Art, Like Bread

Remembering Rav

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Sun, 20 Jul 2025 00:46:00 +0000

I remember when I used to live-blog yarn projects with great glee on Ravelry. That feeling of excitement when I started chaining... Uploading pictures to document my process. Recording every detail. I LOVED working with yarn and that activity has given me the greatest rewards, not the least of which is a number of deep connections and great community relationships.

Recently I started going to a yarn group again. On Monday I brought a sizable chunk of my late aughts/early teens magazine stash to the group. It was so much fun to revisit those publications with friends and have that feeling of wanting to make so many different things. I was, again, amazed by the creativity of the craft. The patterns were varied and imaginative. Truly inspiring.

Ravelry is a different place, now, but much of it is the same and feels like home. I am trying to establish a regular Ravelry habit. To that end, I went through my account to do some cleaning and organizing. It felt like cleaning out an attic. 🙂 I visited many of the different areas - cleaning up cobwebs, discarding once-loved relics, and rediscovering the value in what I have.

Here's what I did. I deleted all of the groups that were no longer active. After finding a couple of boards that were of interest and still percolating, and I organized my forums to have those pop up first. To make my first looks appear fresher and inspiring, I renamed my projects and tagged them using a new tagging system. I also applied that to my pattern section so I can create bundles. In this way, Ravelry can look a bit like Pinterest, which would be good for me. Finally, I cleared up my queue to things that don't make me feel guilty, and also to things that I would like to work up quickly with yarn I already have.

That's enough for now. I have been enjoying these exercises and remembering. I am glad.

This is my process

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 14:47:00 +0000

I'm reflecting on a lot of the rapid cultural changes we have been seeing as of late. Part of me thinks like a passenger on a boat - wondering what I can adjust to make my passage easier, and to survive this journey. Another part wonders how much I should do to influence the direction of the boat. How much can I do? HOW could I even do it?

I started this blog, earnestly, to have a place to share my art. I've done a lot. There's a lot I haven't done. I've gotten a lot of attention from it. And now we're back to the place where I would probably have to scream to get anyone's eyes on this blog at all. That is perfectly fine with me. It gives me freedom to develop my voice.

I feel like my creative self for the first time in years and that feels really good. So I am doing this for me.

Yes, I'm Back. And goals.

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 13:56:00 +0000

Yes, I'm back. But did I ever go anywhere?

I suppose that depends upon who you ask... I have been very active on my main social media outlet, which is Instagram. I post lots of stories, which to me are like curated, digital magazine tearsheets from this soul collager. I love it and don't ever want to stop! ✂

Now for the goals.

I want this to be an art review blog. It's something I am good at, and something I love. I can not tell you how much my soul aches to be in a museum and communing with art every single day. I am exhilarated by curation and I believe in the beauty of sharing art.

So I'll be sharing art reviews here. Some will be from exhibits I have attended, and others will be from those I wish I could see. But they'll be here. And my goal. My real goal... Mmmm. I want to say I'll do it once a week. So I guess it'll be every Tuesday. You know that's a stretch for me on this blog. After all, it's been dormant for over 3 years, but I do really want this, so... Tuesday it is!

See you next Tuesday.

What's Next?

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 23:05:00 +0000

I have long since outgrown this platform, which was a beautiful and freeing outlet for my love of crafts. While I figure out where to take my website next, please follow me on Instagram for frequent content in stories and on the grid.

Art Review: Artweek 2019 - Fall BFA Thesis Exhibition La Concha Happy Hour at FIU

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Sat, 30 Nov 2019 15:47:00 +0000

In an effort to be more involved locally and support the work of up and coming artists, I am excited to welcome photographer Byron Gramajo to my team.

He recently attended "La Concha Happy Hour," which was a student thesis exhibition at his school, Florida International University. The exhibit ran from November-December 2019, and featured various student artists, named below.

A Pearl is a Parasite: Sonia Royal, Shirley Chong, Elizabeth Pino, Karolina Eguino. I am afraid to own a Body: Iman Hassan, Allison Rapport, Yeinely Duran, Victor Barbero, Naomi Peguero. All FIU BFA candidates Fall 2019.

The exhibit was grouped into two categories: A Pearl is a Parasite, and I am afraid to own a body.

Shirley Chong was part of the "A Pearl is a Parasite" portion. She created ceramic bowls and a meditation space, as seen below. In her piece, she connects with materials as well as the audience. There is a performance element. The audience becomes a co-creator with the artist. As they enter the space, they feel the space, and experience the feelings of calm. This experience is now something the audience holds with them. They leave transformed.

