CRAFTfest

CRAFTfest 2011                     

The time is fast approaching, Christmas is not far away, why not get some truly unique gifts this year.

CRAFTfest hosts a range of handmade items and supplies for sale over the 26^th and 27^th November: http://creative-connections.ning.com/page/craftfest-home

This event allows you to explore the crafters world and just how much talent there is out there with some really beautiful creations- available from sellers all year round.

This is the first time I am taking part in such an online event and I’m excited to see what people think of my designs and also to take a look myself for some lovingly hand crafted gifts- hopefully I’ll even be able to treat myself!

Out of the huge array of people listing their crafts, here are a few:

Hi I'm Gayle owner at Happy Hands Belcoo.

I create hand crafted Bridal Accessories and Venue decor. I believe that the most special day in you life should leave you with more than a photo album. I work hard on creating memorable keepsakes for you to treasure for the rest of your days. My bouquets define my work and the Bride and Groom. I believe that you should have your day your way. Your day should show the couple you are and the beautiful blend of two personalities joined together forever. We have developed this concept into all our bespoke products so your wedding accessories and decor become cherished keepsakes.

www.happyhandsbelcoo.com
www.facebook.com/happyhandsbelcoo
www.blogtv.com/people/happyhands
www.blogspot.com/happyhandsbelcoo

Perfect Patchwork is based in Devon in the Southwest of England, where we pride ourselves on the individuality of our work. All our products are made from the finest 100% cotton patchwork fabrics, and designer yarns.

We design many of the products ourselves and are proud to carry an extensive range from handicraft items, household goods and beautiful quilts, from baby sizes to king size. We are happy to design a quilt of your choice at no extra charge. 

If you require something specific that you cannot find on our website please contact us at  admin@perfectpatchwork.co.uk 

I'm Alyson and I love fabric and needlework.  I make all sorts of things and sell them on my website Creative Stitching.  I'm glad I'm in the lilac group as thats my favourite colour!

My website is http://www.creative-stitching.co.uk/ 

Here are some links to the other fabulous crafters that are at CRAFTfest:

 http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Little-Button-Company/22322143440

 www.personal-space-interiors.co.uk

http://allthingsblankets.weebly.com/blog.html 

http://www.crystalclarke.com

http://www.facebook.com/#!/madaboutbags

http://www.aingealdesigns.co.uk
http://www.groovycart.co.uk/just_k_jewellery
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Handmade-by-Zenia/115413615145511
www.facebook.com/butterflybessie
www.handmadebyclare.co.uk
www.sunnysue.co.uk
 http://www.missnovadesigns.com/
http://www.randomeyesboutique.co.uk

And not forgetting www.cheshirecatcrafts/shops.folksy.com

www.etsy.com/shop/thecheshirecatcraft

Other Blogs on CRAFTfest:

http://www.handmadewithpassion.co.uk/handmade-blog/

http://perfectpatchwork.blogspot.com/  

And remember crafts aren’t just for Christmas – enjoy them all year round!

The Vintage Appeal

One of the fashions that does not seem to die out, is the vintage style, whether it be clothes, jewellery or home styling there is always a demand for a vintage look.

I myself find looking back at old fashions fun, you get a chance to imagine left back when and to see the development of personal/home styling through the ages. I do enjoy rummaging around at antique fairs and buying things to re-style the home, and more so, bits that I can re-use to create beautiful crafts- mostly vintage jewellery, of which I continue to build on.

I have recently listed some vintage bits on folksy- including these simple, but elegant earrings:

http://www.folksy.com/items/2371397-Vintage-Style-Glass-Pearl-Earrings?shop=yes

I am also currently loving the new series of Downton Abbey- as great as the story and acting is, I can’t help looking at the wonderful costumes and accessories they wear.

The other great thing about looking back at fashion, you seem to notice more so the dodgy fashions that sneaked through into many people’s wardrobes…even I have a few faux pars -  you live and learn!

Lets get crafting

I'm sure people out there who have crafting as a full business are already in full swing making items ready for December...

I have had a few projects I have finally got around to doing and I'm making my way to getting supplies and making gifts/new shop products etc. I'm also looking forward to the NEC craft show- great for your supplies and getting ideas or even finding new crafts to try!

It's always tricky thinking of new ideas for crafting, but I feel quietly confident about some of my ideas and I hope everyone else will like them too...so I better get cracking!