Call me Crazy

I'd like to thank all those who've commented & emailed me about yesterday's posting. I view my local yarn shops as more than a place of business; to me each one is it's own little community.  I felt similar to the way I do about the news of Knit Together's closing as I did when another local craft store, The Craft Basket, closed a few years ago, and then when Lee's Yarns closed over a year (or so) ago. I just need time to mourn the loss of another great fiber community.  I know I'll bounce back to my perky self in no time.  :)

In looking at the other side of my emotional range we find my "crazy" side all in a fluster.  It's all because my Aunt will be turning 80 years young, and I have been driving myself nuts in figuring out what to give her as a special gift.  Once I settled on a throw for her couch, I knew what stitch I wanted to use, and had the end product instantly pictured in my head.  The problem was in figuring out what fiber to use.

As I was in this quandary, Herrshners decided to email me about a special sale they had; I eyed their Caron Simply Soft Shadows (it's a dream to work up!) but wanted to see the color selections in person.  I knew Joanns has it online, so I thought I'd drive across town and go see -- only they didn't have one single skein in stock!  By the time I returned home, and back to the Herrshners website, they were completely sold out of every skein in every colorway!  Now what do I do?

I was itching to start the project so I decided to start by looking up the stitch online.  Many know it as the "diagonal" stitch, some call it the "crazy" stitch.  Seems fitting, doesn't it?  I found two links.  The first one I looked at was Sandi's over at crochet.about.com.  I then looked at Lauri B's instructions.  After a lot of thought, I decided to go with Lauri's as there will be no tell-tell starting chain when the project is complete because the work is created diagonally.  Now, with the project in mind, and the stitch ready to go, I still hadn't selected my fiber.  Do I have something in my stash that would do?  (Who looks to their stash first?  LOL)

I did.  I found a pretty chenille in a steel-blue color, grabbed my "F" Graydog hook (only available on ebay) and began the project.  Normally I'm not a fan of chenille because it tends to "worm" (meaning the stitches will undo themselves and twist into unsightly projectiles), but I haven't witnessed this chenille misbehaving like that -- yet.  I have about six hours into the project and am (insanely?) guessing I have another 74 to go.  Hey, I'm figuring I will need a Grand-looking border to make it specular, and that will take time to do!  {{grins}}

An 80-hour project for an 80 year young Aunt that is the best!  I think that's quite fitting!  I have until May -- that's plenty of time.    :)

Tags: crochet, crazy stitch, diagonal stitch

I really hate Goodbyes

I hate using the word *hate* -- I think it's too strong, too harsh of a word to use in everyday language in describing things we find displeasing.  There are so many other words in the English dictionary we can use in it's place to more accurately detail those thoughts, but today, this is the word I am choosing to reflect how I am feeling.  I hate goodbyes.

Lets rewind the story and start from the beginning so that perhaps I can express the loss I am feeling today.

In 2003 I met a wonderful lady named Joy; she joined our CGOA Chapter and I thought the world of her.  (I still do!)  A few months later she revealed she was opening her own yarn shop with her husband, John, and inquired if I'd be interested in being their Crochet Teacher.  I was honored! 

She'd email me pictures of the store as they began the construction, and as they neared opening their doors.  In 2003, they did it.  They opened Knit Together, in Stamford, Connecticut.  A few months later I joined them as their Crochet Teacher teaching a variety of classes -- an enjoyment that continued on through the past four years until last week.  That was when they told me of their decision to close the shop; to go out of business.  I was in shock. Go out of business?

This afternoon I decided to stop in the store one last time; I knew they were all busy preparing for the big "inventory must go" sale, but I didn't mentally prepare myself.  What was I thinking? That business would be *normal?*  As I pulled into the parking lot I saw the windows covered with neon-green paper with 2 foot lettering "Going out of Business" -- wow; this is it.  They're really doing it, I thought. 

I walked around to the back entrance and went inside. Right then I knew, instantly, that I wouldn't be able to contain my sadness in the loss of this yarn shop; hooboy.  As I sadly said goodbye to the people I've gotten to know over the past four years, I looked around the store.  I recalled all the good times I've had there with the staff, and with my students -- and I am happy that I have these wonderful memories.  The shouts of joy when a student got a new technique or stitch; the cheers when projects were finished.  Going there every week was like going to visit family; maybe this is why I'm feeling the way I am.  I'm really going to miss the shop, and more so -- the people that gathered there.

So it's official; the store is closing. The big sale starts tomorrow and will continue until the walls are bare.  I doubt I'll go.  I really hate goodbyes, and I don't think I can go through it again.

To Joy, John and the staff: Thank you for four fantastic years.  I do hope our paths cross again.   I wish you all the best!
To my Students:  Thank you for inspiring me with all of your crochet triumphs!  I hope you continue in your passion for crochet, and perhaps to have you in my classes again in the future. 
Tags: knittogether.com, knit together, crochet, teacher, going out of business

Winter/Spring 2007 Crochet Classes: Bethel, CT

After an "extended holiday," I am back at the Bethel yarn shop with new classes, a new day: Tuesdays!, and new class prices!  Class size is limited, so sign-up early to ensure your seat is reserved! 


