Vintage reading...

Whilst I’m sadly not a great reader, I’m becoming a prolific collector of old sewing books, as well as old sewing patterns. I cannot quite say that I’m looking a learning new technique. I do use the books, but the fab illustrations are part of the attraction. I have just added the Golden Hands sewing encyclopaedia published by Collins in the early 1970s. At under £1 it is a real bargain! I love it so much that I yesterday ordered the knitting version – I can’t quite knit so yes, it could be useful… So as well as very practical home sewing knowledge, you get some lovely and very 70s illustrations:

great reversibles:

some great skirts cut from the same patterns:


pinks and corals - great colour combinations:


how to ruffle:


how maybe best not to measure:


figures types: not sure which one I am...

I’m also keen on old sewing patterns, but had to stop myself from purchasing these. Not only I can pattern cut most things that I would want to make, but I do not have all the time that I could wish.

Circus & the merry-go-round

Friday! Nearly a week since Craftacular - I had an amazing day and wish it was happening more often, maybe once a month or every Saturdays! I was lovely to meet so many shoppers and find many who like my crafty creations!

I walked passed Circus this morning, and was glad I had my camera with me! I love this shop - the clever mix of vintage industrial furniture, curious nic nacs, portrait oil paintings, religious statues and vintage garments.



Today was a especially good, as they had this one-of-kind merry-go-round! Tiny little horses, each named and painted in bright colours, ridden by tiny little dolls... Captivating!


Yesterday was quite good too, as I got lucky to see the pearly queens and kings of Clapham, Islington and Bermondsey. Oddly enough, I was discussing them last Sunday, as quite a large chunk of the east end culture seem to be disappearing; and I did not expect to see them in central London. I am not quite sure for which cause they were collecting.


Tomorrow I'm going on holiday for a week... and more badge making!

Bust Summer Craftacular!

I have been away, and than got very busy with craft fairs. I'm so so thrilled that we are taking part to Bust Craftacular, the most prestigious of them all for us!
There're plenty of activities lined up to keep you busy, with music and craft demonstration, and of course the shopping! To top it all, there are goodie bags for the first 100 attendees!

Craftacular is taking place on Saturday 22 August, from 12 to 8 at York Hall in Bethnall Green.
York Hall is located on 5-15 Old Ford Rd, Bethnal Green London, E2 9PJ– a 1 minute walk from Bethnal Green underground station (Central Line). Directly opposite the Museum of Childhood.

See you there!