Vickie Howell | Blog

Tri-light Kerchief: Extended Cut

2013-05-14T09:19:00.002-05:00

Show in colors: Cotton Gin and Gun Powder

My Tri-light kerchief offers a splash of color to any outfit. Knit from the center out, two triangles become one, larger version. This shawl technique is a favorite of mine because it miraculously takes shape before your eyes as you knit. It seems complicated until you try it -- then, a few rows in it'll make sense. I talk more about this method here.

Often though, it's not a new-to-you technique that makes for a more dynamic project -- the ol' standbys that can pack a lot of visual punch! Take for example: stripes.

Above is Tri-light made following the instructions on the label of Cotton-ish. It's simple in a solid, but still interesting because of the juxtaposition of a bulkier texture (made with garter stitch) against a loftier, lace edging. Add a contrasting color (a dark one if you're going for funky) and stripe the lace -- while also extending the lace for several repeats -- and you get a surprisingly different look!

Make this project, then make it your own. Get the pattern here and the yarn at select Jo-ann Stores and on Bernat.com.

xx,
Vickie

Cotton-ish Online + Yes, Yes Shawl Pattern!

2013-05-10T10:41:00.000-05:00

Many of you have been faithfully stalking your local Jo-ann store in hope of finding my new yarn, but unfortunately have struck out (there's still a couple more days for them to get it set-up). First off, I just have to say that that makes me feel all gushy inside. Second, I wanted to let you know that the amazing web team at Bernat (shout out to: Cori, Jen, Kaleigh & Amanda!) hustled their butts off to make Bernat Cotton-ish by Vickie Howell available for purchase online for stitchers NOW!

The Bernat Design Team and I have put together a cool, fun and accessible launch collection to inspire you. I'll take time over the coming weeks to talk about each of them (as well as introduce more!), but today I thought I'd feature one of my favorites by my friend, Nicole: the Yes, Yes Shawl.

Yes Yes Shawl, in color: Lemon Twill

The same shawl can be pretty and sweet, and funky and chic depending on how you wear it. Wrap it around your shoulders for a flirty and feminine look, or wear it like an oversized scarf (I prefer jauntily askew) for a cool and relaxed feel.

Well, whattya waiting for? Head on over to Bernat.com now to nab some Cotton-ish and a free pattern or two to go with it!

xx,

Vickie

P.S. Don't forget to fave/stash it on Ravelry, too!

Bernat Cotton-ish by Vickie Howell: In Stores this Week!

2013-05-06T12:36:00.001-05:00

I'm so excited to announce that it's finally time to "officially" announce the latest, co-branded yarn in my line: Bernat Cotton-ish by Vickie Howell! Beginning this week (anytime between now and 5/11), you'll be able to find it on encaps (that shelving on the end of the aisle) at select, Jo-ann Stores and on Joann.com.

Bernat Cotton-ish by Vickie Howell (just Cotton-ish, for short), is a lightweight, 55% cotton/45% acrylic blend with a tight twist to give it a sproing-y hand. It's lovely, airy drape is perfect for a variety of items including baby layette, toddler clothing, women's tops, lacy shawls, summer beanies, cafe curtains and placemats.

Cotton-ish comes in the rich, saturated colors that are signature to my modern-meets-retro-chic aesthetic. While creating this line, I took to heart the frequent requests I get from mom stitchers who are sick of traditional pastels for babies. Whether you're making something for infant, adult or home, the palette of this line speaks to the trend of mixing bold color with cool neutrals. Each color was hand-picked by me -- using everything from fabric to found objects as inspiration -- and named after something cotton-related (you know how I love a theme!)

Gauge & Washing Info

If you're a fan of my other yarn, Sheep(ish) but prefer not to work with wool during the warmer months, then Cotton-ish is for you! Throughout the Spring and Summer keep your eyes open for new, season-appropriate patterns, blog giveaways, Pinterest galleries, a crochet-along, and more!

In the meantime, here's a look at the free patterns that come on the yarn ball labels.

UPDATE 5/8: All patterns now available on Bernat.com!

