Gifts for... Her

Lazy Giraffe

One of a kind earrings for your one of a kind girl...

Yunisacs

Beautiful bags and purses for all occasions

TwinglySpangle

Colourful adornment for the young at heart

Poor Robin

Felt and Button fun for all colour addicts!

Jezebelle's Boutique

Tattoed Pyjamas

Meet the Maker - Laura Watton

Tell us a little bit about you.

My name is Laura, I am 30 and live in Cambridge. I have lived in Cambridge for almost five years and feel very much at home here. I am very happy to be part of Handmade for their December show!

Have you always been crafty, or is it something that you've picked up more recently?

I have sewn for many years, and have drawn for as long as I can remember. An illustrator at heart, I like sewing and stitching mainly as a hobby, and for some of my products at Handmade i have been able to combine the two. Randomly, I do believe that my childhood interest in cross stitch led me onto my current career in online gaming as a pixel artist.

Have you been particularly influenced by any other artists or events?

I've read comics from Japan since my teens, but have always been interested in bold and bright comic book artwork, illustration and animation. I like Lowbrow art as much as my woodblock prints, so I have combined all my influences when making badges, canvas paintings, greetings cards, comics and bags to sell.

What other artists are you excited about seeing at Handm@de Cambridge?

Peeko Crochet looks super-cute, I squealed out loud when I saw the name of their little snail is "Monsieur Slow". A bit embarassing for me, but hey. And Trash Chic's aprons look like they are to die for!

What is your favourite piece?

I like the girls on my bags equally (so there is no fighting amongst the ranks!), though the girl who looks like she has been listening to too much Mötley Crüe is a possible contender for my favourite-throne!

Are there any specific pieces you fancy that will be at Handm@de Cambridge?

I really look forward to seeing what cute toys and jewellery there will be!

You can find out more about Laura and her work on her website http://www.pinkapplejam.co.uk/

Gifts for... Him

Corryvreckan

Timeless silver cufflinks inspired by the ubiquitous fish eye button.

Lilley

Cute but deadly ninja assistants

All Fired Up

A dash of colour with Dicronic glass cufflinks

QHere

Bold and practical bag for toting about the essentials; books, laptop, you name it!

PaintBox Crafts

Reversible bronze pendant

Gifts for... The Home

Turned and Twisted

Tactile turned wood bowls

Emerald Frames

Beautiful frames made from reclaimed wood.

EmmieLou Studios

Fun button based art work

Inkling Prints

Stunning handprinted linen placemats

TrashChic

Eye catching cushions

Meet the Maker - Katie Beeke

Tell us a little bit about you.

I'm Katie, I'm 33, originally from Wales, I have lived in Cambridge for 11 years, i live in a busy neighbourhood with my husband, 2 kids, 2 cats and 3 chickens.

Have you always been crafty, or is it something that you've picked up more recently?

I studied fashion at uni but ended up working happily as a graphic designer for years, however I craved something creative that didn't involve a computer screen. I have always loved fabric and have a large stash after years of foraging in charity/vintage shops so thought I'd better get to work and make use of it! I love escaping to my sewing room and creating away, it reminds me of spending hours in my bedroom as a child, drawing and making.

Have you been particularly influenced by any other artists or events?

I am constantly inspired and impressed by the huge online presence of women with such full, busy lives but still managing to remain creative and crafty. I love the Australian online community of crafters and their vibe. I also love all things Scandinavian from folklore art and textiles to modern stuff. One of my biggest influences is also my kids, their drawings and imagination and their response to my work is always spot on!

What other artists are you excited about seeing at Handm@de Cambridge?

Inkling Prints textiles look right up my street, the prints look really fresh so I'll look forward to seeing them in the flesh. Poor Robin's colourful buttons are beautiful too.

What is your favourite piece?

Probably my collection of owls, they are all different but each has the softest organic cotton fleece back, very tactile. Also my patchwork christmas stockings, very festive without being too twee!

Are there any specific pieces you fancy that will be at Handm@de Cambridge?

I'm craving The Print Tree's purses -gorgeous colours and fabric choices.

Gifts for... The little Ones

A selection of delightful gifts for children, from tiny new arrivals to energetic toddlers!

Lula Handmade

Soft, friendly creatures to brighten up a book shelf.

Lotte Mai

Children's gifts and Clothing

BibBibs

Designer bibs for new diners and experienced messers.

