Reetsweet

reetsweet sheffield: march 10th previews - new makers on the block!

2012-02-28T03:31:00.007-08:00

There's always something new and exciting at every event we do, and March 10th in Sheffield is no exception...here's a run down of some exciting makers to keep your eyes peeled for that are either new to reetsweet, or have new work we just have to show you!

Regular Reetsweet maker Kim Lawler of Finest Imaginary has a stunning new range out, called 'The Great outdoors' inspired by the america wilderness, working in perspex and also now a lot more often in etched wood, her new work has me aching for a holiday in a log cabin somewhere:

(bear necklace by finest imaginary)

(feathers earrings by finest imaginary)

New to our events, we are also proud to be showcasing the work of Sarah Culleton - a truly original bag designer!

Sarah designs and makes limited runs of each of her bags, handmade from the finest fabrics, recycled materials and antique findings, everything we have seen in her collection is made to the highest standard with a strong emphasis on originality, quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Sarah says her inspiration comes from 'childhood memories and my lifelong passion for fashion and textiles'.

(by sarah culleton)

Another designer/maker new to reetsweet is Holly Betton from 'Death by Tea' - excellent name don't you agree?

Holly studied textile design at Nottingham Trent, and specialised in print making, she makes, designs and sells a full range of cards, textiles, ceramics and original artworks and combines playful text with her naive and charming illustrations...

(death by tea)

reetsweet sheffield: reetsweet's guide to sheffield!

2012-02-26T09:01:00.010-08:00

(vertiline in love handmade @ the nichols building)

we are very excited about our next event on sat 10th march in sheffield, and especially since we have had time to see so much more of this wonderful city as we have been out and about promoting it!

so, the bessie and i have been looking around, finding the best places to see and want to give you a little guide to the steel city of chic!!

we started out near the train station, just 2 mins walk away is the showroom an independently run cinema set in an art deco building - the films they choose are far more interesting than your average multiplex and they have a lovely eatery and bar next door - well worth staying around in sheffield for after the shops have closed!

(the view from the town centre looking up to the
iconic and now reinvented park hill)

now... as you walk up the hill from the station there's obviously the millennium gallery, not only has it got some excellent exhibits on all year round, they have a great design shop - pop in there, then head on up into the winter gardens (basically a stunning indoor garden) and go to fancie in there to get a cake we recommend the snickerlicious!!

tip: as you walk through the city look out for lots of amazing street art hidden on the side of the buildings...

into the town centre, there's the usual spots such as topshop etc, but if you walk up into the student area (just past the civic hall) you'll find a great little street called devonshire street.

we especially liked freshman's vintage - just off devonshire st - it's the first right, it is run by a really friendly guy and has really good quality and fairly priced vintage - we got some short shorts for summer! saucy!

back on devonshire street, you'll find the forum which is a bit like afflecks in manchester (only nicer), it has a cafe bar which does nice tapas (or as i like to say tap-ass!) and just inside, after you've snacked there's a shopping bit with a tattoo place, a cool independent designer/maker shop called 'don't feed the bears' selling handmade hair accessories, and handprinted tees and wallets.

there's also 'syd and mallory' an excellent vintage shop in the forum too. what we liked about it was they had a really on trend selection of stock, and they were selling their own reworked vintage which included some lovely dresses and hand studded bags.

now you've been around the town, it's best you head out on any eighty numbered bus up to eccleshall road - ask the driver to drop you at the bit near sharrowvale rd - which runs parallel to eccleshall road. it's a little street lined with vintage, cakes, antique furniture, artisan breadmakers and best of all - loads of little galleries.

(cocoa wonderland on eccleshall rd)

once you've poked around there, make beeline back on to eccleshall road and go to 'cocoa wonderland' which is about half way down - the smell of this shop is so awesome - i thoroughly recommend the hot choc as it's thick and spanish style...mmmmmmmm! you can sit in the back and have cake and drinkies or take a bag of penny sweets away!

there's also a heap of very good quality charity shops down this street and a place called 'mookau' which has nice cards and had rob ryan crockery...i had to step away! now, all you have to do to get back to the city centre is bob back on any eighty numbered bus - voila!

last but not least, there is also a great place called 'the nichols building' on the edge of the town the other side of the city, which hosts a number of vintage furniture sellers and handmade shops such as 'moonko' (one of our reetsweet makers and sellers on march 10th) and 'vertiline in love' selling everything from hand embroidered knitwear to handprinted stationery...well worth a look - i found a vintage magazine rack for £5!

(vintage @ the nichols building)

so, even if you aren't from sheffield - why not take a day trip over on march 10th visit us, and visit this thriving and creative city! thanks to everyone that has been helping promote our next event and to the lovely people of sheffield who have made us feel so welcome, expecially the bus driver who helped me when i got lost!

(vintage @ the nichols building)

reetsweet sheffield: march 10th previews

2012-02-23T13:08:00.005-08:00

I really do try to be like a mum and not have favourite reetsweeters (like not having favourite kids!) but sometimes, I just can't help telling you what my top picks of each fair are going to be...I have handpicked these two from the next Sheffield Fair for you to have a look at...

Beth Haudiquet this crafty vixen is an illustator and maker based in sheffield - working mainly illustrating cards and stationary and designing jewellery,sewn toys and accessories. She wowed us at the Corn Exchange event in Leeds last year!

Katrine Brosnan is a very original fine art graduate, she has been studying printmaking techniques over the last year and incorporates hand-drawn and hand-printed elements into her work, I got one of her pieces for christmas and was smitten!

Big love to all the makers - we will continue to preview the fair over the next two weeks leading up to the event so don't go away!

Catch them all from 11am to 5pm at The Millennium Gallery Sheffield on Sat 10th March, free entry - catch the best designer/maker fair in town!

reetsweet sheffield: march 10th previews

2012-02-21T11:39:00.000-08:00

Hello again reetsweeters!

I always have time for jewellery, don't you? Even when things are tight, I can always spare a few pennies for some nice jewellery! Purveyor of some lovely vintage look pieces is Laura from 'Laura's Lockets' who will be appearing at the March 10th event. Here's a preview of her newest stock and a bit about her...

'My jewellery making started off as a hobby and my desire to make something to wear that no one else was wearing. I’m self taught (with a little help from a few websites and books to start me off!) and my love of charms and crafting has evolved into my business Laura’s Locket Jewellery.

I live and work in Sheffield and have been making jewellery for the last 6-7 years attending many of the Sheffield-based fairs and markets and selling through my website. This tends to keeps my craft addiction at bay but after moving into my first house I am feeling the need for everything to be handmade!'

'I aim to provide a range of pretty vintage inspired jewellery often with a bit of a quirky twist. I love hunting for unusual charms and try to keep ahead of the high street chains (which is certainly a huge challenge!). This usually means spending hours trawling the internet and bead shops and of course my range is full of lockets but I try and find lots of other lovely vintage charms too. My favourites at the moment are my printed lockets and animal charms but I continue to make some of my old favourites as well...'

reetsweet sheffield: march 10th previews

2012-02-19T10:24:00.000-08:00

on wednesday me and the bessie went over to sheffield for a spot more of promoting the next event (march 10th - sheffield millennium gallery people!). we were utterly blown away by some of the hang out spots and shops we found, so much going on - a plethora of independents which is awesome to see. anyway, i'll be blogging about it as soon as the bessie gives me the photos back - and we'll give you a rundown of all the best spots to see when you are in town for our next fair!

I am delighted to present to you many new makers for the sheffield fair, including 'Darn it collective' (cool name yes?)....

'Needles and Pins at the ready DARN IT! are here to get your creative blood pumping, whether it's making baking or cheese caking we're taking craft to the next level. Hop on board...
Jen Hedley and Jilly Hargreaves formed Darn it! Collective in Newcastle in 2006 after coming together over a love of vintage fabrics, gem sweaters and mashed potato. Their craft is based around fun illustrations and textile design made to make people smile.
Jen studied Fine Art at Leeds and Barcelona and currently spends her days drawing, printing and sewing.

Jilly studied journalism at university and discovered her love of craft later in life designing clothes and homewares and coming up with mad ideas. The pair currently beaver away their hours at their sewing machines, running workshops and set designing for events and festivals...'

More to follow previewing this event - it's getting exciting!

hello sheffield! : reetsweet's spring spectacular!

