 Mark a point down from the hipline using the inside leg measurement, then draw a horizontal line across the grain at this point to mark the hemline. Add 3cm (1¼") to half of the waist measurement, then measure and mark a line this length centrally along the hemline. At either end of this line, draw a vertical line up towards the hipline, measuring one-third of the waist measurement. After this point, use a tailor's curve to join the outside of the leg with the CB and CF crotch lines, as shown. Add a seam allowance to the crotch and inside leg seams, then label the pyjama pattern piece, marking the CB, CF and grain line, and cut it out. 05 To make the pattern piece for the waistband, draw a rectangle measuring half of the waist measurement plus 12cm (4¾") long and 9cm (35/8") wide. To make the pattern piece for the cuffs, draw a rectangle measuring half of the

waist measurement plus 6cm (23/8") long and 7cm (2Âž") wide. Label the pattern pieces as waistband and cuff, then cut them both out. 06 Fold the patterned fabric in half along the length and pin the pyjama pattern to the fabric. Cut out using the rotary cutter. Fold the coordinating fabric in half along the length and cut out the cuff and waistband patterns. 07 Place the two waistband pieces with right sides (RS) together and sew along one short edge. Press open the seams, then fold the whole piece in half along the length with RS together. Press once more, open out, then fold both of the long edges to the wrong side (WS) by 1.5cm (5/8"). 08 Cut small pieces of iron-on interfacing and press in place either side of the centre seam on the WS of the waistband, as shown. These will help strengthen the buttonholes. Pin the short edges with RS together and sew, then press the seam open. Fold the waistband in half along the length with WS together.

09 Fold the long edges on both cuff pieces to the WS by 1cm (3/8"). Press, then open out. Fold both in half along the length with RS together and sew along the short edge, then press open the seams. 10 Mark 2cm (Âž") long buttonholes on the RS of the waistband, either side of the centre seam, over the section reinforced with iron-on interfacing. Sew the buttonholes through the front layer of the waistband only, using short zigzag stitch, then pull the threads through to the WS. Tie off and trim, then carefully cut the buttonholes open using a seam ripper. 11 Next, pin the pyjama bottom pieces with RS together, aligning the raw edges. Sew along the CF and CB crotch seams, then sew over the seams using zigzag stitch to secure. Press the seams to one side, then sew the inside leg seam in the same way and press. 12 Open out the waistband and pin to the top of the pyjama bottoms with RS together, aligning the raw edges, and matching the CB and CF seams. Sew along the top fold

line, then fold up the waistband and press the seam. 13 Cut a length of cotton tape twice the length of the waist measurement. Thread it through the inside of the waistband and out the buttonholes, then fold the ends over twice. Sew to secure in place. 14 Fold the waistband over the top raw edge of the pyjamas, tucking the long raw edge under. Pin, then top stitch along the folded long edge, leaving a 4cm (15/8") gap. Cut a length of elastic 4cm (15/8") less than the waist measurement, then feed it through the waistband and out the other side. Sew the ends to secure, then sew the gap closed. 15 Take one cuff and pin it to the bottom of a pyjama leg with RS together, aligning the raw edges. Sew along the top fold line, then fold the bottom raw edge of the cuff to the WS along the fold. Turn the pyjamas WS out and fold the cuff up the pyjama leg with WS together. Press, then sew along the folded edge of the cuff. 16 Turn the pyjamas RS out, then turn up the cuffs and press in place. 90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 79

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PHOTOGRAPHY: HANNEKE SPAN

Life in colour Get your brights on with Annemarie Huijserâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s punchy crochet mandala trio

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HOW TO MAKE… CROCHET MANDALAS MATERIALS Q Stylecraft Special DK, 100% acrylic, 295m/322yd per 100g, one ball each in Matador (1010) (Yarn A), Aspen (1422) (Yarn B), Candyfloss (1130) (Yarn C), Fiesta (1257 (Yarn D), Aster (1003) (Yarn E), Bright Green (1259) (Yarn F), Turquoise (1068) (Yarn G), Sunshine (1114) (Yarn H), White (1001) (Yarn I), Fondant (1241) (Yarn J) Q 3.5mm (UK 9, US E/4) crochet hook Q Yarn needle TENSION Tension is not essential for this project ABBREVIATIONS (UK) st(s) stitch(es) ch chain ss slip stitch dc double crochet htr half treble tr treble dtr double treble yrh yarn round hook fptr front post treble – yrh, insert hook from the front of your work to the back, around the back of the indicated st and back through to the front, yrh and draw round the back of the post of the indicated st, (yrh and draw through 2 loops) twice

fpdtr front post double treble – yrh twice, insert hook from the front of your work to the back, around the back of the indicated st and back through to the front, yrh and draw round the back of the post of the indicated st, (yrh and draw through 2 loops) three times str spike treble – a spike st is an elongated st worked in rows or rounds below where you would normally work, in this case work a tr into the round indicated sdtr spike double treble – a spike st is an elongated st worked in rows or rounds below where you would normally work, in this case work a dtr into the round indicated magic ring hold yarn in your hand and wrap working yarn around forefinger twice to create ring, slip ring off your finger and insert hook to pick up first st, ch3, then work the necessary sts for Round 1 and close the ring by pulling the loose end rep repeat FINISHED SIZE Each mandala has a diameter of approx. 23cm (91/8")

Feel like making, just for the sheer joy of it? Scratch that crafty itch with this bright crochet project, and get a happy colour fix while trying out new techniques. The three mandalas are all worked from the same pattern, but each one uses colour in a different way. Use the shades listed, or go rogue and mix it up, clashing or complimenting different hues. Blue mandala Colours are changed every round, so break the yarn and fasten off at the end of each round, and sew in the ends as you go. Using Yarn A, make a magic ring

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Round 1 ch3 (counts as 1tr), 11tr in ring, pull ring gently, join to 3rd st from starting ch3 with a ss, pull ring tight [12tr] Round 2 join Yarn B in any space between sts made in Round 1, ch3 (counts as 1tr), 1tr in same place, 2tr in each space between sts made in the previous round, join to 3rd st from starting ch3 with a ss [24tr] Round 3 join Yarn C in any space between 2 groups of 2tr made in the previous round, ch3 (counts as 1tr), 2tr in same place, 3tr in each space between 2tr groups made in the previous round, join to 3rd st from starting ch3 with a ss [36tr] Round 4 join Yarn D in any space

between 2 groups of 3tr made in the previous round, ch5 (counts as 1dc, ch3), (1dc, ch3) in each space between 3tr groups made in the previous round, join to 2nd st from starting ch5 with a ss [12dc and 12 3ch-sps] Round 5 join Yarn A in any 3ch-sp, ch3 (counts as 1tr), str in the middle st of the 3tr group made in Round 3 working over the 3ch-sp, 1tr in 3ch-sp, ch1, (1tr, 1str in middle st of 3tr group, 1tr, ch1) in each 3ch-sp around, join to 3rd st from starting ch3 with a ss [36tr and 12 1ch-sps] Round 6 join Yarn E in any tr, ch3 (counts as 1tr), 1tr in each st and 1str over 1ch-sp and into the dc on Round 4 all around, join to 3rd st from starting ch3 with a ss [48tr] Round 7 join Yarn B in any tr, ch3 (counts as 1tr), *2tr in next st, 1tr in next st; rep from * to last st, 2tr in last st, join to 3rd st from starting ch3 with a ss [72tr] Round 8 join Yarn C in a tr on

Haken met Studio Hip en Stip This project is from Haken met Studio Hip en Stip by Annemarie Huijser (ÂŁ14.99), published in Dutch by Kosmos Uitgevers (pattern translation by Marianne Dekkers-Roos). Find Annemarieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s colourful makes on Insta @studiohipenstip. www.studiohipenstip.nl

