Art, Like Bread

#Crochet My #Heart Pattern Round Up

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

It's been a while. Still love you.

Sorry I've been so quiet on the blog writing front, but I've been plenty active on Pinterest, Twitter, and Ravelry. Pinterest is just the bomb, y'all. If you need an invite, just send me your email address. I'll try to send you one. If you're wondering what Pinterest is, you should check out this great post at Lion Brand about it. :)

To give you an update on where I've been, well, I've been

No, I'm not a bus driver.

- working at my day job! :)

- designing for a prestigious upcoming publication

- starting a crochet class after school at my job

- crafting with my awesome craft group

David is working on a knitted trim.

Life is good, my friends.

At my after school class, we started with a simple headband by Creative Yarn. The students are very invested and we've had a lot of fun. Our next project will be a crocheted heart, which led me to this round-up. Just a dozen lovely hearts from all over the internet. :)

Teeny Tiny Hearts Pattern on Attic 24

Sweetheart Valentine Heart on Crochet Spot

For A Special Valentine Bookmark on Anzouya

Sweet Heart Crochet Pattern on Bella Dia

American Folk-Art Style Heart Motif by Cocoa Cream Crochet

How to Crochet A Heart on Little Birdie Secrets

Molly's Crochet Heart Garland on Design*Sponge

Decorative Hearts Crochet Pattern on Red Heart

Mini Hearts by Crochet Today

(I did a blog post with my mods for the above pattern.)

Granny Heart Bunting on Cherry Heart

I couldn't end this round up without a link to two of my favorite heart patterns. Although they are not free, check them out. Sarah London runs a sale of 10 patterns for $10, so you can get the patterns and discover other great ones for a very affordable price.

Sarah London

How to Loom Knit Fingerless Gloves

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 19:58:00 +0000

It's exciting that Fantasias Miguel, the Michael's of Mexico, has started to carry yarn &; yarn crafting items. Right now they have pretty much all novelty yarn, and honestly, none of it is anything I'd like to work with. However, I do find their instructional videos just that- instructional. I'm very interested in loom knitting. I don't know why. It's just cool. I have also been discovering other kinds of cool yarn crafting here in Mexico as well. As I learn them, I'll pass them on to you. :)

Ignore the yarn choice, and just focus on the technique in this video. And hey, if novelty yarn floats your boat, then you'll be in heaven with this video! :)

Clever #Crochet to Be Worn Many Ways

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Just another stroke of Genius from the Double Stitch Twins.

Slinky Sleeves #Knit Arm Warmers from Vogue Knitting

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 19:39:00 +0000

One of the members of my knitting group found an amazing store called Fil, which is in Colonia Roma, Mexico City, D.F. I was glad to have found a Mexican yarn store dedicated to mostly natural fibers from Mexico and Latin America. I may dedicate an entire post to the store later, but right now I wanted to share a finished object made from beautiful yarn I found there.

The Yarn: Lanai by TM Imports. It's 100% wool and to my eye it looks like an aran to bulky weight yarn. It's a beautiful, variegated, single ply yarn with long color repeats between raspberry, wine, light denim, and olive. I found the yarn to be beautiful to work with and it produced a very pleasing product.

The Pattern: #21 Arm Warmers by Twinkle. Published in the 2011 Holiday Collector's Issue of Vogue Knitting. (In case you are wondering, I haven't gotten tired of Vogue Knitting yet. I hear they are coming out with a crochet issue soon! Be still, my heart!) The pattern is considered to be intermediate difficulty, but I didn't find it to be hard at all and I am DEFINITELY NOT an intermediate knitter. I think the thumb hole is the reason that it rates so high. But that's only 2 difficult stitches in each piece. Not too bad!

Needles: Cheapo plastic 8mm knitting needles purchased from Telas Parisina. Totally affordable and perfect for this project. They are kind of long needles, though.

Time: About a week. All told, this project could be completed in an evening. I was going pretty slowly and I couldn't knit this in the car.

Tips: I wrote out the pattern repeats on a scrap paper and crossed off each row as I went along. This allowed me to stay on track with the lace pattern, increases, and decreases.

