Heldasland

Inside Crochet issue 26

2012-01-09T23:21:00.004Z

In issue 26 of Inside Crochet I have another pattern published.It is a set of shawls made in the colours of the chakra.It is so exciting to see my work in print.These shawl are made in one of my favourite yarns Jawoll from Artyarns.Soft strong and very long.It makes the perfect size for those who rather a neckerchief than a shawl. Perfect quick and easy.I have added a beaded edge to each which I think finishes it off .I love the colours they make me feel happy whenever I work with such bright juicy yarn.

I'm so very busy at the moment.I have also started a diet .I have put on an incredible amount of weight over the last few months.I have been silly to let the weight creep back on, everyday I vowed to sort it out, but I just couldn't.I made so many excuses ,but, not anymore.Over the Christmas I ate for two,no, I am not pregnant I just look like I am.Well I have started and I'm now on day 5.God, today I really want to eat some chips and right now I am dying to eat chocolate.I have resisted and I am rather proud.Let's hope I will resist for a few days more.Wish me luck I need all the help I can get

Wahaca

2011-12-28T23:39:00.004Z

Street art on the ceilings in Wahaca

We decided to have a meal a Wahaca in the westfield shopping center. Before I tantalise you with our meal let me say unless you are really very desperate ,do not venture in the madness that has gripped london,namely the January sales. I cannot stand crowds( except when buying yarn) this place was packed with shoppers killing themselves for a bargain or two. Now, I'm all for getting a reduction,why spend more than you have too? but, I just wish people would try to be a bit more polite.I can't tell you how many people pushed into me I found myself apologising and getting grumpy even though I was not the culprit.Good manners cost nothing ,why do people find it so hard to be polite it is almost seen as a weakness. It is such a shame.

If you dont know Wahaca sells Mexican street food. The above pic is called a Tequila experience .Apparently, voted the best tequila in the world.El Tesoro's blanco(with sangrita), Reposado and Anejo all to be taken before, during and after the meal.They pack a punch .4 Small expresso sized cups with a little in each .Very nice and I do recommend you try them

To further wet my appetite, a bottle of Modelo Negra beer served in a glass with lime juice and a salt rim.I cant tell you how great it was. I'm not a beer drinker but this does not taste of beer , it was a dark yeasty ,salty, limey delight

We decided with all the loveliness on the menu that it would be a good idea to try a few bits. The lovely waiter recommended a wahaca selection. First to arrive was three soft tacos with grilled steak with grilled cheese.This was good

Then this deliciously tender slow cooked pork in a special yucatecan marinade.This was so good.

Then quesadillas ,a toasted tortilla filled with sauteed mushrooms,mexican corn mushroom and melted cheese.Delicious and i will be making a variation of these at home.I will use just cheese, chillies and coriander .

2 chicken taquitos with green rice and black beans. i didnt like this much as it was fried and was a little greasy.I love fried things as long as they are cooked properly there is nothing worst that something soggy. The salsa and rice were amazing.

Then we had 3 winter vegetable tacos with an intense pasilla chilli salsa this was great.I forgot to take a pic. Last was two crisp tortillas piled high with refried beans topped with avocado salsa, crema, lancanshire cheese and tomato salsa.Very fresh .I added some of their chipolte sauce,picante and so good . It was a fabulously meal and very cheap £44.00 including drinks for two.Very filling,I had to lie down as soon as I got home. Do try them you wont be disappointed.

Ta dah

2011-12-20T14:23:00.002Z

I have been buying more yarn.I have never used this stuff before It is 100 wool.I like the drops brand it is very economical and very nice to work with. The alpaca is deliciously soft.I bought mine from here.Scandinavian knitting Design (sorry for some reason hyperlink doesnt work).

this is my ta daa .I love footstools I have changed the fabric on this one quite a few times. I made these dollies all time ago.I have wanted to add them to my footstool for so long.

I love it .I used a hot glue gun to stick them on .I have alot of dollies from my mum and stuff I have made in the past.I would love to have them randomly stuck on the windowpane, it would look like snowflakes but his highness says it would look silly.Well, excuse me silly or not I think it would look great.Im off to sulk!!!!!

Christmas is coming

2011-12-19T13:07:00.003Z

Nez and I decided to have lunch and spend the day together .We had lunch in selfridges and took some pictures of the gorgeous windows.

Oh my gosh, please can someone buy me this ????

I love the robot with the damsel in distress, perhaps she has had a glass too much.

It really was a treat. We bought some pressies for family and some yarn for ourselves and then we tried to get to Covent garden .We are both completely hopeless at directions .We walked up and down roads.We studied street maps for what seemed like hours.We managed to get there almost two hours late. It was so lovely to catch up with all our lovely crafting friends. It was the perfect way to end a lovely day.

Inside Crochet issue 23

2011-12-05T15:10:00.009Z

In this month's Inside crochet magazine issue 25 I am very lucky to have to designs published, what a treat .It still thrills me everytime I see my name in print.As with all I make I like to make simple things.In a life filled with so many distractions it is so important for me at least, to crochet stuff that can fit in.

The first design is a unisex cowl.It features a mock cabled pattern made in chunky alpaca.The second design is my colourful shawl.I love this, it is made in what I think is a gloriously happy yarn, mini mochi .It is so bright and beautifully soft, simple to make.Both designs are simple to make and are great quick last minute xmas gifts.

Do check out the magazine it is filled with lovely things to make and read .It is available in most supermarkets ,whsmiths and all good newsagents and of course online.I have been thinking lately about taking out digital subscriptions.I' m a great lover of books and love the feel and smell of a book, however space is so limited in my home that I have too many books and magazines.Yet, I'm still not sure I will enjoy my magazines digitally, have any of you switched over? I have a kindle and I love it but I still find myself ordering books ,i wonder how long it takes before I fully embrace the digital era.

Drama and drops alpaca

2011-11-20T21:59:00.004Z

Is it me or is time flying by?every day seems to roll in to the next and I don't seem to be getting any further in anything I have in my 'to do' list. We have had a few mad weeks .My daughter had a sore throat that turned into tonsillitis and ended with her been admitted into hospital with a severe allergic reaction to penicillin. Her reaction was so extreme we could have lost her.I'm glad to say it ended very well and she is now back at home and knee deep in her second year of A levels and applying to uni's.We are all so very relieved and very happy.

I'm sure you have noticed my new stash of yarn I have been very naughty, but it is all necessary I needed to steady my nerves after all that drama with my baby.Its Drops alpaca, so soft and so very nice to crochet with.Very cheap for 100% alpaca.They are all destined to become xmas gifts but I'd better get my act together as time is flying by. I would like to say to all my friends I am sorry for lack of contact but as I have mentioned life keeps getting in the way but you are always on my mind.

Inside Crochet issue 23

2011-11-10T02:46:00.004Z

I have a pattern in this month's Inside crochet issue 23. It is so exciting seeing my work in a publication.Designing a pattern is great fun and I really enjoy watching the pattern unfold as I make them. There is certainly something magical when a ball o f string and a hook equals clothing ,accessories, blankets ,toys.The list of things to make is endless hence the reason we keep buying just one more skein of yarn.When will we ever have enough????????????

Montana Williamson

2011-10-27T15:02:00.007+01:00

Some of the finalists of the Knitting and Stitching show at Alexander Palace.

(Before I start can anyone help I am having some problems with blogger I can not seem to get spaces between my paragraghs. I hate reading my blog with great blocks of writing.)

Yes, that's right the girl in the first picture is my beautiful daughter Montana Williamson the graduate .Once again she has made me grin from ear to ear. She has come second place in the 2011 Alexander palace textile award.I have added the link to the UK.hand knitting .com .It shows all the students work, it is truly inspirational. She is off to Harrogate's knitting and stitching show in November.

I have knitted and crocheted most of my life .I started because we didn't have alot of money and it was a cheaper way for me to have fashionable items at half the cost. I never imagined that years later my knitting would influence my daughter so much that she would have a career in it.

I'm sure you can imagine the amount of yarn and yarn paraphenalia we have at home. My youngest daughter also knits and she crochets beautifully. In fact, years ago we went to the Stitch London annual knit in public day and I believe she was at that time the youngest member.I am so very proud that my girls have this wonderful skill to share with their friends and children.Long live crochet and knitting..

All is quiet

2011-10-21T16:18:00.004+01:00

I'm finding I don't have enough hours in the day to update my blog. I'm in knee deep in yarn,I am making lots of stuff but I cant share it with you until it is published . Im also trying to declutter and decorate before Xmas.I have really neglected my home .I have been feeling tired of being the only person who cares if the house is clean.I guess I'm feeling unappreciated .It will pass .Im just not able to sleep, every night this week I have gone to bed at 4.30 ish. Morning comes around so quickly .Ok , moan over.

I bought these hooks recently from Ally Pally knitting show. They are made in Japan, a company called Tulip. They come in different colours I opted for the pink.I'm happy to report they are wonderful to work with.The handle is rubber and this makes it lovely to hold. The neck and shaft are perfect and makes crocheting an absolute delight.

when I first started crocheting I used the standard metal hooks .I quickly developed wrist pain and my fingers ached.Ever since I have been in search to find the perfect hook. My absolute fave hook is the Crochetlite range .Very difficult to get over here I have been getting mine from the US on eBay.I like these new ones just as much. I think my search for the hook set is finally over ,that is until the new range of these is launched. I am a sucker for crochet hooks.I have just thought how many crochet hooks does a girl really need.

Have a lovely weekend

2011-09-22T13:45:00.002+01:00

My latest bed time reads.The crochet traditions is from the interweave press group.It is a fabulous read filled with lots of history, there are some amazing crochet lace projects.I have decided that I wil not be buying any more knitting magazines as I very rarely knit.The house is overloaded with magazines.I 'm becoming more and more drawn to take out a digital subscriptions,but Im not sure if I will enjoy it as I like to read a nagazine in bed.

We are in the era of computers having far too much info about us. sitting there waiting to be stolen. Is it safe? Well I dont think so as I have had people getting into my account and spending £600 and on a second occasion £300. I think these people are very clever.I have no idea how they do it,How do they get through a security checks? I have often forgotten my password and it is so difficult to get my own money how do the thieves get it.It makes you wonder if the staff in the banks are involved. Im not sure if I like the digital era ,I cant live without it it has become a necessary evil.

2011-09-16T13:55:00.014+01:00

It has been far too long since I have posted .I have been extremely busy trying desperately to sort out my life. Something inside me has changed. I have a constant feeling of 'what is the point' .I have not been able to sleep, my mind is constantly whizzing.I'm finding even reading too difficult.I love reading it is my from of escaping .I love my kindle it is the greatest invention it reads to me while I work ,fabulous, but lately I can not remember any of the books i have read.I think I need a holiday, my mum is once again on a cruise 11 days of being looked after,what bliss.

