Crafty Beaver

Frugal holiday ideas #2

2010-11-29T18:24:00.000-08:00

How to make your own gift bows & tags.

It is amazing the amount of money we spend on bows & gift tags just to toss them out. So why not make them out of things you already have. Way cuter and more personal, plus if you use things that you would normally thow out it cuts down on waste.

First up how to make a bow . Super easy & they can be made of ANYTHING. Old maps, junk mail, newspapers, film strips, and so on. Again get creative. If you don't want to use the fabric wrapping technique I mentioned in my last post, try wrapping in newspaper with a junk mail bow.

Gift tags are even easier. Cut out a square of a stiff material & punch a hole in it. Thread some interesting yarn & you are ready to go. Now for me I invested in a gift tag punch. I honestly thought I wouldn't use it that much so I waited till I had a 40% coupon for Michael's to get it. I cannot believe how much I use it. I even use it for price tags at festivals & yard sales. You could use any shape really so if you already have some punches go to town. I've also found old food boxes like cereal boxes, frozen foods, pop can & snacks are made of a light weight cardboard. They make great tags that are blank on one side & some have even have interesting colors and designs on the other.

Frugal holiday ideas day 1

2010-11-23T23:42:00.000-08:00

I've neglected my poor little blog because I've returned to school after many year. I'm sorry if anyone is still following this. I'm going to try & make it up by doing a special on having a frugal, handmade, and maybe even green Christmas. Hopefully I can do a couple posts a week with ideas on how to save money while giving rockin gifts while on winter break.

Ok tip numero uno.
Wrapping with fabric, otherwise known as furoshiki.
If you are anything like me you have quite a bit of fabric stashed away for a rainy day. Well now is your chance to give a one of a kind green present while helping to destash. Now I know what you are thinking, what if the gift recipient isn't crafty, what can they do with a large piece of fabric. This is where you can be creative. You could use a scarf (thrift stores are great for big vintagey ones) for your fashionista, maybe a tablecloth for the new homeowner, a baby blanket for the new parents, heck who says it has to be fabric. Knit or crochet a shawl & use the same technique. Get creative & turn that one great gift into two awesome gifts.

Furoshiki instructions

Upcoming festivals

2010-04-18T18:36:00.000-07:00

List will be updated as I apply for more:

Eco-Chic Craftacular
http://www.columbuscraftacular.com/
May 22-23
at the Whetstone Community Center
3923 N High Street, Clintonville

Yellow Springs Street Fair June 12th

(in front of Eco-Mental)
http://www.yellowspringsohio.org/street_fair.html

SALE on my etsy shop

2010-02-18T16:09:00.001-08:00

I have a bunch of cute hats on sale in my shop right now looking for a good home. Also a motherboard clock. Check it out.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/MissMotleys

Handmade Holiday Bazaar

2009-11-22T16:05:00.001-08:00

My next festival.

December 4th (5-10pm) and December 5th (3-10pm)

at C{Space 20 N. Jefferson Ave. Downtown Dayton (next to Club Masque)

preview of patterns

2009-10-18T01:30:00.000-07:00

Ohhh look pictures of the new hats I'm hoping to sell patterns of. I know the black & blue one is meh. It's so hard for me to justify using a good quality yarn when I'm testing out a new pattern from scratch. I did make another in an orange cotton that looks way better but I havent taken any pics yet. Hoping to work out kinks tomorrow & maybe *crossing my fingers* have them on etsy monday before class.

Maybe some new patterns soon...

2009-10-15T02:34:00.000-07:00

So, I've been crocheting lately. It's been a while since I picked up my hook & actually finished a project. Sewing lately & getting things ready for festivals I don't really have time for crochet. I just finished one slouchy hat & wrote up a pattern for it. I may make another in a better yarn before putting it on etsy because it's kinda meh in scratchy stiff acrylic. I'm also working on a second completely different one that's more airy that I'm writing down as I work. So hopefully I will have 2 new hat patterns for sale. I really love selling patterns & seeing all the variations people make from them. It just feels like the process takes forever.

Also, I did very well at the street fair if anyone is interested. It started slow because it was so cold but picked up after noon. I was a little worried after the disaster of the first friday in Xenia. That was so disappointing I left an hour early & so did the women next to me. But I really enjoyed the street fair. Ran into an old teacher & someone I went to HS with (can't remember her name). Oh & I sat and had a great convo with a queer woman who had to be in her early 70's. She was a hoot. She totally made me think of how I could be when I get that age.

Next festival Oct 10th

2009-10-04T00:16:00.000-07:00

I will be vending at the Street Fair in Yellow Springs this Sat Oct 2nd. My set up will be in front of the Living Green store, which is on Xenia Ave. Please come out and say hi.

Next craft fair Oct 2nd

2009-09-23T21:10:00.000-07:00

I will be vending at First Friday in Xenia. That's Oct 2nd for all you lazy people. Please come out and say hi. My set up will be in front of Eichman's Hardware store, which is at 39 W. Main Street. There will be many other local vendors and entertainment as well

http://www.visitxenia.com/events.htm

Belmont Bohemian Bazaar

2009-08-26T17:10:00.000-07:00

Belmont Bohemian Bazaar this weekend in Dayton.
http://handmadedayton.blogspot.com/

Come check it out. Stop by and say hi if you see me

Produce bags for sale

2009-08-08T22:59:00.001-07:00

These are my popular owl produce bags. I am trying out allowing purchase via my blog to cut down on etsy fees. If you would like some feel free to purchase through here.

Description:
These eco-friendly produce bags are reusable, washable and fold into nearly nothing so they can easily fit into the pocket of your shopping tote. Your purchase is visible through the mesh, so the cashier does not have to open each bag at the check-out.

The cute owl patches made from recycled material gives a little style to a very basic bag. Many cashiers have commented on how adorable my set is. Your fabric color may vary slightly from the picture shown, darker or lighter beige.

They also make great eco-friendly gift bags that the recipient can reuse again and again after the gift giving is done.Long lasting, transparent, durable and lightweight mesh bags perfect for the local farmer's market. Come home with NO plastic bags

Size:14in X 18in (35.5cm X 45.7cm)
Washing instructions:Wash under tap water if necessary. Rinse and hang to dry over night or, even better, roll in a clean dishtowel and they are instantly dry

Bags are made as orders are placed. Please allow 3 days for production before shipping.

2009-06-25T08:04:00.000-07:00

I have been totally cracked out about my mini wallets. I don't know if it's the whole instant gratification, or the small amount of fabric they use, or just how flippin cute each one comes out. I make them out of anything I can find, from old clothes to designer fabric. I seriously want to keep pretty much every one I make.

What I've been doing

2009-06-02T16:23:00.000-07:00

Funny enough now that I'm not working a 9 to 5 I don't really have time for my blog. So I'm sure my posts will be few and far between for a while, sorry. I went to Mendelsons twice this week. I swear I could wander around there for hours. I picked up a bunch of circuit boards in various sizes to make earrings, bookmarks & maybe coasters out of. I also picked up some tiny circuits to make cuff links which came out so cute. Those will be heading to Living Green along with some scrabble time cuff links. I'm hoping to take more pictures to post. So at the least you will have some interesting things to look at even if I can't talk about them much

I'm in another store!!!

2009-04-20T18:44:00.000-07:00

I really can't believe this. I'm kind of shy about my stuff and I'm always a little amazed when someone loves my items. I'm now in Beans N Cream in Mechanicsburg and Cedarville. They don't have a website but you can find the locations through google.

Festival I will be in '09

2009-04-06T16:12:00.001-07:00

Eco-chic Craftacular
May 16th-17th
http://www.columbuscraftacular.com/

Ladyfest
Aug 21-22nd
http://www.myspace.com/ladyfestdayton

Belmont Bohemian Bazaar
Aug 29th-30
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=133932696408&ref=nf

Cincy Pinkfest
Nov 22nd
http://cincypinkfest.com/

First Friday in Xenia
Oct 2nd (5-9pm)
http://www.visitxenia.com/

Belmont Bohemian Bazaar (fall)
Oct 16th 4pm-9pm

This list will be updated as I apply for more.

I'm in a store!!!!!

2009-03-25T16:08:00.001-07:00

WOOO HOOO!!!! My items are now in a local store. Check them out in Yellow Springs at http://livinggreenstore.net/ . The owner is super cool. Even if you aren't interested in my stuff But you should be) the store is great. Andything eco-friendly you can imagine & she loves to support locals. The items I'm selling there are a little different from the ones in my etsy shop because Ohio is a completely different demographic. You can check out my flick accout to see more.

Wristlets and card pouches

2009-03-15T23:04:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to build stock for some upcoming craft fairs. I think I have perfected a cute wristlet pattern. Very simple and I can use my large stash of funky vintage linen napkins. I haven't decided yet if I will list any on etsy since the market seems to be pretty saturated already.

I also made some card pouches with a similar pattern. Instead of straps they have a small ribbon loop so they can be attached to a keychain. I love how fast & easy these are. Ignore the dent in a brown flower one, the napkin had a serged edge and I didn't cut it off. I probably won't sell that one.

Eco-friendly mailing emvelopes

2009-03-09T17:58:00.000-07:00

I found this great tutorial on how to make mailing envelopes out of cereal boxes.

http://sproutchicago.wordpress.com/how-tos/

So I had to try it. I've been saving all of our boxes to punch out gift tags. Now I'm going to use the cereal ones for this and the pop can boxes for tags.

Headache

2009-02-28T10:19:00.000-08:00

I have been having some killer headaches lately. I hope it's just stress and not something serious. I've been taking Excedrin migraine. I really love that stuff when it works.

Chuckles made pumpkin bread for me last night mmmmm. Man I miss the fall with all the pumpkin. Oh well I guess this will have to be my fix for a while. We are going to Carabbas today for lunch/dinner with the 'rents. We took them last week & Chuckles dad enjoyed it so much he has been talking about it non-stop. I came home & Chuckles goes mom & dad are going to Carabbas do you wanna go....DUH!!!

I HATE math!!!!!!

2009-02-26T14:58:00.000-08:00

I'm doing horribly in math. I have never & will probably never be good at it. I have an artistic brain not one that deals well with numbers. I don't really see how it applies to my everyday life. I've been around for 30yrs and haven't used any of them so far. I'm really annoyed with work right now, I wish I could live off my etsy shop. I would only need about $60 a day to quit.

Shell neckwarmer

2009-02-07T10:15:00.000-08:00

So I finished a new neckwarmer. I may sell it since it was made out of wool & I tend to get a little itchy with wool. Besides it doesn't really match my new pimped out houndstooth coat very well. I'm hoping to get a pattern up in my shop sometime this week. I'm working on a blue scarf version that I may actually wear. I've been really emotional and pissy lately so my creative juices aren't flowing like they use to. Besides sewing at work all day tends to use my creative energy. I have a couple idea floating around if I can get up the emotional energy to try them.

I also finished a rainbow hat. Yes, I really am that gay. I've been thinking about making one for forever but most rainbow yarn (ie red heart) is fugly. So I did a funkier version a la moi style. I actually realy love it. It's up for sale if anyone wants to show their pride.

Vent

2009-01-26T17:29:00.000-08:00

You know I find it so amazing when something is offered for free that people have the nerve to complain about it. I mean really. You aren't paying for it so exactly what do you have to bitch about. The low quality of freeness? How dare that thing that cost zero dollars not be up to free standards.

