The fun thing about simple patterns is that there is a lot you can do to add flair. I like to add a splash of color or maybe pin a flower to something I knit or crochet to make it my own. I recently came across a blog post where blogger Emily added dino spikes…

When I was a child, one of my favorite games to play was “kitchen.” I loved creating food to serve my brother and my dolls, a love that’s translated into a passion for cooking as an adult. For creative crocheters and knitters, making your own toy food for your kids (or maybe even your pets)…

Last month, I was reading Craft’s blog, and I saw this blog post by our friend Becky Stern that included an amazing  aran chair sweater. Whimsical and just generally delightful, I love the idea of a cozy knitted chair! It may not be a project for everyone, but it’s certainly inspiring to see the amazing…

When crocheting or knitting, it can be difficult to select the right sweater size. Here are a few tips to help you make the perfect sweater. 1. Accurately measure yourself. This tutorial from our friends at BurdaStyle shows you how to measure yourself. Remember not to pull too hard on the measure tape, as this…

There are so many great reasons to block your crocheting or knitting. However, a picture is worth a thousand words, so let me show you why you should consider blocking! Here I did a swatch of simple chevron lace in Blue Bonnet Baby Wool. As you can see, there were quite a few problems with…

In the 15 years I have taught knitting, probably the #1 fear (and reason students come for help) is what this week is all about: finishing.  In fact, it is the most unloved part of a project for many knitters and a reason there are many UFOs (unfinished objects) in closets.  I actually love to…

Sock-Ease is one of my favorite yarns for sock knitting because of its durability, but did you know that it’s great for other projects, too? Whether you’re trying this yarn for the first time or are using up your scraps, here are 4 great ways to use Sock-Ease for non-sock projects! Color blending. Try stranding…

I must be getting near the home stretch of the Saturday Morning Hoodie, because I have finally reached the part that that makes it one: the hood. This last week I sewed in the second sleeve, and then I decided to sew the side and sleeve seams together as well. (This just makes the piece a…

Slippers are popular winter projects for both crocheters and knitters. However, the soles of handmade slippers can be, well, slippery. Here are a few ideas for making your slipper soles non-skid. Pre-made soles. Our suede soles are durable and warm. They also add some traction to your slippers. You can also find leather soles or…

This certainly was a good week for me to work on two sleeves that are both identical and symmetrical.  It is that time of the year I find myself at college swimming meets for my daughter, which gives me time to enjoy watching her swim and also work on a great take-along projects–like sleeves to…