http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=110257 Featured Etsy Artist of the Week. This shop has beautiful crocheted items.
inmymindseye featured item of the week. Purchase at inmymindseye.etsy.com
New items. Scents and Suds
Blog Archive
Thursday, May 3, 2007
How to start Crochet or knitting
http://www.craftyarncouncil.com/index.html This article is taken directly from the Craft Yarn Council of AmericaGet Started Crocheting or Knitting!
• Look under "Yarns" in the Yellow Pages National chains such as Wal-Mart, craft and fabric chains such as Michaels Arts & Crafts, Jo-Ann Stores, A.C. Moore and Hobby Lobby, regional chains such as Ames Department Stores and local yarn, needlework and craft shops offer a wide range of yarns and frequently offer classes.
• Tap the Internet Yarns also are sold via mail order and the Internet. To locate these yarn resources, search on key words--knit, crochet, yarn--and you’ll discover thousands of interesting links.
• Classes are Everywhere Classes also are offered in adult-education programs, libraries, Y's, recreation centers, design schools, etc. Learning to crochet or knit in a class environment is fun. Not only do you learn basic techniques, but members of the class share project ideas and tips. Hiring a teacher for personalized lessons is another option and is especially cost-effective if you have a group of friends or business colleagues who also want to learn.
• Check out the Guilds & Clubs Page National Guilds sponsor national and regional conferences that offer interesting class programs, exhibits, fashion shows and consumer shows, offering still more opportunities to learn more about crocheting and knitting.
DISCUSSION GROUPS Ask questions, look for project ideas, share the fun. Join this discussion group especially for new crocheters and knitters.
MAGAZINES, BOOKS, TAPES, CDs & KITS Check out the list of helpful books, videos, CD-Roms, and web sites What's next?? Yarn
One of the pleasures of crocheting and knitting is working with beautiful yarn colors and textures. All yarn patterns require specific types of yarn, some mention a specific brand of yarn. There are five basic types of yarn:
baby/fingeringsport/babyworsted weightchunkybulky
Each type of yarn has a different thickness or "weight," with fingering being the finest. The term "ply," frequently seen on labels, refers to the number of strands that were twisted together to form the yarn. Yarn content or "fiber content" tells what the yarn is made of: synthetic or natural fibers or combinations of the two. Synthetic yarns, such as acrylics, are easier to wash and can be worn by people sensitive to wool.
Yarn Labels
Yarns have labels that provide all the information that you will need to know, such as the type of yarn it is, the amount and/or yardage in the ball or skein, gauge, fiber content and care instructions. Many labels also include free patterns, which are printed on the inside.
ToolsCrochet Hooks
As its name suggests, the "crochet hook" has a notch at one end for catching loops of yarn and drawing them through stitches. Aluminum, plastic and wood crochet hooks are the most commonly used, and often use the letter system for size marking. They range from B (2.25 mm) to S (19 mm), the largest, and come in 6" lengths.
For fine work, such as crocheted lace and doilies, "steel crochet hooks" are used. They have a different sizing range, using numbers from 00 (3.5 mm), the largest, to 14 (.75 mm), the smallest.
Knitting Needles
Straight knitting needles, which come in aluminum, plastic or wood, are the most commonly used. They come in varying sizes, from 0 (2 mm), the smallest, to size 15 (10 mm) and larger; they are sold in pairs, and come in 10" or 14" lengths. There is a point at one end of the needle, and a knob at the other, which prevents stitches from slipping off.
For large projects like afghans, or sweaters that can be worked in a tube without a seam, "circular knitting needles" can be used. These are long flexible needles with points at both ends. For smaller projects that do not have seams (socks and mittens) "double-pointed knitting needles" are used. These come in sets of four and as their name suggests, there is a point on each end. Now, You're ready for hands on!
Reading Patterns & Abbreviations Basic Knit Instructions
The instructions below will show you how to make a foundation row and a single crochet stitch. If you follow them exactly, you’ll complete a 7" by 9" block, which will be great practice and help a good cause: Warm Up America! Learn how your block can be joined with others to create an afghan to warm up someone in need.
With these basics, you can make a scarf, hat, pillow, bag or any number of projects.
Beginner Crochet Block
What you need:
- Worsted-weight yarn, any color or colors- Size G crochet hook;- Yarn needle with big eye- Small scissors
How to begin
Step 1: Hold crochet hook in right hand and make a slip knot on hook.
Step 2: Bring yarn over hook from back to front and grab it with hook.
Step 3: Draw hooked yarn through slip knot and onto hook. This makes one chain stitch. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 in sequence 28 more times. You should have 29 chain stitches and one loop will remain on hook.
