Neon Knit Beanie Pattern

Here's a quick knit project to brighten up a wintery weekend... 

Rose Tattoo Embroidery

You can get the instructions for my Rockabilly-inspired rose tattoo embroidered 

denim shirt in Mollie Makes Magazine Issue 36!

Great British Makers Competition

Exciting news! I'm part of the Great British Makers Competition being run by Seek and Adore. If you're feeling especially lovely you can vote for me, Leanne Garrity, here and don't forget to check out all the clever British designer-makers also in the running. To vote, all you need to do is follow the link above and click the Facebook 'like' button in my listing. Thank you! xx

Some recent features!

Crazy-Cushion-Cover-Commission-Completed! CHUFFED!

Phew! They look like an innocent stack but these babies have really put me to the test over the last couple of weeks. In amongst the regular work routine, I've been washing and drying and ironing and taping and painting and painting and fanning and ironing and sewing and ironing again, over and over and over.

Creative Block

Cool! Check out my feature spot on the topic of creative block in this month's issue of Craftseller Magazine :o)

Hot-steppin'

My sister is preggers, big time. Whilst eagerly awaiting the now-fashionably-late little miss, she has not allowed herself to grow idle. She's used the opportunity to really get her craft on, with some impressive results.

Sad Happiness?

Is it really sad that the highlight of my day was receiving a package of fabrics in the mail? I was so happy I thanked the postman profusely, to which he replied, "Lady, it's what I'm paid for".

iMake Interview

A very big thanks to Martine from iMake for featuring me on her lovely blog :o) Martine is very crafty Guernsey gal and her blog really is a treasure trove of all things handmade and craft related, including photography and cookery as well! So go over and check it out! You can read the full Chi Chi Dee Handmade interview here.

Bye-e! Love Leanne xx

Monday Makes: Kindle Cover

Hello Monday! Today's post is especially for the lovely Lauren, my Crafternoon pal, who has just got herself a new Kindle and needs some inspiration for a cover. Hope this helps :o)

Monday Makes: Decoupage Chairs

Ok, I know I'm doing a 'Monday Make' on a Friday, but it's been a busy week! I've been in Stuttgart attending an author's workshop for my other job as a writer (I know - so adult!) but I've since returned and, having caught up on all my orders, now have a chance to type up this post, propped up in bed surrounded by assorted German chocolates and Hasselnusswaffeln crumbs. Yum.

My Top Tips For Selling Your Knitting

Moss Stich Knit Cowl

I was recently contacted by a writer for a knitting magazine asking me if I had any top tips for people who are thinking of starting to sell their knitting, either to raise money for charity or just to make a bit of extra cash to help out during those lean times. It turns out I have learnt a thing or two about selling my handmade goodies over the years (mostly through trial and error)! So I thought I would share my ideas here too :o)

New Fabrics!!!

Red with Fat White Polka Dot

I'm very exited about the new fabrics I have in stock! I ordered them online from Tissue Fabrics.

They do free UK delivery for orders over £50 and I'm really happy with everything I ordered from them :o) 

Spring has Sprung!

Spring has sprung and I have been sitting in my sun-drenched craft room over the weekend bathing in the warmth and fragrance of 1kg's worth of Yorkshire-grown dried lavender from Lavenderworld and making a ridiculous amount of lavender pouches. Here are a few to give you the idea:

Baby Booties

I'm going to be an Aunty soon and ever since I found out, I haven't been able to stop making adorable little baby booties. I was at it again yesterday, this time with some new fabrics that remind me of French kitchens in the summertime.

How to: Taped Screenprints

Learn how to create bold, geometric prints on fabric which can then be turned into cushion covers, tote bags, or stapled to wooden frames to be displayed as artwork. This simple technique uses everyday sellotape to mask off areas and (despite the title!) doesn't involve a screen at all. 

How to: Make an Upcycled T-Shirt Bag

Learn how to recycled boring old t shirts that you never wear anymore into a funky new bag you won't be able to put down!