JOYEUX NOËL ET BONNE ANNEE

I wish all my customers, followers and well-wishers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Thank you for your custom and encouragement.

Love,

Catherine

GREAT BRITISH SEWING BEE CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

Did you watch it? It was nice to see all the semi-finalists and winner again. Good to hear they had been busy, especially Lauren who opened an haberdashery. How brilliant! Actually, she's the one who made the most attractive gift of them all with her doll house.

Lauren's shop in Moseley Village, Birmingham http://www.guthrie-ghani.co.uk/

Home-made gifts indeed are not for everyone. However, one Christmas I was so short of money I made Barbie dolls clothes for my daughter. Whole sets, packaged like the commercial ones, it was so attractive that she thought it came from the shop.

I think people appreciate that sort of gift only if they think you are exceptionally talented at what you're doing. If they think you're an artist and want a well-crafted, attractive item, they'll be pleased to get one you've made especially for them. Otherwise, it is more of an embarrassment  than anything else, especially for men. The gardening belt featured in the programme may cause some unwelcome reactions, as the Guardian TV columnist pointed out in today's G2. Poor bloke!

In contrast, I really like the bag Stuart made for his boyfriend. However, I got lost in his instructions, but the result was great. I hope his man will appreciate.

Contrary to Kirsty Allsopp on Channel 4 whose personality (that whinny voice) I cannot abide, I love the unfussy and matter-of-fact presentation, the skills on show, the tutors and the whole atmosphere of the programme. I am looking forward to hear from them again soon.

If you want to watch it again, or if you've missed it, click: http://www.bbc.co.uk/i/b03mk8kb/
Hurry, only a few days left to watch.