CRAFTYisCOOL

Grace & Ritual

2013-05-13T10:20:00.000-05:00

Over the weekend, "Grace & Ritual" opened at iam8bit in LA. You may have heard of iam8bit from their awesome video game-themed shows and their recent Nickelodeon show. They do lots of other cool stuff besides art shows too.

Grace & Ritual is an all woman show, curated by iam8bit co-founder Amanda White, featuring 47 artists in all forms of media, from painting and sculpture to photography and textiles. I decided to explore "ritual" from a religious standpoint. The image of "Our Lady of Guadalupe" has always intrigued me. It is so iconic and recognizable, and has become a part of not only Mexican culture, but pop culture too. I remember Jack Bauer on "24" had a tattoo of Our Lady when he was initiated into a Mexican gang. It has a really interesting story behind it too, not merely a painting, but a miraculous apparition that is celebrated around the world.

The pieces I make for shows are always three-dimensional but are usually meant to be displayed on a table. I wanted to try something different and have this piece hang on the wall. I acquired a large gold shadow box and a blue satin backing.

"Guadaloope" is secured inside with rays of red, orange and gold sunlight shining behind her. Her rose-colored dress is embroidered from top to bottom in gold flowers and swirls. Her turquoise veil is trimmed in gold and adorned with gold stars. She wears a black sash high upon her waist, indicative of being "with child".

A tiny smiling cherub is at her feet with real feathered wings. A dark crescent moon rests beneath her.

Seven roses surround her, crocheted from fine crochet thread. Interestingly, all of these little details have very specific meanings. A wikipedia page about Our Lady of Guadalupe tells the entire story.

I think even people who don't consider themselves religious can appreciate beautiful religious portraits and icons. I feel "Guadaloope" (see what I did there?) represents the themes of Grace & Ritual in a unique way.

"Guadaloope" sold on opening night but the show continues to run through May 26. There are some amazing pieces of art still available for purchase. Go by the iam8bit gallery if you happen to be in LA and take a look at "Guadaloope" and the other art. Tell them Allison sent you!

I Heart Beginners

2013-05-09T09:26:00.000-05:00

I get asked this question a lot:

I've just started crocheting. Do you think I could figure out one of your patterns?

I always answer the same way. If you know basic crochet stitches, why limit yourself to washcloths and scarves? I mean, I love making quick scarves and little washcloths as much as the next guy, but if you see something awesome, and you think, "I wish I could make that!", then just make it! Learn as you go!

When I first started crocheting I was doing it completely wrong. Self-taught, no one was there to tell me, "Hey, Allison! That looks like you're sticking the hook in the wrong row!" (I was, see bear below.) Or, "Hey, you know you're crocheting that little octopus inside out??" (I was.)

But you know, after crocheting enough inside out octopuses and figuring out where the hook was actually supposed to go, I got it! I'm not claiming to be the authority on all things crochet by any means (hairpin lace, huh??), but I feel like I've figured out my niche. I watched enough youtube videos and photo tutorials that I finally got the hang of it.

Here's a photo of the first thing I ever actually crocheted and finished. A little blue bear. I think he's pretty cute. Imperfect, but cute. See how I was, um, "unconventional" with how I made single crochets?

My first attempt at amigurumi

I love that the most popular post I've ever done here is my beginner amigurumi pattern for Baby Monsters. That means lots of beginning crocheters are making some amigurumi! I get lots of questions about how to dress them up a little with feet like some of the ones in the photo. That's easy!

At the end of the last round, do not fasten off. Make 3 dc into the front loop only of the next 2 stitches, sl st into the next 4 stitches, 3 dc into the front loop only of the next 2 stitches, sl st into the next st, and fasten off. Feet!

Look! I have feet!

If you're a beginner, these are fun to make, but you'll want to move on, right? I think my book, AmiguruME: Make Cute Crochet People, is going to be a great book for all levels. I opted to include step by step photos in the how to section. I really focused on the adjustable ring method for crocheting in the round. I want everyone to learn it! I also made sure that all of the examples in the how-to section are made on "in the round" swatches. I think it makes a difference.

You can preorder my book from Amazon or Barnes and Noble, Amazon UK, Bookworld for Australian shoppers, as well as other places. I'm really excited about it, and I hope you will love it! I cannot wait to see people start posting their projects online. I want to see them all! The possibilities are endless so there won't be any two dolls exactly alike!

If you're planning on getting my book, what doll would you make first? A celebrity? Your kids? A gift for a teacher?

Life is too short for boring hooks

2013-03-29T16:35:00.000-05:00

A month ago I found the cutest thing. A crochet hook with a gnome on top. Yep.

My new crochet hook from The Lemonade Shop

Sure, I have lots of crochet hooks. I have metal ones, wooden ones, plastic ones, ergonomic-handled ones. Some were inherited, some were gifted to me, and some I bought.

But I don't have any hooks with gnomes on top! The sweetest girl, Heather Rhoads of The Lemondade Shop, sent me a crochet hook to try out. I chose this little guy but if you prefer hedgehogs or foxes, you'll find something you like. She even has Big Bang Theory stitch markers and Star Wars hooks, among others. I love the unicorn!

Gnome hook action shot!

If you find something you like, let me know in the comments below! Thanks Heather!

Doctor Who Patterns!

2013-01-29T09:40:00.003-06:00

They're done! At long last, or so it seemed to me, I've completed the patterns for my Doctor Who collection. All together, the PDF for the complete set is almost 100 pages, so get ready! I think you'll find them easy to follow, since that's the kind of pattern I like to read myself. They are listed individually in my Ravelry shop, and are able to be INSTANTLY downloaded (love that)! If you'd rather buy them on my Etsy shop, they are there too, with a special Modern Doctor set, including the Tardis!

Free Pattern: Harry Potter Sorting Hat!

2013-01-14T09:24:00.001-06:00

For a few years, my husband and I have been trying to get our oldest to start reading the Harry Potter series. I don't know if it was the size of the books, all the made up words, or the subject matter, but he just wasn't feeling it. He started Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone a couple of times but it never caught his interest.
A couple of months ago, that all changed. We gave him the first book again, and for some reason he was hooked. He read it quickly, followed by the second, and now he's almost done with the third. Yay! I love to get him interested in a series so it keeps him reading. (Moms you know what I mean, right?!)
So for Christmas he got all of the movies on DVD. We started watching them all in order and even our littler boys loved them.

Saturday morning my youngest little boy asked if he could paint a Santa hat brown. Odd request, sure, but I've heard stranger. He explained that it was going to be a Sorting Hat from Harry Potter. *Lightbulb* I suggested that instead of making a messy crusty mess, I'd crochet him one! Luckily it only took about an hour, maybe an hour and a half, and he had his own Sorting Hat!
Now you can make one! It goes pretty quickly. The first one I made with soft chenille yarn and an N hook. It worked great except it was a little floppy. I love the texture though, and the floppiness was easily remedied by lining the brim with brown felt. I stuffed the top of the hat too, and added a felt lining to the inside (because my son kept just yanking the stuffing out and it was driving me crazy!). Next I thought I'd experiment, so I made it again with double strands of standard worsted weight yarn (I used Vanna's Choice in Chocolate). It was definitely sturdier but not as stretchy I suppose. It didn't need to be lined or stuffed. You choose which way you want to do it!

Harry Potter inspired Sorting Hat

Materials:
Brown yarn (chenille or double stranded worsted)
Size N crochet hook
Yarn needle
Brown felt (optional)
Polyester fiberfill (optional)
Needle and thread (optional)

Abbreviations:
st - stitch
sc - single crochet
hdc - half double crochet
trc - triple crochet
sc2tog - single crochet 2 stitches together
FLO - crochet into the front loops only of each stitch

Techniques:
Adjustable ring - Make a ring, insert hook into front of ring and pull up loop through to front of ring, chain one stitch, sc into ring as directed in pattern, pull tail gently to close ring

Note:
Numbers in () indicate number of stitches at the end of that round.
Pattern is worked in unjoined spirals.
Use a locking stitch marker to keep track of rounds. At the end of each round, move marker to loop on your hook.

