Greetings Friends!

I'm so glad you're here! Today I have a special treat: a Q & A session with a legend in the crochet and fiber community - Tammy Hildebrand! I know - I know it's very exciting!! Tammy is tremendously talented and her vibrant personality shines through in everything that she does - and she is one busy lady! Earlier this year I had the opportunity to review another book of her designs, Crochet Wraps: Every Which Way.  It was one of my most popular giveaways ever!  With her latest book she has created designs for babies.  Inspired by her granddaughter this collection for girls and boys has adorable outfits for every occasion. If you love crocheting for the wee ones you need to check out this book!  

I've never done an author interview, and I wasn't sure what to ask.  A few rough drafts later I came up with these questions.  Tammy promptly and graciously found time in her busy schedule to share her insightful and sincere answers. Without further ado - here's what she had to say:

Tell us about learning to crochet.  How old were you and who taught you?  Have you been at it ever since?

I learned to crochet from my second grade teacher, Mrs. Crooks. She put out an invitation to the whole class that anyone interested in learning to crochet could stay after school. I was the only one that stayed. I can clearly remember sitting at her big wooden desk working on a floppy, purple "hippie" hat which I still have somewhere. After I first became published, I hunted down Mrs. Crooks to thank her. We are now friends on Facebook and she is one of my biggest fans! I crocheted a little all through the years and really stepped it up when I was pregnant with my first child 23 years ago. About 2 years later I became a contract crocheter. After doing that for about 2 months, I realized I could design professionally myself and I have been ever since.

How did you make the transition from following a pattern to creating your own design and writing your own patterns? What is the first thing you designed?

I have never really worked from patterns much. I've always liked doing my own thing. That is pretty much everything in my life, not just crochet. My very first published design was a little granny square soap on a rope published by Crochet World. I don't remember what my first actual design was as I was always making up something.

You have 5 published books (3 in 2004!). Once you decide on a collection what inspires your pattern ideas?

I find inspiration in absolutely everything I look at. It can be the world around me - trees, flowers, cars driving down the road, whatever! I see design ideas in tiles, wallpaper, curtains, just everything I look at I interpret in crochet. It is truly my gift from God and it comes very easy to me. It is what I was meant to do.

How long does it take for you to put together a new pattern - from the vision to something someone else can make?

Obviously, every design is going to be a bit different but typically it is a pretty quick process or I lose interest. I have a few works in progress laying around that I know I might just as well throw away since I won't usually revisit them once I've been distracted by something else.

The new book is for babies, but it looks like most of your previous patterns are for big people.  Do you have a preference on what and who you design for?

Absolutely big people! Ha! The baby book was completely a labor of love inspired by my granddaughter Willow. I thoroughly enjoyed doing it but my comfort zone is in ladies garments and afghans.

What is your favorite pattern in the new collection and why?

I really like the September cheerleader and football player. My models were so cute wearing them and my dad was a huge Pittsburgh Steelers fan. He would have love this!

What advice do you have for a crochet (or knit) enthusiast looking to make the transition to designer?

Experiment, explore, read, take classes, learn absolutely everything you can about techniques, stitches, pattern writing, sizing, etc. Step way out of your comfort zone to find growth. CGOA (the Crochet Guild of America) has a wonderful 2 year mentoring program which is free of charge with guild membership. You must already be working in a professional capacity (be designing, have a website or blog, etc.). You will be placed with an established professional member to help you learn the ropes.

You've accomplished so much! You've published books and patterns in numerous magazine, you are present on Ravelry, FaceBook and other social media, plus you are currently the vice-president of the CGOA - WOW! Congratulations! What do you have in store for 2015?

I am not much of a planner and like to just go with the flow so your guess is as good as mine for what's in store next year!

And one last question. What do you do for fun when you're not crocheting?

Right at the moment my husband and I are restoring a 100-year old home. I have learned to plaster, sand, paint, strip and I have discovered that I absolutely love doing this! I also enjoy brick carving, painting, gardening and anything crafty. My other latest love is Zumba! I took my first class about 3 months ago and I am totally addicted! I aim to go 5 days a week when my schedule permits.

Thank you so much Tammy for sharing your insight, advice and passion! Good Luck with the new book - and all your adventures! 

It's Giveaway Time!

