This IS My Day Job

A Farewell Buzz

2023-09-12T00:00:00.001-04:00

Dear friends and customers,

I want to take this opportunity to thank you for 11+ years of support and encouragement.

After much thought, I have decided to take a break from Queen B's Busy Work as a business. This was not an easy decision, but I feel it is the right one at this time. Recently, the running of the Etsy shop has become more of a stress instead of something I enjoy. I need time to rediscover my love for crochet and work on some personal projects, as well as to explore some new hobbies.

I do not yet know if this break will be permanent or if I will return after the first of the year, perhaps with new products and a little rebranding.

I am currently offering 40% off everything in the shop until September 22, 2023. I am no longer accepting custom orders and will not accept any orders through the Etsy shop as of September 30, 2023.

I will keep my Instagram profile up and running as a platform to share what I am working on, whether that's my crochet or any new crafts I decide to try. I hope you will continue to follow my crafting adventures there.

Have a BEEautiful Day

Here Comes the Holiday Season!

2022-10-23T16:27:00.001-04:00

The busy holiday season is just around the corner! (What? Already!?). We could all do with a short opportunity to take a deep breath and prepare ourselves for the craziness that happens during the last 2 months of the year...

The Etsy shop will be closed November 1 - 20. I will be back in plenty of time for the Black Friday-Cyber Monday weekend, when I have some deals planned for you!

In the meantime, before everyone's schedules get full - take care of yourself (maybe a nice warm bath - it two) and treat yourself like royalty.

Important Shop Update

2022-04-11T00:00:00.001-04:00

The price of everything is going up these days. We're all feeling the pinch at the gas pumps and the grocery store. Rising prices also extend to the craft store. I have been trying to avoid having the same thing happen in my Etsy shop.

Unfortunately, I'm afraid it can no longer be avoided. I haven't come to this decision easily. It's been a lot of debating with myself, agonizing over the cost that goes into items, and putting it off. The cost of everything from my supplies to shipping to Etsy fees has increased recently. I have taken on the added expense myself until now, but it has reached a point where I am barely breaking even on several items.

Starting the week of April 18th (right after Easter), you will begin to see price increases on most items in the shop. Prices will be going up by 10% to 20%, depending on the item.

Thank you for your understanding and your continued support of Queen B's Busy Work.

Let's BEE Friends!

2021-06-30T00:01:00.122-04:00

Social Media Day? That sounds like a made-up holiday. Of course, it is! Social Media day was created in 2010 by Mashable to honor social media and recognize its impact on communications around the world.

For many (most?) of us - social media is a big part of our lives, either for personal or professional use. And what better way to celebrate Social Media Day than by getting social? Reach out to others on your favorite social media platforms. Or try out a new one. Follow some new users - and maybe find a few new followers along the way!

Are you following my social media profiles? No??? What are you waiting for? In honor of Social Media Day, check me out on Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin, Pinterest, or Twitter. (Or all of them... you know, if you've got nothing better to do with your day) While you're there be sure to leave a comment and say "Hi!"

https://www.facebook.com/QueenBsBusyWork

https://www.instagram.com/queenbsbusywork/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/queenbsbusywork/(3) Beckey Payne | LinkedIn

https://www.pinterest.com/queenbsbusywork

https://twitter.com/QueenBsBusyWork

While we're talking social media... and, of course, crochet -

If you're wanting to celebrate Social Media Day by hooking up something fun - check out these social media-inspired crochet patterns from Tug Boat Yarning! You can find more info about them HERE.

social media-inspired crocheted icons – tugboat yarning

Also, take a peek at these cute highlight covers for Instagram by svetlanaARTdreams HERE. They are adorable!

Instagram Story Highlight covers Social Media crochet Icons (1013951) | Icons | Design Bundles

What's your favorite social media platform? Let me know in the comments.

Eight Patterns to Crochet This Summer

2021-06-21T00:01:00.001-04:00

When most people think "summer", crochet may not be the first thing that comes to mind. In fact, many people think crocheting is only for the cooler months.

They. Are. Wrong!

Summer is a great time to pull out the hooks and some lighter-weight yarns and whip up some lovely summertime creations. In fact, I think that crocheting while sitting on the beach may be one of my very favorite ways to relax.

