Prima Makes Special Edition 2016-14

There are lots of gift ideas, such as the cute crochet snowman on page 106, that little ones will love. Plus, our free gift is so easy to sew that the kids can easily join in so their handy work can take pride of place on the tree. The Scandi bakes (page 127) are perfect for a family gathering or to give as gifts – you can even use our gift box ideas on pages 50 and 104 and fill them with biscuits. You can also create beautiful cards, such as the 3D card in a box on page 86. Find out how to make it in our Create and Craft section. Whatever your favourite pastime is, have a MAGICAL CHRISTMAS.

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Be inspired NEW ISSUE ON SALE

PHOTO: B R I A N A R I S

NOW!

Enjoy craft, homes, fashion and fabulous food in the November issue More of what you love from Prima every day at

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Hello

p106

SUE ’ S PHOTO: A N G E L A S PA I N MAIN PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL G I N G E R B R E A D M A N , B I SCU ITE E RS

WELCOME to the latest issue of Prima Christmas Makes. I hope

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that you like it. It’s in the shops nice and early to give you plenty of time to make all our lovely things. We have tried our best to give you ideas for every aspect of your Christmas – from your presents and wrapping, right through to your decorations. There are lots of gift ideas, such as the cute crochet snowman on page 106, that little ones will love. Plus, our free gift is so easy to sew that the kids can easily join in so their handy work can take pride of place on the tree. The Scandi bakes (page 127) are perfect for a family gathering or to give as gifts – you can even use our gift box ideas on pages 50 and 104 and fill them with biscuits. You can also create beautiful cards, such as the 3D card in a box on page 86. Find out how to make it in our Create and Craft section. Whatever your favourite pastime is, have a MAGICAL CHRISTMAS. p86 Editor Sue McNeill

PS Don’t miss our next issue of Prima Makes on sale 12 January 2017

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makes ISSUE 14

special

Published by Hearst Magazines UK, 72 Broadwick Street, London W1F 9EP. Tel: 020 7439 5000. Email: [email protected] Editor-in-chief Gaby Huddart Editor Sue McNeill Art director Terry Wallace Chief sub editor Cleo Hall Knitting editor Rosy Tucker PA Sandra Tear Picture editor Jo Lockwood Editorial assistant Aneira Davies Group publishing director Sharon Douglas Circulation manager James Hill Senior marketing and promotions executive Alice Taylor Production manager Pavel Pachovsky Lifestyle commercial finance manager Naina Savraj Editorial business manager Rebecca Stening Chief executive oicer Anna Jones Managing director, Brands Michael Rowley Chief digital oicer Darren Goldsby Marketing and circulation director Reid Holland Director of communications Lisa Quinn SVP, Chief financial oicer and general manager Hearst Magazines International Simon Horne Advertising 020 7439 5000 Distribution 01895 433 600

118 ideas and inspiration 6 A LITTLE CHRISTMAS CHEER Sue’s pick of the best decorations

37 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

Switchboard 020 7439 5000

Perfect gifts for everyone on your list

Subscriptions/back issues 01858 438 844

120 BOOK STORE

email: [email protected]

Get creative with these inspiring reads 124 CRAFTY CAREERS Designers with craft businesses

12 28 GOOD AS GOLD Decorative after-dinner treats 108 LACE IT UP Die-cut tags give gifts a stylish finish 112 SNAP HAPPY Embellish your crackers

simple sewing 16 CHECK THEM OUT Hang a gift bag instead of a stocking

StYle ideas 8 SET THE SCENE

COVER STYLING: SUE MCNEILL AND CATHERINE WORAM PHOTO: SUSSIE BELL

Welcoming touches for your home 34 FESTIVE FLORALS Gorgeous flowers for your home 48 LIGHT FANTASTIC A fabulous lantern from a junk-shop find 102 FINE DINING Easy updates for an old dining chair

decorative stitching 12 SEW PERFECT

EXCLUSIVE FREE GIFT FOR YOU Turn to page 64 to find out more! 4

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This needle case is useful and pretty 46 SADDLE UP! Embroider cute felt horse decorations 100 DRESS YOUR TREE Hang sweet felt coats on your tree 116 COSY CHRISTMAS Sew a patchwork snowflake cushion

paper makes 14 SIMPLE GREETINGS Personalise cards with stencils and bows

24 VELVET TOUCH A grown-up stocking 30 FESTIVE CHIC Make a Scandi-style cushion 70 FRUIT PASTEL Kids will love this pear-shaped cushion 118 STOCKING TOPS Feel festive with vibrant fabric makes

easY makes 18 COLOURFUL CHRISTMAS Clever wrapping for your gifts 22 LIGHT SHOW An elegant candle centrepiece 32 PUT YOUR STAMP ON IT Design a monochrome set of napkins 45 EXTRA SPECIAL Wrap your presents with style 50 PRETTY PACKAGES Create a vintage gift box with stickers 54 GO GREEN Create a nature-inspired felt wreath 56 SIMPLY RED Use red and white for standout gifts 58 CLEAR WINNERS See-through festive displays

what’s inside

127 78

62 MADE TO MATCH Transform matchboxes with photos 66 LIGHT UP Use empty jam jars for fun lighting 72 JUST ADD SPARKLE Glittery reindeers to dress your table 104 BOX CLEVER Patchwork gift boxes for tiny treasures 110 SHADES OF GREY Make a garland with MDF shapes

kids’ makes 36 SNOWMEN BITES Fun marshmallow faces 65 TAKE A BOW Decorate a card with pasta shapes 74 TOY STORY Dinosaur-themed clothes hangers

knits and crochet

92

25-PAGE SPECIAL 76 LEAFY GREENS

90 WINTER WOODLANDS

Make an eye-catching fabric card 78 ON THE BRIGHT SIDE Stamp and paint your festive napkins 80 BEADING BEAUTIFUL Make a beaded star pendant 82 CAKE PERFECTION Give your cakes a professional finish with step-by-step tips from Mich Turner 85 BEHIND THE SCENES Meet Create and Craft’s Dean Wilson 86 OUT OF THE BOX An amazing unfolding box 88 ALL IN A ROW Die-cut gingerbread cards

Send a lovely window card 92 ON THE CARDS A handmade card is so much more special than a shop-bought one 94 BLOCKS OF COLOUR This knitted cushion cover will make a great gift for a friend 96 A TOUCH OF FROST Create a wintry wreath for a statement card 99 BEHIND THE SCENES How John Bloodworth is crafting across the country to raise funds for the charity Mind

114 STAG DO Hang a crochet reindeer on your tree

26 A LITTLE LUXURY Scented lavender sachets 52 WINTER WARMERS Kids’ accessories for cold weather 60 GIANT KNIT A chunky arm-knitted scarf 68 ALL SQUARE A cosy wool blanket for snuggling up 106 NO-MELT SNOWMAN Perfect for crochet beginners Become our Facebook friend at facebook.com/ primamagazine

Templates etc 140 COLOURING PAGES Six pages to help you relax

bakes

146 CRAFT PAGES

127 ALL GOOD THINGS Scandi-style celebrations and treats

Travel

Patterned paper and gift tags for crafting 155 TEMPLATES All the templates you need for the projects in this issue

122 JUST FOR CHRISTMAS Festive fairs in the UK Share what you love at pinterest.com/ primamagazine

Find out what’s going on at Prima by following us on Twitter: @primamag

Contact Prima Makes at 72 Broadwick St, London W1F 9EP. Tel 020 7439 5000. Email [email protected]. Prices and availability were checked at the time of going to press, but we cannot be held responsible for any later changes. No part of Prima Makes may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. Not to be resold, lent, hired out or otherwise disposed of by way of trade at more than the recommended retail price (subject to VAT in Ireland) or in a mutilated condition. Printed by Precision Colour Printing Ltd, Haldane, Shropshire TF7 4QQ. To subscribe to Prima Magazine, call our enquiry line on 0844 848 5203 or visit qualitymagazines.co.uk. Phone lines are open weekdays, 8am-9.30pm; Saturdays, 8am-4pm. *BT landline calls to 0844 numbers will cost no more than 5p per minute; calls from other networks and mobiles usually cost more. The Publisher, editors and authors accept no responsibility in respect of any products, goods or services which may be advertised or referred to in this magazine, or for any errors, omissions, misstatements or mistakes in any such advertisements or references. Distributed by Condé Nast and National Magazine Distributors Limited (COMAG), Tavistock Road, West Drayton, Middlesex UB7 7QE (West Drayton 444055). Telex 8813787COMAGG.

œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1. œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ 1

Have fun decorating your home this festive season with Sue’s pick of the best decorations

CAPITAL IDEA These colourful decs will give a vintage feel to your tree, especially the red telephone box and Big Ben. Prices start from £2, so you can fill your tree for a bargain; george.com

NORDIC STYLE A neutral hanging decoration looks lovely with a bit of fresh greenery. Keeping it simple is the way to go. Ribbon, £4 for 4; pegs, £4 for 12; present labels, £3 for 30; gold dot treat bags, £5 for 8, all talkingtables.co.uk

COM PILE D BY: SU E M cN E I LL

KNIT WITS Claire Gelder’s giant knits will make you smile – see page 60 for her stunning scarf pattern and read how she comes up with her designs on page 124. Pompom key rings, £5.50 each; giant needles, £30; and wool, from £30; woolcouture company.com

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what’s new

1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.

POP-UP CARDS Katie Leamon designs the most exquisite stationery. Her cards that turn into decorations are beautiful – just pop out the motifs and add ribbon or twine. £3.90, katieleamon.com

wELL BRED Pet lovers will be barking mad not to go for these furry felt dog decorations. Choose your favourite breed, £7.50 each; coxandcox.co.uk

ARTISTIC TOUCH If you want a festive look that’s a little diferent, or if you have a creative friend, these Picasso decorations are just the thing. Artist palette, £8; artist, £8; dove, £10, all npg.org.uk

HOME SwEET HOME These frosty village houses in pastel colours can be brought out year after year. Sugar Plum village Christmas houses, £12.50 each, angelandboho.com

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Set the

SCENE Deep green foliage and warming candlelight gives your home a welcoming feel

style ideas

STAIRCASE GARLAND Bring the outside in with decorative foliage

Yo u w i l l n e e d ›Fresh foliage ›Craft or florist wire ›Rustic wire (steel wire encased in twine) ›Green string ›Decorations ›Scissors ›Secateurs ›Wire cutters

To m a k e 1 Prepare the foliage. We used conifer cuttings from the garden and two diferent types of eucalyptus bought from a florist. To prepare the stems, snip of the ends and remove some of the lower leaves. Gather together a few stems, one of each diferent variety, then wind them together using a length of craft wire – roughly 20cm should be enough. 2 Continue to gather the stems in threes and secure together with wire until you have a collection of about 12 for a standard flight of stairs.

3 Cut a length of rustic wire a little longer than the length of your finished garland. Using more craft wire, attach the bunches of foliage along the rustic wire. Fix all the bunches in the same direction, and overlap them to hide the bound stems. 4 Once you have covered the length of rustic wire with bunches, go back to the start and fix one bunch so it faces the opposite way and hides the untidy end where you started. Fix securely to the banister using the green garden string.

CANDLE HOLDER A rustic centrepiece for a table

Yo u w i l l n e e d ›Short split log ›Drill with 24mm flat wood bit ›Clamps ›Candles ›Moss and cones, to decorate

To m a k e 1 Clamp the log to a work bench. Using the 24mm wood bit, drill three or four holes in a row along the top of the log, roughly 5cm deep.

2 Push the candles into the holes and decorate the log with moss and pine cones. Do not leave lit candles unattended.

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METAL GIFT TAGS Made from zinc, these tags are a lovely keepsake

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To m a k e

›Metal letter stamp kit ›Piece of scrap wood ›Zinc parcel tags ›Hammer ›Black shoe polish ›Shoe brush ›Cloth

1 Place a parcel tag on the wood and, using

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the hammer and stamp kit, hammer the letters one by one into the zinc.

2 Brush black shoe polish over the letters and rub with a dry cloth. The polish should remain in the indented letters, making them stand out even more.

FE ATURE AND ST YLING: S E LI N A L A K E PHOTOS: SUSS I E B ELL . LE T TER S TA M P K IT, A M A ZO N .CO.U K . ZI N C TAG S , PI PI I .CO.U K . BAU B LES , SA I NS BU RY ’ S

style ideas

LANTERN CENTREPIECE This will look stunning on a festive buffet table

Yo u w i l l n e e d ›Hurricane-style lantern ›Heatproof mat ›Candle ›Foliage and flowers ›Scissors

To m a k e 1 Cut short sprigs from the foliage and flowers. We used white wax flower sprigs and pine.

2 Place the lantern in position on the table or sideboard. Use a heatproof mat to make sure that the lantern does not damage the surface, or put it on a tray or platter if you want to be able to move it. Arrange the larger sprigs around the lantern, then add the more delicate flowers and foliage. Do not leave lit candles unattended.

SEW PERFECT This sweet felt needle case makes a useful and pretty gift for a friend

Yo u w i l l n e e d .Sheets of felt, in white and green

.Scraps of coloured felt .Buttons .Beads .Embroidery thread .R ibbon .Needle .Sewing machine .Pinking shears .Iron

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Cut a piece of white felt measuring 14cm x 11cm. Cut the same out of green felt, only make this just a little longer than 14cm. Fold the two felt pieces in half and press the crease on a low heat. Trim the 11cm sides of the green felt with pinking shears to make a decorative edge. Cut out flowers and snowflakes from scraps of felt (see templates on page 155) and decorate the front of the white felt piece, adding beads, stitching and a button, to make a winter design. Place the green felt on top of the wrong side of the white felt, and machine stitch down the crease. Cut a 10cm piece of ribbon, fold and stitch to the upper centre of the green pages. Fold the needle book in half and press it shut at the back on low heat.

FE ATURE AND PHOTO: K A JSA K I N S E LL A ( K A JS A K I N S E LL A .CO M )

To m a k e

decorative stitching

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SIMPLE GREETINGS Add stencils, buttons and bows to create these pretty Christmas cards

Yo u w i l l n e e d ›Decorative card, we used Tilda in candy Bloom ›Buttons ›Chalk paint ›R ibbon bows ›Stencils (or make your own) ›Stencil brush ›Scissors ›Craft knife, ruler and board (optional) ›Glue gun

Cut the patterned card into rectangles about 250mm x 125mm (to fit a 130mm square envelope – choose a diferent size, if you like). Fold into square cards. Place the stencil on the front of the card, apply the paint using the stencil brush and leave to dry. When stencilling, remove excess paint from the brush first by dabbing on kitchen paper, and paint the stencil using a dabbing motion. When dry, remove the stencil carefully. Stick on buttons and bows with a glue gun.

To m a k e y o u r o w n s t e n c i l You will need stencil acetate and a pen, plus a craft knife and cutting board. Download and print a stencil image from the internet, or use the stencils on pages 155-156. Resize the image as required on a photocopier. Lay the stencil acetate over the design. Carefully trace it with a pen, then place on the board and cut out the design with a craft knife.

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FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL . S TEN CI L S , S TEN CI L- LI B R A RY.CO.U K .