Pattern:
Rnd 1: Starting at top of hat with N hook, make an adjustable ring, ch 1, sc 3 into ring. Pull closed (3 sts)
Rnd 2: Work 2 sc into each st (6 sts)
Rnds 3-5: Sc in each st.
Rnd 6: 2 Sc in next st, sc in each st around (7 sts)
Rnd 7: Sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 3 sts (8 sts)
Rnd 8: *(2 Sc in next st, sc in next 3 sts), rep from * around (10 sts)
Rnd 9: *(Sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 2 sts), rep from * around (12 sts)
Rnd 10: *(Sc in next st, 2 sc in next st), rep from * around (18 sts)
Rnds 11-12: Sc in each st.
Rnd 13: *(2 Sc in next st, sc in next 8 sts), rep from * around (20 sts)
Rnd 14: Sc in each st.
Rnd 15: *(Sc in next 4 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 5 sts), rep from * around (22 sts)
Rnd 16: Sc in each st.
Rnd 17: *(2 Sc in next st, sc in next 10 sts), rep from * around (24 sts)
Rnd 18: Sc in next 8 sts, 2 trc in next 4 sts, hdc in next 4 sts, 2 trc in next 4 sts, sc in next 4 sts (32 sts)
Rnd 19: Sc in next 8 sts, sc2tog 4 times, sc in next 4 sts, sc2tog 4 times, sc in next 4 sts (24 sts)
Rnd 20: *(Sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 4 sts), rep from * around (27 sts)
Rnd 21: *(Sc in next 8 sts, 2 sc in next st), rep from * around (30 sts)
Rnd 22: Sc in each st.
Rnd 23: Sc in next 14 sts, 2 hdc in next 10 sts, sc in next 6 sts (40 sts)
Rnd 24: Sc in next 14 sts, hdc in next 20 sts, sc in next 6 sts (40 sts)
Rnd 25: Sc in next 14 sts, sc2tog 10 times, sc in next 6 sts (30 sts)
Rnd 26: *(Sc in next 9 sts, 2 sc in next st), rep from * around (33 sts)
Rnd 27: *(Sc in next 5 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 5 sts), rep from * around (36 sts)
Rnd 28: *(2 Sc in next st, sc in next 11 sts), rep from * around (39 sts)
Rnd 29: *(Sc in next 12 sts, 2 sc in next st), rep from * around (42 sts)
Rnd 30: Sc in each st.

* To make a larger hat, continue increasing by 3 sts per round until the hat reaches the size you want. Continue on as instructed below, adjusting stitch counts for each row.

Rnd 31: Working in FLO of each st, *(2 sc in next st, sc in next 6 sts), rep from * around (48)
Rnd 32: Working in both loops of each st, *(Sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 4 sts), rep from * around (54 sts)
Rnd 33: *(Sc in next 8 sts, 2 sc in next st), rep from * around (60 sts)
Rnd 34: *(2 sc in next st, sc in next 9 sts), rep from * around (66 sts)
Rnd 35: *(Sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 7 sts), rep from * around (72 sts)
Rnd 36: *(Sc in next 10 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next st), rep from * around (78 sts)
Rnd 37: *(2 sc in next st, sc in next 12 sts), rep from * around (84 sts)
Fasten off and weave in ends.

Finishing:
Thread a yarn needle with a long strand of the brown yarn you are using. Knot the end. Push the mouth made in Rnds 23-25 to the inside. Weave the yarn from the bottom of the hat, up through the mouth, securing it to the inside. Stitch both sides of the mouth the same way so that it stays to the inside of the hat, then come up between the eyes created in Rnds 18-19, and back down towards the mouth, pulling tightly so that it makes the center of the eyes tilt downward slightly for the Sorting Hat's grumpy expression. Pull the yarn tightly and knot to the inside of the hat, and weave in end.

For a stiffer brim, overlap rounded strips of brown felt over the inside of the brim and pin into place. Trim edges to line up with the crocheted edge of the brim. Use brown thread to stitch the felt into place on the edge and inner edge of the brim.

If your hat is too floppy on top, insert polyester fiberfill. Cut a circle of felt to fit inside just underneath the eyes of the hat. Stitch into place with brown thread. Make sure not to put the felt circle too low or the hat won't fit onto a head.

Now get to sorting!

Doctor Who Collection Completion!

2012-12-28T11:11:00.000-06:00

So after months of preparation and weeks and weeks of work, I finally finished the set of Doctor Who dolls and Tardis I was commissioned to make! I really truly enjoyed making these guys and I swear, I almost teared up when I packed them all up and shipped them to Washington state. There is a lucky husband out there with a wife who loves him (and Doctor Who) a lot!

I posted before about the previous doctors I've finished, but I'll go ahead and show them all in order and then show off the massive Tardis they can fit inside!

First Doctor, 1963-66, William Hartnell

Second Doctor, 1966-69, Patrick Troughton

Third Doctor, 1970-74, Jon Pertwee

Fourth Doctor, 1974-81, Tom Baker

Fifth Doctor, 1981-84, Peter Davison

Sixth Doctor, 1984-86, Colin Baker

Seventh Doctor, 1987-89, Sylvester McCoy

Eighth Doctor, 1996, Paul McGann

Ninth Doctor, 2005, Christopher Eccleston

Tenth Doctor, 2005-2010, David Tennant

Eleventh Doctor, 2010-present, Matt Smith

Tardis and Tenth Doctor

Eleven Doctors and the Tardis

Fourth Doctor and the Tardis

Eleven Doctors and the Tardis

Tenth Doctor and his sonic screwdriver with the Tardis

What do you think? I LOVED MAKING THEM! Yes! I did! It was a ton of work, but gee, they were fun. So guess what? The patterns will be released in January and right now you can preorder all 12 patterns as a set in my Etsy shop! CLICK HERE!

More Doctors and Patterns for Presale!

2012-12-07T12:30:00.001-06:00

So this post will be mostly pictures, just so you know. I'm a little swamped right now with finishing these doctors and some other orders, so kindly bear with me for the lack of posts and other cool stuff. I promise you, in the new year there are some really great things coming, including free patterns I've already been writing! Yay!

So I've gotten a little further on my big set of Doctor Who dolls, and have now offered the patterns at a special price as a presale. That means that right now, before they are officially released, the patterns of eleven doctors and a Tardis are available on my etsy shop as a presale item. They will be ready the week of January 21st, when I will email the set of PDFs to each person who has ordered them. Click HERE to order them!

I've finished a few more doctors. Have a look!

the Third Doctor, Jon Pertwee

The Sixth Doctor, Colin Baker

Doctors One through Six, plus Eleven

Doctor Who Amigurumi

2012-10-07T11:35:00.002-05:00

If you follow me on Facebook or Twitter, you probably know I've been working on a huge custom set of dolls lately. It's a set of twelve amigurumi (eleven doctors and a Tardis!) that a lucky Doctor Who fan is getting for Christmas. Do you watch the cult favorite sci-fi show Doctor Who? It has kind of a HUGE following here in the states and across the pond. Who knew? Ha.

I started with the First Doctor, then made the Second. I was waiting for some yarn I ordered to come in to make the Third, so I skipped to the current incarnation (Eleven). That yarn still hadn't come in so I backtracked to the ever-popular and much-beloved Fourth Doctor, and just finished the Fifth a couple of days ago.

