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.

Knit Out and Crochet 2007 - Feb. 18, 2007

Day 2 – Sunday Feb. 18, 2007

Today was the 2nd day of the Knit Out and Crochet 2007 at the Mall of America. I arrived just in time for Lily Chin’s demo on Creating Drapable Crochet Fabric. I learned so much in her ½ hour demo, I was so inspired it motivated me to buy her book, Couture Crochet Workshop. Lily’s book is worth every penny, I feverishly paged through the book right after her demo, making sure every tip sunk in.

I had to find Steven and get a picture, Steven owns the Yarn Garage www.yarngarage.com and he is incredibly talented and a blast to talk to. Check out his funky cool sweater, with feathers!Steven's Mom - she's a Glitter Knitter!

My next demo was Kathleen Sams from Coats & Clark, she demonstrated the secrets of crochet cables. She was so sweet!

I got a chance to talk to Annie Modesitt, http://www.anniemodesitt.com/

Vickie Howell provided commentary for the Fashion Show, which I will cover in a seperate post. Here Vickie is reporting on the Fastest Crocheter Contest. Lisa Gentry won, Lily Chin came in 2^nd, by 1 or 2 stitches.

My last demo was Margaret Hubert – Free Form Knitting and Crocheting. Margaret has this fantastic freeform cardigan on, this is the back.

Here Margaret Hubert is doing a demo of freeform.

Here is a few of us from the demo/class. Sorry this pic is so blurry:(

To end the day, Lily Chin signed my new book, I made a few new friends, my feet hurt just as bad as yesterday, and I knew it was time to go home. I had so much fun, sharing the love of yarn with knitters and crocheters alike. It was awesome and I hope that the Knit Out and Crochet event comes back to the Mall of America next year!

My next post will have the Knit Out and Crochet 2007 Fashion Show highlights!

Knit Out and Crochet 2007 - Feb. 17, 2007

What an amazing day I just had!! I spend 5 hours at the Mall of America for the huge Knit Out and Crochet 2007, it was so cool to be around so many folks who love yarn.

I arrive at the mall around 1pm for my scheduled meet up with Bea from my Warm Up America Group, then I met YarnCat, aka Catherine Lindsay www.yarncat.com

I met Yarncat in person!

Then we meet up with Christy, from Purling Away http://knit.criosa.com/blog/ and watched the fashion show, very cool, but my pictures are so fuzzy I wont even post them.

There was a special presentation for Save the Children/Warm Up America www.warmupamerica.com with the highlight being able to honor Evie Rosen, the founder of Warm Up America. The highlight of my day involves her later on.

Christy, YarnCat and I sat in with Lily Chin www.lilychinsignaturecollection.com and her presentation on reading crochet charts. Lily was wearing the most beautiful crochet and bead top, her creation of course! She is so spunky, she talks a mile a minute and knows her stuff inside and out. Her bit on symbols was a good refresher for me.

Lily Chin "at the office"

Lily Chin and me - I was so thrilled to meet her!

Fastest Crochet Lisa Gentry www.lisagentry.com made an appearance on the stage; she won, of course, and then gave her award (a bag full of yarn) to a pre-teen girl who was also entered in the contest, very sweet gesture on Lisa’s part.

Lisa Gentry - she's fast!

We wandered around the vendor booths, there was yarn galore, I was in heaven! Sticks and hooks that light up, magazines and free patterns everywhere! I ran into Zandy, who owns Zandy’ Yarn shop in Burnsville www.zandys.com and then met Steven, who owns the Yarn Garage in Rosemount www.yarngarage.com, two of the LYS that I love!

I also got a quick smile from Candi Jensen, www.candijensen.com

Candi Jensen - I love her!

We scored free yarn at the Michael's booth. Then came the "The Highlight of the Day" I got to meet and talk with Evie Rosen, the founder of Warm Up America. She's a humble person, with a simple wish to help folks out. I wish I could be half a person she's been. About 3 years ago, I made a lifetime commitment to volunteer for Warm Up America.

My Hero - Evie Rosen

I also got to meet Vickie Howell www.vickiehowell.com WHEW! 5pm came fast and we said our goodbyes. Yummy yarn stash in hand, a new crochet hook, some huge size 17 knitting needles (errr drum sticks!) and tons of patterns, my bag was full, my feet hurt and I was ready to come home.

BUT I plan to go back Sunday, I missed Annie Modesitt and Brett Bara. I'll post about my yarn adventures tomorrow!

