Ribbons Undone

I'm a Sucker for a Granny Square

2012-02-27T09:34:00.005-05:00

The last time I made a granny square blanket, I declared, "Never again." Well, here I am again. Whipping up spring like grannies for a baby blanket. Ugh--just look at those yarn tails.

My motivation? Good ol' Catholic guilt, I guess! This project is part of my Lenten promise. Along with my knitting group, we are continuously donating more baby items to a local charity. I'll be posting more pix of my progress.

Ash Wednesday

2012-02-22T14:13:00.005-05:00

There I stood in church this afternoon with tears in my eyes. No, not because the priest was so moving, but the baby just a few feet over began to wail. In her car seat. With grandparents (I think). This little creature made it so far, then the cries began. Then escalated. The grandparents stirred a bit. Then after a short while, they fled the scene. They never received their ashes.

I stood alone in church today--remembering how my baby girl once wailed on an Ash Wednesday ten years ago. In her car seat. With just me. She made it so far, then her cries began. Then escalated. I left the church with my bundle and didn't receive ashes that day. I'm sure I cried along with her during the car ride home.

Although I had no one wailing with me today, I still drove home with tears. Just my own.

Happy Birthday

2012-02-20T20:38:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday, Glenn, Jr!

Newsboy Style Crochet Hat

2012-02-17T08:59:00.004-05:00

Hat is complete. Embellished with green vintage buttons. Let's just hope the hat arrives at its destination before the baby arrives!

Newsboy Hat for a New Boy

2012-02-16T08:48:00.004-05:00

My latest customer is due anyday now--a newborn baby boy. Awww. She ordered a navy newsboy styled hat for her little bundle.

I love making hats. I enjoy working in the round. I can whip them up quickly. And I get to embellish them with flowers or buttons. In this case, I will use some vintage buttons. However, the most challenging part I always face is sizing. So far I've been spot on, but sometimes it takes several tries and sought-after opinions from the experts (other moms and grandmas)!

I'll be joining my knitting group this morning; I think I'll run this little number by the ladies. Sit tight, Sandy!

Yarn De-Stash

2012-02-15T14:49:00.007-05:00

Unlike most yarn crafters, I like to keep my yarn stash at a bare minimum. Gasp! It's just not my nature to collect and over accumulate--I love the put-it-to-good-use feeling.

Sometimes my projects are the result of this. My latest girly version of my famous sporty striped baby blanket uses up some bits of skeins--white, hunter green, light pink, and heather gray.

I like the end product--not too girly, but kinda spring-like with a hint of preppy. What do you think of this color combo?

It's a Hat, No, It's a Bowl

2012-02-13T17:34:00.003-05:00

I was working on a crochet hat pattern, when I discovered that it looked and behaved more like a sturdy bowl than an actual hat.
So I tweaked the pattern here and there a bit, added some vintage ribbon, and...
...ta-dah! A sweet little robin's egg blue bowl--another spring inspired crocheted craft.

Cricut Mini Machine

2012-02-02T11:36:00.009-05:00

Perhaps it was the word "mini" that drew me in. Being mini myself I thought, "Hmmm, this could be the machine for me." I recently purchased the Cricut Mini. Although I am very talented at wielding a pair of scissors (and I never ever run with them), I wanted a machine that would just do it for me. At my command. Poof!

Well, I need to get more with the program--struggling with Cricut Craft Room online--certainly it's operator error. However, I did manage to make several pretty tags to enclose with my customers' purchases. I can't wait to use them.

Thinking Ahead

2012-01-30T12:12:00.006-05:00

I really admire all those Etsy shop owners that are able to think ahead--crafting springy items when there's snow on the ground or whipping up Christmas crafts while sporting sunblock on hot summer days. I always tell myself that I'm one or two steps behind--listing Valentine garland in late January. Someday I'll figure it out I guess. Sigh.

I haven't been feeling my best lately--but I was able to think ahead for a bit and whip up these cute, and very springy, little mushroom pots. Oh, I think they're just so adorable. I especially love the fact that they allow me to burn through all those leftover bits of yarn.

Anyone else feeling springy?

Jewel Tone Ripple Afghan

2012-01-20T15:05:00.002-05:00

It's growing, Stephanie!

Bedtime Prayers

2012-01-19T21:32:00.004-05:00

From the bedroom I could hear my son's little voice. I stopped brushing my teeth and listened. There he was propped upright in bed, hands together pointed in prayer, reciting his bedtime prayers from his missal, which was gingerly propped open on his lap.

I listened and was completely consumed in this private and touching moment. My eyes filled with tears. So beautiful.

