Calleigh's Clips & Crochet Creations

Featuring: Heather Evans - Scentsy Consultant

2012-02-08T09:00:00.000-06:00

I'd like to introduce to you :

Heather Evans Star Consultant for Scentsy

Now I'm sure most of you are familiar with Scentsy.

I have many friends that sell it but I just usually avoid the parties and such for many of the independent consulting companies like (pampered chef, mary kay, avon, jewelry and more) I think I could literally go to some sort of party every week so instead of choosing I just say no....LOL. Not that I don't like them I just feel bad that I can't buy from everyone.

When Heather asked me to share Scentsy with you I was very excited! I love candles and good smells in my home but with littles around I don't like fire going. I'm afraid I'll leave one lit!

Heather is super sweet and she sent me a surprise package and this is what I received

Medium size warmer (in my favorite color purple - How'd she know?!?)

and three Scensty bars in great scents of

Black Raspeberry Vanilla- Delicious

My Dear Watson- Sophisticated and smart

and Camu Camu - Tropical scents

I really liked them all!

What I love about Scenty is of course it's a warmer so no need to "light" a candle. The warmer melts your favorite scent nicely. I also like the convince of breaking off a little wax at a time and it lasts a couple days. I have a small home and it fills the every room in the house with it's aroma. So a very small amount and a small warmer go a long ways in my house.

I'm looking into getting a bigger warmer and plug in for the bath room though! I think Heather has reeled me in!

So let's find out a little bit about Heather and how she got started selling scentsy:

Where are you from?

Sunny Southern California

Name of your shop/business

I'm an Independent Consultant for Scentsy Wickless Candles

What do you specialize in?

Scented wax, lightbulb warmers

What made you decide to start your business?

I actually didn't want to start my own business! With the encouragement of brother-in-law's girlfriend and the support of my friends and family my "just for fun" thing has turned into a real business!

What is your favorite item?

I love the Jane warmer. One of my customers said it looks like a palace Tinkerbell would live. The plug-in warmers are perfect for the bathroom to keep that fresh clean smell all the time. As for wax there are so many that are my favorite and it changes all the time. That's the beauty in Scentsy vs a traditional candle; you're not committed to one scent. You can change it from day to day and blend fragrances to to get a truly custom scent.

Do you donate or give back any portion of your sales to charity or an organization?

I have done Scentsy events where my commission from the sales goes back to the organization. I have raised funds for the American Heart Association and my daughter's pre-school. Scentsy also chooses a foundation or cause with each new catalog campaign. Currently its the Ronald McDonald House. Which the purchase of the Saha Buddy net proceed are donated to Ronald McDonald House across America. Previous causes have been: Austim Speaks, Brest Cancer Awareness and the Sunshine Kids. A new cause will be launched March 1st.

You can find Heather on

Facebook

Scentsy Sight

Maybe you'd like to sell Scensty too - Just visit her site for more details. Looks like a great deal to sign up this month!

Introducing Raverly Bundle Coupons

2012-02-03T11:03:00.000-06:00

I'm so amazed at what a wonderful month January was for my business. I've been a little overwhelmed with orders, designing and trying to email patterns out. I always email pattern with in 24 hrs. (usually in just minutes to few hrs.) but once in a while they just don't come through on your end. Technology is a mystery to me sometimes. I've done a little something that will be a time saver for me and I think benefit to you!

I have my patterns in three shops - Etsy, Ravelry, Artifire.

While I like Etsy- The fees are down right crazy. I won't tell you what it was but it's outrageous! It's not so bad when you only sell a few things but when you sell a lot the numbers rises fast.

I like Artfire but it seems that many of you don't prefer it and it just doesn't get the traffic. I don't get many sales but I only pay $6.95 a month because I signed up on a promo and as long as I keep my shop that's all I'll ever have to pay. No listing fees or sales fees.

I love Ravelry and once you hit a certain amount of sales the fee caps out at $10.00 a month- The biggest benefit is instant downloads! No waiting on my to send patterns. Plus you can save them in your raverly library so that if you lose it or accidentally delete it it's always there. This shop prevents me from lots of resending. Raverly emails always come through! I've never had anyone with an issue!

Now for the Ravelry benefits! You can now purchase the same bundle deals I offer on my other sites with the use of coupon codes - These will only be for the Critter Capes since they are all the same price. The other misc patterns at $4.50 you'll have to purchase separately or get a bundle in my other shop. It's the only way I could get the codes work here properly with out you being over charged :)

Ravelry

I really hope you'll enjoy the benefits of bundle deals on Ravelry! It will save me a lot of time and money too!

If you follow on facebook you already know but today only Ravelry I have a buy any 2 get 1 free. Just put 3 patterns in your cart and the discount will automatically be applied!

So which shop do you prefer and why ( as a seller or buyer) ?

Featuring : Love Me Ragged By Tracy

2012-01-25T09:00:00.000-06:00

I'd like to introduce to you one of our newest sponsors :

Love me Ragged by Tracy

Blog Interview questions

Where are you from?

The Central Coast of California (Grover Beach)

What do you specialize in?

Photography Props for all ages

How long have you crocheted?

on and off since I was 8

Where do you draw your inspirations?

Myself, my daughters, nieces , nephews, sister in law and even my dad.

Do you have a item you've made that is super special and why?

