About Me

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Hello again, I'm April Marie, that's me up there... the one on the left, Granny's on the right. My granny Leatha is the whole reason I'm here today with a lovely collection of crochet products which I can share with you. She's my teacher.

I've alway been creative and loved my colouring books as a kid so as soon as I knew I wanted to make things I was on the phone to Granny arranging my first knitting lesson, this then led to my first crochet lesson. My granny always had her knitting with her every time we went to visit so really it was obvious I'd follow in her footsteps. I'm not quite up to her skill level yet but after 50 years of practicing I'm sure I'll get there one day.

'I love to get hands on and make'

Born and raised within a close knit family I am inspired by tradition, history and good old family values and am keen to sustain traditional techniques and ideas. Working from my spare room at home I have developed a range of accessories to suit both the home and the body, many of which capture a sense of homely comfort, warmth and wellbeing.

I am inspired by the people and world around me. My patient fiance and beautiful pussy cat Flora are what keep me motivated, without them I'd probably work myself into the ground. It's so important to get out about and we love to go walking - not so much Flora anymore as she's a very old lady and doesn't venture away from our back garden, which suits me as I know she's safe. 

Being professionally trained at Nottingham Trent University (2006) in textile design, my portfolio of knowledge both contextually and technically is varied. I have a strong drive to create and through experimentation I have developed a diverse range of practical skills which I like to share with others. Like Granny I love to share my knowledge and pass on what I know (...and sometime don't know!) I have just started teaching a couple of ladies to crochet and would like to set up more workshops sometime in the near future... first thing, find a venue!

 

Communicating my ideas and networking with like minded people definitely drives my enthusiasm. As a member of The Nottingham Craft Mafia, a group of crafty folk based in Nottingham I am able to bring together my ideas and be inspired by others.

The Nottingham Craft Mafia - take a look and be inspired.

I have just recently been given Don status within the Mafia  which I have earned by stepping forward, getting involved and moving ideas and projects along. My main responsibility is to run our little shop, Mafia HQ on St James Street - Get Made. If you've not already been down for a gander it's well worth a visit. (Open 11am till 5pm Thursday, Friday & Saturday's)