Check out my Ravelry page for Slinky Sleeves. :)

Haiku #Poem by Basho

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 13:53:00 +0000

source: yankeeexposure.blogspot.com

Come out to view

the truth of flowers blooming

in poverty

Short Break

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 18:03:00 +0000

Lots going on over here at school. I´m a teacher by day, you know. :)
I hope everyone had a fabulous Thanksgiving.
Still crafting, still reading blogs, still designing, still trying to podcast.
If you miss me, click on the tabs above to see what I´m looking at and what I´m making.

via Spotted Sparrow

I hope you´ll bear with me until I catch up.
I think I should be back before Christmas. :)
Miss you, but teaching is my priority.

What My (Famous) Stitching Group Made

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

I love sharing photos of the work of my wonderful stitching group! I adore all of them. Each one of us has a different forte when it comes to yarn crafting, so we love getting together and sharing what we do.

By the way, we are famous, as we were recently mentioned in the Holiday Collector's Issue of Vogue Knitting. :) (Yes, still excited!)

Dvora is teaching her friend to knit.
Hooray for new crafters!

I cast on some broomstick lace.

You can check on my progress on the "Il Pleut" Ravelry Project Page.

Are you impressed yet? Yes, that is about 8 active needles you see there.

David makes the most complex projects on the tiniest needles. He makes the most beautiful knit amigurumi and is fascinated by crafts of all kinds.

And he taught himself tatting. I know. Totally cool. (These are tatting shuttles, by the way.)

Jimena's fine handiwork has resulted in a beautiful sweater.

Angeles is a whiz at free-form crochet.

I love my crafting friends!!

And the Winners Are...

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0000

I am extremely pleased to announce the winners of my Mark Montano's Big-Ass Book of Crafts 2 giveaway!

They were selected by the Random Number Generator at Random.org.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Karen, who said, "Super nice giveaway. Thanks for the chance to get a really interesting looking book."

and

Rose (Sisterrobinson on Rav), who said, "The book looks marvelous and I would love to learn many of his crafting secrets. Such fun!"

Karen and Sister Robinson, please email your mailing address to artlikebread (at) gmail (dot) com or artlikebread on Ravelry. :D

Thank you all so much for entering. I know you will love the book as much as I do! Those who didn't win can pick up a copy at your local bookstore, and the Kindle Edition is only $9.99.

Thank you to Gallery Books for providing the giveaway prizes.

I Won Sheep(ish) #Yarn from @CathieFilian!

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

I got this in the mail! :D

Well, it's been a long time coming, but I'm happy to finally blog this post! Way back in June I entered a contest on Domestic in the City by Cathie Filian to win some of Vickie Howell's Sheep(ish) yarn.

As you can see, I got the yarn and more! Do you know about Cathie Filian? She's a creative powerhouse and media mogul. She's also the inventor of Hot Glue Gun Helpers, which is a brilliant product produced by Plaid. Christine on Scraptime did a great review of them, and I've been obsessed ever since.

Cathie was kind enough to not only include the promised yarn, but also a sample from the Hot Glue Gun Helpers and a hot glue gun as well! How very sweet and generous.

I've been eyeing the Sheep(ish) yarn but it hasn't found a project quite yet. I'm thinking a child's hat is the way to go. I started a hat, but I frogged (disassembled and recovered the yarn from) it. I tried combining it with a very lively variegated yarn, but it did NOT work. I am finding Sheep(ish) to be lovely to work with!

Enter to #Win the Big-Ass Book of Crafts by @MarkMontano!

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 06:00:00 +0000

Giveaway ends on 11-11-11!

The giveaway has ended. Thank you to all who entered!

Welcome, Vogue Knitting Fans!

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 04:33:00 +0000

Way back in July, an editor at Vogue Knitting contacted me to inquire about the Stitch Group I run here in Mexico City. She wanted to learn about the fiber scene here in Mexico, and I was all too happy to oblige. It was definitely exciting to share the info and yarn connections I'd made over the past few years. Mexico is full of inspiration, and once I found my favorite yarn sources, I wanted everyone to know about them!

Martha's on the cover!!

Of course I hoped she might mention my name in the article (although just helping was exciting in and of itself), and I was elated to see my name and the website mentioned in the article. My friends are mentioned as well. I was even quoted!

An online friend, Nancy Dardarian, who started the Ravelry Group that brought our Stitch Group together, was also quoted in the article, and Rebecca Klassen, who wrote the article, included her photo of naturally-dyed Oaxacan yarns.

