An Intro From Sandi
An Intro from Sandi
Hello everyone and welcome to my first Family Comforts Newsletter!
I can’t begin to tell you how excited I am to be sending out this very first newsletter in line with the launch of this brand new website. A big thank you to everyone who has already subscribed. I promise not to bombard your inbox with countless emails—just a monthly letter to keep you updated on what I’ve been up to. However, I must confess there may be the odd extra one, especially if I have some exciting news to share!
If you’re new to Family Comforts and would like to learn more about my story and how it all began, you can click on Our Story here.
In these newsletters, I’ll be talking about all things crafty—from sewing and quilting to knitting, embroidery, and designing new projects. I’ll also share my favourite tools, books I’m enjoying, and even the odd recipe! This won’t be just a sewing newsletter—it’s about the full lifestyle of a crafter.
As many of you know, my husband Andy, Gordon Bear, and I love nothing more than travelling in our campervan, so you can follow along as we explore the UK and Europe, combining travel with work.
Last month, we travelled the length of France in our trusty campervan, Morrison. It was such a joy to see the colours change to rich autumnal shades—burgundies, burnt oranges, and deep greens—reflected in both the trees and skies, as well as in the local markets. These colours have inspired this month's palette.
Crafting Comforts
Edition 1 - Freshly Machined 2024
We spent 10 glorious days with dear friends in the beautiful village of Larreule in the Midi-Pyrénées. Even while travelling, I’m never far from my trusty Brother sewing machine! I’ll tell you more about this faithful companion in a future newsletter.
During our stay in Larreule, I designed a lovely Everyday Market Shopper bag, which features an introduction to Bargello. This pattern is now available as a PDF download in my shop. Naturally, the bag had its first outing at one of the local markets! As one of my first PDF patterns, I’m offering it at a special introductory price of £5 until the end of December. I’d love to see your creations—so I’m offering a gift voucher for the best photo of a finished shopper. The winner will be announced in our February 2025 edition (last entry accepted 31st January 2025).
Next month on Sewing Street (2nd & 22nd December) we will be bringing two exciting projects - The Tech Tote and The Marlow Slouch Bag. If you would like a little bit more info head over to our Sewing Steet & Yarn Lane page (there is a link below).
Since this is my first newsletter, I’d love to hear your feedback! Please let me know what you’d like to see in future editions. Every month, I’ll be including an 'Ask Sandi Q&A'—so be sure to get your questions in early for December's newsletter! Any questions featured will also be added to our new FAQ page so you will have a lasting reference. I’ll also invite you to explore my Crafters Book Corner, where I’ll review one book in depth (and it won’t always be a craft book!). Let me know what you’ve been reading, and share your thoughts on our book of the month. This month, I’m reviewing Debbie Shore’s Half Yard Autumn book—perfect for all your Autumnal projects. Click here to read the full review. It’s a wonderful addition to any crafter’s library, especially at this time of year.
Thank you so much for joining me on this journey—I look forward to sharing my travels and all things crafty with you each month.
Happy Sewing!
Love
Sandi and the team! xxx
Sewing Street Schedule
Family Comforts are on the TV!
We're excited to announce that Family Comforts has a regular slot on Sewing Street, the specialist craft channel dedicated to all things sewing and crafting. Tune in to catch us on 2nd December 2024 at 8am - 1pm for our latest show, where we'll be showcasing our brand new 'Tech Tote' pattern.
Our next launch on Sewing Street will feature another new project, this time we will be bringing our 'Marlow Slouch' bag, (you can read a bit more about them on our Sewing Street page) Each project comes with exclusive offers available only to those who join us and make a purchase on the day. Don't miss out on these special deals and the chance to see our new creations up close.
For more information on how to tune in and to stay updated on our Sewing Street appearances, visit our dedicated Sewing Street page.
Let's Talk Christmas!
Get ready to dive into the festive spirit with our Christmas creativity blog! Packed with creative ideas, tips, and inspiration for making thoughtful, handmade gifts for your loved ones - there is still oodles of time left.
From beginner-friendly projects like simple tote bags and cute cushion covers to more advanced creations like detailed plush toys and custom handbags, there's something for every skill level.
Our blog also explores the latest trends in sustainable sewing, mix-and-match patterns, and hand embroidery, ensuring your gifts are both stylish and eco-friendly. Start your holiday crafting journey now and make this Christmas truly special with unique, handcrafted presents.
Christmas Gift Ideas
Welcome to our new website
On offer until the end of December and by way of a 'thank you' for joining us on our new website. Make this your next handy project!
So here is your chance to have a go at this convenient, useful tote bag. If you have never made a bag pattern before you will find this a great starting point.
And once you have made it why not take part in our fun competition and share your photos? There is a gift voucher on offer for the best and the winning bag will be posted in our newsletter edition in February.
For your competition entry please either post on Instagram using the hashtag #myeverydayshopperbag or email as an attachment to sandi@family-comforts.co.uk.
Good luck and have fun making!
Book of the Month Review
Welcome to Sandi's Crafters Book Corner! Each month, we feature a specially selected craft book or magazine, reviewed with Sandi’s unique insights and favourite highlights. From the latest guides to inspiring journals, each review offers a peek into what makes each read worth adding to your collection. Click through to explore the full review and discover your next crafting inspiration!
Why not take a look around, we have a few interesting reads already featured on our dedicated page.
Consider this.....
A stitch in time saves
knicker elastic!
