Zapateria 2019

Yesterday, I joined a bag-making workshop at Zapateria Marikina. I was mentored by Mariel Manalansan, a KL-based Filipino leather craftsman and teacher.

I enjoyed the workshop, and I was able to make my own shoulder bag! I met new friends, got to eat delicious tapsilog at Tapsi Ni Vivian, and support my grade school classmate Unyx’s creative co-working hub. It was a privilege to make something by hand and explore the shoemaking capital of the Philippines.

My creative journey has only just begun!

The Attic Adventure

Yesterday, I was invited to visit The Attic Yarn and Craftery in Marikina City. 

I’ve been a client of this local yarn store ever since I began knitting and reacquainted myself with crochet last year. After buying their yarns at The Craft Central, I have since directly ordered from them online. Since then, I’ve become their friend in real life. 

It was a dream come true to step inside their cozy “attic” space. There were yarns everywhere!

It was heaven on earth! 

The owners, Tita Ces and Ceryl, are vintage fans. I especially marveled over their refurbished typewriters. 

I received a lovely handmade present from the owners. 

I also ate lunch with them and had the best tinapa pasta I’ve ever had (so far).

For dessert, we had flourless chocolate cake from a local pastry shop. 

It was to die for.

It was wonderful to see their yarns and winders in person. 

More than having the pleasure of buying from them directly and not paying for shipping this time around, it was the friendship that I have fostered with Tita Ces and Ceryl that I truly treasure. I had a magical day, and I’m sure that this won’t be the last time that I will visit them in Marikina. 

Friends and hobbies like knitting and crocheting make life sweeter!