There is more to the article, like mentions of some of my favorite D.F. designers and craft events, but I want you all to read it yourselves! It also talks about all different regions of Mexico. I was really impressed with the reporting. Rebecca Klassen wove together a great story that presents an authentic and fair picture of the rich tradition of fiber craft and the modern incarnations of this favorite hobby. I'm very proud to be a part of the fiber scene in Mexico City.

Knitters and yarn-lovers alike should definitely check this issue out. There are plenty of beautiful patterns, ideas, and yarn reviews. It's truly a wonderful publication. I bought a digital copy on the iPod, but you can also order a hard copy on the Vogue Knitting website.

Spotted: Pasta Chic #Earrings by Dolce & Gabbana

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

I saw this little blurb in Life & Style magazine and I had to share it with you. Handmade crafts are very influential.

Image from Life & Style Magazine

How to Turn #Crochet Into #Art - Guest Post by @CrochetBlogger

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 13:59:00 +0000

This is a guest post by Kathryn who blogs about all things crochet at Crochet Concupiscence. Visit her there or on Twitter as @Crochetblogger. If you like what she has to say about crochet art, you can support her on Kickstarter with a small donation to her crochet art project, Swaddle.

I am working on a large-scale crochet art project called Swaddle. As I’ve been telling people about this project, I’ve come to see that there is a huge debate as to when this craft becomes art. It’s certainly a subjective issue but I’ll share my two cents as a crochet artist about how to take your crochet to a level where you can consider it art.

Define crochet art for yourself

The first step is to figure out what art means to you. Some people feel that all crochet is art because it is handcrafted to express the vision of the maker. Others feel that it is not art if they follow a crochet pattern but is art if they create a crochet design themselves. Still others feel that to be art, the crochet piece must be both visually appealing and conceptually interesting. Art is subjective. If you want to feel like a crochet artist, you must first define what crochet art means to you.

Take an idea and expand on it

In my personal opinion, crochet art is most powerful when it has a concept behind it. What is the idea that you are trying to express? It doesn’t have to be a big in-depth concept, although it can be. You might want to express the power of repetition or you might want to explore the domestic history of crochet in your work.

Image property of Kathryn Vercillo

In Swaddle, I am using crochet to explore the idea that the ways in which women tend to communicate affects their relationships with men in both positive and negative ways. There are many smaller concepts within that to explore but that’s the basic idea. By launching my pieces from this big concept, I can create a work of art instead of just a random crochet piece.

Add in some inspiration

Grow your crochet art project by taking your idea and running with it, seeking out various sources of inspiration. Visit an art museum, browse through Ravelry, go for a walk and seek out things that relate to your art idea. Find ways to harness the inspiration, channel it through your idea and produce your crochet art piece.

For example, one of the things that I used for inspiration in Swaddle was to listen to how men talk about the way the women in their lives communicate with them. On the positive end of the spectrum, they use words like “support” and “comfort”. On the negative end of the spectrum, they use words like “nag”. I paid attention to this as a source of inspiration and then asked myself how I could show support and comfort and nagging in my crochet art.

One example of how the inspiration may turn into the finished piece is in my title work, Swaddled. This is a collection of crochet swaddling blankets wrapped around representations of male figures. Some are cozy and comfortable, as we expect crochet blankets to be. Some are strangling and suffocating. Some are too loose and the male is exposed. This represents the core idea behind the title project.

Image property of Kathryn Vercillo

Another example is how I turned nagging into crochet art through my WIP piece 40 variations on a Granny. When I think of nagging, I think of someone saying the same thing over and over and over again. However, the person who is doing the nagging usually says the same thing in ways that they feel are different each time. In this piece, I am constructing granny squares in the same color but using different stitches in each one to show this concept of how nagging appears to both sides.

Own your artistic self

I think it can be really valuable for you to think of your crochet work as art, whether you are making a scarf or a multi-piece crochet art project like Swaddle. The reason for this is that many people dismiss their crochet art work as not important, just a hobby, a little craft when really it’s a form of self-expression. When you own the title of “artist” and call your crochet “art”, it takes on more meaning for yourself as well as for others. You can feel good about yourself devoting your time to your crochet because you are making art. And you can be proud showing it to others, which you should be. So figure out what art means to you and then celebrate it in your crochet work!

Have fun with it!

Ultimately, the best advice I can offer to budding crochet artists is to have fun with whatever you choose to do to make your crochet an expression of yourself. Follow an idea that you feel passionate about, enjoy sourcing the inspiration to grow that idea and honor yourself by taking the time out of your day to crochet.