Enter now for your chance to win this terrific prize package.
A copy of Crochet for Baby All Year, handcrafted stitch markers from Nirvana Designs,
a US size J crochet hook, a pair of stork scissors - and a little extra surprise gift!

The contest is open to everyone - (hooray international visitors!)

Good Luck!

I hope that you enjoyed the Q & A with Tammy as much as I did. If you'd like to learn more about Tammy and her many activities here are a few links:
On Facebook visit Hot Lava Crochet. On Ravelry check out her designs at Tammystreasures. To keep up on the latest in the world of professional crochet visit the CGOA.

Thank you so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me. 
Until next time friends,
Be Blessed and Stitch & Read with Love!

Greetings Friends!

Oh have I got something special for you!  It's a new book called Crochet: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide from DK Publishing. If you crochet - you should have this book in your library.  If you can't afford it (it's an oversized hard cover so it is a bit pricey), you should put it on your wish list and in the mean time, borrow it from your library!  I know you're wondering what is so special about this book? I made a list!  Let me say this first though... I am a bit fanatical when it comes to books, and even though I have a soft spot for all of them I don't love them all. I love this one. Not because the publisher sent me a free copy, but because in my opinion it excels in all of the areas a crafting book should.  Here we go...

The photography is outstanding.  This is a big book, printed on quality paper. The pictures are sharp, vibrant and dynamically capture the beauty of the yarns and stitches. There is a lot to look at making this as much a coffee table book as a how to guide. As the title claims, there truly are step-by-step instructions, wonderfully photographed and clearly worded for a bounty of crochet techniques.

This is a reference guide plus.  Here is a partial list of topics covered: following a crochet pattern, including reading charts; stitch techniques, embellishments, working crochet edges, open work and Filet crochet; colorwork; unusual stitches; unusual yarns (wire, t-shirt, plarn and string); making toys / amigurumi. Chances are if you are working on a project and come across a stitch or technique you're not sure how to execute, you'll find what you need here.  It's that kind of book!

Then there are the patterns.  More than 80.  Most of the techniques are accompanied by a pattern so you can see it in action.  Classic is the word that comes to mind when trying to think of how to describe them to you. There is nothing really advanced.  I think a beginner could do most, and certainly intermediate skills would be sufficient to follow all of the patterns.  Like all of the other information in the book, the patterns are clearly written with easy to follow, complete instructions.

One of my favorite things about the patterns in this book is all of the yarn recommendations are generic. Instead of telling us that some obscure, expensive yarn that you can't find or afford is used, these all say things like: Any DK merino can be used for a similar effect; An aran weight yarn will suit this project; or You can use any wool or wool mix 4-ply sport weight yarn for this project. I think that's awesome since choosing and substituting yarns is something I struggle with (and I bet lots of you do too!).

I always like to try out the patterns when I review a book.  In this instance I decided to try a new stitch.  It was still cold out and I had a skein of super bulky yarn left from the My Mountain promotion that Schachenmayr Yarns did last year. I made this simple cowl using just four stitches (I think! it's been a while and I can't find my notes!). I'm pretty sure it's just the chain, single crochet, half-double crochet and from the book - the Simple Crossed Stitch forming a top and bottom border.  I can't bear to think about wearing it now, but winter will be back again and I'll have this snazzy addition to my wardrobe.

Now how about that Giveaway!!

I think that you'll agree: this book is the kind of staple in your library that you'll turn to again and again!  In addition I've got some fabulous accessories to make this an awesome prize package.  There is a set of stitch markers from our etsy shop NirvanaDesigns, a pair of decorative forged embroidery scissors and a size H rosewood crochet hook.  There are several ways for you to enter - once or lots of times -  you decide. This one is open to US residents only - sorry folks, but it's a heavy book and shipping is on me! 

Good Luck!!

Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me!
Until next time,
Be Blessed and Stitch and Read with Love!

Greetings Friends!

It's been a while since we've gotten together.  Don't think that I've been slacking!  I've actually got so many things in the works right now that I struggle to keep a healthy balance.  Since my last post and giveaway I'm excited to report that I've acquired some great new books and accessories to share with you.  So let's get right down to business and talk about the Stitch Red series and the newest book: Crochet Red.

