My making philosophy is based on a “found – made- upcycled – rescued” approach. Winter is the time when I unbox my collected stash of pure woollen garments found in op-shops or donated to me by my crafty similar minded friends. Since it is too cold and wet or windy to indulge in my usual activity of eco-dyeing, I find great joy being indoors enjoying the warmth of our little home and cranking up my trusty old Singer sewing machine (another found item!).

Most of the garments I have felted to ensure there is no unravelling of woollen fibres. Then I cut out patterns for beanies and fingerless mittens which come out a treat. This year I stumbled on metres of a striped woollen fabric that I knew would look great in many different ways. While I am thinking up a pattern for a skirt for me and perhaps a few cushions (the bold stripes really look fantastic over our newly upholstered couch) I’ve managed to put together some very handy headbands for the more stylish and discerning amongst us.

The fingerless mittens and beanies are a little fiddly to put together but having done this for a few seasons now, I believe I have got it down to a fine working system. The challenge is always trying to ensure maximum usage of material with the least amount of waste. Eventually, I do end up with little pieces that I collect for cushion filling or discard into my worm farm ( this is one of the pleasures I get working with natural fabrics and fibres!)

So, if you are looking for some winter accessories, this is what I have currently got on offer. I also have a few pieces at the Victoria Street Collective in Bunbury and have got Romily from The Collie Providore in Collie ask to keep some pieces at their store. So watch this space. Until next time, cheerio!