Life Changing Decisions.

I have never been one to air dirty laundry in public. I like my private life kept private. The problem is that things happening in my personal life have drastically affected my professional life.

So, without going into too much detail, here is what has been happening over the past few months while I have been extremely quiet.

Just before Christmas, I left my partner of 10 years. I hadn't been happy for a while. My son certainly hadn't. And over the weekend of November 30th/December 1st, things happened which made me evaluate my situation and make the decision to leave.

It wasn't an easy decision to make, in fact it was one of the most difficult decisions I have had to make in a very long time. But needs must and on the Friday of that week I moved into a new house with my son.

I moved in with my partner with a whole heap of belongings but, over time, they had been whittled down and I moved out with very little.

This is when you realise what amazing family and friends you have!

Money, furniture and household items came from all directions and in no time at all, my new house was a cosy home.

Of course, moving that quickly meant no internet but, again, I had loads of offers to go and make use of a variety of WiFi connections. I had to rely on my poor little, overworked netbook but I was able to keep an eye on things. My internet was connected mid December but trying to run a business on the net book proved very difficult.

My other major problem was that I lost all motivation to crochet - not a good thing when that is how you earn an income.

While I was struggling with the curve ball life had thrown at me, my son positively bloomed. As hard as the decision had been, I knew it was the right one.

Life marches on and that was nearly six months ago. Things have changed. I feel better apart from an occasional pang of regret. Not for leaving, I certainly don't regret that, more for not realising what I did a lot sooner. But the past is in the past and that is where it should stay.

The future holds so many possibilities.

And I have so many plans!

This time next year Rodney, we are going to be millionaires............

Two

Number 2 finished! The Numbers are available on the Childrens page of Rainbow Valley The Pansies are available on the Scrapbooking page of Rainbow Valley

Nine

Number 9 finished! The Numbers are available on the Childrens page of Rainbow Valley The Bees are available on the Scrapbooking page of Rainbow Valley Now I know when it is quarter past and quarter to. And it is actually looking like a clock on the wall.

Three

Number 3 finished! The Numbers are available on the Childrens page of Rainbow Valley The Ladybirds are available on the Scrapbooking page of Rainbow Valley

Six

Now I know when is it 6 o'clock. Or half past 12. Or I will do when I get it up on the wall! Decorated with Violets from "Scrapbooking Flowers & Friends" which is available on Rainbow Valley

Twelve

Number 12 completed. The photo is taken on my keyboard to give you some idea of the size. If you are anything like me, you see a measurement and need to get a ruler out to see how big it is. If you are not like me, you will probably want to know that it measures about 12cm tall. Yes, this is going to be a big clock! And the details?

The Numbers are from Alphabet Mobiles - Numbers which are available on the Childrens page of Rainbow Valley

The decoration is from two of my free patterns, Doodling and Mini Flowers which are available on the Scrapbooking page of Rainbow Valley

The "I don't do Minimalist" clock.

We moved.

We need a clock.

And we have a big, plain, boring, bare wall.

So, do we go for a picture and a small clock? Or do we go for a big feature clock? Much discussion followed.

Eventually we decided to go for a big feature clock. But what type? More discussion followed. We finally found one we liked on eBay that was within my price range, ordered it and waited impatiently.

What a shock when it arrived! First of all it wasn't any where near as nice as it had looked in the picture. It was some sort of resin, not metal.

Secondly, it was smashed to pieces and totally unusable.

We had to find another clock. More discussion followed.

Eventually, I had enough of discussion and bought this one.

It is a "Minimalist" style clock. The big hand is about 30cm long. But those who know me, know I don’t do minimalist…………. Watch this space.

Hearts and Stars

Really chuffed to announce that I am inside "Inside Crochet" again! This time it is my "Hearts & Stars Wreath". It is designed with Christmas in mind but is suitable for a few occasions. And it is designed with the beginner in mind as it is created from almost all dc (US-sc) with a few short rows for shaping.

I used a wire wreath ring for support which you can get from your local florist (or on line) and electrical tape to cover the wire to prevent it rusting. Light stuffing and some buttons give it a 3D look. And the bells on the ends of the streamers give it a festive feel.

So go and grab your copy quick! All images © Inside Crochet and used with permission.

Mid Month Guest - Charlotte Stafford

The first of my mid-month guest bloggers!

Charlotte Stafford is a well-educated, enthusiastic freelance writer with a passion for interior design. She is fascinated with combining different materials to create a unique look in the home.

Incorporating crochet into the home

A beloved pastime amongst crafters everywhere, crochet is the perfect way to brighten up your home, injecting colour into tired-looking rooms, or transforming dull furnishings and appliances. Whether you’re moving into a new home, or simply looking to give your current pad a little bit of love, crochet can be the perfect way to add the flash of inspiration you’ve been looking for.

While the most popular crochet patterns include jumpers, blankets, scarves, and shawls, more and more crafters are turning to their hook and yarn to breathe a little life into their homes. In fact, far from being ‘just’ decorative, crochet items are also incredibly practical; think soft furnishings like cushions and pillows, place mats, rugs, lampshades, and even flowerpot covers. The good news is that crochet needn’t be complicated, and patterns can be adapted to suit just about any home; just use your imagination and let the hook lead the way.