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Round 7 sitting directly above a str on Round 6, ch2 (counts as 1dc), 1dc in next st, *1fptr around mid st of 3tr group on Round 6, miss 1 st, 1dc in each of next 5sts; rep from * another 11 times but on the last repeat omit the last 2dc, join to 2nd st from starting ch2 with a ss [60dc and 12fptr] Round 9 join Yarn D in any fptr on Round 8, ch3 (counts as 1tr), ch4, miss 2 sts, *1tr in next st, ch4, miss 2 sts; rep from * to end of round, join to 3rd st from starting ch3 with a ss [24tr and 24 4ch-sps] Round 10 work this round into Round 8 and in front of Round 9, join Yarn E in a dc from Round 8 immediately before a tr worked on Round 9, ch3 (counts as 1tr), ch4, miss 2 sts of Round 8, *1tr in next st, ch4, miss 2 sts of Round 8; rep from * to end of round, join to 3rd st from starting ch3 with a ss [24tr and 24 4ch-sps] Round 11 join Yarn A through the 4ch-sps on both Rounds 9 and 10 between the tr from these rounds, ch3 (counts as 1tr), sdtr over the 4ch-sps and into the unused dc of Round 8, 1tr in same 4ch-sps, ch1, *1tr in next 4ch-sps, 1sdtr into Round 8 dc, 1tr in same 4ch-sps, ch1; rep from * to end of round, join to 3rd st from starting ch3 with a ss [48tr, 24 sdtr and 24 1ch-sps]

Round 12 join Yarn B in a tr directly after a 1ch-sp, ch3 (counts as 1tr), 1tr in each of next 2 sts, 1str over the 1ch-sp and into the tr of Round 10, *1tr in each of next 3 sts, 1str over the 1ch-sp and into the tr of Round 10; rep from * to end of round, join to 3rd st from starting ch3 with a ss [72tr and 24str] Round 13 join Yarn C in any tr, ch2 (counts as 1dc), 1dc in each st around, join to 2nd st from starting ch2 with a ss [96dc] Round 14 join Yarn D in any dc, ch2 (counts as 1htr), *2htr in next st, 1htr in next st; rep from * to last st, 2htr in last st, join to 2nd st from starting ch2 with a ss [144htr] Round 15 join Yarn E in any htr, ch2 (counts as 1dc), *1tr in next st, ss in next st, miss 1 st, 1dc in next st; rep from * to last 3 sts, 1tr in next st, ss in next st, miss 1 st, join to 2nd st from starting ch2 with a ss Yellow mandala Work as for the Blue mandala, this time using Yarn H, Yarn D, Yarn I, Yarn J, Yarn A and Yarn B in your desired colour sequence. Pink mandala Work as for the Blue mandala, this time using Yarn F, Yarn D, Yarn A, Yarn G, and Yarn C in your desired colour sequence. 90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 83

Following her win last year, Joanne has designed even more colourful treasures

TOP RIGHT PHOTOGRAPH: WILL IRELAND

Find out this year’s #MarchMeetTheMaker prompts via Joanne’s Instagram and website

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LOVING good read

CREATING CONNECTIONS

Joanne Hawker, winner of the Mollie Makes Handmade Champion Award 2017, shares the story behind her #MarchMeetTheMaker Instagram challenge

“A

rt and design are all I’ve ever known. At primary school I spent my time drawing, and later on I did an art foundation course, then studied graphic communication at university. After graduating, I struggled to find a job I wanted, so I worked on a pepper farm and spent my evenings drawing pictures. I started selling them on Etsy, then after a few months I applied to Not on the High Street and got accepted. Suddenly, I realised this was a business, and not just something I was doing for fun. “I kept this up for a few years until it got to the point where I was working all day, then making orders all night, so I went full-time and haven’t looked back. My products are usually inspired by conversations or daft things my boyfriend and I have said to each other – I stick them on cards, and people seem to like them! “Photography has made the biggest difference to my business. When I started out, my photos were atrocious – no wonder it took so long to get my first Etsy sale! Even when that improved though, I still struggled with Instagram. I’d share images of my work, but found myself stuck in a rut, not knowing what to post. “I started searching for a challenge or prompts to help me, but I couldn’t find anything that would showcase my business the way I wanted. Chatting

to friends, I said: “I guess I could create something myself,” to which they replied, “well, why don’t you?” So that’s how #MarchMeetTheMaker was born! “To plan my month-long photo challenge, I wrote down every aspect of my business, picking the ones I thought might make the most interesting prompts for behind-the-scenes pictures, such as ‘How & why’ and ‘Inspiration’. I was terriﬁed no-one else would get involved so I begged my friends to do it. But, other designer-makers and small businesses did join in, posting images using the prompts, and sharing or tagging their friends, and it grew bigger and bigger. “I never expected the hashtag to take off the way it did, but I think releasing the prompts a week beforehand helped, as it gave people time to prepare. The community that grew up around it was lovely – I made new friends, developed my Instagram style and helped fellow makers to showcase their brands, too. “A friend entered the Mollie Makes Handmade Awards so I decided to give it a go. I was terriﬁed when I was shortlisted, but the judges and team were lovely. Winning was crazy but great, and the mentoring has helped me see #MarchMeetTheMaker in a new light.” Find Joanne at www.joannehawker.co.uk and follow @joannehawker for more on this year’s Insta challenge.

JOANNE’S TOP FIVE TIPS FOR STARTING A SIDE PROJECT

Don’t get disheartened if it doesn’t take off overnight. These things take time and people need to know where to ﬁnd you. Start posting your project on social media and tell anyone who’ll listen about what you’re up to. Also, it’s okay to ask for help – you’re not going to know the answer to everything!

If your project is related to Etsy, such as opening a shop, then I recommend joining your local Etsy team. Not only are they are a great help in terms of shop-related advice, but it’s also a wonderful way to ﬁnd other creative people who just ‘get it’.

Make good use of your time. If you’ve got a day job, block out time between shifts, in evenings and on weekends to work on your side project. That could be making stock, doing accounts, or visiting that craft fair you’ve been thinking of applying to.You’ll be surprised how much you can get done in that small window.

WORDS: JESSICA BATEMAN

also everything that goes on behind the scenes. People love a good sneak peek and it’s a great conversation starter. It’s also a really good opportunity to grow your following, put yourself out there and meet an amazing new bunch of creative people.

Take part in #MarchMeetTheMaker over on Instagram! It all kicks off on 1st March but prompts are released earlier on my proﬁle @joannehawker. It’s a great way to not only show people what you make, but

Stay true to your vision.You’ll meet a lot of people along the way who will offer you different advice, but if it doesn’t ﬁt with where you see yourself then don’t feel you have to do it.

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reat yourse to cky raham s sweetie-filled piÃ±ata doughnuts

PHOTOGRAPHY: JOE WOODHOUSE

Sugar rush

HOW TO MAKE… PIÑATA DOUGHNUTS INGREDIENTS For the doughnuts Q 750g (1lb 10oz) strong white bread flour, plus extra for dusting Q 80g (3oz) caster sugar Q 80g (3oz) unsalted butter Q 3 tsp salt Q 6 tsp instant dried yeast Q 3 medium eggs Q 240ml (8 floz) warm full-fat milk Q 140ml (5 floz) warm water Q 2 tbsp vegetable oil For frying Q 3 litres (100 fl oz) vegetable oil For baking Q Rapeseed oil spray For the buttercream Q 175g (6oz) unsalted butter Q 175g (6oz) icing sugar Q 125g (4oz) good quality white chocolate, broken into pieces (or use white chocolate chips) Q 2 tbsp double cream For topping and filling Q 200g (7oz) caster sugar Q 175g (6oz) chocolate beans (we used Mini Smarties®) Q 60g (2oz) rainbow sprinkles EQUIPMENT Q Rolling pin Q Two baking trays Q 10cm (4") ring cutter or 6cm (2½") mini ring cutter Q Piping bag

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If unicorns ate doughnuts, we’re pretty sure they’d look something like these, concealing a cache of sweet treats, and topped with a swirl of buttercream and rainbow sprinkles. Bake or fry these indulgent party goodies, then choose your favourite chocolatey sweets for the hidden treasure inside – mini pastel eggs would be ace for Easter. Anyone else suddenly feel a treat yo’ self moment coming on? Instructions This recipe makes 12 regular doughnuts or 24 mini doughnuts. Both versions are made using a ring cutter to cut out the hole. However, instead of removing the dough from the centre, you leave it in for the dough’s prove, so both the dough ring and the dough ‘hole’ rise together. Fry or bake the doughnut with the centre intact, then once the doughnuts are cooked, carefully remove the inner hole using a sharp knife, leaving behind a thin layer of dough at the base to act as a barrier for the filling. That way, when you pick the doughnut up, the insides won’t fall out. Making the doughnuts 01 Place the flour, sugar and butter in a large bowl. Make two wells in the flour at opposite sides of the bowl and add the salt to one, and the yeast to the other. 02 Break in the three eggs, then add all of the warm milk. 03 If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and mix on the slowest speed, while carefully pouring in the water, a small amount at a time. If you don’t have a stand mixer, use one of your hands to bring the dough together and the other to pour in the water. Mix together until all the ingredients have been incorporated – you should end up with a sticky, wet mixture.

