LazyTcrochet

It's Officially the "Last Minute"

2011-12-16T09:08:00.005-05:00

It's the last blast. The Last Minute Market is tomorrow! I've been working on lots of new things because this is always the biggest and best show of the year. I spent a few days felting some mittens and fingerless gloves, and finished off some hats and button scarves too. I still have a few last minute orders to take care of and then I'll finally have time to wrap presents!
Enjoy the last minute rush, everyone! I know I will.

From the Last Minute Market Blog:
"Cleveland Handmade Markets and The Screw Factory Artists, together with the gracious cooperation of the Lake Erie Building owners and staff, will once again enable, and even encourage, holiday shopping procrastination with the 4th annual Last Minute Market & Screw Factory Open Studio.

The Last Minute Market is a wonderfully unique, one-day shopping destination with more than 65 artists and craftspeople from Cleveland and our talented friends from across the rust belt region. In addition, artists whose studios are in the building will open their doors to offer a peek at their workspace and an opportunity to purchase their work. Don’t miss this Market! Nearly every form of art and craft will be represented.
The Umami Moto food truck will also be on hand to keep you fueled for shopping."

December 17, 2011
10a-6p
Lake Erie Building at Templar Industrial Park
13000 Athens Ave.
Lakewood, Ohio 44107

Crochet Hat Pattern - Organic Cotton

2011-11-30T07:32:00.006-05:00

Simple Crochet Hat from me, LazyT. Happy Holidays!
1 skein Nature's Choice Organic Cotton from Lion Brand Yarn (walnut color shown)
J (6 mm) hook

Ch 3, work 7 hdc in first st. Join. (8 hdc)
Ch 2, hdc in same. 2 hdc in each. Join. (16 hdc)
Ch 2, hdc in same, hdc in next. *2 hdc in next, 1 hdc in next* Repeat from * to * around. Join. (24 hdc)
Ch 2, hdc in same, hdc in next 2 sts. *2 hdc in next, hdc in next 2 sts.* Repeat from * to * around. Join. (32 hdc)
Ch 2, hdc in same, hdc in next 3 sts. *2 hdc in next, hdc in next 3 sts.* Repeat from * to * around.
Join. (40 hdc)
Ch 2, hdc in same, hdc in next 4 sts. *2 hdc in next, hdc in next 4 sts.* Repeat from * to * around. Join. (48 hdc)
Ch 2, hdc in next and each st. around. Join. (48 hdc)
Repeat until out of yarn, or until hat is desired length. Fasten off.

*Optional - Fold up brim and sew on a button.©2011 LazyTcrochet

Handmade Holiday

2011-11-28T07:32:00.005-05:00

The Buy Handmade campaign continues! I've ordered several gifts on Etsy and even talked my son into ordering something instead of heading to the big store with little selection.
I particularly liked this sign because of the knitting needles, of course!

And here's a link to my favorite Christmas Cookie Recipe to get you started on some holiday baking! http://lazytcrochet.blogspot.com/2011/05/little-birdie-told-me.html

Let It Snow!

2011-11-08T05:05:00.004-05:00

Beaded Snowflake Ornament from Simple Elements Design

I am ready for it. Not too many people actually like snow, but I do! I'll admit that the early snow is prettier and somehow more magical than the late snow that turns brown and icy and refuses to go away in the Spring. There's just something peaceful and beautiful about the first snow of the year. And, if there's a lot of snow, I can ski out the back door and into the woods, where it's like a whole new world - quiet and calm.

I suppose it could and should wait until after Thanksgiving though. I have a lot to be thankful for this year! I'm so grateful to have a close and happy family. My kids are amazing and I'm really happy that I've had the time to spend with them while still working from home. It's made a big difference in their lives as well as mine.
So, I'm hoping for lots of snow and some family time to ski together this year!
Happy Thanksgiving! Let it Snow!

Crochet Pattern Granny Square Circle Shrug

2011-10-18T13:40:00.000-04:00

The pattern is now available for this shrug. It's crocheted out of Cascade Eco Wool and is a snuggly one-size-fits-all kind of shoulder warmer shrug. Not your typical granny square. Visit the pattern page here...
http://www.etsy.com/listing/84058713/crochet-pattern-granny-square-circle and the finished sweater is available in the same Ecru color as in the photo here... http://www.etsy.com/listing/83310800/ecru-wool-shrug-crochet-circle-sweater

Click HERE for all available patterns.

I Love Yarn Day

2011-10-14T06:15:00.008-04:00

October 14th is I Love Yarn Day. (As if I need a day to celebrate something that I love EVERY DAY!!)
Have you had a chance to visit Craftsy.com yet? I've posted a few patterns there and have had an overwhelmingly positive experience from the site. Be sure to stop and browse through the project pages (some of which are not yarn-related).
While normally, the site runs like a breeze, I happened upon this "oops, something's not right" page and thought it was so cute, so I took a screen shot. What a cute "fail whale" - Tangled Kitty!
What are some things that you can do to celebrate I Love Yarn Day?
Take yarn to work today. Wear something that's knitted or crocheted. Teach someone to knit or crochet.
I work with yarn every day, so to make this day extra special I've decided to gather some hats and mittens and donate them to our local clothing drive. Although I just took several bags to the Good Will, I'm sure I can gather a few more things. My daughter's volunteer group at school is called the V-Squad and they're collecting coats and accessories for local kids and they could sure use some handmade goodies!
There's only one yarn-related past-time that I really don't care for, and that's "yarn bombing". Some people like to knit or crochet "graffiti-style" around trees, light poles, park benches, and more.

KnitKnotTree by the JafaGirls

What are your favorite yarns? I love yarn every day. Here are some fabulous yarns that I can't wait to get my hands on. Most are Cascade Eco Wool, with a bit of Milabrigo and a gorgeous purple handspun that my sister made for me!

Circles

2011-08-25T09:45:00.004-04:00

Circles seem to be all the rage. I've come up with a pattern for my circle vest shrug since so many people have asked for it. Some designs start with a circle at the back and continue all the way around the collar. This one has a distinct square back to it, with an added circular collar around. You can add a button or use a shawl pin. I have both the pattern and finished designs available at LazyTcrochet.Etsy.com.
Here's one in Paprika, with a wooden button...

And Black, with a wooden shawl pin...

The pattern is available in my Etsy shop here. See my post on Foundationless Crochet for tips!

Felting Time

2011-07-12T07:47:00.005-04:00

While Granny Squares are not my favorite thing to crochet, I am excited about felting them into a groovy handbag. It's been a long time since I've felted (or fulled) anything fun. Hats are my favorite thing to felt, but I'll be making mittens, purses, slippers, and more. I think I'll get an electric tea kettle to use down stairs. My water is hot, but it doesn't stay hot enough and I like to add a kettle of hot water to it as it cools down. I was making myself nervous carrying a kettle of boiling water down the stairs.

Crocheting or knitting something and then felting it in hot water is my favorite form of felting.
Wet-felting is fun, but I tend to make a huge mess! Needlefelting is something I'd like to do more of. I've never been "artistic" in the drawing or painting sense, but needle felting seemed to coax the creativity right out of me. It flowed so easily as I painted with the wool. So, I'll be working with some raw and colorful fibers very soon!

Have a Coke and a Smile

2011-07-08T20:36:00.002-04:00

For some reason, I thought this Coke basket was pretty cool. And, I got a new camera and needed to take a picture of something!

It's Strawberry Time

2011-06-22T08:23:00.001-04:00

****This is a repost of a 2008 blog.****
I thought I'd share a recipe that's been used in my family for as long as I can remember. Every year when the local strawberries are ripe, I buy a flat and freeze some. Sometimes I make strawberry jam, but I definitely have to make a batch of shortcake since the berries are so sweet.

Strawberry Shortcake
Mix together with a wooden spoon 1/4 cup, plus 2 Tablespoons shortening and 1/3 cup sugar. Add 1 egg and mix well. Add 1/2 teaspoon vanilla.
Mix together the dry ingredients - 1 1/2 cups flour, 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, and a dash of salt.
Add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, alternating with 1/3 cup of milk. Mix until combined. If it's too stiff, add more milk (I almost always do, but no one ever changed the recipe).
Bake in a greased round or square 8 or 9" cake pan, sprinkling the top with sugar, if desired...or in muffin cups (approximately 8 muffins). I made a double batch to take to a party last weekend. I love mine served with sliced, sugared berries and milk. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.
Eat it fresh, or the next day. If you cover them with a towel, the sugar tops will stay crisp for awhile. If you store it tightly in a plastic bag, they'll still be delicious, but will get softer.
This is really good with peaches and other fresh berries also!
Enjoy!

Lemon Balm Pudding

2011-05-20T14:05:00.003-04:00

I thinned out the lemon balm patch this morning. It smells so wonderful when first-picked, but you have to use a lot of it for a recipe as well as accentuate the flavor with some lemon rind or juice.
I made an easy cornstarch pudding and added a lot of chopped lemon balm. It instantly lost the lemony aroma, so I added two large pieces of lemon rind. I opted to strain it since it looked a bit chunky. Now it looks like Vichyssoise, but it tastes deliciously fresh! Add some to sweet bread recipes or cookies, but don't forget the lemon!

***Edited to add more lemon balm recipes previously blogged.
Here is a refrigerator cookie recipe with Lemon Balm...
http://lazytcrochet.blogspot.com/2009/05/fresh-lemon-balm.html

And a vinaigrette or marinade recipe.....
http://lazytcrochet.blogspot.com/2008/05/use-what-you-havegarden-edition.html

A Little Birdie Told Me

2011-05-06T10:42:00.005-04:00

...but I already knew! These are my Mom's favorite cookies. I posted the recipe for "Nonie Cookies" a few years ago
but thought I'd share it again. I'm baking these sweet little birds and sending a package to my Mom for Mother's Day. Hopefully they'll arrive with only a few broken tails.