My sleepy owl hats (especially the hot pink and green) It was the first animal hat in my shop and the first one I received pro photos of. My sister in law Nicole is a professional photographer and when I showed her the pink and green owl hat I had crocheted, she totally loved it and that is really when I decided to change directions with my shop. Since I listed the owls I have sold so many. They are so cute and very popular! I have dreams that I am crocheting them and nightmares where I forget to make and ship them. lol

What other crafts do you like to do?

I love making rag quilts. Originally that is what my shop was about. I couldn't come up with a name and my sister in law Nicole came up with Love Me Ragged and it just stuck. It was perfect! I will continue making them again in the future.

Do you donate or give back any portion of your sales to charity or an organization?

I recently found out about "Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep" and for those of you who don't know about this organization please visit their website and read about them they really are amazing! I will be making donations to them. I have made a few other donations recently. It feels really good to give back!

Why do you love to crochet?

I love taking a ball of yarn and creating something by hand for a child that can be cherished for a lifetime. Handmade items are always special! Especially if it's for a photo shoot because when I receive the feedback that the mommies just adore my props, I know I am doing a good job and that's the best feeling. I also love seeing the babies in my hats! That is rewarding in itself.

Who taught you to crochet?

Both of my right handed grandmothers. I am a lefty and with a lot of patience (mostly on their part) and practice, I was able to learn the art of crochet the backwards way!

On a More personal note:

Fun questions:

if you could have a super power what would it be?

The ability to cure cancer!

If you had a million dollar how would you spend it

Buy my brother a house, my dad a truck & toy hauler and the rest to St. Jude

What's your favorite color?

Pink

If you are a salad what kind of dressing do you have?

Definitely blue cheese

What did you want to grow up to be when you were a child?

A nurse! I'm pretty close Certified Medical Assistant

Favorite movie and why?

The Notebook. Best love story ever! They never stopped loving each other. Reminds me of my grandparents.

Thanks so much Tracy for sharing your lovely shop with us!

Please check out Love Me Ragged by Tracy

facebook. blog and

Etsy

Coupon code: facebook2012 for 15% off entire purchase (expires Feb 14th)

Featuring: Sweet Crochet Creations

2012-01-18T09:00:00.000-06:00

I'd like to introduce you to one of our newest sponsors Carrie Bennett of

Sweet Crochet Creations

I've asked her a few interview questions so we can learn a little bit out her and her shop:

Were are you From?

Monterey, CA (but am now in the San Francisco Bay Area)

How long have you crocheted?

I think I learned when I was really young - maybe 8? I remember crocheting a sweater for my Cabbage Patch doll! But I recently picked it back up when my husband started doing photography professionally. It's kind of like riding a bike, but I had to figure out how to read patterns and learn a few new stitches. There are some great resources online.

What is your favorite stitch?

Probably a half double crochet. Or maybe any decreasing stitch...since that usually means I'm almost done! lol

What do you specialize in ?

Crochet hats for all sizes

How did you get started in your business?

My little shop started because I was making hats and props for my husband's photography business (www.colejbennettphotography.com). Clients started asking about purchasing the hats, so I happily obliged. :) I just added some items to my etsy shop and I'm hoping to get a little busier this year. My mom actually helps a lot too.

Do you have an item you've made that is super special and why?

Recently, an old friend asked if I could create two police caps for unborn twins, due any day. They lost their father to prostate cancer while their mother was pregnant and he was a beloved police officer. I was on a mission to find a pattern. I found one, tweaked the pattern a little, and made the hats. I added their father's badge number as well as a baby blue ribbon, which signifies prostate cancer. The girl's hat has a little flower as well. I'm looking forward to seeing the babies with their hats (any day now), and I hope they cherish them.

On a more personal note:

If you could have a super power what would it be ?

FREEZE TIME - all I ever want is more time! To crochet, to sleep...

Favorite vacation spot or travel destination?

My favorite vacations have been in Mexico. My honeymoon in 2005 was in the Riviera Maya and I've been to Cancun twice in the past few years.

What did you want to grow up to be as a child?

Either a teacher or a pediatrician because I wanted to work with kids. I ended up a high school guidance counselor, so I'm still working with kids - just the big kids. It's a rewarding job and you can't beat the school year's schedule!

Thanks so much Carrie for sharing your shop and a little about you!

Please check out Sweet Crochet Creations on Facebook and Etsy!

Chain-less Foundation Heart Headband

2012-01-17T09:39:00.000-06:00

Need a simple project for Valentines day! This one is perfectly sweet!

Chain-less Foundation Heart Headband

Materials : Small amounts Thick and Thin Handspun Wool Yarn (wpi 3-4-5)

I get mine from Ilashdesigns

N/P -15- hook (10.00 MM)

Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Measuring Tape

You can really make this any size but I'm focusing on NB

(you can find a general sizing chart here for any size)

For Newborn we want it to measure around 13 inches. This headband will have about a two inch stretch so it can fit 13-15 inches (nb-3month)

We are going to use a method called a chain-less foundation. If you don't know how to do it. I have a video linked up to help here

Headband

- work a sc chain-less foundation for about 20 chs (measure your headband un-stretched. Should be about 13 inches long. You may need to increase or decrease your stitches based on the type of yarn used)

Join to 1st ch, (be sure your work is not twisted ) Fasten off and weave in ends.