To m a k e

paper makes

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simple sewing

CHECK THEM OUT FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL . FA B R IC S , BUT TO NS , TH E W I M B LEDO N C R A F T SU PERS TO RE

Decorated with large fabric letters, gingham gift bags are a great alternative to the trad stocking

To m a k e Yo u w i l l n e e d ›Gingham in contrasting colours ›Paper-backed adhesive web, eg Bondaweb ›Assorted buttons ›1 m of piping cord, per bag ›Tracing paper, for templates ›Sewing machine ›Needle and thread ›Scissors ›Glue gun

Cut out two rectangles of gingham fabric for the bag, measuring 35cm x 45cm. Cut out two rectangles the same size in contrasting gingham for the lining. Using spare pieces of contrast gingham large enough for the letters, iron Bondaweb to the wrong side, following the manufacturer’s instructions, then allow to cool. Using the templates on page 157, trace the letters you need in reverse on to the paper backing of the fabric and cut out. Peel of the backing paper, place the letter on the front section of the bag and iron in place. Machine stitch around each letter using a zigzag stitch. Stick the buttons to the letter using a glue gun (or hand stitch, if you prefer). With right sides together, machine stitch the bag front to the back on three sides leaving the top (35cm edge) open. Notch the bottom corners using scissors and turn to the right side. Stitch together the bag lining in the same way but do not turn to the right side. Place the lining inside the bag. Turn the top edges in to the wrong sides by 1cm and tack together. Machine topstitch along this edge. Tie with the piping cord.

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easy makes

Colourful CHRISTMAS Use jewel shades to decorate containers for edible gifts and to make quick crackers

IN THE CAN YOU WILL NEED

TO MAKE

›Cans, cleaned and dried ›Spray paint in jewel colours ›W hite acrylic paint ›R ibbon ›Stencil brush ›Stencil acetate and pen ›Craft knife and board ›Masking tape

1 If spray-painting indoors, cover the surfaces with newspaper before you start, or spray the cans outdoors on a windless day. Leave the cans to dry. 2 Using the templates on page 158, cut out your simple stencils (follow the instructions on page 14. 3 Fix the stencil to the can with small pieces of masking tape. Dip the brush in the white paint. Don’t apply too much – it helps to dab the filled brush on kitchen paper a couple of times to get rid of any excess paint. Use a dabbing technique to apply the paint to the stencil. Leave to dry, then carefully remove the stencil. 4 Once the cans are completely dry, line with a large piece of pretty tissue paper. Fill with biscuits or sweets, bunch up the excess paper, tie with a ribbon and add a gift tag.

Children will have to be supervised when making stencils and using spray paint

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FE ATURE AND PHOTOS E WA ⁄ FLO R A PR ESS

Save your empty baked bean tins and transform them into unique containers 1œ . 1œ . 1œ . 1œ . 1œ . 1œ . 1œ . 1œ . 1œ

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easy makes

PULL THE OTHER ONE These simple crackers can be filled with exciting small gifts and toys 1œ . 1œ . 1œ . 1œ . 1œ . 1œ . 1œ . 1œ YOU WILL NEED

›Empty toilet rolls or thin card ›Plain wrapping paper in assorted colours ›R ibbon ›W hite poster paint ›Potato ›Glue or double-sided tape ›Gold stickers ›Scissors ›K itchen paper ›Small cookie cutters ›Small paint brush

TO MAKE

1 Cut pieces of coloured paper to measure about A4 size. Use empty toilet rolls or cut some thin card into strips, about half as long as the paper and as wide. 2 Wash and dry the potato and slice into thick chunks. Using a cookie cutter, cut out shapes from the potato slices. Leave them to dry for a while, as excess moisture in the potato will make the painted motifs bleed. Dry again with kitchen paper. 3 Paint one side of the potato shapes with white paint and stamp it on to the middle section of each piece of paper, leaving a small gap between each stamp. Leave the ends plain. Leave to dry. 4 Place the card or toilet roll in the middle of the paper. Fill with small gifts and roll up into a cracker shape, fixing the join with tape or glue. 5 Scrunch and tie with ribbon at both ends. Add gold stars and other motifs, if you like.

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easy makes

LIGHT SHOW This elegant candle centrepiece looks lovely on the dining table or in a hallway

1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1 To m a k e

1œ.1œ.1œ ›Vase ›Florist’s Oasis, to fill the vase (or use sand)

›A rtificial ivy ›Candles ›R ibbon ›Scissors

Do not leave lit candles unattended.

Try battery-operated LED candles, which are safe to leave, and flicker realistically

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FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL

Yo u w i l l n e e d

Push large chunks of Oasis tightly into the vase, or fill with sand. Arrange the ivy around the rim to hide the Oasis or sand. Tie ribbon bows to the ivy, here and there, and trim the ribbon ends diagonally. Push the candles firmly into the Oasis to finish.

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VELVET TOUCH Only special gifts will do for this stencilled velvet stocking trimmed with pompom braid

Yo u w i l l n e e d ›40cm grey velvet ›Cotton fabric for lining ›W hite fabric paint ›Silver bugle beads ›50cm pompom trim ›Velvet ribbon ›Snowflake stencil (or make your own)

›Masking tape ›Stencil brush ›Needle and thread ›Fabric scissors ›Sewing machine ›Pins

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Using the template on page 159, cut out a mirror pair of two stocking pieces from the velvet. Cut out a mirror pair from the lining fabric. Place the snowflake stencil on the front of one of the velvet stocking shapes – you may find it easier if you fix the stocking to your work surface first, then tape the stencil down. Very carefully, paint the stencil with the fabric paint in a dabbing motion, using an almost dry brush. Leave to dry completely. Remove the stencil and sew bugle beads to the stocking by hand. With right sides facing, machine stitch the two velvet shapes together. Repeat for the cotton lining. Trim and notch the curved edges with scissors and turn the velvet stocking to the right side. Turn the top edge of the stocking 1cm to the inside and tack the pompom trim to this edge. Insert the lining fabric, still wrong side out, and fold the top edge to the wrong side so that it sandwiches the pompom trim between the two layers of fabric. Pin in place. Fold the velvet ribbon in half and insert at the side of the stocking. Hand stitch along the fabric edges using small whipstitches to finish. ›See page 14 for how to make your own stencil.

FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL . S TEN CI L , S TEN CI L- LI B R A RY.CO.U K

To m a k e

simple sewing

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Add beads to silky yarn to make these gorgeous sachets, filled with a scented organza bag

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PHOTO: K AT YA DE G RU N WA LD

A LITTLE LUXURY

perfect knits

SIZES Approximately 12.5cm x 12.5cm.

Yo u w i l l n e e d O2 x 50g balls of any double-

knitting-weight silk yarn OApproximately 1,300 beads,

for scented sachet with all-over beads OApproximately 220 beads, for scented sachet with knots and beads OPair of 3mm knitting needles. OSmall piece of organza and matching sewing thread, for inner bag OLavender or rose petals OSatin ribbons OSewing needle and thread

T O M A K E S AC H E T W I T H A L L- O V E R B E A D S With 3mm needles, cast on 42 sts. Beg with a k row, work 6 rows in st-st, ending with RS facing for next row. Ridge row (RS) P to end. Next row P to end. Now add beads where indicated as follows: 1st row (RS) K2, [bead 1, k1] to last 2 sts, k2. 2nd row P to end. 3rd row K3, [bead 1, k1] to last st, k1. 4th row P to end. Rep last 4 rows until work measures 25cm from ridge row, ending with WS facing for next row. Ridge row (WS) K to end. Beg with a k row, work 6 rows in st st. Cast of.

TENSIONS 28 sts and 52 rows over beaded st-st and 28 sts and 40 rows over beaded knot pattern, both to 10cm square using 3mm needles. NOTES Before starting to knit, thread the beads on to the yarn. To do this, thread a sewing needle that will pass through the bead with sewing thread, knot the ends of the thread together, and put the yarn through this loop. Thread the beads on to the needle and slide them along on to the yarn until they are all threaded on.

T O M A K E S AC H E T W I T H KNOTS AND BEADS With 3mm needles, cast on 42 sts. Beg with a k row, work 6 rows in st-st, ending with RS facing for next row. Ridge row (RS) P to end. Next row P to end. Now make knots and add beads where indicated as follows: 1st row (RS) K1, [make knot, k3] to last 5 sts, make knot, k2. 2nd row P to end. 3rd row K2, [bead 1, k5] to last 4 sts, bead 1, k3. 4th row P to end. 5th row K4, [make knot, k3] to last 2 sts, k2. 6th row P to end. 7th row [K5, bead 1] to last 6 sts, k6. 8th row P to end. Rep last 8 rows until work measures 25cm from ridge row, ending with WS facing for next row. Ridge row (WS) K to end. Beg with a k row, work 6 rows in st-st. Cast of.

A B B R E V I AT I O N S bead 1 bring yarn to front (RS) of work between two needles, slip bead up next to st just worked and slip next st purlwise from left needle to right needle to leave bead in front of slipped st, then take yarn to back (WS) of work between two needles beg beginning cm centimetres k knit p purl make knot p3tog leaving sts on left needle, then k same 3 sts tog, p them tog again and slip sts of left needle rep repeat RS right side st(s) stitch(es) st-st stocking stitch tog together WS wrong side.

TO FINISH BOTH S AC H E T S Weave in any loose yarn ends. Lay work out flat and gently steam on WS to avoid damaging beads. Fold in half widthwise and sew both side seams. Turn top edge to inside along ridge row and sew in place. Sew a length of ribbon to each side of opening. Inner bag Cut a strip of organza 15.5 x 29cm. Fold in half widthwise and sew sides taking 1.5cm seams. Turn right side out and fill with rose petals or lavender. Slip stitch opening closed. Insert bag into knitted cover.

Taken from The Collection by Erika Knight (£18.99, Quadrille). See page 120 for details.

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paper

makes

GOOD AS GOLD Fill decorative card cones with chocolate coins for a fun after-dinner treat

To m a k e

›P  rinted card ›Lace ›Stickers ›Gold tissue paper ›Chocolate coins ›String ›Glue gun ›Hole punch ›Stapler

Cut a quarter circle from the card with a radius of 15cm. Roll the card to form a cone and staple at the top edge of the overlap. Use the glue gun to stick the remaining edge down. Glue the lace around the cone and add a sticker, if you like. Punch two holes opposite each other at the top of the cone. Thread the string through and make a knot on the inside at each end. Fill the cone with gold tissue paper and chocolate coins and hand over with the after-dinner cofee.

2 3

String up cones as an alternative advent calendar, marking each with a date

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FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL

Yo u w i l l n e e d

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FESTIVE CHIC To m a k e

1 Yo u w i l l n e e d .55cm plain linen fabric (137cm wide)

.Embroidered braid or panel of patterned fabric

.Buttons, with letters .Needle and thread .30cm x 50cm cushion filler pad

.Plastic snap fasteners .Scissors .Sewing machine .Pins

Cut the cushion front from the linen fabric to measure 33cm x 53cm and two further rectangles for the back measuring 53cm x 22cm. Pin the braid to the front of the fabric along the length of the rectangle and tack in place. Machine topstitch in place along both edges. If you are using a panel of fabric, turn in and press the edges before tacking in place. Sew the buttons to the braid or panel by hand to spell Noel. Place the two back sections of fabric together with right sides facing and stitch along one long edge, taking a seam allowance of about 5cm, and leaving a large gap in the middle of the seam for inserting the cushion. Press, with the seam pieces both facing the same way. Pin the back of the cushion to the front section, right sides facing, ensuring that the two pieces of the seam are still facing the same way and stitch together all around the edge, taking a good 1.5cm seam allowance. Trim and notch the corners. Turn to the right side. Sew on plastic snap fasteners to the back opening and insert the cushion pad to finish.

2 3 4

5

6

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FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL . FA B R IC , BUT TO NS , TH E W I M B LEDO N C R A F T SU PERS TO RE

Stitch a Scandi-style cushion finished with a band of braid and alphabet buttons

simple sewing

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œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1. œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1

œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1. œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ 32

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easy makes

1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ

PUT YOUR STAMP ON IT Print simple designs on to plain napkins for a chic black-and-white party theme

Yo u w i l l n e e d

1œ.1œ.1œ.

1œ.1œ.1œ ›Self-adhesive foam sheets

›Black fabric paint ›Square-edged artist’s brush

›W hite cotton napkins ›Paper, to protect the work surface ›Masking tape ›Old saucer or paper plate

To m a k e Cut out the desired shape from the sticky-backed foam sheet. Peel of the backing and stick the shape to a square of foam slightly larger than your stamp shape. Cover the work surface with protective paper and fix it to the work surface with masking tape. Tape the napkin on top, making sure that it is smooth with no wrinkles.

Put some fabric paint in an old saucer, dip in the foam stamp and do a few practice stamps to get the right effect. Use a square-edged brush to touch up the design and sharpen the edges, if necessary. Once dry, fold the napkins neatly and wrap with a piece of ribbon and an embellishment.

Designs in detail 1 Use a right-angled triangle in a random pattern. Start in one corner and work outwards. 2 Make a small square foam stamp and repeat in of-set lines.

3 Make a star stamp and repeat in of-set rows.

4 Create this fun linear design by

1

2

3

4

5

6

placing a few foam strips together on one stamp.

FE ATURE: L AU R A VAC K E R

5 For this design, you could use a ready-made round sponge stamp. 6 Create two stamps, each with two diferent triangle foam shapes.

Taken from Decorate for a Party by Holly Becker and Leslie Shewring (£20, Jacqui Small/Aurum Press). See page 120 for details.

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The clas sic white bunch A collection of white roses, floral sprigs and wax flowers looks gorgeous mixed in with blue-green eucalyptus leaves. Strip the stems of their lower leaves, then gather together the stems and place in a large jam jar or plain glass vase. Tie a ribbon around the neck of the vase, leaving long tails to drape on to the table.

Festive FLORALS Decorate your home with gorgeous fresh flowers

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style ideas

FLORAL EXPLOSION

ROSY WREATH

1œ . 1œ . 1œ .1œ . 1œ

1œ . 1œ . 1œ . 1

YOU WILL NEED

FE ATURE AND ST YLING: S E LI N A L A K E PHOTOS: SUSS I E B ELL

›Oasis ball ›Rustic wire (steel wire encased in twine) ›Flowers ›Foliage

TO MAKE

1 Cut a length of rustic wire, about 1.5m long, and pierce it through the Oasis ball. Secure it by folding the end of the wire back on itself. 2 Soak the Oasis in water for about five minutes until it has absorbed plenty of water. Meanwhile, remove any leaves from the bottom 5-6cm of each stem of foliage. 3 Start arranging the foliage stems around the Oasis to achieve a full look. Add the flowers (we included some sea thistles to add interest) and hang the display beside your front door as an alternative to a wreath.

YOU WILL NEED

›Oasis wreath ›Florist pins ›Flowers ›Foliage

TO MAKE

1 First soak the Oasis wreath in water for about 10 minutes. While it’s soaking, cut the foliage to the correct length and strip of leaves from one end so each sprig can be easily pushed into the Oasis. We used conifer cuttings and berries from the garden and eucalyptus, wax flowers and roses from the florist. 2 Working your way around the wreath, build up layers of foliage. If any long sprigs stick out too much, gather them together and pin into place using florist pins. 3 Once the base is completely covered, add the flowers and berries, working your way round. Display on your front door.

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kids’ makes

SNOWMEN BITES

To m a k e Yo u w i l l n e e d ›Marshmallows ›Food dye gel tubes in black and orange

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Pick out the white marshmallows – eat the pink ones. Using the black food dye gel, dot on eyes and a mouth for each snowman, then use the orange gel to draw a carrot as a nose on each. Serve the marshmallows in mugs of hot chocolate and watch them melt.