Image Property of Kathryn Vercillo

A note from Cami - I am honored that Kathryn wrote this post for Art, Like Bread. I love the ideas she shared in today's post and I hope that everyone will consider supporting Swaddle on Kickstarter. I did!

Thank you, Kathryn!

Art to Inspire from MoMA

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0000

I am lucky enough to live not too far from some world-class art and history museums. I don't visit them as often as I should, but I do visit from time to time. The Museo de Arte Moderno (MAM) is my absolute favorite in Mexico City, and that's because I really do love modern art. I always have and always will. I grew up with a Jackson Pollock print in the foyer, a Robert Maplethorpe coffee table book, and a poster of the Guggenheim right outside of my bedroom. I finally visited there once and yep- it looked just like the poster!

One NYC Museum I've visited over and over is, of course, MoMA. I love MoMA. Looking at the works of art there have changed my life. I never once took an art history class, but I've learned my art history in the museum itself.

Van Gogh - Starry Night

So when Screen Dreams contacted me to review 50 Masterworks from the Collection as a holiday gift item, my interest was piqued. I wasn't quite sure how a DVD of art would fit into my life, but I went ahead and gave it a shot. I received two review samples, one DVD and one Blu-Ray disc, which I am allowed to keep. I have to say that I honestly did enjoy viewing the DVD with my mother. (My mom knows so much about art. She identified many of the artists before the titles and descriptions appeared on the screen!)

Dali - Persistance of Time

The quality of the images on the DVD is very high- much higher than what can be viewed on a computer screen. I think the DVD has great educational benefit because it cycles through a selection of works that show exemplary pieces showcasing the styles of artists whose works are housed in the permanent collection at MoMA. It would be great for an art student who wanted to become familiar with different styles.

Rousseau - Sleeping Gypsy

And since my mother runs an adult day care, I gave her the DVD because she can have it on for the seniors to enjoy during their meals. I kept the Blu Ray because sometimes I'll use it when I am grading papers or crafting and listening to music. I think it would also be fun to enjoy this DVD during holiday celebrations. I do wish the collection included more than 50 works, but maybe there's a volume two coming...?

Chagall - Birthday

To find out more about this digital art collection, please click on any of the paintings above or visit Screen Dreams online.

Wordless Wednesday - Day of the Dead #Fabric Haul

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0000


Festive holiday fabrics from Telas Junco in Mexico City

Nationwide #Yarn Crawl Loopy Yarns, #Chicago, IL

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0000

I'm happy to kick off this yarn party with a booming yarn palace- Loopy Yarns of Chicago, IL!

Loopy Yarns is a store that makes an effort to welcome customers and make them feel at home. Located in Chicago's famous downtown "Loop", the store is beautiful, quaint, and inviting.

Loopy Yarns is located in a beautiful red brick building at historic Dearborn Station.

We're here!

After hearing about Loopy Yarns from my online activities (and knowing they host celebrity classes!), I was really excited about visiting this famous yarn store that has everything!

You know I immediately zeroed in on the crocheted samples. Check out this wire dress form!

Pretty! (And check out the little duck to the right. Hi, Duckie!)

I thought this was a neat technique- a felted bowl with synthetic fiber worked in. Great effect.

Mom found a project in the corner.

Every luxury fiber I've heard of was there. In all the pretty colors. Look at all those luscious colors!

Downstairs at Loopy Yarns

In addition to all of the beautiful yarn available upstairs, there is a spacious and comfortable space downstairs boasting a large sale section (yes!), a classroom, a spinning corner, and comfy chairs in which to sit, relax, crochet, knit, and spin. This is pretty close to paradise.

I wonder when Mom will take up spinning. It's so her. She's a textile addict.

I found this Linda Permann sample on a comfy chair downstairs.
I love it when I can identify designs!

So what was the damage?

All told, I did pretty well at Loopy Yarns. I often get overwhelmed in US yarn stores because there is so much to buy but I never have projects in mind, so... I just picked up these few little things.

Yes, those are Addis. And yes, they do rule!

I got a Barbara Walker stitching DVD for free! (Because I bought so much!)


And it all came in this fabulous tote bag, which was free (because I bought so much). They keep in touch, too! I joined the mailing list and I got a sweet birthday greeting and coupon that I can use when I go back. This post was part of the Nationwide Yarn Crawl with Cami on Art, Like Bread. I'm just doing it for fun!

