#SBS Event

March 2, 2026 | Uncategorized

Another incredible day at the SBS Event 2026.

Thank you to Theo Paphitis and the amazing @thesbs_crew for organising the brilliant theme for the day of Resilience Rocks.

70% of SBS winners have been running their business for over 4 years, that is resilience.
72% are feeling optimistic for 2026, that is resilience.
60% grew their turnover in 2025, that is resilience.
54% are sole traders, that is resilience.

A special shout out to Tash from Rubba Bubba for being my wonderful plus 1 again.

Thank you to Scarlet Impressions for the gorgeous glass bead bracelet and good luck with your new business The Viking Glassmaker.

Tiffany Budd for the beautiful book mark that I will be using in my journal.

Bare Cards it was fabulous to meet you in real life and thank you for the cute card too.

Ask Rachel UK for the huge hug and for being a true queen of awesomeness.

Mel Langton Art for your amazing art work and including me in it.

Remember talent is grown not born and as Katie Piper said “healing over hate”.

What Is The SBS Event?
In the UK, the “SBS Event” refers to the Small Business Sunday (#SBS) Annual Event, a major networking and educational conference founded by retail entrepreneur and former Dragons’ Den star Theo Paphitis.

This year’s event took place on February 20, 2026, at the ICC in Birmingham.

The event is an invite-only gathering for winners of the Small Business Sunday award. Every Sunday, Theo Paphitis selects six small businesses that post about their brand using the hashtag #SBS. These winners then gain access to the annual event, which serves as a massive growth platform, plus smaller annual Bootcamps at various destinations around the UK.

Key Highlights of the 2026 Event
The 2026 theme was “Resilience Rocks!”, focusing on how SMEs can navigate economic uncertainty and digital transformation.

There was also the first Live Pitch Competition, in partnership with NatWest, three finalists pitched live on stage for a share of a £10,000 prize fund and high-profile mentoring.

Networking & Mentoring: Over 1,000 entrepreneurs attended to meet with industry experts from partners like Google, DHL, and Ryman.

The Certificate Ceremony: A rite of passage for every new winner is taking a professional photo with Theo Paphitis while receiving their official #SBS winner’s certificate.

What is the Small Business Sunday Award?
The Small Business Sunday award (commonly known as #SBS) is a prominent UK business initiative created by retail entrepreneur and former Dragons’ Den star Theo Paphitis.

Launched in 2010, the award is designed to give small businesses a free platform to boost their visibility, credibility, and networking opportunities. It has since grown into one of the UK’s leading small business communities with over 4,500 winners.

How It Works
The award isn’t a traditional trophy-based competition; it’s a weekly social media event.

The Entry Window: Every Sunday between 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM (UK time).

The Platforms: You can enter via X (Twitter), Instagram, or LinkedIn.

The Action: Business owners post a pitch about their business, tagging @TheoPaphitis and using the hashtag #SBS.

The Selection: Theo personally reviews the entries and hand-picks six winners every Monday night at 8:00 PM.

What Winners Receive
Winning #SBS is can be a “game-changer” for your business due to the following perks, but you do need to engage and make the most of the networking opportunities:

The Repost: Theo shares the winning businesses with his combined social media following of over 800,000, leading to a massive spike in traffic and followers.

The #SBS Badge: Winners get an official digital badge to display on their websites and marketing materials, which acts as a “seal of approval.”

The Exclusive Network: Access to a private community and Facebook group of thousands of other winners to share advice and collaborate.

The Annual Event: An invitation to the #SBS Winners’ Event in Birmingham, where winners receive a physical certificate from Theo, attend workshops, and hear from high-profile guest speakers. Past speakers include Deborah Meaden, Sara Davies, Stacey Solomon, Katie Piper and experts from business like Google, Tik Tok, Ryman, Natwest, Robert Dyas, SumUp and Hakim Group.

Tips for Winning
Since thousands of businesses enter each week and only six win (a success rate of roughly 0.8%), competition is fierce; I recommend:

Consistency: Many winners enter every single Sunday for months (or even years) before being picked. It is a great free advert for your business each week. You can pitch the same wording or change it up.

Personality: Theo looks for passion and a clear “sell”, don’t just list services; tell your story.

Professionalism: Having a high-quality, functional website is a prerequisite.

Visuals: Use engaging images or videos of your products/services to stand out in the feed.

New for 2026: Theo Paphitis recently launched a new #SBS Small Business Award for Women in Business in partnership with the Enterprise Vision Awards (EVAs), specifically to celebrate female #SBS winners who have shown significant growth.

This was my Winning Post in 2023:
Hi, @theopaphitis. My youngest son is autistic and was diagnosed with a rare lymphoma in 2016 when he was just 14 years old. I gave up my full-time paid employment to become his full-time carer and my crafts were vital to my mental health. I decided to start selling them online in 2017 as a therapy and for the extra income we so desperately needed at such a difficult time in our lives. I absolutely love my creative small business and thankfully my son is now in remission so now is the time for me to grow my passion for sustainable living and the slow fashion movement. Being a part of the amazing #SBS community would help me to expand to help other like minded eco-conscious people. SarahLouCrafts.co.uk

After my win I was featured in the South Wales Guardian:

https://www.southwalesguardian.co.uk/news/24168739.sarah-lou-crafts-recognised-dragons-dens-theo-paphitis/

Are you tempted to enter?
Have you ever entered the SBS competition? If you haven’t, I encourage you to try, and if you have won, I would love to hear your experience too.

