LikeClochework

I've moved!

2011-01-22T13:14:00.001-05:00

Hello, everyone! I moved my blog to my website and just realized that I never posted a message here. So sorry! Please feel free to check out my new site and blog. I also have a shop there with my patterns and some ready-made hats and accessories. Hope you'll visit!

Trunk Show!

2010-09-20T12:05:00.000-04:00

My trunk show with Stitch Sprite is coming up soon! I hope you can all stop by Hello Bluebird and check it out.

In other news, you may have noticed lately that on Twitter and Facebook I've been linking to my new website. The site has a shopping cart, blog, and events calendar, so please bookmark it for more up-to-date info. I will still occasionally update this blog with my musings and recipes (and new products, of course), but my main focus is going to be on the new site. Let me know what you think of it!

I see a pattern

2010-08-16T13:06:00.001-04:00

Dear Like Clochework fans, I have a special announcement to make! I've had quite a few requests over the past months for patterns of my hats, scarves, and other accessories, so over the weekend I officially launched the LC Pattern Shop on Etsy! I have three of my patterns up, with more to come in the next few weeks, so if you are a crocheter and want to make your very own Like Clochework hat, keep watching the new shop. Happy hatmaking!

It's a wash

2010-08-01T11:39:00.001-04:00

Well, if you haven't heard yet, Crafty By Nature is cancelled this month due to weather. I'm pretty bummed because I was all psyched to showcase my new products. So instead - and for this week only* - I'm offering a discount on my bracelets and headbands in my Etsy shop: $1 off each bracelet and $5 off each headband! Just include the code "CBNdiscount" in the note to seller box at checkout and I'll refund you through PayPal.

*August 1-7, 2010

NEW for August!

2010-07-31T20:32:00.000-04:00

Welcome to what's become my "monthly newsletter"! Got a little kick in the pants from Alex at Hello Bluebird today (chatting about blogging more often), so I'm really going to try harder with this.

On a happier note, I'm excited to announce two new products! First up are my crocheted bangle bracelets, which are made from cotton crochet thread and are really fun to wear (I didn't take mine off for almost a week). You can purchase them singly, but I recommend getting three because it just looks nice :-)

Next is my "Rachel" headband, which features three Irish crochet roses, again in cotton. I had a lot of fun choosing buttons to accent my initial four creations. The pictures don't do these justice; I'm hoping to get better ones tomorrow at Crafty By Nature, where I can talk friends into modeling.

Speaking of Crafty By Nature, I hope to see some of you there! Weather permitting, I'll be out at Shupp's Grove from 9-4:00 tomorrow along with my friend Spotted Hill Farm. I'll be offering a little discount on my bracelets and headbands, too, so stop by and take advantage of that!

The joy of pickles

2010-06-28T14:20:00.006-04:00

One of my favorite little foodie "extras" is pickles. Cucumbers, chow-chow, American, Japanese - doesn't matter, I love them all. Pickles can be anything: your traditional cucumbers, cauliflower, broccoli, radishes, peppers, beans (and if you mix them all together you get the aforementioned chow-chow).

Thanks to the abundance of my wonderful friend Donna's garden, I had the veggies I needed to do some pickling this weekend. I tried canning once and decided it's not really for me, so I like to make quick and easy refrigerator pickles instead. Anyone can throw these tasty treats together in 10 minutes or less, and you can throw in any veggies you want. They're great on their own, with a burger, over chicken salad, or thrown into the food processor and turned into relish.

Carrie's Sweet and Sour Pickles

INGREDIENTS
- 2 medium cucumbers, washed and sliced lengthwise
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cup vinegar*
- 1 cup water
- 1 T sea salt
- 1 T sugar
- 1/8 cup black peppercorns
- 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes
- several springs of fresh herbs such as dill, lemon thyme, bay leaves, etc.

DIRECTIONS
Pack vegetables, spices, and herbs loosely into jars or a an airtight container. Mix liquids, sugar, and salt in a seperate bowl and stir until sugar and salt dissolve. Pour over vegetables, seal containers, and allow to refrigerate for at least two (2) hours. Enjoy within two weeks (they won't last that long!).

*I used a mix of herbed white wine, cider, and distilled white vinegars. You can use whatever you like.

Not everyone is sweating their butts off

2010-06-25T10:52:00.003-04:00

Oh, oh look, I'm POSTING!!! (That's for you, Lori.) Before I get into the whole "what I've been doing the past month," I have a very special announcement to make:

IT IS WINTER IN AUSTRALIA!!! To help my friends in the Southern Hemisphere beat the winter blues, I am having a 25% off sale on select items in my Etsy shop, now through July 31. You do not have to live Down Under to participate. In fact, this is a really great opportunity for everyone to think ahead and stock up for the winter. Check it out!

Now, I'm not going to apologize for being absent for the past month or so. Seriously, friends, I have been busy. Here's a taste of what I've done:

- Started my own marketing/pr firm focusing on small businesses (more on that later, after I finish my web site!)

- Worked on print and web projects for my clients.

- Joined the team at Scoutie Girl as Tara's virtual assistant.

- Gone to a million farmer's markets. Not just gone - worked. I've been employed by a friend with great products!

- Started a web comic, which needs to be updated even more than this blog does.

- Had lots of ice cream and Rita's dates with my husband.

- Enjoyed good books and good friends.

What I have not done is vaccuum or dust my house, clean my kitchen, or update this blog. Somehow, I think this is understandable. I should probably shower, though. So go check out that sale already!

Two things

2010-05-25T19:10:00.003-04:00

1) My husband is taking me out for ice cream in just a little bit, which makes me very happy. Ice cream dinner!

2) I finished my East Coast Wrap, which I absolutely love. I promise to share the pattern as soon as I finish writing it up and figure out how to link up a PDF.

Better than Farmville

2010-05-13T11:57:00.003-04:00

It's been a busy month here at LikeClochework! Last weekend I was in charge of a Mother's Day craft show at Studio B and this weekend I will be at my friend Donna's farm fest! Actually, I've been doing quite a bit to help get ready for the festival, and I can heartily vouch for it being a wonderful event. There will be lots of animals (including lambs and newborn twin goats!), games and pony rides for the kids, food, farmers, and artisans. I'll be selling my hats as well as Donna's signature handmade, all natural soaps and lotions, and we're also featuring local jewelers, potters, glass artists, and even a local yarn and fabric shop. And a spinning demo! Ya'll better be there.

Today I am sending a package to Alaska, which makes me laugh because Mr. LC and I just watched a Discovery Channel special on how everything in Alaska wants to KILL YOU. I've come to the conclusion that Alaska is the United States' version of Australia, except there are real wolves instead of dingos and grizzlies instead of crocodiles. So, I hope my package makes it, and I hope my recipient survives long enough to wear it. If the avalanches don't get her, the mosquitos might...

The latest version of my "Pamela" hat, the bucket.

Mum's the Word

2010-05-07T16:50:00.003-04:00

Hello, everyone! This weekend I'm hanging out over at Mum's the Word, an awesome little show of handmade artisan goods at Studio B. Tonya Lov Jewelry, Stitch Sprite, Spotted Hill Farm, Loops and Links Design, and others are also here with me. If you don't have a gift for your mom yet or just want something lovely for yourself, stop on by! I bought something handmade for my mom :-)

Sneak Peek: Art Star

2010-04-28T12:56:00.003-04:00

Lots of picture posts lately! But it's been hopping here at LC headquarters. Here's a peek at what I'm making for Hello Bluebird's jaunt to Art Star Craft Bazaar.