04 Continue kneading the dough on a slow setting for around eight minutes, or by hand on a floured surface for around 10 minutes. When the dough has been kneaded enough, it’ll be smooth, elastic and have a shiny surface. 05 Place the dough in a clean bowl and cover with a damp tea towel until it’s doubled in size. Allow anything between 20 and 90 minutes, depending on the temperature of your kitchen. 06 Grease the two baking trays, using one tablespoon of vegetable oil for each of them. 07 Cover your hands with flour and sprinkle a flat surface with more flour. Tip out the dough and knead with your hands to form a ball. Use a dough scraper, if you like, to help pick up all of the doughy residue. 08 Sprinkle the rolling pin with flour, then roll out the dough to around 2cm (¾") thick.

09 Use a cutter to cut out your desired shapes and place onto the greased baking trays, spacing them out. Knead any leftover dough and roll out to repeat the process until you have used up all the dough. Leave to rise for around 1020 minutes, until the dough springs back when you touch it.

Cooking These doughnuts can be baked or fried. Frying the doughnuts will make them crispy and fluffy, while baking them in the oven will make them soft and squidgy. Frying Be very careful when using hot oil. Keep any form of water away from the fryer or pan, move slowly to avoid any splashes and, if using a pan, always use a digital thermometer to make sure the oil doesn’t get too hot.

10 First, preheat a deep-fat fryer, or oil in a heavy-based pan, to 180°C/350°F. 11 Once the oil is up to temperature, use a fish slice to pick up each portion of dough, then carefully lower the dough into the fryer or pan, cooking each portion for around 60 seconds on each side, until golden brown in colour. 12 Remove the doughnuts from the oil with a pair of tongs and place them on a baking tray lined with a paper towel to soak up any excess oil. Leave to cool.

Donuts This recipe appears in Donuts by Vicky Graham (£10), published by Hardie Grant Books. Inside, you’ll find over 50 inventive – and surprisingly easy – doughnut recipes, plus plenty of tips. www.hardiegrant.com

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Baking 13 Preheat the oven to 220°C/430°F/Gas Mark 7. 14 To create steam, fill a roasting dish with boiling water and place it at the bottom of the oven. 15 Spray the doughnuts with oil – use three sprays per doughnut – and bake for six minutes. 16 Spray the doughnuts with oil again as soon as they come out the oven, then leave to cool. Finishing 17 Using a sharp knife, carefully remove the centre of each doughnut, making sure you leave a little layer of dough at the bottom to hold in the filling. 18 Place the doughnuts in a bowl with the sugar and toss to coat them. You might need to do this one by one for best results. 19 Fill the centre of each doughnut with your chosen chocolate beans.

20 To make the buttercream, whisk the butter using either a stand mixer or an electric whisk until pale and fluffy – for roughly two minutes. Add the icing sugar a spoonful at time, mixing in between each addition. 21 Melt the white chocolate either in the microwave for around one minute, or in a glass bowl over a pan filled with 5cm (2") water, on a low heat. Slowly pour the melted chocolate into the buttercream mixture, beating all the time. 22 Fold in the cream to soften it a little, then transfer the mixture to a piping bag, cutting an opening measuring approximately 2.5cm (1") in the tip of the bag. Twist the top of the bag closed to stop the buttercream from escaping. 23 Pipe a generous dollop of buttercream onto each of the doughnuts, then top with a scattering of sprinkles to finish.

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buNdle Of joY Wrap a little one in Emma Wrightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy-knit bunny blanket

HOW TO MAKE… A BUNNY BLANKET MATERIALS Q Erika Knight Gossypium Cotton, 100% cotton, 100m/109yd per 50g, eight balls in Sea Fret (501) (Yarn A) Q 4mm (UK 8, US 6) knitting needles, 40cm (15¾") long Q Small amount of black DK yarn (Yarn B) Q One fat quarter of Liberty Tana Lawn in Eloise B (ours was from www.alicecaroline.co.uk) Q Matching sewing thread Q Sewing needle Q A4 paper Q Yarn needle Q 6.5cm (25/8") pom pom maker TENSION 21 sts and 30 rows in st st to measure 10cm (4") using 4mm knitting needles

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ABBREVIATIONS (UK) st(s) stitch(es) k knit p purl k2tog knit 2 sts together (decrease 1 st) p3tog purl 3 sts together (decrease 2 sts) ssk slip one st, slip one st, knit slipped sts together (decrease 1 st) sk2po slip 1, k2tog, pass slipped st over (decrease 2 sts) garter st knit every row st st stocking stitch – knit one row, purl one row, repeated m1 make 1 st by knitting into the strand between 2 sts RS right side WS wrong side FINISHED SIZE Approx. 77 x 77cm (303/8")

A new arrival means making all the cute things, and this knitted bunny blanket (complete with adorable hood) is spot-on for spring bubbas. While it’s beautifully simple to make, it’s also brimming with lovely details – hello there, Liberty Tana Lawn ear lining and fluffy pom pom tail. Soft grey is our go-to neutral, but you could switch it for a pastel yarn or a buttery yellow, instead. Instructions The main baby blanket, corner hood and ears are made in pieces, then sewn together after. Blanket Using Yarn A and 4mm knitting needles, cast on 165 sts Row 1 (RS) k Rows 2-4 k Row 5 (RS) k Row 6 k2, p to last 2 sts, k2 Rows 5 and 6 repeated form st st with garter st edge, continue repeating these two rows until work measures 57cm (22½") from the cast on edge

Next row (RS) k Next row k2, p to end These two rows repeated form stocking st with garter st edge on left side only, continue repeating these rows until work measures 76cm (297/8") from the cast on edge and is RS facing for next row Next row (RS) k Next row k123, p42 Repeat these last 2 rows once more Next row (RS) k Cast off knit-wise Hood Using Yarn A and 4mm needles, cast on 61 sts Row 1 (RS) k Rows 2-4 k Now work in st st with decreases as follows: Row 5 (RS) k1, ssk, k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1 [59 sts] Row 6 p These 2 rows repeated form st st with decreases and are repeated until 5 sts remain and RS is facing Next row (RS) k1, sk2po, k1 [3 sts] Next row (WS) p3tog [1 st] Fasten off

Ears (make 2) Worked in garter st throughout. Using Yarn A and 4mm needles, cast on 7 sts Row 1 (RS) k Rows 2-4 k Next row (RS) k1, m1, k to last st, m1, k1 [9 sts] Work 3 rows of garter st Next row (RS) k1, m1, k to last st, m1, k1 [11 sts] Work 3 rows of garter st Next row (RS) k1, m1, k to last st, m1, k1 [13 sts] Now work straight in garter st until work measures approximately 12cm (4Âž") from the cast on edge, ending with RS facing Next row (RS) k1, ssk twice, k3, k2tog twice, k1 [9 sts]

Emma Wright Emma is a designer, and lives in Rotherham with her boyfriend, Lewis, and their Yorkshire terrier, Penny. Emma graduated in fashion knitwear and knitted textiles in 2014, and has been designing all things creative ever since. www.emmaknitted.co.uk

Next row k Next row (RS) k1, ssk, k3, k2tog, k1 [7 sts] Next row k Next row (RS) k1, ssk, k1, k2tog, k1 [5 sts] Next row k1, sk2po, k1 [3 sts] Next row (RS) sk2po [1 st] Fasten off Press and block all of the knitted pieces, referring to the yarn ball band for instructions. With WS together (st st on outsides), sew the hood to the RS of the blanket within the garter stitch edges using mattress stitch. Lining the ears Place a knitted ear piece onto the paper and draw around it to create a template. Use the template to cut out two ear inners from the fabric, ensuring you cut the fabric slightly smaller than the knitted ear. With RS together, use backstitch to sew the fabric ears inner to the knitted ears, leaving the cast on edge open. Turn the ears RS out and sew the fabric down at the cast on edge using running stitch.

