Vote Today and get Free Starbucks Coffee?

Just a reminder to everyone that today is Election Day! Get out there and Vote if you haven't already! I Did!
Also did you know that several businesses are offering FREE perks to those wearing an "I Voted" sticker? Now, there’s no excuse not to vote!
Big businesses like Starbucks (coffee), Ben & Jerry’s (ice cream), and Krispy Kreme (star-shaped doughnuts with red, white and blue sprinkles) are handing out tasty treats!
Will you take advantage of the freebies?

Meet Margaret Nock of "Knit 1 for the Road" Fame

Welcome to our first ever Interview! I am pleased to introduce Margaret Nock, author of "Knit 1 for the Road". I first had the pleasure of meeting Marg through Ravelry, the online knit and crochet community. She is such an awesome business woman and talented lady! Her favorite thing is sharing her love of knitting and it shows in her new book! She takes her knitting everywhere with her, and that's exactly what inspired her to write "Knit 1 for the Road". Visit Knit 1 for the Road for Knit/Crochet Info, Video Links, Resources, Fun Links, Reader Gallery, Updates on "Knit 1 for the Road", and ROAD SIDE ASSISTANCE FOR KNIT/CROCHET!
I recently purchased a copy of her book along with a kit through her Etsy site, Margknittinaround, the place to find "Knit 1 for the Road", patterns, kits, and more! Here's a photo of the whole "Kit and Kaboodle" that I received from her.


You will even find signed copies of her book there. Please do pay her a visit and tell her that CafeCrochet sent you! ;)

And now without further ado. Let's welcome Marg to the Interview!

Hi Marg! It's a wonderful privilege to have you here with us at Cafe Crochet! Welcome!

CafeCrochet: Do you knit, crochet, or do both?

Marg: I do both and find it helps to make garments unique if you can add a nice crochet edging or combine knit and crochet in one project somehow.

CafeCrochet: How long have you been knitting?

Marg: Many, many years. My sister, Lea, was patient enough to start teaching me one summer when I was 8. I have a dedication to her and all the wise, crafty women who have come before us in Knit 1 for the Road.

CafeCrochet: What inspires your work/patterns/etc...?

Marg: I’m very inspired by color and texture, as are most knitters and crocheters. I see the yarn, and the pattern comes later. Many ideas come from nature, my current urban surroundings and a feel for the next trend.

CafeCrochet: Is there a famous knitter/crocheter that you admire and why?

Marg: Mary Walker Phillips was a fiber artist that really brought knitting to an art form and paved the way for many of us. That was the beginning of the revolution to destroy the myth that knitting and crochet could not be considered art. As an art student, I found her courage very inspiring. I admire many of the younger knitters and crocheters for pushing boundaries, creating community, and having a fresh point of view. The future of knitting and crochet is in good hands.

CafeCrochet: What would you say is your favorite type of yarn to work with?

Marg: Right now, I really like Filatura Di Crosa, any Noro, or Rowan yarn. I also like Rachel-Marie’s yarn (KnittyDirtyGirl.com) I have a project for her yarn in Knit 1 for the Road called Babies, Bobbles and More and one for Filatura Di Crosa called Wowza Wrist Warmers.

CafeCrochet: What type of needle do you prefer using?

Marg: I use bamboo most of the time, but it really depends on the yarn. I think you really just have to try different kinds and use what’s comfortable and affordable for you.

CafeCrochet: Any favorite projects that you enjoy knitting or crocheting?

Marg: I make many projects for my step daughters. They are my critics. If it passes their hipster test- it’s a winner. Scarves, hats, gloves, and wraps are my favorite. I’ve also made many totes and backpacks.

CafeCrochet: Was there a particular reason that inspired you to write your fabulous book?

Marg: The move to Pittsburgh in the winter, starting the blog, and receiving so many emails asking for knitting help led me to write Knit 1 for the Road. I wanted to create a basic portable book of patterns that could be used over and over as the knitter developed skills. A book that would help the beginner with construction, tension, and resources. The intermediate and advanced knitter could take the patterns and embellish them. I also wanted to include tips, resources and options for each project. I thought a lot about what I really needed as a knitter who traveled and took my knitting everywhere.

CafeCrochet: Do you have a favorite yarn color?

Marg: Periwinkle! (Bet you didn’t see that one coming)

CafeCrochet: Do you have other hobbies or enjoy other kinds of crafting?

Marg: I like making my own wrapping paper and cards. Painting is still something I enjoy.

CafeCrochet: Do you have a guilty pleasure? (chocolate, reality TV, etc...)

Marg: Right now it would have to be paranormal shows like Ghost Hunters, The Gilmore Girls still rock in syndication, and of course chocolate of any kind.

CafeCrochet: Please share 3 tidbits about yourself that you think our readers might find odd or interesting. (This is a fun one!)

