Paying it Forwards - The Legacy of Handmade
This week when I had my sewing class, we talked about the things we sewed when we were children, the style of the sewing machines, I met someone I used to be at school with and we had a long chat about how we have come back to sewing and how agonising those lessons at school really were! At the East Anglian Yarn Festival this weekend, the number of women talking about being taught to knit at the age of 7 by grandparents, was a repetitive story.
In a world that often moves too fast, the act of creating something by hand is both a gift and a legacy. Whether it’s knitting a sweater, sewing a quilt, or making a piece of jewellery, these acts of creation are about more than just the end product. They're about passing down knowledge, love, and a sense of connection. It’s the quiet moments spent learning on a grandparent’s lap, the feeling of thread slipping through fingers, or the first time you carefully form a shape with clay. These are the memories that stay with us—and they are the roots of a creative legacy we can pass forward.
When we support makers—whether through a simple purchase or a kind word—we become part of that story. Supporting handmade businesses isn’t just about buying goods; it’s about celebrating creativity, craftsmanship, and the stories behind each piece. By encouraging artisans and small businesses, we’re keeping traditions alive, honouring the value of slow, thoughtful work, and helping ensure that these skills aren’t lost over time.
Creativity opens up a world of possibility. It empowers us to imagine, to make, and to transform. And this doesn’t just happen in the studio or at the workbench—it happens in the lives we touch. When we pass on the lessons we’ve learned—whether it's teaching a child to sew, or sharing a simple craft—it’s more than just a skill. It’s about giving them the freedom to dream and create, to see the world through the lens of possibility.
But what if you want to support creative makers but
don’t have the budget to make a purchase? There are still plenty of ways to show your support and help build a legacy for makers. Small businesses often thrive on word-of-mouth and the love shared by their communities. Here are a few ways you can help without spending a penny:
Leave a Google review – A glowing review can make all the difference for a small business trying to be found.
Engage on social media – Like, comment, and share posts from your favourite makers. It spreads the word and helps them grow their reach.
Recommend to friends and family – Word of mouth is priceless. Share the names of makers and small businesses you love with those around you.
Talk about them to others – A casual conversation or mention can be just what a small business needs to gain a loyal customer or fan.
If you would like to do one of those things for me, I would be really grateful! Click here to leave a google review, or just click reply and then I can add the review to my website. If someone is looking for a mother's day present, perhaps you can mention my jewellery and if you are chatting with a friend about their sewing, or painting or creative hobby, perhaps you could talk about my hobby that got out of control and has resulted in my very own shop!
By sharing our stories and supporting one another, we’re creating a ripple effect—a legacy of creativity and care that extends beyond what we make. Whether it’s passing down a skill or simply supporting the next generation of makers, every little act counts.
What kind of legacy do you hope to pass on? In a time when so many things are mass-produced and fleeting, supporting the artisans who pour their heart and soul into their craft is one way we can ensure the value of handmade items endures. It's a beautiful way to pay it forward, and I’d love to hear how you’re making an impact—big or small.
