tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39500397098278667842024-03-14T13:48:59.028-05:00Knots and LoopsDonnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.comBlogger173125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-46235643703033520762012-10-28T12:05:00.001-05:002012-10-28T12:12:09.416-05:00Boot Cuffs PreviewAn actual new design?! Well...not really a new concept, but I'm seeing these everywhere and wanted a pair of my own. So I created my own version of the boot cuffs. Three different varieties too! From very basic to a little more advanced (but still easy).
I'm teaching a beginner crochet class soon and needed fun project in the most basic pattern that could be completed quickly. I thought the boot cuffs were the perfect item and wrote up a basic pattern. I will be offering this pattern for free.
<b>NGOZI BOOT CUFFS</b>
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The boot cuffs pictured below were going to be used, but I thought that the technique may be confusing for a complete newbie and that something more basic was more appropriate to teach in such a small time frame (3-5 hours). Nonetheless, I loved the way these turned out and started making some for sale in my Etsy shop and a craft festival I'll be doing in about a month.
<b>OBIUTO RIBBED BOOT CUFFS</b>
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The last pair of boot cuffs I'll preview here is my favorite. Love the stitch pattern and the versatility of being able to wear them either way up and using two colors. It's really like creating 4 cuffs and only actually working 2 cuffs. I think everyone likes the idea of an item that is multi-functional. I've been making these for sale also. They take longer to create than the other two pair, but it is still a quick proejct and your friends will LOVE you for making them a pair!
<b>ADAKU CONVERTIBLE BOOT CUFFS</b>
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Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-58512259642659143992012-09-14T14:24:00.001-05:002012-09-14T15:07:58.234-05:00Yarn Bombs Galore!
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Okay…it’s been another long hiatus between blog entries, but this definitely merits mentioning here. I’m still recovering from last week’s events. What events? Well…I had the largest yarn bomb that I have created featured at the Birmingham Museum of Art. An entire car…well, probably one of the smallest cars available, but still! The event was called Art on the Rocks, which is a fun event that they put on in the summer months. It was the last Art on the Rocks event, right before the Andy Warhol exhibit was scheduled to leave. The design of the yarn bomb was inspired by Andy Warhol’s vibrant use of color, and The Rainbow Fish. To my surprise, I even ended up on the FRONT PAGE of <a href="http://www.al.com/entertainment/index.ssf/2012/09/birmingham_museum_of_art_displ.html">The Birmingham News</a>! You will rarely see my photo, since I’m horribly unphotogenic (is that a word?)…and I even tried to convince the newspaper reporter that he could focus on the car and that I didn’t really feel comfortable being photographed, that I would end up being embarrassed by it and I didn’t want to feel that way after all of the work that went into the piece. Long story short, two of my friends that were there convinced me to take the photo with the car, and I did it quickly just to get it over with and hoped for the best. I didn’t HATE the photo, which is saying a lot. I took the entire week off work so that I could focus on this project. This was my "week of living like a full time artist". I thought it would be relaxing, but I was so filled with anxiety and stayed so stressed trying to finish everything. There were nights where I didn't get more than a couple hours of sleep and I still feel like I'm exhausted, but have been on a crochet break this week. I've never felt so under the gun, but I was so pleased that so many people got a chance to see it.
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There were a few other pieces sprinkled around the museum the entire weekend, and I did a live yarn bombing on Thursday installing the “CREATE” piece on the stairwell and a really long installment on the hand railing. I also got to display my “CAROUSEL HORSE” yarn bomb that I completed last year for the first time in public. It was featured on a Fox 6 News. JeJe Pruitt wanted to speak with me on camera (live), but I just could not bring myself to do that. I felt like I would have said something stupid, or become overwhelmed with emotion and just started crying…I just had a feeling I would have embarrassed myself and asked Carrie Montgomery to speak on my behalf. She is so at ease in front on the cameras and she did a great job.
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I also need to add a photo of the yarn bomb I did to Miss Fancy in Avondale Park (Birmingham, Alabama).Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-48274560421434145552012-06-25T23:07:00.001-05:002012-06-25T23:28:41.903-05:00City Neckwarmer - free crochet patternI use this pattern to teach a 2 session class. Leaving the students with homework, the practice of repeating rows and becoming comfortable with crocheting. This pattern teaches the students to begin and create a new row, and basic increasing. Much more fun than the standard scarf or washcloth for beginners. Feel free to try it for your beginner crochet class, makes a great first project.
