The closest I get to making resolutions is a vague list of new things I’d like to try by the end of the year, and I’m happy if I manage to cross off a few. Since I have a pretty substantial craft To-Do list there’s no point adding a resolution list on top. So what’s on my vague want list?

1) I want to paint more. More people portraits. More cat portraits. I’ll continue going to classes, but I’m also going to try painting every Wednesday nights. I’ve invited friends to come join me in our studio, both for the company and because it’ll make me get away from the tv and do it!

2) Last year I wanted to try some new weave structures, and I achieved that mainly thanks to Ilka White’s weaving sessions class. I’m continuing that aim into this year.

3) I also want to spin, sew, embroider, machine knit, dye, print, make jewellery and try new crafts. Weaving is my main hobby now, but I’ll always dabble in others to keep things fresh and fun.

Whatever I do, the health of my back takes priority. I have to avoid too much sitting down and typing or extending my arms, and the best approach I’ve found is to move from task to task every half an hour or so: sitting for one, standing for the next, then doing something that gets me moving like gardening, walking or swimming.

And, of course, once my summer ‘leave’ is over, writing goes back to having priority over craft and art.