Bags with Chains

I'm revisiting an old pattern of mine, Bags with Chains. I've always loved Channel's handbags with chains and I had some extra dog chains, which I wore as necklaces back in the day (heavy metal daze that is.)

Anyhow, now a more respectable way to use my old dog chains and use up some scrap yarn. I'm working on a new bag with black cables and a silver dog chain. The black yarn does not show cables well but I love how it's turning out. Also crocheting one with cream cables but the chain doesn't go so well. My other option is black leather straps with the cream yarn, looks cool so far.

The bags above: the obvious black fun fur bag is cute but outdated, fun fur is so 80's. The 2nd is gray plaid using surface crochet technique, I like but could do better. Both have zippers and are lined.

You can never have too many bags!

Seagrass Cowgirl Hat Pattern

1 coil of Baby Seagrass 000 - SG200B will make a couple hats - order from
Atkinson's Country House http://www.sandyatkinson.com/index.html
2775 Riniel Road
Lennon, MI 48449
Local (Flint Area): 810-621-4947
Fax: 810-621-3058 / To Order: 800-832-3071

Abbreviations:
ch = chain
sc = single crochet
sl st = slip stitch
nx st = next stitch
inc = working 2 sts in same st

Tip: Placing the coil of seagrass fiber in a basket or other container before you begin will help keep the coil contained. Note: The beginning chain is the center top of the hat, and you work around the beginning center chain with increases in each end. The oval created is the top of the hat. The entire hat is worked in back loops only, from top to sides, then brim.

Round 1 – for beginning chain, loosely ch 13, start in 2^nd ch from hook, sc each st to end of ch, then sc in back loop only on other side of the beginning chain, to end of row, now inc by adding 2 sc in your 1^st st, then sc in back loops only, on the other side of beg ch, at end of this row inc by working 2 sc in last ch, sl st to close round, ch 1 for turning ch.

Round 2 – sc each st, back loops only to end of row, inc with 2 sc at end of row, then sc each st back loops only, and inc with 2 sc at other end of oval, sl st to close round, ch 1. (26 total sts)

Round 3 – repeat Round 2. (28 total sts)

Round 4- repeat Round 2 but now inc 2 times at end of oval. (32 total sts)
(Top of hat measures approx. 7” x 3” inches)

Rounds 5 to 11 – sc each st, remember back loops only, do not inc on sides anymore and omit turning chain, now you are working around and around to end (this makes it hard to count your sts and rows BUT you have no seam (36 total sts) (Sides of hat measures approx. 4” in length)

Round 12 – [1 sc, inc 1] back loops only, repeat to end (54 total sts)

Round 13 – sc each st, no increasing this round, back loops only (54 total sts)

Round 14 – [3 sc, inc 1] back loops only, repeat to end (64 total sts)

Rounds 15 to 17– sc each st, no increasing, back loops only (72 total sts)
(if you want your brim even wider, add another row of sc back loops only here)
Fasten off and weave in end.

3 Kittens Karabella Kruise

The 3 K Kruise sponsored by 3 Kittens Needle Arts was a fantastic success! The staff at 3 Kittens went all out, from the decorations, the cute sailor hats, goodie bags, door prizes (which I won 1 of them, a Henna tatoos by JJ. Norma) cool vendors, and cute little Karabella yarn samples. I had samples of Aurora 4 which is 100% extrafine Merino wool. Another sample of Boise, which is 50% cashmere/50% superfine Merino wool. Then SuperYak, 50% yak/50% merino. The yarn samples were enough to knit/crochet up a swatch and get a good idea about the yarn texture. All 3 of the yarns I sampled were heaven to work with, I love Karabella yarn!

Berta Karapetyan

The cruise featured Berta Karapetyan, who founded Karabella Yarns in 1993. Berta is in New York City with clientele that includes Donna Karan, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Anna Sui, Banana Republic, and Gap. WOW!

Berta’s book Runway Knits has beautiful designs, several featured in the fashion show today. All stunning, high end fashion designs, I can see why Berta has gained the fantastic reputation she has.

The boat launched from Lilydale Yacht Club

Cis (one of the 3K owners) - Master of Ceremonies
Wearing a adorable top she knit with Karabella yarn!

Julie (one of the 3K owners)
Modeling a beautiful creation with Karabella yarn!

Tiffany and Janine - sailor hats and theme songs!

Tiffany and Janine had smiles all day, they made the cruise a big hit with their fun personalities, they treated everyone equal (crocheters and knitters alike!) and they did special yarn orders via Shawn (who stayed back at the shop, bless his hard working dear heart!) They even kept the shop open an extra hour to make sure all guests had their yarn!