Marg: I’m crazy about my two yorkies, Molly and Max, I love to collect beautiful tarot card decks, and my yarn stash is ridiculous!

CafeCrochet: Is there anything that I haven't covered that you would like to share with us about yourself or your work?

Marg: These were all soul searching questions! You really know how to interview. I would like to encourage your readers to keep their knitting and crochet close because it will get them through all the challenges on the roller coaster ride through life. Find community and share as much as you can through your needlecraft. Thanks so much for the interview, Christine.

CafeCrochet: Thank you for your participation Marg! It's been wonderful! We'll have to do this again sometime! =)

Margaret Nock can also be found blogging on Knit 1 for the Road's Blog
Knit 1 for the Road is also available on Amazon.com

It's Spinning and Weaving Week!

Did you know that this week, October 4 - 11, is actually celebrated as Spinning and Weaving Week?
The crafts of spinning and weaving are as ancient as our history; they are the ties that bind us to our ancestors and to each other. Our crafts don't know any national boundaries. They are a part of the heritage of our world. With this in mind, the celebration known as 'Spinning and Weaving Week' has been broadened to reflect the truly international traditions of our crafts. May all weavers and spinners around the world join together in celebration of our common heritage!

International Talk Like A Pirate Day

Click on the photos in this post
to see Larger Images

Sandi Luck ~ co-owner of Purlescence Yarns

Well, Friday Sept. 19 was International Talk Like A Pirate Day... I had no idea! Why had I never heard of this event before? ;)
Anyways, my LYS (local yarn shop) celebrated in style. Every year they celebrate Talk Like a Pirate Day there at the shop. So, Purlescence Yarns stayed open until 11:00pm since it fell on their Late Night Knits this time. They watched pirate movies all day long and into the night, and encouraged their friends and customers to wear costumes. I received an e-mail from them that read "Grab your eye patch and join us! Costumes encouraged!" Needless to say, I wasn't in costume! I didn't really have anything pirate-ish to wear on such short notice! lol

Sarah working on a project from the new Mason-Dixon Knitting book

All in all it was a nice time though. And I even made a new friend, Sarah, who gave me lots of knitting tips and recommended a couple of good knitting books to me, including the Mason-Dixon Knitting books. They have some pretty cool patterns in there that I would love to try out, once I get a little more experienced!

Saxony Reeves Spinning Wheel

I also couldn't resist snapping a photo of this Saxony Reeves Spinning Wheel that was on display near the front window, which had a price tag of $1,600.00 on it. (as well as a sign that read "Do Not Touch") I wonder why?
Well, I was going to add some more photos, but for some reason I'm experiencing some technical problems with the upload. So I'll save the rest for my next post!

Knitting Help is Here!

I spent Friday night at Purlescence Yarns for their Late Night Knits monthly get together. And it was there that I learned of this fabulous site! It's called KnittingHelp.com!
Now you can learn to knit by watching FREE knitting videos! So for all of you crocheters out there that have been afraid of the needles, go out and get yourself a pair and then learn a new skill the easy way: by watching! Start by learning the knitting basics such as Long Tail cast-on and the knit and purl stitches. Those three techniques make up the vast majority of any knitting project, so pat yourself on the back. You can do it!!! And these videos are so wonderful! It's like having your own private tutor!
From there you'll probably want to learn a couple of increases and decreases, and check out their knitting tips page. When you're ready for even more excitement, delve into some advanced knitting techniques. If you get stuck along the way or just want to chat with other knitters, drop by their friendly online knitting forum. If you haven't looked into knitting yet, you don't know what you're missing! It's definitely worth giving it a shot!

Scarves from the Heart

TIME FOR ANOTHER KNIT/CROCHET ALONG!!!

DO JOIN IN...HERE'S THE SCOOP.

I just found out about a wonderful organization that is helping cancer patients feel our love! It is called "Scarves from the Heart". Visit Shelly, the founder, and learn about how cancer has touched her life and her courageous efforts. This wonderful organization delivers your knit or crochet stylin' scarf to cancer patients in need of comfort and love. Keep'em soft, warm and colorful. Color plays a major role in elevating a person's mood. Scarves for both men and women are needed. Definitely keep this wonderful organization in your mind and close to your heart this month - check your stash - check sales at your LYS (local yarn store) - and visit the site for more info.

I myself plan on knitting up a comfy cozy men's scarf as they are always in need of more scarves for men. Let me know if you plan on joining in. I'd love to post photos here on my blog of your finished scarves!

***Thanks goes to Margaret Nock (author of "Knit 1 for the Road") for sharing the info about this wonderful organization on her MySpace blog!

Hope you all had a Happy 4th of July!

But let us not forget why we can celebrate this day!

What inspires you to knit and/or crochet?

