Isn't it funny how the mind works? When the creative juices start flowing, it's hard to focus on anything else but that next design that you are dieing to work up! As I was looking for a crochet book to reference an afghan pattern to here on the blog, I had to move a box of unfinished projects out of my way. Uggghh! The Guilt and the dread that I felt - well....It was sad :(
I bet it's been close to 1 1/2 years ago that I started a small Red, White and Blue afghan. Really, it's like a baby sized afghan and it's still sitting in my pile - I know, I have issues. I have always worked really small bubble style stitches and I thought it would be fun to try a larger popcorn type of a stitch. I had a good sized stash of Red Heart Super Saver Yarn and I kept telling myself that I needed to use the stash up before I go out and buy any more. In all seriousness, do you know any hookers who clean out their stash of yarn before buying more? I don't. And don't let anyone fool you - they probably have some yarn hidden in the closet or under the bed. This pattern was fun at first. I just made it all up as I went along my merry way. Nothing spectacular, just some good ole simple, mindless stitches. Then....Creativity struck!!! Now, I don't know what it was that made me put the afghan aside, but I had to get those fingers moving on .
Saturday, February 22, 2014
Friday, February 21, 2014
New Crochet Pattern Release - Ribbon Candy Afghan
Ribbon Candy Afghan |
This afghan is worked C2C (corner to corner) and directions are for a finished size of 40"x40" with instructions on how to easily adjust to the size of your choice. It is such a fun design and would make a great addition to any room. This actual afghan will be a gift to my youngest sister for her baby coming this year. I can't wait for her to see it!
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
New Pattern Release: Diagonal Weave Skirt
Since our Featured Crafter for the week is Jennifer from Crochet By Jennifer, why not have a little something extra to celebrate?
Introducing my latest design - the Diagonal Weave Skirt crochet pattern. This skirt was designed to coordinate from Jen's latest collection and it has an amazing texture to it! The diagonal weave is NOT a pattern for beginners. It is more an Intermediate/Experienced level and the results are fantastic! I love the look of this skirt in a single color and in multi colors.
What's that? You want to know what sizes it comes in? Well, you're in luck! The skirt includes directions for sizes 18" doll clear to Child 12. A wonderful addition to any pattern collection. Snag one of the amazing designs from Jennifer and you have a Perfect Mommy and Me set to make for your little girl, granddaughter or even for gifts.
Through February 22nd, you can get $2 off your purchase of the Diagonal Weave Skirt pattern on www.craftingfriendsdesigns.com
Click on any of the photos with a hat or bonnet below to be taken to that pattern in Crochet by Jennifer's Craftsy Shop.
Introducing my latest design - the Diagonal Weave Skirt crochet pattern. This skirt was designed to coordinate from Jen's latest collection and it has an amazing texture to it! The diagonal weave is NOT a pattern for beginners. It is more an Intermediate/Experienced level and the results are fantastic! I love the look of this skirt in a single color and in multi colors.
What's that? You want to know what sizes it comes in? Well, you're in luck! The skirt includes directions for sizes 18" doll clear to Child 12. A wonderful addition to any pattern collection. Snag one of the amazing designs from Jennifer and you have a Perfect Mommy and Me set to make for your little girl, granddaughter or even for gifts.
Through February 22nd, you can get $2 off your purchase of the Diagonal Weave Skirt pattern on www.craftingfriendsdesigns.com
Click on any of the photos with a hat or bonnet below to be taken to that pattern in Crochet by Jennifer's Craftsy Shop.
Pink and Purple Diagonal Weave Skirt |
American Girl Sized Diagonal Weave Skirt and Diagonal Weave Baby Bonnet |
Diagonal Weave Skirt Pattern |
Diagonal Weave Skirt and Beanie/Newsboy Hat |
Diagonal Weave Beanie or Newsboy pattern |
Sunday, February 16, 2014
Featured Crafter: Crochet By Jennifer
I am jumping up and down with excitement! As many of you know, I've been collaborating with Crochet by Jennifer.