The Answer Is YES!

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:00:00 +0000

The question is "Baby, Do You Wanna Bump?" by Boney M.

I couldn't resist this revelry, especially on Halloween! Enjoy!

Book Review: The Granny Square Book by Margaret Hubert

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Granny and I have had an interesting relationship. I'm not going to pretend to be one of those crocheters who has always been enchanted by granny squares. For most of my life, granny squares were associated with tacky couches covered in clear plastic, saggy nylons, and the smell of mothballs. (Perhaps I have revealed too much about my childhood. - Just kidding!!)

But seriously, it hasn't been until recently that I've see the versatility in this classic shape, the vibrant color potential, and {how fashionable granny squares can be}. Granny's everywhere, y'all, and she's staying out late!

Image used with permission of publisher.

I can hardly believe my luck these days. I got a review copy of The Granny Square Book: Timeless techniques & fresh ideas for crocheting square by square by *Margaret Hubert*. Margaret Hubert is a prolific crochet & knit designer, and she's been in this business since the 1960s. I heard about her on one of my favorite podcasts, Getting Loopy with Mary Beth Temple.

This book is beautiful, inspirational, and stunning. There are 75 fresh g-square designs, and then the really exciting part- a whole section on designing with granny squares. Some people say that all yarn crafters are designers- probably because we take patterns and switch up yarn colors, substitute yarns, and make each creation our own. I agree with that, but there is also another level to design, which would be conceiving of an idea in your head, and figuring out how to make it real. Pattern design could include using interesting construction techniques, and communicating those techniques so that they can be replicated.

Section by Section

Do yourself a favor- don't skip the intro section. It has some cute anecdotes from avid crocheters and familiar designers. :) I even learned a new technique- the invisible join!

On to the designs! I LOVE square number one. I'm seeing a gold scarf made from that one. :) These squares are very pretty and have tremendous potential. There are a lot of flower-centered motifs. That would make a cute garden-themed blanket or handbag. Sometimes I just like to make motifs in sock yarn because they are pretty and I learn something. Perhaps I shall try that for this book.

Here are three versions of square number one: Picot Square! I'm doing a scarf made from these squares.

Pretty cool in this fuzzy yarn, eh?

Dare I make every single square? :) If you want a sample, check out this post at Craftside, which includes a free sample pattern!

You'll be happy to know that in addition to written instructions, Margaret provides clear schematics, and instructions for *half* squares in some designs.

The design section is different- in a good way! It starts off simple, with several basic projects you can adapt using yarn and hook choice. This is great because honestly, you can keep busy for quite a long time just doing these few simple projects. But, of course, the section gets more in-depth and explains the process of graphing to design your granny projects. Since we're working with squares, that makes a lot of sense!

There are progressively more intricate patterns, and each are laid out so that the crocheter *understands* them. I remember when I first started crocheting with patterns. It was a leap of faith. I felt like I did when I would try a new form in origami- if I just follow these instructions, somehow I will magically come out with a form that looks like something. With these patterns, the construction is explained, so I was able to get an idea of how it works before even beginning the project.

I particularly like the Yoga Tunic and Bag Pattern. I may see these in my future. I am also eying the Pillows with Panache.

Over all, it's a good book. Lots of ideas here. It's worth it for just the square designs, but there's so much more.

For more grannynspiration, definitely check out Sarah London, and the beautiful Things to Make and Do blog. :)

#Christmas Crafting! 20 Free, Masculine #Crochet Pattern Links

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000

We all know that gender expression is a pretty relative thing, and nothing really could be defined as "for a man or a woman" (except this), right? Well, that's what I think, anyway. Even so, I personally have at least two men on my perpetual Christmas list that have a traditionally masculine style.

Each hand-crochted gift is an individual creation, from the moment you pick the pattern and yarn, until the finished item is gifted. So, use the list below to choose projects for those people who can rock a masculine style.

Ooo, cool! The Brain Waves Beanie pattern comes

in child & adult sizes at Playin' Hooky.

Link over to "Playin' Hooky Designs" for the free pattern.

This earflap hat can be made in any color.

The design team at Lion Brand never fails.

Earflap Hat by Lion Brand. Click through to find pattern.

This guy's sly smile tells us one thing.

He loves this hat!

Streetwise Brim Hat by Sharon Mann for Red Heart. Click for free pattern.

