MEATH mother-of-two Johanne Maher is one of the new breed of “mumtrepreneurs” fighting the recession from their spare bedrooms and creating cool, affordable ways to update our homes.

Self-taught – she learned how to sew through U Tube tutorials – she sells her very stylish Matoloki Cushions, which include Day of the Dead and retro-inspired designs, at Dublin Flea and The Ferocious Mingle Market, both of which are held in the Dublin Co-Op building on Newmarket Square in Dublin 8. The cushions have an envelope backing, like a pillow case, and can be machine washed. The large format, 18in sq, costs €13 each or €24 for two. The small scatter cushions are 14in sq and sell for €8 each or two for €14. Catch her this Sunday at Mingle or at facebook.com/matolo.