Lara Sparks pirate ship cushion

Embroidered cushions are ten a penny in high-street stores these days, but you can’t beat a handmade original. I spied Lara Sparks’ designs on a stand at MADE, an annual craft fair in Brighton, where I always seem to unearth a few treats. My favourite is this adorable jolly pirate ship complete with portholes, anchor, bunting and seagull perched on the prow, £39, but I also love the quirky creatures of ‘Animals at the Zoo’. Plus, at £4.50, Lara’s fun felt and button brooches would make great stocking fillers for older girls.

Tagged animals, cushions, handmade, Lara Sparks, pirate theme