Don't believe me? Here are a few patterns to help convince you that crocheting and summertime are most definitely a match!

I'm 100% obsessed with this first pattern by Mama In A Stitch. In fact, I'm in the process of making one of these for myself. It looks fancy - but in reality, is quite easy to create. It's lightweight and so perfect for summer. But it could also be layered for wear during the fall. The free pattern is available HERE

http://www.mamainastitch.com/summer-vacation-easy-crocheted-top-pattern/

Another great crocheted top for summer is this Summer's Breeze Top. The pattern is by A Purpose and A Stitch and is available HERE on her website. It has options for a tank top style or a halter back. I personally think the halter back is just beautiful. I've added this to my "I Want to Make That" list!

https://apurposeandastitch.com/summers-breeze-top-free-pattern/

Nothing says summer quite like the beach. If you want to bring that fun in the sun feeling inside - try making this adorable Crochet Beach Ball Pillow from Persia Lou. It is a pretty piece of summer decor, but it would also be fun to keep the kids busy for an indoor beach picnic on a rainy day. You can find the pattern HERE

https://persialou.com/crochet-beach-ball-pattern/

When you do head out to the beach - don't forget the sun protection! Including this great Beach Day SunHat by A Crocheted Simplicity. It has a wide brim, perfect for keeping the damaging rays off your face. The pattern is free on her blog. www.acrochetedsimplicity.com/beach-day-sunhat-free-crochet-pattern-celebratemomcal/ (BONUS: She also includes a link to the pattern for a coordinating coverup!)

https://www.acrochetedsimplicity.com/beach-day-sunhat-free-crochet-pattern-celebratemomcal/

I don't know about you - but my favorite summer accessory is my sunglasses. Unfortunately, I probably spend as much time looking for them as I do actually wearing them. You can help to reduce that problem with the Pine Tree Crochet Sunglasses Case! This pattern puts the "fun" in functional! And it's available for free HERE

https://pinetreecrochet.com/crochet-sunglasses-case/

Some of us still get chilly in the summer, especially on those long summer evenings. Which makes this In the Forest of the Night cardigan by Desamour Designs the perfect summer piece. The gorgeous leaf pattern keeps it from being too bulky for the warmer months. And it has three options for sleeves - sleeveless, short sleeve, or long sleeve. With those - you could make one for every season! Find the pattern for sizes small and medium for free on her blog https://desamourdesigns.com/2020/02/15/in-the-forest-of-the-night-cardi/. You can also purchase the pattern for sizes small to 2XL HERE

Desamour DesignsModern Crochet DesignerIn the Forest of the Night Cardi Crochet Pattern

Summer also means trips to the farmer's markets and tailgate markets. If you don't want to be stuck trying to hold all your finds in your arms (and usually dropping something) - make yourself this Beginner Crochet Market Tote Bag from Easy Crochet. You can find the free pattern HERE

https://easycrochet.com/market-tote-bag-crochet-pattern/

Last - but certainly not least - what about a simple, yet beautiful summer dress to wear to all those backyard barbecues or a brunch with a friend? A crocheted dress, of course! Like this Cache Coeur dress from Knitting with Chopsticks. You can find the free pattern on her website https://knittingwithchopsticks.com/cache-coeur-free-dress-crochet-pattern/. Or purchase the PDF at her Ravelry store HERE

https://knittingwithchopsticks.com/cache-coeur-free-dress-crochet-pattern/

What will you be making this summer?

Six Crochet Patterns Perfect for Father's Day

2021-06-15T00:01:00.203-04:00

Father's Day is this Sunday (June 20, 2021). Have you picked out a gift for dear old-dad yet? Time is running out for purchasing gifts. But you might still have time to crochet something fun for him!

If you're struggling to find a little yarn inspiration to create something for the fathers in your life, look no further. I've put together a few of my favorite crochet patterns from around the web that just might be perfect for a dad you want to celebrate.

moogly Bring Your Own Bag

If Dad is a hop-head, make him The Bring Your Own Bag Add a six-pack of his favorite brew - or a selection of new varieties for him to try. The free pattern can be found HERE on the Moogly blog.

moogly Beer Growler Cozy

Maybe Dad is less a single serving size kind of guy and prefers a growler from his local brewery - Moogly also has this awesome Beer Growler Cozy available HERE

Worm On A Hook by With Alex

With Alex always comes up with the most wonderful patterns and this Worm on a Hat Hook is no exception. How cute would it be on a brand new hat for your favorite fisher-dad? The pattern is free and available HERE.

