DaisyHead Creations

It's a Giveaway! Win a Pattern or a Custom Item!

2012-01-30T18:32:00.002-05:00

It's been awfully quiet here at the DHC blog. I have been super busy the last 2 weeks building a new website for my mothering and homeschooling blog, the daisyhead. Yesterday the new site opened!

In celebration of my new home on the web, I am having a Housewarming Party! And I will have several giveaways over the next 2 weeks!

The first giveaway is open right now~ over at the daisyhead. There will be 6 winners in all.

5 winners will get the DaisyHead Creations pattern of their choice!

1 Grand Prize winner will get a custom hat!

You choose the style and the color-- including one of my handdyed yarns. You also choose the size~ it can be for your baby or child, for your man, or for YOU.

I hope you'll hop over to the Housewarming Party and enter. Then I hope you'll share it with your friends!

And by all means, come back in a day or two for the next giveaway!

photo credit

Of Cardis and Owls

2012-01-10T13:31:00.000-05:00

A few months ago, my littlest daughter, Teeny, informed me that she had grown out of her "Skittles Hat" and needed a new one. Her Skittles hat is the original Baby Gretel hat. It was knitted with the yarn that my oldest son dubbed "Skittles" because it looked like a bunch of Skittles candies.

Teeny loved that hat! So I felt I must dye more Skittles yarn to knit her a larger version of her beloved hat. Before long, she decided that she would also need a cardigan from the same yarn~ to match the hat.

She got her hat at Christmas. She was sooo happy! Since the New Year, I have started working on her Skittles cardi. She is thrilled watching her cardigan take shape! It's a simple top-down raglan cardigan. Last night, I started the ruffle that will adorn the hemline of her little cardigan. I can't wait to see her face when she realizes that it will have a ruffle!

I also have a crochet project in the works. In fact, it should be finished today! I am making an owl hat for my friend, Matt. He is a youth pastor. The high school in his city has an owl mascot. A purple owl with white eyes and white horns/ tufts. I am working up the eyes, beak, and tufts now.

I hope he enjoys wearing his hat to the high school games! I can't wait to see how it looks when it's finished!

I'll give you more details about each of these projects when they're completed. {I know. The suspense is going to kill you.}

Black Cherry Lemonade

2012-01-03T15:01:00.001-05:00

This is one of my favorite yarns that I have dyed! I wasn't sure how it would come out. Honestly, it was a scary experiment. The moment I pulled it out of the crock pot, I was in love!

I used about 4 ounces (half the skein) of Lion Brand Fisherman's Wool. I skeined it all out on my homemade swift and tied in loosely in 3 spots. On my swift, one full rotation is about 3 yards. So I know have a big loop that is 3 yards around.

I filled a bowl with hot tap water and a big glug of vinegar. Then I gently pushed my yarn down in and let it soak about 30 minutes.

While the yarn is soaking, I made the dye. I mix my dye in big 16 ounce mugs. For the red dye, I used almost 3 packages of black cherry Kool-Aid, a small glug of vinegar, and filled with enough hot tap water to equal about 3/4 cup of liquid. Stir it really well until it is dissolved. For the yellow dye, I used 2 packages of Lemonade Kool-Aid, a small glug of vinegar, and filled with enough hot tap water to equal about 3/4 cup of liquid. Again, stir it really well until it is dissolved.

Next I gently moved the yarn into the crockpot. I just let it coil down in~ there's no orderly fashion at all. I then pour in enough of the soaking water to almost cover the yarn.

Next I poured in the dye. I poured the red dye in a straight line throught he center of the crockpot. The yellow dye was poured into two spots on each side of the line. The picture above is when I first poured the dye. The picture below is a couple of hours into the heating process (when I should not have been opening the lid).

The yarn should now be covered. Do not stir! Resist the temptation to mix! It will not look right, but the dye will spread as it gets hot.

I turned the crockpot on low and left it for 4 or 5 hours. Do not lift the lid if you can help it. I can see through the lid on my crockpot, so I don't have to lift it at all. When it looks like the water is clear or almost clear, I turn the crockpot off. Leave the lid on! Now I leave it until it's completely cool. I usually just leave it all night.

In the morning, I gently take the yarn out and rinse with lukewarm water.For this yarn, I don't think I put it in the microwave to set the dye. It usually does fine without the microwave set since I have so much vinegar in the water. Plus, the vinegar makes the Fisherman's wool nice and soft!

I love how it turned out! I just had to knit up something girly with this one. It become a lovely little pair of ruffled longies and trimmed a matching hat. (You can grab them in the DaisyHead Creations shop.)

Baby Gretel

2011-12-31T20:06:00.008-05:00

Baby Gretel is one of my most requested patterns from The Brave Creative welcome series. I have found that people don't like waiting for this pattern.

So~ I have decided to make it available for immediate download. You can get it for free, 14 days after signing up for The Brave Creative~ or you can buy it today. The choice is yours.

Here are the details of this sought after knitting pattern:

When my little girlie wore this hat, I always imagined she should be skipping happily through the forest. This conjured up images from the fairy tale, Hansel and Gretel. So this hat came to be known as Baby Gretel~ because babies and toddlers cannot skip through the forest alone.

Sizes (Head Circumference): Newborn (12-13”), 0-6 month (13-15”), 9-18 month (15-17”), 2T-3T (17-19”)

Materials:
worsted weight wool or wool blend
US 8 (5mm) 16” double point needles (or size that obtains gauge)
US 7 ( mm) 16” double point needles (or one size smaller than gauge needle)
tapestry needle

If you dislike DPNs, you can use another method of small diameter knitting in the round. The larger 2 sizes are big enough to use a 16” circular needle.

Get this pattern for free as part of the welcome series when you sign up for The Brave Creative newsletter. It will arrive to you 14 days after sign-up. If you don't like delayed gratification, you are welcome to get it now. :o)

TO DOWNLOAD

This 2-page PDF file contains instructions for knitting your own Baby Gretel.

Payment is through Paypal, and download is through Ravelry. (Registration is not necessary for either site.) You should receive a pattern download email from Ravelry shortly after you pay (or your e-check clears).

$2.49 USD

When you buy the pattern, you may also sell five items per year without the purchase of a $10 Cottage Industry License. In order to sell more than this limit from my pattern, you must contact me about Licensing. See sidebar for details.

This pattern is only for personal use. If you are giving the pattern as a gift, please contact me before purchasing so that I can send the pattern directly to the receiver.

Ultimate Daisy

2011-12-31T19:58:00.004-05:00

The Ultimate Daisy is one of my most requested patterns from The Brave Creative welcome series. I have found that people don't like waiting for this pattern.

So~ I have decided to make it available for immediate download. You can get it for free, 21 days after signing up for The Brave Creative~ or you can buy it today. The choice is yours.

Here are the details of this sought after crochet pattern:

As you know, I love daisies! This one is my favorite daisy. I love how big it is and how wispy the petals look. It’s the ultimate daisy! You can use Ultimate Daisy to adorn anything you’d like to sew it onto~ bags, headbands, hats… the sky is the limit. I hope you love it as much as I do!
Gauge is not important for this project. Change yarn and needle size as you like to change the size of your daisy.

Get this pattern for free as part of the welcome series when you sign up for The Brave Creative newsletter. It will arrive to you 21 days after sign-up. If you don't like delayed gratification, you are welcome to get it now. :o)

TO DOWNLOAD

This 2-page PDF file contains instructions for knitting your own Ultimate Daisy.

$1.99 USD

Cardboard Box Into Lighted Dollhouse!

2011-12-22T17:19:00.017-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 31

This seriously makes me want to be a little girl again!

Another Pinterest find. Gold. Pure gold. Cardboard box into dollhouse. With lights!

Grab a cardboard box and make your own dollhouse with this handy, dandy tutorial!

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I hope you have enjoyed 31 Days of Crafty Inspiration! I hope you'll come visit often and share about your own projects. I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Family Tree-- as Art

2011-12-22T15:39:00.021-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 30

I love drawings and paintings of trees. L-O-V-E.

I need to make this for my wall.

This was a listing on Etsy that was pinned by someone. Unfortunately, it was not pinned properly. It did not get linked to the actual listing but to a search page, so I cannot give credit to its rightful owner. (If you find the proper shop, will you let me know so that I can link it? Thanks!)

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What's inspiring you today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

More T-shirts Into Fabulous!

2011-12-21T15:38:00.022-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 29

Maybe it's because I'm in gift-giving mode, but I adore these little bracelets. And I think my daughters and nieces would adore them as well!

V. and Co. has an amazing tutorial that enables you to take an old t-shirt and transform it into lovely, upcycled goodness. And it looks pretty easy!

My poor husband may not have any t-shirts left...