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/city-neckwarmer">FOR PDF DOWNLOAD CLICK HERE</a>
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Copyright © 2012 Donna Rutledge-Okoro, all rights reserved. No pattern or other material may be reproduced or distributed – mechanically, electronically, or by any other means, including photocopying and posting to websites – without written permission from Donna Rutledge-Okoro. Pattern is for personal use only, however, you may sell finished items made from this pattern but please reference pattern source in ALL online listings. Do not post photos of construction. For email assistance and/or corrections, please contact Donna Rutledge Okoro at: MsSunflwr@yahoo.com.Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-1720262738124264522012-02-25T19:56:00.005-06:002012-02-25T20:16:28.162-06:00Chez Lulu Yarn Bomb<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-peV7UPIEwQE/T0mVEdjxr2I/AAAAAAAAAR0/9SwzYXG2qbY/s1600/100_5975.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-peV7UPIEwQE/T0mVEdjxr2I/AAAAAAAAAR0/9SwzYXG2qbY/s320/100_5975.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713261506182885218" /></a><br /><br /><br />In celebration of Sugar's birthday, Ordra and I took her to <strong>our</strong> favorite place to dine...Chez Lulu in English Village. If you live in Birmingham, AL and have never been there (or neighboring Continental Bakery), you have to try it. We shared a variety of favorite dishes, wine and just laughed and enjoyed each others company. That place never disappoints. The waiter didn't even seem to notice when I was yarn bombing one of the chairs, not even when I was holding the chair between my ankles at a 45 degree angle. We were kinda tucked away in an alcove so, none of the other patrons noticed either. I think he was pre-occupied with how much fun we were having, he was an awesome waiter. I felt compelled to leave a yarn bomb there, since it's been a favorite spot for over 10 years now...AND it was Sugar's birthday. I thought about this at the last minute and was totally unprepared, not even a scrap of yarn in the car or a hook. Stopped by the Walmart on the way over though, their hook selection was pathetic, actually had to get a Tunisian crochet hook (always wanted to learn that anyways). Did the trick though. At least they had yarn in her favorite color.Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-87551506322146735022011-11-17T14:04:00.004-06:002011-11-17T14:11:57.370-06:00Crochet updateNow that was a long stretch without a blog update. I've been extremely busy though and felt the need to update. The most recent being some of my yarn bombed chairs are being exhibited at the <a href="http://jenniferharwellart.com/">Jennifer Harwell gallery</a>. I love the way that she has them displayed in the front of the gallery. I've also been taking in custom orders and preparing for the Craft Bazaar (18 days from now). I don't feel as prepared as I should be, it's definitely crunch time at this point. Oh...last month, my friend Tracy and I did a yarn bomb in support of Race for the Cure. I can't get enough of the yarn bombing. My aunt (2 year survivor) has one of the larger pieces I made, and my mother and grandmother also rescued a piece as well. The rest were gone by the end of the weekend. I did get a few pics. I have realized that I haven't created any new designs all year. There actually were a couple of designs created that ended up jotted down in a composition notebook. So eventually, I am hoping to have them typed up, tested and available at some point. I will admit it is liberating to create something completely artistic, with no rhyme or reason and no rules to adhere to. I'll try to update with better pics soon. I'm really glad to see the weather changing, this is my favorite time of year. For those of us who knit and crochet, its the busiest time of year.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--1_ZPiP0Q_I/TsHiuYgTWYI/AAAAAAAAAPY/IL7OVzNO_04/s1600/100_5874.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--1_ZPiP0Q_I/TsHiuYgTWYI/AAAAAAAAAPY/IL7OVzNO_04/s320/100_5874.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675066291943332226" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q7N8kF6qgVs/TsHit5Dm5CI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/D6EVLrTvx1w/s1600/100_5851.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q7N8kF6qgVs/TsHit5Dm5CI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/D6EVLrTvx1w/s320/100_5851.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675066283501478946" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-89pdHVkebWo/TsHitSCvftI/AAAAAAAAAPA/voRGUhc79ZI/s1600/100_5842.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-89pdHVkebWo/TsHitSCvftI/AAAAAAAAAPA/voRGUhc79ZI/s320/100_5842.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675066273028865746" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cKhaCflVqp4/TsHis9Efz6I/AAAAAAAAAO0/PERmBWfLRPw/s1600/100_5837.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cKhaCflVqp4/TsHis9Efz6I/AAAAAAAAAO0/PERmBWfLRPw/s320/100_5837.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675066267399081890" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7qH9Qb1_jtM/TsHisk2LtXI/AAAAAAAAAOo/xrY4DIc_gcI/s1600/100_5830.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7qH9Qb1_jtM/TsHisk2LtXI/AAAAAAAAAOo/xrY4DIc_gcI/s320/100_5830.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675066260896593266" /></a>Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-11782137610292978942011-11-14T21:25:00.017-06:002011-11-28T19:58:31.401-06:00FREE PATTERN OFFER !!!If you are here for the free pattern offer, here's how it works...very simple.<br />For a limited time, I will offer <em><strong><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MsSunflwr?section_id=5632754">ANY PATTERN IN MY ETSY SHOP FREE WITH A $10 PURCHASE</a></strong></em> from <a href="http://www.oruaka.etsy.com">my husand, William's shop</a>! <br /><br /><strong>Here's what you do. </strong> Any purchase made, simply include your pattern selection in the NOTES TO SELLER, or an Etsy convo. Your pattern will be delived via email (email provided in Etsy invoice) in PDF format. <em>Limit one pattern per person, not including pattern bundle ($5.99 value only).</em><br /><br />I'm still enamored by the buttons he creates and feel lucky to have them at my choosing (usually). This is perfect for this time of year! You could shorten your Christmas list by making the Ziela Cowl (offered together with the Uchenna Cowl), and select hand crafted wood buttons to make them even more special. The toggle buttons below are by far my favorite type for the Ziela cowl: <br /> <br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s3M2p9cuH5w/TsHnPUp6u-I/AAAAAAAAAPk/gBxNnUvlhdQ/s1600/il_570xN_278380257.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 252px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s3M2p9cuH5w/TsHnPUp6u-I/AAAAAAAAAPk/gBxNnUvlhdQ/s320/il_570xN_278380257.