Crafting Comforts
Edition 10
Sewing Sparkles
Hello November - The Season of Comforts
As the nights draw in and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to slow down, light a candle, and savour the simple pleasures that make life feel cosy. This month, we’ve wrapped up everything you love about Family Comforts into one warming bundle, a celebration of making, memories, and mindful moments.
Creating Calm with Aromatherapy
Our Aromatherapy Blog is all about creating calm at home, exploring how natural essential oils can lift your spirits and soothe your soul (with a few safety tips from me, of course!). Pair that with this month’s Gordon’s Grog, a rich, real hot chocolate recipe, and you’ve got the perfect evening in.
Christmas Pattern Bundle – Three Festive Favourites in One
This month, we’re treating you to a special Christmas Pattern Bundle – three of our favourite sewing patterns in one handy set, perfect for gifting or making heartfelt handmade presents. Whether you're stitching for stockings or sewing up something cosy, this bundle is ideal for getting ahead on your festive makes.
A Stitch from the Heart
For those who treasure heartfelt sewing, we’re sharing a Customer Story that truly touched us: two beautiful Memory Cushions made with love for two children to keep their special memories close.
Our Recipe of the Month brings the sunshine indoors – a Clementine and Almond Loaf, naturally gluten-free and full of gentle zest, perfect with a cuppa.
For your quiet evenings, curl up with our Book of the Month: A Merry Little Christmas by Cathy Bramley – a tale of friendship, kindness, and the little joys that make winter sparkle.
We’re also thrilled to reveal our new collaboration with The Trimming Shop, where we show you how to make adorable pumpkin and ghost bag charms – the perfect finishing touch to your autumn projects!
And Finally...
So grab your favourite mug, pop on our November Playlist, and enjoy this month’s newsletter – designed to bring warmth, creativity, and a sprinkle of comfort to your days.
With love and stitches,
Sandi xx
Family Comforts – Creating, Caring, and Keeping Memories Alive
PS You can quickly jump to each section of choice by clicking 'in this edition'
Spooky Little Charms with The Trimming Shop
We recently teamed up with the amazing team at The Trimming Shop to create these fun little Halloween key rings and bag charms. Using small pieces of leather, felt, and cork, we added a touch of sparkle and personality with spikes, studs, and rivets, all applied using our trusty Green Machine!
Their products are always such high quality and really do add a touch of luxury to any make. I absolutely love working with them as they’re reliable, creative, and full of clever little trims that make projects shine.
Although Halloween has passed, this simple method is perfect for creating charms all year round. Why not think hearts and stars for Christmas, flowers for spring, or even mini bears for your bags!
As always, we’d love to see what you make. Don’t forget to tag us in your photos, it truly makes our day to see your creations come to life.
Read our Latest Blog
Essential Oils for Sewing Room Wellbeing
Discover how simple aromatherapy rituals can bring calm, clarity, and creative flow to your sewing space – the perfect companion to cosy making days.
P.S. I’d love to know – what has inspired you to create a sewing project. Hit reply and tell me!
Claire’s Story - Cushions Full of Memories
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How one mother’s keepsakes became two treasured gifts
Some keepsakes are too precious to stay tucked away in a drawer.
One of my lovely customers, and my dearest friend, had carefully saved little treasures from her two children, Daisy and Finn, over the years. Favourite t-shirts, school ties and jumpers, sports tops, even tiny baby booties and an old beach towel, each one full of stories and laughter.
When the time came for Daisy and Finn to head off to university, she wanted them to take a piece of home with them, something familiar and comforting for those new adventures ahead.
So, using all those well-loved fabrics, I stitched two Memory Cushions, one for each of them. Every square carried a memory: family holidays, first teams, favourite colours, and moments that made their childhood special.
When they saw them for the first time, there were happy tears all round. Now those cushions sit proudly in their student rooms, a little piece of home wherever they go.
New In: Christmas Latte Mug
Wrap your hands around something cosy this season with our new Christmas Latte Mug – the perfect partner for winter mornings, sewing days, and festive evenings by the fire.
With its gently tapered shape and cheerful seasonal design, it holds just the right amount of your favourite brew – whether it's frothy coffee, mulled tea, or a festive hot chocolate topped with cream.
A lovely gift for a fellow maker, or a little treat for yourself to sip and sew in true Family Comforts style.
Embroidering on a Child’s Hoodie – Problem Solved!
A little while ago, one of our lovely customers, Kim, got in touch after purchasing our Handy Guide to Hooping & Stabilisers for Machine Embroidery.
She’d found the guide really helpful but had a tricky question – how to embroider a small child’s thick zip-up hoodie.
In her first attempt, the fabric and stabiliser layers were just a little too thick, and unfortunately, her hoop didn’t survive the process!
It’s a common problem – hoodies can be deceptively bulky, especially around seams and zips.