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What's inspiring you today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Men's Shirt Into Feminine Loveliness

2011-12-21T14:30:00.016-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 28

I absolutely adore today's inspiration! And I have a shirt that belongs to Hubby that has seen it's last days as a shirt. The poor collar has worn through~ and this shirt would not look good with a collar of a different fabric.

So said shirt is destined to become my skirt! Check out the tutorial over at Blu Babes Create. She was inspired by Grosgrain... Go check them out!

I'll let you know how mine turns out...
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Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Ribbon Organizing Genius

2011-12-20T14:29:00.033-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 27

Are you like me? Do you have spool upon spool of ribbon in a tangled mess?

I've seen lots of storage solutions for ribbon spools, but none of them have seemed workable for me. There's always something about the actual use that would make me crazy. But I finally found the perfect solution~ and it's inexpensive! And of course, I found it on Pinterest.

There is an awesome tutorial over at Spunky Junky, although you almost don't need one. :o)

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What's inspiring you today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Seeing Stars-- Star Ornaments, That Is

2011-12-20T14:27:00.021-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 26

I would love to have colorful stars like these on my Christmas tree!

Of course, I saw these on Pinterest. I think I will make some colorful stars using my Dress Ups star, only without the buttonhole in the center. Then I could add some embellishments. I can imagine some fun ornaments in my future!

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What's inspiring you today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Photo Fun!

2011-12-19T15:28:00.001-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 25

Maybe it's because we are in the midst of Christmas crafting, but I think this would be a fabulous gift!

It would also look great on my wall!

With five children, it's easy to have more pictures than we have frames or wall space. This looks like the perfect solution! And she has a wonderful tutorial up~ go check it out.

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What's inspiring you today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Snowflakes-- Crochet Style

2011-12-17T23:40:00.001-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 24

Amidst Christmas preparations, all I could think about doing today was making some more Christmas ornaments. A few years ago, I crocheted some snowflake ornaments. I really, really want to make some for my own home!

However, real life kept me from crocheting.

I think these would even be lovely winter fare hanging from the lights or curtains.

These are from a Lion Brand free pattern. I may try them with crochet thread this time...

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What's inspiring you today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Tiny Christmas Trees

2011-12-15T20:54:00.001-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 23

These tiny Christmas trees are adorable! They're like the perfect little miniatures!

The Wool Acorn has a great tutorial to make your own tiny tree~ complete with tiny needle felted ornaments. They also sell a kit.

I, however, think I may take the easy route. I think I will get tiny pom poms from the store and let the children help. It sounds like a wonderful way to spend an afternoon of Christmas crafting with my brood. And they'd be cute gifts, too!

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Epsom Salt Genius

2011-12-14T15:53:00.011-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 22

I must go buy epsom salt!

For a seriously gorgeous and seriously easy bit of of sparkle, all you need is epsom salt, a canning jar, and a small candle. Who knew!

Genius! This lady is a genius!

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What's inspiring you today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

A Little Fluff for Christmas

2011-12-13T15:53:00.016-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 21

These are amazingly lovely! Another positive is that little hands cannot break them!

Run-- do not walk-- over to Craftaholics Anonymous to find out how to make your own fabric pom poms.

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What's inspiring you today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Buttons + Cardboard

2011-12-12T15:48:00.015-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 20

I really cannot believe that this has happened, but I have been inspired by another wreath! I know.

But isn't it gorgeous?!

Find the amazing tutorial over at Craftapalooza and make one for yourself. I'm going to!

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What's inspiring you today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

A Fun Recycle a Sweater Idea!

2011-12-11T14:07:00.001-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 19

I am now trying to remember if I have any sweaters in my closet that I will never wear again. I seriously want to make these now!

Fingerless mitts from a sweater. And it would be so easy (and quick) to make them whatever length you want them!

Are you trying to think of a sweater you can cut up now?

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Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Paper Snowflakes

2011-12-10T15:46:00.010-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 18

Yes, today is more paper. It's still on my mind...

But these are super cool! These are not your ordinary smowflakes~ and they help you clear out the pile of junk mail.

Snowflakes made by cutting up your junk mail! Take that, advertisers!

Talk about making something lovely out of something ugly...

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What's inspiring you today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Paper Ornaments

2011-12-09T15:46:00.017-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 17

More paper love to share with you today. This time it's these lovely paper ornaments.

I want to make some of these to adorn the Christmas tree and the house, but these lovelies really do not appear seasonal. They would be lovely any time of year!

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What's inspiring you today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

An Out-of-the-Box Wreath

2011-12-08T16:45:00.005-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 16

Once again inspired by Pinterest, I have found a super cool thing that I really must make.

A wreath.

Mind you, I am not a lover of wreaths. But this one is made of flowers~ that have been watercoloered~ onto pages from a book. Have a gander!

Is this not lovely?!

Go visit Alisa Burke's site. I guarantee you'll find some inspiration there!

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What's inspiring you today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Critter Hats & Faces

2011-12-07T15:45:00.020-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 15

I have been crocheting lots of baby owl hats lately. It keeps reminding me of a wonderfully fun video done by the wonderful Susan B. Anderson.

I needed a little fun today, so I thought I would share the video with you. Enjoy!

If you make knitted toys or amigurumi, you really cannot leave Susan's Channel without watching this fabulous tutorial on making faces on your critters.

Gotta go make some more baby owls!

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What's inspiring you today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Pass a Tissue, Please

2011-12-06T15:40:00.024-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 14

I have been looking at my Great Gifts pin board a lot lately. I have gift making on my mind!

I think these little tissue cozies would make perfect gifts! Aren't they cute? And she has an awesome tutorial.

I also love these felt tissue cozies from Martha Stewart.

I would love to embellish some sweet cozies with embroidery!

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What's inspiring you today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Lip Balm~ Gotta Love It!

2011-12-05T15:40:00.028-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 13

Now that it's cold, we find ourselves needing lip balm several times a day. I can't believe it's winter already!

I have seen several pins lately that detail making your own lip balm. I want to try it!

This post has a few recipes that look wonderful. I think I will try these first.

Then I really must make some peppermint balm! Love peppermint! This vegan lime-peppermint lip balm looks perfect!

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What's inspiring you today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Snowflakes

2011-12-04T15:39:00.014-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 12

December is here, and it makes me want to create a wintery wonderland inside my home. Mostly so that I can enjoy it in the warmth, rather than going out into the cold!

These 3-D Snowflakes will be making an appearance in my windows sometime soon!

Aren't they lovely? I'm thinking of a silver, shiny paper. Oooh...

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Wearin' a Shawl

2011-12-03T15:38:00.023-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 11

Since the weather has turned cold in my part of the world, I find that I just want to be wrapped in lovely knitting. My shawls and shawlettes are going to get a workout this winter!

When I first starting knitting shawls I found this fabulous video that gave me some great inspiration on how to wear my shawls. It was put together by the creative folks of Knit Picks, and it shows how great they truly are! You can find it on their site in the tutorial section, which is full of treasures.

I hope you find as much inspiration here as I have!

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Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

My Broomstick Lace

2011-12-02T12:37:00.014-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 10

Back on Day 6, my inspiration was broomstick lace. At that point, I was only just trying it for the first time.

Look at the bracelet I made!

Since then, I have made several bracelets. Some are with this discontinued Senso Metallic Black thread, and some are with a Senso thread that is tan. Some are 3 loops wide and some are 2 loops wide.

I love these little bracelets!

The inspiration for today is that I am still thinking about and dreaming up projects using broomstick lace. What I'm pondering is earrings of broomstick lace. Sounds lovely, huh?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
What's inspiring you today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Owls and Yarn in Crock Pots

2011-11-29T23:28:00.001-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 9

I feel like I have been so busy these last few days that I almost have not had time to sleep. But it's been the most fun kind of busy! I have been dyeing yarn, knitting, crocheting, and designing a new crochet pattern. I love those kinds of busy days!

A friend of mine had a baby not long ago. She had been to a baby shower where the new momma and baby had been given a tiny owl hat. It was crocheted and had an owl face covering the whole front of the baby's head. It was so cute, and my friend fell in love with it. She showed me the picture and asked if I could make her one. Of course, I said I would do my best. I love making baby hats!

I experimented and played until I got something close to her picture, which really means "until I was satisfied." I'm my own worst critique sometimes. I made a dark brown version and a tan version for her to choose from. I can't wait to see it on her baby boy's sweet little head!

Of course, now Teeny (my 4yo who loves owls) is asking for an owl hat of her own. She wants hers to be like a Snow Owl. I think some of these cuties will have to go in my shop. I think they are begging to go in the shop.

This is my mountain of empty packages~ for 2 hanks of wool!