This was my great-grandmother Eleanor's recipe for sugar cookies. They've since come to be called "Nonie Cookies" since she was "Grandma Nonie." It is a classic cookie recipe, enjoyed all year long. I like them a little thick, while my Mom likes them thin and crispy. See what you think.

NONIE COOKIES

Mix together 3 1/2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar and a dash of freshly ground nutmeg. Make a well in the center and add 1 cup shortening, 1 egg, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Mix well.

Roll half the dough on a floured cloth or board. Sprinkle with sugar and roll it in gently. Cut with your favorite cookie cutters. Bake at 350° until lightly brown. Roll and cut remaining dough. You can use colored sugars if desired.

April Showers - Will we ever see May flowers?

2011-04-20T11:01:00.000-04:00

Hot Mustard

2011-04-04T15:35:00.003-04:00

While I do love this color, I've been working with it so much lately that I'm getting tired of the mustard! I just finished this custom bolero in crochet and am knitting a vest next. For acrylic, Vanna's Choice does make a lovely sweater.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/LazyTcrochet

Fantastic Day Giveaway!

2011-03-24T12:49:00.009-04:00

I think that my 500th Sale on Etsy is worthy of a blog giveaway....don't you?? Today has been a fantastic day. Not only did I sell this Chunky Knit Cowl to hit the 500 mark, but I also am discussing a few custom orders with clients, AND submitting some original patterns to a magazine!
I thought I'd celebrate by giving away one of my most popular designs. The winner will receive a custom pair of fingerless gloves in their color choice!
The rules are as follows: Open to U.S. residents only. One entry per person. Contest closes at midnight on March 31st. One winner will be chosen from all eligible entries. If the winner does not respond to my email within 2 weeks, I will choose another winner.

How to enter? Just make a comment on this post and be sure to include your email address (or make sure your blog profile links to a contact email).

CONTEST is now CLOSED. Winner will be announced soon. Thanks!

And the winner is.. Jane! (Chosen at random from random.org.) Thanks to everyone who entered and for all your kind comments!
A big THANK YOU to all my customers and friends!!!

I Can Smell Spring!

2011-03-08T13:26:00.003-05:00

A quick collection of fun finds to represent the itch of Spring Fever!
I Can Smell Spring! by LazyTcrochet.Etsy.com

It's Not Over Yet!

2011-02-12T06:26:00.005-05:00

Although the birds seem to be a lot more active this week, the temperatures here have been brutally cold. Winter, it seems, is not over yet! The groundhog predicted an early Spring. We can only hope!
Here are a few new things to help keep you warm. I love making wraps and this Mobius style is fun to wear. Wear it as a hood or as a shoulder warmer - with the twist to the side with a brooch, or just loose and casual. Here's one in a pretty Granite Gray.

I've also designed my own pattern for Hooded Scarves. I like to make the hood part rounded at the top so it's not too pointy. This soft, homespun-style yarn drapes nicely, is lightweight, yet warm!

Visit my Etsy shop for some warm gifts for yourself or others! Custom orders are welcome.

Crusty Bread

2011-02-02T12:57:00.002-05:00

My mom gave me a baguette pan a few years ago, but I was afraid to try it. Now that I found this recipe, I've been making a lot of baguettes! Here is the original recipe, written for a bread machine. I'd rather mix the dough by hand than bother with a bread machine.
French Baquettes Recipe on Allrecipes.com

Here's my adapted version that's easy to mix by hand or with a dough hook on your mixer.
In your mixer bowl or a large bowl, mix together 1 1/2 teaspoons yeast, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 cup bread flour, and 1 cup warm water. Mix well and let sit 5 minutes, until bubbly. Add 1 1/2 cups bread flour, mix well and knead (either by hand or with the dough hook on the mixer) until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, roll it around so that the top of the dough is greased also, cover and let rise in a warm place until double.
Roll the dough out on a floured board until it measures approximately 12" X 16". Cut with a sharp knife into two pieces 8" X 12". Starting on a 12" side, roll each piece, trying not to allow bubbles or too much flour. Pinch the ends closed and place on a greased baguette pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. With a sharp knife, cut 3 diagonal slits in each. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 375°. Mix together 1 egg yolk and 1 tablespoon water and gently brush over the tops of the bread. Bake 20 - 25 minutes in preheated oven until golden brown. Cool on a rack.

Baby It's Cold Outside!

2010-12-19T08:16:00.007-05:00

We're in between snow storms here. It's been clear and COLD! I was so glad to have nice weather for Cleveland Handmade's Last Minute Market. The crowd was fantastic and it's so nice to see people buying handmade!
Here's a fun selection of gifts from some of my Cleveland Etsy Teammates...
Click HERE to browse all items from the ClevelanTeam.

Blizzard Necklace from Simple Elements Design
What a pretty necklace! I do love snow!

Pearl Gray on White Lace Medallion Dinner Napkins from giardino
I thought the lace print on these linen napkins looked like snow! These would make a lovely gift.

Waiting for Santa Holiday Greeting cards
I love these cards from ApollosonAcres! Horses are so pretty, especially when they are having fun in the snow!

Last Minute Market!

2010-12-15T07:39:00.000-05:00

for complete details on the Last Minute Market & Screw Factory Open Studio and the Early Bird Hour to benefit the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland, please visit: http://handmadefeelsgood.com/

Cookie Time!

2010-11-30T11:01:00.005-05:00

Food Network has started its 12 Days of Cookies emails, so I guess that means it's time to start baking cookies! I was looking through my blog to see what kinds of recipes I've shared over the years. Several of our family favorites are posted and many of them freeze well. Why not start now and get a head start on the holidays? Here are a few favorite cookie recipes. There are a lot more recipes on the blog (search "recipes").

Cocoa Drops with Browned Butter Icing

Christmas Cookies (or Nonie Cookies)

Sugar and Spice

Rugelach Little Nut Rolls

Owlish Wish List

2010-11-22T10:29:00.003-05:00

My niece LOVES owls and I think their fascination has rubbed off on me. Owls are so beautiful and anytime I see a handmade owl item, I take time to admire them. Here are a few gorgeous pieces that I would love to own...or have shipped to my niece in Finland!

Owl Family Soap from SatinandBirch

SAWWHET OWL Original Art Greeting Card from catcanpaint

Get Creative!

2010-11-14T06:40:00.004-05:00

Fun finds to help spark ideas in kids.
Check out all the fun clip art packages available at TheNaughtyPenguin. Kids are pretty tech-savvy these days. I picture them having fun making Christmas cards for family and teachers. Girl Scout groups making cards and packages for the nursing home. Creative holiday and cookie exchange invitations, and more! There are so many fun designs. It was hard to choose some to show. Stop by and see for yourself @ TheNaughtyPenguin.Etsy.com.

DIYFluffies is a really cute shop, full of sewing patterns and kits to make your own soft toys! This kit comes with everything except the stuffing and looks like it would be a great project for someone learning to sew. There are lots of designs to choose from and even more patterns to do it yourself. Look at all the cuteness at DIYFluffies.Etsy.com!

Want an easier project for kids to sew? The Pocket Doll Kits by ConnieLouFabrics offer an array of dolls and ornament kits that are printed on soft fleece fabric. You cut them out, sew and stuff them into dolls or add a ribbon for ornaments. They would make great gifts for kids to give!
Visit ConnieLouFabrics.Etsy.com to see all the fun designs.

More from the Greatest Sweater Ever

2010-11-02T13:21:00.004-04:00

Do you remember these two purses that I made awhile ago? I finally made a Button Cowl or Collar from the collar of the original sweater. I've been wanting to do this for a long time and I finally found some classic vintage sweater buttons to use. I used matching wool to crochet a button hole edging along the one side. I LOVE how this turned out. It is so cool and comfortable, affording lots of different ways to wear it.

AND, I still have the sleeves! I'm thinking of making some mittens, then all I'll have left are scraps for flowers and a fabulous wool belt. I'm just sorry that I didn't take a picture of the entire sweater before I started all these projects.

Win your Wish List

2010-10-29T19:25:00.005-04:00

Did you know that you can add items from any website to your Amazon.com Wish List?? That's pretty cool. I've added some gorgeous handspun yarns from favorite Etsy spinners to mine. And, when you add an item to your Wish List, you are eligible to enter The Wish and Win $100,000 Sweepstakes from Amazon.com.
How does it work? It's easy. First you install their "Add To Wish List" button to your bookmarks toolbar. (Make sure you're already signed up for an account at Amazon.com.) When you're browsing the internet and see something that you'd like, click on "Add To Wish List" and it will automatically be added.

Read the official rules HERE, but you can enter once a week from now until December 19th and you could possibly win your wish list! What a great way to win some Holiday Gifts from LazyTcrochet!

Color Chart

2010-10-13T09:18:00.003-04:00

I just made a fun color chart for an upcoming Blog Review and Giveaway. I love all the colors available in Caron's Simply Soft. I stink at tying tiny bows and the yarn tends to separate as well. I think next time I'll make tiny swatches.
Watch for an upcoming Glove Giveaway here on my blog as well. Stay tuned!

Be Social, Not Snarky!

2010-10-06T10:58:00.008-04:00

Cute and Snarky Pet Tags from BowWowzerZ.Etsy.com

"How is it that we've been both doing this same show for over three years now and I've never seen your stuff?" This was the question recently posed to me by a local crafter. The answer? "Because you never took the time to look around you!"
Seriously. I've been doing art and craft shows for several years now and it always amazes me how many people walk right on by. I know it's sometimes busy and you may be by yourself at this show, but it really would only take a few minutes of your time to walk around, talk to people and make an effort to see what it is that they do. Some shows are huge and you wouldn't have time to visit everyone (and I'm not saying that you have to), but if it's a smaller show or if there's a lull in the crowd, what's stopping you?
You may not be interested in my knit and crochet goodies. That's okay. I would still take time to look at yours. Even if I've seen you at a previous show and even if I am not interested in buying something from you, I would still smile and say hello as I moved on around the room.
These friends are brimming with creativity. You'll never know what you'll find! It's called Social Networking. So, take some time to respect your local crafter today. Thank you!