Step 4: Skip the first chain stitch.
Step 5: Insert hook into center of next chain stitch. Draw yarn through the chain stitch and up onto the hook. There are now 2 loops on hook.
Step 6: Bring yarn over hook from back to front, and draw it through both loops on hook. One loop remains on the hook, and you have just made one single crochet stitch.
Repeat Steps 5 and 6 in each of the remaining 27 chains--be sure to work in the very last chain. You have now completed one row of single crochet. Measure your work; it should be about 7" wide. If it is too wide, try again with fewer beginning chains. If it is too narrow, try again with more beginning chains.
Step 7: At the end of the row, make one chain stitch, then turn the work counter-clockwise, leaving the hook in the chain.
Now you can begin another row, working into the stitches of the previous row.
Step 8: Make one single crochet stitch in first stitch and in each remaining stitch of the previous row. Be sure to work into the last stitch. Chain 1, turn.
Repeat Step 8 until the block measures 9" long.
Finishing: Cut the yarn from the skein, leaving a 6" end. Draw the hook straight up, bringing the yarn through the remaining loop on the hook.
Thread yarn into yarn needle and weave back and forth through stitches to secure.
For more crochet instruction, information, and fun things to do with your crocheting, go to the Getting Started page for a list of helpful books, videos, CD-Roms, and web sites. Also visit the Crochet Guild of America site, which also can be accessed by clicking on Guilds from the Getting Started page. Have patience and fun. Try your hand at knitting also.
• Look under "Yarns" in the Yellow Pages National chains such as Wal-Mart, craft and fabric chains such as Michaels Arts & Crafts, Jo-Ann Stores, A.C. Moore and Hobby Lobby, regional chains such as Ames Department Stores and local yarn, needlework and craft shops offer a wide range of yarns and frequently offer classes.
• Tap the Internet Yarns also are sold via mail order and the Internet. To locate these yarn resources, search on key words--knit, crochet, yarn--and you’ll discover thousands of interesting links.
• Classes are Everywhere Classes also are offered in adult-education programs, libraries, Y's, recreation centers, design schools, etc. Learning to crochet or knit in a class environment is fun. Not only do you learn basic techniques, but members of the class share project ideas and tips. Hiring a teacher for personalized lessons is another option and is especially cost-effective if you have a group of friends or business colleagues who also want to learn.
• Check out the Guilds & Clubs Page National Guilds sponsor national and regional conferences that offer interesting class programs, exhibits, fashion shows and consumer shows, offering still more opportunities to learn more about crocheting and knitting.
DISCUSSION GROUPS Ask questions, look for project ideas, share the fun. Join this discussion group especially for new crocheters and knitters.
MAGAZINES, BOOKS, TAPES, CDs & KITS Check out the list of helpful books, videos, CD-Roms, and web sites What's next?? Yarn
One of the pleasures of crocheting and knitting is working with beautiful yarn colors and textures. All yarn patterns require specific types of yarn, some mention a specific brand of yarn. There are five basic types of yarn:
baby/fingeringsport/babyworsted weightchunkybulky
Each type of yarn has a different thickness or "weight," with fingering being the finest. The term "ply," frequently seen on labels, refers to the number of strands that were twisted together to form the yarn. Yarn content or "fiber content" tells what the yarn is made of: synthetic or natural fibers or combinations of the two. Synthetic yarns, such as acrylics, are easier to wash and can be worn by people sensitive to wool.
Yarn Labels
Yarns have labels that provide all the information that you will need to know, such as the type of yarn it is, the amount and/or yardage in the ball or skein, gauge, fiber content and care instructions. Many labels also include free patterns, which are printed on the inside.
ToolsCrochet Hooks
As its name suggests, the "crochet hook" has a notch at one end for catching loops of yarn and drawing them through stitches. Aluminum, plastic and wood crochet hooks are the most commonly used, and often use the letter system for size marking. They range from B (2.25 mm) to S (19 mm), the largest, and come in 6" lengths.
For fine work, such as crocheted lace and doilies, "steel crochet hooks" are used. They have a different sizing range, using numbers from 00 (3.5 mm), the largest, to 14 (.75 mm), the smallest.
Knitting Needles
Straight knitting needles, which come in aluminum, plastic or wood, are the most commonly used. They come in varying sizes, from 0 (2 mm), the smallest, to size 15 (10 mm) and larger; they are sold in pairs, and come in 10" or 14" lengths. There is a point at one end of the needle, and a knob at the other, which prevents stitches from slipping off.