When I won the SBS award on 18 September 2023, I went into a major imposter syndrome moment of feeling completely unworthy for winning, but being a part of the amazing SBS community has helped my confidence and the other amazing small business winners are inspirational. The incredible Annual Event hosted by Theo and meeting him to collect my certificate was unreal, and I totally fluffed speaking to him on the day. The Facebook group is full of daily help and support for all things small business riding the lows and celebrating the wins together.

It is definitely worth entering every week, even if you don’t win as it is great exposure for your business.

You can read all my other posts at https://buyindie.co.uk/store/sarahloucrafts/blogs/

You can also sign up to my SLC Club newsletter where you will get a special 15% off discount code that doesn’t expire plus exclusive access to pre-launches, behind the scenes news and special offers. Sign up here. subscribepage.io/QffPBo

Mother’s Day Gift Guide

February 4, 2026 | Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Mother’s Day Magic: Thoughtful Gifts from Buyindie 2026.

Mother’s Day is just around the corner (Sunday, 15th March 2026 in the UK), and what better way to celebrate the amazing mums, step-mums, grandmas, and mother figures in our lives than with a truly unique and heartfelt gift? This year, let’s skip the generic high street offerings and discover some fabulous finds from independent makers and small businesses on the beautiful Buyindie platform.

Buying indie isn’t just about finding a special present; it’s about supporting UK small businesses who are passionate creators and injecting a little bit of love back into the community. So, grab a cuppa, get comfortable, and let’s explore some gorgeous gift ideas.

Brighten Her Morning: Sunflower Coasters by Sarah Lou Crafts
If your mum is the type who can’t start her day without a proper brew, why not give her a “patch of sunshine” to rest her mug on? These vibrant sunflower coasters by Sarah Lou Crafts are a standout favourite on Buyindie.

Lovingly handmade, each coaster brings a burst of cheerful colour to any coffee table or bedside stand. They aren’t just practical for protecting surfaces; they are miniature works of art that brighten your home. It’s a thoughtful, “just because” gift that will remind her of your appreciation every time she sits down for a quiet five minutes.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/sunflower-coasters-with-storage-pot/

A Touch of Nature: Hummingbird Stained Glass by Joy Of Glass
If your mum is the type who loves to watch the birds from her kitchen window, she will love the Hummingbird Flower Stained Glass Suncatcher from Joy Of Glass.

This isn’t just a piece of décor, it’s a beautiful display of traditional craftsmanship. Hand-cut and soldered with care, the vibrant glass catches the British sunlight (when it decides to appear) and scatters dancing colours across the room. It’s a timeless, elegant gift that brings a bit of the garden indoors all year round and is perfect for adding a splash of joy to her favourite sunny spot.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/hummingbird-flower-stained-glass-suncatcher-ring-handmade/

The Star of the Show: The Gemstone & Silver Heart Bar Necklace by Silver Wren and Oak
If you are looking for a piece that perfectly balances elegance with a personal touch, look no further than the Gemstone Bead and Silver Heart Bar Necklace by the talented Silver Wren and Oak.

This isn’t your average high-street jewellery, it’s a delicate, handcrafted masterpiece that sits beautifully against the collarbone. Featuring a sleek sterling silver bar adorned with a dainty heart charm and accented by your choice of vibrant gemstone beads, it’s a wonderful way to represent a birthstone or simply her favourite colour. Whether she’s dressing up for a Sunday roast or keeping it casual, this necklace adds a sophisticated sparkle that she’ll cherish for years to come.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/gemstone-bead-and-silver-heart-bar-necklace-artisan-jewellery-by-silver-wren-and-oak/

The Finishing Touch: Liz Smith’s Crochet Coin Purses
If your mum appreciates the fine details and the “slow-made” movement, a Crochet Coin Purse by Liz Smith is a fabulous choice. These aren’t just practical accessories for keeping loose change handy; they are miniature works of art.

Each purse is beautifully handcrafted, and finished with a vintage-style clasp. These purses bring a dash of nostalgic charm to any handbag. Giving a piece by Liz Smith means gifting something that was made with patience and a genuine passion for the craft; a sentiment your mum is sure to cherish every time she reaches for it.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/crochet-coin-purse/

The Perfect Keepsake: Flower Cards by Art by Amelia
If you’re looking for a gift that combines the beauty of a bouquet with the longevity of a keepsake, look no further than the stunning flower cards by Art by Amelia. These aren’t your average supermarket greetings; each piece is a miniature work of art, featuring delicate, hand-painted botanical illustrations that feel pretty and personal.

It’s the perfect choice for the mum who loves her garden or appreciates the finer details of British craftsmanship. Instead of a card that gets tucked away in a drawer, Amelia’s creations are frequently framed by recipients, serving as a lasting reminder of your love long after Mothering Sunday has passed.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/flower-card/

For the Vintage Soul: Kirsty Jess’s Blue Glass Bulb Earrings
If your mum has a penchant for timeless elegance with a playful twist, look no further than these Vintage Style Blue Glass Bulb Earrings by the talented Kirsty Jess. These aren’t your average high-street accessories; they feature a striking combination of vibrant blue glass bulbs paired with contrasting deep orange beads.

The way the light catches the glass creates a beautiful glow, reminiscent of mid-century aesthetics while feeling completely fresh for 2026. Handmade with care, they’re the perfect “pop of colour” for a Sunday lunch outfit or a special evening out. It’s a thoughtful, artistic gift for the woman who appreciates jewellery with a bit of a backstory and a lot of character.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/vintage-style-blue-glass-christmas-light-bulb-earrings-with-deep-orange-beads/

One of a Kind: Marion Walsh
For the mum who cherishes her little treasures, the Grey Green Dish with Aqua Flowers by Marion Walsh is an absolute standout. This handcrafted trinket holder strikes the perfect balance between practical utility and delicate artistry. The muted, earthy grey-green glaze provides a sophisticated backdrop for the vibrant pops of aqua, creating a piece that feels both modern and timeless.

