Our summer party was a roaring success and we want to say a huge thank you to all our party people for making it happen!
The sun was shining and so many talented crafters, makers and appreciators turned up to the summer solstice. It was so much fun to bring the crafty community altogether! From live workshops, makers market stalls and a new pattern launch, not to mention the raffle and *delicious* cake from Porter House and The Blending Room’s delectable coffee.
In good spirits, for a great cause
The event was in support of Mind UK - which is an amazing charity that gives support and advice to help empower people with mental health problems. 20% of every sale made at the party and 100% of the raffle went to Mind. We managed to raise a £200 for the charity, which will help the Mind team ensure that people suffering from mental health problems get the recognition and respect they deserve. So thank you again!
Let’s talk about our crafters!...
We had six creative craftspeople gracing us with their unique skills and expertise. The live jewellery repair, printmaking and hand embroidery were a particular highlight.
Jessica Grady
The most vibrant and original embroidery artist we’ve seen for a while. Jess uses mixed media to create layered and textured work from recycled materials. Jess ran a live workshop here, creating mini embroidery hoops using old embroidery pieces. In her own words, Jessica’s work is a “visual and textual feast” - we couldn’t agree more!
Seraph Jewellery
Olivia of Seraph Jewellery was also giving a live workshop. Her work as Seraph Jewellery is inspired by nature and fine art. On the night, she demonstrated how to use wire-wrapping to create beautiful classics for your jewellery collection. From setting gems into rings and necklaces to creating beaded earrings, Seraph Jewellery really brought the sparkle to the party. OLIVIA TEACHES YOU HOW TO MAKE THESE WIRE WRAP RINGS IN HER WORKSHOP ON THE 8TH AUGUST.
Amy Jade Prints
And of course, how could we not have June’s featured artist - Amy Jade Prints. Amy creates precisely cut, intricate lino prints, drawing inspiration from everyday life and the natural world. Our personal favourite is her cat sleeping surrounded by autumnal leaves. V cute.
Lorna Robey
Lorna is a print designer who works with bold, vivid colours to create fabrics and prints. Her work is informed by various social and political issues and holds a strong theme of human behaviour and activism. She brings mundane day to day activities alive, with striking colours in collages and screen prints. Our personal favourite collection is her work on sustainability and fast fashion.
Chloe Slater Textiles
Chloe delivered a live screen printing workshop for us all to enjoy. Using black and yellow paints, she showed us how to screen print her bee design onto a tote bag, which was a fascinating watch. She also had various, interesting yarn sculptures that made for a very visual treat. DON'T MISS HER SCREEN PRINTING WORKSHOP ON 22ND JULY.
Hayley Mills-Styles
Last but not least, Hayley Mills-Styles was around with her array of creative textile drawings and prints. She uses a mix of hand embroidery, applique and patchwork to create her autobiographical textile designs. DON'T MISS HER WORKSHOP ON CONDUCTIVE THREAD ON SUNDAY 14TH JUNE.
Pattern launch
Not only did we have these amazing artists involved, but it was also the release of our very own new pattern collection. Yay! We are super excited that these are now out there and you can all get making and show us your makes.
In addition to the previous patterns, you can now get your hands on dungarees, a jumpsuit, wrap-over dress, a summer dress, an asymmetric top, a midi skirt and a casual jersey tee. The perfect selection for your me-made wardrobe.
In short, the summer party was a crafty heaven and we can’t wait to see you all at the next one.
