From Farnborough Fun to “I Do”

Well, what a whirlwind that was! The Creative Craft Show in Farnborough has come and gone, and what a fabulous time I had. The show was alive with colour, creativity and conversations – the sort of atmosphere that leaves you buzzing with inspiration long after the doors close.

One real highlight for me was the success of my Lutradur bauble workshop. Learners worked with Lutradur Light and polystyrene baubles which I had pre-coloured to save time and get straight to the fun. We started by pushing Structure Paste through stencils onto the Lutradur, setting it with a quick blast of the heat gun. Then came the sprays of Walnut ink to add depth and colour, before drying and learning a dry brushing technique to add glittery highlights. With everything dry, the magic happened – cutting out flower forms, pinning them through a bead into the bauble centre, and watching them transform into unique, decorative pieces. Everyone left with a beautiful bauble, and lots of ideas to keep experimenting. I’ll be teaching this again at the Creative Craft Show in Exeter in two weeks’ time, and bookings for workshops are now open.

A huge thank you also goes to my sister, who not only gave me a bed for the week but also kept me well looked after. It makes such a difference having someone in your corner when you’re juggling workshops, chatting with customers, and spending long days on your feet. Plus, she makes a mean cuppa, which kept me fuelled through the busy days!

Now I’m back home, and reality is setting in. It’s the not-so-glamorous part of show life: unpacking the van, stocktaking, banking, and tidying up the studio before the making frenzy begins again. With Exeter so close, there’s not a lot of time to rest – the sewing machine is already humming away.

But here’s the biggest news of all… between Farnborough and Exeter, I’ll be getting married! Yes, I will soon be Mrs Rayfield. It feels a little surreal typing that, but I couldn’t be happier. So alongside stitching, counting stock and preparing kits, there are the does the dress look okay, and where will we eat afterwards. Its only a small Ceramony conversations going on too.

It’s going to be a busy couple of weeks – but filled with joy, love and creativity. I can’t wait to see everyone again at Exeter and share not just my latest makes, but also alittle bit of fun.