Christmas swapping

A while back the lovely Marianne of Ladybird Diaries set up a wee Christmas decoration swap for anyone interested in doing a crafty handmade swap. I loved the idea and promptly added my name to the list, only to find that Marianne herself had ended up being my swap partner.

So, I got busy thinking about what I wanted to make and eventually ended up finding this sweet little pattern which I couldn't resist. I had some of my left over Planet Penny cotton to use up and so I got hooking.

I love how they turned out, all a little different and really easy to make. I pinned a little vintage image badge and sewed a holly button embellishment on each of them to add to their character.
I know that they are not traditional Christmas colours, but I kind of like that sometimes.

They are the perfect little size to pop one of these into...

Since we haven't put our tree up yet (um, actually Alice did put her pink one up on Sunday) I took these little stockings outside for a location shot and to get some better Winter light on them.

When I got home after my conference at the end of last week a lovely parcel arrived from Marianne on Saturday morning. Such a nice treat to get after a hard weeks work.

I got thoroughly spoilt by Marianne, a candle, chocolate, mulled wine infusion, hand made tag, a card and 3 sweet festive handmade felt houses. Thank you so very much Marianne. I shall love adding these to our tree of meaningful and eclectic made and collected decorations over the years.

It really has kick started my festive mood. Great idea for the swap and thank you once again for organising it.

Last, but not least I'll leave you with a photo of the card I bought for Marianne from one of my favourite local artists, Claire Fletcher who lives in Hastings. I could not resist this beautiful image of a girl, a rabbit and a mole on a Christmas reindeer. How gorgeous!

Hooray for blog swapping and the friendships that are made.

xox

Thank you for visiting and see you all soon