tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72418962524748585432024-03-13T00:31:43.785-07:00Illuminate CrochetSarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11936943387787778369noreply@blogger.comBlogger469125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-10328262799602501392018-05-11T11:35:00.001-07:002018-05-11T11:35:52.439-07:00A Yarn Story in Bath, EnglandIf you've been <a href="https://www.instagram.com/illuminatecrochet/">following my Instagram account</a>, you know that I recently took a trip to London and Paris. The trip was a rather last-minute affair made possible by my best friend, Alex. His company sent him to London for work, and he paid my plane fare so that I could come along. Since I didn't have to pay for airfare or hotel, I was able to see and do some amazing things. Thanks, Alex! I would not have been able to travel at this time in my life without his support. <br />
<br />
I'll only be focusing on one facet of my trip here on this blog. Check my Instagram for more pictures!<br />
<br />
One of the amazing things I did was take a day trip out of London and around England. On that day trip, I ended up in Bath. The tour bus dropped us off in a fairly touristy area of bath, right next to a famous abbey and the baths that were built during the Roman takeover of the area.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VbkUX7CtFkA/WvXcTHGtFII/AAAAAAAADZE/1hXbTVQM2RcPX8yoqM5hW8IwMgl7c5dlwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VbkUX7CtFkA/WvXcTHGtFII/AAAAAAAADZE/1hXbTVQM2RcPX8yoqM5hW8IwMgl7c5dlwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4056.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cE28vboKviA/WvXcfZqHSvI/AAAAAAAADZI/6yuzwPMR-agA6mg0nmgLB4ijA2tFnQNgwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cE28vboKviA/WvXcfZqHSvI/AAAAAAAADZI/6yuzwPMR-agA6mg0nmgLB4ijA2tFnQNgwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4058.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The Roman baths were fairly expensive to enter, so I decided to pass. I did take a nice tour of the abbey. It was interesting to see the beautiful carvings inside.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dz15llZclsc/WvXczaPaHmI/AAAAAAAADZU/DT1mEo9PlrwGrRKRJRgohcsoYCy7YLGWwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dz15llZclsc/WvXczaPaHmI/AAAAAAAADZU/DT1mEo9PlrwGrRKRJRgohcsoYCy7YLGWwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4067.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
We had limited time in Bath, so many folks from my tour group decided to stay in the touristy area. For both better and worse, I'm a rather adventurous person. I wanted to see more of what Bath was like away from the hubbub. And so, despite the very real possibility of accidentally getting lost and/or missing my tour's departure, I wandered off.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iYUEE16YujE/WvXdnOrzFkI/AAAAAAAADZg/7S24Iyg8TiE2XsLAeXUwkSl6xuX8qBhtACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iYUEE16YujE/WvXdnOrzFkI/AAAAAAAADZg/7S24Iyg8TiE2XsLAeXUwkSl6xuX8qBhtACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4085.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Looking around at all of the buildings was amazing. They are all made out of the same kind of stone, even the houses. Houses in the United States are often made out of wood, or metal and concrete in the case of downtown Seattle apartments. I had never seen so many stone buildings all together.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DjmiDA73eg8/WvXerM1UX7I/AAAAAAAADZs/xxeFEhlF8aEW86OuPkXLZSU9vzy2gOUvgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DjmiDA73eg8/WvXerM1UX7I/AAAAAAAADZs/xxeFEhlF8aEW86OuPkXLZSU9vzy2gOUvgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4077.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
I decided that I needed a destination. Hmm... restaurant? No, not enough time. Not enough time to go through a Jane Austen tour, either (besides, she hated Bath). Figuratively crossing my fingers, I typed "yarn store" into Google Maps.<br />
<br />
Wouldn't you know it... there was a yarn store in walking distance! I immediately began hoofing it up the hill.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NApO_fJ_73A/WvXfcVXccjI/AAAAAAAADZ0/ZQ2soe6bJkwyuzr1TxjIZg7J7x9iF7pgQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NApO_fJ_73A/WvXfcVXccjI/AAAAAAAADZ0/ZQ2soe6bJkwyuzr1TxjIZg7J7x9iF7pgQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4078.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Thus, I came upon an English yarn store! I was excited to go inside and see how it would compare to the yarn stores I'm familiar with.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zkdABg4J_pA/WvXf2AePhzI/AAAAAAAADZ8/acBUybSr1f4RIZHsWf_Nm4HtJ4DBoHP5ACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zkdABg4J_pA/WvXf2AePhzI/AAAAAAAADZ8/acBUybSr1f4RIZHsWf_Nm4HtJ4DBoHP5ACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4079.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cLqnWlnhfuw/WvXf9gBTsvI/AAAAAAAADaA/nIeqnwWr260aifetwLnMmhe2G-moW4zdgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cLqnWlnhfuw/WvXf9gBTsvI/AAAAAAAADaA/nIeqnwWr260aifetwLnMmhe2G-moW4zdgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4080.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5DygjlIEn-U/WvXgFGe7WGI/AAAAAAAADaE/uIDmzmCpMCUZKY0-lCos8p2WVWaVQ598QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5DygjlIEn-U/WvXgFGe7WGI/AAAAAAAADaE/uIDmzmCpMCUZKY0-lCos8p2WVWaVQ598QCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4081.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
The store was very similar to those in Seattle. They even had some of the same local brands that I am familiar with, brands from Oregon and Washington! The women running the shop were very friendly. I found out that one of them was originally from Portland, Oregon. It's a small world after all!<br />
<br />
I didn't have much room in my luggage for souvenirs, seeing as I had only brought a backpack and a purse with me. However, I wanted to get a small gift for my cat sitter, <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/designers/ariel-altaras">Ariel of Stariel Knits</a>. Here is what I chose: a mini-skein that I could squish in somewhere.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_6CWQLLsRuY/WvXhS8sDe-I/AAAAAAAADaY/lPCWROutAVgdCJn03fF0wn9FtTE4-2t-QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1163" height="562" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_6CWQLLsRuY/WvXhS8sDe-I/AAAAAAAADaY/lPCWROutAVgdCJn03fF0wn9FtTE4-2t-QCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4181.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
After leaving the store, I realized that I needed to hurry down the hill. I walked quickly and took a few photos as I went.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tCAwM9WKbik/WvXhvzbhQxI/AAAAAAAADag/W9teOPxHi60qTvpKdxLu8vL14PsPEAgPQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tCAwM9WKbik/WvXhvzbhQxI/AAAAAAAADag/W9teOPxHi60qTvpKdxLu8vL14PsPEAgPQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4094.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Happily, I managed to get to my tour bus on time! Traveling abroad for the first time was a truly amazing experience. I will be able to look back on it with joy for the rest of my life. I even managed to go to a yarn store! Life can be so good.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OvWFi0biIAI/WvXiV7nQXTI/AAAAAAAADas/hrgk6IYcA6cKP0RNbwLziQeeMPX4QMgpwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OvWFi0biIAI/WvXiV7nQXTI/AAAAAAAADas/hrgk6IYcA6cKP0RNbwLziQeeMPX4QMgpwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4099.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-68190414560346271062018-04-08T13:36:00.000-07:002018-04-08T13:39:53.981-07:00Review: Synchrony Yarn from Brown Sheep CompanyToday, I will be reviewing <a href="http://www.brownsheep.com/yarns/synchrony/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=sharpspring&sslid=M7E0NjawNDUzsDA2BQA&sseid=MzQzMzawMDQxNwUA&jobid=449a83b3-8cf6-4b75-881e-60c51b58d8cb">Synchrony, a DK weight yarn from Brown Sheep Company</a>. Disclaimer: I received this complimentary yarn in exchange for a
review. I am not being paid to write this review and everything shared
here is my real opinion. Big thanks go out to Brown Sheep Company for providing me with yarn to test.<br />
<br />
With the winter doldrums of the Pacific Northwest finally wearing off, I've been feeling pretty bold lately. I'm enjoying trying new things, being adventurous, and getting the most out of life. This new attitude has also been reflected in my yarn and pattern choices. When I was presented with the opportunity to try Synchrony yarn, I got really excited. All of the colors are so fun! It was really hard to decide which one I wanted. Also, I don't normally work with DK weight yarn. I've done a lot with bulky, worsted, and fingering weight yarns, but not DK. What a perfect opportunity to play with something new!<br />
<br />
Synchrony is <span style="font-weight: 400;">60% Pima Cotton and 40% Merino Wool. This makes it both sturdy and soft. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DC0BuB6IHTQ/Wsp33471HWI/AAAAAAAADYM/AUH6bXwOrEonKI-Sn9GoKuOBW4dlCw3ZACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DC0BuB6IHTQ/Wsp33471HWI/AAAAAAAADYM/AUH6bXwOrEonKI-Sn9GoKuOBW4dlCw3ZACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3697.JPG" width="532" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hlOdpHChO7U/Wsp38EUtK7I/AAAAAAAADYQ/4zW0wv8gPhYtjZhoubTLwPDTV3Icn_jVQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hlOdpHChO7U/Wsp38EUtK7I/AAAAAAAADYQ/4zW0wv8gPhYtjZhoubTLwPDTV3Icn_jVQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3698.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Since I've been in such a party mood lately, the colorway I settled on was Soiree. I totally love it! It is bold and exciting. Plus, I've always found marled yarn to be very attractive. The yarn wound very easily, with no snags.<br />
<br />
Crochet is my first love, so I decided to choose a crochet project for it. I finally settled on <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/fat-bag-2">Fat Bag</a>, a free pattern by Samanta Maragno. The original pattern makes a large bag. However, I'm being bold! I decided to try the pattern with DK and a smaller hook in the hopes of making a small purse. It went wonderfully! Even though the direction of the twist made the plies come apart a little while I crocheted, I had no issues with the hook catching. It was very smooth and enjoyable to work with. I think the bag turned out super hip! The pooling is very even, producing a modern finished item.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pufVQ0LHJOM/Wsp7IYI1UxI/AAAAAAAADYg/nBAdMapoauM2WqeZr0JE5G0bjGJIA0CvwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="823" height="596" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pufVQ0LHJOM/Wsp7IYI1UxI/AAAAAAAADYg/nBAdMapoauM2WqeZr0JE5G0bjGJIA0CvwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3752.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BFQUxwHZjwc/Wsp7OGmY6cI/AAAAAAAADYk/yx1CTrkvbQ4MOdsanX0-t8yfWUvbCKsbgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3753.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BFQUxwHZjwc/Wsp7OGmY6cI/AAAAAAAADYk/yx1CTrkvbQ4MOdsanX0-t8yfWUvbCKsbgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3753.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This yarn is awesome and I'd happily work with it again. It took so much less yarn to make my purse than I expected, so I have a whole hank left. I am currently knitting with it, which is just as pleasant as crocheting with it was.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5_ssFsAIi_A/Wsp7vRtpraI/AAAAAAAADYw/AsP6p97ppuMoZrERPykj0R9SGnA7koYSQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5_ssFsAIi_A/Wsp7vRtpraI/AAAAAAAADYw/AsP6p97ppuMoZrERPykj0R9SGnA7koYSQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3755.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I'll have to share my improvised knit bag with you when it is complete. In the meantime, here is some info on Synchrony and Brown Sheep Company:<br />
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Brown Sheep yarns is a family-owned and operated company located in Mitchell, Nebraska. </span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://link.mx-sender-3fc.com/wf/click?upn%3DbzGnLj5RVMuMQWws9EPFlqhmUN1CtpTQQmzQJVwwORdw280BluadEtAfXitbP4bsdW9qaeDcM6vN3i6PaIMI0p3CiKgwMlgrXTkG3B0HKOC4tigbYnZAMKFixZlOtxZcEMb4Req2a6gYuiZZ-2BbBzvYUGt0WRyq5pDZwHS7oy5XVibHVIiNl3juOiVVATxQ-2Ff3YS-2FxsVq2RuX1aF89AwLr9oCuytXMgsuWEVkuE3JUZj-2FN29VQczosuYXu2zdF4R5_dEJh2QhB-2BBCuVxS-2B8IQFJoifV-2FaKAWEfItsWTgoXWeuV-2Brjm02DzyLAgF9-2FmUcG2YDT7PI1zGy-2FmIwRC6bNfUlIX1GBrzfkOW13X7hjefaY0VkRr21k4lhT0focZuXQd5A-2FkUshH-2F3zBS-2FJIV14t21spkZfRP5gAuSr2-2BAZrCloVNCDGyf5pTPqKslJFCXF7rcJa9uhRp1vQdGor41KtjRD3kGGk-2BBwQ3GNMBzYAz4lyfN5TQKMAP6NiAVYOayKfzJ-2BHNx5nMrnn4Bgwcz-2BZwQuIk-2BRT9J-2BO58XbmMLpZci33WdvQy9-2B-2B-2BPQQQk1Ro-2BzDGIgp9HtU-2BoCcqfYnusDYrvtxYhNfJ8FYghgBkAe-2BP-2B0rC91bEeDpdPSx4aUvPgXJJUcOHnGi7rma5JIQHh5MA3ai7ygKrSp91mcSdsUps8bzQZlQBPTR3cLtoxNjbN4&source=gmail&ust=1523304323692000&usg=AFQjCNE1jEcTqGY4SFEYwbKOU-zhPlSjdw" href="http://link.mx-sender-3fc.com/wf/click?upn=bzGnLj5RVMuMQWws9EPFlqhmUN1CtpTQQmzQJVwwORdw280BluadEtAfXitbP4bsdW9qaeDcM6vN3i6PaIMI0p3CiKgwMlgrXTkG3B0HKOC4tigbYnZAMKFixZlOtxZcEMb4Req2a6gYuiZZ-2BbBzvYUGt0WRyq5pDZwHS7oy5XVibHVIiNl3juOiVVATxQ-2Ff3YS-2FxsVq2RuX1aF89AwLr9oCuytXMgsuWEVkuE3JUZj-2FN29VQczosuYXu2zdF4R5_dEJh2QhB-2BBCuVxS-2B8IQFJoifV-2FaKAWEfItsWTgoXWeuV-2Brjm02DzyLAgF9-2FmUcG2YDT7PI1zGy-2FmIwRC6bNfUlIX1GBrzfkOW13X7hjefaY0VkRr21k4lhT0focZuXQd5A-2FkUshH-2F3zBS-2FJIV14t21spkZfRP5gAuSr2-2BAZrCloVNCDGyf5pTPqKslJFCXF7rcJa9uhRp1vQdGor41KtjRD3kGGk-2BBwQ3GNMBzYAz4lyfN5TQKMAP6NiAVYOayKfzJ-2BHNx5nMrnn4Bgwcz-2BZwQuIk-2BRT9J-2BO58XbmMLpZci33WdvQy9-2B-2B-2BPQQQk1Ro-2BzDGIgp9HtU-2BoCcqfYnusDYrvtxYhNfJ8FYghgBkAe-2BP-2B0rC91bEeDpdPSx4aUvPgXJJUcOHnGi7rma5JIQHh5MA3ai7ygKrSp91mcSdsUps8bzQZlQBPTR3cLtoxNjbN4" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Synchrony</a> blends pima cotton and merino to create a springy yet sturdy yarn. </span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">In DK weight, Synchrony pairs perfectly with our <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://link.mx-sender-3fc.com/wf/click?upn%3DbzGnLj5RVMuMQWws9EPFlqhmUN1CtpTQQmzQJVwwORfPu7DS3bZmA0dDHL5-2FT9-2FWqwGuhljauChvNTBaWZ6xXF-2FuRSBlhYV0VP2jLlUiAyaPqBhSCDX7udYPbKlvUK3eqTCO5ZHIj9r-2B62qrF7P-2Ff0X1gX5Y9bxLRPp2P6Qv2i4G1LdZDXhA6ztFvN1-2BX2daKipo6Z3mooGTVHs4YjeFK2-2BgO5gyX-2Ftqhlg2pwCgFYKE9A99Ypc-2FSqBl2E4JanQfvlUIfHoeMBL9bQGGCs1txQ-3D-3D_dEJh2QhB-2BBCuVxS-2B8IQFJoifV-2FaKAWEfItsWTgoXWeuV-2Brjm02DzyLAgF9-2FmUcG2YDT7PI1zGy-2FmIwRC6bNfUlIX1GBrzfkOW13X7hjefaY0VkRr21k4lhT0focZuXQd5A-2FkUshH-2F3zBS-2FJIV14t21spkZfRP5gAuSr2-2BAZrCloVNCDGyf5pTPqKslJFCXF7rcJa9uhRp1vQdGor41KtjRD3kGGk-2BBwQ3GNMBzYAz4lyfN5TQKMAP6NiAVYOayKfzJ-2BHNx5nMrnn4Bgwcz-2BZwQuIk-2BRT9J-2BO58XbmMLpZcirGNyNhzLgQgxPqwEk-2B6T9HYuQZi60ZW-2F4sSDzuvSolZeInb0IbksusJP4SjqtfDZFldpp4WHgOJHB3iofSM8392ZxmfsaD77n0x1uMG-2FuFfMUCnlwjANxIRtjfGgMcHjgv8478xyg8a2oxnyJo58B&source=gmail&ust=1523304323692000&usg=AFQjCNGjaZPKg_CJcWotyxS8P2P6DQEtKg" href="http://link.mx-sender-3fc.com/wf/click?upn=bzGnLj5RVMuMQWws9EPFlqhmUN1CtpTQQmzQJVwwORfPu7DS3bZmA0dDHL5-2FT9-2FWqwGuhljauChvNTBaWZ6xXF-2FuRSBlhYV0VP2jLlUiAyaPqBhSCDX7udYPbKlvUK3eqTCO5ZHIj9r-2B62qrF7P-2Ff0X1gX5Y9bxLRPp2P6Qv2i4G1LdZDXhA6ztFvN1-2BX2daKipo6Z3mooGTVHs4YjeFK2-2BgO5gyX-2Ftqhlg2pwCgFYKE9A99Ypc-2FSqBl2E4JanQfvlUIfHoeMBL9bQGGCs1txQ-3D-3D_dEJh2QhB-2BBCuVxS-2B8IQFJoifV-2FaKAWEfItsWTgoXWeuV-2Brjm02DzyLAgF9-2FmUcG2YDT7PI1zGy-2FmIwRC6bNfUlIX1GBrzfkOW13X7hjefaY0VkRr21k4lhT0focZuXQd5A-2FkUshH-2F3zBS-2FJIV14t21spkZfRP5gAuSr2-2BAZrCloVNCDGyf5pTPqKslJFCXF7rcJa9uhRp1vQdGor41KtjRD3kGGk-2BBwQ3GNMBzYAz4lyfN5TQKMAP6NiAVYOayKfzJ-2BHNx5nMrnn4Bgwcz-2BZwQuIk-2BRT9J-2BO58XbmMLpZcirGNyNhzLgQgxPqwEk-2B6T9HYuQZi60ZW-2F4sSDzuvSolZeInb0IbksusJP4SjqtfDZFldpp4WHgOJHB3iofSM8392ZxmfsaD77n0x1uMG-2FuFfMUCnlwjANxIRtjfGgMcHjgv8478xyg8a2oxnyJo58B" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Cotton Fleece</a> and <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://link.mx-sender-3fc.com/wf/click?upn%3DbzGnLj5RVMuMQWws9EPFlqhmUN1CtpTQQmzQJVwwORd1GFpTbMZXrikKgBQYK-2BrpXqYQ9PvMx8ZyXBa7S-2FSooghW83euBZbIp-2BYyHRSmbmB0wLke-2FniFkQctxQYwqv1HxpZShcTbDUbNz52fvOhUQ6iklqyBeAO10BojE-2B4PlDV56lE-2Fm-2Bq1Ne6-2B9Bj5GGrSbZkK02FLL0ZBGDw-2BDsgQS7W5CpL2eObz6EJlIOdADCn7OWlAH4MrGXoLRC9E0ENV_dEJh2QhB-2BBCuVxS-2B8IQFJoifV-2FaKAWEfItsWTgoXWeuV-2Brjm02DzyLAgF9-2FmUcG2YDT7PI1zGy-2FmIwRC6bNfUlIX1GBrzfkOW13X7hjefaY0VkRr21k4lhT0focZuXQd5A-2FkUshH-2F3zBS-2FJIV14t21spkZfRP5gAuSr2-2BAZrCloVNCDGyf5pTPqKslJFCXF7rcJa9uhRp1vQdGor41KtjRD3kGGk-2BBwQ3GNMBzYAz4lyfN5TQKMAP6NiAVYOayKfzJ-2BHNx5nMrnn4Bgwcz-2BZwQuIk-2BRT9J-2BO58XbmMLpZchmEvvjjf2tw2RWg0ER933BS-2FJ6Zw4QE5T9ojyhMzk5QWTqjOfGNcYNehmJsI-2B4L1kyfBIe-2BVE8NoBnvqTJFrcxf5mWY-2B1DcmDl5y-2FU2uaxfXxEMtBrcd36yyZnTJywH5APFpYy8or4h35-2FxEP0uauw&source=gmail&ust=1523304323693000&usg=AFQjCNGkvMyuM4reEzgiypyAgPoHGn3lmQ" href="http://link.mx-sender-3fc.com/wf/click?upn=bzGnLj5RVMuMQWws9EPFlqhmUN1CtpTQQmzQJVwwORd1GFpTbMZXrikKgBQYK-2BrpXqYQ9PvMx8ZyXBa7S-2FSooghW83euBZbIp-2BYyHRSmbmB0wLke-2FniFkQctxQYwqv1HxpZShcTbDUbNz52fvOhUQ6iklqyBeAO10BojE-2B4PlDV56lE-2Fm-2Bq1Ne6-2B9Bj5GGrSbZkK02FLL0ZBGDw-2BDsgQS7W5CpL2eObz6EJlIOdADCn7OWlAH4MrGXoLRC9E0ENV_dEJh2QhB-2BBCuVxS-2B8IQFJoifV-2FaKAWEfItsWTgoXWeuV-2Brjm02DzyLAgF9-2FmUcG2YDT7PI1zGy-2FmIwRC6bNfUlIX1GBrzfkOW13X7hjefaY0VkRr21k4lhT0focZuXQd5A-2FkUshH-2F3zBS-2FJIV14t21spkZfRP5gAuSr2-2BAZrCloVNCDGyf5pTPqKslJFCXF7rcJa9uhRp1vQdGor41KtjRD3kGGk-2BBwQ3GNMBzYAz4lyfN5TQKMAP6NiAVYOayKfzJ-2BHNx5nMrnn4Bgwcz-2BZwQuIk-2BRT9J-2BO58XbmMLpZchmEvvjjf2tw2RWg0ER933BS-2FJ6Zw4QE5T9ojyhMzk5QWTqjOfGNcYNehmJsI-2B4L1kyfBIe-2BVE8NoBnvqTJFrcxf5mWY-2B1DcmDl5y-2FU2uaxfXxEMtBrcd36yyZnTJywH5APFpYy8or4h35-2FxEP0uauw" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Serendipity Tweed</a> yarns.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The mill employs sustainable practices such as recycling 70-90% of their daily waste water.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Brown
Sheep Company buys the majority of their wool directly from the growers
who have a variety of good wool breeds such as Corriedales,
Rambouillets, and Columbians.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Not only are Brown Sheep yarns
excellent for knitting and crocheting, they are great for weaving as
well! They also offer roving for handspinners. </li>
</ul>
Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-43109241463161959812018-03-18T20:27:00.000-07:002018-03-18T20:27:21.213-07:00Guest Post: Choosing and Using a Crochet Word of the Year with Kathryn VercilloKathryn Vercillo of Crochet Concupiscence is a crochet maven I've known for several years. I really appreciate her, and I've especially appreciated her encouragement and advice. Her passion comes through in everything she does. I'm honored to share this guest post, written by Kathryn. In it, she shares some unique advice for framing your crochet around a "word of the year." All text and photos below belong to Kathryn. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<div dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-4c26b4a6-3c42-fe2b-2b74-ed938796013c" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Choosing and Using a Crochet “Word of the Year”</span></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">By Kathryn Vercillo</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-4c26b4a6-3c3f-29ed-5f0d-1f499adfdcf5" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Some people choose a “word of the year” at the start of each new year to set an intention for the year. It is a terrific practice for giving focus to your life in the months ahead. Although it’s helpful to begin at the new year, choosing a word to work with is something that you can begin at any time of the year. Believe it or not, crochet can be a key part of working with your word for personal growth and development. In this post, you’ll learn a five-step process for choosing and using a word in crochet. Note that this presumes that you already know </span><a href="https://www.crochetconcupiscence.com/how-to-crochet/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0563c1; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">how to crochet</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> – at least the basic </span><a href="https://www.crochetconcupiscence.com/glossary-of-crochet-stitches/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0563c1; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">crochet stitches</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> – but that you don’t have to have any advanced crochet skills for this exercise. </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Step One: Choosing a Word</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There are many different approaches to choosing your word for the year. Personally, I do a lot of mulling over and journaling but also just let my mind wander and see what sticks. The word has to excite me enough that I think I'll want to commit a year to its use in my life, and I know in my gut immediately whether or not a word does that. That said, it's not at all unusual for me to select a word only to discover a week or two later that it's not the right word because there's a better one. For example, I thought for sure that my 2018 year was going to be "hope" but then later realized that instead I'm going to investigate (dis)comfort (technically two words, I know). If the right word comes at any time, stay open to recalibrating. </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The word you choose does not have to be a lofty, abstract ideal or virtue. We often feel like we must choose such words (hope, gratitude, change, peace, discipline). And that's fine, but sometimes such words can be too limiting, too intangible, too hard to live up to. It's perfectly wonderful to choose a more common word, a noun (butterfly, shell, home) or a place (Hawaii, Iceland) or a word inspired by craft itself (which we'll explore more below). You can take the choosing of your word very seriously but you don't have to; this is meant to make your life better and easier and more fun, providing a little structure for your own growth but not in arms rigid, painful, stressful way.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How does this relate to crochet? First, you may use meditative crochet to help you find your word of the year. That downtime in crafting, the time when your hands are stitching away and colors flowing into shapes, is great for bringing a keyword to the surface. For a more active connection to crochet, you could brainstorm a list of words that you think of related to crochet and to choose your word from this list. You might include words that are specific to the craft (stitch, treble, rows, yarn) and you might include words that the craft makes you think of (cozy, inspired, relaxed, skillful).</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Here is a list of words from the world of crochet that you might want to pull from in selecting your word of the year: Loop, hook, craft, granny, chain, single, double, treble, ripple, chevron, motif, doily, vintage, handmade, frog, skein, hank, hands, insert, pull through, popcorn, cluster, bullion, bobble, picot, edging, finish, weave, ends, join, cable, color, creativity, self-expression, arrange, lay flat, shell, Tunisian, basketweave, lace, stitch, row, round, gauge, freeform, art, decor, garment, toy, pattern, symbol, abbreviation, graph, increase, decrease, work in progress</span></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-roQJ6OIFlkE/Wq8st9HLEcI/AAAAAAAADXw/ek8bBZO6Itssnf3ZfqhD57hfIUd17IJbACLcBGAs/s1600/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="444" data-original-width="1172" height="242" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-roQJ6OIFlkE/Wq8st9HLEcI/AAAAAAAADXw/ek8bBZO6Itssnf3ZfqhD57hfIUd17IJbACLcBGAs/s640/1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Step Two: Investigating the Word</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Once you have a word, spend a few weeks or months really digging into that word. Get curious about it in every way that you can and explore those curiosities. Of course, you'll probably do some version of this throughout the year but it’s especially important to immerse yourself in it early on. During this time, I look up the definition of the word and its synonyms and find books with the word in its title or subject and ask others what they think of when they hear this word. I try to generate even more interest in the word within myself than I had as the year began by getting to really know this word.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">During your deep dive into the word, take some time to research the relationship of the word to crochet. Some Googling will get you started - pair your word with "crochet" or "yarn" or "craft" or "hobbies" to get inspired ideas about how your word might relate to crochet out there in the world. Ask crocheters that you know what the word makes them think of, particularly in regards to the craft. This year, I'll look at how crochet makes people comfortable / uncomfortable. Last year I learned about immersion dyeing of yarn and thought about the possibility of immersing myself in a crochet retreat. If you can't find strong links between your word and crochet, try synonyms of your word as well as tangents that your word makes you think about. </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Step Three: Going Inside</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the process of learning all about the word, I certainly do a lot of thinking about what the word means to me personally. The next step is to dig even deeper into this. How do I relate to the word? What has come up emotionally or tangibly as I've investigated this word? I journal more during this time, pondering it more, working with it more as it relates directly to my own experience. In 2017, my word was “immerse”. I thought that maybe during this time I would immerse myself in one of those sensory deprivation tanks; I didn't do that, but I did think about why I would or wouldn't do that. It's good to have goals for this project and you still benefit when you don't meet all of them.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Let’s bring this back to crochet. Again, you can use meditative crochet to dig deeper into the word’s meaning for you. You can work with affirmations in crochet, repeating the same mantra after each round, to reflect upon the word. Sometimes coming up with the affirmation is easy ("I immerse myself in the joy of crochet") but even when it's less obvious, it can be done ("My crochet is like a butterfly, powerful in its transformation.")</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Crochet can also be a way to lighten your exploration of the word and make it easier and more fun to work with. In journaling, you can only do so much with the word itself. Sometimes it feels too heavy and serious and frankly just confusing to ask yourself repeatedly, "what do I think about immersion today?" (or "when should I choose discomfort over comfort"). But you can tie the word with crochet and the investigation becomes a little simpler ... What do I feel about immersing myself in crochet? What are the benefits of doing so? It's easier to grasp onto this tangible thing and to work with it in small bites, through a yarn language that I understand. Pair your word with “crochet” and see where it takes you.</span></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VfxhCgaOJOU/Wq8tFg6wpiI/AAAAAAAADX0/wq2sXNrMTd4gVJOjntZwzbqb9N0tlV1BgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2018-03-11%2Bat%2B11.14.38%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="363" data-original-width="770" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VfxhCgaOJOU/Wq8tFg6wpiI/AAAAAAAADX0/wq2sXNrMTd4gVJOjntZwzbqb9N0tlV1BgCLcBGAs/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2018-03-11%2Bat%2B11.14.38%2BAM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Step Four: Reaching Outside</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Next, I try to turn the study of the word from inwards to outwards, and more specifically to how I can use this word to connect with others. In what ways does this word relate to my community, to my work, to my relationships, to the art I share? I didn't end up doing a whole lot with "immerse" in the third quarter of 2017, but one goal I had in mind was that when I went on a very special trip to my mom's hometown with her and my siblings, I would not take any work or other distractions and would fully </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">immerse</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> myself in being there with them. Doing so was invaluable.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Crochet can be a way to connect us with other people. We can gift our crochet, donate it to charity, crochet simply with the intention of another's benefit in mind. We can crochet to calm ourselves down and make ourselves happier with the secondary goal of improving our relationships with others, increasing our patience and kindness towards the world around us. We can crochet in ways that connect us to the people around us. These techniques can be combined with your word in creative ways as you think about how to use both to reach out to your community.