Last summer, she called for testers on her page and I filled out her form. She is extremely talented and I love working with other designers. Jennifer usually does not have other designers test for her and I can completely understand that, but lucky for me, a few of the gals who know both of us talked her into letting me join. We hit it off and get along great because we have respect for one another and will not cross boundaries when it comes to items to design. We have come to find out that we are a lot alike and I appreciate the opportunity to design dresses and other clothing to match her wonderful creativity!
Now that you know how we met, it is my pleasure to introduce you to her.
What is your main business focus?
Last summer, she called for testers on her page and I filled out her form. She is extremely talented and I love working with other designers. Jennifer usually does not have other designers test for her and I can completely understand that, but lucky for me, a few of the gals who know both of us talked her into letting me join. We hit it off and get along great because we have respect for one another and will not cross boundaries when it comes to items to design. We have come to find out that we are a lot alike and I appreciate the opportunity to design dresses and other clothing to match her wonderful creativity!
Now that you know how we met, it is my pleasure to introduce you to her.
Lion & Lioness baby bonnet |
Designing crochet patterns. I no longer sell custom orders as I found it took too much time away from designing. I just want to continually grow and improve. Lately I've been going back and re-writing all my older patterns because I've learned so much in the past couple of years.
What is your greatest accomplishment or what are you most proud of?
Kylie Baby Cocoon |
I am most proud of the fact that I have turned something I love doing into a successful career and that I can stay home with my younger daughter. My job doesn't even feel like work to me because I love it so
much. The fact that I can earn a living doing what I do is just a bonus to me. I love the fact that my husband is proud of me too, and tells people all about my work.
What is something you struggle with?
Finding enough time in the day to do everything I want to do! My "list" of things to design is so long I'll never see the end of it. I also struggle with time management and making sure I work on all aspects of
my business equally. My Facebook page, blog, website, etc are things that I would like to build up even more in the future so I can always be interacting with people and sharing my patterns.
What advice would you give someone starting out?
Take the time to learn your craft thoroughly. I rushed into designing a little too quickly and I had no idea how it would snowball. I wish I'd gotten into it a little more slowly and tried more patterns before I
started selling my own designs. My own personal ethic is that I don't view other designer's patterns because I don't want to be influenced or feel that I am copying, but I wish I had seen more of what was out there
before I joined the designing crowd. There are several designers whose work I admire, but I have never tried their patterns.
Is there someone in the craft community that you admire and why?
Vita of Mon Petit Violon. I think her designs are gorgeous and she's a lovely person. :)
Thank you Jennifer for taking your time to share a little about who you are. I've heard of Mon Petit Violon and I've even seen her designs floating around on different social media sights. I had to go check out her FaceBook page and sadly, I wasn't a fan - Until now :) I have to agree, she has some amazing designs!
Well, there you have it in a nutshell. She is such an amazing designer and I'm thrilled that we are working together. If you are not a fan of her's yet, check out her other shops and become a fan on Facebook.
You can find all Designer Collaborations on my site, but here are a few.
Katrina Cloche |
Kate Baby Bonnet |
Karma Baby Bonnet |
Vintage Star Baby Bonnet |
Ashlee Beanie |
Primrose Baby Bonnet |
Saturday, February 15, 2014
A Quick project to thank our Service Men and Women
Beanies for Bravery |
I know I have. It just doesn't feel like enough to say thank you to those we see on the street or in the store who have or are serving our wonderful country. I have met an amazing woman who has set up a great way for us to help and it's so simple, I am kicking my self in the behind that I have not jumped in to help before now.
Beanies for Bravery is a project that Heidi from Snappy Tots has put together. She collects beanies (specific colors and sizes) along with thank you notes and sends them to the many men and women who are serving. If you Crochet or Knit and even if you don't, you can still help out. It is so simple and honestly a quick project and even 1 thing can make the world of difference. Click on the photo to be taken to Snappy Tots project information page
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Ribbon Candy Afghan pattern coming soon!