Shirley Chong, A moment, 2019, Terra Cotta Clay, Wood, Chamomile tea, photo @gramabyron.jpg

The complex artwork of Karolina Eguino is of particular interest. Her technique is to layer photographs atop one another. In this, she is creating a space where the past, present, and possible future exists simultaneously.

Karolina Eguino, Untitled 1 (2019), Untitled 2 (2019), Untitled 3 (2019), inkjet prints, photos by @gramabyon.jpg

I am afraid to own a Body by Emily Dickinson, photo by @gramabyon.jpg

In the next section, artist Iman Hassan offers us a record of the natural world and a glimpse into natural order in this world that can appear chaotic. Each of the prints were selected for what they could offer to the paper. Which were willing to be fossilized, and which were uncooperative, insisting to pass through time on their own terms?

Iman Hassan, Study of plants (2019), monoprints: black ink, paper, photo @gramabyron.jpg

It is an absolute honor and a pleasure to welcome Byron to my team. I am excited about his talent and knowledge of the art world. I am excited about what this collaboration will bring. If his sensitive coverage of this exhibit is any indication, then the sky is the limit.

If you would be interested in learning more about the local art scene in South Florida, please let me know by leaving a comment or contacting me at artlikebread (at) gmail (dot) com. As always, thanks for reading the blog!

Please leave your thoughts, ideas and questions in the comment section below. If you liked this post, please share this post with a friend through social media and get yourself to a local student show!

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Art Review: Happy! at NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Thu, 28 Nov 2019 19:59:00 +0000

If you know me, you know I am always ready to bliss out, but sometimes that is harder to do than other times. Sometimes I just want everything to be cute. I want cute so much sometimes that I don’t know what to do! So when I was looking for current exhibits to review, Happy! at NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale caught my eye with its bold, iconic, smiling cloud. Cute! I’m in.

And yet, before I even entered the exhibit, I starting thinking. In this world that appears to be self-destructing, when and how can we practice happiness? What makes us happy? What makes us escape? Do we need sadness in order to have happiness?

I placed a wish on the Wish Tree by favorite artist Yoko Ono, and walked inside.

Three big, happy clouds greeted me as I ascended the stairs.

Little Cloud

Then I saw a big pile of candy! CANDY!!

Felix Gonzalez-Torres

"Untitled" (Portrait of Dad), 1991

White candies individually wrapped in cellophane, endless supply

And a big stack of paper! PAPER!!

Felix Gonzalez-Torres

"Untitled", 1989/1990

Print on paper, endless copies

The museum guard told me I could take a paper. I took one of each. I’ll be making art with those papers later.

Such divine curation. I’ve seen similar exhibits at MoMA and the Guggenheim.

And I got to walk underneath a rainbow!

And all of these bows remind us that the December holidays are right around the corner!

Kathryn Andrews

Gift, 2011

Serigraphs

And. I saw. This.

Keith Haring

Untitled (Pink Smiling Face), 1981

Baked enamel on metal

It’s Keith Haring. KEITH HARING. In Fort Lauderdale. Yes, seriously. These are seriously impressive gets. I was floored and it was just beginning.

More Haring.

Keith Haring

Untitled (For Salvatore), 1984

Acrylic on glass

Remember when Target ripped this guy off a few years ago? I saw the balloon animals of Jeff Koons in person, baby!

Jeff Koons

Balloon Monkey (Blue), 2017

Balloon Rabbit (Red), 2017

Balloon Swan (Yellow), 2017

And the ultimate picture wall.

What did I think?

Alma Thomas

Night Sky Mysteries, 1973

Acrylic on canvas

This exhibit is so rich and complete. There is absolutely no way I could cover it in just one blog post. And there is so. much. more. to see and experience in this exhibit. If you are anywhere near South Florida before it closes on July 5, 2020 - GO!!

I am incredibly thankful for an enriching visit to the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale. I loved it so much, I bought a membership! I will definitely want to go back to this exhibit over and over again. It doesn’t close until July 5, 2020. That’s a lot of months to enjoy this amazing exhibit. See you on Instagram!

If you are interested in learning more about the thriving art scene in South Florida and also learning and making stuff, please join my mailing list. As always, thanks for reading the blog! Please leave your thoughts, ideas and questions in the comment section below & find your bliss wheresoever it is!

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Gratitude Craft: Sweet, Paper Succulent with Inspirational Quote DIY

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Sun, 28 Oct 2018 17:08:00 +0000

I recently had a birthday and I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of love I got from my coworkers. I didn't expect anything, really, but I knew that some departments really do up the birthdays. Therefore, when I got into work and saw my workspace decorated with streamers and balloons, I almost cried. But it didn't end there. At lunchtime, my coworkers brought me a tres leches cake with cherries on top! My sweet coworker also gave me a card. I just felt so appreciated and I was really very touched.

