Sewing Wellness | Collette Costello

Tag: lifestyle

  • Discover Local Craft Fairs: Your Guide to Weekend Events in the UK

    Craft fairs are a wonderful way to explore handmade products, connect with local artisans, and find unique pieces that you won’t see in stores. Whether you’re looking to buy handmade jewellery, beautiful artwork, or delicious homemade treats, craft fairs offer something for everyone. If you’re searching for “craft fairs near me this weekend,” or simply curious about craft events in the UK, this guide will help you discover what’s happening near you.

    Why Visit Craft Fairs?

    Craft fairs offer a unique shopping experience and the chance to:

    • Support Local Artisans: Buying from craft fairs helps support independent artists and small businesses, allowing them to continue doing what they love.
    • Find One-of-a-Kind Items: Craft fairs are the perfect place to discover unique, handmade goods. Whether you’re looking for home decor, art pieces, or personalised gifts, you’ll find plenty of options.
    • Get Inspired: Craft fairs can be a great source of inspiration for your own creative projects. You might discover new techniques, materials, or ideas to try.

    Finding Craft Fairs Near You This Weekend

    If you’re looking for craft fairs in your area, there are a few ways to find events happening this weekend:

    1. Event-brite is a popular platform where many local organisers post their craft fairs and markets. You can simply search for “craft fairs near me” and filter by date to find what’s happening near you. Explore Craft Events on Eventbrite
    2. Craft in Focus is an established organization in the UK that runs high-quality contemporary craft fairs throughout the year. They provide detailed schedules of upcoming events, so you can easily plan your visit. Check Craft in Focus Events
    3. British Craft Trade Fair offers information on some of the largest and most popular craft fairs across the UK. These fairs often feature hundreds of talented artisans and provide a broad range of handmade products. View British Craft Trade Fair

    Craft Fairs in the UK: A Look at Popular Events

    1. Living Crafts at Hatfield House

    One of the UK’s largest craft fairs, Living Crafts is held annually at Hatfield House. It attracts thousands of visitors with its array of contemporary and traditional crafts. Here, you’ll find pottery, textiles, jewellery, glassware, and so much more.

    • Event Information: Usually held in May
    • Location: Hatfield, Hertfordshire
    • More Details Here

    2. The Great British Craft Festival

    Held at different locations throughout the UK, this festival offers workshops, demonstrations, and plenty of shopping opportunities. It’s ideal for craft lovers looking to learn and shop at the same time.

    • Event Information: Typically held in August and November
    • Locations: Midlands and Bolton
    • View Festival Schedule

    3. Country Living Spring and Christmas Fairs

    If you’re looking for a charming, seasonal experience, the Country Living Fairs are a must-visit. They are held in London, Harrogate, and Glasgow during the spring and the lead-up to Christmas, featuring beautiful homeware, fashion, gifts, and food.

    Finding Craft Fairs Near You Today

    If you’re on the lookout for something to do today, here are some quick tips to help you find a craft fair happening right now:

    1. Local Facebook Groups: Many community groups and event pages on Facebook regularly post about local craft fairs. Try searching for “Craft Fairs Near Me” to find groups and events in your area.
    2. Local Council Websites: Often, your local council’s website will have an “Events” section where you can find listings of nearby craft fairs, markets, and festivals happening that day.
    3. Craft Finder Websites: Websites like Stallfinder provide a directory of craft fairs, markets, and shows across the UK. You can search by location and date to see what’s on today.

    How to Make the Most of Your Visit

    Visiting a craft fair can be an enjoyable and enriching experience. Here are some tips to make the most of your trip:

    • Arrive Early: Craft fairs often draw crowds, and arriving early gives you the chance to explore without feeling rushed.
    • Bring Cash: While many vendors accept card payments, it’s always good to have some cash on hand, especially at smaller fairs.
    • Talk to the Artisans: Take the time to chat with the sellers. They are often passionate about their work and happy to share their stories or crafting tips.
    • Keep an Open Mind: Craft fairs are great for finding unexpected treasures, so keep an open mind and explore all stalls!

    Final Thoughts

    Craft fairs offer a unique blend of creativity, community, and discovery. Whether you’re searching for craft fairs near me this weekend, looking for a craft fair in the UK, or simply want to find something nearby today, there are countless events where you can explore and connect with local artisans.

