Introducing... Vickie Piper

Vickie is absolutely the newest member of the staff team at the Frome shop. She shares some of her crafting loves with us...

1) When did you first get bitten by the crafting bug?
I suffered through needlework classes at school, and it wasn't until I went to the local comprehensive school that we were allowed to design our own projects. I made a pink satin cushion in the shape of a scalloped shell. I loved it, and they put it in the cabinet in reception!


I then had a bit of a break until I became a Mum, and was inspired to start making things again. I wanted fun, funky things for my son, and decided the best way to do that was to make my own.

2) What sorts of things do you like to make?
I mostly make things for children, and particularly for boys. I love to make presents for friends and family - soft toys, dressing up outfits and all sorts really. I recently developed a bag to use on the front of my son's scooter. He uses it to keep things in while he is out and about. They have been really popular!

Vickie's Scooter bags have been a real hit!

3) Which tool is indispensable in your sewing kit?
I am completely in love with disappearing ink felt-tips. They are the most brilliant invention ever! We sell them in the shop, and I use them for marking out before I cut fabric, and particularly felt. They are super for small appliqué projects as well. You can use them for any type of marking on fabrics and I wouldn't want to be without mine.

4) Who inspires you creatively?
I really enjoy reading other people's blogs. Even if I don't do their craft, I love to see what people are up to. One of my favourites is Male Pattern Boldness. He's a New Yorker who sews up wonderful creations from vintage dress patterns - often for himself.


I also love Mollie Makes - the new craft magazine from Future Publishing. I find it really inspiring reading. It's like a blog digest, with ideas from all round the world.


If you want to keep abreast of Vickie's crafting adventures, then check out her blog: Fromemaid. Vickie also Tweets as Fromemaid. She is also booked to run some crafting workshops in the new year, so keep an eye out for the new season's workshop programme, or call the shop (01373 464650) for further information.