PFFFTTT!!!!!!!

Peace sign chart pattern

2009-01-10T21:07:00.001-08:00

Can be used for knitting, crochet or crosstitch. If interested I have more detailed patterns for sale in my etsy shop.

I'm currently working & going back to school so my blog is probably going to be pretty lame for a while.

French Seams AKA Vera Bradley seams how-to

2008-12-27T20:59:00.000-08:00

This is how Vera Bradley does seams on her purses. If you've ever looked at her bags the fabric is basically one large quilted piece instead of a seperate outside & lining of the purse.

1. Take your fabric right sides facing out (yes I know this is weird) sew at presser foot width.

I had 2 different colors of thread in my machine just ignore that.

2. Turn your fabric wrong sides out & sew at a larger allowance (ie. 1/2in).

This is what your seam will look like on the inside & the outside. Very clean & finished. Yours will be more crisp if you iron them. I was making a fast gift bag & was lazy.

If you take a piece of ribbon fold it in 1/2 and tuck the folded end into your seam as you are sewing step 2 you can have a cute little tie for gift bags.

This can be done at any size seam allowance just make step #1 at a smaller allowance than step #2 so all your loose ends are tucked in.

How to make cornhole bags-Tutorial

2008-12-27T20:27:00.000-08:00

Here is a fast & dirty version of how to make cornhole bags. The official rules are on the American Cornhole Association's website http://www.playcornhole.org/ . Yeah I know I never knew there was such a thing. A friend asked me to make her a couple sets for x-mas. I don't play & really don't think it's much of a sport but it's something crafty so I made them.

ACA rules about size:

The corn bags shall be made from two fabric squares with a quarter inch double stitched seam on all four sides. The corn bags should be made from 12 oz / sq yd duck canvas and may be any color that is easy to see during Cornhole play. Each bag shall be filled with approximately 2 cups of corn feed and finished bags should be a minimum of 6" X 6" square and weigh between 14 and 16 ounces.

1. cut your fabric in a 6.5in X 6.5in square

2. With right sides together sew a 1/2in seam allowance around the square. Leave about 2-3 in open in the middle of one side. Used for filling the bags after you turn them right side out.

3. Sew another line around you bag between the seam & edge. This helps with strength from being tossed around so much. My first row was done with the seams being cut & the second row was done cornered to since there is more pressure from the corn on this seam.

4. Turn you bag right side out. Push out all your corners & fill with corn. I used cracked corn because I already had some available.

5. Tuck in the ends of the hole & stitch the 2 sides together backstitching at both ends.

Thes were made in less than 15mins. I made them using cotton instead of regulation duck cloth and I used cracked corn instead of the whole kernal style. But still pretty easy & cheap.

Star Wars rebel logo knitting chart

2008-12-01T15:21:00.000-08:00

I was playing with photoshop to see if I can make a kniting chart & finally figured it out with the rebel alliance logo. So enjoy.

maroon triangle shawl

2008-11-16T17:06:00.000-08:00

I decided to list a couple of the shawls I have made. This was a fairly quick crochet so it is at a very cheap price on my shop if anyone is interested. I love making shawls but I really don't know many people who have the style that would like one. I personally love them. But then again I love old victorian clothing & I think corsets should come back but I'm the minority. I'm currently working on a star pattern one out of a mustard boucle yarn that is working up pretty fast.

Williams eatery in Yellow Springs

2008-11-09T15:52:00.000-08:00

Chuckles & I decided to make a stop in Yellow Springs on our way back from Fairborn. I love hitting the Import house & I wanted to check out all the new knitting graffiti. While there we stopped by Williams eatery & catering. It's a new restaurant where Gypsy's cafe use to be. I noticed it when we were at the street fair but it was way to busy to take a peek. They had a menu posted outside, which BTW I LOVE when restaurants do this. Nothing bugs me more than going somewhere new & looking at the menu & detesting everything they have. Just save me the time buy posting it outside then I'll know if I want to try. Anyways the restaurant serves a 50/50 menu of american style food & peruvian, which I had never tried. I have what my boss calls a white girl stomach. I don't do spicy. I love it but it doesn't love me. So, I'm always a little iffy about trying new stuff. I went simple with chicken skewers & Chuckles did papas rellenos which neither of us had heard of before. We also tried their deep fried broccoli. OMG this was like the best dinner experience we have had in ages. The broccoli had a light breading & I think maybe some cheese, I swear I'm going to start having cravings for that stuff it was so good. My chicken skewers were perfect even really moist, which most restaurants around here can't do. Chuckles papas rellenos was pretty flippin good also. I would definitely recommend it. I know we will be going back.

Halloween graffiti

2008-10-15T15:02:00.000-07:00

I pass this wall coming home from work every day. I always want to stop & take pictures because the artwork is amazing. Today this was up & I had to stop. Click on the picture for a larger view.

Here are some of the other pieces that are currently up. The artwork changes on almost on a daily basis. I can't believe some of the work that goes into some of these pieces.

Standing at the middle of the wall this is what it looks like both ways. As you can see some of the most detailed work is closer to the street. That is also a highway overpass in the background.

Pimpin my shop

2008-10-06T14:20:00.000-07:00

I got this great decal from http://www.ceejay77.etsy.com/ the other day & just finished putting it on my car. I would definitely recommend her shop if you are looking for advertisement. I own an 04 Saturn Ion & this large decal fit perfectly. I was looking for something a little different than just a basic website. I wanted something that people would notice. The shipping was really fast & it was super easy to put on my car. I even used a plastic pie server & it worked fine.

don't kill me for not posting

2008-10-04T13:24:00.000-07:00

Yes I know I'm a lamer for not posting but you know how life is. I've been crazy busy lately. I was working 2 jobs until the beginning of Sept & I FINALLY quit GE (thank god). Oh how I hated that place. Since I no longer work there I can finally say this....If you have a credit card with GE Consumer Finance or GE Money get rid of it. Well hell while your at it get rid of any credit card, they are evil & people do not realise how much you are getting screwed having one. Trust me on this. Get a plain old debit card from your bank with a major credit card logo on it if you want to use it for reservations or buying online. That's all you really need. If you don't have the money for it don't buy it.

This week chuckles bought me something shiney......This!!! >
The picture totally doesn't do it justice. It looks like an antiques & I'm pretty sure it is a one of a kind. I LOVE it!!

I'm going to try & keep my blog more up to date now that I work mon-fri which is totally weird to me. I can't remember the last time I had weekends off. I've also joined the new street team on etsy for LGBT's so I'm hoping to have more to write about. Right about now I'm having more issues in my everyday life going on instead of crafty stuff & I'm not going to bore people with that.

slow cooker carrier pattern

2008-07-05T17:57:00.000-07:00

The bag can be made with less than 1 skein of worsted weight yarn.
The stitch is very dense & you do not need to line it if you do not wish to. This pattern will fit a 2 quart size slow cooker. There are variations in different slow cooker sizes but this has enough give in the stitch to fit all sizes. When not in use the bag folds up & can be stored inside your slow cooker.

Please be conscious & use a non-flammable yarn if your slow cooker is the type that gets hot on the outside.
You will need to know how to do the following for this pattern:
chain
work in the round
slip stitch
HDC-half double crochet
work into the bottom of a stitch
work in the back loop only of a stitch
work with 2 strands of yarn held together

This pattern is a 1 page .pdf file. The email will be sent to you within 24 hours of purchase. I will send to the email address listed on your paypal account unless another is stated in the note to seller section of your transaction. If you are unaware of how to open a .pdf file just let me know on your buyer notes & I can send it as regular text via e-mail from a hotmail account.

Conditions of use:
you are able to sell the completed items everywhere EXCEPT online
please do not copy and distribute this pattern including via email
please do not resell
please do not try to say that this is your original pattern it is copy written
please do not post it in public forums or places like blogs

If you have an questions or problems with the pattern feel free to ask.
All pattern sales are final.
$ 4.00 USD

totally depressing post

2008-06-07T21:08:00.000-07:00

I have had the last 2 weeks from hell. My father had a heart attack & died on the 27th. Add to that he didn't have insurance on his house to cover his death, didn't marry his long time g/f & had just refinanced the house. SOOOO nobody can afford to pay for it. My future step-mother doesn't make enough to cover even the mortgage. So what can we do, it's not even like it's a profitable market to sell during. We probably wouldn't even make the money back for how much he had it financed out for. Plus my bro & I have to be the bad man & pretty muck kick her out of the house she has lived in for the last 4-5years. I won't even go into how FUBAR the death benefits are. I got thru the funeral pretty well all things considered I thought I would be comatose. Then Chuckles woke up a day or 2 later with his eye swelled shut from an infected stye. Then dylan had a massive seizure. THEN we go out thurs night & what happens I get food poisoning. I couldn't leave the bathroom for most of the day & I never get sick. We also don't have much money from all the unpaid time we had to take for the funeral so I'm pretty much in a fuck it mood about everything. And everything is due right now. Fun times.

New job

2008-05-10T21:28:00.000-07:00

Where have I been you ask.....Well I got a new job as a seamstress WOO HOO!! I still have to stay at GE for the benefits but damn if I'm not happy. I started wed & I LOVE it. It's a great company & I really love the women I work with. I hope it just keeps getting better and better. The company just started but they are growing by leaps & bounds. I also splurged & bought a 80GB ipod. I've wanted one for forever. I'm really not in a blogging mood lately & I'm dead tired but thought I would give an update on my life.

Yard sale season

2008-05-02T23:41:00.000-07:00

Oh how I love spring & yard sales. Yes I'm a thrift store & yard sale junkie. What can I say, I really hate seeing things end up in a landfill. I found a post on craigslist wed for a sale that had a bunch of craft supplies. So thurs before chuckles had to go to work we stopped by. It was only 5-10mins from the house. I actually got up early, duh shopping. Anyways they were selling crochet magazines for .10 each. I got 15 enough for myself, my future swap partner & chuckle's mom. They are from the early 90's so some of the sweaters are more humorous than useful but some of the doilies have some great stitches. I've already finished one I'm probably going to give it to my mom for mothers day. I also got a shoebox full of thread spools for $5. My new schedule starts next week so hopefully we will be able to hit more sales since we both have fridays off now. I'm hoping to score some cool vintage jewelry, my bead collection is seriously lacking lately.

A year in review sewing

2008-05-01T00:46:00.000-07:00

Nintendo controller pillow for an x-mas gift. Machine & hand sewn.

Eyeball pincushion. Hand sewn, the eyelid came out bigger than expected but it was my first try. The bottom has a pop bottle cap inside.

Wood grain wallet. Machine sewed. I didn't want to sell it, I liked it so much.

Zombie swap package. The doll was from the dollar store. She has brains coming out of her head & a large gash on her thigh. Hand sewn. The wallet was sewn wonky to resemble human skin.

DPN knitting needle cases. Machine sewed. Ziplock bags to separate needles stitched into center of pouch.

Headbands, machine stitched. The center picture is the second side fabric for both of the 2 headbands.

I thought I would post some of the sewn items I have made within the last year I may or may not have listed on etsy or here. I think I just like posting pics. It always makes a blog more enjoyable. I also just finished a rockin new dress. I've already worn it once. I'm going to see how it holds up after washing before posting pics.

Banksy knitting art

2008-04-30T23:42:00.001-07:00

I thought my fellow crafty chicks would get a kick out of this. I love graffiti especially when they make a political statement.

