Raffle Prize Winners

The Pre-Christmas Shopping and pampering extravaganza on Saturday went very well and we have some very lucky prize winners of the raffle as follows:

1st Prize of the Bow Trim Handbag or £45 of mrs madden makes gift vouchers goes to 244 - Sue Bullas

2nd Prize of a Peg pinny goes to 206 - Jean, Karen's Mum

3rd Prize of the Travel Sewing Kit goes to 272 - Linda Brown

Well done to you all.

If you didn't get chance to come along and would still like to have a look at mrs madden makes products you will be able to see me at the following fairs:

Harewood House, near Harrogate from Friday 27th November to Sunday 29th November Please visit my website to book tickets on line

Kirkroyds Pre School Christmas Shopping Evening at Wooldale Community Centre, Robert Lane, Wooldale, HD9 1XZ from 7.30 until 9 pm on Tuesday 1st December

Ripley School Fayre. The Fayre is on Friday 4th December at the Hotel De Ville in Ripley from 2.30 onwards

Denby Dale Pie Hall Christmas Shopping Evening on Wednesday 9th December from 7pm to 9.30pm

Press release

How exciting to have been included in the UK's first ever Home Enterprise Day! Below is the press release that was sent out about the event that myself and five other artisans held on Saturday

Come back soon to see the photos!

Celebrate UK’s first ever Home Enterprise Day

This year Global Entrepreneurship Week will spark activities in over 87 countries, involving millions of people. And it is the first year to see a day dedicated to people who are starting and growing a business from home in the UK.

Home Enterprise Day will take place on Friday 20th November and will be run by Enterprise Nation, the home business website. The aim of the day will be two-fold; to encourage more people to start a business from home and inspire existing businesses to grow. It will recognise all those who are turning ideas into action, hobbies into business, and the spare room into a fully functioning workspace.

Activities are being planned up and down the region including regional home business get-togethers, announcements from corporates on home business products and services, and online meet-ups.

Mrs Bev Madden, founder of Mrs Madden Makes, a Wakefield based business producing exclusive handbags and home wares, is opening her home to individuals looking for pre Christmas gifts and pampering as she brings together six entrepreneurs who have taken the plunge to work from home on their own crafts.

To celebrate Home Enterprise Day Bev will open the events doors on Saturday 21st from 11am to 4.30pm to showcase handbags, retro home wares and preserves, jewellery, cup cakes, Christmas cakes, unusual cards and hand-made gift wrap. Pamper experiences will also be available.

Bev from Mrs Madden Makes said: “In our experience home enterprise begins with a passion or talent. Our event simply brings together a group of local ladies who work from home and provides them with the opportunity to showcase their unique and beautiful talents – whether that’s creating one-off pieces of jewellery or baking tasty cup cakes for special occasions.

“We are all wonderful examples of successful businesses that function from the home. The cost benefits and flexibility of home working have allowed us to turn our passions into a business opportunity.”

Enterprise Nation founder, Emma Jones, said: “There is no better year in which to launch this national Home Enterprise Day. We have been providing information and inspiration to home businesses since 2006 but we’ve never seen conditions like it. More and more people are deciding to do something they love, make it pay, and have the freedom and flexibility that comes with self-employment. They are starting from home because it’s low risk, low cost and involves no commute!”

Jane Walton Head of Yorkshire and Humber for Enterprise UK said: “It’s brilliant that Enterprise Nation is involved with this year’s Global Entrepreneurship Week by launching Home Enterprise Day. Home businesses are making a powerful contribution to the UK economy and we will see this brought to life on Friday 20th November through a whole range of events and activities that are taking place across the Yorkshire and Humber region.”

Updates of activities taking place on the Day will appear at www.enterprisenation.com and www.gew.org.uk

To find out more information about Mrs Madden Makes, please contact 0779 959 0371

Media notes:
For media enquiries about Home Enterprise Day or Enterprise Nation, please contact: Emma Jones, Founder, Enterprise Nation
07899 871 698

For media enquiries about Global Entrepreneurship Week please contact:
Emma Lupton or Lindsey Davies of Open Communications on 01924 950450 or email emma.lupton@opencomms.co.uk Lindsey.davies@opencomms.co.uk
A few facts & figures on home business

Over two million businesses already operate mainly from home. *1

61% of new businesses were launched from home in 2008 *2

Home based business is intrinsically low carbon. Operating from one property instead of a separate home and workspace cuts commuting. It also reduces the carbon emissions generated by constructing and fuelling separate premises. *3

Home based businesses face lower costs, spending significantly less on their workspace and travel than those using separate premises. Not commuting also saves time, increasing potential productivity. *4

Over 5 million people in the UK are holding down a day job and building a business at nights and weekends. We call this 5 to 9 working. The increase is being driven by a desire to earn extra income in troubling economic times and an ambition to turn a hobby/passion/skill in to a way of making a living. Of the businesses being run part-time, 50% are growing and 26% of the owners expect to be going full time within the next 3 months/38% in over a year. These part time ventures will soon become full time businesses - they represent an enterprise renaissance. *5