Do you ever get stuck while you're knitting? Or perhaps you have wondered how designers come up with so many unique and wonderful ideas for their knitting? Michele Rose Orne, a long-time knitwear designer, takes us on a journey through creativity, inspiration, and the birth and development of design from idea to garment in her new book, "Inspired to Knit". Follow the link below to read an excerpt and/or to order the book!



Inspired to Knit: Creating Exquisite Handknits


You can also Join the Inspired to Knit KnitAlong and Mood Board Project!
(join a creative bunch of folks working on a Mood Board Project inspired by Michele's book)

We want to know what inspires your knitting! Leave a comment here and share your inspiration with all of us!

Please take 30 seconds to get involved...

If you know anyone who has had a Mastectomy, you may know that there is a lot of discomfort and pain afterwards. Infact, a dear friend of mine back home had to have a double mastectomy just last year. Although hard to believe, insurance companies are trying to make mastectomies an outpatient procedure. Let's give women the chance to recover properly in the hospital for at least 2 days after surgery. Please take the time to make a difference! Please copy this to your blogs and/or send this to everyone in your address book. If there was ever a time when our voices and choices should be heard, this is one of those times. If you're still reading this, I hope you'll take 30 seconds to vote on this issue and pass it on to others you know who will do the same. There's a bill called the Breast Cancer Patient Protection Act which will require insurance companies to cover a minimum 48-hour hospital stay for patients undergoing a mastectomy. It's about eliminating the 'drive-through' Mastectomy where women are forced to go home just a few hours after surgery, against the wishes of their doctor, still groggy from anesthesia and sometimes with drainage tubes still attached. Lifetime Television has put this bill on their Web page with a petition drive to show support. Last year over half the House signed on. Please Sign the petition by clicking on the web site below. You need not give more than your name, state, and zip code. http://www.lifetimetv.com/breastcancer/petition/signpetition.php

PLEASE PASS THIS ON to your friends and family, and on behalf of ALL women, THANK-YOU!

Knitting Bags-Which One Should You Have?

By: Gina Williams
You will find a knitting bag is as important as any needle you use for knitting. These bags make your handy work easy to carry and portable. You should always have a good knitting bag which will cater for your knitting needs. It is vital before you purchase a bag, that you make sure it has all the special compartments for your needles, yarns, that you will need.

When choosing your knitting bag, always keep in mind the type of work you will be undertaking. If you decide to make sweaters, such as Afghans, then you will need a much larger one than if you were to decide to make socks, or other small items. When choosing a bag you should always keep in mind, that your bag will be used for carrying your knitting material from place to place, so the stronger the bag you decide on, the more objects you can carry.

If you wish it to serve a dual purpose, such as a knitting bag that also serves the purpose of a purse, then look for knitting bags which come in leather, or suede. There is a large variety available in to days market. Some of them are intricately designed, while the others are simple but smart looking. So you can choose a knitting bag that satisfies your mood or is a treat for an eye.

When choosing your knitting bag, you should always keep a track of the latest fashion and what will be your requirements. While shopping for one, it is always better to purchase a bag which has hard sides as it is easy to carry and more durable.

Instead of zippers always choose one which has a snap, this is so your knitting does not get stuck in between zippers. It also is always better to purchase one that has a pocket or two for keeping your accessories in. If you decide on buying a large one, then always better to buy one with purse length handles, this will make it easy to carry it on your shoulders, for comfort and ease.

If you are purchasing a small bag to carry knitting materials for smaller projects. Then you need to consider one that has soft sides, this is so that you can fit extra material in it, without harming it. A drawstring or a short strap will make it easier to wrap the bag around your wrist, while carrying. If you carry bigger bags then it is possible that some of your smaller items may get misplaced.

It is not necessity to buy a knitting bag, if you are enthusiastic enough then you can make one for yourself. You could knit a bag, or even make it out of fabric. You will also find there are a lot of free patterns to choose from, if you do decide to make one. You can use any type of fabric or material to make your bag, as long as you choose a fabric that pleases you and is strong enough to carry your load.

A knitting bag not only makes you mobile, but also provides an opportunity to show your talents and latest projects to all your friends and family. Whether you be at your friends, family's or at your home and people ask you about your latest project or your knitting talents, then you can easily teach them a stitch or two by carrying an extra needles and yarns in your knitting bag.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
“ This article was written by Gina Williams, an up and coming expert on Knitting. Did you find these knitting Tips useful? You can find out a lot more FREE information about Knitting by going to Free knitting Tips. ”

Charity Feature - Tails of Hope Foundation

Doris joins Tails of Hope Foundation in inviting
others to make and contribute more scarves.