Crochet in the home

© Inside Crochet. Used with permission.

There isn’t a room in the house where crochet is off limits. From mats and toilet roll holders in the bathroom, to tea cosies in the kitchen; decorative placemats in the dining room, to cushions, rugs, and lampshades in the living room, inspiration can be found in every corner of your home. Of course, crochet doesn’t have to think big to be effective; if you ever have trouble finding your keys, consider creating a cute keyring, or a special pouch to keep them in. Even photo frames, candles, mugs and flowerpots can be reinvented with a flick of a crochet hook; it’s amazing what a little light work with some yarn can achieve, and in no time you can rediscover items you may have previously disregarded.

Reviving tired furnishings

Everybody has that item of furniture, be it an old corner sofa, armchair or bed, which has seen better days. Rather than spending money on a brand new item, though, consider cheering it up with a brightly coloured throw, brash cushions, or crochet detail. It’s amazing what a little yarn and some nimble fingers can do. Of course, there’s nothing to stop you creating various items for your home and swapping them with the seasons; it’s certainly less time consuming – and more enjoyable – than redecorating regularly.

Crochet items also look fantastic in guest rooms and areas where you regularly entertain visitors. Crochet bedspreads can keep guest beds looking smart and loved, while wall hangings, chair covers and coasters will brighten your everyday furniture without any expense; perfect for those who love to keep their homes fresh and exciting.

Crochet for all occasions

The good news is that, when it comes to crochet, the possibilities are as boundless as your imagination. Consider the charm of crochet Christmas decorations, hanging from the tree for all to admire, spooky Halloween trinkets to scare and amaze, or charming Easter ornaments to brighten a windowsill. Crochet items make fantastic presents for friends and family, with the added charm of being handmade with love. Perhaps you’d like to crochet a soft best friend for a new baby in the family, a memory blanket for a beloved relative, or even create fashionable jewellery that’ll get tongues wagging; simply use your imagination, and anything is possible.

Ally Pally 2013

I had an exhausting day but loved every minute of it. Not so sure today though, aching all over!

Up at 6.00am to pack my lunch, tea and crochet. Because we are back so late, I always take something to eat on the bus on the way home. I can leave it on the bus so it isn't as if I have to carry it around all day.

We arrived rather early for the bus and sat in the van where it was warm and dry waiting for it to turn up. We made good time and got there about 10.15am.

First stop - Tulip. I had to say hello to the friends I made last year. We had a chat then I spoke to Pauline Turner. We chatted a little about James Walters and Sylvia Cosh (my Crochet Heros)and off I toddled to my next stop.

I know the Owner/Designer of the Natural Dye Studio from Ravelry, so really had to pop in and say hello when I found out she was there.

And, my final planned visit before things got too busy, was to the Crochet Chain to see my friend Diana. Some things never change. Just as bouncy and cheerful as ever, even with all that pink! She knows I have a thing about pink so my rude comments about it were just laughed at. We shared forthcoming patterns to be published in Inside Crochet and congratulated each other on our success. It is always fun visiting with Diana.

After that, I went back to the beginning and systematically went up and down the aisles so that I didn'r miss anything out. I was on my feet from 10.15am when we got there to 4.30pm when we left.

Is it any wonder I am aching?

Deck the Halls!

Is it too soon for the "C" word?

Not if you are a crafter! We have to think about it extra early to get everything made in time for Christmas.

And certainly not if you are a Designer!!!! We have to get our seasonal patterns out in time for you Crafters to make them in time for Christmas.

Here is my 2013 Christmas offering - a Holly Wreath.

This Holly wreath is designed with the beginner in mind. It uses all dc (US_sc) with some shaping and short rows.

Materials: DMC Petra size 5 in Green (5500, 5700, 5905) and Red (5321), toy stuffing, red and yellow bells, 25cm (10 inch) florists ring for making wreaths, electrical tape. The thread is used double thickness through out the pattern. Equipment: 2.50mm hook, needle for sewing in ends. Tension:  (UK terms) 24 dc and 30 rows to 10cm using a 2.50mm hook.

The pattern is available on Rainbow Valley.

Crocheted Buttons.

No, not the type you put on your cardigan, this type! I decided that, as I was revamping the web site, I would crochet my buttons for it. Here is the first one. Watch out for more!

Teddy Bears Picnic

The Teddy Bears Picnic pattern is finally finished and on Rainbow Valley.

I had a ball of this yarn sitting on the sofa and it was just shouting at me to become a Teddy Bear. How could I resist? Of course, when I had made one, I had to make more.

The pattern is almost all in dc (US-sc) and aimed at beginners. There is a more difficult round to join the legs and arms but I have included a photo tutorial the first time this is used in the pattern along with a schematic to help explain it.