We were happy to guide her through a new approach, using a lighter stabiliser combination and floating the hoodie instead of hooping it directly.
The results were brilliant – Kim’s second attempt was a total success!
She kindly sent us this photo of her finished piece, and we couldn’t resist sharing it. Doesn’t it look wonderful?
It’s moments like these that remind us why we love what we do – helping you gain confidence with every stitch.
Sandi’s Top Tip:
When embroidering on thick garments like hoodies, avoid hooping directly if the fabric feels bulky or resistant.
Instead, hoop your stabiliser on its own, lightly spray it with temporary adhesive, and smooth the hoodie on top.
This technique is called floating and it helps prevent stress on your hoop and fabric, while still giving you perfect stitching results every time.
Christmas Pattern Bundle £15
Make this Christmas beautifully handmade
Bring festive joy to your sewing table with our limited-edition Christmas Pattern Bundle!
This charming trio includes a seasonal cushion & runner set, three mix-and-match stockings, and our nostalgic vintage pinny with oven mitt – all designed for easy sewing and thoughtful gifting.
Usually £19 – now just £15 while stocks last!
Perfect for using up favourite fabrics and adding a sprinkle of Family Comforts magic to your home.
Playlist of the Month
November Playlist – “Windy November Evenings”
As the wind rustles through bare branches and the light fades early, this playlist brings warmth to your sewing table. A gentle mix of nostalgic tunes and soulful melodies, perfect for slow stitching, quiet reflection, and those golden hours spent indoors.
Let each track wrap around you like a favourite jumper – soothing, thoughtful, and just right for creating something meaningful on a windy November day.
A Quick 'How to'
We've given you two options to listen to our choice of music - click on the 'Go to our Spotify Playlist' - you will need a FREE account already for this. OR...
You can listen straight from here by clicking on the 'play' arrow. Sorted. Music abounds.
Sewing Street Update
We’re back on Sewing Street – 23rd November!
Join us for two inspiring shows:
Show 1 – Cloud Bag
Drift away on a wave of creativity with the Cloud Bag – a soft, stylish design that blends everyday practicality with handmade charm. With gentle curves and thoughtful details, it’s a joy to sew and even lovelier to carry. Roomy yet elegant, it’s perfect for daily use or special outings, and show-exclusive Handy Guide bundles come with a little surprise too!
Show 2 – Vintage Style Hand Tied Quilt
By popular demand – a cosy, fleecy-backed quilt perfect for winter. Sandi will demo fleece backing, binding, and the gentle art of hand tying.
Pop the kettle on and sew along with us for a day of comfort and creativity.
Book Review of the Month
Hello November
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s something rather lovely about slowing down a little, lighting a candle, and enjoying the cosy comforts of home. November always feels like a month for gentle creativity, finishing those half-done projects, trying out new ideas, and finding warmth in simple moments. So, pop the kettle on, snuggle under a quilt, and let’s make this a month filled with comfort, kindness, and a little festive sparkle just peeking around the corner.
Sandi’s Book Nook
We haven’t got a sewing book this month, but I’ve delved into one from my own collection instead! In these darker evenings, there’s nothing I love more than snuggling up early with a cosy quilt, a hot drink, and a good book to get completely lost in.
This month’s choice is a heart-warming festive story that’s perfect for a little escapism before bed. I’d love to know what your favourite reads are, please pop me a message or tag me on socials and let’s share some bookish inspiration!
A Merry Little Christmas
By Cathy Bramley
If you’re ready to curl up with a heart-warming story that feels like a cosy fireside chat with an old friend, then A Merry Little Christmas by Cathy Bramley is just what you need this season.
Set in a charming English village filled with festive sparkle and community spirit, this story reminds us how magical the ordinary can be when shared with people we love.
Bramley’s writing is like a comforting hug, full of warmth, humour, and a gentle reminder that life’s best gifts often come wrapped in friendship and kindness.
It’s a tale of new beginnings, old friends, and finding joy in the simple things like a cup of tea, a snowy walk, or the laughter that only happens when you’re with your bestie. If you enjoy stories that leave you glowing inside and out, this one’s for you.
Perfect for: fans of Milly Johnson, Trisha Ashley, or anyone who loves a festive story full of heart and hope.
Family Comforts rating: 5 stars for festive feel-good charm!
Sandi’s Snippet
As the nights draw in and the world slows down, I’m reminded how precious true friendship really is. Whether it’s sharing a giggle over coffee or simply being there through the ups and downs, having a best friend is one of life’s greatest comforts. If you’re lucky enough to have one, make sure to tell them just how much they mean to you this Christmas.
Until Next Time
As we drift towards December, I just want to thank you for being part of my Family Comforts world. Every message, photo, and kind word you share means the world to us, it’s what keeps this little creative community glowing.
Take time for yourself this month, light the fire, pick up a project that makes you smile, and let the simple things bring you joy. Here’s to cosy evenings, good friends, and the gentle magic of making.