2012-02-14T10:00:00.000-08:00

it was nov we last came to sheffield, it was cold, it was windy, and it was bleak outside! but inside our fair which was just awesome, some of my personal favourites were there including this lady (I think I am almost her stalker) and some of the lovely people who ran craft candy...

fast forward to spring and we are back ladies and gents! we return to sheffield in style, at the prestigious millennium gallery on saturday 10th march, we are going to be trading from 11am to 5pm upstairs in the arundel room (don't worry the reetsweet team will be there to show you!) and will have a host of goodies for you.

as featured on the facebook page, this is the very first time we will have the lovely people from 'when the music's over'....

Using vintage vinyl this married team Bea and Philip have a totally original look the their work and I am really excited about having them on board -

'We are a married couple in our 40's living and working in Worksop, Nottinghamshire. After a very successful first year selling on Folksy where we have already become one of their top 250 best sellers we would now like the opportunity to exhibit at the Millenium Gallery after enjoying previous craft fairs there, we feel this would be the perfect place to showcase our contemporary range of products which include; Desk and mantle clocks, journals and notebooks, unique rings, earrings, hairclips and cuffs for her and keyrings, cufflinks and badges for him....'

I have my eye on a few pieces! Meet you there March 10th - free entry - as always!

LIVE BLOGGING: Today's Fair at Leeds Corn Exchange Continued...

2012-02-11T07:53:00.001-08:00

(katie kitzpatrick's lasercuts)

One hour to go, catch us until 5pm at leeds corn exchange, then we return on sat 7th april...

(Kristyna Baczynski)

(fenton)

(alexia claire)

LIVE BLOGGING: Today's Fair at Leeds Corn Exchange Continued...

2012-02-11T04:46:00.001-08:00

(et respice finem)

More of our favourites from the fair today - until 5pm at leeds corn exchange - it's free entry, and prices start at just £2....

(laura shelton)

(liu)

(zinc white)

(becky hodgson)

LIVE BLOGGING: Today's Fair at Leeds Corn Exchange

2012-02-11T03:03:00.000-08:00

Morning Leeds!

Over 25 stalls of unique designer/maker stalls here today at the leeds corn exchange - until 5pm, here's a pick of the best so far:

(sophie wilson)

(finest imaginary)

(becky hodgson)

(jilmadethis)

reetsweet 2012: campaigning against crap craft

2012-02-08T11:37:00.000-08:00

Okay, it's time to level with you all, we've all been there, we've been to shoddy shops selling badly crocheted hats, or gone to a craft fair that seems full to the brim of a load of badly stitched hair accessories, falling apart christmas tree decorations etc - at reetsweet we are campaigning this year against crap craft. (If you want inspiration for what we mean, have a look at regretsy, one of the funniest things I have read in ages and you'll catch my drift.)

There are many fairs cropping up, and lots of people jumping on the crafty bandwagon in mainstream shops, but at reetsweet we will continue to book only the brightest, and the best makers - and sift through the rubbish to bring you a fair that's really worth a free visit to! Giving a much needed platform for new designer/makers in your area.

Come and see us this saturday 11th feb from 10am to 5pm at the leeds corn exchange, just a 2minute walk from briggate...not in Leeds this weekend? Then come to Sheffield next month for our next event on March 10th at the Millenium Gallery - 2 minutes from the train station...you know it makes sense!

x
reetsweet

reetsweet's tour dates!

2012-02-02T13:00:00.000-08:00

(alexia claire - leeds & sheffield event)

(when the music's over - sheffield event)

Well hello there reetsweeters!

We have two main dates we are promoting at the moment, firstly - Leeds date for your diary is next sat - feb 11th at Leeds Corn Exchange, and secondly, we are delighted to be returning to Sheffield on sat march 10th at The Millennium Gallery!

(fox bunting - sheffield and leeds events)

It's a good time to remind everyone that whilst we all know things are tight right now, our fairs are always free to attend, and prices start from just £2 - support handmade and have a great day out with us!

I am so excited about our makers at both of these events and can't wait to share them!

We at reetsweet would also like to pass on our support the the galleries in sheffield who have just had their funding slashed, please continue to visit them and show your love...

reetsweet valentine's fair: 'Et Respice Finem...'

2012-01-29T12:27:00.000-08:00

Yet another maker to introduce all our followers to for the valentine's fair in Leeds:

I have known Ms Lauren Holmes a long time and it has delighted me to see her grow into a strong and very sexily tattooed lady, and also into an amazing maker. Her range of jewellery 'Et Respice Finem...' ('Look to the end') is a very wearable and hip collection which has a broad appeal...

' My jewellery is created  using semi precious stones, silver and leather. Usually assembled by me in  the middle of the night while listening to an unofficial Game of Thrones  podcast and eating Party Rings. I'm inspired by nature, the past, the  sky, the sea, taxidermy... all manner of odd things.

I'm pleased to say that at the February Reetsweet I'll be launching the first of my Spring pieces! Expect more statement necklaces, brass, pale shades of blue and green...'

Head to her excellent blog here nightofbones.blogspot.com to see more of her life, loves and makes.

reetsweet valentine's fair: gingerbread cupcake

2012-01-24T14:04:00.000-08:00

Well all love a bit of homemade shabby chic, and new to reetsweet Kate Baker aka Gingerbread Cupcake is going to be at the Valentine's fair on feb 11th 10am to 5pm with her loveable bags and accesories...

'I make Gingerbread Cupcake in my studio at home in Leeds. I have a love for all things artistic and have painted since I was a child. After leaving my job when I had my children, I found the time to explore my creative side. I took a fashion and interiors course where I began to sew.

I discovered my passion for textiles and found that I can use my sewing machine as my paintbrush. I use appliqué and freehand machine embroidery to create my designs, using gorgeous vintage and new fabrics, buttons, beads and ribbons. Each piece is unique and most of my products can be personalised. With my fun and functional personal and interior accessories, I hope to make someone smile.'

They make the perfect gift for that special lady in your life for valentine's day!

a hopeful potter joins the reetsweet team...

2012-01-17T13:49:00.000-08:00

It is always a great pleasure (and big endeavour!) going through all the submissions for each event and picking the best - the most original, the highest quality local craft. I have always had a great respect for the art of ceramics - my mother was a huge collector when I was younger and I am sure she would love the earthy, yet chic simplicity of our newest maker...

His name is David Worsley, of Dove St Pottery and he has an excellent blog here all about his wonderful work:

' I make functional domestic ware to be used in people's homes everyday. My pottery is about combining aesthetics with functional and practical use, bringing form and glaze together into one harmonious whole. I want my pots to be accessible and affordable, so that people feel able to use them everyday without them being thought so precious that they can only be brought out when Aunty comes round - 'handmade', as part of people's normal, everyday lives.'

We couldn't have put it better ourselves...go to www.reetsweet.com for more info and times for the up and coming fairs - Dove St Pottery will be at our valentine's fair feb 11th.

the brilliant lives of reetsweeters continues...

2012-01-15T04:29:00.001-08:00

At reetsweet our aim is to promote handmade shopping - providing you the public with a cool and local alternative to mainstream high street shopping - why buy something mass made abroad when you can support british handmade by coming to an ace fair? Exactly. You'd rather get something one of a kind and super cool - some of the best makers in britain are part of our network, just look at some of the press they've been getting - well done to all!

See some of these makers and more at our next fairs - feb in leeds, march in sheffield and april in leeds...go to www.reetsweet.com for deets...

Fenton have been the darling of the blog scene of late - featured here on the print & fabric blog, and also on the beautifully designed first2print blog.

Kim of Finest Imaginary is going from strength to strength also, she has been part of a number of big fairs last season, and has secured some great press with this sunday mirror feature - her 'golden' necklace:

In more jewellery news Rowan of Kitschensink had a piece on the telly box!! On none other than Mr Rusell Kane wore her POW brooch. Nice. And to top it all off her Jezebel necklace was worn by Eliza Doolittle!

another amazing design by stephsayshello

2012-01-12T15:12:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to quick post these new flyer designs by steph baxter aka stephsayshello reetsweet's resident illustrator and designer! Check her website here. We are loving the spring colours - just the ticket in january - yeehah! Roll on 2012...

reetsweet valentines fair: preview of becky hodgson

2012-01-10T12:23:00.001-08:00

There are two things I love 1) bears and 2) illustration, so if you put the two together it's like crack for me - I'm so so excited that for our valentine's fair on sat 11th feb at the leeds corn exchange we have becky hodgson joining us - a very talented young designer and illustrator...

I'll let her introduce herself, but the bear above is part some of her newer work she showed recently at the lovely headingley arts trail...

'Bonjour! My name is Becky Hodgson. I like to illustrate, design and make a variety of things. I do enjoy drawing animals (bears in particular) and spent a good majority of my university time doing so. I have recently graduated from Leeds college of Art with a 2.1 in Printed textiles.'