April flowers

2010-04-22T19:03:00.000-04:00

Non-crochet craft time!

2010-04-19T10:35:00.005-04:00

Sorry I've been remiss with posts lately, my friends. Three or four weeks ago I ate what I thought was harmless gorgonzola cheese - only to find out later that gorgonzola is fed on wheat! I broke out in a rash all over my hands and am just now able to do some crochet again. Horrendous!

While I was convalescing, I was not idle. There's always something to be done around here! And for my birthday the other week I decided to try something entirely new to me: making a terrarium. It was a lot of fun, and now I am a little terrarium-happy. You can make one, too, with my easy little tutorial :-)

Carrie's Terrarium Tutorial

First, gather your goodies:
- clear glass jar, with or without lid
- plant that is half the size of the jar, or smaller
- pebbles
- sphagnum or spanish moss
- activated charcoal (only if jar has a lid)

Step 1: Layer pebbles in bottom of jar until you can't see any more glass. If your jar has a lid, sprinkle an even layer of activated charcoal over the pebbles. This is your draining and filtering layer.

Step 2: Cut a thin layer of moss and spread it over the pebbles and charcoal. The goal of the moss is to keep your soil from migrating into the drainage layer, so you don't want too little moss... but you also don't want it too thick, either.

Step 3: Take your plant out of its pot and gently remove the excess soil from around the root ball. Place plant in jar; fill in with the excess soil. Use your fingers to press down the soil evenly all around. If you want, you can now decorate your terrarium with rocks, a little garden gnome - get creative! Or leave it as it is.

Step 4: Pour a small amount of fresh water onto the soil around your plant and put the lid on your jar. You're done! Check the soil every few days; if it seems dry, add a little more water.

Notes:
- Always buy your jar first; it's easier to fit a plant to a jar than to find a jar to fit your plant.
- Jars with lids will "automatically" water your plant by recycling moisture. Jars without lids must be watered by YOU, and more often.
- If you can't find activated charcoal, try looking for activated carbon instead. It's the same thing, and you can find it in the aquarium aisle at your local pet store.

R is for Roadtrip, G is for Gluten

2010-04-01T10:49:00.001-04:00

I had an absotulely stellar time on my jaunt through Ohio this past week; lots of good friends and good times! My dear friend Melissa and I explored Columbus and found ZenCha Tea Salon, which I absolutely adored for their wide selection of properly prepared loose leaf teas. Spent some time with Rachel and her two adorable kids. Kudos to Rach and Greg for actually parenting their children - it's paying off! Angie and I went to Toledo and chatted about life and her poetry book, which is coming out this summer (I'm so proud of her!). Discovered all sorts of delicious things at Cincinnati's Findlay Market with Mary, and made semi-matching earrings with Sharon.

In some ways I wish I could have stayed longer, but it was so nice to come home and see my husband (who had been on a trip of his own) and catch up on our adventures.

In other news, a few days after returning from my trip, I was officially diagnosed as being gluten intolerant. Don't feel bad; it's relieving for me to know what's been making me sick and causing my horrible skin condition for the past 15 years! I've actually been having fun relearning how to eat and cook gluten-free and am thinking I'll post a new recipe here once in a while.

And now it's back to work! I promised Hello Bluebird some flower pins...

Road trip!!!

2010-03-18T23:05:00.002-04:00

I feel as though I use far more exclamation points than someone with an English degree should, but... alas. Truth be told, I am super crazy excited about my road trip, which I take every year, and upon which I am about to embark. I will be putting my Etsy shop into "vacation" mode, so the ordering system will be unavailable until Monday, March 29. Hopefully I will return refreshed and bursting with new ideas. Until then, enjoy these glorious weeks of spring!

Birds of a feather

2010-03-15T12:29:00.003-04:00

Yesterday I attended the first of what I hope to be many crafty meet-ups at Hello Bluebird. What a fun time! Approximately 20 ladies, all handmade business owners, gathered for a potluck brunch, item swap, and all around good time. Many of us had only met online or admired each other's work but had never met in person. There was a lot of "oh, YOU'RE so-and-so!" Tara from scoutiegirl posted a recap and pictures (I'm the one in the hat!) on her awesome blog, so check it out. Also, huge thanks to Stephanie Corfee for getting the ball rolling!

Am I blue?

2010-03-12T17:18:00.004-05:00

From top: Lotus Flower pin, "Millie" Slouch Beanie, "Pamela" Cloche

In the air...

2010-03-08T16:48:00.003-05:00

After all of the snow in February, we are finally in the midst of a glorious "warm" streak here in eastern Pennsylvania. The temperature has been in the 50s, the breeze has been light, and the birds are coming home and singing away on my rooftop. Hope springs anew!

Speaking of new, I have been hard at work on designs for spring and summer. In the past week I released two new hats: the "Pamela" summer cloche with buttons and the "Millie" slouch beanie. They are already posted in my Etsy shop and will also arrive at Hello Bluebird soon!

Excitement!

2010-02-26T22:22:00.002-05:00

Alicia's treasury made the front page of Etsy! And she wins my contest! Hooray!

Links for a snowy day

2010-02-25T13:03:00.004-05:00

I have just finished trudging through the fallling snow to deliver packages to the Post Office. Boy, it is chilly out there! And windy, my goodness. That'll be my exercise for the day (and maybe the week if it keeps coming down like this).

Exciting news of the day: I've been featured in an Etsy treasury! Check out Alicia's 70s-style treasury, and don't forget to pop in to her shop. If her treasury makes it to the front page, she'll get a free hat from me!

Also would like to point you all to my artist friend Stephanie Corfee's new website. It's chock full of good, clean lovliness. Be sure to check out her "Freebies" page!

Time to make some tea and snuggle in for what might be yet another blizzard. Spring, I miss you...

p.s. 100 posts! woo!

And the winner is...

2010-02-23T10:53:00.002-05:00

DRUMROLL, PLEASE!!!

The winner of my Flower Scarf giveaway is...

lauraslefthook!!! Congratulations!

Laura, e-mail me your address and color preference and give me about a week to make and mail.

And a huge THANK YOU to everyone else who participated in my giveaway and anniversary celebration. I had fun! Keep checking back for more sales and giveaways throughout the year.

New items and a GIVEAWAY!

2010-02-18T11:48:00.007-05:00

Happy one-year birthday to LikeClochework! In celebration, I am introducing two new items and running my second giveaway. I'm also running a sale in my Etsy shop with free gifts and free shipping. I am also offering a FREE HAT to the first person who gets me to the front page of Etsy (see details here).

NEW ITEMS
Introducing the "Pamela" flapper hat! This retro-inspired cutie is named after my mother, for whom - after much complaining and teasing on her part - I promised to name my next creation. Here it is, mom!

Also officially joining my repertoire is the "Flower Scarf," so named because you can roll this lacey lovely up into a flower. It looks lovely on your dresser when not in use.

