Every so often I have a blog post that I must confess, is kind of for me. "Today at Wind Rose..." is my mental book keeping. I post it for all to see because I can come back and reference it, and just in case anyone out there is curious about what us crazy Etsy storekeepers are up to. I know I sometimes wonder how many hours others put into their store and how they focus their time.
First, I have to say that I think fall has come to the Valley of the Sun. My studio, the door to which I keep religiously closed to keep kitties out, is now chilly. Rather than a burst of warm air escaping when I open the door, I am now greeted by a chill. I have even had to go out in search of footies to keep my feet warm while spinning. Very strange. What I am discovering about life in Arizona is that the seasons seem to go on forever and then, all at once, they change. One morning you wake up and it's 60˚ instead of 85˚. Then you know, summer is over.
So what is on my to do list:
Finish Kathleen's yarn and post by Thursday. Happy almost Birthday Kathleen!
Call Louet on the phone and ask them where on earth my merino is!!!!
If I ever get my merino, dye! dye! dye! I am frighteningly low on all skin tones!
See if white boucle yarn is back in stock at Michaels and convo customer about Baby's First Christmas Hat.
Spin companion skeins of Moonlit Dance and Pink Clouds.
Tomorrow night: Do crazy dance under the full moon! :D
Monday, October 13, 2008
Handwoven Earrings - Shopping Local Artists in Asheville, NC
I have one last piece to share from my shopping excursion in downtown Asheville. This is going to be a short post I'm afraid. It's another case of lovely work and no business card on display. What I can tell you is that these lovely woven earrings were made by a company called Moondance. Two other interesting bits; the hooks are made of argentium which is a new kind of sterling silver that is more tarnish resistant. Wiping it with a soft cloth is all it takes to keep the metal sparkling. The other piece of information is that the artist uses polyurethane to protect the fabric from wear and stains as well as add life to the piece.
Well that's all the technical information I have. I wish I had more personal details about the artist. I did try a google search and couldn't find anything. So this is our mystery woman artist of the day. I am drawn to anything handwoven which is why these earrings caught my eye. There are so neatly made. I personally do not really enjoy working on really small pieces, so I marvel at intricate work like this and the careful hands that made them. She has lined the edges in microglitter which for me is a bonus. I love a little sparkle. I also like the beads she chose to hang on the end. It gives the earrings just enough weight and adds some movement and interest.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Beautifully Dyed Merino Roving from Handcrafts - Shopping Local Artists in Asheville, NC
Over the last few days I've been sharing some of my finds while shopping local artists in downtown Asheville, NC. When I found myself with a couple hours, I knew exactly where I wanted to go first, a store called Homecrafts. I found it on a brochure in my hotel. I was walking through the lobby after breakfast and passing by one of those huge hotel brochure racks. I stopped to grab a local map and there it was, a brochure entitled "Fabric Fiber Bead Trail" It's like they knew I was coming! In one handy pamphlet, all of the places I search for in a new city. Thank you!
The description read, "A very special shop! Choose from the handiwork of over 70 local artisans, or buy supplies to create fiber arts yourself. Handmade quilts, handwoven baskets, handknitted hats and scarves, handspun and unique yarns, knitting supplies and much more!" Now to you understand why it was my first pick?
Homecrafts is located downtown in a place called the Grove Arcade. The first level is filled with shops showcasing the work of local artists. I also remember there being a wine bar and a couple other little places to eat or get treats. Above the ground level there are offices and then above that, luxury apartments. I took a moment to fantasize about living one such apartment. Then I snapped out of it and found 1 Page Avenue, the home of Homecrafts.
I don't even now how to begin to describe Homecrafts. The proprietors, Marie Hendrix and Judy Bryson Quinn have created an atmosphere overflowing with unique treasures so much so that you start to feel a little overwhelmed. Where should your eyes rest first? I remember an entire wall of felt hats. No two looked alike. According to a handout from the store, many of the hats and scarves are made with the fibers Marie spins from her family's flock. Judy designs and weaves the beautiful baskets sold at Homecrafts. All around were one-of-a-kind, handmade quilts by local quilters. All in all, you can find the work of 70 local artists. Amazing!