*Note if you work your ends to the right side of the headband you can tie it off and the heart will cover it!

Heart Appliqué

Pattern use with permission by Sara Sach of Posh Pooch Designs
-This is actually a design by my late Grandmother!

(N- Hook) -
Round 1 -Ch 3, work in the first ch from the END, 3 tr, 3 dc, chain 1, 1 tr, ch 1, 3 dc, 3 tr, ch 2, sl st, leave a 8 in tail of yarn, and pull to the back.

Closing the Hole in the Center:
Thread the tail of yarn on to the yarn needle, then on the back side of the heart draw the yarn through all the loops in the circle, and secure the yarn. Fasten off but leave about 8-10 inches to attach to headband.

Attached the heart to the seam where we joined the headband. It will hide it nicely! Try to weave off your ends to the back stitches of the heart. That will keep your work secure and no knots of loose ends in the headband itself.

*Other yarn options.
I've seen several stores coming up with a non-wool thick and thin you can try these or you can also use your favorite bulky weight or two strands of worsted Weight for this project. Just be sure to measure your headband so that it is two inches smaller than the size of the head measurement and it will come out fine!

If you have any questions or see any mistakes (which happen :P) Feel free to contact me using the contact tab and I will try to get back to you within 24 hrs!

Enjoy!

Copyright ©2012 Calleigh’s Clips & Crochet Creations All rights reserved. These instructions may not be photocopied or reproduced in any manner. They may not be sold. I have made every effort to ensure that these instructions are accurate and complete. I cannot, however, be responsible for human error, or variations in individual work.

Actual finished product may be sold. My Etsy shop name ID and URL web page address must be mentioned in listing or wherever item is displayed: Calleigh’s Clips & Crochet Creations by Elisabeth Spivey http://www.calleighsclips.com

Holy Social Networking Batman!

2012-01-13T22:48:00.000-06:00

This has been an amazingly crazy week! I'm obsessed with checking my google analytics for my shops and blogs. I love to see where people are coming from and it's a good way to see what people are blogging or talking about in my shop!

I recently have noticed that my views in etsy had significantly rose from some very interesting sources that have talked about my shop and our products!

Usually my top sources come from Facebook, my Blog and Pinterest!

I thought I'd share a few! Some are really good! Some are unique and Some just really annoy me!

1. DailyMail - UK Based Online Newspaper - Featured my Batman and Robin Cape Sets
2. Buzz Feed- Featured my Batman and Robin Cape Sets
3.The Mary Sue - The Guid to Girl Geek Culture - Batman and Robin Cape Sets
4. Slash Film Blogging the Reel World - Featuring Batman Cape Sets
5. Poorly Dressed - Featuring the Turtle cape (while the name is deceiving it wasn't a mean article)

That's just to name a few that I had high volume hits from! Social networking is amazing!

Here are my thoughts on it! I really love the free advertisement but I guess if I was going to share someones work or ideas I would credit them. I think that people don't realize there are copywrites on most of the images I use. (while some of these do give me credit in name I don't understand why no links)

If your going to share someones work. Here are a few things I think are very important:

1. Ask them if it's okay! - Send them an email, ask a few questions, get the facts straight before you publish and article!
2. Make sure you have permission to use images. Most the time if it's for advertising me I would say of course as long as I and the photographer get credit.

a. it's never okay to remove watermarks!
b. it's never okay to alter the image in any way!
c. Its never okay just to use someones else's photos - Don't copy, save or use! - You must get permission from the photographer, I and maybe even the parent! Believe it or not some parents don't want there babies image plastered all over the internet. (while they probably task the risk and is why photographers should have parents sign a release to the photographer do they know how it could be used)

3. Let them know when your going to publish the article or blog!

I would like to know because -

a. I got tons a hits over the course of two days. This resulted in awesome sales( way above normal). Not that that will happen every time but since one was a popular newspaper article in the UK things got totally crazy with my pattern listings. I would have made sure there were extra causing less hassle for the customer and for me. Also it being international I got a tons of sale over night so again knowing when it was I could have better prepared.

b. It would have prevented lots of convos and emails about how to find the items that were shared.
(my guess is that they googled and found me that way since many didn't link to any of my websites. So people didn't now where they could buy my patterns or items!

So I hope the people that published these aren't offended but I think that some of you could use a little internet etiquette!

*side note back to Pinterest! While I to am obsessed with it! Please Please Please don't save image and upload them without actually linking to the source. (my turtle image is everywhere I can usually get on Pinterest and it will pop up on the front page often) I wish I had time to go through and paste my links all over it but that would be a little tasking and I don't have time for that.

*I will do my best to protect my photos but I think I could seriously hire someone to find all the images used with out credit and fix the issue. I just don't have time to be the copywrite police!
I found one person using it as there profile picture on a forum because they just thought it was cute. While I can understand it being cute that isn't your picture to use! (they kindly agreed to take it down) {thanks}

This also reminded me that one of my goals for the next month is to re-watermark all my images. I've not done them all but I'm going to do it so that even my professional images that are already watermarked have my website one them in a way that to me will probably distract from the image but make it hard for someone to remove it and then if it does get taken then at least my web address will be there so people can source it back to me! Hopefully that will also prevent other sellers from using them. Just a reminder to the craft world show your own work! You can easily find a photographer to work with! I've had the privilege to work with some awesome ones and if you can't save for a great camera and work with natural light! I started from scratch too!