Since I started my new job it's been a bit of an adjustment. I don't have lots of time to blog or craft. To add to that scarcity, I also moved to a new apartment and that process has cut into my crafting groove. But I am the type of person who gets cranky when she's not creating regularly, so I decided to just craft slowly, step by step. And now I'm blogging about it to boot! Perhaps we're ushering a new era of Art, Like Bread.

Two of my sweet, paper succulents made with love for my coworkers.

Supplies
2 1/4" by 3 1/4" Card printed on one side
Glitter Thickers
Black Pen
Paper Succulent Flowers
Double sided tape
Reese's Mini Peanut Butter Cups
Optional: Pencil and ruler

Procedure

1. Personalize the front of your card with your recipient's name. I used a glitter thicker for the first letter of each name, and wrote out the rest in black pen.

2. Choose a quote that would be meaningful to your recipient. I used the website "Brainy Quote" and read through a lot of quotes until I found quotes that reminded me of what makes my coworkers special. Write the quote on the back of your card with attribution. (My cards had pre-printed lines, but you can draw lines on the back of your card with a pencil and ruler.)

3. Arrange each mini peanut butter cup so that the larger part is facing up.

4. Using double sided tape, affix each paper succulent flower to each mini peanut butter cup. You have made a sweet, paper succulent.

5. Using double sided tape, affix each sweet, paper succulent to the front of a card.

Your gift is ready to give!

The recipient can either leave the succulent as is, or eat the candy and then affix the succulent to the card as a keepsake!

Art Review: 140 Unlimited at the Mount Holyoke College Art Museum

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 16:03:00 +0000

It was a privilege and an absolute pleasure to view 140 Unlimited: Recent Acquistions in Honor of the Mount Holyoke College Art Museum's 140th Anniversary during its final days.

View of the Caroline R. Hill Gallery, 2016

Mount Holyoke College Art Museum, South Hadley, Massachusetts

Photograph Laura Shea

The exhibit, which was on view from September 2016 until May 2017, was conceived in celebration of the Museum's long and storied history. The Mount Holyoke College Art Museum (MHCAM) is one of only a handful of collegiate art museums with such longevity. The hallmark of the MHCAM is the fact that its collection is uniquely comprehensive, spanning from antiquity to the present. As a top teaching museum at one of the nation's finest institutions of higher learning, students can interact with art to gain deeper understanding of chemistry, biology, literature, film, physics, and art history. The museum staff is collaborative, open, and education-focused, working to foster visual literacy and other important skills such as close observation, conceptual linking, creative response, formal analysis, and primary research. (source)

While Mount Holyoke students are privileged to have the museum right on campus, the surrounding community is welcome to enjoy and learn from the rich collection housed within the museum. While I was on campus for my college reunion, I was delighted to view the newest acquisitions. The collection was impressive, inspiring a fresh, personal emotional response to each piece. Sadly, I only had a few moments to take it all in, but I was thrilled that these pieces have a home in the permanent collection at my alma mater.

What follows are images of two objects from the 140 Unlimited exhibit. To read a collection of insightful essays about different pieces in the exhibit, please check out the museum's newsletter 140th Anniversary Special Edition, and open the pdf.

Guanyin (Avalokiteshvara), 960-1368 (Song Dynasty or Yuan Dynasty)
Chinese Wood with traces of gesso, paint, and gilding
Gift of the Arthur M. Sackler Foundation
Mount Holyoke College Art Museum, South Hadley, Massachusetts
Photograph Laura Shea
MH 2012.40.2

Faith Ringgold (American, b. 1930)

Somebody Stole My Broken Heart, 2007

Ink on paper; screen print, edition 27/60

Partial gift of the Experimental Printmaking Institute, Lafayette College and purchase with the Susan and Bernard Schilling (Susan Eisenhart, Class of 1932) Fund

Mount Holyoke College Art Museum, South Hadley, Massachusetts

Photograph Laura Shea

MH 2016.2.9

Bonus: You can search the MHCAM and the Five College collections here. If you would like more art reviews, please let me know by leaving a comment or contacting me at artlikebread (at) gmail (dot) com. As always, thanks for reading the blog! Please leave your thoughts, ideas and questions in the comment section below. If you liked this post, please share this post with a friend through social media & share the art & education love!

The Great Spring Crochet Destash! My Latest #Crochet Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Fri, 07 Apr 2017 14:45:00 +0000

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

It is hard to believe that one quarter of 2017 is already behind us! For readers in the northern hemisphere, it’s time to gear up for warmer weather and sunshine, and shed all of the extraneous yarn and supplies that kept you warm all winter long. But regardless of your location, now is a great time to make a commitment to destash! Read this post and make a plan to get rid of the supplies that have long plagued you and get your space ready for creativity.