I am absolutely THRILLED and very humbled at the response I have received to my latest design. To wake up and see that so many of you have "Pinned" it, well, I was blown away!
Here is it's Official Debut to my collection and it will be released next week.
Update: this pattern is now available here: www.craftingfriendsdesigns.com
The Ribbon Candy Afghan
This is such a fun and warm design and I can't wait to give this afghan to my nephew who will be arriving this July. This is worked C2C using Red Heart Soft Yarn and it is easily becoming one of my "Go-To" yarns.
As you know, I have been designing a variety of items using this same stitch sequence. My Ribbon Candy 18" Doll Dress was the first to be released and has been a fun addition to my doll sized dress collection also.
Then came the Ribbon Candy Infant Dress sizes and look how cute it is on a baby!
In addition to the Ribbon Candy Afghan pattern, I also have 2 Scarf
designs and a Cowl that will all be released by the end of this month.
There is so much more in the works right now and I hope you enjoy them all as much as I do!
To view more Crafting Friends Designs AND to enter Daily for your chance to win a free pattern during the month of February, please visit my website www.craftingfriendsdesigns.com
Here is it's Official Debut to my collection and it will be released next week.
Update: this pattern is now available here: www.craftingfriendsdesigns.com
The Ribbon Candy Afghan
Ribbon Candy Afghan |
Ribbon Candy Afghan |
As you know, I have been designing a variety of items using this same stitch sequence. My Ribbon Candy 18" Doll Dress was the first to be released and has been a fun addition to my doll sized dress collection also.
Ribbon Candy 18" Doll Dress |
Ribbon Candy Infant Dress |
Ribbon Candy Infant Dress |
Ribbon Candy V Scarf |
Ribbon Candy Infinity Cowl |
Ribbon Candy Scarf |
To view more Crafting Friends Designs AND to enter Daily for your chance to win a free pattern during the month of February, please visit my website www.craftingfriendsdesigns.com
Monday, February 10, 2014
Featured Crafter: Live Laugh Love Crochet
Good morning my friends. Are you ready to meet another crafter?
This week, you will be able to get to know Nancy Creek from Live Laugh Love Crochet
Nancy has been testing my designs for a few months and I'm excited to get to know her better along with you!
What is your main business focus?
This week, you will be able to get to know Nancy Creek from Live Laugh Love Crochet
Nancy has been testing my designs for a few months and I'm excited to get to know her better along with you!
What is your main business focus?
Live Laugh Love on ravelry |
What is your greatest accomplishment or what are you most proud of?
My
greatest accomplishment thus far would have to be meeting all the other
wonderful crocheters that I have come to know and call my friends. They
have accepted me into their lives and I just love being apart of the
community.
What is something you struggle with?
TIME!
Time is always a struggle when you have children and families to care
for. I seriously need more hours in the day to create at least half of
the wonderful things I see. I have tested patterns for numerous designers
but I test for 3 different ladies on a regular basis and LOVE their
designs. I can not get enough of them hence the reason I struggle with
time lol.
Hmmm,
first thing first NEVER GIVE UP!!! Ever. If you are working on a
difficult pattern take a deep breath and walk away. Come back to it in a
couple hours or even the next day. If someone tries to discourage you
stand tall and prove them wrong. You can create anything if you set your
mind to it.
Mommy & Me Hat and Infinity Scarf Pattern |
Is there someone in the craft community that you admire and why?
Well
to be honest I admire all my fellow crafters. They all make wonderful
creations in their own way. If I had to choose 3 people they would be my
dearest friend Rylie of Mother Dear Crochet, Colleen of Tricity Hokes Creations, and Kate of Crafting Friends Designs. These 3 ladies have been very
understanding with me and have talked me through a lot of things. They
are always sweet and there when I need to talk or help on a pattern.
Thanks Nancy for sharing with us. Good luck in your new adventures and keep up the good work!