Counting Crows

2010-09-21T11:42:00.004-04:00

One Crow Sorrow
Two Crows Joy
Three Crows a Wedding
Four Crows a Boy
Five crows Silver
Six Crows Gold
Seven Crows a Secret
Never to be told.

- Author Unknown

There are many variations of this, including death, witches, Heaven and Hell. I also read about crows holding court and ganging up on one another. Although they can be noisy, crows can be fun to watch. There is a family of three that live around here. I've seen a lot of crow art on Etsy lately, so I'm guessing it's a trend for the coming Halloween/Autumn season. I particularly love this Black Raven Wash from Poor Dog Farm.

Sparx Hop Pops

2010-09-06T08:36:00.004-04:00

I picked up a Cleveland magazine to look for the Sparx City Hop Passport. Lo and behold, it pops right open!

Cleveland Handmade Market 9/11

2010-09-03T07:15:00.005-04:00

SEPTEMBER 11th and DECEMBER 4th, 2010 10am-6pm

Our next two Markets will be in downtown Cleveland at the Wooltex Gallery.

Get a headstart on your handmade holiday shopping!

Enjoy the historic Tower Press building (and its in-house eatery, the Artefino Art Gallery Cafe.)
Find a Sparx City Hop Passport and present it for 10% off your purchase with any seller at the Market, the Wooltex Gallery and at Artefino! This discount will be offered at both of our Markets at the Wooltex!

Easy access from Interstate 90 and free off-street parking.

The Cleveland Handmade Market at Wooltex
The Wooltex Gallery at Tower Press
1900 Superior Ave.
Cleveland, Ohio 44113 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Participating Artists include... LiseAnderson MsKittysCloset SilverMadeStudio SusanKjewelry LazyTcrochet LesTroisFleurs UrbanArtifaks Elizabeth Vilkas Francine Ruth Karen Kress Valerie Tyler Karen Koch Gretchen Ciccotti Chris Zielski Sarah Dougherty Lena Szakaly Jen Nemrava Lea Wiertel Thomas Kukich Sheryl Siegel Mandizzle C.L.E. Clothing Co. Carla Morris

Click here for more details.

Red

2010-08-31T08:26:00.000-04:00

Visit and browse...

Everything Autumn

2010-08-30T16:50:00.003-04:00

While it's still pretty hot here in Northeast Ohio, I can't help looking forward to Fall and all it's colors! I certainly don't want to rush it, or we'll be shoveling snow before you know it. I just thought I'd show you what I've been up to, by incorporating some rich, crisp, warm tones.
I cut up more fabric strips and used some to accent this dark orange T-shirt scarf or necklace. I cut the remaining fabric and wound it into two small balls and it's waiting for me to make a cute little bag with it.

My brother gave me a set of vintage leaves. They were an antique lace color, but looked like they were for needlepoint, or other needlework project. They're bigger than my hand and I thought they would look pretty hanging in a window. I bought some needlefelting supplies last year intended just for this project and I wasn't about to let another Fall go by without giving it a try.

These took me all day. I tweaked colors here and there, agonizing over them at times. I'm pretty happy with the way they turned out, but I've determined that I don't enjoy the artistic aspect of needlefelting. I think I'll keep it simple and not take on too big of a project next time. I'm thinking of making these into a garland or perhaps a mobile with a wooden stick of some sort. They'll be hanging in my tent for the next show at Wooltex!

And so it begins!

2010-07-22T10:45:00.002-04:00

The next Cleveland Handmade Market will be on Saturday, September 11th, 2010 at the Wooltex Gallery on Superior Avenue. This Market will be a part of the Sparx City Hop.

We will have indoor and outdoor spaces available. Please visit Http://ClevelandHandmade.com/2010-applications for more information and to apply online or by mail.

You can also RSVP and invite others to the event via Facebook by clicking here.

See you there! :)

Etsy Craft Party Doodlez

2010-06-20T08:04:00.005-04:00

Thanks to Valerie Tyler for hosting the Cleveland Etsy Craft Party! It was in celebration of Etsy's 5th birthday. Since we had such a great response to the Meetup RSVP's, Etsy sent us a craft goody box.
I knew there were going to be porcelain paints, so I stopped at Goodwill on my way. I didn't find anything worth painting there, so I went next door to Dollar Tree and picked up four plain white coffee mugs. I am not at all crafty, but I thought that, if I bring extra mugs, maybe someone would paint something fun for me and make something for themselves as well. (I should have bought more, but wasn't sure who was bringing what.)
(Brenda, Tricia, and Nidhi)
It just so happens that my friend, Brenda, from BDoodleZ Cards and Design was there (BDoodlez.Etsy.com). Though she said she has way too many coffee mugs as it is, she was happy to make something fun for me. Some people just used the colorful markers from Pebeo and others used the paint as well. As the light faded, we looked everywhere for the elusive green marker. The colors from the markers are bright and beautiful. I'm anxious to see the finished products from those who used the paints as well.

It had to sit for 24 hours before I could bake it, but I just had coffee in my beautiful new mug this morning.
Thank you so much Brenda! I love it! (Check out the beautiful doodlez and cards in her shop!)

Fun Giveaway at Fashion In The Forest

2010-06-10T10:21:00.001-04:00

Stop by and follow Fashion In The Forest to enter the 25 Follower Giveaway! Fun prizes are up for grabs.

Clan Buchanan Complete

2010-06-10T09:06:00.005-04:00

I can't believe that it's been 2 1/2 years since I started this project. I blogged about this afghan that I had started for my aunt and uncle. (January 2008!) It's crocheted and then woven for the plaid effect. I zipped through the crochet part and then hit my busy season and weaving the chains seemed to take forever. Well, Mom finally took the project home with her and finished it in no time. She gave it to my aunt and uncle months ago, but I never got to see it...until now. It turned out great! Thanks Mom.

Isn't this cute...

2010-06-02T09:01:00.005-04:00

Isn't it funny how these two pictures are side-by-side like that? I was looking at who "hearts" this purse and happened to notice. I'm assuming the two have nothing in common other than the pose.
Thanks for the hearts ClydeKellerPhoto and prairiewind.

CLYDE KELLER said...
"Well, that's fun. Actually what I had in mind in choosing this pose is from a famous photo by Yousuf Karsh of Oscar Wilde- always admired it. My avatar is a homage to these two great artists from the last century."

Thanks Clyde!

Here, There, and Everywhere!

2010-04-30T11:34:00.005-04:00

Today's topic for the Knit & Crochet Blog Week is "Where do you like to indulge in your craft?" and, for me, it is more like "Where don't I?"
When I was younger I used to tease my sister because she was always knitting. Now, I know why. It's so easy to take my knitting and crochet wherever I go. I spent an hour knitting in the car last night, waiting for my daughter who was late from rehearsal. So, I have gotten into the habit of keeping a project with me most of the time. You never know when you'll need to kill some time.

My most favorite place to knit or crochet is around the campfire. We cook outside a lot in the summer, whether it's while camping, or just in our back yard. We often grill over a wood fire and sometimes use the dutch oven. One thing about knitting (or crocheting) around the fire, is that your project will smell like smoke. So, I wouldn't work on a custom order, or anything that couldn't be washed. But something that's going to be felted in the washing machine anyway is the perfect project!

I especially love making shawls. They're such an old world style and working on one while relaxing around the fire gives me a wonderful "homey" feeling. Oh and it's even better when the kids are singing Spongebob's C.A.M.P.F.I.R.E. S.O.N.G. song!

Knit & Crochet Blog Week Day 3 (and 4)

2010-04-29T07:17:00.005-04:00

Well....it seems that I blog too much. hehe
The topic for day 3 was "One Great Knitter" - I'll expand that into crochet. I have often written about The Crochet Works of Sally V. George. In a recent post, I showed a particular technique that I adapted from one of Sally's patterns. And, once again, I'll say how grateful I am that her daughter has made the original patterns available on her website at HookandYarn.com. Check out the list of free crochet patterns for some vintage fun.
And, just yesterday I wrote how inspired I was by the cables on the tunic pattern from Lion Brand. Cables are definitely a skill that I hope to learn some day.

As far as a crochet skill, I'd like to do more in Tunisian crochet. Isn't this jacket beautiful? Check out the designs by Julia Bryant. They are gorgeous!

An Inspirational Pattern - Knit and Crochet Blog Week, Day 2

2010-04-27T00:01:00.003-04:00

Cables! I love the beauty of the many knit cable stitches, but I haven't taken the time to try them. Well, I did try a cable pattern a long time ago, but I was new to knitting and totally confused. This particular pattern from Lion Brand is beautiful, but probably not something I'd choose as my first attempt. They were offering it as a knit-a-long awhile ago and I would have loved to try it. Maybe someday. For now, I think I'll stick with a simple cabled leg warmer design.
To see more posts from Day 2 of Knit and Crochet Blog Week click HERE.