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Find ways to relate your crochet to the word while linking it with your values. If I care about the environment, I learn about what yarn dye immersion is and how my choices around the purchasing of that fiber do and don't impact the environment. Or I think about how I can "immerse" myself in my crochet community. Or I immerse myself in a crochet project for a specific person. If your word is "butterfly", how does fiber processing impact their environment? Or what can we learn from the ways butterflies migrate to inform our own travels to other parts? Get creative, make links in your mind between the word, the craft and what matters most to you in relation to others outside of yourself. </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When sharing your crochet, as gifts or online or in art shows, add labels and captions and messages that incorporate your word. Ask yourself how your crochet and this word can strengthen your connections and act upon that.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Step Five: Reflection</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I don't like to put too much pressure on the word's power or importance. I like it to be a guiding point throughout the year but I don't ever want it to feel like an obligation. After researching and looking in and out, I have a good sense of the word, and I like to take time to just kind of relax with it and reflect upon it. Sometimes new things come up or I try things that I had thought of earlier in the year but didn't explore. Sometimes it's just a period of rest and rejuvenation and not paying too much attention to the word, letting it relax into the background while waiting for a new word to emerge to start the process over again.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We need time to rest with our word, and crochet is such a great way to rest. As your hands work with yarn, the loops come together into a fabric ... and the different stories and situations from throughout the year come together in a narrative in the mind. Crochet is the jumping off point for exploring our word and the tool that gives us space to reflect upon it.</span></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jCMzhgALL3I/Wq8taKwM4tI/AAAAAAAADX8/ujTfu-BOuX8rTpkeIAbYNsh4mcNCZorZwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2018-03-11%2Bat%2B11.14.16%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="483" data-original-width="1180" height="260" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jCMzhgALL3I/Wq8taKwM4tI/AAAAAAAADX8/ujTfu-BOuX8rTpkeIAbYNsh4mcNCZorZwCLcBGAs/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2018-03-11%2Bat%2B11.14.16%2BAM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This has been a guest post by Kathryn Vercillo, blogger at </span><a href="http://www.crochetconcupiscence.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0563c1; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Crochet Concupiscence</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> and author of several books, including Crochet Saved My Life and Mandalas for Marinke.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> <i>You can support her work with micro-donations through </i></span><i><a href="http://patreon.com/kvercillo" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0563c1; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Patreon</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></i></span></span></div>
Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-52717258687411735182018-03-10T11:58:00.000-08:002018-03-10T11:58:11.456-08:00Crochet Pattern: Redshift Infinity Scarf and Hat SetEven though spring is just around the corner, it's still pretty chilly out. If you're still feeling the need to cozy up, why not work up my new pattern? With both a scarf and hat included, it's a great deal! You can find it on <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/redshift-infinity-scarf-and-hat-set">Ravelry</a> and <a href="https://www.craftsy.com/crocheting/patterns/redshift-infinity-scarf-and-hat-set/572315">Craftsy</a>. <br />
<br />
<div class="notes markdown core_item_content__text_block">
Tall, cold, and cozy-loving ladies will love this extra long infinity
scarf and hat set. This squishy infinity scarf can be wrapped around
twice for a longer look and three times for a shorter look. You will
need four colors. The unique dance between texture and color make this
scarf red hot! A sweet hat completes the look. A light worsted yarn is
the best choice for this project. This pattern is gift-ready and smooth
to craft.<br />
<br />
This pattern is a part of the Cerebral Crochet Series. For your
entertainment, a few fun facts about redshift are included at the end of
the pattern.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oENJ3y3M6zE/WqQ4DzevcfI/AAAAAAAADXU/QDKZNoVg3zcoNaTLNACr9hltamlGfI3SgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oENJ3y3M6zE/WqQ4DzevcfI/AAAAAAAADXU/QDKZNoVg3zcoNaTLNACr9hltamlGfI3SgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3538.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OTESp9gnLCE/WqQ4STpcSiI/AAAAAAAADXY/lR-WRQ145AEN63qmtWvACRCRYq9BpTEqgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1015" data-original-width="1280" height="506" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OTESp9gnLCE/WqQ4STpcSiI/AAAAAAAADXY/lR-WRQ145AEN63qmtWvACRCRYq9BpTEqgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3536.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
</div>
Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-6629620985227971542018-02-19T16:05:00.002-08:002018-02-19T16:05:41.851-08:00Kangaroo Leather Experiment Yep, you read the title correctly... kangaroo leather. I ended up being given an entire bag of kangaroo leather scraps when I purchased a gift from a retail store near my workplace. The store sells traditional western apparel and gifts, including many items made of leather. Since leather is made from animal skin, there are many different types of animals that can be used. This includes kangaroos!<br />
<br />
Keep in mind that I have absolutely no experience working with leather. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LO3m5iCCemU/WotiPNa4HZI/AAAAAAAADWM/0dAM3s4uzt49w6DesS-0DA--uC5Hb_1twCLcBGAs/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LO3m5iCCemU/WotiPNa4HZI/AAAAAAAADWM/0dAM3s4uzt49w6DesS-0DA--uC5Hb_1twCLcBGAs/s640/1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
What to do with a bag of kangaroo leather? Well, I decided to experiment. I started by sorting the thin strips and the chunky pieces into separate piles. Ranna cat was fairly interested in this process, so I gave her a strip to play with.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4SVT0Krtc_Q/WotikCJZvqI/AAAAAAAADWQ/5wlVMtLtO80jEwPijfoQuElN4Uim24c_wCLcBGAs/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="937" data-original-width="883" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4SVT0Krtc_Q/WotikCJZvqI/AAAAAAAADWQ/5wlVMtLtO80jEwPijfoQuElN4Uim24c_wCLcBGAs/s640/2.JPG" width="602" /></a></div>
<br />
My hope was to crochet with the strips. I wanted to make a belt or a mat with my 8mm hook. However, working with the leather turned out to be way more difficult than I expected. It did not slide nicely on the hook, instead clinging to the hook and to itself. The results were... um... interesting. By interesting, I mean horrible.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-37HaYXASyvA/WotjORrw61I/AAAAAAAADWg/1S4zZy8HCj0h50RIBR17RgJ7DPN3CvZEgCLcBGAs/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-37HaYXASyvA/WotjORrw61I/AAAAAAAADWg/1S4zZy8HCj0h50RIBR17RgJ7DPN3CvZEgCLcBGAs/s640/3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Yikes. Maybe a second run would be better? I selected the thinnest leather strip that I could find and tried again with the loosest tension I could manage. The results were a bit better, but still sloppy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ftrsqi_nfv8/WotjiNzTZKI/AAAAAAAADWk/irq4w-NaRI8SBwxAg3KJXg7hid9C37nPACLcBGAs/s1600/4a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ftrsqi_nfv8/WotjiNzTZKI/AAAAAAAADWk/irq4w-NaRI8SBwxAg3KJXg7hid9C37nPACLcBGAs/s640/4a.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It seems as though leather strips are not ideal for crochet. At this point, it was time to go rogue and try other crafts. Braiding the leather looked decent.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--DxWDKq386A/Wotj_uVJOzI/AAAAAAAADWs/rjJ-46721RcYS_Gy0FffqkaEvmyfnJ_RgCLcBGAs/s1600/5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--DxWDKq386A/Wotj_uVJOzI/AAAAAAAADWs/rjJ-46721RcYS_Gy0FffqkaEvmyfnJ_RgCLcBGAs/s640/5.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Tying a bunch of knots in it didn't look too bad, either.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N1BOdEhhMfI/Wotk0v46ycI/AAAAAAAADW8/bKknG-Ywdg4WPubF6TbbiDaqkag8Ma-VQCLcBGAs/s1600/6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N1BOdEhhMfI/Wotk0v46ycI/AAAAAAAADW8/bKknG-Ywdg4WPubF6TbbiDaqkag8Ma-VQCLcBGAs/s640/6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Finally, I remembered all of the macrame hemp jewelry I used to make in high school. I tried out a simple style with the leather and it worked out well.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TO9wRUO1mOA/WotlL0EzPxI/AAAAAAAADXA/UmP4AHbvfzImqmtmrd1nie9cBYbJHuTuwCLcBGAs/s1600/8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TO9wRUO1mOA/WotlL0EzPxI/AAAAAAAADXA/UmP4AHbvfzImqmtmrd1nie9cBYbJHuTuwCLcBGAs/s640/8.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
By this time my hands smelled funny and I hadn't accomplished much. Thus, I ended my short and sad foray into the world of leather. I think I'll stick to what I know. Do you have any experience working with leather?Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-79430574633051105452018-02-10T23:31:00.000-08:002018-02-10T23:31:14.677-08:00Review: Eucalan Delicate Wash
Today, I'll be reviewing <a href="https://www.eucalan.com/find-eucalan?utm_medium=email&utm_source=sharpspring&sslid=M7E0NjawNDUzsDA2BQA&sseid=MzQzMTU0sTA0MwYA&jobid=285bede2-b0e3-4227-90b3-71c2a8c8b11c">Eucalan Delicate Wash</a>. Disclaimer: I received this complimentary product in exchange for a
review. I am not being paid to write this review and everything shared
here is my real opinion. I'm thankful for the opportunity to review this <a href="https://www.eucalan.com/products-1/accessories?utm_medium=email&utm_source=sharpspring&sslid=M7E0NjawNDUzsDA2BQA&sseid=MzQzMTU0sTA0MwYA&jobid=285bede2-b0e3-4227-90b3-71c2a8c8b11c">gift pack</a>. The package even included a handwritten note from the CEO of Eucalan. Super classy! The gift pack includes five scents: lavender, grapefruit, eucalyptus, jasmine, and unscented. They all smell very nice.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ULKiz-zCOQM/Wn_lRgsQJ-I/AAAAAAAADVI/T9ctXdV6tR0k-GDbbKYl0Ee6dtdYJFYTACLcBGAs/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ULKiz-zCOQM/Wn_lRgsQJ-I/AAAAAAAADVI/T9ctXdV6tR0k-GDbbKYl0Ee6dtdYJFYTACLcBGAs/s640/1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Wanna know a true story? I can be pretty lazy when it comes to 'proper' care of my clothes. Dry clean only? Well, I hope it doesn't get ruined when I toss it in the wash! Lay flat to dry? Guess I'm throwing it on the drying rack! Hand wash only? I hope the gentle cycle does the trick!<br />
<br />
This attitude also extends to my finished objects. I know that a diligent, mindful yarn-lover would take the time to care for their handmade items on a regular basis in the most thoughtful way possible. However, I am a super busy person. I have an intense full-time job, a boyfriend, wonderful friends, more chores than seem reasonable, a karaoke habit, my designing... Who has time to hand wash and block a scarf after each wear? Therefore, I think I am the perfect person to review this delicate wash. I'm not even a typical user... I'm perhaps a shade lazier.<br />
<br />
Check out my scrunched up, well-worn example items. I chose <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/fans-and-fishnets-scarf-and-hat-set">a crochet scarf</a> that is a silk wool blend, a woolen knit cowl, and a silk scarf by Laurel Burch that I never got around to having dry cleaned. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BvESQsGiLOs/Wn_lAzw_oRI/AAAAAAAADVE/dJxBKpIKMdM3EoJxY9LcXNrMWRO-Rpu4gCLcBGAs/s1600/before.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1389" data-original-width="1224" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BvESQsGiLOs/Wn_lAzw_oRI/AAAAAAAADVE/dJxBKpIKMdM3EoJxY9LcXNrMWRO-Rpu4gCLcBGAs/s640/before.JPG" width="561" /></a></div>
<br />
The directions on the bottle say to fill the basin with room temperature water and then soak your items for at least 15 minutes. Totally reasonable. However, lazy Sara watched the sink fill about halfway before putting the crochet and knitting in and then dumping in some wash. I didn't even measure how much I was using; I just eyeballed it. As a result, there were some suds when the wash met with the running water. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UGraL7gGqJ0/Wn_o539S0bI/AAAAAAAADVY/O4csG6IFpVkpVeUP_ashTs1MqKVQjuuSgCLcBGAs/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="1600" height="211" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UGraL7gGqJ0/Wn_o539S0bI/AAAAAAAADVY/O4csG6IFpVkpVeUP_ashTs1MqKVQjuuSgCLcBGAs/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
You know what? This delicate wash is awesome! I took a relaxed approach to its use and it still went wonderfully. The best part is that you don't even have to rinse it out! You just squeeze out your now nice-smelling items and lay them out (which for me means putting them on the drying rack). I spent the 15 minutes they were soaking doing some other chores, so it worked out really well. Super easy, even for a lazy person like me. Side note, don't you think the squeezed out objects look like pretty flowers sitting in the sink?<br />
<br />