A lot of people ask me how I find my photographers and how did you grow so fast and how do you get so many orders. The bottom line is hard hard work! It's taken me two years to get here and I have a lot of people to thank for helping me along the way but the truth is it's really is hard work! I love what I do and I wouldn't change it for anything. I'm always happy to help! I hope you find this article helpful and maybe the next time you blog or share a resource don't for get to give credit where credit is due!!

So the long and short of it! If your going to share or blog about someone, get permission, get the fact straight and give credit where credit is due!

Thanks!

Winner of the 2012 Crochet a day Calendar

2012-01-04T10:01:00.003-06:00

Hello! Thanks so much for those of you who participated in the 2 Year Celebrations yesterday! I had my biggest sales day ever and gave away around 650 Cupcake patterns and lots of other fun prizes!

We have one last prize to pick a winner for and Random.org has spoken

The winner of the Crochet a day 2012 Calendar is :

#35 Christin said...

i liked you

December 31, 2011 2:13 PM

Christin has 48 hrs to claim her prize by using the contact tab to email me! If I don't hear from her a new winner will be selected.

2 Year Celebration FUN DAY!!

2012-01-03T14:02:00.002-06:00

It's Here!

If you haven't joined in on the fun on my Facebook page I think you just might be missing out!!!

I'm giving away lots of patterns. Some are for a pattern of choice others are for the eight new patterns I released today! (Jan 3, 2012)

1st

We have 10 % off finished items in my Etsy shop

Just enter the code at check out

celebration2012

2nd

We have a sale on patterns

buy 3 for $10.00

3rd

a Brand New Free Pattern for today only

Just Click this link for your free download

Celebration Cupcake Cuddle Cape Set

4th

I'm giving away a free advertising blog on my blog

Click here to enter -

5th

If you haven't had a chance to enter to win the 2012 Crochet a day Calendar you can still do that all today!

So many Great things going on! I hope you'll stop by and see the new designs and play along!

New Year Celebration Giveaway

2011-12-31T12:05:00.002-06:00

First of all I just wanted to thank all my fabulous fans and customers for making this a beyond successful year! I never would have imagined my business grow as much as it did and continues to do! I'm so very excited for the new year!!!

January marked two years of Calleigh's Clips and Crochet Creations. So I have a fun day planned on Facebook - Tuesday Jan 3. Mark your Calendars and get ready for lots of discounts, and lots of pattern giveaways! One of the most exciting things is that for that day only I will be giving away one of the new designs for that day only!!!

Next Tuesday I have 8 new patterns to release!!! Some are much requested, more critters, more holiday themed and one that isn't even a cape set but goes great with them! I want to kick start the event with a great prize giveaway!

The prize :

Crochet a day -2012 Calendar

100+ Patterns

I have one pattern published in here - Calleigh's Comfy Headwrap

There are other great designers with patterns in here like Posh Pooch Designs and Just Be Happy just to name a few!

How To Enter:

*Note- Must make individual comments for each entry!

Required - 1. Like us on Facebook

"additional entries"

2. Follow this blog on google friend connect

3. Follow us on Twitter
4. Share this giveaway on your Facebook page or profile, Twitter or blog! (three entries)
Be sure to tag @calleighsclips if you can!
5. Purchase a pattern or finished item Sat Dec 31- Tues Jan 3 (one entry)

Sample : Have you entered to win a 2012 Crochet a day calendar giveaway from @calleighclips!!! ?

I'm looking forward to our fun day!!! See you then!! : )

Winner will be chosen no later than Wed Jan 4th via Random.org

Legal Stuff: The winner will be drawn randomly via random.org, and will be announced on this blog - once the winner is announced, you will have 48 hours to claim your prize. If the prize is not claimed with 48 hours, a new winner will be drawn. You MUST be 18 to participate. Prizes do not have cash value. There will be no returns on any of the items. This promotion is in NO WAY sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook.

Malachi's Christmas Wish - Final update!

2011-12-19T17:41:00.001-06:00

For those of you that have been following Malachi's Christmas Wish I wanted give you another update!

I first wanted to say another big thank you for those of you that donated through purchasing patterns and those that just gave freely to help a family make their little boy's Christmas Wish come true!

They just started fundraising this week and I'm just so excited that not only all the money came in but more that enough came in. I know we were only a small part but I'm excited that we got involved. Knowing the family personally makes it even that more special to me.

She shared with me today as I was giving her the check that her son's Therapist was taking about Malachi bike with a neighbor friend and that neighbor was burdened to share it in their sunday school class at a local church. They raised a large sum of money there but then word spread through that church and they raised a more than enough money to cover the remaining balance. They told the family to use the money however they like.

As I shared they have six children and another lovely little one on the way so she told me that the extra funds would be used to have a special Christmas for the other children. I think she mentioned taking the family to see an OKC Thunder Basketball game!

I just thought I'd share a personal special Bible verse that is important to me. Just a reminder that the Lord can meet your needs no matter how great or small.

Merry Christmas and Thank you!