A guy would totally wear this and it's totally in style right now.

Brimming with Fun Cap by Sharon Mann for Red Heart. Click for free pattern.

Ooo. Now this is an interesting one. I could see the boys in my class loving this one.

The Convertible free crochet pattern on Crochet Uncut. Click to link!

The basketweave scarf is a classic. It's easy and adds texture.

It's great for practicing post stitches.


Winter Wear Accessories by Marilyn Coleman and Gayle Bunn for Red Heart.

Cables are cute, too!

Crochet Cable Scarf by Coats and Clark. Free pattern link

Rock this, dude.

Subway His or Her Scarf by Vickie Howell. Click to link.

I am all about this scarf in a bulky, non-fuzzy yarn.

Alternating Windowpanes Scarf Click for free pattern on Crochet Me.

For the interesting, pensive types, try Dave 2.0 by Vickie Howell.

Click for free pattern on Crochet Me.

I've made a Flexi Cowl and they RULE!

It's an easy pattern with many possibilities.

Flexi Cowl by Alicia Ramirez of hookandneedles.com

Babies would love these!

Free pattern at Coats and Clark. Click to link over.

Yeah. Sock monkeys know no gender. No age, either.

Seriously- How adorable is this?


Free pattern by Linda Cyr for Red Heart.

For the wee ones on your list- a cute turtle from Red Heart!

Turtle Pillow Pal by Nancy Anderson for Red Heart. Click for free pattern.

This would look great on any guy's couch.

Diagonal Pillow by Kathy Wigington for Red Heart. Click for free pattern.

This would be a fun way to practice your colorwork while making a sweet gift.

Two-Color Pillow by Candi Jensen for Red Heart. Free pattern link.

A music lover would love this, too!

Right Round by Rommyna de Leeuw for Tangled Online Magazine. Pattern Link.

Who doesn't want this cute rug in their home?

Whimsy Stripes Rug by Lion Brand. Click for Free Pattern.

Dishcloths or washcloths are quick, useful, and always appreciated.

Here's a cute one from Lion Brand.

Click here for the free pattern on LionBrand.com

Nosh.

Free burger pattern from Lion Brand. Yums!

Innovative Sculpture by Dev Harlan

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 12:25:00 +0000

I saw this video link on Olek's facebook page. It's exquisite.

Dev Harlan - "Parmenides I", 2011 from Dev Harlan on Vimeo. Dev Harlan - "Parmenides I", 2011 Foam, wood, plaster, video projection Dimensions approx 8' diameter Light sculpture at Christopher Henry Gallery, NY. Presented as part of Dev Harlan's solo exhibition "The Astral Flight Hangar" Videographer: Dustin Cohen Audio: USMILEAMBIENT by Shamantis

More about Dev Harlan here.

Knitting Goes Digital? It's About Time!

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 22:53:00 +0000

I belong to a crafting group that meets once a month or so to sit around, gab, and shoot the stitch. We're a mixture of students, mothers, teachers, and professionals. A couple of us are expats. One of the things that comes up time after time (especially among the expats in the group) is the marked dearth of knit and crochet books that are available digitally.

We are craft consumers. We are the target audience. We want those hot craft books the minute they come out. Seriously, though, the titles are just not available to us locally, and buying online means a cost more than double the list price, and hoping that the book actually arrives.

So I just about did a backflip when I got the following video and email in my inbox. STC Craft | Melanie Falick Books has released eight wonderful knitting titles in digital form. Happy dance!

Check out this wonderful video which really highlights how special these books are. It's inspirational!

I had the received a sample copy of Last-Minute Knitted Gifts, which downloaded quickly and perfectly onto my little netbook. I anxiously devoured the digital pages, and found that although I am primarily a crocheter, this book has much to offer even me.

For one, I was enthused to realize that the author is none other than Joelle Hoverson, the owner of Purl Soho. I'm about to admit to some serious craft geekery here, but I actually read the entire Purl Bee blog this summer. Yeah. I'm serious. It just rocks, people. That's all that needs to be said.*

Click to see a quintessential Purl Bee posting. You'll bee in love.
Image property of Purl Bee and used with permission.

Last-Minute Knitted Gifts begins with some background information on the store, Purl, as the impetus for the book. The author goes into choosing project colors and color theory. I love color, and color theory is of paramount interest! The author goes on to explain the color choices for a few of the projects in the book and why they are so striking.