When I washed the silk scarf, I was a little more regimented. I waited until the basin had filled before adding the wash, and I also measured it more carefully. I washed it separately so it wouldn't pick up any dye from the other two items.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UoCXt4DROHE/Wn_qVWUYVnI/AAAAAAAADVk/NLVa1GFtUB81H4u3krHtXqb733lS7LmTQCLcBGAs/s1600/silk.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="450" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UoCXt4DROHE/Wn_qVWUYVnI/AAAAAAAADVk/NLVa1GFtUB81H4u3krHtXqb733lS7LmTQCLcBGAs/s400/silk.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Again, so easy. No rinsing needed. I think the no-rinse aspect and the good scent selection really make this delicate wash a winner. Grapefruit is my favorite one.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XaQQ-BSVwx4/Wn_q0BO5tJI/AAAAAAAADVs/1Vtm0SrjokIoFbWtaW6bUpgo-xomJCrOwCLcBGAs/s1600/after.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="680" height="494" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XaQQ-BSVwx4/Wn_q0BO5tJI/AAAAAAAADVs/1Vtm0SrjokIoFbWtaW6bUpgo-xomJCrOwCLcBGAs/s640/after.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I had a great experience using this wash. It's so easy to use that I'll actually be willing to wash my items more often. In fact, I got inspired to use it to wash my bras. I hate washing my bras because I have to hand wash them, then rinse them, then hang them out. However, the no-rinse quality of the Eucalan wash meant I could just throw them in the washer on the soak setting and then spin them. So much less effort, and they came out clean. Sometimes regular detergent ends up making my bras itchy, but they weren't itchy this time. Win!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0qf64zdnsVo/Wn_r5mZm2pI/AAAAAAAADV4/au_FaSusQ2opd2TdgnKvTR9PYr6FolGSACLcBGAs/s1600/bra.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1313" data-original-width="1224" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0qf64zdnsVo/Wn_r5mZm2pI/AAAAAAAADV4/au_FaSusQ2opd2TdgnKvTR9PYr6FolGSACLcBGAs/s400/bra.JPG" width="372" /></a></div>
<br />
I wholeheartedly endorse Eucalan Delicate Wash. It's easy to use, smells nice, and gets the job done -- even though I was lazy about it. Before I tested it, I thought about sharing a bottle or two with my fiber friends... but now I think I'll keep it all to myself :3 Here are some additional details from Eucalan:<br />
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Eucalan Delicate wash is a delicate no-rinse wash that is perfect for caring for handmade items.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"><span>Our formula is non-toxic, pH neutral, biodegradable, and free of optical brighteners, phosphates, synthetic fragrance and dye.</span></span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"><span>Eucalan is scented with only quality essential oils (which are naturally antiseptic), in addition to natural/unscented.</span></span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"><span>The lanolin acts as a natural conditioner, keeping fibres supple and reducing static.</span></span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Eucalyptus and Lavender are naturally moth- and flea-repellent, making them an excellent choice for wool fibres and fabrics. </span></li>
</ul>
Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-82637041354994324432018-01-29T20:39:00.005-08:002018-01-29T20:40:04.231-08:00Fiber in the News: Incan Knotted RopeI recently came across this cool piece on the Inca's use of string in recording their world. It is so fascinating! <a href="https://www.npr.org/2017/12/28/574314933/harvard-student-cracks-incan-code">Have a listen or a read over at NPR</a>. What an interesting use of fiber! I can't share any pictures of the ropes here because I haven't gotten permission. However, if you do an image search of these ropes, you'll fine that they have a certain beauty to them. They remind me of sun rays.<br />
<br />
This is once of the more unique uses of fiber arts that I have seen. Have you seen any unique uses of yarn or string? Share in the comments!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IIYxts8oEXs/Wm_2qXtkuLI/AAAAAAAADUk/d6KHKjLBLnoDH6XkdJxah1CectxzFnSJgCLcBGAs/s1600/blerg.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="971" data-original-width="1600" height="242" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IIYxts8oEXs/Wm_2qXtkuLI/AAAAAAAADUk/d6KHKjLBLnoDH6XkdJxah1CectxzFnSJgCLcBGAs/s400/blerg.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-79533760686566358292018-01-08T00:20:00.001-08:002018-01-08T00:20:04.216-08:00Fun Crochet Finds at The Handmade Showroom in SeattleAround the holidays I went out to the movies with my boyfriend. I just love going to the movies! Being transported to another world for an hour or two is enjoyable in so many ways. Not to mention, I get to have my favorite food: Popcorn!<br />
<br />
One of the movie theaters in Seattle is located on the top floor of a mall. Since we were a bit early, we poked around the mall for a while. They happen to have a new store called The Handmade Showroom. Inside are cool objects that are all handmade in the Pacific Northwest. I found a bunch of crochet! Here is a sampling.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9_Ufktz02eQ/WlMpAQfPnpI/AAAAAAAADT8/86OrMFtR-DY6_wrBt9U0y_OFB7hc4ltawCLcBGAs/s1600/real1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="507" data-original-width="800" height="403" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9_Ufktz02eQ/WlMpAQfPnpI/AAAAAAAADT8/86OrMFtR-DY6_wrBt9U0y_OFB7hc4ltawCLcBGAs/s640/real1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9EqJ-XYhue8/WlMpGFvEimI/AAAAAAAADUA/2PbI_CiK0C4rLFtpr1oP5yZS3VX1Ng29QCLcBGAs/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="558" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9EqJ-XYhue8/WlMpGFvEimI/AAAAAAAADUA/2PbI_CiK0C4rLFtpr1oP5yZS3VX1Ng29QCLcBGAs/s640/1.JPG" width="594" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rZlROjOPd4A/WlMpKmXnPUI/AAAAAAAADUE/wUahkPs254gDPTHru8GI-GdvSVFlYc0EQCLcBGAs/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="513" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rZlROjOPd4A/WlMpKmXnPUI/AAAAAAAADUE/wUahkPs254gDPTHru8GI-GdvSVFlYc0EQCLcBGAs/s640/2.JPG" width="546" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ndd6MpNG-FY/WlMpPQ8o1eI/AAAAAAAADUI/fV3c3GaIeDQNTlptBJCFjzB7HABeBMYDQCLcBGAs/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ndd6MpNG-FY/WlMpPQ8o1eI/AAAAAAAADUI/fV3c3GaIeDQNTlptBJCFjzB7HABeBMYDQCLcBGAs/s640/3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3ZFBIvdjWO8/WlMpUgjZynI/AAAAAAAADUM/Qbnau1HlAUoOJW6FPlNKsOmWe738-CGUwCLcBGAs/s1600/4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="553" data-original-width="800" height="442" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3ZFBIvdjWO8/WlMpUgjZynI/AAAAAAAADUM/Qbnau1HlAUoOJW6FPlNKsOmWe738-CGUwCLcBGAs/s640/4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2nQkuSXTcKk/WlMpYuVWDlI/AAAAAAAADUQ/F7oXLWbYqo4JH6SgnCd8OQRpKxR3N5kWgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="654" height="586" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2nQkuSXTcKk/WlMpYuVWDlI/AAAAAAAADUQ/F7oXLWbYqo4JH6SgnCd8OQRpKxR3N5kWgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3506.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-53021968453263449592018-01-01T21:27:00.002-08:002018-01-01T21:27:17.726-08:00New Crochet Pattern: Weightless CowlIt's the first day of 2018. I can hardly believe it. The last couple of years have been very busy and very challenging in a number of ways. I hope that life calms down a bit for me and that I can be much more active in the fiber community this year. I want to kick off 2018 by releasing a new pattern right away. The Weightless Cowl is available on <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/weightless-cowl-2">Ravelry</a> and <a href="https://www.craftsy.com/crocheting/patterns/weightless-cowl/546442">Craftsy</a>. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XwfQRB25m5c/WksXKtvCQzI/AAAAAAAADTk/9AKUmqhMXYMAMVtKN8XLnxVCEqgXO72LACLcBGAs/s1600/WC3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1323" data-original-width="1600" height="528" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XwfQRB25m5c/WksXKtvCQzI/AAAAAAAADTk/9AKUmqhMXYMAMVtKN8XLnxVCEqgXO72LACLcBGAs/s640/WC3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Float away to crochet bliss while you create this lovely cowl. The
gradual widening from top to bottom makes it easy to style. This simple,
elegant cowl is worked in the round with the right side facing. It
isn’t difficult to create, using different sizes of hooks to decrease
instead of decreasing the number of stitches.<br />
<div class="notes markdown core_item_content__text_block">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CM61S6ci3Ak/WksXbmdOLKI/AAAAAAAADTs/zRDZtEBHpVAoBM_bDxcFwnvb3v9Vui4BwCLcBGAs/s1600/WC1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="763" data-original-width="1024" height="476" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CM61S6ci3Ak/WksXbmdOLKI/AAAAAAAADTs/zRDZtEBHpVAoBM_bDxcFwnvb3v9Vui4BwCLcBGAs/s640/WC1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This pattern is a part of my new Cerebral Crochet Series. I've been looking for a way to unite my three passions: fiber arts, teaching/learning, and psychology. I think I may have found it!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t_RWnlZI5VQ/WksWs_ZAY0I/AAAAAAAADTg/B6ZY35yHvo427FtTWvtgxpHCjFFJJtNcwCLcBGAs/s1600/Cerebral%2BCrochet%2BLogo%2Bblack.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="695" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t_RWnlZI5VQ/WksWs_ZAY0I/AAAAAAAADTg/B6ZY35yHvo427FtTWvtgxpHCjFFJJtNcwCLcBGAs/s320/Cerebral%2BCrochet%2BLogo%2Bblack.png" width="278" /></a></div>
<br />
So, what is the Cerebral Crochet Series? Well, the cerebrum is the part of our brains responsible for complex functioning, including what we would colloquially refer to as "thinking." Every pattern in the Cerebral Crochet Series will include some researched facts that relate to the name of the pattern. <br />
<br />
For your entertainment, a few fun facts about weightlessness are included at the end of the Weightless Cowl pattern. I'm really excited about this series! Let me know what you think in the comments. <br />
</div>
Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-11452395941229796032017-12-15T15:46:00.002-08:002017-12-15T15:46:57.229-08:00Review: Charley Crochet Cactus Kit from Global Backyard IndustriesToday, I will be reviewing the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Amigurumi-Everything-Including-Instructions-Character/dp/B0721NJLY9/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1513380700&sr=8-2&keywords=charley+crochet+cactus">Charley Crochet Cactus Kit</a> from <a href="https://www.globalbackyardindustries.com/">Global Backyard Industries</a>. Disclaimer: I received this complimentary kit in exchange for a
review. I am not being paid to write this review and everything shared
here is my real opinion. Thanks go out to Global Backyard Industries for providing the kit.<br />
<br />
So, there are 10 days until Christmas. How did we get here so quickly? Who knows. I am pleased to report that all of my (modest) shopping is done. Are you sitting there with no idea of what to get for someone this holiday season, be they crocheter or not? This kit could be a great solution to your problem! Since it is available on Amazon, you can buy it now and it will ship out quickly. Furthermore, the cactus it creates is quite giftable as well! Finally, this kit is priced very reasonably.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GE8OcYcNDxE/WjRcq6ik2pI/AAAAAAAADS4/aZgzcgFECVsBElGslzwvApohFRAGerChQCLcBGAs/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GE8OcYcNDxE/WjRcq6ik2pI/AAAAAAAADS4/aZgzcgFECVsBElGslzwvApohFRAGerChQCLcBGAs/s640/PicMonkey%2BCollage1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The kit comes with everything you need to create the cactus, even the hook! I trusted this to be true before opening it and brought it to my fiber group the other day, ready to work on it. The only thing it doesn't contain is scissors. The materials are of good quality. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-135YPOBtaFA/WjRdF9EuqAI/AAAAAAAADS8/HDjYFFVoHIgOp5-r0DNsB7dhw_rJpeV8ACLcBGAs/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-135YPOBtaFA/WjRdF9EuqAI/AAAAAAAADS8/HDjYFFVoHIgOp5-r0DNsB7dhw_rJpeV8ACLcBGAs/s640/PicMonkey%2BCollage2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The instructions were clear and the cactus was really fun to make. I was a little unsure about working with the green novelty yarn, but it turned out to be sturdy and just fine to work with. I love my little cactus! I haven't decided if I will give it to a friend or take it to work. Check it out!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sVm_FWOX9VI/WjRdvkVOwNI/AAAAAAAADTM/RKQo3fiwbcgtuyG-B0md6S_w8ywl40A9gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1555" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sVm_FWOX9VI/WjRdvkVOwNI/AAAAAAAADTM/RKQo3fiwbcgtuyG-B0md6S_w8ywl40A9gCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_3495.JPG" width="387" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jHxIa2ylsz4/WjRd35WMQTI/AAAAAAAADTQ/0o9SB9RGiUIR7fVbRyo2T5YG1AAxnQg5QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="1600" height="502" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jHxIa2ylsz4/WjRd35WMQTI/AAAAAAAADTQ/0o9SB9RGiUIR7fVbRyo2T5YG1AAxnQg5QCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3497.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
How cute! I unhesitatingly recommend this kit. Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-50414652664152960742017-12-12T00:09:00.001-08:002017-12-22T10:03:54.237-08:00Free Crochet Pattern: Ombre Lightning Scarf The other day I told you all about the <a href="http://illuminatecrochet.blogspot.com/2017/11/review-gradient-trio-from-zen-yarn.html">Royal Time Gradient Trio</a> that I had the opportunity to work with. I'm happy to report that I have just finished the pattern I was writing with it. Here's the Ombre Lightning Scarf! This is an extra extra long and skinny scarf that is chic and wrapped many times. Pattern below.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TQDxNQHrOh0/Wi94GBfDuCI/AAAAAAAADRM/2Ey2m-rZxPQva-bViyMRLE2J5gWUNRE9QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="468" height="375" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TQDxNQHrOh0/Wi94GBfDuCI/AAAAAAAADRM/2Ey2m-rZxPQva-bViyMRLE2J5gWUNRE9QCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_3483.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MMyGlJQC_T4/Wi94MxlZVyI/AAAAAAAADRQ/DjrS-XmkAo4BoZO9fbR0fJNPWx2kOdswQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="541" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MMyGlJQC_T4/Wi94MxlZVyI/AAAAAAAADRQ/DjrS-XmkAo4BoZO9fbR0fJNPWx2kOdswQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_3485.JPG" width="353" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BvioDcPV9gw/Wi94TdNNEHI/AAAAAAAADRU/WE7kaekYCFMeebmEve-mFuKEvwSBIkYGQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BvioDcPV9gw/Wi94TdNNEHI/AAAAAAAADRU/WE7kaekYCFMeebmEve-mFuKEvwSBIkYGQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_3484.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<u>Materials</u><br />