Dread headwrap

2008-04-29T02:33:00.000-07:00

I just finished a new headwrap. It's made so you can adjust the fit to how you like to wear them exactly. Made from 100% recycled cotton. I also pulled out my other head model from cosmetology school. I had to give her some cornrows because her hair was out of control. Which lead to the headwrap idea. This was pretty easy to make. If it sells I may make some more. I have quite a few colors of recycled cotton. I really wish my sales would pick up on etsy. We really need the extra money I was pulling in from it. Even if it was a small amount it did pay a couple bills.

I would love to get another job, my current one seems to be sucking the life out of me. I've applied with the county a million times but the only one that showed any interest was for call center work. I can't do that again, especially with Job & family services. It's hard enough to give negative answers to the people I work with now, I couldn't do it if it was something like denying a mom food stamps.

Hand job

2008-04-24T17:31:00.000-07:00

Before

I've been thinking of getting a mannequin hand to use for displays on my shop. And where else would I go to look for such an item that didn't cost an arm & a leg *snort* http://www.mendelsons.com/ of course. I got this little beauty for $10. It was actually the only hand they had. They had torsos, butts & feet but only one hand. She was pretty beat up, she looks kinda like Michael Jackson. Anyways after a good scrub some sanding & 3 coats of acrylic paint I have a new model. I was thinking of using floral foam to make the wrist longer for my wrist warmers but then she would be top heavy. I'll have to think about it to see what I can come up with .

After

extra wide headbands

2008-04-24T00:13:00.000-07:00

These are 2 of the headbands I have been working on lately. Both are from recycled yarn. The brown is cotton with chenille swirls & the grey is wool. I really like them. If my hair was a long enough to put into a ponytail I would wear one. I'll probably be listing these on etsy within the next couple days.

I also finished up this adorable baby top. How cute did this come out. I found these t-shirts really cheap & bought the only 2 they had. The monkey head is made of felt & I came up with the pattern based on the ones already printed on the shirt. I only have it in an 18-24mos so not sure how many people will need that size. My thinking was if they are buying for a baby they can always buy a bigger size & they can grow into it

new wallets

2008-04-23T23:52:00.000-07:00

Ok here is my first wallet from the fabric samples I mentioned in my last post. Please do not take this as my best sewing. I did these around 3am fast & dirty just because I wanted to play. I used one of the uglier samples to practice on & the interior fabric came in one of the bags, it matches perfectly. I like it so much it's now my everyday wallet. It has a secret hidden pocket. When I open my wallet there is a little upside down pocket in the front that allows me to keep things hidden. The idea came from some stash wallets I say at a head shop in Yellow Springs. At the time I was like wow that is a cool idea but what would I use it for. Mine is a larger version. I can hide a good chunk of my credit cards & if I am on the way to the bank I can stash large amounts of cash. I'm kinda paranoid about people scoping out my wallet when I go to pay for things at a store then mugging me after. So what you see in it is my checkbook, register, around 12 bills, my new card carrier & some change.

The little card carrier is also from fabric samples. These were attached in threes to a larger coordinating sample. I didn't get as many of these, I'm going to be spreading them out more by using the samples on the outside & regular fabric for the lining since you really can't see it that well. The lighter one is for myself & the darker was for chuckles. The sides were already surged like that, I didn't do the wonky sewing. They are leather so I didn't want to rip out the surging because it would have left little holes. I don't think it is too noticeable in person.

Thrift store SCORE!!

2008-04-22T16:43:00.001-07:00

I totally love when I find great things at the thrift store. I went to 3 today looking for crochet pattern books & accessories for the hookers only swap I joined. I only found 1 pattern book, but man did I score in the fabric department. One of the stores I went to was selling fabric bags for $2.99, think tall kitchen bag size. I noticed a bunch of upholstery remnants in 2 of them so I bought them. OMG I got a shit load of Todd Oldham fabric samples. They are the ones they usually use for samples at furniture stores. Most are fairly large like 12in x 12in. I'm thinking of making some cute little wristlets & checkbook covers. I may even list the extras on etsy. I am so tickled pink. Then I got a bunch of funky vintage napkins. I've started buying up 70's napkins in browns & oranges, preferably with butterflies. I'm planning on stitching them all together for a funky little patchwork hippy dress. They are all surged already on the edges so I won't have to do that.

I just finished a green paisley long hippy dress that I am uber happy with. I wore it all day & LOVE it. It's made with a poly stretch fabric on the outside & a light cotton lining. Both fabrics are see thru alone. I wanted something for the festivals we go to. I needed something light for the days but I wanted it to be long so if we stayed for the fireworks my legs wouldn't be munched on by mosquitoes.

I also finished a couple wide cotton headbands I'm planning on listing soon. Very easy pattern but they came out really cute. I got some shell place mats from the thrift store a couple weeks ago. They were filthy. I washed them with a brush before taking them apart, but they were still greasy feeling. After getting all the beads apart I soaked them in a mixture of dish detergent & Oxi-clean. They finally came clean, I'm using them in a bunch of projects now. The holes in them are drilled like regular shirt buttons which is really cool. I kinda want to list some on etsy since I have a bunch but then again I don't want to give them up, I want to use them on everything

White trash garlic bread

2008-04-19T18:11:00.000-07:00

Super easy garlic bread recipe. It's YUMMY.

Hot dog buns-honey is better
butter
garlic salt
shredded mozzarella

Open the hot dog bun. Spread butter on both sides. Sprinkle on garlic salt then shredded cheese. Bake at 250 for about 15mins or until the cheese is melted.

Big bottom square bag

2008-04-14T23:29:00.000-07:00

I finished up the last little touches of my new purse pattern. I'm really happy with how it turned out. The bag can be made with less than 1 skein of the bottom color & less than 3/4 of a skein of the top color.

Working with a worsted weight yarn:

12in wide at the bottom

8.5in wide at the top

10in tall

4.5in wide handle hole

This pattern can be worked with a thicker or thinner yarn for a smaller or larger bag. The stitch is very dense & you do not need to line it if you do not wish to.

You will need to know how to do the following for this pattern:

chain

working down both sides of a chain

slip stitch

single crochet

double crochet

change colors (optional)

working in the round

join a new yarn

Conditions of use:

you are able to sell the completed items everywhere EXCEPT online

please do not copy and distribute this pattern including via email

please do not resell

please do not try to say that this is your original pattern it is copy written

please do not post it in public forums or places like blogs

All pattern sales are final.

Thank you for looking.

$4 USD

new bag pattern on the way

2008-04-14T03:46:00.000-07:00

I've got a new pattern in the works for a big bottom square bag. I've been working on it over the last couple days off & on while watching tv. It's really cute. I hope to take some pics & have it up within the next couple days.

Nothing major to report. We watched the remake of Day of the Dead tonight. I was pleasantly surprised. Not a classic, but not to bad. Granted the whole super zombies crawling across ceilings thing was a touch much but I would recommend it for the zombie fans out there. Oh & there was a cute little vegetarian zombie in it....who can resist that

Boobies!!!!!

2008-04-10T15:31:00.000-07:00

Ok the title is kinda childish but I'm feeling silly today. I just finished a new item for the shop. A breast shaped pincushion. How funny is this thing. I thought it might go over well since my boobie pillows are such a big hit when I give them as gifts. They are pretty quick to make. The body is knitted & the nipple is crochet. I'm hoping to list more skin tones if they sell.

I've also been experimenting with different animals made from silk ties, like my owls. I came up with this cute little penguin. I totally love him & don't really want to give him up but I know I never wear pins. I also made a cute little bird but I haven't finished attaching the pin so he isn't finished yet. I'm thinking of trying a peacock shape. I was telling a guy I work with about the different pins I am making & he was like do you want some more ties I have a bunch at home I don't wear anymore. I was like hell yeah bring them in I would love them. So hopefully tomorrow when I go into work I will have some ties waiting for me on my desk. I totally love getting craft supplies from people who were going to throw them out.

hooty hoot

2008-04-06T22:01:00.000-07:00

Owls owls everywhere I see owls. So I just finished a custom order for 8 of my silk tie owls. They are going to have a new home being resold at a local shop in KS by a fellow etsyian. It took me longer than expected to finish them due to the flue bug but I'm pretty happy with the variety.

I've also been obsessed with making scrap yarn hats in various colors. This is the only one I have pics of so far but I just finished a brown one & a green one. They are made on a knifty knitter so it comes out really loose & stretchy. The brim is crocheted.

sorry

2008-04-04T19:45:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry to everyone who reads my blog. Although there may not even be that many of you out there. Chuckles & I were struck by the flu bug for about a week. Since I have left my parents house & haven't been forced to get flue shots I really only get minor colds once in a while but this one really kicked my ass. I had this whole inner ear thing going w/o any ear/nose congestion which made me extremely dizzy. It was so weird, we both were coughing like we were 50yr old smokers but we had no lung congestion. I was even taking a shower on one of my worst days & closed my eyes, when I opened them back up I couldn't see. It freaked me out. So the last couple days I have been crafting up a storm when I have down time. It's so weird to not have energy to even sit up. I got a request from a customer on etsy for 8 of my owl pins, she wants to sell them in her local shop. How cool is that....... I will hopefully be done with them within the next day. I have also listed some mini skein yarn samples in my shop. I thought it was a great way to de-stash some of the yummy yarn I don't really have a bunch of & to make a little $ to help with bills. I have also been making scrap yarn hats in specific color, like all browns or all blues. They are coming out really cute & I'm hoping to have them listed within the next couple days.

In weight loss news my flu actually did some good because I lost about 3-4lbs while I was sick which means I am under the 260 mark. I haven't been under 260 in longer than I can remember. I think that must be my cap "natural" weight.

Right before I was sick last week I had to go to urgent care because I was having this horrible pain in my lower back that was making it hard to move. I am really suseptible to UTI's & have even had kidney infections so when I get back pain that is really really bad I go get it checked out. turns out I was having muscle spazms. Totally not fun BUT he gave me an anti-inflamitory & it was killer for my jacked up arm. I was like wow I love these little pills. I also got some muscle relaxers. Which to me wern't really a big deal. They made the pain stop enough so I could sleep & boy did they knock me out fast. I really don't get how people can become perscription drug addicts, I mean how fun is it to just pass out. If you are going to do something that is like a drug wouldn't the purpose be to get a buzz or something off of it. Just passing out & drooling on yourself doesn't really strike me as a good time. But then again I'm not an addict so I don't get most of those things.

How to recycle a sweater for the yarn

2008-03-12T20:28:00.000-07:00

So a few people have asked how to do this. This is a great tutorial with step by step instructions. After you recycle a couple sweaters you will get the basic idea. FYI invest in a yarn ball winder if you plan on doing this more than twice it is well worth it.

http://neauveau.com/recycledyarn.html

valentines day

2008-02-15T20:42:00.000-08:00

yeah ok so we are the biggest lamers of all time. We didn't do anything for valentines day. I got the boi a cute little zombie valentines card from here http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=7260004 If you know us then you know how appropriate it was. And I'm ordering a cute little ninja shirt from etsy. That was it. We were both like ehhh I don't want to go out it's too cold. Yes I know lame, but hey we love each other that's what the holiday is about not overpriced roses that will die in a couple days. We went to walmart & I was like just buy me a book I don't really need/want anything. We do our dinner & movie date night every week so a strict holiday doesn't really mean much to me.