I have also been dyeing yarn. I love dyeing yarn! I love to post my dye recipes and try to explain the process of how I crafted each colorway. Women who knit wool soakers often like to try their hand at dyeing their own wool so that they can knit their baby a one of a kind creation, but it can be intimidating if you've never done it before. I like to explain it so that someone can try to replicate the results~ it's not as scary that way.

I cannot tell you how many times people have commented to me that I should sell some of my yarns! They really like a particular yarn, but don't feel brave enough to try it. My life's mantra is "Be brave, be creative," so I just jump in. But I have now been asked about a million times for yarn, so I have finally caved. {That's how many times I have to be asked before I cave-- a million.} I am dyeing worsted weight wool to put in my shop. And I must tell you, it's tons of fun!

This is how my hands looked when I was finished putting the dye in with the yarn. Lovely, huh? I could be more careful, but I don't really care if my hands turn colors. It's Kool-Aid and food coloring. It's pretty. And it smells good.

If you have never tried dyeing wool in the crock pot before, you really must! It's a blast! It always looks like an awful mess. I'm always sure the yarn is going to turn out disgustingly ugly, but it never does. When I pull the mess of yarn carefully out of the crock pot, I am always greeted by the vibrant beauty of the colors, and I am immediately ready to knit with this colorful string to see how lovely it makes the stitches. {Okay. I know I sound like an addict, and I really need help. I know.} This time I dyed my extremely popular Skittles yarn and Black Cherry Lemonade. Yum!

Black Cherry Lemonade~ in the crock pot

Now that you're really worried about me~ and you've made it this far through my insanity~ I will let you in on a secret (that's not really secret).

I am having a Sale! A CyberWeek Sale!

Everything in the DaisyHead Creations Etsy shop is available with free shipping all week! Right now in the shop, you will find wool soakers, longies, shorties, soaker sack, skirtie, baby hats, stitch markers, and cotton face cloths and scrubbies. Over the next couple of days, you will also find fingerless mitts, cowls, and handdyed yarn.

At checkout, just use Code: HOLIDAY to receive free shipping in the US. Good until the end of the day on Friday, December 2. (If you are not in the US, contact me. If shipping is comparable to US, I will give it to you.)

But wait! If you're a knitter or crocheter and prefer to make your own knits, I also have a sale for you!

All DaisyHead Creations patterns are on sale 15% off! Just shop at my pattern store or on Ravelry and use Code:CYBERWEEK. This will not work on Etsy~ only in my Pattern store. You will get an automatic download link for your pattern and can start knitting or crocheting right away.

And feel free to tell all your Holiday-shopping friends!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

What have you been crafting this week?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Bulky + Fuzzy= Yum

2011-11-15T15:56:00.025-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 8

I have had a bunch of Lion Suede in my stash for quite some time now. This yarn was discontinued, but it's lovely for bulky, winter warmth.

I recently needed to pull out my winter beret to walk to the store while it was snowing. My beret is the Urchin pattern, made with Lion Suede. Love it!

So I was inspired to pull the Lion Suede out of the tote and work up some bulky, fuzzy loveliness for the shop.

This time I decided to crochet the bulky, fuzzy loveliness.

Color: Rose. This one is still in process.

Color: Scarlet. Almost finished.

These two fuzzy lovelies are almost ready for the shop. I almost hate to see them go. I am sooo tempted to keep there super soft warmth for myself!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
What winter loveliness are you dreaming of?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Buttons!

2011-11-14T14:23:00.034-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 7

After making broomstick lace bracelets, I needed buttons to serve as closures. I love buttons!

I pulled out my bag of assorted buttons. The digging and matching began. Then my girls joined the fun. We started matching up sets of buttons. Then we got out some crochet thread and put all the matching buttons on a loop together.

This is how my Grandma organized her buttons. Makes me kind of nostalgic.

I love these round, orange buttons!

I really love these orange and black ones, too. I found buttons for my bracelets, but I also found buttons that I now am dying to use. Gotta find more projects that need buttons!

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Broomstick Lace

2011-11-13T14:02:00.000-05:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 6

My friend pinned this awesome bracelet that she found on Pinterest. When she pointed it out to me, I knew I had to try it out!

I've never really paid much attention to broomstick lace in the past. I never really even noted whether it was knit, or crochet, or ...

Now I must try my hand at it. I don't know what took me so long.

Here's the bracelet she pinned:

You can find the tutorial for this bracelet at Cult of Crochet. The post includes directions for left-handed broomstick lace, as well as a link for right-handed instructions.

I searched You Tube to see if I could find a good video tutorial. I just needed to be sure that I was really doing it correctly. For me, sometimes I just need to see it being done. I found a great tutorial! This lady says she is an beginner at making videos and doesn't know how to edit them, which means the tutorial is a little long (it's broken into 3 parts), but it's an excellent instructional. The video is clear and well-lit, she explains well, and you can see exactly what she is doing.

This project is going on my hook right now! Off to shop the stash...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day! I'd also like to invite you to join the conversation at The Daisyhead on Facebook. I'd love to meet you!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

{photo credit}

I May or May Not Have Bitten Off More Than I Could Chew

2011-11-13T13:50:00.000-05:00

You may have noticed that 31 Days of Crafty Inspiration sort of stopped abruptly.

Yeah. I think I bit off more than I could chew. I was also doing a 31 Days series on my mothering/ homeschooling blog. Plus, I got sick-- twice-- during the series.

Anyway, I still think it's a fun idea, so I am going to pick up where I left off. I am planning on sharing with you the things that are inspiring me each day. I hope to also add in some posts that show you what I am creating from those inspirations.

It's going to be fun! So I hope you come back often and join me for (the rest of) 31 Days of Crafty Inspiration.

And I hope you'll share what has been inspiring you as well~ either in the comments or on the DaisyHead Creations Facebook page. Or post it on your blog and link back to me using the button below.

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Gotta Write

2011-10-05T17:02:00.003-04:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 5

I'm still thinking about journals! More specifically putting writings or drawings into the journals I want to create. I am a very sensory type of person. I have my favorite pens~ the ones that feel just write when I use them. And I hate not being able to find the proper writing apparatus when I want to write.

That's why this little gem looks perfect! I just can't decide if I want a rubber one or not. Still pondering...

Isn't this a terrific idea!

Check out the Clever Hands shop to see all the straps available.

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Feeling Journal-y

2011-10-04T23:35:00.002-04:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 4

Thinking about Smash books always makes me begin to dream about making my own. Last week Etsy's How-Tuesday was all about creative journals. I'm loving it!

These soo make me want to go make some journals of my own! I may even put pretty papers inside. Sort of a smash book a la Connie. Hmmm......

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
What are you inspired to create today?

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Smash it!

2011-10-03T23:26:00.002-04:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 3

A twitter friend introduced me to Smash books a couple of months ago. I still haven't gotten my hands on one, but I can't stop thinking about them!

If you haven't seen Smash books yet, you really must see it with your own craft-lovin' eyes! Have a look at this video and then pop over to their blog as well. Plus, they have lots of other videos on You Tube!

That's enough inspiration to last a few days, huh?!

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Hello, Doilies

2011-10-02T18:57:00.013-04:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 2

Today I'm thinking about doilies. Specifically things you can do with doilies that are not the usual prettifying of a table.

I really need to find some doilies at the thrift shop because I need one of these in my dining room.

Ysolda had a brilliant idea that she displayed on her blog some time ago. My windows need some, too!

Do you have any doily inspiration to share? Links to doilies or items made from doilies that you have featured on a blog? Links to great ideas you have found online? Ideas you have? Please share in the comments~ I'd love some more inspiration!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

Simply Scarves!

2011-10-01T22:16:00.003-04:00

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration:: Day 1

A friend pinned the most awesome video the other day. It's a 4.5-minute video that shows you 25 different ways to wear a scarf. You have to experience this video! It really made me want more scarves!

I immediately went to scour Ravelry for scarf patterns!

My first thought was the Lace Ribbon Scarf that I had frogged. I need to finish one!

And then there are these lovelies...

I really must go play with my scarves now... maybe put some outfits together...maybe shop for yarn...

Come back for more crafty inspiration tomorrow. Better yet, get it in your inbox so you won't miss a day!

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

If you would like to link back to this series, you can grab this code to put the button in your sidebar.

For this series, I am linking up with the nester and other 31 Dayers. If you'd like to jump in with your own 31 Days series you can find all the info here.

31 Days of Crafty Inspiration

2011-09-30T13:14:00.002-04:00

October is almost here. If you're around the blogosphere much, you may know that October means it's time for 31 Days. For the last few years, the nester and a few friends took the month of October and posted each day on one topic. This year they have invited everyone to join in with them. (If you'd like to join, you can write your own series and link up over at the nester's place.) The idea is to pick a topic that you would like to write about for 31 days~ maybe something that you're passionate about, something you would like to work on changing in your life, something people always ask you about... You get the idea.