FE ATURE AND ST YLING: S E LI N A L A K E PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL

Make fun faces with marshmallows

shopping

KIDS

CRAFTS

HOME

GIFT GUIDE Find the perfect present for everyone on your list

COM PILE D BY: A N E I R A DAV I E S A N D SU E M c N E I LL

STATIONERY

BEAUTY FOOD

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STATIONERY

you’ll love

…

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† ˆ



Œ

‹ ‰ Š

1. Folk foxes pencil case, £15, papiopress.etsy.com 2. Alphabet books, £12.99, shop.southbankcentre.co.uk 3. Purple Lined A6 Notebooks, £2.99 for two, oakroomshop.co.uk 4. Liberty Betsy/Poppy and Daisy print party bags, £8.50 for 10, berylune.co.uk 5. Botanical Christmas tags, £4 for eight, talkingtables.co.uk 6. Ballpoint pen, £10, carolinegardner.com 7. Pencil set, £14.95, wildandwolf.com 8. Christmas Robin sticker stationery set, £6, notonthehighstreet.com 9. Desk stationery set, £16, tch.net

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shopping

†

…

Just for KIDS ‡

 ˆ ‹ Œ ‰ Š

1. Mickey Mouse coin purse, £12, cathkidston.com 2. Forest in bell jar, £19.50, marksandspencer.com 3. Trailing daisy watch, £15, cathkidston.com 4. Hat and gloves set, £10, marksandspencer.com 5. Bunting tent, £60, shop.southbankcentre.co.uk 6. Personalised deluxe building blocks in warm pastels, £45, notonthehighstreet.com 7. Pudding bib, £7 for three, marksandspencer.com 8. Arctic penguin soft toy, £14, notonthehighstreet.com 9. Wiltshire berry print crown, £20, Splendid Dressing Up at liberty.co.uk

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For HOME LOVERS

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‡

…

ˆ  Œ

‹

Š

‰

1. Mora cushion, £35, uniqueandunity.co.uk 2. Salad servers, £19.50, marksandspencer.com 3. Alternative Christmas tree shelf set, £40, notonthehighstreet.com 4. Erddig chinoiserie dip bowls, £25 for four, shop.nationaltrust.org.uk 5. Gold drip mug, £18, ceramicsforeveryone.etsy.com 6. Mint geo tassel throw, £32, oliverbonas.com 7. Gold pouffe, from a selection, £125, rajtentclub.com 8. Robin and holly sack, £29, thornbackandpeel.co.uk 9. Engraved rolling pin, £24, lemonbaum.etsy.com

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shopping

†

…

For CRAFTERS ‡

Œ

 ˆ

Š

‰

‹

1. Hat kit, £19.99, oakroomshop.co.uk 2. English paper piecing cushion kit, £22, shop.thenewcrafthouse.com 3. The Makery embroidery hoop, £9.99, oakroomshop.co.uk 4. Festive ribbon cards, £3.99 each, oakroomshop.co.uk 5. The Colouring Book of Cards and Envelopes, £9.99, shop.nationaltrust.org.uk 6. Ho Ho Ho Christmas pudding fountain, £5.50, talkingtables.co.uk 7. Stamp set, £8, paperchase.co.uk 8. Art and craft paint your own wooden birdhouse, currently priced at £5.15, amazon.co.uk 9. Cath Kidston snail tape measure, £8, cathkidston.com

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†

For FOODIES

‡ …

ˆ



‹

Œ

‹

‰ Š

1. Penguin and Reindeer selfie slabs, £16 each, hotelchocolat.com 2. Christmas tree biscuit card, £9, biscuiteers.com 3. Stelline di cioccolato, £12.95, carluccios.com 4. Festive cracker, £12.50, crabtree-evelyn.co.uk 5. Bonne Maman Petite Collection of five minis in a storage jar, £5.99, ocado.com 6. Lebkuchen reindeer and sleigh, £11.95, bettys.co.uk 7. Pandoro, £16.95, carluccios.com 8. Nutcracker and sugar plum fairy tubes, £5.95, chococo.co.uk 9. Chocolate coin bauble, £4, shop.southbankcentre.co.uk

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shopping

…

†

For BEAUTY lovers

‡ 

Œ

ˆ

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1. Ren neroli and grapefruit duo, £29, marksandspencer.com 2. Christmas apple and cinnamon soap bauble, £6, bronnley.co.uk 3. Ashdown Rose hand cream, £4, cathkidston.com 4. Braids and Blooms soap flowers, £10, Vintage & Co, heathcote-ivory.com/vintage 5. Citrus twist bath bomb crackers, £6 for nine, accessorize.co.uk 6. Nuxe 10 beauty treasures, £49, marksandspencer.com 7. Earl Grey tea soap, £5, londonfieldssoap.etsy.com 8. Laura Ashley Royal Bloom bell jar, £16, boots.com 9. Pomegranate and la source ornament tin, £10, crabtree-evelyn.co.uk

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prima

promotion

PRIMA CHRISTMAS CREATE AT HOME Make this gorgeous display of flowers, berries and pine cones. It’s so easy and everything is delivered to your door for only £24.99! Before you start Before getting creative with your arrangement, it is important that you soak the Oasis block in cold water. Just leave it to absorb the water, rather than forcing the block into the water. This should take a few minutes. Remove all the kit items from the delivery box and lay them out on a table or workbench so you have plenty of room.

To m a k e

In your kit

ONLY £24.99

Place the hydrated Oasis into the basket and start to arrange the Noble Pine around the outer edge, so it gently falls over the top rim of the basket. Continue to build up the arrangement, adding the salal leaves, birch twigs, hypericum berries, cones and carnations to the Oasis, working in a circle towards the centre of the basket. Or add in your own items, such as cinnamon bundles or tinsel. Tie the ribbon around the basket, then sit back and admire your creation!

TIP! Add water daily to keep your ›Basket ›R ibbon ›Noble Pine ›Natural Birch ›Oasis ›Salal ›Hypericum ›Carnations ›Cones

TO ORDE R VISIT

flyingflowers.co.uk/prima-christmas The last order date for postal deliveries is 22 December, and 23 December for courier deliveries.

arrangement looking fresh

easy makes

1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.

EXTRA SPECIAL Give your presents star quality with these stylish additions to plain wrap

1œ.1œ.1

Wrap and add...

Taken from Decorate for a Party by Holly Becker and Leslie Shewring (£20, Jacqui Small/Aurum Press). See page 120 for details.

1. Stick on gold tape and tie with white twine threaded with a gold paper feather. 2. Add a piece of polka-dot paper, a paper clip with a Washi tape pennant, a white tag, and ric rac ribbon. 3. Wrap a box in black paper, tie with white twine and add a craft paper star. 4. Dip the edges of a doily into black paint, cut out a corrugated craft paper heart, and tie on with black twine.

5. Make a star from five pieces of bamboo skewers, fixed with black Washi tape. Tie on with black twine. 6. Wrap a black card tag with white yarn and tie on with black twine. 7. Stick on two bands of black glitter tape and a gingham ribbon bow. 8. Splatter the wrapped parcel with white paint, tie with lacy ribbon and add a paper snowflake.

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SADDLE UP! Embroider traditional felt Dala horses with tiny beads for a sweet decoration

Yo u w i l l n e e d ›Felt, in winter shades ›Small beads ›Embroidery thread ›Red and white baker’s twine ›Wooden beads ›Sharp scissors ›Needle ›Sewing machine and thread

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Place the felt double and, using the template on page 160, cut out two parts for each little horse. Make the front piece of each horse beautiful by embellishing it with contrasting embroidery thread and little shiny beads. Using two strands of the thread works well when stitching on felt. Stitch a saddle, bridle and reins. Cut twine measuring 20cm, fold it in half and place the ends on the wrong side of the undecorated horse piece. Attach with a few machine stitches. Place the front and back of the horse together and sew them together using blanket stitch all the way around. Thread on a wooden bead and hang.

FE ATURE AND PHOTO: K A JSA K I N S E LL A ( K A JS A K I N S E LL A .CO M )

To m a k e

decorative stitching

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LIGHT FANTASTIC We transformed a junk-shop find with paint and plain glass into a fabulous lantern

1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1

1œ.1œ.1œ ›Metal glazed lantern ›Chalk paint ›A rtificial or real ivy ›Clear glass (optional) ›Pillar candle ›Paintbrush ›Sandpaper

BEFORE

To m a k e Carefully remove the glass, if you can, and set it aside. Most lanterns have small metal clips holding the glass in place. Wash the frame and, when dry, sand it smooth, if necessary. Apply a coat of chalk paint inside and out. Leave to dry, then apply a further coat if better coverage is required. One coat should give a more distressed look, but if it looks too solid, sand some of the paint off once it is dry to reveal parts of the metal beneath. Replace the glass. If you don’t like the glass in your lantern or it is broken, use the panes you have removed to make card templates, and take them to a glass shop for cutting new clear glass. Drape fresh or artificial ivy around the top of the lantern and insert a pillar candle to finish. Do not leave lit candles unattended.

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FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTOS: SUSS I E B ELL

Yo u w i l l n e e d

style ideas

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easy makes

PRETTY PACKAGES Simple cardboard boxes decorated with vintage stickers make your gifts look gorgeous

1œ.1œ.1œ. To m a k e Yo u w i l l n e e d 1œ.1œ.1œ ›C  ardboard boxes with lids

›V  intage-style stickers ›R  ibbon ›S tring ›G  ift tags ›S cissors ›G  lue gun

1

Arrange the stickers on the lids and sides of the boxes and press firmly in place. Measure around the box lids, add 2cm, and cut lengths of ribbon to fit. Stick a ribbon on to the edge of each lid with a glue gun. Pack the gifts, tie the boxes with string and add a gift tag decorated with a vintage sticker to each.

2

To use old boxes, cover them with paper using spray glue

FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTO: S US S I E B E LL . B OX E S , R I B B O N , TH E W I M B LE D O N C R A F T S U PE RS TO R E . S TI C K E RS , PI PI I .CO.U K

œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.

œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ. 50

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perfect

knits

WINTER WARMERS A bobble hat, cowl and handwarmers are perfect cold weather wear for active kids

Yo u w i l l n e e d Bliss Falkland Aran in each of Mustard 07 (A) and Blossom 16 (B) O5mm short circular needle (see Note) or double pointed needles for Hat and Cowl OPair 5mm needles for Handwarmers

SIZES To fit an average 4 to 6-year-old child. TENSION 22 sts and 26 rows to 10cm square over rib using 5mm needles. A B B R E V I AT I O N S cm centimetres cont continue k knit p purl rem remaining st(s) stitch(es) tog together NOTES If your circular needle is too long, use the magic loop method – see video clips on YouTube if you are unfamiliar with this technique, or you could use a set of double pointed needles. You should need only one 100g ball ball in each shade to make everything.

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H AT With 5mm circular needle and A, cast on 88 sts. Join to work in the round making sure you don’t twist the cast on edge. Rib round [K2, p2] to end. This round forms rib and is repeated. Cont in rib until hat measures 5cm. Change to B and cont in rib until hat measures 17cm, from cast on edge. Shape crown 1st round [K2tog, p2] to end. 66 sts. 2nd and 3rd rounds [K1, p2] to end. 4th round [K1, p2tog] to end. 44 sts. 5th round [K1, p1] to end. 6th round [K3tog, p1] to end. 22 sts. 7th round [K1, p1] to end. 8th round [K3tog, p1] 5 times, k2tog. 11 sts. Leaving a 20cm end, cut yarn and thread yarn end through rem sts, pull up and secure. With A, make a 6cm pompon and attach to top of hat, using the yarn end.

COWL With 5mm (US 8) circular needle and A, cast on 112 sts. Join to work in the round making sure you don’t twist the cast on edge. Rib round [K2, p2] to end. This round forms rib and is repeated. Cont in rib until cowl measures 11cm. Change to B and cont in rib rounds until cowl measures 16cm from cast on edge. Cast of in rib. H A N D WA R M E R S With 5mm needles and A, cast on 38 sts. 1st rib row K2, [p2, k2] to end. 2nd rib row P2, [k2, p2] to end. These 2 rows form the rib and are repeated. Rib a further 24 rows, change to B and cont in rib for a further 12 rows. Cast of in rib. Join the first 14 rows and last 12 rows leaving the centre 12 rows open for thumb. PHOTO: R ITA PL AT TS

OOne 100g hank of Debbie

Taken from Falkland Aran by Debbie Bliss (£7.75). See page 120 for details. For stockists of Debbie Bliss yarns, call 01535 664222.

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œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1. œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1

œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1. œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ 54

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easy makes

1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ

GO GREEN Create a felt wreath with a natural scheme

1œ.1œ.1œ.1 FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTO: S US S I E B E LL . FE LT S H E E TS , CO R I N N E L A PI E R R E AT C R E ATE A N DC R A F T.T V

To m a k e Yo u w i l l n e e d 1œ.1œ.1œ ›Wooden ring ›Felt in assorted shades ›Sharp scissors ›Paper or card, for template

›A ir-erasable fabric marker

›Needle and thread ›Glue gun ›R ibbon

Using the leaf shape on page 160, cut out a template from paper or card. Draw around this shape on the back of the felt fabric – you need about 30 leaves to make the wreath. Cut out the leaves, fold each one in half lengthways and whipstitch along this edge to create the folded effect on each leaf. Use the glue gun to stick the first leaf to the top of the wooden ring. Continue to stick the leaves onto the wood, overlapping them as you go until the whole ring is covered. Tie a ribbon bow and glue to the top of the wreath. Trim the ribbon ends diagonally to prevent them fraying.

Make your wreath any size – you can buy wooden rings from 10cm up to 45cm

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SIMPLY RED Red and white is a classic colour combo – add extra impact with layers of ric rac braid

.Red and white wrapping paper

.R ibbon .R ic rac braid .Glue gun .Wooden letters .Red paint .Paintbrush .Gift tags

To m a k e

1 2

Paint the wooden letters red and leave to dry. Cut lengths of ribbon and ric rac braid to fit around the wrapped gifts and use the glue gun to stick the ribbon ends at the back, overlapping the ribbon about 1cm. Stick the painted letter to the front of the gift and add a tag to finish.

3

Use the alphabet templates on page 157 if you want to make the letters from card

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FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL . R I B BO N , R IC R AC , LE T TERS: TH E W I M B LEDO N C R A F T SU PERS TO RE

Yo u w i l l n e e d

easy makes

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Clear WINNERS These see-through displays give a light and airy feel to your festive scheme

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easy makes

Bell jars Using bell jars is an easy but striking way to decorate a table

Yo u w i l l n e e d 1œ.1œ.1œ ›Glass bell jars or domes

›Desiccated coconut ›Decorations

FE ATURE AND ST YLING: S E LI N A L A K E PHOTOS: SUS S I E B E LL . G I N G E R B R E A D H O US E , B E T T YS .CO.U K . TR E E S , BAU B LES , PI PI I .CO.U K

To m a k e 1 Desiccated coconut makes great faux snow. Gather handfuls of it and pile it up where you want to place you glass domes. 2 Arrange your decorations on the ‘snow’. We used a gingerbread house biscuit, vintage baubles and a reindeer-like plastic toy. Once you are happy, pop the domes over the decorations to finish your display.

Botanical baubles These foliage-filled baubles make an elegant display

Yo u w i l l n e e d 1œ.1œ.1œ ›Clear plastic fillable baubles

›Sage green satin ribbon ›Foliage

To m a k e 1 Remove the top fixture from each bauble. Cut a few sprigs of foliage and squeeze some through the opening of each bauble. Reattach the fixture. 2 Add a length of ribbon through the fixture and hang a few baubles in a group to make a festive botanical display.

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perfect

knits

GIANT KNIT Forget the knitting needles and use your arms instead to make this chunky scarf!

Yo u w i l l n e e d O900g Extreme un-spun

merino wool in mustard yellow or natural grey

WHERE TO BUY woolcouturecompany.com and John Lewis The Giant Cuddle Scarf – 1 Hour Arm Knitting Kit, £50

NOTES The knitting kit is designed for beginners or those wanting a new knitting experience. It’s sure to put some real fun into knitting and will deliver the results in 1 hour.

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perfect knits

PHOTO: W E N DY C A R R IG DES IG N E D A N D I LLUS TR ATE D BY WOO L COUTU R E CO M PA N Y. A LL R IG HTS R ES E RV E D.

To m a k e

1 Lay the yarn across

2 Turn your hand so

the palm of your hand and hold it with two fingers. Leave 10in hanging below your little finger. Wrap the yarn around your hand.

your palm is facing downwards. With the other hand, slip your fingers under the first loop and grab the second loop that is attached to the ball of yarn. Bring the yarn through the loop.