Pin the ears to the seam of the hood and sew using mattress stitch, starting approximately 8cm (31/8") down each side of the centre point. To create a sharper point, catch the knitted fabrics together at the tip of each ear. Face Using Yarn B and backstitch, sew a 2cm (Âž") vertical line beginning above the garter stitch edge at the centre point of the hood. Using Yarn B and satin stitch, sew on a nose shape with a width of 1.5cm (5/8"). Continuing in Yarn B, place the first eye approximately 3.5cm (13/8") from the right side of nose and 5cm (2") up from the top of garter stitch edge. Bring the yarn up through the knitting and make a French knot. Repeat to make the second eye, approximately 3.5cm (13/8") from the left side of the nose. Finishing Make a pom pom with the pom pom maker and sew it to the corner of the blanket opposite the hood. 90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 95

JUST

£9.99* inc. P& P

Learn a new craft for the new year! With 164 pages of step-by-step tutorials and easy-to-follow patterns, Beginner’s Guide To Knitting & Crochet is the quickest way to get creative with yarn. From first stitches to beautiful finished projects, we’ll show you how!

ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY! Call 03330 162 138 and quote ‘Knitting & Crochet Print 1’ Online www.buysubscriptions.com/craftspecial Lines open weekdays 8am to 8pm 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.

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 BONUS GIFT

BY MICHELLE GALLETTA PAGE 7

As the pattern is not printed centrally on the fabric, use a small embroidery hoop to stitch it, or cut out the bunny front and pin it to a larger piece of scrap fabric. Alternatively, you can trace the template on page 101 onto your own fabric. Refer to the embroidery guide on page 98 and the stitch guide on page 99 throughout. 01 Place the pattern face up in the embroidery hoop. 02 Using three strands of brown thread and laid work, embroider on the basket weave. 03 Using one strand of thread and the embroidery guide for colour reference, use vertical

satin stitch to fill the carrots. Outline the top of each carrot first with a split stitch, and stitch all the carrots of the same colour before moving on to the next. 04 Couch the carrots’ satin stitches with single strand straight stitches, using the image on page 98 as a guide to colour. 05 Using two strands of brown thread, outline the basket with chain stitch. 06 Using one strand of green thread, following the diagram for the shade, use stem stitch for the longer stalks and straight stitches for the shorter tops and any small branches. 07 Use a strand of black thread to straight stitch the claws.

08 Use one strand of pink thread to chain stitch the arm outlines. 09 Using two strands of light purple thread, add French knots to the carrot flower stalks. 10 Use two strands of pink thread to chain stitch the outline. 11 With the embroidery still in the hoop, match the printed side of the backing piece of fabric to the embroidery with right sides (RS) together, and pin. 12 With the pieces still in the hoop, backstitch together using small stitches and white sewing thread – use the reverse side of the general outline chain stitch as a guide, sewing as close to it as possible without sewing through any of the chain stitches,

and leaving a 3cm (1¼") gap on one side for turning. 13 Remove from the hoop and cut around the pattern, leaving a 0.5cm (¼") seam allowance. Carefully clip the seam allowance around the ears and between the legs, then turn RS out, using a small paint brush or similar. Turn the ears out first, then smooth the fabric along the seams and press on the reverse. 14 To prevent stuffing going into the ears, make a small running stitch at the chain stitch along the base of the ears. Make a small knot on the inside to secure, or tuck the length inside. 15 Stuff the rabbit firmly, then ladder stitch the gap closed.

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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EMBROIDERY GUIDE

USE OUR HANDY EMBROIDERY GUIDE TO STITCH YOUR BONUS GIFT

GENERAL OUTLINE:

Chain stitch

NOSE:

Fly stitch BASKET AND ARM OUTLINES:

Chain stitch

CARROT TOPS AND SMALL BRANCHES:

EYES:

Satin stitch WHISKERS, MOUTH AND CLAWS:

Straight stitch

CARROT FLOWERS:

French knots

CARROTS:

Satin stitch, straight stitch

CARROT STALKS:

BASKET WEAVE:

CARROT OUTLINE:

Laid work

Stem stitch

Split stitch

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STITCH GUIDE

FOLLOW OUR HANDY STITCH GUIDE TO MAKE YOUR BONUS GIFT

C B

SPLIT STITCH Split stitch is used for thin outlines and as padding underneath satin stitch. Make a straight stitch from point A to point B. Bring the needle back through at point C, which is closer to point B than to point A. This will split the thread in half as the needle pulls through. Repeat to the end, finishing with a straight stitch.

SQUARE LAID WORK Laid work is a simple way to fill any shape using straight stitches. Begin by filling the shape with vertical or horizonal lines (A). Make a row of perpendicular stitches (B). In a uniform direction, make small diagonal stitches where the two sets of straight stitches intersect (C). Leave it as is, or make another series of diagonal stitches in the opposite direction to make a cross (D).

STEM STITCH STRAIGHT STITCH This is the simplest of all the stitches. The straight stitch is made of single, isolated stitches. They can be worked in a straight line, fill in a shape, or overlap each other.

Although it can take some practise, stem stitch is great for textured outlines. Come up from the back at point A, then go down at point B. Before pulling the stitch close to the fabric, come up at point C with the loose thread below the needle. Pull the thread taut, then repeat.

Thank you for making this project from Mollie Makes. We have requested specific permission from designers so that you can recreate and sell selected projects from this issue on the following conditions. Just look for this icon. You can individually hand make as many as you wish of our labelled projects, to sell either for yourself, your local event or to raise money for charity. You cannot sell in shops (online or otherwise) and you cannot go into mass production, which means you cannot manufacture in large quantities, especially by machine. Selling photocopies of any part of this magazine, its kits or supplements is prohibited. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind if you make a copy of the templates for a friend but please do not make any part of the templates or instructions available to others through your website or a third party website, or copy it multiple times without our permission. Please respect one anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s copyright.

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MAKES

C B

B A D

FRENCH KNOT This is an embroidery 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 A, then wrap the thread around the needle twice. Holding the working thread with your non-dominant hand, bring the needle down at point B (close to point A, but not the same hole) and pull slowly until the knot is formed.

Detached fly stitch

Closed fly stitch

FLY STITCH Bring the needle through the top left at point A. Catch the thread with your thumb and insert the needle to the right (point B) at the same height, a short distance away. Keeping some slack in the working thread, take a small stitch downwards and to the centre (point C) and keeping the working thread below the needle, pull through and insert the needle below the thread to anchor it (point D). Varying the distance between point C and point D will result in a longer or shorter tail.

SATIN STITCH When you want to fill an area with a smooth finish, this stitch is an ideal choice. It’s best worked in small areas because if the stitches are too long, they may snag. Fill in the area using straight stitches. Always work the stitches across the area you’re filling, coming up on the opposite side where your needle went down. Use the fabric’s woven texture as your guide to keep the stitches parallel.

CHAIN STITCH Bring the thread through the fabric and hold down with your left thumb. Go back through the same hole, still holding down the thread, and bring the needle back through a short distance away (0.25cm (1/8") or less). Remove your thumb and give a light tug to tighten the chain. Repeat. Shorten the distance between chain ‘links’ when going around curves for a smoother line.

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YOUR BONUS GIFT

BY MICHELLE GALLETTA PAGE 7 USE THIS TEMPLATE IF YOU WISH TO STITCH THE BUNNY ON YOUR OWN PIECE OF FABRIC

Thank you for making this project from Mollie Makes. We have requested specific permission from designers so that you can recreate and sell selected projects from this issue on the following conditions. Just look for this icon. You can individually hand make as many as you wish of our labelled projects, to sell either for yourself, your local event or to raise money for charity. You cannot sell in shops (online or otherwise) and you cannot go into mass production, which means you cannot manufacture in large quantities, especially by machine. Selling photocopies of any part of this magazine, its kits or supplements is prohibited. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind if you make a copy of the templates for a friend but please do not make any part of the templates or instructions available to others through your website or a third party website, or copy it multiple times without our permission. Please respect one anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s copyright.

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90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 101

MAKES

GLASS BAUBLES BY BECKI CLARK PAGE 31

Thank you for making this project from Mollie Makes. We have requested specific permission from designers so that you can recreate and sell selected projects from this issue on the following conditions. Just look for this icon. You can individually hand make as many as you wish of our labelled projects, to sell either for yourself, your local event or to raise money for charity. You cannot sell in shops (online or otherwise) and you cannot go into mass production, which means you cannot manufacture in large quantities, especially by machine. Selling photocopies of any part of this magazine, its kits or supplements is prohibited. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind if you make a copy of the templates for a friend but please do not make any part of the templates or instructions available to others through your website or a third party website, or copy it multiple times without our permission. Please respect one anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s copyright.