I immediately wanted to join in. Now to choose just the right topic. What would be helpful to my readers? What do other crafters ask me about? What topic could I write about for 31 posts without boring everyone to tears?

Then is occurred to me. I will do a series on the single most important thing to a crafter. Inspiration. We wouldn't make a thing without it, right?

So I will share 31 days of things that inspire me.

I hope you will find some inspiration in there as well.

I would love it if you'd share some of your inspirations in the comments.

After all, we work best when we find inspiration of many different sources.

Be brave, be creative~

Connie

To see all the posts in this series, just click the 31 Days to Crafty Inspiration button over there in the sidebar. :o)

I'm also doing a 31 Days series over on my mothering blog. (Glutton for punishment? Or prolific? Jury's still out.) You can join me over there for some talk about parenting teens!

Peaceful. Simple. Beautiful.

2011-09-14T08:33:00.008-04:00

Last week I was honored to do some bridal henna. I've done menhdi before, but never for a wedding. It was so much fun!

The bride and her groom are both very creative people. Rachael is a wonderful artist. She may not say so herself, but everyone around her knows better. It seems that every time I see her, both hands are covered with drawings. The inspirations strikes, and her ink pen takes flight across her hands.

When I heard she was getting married, I knew that menhdi would be perfect for Rachael! I immediately offered my amateur henna skills. I was so excited that she took me up on the offer.

We began applying henna and getting to know one another late in the evening. We worked and laughed until well past midnight. It was sweet getting to know this young bride a little better and to contribute to her wedding in such a memorable way. I'm so happy that she trusted me with her hands for her wedding day.

They had a lovely wedding ceremony at the edge of the river near sunset. It was peaceful and simple. They were barefoot by the river. And her wedding dress was to-die-for beautiful!

Her joyful hug the day of her wedding was all the thanks I needed.

Isn't she beautiful?

Be brave, be creative~

Connie

Baby Bag

2011-08-05T18:05:00.001-04:00

I often have people ask me how I knit my soaker sacks-- like a wool soaker, but like a gown so you can just pull it up and change the diaper then pull back down. If you use wool soakers but have never used a soaker sack, you should give it a go. They are fabulous for nighttime changes, especially with very young babies. It would even be a fabulous way to keep the bed dry if baby frequently soaks through a disposable diaper! We all hate changing the bed in the middle of the night, right? This pattern is how I make my soaker sacks so that they will have the same trim fit above the hips as my other DaisyHead Creations soakers patterns.

So here it is:

Baby Bag

Materials

100% wool yarn, worsted weight~ 200 yards should be more than enough
US 7 (4.5mm) 16” circular knitting needle or size that obtains gauge
US 5 (3.75mm) 16” circular needle or 2 sizes smaller than gauge needle
*Optional*US 3 (3.25mm) 16” circular needle or 4 sizes smaller than gauge needle
Tapestry or yarn needle

Gauge
5 stitches per inch. Row gauge is not important for this project.

Size
Newborn~ hips =16”
Small~ hips =18”
Soaker sack measures approx. 14” long

Pattern Notes
Instructions given for Newborn size; instructions for size Small are given in parenthesis.

If you prefer, you can skip the US 3 needle. It does make the top of the bag more trim above the hips, but it is not absolutely necessary. You can work the waist ribbing with the US 5 with good results.

The size of your Baby Bag can easily be adjusted. In order to make it bigger or smaller, simply add or subtract a multiple of 3 to the number you cast on. In order to make the soaker sack longer or shorter, simply knit until the work measures 2 inches less than the desired length, then begin the final ribbing.

Pattern

Using US 3 needle, cast on 81 (90) sts.
Join, being careful not to twist and begin working in the round. Work k2, p1 ribbing for 2 inches.

Switch to US 5 needle,knit 6 rounds (about 1”).

Switch to US 7 needle, knit until work measures about 12” from cast-on edge.

Switch to US 5 needle, work k2, p1 ribbing for 2 inches.
Bind off in pattern (knit the knits, purl the purls).

Finishing
Make a drawstring (You can use i-cord, braid, etc.) approx. 26” long. Using a tapestry needle, simply weave the drawstring between stitches of the waistband- no holes needed. Lanolize and enjoy!

Enjoy!

This is a 2 page pdf containing instructions to create your own Baby Bag sleepsack.

download now

You do not have to be a Ravelry member to download.

Until next time,

Be brave, be creative~
Connie

Copyright info DaisyHead Creations (Connie Stults)
This pattern is copyright protected. The copyright does not transfer with sale. You are buying a digital copy, which may not be sold or given away, either in printed or in digital form. Rights for use are only for the original buyer.

You may knit items from this pattern for personal use, charity, and gift giving. You may also knit items from it in your own home for occasional sale (meaning 5 items per year). This is for WAHM use, not mass production. Please give credit to me in your listing by identifying the item as a DaisyHeadCreations pattern. If you intend to sell more than 5 per year, please contact me about purchasing a cottage license. I know what it’s like to be a WAHM. Therefore, the cottage license is good for a lifetime, and the price is minimal. This is only intended to honor the time and effort put into the creation of this pattern by my family and myself. I am not responsible for the finished product sold by another WAHM using this pattern.

My Latest News!

2011-07-21T14:21:00.002-04:00

I am working on some ebooks for you!

I very frequently hear people say that they have learned to knit or to crochet, but cannot really make much because they can't read a pattern. I have looked for a good resource to help on several occasions- but to no avail. (I'd love to hear if you know of a good resource in existence!) So I have decided to write an ebook to teach someone how to read patterns. The book will include a portion of a real pattern, and alongside the pattern, I will explain in real English what the instructions mean. So far, I have been getting positive feedback about this method.

This project will end up as 2 separate ebooks- one for knitting patterns and one for crochet patterns. I have not yet figured out what to call them. I would love to have you all brain storm with me! If you have some ideas for book titles, I would love it if you would leave me a comment here or on the DaisyHead Creations Facebook page.

I am even more excited about the third project I am working on! You may have read that I was asked to speak at an online conference about starting a crafting business. Well, I am turning that workshop into an ebook! I will walk you through the details of beginning a crafting business- from my own experience. I also plan to interview some other crafters who are in business, so that you can benefit from things they have learned along the way as well. I am so excited to get this book out there for you all!

Be brave, be creative~

Connie

Winner of How to Market and Sell Your eBook Giveaway!

2011-07-18T23:12:00.001-04:00

After a bit of delay due to an unexpectedly hectic weekend, I bring you the winner of How to Market and Sell Your eBook by Sarah Mae!

And the winner is.....

Amanda!

Congratulations, Amanda! Please contact me about claiming your ebook.

If you would like to find out more about this ebook, visit the How to Market and Sell Your Ebook site.

How to Market and Sell Your eBook (& a Giveaway!)

2011-07-07T17:23:00.006-04:00

When I heard that Sarah Mae was writing an ebook about marketing and selling ebooks, I was so excited! You see, I have a few ebook projects that I had just begun working on when I heard this news. The timing could not have been better. It got even better when I was chosen to review the book. I love reading books, telling others about the books I've read, and I needed to read this book. What could be better?

My only problem with reading this ebook is that it took forever for me to get through it. I kept stopping to go do what she suggested! That was exactly what I needed from this ebook~ the knowledge and inspiration to get my ebook project off the ground. Sarah Mae's book did just that!

How to Market and Sell Your Ebook teaches the average person how to publish his own ebook and get it out there for others to read. You don’t have to be a publisher or a published author in order to share your ebook with others. It is possible. You only have to hear the story of her ebook 31 Days to Clean (which sold over 11,000 copies in its first two months of release) to believe that, but this ebook really shows you how you can make that same story a reality for your own ebook. Sarah Mae walks you through each step in detail. Mind you, it’s not a 10 Step Plan that is laid out for you to follow exactly, but she does give you very clear, simple steps to follow and the inspiration to dream up additional ways to market your own work. (Remember how I constantly had to stop reading?)

Sarah Mae covers everything from content, building your platform, and creating a community to upfront costs, how to defray the cost, and where to publish your ebook. The last section of the book is where I got super excited~ “Your Step-by-Step Marketing Strategy.” In this section she guides you through the maze of branding and building a buzz for your ebook. It includes a discussion about choosing titles and url’s and hashtags, asking others to help you get the word out, using the power of Amazon, and how to have a spectacular launch. Did I already say that Sarah Mae has included everything you will need to know? The only thing she doesn’t tell you is how to write!

I promise you will not be disappointed with this book! It is more than worth the $4.99 cost!