Home based businesses are re-defining growth. Many grow by outsourcing and sub-contracting, creating jobs in other businesses rather than taking on staff themselves. *6

Home business owners are optimistic about the future with 72% saying they plan to win new customers in the next 6 months and 58% working on developing new products and services. *7
Sources:
*1 ONS Labour Force Survey
*2 UK Global Entrepreneurship Monitor
*3 & 4 ‘Can Homeworking Save the Planet’, The Smith Institute
*5 ‘Working 5 to 9 – how to start a business in your spare time’
*6 & 7 Enterprise Nation 2008 Home Business Report

Global Entrepreneurship Week

Global Entrepreneurship Week (16th-22nd November 2009) is a rallying point for a worldwide movement of entrepreneurial people, and this year will highlight the crucial role that entrepreneurs and their ideas will play in driving economic recovery in the UK and globally. More than 87 countries across the globe are signed up to take part, and millions of people will use the week to connect with their global counterparts, unleash their enterprising talents and turn their ideas into reality. The movement is co-founded by Enterprise UK, formally Make Your Mark, in the UK and the Kauffman Foundation in the US. It supported by the Department of Business Innovation & Skills. Last year, over three million people from 77 countries attended just over 25,000 events in countries as diverse as the BRICs, the USA, Nigeria, Afghanistan, Malaysia, Australia and France.
www.gew.org.uk

Global Entrepreneurship Week

Global Entrepreneurship Week takes place from November 16th–22nd. It's a worldwide movement of entrepreneurial people, with millions unleashing their enterprising talents and turning their ideas into reality. Go global this November - find out what activities are happening in your area at www.gew.org.uk

I shall be taking part by hosting an event on Saturday 21st November. Click on the link below to read more about the event:
http://www.gew.org.uk/events/mrs_madden_makes_pre-christmas_shopping__pamper_extravaganza

Christmas is coming – Bring it on!
6 Yorkshire Ladies who have taken the plunge to work from home on their own fantastic crafts are getting together to promote their beautiful hand made products just for you.
Time:11am to 4.30pm
Venue:Church View Cottage 3 Vicar Lane, Ossett, Wakefield WF5 0BE

Even though I say it myself we have some fabulous gifts this year and we are able to offer you some fantastic savings on normal fair prices too!
Come and see my new selection of handbags along with my best selling retro home wares and preserves. www.mrsmaddenmakes.co.uk
Jeanette will be here too with her beautiful jewellery for people who appreciate one-offs. www.jeanettesargent.com
Slacken off your belt so you can enjoy some of Sarah’s gorgeous cup cakes and Christmas cakes. www.sarahsbakery.co.uk
Looking for unusual cards, then look no further, Betty will be here. You’ll be spoilt for choice!
To complement your present buying, Karen will be here with her hand-made gift wrap. www.karen-kaye@blogspot.com
To complete the whole pamper experience, pre-book your treatment with Diane – Back, neck & shoulder or Indian head massage – still only £5!

• Treat yourself to some ME TIME
• Come along with some friends & family to catch up on the gossip.
• Shop in a relaxed environment away from the hustle & bustle of the high street while enjoying a complimentary glass or two of wine.
• Indulge yourself : you may just win the fabulous raffle
• Unique hand made products not available on the high street
• Put the date in your diary now!
Hope you can make it. We look forward to seeing you all for another fabulous day!
Please RSVP & pre-book your treatments to avoid disappointment

Best wishes Bev

Telephone
0779 959 0371
Email
info@mrsmaddenmakes.co.uk

Free Delivery on all of my favourite books and more

Free Delivery on All Amazon.co.uk Orders This Christmas

I'm pleased to announce that Amazon have removed their FREE Super Saver Delivery Threshold - the amount customers need to spend with Amazon.co.uk to qualify for free delivery - for the festive season. This means that each and every Amazon.co.uk product you buy this Christmas qualifies for free delivery.

With the nights drawing in and Christmas fast approaching why not treat yourself or a loved one to one of my recommended books on crafting from Amazon by clicking on the link down the right hand side - mrs madden makes Hand-made store.

FREE Super Saver Delivery will be available on all products until January 1st 2010. To be clear, FREE Super Saver Delivery excludes third party sellers where the product is not dispatched by Amazon. We hope this helps you have a merrier Christmas and thank you for your continued participation in my blog.

Let me know what you buy and how it inspires you - I would love to hear.

October heralds the beginning of Autumn

I’m sure you have all been away at some point this summer and are all feeling refreshed and raring to go? I hope so. Well I’ve just come back from visiting my cousins in Michigan – the Land of the Great Lakes and the Cherry Capital and I have had a great time. Except for the jet lag kicking in and kicking me I feel really relaxed. Michigan is a great place for inspiration for my sewing and painting, so keep watching out for my snippets over the next few months to help and inspire you too.