Then it's on to the projects! This book is a winner, and it has an avid following on Ravelry. :) I don't know about you, but I always check Ravelry to see which patterns are available in the book and just what can be done with the patterns.

If you are looking for a gift to knit in less than 2 hours, 2-4 hours, 4-6 hours, 6-8 hours, or 8+ hours, download this book immediately. It's good stuff. As for me, I'm eyeing the under 2-hour gifts. That's mainly because those are the ones I feel I can finish, and also because I have lots of baby friends who would love a hand-knit something to keep them warm this winter!

The final thing I wanted to point out about this book is that even though it was originally printed in 2004, it remains perfectly relevant with timeless designs and even a beautiful chevron scarf that even Missoni would envy.

*As an aside, reading the Purl Bee Blog and watching the entire season of She's Crafty on DVD got me

into this "I'm so excited for Christmas" kick. I'm still on it. Not exactly normal for me, but, hey, I'm going with it.

BTDubs, the publisher requested I put the book cover and video in this post.

Definitely check out the video! There are also other videos on the site which

are equally as inspiring.

#Giveaway! The Big-Ass Book of #Crafts 2 by Mark Montano!

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000

I have exciting news to share today! Tuesday, Oct. 11 marks the launch of the next AMAZING craft book by Mark Montano. Check out this video to find out all about it!

The Big-Ass Book of Crafts 2 (sample project link) is the sequel to the wildly successful Big-Ass Book of Crafts, which is now available digitally!

You can be sure that I was incredibly excited when Mark's publisher contacted me to review the book. Just a few days later, I had it in my hot little hands, before the release date! Gallery Books was even kind enough to set up an interview with Mark Montano for the Art, Like Bread Podcast, which is still in its infancy, but how lucky am I to have such an opportunity. Stay tuned to the blog for more on that.

Seriously, I LOVE Mark Montano. I have always admired his aesthetic sense and I truly believe that he has an open, creative, interesting, and accessible approach to craft and design. I have been passing his book around to my students and crafty friends and EVERYONE wants a copy.

Look how many bookmarks I added. This book will get a LOT of use!

Well, anyone can buy a copy at their local book shop or online retailer, but TWO, yes TWO lucky Art, Like Bread readers will win a copy of this amazing book for their very own!

Mark Montano's blog is one of my absolute favorites, and he updates it regularly with inspirational pictures and great projects to try. Most recently, I was amazed by this beautiful flower, made from a recycled water bottle.

In order to enter to win a copy of The Big Ass Book of Crafts 2 by Mark Montano, simply leave a comment on this blog post. :) I will use a random number generator to choose the two lucky winners on November 11, 2011, and your book will be shipped to you directly from the publisher.

Trust me, you'll find something you absolutely have to make in this book. You'll find great techniques you've never tried. You'll find interesting ways to use normal, household items. You'll be inspired. I am!

ETA: The giveaway has ended. Thank you to all who entered. The winners are posted here.

Reviews

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Sun, 09 Oct 2011 14:18:00 +0000

Guess what? Art, Like Bread readers can look forward to more reviews here on the blog! Somehow, someone has identified my blog as a good place to promote new books and products.

YAY!!

As you know, I do this simply for the love of craft, but I've always dreamed of being one of those bloggers who "has been sent a sample copy" of a book, or "requested a sample" of a product. I'll review products & books I like anyway, but being asked to review is flattering and fun!

Stay tuned in the next few days for a BIG DEAL book review and giveaway!! Until then, I've drafted this blog post to let the world know that I am open. I welcome the prosperity and I want to pass it on to you, too.

Let me know what you think, readers! It's all for you, after all.

HONESTY
My first responsibility is to my readers.

I started this blog in 2007 simply as a way to share my craft projects, ideas, and inspiration. Over the years, the blog has grown into something more: a space for community-building and conversation. Through my participation in online and real-life crafting communities, and also through my extensive personal and work-related networks, I have grown a loyal, specialized cohort people who admire a handmade or artistic aesthetic, and of course, hardcore & casual crafters.

ENTHUSIASM | POSITIVITY
I am happy to provide honest, reliable book and product reviews for them. Get me excited about a product and I won't shut up about it! If I don't like it, I simply won't review it. It is important to me that my blog is a place where I can be positive and send positivity into the world.

