A Handmade Christmas

This year JP and a I decided to try and make all our Christmas presents for family and friends. ''Oh easy peasy lemon squeezy'' we thought! But then most people we know have had things I make already over the years - that means new fresh ideas! Oh......... the brain struggled and succeeded.
This gave me the opportunity to try out a new bag from Amy Karols book Bend the rules sewing.

It was a success, the first photo shows an elongated version and the last was the actual pattern. Both recipients were very pleased (so was I!)

A batch of homemade cranberry and Apple chutney was made, and went down a treat along with Brandy Truffles and Sloe Gin!

For JP I made a very manly artist pencil wrap in suede, and a mobile phone holder. The boys got their Un-handmade Ben10 watches! but also one of my floppy bunnies (which had specific requirements!). Mmm, what else....... Aprons, needle cases and lavender hearts.

Jp got in on the act and made wire sculptures and cd compilations (with beautiful handmade illustrated covers).

We received lots of lovely goodies too, including these gorgeous handmade stockings made by Jane Foster. She is an extremely talented lady who I feel incredibly lucky to know very well. She makes fantastic bags, brooches and prints, all her own design. I strongly recommend you purchasing her work as she will be someone to watch!

With all this rain, I wish it would snow........ I will just have to enjoy our snowflakes on the window! Can't bear to take them down yet.