To get my balance, I headed for my comfort zone, the fiber. Along the back wall hung skeins of all natural handspun yarn. Just imagine having a store like this to sell your yarn. I wanted to bring the whole place back to Arizona, brick, mortar and all! There was also a lovely section of dyed fiber. Even though I have a studio stuffed full of roving, this is where I picked out my souvenir. I bought 3.8 ounces of merino blend roving made by Lisa Mackey of Mackey's Acres. I had to have something to remember this wonderful store. So when I spin my merino, I'll think of my afternoon at the Grove Arcade in downtown Asheville and especially Homecrafts.
The description read, "A very special shop! Choose from the handiwork of over 70 local artisans, or buy supplies to create fiber arts yourself. Handmade quilts, handwoven baskets, handknitted hats and scarves, handspun and unique yarns, knitting supplies and much more!" Now to you understand why it was my first pick?
Homecrafts is located downtown in a place called the Grove Arcade. The first level is filled with shops showcasing the work of local artists. I also remember there being a wine bar and a couple other little places to eat or get treats. Above the ground level there are offices and then above that, luxury apartments. I took a moment to fantasize about living one such apartment. Then I snapped out of it and found 1 Page Avenue, the home of Homecrafts.
I don't even now how to begin to describe Homecrafts. The proprietors, Marie Hendrix and Judy Bryson Quinn have created an atmosphere overflowing with unique treasures so much so that you start to feel a little overwhelmed. Where should your eyes rest first? I remember an entire wall of felt hats. No two looked alike. According to a handout from the store, many of the hats and scarves are made with the fibers Marie spins from her family's flock. Judy designs and weaves the beautiful baskets sold at Homecrafts. All around were one-of-a-kind, handmade quilts by local quilters. All in all, you can find the work of 70 local artists. Amazing!
To get my balance, I headed for my comfort zone, the fiber. Along the back wall hung skeins of all natural handspun yarn. Just imagine having a store like this to sell your yarn. I wanted to bring the whole place back to Arizona, brick, mortar and all! There was also a lovely section of dyed fiber. Even though I have a studio stuffed full of roving, this is where I picked out my souvenir. I bought 3.8 ounces of merino blend roving made by Lisa Mackey of Mackey's Acres. I had to have something to remember this wonderful store. So when I spin my merino, I'll think of my afternoon at the Grove Arcade in downtown Asheville and especially Homecrafts.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Spiral Baby Beanie - Free Pattern Follow up
I finally did it! At last The Baby Beanie pattern I've been talking about is posted here for you. It's one of those patterns that is really pretty easy to make, but kind of complicated to write down. It makes me crazy when I find errors in a pattern, so I get obsessed when I'm the writer. I made 5 of these hats while I was writing out the pattern. I also try to find a balance between being descriptive enough for everyone without being too verbose. So I hope I've succeeded, but if you ever find an error or confusing language in one of my patterns, please let me know.
You can see the look of this hat really changes with the colors you choose. There are so many possible color combinations. I like being able to see the spiral at the crown, but I have also made one with a pom pom on top and that was cute. Adding playful leaves and flowers would be so adorable on a little baby girl. When you think of it, the spiral is kind of like a long vine waiting for things to bloom on it. I think you can get really playful with this project. After you work through the pattern once, it will be easier to duplicate. You'll find yourself counting less and less. Before you know it, you'll have a stash of these in your gift closet, or if you're the mommy, your baby will have a super fun beanie collection!
I love pictures, so I wanted to post a few more. On the pattern I used a Candy Cane Spiral Beanie because the spiral pattern really pops with the contrasting colors. In general, the spiral will stand out more if you use two solid yarns, but I also like the look created when one yarn is solid and the other variegated. The Autumn Spiral Beanie shows this off. You can still see the pattern, but it's more subtle. And one more for old time's sake. I got the idea for this hat while making The Baby Cozy in our crochet-along. I had a lot of fun with that project. I'm still waiting on family baby news. Any day now...
You can see the look of this hat really changes with the colors you choose. There are so many possible color combinations. I like being able to see the spiral at the crown, but I have also made one with a pom pom on top and that was cute. Adding playful leaves and flowers would be so adorable on a little baby girl. When you think of it, the spiral is kind of like a long vine waiting for things to bloom on it. I think you can get really playful with this project. After you work through the pattern once, it will be easier to duplicate. You'll find yourself counting less and less. Before you know it, you'll have a stash of these in your gift closet, or if you're the mommy, your baby will have a super fun beanie collection!