Whether it’s perched on a bedside table to keep her rings safe or used as a decorative accent in the living room, this dish is a beautiful reminder of your appreciation. Each piece carries the unique touch of the maker, making it a truly one-of-a-kind gift for a one-of-a-kind mum.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/ring-dish-with-swirls-ceramic-ring-holder-trinket-bowl-handmade-stoneware-tealight-holder-ceramic-small-dish-trinket-dish-copy/

For the Mum Who Loves Timeless Elegance
If your mum appreciates the finer things in life, look no further than the exquisite craftsmanship of Made By Fee. Her Sterling Silver & 18ct Gold Disc Stud Earrings are a masterclass in understated luxury. Handcrafted, these mixed-metal beauties offer a contemporary twist on a classic silhouette.

The warm glow of the 18ct gold against the cool shimmer of sterling silver makes them incredibly versatile and perfect for a casual Sunday brunch outfit or adding a sophisticated finishing touch to an evening ensemble. They aren’t just earrings; they are a little piece of wearable art that she’ll cherish for years to come.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/sterling-silver-18ct-gold-disc-stud-earrings-7mm/

For the Proud Lab Owner: Crafty Keek’s Labrador Keyring
If your mum is the type who’s never seen without a wagging tail by her side and a light coating of golden or black fur on her coat, then Crafty Keek has the perfect little token. Their Labrador Keyring Bag Charm is an absolute delight for dog lovers. Handmade with love, these charms capture the ‘pawsome’ character that makes Labs so beloved.

It’s more than just a way to keep her house keys organised; it’s a stylish bag accessory that lets her carry a little reminder of her four-legged best friend wherever she goes. Whether she’s a fan of the classic yellow, chocolate, or black Lab, this indie find is a thoughtful, “just because” gift that will certainly make her smile every time she grabs her handbag.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/labrador-keyring-bag-charm/

The Perfect Floral Flourish: Pink Flower Coasters by Sarah Lou Crafts
For the mum who loves a stylish coffee table and a proper British cuppa, look no further than the fun and functional work of Sarah Lou Crafts. These pink flower coasters are more than just a place to set down a mug; they are tiny pieces of botanical art.

Handmade crochet, each coaster features delicate floral motifs in shades of rosy pink, bringing a permanent touch of spring to her living room. Whether she’s enjoying a morning flat white or an afternoon Earl Grey, these durable yet elegant coasters are a wonderful way to gift her flowers that will never wilt.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/flower-coasters-with-storage-pot/

Finishing Touches: The Heart of the Gift
No matter what you choose, remember that the most cherished part of any Mother’s Day gift is the thought behind it. Whether it’s a piece of handcrafted jewellery that matches her style or a botanical coaster to help her unwind with a cuppa, buying from Buyindie ensures your gift has a story as unique as she is.

Plus, you’ll have that lovely “warm fuzzy” feeling knowing you’ve supported a UK-based artist or maker. Don’t forget to grab a beautiful hand-illustrated card from the platform to write your message; after all, it’s those words of appreciation that she’ll keep tucked away for years to come.

So head to Buyindie and use the “Gift Mode” to browse by occasion and find curated selections for your special someone.

Happy Mothering Sunday to all the incredible women making a difference.

Over To You
Do any of these gifts, spark your interest, let me know in the comments or you can connect with me on Instagram and Threads @SarahLouCrafts.

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You can read all my other posts at: https://buyindie.co.uk/store/sarahloucrafts/blogs/

Moss Stitch Squares Temperature Blanket

January 31, 2026 | Uncategorized

2025 Temperature Blanket

This year I chose to make a moss stitch in the square blanket, with each row of the square being one day of the highest temperature, taken at 12 pm each day for Carmarthenshire, South Wales, UK and one square for each month of the year, that will then be joined together to make a blanket.

You can track the daily temperatures for your area on the Time and Date website that records historical weather data. I keep a spreadsheet with the temperatures on for each day and then do a batch of rows for my blanket each week, rather than one row each day but you can work it however you like to suit your routine.

Here are the colours used from the Stylecraft Special DK range , but you can use any combination you like and any temperature range you prefer too.

Stylecraft Special DK Colour & Temperature Range ⁰C

Burgundy 31 and above

Claret 29-30

Lipstick 27-28

Tomato 25-26

Clementine 23-24

Citron 21-22

Mustard 19-20

Buttermilk 17-18

Apple 15-16

Grass Green 13-14

Green 11-12

Aster 9-10

Denim 7-8

Navy 5-6

Lavender 3-4

Violet 1-2

Purple 0 and below

MONTHLY UPDATES

*January 2025*
Here we are again with a new Temperature Blanket project for 2025. This year it is Moss Stitch Squares, each row of the square, around the white middle, is one day of the highest temperature taken at 12 pm each day and there is one square for each month of the year that will be then joined together to make a blanket.

Top Temp got to 11⁰C on 5.1
Low Temp was 3⁰C on 8.1

*February 2025*
I was going to say “oh, so much blue”, but then Spring suddenly sprang on 22 February and we had 5 gorgeous days of green before it dipped back to blue again. I am glad though, that the whole square hasn’t turned out to be shades of blue for the month.