The Stitch Red series of books are the brain-child of Jimmy Beans Wool co-founder Laura Zander.  Their designed to promote awareness and support for women and heart disease. Today heart disease is the number one killer of women and is more deadly than all forms of cancer. Wow! The good news is that we can change! Information gives us knowledge and that makes us powerful!  Beautiful projects are coupled with personal stories from the designers, tips for healthy living and even enticing recipes.  On top of that, a portion of the proceeds go to The Heart Truth® and women's heart health education and research.

When the publisher asked my if I was interested in reviewing a copy I didn't hesitate to say yes.  While the women in my family have been fortunate,  in 2012 my husband at the tender young age of 50 suffered a major heart attack.  Thanks to the amazing medical professionals and the technology available he's made a tremendous recovery.  He's got a pacemaker that helps his damaged heart beat strong and steady and we're both now non-smokers after more than 30 years!

Our family has made lots of changes and as devastating as the whole ordeal has been we appreciate each other more, let the little things slide and enjoy every single moment we have together. Things I'm sad to say we didn't always do before.

During those difficult times going in and out of the hospital, crocheting was my serenity.  I was too distracted to concentrate on books and reading, but the easy rhythm of hook and yarn helped to keep me calm and let time pass without counting every minute. I continue to find peace and relaxation with my yarn, and a project bag is always with me just in case!

Now, about the book... Crochet Red is an attractive, nicely laid out collection.  The book is divided into 3 primary sections.  Following the introductions by both Deborah Norville and Vanna White we have: Projects & Profiles, Heart-Healthy Living, and Crochet Know-How. There are a variety of projects, and while a complete novice may need a little guidance, there seems to be a little something for everyone. There are bigger items, like the Peplum Jacket by Kathy Merrick with it's flattering shaping and detailed stitching at the waist and small fun items like the Heart Sachet (that I chose to make) by Kristin Nicholas.  The patterns are clearly written and easy to follow.  I did run into a little trouble making the heart sachet, but I think that was more due to being tired than any problem with the pattern!!  I am a fan of charts as a means to enhance a written pattern, but I was able to get by without them and I think the end result is just lovely!! The photography is wonderful with multiple images from different angles including close ups of stitch details. I found this helpful (in the absence of charts) to make sure that I was following the pattern correctly.

As a book and reading geek I especially like this book as the profiles of the designers and details about the patterns add insight and feelings that we don't always see in pattern collections.  I'm always interested in what inspires a design and like to understand how it came into being.

If you've read my reviews in the past, you know that I have a pet peeve about book bindings.  I'm pleased to report that while this is a paperback with a glued binding, it easily stayed opened to the right page!!  

Crochet Red Prize Package

I'm really excited to have this red themed prize package for you.  All of the pieces just seemed to come together and I think it may be one of the best giveaways yet!!  Here's what you'll win:  A copy of the book (from the folks at Sixth&Spring Books); A pair of my favorite stork scissors; A key chain made from heart sachet pattern in the book embellished with beaded charms; A set of hand crafted stitch markers from our shop Nirvana Designs with easy open lever backs (that could even make cute earrings!!); and finally a red crochet hook.  WOW!! It's free, easy and open to EVERYONE!! If I can send it to you through the US post office - you can enter!! 

Well folks - I hope you're all as excited about this one as I am!
Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me.
Until next time friends,
Be Blessed and Stitch & Read with Love!

Greetings Friends!

I live in Massachusetts.  It's cold here.  Not all the time, but right now in the middle of winter we're seeing some pretty low numbers!  Add in the wind chill and we're talking negative numbers!  And as much as I'd love to stay hunkered down in the house with a hot steamy cuppa and my latest project, the need to eat, which necessitates the need to work, means that I have to brave the elements.  The best way to combat the wintery winds? Layers.  And the final layer before the coat? The Wrap.  Don't get me wrong - I love a good scarf, but The Wrap is what I reach for when I'm dressing for the weather.  I have wraps in all shapes, sizes, colors and materials - I love each one and I will never have too many!  As if their powers of warmth weren't enough, wraps are so stylish and versatile that they simply beg to be worn anytime and anywhere you need to keep a little (or big) chill off your shoulders and neck. Wraps are a wardrobe staple that can see you through every season and any kind of day - from work to weekend, casual to formal there is a wrap for every occasion!

