Star Letter

Happiness in a hat

One hundred little hats later, I have several happy and excited grandchildren. I am not an avid knitter, but I thoroughly enjoyed making these, featured in the November 2018 issue. Every time I see them, they make me smile. Sally Haylock, by email

Standing the test of time

My parents were married in 1918, and one of Mum’s favourite presents that year was Mrs Beeton’s cookery book. Over the years, we have tried many bought and home-made pudding recipes, but have invariably gone back to Mrs B. The book is now battered and worn, with a plastic cover to keep the brown pages together. However, the puddings still taste lovely. Pat Westley, Norfolk

Celebration of the sun

I love the mixture of craft, nature and sewing that LandScape offers: I read every single page. With last year’s hot summer, I was able to pick a sunflower going to seed and make a heart table decoration, inspired by the ideas in the September 2018 issue. I am busy tidying up my sewing room in preparation for many more craft projects in the future. Jane Bassling, France

Creating a sense of winter

I live in a small country town in South East Queensland, Australia, so when I saw the snowy scenes and Christmas greens in the December 2018 issue, it gladdened my heart. We are in a drought here: our grass is brown and crisp, our gardens dying, and summer is in full swing. Here are a few craft pieces inspired by past issues of LandScape, including a knitted owl, with feathers tucked under his wings; candles in pots with greenery, and a bark-covered tin which can be used for a vase. Thank you for bringing some delightful craft and beautiful frosty gardens to refresh my eyes and soul in Australia. Lyn Wetzig, by email

Galaxy of shining stars

As an avid reader of LandScape magazine, I was so excited to see your wire star creations in the December 2018 issue. The materials were quickly gathered, including a perfect silver birch log from my husband’s prized log pile. My daughter, niece and two great-nephews were cordially invited to a day of making stars. We had so much fun. The younger helpers were given a sparkling pipe cleaner instead of wire so they could join in. The finished stars were a centrepiece for this year’s fireplace decorations. I am looking forward to future craft ideas. Julie Charters, Staffordshire

Memories of a tricky climb

Your feature on Lud’s Church in the October 2018 issue took me back 50 years to my rock-climbing days and an expedition I made with my climbing companion, Keith. I was leading an ascent when I saw a walking party on the path below. Two ladies stopped close to Keith, looked up at me, and said something before continuing on their way. I reached the top, and when Keith reached me, I asked what had passed between them. He told me that one had said: “I hope he doesn’t fall on me.” I did not, but I do remember that the top of the climb involved negotiating and trying, unsuccessfully, to avoid a mouthful of sandy topsoil, which gave rise to the quip: “You can tell a rock climber by the way he grits his teeth.” Thank you for an enjoyable magazine; the pork chop, cabbage and apple recipe was delicious. Mike Wood, by email

A flock of cosy companions

I thought you would like to see my ‘knitted flock’, from the pattern in the March 2018 issue. I have received lots of compliments and am busy knitting more, which I will use as presents for family and friends, as well as a local charity event. The knitting pattern was very easy to follow. I look forward to future projects. Julie Haslam, Derbyshire

Gesture unleashes creative talent

I often help my 91-year-old neighbour, Wendy, by taking her dog for a walk around the beautiful village of Kingsland in Herefordshire while admiring the stunning countryside and wildlife. After discussing our picturesque village one day, Wendy showed me your magazine, which she has been subscribing to for some time and which had initially been given to her as a gift from her son. I am so grateful to Wendy for introducing me to such a wonderful and inspirational magazine. I particularly enjoy the wildlife photography and craft ideas. The April and May 2018 issues included articles about rabbits and red kites, which I often see while walking the dogs. This inspired me to start a painting class. I have painted a picture of Wendy’s dog too. I am really looking forward to reading LandScape again this year and will continue to be inspired to develop my own creativity. Sue Paton, by email

Less work, more enjoyment

I only have a small garden consisting of lawn, borders and a patio, but I try to make it as colourful as possible. I start early in the year, planting tubs, pots and baskets, alongside weeding and feeding, scrubbing the patio and spraying everything for greenfly. I find it very time-consuming for a working single mum of three. By summer, my little corner of the world looks stunning; full of vibrant colours and fragrant scents, but I do not often have time to enjoy the fruits of my labour. This year, I am going to reduce the number of containers and invest in colourful plants that will come up year after year. I love the inspirational gardens that LandScape features, so this year I am going to really enjoy our garden and not just work in it. Ilze Skujina, Ceredigion

Protection for the environment

I love receiving LandScape through the post and wondered if it could be wrapped in a biodegradable plastic? It is such a lovely read each month. Ruth Weedon, by email