A couple of weeks ago Nez and I met for a spot of lunch and some yarn therapy.We often pop down carnaby street to the fun shop' All the fun of the fair' I bought some lovely cotton .Very economical and in a beautiful range of colours between us we bought nearly the whole stock. I feel so tired I'm finding it hard to even blog, so I will stop and come back when I feel up to it

More yarn

2011-08-22T11:39:00.003+01:00

These are my latest purchases from Loop, Malabrigo sock yarn in a delicious chocolate shade

I bought a skein of wollmeise from knit nation .The colours remind me of the beautiful peacock feathers.Well ,said yarn looks lovely as a skein but once you start to crochet it,it doesn't look quite so nice.So I bought this , (the actual colour is pinker ).It is a perfect match and breaks up the colour .They look lovely together.I'm making a shawl for my mum she has green eyes and this combo looks amazing on her.

A beautiful skein of Madelintosh.(I have been trying to add the hyperlink so you can see other colours but for some unknown reason it is not working)

These beauties are Misti alpaca,cant tell you how soft this yarn is, I love this combination, soft scrummy alpaca, don't they look amazing together?

I have always thought of myself as a sensible woman .I don't buy things impulsively.I'm very good at saving money in all areas of life, however it seems I have an alter ego .She spends an unbelievable amount of money on yarn and accessories.She can not walk past any yarn shop and not buy something.She cannot go one week without buying yarny stuff.She hides yarn all over the place .She has recently decided to give to charity some crockery she never uses just so she can use the space for yarn. She is a weak person who had vowed to not buy any more yarn until at least half of her stash was used. Not only has she bought this stash ,last Friday she popped in to Nest yarn shop and bought even more. It is official ,my name is Helda and I am a yarn addict.I feel better already admitting it is half the battle, or so I'm told.

My Kindle now has a pretty case and a light for those moments in the dark when you just have to finish that last chapter. At first I didn't quite believe I would like the kindle .I love books more than anything else .I love the smell of books I love holding them.I really did not believe that I would forsake books .How wrong could I be .Kindle is wonderful. It can reads to you which means i have more time crochet , you can change the print size making it larger or smaller.My fav bit is that you can get on the internet ,browse for hours and buy more books at the click of a button.It fits my handbag. Genius .I love kindle

Weekend treats

2011-08-08T13:45:00.000+01:00

Sunday afternoon I decided to go to Loop . They moved location and the shop is lovely .So spacious filled with such beautiful treats. A real treasure.They have a perfect location .Filled with lots of shoppers .

I needed to go as I had bought two skeins of yarn in colours I wouldn't normally pick. I wanted to use brighter colours of some of my latest patterns I have written. Try as I might I could not help cringing with every stitch made.It real does go to show that I really must like the yarn I am using. If I don't I cant seem to work with it One wolmeise, one from Kaola yarns. Both once wound look absolutely hideous.

Staff at loop helped me out with the Wolleise, perdect match was found as for the Koala yarns , it was just to diffcult to find a match .As soon as I can I will upload the results.

Im am constantly watching sky news watching the terrible events taking place in every neighbour hood.It is pretty scary.I hope they can put an end to it today.I sympathise with all those people who have damaged home, cars, and many who have lots there businesses.Terrible.

Gifts

2011-08-03T16:32:00.002+01:00

I recently celebrated my birthday with my nearest and dearest family.I have been after a kindle for such along time but just couldn't seem to justify spending £152 when I can read all the books for free from the library. His highness solved my dilemma and bought me one. I'm thrilled to bits and have been downloaded all those books I have wanted to read..It is wonderful and I had taken it to almost everywhere I go.I lovvvve it.

The crochet hooks are the new symphonie hooks from here. It is not listed which is rather strange I bought them at Knit nation .They are extremely beautiful to look at each one has a swarkoski crystal .They are very nice to work with ,very smooth with no catching.They are a present from me to me. Great idea don't you agree?After all I'm worth it!!!

My camera died and I have been on the hunt for a nice replacement.I'm not very good with cameras that have to many functions.I want a camera that you press one button and you have a picture. A close up function is also very important , but that is all I need. It is very difficult to get that format.Getting a camera is almost as complicated as getting a PC This camera above is what I bought in the end. I hope it will serve me well.

Wollmeise

2011-08-02T13:05:00.004+01:00

I love my stash and I wanted to show each purchase individually.These four are Wollmeise. I like wollmeise but I'm not as mad for it as others.Admittedly the colours are gorgeous .However I don't find it as soft as some .The blue and grey are destined for my brother and the 'Mr'

I have been in bed for days it is my kidneys,I have medication but it is taking far too long to stop the pain. Im fed up and cant wait for it to go away. A plus side has been I have had plenty of time browsing ravelry.Some people creat works of art.It is great fun and very inspiration.I can't imagine anyone hasn't heard about ravelry you must go immediately I promise it will change your life
..

knit nation stash

2011-07-29T11:49:00.002+01:00

My stash from knit nation I went a bit potty and this is what I have.Can you tell I love wool?It was a wonderful day .I 'm gutted that it wont be on as it is the same time as the olympics.I guess that is why I bought so much I've saved alot on p&p.

If you have ever thought about attending please do it is a great experience.Just watching the scrum for wollmeise is so funny.It was a stampede , eve all eager to have just one skein. They became rude pushing and shoving.I refuse to fight for wool. I queued up waited patiently hoping they had not sold out.I bought four skeins.It was a ight to see grown women and men going nuts for wool.

Graduation 2011

2011-07-22T13:00:00.003+01:00

Wednesday was the proudest day of my life.My eldest daughter received her degree.We had an amazing day at the Royal festival Hall. My daughter went off to get her gown as soon as I saw her I started to cry. I never really cry but I was so overcome with pride, happiness.She finally did it.I also cried as I have been very ill throughout her A levels right through to her degree and a various points of that period I thought I would not see her graduate.I am so glad I was wrong.I did make it and it was such a great thing to be part of.

Well done darling we love you dearly and we are so proud.

Knit nation

2011-07-19T16:23:00.005+01:00

The 15th,16th,17th was the long awited Knitnation organised by the wonderful Alice of socktopus co-hosted with the talented sock designer Cookie A. I had booked the beginners lace course taught by the wonderful Marjan Hammick.It was a wonderful lesson however, I learnt that next time I will do either a morning or afternoon class as my concentration waned after lunch. It was from 9 to 5 intense concentration as we where learning how to read charts, add a life line, add an edging all whilst making a triangular neck down shawl.I can honestly say my brain felt over loaded.I was suddenly desperate for a shot of caffeine. Marjan was amazing and she has such a great knack at explaining ,she is extremely patient ,Marjan bought examples of her work.I am in awe, her work is exquisite.I throughly recommend doing this workshop .I learnt alot of new skills. worth every penny.
This was the queue on the friday preview.

I love the name of this yarn "To Dye For" it was an appropiate phrase because if you had been there when the marketplace doors were opened you would have witnessed women who clearly would die for wollmeise .There was an almightly stampede towards the Loop yarns. wollmeise section.

I like wolmeise but I would not run for it or fight for it.There actually was alot of tension in this queue the desperation for wollmeise was palpable .The queue to pay was 17 mins.I know this because I was in the queue.I will share my stash in the next post I just want to share my pictures of the marketplace.

This is one of my favourite yarn shops.Habu Textiles specialises in the more unusual yarns.

I love this gima cotton

Alices sock yarn Sokkusu all dyed by her.Truly lovely .

Beautiful storage solutions .I bought one of these

Wollmeise

This is one of my favouite yarns it is so soft

more wollmeise

I love this picture
I loved the preview so much but I didnt get everything that was on my list as we only had two hours to buy. So Saturday afternoon I went back. Come back for the unveiling of my stash it is pretty impressive.

Inside Crochet

2011-07-12T23:46:00.005+01:00

This is a preview of next month's Inside Crochet magazine.The blue scarf is made by me. It is an unbelievable feeling having your work in a magazine.I still can't quite believe it .

What is really wonderful are these pics of readers scarves from my pattern.It is very interesting to see the scarf made in different yarns.I love seeing how others have adapted the pattern to suit them.It is a great feeling to think I have inspired someone to pick up a hook.

The Rapunzel scarf and the Tangle twister scarf are also my patterns published in issue 16 and 14. Inside Crochet is the only crochet magazine in the UK.It is packed with wonderful projects, yarn reviews, crochet book reviews and all things crochet .I enjoy the interviews It is great to have a magazine that celebrates crochet. These are the patterns in this months issue.

I really like the barefoot sandals,such a lovely thing to wear sitting by the pool somewhere nice and hot. I quite like the idea of wearing them around the house as I tend to be barefooted at home.Just a perfect project that doesn't use alot of yarn.

Polymer Crochet hooks

2011-07-08T14:45:00.002+01:00

As I am sure I have mentioned I suffer with aching hands.I know I should take more break but sometimes the ideas keep coming and I cant stop. If I do it all disappears.I am always on the look out for special ergonomic hooks.

This wonderful hook is made by Debi Y .I asked her where she had purchased these, she did not buy them but made them herself.Isn't she clever.? She has even posted a tutorial just for me.I am so honoured that she had the time to post this very comprehensive tutorial. Thank you Debi.This weekend I'm off to buy some polymer clay and I hope I will have time to make one over the weekend .I will post result asap.Once again ,Thank you Debi.

2011-07-05T01:19:00.002+01:00

Im getting really really mad I must try and calm down .I have been trying to leave comments to those blogs I follow .I sign in the usual way I cooment and it just keeps sending me back to the sign in page over and over again.Does anyone know what I should do? I am knee deep in designing patterns.Im finding it very difficult to blog, crochet, write patterns cook ,clean ,laundry .I wish I had another me, so i could share the load.Im tired all the time, a little cranky at times.I wish others at home would be a little bit more helpful. It would be lovely to have meal cooked for me instead of me always providing meals. I have always been a great lover of cooking but for the past 7 months I hate it. Trying to provide healthy tasty food is driving me mad

Degree result

2011-06-28T13:37:00.003+01:00

My daughter's past her degree with a 2;1.Isn't that just wonderful?I'm so proud.She has also won a place at the New designers show .

She is a textile designer.She likes to recycle and has used video tape, newspaper, old t'shirts, bottle tops,All knitted or crocheted .All very unusual materials but the finished articles are amazing.We will be going o the show tomorrow I'll take loads of pictures to share her work.I'm so proud of her,

My latest crochet hook ,Addi and Prym .The Prym has a lovely rubber handle that make it very comfortable.to use, I got mine from Purplelinda. They are very cheap .I think they are a nice addition to the ever expanding hooks collection.

The Addi I'm not that keen. on. The handle has ridges that make it a bit rough in my hand.Isn't it funny that every brand of hook is so very different to work with and we all have our favourites.I have so many brands of hooks .I love the crochet lite.They are very difficult to get in UK. I've managed to get some on eBay.Does any one know a stockist in the UK ?What is your favouite hook?