Free pattern on the yarn label: Tri-Light Kerchief
Shown in color: Cotton Gin

Free pattern on the yarn label: Sweet & Simple Sundress

Shown in color: Cotton Harvest

Free pattern on the yarn label: Mai Tie
Shown in colors: Cotton Field & Grey T-shirt

Free pattern on the yarn label: Market Bag
Shown in color: Lemon Twill

To find a store near you that carries Vickie Howell for Bernat yarns, check out my store locator app.

Are you a LYS owner who will be carrying Cotton-ish in your store? Post your info so I can add the shop to the finder list!

Psst! I haven't seen it in stores, yet. First three people to snap a picture of the Cotton-ish display (or a selfie of you in front of it) from your local Jo-ann or indie store, get a free bag (3 balls) of Cotton-ish! Just post a link in the comments section of this blog or share a photo on my Facebook wall!

xx,

Vickie

Facebook.com/vickiehowell

Bernat.com/vickiehowell

Craftsy.com/vickie

Pinterest.com/iamvickiehowell

Instagram.com/vickiehowell

Twitter.com/vickiehowell

Stitch.Rock.Knit-along: "Shrug It Off" Photo Recap!

2013-05-01T12:18:00.002-05:00

Supplies ready to go!

Another Knit Simple/Bernat Stitch.Rock.Knit-along has come an a close, and as always I left feeling inspired. This issue's project was 90% crochet, which as the "Stitch.Rock.Knit-along" title suggests, isn't of the norm for this series. I was thrilled to see that the new-to-some craft didn't scare away most of the regulars, and we even had a few knew participants because of it! I love being able to peek at everyone's progress, give tips, share tutorials and otherwise virtually commune with other stitchers. It's an honor and a joy to be the leader of these events. Without further ado, here's a photo recap of the highlights of the Shrug It Out a-long!

How-to Get Started:

Shrug It Out WIPS:

Shrug WIPs (clockwise): Ashleigh Bronner's, Kimberly Ann's, Mary Caron's, NCSneaker's

How-to Pick Up Stitches:

I didn't this video up on my YouTube channel, because it’s quick-and-dirty, and frankly not pretty. Click here though, to watch how to pick up stitches for this project.

Finished Shrug It Outs:

Cora Gordon's Finished Shrug

LauraGB's Finished Shrug

VeganJilly's Finished Shrug

(See her blog post about her process making this project here!)

More FOs (clockwise): TeakKnitPurl's, AnnGreenGables (love the sleeves!), C-Three's,

and Ann Kinderknecht's

See even more works-in-progress and finished shrugs as photos continue to come in by following the Shrug It Off Pinterest board!

Don't forget, the Stitch.Rock.Knit-along posts on Ravelry and Facebook (including diagrams, videos and other resources) stay up forever and always, so you can join in as you have time to.

Don't know how to crochet, but want to learn? Check out my how-to guides or even better, my online course, Crochet Lab on Craftsy!

Keep your peeps peeled for the next issue of Knit Simple and our next Stitch.Rock.Knit-along -- info to come!

xx,
Vickie

Bernat (Not Just for) Baby Blanket

2013-04-30T16:13:00.002-05:00

The last time I visited the Bernat offices the Baby Blanket Puffy Baby Blanket was being passed around the design table. It was so ridiculously soft and comfy that I really wanted to make one for my youngest son. The challenge? Well, at 11-years-old, he's not a baby. Thankfully though, even though the word "baby" is in the yarn's name, there are a few colors in the collection that will work for any age. I chose Baby Sand and Little Sand Castles (currently available on end caps at Jo-ann stores) -- see below for results!

I love the way that color and size can completely change the age specs and look of a project -- you'd never know this pattern was originally designed with infants in mind! For this version I chained 67 (64 + 3 which counts as the first DC), then followed the pattern as-is for the rest of the blanket. For the edging, I opted for half-double crochet.

