Handmade Monday 97

Welcome to the last Handmade Monday before Christmas.  In fact, the last one of this year!  We'll be back on Sunday 6th January at 6pm.  I will be back here blogging before then, though!

It's not long till Christmas, and I hope most people out there are much more organised than I am.  I have given up trying to plan Christmas early - sometime after the last posting dates for first class mail* (20th this year) is early enough for me!  However, with four adult children (+ partners) and four grandchildren and with two of my children born in December (one on Christmas Day itself, poor child, and one today - happy birthday to my one and only son!) it is no mean feat.  Phew!  I'm exhausted just writing it all down!

Still, it happens every year without fail and I really should be used to it by now!

Craftseller issue 19 January

In other news, the latest issue of Craftseller magazine arrived this week - and I think my iPhone 5 cover looks pretty good (if I do say so myself).  I love the zingy mix of colours and patterns in this one ( I just adore the Summersville fabrics range for its freshness and uncomplicated style).

iPhone 5 cover

It's a handy phone pouch pattern, because it incorporates a wrist loop, a keyring, a clip for attaching to a belt or bag and a pocket for travel tickets and/or a credit card.  I've used buttons as fasteners, because part of my brief was to incorporate Craftseller's free buttons (they're a cover gift) but it could be made without buttons - Velcro would be quick and easy.

My lampshade project is in this issue too.  I'm less fond of this one, simply because the colour is just not my cup of tea.  But it proved to me how simple lampshade making actually is.  I'll definitely be having another go at this.  It's such a quick and easy way to liven up a space or add a cosy feel to a neglected corner.  One of the things I love about making is that even if you're not fond of what you make, you've learned something from doing it.

woodland lampshade

I did worry about the fire safety aspect of this project (paper and heat are not always a good mix - and my brief was using their free papers) but the fire safety advice is pretty prominent in the magazine.  I used a special lampshade backing from Needcraft which helps with making the lampshade safer.  Also,  today's light bulbs are cooler in use, making them safer.

fire safety advice

Right, for me it's back to the painting right now.  There's a lot to get through, and it's got to be done by Thursday at the latest for posting out.

I'll be in the studio if anyone wants to pop through with a cup of hot mint tea for me...

*if you're a regular reader of this blog, you'll know why the last posting date is significant enough to dictate my life - if you're new here: it's because I make personalised gifts to order and they all need posting out.  It doesn't take much imagination to appreciate that the run-up to Christmas is by far my busiest time of year for website sales.