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This article from Quilting Arts Magazine provides instructions for creating miniature fabric houses as a creative project. The author emphasizes the appeal and charm of using small fabric scraps to evoke feelings of nostalgia, security, dreams, and wishes. The materials needed include various prefused fabrics, embellishments like ribbon and beads, fusible webbing, felt or thin batting, and a small canvas or wood board for mounting. The article provides step-by-step directions for assembling the house, adding details, and finishing the project. Optional techniques such as painting and handwork are also suggested. The article includes several color photos showcasing different examples of these miniature fabric houses. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the author's experience with creating art quilts and the concept of working in a series. The author initially struggled with the idea of working in a series, preferring to move on to new ideas and techniques after completing each artwork. However, they accidentally created a series of small houses made from fabric scraps, which gained popularity and became a cottage industry. The author then expanded their series during the COVID-19 pandemic, creating larger houses that represented various emotions and moods. The article suggests that major life events, personal passions, or specific inspirations can lead artists to create series. The author reflects on their current series and expresses uncertainty about future series, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of creativity. [Extracted from the article]

Social work assessments underpin support plans for many people living with dementia in their own homes in England, but it is unclear how they acknowledge that dementia places people at greater risk of mouth and dental problems affecting their wellbeing. We explored if and how dental needs are addressed during care assessments and social workers’ perceptions of this aspect of personal care. This study analysed (a) semi-structured interviews with 14 social workers providing support to people living with dementia in their own homes, (b) data from 39 care assessments and support plans from two English local authorities. Interviews were recorded online, transcribed, and thematically analysed. Documents were analysed descriptively and presented visually. Participants acknowledged that oral care may be overlooked during assessments and reflected on various reasons, including assumptions of responsibility and role restrictions, limited training, and poor links with dental services. This was further evident in the analysis of assessment documentation. Participants identified potential strategies and practice changes to better integrate oral care in social work practice. These included increased awareness and more discussions around dental needs, skills training and streamlining of support. The findings have implications for social workers, educators, and commissioners or funders engaging with people affected by dementia in social work and beyond.