Velia and Mary Jean
I made so many new friends!

Sheryl Lange Knitchique.

I also met Sheryl, she is a knit designer for 3 Kittens. Here she is modeling her Kaleidoscope Bag which is available through 3 Kittens web site. The color on this bag is amazing, it is felted and there is also a matching mini bag pattern. Very Cool!

Me and Steven

Always a treat to run into The Glitter Knitter Steven Berg owner of The Yarn Garage. He always has on the most smashing fashion of his own creation, he truly is the rock star of the yarn world! I'm wearing the latest version of the Wrap Tank Top, my exclusive crochet design for 3 Kittens.

A view from inside the boat

End of the fashion show

The end of the fantastic fashion show, a very proud team who pulled off a very elegant display of Berta's work. Cis was a natural at hosting, I think she's done this before!
Lets hope she does it again!

The Husband and The Harley

This was a "no kids weekend." It was all about The Husband, the Harley and the Lake. We rode the Harley to Duluth. Our destination was Lutsen Resort. This is one of our favorite spots; excellent food, bonfires on the beach at night, rock hunting (I love rocks) and a fantastic view of Lake Superior.

Scott and me on the North Shore of Lake Superior

We headed up further north to Grand Marais and had lunch at the Gunflint Tavern, walked around the bay, a little more rock hunting and sightseeing. Then a highlight (for me, not Scott) a stop at Raven’s Beak Yarn Shop. The owner Linda Bauer is a very talented designer, judging by the designs in her shop. She mentioned she had more designs, hoped to possibly expand on their availability. If you ever get to Grand Marais, stop by Raven’s Beak Yarn Shop, Linda is there 6 days a week. She’ll talk with you like you’re a long lost friend, she is very sweet.

Me outside Raven's Beak Yarn Shop in Grand Marais, Minnesota

Then we went up further north to Grand Portage, where we tried to get into Canada, but Canada has a helmet law for motorcycles and we did not have our helmets, so we only made it to the boarder patrol, they send us back. Oh well, it was worth the drive. We made our way back down Hwy 61 along Lake Superior. It is a beautiful drive, a great weekend with my husband, the Harley, and no kids.

The breathtaking view at Grand Portage, Minnesota

I missed my kids something awful, now I’m back home, back to laundry, dishes, cleaning, and making PB & J’s. I've had crochet withdrawl! You can't bring much on a Harley, so no crocheting for me this weekend, it was tough but worth it!

How did 42 sneak up so fast?

Well today I turn 42. I KNOW! Not a day over 41. I don’t feel 42, more like 29. Yep, I constantly feel either like “a 12 year old” or 29. Those two ages have stuck. When I’m acting immature, I’m 12, when I feel grown up, I’m 29.

But how on earth did 42 sneak up on me so fast? I’m lucky to have 2 young boys, ages 4 and 6 and that keeps me young. Today we are going to a local park for Rocking Rusty’s Jamboree, a free picnic at the Nicollet Commons park here in Burnsville. I’ll eat PB & J’s with my boys, run through the water fountains, maybe sing along in the jamboree and be 12 for a few hours. Today is going to be a great day.

Tomorrow, my husband and I are going up north to Lutsen Resort on the beautiful shores of Lake Superior. We are taking the Harley, leaving the kids at my sisters, just me and my ole man, wind in our hair, not a care in the world.

Thanks to all my dear friends, my new on-line friends, my family, and even some anonymous strangers who post once in awhile, thanks for being a part of my life here at the Knotty Generation.

I was searching for pictures when I was 12 and 29, but really wanted to post this picture of me when I was 4, because I love this hair cut!

Episode #247 – 3 of a Kind

The DIY website has pictures and instructions on our 3 of a Kind Bags so I figure it is safe to post my stuff before the show airs tomorrow. FINALLY!!! Episode #247 – 3 of a Kind - June 19^th at 6am Central Time Zone on HGTV. I filmed this back in Aug. 2006, at Screen Door Entertainment in Burbank, California. Before actual filming, back stage you get this big tray and you layout all your “step-outs” of the item you are going to demenstrate, you practice with your producer (who times you with a stop watch to see how fast/slow you are.) No pressure!

Here I am just before going in to shoot episode #247 – 3 of a Kind. Practicing one more time, did I get it down, humm.. check, double check!

This my completed bag for episode #247 – 3 of a Kind. The cables didn’t actually intertwine like a true Celtic cable, I was in a rush and once things got crazy my zigs were zagging and the cables didn’t turn out how I totally wanted them, but I guess OK.