In case you missed them:

The First Doctor -- William Hartnell "Doctor Who"

The First Doctor and the First Doctor amigurumi

The Second Doctor -- Patrick Troughton "Doctor Who"

The Second Doctor and the Second Doctor amigurumi

The Fourth Doctor -- Tom Baker "Doctor Who"

The Fourth Doctor and the Fourth Doctor amigurumi

The Fifth Doctor -- Peter Davison "Doctor Who"

The Fifth Doctor and the Fifth Doctor amigurumi

The Eleventh Doctor -- Matt Smith "Doctor Who"

The Eleventh Doctor and the Eleventh Doctor amigurumi

What do you think? Are you a Whovian too? Which Doctor is your favorite?

Patterns will be made available in the near future! Remember to follow me on Facebook and Twitter for updates about new pattern releases! Must...finish...doctors....

Back to School and Back to Stitching!

2012-09-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

This year, all three of my kids, for the first time, are in school. The littlest started kindergarten and we're all still trying to get used to it. I miss my little friends at home! The upside, of course, is that I have more time to do things at home. Working moms and stay at home moms alike, I'm sure, welcome that "Back to School" season when they can start getting just a little more time to work on a few projects.

Some projects you could actually do while your kids are at school and finish by the time you drive to pick them up or before they hop off the bus! I kid you not. How about greeting your kids with an afterschool snack AND an afterschool plushie?

Using my Baby Monster pattern, I was able to whip up three monsters in just a couple of hours. I used the exact same pattern and look at the results I got!

Worsted, Bulky, Double Bulky!

My Baby Monster pattern was written to make little pocket-sized monsters, but I wanted to experiment with using chunky yarn and bigger hooks.

Let's take a look at what I decided to use.

From the top: Bernat Sheep(ish) by Vickie Howell and a D hook, Bernat Softee Chunky and an N hook,
double strands of Bernat Softee Chunky and a Q hook

I used my original pattern, reprinted below, adding feet to a couple of them, but keeping the rest of the pattern the same. I used felt for the biggest monster's eyes.

Baby Monster by CraftyisCool

Head/Body:

Starting at the top of the monster’s head, with desired yarn and an corresponding hook (see above), make an adjustable ring, chain (ch) 1, and single crochet (sc) 6 stitches into the ring. Pull the ring closed with the loose yarn tail.
R1 (Row or Round 1): 2sc into each st (12)
R2: (2sc into next st, sc into next st)* rep around (18)
R3: (sc into next st, 2sc into next st, sc into next st)* rep around (24)
R4-12: sc into each st (24)
Fasten off OR continue on to make feet.

Optional Feet:
R13: (Hdc, 2 dc) into next st, (2 dc, hdc) into next st, sl st into next 5, (hdc, 2 dc) into next st, (2 dc, hdc) into next st, sl st into next st
Fasten off. Set aside.

Base:
Make an adjustable ring, chain (ch) 1, and single crochet (sc) 6 stitches into the ring. Pull the ring closed.
R1: 2 sc into each st (12)
R2: (2 sc into next st, sc into next st)* rep to end of rnd (18)
R3: (sc into next st, 2sc into next st, sc into next st)* rep to end of rnd (24)
Fasten off, leaving a long tail.

Finishing:
Insert safety eyes if desired, following package directions. For a child-friendly toy, use a safe fabric glue and arrange felt shapes to create the features. Stitch a smile with black yarn and a yarn needle.

Line up the stitches from the base with the stitches of the bottom row of the body and begin sewing them together, stitch to stitch. Stuff the body fully before closing up the last few stitches and tucking the end inside.

Using a regular D hook and worsted weight yarn gives you a cute little monster that would be adorable as a keychain (just add a loop of elastic and keyring to the top).

Worsted weight Bernat Sheep(ish) by Vickie Howell and a D hook

Upsizing to a larger hook and chunky yarn makes a bigger monster that's just as cute but more huggable.

Bulky weight Bernat Softee Chunky and an N hook

Using the largest hook I had, a Q, and double stranding the chunky yarn, I got an awesomely chubby and squeezable stuffed monster! Hold two strands together while you crochet, following the same pattern, and use a really big hook. What a difference!

Double stranded Bernat Softee Chunky and a Q hook

Although it takes a little getting used to, crocheting with a large hook and thick yarn can even be used in amigurumi! Who knew? As always, it is best to keep your stitches as tight as possible, even with the huge hook and yarn, because big holes in your fabric will mean stuffing showing and coming through.

With all of the available colors of Bernat's Softee Chunky (which has recently gotten even more chunky, by the way) I foresee a rainbow of big chunky Baby Monsters decorating children's playrooms, teachers' classrooms, and Halloween mantles everywhere! Of course if you still love the little ones, Vickie Howell's Sheep(ish) and its trendy color range is where you will definitely find some inspiration.

Lovin' his new chunky Baby Monster!

Doctor Who?

2012-09-07T11:57:00.000-05:00

I love taking custom orders. Let me rephrase that. I LOVE TAKING CUSTOM ORDERS. Making something from one of my patterns is fun, and of course its easier, but making something based on someone's photo or someone's big idea is really rewarding.
Several months ago I got a request to make a full set of Doctor Who amigurumi, including all eleven doctors and a Tardis. They are to be a Christmas present and I have been getting to work on them lately. I never knew what a huge following Doctor Who has! My best source of information has been from cosplay instructions. That is, very specific costuming instructions for Doctor Who doctors, down to the most minute details. I love this series of articles on BBC America, starting with How To Dress Like The First Doctor | Anglophenia | BBC America. Each Doctor has specific characteristics, which of course lend themselves perfectly to the type of amigurumi I like to do!

I made one so far and the next is in progress...

Gentlemen. First Doctor "Doctor Who" amigurumi

Doctor Who?! First Doctor "Doctor Who" amigurumi

I'm thinking I'll go chronologically, so the Second Doctor will be next. If you just can't wait to see the 10th and 11th Doctors (I know you!) it won't be too long. Remember, these are due by Christmas!

If you're thinking about putting in an order for Christmas or the Holidays, please get that in as soon as possible. I won't be able to take all the requests I get so let me know as soon as you can. Thanks!

Make sure you're keeping up with this and other projects over on my Facebook page, where I post lots of pictures and sneak peeks. Thanks for following!

CraftyisCool Mini Series!

2012-07-31T14:48:00.000-05:00

In the interest of saving time, checking things off my to-do list, and branching out into "simpler" territory, I decided to design a new series of dolls, the CraftyisCool Minis! Don't get me wrong. I really prefer making larger dolls like I've always done because of all the little details I can fit in. It's not that they are even all that large, but they do have more parts and take a little more time than your average Amigurumi Monster.

It was about a week before the new season of Breaking Bad premiered and I had really wanted to make a set of Walter White and Jesse Pinkman to celebrate it. I didn't think I'd have time to make the dolls, write the pattern, proofread the pattern, and then publish it before the show premiered. I decided to shrink my normal design into a cute little version, about 4" tall.

Breaking Bad Amigurumi Minis

Little Walt and Jesse each have a hat, hazmat jumpsuit and tiny bag of crystal. I wrote a pattern to combine the two dolls, and really, they don't take too long to make. The doll is mostly one piece from head to foot, with added arms. Lots of little details added make them recognizable, I think.

Where's my gas mask?!

In his underwear, yo!

The blue stuff!

I was lucky enough that BoingBoing did a piece on the dolls and word got around. I'd love to hear from Bryan Cranston and/or Aaron Paul and send them their own sets! (So hey, anyone reading that can make that happen, yeah that would be awesome... ;) )

Not long after I made the Breaking Bad dolls, my husband and I went to see Wes Anderson's Moonrise Kingdom. LOVED. I've always been a fan of Wes Anderson movies. A friend of mine and I used to ask potential dates if they liked the movie Rushmore. It was a gauge of how compatible we were with that person. If he said, "Love it!", check! If he said "Never seen it!", potential was still there. If he said, "I don't get it!/Not funny!", deal breaker! In hindsight I guess that was pretty shallow, but it was a pretty good test! My friend's potential partner hadn't ever seen it so we scheduled a "screening." The whole time he just had this puzzled "huh?" look on his face. It didn't work out between them.

