CLAIRE PULFORD
Posie and Marmalades
Tell us a bit about you and your crafty business!
I am 42, married and have a little boy of 12 and a mad cat called Stitch. I studied fashion at college (which does feel like a very, very long time ago!) and I have always loved drawing and art.
My mum introduced me to cross stitch. I later began making my own designs which I then decided to try and sell. I tried some craft fairs and then a few years ago I came across Etsy and decided to give it a go.
My business, Posie and Marmalades, is named after some characters I drew: a little girl and her ginger cat. I sell many things including cards, keyrings, embroidery hoop art and download charts.
What inspires you design-wise about Christmas?
I love all the traditional Christmas things – snowmen, twinkle lights, Father Christmas – and I try to make them into something a little quirky or cute.
Do you have any new designs planned for this Christmas?
I have ideas for pendants, cuff bracelets and bags and I’m also thinking of designing some bigger download charts.
What stitchy presents are you hoping to make?
I do make Christmas cards, but as I am constantly stitching designs for my shop I don’t usually end up actually making anything for anyone as presents!
What’s your favourite part of the festive period?
We have a little Christmas section in our DVDs at home which we watch every year to get us into the festive spirit. I really enjoy doing that and also the traditional Christmas lunch and living off leftovers, crackers and cheese for the week after the big day.
What are your dreams for your business in 2018?
I would just like more regular sales. The excitement when someone buys something from me is huge and a great review makes me feel amazing. Also an eight-day week so I had more time to stitch and create would really help my business too!