Loom

OK, not crochet as such, but it is a textile craft so related.

I've bought a loom. I've wanted to weave for a long time. It is the only textile craft which I haven't tried. I spin, dye, knit, crochet, feltmake etc, so weaving would definitely be a good skill to learn.

Organic Yarns

My BellaOnline article this week was about organic yarns. I had actually planned this a while back, having written on a similar subject before. It is interesting that this week saw another concern over chemical residues in fabric. This comes on the back of many recent product recalls.

One draw back, as with so many organic products is the price. But then again, is it our continual quest for cheaper and cheaper products that has got us to this situation?

I wonder what the future will bring.

Back to School Crochet

Summer draws to a close and it is time to think about back to school crochet. There is loads of good crochet projects available - and plenty more which can be adapted for back to school use.

For more about back to school crochet projects take a look at my recent article at bellaonline.

Crochet Pattern A Day

There's a call for entries for the 2009 Crochet Pattern a Day calender.

More info here - Crochet pattern a day

2009 - how time flies....

Crochet for Barbie

I've recently written about about crocheting for Barbie at BellaOnline. Amazing how many patterns and projects are available. Crocheting small projects can be so satisfying, and a good opportunity for trying new stitches and techniques.

Oh - and the bracelet is crocheted from crochet cotton and beads. There is a pattern for a Crochet and Knitted Bracelet

Crochet for Barbie

Did you know that Barbie is worth more than 3 billion dollars? Not bad going!

She has been in existence for nearly 50 years, and inspiration for Barbie as we know her came from a German doll. Today Barbie comes in a variety of styles, and she has a great number of adult collectors as well as playing an important part in the life of young girls (and boys?).

There are some great ideas around for crocheting clothes for Barbie - I've written about it at BellaOnline.

If that inspires you to crochet for Barbie - then there is a great book with lots of designs from Nicky Epstein. As you would expect, this is a lovely book with lots to look at and clear instructions.

Adding Crochet Adornments

One thing I particularly like about crochet is its versatility. I was given the Stupid Sock Creatures: Making Quirky, Lovable Figures from Cast-off Socks book for my birthday and have been busy turning old socks into toys. I've been adapting them further by adding hair which I've crocheted onto the finished doll.

I am not certain that Myrtle was very much improved with her new hairstyle, but it does hide a wonky seam!