Starting Out - Do More Than Chain - Knitting and Crochet Blog Week , Day 1

2010-04-26T13:16:00.006-04:00

When I was young, my Mom taught me how to crochet, or so I thought. I knew how to chain, chain, chain. And chain long chains I did. It was years later, when I had my own kids, that I decided to learn on my own. I had some old needlework books which each included a chapter on Crochet. That, combined with all the crochet books that our tiny town library had, provided me with the basic knowledge needed. I gave away some funky hats and eyeglass cases, lots of crochet-topped towels and dishcloths, and slippers galore. After awhile, I decided to try my hand at local craft shows and almost got stuck in the poncho era.
My skills evolved with a desire to create my own designs. I still enjoy creating classic designs in shawls, hats, mittens, and slippers, while not afraid to step out of the box and make something fun or "different". As I've written about before, I often find inspiration from buttons, especially BIG buttons, and I'm not afraid to create my own designs without patterns. Luxurious wraps, felted purses, funky hoods, etc
.
As far as knitting is concerned, I started out slowly. I had a busy crochet business, and knitting anything seemed to take me forever in comparison. I do love to knit, and am still learning many techniques. I am grateful for the internet access that we have now, compare to when I was first learning crochet. It's easy to look up a knit stitch or bind-off method online.
I'm glad that my Mom showed me the basics of crochet. She still crochets and knits, some for accessories for herself, and some for charity. My sister is a wonderful knitter and especially enjoys knitting her own handspun wool. I have taught my daughter to crochet and she knows the basics enough to teach her friends to make bracelets and scarves. She also models many of my creations.
You can read more entries from Day 1 of the Knitting and Crochet Blog Week HERE.

Knit & Crochet Blog Week is next week!

2010-04-21T08:01:00.003-04:00

Calling all yarn-loving bloggers!
Next week is Knit & Crochet Blog Week. Hosted by eskimimi knits, every day between 26th April – 2nd May 2010 there will be a blogging topic (relating to knitting and crochet) asking for your experiences, opinions and hopes on various aspects of your hobby, one topic and a short explanation is provided for each day, plus a ‘wildcard’ topic in case you just don’t fancy one of the blogging topics for any particular day.
Check out eskimimi knits blog for a complete list of topics and FAQ's!

Digging In

2010-04-20T18:41:00.005-04:00

We've got the garden tilled and have some herbs and onions growing. The asparagus is just starting to pop up! If you haven't yet, check out this asparagus post from May '08 for tasty tidbits....
Jolly Green Giant - asparagus recipes

Vintage Inspiration

2010-04-19T08:49:00.007-04:00

I dug up some really fun things while sprucing up my craft room! I don't really like calling it a craft room, but it's not really a "studio" either. Truthfully, it's a room to hold the yarn. As much as I try, I can't help but have piles, bags, and bins of yarn everywhere. I was able to assemble the wools and added some cedar blocks to keep it clean. I'm glad I made room for this table. It will be nice to sew somewhere other than the dining room table.
As I've noted in previous posts, buttons are always inspiring. I've often designed things based on buttons. And some will wait for the perfect project. While most are in a shoebox, I laid out a few, just for inspiration. Sometimes when they get put away, I lose track of what I have and what I want to make with them.

My favorite re-find as I was organizing was a stash of vintage books and magazines. "Make It With Mademoiselle" was published in 1971 and has some really cool chunky knit and crochet designs as well as some other fashion and home decor patterns.
These McCall's "Needlework and Crafts" were published annually and are a huge 13", compared to later, common-sized issues. The older issue doesn't have a date anywhere. It says "McCall's Needlework & Crafts Annual Vol. IV" I couldn't find anything online about what date this would be. They seemed to switch to a bi-annual magazine in the 1950's, and some of these look older (perhaps late 40's? if not early 50's). These hats are beautiful. I've been on the lookout for sequins! I love the one in the top right. I would love to try that on! Maybe I could start a new trend.
I went through some of the issues from the 1970's and thought I'd like to make a top like this, with crochet and gauze. I remember wearing something similar. There are also some cape designs that I'm anxious to study. I love making capes and have a few ideas for Fall.

One Sweater Two Bags

2010-04-14T12:39:00.005-04:00

It's coming up on Earth Day and I always try to find a new project or creative way to reuse or recycle something. I rescued this wool cardigan from a thrift store and couldn't decide whether to keep it or not. I got tired of Spring cleaning around it, and of not being able to make up my mind!

So, today, I made the decision and took my scissors to it! Using only the main body of the sweater, I was able to make these two fun recycled bags. The first one is a messenger/flap style, using a recycled adjustable strap and leather tabs. The other makes good use of these simple, but large wooden hoop handles.
Nothing fancy, yet perfectly reusable!
Here's Bag 1 - http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=44772485
and Bag 2 - http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=44773587

Chicken Scratch?

2010-04-13T07:21:00.004-04:00

Have you ever come across a note and wondered "what the heck was I thinking?" or "I wonder what this is supposed to mean"? I've had this envelope in my pattern folder for a few years now, and, only recently remembered what it referred to. I knew it was an important reminder, but of what, I had no clue.
This is actually a handmade chart for a crocheted shawl pattern. Normally, I don't use charts very often. Charts are more for filet crochet, or intricate thread designs. At the time, I wanted to remember how I had started this particular shawl....without writing out all the stitches.
Now that I've tried it again, I know why I had written it out that way. It was a favorite design and it saved a lot of writing. It was a lesson learned - to take better notes!

Frog-A-Thon

2010-04-07T07:33:00.008-04:00

I'm finishing up a pretty shrug for a customer today and tomorrow, but I've also signed up for the CreateCrochet Team's Frog-a-thon. The challenge is to finish as many WIPS and PIGS as you can. I've got several items that need finishing.
One WIP (or work in progress) is a sweater with a lot of ruffling. I finished the sweater part fairly quickly, but the ruffle takes forever! I've decided to keep this one to wear to shows. I might skip this project since I won't need it until Fall.
I also have a purse design in a bag (PIGS = Projects in Grocery Bags), but I've only just started it. Perfect handles and purse feet await.
I have these two felted bags that need finished, lined and assembled.
I thought I'd check the blog for WIPS. I found this hat, which is to be felted. I also have one black glove and one purple glove, which both need a match.

The Frog-A-Thon ends Sunday - stop back to see the result!
***The update is....that there is no update! LOL It was a gorgeous weekend. We had friends and family visiting and I didn't get much accomplished on the crochet front. There's always tomorrow : )

The Lost Arts

2010-03-24T07:48:00.005-04:00

I've been researching crochet stitches for a shawl that I'm designing. I have a few old Needlework books that I love to look through and always end up getting lost in time. There are so many techniques that have come and gone, to only live on in antique pieces and books.
This morning, I found myself browsing this site for hours - "The Project Gutenberg eBook of Encyclopedia of Needlework by Theresa De Dillmont".
While I don't enjoy working with thread these days, I think it's fun to incorporate some stitches or motifs into a modern design. I was browsing the "Crochet Work" section, only to find that there are hundreds of needlework techniques preserved in this invaluable document! Finding inspiration from these designs makes me realize how much I could have learned from my great-grandmother, Eleanor. I do have some placemats that she made and I hope to recreate that pattern some day. I also have a hooked rug and a rocking chair that are in need of repair, and a weaving loom that a good friend gave to me. Show me the way, Grandma Nonie!

Sally Inspires Me!

2010-03-23T06:13:00.006-04:00

I first wrote about Sally V. George last March for National Crochet Month. Here's an excerpt...

"I've had a link on the side of my blog for a long time now of The Crochet Works of Sally V. George. Her remarkable talent is painstakingly-detailed in the patterns she created. The website continues now, thanks to her family. I encourage anyone to make a donation through Paypal in order to keep the site going and continue to make Sally's works available to us all. While the patterns may look "old" to some, to me they are quite inspiring."
I'm so happy that her family has continued to make the patterns available on a new, updated website at The Hook & Yarn Shop. You can read about Sally's work and download patterns to learn from her wisdom.

My favorite from the collection, is the Easter Basket. The handle uses a piece of cotton clothesline and the crossed-chain trim on this design is beautiful. I've learned so many techniques from Sally's patterns, but this trim is my favorite. You can see how I added this style to the sleeve edging on this Pink Shrug design from a few years ago.
Although some of the designs may seem old-fashioned, and you may not ordinarily make things like that, I encourage you to take a closer look....it may inspire you!

Greener than the Grass

2010-03-17T11:52:00.003-04:00

I did a little felting experiment. I think it turned out okay. I wrote everything down so that I can make some changes to the design next time. The handle needs to be a little wider and maybe a little shorter. Going by the general rule of thumb that crochet felts more lengthwise than widthwise kind of screwed me up a little. I didn't get the 80% shrinkage lengthwise that I had written down from a previous swatch. I think that, when felting crochet, a lot depends on the stitch. Single crochet felts differently than half-double or double crochet would.

Here's the bag pre-felted.

And here it is drying on the line. I have it stuffed with a soccer ball and some plastic bags. Direct sun is probably not a good idea, but Hooray, the sun is shining!!
As long as no birds poo on it, I think the project can be considered a success! The color is "lemongrass" which is actually greener than the grass today. I hope this bag sells at a local show this weekend. If not, look for it in my Etsy shop next week, with more to follow.

To Fringe, or Not to Fringe?

2010-03-09T12:57:00.004-05:00

...that is the question. I never know whether people would prefer a shawl with or without fringe. It depends on a person's preference, as well as the type of yarn. If it's a type of yarn that will come apart then it usually doesn't make good fringe. You can knot it, or crochet the fringe, and there are even some knitting patterns that work the fringe as you go or have you unravel a few rows around the edge of a pattern to create fringe.
Some designs look better with a decorative edging, or even just a plain, simple edge, while mod or retro styles call for that shaggy, groovy fringe.
I'd love to know...what's your style? Fringe...or no fringe?
Let me know your comments AND take the poll on the top right of the blog? (It's my first blog poll!) Thanks

Foundationless Crochet?

2010-03-05T06:40:00.006-05:00

I thought I'd share with you one of my favorite techniques. Instead of starting every project with a chain strip, using a "foundationless" stitch can speed up the start of your project and allow for more stretch than a starting chain would.