This month’s features:
Old’s the new new
NEW personal shopping tailored to you
Sneak Preview - my NEW line in novelty print aprons
Order now for Christmas
Apron Stories – what’s yours?
Remember the Loyalty Card for mrs madden makes customers

Old’s the New new!

I say if you learn just one new thing from your travels, it’s worth it! Well I’ve nearly filled my notebook on this trip. But one thing that came across quite strongly was that OLD is the NEW new! I think I’m going to adopt is as my new mantra as it fits really well with my type of products.
America is all about upcycling and not so much recycling. It’s what can be made out of something that you were going to throw out and thought was no longer useful for anything. It’s about where old and new come together to make something unique, exclusive and divine.
So if you are decluttering your wardrobe ready for the autumn, think before you throw…is there something you can turn your old clothes into and make yourself something new to wear? A piece of jewellery, a pair of mittens, new bag?????

This bag made from upcycled fabrics can be found at:
http://www.notmassproduced.com/ in the accessories section

I’m in the process of putting some simple craft worksheets together, so please lookout for my next newsletter or visit this Blog to help you upcycle some of your bits and pieces.

Personal Shopping – Private Viewings
I know that it is sometimes difficult to find time to attend shows. They’re not always on a day that is convenient or you only have an hour or so to do your shopping. So I have introduced a new service just for you:
Personal Shopping Hour(s)
These can be tailored to suit you, either by yourself or with some friends
Come along and view my entire range
Get to touch and feel the quality
Pick your products in a hassle free environment
You can also discuss any made to order requirements - choose from a great selection of fabric swatches and trims
Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine or cup of tea or coffee
Ring 0779 959 0371 or email me info@bevmadden.com to book a time that is suitable for you
The entire studio will be open JUST FOR YOU
You can book just an hour or more if you need it
Don’t delay – book your personal shopping trip now and treat yourself.

Sneak preview – Novelty print aprons

Have a look below at my selection of novelty print aprons before they go live on the web and are for sale to the general public from this weekend. Choose from 3 designs:
Delightful doggy print – cute dogs complete in their winter outfits

Adorable ducks with a vintage Campbell’s Soup pocket – one for the pot???? Kitsch kitchen utensils in stunning grey black and white – one for the man in your house??? Fantastic value at only £15.99 (£17.99 at the shows) If you are interested in treating yourself to one, please email me by the end of Thursday. I’ll also treat you to FREE p&p on them.

Order now for Christmas
We haven’t even turned the clocks back yet, but it’s never too early to get organised for Christmas, especially if you would like something exclusive and hand made for a special present.
My Christmas preparations started a few months ago so I have lots in stock that I haven’t yet managed to get on the website. If you have something in mind please contact me and I can send you some pictures or you can call in to have a private & personal viewing. Or remember that I can also make to order if you have specific requirements……my beautiful fabric store is growing….my husband now says we need a warehouse!!!!

Apron Stories – What’s yours?
One of my lovely cousins, Marge, in America sent me this one. I am putting together a book about aprons so would love to hear your stories, sayings, anecdotes, old or new. If you have bought one from me, when and where you wear it, what stories can it tell? Email me and attach a picture if you want to.

The History of the Apron - In the fall, the apron was used to bring in apples that had fallen from the trees.
The principal use of Grandma's apron was to protect the dress underneath, but along with that, it served as a potholder for removing hot pans from the oven.
It was wonderful for drying children's tears, and on occasion was even used for cleaning out dirty ears.
From the chicken coop, the apron was used for carrying eggs, fussy chicks,
and sometimes half-hatched eggs to be finished in the warming oven.
When company came, those aprons were ideal hiding places for shy kids.
And when the weather was cold, grandma wrapped it around her arms.
Those big old aprons wiped many a perspiring brow, bent over the hot wood
stove.
Chips and kindling wood were brought into the kitchen in that apron.
From the garden, it carried all sorts of vegetables. After the peas had been
shelled, it carried out the hulls.
In the fall, the apron was used to bring in apples that had fallen from the
trees.
When unexpected company drove up the road, it was surprising how much
furniture that old apron could dust in a matter of seconds.
When dinner was ready, Grandma walked out onto the porch, waved her apron,
and the men knew it was time to come in from the fields to dinner.
It will be a long time before someone invents something that will replace that "old-time apron" that served so many purposes

Loyalty Card
As a special thank you to all my customers, I have introduced the mrs madden makes LOYALTY CARD. Whenever you now spend £25 or multiples of it, you will be rewarded with a sticker on your card. Collect 4 and you will be entitled to 20% off your next purchase. It’s amazing how quickly you will get to your discount. Start now and you will be able to make some terrific savings on your Christmas gifts. These are available on all purchases via my web site and with me directly.

Well that’s all for October. Hope to see you at the shows. Enjoy the last of the warmer days and look out for my newsletter in November.


Enquiries: T: 0779 959 0371
E: info@bevmadden.com
http://www.mrsmaddenmakes.blogspot.com/
http://www.mrsmaddenmakes.co.uk/
Content & product Copyright © mrs madden makes. 2009. All Rights Reserved.