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EARRING BOARD

BY HESTER VAN OVERBEEK PAGE 16 Photocopy at 125%

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 donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind if you make a copy of the templates for a friend but please do not make any part of the templates or instructions available to others through your website or a third party website, or copy it multiple times without our permission. Please respect one anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s copyright.

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MAKES

FLORAL BANNER

BY LUCY DAVIDSON PAGE 18 Photocopy at 125%

Banner 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 donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind if you make a copy of the templates for a friend but please do not make any part of the templates or instructions available to others through your website or a third party website, or copy it multiple times without our permission. Please respect one anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s copyright.

104 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

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FLORAL BANNER

BY LUCY DAVIDSON PAGE 18

Petal Cut 8

Large leaf Cut 4

Small leaf Cut 24

Mollie Makes (ISSN 20460228) (USPS 20517) March 18 is published 14 times a year (monthly, with a Spring issue in March and a Christmas issue in November) by Immediate Media Company Bristol Ltd., Tower House, Fairfax St. Bristol BS1 3BN, United Kingdom. Distributed in the U.S. by NPS Media Group, 2 Corporate Dr., Suite 945, Shelton, CT 06484. Periodical Postage paid at Shelton, CT and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address change to Mollie Makes, 3330 Pacific Ave., Suite 500, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. Thank you for making this project from Mollie Makes. We have requested specific permission from designers so that you can recreate and sell selected projects from this issue on the following conditions. Just look for this icon. You can individually hand make as many as you wish of our labelled projects, to sell either for yourself, your local event or to raise money for charity. You cannot sell in shops (online or otherwise) and you cannot go into mass production, which means you cannot manufacture in large quantities, especially by machine. Selling photocopies of any part of this magazine, its kits or supplements is prohibited. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind if you make a copy of the templates for a friend but please do not make any part of the templates or instructions available to others through your website or a third party website, or copy it multiple times without our permission. Please respect one anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s copyright.

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90 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 105

How maker Rebecca Denton gives preloved textiles a new lease of life

Name: Rebecca Denton Occupation: Textile and pattern designer

Bec’s printed, recycled fabric earrings are light on the ear lobes

Hey, I’m Bec. I create embellished clothing and accessories using recycled fabrics. My work combines bold vinyl patterns that I design on Illustrator with found fabrics and vintage prints. Part of the appeal of working with second-hand materials is the challenge of taking something old and updating it, combining it with an unexpected colour or contrasting pattern to create something new. A typical embellishment might include appliqué panels, layering and stitching. I source fabrics from textile recycling centres, house clearances and charity shops

i look for colours and textures that work well with my vinyl patterns before washing and repurposing them. When fabric hunting, I look for colours and textures that could work well with my vinyl patterns, and for eye-catching prints. A recent favourite have been my clutch purses – these were cut from a tropical print housecoat I rescued from a flea market in France. I love what I do and being able to share that pleasure with others through my products makes me very happy!

Bright vinyl jewel shapes are a staple of Bec’s vibrant textile designs

Currents Visit Bec’s website at www.dakotaraedust.etsy.com to see more of her bright embellished creations. Check out her Instagram to see her latest fabric ﬁnds @dakotaraedust.

Next issue: Illustrator Jess Phoenix on branching out 106 MOLLIEMAKES.COM 90

Thinking about: Sustainability. For tips on how and where to consume more consciously, I visit Rosie Drake Knight’s blog. Eating: Veggie queen Anna Jones’ dhal – you’ve got to try it. Listening to: A little bit of reggae by Hollie Cook.

Re ad er

dis co un t

11-13 May 2018 Ragley Hall, Warwickshire

22-24 June 2018 Bowood House, Wiltshire

Your ultimate creative day out! Join Kirstie Allsopp and her experts for a weekend of creativity and inspiration. See big names and famous faces, take part in hands-on creative workshops, indulge in delicious food and drink, plus shop for unique handmade items from over 150 exhibitors. Book tickets by March 28th and SAVE UP TO £8 on tickets*

Liz Earle Bowood House

Skills Workshop Bowood House

Keith Brymer Jones Ragley Hall

Sewing Masterclass Ragley Hall

Visit thehandmadefair.com quoting MOLLIEMAKES Official partners *Booking fees apply. £8 saving based on VIP Tickets or save £4.50 on Full Experience tickets. Offer Ends March 28th. VIP and Full Experience ticket includes entry into the fair, one Super Theatre session, one Skills Workshop and one Grand Make session. For full VIP benefits visit www.thehandmadefair.com

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EASY SPRING UPDATES AND IDEAS TO INSPIRE

BOHO BOTANICAL NEW TECHNIQUES • FRESH DIYS • TRENDS • STYLING TIPS GET THE LOOK make all these projects!

NATURAL HOMESTYLE There’s something so cathartic about styling your home for the new season; packing away those chunky blankets and ﬁnally coming out of hibernation. This year, welcome spring with open arms, creating a light, airy space and inviting the outdoors in with natural materials and makes. Crochet baskets from raffia, use organic dyes to give fabrics a soft hue, and combine tactile textures and plants galore for a retro, bohemian vibe. This little book is packed with ways to craft the Boho Botanical trend, using new techniques – and contemporary twists on old ones – to give your interiors a relaxed, fresh feel. The Mollie Makes team x

EASY SPRING UPDATES AND IDEAS TO INSPIRE

Use raffia to crochet a storage basket. Page 21

Sew a naturaldyed runner. Page 14

Create original wall art with texture. Page 10

Shop the Boho Botanical trend. Page 4

Simple DIYs and styling ideas. Page 6

BOHO BOTANICAL

PHOTOGRAPHY: WWW.ANTHROPOLOGIE.COM

A laid-back, natural aesthetic that draws on retro influences. Get the look with an eclectic mix of organic materials, leafy greenery and texture-rich fabrics in soft neutrals.

BOHO BOTANICAL MOLLIEMAKES.COM 3

Pair leafy houseplants with Berber-style handmade textiles. www. bohemiadesign.co.uk

THIS MONTH WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE OBSESSING ABOUT...

BOHO BOTANICAL Give your home a natural vibe with maximum texture and greenery

4 MOLLIEMAKES.COM BOHO BOTANICAL

Creative houseplant

storage done right – ten points to Bloomingville. www.bloomingville.com 02

Introduce accents of

blush pink to lift the look. www.dassieartisan.com 03

So, we’re officially

excited about salad now. www.oliverbonas.com 04

Meet Powder Box,

your new favourite colour. www.arhoj.com 05

When creased and

crumpled is king. www.

thefuturekept.com 06

Cloud-like roving and

delicious fringing – our dream combo. www. sunwovenstudio.com 07

One simple tasselled

cushion = instant boho. www2.hm.com 08

Treat your toes to a

vintage Moroccan rug. www.loomandfield.com 09

Did we say tassels?

You’ll need tassels. www.

maisonsdumonde.com

BOHO BOTANICAL MOLLIEMAKES.COM 5

OU R PICK O F

NATURAL HOMESTYLE

Pile your bed with tactile linens in calm neutrals. www. anthropologie.com

6 MOLLIEMAKES.COM BOHO BOTANICAL

String up wooden baskets and beads to make hanging storage. www. thelovelydrawer.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: TERI MUNCEY. FIND THE TUTORIAL AT WWW.THELOVELYDRAWER.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY: DIY STYLING BOOK, GREEN LEAVES

Snip paper leaves in different shapes and sizes to create botanical wall art. www.studioroof.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: HELENA STEELE AND MATILDA SMITH; FLAT RATTAN ARMED CHAIR, OPEN WEAVE SEAGRASS BASKET AND FAUX POTTED MONSTERA FROM WWW.COXANDCOX.CO.UK

Retro neutrals Channel carefree boho vibes with Lindsey Newnsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; crochet cushion

HOW TO MAKE… A CROCHET CUSHION MATERIALS Q Knitcraft Leader of the Pac Aran Yarn, 90% acrylic/10% alpaca, 170m/185yd per 100g, two balls each in Cream (Yarn A) and Mink (Yarn B) Q 6mm (UK 4, US J/10) crochet hook Q 8 x 10cm (31/8 x 4") piece of cardboard Q 45 x 45cm (17¾ x 17¾") cushion pad Q Yarn needle

ABBREVIATIONS st(s) stitch(es) ch chain ss slip stitch dc double crochet tr treble ls loop stitch FINISHED SIZE Each cushion panel should measure approx. 47 x 47cm (18½ x 18½")