A foundationless DC, or DC Chain, is my favorite way to start a simple, lengthwise scarf. It is also good for garments that you crochet from the bottom edge up, since it creates a stretchier edge as compared to a starting chain. It's easy to change a pattern that calls for a starting chain and then a row of DC. Just work a row of foundationless DC (or DC Chain) instead.
Start with a Ch 3. YO, insert hook into the first Ch, YO and pull through. YO and pull through one loop to create the base chain (3 loops remain on hook).
Now work a DC as normal - YO and pull through 2 loops, YO and pull through last 2 loops.
To work the next DC Ch, YO and insert the hook into what was the last base chain stitch. (To make this easier to find, I usually hold that stitch as I'm finishing the DC so I know where the chain stitch is when I move on to the next one.)
YO and pull through, creating the next base chain. (Hold this stitch if you want to to mark it.) Then work the DC - YO, pull through 2 loops. YO, pull through last 2 loops. Continue working DC Ch for as long as you want your project to be.
So each stitch consists of a base chain and finishes with a double crochet, all in one stitch.

A favorite project that uses this stitch is this Moebius Shawl or Scarf. It starts with a foundationless DC strip long enough to fit comfortably around your shoulders. This project has a twist to it so that you just keep crocheting around and around until your shawl is as wide as you want it to be. It's a fun project, no matter what type of yarn you choose.

I also have incorporated this stitch in the foundation of my Circle Shrug Vest Pattern.

For the love of Crochet!

2010-03-02T08:35:00.005-05:00

National Crochet Month continues!

As I think about some inspiring crafters, Vickie Howell comes to mind first. I was lucky enough to win a copy of her latest book "AwareKnits: Knit and Crochet Projects for the Eco-Conscious Knitter" and have been an avid follower/stalker of Vickie's for a long time now. I never got to watch her tv show "Knitty Gritty" because we didn't get the DIY network, but I am glad to be a part of the Craft Corps where "craft is community * community is craft".
Vickie is an all-around crafter who, obviously, loves all sorts of crafts. You can attend workshops on various topics, including crochet, at Stitch Lab in Austin, TX as well as catch some fun kids crafts on "Craft Apparent" on the PBS Parents Blog.
"Knitty Gritty" fans will be happy to know that there's an archive of patterns from the show available at DIY here. There are lots of knit, crochet, and misc. projects and patterns available at VickieHowell.com. Be sure to check out "Pop Goes Crochet" for those true-to-crochet.
You can follow Vickie Howell on Twitter @VickieHowell and click the picture above to visit her blog!

National Crochet Month

2010-03-01T07:15:00.005-05:00

March is National Crochet Month! I'll be taking the opportunity to show my love of crochet all month long. There are many go-to websites, informative blogs, techniques, and patterns for those who love to crochet or for those who want to learn.

A great place to start is Crochet.About.com. For years Sandi Marshall posted classic stitches and patterns with tips for the beginners to the experts in crochet. Now, Amy Solovay is the Crochet Guide at About.com, continuing to provide fresh and inspiring ways to enhance your crochet repertoire.
If you want some ideas for an edging for a project or to find a flower pattern, About.com offers a great selection. New to crochet? About.com offers step-by-step tutorials and how-to videos.
A great way to start is by making a dish cloth. Kitchen cotton is readily available and there are many crochet dishcloth patterns to choose from.

Here is my favorite stitch or pattern for dischloths from Crochet 'N' More. Dishcloths work up quickly and make great gifts.
I'll be celebrating National Crochet Month with more patterns, websites, and design inspirations. Feel free to share some of your crochet favorites!

More Fishy Dreams

2010-02-25T09:25:00.003-05:00

I'm not the only one dreaming of fish. My cat won't eat fishy treats, but she LOVES to stare at the fish bowl. Check out this cute ACEO from magicbeanbuyer "mmm fish".

Thinking of you Goldfish Wristlets

2010-02-21T19:45:00.002-05:00

Thinking of you Goldfish Wristlets, originally uploaded by lazytcrochet.

I had these fun goldfish bowl buttons and I kept thinking and thinking of what to do with them. Do you daydream of your goldfish? Fun Fingerless Gloves on Etsy

Notes from the Trail

2010-02-18T07:38:00.002-05:00

It's been awhile since I did a trail post. This time, I forged my own trail. I decided to take advantage of the plentiful snow and take a nice long ski. While some of the old farm roads had been plowed at some point, the fields were difficult since I was up to my knees in snow. What a beautiful sight...and a fantastic workout!

Check out my Flickr set for more snowy pictures from this trip.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lazytcrochet/sets/72157623335082873/

Win a Mandala Print from playnature and Cleveland Handmade!

2010-02-12T06:47:00.003-05:00

Stop by ClevelandHandmade.com and enter to win a Mandala Print from playnature and Cleveland Handmade. (See site for details...U.S. only, ends Wednesday, Feb. 17th, etc. etc.)

You can even get a mandala on a pendant!
Super Go Green Glass Pendant Mandala

3 Year Etsy Anniversary!

2010-01-29T08:53:00.005-05:00

This weekend marks my 3rd year of having a boutique on Etsy! It's been fun to look back and see how the styles and designs have changed over the years.

Italian Earrings - this week's CH Giveaway!

2010-01-29T05:28:00.003-05:00

Enter to win these fun and pretty earrings from ErikaOriginals.
"Images from a vintage French dictionary and a vintage atlas showing the cities of Rome, Naples, and Milan are placed into vintage brass settings and covered with waterproof resin to make these fabulous Italian Earrings."

It's easy to enter! Go to ClevelandHandmade.com and pick your favorite item from ErikaOriginals shop and another favorite from a ClevelandTeam member. Contest ends Feb. 3rd. See ClevelandHandmade.com for details.

I Love You to Pieces!

2010-01-25T08:34:00.005-05:00

I don't know where that funny saying came from, but I LOVE LOVE LOVE this heart necklace by smashing! This necklace is made-to-order, so if you want one, you had better hurry!

smashing says... "this heart is enameled with vitreous glass enamel, purposely underfired for a super cool texture and "toasted" around the edges for an almost antiqued look." Fan-tastic!

Poppytalk

2010-01-21T07:21:00.003-05:00

I've been nominated for The Poppies, a prestigious award from Poppytalk blog. This Handmade Crafter category includes Embroidery/Crochet/Knitting/Quilting Artists, Designers, or Shop. Thanks for voting! (Voting ends at noon on Tuesday, Jan. 26th.)

Mmmm Rolls

2010-01-20T06:05:00.003-05:00

I love to let bread rise on a warm windowsill, but the sun hasn't been out much these days. I do have a warm mantel near the wood stove that works perfectly.

Make an easy batch of rolls. Shape them however you'd like. My old Better Homes and Gardens "Complete Step-By-Step Cookbook" is a classic and it shows 9 different ways to shape them, including Fantans, Parker House Rolls, Bow Knots and Rosettes. I made mine Shortcut Cloverleaves. Just snip an X on the top, then let them rise.

DINNER ROLLS
3 1/2 cups flour, 1 package dry yeast, 1 1/4 cups milk, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/4 cup shortening or butter, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 egg

Mix together 2 cups of the flour and the yeast. In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together the milk, sugar, shortening or butter, and salt. Heat until warm and melted. (Let cool if it's too hot. You want it warm for the yeast.) Add to flour mixture and add the egg. Mix on low speed for a minute then at high speed for 3 minutes. Stir in as much of the remaining flour to make a moderately stiff dough. (until it's not too sticky) Knead with the dough hook on your mixer until it is smooth and elastic. (approximately 5 minutes)
Place the ball of dough in a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap or waxed paper that's been sprayed with cooking spray. Let rise in a warm (not hot) place until double (45 - 60 minutes). Punch down and divide in half. Cover and let rest 10 minutes.
Cut each half into 12 pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, pulling the edges under to form a smooth top.
I sprayed muffin tins with cooking spray. Placed the dough smooth side up, and cut the tops. You can bake them plain, or bake them in a round cake pan. Or check out some other shapes and options.
Bake in a preheated 400° oven for 10 - 12 minutes. Cool in pan for a few minutes, then move to a rack. Makes 24 rolls.

Looking Back at Vanna's Choice

2010-01-12T08:20:00.009-05:00

I remember when Vanna's Choice yarn was first introduced by Lion Brand Yarn. All those pretty colors were so inspiring for many projects. I'm getting ready to enter the Vanna's Choice Contest. I haven't started on the new project yet, but I sorted through the Vanna stash and found possible yarns to use. Since you can enter as many items as you wish, I took time to look through past designs in search of Vanna's Choice yarn. I made a "Powerpuff" series of hats. The Bubbles Cloche was blue and made out of a different yarn, but Buttercup was green with a buttercup flower. Blossom was a burnt orange with a flower. There are a few other hats, fingerless gloves, and shrugs as well. I put them together here in a collage. When I finish my newest, I'll be sure to show you!
Here's a great design in Vanna's Choice from fellow CreateCrochet team member CrocheTrend.

And look at this sweet hoodie from BallofYarnToo

For more Fiber goodness, stop by Alpaca Farm Girl for Fiber Arts Friday. (Check out the Winter Alpaca Peeps pic!)

Slipper Story

2010-01-07T08:01:00.003-05:00

My son asked if I would make him a pair of slippers. He said he couldn't find the ones that he used to have. I said, well, you're 15 now and I made those for you when you were 7. So, I made him a pair of slippers for Christmas. I didn't finish the second one until a few days after, but he didn't mind. When I presented them to him he had a sad look on his face and said that they're not the same! I felt so bad and asked "what do you mean?" and he said "the other ones had little dots on the bottom". Oh, I remembered then that I used glow-in-the-dark fabric paint to make non-skid dots on the bottom of them. I laughed and, luckily, still had some paint. He loves his pocket watch best.