The Tails of Hope Foundation, a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization uses the skills of knitters and crocheters to help pet owners in need. Their volunteers create scarves out of Fun Fur which are offered in return for donations, used to provide life-saving advanced veterinary care for companion animals undergoing cancer treatments.
Visit Tails of Hope Foundation to find out how you can donate knit and crocheted blankets of all sizes to be included in the Blanketed with Love^SM packages. They're collecting blankets to be used at veterinary hospitals to keep companion animals warm after they have received treatment for cancer or other life-threatening illnesses, and to be used by owners to keep their companion animals warm while transporting them home after such treatment. Please contact them if you would like to become involved in this great project or have blankets that might be appropriate for donation.

Tree of Life Knit-Along

Lion Brand Yarn is offering this pattern free for the next two weeks for anyone who would like to join the Knit-Along. Please click on the image to your left to get the pattern.



Are you in need of a good spring project? Look no further! The Tree of Life afghan designed by Nicky Epstein may be just what you're looking for! The Twin Trees and Flower Garden pattern is just beautiful!
Let's all join in on this group knit-along and work on this classic pattern together. Feel free to post comments here and share your progress along with links to photos of your project.

Feel free to use the knit-along badge above on your blog. (Right-click the image — or Ctrl+click on Macs — and select “Save As” to save it to your computer.) Just be sure to link it back to the Knit-Along page on Lion Brand...

Cafe Crochet now has a Social Network!

I actually set this Social Network up on Ning a couple of months ago, but hadn't gone live with it until now. I thought this would be a great way for us to get to know each other!
Visit theCafe Crochet Social Network now! Be the first to join!!! I look forward to hopefully getting to know you (my readers) through this... Leave me a comment here and let me know when you join! See you there!

Crochet Stitches and Techniques

I just found a wealth of information on where to Find Crochet Stitches and Techniques How-to Pages this evening at About.com:Crochet

Each "how-to" is by Sandi Marshall and has step-by-step photos or includes diagrams. She even offers a FREE newsletter! This site has so many wonderful tips and techniques showing in-depth details... It's definitely worthy of a bookmark for all you crocheters! Click Here to go there.

Additional links include:

Crochet Help For Very Beginners

Free Crochet Patterns Master List A-Z Links

Work of Our Hands

This evening I learned about a wonderful non-profit project in Namibia (Africa), Work of Our Hands, while reading through my most current issue of Interweave Crochet.
Valerie Garber thought her life was perfect in the spring of 2002: she had a loving husband, a great art studio and plenty of time to explore her passion for crafts. But, by the end of 2002 she found herself in Namibia...
After a few months of grieving her losses, homesickness, and wondering what she would do with herself in a country where it's hard to even find art supplies, she new she had to get a grip and make the best of things!

Suddenly, in Africa she had a thought "Maybe there's a reason for my eccentricity and for all the seemingly unrelated skills I have required over a lifetime. I can teach most any kind of art or craft skill". When she learned that most crafts being sold to tourists in Namibia were imported from South Africa, she wondered if there could be a market niche for craft products made by Namibians.
Work of Our Hands was born! The students chose to learn beadwork and today most of their beadwork is combined with crochet. Visit Work of Our Hands for more info and find out how you can help!

It's been a painful week...

I apologize to everyone for being away for so long! I have actually been recovering from a Very Painful infection... My right fallopian tube became infected about a week ago and I ended up in the ER with excruciating abdominal pain... As of today I'm feeling 100% better! I've battled with some female health issues for a couple of years now, but this was one of the worst episodes I've had in a awhile! So once again, I'm sorry for my absence, but I think I'm ready to get back to blogging again!
Look for more posts coming VERY soon as well as another "You've Been Spotted" spotlight! =)

myLot User Profile

Knit Houses?

I ran across these photos on Make Magazine's blog. What does the concept of a knit house tell us? Do we need shelter and warmth? These houses were actually knit as art projects over the last few years. Andrea Tung also blogged about these on her Making Things blog. She makes some interesting observations on the subject of knitting and how it's popularity is expanding into other forms of expression. "It's fascinating to see how knitting has been adapted for purposes other than a sweater. And it's become more talked about in general. For example, occasionally on the CBC, I would hear a story about knitting. I hope to see knitting become something as common as golf or gourmet cooking." I would also like to point out that the craft chain stores are declining. Yet the local boutique craft suppliers seem to be thriving. What is this saying about the relationship between craft and society? I think eventually we will be coining the phrase "luxury craft".

Pictured above: from the recent Knitting Site in London, the walls are knit from garbage bags, old plastic bags and rope.

Pictured below: "Cozy", by Janet Morton

"And while some people think knitting is to remain behind walls, we build walls that are knitted."

First Steps In Learning How To Crochet

If you are someone who has never crocheted before, you can learn the very basics with the resources at crochet.about.com If it's been awhile or you are ready to learn more, there are also links to help you brush up on skills or to learn more about crocheting. I've listed a few of the basics links below.