My etsy shop has been rockin, I sold 6 items in the last 3 days.

I have a couple people testing new patterns for me so I may have a few new ones to list in my shop pretty soon. I have one for the market bag & the one I had for the yarn ball holder I'm thinking of listing.

I'm totally peeved I missed the first new episode of Jericho. I was saying all week set it up on your tivo you know you will forget. And what do I do, miss the first 15mins. ARGHH so I'll have to find it online. I made myself not watch it so I can know what's going on.

I didn't post about this before but I thought a few would be interested. I have been getting (ok maybe trying to get) really eco-friendly lately. Chuckles was laying on the couch one night while we were watching a movie & said wow I feel a lot of air coming thru this window. Our house is 110yrs old, but they did put in storm windows. I was like hmmmm lets see. I had some old tab top drapes from an old apt I lived in that had huge windows I was keeping for who knows why. I hung them up. They match ok & one panel is short so I put it over by where the cat like to look out. Then I was thinking about the back porch. we keep the door closed because it isn't heated, the windows out there aren't sealed so it just sucks the heat out of the house. I had put down my old rugs over the wood floor because it basically sits right on the foundation. Then I unhooked the dryer vent from going outside. I put a knee high pantyhose over the vent tube. We all have tried this at one time living in an apt. Anyways we keep the back door open when they dryer is on to keep the moisture on the porch down. Our heat bill has went down by $30 last month & the static electricity is gone with all that moisture. I'll post about it next month to see if the bill stays down or if it was a fluke.

waves wrist warmer pattern

2008-02-14T00:14:00.000-08:00

You will need to know how to do the following for this pattern:

chain

slip stitch

half double crochet

work in the back or front of a stitch

change colors (optional)

seam up two pieces

join a new yarn

This pattern is a 1 page .pdf file. The email will be sent to you within 24 hours of purchase. I will send to the email address listed on your paypal account unless another is stated in the note to seller section of your transaction.The pattern includes instructions for the 2 different sizes shown, long and short. It includes instructions if you would like to make it in 2 colors, as well as 2 sizes. This is for an adult size wrist warmer.c

Conditions of use:

you are able to sell the completed items everywhere EXCEPT online

please do not copy and distribute this pattern including via email

please do not resell

please do not try to say that this is your original pattern it is copy written

please do not post it in public forums or places like blogs

If you have an questions feel free to ask.

All pattern sales are final.

$3.50 USD

bottom up shawl w/o point pattern

2008-02-08T18:24:00.000-08:00

I really really love shawls/wraps, but I have a big problem with the triangle shaped ones. I love them because they are bottom up so you can make them as big as you want, but for someone like me who is almost 6ft tall by the time the shawl is wide enough for my arms it's point is dragging the floor. So I decided to come up with a shawl w/o a point. It makes a great cowl style scarf also.

yarn & hook size doesnt matter. This is a simple stitch so it is great for a busy yarn.
The picture shown is with a worsted weight recycled boucle & a K hook
Depending on if you want a shawl size or a scarf determines your base number. The below pattern is for a shawl size. Do more chains for a scarf size.
Beginning chain is multiples of 4 + 3

Round 1: ch 31, dc in 4th ch from hook, 1 dc in next 2 st, *ch1, skip next ch, 1 dc in next 3 stitches* repeat across, end with ch1 & 1 tr in last stitch
Round 2: ch4 (counts as dc ch1), turn, 3 dc in same ch1 space, ch1,* 3dc in next ch1 space, ch1* across to last space, tc in last space with last 3dcs
Repeat round 2 till desired length.

Some movie reviews

2008-02-06T20:16:00.000-08:00

Work is extremely slow tonight WOOO HOO so I thought I would give some reviews for the movies we saw within the last 2 weeks. I have spoilers so don't read if you don't like that.

Cloverfield
Ok so the big huge monster nobody has seen for millions of years because it lives so far down in the ocean, but miraculously it can breathe air & now feels the need to come ashore. For what? food? uhhh hello how many fish are in the sea to snack on. And his little parasites can breathe air also...Plus all fo them can see in light. Fish that live that far under water are like nocturnal animals their eyes have adapted to the dark. Ok so maybe it's an alien....umm ok where is the HUMONGOUS ship it would have had to take. Ok so I got past the unlikely monster because if I sat there & thought about it I would have a headache. The human characters were great. It had a very 9/11 apocalypse feel to it which I really dig. I think they should have done something like this with zombies. I liked it but I love those neighbor against neighbor end of the world fighting for your life movies. I would wait for video or cheap seat & if you see it in the theatre sit in the back so you wont get motion sickness.

The Eye
Ok totally not scary...ok well the creepy no-face floating guy in the elevator gave me the heebie geebies but otherwise I kept thinking ok what the hell is going on. I like Jessica Alba ever since she did Dark Angel & this was better than the Fan4 but it was kinda cheesie. She did play a good blind girl thought very convincing. Don't go expecting to be scared. I say wait for the video.

Ok lets see if blogger is being nice

2008-02-05T22:31:00.000-08:00

It was crazy warm today. I wore flip-flops...yeah in Feb in Ohio. Sometimes global warming has it's perks. But it has been raining pretty heavy tonight & last night, but it's better than snow & it's great for sleeping.

I have a couple of pictures I need to upload of the things I have been working on. One of the previous posts showed all the great goodies I got from my swap partner in the owl themed swap. Here is what I sent her. From top left clockwise. A tea pot cozy inspired by her wists. The bag part is fleece. The body of the owl is a felted sweater & the rest of the fabric is scraps I had laying around. A book pouch w/book. The fabric is actually a hankie I found at Wal-mart for .99cents. Some tea bags (I love sharing different tea flavors). 2 owl pins made from men's ties. There is one in my etsy shop if you like them. An owl hot pad. The stitch pattern for it actually started out as a hat with a different yarn that I messed up & I was like hmmmm I bet this would be cute in owl colors. A set of knitting needles made out of dowels & fimo. I'm not really great with clay so I made them pretty basic & used those cheepie letter beads for the eyes. Some refillable catnip toys & some fabric with owls on it.

Next up the new hat I tried to post last night. Made from recycled yarn in a acrylic wool blend. It is sooooo yummy & soft I kind of want to keep it for myself. Sometimes I wish I could gush about how much I love items on the description section of my etsy listing, but I know it sounds unprofessional. The bad is also recycled yarn 100% wool. This is from the basic cloche pattern I listed & this is how it turns out with 1 strand of bulky.

And last but not least the cool little eco-friendly tote I made from some recycled cotton. I hope these sell. They do take some time to make & I'm selling them dirt cheap compared to the work I put into them but if it helps the environment it's worth it. This is my original pattern so please don't try to copy it for profit, thanks. It fits an entrée size tupperware container & is made so you can carry your lunch & keep it hot/cold.

What I have been working on

2008-02-04T23:32:00.000-08:00

So I took my mother to the thrift store last monday because I found out it was .50cent day the week before. She loves going to the thrift store to get old t-shirts to wear while cleaning that have funny comments. I went for the huge amount of good quality sweaters they have. It's one of the few thrift stores I can go to where I don't itch after I leave & doesn't have that musty smell. So I entered into the bargain hunter swap & can only spend $5, Chuckles was like honey that swap is perfect for you, you can probably pimp your partner out for that much.......and I did BUT I can't post pics yet because I haven't sent. I will show you 2 of the things I made from they yarn I got for myself.

This yarn was originally going to be for my swap partner but

1. It took freaking forever to take apart, so far I still have only recycled 1 sleeve

and

2. when I started taking it apart the teal would slip over the white yarn that is in the middle making little bumps, which to me looks like poor quality, so I got her something better.

I also made this really cool lunch carrier out of some cotton yarn I recycled. I've been into a lot of eco-friendly items lately & wanted to come up with a lunch tote that was a little out of the ordinary. It fits around an entree size tupperware container.

OK my computer is acting up I will post the rest later with pics if I can

dread tam

2008-01-27T18:17:00.000-08:00

I had made this hat a while back with a knifty knitter & scraps of yarn. It has been at my desk at work for some time. I was sitting there today thinking hmmm I wonder what it would look like with a real brim. Well I had a pair of circular needles with me, thanks to my nifty new needle roll for the previous posts & worked up a brim. I really like it & almost want to keep it for myself but it kinda snug for my big mellon so I listed it on etsy. It was super easy & a great way to use up scraps.

Basic cloche pattern

2008-01-25T19:35:00.000-08:00

Working with 2 strands of worsted weight held together or 1 strand of bulky
K hook

join each round with a slip stitch into the top of the ch2

Round 1: Chain 4, join with sl stitch
Row 2: Ch 2, 8 HDC in ring, join to beginning ch2
Row 3: Ch2, work 2 HDC in each stitch around
Row 4: Ch2, work 1 HDC in same stitch, 1 HDC in next stitch, *2 HDC in next stitch, 1 HDC in next stitch* around
Row 5: Ch2, work 1 HDC in same stitch, 1 HDC in next 2 stitches, *2 HDC in next stitch, 1 HDC in next 2 stitches* around
Row 6: Ch2, work 1 HDC in same stitch, 1 HDC in next 3 stitches, *2 HDC in next stitch, 1 HDC in next 3 stitches* around
Row 7: Ch2, work 1 HDC in same stitch, 1 HDC in next 4 stitches, *2 HDC in next stitch, 1 HDC in next 4 stitches* around
Row 8: Ch2, work 1 HDC in same stitch, 1 HDC in next 5 stitches, *2 HDC in next stitch, 1 HDC in next 5 stitches* around
Row 9-15: Work 1 HDC in each stitch
Row 16: ch2, HDC in next stitch, *HDCtog over next 2 stitches, work 1 HDC in next 5 stitches*, repeat
Row 17: ch2, HDC in next stitch, *HDCtog over next 2 stitches, work 1 HDC in next 4 stitches*, repeat
Row 18: ch2, HDC in each stitch around
Row 19: ch2, 2HDC in each stitch around

So in simple words. Work 6 increase rows, 6 regular rows, 2 decrease rows, 1 regular row & 1 increase row

This is a basic formula for a cloche, so you can change it up with different sitches/colors etc.

I try to check this pattern every couple months with fresh eyes to make sure I didn't forget anything. So if you see a problem let me know.

Latest etsy item

2008-01-25T10:20:00.000-08:00

I just finished this puffy stitch hat. Its my original pattern, I may play with it a little to get the spaces smaller but I like it. But man did it take a lot of yarn to make. This may turn into a stash buster pattern. After listing it I made another sale on a panta YAY! I really wish I could live off of my etsy shop but I don't see that happening any time soon.

Owl swap

2008-01-25T10:04:00.000-08:00

This post is going to be mostly pics. I'm not feeling too chatty lately but I wanted to share the awsomeness I received today from woobie on craftster.

This too cute emboridered pillow & pouch that will be my new eyeglass case.

the back of the pillow. A handcarved stamp (too cool) and a little felt pin.

a needle roll w/needles. I've been getting into knitting a lot more lately so this will be handly & it has little pockets so I can use it for my crochet hooks too. And a cute little pair of earrings that I think will match a bunch of my outfits

This adorable little backpack

And the cute little charm bracelet some fluffy yarn & the little notecard that came with it

Eco-friendly etsy items

2008-01-07T19:10:00.000-08:00

I listed 2 new items on etsy within the last 24hrs. I love making earth friendly items, I hope they sell well.