Christmas Cookies

2009-12-20T06:31:00.002-05:00

These are a favorite cookie that I blogged about a year ago and are shown above from Valentine's Day.

Nonie Cookies Revisited

I thought I'd share with you my family's favorite cookie recipe. This was my great-grandmother Eleanor's recipe for sugar cookies. They've since come to be called "Nonie Cookies" since she was "Grandma Nonie." It is a classic cookie recipe, enjoyed all year long. I like them a little thick, while my Mom likes them thin and crispy. See what you think.

NONIE COOKIES

Mix together 3 1/2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar and a dash of freshly ground nutmeg. Make a well in the center and add 1 cup shortening, 1 egg, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Mix well.

Roll half the dough on a floured cloth or board. Sprinkle with sugar and roll it in gently. Cut with your favorite cookie cutters. Bake at 350° until lightly brown. Roll and cut remaining dough. You can use colored sugars if desired.

Cocoa Drops with Browned Butter Icing

2009-12-19T07:05:00.004-05:00

My nut roll turned out very nice. I probably should have baked two at a time instead of crowding them all onto one sheet, but it is delicious! I made the gingerbread, but haven't decorated it yet. It is quite tasty, especially with the fresh lemon and orange juice and zests!
I also made Cocoa Drops, which are a family favorite. They are frosted with Browned Butter Icing and it really makes it a stand-out, or outstanding cookie! This is a big batch. Feel free to make a 1/2 batch.

COCOA DROPS

Mix together 2 cups Crisco shortening and 1 1/2 cups sugar and beat well. Add 4 eggs and mix well and add 2 teaspoons vanilla. Add 3 cups flour, 1 1/2 cups cocoa powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix well. I use a small cookie scoop, but you can drop by tablespoonful onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 375° for 12 - 15 minutes. Frost when cool.
BROWNED BUTTER ICING
Brown 1/4 cup butter, add 2 cups powdered sugar and enough milk to make the right consistency. (Make sure to really brown the butter. You want that toasted flavor, but not burned.)

Oh Nuts!

2009-12-18T08:27:00.004-05:00

The Nut Roll dough is rising and the filling is made. I followed this gingerbread recipe and the wet ingredients are cooling. Oh my it smells so good with lemon, orange and spices! Watch this short video to see how fantastic this gingerbread looks.
http://www.hulu.com/watch/104296/food-network-originals-gingerbread-cookies
Now that I'm waiting, I think I'll bake some mini loaves of Aunt John's Nut Bread. Yes, her name was Lucille, but everyone called her John. I miss my Grandma. She used to whip up a loaf of nut bread in no time. I think I was about 11 or 12 when I wrote this card.
Note...there's no butter or shortening in this recipe. I have called my Mom several times to make sure I wrote it down correctly. It is simple and tasty.
More no-nuts recipes in the coming days!

White Christmas

2009-12-16T06:35:00.005-05:00

Oh the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful. Since we've no place to go.... Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!!!

Looks like we're going to have a White Christmas this year! I was just looking at some pictures from last year and remembering that we had no snow. Next week's forecast is promising!

There's still time to order some last minute gifts to snuggle up in...

Rugelach and Nut Roll Cookies

2009-12-13T06:29:00.005-05:00

These are Ina's Rugelach from Food Network's 12 Days of Cookies newsletter. Rugelach have cream cheese in the dough, and a fruity filling.
My father-in-law gave me this recipe for Nut Rolls. It's a yeast-based dough that you roll out small balls, fill and roll individual cookies in sugar. (Make the dough the night before!)

NUT ROLLS

1/2 # melted butter
3 eggs, beaten
1/2 can evaporated milk
1 package dry yeast
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 - 5 cups flour

Mix dough and put it in a greased, covered bowl. Refrigerate for 12 hours.

Filling: 1 cup ground nuts, 1 1/2 Tablespoons butter, 1/8 cup water, 1/6 cup dark Karo syrup, 1/2 cup hot milk. Stir and cook filling to boiling point. Add one beaten egg and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Cook until thick, stirring constantly. Cool to room temperature.

Take a small ball of dough the size of a walnut. Roll thin in granulated sugar. Fill, roll and shape into a crescent. Bake at 350° 20 minutes...more or less.

Tasty Cookie Mishap

2009-12-13T06:08:00.002-05:00

I wanted to make a shortbread style cookie with a chocolate disc on top...kind of like the Peanut Butter Kisses, but I didn't want peanut butter and all I had were the chocolate discs.

I found a recipe that used Hershey's Hugs and you made half the dough chocolate and half white. I just left it all white and thought it would work. Well, as you can see, it didn't.
The cookies spread too much. They taste good, but it's like a sugar cookie with a chocolate center.
I'll try again, but definitely need a shortbread recipe.
Happy baking!

I'll Never Buy A Nut Roll Again

2009-12-10T07:13:00.004-05:00

I made a terrible mistake the other day and actually bought a nut roll at the grocery store! It was so tempting since I've been way too busy and nut roll is one of my favorite things at the holidays.
I am digging out my nut roll recipe to share with you since I vow to NEVER buy one again. The hollow, dry, flavorless dough is not worth the price. Yes, it takes awhile to make these, but you'll have extra for yourself, or to give as a gift. They freeze well...if you don't eat it all!

I haven't researched the history of the nut roll. I do know that it's an Eastern European recipe that is sometimes filled with a fruit spread or poppy seed instead of a nut filling. It's sometimes called Kolachi or Potica and comes from Poland, Croatia, Serbia, and Slovak recipes.
Take time to make these yourself. You won't regret it!

NUT ROLL
Makes 4 loaves

2 packages dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup Crisco shortening
2 cups warm milk
1 cup sugar
2 teaspoons salt
4 egg yolks
8 cups all-purpose flour

Dissolve the yeast in the warm (not hot) water. In a large bowl mix the flour, butter, shortening, salt and sugar. Add the milk, egg yolks and dissolved yeast. Mix well and knead about 5 minutes, until it's smooth and elastic and doesn't stick (adding more flour if necessary). Place in a greased bowl and cover with waxed paper or plastic wrap that's been sprayed with cooking spray. Let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 2 - 3 hours).
Make the filling...
2# ground walnuts
2 cups sugar
12 oz. evaporated milk
2 teaspoons vanilla
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 cup butter
4 beaten egg whites to stretch the filling, if desired

I like to bake these on parchment paper, but I still spray a little bit of cooking spray on the paper. After the dough has risen, divide it into 4 pieces. Roll each piece to 1/8 to 1/4" thick. Spread with cooled filling. (Some recipes spread melted butter first, then the filling. Others spread the filling and drizzle with honey and/or cinnamon.) Roll it up like a jelly roll and place seam-side down on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely with a light towel and let them rise for 1 hour.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350° for about 30 - 40 minutes, depending on your oven. Cool completely on a cooling rack.

*** "Hungarian Nut Rolls" are a little different. They're more of a roll and fill cookie and I'll share that recipe with you next.***

The Illustrious Yule Log

2009-12-04T06:07:00.007-05:00

The holiday baking season, along with the release of "Julie and Julia", reminds me of watching Julia Child and wishing I could make the illustrious Buche de Noel or Yule Log. I can still hear Julia saying "Buche de Noel!" My childhood love of HoHo's had me longing for this rolled chocolate spongecake with chocolate ganache. Yum!
Last year I finally decided to try it. I don't have any Julia Child cookbooks, but I did have a hand-written recipe card in my recipe box for many years. When I was in my teens, I wrote down a lot of recipes from my Mom's recipe box, but I never knew her to make Buche de Noel. So, who knows where this recipe came from.Well, it ended up being a total flop! I was interrupted too many times with people and dogs and who knows what. The cake was over-mixed and was a rubbery mess, despite the long time it took to make the filling and frosting and assemble it.
I won't be trusting that old recipe card, if I even kept it! There are several online sources for Buche de Noel (or Yule Log) recipes. Some trustworthy, tested sites are the JoyofBaking, Food Network, Epicurious, and, of course Martha Stewart. I'm not sure yet which I'll try, but will take a look at the different styles, techniques, and ingredients to see what suits my tastes.
I am not a gourmet chef, but I do love to bake. Some tips for a sponge cake like this are, get yourself a jelly roll pan, don't use it for anything other than sponge cakes, and don't use waxed paper. Some recipes call for using waxed paper on the pan and I just can't get that smell of melted wax out of my head. While I use parchment paper for most other baking, I opt for aluminum foil for a sponge cake. It forms to the pan. You can grease and flour it easily and the cake comes off clean.
I hope this inspires you to make a Yule Log or Buche de Noel this year. Heck, I may even try the little marzipan mushrooms! Just keep in mind that looks don't matter as must as taste.

DATE NUT CAKE

2009-12-01T07:37:00.008-05:00

There's no time to bake this week, but I wanted to share some recipes to start off the holiday season. I'd also love to hear from you. If you have a family favorite, a traditional seasonal dish or story to tell, feel free to share!
We baked a lot of goodies at Thanksgiving. Sarah and her cousin, Emily, baked two pumpkin pies from one big can of pumpkin. I opened a small can to make a quick pumpkin roll that morning and, not wanting to waste what pumpkin was left, we made a batch of cookies with frosting. Lots of pumpkin, but it was delicious! One tradition that was missing was the date nut cake. My grandmother's German background influenced many family food traditions, this one included. The Amish have a date nut cake recipe that's more pudding-like. This one is a moist cake with a warm sauce. I didn't make date nut cake this Thanksgiving, but it was traditionally served at both Thanksgiving and Christmas for as long as I can remember.