My Sweet Potato 3 Cabled Golf Club Covers

If your dad is a golfer, consider these Cabled Golf Club Covers created by My Sweet Potato 3. Crochet a set in his favorite color or the colors of his favorite sports team. There's even an option to top them with some snazzy You can purchase the pattern HERE

Guitar Pick Holder Keychain by The Bee's Honey

Would Dad rather be playing music than hitting the links or fishing - this Guitar Pick Holder Keychain is a quick gift that is also quite handy! (My son isn't a father, but he is a guitar player, so I just might have to make him one of these!). Designed by The Bee's Honey, and you can find the pattern HERE

Two Brother's Blankets Boston Slouch Hat

Still can't decide? You can't go wrong with a great slouchy hat like this Boston Slouch Hat from Two Brother's Blankets! Find the pattern HERE

What are your favorite patterns to make for Father's Day gifts? Share in the comments!

Black Friday Arrives Early

2020-11-19T10:52:00.000-05:00

Have you started decorating for Christmas yet? I was ready to start decking the halls a couple of weeks ago. After facing resistance from the menfolk - I decided to wait until the day after Thanksgiving to transform my home into a winter wonderland. That's my Black Friday planned.

Speaking of Black Friday,...

Tomorrow - Friday, November 20 is the Queen B's Busy Work Annual Black Friday Sale

Everything in the shop is 30% off for one day only! And as always, shipping is free within the US.

I know I've said it already, but it doesn't hurt to repeat myself - due to possible (probable?) shipping delays, it's a good idea to shop early this year to make sure your gifts arrive in time for Christmas!

Have you started your holiday shopping yet?

What You Need to Know

2020-11-13T00:00:00.017-05:00

2020 hasn't been like any other year that we've seen before. And I think it is probably a safe bet that the upcoming Christmas season is going to play out much the same way.

Both as a customer and an Etsy seller, I'm already seeing delays in how long it takes for items to arrive. Have you noticed the same thing yet? As online shopping rolls into high gear, I expect this will only increase.

Based on this, I am encouraging customers to shop earlier than usual this year, if possible, to assure plenty of time for your packages to arrive.

In more positive news...

I have a couple of new bath and beauty gift sets arriving in the shop just in time for Christmas shopping. This week I introduced a beautiful set of 10 cotton facial rounds in a glass jar. They arrive nestled in tissue in a white gift box. Perfect for gift giving!

https://www.etsy.com/listing/902110579/

I have another gift set arriving next week, so be sure to check back for that!

Cute Halloween Costume Ideas

2020-09-30T00:30:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow takes us into October. And for many people, that means Halloween season. I used to love Halloween. Helping the kids pick out costumes, taking them trick-or-treating. Many years I would even dress up myself!

Now the kids are grown, and we don't get any trick-or-treaters out where we live. Even though Halloween may look a little different this year because ofCovid - that doesn't mean you can't have a little dress-up fun!

I still enjoy looking at costume ideas online. (Pinterest, anyone?) Today, I thought I would share a few of my favorites with you. Maybe it will help inspire your creativity and jump-start your Halloween spirit.

I'm somewhat of a coffee addict. So, naturally, this DIY Starbucks Cup Costume is right up my alley! Seriously, how cute is this!? If I had a kid, or needed a costume for myself, I would be working one of these up faster than a barista can prep a frappucino.

photo: andrealebeau.blogspot.com

What goes better with coffee than a donut (or two)? They can also be super quick and easy (not to mention - CUTE) Donut Costumes - like these!

photo: parents.com

I even found this tutorial for an adorable Donut Headbands if you have a few extra minutes and want to accessorize.

jenerallyinformed.com

Maybe you're not into donuts, but ice cream is more your thing? Gotcha covered with this chill little Ice Cream Cone Costume. (See what I did there? LOL) This one is a little more involved than some of the others and requires fabric paint. But the results speak for themselves.

photo: prettylifegirls.com

Trick or Treating on a rainy day might not be a whole lot of fun. But dressing in a Rain Cloud Costume can be! I'll be honest, when I first saw this I thought that it looked heavy, but after reading the details I don't think it would be a problem at all. And I adore that they added some rainboots to complete the look.