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675071255892114402" /></a><br /><br />Or, you could select a beautifully hand crafted set of hair sticks, which are also nice worn as a shawl pin. This would go perfectly with an extra long Amarachi scarf handmade by you.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0sHNV6nPqMo/TsWywmy0s6I/AAAAAAAAAQ4/PFLo-0BKoqA/s1600/il_fullxfull.279493092%255B1%255D.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 260px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0sHNV6nPqMo/TsWywmy0s6I/AAAAAAAAAQ4/PFLo-0BKoqA/s320/il_fullxfull.279493092%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676139453487559586" /></a><br /><br />There are hoop earrings...<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q-5y0Dnlo4c/TsWwgkl1HAI/AAAAAAAAAQs/DRGeU2ii0iU/s1600/il_fullxfull.285766820%255B1%255D.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 248px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q-5y0Dnlo4c/TsWwgkl1HAI/AAAAAAAAAQs/DRGeU2ii0iU/s320/il_fullxfull.285766820%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676136978995026946" /></a><br /><br />and stud earrings...<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WhvNvvu0GKU/TsW0RU5ipMI/AAAAAAAAARo/aTlLO7z2FpY/s1600/il_fullxfull.287006072%255B1%255D.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 250px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WhvNvvu0GKU/TsW0RU5ipMI/AAAAAAAAARo/aTlLO7z2FpY/s320/il_fullxfull.287006072%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676141115131208898" /></a><br /><br />cufflinks...<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q64cR4KKjuU/TsWwgKP2L1I/AAAAAAAAAQk/e30UcJbBGDY/s1600/il_fullxfull.281824113%255B1%255D.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 275px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q64cR4KKjuU/TsWwgKP2L1I/AAAAAAAAAQk/e30UcJbBGDY/s320/il_fullxfull.281824113%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676136971923500882" /></a><br /><br />rings...<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ouscZO-gtOM/TsWyxoQbO7I/AAAAAAAAARc/AD0fAoHzA44/s1600/il_fullxfull.284933806%255B1%255D.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 255px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ouscZO-gtOM/TsWyxoQbO7I/AAAAAAAAARc/AD0fAoHzA44/s320/il_fullxfull.284933806%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676139471060024242" /></a><br /><br />all types of buttons...<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bT96Z_RWjkc/TsWwfkFLaAI/AAAAAAAAAQU/jECs6L0A-tI/s1600/il_fullxfull.275471430%255B1%255D.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 262px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bT96Z_RWjkc/TsWwfkFLaAI/AAAAAAAAAQU/jECs6L0A-tI/s320/il_fullxfull.275471430%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676136961678206978" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a1u79zXn0OQ/TsWyw4Cd5xI/AAAAAAAAARE/_wcuQu61hfg/s1600/il_fullxfull.283760617%255B1%255D.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 254px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a1u79zXn0OQ/TsWyw4Cd5xI/AAAAAAAAARE/_wcuQu61hfg/s320/il_fullxfull.283760617%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676139458116577042" /></a><br /><br />shawl pins...<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eLO3DV2Qfzk/TsWwfXHmxiI/AAAAAAAAAQE/3uHsATl1fZE/s1600/il_fullxfull.285469061%255B1%255D.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 259px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eLO3DV2Qfzk/TsWwfXHmxiI/AAAAAAAAAQE/3uHsATl1fZE/s320/il_fullxfull.285469061%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676136958198728226" /></a><br /><br />hair forks...<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3XDfiBPPXw0/TsWwfb6NeWI/AAAAAAAAAP8/MdZLX6jOaw4/s1600/il_fullxfull.286885053%255B1%255D.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 263px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3XDfiBPPXw0/TsWwfb6NeWI/AAAAAAAAAP8/MdZLX6jOaw4/s320/il_fullxfull.286885053%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676136959484721506" /></a><br /><br />barettes...<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qtPTJavlGlo/TsWyxCKNu1I/AAAAAAAAARU/nLeU-x5vAKQ/s1600/il_fullxfull.285713866%255B1%255D.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 262px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qtPTJavlGlo/TsWyxCKNu1I/AAAAAAAAARU/nLeU-x5vAKQ/s320/il_fullxfull.285713866%255B1%255D.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676139460833426258" /></a><br /><br />Something for everyone!Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-57877774647278056022011-10-09T09:06:00.008-05:002011-10-09T09:42:19.802-05:00<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0oxWcWXP0UU/TpGwI0ucJ0I/AAAAAAAAAOY/NwV2muSUf18/s1600/100_5800.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0oxWcWXP0UU/TpGwI0ucJ0I/AAAAAAAAAOY/NwV2muSUf18/s320/100_5800.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5661499872220292930" /></a><br />Preparing for another yarn bomb. A bit last minute and only a week to prepare! This one has a color theme, which is kinda nice because all of the smaller pieces seem to go together as one large piece. Even though this is already a busy weekend, I'm trying to make as many in the color theme as possible since Friday we will assemble everything. I can't wait to see how it looks together with Tracy's pieces...hopefully pretty amazing. I've had to put a few things on the back burner to get this finished by Friday. I'm under a deadline to finish some yarn bombed pieces for a gallery showing next month, just glad that the largest piece is covered and only needs a little embellishment, but still a lot of smaller projects still undone. I'm a little worried about it, good thing I work well under pressure. I'll be able to make up for lost time next weekend, a serious marathon planned, new audiobook downloaded and looking forward to it. As far as today, it looks like I'll be out of the house the entire afternoon, so not much will be done as far as crocheting. The possibility of having some photos taken (which desperately needs to be done for the Etsy shop)is promising though, so not a total waste precious down time on my last day off before the event.Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-81257229286117850432011-06-24T15:37:00.007-05:002011-06-24T18:52:00.116-05:00Ch-Ch-Ch-Ch-Ch-Chair-y Bomb!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XPRiGpsS-ko/TgT3OWNkK0I/AAAAAAAAAOA/pj2A-zSlhqs/s1600/chair-y%2Bbomb%2BNo.%2B1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 232px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XPRiGpsS-ko/TgT3OWNkK0I/AAAAAAAAAOA/pj2A-zSlhqs/s320/chair-y%2Bbomb%2BNo.