I'm happy to report, that my kiddo digs his Puffy Pre-Teen Blanket. Oh, and even though he's not a baby anymore, he'll always be mine. :)

xx,

Vickie

Movie Monday (TV Edition): Call the Midwife

2013-04-29T12:02:00.001-05:00

PBS (via BBC) has done it again with another must-see, period episodic. Call the Midwife --just like the network's wildly popular show, Downton Abbey -- is a well-written, finely acted, impeccably directed snapshot of the human experience.

Set in the impoverished slums of London circa late 1950's, Call the Midwife follows the amazing nurses who delivered the babies of the community, and the mother's and father's who soldiered through bringing another life into the world (and often, into horrific conditions.) I'll tell you this, never have I been so happy to be a woman during modern times rather than 70 years ago! Three words: glass tube enema. Yikes. But I digress.

Call the Midwife is available on Netflix now, and as you see below (in addition to be a really good show) is a feast for a yarn-crafter's eyes. Enjoy!

Brioche Stitch Baby Cardigan

Crocheted Baby Blanket

Knit Sailor Hat

Amazing, Crocheted Baby Jacket

Men's Knit Cardigan

Crocheted Baby Blanket

Knitter in the clinic waiting room.

Spike Stitch Cardigan

Recommended Stitching:

Pretty Kiddy Cardigan

Textured Grid Baby Blanket

Baby M Blanket

Feather and Fan Baby Blanket

Baby Sailor Suit

Pea Wee Coat

Kimono Sleeve Cardigan

His & Her Fair Isle Cardigan

Happy viewing; happy stitching!

xx,
Vickie

My Half Hexagon Skirt in Vogue Knitting Crochet Issue!

2013-04-23T09:38:00.001-05:00

I've never designed for Vogue before. I guess that I've gotten so caught up with championing the beginner/intermediate stitchers via magazines like, Knit Simple, that I'd never thought to submit to a mag that caters to the more advanced set. When editor-in-chief, Trisha Malcolm called to ask me to design a skirt in Bernat Handicrafter Crochet Thread for the Summer 2013 Vogue Knitting Crochet issue though, I couldn't pass up the opportunity. I'm happy to announce that the issue is out, and included in it is my Half Hexagon Skirt!

Vogue Knitting Crochet 2013, photo by Rose Callahan

For this design I played with making the hard angles of geometric shapes look soft by using a larger hook and periodic openwork. My shape-crush du jour (is that a thing?) is hexagon (they're totally the new circles ;-)) so for this garment I used both 1/2 and 2/3 version panels. From there, I filled in the rest of the piece with the shapes I needed to create the fit I wanted. Voila!

I love Vogue's rock-a-billy take on styling for the magazine shot. The skirt would also look great though, over a vintage half-slip worn with a t-shirt and boots or flip-flops. Make it, then make it your own!

Here are the specs:

Half Hexagon Skirt

Designer: Vickie Howell

For sizes: Small, Medium, Large, 1X, 2X

Yarn information: Bernat Handicrafter Crochet Thread Amounts: 3 (3, 4, 4, 5) balls in #31011 warm tan 1 ball in #31008 crisp linen

I may be biased, but man, this is of VKC is amazeballs! I'm humbled and honored to have a project included amongst ridiculously talented designers like: Mari Lynn Patrick, Robyn Chachula, Laura Zukaite and Kazekobo. You can see (and "Fave") all of the projects from the issue on Ravelry.

Oh, and don't forget to tag me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or Instagram with your Half Hexagon Skirt WIPS and FOs!

xx,

Vickie

Happy Earth Day!: Alternative Materials Knit & Crochet Projects

2013-04-22T09:09:00.000-05:00

Happy Earth Day, everyone! In honor of the day we pay homage to our planet here a few, knit and crochet projects using alternative materials!

Blueberry Dyed Wool Yarn

Sari Scrap Crochet Bangles

Knit Twine Vase Cozies

Hot-tee Recycled T-shirt, Knit Pot Holder

Every project in our book, Awareknits is eco-conscious in some way, but here are a few that use upcycled materials as yarn.