DATE NUT CAKE

Put 1 cup of chopped dates in a bowl. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of baking soda and add 1 cup of hot water. Let stand.
Cream together 1 tablespoon of butter, 1 cup sugar, and 1 egg. Mix together 1 1/2 cups flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Alternate adding the flour and date mixtures to the creamed butter and mix well. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla and 1 cup chopped walnuts.
Bake at 350° in a greased and floured tube or bundt pan until it's done (time will vary depending on the pan size).
Cool completely.

SAUCE FOR DATE NUT CAKE

In a small saucepan, bring to a boil 1 cup hot water and 3/4 cup brown sugar. Mix a cornstarch paste with a little cornstarch and water. Add to boiling pan and stir until thickened. (Don't make it too thick.) Add 1 tablespoon butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla.
Serve warm over date nut cake.

Stay tuned for more holiday recipes and food traditions and be sure to send me yours!

A Colorful Rush

2009-11-29T08:55:00.005-05:00

I was thrilled to see snow on my way to the show Friday morning! I love snow and knew it wasn't enough to make the roads bad, but just enough to make people happy.
I had a great show at the Creative Gallery in Hudson. I need to fix my display a bit before my last show next Saturday. My crooked sign and crooked rack reminds me of a limerick. (You can see Chronology clocks in the background! We had a lot of fun with lillyella too. Click to see their pretty shops.)I'm making a mad dash to finish some custom glove and hood orders. I want to felt a few pieces today to get that out of the way. The dark plum will be a cloche and I'll make a button clutch in red. I haven't decided yet, what color hats to make, but I got these gorgeous flowers from TrulyRuby. Some are clips so they could be interchangeable with several colors of hats and/or headband ear warmers. The ideas are racing. It promises to be a colorful rush to the end of this holiday season!If you're near Cleveland, please stop by and meet some creative people from Cleveland Handmade. We'll be at the Wooltex Gallery on Saturday, December 5th from 10 to 6.

Featured EtsyBlogger for November...

2009-11-25T09:18:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to Becky, of The Fab Miss B! I've chosen a few Thanksgiving-themed items that I would love to have from her shop. You can find unique vintage aprons and knick-knacks at thefabmissb.Etsy.com as well as ornaments, prints, cards, and original artwork at beckykazana.Etsy.com.

I have an apron collection, most of which were my grandmothers. I love the colors of this one...

And, wouldn't this make a fabulous addition to the Thanksgiving table? So pretty!

The EtsyBloggers Team is having a holiday sale this weekend! Check out the list of participating shops at Etsybloggers.Etsy.com.

Warm Woolen Mittens

2009-11-20T13:04:00.005-05:00

I just LOVE the way that Cascade Eco Wool felts. My husband has had a pair of Dachstein mitts for 30 years. They were popular among mountain-climbing outdoor adventurists, but they don't make them anymore. (I couldn't find them anyway.)
I had some wool leftover from making the hooded capelet below and thought I'd try to felt a pair of mittens. Felting (or fulling) can be quite challenging. You don't want to waste precious wool if you misjudge how much your project will shrink during felting. So, I took my time, felted a swatch and then one mitten. It turned out perfectly, if I do say so myself! Today, I felted the second mitten, along with a hat and matching pair of mittens in a mauve color. The trick to mittens is to check them often and to keep the thumb open. If you just let it go until it looks the right size, the thumb will felt together.
Mittens make a great gift. I especially like to wear mittens when skiing. So, when it's really cold, skip the gloves and wear your wool mittens!

Check out the Fiber Arts Friday post at http://www.alpacafarmgirl.com/

It's That Time of Year

2009-11-18T10:03:00.003-05:00

It's that time of year again. The time when all my crafty friends are so so busy. I have to take time to stop and enjoy the season, before it's too late! Christmas comes and goes so quickly. The EtsyBloggers are already discussing which holiday movies are their favorites...and it's not yet Thanksgiving!
A favorite Thanksgiving tradition in our family has always been to watch the parade. It was my grandfather's favorite thing to do on Thanksgiving and he didn't want to miss a beat. The bands were always his favorite, and, the bigger the better! Check out this fun link to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and be sure to click on "Parade History" for a trip down memory lane (or 42nd Street) with "76 Trombones"!
http://social.macys.com/parade2009/

My favorite holiday movie is "A Charlie Brown Christmas." Yes, even at my age, it is a must-see. We look forward to it every year. My kids didn't get it at first. They were like, Mom, we've seen it over and over. Now...they get it. They share in my excitement whenever it's on.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
-Luke 2:8-14

Win a pair of Fingerless Gloves from me, LazyT!!

2009-11-13T05:04:00.004-05:00

It's my turn for the Cleveland Handmade giveaway! Every week, one of our artists from the ClevelandTeam on Etsy is donating an item for the team giveaway. I'm donating a custom pair of fingerless gloves or arm warmers to one lucky winner. Just in time for gift-giving. You pick the color and style. It's easy to enter! (U.S. only, sorry. See complete rules for details.) Be sure to stop by for more from Cleveland Handmade. If you'd like to order a pair for yourself, or as a gift, please contact me through my Etsy shop at www.Etsy.com/shop/LazyTcrochet. Thanks!

Enter to win by Wednesday, Nov. 18th Noon EST....
www.ClevelandHandmade.com

Holiday Vintage Finds

2009-11-11T07:58:00.002-05:00

Whether you shop eBay or Etsy or your local thrift or resale shops, now is a great time to pick up some vintage Christmas goodies! I stumbled upon a new resale shop in my hometown yesterday. It's been there since June. Can you tell that I don't get out much? LOL
Here's a sample of some of the goodies I found. And I only spent $2.00!

What's New...'tis the Season!

2009-11-05T10:25:00.007-05:00

'Tis the season for gift-giving. I've been busy creating custom designs on Etsy, as well as preparing for the many local shows that I've signed up for.
Custom orders are great, but it can be tricky scheduling time between shows to finish items on time. My tip would be to not take on more than you can handle. You still need to have time for yourself (and to finish all those handmade gifts that you've been planning to make)!Here's a recent design I made for a client. She wanted something to wear to Dicken's Fair. Apparently there are a lot of different Dicken's Festivals around the world. They take their attire very seriously! Here's the capelet I made, plus a matching pair of arm warmers (although they probably aren't true "period" attire). I thought it was a nice Victorian-style cape.
In keeping with the theme, I have plans to make more Victorian-inspired capes, hats, and a muff or hand-warmer. Something wooly and warm.

Staying true to my funky side, I have these new designs as well. Busy busy busy!

(See more Fiber Friday posts at http://www.alpacafarmgirl.com.

...and Everything Nice

2009-11-03T05:53:00.004-05:00

Repost from July, but I wanted to share this recipe with you again.
These are my favorite cookies from my Grandmother's recipe box!

SUGAR AND SPICE COOKIES

Cream together 3/4 cup Crisco shortening and 1 cup sugar. Add 1 egg and mix well. Add 1/4 cup molasses. Mix together then add to egg mixture: 2 cups flour, 2 teaspoons baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger. Mix well and chill dough for at least 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Form dough into balls and place on baking sheet. Dip the bottom of a flat glass in sugar then gently press the cookie to flatten slightly. (Double dip for a little extra sugar.) Bake for approximately 12 minutes or until brown on the edges.

Having a cookie exchange this season? Visit my friend's blog and see these sweet invites!
http://www.boulieblog.com/2009/10/c-is-for.html

I've decided to post lots of cookie recipes this holiday! I plan to include some other family favorite feasts as well. Stay tuned! Looking for a recipe? I'm a recipe hound. Have a favorite you'd like to share? I'd love to hear about it.

Autumn Images

2009-10-28T12:21:00.002-04:00

Spooky

2009-10-19T05:19:00.000-04:00

Fabulous Felted Headband

2009-10-16T09:21:00.002-04:00

Cleveland Handmade is hosting a giveaway to thank all our wonderful supporters and customers, as well as give you the opportunity to check out the high-quality handmade art in member shops. We’re giving you the chance to win this Carmen headband in red generously donated by Cleveland Handmade member la petite libellule.

Visit ClevelandHandmade.com to enter. Check out the rules HERE. It's easy to enter! (Currently open to U.S. residents only.) Enter by Wednesday, October 21st at noon (EST).

October's Featured EtsyBlogger is....

2009-10-15T07:05:00.004-04:00

MadeByMelissa!
And, in keeping with the spirit, I thought I'd show a few of the Halloween-themed items from her shop. I love this star-shaped baby blanket, and to make it in orange and black is just perfect for Halloween! How creative!
There are earrings and necklaces and some great vintage finds. And there are some fun amigurumi toys in her shop, like this sneaky snake named Gary!
Congratulations to MadeByMelissa for being the EtsyBloggers Team Featured Blogger for October! Stop by her shop at www.MadeByMelissa.Etsy.com and be sure to visit her blog at http://madebymelissa.blogspot.com/.

The Spirit Continues...

2009-10-10T16:46:00.007-04:00

I mentioned my brother's art work in my previous post. He sent me some pictures from the many pieces that adorn his walls. Mixed with the monster collection, horror movie posters, Pabst Blue Ribbon and rock 'n roll ephemera and the hundreds of guitars, lie drawings, paintings and ceramic pieces like these. I picked my favorites to show you here. Chris is also designing and building handmade guitars in his spare time.

