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Crafting

Discuss knitting, crocheting, card-making, modelling and all types of crafts - with a MoneySaving twist.

flower arranging
Hi all. Recently my Nanna passed away so I bought some artificial flowers to make up a flower arrangement. It looks lovely but the flowers were a little pricey. I would like to do some more for other relatives that have passed. Does anyone know of any shops that do cheap nice looking artificial flowers or have any they no…
Janome 5000Q and online sewing machines
Hi I'm considering purchasing this http://www.sewingmachinediscount.co.uk/product/829/janome-5000q--stock-arrived-but-now-4-left-only--.html So first does anyone have any experience of this machine - I've had a very basic Janome for about 20 years and it's done great but doing more quilting and other sewing now think I…
Can you help me with Message Tea Bags?
Through the internet, over a period of about 8 or 9 years, I've made some really lovely friends who are all crafty in one way or another and we exchange various bits of things which we've made and send to each other, completely out of the blue - not for an occassion - but simple just 'because'. One of my over-seas friends…
Repairing/Customising Patent Doc Martens
I've got an old pair of Doc Martens I ruined by stupidly drying them inside with a hair dryer. Now the patent leather has peeled off. I got frustrated with the bubbles in them I ripped some of the patent leather off. It's only on the toe section of the boot. Now I'm thinking of customising or repairing it, but have no idea…
sewing help needed,please.
I have to cut holes in my sons vests so i can have easy access to his feeding button.I have tried cutting the circle and just hemming under but the cotton got eaten by the machine:o I have checked online but cant find any instructions or anything to give me some idea of how to do this :( I have bias binding but cant work…
Super Chunky - sewing up advice please
HI, I have recently knitted a lovely wrap with King Cole ultimate super chunky - which is a very thick yarn, very similar to what you can create with a "knitting nancy". However, it unravels very quickly and it is proving difficult to weave in the ends. Has anyone used this yarn or can offer suggestions? A friend sugessted…
Creative Stitches Magazine
Hello everyone, I am wondering if you crafty people can help me? I have asked in the cross stitch cafe, so now I am asking you. Years ago (1997) I had a magazine - issue one, so it was only 99p and it was published by Marshall Cavendish. Now move on about 10 years and I have a house fire - lose alot of my stuff, including…
New Sewing Machine Help :-(
I recently visited a London branch of John Lewis to purchase a sewing machine, I was almost set on the Singer Curvy at £469 but the demonstrator was unable to demonstrate the machine as she knew nothing about it! I am an experienced sewer, so wanted a computerised machine with different stitches, but I am not particularly…
Has anyone got a use for.....
A packet of machine sewing needles? They are 'D' shaped and look like they have never been opened.... I am having a clear out and came across them in a box under the bed.... If anyone would like them, PM me your address and I'll post them out to you!! My new sewing machine uses different needles.... Oh they are sharp…
Working Compasses
Would any of you crafty people know where one might buy some working compasses for crafts. Something reasonably priced and decent quality. I've looked around for these but always end up finding companies in China or elsewhere, which seem to have minimum orders of at least 500.
Help please I am looking for...
A small bag pattern to stitch, suitable for a christmas tree decoration obviously I'm willing to pay for the pattern as it will save me time and materials!!
Useful site? Waterproof fabrics etc
Just come across this site which specialises in outdoor fabrics, buckles, webbing, continuous zips etc. Could be handy if you make luggage, bags etc. catalogue -£1.50- includes 5 fabric samples of your choice. Leaflets (to buy) to make ponchos, small tents etc http://www.pennineoutdoor.co.uk/leaflets/catalogues
Sewing Machine is too fast!
I bought a reconditioned sewing machine from Sewing Machines Direct ( a great company) at Christmas. It's the same as this one. http://www.sew.co.uk/brother-rh127-sewing-machine?gclid=CL32i-Tawr0CFRDItAodR0sAYA I've just attended three sewing classes and used an Elna machine which I found much, much easier to use. My…
10% off fabrics & notions at Sewhot
Code SPRING10 Until 30th March Lovely fabrics, just ordered the spring fat quarters :) http://sewhot.co.uk/
Needed: needle clamp for Jones Vintage sewing machine
Recently iv been given a gorgdous old Jones sewing machine from Freecycle, but unfortunately its missing a vital piece, A needle clamp! Its a old jones model, so im struggling to find out if I can get a standard size needle clamp or if I need a specific type? Link to the model:…
Fabric Easter corsage
I've got to make one to take to a group. Well, actually, it's meant to be real flowers but I want to impress by making a beautiful fabric one. I've been practising folding circles, pinching, gathering and joining together and they look quite nice in felt but I want to make it more interesting, e.g. netting/organza/floral…
1st birthday craft
Hello. I'm visiting a friend at the weekend who's daughter will be turning 1 soon. I want to take a gift but am short on time (to shop) and funds! I do however have a cupboard over flowing with craft supplies!!! I can hand and machine sew well, I do a lot of card making and used to do a bit of jewellery making. I've…
What was your first quilting project?
Hi, new here.. never realised there was a crafting forum!!:j I visited the knit n stitch show last weekend and after watching a demo and buying what felt like half a ton of fabrics I now wonder where to start! I'm terrible st buying craft stuffs and using them once then loving on to the next idea but I loved the quilts I…
Free Shipping at Black Sheep Wools
Black Sheep Wools are running a free shipping promotion on all orders until midnight Wednesday 26th March! Perfect excuse to stock up on my stash!
Been given " heirlooms"
My mother has had a clear out and given me some stuff! I don't know what to do with it, It's all ancient and hand made , some baby cotton dresses with tiny pin tuck pleats , the crepe do chine bloomers my grandmother wore under her wedding dress in 1920! , hand made stoles, evening gloves that my hand won't go into, a big…

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MSE News

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Warm Home Discount expansion confirmed with millions more eligible for the £150 top-up this winter – here's what we know
Around 2.7 million more households, including 900,000 families with children, will become eligible for the £150 Warm Home Discount this winter, as the Government has confirmed it will remove the existing 'hard to heat' eligibility criteria. The extension has only been confirmed for winter 2025/26, with further changes possible for future years.
Base rate held at 4.25% – here's what it means and when it might be cut next
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Winter Fuel Payments to be reinstated for millions – Martin Lewis explains how it'll work, what it means and if it's an improvement
All State Pensioners in England and Wales will receive a Winter Fuel Payment this winter, though those who earn over £35,000 will see it clawed back through the tax system. It means nine million pensioners will get the £200 or £300 top-up. Here MoneySavingExpert.com founder Martin Lewis shares his instant response and analysis, and we include answers to your key questions.
Winter Fuel Payments to be reinstated for millions – Martin Lewis explains how it'll work, what it means and if it's an improvement
All State Pensioners in England and Wales will receive a Winter Fuel Payments this winter, though those who earn over £35,000 will see it clawed back through the tax system. It means nine million pensioners will get the £200 or £300 top-up. Here MoneySavingExpert.com founder Martin Lewis shares his instant response and analysis, and we include answers to your key questions.

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Crafting

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