GIVEAWAY
Oh yes, the giveaway! It's quite simple, really: Leave a comment on this post and you will automatically be entered to win one of my new "Flower" scarves. You have until February 22 at midnight (EST), after which my husband will pull a name from a hat. The winner will be announced the following day. That's it! Now go eat some cake and enjoy my birthday!

Snowy hugs and kisses for you

2010-02-10T15:59:00.003-05:00

Well, the "Hugs & Kisses from Studio B" show is up, even in this snowy weather! Many of you know that this show was my personal project, and I had a lot of fun putting it together. The snow kept everyone away today, but we'll be open tomorrow through Saturday for your Valentine's Day shopping convenience!

For more info, check out Studio B's website, blog, or Facebook event page. And there is always the fun little promo I put together, too!

Let's party like it's 1999

2010-02-05T15:19:00.003-05:00

LikeClochework's one-year anniversary is almost here!!! Ok, it's not until February 20, but I'm allowed to be excited, right? I'm planning a little virtual "party" with contests, giveaways, and sales. I may even make a cake. You should be excited, too!

Here's a taste of what I'm planning for Feb. 18-22:

- 20% off EVERYTHING in my Etsy shop! Even custom orders!

- FREE full-sized flower pin with every purchase.

- FREE SHIPPING on all purchases over $40.

- CONTEST: For my anniversary, I would (finally) like to make it to the front page of Etsy. If you put one of my pieces in your treasury and that treasury makes it to the front page (thus, putting LikeClochework on the front page), I WILL MAKE YOU A HAT OF YOUR CHOICE, completely free!

More to come!

Flamio!

2010-02-03T09:00:00.004-05:00

Introducing - and just in time for "Hugs & Kisses from Studio B" - the "Flames of Love" scarf! And in a brilliant demonstration of love, Mr. LC was kind enough to model it for my camera. Don't worry, I gave him his manhood back afterward.

Today I am also being featured in Etsy's Accessories showcase! Check it out here.

Introducing...

2010-01-22T12:35:00.003-05:00

...the "Nate" hat! More details at the shop.

2010-01-22T09:45:00.001-05:00

(P.S. Valentine's Day is coming)

Comics for a cause

2010-01-19T09:51:00.002-05:00

This morning as I was reading my favorite webcomic, the artist brought to my attention a very important project by the Comic Creator's Alliance, going on through January 24, 2010. In a nutshell, this is what these wonderful artists are doing:

There are currently 27 million enslaved people worldwide- more than double the number of enslaved Africans during the trans-Atlantic slave trade. UNICEF estimates that 1.2 million children every year are sold into slavery, most of it sexual. The US Department of Justice estimates 16,000 victims of human trafficking are brought into the United States every year.

We're a group of Web Comic Creators, who have come together, volunteering our artistic talents to raise money for the purpose of ending human trafficking in the world today.

That is a big goal and an extremely worthwile cause! At last tally, over $5,000 had been raised! To find out more or to donate, visit the CCA website. (You also get a really cool wallpaper background for donating any amount.)

New item!

2010-01-13T17:59:00.002-05:00

Really, I don't know what took me so long. I guess I thought everyone wanted hats and not mittens. Silly me! Anyway, LikeClochework is happy to offer the "Dorothy" mittens in a variety of colors and with your choice of needlefelted design. They are incredibly warm and can be made to match your LikeClochework hat.

2010-01-12T12:13:00.003-05:00

LikeClochework will be featured at this show along with BBBellezza and other local artists. Stop in and find something for your sweetie - or yourself!

The show runs for four days only:
Wed. and Thurs., Feb. 10-11 from 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Fri., Feb. 12 from 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. with a special champagne toast all day
Sat., Feb. 13 from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Newscast 2010

2010-01-04T11:29:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year, everyone! Thanks for your support and encouragement of LikeClochework over the past year - I couldn't have done it without you! Now that the holidays are over I can finally move my focus back to business and to YOU, my amazing friends and customers. I am planning quite a few changes, updates, and special "events" for the shop this year, but to get you started here are just a few:

1) Prices have gone up. No, don't be whining! It's for everyone's own good. As I've stated before, I started selling retail this past fall and realized that I need to change my shop prices to reflect my retail prices. Don't worry, it's not a big change, and my hope is that the increased pricing will actually allow me to offer my customers even better service, shipping, and packaging.

2) There is a SALE going on! I have reduced some prices and moved items to my "sale" category. Check it out and snag a deal.

3) It's almost birthday time. February 20 marks LikeClochework's first Etsy-versary, and I am planning a fun little "party" and sale. Details coming later!

I am tickled that I was finally able to get my artwork from Stephanie Corfee hung up in my living room. It looks fabulous and really ties in with my color scheme. New Year's Resolution: Spruce up my home. And now to take down the Christmas tree...

Shop here!

2009-12-08T14:08:00.003-05:00

I didn't post a "Laundry Day" this week (you'll notice, perhaps, that they come every other week... or so) because a) I forgot and b) I thought it would be fun instead to create a holiday shopping guide. So if you live in southeastern Pennsylvania and want to find the best presents for the folks on your list, read on for my personal picks.

Hello Bluebird
HB is an indie and handmade boutique located at 609 Penn Avenue in West Reading. Alex is super friendly and has a little something for everyone. She also specializes in products made right here in Pennsylvania (including my hats). For more info, visit hellobluebird.net.

Edna's World
Love the look of 60s and 70s mod? Edna's, tucked away at 413 E. Philadelphia Avenue in Boyertown, has the real deal - and fab prices! Proprietress Donnis has everything vintage, from clothing and accessories to housewares and even furniture. Call 610-473-3362 for more info and hours. She is usually open Friday evenings and Saturdays.

Studio B
You had to know this one was coming. But before you blow it off as too expensive, let me fill you in on a little secret: art lessons are immensely wonderful gifts for any age, and Studio B offers classes for all ages and skill levels. Also, the current show of small-priced works offers art for under $200 - an affordable investment you can give to someone special! Visit studiobbb.org for more information and a class list.

In other news, my friend (and gallery director) Sue wins the Awesome Person of the Week Award for gifting me her old old Dyson vacuum. Yes, it is held together with duct tape, but it is still hands-down the best vacuum I have ever owned! Now if only I can figure out how to release the locking mechanism...

Final artwork

2009-12-06T13:17:00.004-05:00

I was finally able to take some pictures of my completed, framed artwork. I apologize that they are not the greatest quality pictures; I'll try to take better ones when I have a little more time!

Light

Dark

Life

Death

If I haven't mentioned it, these are all on display right now as part of the "Members & Friends Showing of Small-priced Works" at Studio B in Boyertown, PA. They will hang until the beginning of January along with approximately 200 other amazing (and amazingly priced) artworks. If you're in the area, stop by and check out the show!

Opposite day

2009-12-01T15:11:00.006-05:00

I promised you'd get a glimpse of my current art projects, so here you go. These four paintings are parts to a fiber/watercolor collage I'm working on. If you can't tell from the names, it's a series of opposites :-) Now to finish the fiber elements!

life

death

light

dark

Ready, set, break!

2009-12-01T10:47:00.003-05:00

Even though I'm taking a little break from hat-making right now doesn't mean I've stopped thinking about Like Clochework. Au contraire, my friends. I am dreaming up all manner of fun hats and headpieces and packaging ideas that will make your pretty little heads spin! Sadly, I probably won't get around to any of them until after the first of the year, so you'll just have to wait until then.

