Wednesday 27 June 2012

Independents Day...

Celebrate "Independents Day" and shop local!


As part of Wood Street market we've joined forces with other retailers to bring shoppers the best in indie shopping offering a variety of special events, street food stalls, workshops (for kids and adults too), shopping discounts and live music from the 4th to the 7th of July.

Held through out the indoor market and in association with other local businesses we'll be showcasing why it's imperative to support local independents.
Look out for the campaign posters in local participating shops, restaurants and businesses! Wood Street Indoor Market 98-100 Wood Street E17 3HX From 10 am to 5.30 pm.

If you'd like to know more about our Shop Local campaign visit the official site: http://shoplocale17.weebly.com/



Tuesday 12 June 2012

Stitch...Wanstead

Stitch: M.Rosenberg & Son, Fabric Merchant 
10 Woodbine Place Wanstead
E11 2RH


There's a gorgeous little fabric shop which has recently opened in Wanstead, East London. Just a few skips from the tube station and nestled behind the high street you'll find this cute family run shop. I went there to meet the owner Jenny who owns this business with her dad who's been in the trade for over 60 years. She tells me her grandparents started life as traders selling fabrics at various London markets. Their portrait hangs in pride of place in the upstairs room which they are looking into transforming into a creative space.



Jenny's a really warm, friendly gal and I can see she is brimming with pride and genuine love for her stock. When you come through the door you're greeted by friendly smiling faces and both Jenny and her assistant are quick to make you at ease.
Her knowledge about cutting fabrics so you get the repeat pattern was amazing. I ear-wigged on the conversation between them and a costumer and I was amazed at the attention to detail and just how great their advice was. Though I suspect that if she could she'd be sitting behind a sewing machine making dresses from all that pretty fabric rather then just cutting it for her customers! When she talks about the shop I can see that she is so enthused with it and can't wait until it's established in Wanstead.

Jenny and her assistant look after costumers with expert advice and knowledge...


Designer Roberto Cavalli fabric...

Fat quarter bundles and beautiful dress making patterns are also available to buy...

 The former builders merchants is characterful building and I'm so happy that it hasn't been knocked down or turned into flats after the previous business ceased trading. I for one think it looks better now but I am bias...how could I not love the endless shelves of beautiful fabrics???!!!


I promise you that if you go there that you won't be disappointed. You'll probably come out with a few more meters of fabric then you intended buying even though you promised yourself you wouldn't add to your stash! The variety is awesome and yes it is a lot of temptation but I managed to buy only the one meter of a really beautiful cherry cotton print which I will use for a dirndl skirt... now lets just hope the good weather arrives so I can wear it!

Alexander Hendry Fabrics at £7 a meter!

The shop is stocked high with bales of pretty Liberty cottons, Alexander Hendry prints and even designer fabrics at very good prices! Plus they also have a few shelves of wool, patterns and haberdashery....just enough to get you imagining what you could make with all that lovely stuff.
There was also the prettiest collection of oil cloth and cotton canvas with girly spots and soft ice cream stripes...perfect for kitting out your garden seating area!
I wish them all the luck and I look forward to visiting again...