Before we begin, let’s take a moment to reflect on why we need to destash this spring in the first place. Years ago, I asked What’s in Your Stash? and you answered. Ask yourself that question now. For some of us, it could mean a lot. And, yes. A crochet stash could be too large: case in point. Yet, we can stash down! And here’s a foolproof plan to do so.

Sometimes it can be hard to part with the luscious yarn, so luckily I’ve rounded up a bunch of patterns designed to eat up yarn. You can always use up yarn more quickly by doubling it all up! Don’t forget you can share with friends and arrange a crochet giving circle.

When you’ve finally gotten all of the extraneous supplies taken care of, you can give your space a good scrub down with these spring cleaning crochet tips. And then, to maintain your new, clearer space, use these tips to organize your crochet stash.

So what about you, my friends? What are you looking to destash this spring? How are you planning to do it? Please leave your thoughts, ideas and questions in the comment section below.

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Book Review & Giveaway: Melissa Leapman’s Indispensable Stitch Collection for Crocheters My Latest #Crochet Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Tue, 03 Jan 2017 16:26:00 +0000

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

Melissa Leapman is fiber arts royalty as a prolific and celebrated designer. Known for knitting as well as crochet, Leapman has built a robust career with over 1000 published patterns in print. Her wealth of design experience serves as a foundation for her beautiful, new reference book, Melissa Leapman’s Indispensable Stitch Collection for Crocheters. Read on to find out a bit about the book, and to see how you can win a copy!

In this 176-page book, we are introduced to a comprehensive collection of crochet stitch patterns divided in to six categories: Simple Solid Patterns, Shell and Fan Stitch Patterns, Openwork and Lace Patterns, Textured Patterns, Colorwork Patterns, and Edgings. There is also a useful resource guide in the back of the book with information about reading symbols, basic stitches, and abbreviations. These features combined with Leapman’s introduction with useful tips about how to use the stitch patterns make this not only a useful, but also a fun addition to your crochet library.

I have seen (and I own) a great deal of crochet stitch dictionaries. I can say from experience that this is a very high quality reference to have on hand. There are beautiful color photos of each example, along with crochet symbol charts and written directions. The stitches move from simple to complex, so it’s a good learn-as-you-go type of book.

If you’ve pledged to increase your crochet skills in 2017, then why not let this book be your guide? If you crochet a swatch of each pattern you’ll have a huge skill boost and a collection of pretty squares to join!

In order to win your copy, enter by commenting on this post until January 31, 2016. I’ll contact the winner via email afterwords.

What about this book sounds best to you? Is there a certain type of crochet stitch you’d like to explore? Please leave your thoughts, ideas and questions in the comment section below.

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Crochet Pattern: Tall Ice Cream Cone Applique My Latest #Crochet Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 05:06:00 +0000

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

Ever since I attended a craft party for the charity Sole Hope, I have been thinking about crafting with denim in new ways. During the party, we cut up old jeans into pieces to make shoes for children who need them. Thinking of old jeans as a textile, I began imagining painted denim canvases and tote bags. And a denim tote bag would look great with a crochet applique like this one on it!

Skill Level:

Finished Size: 5″ (13 cm) wide, 8″ (20 cm) tall

Materials:
Medium Weight Yarn (approximately 25 yards of each color)
Crochet Hook H (5.00 mm)

Gauge:
Rows 1 – 6 in pattern measure 2.5 inches (6 cm) by 2.5 inches (6 cm)

Need help understanding the abbreviations and symbols? Check out the crochet abbreviation chart.

Crochet Pattern: Tall Ice Cream Cone Applique
Row 1: with cone color, ch 11, hdc in third ch from hook and in each ch across: 9 hdc
Rows 2-8: ch 2, turn hdc in each hdc across: 9 hdc
Row 9: ch 4 (counts as 1 tr), turn, 4 tr in first hdc, hdc in each of next 7 hdc, 5 tr in last hdc: 17 tr
Row 10: change to ice cream color, turn, (ch 4, sc in next tr) 17 times: 17 sc
Row 11: ch 3 (counts as 1 dc now and throughout), turn, skip first 2 sc, dc in next sc, dc in next 11 sc, skip 2 sc, dc in last sc: 13 dc
Note: Push all “loops” to the front of work.
Row 12: ch 3, turn, skip first dc, dc in next 9 dc, dc2tog: 11 dc
Row 13: ch 3, turn, skip first dc, dc in next 9 dc: 10 dc
Row 14: ch 3, turn, skip first dc, dc in next 8 dc: 9 dc
Row 15: turn, skip first 4 dc, 12 dtr in next dc, skip 3 dc, sl st in last dc: 12 dtr
Finish off. To close hole made in the middle of row 14, weave matching scrap yarn through the base of dtr stitches and pull tight.

