'You can take risks with your traditions'

British television presenter and crafter Kirstie Allsopp discusses the legacy of Kirstie's Handmade Christmas, which is coming to Channel 4 this week

- 

Kirstie Allsopp believes it's important to create inspiring television that makes people feel goodespecially during the run-up to Christmas.

When the first episode of Kirstie's Handmade Christmas aired in December 2014, the 54-year-old British Location, Location, Location co-presenter set out to champion the value and joy of crafting and encourage viewers to embrace a less-commercialised festive season.

But Allsopp, who also co-presented Relocation, Relocation with Phil Spencer, never expected the Channel 4 daytime series to take her across the country, where she has had the privilege of meeting people from completely different walks of life.

For this year's special of Kirstie's Handmade Christmas, Allsopp and her team are focusing on the power of collaborating with our friends and family during the festive period.

So once again, Allsopp has enlisted the help of a few crafting experts to get stuck into all things crafting, to create bespoke paper ornaments and raku baubles.

To ensure viewers are equipped with the necessary cooking tips and tricks, Allsopp will share a few new Christmas dishes, while the Kirstie And Phil's Love It Or List It co-presenter also indulges in a cocktail or two.

Allsopp will also take viewers on a special trip to one of her favourite antique shops, where she will gather inspiration for her Christmas party table, as well as ideas for other handcrafted decorations. Ahead of the show's release, Allsopp discusses what has kept her going over the past 10 years and the mental health benefits of crafting.

You've been doing this show for more than 10 years. What has kept you going?