Here is Amie, me, and Drew showing off our finished bags. We all had the same basic pattern (that Amie designed) but we’ve each changed the look totally. Amie’s bag has short handles and a fantastic Hawaiian motif, I used surface crochet to make cables, and Drew used sequins to jazz it up. I have to say, this was really fun to see how each of us developed a unique approach to the basic bag.

I plan to add to this post tomorrow with an update on how the episode went, I'm sure a critique is in order, (as the last episode I thought I was a total geek, I'm not a movie star, I'm just a simple at-home-Mom in Minnesota trying to break into the crochet design business.)

*****addition to post*****
The show aired this morning. I set my alarm for 5:55am got my DVD burner ready and it wouldn't record with the new disks we bought, I quickly grabed another disc. I didn't get the intro taped, oh well. It is really surreal to watch yourself on TV. Here are a few screen graps.

"Do I have anything in my teeth?"

Allison Whitlock is so sweet!
She is quick, clever, and has such a fantastic way of making you feel at ease.

End of the show goodbyes: me, Allison the host, Drew AKA
The Crochet Dude and Amie from NexStitch.

2nd Uncommon Threads episode is coming!

Here is a picture of Amie, me, and Drew holding our blurred bags, we’ve kept this a secret for almost a year! We filmed this back in August 2006. Better late than never!

DUCT #247 – Uncommon Threads – “3 of a Kind” on HGTV June 19^th at 6 am central time zone. I know, 6am, but at least the show isn’t canceled.

Amie, Drew and Pam will drive us wild as they change the same classic handbag into a convertible by embellishing one basic bag. Amie will create a Hawaiian handbag by adding an appliqué flower motif. Pam will utilize a surface crochet technique to create a Celtic cable and Drew will change the look by adding sparkling sequins.

Mary Jane Baby Booties Crochet Pattern

Mary Jane Baby Booties pattern coming soon!

I love these Mary Jane Baby Booties!

The pattern is being tested right now and I will post it very soon! I made these while I was on vacation last week, (more on my vacation below!) Seems everyone has a bit of left over worsted weight and this pattern doesn’t take that much. The dark blue slipper fits a 1 year old, the pink are about 6-9 months and the baby blue ones are for a newborn - 3months. With the slippers pictured above I used the same pattern but different hook sizes.

If you've read my blog before you know I love slippers (being from Minnesota when it gets downright artic cold and having a mom that knits, I know slippers!) BTW, my adult version of Mary Jane Slippers are still in testing, once the warm weather came around they got “the back seat” but the baby slippers seem to be a year-round hit.

Our family vacation was really fun, there is so much to see and do in the Black Hills/Badlands area. We had 5 days camping in Custer State Park on Sylvan Lake, on Needles Hwy. That is a beautiful area, the boys hiked and swam and hiked some more. We got to see Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse, tour Jewel Cave, and hit the mammoth dig in Hot Springs. Then we stayed in a hotel with a pool in Deadwood for a day before we left. I developed an abscessed tooth and was in agony by the 3rd day. I saw a dentist in Deadwood, SD and an x-ray proved I needed a root canal. After a few rainy nights in a leaky tent, an achy tooth, this mommy was super cranky and the hotel was much needed. We ended our trip 2 days early, I got a root canal, and I’m on the mend. Gosh, what an ordeal!!

Here is a picture of us on the “wild life loop” of Custer State Park. Yep, that is a herd of buffalo (or bison) in the back ground and yes, my boys have guns, they’re only toy guns but someone needed to protect us from the wild herd of grazing buffalo.

Tagged by Sylv!

I’ve been tagged by Sylv from http://pelotes.blogspot.com/

Here are the rules: Each person tagged gives 7 random facts about themselves. Those tagged need to write in their blogs the 7 facts, as well as the rules of the game. You need to tag seven others and list their names on your blog. You have to leave those you plan on tagging a note in their comments so they know that they have been tagged and to read your blog.

1. I’m the youngest of 6 kids.
2. I played drums (at least tried to play) in an all female heavy metal band in the 80’s, when I lived in southern California, trying to make it big as a rock star! Hah! It took me 3 years to realize I was a really bad drummer, I sold my drum set and moved back to Minnesota. I haven’t played the drums since.
3. I love chocolate but I don’t like chocolate donuts.
4. I almost died during a surgical procedure and my Mom was the assisting nurse in the operating room, they had to take her out of the room until I recovered.
5. I’m still friends with my grade school friends from my hometown. There are 5 of us that still keep in touch and get together at least once a year. Most of us met in kindergarten.
   