    Check out platforms like Eventbrite, Craft in Focus, and Stallfinder to find upcoming events near you, and plan your weekend visit to support small businesses and enjoy a day of creativity and inspiration.

    Have you been to a great craft fair recently? Share your experiences and favourite finds in the comments!

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  • Make Your Own Personalised Tote Bags

    Tote bags are not only practical and eco-friendly, but they’re also a blank canvas for self-expression. Whether you want to design a personalised shopper bag, make your own tote, or customise a personalised tote bag as a gift, there are many options available to help you craft something unique. With personalised touches, these tote bags can reflect your style, brand, or message.

    Here’s a guide to the best companies offering kits and services to help you make your own tote or create custom personalised tote bags.

    1. Bags of Love: Personalised Shopper Bags

    Bags of Love is a popular choice for creating high-quality personalised shopper bags. Their easy-to-use online design tool allows you to add your own photos, artwork, or text to a wide variety of tote styles. Whether you’re looking for a stylish everyday bag or a unique gift, Bags of Love makes it easy to design and order custom totes.

    Create your own: Bags of Love Tote Bags

    2. Hobbycraft: Make Your Own Tote Kits

    If you prefer a DIY approach, Hobbycraft offers fantastic make your own tote kits. These kits include plain cotton totes, fabric markers, stencils, and other tools that let you create a completely custom design from scratch. Perfect for a fun craft day or as a gift-making project, Hobbycraft’s kits are easy to use and allow for unlimited creativity.

    Check out their tote kits: Hobbycraft Tote Bag Kits

    3. Vistaprint: Personalised Tote Bags

    Vistaprint provides a range of personalised tote bags that can be customised with logos, images, or text. Their design platform makes it simple to create branded tote bags for businesses, events, or personal use. You can choose from a variety of tote styles and sizes, making it easy to design something that fits your needs.

    Design your tote here: Vistaprint Personalised Totes

    4. Etsy: Custom Personalised Totes

    Etsy is a great place to find handmade personalised tote bags. Many independent sellers offer custom options where you can add names, initials, or designs to a tote bag. Whether you’re looking for something chic or playful, Etsy has a wide variety of options, perfect for personal gifts or stylish everyday use.

    Explore their options: Etsy Personalised Tote Bags

    5. Contrado: Design Your Own Tote Bag

    For a professional and creative touch, Contrado lets you design your own tote bag from scratch. Their platform offers a variety of templates, allowing you to upload custom artwork, patterns, or text to create a truly unique bag. Whether you’re a designer or simply want a one-of-a-kind tote, Contrado offers high-quality printing and materials.

    Start designing: Contrado Custom Tote Bags

    Why Make Your Own Tote Bag?

    Creating your own personalised shopper bag or custom tote comes with plenty of benefits:

    • Eco-friendly: Reusable tote bags reduce the need for plastic bags, making them an environmentally friendly option.
    • Creative expression: Personalised and DIY tote bags allow you to express your individuality through design, patterns, and colours.
    • Great for gifts: Personalised tote bags make thoughtful gifts for friends, family, or even corporate clients.
    • Perfect for events or businesses: Custom totes with logos or branding are ideal for businesses, events, or promotions.
    • Fun DIY activity: Making your own tote can be a fun and rewarding project, whether for yourself or as a group activity.

    Conclusion

    Whether you’re looking to design a personalised shopper bag, craft your own tote from scratch, or create branded totes for a business, there are endless possibilities for customisation. Companies like Bags of Love, Vistaprint, and Hobbycraft offer a wide range of services and kits to help you create a unique, stylish tote bag.

    Ready to make your own tote? Explore these top companies and start creating a custom, stylish, and functional tote bag today!

    Looking for a creative project or the perfect gift? Check out these services and kits to create your own personalised tote bags and show off your unique style!

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  • 12 Sustainable Christmas Ideas

    Victorian Christmas traditions were all about creativity, charm, and making the most of what you had. The Victorians embraced simple, thoughtful gifts that were also eco-friendly.

    From homemade decorations to reusable wrapping, these 12 sustainable Victorian Christmas ideas will help you add a touch of vintage charm to your modern celebrations.

    Traditional Sustainable Christmas Gifts

    Victorian Christmas traditions were steeped in practicality and sustainability, partly out of necessity and partly due to cultural values.