A Blanket To Grow Into

2012-01-18T15:08:00.004-05:00

Above is the start of my Jewel Tone Ripple Crochet Baby Afghan currently found in my shop. My latest customer wants her baby girl to have a blanket that she can grow into. So I am custom-sizing this saturated hue blanket--I'm thinking 3 feet wide by 5 1/2 to 6 feet long. I think it will make a good sized blanket for a young girl--not too overwhelmingly huge.

Custom sizing is always happily welcomed in my shop!

Another Sporty Striped Baby Afghan Order ...

2012-01-10T09:54:00.002-05:00

... for another baby boy!

Popcorn Stitch Doll Blanket PDF Pattern

2012-01-07T21:13:00.005-05:00

I sure feel like a million bucks: A recent customer bought my PDF pattern for a Popcorn Stitch Doll Blanket, and she shared her work with me. Look at her project--it's beautiful! I am especially fond of her color choices. She received her PDF pattern at lightning speed and said, "looks beautiful" and "super simple" to follow. Phew!

Upon receipt of the pattern, she got right down to business. She states, "I started last night right after you sent it with some stash yarn. It looks great so far. I realized I didn't follow your pattern exactly after three popcorn rows because mine all lined up instead of being off set like yours, I just kept repeating rows 2-5 which works out too. I will try to get a picture [see above] to you this evening. Then the next one I will follow the pattern exactly, I just got so excited. :)"

That's just the best feedback ever! If you want to have a go, use coupon code SIMPLE25 to save 25% off this pattern.

Handmade Bunting / Garland for Little Girl

2012-01-06T12:07:00.008-05:00

I spent a lot of time this autumn babysitting the sweetest little girl around! My job as "baby whisperer" has come to an end, and I miss her.

It was such a pleasure to hold, snuggle, and smell a little baby once again in my arms. I like to think the two of us bonded and formed some kind of kindred spirit.

I made her a little something to hang in her room. To "little V" from "big V."

My First PDF Pattern Finally!

2012-01-05T20:05:00.003-05:00

Finally, my very own crochet pattern is available now in my shop as a PDF. It's not too complicated nor overly elaborate, but it's mine. And I am just a wee proud. I read it over and over and over. Oh, I do hope I proofread it enough!

Buyers, feel free to e-mail or convo me any questions. I will do my darnedest to walk you through. Thanks for your support!

Blanket for Angela

2011-12-29T13:34:00.004-05:00

Finished another blanket for another baby boy!

Yarn tails--yuk!

Comfort and Joy

2011-12-25T06:48:00.002-05:00

Like a kid on Christmas morning, I just couldn't go back to sleep. Woke at five a.m. Quietly crawled out of bed and went downstairs to turn on the coffee, light some candles, and peruse the gifts. It's still dark out, and everyone is still in bed.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas filled with you own special comfort and joy!

Nephews

2011-12-19T12:38:00.003-05:00

My Etsy customer eagerly awaits the birth of her new nephew. He's due the 28th--so I've been stitching almost every free second that I have, so I can get this out to her ASAP!

Yesterday was my own nephew's birthday. He turned 12 years old. I can recall staring, with amazement, at him while he slept in his little infant seat. At his birthday party yesterday, I parked myself on a couch and worked on this blanket.

It won't be long before my Etsy customer is staring at her little nephew with amazement.

Red Crochet Stripes

2011-12-17T11:11:00.003-05:00

I've made this baby blanket about six times now, so I was really glad that my latest Etsy customer requested a red stripe in place of the orange stripe. Changing it up a bit! I love this combo too.

Although I can no longer promise completion of projects by Christmas, I am still diligently stitching away for customers. I thank them for their patience and understanding.

Thrift Shop Thursday

2011-12-15T19:28:00.008-05:00

I know Christmas is right around the corner, but I just snatched these cute little items up from the thrift shop yesterday. I adore this little plastic deer with his bright red nose. He's still sporting his golden bell.

And this little bottle brush Christmas tree will be a nice little touch to someone's miniature Christmas village. Vintage items are still 20% in my shop with the use of VINTAGE20 coupon code.

Crochet Ruffle Scarves for Noel

2011-12-13T15:03:00.004-05:00

Two scarves for a customer--appropriately named Noel. Sending these out as Christmas gifts.

The first Noel. Hee hee.

And the second Noel.

I love how she chose the reverse colors for each of these scarves. First off, the seafoam blue is truly my favorite color. And the blue/green combo is my favorite to work up.

Crochet Ruffle Scarves

2011-12-12T13:01:00.003-05:00

Ready to be shipped! My customer's six ruffle crochet scarves. It's an honor to know that they will be Christmas presents for her loved ones. Thanks, Barbara! It's been my pleasure--a labor of love.