More Yarn

2011-06-24T12:59:00.003+01:00

I have had one of the most stressful weeks of my life, I cant talk about it until the matter has been resolved . I am so glad that I have crochet as my best friend as it is the only thing that makes me stop thinking about it. I love to crochet and I need to crochet everyday or else I get a little moody.It makes me very happy to sit with a hook and a ball of yarn and a few hours later I will have a gorgeous fabric. As crafters are very lucky people.I look at friends who just watch telly I want to shout out 'don't just sit there, make something.' My hands can not be idle.

On a brighter note I have had two more patterns accepted and will be in upcoming Inside Crochet mag. All very exciting.I still can't quite believe I have had two patterns published.

I have once again been seduced by my lover , his name is yarn. He whispers sweet nothings in my ear, knowing I am weak . These latest balls are from Knitting goddess.

The grey slate colour is 100% cashmere it is do soft. The yellow is is super wash merino 4ply.Last but not least mini skeins. Aren't they lovely?

I'm off to play with new yarn.

Hooks

2011-06-15T13:10:00.002+01:00

I have so much crochet hooks, yet sometimes I cant find that perfect hook. I think I have found them These crochet lites are fabulous.It has a wonderful ergonomic shape , all with a light that is perfect whilst watching movies in the dark.The light is also makes it easier to see the stitches when using darker yarns. I hold my hook like a pen, this hook has a wonderful rubber oval finger rest .It is a dream to work with, I thoroughly recommend them .I cant find a UK stockist these came from America on eBay.If any one knows a uk stockist please let me know.I want a complete set.

Naughty girl

2011-06-08T15:48:00.005+01:00

I have been a very very bad girl. Just wanted a few new balls of yarn. I needed some new yarn to cheer myself up. The computer does realy strange things .It knows all my favourite shops and it fills my basket ,

These four skeins of yarn are Drops designs, Delight, and it really is just a good soft sockyarn

Kauni, I have been eying this yarn for ages.I am a little diappointed they are not very nice to handle feels like a very coarse scouring pad I am making a few things I just hope when washed and blocked it will feel alot nicer

The Kauni and fabel ,delight are all from this shop. They have a special offer at the moment. For a little inspiration check out these beautiful shawls from ravelry

They are beautiful to look at.
I dont know what has happened but just keep scrolling down there seems to be a lot of space between photos, I have quite a few balls

2011-06-07T14:34:00.003+01:00

Yesterdays dinner yellowfin chargrilled tuna with a spicy vegetable rice.The rice colour is from beautiful spanish saffron all served with a beautiful green lemony salad .I cook virtually everyday but I stiill can not remember to take a photo .It was my brother that mentioned why dont I take piccies of what we eat, so I think its a great idea and I shall try .

Anyway life has taken me aaway from my beloved

2011-05-20T00:13:00.002+01:00

Exhibit A shows the effects of drinking wine whilst knitting, can you see how wobbly my central line is?. It is dreadful. Now, usually I am one who can not bear to have work that has mistakes I unravel it and start over.
But, somehow I cant unravel this. This project has been in the unfinished cupboard for two whole years,yes two years. I could only finish it if I drank some wine . I found I'd fallen out of love with it.I also could not remember what pattern I was using so I had to improvise with my favourite feather and fan pattern. I just cant start over .

I used two 50g balls of regia yarn from the wonderful Kaffe fassett range I wish Icould tell you where I bought it but it has been so long.I am keeping it mistakes and all .I will wear it at home to remind myself not to drink wine whilst knitting/crocheting.

Jelly baby sculptures #2

2011-05-12T01:00:00.000+01:00

Jelly baby sculptures #2
Originally uploaded by C.K.H..

I have been trying to get the prefect pic of these gorgeous jelly baby sculptures.This is a wonderful picture it catches the essence of it all .I love them

They are at marble arch and look very pretty at night as they have lights that really look great. Great fun for the family and a wonderful way to get children thinking about modern scupltures this image is from flickr.

Crochet Socks

2011-05-04T12:34:00.003+01:00

I spotted these motifs that you are supposed to hook onto bracelets.I bought them to use as stitch markers.Can you believe they are only £1 for two.They are from Primark

I have tons of Regia yarn . This yarn is from Kaffe Fassett range. The last sock I crocheted came out pointed at the heel, and it was very tight at the instep, there is no' give 'at all.I'm determined to find a pattern that will be OK. I buy so many magazines I have a enormous amount to read.I have had Interweave crochet for ages. I only looked at it last nite .Low and behold a pattern that caught my eye. The socks are crocheted sideways. They are very stretchy and I think they might be the one.I will post pictures as soon as Ive finished them.
.

Granny mandala

2011-04-30T16:47:00.003+01:00

London Marathon has come and gone ,William and Kate have been married one whole day, nothing that exciting for me but I have been busy making coasters and potholders for friends and family. These are all made with a variety of odds and ends from stash. Most are rico creative cotton. The white is Debbie Bliss Dk cotton. For me , there is nothing as wonderful looking ,so fresh and crisp as work in cotton.

The pattern for these comes from the simple mandala pattern from here

141 people have made these in the most wonderful colour combinations , you can't help getting out the hook to have a few of these at home once you have had a look.

I have been after these white mus for awhile .I always managed to get there too late always sold out, until thursday these two mugs waiting for me in sainsburys.I love the texture it really looks like a knitted cable cup cosy.I love them.

Weeds are beautiful too

2011-04-27T16:04:00.001+01:00

I like and enjoy a well maintained garden just like everyone else but there really is a certain beauty in unruly,weedy garden.His highness loves to have a perfect lawn, mowed within an inch of its life.He loves bushes and plants that are neat and pruned.

I ,on the other hand love grass that has weeds,dandelion flowers, not sure what the blue flowers are in the above picture, but they just popped up in amongst the knees high grass, the shed has had decidedly better days but I love the way the timber had faded and it is just a piece of weather beaten wood, not that different to me. A few screws and a lick of varnish with a bit of TLC and it will be as good as new, not unlike myself.

Could there be anything quite as pretty as these dandelion seed heads,they remind me so much of my favourite kidsilk haze yarn , it has such ethereal qualities.My camera is dying but isn't this the most delightful shot?

Have you seen the beautiful blossoms of my cherry tree, they remind me of all those beautiful Toulouse Lactrec paintings of Moulin Rouge. A place I have always longed to go just because of his paintings are so evocative.

Sometimes there is nothing nicer than going into the graden and really lookingf at it ,there always seem to be something else to fall in love with.

Incidently, does anyone know what the blue flower are and are they poisonous? Hope you had a lovely Easter .

Lemon cake

2011-04-20T16:05:00.003+01:00

It is official my needle threading days are over this baby bought at the Stitch n knitting show a few weeks back, (god, I cant even remember when it was) has come to my rescue.It is fab, all you do is place needle in hole and yarn is placed where arrows point, move the white button and hey presto needle threaded. It is such a great buy available here.

Sometimes a cake will only do, this is a recipe I forgot about but one that is an old fav, it's one of those recipes that work and it isn't a fuss, just mix and go.

125ml natural yoghurt,

200 g sugar

2 small eggs,

100g melted butter

grated rind of 1 lemon unwaxed ,

250g self raising flour

Mix the first five together and then thoroughly mix the flour. Bake ,cool I just made a runny icing that drips over the edge.This cake is so good I have baked it twice.

2011-04-15T15:38:00.003+01:00

A few days ago I turned to put a tray of chicken into the oven I suddenly felt a shooting pain.I couldn't move, after a bit it subsided but I was left with the type of pain you get when you pull a muscle. It hurts like hell. I'm on the sofa cant do very much and I feel sorry for myself.

I made his cowl in gorgeous aran weight wool that I have had for years.It is so warm and cosy.I made up the stitch it is just a one row repeat 2trtog,2ch ,2trtog and worked in the round for 15 rows. I made a crochet rose added a pin at the back to create a brooch .Cowl can be worn in so many way.I think i will make a few as gifts for xmas.

2011-04-11T10:00:00.002+01:00

Some days nothing but cake will do. I am an absolute glutton for a strawberry tart. I could not resist the tempting evil cake shop Patisserie Valerie . Not satisfied with said evil strawberry tart I also bought lemon tarts, raspberry tarts and cheesecakes.All eaten gleefully in the park with a few friends. Cake shared is a few pounds weight gain halved.

My progress with my flower shawl is very slow. I love the blog The Flower bed it is filled with lovely inspiration all using a floral motif.I drool and I ooh and aah always determined to do a few flowers a day but somehow I always find I can't be bothered.Why can't I just start and stick to one project at a time?It will be gorgeous when it is completed but somehow I know it will end its day in the ever growing "I will do that later cupboard " .Do you have one of those places? why cant we just admit we will not be finishing it sometime soon .We all know tomorrow never comes .

A few balls of crochet cotton I'm aiming to have an entire colour spectrum in crochet cotton. I love crochet cotton I dream of making any one of these, simply gorgeous don't you agree think? Sophie's work is stunning. She obviously has alot of patience.

Aside from the flower shawl I have been trying my hand at making crocodile stitch

Give it a go it is great fun..

Time flies

2011-04-07T23:23:00.002+01:00

I love cooking but sometimes it can be a drag.On those days I love simply jointing a chicken, add 6 cloves of garlic ,1 tsp rosemary, salt and pepper a good glug of olive oil, a glass or two of white wine and roast.When you are half away from really cooked chick add ,sliced onions, peppers, olives, roast until golden brown. Use whatever you have in fridge, courgettes, aubergine,mushrooms are all wonderful in this dish. I add handful of torn basil and a couple of splashes of good quality balsamic vinegar. Serve with good crusty loaf and the remainder of the white wine.

Daffodils make me feel so cheery, summer will be here pretty soon. I suddenly feel I am really getting old as now all I notice is how quickly time is flying by. My children are all grown up. My daughters first year in sixth form is almost over ,in fact once these holidays are over she starts her A level exams.Eldest daughter is frantic with dissertation and final collection due . My fingers and toes are crossed that they do well.

I needed some stitch markers , the cake ones I bought the cake bits from ebay i just added the jump ring. The other's are bits and bobs from broken jewellery, beads,.They are so easy to make all you need are the motifs (they must have a hole so you can thread the jump ring) , jump rings and lobster claws(fastener) pliers( jewellery ones).Easy and they dont cost you very much.

I follow so many blogs I scarely have time to write mine.Do you find that? The thing i love about cyber space is you never know where each click of the mouse will take you. Isn't that great fun one minute you are knee deep in a granny stripe and the next you just have to make a gorgeous useless flower, sound familiar.

2011-04-04T13:53:00.003+01:00

I was spoilt rotten yesterday.I had one of the most relaxing days ever.Breakfast in bed .A lovely roast beef ,roast potatoes, parsnip,a divine salad with a gorgeous vinaigrette., and profiteroles for dinner.It was so lovely and I felt spoilt. I love being a mum , best thing I have ever done. I'm so proud of them and I love them both ,I'm the luckiest mum in the world. Two new purchases deliciously soft and silky yarn from Sheepaints. I wish I could describe the softness of this yarn.All I have done since Ive got them is stroke them. I wound them into balls and I have started a new project. I still have plenty more projects to finish and I know I should not have started a new one,but, the yarn screamed out to me that it want to be a shawl .Does that ever happen to you? ,my yarns talks to me but dont tell my family they already think I'm bonkers they don't get why I have so much yarn

I have been asked to show a few more pictures of my granny square jacket. I love the way it has turned out.I particularly like the back I didnt want the whole jacket to be so colourful so decided on black grannies at the back with a line of colour at the hem. Very effective dont you think? I added the belt to define the waist.It is made entirely of granny squares . I didnt do a gauge swatch i just crocheted a few square with different sizes hooks until i had the perfect stitch definition I was after. My template was a coat I like the fit of. It is so easy to make.