Friday, October 10, 2008
Crocheted Metal Necklace - Shopping Local Artists in Asheville, NC
Yesterday I showed you one treasure from my recent trip to Asheville, NC. Today I want to show you the second item I bought at Woolworth Walk. Don't worry. I actually have the artist information for this one complete with website. All I can say is, if you display your work in a cooperative type place, it's a really good idea to not only to tag individual items, but also have lots of business cards out on the table.
This artist did just that which is why I can tell you that this amazing necklace was made by Sharon Bass of Watergirl Designs. The chain of the necklace is crocheted steel. It features the natural stones carnelian, new jade and lava rock. I've been seeing more metal wire work lately, but this one really caught my eye. For a piece made from steel wire and rock, it's so delicate looking. It's also very well constructed. I've worn it twice now and there are no little pieces of wire sticking into my skin. It's very comfortable and light weight on. I also love that it doesn't tend to travel. You know what I mean. You put a necklace on and catch your reflection an hour later and it looks all crooked. This one stays very centered so in spite of the seemingly random placement of the rocks, it's very balanced.
I feel very lucky to have this beautiful necklace in my personal collection. I recommend a visit to the Watergirl Designs website. I think you will enjoy browsing her gallery of striking work.
Four Brand New Colors of Roving at Wind Rose!
Hi. I was dyeing yesterday and playing around with color. These four new shades are the result. From top to bottom and left to right, their names are Deep Royal Blue, Gypsy Wine, Earthen Rose and Pewter Blue. I always have a good time when I develop recipes. My favorite from this batch has to be the Gypsy Wine. I've always loved wine colors. Right now you can find these new shades of Merino at Wind Rose Fiber Studio for your spinning and felting pleasure!
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Long Cuff Bracelet - Shopping Local Artists in Asheville, NC
While in North Carolina, I was lucky enough to get a couple hours to myself in downtown Asheville. I headed straight for the places where I knew I could find the work of local artists. One of these places was Woolworth on Haywood Street. It's actually a F.W. Woolworth Co. store that was established in 1938 and then renovated in 2001. Now it's home to the work of over 170 local artists. Man do I wish we had a place like this where I live! It's a huge space with vintage floors and fixtures and they've even recreated the old fashioned soda fountain where tourists can have a refreshing treat. So fun.
So let me show you one of my finds. I have to start by saying, and this really kills me, that I don't have the artist information. The artist didn't have any business cards on their table, but there was a tag on the piece I bought. What I didn't catch was the person at the cash register kept the tag. I'm sure it's part of their record keeping, but if I had seen her cut it, I would have at least asked her to write down the artist's name. So if you are reading this and you happen to recognize the artist, please let me know so I can give credit where credit is due.
Here is the piece that caught my eye. It's an extra long cuff bracelet pieced together from different fabric. Parts of it look woven and other parts sewn. The thread that holds it together is part of the design creating patterns through the bracelet and adding color and texture. I love how long it is. I think that is what makes it stand out. I also love that you can wear it more than one way. You can have it come down over your hand almost like a fingerless mitt or turn it around and have the length going up your arm. I've also played around with folding up the cuff. So many possibilities. It's close fitting so you could even layer a watch or bracelets on top. I love it!
So let me show you one of my finds. I have to start by saying, and this really kills me, that I don't have the artist information. The artist didn't have any business cards on their table, but there was a tag on the piece I bought. What I didn't catch was the person at the cash register kept the tag. I'm sure it's part of their record keeping, but if I had seen her cut it, I would have at least asked her to write down the artist's name. So if you are reading this and you happen to recognize the artist, please let me know so I can give credit where credit is due.
Here is the piece that caught my eye. It's an extra long cuff bracelet pieced together from different fabric. Parts of it look woven and other parts sewn. The thread that holds it together is part of the design creating patterns through the bracelet and adding color and texture. I love how long it is. I think that is what makes it stand out. I also love that you can wear it more than one way. You can have it come down over your hand almost like a fingerless mitt or turn it around and have the length going up your arm. I've also played around with folding up the cuff. So many possibilities. It's close fitting so you could even layer a watch or bracelets on top. I love it!
The Spiral Baby Beanie - Free Crochet Pattern for Infants 0-3 Months Old
Materials:
Crochet Hook Size H
Yarn - two colors of worsted weight yarn
Scissors and large eye needle
Note 1: yarn (A) will be the color with which you begin your beanie and yarn (B) will be the color that becomes the trim.