Learn to Crochet:

• How To Make a Starting Chain Step-By-Step Photo Tutorial

  Close-up photo showing what is meant by "2nd ch from hook", a crochet phrase used when beginning to crochet the first stitch made in a starting chain.

• How To Single Crochet - Learn In Easy Steps

Patterns Using Single Crochet:

• Easy Single Crochet Scarf Free Pattern
• Beginner's Dishcloth Free Pattern

• Easy Single Crochet Halter Top Free Pattern

The halter top is easy enough for a beginner.

It's all in single crochet. There are some decreases but with the How To Decrease In Single Crochet Photo Tutorial, you should have no problem with that. It was designed after seeing some online messages from beginners who were wishing for some beginner patterns that would be more interesting to crochet than most starter patterns already out there.

Next Stitch - Double Crochet

• How To Double Crochet
• 2nd Double Crochet of the Row (photo shows a close look at the place where the second stitch is made in a row of double crochet, with the turning chain counting as the first double crochet of the row)
• Making 2 Double Crochet All in One Place

• Making 3 Double Crochet in One Same Stitch

Getting Used to Abbreviations:

• Photo Showing Close Look at dc in ea of next 5 dc plus 3 dc in next dc for a shell. Seeing what it looks like can make it easier to understand what the abbreviations mean.
• Photo Showing Close Look at 3 sc in ch-1 sp (scroll down that page to see that photo)

Finishing

• How To Weave in Ends

• Ways of Joining Crocheted Pieces

Continuing To Learn New Crochet Skills

• Top Basic Crochet Stitches

The Directory page lists many tutorials on this site for learning both easy and advanced stitches and techniques.

• Stitch and Technique Directory

Happy Easter!

I ran across this image at Peep-Lovers (you have to love them!) If you visit the site, please leave a comment about the background picture, "peeps in a car"! She actually took the photo herself and posted it for everyone to enjoy!
I hope you all have a Very Blessed Easter... and don't forget the REAL reason for the season.

Helping the environment one candle at a time!

A Shameless Plug...
I just wanted to share with you a little about my newest business venture this evening. It doesn't hurt to mention it... and everyone loves candles! Right? I feel like I'm a mom on a mission!
I just joined an All-Natural Gourmet Candle business opportunity. I've always loved candles, but have only recently become more aware of the toxicity of burning paraffin wax. Most candles fill a room with toxic, carcinogenic smoke and soot. In fact, burning paraffin candles releases many of the same toxins as diesel fuel.
Here's a little background info on the process of making paraffin wax. It begins at the bottom of an oil barrel (the worst 5% or so that has been rejected by the gasoline industry). This by-product of crude oil is then mixed with another less-than-enticing substance known as industrial strength bleach. This is what gives wax its pleasant whiteness. As if that weren't enough, they then add stearic acid and a few other minor ingredients, and you have the very wax burning in most of your homes. Shocking isn't it?!
As soon as I became aware of these harmful toxins being released by paraffin wax I didn't want to expose my friends, family, or children to it anymore. That's why I was thrilled when I discovered an alternative non-toxic wax which is made from ingredients such as vegetables and other natural, renewable sources. It's entirely non-toxic and non-carcinogenic. It also burns practically soot free and it smells better than ANY candle I have ever smelled! Honestly!
The clean glass and absence of black soot on the inside of the candle-holder is definitely comforting, when it is considered that this soot is the same substance being breathed when a paraffin candle is burned.
Note: Many soy waxes are not what they seem to be. The law only mandates a small percentage of the wax to be soy-based in order to be called soy wax. Therefore many soy waxes are still made mostly of paraffin.
There are also many other benefits of using these delicious smelling organic candles. Apart from being a healthy alternative to paraffin, the scents smell true-to-life from top to bottom, and they burn SLOW and EVEN too (retaining their fragrance stronger and longer).
Last but not least, using these all natural waxes supports a renewable U.S. resource rather than an imported, limited oil supply. Let's support our U.S. farmers! Please visit my Organic Candle website to learn more about these wonderfully safe candles!

I also want to make mention of a movement taking place on March 29th. If you haven't already heard about Earth Hour, click on the banner below to visit the site. I have already signed up to take part in this global event!

Let's turn off the lights and light a candle instead!

Knitting Daily and the Free Pattern - Slouch Rib Cardigan

If you don't already subscribe to Knitting Daily's editorial e-mails, it would be well worth it for you to check it out! Today's post included a free pattern for the Slouch Rib Cardigan, which sparked quite a discussion on their comment board! The skill level is classified as Easy and can be made with negative, zero or positive ease, for either a slouchy fit or a more close-fitting fit.
Here it is depicted both ways.

