[AD] Make the most of the fine weather with these simple garden cushions, made from cheerful PVC fabric for durability. These practical cushions are easy to sew, and are wipe clean and practical for outdoor use. Sara Walker breaks out the sewing machine… “As I’m lucky enough to have a…

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Harrogate-based business The Knitter’s Yarn is a joint venture between mother and daughter Sue and Alice Rutherford, offering wool, patterns and knitting knowhow. Sara Walker speaks to Sue to find out more. “The Knitter’s Yarn launched in September 2017 so we have been going just two years. Both Alice and…

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Poppy’s job title defies attempts to categorise it. Technically she’s a ‘freehand machine embroiderer’, but that seems too banal a description for the adorable, quirky, funny and individual products of her work. Living in Cornwall, Poppy’s work is inspired by the bright colours of sunshine and sea, by seagulls and…

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If you’re spending more time inside during the colder, darker months, why not try your hand at something new? It’s the ideal time to have a go at upcycling furniture – re-making, re-painting, re-furbishing and re-vamping until you end up with something better than the original. The great thing here…

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The beauty of crafting is that you know you’ll be creating something that’s unique, and not to be found in any shop. There’s no reason, though, that you shouldn’t cheat just a little, and let us do some of the hard work for you! We’ve picked out ten crafty accessories…

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This time of year can be a bit challenging, with less-than-perfect weather and lots of long, dark nights. If you fancy having a go at something crafty, making your own homewares is incredibly satisfying – they’re therapeutic to make, and satisfying when done. If you’re a crafting novice, though, the whole thing…

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Fancy learning a new skill? In our hectic times, crafting is becoming more popular as a way of easing stress. Neuroscientists are beginning to investigate how crafting that requires a lot of focus, such as quilting, can stimulate the brain in the same way as doing crossword puzzles or suduko…

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Interested in crafting but not sure how to get started? We take a look at the best beginners’ books on the market. Once you’ve chosen the type of craft you’d like to explore, you can use your chosen book to learn techniques and for project ideas – there are also…

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