Chicken Soup and Vacation

It has been a couple of weeks since I have written a post to my blog.  I intended to write during my time on vacation, but as the saying goes you plan and God smiles.  There is always something.  The Friday before I was to leave for my stayaction, I had the sense that I had a temperature, so I went to the pharmacy to buy a thermometer.  I returned to my desk and discovered that I had a fever of 101.6 and ironically writing radio copy for the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hyigene telling people to go their primary care physician and not an ER.  I left work at 4pm to go to the doctor’s office and sat waiting from 4:20 until 7pm before a nurse finally called me into an exam room.  By this time, my temperature went up to 102 and the nurse commented that for a person who has a high fever, I look good, and I said I certainly do not feel well.  A swap was struck up my nose which I cannot stand and discovered it was the flu.  They did not know if it was swain flu, but treated as such.  The doctor gave my a prescription for tamiflu, gave me other instructions such as drink lots of fluids, and get homemade chicken soup (fortunately, there is a Whole Foods a couple of blocks away from the doctor’s office), and I finally left the doctor’s office at 8pm, but needed to fill the prescription (a CVS that has a 24-hour pharmacy is a couple of blocks) and go to Whole Foods to pick up some chicken soup and ingredients for soup for me to make the next day.  Fortunately, the fever broke the next morning and I spent time making some chicken soup, drinking lots of fluids, taking vitamins, and eating soup for almost two weeks.

I spent over half of my vacation being sick, so I did not do much crafting, knitting, crocheting, or sewing, but did end up making some very good chicken soup (it is good for the soul).  In addition to being sick, it rained almost everyday.  At least I did get better to attend my niece’s high school graduation.  I managed to go out a couple of days and picked up the current issues of Inside Crochet and Interweave Crochet, and both issues had some really nice projects to inspire.  I probably will just crochet the hat because it is really nice and stylish.  Well, that is all I have for the moment.  Enjoy your day.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Visual Journaling

I was listening to Allison Lee’s Craftcast a couple of weeks ago and she interviewed a woman named Lisa Sonora Beam who is the author of “The Creative Entrepreneur – A DIY Visual Guidebook for Making Business Ideas Real.”  She is a mixed media artist, writer and owner of Digital Hive EcoLogical Design which is a communications firm located in San Francisco working with green businesses.  Beam writes in the book about creating a visual journal as a vehicle of placing your original thinking and ideas to make them more realistic. 

I think the idea of creating a visual journal for yourself is a great idea and it does not have be for starting a business, but if want you travel and you have ideas, photos, etc to go into your journal for creating that vacation of a lifetime.  Beam suggests that your journal can include doodling, drawings, photos, writings, even a sales receipts anything that sparks an idea that you have and you want to get it down before that idea leaves your mind forever.

Visual journaling are for those creative individuals who are those visual, action-oriented learners.  Although, the creating a visual journal is great for left-brain thinkers who need to get more in touch with their creative process.  I am still reading through the book and find it very interesting and probably will create a visual journal for myself.  The journal for your eyes only and it is your creative and thought process, and you can use the journal go back to see what ideas will and will not work.

I am going on my two-week stayaction next week and will use the time get started and also the chore of cleaning my house.  I think will take this time to say enjoy your day.

My Wish List

Yesterday after work, I decided to browse through Borders Books to see what is new in reading material.  The Cook Yourself Thin hit the bookselves this week, it is the companion cookbook to the new Lifetime series of the same name.  However, I could not resist walking over the craft books section to what I could find in the way of crocheting, knitting, and sewing.  The section is very small and all of the books are crammed together on the selves.  A knitting book could be right next to a sewing book, and I wonder how are could it be to organize the section, but that is another story for another day.  I saw a few books that caught my intererst.  A couple of the books are a couple years old, but it was my first time ever seeing them.  The first book is called “Vintage Crochet” which was first published in November 2007.  This book has some very nice vintage look pattern, but one pattern that caught my eye is a crochet lace dress with flowers to give it a third dimensional look.  The pattern is only done in one size that fit people in the size 8 to 12 group.

 The second book that caught my attention is another crochet pattern called “Embellished Crochet,” and the tunic on the cover had me right away.  This is definitely not your grandmother’s crochet.  I have to see if this book is available at the library so that I can make a copy tunic pattern on the cover and a couple of other patterns in the book.

Here is a knitting pattern book with embroidered and embellished knits called “Beautiful Embroidered and Embellished Knits.  I have always wanted to learn how to use beads and other embellishments in knitted garments.  There are some really cute projects in this book and I have been in the mood for being a little more artsy in my crocheting and knitting.

