Santas Little Helper Cushion And Elf Doll

Would you have loved something like this for your bike when you were a child? Yes, I’d probably have filled it with chocolate biscuits, though!

Where did you grow up – and was craft a part of your childhood?I grew up on the south coast of England. I used to make lots of things from no-bake clay - funky necklaces, I seem to remember. My parents also ran a camping shop, so I used to make small towns and cars from the huge boxes.

Where and when do you like to stitch? I am very lucky to have a designated sewing space in my house, so stitching takes place there, however it does tend to creep back downstairs, as I really like to sew amongst the chaos of the family.

Do you listen to music or watch television while you sew?Always. I have ‘listened’ to lots of TV shows while I sew – my eyes are never watching, as I am busy sewing. When I am designing, I usually have music on. I find silence doesn’t help the creative process.

Are you an avid blogger about your crafts?Sadly not – the intention is there but the practice is still lacking! I do try to update my blog every time something new comes out, though.

Do you have a favourite style of handcraft you like to work on?Appliqué is my go-to craft – it’s the bit where I choose the fabrics and play with the colours that I love the most. Then when the whole quilt is sewn together, there’s such a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.

Are you a haberdashery and patchwork shop addict?We are a bit restricted on amazing haberdashery shops in Perth, but I do love to wander in them when I get a chance. But I don’t buy anything unless I have an immediate use for it – I’m not one to spend dollars on beautiful things just for the sake of it. Same with a patchwork store - I go with a particular project in mind, so it takes a while to select the right colour palate. I teach in a patchwork shop once a week, so that’s a bit dangerous for my bank balance!

What’s your favourite time of day to sew?When everyone is out of the house and I have the space to myself. I don’t like sewing on the weekends, as I prefer to spend the time with my family, but if everyone is happy and busy with their own things, then Sunday afternoon sewing with a movie playing in the background can be really good for the soul.

Do you have any sewing gadget you never use?Not really. I buy things if I need them and then I tend to use them. I have two sewing machines on my bench, and they both get used all the time. Thinking about it, I never use my free motion foot, just cant get on with that!!