GROWTH
- Art, Like Bread will be featured in two prominent, upcoming crochet books. As of October, 2011, I have received confirmation of the inclusion of my patterns in these books.
- The Art, Like Bread Podcast has launched and will increase the readership and reach of Art, Like Bread.
- I have a team of trusted and knowledgeable reviewers who can cover products as well.

FOCUS
Crochet, collage, crafts, yarn, coffee, tea, scrapbooking, paper, stationery, rubber stamping, fabric, sewing, tools, food, cooking, fashion, accessories, gifts, children, and anything fun/useful for my readers! (Check out my labels at the bottom of the blog for very specific information on what I've written.)

CONTACT
If you have a product to share, please contact Cami at artlikebread(at)gmail.com. I excitedly check this account to see what's out there! My readers love giveaways, and I love to provide them, so if you have a new product to share, I'm ready to pass that on to my amazing network of wonderful readers!

Inspiration: the 1920's

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 11:00:00 +0000

It all started when I returned to Mexico after a wonderful summer in the U.S. I went out with one of my dear friends just to watch a movie and relax. I didn't know what we'd see, and my friend chose the Woody Allen flick, Midnight in Paris. I had absolutely no idea what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised with a beautiful, fun, inspiring film about one of the most artistic cities in the world.

Image Source: Amazon.Com

What's more- I'm newly teaching The Great Gatsby in my U.S. Lit class this year. It's great to find connections between the modern media and the curriculum. I hope by the time we read the book (in November) we can get a copy of the film to inspire us in class.

Image Source: http://images.quickblogcast.com/

The visuals of the film were exquisite, and you get the idea that these times of the past exist with us now. In a way, they do. They exist in our hearts, and in our history. They influence us and inspire us in ways we don't even know.

Image Source: amsu-english.wikispaces.com

For instance, right now we're reading The Catcher in the Rye (1940's, I know.) in my U.S. Lit class. I remember being floored by the writing- the voice- when I first read it. So frank, so informal. I read it in the early 1990s, about 45 years after the first publication. Now, about 20 years after that, with the advent of blogs, and with the emphasis on the individual, with the disregard for the conventions of the English language, with reality television, and with all of the other works that have been influenced by and even attempt to emulate Salinger's style, I fear that the impact of the voice is lost. It's still a worthy piece of literature, but perhaps it seems a bit less revolutionary. However, that would tell us how far we've come, and just how influential this particular piece of literature has been.

So, the past exists with us now, and, inspired by the film, in which the main character actually visits the 1920s and meets his historic literary and artistic idols, I spent hours on the internet finding more information about Hemingway, Stein, Baker, Brunel, and the movements of the time.

Image Source: danliterature.files.wordpress.com

I downloaded the A Moveable Feast audiobook and listened to it three times that weekend. I watched surrealist films on youtube. I decided I'd love to be Josephine Baker for Halloween this year. And I moved forward, inspired by the 1920s and the movements of the time.

Then my favorite crochet fashionistas, The Double Stitch Twins released this pic in their Etsy shop

Click through to find this garment for sale on Etsy.Photo credit: Double Stitch Twins

I think it would be perfect for a Josephine Baker costume

(in white over a long, simple, white sheath dress).

Image Source: findagrave.com

It would be easy to find feathers and big jewels.

One last taste of the 1920s for you: Vogue Magazine tweeted the Marc Jacobs Spring 2011 Collection from NYC Mercedes Benz Fashion Week.

Images by Vogue Magazine

Digital Collage Using Picasa

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000

I'm very interested in learning digital scrapbooking for a lot of reasons. Firstly, I don't want to devote quite as much space to scrapbooking supplies as I currently do. Secondly, I have TONS of digital pictures. (No surprise there.) And finally, I hear that making a digital scrapbook page is pretty quick- much quicker than a traditional one.

My problem is that I don't have Photoshop on my computer. I also don't know how to use it. When I use a computer program, I just tend to play around with it. I don't necessarily explore every option. I downloaded a free version of Picasa by Google, and I use that to edit my photos nowadays. I like Picasa because it's easy to use, has lots of options, and it interacts with my Google Account and Blogger!

I like making collages, both by hand and digitally. One thing I've thought of doing is taking a bad picture and working it over in a picture editor until it's cool.

Unfortunately I didn't keep the original picture, but this is pretty close to what it was.

Here's one of the collages I did.

And here's another.

But this one is probably the best.