Materials: Sirdar Simply Recycled DK, 3 x Clay (13), 1 x Camomile (15), 1 x Denim Wash (16), 1 x Fleck (18) 1 x Pollen (19), toy stuffing, black embroidery thread. 3 balls is enough for 4 bears. 1 ball will make 1 large bear or 2 small bears. The other colours are for the clothes and are optional. If you buy all of the other colours you will be able to make an additional set of multicoloured bears.

Equipment: 2.50mm hook, needle for sewing in ends and embroidering features.

Tension: This is not important but you do need to keep your stitches tight so that the stuffing can not be seen.

Remember those Crochet Cables?

Well, what got me started on them was creating a Poncho for Inside Crochet.

I love this poncho and it has been so difficult to keep it a secret. Thankfully, it is now published so I can share!

I had the poncho back in October and have been wearing it. It is so warm and snuggly.

I used Aran Tweed Knitting Wool from Kilcar in Donegal, Ireland. It comes in 200g skeins (Length = 320 m / 350 yards) Lilac-4812. The Poncho uses 8 skeins. You can buy online from COMMODUM art and design. They also sell on eBay, just search for “Donegal yarn”.

It is aran weight and 100% wool. It may seem a bit expensive, the conversion rate (at the time of designing) made it about £10 (GBP) for 200g. But when you consider that the Sirdar Click cost me £3.25 for 50g, it is actually a very reasonable price. It is lovely to work with and gorgeous to wear. The poncho is in Januarys Inside Crochet (issue 37) which was out at the end of December.

And there is a matching Hat and Mitten set on Rainbow Valley. The Hat uses 1 skein and the mittens use 1 skein.

Crochet Cables

I love crochet cables. Actually, I love the whole effect of crocheted aran. I think I am going to be doing a lot more of it very soon.

Yes, it takes up a lot more yarn than regular crochet but it creates a thick and warm fabric - perfect for chilly autumn days. And just as perfect for fresh spring days!

To ease you in gradually, I have two new patterns which are quick and easy to make.

This is the Chunky version. Materials 2 balls Sirdar Click (chunky), 1 for the headband and 1 for the mitts. Equipment 6.00mm hook and a needle for sewing in ends. Tension (UK terms) 9 htr and 7 rows to 8 cm

And this is the Aran version. Materials 1 balls Cygnet Aran. Equipment 4.00mm hook and a needle for sewing in ends. Tension (UK terms) 11 htr and 9 rows to 8 cm

You can find them both on Rainbow Valley

Daisy & Sweetheart Couch Potatoes

These Cushion covers are designed to be fun items for your home.  They use a standard 16inch cushion insert.

Materials:  Cygnet Aran: 4 x Harvest (A), 1 x Coffee (B), 1 x Red (C), and White (D), small amounts of Green and colour of choice for flower, 4 buttons. Equipment:  4.00mm hook and a needle for sewing in ends. Tension:  15 dc and 20 rows to 10 cm Graphs:  Written instructions and graphs are given for each cushion. You can follow which ever you find easiest. Finished Size:  42cm (16 in) wide x 42cm (16in) tall.

Flower Power uses just over 2 balls of Harvest and Sweetheart uses just under 2 balls. 4 balls should be enough to complete both cushions.

As the flower and leaves are made and stitched on separately, you can use any yarn you would like to because size and tension is not important.

The pattern is available on Rainbow Valley

I have been really naughty!

I haven't blogged in what seems like forever!

So, I am going to try to be good, and blog a bit more.

For those of you who don't know, I went to Ally Pally in London to demonstrate those gorgeous Tulip Etimo hooks. I hade a wonderful time. Four whole days at the Knit & Stitch show. Four whole days without cooking, cleaning and washing the dishes. And I got paid for it!

And, as you can see, it wasn't only me who had a good time. Thank you to everybody who came and made weekend very enjoyable! There are more photos on Facebook.

I am please to announce.......

.......That I have finished my Clematis pattern and it is up on Rainbow Valley. And I am even more pleased to announce that it didn't take as long as I thought it would. I am not going to post loads of picture here but if you click on "Clematis" in the labels at the bottom of the post, you can find plenty.

About that Clematis.............

After being featured in Issue 26 of Inside Crochet, I have had lots of requests for the Clematis pattern. So I thought I had better get on and write it. It isn't a quick project as it will include the frame, stems, leaves, fluffy heads, six different flowers and three differnt buds. Well, if you are going to do something, best do it properly.

The original one was quite large and has attracted a lot of interest. The new one I am making for the pattern will be a lot smaller, the bamboo poles are about 40cm long. I have also crocheted the stems rather than luceted them as it is meant to be a crochet pattern.

I have also changed the colour of the leaves. I thought the new colour would look better but until I see them with the flowers, I am not so sure. I am hoping to have the pattern finished and up for sale by the end of the month. In the meantime, I will keep you updated on my progress.

I have been working very hard!

In the summer I had a Crotat article and pattern published in Inside Crochet. I have re-written the article, taking into account feedback from readers and teaching workshops, so that it now includes more detailed instructions and more advanced techniques. But the best news - for all of you - is that all of this hard work on Rainbow Valley.

If you have a go, I would love to see the results. Pop along to my Facebook page and post there.