5 Put your left hand through the loop that sits below your little finger. Grab the working yarn and pull it through the loop. Drop the original loop of your right-hand fingers and place the new loop on your wrist.

6 Gently pull the working yarn and tail apart to tighten the stitch on your arm. Repeat until you have cast on four stitches.

9 When you have finished your first row, move on to the second row using the same technique. In order to get nice neat stitches, you have to remember that you always turn the new loop slightly clockwise when knitting from your right arm to your left arm, and slightly anti-clockwise when you are working from your left arm to your right arm, making sure that the yarn attached to the ball is closest to you.

3 Slide the yarn of your hand. You have now created the slip knot. Place the slip knot over your right wrist and pull it tight.

7 Pick up the yarn attached to the ball, place it over your thumb and hold it in your fist. Pull the first stitch from your right wrist over your fist.

4 Make a loop with the yarn attached to the ball, so the yarn hangs in front of your hand.

8 Turn the new loop slightly clockwise so the yarn attached to the ball is closest to you. Place the new stitch on your left wrist and pull gently on the yarn attached to the ball to tighten the loop on your wrist.

11 Pull the end of your

10 Casting of is very simple. Knit two stitches. Pick up the stitch that you knitted first and pull it up and over the second stitch, then drop it completely of over your fingers so you have one stitch remaining. Repeat until you have one stitch left.

yarn through the loop and pull to tighten it. To hide the strands of yarn that you started and finished with, simply thread them between some stitches so they are hidden and fasten with a knot. Finally, now that you have finished the scarf, grab both ends of it (you will probably need another person to help you) and give it a good tug – this will even out all of your stitches).

If you are new to arm knitting, you may find it useful to watch an online tutorial. Visit woolcouturecompany.com/videos

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œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1. œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1

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easy makes

1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ

MADE TO MATCH Decorate matchboxes with your favourite photos, ready to light your Christmas candles

1œ.1œ.1œ.1 Yo u w i l l n e e d

To m a k e

1œ.1œ.1œ

Print out the photos from your phone or computer, sizing them slightly larger than the top of the matchboxes. Cut out the images and trim them to the exact size of a matchbox. Glue them to the front and back of the boxes. Using a fine brush, brush glue around all four edges and sprinkle glitter over the top. Leave to dry and shake off the excess glitter.

FE ATURE AND ST YLING: S E LI N A L A K E PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL .

›Matchboxes ›Digital photos ›Gold and silver glitter ›White printer paper ›Printer ›PVA glue ›Glue brush ›Fine artist’s brush ›Scissors

Use matchboxes to package up small gifts, then add ribbon to secure

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free gift

SANTA’S REINDEERS Here’s how to make your two felt decorations

HIGHIGHIGHIGHIGHIGHIGH To m a k e Yo u w i l l n e e d GIHGIHGIHGIHGI

0Your free kit 0Scissors 0Pins 0Sewing needle

1 2

Stitch the small black bead in place on one piece of felt to create the eye, using the white thread. Sew the button on to the nose of the same piece of felt, a little way in from the edge, making sure that it is secure. Sew on the heart with neat running stitches. Pin one red polka-dot ribbon across the neck of the reindeer and stitch the ends at the back of the felt piece, making sure to hide the stitching underneath the ribbon. Create a loop with one plain red ribbon and stitch the ends to secure the loop. Put this to one side for later. Place the front reindeer on top of the matching back piece, align and pin together. Starting from the rear end, stitch the two pieces of felt together using blanket stitch all the way around the legs and head to the front antler. Place the ribbon loop between the two pieces of felt and continue to blanket stitch around the edge to secure the loop between the pieces. Once you have stitched around the second antler, stop sewing and stuf with half the wadding. Continue to blanket stitch the pieces together until the reindeer is complete. Repeat the process with the other reindeer.

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kids’ makes

TAKE A BOW A pasta wreath is a fun way to decorate a card – or why not make it into a picture?

Yo u w i l l n e e d .Dried pasta bows (farfalle)

.Patterned card .Acrylic paint .A rtist’s brush .Glue .R ibbon

To m a k e

1

Paint the pasta bows on both sides and leave to dry. Apply a further coat, if needed. Arrange the pasta bows to form a circle on the card and glue each bow in place. Leave to dry. Tie the ribbon in a bow and stick it to the top of the wreath to finish.

2 3 FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL

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easy makes

LIGHT UP Use your empty jam jars to make a stylish centrepiece

To m a k e Yo u w i l l n e e d 1œ.1œ.1œ. ›Jam jars, cleaned and dried ›Thin wire ›Twine ›Brown paper ›A lphabet stamp ›Star punch ›Tea lights (LED battery operated)

IMAG E COURTE SY OF BO N N E M A M A N

›Scissors

1

Cut pieces of brown paper to fit inside the jar with an overlap. Use an alphabet stamp set to write festive messages on the paper. Punch out stars in a random pattern and place the brown paper inside the jar. Wrap wire round the top of the jar. Create a handle from another length of wire and secure each end at the top of the jar. Add the LED tea lights and tie twine around the rim of the jar.

2 3

Write or stencil the messages if you don’t have a stamp set

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ALL SQUARE Make this cosy wool blanket in the suggested colours or use a selection of leftover yarns

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perfect knits

SIZES 71cm x 115cm.

Yo u w i l l n e e d OCascade 220 and Cascade

220 Heathers* (aran weight), one 100g skein in each of the following shades: 9463B Gold (A), 7814 Chartreuse (B), 8010 Natural (C), 8951 Aqua (D), 7809 Violet (E), 8863 Mellow Mauve (F), 9420 Como Blue (G), 9465B Burnt Orange (H), 8906 Blue Topaz (I), 8885 Dark Plum (J), 9610 Azalea (K), 7813 Jade (L), 8836 Stonewash* (M), 2451 Nectarine* (N), 9605 Tiger Lily (O), 7803 Magenta (P) OPair of 5mm knitting needles OLarge-eyed blunt-tipped yarn sewing needle

PHOTO: H O LLY J O LI FFE

T O M A K E I N D I V I D UA L S Q UA R E S ( M A K E 6 0 ) With 5mm needles, leave a long yarn tail and cast on 21 sts. 1st to 30th rows K1, [p1, k1] to end. Cast of leaving a long yarn tail. Make a total of 60 squares in the following colours and quantities, or your own choice: 5 squares each in A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H. 3 squares each in I, J, K, L, and M. 2 squares each in N and O. 1 square in P.

TENSION 21 sts and 30 rows to each 13cm moss stitch square using 5mm needles after blocking. A B B R E V I AT I O N S cm centimetres k knit p purl st(s) stitch(es) U S I N G O T H E R YA R N S To use leftover yarns from your stash, make sure they are of a similar weight, tension and fibre content as this will make joining the squares together much easier.

TO FINISH Block each of the squares to 13cm to achieve a neat and even finish. Arrange the squares into ten rows of six squares, arranging the colours until you are happy with the design. Using the long yarn tails, join the squares using mattress stitch, working by joining the squares into pairs, then adding the pairs into rows. Once the rows are complete, join them together with mattress stitch to finish the blanket. Weave in all loose ends and if necessary block the finished blanket to even all the seams out.

Taken from 35 Knitted Baby Blankets by Laura Strutt (£12.99, CICO Books). See page 120 for details.

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œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.

FRUIT PASTEL Children will love having their own special cushion to snuggle up with

1œ.1œ.1œ. To m a k e 1œ.1œ.1œ ›A  bout 1m pink cotton fabric ›5 0cm pastel green cotton fabric ›P  ale pink and black felt ›C  otton thread in pink and black ›T  oy stuffing ›S ewing machine ›F  abric scissors

1

Fold the pink fabric in half and using the template on page 161, cut out two identical pear shapes. Place to one side. Cut out two circles from the pale pink felt for the cheeks and two smaller circles from the black felt for the eyes, plus a little black smile. Sew these in position to create a face on the front of your pear. Cut out two leaf shapes from the green fabric and pin them wrong sides together. Sew around the edge, leaving the base open. Turn through and fill with toy stuing. Pin the two pear shapes, right side together, with the filled leaf pinned between them at the top, and the leaf pointing down inside the cushion shapes. Stitch together all around, leaving just a small gap at the bottom for turning through. Turn right sides out and fill with toy stuing. Sew the gap closed.

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4 5

FE ATURE AND ST YLING: S E LI N A L A K E PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL

Yo u w i l l n e e d

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simple sewing

. œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1. œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ

. œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1. œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ1 . œ c h r i s t m a s p r i m a m a k e s 14

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easy makes

JUST ADD SPARKLE Complement a white cloth with a Scandi-style centrepiece of candles, foliage and glitter card

To m a k e

.Silver glitter card .Silver pen (optional) .Toothpicks .Self-adhesive red jewels or stickers

.A few Christmas tree sprigs or bushy greenery .Florist’s wire .Baker’s twine .3 white pillar candles (these are about 14cm high x 6.5cm diameter) .Plate, 25cm diameter .Small, sharp scissors .Sticky tape

First, make the toppers. Using the template on page 161, draw five or six stag heads on the back of the glitter card and cut them out. If you like, colour the reverse with silver pen. Using the sticky tape, fix one end of a toothpick on to the back of each stag head, making sure that the toothpick doesn’t stick out at the top. Fix a red jewel or sticker on to each nose. Bend the greenery into a circle about 20cm in diameter. Tie the sprigs together with florist’s wire. Cut three lengths of twine about 90cm long. Wrap a length of twine several times around the bottom third of each candle, securing with a knot. Place the foliage circle on the plate and put the candles inside the circle. Stick the reindeer toppers into the foliage, hiding the toothpicks in the greenery. Do not leave lit candles unattended.

2 3 4 5 6

Taken from Styling Made Simple by Katy Holder (£18.99, Hardie Grant). See page 120 for details.

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PHOTO: N ATA S H A M I LN E

Yo u w i l l n e e d

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k ids’ makes

TOY STORY

Yo u w i l l n e e d ›Children’s wooden hangers

›Eggshell paint in various colours

›Dinosaur toys ›Sandpaper ›Paint brush ›Glue gun

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To m a k e Lightly sand the hangers, then wipe them clean. Paint a couple of coats of your desired colour on both sides, leaving the hangers to dry between coats. Using a glue gun, attach the toys to the centre of the hangers and leave to dry.

FE ATURE AND ST YLING: S E LI N A L A K E PHOTO: SUSS I E B E LL . H A N G E RS , I K E A

These fun clothes hangers are bound to encourage tidy habits

2 5 - PA G E

christmas

SPECIAL

createandcraft.tv

inspiring projects from CREATE AND CRAFT Find brilliant ideas for everything from making cards and decorating a showstopper Christmas cake to knitting a festive gift

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09056 480 480*

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*Calls cost 20p per minute plus network extras

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createandcraft.tv

leafY greens Use stiffened fabric to make the layered leaves for this stunning card

Essentials by TatteredLace®. Tattered Lace Baby Blue die-cutting machine Holly Trio die and embossing folder die set, TRI13 Circles die set, ETL04 M ini Seasons Greetings, DX74 Festive-print fat quarter in green W hite card G old card Red card Red ribbon Red gems Terial Magic Spray Double-sided tape Detail glue

Place the fat quarter into a basin or bowl and spray it all over with Terial Magic. Scrunch and squeeze it to make sure that the liquid is distributed throughout the fabric. Spray and squeeze again until there are no dry spots. Leave the fabric until almost dry, then press with an iron (you can speed up the drying time using a hairdryer). Using the Holly Trio dies, cut approximately 16 large, 14 medium and 14 small holly leaves from the prepared fabric. Using the No. 3 and No. 5 from the Essentials Circles die set together, cut the large circular frame from white card. Repeat with No. 3 and No. 6 to make a medium frame, and No. 3 and No. 7 for the smallest frame. Starting with the large frame, place a large holly leaf on to the frame with about 0.5cm overlapping the centre of the frame. Fold the excess to the back of the frame and stick with detail glue. Add more glue to the front of the frame and stick

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the leaf into place. Continue until the frame is covered. Repeat with the medium leaves and the medium frame, and the small leaves and the smallest frame. Cut, score and fold white card to create a 17.5cm square card blank. Cut a 17cm square from gold card and stick on to the blank with double-sided tape. Cut a 16cm square from white card and stick on to a 16.5cm square cut from red card, using double-sided tape. Stick this square on to the front of the card with double-sided tape. Stick the largest frame on to the card with detail glue, followed by the second and third frames to create the wreath. Using the Mini Seasons Greetings die, cut out one from gold card and stick on to the bottom right corner. Tie a bow with the red ribbon and stick it on to the wreath with detail glue. Dot groups of red gems on to the wreath to finish.

FE ATURE: ROZ I LLI N GWO RTH PHOTO: H E A RS T S TU D I OS U K

YOU wILL NEED All dies used in this project are

TO MAKE

Te r i a l M a g i c is a liquid fabric stabiliser that turns fabric into a fray-free, paper-like material that can be easily manipulated. It can used for 3D projects, such as making artificial flowers and origami, and can even be printed on using a home printer. It makes fabric perfect for stamping and stencilling, will hold pleats and folds and can be washed out if required. c h r i s t m a s p r i m a m a k e s 14 c r e a t e a n d c r a f t

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createandcraft.tv

on the bright side Make unique napkins for your Christmas table with festive stamps and vibrant paints

YOUBlockwallah wILL NEED blocks: Night Star, Crystal Flake, Spiral Christmas Tree, Curvy Christmas Tree Large linen napkin Fabric paints in green, red, white, blue, black Tape measure Masking tape Sponges, for applying paint I ron

TO MAKE Sponge green paint on to the Spiral Christmas Tree block using a tapping motion and create a circle in the centre of the napkin using the block. Imagine the circle is a clock face – start by printing a tree at 12 o’clock, and then print another at 6 o’clock, overlapping the star at the top of the tree in the centre of the circle. Then print again at 2, 4, 8 and 10 o’clock. Sponge red paint on to the Night Star block. Print stars along two edges of the napkin. Start of by printing one at each end of the line, then evenly distribute the printed stars between them. On the other two edges, evenly distribute prints of the Curvy Christmas Tree block in green. You can space the blocks by eye, or use a tape measure, if you prefer. Use masking tape as a visual guide, if required.

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Mix the fabric paints together to create custom-blended colours for the Crystal Flake snowflake prints. Mix white with a little blue to create a cornflower blue paint, and then mix white with a little black to create a silvery grey paint. Print a blue star in each corner, then print the blue and grey snowflakes as shown (above), parallel to the edges. Finally, add a red Night Star to the centre of the circle, to add a focal point. Before fixing the paint, check the instructions for your particular paint. The paint used here, Pebeo SetaColour, has to be ironed on the reverse on a low heat for five minutes to set the fabric paint, so the item is washable.

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FE ATURE: L AU R A VAC K E R PHOTO: H E A RS T S TU D I OS U K

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beading beautiful Thread this beaded star on to a chain and wear it as a festive pendant

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createandcraft.tv

YOU4mmwILL NEED bicones 50m KO beading thread 10g size 11 seed beads 2 beading needles Ruler Scissors Clear nail polish or strong glue

Before you begin, we have used two colours in this example – in the text they are labelled A and B with the number of each colour to string before the letter. As you follow the steps below, you will be using a brick stitch to make your star.

FE ATURE: SA R A H M I LL SO P PHOTO: H E A RS T S TU D I OS U K

TO MAKE Starting row. Thread a needle with 100cm of beading thread. String 2A and position at the centre of the thread. Go through both beads so they sit side by side, and then go through the first one again. Pull tight. You should have a ‘bridge’ of thread going between them. Row 2. This bridge is where you’ll be attaching the next row. Pick up 1A and 1B. Pass the needle under the bridge of thread. Pull through so that the beads sit on top of the bridge. Go up through the second bead just strung. Pull through. Pick up 1A. Go under the bridge you’ve just used. Pull through. Go up through this bead again. This technique is how you increase the number of beads in each row; two seed beads are sharing the same bridge at either end of the row.

