Buttons!

I've had an awful cold for a few days and have been zapped of all energy. I was tempted not to come into work today and just sleep, but I dragged myself out of bed and here I am!

 I didn't have a clue what to blog about today until I saw this picture on Facebook...

Those of you who already know me well, will know that I have a slight addiction to buttons. I don't know how or where this started but I just do, I love buttons!

So much so I make my own...

... Out of ceramics...

... Plastics...

...and enamel

We even have a cat called Button, although we didn't call him this but we just had to have him from Cats Protection when we saw him...

Here he is, he's ace. As cute as a button some might say!!

So come on then spill, I've admitted my addiction, lets hear yours!

If anyone has any unwanted buttons you know where to send them ;)





I can't believe I forgot...

... The Bead Shop!

There are two that I always go to, the link above is in London on Tower Street, Covent Garden. It is AMAZING. I try and get to London at least once a year and when I do The Bead Shop is always on my list for a visit. I tend to leave the other half roaming around all the other interesting shops in the area as he gets a bit bored looking at beads!

The other that I like to visit is a little closer to home in Aflex Palace, Manchester.

These are a few of my favourite things...

... This morning I thought I'd share with you a few of my favourite places to visit, all craft related of course!

First up: The Manchester Craft & Design Centre - I LOVE this place. Having my shop now means I haven't been able to get there for a while but fingers crossed I'll get there again soon.

You can find the Centre on Oak Street in the Northern Quarter in Manchester.

Home to 18 studios, ranging from jewellery and clothing to wood, metal and ceramics you are bound to find something amazing. There is also a cafe in the centre and they run regular workshops and exhibitions.
 If you're in Manchester it is WELL worth a visit!

Whilst you're in the City make sure you call in at Fred Aldous on Lever Street. This is an amazing art & craft supplies shop full to the brim of all things magical!

Also the Craft Shop in the Royal Exchange is a little hidden gem.

Moving out of the City now and up to the Lake District. One of my closest friends who knows my dream of having a craft shop and tea rooms told me to take a trip to Hawkshead, there in the tiny village lies Poppi Red.

This place really is amazing. You can get a yummy slice of cake and a cup of tea and enjoy whilst surrounded by the prettiest things.

I love finding new places so if anyone has any suggestions for me that would be great but for now I hope you enjoy my findings and if you haven't already visited you really must!





I am not a real fish...

... A must see 365 project by the fabulous Photography by Gail Griggs.

Gail has challenged herself to take a different photograph everyday for a year. Each photo to include this little fishy.

You can follow the adventures of Mr. Fish over on Facebook.

I love Gail's work, so much so she is one of my suppliers at Handmade By.... The vintage inspired images are all taken through the view finder of a 1940's camera. Ooo they are just yummy to look at!

As well as these great prints Gail is available to take photographs of your special events. She prides herself in fun, informal photography.

I hope you enjoy looking at her work as much as I do!

First...

... a bit about me...

... For those that don't know me, hi! I'm Bethany Matthews, a designer maker with a passion for all things handmade based in Cheshire.

Chunky Statement Necklace



 I graduated from University with a 2:1 in Contemporary Crafts back in 2008 and as soon as I left I set up my business, Handmade by Bethany, specialising is jewellery and accessories, but also making the odd card and wedding stationary too! I love to dabble and will have a go at anything. I have a particular passion for buttons! Commissions always welcome.

Handmade enamel & felt brooch

Organza Wedding Bouquet

 After leaving University it was my dream to have my own little craft shop and tea rooms. Well last year one thing led to another and in September I opened 'Handmade By...'. A small but perfectly formed craft shop (minus the tea rooms, they can come later) with a workshop at the back. So I can sell and make all under one roof.

That's me in Handmade By...

As well as making and selling my own jewellery and accessories I also stock work from other artists and designers who are all based in Cheshire & the surrounding areas.

 I think it's so important to promote local talent, especially when it comes to the arts.

Howdie...

... Well hello everyone.
I've not got the best track record when it comes to blogging. I start off all guns blazing and then seem to become too easily distracted.
 Here I am starting a fresh. New blog, new less distracted self!

The idea for this little haven is for me to share my ideas and inspirations with you and to promote the world of handmade.
 I'll be looking to feature designer makers from all walks of life and also try and keep you up to date with the goings on in the craft world.

I hope you enjoy.
Beth x