Crochet Plastic Bag Lunch Tote from AwareKnits

Crochet Save the Tees, T-Shirt Basket from AwareKnits

Crocheted Jute Rug from AwareKnits

Happy eco-stitching!

xx,
Vickie

Movie Monday (TV Edition): Game of Thrones

2013-04-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

Are any of you watching HBO's epic series, Game of Thrones? It's not for the faint of heart, but oh, it is a feast for the eyes! Picture this: a dark, dirty pub that likely stinks of alcohol, body stench and urine. Scarred soldiers and beastly vagrants litter the place, all ready to kill or die during the next bar brawl. Then, one of the most despicable of the bunch, a background character without an ounce of moral standing, rises to threaten a young, lady Arya. He's donning the usual leather and cloth of the time period, but what's this I see? A garter stitch, flow-y cape/vest draped from his ruffian shoulders! I suppose even cretins need to stay cozy. Behold, a couple of iPhone screen shots for your viewing enjoyment!

Alas, neither Bernat nor I have any designs fit for battle. However, we do have flow-y ponchos and wraps!

Recommended Stitching:
Satin Sparkle Chevron Shawl, by Bernat Design Team
Sheep(ish) Bohemian Shawl, by Doris Chan
Bamboo Shoulder Shrug, by Bernat Design Team
Capelet Crusader, from AwareKnits

Just for fun, here's a shot of the Knit Rider, knit chain mail from my very first book, New Knits on the Block.

Happy knitting; happy viewing!

xx,
Vickie

Creative Knitting Review of Step It Up Knits!

2013-04-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

There's nothing nicer for an author than to read a nice review of one of her books over a good cup of coffee in the morning. Today, thanks to the folks at Creative Knitting, I was lucky enough to do just that. Take a moment if you will, to see what they had to say about the projects, tutorials and overall style of Step It Up Knits. Enjoy!

xx,

Vickie

Psst!...for a limited time the Step It Up Knits Kindle edition is only $2.51 on Amazon!

Photo Recap: Vogue Knitting Live, Seattle!

2013-04-09T15:14:00.002-05:00

I'm back from Vogue Knitting Live, Seattle -- and as usual, I had a blast at this show! I got to see a bunch of friends, be inspired by a wealth of talented designers, teach crafty recruits how to knit & crochet at the Bernat Beginner Lounge, giveaway yarn to a bunch of knitters, do a little shopping, show attendees my upcoming yarns, and otherwise just wallow in the goodness that is this knitting show! Here, for your viewing pleasure is a photo recap of my 3 days at VK Live. Enjoy! --Vickie

Visiting the Jo-Ann store in Bellevue with my childhood friend, Heather.

(Psst...my hat is made with Sheep(ish) Stripes, coming in August!)

Spotted a Seattle antique store: vintage Ken set with hand knit cardigan!

Showtime!

Volunteer, Holly teaching the 1st student of the show.

Me coaching 8-year-old, Hazel how to cast-on.

Knitters learning to crochet.

Hooray for men who learn how to knit!

Bernat's Marketing Director gifting prize to giveaway winner.

Knitters milling around before show floor opened.

Marketplace floor.

"So You Want to Work in the Knitting Industry?" Panel

(Panelists R-L: Steven B [Yarn Garage], Cirilia Rose [Skacel], Me [Bernat],

Carol Sulcoski [Black Bunny Yarns])

I'm in love with these, owl-topped hexagonal needles that the folks at

Indian Lake Artisans gave me!

(You have to check 'em out -- each size has a different topper.

I'm definitely going to order the Log Cabin-topped US 15s!)

Hanging knit art installation, by Suzanne Tidwell.

Yarn Installation

Gala Dinner Centerpieces by event sponsor, Skacel

(This would work too, in Bernat Roving!)

Just one of the amazing gifts in the Addi/Skacel Gala gift bags! I'm a lucky gal.

At the Gala with Editor of Vogue Knitting, Trisha Malcolm

One of my knitting besties, Karen Baumer competing in the fastest

knitter competition at the Gala!

I love this Dolman Sleeve Sweater from the Skacel fashion show!

Crowd lined up for the Cascade 220, end-of-show yarn drop.