So when Tammy Hildebrand's new book Crochet Wraps: Every Which Way landed on my doorstep, I knew that I was in for a treat.  Not only is it about my favorite accessory,  it showcases 18 patterns and SIX different techniques!  How perfect for someone (me me me) who is always looking to try something new?!  Tammy has put together 3 patterns (easy, intermediate and advanced) for each method: Traditional Crochet; Motifs; Broomstick Lace; Hairpin Lace; Tunisian; and Double Ended! Wow!

With so much to choose from, it's hard to know where to start!  The Introduction and Tips & Hints at the beginning of the book are quite uplifting and inspirational.  It's easy to see that crochet brings Tammy great happiness and she wants us to enjoy it just as much as she does.  She offers lots of encouragement to experiment with new colors and not to be afraid to tweak the patterns to suit your personal taste.  Because there are six techniques, Tammy's advice to seek out on-line video tutorials and practice along with them is a great idea.  The book does have a How-To section with step-by-step instructions and clear photography to help you, but sometimes you need a little more guidance - especially when learning something new. 

I have lots of projects on my hooks and needles at the moment, so I wasn't able to commit to a new wrap that I would finish by the time my stop on the blog tour came around.  I did however recently have the opportunity to purchase two pairs of giant (US 35/20 mm) knitting needles - perfect for making broomstick lace.  It must have been fate! I'd been admiring the look of the "peacock" design you see in typical broomstick work, but had no idea when I'd ever get my hands on those huge needles. I decided when I saw them that I'd keep one pair to give it a try - and give the second pair away as part of the blog tour prize package!  Wielding the large needle feels pretty awkward.  I had more trouble getting the loops on than working them off.  I'm sure that with practice it gets easier, just like everything in crochet!  I don't know that I'll be jumping right into a big broomstick project, but I can see it looking great as trim on a scarf, table runner or place mats. 

Since I didn't actually make anything from the book I'm not able to comment on the accuracy or clarity of the instructions.  However, each project is beautifully photographed with many shots showing different ways to wear the wraps, as well as the stitch details. In reading through the patterns things look complete and I wasn't thrown my any unfamiliar abbreviations or wording.  Plus, I was able to figure out how to do the basic broomstick lace by following the pictures. 

Tammy has put together a lot of kick in a little book!  It's rare to see so many different techniques all in the same place, and I think using the wrap to showcase the variety of stitches is a brilliant idea! Although there are patterns that are "easy" a true beginner may be overwhelmed.  I'd say a confident beginner who is familiar with the basics and is looking for a challenge or the intermediate crocheter who is ready for something new will be very happy with Crochet Wraps.  Also, to complete most of the projects specialized tools are required.  In addition to the "big" knitting needle for the broomstick lace, you need a loom for the hairpin lace, an extra long hook for the Tunisian crochet and a double ended hook for the double ended crochet. All of these tools are available on-line, but chances are they're not part of your everyday tool box. 

And finally, my personal pet peeve about craft book bindings.  Like most paperback craft and pattern books this one has a traditional glued binding.  While in most instances this is just fine, in craft books it's a bit frustrating because they don't easily stay open while sitting in your lap.  You can press the pages open and it will sort of do the trick, but it's hard on the spine, and after a while the book flops open to the page you've used the most. I'm always much happier when my pattern books  have a spiral binding! That said, it's certainly not the kind of thing that stops me from buying a book - it's just my personal preference! (I'll be getting of my soap box now and moving on to the fun stuff!)

The folks at Stackpole Books have generously offered a copy of Tammy's book for me to share with you.  To spice it up a little I'm including a set of hand crafted stitch markers from Nirvana Designs and a pair of US 35/ 20 mm knitting needles to get you started on your broomstick lace!  The contest will run for a week, is free and open to US residents.

Win: A Selection of Goodies to Add to Your Library & Tool Box!

Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me!
I hope you enjoyed the review and will take a moment to enter the contest.
Until next time friends,
Be Blessed and Stitch & Read with Love!

Greetings Friends!

I am so excited to announce that our Etsy shop is now officially open!  If you've been reading the blog then you know that we've been working on this for a while.  And let me tell you it's been work!  I really had no idea what is involved in opening up a shop.  It's a lot like when I started the blog.  Learn as you go.  Be patient and flexible.  If somethings works - keep doing it and if it doesn't, change it!