photo: makeit-loveit.com

This Crazy Cat Lady costume is adorable on a kid. And I think it would bee hilarious on a grown woman.

photo: Imgur

And while we're on the topic of costumes - From Star Wars to animals, Queen B's Busy work carries a variety of cute character hats available for all ages and siz

Stormtrooper: https://www.etsy.com/listing/502402795/

Fox: https://www.etsy.com/listing/489383824/

Teddy Bear: https://www.etsy.com/listing/196727965/

Pumpkin: https://www.etsy.com/listing/107322335/

Tiger: https://www.etsy.com/listing/486134227/

BB-8: https://www.etsy.com/listing/267067372/

Do you enjoy dressing up for Halloween?

Down, But Not Out

2020-09-23T00:30:00.008-04:00

If you are not a crocheter, you may not know that fingers are a pretty essential part of the crochet process. We use them to hold, twist, and manipulate our yarn and crochet hooks.

So, what's a busy bee to do when she finds herself with an injured finger? Especially when there are orders to be filled?

I suppose she could issue a bunch of refunds along with her apologies and just deal with the fall out.

Or...

She could figure out a way to make it work and keep buzzing on. Which is just what this Queen B did!

Last weekend, I managed to jam the middle finger on my right hand while closing a door. (I was in a rush, trying shut it to trap my dog before he escaped the bedroom with a pair of socks he had snatched from the dirty clothes hanper. It was a whole thing) It hurt a lot in the moment, and at the time I wondered if I had done any serious damage. But it stopped hurting so much after several minutes and I moved on with my day. Until later that afternoon when it started hurting more and more.

So... yeh... jammed (sprained) finger. The only cure - ice, ibuprofen and/or acetaminophen, a splint and time.

I was worried. Between the pain and the splint - was I going to be able to crochet?

Fortunately, I am one determined (some might say "stubborn") bee. The ibuprofen and ice helped ease the worst of the pain. And I figured out a way to make it work with the splint.

Yes, it definitely slows me down, but I'm getting it done.

So far, all orders will still bee shipping on time. I will certainly keep you updated if that should change for any reason.

Christmas In July - Week Three

2020-07-22T16:03:00.000-04:00

How's your July been going? Mine has been sort of a mixed bag. Some good. Some really good. Some not so good. Some... meh. You know. Pretty much a typical month.

Last weekend was my daughter's 28th birthday. It still feels a little surreal to me that I gave birth to someone who is now that age! It feels appropriate to bring that up, since her middle name is Noel. When she was born several hospital staff mentioned how unusual it was to have a baby with that name born in the summer. But I loved the name, especially as a middle name with the name we had selected for her first name. And she was a special gift, just like my own little bit of Christmas in July!

And, so - in honor of her birthday - here are the items featured for week three:

https://www.etsy.com/listing/746033718/

Baking cupcakes for her birthday with the grand kid reminded me that there are still a few Christmas Kitchen sets available in the shop.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/829099386/

A fun Christmas holder adds a special touch when giving a gift card. It would also be fun for carrying a few business cards during the holiday season, or your ID and credit/debit cards for a night out!

https://www.etsy.com/listing/841917957/

Add some rustic charm to your Christmas tree this holiday with these hand-crocheted star ornaments.

Do you celebrate any special dates in July like birthdays or anniversaries?

Week Two: Christmas In July

2020-07-15T18:55:00.002-04:00

Week two of "Christmas in July" was a slow one. I was busy with orders and was only able to share a couple of items. I hope to have more for you next week!

https://www.etsy.com/listing/745731180/

A lovely kitchen Christmas gift set for someone special! Set includes: 3 Cotton Dishcloths tucked inside a ceramic mug.

How cute is this peppermint candy coaster? I'm infatuated with them! And they will be available in the shop later this week.

Are you enjoying Christmas in July so far?

Christmas In July: Week One Recap

2020-07-08T15:10:00.000-04:00

I hope all of you had a safe and happy 4th of July - whatever that may have looked like for you. In an attempt to keep my family and others safe, we had a quiet day at home. I was sad to miss the cookout at my dad's house, but with him being older and having had heart surgery back in the fall, I wasn't willing to risk carrying anything over to him. The Man of the Hive grilled some delicious hamburgers, I did some yard work and we enjoyed a relaxing and quiet holiday.