A bike for Malachi - Update #2

2011-12-16T12:28:00.001-06:00

I can't thank you all enough for all your support over the past two days in the fundraiser for Malachi's Special Bike! I'm happy to announce we raise $330 dollars for Malachi's bike! This will help make a nice dent in the total amount they still need to get.

The bike costs $ 3522

They've currently raise $1885

We will contribute $330

Bringing the total they still need to around 1300 dollars.

Malachi's mom has created a Facebook page

Malachi's Christmas Wish

I think it would be great if you just stopped by the page and let the family know you donated and leave them a friendly note of encouragement or wish them a Merry Christmas. You'll be able to follow the progress and hopefully we'll see him get this bike!

If your local to the OKC Metro any donations can be taken to First Fidelity Bank in Heather or Malachi Trent's name or mailed to Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation, 5300 N. Independence Ave. Suite 100, Oklahoma City, OK 73112.

If anyone still wants to donate through me via paypal your more than welcome just use the contact tab for details and I will be sure the family gets the money!

THANK YOU!!!

If you didn't get a chance to read about Malachi Wish you can read our updates here and here

A Bike for Malachi - Update #1

2011-12-15T15:43:00.001-06:00

THANK YOU!!!!

I just want to saw a HUGE- Thank you!

If you want to know more about this story read our 1st post

A Bike for Malachi

So far since last night we've raise just shy of $250 dollars and sold 50 listings! That's over 100 patterns

I've sent them allover the USA to Australia, Canada and the Philippines

It's been exciting to see your involvement and sweet messages. I can't tell you what this will mean to the Trent family .

We still have a long way to go raising the funds (around 1500) and my special will only run til midnight!

I'd really like to raise another $250 more by tonight! Will you help us reach that goal.

To donate you can purchase any two patterns from my shop for $5.00 all this goes to Malachi

Here is the listing

If you don't crochet maybe you can just donate a few dollars. There is a link on the 1st blog post to do so.

You can also send it as a gift to my paypal account. just use the contact tab to the side or above and let me know so I can get you my email address.

I've had a few other shops offer auctions and pattern deals as well. I'm looking forward to seeing this grow till the goal is met. You can see more details on my Facebook page!

I'll give a running total tomorrow of all we've raised!

THANK YOU!!!

A Bike for Malachi for Christmas

2011-12-14T18:16:00.000-06:00

I've been wanting to do something for someone super special for Christmas and The Lord laid it on my heart to help a very special family. I've known this sweet family for over ten years before they were married and blessed with there six adorable children(we went to bible college together.) They are a very sweet and loving family and would do anything for you! so I want to do this for them.

One of their sweet little boys wants a bike for Christmas but it's a very special bike that is going to take some work for the family to get.

Here is a little bit about Malachi from his Mom Heather:

Malachi is a 7 year old energetic boy that has a smile that can melt your heart. He was born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. Malachi has undergone 3 open heart surgeries and many other procedures. Due to the lack of oxygen through his body and complications from a heart catherization he now has CP. He doesn't let anything get in his way and always tries to keep up with everyone! Malachi receives therapy twice a week outsourced and through the school he attends. We would love for him to have a bike to ride with his siblings! His bike is a special bike that suits his personal needs. It keeps him stable yet let's him have the freedom he desires. (don't worry there is a parent brake in the back!) The final cost of the bike is $3522.35. In the last few days we have been able to raise $1800! Any donations can be sent to First Fidelity Bank in Heather or Malachi Trent's name or Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation 5300 N. Independence Suite 100, OKC, OK 73112.

I really want to help them raise the other half of the money they need so he can have this bike for Christmas. From now til Midnight Thursday only I'm going to have a listing in my Artfire shop - Called Patterns for Malachi - for $5.00 I will let you have two patterns of choice from my shop!

You can choose to make a larger donation but you'll need to email me and I'll get you my paypal information. If you have a paypal account you can send me money direct and there are no fees on my end. I will personally make the donation from us on Monday and let you know how much we raised! I'm so excited and I hope you will be able to help too.

I know not everyone can donate but if you have other ways you'd like to help feel free but let me know.

To contact me please use the contact tab on the top or left side of the page!

Peppermint Pom Pom Headband (free pattern)

2011-12-09T21:36:00.001-06:00

Peppermint Pom Pom Headband

Crochet Pattern

Skill Level: Easy

Materials : Worsted Weight Yarn (I used I Love This Yarn from Hobby Lobby)

For my colors I used Red and White Sparkle

K hook - 6.5 MM

Taspetry Needle, Measuring Tape

Optional Pom Pom Maker - I use Clover Brand 2 1/2 inch

( If you don't have one you can use this method for making a pom pom I found on Pinterest with a fork !)

Gauge - not required

Size - Newborn to Women {just follow the average size chart below}

General sizing: When measuring, measure how you would normally wear a headband not like you would a hat or cap. It tends to be a little larger than a hat measurement but not by too much.

Newborn -- 13"
0-3 months -- 14-15"
3-6 months -- 15-17"
6-12 months -- 16-19"
Toddler (1-3 yrs) -- 18-20"
Child (4-10 yrs) -- 19-22"
Adult -- 21-24"

Note:

*(I make it about a inch smaller so it will stretch for a better fit and not be to big)

*(My Daughter is 2 years old with a head measurement of 18 inches and I chained 45 )

Round 1 - working with one strand of white and one strand of red, chain to desired length for the head measurement. Be careful not to twist the chain, Join to first ch with a sl st to make a circle. ch1

Round 2 - sc in each chain around, Join with sl st to first sc, fasten off leaving about 4-6 inches on the tail to use for sewing seam secure. Keep the seam on the outer side top of the headband. We'll hide that with a pom pom and then it won't leave the seam against the head.