This cute little market bag AKA an alternative to plastic shopping bags was made from a pretty sturdy acrylic. Isn't the color great? Anyways I came up with the pattern & I really like it. It stretches to almost double its size (check out my shop for pix of it packed full).

I also listed some pink wash cloths made from recycled cotton. I thought they would be a great gift for an environmentally friendly mommy to be. The yarn is sooo soft.

2008-01-06T00:21:00.000-08:00

Chuckles & I went to see Aliens vs. Predator 2 on new years. It was an ok movie. Noting really great or horrible about it. Although they did one big horror movie no-no. The killed kids & pregnant women. I was totally not happy with that. I would wait for it to hit the $1 theatre or video.

In crafty news. My shop has been doing really well. I thought Jan would be pretty slow but I sold 4 things in the last 48hrs WOO HOO.

I listed these cut little owl pins. I wasn't really sure about the price but 1 is already gone. Maybe I'll make a couple more since I have a couple ties left. I really like them & may make a couple for myself.

Nintendo pillow

2008-01-01T19:25:00.000-08:00

So this is one of the things I made for the boi for x-mas. Can I tell you how hard it is to make christmas items for someone who doesn't like anything I make. This did get a huge smile though YAY!! My brother who is also a gamer thought it was pretty cool. It was made from a fabric similar to sweat pant material I found in the dollar bin at Wal-mart. All of the "parts" were made from felt so I wouldn't have to do any hemming. It was pretty easy. I did almost all of it on the machine except for the red buttons & the 2 black middle buttons which I stitched by hand.

I also made a big guy robe. Casual Male sells robes for $80 isn't that ridiculous. So I took a regular men's robe which fits everywhere else just gaps too much in the front and added a flannel trim all around the front. It ended up making a natural hood which chuckles loves during the winter after a hot shower. I've only taken before pics so I will have to post them later.

Christmas with family

2007-12-30T20:23:00.000-08:00

There are some naughty pic in this post just to warn you. My christmas was pretty good. I had an almost all envelope x-mas gotta love that. Chuckles got me a Coach purse & my dad got me a mini sewing machine, which unfortunately is a piece of crap. I didn't get any more pics of the items I made but I will take pics of the nintendo controller pillow I made chuckles & was a pretty big hit.

So my mom got a gag gift from my dad, she was joking with him about wanting him to fix her up with one of his friends & kept asking about him in a joking manner. So what does my dad do.....Calls chuckles & I and says lets got to Hustler, yes as in Larry Flint. We have a hustler Hollywood about 20mins away since we are so close to Cincy. My family is pretty open about sex but it was cracking me up when we went to look thru the toys & I would say "Hey dad look at this one" guys kept turning around giving me the weirdest looks hehehe

So anyways this is my mom after she got the box open & realized what it was. That blurriness to the pic is 9 smokers in a living room. I'm the only non-smoker it almost killed me. That is my cousin who is the coolest...he's a vietnam vet that just amazes me.

This is my mom inspecting her new boyfriend. yes that is what you think it is.

This is my dad with his gift of a pussy whistle from chuckles. Just so you know my dad doesn't believe in wearing clothes without holes or stains even though he has a whole closet full. OIY

I will posts some pics of the nintendo pillow when I have more time I have been running ragged this week.

New items & The Mist review

2007-12-15T17:46:00.000-08:00

I know most of my posts lately have been about my shop, honestly that's about all I have time for outside of x-mas presents. I won't bore you with all of the x-mas items because they are pretty much the same things over & over just in different colors. I am making something really cool for chuckles but cant post pics until after x-mas. Lets just say it's gamer inspired ;)

I listed this hat tonight that was based on a pattern I found online, but changed up a bunch to fit my needs. It's made with 2 strands, 1 of acrylic & 1 of 100% wool that I recycled. I really like it. These hats have been selling really well most sell within a couple days of listing. I really wish I could make them in a shorter time frame so I can list more but my right arm has been killing me. I can barely move it up & back without any pain. I may take some of my x-mas money & indulge in a massage this year.

I also listed some neckwarmers. My first time making them but they came out very warm. I almost want to keep them for myself.

We went to see The Mist last Tues. I haven't read the story in a good 10-15yrs so I can't remember if it matched the book exactly. I do remember in the book they never really saw the monster just the tentacles & in the movie there is more than 1 monster & you get to see them all. I was actually pleasantly surprised by the movie. The last stephen king movie I saw was 1408 which SUCKED big hairy monkey balls. This time I really enjoyed it. Granted it was really sad because of how realistic they made the crazy religious fanatics. Chuckles & I were both like this is why you never stay with a group of people when the shit hits the fan they either get crazy & start trying to kill people or they do something stupid & get people killed just like in zombie movies. When civilization collapses you always just stay in your own little family. Oh & if you aren't a big fan of creepy crawlies or bugs you won't like it. Even I had the willies from all the mega sized bugs. I would def recommend seeing it just be prepared for being a little sad at how selfish & fucked up society is.

The beginning of a handmade christmas

2007-11-29T22:36:00.000-08:00

Here are a few of the handmade items I have made as x-mas presents. So far I've started on gift baskets for the "moms". I've been making crochet washcloths & I may make more just to practice different stitches. I got 8 bartowels for 4.99 and cut them in 1/2 to get more out of it and made towl toppers out of fabric I had in my stash. This was my first time trying button holes, very easy. I'm surprised I havent thought about trying them before. I had bought a bunch of dishcloths that I was going to embroider but decided to make boo boo bunnies out of. My soon to be step-mom has her bathroom done in bunnies so I thought she would like them.

I also got a great deal on casserole dishes at Old Time Pottery for $3.99 & found some fabric in the $1 bin at walmart that looks semi-classy that I'm making casserole dishes out of. I may make hot pads if I have enough time.

I also went to the thrift store this week to get some sweaters to recycle for x-mas presents. My MIL said she would wear a calorimetry & told chuckles she would wear a hat if I made her one. She crochets also so it's weird to make something for someone who can do it also. Chuckles said she doesn't do it as well as I do & thinks she secretly likes my work. This is the first completed item a calorimetry done on 10.5 needles with 70 stitches CO.

Etsy items

2007-11-24T19:10:00.000-08:00

I've sold $81+ worth of stuff on etsy over the holiday. Man I love black friday madness. So I had to list a couple new item. A pink panta, a slouchy newsboy cap & a mint chocolate chip colored panta. If you are interested check out my shop.

http://www.missmotleys.etsy.com/

I know my blog has been kinda lame lately. I have been making x-mas items, nothing really interesting enough to talk about. I promise more after the holiday season.

Beowulf

2007-11-20T23:06:00.000-08:00

Went to see Beowulf tonight. Kinda cheesie but the 3D action was pretty good. A lot of people in the theatre were laughing at parts I'm sure the writer didn't mean to be funny cause it was just corny. They did show a preview for another 3D movie with Brendan Frasier Journey to the center of the earth. I liked the old version so we may check it out, it looked pretty good.

I listed 2 new hats on etsy before we left for the movies & when I got back I had sold 3 items. WOO HOO maybe I can pay a bill or 2. This is the other hat I listed today. It's really soft & very cute I hope someone buys it.

2007-11-16T16:41:00.000-08:00

I weighed myself about 2 weeks ago & I have lost 30lbs. I guess you can tell now because a couple people have commented on it. Chuckles was like it looks like you lost it all in your legs. Probably because all my jeans look like a potato sack on me. But I'm not complaining as long as I don't loose it in my tits.

Today is Chuckles b-day so I am taking him to see Saw IV. I'm not a huge fan because to me the sequels were never as good as the first but he loves it. We are going to the mongolian for dinner since it right across the street from the movie theatre.

I got an e-mail yesterday from someone in my past I haven't talked to in years. Isn't it so weird to hear from someone after so many years it brings back so many memories & feelings you totally forgot about.

No crafty pics but I will have some later I need to list some pillow cases chuckles granny made after I iron them.

tree hugger calorimetry

2007-11-12T12:24:00.000-08:00

I have been in a tree mood lately not sure why but they just seem so beautiful to me. No big bushy green ones, but dry willowy ones with thin branches. Anyways I was bored at work yesterday & had some of this acrylic that reminds me of the colors of nature. All I had were some 10.5 needles free so I tried it. I CO 84 or 86 stitches which made it 24in long. and then I did a freehand tree on the side. I really like it. I kinda want to keep it but I listed it on etsy. We need money more right now than I need any more accessories. Although we went to the flea market & the African dudes there had some really great Coach, Prada, D&G & D&B fakes so I may splurge & get one for my x-mas present to myself. I really want a lime green prada I saw a girl carrying at Krogers the other day. Granted it wouldn't match anything in my closet but it was so pretty.

Chuckles & I took my mom to the grocery store. She told us if we take her once a week she will buy us groceries so I was like hey we are short on cash why not we never get that much anyways. We went to the Krogers by our old apartment that basically only hires dykes in the deli dept. They got to know me when we lived there but I always thought it was so funny that when it was just me they were just polite & got my turkey never talking much but when Chuckles is with me they all become chatty cathy. Every one of them does it. It's like what you can't talk to a femme because she might magically turn hetero right in front of you. Only if a butch is with her, it makes her more queer *eye roll*. But I will admit I do enjoy the better service I get & my mom got it too when she ordered her meat. Oh well......

new etsy items

2007-11-09T14:05:00.000-08:00

I listed another scrap yarn scarf, this one is a scarflette.

I also listed a calorimetry. I may list a few more items I need to make some extra money. I don't really have anything interesting to show. I have been mostly making dishcloths while at work for x-mas presents.

romance novel humor

2007-10-31T19:47:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9IacjxH3lY

OMG I laughed so hard I almost peed my pants!

Sunflowers & calorimetry

2007-10-29T01:08:00.001-07:00

These are the pics I wanted to post last week. First the beautiful sunflowers chuckles brought home for me last friday before I had to be at work. Don't I have the sweetest boi sometimes.

I have also been making calorimetrys from knitty.com. This is my 2nd & 3rd completed one. This is my first followed pattern. These 2 are made with cheapie acrylic & I CO 90 stitches. I have another brown one. I was thinking of listing a couple on etsy to see if anyone is interested.

Dirty old men

2007-10-28T10:17:00.000-07:00

I usually don't talk about work that much because unless you work here you wont really get it but I must share today.........

A dirty old man old enough to be my father just called & as the convo was going on he was like oh I would never lie I'm a minister....Oh realllllly correct me if I'm wrong but isn't today SUNDAY your one day of work? lie #1

I didn't pay you guys because my car was stolen, well actually both my cars a Jag & a Mercedes were stolen within the last month *eye roll* then later well I had to put down $1000 to get a new Mercedes and they are cutting me a check for the one that was stolen for 8k. Ok how old is this Mercedes & what happened to the Jag didn't get any money from it because it doesn't really exist. Now my thinking was you have to scratch up a grand for a down payment on your mercedes but you cant pay $15 for your credit card payment, wouldn't common sense say if you can't afford $15 maybe you need to get something like a Saturn just a thought. I made a joke that maybe he needs to get a car that is less tempting & he replied that well he is in a church community & has to have something stylish. Uhhh ok since when is it better to fork over a buttload for an unnecessary car than it is to give to charity. I grew up with a Grandmother who I would consider the most giving christian in the world very mother teresa like & she would give a person the shirt off her back if they would need it & you would never catch her in anything designer because she had much better use for her money. when did it become acceptable for ministers to care more about their image.