And speaking of holidays - here are the featured items from week one of "Christmas In July":

https://www.etsy.com/listing/835438917/

This red mug-shaped gift card holder is a unique and personal way to present a card for thier favorite coffee shop. Perfect for the office gift exchange, secret Santa, teacher appreciation, and more!

https://www.etsy.com/listing/808779572/

Cotton facial rounds make great stocking stuffers! They are soft on your delicate facial skin, yet durable enough to stand up use after use.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/502872857/

Say "Merry Christ-moose" with this adorable beanie! Makes a fun winter accessory for the outdoor enthusiast or hunter. It's also a cute prop for a forest theme newborn photo shoot.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/821539742/

Handcrafted 3-dimensional lips ornament makes a fun gift, or a cute addition to your own tree!

Week one of "Christmas in July" was a lot of fun! I'm looking forward to week two when I'll share some new ones that will be coming soon to the Etsy shop as well as a couple of existing ones!

Have A BEEautiful week everyone!

Christmas In July

2020-07-01T00:30:00.003-04:00

Welcome, July! Half of the year is officially behind us. (And what a year it has been, so far)

The heat of summer can make it difficult to think about Christmas. But it's never too early to start planning ahead for the holidays. With that in mind - I'll be creating new Christmas items and listing them in the shop for the entire month of July.

I was originally going to introduce a new item here each day. However, I don't want to overwhelm the blog - or your emails - with posts. With that in mind, I'll be doing posts to my instagram and facebook almost every day. I'll be sharing a round-up of those items once a week here on the blog.

Stay tuned... there might even be an additional surprise gift showing up at some point this month!

Black Artists and Makers I Think You Should Know

2020-06-18T01:00:00.062-04:00

If you have been watching the recent protests calling for social justice in our country and around your world, you may be wondering what you can do to help support the black community and bring an end to racial inequality.

There are so many: donate to organizations that work for social justice such as Black Lives Matter, write to your local, state, and federal representatives and VOTE for those who are willing to stand up for change, sign petitions, and participate in protests. (just to name a few)

Another way (and one of my favorites) is to support black artists and creators. Follow them on social media. Buy their art. Share their work with others.

In that spirit - here are a few women I think you should know!

Stitching Melodies

I have been following this gorgeous (inside and out!) lady on Instagram for quite some time. She is a talented intuitive seamstress located in Hudson Valley, New York. Her work is beautiful. And I love hearing the stories behind all of the Memory Keepsakes she creates for her clients.

You can find her on Instagram @stitchingmelodies and Facebook @kasstitchingmelodies

Queen Of Nature Crowns

This woman not only creates amazing handmade crowns and accessories, she is so incredible supportive of other creators! If your day needs a pick me up - you must check out her Instagram feed @queenofnaturecrowns . She makes me chuckle just about every day!

Be sure to visit out her Etsy shop www.etsy.com/shop/queenofnaturecrowns

Manning's Handmade Crafty Creation

This is another maker I have been following on Instagram for about as long as I can remember. If you love organic and natural bath products - you should be following too! Her bath and body care products are handcrafted with pride and love in Memphis, TN.

Check her out on Instagram @manningshandmadecraftycreation and visit her shop: https://www.manningshandmadecraftycreations.xyz/

Jas Iman Art and Designs

I have had the pleasure of knowing this last young lady since she was only two years old. She and my son grew up together and it has been such a joy to see her grow and blossom over time into the talented artist she is today!

Shop her Etsy store https://www.etsy.com/shop/jasiman and check her out on Instagram @jasimanart

@jasimanart

Who are some of the artists and makers you think I should know? Share their info in the comments!

Simple DIY Dog Shirt

2020-05-27T01:00:00.041-04:00

I thought I would do something a little different from the usual crochet-themed post today. I hope you enjoy it!

My dachshund puppy, Max, was not enjoying the cool and rainy weather we had last week. He wold come to me often, shivering and want to snuggle up next to me with his blanket. He has outgrown the little shirts and jackets he wore during the winter. So I decided to create a little DIY no-sew shirt for him.

I found a sweatshirt in my "To Donate" box, which I felt would be perfect for this project.