Crochet Ruffled Scarves - Custom Colors are Welcome

2011-12-09T16:30:00.002-05:00

Blue scarf with turquoise trim. Blue scarf with purple trim. Two down, Barbara!

Crochet Ruffled Scarves - Custom Colors are Welcome

2011-12-08T13:41:00.004-05:00

Stitching, stitching, stitching. This pale blue scarf with turquoise trim is just one of the pretty color combos for my latest Etsy customers. Six scarves total--I gotta go!

Another Sporty Striped Baby Afghan Order

2011-12-03T14:11:00.004-05:00

Cathie, your baby blanket is done. Don't worry about all those yarn tails hanging--I'm taking care of those right now!

Last week I recevied another order for this very same baby blanket. Three in a row! This blanket has become a hot seller in my Etsy shop lately. Thank goodness, it's one of those enjoyable projects to work on.

Vintage Items Coupon Code

2011-11-26T09:39:00.004-05:00

I have some lovely and very friendly-priced vintage items peppered throughout my Etsy shop. In an attempt to move some inventory, I would like to offer the following coupon code to be used for vintage items only please. Coupon code VINTAGE20 will get you 20% off any vintage item. The code is active now thru December 31, 2011. I'll be gradually adding more vintage goodies, so be sure to stop by.

Crochet Baby Afghan

2011-11-22T15:20:00.002-05:00

Here I go again, crocheting another sporty striped baby afghan for an Etsy customer. Make that two Etsy customers. Just yesterday I sold two of these blankets. Woo hoo! It's a good thing I'm not sick of this pattern. It's easy enough to take along with me when I'm out and about; I can work on it while holding a conversation or even watching something on TV. No-brainer crocheting. Gotta love it!

Craft Math - Christmas Granny Square Bunting

2011-11-20T11:43:00.005-05:00

This...

...plus this...

...equals this! A little bit of crochet JOY!

Chevron or Ripple?

2011-11-19T14:28:00.002-05:00

My latest project is another stripe-y baby blanket to add to my shop. A classic crochet style, but is it considered chevron or ripple? I kinda confuse the two and use the terms interchangeably.

This baby blanket is comprised of saturated jewel tone colors; I like to lend a modern feel to handmade baby items by staying away from baby pinks and baby blues. It measures 31 inches long and 28 inches wide--it's a perfect pram blanket for chilly afternoon walks.

Crafting with Old Puzzle Pieces

2011-11-11T13:30:00.003-05:00

The latest Land's End Kids catalog has a few crafty projects (kid friendly) spotted throughout the pages. In an attempt to get rid of some old puzzles, my kids and I decided to start making the puzzle piece Christmas wreath. Complete directions can be found on the Land's End website.

Yarn Wreath

2011-11-08T16:24:00.004-05:00

Today's quick project--a yarn wreath for my little nephew. Wish upon a star...

Michael's has tons of great holiday picks on sale. Forty percent off. Perfect for craft projects and gift wrapping.

Thrift Shop Thursday - On a Friday!

2011-11-04T11:01:00.003-04:00

It's been awhile since I've posted Thrift Shop Thursday. I know, today is Friday. I really wanted to feature this Marx house that I found years ago. It's clean and in move-in condition.

I just love peeking into those little rooms filled with retro-styled decor. Just listed in my Etsy shop at a very reasonable price.

Crochet Popcorn Stitch Doll Blanket

2011-10-31T12:53:00.004-04:00

The latest item in my Etsy shop: a crocheted popcorn stitch doll blanket for 18 inch dolls. Catherine's American Girl doll is in love with the plush and popping goodness.

Pattern soon to follow.

Baby Needs a New Pair of Shoes

2011-10-28T08:26:00.003-04:00

My son outgrew the coolest shoes ever. It's time to chuck the Chukkas! Thankfully, I had a back up pair in the next size up. It pays to think ahead.

A Tale of Two Amy's

2011-10-23T16:26:00.007-04:00

For Amy #2: Crocheting a navy newsboy retro styled cap. I had to take a little break from Amy #1's project. By the way, look beyond my lap. Do you see my new fuschia slippers (trimmed with pink velvet ribbon) from L.L. Bean? Oh, I LOVE them!

Okay, back to the hat. Cute, isn't it? I just adore the vintage green buttons.

And back to Amy #1: Her sporty striped blanket is working up rather quickly. Woo hoo! It's been a productive weekend. I hope yours was too.

Sporty Stripe Baby Blanket

2011-10-21T13:20:00.002-04:00

Here you go, Amy. Happily stitching along on your baby blanket!