For large projects like afghans, or sweaters that can be worked in a tube without a seam, "circular knitting needles" can be used. These are long flexible needles with points at both ends. For smaller projects that do not have seams (socks and mittens) "double-pointed knitting needles" are used. These come in sets of four and as their name suggests, there is a point on each end. Now, You're ready for hands on!
Reading Patterns & Abbreviations Basic Knit Instructions
The instructions below will show you how to make a foundation row and a single crochet stitch. If you follow them exactly, you’ll complete a 7" by 9" block, which will be great practice and help a good cause: Warm Up America! Learn how your block can be joined with others to create an afghan to warm up someone in need.
With these basics, you can make a scarf, hat, pillow, bag or any number of projects.
Beginner Crochet Block
What you need:
- Worsted-weight yarn, any color or colors- Size G crochet hook;- Yarn needle with big eye- Small scissors
How to begin
Step 1: Hold crochet hook in right hand and make a slip knot on hook.
Step 2: Bring yarn over hook from back to front and grab it with hook.
Step 3: Draw hooked yarn through slip knot and onto hook. This makes one chain stitch. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 in sequence 28 more times. You should have 29 chain stitches and one loop will remain on hook.
Step 4: Skip the first chain stitch.
Step 5: Insert hook into center of next chain stitch. Draw yarn through the chain stitch and up onto the hook. There are now 2 loops on hook.
Step 6: Bring yarn over hook from back to front, and draw it through both loops on hook. One loop remains on the hook, and you have just made one single crochet stitch.
Repeat Steps 5 and 6 in each of the remaining 27 chains--be sure to work in the very last chain. You have now completed one row of single crochet. Measure your work; it should be about 7" wide. If it is too wide, try again with fewer beginning chains. If it is too narrow, try again with more beginning chains.
Step 7: At the end of the row, make one chain stitch, then turn the work counter-clockwise, leaving the hook in the chain.
Now you can begin another row, working into the stitches of the previous row.
Step 8: Make one single crochet stitch in first stitch and in each remaining stitch of the previous row. Be sure to work into the last stitch. Chain 1, turn.
Repeat Step 8 until the block measures 9" long.
Finishing: Cut the yarn from the skein, leaving a 6" end. Draw the hook straight up, bringing the yarn through the remaining loop on the hook.
Thread yarn into yarn needle and weave back and forth through stitches to secure.
For more crochet instruction, information, and fun things to do with your crocheting, go to the Getting Started page for a list of helpful books, videos, CD-Roms, and web sites. Also visit the Crochet Guild of America site, which also can be accessed by clicking on Guilds from the Getting Started page. Have patience and fun. Try your hand at knitting also.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Featured Artist of the Week
Judisbloomers.
Here's where you can pick up your seeds to start your outdoor garden or windowsill garden. Stop in her shop and get "bloomin"!
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5086344
Here's where you can pick up your seeds to start your outdoor garden or windowsill garden. Stop in her shop and get "bloomin"!
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5086344
Time to Start Your Garden
The ground is getting soft and in most places the chill is gone from the air. You know you're itchy to get outdoors. What a better way to get some fresh air and sunshine then to get dirty and start a garden?
Below is an article from Home and Garden T.V. to get you going.
Starting a Garden
Gardening by the Yard : Episode GBY-110
Any time is a good time to start a garden as long as the ground isn't frozen solid or soaking wet. For many new to gardening, starting small is the preferred choice. Bugs, weeds and diseases can often prove to be discouraging. As your confidence and abilities increase, so can the size of your garden!
Try to situate your garden in an area that gets at least six hours of sun a day. Typically, that's going to be a spot that faces either due south or southeast. Your garden also needs to be conveniently placed near the house and a water source. If you have a compost pile, place the garden in close proximity to make it easier to maintain. Keep your garden away from mature trees that could invade your soil with their roots. Underground utility lines should also be avoided for this reason.
Another important consideration is providing air circulation for your garden. Avoid keeping plants beside solid walls or fences. This will reduce the likelihood of fungal diseases attacking your plants.
To mark the perimeter of your garden, use a string attached to stakes, or use a garden hose. To keep grass from growing into the garden, use a border--plastic, metal, wood, stone or even a plain trench will serve this purpose.
Most likely, your garden will be covered with turfgrass. Do not till this grass into the soil as it will only produce thousands of tiny sprigs that will sprout again. Remove the sod with a shovel to a depth of about four inches and cart from the garden. Replace this sod with a mixture of leaves and compost to a depth of three or four inches. Water this area well for a week or two. If you see any weeds pop up, a slight tug will solve the problem. The sod you removed can be used to cover bare spots in the yard or can be stacked upside down and in layers to turn to compost later. If clay or rock is a problem in your garden, you can construct a frame on top of the ground for planting--be sure to use rot-resistant lumber! Once filled with organic matter, it's ready to plant.