Speaking of next year, if you haven't visited my shop lately and seen the announcement, my prices will be going up a bit in 2010. I am selling retail now and really need to change my prices to reflect that. So if you have your eye on something on my Etsy shop, you may want to consider purchasing it soon if you want to save a little cash. The price change will be good for my customers in a lot of ways, though, because it will allow me to provide better services, prettier packaging, and maybe even some free shipping. So if you want all of those things, by all means wait until next year!

Today I am planning to do some painting for the first time in a long time. Now that I think about it, it's been a year and a half since I last pulled out my watercolors and brushes. Wow. And I want to get four paintings done today. I hope I am not overly ambitious...

A day in the life

2009-11-27T16:16:00.002-05:00

I have been far too busy to post these past couple of weeks! Holiday shows at the gallery have really been heating up and I've been writing press releases, creating PR e-mails, and helping set up and run shows (we have one going on right now but I was given a chance to run home, eat, and take a nap). I'm taking a little break from hatmaking right now to give my hands a rest and to work on some other art projects that have been bursting to get out of my head. BUT I just took a moment to check handmadeinpa.net and found that my Day In the Life feature is up! So check out a typical busy day in my crafting life and come back here soon to see some hints of my art projects.

Meantime, there's a show to put on...

Laundry Day: Nov. 16

2009-11-16T12:50:00.003-05:00

1. Birds to Stars tee by Basho, $30
2. Music Paperbird earrings by Munieca, $6
3. Swallow messenger bag by Deadworry, $40
4. Hoots and Oaks charm necklace by Lara Lewis, $21

Show's over

2009-11-14T16:57:00.002-05:00

Had a great time at the Bethel UMC bazaar today! Sold two hats and a cowl, which is about my average for a show, so not bad. Plus, they had really great baked goods, so I was set. Thanks to Sue, Beth, and my mom for stopping in to say "hi," and thanks to everyone who tried on hats or took business cards.

Now it's on to the box of inventory I'm putting together for Hello Bluebird. Then, maybe, I'll take a little break...

Craftapalooza!

2009-11-13T19:17:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow is my show at Bethel United Methodist Church in Spring City, and after much unnecessary stressing I am finally set up and ready. Directions are below if you live in the area and would like to attend (it's from 9-2:30). I got a sneak peek of the show tonight during setup and saw some neat handmade stuff (and some slightly tacky stuff as well, but then this IS a craft bazaar). It looks like half the other churches in the area might be hosting bazaars as well, so you could totally tag team it up.

Directions
- Get on Route 100 South
- Turn left onto PA-23 E/Ridge Street
- Travel approx. 2.4 miles and turn left on Bethel Church Road (you will see a sign for a local bookstore on the right)
- The church is half a mile down the hill, on the left

if you need to look up your own directions, the address is 952 Bethel Church Road, Spring City, PA 19475.

More black and white

2009-11-08T12:12:00.002-05:00

Even though the Black & White Party was canceled, the show is still on in Alabaster's gallery until January. So yesterday I took over the four hats I was able to complete. You saw one of them the other day; here are the rest. I'm particularly fond of the white bucket.

Black & White all night

2009-11-06T12:35:00.006-05:00

Working hard and - as usual - up to the last minute on my hats for tomorrow's Black & White Party at Alabaster's. As far as I know tickets are still available, but I have no further information. If you are interested in coming (and I really encourage you to come as it's always a good time at Alabaster's) please check out their web site and give them a call.

My first completed hat for the show, the "Winter Rose" Cloche. The husbands says it's the best one I've ever made. He is sweet.

UPDATE: The party has been cancelled; Alabaster's did not sell enough tickets. However, my work will still be on display in their gallery, so please do stop in, enjoy some lunch and a cup of tea, and check out the Black & White Show.

Introducing the "Maude" slouch beanie!

2009-11-02T15:49:00.004-05:00

Find out more here.

Laundry Day: November 2, 2009

2009-11-02T12:38:00.007-05:00

1. Plum Pinstripe Scarf by EmmaDear, $28
2. Screenprinted Jersey Scarf by Megan Lee Designs, $27
3. Japanese Star Moss Scarf by Xenotees, $22
4. Pink and Gray Cowlneck Top by SewNasty, $25
5. Whips N Chains Scarf Set by Glory by Jeannie Lee, $34

Laundry Day is a new feature I will try to post every Monday. It will contain some of my favorite handmade and vintage finds.

Up & Coming

2009-10-31T14:13:00.004-04:00

In brief, here is my "LikeClochework Appearance Schedule" for the season so far:

* Nov. 7 - Black & White Party at Alabaster's Arts & Tea in Pottstown, PA (http://alabastersartsandtea.com)

* Nov. 14 - Craft Bazaar at Bethel United Methodist Church in Spring City, PA (http://bethelumchurch.com)

More to come, I hope...

Today the rain stayed away long enough for me finally to set up at the Boyertown Farmer's Market. Sadly, Becky from EmmaDear was unable to join me, but it was a good - albeit windy - day anyway. I actually didn't expect to sell anything, but my white cloche with the black needlefelted vines sold, as did a black and grey pom-pom hat that I just finished this week. Huzzah! I am always pleased when my hats find good homes.

By the way, shout out to Mike, who apparently now reads my blog ;-)

This Saturday... finally!

2009-10-29T18:56:00.002-04:00

Well, it looks as if the weather is going to stay nice this weekend, which means I will finally be able to take my hats to the Boyertown Farmer's Market on Saturday! Good thing, too, because this is the last regular market of the season. EmmaDear may or may not be joining me, but either way you are all invited to come out from 10-1:00, try on some hats, maybe buy some presents (for yourselves or others), and enjoy the market. As an extra plug, the folks from M&B Farview sell some yummy soups and fresh-off-the-grill items, so come for lunch!

New items!

2009-10-28T11:37:00.004-04:00

I just added a couple of new items to my Etsy shop!

This little cutie is named "Bethany" after my fun and funky sister.

A new, puffy twist on the classic "Millie" beret.

The Black Mage Hat

2009-10-25T17:53:00.005-04:00

It's finished! some pictures of my awesome felted Black Mage hat, with vintage art deco buckle and purple fabric ribbon. Yes, I made the rest of the costume, too - it was the best I could do at the last minute!

I am so ready to take over the world now...

Tomorrow is cancelled!

2009-10-23T18:00:00.004-04:00

Actually, it's most likely just postponed until next Saturday (Oct. 31). It is supposed to rain and even thunderstorm tomorrow, so unless the sun overpowers all, Emma Dear and I will not be making our scheduled appearance at the Boyertown Farmer's Market. Boo to you, bad weather!

It's a two-post day!

2009-10-23T14:02:00.002-04:00

Just wanted to show off my latest, which I've finished uploading to my Etsy site. Enjoy!

I am a nerd

2009-10-23T11:32:00.008-04:00

Runner up for this week's Awesome Person Award (and she would have won if she'd chosen any other week to be awesome) is my Aunt Steph for gifting me a really cool set of vintage crochet hooks. Most of them are so tiny I may never be able to use them, but goshdarnit I'm gonna try! My favorite is an ivory hook with a carved end, probably about a size C. Really, really neat.