Basket Weave Scarves for Men

2011-10-20T12:39:00.005-04:00

Shakespeare may have asked, "To be or not to be." But we yarn crafters ask, "To knit or to crochet?" That is the question.

Above is a picture of a red basket weave scarf I crocheted for my husband a couple of years ago. Nice. Well defined stitches. Dense and warm.

Above is a picture of another red (marled red) scarf I knitted last year. So much more time consuming. Little tiny stitches. Also dense and warm.

Here they are together, side by side. Crocheting and knitting can yield a similar product at times with some subtleties. Which do you prefer? Knit or crochet?

Crochet Popcorn Stitch Doll Blanket Pattern - Coming Soon

2011-10-13T11:03:00.009-04:00

I had so much fun crocheting a popcorn stitch doll blanket found here, that I wished to create my very own thick-striped version myself.

As I've been popping along, I thought, "Gee, wouldn't this make a cute little area rug?" You know, like something you would put in front of the sink in the bathroom, or just under your feet beside your bed. Oh how fun to step onto all those bumpy stitches. Hmmm. Got me thinking. Why not write down my own pattern?

Well, I've been working on just that. Writing it down. Getting it right. Proofreading. Over and over again. Typing it in Word, taking pix to accompany the pattern directions, etc. Can be time consuming, but a labor of love I guess. Others have done it, why can't I?

So once it's all set, I'll have my husband work his computer wizardry and turn it into a PDF. POOF! I hope to add the pattern to my shop soon for fellow crocheters. Just gotta figure out if I should sell it as a doll blanket pattern, a baby blanket/afghan pattern or small rug pattern. I'll keep you posted.

A Box of Candy for Alicia

2011-10-05T12:28:00.001-04:00

Ready to ship. A box of crocheted goodness in such tasty colors!

Crocheted Ruffle Scarves

2011-10-04T11:09:00.003-04:00

Another great color combo from my latest customer. The blues. Teal scarf trimmed in a light blue. This is a personal favorite color combo--love the scarf against the red blouse.

Crochet Ruffle Scarves

2011-09-28T17:33:00.004-04:00

A repeat customer is ordering some ruffled scarves for her grand-daughters. Young girl to tween sizes. This request for fuschia and orange is just so juicy!

Crochet Popcorn Stitch Doll Blanket

2011-09-26T10:43:00.007-04:00

Popcorn, anyone?

My husband made this sweet doll bed for my daughter's birthday. It fits an 18 inch doll perfectly. Catherine has been putting her American Girl doll in it each night.

I'm still working on this popcorn stitch blanket for the doll bed. My daughter loves it. It's such a fun stitch!

Winter White Crochet Christmas Hat

2011-09-24T09:54:00.005-04:00

This is my first Christmas-y Etsy order for 2011. Custom size hat for a three year old little girl.

I crocheted the body of the hat in 100% cotton winter white yarn. The trim and layered flower are created with sage green and cranberry red soft acrylic yarns. I really like the two colors combined for the marled look around the edge of the hat.

Currently I'm working on a popcorn stitch blanket for my daughter's American Girl doll. It took me a while to figure out what to make for her doll; we both fell in love with this fun pattern!

It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like ...

2011-09-23T13:58:00.002-04:00

... a Christmas hat!

Milestones

2011-09-22T14:22:00.003-04:00

My little girl turns 10 today. Why do I feel so sad?

Happy Birthday, Catherine!

Projects

2011-09-19T09:05:00.006-04:00

Another pumpkin hat for an Etsy customer. Almost done!

With the kids back in school, I've had some extra time around here. However, my extra time has not allowed me to crochet much. I've been deep cleaning: the attic, the hallway, hall closets, and the master bathroom. My plan is to go room to room. But I am so tired of looking at these piles of yarn projects scattered around the house. While the laundry is cranking this morning, I'll be finishing up that pumpkin hat. Then move on. I'll try to finish this blanket for charity.

Crank out a couple of hats for charity as well.

And this lovely Christmas gift knitting project will just have to sit on the back burner for a while.

Crochet Gift Tags

2011-09-14T10:37:00.002-04:00

A little bit of scrapbook paper, bits of leftover yarn, and ribbon can be easily whipped up into pretty little gift tags.

Thrift Shop Thursday

2011-09-08T14:28:00.007-04:00

Remember when Polly Pockets could truly fit into your pocket? I like these old-school toys much better than today's bigger version.

Can you buy peace of mind? I did this morning.