I cut off a sleeve and trimmed away the wristband.

I measured Max from the base of his neck to the base of his tail to decide how long the shirt needed to be.

I also measured his underside so that I could shape the shirt so that it wouldn't get wet when he urinates.

A few more measurements to determine where to place the holes for his front legs.

Max inspecting my work so far

And... Voila! In about 15 minutes I had a nice warm shirt for Max to wear on those chilly Spring days. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy!

Doesn't he look quite pleased with his new shirt?

His harness even fits right over it so he can be warm on his walks also.

How has the Spring weather been where you live?

Ouch!

2020-05-20T01:00:00.012-04:00

Last week while folding laundry, I managed to crack my knee against the corner of the coffee table. Maybe I was just feeling a little silly. Or perhaps all the time in self-quarantine is finally making me a little loopy. Whatever the reason, the pain inspired me to quickly compose a little poem.

I hit my knee,

It hurt so bad.

I hit my knee,

And now I'm sad.

I hit my knee,

It hurts so much.

I hit my knee,

Might need a crutch.

I hit my knee,

And now it's sore.

I hit my knee,

That's all, no more.

After writing that masterpiece (ahem...) , I once again felt inspired - to crochet something to go along with it.

I started with the design from a crochet band-aid pattern by Repeat Crafter Me, adding a loop so that the item can be used as an ornament, or put on a key chain.

Wouldn't it make a nice gift for a nurse or other healthcare worker?

Everyone Loves a Comeback Story

2020-05-13T00:30:00.003-04:00

It's true... everyone love a good come back story. Here's one you'll really love: I'm thrilled to report that effective immediately - Made to Order items are BACK !

Been waiting to order a set of washcloths, dishcloths or a cotton bath puff in your favorite color? Were you sad when your favorite character hat wasn't available? Looking for a baby gift for your favorite football fan? Chin up - they're all back in the shop.

I've missed making them for you. So head on over to welcome them back by placing your order today.

Quarantine Crochet

2020-05-06T01:00:00.000-04:00

How are you doing? Is anyone else getting a little tired of that question? I mean... I'm not sure how I'm doing from one minute to the next. Which makes it difficult to say how I am doing just in general. But, I'm hanging in there. I hope you are too. It certainly helps to have something to keep me busy when I need to take my mind of things. And, as you can probably guess - for me, that thing is crochet.

I've been using up some of my yarn stash to work on various ready to ship items for the shop. As well as a couple of personal projects.

The first thing I decided to do was a little afghan for my grandson. The kid is always asking for a blanket when he watches tv, reads or plays video games. Even in the heat of summer. He is also a recent newcomer to the Harry Potter fandom. When he took an online quiz about which Hogwarts house you belong to, it said he is a Hufflepuff. So what could be better than a blanket in black and gold - the official Hufflepuff colors!

I was so happy with how quickly it worked up and the beautiful results that I decided to make a baby blanket which will probably be available soon in the shop. I selected one of my favorite color combos - navy blue and mint green - for this blanket.

Both blankets are based off the granny square baby blanket pattern by Daisy Cottage Designs. I have already selected some yarn to create a navy blue/light blue/white blanket and I'm thinking I would also like to create one in black/gray/white/

I've also been working on several spa bath sets and washcloth sets, which I hope to have listed later this week.

I have wanted to make up some cotton rounds in different colors for a while, and now I'm finally finding the time to do it. I've done a couple of mini sets of three rounds in blush pink which are already listed in the shop - including a new larger size! I have also created a few sets in shades of purple, as well as a set in dusty rose and I'm working on a dark teal set and a mint green set also.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/791025377

I've also been working on some non-crochet projects. Such as coloring a pair of coffee prints to frame and hang over my coffee station. I've shared my progress over on my Instagram , if you'd like to take a peek.

What have you found to keep you busy during the stay at home orders?

How to Make Reusable Makeup Remover Wipes

2020-04-15T00:00:00.000-04:00

How's everyone holding up out there? I hope that each and everyone of you is doing well, staying home, staying safe and finding healthy ways to cope with this current reality.

One of the things we have had to learn to deal with in order to keep ourselves and others safe is limiting or eliminating our trips to the store for day to day items. And facing the possibility of not being able to find what we need when we do get to the store or make an online order for delivery.
Many of us are looking to new options for commonly used items.