6. I can kick-start a 1965 Panhead Harley, but I couldn’t get it out of 3^rd gear because of the suicide clutch, so I could only go 30 mph or less.
7. I cried on my wedding day, a lot.

Saffron

Here is what became of my Manos yarn, I've named it Saffron,
after the world's most expensive spice.

It has to work with jeans...

...and a skirt.

Manos Del Uruguay Yarn

Today I’m working with this fabulous yarn from Uruguay. Manos del Uruguay handcrafted kettle dyed pure wool is spun from a luxurious blend of Merino and Corriedal wool.
Manufacturer: Manos Del Uruguay
Yardage: 3.5 ounces/138 yards
Content: 100% Pure Wool
http://www.manos.com.uy/Manos05/ingles/portada/portada.htm

I do not have a ball winder, (well, actually I do, his name is Scott and he’s my husband. But I can’t use him very often, cause helping the wife with her yarn isn’t a very manly job, but somewhat of a necessity to keep the Mommy happy, cause we all know if the Mommy is happy the house is happy.) Just a side note.

Anyhow, the color of this yarn is so rich (AND a bonus; the color matches this room in my house!) I am crocheting a summer top with a fitted bodice, an empire waist that goes about hip length. This summer top design is very basic, it’s all over the place, in stores, other crochet patterns, but I wanted to work on increasing with a fan stitch. I’ve worked out the kinks and feel really good about designing and increasing with fan stitches now.

Some days do you feel like acrylic but you really want to be cashmere? Well today I’m feeling like an acrylic blend, tomorrow I’m sure I’ll feel more like cashmere.

No knots in yarn, only the intended ones.

Another Cell Phone Cozy

Teal and Lime Cell Phone Cozy
Yep, another cell phone cozy, this one with beads! Super easy, left over yarn, left over beads, about ½ hour of my time while watching the boys at the park and my phone got a new cozy!

Craft Yarn Council’s website
I made it on the Craft Yarn Council’s website for the Knit Out at the Mall of America in Minnesota, well my hair did. Click on this link knitoutbrochure.html Scroll down to the picture of Lily Chin giving her demo, she’s holding 2 orange swatches, see that mass of brown hair in the lower right corner, that’s me!

This month marks my 2 Year Blogiversary!
2 years and almost 50,000 visits to Knotty Generation! Wow, back on April 20, 2005 my first post was on my 2004 Warm Up America afghan. Back then I had no idea how important this blog would be in my life. My husband coined the term 'Knotty Generation'. As soon as he said it, I knew that was me! I’ve had a few versions of the logo, finally decided on the current on, registered trademark and copywrites to Knotty Generation and forged ahead in my dream of writing a crochet pattern book. Some things in the last 2 years...

• I gained a wealth of knowledge of HTML
• I challenged my creativity and expanded my crochet skills
• I fully developed my design skills and began selling patterns on line
• I was on TV! Uncommon Threads on HGTV (and someday on the DIY network.)
• I was in a magazine! The Spring 2007 issue of Burnsville Magazine.
• I was interviewed by Kate on Bella Online Crochet Site.
• I joined some fantastic on-line groups of like-minded crochet folks who share my insane love of all things crochet!
• I’ve formed some fantastic friendships through the internet, blogging and Crochetville.
• I have a fantastic way to promote my intense commitment to Warm Up America.

Thanks friends for stopping by, may your yarn never tangle.

Stash Bustin Coat is DONE!

I love my new coat!

It was a great way to get ride of some yarn stash! I do wish I would have used my yellow though. I was thinking of a rim of color around the collar and sleeves and after adding it I ripped it out, it was too much and my style is more ‘simple elegant’ than busy with color.

I felt the back was the focus, the front should be minimal.

The front closure is still an issue. I used two huge shawl pins for the pictures above, but I realize this does not completed the look. I'm thinking 2 big red buttons or a toggle. I need to ponder this for a day or so before I make the final decision. Any suggestions friends?!

BellaOnline Interview

I had the wonderful opportunity to be interviewed by Kate Pullen of BellaOnline Crochet site . Check out Kate's site, my interview is here

The love for our craft is great, it shows no boundaries. I've connected with people all over the world because of it, Kate is across the pond, but it feels like she could be right next door.

Thank you Kate!

Happy Pam receives a Jimbo Hook!

I am a proud owner of another fantastic Jimbo Hook! My newest is on the right, it is a size G, bigger grip, super smooth thumb pad and a darker wood. My first Jimbo, on the left, is a size H, lighter wood, rustic look, with littles knots in the wood (which I LOVE!)