After shelling out a hundred and fifty bucks, I drove home happy and quite relieved from the dermatologist's office early this morning. John Lennon was on the radio singing to me about karma and shining on. And I truly believed his every word. Phew. I am "shining on" today. Until the next concern...

Forever Dolphins

2011-09-07T12:03:00.003-04:00

"I'm not a baby anymore, Mommy. I'm a dolphin," declares my friend's son. He's moved ahead at his pre-school and is now in the Dolphin Class with other potty-trained dolphins.

My own "dolphins" went off to school today. I drove them to the bus stop. Little drizzly out there. Other parents were waiting outside. Chatting. Me? I sat in the car with the dolphins in the back seat. Personal, emotional moments. Bus came. They swam away. I cried at the steering wheel.

Oh, I wish they all could be forever dolphins.

Destash - Granny Stripe Blanket

2011-09-02T13:57:00.004-04:00

What I'm working on today--granny stripe blanket. Destashing.

But GRRR! I keep making mistakes. Yes, mistakes with a simple granny stripe. A straight run. Nothing complicated here. I keep having to pull out rows. I feel quite challenged. I had an MRI the other day--I do have a brain! Grrr!

I can swirl. I can twirl. But walk a straight line? Hah--a bit of a challenge lately!

Thrift Shop Thursday

2011-09-01T08:20:00.006-04:00

A vintage parasol umbrella--oh such pretty flowers, birds, and butterflies painted on oiled rice paper. Truly a unique piece.

I love the intricate workmanship inside. The details. So fine.

I'm happy to say that it still opens and closes with ease. I thought it would be a lovely piece for a bride or festive party goer to hold. Or maybe hung up for some Asian inspired home decor? It may not be the right season, but I went ahead and listed this beauty in my Etsy shop last night. So curious to see if someone snatches it up and find out what they will do with it.

Crochet Autumn Flower Pin

2011-08-30T08:08:00.003-04:00

With the threat of Hurricane Irene over, I can breathe a deep sigh of relief and carry on like normal. Many neighboring towns and local stores are completely without power. My family and I feel very fortunate to be up and running, with just a few branches scattered here and there in our yards. Very fortunate.

Two types of yarn marled together and another vintage button helped create another ruffled flower brooch for my Etsy shop. I love the chunkiness it lends to fall blazers.

Hurricane Irene

2011-08-26T19:48:00.003-04:00

Time is ticking away... Hurricane Irene will be headed up our coast within the next 24 hours. With major power outages expected throughout New Jersey, I will not be posting or able to access my Etsy shop at this time.

Waiting for the calm...

Crochet Stripe Blanket for Baby

2011-08-25T09:45:00.003-04:00

Here in the east coast we are bracing ourselves for Hurricane Irene. I've been gathering batteries, flashlights, and will go out again for another food run. I want to be prepared, just in case...

If all goes smoothly, I plan on weaving in all these yarn tails this weekend. It may actually help keep me calm while the wind is howling and the rains are pouring. Stay safe!

Crochet Stripe Blanket for Baby

2011-08-21T15:01:00.003-04:00

Here you go, Erin. It's more than halfway done! At this point the baby blanket measures 21 inches long. It will measure approximately 36 inches long upon completion.

No need to fear about those yarn tails hanging. I'll take care of those!

Crochet Ripple Afghan Blanket for Baby

2011-08-19T14:14:00.004-04:00

I started this striped baby blanket last night for an Etsy customer. Custom colors. I love 'em!

I think I made some nice progress. I will continue to work on it this afternoon. I told my customer I would need about two weeks to complete this project. I think I've alotted myself ample time. Fellow crocheters, what kind of time frame do you quote your Etsy customers? Curious to know if anyone has a good system.

Thrift Shop Thursday

2011-08-18T19:48:00.005-04:00

Recently I had the pleasure of spotting these two vintage doll cases. "Ooh, what have we here?" I thought to myself. Quickly, I scooped them up with no hesitation. I loved the girliness, the vintage-ness, the colors, the design, and ...

the stars! So Sputnik!

Yesterday

2011-08-15T14:47:00.006-04:00

Yesterday, I needed a little break from crocheting. Sorry, Alicia. I dusted off my sewing machine, which doesn't always like me, and made my daughter a skirt.

Simple straight lines. Elastic waist. Boy, Catherine is hard to fit. Tall and skinny. Not a bad combination to be, right? I sized the elastic right around her tiny waist, and the skirt fits her perfectly. Yay!

To welcome a new baby in December, an Etsy customer has selected some really modern colors for her baby's nursery: orange, pear green, gray, and white. These skeins will be promptly whipped up into a stripey baby afghan. I love this project already. Gotta get stitching!