Note 2: This pattern is worked in the round
Stitches: You will be using the following stitches - chain stitch (ch), slip stitch (sl st), single crochet (sc) and changing colors. The DMC Stitch Guide is a useful reference. (∆) will symbolize changing colors throughout. I will use this symbol when you come to the last stitch of a color. You will start the stitch in the same color, but on the last yarn over, you will replace your yarn with the other color and pull up your loop. *Repeat instructions between asterisks* the number of times indicated.
Beginning at the Crown:
Begin with color (A). You want the center on the crown not to have a hole in the middle. Instead of chaining, begin by wrapping the tail end of your yarn, clockwise, from back to front around the index and middle fingers of the hand you do not hold your hook with. There should be 2 loops of yarn around your fingers. Insert your hook under the front loop and hook the back loop. Draw it under the front loop. Yarn over and pull through the loop on your hook. Pull the tail of your yarn to tighten the circle, but not all the way.
Row 1: (A) work 4 sc in the circle, sc in the circle (∆ B), sc in the circle (equals 6 sts) Pull the tail end of the yarn to close the beginning circle the rest of the way.
Row 2: 2 sc in next 3 sts, sc in next st, sc in same st (∆ A), 2 sc in next 2 sts. (equals 12 sts)
Row 3: *1 sc in next st, 2 sc in next st* 3 times, sc in next st (∆ B), 2 sc in next st, *1 sc in next st, 2 sc in next st* 2 times (equals 18 sts)
Row 4: *sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st* 2 times, sc in next 2 sts, sc in next st (∆ A), sc in same st, *sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st* 3 times. (equals 24 sts)
Row 5: *sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st* 2 times, sc in next st, sc in next st (∆ B), sc in next st, 2 sc in next st, *sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st* 3 times (equals 30 sts)
Row 6: *sc in next 4 sts, 2 sc in next st* 2 times, sc in next st (∆ A), sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st, *sc in next 4 sts, 2 sc in next st* times. (equals 36 sts)
Row 7: *sc in next 5 sts, 2 sc in next st* 1 time, sc in next 5 sts, sc in next st (∆ B), sc in same st, *sc in next 5 sts, 2 sc in next st* 4 times. (equals 42 sts)
Row 8: *sc in next 6 sts, 2 sc in next st* 1 time, sc in next 4 sts, sc in next st (∆ A), sc in next st, 2 sc in next st, *sc in next 6 sts, 2 sc in next st* 4 times. (equals 48 sts)
Row 9: *sc in next 7 sts, 2 sc in next st* 1 time, sc in next 3 sts, sc in next st (∆ B), sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st, *sc in next 7 sts, 2 sc in next st* 4 times. (equals 54 sts)
Row 10: sc in next 11 sts, sc in next st (∆ A), sc in next 42 sts. (equals 54 sts)
Row 11: *sc in next 8 sts, 2 sc in next st* 1 time, sc in next st, sc in next st (∆ B), sc in next 6 sts, 2 sc in next st, *sc in next 8 sts, 2 sc in next st* 4 times. (equals 60 sts)
Rows 12-21 (or to desired length minus 1 inch): sc in each st around. ∆ colors in second to last st of each opposing color row. For instance, in row 12 you begin crocheting in color (B). The sts you are working into are color (A). When there are only two color (A) sts left, sc in next st (∆ A) and then continue working around in (A). Follow the pattern in this way until you count 21 rows or reach your desired length minus 1 inch for the brim. (each row equals 60 sts throughout)
When you reach Row 21, you will be working in color (A), sc around as you have been. On the second to last st (∆ B), you can now cut color (A) leaving enough length to weave in the end.
Brim
Continuing in (B)
Rows 1-4: sc in each st around. (equals 60 sts)
Row 5: sc in next 59 sts, sl st in next st, ch 1 turn. (equals 60 sts)
Row 6: Skip first st (the sl st from previous row), sc in next 59 sts, sc in ch 1 space. (equals 60 sts)
Rows 7-10: sc in each st around. (equals 60 sts)
Finishing
Sl st into next st, finish off. Fold up last 5 rows to form brim. Discreetly weave in all loose ends.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
The Niddy Noddy Drop Spindle
When I was shopping for my Turkish Drop Spindle, I found myself at The Woolery. It's not the first time. I've made quite a few purchases from their on line store. But while I was looking around, I stumbled onto something I had never seen before. It's a 6.5" long, 1 ounce, collapsible Niddy Noddy Spindle. Made in Canada and manufactured from hardwood, it looks like a strange little toy. At the low price of $8.50, I had to add one to my order. I must say when I went back looking for this spindle to give you the link, I had a terrible time finding it, so in case this ever happens to you, it can be found at The Woolery under spinning accessories and then click niddy noddies and scroll down about 1/3 of the page. It's easy to miss.