%2B1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621890060717927234" /></a><br /><strong>CHAIR-Y BOMB</strong><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QRjj3Xkb4BU/TgT7CQPpwaI/AAAAAAAAAOI/DiMxhNPb8q0/s1600/May2011_040_medium2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QRjj3Xkb4BU/TgT7CQPpwaI/AAAAAAAAAOI/DiMxhNPb8q0/s320/May2011_040_medium2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621894251004150178" /></a><br /><strong>"NESSIE"</strong><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SueHoYOiHz0/TgT7kpR-jLI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/OFtfhF2bg2I/s1600/DSC_1530edit_edited-1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SueHoYOiHz0/TgT7kpR-jLI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/OFtfhF2bg2I/s320/DSC_1530edit_edited-1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621894841840340146" /></a><br /><br />I know an update is long overdue...my hands are still busy stitching, so that's my excuse for the lack of blogging. My mother's bedspread is still unfinished, but at least she has decided that she wants a Queen sized bedspread instead of King since she has finally decided to downsize her bedroom furniture. This time of year I'm usually trying to get as much inventory as I can get done for the Fall season, my Etsy shop is empty except for patterns right now. It seems that whenever I prepare to work on inventory, another commissioned job seems to come up. So glad I really enjoy the work, especially around this time of year, which is usually pretty slow when it comes to crochet items. <br /><br />I've done a couple more yarn bombing projects lately. On May 23rd, "Traci" (the accomplice) and I yarn bombed the front of the YMCA for a health fair. They really seemed to enjoy it and actually brought tables out front (which I had never seen them do in the past). There are actually a few pieces that are still out front, including the bike rack cover that was inspired by the Loch Ness Monster. The last piece I did was the child's chair "Chair-y Bomb" for a church benefit. I was told by the artist who commissioned me (and many other artists to paint or decorate chairs which were all auctioned) that my chair brought in the most $$$. We are discussing future yarn bombing projects for the very near future. <br /><br />Lastly...I'm somewhat reluctantly getting into the photography props game as well and recently got a few professional photos of my first pieces. It's difficult for me to enter this field because of the sizing questions and then taking photos that are effective (without using any of those creepy life sized baby dolls). Still tweaking a few patterns, but I think I'm off to a pretty good start. There is also a new shrug pattern close to completion also. Stay tuned!Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-81461523819034688462011-03-21T11:47:00.007-05:002011-03-28T09:05:49.350-05:00<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4kcyI4W26Lw/TY_jIAEGEKI/AAAAAAAAANM/WKgi87Kqnmg/s1600/100_5113.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4kcyI4W26Lw/TY_jIAEGEKI/AAAAAAAAANM/WKgi87Kqnmg/s320/100_5113.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588935389185708194" /></a><br />My hands have been busy stitching, finishing up the last of my custom orders just a few weeks ago. I am now trying to focus on the gift I had intended to finish by Christmas, (so many custom orders prevented me from working on it much at all) my mother’s specially requested king sized bed spread. It’s a little more than half done at this point, and so beautiful. I wish I could keep it for myself. She also requested pillow shams…we’ll see. There are A LOT of squares still left to be completed…all the same color. I’d like to finish this so I can have complete creative freedom and hopefully get a few new patterns done for this coming fall. When I have a big project like this that I’m trying to complete, I like to listen to audio books along the way. The last couple I listened to were re-visits of a couple of old favorites that I had actually read many years ago, so I purchased them on cds and listened from my mp3 player. I’m presently listening to a book I’ve owned, but haven’t taken the time to read (my text version is 1,138 pages), from a favorite author. Stephen King’s It. Based on the customer reviews, I had to get it and make this my next long listen since it was FINALLY available on audio. The narrator (Steven Weber) is superb! And I’ve heard some truly awful narrators. I’m about half way into the story right now, and I already know it will be a new favorite.<br /><br />Other than that, I finally finished preparing my flower beds for spring. I widened the front bed and created another on the opposite side using the lasagna method. I also used hypertufa stones to border the beds. Since my Rosemary plant is flourishing, I plan to plant a few more favorite herbs in front along with some perennials. I'm pretty excited about selecting them. I also created a raised bed in the back/side of my house which I intend to use as a salad garden. I'm a little nervous about the "critters" that I may discovery, but I am arming myself with some gardening weapons and working on my courage also. Looking at all my little sprouts inside just aching to get outside in the new bed is helping. I want to see them thrive. We'll see how it goes.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LXWAXqy4v6w/TY_ktGcoG5I/AAAAAAAAANU/_L38F3DldfA/s1600/100_5120.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LXWAXqy4v6w/TY_ktGcoG5I/AAAAAAAAANU/_L38F3DldfA/s320/100_5120.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588937126066002834" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-85R3TwVAXsk/TY_k8uUzomI/AAAAAAAAANc/AKogaihH_ps/s1600/100_5116.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-85R3TwVAXsk/TY_k8uUzomI/AAAAAAAAANc/AKogaihH_ps/s320/100_5116.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588937394468659810" /></a>Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-1490021256910341772011-01-10T10:54:00.003-06:002011-01-10T11:01:12.115-06:00Snow Day Sale - 15% YAY!!!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TSs6bSJiczI/AAAAAAAAAM8/-UVEH2sIIWA/s1600/100_4865.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TSs6bSJiczI/AAAAAAAAAM8/-UVEH2sIIWA/s320/100_4865.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560602405321732914" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TSs6bdZMGEI/AAAAAAAAAM0/Ul-hhbfcJQw/s1600/100_4868.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TSs6bdZMGEI/AAAAAAAAAM0/Ul-hhbfcJQw/s320/100_4868.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560602408340166722" /></a><br /><br />What a rare treat I have today! Snow fell on Alabama…and ICE, so NO WORK TODAY…yippee!<br /><br />William and I were ill prepared for the storm because we had been immersed in a home renovation project that took a while longer than expected. A newly renovated office (laminate floors, paint, new desk, etc.) and new floors in the kitchen. <br /><br />This is the first morning that we were able to sit at our new workspace, clad in pj’s and sipping hazelnut coffee…the beautiful snowy view from the patio was like the reward for all the hard work.<br /><br />I my giddy-snow day-hookey day tone, I suggested him… “You should have a snow day sale today”. He chuckled, and I think he dismissed me because he continued doing whatever it was he was doing. I reminded him that he never paid up on the bet that he lost wherein he stated LAST MONDAY, “This floor will be done TODAY.” He sheepishly looked at me again. “You owe me…AND you had ALL WEEK and still didn’t deliver what you promised on Monday”. So…long story a little shorter, my husband will be providing 15% off your purchase of tree branch and exotic wood buttons today . These buttons look so great on hand knit and crochet items.<br /><br />His shop can be found here: http://www.oruaka.etsy.com.<br />Please use Coupon Code JAN10SNOWDAY to receive your 15% off today only!Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-88251727611654090202010-12-04T18:21:00.008-06:002010-12-06T19:59:57.248-06:00Bottletree Craft Bazaar 2010 - DAY TWO<div align="center"><strong>MY BOOTH </strong></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 241px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547752892941193922" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TP2T3OVn0sI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/4mV9ehlc-qU/s320/103_8782.JPG" /></a>