TENSION 15 sts and 8 rows to measure 10 x 10cm (4 x 4") worked in double crochet

Lindsey Newns Lindsey commissions all the lovely projects that fill Mollie Makes’ pages, and is also a crochet designer with a love of colourful, modern makes. Find her on Instagram @lottieandalbert. www.lottieandalbert.blogspot.com

8 MOLLIEMAKES.COM BOHO BOTANICAL

Pull together an eclectic aesthetic with a textured statement piece – think tassels, knots and neutrals. Rugs and wall hangings score pretty highly in the nomad style stakes, but it’s this cushion that’s got us simultaneously dreaming of souks and delving deep into our yarn stash. Inspired by Moroccan textiles, the loop stitch also gives it impressive 70s credentials. Find the chart for this crochet pattern on page 26. Loop stitch The loops are formed on the ‘back’ of the work and so the stitches are always worked on the wrong side (WS) rows. To form a loop stitch, wrap the yarn from front to back over the index finger of your yarn hand. Insert hook into stitch and bring the yarn under the hook, keeping your finger in place. Grab the strand of yarn from behind your index finger and draw the loop through the stitch, still keeping your finger in place. You should now have two loops on the hook, and a loop of yarn wrapped around your index finger. Yarn over hook as

normal, and pull through both the loops on the hook. The loop stitch is now formed. When making loop stitches, always check to see they’re the same length while you’re working the row – don’t check at the end of a row in case you need to pull back stitches to correct the loops. Once you’ve worked a few stitches, you’ll begin to get the loops consistent. Instructions The cushion is made in two panels, which are then crocheted or sewn together at the end. The front panel will have a WS and a right side (RS), with loop stitches formed when working on the WS. Turning chain (the ch1 or ch3 at the start of a row) does not count as a stitch throughout. When changing colour, always do so on the last yarn round hook of the previous stitch. A chart is included on page 26 for the cushion front, which shows the yarn colours and sts to use. Once you’ve set up the first few rows of the cushion front, follow the chart. Before you start, wind off about a quarter of a ball of Yarn A for the

centre colour block from Row 39 to 56 of the front panel. Cushion front (make 1) Follow the chart on page 26. Foundation using Yarn A, ch64 Row 1 (RS) 1dc in 2nd ch from hook and in each st along, turn [63sts] Row 2 (WS) ch1, 1ls in each st (shown by an X on the chart), turn Row 3 (RS) ch1, 1dc in each st along, turn Rows 4-20 continue to work in dc and ls following the chart, turning at the end of each row and chaining at the start Introduce Yarn B on Row 21 as follows: Row 21 (RS) ch1, 31dc in Yarn A, 1dc in Yarn B, 31dc in Yarn A, turn Remember when changing colour to do so on the last yarn round hook of the previous st. When carrying your unused yarn, let it hang loosely at the WS of the work before picking it up to work on the next row – don’t pull it too tight. Where there’s more than one block of a colour on a row, use the second ball of yarn for the second block of colour. On Rows 39 to 56, there will be two blocks of Yarn B

and three blocks of Yarn A, so use the small ball of Yarn A wound off for the centre block. Row 22 (WS) ch1, 14ls in Yarn A, 17dc in Yarn A, 1ls in Yarn B, 17dc in Yarn A, 14ls in Yarn A, turn Rows 23-76 continue to work in dc and ls following the chart, changing colour where shown and turning at the end of each row and chaining at the start Row 77 ch1, 1dc in each st along, fasten off using ss Sew in ends. Cushion back (make 1) Foundation using Yarn B, ch56 loosely Row 1 1tr in 4th ch from hook and in each st across, turn [53sts] Row 2 ch3, 1tr in each st along, turn Rows 3-34 repeat Row 2 Fasten off using ss. Sew in ends. Tassels (make 4) Using Yarn B and the piece of cardboard, wrap the yarn around the width of the cardboard 60 times. Keep the yarn taut, but not so tight it warps the card. Cut a long length of Yarn B and

thread it underneath all the wraps at the top of the cardboard. Tie it around the bundle twice, as tightly as possible. Slide the wrapped yarn off the card gently and cut a second long length of Yarn B. Tie this yarn a quarter of the way down from the tied top end of the bundle. Knot twice to secure, as tightly as possible, then wrap the yarn around the tassel a few times, tying to secure each time. Holding the top of the tassel, cut through the loops at the bottom, pulling the yarn taut. Trim to create a flat base to the tassel. Finishing Place the panels with RS together, and using Yarn A, dc or whipstitch around the outside of the two panels, being careful to tuck any loops out of the way. Leave a gap for inserting the cushion pad. Attach the four tassels at the corners by tying the two long strands of yarn through the gaps between two sts. Turn the cushion cover RS out, insert the cushion pad, then dc or whipstitch the gap closed. BOHO BOTANICAL MOLLIEMAKES.COM 9

Hanging garden

PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: HELENA STEELE AND MATILDA SMITH

Indulge your love of houseplants with Helen Wildeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next-level embroidery

10 MOLLIEMAKES.COM BOHO BOTANICAL

BOHO BOTANICAL MOLLIEMAKES.COM 11

HOW TO MAKE… AN EMBROIDERED TERRARIUM MATERIALS Q Embroidery hoop, 15cm (6") Q 25 x 25cm (97/8 x 97/8") neutral cotton or linen fabric Q Embroidery thread (we used DMC stranded cotton in 3346 (green), 164 (light green), 3347 (dark green) and 317 (grey) and Anchor stranded cotton in 890 (sand), 309 (light brown) and 355 (dark brown))

Q Embroidery needle Q Matching sewing thread Q Glue gun Q 180g Italian crepe paper in dark green Q Circle of card, 2.5cm (1") diameter Q Scrap paper

12 MOLLIEMAKES.COM BOHO BOTANICAL

Our succulent obsession shows no sign of abating, and we know we’re not the only ones. Join us in letting that crazy plant lady flag fly, and stitch a terrarium like no other with this amazing threedimensional design, combining paper and thread to create texture. Use six strands of embroidery thread, unless stated otherwise, and visit www.molliemakes.com for an embroidery stitch guide. 01 Secure the fabric between the two hoops. Place a ruler vertically down the centre of the fabric, then make a mark at 1cm (3/8") and at 14cm (5½"). While the ruler is still in place, make another mark at 10cm (4"). Measure and mark 5cm (2") out horizontally at either side of

the 10cm (4") mark, then join the dots with lines to create two triangle shapes. 02 Position the card circle on the line between the triangles and draw around it. This will mark where the paper succulent is placed, and should be kept free of any embroidery stitches. 03 Using three strands of grey embroidery thread, backstitch over the drawn lines to create the outline for the terrarium. 04 Create templates for the leaves by drawing leaf shapes onto scrap paper and cutting them out. Arrange them on the fabric and draw around them once you’re happy with the placement. Draw on spiky leaf fronds above the marked circle for the paper succulent.

05 Using satin stitch, embroider the leaves using dark green thread for the lower leaves, green thread for the central leaves and light green thread for the upper leaves. 06 Use straight stitch and green thread to embroider the spiky fronds, adding one or two small couching stitches on each spike. 07 Fill the lower triangle with French knots, wrapping the thread around the needle seven or eight times to complete each stitch. Use dark brown thread for the bottom and middle, and both light brown thread and sand thread at the top. 08 For the succulent, cut out 25 8 x 2cm (31/8 x ¾") strips of crepe paper, making sure the grain of the paper runs along the length. Shape each strip by holding it at both

ends and twisting twice until it resembles a bow shape. 09 Twist the strip again so the two halves sit on top of each other, then use the glue gun to dot glue in between. Press together, curving them towards you to create a cupped shape, as shown. Repeat with the other strips, then cut each one into an oval leaf shape. 10 Mark the centre of the card circle. Add glue to the cut end of

one leaf, then stick it to the centre mark, with the twisted edge facing outwards. Repeat, overlapping each leaf slightly to create a large outer circle, then work smaller circles inside this outer one, building up the succulent layers to a point at the centre. 11 Glue the paper succulent to the empty circle marked on the fabric. Trim the excess fabric at the back of the hoop and glue it in place.