And yes, below that IS a repeat pattern design of an owl with a handbag - I almost squealed at it:

Catch Becky at the next reetsweet leeds sat 11th feb from 10am to 5pm...go to www.reetsweet.com to register for our newsletter to keep your inbox updated!

Leeds preview: February fair featuring Kristyna Baczynski

2012-01-07T10:37:00.000-08:00

As we continue our campaign against crap craft, I am very proud to announce that one of my favourite illustrators will be joining us for the next event in Leeds on Sat 11th Feb.

Kristyna Baczynski is an illustrator, designer and comic book artist with a Yorkshire accent and Ukrainian blood. Self publishing and freelancing since 2008 from her studio in Leeds, she has been awarded a Northern Design Award, had her work continually and internationally published and she was the 2011 Though Bubble Artist in Residence. She is happiest when she is drawing.

See her work at reetsweet's valentine's fair sat feb 11th from 10am to 5pm - free entry at leeds corn exchange!

The great british january!

2012-01-05T10:19:00.000-08:00

Hello people!

I hope you have all enjoyed a nice festive period, and the doom and gloom of rain smacking your face with a 60 mile an hour wind isn't crushing your january buzz too much! Reetsweet is back on the scene, we have new dates for your diaries - bigger, better events, new collaborations and secret plans....

Leeds February 11th The Corn Exchange - Our Valentine's Fair
Open 10 am to 5pm, free entry

Sheffield March 10th The Millennium Gallery - Our Spring Spectacular
Open 11am to 5pm, free entry

Leeds April 7th The Corn Exchange - Our Easter Fair
Open 10am to 5pm, free entry

Makers, head to www.reetsweet.com/submissions to apply to take part, visitors - get ready as we are already amazed at the work coming through for the 2012 events - the economy may be pants, but the makers of the north are going wild with their talents!

Big thanks to everyone that has visited or taken part last year, plus all the people helping spread the word - we hope you continue to enjoy reetsweet events...in 2012!

Over and out!

merry christmas from reetsweet!

2011-12-18T08:11:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but I have had my heating all a lot lately, I have drunk my bodyweight in tea, eaten the corner shop out of biscuits and I'm ready to hibenate!

But, lo and behold, it's Jesus' birthday soon, so that will be fun, AND we are pleased to formally announce our next fair date! We will be at The Leeds Corn Exchange on saturday 11th Feb - just in time to buy your lover something special made with love! More deets to follow - we have some special news about this one!

Thanks Leeds!

2011-12-06T12:15:00.000-08:00

Wow what a great weekend reetsweet had at The Corn Exchange! Thanks to them for hosting us, all the very talented makers that showcased their work, and all the lovely customers we had!

Best quote of the day? A cool looking girl and her friends walked past the welcome desk, saying 'Oh my god - reetsweet's on! Yey!' - it's great to know we have fans! Reetsweet is now 1 year old, see you in 2012 for more crafty shenanigans! Go to www.reetsweet.com and sign up to our newsletter to stay in touch!

reetsweet leeds: selling out

2011-12-04T07:09:00.001-08:00

Fenton have been here all weekend for the first time, and this lovely bag has almost sold out - last one! We are here until 4.30pm...Leeds Corn Exchange!

reetsweet today: my tops picks from the fair

2011-12-04T04:32:00.000-08:00

(jodie caulfield - these robins have been a bestseller!)

(rowan from kitschensink is offering a surprise dip!)

Hello again reetsweeters, it's a little bit nippy, it's a little bit wet out, but, in the warm and shelter of Leeds Corn Exchange today you can bob down to reetsweet and happily spend the afternoon with us and get your christmas shopping done and dusted!

We have the marvellous tea dance co here with some ridiculously nice cakes, over 25 stalls of handmade design led accessories, art and homewares - plus, we are offering reetsweet nail art from just £1!

It's free all day - and you can even finish it all off with a gourmet hotdog at Primo's...the perfect sunday!...www.reetsweet.com

(upcycling from pipo)

(vintage fabric cushions by the hidden rose)

(button boudoir are here - oh how I love anything with an eiffel tower!)

remember we are back tomorrow dec 4th!

2011-12-03T08:35:00.000-08:00

(zinc white)

If you couldn't make it out today - brr! It has been nippy - why not bob down from 11am tomorrow for a little browse and spend? Leeds Corn Exchange - just a short walk from Briggate...

(fenton)

(debbie greenaway)

(e-creations)

live blogging from today's leeds event: leeds corn exchange

2011-12-03T06:07:00.001-08:00

(cakey times with marvellous tea dance co)

(old baubles - new life - pilfered are here today)

(pin your cards up in style with e-creations)

(lovely prints by alexia claire)

live blogging from today's leeds event: leeds corn exchange

2011-12-03T04:35:00.000-08:00

(memelou - perfect stocking fillers!)

We have over 25 stalls of unique handmade today - we're here until 5pm, or catch us tomorrow too!

(finest imaginary - awesome cards!)

(louise taylor - christmas gifts for crafters!)

(bijoux et plus - rockin' necklaces)

(christmas bunting by claudia)

live blogging from today's leeds event: leeds corn exchange

2011-12-03T03:09:00.000-08:00

(vintage home styling by claudia)

Hello folks! We you know the drill by now, follow us on twitter, facebook or watch the blog today for live updates from our event - we have a wealth of designer/maker talent here for you today, and tomorrow...at Leeds Corn Exchange - just a minute's walk from Briggate! Supprt local independent shopping this christmas!

(perfect gifts for fans of paper
cutting and silhouettes - bear follows cat)

(handmade cards by witshop)

(stunning pattern design by fenton)

see you tomorrow leeds!

2011-12-02T15:23:00.001-08:00

Bob down to the corn exchange from 10am sat, or 11am sun for some reetsweet goodness! We have many stalls - from cool jewellery, to vintage reworked homewares, amazing knits, cakes, stationery, prints and trinkets...you will not be disappointed! Check out www.reetsweet.com for more details, to view the gallery and to see what we are all about - local, cool, craft!

reetsweet leeds: ahoy there my christmas shoppers!

2011-12-01T14:49:00.000-08:00

Wow! What a great response we have been getting about our fair this weekend! Thanks to all our fans who have been in touch and for the lovely emerald street mentioning us in their weekend guide...now on to the rather serious business of who and what to expect to see...

We have a few extras up our sleeves including the lovely katy kamikaze of 'hard as' nail boutique (with us sunday only) for some reetsweet nail art, the marvellous tea dance co are with us all weekend selling festive cakery, and more makers, more talent, more handmade independent shopping, this sat and sun at leeds corn exchange....www.reetsweet.com

reetsweet returns to leeds for the final time this year - this weekend!

2011-11-30T09:30:00.003-08:00

Hello reetsweeters, it's been a busy year of craft with us - and this weekend is your final chance to grab a unique piece of handmade for your christmas list! Returning reetsweeter Debbie Greenaway - 'The imagination of lady snail' is back to tempt you into her world of fun characters, and lots of print based awesomeness with a modern twist:

'I am an illustrator and printmaker. Currently living in my hometown of Huddersfield. I have recently returned to full-time self-employment (illustration) but I am still holding on to the strings of my part-time job. My work starts out in my sketchbook and through constant doodling and story sentence writing, I try to develop characters from various things I may have seen or heard. I often take my camera and sketchbook out and about with me and draw from outside observation, overheard conversations or from my imagination.

Screen-printing is my favourite way of working and put my designs on to paper or fabric or anything else I can find, to create an assortment of items including limited edition prints, purses, stitched illustrations, badges, cards and bags. At the moment I am working on drawing people, characters with musical instruments, in the hope of creating a fictional band, some colourful images of a narrative nature and a illustrated book of sorts.'

Debbie's work has recently been showcased by Folksy! But we've known about her amazing talents for ages ;-)

reetsweet returns to leeds tji

2011-11-30T09:30:00.001-08:00

reetsweet leeds: this weekend

2011-11-28T12:20:00.000-08:00

We have a host of new and established makers for you this weekend in Leeds - we are open Saturday from 10am, and Sunday from 11am.

One of my favourite designers to emerge (she hasn't even finished her course yet actually!) from Leeds in the past year is Sophie Wilson aka Sophie in disguise. Her work is full of wit, humour, moustaches, and she loves jumpers and harry potter...

We also have Jenna back again from Pilfered - a very original designer working in the world of upcycling - taking something old - and making it useful and beautiful again! I love the ethos behind her work - but get there fast on saturday because she sells out and all her items are one of a kind!

why buy handmade? a call to arms (and local shops and events) from reetsweet...

