Do what you love...

So, what’s new this month?!

Well, I have some Sashiko sample kits which are proving to be popular and selling fast. There are also some pre-printed Christmas cross-stitch table runners, counted cross stitch mini Christmas bags and some Christmas felt patterns - definitely a theme here don't you think!? I’ve got more Debbie Bliss wool in stock so there are now over 12 colours to choose from. Following a customer request, I sourced and now have more children's fabrics in stock, including some fantastic spaceship and rocket themed material that glows in the dark. I’ve topped up some of the other fabric lines with a wider selection of colours, so you should now be able to find just the right shade! The Christmas Scandi is selling well and has actually taken a bit of a hit in the last couple of weeks. I’ve tried to get more but unfortunately they are already sold out. This is a rookie error on my part, I didn't know how much to order at the time and thought I had ordered plenty. This is all a learning curve, and I will know for next time!

I had a lovely visit from the representative from Lewis and Irene last week. She hadn't been able to visit me when I initially applied to open an account due to the Covid-19 restrictions, so it was great to meet her and discuss my future plans. She was really impressed with the setup of the workshop and gave me some great advice, tips and ideas - watch this space! The Lewis and Irene fabric is beautiful and has been selling well, so I was absolutely delighted to be accepted as a recognised stockist of their fabrics. I have submitted orders for the next 6 months, so it is exciting to know that you will have new fabric lines to choose from every month.

Last month, I told you I was working with Linda Thomson from ‘Feltology’. I am delighted to say her needle felting kits are now available to purchase here on the website, with prices starting at just £16. For this, you get everything you need to create your own little creature or character - felt, needles and instructions and patterns. She has also kindly created a needle felting kit exclusively for The Wonky Giraffe; this is a sheep landscape scene and is just beautiful! As with the other kits, you will receive everything you need to make the landscape within the kit. It will be ‘officially’ announced shortly and will be available on the website too; it is priced at £24.00.

In addition to working with Linda, I am thrilled to announce I am working with Lara Armitage from At Birkhill House. At Birkhill House is an animal assisted activity and therapy venture based in the Scottish Borders, whose focus is on wellness and mindfulness whilst encouraging compassion and creativity through a range of workshops and classes. There are adult, children and residential workshops on offer that provide opportunities to learn skills in everything from printing to creating felt necklaces to making bird feeders and willow plant supports. Obviously given the current situation there are some restrictions in place, but the classes and workshops take place in the renovated stables that date back to the early 1800s. You can find details of the classes and workshops, along with more about the venture, on the website: https://atbirkhillhouse.co.uk

So, how are Lara and The Wonky Giraffe working together, I hear you ask. The Wonky Giraffe is now a proud stockist of the wool taken from the Huacaya alpacas and Castlemilk Moorit sheep from At Birkhill House. Lara has the most beautiful selection of naturally coloured Aran, Double Knitting and 4ply wool available from her gorgeous Huacaya alpacas - Agatha, Hector, Pepper, Jessie, Stanley and Dolly - and Castlemilk Moorit Sheep. To meet the lovely alpacas and sheep that are now keeping the Wonky Giraffe company, head over to Instagram! Prices start at just £9.00.

Finally, just a small reminder that whilst we can't run any classes in the new Wonky Training Room, the room has the potential to be used at the moment by individuals, or groups who are within a designated 'bubble'. Perhaps you are looking for a safe, clean space to meet and have a cuppa whilst you sew and knit? Or maybe you need a space to set out and pin your quilts? You may just need some time out of the house! If this sounds like something you might be interested in then give me a call on 07551414821 or email me at louise@wonkygiraffe.co.uk to discuss further.

I look forward to seeing you all soon! Stay safe.

Louise x

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