AN Oakworth woman is using her crafting skills to raise money for charity.

Since Jeanette House launched Stitch4Charity West Yorkshire a year ago, she has coined-in over £1,000 through making and selling a variety of bags, cushions and other items.

Wherever possible, she uses recycled or donated fabrics – to produce everything from purses, pencil cases and handbags to personalised, embroidered cushions, including book cushions.

She has also created specially-commissioned goods, such as a music case now being used by a choir in New Orleans and a Harris Tweed bag for a client in New York.

Jeanette has even posted embroidered cushions to Poland.

“Quality wool and Tweed are particularly popular,” she said.

All proceeds from sales go to Sue Ryder hospice Manorlands, at Oxenhope, and other causes in the area.

Jeanette’s output also includes palliative care syringe bags for the local NHS community care team.

And she gives talks to groups about recycling and reducing fabric waste.

Jeanette worked as a therapeutic artist and teacher, but after a life-changing illness decided to focus on her craftwork.

“My son Matthew – of Matts Headroom in Oakworth – was raising funds for Manorlands and I decided to support him by sewing items,” she said.

“I enjoyed the challenge of design and creativity so much that I established Stitch4Charity West Yorkshire. All the proceeds from any sale are donated to charity – I do not claim any expenses.

“Some of my paintings are printed onto fabric, which I then make into items, plus I use recycled silk to create applique wall hangings or to incorporate into bags or cushions.”

Jeanette can be contacted via Facebook at stitch4charityWY, by e-mailing stitch4charitywy@mail.com or calling 01535 602484.