In this reflective solo episode, The Lace Bee shares why bobbin lacemaking has been added to the Heritage Crafts Red List of Endangered Crafts – and what this means for the future of the craft in the UK.

Drawing on personal insight, historical context and the quiet power of community, this episode explores the challenges facing lacemaking today, from dwindling adult education and an ageing practitioner base to undervalued market pricing.

But it is also a call to action. Whether you’re a lifelong lacemaker or a curious beginner, The Lace Bee invites you to keep the thread alive – by sharing, teaching and making space for the next generation of lace.

Listen in to rediscover the strength, beauty and importance of a craft that deserves not only to be remembered – but to be revived.

You can read more about this topic on the accompanying blog here

New Year and a new season. In this episode, I look at what lace bobbins are made of.

From wood to bone, pewter to glass, I explore the quiet beauty and history behind the materials that have shaped our bobbins. Whether you're new to lace or have a pillow full of favourites, there's something here to enjoy and reflect on.

To see examples of these bobbins, visit the accompanying blog.

In this episode of the Christmas Lace Notes, “Feast and Folklore,” I delve into the history behind classic British festive dishes—like the roast turkey, Christmas pudding, and mince pies—and discover how their origins are intertwined with treasured holiday stories.

I have included details on how to download many of the stories mentioned in the accompanying blog from Project Gutenberg.

Join me as I explore the moral lessons of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol (Project Gutenberg), the festive mystery of Doyle’s The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle (Project Gutenberg), the tender themes in O. Henry’s The Gift of the Magi (Project Gutenberg), and more.

Join me as I celebrate the flavours, traditions, and timeless literature that make Christmas truly magical.

Read further and access all the links including some recipes on my blog here

In my latest podcast I look at how international dishes have influenced our Christmas and our memories. To read the blog and access recipes mentioned then follow this link

A Sweet Slice of Christmas: The Iconic Sweets of the 70s and 80s

Step back into the 70s and 80s and rediscover the Christmas sweets that brought magic to UK holiday celebrations.

Join us on The Christmas Lace Notes Podcast as we unwrap nostalgic stories behind iconic treats like Quality Street, Ferrero Rocher, and Terry’s 1767 Casket Chocolates.

From the colourful wrappers of Fruit Pastilles to the sophisticated elegance of Elizabeth Shaw mints, we’ll explore how these sweets became part of our Christmas memories. This episode is packed with stories, sensory details, and warm reflections on the sweet traditions that filled stockings and gathered families around the holiday table.

Find the links, see the Ambassador and his Ferrero Rocher and read more on the Christmas lace notes blog

Get ready to make cheese the highlight of your Christmas celebrations! In this festive episode, host I dive into the delicious world of Christmas cheeses.

From choosing the perfect cheese gift to creating a stunning holiday cheese board and exploring the rise of goat’s and sheep’s milk cheeses for lactose-sensitive guests, this episode is packed with tips and inspiration.

We’ll also explore pairing cheeses with festive drinks like mulled wine, Champagne, and spiced cider, making your holiday gatherings memorable and mouth-watering.

Whether you’re a cheese lover or looking for unique gift ideas, join us for a Christmas cheese journey filled with flavour, fun, and festive cheer!

Discover the pros and cons of making Christmas presents for loved ones. Get tips on crafting gifts without stress and learn how to stay ahead of the holiday rush.

Each year, I add to my Christmas Lace Notes blog, starting with my movie-a-day challenge on 15th November, where I watch, surprisingly, a movie a day.

In this episode, I look at the pros and cons of making Christmas presents for your friends and family and share my 5 Ways to Get Ahead Without Losing Your Mind

1. Start Early: "Don’t wait until December. Start planning and crafting months in advance to avoid last-minute stress."
2. Simplify Your Projects: "Choose gifts that match your skill level and don’t require a ton of materials. Sometimes, simple is better!"
3. Set a Budget: "Even though you’re making gifts, it’s important to keep an eye on the cost of supplies. Set a limit and stick to it."
4. Create a Schedule: "Block off specific days or weekends for crafting. If you spread the work out, it feels less overwhelming."
5. Know When to Say No: "If it’s becoming too much, it’s okay to hit pause. You don’t have to make everything. It’s perfectly fine to buy a few gifts or mix in store-bought items."

Back in Episode 1 I looked at how crafting can affect your mental health, in this episode I look at how your mental health can affect your crafting along with my gratitude project.