Sandi (the editor) in the Slouch Rib Cardigan
wearing the sample garment with about 1.5 - 2" negative ease

slouchy with positive ease on the model

The pattern is a fast knit, thanks to size 10.5 needles and a bulky weight yarn. Plus, there's nothing harder than a k2tog and picking up stitches, so it's a great first sweater pattern. This may end up being my very first attempt at making a sweater just because of how easy it should be to knit up. But I do think it's a bit too tight on Sandi and a bit too slouchy on the model. Hmmm... wonder if I can find an in-between ground?
There's well over 50 comments already posted to the site... and what a variety of opinions on the topic of whether it looks better with positive or negative ease. Quite humorous comments at that!

• Lynette from Germany commented "Could you have found an uglier pattern?..."
• Katy commented "Sandi, the cardi looked a little too floppy in the original photo for my taste, but it looks *FABULOUS* on you."
• Nancy f commented "I think this is an incredible unattractive sweater no matter what the ease. The problem is the neckline doesn't look like it fits, and the ribbing does not match up on the front. With so man wonderful patterns at IK to choose from, I wonder why you chose this one."
• Brittani from AZ commented "I have to say that I love it with the negative ease! I just downloaded this pattern today, but I wasn't sure how it would look on me as I am definitely bigger than the model, but now I can't wait to start this, thanks for showing us Sandy."

That gives you a taste of how the comments are rolling in at Knitting Daily's website.
So... what do YOU think? Leave me a comment here and let me know your opinion on the matter! Let's see if we can get some heated comments going over here as well! LOL

Quote of the day

"The act of knitting is a meditation, for the work of the hands compels the mind to rest, and gives free rein to movements of the soul" -Author unknown

Susan Todd Designs

Susan Todd offers Sustainable Style from Recycled Sweaters. Her collection includes beautiful bags and nifty needleworks accessories. If you've ever wondered where that sweater went, which your great aunt gave you for Christmas in 1973... well, she's found it... along with many others. She has rescued forgotten wool sweaters from a big salvage house, washed and dried them and given them a new life! Her bags are roomy and have lots of pockets to fit all your needle needs, perfect for that on-the-go project. And forget the dry cleaners, all of her bags are machine wash and dry!

Susan launched her current line of bags in 1997. She then added her needleworks line when she realized that many knitters (including actress Julia Roberts) were using her very functional designs as project bags. Susan is dedicated to providing her customers with high quality bags and accessories whose allure and practicality will endure for years to come! Visit Susan Todd Designs today!

"It is great that I am using recycled materials.
We smile as we make each bag."

Susan Todd

Little Labyrinth

Darling little Tassel Hat in custom colours

I just found another wonderful fiber artist through Etsy, Amanda, a 25 year old SAHM (stay-at-home-mom) to two boys and two girls. Her children are the inspiration for all of her designs. She is also a professional children's photographer. She loves to knit, and she loves hats... so it's not unusual that her favourite things to create are knitted hats for little ones!

Stripey Stocking Cap in luscious soft wool/cashmere/silk blend yarns

Aren't these hats absolutely adorable? Not to mention, the baby photos are a delight! She really captured the moments with these shots!
While browsing through her shop, I also discovered a new doll! Lati Dolls! What a bonus! One thing I haven't shared on here before is that I also collect dolls! Hmmm... I may need to save up my pocket change for quite awhile though if I want to add this cutie to my collection!

This Lati doll is wearing a hand knit hood in 100% soft merino wool

All of Amanda's hats are made-to-order... Visit her Etsy shop, Little Labyrinth, to see more of her gorgeous creations! Hey Amanda, would you be willing to answer some questions for our first ever blog Interview? With 4 little ones, I'm sure she's got plenty of stories to share!

My FAKE magazine cover

I don't even remember how I stumbled upon this tonight, but it was too funny! I just had to share it with you! You can also Create Fake Magazine Covers with your own picture at MagMyPic.com
Have fun with it and enjoy! They have several different covers to choose from. Too bad they didn't have Interweave Knits or Crochet Today!
VOTE FOR ME HERE!

Freeform Crochet

"Homage to a Magpie "

Crocheted Fragments by Jenny Dowde

I'd heard the term freeform before, but only just this evening decided to do a little search on the subject to find out just exactly what it is all about. So what exactly is freeform? Freeform crochet is a form of art, like painting. The crochet hook is the brush and the yarn is the paint. The result can be abstract or realistic. Freeform is always one-of-a-kind and original in design, never a reproduction. There are no patterns to follow.
The outcome is not only functional, but can be quite beautiful as well. It's all in the eyes of the beholder. Freeform includes wearables, wall hangings, handbags, etc... Here are some links to Freeform Crochet websites worth checking out. Just click on the logos below.

Getting to know you!

I would love to find out more about you and what brought you here! So I've decided to add this little survey in order to do just that! If I get enough responses, I may even decide to have a contest from among those that participate! So, what are you waiting for? I'd love to get to know you! Click Here to take the survey!

Pilikana

My husband just launched his new project this evening! Pilikana.com is now live! This has been a work in progress for the past several months...