Row 3. Pick up 1A and 1B. Pass the needle under the bridge of thread connecting the beads added in step 2 (again coming from the back to the front). Pull through so that the new beads sit on top of the bridge. You will probably need to help them sit side by side. Go up through the second bead just strung. Pick up 1B and go under the next bridge, then up through the same bead. Pick up 1A, go under the bridge you’ve just been under, then back up this bead. Turn over your work after doing so. Rows 4 to 6. Add rows 4 and 5 using the method above. The row at the tips that have just a single bead in them will be added later. Always start the row by adding two beads and finish it so that the last bead shares a bridge with the previous bead. When you get to the 6th row, just bead half a row (three beads). This is the point where the empty central space begins, so you’ll be decreasing at the centre and increasing on the outside. To begin the decrease, pass the needle back down the middle bead just strung and pull through. Push the needle under the thread that is holding this second bead in place. You may prefer to go under the bridge instead. Go up through the middle bead again. Additional rows. Pick up 1A and 1B. Go under the bridge between the two outer beads, through the second beads strung. Pull tight. Add the last bead in the row. Row 8=1A and 1B, go under the bridge just formed, then up the second bead. Pick up 1A and go under the next bridge

and back up the bead. Using the method described, add additional rows until you have 8 beads on the outside edge. You’ll now be at the point where you need to reverse the direction the beadwork goes. You’ll be increasing at the centre and decreasing on the outside. Continue with beading up to and including the first three beads of the row where the beadwork goes all the way across (see image). Remove the needle. Thread a needle on to the other strand. Pick up 1A and pass the needle up the outside edge of the diamond. Follow the image to form the other side of the diamond. Join sides together. Weave thread into work to secure & trim. Re-thread the original strand and pass it down a row and along the inside bead. Add a seed bead, bicone and seed bead. Thread through the opposite bead. Go up through the bead next to it, then back up through the seed bead and bicone group. Go through the corresponding bead, then up through the innermost bead on the last row. Finish with just two beads. Weave the end into the beadwork and trim Make another diamond, but this time leave the tail. Just pass it down so that it exits at the side of the two-bead row. Create four more diamonds and attach each one to the star using the tail. With the last thread, weave up to the point and add a loop.

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BEHIND THE C&C SCENES

MICH TURNER Mich Turner MBE is a Craft Ambassador for Create and Craft and she will be making her return to our screens this autumn, sharing her knowledge as well as showcasing exclusives.

YOU wILL NEED TOOLS Smoothers, round and straight-edged Small sharp scissors Glue stick Ruler Sharp knife Non-stick paper 2 piping bags No 2 icing nozzle Tracing paper and fine-liner pen Pokey tool F O R P R E S E N TAT I O N 1 5cm thick round cake board 2 3cm round base board

(see step 4) 80cm red ribbon, 15mm wide 3 red ribbon bows made with 60cm red ribbon, 3mm wide 55cm red-and-white polka dot ribbon, 25mm wide T O D E C O R AT E 750g marzipan, sugar paste

or white chocolate plastique, for the base coat Boiled and sieved apricot jam 750g white sugar paste, for the top coat 50g red sugar paste 50g white sugar paste Icing sugar, for dusting Small quantity of royal icing Red colouring

createandcraft.tv

Cake perfection Learn how to get a professional finish with super-smooth icing and handmade candy canes

TO COVER THE CAKE Place the cake on the 15cm cake board and cover with a base coat of your choice. First, knead the marzipan/sugar paste/white chocolate plastique until smooth and pliable. Dust the worktop with plenty of icing sugar and roll out the base coat. Brush the cake with the boiled, sieved jam. Lift the base coat centrally over the top of the cake and gently release it into position over the cake. Use your hands to cup the base coat over the sides of the cake to the base. Use a straight-edged smoother to smooth the base coat over the top and sides of the cake to create a flat top and smooth the sides. Encourage the base coat down below the cake board, then insert a sharp knife below the cake board, with the blade away from you, and cut the excess base coat away from the cake, pressing against and away from the cake board.

Add the sugar paste top coat. Knead the sugar paste until smooth and pliable but not sticky. Brush the top and sides of the cake with brandy or cooled, boiled water. Roll out the sugar paste on a worktop lightly dusted with icing sugar, then drape it over the cake. Use your hands to smooth and stick the icing over the top and sides of the cake. Run over the top and sides of the cake with plastic smoothers (rounded for the top, straight-edged for the sides) until the sugar paste is completely smooth. Trim the excess sugar paste away as before. Wrap the 15mm red ribbon around the edge of the 23cm base board and fix with glue (for a professional finish, you can line your base board with red sugar paste topped with edible glitter and varnish, If you like). Leave the cake and board to dry overnight.

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createandcraft.tv

TO DECORATE THE CAKE

Knead the red and white sugar pastes separately until smooth and pliable, but not sticky. On a worktop dusted with icing sugar, roll out each to a thin sausage about 4-5mm wide. Line up the red and white strands side by side and hold at both ends. Twist gently in opposite decorations to twist the strands together (see fig 1). Roll the joined strand to and fro, while pressing down with your hands to form one smooth roll (see fig 2). Continue to roll until it has thinned and is about 4mm wide. You can twist the roll from either end at this stage to add more twists in the pattern. Cut 6cm lengths from the long roll and curl just the top section over to shape into candy canes

(see fig 3). Leave to set for 30min on non-stick paper. Make a small quantity of royal icing. Leave some white for fixing the bows and cane – colour the rest red for the decoration and put in an airtight container. Fill a piping bag with white royal icing, snip of the end and pipe a small pearl in the centre of each candy cane. Fix the ribbon bows into position (see fig 4). Put the cake centrally on to the base board and attach the polka-dot ribbon around the base. Trace the template (see page 160) and use the pokey tool to mark the design all the way around the cake (see fig 5). Fit the second piping bag with the icing nozzle and fill with red

royal icing. Pipe the double loop of pearls, and top each loop with a fleur de lys, piping the centre pearl followed by the two sides (see fig 6). For perfect pearls, whether on the top, side or base of the cake, hold the piping bag perpendicular to the cake and just a smidgen away from it. As you apply pressure, the icing comes into contact with the cake to create a perfect round base. Continue to apply pressure to allow the icing to build up to the desired size, then release the pressure and gently snatch the nozzle away at the same time and at the same angle to leave a perfect pearl. Fix the candy canes into position on the top of the cake with a dab of icing.

Taken from Mich Turner's Cake Masterclass: The Ultimate Guide to Cake Decorating Perfection (£25, Jacqui Small). 84

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BEHIND THE C&C SCENES

createandcraft.tv

DEAN WILSON Dean Wilson, who was the 2015 winner of the Favourite Craft Celebrity and has also recently been nominated for 2016, will be presenting lots of Christmas ideas, offers and demonstrations.

Describe a typical day in the life of Dean Wilson at Create and Craft TV… After arriving at the studio, I normally go to my dressing room, put on the kettle and get changed. The day starts with a meeting with the team to discuss the shows and to put together a plan – yes I do have a sort-of plan! Between shows, there are various things I may do, including voice overs, upcoming product prep and, of course, eating. It’s a fairly hectic time, as we are a reactive business and things can change very quickly. But, overall, it’s quite exciting and lots of fun.

What’s it like to wear your earpiece – with one person saying one thing and someone else saying something a little different? It’s pretty weird, but I’ve been doing this for 25 years, so practice makes perfect, I think. You have to do four things really, listen to the producer, listen to the director, listen to the guest and then also think about what you’re going to do next. Plus, you need to make it entertaining as well… easy! A good team helps to make it as smooth as possible, but I do have a quiet time in the car on the way home to calm down after work.

What are the difficult parts of being a live TV presenter? Juggling a show, as above, and also when you’re trying to look after a new guest to make it as

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easy for them as possible. It can also be diicult to keep up the energy levels to make it fun to watch all day.

What are the fun bits about presenting live? When things go wrong and you end up in stitches – that never happens. Just coming to work, being creative and having fun.

Can you tell us about a presenting disaster that has taught you a lifelong lesson you now use when you’re on air? The most famous has to be my dancing disaster with Pollyanna Pickering, which has now been shown on It’ll Be Alright On The Night, twice! This has taught me not to dance on air without checking your partner is fully prepared for the routine.

Do you have any sneaky secrets that happen off air that you can share with us? Hmmm, I don't do secrets. I’m quite open, so if I did have any, I’ll probably say them on air anyway! But, there is a lot of chocolate consumed in the green room. I know, breaking news!

And finally Dean, what do you love most about your job? It has to be the people. Everyone is lovely, and we all have such a giggle, even when the going gets tough. That is an absolute blessing when you come to work.

What qualities, would you say, are needed to be an award-winning TV presenter? I think you definitely need to have a certain type of personality, and you have to try to be yourself, as people buy from people. Positivity is key, and an ability to recall information is essential. Preparation is absolutely vital because with live television, anything can happen!

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BEHIND THE C&C SCENES

EMMA SMITH Emma is part of the design team at Craftwork Cards (craftwork cards.co.uk). ‘I’ve been making cards for about 10 years, and seeing my samples on Create & Craft TV makes me so proud.’

YOU wILL NEED Craftwork Cards Christmas Cheer collection pack Craftwork Cards Christmas Cabins Craftwork Cards Candi® A3 card Craft card Glitter jewels Natural fibre grass Foam pads PVA glue Trimmer Scoring tool Ruler and pencil Cutting mat Craft knife Scissors Hot glue gun

Out of the box Send someone a surprise greeting with this amazing unfolding box

TO MAKE Take a piece of A3 card and cut 6cm of the long side. Then score at 10cm on all four sides, and cut of each corner square where the score lines meet to form the base. For the lid, cut a piece of card to measure 21.2cm x 14.7cm and score at 2.5cm on all four sides. On each corner, cut along the vertical line up to the horizontal line, fold inwards and glue into place. Cover the box panels inside and out with craft card and patterned paper: cut the card 2-3mm smaller all around than each panel. Cut the paper 2mm smaller all around than the card. Glue the patterned paper to the craft card, then glue it to the panels. Add panels to the lid in the same way. Take a Craftwork Cards cabin and cut of the front wall (this can be used as a template when decorating the inside wall).

Assemble the cabin, decorating the inside with patterned paper. Cut elements such as the tree, rocking horse and teddy from the papers, and add glitter as desired. Cut a few small tabs of scrap card, fold in half and glue them to the elements so they stand up. Attach the Candi (10mm domed circles) to the roof using a hot glue gun or silicone glue gel. Cover with PVA glue and add glitter. Leave to dry. Shape the poinsettia petals (from the Christmas Cheer collection) using a ball tool/pencil, glue three layers together. Add Candi to the centre. Arrange the cabin towards one end of the box, add the fibre grass, poinsettias and all the other decorative elements, adding more glitter to them, if you like. To finish, stick a sentiment on to the top of the box lid, layered on card and fixed with a foam pad.

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FE ATURE: EM M A S M ITH PHOTO: H E A RS T S TU D I OS U K

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all in a row Cute die-cut gingerbread men bring a bit of fun factor to a homemade card

TO MAKE YOUDie-cutting wILL NEED machine Tonic Rococo Petite Gingerbread Man D1011E Tonic Christmas Wreath Die, Tis the Season 641E Tonic Essentials Card Pack Heated Hues 787E Tonic Essentials Card Pack Monochrome 791E Tonic Mirror Card Christmas Gloss 795E Tonic Brown Craft Card 9558E Nuvo by Tonic Studios Glitter Drops in Ruby Slippers 752N A4 sheet of white card Red card W hite card T hin ribbon or baker’s twine 3D foam pads W hite gel pen Glue

Fold an A4 sheet of white card in half, making an A5 tent card. Using the Rococo Petite die, cut three gingerbread men from craft card. With foam pads on the back of each one, put the waste back into place to get the detailed efect. Place the die back on top, and highlight the embossed detail with a white gel pen. Glue a length of thin ribbon or baker’s twine across the top of the card, adding a small bow at either end. Stick the gingerbread men over the twine, arranging the centre one straight and the side ones at an angle. Cut a 3cm deep strip of kraft card to fit across the width of the card. On top of that, stick a red 2.5cm deep co-ordinating strip. Add a white 2cm deep strip. Glue the 15mm ribbon on to this before attaching the strip to the bottom of the card front. Die cut the Tis The Season twice in gold and silver craft card (so the silver is a drop shadow). Glue the oval sentiment on to red card and cut around the outline. Attach to the top of the ribbon strip with a 3D foam pad. Finish the card of with a matching bow and the Glitter Drops buttons.

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FE ATURE: E D N A TAY LO R PHOTO: H E A RS T S TU D I OS U K

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winter woodlands Send seasonal greetings with this lovely window card

are Essentials by TatteredLace®. Tattered Lace Baby Blue die-cutting machine Scene Stepper die set, ETL26 Snowflakes die set, 111 Essentials Book CD W hite card Dark green card Pale blue card Pale blue organza ribbon Pearl embellishment Double-sided tape Double-sided foam tape Super sticky tape Silicone glue

Using the Essentials Scene Stepper die set, cut one from white card. Following the instructions on the pack, fold into shape. Cut away the left and right uprights to create a right-folding card with an aperture. Cut a 13.5cm x 14.5cm rectangle from pale blue card and stick on to the inside of the card. Using the Essentials Book CD, print out the verse on to white card. Cut the verse to measure 13cm x 14cm, but make sure to ofset it so that the verse sits in the centre of the aperture before cutting. Stick it on to the inside back of the card. Using the Scene Stepper die set, cut the front of the card only from green card and trim away the uprights on both sides to create a frame. Trim 0.5cm around the frame and stick on to the front of the card with double-sided tape. Cut the front of the Scene Stepper die from white card. Cut the front of the card

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only from white card and cut away the uprights on both sides to create another frame. Trim 0.7cm around the frame and stick on to the front of the card with double-sided tape. Using the Scene Stepper die set, cut out three trees and the forest landscape from green card. Stick the landscape behind the bottom frame edge with double-sided tape. Stick two trees in the left bottom corner with double-sided tape and stick the third tree on top with foam tape. Tie a three-loop bow with pale blue organza ribbon and stick in the top right corner of the card with super sticky tape or silicone glue. Using the Snowflakes die set, cut out a snowflake from pale blue card stock and stick it on to the centre of the bow with super sticky tape or silicone glue. Stick a pearl on to the centre of the snowflake with super sticky tape or silicone glue. Glue the snowflake on to the centre of the bow and finish with a pearl embellishment.

FE ATURE: V I K K I D E A K I N PHOTO: H E A RS T S TU D I OS U K

YOU wILL NEED All dies used in this project

TO MAKE

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createandcraft.tv

on the cards This layered card with a hand-coloured wreath is perfect for someone extra-special

YOU wILL NEED All dies used in this project are Renaissance Jubilee by Spellbinders®. Grand Calibur GC-200 by Spellbinders® Platinum PL-001 by Spellbinders or Platinum 6 PE-100 Ravenna dies S6-095 Jubilee tags dies S4-653 3 -D Shading Cling Stamp, Wreath DSC-011 Green card base Cream card 1 small paper flower 2 corsage pins 3 rhinestones Black permanent ink pad Foam dots G old poster board Marker pens Sheer ribbon Small sentiment stamp

Die-cut two pieces of cream card and one piece of gold poster board using the Ravenna die (largest die). Stamp the Wreath on to one of the die-cut piece of cream card using the permanent black inkpad. Colour with markers. Layer all three pieces of the die-cut card, with the wreath on top and the gold poster board in-between. Stick all pieces on to the green card base. Wrap sheer ribbon through the card and tie in a double bow. Embellish with corsage pins and a paper flower. Die-cut tags (one big and one small set) from cream card and gold poster board. Emboss all tags. Stamp the sentiment on to the small tag. Layer the tags together and stick in place using foam dots. Attach to the card. Embellish the tag with rhinestones.