During Moonrise Kingdom there is a scene where the two leads, Suzy and Sam, get married and walk in slow motion out of a little chapel. As they were walking I leaned over and told my husband (sorry for talking during the movie, Alamo!), "I have to make dolls of them!" The next day I made these little guys.

Moonrise Kingdom Amigurumi Minis

If you've seen the movie, you'll recognize Suzy's blue eyeshadow and portable record player and Sam's coonskin cap and glasses. Suzy's record player snaps open and the record is removable. Sam is wearing his late mother's pearl and gold brooch and a felt raccoon Khaki Scout badge.

Sam and his badges

Suzy, record player and binoculars

What I love about these Minis is the quick turnaround time, the fewer pieces to assemble, and their overall cute factor. It enables me to do something trendy and of-the-moment without investing a huge chunk of time (a few days from start to finish, pattern and all, versus up to two weeks for larger dolls and patterns). I'm not sure who will be next in this Mini-series. Any suggestions? I'd love to hear them!

I'm Sew Nerdy!

2012-06-20T13:06:00.001-05:00

You know I have this thing for Pee-wee, right? Pee-wee's Big Adventure, Pee-wee's Playhouse, Pee-wee on Broadway, Pee-wee toys, whatever, anything Pee-wee related and I'm all over it. And I'm not alone! For Christmas a couple of years ago, my husband bought a brand new unopened Pee-wee's Playhouse Playset, along with a set of all the figures to go with it. My three little boys love Pee-wee, so it was an excuse to own something we'd both always wanted! It's well-loved.

This.

When Bear and Bird Gallery invited me to be in their show, Sew Nerdy, I knew I was going in a Pee-wee direction. Last year I was in their Stitch Wars Strikes Back show and made a huge Salacious Crumb. I loved that thing. This year I went big again, and made a life-size working Clocky! His clock functions (with one AA battery) and those numbers signify a very important person's birthday! Yes, Pee-wee's alter ego Paul Reubens will turn the big 6-0 this year.

Life-size working Clocky!

To go along with Clocky, I made a Pee-wee, a Miss Yvonne, and a tiny Pterri. Pee-wee and Miss Yvonne have magnets in their arms so they can hold hands. I just hope I made Miss Yvonne's hair big enough to make her proud! Hopefully patterns will be coming for these two real soon. Make sure you're a fan on Facebook to keep up.

Miss Yvonne, Pterri, and Pee-wee

Friends Forever

Pterri the Pterodactyl Amigurumi

The Sew Nerdy show will be from June 30th through August 11th in Lauderhill, Florida. All of the pieces will be for sale at the gallery and online.

Crochet Today!

2012-06-04T15:40:00.003-05:00

Is this thing on...? Sorry, it's just been a little while since I've blogged! There's a reason, I promise! I'm nearing the end of a long journey I've been on. You know, just writing a book. The writing part was the hardest, I think. Making sure everything makes sense, is put together in an easy to follow format, and gets my point across at all--that's tough! So now I'm almost done with the fun part: crocheting up all the stuff that's going to be in the book! I can't WAIT for you all to see. I've posted a few sneak peeks over on the Crafty is Cool Facebook page. Have you seen them?

The main reason I wanted to check in here is because something happened this month that I just can't believe! There's a full page article all about my work in the July/August issue of Crochet Today! I'm beyond proud. The awesome writer of the article did a great job. Thank you LeeAnne Jones!

Crochet Today July/August 2012

If you haven't seen it yet, you won't be disappointed. Crochet Today always has a fun mix of wearables, home stuff, and toys, and this month is no exception! I've bought a couple of copies at Wal-mart, and plan on buying several more when it hits newsstands at Jo-ann's right up the street.
Bear with me over the next couple of weeks as I get down to my deadline. I'm loving every busy, crazy, stressful, yarn-filled moment!

My Latest Projects

2012-03-27T17:52:00.001-05:00

Since my last post I've been pretty productive, so I wanted to show you some things I've been working on!
This is a photo-intense post, so get ready...

I made this doll of a birthday girl and her pet cat, including a little kitty hat her mom had made her! She had a little removable tie-front cardigan with tiny flowers on one lapel. Word is, she loved it!

I got an order for two pets for someone's birthday. The first was a bulldog, who is ADORABLE, and the second I haven't finished yet, a Boston Terrier. I got to deliver this one in person, a rare treat, and she loved him.

Next up, a doll I made for a well-known bartender that works at the hottest bar/live music venue here in Austin, the Mohawk. He's got a famous beard and is into Jiu-Jitsu. I made one doll for the Mohawk, and two dolls in Jiu-Jitsu outfits for his twin daughters. I sewed his little Western shirt out of an old one I had. His t-shirt has a Mohawk logo iron-on. Nice beard, right??

Someone you might recognize, Questlove, or DJ Questo, of The Roots, also known as Jimmy Fallon's house band. I loved making him. I made him a little hair pick out of glittery black Sculpey clay, drumsticks that I carved from a long wooden dowel, and little red hoodie. I was able to go to The Roots' show at the Mohawk during SXSW and hand-deliver the doll to Questlove himself! He loved him and told me it was the most beautiful thing anyone had ever given him! I was thrilled.

Last up is a project I actually did almost a year ago, but just got this picture! My husband wrote to the people at Rancho Obi-wan, Steve Sansweet's mecca of Star Wars collectibles. He has the largest Star Wars collection in the world and has worked for Lucasfilm and written several books about Star Wars. He was kind enough to pose with my Salacious Crumb, which I sold in the Stitch Wars Strikes Back show last summer. Awesome, right?

I'll post some more finished projects soon. I'm working on a really large order this week and then continuing work on my book. This summer I should be more able to take custom orders, my FAVORITE thing to do! Thanks for reading!

Inca Eco from Galler Yarns Review/Blog Tour

2012-03-22T00:50:00.000-05:00

One of the greatest things about what I do has to be getting new yarn. If you crochet or knit, you know exactly what I mean. You pick it up, squeeze it, smell it (don't lie, I know you do), and feel the strands, thinking HARD about what you can make so that you'll have an excuse to buy at least two skeins. We've all been there.

When I got this new Inca Eco yarn from Galler Yarns, I couldn't put it down. It's 100% cotton, which usually means stiff yarn that rubs my hands raw when I'm crocheting. I don't know how they did it, but this yarn is amazingly soft. I hand wound it into a ball and it was a pleasure. Seriously. I almost NEVER work with 100% cotton because of how it is to crochet, but I was in heaven working with this yarn.

I got Lavender, one of 15 colors, dyed with eco-friendly low environmental impact dyes. The other colors include Ecru, Butter, Sage, Blue Stone, Blossom, Rose, Aloe, Aqua, Denim, Espresso, Wine, Raspberry, Navy, Black. It comes in 100 gram/140 yd skeins and is a thick/thin textured yarn with beautiful stitch definition.

The pattern I chose for this yarn in this delicious color had to be for Spring. I had been wanting to make these cute little "Lady Mitts" from Becky Joiner for a while now, and I thought they'd be great for the "cool in the morning, warm in the afternoon, cool in the evening" weather we get this time of year.

The only changes I made to the pattern were the number of rows and the edging. Since Inca Eco is thick and thin, it works up a little bulkier so I did a reverse single crochet edging all along the top edge instead of the picot edging Becky designed.

What do you think? Cute little Spring accessory, right? Thanks Galler Yarns for letting me try this beautiful yarn!

This post is part of a 15 day blog tour, so make sure you visit these blogs over the next several days!