Our shop is called Nirvana Designs and it's development has been a somewhat organic process.  I learned how to crochet, started writing about it and the blog was born.  I took up knitting and wrote about that.  As I learn things I like to share them with you.  It's a way for me to record my experiences and hopefully lend a hand to you along the way.  My husband ties flies for fishing.  It's small, precise work.  One day I admired the beaded earrings a patron at the library was wearing.  It turns out her daughter made them. I thought we can do that!  And so we did. With John's amazing dexterity and my creative motivation we began making earrings.  Then came stitch markers. And more jewelry.  It's fun and a terrific way for us to share a hobby. We didn't set out to sell anything, but since we've pretty much saturated our friends and family with gifts and we're not ready to stop making things a Etsy shopped sounds like the obvious next step.

For nearly a year we have been refining our techniques, searching for raw materials and slowly building our inventory.  The past month I've been doing product photography and learning about Etsy.  Believe me there is a lot to learn!  Thankfully there are plenty of books available and more importantly, the site is designed for people just like us. 

Now after more that 1000 pictures and many hours on the computer we are happy to welcome you to our grand opening.  We're hopeful that you'll take a look at what we've been busy making.  To break the ice, we're offering 50% off your first purchase.  Use the coupon code: WELCOME at checkout.  Initially we're only listing our stitch markers.  The jewelery collection is coming next and eventually I hope to offer a selection of knit and crochet pieces.

We're having a great time with our new project and we're looking forward to learning, growing and finding our place in the world of Etsy boutiques!  Drop in for a browse and maybe even treat yourself to a little something! 

Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing a bit of your day with me.
Until next time friends,
Be blessed and stitch & read with love!

Scarves, Shrugs & Shawls:
22 Knitted Designs with Their Special Techniques
by Sarah Hatton
St. Martin's Griffin
February 26, 2013; 136 Pages

Scarves and wraps are the perfect canvases for experimenting with new stitches and practicing new techniques. From well-respected Rowan Yarn designer Sarah Hatton with Sharon Brant as the technical editor, Scarves, Shrugs & Shawls offers over twenty easy-to-make and fun-to-wear designs that explore a range of knitting techniques—from gorgeous textured and cabled stitches, to intricate openwork and lace patterns, to interesting and appealing shaping. A gallery of designs features the garments photographed in full color and includes a helpful and inspiring "How to Wear It" section, showcasing the myriad ways to wrap your shawl, twist your neck warmer, or tie your scarf. Making these popular accessories even more versatile so you can wear them over and over, and still keep them looking fresh! (from Amazon.com)

Greeting Friends!

Welcome to a new review and an awesome giveaway.  First, let me tell you about the book.  As most of you know I'm a lover of books - that includes all kinds from fiction to dictionaries and everything in between.  As a crocheter and more recently a knitter I love browsing through the pages of pattern books looking for projects and inspiration.  Having checked out many titles from our library I fancy myself a bit of a connoisseur.  So how does Scarves, Shrugs & Shawls measure up?  On a scale of 1 - 10 I give it a solid 8. 

The book is set up in sections.  Right away I was drawn in by the full page photographic spreads featuring each item.  So often in pattern books you get one little picture.  Not here.  After you've had a chance to view each piece from a variety of angles it's on to the patterns.  Again there are more (different) pictures that really show you what you're making.  Along with the line by line instructions charts have been included allowing you to use whichever format you prefer.  Now I haven't made any of these items, so I can't speak to the accuracy or ease of following the patterns, but I did read through several and it appears that they are well laid out and complete.

As the publisher promises, there are a variety of different techniques featured in the patterns providing an opportunity to try new things.  As a beginner I feel like several of the patterns are more advanced than I am, however the technique section at the back of the book seems to offer good insight on the skills needed by  covering everything from how to avoid holes when doing two handed fair isle work,  how to string beads using a needle and thread, to making a no-turn bobble.   I'd say the projects are best suited for those with knowledge of the basic skills and some experience under their belt.  A confident beginner should be able to handle many and might be inspired to give some of the more complicated designs a try.  Intermediate and advanced knitters will be pleased with the options available.  There really is something for everybody.

I'd say my favorite part is the "How to Wear It" section.  What a brilliant idea!   As a scarf and shawl enthusiast I'm always struggling to find new and interesting ways to wear them.  While this section is showcasing the garments from the book they make it easy to see how it would work on any item of similar shape and dimension.  In addition to the pictures they tell you what to do to achieve each look!  For the fashionably challenged like me this is important!