Mamma-K

Waldorf inspired dolls

Handmade Treasures

Crocheted Hats for little ones

Fiona Carver

Beautiful art for the nursery.

Fabric Friends

Unusual fabric animals and other creatures

Nat's Nest

Adorable mice just calling out for a hug!

Well Done Oxford!

As you might know, Handm@de Oxford was held yesterday in the amazing large hall at the town hall. The weather may have been pretty terrible but it was great to catch up with people and meet with the stall holders who will be at Handm@de Cambridge this Saturday.

Meet the Maker - Bethany Kelman

Tell us a little bit about you.

My name is Bethany Kelman, I am 27 years old and I live in Cambridge. I love vintage glamour, but I often found it hard to find vintage pieces that fit well so I started making my own dresses from vintage patterns. People liked them and often asked me where they could buy them, so I decided to start making dresses for sale & Jezebelles Boutique was born! I now make bags and accessories as well as clothing.

Have you always been crafty, or is it something that you've picked up more recently?

I come from an artistic background as my Mum is very crafty - she worked as a dressmaker when I was little and is now a jewellery maker, so I was encouraged to be artistic from an early age and art was always my favourite subject. I studied Fine Art at University & spent most of my time making sculptural dresses from unusual materials. After graduation I decided to embrace my inner seamstress!

Have you been particularly influenced by any other artists or events?

All sorts of things inspire me and influence my work, including 1950s style, burlesque, the punk rock & psychobilly music scene, Vivienne Westwood and Japanese street style.

What other artists are you excited about seeing at Handm@de Cambridge?

I am really looking forward to seeing all the other exhibitors work as there's such a diverse range of artists. I am especially excited about sharing a table with PinkAppleJam!

What is your favourite piece?

I am most excited about the new 1950s style evening bags I'm making in a range of different colours and fabrics. I'm also working on some vintage style pyjama sets which I think will make nice Christmas gifts. http://www.jezebellesboutique.co.uk/pyjamas.htm

Are there any specific pieces you fancy that will be at Handm@de Cambridge?

I had the pleasure of seeing PinkAppleJam creating some tote bags with hand-drawn characters on them and I already have my eye on one of them in particular! http://pics.livejournal.com/pinkapplejam/pic/002p6rdf I am also very keen on Trash Chic's aprons! http://www.trashchic.co.uk/apronfull.htm And these Little Button Nose Notelets: http://www.littlebuttonnose.co.uk/notelets.html & all of Yunisacs purses! http://www.etsy.com/shop/yunisacs

Find out more about Bethany and her work at her website: http://www.jezebellesboutique.co.uk

Meet the Maker - Cat Hylton

This week we talk to Cat Hylton...

Tell us a little bit about you.

Hi I'm Cat, I'm from Norfolk . I'm currently a mature student re-taking some A Levels before going back to university to study veterinary medicine. I will be exhibiting my polymer clay creations and handmade goats' milk soaps.

Have you always been crafty, or is it something that you've picked up more recently?

My mother, who will be exhibiting alongside me, instilled me with her crafting spirit. So crafting is something I've always been into. I've had a go at everything from dress making to lino printing and back again. I'm also a keen photographer, who exhibits work as regularly as possible.

Have you been particularly influenced by any other artists or events?

My mother and grandmother are my main influences, both taught me, encouraged me and supported me in all my crafty exploits. A lot of my clay work is inspired by Christi Friesen.

What other artists are you excited about seeing at Handm@de Cambridge?

I'm a big fan of turned wood - I love the way it feels so I'm pretty excited about seeing Louise and Robert of 'Turned and Twisted'. I'm loving the quirky creations of Fabric Friends - I think one of those might have to come home with me! Hodge Podge Arts has some amazing, unique pieces, which are certainly worth a look. Little Molly the Lamb might just be the cutest thing I've ever seen - I'm a big lamb fan having spent a faie bit of time lambing.

What is your favourite piece?

Probably my little steampunk hedgepig. There will be a variety of steampunk animals available.

Are there any specific pieces you fancy that will be at Handm@de Cambridge?

I think there's likely to be a bit of a fight over those adorable mice by Nat's Nest - everybody seems to love them! I want a GlowBox Lantern for Christmas too!

Meet the Maker - Gemma with a G

This week we meet Gemma of Gemma with a G

Tell us a little bit about you.

I'm Gemma Hadley, I'm 26 years old and I live in a beautiful little cottage in Hitchin, Hertfordshire.

