I still pinch myself regularly that I get to follow my passion and run my own business, Bear and Goose Designs success is entirely down to the great community of followers and fellow makers and designers that choose to support me by liking, commenting and commissioning me to make surface patterns or custom illustrations.
@m2mfabrics 
@rudiandbear 
@badgerandbearshop
I love supporting my fellow work at home mums by choosing them to make unique pieces for myself and my little one using the surface patterns I’ve designed. Paying back into these small businesses just gives me such a happiness boost over choosing mass produced items. It will likely cost more to shop this way, however by shopping more consciously and buying second hand and up cycling items I already have allows me to squeeze my budget to allow for these handmade treats. The same goes for toys, I’ve always been a bargain hunter, but I really love finding second hand items for my little one, as it appeals to my eco conscience and allows for the occasional handmade wooden toy like Rainbow Ned above.
#showusyourhandmade
So I’m hosting a giveaway this week, starting tomorrow to challenge you other handmade fans to share your favourite items from the makers that you’d love everyone to know about in the lead up to Christmas. Head over to the bear and goose designs instagram and keep your eyes peeled for the announcement. Instead of spending your hard earned cash with a large store where that money will be a drop in the ocean, consider shopping small, where it will mean so much more. And if you’d like some ideas – search instagram with the hashtag #showusyourhandmade for the challenge entries.
I’m really looking forward to seeing all the entries!!
Drop me a comment here if you find any new makers you love, I’d love to see who’s being discovered.