Need help while crocheting? Feel free to leave a comment below and I’ll help you out!

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Crochet Pattern: Reusable Gift Bow My Latest #Crochet Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Thu, 01 Dec 2016 05:36:00 +0000

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

The holidays are just around the corner. How are you doing with your handmade list? Well, sometimes you’d like to add a handmade touch to your gifts, even if you have to buy the gift itself. Previously, I shared Three Ways to Incorporate Crochet into Your Gift Wrapping, and those ideas still hold up. Today I share a simple pattern to make a crocheted bow that you can use over and over. Switch up the colors to match any gift wrap or theme!

Skill Level:

Finished Size: 5.5″ (14 cm) wide, 3″ (7.5 cm) tall

Materials:
Medium Weight Yarn (approximately 10-25 yards of each color)
Crochet Hook H (5.00 mm)
Yarn Needle
Optional: Twist Tie

Gauge:
Rows 1 – 7 in patterns measures 5.5″ (14 cm) wide, 3″ (7.5 cm) tall

Need help understanding the abbreviations and symbols? Check out the crochet abbreviation chart.

Crochet Pattern: Reusable Gift Bow
Row 1: ch 20, hdc in third ch from hook and in each ch across: 18 hdc
Rows 2-7:ch 2, tuurn, hdc into each hdc across: 18 hdc
Finish off.

Border
With a contrasting color, single crochet evenly around. Finish off.

To form bow, using contrasting yarn, weave a loose running stitch up the middle of the rectangle (as held lengthwise). Gather the crochet fabric as it puckers in the middle. Tightly wrap yarn around the middle of the piece. Tie with a double knot to secure. Add a twist tie to the back of the piece in order to use the bow over and over.

Need help while crocheting? Feel free to leave a comment below and I’ll help you out!

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Crochet Pattern: Chihuahua Ears Headband My Latest #Crochet Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 04:11:00 +0000

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

While this may be a controversial position, I believe the chihuahua is both the cutest and mightiest of dogs! I am excited to share the love by designing this cute chihuahua ears headband. The ears are constructed separately and then affixed to a store-bought, plastic headband. This could be the beginning of an easy Halloween costume.

Skill Level:

Finished Size: Each ear measures 3″ (8 cm) wide, 3″ (8 cm) tall

Materials:
Medium Weight Yarn (small amounts of white and tan)
Crochet Hook H (5.00 mm)

Gauge: Rows 1 – 4 in pattern measure 3″ (8 cm) wide, 3″ (8 cm) tall.

Need help understanding the abbreviations and symbols? Check out the crochet abbreviation chart.

Crochet Pattern: Chihuahua Ears (make 2)

Row 1: With white, fdc 9 times, fhdc: 10 sts

Row 2: ch 1, turn, sc in first 3 sts, hdc in next 3 sts, tr in next st, dc in next st, tr in next st, 2 tr in last st: 11 sts
Finish off white yarn, and rejoin with sl st on other side of row 1 foundation stitches.

Row 3: ch 3, dc in next 8 sts, hdc in next st, sc in next st, do not turn, ch 1, work 2 sc along side of row 1: 12 sts
Finish off white yarn. Join tan yarn to the beginning of row 3 (the row just worked), with a sl st into the top of the beginning ch-3.

Row 4: ch 3, dc in next 2 sts, hdc in next 3 sts, sc in next 3 sts, sl st in next 4 sts, sl st in ch-1 of Row 2, picot, sl st in space before Row 1, sc in next 10 sts of Row 1: 24 sts

Finish off. Weave in ends. Using 18″ of white yarn, whip stitch ears to plastic headband. The thick, tan part should go on the inside. If desired, weave in thin craft wire to give ears movement.

Need help while crocheting? Feel free to leave a comment below and I’ll help you out!

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Crochet Pattern: Panda Headband My Latest #Crochet Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 05:04:00 +0000

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

Who says that kids should have all the fun? This cute and whimsical panda headband will keep your ears warm and lift your mood. Good for adults aged 18 to 108, this headband also serves as an earwarmer in the colder weather. It could be a great accessory for Halloween, or anytime you feel like rocking panda ears.

Skill Level:

Finished Size: 22 1/2″ (57 cm) circumference, fits most adults. Instructions to adjust size are included in pattern.

Materials:
Medium Weight Yarn (approximately 100 yards of white and small amount of black)
Crochet Hook H (5.00 mm)

Gauge: Rows 1 – 9 in headband pattern measure 4″ (10 cm) by 3 1/2″ (8 cm)

Need help understanding the abbreviations and symbols? Check out the crochet abbreviation chart.