How to harvest lavender

Well I feel so laid back and relaxed as I have just spent the past hour harvesting my lavender.

It 's such a shame to do it in one way as the bees seem to be having a ball but if I leave it any longer then it will all have gone to seed.

How to harvest your lavender:

• It's best to harvest it when it is in full flower as it holds it's scent the best and longest.
• Arm yourself with an apron with pockets - I use my favourite garden apron as it has lots - a ball of string, a pair of scissors or secateurs and a few paper carrier bags. However any kind of paper bag will do.
• I put my ball of string into one pocket and my scissors in the other.
  Cut into the lavender and try to get as long stalk as possible. Try not to cut into the dead wood as it will prevent it from flowering next year.
• Tie a piece of string around a good bunch and then tie this to the handles of the bag, making sure the lavender is inside the bag of course. The seeds can then dry off and fall into the bag.
• 
  Keep doing this until the bag is full, about 4 to 5 bunches and then move onto the next bag.
• 
  Next tie the handles together with the string
• 
  Tie the bag to a hook or somehing similar in a dark, dry room such as an airing cupboard. I tend to use my airing cupbaord but also my cellar. It's lovely when you open the door and your linen smells of lavender.
• 
  Leave for a couple of months until it is really dry and the seeds fall off, then you are raring to go.

Come back soon and I will tell you How to make a lavender sachet.

Enjoy the sunshine while it lasts!

Summer Fairs

What a fabulous day we had at the launch of my very good friend's bakery business -http://sarahsbakery.co.uk/

Sarah had baked so many cup cakes for the event but even so could not keep up with the demand on the day. Take a look at these beauties.....

A few of also exhibited our wares on the day too...http://www.jeanettesargent.com/ with beautiful silver gold and bronze jewellery.

.....http://www.karen-kaye.blogspot.com/ with fantastic gift packaging and new birthday banners

Julie with her fantastic beaded bra straps - great for summer strappy dresses..mailto:diamonds309_forever@hotmail.co.uk

And yours truly with my vintage homewares....

And to keep us all calm and relaxed Diane was on hand to do massages...they come highly recommended....to book your own Di-Stress pamper event contact Diane on mailto:diane.westmoreland@tiscali.co.uk

And a special thanks to Sue who was on hand to help serve the drinks and nibbles doing a very important job keeping everyone well watered and happy!

If anyone would like to book us for a party or event at their house please just give us a call and see how you can benefit from our special offers for hosts mailto:info@bevmadden.com

Custom Made Hand Bags

I am so passionate about sewing and being creative that I am usually thinking about my next project while I am still completing the one I am on.

So I just wanted to share with you my latest creation. This wonderful Hand Bag that comes complete with a decorative bow trim which co-ordinates with the lining.

This bag is posh enough for all those summer weddings, visit to the races or just arm candy for all those lovers of pretty handbags.

As a SPECIAL OFFER to all the subscribers to my newsletter, I am giving 10% off all custom orders booked by the end of June 09 or the hand bag in the photo.

To subscribe to my newsletter drop me a line at: mailto:info@bevmadden.com

If you have an outfit in mind I will be able to co-ordinate the lining colour and bow to match it.

Item details:

Shell: Cream jaquard cotton

Lining & Bow: Dusky pink vintage cotton floral

Handles: Clear Perspex

Height: 24cms

Width:32cms

Price: £45 including postage and packing

10% offer = £40.50 if ordered before the end of June 09

Chelsea Flower Show

Hurrah, today sees the start of the Chelsea Flower show and I'm really jealous of my friend Sarah who is going this year and will get to see all those gorgeous gardens and smmmmelll all those wonderful fragrances.

If it wasn't for this awful weather I would say that this is the beginning of summer. But hey ho, apparently Wednesday will see the sun shining and I may be able to get out into the garden. I have lots of pansies that need planting into my tubs, but I'm certainly not going out in this rain!This year sees Chelsea encouraging everyone to "Grow your Own" and what better way to do it, is to be seen in your garden looking the part. Why not treat your self to one of my newest aprons? They can be bought on line at www.notmassproduced.com - see the link on the top left of this page

They are also encouraging children to start growing their own vegetables too and wouldn't they look adorable in these lovely durable aprons and also keep their clothes free from dirt Mum!

Both ladies and girls aprons have delightful embroideries to the front or pockets. Go on treat yourself now and get ready for summer!

Have a great time in the garden and take time to smell the roses!!!

Declutter and get Organised

I subscribe to this wonderful newsletter at http://www.spaceorganising.com/ and thought I would share with you some of the tips that Angie freely gives out. And I also thought it would be really useful and inspirational for all those crafters out there like me!

"One great reason to declutter and get organised is so that you can make yourself some space to be creative! Not just being 'arty', but letting what ever it is that inspires and motivates you express who you really are and what you love to do. Whether that be writing, painting or drawing, sewing, crafting or woodworking This month's tips focus on helping you to find and equip your creative space One step at a time, you will be making space for life!"