Now I have no idea how a hard core drop spindle spinner would feel about this niddy noddy spindle, but I kind of liked the idea especially for something to do while on travel. I don't think I'll be making all my yarn this way, but I love little toys I can take on the road with me. With this in mind, I packed my new Niddy Noddy Drop Spindle in my carry on with a wool batt from my stash. Yes, I took the whole wool batt! My biggest fear in life is having nothing to do. LOL!
This is the trip I've been talking about. I just spent 5 days in Asheville, NC visiting my brother and sister in law who are about to have a baby. When I say about, he or she is due tomorrow! So I got this idea. I decided to see if I could make a project from start to finish using my niddy noddy drop spindle in five days. My own Fiber Challenge! So I spun in the airport in Phoenix waiting for my plane to board, I spun on the plane, I spun on the two hour car ride to Asheville, I spun before we went to bed. Every chance I got, I added yards to my tiny little niddy noddy. (This picture is a little blurry because I took it with my phone) On the night before our second to last day in Asheville, I declared my spinning done and just hoped I had enough yardage. (With my time limit, I planned to make another Spiral Baby Beanie and use the handspun as the second color in the spiral pattern.) The sink at our hotel was nice and deep. Keeping the yarn on the niddy noddy, I gave it a warm soapy bath. I used a hand towel to squeeze out as much moisture as possible and balanced it on the air conditioner hoping that the blowing air would speed the drying.
In the morning, my yarn was still a little damp so I took it hiking with me. Well actually, it sat on the dash of our rental car in the sun while I hiked on this mountain top. Pretty, huh? By the time we got back from our hike, the yarn was completely dry. As we drove down the mountain, I carefully pulled it off the niddy noddy to find the twist perfectly set. I had a nice sport weight single. How about that? I wrapped the yarn into a ball while fending off motion sickness coming down the very curvy road. I have a tough time with curvy roads.
After lunch at the Bier Garden (my husband is a home brewer so we spend lots of time at microbreweries) and a couple hours hanging out in downtown Asheville, I started my beanie. The next day we went to a park and so did the growing baby hat. Using all my down time, by dinner my baby beanie was done! One more present for my neice or nephew! I completed my Fiber Challenge! Wait, I had to add a pom pom. OK, now I'm done!
So the Niddy Noddy Spindle gets my full endorsement. It's so cute and very easy to work with. I love that I can wash and warp my fiber right on the spindle if want or need to. It's a wonderful little spinner. It's so fun to think that my little niece or nephew will wear the hat I made for them while visiting their Mommy and Daddy!
*Note - Sadly, the Woolery no longer carries this item, but you can find 24" niddy noddies, so perhaps you could make one of your own!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
The Baby Cozy - The Complete Free Pattern from Wind Rose Fiber Studio
Materials:
Scissors
Hook: Size H or 5.5mm
Large Eye Needle: for weaving in tail ends
4 skeins of Patons Classic Wool: I like using this because it's soft and I like to steer away from synthetics for baby. You will need two skeins for the body, and one for each flap. The flaps actually take a little less than a skein, but if you are working with three colors, you will want to pick two skeins of one color for the body and one skein of a different color for each flap. See the pictures above.
Body
We'll start with the body. It's the middle part that for which you'll need two skeins.
Chain 38
Row 1: Half Double Crochet in 3rd stitch from hook and all the way across. Equals 36 sts
Rows 2-86: Chain 2 turn, half double crochet across
Row 87: Ch 2 (counts as first hdc of the row) turn, 2 hdc in first st (first corner made), 34 hdc across, 3 hdc in last st (second corner made), do not turn, continue down the side of your rectangle, work 1 hdc in the end of each row to equal 86 hdc, 3 hdc in 1st st of beg ch on bottom edge (third corner made), 34 hdc across, 3 hdc in next st (fourth corner made), now continue working down the other long side of your rectangle once again by working 1 hdc for each row to equal 86 sts, join with sl st to top of beg ch 2.