Crochet Pattern: Panda Headband for Adults

Headband
Row 1: with white, work 15 fhdc
Row 2: ch 2, turn, working into back loop only, hdc into each hdc across: 15 hdc
Repeat row 2 until piece measures 22 1/2″ (approximately 44 rows), or the desired head circumference.
Finish off, leaving a 12″ tail for sewing. Fold piece in half without twisting so that short sides are together. With a yarn needle, whip stitch short sides together.

Ears (make 2)
Round 1: with black, ch 4, sl st in first ch made to form a loop, ch 2, 7 hdc in loop: 7 hdc
Round 2: ch 2, turn, 2 hdc in each hdc across: 14 hdc
Round 3: ch 2, turn, (hdc in next hdc, 2 hdc into next hdc) across: 21 hdc
Round 4: ch 2, turn, (hdc in next 2 hdc, 2 hdc in next hdc) across: 28 hdc
Finish off, leaving an 8″ tail for sewing. Position ears by trying headband on and carefully pinning ears to the side. Please use the photo for reference. With a yarn needle, whip stitch the ears into place. If desired, weave in matching chenille stems / pipe cleaners to add stability.

Need help while crocheting? Feel free to leave a comment below and I’ll help you out!

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How to Make a Yarn Flower Using a Fork (Tutorial and Free Download)

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Sat, 01 Oct 2016 04:00:00 +0000

Hey! Remember how I raved about the new book Knit, Hook and Spin by Laurie Carlson? Well, I'm back today to share a free pdf download from the book (courtesy of Chicago Press), and to also give you an idea of how to use the delightful floofs that you make!

Use the floofs:

Crochet Pattern: Happy Links Necklace and Bracelet My Latest #Crochet Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 04:34:00 +0000

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

I bought a bag of beautiful embroidery floss from the craft store and I have been loving the experimentation process. How can I combine different strands to achieve a different look? Since embroidery floss will always remind me of friendship bracelets, I wanted to make a chunky bangle to keep or give to a friend. I had so much fun with the technique that I kept going! The end result was a jewelry piece that could be used as a necklace or bracelet, featuring links that are perfect for attaching charms. Fun for adults, and kids, too!

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Book Review: Knit, Hook, and Spin by Laurie Carlson

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 00:53:00 +0000

It is an absolute pleasure to review the book Knit, Hook, and Spin by Laurie Carlson. The timing is quite apropos, as a new school year is upon us! Teachers, parents, and kids may want to give this book a try.

Before we get into the nitty gritty, I should say that Chicago Press provided me with a copy of the book but all opinions are my own.

The reason I had an interest in this book is that I have been working with elementary-aged students. What impresses me so much about them (and one of the things that impressed me about my older students as well) is how wildly expressive they are. I love how my students dive in and create without fear. For them, creating is a game and it's a lot of fun! I couldn't agree more!

One thing that I lament a little is the fact that I can't teach them everything I want to share with them about different art forms. That is one of the reasons why I was so impressed with this book. It serves as a valuable resource that children can pick up on their own and learn about all kinds of fiber arts by reading and then trying.

Carlson divides the book into eight crafting sections, covering felting, knotting/braiding, spinning, weaving, knitting, crochet, dyeing, and recycled crafts. The introductory section is about all different kinds of fibers, and the final chapter serves as a call to action: Get Involved! These sections contain wealth of information and may help a dedicated crafter know what to do with their creations and new knowledge.

I like the look and feel of this book. The layout and fonts are inviting and fun. The black and white illustrations are clear. I love that there are no photos, because kids can follow the directions and come up with their own version of the projects. There is no pressure to make your project look glossy and professional. Kids should be exploring and having fun! A final thing I love about this book is that the projects are practical. From felted soap to crochet comfort dolls, children can make things that they can actually use! I love it!

The picture below will give you an idea of how the book looks and feels. I will link to a free download of the book page on October 1, 2016.

As always, thanks for reading the blog! Please leave your thoughts, ideas and questions in the comment section below. If you liked this post, please share this post with a friend through social media & trumpet the need for great books like this! Like my Facebook page for updates and more crafty sharing!

Crochet Pattern: Tiny Heart Charm My Latest #Crochet Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Thu, 01 Sep 2016 05:41:00 +0000

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

My artistic heart has been strongly drawn towards mixed media and art journaling lately. While I am learning dozens of interesting techniques through watching instructional videos and devouring books, I am always thinking about how I could incorporate crochet into the mix. This tiny heart is perfect to tuck into a journal or attach to a page if crocheted in embroidery floss. If you decide to scale the hook and yarn size up, this cutie can embellish a hat or a bag. Switch up yarn color combinations for lots of mixed and matched fun!