Just before the launch of the ebook, I had asked to be considered to write a review. The book launched (with a great 50% off sale) before I heard whether I had been chosen to review. I couldn’t resist. I had to buy it and start reading! When I was chosen to review, Sarah Mae very generously gave me a free copy of the ebook to read for the review, plus a copy to give away. So I am giving 2 of my 3 copies away! One will be given here and one on my other blog.

Here are the details for this giveaway:

Leave me comment and tell me about the ebook you would love to write. If you don’t have an idea for an ebook to write yourself, what ebook would you love to see written? (Or even just leave me some kind of comment. The questions are just for fun.) Make sure that your comment includes a way to contact you~ in case you win!

For additional entries:

1) 1) Leave a comment about my review or your ebook idea on my Facebook Page.

2) 2) Tweet about this giveaway with a link to the post. Come back here and leave an additional comment telling me that you tweeted and your twitter handle.

3) 3) Blog about the giveaway with a link back to this post. Come back here and leave an additional comment telling me that you blogged and include a link to your blog post.

4) 4) Follow this blog (in your chosen method or reader) and leave an additional comment to let me know.

6) 5) Sign up for any of my newsletters~ either Pleasant Words (in the top left sidebar) or my business newsletters and leave an additional comment to let me know.

Leave a separate comment for each entry. Entries will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on July 14. A winner will be announced on July 15. Be sure to stop by to see who wins this amazing ebook!

Disclaimer: I was given 2 copies of this ebook in order to review and give one away. However, they were not given so that I would give a positive review. The thoughts shared here are my honest opinions. (And I can be quite skeptical.)

Also, the links included to the ebook are my affiliate links. I only became an affiliate because I loved the book. It did not influence my review. The affiliate links mean that I make a small amount on each purchase made through my link. Any money earned will help to buy my children’s school curriculum~ so thank you. If you prefer not to go through the affiliate link, you can click here.

Be brave, be creative~

Connie

There Has to Be a Better Way

2011-06-09T19:05:00.001-04:00

Blocking. I love the results it gives, but the thought of blocking an item makes me groan. Not all items, I guess. Just the larger items, like shawls or scarves.

The blocking will be worth it.

The awkwardness of blocking a really long or really odd-shaped item is exacerbated by the small space that I live in with six other people. Maybe I just need a better system for blocking. Or a bigger house.

I just know a child is gonna step on this bad boy.

There is just not a good place to let a large item dry where it will not be in danger of getting stepped on by a child or lain on by the doggie. I won't even mention the possibility of mutilation by a preschooler.

A bigger space is wanted, but in the meantime, I think I need a better system. Surely someone else can help me out. How do I solve my blocking dilemma? How~ and where~ do you block your finished projects?

Signed~
Frustrated, aka Connie

My First Speaking Engagement!

2011-05-17T17:25:00.002-04:00

I was asked to speak about crafting businesses for an online Christian women's conference! I am so honored and excited!

The conference is called Ultimate Women's Expo. The focus of this conference is to inspire, encourage, and equip Christian women who are running or starting their own business. The theme for this year is Creating Success and Defining Your Voice. Just hearing the theme is inspiring, isn't it?!

Here are the details of my workshop:

Got Craft? Make It a Business!
Do you sew, knit, crochet, paint, make jewelry, or love crafting in general? No matter your medium, the market for handmade items is very hot right now. If you have ever thought of sharing your crafting with others, this is a great time to try it! Connie will share what she has learned about selling handmade items and how you can get started. With a little creativity and research, you can start your own crafting business locally or online.

Wanna know more?

This Expo works a little differently than most. Cindy Rushton began this Expo years ago. She is such a generous person that she wanted to offer sessions for FREE so that anyone could see what the Expo is like and benefit from great information without buying a ticket. Last year she found an equally generous lady to take over running the Expo. Felice Gerwitz has kept these FREE sessions! She really has a heart to minister and help other women along. She's a gem!

Some of the sessions are recorded live. Those sessions are absolutely FREE. You can come to the chat room to listen to the speaker at the time of taping and participate in the chat. It's wonderful! You get the opportunity to ask questions of the speaker, and you get to make connections with other women in the chat room. Win-win!

Not all of the sessions are taped live. Many sessions are recorded behind the scenes. (My session was recorded today!) If you want access to all of the sessions, you can buy a ticket to the Expo. When you buy a ticket, you also get a load of freebies! It's just like going to a conference in real life~ but better! You can always listen to the mp3s of the sessions over again!

I really hope you'll check it out. Felice always puts together an awesome line-up of speakers. If you are even thinking of starting a crafting business, opening an online shop, writing a book, publishing an ebook, or any kind of business from home, then you will benefit from this conference!

If you want to find out more, you can listen to Felice explain the purpose and theme of Ultimate Women's Expo.

The Expo starts tomorrow! It runs from Wednesday, May 18 through Saturday, May 21. Don't miss it!

Also Wednesday evening's session will be followed by a Facebook party and lots of prizes! Come join us!

Connie

The links above are my affiliate links. If you wish to buy a ticket and click through my link, I earn a percentage of the ticket price. So if you click through my link~ Thank you!

When Momma Is Sick

2011-05-13T16:05:00.005-04:00

Earlier in the week I felt really awful. Just a touch of a stomach bug. I felt just awful enough that I felt like doing nothing, but I felt awful doing absolutely nothing. Have you ever had one of those days?

I decided I needed to knit something pretty~ but mindless. I looked in my Ravelry queue. Citron! Perfect! A lovely shawl with no lace. And I had the perfect yarn! I set to work.

I bought several hanks of Knit Picks Shadow Kettle dyed in the Clementine colorway when it was clearanced out. I thought I might design a shawl with some lace stitch designs reminiscent of henna patterns. That will be for another yarn. This one needs to be Citron right now. I balled up the hank of laceweight yarn. Four hundred and forty yards of tiny laceweight yarn takes a long time to wind up on my nostepinne! But it cheered me up just winding the yarn.

I knitted all evening in my happy, yet sick state. I still felt yucky the next day, so I spent most of the day knitting.

But it so cheered me up! Isn't it lovely?!

What did the children do while Momma was sitting around sick and knitting, you ask?

The younger ones played restaurant. Look at the foods on the menu. A waffle in a hot dog bun. I see a career as a gourmet chef in the future.

What happens at your house when Momma is sick?

Connie

Baby Shower Hats

2011-05-04T19:03:00.001-04:00

I was invited to a friend's baby shower not long ago. She was expecting her first baby, so they were really starting from scratch as far as baby supplies. I decided she needed some baby hats. I had such fun making tiny baby hats!

First came an infant sized Simon Says toque. Everyone needs an all-purpose hat that will keep the tiniest baby's head warm. I thought the green would be perfect for their little boy.

Next came a little top knot hat in a 0-3 month size. Who doesn't love a neutral top knot?! So cute and tiny!

And the favorite hat of all~ a newborn sized chullo hat! You see, the baby's daddy is from Peru. I figured a little Peruvian American baby just had to have a chullo hat with tassels. They had registered for a sweet outfit that was green and white stripes with a frog on the front. I thought the colors would be perfect for a chullo hat. Plus, I knew they liked the colors!

I will never forget the expectant mom's squeal when she took this little hat out of the gift bag! Sweet music to a knitter's ears~ a happy reception to one of your creations.

They even had his hospital pictures taken in his little chullo hat! What an honor!

Be brave, be creative~

Connie

Spring Twirl

2011-03-30T20:51:00.002-04:00

Spring Twirl is the perfect accessory for spring! These fingerless mitts are perfect to keep hands warm during the cool days of spring. Just the right amount of warmth without getting too hot!

The lace pattern gently twirls around the hands. It really reminds me of the clematis vines sprouting in the spring!

Spring Twirl is worked in the round and is seamless. You can work these little lovelies in a short or a long version. Either way, they work up quickly! But be careful. They can be addicting...

Materials:

Worsted weight wool or wool blend

US 7(4.5mm) Double point needles (DPNs) or size that obtains gauge

Tapestry or yarn needle

Gauge:

16 sts per 4 inches (10.1cm) in stockinette stitch

16 sts per 4 inches (10.1cm) in Pattern

(Row gauge is not extremely important for this project.)

Sizes:

Small fits 7”- 8.5” (17.8- 21.5cm) hand circumference

Large fits 7.75”- 9.5” (19.7- 24.1cm) hand circumference

Finished Measurements:

Small: 6.75” (17.1cm) around; short version 6.5” (16.5cm), long version 10.5” (26.7cm)

Large: 7.5” (19cm) around; short version 6.5” (16.5cm), long version 10.5” (26.7cm)

Yardage:
Small- 108yds (short), 144yds (long)
Large- 120yds (short), 160yds (long)

TO DOWNLOAD

This 3-page PDF file contains instructions for knitting your own Spring Twirl.

$2.95 USD

The Most Fun Gift to Give!