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FE ATURE: D E B I A DA M S PHOTOS: H E A RS T S TU D I OS U K

TO MAKE

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createandcraft.tv

blocks of colour Snuggle up in front of the fire with this cosy knitted cushion cover

YOUDeramores wILL NEED Studio Chunky 1 x 100g ball in Ruby 70815 (A), 2 x 100g balls in each of Elephant 70811 (B) and Taupe 70804 (C) Pair of 9mm knitting needles 5 buttons or small toggles Large-eyed blunt-tipped yarn sewing needle

SIZE Approximately 50 x 50cm TENSION 1 1 sts and 16 rows to 10cm square over st st using 9mm needles

ABBREVIATIONS beg beginning cm centimetres cont continue k knit p purl rep repeat R S right side st(s) stitch(es) st-st stocking stitch tog together y f yarn forward to make a st

TO MAKE

TO FINISH

With 9mm needles and C, cast on 54 sts and work in st-st throughout. Beg with a k row, work 34 rows in C. Break yarn. Next row (RS) K27 sts in B, k27 sts in A. Cont to work colours as set for next 33 rows. Ridge row (RS) P to end. Change to C and beg with a p row, work 33 rows in st-st. Change to A, k 1 row. Moss st row K1, [p1, k1] to end. Rep the last row twice more. Next (buttonhole) row (RS) K4, [k2tog, yf, moss st 9] 4 times, k2tog, yf, moss st 4. Work a further 3 rows in moss st. Cast of in moss st. With RS facing and B, pick up and k54 sts along the cast on edge. K 1 row. Beg with a k row, work 34 rows in st-st. Change to A, k 1 row. Work 7 rows in moss st. Cast of.

Join side seams overlapping the button band with the buttonhole band. Sew in yarn ends and then work running sts to form tartan as follows: With RS facing, cut lengths of yarn in the 3 colours, the length or width of the knitted fabric plus 40cm. Lay them across the cushion in order to plan where you would like them or matching the image shown. Thread up a knitter’s needle with the desired colour and weave over and under across the rows required or in and out of sts going from top to bottom. Do not sew in ends at this stage. Repeat the process matching the image of the cushion. Check that weaving has not altered the tension of knitted fabric and adjust if necessary before weaving in the yarn ends. Sew on buttons or toggles.

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FE ATURE: J ESS E W I LD PHOTO: QUA I L S TU D I O PAT TERN FRO M TH E STUDIO COLLECTION – SE VEN KN IT TED WINTER ACCESSORIES

BACK OF CUSHION

FRONT OF CUSHION

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a touch of frost This silver card makes a pretty alternative to red and green ones

YOU20cmwILL NEED x 20cm white card blank Vellum paper Craftwork Cards Christmas Cheer stamp set Acrylic block Embossing ink pad Embossing powders in pink, white and silver sparkle Natural fibre bundle from Anna Marie Designs Heat tool Glue Pencil

TO MAKE Stamp the leafy fir cone and mistletoe designs several times on to vellum paper using the embossing ink pad. Cover with white embossing powder, tap of the excess and then use the heat tool to heat the embossing powder until it melts and becomes raised and shiny. Repeat for the poinsettia design, using pink embossing powder. Use silver sparkle for the holly leaf design. Repeat these steps until you have enough designs to make a full wreath. Cut out all the stamped and embossed designs. Curl and shape the motifs to add some dimension and interest. Draw a circle on the card blank very lightly using a pencil. Arrange the fir cone sprigs and mistletoe with the poinsettia flowers and holly leaves. Once you are happy with the layout, glue the elements in place, adding the fibres under them.

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FE ATURE: EM M A S M ITH PHOTO: S TU D I O 3 3

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BEHIND THE C&C SCENES

createandcraft.tv

First of all, why did you decide to start this challenge and why is it important to you?

JOHN BLOODWORTH In order to raise money for the charity Mind, John is travelling around the UK counties. Here he is teaching workshops, doing crafting and writing a blog – all from his motorhome called Maisy.

Well, there were multiple reasons. There wasn’t just one thing that made the decision for me. I knew that I wanted to do something diferent after working the same job for 14 years and then I had the idea to travel around the country in a motorhome, doing creative workshops. I wanted to attribute the challenge to something and to have a reason for doing it so, as Mind is close to me personally, I decided to raise some money at the same time. It just developed from there.

Why did you choose the charity Mind? Mind has been fundamental to me and has helped me through some very tough times. Mind is a charity that covers such a broad spectrum of mental health issues and helps a number of people. Plus, it also promotes crafting as a therapeutic pastime for those sufering with mental health. Mind also helps families and close friends in dealing and coping with a loved one who has mental health issues. So when I decided to raise money for a charity, I knew that I wanted to give something back to Mind – it was a perfect fit.

Create and Craft is your chosen partner on your journey – why did you choose us? I wanted to partner with a company that recognised the fundamental benefits of a creative pastime as a way to improve mental wellbeing. Knowing Create and Craft as well

as I do, I knew that they would be an ideal match for the challenge. They were also the first to actually show interest in what I was doing and why I was doing it.

What three words would you choose to describe the challenge so far? Wow, this is a hard one! It has definitely been 1) challenging, but also 2) cathartic and 3) amazing.

Your now famous motorhome is called Maisy – why did you choose that name? A close friend, who presents on Create and Craft, suggested that I name the motorhome. After numerous suggestions, I decided that I liked ‘Maisy the Motorhome’, which has stuck ever since.

So, you’re three months into the tour. It must be so fulfilling doing this challenge – what have you enjoyed the most so far? Wow, where to start! I have really enjoyed talking to other people who have shared similar experiences – and I found it really uplifting. And it has also been great meeting people who just love crafting. Everywhere I’ve been, it has been diferent, so it’s diicult to pick just one thing.

Where can people find out more about your craft challenge? You can visit createandcraft.tv/all countieschallenge. I also have a just giving page ( justgiving.com/ allcountieschallenge) and a blog (gentlemancrafter.wordpress.com/ all-counties-craft-challenge).

And finally, what expert crafting tips can you share with us? Always have a notepad and pen to hand, or something you can make notes with, as you never know what creative inspiration or ideas will come to you in a spare moment.

WAT C H Sky 674, Freeview 23, Freesat 813, Virgin 748

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DRESS YOUR TREE Adorn your tree with sweet little felt coats, trimmed to your own designs

Yo u w i l l n e e d ›Paper ›Felt ›Buttons ›Beads ›Embroidery thread ›R ibbon ›Pinking shears ›Needle ›Sewing machine ›Wire ›Round nose pliers ›Wire cutters

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For the coat body, make a template of paper in a trapezoid shape, measuring 7.5cm at the top, 11cm at the bottom and about 15cm deep. Cut out two shapes from felt. Also cut out two pieces of the same colour felt, measuring 4cm x 9cm for the sleeves. Place the coat pieces on top of each other, and sew across the shoulder seams. Remember to leave a gap for the coat hanger. Open the coat out flat and attach a sleeve, centred at the shoulder seam, on each side. Sew straight across the open short side of the sleeve. Make sure that the seams are all on the same side. Fold the coat together right sides in and sew along the arms and down to the bottom of the coat. If you want to add braid at the bottom, do so before you stitch the side seams. Trim all loose threads and turn the coat right side out. Trim the ends of the sleeves with pinking shears and turn them up to make the cufs. Add a small collar to the coat by hand and sew on two little pockets with blanket stitches for extra cuteness. Cut a slit up the front, if you like, and add little pearl beads for buttons. Or cut a V-shape at the neck and trim with blanket stitch. Add embellishments of ribbon or braid. To make mini coat hangers (see left), use pliers to curl one end of the wire. Make a loop on either side, twist to secure, then wind the other end around where they meet. Snip of the end with wire cutters, then wrap a length of baker’s twine around the join. Hang up the decorations.

FE ATURE AND PHOTOS: K A JSA K I N S E LL A ( K A JS A K I N S E LL A .CO M )

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decorative stitching

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style ideas

FINE DINING Transform an old dining chair with paint and a new velvet seat cover for a super-smart look

1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1 To m a k e Yo u w i l l n e e d

FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTOS: SUSS I E B ELL , G E T T Y

1œ.1œ.1œ ›Old chair ›Velvet fabric ›Matching thread ›Chalk paint ›Piping cord ›Sewing machine ›Double piping foot ›Staple gun and staples ›Dressmaker’s scissors ›Small, sharp scissors ›Glue gun ›Sandpaper ›Paintbrush

BEFORE

Remove the old fabric from the chair along with old staples or tacks. Sand the frame to provide a key for the paint. Apply the chalk paint and leave to dry completely. Add a second coat, if required. Use the sandpaper to remove some of the paint on the chair to create a distressed efect. Cut the fabric to fit the chair seat, allowing 2cm extra on all edges. Starting at the back, staple the fabric to the chair frame (leave about 1cm between each staple), stretching it gently so that it is as flat as possible. Then stretch it over to the front and staple. Now do the sides. Trim the edges of the fabric close to the staples using sharp scissors. To make the piping, cut lengths of fabric on the bias (diagonally), measuring about 4-5cm in width. Cut enough lengths to fit each edge of the chair and stitch the fabric lengths together, if required. Fit the double piping foot to your sewing machine. Place the piping fabric right side down, place the cord near to the left edge of the fabric and fold this edge of fabric over it to cover it. Stitch along close to the piping. Place the second piece of piping cord on top of the fabric, next to the covered piping, and fold them both over. Stitch along between the cords on the right side. Turn over and trim the excess fabric away as close to the stitching as you can using the sharp scissors. Find detailed instructions and various techniques of how to make double piping (also known as double welting) on the internet. Use the glue gun to fix the piping to the chair to cover the raw fabric edges. Fold the fabric ends of the piping to the inside to finish.

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BOX CLEVER Create this pretty gift box with a patchwork of self-adhesive fabric

1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1 Yo u w i l l n e e d 1œ.1œ.1œ ›Star-shaped card or papier-mâché box

›Self-adhesive fabric sheets (we used Tilda fabric in Candy Bloom) ›R ibbon (width to fit depth of lid) ›Gift tag ›Paper and pencil ›Scissors ›Glue gun

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Trace the top of the box on to paper and cut it out. Draw light pencil lines from each point to the opposite inner corner to find the centre. Draw firmer lines from the centre to the inner corners of the star shape to form diamond shapes. Cut out these shapes and use as templates to cut out diamonds of self-adhesive fabric Measure the circumference of the box around all the points. Cut one length of self-adhesive fabric, measuring the height of the box base by its circumference, adding 1cm to the long sides to fold over, and a little at the end for the overlap. Cut another strip of fabric to fit all around the lid of the box, adding 1cm to each side to fold over, plus an overlap at the end. Peel the backing paper away from the section for the box lid edge and stick on carefully, folding in the edges and snipping into the angles where necessary. Repeat for the body of the box, folding the edges to the inside of the box and under the base. Peel off the backing paper from the first diamond shape and stick it to the top of the box, smoothing it carefully to remove any creases. Repeat to cover the lid. Cut a length of ribbon to fit around the box lid and stick it on using the glue gun. Tie a ribbon bow and stick it on to the centre of the box lid with a gift tag to finish.

FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL . R I B BO N A N D TAG: PI PI I .CO.U K . G I F T BOX , C RE ATE A N DC R A F T.T V

To m a k e

easy makes

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NO-MELT SNOWMAN This tiny snowman is quick to make in double crochet, so it’s perfect practice for beginners

Yo u w i l l n e e d OOne 50g ball of Debbie Bliss

Rialto DK in each of White 001 (A) and Camel 067 (B), and oddments of DK yarn in Black (C), Green (D), Red (E) and Orange (F) O4mm crochet hook OWashable toy stuffing OPair of black safety eyes O2 bells (not suitable for young children)

HEAD With A, make 2ch. Round 1 6dc in second ch from hook. Round 2 2dc in each st. 12 sts. Round 3 [1dc in next st, 2dc in next st] to end. 18 sts. Round 4 [1dc in next 2 sts, 2dc in next st] to end. 24 sts. Round 5 [1dc in next 3 sts, 2dc in next st] to end. 30 sts. Rounds 6-10 1dc in each st. Round 11 1dc in next 3 sts, dc2tog] to end. 24 sts. Round 12 [1dc in next 2 sts, dc2tog] to end. 18 sts. Insert safety eyes and secure. Stuf. Round 13 [1dc in next st, dc2tog] to end. Round 14 Dc2tog until opening is closed. Fasten of. B O DY With A, make 2ch. Round 1 6dc in second ch from hook.

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A B B R E V I AT I O N S ch chain cm centimetres dc double crochet dc2tog insert hook in st and draw up a loop, insert hook in next st and draw up another loop, yarn over, draw through all three loops on hook rep repeat ss slip stitch st(s) stitch(es)

Round 2 2dc in each st. 12 sts. Round 3 [1dc in next st, 2dc in next st] to end. 18 sts. Round 4 [1dc in next 2 sts, 2dc in next st] to end. 24 sts. Round 5 [1dc in next 3 sts, 2dc in next st] to end. 30 sts. Round 6 [1dc in next 4 sts, 2dc in next st] to end. 36 sts. Rounds 7-14 1dc in each st. Round 15 [1dc in next 4 sts, dc2tog] to end. 30 sts. Round 16 [1dc in next 3 sts, dc2tog] to end. 24 sts. Round 17 [1dc in next 2 sts, dc2tog] to end. 18 sts. Round 18 1dc in each st. Stuf body firmly. Round 19 [1dc in next st, dc2tog] to end. Round 20 [Miss 1 st, 1dc in next st] to end. 6 sts. Fasten of. Pin and sew to head. With C, work three French knots down centre of body for buttons.

A R M S (MAKE 2) With A, make 2ch. Round 1 6dc in second ch from hook. Round 2 1dc in each st. Continue until arms measure 4cm. Fasten of. Do not stuf. Pin and sew arms to body. NOSE With F, make 2ch. Round 1 6dc in second ch from hook. Round 2 1dc in each st. Round 3 Dc2tog 3 times. Round 4 [Insert hook into next st and draw up a loop] 3 times, yarn over and draw through all 4 loops. Fasten of. Do not stuf. Pin and sew to face. FAC E D E TA I L S Embroider mouth with E. SCARF With D, make 5ch. 1st row 1dc in second ch from hook, 1dc in next 3 sts. 4 sts. 2nd row 1ch, 1dc in each st. 4 sts. Join in B. 3rd row 1ch, 1dc in each st. 4th row 1ch, 1dc in each st. Join in D. 5th row 1ch, 1dc in each st. Rep 3rd to 5th rows until scarf measures 29cm. Fasten of. Sew a bell on each end. Tie scarf round neck H AT With B, make 2ch. Round 1 6ch in second ch from hook. Round 2 2dc in each st. 12 sts. Round 3 [1dc in next st, 2dc in next st] to end. 18 sts.

PHOTO: E M M A M ITCH E LL

creative crochet

Rounds 4-6 1dc in each st. Round 7 2dc in each st. 36 sts. Round 8 Dc2tog to end. 18 sts. Round 9 [1dc in next st, 2dc in next st] to end. 27 sts. Round 10 [1dc in next 2 sts, 2dc in next st] to end. 36 sts. Round 11 [1dc in next 3 sts, 2dc in next st] to last st, ss in last st. 45 sts. Fasten of. Put hat on head and make small stitches into head to secure in place.

Taken from Super-Cute Crochet by Nicki Trench (£9.99, CICO Books). See page 120 for details.