I'm going to add some notes of my own here.
Compost! Keep a spot in your garden or near your garden that can be made into a compost heap. Any vegetable or fruit scraps along with leaves and yard cuttings will be dumped onto this pile. You can use a three sided box for a holding pen, it can be made from wood or metal. I prefer chicken wire for ventilation. Don't use heavy cuttings they'll take too long to break down.
Don't despair if you don't have the room for a garden. Rubber, heavy plastic or clay pots make wonderful flower or vegetable gardens. Make sure there are holes drilled in the bottoms for proper drainage or your plants will develop root rot.
There's also the roof garden if you're ambitious. That you will have to check with an expert on how to do this project correctly as to protect your roof.
Below is an article from Home and Garden T.V. to get you going.
Starting a Garden
Gardening by the Yard : Episode GBY-110
Any time is a good time to start a garden as long as the ground isn't frozen solid or soaking wet. For many new to gardening, starting small is the preferred choice. Bugs, weeds and diseases can often prove to be discouraging. As your confidence and abilities increase, so can the size of your garden!
Try to situate your garden in an area that gets at least six hours of sun a day. Typically, that's going to be a spot that faces either due south or southeast. Your garden also needs to be conveniently placed near the house and a water source. If you have a compost pile, place the garden in close proximity to make it easier to maintain. Keep your garden away from mature trees that could invade your soil with their roots. Underground utility lines should also be avoided for this reason.
Another important consideration is providing air circulation for your garden. Avoid keeping plants beside solid walls or fences. This will reduce the likelihood of fungal diseases attacking your plants.
To mark the perimeter of your garden, use a string attached to stakes, or use a garden hose. To keep grass from growing into the garden, use a border--plastic, metal, wood, stone or even a plain trench will serve this purpose.
Most likely, your garden will be covered with turfgrass. Do not till this grass into the soil as it will only produce thousands of tiny sprigs that will sprout again. Remove the sod with a shovel to a depth of about four inches and cart from the garden. Replace this sod with a mixture of leaves and compost to a depth of three or four inches. Water this area well for a week or two. If you see any weeds pop up, a slight tug will solve the problem. The sod you removed can be used to cover bare spots in the yard or can be stacked upside down and in layers to turn to compost later. If clay or rock is a problem in your garden, you can construct a frame on top of the ground for planting--be sure to use rot-resistant lumber! Once filled with organic matter, it's ready to plant.
I'm going to add some notes of my own here.
Compost! Keep a spot in your garden or near your garden that can be made into a compost heap. Any vegetable or fruit scraps along with leaves and yard cuttings will be dumped onto this pile. You can use a three sided box for a holding pen, it can be made from wood or metal. I prefer chicken wire for ventilation. Don't use heavy cuttings they'll take too long to break down.
Don't despair if you don't have the room for a garden. Rubber, heavy plastic or clay pots make wonderful flower or vegetable gardens. Make sure there are holes drilled in the bottoms for proper drainage or your plants will develop root rot.
There's also the roof garden if you're ambitious. That you will have to check with an expert on how to do this project correctly as to protect your roof.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Featured Artist of the Week Craftheart
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=45409This is another talented and exceptional giving person I have met as a member of Etsy. She has taken the time and written so well the information below.
I had asked her to please give advice on how we can start getting involved with our Enlisted Men and Women.
If you are like I am, I'm not sure just where to begin. Or, what I can do with a some time limited level of commitment. I usually find out that a little goes a long way.
How you can support your Enlisted Men and Women
My husband was active duty air force for 20 years, and is just recently retired.
It is a totally different way of life, but you get used to it. You have no other choice.
We have spent many birthdays, anniversaries, thanksgivings, and christmases apart. My husband has missed his fair share of kids lost teeth and school plays. I could go on forever, but I won't.
I know many people want to help the military and their families.
I know that for a while, sending pkgs. to an active duty member had to be ADDRESSED to a particular member. Due to high security and safety issues, they were no longer able to accept pkgs. addressed to any service member. If you contact a military base near you and ask to speak to the family support center, they often times will collect items that are being sent to their troops overseas. Many churches, etc. in your area, are most likely doing the same, and if not, why not start one yourself? I know firsthand from my hubby that they LIVE for the mail! Chocolate does not fare well, but any other types of treats, small games, fun stuff, pocket calendars, baby wipes to wash up, etc. Everything is shared and appreciated.