Pom Poms

I made three pom poms one red, one white and one with both. Leave the tails of the pom poms longer when your tying them so you can easily attach them to the headband. I spaced them just a few stitches apart. To attach use the tails and weave through the headband to the wrong side, tie them on the underside, then take the tapestry needle and weave it back up through the center of the pom pom. Then just trim the ends even with the pom pom ( really easy way to hide the ends with out weaving ends in the headband itself )

Other ideas -

It would be super cute to make the pom poms different sizes or group them close together in a triangle pattern. Or just make one big pom pom. So many other color possibilities!

My daughter loved her headband. She ran off with it and didn't want to take it off!

Finished Headband

I wanted to show you this last picture for the Pom pom necklace :)

It was actually my first attempt at the headband. I did a dc chain-less foundation headband but my son stretched it out....LOL! I was trying to make a bigger pom pom for a "snowflake" themed pom pom headband! So it became a fun necklace which she also wore the rest of the evening!

I hope you enjoy this super easy headband! As always if you have question feel free to email me using the contact tab. I love to see your finished projects feel free to share or link them up in the comments below!

Enjoy!

Copyright ©2011 Calleigh’s Clips & Crochet Creations All rights reserved. These instructions may not be photocopied or reproduced in any manner. They may not be sold. I have made every effort to ensure that these instructions are accurate and complete. I cannot, however, be responsible for human error, or variations in individual work.
Actual finished product may be sold. My shop name ID and URL web page address must be mentioned in listing or wherever item is displayed: Calleigh’s Clips & Crochet Creations by Elisabeth Spivey http://calleighsclips.com

Textured Fingerless Gloves (free pattern)

2011-12-09T12:00:00.001-06:00

Hello - I totally forgot I made this pattern last year and I never released it! So I have a free gift for you to enjoy! With the draft of winter in the air these gloves are perfect. Especially if you have a touch screen phone or iPod. Keeps your hands warm and your fingers free. There also just great around the house too keep the chill off your hats.

Textured Fingerless Gloves

(free Crochet Pattern)

Materials:

*Worsted Weight yarn ( I used I Love This Yarn from Hobby Lobby)
*H Hook -You can use larger hook if you have bigger hands.
*Stitch Markers
*Measures 7 inches around x 6 1⁄2 length or longer
*Stitches and Terms used:
(ch)chain
(sl st) slip stitch
(sc) single crochet
(hdc) half double crochet (dc) double crochet
(sk) skip

*note- I have small hands and crochet tight so you may want to crochet looser or go up to an I hook.

Make 2

Gloves are worked in continuous rounds unless otherwise noted. Do not join rounds.

Start with HDC Chainless foundation row of 21 stitches

(or if you aren't familiar with chain-less foundation you could ch 22 loosely, join and hdc around then go on to round 1 (skip the first part since you've already joined....)

Rd 1 - Make a loop but join with a sc (this is your 1st sc of the round)
(Sc dc), in first st, *sk st, (sc, dc) in next dc* repeat *to* to end of round (do not join)
Rd 2 - *sk st, (sc, dc) in next dc, repeat from * to end of round
Rd 3-6- Repeat Rd 2

*Now working in rows

Row 7- *sk st, (sc, dc) in next dc, repeat from *4 times, sc in next st, turn, ch1
Row 8- *sk st (sc, dc) in next dc, repeat from *10 times, sc in next st, turn, ch1
Row 9-10- Repeat Row 8
Row11- *sk st (sc, dc) in next dc, repeat from *10 times, sc in next st, ch 2, (thumb space made,

*Working back in rounds

Rd 12- join with sl st to sc on other side of the thumb space, (sc, dc) in next dc, *sk st, (sc, dc) in next dc, Repeat from *9 times, sk next sc, sk 1st ch, (sc, dc) in next ch
Rd 13- *sk st (sc, dc) in next dc, repeat from * to end of round
Rd 14-17- repeat round 13

You can continue on as many rows as you’d like at this point depending on how long you’d like them or finish round by:
Sk sc and sl st in next dc, ch 2
Last round – Hdc in same st and each st around, Join and weave in ends.

Fall Handmade Gift Exchange 2011

2011-12-02T15:42:00.001-06:00

Twice a year I try to participate in the handmade gift exchange hosted by Craftaholics Anonymous .
I've met some great people through it and its always fun to have an excuse to craft a little something extra. This fall I was really wanting to try my hand on a project and had a hard time shipping it away..LOL!

I knew my gift exchange partner through social media and new she knew how to crochet a little so I tried to think out side the box. I took an old picture frame and wrapped it in grey yarn. (i'm not very good at those corners. Anyone know of a good trick? ) I crocheted a few flowers (free pattern : Petal Puff Stitch Flower .) in her favorite colors and sewed them in the corners. I attached lace to the card stock and inserted it in the frame. Know she has a dainty earring holder. I made her the fun silver medallion

earrings but the yellow crochet ones are mine just for show :)

I suppose you could leave the glass in there and maybe keep a picture or printable in the frame and keep the earrings in the front. Can't wait to try this again for me :)

I was really happy with how it turned out and so was my exchange partner!