The paperback book is nicely bound and lays open fairly easily.  It's 9.7" x 9" size makes it big enough to see things clearly, but small enough to fit in your bag if you wanted to take a project on the go.  I like the matte finish of the pages, too.  Overall I think this is a well done book that any fan of shoulder and neck wear would be happy to have in their collection!    

I love giving things away!  I'm so blessed and thankful to the people at St. Martin's who send me all kinds of books to review.  It only seems right that I spread the joy and share them with you.   I've been collecting little trinkets to put together a fun knitting prize package.  In addition to the book, there are stork scissors!!  These are a classic item and a huge favorite of my Facebook friends.  This pair is 3.5" tall making them perfect for home or on the go in your travel bag.  I have a 5" pair that I use every day - they cut beautifully!  Next I found a pair of Rosewood knitting needles from Boyd.  They're US size 6 and 14" long.  They're quite lovely and while I've never tried them, I know that my Rosewood crochet hooks feel warm and natural and seem to get better every time I use them.   Finally there is a set of handmade cobalt blue glass stitch markers.  They're one of a kind and will help you keep your place in style!  So there you have it!  All the tools you need - just add your favorite yarn and you're on your way to knitting nirvana!!

Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me.  I hope that you'll take a moment and throw your name in the hat.  I've tried to come up with lots of different ways to enter giving you plenty of options.  This time I'm opening the drawing to everyone everywhere!  If I can send you mail through the US Post Office than you're welcome to enter. If you're a crocheter and are feeling left out - don't!  I've got something special planned for you coming up towards the end of the month!  I promise you're going to love it!

Until next time friends,
Be Blessed and Stitch & Read with Love!

100 Colorful Granny Squares to Crochet by Leonie Morgan
St. Martin's Griffin
March 19, 2013; 128 Pages

The timeless granny square has adorned sofas, armchairs, and bedspreads for generations. In this latest addition to our popular Knit & Crochet series, we feature a treasury of squares that are quick to make and sure to stand out—from tried-and-true vintage favorites to contemporary designs. Author Leonie Morgan uses her amazing eye for color to add a new and appealing twist to the perennially-popular granny square, presenting us with a fabulous collection of squares featuring delightful and vivid color combinations that are perfect for a new era of crocheters.

The book teaches you everything you need to crochet beautiful granny squares—from the basics to embellishment techniques that will really make your work pop. The possibilities for square designs are endless, with an in-depth overview for how to successfully mix and match colors, plus step-by-step instructions for a variety of embellishments including tapestry and surface crochet, cross-stitch, and appliqué. With all this technical and professional know-how, crocheters will be inspired to get adventurous with their colorways and decorations for an array of projects from heirloom afghans, to quick cushions, to baby blankets, and more!

Now you, too, can create a granny square showpiece that can transcend the ages and add a fantastic burst of color to any household. (from Amazon.com)

Granny Squares.  They're timeless. Classic. A simple design that transcends all styles. They are both old fashioned and modern finding a welcome spot in most any home.  You decide what the style will be.  Will you make something using the classic pattern and your stash of scraps? Or will you push the design envelope and and use unexpected techniques like cross stitch and surface crochet with your hand dyed yarn? No matter what you choose the granny square is one of the most versatile crochet elements you can make.

It's hard to believe that I made my first granny square a little over a year ago.  In that time I've learned so much about them. (Check out my series The Granny Square Project, the links are in the sidebar.) And just when it seems like there couldn't possibly be something fresh and different a new book arrives on my doorstep!  The folks at St. Martin's sent me the latest in their crochet/knitting series to review and share with you. 100 Colorful Granny Squares to Crochet is bright, cheerful and overflowing with great ideas.

As I've come to expect with the books in this series, the photography is terrific presenting clear, consistent shots of each design.  The patterns are accurate, easy to follow and are accompanied by charts/diagrams.  This makes any questionable instructions easily understandable.  I find myself volleying back and forth between the words and diagrams.  Because of using both I'm certain that my chart reading skills have really improved.

I was pleasantly surprised to see a number of squares using cross stitch, surface crochet, applique elements (including beads and ribbons) and embroidery to create beautiful and interesting designs.  There are also squares that use color in a technique that is basically the crochet equivalent to intarsia knitting.  The two hearts that I made show a few of these.  They were challenging, but fun to make.  The challenge being in using new techniques.  I've never done any cross stitch before, so it took me some time to get the feel of it.  I'm quite taken with the look and am glad to have it in my crochet toolbox!