Monday, March 19 - Day 1 - In the Loop in Norfolk, MA (shop website)

Tuesday, March 20 - Day 2 - Knit Purl Gurl

Wednesday, March 21 - Day 3 - FreshStitches

Thursday, March 22 - Day 4 - Crafty Is Cool

Friday, March 23 - Day 5 - Cute Crochet Chat

Saturday, March 24 - Day 6 - Redshirt Knitting

Sunday, March 25 - Day 7 - CraftSanity

Monday, March 26 - Day 8 - Craft Gossip with JD Wolfe

Tuesday, March 27 - Day 9 - Crafting a Green World with Julie Finn

Wednesday, March 28 - Day 10 - Crazy for Ewe in Leonardtown and La Plaza, MD (shop website)

Thursday, March 29 - Day 11 - Crochet Concupiscence

Friday, March 30 - Day 12 - KRW Knitwear Studio

Saturday, March 31 - Day 13 - About.com with Sarah E. White
Sunday, April 1 - Day 14 - Underground Crafter
Monday, April 2 - Day 15 - Monarch Knitting and Quilts in Pacific Grove, CA (shop website)

Galler Yarns is also going to be posting free patterns for Inca Eco on their blog every Friday during the tour, so check back there tomorrow. Check here to see if there's a store near you stocking Galler Yarns. Here's a link to all the info you need on this lovely new yarn!

Have any of you used Galler Yarns before? What would you make with this yarn?

Matthew wants you to win!

2012-03-07T17:03:00.001-06:00

Matthew McConaughey came over again.

Little amigurumi Matthew McConaughey is back with some interesting news.

He already talked with Austin Eavesdropper about the Top 10 Things to do in Austin. Now he has the scoop on a contest that is running here in Austin for SXSW. It's pretty serious too, since the grand prize is $5,000 and all you have to do is stroll around downtown scanning QR codes to get the cash!

Citysearch recently appointed me a local Austin scout, which means I'll be writing reviews and suggestions on my favorite (and not favorite) things here in Austin over on the Citysearch site, starting with SXSW, of course. I'll be on hand, along with lots of the other Citysearch scouts (a real who's who of Austin bloggers and who I feel lucky to hang out with!), to help run this pretty sweet scavenger hunt this weekend. Matthew will be with us, just helping out and serenading us with the heavenly intonations of his bongo.

Stores around the downtown Austin area will have cute little signs like this in the window.

When you see little Sid E. Serch, just scan the QR code on the sign and follow the instructions. There will even be instant win prizes when you scan these codes, like $300 on the spot! You don't have to aimlessly wonder, looking for codes. There will be a list of hints so you can expertly navigate your way around and win that money!

Want some more details? Follow this link for all the details from Citysearch and Sid E. Serch.

Remember! The codes won't go live until Friday, March 9th at 7:00 pm central. You'll have until Sunday to find all the codes you can to get the most points.

I'll leave you all with a candid shot I took while Matthew was practicing his yoga this morning. He's so uninhibited, isn't he?

Why I crocheted a naked Matthew McConaughey doll...

2012-03-05T06:18:00.000-06:00

This hilarious interview is brought to you by Citysearch and Austin Eavesdropper, with the help of my hook, yarn, and lots and LOTS of research on Matthew McConaughey via Google image search. Tough work. ;) Enjoy!

Top Ten Things to Do in Austin from Austin Eavesdropper on Vimeo.

I hope you all know Austin's favorite shirtless resident, Matthew McConaughey and his notorious bongo skills. Turns out he has a lot of questions about fun things to do in Austin for SXSW too. Check out that cute little crocheted bootie!

Say, man. You got another bongo? It'd be a lot cooler if you did.

All right, all right, all right!

Just keep livin. L-I-V-I-N.

Almost as cute as the crocheted one... ;)

Free Pattern Friday! Dr. Suess' Sneetch

2012-03-02T15:36:00.003-06:00

We have shelves and shelves of kids' books. I'm kind of a hoarder in that regard. I love going to Goodwill or the Salvation Army store and picking up armloads for 50 cents each. If you looked through our books about 75% would have a thrift store price tag on them. I try to get my kids to pick a different book every night, but you can only read a Spongebob beginning reader book so many times before you want to put it through a shredder. Dora the Explorer books and books based on kids' movies, the same. When you read a really good children's book, however, you don't mind when your kid asks for it for the 5th time that week. Take the Sneetches, for example. Does my five year old understand that its a story about non-conformity and prejudice? Probably not. But he does think that Sylvester McMonkey McBean is pretty kooky. He likes to see them all pay "ten dollars eaches" and have those stars disappear and come back again in his amazing machine. But I have a feeling that when he's reading the story about bellies with stars and others with "none upon thars", he'll grow up with a little more of an open mind. Its what Dr. Suess would have wanted.

Before you get started, some inspiration. If you haven't watched this before, I encourage you to take a minute now, because it is just plain awesome. The catchy 70s music will eat you up!

This crocheted amigurumi sneetch is easy to make and fun to play with. His belly star is attached with velcro so he can take it off and put it back on again. He'll be invited to all the marshmallow toasts and frankfurter roasts that way.

Sneetch:

You will need:

Materials:
Yellow worsted weight yarn
Gray worsted weight yarn
White fuzzy yarn (baby or "cloud" yarn)
White felt
Green felt
6mm black safety eyes
Black embroidery floss
Small piece of velcro, just the "hook" side, sew-on type

Tools:
Size E crochet hook
Yarn needle
Embroidery needle

Body:
Rnd 1: Starting at the bottom of the body with yellow yarn, make an adjustable ring, ch 1, and sc 6 into the ring. Pull tail tightly to close hole. (6)
Rnd 2: Work 2 sc into each st (12)
Rnd 3: (2 sc into next st, sc into next st)* repeat around (18)
Rnd 4: (2 sc into next st, sc into next 2 st)* rep around (24)
Rnd 5: (2 sc into next st, sc into next 3 st)* rep around (30)
Rnd 6-9: Sc into each st (30)
Rnd 10: (Sc2tog, sc into next 8 st)* rep around (27)
Rnd 11: Sc into each st (27)
Rnd 12: (Sc2tog, sc into next 7 st)* rep around (24)
Rnd 13: Sc into each st (24)
Rnd 14: (Sc2tog, sc into next 6 st)* rep around (21)
Rnd 15: (Sc2tog, sc into next 5 st)* rep around (18)
Rnd 16: (Sc2tog, sc into next 4 st)* rep around (15)
Rnd 17: (Sc2tog, sc into next 3 st)* rep around (12)
Rnd 18: (Sc2tog, sc into next 4 st)* rep around (10)
Rnd 19-21: Sc into each st (10)
* Insert stuffing into the larger bottom part of the body before you proceed with the neck (or you'll be sorry)!
Rnd 22: Sc2tog, sc into next 8 (9)
Rnd 23: Sc into each st (9)
*Change to gray yarn at last st of Rnd 23.
Rnd 24: Sc into each st (9)
*Change to yellow yarn at last st of Rnd 24.
Rnd 25-26: Sc into each st (9)
*Change to gray yarn at last st of Rnd 26.
Rnd 27: Sc into each st (9)
*Change to yellow yarn at last st of Rnd 27. You can cut the gray yarn. Work the next few stitches over the end to secure.
Rnd 28: Sc into each st (9)
Fasten off and cut tail short. Stuff the neck and set aside.