I wonder if we will get to use any of the other shades of green in March too. What do you think?

Top Temp got to 12⁰C on 21.2
Low Temp was 4⁰C on 14.2

*March 2025*
I think you will agree how gorgeous this month turned out to be and a perfect visual representation of Spring so far. With lots of lovely yellows for some stunning warmer days too,

Top Temp: Got to a barmy 19⁰C on 20.3, shown by the darker mustard yellow row.
Low Temp: 8⁰C on several days, shown by denim blue rows, like on the 4.3.

*April 2025*
The month started off with lovely warm weather and a mix of yellows.

Top Temp got to 22⁰C on 4.4
Low Temp dipped to 8⁰C on 15.4

I still need to start joining the completed squares together too, but that is the bit I don’t enjoy.

*May 2025*
A lovely bright square for the month, even though the rain returned towards the end.

The top temp was 26⁰C on 1.5
Lowest temp was a respectable 13⁰C on 4.5 & 5.5

Do you think we will get to use any of the reds in June? We certainly didn’t get close last year.

*June 2025*
It has been a mixed bag this month and wonderfully warm. I have been able to use some of the red which we were not able to do in 2024.

Top temp was 28⁰C on 19 & 20.6.25
The lowest temp was a respectable 15⁰C on several days during the first week of June.

Will we get to use any more reds in July, what do you think?

*July 2025*
Here is the proof of what a wonderfully warm month we have had during July. Look at all those yellows, oranges and reds. If you remember last year’s blanket we didn’t get to use any of the red shades and I had to use them for the border instead.

Highest temp 28⁰C 11 & 13 July.
Lowest temp 18⁰C shown by the buttermilk yellow on several days.

I wonder if we will dip into the greens again in August or keep the lovely warm colours instead. What do you think?

*August 2025*
My prediction for August was thankfully incorrect and we had another wonderfully warm month instead.

Top temp 26⁰C on several days shown by the Tomato orange/red.
Low temp 17⁰C on 1.8 & 2.8 buttermilk cream/yellow.

*September 2025*
Autumn has definitely arrived as we dip back down into the greens and no orange or reds this month.

Top temp was 22⁰C shown by the yellow row on 6 Sept.
Low temp was 14⁰C shown by the lighter green row on 21 Sept.

The 2nd photo shows the other square to date, that I still need to join together to make the blanket.

Which month is your favourite colour combo so far?

*October 2025*
A return to greens as we head further into Autumn and closer to Winter.

Top temp reached 17⁰C on several days shown by the light Buttermilk yellow rows, like at the start of the month in the middle of the square.
Low temp was still a respectable 11-12⁰C shown by the darker green rows.

I am expecting to drop down into the single digits in November, do you agree?

*November 2025*
The weather has definitely been mixed this month and we have had so much rain here in my little corner of Wales. My prediction from last month was correct we did indeed dip into the single digits. The second photo shows the progress for Jan to Oct and I will obviously need to do a border on the whole blanket in early 2026 too.

Top temp was 16⁰C on 5.11
Low temp dropped to 4⁰C on 20.11 shown by the lavender row.

Do you have any predictions for December?

*December 2025*
The weather has definitely been mild this month shown by all the green rows and of course no white Christmas again in Wales. There was actually sun on the 25th although it was a cold one.

Top temp was 14⁰C on 9.12
Low temp only got to 6⁰C shown by the two Navy rows.

I am not making a temperature blanket in 2026 as I will be starting a different blanket project instead and will be sharing progress throughout the year.

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More Updates will be posted monthly and in the meantime you can you can read about the 2024 Temperature Blanket: https://buyindie.co.uk/star-temperature-blanket/

and all the other posts at https://buyindie.co.uk/store/sarahloucrafts/blogs/

Free from AI. This post and all posts on the Sarah Lou Crafts blog are written by me from my own rambling thoughts and are typed by hand. Thank you for reading.

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide

January 15, 2026 | Uncategorized

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide 2026

This Valentine’s Day, why settle for a mass-produced box of chocolates when you can give a gift of love with handmade heart and soul? Shopping on Buyindie means you aren’t just buying a “product”; you are supporting a UK-based artisan who has poured their heart, skill, and time into a one-of-a-kind creation especially for you.

Why Choose Handmade This Year?
In a world of fast fashion, disposable gifts and infinite scrolls, a handmade gift stands out. It says, “I took the time to find something as unique as you are.“

1. For the Home & Heart
Beautiful home décor and quality time with your partner, these gifts help create a beautiful space for you to share.

Heart Mats, Coasters or Garland, set of 6, by Sarah Lou Crafts. Red heart mug rug mats set of 6 that can be used as table coasters or strung as a garland. Each heart is 10 cm wide (4 inches).

Supplied with string so that you can choose to use it as a home décor decoration or as a set of tableware drink coasters perfect for Dydd Santes Dwynwen and Valentine’s day.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/heart-mats-coasters-garland/

Heart ceramic dish, Ring dish, Tapas dish, Trinket bowls with lace pattern, handmade home décor, hand built stoneware tray by Marion Walsh. A very versatile heart shaped dish full of rustic charms. Food safe, so can be used as a small serving dish for tapas, or why not place chunky candles in them? Other suggestions: trinket bowl, ring catcher. This beautiful heart is perfect for Valentine’s day or to show your love at any time!