Row 88: Ch 2 (counts as first hdc of the row) turn, hdc in next 87 sts (be careful not to crochet into the small space that almost looks like a st at the base of your ch 2), 3 hdc in next st (corner), hdc in next 36 sts, 3 hdc in next st (corner), hdc in next 88 sts, 3 hdc in next st (corner), hdc in next 36 sts, 3 hdc in next st (corner), join with sl st to top of beg ch 2.
With the right side of the cozy facing you, fold up the bottom edge to form the pocket. You should have 37 hdc rows for the pocket leaving 17 rows unfolded for the head. Now it's time to place two markers where we will join the front and back of the pocket. Find your upper right and left corner stitches. Place a temporary marker in them if you like. There should be 40 stitches between the two corner stitches. From the upper right hand corner stitch, count down 19 stitches counting the corner as 1. Slip a marker through that 19th stitch and do the same for the other side. You will also need to slip the marker through the two top corners of the pocket. After you place your markers, be sure that there are 40 stitches between them on the top edge of the pocket.
Row 89: Ch 2 (counts as first hdc of the row) turn, (The side facing you now is the right side of your cozy) hdc in next st (again, be careful not to crochet into the small space that almost looks like a st at the base of your ch 2), 3 hdc in next st (corner), hdc in next 38 sts, 3 hdc in next st (corner), hdc in next 90 sts, 3 hdc in next st (corner), hdc in next 38 sts, 3 hdc in next st (corner), hdc in next 88 sts, join with sl st to top of beg ch 2.
Row 90: Ch 1, do not turn, sc in the next 2 sts, 3 sc in the next st (upper right hand corner made), sc in next 40 sts, 3 sc in next st (upper left hand corner made), sc in next 17 sts (you have reached your first marker and will now be working through two layers, the front and back of your pocket), sc in next 37 sts, 3 sc in the corner (lower left corner made), work 40 sc evenly across the bottom edge(see pictures below for a close up look at a corner and the bottom edge), work 3 sc in next corner (lower right hand corner made), (To be sure to place your next stitch correctly, I recommend counting down from your marker 37 sts) sc in next 37 stitches to the marker, sc in next 15 sts, join with a sl st to beg ch 1.
The body or center section of your cozy is now complete! You can remove the stitch markers and weave in your ends. If you look at the upper right hand corner where you just finished, it tends to have two small gaps from your previous turn rows. I like to close these up a little while I'm weaving in the tail end.
Right Side Flap
This is the flap that will fold over first and then we'll make the left side that will go on top. Remember to switch to the color yarn you chose for this piece.
Row 1: With the wrong side of the body facing you, join new color yarn in the upper right hand corner. Sc in same st and in next 57 sts. Equals 58 sts.
Rows 2-3: Ch 2 turn, hdc across
Row 4: Ch 2 turn, hdc in next 56 sts, hdc dec over last two sts, equals 57 sts
Row 5: Ch 2 turn, work hdc dec over first two sts, hdc across remainder of row, equals 56 sts
Rows 6-21: repeat rows 4 and 5 consecutively. At the end of row 21 you should have 40 sts.
Row 22: Ch 2 turn, hdc across, equals 40 sts
Row 23: Ch 2 turn, hdc dec over first two sts, hdc across, equals 39 sts
Rows 24-35: repeat rows 22 and 23 consecutively, and the end of row 35 you should have 32 sts.
Finishing
Ch 2, do not turn, hdc across the bottom edge of your flap by working 1 hdc in the end of each row for a total of 34 sts, sc in the end of the next row, join with a sl st to the corner of the body (the very next st after the 58th st of the first row of this flap)
Ch 1 turn, sl st in sc from previous row, sc in next 34 sts, 3 sc in ch 2 space from previous row to form a corner, sc in next 32 sts, 3 sc in next st to form the second corner, work 1 sc in the end of each row going up the flap towards where you began for a total of 34 sc, sl st in the end of the last row, sl st in the same space as the joining st of row 1. Finish off weaving in loose ends.
Left Side Flap
You make this left flap with your third color choice.