Now that you know Nancy a little better, here is a link to her blog
www.livelaughlovecrochet.weebly.com
Now that you know Nancy a little better, here is a link to her blog
www.livelaughlovecrochet.weebly.com
Monday, February 3, 2014
February 2014 CAL
UPDATE: Thank you to everyone who participated in the CAL! It was so fun to work with you and I hope you will join me again for future CAL's.
If you joined in and would like a copy of the PDF pattern, please email me a photo of your progress so far along with your Raverly ID if you have one and I will send you a copy through Raverly.
This pattern is also available on www.craftingfriendsdesigns.com
-----------------------------
Happy February everyone! Are we excited to get this thing rolling?
First, I want to say thank you for joining me. It's always fun to work along side other crocheters and to see everyone's progress along the way. I can't wait to see the colors everyone chooses.
What I'm going to do is keep this as a single post so that if you are off a day, it will be easy to jump back in without having to search for another post :)
Here are the materials required in case anyone joins in a after day 1.
AND, we are joined in the Hookin On Hump Day with Moogly fun last week. If you have a moment, hop on over to see what other wonderful blogs you can find!
Feb 12th update on my afghan:
If you joined in and would like a copy of the PDF pattern, please email me a photo of your progress so far along with your Raverly ID if you have one and I will send you a copy through Raverly.
This pattern is also available on www.craftingfriendsdesigns.com
-----------------------------
Happy February everyone! Are we excited to get this thing rolling?
First, I want to say thank you for joining me. It's always fun to work along side other crocheters and to see everyone's progress along the way. I can't wait to see the colors everyone chooses.
What I'm going to do is keep this as a single post so that if you are off a day, it will be easy to jump back in without having to search for another post :)
Here are the materials required in case anyone joins in a after day 1.
This will require 3 colors of yarn. It can be your brand preference as long as it's a #4 WW yarn.
I have used Red Heart Super Saver for mine. You could also use Caron Simply Soft, Red Heart Soft,
Vanna's Choice or something similar
1. Your first color needs to be dark. Color C
2. Your second color needs to be a lighter shade of your first color. Color B
3. Your third color needs to be a neutral. Color A
For example: Windsor Blue, Country Blue, Aran
Dark Sage, Light Sage, Aran
Claret, Dusty Rose, Cream
Yarn Qty: Small - 6oz each color
Med - 12oz each color
Large - 18oz each color Hook size: H (this is what I use, but again, you can use the hook size you are most comfortable with as the pattern will work for any size.
I have used Red Heart Super Saver for mine. You could also use Caron Simply Soft, Red Heart Soft,
Vanna's Choice or something similar
1. Your first color needs to be dark. Color C
2. Your second color needs to be a lighter shade of your first color. Color B
3. Your third color needs to be a neutral. Color A
For example: Windsor Blue, Country Blue, Aran
Dark Sage, Light Sage, Aran
Claret, Dusty Rose, Cream
Yarn Qty: Small - 6oz each color
Med - 12oz each color
Large - 18oz each color Hook size: H (this is what I use, but again, you can use the hook size you are most comfortable with as the pattern will work for any size.
Tip: So you don't have so many ends to weave in at the end, work over the beginning "tail" as you start each new section
The green one was perfect for my little nephew, the pink one I started for my mom and the blue one...well, I don't know yet but I'm sure it will go to a happy home.
Now, If you haven't already, Make sure you go to my website and enter daily for my Freebie February I am hosting to celebrate my birthday this month. Every day, I will draw another winner for their CFD individual pattern of choice. Click on this link to take you to the form www.craftingfriendsdesigns.com
I keep hearing of more and more friends joining in and it puts a smile on my face :)
What do you think so far? I love playing with color combinations for this design! (Can you tell?)The green one was perfect for my little nephew, the pink one I started for my mom and the blue one...well, I don't know yet but I'm sure it will go to a happy home.
Now, If you haven't already, Make sure you go to my website and enter daily for my Freebie February I am hosting to celebrate my birthday this month. Every day, I will draw another winner for their CFD individual pattern of choice. Click on this link to take you to the form www.craftingfriendsdesigns.com
AND, we are joined in the Hookin On Hump Day with Moogly fun last week. If you have a moment, hop on over to see what other wonderful blogs you can find!