- 600 yd (548 m) of fingering weight yarn; 200 yards of each of three colors <br />
- US size E 3.5mm crochet hook<br />
- yarn needle<br />
- scissors<br />
<br />
<u>Measurements </u><br />
This scarf is about 10 ft (3 m) long and 3 in (7.5 cm) wide. <br />
<br />
<u>Terms</u><br />
sk = skip, dc = double crochet, ch = chain, st = stitch, rep = repeat, sc = single crochet<br />
<br />
<u>Scarf Base</u><br />
With darkest color, chain 32. <br />
Row 1: Sk 3 ch sts (counts as 1 dc). Work 1 dc into the fourth ch from the hook. Work 1 dc into each ch st across. (30)<br />
Row 2: Ch 3, turn. Sk first st. Work 1 dc into each st across. Work 1 final dc into the top of ch 3. (30)<br />
Row 3: Ch 8, turn. Sk 3 ch sts (counts as 1 dc). Work 1 dc into each remaining ch. Work 1 dc into first 24 sts. Leave remaining 5 sts and ch 3 unworked. (30)<br />
Row 4: Ch 3, turn. Sk first st. Work 1 dc into each st across. Work 1 final dc into the top of ch 3. (30)<br />
Rows 5 through 30: Rep Rows 3 and 4.<br />
Change to middle color.<br />
Rows 31 through 60: Rep Rows 3 and 4.<br />
Change to lightest color.<br />
Rows 61 to 90: Rep Rows 3 and 4.<br />
Fasten off and weave in ends.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZbIvVeugs1k/Wi-FXhklGzI/AAAAAAAADRY/SubK7dEXZEwXQkuC53SamWCMJM66W17MQCLcBGAs/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="1600" height="160" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZbIvVeugs1k/Wi-FXhklGzI/AAAAAAAADRY/SubK7dEXZEwXQkuC53SamWCMJM66W17MQCLcBGAs/s640/PicMonkey%2BCollage1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-okhqKBcZRsg/Wi-FcPNgkdI/AAAAAAAADRc/I4p4pozhb3ML9eXQlXe4QdHFR_oFa08-QCLcBGAs/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="1600" height="160" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-okhqKBcZRsg/Wi-FcPNgkdI/AAAAAAAADRc/I4p4pozhb3ML9eXQlXe4QdHFR_oFa08-QCLcBGAs/s640/PicMonkey%2BCollage2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<u>Border</u><br />
Make sure the right side is facing you. You will know that the right side is facing you if the little tips are curling up toward you. With the darkest color, attach with a slip stitch in the lightest corner. Work sc evenly up one entire side of the scarf. I worked 2 sc into each row end, ch 1 in the inner corners, 1 sc into each unworked dc, 1 sc into top of ch 3, and ch 1 on the outer corners. Fasten off and weave in ends.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8-pli_J6XJ0/Wi-HuToRP5I/AAAAAAAADRg/Vmzk5MaGRTkw2-0H2yT9bo8w8qmuVSt3wCLcBGAs/s1600/final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8-pli_J6XJ0/Wi-HuToRP5I/AAAAAAAADRg/Vmzk5MaGRTkw2-0H2yT9bo8w8qmuVSt3wCLcBGAs/s640/final.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Change to lightest color and attach with a slip stitch in the darkest corner. Repeat the same process up the other side of the scarf. Note that you will be working into the underside of the chain stitches instead of dc sts.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YWmcSiCy7-U/Wi-Jwz3J9DI/AAAAAAAADRk/EhyHG_ijAcAyS0afXLSHIQsJ4T1_7LntwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YWmcSiCy7-U/Wi-Jwz3J9DI/AAAAAAAADRk/EhyHG_ijAcAyS0afXLSHIQsJ4T1_7LntwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3481.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<u>Optional Fringe</u><br />
Once again, make sure that the right side is facing. With the middle color, cut 128 10-inch strands. Attach the strands in sets of four in every other stitch at both ends of the scarf. Use the <a href="https://www.interweave.com/article/knitting/larks-head-knot/">Lark's Head Knot</a> to attach the strands. Trim as desired.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E6FR8iMk5ck/Wi-MXnqaSJI/AAAAAAAADRo/kGogUgSsXCUcN0NsvL9d05p--dwRwXydQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3480.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E6FR8iMk5ck/Wi-MXnqaSJI/AAAAAAAADRo/kGogUgSsXCUcN0NsvL9d05p--dwRwXydQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3480.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
I hope you enjoy this pattern! Let me know what you think in the comments. I could see this pattern being adapted for thicker yarn weights. If you try it, let me know!<br />
<br />Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-11996392391739096842017-11-29T21:16:00.001-08:002017-11-29T21:16:21.187-08:00Review: Gradient Trio from Zen Yarn GardenToday, I will be reviewing the <a href="https://zenyarngarden.com/collections/gradient-sets-1/products/gradient-trio-royal-time-sf">Royal Time Gradient Trio</a> from Zen Yarn Garden. Disclaimer: I received this complimentary yarn in exchange for a
review. I am not being paid to write this review and everything shared
here is my real opinion. <br />
<br />
Gradient patterns are really hot right now. The bold ombre trend came up a few years ago, and now the focus has shifted to slightly more subtle color transitions. I love gradient projects. I think they are really classy. However, something that can sometimes be challenging is finding the right yarn for the pattern. Zen Yarn Garden has got you covered <a href="https://zenyarngarden.com/collections/gradient-sets-1?page=1">with their prearranged gradient sets</a>. They even <a href="https://zenyarngarden.com/blogs/zen-news/knitting-patterns-for-gradient-sets?utm_medium=email&utm_source=sharpspring&sslid=M7E0NjawNDUzsDA2BQA&sseid=MzS1tDA1MbYwNwUA&jobid=2dc0d821-050a-4cfb-909b-33dba0111304">suggest patterns</a>!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FRSmKtFuKLo/Wh-Rv2PxViI/AAAAAAAADQo/4lSHfwrYLmkGq6G7Dqhwf9bCXaVR4g8KQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FRSmKtFuKLo/Wh-Rv2PxViI/AAAAAAAADQo/4lSHfwrYLmkGq6G7Dqhwf9bCXaVR4g8KQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3243.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I am currently working with this yarn and it is a very pleasant experience. I'm using a smallish hook (3.5mm), and yet my hand is not tiring too much. I think it is because the yarn is very smooth and easy to work with. It is soft, yet it also provides good stitch definition.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zk5uUjXbvGU/Wh-SHYSPlwI/AAAAAAAADQs/gTieqwHgOwY5Z0RUTYqLOH_wPMJ-QSiygCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zk5uUjXbvGU/Wh-SHYSPlwI/AAAAAAAADQs/gTieqwHgOwY5Z0RUTYqLOH_wPMJ-QSiygCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3241.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Purple is my favorite color, so this is the perfect set for me. At first I thought I might find an existing pattern to work with. However, I got a flash of design inspiration and I've actually been developing a simple crochet pattern. Guess what? It will be a free pattern!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OShxvQY1vXM/Wh-Solw12YI/AAAAAAAADQ4/BGQ0_0HqKSYzhoYYVXPZJA_yey7E85PogCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="913" data-original-width="988" height="590" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OShxvQY1vXM/Wh-Solw12YI/AAAAAAAADQ4/BGQ0_0HqKSYzhoYYVXPZJA_yey7E85PogCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3447.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This is just a little teaser picture. The free pattern should be posted sometime at the beginning of December. Speaking of December, I heartily endorse this gradient trio as a holiday gift. For a knitter or crocheter. If I have extra yarn after the pattern is complete, I'll knit it up and let you know what I think. For now, I am perfectly pleased to be crocheting with it. Thank you for the yarn, Zen Yarn Garden!<br />
<br />Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-32292367910014883522017-11-25T15:59:00.002-08:002017-11-25T15:59:47.907-08:00Gift Nature's Gifts!Thanksgiving has passed and winter holiday decorations are popping up everywhere! Something I'm really happy about is that I am completely done with my holiday shopping. It's true! I got a jump on it this year and now I get to wrap all of the presents. I think wrapping presents is super fun!<br />
<br />
However, I realize that I am likely an anomaly in having my shopping done. Most folks are just getting started. If you're looking for a gift for a crocheter, consider my book: <a href="http://illuminatecrochet.blogspot.com/2016/07/my-first-book-natures-gifts-from.html">Nature's Gifts for Baby</a>. It can be purchased on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Natures-Gifts-Baby-Crochet-Leisure/dp/1464752265/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1511647491&sr=8-8&keywords=nature%27s+gifts+for+baby">Amazon</a> and the <a href="https://www.leisurearts.com/nature-s-gifts-for-baby.html">Leisure Arts website</a> (where it's on sale this weekend!), as well as in craft stores around the United States. Your giftee will be able to get a head start on all of the baby shower gifts that will be needed next summer as a result of this year's cozy winter moments *wink*.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z0hX6P6z2wY/WhntLlNkqGI/AAAAAAAADQY/KTdykTwX0d4Be_vGfbC3XH0ednRgcRcrQCLcBGAs/s1600/Front%2BCover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1246" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z0hX6P6z2wY/WhntLlNkqGI/AAAAAAAADQY/KTdykTwX0d4Be_vGfbC3XH0ednRgcRcrQCLcBGAs/s640/Front%2BCover.jpg" width="498" /></a></div>
<br />
Still not convinced? Check out these reviews:<br />
<br /><a href="http://thecrochetcrowd.com/book-review-natures-gifts-baby-sara-leighton/">From Mikey of The Crochet Crowd</a>: "Sara has gone that extra step to make the blankets look and feel special."<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mooglyblog.com/natures-gifts-baby-review-giveaway/">From Tamara Kelly of Moogly</a>: "Aren’t they gorgeous!?"<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.crochetconcupiscence.com/2016/08/natures-gifts-for-baby-crochet-book-review/">From Kathryn Vercillo of Crochet Concupiscence</a>: "I love the way that nature has inspired the pieces in ways that are both obvious and subtle."<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.feltedbutton.com/2016/08/natures-gifts-book-review.html">From Susan Carlson of Felted Button</a>: "As you know--I looove making blankets, so this is right down my alley!"</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://thecrochetarchitect.com/book-review-natures-gifts-for-baby/">From Susan Lowman of The Crochet Architect</a>: </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">"If you’re looking for some new crochet patterns to make for a favorite
baby in your life, I hope you’ll consider this book with lots of
creative designs!" </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">PS: Re-reading all of the kind words of the reviewers definitely has me misty-eyed. The crochet community is so kind and supportive!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-67212944093359303382017-11-19T13:32:00.000-08:002017-11-19T13:32:30.801-08:00Yarn at the Northwest Chocolate Festival I have been going to so many events. It's been fun, but also exhausting. I recently attended the last event I'll be going to for a while. The Northwest Chocolate Festival was interesting and tasty, but also very crowded. It was located right on a pier with a pretty view of the Puget Sound. They had chocolate vendors visiting from all over the world. In addition to chocolate, they also had other specialty items like hot sauce and jerky. I sampled both kangaroo jerky and alligator jerky. I enjoyed the former... not so much the latter.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WNXy2tP3P9E/WgkpGbn_vqI/AAAAAAAADPw/mHZZplvxNewsQrEQGqOpjYp8FD-EhanGQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="880" data-original-width="1291" height="436" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WNXy2tP3P9E/WgkpGbn_vqI/AAAAAAAADPw/mHZZplvxNewsQrEQGqOpjYp8FD-EhanGQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3392.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TD_CpyQ4IaU/WgkpL6zBrBI/AAAAAAAADP0/Do2ect3gfD0VrbLE7-hLstyZYfJ1iCtBwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="725" data-original-width="834" height="554" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TD_CpyQ4IaU/WgkpL6zBrBI/AAAAAAAADP0/Do2ect3gfD0VrbLE7-hLstyZYfJ1iCtBwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3394.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OcMfWcu01bk/WgkpQnzu9aI/AAAAAAAADP4/smc89Jj1ycsDa8moA9ju4sNJepQFp7tkwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1113" data-original-width="1600" height="444" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OcMfWcu01bk/WgkpQnzu9aI/AAAAAAAADP4/smc89Jj1ycsDa8moA9ju4sNJepQFp7tkwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3393.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bqTyKtGPCoo/WgkpcuMMPBI/AAAAAAAADP8/3l1xAHw-MOI7HZGMN4LmevdbxIKvu51MQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1417" data-original-width="1224" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bqTyKtGPCoo/WgkpcuMMPBI/AAAAAAAADP8/3l1xAHw-MOI7HZGMN4LmevdbxIKvu51MQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3387.JPG" width="552" /></a></div>
<br />
