April 23, 2015
by Tammy
1 Comment
This is one of my shortest podcast episodes so far, but it is packed full of amigurumi cuteness, a look at my knitted tote bag that is in progress, and some beads and crystals I’m planning to use on some sea-themed necklaces.
Show notes:
April 22, 2015
by Tammy
0 comments
is published by Sixth and Spring Books and retails for $24.95 in the US and $29.95 in Canada. There is no specific author or editor for this book. Obviously, it was put together by the Noro company to showcase its yarns. However, there are a number of designers’ work included in the book such as Debbie O’Neill, Karen Baumer, and Erica Schlueter. I would have liked a quick reference list included in the back of the book since sometimes the designers can make me decide whether or not I want to purchase a book. I asked to review this particular Noro book, out of the number that they have published, because I prefer to make accessories versus sweater and similar garments.
As with all the Noro books, I was not disappointed with the wonderful yarn colors and general “eye candy” included. The photographs are always well-done, and this book is no exception. You are able to get a good idea of what the finished product will be since there are close up as well as full views of each o the 30 projects. Some of my favorite projects are the Random Cable Mitts (long fingerless gloves that reach up well past the wrists and are full of beautiful cable-work); the Modular Neck Wrap (a loose fitting type of cowl with pretty button accents); and Cloche Hat (gathered at the to with a wide band in the center).
Beginners should expect to need additional assistance with the projects, as there is very little supplementary instructions as far as knitting basics. There are charts in the back and very brief illustrations of some stitches, but I don’t think there is enough here for anyone who is not already able to knit.
One drawback I have found with this book, and with many these days, is the tiny print and light text. Granted, my eyesight is pretty bad, but I think a book that you are going to use to craft an object should be very readable for everyone, not just 20 year-olds who good vision.
Otherwise, I love flipping through the pages of this beautiful book. There is just an overall feeling of luxury and richness that spills from the pages.
(The publisher provided me with a review copy of this book.)
April 18, 2015
by Tammy
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April 18, 2015
by Tammy
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Art Bead Scene Inside the Studio: Humblebeads
Heather gives us a peak into her studio while she’s prepping for a trunk show at the same time she has to keep up with regular orders. How do you cope when you have too many deadlines?
The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Stop by and check out the fun projects that the participants of the Frenzied Motion Challenge made!
Fish Extenders and Finished Bags
Finally finished the Fish Extender Bags! Tappingflamingo also show some of the gift ideas she has come up with.
“Hello.” Here’s a bright cheery butterfly spring card with die cut embellishments to brighten someone’s day.
Cherie’s playing with blue glass again! She’s made some solar lights for the garden.
Cyndi has compiled a links list of her tutorials for little seed bead components that are endlessly useful in her work!
This video craft podcast is full of knitting, crochet, and beading! Take out your current craft project, and craft-along with the Crafty Princess.
April 17, 2015
by Tammy
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If you have caught any recent episodes of my video podcast, Crafty Princess Diaries Podcast, then you know that I will be going on a cruise this summer with my mother and two sisters. I thought it would be fun to make some jewelry pieces of each of us that sort of are similar as far as materials, so I purchased some Swarovski crystal starfish charms and a few tubes of mixed beads from Artbeads. I’m going to ask each of them for some input as to what they want me to make, and (fingers crossed) I will have time to design and create a special piece for each of us before we hit the high seas.
April 11, 2015
by Tammy
2 Comments
April 11, 2015
by Tammy
1 Comment
Crochet Boutique: Hats: 25 Fresh Takes on Classic Crocheted Hat Designs
The 25 projects in this book included three different skill levels: beginner, easy, and intermediate. Most of the patterns are beginner and easy; I counted 5 that are designated as intermediate level. This one aspect of the book that I really like because hats should be fun to make for anyone at any skill level, but they tend to be especially good projects for beginning crocheters.
Many of the beginning level projects also use thick yarn and large hooks, so again, it is very beginner friendly, or for those who just want immediate gratification, there are plenty of patterns that will fit into that category too. The author was also careful to use easy to find yarns such as Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick and Quick (for the Bulky Shells Beret); Patons Kroy Socks (used in the Wide Ribbed Beanie pattern, which is a great unisexl hat); Bernat Cotton-ish (for the Daisy Beret, a very cute beginning level hat); and even Lily Sugar n’ Cream (for a cute Bucket Hat). Color photos are abundant and provide multiple views of each hat, both on a model as well as laying flat.
I will say, that there are a few hat designs that do not personally appeal to me, but really, just a small number. Most look like something I would enjoy making and wearing. This would be a good “go to” book for someone who has mastered basic stitches like slip stitch, single crochet, and double crochet and wants to start making finished accessories.
(A review copy was sent to me from the publisher.)
April 11, 2015
by Tammy
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5 Free Art Bead Jewelry Projects
Today Heather brings you a preview of the projects featured in the 2015 Bead Cruise Program.
The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Winter is coming… actually, it’s spring, but the new season of Game of Thrones starts soon. See what Andrew created for a jewelry challenge that pays homage to the books and television series.
Prims are all the rage these days and Connie is fascinated with them. She’s added a new free pattern that is inspired by all the primitive designers she admires. It will have you “crowing” in anticipation of a quick finish.
Dazzle-It Rings: Great Beginner’s Bead Weaving Projects
If you’d like to try bead weaving, here’s a great way to learn. Look at the ring Eileen made in her first attempt.
Cyndi has been experimenting with using multiple ribbons as a background for bead embroidery.
Learn the pros and cons of the Knit Picks Interchangeable Nickel Plated Needle Set.
April 4, 2015
by Tammy
3 Comments
Now that I have had a chance to use my new Knit Pick Options Interchangeable Nickel Plated Needle Set, I put together this video review. I show you what you actually get in this particular set, and I discuss the pros and cons of the set.
April 4, 2015
by Tammy
0 comments
Check out our new challenge piece for the month ahead!
Enjoy seeing how beaders use the same supplies in their own unique ways? Check out this blog-hop reveal!
The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Check out what the Inspired by Reading Book Club members made for their March selection, “Home” by Toni Morrison!
Sweet Harmony Cross Stitch Pattern
Connie has added another free pattern that is suitable for cross stitch on Aida, linen, stitching over one, or even needlepoint.
Cherie makes crosses with beads and baubles. Her latest crafty obsession!
Kids can help make these thumbprint bunny tea towels. They make charming housewarming gifts and fun keepsakes for grandparents, aunts and uncles.
Show off your finished crafting objects and get a chance to win a copy of a new knitting book coming out this month!
Have you ever tried making an orb shape to bead? It’s not as hard as Cyndi first thought!