Then he proceeded to ask me personal questions. Am I married, did I go to college, where I live, basically being a perv saying he was looking for a younger woman to marry EWWWW. My smartmouth had to pipe in even though I can't really say anything I find ways of making a point. He started with the do you go to church speal. I was like nope & there was the usually come back from him to which I always reply I don't feel you have to go to an organized church to be a religious person. That reply always gets the money grubbers real fast MWAH HA HA they never like that one. Then he was talking about going to anti-gay rallies & doing the "right thing" ohhh if he only knew.

Then he was like well if you get any info on my problem you can call me & tried to give me his number. I was thinking dude I know EVERYTHING about you already don't even try it. I really hate dirty old men, I mean come on even if it wasn't totally gross on his end for all he knows I could be 400lbs with warts all over my face.

Ok rant over.......

Blogger is a PIMA

2007-10-20T17:42:00.000-07:00

Well I took a bunch of pics today including the beautiful sunflowers chuckles surprised me with but blogger is being a big ol butt so I can't post anything. GRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!

I did list my scrap scarf that I posted a pic of in my last post on etsy if anyone is interested in it.

I also made 3 new calorimetries but cant post pics again. Oh well I'll try later. I wish you could kick websites, wouldn't that be an intersting inventions......virtual butt kicks hmm

lots of pics

2007-10-15T00:50:00.000-07:00

I've finished a couple things recently. A hat made of a bulky lambswool, angora & alpaca blend that was so much fun to play with even if it made me sneeze. This was my first time making a hat on straight needles instead of circulars. I think prefer circs, I wasn't really big on the seaming & it was kinda hard to judge the size in straight needles. This was really fast to make. Those are also my new glasses that I really love.

I have a couple of stitch books that I have been trying to work my way thru practicing new stitches. I just learned the waffle weave (yes I know I'm behind). Anyways I made a carry case for chuckles new GPS. It was just seamed up on 2 sides & I made the handle from chains & weaving it thru the stitches. Uber easy & it has a good padding for the GPS screen.

I also finished a scrap yarn scarf. I had 2 full large ziploc bags full of scraps. I am 3/4 of the way finished with my second scarf & I haven't even gotten down to 1 bag yet. This was made holding 2 strands together & using a knifty knitter. I relaly like it but I think I may list it on etsy. I was thinking of making something similar to this but doing it in rainbow shades. Like making an all red section of various scraps then going to orange etc. I think it would come out really cute.

Recycled hat

2007-10-11T16:16:00.000-07:00

I haven't really been crafty lately. I only joined 1 swap & I will post pics of what I sent after my partner receives. I did however finish a hat I have been working on for quite some time. I made it on some plastic circulars that I received in that huge box of yarn a couple posts back. They are pretty old but I must say I really liked working with the. It's weird because when it comes to crochet hooks I despise plastic & love wood but with knitting needles I like plastic & dislike wood, weird. Anyways here is the hat I finished. I cant remember the needle size off-hand but I would say somewhere between 5 & 7. I also made a really cool scarf from all of my scraps that I'm thinking of listing on etsy. It's so funky I can't decide if I want to keep it myself.

In entertainment news we went to see Eastern Promises last week. The movie was good even though I figured out what was happening like 1/2 way thru but the ending sucked. If you don't want a spoiler don't read any further. Vigo is a cop in the movie. DUH I figured that out as soon as he fucked the girl in the whore house & gave her that card you knew something was going to happen to help her get out of the situation. My pet peeve was ok he is a good guy & the midwife keeps the baby WHY didn't they end up together it was so stupid. Instead of making him a cop & giving everyone the hope the move would be a HEA why not just keep him as a good bad guy then you could be like aww they can't be together because he is mafia but you know he really loves her. Making him a cop was just stupid I kept thinking ok he took down the boss & his next in line is a alkie so it wouldn't be hard to take him out why does he need to stay undercover.....stupid. BUT I did like the full frontal of Vigo. Even though I don't get into penis watching I think men in movies get it way easy by never showing the goods. I am all about the equal opportunity fool frontal. Let the world know some of your fav dudes aren't hung like a horse.

And on that note I'm off to read some smut. I must recommend http://www.ellorascave.com/index.asp if you are tired of the same old romance novels. They cater the the more modern descriptions instead of saying something like her flowering womanhood their authors use words like pussy & cunt which the feminist in me loves! And they also cater to people who like bondage, boy on boy, threesomes yada yada. Oh & most are ebooks so you can be a perv in the comfort of your own home ;)

Wristwarmer pattern

2007-09-26T11:19:00.002-07:00

Supplies:
Worsted weight yarn
H or I hook
tapestry needle (optional)

Stitch pattern:
Multiples of 2 + 1ch
Row 1: sc in second ch from hook and in each ch across
Row 2: Ch1, turn; skip first sc, (sc, dc) in next sc, *skip next sc, (sc, dc) in next sc; repeat from * across
Row 3: Ch1, turn; (sc, dc) in each dc across.
Repeat row 3 of pattern

Sc decrease: YO insert hook, YO insert hook in next stitch, YO pull thru all loops on hook

Pattern is worked from knuckles towards elbow.
Ch 29 (I have small hands so chain as many as you need to go around your knuckles in multiples of 2 + 1)
Work pattern stitch for desired length. (Make sure you remember how many rows you have completed so your warmers will be the same length.)
Last row work a HDC in each stitch around.
Seam up sides either with a needle or with slip stitches until the beginning of your thumb knuckle. I don't like to cut & join yarns so I worked sl along one side of the thumb opening then I joined the sides again.

Thumb:
Row 1:For thumb join yarn to any stitch & work 1 row of sc around hole. Don't join with a sl just keep working sc's
Row 2: Keep working in sc until 1/2 way down thumb start working sc decreases in every stitch until you reach the other side then work 1 sc in each stitch & 1 decrease at the stitch where your thumb "web" is.
I know it sounds weird. Basically just decreased on the outside of your thumb where your first knuckle would be & the web so it won't bunch. More decreases around the knuckle less in the web.
Row 3: repeat row 2
Row 4: work 1 sc in each stitch, in last stitch use a sl stitch & weave in ends

If you are wondering I used a 100% wool from a recycled sweater.

update 02/15/08: I was asked if this was an adult or child's size. This pattern is for an adult size. You can make it in any size you need though. The multiples are listed at the top & can go up or down if you need to. Just wrap it around the knuckles of the person they will be made for & it will fit the rest of the wrist fine.

Update 11/28/09 This lovely etsy seller http://www.etsy.com/shop/needlepattern is trying to sell my FREE pattern. If you ever see this or any of my other free patterns for sale, please let me know. I am offering these to you for free to use for personal use & no one has my permission to sell them.

Resident Evil

2007-09-22T06:49:00.000-07:00

So chuckles & I decided to go see resident evil last night. I have been waiting for this to come out for some time. If you know me then you know I love zombies & I love any movie that has a chick that kicks butt so I totally loved this movie. Can I just say how entertaining it is to go see a movie that is about a video game. It's like all the gamers come out of the woodwork or their mom's basement & haven't seen daylight in a couple year. It's so fun to watch. Anywho go see resident evil, if you liked the others you will like this one. I interested in seeing 30 days of nights now & Hitman from the previews.

In crafty news I haven't been doing much because I have been reading a lot lately but I did make a pair of wrist warmers & listed them on etsy. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7164090 if they don't sell I'm going to keep them for myself they are uber warm.

I will write up some book reviews in the next week or so. I have been reading basically a book a day. The first 3 books in Lora Leighs Breed series & almost the whole dark hunter series by Kenyon

Book kick

2007-09-09T18:28:00.000-07:00

I've been on a romance novel kick lately due to boredom. I went to Krogers the other night at like 1:30 am because I was bored & picked up a couple trashy novels hoping they would put me to sleep. Yes I like my smut what can I say. I'm not really into porn movies or magazines......even though I knew a girl who did them, but that's a whole different story. But I like my romance novels. Yes they are predictable & you could probably read them by skipping whole pages/paragraphs (and I do sometimes) but they are fun & light hearted. They are my version of a romantic comedy. Anyways one of the books I got was "Hidden Agendas" by Lora Leigh. I really liked it. Light on the plot but heavy in the naughty scenes. I hate romance novels that play up all the different character with elaborate name & you can't remember who is the lord & lady of which duke & duchess blah blah. So needless to say I will be looking for more of her books in store. I purchased a couple ebooks but they are really tiring on the eyes. I may hit half price book tomorrow.

I also recently applied for another job AGAIN with he city. They never reply to me so I'm not getting my hopes up. One girl I know took a civil service test & didn't get a call back until 2years later. Tells you how great the city of dayton is, now I know why our streets are so jacked up they sit around with their thumbs up their butts.

I got 3 passes to the movies today at work & they catered Mama DiSalvos not bad. It's pretty sad their catering is better than the restaurant itself. I will probably use my passes to go see the new resident evil that I have been waiting for. I hope its good.

2007-09-07T17:02:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in a while because we had guests over the holiday weekend. We went to Young's Dairy & Chuckles wants to take me to the sheep shearing on the 15th. I secretly think he just wants to play with the goats & sheep again but it's sweet anyways. I have knitted a couple hats & I'm in the middle of 2 star baby blankets. One to sell to a co-worker & one to list on etsy. I also recently listed some buttons & hats (one already sold) on etsy if anyone is interested. I've been using my kick ass bag that I posted ablut last time every day & I LOVE it. I even made a new wallet for it since my old leather one was getting dingy.

We went to see the new halloween last week. It was ok. Totally not what I expected from a Rob Zombie movie. It made the movie more realistic how he did it, showing why Mikey was fucked in the head because his mom was a stripper & his stepdad a perv yada yada but it was kinda boring. But the dude they got to play the adult Michael was freakin huge he had to be a pro wrestler or something. I would say wait for the DVD.

I don't really have any new pics except the one from when chuckles caught a baby bull frog in the back yard he was so cute. I'll have to post that one when I am home from work.

Amazing bag

2007-08-31T13:30:00.000-07:00

Check out the amazing bag I recieved from the secret craftster swap. She is bound to get great swap karma from such an awesome package. I'm usually not the type to gush about anything but this bad is pretty freakin sweet. I LOVE IT!!!!

free yarn & needles

2007-08-21T19:00:00.000-07:00

My dad's g/f is too cool she is the garage sale & freebie queen. Check out these huge boxes of goodies she got for me for free. One of her friends had to put her mother into a nursing home & she was cleaning out her items. The before boxes:

Yes those ar my toes (atleast they are painted) and yes that is miss jasmine rubbing on the side of the box. I swear she is like a crack fiend when it comes to boxes, plastic bage & paper. I was pouring yesterday when we came in but I couldn't sit still until I could go thru the box so I ran out to the car when it slowed a little bit. Anyways some after pics:

This is by no means everything. This is most of what I am keeping. The water bottle is full of straight needles & DPNs except 1 pair I'm using right now. Check out the vintage all plastic circulars they are pretty neat. Unfortunately all the circulars are small sizes & I need some large ones, but I'm not complaining. I do need some help identifying the wooden item in the top right corner. I was thinking it may be used to stuff small items but I'm not sure. If anyone can help I would appreciate it.