Row 1: With the wrong side of the cozy facing you, join with a sl st in the lower left hand corner of the cozy. (When I say lower left hand, I mean the lower left corner of the piece when you are looking at it from the front.) sc in same st and in next 57 sts. Equals 58 sts
Rows 2 and 3: Ch 2 turn, hdc across, equals 58 sts
Row 4: Ch 2 turn, hdc dec over first two sts, hdc across, equals 57 sts
Row 5: Ch 2 turn, hdc dec over first two sts, hdc across to last two sts, hdc dec over last two sts, equals 55 sts
Rows 6-38: repeat rows 4 and 5 consecutively, row 38 will have 7 sts
Finishing
Ch 1, do not turn, crocheting along bottom edge, work 1 sc into the end of each row for a total of 37 sc, sl st in the end of the last row, sl st in the same space as the joining space of row 1.
Ch 1 turn, skip first sl st space and sl st into the next st, sc in the next 35 sts, 3 sc in next st (corner made) sc in next 5 sts, 3 sc in next st (corner made), crocheting along the top edge, work 1 sc in each row for the next 37 rows, sl st in last row, join with sl st in same space as the last st of row 1. Finish off weaving in all loose ends.
Making The Tie
The only thing left is to make a cute little tie for the side. You can really do this a number of ways. I think it would be pretty to find a nice silk ribbon and sew it on. On my prototype cozy, I joined the body colored yarn to the end of the top flap, chained to the length I wanted and then worked sl sts back down the chain and joined it with a sl st to the same space I started in. Then I carefully knotted the yarn on the underside of the flap. I attached the same kind of chain to the side of the body where the tie would naturally meet.
I like this look, but when I made my next cozy, I decided I wanted to make the tie more understated. With this in mind, I have started making plied yarn ties. I use my spinning wheel, but you can create a plied effect with your hands. Cut about a 30" piece of yarn. Pinch one end between your fingers to hold it in place while you twist the yarn counter clockwise. The Patons yarn we are using for this project has a clockwise twist so at first you will see it untwist and then it will start to ply in the opposite direction. Keep twisting it until, when you release the tension, it wants to back spin or twist up on itself. At that point, holding your piece of yarn carefully so it doesn't unwind, thread it through the end of the left flap. I like to go up from the underside, skip about three sts and then go back down. Still holding the ends of the thread, make sure the flap is in the center and then bring the ends together. Holding the ends together, get the ply started by turning them counter clockwise. You will see that the tension in the twist will make the yarn want to ply together. Then I just tie a neat little knot in the end and trim the tips to make them even. You would repeat this to make the other tie attached to the body. Once you try it, you see how easy it is.
Reference Pictures:
Monday, October 6, 2008
Good Morning
It's another beautiful morning here in Asheville, NC. It's time for me to pack up and fly home to the Valley of the Sun. It's been a wonderful vacation! I love this town and the gorgeous mountains that surround it. I have so much I want to write about when I get home and back to a standard keyboard. My fingers are getting a little more accustomed to this little computer, but I'm still hitting the backspace all the time to make corrections.
I feel I owe you so many blog entries. I still want to condense my Baby Cozy pattern into one post so you can print it off more easily. I need to share the Baby Beanie pattern. I want to share pictures of my niddy noddy drop spindle and show you the project I made from wool batt to finished baby beanie on this five day vacation. I also had nice time shopping here and have picked up a couple new pieces of jewelry made by local artists. I have that information for you too.
So just let me get home and catch my breath and I'll get busy on all of that. I have 7 orders waiting for me to ship tomorrow and then I need to dye roving like crazy. I think the spinners and felters have started their Christmas shopping. If you meet this description and have colors you would like to see me dye at Wind Rose, either contact me through the shop or leave a comment here. I'm always happy to take color requests. I'll be dyeing mostly merino, but I also have some soy silk and alpaca in stock.
I hope your fall is off to a happy start. It's been so nice to see the leaves beginning to change here. It's just like the falls I grew up with. Now I'm back to the land of palm trees and swimming pools. See you soon!
I feel I owe you so many blog entries. I still want to condense my Baby Cozy pattern into one post so you can print it off more easily. I need to share the Baby Beanie pattern. I want to share pictures of my niddy noddy drop spindle and show you the project I made from wool batt to finished baby beanie on this five day vacation. I also had nice time shopping here and have picked up a couple new pieces of jewelry made by local artists. I have that information for you too.
So just let me get home and catch my breath and I'll get busy on all of that. I have 7 orders waiting for me to ship tomorrow and then I need to dye roving like crazy. I think the spinners and felters have started their Christmas shopping. If you meet this description and have colors you would like to see me dye at Wind Rose, either contact me through the shop or leave a comment here. I'm always happy to take color requests. I'll be dyeing mostly merino, but I also have some soy silk and alpaca in stock.