2011-11-28T09:15:00.000-08:00

I still meet a lot of people (young and old) who don't really 'get' what handmade is all about, and why businesses like reetsweet and other great fairs and events do what we do, or why handmade shops sell what they do.

We generally find once you've seen one of our events - you get it, but in case you haven't - here's a guide to why you should buy handmade this christmas:

You buy something unique - handmade with care - not made in a huge foreign factory

You support local businesses - keeping retail going in this difficult time - not the big retail outlets

You support local artists and makers to continue refining their work, keeping talent going

Art markets provide a great stepping stone for new business - vital in these times when rents are going up and shops are closing

Your support keeps creative people in your area - rather than going down to Old Landan

We have our next event in Leeds this weekend, and I will be posting lots of previews this week to tempt you in. Come and see what the handmade revolution is all about - buy handmade, and buy local this christmas!

reetsweet

what have you bought today so far sheffield?

2011-11-27T07:09:00.000-08:00

Lots of prints flying our of the fair, plus these from trufflepiglet - boxes of beautiful handmade chocolates for just £5!

(awesome prints & mugs by katrine brosnan)

Super sweet picks from reetsweet sheffield today!

2011-11-27T05:31:00.000-08:00

Some more treats for you!...

(joey ramone)

(elodie g)

(carla murdoch)

(hayley wright)

Top picks from today's sheffield fair - come see us for your christmas shopping!

2011-11-27T03:59:00.000-08:00

Hello!

As promised, we are live blogging a bit today - and posting some of the top picks from the makers of sheffield here today at the millennium gallery - we are up the escalators in the arundel room - it's free - and we are just opening up shop for the day!

(tape measure print accessories by alison moore)

(magpie printed leather by kathyrn sillance)

(jointed teddy by sian wheatcroft)

It's today in Sheffield with reetsweet!

2011-11-27T00:22:00.000-08:00

Morning all! Please bob down on this perfect winter's day today and see us at The Millennium Gallery Sheffield, from 12p to 4pm. We have some perfect gifts 100% handmade, to give to your loved ones, and are situated in The Arundel Room, just turn left and follow the signs from the top of the escalator! Free entry - as always with us! Keep an eye on the blog, facebook and twitter for live feeds from the event!

...it's beginning to look a lot like sheffield!

2011-11-26T03:59:00.000-08:00

I cannot tell you how excited and honoured we are to be hosting reetsweet tomorrow at the millennium gallery in sheffield (12pm to 4pm).

Never been before? Take a look here for guidance!... Not only are we situated at the heart of city, nestled between the stunning winter gardens and that fancy train station (LOVE the fountain), we will be by the best cake shop ever (fancie at the winter gardens), surrounded by amazing art at the gallery (come and see the exhibition next door by ian breakwell - it's beautiful)...

(debbie greenaway)

We will have an amazing selection of makers for you... Including we live here, james green, kay guccione, heather dewick will be there with her bookbinding... We will keep a few secrets for you, but we also have finest imaginary also with her awesome jewellery and stationery and lianne mellor's chinaware (stocked in liberty of london!)... We choose a range of makers from high fashion jewellery, and amazing modern leather, to artisan makers working in traditional mediums. You won't be disappointed Sheffield!

Leeds Christmas reetsweet: coming soon!

2011-11-24T14:11:00.000-08:00

As you well know we have our very first Sheffield based fair this sunday 27th Nov, but we never forget our roots, and we are taking over our usual venue in Leeds next weekend as well on Dec 3rd and 4th for a huge and very special christmas fair @ Leeds Corn Exchange...

We have a simply unmissable selection of makers for you, I am bowled over by the talent we will be having all in one room next weekend, and over the next few days I am going to be whetting your appetite, showing you some fabulous work. This will be a fair to remember!

So Leeds, we will see you sat 3rd Dec from 10am, and sun 4th Dec from 11am at Leeds Corn Exchange, as always - free entry - and over 25 hand picked stalls of amazing-ness...to keep up to date next year go visit www.reetsweet.com and sign up for our newsletter!

reetsweet's christmas at sheffield: final countdown previews

2011-11-24T13:52:00.000-08:00

I think it would be fair to say that I am a big kid, and here at reetsweet I get to let my inner child take over - the ethos behind reetsweet is about bringing a piece of handmade joy into people's lives, getting them away from the high street, buying local, handmade beautiful things!

One of my first reetsweet moments of amazement was seeing this lady's work the first time...Sian Wheatcroft of strawberry kitten; she makes utterly original toys (for big kids) that are so well made...a total joy! Sian began with the larger bears you see here, but has now moved on to making stunning jointed bears, and she also offers a range of prints, small accessories and the bear cushions. She will be at reetsweet's fair in sheffield's millenium gallery this sunday 27th with us from 12pm to 4pm...see you there!

reetsweet's christmas at sheffield: previews

2011-11-22T13:23:00.001-08:00

Another new reetsweeter, and former craft candy regular, on sunday we will be introducing you to Joey Ramone.

Joey lives in Sheffield, and has been making cute fabric brooches, bags and other accessories since 2008 which she sells from her Etsy shop. She has been a contributor of sewing projects to the magazines Sew Hip, Making Gifts and Quilt Scene 2010 and was delighted to win the Feeling Stitchy Rainbow of Stitches online contest in May 2010 with her embroidery, “Little Tiger's Orangey Celebration”.

Joeysdreamgarden.blogspot.com

Our fair this sunday runs from 12pm to 4pm at Sheffield's Millenium Gallery click here for more info...

reetsweet's christmas at sheffield: previews

2011-11-20T06:15:00.001-08:00

Here at reetsweet we try to always find new and exciting makers for our events, we are particularly excited to have this young lady next fair - Katrine Brosnan - an illustrator and printmaker based in Nottingham, Katrine studied fine art and since then has explored her love of simple line drawings and illustrations, she turns these into screen prints and lino cuts.

'I love printmaking, the smell, the presses, the plates, the thickness of the ink and all the beautiful ephemera that goes with it. I find it really satisfies my urge to make! The inspiration for my illustrations come from everyday life, visiting new towns and cities or letting my mind wander when doing the washing up. I like to draw people I see who look full of character, whether these are familiar icons or perfect strangers. I sometimes collect surreptitiously drawn or snapped images of strangers to edit into print designs later on. I have started to categorise these, for instance I have a collection of strangers I’ve seen sleeping, men on public transport with their dogs and a series of images of people at airports (airport-raits.)

I have recently finished a commission for a menswear store called LiFE in Manchester. I’ve also just completed making my own range of shiny new wooden brooches and ceramic mugs. I’m a member of Leicester Print Workshop and am often spotted showing my crafty wares at fairs and markets across the East Midlands and beyond....'

Catch her at the reetsweet in sheffield on sunday 27th nov (that's next sunday folks!). For more info see www.reetsweet.com/events.

reetsweet's christmas at sheffield: previews

2011-11-18T15:19:00.000-08:00

Did we mention we have our first event in Sheffield very soon? If you're new to reetsweet, we have a treat for you - reetsweet is no ordinary craft fair, we only select the very best original art, homewares, prints and accessories for you - all at free events. Join us at the Millenium Gallery from 12pm to 4pm next sunday - Nov 27th....Sheffield!

You will be able to meet Jonathan Wilkinson of We Live Here. We Live Here’s prints and products celebrate the buildings and scenes that define where we live. All illustration and design is created by We Live Here founder, Jonathan Wilkinson.

'Inspired by constructivist graphic design and the Bauhaus movement, We Live Here’s pared-down diagrammatical style aims to represent as much detail as is possible in just two or three colours. More recent works take the style in a new direction by attempting to create a more hyperreal image that sits somewhere between illustration and photography. "Above all I get a kick out of reimagining these unconventionally beautiful buildings in my own style. For me it gives the buildings a greater sense of importance and hopefully makes us think a little differently about them too."'

reetsweet's christmas at sheffield: previews

2011-11-16T16:40:00.000-08:00

Two more brilliant women appearing at the sheffield fair - we have a boutique accessory maker - Alison Moore - whose bright and playful designs are the perfect gift for any vintage loving woman, and then the very 'hardcore' Jessica Flinn who has a stunning range of silver jewellery including her unique concrete collection...

'Alison Moore began designing and making for the public in 2009, after a lifetime of creating. She enjoys working with tactile media; her current project being 'Kitsch and Stitch', a range of accessories made with beautiful cotton fabrics.