Feb 12th update on my afghan:
Sunday, February 2, 2014
Featured Crafter: Loops of Love
As many of you know, I love to collaborate with other designers! This is how I first met Lisa from Loops of Love. I had designed my Emerald City Dress pattern and she happened to design a cute little Cora Couture Bonnet around the same time that matched perfectly.
Lisa is such a sweetheart and I'm happy to count her as one of my many friends I have been blessed to meet through crochet. So, I would love for you to get to know a little more about her also.
Elise Slouch |
What is your main business focus?
Although I do take custom orders, my main focus is designing. I really love
learning new stitches and seeing how I can turn it into a new design. I also
sell finished items at a local artisan shop, Griffin’s Studio. Loops of Love on EtsySerenity Hat |
What is your greatest
accomplishment or what are you most proud of?
I taught myself to crochet when
my grandson was born. I loved it so much and was making so many things that I decided to start my Loops of Love Facebook page to sell some of the items. That, in itself, was
a big accomplishment to me.
I never thought I would be designing my own
patterns. Stepping out and giving that a try and now having over 60 patterns in
my shops has been my greatest accomplishment.
What is something you struggle with?
My biggest struggle is definitely time management. I get so distracted so easily and have found that the best way to stay focused is to have a list with goals.
Crissy Headwrap |
What advice would you give someone starting out?
First of all, just have fun. Remember why you started crocheting in the first place. Second, don’t compare yourself or your sales to anyone else. Learn what works for you and stay focused on that.
Is there someone in the craft community that you admire and why?
When I first started my shop, I “met” Melanie from 3 Boys and a Ball of Yarn. She started out like I did by selling finished items on her Facebook page. She later started designing her own patterns. The fact that she finds time to work a “regular” job, raise 3 boys and be a crochet designer is such an inspiration. I love her work , and she’s a truly amazing person, as well.
Elise Cowl |
Thank you Lisa for taking your time to let us put a name and a face behind the business name.
Now that you know a little more about Lisa, you can check out her patterns on her other Social sites.
Freebie February Day 2
Since my birthday is in February, I've decided to have some fun and give you a chance to win a gift!
Each day, I will post a new question. All you have to do is answer that question correctly and you will be entered in a daily drawing. The winner will receive a free pattern of choice (collections not included) from my shop.
Comment below with the answer to the following question.
Who in the crochet community does Jonna look up to?
(comments are moderated, so they will not show up today)
Each day, I will post a new question. All you have to do is answer that question correctly and you will be entered in a daily drawing. The winner will receive a free pattern of choice (collections not included) from my shop.
Comment below with the answer to the following question.
Who in the crochet community does Jonna look up to?
(comments are moderated, so they will not show up today)
Friday, January 31, 2014
CAL Project Materials
Good morning my friends. I hope you have all had a good week and are off to the start of a fun weekend.
I will be starting my Crochet-A-Long on Monday. There will be quite a few of us working together and I can't wait to see your end results!
This project is gender neutral and can be made in various sizes. I will post 1 section of the pattern each day on my blog until we reach the "repeat" sections and then I will give you a few days (or more if needed) to work through those. At the end of the CAL, I ask that you post a photo of your project on my FaceBook page and msg me your email address or Ravelry ID and I will "gift" you the PDF pattern for your keeping.
So, Let's get started! Here is a list of the materials you will need.
This will require 3 colors of yarn. It can be your brand preference as long as it's a #4 WW yarn.
I have used Red Heart Super Saver for mine. You could also use Caron Simply Soft, Red Heart Soft,
Vanna's Choice or something similar
1. Your first color needs to be dark.
2. Your second color needs to be a lighter shade of your first color.
3. Your third color needs to be a neutral.
For example: Windsor Blue, Country Blue, Aran
Dark Sage, Light Sage, Aran
Claret, Dusty Rose, Cream
Yarn Qty: Small - 6oz each color
Med - 12oz each color
Large - 18oz each color
Hook size: H (this is what I use, but again, you can use the hook size you are most comfortable with as the pattern will work for any size.