Head:
Rnd 1: Starting at the nose end of the head with yellow yarn, make an adjustable ring, ch 1, and sc 4 into the ring. Pull tail tightly to close hole. (4)
Rnd 2: Sc into each st (4)
Rnd 3: (2 Sc into next st, sc into next st)* rep to end (6)
Rnd 4: Sc into each st (6)
Rnd 5: (2 Sc into next st, sc into next 2 st)* rep to end (8)
Rnd 6: Sc into each st (8)
Rnd 7: (2 Sc into next st, sc into next st)* rep to end (12)
Rnd 8: (2 Sc into next st, sc into next 2 st)* rep to end (15)
Rnd 9-10: Sc into next 5 st, hdc into next 5 st, sc into next 5 st (15)
Rnd 11: Sc into next 5 st, hdc into next st, dc into next 3 st, hdc into next st, sc into next 5 st (15)
Rnd 12: (Sc2tog, sc into next 3 st)* rep to end (12)
*Cut tiny ovals from white felt. Cut a slit in each oval and insert the eye, then insert the eye into the face as shown, and attach washer on the inside. Stuff the head.
Rnd 13: Sc2tog around (6)
Fasten off and leave a long tail. Weave tail through last row of stitches to close hole, then down through bottom of head. Sew onto body and weave in ends.

Arm (Make 2):

Rnd 1: Starting at the shoulder with yellow yarn, make an adjustable ring, ch 1, and sc 5 into the ring. Pull tail tightly to close hole. (5)

Rnd 2-8: Sc into each st (5)

Rnd 9: 2 Sc into next st, sc into each st (6)

Rnd 10: Sc into each st (6)

Row 11: Ch 1, and fold the arm flat. Working through both layers of the arm, sc across the end 3. This closes the arm. It does not need to be stuffed. Turn and work the next row across the top. (3)

Row 12: (Ch 3, sc into 2nd ch from hook and next ch, then sl st into next st)* rep across for three fingers.

Fasten off with a sl st and sew arms to body.

Leg (Make 2)

Rnd 1: Starting at the toe end of the foot with yellow yarn, make an adjustable ring, ch 1, and sc 3 into the ring. Pull tail tightly to close hole. (3)

Rnd 2: 2 Sc into next st, sc into each st (4)

Rnd 3: 2 Sc into next st, sc into each st (5)

Rnd 4: Sc into each st (5)

Rnd 5: 2 Sc into next st, sc into each st (6)

Rnd 6: Sc into each st (6)

Rnd 7-8: Dc into next 3 st, sl st into next 3 st (6)

*This forms the heel.

Rnd 9-13: Sc into each st (6)

Rnd 14: Sc into next 4 st, sc2tog (5)

Fasten off and sew to bottom of body as shown. No stuffing is necessary.

Finishing:

White mane:

Cut four inch long strands of white fuzzy yarn. Insert hook into a stitch around the neck just above where the arms are attached, and pull up a loop of the white yarn. Pull ends through loop to fasten to neck. Do this all the way around the neck twice. Try to keep strands close together. When you're finished, trim the strands as shown.

Face:

Using black embroidery floss, embroider a straight vertical stitch for the smile on one cheek, then a line all the way across (using three even horizontal straight stitches), then another short vertical line on the other cheek. Do not cut floss. On last stitch, insert the needle back into the head, and come out at the very top of the head through the yarn (do not come up through a "hole" in the stitches or the floss will not be secured). Knot the embroidery floss close to the surface and cut it about 1/2" long for the Sneetch's hair.

Star:

Cut a star from two layers of green felt. On one of the pieces, sew a tiny patch of velcro with the rough hook side. Using the same green thread, sew the layers together with a whipstitch close to the edge. The rough velcro will stick to your Sneetch's belly. You may need to periodically trim the fuzz that may come up from removing and applying the star.

Hope you have fun making your own little Sneetch. What a great baby shower or birthday gift it would be to give Dr. Suess' amazing book with your own handmade little Sneetch! If you make one, I'd love to see a picture of him! Post him to the Ravelry page or on CraftyisCool on Facebook.

Happy birthday, Dr. Suess!

When I wasn't crocheting...

2012-02-17T18:22:00.002-06:00

Something I don't get much of a chance to talk about: living in this beautiful city! I feel really blessed that my parents decided to move to central Texas before I was born!

Speaking of Austin, and crafts, my husband and I went to the grand opening of a new craft brewery here in South Austin (yes, that's capitalized because it's a separate town to us Southies) called South Austin Brewing Company. My husband's workplace is neighbors with the place and he'd met the guys that run it. We had no idea it was the hot ticket last weekend! We drove up and were astounded at the crowd! Our favorite tex-mex was nearby so we just drove over there and had some drinks. You know, to get ready to drink (ha).

Trudy's on Little Texas Lane is our favorite place for a Mexican Martini. We got a couple and some Tinga nachos. If we were staying for a full meal, I'm sure one of us would have ordered the Stuffed Avocado (pictured here). After that, my favorite dessert in ALL of Austin. Well, one of my favorites (I'm a dessert girl; aren't we all?!). The brownie a la mode. It's got a layer of cream cheese, fudge icing, and is topped with Amy's Mexican Vanilla ice cream, THE best vanilla ice cream you'll ever have. Yum. (I promise this is not an ad for Trudy's!)

We headed back to the brewery and it had slowed down a little. We were able to drive in and park at my husband's shop and head over. The crowd was still huge.

The inside of the place was really cool. I'd never been inside a brewery, but the first thing I thought of was Breaking Bad. It really looked like Walt and Jesse's underground meth lab! Just sayin'...

They were sampling two kinds of beer, a Belgian Style Gold Ale, and Saison D'Austin, which were both fantastic! They gave us each three tickets which would have meant three glasses of beer, but that would have put me on the floor. It was pretty strong, but yummy! There was a live band, The Everydudes, and the place was PACKED. It was really interesting to see what a diverse crowd showed up, all in the name of supporting a new local business. Hooray! As soon as the beer gets in the bottle, we will be buying some for sure.

BEER!

So craft beer can count as crafts, right? What other crafts do y'all like? Craft beer? Craftsman tools? Kraft macaroni and cheese? Minecraft?

Oh and speaking of CRAFT, CONGRATULATIONS to Rachel Hobson, of Average Jane Crafter, who was just named Editor in Chief of Craft and who absolutely ROCKS. Her writing, embroidery, eye for awesomeness, wit, all of it combined into one really cool girl put in charge of an already amazing site. Can't wait to see what she does with it!

Magic Screen for Pee-wee's Playhouse

2012-02-13T07:00:00.003-06:00

Magic Screen Amigurumi from Pee-wee's Playhouse

Last year when I made Pee-wee and Chairry, and eventually Jambi, I drew a sketch in my notebook of a Magic Screen amigurumi. It didn't seem doable at the time. I didn't know how I would do the legs and everything I thought of seemed really cheesy looking (and the entire screen could not be held up by pipe cleaners!) so I kind of abandoned the idea. (I love that story!)
More digging around at the craft store revealed several non-conventional items that I could use to make Magic Screen, so the project was a go. I made her last night and I couldn't be happier!

Magic Screen with interchangeable screen

More photos after the jump!

My original big idea was to have her act as sort of a picture frame, where I could change out what was on her "screen". I wanted to be able to put pictures, patterned holographic paper, or little messages inside. It worked out brilliantly! Little Magic Screen could even play "connect the dots" if I could find a clear enough image for her! (And there is an awesome picture of Pee-wee and Magic Screen's cousin Magic Johnson that I'm going to have to print out...)

When you try out the pattern (which is now in my Ravelry and Craftsy shops) you'll probably like how there is not too much to crochet. It goes really fast! The rest of it is getting creative with craft supplies, so what's not to love?
This Magic Screen is on its way to Pee-wee himself! Au revoir Magic Screen!

Have a Heart!

2012-02-09T11:27:00.003-06:00

You know what I'm going to do? I'm going to start blogging every day! OK Let's start at every OTHER day. I know blogs are way more interesting when there is new content more frequently and that is my goal.
So for today's post, I want to tell you about a class I'm teaching this weekend at The Knitting Nest in Austin. It should be pretty fun, really easy, and you will go home with probably several projects!

