Features
13 Thorpe Crescent E17 5BY, London, United Kingdom • Visit Website »

Sew a travel card holder in #ShopShowcase with Cheekyhandmades in London.


How did you get started?

In July 2010 I gave up my job to become a full time crafter. I didn't have a plan and wasn't too sure what exactly I was going to do even but now I'm a quilter, I teach sewing classes, I fix sewing machines, I take on bespoke sewing projects and I have a fabulous garden studio to work from.

Where are you located?

Walthamstow, East London, UK

Which products do you specialise in?

I love making unique heirloom quilts for people, and have made them out of baby clothes and men's shirts as well as denim and regular cottons. I also love collecting and fixing vintage sewing machines.

Do you have a particular favorite product that you sell?

All my quilts are my favourites!

What's on the stereo?

Usually radio 6 music, or anything from Iggy Pop, Dolly Parton to Kings of Convenience to Northern Soul. I must have music whilst I work!

Where else should we visit in your area?

There's an amazing range of cheap fabric and haberdashery shops in Walthamstow as well as many coffee shops, a Debbie Bliss home shop (she lives in e17!), Epping Forest is very nearby and I live right at the back of the amazing William Morris gallery. The E17 art trail is a biennial feast and everyone has to see the knitted garden (displays change regularly) on Howard Road!

Do you host any workshops, classes or special events?

I run sewing classes for beginners, dressmakers and quilters as well as teaching free emotion emvroisery, make do and mend and making your own jeans workshops. I also run kids making parties and hen parties in my studio.

Is there anything else you'd like us to know?

Last year I took a pledge to not buy any clothes apart from socks and underwear and to make the rest. I did pretty well and successfully made my own jeans and bras. No looking back now although I have bought some warm jumpers and leggings and a cute dress by local designers. I am now getting to grips with making knickers and would like to become wholy me-made dressed. Alas time is in short supply!


Do you have a favorite craft, art or supply shop in your town that we should feature? Send us a message!

Share


Follow

Comments

Latest posts from Shop Showcase

Archive

Recent Comments