If anyone had told me I would be making a multicoloured granny square jacket and wear it I would have said they were mad. I love wearing it.

Noro patchwork jacket

2011-03-30T01:25:00.003+01:00

Spring is here.

Remember this. I love wearing it with my boots, opaque tights,black polo neck jumper. I had quite alot of Noro in my stash and decided to make a jacket not to wear with the skirt, a whole ensemble would be a fashion crime.

I just keep making squares and used a jacket as a template et voila this cosy colourful beauty is made. I will take better pictures but I was eager to show it off. I've added a few peach buttons and it has a belt.Does anyone know how to make loops you thread a belt through so that it is always attached to the jacket.

Stitching show

2011-03-21T14:58:00.007Z

Last Friday I spent the day at the Stitch and Craft show at Olympia. I had such a lovely leisurely day.I have been coming to these shows for years, this year they put all the "yarn stuff" downstairs. It made shopping much easier and you didn't have to trawl through paper craft stuff.

I decided to walk around and see what I liked and not buy a thing until I had seen everything.Those who know me will know this was a very difficult thing to do I buy straight away without checking if someone else is selling the same stuff for less, with all the penny pinching we are doing at home it is only right I count the pennies when buying yarn ,after all we are in a recession.

Last year I was mugged at the Olympia train station.It was terrifying .I thought Id be nervous seeing as though I was going alone,but I was not although I did look around me a bit more than usual. I had a lovely day I took so many pictures will post more soon.

Inside Crochet 16

2011-03-14T10:30:00.004Z

Issue 16 of Inside Crochet is out now and I'm very lucky to have one of my designs in it. It is a scarf .Made with Noro's silk garden. It is a beautiful blend of mohair and silk. I love the range of colours in every ball ,surprising you every few rows.So harmonious.

As well as the pictured way to wear this scarf it looks fab when you wrap it round your neck twice and then fasten with brooch pin .

And we are off

2011-03-09T16:08:00.004Z

Finally, I have found the colours I like.I wanted something muted that could be worn with almost any colour.A pratical item for my wardrobe.I quite like the idea of it becoming a throw for my sofa. I love the coloured center next to the dreamy creamy aran weight, 1oo%wool from my stash (cant find label anywhere )The centers are all odds and ends from my stash.

.Really lovely motif , every flower looks so pretty.I am weaving all ends as I go ,adding further pleasure as I hate sewing ends but doing it as you go means once it is finshed it's ready to go .. I do hate sewing ends .Don't you ?

Floral love

2011-03-06T15:01:00.004Z

You must have noticed that almost everyone who crochets seems to be more than slightly enamoured with these beautiful shawls made from flowers.I made this please xcuse the fuzzy picture these motifs are made in this appropriately named "Flower " yarn from Jawoll purchased from here

These flowered motif come from this wonderful blog.

Do check out this blog it is such a wonderfully colourful blog and she kindly offers this gorgeous charted motif. I did these with leftover style craft yarn, I'm not making mine with this I just wanted to play. Im still undecided on the colour of my shawl I just know I'm making one .

I still have leftover magicline from this post . It seems I'm always cleaning.I like to clean with cotton handmade cloths, these cloths are so absorbent, strong and cleans and shines wonderfully.They wash well and with lots of things it gets better with age,I hope that means I will too!!!

If you have never used a handmade cloth please do .Use all those odds and ends you have in your stash and made a simple granny square to the size you like ,add a border for extra beauty

Happy but sad

2011-03-01T13:42:00.002Z

Happy because it is finished but sad because I did not finish it the way I had planned.I am filled with lots of uncertainty with her .I imagined her larger,doubled this size.From the last pictures all I managed to do was an extra one row across and one row down plus added a red border.I love the border it seems to make the colours much more harmonious. Not sure if I should make it a little thicker, perhaps I should wait until it has been blocked.

I love the yarn, it has such a silky soft texture love the colour ,my motif but I started to get terribly bored.Every time I started I just fell out of love with making her.His highness suggested I put it away and come back to it but I knew if I did that she would become a unfinished project that would glare at me , making me feel guilty everytime I spotted her.You know what i mean that guilt over spending a little bit too much on this project, guilt that you have bought new yarns and moved onto another baby. I was bought up as a catholic, guilt comes with the territory.

OK, I am going to stop feeling sad and just be happy that she is colourful soft and luxurious and beautiful. She is going to be my shawl I use on those chilly airplane trips and as she has a purpose I already feel better.Now, every time I see her I know we will be together on those long haul flights to sunnier climates I am smiling at the thought.Yeah, I feel better already.

Pain when I crochet

2011-02-23T22:06:00.002Z

OK, I'll admit it I have crocheted so much my fingers ache. I have bought quite a few gloves ,potions, lotions, eye of newt ,etc etc....... none have worked and I have had to rest my knackered old hands by not crocheting.I don't know why my hand cant keep up with all my mindful plans.

I've had this glove awhile and I'm pleased to say it seems to help. It has a splint that supports the thumb and padding supports the wrist .I bought it from here.

The idea of not being able to crochet really frightens me,what would I do ?, it is my life. Non crocheters will think I'm exaggerating but it is true, crochet /knitting figures so largely in my life I would be devastated.The loss would be so great.

Over the last few years I have had lots operations with plenty of recuperation.The type that means you are in bed all day, every dayfor weeks and the thing that has been my saviour has been a ball of yarn and my hooks.Literally, they saved me from depression. At the same time I found blogs and I knew I wasn't alone. Therefore my mantra is 'Im a hooker til the day I die'. I know you know what I mean.

Colour everywhere

2011-02-20T15:44:00.003Z

I'm halfway through my shawl. I love it , but if I am honest it is beginning to be a bit of a chore .I'm determined to finish.I want to to be 4 rows wider and 21 squares in length. At the moment is is 17 squares long.This is the softest yarn ever from here .

Have you ever had that moment when you are out clothes shopping and suddenly you spot the perfect yarn combination.Well, I did and just had to buy this maxi length peacock dress. I'm now on the hunt for some yarns just like this. I love the colours.I want to make a shawl in these colours,as soon as I finish current project.

A lazy leisurely Sunday underneath our blankets My granny stripe and my daughter's granny square kept us warm.I love snuggling under these because they are made by me with love , they still make me smile every time I look at them. It feels me with joy when I see my family cuddled in my blankets. Moments like this are so special .

These plastic side plates are from sainsbury's I had to have a set. I love my mug of tea and my biscuits on one of these.they look lovely stacked up don't you think?

This yarn screamed at me .I found a heart pattern on the net and an hour later a scarf was born .For the life of me I cant find it.I was so sure I added it to my favourites.It is such a easy pattern as soon as I find it I will share it.

I'm off to cook so dinner enjoy your day.

Valentine

2011-02-17T13:59:00.002Z

We have had a busy few days .We kicked off the weekend with takeaway and drinks with my lovely cousin. I think we came home at 4.oo am. sometimes it is wonderful to let your hair down and be a bit silly.

Valentines day was great. I wish I could tell you we sweep each other away to a hot destination, we just had a lovely baths with rose petal bath salts ,we shared a lovely meal (I cooked).We were in bed by 7 we put my twinkly lights on and snuggled up with a box of chocos and watched trashy tv .My kind of evening .

I have just finished tonight's supper , a mackerel dauphinose, such a simple meal. All you need are potatoes, double cream, smoked peppered mackerel fillets. Simply slice the potatoes , flake and skin the fish pour cream over toss together. Bake until soft, bubbling and golden brown, Serve with cooked green beans tossed with a little olive oil and a squeeze or two of lemon. Delicious.

Love heart vase cosy

2011-02-08T00:22:00.004Z

Valentine day is approaching. I use this opportunity to show my love to my children, my mum and friends.This cosy is made to fit small vase, you could make it to fit around a candle, mug ,glass.It could be used as a coaster, place mats , dishcloths I guess what I'm trying to say is that you can use it for just about anything you like.

By alternating the red and white yarn it seems to make the red pop out and the shell pattern resembles love hearts to me. The following pattern is for my vase,to give you some idea of size ,it will be half the size of a dishcloth.

Pattern

4mm hook

red dk cotton

white dk cotton.

Chain 32, in red yarn

Foundation row. (ws)

1dc into 2nd ch from hook *miss 2ch, 5tr into next ch, miss 2ch, 1dc into next ch, rep from * to end, turn

Join in white and work in pattern thus;

1st row;

RS using white yarn 3ch acts a tr, 2tr into dc at base of 3ch ,*miss 2tr, 1dc into next tr, miss 2tr, 5tr into next dc rep from*to last 6st, miss 2tr, 3tr into next dc, turn.

2nd row;

using red 1ch(does not count as a st), 1dc into 1st tr, *miss 2tr. 5tr into next dc, miss 2tr. 1dc into next tr, rep from * to end ,turn.

These two rows form the love heart pattern repeat them to desired length. I stopped at row 10. You will have a lovely scalloped edging.Weave in all the ends and seam together.

2011-02-06T19:28:00.004Z

I've been feeling down lately,not about anything in particular. I just seem to have a dark cloud following me around .Everything seems like such hard work.Cooking, cleaning ,working,being with people, even reading has been hard, but the one thing that helps me through is crocheting with colourful yarns, does that sound slightly batty?do you think it's the colour or is it the crocheting that alters moods? Im not sure but I am thankful that it does.

These four books I have had for years except for the crochet borders one, bought last year.I refer to these constantly.I thoroughly recommend them. "Around the corner crochet borders" and " Beyond the square crochet motifs" and The "Harmony guide to crochet stitches" are excellent books I love them because they have both the written pattern and the crochet symbol charts.If you have never used charts please do, I promise you will never want to go back to working with written ones.The symbols are universally recognised It means instead of trying to work out if a DC is in UK or US terms. The symbols clear this up instantly enabling you to have no problems with any pattern from around the world. so if you are buying crochet pattern books try and get ones with symbols you will be hooked(no pun intended).