(I got to be one of the people cutting the ribbons--so fun!)

Step It Up Knits eBook for Only $2.99!--Limited

2013-04-02T10:52:00.001-05:00

Chronicle Books has launched a new ebook promotion program, called Chronicle Eye Candy. Each month selected digital titles will be offered at a discounted rate -- this month, Step It Up Knits has been selected. During April only, you can nab this ebook for only $2.99!

Get my ebook! Now available from your favorite ebook retailers for your favorite device at a special sale price for a limited time only from http://www.chroniclebooks.com/ebook-deals

Enjoy!

xx,
Vickie

Psst! See all of the projects from the book on Pinterest.

New Pattern: Apron Strings for Interweave Crochet

2013-03-29T11:22:00.001-05:00

The Spring '13 issue of Interweave Crochet is out and includes my newly re-named column: Parenthook! The focus of the articles and accompanying projects will now be not general "for the home", but more specifically on different aspects parenting of parenting. First up: cooking!

Spend a little time in the kitchen this season, looking extra cute in my Apron Strings, half-hexigon apron!

Apron Info:

Yarn: Bernat Handicrafter Cotton (100% cotton; 80 yd [73 m]/1¾ oz [50 g]): Robin's egg #13215 (A), 4 balls; hot green # 13712 (B), 2 balls.
Hook Size: G/7 (4.5 mm) Adjust hook size if necessary to obtain correct gauge.
Gauge: 12 dc and 7 rows = 4".

In addition, we've added a lifestyle web component which will include a companion blog post for each project's theme. Up on the CrochetMe blog right now, is my family recipe for Super Yummy, Vegetarian "Beef" Crockpot Chili!

Enjoy!

xx,

Vickie

Join met at Vogue Knitting Live in Seattle!

2013-03-27T13:00:00.001-05:00

Hey, Seattle peeps: I'm headed your way! Come join me as I host the Beginner's Lounge (brought to you by Bernat) at Vogue Knitting Live. If you or someone you know has always wanted to knit or crochet, then we've got you covered! We'll provide Sheep(ish) and Softee Chunky yarn as well as the tools you'll need. We'll even give you instructions for your very first project, if you'd like: these cute, tissue cozies!

Not a beginner? Well, we still wanna see you! Here are a few more reasons to stop by the BL:

Free Patterns: We'll be handing out oodles of knit and crochet project sheets! (while supplies last)

Hourly Giveaways: Fill out an entry at the BL you'll have the chance to win a Shrug It Out kit (Bernat Satin yarn and Knit Simple Spring '13 Magazine). We'll be giving one away EVERY HOUR that the marketplace is open! Psst...this is the shrug project that we'll also be working on for the next, Stitch.Rock.Knit-along beginning April 18th!

Yarn Previews: Be in the know by sneaking a peak of all of Bernat's new yarns for Fall '13!--this includes my new, Sheep(ish) Stripes and Bernat Cotton-ish by Vickie Howell! We'll have them on display so you can see them live, before anyone else!

Get details about Vogue Knitting live on their website.

Hope to see you in Seattle!

xx,

Vickie

New Sheep(ish) Patterns from Guest Designers!

2013-03-25T17:59:00.001-05:00

In case you missed them there are two great, new Sheep(ish) patterns available on the Bernat blog: a pair of lovely wrist warmers by designer, Brenda K.B. Anderson, and an adorable snake plushie by my buddy (and Knit & CrochetNow! host), Brett Bara. Enjoy! xx, Vickie

Mossy Mitts, by Brenda K.B. Anderson

Finished size: One size to fit average Teen or Woman. Approx 7 1/2”/19 cm long x 8 1/2”/21.5 cm hand circumference

Materials Needed
Bernat Sheep(ish) by Vickie Howell (85 g/3 oz; 153 m/167 yds) Olive(ish) (00019) 1 ball.

Size 5 mm (U.S. G/6) crochet hook or size needed to obtain gauge. Yarn needle. 1 button per flower. Needle and matching thread (for button).

