Craft Life

I have always felt an affinity with animals. To me, they are not lesser beings, nor are they insignificant. I’ve always been aware that every form of life—be it animal, insect, bird, or plant—has its own intricate existence, deserving of respect and appreciation. The complexity of the natural world is something we are only beginning to understand, and I am often struck by how much there still is to learn. Beaded Felt Butterfly by Parade Funky Felt Gifts by Parade - The Collection One of my earliest significant memories is of a little puppy. It was early in the morning...

Weddings are such a joyful occasion, aren’t they? And if someone close to you is planning one—whether it’s your child, grandchild, niece, or godchild—it’s only natural to want to help in some way. You may already have plenty of wedding experience of your own, or you might be watching all the new trends from the sidelines, wondering how things have changed over the years. Either way, this post is for you—someone who cares deeply about the person getting married and, given the opportunity, is keen to offer calm, kind, and useful support as they plan their big day. Lapanda Desgins...

Some people love a big wedding. What’s not to love, right? The grandeur, the guests, the endless details coming together in one big celebration. But is a big wedding really for everyone? I have thoughts on this subject. If you and your partner have always dreamed of a large wedding and can afford it, then go ahead – it’s your day, and that’s wonderful! The only potential problem might be not knowing enough people to fill those seats. But what if you love the idea of a big wedding but don’t quite have the budget to match? Or perhaps you...

March always feels like the perfect time to start thinking and talking about flowers and nature. As the seasons shift, I also find myself drawn back to designing bold, beautiful earrings for my Lapanda Designs collection. These aren’t the subtle kind—lightweight, yes, but designed to make a statement. I know not everyone is a fan of big earrings, but for those of us who love a splash of colour and a touch of drama, they’re an absolute joy. Maybe it’s because I’ve always had big hair, but I feel like now is the moment to leap off my typing perch...

There’s something undeniably enchanting about horseshoes—their rich history, their deep-rooted symbolism, and the sheer magic of their craftsmanship. The image of a blacksmith at work, shaping glowing metal on an anvil amid a shower of sparks, evokes a sense of timeless dependability and tradition. Horseshoes have long been associated with luck, making them a cherished token for weddings and other special occasions. Wedding Horseshoe: Classic Gold with Crystal Drop At Parade Handmade, horseshoes have always been a customer favourite, thanks to the stunning range supplied by Liffey Forge in Dublin. These beautifully crafted, worn horseshoes have inspired waves of interest...