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TP2UQhZjELI/AAAAAAAAAMg/zEFjzXr7sO4/s1600/103_8778.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 241px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547753327554662578" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TP2UQhZjELI/AAAAAAAAAMg/zEFjzXr7sO4/s320/103_8778.JPG" /></a>
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TP2UQZ5mR4I/AAAAAAAAAMY/38F66XLG5g4/s1600/103_8780.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 241px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547753325541607298" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TP2UQZ5mR4I/AAAAAAAAAMY/38F66XLG5g4/s320/103_8780.JPG" /></a>
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TP2UmjM5lYI/AAAAAAAAAMo/5JdrLmX8Mn4/s1600/103_8786.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 241px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547753705995605378" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TP2UmjM5lYI/AAAAAAAAAMo/5JdrLmX8Mn4/s320/103_8786.JPG" /></a>
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<br /><p align="center"></a></p><strong>SOME OTHER ARTISTS IN THE LAKE BUILDING LOCATION </strong><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TPrc-AnuZwI/AAAAAAAAALw/Cf3XaXl_u6s/s1600/100_4813.JPG"><strong><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546988848936806146" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TPrc-AnuZwI/AAAAAAAAALw/Cf3XaXl_u6s/s320/100_4813.JPG" /></strong></a>
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TPreW5AMU8I/AAAAAAAAAL4/2qywoCb5esg/s1600/100_4807.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546990375900304322" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TPreW5AMU8I/AAAAAAAAAL4/2qywoCb5esg/s320/100_4807.JPG" />
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<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TPrgrkGnkjI/AAAAAAAAAMI/q4obvNaGwUU/s1600/100_4811.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546992930090619442" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TPrgrkGnkjI/AAAAAAAAAMI/q4obvNaGwUU/s320/100_4811.JPG" /></a>
<br /><p align="center"></a><strong></strong></p>
<br /><p align="center"><strong>BEST BOOTH DESIGN</strong> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TPrc9yr1TMI/AAAAAAAAALo/ubyXt9FuMR0/s1600/100_4810.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546988845195939010" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TPrc9yr1TMI/AAAAAAAAALo/ubyXt9FuMR0/s320/100_4810.JPG" /></a>
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<br />Today there was a good turnout of people. William and I did pretty well today and I'm looking forward to tomorrow. It felt like the day went by quickly, and I was happy about the hours not being too grueling (10-4), tomorrow it's from 11-4. I'm not looking forward to the daunting task of packing it all up again, it was so nice to leave everything set up each night though. Not every location had that luxury. Here are a few pictures of my set-up and the room. </p>Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-49949741358290803742010-12-03T22:50:00.005-06:002010-12-04T18:21:39.963-06:00Bottletree Craft Bazaar 2010I absolutely LOVED being a part of this event last year. This is the 5th year that they've put it on. It has grown as I had predicted, and I'm sure will continue to. Last year, the Craft Bazaar was 2 days (Saturday & Sunday). Even at the 4 year point, it had already outgrown the Bottletree and was in about 2 separate locations nearby. This year, there are even more locations and a shuttle is provided. I love the location I'm in this year. Yet another beautiful old building right in the middle of being renovated. Beautifully finished concrete floors, brick walls with that grenecian plaster. I made sure that I was there at noon today to pick a nice location, the one wall with some sort of paint over grenecian plaster (I think)...we were trying to figure it out...it's really unique and sort of a washed out teal/green. I've taken a few pics...I'm going to make a few changes and then take more pics tomorrow of the entire room. The owner said he would show William and I his upstairs loft tomorrow, which I can imagine is just amazing. William and I are sharing a booth this year and the event is 3 days instead of 2. I'm already exhausted since I still had to go to work today and all the running around to set up and then having to go back to work...I'm pretty beat! I'm so glad it doesn't start until 10 and all the setting up is behind me. I'm about to pour a glass of wine and wind some yarn for sale tomorrow...what a perfect excuse to destash.Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-23584886736391224272010-11-15T08:30:00.005-06:002010-11-15T09:01:37.513-06:00Gardendale Christmas Craft Show<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TOFKa0dTs6I/AAAAAAAAALA/eSCQtALwLlY/s1600/100_4491.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539790841261044642" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TOFKa0dTs6I/AAAAAAAAALA/eSCQtALwLlY/s320/100_4491.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TOFKaiV8luI/AAAAAAAAAK4/Rp2SKiubnvI/s1600/100_4479.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539790836398331618" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TOFKaiV8luI/AAAAAAAAAK4/Rp2SKiubnvI/s320/100_4479.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TOFKbF7vKPI/AAAAAAAAALI/xCibD3B5peY/s1600/100_4487.JPG"></a><br /><div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TOFKZ5vUJEI/AAAAAAAAAKw/qw6vpvttkmA/s1600/100_4493.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539790825498879042" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TOFKZ5vUJEI/AAAAAAAAAKw/qw6vpvttkmA/s320/100_4493.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>William and I did our first booth together at the Gardendale Christmas Arts Festival this past weekend. We set up on Saturday only and are already talking about ideas for our next event which will be in about 2 weeks.