Another book is specific to different kind of stitch in crochet called “Tunisian Crochet”.  Tunisian crochet is sometimes called the afghan stitch and is considered by many to be a cross between knitting and crochet.  The distinctive fabric created by this technique looks almost woven instead of either knitted or crocheted.   Tunisian crochet is typically worked on a long hook with a stopper on the end -  similar to a knitting needle that also has a stopper on the end so that the stitches held on the tool do not fall off.   Here are a several points about tunisian crochet from the website Crochet Cabana: 

 1) Never turn your piece. You work down the row on the right side, then back on the same side. (If you want to turn your piece then you might be interested in working with the cro-hook which is basically tunisian, but you turn your work, and uses two colors – and it doesn’t curl.)
2) Always begin the second half of a row by pulling yarn through one stitch only. After you’ve completed the first stitch, pull through two stitches at a time.
3) The last stitch remaining on the hook is always the first stitch of the next row.
4) Always skip the first bar when starting on a new row.
5) You will always be working with the same number of stitches as established on the chain (unless you are doing a decrease or increase)
6) Increases and decreases are worked only in the first half of the stitch row.
7) To decrease curling, purl your first row.

I have other things on my wish list as well.  A dedicated craft space with a visualization board with my desk, computer, sewing machine, serger (serger on the wish list), and fabric stash, knitting yarn and notions.  The color of the room would be blue, green and white with all my craft books and last but not least a stereo with music from everyone from Chopin to Three Doors Down to Indria Arie.

I guess these are my thoughts for the day.  Enjoy the day and what is on your wish list.

Hump Day

With the pending holiday weekend, I have to work ahead at my job and that means things are little more stressful than usual.  I am combatting that situation with continuing to eat as healthfully as possible and reducing any additional stress.  I have been a little lax with crochet project and have not completed handsewing the leaves to my scarf, but with the long holiday weekend, I think I can find some time to do it.  With my crochet project, I managed to get the second decrease with the first piece.  I have to make crochet four additional pieces and getting excited.  This is my first crochet cardigan and would be nice to have a spring/summer sweater.  I still have to start my niece’s graduation sweater and probably will finish it before starts the fall semester.  She is attending a college in state, so I will still see her.  I wanted to mentioned a website that I used to keep track of things from craft projects to recipes.  It is called Springpad It which I read about in a Real Simple blog entry a few months ago.  I have this knack for writing something down once, and remembering it for that point on and do it with telephone numbers.  I rarely look at a telephone number after the first, particularly if it is a number that I am going to dial frequently.

Before the leaving the house today, I picked up a book that I have not read in a while and thought it was a good time to read it again.  The book is “Wherever You Go, There You Are – Mindfulness Meditation in Everyday Life” by Jon Kabat-Zinn.  I find this reading that goes along with my hobbies of crocheting, knitting and sewing because these activities are about being still and in the moment.  You are paying attention in a world where multi-tasking seems to be an everyday norm.  Mindfulness is not about forgetting, but fully aware of the what is going on around you and there are times when I need to do that.  Sometimes, we can lose sight of everything that goes around us, but there is a time to reconnect and reengage before it passes us by.

On that note, I think it would a good moment to end this blog post for the day.  Enjoy your day and remember wherever you go, there you are.

Spring and Summer Projects

I wrote in my blog entry the other day about starting another sweater project, and will tell you that I had unraveled it at least four times before getting the texture stitches I wanted. After re-working, I finally like the stitches and now continue the process of doing the first section of the sweater. I have been laxed in the sewing and for some reason do not understand why I cannot get into gear to even cut out the fabric. I know once I get started, I will be able to get into a roll and may not want to stop. There are times when I do become obessive on working projects that day will turn into day before making the realization that I should perhaps stop and take a break. I will work on something for hours whether it’s knitting, reading, cooking or having a political discussion with someone.

As I am working on my current sweater, I am wondering what to make that will go with it. I have fabric to make some skirts and summer dresses, but need to get to them. It probably would a good idea to become a little more structured with creating a schedule to work on my projects. I know that it may should like a job, but knitting and sewing are things I enjoy doing and it is worth the effort to do some time management.

Another goal I have on my mind is getting healthy. It is time to make that routine visit to the doctor. I need to go to the doctor and talk to her about mediciation for my allegries and asthma. However, I want to get my blood sugar checked as well. I have a genetic predisposition to diabetes and want to see where I stand. With that note, I need to watch what I eat. I am bringing my lunch to work with my these days and keeping a shopping list of things I need from the supermarket. Most of all, is the need to get eight hours of sleep which I do not seem to achieve on many nights. For some reason, I wake up at 5:30am during the weekday, 7am on Saturdays, and 6:30am on Sundays. Every night, I tried going to bed around the same time 11p. I think if I change my eating habits and exercise, better sleep may come for me.

I saw the new Butterick summer patterns, but nothing really jump at me saying sew me. Although, I could make some changes and create something different than what the pattern calls for. I make changes to the crochet and knitting patterns like place different collars or sleeves. It is another thing to think about. Enjoy your day.

Early to Rise

It is the first day of my vacation and I woke up at 5:30 this morning. Now for the life of me, I do not understand why because it was my intention to sleep late. However, I lied down for a couple of hours before getting up for the day. I made some tea because I am still out of half and half for coffee.