If you DO contact a Family Support center, please ask what you can also do for the family. Sometimes we are forgotten. Many wives are pregnant or have a new baby and are in need of small things like diapers, bibs, etc etc. Services are the #1 thing always appreciated. Maybe you know someone with a lawn service who would be happy to "adopt" a military family while the spouse is away and offer free lawn mowing! BELIEVE ME, IT IS A GODSEND!
One of the biggest things is how the family left behind ends up being forgotten after a time. In the beginning, friends, family etc are all well meaning and willing to help, but then somehow get wrapped up in their own day to day lives and forget what we are going thru each day. It doesnt get easier as time goes on, it gets harder. If you are looking to help a military member or his family, i say GO FOR IT. It will be appreciated more than you will ever know. I've been there, I know. -craftheart-
I am going to add a small note.
Please remember the Veterans. I would ask your local Veteran's Administration Hospital if you could volunteer your time when you have a few hours here and there to spare.
Buy a poppy for their annual fundraiser.
When you enjoy your hometown parade, cheer and clap loudly for your marching ex and currently active members as they pass by.
It is a totally different way of life, but you get used to it. You have no other choice.
We have spent many birthdays, anniversaries, thanksgivings, and christmases apart. My husband has missed his fair share of kids lost teeth and school plays. I could go on forever, but I won't.
I know many people want to help the military and their families.
I know that for a while, sending pkgs. to an active duty member had to be ADDRESSED to a particular member. Due to high security and safety issues, they were no longer able to accept pkgs. addressed to any service member. If you contact a military base near you and ask to speak to the family support center, they often times will collect items that are being sent to their troops overseas. Many churches, etc. in your area, are most likely doing the same, and if not, why not start one yourself? I know firsthand from my hubby that they LIVE for the mail! Chocolate does not fare well, but any other types of treats, small games, fun stuff, pocket calendars, baby wipes to wash up, etc. Everything is shared and appreciated.
If you DO contact a Family Support center, please ask what you can also do for the family. Sometimes we are forgotten. Many wives are pregnant or have a new baby and are in need of small things like diapers, bibs, etc etc. Services are the #1 thing always appreciated. Maybe you know someone with a lawn service who would be happy to "adopt" a military family while the spouse is away and offer free lawn mowing! BELIEVE ME, IT IS A GODSEND!
One of the biggest things is how the family left behind ends up being forgotten after a time. In the beginning, friends, family etc are all well meaning and willing to help, but then somehow get wrapped up in their own day to day lives and forget what we are going thru each day. It doesnt get easier as time goes on, it gets harder. If you are looking to help a military member or his family, i say GO FOR IT. It will be appreciated more than you will ever know. I've been there, I know. -craftheart-
I am going to add a small note.
Please remember the Veterans. I would ask your local Veteran's Administration Hospital if you could volunteer your time when you have a few hours here and there to spare.
Buy a poppy for their annual fundraiser.
When you enjoy your hometown parade, cheer and clap loudly for your marching ex and currently active members as they pass by.
Sunday, March 18, 2007
How to start ~ Helping animals
Not many people have the space, or time or the money to run an animal rescue like luna2005.
How can you help?
Very basically every organization needs money to operate. If you'd like to give something more personal, I'd suggest calling your local animal shelter and ask what they are in need of. I work for the Animal Rescue League of the Palm Beaches. We suggest, treats, canned food, plastic bags (for poopie bags), newspaper for cages, towels, blankets, toys, and cleaning supplies. Please ask if there's any restrictions on food or treats that can be given. Some vets consider rawhide and catnip nono's.
Are you a more hands on person? Find out about joining your shelter's volunteer program.
Also see what type of fundraising they do. You may have a business that could donate a service. We also have animals come in matted and we had a groomer come in once to give some of our animals cuts.
Every little bit counts.
How can you help?
Very basically every organization needs money to operate. If you'd like to give something more personal, I'd suggest calling your local animal shelter and ask what they are in need of. I work for the Animal Rescue League of the Palm Beaches. We suggest, treats, canned food, plastic bags (for poopie bags), newspaper for cages, towels, blankets, toys, and cleaning supplies. Please ask if there's any restrictions on food or treats that can be given. Some vets consider rawhide and catnip nono's.
Are you a more hands on person? Find out about joining your shelter's volunteer program.
Also see what type of fundraising they do. You may have a business that could donate a service. We also have animals come in matted and we had a groomer come in once to give some of our animals cuts.
Every little bit counts.
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