Settle in with a cosy cuppa as we explore a gentle, creative Christmas filled with handmade gifts, calm crafting moments, and the quiet joy of making things by hand. This episode reflects on lace, knitting and crochet projects, including the annual excitement of KALs and CALs, plus the charm of Helen Stewart’s Knitvent, which I subscribe to every year with sincere intentions that rarely match my December pace.

We look at the tradition of exchanging lace decorations with fellow lacemakers and the pleasure of creating handmade cards inspired by Mary Wu’s thoughtful tutorials. Family gifting features too, as I share the long-running habit of making presents for siblings and my husband’s sister, along with the acceptance that sometimes projects simply do not get finished on time.

Join me for a reflective wander through crafting, mending and meaningful making as we celebrate a Christmas shaped by creativity, connection and the kindness of pacing ourselves.

Read the accompanying blog and get the links mentioned here.

In this episode, The Lace Bee reflects on the meditative nature of making bobbin lace. From pricking out the pattern to the rhythmic movement of the bobbins, this is a quiet celebration of slow craft, presence and the peace that comes with each thread crossed. Perfect for listeners seeking calm, inspiration or simply a slower pace for a little while.

In this gentle episode, we look at the idea that true skill isn’t born overnight but built over time. Drawing inspiration from Matthew Syed’s book Bounce, this reflective episode unpicks the myth of natural talent and celebrates the steady, unglamorous power of practice.

Whether you’ve just picked up your first bobbins or have years of lace behind you, this is a warm reminder that everyone starts somewhere – and that becoming a lacemaker is a process, not a prize.

With thoughtful pauses, stories from the pillow, and a quiet nod to all those moments of unpicking and starting again, this is a companion piece for anyone who has ever felt unsure, stuck, or slow.

Because there are no instant lacemakers. Only patient ones.

Read more about this and see the links mentioned in the podcast on the accompanying blog.