If you're like me, you might not be wearing makeup on most days. It seems like time better spent on something else when I'm not going anywhere or seeing anyone. But if you are still making the effort, or if you're having one of those days when you just want to make yourself feel better by getting dressed up as if you were going out somewhere - you're going to have to remove all that make up at some point.

That's where I can help... with these DIY makeup remover wipes!

What you'll need:

A container with a lid
Reusable cotton rounds from Queen B's Busy Work
Witch hazel
Oil of your choice

Place your cotton pads into your container. Mix equal parts witch hazel and oil. I like to use grapeseed oil, but you can use coconut or even olive oil. Pour the mixture into the container with the cotton pads and seal.

When you're ready to remove your makeup, just grab one of the pad and wipe it away!

The nice thing about the cotton pads is that they can be washed and reused over and over. No waste!

The One Question I Can (kind of) Answer

2020-03-23T00:00:00.000-04:00

We all seem to have about a million and a half questions about this whole coronavirus pandemic.  Some are easily answered.  Many are more difficult.  I can't help you with most of them.  I'm as clueless as the next person.  But if you're wondering about the safety of my crochet items - that I can answer for you!  (sort of...)

It depends on...

1) The material.  On harder surfaces, like plastic and steel, the virus can last up to 72 hours.  On a more porous surfaces,  the virus only lives up to 24 hours.  

2) Your personal health situation.  If you have underlying health concerns such as a compromised immune system or chronic illness - you want to know where your items are coming from and take extra precautions. Check with your Dr if you have questions about your particular medical diagnosis.

I can tell you that right now, myself and my family are healthy.  And I am leaving my home as little as possible.   If any of us should show any signs of illness, I will stop taking or filling orders for the recommended 14 day quarantine period.  The last thing I would want is to be responsible for getting anyone sick!

I hope that all of you are healthy and are coping well with the new reality we are all currently experiencing.  

Have a BEEautiful Day!

http://queenbsbusywork.etsy.com

This post is in no way intended to be a substitute for
professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of
your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you
may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a
new healthcare regimen, and never disregard medical advice or delay seeing help
because of something you read on this website

(trying to) Stay Calm and Crochet On

2020-03-19T00:00:00.000-04:00

This wasn't how I envisioned returning to the blog. I hoped not to have to write this post. But as the Coronavirus pandemic continues to sweep across the world, I realized the time has come to take a few minutes and address some questions you may have about my Etsy shop during this time of businesses temporary closing and social distancing.

First and foremost - I pray that each and every one of you are staying safe and healthy. Please take care of yourself and others. Practice self-care and patience. I believe we can, and will, get through these uncertain times if we stick together.

I am extremely grateful for your continued support of Queen B's Busy Work. Small, handcraft business owners don't receive sick pay, paid time off, or government bailouts. I hope to continue to provide you with quality hand crocheted products throughout this time and well into the future.

In order to better serve you - I am temporarily discontinuing "Made to Order" listings in the shop. Never fear! There are still plenty of lovely "ready to ship" items available!

With so many businesses having to make the difficult decision to close for the time being, I face uncertainty about whether I will be able to access the yarn needed to complete custom and made-to-order items. Rather than than having to cancel orders and refund your money (not to mention the disappointment that would bring to both of us) - I am temporarily deactivating the listings for most "made to order" items.

I will be taking advantage of this opportunity to use up some of my vast yarn stash and build up the supply of "ready to ship" items.

It is always an honor and a pleasure to be trusted with creating my items for you. Especially now. Truly - THANK YOU for your business!!

A Very Pokemon Birthday

2019-05-15T00:00:00.000-04:00

My grand son is a big Pokémon fan. He gets it from his mom. And his uncle. They both loved Pokémon as kids - and still do. Maybe you have a few people like that in your life also? Anyway... he had been asking me to make him a "blue pokeball" hat for a while, so when his birthday was coming up a few months ago - I knew exactly what one of his gifts would be!

Not having much Pokémon knowledge myself, except for the bare basics that you pick up when you have raised two Pokémon trainer wannabes, I had to spend some times on the ol' Google searching for what exactly a blue Pokeball (which is apparently called a Great Ball) would look like before setting to work.