I managed to finish knitting the scarf for the felted foliage scarf Saturday and now with the process of cutting out the felted leaves to sew unto the scarf. That will be one project down. I really like the projects from Sewing Green and plan on doing a few more in the book. In an effort for me to save some money, I am going to make a lunch tote, reusable sandwich wraps, and napkins. There are also patterns for a single and double BYOB water-bottle sling which I think is great to carry water or that bottle of wine to a restaurant that does not have a liquor license, or that romantic picnic.

I am turning green and taking the plunge by buying organic cotton fabric. I watched a new series on the Sundance Channel called Eco Trip with David de Rothschild (yes he is of the Rothschild family). The premise of the show is to see how the products that we are made and see whether or not they are doing damage to the environment. The host made a trip to see the production of cotton from harvest to the finish product. After seeing that, I am not purchashing another conventional t-shirt again. First the cotton crops are sprayed with herbicides and pesticides, then the cotton is picked and gone through the mill, it is collected in bails where it goes to be spun into threads and yarns. Before I continue, the seeds are collected and used for the production of cottonseed oil and foodstuff for cows (this would be a good reason to drink organic milk). Since cotton is not a food, it is not regulated by the FDA. The cotton is treated with more chemicals by spraying formamide in the final finishing, and formamide can not be washed out of your clothes. I had a discussion with a person about the episode, and she told me that I watched too much TV. However, if the told me that I read too much if I read it as an article. Oh well, it is catch 22 situation and people always like facts because it changes their world as they know it. If you have the Sundance Channel, I recommend the series. It airs Tuesday night at 9 est.

I think I am going call it an evening. Until next time, enjoy crafting and creating.

Friday and other Happenings

It is just one of those weeks where it is busy and things does not always go as they planned. The weather has not been the best with a big rainfall on Monday into the night, so I just came home from work and continue to knit my scraf until the skein end (don’t you wish skens of yarn could last until you finish your entire project). I have another skein to finish my scarf and tonight will unwind and roll the skein into a ball. Although, I realized that I probably will purchase another skein because three of them can make two 6″ w & 60″ l scarves. I am using Casade 220 superwash which knits into a nice soft fabric, and think it would be also good to make a knitted apron which I have had in my back of mind to knit for a couple of years.

I printed out an Amy Bulter pattern from her website today for a snow mum pillow, but probably will not do a pillow. I am thinking of using the mum pattern to add onto a totebag or perhaps make a smaller version of the mum to sew onto a skirt. I am thinking of doing some kind of whimsical scarf that will include yellow, green, and orange, but want to also try some felting. Unfortunately, I do not have the space, washer or dryer to try felting. However, felting was done prior to the invention of the washing machine and there is probably way to felt without one.

There are some other knitting techniques I want to learn and enter into my expanding knitting knowledge. I am beyond the beginner knitter with knitting a quite a few hats and scraves, and there is my first Lion Brand cardigan. I still have another cardigan on my needles and probably will start the crochet cardigan project with the Lion Brand cotton/bamboo yarn. Lion Brand also has a nice microspun yarn that I am thinking purchasing next week using its free pattern of a fitted knitted top. It is sleevless, but thinking about adding short sleeves (it is something to think about).

My niece is graduating for high school in June and will head off to college in the fall. I am going to attend her last high school dance school next week as I will be on vacation for a week. I remember taking her to Disney World when she was not quite five, and her first day at catholic school when she thought Father James was God (she was four) because she did not see him at church, and now she is 17 and graduating for high school. Time certainly does go by quickly.

Glorious Day

I wanted to begin by writing thank you for everyone who had some ideas about marketing my business.  It is always good to get input for other people  I am in the process doing my research and reading a book entitled “Craft, Inc.” and find it helpful in reading the stories of individuals have starting a craft business.  I learned that it the right time to start a business does not really occur and have to get over doubts and fears.  I have an idea about packaging, pricing, and copyright as is part of administrative aspect of business.  I want to be able to design my own knit cand crochet patterns, but intend to start of small with knitting accessories and knitwear for infant and children.  I thought about creating hankerchiefs.  It is just a matter of finding my niche with the balance of being creative and making items that people are willing to purchase.  I have to consider the recession and think about people are going to buy what they need and not necessarily what they want.  I want to create products are easy to care for and are durable.

Friday was a beautiful day and I got away with waying a denim jacket and cashmere sweater just in case it was a little windy.  I finally made a trip to the library apply for a new library card.  That is something I love about being in New York City is getting a library card while working in the city (well I do pay city taxes).  I think having a New York Public Library card means that you are really part of the city.  Now I can really do more research about starting a business and take out knitting books without going to bookstore to purchasing them.

