Mad hot We hit 35°C here in Wimbledon today, and if you’re wondering how to keep your house cool in a heatwave, I’ve got one tip that’s made a huge difference. Shut your curtains Seriously. And if you don’t have curtains? Hang a blanket over the window instead. It might sound odd, but wool is …
There is something deeply satisfying about cooking with vegetables that have been grown just a few miles from your kitchen, especially this Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Organic Leeks, Garlic and Feta. Supporting local organic farming means fresher food, fewer food miles, healthier soil and a stronger connection to the seasons. Farms like Sutton Community Farm …
There’s a very particular kind of disappointment that comes with spotting a tiny hole in a favourite jumper. (secretly I’m always quite pleased to see a small hole, as I love repairing knitwear!) Not dramatic. Not catastrophic. Just… quietly devastating. More often than not, it isn’t actually moths themselves doing the damage, it’s their larvae, …
Ali Clifford is a mentor to small businesses with a focus on purpose-led brands, craftspeople, artists, and charitable organisations. Read mentoring testimonials here. Ali is also a film maker and story teller, for clients such as the National Gallery (as part of their 200 Creators programme), Woolwich Works, Harriet Riddell, Madeline Meckiffe, goJauntly walking app, …
World Refill Day returns on June 16th – a Global Day of Action to spotlight reuse, refill, and return as real alternatives to single-use. I’m taking part in the #5DayChallenge from June 16th-20th: five days of simple swaps that show how reuse can fit into everyday life. Here’s how I am joining in: 🧴 Choose …
No idea where this phrase comes from “A stitch in time saves nine” – probably should do some research. BUT it’s something that I say a lot in the visible mending workshops that I host, as we all know how much easier it is to repair a wornout pair of socks, or a hole in …
My friend Paul gave me his very precious UES Denim Shirt, so very well worn at the elbows, there were holes as big as saucers! I wanted to give this project time and attention, as the shirt is so beloved to Paul and it must now be the most well travelled shirt. It’s been on …
CLICK here to subscribe to my newsletter to hear of new UK creative workshop dates Saturday 25th October 2025 – 10am – 1PM TICKETS HERE 📍Number 11, Ham Common, Richmond upon Thames, London. Sunday 2nd March 2025 – A day of visible mending and lunch hosted by Costume Designer Rosa Dias TICKET REQUEST HERE – …