In other news, I am a huge nerd. Some of you will say, "Well, duh!" But for the rest of you who don't know me... now you know. My geekery goes beyond sci-fi shows (which I could discuss with you at length, but won't) and into the realm of online gaming. No, I'm not talking about Bejeweled. I mean MMORPGs.* My husband has played these for years, and he has specifically played Final Fantasy XI since probably the day before it came over from Japan. And guess who decided, a little over two years ago, to buy an XBox and join him in the virtual world of mages and monsters? Oooh, that's right - pick me.

How is this relevant to my work at present? Well, in spite of prepping for a show this weekend (which will probably be canceled due to rain) and crafting new inventory for multiple retail locations, I am now embroiled in the venture of creating a Black Mage Hat (I play a max-level BLM in the game. For those of you who need help, it's a dark magic user. With FIRE.). But wait! It's not just any Black Mage hat; this is the high-level Relic hat, which is so much better than the standard high-level hat. Let's compare:

The typical BLM hat, which I will admit has some pretty sweet stats.

But look at this:
Who wouldn't want this? +5 Enfeebling? +10 Elemental??? You could take over the world with this hat!

So that is what I am making, with Halloween and the local parade and our annual harvest party in mind. And I'll probably wear it while gaming, too. And maybe to the store once in a while...

*Massive Media Online Role-Playing Games

Hooked on stash

2009-10-20T15:10:00.002-04:00

My friend Donna wins this week's Awesome Person Award! (You didn't know I handed out awards, did you?) She was destashing and kindly GAVE me a bag full of squishy, yummy, yarny goodness: a little Noro, some Knit One, Purl Two, a skein of Araucania, and a whole mess of some sort of peach-colored yarn from Germany. It was like ultimate trick-or-treating, and I didn't even have to dress up! So thanks, Donna, you rock my sock yarns.

Today I am working on some new scarves and cowls, and may start in on a few cloches this evening. Wool is on sale right now and I have been given permission by the Budget Master to purchase some. So I'm off to shop and snuggle yarns...

And the weather defeats me

2009-10-17T20:47:00.004-04:00

I am so, so tired. This cold, rainy weather we've been having lately really has me down; all I want to do is curl up under two or three blankets and take a nice, long winter nap. Today I did my usual volunteering stint at our local farmer's market - out in the cold and wind and rain - and I am beat! It took me several hours, lots of blankies, a nap, and some hot potato soup to warm me up. And now that I can finally move my fingers again, I think it's time to get back under the blankets and work on some cozy cowls so others can stay warm this winter.

Next Saturday, weather permitting, my friend Becky of Emma Dear and I will be selling our work at the Boyertown Farmer's Market from 10-1:00. If you're in the area, come visit with us and enjoy the other vendors and farmers at the market!

Special plug

2009-10-09T09:33:00.003-04:00

By the way, my very cool aunt has started a blog all about her life as a vintage seller. If you've ever wondered how much that "old thing" in the attic is worth or how to sell your vintage items, this is the place for you! Check her out at everythingvintagesteff.com.

For treasure hunters

2009-10-09T09:21:00.003-04:00

Well, no one has purchased "Lil' Punkin" yet, but it certainly is getting some attention! Two Etsians have featured it in their treasuries in the past week: rippleffect and tisserande. Follow the links to check out their treasuries and to see the other fine artists whose work they've compiled.

Today, speaking of pumpkins, I am going to learn how to make a pumpkin pie from scratch!

CBN Roundup

2009-10-07T13:54:00.004-04:00

We had gorgeous weather and a great time on Sunday at the season's last Crafty By Nature! Becky from EmmaDear and I teamed up for the day and had what I think was one of the lovliest displays there. Below are some pictures to recap the event.

From top: A poorly pieced-together panoramic of our display; Closeup of our display; Becky models my "Winter Warmth" hat; Cash, son of brookiellen, shows off "Lil' Punkin"

Heeeeeeere's Punkin!

2009-10-02T13:42:00.003-04:00

"Lil' Punkin" is finished! Hopefully he'll have a "Lil' Candy Corn" cousin soon.

An almost complete work-in-progress. I'm really loving how it's coming along!

Lil' punkin

2009-10-01T00:35:00.002-04:00

Tonight, after a fancy dinner of Reuben sandwiches and friend chicken at the local diner, I embarked upon my plan to make a felted pumpkin hat. I've never made a child's hat before, so it was a new, albeit cute, challenge. "Lil' Punkin" is now drying on a small watermelon because I don't own a hat form or foam head small enough. Once hat is finished, I will take a picture of it for you, then fill the melon with vodka and place it in my freezer, to be eaten in celebration after I make my millions at Crafty By Nature on Sunday.

New hats completed!

2009-09-30T16:30:00.004-04:00

I just finished the two cloches from the "in progress" photos in my previous post. Take a look! I'm calling them my "Windy" cloches.

(please excuse the clutter in the background - I have yarn everywhere!)

If anyone in the Boyertown, PA area is interested, I am looking for hat models for my Etsy shop photos. My previous model went off to college. I can't pay you anything, but I will treat you to coffee.

In progress

2009-09-30T14:46:00.001-04:00

I've been working hard this week with new products and ideas for fall and especially for the Crafty By Nature show on Sunday. Below are some images of things in progress. More to come!

Sales!

2009-09-21T23:49:00.002-04:00

Wow, do I have some sales going on right now! First off, all orders of $40 or more get FREE SHIPPING this month. And it's also free shipping to anyone who wants to come pick up their order at Crafty By Nature on October 4. Secondly, all of my cotton hats are 25% off now through October. Only a couple are in the Etsy shop right now, but I'll have a few more popping up as soon as they come back from the NJ shop next week (I'm changing up my inventory there). I'm thinking about a sale of some sort in October, too, but haven't settled on anything yet. And, of course, there's always a free mini pin with any online purchase!

Now you are in the "know."

The mad hattery begins

2009-09-20T21:57:00.003-04:00

I have so much to do! With Crafty By Nature, retail stores, and my Etsy shop, I feel as though all I'll be doing for the next few weeks is making hats, gloves, and cowls. Right now three of my new "Paisley" cloches are in the works, in some very wonderful fallish colors. I just finished a new fingerless glove pattern and a cowl pattern, so I'll be making up some of those as well. And today I came up with a nice little cable pattern that might end up on some pieces in the near future.

Plus, I figured out what I want to do with all the vintage pillowcases I have sitting around. You'll see soon! I hope...

This weekend I did take the time to make something for myself: a lovely, lacey cowl worked up with recycled silk I purchased from craftyyarn. It's so soft and wonderful - I wish I had more of the yarn!

Custom by nature

2009-09-16T16:54:00.003-04:00

As the animated button on the left shows, I've just signed up for October's Crafty By Nature market! On October 4 I will be at Shupp's Grove from 9-4:00 along with many other talented artists and craftspeople. Food and restrooms are available, and the antiques and collectibles market will also be open, so come and spend the day!

Now, for those of you who have been eyeing up my hats or considering a custom order, consider this: If you place your order before Sunday, September 27, you have the option of picking up your purchase at Crafty By Nature. You can pay me ahead of time through Etsy, or you can pay me when you pick up, but either way I will have your item(s) packed up and ready to go! That's like free shipping plus an extra day of fun at the Grove. Think about it!

