Julie Arkell has been a friend of the shop for many years, so of course we had to include her in our anniversary book! You have most likely seen Julie’s work in the shop – her whimsical creatures constructed using papier-mâché, fabric, wool and found objects. Make sure you read to the end of the post to find out how you can win a copy of Julie’s book ‘Away’
Whimsical, thoughtful and charming, Julie Arkell’s work gives us a moment to reflect on the magic of making. After the success of her exhibition ‘Away’ at Ruthin Craft Centre last year, we’ve just had whole flock of Julie’s creatures come to visit. Carefully handmade from papier mâché with homely knitted outfits and embroidered details, each has their own personality and story.
One of the many joys of knitting or crochet is the portability of the craft. Several of us keep projects in our bags for the daily commute or to have with us for those ‘just in case’  moments when our hands are idle. And taking your latest work in progress to your local knit night is another occasion where your craft relocates. Project bags can therefore sometimes be an overlooked knitting essential when you are out and about. Not just practical as they keep your project clean and untangled, but as these designs by Melissa Wastney (Tiny Happy) show, they can be truly beautiful. …