This was the result of my efforts:

Whenever I would ask him what he wanted for his birthday, he would tell me he wanted a MewTwo plushie. Which he was definitely getting. But I also thought that since I was already in a Pokémon crochet kinda mood - why not make him a MewTwo hat also?

When the day of his family birthday party came, he was thrilled with both!

He wouldn't hold still long enough to get a better picture. Sorry this one is so blurry!

I'm not sure why he kept pulling it down over his eyes. I think maybe he was trying to wear it like a mask

Of course, this whole Pokémon hat thing goes back a few years to when I crafted him a hat inspired by the original Pokeball...

https://www.etsy.com/listing/457192278/

This is why I love doing what I do at Queen B's Busy Work! Almost all of the items in my shop started life as a gift for someone, a request by a friend or family member, or was inspired by a need had by myself or someone I know.

If you're interested in a Pokémon hat of your very own - only my original Pokeball hat is currently listed in the shop. BUT - I love custom orders, so don't hesitate to drop me a message through Etsy, or email me at queenbsbusywork@yahoo.com with your request!

Hippity Hoppity!

2019-04-03T00:00:00.000-04:00

This is your friendly reminder that Easter is right around the corner!

Queen B's Busy Work still has plenty of goodies to help make all your Easter festivities egg-stra special. But you'll want to act quickly - they're hopping out of the shop faster than bunnies can multiply!

The Bunny Ears Hat is always a popular item. They are perfect for Easter pictures and can be either plain or include a trio of pretty pink roses.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/502370623/

Because each hat is created by hand according to the size you need for your little Easter bunny, they need to be ordered no later than Wednesday April 10, 2019 to assure they arrive in time for Easter.

Still looking for some Easter basket filler ideas? How about a lip balm holder with a cute little bunny button. Great for the tween or teen!

https://www.etsy.com/shop/queenbsbusywork/?section_id=23023044

These mini baskets are great for little Easter treats (such as jelly beans), holding a plastic egg with a special surprise inside, or as a holder for your perfectly decorated Easter eggs for Sunday brunch.

https://www.etsy.com/shop/queenbsbusywork/?section_id=23023044

What Spring celebration would be complete without a few carrots? Not this one! Queen B has a limited number of carrot shaped treat bags and cotton dishcloths available!

https://www.etsy.com/listing/516991637/

https://www.etsy.com/listing/512700607/

Hop on over and order your favorite items today. Before some bunny else beats your to them!

OH! The Places You'll Cro! (Mammogram Edition)

2019-03-27T00:00:00.000-04:00

How often do we hear it? Early detection is key in winning the fight against breast cancer. And yet so many women of a certain age skip that oh-so-important step of getting regular mammograms. Maybe you think they're only for "old" women. Maybe you're afraid it will hurt. Maybe you think you don't need one because you do regular self exams. Maybe you're worried about the cost. Whatever your excuse may be, I am here to encourage you to talk to your doctor to determine if you need a screening mammogram and if so - GET ONE!!

Now, if you're excuse is the time involved with going to get your mammogram - I've got another suggestion for you to help pass the time. Take along your crochet!

I went for my regularly scheduled mammogram earlier this week. And my yarn and hooks went right along with me for the journey! In my opinion - anywhere you might go that require some waiting or down time is perfect for squeezing in some extra crocheting.

Here I am starting a crochet project while waiting to be registered at the hospital.

In the radiology waiting area until my name was called:

And as I wait for the tech to come take me to the room with the machine (sporting the snazzy little white waffle-weave robe supplied for you to wear during the procedure):

Now, in all honesty - I didn't have a lot of time for crocheting since my hospital is very efficient and had me in and out in about 30 minutes! (I've never had much of a wait for a mammogram, even at other facilities I have been to.)

They were also very speedy with reading the images. And I am happy to report that there is nothing to report! Everything is good this year and I don't have to back until my next regularly scheduled screening.

Now, please if you haven't had a mammogram this year and it's time - Go Do It Today!!

Does your idea of crochet include sitting at home while doing little to nothing else? Well, surprise! It's actually a very portable, on-the-go kind of hobby! I plan to prove that to you with this blog series. "OH! The Places You'll Cro!" will take you along to various places I may travel... and crochet.

Don't miss the other places I have crocheted!

The Charleston Edition