And the winner is...

2009-09-13T01:01:00.004-04:00

...Donna!!! Congratulations, you win one of my newly designed Shelly Caps! We will be in touch :-) Thanks to my husband for drawing the name for me. And happy International Crochet Day to everyone, as well - I hope you all got some crocheting in today.

I spent the day in the rain at the Montgomery County Scottish-Irish Festival, to which we will return tomorrow, hopefully in the sunlight. We came home earlier than we had planned, and I was going to make myself a black and white hat and scarf set (for Cornwall, One and All), but alas! I have no suitable black yarn at the moment. So instead I got out the sewing machine and made myself a purple plaid skirt to wear tomorrow. Perhaps I'll pair it with my almost-not-tacky crochet Irish Rose vest for a truly... "unique" look.

Don't forget the GIVEAWAY!!!

2009-09-08T16:11:00.001-04:00

Just a reminder to enter my International Crochet Day Giveaway. You have until midnight on Saturday, September 12!

Crafty ones

2009-09-06T17:46:00.004-04:00

Just got back from Crafty by Nature and I am tired. It was a great day, gorgeous weather, fine company, made several sales and passed along my info. Definitely worth it! I am considering going next month, too, for the final CBN of the year. If you're in southeastern PA (or don't mind a road trip), you should absolutely check out this event! The larger part of Shupp's Grove also has antiques and collectibles as well as food and fairly nice restrooms, so you can make a day of it.

Amanda Rae from changeofkey trying on my newest cloche creation (you can find it at Hello Bluebird!)

Katie from SewNasty and friend Dalanna in the hats they purchased

Crafty By Nature

2009-09-04T10:27:00.002-04:00

A last-minute turn of events has placed me at Crafty By Nature this Sunday! While I was at Hello Bluebird in West Reading last night, celebrating their grand opening and enjoying a "hot" date with my husband, stellar artist Stephanie Corfee offered me her spot. It's absolutely perfect because my participation in Boyertown's Oktoberfest later this month fell through, to my disappointment. So now we enter the whirlwind of preparations: picking up hats from Alabaster's (my contract with them is up), gathering items for my booth, making a few more hats/gloves/scarves, printing signage, etc. If you're in the area, come see me and all the other wonderful artisans at Shupp's Grove on Sunday!

Crochet Day GIVEAWAY!

2009-09-01T16:49:00.003-04:00

Here it is, my friends, the giveaway you've all been waiting for! In honor of International Crochet Day on Saturday, Sept. 12, I will give away one of my new Shelly Caps*. All you have to do is leave a comment on this post telling me your favorite yarn or fiber (or e-mail likeclochework@gmail.com). It's that simple! At midnight on Sept. 12 I will put all the names into a hat and my extraordinarily talented husband will draw a name from said hat. Winner will be announced on Sunday, Sept. 13. Let the games begin!

*I choose the color, you choose the size.

Oh, frabjous day

2009-08-31T14:37:00.004-04:00

Working on some Shelly Caps for my Etsy shop - made one last night out of a very lovely lavender alpaca-merino blend, perfect for cooler weather. I think I might also make up some coffee cup sleeves for my ReEdited shop and I am considering a possible promo for International Crochet Day, which is coming up quickly on September 12.

This weekend was great for business, at least for me: I found out that one of my hats sold from the NJ shop and also signed in to my e-mail yesterday to discover that I had sold a top through ReEdited. Yay for a little extra cash in the bank!

Hoodie pics, at last

2009-08-28T15:49:00.004-04:00

I have submitted the design for publication in Tension magazine. If they don't want it I'll try to publish it through Ravelry.

FREE SHIPPING...

2009-08-28T13:57:00.002-04:00

...on all orders of $40 or more during the month of September. Take advantage of this special offer now!

Grand Opening!

2009-08-28T00:14:00.001-04:00

I finished my hoodie! Pictures coming soon, I hope. Meantime, an announcement:

WiP - My first "big" design

2009-08-27T14:43:00.004-04:00

Inspired by the designs I've seen and worked on in Sys Fredens' "Comtemporary Crochet" book, I began designing a little hoodie of my own. I think I might actually try to get it published because I really love it. Here's a glimpse of the work in progress:

After this picture was taken I added a ribbed bottom and worked the edging and buttonholes. All that's left are the pockets and the buttons themselves and it will be ready to wear!

And here is the piece that, believe it or not, inspired my hoodie in the first place: my Sys Fredens V-Neck Top in ivory recycled cotton.

Stormy weather

2009-08-19T08:43:00.002-04:00

A ridiculously powerful storm ripped through my town last night, leaving quite a bit of damage and everyone within a 2-3 mile radius without power. Our building was undamaged, though the strength of the wind actually forced water under our front door and through the edges of the windows. Sadly, my Hard Bean Cafe sustained roof and structural damage, as did the Rhoads Opera House next door and quite a few vehicles in the vicinity. My husband and I grabbed as many essentials as we could find in the dark and then evacuated to a friend's house for the night. Now I'm sitting in her kitchen, watching workers clean up the golf course behind the house, and waiting to hear if our power has been restored yet...

New hat pattern = many joys

2009-08-14T10:55:00.002-04:00

It's such a simple thing, but I think it's going to re-energize my fall hatmaking regimen. You see, after you make the same thing so many times, it gets a little... well, boring. And I was getting bored with my hats. Don't get me wrong, I sill love, love, love them! But I can only make the same hat so many times in a row before I voluntarily have my fingers chopped off. So I took a little break from the hats, as I've mentioned before, and did some sewing instead.

But yesterday I had a breakthrough: A new idea for a hat! And it is a very simple sort of hat, but I love it and am planning to make more for my Etsy shop as soon as I have a moment. Hooray for hats!

For now I'm calling it my Shell Cap. Here is a preview:

Hello there, bluebird

2009-08-07T17:58:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I had the opportunity to take some of my hats over to Hello Bluebird in West Reading. Already I can tell it's going to be an absolutely fabulous shop! I had to hold back the drool as I got a sneak peek at some of the other items that will be for sale. If you live in the area or are ever through for a visit, this is a must-stop! Grand Opening is on Thursday, September 3 during Penn Avenue's First Thursday event, and many of the artists/crafters will be there (including me!).

Today I finished my Sys Fredens V-Neck Top, and I love it! I think I'm going to make another with some tweaks, including a hood. Pictures are forthcoming.

I'm not dead, I'm having an affair...

2009-08-04T23:49:00.003-04:00

...with another project, that is! Besides hats, another of my many loves is fashion. I make a lot of my own clothing and am constantly visiting our local thrift stores to see what I can find - and sometimes to see what I can use to make something else! After a long time thinking and dreaming about it, I finally decided it was time to take the plunge and launch ReEdited, my very own collection of recycled and upcycled fashions. Check out a little of what I've been doing at ReEdited.etsy.com. More to come soon!

I have also been working on some new hats for Hello Bluebird, a new handmade/indie shop opening up in West Reading. And of course I'm still trolling along on my Sys Fredens V-Neck Top, which is very close to being almost done. Did I mention I taught myself needle felting? I think I need a nap.

What will you wear?

