Do you remember Margo from the Good Life? She was my favourite character - very glamorous and very uptight. Well in this case Love Margo refers to the luxurious knitwear company headed by Catherine Hallinan. It’s so called after the hypothetical daughter of Tom & Barbara Good (of course named after the original Margo). The collection’s ethos is about getting away from the scrum of shopping and instead choosing more carefully and less frantically. A bit like Tom really, leaving the rat race to live ‘the good life’.

Each garment is designed and knitted by Catherine in 100% Italian merino wool. I love the Ava and Evie cardigans. You can wear them in two different ways. Either hip length with a big scarf neck or longer (to cover your bum) and with a shorter scarf neck.

Shop online at www.lovemargo.co.uk.

Oh, and if you’ve never heard of Margo or The Good Life check it out here.

I’m always looking for handmade products that have been recycled. Not only are they more eco-friendly but they’re an instant talking point.

This gorgeous knitwear is made by ThinkingMama. Each piece has been reconstructed from old sweaters and then felted to give it a soft and fuzzy texture. Many of the pieces have a science or nature theme. I love the coffee sleeve with the caffeine molecule.

Check them out at www.thinkingmama.etsy.com.

If like me you’re feeling the cold at the moment, beat the chill with cheery mittens and scarves by Blue Sky Knits. The beautiful folk motif patterns have been handed down by generations of knitters in rural Maine and Canada. These were knitters who knew how to make the best of cold conditions. The diamond and wave patterns are a blend of influences ’ from Norway, Ireland, Scotland and the Shetland Islands.

The double strands of yarn used to create colour patterns result in an extra layer of warmth. And because the mittens are lightly felted, they are especially durable, soft and cozy.

Stock up now at www.blueskyknits.etsy.com. UK buyers need to convo for shipping costs.

After a lazy, slovenly Christmas, this morning’s alarm call was a real shock to the system. And what a cold, dark and windy morning. But never mind, these snugly, stylish hats are sure to lift your spirits and warm your cockles. Hand knitted by Raye Broxap Crafts and modelled by the glamorous Gloria, each jaunty topper is made from luxury wools and yarns with pretty buckle and button embellishments. Mix and match with a funky, quirky handbag.

Go to www.rayebroxapcrafts.co.uk.

To kick off the New Year, I thought I’d share some of my Christmas gifts. I’ve been very lucky this year and received lots of lovely presents. Here are just a few with an indie / crafty theme.

Beautiful cherry cake tea cosy by my talented sister, Cassie Oldham. Cassie doesn’t have a website as yet but you can direct any enquiries via the blog.

Gorgeous handmade bag by one of my favourite bag designers, Francesca Salvini. Thank you mum.

I’ve wanted to have a go at making my own soap for ages. So thank you to my thoughtful husband for these Soap and Bath Bomb starter kits. You can find them at Fred Aldous.

What was in your stocking?