Go on treat yourself and view Angie's tips now for that mid-week dose of inspiration! http://www.spaceorganising.com/

Copyright 2008 Angie Griffin Space Organising. Professional Organiser Angie Griffin publishes the FREE Space Organising Newsletter. If you are ready to clear your clutter and get your life organised then sign up for your FREE tips now at www.spaceorganising.com

Angie has also featured your's truly with my handcrafted Notice Boards to make all those horrible filing jobs a lot easier. See my "HOW TO" article below:

mrs madden makes.....Bev Madden has been very busy in her studio in Ossett in Yorkshire. She loves to put the heart back into a piece of fabric by giving it a new lease of life. Recycling with love!

Bev says: "Paperwork often gets left lying around and within no time at all it becomes an overwhelming job. Minds can be filled with the pile of unanswered letters on desks and can weigh heavily and eat away at energy levels. I have created an easy to use notice board that's tailored to everyone's needs.

Whether it's a colour you love, a fabric to match the decor or a really popular one that has individual pockets embroidered with relevant titles such as Bills; Bank; School; Party Invites; To Action. It has to be something that you will love to use and will make filing a joy to do"

For lots of vintage-style goodies and some really pretty gifts visit her online shop on etsy.com also on www.notmassproduced.com

Email: info@bevmadden.com

Mobile: 0779 959 0371

April Newsletter

April brings all things EXCITING!
Spring into action with
mrs madden makes

Well I have lots, to tell you this month:
My new venture with http://www.notmassproduced.com/
Wardrobe tips and advice
My NEW line to help with the washing (no pun intended!)
Links to some fantastic artisans

Visit MY NEW SHOP ON:

http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=kecal9cab.0.0.h96yh9cab.0&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.notmassproduced.com%2F&id=preview
Independent Designers for Independent ShoppersLooking for a special Gift? Looking for something original, unique and handmade? Something made by talented artisans, not a soulless factory? Something that looks like you have gone to a lot of trouble finding? You have arrived at your destination!

"Surely the definition of alternative, you won't find any of these gifts in your local House of Fraser." Times on-line, Feb. 2009
"...having a browse can mean discovering some really original and unusual items by UK and European designers." Easy Living May 2009
I'm so excited! Please take a look at my NEW STOCK in the HOUSE section on this fantastic web site: http://www.notmassproduced.com/
I have also been featured on the HOME PAGE which is an honour indeed!
Everything can now be purchased in sterling, which will make it easier for you to shop. When you click on the link below it will take you to one of my embroidered aprons, and when you scroll down to the bottom of the page there is a tab you can click on that says: Other products from this Artisan.If you have time why not curl up with a nice cup of tea and see what I have to offer. Perhaps treat the chef or cook in your life to a new apron or pinny for Easter?To view please click on this link:http://www.notmassproduced.com/product/6369643d3637267069643d353934/embroidered-apron.htm

Wardrobe tips and advice
The clocks have gone forward, the lighter nights are here and the weather has got ever so slightly warmer and I'm sure like me your thoughts are turning to what to wear. Out with the layers of winter clothes and in with lighter weights and fresh colours of spring, and what better time to think about sorting our wardrobes than over the Easter holidays?

Here are some fantastic Wardrobe clearing tips from Angie Griffin at Space Organising to get you started.Get readyThrow back the curtains or put on the brightest lights. There is no hiding place for the items that lurk deep within your closet. It may seem cruel to scrutinise your clothes so closely but if they don't stand up to the test, then they have to go Set up a long mirror next to where you put on your clothes. Always check yourself full length, front and back, no matter how painful! Try everything on and take a good look at your face. Are you smiling? If not, toss the item in the 'throw' pile Have a sewing kit on standby. Pins, needle, thread and a few shirt buttons. No time like the presentGet setGet ALL your clothes, underwear, shoes, coats and accessories together from around the house, the car, the laundry basket and the dry cleaning pile. Try everything on and be ruthless! Clothes and shoes that are worn out in any way (unless you are a Heavy Metal fan and under 20 years old) don't make you look casual and bohemian, they make you look freaky and unhinged!Go!There are lots of ways you can make yourself feel better about getting rid of every day items that make you look dreary or those dreadful bargains stuffed at the back of the wardrobe Dress agencies will take clothes in good condition, in season or still have the labels on. Not for the faint hearted! They will be very picky about what their customers will buy Ebay is great if you are prepared to jump through the hoops of photographing, measuring, describing, checking the bids, packaging and sending the goods Car boot sales are a quick and relatively painless way to shift large quantities of clothes. Always hang them on a rail, lay shoes out on a groundsheet or tableCharity shops are a godsend when you want a good clear out. They will take almost anything. Even damaged items are sent for rags and the charity can benefitWomen's refuges are tremendously appreciative of clothes, shoes and accessories. Often women and children have to leave abusive environments with nothing but what they are wearing