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/mandala-ceramic-dish-tapas-dish-blue-or-aqua-trinket-bowl-with-mandala-handbuilt-stoneware-dessert-bowl-copy/

Rose Coasters with storage pot, by Sarah Lou Crafts. This set of 4 crochet coasters is a stylish and functional addition to your sustainable home décor. Made from premium acrylic yarn, these handmade homeware drinks mats are made to last and provide a protective and decorative surface for your tabletop. They can then be folded and stored in the white storage pot to look like a pretty bouquet of roses when not in use. 15cm (6″) diameter from petal tip. Yellow middle section 8cm (3.5″), fits a standard mug/cup.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/rose-coasters-with-storage-pot/

LOVE Bunting / Garland / Banner by Lorex Crafts. Love home décor with our stunning laser engraved reusable bunting! This eye-catching decoration features a cute heart design that brings a touch of elegance to any space. Perfect for indoor use, our bunting is easy to hang and the ideal finishing touch – especially with Valentines Day fast approaching!

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/love-bunting-garland-banner/

Flower Coasters with storage pot, by Sarah Lou Crafts. This set of 4 crochet coasters is a stylish and functional addition to your sustainable home décor. Made from premium acrylic yarn, these handmade homeware drinks mats are made to last and provide a protective and decorative surface for your tabletop. They can then be folded and stored in the white storage pot to look like a pretty plant of flowers when not in use. 15cm (6″) diameter from petal tip. Yellow middle section 8cm (3.5″), fits a standard mug/cup.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/flower-coasters-with-storage-pot/

2. Timeless Jewellery & Wearables
Jewellery is a Valentine’s classic, but the pieces on Buyindie offer a personal touch you won’t find on the high street.

Solid Sterling Silver Heart Pendant Necklace by Made By Fee. This gorgeous solid sterling silver asymmetrical heart pendant is made from scratch using traditional silversmithing techniques. These five hearts were test pieces for a new heart shape and to try out different ways of suspending the chain.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/solid-sterling-silver-heart-pendant/

Sterling Silver Connected Entwined Hearts Necklace by Cheryls Jeweller. Handmade sterling silver connected hearts. Entwined together making a link of two hearts as one and centred on a silver trace chain. A pretty gift for a loved one, Valentine or wedding.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/sterling-silver-entwined-hearts-necklace/

3. The Art of the Cards & Gift Boxes
Sometimes the message is the gift. On Buyindie, the cards & gifts are works of art in their own right.

Valentines card printed from original embroidered heart filled with flowers 6 x 6, by Lucinda Thompson. Beautiful Valentines day card, heart filled with lots of tiny embroidered flowers. This is a print of original embroidery and measures 6 x 6 inches. It is blank inside for your own personal message.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/valentines-card-printed-from-original-embroidered-heart-filled-with-flowers-6-x-6/

Romantic Italian Valentine’s Day Gift Box, by Dottie Bonnar. Celebrate love this Valentine’s Day with our exquisite Italian romantic gift box. This beautifully curated box includes heart-shaped Batticuori biscuits made of cocoa and dark chocolate, a pack of Baci Perugina fine chocolate pralines with hazelnuts (with a secret love message in each chocolate), a romantic candle, two hand-painted glass cups adorned with charming cat designs, and a sugar-coated chocolate flower. Each item is carefully selected to create a memorable and delightful experience for your loved one. Perfect for expressing your affection and making this Valentine’s Day truly special. Order now and surprise your special someone with a gift that speaks from the heart!

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/romantic-italian-valentines-day-gift-box/

2026 Trend Spotlight: Sustainable Romance
This year, we are seeing a shift toward mindful buying and eco-conscious gifting. Many Buyindie sellers offer:

Recycled Materials: Jewellery made from recycled silver or upcycled textiles.
Plastic-Free Packaging: Most indie sellers use compostable or recyclable boxes, envelopes and tapes.
Low Carbon Footprint: Buying from a UK maker means your gift isn’t flying halfway across the world to reach your doorstep.

Head to Buyindie and use the “Gift Mode” to browse by occasion and find curated selections for your special someone.

Over To You
Do any of these gifts, spark your interest, let me know in the comments or you can connect with me on Instagram and Threads @SarahLouCrafts.

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You can read all my other posts at https://buyindie.co.uk/store/sarahloucrafts/blogs/

Free from AI. This post and all posts on the Sarah Lou Crafts blog are written by me from my own rambling thoughts and are typed by hand. Thank you for reading.

How Hiking Mitts Can Help You On Adventures

November 17, 2025 | Uncategorized

Hiking Mitts

I have been adventuring since I was a child, from an active and creative family. Alongside adventures with Guides, Duke of Edinburgh and Scouting, comes a love of craft making. As a parent and multiple dog owner when adventuring I wanted gloves to keep my hands warm but had to keep removing them to get items from the backpack or to hold on to the dog lead so I decided to crochet my own fingerless mitts for people who want practical yet beautiful adventure accessories.

Crochet fingerless gloves are perfect hiking accessories. Even during summer, mountain climbing, beach exploring, or any outdoor adventure can be chilly.

They are available in a variety of colours and sizes, are lightweight and easy to pack. The convenience of fingerless gloves means you are still able to access your phone, navigation device, maps, backpack, dog lead. The list is endless.

Warm Wrists, Warm Hands

Believe it or not but wearing hand-warming fingerless gloves will indeed keep you toasty and warm. Large arteries of the body pass close to the skin at your wrists so they can release a lot of heat. Studies have found that if we were losing heat it was because our wrists are not properly insulated.

Whenever someone is exposed to cold temperatures, the nerves of the skin, blood vessels, and brain sense the colder temperature and then send chemical messages along the nervous system to the arteries of the skin, hands, and feet, telling them to constrict to keep as much warm blood as possible away from the skin, fingers, and toes.