The designer's inspiration comes from a variety of places, from her surroundings on the edge of the Peak District National Park and memories of the six years she lived in South Texas, to old prints and ceramics.

Alison's aim, is to provide people with new products that will become treasured vintage items of the future.'

'I am Jessica Flinn, I design and make handmade contemporary Jewellery from my workshop in Sheffield, I use a variety of traditional metalwork tools; some of which are 100s of years old! I use "hardcore" metalwork techniques - think blowtorches not beads! My current collections are made from Stainless steel and sterling silver. I have four ranges in my current collections: Mosaics, Lace, Spices and finally the concrete range.

I have just over 40 pieces in my collections and these range in price from £20 - £100. I also offer a bespoke design service for one off orders. Your wish is my command!'

See these makers and more on sunday 27th nov at the millenium gallery in sheffield....free entry! For more information on our fairs and future events please go to www.reetsweet.com

reetsweet's christmas at sheffield: previews

2011-11-16T16:19:00.000-08:00

At the Sheffield fair we have two new artists to reetsweet's events - Carla and Ella. Both of these women are leaders in their field, producing modern and fashionable work using age old materirals and techniques...to produce fresh and exciting ideas. A delight!

'My name is Carla Murdoch, I am 23 years old, my craft is ceramics but I also use textiles and wood. I have been a graduate for a year from the University of Sunderland.

I recently bought a kiln and some clay to get myself back into the crafty world.

I mainly make small trinkets like buttons and pieces for jewellery.
My work is fun and sometimes humorous, I make work for people to enjoy and admire. I have been a member of a photography group for almost a year and have been using photos of animals and plants to draw into the clay, adding these images to tiles and pots.'

'Pewter is an age-old metal which is seeped in history and tradition within the metalwork industry, which as a designer and maker fascinates Ella. Working from a small workshop in Clitheroe, Lancashire, this influence and inspiration can be seen in her work and has lead to an exploration of old methods of production.

Simplicity of form is used to challenge traditional pewter ware which tends to be heavy and over embellished. Ella's interest in the history of pewter used in our homes, as well as her modern, slightly graphic edge to her designs blend to create pieces that are striking and effective. Pewter is a metal which mellows over time and develops its own patina which gives each design a new character as it is aging. This is something that doesn't just make pewter a one-off purchase but a life long investment that develops as time goes on.

Ella graduated in 2007 with First grade Honours in Designed Metalwork and Jewellery from Buckinghamshire Chilterns University. Since being introduced to pewter in 2006 and winning the Pewter Live student competition run by the Worshipful Company of Pewterers, Ella continued to work with pewter whilst at university and took this time to learn more about the metal. This love of the metal has continued and now all of her work is based on pewter and its unique characteristics...'

reetsweet's christmas at sheffield: previews

2011-11-15T12:30:00.000-08:00

(new ipad case - an amazing gift for christmas!)

Once in a while you meet someone nice, so nice, it hurts a little bit, and to top it off they are amazingly talented and so enthusiastic about craft! Meet Kay Guccione, (yes we have a bit of a crush on her) she is the owner and maker behind lilidrawspictures - she has impeccable modish style and so does her range of bags...

'At lilidrawspictures we design and produce original mod-ish accessories, ox-strong book bags, and upcycled clutch purses. Work stuff: school stuff. We do so without sweatshop labour and with environmental kindness, using old favourite materials. Become a lilidrawspictures Facebook fan - http://www.facebook.com/lilidrawspictures or @lilidraws for your Tweets!'

Meet Kay at our next fair in Sheffield on sunday 27th Nov from 12pm to 4pm...

reetsweet's christmas at sheffield: previews

2011-11-13T12:06:00.000-08:00

James Green is one of our favourite artists and has supported reetsweet from our very first fair, come and see his achingly beautiful work at the sheffield fair sunday 27th Nov...

'I'm a printmaker based in Sheffield and I specialise in linocut prints. I've been working in the medium for around eight years, and I'm a little obsessed with it. I produce prints of people, animals, landscapes and the occasional absurd dream. I've produced commissioned work for Domino Records, Paul Smith Menswear, Tramlines Festival and I also run linocut workshops, teaching people how to make prints. Oh, I've also recently produced some mugs with my prints on (with the help of Lianne Mellor), so might bring them along to Reetsweet!'

reetsweet's christmas at sheffield: previews

2011-11-13T11:30:00.000-08:00

Sheffield is diverse in it's range of makers, which has made selecting the christmas fair nov 27th so much fun for us at reetsweet....some more makers to show you at the nov fair very soon...

'Butterscotch & Beesting is a little business selling confectionery, toys and handmade bits and pieces, powered by a sprinkling of magic and an ounce or two of imagination. It’s all made, designed and illustrated by me, Camilla, but in my head it’s run by two fictitious characters called Betty Butterscotch and Bumblewick Beesting, who together own Butterstings Circus – a magical place populated by troupes of dazzlingly talented performing animals. Betty’s story is that she used to be a quite remarkable trapeze artist, until her ‘accident’ (of which she still can’t bear to hear mention), and she now sells her delicious sweets and treats in the circus sweet shop. Bumblewick, meanwhile, is a conjurer of worldwide renown and is also the proprietor of the circus’ rather special shop...'

What is very special about Camilla's work is how the original illustrations and narratives to draw you into the world of Betty and Bumblewick and their circus. Camilla's range includes magical potion kits, wands, potion bottles, confectionery, handmade ceramics, screen-printed t-shirts and jewellery, she plans to introduce more confectionery in the future, a book and....a boardgame!

reetsweet's christmas at sheffield

2011-11-13T09:50:00.000-08:00

This winter we are delighted at reetsweet to carry on the work of our friends at craft candy in sheffield and will be at the prestigious millenium gallery near the train station on sunday 27th of this month from 12pm to 4pm! For more details see our events page here.

Meanwhile, we have an incredible amount of maker talent from the next fair to preview to you right here on the blog! We are very proud to introduce hayley wright of born restless...

'Born Restless is a collection of embroidered art and jewellery, made by someone who is trying to live a little better and work a little less. Currently living in Manchester, I make most of the things you’ll see here in my bedroom at night, whilst listening to ghost stories on the radio. I’m inspired by ideas of home and memory, the occult, my regular nightmares, as well as anything else that seems like a great idea at the time.'

We love her work - it's refreshing and modern and very quirky! Check back this week for more previews...

Thank you leeds uni x

2011-11-08T11:31:00.000-08:00

Just thought we'd end a rather drizzly day with some sunny highlights from today's fair - our next event is sheffield 27th nov, and leeds corn exchange dec 3rd and 4th, see http://www.reetsweet.com/events/ for more info - now I'm off for a cuppa and some biscuits!

(yuyu)

(fox bunting)

(finest imaginary)

(jodie anna)

(rebecca slow)

See you today leeds!

2011-11-07T23:22:00.000-08:00

Head down to the leeds university today (8th nov) from 11am to 4pm for our first super student fair, featuring lots of stalls including a nail art booth, plus our free art badge giveaway - you won't be disappointed. Jil Smith will be there will her ace textiles... See you soon!

x

reetsweet

something for nothing! (and awesome too!)

2011-11-06T15:21:00.000-08:00

We at reetsweet like to give our fans a little thank you whenever we can! If you bob along to leeds university union on tuesday you will find us in the riley smith hall and we have these very fine little badges to give away on the welcome desk, designed by the very awesome matt saunders aka rabbit portal...reet sweet!

reetsweet at leeds uni: MEGA ROUNDUP WEEK!

2011-11-03T16:20:00.000-07:00

Well good evening! More bits to tempt you in to tuesday's fair at the uni....

Louise Taylor of Louise Taylor Originals is based in her home studio in Flockton, Wakefield. Where she works creating art work, gifts and stationery. Inspired by her interest in textiles mainly embroidery, focusing on hand stitch. She gathers inspiration from from around her home in Yorkshire, looking at flowers and her veggie plot! Louise explores natural forms and structures, producing abstract drawings which focus on line and form...and very charming they are!

We open at the riley smith hall 11am to 4pm Nov 8th...

reetsweet at leeds uni: MEGA ROUNDUP WEEK!

2011-11-02T15:04:00.000-07:00

So much more leeds based talent to tell you about that will be at the leeds uni fair nov 8th...

We have my lovely friend Carla aka maus haus -started in 2010 and based in Leeds she designs and makes limited edition, bags, purses, brooches and journals. She sells items across Yorkshire, Lancashire and Lincolnshire, we love her attention to detail, her humour and rich colours and fabrics...

