about us

 

My name is Ann and I am a traditional upholsterer, breathing new life into antique and vintage furniture using traditional methods and materials.

 

I believe in recycling, upcycling, repurposing (whatever you like to call it!) and minimising waste.  So much gets thrown out that could have a new use.  I apply this to off-cuts of fabric from my upholstery work which I turn into a number of craft items.

 

Several years ago I also started making keepsake bears.  Initially this was with just children's clothes - most parents have some hidden away somewhere that they never look at but want to keep - and it expanded into all sorts of clothing fabrics and even a table cloth!

 

This part of my business felt like it should have its own identity so Cariad Keepsakes was born.  Being based in West Wales, I wanted the name to reflect this.  The word "Cariad" means love and is used as a term of endearment which seems apt for these adorable bears and the treasured memories they represent.

 

In 2017 I expanded the business to include one of a kind, collectable bears made from gorgeous wool fabrics.