There were some other items I'm going to send to my swap partner so I won't mention them here. I also have a item I'm not sure about it looks like an accessory for an old kenmore sewing machine by my best guess maybe to make button holes & some fabric scraps that I plan to give to chuckles grandma (ducks & country hearts, not really my thing).

And here is the after of the yarn box after some winding. Its mostly acrylic. Only 3 small balls of cotton, 1 of mohair & maybe that large green ball in the middle is wool, I'll have to test it.

After box:

the walmart bag is all baby yarn so maybe someone will have a rugrat soon & I can use it. The other I may try to sell on etsy this winter & for x-mas presents.

I also received my package from the crochet bag swap. It was so worth the wait. Unfortuanately customs took 1/2 of the items. I'm thinking of stopping swaps for a while because of all the problems I'm having with the PO.

Here are the great items:

Weight loss

2007-08-19T17:16:00.000-07:00

I felt like telling someone this. Not like anyone reads my blog but I feel like sharing. I dropped down to part time at my job in Oct of last year due to the stress level. I was literally feeling suicidal & there is no job no matter how well it pays that will make me go on anti-depressants that I don't normally need (in my head anyways). So since Oct I have lost 20lbs!!!! I haven't been trying to loose weight, I came to terms with my curves long ago but it is nice for my clothes to fit a little better. I haven't really changed my diet except staying away from cafeteria food because I'm not at work when they are open. And I don't really exercise, the most I do is light cleaning & playing with the dog. But it's so cool to me that I have lost that much. Granted I'm not sure where maybe my pinky toe but it's still cool.

Maybe my flabby arms will start to disapper from all the knitting/crocheting.......I wish!

Blah

2007-08-16T19:44:00.000-07:00

I haven't really felt like blogging lately because I have been feeling pretty blah about the things I have been making. Currently I have a sweater & two caplets going that are knit. I have been so bored with doing the same stitch over & over that I was falling asleep while knitting so I decided to whip up a couple small things. I made a swiffer cover out of some cheap scratchy acrylic I picked up in a grab bag of yarn from the thrift store. I need to sew some buttons on it & I will report how well it works. I crocheted it with some pretty huge bobbles for scrubbing. I'm also working on a small shawl while at work just so I could do some different stitches. I really need to start making items I can list on etsy since some of my things are expiring.

In home news chuckles has a new job WOOO HOOO finally. It looks like it may be a good fit & it will be nice to have some extra money coming in. The seamstress job I applied for said they would have a decision by last wed & I waited till monday to see if they would call & nothing. I really REALLY hate calling a company about a job because I sound like a total goob. You would think I didn't talk on the phone all day...... anyways the chick was like actually we have a meeting Friday (tomorrow) with the company we are looking to get this from so we haven't made a decision yet but I will put a note on your resume that you called. I was kinda iffy about the chick because she didn't really talk that much in the interview but she seemed impressed I called. Cross you fingers for me.

We went to see the Bourne Ultimatum last week. I really liked it, then again I liked the first 2. I found myself laughing a lot during it. Not in the jokey kind of way more like the smart-ass kicking the bad guys buts way. It was pretty good I recommend it. Invasion comes out this week & I want to see it. Chuckles isn't a big fan of nicole kidman but I was like come on it's invasion of the body snatchers we HAVE to go see it. I freaking love all the body snatcher movies, the whole your friends are out to get you like zombie movies is great.

Speaking of zombies I am in the zombie swap & I have made a couple cool things, I'm not going to post them until after my partner gets them because I think that's rude to ruin a surprise but everything is looking pretty good. I think this year I may go as a zombie for halloween if we go to the OD. I'm tired of freezing & you never see any women with cool horror costumes on, they are all to worried about looking like a hoochie.

secret swap

2007-08-10T22:11:00.001-07:00

I have received 2 great packages from my secret craftster swap. Chiquita & Dylan both received little sweaters. I am seriously impressed with how fast my partner can knit. I'm also surprised dylan liked his outfit & didn't try to take it off. we have been trying to find something for him to wear when its really bad out in the winter. I am so happy about what I have received. Its nice to get some cool items since my last 2 packages have been lost .

Ebay items

2007-08-08T19:35:00.000-07:00

I listed some items on ebay for chuckles if anyone is interested. 3 World of Warcraft books & some gevalia coffee.

http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZkittenoh

Interview

2007-08-02T20:46:00.000-07:00

Well I had my interview today for the seamstress position. It went really well I thought, the easiest interview I have ever went to I wasn't nervous at all. The guy doing the interview said more than I did I think. They have great benefits & pay well over what my min would be & it looks pretty easy. The guy said my experience in customer service was a big plus on my resume because if they were short staffed he could use me in the front office & he also said I really like you, you are easy to talk to YAY! Then he was talking about the business & he was saying how much he hates corporate america & how they treat their employees & I was thinking in my head OH MY GOD I TOTALLY AGREE....but I was cool & said yes I feel the same way. and to top it off they have a dog in their office. I LOVE a company that has a dog it is so progressive. I really hope I get it.

I'm currently working on the anthropologie inspired caplet from this pattern http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=62184.0 using size 13 needles. I'm making it out of this really outrageous recycled yarn. It is a thick & thin that is fushia, light pink & white with a small strand of gold. I got it to make baby items out of but everyone I know is having a boy. I may not keep it I may just sell it but I wanted to see if I could do it.

mom's b-day

2007-07-31T19:05:00.001-07:00

So today was spent with my mom. If you don't know me in person lets just say my mother & I have a weird relationship. She fell about 3-4yrs ago (the night chuckles & I met for the first time actually) and fell into a coma from the pressure of the blood on her brain which left partial paralysis, which is way better now you would think she was just drunk if you saw her walking. We found out later she had a stroke & that was what caused her fall....so needless to say she is a little loopy. Yes I can say that & it's not mean it's my mother she is aware of how she is, to a fault sometimes. So anyways I was expecting this to be another stressful day. The last time chuckles & I took her anywhere she flipped out on me for no reason in the middle of the grocery store & turned all linda blair. I was like umm ok I think it's time to go now. Chuckles was like you two have some serious issues she never flips out on me like that. But to my surprise it was actually enjoyable. Granted I felt like a big pig at dinner because I was the only one who ate their full meal, mom with her no appetite & chuckles with the jacked up teeth/lip but all went well. It's so weird to be happy about a normal day with my mother. I wish more people would appreciate how great of a relationship they have with their mom just by it being normal.

In crafty news we went to the thrift store & I picked up a sweater for .99, its acrylic but it was really soft & had great colors so I will use it. I also got 5 cheesie romance novels. Then I made chuckles go to joanns with me like 15mins before they close because I saw a cute little knit jacket pattern I think I could do & didn't have the needle size for it. I also picked up a skein of SWS which I have been dying to try but they have been out of the last couple times I have been there. I only got one to see if I like the feel of it when I work with it before I shell out any money we really don't have right now.

Post dentist

2007-07-30T22:59:00.000-07:00

So today was the big dental day for chuckles...... poor thing. I got a couple of rows completed in the waiting room, it would have been more but some annoying lady started chatting me up about some guy she talks to online (you've got mail was playing in the waiting room). What prompts people to start talking to you when you are obviously into your own thing knitting not giving them any acknowledgement. I could tell as soon as she came in she was a talker she kept making little sounds thru the movie & I said to myself oh great I KNOW she will talk to me....why do strange people feel this insatiable need to talk to me all the time. I never get the cool people talking to me the ones who look interesting or like they can carry on a meaningful conversation, no I get the crazies (oh the late night wal-mart stories I could tell you about crazy people) or the neurotic speedy soccer mom types. I know I look normal you would think I was an average middle-class hetero plain fat chick ohhhh how opposite I am. Sometimes I want to break out in a really loud conversation about fetish & play piercing & gay boy porn just to freak out the conservative (and I have before) but I just don't get what prompts people to talk to me. Don't get me wrong I'm not mean & I like talking to people I will chat people up in the store sometimes but only ones who I know want to talk, it was obvious I was in the knitting zone not looking at anyone & of course I'm talked to. It's like when you go to a bar & get hit on by a dude you have no interest in.....I want to say umm ok what exactly prompted you to ask me to dance I didn't smile at you hell I didn't even look at you, it's obvious I'm not interested in dancing otherwise I would be dancing. But do I get asked to dance at my type of bar......nope oiy

While I'm venting did I ever tell the story about the time I was hit on by an aryan nation "minister". Oh yes you read that right. I know my close friends who haven't heard this story are cracking up already, it get more amusing. Not only was he a so called "minister" he literally came up to my boobs & had bad teeth *shudder*. He had told everyone in the factory I was working at that he liked me before he had the nerve to ask me out, it was a huge joke & one of the other anti-prejudice guys I work with joked "what? you would make a great all white child bearing aryan woman with those hips & your blonde hair & green eyes" he knew I was a bottle blonde at the time and wore colored contacts & a good chunk of my ancestry is native american. Needless to say when he worked up the nerve I said NO before he made it within 10feet of me & he was like but uhh & I said nope I know not interested. Everyone around had a hard time not laughing.

Anyways back to chuckles the poor boi ran into the suv while getting out of the wheelchair. Then the poor thing started lip biting & now has a huge gash & I mean HUGE under the front lip because of the novocain. It is causing more pain than the pulled teeth & causing a fat lip. And I'm not even getting into the crying for mo reason I've been saying in my head most of the day awww poor thing.

In better news I get a call today about the seamstress position I applied for. It's kinda far but it's close to my dads house so if I get it & I have bad weather issues I can crash at his house. But I will probably fudge up this interview, I don't know why I don't get offers I think I do well but we'll see.

Oh & I received a great small item package from my secret craftster swap.....a sweater for chiquita! How cool is that. I can't wait for the other items if this is my small item. It was uber cute

2007-07-29T19:30:00.000-07:00

I've been working on the cutest thing today for my swap partner that I almost want to keep it for myself. I hope I have enough ____ to make another. It's for my secret craftster swap so I can't even take pictures of it for like another month.

I played hooked from work today, whoda thunk it skipping work at place you hate sometimes I wish our contract wouldn't' be renewed in 08 so I would be forced to get a job somewhere else...not that it would be any better.

Tomorrow is the big dentist day for chuckles so I will probably get another inch completed on my sweater in the waiting room. Its about twice the size of the last pic. It should be a fun week..... chuckles doesn't take pain well so it should be like having a bear with a burr in its ass living on the couch all stoned. Oh & my moms birthday is this week...fun *blah* Maybe I can slip out to the thrift store down the street & get a couple sweaters to recycle to take my frustration out on.

I'm thinking of making some knitting needles & listing them on etsy after I'm done with my swaps. I'm really going to get into the zombie one I've already been looking up patterns for gorey things. I would really like to make a shawl pin, the ones that are basically a circle with a stick thru them for this winter. I made a mini shawl the other night at work because I was so bored of knitting I was falling asleep. It's way easier to crochet in between calls because its kinda brainless than it is to knit & remember where to increase. I'll post pics later is just basic grey in caron simply soft (it was going to be the stripe on my sweater) it's very plain but I'm thinking of doing a cool fringe. I'm going for the charleze sweet novemeber shawl look she wears thru most of the movie.

