I’ve been having a bit of a creative block recently, so when Makerly got in contact with me about reviewing one of their subscription boxes, I jumped at the chance.
Although I’ve never actually been subscribed to any kind of subscription box I have been tempted at times to subscribe to a crafty one because I just love the idea of trying different crafts and techniques, and being sent everything you might need for a crafty project. There’s also something exciting about each box being a mystery, so that it’s only when you open it that you discover what you’ll be making that month. So, I was pretty thrilled to be asked to do this review, and before I continue, I should point out that I was sent this kit for free to review, but that despite this, this review is all my own, honest opinion.
From the point of email to delivery, Makerly were really helpful and timely, and when I received my box, I was seriously impressed by the quantity, and quality, of the materials you get. The box I got was for a ‘March Hare’ sewing project, and if I’m completely honest, I am not all that skilled, and therefore enthusiastic, about sewing. It’ll come as no surprise then, that the prospect of attempting to sew material together to create something 3D, was quite intimidating, and before this I would have bet money on me not being able to complete this project. Luckily, Makerly provide instructions in each kit, which have pictures (thank god!), and steps that make sense and are easy to follow to the sewing novice (me).
When I opened the box, I loved the confetti that greeted me, as well as a welcome message and a pretty March hare postcard. As I said before, the box contains everything you might need for the project, and in this kit, I got a bag of fluff (to stuff my hare), a variety of fabrics and felts, needles, pins, a whole bobbin of thread, an embroidery hoop and an envelope of ribbons, buttons and bows. All I needed of my own was a pair of scissors and a pen, and all of the tools that were sent I’ll be able to use again for another project. I was sent plenty of felt, and so I was really able to go to town making my flowers, and I of course couldn’t resist having a play and putting my own spin on them. I ended up making daffodils, and roses, which were super easy to create, but which I’ll be sure to share the tutorial for on here at some point.
Having had a look at the website, there appear to be a variety of different subscription options, ranging from £15 per box for a monthly subscription, £13.33 per box for a 3-monthly subscription or 6-monthly subscription and £12.50 per box for a yearly subscription. I’d say I would have spent at least £15 (probably more) on the materials for this project had I gone out and got them separately, and I would likely have had an excessive amount of material left, so these boxes not only feel good value, but practical and convenient.
Although I’m still not, and likely never will be, the most enthusiastic of sewers, this project has shown me how cathartic it can be and has definitely grown my confidence and belief in my sewing skills. All in all, I’d say this was pretty successful, and I would highly recommend this subscription box to my fellow crafters. To grab your own, or to get one for a friend, head over to the Makerly website.
Thank you to Makerly for making this review possible.