2011-03-08T12:25:00.017-05:00

A few weeks ago I had the most fun gift giving experience! It was the most fun I've had giving a gift in a really long time.

Not long before Christmas, Travis, one of the guys in our church's internship program came over with a bag of clothing. He thought that one of my children may be able to use some clothing that he was clearing out of his closet. While he was here, he mentioned that his mom had recently learned to knit. (Of course, I told him to pass on info about Ravelry!) During the course of this conversation, he mentioned that he would love to have a stocking cap. I, of course, made a mental note.

After the holidays, I set to work to find a way to get his head measurement without him knowing. Hubby kept forgetting to put the plan into motion. When he finally remembered, one of the girls in the internship measured. She cut a string the size of his head circumference and sent it home with Hubby. Travis was confused. Ha! Success!

But the string measured 26 inches! There is no way his head is that big. We had to re-measure. Bummer. He now suspected. Oh, well. I played around with decreases and finally knit a long, striped stocking cap that I was happy with.

When the gift bag was handed over, it was met with only a hint of surprise. He asked if I had knit him a hat, and then revealed that my 3yo daughter had walked in moments earlier and said, "My momma made you a hat!" Oh, well. It didn't matter because Travis had no idea it was a stocking cap. He unfolded it, and his face burst into a huge smile. Then a laugh. I should have thought to take a picture or video the moment. We all burst into laughter at his pleasure over this stocking cap!

Doesn't he look happy?!

This was such a fun knit! I especially love the tassel on the end. But it was even more fun to give this knit! He was so in love with his stocking cap! It truly did make all the hours of stockinette and stripes worth it.

Isn't it fun to gift a handknit when the recipient really appreciates it? What was your most fun gift to give?

Belle

2011-02-13T23:28:00.000-05:00

Belle is a sweet crocheted cloche with a big three-tiered flower. This hat reminds me of a cloche you would find in the wardrobe of the ultimate southern belle. My girlies are totally in love with Belle!

The entire hat is worked in a variation of popcorn stitch. The variation gives the popcorns a soft, subtle puffiness.

Belle has a huge size range! They include Newborn, 0-6 mo, 6-12 mo, 18mo- Child, Small Adult, and Large Adult. You truly could crochet this hat for any of the girls and women in your life! (If you don't crochet, check my shop or send me a note. I am always happy to crochet for others!)

Materials:
Knit Picks Simply Cotton Worsted or other worsted weight cotton
Size H (5mm) crochet hook
tapestry needle

Gauge:
16 hdc= 4 inches

TO DOWNLOAD

This 5-page PDF file contains instructions for crocheting your own Belle.

$2.95 USD

add to cart

New Longies Winner

2011-01-29T18:47:00.001-05:00

Unfortunately, I have not heard from our longies winner. I was a very sick girl for almost a week, which gave our original winner a few extra days to contact me. But still, I have not gotten an email back.

So~ I am forced to choose a new winner. These longies need a home!

I went back to the random number generator. It gave me the number 86. Our new winner is...

Aimee!

"I love these longies. I would love to win, as my little guy has been wearing the same pair practically every day all winter!"

Aimee had a whopping 4 entries. I guess it paid off, Aimee! Congratulations!

I hope you enjoy your longies and will share a picture of them in action! Please send me your mailing info and I will get these right out to you.

I was thrilled when I found that Aimee's number came up. From her profile, it looks like she is a fellow knitter and fellow homeschooler. I love that! Plus, a little guy really needs some wardrobe choices, right?!

Be brave, be creative~

Connie

Longies Giveaway Winner!

2011-01-18T18:56:00.003-05:00

First I would like to say thank you to everyone who entered this giveaway! Thank you so much for all the complements on these longies! You all are the greatest!

Now to the winner!

I used the random number generator, and it gave me the number 69. The 69th entry proudly belongs to...

akm!

"Oooo! Beautiful... hoping I win! Also subscribed to your newsletter."

Comment on DaisyHead Creations blog

Congratulations, akm! I hope you enjoy your longies and will share a picture of them in action! Please send me your mailing info and I will get these right out to you.

This was fun. I may have to have another giveaway soon...

Green & Blue Tie Dye

2011-01-18T18:53:00.001-05:00

In honor of the Cushy longies giveaway, I thought I would share how I dyed the wool I used to knit these longies. When the yarn was hanging to dry, Hubby said it looked like it had been tie dyed. So we dubbed the yarn "Green and Blue Tie Dye."

I used a full 8 ounces of Lion Brand Fisherman's Wool. I skeined it all out on my homemade swift and tied in loosely in 3 spots. On my swift, one full rotation is about 3 yards. So I know have a big loop that is 3 yards around.

Still skeined. Can you see the white ties?

I filled a bowl with hot tap water and a big glug of vinegar. Then I gently pushed my yarn down in and let it soak about 30 minutes.

While the yarn is soaking, I made the dye. I mix my dye in big 16 ounce mugs. For the green dye, I used almost 1/2 teaspoon of Wilton's Icing Gel in Kelly Green, a small glug of vinegar, and filled with enough hot tap water to equal about 3/4 to 1 cup of liquid. Stir it really well until it is dissolved. For the blue dye, I used almost 1/2 teaspoon of Wilton's Icing Gel in Royal Blue, a small glug of vinegar, and filled with enough hot tap water to equal about 3/4 to 1 cup of liquid. Again, stir it really well until it is dissolved.

Next I gently moved the yarn into the crockpot. I just let it coil down in~ there's no orderly fashion at all. I then pour in enough of the soaking water to almost cover the yarn.

Next I poured in the dye. I poured the blue dye around the outside edge of the pot, like a "C" shape that went around half of the crockpot. The green dye was poured all in one spot and in the center of the empty are on the other half of the crockpot. Does that make sense. (I wish I had taken a picture!) So it kind of looked like a green circle with a blue "C" from the top to bottom on one side. The yarn should now be covered. Do not stir! Resist the temptation to mix! It will not look right, but the dye will spread as it gets hot.

I turned the crockpot on low and left it for 4 or 5 hours. Do not lift the lid if you can help it. I can see through the lid on my crockpot, so I don't have to lift it at all. When it looks like the water is clear or almost clear, I turn the crockpot off. Leave the lid on! Now I leave it until it's completely cool. I usually just leave it all night.

In the morning, I gently take the yarn out and rinse with lukewarm water.For this yarn, I don't think I put it in the microwave to set the dye. It usually does fine without the microwave set since I have so much vinegar in the water. Plus, the vinegar makes the Fisherman's wool nice and soft!

I love how the blue dye broke into blue and purple. I love how it really became a mix of green, blue, purple, and white!

I love this yarn! I think I'm going to dye more soon!

Be brave, be creative~

Connie

The Brave Creative Newsletter and Its Free Patterns

2011-01-16T16:34:00.004-05:00

When I created pattern pages for the free patterns included in the welcome series of The Brave Creative, I really just thought it would be great for others making them to be able to link their project to the patterns. I thought it would be great fun to see what you all made.

What I did not expect was the overwhelming response that I have gotten from people coming to find the patterns. I guess you all love free pattern as much as I do! Thank you so much!!

Here's the scoop, when you sign up for The Brave Creative e-newsletter (see it in the sidebar, off to the right, on the very top?), you will get a welcome series of 4 emails. When you sign up, the first email will arrive the following day. (That's the soonest I could have it arrive~ sorry.) The four welcome emails will arrive one week apart and will each contain some fun bits about me, some knitting and crochet tips, and a free pattern. After the welcome emails, you will receive one email per month. Many of them will contain more free patterns!

**As of Dec. 31, 2011, my two most asked for patterns from this series are available for purchase~ Baby Gretel and Ultimate Daisy. I have found that some folks did not want to wait 14 to 21 days before making the item. You can still get them free, but if you would rather have them now, you can scroll down to the buy button under the pattern pic.

Here is a peak at the patterns included in the welcome series.

Fiana

Baby Gretel (click for pattern info)

add to cart

Bead'Dazzled

Ultimate Daisy (click for pattern info)

add to cart

The Brave Creative is the only place where you can find these patterns. It's no fun to get patterns in a welcome series if you've already seen the pattern,ya know?

Be brave, be creative~

Connie

Playing with some crocheting

2011-01-13T20:07:00.001-05:00

I saw an adorable little crocheted item a few days ago. I needed to make something similar. I didn't want it to be exactly like the item I found. I wanted to tweak it a bit.

So I have been playing with a new design. I have been crocheting, ripping out, crocheting again. I have been doing math. I have been sizing. I'm getting closer.

Any guesses?

Giveaway!

2011-01-11T13:05:00.004-05:00

Today I bring you an unbelievable giveaway! Someone has the opportunity to win a pair of longies!

