HAPPY FIFTH BIRTHDAY

I write features for a fabulous magazine called SELVEDGE which is as far from the fusty world of old-style arts and crafts magazines as it's possible to get. Editor Polly Leonard started SELVEDGE five years ago, after a rather racy knitting feature for the in-house Embroiderers' Guild publication got her fired from her job. It was Polly's chance to start the magazine that she'd always wanted to read - a publication that weaves together the worlds of textiles, fashion, design and interiors and creates something fresh. It's more like a book than a magazine, with captivating photos and illustrations that keep you flicking through your back-issues long after you've filed your latest copy neatly on the shelf. When I first visited the Selvedge "office" I was amazed to find the staff sitting cosily around Polly's large dining room table, every inch of space crammed with computers, contributors' copy, and cups of coffee! Polly is the true woman at the helm - the magazine is self-funded and manages to hook both the experts in the field, as well as aspirational makers and dreamers. Each issue sells 25,000 copies - not bad for a bi-monthly niche publication. It's now celebrating it's fifth birthday - long may it continue to inspire and delight. HAPPY BIRTHDAY SELVEDGE!