This helps to prevent the body from losing vital warmth through the skin and to keep the blood and inner part of the body (with vital organs like the brain, kidneys, and heart) at the correct warm body temperature. In the vast majority of people, this chain of events just causes the skin to feel cooler than normal.

In some people, however, it can cause severe pain and affect your daily activities or enjoyment of adventures. It is therefore important to layer up and wear warm accessories when and wherever you are out and about.

It’s not easy finding products for us Frosties even during the summer months the weather can be chilly especially if you are more prone than some, to feeling the cold.

Hiking mitts are available in medium and large adult sizes and I recommend you even invest in a large size which gives you room to even add a warmer pouch into the glove. A medium-size will give you a snugger fit depending on preference and they are all long to cover the wrists and forearm area for added comfort and warmth.

How Hiking Mitts Can Help

Reduce extreme sensitivity to cold. The body may react to cold-causing pain. Wear Hiking Mitts to reduce your sensitivity.
Lessen skin colour changes. Fingers, toes, and/or sometimes the ears, lips and nose turn white due to lack of blood flow (called pallor). The blood that’s left in the tissues loses its oxygen and the affected area turns blue (called cyanosis). As fresh oxygen-rich blood returns to the area, it often turns bright red. Hiking Mitts, Ear Warmer Headbands and Beanie Hats will keep your extremities warm.
Avoid coldness, pain and numbness. A lack of oxygenated blood in the fingers triggers these feelings. Numbness is the sensation that the hands and fingers have “fallen asleep.”
Alleviate, tingling and throbbing. The quick return of blood to the fingers triggers these feelings, but keeping a warm and even body temperature can ease any tingling or throbbing.

Ear Warmer Headbands

To complete the accessories look are matching sets of ear warmer headbands to keep the crazy annoying wind from giving you terrible earache and that constant battle of keeping your windblown hair from your eyes.

Beret Hats

Berets are excellent for spring, autumn, or winter weather, adding warmth without the snug heaviness of a thick beanie and thanks to their looser, slouched fit compared to a tight beanie, they are great for keeping your hair style and fit well for those with longer hair too.

Boot Cuffs

Boot cuffs are short ankle warmers designed to give that extra level of warmth on cold hiking adventures. I created the pattern myself and they can be worn either long or short by folding over the ribbed cuff for added versatility.

Lap blankets

Are smaller in size, designed to be over your knees while sitting around a campfire when camping or caravanning and therefore lighter and easier to pack too. These blankets can also be used in the home as a comforter / small blanket for children or as a chair or sofa throw.

You can shop the full range of handmade gifts and ‘Adventure Accessories’ from Sarah Lou Crafts.

You can read all my other posts at https://buyindie.co.uk/store/sarahloucrafts/blogs/

Free from AI. This post and all posts on the Sarah Lou Crafts blog are written by me from my own rambling thoughts and are typed by hand. Thank you for reading.

My store is open 11th Sept 25

September 11, 2025 | Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Hi everyone, thank you if you have looked at my products I have for sale.

If you haven’t guessed I live on the South East coast of Kent surrounded by beaches and so that is what most of my paper art is based around. I love looking at a photo and designing all the layers and then adding tiny details to the buildings like cutting out windows. If you have an idea for a place I could make please do contact me. London is as far away as I’ve created so far.

I’m currently really enjoying quilling on top of photographs, this idea came about as something for me to do while working in my store. I own a hut on Herne Bay Pier and we are open everyday of the school holidays, it totalled 44 days straight work. Last summer (24) was my first there and everyday gets quite tedious so this year I looked what art I could create while working.

I can’t make resin in my hut and I don’t have my laser to cut my layered paper art so I bought a quilling kit to see how I got on with that. The instructions were in Chinese but YouTube helped. I kept looking at these pre-printed image outlines and thinking I wonder if I can so this on my own photos. I’d seen people make art from the small strips of paper instead of curled and so began using that on a photo of my mums dog and it worked. I then started doing photos of animals I’d taken at the wildlife park, which look great and a visitor even asked me to use their photos as they take so many that just sit on their computer. So keep your eye out for new images being quilled soon.

I’m hoping to do quilling live on my tiktok page – https://www.tiktok.com/@pretty.not.purrfect

Speak soon

Claire

Sarah Lou Crafts – FAQs

August 15, 2025 | Uncategorized

Frequently Asked Questions to Sarah Lou Crafts.

Do You Offer Your Products Wholesale?
I offer Notebook Journals, Cord Bracelets, Pawprint Pictures, Wind Spinners, Coasters and Garlands for wholesale bulk orders. Please contact me for a catalogue and price list.

Is your packaging eco-friendly?
Yes it is. I am conscious of using recyclable and sustainable packaging for my products.
*The packing boxes are made from recycled cardboard and are recyclable.
*I also try to re-use boxes that I receive through the post myself, so occasionally you may see some slight wear and tear to your packaging but I am sure you will understand this in no way affects the quality of your carefully wrapped handmade items inside.
*The tissue paper is non-bleached and also recyclable.
*I also use shredded card packing that is reused from items I have received in the post.

I do not charge you for packing costs, just postage.

Do You Accept Returns?
I accept returns and exchanges within 30 days of purchase and you are responsible for return postage costs. If you need to amend or cancel your order please contact me within 24 hours as I do try to dispatch orders the next business working day.