I recently bought some thick pure wool in grey, ecru and black. The yarn is called LOPI alafosslopi made in Iceland.I bought it from Tricolette Yarn shop .I made this over the shoulder sac in one day, don't you just love a quick project?First I made a rectangular base then I crocheted around the four edges of the base placing stitch markers at the four points .I crocheted in the round, making sure to make 1tr, 2ch, 1tr in those four corners, this ensures the bag is rectangular .The two thinner parts form the handle ,one would become the flap. I did this with a large crochet hook and put it into the washing machine to felt.I wanted a dense thick fabric. I have only washed it once and I'm very happy with it. I used a belt buckle as fastener

A few years ago I made this cushion ,its made with thick parcel string. It is a little tough to work with but it is worth it .The string produces a dense, durable material. The stitch definition is beautiful . You can't really tell from the picture but it is a very large floor cushion .It has had plenty of use and still it looks as good as new. I love working with other mediums it makes crocheting exciting.I' ve worked with paper, plastic bags, wire, tights, foil, cords.I like to try with just about anything the results can be very surprising .

Friday his highness and I fancied a nighttime nibble.I made these delicious cheeesy nibbles and only remembered to take a piccie when we had only four left. They are so simple and uses only three ingredients cheese, flour, butter. they are so moreish the recipe is from the wonderfully colourful Attic24 . Enjoy we certainly did.

Im in love

2011-01-28T15:01:00.009Z

Ok, I just could not wait to show you my latest make.As you know I love granny squares.I have stopped latest project to be unfaithful with this gorgeously soft bamboo yarn.

I started last night and just kept on going.I even love the snips I have actually kept them in a glass jar at the side of my bed just so can smile as soon as I wake, I told you. I am in love!

My work basket, can you see in the box along side my pink crochet lite hook is the cutest pink scissors.My lovely flowerpot pincushion. I know I have used acrylic (granny stripe blanket, scarf )and I have said it was nice to work with, but goodness me natural fibers are so much nicer.This is one sexxxy project.

Aren't they gorgeous. I picked the colours randomly and I havnt crochet them in ay order simply grab any colour.Im thrilled it seems to work.

I have tons of bamboo tape the gold is rowans.The damson and pink are wendy's pure all discountinued .
I bought them with no idea what I would make and suddenly that "eureka" moment and it all becomes so very clear .They are perfect in this project and whilst it is a tape yarn they work without adding any bulk

My cute scissors.Have a lovely weekend.Im off to fondle and caress my yarn

Playtime

2011-01-27T13:58:00.003Z

I joined weightwatchers on Tuesday evening.I have been overindulging and have now decided to stop and do something about it .I have used weightwatchers in the past with great results.I like the fact that no food is banned, it means I can eat real food anything I fancy as long as I don't exceed my points allowance.I will post my weightloss journey

These beautiful balls of yarn are from Purlescence. I bought them at Knit nation last year.This yarn is incredibly soft, silky .I love it .It glides on the hook and it is a pleasure to work with. I dont know what I will make for now Im just playing.

Tricolette Yarns

2011-01-24T14:50:00.004Z

Just off the famous Abbey road in London a new yarn shop has opened Tricolette Yarns.I popped in on Thursday.The shop is a delightful light and very spacious place. The window display is made up of gorgeous thick bags knits that the owner has made. Lynne, the owner is extremely friendly and has a great knowledge of yarns and fibers.

The shop has a Thursday knit nite and Lynne has kindly said that we could have a crochet night at her shop.So that is a new venue for future meets.It is always lovely to have a shop as a venue as there is something so relaxing crocheting whilst being surrounded by gorgeous fibers.The shop is just 15 minutes from my house ,I'm overjoyed not sure that it is a good thing for my bank balance though.

Some of the yarns I spotted are Rowans, Noro, Rooster, Natural dye studio, Artesano, Bluefaced Leicester, Louisa Harding. The crochet hooks are Brittany, and Knitpro .Also available are some gorgeous buttons and other notions. The shop is still a work in progress and Lynne is very happy to help you with anything you need.She also plans to offer spinning lessons and the shop has a wonderful wheel. I for one will definitely be very interested in classes for this.

This shop is well worth the visit.I wish Lynne every success. I will definitely become a regular.

Crochet meet up

2011-01-21T00:36:00.002Z

A very organised crochet bag

Lucy and friend chaining away

Joanne's motif cardigan in progress

One of my new year resolutions to Reconnect with friends old and new.With that I decided to organise the first crochet meet up of the year. I run the london crochet meetup,I started the group to meet others who shared my passion for all things crochet. It has been one of the best things I have ever done. I have made some very good friends.

The evening goes by so quickly .My role is to help newbies on their way to crochetdom. It is tremendous fun.I love watching that moment it clicks and you know that they will never forget the day they where hooked.

As ever the group are so inspiring.It is wonderful to see all the fabulous work everyone was busy with .We welcomed four new members .Giselle an experienced crocheter and a wonderful knitter, who was wearing a beautiful knitted Juneberry shawl,(Jared flood)made in the very gorgeous colinette jitterbug.Giselle was making motifs for a bath mat.It is the sunny spread . I can't wait to see the finished results.Everyone knows i love making things that are made of motifs they are portable and I always get a silly sense of achievement with every completed square.

Lucy and her friend (whose name I cant remember, apologises but I did explain the reasons why I have such a terrible time with names).These two lovely ladies learnt to ch, tr ,dc I hope I haven't traumatised them.It was great fun.

Inuka joined us she has only been crocheting for a month and she is the proud owner of those adorable blue baby trainers, what is it about cute baby shoes that makes you what to make a pair immediately.

Pepi,Joanne, Betty, Joan, Angela,Belinda thank you for your continued support,I love you guys

I was surrounded by creativity Flowers,baby shoes,blankets ,scarves,bath mats,scrubbies,lots of pattern ideas. I had such a great evening I for one cannot wait for the next.I feel like the luckiest girl in the world I have a great bunch of ladies to hang out with it, we have great conversations ,lots of laughter.Thank you for such a great time.

So, if you have also decided you would like to see more of your friends go and do it, you will be so happy you did.

Busy

2011-01-18T15:48:00.003Z

I have tons of kidsilk haze and I do like the feel of this yarn, if you have never tried it I urge you to. Items made from it are very deceptive they are as light as a feather but very very warm ,it 's like having a hug it makes me feel quite contented.

My subscription to Inside crochet expired,strangely it expired on the very edition I had my pattern published.I received it on sat with two balls of Artesano alpaca in a very useful colour.His highness thinks a hat would be very nice for him,hmmmh ,dream on lover!!!

I 've been buying love, one lovely carved wooden set and two metal heart shaped love wall hangings. My house is slowly becoming a home once again.We decorated awhile back but it still needs all those finishing touches.I have been embellishing cushions and I'm busy re-covering a pouffe.I will reveal all as soon as it is finished.It really is a lovely feeling making the house become Home.

Bottle poncho/ Coasters

2011-01-13T12:42:00.008Z

I think I'm suffering from startitis, a well known disease that makes you start something and never finish them.Sound familiar. I have so many projects in progress.Lately I have found I just have to make the thing, whatever it is ,straight away.I must write my notes , I place hook and yarn in individual projects bag. It is all very organised, so that when I do pick it up I know exactly where I am .I have ten 4mm hooks and now I have to get more to cope with the amount of things I have to finish.Now, you'd think I would try and finish one project to free the crochet hook, oh, no not I, it seems I do have a really bad case of startitis.

I came up with this idea when I had arranged to meet a friend to celebrate her massive weight loss. She loves white wine. I wanted to give my friend a gift, usually I cook and bring her foodie gifts but I decided to give a practical gift.I wanted to make the bottle pretty and came up with this poncho for a bottle,Yes, I know it is a silly, whimsical gift but it does have a purpose as it doubles up as a coaster.

.I used Debbie Bliss Dk cotton a lovely shade of grey,silver I love working in cotton the stitch definition is superb.I added some gorgeous swarovski crystals o make it have a little sparkle, a little bit of bling!!

This is a very quick and easy pattern, I made this pattern up whilst watching telly.

Notions;

4mm hook

1 ball debbie bliss dk makes 4 coasters, feel free to use any yarn you like.

Picot;

3ch, slip stitch to third chain from hook.

Pattern

Ch 12, join with slip stitch.

1.1ch make 30 dc into the ring, join with a ss.

2. 3ch, counts as tr. 1tr in next 2 dc's, 3ch, *3tr in next 3 stitches ,3ch**, repeat from *to ** join with a ss in the 3ch at start of round.

3. 1ch, * miss 1tr, dc in the next dc,( 3tr, make a picot of 3 stitches, 3tr all in the next 3ch sp.)** repeat from *to ** ,join with a ss to first tr.

Fasten.

Block.

Now, embellish your poncho/coaster with whatever you like I used swarovski crystal handsewn onto every picot.You can use beads , buttons, sequins or leave it alone.

Put it round the bottle neck, give as a gift and then use it as a coaster for that lovely bottle.!!!!!

I hope you enjoy this pattern.

If you spot any mistakes, or need help please contact me.

Inside Crochet

2011-01-11T02:25:00.002Z

Issue 14 of Inside Crochet is out now and I have a design in it and it is on the front cover, (Im jumping up and down). I cant tell you how wonderful it feels.

Almost at the finish line

2011-01-06T15:09:00.003Z

Remember these

I added a black border

Loads of crochet squares later

My nearly completed skirt.I'm so excited that i really could not wait to show you my progress, it's so lovely. I will post a patterns as soon as I have finished it , I can not wait to wear it with black polo neck ,opaque tights ,boots.

Re-connect

2011-01-03T15:21:00.001Z

color
Originally uploaded by lakbdesign/fergusandme.

New Year came in with no bang for us.No wild parties in fact I was tucked up in bed and I was very happy to be.The young ladies went out to celebrate with friends.His Highness and I were just happy to be.

With the arrival of the new year you cant help thinking about the goals for the year.
I have decided that I need to RECONNECT

RECONNECT:

1.With friends old and new, those in blogland and real time.
2.With my body , it really needs some TLC.
3.With my family, those near and far
4.With my creativity.
5.With myself as a woman, not just a mum and a wife.
6.With nature and beauty, even in a busy city.
7.with my plans and goals for a craft based career

.
And finally I want my yarn cupboard to look more like this gorgeous colour coordinated crochery filled one.Yummmmmmmy.Now what about you???

Beautiful Ethereal Snow

2010-12-20T14:33:00.004Z

Harrods always looks so beautiful at Xmas.

Saturday the weather was unbelievable. The snow came down. I am a real baby ,I donned on my boots and we set off to get some pictures.Aren't they pretty? Whilst it all looked stunning the roads were not to be messed with.Cars were sliding over the slippery slooshy roads. We just had two local places to go and it took over six hours for what would normally take one hour max
just because the roads were so bad. I still am always amazed at how much London cant cope with a bit of snow.We talk about snow every year ,we all know way ahead when the snow will fall and still we cant seem to get grit on the roads, and get a few snow ploughs.If Russia can get on with it and they have terrible conditions them why cant we?

Christmas is really coming

2010-12-15T14:16:00.003Z

With Christmas hot on my heels ,I am in a bit of a panic. So what does a girl do?????? Well, she buys wool of course.I am allowed it is the only way I can cope with trying to get all those bits to come together before it's D Day. I know we will but it doesn't feel like it.

