WiP - My first "big" design

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.

Hello there, bluebird

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...

...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?

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...