Another nice feature of this book is the inclusion of yarn requirements to make various size throws using each square.  I've never seen that before and can imagine it being helpful in planning a project.  In addition to the squares there are a handful of projects scattered throughout.  Since this is primarily a book of squares it makes sense that it's not saturated with projects.  There's a bit about designing your own as well as a section devoted to edging and border patterns.  Of course these are all in addition to overviews of tools & techniques, joining & blocking and caring for your projects.

Can you tell that this one is a hit with me?  I'm flipping through it to see if I missed anything important, and to see if there's anything that I don't like about it. The only thing that could potentially be improved is the binding.  This is a paperback and the pages have a tendency to flip closed while you're using it.  A spiral binding would take care of that, but it's hardly a deal breaker! I'm sure over time and from use the pages will relax and stay open more easily.

Now let's get to the good stuff!  That's right, the giveaway!  This time I have something special in store for you.  Not only am I giving away a copy of the book (thanks St. Martin's!), I've collected a few other goodies that I think you're really going to like.  First there is the rosewood crochet hook from Boye.  It's a US size H/ 5.00 mm.  I have a few of these myself and they get better every time I use them.  Plus, I love the warm feel of the wood.  Next is this adorable pair of scissors.  The cast filigree design makes them lovely addition to your kit.  They're sturdy and sharp with a slightly round tip that won't poke into things should you decide to carry them with you.  And finally, a one of a kind set of handmade stitch markers.  They have the lobster claw head that you need for crochet, and their size makes them easy to manage but not overwhelming on delicate work. They're from our soon to be open Etsy shop - Nirvana Designs.  For now though, the only way to get them is to win them!  The drawing is easy to enter, and the Rafflecopter gives you lots of options for multiple entries.  I do have to limit this one to residents of the US only (sorry!), but I promise there will be more that are open to everyone coming soon!

Well folks, that's all for now.  I hope you enjoy the review and that you take a few minutes to enter the drawing.  I'm excited to have such a wonderful prize package for you.  All you need is your favorite yarn and you'll be ready to make granny square magic!  The contest ends at midnight on Wednesday, May 29 and you can even come back and enter everyday if you want!

Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me!
Until next time friends,
Be blessed and stitch & read with love!

Day Six: A Tool To Covet
Write about your favorite knitting or crochet (or spinning, etc) tool. It can either be a tool directly involved in your craft (knitting needles or crochet hook) or something that makes your craft more pleasurable – be it a special lamp, or stitch markers.

I love finding just the right tool!  When I started crocheting I had one hook.  I still have it actually.  It's purple sparkly plastic with a big heart on the end.  I don't know what size it is since I still don't have a hook gauge, but I think it's maybe a US K or L.  I've made lots of great projects with that beauty and even though I haven't used it in ages it's handy with all the others just in case I feel nostalgic.

So what tool is the one I can't live without?  My all time favorite, go to item?  I don't have one.  I have several.  Because I always have several projects going and different tasks require different tools.  So I decided to show you my stand bys.  For crocheting I prefer a plain old metal Boye hooks.  I have them in lots of sizes and I like the shape of the head.  I've tried wood, plastic, bamboo and other brands of metal but the Boye is the one I always come back to.  For thread I have a steel size 4 with a bamboo handle that I simply adore.  I'd like to get more, but until I do I wrap the steel handles with yarn to make them more comfortable.

Even though I just started knitting I was lucky enough to be given a huge selection of straight and double pointed needles.  I haven't used any enough to have real favorites, but I do like the small straights for small work.  I have quite a few old plastic double pointed needles that are so stiff they're near impossible to use.  I know a set of interchangeables are in my future as soon as the budget allows! Speaking of budget, the sets of dpn's have the prices stamped on the outside of the plastic sleeves that hold them.  They range from 45 cents to 65 cents!!  What a deal! I wonder what year they're from?  Speaking of deals, I found a terrific bargain at the local discount store on the scissors.  I couldn't resist the classic stork and the forged design to add to my collection!

