Meet the maker Leanne Garrity

A b o u t :

I'm Leanne Garrity, self-taught designer and maker of handmade accessories for my small independent fashion and lifestyle label, Chi Chi Dee Handmade. I'm currently based in London where I spend my time crafting from my home studio and freelance writing.

I love playing around with fibre and textiles. I like to mix and match colours, prints and textures depending on how I'm feeling. I don't often plan; I prefer to just start cutting, stitching or freestyle crocheting and see where I end up. I don't like to be too rigid when crafting, I find that often a 'mistake' can be turned into a unique feature and this freedom to explore means I never ever tire of making things!

I support upcycled fashion and get a big kick out of recycling textiles (that would otherwise end up prematurely in landfills) into new garments that are totally unique and send a positive message to the world. Often, these 'old' clothes are of exceptional quality and craftsmanship; it's amazing to see how, with a bit of love and imagination, they can shine again in new and exciting ways. I like to save left-over fabric bits and use them for small projects like pincushions or baby booties. The even smaller bits I use to stuff toys with. I'm even making a flokati rug with t-shirt strips at the moment - I don't like to waste even a scrap!

For me, 'handmade' represents an attitude to the world and a lifestyle choice. I'm proud to be involved in this current resurgence of traditional crafts; this shift back to a more creative, resourceful, hands-on, down-to-earth, eco-friendly and sustainable mentality.

To access my free crochet patterns, video tutorials and to see my upcoming London craft workshop dates, please visit:

www.chichideehandmade.blogspot.com

T e r m s & C o n d i t i o n s :

I genuinely want you to feel happy and satisfied with your purchase and for it to have been a personal experience rather than just another mindless, wireless transfer of money in exchange for material matter. Therefore I happily answer questions and take your ideas seriously; suggestions or requests are always welcome! Every one of my pieces is handmade with dedication and is something I would love to keep for myself. I take great pride in the quality and originality of my work.

First time buyers and Folksy-addicts alike, be assured that I will keep you updated at every step of the process so that you don't feel you've sent money into empty space! I am as anxious for you to receive your package as you are to receive it :o)

P a y m e n t :

Payment by Paypal is due upon purchase and your package will normally be posted within 48 hours of your payment clearing (sundays or public hoidays may slightly delay shipping). Please note that I have experienced a payment taking up to two weeks (!) to clear through Paypal and that I must wait for confirmation before I send any goods. Do let me know if you need your purchase urgently and I will always try my best to be as speedy as possible.

S h i p p i n g :

Royal Mail UK have increased their prices as of May 2012. I highly recommend combining items to save on shipping. I will always happily refund the difference if shipping turns out to be cheaper than quoted. You can read more about the price increases here: http://c435158.r58.cf3.rackcdn.com/Royal_Mail_Our_Prices.pdf

I ship by First Class Royal Mail.
Packages to mainland U.K. normally take 1-3 business days.
Packages to the E.U. normally take business 3-5 days.
Packages to everywhere else in the world normally take business 5-7 days.

My shipping prices do not include insurance, if you would like insurance please contact me before purchasing and I will quote you the additional fees (price varies depending on item size and weight). If for whatever reason your shipping or insurance costs turn out to be less than quoted I will always happily refund the difference.

I happily ship internationally but please note I cannot be held responsible for any duty fees incurred at your end, nor can I be responsible for wandering packages if you have not taken out insurance. Packages sent internationally do not automatically have a tracking number, unless sent by special recorded delivery.

R e f u n d s & E x c h a n g e s :

I try my best at all times to describe each item in my shop with the utmost attention to detail and I encourage you to read the description carefully. I also make a point to accurately represent the item from different angles with multiple photos, including a close up. If you are in any way uncertain about going ahead with an order then I also recommend you asking questions and, if necessary, requesting further photographs before making a commitment to purchase, so as to avoid any disappointment.

If you are unhappy with your purchase I will refund your money minus shipping fees upon my receipt of the returned item, provided it has not been worn and is in the same condition I originally sent it. Thank you for reading my refund policies.

F A Q s :

I love wholesale and custom orders! Please get in touch with any questions. I am happy to accommodate your requests.

Thank you for visiting Chi Chi Dee Handmade!

Leanne xx