Helen Wilde Helen works from her Derbyshire home, with her husband and two dogs. She’s a decorative arts graduate and has worked in design for years, but it wasn’t until recently, when Ovo Bloom was born, that she found her passion. www.instagram.com/ovobloom

BOHO BOTANICAL MOLLIEMAKES.COM 13

14 MOLLIEMAKES.COM BOHO BOTANICAL

Laid-back living

PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: HELENA STEELE AND MATILDA SMITH

Add natural beauty to your table by sewing Alicia Hallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hand-dyed runner

BOHO BOTANICAL MOLLIEMAKES.COM 15

HOW TO MAKE… A TABLE RUNNER MATERIALS Q Plain cotton drill fabric; four 8 x 42cm (31/8 x 16½") pieces and one 125 x 42cm (49¼ x 16½") piece Q Plain cotton velvet fabric; two 27 x 42cm (105/8 x 16½") pieces Q Unbleached natural cotton fringing, 85cm (33½"), 2.5cm (1") wide Q Pink sewing thread Q Soya milk Q Six avocado stones

What better setting could there be for your weekend brunch than a table runner dyed with avocado stones? It somehow makes total sense this natural dye produces the softest millennial pink shade, too. Subtlety is the beauty of this project, layering together gentlyfrayed cotton and velvet, and finishing with soft natural fringing. 01 Prewash the fabrics, as the processes used in manufacturing often leave an invisible coating, affecting how they absorb dye. 02 Next, the fabrics will need to be mordanted – this is a process which helps the dye stick to the fabric. Pour a mixture of one part soya

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milk and two parts water into a bowl, and leave the fabric soaking in it for at least 12 hours, stirring it a couple of times. 03 Once the fabrics have finished soaking, squeeze out the excess soya milk solution and put them on a spin cycle in the washing machine. Leave to air dry. 04 To make the dye, fill a large saucepan with five litres of water and all six avocado stones. Heat it to a gentle simmer for an hour, then turn off the heat and leave the stones in overnight. 05 Remove the stones from the saucepan, then place the cotton drill and cotton velvet fabric pieces into the pan of dye. Heat it to a

simmer, then check the colour of the fabric – the longer you leave it in the dye, the stronger the shade will become. When you’re happy with the results, remove the fabric pieces, squeeze out the excess dye and leave to dry. If drying inside, hang over an old towel to avoid staining the floor. 06 Once dry, trim any loose pieces along the frayed edges of the fabrics to neaten. This fraying will become a feature of the runner, so don’t trim it off completely. 07 Place one small cotton drill piece on top of another, aligning the short edges and overlapping the lengths by 2cm (¾"). Pin just up from the top frayed edge, then sew

using pink thread. Repeat with the remaining small cotton drill pieces. 08 Align the long edges of the two sewn cotton pieces with the two short edges of the large cotton piece, making sure all frayed edges are facing away from the centre, and the large piece is overlapping the smaller pieces by 2cm (Âž"), as before. Pin just up from the frayed edges, then sew using pink thread. 09 Fold one long edge on each of the cotton velvet pieces to the wrong right (WS) by approximately 1cm (3/8"). Pin in place, then sew. 10 Position one short edge of the sewn cotton drill runner so it overlaps the folded long edge on one velvet piece by 1cm (3/8"). Pin

and sew, then repeat at the other end of the table runner with the second velvet piece. 11 To hem the two long edges of the table runner, fold the fabric to the WS by 1cm (3/8"), then again by 1cm (3/8"). Pin along both long edges to secure in place, and sew. 12 Pin a length of fringing to one short end of the runner with right

sides together, leaving 1cm (3/8") overhanging at either side. Sew as close to the edge of the fabric as possible, then repeat at the other end of the runner. 13 Fold these seams to the WS, and top stitch along the short edges at either end of the runner to secure them in place, tucking in the edges of the fringing as you go.

Alicia Hall Alicia originally trained in fashion design, but now works as a gardener, and lives in Wiltshire with her husband and two cats. In her spare time she runs her small business, Botanical Threads, dyeing fabrics with plants. www.botanicalthreads.co.uk

BOHO BOTANICAL MOLLIEMAKES.COM 17

G E T T H E L AT E S T I S S U E ! WELLBEING

PA P E R A R TS

C R E AT I V I T Y

TRAVEL

YOGA

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*

SPRING

2017

EXTRAS 10 MINI EUROPEAN HOUSES TO FOLD 4 EXCLUSIVE YOGA PRINTS 6 CITY-INSPIRED CARDS & ENVELOPES 3 SEED PACKET BOOKMARKS

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Keep track of Build a mini good ideas with European street our pull-out scene with cutwall planner. out templates.

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 7 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.

Green spaces

Make Hester van Overbeek’s simple plant stand set

HOW TO MAKE… PLANT STANDS MATERIALS Q Two 30 x 20cm (117/8 x 77/8") wooden boxes Q Two wooden broom handles Q Saw Q Wood file or rotary tool Q Sandpaper Q Drill Q 4mm (1/8") drill bit Q Wood glue Q Screwdriver Q Eight screws

Cultivate a corner of lush greenery in your home with a pair of tall planters made from salvaged wood. You could fill them with vases or magazines of course, but why pass up the chance to show off your leafy lovelies? These handcrafted stands are so simple to make, and with the added bonus of a bit of height, they’d be great for displaying your trailing pot plants. Hester sourced her wooden storage boxes online, but you could also use vintage crates, too. 01 Measure, then saw, one broom handle into four 20cm (77/8") pieces, and the remaining broom handle into four 28cm (11") pieces.

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02 Round off the feet of the broom handle pieces using a wood file or rotary tool, then smooth the edges with the sandpaper to create a softly rounded shape. 03 Turn the wooden boxes over. On the underside, mark four holes, 2cm (¾") in from each corner. Drill a hole at each mark. 04 Pre-drill a small hole in the centre of the non-rounded

end of each cut piece of broom handle. The drilled holes need to be 0.5cm (¼") deep. 05 Starting with the shorter legs and one box, apply wood glue around the pre-drilled hole on one leg, then screw in place from the inside of the box. Repeat with the remaining three legs, then repeat the process with the second box. Leave the glue to dry before using.

Reader offer This project appears in Made with SalvagedWood by Hester van Overbeek (£12.99), published by CICO Books. To buy for just £9.99, including free UK P&P, call 01256 302699 and quote code LU1. Offer ends 28th March 2018. www.makeetc.com

Natural habitat

BOHO BOTANICAL MOLLIEMAKES.COM 21

PHOTOGRAPHY: PHILIP SOWELS; STYLING: HELENA STEELE AND MATILDA SMITH

Use jute and raffia to crochet a basket â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Emily Ashbourn shows you how

HOW TO MAKE… A RAFFIA BASKET MATERIALS Q 100% unwaxed natural jute cord or sash, 20m (22yd), 8mm (3/8") wide (ours was from www. ebay.co.uk) Q Raffia paper ribbon, 7mm (3/8") wide, 200m (218yd) each in natural (Yarn A) and white (Yarn B) (ours was from www.ebay.co.uk) Q DMC Petra 3, 100% cotton, 280m/306yd per 100g, one ball in pink (5224) (Yarn C) Q 5mm (UK 6, US H/8) crochet hook Q Electrical tape Q Stitch marker TENSION Tension isn’t essential for this project, though a slightly tight tension helps. We worked 7 rounds and 16 sts to 10cm (4"). Keep the spike stitches

tight to prevent the sides of the basket sagging ABBREVIATIONS st(s) stitch(es) ch chain ss slip stitch dc double crochet sp1 spike stitch over 1 round; a spike st is an elongated dc worked in rows or rounds below where you would normally work, in this case work into the st 2 rounds below yrh yarn round hook rep repeat FINISHED SIZE Approx. 28 x 23cm (11 x 91/8"), excluding handles