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LACE IT UP Create these delicate alphabet tags with a die-cutting machine

Yo u w i l l n e e d ›Die-cutting machine (createandcraft.tv)

›A lphabet die set (from Docrafts)

›Black paper ›Self-adhesive lace trim ›W hite gift tags ›Paper glue ›Baker’s twine

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to die-cut the letters you need from black paper. Glue the letters to the front of each gift tag and leave to dry. Peel the backing paper from the lace trim and stick it to the bottom of the gift tag. Cut a length of twine and thread through the gift tag to finish.

Use fine felt-tip pens to colour in the letters for a bold effect

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FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL

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paper makes

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SHADES OF GREY Yo u w i l l n e e d To m a k e ›Festive MDF shapes ›M ini snowflake shapes ›Bradawl for making holes (if required) ›Emulsion paint in two colours ›Paintbrush ›Baker’s twine ›Glue gun

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1 2

Work a hole in the top of the decoration using the bradawl, if the shape does not already have one. Paint each shape on both sides and leave to dry completely. Apply a further coat of paint, if required. Paint the mini snowflake shapes. Stick a snowflake in the centre of each larger shape using the glue gun. Tie a short length of twine to each decoration, then tie to a long piece of twine, leaving around 12cm between each one.

3

FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL . M I N I S N OW FL A K E S H A PES , PI PI I .CO.U K

String up painted MDF shapes in cool colours for a stylish decoration

easy makes

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SNAP HAPPY Decorate plain crackers with punched paper and ribbons for a pretty addition to your Christmas table

To m a k e Yo u w i l l n e e d ›Plain crackers (or make your own)

›Pink paper ›Velvet ribbon ›Edible gifts, to fill (optional)

›Scissors ›Lace-effect paper

FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL

punch ›Glue gun

Cut the pink paper into strips about 5cm wide to fit the circumference of a cracker, adding 2cm for overlap. Create the decorative effect on both long edges of the paper with a paper punch. Wrap a strip around each end of a cracker and stick the overlap down with the glue gun. Wrap a band around the middle, too. Tie a length of ribbon about 15cm long around each end. If you make your own crackers, drop in edible gifts, such as a few wrapped chocolates or amaretti biscuits, before tying the second ribbon.

To m a k e y o u r o w n c r a c k e r s Use the template on page 158 to cut out rectangles of thin card. (If you use paper, strengthen the body of each cracker with a cardboard tube. Adjust the dimensions according to the size of the tube.) Cut out the diamond shapes with a sharp craft knife, using a cutting board to protect your work surface. Form the cracker shape, overlapping and glueing the edges of the card, and add a snap, if you like. Tie each end with ribbon.

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STAG DO Crochet a cute reindeer for your tree – or make a few to represent all of Santa’s little helpers

Yo u w i l l n e e d (makes 4) OOne 100g ball of Toft DK OOddment of black yarn

for embroidered eyes O3mm crochet hook OToy stuffing

A B B R E V I AT I O N S ch chain dc double crochet dc2tog insert hook in st and draw up a loop, insert hook in next st and draw up another loop, yarn over, draw through all three loops on hook st(s) stitch(es) NOTES For help videos, more abbreviations and more patterns visit toftuk.com

This is a Toft pattern at toftuk.com

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HEAD Begin by dc6 into a ring. Round 1 [dc2 into next st] 6 times. 12 sts. Round 2 [dc1, dc2 into next st] 6 times. 18 sts. Round 3 [dc2, dc2 into next st] 6 times. 24 sts. Round 4 [dc3, dc2 into next st] 6 times. 30 sts. Round 5 [dc4, dc2 into next st] 6 times. 36 sts. Round 6 [dc5, dc2 into next st] 6 times. 42 sts. Rounds 7-11 dc 5 rounds. Round 12 [dc5, dc2tog] 6 times. 36 sts. Round 13 [dc4, dc2tog] 6 times. 30 sts. Round 14 [dc3, dc2tog] 6 times. 24 sts. Round 15 dc12, [dc1, dc2tog] 4 times. 20 sts. Rounds 16-18 dc 3 rounds. Round 19 [dc3, dc2 into next st] 5 times. 25 sts. Rounds 20-22 dc 3 rounds. Round 23 [dc3, dc2tog] 5 times. 20 sts. Round 24 [dc2, dc2tog] 5 times. 15 sts. Round 25 [dc1, dc2tog] 5 times. 10 sts. Round 26 [dc2tog] 5 times. 5 sts. EARS (MAKE TWO) Begin by dc6 into a ring. Round 1 [dc2 into next st) 6 times. 12 sts. Round 2 [dc1, dc2 into next st) 6 times. 18 sts. Rounds 3-4 dc 2 rounds. Round 5 [dc1, dc2tog] 6 times. 12 sts. Round 6 dc.

Round 7 [dc2tog] 6 times. 6 sts. Round 8 [dc2tog] 3 times. 3 sts. Do not stuf.

A N T L E R S (MAKE 2) (see video at toftuk.com) Ch8 and slip st to join into a circle. Rounds 1-4 dc. Round 5 dc3 into next st, dc 1. (incomplete round) Branch these 4 sts and work as follows: Rounds 1-3 dc 3 rounds. Round 4 dc2tog, dc3. 3 sts. Round 5 dc2tog, dc1. 2 sts. Rejoin main stem. Round 1 dc5, dc2 into next st 7 sts. Rounds 2-4 dc 3 rounds. Round 5 [dc3 into next st] twice (incomplete round) Branch these 6 sts and work as follows: Rounds 1-2 dc 2 rounds. Split into two 3-st rounds and work each as follows: Round 1 dc. Round 2 dc2tog, dc1. 2 sts. Rejoin main stem. Round 1 dc4, dc2 into next st 6 sts. Rounds 2-6 dc 5 rounds. Split into two 3-st rounds and work as follows: Rounds 1-3 dc 3 rounds. Round 4 dc2tog, dc1. 2 sts. Round 5 dc2. Stuf lightly before sewing into position. TO FINISH Stuf head and sew ears in place. Sew a loop on top of the head and oversew to secure. Finish by embroidering the eyes with black wool.

PHOTO: E M M A M ITCH E LL

creative crochet

Make sure the stitches are closely worked or the stuffing will show through

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COSY CHRISTMAS Use tiny florals for this patchwork snowflake cushion to give a homespun look

Yo u w i l l n e e d .50cm fabric (137cm wide, we used Tilda fabric in Candy Bloom), for cushion .Contrast cotton fabric, for patches .Thread .Paper and card, for templates .Needle and pins .Iron .Sewing machine .Plastic snap fasteners .40cm square cushion pad .Scissors

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Using the templates on page 162, cut the two hexagons out of thin card. Using the large card hexagon, cut out 12 fabric hexagons in one design and one hexagon from contrast fabric for the centre of the design. Cut out 13 paper hexagons, using the small card template. Place each paper hexagon centrally on the back of a fabric hexagon, then fold, pin and tack the edges to the inside. With right sides facing, stitch one of the 12 patches to the contrasting centre patch along one edge, using small whipstitches. Stitch the second patch to this on two sides. Add four more patches to form the central design. Stitch the remaining six patches to the outer edges to form the snowflake shape. Press the snowflake flat with a hot iron and leave to cool. Carefully unpick the tacking stitches and

remove the paper patches from the fabric. Cut out a square of fabric measuring 43cm square, and two rectangles of fabric measuring 43cm x 27cm. Lay the patchwork shape on the front of the cushion, then pin and tack in place, making sure that all the edges are still folded in. Sew the snowflake to the cushion with small whipstitches. Pin the two back sections of fabric together, right sides together, and stitch together using a 5cm seam allowance, leaving a large gap (about 30cm) in the middle. Press the seam in one direction. Pin the back and front together, right sides facing, ensuring that the seam is still facing one way. Stitch all around the edge, taking a 1.5cm seam allowance. Trim and notch corners and turn to the right side. Sew the plastic snap fasteners to the back opening and insert the cushion pad to finish.

FE ATURE AND ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTO: SUSS I E B ELL . DECO R ATI O NS FRO M P OU N DL A N D

To m a k e

decorative stitching

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Stocking TOPS

FE ATURE: G I LL W R IG HT ST YLING: C ATH ER I N E WO R A M PHOTOS: SUSS I E B ELL .

A small print in red and white looks lovely used as festive decorations

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simple sewing

Yo u w i l l n e e d 1œ.1œ.1œ. ›2 contrasting fabrics ›Polyester wadding ›Thin ribbon ›Matching thread ›Sewing machine ›Needle and pins ›Paper, for templates ›Dressmaking scissors

Lined stocking Stitch a stocking for everyone in the family – in any size you like

To m a k e 1 Cut out a template for the stocking from paper, making the stocking the size you require and allowing enough length for a turn-over at the top (see page 159). 2 Cut out two pieces of fabric that will be seen with the right sides together (for the outer stocking) and two pieces for the wrong sides together (inner stocking). Allow a 1.5cm seam allowance all around. 3 Cut out a star (see template on page 159) from the fabric that will be inside the stocking. On the front of one of the outer pieces, pin and stitch the star by hand or use a sewing machine. 4 Machine stitch each stocking, right sides together, and trim seams. 5 Turn the stocking with the star motif through to the right side and place the other one snugly inside, so all raw seams are hidden between the two. 6 Fold over both layers at the top to create a large cuf. Turn in both layers by 1cm and slip stitch or machine topstitch to enclose the raw edges. 7 To make a loop from the main fabric, cut a strip of fabric, fold in the long edges a little and press. Fold the strip in half lengthways, wrong sides together, and topstitch close to the edge. Stitch the loop into place through both layers on the inside of the cuf.

Padded decorations These are quick to make as they don’t have to be turned through – the raw edges add to the homespun charm

1 Using the templates (see page 162) and scraps left over from the stocking, cut out two pieces of fabric for each decoration.

3 Cut a piece of wadding slightly smaller than the size of the main fabric, place between the two fabric layers, wrong sides in, and stitch all around.

2 Cut out and stitch a contrast heart on each decoration.

4 Fold a piece of ribbon and stitch to the decoration.

To m a k e

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These great books will inspire everything from fab knits and party planning to sweet treats

† …

‡

by Katy Holder (£18.99, Hardie Grant) Beautifully styled tables aren’t just for professionals! In this book, you’ll find plenty of inspiring and creative ways to style your next big dinner party, special occasion or simply decorate your home. Why not use stones as napkin weights, branches and pompoms to make a mobile or Washi tape to decorate gift tags, paper bags and more?

FALKLAND ARAN (PURE BLISS COLLECTION) by Debbie Bliss (£7.75, available from stockists of Debbie Yarns) Debbie Bliss, the renowned knitwear designer, is back with a new collection of patterns that use classic stitchwork.

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There are patterns for men, women and children, and you can learn how to make jumpers, jackets, hats and snoods with cable and fisherman styles.

SCANDIKITCHEN: FIKA & HYGGE by Brontë Aurell



(£16.99, Ryland Peters & Small) Fika is a Swedish word that is used to describe people meeting up for a cup of cofee and something sweet to eat. While Hygge roughly translates as a feeling of wellbeing, or the cosy feeling you have when you are with loved ones and simply enjoying life. Celebrate the Scandi way by combining the two concepts – make cakes, biscuits, cookies and breads and share them with friends and family.

35 KNITTED BABY BLANKETS by Laura Strutt



(£12.99, CICO Books) The designs in this book include blankets for travelling, for the nursery and for playtime, as well as ones that can double up as rugs and even a comforter. Take your pick from patterns such as a sweet newborn cocoon or even a bunting blanket and make a homemade gift that will be treasured for years.

BONNE MAMAN: THE SEASONAL COOKBOOK



(£14.99, Simon & Schuster) The 88 recipes included in this book cover both savoury and sweet, but are all based on how to make the best use of conserves and compotes

COM PILE D BY: A N E I R A DAV I E S

STYLING MADE SIMPLE

book reviews

‰

ˆ



Š

‹

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1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ.1œ in your cooking. The recipes are simple and easy to follow and include varied dishes, from Crispy Crumbed Romano Peppers to Strawberry Ripple Ice Cream. The book also includes ideas for how to use your old Bonne Maman jars to make everything from advent calendars to table centrepieces.

THE COLLECTION by Erika Knight (£18.99, Quadrille) You will be able to build a capsule collection of knits, plus a few glamorous extras with this book that includes a timeless range of knitwear. This compilation of Erika’s favourite knitting patterns covers wardrobe basics and knits inspired by old Hollywood sirens, plus homewares that will transform a room.

DREAMWEAVER: A COLOURING ADVENTURE TO HELP YOU DREAM THE NIGHT AWAY by Olivia Whitworth (£10, Quadrille), out 6 October This colouring book follows a sleeper’s dream sequences as she follows her cat through forest scenes, mountains, oceans, skies and city landscapes. Filled with original and Japanese-inspired prints, the images are meant to aid relaxation so you fall asleep easily.

SUPER-CUTE CROCHET by Nicki Trench (£9.99, CICO Books) If you’re a fan of the Japanese amigurumi – the craft of creating cute crochet animals – then this is the book for you. It is packed

full of makes, from farm and exotic animals to festive toys (such as the snowman we’ve featured on page 106). The easy-to-follow patterns use only the simplest of stitches, so they are perfect for beginners.

DECORATE FOR A PARTY by Holly Becker and Leslie Shewring (£20, Jacqui Small) For anyone who has a party to plan – whether it’s for a birthday, bridal shower, dinner or smaller crafting get-togethers – this book should definitely be on your wish list. Projects are tailored to diferent themes and even colours, ranging from Brights, Moody and Evening Sparkle to Forest Picnic – so there are plenty of ideas to wow your guests.

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Just for

CH RIS TM AS fairs fetes Festive fun Holkham Estate Let the festivities begin with classical music and opera on the candlelit tour of Holkham Hall. You can see the state rooms stunningly decked out for Christmas and can listen to Navarra, the award-winning string quartet, and carols by Gothic Voice. Or visit Santa – who will be making a special appearance – and his elves. ›Visit holkham.co.uk

PHOTOS: G E T T Y, PEROW N E I NTE R N ATI O N A L , S TE V EN H AY WOO D, © C H ATS WO RTH H OUS E TRUS T

Norfolk

Cotehele Cornwall

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Blenheim Palace Woodstock The grounds of Blenheim, which were originally designed by Capability Brown, have been transformed into a winter wonderland as part of the magical Christmas trail. Explore the scented fire gardens adorned with lanterns, and discover trees that sing and hedgerows that sparkle. All this, plus much-loved Christmas music, the chance to see Santa and drink hot chocolate and mulled wine. ›25 November to 2 January, visit blenheimpalace.com

FE ATURE: SU E M cN E I LL

This year is the 60th anniversary of the Christmas flower garland, which had humble beginnings but is now a magnificent 100ft garland. The 20,000 to 35,000 flowers are grown and dried on the Cotehele estate and the garland is then put together by the gardeners. You can watch it being assembled or return to see it magnificently displayed in the grand house between 12 November and 31 December. ›Call 01579 351346 or visit nationaltrust.org.uk

travel

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden North Yorkshire Get into the Christmas spirit with a glass of mulled wine as you wander around the illuminated grounds or enjoy carols by candlelight. Adults can also make natural decorations at the Christmas floristry workshop, while kids can visit Father Christmas’s Grotto and look for reindeer with a special map. ›Call 01765 608888 or visit nationaltrust.org.uk

Chatsworth House Derbyshire Visit one of the country’s most beautiful stately homes and see it transformed into an enchanting wonderland inspired by The Nutcracker. Stock up with festive buys from more than 100 stalls at the Christmas Market, and enjoy German beers or mulled cider at an outdoor bar. You can enjoy live entertainment, gourmet burgers, fudge and chocolate treats, or buy gifts from the Chatsworth range. ›12-30 November. For more info, visit chatsworth.org

Bath Somerset The Bath Christmas Market runs for 18 days and has more than 170 stalls situated in the city centre of this World Heritage Site. You’ll find everything from handmade candles, toys and cheese to freshly baked mince pies. This is a popular market and visitors come from all over and often make a weekend of it, so it’s best to book early if you plan to do the same. ›24 November to 11 December. To find out more, visit bathchristmasmarket.co.uk

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y t f a r C

ursued p o h w s r e esign Meet the d for craft and design ns their passio

wool Couture CompanY CLAIRE GELDER

C

laire Gelder is a crochet and knitting designer as well as an arm knitter. As a strong believer in the therapeutic value of crafts, she encourages others to get involved with arm knitting, and sells kits, giant yarn and handcrafted wooden needles on her website. Although Claire has been knitting and crocheting since the age of 10, it was when she was looking for something creative and quick to do in the evenings after work that she discovered giant yarn and arm knitting. Her intention is to keep old crafts alive, and to create a supportive environment as well as helping disadvantaged people into work. She now employs local crafters, including a woodturner to make her needles. ‘We’re about working and making what we can within the UK, importing as little as possible,’ she says. Claire is an all-round crafter but particularly loves working with wool because it is so sculptural. ‘With wool, you’re designing something that is 3D,’ she says. She has no trouble coming up with ideas. She just thinks about what she or others would like to wear and designs accordingly. She is also inspired by colours and chooses them depending on her mood or the season. After conquering the giant wool market, Claire is now getting into giant weaving and has just done her first design on a small scale.