Jimbo’s Front Porch is where you’ll find Jim’s handy work. If you’ve never used a wood hook, I urge you to try it, you’ll be amazed! Jimbo is getting pretty well know, he's featured in the latest isue of Belle Amiore magazine. Check out his blog and order or bid on one of his fantastic crochet hooks!

Stash Bustin

I've revised this post from March 7th. I'm working on my Stash Bustin Coat, here are the stats:
Project Started: March 5th
Status: approx. 75% complete as of March 14th
Material: miscellaneous left over worsted weight yarn in various colors
Hook: Size H crochet hook
Stitch: Seed Stitch
Design: Simple Circle Design
Other pertinent info:
1. I wished I had included yellow yarn, I didn’t find my yellow yarn until way into this
project.
2. I love the shape and the collar BUT I’m afraid the collar will fold over and cover the back circle too much.
3. I've never increased constantly with the Seed Stitch so I learned a bit, not sure if I'd
design a garment with this stitch in this technique.
4. I have the perfect antique broach to use as a front closure.
5. This Stash Bustin Coat is for me!

What’s Left?: The collar needs about 5 more inches and I need to complete the left sleeve.

(Post from March 7th)
Left over balls of yarn in a rainbow of colors,
all mixed together just waiting for something to happen.

I'm in the Burnsville Magazine!

(picture is clickable)

I’m thrilled with this feature (albeit very small feature, its ‘press’ none the less!) The spring issue of Burnsville Magazine is out, I’m on page 23, titled “Knotty Creations”. The main article is on Paul Ryan, who’s a fellow Burnsville resident and host of Kitchen Renovations on the DIY Network.

It was such a treat to talk with the editor of the magazine, Amber Bromeland, she is super sweet and made our interview fun. The photo was taken at Zandy’s Yarn Etc. in Burnsville, and the photographer Tate Carlson was such a pro. I’m honored to be include in this magazine, makes me proud to be doing what I’m doing!

I’m smiling ear to ear tonight!

Fluffy Cocoon Coat

I added a silky ribbon, weaved it in and out of the open weave stitch and tied it in front.

I love length, the back is long enough to cover 'me bum' AND with the curve up, it slims. (yah!)

Some days you need something ‘snuggly warm’ but elegant. This coat can be worn with a dress as a evening coat, but it also goes great with jeans. Lately, that is the driving force behind my crochet designs; can I wear it with a dress and can I wear it with jeans?

Life is like that, isn’t it?!
You've got to be able to have that option!

I’m designing like crazy, using tips I learned from Lily Chin (and her fantastic new book, Couture Crochet Workshop) and tips from other top designers. I’m playing with shapes, styles, drape, cling and zing (and a little bling!) I’ve finally fully developed the Knotty Generation Sweater Set Collection (aka Funky Girl Sweater Sets, but that name is alittle corny!!) I’m very proud of these designs! I’ve revamped my book proposal and will focus exclusively on this sweater set collection. I felt that my original book idea was too general, too much like all the other crochet books out there. I’m trying to find my edge and where I can fit in the crochet design industry and clothing design is my passion therefore it will be the center of my world (after my 2 boys and husband of course!)

My design process usually goes something like this:

The Vision
The Sketch
The Swatch
The Schematics
The Description
Refine and Refine

I recently submitted 2 clothing designs (not in my sweater set collection) to a major crochet magazine, I’ll call Major Crochet Magazine #1. This is my first submission to a magazine; I’m hoping I’ll get a start here! I have not heard back yet, my fingers are crossed; both designs are timeless but elegant, a little funky, but not too trendy looking.

We are expecting a major snow storm here in Minnesota and I’ve got in-laws driving up from Iowa via Texas, so I’m going to stock the pantry and fridge, and work on my WIPS;

1. Warm Up America Afghan – Carolyn’s squares need to be put together!
   
2. Stash Busting Coat – my next post is on this super FUN project!
3. Ruffle Teal Shrug - re-doing the end of the sleeves, from ruffle to a wave.

Old friends, new friends, thanks for stopping by the Knotty Generation!

Knit Out and Crochet 2007 - Fashion Show highlights

Here is a highlight of the Knit Out and Crochet 2007 Fashion Show. I had a front row seat at today's show, yesterday I was in the very last row standing, so these pictures turned out better.

I have to say, every piece in this show was fabulous! As you can see the 2^nd portion of the show there were a lot of cream colored pieces. Simply Stunning. I loved each and every piece.