Colors of the Sea

2011-08-13T09:23:00.006-04:00

How's this, Alicia?

I crocheted this scarf several times. First an all seafoam green body. No, too green. Pulled out. Then seafoam green and light blue body. Nah, didn't care for it. Looked boy-ish. Pulled out again. Hmmmm.

I thought of Monet and waterlily paintings--all those beautiful shades of blues and greens. That's it! This variegated yarn did the trick. I think.

Ruffle Crochet Scarves

2011-08-12T08:22:00.002-04:00

Five, almost six, done! This one is the light blue with purple trim combo. I'm still working on the "sea colors" scarf, Alicia. It was almost complete yesterday, but I decided to pull out most of the seafoam green stitches and add in a little more blue. I'll be back to work on that one today.

Diehard Stitching

2011-08-10T08:16:00.004-04:00

My Etsy customers come up with the prettiest color combos. Soft purple and gray. Lovely.

This scarf accompanied me to see The Smurfs movie yesterday afternoon with the kids. Free movie Tuesday for Optimum Rewards members. Only paid five bucks for the three of us to get in! I've been a diehard stitcher for almost a week now--trying to fill an Etsy Christmas scarf order. Four done. Five more to go. Thank God it's August and not December.

My daughter will be turning ten next month. I thought it was high time she learned how to crochet. I tried teaching her two years ago, but to no avail. Too young. Not coordinated enough. And just downright frustrating--um, for both of us!

Although she may have some unintentional decreases in her little pink swatch, I think she's got it! Yesterday while waiting for the movie to begin, we sat together stitching away. Fingers crossed she'll be hooked next!

Ruffle Crochet Scarves

2011-08-09T08:17:00.004-04:00

Killing two birds with one stone: Back to School clothes shopping (via a catalog) and crocheting a purple ruffled scarf!

Three are complete, Alicia!

Pay It Forward

2011-08-08T08:18:00.022-04:00

Recently I had the utmost honor to be a Pay It Forward recipient. My good blogging friend Jennie is a very successful Etsy shop owner of two shops: sosorosey and sosovintage. She's a fellow crocheter and vintage collector; I enjoy and respect her wonderful talent and witty blog posts.

Now it's my turn to send off a box of treats to you! If you wish to enter this free Pay It Forward giveaway, simply leave a comment in today's post. One lucky winner will be picked "out of a hat." In return, you are committed to blog about what I have sent you, and you are obligated to Pay It Forward by sending things off yourself!

Here's what Jennie sent me:

A SoSoRosey blue upcycled cotton bowl.

A vintage apron with beautiful eyelit trimmings.

Vintage playing card and vintage ribbons.

Tea. I love how the box says, "Tea is like wine." Not sure if I totally agree with this statement!

Retro-inspired recipe cards.

Three SoSoRosey cards featuring SoSoVintage fabric.

And a pocketful of stars!

Scarves, Scarves, Scarves!

2011-08-07T16:00:00.003-04:00

I just love (and marvel) how some people plan ahead. My latest Etsy customer has created a list of various color combos to fill an order for my ruffled crochet scarves. She'll be handing them out at Christmas time to various friends and family.

As of this afternoon, two scarves are complete, Alicia. Four more to go!

Sharron's Little Pumpkin Complete

2011-08-05T09:09:00.002-04:00

Tah - dah!

Sharron's Little Pumpkin

2011-08-03T09:26:00.004-04:00

The pumpkin hat body is complete! You can still see my yarn ends hanging; I'll take care of those. I'm still studying its shape and size for my Etsy custom order.

Green coils will be added later to top it off!

Sharron's Little Pumpkin

2011-08-02T11:09:00.003-04:00

Here's the scene from my couch this morning: Yarn, glasses, tape measure, and even my son's hat. Trying to size a pumpkin hat for a baby boy with a BIG noggin. I've been measuring my own kids' heads and their hats--good barometer. Looks like the orange circle in the picture is too big. Never fear, Sharron, I've already pulled some out and have a smaller circle. Let's see where it takes me!

Autumn Wool Crochet Pins

2011-07-31T15:45:00.007-04:00

With Sharron in mind... Wool yarn. Vintage buttons. Crochet flower brooches. Fun and affordable embellishments for autumn. Soon to be listed in my Etsy shop.

Quick and Easy Double Crochet Stitching

2011-07-26T09:42:00.009-04:00

This is the only way I can get my kids to drink orange juice in the morning. I use the "fancy glasses."

I've got a good amount of leftover yarn from my afghan project that I crocheted for my husband.

I thought it would be nice to have a "his" and "hers" coordinating set of afghans. I'm crocheting squares in dc, which whips up so quickly. "Hers" is based on this.