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Crochet Pattern: Pineapple Applique My Latest #Crochet Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 04:20:00 +0000

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

Have you noticed how popular pineapples have been lately? Artistic renderings of pineapples are adorning all kinds of things from clothing to accessories to school supplies! This crocheted pineapple applique was inspired by a cartoon image I found online. I like how this one is a little unsymmetrical. For some reason that appeals to me. It would be fun to crochet this in different colors to decorate a tote bag, t-shirt, pencil case, or even a book cover. Just use strong glue to attach them.

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How to Crochet: Standing Single Crochet My Latest #Crochet Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 04:40:00 +0000

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

Standing single crochet is a method for joining a new yarn and/or color to your work. It is as simple as starting with a slip knot on your hook with your new yarn and making a single crochet stitch. You can use this technique in place of having to tie your new yarn to your work.

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Crochet Pattern: Mason Jar Wristlet My Latest #Crochet Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Mon, 11 Jul 2016 04:21:00 +0000

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

I use mason jars for nearly all of my beverages. I like using glass instead of plastic, and mason jars carry a certain charm. I have been toting cool water everywhere in a crocheted pouch, now my coffee and tea have been getting jealous. Therefore I’ve designed this cozy for the 24-oz wide-mouthed mason jar in which I carry my coffee each morning. If you’ve seen my other patterns, you are already familiar with my mason jar!

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How to Crochet an Edging for your Bullet Journal My Latest #Crochet Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Thu, 23 Jun 2016 04:11:00 +0000

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

As I have an interest in virtually all things crafty, I have recently become enamored of bullet journaling. Bullet journaling is a relatively new concept that combines a planner, to-do list, and diary into one volume. I have only been bullet journaling for less than two weeks, but I can say it is a system that works well for me and allows me to incorporate my artsy craftsy side into my daily planning. A big bonus is that it really helps to keep me organized!

It occurred to me that crochet could (and should!) be incorporated into bullet journaling. This tutorial focuses upon crocheting an edging for your bullet journal. For the purposes of this tutorial, I will be using a piece of cardstock cut to 4.75 in (12 cm) x 8.25 (21 cm) because those are the dimensions of my bullet journal...

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#Juneteenth DIY Art Journal Page

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Sun, 19 Jun 2016 04:00:00 +0000

Juneneeth, celebrated on June 19 each year in the United States, is a day to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved Africans.

While Africans who were held in bondage, abused, and forced to perform hard labor were legally free throughout the former slave states on January 1, 1863, their lives did not necessarily change because of the end of the Civil War. Slave owners delayed compliance with Emancipation Proclamation, the executive order issued by President Abraham Lincoln. June 19, 1865 is the day that the news of freedom reached the far-flung state of Texas.

Check out artlikebread.com on #juneteenth, June 19, for #artjournaling prompts encouraging reflection on the holiday. Made this #artjournal page in my #BulletJournal. It's so great: I will just add this to the index! Supplies: pencil, #zigmarkers, #gelpens #micronpen, #sharpie. ❤️⚫️💚

A photo posted by Cami from artlikebread.com (@artlikebread) on Jun 18, 2016 at 6:29pm PDT

Although the history of African Americans in this country is complicated and painful to confront, it is through celebrations like Juneteenth that we can pause and reflect upon the strength, resilience, and creativity of my people.

Therefore, I have created a journal page (above), a tutorial (below, and a free download of the handwritten Emancipation Proclamation and some Juneteenth titles and embellishments to help my readers incorporate Juneteenth into their crafting lives.

Juneteenth Art Journaling Page

Write "Juneteenth" in pencil, then outline all around it in black pen. Erase the pencil lines. Color in the title.
Using green and red markers, add accents to your title.
Using red brush marker, write the year "1865."
In pencil, draw a smaller oval and a larger oval (chain link) over the 1865. Next draw an oblong oval. Draw a chain link. Draw an oblong oval on the other side. Draw a chain link and then erase part of it. Embellish the open chain. Color the chain in silver Sharpie. Erase the pencil lines.
Draw scrolls coming out of the chain in pencil.
Using a fine-tipped pen, write the following passage from the Emancipation Proclamation (full text):

...all persons held as slaves within any State or designated part of a State, the people whereof shall then be in rebellion against the United States, shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free; and the Executive Government of the United States, including the military and naval authority thereof, will recognize and maintain the freedom of such persons, and will do no act or acts to repress such persons, or any of them, in any efforts they may make for their actual freedom.

Using a navy blue gel pen, outline the scrolls. Erase any pencil lines.
In the corner of the page, write "FREEDOM" with a pencil, then outline all around it in black pen. Erase the pencil lines. Color the word in brown marker. Using bronze and gold sharpies, embellish the word.