I hope your fall is off to a happy start. It's been so nice to see the leaves beginning to change here. It's just like the falls I grew up with. Now I'm back to the land of palm trees and swimming pools. See you soon!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Blogging From Asheville, NC
Greetings from Asheville! Yesterday was the first day in a long time that I didn't blog. There were just too many little things to do before traveling. Even though I have never lived in NC, I'm surrounded by the familiar, the dense vegetation, the curving roads, and the faster east coast pace. I'm looking forward to tomorrow when I'll get some time to venture out and see the town.
On the plane I made another spiral baby beanie and I'm about ready to write out the directions. I also had a lot of fun playing with my new travel toy. It's a drop spindle shaped like a niddy noddy. I paid a wopping $8.50.......
..........I gave up on this post last night, but I'm back now. You see, I'm typing this on my husband's new acer. It's a tiny little laptop and very cool for travel. Seriously, it's like 7"X10" and weighs about 2 pounds. The problem is that the keyboard is smaller and my fingers keep pushing the wrong buttons. The muscle memory is just too powerful. I actually hit a wrong key last night and it began writing in Japanese!
Today I gave my sister and brother-in-law the Baby Cozy I made for them. You know, the one from our crochet-along? Well they seemed really pleased. I also gave them the matching hat, and the spiral beanie I made on the plane and one of my Baby's First Christmas hats. I held my breath as they pulled off the tissue. As much as I love giving handmade, I always have this moment of "What if they don't like it?" I was starting to second guess my color choices and other little things. So I'm relieved and happy to report that they liked their gifts. I told them about our crochet along and how it felt even more special to be sharing the process with people. I hope your cozies will be happily received as well!
So I was talking about my travel drop spindle before. I was looking on line to try to find a link for you and I can't find where I bought it. I thought it was Halycon Yarn, but it wasn't there. I'll have to look for my packing slip when I get home. Anyway, it really is cool. Just imagine a tiny niddy noddy, I'm guessing 24". The center staff comes up through the top and has a hook. The reason I bought it is because you can spin a single on it and then wash and warp it right on the built in niddy noddy. You could spin yarn and then make something out of it while on a vacation. I'm going to try to spin enough yarn to make one more baby hat while I'm here in Asheville. I just think it would be fun to try. I'm taking pictures with my iPhone, so they won't be great, but I'll have something to share with you when I get back.
Well back to spinning. See you soon!
On the plane I made another spiral baby beanie and I'm about ready to write out the directions. I also had a lot of fun playing with my new travel toy. It's a drop spindle shaped like a niddy noddy. I paid a wopping $8.50.......
..........I gave up on this post last night, but I'm back now. You see, I'm typing this on my husband's new acer. It's a tiny little laptop and very cool for travel. Seriously, it's like 7"X10" and weighs about 2 pounds. The problem is that the keyboard is smaller and my fingers keep pushing the wrong buttons. The muscle memory is just too powerful. I actually hit a wrong key last night and it began writing in Japanese!
Today I gave my sister and brother-in-law the Baby Cozy I made for them. You know, the one from our crochet-along? Well they seemed really pleased. I also gave them the matching hat, and the spiral beanie I made on the plane and one of my Baby's First Christmas hats. I held my breath as they pulled off the tissue. As much as I love giving handmade, I always have this moment of "What if they don't like it?" I was starting to second guess my color choices and other little things. So I'm relieved and happy to report that they liked their gifts. I told them about our crochet along and how it felt even more special to be sharing the process with people. I hope your cozies will be happily received as well!
So I was talking about my travel drop spindle before. I was looking on line to try to find a link for you and I can't find where I bought it. I thought it was Halycon Yarn, but it wasn't there. I'll have to look for my packing slip when I get home. Anyway, it really is cool. Just imagine a tiny niddy noddy, I'm guessing 24". The center staff comes up through the top and has a hook. The reason I bought it is because you can spin a single on it and then wash and warp it right on the built in niddy noddy. You could spin yarn and then make something out of it while on a vacation. I'm going to try to spin enough yarn to make one more baby hat while I'm here in Asheville. I just think it would be fun to try. I'm taking pictures with my iPhone, so they won't be great, but I'll have something to share with you when I get back.
Well back to spinning. See you soon!
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