Lisa Congdon has crammed a lot into her relatively short career as an artist. She has published over a dozen books, worked with clients such as the Museum of Modern Art (MoMa), maintained a blog, conduct classes and developed a line of ever-growing products.

There is no better time to get crafty and add a personal touch to gifts or decorations than Christmas. Let your imagination go with fabric, scissors, string and bits of nature and you’ll be surprised at what you can create. Here are a few little ideas to help you get started. Don’t be shy, dive straight in! STOCKING A homemade stocking is an easy one to start with. Simply cut two stocking shapes, leave an opening and sew the fabric together. Trim with faux fur, ribbon or consider personalising for every member of the family. This is a cute and thoughtful present that you could stuff with something a little extra such as pyjamas or be a stand-alone gift.  ...