Yesterday, I did some knitting and one of the best things about it is that it allows me to come in tune with my thoughts. Knitting does allow me to relaxed and with relaxing the process of mindfulness. I do not forget about my problems, but awareness and clarity helps me while knitting. Ideas also pop into my head while knitting such as creating a label, trademark packaging, and colors for the business. Now I have to take these ideas write them down and incorporate into my goals. However, the goal is to start small and work from there. I should be finished with the foliage felted scraf soon and post photos in a week or two. I am wondering about a foliage hat along with scraf. That’s another idea to mull over.

Is it Possible to Make Money from my Hobby?

Some people take a while with finding their passion and I am not an exception.  As you know one my of biggest hobbies is knitting and crochet along with being a beginner sewer.  I have often thought about having a side business because it is a way of keeping myself occupied and possibly making some extra money on the side.  I thinking more and more about taking my hobby combining with the idea of simplicity.  I want to make unique things for people to buy, yet functional, practical, and aesthetically pleasing.  I also want to make, but price my products that are affordable.  I am thinking along the lines handcrafted items with a Target perspective.  If am not willing to pay $150.0o for a baby sweater than I do not think the average consumer will want to do the same.

I have a business idea of creating custom items and some ready made.  It would be a great idea people who like to do something in advance such a baby blanket for baby shower gift, creating organic baby t-shirts and diapers kits, or just handmade gift for other special occasions such as graduations (such as knitting a sweater as a present for my niece), bridal showers, and weddings such as hankerchiefs, approns, tea towels, etc.  I guess it would be a custom gift-giving business. I am still hatching out the idea.  There are a few things I have to do to make this work.  One, is horning in on my craft because it is important to be good at what I do and take pride in it and this mean taking a some classes, second, do some research and create a business plan (I am a left-side and right-side thinker), and third is craving out time to make this happen (time management and organizational planning).  I already have a name for my side venture, Henna’s Place which I think it’s catchy.  What do you think?

A Good Foundation

I have something to write on my wish to sew list.  I listened to Laurie’s podcast from the Sewforthnow blog back in March 2008 interviewing Anne St. Claire about bra making.  However, such as life, the thought about making a bra went into an archive file deep within the recesses of my brain until about a week ago while reading Liana blog’s Sew Intriguing about her bra making experience.  Liana’s inspiration came from reading the Sigrid – Sewing Projects blog as the blogger has sewn what seems lot of bras and lingerie.  The blog also has a sewing tutorial for making bras, pattern and bra making supplies information.  I thought about the process of making a bra and the cost factor.  I learned that it does not take much fabric to make a bra, and from Ann’s estimate it is about $10 – $15 to make a bra and thought to myself that it is a huge difference because I have put more than $65.00 for a bra to give the girls good support and are unhappy when they are not provided with good lift.  I also need to get back into the practice of wear a slip again.  There is a reason for wearing a slip just in case that dress or skirt you are wearing happens to be sheer.  Making a bra and lingerie will be on my sew to do list, and printed an past article from Threads Magazine about constructing a bra

Believe or not, I am still working on my journal of all the projects I want to work on in the next year.  I still have not received my Jalie patterns, but they probably will come in the mail today.  I still have to get to the notion shop to purchase some thread, buttons, and elastic before starting any project.  I am also thinking about purchase some beads and lace to embellish a skirt.  It will be a plain straight skirt, but it will need a little extra to add interest.

What’s in your Dream Bubble?

Like every morning, I entered into the elevator to reach my office.  While I am waiting to get to the 7thfloor, I look at the little screen for news information, weather, and sports score.  The screen is called Captivate Network, and it is certainly is captivating to say the least.  Yesterday, I noticed the ad for the Mega Millions for Friday and there is a picture of a bubble with a caption inside reading “What’s in your dream bubble?”  Yes, it is had ad to entice you purchase lottery tickets in hopes that you will win millions of dollars to filfull that dream.  Now the chances of winning such a lottery is one in a million, but can you still have a dream bubble?  Do you need millions of dollars to make your dreams come true.  I do not deny winning $78 million dollars would make my financial life easier and would not complain if I did win, but I still have dreams.

On my way home from work, I do have a tendency to have several thoughts flooding into my brain to the point that I may not even hear you call my name while walking down the street.  I am in as some may say another state of mind and yesterday afternoon was not different.  Thoughts will really do come flooding in while I am doing something else like figuring out a Ken-Ken puzzle.  I often think about owning a business of something I enjoy doing and may incorporate traveling.  I think of ideas like having shops around the country serving customers withproviding their needs (I am being vague about the idea).  I do not think about being super rich, but creating a life that give me financial freedom to pursue my interests.  I also had another thought this morning about creating a space with a Moroccan theme because I love the blues, greens, and golds with the lambs, pottery and rugs.  It could be a bedroom, den, or sewing nook.  I have other things in my dream bubble such as the garden I want do, a trip to Argentina, Spain, Italy, Kenya, etc.  Writing is my dream bubble being a better writer as I do not have most perfect grammar in the world.