If you're a mom, I KNOW you are busy. Working moms feel like they don't have enough time at home and stay at home moms feel like they are being pulled in all directions all the time too! As women we are caretakers, maids, chefs, frugal shoppers (me! me!), school liaisons, and if we are lucky, we like to do fun things for ourselves.

This Saturday, indulge your crafty side and your mommy side. I'm teaching a crochet class to make teeny tiny crocheted hearts for Valentine's Day. That's not all. Stacy, the ultra-crafty mom and grandma, who also happens to run the Knitting Nest, will have cards and all the supplies you will need to make handmade Valentines so your kids will bring the most popular cards to the party! It will be really easy. Did I say easy? Even if you've never crocheted before, I promise, when I'm done with you, you will have a stack of little crocheted hearts to make Valentines with.

The little heart is attached to a jumbo paperclip and detaches from the card to use as a bookmark. Cute, right?? Inspired by a pin on Pinterest, these will be the coolest cards ever. All the kids will love 'em.

While this is an awesome class for the grownups (not just Mom, of course!), kids can get in on the action later in the day at a Friendship Bracelet class. I know when I was growing up in the late 80s and early 90s, Friendship Bracelets were HUGE. Every week there was some new design someone was making. We put one on and KEPT it on. Never took those things off, even in the shower. I remember pulling tights over my Friendship Anklets, feeling like such a good friend. :)

If you're interested in either of these classes, please call the Knitting Nest at (512) 291-8866 to sign up. I'm also continuing my Thursday morning classes (every other week) with my next class on Thursday, February 16th at 10:00. We're making amigurumi, of course!

Free Pattern Friday! Austin Owl Amigurumi

2012-02-02T23:19:00.002-06:00

Last year I participated in the Renegade Craft Fair here in Austin. It was so much fun and I hope I have time to do it again next year. (This year is definitely OUT--ahem...book....!) I wanted to design something with an owl since everything Renegade is represented by an owl. I put together about 150 kits each containing materials and tools to make a tiny Austin Owl amigurumi. I designed the pattern to be accessible to beginners and seasoned crocheters. They are fun and customizable since they can be made in any color imaginable and with teeny tiny fabric scraps. When I'm not crocheting I also like to sew (mostly Halloween costumes and the like) so I'm no stranger to leftover bits of fabric that I hate to throw away. It's fun to put colors together in unexpected ways to make these cute little guys. I've had this pattern in my Ravelry shop for a while now but I wanted to set the owls free! Get it?

Austin Owl Amigurumi

Free pattern after the jump!

Here's what you'll need:

Materials:
Worsted weight yarn (any color)
Polyester fiberfill
Fabric
Felt
Two small (~ 3/8") buttons

Tools:
Crochet hook (I used size E, 3.5mm)
Yarn needle
Craft glue OR matching thread

Body:

Rnd 1: Starting at bottom of body, with yarn and Hook, make an adjustable ring, ch 1, and sc 6 into the ring. Pull closed.

Rnd 2: Work 2 sc into each st (12)

Rnd 3: Working in back loops of each stitch only (BLO), sc into each st (12)

Rnds 4-7: Sc into each st (12)

Rnd 8: (2 Sc into next st, sc into next 5 st)* rep to end of round (14)

Fasten off and leave a long tail for sewing. Stuff the owl. Thread the yarn needle with the yarn tail. Flatten the top edge so that you have one long seam of 7 st to sew through. Whipstitch the seam closed, knot the yarn tail and hide within the body of the owl, clipping the tail close to the surface.

Finishing:

Cut a small egg shape from the fabric for the owl’s tummy. Glue or sew the patch onto the owl. Cut a small triangle from felt and glue to owl for the beak. Glue or sew two button eyes to the owl’s face.

Pick your colors!

Whooooo is making a whole nest full of these?

These would be cute little Valentine's day gifts! Once you get going on them, they are quick and fun to make. If you're not ready to commit to Valentine's, how adorable would these be in your Easter basket?
Hope you enjoy these little guys!

Leslie Hall is a Midwest Diva

2012-01-16T11:19:00.002-06:00

Please send a representative. I've just made the world's smallest gem sweater in the world. Seriously, it is small. And it has gems on it. And I made it. That's why it says "Crafty is Cool"!

Leslie Hall in her Crafty is Cool gem sweater. It needs a name.

More photos after the jump!

The real Leslie Hall (photo from LeslieHall.com)

Leslie Hall in her signature gold lycra (photo from LeslieHall.com)

I mean, have you even seen her amazingly fantastically hilarious "Craft Talk" video??

I can watch it over and over and over (as well as Tight Pants/Body Rolls) and it does not get old. Speaking of "Tight Pants/Body Rolls", my kids also adore Leslie Hall. We've downloaded several of her songs onto their iPods and they know more of the words than I do.

Leslie Hall and DJ Lance Rock backstage at the Yo Gabba Gabba Live

When we went to see Yo Gabba Gabba and I brought all the amigurumi characters to DJ Lance, Leslie Hall asked when she was getting a Leslie Hall doll. Well, what a great idea! So, Ms. Leslie Hall, here she is!

The amazing Leslie Hall, amigurumi form.

Keeper of the gems.

Leslie Hall and the LY's are coming to Austin in March and I can't wait! Will there be a photo of Leslie and little Leslie soon? I HOPE!

*If you're wondering about a pattern for Leslie, I used several of my patterns together to create her, including Talk Show Host, Wonder Woman, and Pee-wee.

Free Pattern Friday! Valentine's Day Yarn Wreath

2012-01-13T21:54:00.006-06:00

Valentine's Day Yarn Wreath

As soon as the Christmas decorations come down in my house, I like to get things moving on to the next holiday. Sure I could try to decorate for "Winter" but I really love red and pink and hearts and all that stuff, so I go straight for Valentine's Day!
I'm sure some people would wait until February to decorate (if they decorate at all) but then what do you have? Two weeks? No way! I say decorate in January and revel in the awesomeness longer. (That is the reason I decorate for Halloween at the beginning of September, after all!)

I have a spot in my kitchen where I always hang a wreath. My front door is a craftsman-type, with windows at the top and a little ledge, so I can never quite figure out hanging a wreath there. I always look for a cute wreath for Valentine's day at the usual places: Target, Hobby Lobby, etc, but I never find the right one. So with all these awesome yarn wreaths I love to drool over on Pinterest, I thought I'd make my own! This one is super easy and the heart pattern is fun and quick.

Free pattern after the jump!

Valentine's Yarn Wreath

Materials:
12" Styrofoam wreath form
Bulky variegated yarn (I used Hobby Lobby's First Love Yarn in "Kisses")
Any color worsted weight yarn (I used hot pink, pale pink, aqua, light blue, lilac, and purple)

Yarn, 16 gauge wire, 12 foam wreath

E Hook (or your favorite)
Yarn needle
Polyester stuffing
16 gauge wire (optional)
Decorative ribbon or trim
Stick pins

Key:
ch: chain
sc: single crochet
st: stitch
sc2tog: single crochet 2 st together (decrease)

* * *
Begin by tying the yarn around the wreath in one spot. Don't worry about hiding the knot, as it will be covered. Wrap the yarn all the way around the wreath, trying to not overlap the strands. This makes the yarn's color changes more even. When you reach the end, cut the yarn leaving a few inches and wrap the tail to the back. Use a crochet hook and pull the tail under a few strands to hide it.