Latest swaps

2007-07-25T21:43:00.000-07:00

These are the items I have sent in my latest swaps. My partners on the dishcloth swap have received & my partner for the knit crochet goodie bag should receive any day now if she hasn't already. Here is what I sent for the knit/crochet goodie bag swap.

My partner is a beginner crochet so I decided to set her up with some basics. She only had 2 hooks so I sent her:

-3 hooks

-a hook holder made from an old book, similar to a book purse but I sewed the lining & outer fabric together as well as glued it because of the strain you put on the lining when using the elastic. It also has a large pocket

-2 bags of gluten free pasta for her son it was hard to get where she lives

-a yarn ball holder so you can walk & crochet

-2 stamps

-3 pages of stitch patterns (front & back)

-a pencil case which I thought would be good for hooks & makers yada yada

-some hook grip covers. I love these for my metal hooks

-and a copy of crochet for beginners & the bag it all came in

My other swap was a dishcloth swap & I had 2 partners one who wanted purples & the other who liked red & black so I sent:

Holy cucumber batman

2007-07-23T18:16:00.000-07:00

So I haven't been checking my garden much this summer because we were invaded by bunnies & I didn't think much would survive. They pretty much killed all my broccoli & cauliflower plants except 1. Welllllll I went to check on the peppers & cucumber tonight when I let the dogs out & happened to glance under a big leaf holy crap! Check these out, yes that is a 20oz bottle for size comparison.

I finally took some pictures while I had the camera out. This is my second attempt at a knit hat. Basically the same style I made as before but in the correct size this time. It's made from recycled yarn that looks like a handspun but is an acrylic, I love it & will probably wear it a lot this winter.

I also have a picture of my progress on the top down raglan. I'm making it in a 3x size probably solid black with 3/4 length sleeves. I'm pretty slow at knitting this is probably 15+hrs of work.

2007-07-22T18:24:00.000-07:00

If you read my blog you know I have picked up knitting again after 20+ years. We I decided to jump in head first & I'm knitting a sweater from this http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=152316.0 pattern on craftster of a design your own top down raglan. Can I just say again how freakin long knitting takes OH MY GOD. It took almost the whole time of watching Starship Troopers to finish the neck. I watch Knitty Gritty so I would say I am at a medium pace geezy peez I've only gotten 3in done. well at least I started early for winter. I'm making it out of caron simply soft......I try every experiment with cheap yarn so I won't get mad if I have to scrap it in black. I think I want to make it solid black I think it will look great with my knee high leather boots this winter. I say a cute black with a little shimmer yarn the other night while at wal-mart, I may do a couple rows of it to keep me from nodding off while I knit.

And speaking of Wal-Mart chuckles & I decided to cruise by Barnes & nobles friday after I got off work at midnight to see if it was crazy. Not too bad a bunch of zitty teenagers dressed up, people actually couldn't wait they were standing outside reading. I think its amazing that someone has captured kids so much that there is a group that will wait outside for a book instead of a video game system...I love it. I wish more kids would get into reading as much.

I received my copy of I Am Legend last week & sat & read it & the other stories up to mad house ( I think). Not bad you can def tell it was written in the 50's but it's not too dated just a little tame on the violence & gore. I never knew his story Dance of the Dead was the inspiration for the masters of horror episode until I started to read it & I was like wait a minute this sounds familiar.

Chuckles & I rented some movies last night. We were both in a horror movies so we got 2 of the 8 movies in the horror fest, don't rent them they are BORING. I got one called the breed with angela rodrigues *drool* in it which will be worth it just cause she is in it & the new hitcher which I already saw the first but it wasn't my choice. I swear I will post some project pictures soon I have been playing mamma bear to chuckles because the toothache.

I have finished a knitted hat & a bunch of swap items & I'm going to get sewing for the latest one I entered a secret craftster swap, I've never done one before so it should be fun. There is suppose to be a zombie swap starting soon & chuckles was like you got to join it! Duh

Oh damn its 9:59 I'm outa work WOO HOO!!!!

New items on my shop

2007-07-21T09:14:00.000-07:00

I listed 2 knit patterns on my shop that are tree patterns. Very cool check them out.

Score!!

2007-07-14T20:51:00.000-07:00

So chuckles & I decided to hit some garage sales today. Yes I know all the good stuff is usually gone by friday but we were bored. I can't believe all the pure crap people try to sell. We actually skipped a lot & were headed to the thrift store when I had chuckles turn around to check out one we passed. I got a huggies wipes box full of clay molds...mostly faces & flowers for $2. Then we decided (we being me) to go to the thrift store. I found 3 good craft magazines. 1 of knit stitches which I may split up & sell on etsy. a crochet one to make cozies for casserole dishes which I have been practicing & one of various crafts that had a cute crochet afghan pattern. I also got 2 flat sheets one to make a skirt of & another to make the cozies out of, 2 gifts in a jar books still with tags, a cheesie romance novel and the best thing a sewing basket with a dowel for thread that is too cute that had its original tag of $26 on it, all of this for $12. Not bad. I need to take some pics to show the things I have been working on.

New item listed

2007-07-13T16:14:00.000-07:00

This is the newest item I listed on my etsy shop. If you have read my blog before you have seen these. My original patter for a yarn ball holder. Its so you can walk & knit/crochet.
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6443267

check it out, I do custom orders on this item also

2007-07-11T19:54:00.000-07:00

I listed a new circular needle & DPN case on etsy today I hope it does as well as the other I was really surprised at how fast the first one sold.

Today Chuckles my father & I changed the brake pads & front rotors on chuckles Rendezvous. Not bad for 2 fatties & an old fart only took us 4hrs. We decided to hit 1/2 price books after we left my dads & I got a copy of Year Zero, it looked ok. Chuckles also found 2 copies of Foxfire #3&5. If you don't know about foxfire I recommend checking them out if you are into natural homemade basic living. It's a series of books that started out as a magazine about how people live in the Appalachian mountains. The cover everything from mid-wives, tanning hides, canning food yada yada.

For my swap partner

2007-07-11T01:13:00.000-07:00

Things about me....

My sizes:
clothing-3X
shoes-10
hats-XL
ring-7
height-5'11"
weight-260(dropping about 1-2lbs a week)
ankles-9-9.5in
wrists/hands-small(It's weird but I'm a amazon with tiny hands)
pierced ears (3 on each ear actually)
14g barbell in my tongue
18g ring in my nipple

Clothes I like:
Skirts, especially long peasant style tiered skirts
flip-flops. I don't wear socks in the summer & part of the fall
scarves
shawls/wraps
fetish wear mmmmm
corsets
knit hats (it's hard to find one that fits so I wear the few I have a lot)
hippy dresses

My style:
I dress like a combo of a hippy & preppy
I LOVE Old Navy....well because its cheap & everything is basic
I love wearing a wild print & a solid together with funk jewelry
I buy things more on texture than looks but I do try to stay current
Fall/winter is my favorite time for clothing you can layer & all the yummy sweaters start coming into season. I'm very much a sucker for something I can pet
I love body glitter
painting my toenails (my fingernails are horribly short)

Sense of humor:
I have a VERY dry sense of humor. sometimes people think I'm serious
I'm very sarcastic
I love freaking people out & making them think
I don't believe in making fun of other people but will make fun of myself a LOT....but I am kinda snarky & say "what was she thinking when she decided to wear that today" quite often

The house/family:
I'm in a committed relationship
I'm queer but not heterophobic (meaning I love men just don't want one)
No kids yet, but definitely want them
2 dogs a weenie & chihuahua
1 cat
I own my house its 110yrs old
My style is Pottery Barn on an Ikea budget
I love natural wood, maroon, paisley, things with texture in my house

Things I like:
sea turtles
celtic knots
owls
trees
large handbags
Ikea
vintage buttons
60s-70s fabric
recycled items
books (trash romance novels, horror, dean koontz, DIY)
fingerless gloves
long wrist warmers
shells especially abalone style
baked goods smells
real sunflowers
rainbow anything
socks with toes
stretchy toe rings, I have weird shaped toes so can't wear the metal ones
paisley
mermaids
zombies
pin-ups
ankle bracelets
tea hot or cold
iced coffee drinks

Things I would love to get:
Bags. Especially project bags. I like them to have a really big body with 2 short straps
Quilts. Yeah I know that's a big one
Wall hangings. Think maroons & browns in lush fabrics with a little bit of India style embroidery
Hats. I have a big mellon
fingerless gloves
chunky bead necklace
vintage fabric. Oranges & browns, 70's butterflies
handspun yarn
sarcastic t-shirts
handmade paper
tarts (the melty type not the food)
crochet patterns
plus size sewing patterns

Things I DON'T like:
things made from duct tape
sequins
rhinestones
floral smells especially lotions
clutch style purses(the ones that look like envelopes)
messenger bags
the smell of smoke
cell phone cozies
amagriwhatevers, it's a crocheted suffed animal for petes sake
stuffies
I like things to have a use, no knicknacks

Politics & beliefs:
I don't have a set religion. The closest I would compare my beliefs to would be a mix of Pagan, wiccan, goddesss worship, greek/roman gods, nature worship & a little bit of Buddhist mixed in. Basically be nice to everyone treat them as you would be treated & if there is a god/goddess he/she shouldn't be feared they would be all loving.
I'm not part of any political party.
I'm pro-choice for everyone else & pro-life for myself (I couldn't do it but who am I to tell others what to do)
I hate prejudice of any kind
I'm very fat positive & hate "style" magazines & I think they should only show real women not skeletons
I don't believe in censorship. I think every "shock" moment is an opportunity to educate your child.
I believe in over educating teens about sex, lack of education is the main reason AIDS is still around
I think the state of the world is also because of people being uneducated. There would be no war if people could talk out their differences...but again I'm a realist about it.

Crafts I want to learn:
spinning
glass blowing
soap making from scratch
hairpin crochet-learned but need patterns
wheel thrown pottery
welding
large loom weaving
carving wood on a lathe
pyrogrophy (woodburning)
dying with natural items
furniture making
applique quilting
tattooing

What I would love to do in life:
Live in the boonies or on a farm away from most people.
Become totally self sufficient, solar power, organic grown veggies, sheep to raise & sheer for fiber, growing fruit for baby food yada yada
homeschooling my kid(s)
I'm a little bit of a paranoid survivalist & I want to be able to not have to depend on others
Be self-employed or doing a job I love so I can spend time with my family & be able to putter around in a craft shed

I will update as I find other things

Rainy day

2007-07-11T00:36:00.000-07:00

I haven't taken any pics of the crafty items I've made lately but I did get some cool pics of the rain today. I was a torrential downpour for all of 30mins & they were testing the tornado warnings today during it......how stupid is that, sure lets test the tornado warning sirens while it looks like there may actually be one we won't freak anyone out nahh. Now I'm curious to know how many dumbasses actually hit the basement when they heard it.

I have completed a knit hat out of some thick/thin that I recycled from a sweater that looks like a handspun but is really an acrylic. I'm in a morbid mood so to me the colors look like brain matter. It has blood red, grey, yellow I will post a pic later its been an eventful couple days.

2007-07-08T13:33:00.000-07:00

I listed a case made specifically to hold your circular needles & DPS on my etsy shop if anyone is interested. I will load an image when blogger stops giving me attitude.

UPDATE: Ok so I listed this item Sunday afternoon & it sold on Monday. How freaking cool is that!!! I made another to see if it was just a fluke or if more people will like them.