Get the free pattern on the Bernat Blog!

Stripey Snake, by Brett Bara

Measurements Approx 15½”/39.5 cm around x 70”/178 cm long

Materials Needed
Bernat Sheep(ish) by Vickie Howell (85 g/3 oz; 153 m/167 yds)
Robin Egg(ish) (00018) 2 balls
Magenta(ish) (00006) 1 ball
Yellow(ish) (00012) 1 ball
Hot Pink(ish) (00007) 1 ball
Chartreuse(ish) (00020) 1 ball
Turquoise(ish) (00017) 1 ball
Pink(ish) (00008) 2 balls
Red(ish) (00015) 1 ball
Lime(ish) (00021) 1 ball
Coral(ish) (00014) 1 ball

Size 5.5 mm (U.S. I/9) crochet hook or size needed to obtain gauge. Stuffing. Small amount of black sport-weight yarn for embroidery. 2 black beads for eyes.

Get the free pattern on the Bernat blog!

Trendspotting: Foxes

2013-03-04T16:09:00.001-06:00

Just like colors and styles come in and out of fashion, so does the usage of certain animals in home decor, fashion and novelty items. Cats are a classic and probably the most used pet in print, owls were EVERYWHERE a few years back, and horses can be found on the coolest of kitsch. The animal at the top of the trend list for the past year or two though, has got to be the fox. This is likely thanks in part to director Wes Anderson's cinematic version of, The Fantastic Mr. Fox (see our Movie Monday coverage here). Or maybe, it's because we're all just so darn foxy! Who knows. Regardless, those sly dogs have crept their way into every product genre possible (and also my heart.) Here are just a few of my favorite be-foxed goodies I found on the interwebs.

Click here for info on these foxy pics!

Like what you're seeing? Well you're in luck, because there's more where that came from! Check out my Foxy Pinboard for *cough* 100+ images of our furry little friends!

Fox Pajama Bag

If you'd like to put your fox where your craft is (wait, what?), then the Bernat Design Team has the perfect project for you: this Fox Pajama Bag!

What You Need:

Free Pattern
Bernat Super Value in colors: Redwood Heather, Natural & Black OR Sheep(ish) by Vickie Howell in colors: Pumpkin(ish), White(ish) & Black(ish)
Size 5mm (US H/8) Crochet Hook

Enjoy, you foxy beasts!
xx,
Vickie

Free Pattern for Jo-Ann.com: Leggypop Warmers!

2013-03-01T08:42:00.004-06:00

Leggypop!

Warmer weather is on the horizon, but some light-weight warmers will have legs for at least a few months. Check out my free, Leggypop pattern using Bernat Satin, on the Jo-ann blog.

Guest Designer Feature

While you're there, give my interview post a read where we talk about creative influence, finding time, and the truth about the creativity within ALL of us.

Oh, and in case you missed it on Facebook, I'm also guest pinning for Jo-Ann this month! See the board here.

xx,
Vickie

Free Pattern: Clover Hair Clips

2013-02-28T12:23:00.000-06:00

As the mother of a child named, "Clover" I have a soft spot for shamrocks. With St. Patrick's Day coming up though, what little lass couldn't use a pair of Clover Hair Clips? Enjoy!

Materials
1 ball (or scraps) of Sheep(ish) by Vickie Howell, in color: Chartreuse(ish) -- or any equivalent, worsted-weight yarn
Size US H/5 mm crochet hook
Tapestry Needle
Sewing Needle & Thread
Small hair clips

Abbreviations
ch = chain
dc = double crochet
hdc = half double crochet
rep = repeat
sc = single crochet
sl st = slip stitch
st(s) = stitch(es)
tr = triple (treble) crochet

Don't know how to crochet? Take my online workshop, Crochet Lab on Craftsy!

Finished Measurement
2 1/2"/6.25 cm from clover top end of stem.

How-To

Crochet clover applique: (make 2 for clip set)

Ch 4; join round with a sl st to create center loop.

Leaves: *[Ch 2, hdc, dc, tr, dc, hdc, sl st] all in center loop; rep from * three times more (it'll be a snug fit, but that's ok.)