Why am I talking about a chocolate festival on a fiber arts blog? Well, as luck would have it, I actually found yarn there! Stellar Alpacas had a selection of yarn and goodies for sale.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gLj2oZzp0aM/WgkpoQT-w5I/AAAAAAAADQE/x8jdbgTgOZ0pq8XZ6GFpZhRtMJIVlIlAACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gLj2oZzp0aM/WgkpoQT-w5I/AAAAAAAADQE/x8jdbgTgOZ0pq8XZ6GFpZhRtMJIVlIlAACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3388.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hKP93OjCcrQ/Wgkps-7OevI/AAAAAAAADQI/fkeeKcMHSQwG4LZDsMY5k1RbZJuauIBhgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hKP93OjCcrQ/Wgkps-7OevI/AAAAAAAADQI/fkeeKcMHSQwG4LZDsMY5k1RbZJuauIBhgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3389.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-64257247784041468282017-11-14T21:19:00.001-08:002017-11-14T21:20:02.412-08:00Willow Cowl: Take TwoIn my Vogue Knitting Live pictures, I was wearing a freshly knitted cowl. It was another <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/willow-cowl">Willow Cowl</a>, made with gorgeous yarn that my friend, Toni, gave me. I had fun making <a href="http://illuminatecrochet.blogspot.com/2016/05/finished-knit-willow-cowl.html">the first cowl </a>and wanted to try a second that was true to the pattern. I enjoy the result... but I won't be repeating a pattern again. I have found that I much prefer making something new each time, whether it be designing or working up someone else's pattern. However, I'm happy I made this cowl. It is very wearable and the colors are very me. I didn't block it; I like it the way it is. It's squishy and has a lot of movement. (I'm also lazy about blocking!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N0LJAh7JgEk/WgklE93EDUI/AAAAAAAADPY/yfUyoRn6bUYnyO4M0VTfdW5PH5H7Mm4mwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N0LJAh7JgEk/WgklE93EDUI/AAAAAAAADPY/yfUyoRn6bUYnyO4M0VTfdW5PH5H7Mm4mwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3352.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IpZrNEsQBvA/WgklKY_0BeI/AAAAAAAADPc/GElChxeTcmcwxwdKmAcIm0KRfl-Cm1JugCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3374.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IpZrNEsQBvA/WgklKY_0BeI/AAAAAAAADPc/GElChxeTcmcwxwdKmAcIm0KRfl-Cm1JugCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3374.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zhrI8aUjQNY/WgklYxZlpHI/AAAAAAAADPg/5tX7GwCEctAdajuSR-qeNmEngbiN40szwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1244" data-original-width="1224" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zhrI8aUjQNY/WgklYxZlpHI/AAAAAAAADPg/5tX7GwCEctAdajuSR-qeNmEngbiN40szwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3375.JPG" width="628" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gc-qJ5J2S_I/WgkldS0CHMI/AAAAAAAADPk/2SHXD5-gCikADtTlM1DlxmwN33LiVK8uwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1103" data-original-width="964" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gc-qJ5J2S_I/WgkldS0CHMI/AAAAAAAADPk/2SHXD5-gCikADtTlM1DlxmwN33LiVK8uwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3376.JPG" width="558" /></a></div>
<br />Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-74203901024091040702017-11-12T19:41:00.001-08:002017-11-12T20:00:04.899-08:00Vouge Knitting Live Seattle 2017: Megapost!Fall has shaped up to be quite a busy season for me! I've been to at least one event each weekend, I'm working on several projects at once, and my day job is as busy as ever. I was lucky enough to go to Vogue Knitting Live last weekend... and I'm only just getting around to posting about it today!<br />
<br />
This was such a cool event. I had heard about it when it came by a few years ago, but I didn't end up going. I made sure to snag my ticket early this year!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BpUkt8_6Rgw/WgkLpziKdwI/AAAAAAAADN0/UhbWaGRIwDE58DseEk26vnusOofXHR05QCLcBGAs/s1600/intro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BpUkt8_6Rgw/WgkLpziKdwI/AAAAAAAADN0/UhbWaGRIwDE58DseEk26vnusOofXHR05QCLcBGAs/s640/intro.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
The event was filled with art, presentation, classes, booths, and fiber lovers of all ages and crafts. I saw lots of great crochet. I think the fine yarn world is doing a much better job of being inclusive of crochet these days.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mXYNFCPGKa4/WgkMF0JYE1I/AAAAAAAADN4/XTHhdnAmVKkawmQra-AqK7LbVaV9GHQ4gCLcBGAs/s1600/yarn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mXYNFCPGKa4/WgkMF0JYE1I/AAAAAAAADN4/XTHhdnAmVKkawmQra-AqK7LbVaV9GHQ4gCLcBGAs/s640/yarn.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
There was soooooo much delightful yarn! I really had to contain myself. Look at the lovelies above from <a href="http://www.marygavanyarns.com/">Mary Gavan Yarns</a>, <a href="https://www.knitpicks.com/">Knit Picks</a>, and <a href="https://thirdpiece.com/">Third Piece</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rKXsc7bp7FU/WgkM7EN34WI/AAAAAAAADOE/xZdQOxChiLU8D-tTXPGqrBgCXs8gmApKQCLcBGAs/s1600/The%2BBlue%2BBrick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rKXsc7bp7FU/WgkM7EN34WI/AAAAAAAADOE/xZdQOxChiLU8D-tTXPGqrBgCXs8gmApKQCLcBGAs/s640/The%2BBlue%2BBrick.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I absolutely fell in love with the gradient yarns of <a href="https://shop.thebluebrick.ca/">The Blue Brick</a>, and the dyer herself kindly posed for a picture. Unfortunately, I snoozed on the hank that I wanted. When I went back, it was gone! How exciting are the sparkles?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dCKR3uvcZ9o/WgkOCkfkAGI/AAAAAAAADOQ/8zf1mAtn8qUKBO2g7hAdYVdTSo0o5WeaQCLcBGAs/s1600/epstein.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dCKR3uvcZ9o/WgkOCkfkAGI/AAAAAAAADOQ/8zf1mAtn8qUKBO2g7hAdYVdTSo0o5WeaQCLcBGAs/s640/epstein.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.ravelry.com/designers/nicky-epstein">Nicky Epstein</a> had a booth showcasing her large "Teatime Bears," as well as toy animals made by knitters who had followed her patterns.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3D0c7Gw8tQ/WgkOf4nZV6I/AAAAAAAADOU/sm2YEBHsJ1wTR5nvMwC3VR3AnDm3pL-tgCLcBGAs/s1600/reddig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3D0c7Gw8tQ/WgkOf4nZV6I/AAAAAAAADOU/sm2YEBHsJ1wTR5nvMwC3VR3AnDm3pL-tgCLcBGAs/s640/reddig.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.ravelry.com/designers/laurinda-reddig">Laurinda Reddig</a>, a super friendly crochet designer who I previously met at Urban Craft Uprising, had a lovely selection of crochet pieces out to show.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XgZxC29qNJg/WgkO4MqW4mI/AAAAAAAADOg/njianyAQMTIvn4H7iBGQaydfnHNx7HnbwCLcBGAs/s1600/gallina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="957" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XgZxC29qNJg/WgkO4MqW4mI/AAAAAAAADOg/njianyAQMTIvn4H7iBGQaydfnHNx7HnbwCLcBGAs/s640/gallina.jpg" width="382" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/ginarosegallina/">Gina Rose Gallina</a>, <a href="http://illuminatecrochet.blogspot.com/2017/04/giant-crochet-pineapple.html">whose pineapple I blogged about previously</a>, was there showing off some amazing and whimsical art. She took the time to chat with me and share tidbits about her process. She is so friendly!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hV6UhTP-mEg/WgkP-Qu7OXI/AAAAAAAADOs/yhe6hjaWuscBeAEUQzjlhSds4ZJcMba2QCLcBGAs/s1600/greer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hV6UhTP-mEg/WgkP-Qu7OXI/AAAAAAAADOs/yhe6hjaWuscBeAEUQzjlhSds4ZJcMba2QCLcBGAs/s640/greer.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://mandygreer.wordpress.com/">Mandy Greer</a>'s art was a mix of many mediums, crochet included. The blue artwork was made by many hands and brought together by Mandy. Such a neat aesthetic! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EVNL1s5pQ5Y/WgkQbBI-Z5I/AAAAAAAADOw/m-ZoN6G9YoI337_RsLXFbG__D1Wqew9TwCLcBGAs/s1600/more%2Bart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1356" data-original-width="1600" height="542" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EVNL1s5pQ5Y/WgkQbBI-Z5I/AAAAAAAADOw/m-ZoN6G9YoI337_RsLXFbG__D1Wqew9TwCLcBGAs/s640/more%2Bart.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
More amazing art was showcased by <a href="http://www.suzannetidwell.com/">Suzanne Tidwell</a>, <a href="https://www.carolmilne.com/">Carol Milne</a>, <a href="http://clairectaylor.com/embroiderynew/">Claire Taylor</a>, and <a href="http://illuminatecrochet.blogspot.com/2013/09/friday-focus-gabriele-meyer.html">Gabriele Meyer</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y-ViZgn0Tec/WgkSecLDzVI/AAAAAAAADO8/WtUBoiVsJCMg4TT8mMOjC3I2aR88lljHwCLcBGAs/s1600/yarn%2Bdrop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y-ViZgn0Tec/WgkSecLDzVI/AAAAAAAADO8/WtUBoiVsJCMg4TT8mMOjC3I2aR88lljHwCLcBGAs/s640/yarn%2Bdrop.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
At the end of the event there was a yarn drop, hosted by <a href="https://knitrowan.com/en/">Rowan</a>. I got to catch yarn as it fell from the ceiling! It was really fun to line up with all of the other yarn lovers. I managed to snag two skeins from the same dye lot!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XXSOm5QfOHA/WgkTFX8m4QI/AAAAAAAADPE/6oyyhvjGwYI6FG-pe1_WPZIPYU1EizWmwCLcBGAs/s1600/friends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XXSOm5QfOHA/WgkTFX8m4QI/AAAAAAAADPE/6oyyhvjGwYI6FG-pe1_WPZIPYU1EizWmwCLcBGAs/s640/friends.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
After the event, my friends Claire, Suzanne, and Caroline all joined me at a coffee shop. We worked, chatted, and reviewed our loot.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jc5vvGYLbEs/WgkTfWA2SCI/AAAAAAAADPI/L3NN7la34jQvvXRxdWmNLBdc7GOmiD-1ACLcBGAs/s1600/loot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1384" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jc5vvGYLbEs/WgkTfWA2SCI/AAAAAAAADPI/L3NN7la34jQvvXRxdWmNLBdc7GOmiD-1ACLcBGAs/s640/loot.jpg" width="552" /></a></div>
I came away from the market with some <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/MissPurl">lovely stitch markers and a case from Miss Purl</a>. They can be used as either crochet or knitting markers. Isn't that cool!? I also splurged on a gorgeous skein of <a href="https://fidalgoyarns.com/">sparkle yarn from Fidalgo</a>. It was such a great time! I'll definitely attend when it comes to Seattle again. Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-85223960671281450392017-10-28T12:12:00.001-07:002017-10-28T12:12:38.953-07:00Yarn at Seattle RecreativeI love Seattle's Greenwood neighborhood. With a bar called The Angry Beaver, my favorite yarn shop called The Fiber Gallery, The Greenwood Space Travel Supply Company (the funds of which go to a non-profit tutoring center for kids), and Chocolati chocolate cafe... what's not to love!? The <a href="https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/greenwood-explosion-destroys-buildings-injures-9-firefighters/">neighborhood suffered a tragedy last year</a>, but it has mostly recovered. <br />
<br />
Another neat spot in Greenwood is <a href="http://www.seattlerecreative.org/">Seattle Recreative</a>. This is a non-profit shop that receives donations of craft supplies and resells them. They use the profits from the sales to fund art programs. This place is so fun to browse; it is full of little treasures! As a teacher, it seems to me to be the ultimate representation of the phrase "I could totally use this for a class project someday!" They even have a yarn stash. Check it out!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xtNsml9f6AI/WfTWWYrI0hI/AAAAAAAADMs/pf6L9j0YaHIOl0wnhpdudn3ogzfAHyFmQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="800" height="449" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xtNsml9f6AI/WfTWWYrI0hI/AAAAAAAADMs/pf6L9j0YaHIOl0wnhpdudn3ogzfAHyFmQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3128.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AGEBB04u5WA/WfTWbp_W8UI/AAAAAAAADMw/6mxSK5KmfSgIB8Mb06NLOg5_smRhu2F1gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AGEBB04u5WA/WfTWbp_W8UI/AAAAAAAADMw/6mxSK5KmfSgIB8Mb06NLOg5_smRhu2F1gCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3127.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-24645172805431339792017-10-08T18:12:00.000-07:002017-10-08T18:12:01.325-07:00Color Pooling in Crochet: An Exploration (with Bonus Knitting!)Have you ever purchased a multi-color yarn that didn't work up like you expected it to? Perhaps the colors on the hank or skein didn't match what you wanted the finished object to look like. Perhaps an unexpected color pattern showed up along the way. When the colors of a yarn group up in particular places, that is called pooling. The color pooling in a finished object can really make or break it. You can have a lot of pooling or a little. The pooling could be patterned or random. There could be spots or stripes. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XS43KnV-roU/WY9M4nygGBI/AAAAAAAADHg/fr4hFpY9jk0AfUZQrMI6a--AWJbQ2lNRwCLcBGAs/s1600/Pooling%2B1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="636" data-original-width="747" height="544" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XS43KnV-roU/WY9M4nygGBI/AAAAAAAADHg/fr4hFpY9jk0AfUZQrMI6a--AWJbQ2lNRwCLcBGAs/s640/Pooling%2B1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's the most important thing about pooling: It changes based on your stitch pattern. So, while it may be tempting to give away a yarn skein when the colors didn't thrill you the first time, wait! Try again. Another stitch pattern might make all the difference. Pooling can also be affected by the length of your repeat. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3OM_-381P_k/WY9NHJyBsTI/AAAAAAAADHk/uZNkTZ_S5lEbQV8jT0NZkNk_78aOAcgtQCLcBGAs/s1600/Pooling%2B2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="333" data-original-width="1000" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3OM_-381P_k/WY9NHJyBsTI/AAAAAAAADHk/uZNkTZ_S5lEbQV8jT0NZkNk_78aOAcgtQCLcBGAs/s640/Pooling%2B2.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
For this pooling exploration, I used a discontinued skein of Caron Simply Soft that my friend Vicki gave me, which hopefully represents something you might have laying around in your stash. I worked it up in a number of stitch patterns, trying to maintain around the same width.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wUy9-5XZt_M/WY9NRQqkTsI/AAAAAAAADHo/yHF8DRf949MfXeyaVkhzYDZnJAWh28vcACLcBGAs/s1600/Pooling%2B3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="848" height="578" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wUy9-5XZt_M/WY9NRQqkTsI/AAAAAAAADHo/yHF8DRf949MfXeyaVkhzYDZnJAWh28vcACLcBGAs/s640/Pooling%2B3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
In this first picture, I really like the pooling in the smaller stitches. The single crochet on the bottom left and the linen stitch on the top right look good to me. However, I don't really enjoy it in the taller stitches. The shell stitch at the top left looks a little muddy to me, and also has some vertical stripes going on. I also don't think this yarn looks good in the round <i>at all</i>, in either the double or triple crochet. What this tells me is that it could make a nice simple scarf, but I probably wouldn't want to use it for a hat. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hWtlOrIbHuE/WY9NWrCgycI/AAAAAAAADHs/WDNVMiqFqzEP5grHhPSV_dY20Maw1Z-PgCLcBGAs/s1600/Pooling%2B4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="806" height="608" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hWtlOrIbHuE/WY9NWrCgycI/AAAAAAAADHs/WDNVMiqFqzEP5grHhPSV_dY20Maw1Z-PgCLcBGAs/s640/Pooling%2B4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm not the biggest fan of the pooling in almost any of the samples in this picture. The post ribs, v-stitch, double crochet, and triple crochet all look muddy to me. I think this is because this is a short color changing yarn instead of a long one, so in taller stitches there are lots of colors per stitch instead of just one or two. The knit garter stitch on the bottom right doesn't tickle me, either. However, the striped look of the stockinette above it is nice in a very different way from the single crochet.<br />