If you'd like to make the earrings pictured on the frame you can find free patterns for both

Silver Earrings - I actually just used the motif from this pattern for a really cute bracelet

Yellow earrings -Dainty earrings

Enjoy!

Updated Turtle Critter Cape Pattern

2011-11-18T15:12:00.001-06:00

I have to say when my photographer asked me to make a turtle it took me a long time to design it and I never thought it would be my best seller as a pattern and product. I've made over 125 of these this year (thats 750 pentagons :p) and sold over 1000 patterns for this.

I've got great news. I'm getting ready to release an updated turtle pattern. I hope this new pattern will help me get less questions :) Not quite ready yet but I know I'll have a lot of emails to reply to.

Here are a list of revisions

1. This new pattern has been tweaked a little so you'll notice some variances in the original pattern, after making over 100 of these this year I think I have a better layout for the pattern. ;)
2. Includes how to make a bitty bow for the girl turtle
3. included 0-3 and 3-6 months sizes
4. More pictures
5. Better explanations of joining the motifs with out having so many loose ends.
6 More adorable little tail
7. Guage and size measurements
8. Exact yarn choices as show in pictures

You may only get this revision through Dec 31st of this year. Please note this wasn't a free pattern. In order to get your updated pattern here is what you need to do.

You need to email my your receipt or receipt number and where you bought it.
If you bought a pattern package that included it I'll just need to double check that was one of your choices.

I have two shops - Etsy and Artfire
I also have Ravelry - You that bought here make it easy as all I need to do is update the pdf file and you just have to log in and download it. I will send a revelry email when it's ready so you don't have to do anything :)

I'm getting ready to make some changes as we go into the new year with pricing, patterns and items so the sooner you claim this the better.

Please note I have sold over 1000 of this pattern it's crazy! so please give me some time to verify and send back the new pattern.

If you don't receive your update please always check your junk/spam mail folder!

thank you!

Elisabeth

Photo Contest Winners Announced

2011-11-07T11:16:00.001-06:00

Thanks so much for all your participation in the Halloween photo contest. I just loved all your creations!

1st prize -Crocheter (chosen by Random.org) - is Paris Davis - you win 3 patterns of choice

2nd prize non-crocheter (chosen by Random.org - Shannon Stahl - $10.00 Credit and free shipping on next order expires (Nov 14, 2011 - shop will be closing for remainder of the year)

Random winners - Picked by me just for fun

*Sarah Scheibeler - Loved her adorable kitty hat inspired from our kitty cape pattern! - one free pattern of choice
* Jarae Wilcox - Loved the perfectly cut owl cape set and colors - One free pattern of choice

Thanks for playing!

Please use the the contact tab to claim your prizes!!

Free Crochet Subway Art

2011-11-04T18:15:00.001-05:00

Earlier this year I fell in love with subway art. I am always looking for a fun one every month. I figured it couldn't be that hard to make plus I already had the tools to do it. What I hadn't seen is one with a theme for crochet. Today I sat down at the computer brainstorming words associated with crochet, searching for through fun fonts and having a really hard time picking a color scheme.

Via Pinterest I found all these great sites to help me do this (I'm addicted to pinterest and you should be to) Follow me

1. A how to create subway art

2. Had fabulous Facebook fans help me brainstorm for words

3. I already had fonts - just search google or pinterest for free fonts and download them

4. Picking a color - This amazing site helped a ton - Deciding was the hard part!

5. I already had adobe elements.

The hard part of subway art it that I'm way to technical and a perfectionist so it took me way to long to make it but I'm happy with the results.

You can have a copy of this for free just use the contact tab or email me if you want it. I have it in 5x7 and 8x10 pdf files.

If you want personalized colors or text just ask and we'll work out something for a small fee.

What do you think? I hope you enjoy it!

Halloween Photo Contest

2011-10-27T15:09:00.001-05:00

I would love to have a Halloween Photo Contest - I hope you will participate! I love to see our props and items in action!

Here are the categories:

1. Items you made from our patterns
2. Items I made for you

These can be professional pictures, cell photo pictures, candid pictures. I'm also looking for unique pictures like (upset babies in items or something you make inspired by our patterns) This will not be a voting contest. I will pic winners at random. I will also select a few that are my personal favorites.

1. Prizes for crocheters will be 3 patterns of choice
2. Prize for non-crocheters will be $10.00 credit & free shipping on your next purchase
3. Prizes for other categorize are to be decided some with get a free pattern other will receive discounts (depending on the category your in)

Q: Do these have to be halloween pics?
A: No they can be any picture featuring any items from my shop made by me or from our patterns

Q: is there a limit to the amount of pics I can enter?
A: You can enter a max of two pictures.

To enter the contest:

Email me your photos to calleighclips@att.net
Please put
1. your name
2. child first name ( optional)
3. category - crocheter or non-crocheter

Images are due and I will upload these to my Facebook page by Nov 5th and choose winners on Nov 7th

If you have any questions please let me know !

Legal Stuff: The winner will be drawn randomly via random.org, and will be announced on this blog - once the winner is announced, you will have 48 hours to claim your prize. If the prize is not claimed with 48 hours, a new winner will be drawn. You MUST be 18 to participate. Prizes do not have cash value. There will be no returns on any of the items. This promotion is in NO WAY sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook.