In the Spirit of Things

2009-10-09T07:02:00.008-04:00

I've been so busy making things for the many shows that I have planned that I haven't taken time to decorate for Fall or for Halloween. Today, I am setting aside some time to clean and put up a few fun things to spook the kids and kick off the spirit of Halloween.
My favorite Halloween decorations are the black lights that I hang in the window and the vintage jack-O-lantern that is missing the clip-on light, but I put it over a basic candle lamp. There's something about things that glow that make this time of year special. For me, it's kind of a transition as the evenings get darker and calls for candles at Thanksgiving and twinkle lights at Christmas.I also love these two handmade pieces from my brother, Chris. I'm always encouraging him to create more. His love of guitars has taken over the creative side of his brain lately though. He has always been a big fan of Halloween and has a huge monster collection. He painted this fun sign on a piece of slab wood. This skeleton is a sample of the many skulls and Frankenstein masks that he's created over the years. There are so many gorgeous pieces on his walls and I really think that he should open a museum! (Perhaps we should collaborate and create a book of monster art or something.)I am also mesmerized by the art of Jack & Cat Curio. Something about Frankenstein in art always grabs my attention, but when I saw the beeeswax dripping from this Halloween collage, I had to ask them about it.
I asked Jack & Cat Curio to tell me a bit about themselves...
"We are a couple that love to stay up late creating mixed media pieces. We specialize in encaustic/beeswax collage. We compile different imagery and ephemera and then put it all under several layers of beeswax. Sometimes we use colored wax to achieve a certain look, other times a heat dye. Sometimes we stamp, imprint, and graph the wax.
We also specialize in digital imagery,trinkets and do-dads. Lesley also creates confectionery goods when not crafting with beeswax. We also travel and teach several workshops and classes on these topics."
I did look up "encaustic" and read that it was a technique using hot wax with pigments and that it was first used in Greek ship building to seal cracks in the ships and evolved into an art form from there.
You can visit JackandCatCurio.Etsy.com to see more of their beeswax collages, altered art, mixed media, and prints. I encourage you to visit their blog as well at http://JackandCatCurio.Blogspot.com. I've thoroughly enjoyed listening to their "Art Makin' Blues" playlist while writing this. I may just keep it playing and dance around as I decorate this morning! And, if you're in the Phoenix area, check out the class schedule as posted on their blog.
(Special thanks to Mike and Lesley from JackandCatCurios.Etsy.com!)

Harvest Time

2009-10-07T18:14:00.003-04:00

I'm so happy to be a part of this beautiful Halloween treasury from zJayne!

More Halloween to come!

We've Got the Blues - A Cleveland Handmade Treasury

2009-09-29T07:19:00.002-04:00

Gorgeous sapphire, turquoise, sky blues from Cleveland Handmade!

So Refreshing!

2009-09-25T12:50:00.002-04:00

I was awakened to the fresh scent of lemon....and something else too. Oh yes, it was a wonderful lavender-fresh scent. It took me a moment to realize that it was very early in the morning and my husband was in the shower. The fabulous aroma was coming from the fresh, organic Lemon Chamomile soap from Mirasol Farm. They were so kind as to offer a sample since I blogged about their organic soaps the other day. I must admit that I probably wouldn't have chosen lemon if I had ordered, but WOW...I love it. I'm more familiar with lavender and that is the first scent I recognized when the package arrived. It is wonderfully smooth and works up a nice lather, but the aroma is just fabulous! What a wonderful way to start the day!

Yarn, Yarn, Everywhere Yarn...

2009-09-24T06:48:00.004-04:00

"Blockin' out the scenery, breakin' my mind!"

To blog about my workspace is laughable since I can pretty much work anywhere and take yarn with me everywhere I go! I do a lot of work at my desk, which is actually the family computer table. I often have piles of yarn, needle and thread, and buttons galore, mixed with bills, checkbook, gaming microphones and tangled headphones! (I was going to ask Martha Stewart for a suggestion on how to organize all these cords since everyone has their own favorite headphones or earbuds. What a tangled mess sometimes!)

When I saw that Lion Brand Yarn had desktop wallpaper, I knew that would be perfect for me. The gorgeous pile of colors and textures looks like my desk anyway, so I thought I would add it.
Check out the fun screensavers and wallpapers available at Lion Brand here. And, while you're there, look at this beautiful Nature's Bounty Afghan in Tunisian crochet. One of these days I'd like to take the time to make this. It's just gorgeous. They also offer free knit or crochet e-cards and printable cards for prayer shawls as well.

A Walk in the Woods

2009-09-22T08:49:00.004-04:00

I thought I'd share a treasury with you. I created this one, based on a forest theme. It expires Thursday, so click HERE if you'd like to click and comment.
Also, I'd love to show you some pictures I took at Nelson Ledges State Park. You can find them HERE at my Flickr account.

For the love of birds!

2009-09-19T08:23:00.004-04:00

Designs by Vanessa is September's Featured EtsyBlogger. She claims to be a "girlie girl" who loves birds. Even her profile says "Welcome Every Birdie!" Vanessa lives in Arizona, loves crafting, photography, retail therapy, and fashion as well.
Visit her Etsy shop at designsbyvanessa.Etsy.com and you can find sweet birdie jewelry and cards. She also has a lovely blog at designsbyvanessa.blogspot.com.

Autumn Organic

2009-09-16T09:49:00.005-04:00

A few organic finds to complement the chill in the air and the changing colors of Fall.

Pretty Birdie's Hemp and Organic Cotton Muslin Snap Jacket from stephanieteague.Etsy.com
I love the snappy style of this jacket...(and check out that chunky retro crocheted bag too!)

Organic Bird Seed Favors from 2birdsinlove.Etsy.com
Fun favors for a Fall themed event, made with locally-grown organic bird seed and complete with custom graphic-designed tags.

Bulk Organic Soap - 3 Bars from mirasolfarm.Etsy.com
I love the color combination of these soaps. They're hand-cut and made from scratch from organic oils.

Hey There Little Red Riding Hood

2009-09-13T20:49:00.003-04:00

Well, I finished it! The little red capelet I talked about before. I would like to make a longer one some time, but they didn't have enough of the same dye lot of this red. The color is called "Red Ochre." I had to Google that to see for sure what "ochre" was. It's a pigment derived from naturally tinted clay that contains mineral oxides.
Anyway....I think it's fairy tale sweet! I chose not to display it on the blue lady, like I did the brown one. I am looking forward to meeting some volunteers from Hiram College in a couple of weeks. Perhaps someone would be willing to model for a trade. (Wishing my niece, Linnea, could model again, but she's in school in Norway!)
On to the next project and organizing for the Pumpkin Festival!

Sweet!

2009-09-08T06:56:00.002-04:00

Thanks so much to AlessiaChic for including my hat in this Sweet treasury! I really don't like modeling my own designs, but am happy that this picture isn't too bad. I hope to find some local college students that wouldn't mind modeling in trade for a hat or scarf!

The Pittsburgh show was so much fun. I met several Etsy artists that I had only known by their avatars or usernames. It was great to attend a show that, not only did people recognize "Etsy" but most vendors had an Etsy shop, and a lot of the buyers already had established accounts and were eager to add me to their favorites! I bought some gorgeous handspun yarn from dangerbee.Etsy.com! I look forward to seeing more in her shop soon.

Thanks, also, to everyone who commented on my hoodie post below. I definitely will be taking your thoughts into consideration and truly appreciate your taking the time to comment.

Fairy Tale Chic

2009-09-03T05:43:00.004-04:00

Once upon a time, there was a pretty brown hooded capelet.... Huh? Well, have you ever designed something so fun that you really wished that you could keep it? I loved how this hood turned out, but the capelet was just a bit too dainty for my taste. I was thrilled to see that it sold, even though I was hoping to display it at a show this Saturday. I was intending to make another one in red, although I won't have time to finish it by Saturday.
I'd love your opinion. I know a red hood would be fairy tale chic and I bought some of this same luscious yarn in scarlet, but I don't know whether to keep the capelet style, or to try something else with it. I have some hooded scarves to display this weekend, but this style of hood is sleek and, to just dangle a scarf from it seems too simple. I know I have enough of the red to repeat this design, but if I were to make more of a cape, I would need more yarn.
I also keep seeing hints of the "Alice In Wonderland" movie that's coming out soon and have a Queen of Hearts design in mind. I'm looking forward to playing with that idea next week...after the show!
Let me know what you think. Thanks!

Beginning of the End

2009-09-01T07:11:00.005-04:00

It's the first day of school here in Ohio....and it's a brisk 39° F out there! I'll have to head out to the garden to pick some more tomatoes (when it warms up some). As Summer comes to an end, now is the time to harvest and process the vegetable bounty. I'm still waiting for my peppers to ripen. The plants are full of huge, sweet bell peppers, but they're not golden yellow yet like they're supposed to be.

I made some pizza sauce and will be cooking down more tomatoes as they ripen as well. I used some fresh in a batch of chili last night, but I like to make spaghetti sauce to have throughout the winter. It's time to pick and dry some herbs, like basil and oregano, and harvest some catnip for kitty toys. This is also a great time to plant more lettuces and spinach since they grow best in the cooler temperatures, but before the freeze. So, take time to enjoy the bounty from your own garden or visit your local farmer's market. And, if you're so inclined, "put-up" some jars to enjoy throughout the year. You'll be glad you did.

Featured EtsyBlogger for August...

2009-08-30T07:35:00.003-04:00

Memories for Life Scrapbooks! memoriesforlifesb.Etsy.com

Edi is always making something new. You can tell that she really loves it! The EtsyBloggers Street Team has always been a close-knit group, but Edi really surprises me sometimes with her kind comments and vibrant personality. I'm so glad to have become friends with her - and her enthusiasm is contagious!

In her Etsy shop you can find all sorts of fun scrapbooks, photo albums, notebooks, and more! You'll have to stop by often to see what's new. She also does custom word albums and can make a custom scrapbook for any occasion. Some of my favorites include this Family Favorites Recipe Book...

Summer Vacation Scrapbook Photo Album...

Be sure to stop by memoriesforlifesb.Etsy.com to see what she's up to next!