This is gives me an idea to write down all the things in my dream bubble and turn into realities.  On a side note, I received my fabric.com order today and it makes me a happy camper.  The sweater knit is soft and has a nice drape.  I also purchased the Crafty Chica’s Guide to Artful Sewing and has some nice ideas on low sew projects.  It’s always nice to make some embellishments to your current wardrobe or sew a plain skirt or dress.

A Sewing Book Review, Nice Finds and What’s Wrong with Repurposing

It’s a beatiful day and the only unfortunate part of it is that I suffer from allegries during this time of year.  I am allegry to just about everything such as grass and tree pollen, dust mites, roaches, ragweed, horses, dogs, cats, feathers, and a few others things I do not even remember anymore.  However, let us just say that from the months from March to November can sometimes give me some difficulty.  I also have a weird allery to rice, mustard, and green peas which means I can not eat these particular foods very often, and grains like quinoa, amanath, wheatberries, and barley have become my new staples.

Well that is my little side note before getting to real purpose of what I want to write about today.  A couple of blog entries ago, I mentioned that I purchased a book called “Sewing Green” by Betz White.  The book has 25 projects made with repurposed and organic materials along with tips and resources for earth-friendly stitching.  Betz gives very useful and old-fashioned advice on repurposing materials as way not only to save money, but be kinder to the environment.  If you or I thought about it, our parents and grandparents would constantly tell us about the importance philosophy of waste not want not.  We can refashion a skirt by adding embellishments to give it a second life.  I will tell you a little secret, I do not have a problem with going into a thrift shop and finding a good quality coat or jacket and creating something new from it.  Is that not the point of being crafty and creative?  We do not always have to create something new, but create something different as well.  In addition, I do have scraps of fabric and yarn that can be used for other projects.  There is one project in the book where you can make a auto sunshade from empty drink pouches such Capri Sun or Kool-Aid Juicers.  Actually, I think that is a very good idea if you have children who drink those juices, just save them and make the sunshade.  This way you have less trash and your carseat can remain cool, it’s a two-fold solution.  Betz also recycled pillow cases by making them into either skirts for women, or sundresses for little girls.  If you have an old denim skirt, you can create a shopping bag as people are beginning to bring their own shopping bags to supermarkets.  I do not know if anyone knows this, but Whole Foods Market will deduct 15 cents from your grocery bill if you bring your own bag.  I think Sewing Green is a good reference book to have for those who like or want to recycle and reuse.  I have a question, does anyone reuse, buy secondhand, and recycling clothes?  If so, how do you do it?

I have a couple of nice finds today.  Last week, during my weekly knitting club at work (there are some crafty people at my job and we meet on Thursdays afternoon to knit or crochet for an hour) one of my co-workers went to Rhinbeck, NY a few months back and purchased some yarn from Brooks Farm Yarn.  It’s called Four Play which is 50/50 blend of fine wool and silk (it is so soft), approximately 270 yd/4oz. worsted weight (7-9 US needles).  It is $18.00 a skein, but less than $100, you could knit a nice sweater, or just brought two skiens for a scraf or cowl.  Yesterday, I picked up a copy of Sew News to read the article about sew green ideas.  There were a couple of articles, one on sewing with bamboo, and what does green mean.  Sewing with bamboo gives the basic on how to sew with bamboo with choosing fabrics, benefits of using bamboo, and some resources of where to find bamboo fabrics.  One website I like is The Bamboo Fabric Store which had a selection of knit, knit with loop, and flat woven fabrics, and if you like working with hemp fabric, there is The Hemp Fabric Store with a selection of hemp fabrics.  Another website for bamboo fabrics is the Bamboo Textile Store which as a selection of fabrics as well. 

Here is some information about bamboo and hemp fabrics:

Bamboo fiber is softer than the softest cotton and has a natural sheen to the surface and feels similar to silk or cashmere.  It has a very high soil release value and is so durable that you can throw it in the washer and dryer.  Bamboo is breathable, comfortable and thermal, so it can keep you cool and dry.  It absorbs and evaporates perspiration faster than any other fabric.  Bamboo is anti-bacterial and order free which prevents cultivation of yeasts, molds, and fungus on your clothes.  That remains me, I am allegric to mold.  With people who have allegries like me, it’s hypoallergenic meaning it’s non-irritating to the skin (I have asthma and eczema), and something I did not know bamboo fabric protects you from UV rays (who knew).  In addition, it’s environmental safe as it does not require pesticides, insecticides, and fertilizers, and it’s biodegradable.  Bamboo fabric does cost more, but it is a very durable fabric so it lasts for a long time which is a long-term savings.

I am going to end on this note.  Considering that I do have some medical issues, it may behoove me to check out different types of plant based fabrics such as corn, soy, lyocell, and tencel.  I am not fabric or yarn snob, but I think it is a good thing to check out other fabric options and work with them.  I will do some more research on the plant-based fabrics and write them in future blog posts.  This also means that I should stop writing because my entry is getting a little long again, and if you are like me you have more blogs to read with subscribing to goole reader.  Enjoy the day!