Heart A (smallest--make 2):
R1: Starting at point of heart, make an adjustable ring, ch 1, and sc 3 into the ring. Pull closed.
R2: Work 2sc into each st (6)
R3: (2 Sc into next st, sc into next st)* repeat to end of round (9)
R4: (2 Sc into next st, sc into next 2 st)* repeat to end of round (12)
R5: (2 Sc into next st, sc into next 3 st)* repeat to end of round (15)
R6: (2 Sc into next st, sc into next 4 st)* repeat to end of round (18)
R7: Sc into the next 9 st, skip next 9 st.
*You have now started the right side of the top of the heart.
R8: Starting at the first stitch of R6, sc into each st (9)
R9: (Sc2tog, sc into next st)* repeat to end of round (6)
Fasten off by slip stitching into the next stitch. Leave a tail. Using the yarn needle, weave tail through last row of stitches and pull tightly to close the hole. Use a stuffing tool or the eraser end of the pencil to stuff the heart lightly. Attach yarn back onto the open side of the yarn, starting on the inside and you will work around the opening. You can either tie a knot to attach the new yarn or you can insert the hook on the outside into the first stitch and pull the yarn up through the work, and sc for your first stitch. Repeat R7-9 on the other side to create the second top bump. Weave in ends and set aside.

Heart B (medium--make 1):
R1-R6: Work as for Heart A
R7: (2 Sc into next st, sc into next 5 st)* repeat to end of round (21)
R8: (2 Sc into next st, sc into next 6 st)* repeat to end of round (24)
R9: Sc into next 12 st, skip next 12 st.
*You have now started the right side of the top of the heart.
R10: Starting at the first st of R9, sc into each st (12)
R11: (Sc2tog, sc into next 2 st)* repeat to end of round (9)
R12: (Sc2tog, sc into next st)* repeat to end of round (6)

Fasten off by slip stitching into the next stitch. Leave a tail. Using the yarn needle, weave tail through last row of stitches and pull tightly to close the hole. Use a stuffing tool or the eraser end of the pencil to stuff the heart lightly. Attach yarn back onto the open side of the yarn, starting on the inside and you will work around the opening. You can either tie a knot to attach the new yarn or you can insert the hook on the outside into the first stitch and pull the yarn up through the work, and sc for your first stitch. Repeat R9-12 on the other side to create the second top bump. Weave in ends and set aside.

Heart C (large--make 2):

R1-R8: Work as for Heart B

R9: (2 Sc into next st, sc into next 7 st)* repeat to end of round (27)

R10: (2 Sc into next st, sc into next 8 st)* repeat to end of round (30)

R11: Sc into next 15 st, skip next 15 st.

*You have now started the right side of the top of the heart.

R12: Starting at the first st of R11, sc into each st (15)

R13: (Sc2tog, sc into next 3 st)* repeat to end of round (12)

R14: (Sc2tog, sc into next 2 st)* repeat to end of round (9)

R15: (Sc2tog, sc into next st)* repeat to end of round (6)

Fasten off by slip stitching into the next stitch. Leave a tail. Using the yarn needle, weave tail through last row of stitches and pull tightly to close the hole. Use a stuffing tool or the eraser end of the pencil to stuff the heart lightly. Attach yarn back onto the open side of the yarn, starting on the inside and you will work around the opening. You can either tie a knot to attach the new yarn or you can insert the hook on the outside into the first stitch and pull the yarn up through the work, and sc for your first stitch. Repeat R11-15 on the other side to create the second top bump. Weave in ends and set aside.

Heart D (extra large--make 1):

R1-10: Work as for Heart C

R11: (2 Sc into next st, sc into 9 st)* repeat to end of round (33)

R12: (2 Sc into next st, sc into 10 st)* repeat to end of round (36)

R13: Sc into next 18 st, skip next 18 st.

*You have now started the right side of the top of the heart.

R14: Starting at the first st of R13, sc into each st (18)

R15: (Sc2tog, sc into next 4 st)* repeat to end of round (15)

R16: (Sc2tog, sc into next 3 st)* repeat to end of round (12)

R17: (Sc2tog, sc into next 2 st)* repeat to end of round (9)

R18: (Sc2tog, sc into next st)* repeat to end of round (6)

Fasten off by slip stitching into the next stitch. Leave a tail. Using the yarn needle, weave tail through last row of stitches and pull tightly to close the hole. Use a stuffing tool or the eraser end of the pencil to stuff the heart lightly. Attach yarn back onto the open side of the yarn, starting on the inside and you will work around the opening. You can either tie a knot to attach the new yarn or you can insert the hook on the outside into the first stitch and pull the yarn up through the work, and sc for your first stitch. Repeat R13-18 on the other side to create the second top bump. Weave in ends and set aside.

You may now begin sewing your hearts together. Arrange them as you would like and stitch them in a line. It's easier to use one color and stitch through all of them across, keeping your stitches hidden, rather than changing yarn colors.

The next step is completely optional but I found that it really helped the hearts on my wreath stand up and stay in line. Once you've stitched the hearts together, start at the back on one side and feed a long piece of wire all the way through to the other side. After making it all the way through, insert both ends into the wreath form.

In a word processing program, print "Happy Valentine's Day" and trim into a banner. Curl edges and pin to wreath.

Cut a length of trim 24" in half, so you have two 12" pieces. Loop them around the top of the wreath and tie at the top. Hang her up! Easy right? Happy Valentine's Day! (or as my little boys say, Happy Valentimes!)

Book Review and Giveaway! Crocheted Softies!

2011-12-13T10:46:00.003-06:00

** Thanks for all the entries! Out of 123 comments, the winner was #51, CuCuCreates, who wants to crochet a crocodile! I bet it will be awesome! Thanks for playing!

I'm sure I'm like most people that crochet. When I started, it was all about gifts. I gave away pretty much everything I made, either to my kids or other people's kids. I loved finding cute patterns for stuffed toys that made great gifts. Gifts for kids, particularly stuffed animals, are so fun to make and usually take a lot less yarn and time than bigger projects (like afghans or sweaters!).

Win this! Keep Reading!

In Stacey Trock's new book, Crocheted Softies, you will find patterns for 18 adorable animals from around the world! These aren't just the typical teddy bears and bunnies, but awesome patterns with texture and detail that kids will love on for years. She starts off the book with a thorough introduction to crochet. You'll learn all the basics, plus special stitches Stacey uses for adding character to her crochet designs. I especially love the details she gave regarding making the toys child-safe (like crocheted eyes), and her diagrams for assembly are some of the best I've seen (and I've read LOTS of crochet books!).

She starts off with a basic animal shape, then elaborates with different animal patterns (her elephant is especially adorable) and goes all the way around the globe (continent by continent!) and then into outer space! Check out her hilarious alien! What little boy wouldn't think that was totally cool?

Zork the Alien! from Crocheted Softies

More after the jump!

Another thing about the book that is really cool is just the way Stacey crochets. See how her creations have little ridges all around? That's because she crochets into the back loop of all of her stitches. Her book says that it helps hide stuffing. By doing it this way she can crochet with a larger hook, and I'm guessing it makes her toys larger in the end too. Interesting! I like the texture it gives to her toys!

My absolute favorite pattern in the book is Salty the Crocodile! It reminds me so much of a vintage handmade crocodile toy a friend had. All those nubby crocheted bobbles in rows on his back and those cartoonish eyes just bring this little guy to life. Love him!

Salty the Crocodile from Crocheted Softies

Stacey has done a great job using natural fibers throughout this book. You'll be inspired to try out new textures and materials when you're crocheting, I'll bet.

So now that you are all clamoring to get this book, who wants to win an autographed copy? I'm going to give away one copy of the book, which Stacey has signed, to one lucky winner. This would make a fantastic gift to anyone, since the projects are a great introduction to crocheting!

All you have to do to enter is to comment with an animal you'd love to crochet! Make sure you also leave your email address so I can contact you if you win. I'll pick a random entry this THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15th, around 5 pm central time, and ship the book asap so you can wrap it up or keep it for yourself! (But you better get some yarn because you'll want to make one of these cuties for the holidays!)

EDIT: Here's a list of animals inside!
elephant
giraffe
orangutan
panda
crocodile
kiwi
owl
snail
penguin
walrus
moose
crab
alpaca
snake
fish
jellyfish
alien
macrobe
microbe