    Here are some examples of sustainable Victorian Christmas presents to try at home:

    1. Oranges in Stockings

    • Symbol of Luxury: Oranges were a rare and expensive treat for most Victorian families, especially in northern Europe. Receiving one in a stocking was a special indulgence, symbolising health and wealth.
    • Sustainable and Practical: The fruit was entirely edible, and the peels could be reused for fragrant potpourri or cleaning purposes.

    2. Reusable Wrapping

    Victorians often avoided disposable materials for wrapping gifts:

    • Fabric Wrapping: Presents were wrapped in fabric squares, often decorative scraps or embroidered cloth, which could be reused.
    • Decorative Boxes: Wooden or tin boxes were popular and durable, used to store small treasures after the gift-giving.
    • Paper and Ribbons: Wrapping paper was used sparingly, often saved and reused year after year.

    Video: Sew your own reusable gift wrap in 16 minutes!

    3. Practical and Homemade Gifts

    Victorians emphasised practicality and thoughtfulness in their gifting:

    • Knitted or Crocheted Items: Warm socks, scarves, or mittens were often made at home using leftover yarn.
    • Hand-Sewn Dolls or Stuffed Animals: Crafted from fabric scraps.
    • Homemade Toys: Wooden trains, spinning tops, or simple puzzles.

    4. Edible Gifts

    Food was a popular and sustainable gift choice:

    • Preserves and Jams: Stored in reusable glass jars, these were treasured gifts.
    • Homemade Biscuits or Cakes: Packaged in cloth or tin containers.
    • Candied Nuts and Fruits: Wrapped in paper cones or reusable cloth bags.

    5. Nature-Inspired Gifts

    Victorians loved incorporating natural elements into their celebrations:

    • Potted Plants: Ferns, ivy, or small evergreen trees were given as lasting gifts.
    • Dried Flower Bouquets: Carefully arranged and tied with reusable ribbons.
    • Handmade Wreaths: Made from holly, ivy, and pinecones, often embellished with reused scraps of ribbon.

    Video: DIY Christmas fabric rag wreath

    6. Secondhand or Repurposed Items

    The concept of up-cycling was common:

    • Books: Often passed down through generations or given as secondhand treasures.
    • Jewellery: Reworked or repaired heirloom pieces were cherished gifts.
    • Clothing: Repaired, tailored, or adorned garments were practical and heartfelt presents.

    7. Shared Experiences

    Experiential gifts were also part of Victorian Christmas traditions:

    • Christmas Feasts: Sharing a special meal was a gift in itself, with families pooling resources.
    • Music and Carols: Homemade instruments or sheet music were given to encourage family gatherings and shared entertainment.

    Video: Make Reusable Crackers for the perfect Christmas feast

    8. Handwritten Letters or Poems

    • Personal and Sentimental: In the Victorian era, written word was a cherished form of communication. Handwritten letters, poems, or short stories were given as gifts.
    • Low Waste: These gifts had minimal environmental impact and were deeply personal, often becoming treasured keepsakes.

    9. Homemade Scented Sachets

    • Natural and Fragrant: Sachets filled with dried lavender, rose petals, or cloves were a common Victorian gift. These were often sewn into small fabric pouches and used to scent drawers or wardrobes.
    • Sustainable Materials: The materials, including fabric scraps and dried flowers, were often locally sourced and reusable.

    Video: Let’s make lavender bags

    10. Hand-Painted or Carved Items

    • Artisanal Creations: Items such as wooden boxes, trays, or small decorative objects were often hand-painted or carved, reflecting the Arts and Crafts movement of the time.
    • Durable and Timeless: These gifts were made to last, with the added benefit of being completely unique, often incorporating natural materials like wood or clay.

    11. Family Heirlooms or Vintage Items

    • Passing Down Traditions: Victorian families often gave family heirlooms as Christmas presents, such as antique jewellery, old pocket watches, or hand-me-down clothing. These items carried sentimental value and were a way to pass on memories and traditions.
    • Eco-Friendly by Nature: Since these items were often long-lasting and repurposed, they had little environmental impact.

    12. Handmade Candles

    • Practical and Decorative: Making candles at home from tallow (animal fat) or beeswax was a common practice. These candles were not only practical for lighting but also used as decorations or in Christmas wreaths.
    • Sustainable and Reusable: Candles were crafted with care, and many could be repurposed or reused, with the beeswax being particularly durable and eco-friendly.