This is a great way to go through some of that stash that you've been hiding under your bed. Or maybe in the closet? Mine is all over the place since I have a small house and not enough storage :) And if you don't have enough in your stash, well, now you have a reason to go shopping - right?
I'm so excited! Go gather your things and we'll meet back her on Monday at 11am MST. (the first section will only take you a couple of minutes)
I will be starting my Crochet-A-Long on Monday. There will be quite a few of us working together and I can't wait to see your end results!
This project is gender neutral and can be made in various sizes. I will post 1 section of the pattern each day on my blog until we reach the "repeat" sections and then I will give you a few days (or more if needed) to work through those. At the end of the CAL, I ask that you post a photo of your project on my FaceBook page and msg me your email address or Ravelry ID and I will "gift" you the PDF pattern for your keeping.
So, Let's get started! Here is a list of the materials you will need.
This will require 3 colors of yarn. It can be your brand preference as long as it's a #4 WW yarn.
I have used Red Heart Super Saver for mine. You could also use Caron Simply Soft, Red Heart Soft,
Vanna's Choice or something similar
1. Your first color needs to be dark.
2. Your second color needs to be a lighter shade of your first color.
3. Your third color needs to be a neutral.
For example: Windsor Blue, Country Blue, Aran
Dark Sage, Light Sage, Aran
Claret, Dusty Rose, Cream
Yarn Qty: Small - 6oz each color
Med - 12oz each color
Large - 18oz each color
Hook size: H (this is what I use, but again, you can use the hook size you are most comfortable with as the pattern will work for any size.
This is a great way to go through some of that stash that you've been hiding under your bed. Or maybe in the closet? Mine is all over the place since I have a small house and not enough storage :) And if you don't have enough in your stash, well, now you have a reason to go shopping - right?
I'm so excited! Go gather your things and we'll meet back her on Monday at 11am MST. (the first section will only take you a couple of minutes)
Monday, January 27, 2014
Featured Crafter: Hatch-ed With Love
Welcome to our Featured Crafter post (week 3)
This week you will meet the talented Miss Jennifer of Hatch-ed With Love. Jen is another crochet designer with some really fun patterns! Take a moment to get to know her a little better and visit her site.
What is the main focus of Hatch-ed With Love?
My main business focus is pattern writing!! I began as wanting to sell my handmade things but more people were interested in patterns. After I finally gave in and wrote up my first pattern, I was hooked!! I never thought I would be able write patterns that would sell, so I never tried. I love learning and there is still so much I want to learn!!
Hatch-ed With Love on Storenvy
What is your greatest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment would be starting my page and getting my name out there. My grandma always told me that I needed to sell my things. I had no idea on where to begin, after she passed away in 2011, I went searching for a way to get my name out there. Facebook pages were just starting to become popular, my cousins girlfriend told me to start one. I told her that if she could think of a catchy name then I would do it and that is where Hatch-ed With Love came from. And is my biggest accomplishment to this day!!
What is something you struggle with?
Something I struggle with.. everything!! I'm bad a time management, I'm bad at writing notes down, I'm bad at buying way too much yarn, I'm bad at saving money, I'm a sucker for buying patterns I may never use. There is a lot of struggling. But without struggling you would not be successful. I struggle sometimes to push forward, but I know if I don't continue to push I will go nowhere!!
What advice do you have for someone who is just starting in the craft business?
Well, There ya have it! Jennifer is one of my "online" friends who I get along with very well. If she lived close to me, I could see us sitting on the patio crocheting and chatting away :)
And...I have to agree with her - Tera is a wonderful person and hopefully I will be able to feature her in the near future!
The last photo to share with you is:
This week you will meet the talented Miss Jennifer of Hatch-ed With Love. Jen is another crochet designer with some really fun patterns! Take a moment to get to know her a little better and visit her site.
What is the main focus of Hatch-ed With Love?