I knitted this pair of longies as I was finishing my Cushy pattern. I knitted them for my little girl, but by the time they were finished she had hit a growth spurt. So they were much too short. I was so sad about it because I love this yarn! When it came out of the dye pot, everyone in the house ooh'ed and aw'ed. It looked as if I tie dyed it. I loved these so much that I just have not been able to list them in my shop. I thought about frogging them and making a new pair of longies for Teeny, but haven't been able to bring myself to do it. So I decided they just need a loving home. One of you lucky ones can give them a home!

Here are their details:
*Bright tones of kelly green and bright blue with bits of purple and white
*Knitted in garter stitch with decorative seed stitch stripes. The garter stitch makes a thick, leak-resistant fabric. So soft and comfy! So bullet-proof!
*100% wool, hand dyed by myself.
*Size XL
*Encased elastic waistband~ no need for a drawstring!
*Wide leg/ Pipe leg.

Measurements (unstretched):
waist 20 1/2" (easily stretches to 28")
hips 28"
rise 19"
inseam 11"
leg 15" around
**Note: Due to the stretchiness of the garter stitch, these longies will get a bit longer in the rise and inseam with wear.

This wool gets softer every time it's washed and lanolized. The casing for the elastic is left open so that you can easily adjust the elastic for a smaller waist. The garter stitch is very stretchy. The rise and inseam length will both relax and get longer. The inseam will likely relax with wear to about an inch longer than it is now.

They have been washed and lanolized and are ready to wear!

I think this color is pretty gender neutral. There a small bits of purple, but I don't think they look too girlie. The purple is pretty subtle.

How can you win these longies?

I will randomly choose a winner next Tuesday.
1)Leave me a comment for one entry into the drawing. (only one comment counts for the drawing.)
2)You can earn additional entries by following my blog~ either through blogger or RSS feed of your choice. Just let me know you've followed me in your comment.
3) You can earn an additional entry by blogging about the giveaway. Leave the link in your comment.
4) Sign up for my newsletter, The Brave Creative. Let me know this in your comment as well.
5)I am running the giveaway in conjunction with my other blog. You can earn additional entries through that blog as well~ commenting there, following, blogging, etc.

The giveaway will run through the end of the day on Monday, January 17, 2011. I will randomly choose on Tuesday, the 18th. I will announce the winner that day.

Be sure that you leave an email addy or blog address that I can email you from. I need some way to contact you to let you know that you have won.

Let the fun begin!

I was featured on Chalk Talk!

2011-01-10T15:44:00.002-05:00

My creative and multi-talented friend, Maureen, blogs over at Spell Outloud. She is a fellow homeschooler and regularly posts lots of hands-on activities for preschoolers and toddlers. She has some great stuff!

Maureen sometimes interviews people on her blog. It's a feature she calls "Chalk Talk." She's had quite a variety of topics for her interviews, and they are always interesting. Well, this weekend Maureen interviewed me for Chalk Talk! We talked a bit about yarn~ my knitting business to be exact.

Click the button below to read our interview. I'd love it if you would come back and leave me a comment. I'd love to hear what you think of the interview!

Tuesday I will be posting an unbelievable giveaway. Be sure you come back to check it out!

Be brave, be creative~

Connie

Chain Stitch Drawstring, Or How to make a crochet chain

2011-01-03T23:40:00.005-05:00

This is part of a series of drawstring tutorials. These tutorials are from the Appendixes of my soaker patterns. My hope is that these tutorials will help you learn a few new skills and help you have some fun making a variety of drawstrings.

Crochet chain stitch is a very useful skill to learn. A long chain stitch makes a wonderful (and quick) drawstring for wool soakers. Chain stitch is a wonderful way to work a provisional cast-on in knitting. There are so many other uses for learning the chain stitch. I thought that I would take a minute to show you how to work this simple stitch.

Here's how I work a crochet chain for a drawstring:

Even if you don’t crochet, the chain stitch is relatively simple to do. When working with worsted weight wool, I usually use a size G(4mm), H(5mm), or I(5.5mm) hook. It really depends on how tight you want the chain. The bigger the hook, the looser and softer the drawstring will feel. You can also make the chain by using 2 strands of yarn held together (and a size I). This makes your drawstring thicker and more cushy.

You will start with a slip knot. There are lots of ways to make a slip knot. I will show you how I do it. Any way that you want to make a slip knot is just fine.

1)Make a loop around your first 2 fingers with the end on the right, finger tips pointing upward.

2)Now turn your hand to point your finger tips downward.

3)Hold the intersection of all the strands of yarn, and remove your fingers.

4)Put the loop on the left (in back) through the loop on the right (in front).

5)Pull the loop all the way through. Make sure to hold onto the end of the yarn and the yarn tail as you pull.

6)Keep pulling the loop until the knot is snug (not as tight as you can get it).

7)Put the crochet hook into the loop. Now you can pull on the working yarn to snug the loop around the hook-- not too tight.

8)Go under the working yarn, grab the yarn with the hook (yarn over), and turn the hook toward you so that it’s pointing downward.

9)Now pull the hook through the loop on the needle.

10)You just made a chain stitch! Now keep grabbing the yarn and pulling it through until you have the length or number of chain stitches that you need.

11)This is how your chain will look. It goes really fast!

This is a chain stitch drawstring made with 2 strands of yarn. I normally use a size I hook when I make this type of drawstring.

12)When you reach the desired length, cut the yarn and pull the end through the last loop. Pull tight. (Fasten off.)

I like to put a knot on each end to finish it off. It also helps to keep the drawstring from slipping through the waistband.

Cutie Bahootie

2010-12-23T15:44:00.000-05:00

To continue the pattern parade, I would like to introduce you to my new soaker pattern. Cutie Bahootie!

For about 2 years now I have had people asking me to write a soaker pattern. These were customers who had knit my longies and bloomers patterns. They loved the fit of my other patterns and wanted a soaker with the same fit. I finally caved... er, uh... consented. The result is Cutie Bahootie.

Cutie Bahootie. That says it all, doesn’t it? What could be cuter than a little cloth diaper bum in this soaker?!

Cutie Bahootie is knit in the round from the top down. It employs short rows throughout the back to give plenty of room for the cloth diaper. All waist and hip shaping is done with changes in needle size~ so no increases or mistakes in stitch count!

The pattern has instructions for 4 waistbands, 4 ruffles for the bum, 4 leg cuff options. The Customizable Option walks you step by step through knitting to your baby’s measurements or to your own gauge. The pattern also includes a 32 page Appendix full of tutorials for all pattern techniques. You only need to know basic knitting skills! It also teaches you 4 types of drawstrings!

Written in 6 sizes~ Newborn, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, and Toddler. Simple instructions to customize size~ especially helpful for toddlers/XXL.

54-page pattern includes these features:

Knit in-the-round
Top-down construction
Ribbed, ribbed with eyelets, encased elastic, and encased
drawstring waistbands
Shaping above waist achieved with changes in needle size
Trim fit in the waist and above hips
High rise
Employs short rows throughout entire back of pants
No grafting necessary~ option to graft or not to graft
4 different leg cuffs
4 different ruffles for the bum
Instructions for 4 different drawstrings
Pattern employs charts for sizing~ no more confusion over which number for which size
Option to customize~ especially helpful for toddlers/XXL
Pattern support
Appendix with pictorial instructions for pattern techniques

Gauge:
5 stitches per inch, and approximately 6 rows per inch (Row gauge is not as important. You
can always just measure as you go.)

Materials:

100% wool yarn, worsted weight
US 7 (4.5mm) 16” circular knitting needle or size that obtains gauge
US 5 (3.75mm) 16” circular needle or 2 sizes smaller than gauge needle
US 3 (3.25mm) 16” circular needle or 4 sizes smaller than gauge needle (for ribbed waist only)
US 7 (4.5mm) Double point needles (DPNs) or size that obtains gauge (for grafting only)
US 5 (3.75mm) Double point needles or 2 sizes smaller than gauge needle (for cuffs)
3 stitch markers, each different from the others is helpful but need at least one distinctive for the round
marker (optional, 2 more for bum ruffles)
Darning (tapestry) needle
stitch holder, if you wish (though not necessary)
.75” elastic, for encased elastic waistband only
Size H (5mm) crochet hook, optional (for provisional cast-on and three-needle bind-off)

For size chart and approximate yardage needed, see DHC Knits.

Simple Ruffle

Garter Ruffle

Bell Ruffle

Frilly Ruffle

TO DOWNLOAD

This 54-page PDF file contains instructions for knitting your own Cutie Bahootie.

$5.95 USD

add to cart

DaisyHead Bloomers

2010-12-22T23:45:00.004-05:00

When my youngest daughter was born, I fell in love with wool soakers. What a great diaper cover! I had used cloth with all of my other children, but had not known that you could hand knit or crochet wool covers. I gave it a try and loved using wool.