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Picking up where the belly basket left off, this woven-look wonder acts as that extra bit of space you might need to house craft supplies, toys, or an indoor plant. The crocheted spike stitches keep it sturdy, and the dip-dye effect is created by a simple colour change. Functional, easy on the eye and made using natural materials, it’s got boho style nailed. Instructions The basket is worked by crocheting with the raffia over the cord, starting in the centre of the base, working in a continuous round in a circle, then working upwards. To prepare the cord, find the end of the sash cord and spiral the end into a tight circle. Using the electrical tape, secure the end to make a loop, as shown above. Basket Attach Yarn B by tying it onto the sash cord. Round 1 insert hook into the

middle of the cord loop, yrh, pull up a loop, yrh pull through loop on hook (this makes 1st dc st), work another 15dc over the cord and electrical tape into the loop [16 sts] Round 2 continuing to work in a spiral, work 2dc into each st, working over the sash cord as you go [32 sts] Insert a stitch marker at the end of the round to keep your place and move it up as you work, continuing to work all rounds over the cord and into each raffia st. Round 3 *2dc into next st, 1dc into next st; rep from * to end of round [48 sts] Round 4 *2dc into next st, 1dc into each of next 2 sts; rep from * to end of round [64 sts] Round 5 *2dc into next st, 1dc into each of next 3 sts; rep from * to end of round [80 sts] Round 6 *2dc into next st, 1dc into each of next 4 sts; rep from * to end of round [96 sts] Round 7 *2dc into next st, 1dc into each of next 5 sts; rep from * to

end of round [112 sts] Round 8 *2dc into next st, 1dc into each of next 6 sts; rep from * to end of round [128 sts] Round 9 *2dc into next st, 1dc into each of next 7 sts; rep from * to end of round [144 sts] Round 10 *2dc into next st, 1dc into each of next 8 sts; rep from * to end of round [160 sts] The work should measure just under 30cm (117/8") in diameter after this round. This forms the base of the basket. To build up the sides, turn the work so the right side (RS) of the sts face down. Start laying the sash cord on top of the outer round and continue to coil it around as you work sts over it. Round 11 *1dc into each of next 9sts, sp1; rep from * to end of round Rounds 12-14 as Round 11 Round 15 change to Yarn A, repeat Round 11 Rounds 16-25 as Round 11 Round 26 continuing to follow

the spike st pattern, 1dc or sp1 in each st up to and including the 1st sp1, ss into each of the next 30 sts (leaving the sash cord unworked and pulling it up gently to form the handle, using the image as a guide), 1dc or sp1 into each of the next 50 sts, working over the sash cord as you go, ss into each of the next 30 sts (leaving the sash cord unworked and pulling it up gently to form the second handle), 1dc or sp1 into each of the next 10 sts working over the sash cord. Cut the cord at an angle, 1dc over the end of the cord leaving the last 29 sts unworked. Cut the raffia and fasten off, then weave in the raffia end.

Handles Cut a 2m (2yd) length of Yarn A. Tie the end of the raffia to the handle leaving a long tail, then wind the raffia around the handle, covering the tail as you go. At the end of the handle, weave the end under the sts. Repeat on the second handle. Tassels Wrap Yarn C around your hand 35 times, then tie the bundle tight with a 7.5cm (3") length of yarn. Wrap yarn around the tassel about 1.5 cm (5/8") down from the tied point, knot to secure, and weave in the end. Trim the tassel ends and tie it onto the basket, two rounds below the handle. Repeat twice more.

Emily Ashbourn Emily is a crochet designer from East Sussex. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been crafting all her life, and her mad love affair with crochet began eight years ago. Emily designs from the heart, inspired by trends and her love of adventure. www.makeeshop.com

BOHO BOTANICAL MOLLIEMAKES.COM 23

Freshly baked Rustle up Emma Mitchellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s zingy lemon bars for elevenses

24 MOLLIEMAKES.COM BOHO BOTANICAL

HOW TO MAKE… LEMON BARS INGREDIENTS Makes 12-15 bars For the shortbread base Q 200g (7oz) butter, softened Q 95g (3oz) golden caster sugar or light soft brown sugar Q 200g (7oz) plain flour Q 60g (2oz) cornflour Q 35g (1oz) polenta (if you don’t have polenta, use a total of 95g (3oz) of cornflour) For the lemon topping Q 3 large eggs, lightly whisked Q 4 lemons, juiced and zested Q 180g (6oz) golden caster sugar or light soft brown sugar Q 25g (1oz) plain flour Q 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves Q 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

Buttery, lemon-topped shortbread warm from the oven is the ultimate treat for a slow weekend. Plus, you’ll score seasonal produce points, as citrus fruits are at their best right now. This simple recipe is brimming with fresh, fragrant thyme and ginger, providing heaps of natural tangy flavour, and plenty of immunity-boosting goodness. 01 Line the baking tray with baking parchment and preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4. 02 Whisk or beat the softened butter and sugar together in a bowl until pale and fluffy – this should take two to three minutes. 03 Add the flour, cornflour and polenta, and stir into the creamed

butter and sugar until the mixture forms a firm dough. 04 Push the shortbread mixture into the lined baking tin with your fingers, working it up the sides a little, so it forms a uniform layer on the base and has a lip of shortbread around the edge. This will encase the lemon topping and prevent it from seeping over the edges of the shortbread. Smooth the surface of the dough with the back of a spoon. Bake the shortbread for 15 minutes until just golden, then set to one side. 05 Place the lightly whisked eggs and lemon juice into a small bowl and beat them together. 06 Add the zest, sugar and flour for the lemon topping to a large measuring jug, or a bowl with a lip,

and mix together. Make a well in the centre and, using a sieve, strain the lemon juice and egg mixture into it while whisking continually, until everything is well combined. Add the ginger and mix to distribute. 07 To prevent the lemon mixture from spilling over the edge of the shortbread, open the oven, pull out the shelf and place the baking tray onto it. Pour the lemon mixture into the shortbread case and scatter the thyme leaves on top. Gently push the shelf in, then bake for a further 10-15 minutes until just set with a slight wobble. 08 Cut the finished bake into slices and eat warm as a pudding, or leave to cool, store in an airtight container, and enjoy with a cuppa.

EQUIPMENT Q 32 x 22 x 3cm (125/8 x 8¾ x 1¼") baking tray Q Baking parchment Q Bowl Q Whisk Q Large measuring jug Q Sieve

Making Winter This recipe appears in Making Winter: A Creative Guide for Surviving theWinter Months by Emma Mitchell (£14.99), published by LOM Art. www.mombooks.com

BOHO BOTANICAL MOLLIEMAKES.COM 25

MAKES

TEMPLATES CROCHET CUSHION BY LINDSEY NEWNS PAGE 7

KEY Yarn A

FIND A BIGGER PRINTABLE AT molliemakes.com

Yarn B

Loop stitch

WS RS

Thank you for making this project from Mollie Makes. We have requested specific permission from designers so that you can recreate and sell selected projects from this issue on the following conditions. Just look for this icon. You can individually hand make as many as you wish of our labelled projects, to sell either for yourself, your local event or to raise money for charity. You cannot sell in shops (online or otherwise) and you cannot go into mass production, which means you cannot manufacture in large quantities, especially by machine. Selling photocopies of any part of this magazine, its kits or supplements is prohibited. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind if you make a copy of the templates for a friend but please do not make any part of the templates or instructions available to others through your website or a third party website, or copy it multiple times without our permission. Please respect one anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s copyright.

26 MOLLIEMAKES.COM BOHO BOTANICAL

WITH THANKS TO...

Emily Ashbourn Emily dreamed of being a serious artist or designer, but serious isn’t in her nature – when she’s not crocheting, she’s busy adventuring. www.makeeshop.com

Hester van Overbeek Hester has a passion for DIY and power tools. Her new book, Made with Salvaged Wood, is full of makes now displayed in her home. www.makeetc.com

READER OFFER

Emma Mitchell Designer-maker Emma is a nature lover, and wrote her project-filled book, Making Winter, to inspire readers to craft with the seasons. www.mombooks.com

Alicia Hall Alicia is now a gardener, but she once wanted to be a hot air balloon pilot, and is often spotted waving to those passing overhead. www.botanicalthreads.co.uk

Buy Made with Salvaged Wood, published by CICO Books, for just £9.99 including free UK P&P (RRP £12.99) by calling 01256 302 699 and quoting LU1.

Editorial team Editor (on maternity leave) Cath Dean, Acting Editor Yvette Streeter, Senior Art Editor Helena Steele, Commissioning Editor Lindsey Newns, Production Editor Becca Parker, Deputy Art Editor Matilda Smith, Digital Editor (on maternity leave) Nina Dyer, Acting Digital Editor Hannah Carr, Picture Editor Emma Georgiou

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EASY SPRING UPDATES AND IDEAS TO INSPIRE

BOHO BOTANICAL NEW TECHNIQUES • FRESH DIYS • TRENDS • STYLING TIPS The team behind Mollie Makes brings you this beautifully designed Boho Botanical project book. Championing natural textures, leafy greenery and laid-back retro influences, it’s filled with styling ideas for the new season and easy-to-follow DIY projects. Learn new craft techniques, freshen up your home and bake treats with Helen Wilde, Hester van Overbeek, Lindsey Newns, Alicia Hall, Emily Ashbourn and Emma Mitchell. Embrace boho vibes, Mollie-style!