I am deep in the midst of an autumnal project-starting binge.

In addition to the next Ark Project piece, a commission and a first attempt at drafting a flattering trouser block suitable for wearing while teaching Pilates, it’s time to start Dragon’s Birthday Costume.

He has decided on a sea turtle, and I thought I’d try to be brave and make it up as I go along.

It was going very well until I realised that, for the second year in a row, I’d bought the wrong kind of zip.

Of course, as a result of all the half-started bits and pieces, the house is in a bit of a state.

But I have the perfect solution. We’ll just invite some friends over, concocting a menu is just like starting a project, except this one comes with a built in tidying up step!