Our Story

Dave and Andrea of MTNestCrafts Mini lampshade fairy lights made from recycled materials Ghost style mini lampshade fairy lights

Andrea

I’m Andrea, a recycler of rubbish and founder of MTNestCrafts, a small eco-focused business. I spend my time turning waste materials into beautiful gifts that have a use in the home.

Back in 2010 I rescued a pile of shot glasses from the bin at a local cider festival. That was the beginning of my creative recycling journey. Influenced by the huge lanterns hanging in the trees at my favourite festival, I set about making miniature versions for my daughter’s campervan.

They were a hit with friends who encouraged me to make more. Fast forward to 2016 — due to debilitating migraines — I retired from working as a TA in my local school and started my own small business turning waste materials into lovely gifts.

This allows me to work when I am feeling well and not to feel so guilty when I can't. Fast forward to the present day and I am still here, making unique, vintage-style lampshade fairy lights and bottle lights — repurposing rubbish and saving plastic from landfill.

Dave

The husband, the dad, the practical one. Dependable, funny, kind — and endlessly patient with my constant hoarding of "useful" bits and crafty mess.

When he’s not repairing lifeboats he is often found in his garage, beavering away…

Here are a few of his projects…

Copper creations handmade by Dave

We try to use as many recycled materials as possible and work closely with local businesses and neighbours who save items for us that would otherwise end up in landfill.

From bottles and festival cups to paper, fabric and wood — every piece tells a story and helps reduce waste.

Sustainability Awards

MTNestCrafts has been recognised for its commitment to sustainability: reusing and reducing waste.

Level 1 Sustainable Business Award Level 2 Sustainable Business Award

Every item we make is created slowly, thoughtfully and with sustainability at heart. Thank you for supporting handmade and helping us save things from landfill.