Have you always been crafty, or is it something that you've picked up more recently?

For as long as I can remember I've always had some sort of crafty project on the go. I trained as a graphic designer and while I love computers, there's nothing quite as satisfying as sitting down with some paper, glue and a craft knife and seeing what you can create with your hands.

Have you been particularly influenced by any other artists or events?

I've always been hugely influenced by nature and colour. I also love rummaging through local markets and car boots and am often inspired by the unusual papers and treasures I find.

What other artists are you excited about seeing at Handm@de Cambridge?

So many! I keep on noticing a new exhibitor I didn't see at first and am hugely looking forward to seeing them all! To name a couple though, Bread of Many's illustrations are beautiful and I love the look of Emma Passey's ceramics. I'm a huge teacup fan!

What is your favourite piece?

My butterfly cards were my first design so they'll always be special to me because of that. They take a while to cut out but they look lovely sat on a mantelpiece. They're one of my more detailed cards and people usually react very positively towards them which is a great feeling :) I'm also very busy working on some Christmas designs at the moment!

Are there any specific pieces you fancy that will be at Handm@de Cambridge?

The Print Tree's blossom print clutches look beautiful, I'm a huge fan of Japanese style prints and am definitely looking forward to seeing them!

Seller Selections

1. All Fired Up - http://www.all-fired-up.co.uk/

2. AmazonCat - http://amazoncat.etsy.com/

3. Averil Hyton - http://averil-hylton.deviantart.com/

Seller Selections

1. Peeko Crochet - http://www.peekocrochet.com/shop/

2. Snapdragon Beads - http://www.snapdragonbeads.com/

3. QHere - http://www.qhere.net/

Meet the Maker - Trash Chic

This week we meet Sandra and Jane, the dynamic duo behind Trash Chic

Tell us a little bit about you.

SANDRA: Jane and I met nearly six years ago and quickly identified a joint interest in clothes, crafts, art. But it was relatively recently that we decided to take it a step further and form Trash Chic. The idea is that we take remnants, left-overs, broken jewellery, abandoned wool and all kinds of other discarded materials and turn them into aprons, bo chos (bohemian style chokers), bookmarks, cushions and scarves. It's a great stressbusting hobby for us. By profession, I'm a writer and editor

JANE: ... And I'm a web designer.

Have you always been crafty, or is it something that you've picked up more recently?

SANDRA: My mum taught me to knit and sew when I was very, very young. Then I picked up crochet, tatting, embroidery, patchwork, and, as I got older, bead jewellery making and bookmarks. I've always shopped in charity shops and jumble sales, then adapted my purchases. So, yes, it's certainly something I've always had an interest in.

JANE: I started designing and making my own clothes at a very young age and I recall some of my more unusual outfits bringing a smile to the faces of family and friends. In the 80s I sold clothes at Camden Lock and Greenwich Market. I also launched a range of funky outsize clothing which was pretty revolutionary at the time.

Have you been particularly influenced by any other artists or events?

SANDRA: Style and accessory wise, you can't beat a bit of Coco. In terms of artists, Cambridge has an abundance of really amazing talent. Personally, I prefer something clean, natural and in calming tones. The pieces I choose for myself definitely help me to relax and connect with nature or the sea.

JANE: My biggest influence is Vivienne Westwood. I also love Steampunk, anything gothic and Amy Winehouse’s hair. If I was a man I would be a dandy, sport colourful cravats and carry a walking cane.

What other artists are you excited about seeing at Handm@de Cambridge?

SANDRA: Well, it's always great to see Ruth Schmid, QHere bags. We both have several of her bags. But, to be honest, it's exciting just being among all kinds of other creatives and seeing what they make. It's tempting to spend the day buying their things rather than selling ours!!

JANE: I visited Handm@de last year and was completely blown away with the talent. I am sure I’ll be purchasing as well as selling this year.

What is your favourite piece?

SANDRA: Easy: Jane's full-length and half aprons. They really are fabulous, and definitely add a different dimension to being in the kitchen!

JANE: Sandra’s SECRETS bookmark. Roses, hearts and a dash of passion ... a tale of lasting love.

Are there any specific pieces you fancy that will be at Handm@de Cambridge?

SANDRA: I love jewellery. I'm always on the lookout for really unusual chunky earrings and pendants.

JANE: Can’t resist paper, tags and boxes!