(vintage telephone brooch by maus haus)

Then there's also miss slow - rebekah slow, who is a graduate from norwich school of art in 2008, and particularly uses vintage pieces to make new accessories...we love these hair pieces!

More to come tomorrow and friday...

it's like xfactor, kind of...

2011-11-02T07:14:00.000-07:00

So, this makes me cringe to ask, but please reetsweet fans will you vote for us in a competition? If you have recently enjoyed one of our fairs and are happy to endorse us, we are up for an award on the 'best of leeds' site here - sneak in a vote before it closes! Ta!

reetsweet at leeds uni: MEGA ROUNDUP WEEK!

2011-11-01T14:57:00.001-07:00

So, a week today on tues 8th Nov reetsweet finally hits down at the riley smith hall in the leeds university union for a special one off fair - free entry (as always!) we will be bringing you over 30 handpicked stalls of 100% handmade...so we thought this week we would have a big preview, showing you what we have to offer and what's new!

Kim from finest imaginary will be joining us with her new very hip navajo inspired wood jewellery, in the past she has always worked with a lot of plastic but I really love this collection and I am very excited to see what I'm going to get for myself!

(navajo inspired brooches)

We also have the multi talented matt saunders from rabbitportal bringing us his prints...

(matt's the cure poster - which has been
bought by robert smith himself!)

Keep your eyes peeled over the next few days for further previews!

hello leeds...

2011-10-28T12:25:00.000-07:00

something dead good at test space...

2011-10-24T11:03:00.000-07:00

Check out this amazing poster by Kristyna Baczynski! Rabbit Portal presents "Dead Good" a new and exciting show at test space. And on oct 31st - the guys will also be screening a double bill of Monster Squad and Night Of The Creeps...that evening fancy dress is mandatory but the show runs from 31st oct - 6th nov.

You can view work by the likes of Rabbit Portal, Drew Millward, Jay Cover, Luke Pearson, Kristyna Baczynski , Steven Chan, Jack Teagle, Lesley Barnes, Ubberkraft, Guy Mckinley, The Pern, Kate Prior, Muxxi, James Burlinson, Helen Entwisle, Seb Mesnard, Gemma Correll,Owen Davey and many more!!

So why not come down soak up some great art, wear a costume, and drink a beer and then snug up and watch a movie on the launch night...dead good! See you there!

leeds uni fair preview: wivwuv!

2011-10-23T13:54:00.000-07:00

I am delighted to introduce you all to 'wivwuv' a sweet and delectable jewellery label appearing at reetsweet's university fair in leeds nov 8th...

'Lineke, originally sprouting from somewhere in Africa, is a self taught designer and maker who founded 'wiv wuv creations' in 2010. Her collections include contemporary jewellery, interior decoration pieces, paper cut art and bespoke wedding stationery. Inspired by nature, literature, travelling, music and playfulness (amongst other things), she is drawn to the beautiful and unusual side of everyday life, moving her to create elegant and quirky pieces. Lineke fills her creations with all her care, attention, passion and love for design - hence the name 'wiv wuv'.

Her designs are dynamic, imagery bold yet organic, and she continuously evolves her hand-made collections with new designs, techniques and use of materials. You can find out more about Lineke & her products at wivwuv.com.'

leeds uni fair preview: fluffsstuffs

2011-10-19T14:00:00.000-07:00

On nov 8th we head to leeds uni riley smith hall (in the union!) for our first ever student fair. Can't wait! ...You've met fluffsstuffs before if you came down to our last event - their first! And after much success they return to show us some more super kawaii madness!...

Button earrings, brooches, amazing bunting necklaces, all in bright and fun designs, with many colour and style options to add a hint of fun to your day! Enjoy!

leeds uni fair preview: yuyu

2011-10-16T13:22:00.000-07:00

Appearing at the leeds university fair, Nov 8th for the first time reetsweet are proud to introduce to you yuyu...

The people behind Yuyu are Mark McKeown and Julie-Anne Hughes, both designers but with different design disciplines. Julie started her textile design journey at art school in Scotland. Over fifteen years on, having worked in top design studios in New York and London; Julie now lives in Leeds and divides her time between designing for Yuyu, teaching Illustrator to the textile students at Leeds College of Art, and most recently new mum to son Bertie.

Mark has nearly twenty years of experience in graphic and editorial design. They met back in 2004, since then Julie’s passion for surface pattern and screen-printing started to influence Mark’s everyday graphic design work. In 2007, they decided to combine their different skills and love of bold graphic prints (often influenced by the retro patterns they grew up with in the late seventies), to create Yuyu. They launched their first collection at Top Drawer in September 2008.

Nearly five years on, with a new baby and studio puss called Doris, they continue to design cards which are sold to independent retailers throughout the UK, Europe, America and Canada. They also undertake freelance commissions and licence their designs for a variety of different products.

www.iloveyuyu.com

leeds uni fair preview: jodie anna jewellery

2011-10-14T11:47:00.000-07:00

And another great exhibitor at the leeds uni fair nov 8th...

Jodie Anna works from her home studio in the small village of Carlton in West Yorkshire famous for its Rhubarb; she creates illustrations based around the idea of childhood memories.

Captivated by the idea of how an object or any image can trigger  memories and feelings of nostalgia; Jodie Anna creates illustrations  narrating some of her happiest childhood memories, such as summers spent  along the east coast to long evenings building dens, in the woods  surrounding her childhood home. She is also hugely inspired by the Great  British pastime, Afternoon tea which takes her back to Sunday  afternoons spent at her Grandmas.

Jodie Anna then develops her illustrations in photoshop to add lovely  vintage patterns to each item and to create a crisp finished image. All  illustrations are then printed onto shrink plastic and heat shrunk to  create beautiful pieces of wearable memories, which she hopes will bring  a smile to its wearer.

leeds uni fair preview: memo helen

2011-10-11T14:14:00.000-07:00

I tend to get a bit geeky around people I admire, and I have a total craft crush on this lady - helen memo - appearing at our next fair nov 8th leeds uni:

'hi there, my name is helen, my surname is entwisle and my alias is memo. i am a freelance illustrator and screen printer currently based in leeds. i graduated from norwich school of art and design in 2007 with a first class degree in visual studies. my work includes hand drawn and screen printed illustration, self-published zines, greetings cards, hand printed stationery, limited edition prints, tote bags and accessories. i put together a collaborative zine called ten fingers'

Her simple visual style, coupled with a sense of fun are quite uplifting I think, and I find her to be very original - I hope you love her too!

The reetsweet and handmade Super Fair lands soon!

2011-10-10T13:25:00.001-07:00

(a picture of one of amy's best finger puppets)

Are you ready? Cake, craft, GO! reetsweet aka me and handmade aka amy panda have joined forces for a huge, almighty craft extravaganza - Nov 8th, Leeds University Riley Smith Hall.

It's FREE! And runs from 11am to 4pm featuring over 30 one of a kind stalls - prints, jewellery, accessories, homewares, we even have a nail art stall offering quirky nail art by the amazing katy kamikaze, and the marvellous tea dance on hand with a cake fest! So, with christmas creeping up on us, it's time to make that list, add some stuff on just for yourself and meet us there! I may just wear a panda suit to celebrate. FACT.

insider info leeds: bird's yard

2011-10-10T13:05:00.000-07:00

Handmade is definitely a collaborative pursuit, and not only do we all inspire one another, but we all like to celebrate one anothers' success! I just wanted to take time before beginning the BIG countdown to the Leeds Uni fair and introduce you to Birds Yard...

Bird's Yard is a 3 floor emporium of local designers, crafts, vintage, jewellery, milliners, homewares, crafts, street wear, ladieswear designers and a hair salon.

Having just celebrated its first year in business, it recently was shorlisted in many categories in Leeds Retail Awards, and managed to walk away with Best Vintage, Best Designer and Best Jewellery, and came a close second to Harvey Nichol's in best department store.

The owner Michelle is always on the lookout for new designers, anything goes (within reason), and the quirkier the better need apply! She offers really affordable rates, and a 50% off for your first month to anybody that joins mentioning reetsweet... (just £10 per month, plus 10%sales) Get in touch with her by email michelle@birdsyard.co.uk - Or pop down to 83 Kirkgate, just near the very lovely Leeds Corn Exchange.

www.birdsyard.co.uk

a big thank you to leeds!

2011-10-04T01:35:00.000-07:00

A big shout out to everyone who took part in our fair at the weekend, especially all the customers that supported us, and a fond farewell to Kayleigh O'Mara who is bidding us goodbye as she moves down to the big smoke! See you all again in December at the leeds corn exchange on the 3rd and 4th! (if you can't wait until then we have our super student fair at leeds uni nov 8th, and the amazing sheffield fair at the millenium gallery nov 27th!)