To donate to your local branch: http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=kecal9cab.0.0.h96yh9cab.0&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.womensaid.org.uk%2F&id=preview
Get involved and help with fundraising: http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=kecal9cab.0.0.h96yh9cab.0&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.refuge.org.uk%2F&id=preview
Professional Organiser Angie Griffin publishes the FREE Space Organising Newsletter. If you are ready to clear your clutter and get your life organised then sign up for your FREE tips now at

http://www.spaceorganising.com/
Copyright 2009 Angie Griffin Space Organising

GET KITTED OUT
Now that you have decluttered and sorted your wardrobe.. only kidding...it is holiday time after all! But I imagine you are now thinking about it? Need to launder any of your Spring clothes so that they will be fresh as a daisy and ready for you to wear as soon as the sun comes out? Doing the washing will never seem such a chore again if you are kitted out in something bright and fun that will inspire you.How about treating yourself to a NEW little aid to make hanging out the washing a lot easier for you?

Well I have designed this new "Peg Pinny".

It has two large re-inforced pockets for your pegs and it's just a matter of tying it around your waist and hey ho you have your hands free to peg the washing on the line. No more fumbling around and looking for pegs.
To buy on line please go to:

http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=kecal9cab.0.0.h96yh9cab.0&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.notmassproduced.com%2F&id=preview

Email me if you would like me to make one specially for you to match your colour scheme: info@bevmadden.com

CUP CAKES Galore!!

Take a look at these wonderful cakes from my friend Sarah. I'm sure like me you will find them hard to resist!!!

Contact her at:
sarah@sarahsbakery.co.uk

The Easter Gift Wrapping Parade!
Karen Kaye Party Organising & Gift Wrapping
For those of you giving Easter gifts Karen has handmade some lovely Easter gift bags and excellent Easter Bunny boxes which are ideal for small gifts or for those all important Easter Egg Hunts which are so popular these days.

Easter bunnies are available in pink or yellow, each have an origami folded box "hidden" between the back and front bunny shapes and are finished off with a ribbon round their necks which handily tie the front and back of the box together!

Check out Karen's blog to see all of her lovely goodies:
http://karen-kaye.blogspot.com/

Contact Details

E-mail: parties.gifts@gmail.com

Mobile: 07793061263

And finally I hope you all have a brilliant Easter with lots of sunshine and chocolate!!!!


Please note if you are local to Wakefield I am more than happy to deliver any purchase for you or you are welcome to collect if you are in the vicinity.

I accept Cheques and Paypal. Please make cheques payable to: Bev Madden
When you place your order, I will send you an invoice with a PayPal function.

Ring Bearer Pillow

With the wedding season upon us let me share with you my latest creation.......

Something old, something new!

What better treasure than this beautiful vintage embroidered ring bearer pillow for your special day?

A lovely bouquet of flowers enhanced with the words:"With this ring I thee wed"An ivory satin heart and ribbon will hold your ring or rings in place until the right moment.The linen cover is removable and measures 14"/36cms square. It comes complete with a cushion pad.

If you would like to purchase this please go to my shop on not mass produced. com

http://www.notmassproduced.com/product/6369643d313035267069643d363337/ring-bearer-pillow.htm

Or if you want one personalised please email me your details to:

info@bevmadden.com

A TUSCAN LANDSCAPE

What a lovely weekend I had! I spent Saturday learning a new craft - using my water colour skills and combining them with my embroidery skills - and by the end of the afternoon coming out with this picture.
It needs stretching before I can frame it, but I just thought I would share my experience with you. I am now raring to go and try these techniques out on some fabulous paintings of Cape Town from my recent holiday...watch this space.
I am also going to try and combine them to make "Keepsake" pictures for births, weddings and christenings. Oh if there was only 48 hours in each day!!!
The day was run by Felicity Owens at Abakhan in North Wales: for a list of their courses go to:
www.abakhan.co.uk
She was fantastic and very inspirational. Only 11 people in the group which meant that you got individual attention and you got to meet a lot of lovely like-minded people

FABULOUS FEATURE

I'm so excited! I have been featured on the HOME PAGE of notmassproduced.com. Please take a peak:

http://www.notmassproduced.com/index.htm

MY NEW SHOP ON www.notmassproduced.com

Please take a look at my NEW STOCK on this fantastic web site: www.notmassproduced.com
Everything can no be purchased in sterling. When you click on this link it will take you to ine of my embroidered aprons, but when you scroll down to the bottom of the page their is a tab you can click on that says: Other products from this Artisan. If you have time why not curl up with a nice cup of tea and see what I have to offer. Perhaps treat the chef or cook in your life to a new apron or pinny for Easter?

EMBROIDERED APRON - House handmade gifts and handmade products from independent designers not mass produced

FRILLY PINNY - House | handmade gifts and handmade products from independent designers | not mass produced

FRILLY PINNY - House handmade gifts and handmade products from independent designers not mass produced

March Newsletter

March brings all things BRIGHT & BREEZY…

SPICK AND GLAM

With the clocks about to go forward and the days becoming longer…at long last spring is here! And what better time to tackle the spring cleaning. It will never seem such a chore again if you are kitted out in something bright and fun that will inspire you.

