Handmade with love

This week I have been surrounded by wonderful crafts and gorgeous people. I have only recently learnt how to crochet, starting with just basic granny squares, but I adore beanies so early this week I started to play. Playing with wool, playing with colours. Life was good.

I started making a baby’s beanie in an array of bright colours. I love colour. I taught myself how to do a scalloped edge and I’m pretty happy with how it turned out. I then set out making a watermelon hat. I was amazed by how quickly crocheting can create wonderful little items. I think I may be hooked, pun intended. With uni and life getting in the way, it was nice to get back to crafting and to create something.

For me this week has been a truly crafty week, even while working. Everywhere I turn I am surrounded by beautiful things being handmade with love. This just makes me so happy.

At Encompass, a youth service for people with a disability, I am based in the textiles room. It is bliss. We have made quilts, bags, dresses and recently learnt cross stitch but our current project is just so fun. We are making stuffed toys which they are going to donate to the children at Geelong Hospital. With many of the clients having spent a lot of time at hospital themselves, making these toys is such a special project. From spotty dinosaurs, kooky aliens and green horses there are some truly gorgeous, colourful toys being made. I love my job.

Then on Friday I was asked to look after a friend’s delightful little shop. Frank & Dolly's is a sweet little shop where each piece has been lovingly handmade and holds a soulful story. 

I was very happy to sit in amongst the handcrafted, fair-trade pretties while working away on my own craft. What a wonderful day.

Now my fingers are itching to finish off a present for my little nephew. I can safely say my crafty bug is back and I am loving it.