Watch out for reetsweet.com launching shortly too!

LIVE BLOGGING SUNDAY: Today's fair

2011-10-02T04:43:00.000-07:00

LIVE BLOGGING SUNDAY: Today's fair

2011-10-02T03:59:00.000-07:00

Carrie Ann Coupe brings more of her intricate and delicate designs to reetsweet's fair - from prints to useful paper goods!

LIVE BLOGGING SUNDAY: Today's fair

2011-10-02T03:53:00.001-07:00

Karen Lewis is here from blueberry park with her bright and cheerful handprinted textiles:

LIVE BLOGGING SUNDAY: Today's fair

2011-10-02T03:19:00.000-07:00

More handmade than you can shake a stick at! Shelley Warne's lovely upcycled accessories:

Amazing knitting alert! Laura Shelton's Folky Boutique bring you knitted hair bands with bows on - c'est super geek chic!

LIVE BLOGGING SUNDAY: Today's fair

2011-10-02T02:51:00.000-07:00

Jil Smith returns with her magical cushions, badges and homewares - stuffed with love:

LIVE BLOGGING TODAY: reetsweet sunday!

2011-10-02T01:19:00.001-07:00

Hello! We will be continuing our coverage of the reetsweet fair today at leeds corn exchange as we open from 11am - come down! As always - it's free entry and you can even stop for a gourmet hotdog in primo's and look around all the great new shops opening at the corn exchange!

TODAYS WEATHER AT REETSWEET'S FAIR:

2011-10-01T05:08:00.000-07:00

LIVE BLOGGING FROM TODAY'S FAIR:

2011-10-01T04:48:00.000-07:00

nellie & clara by Helen Masding - beautifully handcrafted customised bunting, luxury scarves and vintage style patchwork blankets:

WE LOVE THIS AT REETSWEET'S FAIR TODAY:

2011-10-01T02:47:00.000-07:00

Bee Anchor aka Bianca Prince's cool and quirky accessories featuring birds, bows and cherries:

Pineapple Princess by Katy Kamikaze - a bright selection of kawaii inspired homewares, accessories and jewellery:

LIVE BLOGGING FROM TODAY'S FAIR:

2011-10-01T02:38:00.000-07:00

Naoco's Art by Naoko Greenhalgh - stunning handmade felted toys and gifts - we love love love:

Gorgeous handmade boxes and printed goods by Naomi Southon - perfect for christmas gifts:

LIVE BLOGGING FROM TODAY'S FAIR:

2011-10-01T02:14:00.001-07:00

We have some amazing craft on show today at the corn exchange, we love this nautical themed necklace made from a vintage coin by Louis Brown...

Reetsweet is on! NOW!

2011-09-30T15:39:00.000-07:00

From 10 am today and 11am sunday at Leeds Corn Exchange we will be blogging live from reetsweet's autumn fair (doesn't feel like autumn with this weather does it? tsk!) you will find only the very best handmade handpicked for your perusal!

Entrance is free, and you'll find prices starting from as little as £2 for a little piece of handmade loveliness - keep in mind as well that this will be Kayleigh O'Mara's (work pictured above) last reetsweet as she is moving down south..Nooooo!

the final countdown: reetsweet in leeds this weekend!

2011-09-29T13:21:00.001-07:00

We also have the amazing Karen Lewis of Blueberry Park in attendence this weekend, exhibiting her gorgeous handmade printed homewares and textiles. She even makes an amazing range of kits to make your own handmade toy...christmas isn't long away and this is the perfect time get one for yourself and a friend too!

Come and see us tomorrow from 10am and 11am on sunday at Leeds Corn Exchange!

the final countdown: reetsweet in leeds this weekend!

2011-09-29T12:36:00.000-07:00

We always like to keep you a little in the dark about each event, just to add a little excitement we don't tell you about everyone coming to exhibit...but...we just have to give you a tease with some works from Naoko Greenhalgh a japanese felt artist living and working in england who is appearing with us this weekend. Naoko produces the most amazing toys that remind me of playskool. Love love love:

a little bit of what you fancy...the alternative comics fair!

2011-09-24T14:48:00.000-07:00

Little bit of news on the grapevine for you! Our favourite bar in Leeds is hosting the 3rd Leeds Alternative Comics Fair! Saturday 1st October in A Nation of Shopkeepers, Leeds, just behind the Leeds City Art Gallery.

Featuring the best Northern, alternative comics  makers, print-makers and illustrators, who will be selling their wares! 

Don’t like comics? There’ll be lots more on offer, such as craft wear, badges, art and music.

This event’s guest list includes old friends such as Steve Tillotson, Hugh 'Shug' Raine, Gary Bainbridge, Andy Waugh, Helen Memo (a reetsweeter!)and many more...

The event will run from 12 noon until 5pm and is FREE to enter! So please do go up after visiting reetsweet and see them at the top of town - there are some very talented people to be seeing there!

Find them online at leedsalternativecomics.wordpress.com, Facebook search “Leeds Alternative Comics” or follow @leedsaltcomics

october fair preview: rhys hale

2011-09-23T11:49:00.000-07:00

Another new reetsweeter to proudly introduce to you is Rhys Hale - a Yorkshire-born digital illustrator, who sells contemporary art-prints, cards, badges and stickers...

'Having limited resources while travelling the world the last few years, he is firing on all cylinders to get his own studio and establish himself as a bright new local artist. His partner in craftiness is Juliette Daum, a girl so adept with a sewing machine that to paraphrase Peggy Lee, she could make a dress out of a feed bag. A hatter and bag lady extraordinaire who likes to use natural fabrics and also material from recycled clothes...They've rocked craft markets in the US, Germany, France and England, and have recently settled in Yorkshire to spread their arty brand of love.'

... and now they are going to be joining us on Oct 1st and 2nd (next weekend guys!) at Leeds' Corn Exchange for reetsweet's autumn fair...!

oct fair preview: omg i love you fluffstuffs!

2011-09-18T04:06:00.000-07:00

FluffsStuffs is the brainchild of Rosanna Brooks, and her range of accessories has a unique indie and kawaii feel, she has been featured in Elle Maagazine France, Make Jewellery Uk, NEET and Quick and Crafty! (to mention just a few!) You can follow her on facebook here.

To see her work in person, and buy some goodies - get down to Leeds Corn Exchange in two weeks on Oct 1st and 2nd...see you there!

oct fair preview: new friends!

2011-09-18T03:40:00.000-07:00

Here at reetsweet we are always looking for new crafty talents, and are proud to introduce to you Natasha Kidd - aka 'theknittingkidd' knitter extraordinaire!

'I am a knitter with a serious case of the 'knitting bug' interested in creating, making, colour, texture and all things handmade.

I design and hand-knit unique and quirky felted bags. My bags come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colours, with embellishments including knitted toadstools, mushrooms, flowers and other flora, fauna and buttons. Alongside bags I make knitted and felted purses, brooches, pencil and laptop cases. Most recently I have started to develop a range of small knitted toys. All products are made with high quality wool.

I have been knitting for about a year and a half after a random knitting lesson with my mum one Christmas. Since then I haven't stopped knitting and I have been selling my wares for about a year, first to friends and family and since April 2011 I have started selling at craft and handmade fairs.

I studied an Art and Design degree at Leeds Metropolitan from which I graduated in 2003. I have always been interested in making work including sculpture, model making, animation and drawing and painting. I have found my passion in knitting and textiles.'

http://www.knittingkidd.co.uk/

October's reetsweet on the 1st and 2nd will also showcase the work of Memelou - Michelle Gemmel! Her charming designs are the perfect antidote to the nights drawing in...

'Michelle Gemmel has been a designer for many years. She studied textile design at York St john University. After graduating she worked for large companies designing Underwear, swimwear, nightwear and housewares but most recently became a freelance designer. Michelle has always been in love with surface pattern and decided to follow her dream and design patterns all day long! She also now has the time to be more creative and has decided to pursue her love of craft. She loves making quirky, fun purses and printed tote bags as well as cards and other nic naks. Everything is handmade and designed (with love) in Michelle's micro studio in Leeds- it's really that small!'

http://me-melou.blogspot.com/

oct fair preview: the usual suspects!

2011-09-11T04:51:00.000-07:00

We have a few regulars at reetsweet who appear now and again at our fairs, we consider these folk to be our vip's - and they represent the very best of handmade, and what reetsweet is all about! Let us introduce you to a few!...