Crochet Stripe Blanket for Baby Boy

2011-07-25T08:12:00.004-04:00

Here's "William" in all his stripe-y glory. I've been working on this little baby blanket here and there--it's for my knitting for charity group. I love the colors and am oh so gently reminded of tube socks. Yes, for some reason this little striped concoction reminds me of tube socks.

I've got those dastardly yarn ends to take care of today--with my laundry as well. Poor William, sitting there with my white load!

Thrift Shop Thursday

2011-07-21T10:32:00.003-04:00

Another Fisher Price toy added to my shop. Mini bus # 141. Somehow I had accumulated three of these. The first two sold. This white/red combo is the last to go. I don't have a hard time letting these items go; they weren't my personal toys. I've got all kinds of Fisher Price sets, located down in the man cave, that were mine from my early youth. Although I'm looking forward to clearing out, it's going to be tough!

Junior's Painting

2011-07-20T21:43:00.004-04:00

My son is pretty good at wielding a paint brush. The kids just love to paint and craft when it's too darn hot out.

Best Dressed Apples

2011-07-19T22:35:00.002-04:00

My apples are dressed and ready for school!

Crochet Apple Cozy with Ruffle Trim

2011-07-18T12:37:00.003-04:00

Happy Monday! Set an alarm. Got up early. Got dressed. Dragged kids to the orthodontist for an early appointment. We're dressed for the day, but my apple is not!

Here You Go, Nesi

2011-07-16T22:17:00.004-04:00

It's done. Why don't you come a little closer...

Cute, huh?

Top view. Can't wait for you to get it!

A Crocheted Pumpkin Hat for a Little Noggin

2011-07-16T13:52:00.004-04:00

Complete body of hat crocheted entirely with single crochet stitches in the round. Spiral. No turning. My favorite way to crochet!

Since this is a tiny hat to fit a newborn, the coils and curls have to be proportioned properly. To scale! Experimenting with shorter lengths and smaller stitches.

A Crocheted Pumpkin Hat for Nesi

2011-07-15T07:47:00.003-04:00

While I've been slapping on the sunblock, dodging the UV rays, and dipping into the pool, others have been thinking about autumn. Yup, I've had a few convos regarding hats and scarves. Good planning.

I must admit I did list a couple of things for Christmas in July, a few Back to School items, and my orange crocheted pumpkin hat. I sell a few of these each autumn. Pictured above is the start of a custom size for a newborn due to arrive in October. My customer wants her little baby girl to wear this for her very first pictures. Awwww. Once again, I am honored.

Thrift Shop Thursday

2011-07-14T07:55:00.005-04:00

I found a vintage counted cross stitch table runner last week. Such fine workmanship. I can't imagine the time, and the eye strain, needed to complete such a lovely piece.

Not sure if I should wash it and press it. I may just leave it alone. The edges show some slight wear. Anyone have any helpful cleaning and care tips for vintage linens like this?

A Painted Piggy Bank

2011-07-13T10:12:00.004-04:00

I promised the kids that they could paint yesterday, if they cleaned their rooms. Well, you can see the outcome--my daughter painted her little ceramic piggy bank just so sweet and dainty. Look at those pastel flowers all over it's little body--so faint but so feminine. I adore Catherine's work!

Crochet Ripple Afghan Complete

2011-07-12T08:23:00.007-04:00

Finally finished the ripple style afghan for a very important customer--my husband. I thought the stripes were masculine enough, and the colors would go anywhere in the house.

Draped over the red couch. Ooh.

Folded over the blue couch. Aah.

Just waiting for the cooler weather now.

Drat!

2011-07-11T16:47:00.001-04:00

At the end of my rope.

Bridal Shower Gift #1

2011-07-10T12:04:00.001-04:00

First comes love, then comes marriage...

A Peek for Alicia

2011-07-09T15:00:00.002-04:00

Even my daughter's Squinky the Squirrel wanted to take a peek. Awww-so cute.

Colors for Alicia

2011-07-08T12:03:00.003-04:00

Moondance and Yellow.

Orange and Blue Jeans.

Orange and Cream.

A Knitted Cowl and Blue Velvet Ribbon

2011-06-29T11:14:00.002-04:00

She wore blue velvet...

I would like to add this lovely shade of icy blue velvet ribbon to my oatmeal colored, woolen cowl. Not sure how to weave it through. I've been pondering this for several days now. Ribbon rut. Ribbons undone!