2009-07-27T16:41:00.003-04:00

I've posted a new poll and I hope you all will help me out by answering honestly. What hats will you wear this fall? Feel free to comment here and tell me what fabrics and colors you like, too! As always, I appreciate any help you can give me as I plan out my seasonal hatmaking ventures.

And with fall in mind, I have also been planning out my crochet wardrobe. I love simple clothing designs, and have recently fallen in love with patterns by designer Sys Fredens. Her book came in the mail just the other week and I absolutely MUST make almost everything in it! I've set up a little schedule for myself, with deadlines in September, October, and November. Ambitious? Yes! But it's going to be so much fun!

Today I had a strong hankering for tea and scones, so I whipped up an all-natural box mix I found in the pantry. Unfortunately, there was no expiration date on the package, and I think the mix may have gone bad... I ate two scones and feel a little funny in my tummy now. Oh dear...

Sick day scarf

2009-07-23T00:23:00.005-04:00

Guess who picked up a bout of the ickies this week? Yup, me! I felt awful for two days and stayed cooped up in the house, napping under extra blankets. But I did find the time to cheer myself up with this lovely little project:

This is Tracy St. John's "Emerald Scarf" pattern from the Spring 2009 issue of Interweave Crochet, but I like to call it my "Ginkgo Leaves Scarf" because that's what I think the little fans in the body of the scarf look like. I'm so happy with it! And I feel much better, too :-)

Dodging raindrops

2009-07-17T16:38:00.002-04:00

Had lunch with my friend Laura today, which was wonderful fun in and of itself, and afterward we had a little photo shoot. I've been wanting to rephotograph some of my older hats for my Etsy shop (and a few new ones, too), and today was the perfect day for pictures. We finished up just as the first rain drops began to fall!

It's the Nannerpuss!

2009-07-08T21:24:00.006-04:00

Taking a little break from making hats (since I'm up to my eyeballs in them right now) and working on some selfish projects and our SnB's traveling scarf project. I need to find a crochet stitch that matches the one scarf's K2P2 pattern... have some thoughts, but am still playing with it. Kinda frustrating, really.

While I was at Inside the Cherry Cupboard on Tuesday, I started working on Doris Chan's Fan and Petal Neck Lace using Aunt Lydia's bamboo crochet thread. I think it's going to be my Tuesday/Thursday project until it's finished. Not sure what, exactly, I'll wear it with when it's done, but I really love the way it's turning out.

Today I worked on perfecting my banana bread recipe, among other things. Try it out and tell me what you think!

Banana-Chip Bread

Ingredients
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup organic cane sugar
2 eggs from my friend Bea's chickens
3 overly ripe bananas, mashed
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups organic wheat flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup Seven Stars organic whole milk yogurt
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
1/4 cup small cacao nibs
1/2 cup oats

Directions
1) Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease four small loaf tins with canola oil spray.

2) In a large bowl, cream together butter, sugar, and eggs. Stir in bananas and vanilla. Sift in flour and baking soda; mix well. Blend in yogurt, chocolate chips, cacao nibs, and oats. Pour batter into prepared tins.

3) Bake in preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into center of loaves comes out clean. Cool on wire rack before removing from pans. Enjoy!

Moving on over

2009-07-01T10:41:00.002-04:00

Now that I work/volunteer/shop-sit part time at Inside the Cherry Cupboard, I've decided to move my hats from Hard Bean to there. I was never sure I wanted my hats at Hard Bean anyway just because they could get dirty or have coffee spilled on them or get squooshed about by small, unattended children. At Cherry Cupboard, I can keep an eye on them, actually talk to people about my business, and the hats fit in better with the shop's vintage/antique vibe. They also have lots of nice, fancy mirrors for admiring yourself in a lovely hat.

If you've never been to Inside the Cherry Cupboard, it is located at 9 S. Washington Street in Boyertown, PA and features antique and vintage jewelry, accessories, housewares, and furniture along with other random little treasures. It is a fantastic shop, and I am not just saying that because I work there! Our regular hours are currently Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Friday 1-5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday by chance or appointment.

Speaking of hats, today I must go visit Pamela at Alabaster's to pick up my hats from the weekend show. Oh darn, afternoon tea! ;-) I wonder what kind of scones she's whipped up today?

Tutorial love

2009-06-30T16:10:00.002-04:00

More love from Tara at handmadeinpa.net! Click here to see. I should make a quick note here, though, that my tutorial isn't technically "wet felting," it's actually "fulling." Wet felting is a technique that uses un-crocheted/-knitted roving. Just so there's no confusion :-)

"Art of Distinction" this weekend was rather a bust; nothing sold from anyone in the Alabaster's Collective, at least not as of 3:30 on Sunday when I left my shift at the show table. If anyone knows of any upcoming craft/art shows that might be more receptive to my work, I'm all ears.

Handed off my traveling scarf at our Stitch n' Bitch meet on Sunday and was pleased to find that the knitting ladies were not truly offended by my crochet lace "meanness" (I really didn't think they would be). We're always up for a needle arts challenge!

This week I am taking another much-needed break from crochet and am instead baking my heart out and researching needle felting. Must find me some felting needles, yessiry...

Why I am mean

2009-06-26T22:28:00.003-04:00

I am a mean, mean person. And not only that, I'm also a mean crocheter. Let me 'splain.

A bunch of the ladies from my local stitch n' bitch group thought it would be fun to do a non-traveling scarf project. If you're a member of Ravelry you might be familiar with this concept: A limited number of people sign up for the group and they each start the first few inches of a scarf. They document what needle/hook they used, what yarn, what stitch, etc. and they also write down their preferences for their personal scarf (which they were kind enough to start for everyone). It all gets zipped up in a big plastic bag and mailed on to the next person, who adds another few inches, and so on and so forth until it's gone through the entire group and comes back to you.

Or, to save on postage, we thought we'd do our own traveling scarf - except we'll just pass ours off at stitch n' bitch meets instead of entrusting them to the postal service.

So why am I mean? Well, I can't actually wear most animal fibers (unless they've been felted), so I'm asking everyone please to use natural plant fiber or very soft acrylic. That's not very mean, you say. No, it isn't.

Here's the kicker: the yarn must be lace- or fingering weight. Because the entire scarf is to be made of LACE. The ladies is my group are almost exclusively knitters. Do you know how much harder it is for knitters to do lace? And I started them out with a nice little crochet lace motif - and some poor soul is going to have to cast on to it! The thought sends me into spastic, evil giggles. he he heeee...

And now you know why I am mean.

Goldilocks and the Three Hats

2009-06-26T12:28:00.003-04:00

The first fedora I made was too small; the second was too large. The third is just right! This hat fits a Small or Medium head and features a vintage glass cameo pin. I am in love.

Art of Distinction

2009-06-26T00:23:00.004-04:00

My hats will be at the "Art of Distinction" event in Perkiomenville this Saturday, June 27 from 1-6:00 and Sunday, June 28 from 1-6:00. More information can be found here and here. I'll be sharing space with the lovely ladies from Alabaster's Arts & Tea. Come out and show your support!

Does he know me or what?

