My name's Penelope but please call me Penny - Penelope is just too long!

As a lifelong lover of art and crafts I have always enjoyed making and giving unusual presents to friends and family. Presents made by hand are always original and thoughtful and people were very complimentary about them. I received so many requests for more gorgeous gifts that I began to sell them!

Sewing has always been a special love of mine and I discovered Stumpwork embroidery about ten years ago. There were no Stumpwork embroidery kits around at the time and I eventually designed and produced my own kits trading as 'Newpenny Designs'. I also designed the first Stumpwork embroidery kits for DMC! I should mention at this point that the skep beehive design is inspired by the great Jane Nicholas's original and I have never sold it as a kit or claimed it as my own. I worked mine from a candle mould!

Hand made 'recycled' gifts are especially fun, I think, and I have a variety of goods on offer from earrings made from drinks cans (honest!) to sewing accessories made from walnut shells and old jumpers! I love hunting for old buttons and the button earrings have a great modern/retro look. Perfect for all ages to wear!

All items on this site have been carefully made by hand and approximately 75% are made using recycled, reclaimed or other peoples throw-out materials. Any bought-in supplies are, wherever possible, ethically and responsibly sourced.

Please explore Madebyhand, enjoy the products, and do not hesitate to contact us with any queries or comments.