Wednesday and It’s Still Cloudy

This is the third day and it’s still cloudy in my area, but at least it is not cold.  I made a realization yesterday as a knitter that I have been knitting from the back loop ever since I started knitting.  I think it’s because I am southpaw or left-handed person and just completely saw it differently, but I can say that my projects turned out fine.  However, I person in my knitting circle could have told me, lol.  She just left telling me she noticed a while ago, but I am not bitter.  Some of you may know that I crochet as well, and read from one of the message boards I subscribe wrote a post about prejudice against crocheting.  I have everyone know that I am an equal opportunity needle crafts person I like knitting and crocheting and it really depends on the project I like to do.  This hating must stop!  I am being facetious. 

I made a trip to Barnes and Noble Tuesday evening after work and discovered a new craft book  entitled “The Perfect Apron”.  I know that there are a few books published devoted to making aprons with “A is for Apron” the most current prior to the aforementioned.  However, I did not like those books because they just not capture my attention, but “The Perfect Apron” somehow did it for me.  It may toes curled and wiggled my nose.  Well that is not entirely true, but the book pique my interest to purchase it.  I love the apron featured in the book and probably will be inclined to make a few of them including the Japanese inspired apron shown below.  A silk apron?  Why not.

    

 

   

I was also glad to know that the spring issue of Burda Verena Knitting magazine is out, and found some interested projects to knit.  I probably will end up choosing one of the projects to knit, and Verena website has the yarn recommended to knit these projects for people to purchase at the site.

   

I purchased this book a few months ago (I think it’s time to see the public library) because it was interesting to crochet with different fibers such as jute, hemp, and leather.  It’s really a great book by Julie Armstrong Holetz of http://skamama.blogspot.com/.  I find the designs really hip and modern.  I am a little upset that I could not find the handle she used for one of her bags, the company no longer has it in stock ugh!

     

I purchased another crochet book a few months ago as well entitled “Blueprint Crochet” which also have some very cool projects with plenty schematics to follow.  There is one project I do have mind my for me niece because it fits her personality and style.  It’s called the Rachel Swing Jacket which is a `60s inspired swing jacket.  The jacket is worked in the round from the top down.  This jacket will be in my project queue to crochet.

     

Wednesday may be cloudy, but that shouldn’t stop anyone from finding some ray of sunshine with the promise of creating fresh and bright to create a little happiness every now and again.

A Case for Keeping it Simple

I read Elaray’s (anothercreation.blogspot.com) blog the other day with the new Burda patterns from its March 2009 issue.  Although, these patterns are for evening wear, I love the simplicity of the pieces.  Simplicity gives you a blank canvas to create anything you want.  The patterns can be for evening wear, formal daywear, or an opportunity to create something very unique.  You can find textured fabric, or just find plain fabric and some beading to create a border at the bottom of the dress.  You can make the dress a little shorter or make it gown length.  If you are a knitter, then you can knit a cardigan sweater to wear with the dress.  There is so much you can do to make these pieces your own.  I thinking about making an obi belt for the dress to add interest if I am going to use a solid color fabric.  Purple is coming to mind.

    

               

I found more patterns that are simple, but can open one’s imagination to create something and unique to add to your wardrobe.   Simplicity has a new pattern under it’s Threads Collection, but I am unable to copy or save as a picture to post it.  The pattern number is Simplicity 2703 in case anyone is interested in looking at on their website. 

 

I like these patterns because you can create a great looking wardrobe and not break yourself financially doing it.  I am thinking about having a pair of denim trousers and some dresses for spring and summer.  I purchased blue cotton fabric for the S2703 pattern the other day to make a dress like the one Michelle Obama wore on the View last summer.  I did not find any black and white fabric that I liked and decided that a solid color dress will work with contrast ribbon.  I like having a long summer dress like the Butterick B5307 pattern, and would like to have an opporunity to work with fabric paint to create my own print.  What ideas do you come up with when sewing clothes?

Fabric Store and Other Things

 A couple of weeks ago, I arrived home from look and found the Spring/Summer issue of Burda Plus in my mailbox.  There are a few things I would like to make from the issue.  Yesterday, I went to Paron Fabrics in New York City and purchased some lightweight beige demin which I think will be nice for this skirt. 

I brought a lightweight wool fabric to make these wide-leg pants to wear in at least two seasons.  I like have some pieces of wardrobe that you can wear all season.  I probably will purchase twill fabric to make another pair, but have decided on a color.  These pants would like great in a nice dark denim.  There are quite a few possibilities for this pattern.

Yesterday, I made another trip to a fabric store which is a five minute walk from my job and purchased fabric to make the asymmetrical fold skirt from Interweave Stitch Magazine.  I decided to use one of Amy Bulter’s print for the contrasting fabric, and a moss green for the main color.  I also purchased more fabric to make another skirt in a lighter green, one could enough asymmetrical skirts and for under $25.00 each.