<br />
There you have it, a small look at pooling. Have fun experimenting to find what looks best to you. Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-16864652058466901652017-10-01T17:26:00.002-07:002017-10-01T17:26:34.505-07:00Crochet Basketweave Cowl in the RoundOne of my most popular blog posts of all time is my <a href="http://illuminatecrochet.blogspot.com/2013/07/special-edition-basketweave-tutorial.html">basketweave stitch tutorial</a>. It's easy to understand why; this is a fun stitch to work up, and the results are very attractive. One of my favorite basketweave projects has been my <a href="http://illuminatecrochet.blogspot.com/2016/07/carefree-basketweave-crossbody-bag.html">Carefree Crossbody Bag</a> pattern. I also enjoy the basketweave stitch for times when mindless crocheting is necessary, such as on my commute or when distracted and chatting with my weekly fiber group. So, when I had some extra Berroco Ultra Alpaca hanging about, I decided to work it up in basketweave.<br />
<br />
Sometimes you aren't sure what you are making until after you've begun. Such was the case with this particular project. This was my first time working the basketweave in the round, and boy was it fun. It looks crisper and cleaner than basketweave worked in rows because only the fronts of the stitches show on the outside. What my item eventually ended up becoming was an asymmetrical infinity scarf. I also included a little twist (ba dum tss!) on the basketweave by working up the lighter yarn in basketweave cables to vary the texture in addition to the color. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T22tdpyEov8/WY6o12WxtaI/AAAAAAAADG0/5gUlfpujXe4isXLYt_1I2XF5QXJ-cYdUwCLcBGAs/s1600/Cowl%2B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="463" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T22tdpyEov8/WY6o12WxtaI/AAAAAAAADG0/5gUlfpujXe4isXLYt_1I2XF5QXJ-cYdUwCLcBGAs/s640/Cowl%2B2.JPG" width="491" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hsfwxvjYy30/WY6qhd1v6kI/AAAAAAAADHA/lQQTM0POy-wyOX9XJ2pzC-xXQ8eT-K-ngCLcBGAs/s1600/Cowl%2B3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hsfwxvjYy30/WY6qhd1v6kI/AAAAAAAADHA/lQQTM0POy-wyOX9XJ2pzC-xXQ8eT-K-ngCLcBGAs/s640/Cowl%2B3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8T5DL2UDFiE/WY6qm176BiI/AAAAAAAADHE/rFhrFuWWMS8fn1Ay2fLLENrPMsVjzqueQCLcBGAs/s1600/Cowl%2B4a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="487" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8T5DL2UDFiE/WY6qm176BiI/AAAAAAAADHE/rFhrFuWWMS8fn1Ay2fLLENrPMsVjzqueQCLcBGAs/s640/Cowl%2B4a.jpg" width="518" /></a></div>
<br />
Working the scarf in the round made the finished product <i>very</i> warm. This is because the pocket in the center traps warmth. It would be an excellent choice for a very warm winter accessory.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KW-SXihI7TQ/WY6r03sxYBI/AAAAAAAADHQ/h4kTMwe6_LMiekAHC7rW_SnKKTS3n_EcACLcBGAs/s1600/Cowl%2B5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="552" data-original-width="800" height="440" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KW-SXihI7TQ/WY6r03sxYBI/AAAAAAAADHQ/h4kTMwe6_LMiekAHC7rW_SnKKTS3n_EcACLcBGAs/s640/Cowl%2B5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Of course, Ranna didn't seem to mind the warmth. She is convinced that this scarf is actually some kind of cat bed. She murred and meowed while trying to get comfortable in it.<br />
<br />
All in all, I definitely recommend working up basketweave in this way.Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-60349529650246918702017-09-23T16:59:00.002-07:002017-09-23T16:59:42.153-07:00Berry Good Berry Bag Crochet PatternFall is here! I love fall. Maybe that makes me "basic," but I don't care! I love pumpkin spice lattes, and pretty leaves, and candles, and crisp air, and all kinds of shenanigans. You know what else is a fall staple, especially in the Pacific Northwest? Berries. Berries grow all over the darn place out here; they happen to be invasive. Invasive or not, it's so fun to pick berries on the side of the road and eat them raw, turn them into pies, or even put them in a cocktail. You can pick your own berry with my new pattern, the Berry Good Berry Bag. It is available on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/berry-good-berry-bag">Ravelry</a> and <a href="https://www.craftsy.com/crocheting/patterns/berry-good-berry-bag/512525">Craftsy</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="notes markdown core_item_content__text_block">
This sweet bag pattern is highly customizable. The sample is a
raspberry, but you can easily create a blackberry, salmon berry, or blue
raspberry with a simple color change. You could even make it into a
bunch of grapes by using purple! You can also make it bigger or smaller
by changing the weight of the yarn, changing the hook size, or adding
more repeats.<br />
<br />
Unlike many lined bags, this bag is worked in one piece. How convenient!<br />
<br />
This pattern is for intermediate crocheters. The techniques used
include crocheting in the round, working in front/back loop only,
cluster stitches, detailed repeats, and some minor shaping. <br />
<br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0so9K2GXdN4/Wcb1FvALqZI/AAAAAAAADME/LGkbzc74Oq8FN7jIORP-lIs_tN0iF4APQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="843" height="582" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0so9K2GXdN4/Wcb1FvALqZI/AAAAAAAADME/LGkbzc74Oq8FN7jIORP-lIs_tN0iF4APQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_2548.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r3VBc_nzTM4/Wcb1Kh3_5RI/AAAAAAAADMI/ZUq2uMfay8E_ocEKizi2EEaW0axMzEidQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="576" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r3VBc_nzTM4/Wcb1Kh3_5RI/AAAAAAAADMI/ZUq2uMfay8E_ocEKizi2EEaW0axMzEidQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_2551.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c9pzm_T8EIE/Wcb1Qwn2SsI/AAAAAAAADMM/HF8_Yea_ku8n319ju-wU4nGdcPS5znbfACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="760" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c9pzm_T8EIE/Wcb1Qwn2SsI/AAAAAAAADMM/HF8_Yea_ku8n319ju-wU4nGdcPS5znbfACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_2553.JPG" width="632" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B1rH-ygBN-g/Wcb1VF0Z0WI/AAAAAAAADMQ/AaDSeGL9PEQKGtIvKi-6umaG-RJNDgCQwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="576" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B1rH-ygBN-g/Wcb1VF0Z0WI/AAAAAAAADMQ/AaDSeGL9PEQKGtIvKi-6umaG-RJNDgCQwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_2550.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-57506956927795918472017-09-15T11:02:00.000-07:002017-09-15T11:02:11.817-07:00Rainy Sunday Knitters Go to ToltA few weekends ago my fiber group, the Rainy Sunday Knitters, took a little trip to celebrate one of our members. Lindley (in the blue shawl that she made for her wedding) just recently got married, so we all went to brunch and to <a href="https://www.toltyarnandwool.com/">Tolt Yarn and Wool</a> to celebrate. It was a little bit of a drive, but it was worth it. Tolt is known for its inspiring displays of yarn and friendly attendants. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves. Pictures of items are mine, and pictures of people were taken by my friend, Toni. Thanks for a great day out, friends. Best wishes, Lindley!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MIdRrC1vB4c/WbwUYm4n_YI/AAAAAAAADLE/qzpylJ-nrXoAqqtArh5M2cnhtOwzuUaLACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MIdRrC1vB4c/WbwUYm4n_YI/AAAAAAAADLE/qzpylJ-nrXoAqqtArh5M2cnhtOwzuUaLACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3094.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F0XT67kIMc8/WbwUdn8uglI/AAAAAAAADLI/IIUEYkLzRDgxb_kPXokAVfbfg36x5yMLwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="583" height="492" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F0XT67kIMc8/WbwUdn8uglI/AAAAAAAADLI/IIUEYkLzRDgxb_kPXokAVfbfg36x5yMLwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3088.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XOUU4CYSolQ/WbwUlrZbIkI/AAAAAAAADLM/DX5bF_JICV0qypbqoH2gYLgjDXz5FT0UQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XOUU4CYSolQ/WbwUlrZbIkI/AAAAAAAADLM/DX5bF_JICV0qypbqoH2gYLgjDXz5FT0UQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3081.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HkPcraswGjc/WbwUqc-_tFI/AAAAAAAADLQ/rllJaW4o1IAtmXS6o7PA1IY7aOWYvaRnACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HkPcraswGjc/WbwUqc-_tFI/AAAAAAAADLQ/rllJaW4o1IAtmXS6o7PA1IY7aOWYvaRnACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3086.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VN-nqf8iteg/WbwUu04s6yI/AAAAAAAADLU/jLs-plDuHi0u3cB4xznlsA5aIVCyLVo0ACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VN-nqf8iteg/WbwUu04s6yI/AAAAAAAADLU/jLs-plDuHi0u3cB4xznlsA5aIVCyLVo0ACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3087.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z5BzkbtflZc/WbwU1asIgxI/AAAAAAAADLY/vHzCRu1YGS8e6zvqlUjQISLtQhfi6xAgwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z5BzkbtflZc/WbwU1asIgxI/AAAAAAAADLY/vHzCRu1YGS8e6zvqlUjQISLtQhfi6xAgwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3084.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9funtYDQ-YI/WbwU716z4II/AAAAAAAADLc/VBZ5ac6sbpEFF5jTXvStkum6Y4Xu-vZYQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9funtYDQ-YI/WbwU716z4II/AAAAAAAADLc/VBZ5ac6sbpEFF5jTXvStkum6Y4Xu-vZYQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3082.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZlWqngw3pyE/WbwVBMSoCkI/AAAAAAAADLg/8fROGhv1nzku5am_Cy29UBIZXAyhLwHQwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZlWqngw3pyE/WbwVBMSoCkI/AAAAAAAADLg/8fROGhv1nzku5am_Cy29UBIZXAyhLwHQwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3090.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-89z39WiVf6M/WbwVOYh1YrI/AAAAAAAADLk/FnPNhE5PjUAhOr16wwN7u3hKOhqkgT79wCLcBGAs/s1600/unnamed2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="877" data-original-width="1280" height="438" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-89z39WiVf6M/WbwVOYh1YrI/AAAAAAAADLk/FnPNhE5PjUAhOr16wwN7u3hKOhqkgT79wCLcBGAs/s640/unnamed2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7MPugdywJTw/WbwVUSVjdOI/AAAAAAAADLo/6sc6jzTbAZMl-DKTqy-DzXs3BeGESIs9ACLcBGAs/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="561" data-original-width="513" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7MPugdywJTw/WbwVUSVjdOI/AAAAAAAADLo/6sc6jzTbAZMl-DKTqy-DzXs3BeGESIs9ACLcBGAs/s400/unnamed.jpg" width="365" /></a></div>
<br />Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-989582288114982642017-09-01T19:05:00.002-07:002017-09-01T19:05:42.482-07:00Review: Manos del Uruguay Alegria Grande YarnToday, I'll be reviewing <a href="http://fairmountfibers.com/yarns/alegria-grande">Manos del Uruguay Alegria Grande yarn. </a>Disclaimer: I received this complimentary yarn in exchange for a
review. I am not being paid to write this review and everything shared
here is my real opinion. Thanks go out to Fairmount Fibers for providing this lovely yarn for me to play with. <br />
<br />
Despite having both my personal and professional lives being very busy, I am getting into the groove with my crochet business again. As such, I need to be very picky about how I spend my time. I have some big, exciting projects that I am working on. That said, when I got the opportunity to review another yarn from <a href="http://fairmountfibers.com/about-manos">Manos del Uruguay</a> (<a href="http://illuminatecrochet.blogspot.com/2014/09/review-manos-del-uruguay-franca-yarn.html">I previously reviewed Franca</a>), I accepted right away. What a wonderful yarn company! They care about the people who make their yarn and the yarn itself is wonderful to work with.<br />
<br />
As soon as I received my skein of Alegria Grande, I knew I would not be disappointed. There were many colors to choose from, but I selected Orquidea because it reminded me of a spring garden. The hank of yarn was so soft and squishy! Wanna know something silly? I ended up winding it up by hand instead of using my winder, simply because I wanted to play with the squishy goodness.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zH0v5fr2H7c/WaoPD22JZ2I/AAAAAAAADKM/erOoA6tCzP48cNW_BV92EtSIQAJxSVbJACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="420" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zH0v5fr2H7c/WaoPD22JZ2I/AAAAAAAADKM/erOoA6tCzP48cNW_BV92EtSIQAJxSVbJACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3071.JPG" width="448" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FjBpBoL5YSU/WaoPJU4GNJI/AAAAAAAADKQ/Y61eETKs3PsIe0mfEcyjYYYLud6amCU-wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="615" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FjBpBoL5YSU/WaoPJU4GNJI/AAAAAAAADKQ/Y61eETKs3PsIe0mfEcyjYYYLud6amCU-wCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3072.JPG" width="498" /></a></div>
<br />
Having only one skein, I decided to dive into my crochet <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/crochet-one-skein-wonders-101-projects-from-crocheters-around-the-world">One Skein Wonders</a> book to find a suitable project. I settled on the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/boutique-weave-scarf">Boutique Weave Scarf </a>because I wanted to show off the colors in the yarn. I ended up making some alterations to the pattern. First, I included more repeats of the mesh base. Second, I added a decorative border to either end instead of fringe. Last, I whipped up a little cinch with the remainder of my yarn ball so that the scarf could be worn once around the neck more comfortably.<br />
<br />