I wanted to make some cute little ruffled bloomers to put under her little dresses. However, I couldn't find a pattern anywhere. Other ruffly items could be found but no bloomers. So I set out on a quest to write a pattern myself. The pattern that resulted is DaisyHead Bloomers.

Bloomers was my second soaker pattern and was pretty bare bones. I decided that she needed a makeover. Over a year later (yes, a year!), it is here! DaisyHead Bloomers is now the complete package! She now has several waistband options and a whooping 18 leg finishes! It also has a giant appendix that includes tutorials for all pattern techniques with pictures large enough to really see what's happening on the needles. An advanced beginner or brave beginner could tackle this pattern. Keeping reading to see what else you get with this pattern!

DaisyHead Bloomers is knit in the round from the top down. It offers a trim fit through the waist and above hips. It employs short rows throughout the back to give plenty of room for the cloth diaper. All waist and hip shaping is done with changes in needle size~ so no increases or mistakes in stitch count! Bloomers are great for cloth diapers or over disposables.

DaisyHead Bloomers has a garter stitch gusset for extra room and protection in the wet zone. It has 6 different leg ruffles and 4 different ruffles for the bum.

The pattern has instructions for 4 waistbands. The Customizable Option walks you step by step through knitting to your baby’s measurements or to your own gauge. The pattern also includes a 32 page Appendix full of tutorials for all pattern techniques. You only need to know basic knitting skills! It also teaches you 4 types of drawstrings!

Bell Ruffle

Frilly Ruffle

Short & Simple Ruffle

Long & Simple Ruffle

Lacy Ruffle

Full, Lacy Ruffle

Written in sizes Newborn, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, and Toddler. Also includes step by step instructions for customizing fit for your baby and for your gauge.

59 page pattern includes these features:
Knit in-the-round
Top-down construction
Ribbed, ribbed with eyelets, encased elastic, and encased
drawstring waistbands
Shaping above waist achieved with changes in needle size
Trim fit in the waist and above hips
High rise
Employs short rows throughout entire back of pants
Gusset to give more room in crotch for diaper
Gusset worked in garter stitch for more protection against wetness
No grafting necessary~ option to graft or not to graft
6 leg ruffles4 ruffles for bum
Instructions for 4 types of drawstrings
Pattern employs charts for sizing~no more confusion over which number for which size
Option to customize~ especially helpful for toddlers/XXL
Pattern support
Appendix with pictorial instructions of pattern techniques

Gauge:
5 stitches per inch, and approximately 6 rows per inch (Row gauge is not as important. You
can always just measure as you go.)

Materials:
100% wool yarn, worsted weight
US 7(4.5mm) 16” circular knitting needle or size that obtains gauge
US 5(3.75mm) 16” circular needle or 2 sizes smaller than gauge needle
US 3(3.25mm) 16” circular needle or 4 sizes smaller than gauge needle
US 7(4.5mm) Double point needles (DPNs) or size that obtains gauge
US 3(3.25mm) Double point needles (DPNs) or 4 sizes smaller than gauge needle
4 stitch markers, each different from the others is helpful but need at least one distinctive for the round
marker (optional, 2 more for bum ruffles)
darning needle
stitch holder, if you wish (though not necessary)
.75” elastic, for encased elastic waistband only
Size H (5mm) crochet hook, optional (for provisional cast-on and three-needle bind-off)

For size chart and approximate yardage needed, see DHC Knits.

TO DOWNLOAD

This 59-page PDF file contains instructions for knitting your own Bloomers.

$6.95 USD

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DaisyHead Delight

2010-12-22T23:30:00.005-05:00

DaisyHead Delight was my first soaker pattern. It was created out of a desire to make soakers for my baby girl, as well as to sell longies and shorties to others. That's why I decided to name this pattern after my girl. Her name means delight. She is my delight. Thus, DaisyHead Delight came into being.

Delight was my first pattern and was pretty bare bones. I decided that she needed a makeover. Over a year later (yes, a year!), it is here! DaisyHead Delight is now the complete package! She now has several waistband options and a whopping 18 leg finishes! It also has a giant appendix that includes tutorials for all pattern techniques with pictures large enough to really see what's happening on the needles. An advanced beginner or brave beginner could tackle this pattern. Keeping reading to see what else you get with this pattern!

DaisyHead Delight is knit in the round from the top down. It offers a trim fit through the waist and above hips. It employs short rows throughout the back to give plenty of room for the cloth diaper. All waist and hip shaping is done with changes in needle size~ so no increases or mistakes in stitch count!

DaisyHead Delight has a garter stitch gusset for extra room and protection in the wet zone. It has 2 different leg widths. And there are 18 different leg finishes, 11 of which are gender neutral!

The pattern has instructions for 4 waistbands and 4 ruffles for the bum. The Customizable Option walks you step by step through knitting to your baby’s measurements or to your own gauge. The pattern also includes a 32 page Appendix full of tutorials for all pattern techniques. You only need to know basic knitting skills! It also teaches you 4 types of drawstrings!

Written in sizes Newborn, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, and Toddler. Also includes step by step instructions for customizing fit for your baby and for your gauge.

62 page pattern includes these features:

Knit in-the-round
Top-down construction
Ribbed, ribbed with eyelets, encased elastic, and encased drawstring waistbands
Shaping above waist achieved with changes in needle size
Trim fit in the waist and above hips
High rise
Employs short rows throughout entire back of pants
Gusset to give more room in crotch for diaper
Gusset worked in garter stitch for more protection against wetness
No grafting necessary~ option to graft or not to graft
2 leg widths
18 leg finishes
4 ruffles for bum
Instructions for 4 types of drawstrings
Pattern employs charts for sizing~ no more confusion over which number for which size
Option to customize~ especially helpful for toddlers/XXL
Pattern support
Appendix with pictorial instructions of pattern techniques

Gauge:
5 stitches per inch, and approximately 6 rows per inch (Row gauge is not as important. You
can always just measure as you go.)

Materials:
100% wool yarn, worsted weight
US 7(4.5mm) 16” circular knitting needle or size that obtains gauge
US 5(3.75mm) 16” circular needle or 2 sizes smaller than gauge needle
US 3(3.25mm) 16” circular needle or 4 sizes smaller than gauge needle
US 7(4.5mm) Double point needles (DPNs) or size that obtains gauge
4 stitch markers, each different from the others is helpful but need at least one distinctive for the round
marker (optional, 2 more for bum ruffles)
darning needle
stitch holder, if you wish (though not necessary)
.75” elastic, for encased elastic waistband only
Size H (5mm) crochet hook, optional (for provisional cast-on and three-needle bind-off)

For size chart and approximate yardage needed, see DHC Knits.

TO DOWNLOAD

This 62-page PDF file contains instructions for knitting your own Delight longies or shorties.

$6.95 USD

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Simon Says

2010-12-22T23:13:00.001-05:00

Simon Says you need to knit this hat!

This ribbed hat is a very simple, quick knit. The k2p2 ribbing runs from top to bottom. You can’t get much more simple than that! You can knit it all in one color, knit stripes, knit the body in one color and the crown in another color… your imagination is your only limit. Put a pom pom on top if you’d like!

One pattern for the whole family! Written for sizes from premie through adult. Choose from beanie or toque. Something for everyone!

Simon Says is perfect for children because it will fit for a long time! The k2p2 ribbing throughout gives this hat the ability to cinch in for a snug fit and to also stretch willingly for long wear. It is worked in the round from the brim to the crown.

Materials:
worsted weight wool or wool blend (I prefer Knit Picks Wool of the Andes or Swish Worsted)
US 7(4.5mm) 16” circular knitting needle or size that obtains gauge
US 7(4.5mm) Double point needles (DPNs) or size that obtains gauge
US 5(3.75mm) 16” circular needle or 2 sizes smaller than gauge needle, optional
Tapestry or yarn needle

Simon Says can be worked with worsted weight yarn or with 2 strands of sport weight yarn held together. Just be sure that you use a fiber that has a little bit of spring in it, and you will be ready for action!
The Infant size fits from around newborn thru 18 months. The Toddler size fits from around 2T thru 4T. The Child size fits from around 4T thru 10 years old.

Infant: 12-15”
Toddler: 16-18”
Child: 18-20”
Small Adult: 20-22”
Large Adult: 22-24”

Blue- Toddler beanie; Pink & green- Child beanie;
Fuchsia & brown- Small Adult beanie; Gray- Large
Adult beanie; Pale pink- Infant toque; Green- Infant
toque; Brown, red, & yellow- Small Adult toque

TO DOWNLOAD

This 4-page PDF file contains instructions for knitting your own Simon Says.

$2.95 USD

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