</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-30796663019424822712010-10-19T10:36:00.003-05:002010-10-22T13:48:07.950-05:00William made the front page!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TL281-Q2OfI/AAAAAAAAAKo/y6xUB2XtDYc/s1600/fp_14946.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 279px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529783552913586674" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TL281-Q2OfI/AAAAAAAAAKo/y6xUB2XtDYc/s320/fp_14946.jpg" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div>After only about 6 months in business, William had a set of buttons featured on Etsy's front page! He didn't realize it, but was wondering why that item received so many views on yesterday. I searched the vault on craftcult early this morning and was thrilled to see him featured. When I told him, he didn't completely believe me, but came running upstairs to look for himself. He was postively GIDDY, which was evident by the little dance he did. I'm really so proud of him, and the fact that he has taken the reins on the photos now as well, so it's truly all his doing. Hopefully one day, I'll get a spot on the front page (fingers crossed).</div>Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-54880444810710966052010-10-14T10:22:00.012-05:002011-11-17T21:16:16.108-06:00Darla Shrug<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TLcqgOFke2I/AAAAAAAAAKg/cbZEKAaLyQM/s1600/Jen+Shrug+back.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527933800646212450" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TLcqgOFke2I/AAAAAAAAAKg/cbZEKAaLyQM/s320/Jen+Shrug+back.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TLcqfvyojrI/AAAAAAAAAKY/Gewx5q3JLTg/s1600/Jen+Shrug.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 304px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527933792513724082" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TLcqfvyojrI/AAAAAAAAAKY/Gewx5q3JLTg/s320/Jen+Shrug.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://mssunflwr.blogspot.com/2011/11/free-pattern-offer.html"><strong>CLICK HERE TO SEE HOW TO GET ANY PATTERN IN MY SHOP FOR FREE!</strong></a><br />This is an old pattern that someone recently asked me to make. It's really more of a schematic and can easily be adjusted to fit any size. Enjoy!<br /><br />I took a tape measure and measured the widest part of my upper arm, this determined the length of my starting chain (granted I added a few stitches so it wouldn't be tight). You will be working the short rows, or working one sleeve, the bodice and then the other sleeve.<br /><br />Also, you will want to try this shrug on periodically near the end so that you will have the sleeves and body the <strong>length</strong> and fit you desire.<br /><br />For a slouchier fit, add more rows and leave the bodice (middle section) wider.<br /><br /><strong>MATERIALS:</strong><br />Approximately 200 grams of fingering or baby weight yarn (sport weight works well also)<br /><br />Size H or I crochet hook<br /><br />Safety pins<br /><br />Tapestry Needle (optional)<br /><br /><br /><strong>Row 1:</strong> trc in 5th chain from hook and in each stitch to end of row.<br /><br /><strong>Row 2:</strong> ch 5 (counts as 1st trc); trc in next stitch; *ch 1; skip next stitch; trc in next 2 stitches*; repeat from * to * to end of row, ending in 2 trc.<br /><br /><strong>Row 3: </strong>trc in each stitch across (including ch 1 spaces)<br /><br /><strong>Row 4 - end:</strong> Repeat row 2 and 3 to desired length.<br /><br />Fold over and TRY ON for perfect fit.<br />Use safety pins to pin shrug sleeves where desired.<br /><br />You can crochet the seams: Join by doing 4 sl st in side of each row, starting from bottom of shrug to body of shrug on both sides.<br /><br />Or simply use a tapestry needle and sew the seams using a whip stitch.<br /><br /><strong>This pattern brought to you courtesy of <a href="http://www.mssunflwr.etsy.com">Knots and Loops</a> and <a href="http://www.Oruaka.etsy.com">Oruaka</a>.</strong><em><br /><br />Copyright © 2005 Donna M. Rutledge, all rights reserved. No pattern or other material may be reproduced or distributed – mechanically, electronically, or by any other means, including photocopying and posting to websites – without written permission from Donna M. Rutledge. Pattern is for personal use only, you may, however, sell finished items made from this pattern <strong>as long as you reference the pattern source in your online listings</strong>. For email assistance with pattern and/or corrections, please contact Donna M. Rutledge at: MsSunflwr@yahoo.com.</em>Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-36815649557136609922010-10-03T16:38:00.003-05:002010-10-03T16:49:26.381-05:00Ulari Fingerless Driving Gloves<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TKj6XdiGCoI/AAAAAAAAAKA/Lh6zK-f6rg8/s1600/pumpkin5.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TKj6XdiGCoI/AAAAAAAAAKA/Lh6zK-f6rg8/s320/pumpkin5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523940223941479042" /></a><br /><br />I'm still feeling pretty inspired by the changing of the seasons. I'm starting to see the first signs of the leaves changing colors and the past week was the first of the season with temperatures that barely made it in the 80's. I've started shopping (a little) for a few new pieces...new boots, a few sweaters and skirts. The summer tops will be making their final 2010 round soon and I'm looking forward to wearing a few new hand crochet pieces this year. I'm seeing a lot of fingerless gloves making appearances this fall/winter in so many incarnations that I attempted yet another crochet interpretation. This design I'm calling Ulari, which means "Beautiful thing" in Igbo. There will be a matching hat to go with this design, just hoping the actual crochet interpretation is what I'm seeing in my mind's eye. The pattern for the gloves isn't completed yet, but should be soon, I'm eager to get it tested (along with the hat if all goes well).Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-21693703155964115022010-09-28T19:48:00.005-05:002010-09-28T20:31:04.246-05:00Cinematic Orchestra - The Man With The Movie Camera<object style="BACKGROUND-IMAGE: url(http://i3.ytimg.com/vi/vvTF6B5XKxQ/hqdefault.jpg)" width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/vvTF6B5XKxQ?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><br /><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/vvTF6B5XKxQ?fs=1&hl=en_US" width="425" height="344" allowscriptaccess="never" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></p><br /><p>This is one of the first songs that I ever heard by The Cinematic Orchestra years ago...I think it's still my favorite. But then again, I have so many favorites by this band, they're really one of the very best and one that I would LOVE to see live.