I enjoyed every moment I spent working with this yarn. It is soft, doesn't snag, and has just the right amount of stitch definition. I will absolutely be working with this yarn again in the future. Don't just take my word for it; take a look at the finished product and decide for yourself.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tANwTRbsXPQ/WaoQncwJP7I/AAAAAAAADKc/ehhJ3cCaq6M-qvOpMV3ApICs1FziYRoFwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1216" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tANwTRbsXPQ/WaoQncwJP7I/AAAAAAAADKc/ehhJ3cCaq6M-qvOpMV3ApICs1FziYRoFwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3113.JPG" width="486" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SX562Tkbj0I/WaoQtXgmOFI/AAAAAAAADKg/UQQFhImdGbo4pD9PDGkCnvFGOs1gaRVkQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SX562Tkbj0I/WaoQtXgmOFI/AAAAAAAADKg/UQQFhImdGbo4pD9PDGkCnvFGOs1gaRVkQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3112.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e6ddeWNWoms/WaoQyZGm3bI/AAAAAAAADKk/1i0quxZfc_0RGJ4eihysgUc7lscHVlzFQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1475" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e6ddeWNWoms/WaoQyZGm3bI/AAAAAAAADKk/1i0quxZfc_0RGJ4eihysgUc7lscHVlzFQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3114.JPG" width="588" /></a></div>
<br />
Once again, I wholeheartedly recommend this delightful yarn. <br />
<br />Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-60785311565008781412017-08-27T09:41:00.000-07:002017-08-27T09:41:13.497-07:00Crochet in the Horror Movie "It Follows"When I was younger, I used to be afraid all of the time. Of EvErYtHiNg. I mean, I once stayed up all night because I heard a noise in the wall while reading Stephen King's <u>The Langoliers</u>. I would also sleep with all of the lights on after watching any movie with aliens in it, even if they were friendly. While I still have a few lingering fears, like large spiders and needles, I am so much more able to handle the freaky and the frightening than I used to be. It's glorious!<br />
<br />
I was recently watching an off-beat horror movie on Netflix called "It Follows." Surprisingly, the movie had a bunch of crochet in it. Here's a sampling:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IjyENBFu2a8/WYvsvQpQ9YI/AAAAAAAADGY/eds40zyD5ZUjsyBpggv-E4vgVzEertRDQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-08-05%2Bat%2B5.01.09%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="471" data-original-width="967" height="310" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IjyENBFu2a8/WYvsvQpQ9YI/AAAAAAAADGY/eds40zyD5ZUjsyBpggv-E4vgVzEertRDQCLcBGAs/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-08-05%2Bat%2B5.01.09%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jI5w7Fy0kYY/WYvs1amVN6I/AAAAAAAADGc/M5_VnpzSWHsAgV8-acI04Chts6qs_5h9QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-08-05%2Bat%2B5.30.41%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="457" data-original-width="794" height="368" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jI5w7Fy0kYY/WYvs1amVN6I/AAAAAAAADGc/M5_VnpzSWHsAgV8-acI04Chts6qs_5h9QCLcBGAs/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-08-05%2Bat%2B5.30.41%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sLi76K9amjI/WYvs6IcqL_I/AAAAAAAADGg/QyVgaWDf3QYia9Tx_tgCF_K-BL7MPwR1ACLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-08-05%2Bat%2B5.31.43%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="491" height="488" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sLi76K9amjI/WYvs6IcqL_I/AAAAAAAADGg/QyVgaWDf3QYia9Tx_tgCF_K-BL7MPwR1ACLcBGAs/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-08-05%2Bat%2B5.31.43%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jY9Q9h57UUM/WYvs_FCd5SI/AAAAAAAADGk/mnBi6haLLqsKg8BS5CmwKVqa77mJVJCPQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-08-05%2Bat%2B5.58.44%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="822" height="374" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jY9Q9h57UUM/WYvs_FCd5SI/AAAAAAAADGk/mnBi6haLLqsKg8BS5CmwKVqa77mJVJCPQCLcBGAs/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-08-05%2Bat%2B5.58.44%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-30348090616990534562017-08-18T22:59:00.001-07:002017-08-18T22:59:59.695-07:00Yayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirrors (with Bonus Crochet and Knitting!)I recently attended the <a href="http://kusama.site.seattleartmuseum.org/">Infinity Mirrors exhibit by Yayoi Kusama</a>, showing at the Seattle Art Museum. I love living in a city that is filled with such interesting and exciting things to do. This exhibit included many fabric-based pieces, so I thought it would be appropriate to share it with you. I tend to stick to fiber arts on this blog; if you'd like to see other interesting things I do and encounter, consider <a href="https://www.instagram.com/illuminatecrochet/">following me on Instagram</a>. I waited in line for two hours to get a ticket to the exhibit. It is only traveling to a few cities in the United States, so I feel lucky to have seen it.<br />
<br />
Yayoi Kusama is a Japanese artist who works with repeating patterns and colors. Her personal inspirations, philosophies, and experiences are quite interesting if you're inclined to do some internet research about her. She had a difficult upbringing and was a part of the counterculture. Today, she chooses to live in a psychiatric facility. Her exhibit is a wonderful example of the enrichment that those who struggle with psychological disorders can bring to the world, and specifically to art. Here are some highlights from my visit to her exhibit, along with a few extras from the rest of the museum. I even found some crochet and knitting!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MSp_JoJJAZo/WZfIVj88k1I/AAAAAAAADIk/SAOe-Rj22qwPOkRD3kBnTcxWrvnoO3GpACLcBGAs/s1600/mixed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MSp_JoJJAZo/WZfIVj88k1I/AAAAAAAADIk/SAOe-Rj22qwPOkRD3kBnTcxWrvnoO3GpACLcBGAs/s640/mixed.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
On display were many interesting painted pieces. All of the chunky-looking work was done with stuffed fabric, with painted designs added. They felt like they were alive. One can only imagine how labor-intensive they would be to put together.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KYujjVNYR2s/WZfJPM0AUQI/AAAAAAAADIw/UvZOmFtdZp4T0PruKoPboVt3WLcPgF4AQCLcBGAs/s1600/dots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KYujjVNYR2s/WZfJPM0AUQI/AAAAAAAADIw/UvZOmFtdZp4T0PruKoPboVt3WLcPgF4AQCLcBGAs/s640/dots.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Here is one of the infinity mirror rooms, again populated by friendly, squishy, fabric lumps. The experience of being in this field of polka dots was very interesting. This particular room was quite cheerful. Since I went to the museum sans my boyfriend or friends this time, I got to skip many lines and enter with other groups. Thus, I got to experience the rooms over and over. Delightful!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D3sn_imLCCM/WZfLOlQ_AWI/AAAAAAAADI8/A2mjtMjAmfI7KrLaMNNoxyEABQ3hAY6IQCLcBGAs/s1600/box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D3sn_imLCCM/WZfLOlQ_AWI/AAAAAAAADI8/A2mjtMjAmfI7KrLaMNNoxyEABQ3hAY6IQCLcBGAs/s640/box.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Both times I caught this room on camera, it was green. However, the lights flashed and changed in rainbows of colors. It was spectacular! Each mirror cube limited you to a short period of time, usually 20 to 30 seconds. I think the artist wanted this for several reasons. First, there were many people who wanted to enjoy the exhibit, so times had to be short. Second, if you looked too long in the rooms your eyes and brain might habituate. This means you would start to notice reference points, like the seams in the mirrors, and a bit of the magic would be lost. Finally, infinity is made more special when we only get glimpses of it. I left the exhibit with a craving for more, which would likely please Kusama.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6NrUeJZeN7w/WZfMi4lRJqI/AAAAAAAADJI/fw_caKwoWk09TlW5W1qATuIzaUrgz_U0ACLcBGAs/s1600/pink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6NrUeJZeN7w/WZfMi4lRJqI/AAAAAAAADJI/fw_caKwoWk09TlW5W1qATuIzaUrgz_U0ACLcBGAs/s640/pink.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
This whole section was love-themed and very sweet. I found this to be the most whimsical part of the exhibit. Also, I love the way that the horizon dips inside the mirror-sphere in the leftmost picture. It really gave me the sense that there was something beyond.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MQfumz-Zx30/WZfNGcU0k4I/AAAAAAAADJQ/4O2FK7EYeFIXX3IISU_TuhhLzmi16dEogCLcBGAs/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MQfumz-Zx30/WZfNGcU0k4I/AAAAAAAADJQ/4O2FK7EYeFIXX3IISU_TuhhLzmi16dEogCLcBGAs/s640/PicMonkey%2BCollage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
This is the Obliteration Room. It started out completely white. All of the dots that you see were added by museum patrons. I got to add my own dots, too!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_4hihimp9Vs/WZfNm9HlFaI/AAAAAAAADJY/u-wWuW-iM6gxs3bJe4zMBkhnKM-skGF6QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="644" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_4hihimp9Vs/WZfNm9HlFaI/AAAAAAAADJY/u-wWuW-iM6gxs3bJe4zMBkhnKM-skGF6QCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3034.JPG" width="536" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
This mirror room was my absolute favorite. It was so magical that my eyes misted over the first time I walked in. By now, you all know how space-obsessed I am. I think that this experience was the closest I have ever felt to being surrounded by stars. Since it was dark, you couldn't see the lines in the mirrors very much. It felt real, like I was really standing in a different realm for a few brief moments. I couldn't stop myself from using my singles-line privileges to view this room about five times in total. The whole exhibit was really wonderful.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dvQtVGIT1y8/WZfPSEnYzrI/AAAAAAAADJk/T6RNNf0hQ4Ip1C_-BmonNe0P8ThHtcw6ACLcBGAs/s1600/art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dvQtVGIT1y8/WZfPSEnYzrI/AAAAAAAADJk/T6RNNf0hQ4Ip1C_-BmonNe0P8ThHtcw6ACLcBGAs/s640/art.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Even though I had been on my feet for hours by this point, I made sure to stroll through the rest of the museum. Above is a small collection of art that made a particular impression on me, including a <a href="http://www1.seattleartmuseum.org/eMuseum/code/emuseum.asp?style=browse&currentrecord=1&page=search&profile=objects&searchdesc=Number%20is%202000.218&searchstring=Number/,/is/,/2000.218/,/0/,/0&newvalues=1&newstyle=single&newcurrentrecord=1">wood-paneled room from the late 1500s</a>. I suppose I really do love immersive experiences! SAM is very nicely curated.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EdqltMuQaOU/WZfQdNWjIpI/AAAAAAAADJw/S3skEHSbG6cEopk8Zn4I5l6oct-BQ10HACLcBGAs/s1600/crochet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EdqltMuQaOU/WZfQdNWjIpI/AAAAAAAADJw/S3skEHSbG6cEopk8Zn4I5l6oct-BQ10HACLcBGAs/s640/crochet.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I promised you crochet, and here it is! There was a super interesting piece on display that was an amalgamation of fabric swatches sewn together by Nick Cave. It included many knit swatches and also crochet rounds.<br />
<br />
My day at the museum was delightful indeed. I encourage anyone who gets the chance to go see Kusama's art.Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241896252474858543.post-17635379380778902462017-08-14T22:08:00.001-07:002017-08-14T22:08:57.554-07:00Sweet As Honey CommissionI have a dirty secret to share... I don't really enjoy doing commissions. Part of the reason that I love being a designer is that I never have to make the same thing twice. Instead, I get to come up with brand new ideas, occasionally working up other people's patterns as well. Commissions almost always end up being something I made in the past, someone saw, and then wanted me to make again for them. I value and thank all of my previous commission customers, but it is highly unlikely that I will accept another commission unless it is extremely unique.<br />
<br />
I love my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sweet-as-honey-baby-blanket-set-with-bee-applique">Sweet As Honey pattern</a>. It has brought so many people to Illuminate Crochet, and I am very thankful for that as well. It is fitting that my last official commission be based on that pattern. Alex, one of my best friends, wanted a miniature version of it to hang on his wall. I worked it up in Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light, a fingering weight yarn. Here is the finished product, along with a few process photos. The work will eventually be framed. I am happy that it is finally complete. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YyjtxIbDG94/WY-UuKIAcmI/AAAAAAAADH8/4O2GFgWgk1UQUw3aOd79L9G8nI-Ne6UkwCLcBGAs/s1600/Hex%2B1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="450" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YyjtxIbDG94/WY-UuKIAcmI/AAAAAAAADH8/4O2GFgWgk1UQUw3aOd79L9G8nI-Ne6UkwCLcBGAs/s400/Hex%2B1.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kbb2hhLwOO0/WY-Uzx76yoI/AAAAAAAADIA/m71an0tuU7sRLASGVpU3un1IqQXiYJt8gCLcBGAs/s1600/Hex%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="333" data-original-width="1000" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kbb2hhLwOO0/WY-Uzx76yoI/AAAAAAAADIA/m71an0tuU7sRLASGVpU3un1IqQXiYJt8gCLcBGAs/s640/Hex%2B2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UqoVBntmwVs/WY-U4-xB6uI/AAAAAAAADIE/xqVpXf8Qgv40WQrNassuVayZnfza0yjnACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2977.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="706" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UqoVBntmwVs/WY-U4-xB6uI/AAAAAAAADIE/xqVpXf8Qgv40WQrNassuVayZnfza0yjnACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_2977.JPG" width="588" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQSRKxF1eyg/WY-U_LI4C1I/AAAAAAAADII/xZuy8O16YRcjuE0VZ_zC5oVpqJQChIBzQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2976-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="784" height="390" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQSRKxF1eyg/WY-U_LI4C1I/AAAAAAAADII/xZuy8O16YRcjuE0VZ_zC5oVpqJQChIBzQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2976-1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GbssKghn3p8/WY-VDvb0NFI/AAAAAAAADIM/mqcIGeD1Us4YM7GhsSRt7AGyOMCcORs4wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GbssKghn3p8/WY-VDvb0NFI/AAAAAAAADIM/mqcIGeD1Us4YM7GhsSRt7AGyOMCcORs4wCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_2978.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Illuminate Crochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08750043590498446248noreply@blogger.com0