2009-06-25T15:16:00.003-04:00

I just got home from shop sitting at Inside the Cherry Cupboard to find this note from my husband slipped under my laptop:

Hi Honey!
1. Get a bowl
2. Put a brownie or 2 in oven for a few minutes
3. Put brownie in bowl
4. Put vanilla ice cream on hot brownie
5. Moan in pleasure
6. Ride exercise bike for two hours
7. Repeat

This sounds like quite a process. I should get started right away! ;-)

2009-06-24T12:18:00.002-04:00

The last few days were beautiful: the sun came out, the breeze was lovely, the rain was gone. Today is grey and gloomy again. Blah.

This week I've been working on hats for a show this weekend and for my Etsy shop. If all goes well, I'll have a few more cotton bucket hats and will have finally nailed down the fedora pattern (the first one I made was too small; the second was too big. Will the third be just right?). I've also been designing a new sweater out of recycled cotton fiber. If I'm feeling generous, I might share the pattern ;-)

Time to get back to work!

Sometimes disasters strike

2009-06-23T15:56:00.002-04:00

Not so much disaster as things falling apart. I had my new product line finished and ready to go, and the other day when I went to photograph it all for my Etsy shop, I noticed that things were coming undone. Sigh. Guess it's back to the drawing board on this one... But I have some ideas, so all is well :-) FYI: Size 10 crochet thread does NOT laminate well.

Wrap it up

2009-06-17T10:14:00.003-04:00

My WWKiP Day wrapup has been posted here. Go take a look and check out the rest of Tara's awesome site!

Sales were slow... but fun

2009-06-16T17:04:00.003-04:00

Lots of folks at the Boyertown Sidewalk Sale today, but business was still slow. Of the five artists selling work inside Studio B, I was the only one who sold anything - and I only sold one hat. BUT it was a lot of fun, I passed out lots of business cards and coupons, and the entire experience made me think about how I need to display my items at trunk shows. So with all of that in mind, I'd say it was a good day.

This week I'll be working on a few hats and accessories for Teaberry Antiques and Collectibles near Avalon, NJ as well as prepping for another trunk show with the ladies I call my "Alabaster's Collective." More on that later; right now it's time to refocus and get to tai chi class...

Another mention!

2009-06-15T23:01:00.001-04:00

I've been quoted in an article about fiber! Read it here.

Wild Side Walk Sale

2009-06-15T16:32:00.002-04:00

I've spent the day getting ready for tomorrow's big sidewalk sale event here in Boyertown, and I am happy to announce that the new product line is ready to launch! Come get a sneak peek tomorrow inside Studio B between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. I'll also have coupons and giveaways for people who mention my blog, Twitter, or Etsy shop. Several other artists/crafters will be present as well, and many other sales and activities will be going on throughout town. Don't miss it!

a Giveaway!

2009-06-15T16:11:00.003-04:00

Found this through a friend's blog and thought I'd post it here since I know some of you will love this: Art Nest Goodies GIVEAWAY - design your own pin cushion ring and needle nest!!! Click here to enter!

Oh my yarny goodness

2009-06-14T16:19:00.003-04:00

Wow, it's been a busy weekend! Yesterday was World Wide Knit in Public Day, and our Stitch n' Bitch held a super little event at Hard Bean Cafe in Boyertown, PA. I'll be doing a full wrap-up for handmadeinpa.net in the next couple of days, so I'm not going to elaborate much here, but I had a great time and I think everyone else did, too. We filled that porch with laughter, fun, and lots of yummy yarn. AND I learned how to knit continental and spin! I even have some spun plarn to show for it.

Today was supposed to be our yarn swap, but only three people showed up for it. Oh well, we can all keep our yarn until the next time ;-)

This evening I'm going to be working on a new creative item that I am planning to launch at the Boyertown sidewalk sale this Tuesday, June 16. Stop by Studio B, mention my blog, Twitter, or Etsy site, and receive a free gift! Yes, it has something to do with my new product...

Yart Sale

2009-06-10T19:36:00.002-04:00

I have decided to participate in Etsy's annual Yart Sale! On top of my current Buy One Get One 25% Off sale, I am also offering free shipping on all orders over $40. If ever there was a time to shop, it's now! The Yart Sale started today and continues through Sunday, June 14.

And for those of you who are local, the Boyertown Stitch n' Bitch group is hosting a mini fiber fest for World Wide Knit in Public Day on Saturday, June 13 on the front porch of Hard Bean Cafe in Boyertown. Come join us from 12-4:00 p.m. for some knit and crochet fun as well as spinning and plarn-making demos. Several local yarn dyers, including Saffron Dyeworks and Glory by Jeannie Lee will also be present with their yummy fiber goodies. Hope you can join us!

Hats off to hummmmmus

2009-06-09T12:48:00.004-04:00

There's not often a lot to post about when I'm in the middle of a hat, unless you'd like to hear all about the frustration of creating and modifying patterns (which usually includes lots of screaming and colorful language). So I thought I'd share my hummus recipe today instead. It's absolutely delicious and good for you, not to mention incredibly easy to make.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
- 1 can organic chickpeas, drained
- 1-2 T tahini paste
- 1/2 roasted red pepper, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup oil (olive, safflower, canola, or grapeseed)
- garlic powder or minced garlic cloves, to taste
- pinch of sea salt

Combine all ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. Enjoy hummus as a veggie dip, on toast or bagels, as a sandwich spread, or with anything else you'd like. Have fun and eat up!

Hats for everyone!

2009-06-02T17:14:00.004-04:00

New hats just added to my Etsy site. Thanks, Laura, for being such a good sport again!

JUNE SALE!!!

2009-06-01T15:13:00.004-04:00

If you've been waiting for just the right time to buy from LikeClochework, that time is now! During the month of June, I'm offering a "Buy one, get the second* 25% off" sale! All orders will still receive a free mini flower pin, too.

You can also catch me at the Boyertown Sidewalk Sale on Tuesday, June 16 from 10 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. I'll be set up inside Studio B (air conditioning, local crafters, and our eco art show, Terra Firma - what could be better on a hot day?). If you stop in and mention my blog or my Etsy shop, I'll have a little something for you :-)

Tomorrow I'm planning another photo shoot, which means that more hats will be popping up on Etsy soon!

*of equal or lesser value; includes special orders

2009-05-27T09:34:00.002-04:00

So the blog fell by the wayside this past week and a half, but in my defense I was extremely busy in the non-virtual world. I volunteer at our local art gallery, Studio B, and we decided to paint the entire space, including the ceiling, between shows this time. I must say, it looks stunning, but we are all so sore and tired now!

The gallery director also encouraged me to enter a piece in our next juried show, Terra Firma, which opens this Friday (May 29) from 5-7:00 p.m. with a wine and cheese reception. So guess who was up until 4:00 a.m. trying to meet the deadline? Ooh, pick me. And, miraculously, my recycled fiber tree sculpture juried in (barely).

Today we hang the show, then hopefully I will finish up some of these hat projects I've been working on here and there between everything else these past two weeks. I have a sun hat almost finished. Now, if only these clouds would go away and give me a decent day to photograph my work...

I got a mention!

2009-05-20T15:26:00.003-04:00

Fabulous Tara at handmadeinpa.net gave me a lovely little mention the other day! Check it out here.

Still working on the fedora; I'm at the brim now. Also started a jute sun hat, which will be great for gardening or going to the beach. I really want to finish them both this week, but was just reminded of another deadline rapidly approaching, so... I simply MUST find a way to split myself in two.