Saturday just gone, I somehow found myself at the IKnit london shop .I have been making granny style slippers (see pic above) for my family and friends.We all have wooden floors in our homes and giving these slipper socks without a bit of liquid latex ,would be like giving everyone an evening invitation at A&E.

So, with liquid latex in hand, you can't just walk out of a yarn shop can you? well, can you??????? So a copy of interweave knits , Designer Knitting mags and a ball of opal and a few balls of Noro later, Mr and I spent a very boozy evening with my cousin with not much crocheting , I,m not stupid Jack Daniels me and a crochet hook are not a pretty sight.

Crochet necklace

2010-12-01T00:57:00.003Z

I love blogland , you never know what you 'll find .I happened upon a blog that has a lovely tutorial for a beaded necklace Got my beads and other equipment and this is the finished product. Do you like it?? make one soon it would make a wonderful unique handmade gift for someone you love Link

I have won!!!

2010-11-26T16:03:00.002Z

I have been smiling all day .I entered a give way on a blog and Ive won .Today the package arrived. Within the package lots of handmade motifs, three magazines and the best bit a delightful white doilly. Isn't it all so very gorgeous? Do check out Lia's blog she is a super crocheter and she makes such beautiful things. Thank you so much Lia, you are wonderful and you have brightened up my day.

Granny squares

2010-11-23T00:10:00.002Z

I have lots of the Stylecraft leftover from the monster granny stripe blanket that needed to be used so I have started a granny square blanket for my mum. Making squares is such a convenient quick and easy way to work., every square requires very little time ,before you know it you've made ten or so . Perfect for those moments we just have spare during our hectic lives.I really enjoy it. I love these cheerful colours.

I have the latest interweave crochet sitting on my bedside table just begging to be read. For me there a few greater pleasures then lying in bed in the early hours of the morning reading all my crochet magazines.

Hexie love

2010-11-15T11:22:00.004Z

I am on a mission to use all my odds and ends of yarn.All those bits you can't bear to throw away .Some of the scraps have been in the 'box' for years.So Im using them to make useful accessories for the family. I had alot of leftovers from my granny stripe blanket.

I love flickr and one of my favourite groups is the 'Hexagon Love'. I can sit all day long drooling over the wonderful designs. I decided I wanted a bright and warm scarf made with hexagon motifs.

This is scarcely a pattern. Use whatever yarn and whatever size hook you like. It is a great stashbuster.I used a 4mm hook and made 15 hexagons, 4 rounds. The 4th round is the border that joins them together. You can add more or less motifs, just suit yourself.

This is a random colour choice ,I just picked up whatever yarn came out. The colours work together beautifully.The cream edging makes the colours 'pop.

All this colour lifts my spirit and makes me smile,beautiful happy colours wrapped around my neck.

Bad girl

2010-11-04T13:06:00.003Z

OK, so I have broken my yarn diet.In my defense they were reduced so that is not really buying ,it's a bargain, bargains don't count, do they? I have my dearest friend over from Saudi Arabia she has come back to do her masters. It was her birthday yesterday, I didn't have a moment to myself. Busy from morning right up until 4am this morn.

Aside from life getting in the way I have managed to make her one of these beauties(you cant tell but I have actually made two, one for her and one for meeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!. The yarn used is from Rico designs, called Creative poems aran. The pattern I used is one that is all over the web .I found this tutorial, translation not very clear but the pictures are excellent. Ive made these in the past I think i am addicted. Each scarf uses two balls of yarn with a 6mm hook.

The top picture shows two finished scarves in two different colourways .I cant tell you the colours as the numbers are badly printed on the ball band. Typical. the one time Ive actually remembered to keep ball band .

Oh, by the way I am officially on a yarn diet (again)

Braids and cords

2010-11-02T11:16:00.002Z

I'm an insomniac ,any one who suffers knows it really is pointless trying to sleep.So, five a.m I decided to play with my cord maker. Its very simple and produces very great results. I started getting very excited thinking about all those oddballs of yarn I have that could make beautiful trimmings for all sorts of stuff. I bought the braider, from a fabulous lady at Alexander palace.

It makes you feel like a child make scooby'doo and friendship bracelets at school in the playground, i urge you to give it a go you don't have to buy anything simply use a piece of card and go to utube you might find you've forgotten to make dinner, or is that just me.

Updating

2010-10-27T16:09:00.002+01:00

I have been making lots of flowers to try and add some colour and beauty into my existing crochet. The scarf I made last year in a gorgeous yarn from Crystal Palace Yarns Kid Merino needed a fastener. Don't you just love that you crochet and you can make some within minutes? I used some scrap yarn I made up the pattern , added a brooch back and I have an updated look all for a few pence.

I have also been crocheting around pieces of jewellery ,I think I will use another colour whatever I decide I will post piccies as soon as i finish.

Flu

2010-10-20T11:38:00.003+01:00

I have the Flu, it's nasty I'm struggling to do my daily chores, even having shower requires lots of energy. A tiny little bug has invaded my system and it feels as though I'm under attack from a large battalion . But, I will not be beaten. I'm still grannying,(is that even a word) I think I am addicted to making them.This latest batch in Noro silk garden. This yarn isn't the softest of yarns I hope once it is washed and blocked it will feel alot nicer.

I have been crocheting like a wild banshee. Every since kidsilk haze has been around I fell in love with this gorgeous fiber. I managed to get some swarkoski crystals that i have been adding evry 14 sts ,you cant actually see them in the picture but Ive added 3 packs so far and I've used a skein and a half of yarn. They look amazing.

At the stitching show Ally pally I feel in love with a ball of merino yarn that had swarkoski crystals and some sequins sewn onto them. It cost £38.00.I thanked them kindly and made a vow to make my own.Ive not used sequins and Ive used kidsilk haze and i have the most ethereal shawl possible.It's light and soft and it feels like a cloud.Its glistens and ctaches the light beautifully.I can't wait to finish and post pictures.I love it when I can create my own for so much cheaper .I love a bargain.I cant get a good picture to show the crystals in situ.

In case you have the flu save money but making your own lemsip.Use paracetamol crushed in a pestle and mortar add a spoonful of manuka honey and the juice of half a lemon add a drop or two of warm water, mix and drink. Get your favourite blanket, laptop, crochet projects and enjoy.

Crochet lamp

2010-10-16T18:08:00.003+01:00

I'm sure I have mentioned we have been decorating our lounge. It is full of beige, cream, chrome and white. Its cool and very relaxing. I made this lampshade myself .I love dollies not in the way my mum did.Growing up mum had dollies everywhere. I vowed I would never have any around my home. I think I'm turning in to my mum. I made this dollie years ago put it away with the intention of giving it to mum. We all the cleaning ,reclycling I found it again and decided to add it to my lamp from Habitat. I think it looks special and it has made this lamp into something special.I love winter, I adore putting layers of wool around me. As I wear mainly black Ive decided to make a mad skirt in noro worn with black polo neck. I will post as it progress.

Play time

2010-10-14T13:22:00.000+01:00

Ive got lots of those multi coloured skeins of yarn i really do enjoy messing around just to see the range of colours. Nothing seems to excite me more that watching the changes. Cant for the life of me remember what the yarn is called. How does that happen, you go to all the trouble of searching high and low for a bargain ,you get them home ,stuff them in the yarn cupboard ,forget about them and you cant find the label.

Alexander Palace

2010-10-11T13:48:00.007+01:00

Last Friday Nez and I attended The knitting and stitch show at the world famous Alexander Palace .I belive it is uk's largest craft event. We have been going for years, except last year I was too ill to go.So, I was eager to go .

As ever we had a wonderful time, I love shopping for yarn, This is just some of my haul. Im going to make a New year's resolution that I will take pictures of every skein of year I buy and add it to my ravelry stash along with the details of where I bought it. Im losing track of it all.

On crochet front Im stil busy with another granny stripe in the same colours for me mum's xmas pressie.Im in the process of adding a pattern to ravelry for a crocheted coat I made , for my daughter she wore it to sixth form today.I guess that means she likes.

2010-10-05T00:37:00.002+01:00

Ive been shopping again some new double ended crochet hooks from the Knitpro range. Not sure what they are like to work with. I will post results .

Seven pink knitting needles also fell into my shopping cart .I now have the wooden painted one's, a set of the metal both of which are in the binder which was a gift from my cousin when she went on holiday to the States, a set of the brightly coloured ones and the new pink ones.I love these babies.

On the crochet front just playing with beads trying my hand to make a necklace. I went shopping at the weekend and spotted a similar necklace for £24.99. Made mine for under 3 pounds as the yarn was a sale purchase and I have heaps of beads. I must say I do feel great making something that saves money.
That leaves more money for yarn don't you agree?

Dish cloth pattern

2010-09-25T23:22:00.005+01:00

I May have Mentioned That I am a book lover . I can not help popping everytime into a bookshop . I can Spent hours browsing eBay books sale . These are two of my latest additions , Both are very informative and makes for great reading . Ive Also bought the latest Nigella Lawson Treats. A tome , written in her wonderful style.I recommend it.

On the crochet front I 've been making dishcloths , I do not know about you but I can never have too many dishcloths . We are decorating at the moment . Once you pack things away to decorate you Suddenly realize That you have been living in a lot of chaos . I suppose it's a case of you just get use to it. However , familiarity breeds contempt and I need it changed so with that i need lots of cleaning cloths .

Dish cloth pattern

This is a simple and very pretty pattern .

5MM HOOK

Dk cotton

All terms are uk

Ch whatever size you like just make them. multiples of 4 +1

Row 1 , 2TR , 2CH, 2TR , in the 5ch from hook , miss 3ch * ( 2TR , 2ch , 2TR ) in next ch , miss 3ch ** rep from * to last 2ch , skip 1ch , 1TR in last ch , turn.

Row 2 , 3ch , skip first 3TR , * 2TR , 1ch , 2TR , in first ch sp , skip next 4TR , rep from * ending skip last 2TR , 1TR in next ch , turn.

repeat row 2 to required length .

weave in end .

enjoy .

Yarn

2010-09-22T23:07:00.003+01:00

I have been playing with seed beads and jewellery wire. I threaded a lot of beads in to the wire. The usual chain stitch then treble in every chain. I moved the bead up to the hook and crochet
around the bead. It isn't complicated and once you get the hand of it , it works up very quickly The colour of the beads matches the zauberball perfectly, however I want to make something for his highness.

A couple of lace weight mohairs. Im not looking forward to winding this into a ball.

Vinni's colour from here beautiful to work with,however, not sure what I will make with them. The yarn will find a pattern that suits it. I actually believe that yarn has magic powers once it sees a pattern it knows that it is the one. Think I'm mad do you? Doesnt your yarn talk to you, it makes you stroke, fondle, squish. it makes you spend outrageous amount. only for it to remain in a cupboard., Dont you wake up and just have to find that ball of yarn ,see it does have magic powers.