My main business focus is pattern writing!! I began as wanting to sell my handmade things but more people were interested in patterns. After I finally gave in and wrote up my first pattern, I was hooked!! I never thought I would be able write patterns that would sell, so I never tried. I love learning and there is still so much I want to learn!!
What is your greatest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment would be starting my page and getting my name out there. My grandma always told me that I needed to sell my things. I had no idea on where to begin, after she passed away in 2011, I went searching for a way to get my name out there. Facebook pages were just starting to become popular, my cousins girlfriend told me to start one. I told her that if she could think of a catchy name then I would do it and that is where Hatch-ed With Love came from. And is my biggest accomplishment to this day!!
Something I struggle with.. everything!! I'm bad a time management, I'm bad at writing notes down, I'm bad at buying way too much yarn, I'm bad at saving money, I'm a sucker for buying patterns I may never use. There is a lot of struggling. But without struggling you would not be successful. I struggle sometimes to push forward, but I know if I don't continue to push I will go nowhere!!
Advice for someone
starting out... Practice and patience. It takes practice to be
successful, the more you practice the better your products will turn
out. Patience is a must. Without patience you will get nowhere. Even
when you feel like business is slow, if you are patient, people will
come when you are least expecting it!! Don't be afraid to put your name
out there like I was in the
beginning!!
Who is someone you admire in the craft business?
Someone I admire in the craft community would be Tera from Trifles N Treasures!! I just love the passion she has about crocheting. She gets
an idea and within minutes, she has a pattern. I love how easy her
patterns are to follow and I love how much she has branched out (pun
intended) with making the wooden crochet hooks. She is the friendliest
most caring person ever. She has the biggest heart and is not afraid to
help someone out!! She has encouraged me so much when I have been down
and felt like giving up!! I recommend everyone to go buy ALL her
patterns!!
Well, There ya have it! Jennifer is one of my "online" friends who I get along with very well. If she lived close to me, I could see us sitting on the patio crocheting and chatting away :)
And...I have to agree with her - Tera is a wonderful person and hopefully I will be able to feature her in the near future!
The last photo to share with you is:
The Love Your Kidneys Beanie (this one she is donating $1 from all sales to the National Kidney Foundation)
Saturday, January 25, 2014
The Wonderful World of Yarn
Do you ever have trouble deciding what yarn to choose for a project when
going to the store, standing in an isle full of many yarn variations and colors?
I must admit that I'm a creature of habit and I tend to stick with using the same brand/type of yarn for a good amount of time. When I first started crocheting (many, many moons ago) I only made afghans and because I was only 10 when I started, I used what was the least expensive which was Red Heart Super Saver yarn.
Free Petal Stitch Afghan pattern |
As I started designing baby clothing, I didn't want such a think yarn and fell in love with Caron Simply Soft yarn. It is so nice to use something that I don't have to worry about it itching the baby's skin. The ONLY thing that I don't like about Simply Soft is that the threads of the yarn can split often and make it slightly more difficult to work with at times. It does have some beautiful colors to choose from and I love making baby afghans with it too!
We can't forget about the fun Boutique Sashay yarn! I thought the scarves were really pretty that everyone was making with it - but I HAD to try something different with it!! I absolutely love how these dresses turned out and my girls are still wearing theirs often and still get compliments every time.
Princess Britt Infant pattern
Then Summertime came and I needed to use something that would not be to hot to wear and I tried out. I had tried Cotton at one point, but it seemed really stiff to me and hurt my shoulder to work with...Utill I tried Red Heart's Creme de la Creme. It is available locally and is easy to work with. It has such fun verigated colors to choose from and is reasonably priced.
Now, I'm on to a new yarn...Red Heart Soft. It is pretty comparable to Simply Soft, but it doesn't seem to split like Simply Soft does. The plus side to this is that it is available in my local store also and Simply Soft is not. I am a huge fan of the deeper colors such as Burgandy, Navy Blue and so on. The shades available in this yarn are great and I will be using it more!
So, How do you choose which yarn you want to use?
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