Jil Smith is a very talented textiles artist, using beautiful vintage style fabrics with super cute handrawn characters, she creates homewares including cushions, decorations, badges and all kinds of fabric wonderment! Recently she has been delighted to get stocked in the mecca of all arts and crafts shops in leeds - at The Bowery, Headingley...she continues to sell out of many items at our fairs despite her ever growing amazing selections of stock!

Kayleigh O'Mara is a one-off! This adorable little lady has a quirky take on the world, illustrating in a sketchy, childlike style that is totally accessible and loveable and has some big fans! Badges, prints, cards - you name it - you can own a little bit of these cheerful, wistful little pieces for as little at £2 for the badges! And she tells me for October's fair she has some new works! Woop!

Heather Dobson has a knitting obsession! If you have a wee one in the family, or just like me, love a nice toy that takes you back to your childhood then you need to make a beeline for this lady's stall! She sold out of many of the 'Amigurumi' she creates last fair - you can buy cuddly toys and toy rattles as well and they are made with such attention to detail and love!

You will find all these amazing folk - and more, at our next fair October 1st and 2nd at Leeds Corn Exchange! x

reetsweet welcomes nellie and clara to yorkshire this october!

2011-09-04T13:04:00.001-07:00

On Oct 1st and 2nd we take over the Leeds Corn Exchange once again, for a two day extravanganza of cool craft...nellie and clara will be appearing for the first time and we wanted to introduce you...

nellie and clara were the childhood pet names of two sisters - and everything sold by nellie and clara handmade by just one person - Helen, the eponymous nellie. Helen is fresh from 'escaping' her after ten years in London for a new life in rural West Yorkshire - so this isn't just her first reetsweet but also nellie and clara's first Yorkshire venture!

''My mum made most of our clothes when we were small and I learnt sewing from her at a really young age. I’ve always loved it and bought a sewing machine of my own as soon as I moved away from home (it’s still going strong more than ten years later!). I’ve also never been able to walk past a charity shop without popping in and have spent many, many happy hours rummaging round vintage fairs and car boot sales.

“nellie & clara combines my love of making with passion for sourcing vintage and pre-loved pieces – from the quirky china plates I make into cake stands, to the beautiful vintage Laura Ashley fabrics that are dotted round my patchwork quilts.

“What nellie & clara is best known for though is beautiful handmade, personalised bunting. This came about when most of my friends got pregnant within a year of each other – there were a lot of babies to find presents for! I sourced some gorgeous, durable cotton fabrics and created bunting with the baby’s name appliquéd on.

“I was absolutely floored by my friends’ reaction – I’ve always been ludicrously meticulous and get a lot of pleasure from ensuring everything I make is perfect, and it turned out that I’d inadvertently created something far better quality than that available in the shops. Friends of friends started putting in orders and the bunting is now a staple of nellie & clara! Visitors to reetsweet Leeds will be able to see some samples for themselves and choose from 24 fantastic fabrics for their very own personalised bunting.”

ms. devall comes to reetsweet this oct!

2011-08-30T13:53:00.000-07:00

Jade Devall is a new reetsweet find, a Designer and Illustrator currently creating a lovely range of kitchenware, textiles and gift cards. Working from her studio in Staffordshire she brings you designs that are innovative and beautiful...

''All my life I have enjoyed the simple things like going for afternoon tea, riding my bike down to the park and cooking 'til my hearts content (or at least until I couldn’t eat anymore!). I like to gaze out of my studio window and draw objects which then become narratives. I love going to vintage shops, charity shops and flee markets which often are great source of inspiration.

My ranges of illustrations are quirky and imaginative and are all about the simple things in life that make me happy. I studied BA (HONS) Textile Design-Print at Birmingham University and whilst studying I sold vintage chinaware at fairs across the Midlands which gave me inspiration to go on and design my own chinaware and textiles. From all this I have now developed and designed a fully functional range which I hope you will enjoy and love.''

Jade will take centre stage at our next event the weekend of Oct 1st and 2nd - don't be late leeds!

...stop! COMPETITION TIME!

2011-08-24T11:46:00.000-07:00

It's weds and we are feeling generous at reetsweet HQ ...now MC Hammer likes a dance..and you will be dancing too if you win our competition! We have a mega stash of awesome crafts to give away to one lucky person...all you have to do is 'like' us on facebook...HERE and we will be picking a liker (?) on the day of the next fair - Oct 1st - at random to win!

October Fair Preview: Leeds Corn Exchange Oct 1st & 2nd...

2011-08-22T15:12:00.000-07:00

Hello again! So, it's a little over a month until our next event - at the Leeds Corn Exchange on Oct 1st and 2nd - free entry as always!

We are very pleased to announce some new crafters for you, firstly we have....'KitschenSink'...

'The KitschenSink idea was born in 2004. After a brief stint in teacher training, Rowan found herself unemployed and in need of a new challenge. Window shopping in the boutiques of Lincoln, she was astounded by the prices of simply designed and badly made jewellery. Coupled with spending a lot of time selling old possessions on eBay in order to survive, she saw an opportunity. She made a bracelet from Lego she swiped whilst babysitting and listed it for 99p. The auction ended at £15. But it's only since 2007 that KitschenSink has taken things full throttle. After selling out at a craft fair, Rowan thought it was about time she sold online as well, and formalised things a little more…

…And here we are today. KitschenSink jewellery and accessories are the result of quality time with Grandma, a fascination of colourful branded toys, and a desire to re-purpose mass-produced materials into handmade, wearable fashion treats....'

Meet KitschenSink's Rowan at the next fair - her very first reetsweet!

it's almost autumn..

2011-08-17T11:47:00.000-07:00

(by kitschensink)

I'm not really a huge fan of summer, the pressure of getting my pasty pins out in the sun and having to work when it's too hot all make me a bit resentful of the whole thing (though I'm sure it's ace if you are off work and it's sunny!) - but I love autumn! As we head into the middle of august, our next fair isn't until the beginning of oct but we have so many new artists and makers to show you, plus more cakey goodness from the marvellous tea dance co, that I couldn't resist a bit of an update. So, the dates for your diary - oct 1st and 2nd at Leeds Corn Exchange...and a sneaky peeky...

(louise taylor originals)

reetsweet's events are nearly 1 year old!

2011-08-14T10:14:00.000-07:00

hello friends!

just a quick update from reetsweet as we come up to our 1st birthday! we have a few dates for your diary this autumn...

firstly, our regular fair at leeds corn exchange returns on oct 1st and 2nd, and in dec on sat 3rd and 4th...then for the first time we bring our fairs to the leeds university union on tues 8th Nov at the Riley Smith Hall!

secondly, and very excitingly - we have our first fair at our new venue in sheffield - reetsweet arrives in style on sunday 27th nov at the millenium gallery! all our events are free to attend, we are always bringing new talent through as well, so no fair will be the same and you will always see new and exciting works!

take care reetsweeters and watch this week as we give you the autumn stallholder previews!!

xxx

thanks for a nice weekend!

2011-08-07T12:25:00.000-07:00

Thanks Leeds for hosting one of our best fairs yet! Check it all out here lots of new and established stallholders, and cake, and leeds pride on! We all had a great time! Special thanks to Lianne Mellor, James Green and everyone from Zinc White and to all the shoppers who came out despite the drizzle this morning - see you next in October on the 1st and 2nd x

it's upon us! reetsweet's summer extravaganza!

2011-08-05T14:24:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow and sunday, at Leeds Corn Exchange we bring you a cupcake fuelled extravaganza of uber cool crafts! We open from 10 am tomorrow, and 11am on sunday, and are running a competition to win work by some of our artists and makers...get down on it!

have we mentioned the next fair THIS WEEK!?

2011-08-02T14:59:00.000-07:00

Hello, final preparations are underway for one of our biggest and best fairs yet this weekend in leeds at the corn exchange, saturday and sunday! Woo! Free entry as always, and over 20 stalls of unique indie crafts! One of our regulars Jil Smith of Jil made this has these amazing new textiles to entice you!

introducing...this saturday's reetsweet!

2011-08-01T13:11:00.000-07:00

(the vintage jewellery box)

(julie cunningham)

Two more reetsweeters to keep an eye out for - Julie Cunningham brings us her unique textile jewellery and scarves, she also has some amazing knitwear if you're thinking ahead for xmas and winter! Plus, Beky from The Vintage Jewellery Box returns with her lovely easy to wear pieces for every stylish girl!

We are open from 10am to 5pm sat, 11am to 4.30pm sunday at Leeds Corn Exchange...