February 20, 2011

Knitting Hats!

I'm learning how to knit hats! This is my second attempt. The first hat was a little too big...this one looks to be just the right size!

February 13, 2011

Nature Walk Findings

Aren't these tiny pine cones precious?

Hubby, Westby and I went for a three-mile walk today in our favorite park. Near the end I stumbled upon these adorable little pine cones. I just had to collect a few!

Kindly,
Pam

February 11, 2011

Hand-Drawn Pillowcases

If you haven't already noticed, I am incapable of making one type of art, craft, etc. for too long. I always need a new exciting project. There are those tried and true items that I love to make and continue to improve on. But I also find myself searching for something new to keep my interest peaked.


These are my newest idea...hand-drawn pillow cases!

They are simple and use my imagery in a very cozy and fun way. A while back I purchased fabric markers which have totally opened my mind to unending possibilities. The most lovely characteristic of these pillows is that because they are hand-drawn each one will be unique....no exact duplicates here! I like to work out the layout in sketches before drawing directly on the fabric. The sketches above are the first of many before I actually create a pillow.

Now the difficult part...getting my sewing machine serviced before sewing the cases. I am terrible about that. I'm a self-taught, novice sewer. I learn how to make the things I want rather than learning how to sew...if that makes sense. Of course, along the way I learn a few proper techniques. I take the same approach to my machine (which I know must be shocking to those devoted sewers). I promise I am getting better. I simply need guidance for maintanence....I'll get there.


I am finding a way to translate my imagery into block prints. I love the process of lino (linoleum) cuts, which my husband essentially taught me how to do. Last year I began to make small prints on my handmade paper. Yesterday, I watched an amazing video in which the artist made a 30x27 inch print! Much larger than any one I've made! Needless to say, it inspired me to dream of ideas for larger prints and larger sheets of handmade paper.

I will, undoubtedly, be making lino cuts this summer when the studio warms up!

Kindly,
Pam

February 5, 2011

Cozy Crocheting Saturday!


It's been a dreary, foggy day which is perfect for getting cozy under blankets, watching movies and crocheting. This morning I made a trip to the yarn store with hubby and bought some new yarn. The yarn is a very soft, very homespun style yarn that is perfect for scarves and cowls. I've been using this yarn for years and never tire of it.



Two-toned scarves is something I've been experimenting with. I've been loving the results! This particular scarf looks great with the fabric flower broaches I made the previous week. I am quite happy that all my pieces are working so well together. As I've promised many times, all these items will be for sale in my Etsy shop once I establish it. There are just a few more things to work out before it opens.

Kindly,
Pam

P.S. The perfect compliment to knitting on a dreary day...a warm, rich cup of hot chocolate made with vanilla soy milk. Delicious!