Take a look at some gorgeous products that are guaranteed to make you want to roll up your sleeves.

Become part of the “gleam team”, open those windows and keep the doors open with a fun doorstop,
treat yourself to a new peg bag and put the washing out

Glam up your cleaning kit and freshen up your home for spring. http://www.mrsmaddenmakes.etsy.com/

In the meantime, if you fancy a day out, why not come at visit my stall at the RAYON ROSE vintage fair in Chapel Allerton this Saturday the 21st March….the 1st official day of spring!

You are invited to tea
Vintage Fairs & Tea Parties
Methodist Centre, Town Street,
Chapel Allerton, Leeds, LS7 4NB
Saturday 21 March,.
Chapel Allerton’s
Vintage Fairs and Tea Parties £2 entry

We will be selling vintage and retro clothes, jewellery, paintings, knitted goods, furniture and collectables. There is also a tea room where you can enjoy a selection of teas, homemade fairy cakes and sandwiches in a nostalgic environment.
So whether you’re after that special item of clothing, the perfect teapot or just want to soak up the atmosphere and eat cake Rayon Rose is the place to be.
Please see our website for more info, maps, and links to my space and Face book or to join our mailing list www.rayonrose.co.uk rayonrose@googlemail.com


Please note if you are local to Wakefield I am more than happy to deliver any purchase for you or you are welcome to collect if you are in the vicinity.

I accept Cheques and Paypal. Please make cheques payable to: Bev Madden
When you place your order, I will send you an invoice with a PayPal function.


Enquiries: T:0779 959 0371
E: info@bevmadden.com
http://www.mrsmaddenmakes.blogspot.com/
http://www.mrsmaddenmakes.etsy.com/


Content & product Copyright © mrs madden makes. 2009. All Rights Reserved.

mARCH nEWSLETTE

February brings all things LOVELY…

Valentines Day
Pretty Organisers

Why not make life simpler this year & get organised for a great 2009?

How many of us make a New Year’s resolution to be more organised? If you’re like me, I set off with all good intentions at the beginning of January and come February, I am still looking for the stamina to complete the filing and clear my desk.

I have started and I can see the light at the end of the tunnel, but it’s such a boring job!! And I much prefer being creative. So in order to make my life easier, I developed a fantastic notice board that makes filing and keeping notes much quicker and more accessible and looks pretty too!

It comes with at least 5 pockets to sort things into and can rest on a shelf or hang on the wall. It’s fully padded and the pockets are deep enough to hold all sorts of memorabilia. You can even attach bulldog clips to the pocket tops. If you want, each pocket could be a designated area, i.e.: “To Do” lists, bills to pay, envelopes, stamps, receipts, diary etc etc.

Here are a few of the notice boards that I have already had commissions for:

As you can see they can be portrait or landscape and can be colour co-ordinated to match your décor. They cost £35 each + p&p. I can also use your fabric if you want it to match your curtains.

Here are some ideas to save you time & money and uses for your notice board:

Keep your paperwork under control
Have a separate bulldog clip for each credit card. When you get receipts, add them to the relevant clip & when your statement comes in check off the collated receipts against it, then shred them. You’ll have your statement as proof of purchase.

Set up the pocket system
Read, action or file paperwork each week so it doesn’t stack up. Keep pockets that suit you – financial, credit & bank statements – household, utility bills – car – school – guarantees. Remember, if you are organised you will not forget to pay that bill and you will reduce your interest charges.

To blossom, weed your Notice Board at regular intervals
Set a regular date to remove anything that you no longer need

Cutie Pie
As a final note, I just had to show you this cutie pie. It’s a doorstop and will brighten any room and take you through to sunny Spring

I hope you have a LOVELY February and that you are really organised come March.

Countdown to Valentine's Day

Why wait? ...all you have to do is ask!

A beautiful pink cushion decorated with red embroidery

"WILL YOU MARRY ME?"

I have added a delicate hot pink ribbon

that you can tie your

engagement ring to if you want to

(sorry but the ring in photo is NOT included)...and you're ready.

Which lucky person is going to have this beautiful proposal as a surprise.

Who could say "no" to such a cuddly cushion?The cushion will be cherished for years to come, as an heirloom reminder of your special day. Perhaps it could be passed down the generations to come?

The cushion measures approximately 14" square and is small enough for someone to carry it around with them wherever they go, even on holiday or Honeymoon?

Congratulations to both of you!

The cushion costs £20 and is available to buy from my shop on Etsy. I will also ship by Signed for Recorded delivery to ensure that you get it on time. http://www.mrsmaddenmakes.etsy.com/

Happy Valentines Day...I hope all your dreams come true!