Does the word "pilikana" mean anything?

Show Answer

Why yes it does actually... Pilikana is a Hawaiian word that means "relationship". I really like the way it sounds myself! Wouldn't mind visiting Hawaii again either, but don't know if or when that will happen again! Anyways, now for all the details!

• 100% Free to join! Sign up today!
• Talk with other members in online chat or privately via instant messenger
• Instantly create your own personal profile with photos, video and audio
• Find singles in your area using our ZIP-code-based locating system

Pilikana is an online community where you can broaden your social horizons and meet a variety of people. Millions of singles all over the world will be drawn to Pilikana. Some seek casual relationships while others search for great friendships that will stand the test of time. Many seek something more serious along with a love that will last a lifetime.

So what are you waiting for? Go check it out for yourself! Click on the banner above!!!

"You've been Spotted"! - Midnight Sky Fibers

...because natural doesn't have to be boring

I actually "Spotted" Midnight Sky Fibers tonight while browsing about online! They are definitely worth a spot in our spotlight!!! They feature naturally dyed handspun yarns and fibers. They are located in the Pacific NW, but are currently an online only store.


Jenn is the fiber artist behind this whole shindig, the owner, creator, yarn labeler, dyer extraordinaire, and pretty much every other adjective that you can come up with for someone who dyes and creates yarns and fibery goodness. She documents it all on her blog.
Her shop consists of yarns, fibers, kits, and clubs that Jenn herself creates. What a talented lady, definitely worth some recognition!!!
I'm big on environmental issues myself, and Midnight Sky Fibers are as environmentally friendly as possible, using non toxic dyes and mordants, reusing water, and supporting other green businesses...
Be sure to pay them a visit to find out more about all they have to offer including Kits and Clubs.

Monthly clubs available:

• A sock yarn club featuring their own naturally dyed sock yarn.
• The fiber club for spinners and felters
• The handspun yarn club- perfect for knitting, crochet, weaving, and general crafting

Go check them out now! ...and as I always say, let's continue to Support our Indie Artists!

Ravelry

Yay! I finally received my Ravelry invitation from frecklegirl this morning! I had been placed on their waiting list after applying for an invitation awhile back. Ravelry is a website for knitters and crocheters. They are adding new folks as quickly as they can from their invitation waiting list... I am so pumped about being added to their online community! Now I have a place to go for all things knitting/crochet! Thanks a million Jess and Casey!

Knitting Bags

Do you enjoy knitting and crocheting on the go? Jordana Paige Knitting Bags might be the perfect solution! Jordana Paige believes that just as a woman's purse goes everywhere with her, so should her knitting. She's created a bag that will hold all the basics; wallet, sunglasses and phone, as well as a knitting project, tools and pattern. What more could we ask for??? Check out her website for a full selection of her unique knitting bags, to view some of her knitwear designs, and to learn about events and where to shop for her bags. You'll even find a nifty knitting tutorial there.

Changing Colors and Weaving in Loose Ends

Do you ever get frustrated when changing colors in your knitting or crochet? Do they always seem to come apart when you wash them? Here are some tips I copied from SweaterBabe's Blog to help preserve your projects (especially if they are to be washed frequently). Weaving in loose ends is the proper way to finish all knit and crochet items.

Always use the new color for the final “yarn over and pull through” of your last stitch. I also highly recommend that you leave a 6-8″ tail of BOTH the new and old color. These 6-8″ tails will be the loose ends that will hang from your work until you are ready for finishing. Then, they will be “woven” in at finishing to complete the project.

You can also tie the new and old colors together in a loose knot if you prefer (keep it loose so that you can undo the knot when you are ready for finishing). Otherwise, just leave them loose and any stitches next to the joining that need to be tightened can be tightened when the loose ends get woven in.

How do you weave in the loose ends? Thread each of the 6-8″ tails into a yarn/tapestry needle (a sewing needle that is made for yarn) and “weave” the needle into your knitted or crocheted fabric with the goal of hiding your needle (so that the loose strand will get hidden in your work). For instance, if your loose end is at the edge or your work, begin poking your tapestry needle into your work starting at the edge and working in or along the edge (depends on where it can best be hidden). As you poke your needle in the fabric, if you see large parts of your needle through your work, you should pull the needle out and try again.

The goal here is to really bury the yarn inside the fabric. For crochet fabrics, this is a bit easier due to the thickness of crochet. I often hide loose ends in the insides of a row of single crochet, or along the base of a row of double crochet stitches. For knitting, I often split the yarn and hide the loose end that way.

I recommend weaving in the loose end for about 2″ in one direction, then changing directions and weaving in the loose end another 2″. This sounds like a lot, but I believe it’s necessary to ensure that that loose end will never worm itself out enough to cause anything to unravel. This is especially important if the yarn is a slipperly silk or rayon blend.

