Over the last few weeks I’ve been deep in making mode, building up stock and getting a fresh batch of felt toadstools underway. At the same time, I’ve been trying to post a short video story every day on Instagram. I’m treating it as training, thinking through how to film clear, beginner‑friendly embroidery stitch videos to support the downloadable sheets on my Sewing Snips page.
One thing I’ve discovered is that I naturally sew very close to my body, which makes it surprisingly difficult to keep my hands in frame. I’m now having to retrain myself to stitch over the table rather than against my body. It sounds simple, but goodness me, it has not been easy. However, I’m definitely getting better.
I’ve also been sharing a photograph of each Summer Bear and adding the first line of a music clip over the top. It’s worked really well, a tiny moment of personality that seems to suit them. I’m genuinely pleased with the outcome.
On a completely different note, I’ve become slightly paranoid about moths. My neighbour has unfortunately had her carpet eaten, and with the UK in the middle of a heatwave we’ve had the windows open in the evenings… and in come the pesky creatures. Because all my handmade stock is created from 100% wool felt, prime moth food, I’ve now bought plastic storage boxes with lids to keep everything safe.
I also have a large collection of beautiful Indian shawls that belonged to my mother‑in‑law, and I quickly checked those too. Thankfully they’re already stored in zip‑up plastic bags.
So, here are my moth‑prevention tips for anyone who works with wool, felt, yarn or handmade textiles:
- Lavender bags and scented soaps tucked into linen drawers
- Cedar rings on your clothes hangers
- Zip‑up plastic storage bags or lidded boxes.
- And if you spot any sign of the pesky creature, pop your item straight into the freezer
It’s not glamorous, but it works. And it keeps your handmade creations safe, whether they’re felt toadstools, embroidered decorations, or heirloom shawls.
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