Happy Burns Night

Well what do you do with a Haggis?
After searching and decluttering the freezer, I found not just one but two haggis! One normal and one vegetarian. We had bought them from a fantastic deli in the Bridge Of Allen near Stirling many moons ago!!! Need I say more. And what better opportunity to cook them but for Burns Night.
So I invited my friends around, her husband being a true Scot and started to think up ways of cooking it...them!!! In the end I went onto the internet to search for recipes. And I want to share this one with you as I think it was great...yes we had it last night. It's a recipe that was devised by Mary Contini of Valvona & Crolla fame...so here goes....please do try it..it's fab:
Ingredients:
1 haggis

1 jar of sweet pickled beetroot - drained

450gm/1lb of puff pastry

salt & pepper

1 egg beaten

Method:....very easy!!!
Roll out the pastry & cutit into 4 squares.
On each square lay a helping of haggis & several slices of beetroot
Season well
Fold over & sealthe edges with the beaten egg
Glaze with egg and bake in a hot oven until the pastry s golden brown...I used 200C for 35 mins..but pls keep checking

Let me know what you do to celebrate Burns Evening and if you have any favourite recipes. it would be great to know.

We had a jolly good evening and tried something new and different. made us feel good even in the dark days of January!

Valentine Hearts

Only just under 4 weeks to go to Valentines Day and are you wondering what to buy your loved one again this year? Are you fed up with all the commercialisation of it? Would you like to give them something that will last for more than just the day and still be green?

Then why not buy them one of these willow hearts trimmed with re-cycled fabrics and decorated with a reversible fabric heart?

You can buy one of these for just £9.99 + £2.50 p&p directly from me or visit my website: http://www.mrsmaddenmakes.etsy.com/ Take a look, there may be something else that you fancy treating yourself to.

If you are local I can even arrange FREE delivery for you.

Commissions Undertaken

Happy New Year.

Well I did say that I would share with you the commissions that I had been doing up to Christmas. Sorry it's the 14th January and not earlier but yes you've guessed it, I have been hit by the dreaded flu bug and it's really knocked me for six. But I'm determined it's not going to get the better of me and have been dosing myself with lots of medicine and even better, my lovely husband has been taking great care of me too! So there are advantages!!!

Thanks to all for your orders last year and your creative ideas that lead to some fantastic products. Hope everyone liked their Christmas presents. Let me have feedback and any pictures when you have chance and if there is anything I can do for you again please just shout.

So here are a few of the fab things that I have been working on:

Who says APRONS are just for the girls???

1.The "French Waiters" wrap-around apron. This has proved very popular for both men and women. It comes with a large pocket to the front and fits any size. It's quite long too and can come in any colour or pattern combination.

2. Personalised Aprons have also proved extremely popular and fun.

This is one I have done for a very dear friend who has just started a bakery business. Take a look at her website to see a selection of her delicious cakes. Forget the new year diet and treat yourself!!! http://www.sarahsbakery.co.uk/ Take a look but hurry back and see what else I've been up to.....

The cup cake case forms the pocket and the cherry on top is padded and appliqued to give it that 3 dimensional look. Good enough to eat!! ha ha!

This one is for a man who really enjoys cooking and considers himself to be the next Naked Chef!

3. Childrens personalised aprons

It's brilliant to get the kids cooking!

These were for two great little boys who are going to be our chefs of the future! They love baking with Gran and I imagine there will be buns galore this year!

If you know of any other budding chefs and would like to get them an apron, just let me have their measurements from their neck to 3" below their knee and I will work out a cost for you depending on the number of letters in their names to: info@bevmadden.com

4. The NEW TABARD pini

The colourful cotton tabard is sooo easy to wear. It just pops over your head and hey you're ready to go....whizzing round the house....cooking or cleaning or whatever you need to do. It ties at the side and comes with 2 large pockets for carrying all you need with you. It brightens up even the dullest day and makes even the hardest and ugliest chores seem a doddle!

Talking of chores, these wonderful LAUNDRY BAGS will make your life easier and your rooms tidier. They can be personalised with anything that you want.

OOHHH SOOOO sweet.....DOLLS BUNK BED BEDDING...who'd have thought it?

The set comprises of 2 frilled reversible duvets and 2 frilled pillows together with spotty bottom sheets. Some dollies were in for treat this Christmas. Would have loved to have seen the little girls faces on Christmas morning.

Want to keep out those DRAUGHTS and SAVE MONEY on your fuel bills? Then why not invest in some of these DRAUGHT EXCLUDERS?

They can be made to any size and can co-ordinate with your existing colour scheme. Novelty doggy ones are also available.

PERSONALISED CUSHIONS

This delightful cushion was made using a piece of vintage English embroidery, appliqued with a heart, embroidered with a saying and backed with some really trendy stripey co-ordinated fabric. It's removable so fully washable too.

So as you can see December was quite a busy month. January appears to be quite busy too but before I start in earnest with all the exciting ideas I have been developing over the break, I really must tidy up, sort and organise my studio or otherwise you may find me buried under a mountain of fabric.... watch out for my next update which will help make your life run more smoothly!!

All for now

Bev