Juneteenth Printable Free PDF Download

As always, thanks for reading the blog! Please leave your thoughts, ideas and questions in the comment section below. If you liked this post, please share this post with a friend through social media & bask in freedom. Like my Facebook page for updates and more crafty sharing!

Crochet Pattern: “I Love Crochet” Beaded Bracelet My Latest #Crochet Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Sat, 04 Jun 2016 04:07:00 +0000

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

You can find alphabet beads in the kids’ section of your craft store. But why should kids have all the fun? I love using alphabet beads for various crafts, and since we’ve been exploring beads quite a bit here on Crochet Spot, I decided to design a bracelet that proudly proclaims to the world my love of crochet! I hope you like it as much as I do! This pattern is written to accommodate the “I LOVE CROCHET” message, but you could substitute other words.

Skill Level:

Finished Size: Finished bracelet fits 7.5″ (19 cm) wrist as written. Add or subtract from beginning chain in order to lengthen or shorten bracelet. Standard bracelet sizes are as follows:
Newborn – 6 months – 4” (10 cm) – 4 ½” (12 cm)
6 -12 months – 4 ½” (12 cm) – 5” (13 cm)
1 – 4 years – 5″ (13 cm) – 5 ½” (14 cm)
4 – 7 years – 5 ½” (14 cm) – 6″ (15 cm)
Petite Woman – 7″ (18 cm)
Average Woman – 7.5″ (19 cm)
Larger Than Average Woman – 8″ (20 cm)

Materials:
Embroidery Floss (2 skeins – approximately 20 yards)
Crochet Hook D (3.25 mm)

Gauge: 39 chains measure 8.25″ (19 cm) long
Need help understanding the abbreviations and symbols? Check out the crochet abbreviation chart.

Get the whole, free pattern on Crochet Spot.

Crochet Pattern: Colorful Rainbow Mug Rug My Latest #Crochet Writing

noreply@blogger.com (Cami) — Thu, 26 May 2016 04:20:00 +0000

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

I could not stop with just one Mug Rug pattern, especially with the merry month of June upon us. Show your pride and/or love of diversity this summer with this versatile Colorful Rainbow Mug Rug! I made mine using (some of) a jumbo package of embroidery floss. Each color used just over one 10-yard skein of floss held double (two strands of floss held together while crocheting), meaning each stripe used the length of about 5.5 yards as held double, or about 11 yards total. These stripes could be changed to any colors to suit your mood. The cotton floss held double ended up being about the weight of a sock yarn.

Skill Level:

Finished Size: 4.25″ (11 cm) wide, 7″ (18 cm) tall

Materials:
Lace Weight Yarn (held double) (approximately 11 yards of each color)
Crochet Hook D (3.25 mm)

Art, Like Bread

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Crochet Pattern: Happy Links Necklace and Bracelet My Latest #Crochet Writing

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

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Book Review: Knit, Hook, and Spin by Laurie Carlson

It is an absolute pleasure to review the book Knit, Hook, and Spin by Laurie Carlson. The timing is quite apropos, as a new school year is upon us! Teachers, parents, and kids may want to give this book a try.

Get Monthly Updates about Crafts, Crochet, and Education: Join the Art, Like Bread Newsletter

Crochet Pattern: Tiny Heart Charm My Latest #Crochet Writing

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

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Crochet Pattern: Pineapple Applique My Latest #Crochet Writing

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

Read the whole article on Crochet Spot: http://ift.tt/2avUCOi

How to Crochet: Standing Single Crochet My Latest #Crochet Writing

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

Read the whole article on Crochet Spot: http://ift.tt/2aYIirY

Crochet Pattern: Mason Jar Wristlet My Latest #Crochet Writing

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

Read the whole article on Crochet Spot: http://ift.tt/29HMNr5

How to Crochet an Edging for your Bullet Journal My Latest #Crochet Writing

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

Read the whole article on Crochet Spot

#Juneteenth DIY Art Journal Page

Juneneeth, celebrated on June 19 each year in the United States, is a day to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved Africans.

Juneteenth Art Journaling Page

Juneteenth Printable Free PDF Download

Get Monthly Updates about Crafts, Crochet, and Education: Join the Art, Like Bread Newsletter

Crochet Pattern: “I Love Crochet” Beaded Bracelet My Latest #Crochet Writing

Get the whole, free pattern on Crochet Spot.

Crochet Pattern: Colorful Rainbow Mug Rug My Latest #Crochet Writing

This is my latest blog post for Crochet Spot! Read the whole article on crochetspot.com

Get the whole pattern on Crochet Spot.