</p><br /><p>I had a call from a very nice lady today who lives in New Jersey. Her daughter bought one of my crochet patterns, but doesn't crochet, so she was making it for her daughter and had a question. She explained when I first spoke to her last week that she was 89 years old, she didn't have a computer, so the only way I could help her was to talk to her. She was so sweet and gave me such compliments on my pattern and how her opinion of the style, stitch, etc. (Kelechi beanie). It was really fun to talk to her.</p><br /><p></p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TKKWp02gw_I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/mR86T6DCH9I/s1600/100_3438.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 208px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522141738415735794" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TKKWp02gw_I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/mR86T6DCH9I/s320/100_3438.JPG" /></a><br /><p><br /><p>I've been thinking about submission(s) for Vanna's Crochet Contest this year. I think for sure I'm going with a purse idea that's floating around in my head. Still trying to put it together in my head before attempting right now. And the fact I'm so behind on my mother's Christmas gift she requested last year. I'm getting a little worried. I'm only about 90 squares in, and I have ALOT more to go. At least I'm joining as I go and the ends are weaved in. There is going to have to be a CROCHETING MARATHON for a few days in order to get that one done by Christmas.</p><br /><p></p>Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-58912641078584076292010-09-23T20:11:00.003-05:002010-09-28T20:16:48.541-05:00Gerald's Game (again)<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TJv64n5ZVVI/AAAAAAAAAJw/_XEfKp_qIZk/s1600/geraldsgamephoto.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 202px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5520281618962011474" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TJv64n5ZVVI/AAAAAAAAAJw/_XEfKp_qIZk/s320/geraldsgamephoto.jpg" /></a><br />Just thought I'd throw in a random, non-crochet related blog post. I'm reading Gerald's Game again. This was the first Stephen King novel I ever read, about 15 years ago. I then found it on clearance at a Hollywood Video when they were getting rid of all of their audiobooks, so I couldn't leave it in there. That had to have been over ten years ago, and they're <em>actual</em> cassette tapes! I dusted them off and decided to go on this psychological rollercoaster ride one more time and I'm almost done. This still remains one of King's best (out of the few that I've read) in my opinion. It's just making me want to revisit my other favorites now.<br /><div></div>Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-51211414794418555022010-09-11T23:35:00.007-05:002010-09-14T22:39:17.252-05:00Akudo Fingerless Gloves<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TIxZyqaYqeI/AAAAAAAAAIo/xuFUMiQ5SGM/s1600/fingerless+money2.png"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 229px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515882370535303650" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TIxZyqaYqeI/AAAAAAAAAIo/xuFUMiQ5SGM/s320/fingerless+money2.png" /></a><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>I had an Etsy customer purchase the Akudo Toque last week in gray to match a pair of handknit gloves that she purchased from another seller on Etsy. I have yet to create a pair of fingerless gloves, and it got me to thinking what the Akudo fingerless gloves would look like if they existed. The stitch pattern used on the Akudo pieces is perfect for fingerless gloves, and it sort of has a hand knit look about it, not to mention how warm they would be. I experimented a little and came up with something I'm really happy with. I can't wait to start wearing mine.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I don't think I have ever posted a picture of the Akudo neckwarmer...here it is.</div><br /><div></div><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TIxagXQjtPI/AAAAAAAAAIw/Nc-jSFdDLtk/s1600/money2.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515883155667793138" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TIxagXQjtPI/AAAAAAAAAIw/Nc-jSFdDLtk/s320/money2.JPG" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-65358376051622172902010-09-05T22:25:00.004-05:002010-09-09T09:02:10.773-05:00Kaima Convertible Shrug<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TIjooW55fYI/AAAAAAAAAIg/1H2MJqXXLQE/s1600/kaima+convertible3.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 208px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514913523756006786" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TIjooW55fYI/AAAAAAAAAIg/1H2MJqXXLQE/s320/kaima+convertible3.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TIRgJxWf4lI/AAAAAAAAAIY/kUR93B_LQdc/s1600/kaima.png"></a><br /><div>I’m finishing up the writing portion of my most recent designs, the Kaima Convertible Shrug (thanks again Jane for allowing me to use your fabulous photos). Testing for this is coming to a close as well, should be getting the final comments in a day or so. I’ve worked this pattern three times, just finished the last a few hours ago. This was the first time that I had 3 patterns being tested simultaneously, so I’ve felt very busy in the last few weeks. Very inspired as well…anticipating the changing of the seasons. Fall being my favorite. There are a few other designs that have at least made it to my notebook, so perhaps there will be a few new additions to the collection.</div></div>Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-88599625020018343462010-08-14T12:06:00.005-05:002010-09-11T23:52:15.035-05:00Akudo Slouchy Toque Hat<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TIxcb14yo6I/AAAAAAAAAJA/L_S0XfSfDSg/s1600/il_430xN_170133313.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515885277013517218" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TIxcb14yo6I/AAAAAAAAAJA/L_S0XfSfDSg/s320/il_430xN_170133313.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br />I've been extremely busy lately...but always manage to get some crocheting in, especially this time of year. This is the Akudo Slouchy Toque Hat which is nearing the end of the testing process now. I'm thinking that a complimenting neckwarmer is needed to finish this off. I don't usually work on so many projects at once...there's another separate project that is nearly done being written up that I hope to start having tested by next weekend also, and yet another garment that's waiting also partially written that I need to revisit. The fall weather will be upon us in weeks, although it hasn't felt like this extreme heat will be relenting any time soon. This item will be a great one to give as gifts, especially for those who live in cold climates, this hat will be warm and snuggly. <div></div>Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-2860449602650567042010-07-11T20:15:00.006-05:002010-08-14T14:30:56.495-05:00Parcels<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TDqCfzEwqpI/AAAAAAAAAHo/hjD5585GY2A/s1600/103_5768.