Be sure to hide each loose end in its same color area. And if you are hiding loose ends near a seam, just hide the end in the inside of the seam!

Fiber Fiction!

Well, I just finished reading "A Good Yarn" by Debbie Macomber tonight. It was a wonderfully easy read and a very enjoyable book. You feel as if you know each of the characters personally and share the joys and pains that each one goes through. I loved that it was based on a yarn shop and the women that enrolled in the knitting class there. Fiber and Fiction! What an awesome combination! I love reading a good book, and especially one that envolves a "good yarn"! I can't wait to read her other 2 Blossom Street books now!

Gift Shop now Open!

I have decided to add a little gift shop where you will find links to my own handcrafted items on Etsy, my healthy coffee home biz, and a few of my affiliate links where you can get awesome deals on craft supplies... More shops will be added soon... I am also hoping to open my own virtual yarn store where I'll carry a variety of yarns, hooks, needles and accessories. So go check them out! If you're also a coffee lover, such as myself, you owe it to yourself to check out the Healthy Coffee site. There really is such a thing as healthy coffee!

My favorite new LYS

Well I finally made it over to Purlescence Yarns on Sunday and I'm so glad I did! It was a much needed fiber fix! I went over a month without shopping for yarn! Oh My! This is the first yarn shop I have visited since our move, and it's right down the road! The owners are the nicest "purl girls" I've met since moving here to Sunnyvale, CA! I was very impressed with their shop. They offer a wide variety of yarns, books and accessories. They were actually in the midst of an anti-Super Bowl party when I popped in. It was their "antidote to Super Bowl blues" and I thought it was great! I had a cup of New Guinea coffee (with a finger sandwich and a couple of tasty cookies) while I browsed their stash. I think I spent at least 2 hours in there!

I ended up buying a skein of Plymouth Yarn's Encore wool blend in the yummiest pastel pink I could find. I've already started knitting with it and a chocolate brown yarn that I already had. I'm making yet another scarf, but this one will be in my favorite brown and pink striped color combination.

They had some really nice finished products on display. One that caught my eye in particular was a Ribby sweater that is knit to fit ANY figure perfectly! I am so tempted to buy that pattern the next time I visit the store. It's a pattern designed by Bonne Marie Burns of Chic Knits.

I meant to take my digital camera with me to the shop, but I didn't get a chance to download the photos from it to make room for new ones before I left. So... next time I'll have to remember to do that first!

Crocheted Boots!

As I was waiting at the gate at the airport not too long ago, I noticed a woman that was wearing the most awesome pair of what appeared to be tall crocheted boots. I really should have asked her where she got them, but alas I just admired them from afar.

Anyways, ever since then I've wondered if there would be a way to make a pair for myself, because I Googled "Crocheted Boots" and found a couple of different brands, but they're quite pricey! Here are a couple of pictures to give you an idea of what I'm talking about:

UGG Australia's Classic Crochet Tall Boot (which I love)

and Sienna Miller's Crochet Boots (cute, cute, cute!!!)

If anyone out there has a pattern for this type of boot, and you'd like to share it with us, I'll post it right here for everyone to enjoy (giving you full credit of course)! I would absolutely love to have a pair of these for myself! I just don't know where to buy, or how to make the soles!

Purlescence Yarns

Well now that I'm getting settled into our new place, I'm really getting anxious to get out and explore the area! I looked in the local Yellow Pages and also Googled to find some Local Yarn Shops. Wow! There is so much more to do and see here and lots more knitting and yarn shops too! I found one shop that is really close to where we are living now. It's called Purlescence Yarns and I can't wait to pay them a visit! I'll be sure to take my trusty digital camera in with me so that I can share the visit with you! I joined their mailing list to learn more about them, and they seem to be more than just an average yarn shop. They even get together with their customers to knit and watch movies! Sounds like a really fun group of girls. Hopefully I can get around to checking them out soon!

I have also joined my local library. Couldn't go too long without doing that! So, today I took my daughter with me and checked out the book "A Good Yarn" by Debbie Macomber. I've heard really good reviews about it so I knew I had to read it! It will be the first Fiction knitting book that I've ever read, so I'm looking forward to relaxing with a good story about my favorite hobby/pastime! I'll let you know what I think of it once I've finished reading it!

I'm back!

We are finally moved and TRYING to get settled in our new place. What a mess it is!!! We're surrounded by boxes and I can't find anything!!! We had movers pack and move our stuff, so I don't know where anything is now... We've basically been camping out in our family room and slowly sorting through boxes! Just got our phoneline connected but we're having problems getting the DSL installed, so I'm using dial-up for the first time again in years! Ohmygosh! I never realized how SLOW it was! Anyways, hope to have highspeed again soon, or I may not be online as often! LOLHope you had a great Christmas and New Years!