I’ve been debating on making these pants from Burda Plus Spring/Summer 09 issue.  They look comfortable and fairly easy to make, but wondering  if I should go with a smaller print.  Perhaps a black and white print  like in the Michelle Obama dress she wore on the view with a solid black strip at the bottom of the pants, and there is also the dress which Simplicity 2703 which for some reason I am unable to copy the photo.  I do want to make a print dress, but thought about doing a solid color with a contrasting ribbon.  I like the moss green fabric so much that I was thinking about making the Simplicity dress with perhaps orange ribbon which my cousin posted a comment on facebook to say yuck (she wore a green suit to an interview to symbolize success), or robin egg blue ribbon.  I am still mulling over that one in my mind. 

On another note, my niece has been accepted to Seton Hall University a couple of weeks ago.  The school is located in New Jersey, where we live, but she will stay on campus.  She wanted to attend Spelman College, but her parents did not want her to go so far.  She has chosen to major in biology and wants to become a pediatrician.  She is looking at going to John Hopkins for medical school after college, she has goals, and I am proud of her.

In Every Direction

I was working on my mits this weekend, and ran into a problem.  I thought I was following the directions, but confused about the thumb gusset which means a visit to the yarn store and ask for some help.  Which means stop working on that project for the time being, and practice on some new stitches.

In the new Debbie Bliss Magazine, there is a patter for a lace scarf.  I have not done a lace pattern yet, and that project is a good introduction to knit lace.  However, I did have to get use to the English version vs. the American version of the knit glossary.  It did throw me off a bit, but managed to figure it out.

There are times when I suffer from ADD of knitting or any other project where I run into a snag, but it’s better for me to do something easier and go back to my more challenging work.  I started the process of compling a list of things to knit or crochet:

There are few projects other than the scarf from Debbie Bliss I want to knit.  I want to knit the knitting bag and knitting needle holder.  This might sound a little silly, but I would like knit a tea cozy.  I saw a couple of cute cozy from Knit Simple and Debbie Bliss.  I am not the kind of person who wanted to knit anything like a tea cozy or mug covers.

I mentioned the new Rowan Cocoon yarn, but here is a photograph of the sweater knitted exclusively for the NY Point Cafe.  The person at thet store told me that you do not need cable needles to create the pattern, but I think it’s a beautiful sweater and it goes on my what to knit list.  You can make a sleeveless version of the sweater as well.  Unfortunately, the yarn shop does not have online shopping, but as I said before for those who live in the NYC area could stop by and see if this something you would like to knit.

Being in the Moment With a Craft?

During my routine commute to work, I had the chance to read an editorial from Craft Magazine’s Spring issue. The editor discussed how working on a project whether it’s building a tree house, crocheting or knitting a scarf, or sewing a skirt can put one in the place of being in the moment.  I found that when I am working on a project or even reading allows me of not necessarily being lost or entrenched in what I am doing, but giving me an opportunity to concentrate on that one thing.  Working on a project does allows me to keep my mind quiet.  Who needs transcendental meditation when you can be in the moment with your fabric, yarn, or decoupage?

I never believed that hobbies are silly, but serves a larger purpose to the individual engaged in the activity. I get great satisfaction in finishing a knitted ribbed scarf.  The pattern is basically simple and doesn’t take rocket science, but it gives me a chance to quiet my mind.  There are lot things rattling around in my brain, and I need an activity to give me perspective that life isn’t so bad if I can create something that gives me joy in doing, and joy to the person receiving that gift I made.  I do not get my wrong as I do spend time unraveling or using that seam ripper whenever I make a mistake, but it’s also a learning process for as well. I learn more about myself that my grandmother was right that I do have the patience of Job because it does take patience when working on a project.

I think working a craft brings out a person’s artistic and creative side that he or she did not believe existed. Initially, I did not believe that I could ever knit or sew anything.  I didn’t start crocheting and knitting up until three years ago, and decided to learn how to sew a year ago.  However, once I decided to learn and found out that it is alright to make some mistakes is when I gained the confidence that finally said to myself that I can do this.  Once the idea being the perfectionist began to disappear is when you can find that you do it.

Counting Down The Days

I am counting down the days until my two-week vacation.  Yes I did have a vacation a few weeks ago, but it was only a week.  However, there is nothing like taking off couple weeks and a only a week does not do anything for me.  I do not have any money to go away anyway, but a stayacation is just as good.  Of course, I have do a major purging of my old magazines.  I have at least six subscriptions and it’s time to let them after reading.  Of course, some dusting and housekeeping chores, but now I have the time to get some knitting and sewing done.  During the summer months, I tend to read novels and it’s time for me begin reading Octavia Bulter’s books.  I typically do not read science fiction, but she was really good writer and it’s important to write a good story no matter the genre.