Stem: Ch 6, sc in 2nd ch from hook and next 4 sts, sl st in center loop. Fasten off.

Hand-sewn clip to applique.

Using tapestry needle, weave in yarn ends.

Using needle & thread, hand-sew hair clip to back of clover.

Finished Clover Clips.

5 More Ways to Use Clover Appliques

Make a bunch and string together for a St. Paddy's Day garland.
Adorn a package with one for your favorite lad or lassie.
Sew a few on a wee denim skirt.
Hot glue onto heavy weight paper for a shramrock-sweet greeting card.
Attach earring findings for a kitschy pair of ear baubles.

Step It Up Knits + Yarn Market News

2013-02-27T18:49:00.000-06:00

It's pretty cool to get a copy of industry mag, Yarn Market News in the mail and see the cover emblazoned with the title of my latest book! Ok, that's not entirely accurate. Their call to action for the yarn business-types isn't related to my book at all...but, there IS a review of Step It Up Knits in the same issue. Check it out, wontcha! Thanks!--Vic

Photo Recap: Ikea Textile Event

2013-02-22T17:13:00.001-06:00

Yesterday our local Ikea store held a Textile Event to get Austin crafters excited about this season's looks. Since I'd been needing to take a trip out there (it's about 45 minutes from home) anyway, I was more than happy to accept the invitation.

When I got there I was expecting a crowd, and possibly craft tables set up with an activity using the fabrics. It turned out though, to really just be more of a living catalogue showcasing several ways to utilize fabric in home decor and make the most of any space. Since I'm kind of a lookie loo, this was fine by me! Here's some of what me and my mini-sidekick (aka my 3 1/2-year-old daughter) saw.

In this room, they've used fabric as art by stretching one of their prints over canvas stretchers. The cabinet doors are lined with a contrasting fabric, which can be swapped out at your every whim!

Their red room shows how to have high-impact in a small space.

This room plays to a modern esthetic with it's graphic prints and cool colors.

Their rustic room includes raw-looking, wooden furniture with heavy hardware, and traditional Swedish prints.

One of the rooms doubled as both dining and craft room. I love the fabrics hanging on a garment rack and the ruler painted on the wall! The most adorable thing though, is the sewing machine they now sell. It's compact with a decent amount of stitches, and affordably priced. This would be a great starter machine for any DIY-er.

Of course, I love the doily print of this bedding set. I've had a grey version of it at home for a couple of years that I still haven't opened. I keep thinking I'll pull a Maria Von Trapp, and make myself a skirt out of it. Said mythical skirt would be perfect paired with a crocheted top designed out of yarn from my line. It's good to have crafty pipe dreams.

Clover and I were ladies who lunch, courtesy of the in-store cafe.

The best part of the event, though? The parting gift. The Ikea folks gave me what appeared to be a little textile bundle, but turned out to be 2 yards of home dec fabric! I suddenly want to buy a cabin so I have a place to put some homemade, tree stump-print pillows! Again: crafty pipe dreams.

You can see the current line of Ikea textiles here. Enjoy!

xx,

Vickie

New Booklet: Top Ten Crochet Hats

2013-02-15T11:55:00.002-06:00

My 8th book(ish) (does a booklet count as a book?), Top Ten Crocheted Hats is out now exclusively at Joann stores. Here's a glimpse at a handful of the projects inside!

Make any of these hats in a weekend (or evening) --adding a pop of color (using my Sheep(ish) yarn, of course) to your winter wardrobe has never been so easy.

Happy hat-making, crocheters!

xx,

Vickie

Love Crochet this Valentine's Day!

2013-02-14T05:00:00.000-06:00

'Tis the season to nurture your love of crafty learning! Beginning today, Craftsy gifts you up to 75% off of ALL of their online classes, include Crochet Lab. Join the 6,000+ students who've already taken my course, but for a limited time for only $10! Click here to nab it, and see all of the classes on sale.