How do I care for my handmade product?
Care instructions are shown on each of the listings and I will also include a care label in your package. Although most of my crochet items can be machined washed at 30⁰C (86⁰F), I recommend hand-washing and dry flat for all my crochet items to ensure the life of your handmade garment.

Why does the colour look different when my item arrived?
I try to photograph each item in natural daylight but please be aware that colours may be slightly different in person to how it appears on your screen due to varying PC, laptop and phone screen settings.

Do You Offer Custom Orders?
I love working with customers to create their perfect gift idea. I welcome custom requests, so if you have an idea, please contact me and we can work together to make it a reality.

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If you have a question that is not answered here, please do get in contact and I will be happy to help.

You can read all my other posts at https://buyindie.co.uk/store/sarahloucrafts/blogs/

Free from AI. This post and all posts on the Sarah Lou Crafts blog are written by me from my own rambling thoughts and are typed by hand. Thank you for reading.

Star Temperature Blanket

July 22, 2025 | Uncategorized

2024 Temperature Blanket

I haven’t made a temperature blanket for a few years now but in January saw a fabulous post on Instagram by the lovely @Debbie_made_this of her 2023 blanket and I knew I had to make one in the same design.

Debbie chose a 12-point-star blanket and I thought what a fabulous template that was to base a temperature blanket on.

You start with the standard 12-point middle segment of the blanket using a 3.5 mm hook and DK yarns. The pattern idea is from Bella Coco Crochet and then each month will be built from each point of the star. One month to each point of the star.

All segments need to be 31 rows so for shorter months, like February, you will need to add two/three rows of grey to match the length of the first segment (January) and then 1 grey row for all other months with 30 days in.

The figures are taken from the highest temperature at 12pm each day for Carmarthenshire, South Wales, UK and can be found on the Time and Date website that records historical weather data. You can also search for your own City, Town or place.

I keep a spreadsheet with the temperatures on for each day and then do a batch of rows for my blanket each week, rather than one row each day but you can work it however you like to suit your routine.

You could of course choose to use different types of yarn and a corresponding hook size to suit.

Here are the colours I chose to use, but you can use any combination you like and any temperature range you prefer too.

Colour & Temperature Range

Plum 31 & above
Dark Red 29-30
Red 27-28
Tomato 25-26
Clementine 23-24
Buttermilk 21-22
Neutral Yellow 19-20
Citron17-18
Apple 15-16
Grass Green 13-14
Green 11-12
Sky Blue 9-10
Denim 7-8
Ocean Blue 5-6
Lilac 3-4
Violet 1-2
Proper Purple 0 & below

MONTHLY UPDATES

January 2024. A mild January over all except for the lilac rows/days

The top temp was 12⁰C on 2 Jan 24 & 21 Jan 24.
The lowest temp was 3⁰C on 13 Jan 24

February 2024. A ridiculously mild month again.

The top temp was 14⁰C on 18 Feb 24.
The lowest temp was 7⁰C on 23 Feb 24 & 25 Feb 24.

March 2024. As you can see, it’s still ridiculously mild and even warm.

The top temp was 13⁰C on 17, 18 & 30 March.
The lowest temp was 7⁰C on 1 & 2 March.

April 2024.

Top temp got to 15⁰C on 12 April & 23 April. Shown by the two apple green rows.
Lowest temp was only 10⁰C on 2 April & 17 April. Shown by the two sky blue rows.

May 2024. Look at all that yummy yellow for May.

Highest temp 20⁰C on 10 & 11 May.
Lowest temp 10⁰C on 2 May.

June 2024. As you can see from the green June got off to a rocky start.

Top temp got to 20⁰C on 2, 25 & 26 June.
Low of 13⁰C on 13.6.2024.

I wonder if we will get to use Orange in July?

July 2024. The summer has definitely been warmer even if it has always felt like it and if you look closely you can see a cheeky row of Clementine orange for yesterday.

Top temp 23⁰C 29.7.2024
Low temp 16⁰C on several days shown by the apple green rows.

August 2024. We sadly didn’t get the heatwave I was hoping for only so I could use the red colours that I had planned. As you can see, there was only one cheeky hot day shown by the red row.

Top temp 26⁰C on 11 Aug.
Low temp was 17⁰C on 21, 24 & 25 Aug.

As I am unlikely to be using red now for any of the remaining months, I have decided I will be doing the border of the Blanket in the colours I don’t use.

Do you have any predictions as we head into the autumn months?

September 2024. As another month draws to a close, I still have a few days to complete but you can see the greens creeping in again as the weather begins it’s downward spiral towards winter. You can also see that the Summer was quite disappointing with only 1 day of red achieved.

Top Temp 22⁰C on 1.9 & 19.9
Low Temp 14⁰C on 27.9

October 2024. Well, I am going to be honest, this month was boring to crochet. Look at all that apple green. Okay it had been mild but hardly any variation in temperatures and therefore colours.

Top Temp 18⁰C on 7.10
Low Temp 11⁰C on 13.10

November 2024. Still relatively mild for November and can you see where Storm Bert hit (hint, the first block of blue rows).

Top temp got to 15⁰C on several days, shown by the Apple green rows.
Low temp was a chilly 5⁰C on 19.11 during the storm.

Will we get down to the purples in December?

December 2024. There are still a few days for me to complete and then the border to do, so I will share the completed project soon.

The top temp was 13C on 1.12 & 5.12 shown by the grass green rows.
The lowest temp only got down to 5C on 27.12.

I have chosen the design I am going to do for the 2025 Blanket and am excited to start that one too.