Vickie Howell is too cute!

My goodies from the day - Paton's Divine is yummy!

The Ruffle Shrug

The Ruffle Shrug

The Ruffle Shrug's Spring Outfit - obnoxiously patterned capris optional.

The Ruffle Shrug with jeans and simple black top, this is more my style.

Knotty Generation Totes

I used my new Knotty Generation Tote Bags for groceries today! They are huge totes, hold a ton o’ stuff, they have very sturdy handles and can be ordered on Café Press.

Check out the items I have on Café Press at http://www.cafepress.com/KnottyGeneratio

Knotty Business Cards

My New Knotty Business Cards

Of course, they needed a carrying case! I used some left over Paton’s Merino Wool in Deep Olive, a size G crochet hook, had about a ½ hour of time, a quick cable stitch, and here is my little business card wristlet. (Note my new wicker basket with cloth liner, no more yarn snags on my wicker!)

Me = Happy

Knit-Out & Crochet 2007

Craft Yarn Council Knit-Out 2007 Brochure

Mall of America Events - Knit-Out 2007

I’m so excited for this event, I can hardly stand it!! I live about 10 minutes from the Mall of America. Are there any folks out there going? Please say YES! Seriously, I can hardly stand it!

I would love to meet some of my on-line friends, especially Minnesota crocheters and I’d like to see what the interest level is for forming a CGOA Chapter for the Twin Cities. A few years ago, there was a small group of ladies that met at the Black Bear Crossing in St. Paul on the 1^st Wednesday of the month, but I think that group does not meet anymore. Does anyone know more about a CGOA Chapter in MN? I can’t find a thing.

OK, back to this event, the MOA (Mall of America) is the perfect place, not just because it is close to my house, but it has the amenities; hotels, restaurants, tons o’ space, BUT get this, no yarn shops! I don’t think they sell any yarn at the MOA, so I’m hoping this event might get someone’s gears ticking and a yarn shop opens up there.

I hope to see and meet some of you at the MOA on Feb. 17^th and 18^th. Email me or leave a comment and we can arrange a meeting spot!

The "Back in the Saddle" Show

Well... our first show will air tomorrow! Back in the Saddle - Episode DUCT-#214 on Jan. 19th 10:30am CT on HGTV and the "do it yourself" info. is now posted on DIY's website, HERE so I feel I can safely spill the beans! I’ve been busting at the seams waiting to post pictures and tell you all about what projects I did for Uncommon Threads.

My shipment of seagrass!

Here I am just opened my shipment of seagrass from Atkinson’s Country House (this is Baby Seagrass OOO-SGOOB) I embark on my stepouts for the Seagrass Cowgirl Hat. I develop a deep callous (on top of my permanent callous) shred and fray skin on several fingers, bleed occasionally and develop a greater appreciation for soft yummy yarn.

The Step-Outs

Step-outs allow you to demo your project in a progressive manner, giving the illusion that you are creating it right there on the set, as they film. I don’t think we are really fooling anyone, but it seems to work on TV!

The Seagrass Cowgirl Hat and Matching Bag

I finish the matching bag and feel I've completed it "as I had envisioned it." We originally pitched the cowrie shell band on the hat, but we all agreed that black ribbon/sash looked smashing with the black handle on the matching bag. This is such a smart set, it goes with several colors and has an elegant look (contrary to the “cowgirl” tag.) I did re-attach the handles to the handbag, they looked a little wonky. The hat also got scrunched in-flight, the sides bend a bit. The pictures on DIY website don't look the best, it almost looks green, but the true color of this segrass is coming through in the photos here.

Reflecting

Looking out the window, my son Drew takes this picture in August 2006, I’m finally done with my seagrass hat, the matching bag, I breathe a sigh of relief and now have a few days before I fly to L.A. to shoot the episodes. In this picture I look calm but I begin to get the butterflies as I realize this is really going to happen!

----addition to post-----episode pictures via my TV set----

This is the very begining of the show.

"Side shot"

Talking about seagrass.

Me and Drew watching Allison on her sewing project.

The end of the show, we have alittle show and tell.
Amie shows her SUPER COOL bike seat cover and Amelia, her very sexy summer top, the pattern is available on her website. Drew's funky handbag grabs Allison's attention.
We all have fun "showing and telling!"

Slipper Frenzy

When your tooties are cold, warm them up in some yarn,
but first knot that yarn into something cute!