Love crochet this Valentine's Day!

xo,

Vickie

Valentine's Day Pinsperation

2013-02-12T11:39:00.003-06:00

How is it only February, and I already feel really behind this year? Back when I had my I Love to Create or PBS Parents column, I would've had a couple of heart inspired how-tos for you by now. Alas, though I've been focused on behind-the-scene promo stuff for my other gigs, so we'll have to settle for staring longingly at some of the beautiful projects created by others, and pinned by me. Here's a glimpse at some of the projects inspiring me this month.

Click to enlarge.

My 3 1/2 year-old daughter and I have put a couple of the pre-schooler friendly DIYdeas into action, by making out own versions. The first one was this magnet experiment. My version uses an empty peanut butter container, some glitter tape, and a bunch of Valentine-inspired items. Most items had metal in them (pipe cleaners, bells, paper clips, etc.), but others (pom poms, sequin, etc.) did not. Clover had fun seeing how the magnet worked to attract the metal items, while leaving the other items alone.

V-Day Magnet Experiment

Clover had fun seeing how the magnet worked to attract the metal items, while leaving the other items alone. Admittedly though, she's had more fun shaking the jar at the cat while chasing him around.

The second activity we played with came from this pin. This is one of those, "why didn't I think of that" ideas: use a smooshed toilet paper roll to paint heart stamps on paper. Here's our version.

T.P. Heart Stamp

Sweet, simple and makes great wrapping for those Valentine's gifts!

Looking for more Love Day inspiration? Check out my V-Day Pinterest board for the items shown in this post and more!

xx,

Vickie

Photo Recap: Vogue Knitting Live, NYC

2013-02-07T09:19:00.000-06:00

January is always a whirlwind of conventions and industry events. The one I always look forward to most though, is Vogue Knitting Live in New York City. This year, over 7,000 knitters and crocheters took over the Marriott Marquis, at the heart of Time Square -- it was a blast! There were loads of classes taught by the most amazing instructors, lectures, panels, cocktail parties, fashion shows and of course, a HUGE marketplace. As always, I was there, too hosting the Bernat Beginner Lounge, and passing out yarn and patterns to attendees. I had a great time, and thought I'd share with you a little peak inside the experience. Enjoy!

Beginner Lounge

Event volunteer, teaching one of our male students to knit.

Students sit at one of our communal tables, learning how to knit and crochet.

Sitting knee-to-knee with a left-handed stitcher, so she can learn to crochet by mirroring me.

Artist's Gallery

Clockwise: Knitting with Swords, Jo Hamilton's Crocheted Portraits, Garments by
Rhode Island School of Design Students

Installation piece, by Allison Hrachovec of Mochimochiland

Gala Dinner

What, you don't carry yarn in your evening bag?

Before dinner with my dear friend, Tiffany. We've been in a private,
online knitting group together for 10 years|

With designer/VKL instructor, Josh Bennett.

Actress, Karen Allen (Raiders of the Lost Ark) was the Keynote Speaker. She's also a knitwear designer known for her extraordinary use of color.

Event sponsor, Zealana hosted a fashion show featuring their yarn, Zealana Air.

You can see more of my photos from Vogue Knitting Live on Flickr, and read Vogue's recap of the New York show here.

Next up: Vogue Knitting Live, Seattle! Get the scoop here.

Hope to see you at a future, VK Live!

xx, Vickie

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Movie Monday: Tangled

2013-01-28T12:08:00.003-06:00

This week's Movie Monday comes courtesy of one of my daughter's favorite flicks: Disney's Tangled. I love how the knit garment was used as wardrobe for one of the burly brutes (don't let the "jazz hands" and mime make-up fool you) in the perilous bar scene. Is it me, or is his cap-sleeved top actually kind of cute? Picture it tailored for a woman's shape. I'd totally wear it!

Waffle Stitch Top

Photo: Disney

Recommended Stitching:
Sheep(ish): Topside Cardi, by Vickie Howell
Bamboo: Deep V Cardi, by Bernat Design Team
Bamboo: Leaf Top, by Bernat Design Team

Happy viewing; happy stitching!

xx,
Vickie