Getting new tools is always fun, but right now I am obsessed with stitch markers!  Last year my husband and I started fiddling with the idea of making them to sell.  I went ahead and set up an Etsy account for Crochet Nirvana / Nirvana Designs but we haven't opened our doors yet.  I wanted to make sure that we had enough

We don't have a date yet for our grand opening, but we're on our way!  I don't expect that we'll be retiring early from the proceeds, but who knows??  Everyone has to start somewhere!

Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me.  If you want to read more about the tools of the trade, enter 4KCBWDAY6 into a search engine of your choice or click here.  I can hardly believe that Blog Week is almost over!  Please be sure to visit me tomorrow for the final post.

Until next time friends,
Be blessed and stitch & read with love!

I am enamored with flowers.  Pansies mainly. They have long been one of my favorite blossoms, and so I decided to see what kind of interpretation I could design.  A natural pansy is a bit unbalanced with big and little petals.  My plan is to incorporate them into squares, and since I'm still a novice it makes more sense to work with uniform sizes. I'm feeling pretty satisfied with where things are so far.  The technique for moving from flower to square was a challenge for me.  I want the background to resemble a classic granny, so I needed to add on chains in the right location and configuration that I can work off of to make the square. With a few more adjustments I should have my "Classic Granny Pansy" ready for it's unveiling.

Along with the pansy, I'm working on a pop-corn-picot flower.  Again I plan to use the classic granny as the background.  I'm sure I can find a pattern for these, but I'm trying to build my design skills.  That means I'm stitching and ripping and stitching some more until I'm happy with the result! I have one finished that gets the big thumbs up, and another that is nearly there!  Look for the big reveal on Friday.

I still have other projects on the hooks. Eleanor and Juliana are patiently waiting for my flower fetish to wilt.  But for right now, I'm really enjoying all the new things that I'm learning and being able to share my experiences with you.  I had no idea when I started the Granny Square Project that it was going to grow into something so wonderful.  I figured I'd make a few squares and be done.  I guess not.  Now I understand why people are so devoted to this technique or method of crochet. It's fun, satisfying and only limited by your imagination.

Since it's Wednesday I bet you're surprised that I didn't included a book picture!  Actually, I'm just about finished with Shadow of Night by Deborah Harkness.  There has been much anticipation for this book as her debut last year with A Discovery of Witches was enormously successful. Was it worth the wait? I'll let you know what I think when I'm finished!! 

Well friends, that does it for me today. I'll be linking up with these terrific blogs, and spending some time visiting and seeing what amazing things are going on.  I hope you'll join me.

Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me!
Until next time,
Be blessed and stitch & read with love!

A few months ago John and I started making stitch markers.  After seeing some very nifty little ditties a friend was using I thought - We can do that!  So I went in search of supplies, which are very easy to come by, and we set to it. We both have a role - I design and he builds.  We make a good team, and we've been having fun working together. We began just for that reason, to have fun and to make some handy markers to use and to give away.  We've also  made several pairs of earrings since the process is exactly the same! After sharing with several friends and family members, we've been hearing "You should sell those!" a whole lot. I'm not sure though. It's not that I don't think they're not good enough, after only a few sessions we got some neat designs and John's technical skills improve with each item. What I'm worried about is it will stop being fun. 

So before I jump into the deep end, I'm going to do some research, talk it over with John and give myself time to ruminate on the pros and cons of joining the ranks of millions(?) of others peddling their wares on the internet. I'd be interested in hearing your thoughts.  Should I go for it? What has your experience been? If you have an etsy shop what is one thing that you know now that you wish someone had told you before you started?

In addition to the stitch markers, I took time to work on the cardigan that I just can't seem to finish.  I feel like the end may actually be in sight.  Look at how far I've come!  I have a finished sleeve and a half! I'm still trying to decide it it's long enough.  One more round might be in order, don't you love the zig-zagginess of the edges?! I'll admit that I'm dreading blocking.  I've never blocked a whole sweater.  Pieces yes, but I'm feeling intimidated by the thought of manipulating the whole thing.

Maybe there will be some sort of sweater miracle and it'll be perfect without blocking? I've also been wondering what happens when I wash it?  I know that I'll have to do some sort of shaping.  I sure hope that it retains it shape fairly well.  If it wants more than that from me we may have some trouble!
Alright my friends, time to sit back down in that big burgundy chair and finish off that sleeve!  Enjoy your day!

Until next time,
Be blessed and stitch & read with love!