Long Skinny Scarf

I love long, skinny scarves.  Actually, I love ALL scarves.  Especially for "fluffy" girls like me, they're a great accessory (hello, check out my photo to the right, mmmmk).  I like how a scarf can add a punch of color to any outfit.  Once the temp hits 60 degrees or less, I'm wearing a scarf.

Although I have tons of scarves, I keep making more. Here are a few new knit scarves that I made for my Etsy shop.  They're based on the throw I did over the summer.  No real pattern, more of an improv thing, combo of yarns and either knits, purls or increases and decreases.

The first one is 75 inches long (yep, taller than me!)  Click here for more.

The second one is 60 inches long (not quite taller than me).  Click here for more details.

I love all the options for wearing them!

Do you have a favorite scarf pattern I need to try?  If so, please let me know.

$60 Knitting Shopping Spree Giveaway

Just in time for Christmas, I'm happy to host a $60 shopping spree giveaway from Judy's Colors.  If you're not familiar with these, you have to check them out.  Judy has a great selection of knitting patterns and kits, from beginner to advanced.  She currently features 2 great options - stockings or mittens.  I had a chance to review and knit a stocking from the "Candy Cane" line, shown below:

I chose the pink and green one.  The directions were terrific, and easy to follow.  I did color a bit outside the lines, and chose to do my kind of stripes instead of following the color pattern provided.  Here's mine, pre-blocking:

I love the cuff, and the yarn is great to work with.  The blocking will make it look even better - here's a link to Judy's Facebook page with blocking instructions.

I was surprised at how quickly this knit up - only took about a week!  It's like making a giant sock where you don't have to worry about Second Sock Syndrome, although you may want to make another stocking when you see how fun the pattern is.

So, want to try this yourself?  See entry instructions below to win a one-time $60 shopping spree at Judy's Colors website.  I'll pick a winner on Friday, November 30th.  

a Rafflecopter giveaway



Please note: this prize is for a one-time shopping event and does not provide for credit, refunds or money back.

Christmas Decorations at Target

Found some great new decorations at Target yesterday.

Here are a few stockings I made - haven't decided whether to list them in my shop, or keep them.

Do you make or buy most of your decorations?

Snowman Wall Quilt or Table Runner

I Finally made a snowball block that I like.  And a snowman wall quilt / table runner.  That block and this idea have been on my mind forever, and I so wanted to try it.  Had a few issues with the half square triangles; however, the seam ripper solved those.  So glad to have finished my first holiday project of the year. Love how the snowman fabric my sis gave me last year sets off the blocks!

I added the noses with Wonder Under, then raw edge appliqued them.  The eyes and mouth are all buttons.  I had fun giving them each their own face.

I've already pieced my next holiday table runner - from the Winter issue of Quilts & More.    I'll share pics when it's done.

Have you made any Christmas or holiday themed projects yet?

Christmas Gift List Ideas

If you're like me, this is the time of year I start gathering photos and links to stuff I want from my hubby for Christmas.  I'm a firm believer that if you want something, you should make your desire crystal-clear.  If not, you'll end up with something he thinks you want, but you actually can't wait to return.  Save yourself the chore of acting happy with ugly sweaters or too big pants (two of my dad's favorite gifts for my mom).

Naturally, I highly encourage you to start your shopping at Etsy, even if it's not at my shop.  You'll find beautiful, unique things that you just can't find anywhere else.  For example, I found a listing for a print of Pyrex bowls today!

In fact, my hubby purchased at least half of my gifts from Etsy last year, and it was terrific.  Etsy sellers have a creative spirit, and a knack for making fun stuff!

Here are a few new items from my Etsy shop that may be nice for you or someone on your list:

Crafty-themed glasses cases

An Owl Tri-fold Wallet - this was fun to make!  I purchased the pattern from a fellow Etsy seller, who gave me permission to sell finished items.

A new design of my tablet/ Nook or Kindle Case  - I needed a place to hold my cords, stylus, etc. that I keep buying to go with my Kindle Fire tablet.

And, of course, I also offer custom fabric versions of all of these, too.  Just click on the "Fabric Choices" tab above to see all the options!