Scrub-a-dub-dub

I've finally finished writing up my new crochet pattern - it's take ages but I'm really happy with it. I used Microsoft Publisher this time which is much easier that word, and I created a pdf so that it is in a fixed format and can be sent by email. As usual, this pattern is for sale in my etsy shop and in my folksy shop.

The pattern is for four different scrubbie patterns, four matching wash cloths and a strap to keep the scrubbies tidy. I've been happily testing the pattern for a while and now have loads of scrubbies in little stacks everywhere.

The great thing about cotton scrubbies is that you don't have to buy stuff that you simply throw away - cotton wool balls are a great example and they're often not even made of cotton anyway!! They can be washed over and over - there's always room in the washing machine for a little scrubbie. I've been using them in the kitchen for ages - I have three or four that I cycle round, so I always have one handy when another one's in the wash. They should last for years too - so they're great for the environment.

The housework has taken a bit of a hit whilst I've been writing up and testing this pattern - so now it's time to catch up with washing and ironing, cleaning and vacuuming.

I have an idea for another crochet pattern already developing in my head, so I'll soon be back to the drawing board.

I'd love to hear your comments - I'll be giving away some freebies soon - so keep watching this space........

Luscious Lemon Cheesecake

I've just finished crocheting this lovely cheesecake. I love creating these - each one ends up different. This would make a great pin cushion or a fab fun gift. It's for sale in my etsy shop and in my folksy shop too. I've recently joined folksy. I think it's a great site. I'm not sure how widely known it is, but there's definitely some gorgeous handiwork on there. Great for UK crafters.

I crocheted the cheesecake as I needed a break from writing up a crochet pattern - I've been working on it for ages - writing it, checking it, changing it, testing it, changing it......... I've been going round in circles with it (pardon the pun!!). BUT, I'm almost there with the pattern, I just need to check it one more time then transpose the English terminology to US, so that the pattern is available in both. I'll be posting a sneak preview soon, so keep looking.....

Short and curly - elegant ruffle scarf

I'm working through the lovely yarns in my stash. This ruffle scarf is crocheted in Rowan RYC - a mix of 64% Extra Fine Merino Wool, 10% Angora, 24% Nylon, 2% Metalic. It's really soft and non-itchy so makes a lovely soft and warm scarf.

It would make a great addition to and evening or daytime outfit, especially if you don't want a bulky scarf covering up your glamorous top.

This scarf is really easy to crochet - here's how:

Use a crochet hook slightly bigger than recommended for the yarn weight - I used a 6mm hook with aran weight yarn. For the short scarf I used 1 x 50g ball, but you will need 2 x 50g for the longer scarf.

Chain 101 for a short scarf or 151 for a longer scarf. Turn.

Working from 2nd. chain from the hook and double crochet (dc) into each chain (100 sts/150 sts). Chain 2, turn.

Two dc into each dc of previous round (200/300 sts). Chain 2, turn.

Two dc into each dc of previous round (400/600 sts). Chain 2, turn.

Two dc into each dc of previous round (800/1200 sts). Fasten off and weave in ends.

Et Voila! Your elegant ruffle scarf is ready to wear. If you need a last minute pressie for someone, you could whip this up in an evening. Good luck, I'd love to hear how you get on!! You can add a comment or email me (through 'My Profile').

P.S. This one's for sale in my etsy shop, for those who can't crochet - I love it, so I'm making myself one too as well as more in different colours.

Turkey Sandwiches with Cranberry jelly

Today I had a turkey sandwich, packed with turkey and cranberry jelly. It was soooo delicious. The reason I'm so happy is that I haven't had a sandwich in years. I have a wheat and gluten intolerance, so this means I can't eat ordinary bread, cakes, biscuits, and most food that comes in tins, jars and packets. I mainly eat meats, vegetables, rice, fruit and some gluten-free specialist products.

You can buy gluten free products, but most gluten free bread is really only edible if you toast it. Even then, many varieties simply crumble into nothing in the toaster, or are so dry that you can barely swallow it. My answer to this has been to not eat bread. I just eat crackers instead. They're slightly more palatable.

However, my very thoughtful hubby bought me a breadmaker for christmas so that I can make my own bread. Yippee.I've been testing various recipes, and bought a packet mix yesterday from Orgran. It turned out great, but not a good as the Orgran photo shows. I added skimmed milk powder, as suggested on the box, for a lighter loaf. I've even managed to sliced it very thinly - I had to be really patient whilst waiting for it to cool. I've eaten 4 slices and it was a dream. I've frozen half of it, so I'll let you know if it tastes as good when defrosted.

The only problem is that it's rather expensive, but definitely worth it. I paid £2.99 from Tesco, but I'm going to shop around and see where it's cheapest. There's a specialist shop in Congleton called 'Just for You', so I think I'll pop in and see the very helpful Val and see whether she can get it any cheaper.

Happy New Year!!

Hope it brings peace and happiness to you all.

Christmas Slippers

I knitted lots of lovely bits and bobs for christmas presents, but one of my favourites were these slipper socks, loosely based on a 1940's vintage pattern. I knitted them for my daughter who loves all things vintage. The green yarn is vintage and I thought the red and cream added that christmassy feel.

I am still working on this pattern. It still needs 'tweaking' on the heels as they are far too square and 'lumpy'. I also need to work out the knitting instructions for all adult sizes. I looked everywhere for a men's slipper sock pattern (size 12) but couldn't find a nice pattern anywhere. So I'll be creating these in XL size for my hubby and daughter's boyfriend.

The pattern and slippers will be for sale in my etsy shop soon, so don't forget to keep looking.

Hope you are all having a lovely christmas, and all the best for 2009!!

Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree.........

I'm so pleased with this cute and colourful tree. It's not knitting, I know, but I thought I'd try something different this week. I found the pattern and the instructions on 'little birds handmade' blog.

Her instructions and simple pattern are downloadable and easy to read. You simply print off the pattern and cut it out. Cut out the two pieces from your felt or fabric and you're ready to sew.

Here are a few extra tips, if you decide to make one yourself:

When sewing on buttons, leave a 2cm gap around the edge of the tree seam and tip of the tree -don't sew any buttons within this gap. The buttons will interfere with the smooth running of your sewing machine. Turn the tree the right side out and sew on the rest of your buttons before stuffing.

Make 3 or 4 (or more) at the same time - complete all steps on each tree before moving on to the next stage of making up. This saves lots of time - it's quicker than making one tree at a time.

Using contrasting christmas coloured thread to sew your buttons on, for that extra christmassy finish.

Reduce the pattern down to 80% for a slightly smaller tree - this way you can cut two tree pieces out of one 9 inch felt square.

If you love my delicious spotted buttons, you can buy them from a fabulous etsy shop called 'Bigfish'. Kirsty is a great seller and sells the most gorgeous buttons and sewing accessories - you'll be addicted to buttons in no time.

Good luck with your project - I'm off now to finish my Christmas Woodland........