Nicola Gouldsmith and Jacqui Mann met in an old soap factory in July 2009 and quickly realized that they both shared a lifelong passion for making things, growing their own, and making the most of the beautiful rural surroundings in which they life. These shared passions led them to set up Halfpenny Home, an arts and crafts centre where artists and crafters can meet, create and inspire each other.
A Green Guide to Country Crafts is their first book and is full of traditional country craft projects, gorgeous photographs and practical demonstrations.
Can you tell us the story of how you met and started the arts and craft emporium Halfpenny Home?
We met through a mutual friend who thought we’d get on and work well together, and she was right! Lisa described us as a Victoria sponge and raspberries with Greek yogurt - delicious eaten separately but when put together they make a spectacular combination! She didn't say which one of us is the sponge and which is the fruit...
A Green Guide to Country Crafts features projects on soap and candle making, weaving, dying and recycling vintage finds. Why did you decide to write a book about traditional country crafts?
It felt right because we love recycling and making the best use of what we have. It feels great to give unwanted and unloved items a new lease of life. It’s lovely to see the traditional crafts given a new twist.
Dyeing with Woad
Where did you learn your skills?
We both come from ‘crafty’ and thrifty families, used to making things.
What advice would you give to someone who is new to crafting and isn’t sure where to start?
Don’t be afraid to just give it a go, part of the fun is learning! Joining a local craft group is also a great way of meeting like minded people who will provide support and inspiration.
There are 35 projects in A Green Guide to Country Crafts from deckchairs to fire lighters, how do you find your inspiration?
It’s all around us! Beautiful countryside, nature, food……you name it!
We both come from ‘crafty’ and thrifty families, used to making things.
What advice would you give to someone who is new to crafting and isn’t sure where to start?
Don’t be afraid to just give it a go, part of the fun is learning! Joining a local craft group is also a great way of meeting like minded people who will provide support and inspiration.
There are 35 projects in A Green Guide to Country Crafts from deckchairs to fire lighters, how do you find your inspiration?
It’s all around us! Beautiful countryside, nature, food……you name it!
Woven egg basket
Which is the item you’ve made that’s most precious to you and why?
Jacqui: For me it has to be the Blue Peter Theatre I made as a child. So much love and care went into it, that it still makes me smile today!
Nicola: There are so many things that I've enjoyed making both for myself and for other people but I have always been particularly pleased with the fancy dress costumes I've produced. My best friend Danda who has been both a great Queen Amidala and Damsel in distress in recent years and the ones that I've made for my son Miles who has been a brilliant Dark Magician and Buzz Lightyear in the past - I still have very fond memories of the Marshall Amplifier dress that I made for myself!
pine cone firelighters
Where do you feel most inspired?
The Suffolk coast and countryside.
What’s next for Halfpenny Home?
We’ve got loads of ideas…..how long have you got?
A preview of A Green Guide to Country Crafts:
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