You can find out more about Trash Chic on their website http://www.trashchic.co.uk

Meet the Maker - Kiran Ravilious

This week our featured seller is Kiran of Inkling Prints

Tell us a little bit about you.

I'm Kiran. I'm from Singapore. I moved to England 5 years ago. I now live in Leicester with my husband Ben, our two year old daughter Jill and my seven months old border terrier puppy Daisy.

Have you always been crafty, or is it something that you've picked up more recently?

I've always liked art. I trained as a graphic designer. I've always enjoyed illustrating and painting. I was inspired to get into printmaking when I met my husband whose grandparents were both printmakers. It was only recently though, that I started printing on fabric.

Have you been particularly influenced by any other artists or events?

I think I am influenced by nature and things I see all the time. I love botanical illustrations and the works of artist Alois Auer. I also find folk art very inspiring.

What other artists are you excited about seeing at Handm@de Cambridge?

I'm excited about seeing Yunisacs and also The Print Tree. Looking forward to popping round and getting myself a lovely purse or two!

What is your favourite piece?

My favourite piece has to be my napkins. I've printed 4 different designs to be sold as a set of 4. I like them because I think they are colouful and fun!

Are there any specific pieces you fancy that will be at Handm@de Cambridge?

I'm interested in Trash Chic's cushions And also Bread of Many I love the style of illustration!

You can follow Kiran and her work on her blog http://blog.inklingprints.co.uk/

Seller Selections

Another trio of beautiful items from the sellers who will be at Handm@de Cambridge on December 5th.

1. Bread of Many - http://breadofmany.etsy.com

2. Hodge Podge Arts - http://hodgepodgearts.co.uk

3. Inkling Prints - http://blog.inklingprints.co.uk

Handmade Cambridge Supporting EACH

Besides supporting designer makers, some of whom who are taking their first steps into craft fairs with us, each Handm@de Craft Fairs fair reserves a free table for a local charity so that they can raise their profile. We are very pleased that at that the East Anglia's Children's Hospices will be attending the December show.

EACH provides care and support for life-threatened children and their families in their own homes, as well as at the charity’s hospices based at Milton in Cambridgeshire, Ipswich in Suffolk, which also serves North Essex and Quidenham in Norfolk.

EACH aim to maximise the quality of life for children with life-threatening conditions and complex healthcare needs, and to support their families.

Some children may only have a short time to live, perhaps only weeks or months, others may reach early adulthood but EACH’s aim is always the same – to enhance their quality of life and support their family.

EACH delivers a full range of children’s hospice care services which includes: care at end of life, short break care, specialist play, music therapy, practical help and advice and bereavement support.

EACH provides supportive care to families before and after the death of their child. This helps all members of the family, including siblings and grandparents.

This year it is anticipated that it will cost around £5.8 million to run all three hospice services - approximately 72% of this is required from voluntary donations.

For further information about EACH please visit the website www.each.org.uk.

Meet the Maker - Emma Passey

This week our featured seller is Emma Passey

Tell us a little bit about you.

I'm Emma Passey a 25 year old Ceramic Designer /Maker.

My ceramic studio is based in Newport South Wales, I was once asked to particapte in the auditions for the BBC's Dragons Den show, I didnt think I could pitch for bags of clay and glaze somehow.

Have you always been crafty, or is it something that you've picked up more recently?

I've never thought of myself as always being creative, I certainly took a more designer maker approach during and after University. But sometimes looking back at my school years I guess I was. I remember in one DT class we had to produce an insect, I produced a stuffed Woodlice, while the other girls made pretty insects, it was certainly thinking outside the box although slightly strange.

Have you been particularly influenced by any other artists or events?

This is something which constantly changes, at the moment Im looking at Leeds Pottery old drawing sheets and tranfers from the victorian era. In terms of artists Im particulary interested in the ceramic designer Maxium Velcosky, he produces fun high quality ceramic items which often have a story behind them.

What other artists are you excited about seeing at Handm@de Cambridge?

Corryvreckan's Button cufflinks particulary caught my eye, I'm looking forward to seeing that stand.

What is your favourite piece?

At the moment Ive been working on some flocked work called 100% Flocked, reusing old ceramic ornaments and plates which otherwise would be discarded and applying brightly coloured flocks too.

Check out Emma's beautiful and unusual work ahead of the show at her website http://www.emmapasseydesign.co.uk