The blanket is available to purchase from my Buyindie shop. https://buyindie.co.uk/product/blanced-seren-star-blanket/

OVER TO YOU
Have you ever made a temperature blanket or have I inspired you to try making one? You can message me here on Buyindie or connect with me on Instagram and Threads @SarahLouCrafts.

You can read about the 2025 Temperature Blanket on the blog: https://buyindie.co.uk/moss-stitch-squares-temperature-blanket/

and all my other posts at https://buyindie.co.uk/store/sarahloucrafts/blogs/

Free from AI. This post and all posts on the Sarah Lou Crafts blog are written by me from my own rambling thoughts and are typed by hand. Thank you for reading.

How to Start A Junk Journal

June 21, 2025 | Uncategorized

What is Junk Journalling?

Junk journaling is a creative and eco-friendly way to express yourself and create a memory keepsake. It involves creating a unique journal using a variety of recycled and found materials, often considered “junk.”

They are completely unique and personal to you. A chance to be totally creative, reflecting your own individual style and the materials you choose to use. You can fill the pages from a variety of recycled and found materials like old book pages, maps, fabric scraps, envelopes, and more. I have included a selection of items to get you started.

You could use yours for writing, sketching, memory keeping, art journaling, or personalised as a place to store memorable ephemera (tickets, photos, letters, etc.).

Junk journals are a fun way to explore different textures, colours, and techniques like collage, painting, stamping, and writing. There are no rules, the process is entirely up to you and encourages creativity.

The process of creating a junk journal can be a calming and meditative activity. It allows you to focus on the present moment and engage in a creative flow. Junk journaling is all about embracing imperfection and letting your creativity guide you. There are no strict rules or guidelines, making it accessible to everyone.

Why people love junk journaling.

Unleash creativity: It’s a fun way to explore your artistic side and experiment with different mediums.

Stress relief: The act of creating can be therapeutic and help reduce stress.

Memory preservation: It’s a unique way to document and cherish your memories.

Eco-friendly: It promotes sustainability by repurposing materials.

Personal growth: It can be a tool for self-reflection and personal development.

Junk journaling is a versatile and rewarding hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. It’s a journey of self-discovery, creative expression, and mindful memory keeping.

Cork Notebook Journals

Each journal is carefully hand-crafted by me, making it a special and unique handmade gift.

The cover is made from cork fabric, and you can choose from any of the 6 pretty designs and each has a coordinating faux suede wrap tie to keep the notebook closed when not in use. Pocket Size (A6) approx. 18cm x 13cm (closed). 18cm x 30cm (opened) / 7″ x 5″ (closed). 7″ x 12″ (opened).

Inside the journal, you will find five inserts of pages each with 16 sheets carefully bound together with hand-sewn binding using strong waxed cotton thread to ensure the durability and longevity of your journal. The pages are made from plain white 75 gsm FSC paper that is sustainably sourced.

Over To You

Have you tried Junk Journalling? Has this post inspired you to start? I would love to hear from you in the comments below or you can tag me on Instagram & Threads @SarahLouCrafts.

You can purchase a Junk Journal Starter Kit from my Buyindie Shop.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/junk-journal-starter-kit/

You can read all my other posts at https://buyindie.co.uk/store/sarahloucrafts/blogs/

Free from AI. This post and all posts on the Sarah Lou Crafts blog are written by me from my own rambling thoughts and are typed by hand. Thank you for reading.

World Pet Memorial Day

May 26, 2025 | Uncategorized

World Pet Memorial Day is a special day observed annually on the second Tuesday of June. It was created to provide a time for pet owners to remember and honour their beloved pets who have sadly passed away and to celebrate the love our pawsome pets brought into our lives.

You can observe World Pet Memorial Day in various meaningful ways, such as:

Creating a pet photo album or scrapbook: Gathering and arranging pictures and mementos.
Drawing or painting your pet: Creating a lasting artistic tribute.
Getting a tattoo in memory of your beloved: A permanent way to keep their memory close. My sister has a beautiful rainbow paw print tattoo.
Planting a pet memorial garden: A living reminder in a special place in your garden.
Lighting a candle: A simple act of remembrance and reflection.
Donating to an animal charity: Honouring your pet by helping other animals.
Volunteering at a local shelter: Giving time and love to animals in need.
Planting a tree or flower: A growing tribute to your pet’s life.
Sharing a tribute on social media: Connecting with others who understand the loss of a pet using the hashtag #WorldPetMemorialDay.

Crossing The Rainbow Bridge

The Rainbow Bridge is a beautiful and comforting image often shared when a beloved pet passes away. It is believed to be a serene and beautiful place where pets go after they die. A place where pets are healthy, happy, and whole again – young, energetic, and free from pain or illness.

It’s a symbol of hope and the enduring bond between humans and animals, offering solace to those grieving the loss of their furry, scaled, or feathered friends.

Memory Gifts

As mentioned above there are lots of ways to remember your past pet and I offer beautiful cork notebooks that you can use to create a memory journal.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/notebook-journals-cork-fabric/

Or you can choose to have a Rainbow paw print made that can be framed or left as a pretty mat to keep in your home.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/rainbow-paw-print-picture-pet-memorial/

Or you can choose to have a paw print made in the colours of your pawdorable buddy again with or without a frame option.

https://buyindie.co.uk/product/paw-print-picture-pet-gifts/

Over To You

I would love to hear how you have chosen to remember your wonderful pets. You can connect and tag me on Instagram & Threads @SarahLouCrafts.

You can read all my other posts at https://buyindie.co.uk/store/sarahloucrafts/blogs/

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