All in a week or two

2010-09-17T13:56:00.001+01:00

It seems like forever since I have blogged .Time seems to be flying by. Last week Friday was the

Iknit London weekender. It was two days filled with workshops and a fabulous area to spend spend spend. Oh my gosh ,I really am a yarn lover and strangely a pom pom maker gadget lover.I think I'm ill I bought far too much and apart from a few bits I have no idea what I'm going to make .

I have not taken pictures of all my yarn as i am a little ashamed. I simply have too much. There, I've admitted it I HAVE TOO MUCH YARN!!!!!.His highness thinks my yarn stash is out of control, so to spare myself all that explaining about why I just had to have those wonderfully different fiber yarns from Habu textiles and yard upon yard of kid mohair.They are stunning and I've cast on already I'm making this .It's a item I'll try to make during those periods I need to knit. I always prefer to crochet but sometimes I just have to use my knit pro needles, I will chart progress as and when.

On the crochet front those brightly coloured grannies are all over my home I'm sewing in ends and will reveal shortly. I have been winter cleaning. Sorting, recyling,throwing and shredding every thing i can find and boy do i have stuff .Incidentally,Ive found gas bills from 2007, what on earth am i doing keeping letters that old. Enjoy your weekend

2010-09-09T12:23:00.002+01:00

The evening's feel a little colder .I suffer with really cold feet. Every winter i swear I'm going to make lots of crochet slippers and sockettes all for snuggling up on the sofa . So, Ive started early. I made these up and will post free pattern shortly.

Is it just me but doesnt time fly. On tuesday my youngest started sixth form. I found myself saying how big she is, how I remember her first day at school , her first day at 'big school', all that recollecting makes you feel old.

She replied 'but you are old mummy, no one crochet blankets and makes slippers except for old people!

2010-09-02T13:49:00.001+01:00

A while back I started this shawl . The pattern is so beautiful but uses alot of the yarn I had chosen. I wanted a one skein pattern. I think I did one pattern repeat then decided to do a traditional granny style shawl .I'm not quite sure i like it . I think it would look nicer if the lace was at the edge . At the moment once the shawl is worn the real beauty of the lacework is hidden .I think I,m going to rip it and try it again with amendments.

I've had a lovely few days away recharging my batteries with my mum and brother.A few days of R&R ,eating , the odd tipple and lots and lots of chatter.It was such a pleasure, none of the stress of everyday life, thank goodness for breaks.

Granny Stripe Note book holder

2010-08-18T14:25:00.002+01:00

Cute teapot dont you think?

I'm still granny stripe mad. I plan on doing a few adult education classes in September a folder is a must have for all those handouts and note pads.I love the colours in the stripe and decided to make a notebook holder, wait for it I've lined it .Now, anyone who knows me is aware of how much I hate hand sewing.But needs must and it didn't take very long.

I used an A4 folder has my guide for the length I needed to ch plus a few more chs for seam allowance. Then it's just a case of doing the granny stripe. I used the pattern from Attic 24. It's so easy,fast and fun.

I striped two and a half times the length of the unfolded folder. Bind off. Weave in all ends. I then cut some thick cupboard cut to the size of the granny stripe folder. This is to add structure .Place the card on the wrong side of stripe then add the lining on top and sew all four sides .You then fold and sew two side seams making sure to leave enough at the top for flap.

That' s it . I didn't want to add buttonholes and decided to use shawl pin as a fastener. I love it .The colours just make me smile.

The British museum

2010-08-13T16:31:00.001+01:00

His highness and i spent the day round the British museum. It's such a wonderful day out I must read a little more history I often feel so stupid when faced with exhibits I know nothing about. My daughter is going to study A level history so perhaps I could study alongside her.

Can you see those grapes I took a photo when we were parking the car in greenwich .Someones garden had bunches of grapes cascading over the brick wall. I couldnt contain my excitement. Ive never seen grapes in london before the garden was such a small space, it seems you dont need alot of space to grow your own. I dream about growing my own, dont you

Playtime

2010-08-07T01:21:00.001+01:00

I have been dabbling with photos trying my hand to collage

Knit Nation

2010-08-05T12:44:00.002+01:00

Im not saying a word

The colourful Wolmeise stall, so pretty

Last Friday Nez and I hotfooted it down to the event of the year Knit Nation. A long weekend filled with workshops, shopping ,parties and lots of fun. It was held at Imperial College London, a wonderful place.

I didn't do any of the workshops Nez is the greatest teacher in the world and my personal encyclopedia,.She knows everything about knitting ,crochet,beading patchwork jewllerymaking, macrame the list is endless.

We as ever went for the shopping and boy did we shop. First impressions of the market place was that it is small. However, we managed to shop for 5hours. There was an absolutely fabulous range of things to delight everyone. We had a ball.

I still manage to amaze myself . Years ago I purchased a set of Denise knitting needles, I'd always wanted to have a set of interchangeable. When I started to use them I hated them. The way they felt in my hand was not pleasant yucky plastic needles so with that they have sat languishing at the bottom of my needle box. I had always decided I was going to sell them. I now use The knitpro and have wooden set, metal set and the brightly coloured acrylic set all of which I love.

Nez was on the lookout for the Denise crochet hooks. I said i hated the needles that I'd have to be mad to get the crochet hooks. Two lovely ladies selling Denise had lots of example of their work all made with the Denise.It was quite simply, stunning work, beautiful . You could try before you buy. I still cant believe this but I liked them .Aside from the fact that I liked them ,the ladies said that the needles and crochet hook wires are interchangeable suddenly I knew I'd be able to use the knitting sets cords . You know the rest they came home with me. The moral of this story is try before you make a decision ,you might be surprised.

I didn't take alot of picture but you can see others pictures over on flickr.It was a lovely day nice and warm and filled with woolly pursuits.

Rainbow pillow cases

2010-07-27T12:31:00.002+01:00

I'm sure you 've noticed I'm knee deep in colour .I made my monster blanket and decided I need to make some coordinating pillows ,aren't they sweet? Have you noticed my buttons? I adore them. Late last night I finished the pillows and woke up his highness to share in my achievement. I won't tell you what he said,silly of me to think he'd be interested at 3.46 am.

This morning I couldn't wait to take some pics and share them with you . I got the thumbs up from my youngest who is brutally honest and she wants one,hooray more yarn. I feel as though the real me, the barefoot contessa has been set free. Colour is making me so happy , give it a go.

Granny stripe completed

2010-07-19T13:15:00.003+01:00

This is my latest purchase. I love Edie Eckmans books they are very clear and have schematics as well as written instructions.If you only buy one book for the year this is a definite must have. Most of the time we are so absorbed in making something that often we neglect the borders yet we all know how important the finishing is. This book is 10/10.

Latest yarn anchor magicline bought at a car boot sale priced 20p per ball. I'm still smiling what a bargain. Not sure what to do with them so for now I'm just contented admiring them.

Now, for my ta-dah moment my granny stripe blanket is complete. You can't tell from this photo but our bed is a super king sized bed .It's one of those remote control beds that lets you adjust head and foot position .It also massages you. Its the roll royce of beds and it is very big. I will have to take more pictures to show you just how big my blanket is. I love it so much . Using the stylecraft yarn has been a very pleasant experience, the colour choice is magnificent. Im off to order another batch.

Rainbow Bedsocks

2010-07-12T16:18:00.002+01:00

I suffer with really cold feet, I always have slippersocks on . I made a whole pile of these small 2 row granny squares played around with the construction of a bed sock and came up with this. I will post a pattern as soon as I can.

Now, admitedly they are not the softest socks I've made but they are warm and comfy more importantly they can go in the washing machine, I hate hand washing so this is a very practical use of all those odds and ends you have hidden around the house( or is that just me?).

Enjoy the rest of your day

Jawoll magic and Jerk pork

2010-07-09T14:38:00.004+01:00

We love food and travel the length and breath of Britain in our pursuit for the best. We love spicy food and adore jerk chicken . This isn't a difficult dish to prepare , there are so many jar pastes in the supermarket but for an authentic taste you do need to do this on a barbeque.

So far, we have have two favorite jerk shops one does outstanding jerk chicken the other does the most amazing jerk pork. The pictured shop is the pork specialist and it's in Thornton heath .I had the pork with hard dough bread and salad. It's a taste sensation.

On the crochet front, my latest edition of interweave came through the post. I fell in love with the shawl on the cover. I recently bought a skein of Lang Jawoll magic from Iknit, beautiful autumnal tones. I did a full pattern rep and then decided I didn't want a my shawl to be made in this complete pattern and I'm now improvising.I'm pleased so far and will post results asap.

Hope you have a great weekend it promises to be a scorcher

Inspiration Friday

2010-07-02T12:15:00.001+01:00

Inspiration Friday
Originally uploaded by heldasland.

1. granny ripple, 2. cupcakes, 3. babukatorium2023, 4. Granny Afghan Edging, 5. stool cover detail, 6. Mystery Motif Pillow, 7. Hair Clasp with the Crochet Flower, 8. Mosaic Monday: Yarn Cookies, 9. ♥ colors

YArn snob???????????

2010-07-01T13:25:00.005+01:00

few latest reads.

If you had asked me a few weeks ago whether I was a yarn snob I would have said yes. About 21 years ago I was a student with a child and very broke.I bought a knitting machine with it came a large box of acrylic cones of yarn. I was so proud and couldn't believe that with one cone of yarn 500g i could make my daughter jumpers, scarves all at a fraction of the cost of shop bought. However, I hated the texture, it had a very unmistakable squeak and lacked that squeezable, snugable ,soft and warmness you get from some natural fibers.Once you've knitted with cashmere and angora ,wool ,silk there is no going back.But, it is pricey.

With all the economic uncertainty,I dont want to spend £150 to make a lapghan. I wanted to inject colour into my home but dont want the hefty price tag that natural fibres would incur.

Help was found on flickr .The inspiration and the gorgeous results others where getting from using the dreaded stuff are amazing.I had no other choice I bought ACRYLIC.It seems a popular choice is the stylecraft special dk. The price is outstanding , ranging from 99p to 2.00 now that's cheap. And if i didnt like the results it would not hurt to donate the lot to the charity shops.

I am so pleased with the result and very very surprised, no, it is not as luxurious as natural fibers but it is warm, cosy and the colours make me feel so very happy. Being happy is very important to me I love experimenting Ive been busy granny rippling, hexagon making , mini granny squares.It is all such great fun and I love it. It has been a lovely tonic.

I still love using natural fibersand will continue to sleep with luxury end colour charts but I now no longer close my eyes or cringe at the thought of acrylic.The advancements in textiles making has obviously changed and I for one am very happy,£22.00 on a kingsized blanket now that's value for money and a very small price for happiness.

circles in squares

2010-06-27T20:18:00.001+01:00

DSCF4678
Originally uploaded by heldasland.

Granny squares everywhere. Using the Attic24 pattern for her delightful summer garden granny.I created a washcloth and added a few oodies for my daughter as a gift for her on her travels.the washcloth is made using four squares sew together made wih the delicious Debbie bliss cottonDk. I hope she enjoys.
http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/summer-garden-granny-square.html

Food and Yarn

2010-06-23T19:11:00.002+01:00

Popped out yesterday to The market hall in Kensington. I love this place .I enjoy walking around and deciding whilst there what's on the menu for our dinner .These gorgeous tomatoes, a loaf of sourdough and some crab, prawns and fresh lemons some lovely olives.Thats dinner is was food heaven.

