Our Vibrant Summer Issue is Bursting With Stories of Creativity and Connection

Many of us find solace in making, whether music, artwork, garments or a garden. Art has always been therapeutic for Holly Neilson of Paper Hands; losing herself in playful, dreamlike watercolours allows her to process emotions and find peace in moments of stress. “The act of painting gives me space to explore my inner landscape when words sometimes cannot,” she says. “I am lucky that art has always been a safe space for me to be me, without any worry of judgement. 

For our cover artist, Jess Bird, making was a means to escape a chaotic home life in childhood. Later, while drowning in depression, it became a way to forge connections and discover if others felt the same. Referring to painting as her “emotional homework,” Jess believes art helps us better understand ourselves and others, which is healing. 

The Happy Hookers research paper mentioned in our crochet feature backs up what we already suspected about slow crafts and wellbeing: findings from this international study report that crocheting made respondents feel calmer (89%) and happier (82%). Co-author Dr Pippa Burns notes the hobby’s low cost and portability, which makes it something most people can try. “The potential impact is huge,” she says. 

This got me thinking about my own hands-on hobbies, and while they are plentiful – and not always practical – the ones that stick are those I can take anywhere: the pencils and notepad, the embroidery hoop, the colouring book. So, whether or not you have a sewing machine, you can be a maker with very little means. Start with something you can throw in your beach bag – along with your copy of our summer issue, of course, where there’s no shortage of ideas for your next project.

Sam (Peppermint Editor) x

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In the pages of this colourful companion you’ll discover the gorgeous work of our cover artist, Jess Bird (of Bless The Messy), see the dreamy garden studio of Holly Neilson (of Paper Hands), and learn to op-shop like a pro with thrifty tips from circular fashion stylist Jo Gambale. 

Our sewing coordinator, Laura, discovers the joys of intergenerational learning and shares a fun and versatile Posy Patch Pocket DIY. We go “behind the seams” with Kip&Co and also explore the stunning work of the Yarrenyty Arltere Artists. Plus, sustainability advocate and entrepreneur Lottie Dalziel from Banish shows us how she turns plastic waste into pretty and practical products.   

We all look for the ‘great’ people to rise, when it’s often just everyday individuals that have the courage to stand up and do something.

LOTTIE DALZIEL

We check in with the cool kids of crochet, discover Noosa’s eco cred and delve into the perils of polyester.

And, of course, this also means our gorgeous new pattern has landed – introducing the Peppermint Pasadena Rara Skirt! With three fabulous tiers, this midi-length skirt is all drama. Wear it with a floaty, feminine vibe or an edgy energy – the Pasadena Rara Skirt gives you the freedom to express yourself. This pattern comes free with Issue 62! 

This issue is a little ray of hope in an often messy world. Remember to be gentle with yourself and others – we’re all doing the best we can.⁠ To get your copy, swing by our online shop or your closest stockist.