OOAK TOMS SHOES

2011-10-20T14:22:00.002-05:00

So there is this super fun store in town called blue 7. They have quite a neat collection of items many from local designers. It's not your everyday handmade items either. I would say more edgy trendy! They are also a great place in town to buy Toms shoes!!! They have a huge selection for all ages. Some are OOAK embroidered.

I love Toms a little to much. Would it be bad if I told you I have over 5 pairs. (well I did win one pair from a geocaching game -Gowalla) The nice part is I have tiny feet so I can buy the youth size :P Anyways!!!

Blue 7 has this cool option to pain your Toms. My poor black toms have taken a beating so instend of getting rid of the faded, dusty pair I got them painted. they look awesome. I was inspired by Breast Cancer Awareness month so I choose White, Grey and Pink {with sparkles of course} What do you think?

I think they look awesome! I'm sure I could do this myself but if you buy your toms there they will paint them for free or else it's $3.00 (super affordable for me who has to much crocheting to do and not time to craft)

Red Heart Boutique Changes Scarf

2011-10-15T09:19:00.003-05:00

Have you ever been yarn shopping and you see a lovely skien of yarn that you just have to have. I have several skeins that way that I have good intentions for but never do anything with them . Well one skien I bought wasn't a super cheap one and I really needed to do something with it. It's called Boutique Changes by Red Heart. I've only seen it once and it was while visiting my Mom in colorado. I got it at Michaels sadly none of my local Michaels in the OKC area carry it, but it can be purchased from RedHeart's Website. Boutique changes is like 6 yarns all in one skien. It have lovely textures a few boucle types, a ribbon type, a sparkle and brushed mohair. I got the purple shade(my favorite color) but it also comes in 7 other shades.

Now the hard part deciding what to do with it. With only one skien it knew it would be small so I decided it would make a perfect scarf for the fall/winter. Now to find the right pattern. I'd tried a few things on my own and it just wasn't coming out the way I liked so I've frogged it a few times. I though maybe I wanted something lacy and open looking but then I remembered I'd saved a few patterns on Pinterest (follow me if you'd like)

I decided on a simple ruffle scarf. You can get the free pattern from Lion Brand but you have to register with there site first to see their patterns. (which they have 100s of!!!) It only took me a couple hours to do and the result it lovely! It's not a heavy scarf so it's a perfect accessory! I wish it was a little cooler her in Oklahoma so I could wear it today but its going to be in the 80's! (I really want some cool fall weather)

This is the end result! I've never really worn scarves but I think they are my new favorite! I love the way this turned out and I think I might have to have my mom pick up a few more skeins in other colors to make more! (of course as always if you interested in one for yourself and don't crochet I'd love to make you one!)

I found this really cool site on different ways to tie a scarf too. You can find that here. #5 is what I did in the pic above and my favorite way now :)

Have you ever tried this yarn? what did you make?

Have a great weekend!

Pink Poodle Cuddle Critter Cape

2011-10-11T11:06:00.002-05:00

It's a very busy time of year for me but October is an important month to me because it's Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Most people know someone with breast cancer. Last year my Grandmother was fighting it and won the battle. I made a darling little pink-a boo puppy in her honor and you can read more about her story and the puppy here:

This year I was trying to think of what to make and since Critter Capes are my speciality I had to do something. What's more perfect than a Pink Poodle. Michaels had some specialty pom pom yarn just for Breast Cancer Awareness month that was hot pink and I knew it would be perfect! ( It may be hard to find later but I'll have other options with a variegated pink pom pom yarn or other fun colors) I finally made some time to make this set up last night! I love it!

This set will be for sale soon and the pattern will be available to make your own hopefully in a week or two. I can't wait to see this on a baby!!

Premie Project - Rosies Posies

2011-10-05T08:59:00.001-05:00

I've been a long time follower of a blog by Betsy called The Dainty Daisy.

She runs a crochet business too and has a few free patterns on her blog and is working her way into pattern writing too. She recently started a project called Rosies Posies. Its a donation project for premie hats.

I had several hats sitting around that were well to small so I thought this would be a good place to send them too instead of them sitting around but I would like to try to make several more a few times a year and send them.

She wrote up a premie pattern with some different options (flowers, earflaps, owl and monkey) and had address information on where to send them here: Rosies Posies

Here is a larger version Pattern too for bigger premie babies : Large Version

In the last post she made she mentioned that they don't just need premie that really you could donate any size hat premie to adult! So I may do that too! Here is the latest post on how the donations are coming along : God is Good

I'm excited to be a part of this and I hope that you might consider doing it too! If you don't crochet these darling little hats are a great place to start and put your new skills to good use ;)

Speckled Frog Giveaway Winner Announced

2011-09-28T13:56:00.004-05:00

And the winner is.......

jennifer Crosby said...

I'm already a follower and fan of both your pages! I like the nubby newsboy cap.

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011 4:12 PM

Jennifer - please contact me at calleighclips@att.net or use the contact tab to claim your patterns in 48 hrs.

Please let me know which pattern you want from Speckled Frog and From me :)

If the winner doesn't claim their prize I will pick a new winner in a couple days. Congrats!