‘I want to take weaving to a whole new level’

woolcouturecompany.com

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designers

The New Craft House ROSIE AND HANNAH

FE ATURE: A N E I R A DAV I E S PHOTOS: H E A RS T M AGA ZI N E S U K , G E T T Y, © GAV I N J OY NT

R

osie Scott and Hannah Silvani run The New Craft House, a blog and website where they share their makes and sell craft kits. The duo, who both live in London, have been friends since school, but it was after graduating, when they both began crafting separately, that they started the blog. We wanted a place to share our projects and encourage others to learn traditional crafts,’ says Hannah. They credit their grandmothers as their inspiration – Rosie’s grandmother was brilliant at embroidery and tapestry, and Hannah’s was an amazing quilter. Until last year, Rosie and Hannah didn’t have plans to pursue a crafty career – Hannah was doing a Masters in European Politics and Rosie was working in marketing – but Rosie says they love working on their business full-time. ‘We both find it so much more rewarding to be able to be creative at work,’ she says. While Rosie’s favourite craft is knitting, Hannah enjoys sewing. ‘I love how you can make unique clothes in your own style that fit you perfectly,’ she says. ‘Since starting the blog, it has been brilliant trying other crafts and improving my dressmaking skills. I’m now on a mission to make a handmade wardrobe,’ says Hannah. Rosie and Hannah plan to expand The New Craft House with more craft kits and will also be running their own workshops.

‘I love how You can make completelY unique clothes in Your own stYle that fit You perfectlY' thenewcrafthouse.com

Continued overleaf

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designers

'between us, we’re reallY good at finding stuff'

BerYlune

EMILY DAVIES, AMY DAVIES AND ZOË SHARP

B

erylune is a pint-sized department store and online shop run by sisters Emily and Amy Davies and their best friend Zoë Sharp. The tiny shop, in Royal Leamington Spa, is home to an eclectic mix of items, ranging from stationery and accessories to independent designers. Emily says they all love to search through Pinterest and Instagram for new ideas. Emily and Amy opened Berylune in 2012 after a few years of selling at Christmas markets. Zoë, who was a customer of theirs, joined them on a part-time basis in 2013 and, in 2014, she became a full-time business partner. ‘She ran out of things to buy and had to come and be a partner,’ Emily jokes. While Emily, Amy and Zoë all have input into what products they sell, they have diferent roles within the shop – Amy styles the shop shelves, Emily takes the photos and Zoë works on the website. It is definitely a team efort, says Emily. Their community is important to them and Emily says they would love a bigger shop space, with a permanent place for people to come and craft together. For now, though, Emily says the best part of running Berylune is selling the products they’ve chosen. ‘Every time we sell something, it puts a smile on my face,’ she says.

berylune.co.uk

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baking

ALL GOOD THINGS Celebrate the Scandinavian way and get cosy with cake

                                   

MIX it BEAT it BAKE it ICE it EAT IT                                    

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SERVES 8-10

Budapest Roll The name has nothing to do with Hungary – this version of the cake was invented in Sweden                     

YOU wILL NEED •25cm x 35cm Swiss roll pan, greased and lined with baking parchment •Large piping bag fitted with a plain nozzle (optional)

INGREDIENTS FOR THE MERINGUE 06 egg whites 0A pinch of salt 0325g caster sugar 030g cornflour 01tsp white wine vinegar 0150g toasted hazelnuts, roughly

ground in a food processor FOR THE FILLING 0300ml double cream 01tsp icing sugar 01tsp vanilla extract 03 or 4 fresh mandarins FOR THE TOPPING 050g dark chocolate, melted 025g hazelnuts, toasted and

roughly chopped

TO MAKE n Preheat the oven to gas mark 4/180°C (160˚C). In a very clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a small pinch of salt in a stand mixer (or using a hand-held electric whisk) until lightly stif. Start adding the sugar, a little at a time. Keep whisking until you reach stif peak stage – this may take a few minutes. Add the cornflour and vinegar and beat again to incorporate. o Fold in the ground hazelnuts. Fill the piping bag with the meringue mixture. Pipe into the prepared pan in an even layer. Alternatively, spoon the mixture into the pan and spread out evenly. p Bake for around 25-30min until the meringue is firm, slightly cracked on top and lightly browned. Leave to cool in the pan for about 10min. q Cut a piece of baking parchment slightly larger than the pan and place on a worktop. Carefully turn the meringue out on to the baking parchment and let it cool completely.



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r Meanwhile, whip the cream for the filling with the icing sugar and vanilla until stiff. Peel the mandarins and remove the pips and as much membrane as possible. Chop the flesh into small pieces. s Peel away the parchment paper from the cold meringue. If it is diicult to remove, brush the paper with a little water. Spread an even layer of whipped cream on top of the meringue and add the mandarin pieces. Very carefully roll up the meringue lengthways, as tightly and neatly as possible, using the baking parchment to help you. t Transfer to a serving plate, making sure that the seam is underneath. Tidy up any spills of cream. Drizzle the melted chocolate across the top, and sprinkle with the chopped hazelnuts. Chill the meringue in the fridge until ready to serve and slice into portions at the table.

baking

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MAKES 50-70

Nordic Orange & Ginger Biscuits At Christmas time all over Scandinavia a mountain of ginger cookies are consumed. This version is super-traditional, with the added zing of orange zest                     

TO MAKE YOU wILL NEED

n Mix the flour and bicarbonate of soda

•2 or more baking

o Add the butter and all the other

sheets, greased and lined with baking parchment •Cookie cutters

INGREDIENTS 0550g plain flour 01tsp bicarbonate of soda 01tsp ground ginger 01tsp ground cloves 02tsp ground cinnamon 01tsp ground cardamom 0Pinch of ground all-spice 0Pinch of salt 0150g butter, room temperature 0Zest of 1 orange 0200g golden syrup 0100g caster sugar 0100g dark brown soft sugar 0150ml double cream 0Icing sugar, to dust

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with the dry spices and salt. ingredients and mix until you have an even dough. It may still be sticky, but shape into a log and wrap in clingfilm and leave to rest in the refrigerator overnight before using. Try to resist eating the dough every time you pass by the fridge! p Preheat the oven to gas mark 6/200°C (180° in a fan oven). Roll out the dough thinly on a lightly floured work surface and use the cookie cutters to cut out shapes – you want the biscuits to be thin. (If you want to hang up the biscuits, you will need to pierce a hole in them before baking.) q Place on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 5-6min or until the biscuits turn a darker shade of brown. This is a large quantity of dough, so you may need to bake the biscuits in batches r Remove from the oven and leave to cool on a wire rack. Store the biscuits in an airtight container or serve immediately dusted with icing sugar.

baking

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MAKES 12-16

RaspberrY Squares Show me the child who doesn’t love icing, jam and biscuits – it’s the sweet and simple things that please the most                     

TO MAKE THE PASTRY YOU wILL NEED •2 baking sheets, greased and lined with baking parchment

INGREDIENTS FOR THE SWEET SHORTCRUST PA S T R Y D O U G H 0200g cold butter, cubed 0350g plain flour, plus extra

for dusting 01 25g icing sugar, plus extra for dusting 01tsp vanilla extract 01 egg FOR THE FILLING 0200g good-quality raspberry jam FOR THE TOPPING 0300g icing sugar 01-3tbsp hot water 0Sprinkles, to decorate

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n Rub the cold butter into the flour until sandy in texture, then add the icing sugar and vanilla. Add the egg and mix until the dough holds together and becomes smooth, taking care not to overmix. You can also make the dough in the food processor by pulsing the ingredients together briefly. o Wrap the dough in clingfilm and chill for at least 30min in the fridge before using.

TO MAKE n Preheat the oven to gas mark 4/180°C (160˚C). Split the dough into two equal portions and roll into two evenly sized squares, around 3mm thick. Each one should be around 30cm x 30cm. Ensure the shapes are the same size as you will be layering them later. o Put the pastry squares on the prepared baking sheets. Prick the surfaces with a fork to prevent air bubbles forming as they bake. Pop in the preheated oven to bake for about 10-12min or until slightly

golden. Remove from the oven and set the pastry sheets aside to cool on a wire rack. p On one of the cooled pastry sheets, spread a generous, even layer of the raspberry jam. Very carefully, slide the other piece of pastry on top so that it sits exactly on top of the base. Handle delicately, as the pastry can break quite easily. q Mix the icing sugar with hot water to form a smooth paste. If the paste is too thick, add a few more drops of water. If it’s too thin, then add a bit more icing sugar. Aim for the consistency of runny honey. Spread the icing on top of the pastry to evenly cover. Top with sprinkles and leave to dry. r Using a very sharp knife, cut the edges off the pastry to make straight sides. Cut into 12 large or 16 small equal pieces to serve.

baking

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MAKES 10-15

Rum Treats A ‘waste not want not’ delight, every Danish bakery has cakes made from leftover pastries                     

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INGREDIENTS

TO MAKE

0500g leftover Danish pastries

n Roughly tear the pastries into bite-sized

and/or cake (ideally both) 02 -3tbsp good quality raspberry jam 0100g icing sugar (less if your cakes are very sweet) 0100g softened butter 02tbsp cocoa powder 0Vanilla essence 02 -3tsp rum extract or essence 0Handful of oats (optional) 0Dark or light chocolate vermicelli strands

pieces and crumble up the cakes. In a stand mixer, using the paddle attachment, or in a food processor, blend the shredded and crumbled pastries and cakes with the rest of the ingredients (apart from the oats and the chocolate vermicelli) until evenly mixed. Alternatively, you can do this by hand with a wooden spoon in a mixing bowl, but it will take longer. o Taste the mixture – it may need more cocoa powder, rum extract or even icing sugar. Because this is made with leftovers, the taste will vary a bit. If you feel it needs more texture, you can add a handful of oats. p Chill the mixture in the fridge for about an hour to firm up. q Roll the mixture into balls a bit larger than the size of a golf ball, then roll in the chocolate vermicelli strands to coat evenly. Chill again in the fridge until you are ready to serve. Rum treats will keep well for two or three days wrapped in clingfilm and stored in the fridge.

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baking

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MAKES 100-120

Pepper Nuts There are no nuts in these Danish biscuits – the name refers to the shape – and they are peppered up with spices                     

YOU wILL NEED •2 baking sheets, greased and lined with baking parchment

TO MAKE n Combine all the spices for the spice mix in a small bowl

o In a separate bowl, cream together the butter

INGREDIENTS 0200g butter 0200g caster sugar 0425g plain flour 01tsp baking powder 01tsp bicarbonate of soda 0A pinch of salt 075ml double cream FOR THE SPICE MIX 0½tsp ground white pepper 01tsp mixed spice 02tsp ground cinnamon 01tsp ground cardamom 0½tsp ground ginger 0½tsp ground cloves

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and caster sugar until pale and fluffy using a hand-held electric whisk or a balloon whisk. Add the spice mix and sift in the flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda and salt. p Finally, add the double cream. Mix until you have an even dough. Wrap the dough in clingfilm and leave to chill in the fridge for 30min. q Preheat the oven to gas mark 6/200°C (180° in a fan oven). Roll the dough into little balls of around 5-6g each. Arrange on the prepared baking sheets. The dough will only spread slightly when baked, so you should be able to fit a lot on each sheet. (This dough should be enough to make over a hundred; it sounds a lot but they are small and get eaten quickly!). r Bake for 8-10min or until golden. Leave to cool on a wire rack. The pepper nuts will crisp up nicely as they cool down. Store in an airtight container.

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Custard Tarts

MAKES 12-14

In Sweden, custard tarts are baked in heart-shaped cases, but you can make these in a Yorkshire pudding tray                     

YOU wILL NEED •Pastry cutter or glass •12-hole Yorkshire pudding pan, shallow muffin pan or individual heart-shaped pans, greased with melted butter

INGREDIENTS 01 portion of Sweet Shortcrust Pastry Dough (see page 132) F O R T H E PA S T R Y C R E A M 0500ml whole milk 01 vanilla pod, seeds scraped 01 whole egg plus 1 egg yolk 0100g caster sugar 030g cornflour 0½tsp salt 025g butter

TO MAKE THE PASTRY CREAM TO MAKE THE TARTS n In a saucepan, heat the milk

n Preheat the oven to gas mark

with the vanilla seeds. o In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole egg, egg yolk and sugar, then add the cornflour. p When the milk has just reached boiling point, take off the heat and pour one third into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. q Once whisked through, pour the egg mixture back into the remaining hot milk. Return to the stove and bring to the boil, carefully. Whisk continuously as the mixture thickens, for just under a minute, then remove from the heat and stir in the salt and butter. r Pour into a cold bowl and place a sheet of baking parchment on top to prevent the cream from forming a crust as it cools. Add to the pastry once cool. The mixture will keep well in the refrigerator for a few days.

4/180°C (160˚C in a fan oven). Roll out half the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of around 2-3mm. Use a cookie cutter or glass to stamp out the closest size rounds for your pans. Line the greased pans neatly with the pastry. o Pour the cooled pastry cream (see left) into the pastry bases to fill two-thirds of the way up. p Roll out the other half of the pastry and cut out lids for the tarts – you will need a cutter a little larger than the tarts for this. Dampen the edges of the pastry lids with a little water and add to the tarts, sealing them well. Make sure that the lids fit on firmly or the pastry cream will seep out during baking. Trim away any leftover pastry. q Bake in the preheated oven for around 20-22min for smaller tarts and a little longer for larger shapes, until they start to turn brown around the edges. Remove from the oven and leave to cool in the pans before carefully lifting out. Dust with icing sugar before serving.

Taken from ScandiKitchen: Fika & Hygge by Brontë Aurell (£16.99, Ryland Peters & Small). Photos by Peter Cassidy. See page 120 for details.

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TA K E N FRO M D R E A M W E AV E R: A CO LOU R I N G A DV E NTU R E TO H E LP YOU D R E A M TH E N I G HT AWAY BY O LI V I A W H IT WO RTH

TA K E N FRO M D R E A M W E AV E R: A CO LOU R I N G A DV E NTU R E TO H E LP YOU D R E A M TH E N I G HT AWAY BY O LI V I A W H IT WO RTH

TA K E N FRO M D R E A M W E AV E R: A CO LOU R I N G A DV E NTU R E TO H E LP YOU D R E A M TH E N I G HT AWAY BY O LI V I A W H IT WO RTH

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C R E ATE A N D C R A F T.T V

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