    Video: DIY Thrifted Teacup Candle

    These ideas show how the Victorians made use of handmade, practical, and often nature-inspired gifts, reflecting a sustainable approach of being resourceful and wasting less.

    Sustainability in Victorian Celebrations

    Victorian-era gifting reflects many values of modern sustainable practices: minimal waste, resourcefulness, and meaningful, personal connections. These traditions remind us that thoughtfulness often outshines extravagance during the holiday season.

    Reusable Gift Wrap Project

    Get into the holiday spirit with this fun and simple DIY Christmas gift wrap project! Using traditional patterned fabric, you can create a charming and unique reusable gift bag.

    To make your own Christmas gift bag see: Reusable Fabric Gift Bag

    These Christmas Fat Quarters are available on Amazon. Fabrics with traditional Christmas patterns, perfect for making your own Christmas stocking.

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  • Create Your Own Stylish Tote Bags: Personalised

    Looking for a creative and eco-friendly way to express your style? Designing and making your own tote bags is a fun and practical project that lets you showcase your personality. Whether you want to design a tote, create a personalised gift, or make your own tote, there are plenty of resources and kits available to help you get started. Plus, personalised tote bags make excellent gifts, perfect for any occasion.

    Here’s a guide to some of the best companies offering tote bag projects and resources to help you make your own tote with ease.

    1. Bags of Love: Personalised Tote Bags

    Bags of Love specialises in high-quality personalised tote bags, allowing you to add your own photos, designs, or artwork to create a one-of-a-kind bag. Their online design tool is easy to use, making it simple to customise your tote with patterns, text, and images. Whether you’re designing a tote for yourself or as a gift, you can create a practical and stylish bag that stands out.

    Design your tote: Bags of Love Tote Bags

    2. Hobbycraft: DIY Tote Kits

    Hobbycraft offers a fantastic range of make your own tote kits, perfect for crafters of all levels. These DIY kits include plain cotton totes, fabric markers, stencils, and other accessories to help you design and decorate your own tote bag. Ideal for personal use or as a fun family craft activity, Hobbycraft provides everything you need to get creative.

    Check out their tote kits: Hobbycraft Tote Bag Kits

    3. Etsy: Custom and DIY Tote Kits

    For those looking for handmade or customisable tote bags, Etsy has a huge selection of options. From personalised tote bags with names or initials to DIY kits that let you design your own tote, Etsy’s sellers offer unique and high-quality products. Whether you’re looking for a tote to decorate yourself or a personalised gift, Etsy has something for everyone.

    Explore their collection: Etsy Tote Bags

    4. Contrado: Custom Printed Totes

    Contrado offers fully customisable design your own tote services, allowing you to upload your own artwork or choose from their artist designs. You can select the bag style, fabric, and colours, creating a truly unique tote that matches your personal style. Contrado’s high-quality printing ensures your design looks sharp and vibrant, making these bags both stylish and durable.

    Create your tote: Contrado Custom Tote Bags

    5. Vista print: Personalised Tote Bags

    For a more professional approach to customisation, Vista print offers a wide range of personalised tote bags for both personal and business use. You can add your logo, custom artwork, or text to create a tote bag that represents your brand or style. Vista print’s easy-to-use design platform makes it simple to upload your designs and choose from a variety of bag styles and sizes.

    Design yours here: Vista print Tote Bags

    Why Design Your Own Tote Bag?

    Creating a personalised tote bag comes with plenty of benefits:

    • Eco-friendly: Tote bags are a great alternative to plastic bags, making them a sustainable choice for shopping or daily use.
    • Express your style: Whether you’re adding your own artwork or choosing from pre-made designs, tote bags are a canvas for self-expression.
    • Great gifts: Personalised tote bags make thoughtful and practical gifts for friends and family, especially when tailored to their interests.
    • Easy to make: With DIY kits and customisation services, making your own tote is a simple and fun project that requires minimal materials.

    Conclusion

    Designing and making your own tote bag is an enjoyable way to express your creativity while crafting something useful. Whether you’re looking for a DIY tote kit or a personalised tote bag service, companies like Bags of Love, Hobbycraft, and Vista print offer great options to bring your ideas to life.

    Ready to create your own tote? Explore these resources and start designing a tote that’s as unique as you are!

    Looking for a fun and stylish project? Make your own tote or choose a personalised tote bag from these top companies and start showing off your creativity today!

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