Crocheted Chain Necklace with Vintage Beads

2011-06-27T13:48:00.002-04:00

I've got a nice little collection of beads that my daughter and I have accumulated over the past several years. My favorite beads are the vintage ones of course. My latest, and quickest, crochet project features blue and white spherical beads, white textured beads, and clear glass beads. I'm keeping this one for myself!

Thrift Shop Thursday

2011-06-23T14:55:00.007-04:00

I take great pride in my "ladies skills" and consider myself an almost-Suzy Homemaker. However, I'm no cook. Sure, I've got a few tasty treats down-pat, but slaving away in the kitchen is just not my thing.

Today's thrifty find is a vintage recipe tin from Mayfair Company. I love everything about it--the colorful lithos, the kitschy appeal, and the ever-so-useful file cards. I'll be adding this little charmer to my Etsy shop shortly. I do hope someone can put it to good use!

Crochet Afghan

2011-06-21T08:32:00.006-04:00

My husband is a good sport. I knew I wouldn't be able to finish his Father's Day gift on time. I lost several weeks of stitching and blogging time due to a nasty bug.

I've been feeling back to normal lately and have been stitching away. Trying to finish projects that I've got hanging around the house! This afghan pattern is available through Lion Brand Yarn's website. It's called the Modern Alchemy Afghan. I love the colors and ripples; I didn't want to change a thing. You can find the pattern here.

Poolside

2011-06-20T10:00:00.001-04:00

A little something very light to wear. Poolside or at the beach. My latest addition to my Etsy shop. Free shipping.

School's Out

2011-06-16T14:07:00.003-04:00

I don't normally stick my son under the table. He chose to lay there and read--like some cool little man-cave.

Today was the last day of school. Half day. My son--came home smiling. My daughter--came home with tears. She will miss seeing her teacher and her friends every day. Sniff. I know.

To lift everyone's spirits, I told them that they can do whatever they want to do this afternoon. First I gave them a mini speech about how this is their only summer at this age and how they shouldn't waste time and be sure to cherish their days, and blah blah blah. My son--he's reading under that table. My daughter--she's playing school in the basement!

Strewn

2011-06-14T13:14:00.002-04:00

Strewn--it's a word I use a lot around here. Especially in regards to my daughter's things. "Catherine, your papers are strewn all over the house." "Your toys are strewn all over the floor." Or, "Why are so many things strewn on top of your dresser?" Treasures to her. Junk to me.

Catherine held my hand in church on Sunday. Not because she had to, she wanted to. She took hold of it and didn't let go. Giving me little grips and love taps with her fingers. I felt like a million bucks. For a while I forgot all about the stuff she leaves strewn throughout the house.

Feeling Better...I Think

2011-06-07T20:26:00.005-04:00

Never too hot to knit. Here's my view from the porch, while waiting for my kids to come home from school.

I adore this sweet yarn bowl that my husband gave me for Mother's Day. You can get one of these helpful items here.

Last One In...

2011-06-01T21:23:00.003-04:00

...is a rotten egg! That would be yours truly--I'm the rotten egg.
Taking a few days off from the blogging world as I'm a bit under the weather. Hope to be back soon.

Thrift Shop Thursday

2011-05-26T13:58:00.004-04:00

I snatched up this vintage crewel embroidered project from a local town-wide yard sale on Saturday. Fifty cents. Yes, you can buy happiness.

Isn't she so sweet? Before I got too attached, I listed her in my shop.

Unfinished Bunting for Baby Boy Project

2011-05-20T10:57:00.002-04:00

Let's git 'er done!

Crocheted Afghan for Baby Boy

2011-05-19T09:19:00.003-04:00

"William" is coming along nicely. I am enjoying my time spent with this color scheme.

What's In a Name?

2011-05-18T06:59:00.003-04:00

"William"--a slight ripple style, crocheted afghan fit for a little prince!

This baby boy blanket will feature sporty colors and will be donated to charity along with "Victoria."

What's In a Name?

2011-05-17T09:45:00.010-04:00

A gentle sage green, ruffled shell stitch surrounds my latest project.

This blanket was crocheted for a local charity. Upon completion I thought it was so sweet and pretty--it has a Victorian era feel. So I dubbed this project "Victoria."

No, it wasn't my intent at all to name it after Yours Truly! Keeping royals names in mind, I will begin crocheting a blanket for baby boy; my next blanket in the works will be called "William." What's in a name?

The "Victoria" baby afghan is offered in my Etsy shop--made to order. Please allow up to two weeks for completion.

Cotton Crochet Flower Spring Time Whimsy Pins

2011-05-16T08:37:00.003-04:00

A flower crocheted in a neutral, cream colored cotton yarn lends a classy, understated elegance to this dark straw fedora.