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 241px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492846178329471634" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TDqCfzEwqpI/AAAAAAAAAHo/hjD5585GY2A/s320/103_5768.JPG" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>How often do you get a (pleasant) surprise in the mail? I happen to be a HUGE fan of parcels, and admit that I like ordering things for myself online so that it feels like I'm getting a little present in the mail. I even try to order more than one thing at a time so that when they arrive, I'm not quite sure what it is that I'm opening. Anyways, I did happen to get an ACTUAL surprise on the 8th. I ordered some rayon boucle cone yarn online from a seller I've been using for years. I was looking for a specific yarn that I was sure I wouldn't be able to find again and had just used the last of my own. When it arrived in the mail, not only was it a perfect match, but she had put an extra cone of the yarn in the box as well! That made my day, almost as much as the second package that arrived that day. I was only expecting one package, and my husband was also expecting one. So to my surprise, he tells me they are BOTH for me. I open it and realize it's the hat I submitted to the Vanna White Knit & Crochet Contest. I'd already gone to the site and didn't see my name or my project anywhere as one of the big prize winners. So why had they contacted me to send in the hat, right? Well, they returned the hat along with a few goodies, I HAD actually been a finalist and won a prize which included a Michael's gift card. When I entered the contest it was almost too late and I thought maybe it was a design contest rather than the use of Vanna's yarn. Anyone could have submitted the hat using my pattern. But it was one of my best sellers so I submitted it anyway. I'm not a total loser after all I guess. I'm planning on entering the contest next time, hopefully I'll be more prepared and have a really creative entry.</div>Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-80008901894431610682010-07-06T13:38:00.006-05:002010-07-06T14:14:32.211-05:00Emume Bolero - Cropped Version<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TDOAJ4jnbvI/AAAAAAAAAHg/Ge7oAkKea9o/s1600/102_5648.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 241px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490873277983715058" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TDOAJ4jnbvI/AAAAAAAAAHg/Ge7oAkKea9o/s320/102_5648.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Finally done with the Emume (ee-moo-may...meaning "Celebration or festivity" in Igbo) bolero pattern. The photo is of the cropped length which is included in the pattern along with lots of pictures. This is the first time I tried testing on Ravelry through the free pattern testers group I recently joined: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/free-pattern-testers">http://www.ravelry.com/groups/free-pattern-testers</a>. I love how organized this group was and immediately joined. I received such good feedback from my 5 testers and each of them has linked their Ravelry project page to the pattern which is available now on Ravelry and through my Etsy shop. My mother's birthday is on Friday and I think I'm giving her one with one of William's handmade buttons on it. I'll definitely be using this group again to test my next shrug pattern, which is completed, although the pattern is not written out yet. I'm taking a few days off work to relax so I'm hoping to have it written out soon and get the testing process under way.</div>Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-5812271231014299242010-06-29T15:48:00.003-05:002010-06-29T17:40:13.029-05:00Beautiful Waist of Time<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/OruAka?section_id=7140973"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488300640380883282" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TCpcWqpzkVI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/gsYGBo0mbxE/s320/il_430xN_154237333.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br />So I get home from work last night to a starving husband, eager for me to prepare his “Sunday dinner” (which to his disappointment didn’t happen on Sunday because we ate leftovers from Saturday night’s dinner). Anyways, so I made a beeline home to get started on it, already knowing that dinner would be late that night because of all the prep that needed to be done. He was so excited about dinner that he told me he hadn’t eaten ALL DAY and that he “dreamed” about it, so I couldn’t let him down again, right? So we’re in the garage and I just happened to ask about the latest PILE of wood I see. His eyes light up and he enthusiastically starts telling me about the wood, telling me about the tree it came from, pointing out little nuances in the wood grain and showing me his works in progress using the wood. He then starts showing me other wood in yet ANOTHER PILE that I hadn’t even noticed...uh, there's A LOT of wood in the garage, where did it all come from? I’m amazed at how much he knows about each type wood and listen intently as he struts around pointing this out and that out, showing me what he’s working on and telling what his plans are for other pieces of wood, his workshop, etc. Before I knew it, an hour had passed and I had to get cracking on dinner before it was midnight…but how could I interrupt him...he couldn't be more enthralled, and I mean, he was showing me his wood and we were sharing a moment. Until I mentioned dinner and he stopped on a dime as if I was sitting around wasting time.<br /><br />Before too long though, he was upstairs, keeping me company in the kitchen putting some cufflinks together at the table and playing the latest cd from The Roots (AWESOME CD!) for me and I was leaning up against the countertop crocheting away while the food was in the oven. We both eventually had to remark on how we were both “working” at that moment and how nice it was to both be at home, listening to great music, relaxing while we "worked" creatively...amazing.Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950039709827866784.post-2155425489770865832010-06-26T01:17:00.008-05:002010-06-28T15:35:06.192-05:00Emume Bolero<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TCWcf7A1KXI/AAAAAAAAAHA/2k_OlwaGEKQ/s1600/emume2.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 241px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486963793251871090" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_cHCp-VcBGRQ/TCWcf7A1KXI/AAAAAAAAAHA/2k_OlwaGEKQ/s320/emume2.JPG" /></a><br />Just finished my second Emume (ee-moo-may) bolero, with one of William's buttons <a href="http://www.oruaka.etsy.com/">http://www.oruaka.etsy.com/</a>. Emume means Celebration or festivity in Igbo. Still working on the pattern which is still being tested. I really want to keep this one for myself, the pictures don't show the rich color or beautiful drape. I was sad to wind the last of it off the cone. I'm doubtful that I'll find more of it. There's enough to maybe make a nice scarf for myself to remember it by.Donnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17527685072192248984noreply@blogger.com1