TV 'dream come true' as Kettering designer takes on Kirstie's Handmade Christmas challenge

Laura Pack, owner of business Dottie + Olive, took part in challenges in Channel 4’s Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas 2024.

Pitting her talents against three other crafters, Laura was tasked with creating a hamper filled with handmade gifts to perfectly embody the spirit of Christmas.

An expert in Terrazzo, Laura’s creations use a composite material to make designer houseware – a skill she brought to the show.

She said: “It was an unforgettable experience. The challenge was both thrilling and nerve-wracking, but the best part was seeing everyone’s unique approaches to the task. We all brought our creativity, passion, and a little bit of festive magic to the table.”

Laura made a terrazzo-themed Christmas hamper, admitting she was pushed out of her comfort zone in ways she ‘never imagined’.

She said: “I decided to create a new home terrazzo-themed first Christmas hamper, combining my love for modern design with the warmth of a traditional holiday gift.

"Terrazzo is such a fun and versatile medium, and I thought it would be perfect for creating a contemporary, stylish twist on the classic Christmas hamper.

"My hamper included handmade items that a couple could enjoy as they celebrated their first Christmas together in their new home — from personalized terrazzo coasters to festive home décor. The whole process was both challenging and fulfilling, and seeing everything come together on screen was such a rewarding experience.”

Filmed in Dumfries House, in the Scottish countryside, the historic home provided the ‘perfect backdrop’ for the filming.

She said: “It was an absolute dream to film there, and the setting really brought the magic of the experience to life.

“One of the things I love most about creative challenges is how they push me outside of my comfort zone. Filming for Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas was no exception.

"Not only was I working on a project that I had never done before, but I was also being filmed and asked to talk about my process in front of the camera.”

The show’s crafters have now become firm friends sharing tips and ideas – and Laura has praised host Kirstie.

She said: “Filming with her was an absolute joy. She has such a warm, genuine funny personality that made the whole experience even more enjoyable. Kirstie was not only a fantastic host but also a brilliant source of encouragement and support throughout the entire process. Her love for crafting and the Christmas season is contagious, and it was so inspiring to spend time with her and see how passionate she is about handmade creations.

“I can’t recommend it enough. It truly was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I’m so grateful to have been part of it.

“As we approach the festive season, I’m already feeling inspired and ready to tackle more crafting projects. I can’t wait to share my creations with you and spread a little handmade Christmas cheer.”

Watch Laura on Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas 2024 on Wednesday, December 11 2024 on Channel 4, at 5.30pm.

For more information about Laura and Dottie + Olive go to https://www.dottieandolive.co.uk/.