During my stayacation, I want to go into New York City and visit the museum.  I have not been in a couple of years and it’s a great time to see some exhibits.  While in the city, I will visit the garment district to pick up some fabrics, buttons, and ribbons for a couple of totebag projects.  I also want to start my cardigan sweater project using the pattern from Lionbrand and means purchasing some yarn as well.  No wonder I do not have the money to go away, I spend it on projects

What a Hot Day

It has been brutally hot for the past several days.  Today is the mildest of them all, and it was a good thing because I needed to walk to Lens Crafters to replace the pair of glasses that were mangled by the Path train a couple of weeks ago.  The realization of making that yearly visit to the eye doctor is that he or she reminds you that you are getting older.  Yes the doctor mentioned that I am probably going to need reading glasses in addition to my distant pair.  Then there is the dangerous UV rays that can damage your eyes as well, so purchasing a hat and a pair of prescription sunglasses, but the sunglasses will have to wait a while. Fortunately, Lens Crafters had a sale on free or discounted lenses purchasing frames for $169.95 or higher and decided to two pair of glasses, distance and reading.  I do not if anyone can understand how expensive buying glasses can be, but it does not help when the frames are more than $350.00 which I refuse to pay as I do not need Dolce and Gabbana frames, and the lenses can run more than $350.00 depending on the prescription.

I picked the new fall issue of Knit Simple with some very nice projects.  There are a couple of tea cozy patterns that would make nice gifts.  There are also some nice sweater patterns for women at any size. There is scarf pattern that is quick and easy to make, it’s very stylish with three buttons to fit around your neck on those chilly fall days.  Another project are a few knitted bags to knit with purse handles.  I did a search and came across a website called www.joggles.com that carry a variety of products from fabric, mixed media, purse handles and other things.  It’s ironic with the hot weather that I am thinking about fall and making things to stay warm.  However, I think I am getting back into the groove of creating and making things.

Book Cover and other happenings

It has been a little while since I wrote a post for my blog.  I finally went on vacation and had a chance to catch on a few things and read some blogs, but I have not commented.  However, I am still reading Adrienne’s, Erica’s, Trini,’s and at least another 50 between knitting, sewing, and politics.  The radio station finally moved everyone into the new location, we are now a part of Soho neighborhood in New York City.  I have to say that the neighborhood is a little pricey to say the least.  I walked into a shoe store that was having a buy one pair get another pair free sale, and the pair of shoes I picked up were priced at $585.00 (ouch).  Well, one could look at from this perspective of getting two pairs of shoes for that price, but I couldn’t justify it unless I did not pay rent and that is not happening.

There are couple of knitting shops in the new neighborhood called Purl Soho and Point Knitting Cafe.  Purl Soho has a fabric store a few buildings up from the knitting store.  I purchased some fabrics after deciding to make a book cover and a knitting needles holder (my needles are all over the place).  I brought less than a  yard of three different fabrics.  A couple of weeks prior to that, I purchase a skein of yarn Misti Chunky Baby Alpaca to make a scarf.  It turned a very nice and the instructions are posted on the website www.mistialpaca.com if want to make a scarf in a few hours and only want to use one skein of yarn.

I managed to do the book cover project and complete my scarf during my week off from work.  I had not use my sewing machine in a while, it was a little dusty.  My book cover came out nicely and I am satisfied with the results.  The bow on the front was an accident.  I originally cut the ribbon out for a bookmark, but cut too short and turned into a bow to pin in the front.  However, it was good to get a couple of projects completed, and I just need to pick up some fusible fleece to do my knitting needles holder along with buying some ribbon.  I also want to make a knitting bag and probably will return to Purl Soho for some more fabric.  I am seeing another project from the leftover fabric such as an eyeglass case for around the house.  

My sister-in-law wants to me to teach her how to knit because she is a bored as she is in the hospital for blood clots and will need to come home to recoup, so she is going to need something to do.  I will teach on my next vacation in a few weeks.  It’s has been quite a week starting with my glasses falling off my face and the wind carrying them onto the subway train track with the train rolling over them.  Well, I was over due for a visit the eye doctor anyway.  I have second a pair of glasses and continue reading the book in which I made the cover.  It’s a biography about Ida B. Wells-Barnett, the anti-lynching crusader.  I have not finished reading yet as it is about 800 pages, but it’s a great read for the summer during my commute and learn about a historical figure to boot.

I have been interested in crafting and sewing some tote bags and pondering the project from the spring issue of Craft Stylish, the vinyl bag, and a new project from Clover “Trace n Create Bag Templates” with Nancy Zieman.  Two templates that creates 12 different types of bags.  I am going to get the city bag template and sew a bag from that.  I want to make bags that are easy and stylish at the same time, and for $20.00 you have the option of making six different bags. 

Well that’s all I have for know, and if you are interested in the products and shops I mentioned here are the websites:

www.clover-usa.com

www.purlsoho.com

www.thepointnyc.com (Unfortunately, it does not sale yarns online but they have a blog)

www.butterick.com

www.mistialpaca.com

Have a good one!