As you can probably tell, I love slippers! My mom always knit slippers for us kids, we'd wear them out, she'd knit more, every winter, we loved our slippers. Over the years, I’ve made several myself, when I wear them out, I crochet more. Made a few for family and friends. I love the “Mary Jane Slippers” and now I've crocheted a few without the strap for a “Ballerina Slipper”. These are super quick and oh so cute!

The great thing about slippers is they don’t take up too much yarn and not too much time, plus scrap yarn is perfect. For the slippers pictured above, The Black Ballerina Slippers are worsted weight yarn mixed with Bernat Boucle. The Grey Mary Janes are made with 2 strands of Lion Brand Homespun.

I'll post the crochet pattern for the Mary Jane Slippers (plus the Ballerina Slipper option) becasue I've had several requests for the pattern and they are super easy.

Minnesota winters require slippers! Today it is 5 degrees! Burrrr!

Black Mini Duffel

• Caron Simply Soft yarn in black
• size G crochet hook
  
• Mini Duffel Crochet Pattern
  
• 1 hour of crochet time (while watching Knitty Gritty and Uncommon Threads)
  
• cute little vintage pin from my grandmother Beth Tohal
  
• a new favorite
  

2006 - A Year in Review

A cold Minnesota January started the year, we had a nice covering of snow, the boys and I would slide down the nearby snow packed hill, and a small 'snow bump' supplied us with the perfect place to show off our daredevil stunts. Hot coco and marshmallows are a staple in my pantry. This is when crocheting for warmth is so logical: hats, scarves, socks, slippers, mittens, sweaters, wraps, and Hot Java Mits (for my Starbucks) were completed this year, among other projects and a few WIPs (Note to Mom, those are works in progress!)

I have always been intrigued with Celtic knot work, this year started off with a few of my favorite creations, some granny squares with a twist.

Celtic Knot Granny Square

Celtic Cross Granny Square

In February of 2006, I was featured as the Minnesota Blog of the Day on City Pages website, my first piece of “press”, that was pretty cool. In March 2006 I found out one of my crochet designs was accepted by Vickie Howell to be in her upcoming crochet book, Catwalk Crochet. So cool, Vickie is cutting edge, inovative and I'm proud to be (a very tiny) part of her upcoming book.

In 2006, I’ve started to expand my collection of custom carved wood crochet hooks.

My first Jimbo hook

My Brainsbarn hooks

In March of 2006, I offered my Rasta Tam Crochet Pattern and it has been by far the biggest hit generator from Crochet Pattern Central, thanks to Rachel, the site owner.

The Rasta Tam

The Hot Pink Bracelet Purse

The Hot Pink Bracelet Purse is also a big hit, I made more of these than any single crochet item, ever. I have to admit, not all were done in hot pink, I made several little black ones and accented with beads and ribbons.

By far, the highlight of 2006 was flying to Burbank, California in August 2006, meeting up with Amie of NexStitch and The Crochet Dude and shooting 3 episodes of the DIY show Uncommon Threads. This was a dream come true for a begining designer. Allison Whitlock was so kind and made us feel like old friends. The shows will air in 2007.

Amie, me, and Drew
at the Stage Door at Screen Door Entertainment Studios in
Burbank, California

I get the most satisfaction when I crochet for charity. I was really pleased with this year's project for Warm Up America. I went to the VA Hospital in Minneapolis and donated 10 afghans in December, all made with tender loving hands by my WUA group (we meet at the Apple Valley, Minnesota JoAnn's store) Judy, Louise, Bea, Sue G., Sally, Alice, Carolyn, Sue T., and Cuong have all shown devoted and skilled work. I'm very proud to be a part of this group.

My Warm Up America Project for 2006

In 2006 I have been fortunate enough to meet a great group of crochet folks, who share the love of crochet and yarn, and being friends on-line. I have met friends from New York City to California, to Argentina, Japan, Norway, Philippines, and Russia! The fellowship and instant bond of crocheters is passionate, sometimes fanatical and obsessive, but always a healthy form of creativity. We can relate to each other in a way that others cannot. To all who've shared a moment with me, on-line, off-line, in groups, in passing, and any other means, I wish you all peace and happiness in the New Year.

I'd like to leave this final post of 2006 with pictures of my ROAKs. This was a new word for me this year, and Random Acts of Kindness became a worldwide gesture.

From Mimi from the Philippines

From Vik from Bouines Aries, Argentina

From Michelle from Greenville, NC