My latest yarn purchase some cotton from first4yarns .It's very cheap .I have not made anything yet ,the colours are so pretty all bagged together I can't bear to open it I'm just happy to look at it.I bought some peaches and creme from them in the past ,also very economical I just made some dishcloths .They are the strongest dishcloths .Everytime I wash them they become softer .Once you've used a handmade cotton dishcloth you never want to use anything else.

Granny stripe

2010-06-21T19:18:00.002+01:00

I've been playing with colour after spending far too many hours on flickr. It's a wonderful place to be so very inspirational .It is now official, I'm colour crazy. I'm enjoying myself enormously . Everything I look at seems to be filled with colour. I cant stop taking pictures, and buying yarn. I'm now in search of those vacuum sacs as I'm nearly out of storage. Help !!!!!! Yarn overload.

Pound cake

2010-06-15T18:03:00.004+01:00

My daughter is now in America and we miss her.She has only gone for a two week break but I cant help missing her. Last night she asked me for my list .Aside from the rather large list of yarn We looked through cookbooks for spices I fancy. I know you can get pretty much everything over here but it is still lovely to get spices from the actually homeland. As soon as they arrive i will share them with you.I'm so excited.

I bought this cookbook when Borders closed down it was only £3.It has some very tasty soul food recipes. I decided to make 'Pound cake'. Very simple recipe called pound cake as the original recipe contained a pound each of flour, sugar, butter and eggs which will result in a very rich and buttery cake.The recipe calls for caster sugar I like to use unrefined sugars substituted light muscovado sugar for a caramel,toffeeish flavour.

Cake is delicious I added more flavourings, grating of nutmeg and 1tsp more vanilla extract. Once cooled it has a lovely soft texture, buttery and full of flavour.I thoroughly recommend it with a pot of tea.

Elephants everywhere

2010-06-11T17:28:00.002+01:00

Today was such a lovely day, I met my friend Angela for some lunch. As well as having her lovely company all afternoon she came bearing gifts some beautiful crochet pattern books from Italy. Complete with all the crochet symbols.Thank you so much Angela

I'm probably the last person in London to blog about the elephant parade. Ive envied everyone who has seen them.Finally,I had the perfect opportunity .These two babies are on Regents street.

A little further along Regents Street a gallery has opened where you can buy these beautifully painted mini elephants.It explains what the parade is all about and all the proceeds go to a good cause.For more info see here. Aren't they just the cutest things?? I have to say that whilst inside I felt I'd entered a yarn shop filled with beautiful rare hand painted skeins of yarn.

I'm now happily sitting on the sofa with a rather large Jack on the rocks and a smirk.I've had a lovely day with Angela, we found quite a few interesting Japanese shops filled with interesting foodie bits. Lovely lunch, great company lovely weather what more could a girl want for a Friday? Once again Angela ,thank you for a lovely day.

Colour everywhere

2010-06-08T13:28:00.002+01:00

The bag with blue handles came free in the June edition of easy living.Ive never bought this mag before but I'm a sucker for a free shopping bag.The other two are gifts from my eldest and they are used for yarn. It thrills me to look at the flowers and them look inside it it houses balls and balls of yarn. All yarn has a good home in my house.

Colour everywhere, The mad fabric in the background is my latest quilt cover is one made byFenn wright mason bargain from TKMaxx.I told you colour is every where.

This sis my latest buy.i know it looks like a paint colour chart.It's actual a poster called 'Christmas by Colour' a collabourative exploration into colours that shape our Christmas. Every colour has one word that decsribes the colour. Its very clever you can find out more here

The granny square blanket is one I made years ago hence the yarn looking a bit worst for wear but the blanket is so soft and comforting.

Lonely

2010-06-03T12:11:00.003+01:00

Ive been feeling very useless lately. My youngest is knee high in revision .She has already had her first gcse .My eldest is off to Florida next week with girlfriends .Where on earth does time get too? One moment I cant ever imagine what it would be like to sleep for more than four hours and suddenly you cant sleep because they are coming home late and you cant stop worrying. The girls are all grown up I'm extremely proud of them but it has now left me with the what shall i do now??????

Guess pictures say it all I baked foccacio with Gorgonzola and walnuts .served with lightly grilled fish and a fresh salad, and a gorgeous Victoria sponge. I bought some new colourful knitting needles and played with my ever ready friends my crochet hook and yarn. Still bored and useless? Certainly not!!!!!

Beautiful yarn

2010-05-26T12:04:00.003+01:00

This gorgeous bit of yarn porn is incredibly soft and so luxurious. You can purchase it from here.

I lurvvvvvvve working with yarn , Ive played around with quite a few. in my time!!!Ive stroked so many.I love most of my stash for different reason. Sometimes you love a yarn for it's colour or it could be the way a stitch looks in that yarn. Softness, warmth, squeezability,smell.I love to try all sorts . I love it just because it's yarn.But , everyonce in a while you come across a yarn that ticks all the right boxes. This yarn is one of those yarns. It is delicious.

The pattern is the same as my purple haze shawl I promise once Ive found the pattern i will post details.This shawl is for my daughter, she loves green.I added a darker stripe ,it too is green not brown as in photo. We all have long hair at home more than not tied up . There are so many patterns for crocheted flowers on the net I just picked one made this hairband with just 15g of yarn. A perfect practical gift along with her new Iphone.

Pincushion

2010-05-19T14:42:00.003+01:00

This is my latest design, it's a pin cushion it's crocheted and very easy to make .I am going to write the pattern as soon as I have time. The yarn used is zauberball .What a delight it is to just to look at .Totally crazy yet harmonious.I love this so much its very useful especially as I have so many projects that need to be blocked.

Footies

2010-05-12T16:44:00.002+01:00

This is a very simple pattern for the cutest slippers.I always have a pair in my hand bag for those occasions you visit someone' s home and you have to take your shoes off. They are straightforward to adapt to any foot size.

As cotton has an inclination to become stretchy I recommend you make it smaller than actual foot . Eg; My foot length 24 rows yet I made 20 rows to ensure a really snug fit. Measure as you go to ensure a perfect fit.

Yarn is held doubled throughout.

I have added ribbon to make them resemble ballet pumps.

Crochet hook; 6mm.

Yarn; Anchor magicline, use any worsed cotton you have around

Ch 24

1. 1 ch , dc in every ch to end, 1h turn.

2. dc in the back loop only to end, 1ch, turn.

3. Rep row 2 until you reach the required length of you foot for me that was 24 rows, (see note above)

4. fold the sock in half and sew the back seam

5. Work from the inside do a running stitch from the toe to the place you want it to end .Mine was 3.5inches it's at this point you must tighten the running stitch.This will make it resemble a footwear . It should be round at the top. If some parts have more ruching play with it until it is even.

Secure the tension and weave the end.

Ive added some ribbon this is attached by simply doubling the length you like to tie around the ankle .I just knotted the ribbon to the slipper.

Embellish with buttons, sequins, crochet flowers

Busy

2010-05-10T12:37:00.003+01:00

I've been very busy crocheting there doesn't seem to be a time when I'm not working on my projects. It's been great fun. I have a lot of books I can't help myself, I have made a resolution to not buy for a while , instead I will use the books I already have to inspire me. These are the latest and both books I thoroughly recommend.

My babette is complete. Ive blocked it and it looks amazing even if I say so myself. I made it with regia sock yarn the range that Kaffe fassett designed all in one colourway.It feels so very soft and look stunning The only downside to that is I wish Id made it double the size. I used 9 skeins really hated the weaving in the ends .My Babette is different as I used used a traditional granny square . For more inspiration check out flickr, be warned you will want to make one of these babies.

I'm still smitten with the queen anne scarves, cant seem to stop making them its highly addictive .They looks so beautiful. The louisa harding has lovely sequins running through the yarn which adds a lovely sparkly quality.I think Im going to make one in every colour.

List of vegetables for dyeing

2010-05-03T15:11:00.001+01:00

I learnt how to dye yarn recently and I'm hooked. I have so many skeins of yarn that need 'colour therapy' . I have been looking a bit more into this dyeing business, I found a list of vegetables with the possible colors one can get from them. Its wonderful being able to use stuff in the larder and fridge.No food stuff will be safe. I'm off to experiment!!!

So here:
Light Purple: small quantity of grape juice
Violet blue: red onions skins
Blue: Canned blueberries, red cabage, purple grape juice
Green: spinach, grass
Yellow: orange or lemon peels, carrot tops, ground cumin, ground tumeric
Brown: strong coffee
Orange: yellow onion skins
Pink: beets, cranberries
Red: lots of red onions skins
And then I found another list of possible dyers .

Marigold flowers
Tansy flowers
Dahlia flowers
Walnuts
Apple leaves
Oak leaves
Crushed pomegranates
Onion skins
Corn husks
Walnuts

Shawl

2010-04-27T10:41:00.003+01:00

I made this shawl with the delightful Regia yarn, I believe its the range that Kaffe Fassett designed,now he's a man that knows how to match colours .I know its wool and generally I prefer to work with lighter fibers but it feels so soft and crochets so smoothly.The little rosette is not only a decoration it can be used to fasten the ends together. It can be worn as a neckerchief, standard shawl or just thrown casually over your shoulders, perfect for those really chilly evenings.

Leisurely Sunday

2010-04-19T12:14:00.004+01:00

The girls were busy this weekend so his highness and I decided to have a drive and see where we ended up. Ever since I've been carrying a camera I'm always amazed at how much artwork is around London. These gorgeous mosaics are tucked under a bridge Park place its called between Waterloo and vauxhall . A really dreary bridge transformed by them.

Whilst taking these pictures a man walked passed me and he looked slightly puzzled at me .I could tell he had no idea why I would be taking pics under the bridge .

My pictures don't convey the way the tiles shimmer ,almost ethereal they are so beautiful . I love that we can just wonder across free artwork .I love living in London. We ended our day at Battersea park enjoying a few tapas .The perfect end to a great day.

2010-04-13T12:02:00.003+01:00

Just a few ebay buys

The weather last weekend was so lovely and for once it didn't start raining as soon as I left the house. If I picked a destination that had no rain for years ,my arrival would be noted as the wettest in history. So, it was so nice to be out and about enjoying the sun.

Summertime,(yes, I know it's not yet but a woman can dream, cant she? ) means I love using lighter yarns. I love lace weight yarns bamboo, cotton, linens ,yarns that breathe.Yarns that drape so elegantly. they feel so light. You can't help being seduced by the juicy, fruity colours that are available. I have been very busy.

This pattern has been in my to do box forever ,it has been all over the web I think it is called Queen Anne's Lace scarf there are no photos on the blog just the pattern, but over on ravelry so many people have made it.I think it's the same there are various style all equally gorgeous.