With love,
Sandi XX
Let’s Sew Together – Book Me for a Workshop, Course or Creative Talk!
Did you know I run friendly, hands-on sewing courses tailored to suit all levels, from beginners finding their way with a needle, to seasoned stitchers looking for fresh inspiration? My workshops are ideal for quilt groups, independent fabric shops, local sewing clubs, and even small groups of friends who love to sew together. I also offer inspiring talks for the WI and other community groups, sharing stories from behind the seams of my design journey (with a few cheeky bears thrown in for good measure!). If you’d like to bring some stitching magic to your group, event or venue, I’d love to chat. Let’s create something special together!
Top Tip:
When booking a sewing workshop, think about the projects your group will enjoy most—whether it’s learning a new technique, making a keepsake, or tackling a skill you’ve always wanted to master. Tailoring the theme to your group makes the day even more inspiring and memorable.
To view upcoming courses or to make an enquiry simple click below.
October Raffle Winner!
Thank you to everyone who subscribed during October – all new subscribers were entered into our special autumn raffle.
We’re delighted to share that our winner has been notified and will be featuring here soon, receiving her lovely autumn-themed prize!
Something special is on the way…
We’re just about to celebrate a rather exciting milestone, and we’ve been quietly working on a lovely surprise to mark the occasion.
There’ll be a chance to win a beautiful, hand-crafted memory bear – made just for you!
If you haven’t already subscribed, now’s the perfect time to make sure you don’t miss out.
Clementine & Almond Loaf Cake
A light, fragrant bake to brighten the darker days of November.
There’s something so comforting about the scent of citrus drifting through the kitchen when it’s cold outside. This loaf is moist, nutty, and just the right amount of sweet, lovely with a cup of tea while you’re hand-sewing or planning your Christmas makes. It keeps beautifully and makes a thoughtful homemade gift too.
Ingredients:
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• 200g softened butter (plus a little extra for greasing)
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• 200g golden caster sugar
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• 3 large eggs
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• 150g self-raising flour (could be Gluten-Free)
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• 100g ground almonds
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• Zest and juice of 3 clementines
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• ½ tsp baking powder
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• ½ tsp almond extract (optional, but lovely)
For the drizzle:
• Juice of 1 clementine
• 2 tbsp icing sugar
• Optional: a few toasted flaked almonds to scatter on top
Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 170°C (fan 150°C) and grease and line a 2lb loaf tin with baking parchment.
2. Cream together the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Fold in the flour, baking powder, ground almonds, zest and juice of the clementines, and almond extract until everything is smooth and fragrant.
5. Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until golden and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
7. While still warm, mix the drizzle ingredients together and spoon over the cake, letting it soak in.
8. Once cool, scatter with flaked almonds if you wish, and a dusting of icing sugar for a frosty finish.
Sandi’s Snippet
This loaf tastes even better the next day, the flavours deepen and the texture softens beautifully. Slice thickly, warm gently, and serve with a dollop of Greek yoghurt or a little cream for a weekend treat.
Gordon’s Grog Club
Real Hot Chocolate Hug
(Serves 2 generous mugs – because one is never enough!)
Ingredients:
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500ml whole milk (or oat milk for dairy-free)
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2 tbsp pure cocoa powder (unsweetened, 100% cocoa)
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1–2 tbsp maple syrup or runny honey (to taste)
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1 small square of 70% dark chocolate (optional for richness)
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½ tsp cinnamon
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¼ tsp vanilla extract
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A tiny pinch of sea salt
To serve (optional but delicious):
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A dollop of whipped cream (real or coconut)
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A sprinkle of grated chocolate or cinnamon on top
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A handmade marshmallow or two for special occasions
Method:
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Warm the milk gently in a saucepan — don’t let it boil.
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In a small bowl, mix the cocoa powder with a few tablespoons of warm milk to make a smooth paste (this avoids lumps).
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Add the paste back into the saucepan with the rest of the milk.
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Stir in the maple syrup (or honey), cinnamon, vanilla, salt, and the square of dark chocolate if using.
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Keep stirring on a low heat until everything is melted, glossy, and silky smooth.
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Pour into one of our special latte mugs, top with cream if you wish, and curl up somewhere cosy while the rain taps the windows.
Sandi’s Tip:
For an extra-warming twist, add a splash of oat cream and a whisper of orange zest or chilli powder – it turns this into an Art Deco-style indulgence worthy of Gordon himself.
Our Best Sellers this Month
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Happy crafting!
NB Applies to all items sold online.
Consider this.....
Once dubbed ‘the dull month’ by someone clearly not sewing – November is anything but! With threads flying like sparklers and pins popping like mini firecrackers, it’s the perfect time to cosy up with a hot baked potato and a good bit of stitching. Just keep the embroidery threads away from the mulled cider…