Store:  A Stitch In Time
Location:  276 Greenwood Avenue, Bethel, CT
Contact: (203) 748-1002




* Dee is a member of the Crochet Guild of America.  Show us your CGOA membership card at time of class sign-up and get $2.00 off of Dee's Classes! 
(Discount does not apply to supplies)

Stitch Social:
Work on your own project while getting help on fixing errors or techniques.
February 6, 13, 27; March 6, 13, 20, 27; April 3, 10, 24
Tuesday mornings: 10 - Noon.  Cost: $15 per session

Absolute Beginner: 
Learn the basics of crochet!  This class concentrates on the slip knot, the chain, the single crochet, counting stitches, and ending off. 
2nd Tuesdays of the Month:  February 13; March 13;  April 10
Time:  12:30 - 2:30pm   Cost: $20 per session, plus supplies

Absolute Beginner, Part II: 
This class is geared towards those that have taken Absolute Beginner, or need a refresher in crochet basics.  Class will concentrate on reading patterns, gauge, and getting you started on that first official project.  Note: participants should already have selected pattern/supplies for their first project prior to start of class.
4th Tuesdays of the Month: February 27; March 27; April 24th
Time:  12:30 - 2:30pm   Cost: $20 per session, plus supplies

Graph Crochet Workshop: 
Ever wonder how images are created within the crocheted fabric?  Then this class is for you!  Learn how to read graphs and properly create color changes for your next masterpiece!  Simple heart graph pattern is supplied for this Workshop.  Note: participants will need 2 contrasting colors of worsted weight yarn for this Workshop.
Tuesday, February 6
Time: 12:30 - 2:30pm    Cost:  $20 per session, plus supplies

Bead Crochet Workshop:
  Adding beads to your crochet work adds an element of elegance.  In this workshop participants will learn how to add beads using two different techniques.  Note: participants will need to bring pony beads, and worsted weight yarn for this Workshop.  A beading needle and instructions will be provided to participants.
Tuesday, March 6
Time: 12:30 - 2:30pm    Cost:  $20 per session, plus supplies

Hairpin Lace Workshop:
With Spring around the corner, what could be better than learning how to crochet a beautiful & fun scarf or wrap to celebrate?!  Hairpin Lace is also known as "Angel Lace" and is perfect for wearing at religious celebrations.  Note: participants will need to have a hairpin "fork," and worsted weight yarn to practice with.  Experienced crocheters may use ribbon fibers.
Tuesday, March 20
Time: 12:30 - 2:30pm    Cost:  $20 per session, plus supplies

Aran Crochet Workshop:
Adding cables to your crochet work is a great way to add texture to your fabric.  Participants will learn how to crochet around posts, with a discussion of substituting the Polish Star technique.  A pattern for a washcloth will be provided to participants.
Tuesday, April 10
Time: 12:30 - 2:30pm    Cost:  $20 per session, plus supplies

Private Instruction:
Need our Certified Crochet Teacher to yourself?  Book exclusive time with Dee!
Tuesdays, February 6, 13, 27; March 6, 13, 20, 27; April 3, 10, 24
Time: 3:00 - 4:00 pm  Cost: $15 per 1/2 hour; $25 for full hour.  Advanced sign-up required.

Tags: crochet, crochet classes, crochet workshops, a stitch in time, bethel, connecticut

When Did YOU Come Out of the Closet?

For years I crocheted, alone.  I didn't even know, not even the slightest hint!, that my best friend from childhood was a closet crocheter too -- not until the day I presented her with a soft mint-green crocheted afghan for her beautiful baby girl born in 1998. That was the day the door to my crocheting in the closet was cracked open.  It would take another three years for me to step through and publicly announce I was a full-fledged crocheter!

Now, here it is 2007, nearly ten years later, from when I first peeked through that closet door crack -- and I'm happy with all that I've accomplished, openly, since that time! Yes, I'm proud that I crochet, and I'm more than willing to march down a public road proclaiming it before the world!

I think there is something about the lure of only needing one tool to create those stitches. Plus there is that rebellious side to crochet that I love: the ability to change directions, dimensions, stitches, fiber, and hooks anywhere during the process that is so, well, liberating!  There's even the ability to break the tradional crochet rules without fear of majorly goofing up my project.  What's not to love about that feature?!?

So, with this in mind, sipping on my coffee this morning, I came across this cute little video clip that I thought was quite funny, titled "Wooly Bullies", and thought you might enjoy it too.  As you watch it, think of when YOU came out of the crocheters' closet ... and maybe share your story with me, and my readers.

Tags: crochet, knit, closet, woolie bullies

"No Charges Were Filed" (Conclusion to Contest)

I'd like to thank everyone for their patience in waiting for the official announcement of who the winners are for the "Milesstones Worth a Hundred Grand " contest that celebrated 100,000 visitors milestone (this number does not include blog feeds or AOL's Alerts), and in celebrating blogging here for a terrific three years.

The delay was caused by a slight change in how the winners were selected...

Mini-Dee wanted to select a winner by number, so did Dee Jr. So they each selected a number and then opted for "up" or "down."

Mini-Dee selected "up" (meaning counting the entries from the bottom up) and the number five. LisazArt is our first winner with this entry:

" ... but the LPD did request Mrs. Stanziano crochet up the entire squad coffee cozies with matching hats. "There's only one thing worse than a cold cup of coffee," the Chief stated, "and that is when you find your partner drinking your coffee because the cups look alike!" Mrs. Stanziano said she'd crochet up the hats to show her appreciation, but it will be the children who would create the cozies -- with the green yarn and the Barbie knitter. The children happily agreed and darted back into the stash for more yarn. A second search for them is currently underway."

Dee Jr. decided on "down" and chose the number six. This means Haleyzim2 won with this entry:

"No charges were filed however, Mrs. Stanziano was required to provide a formal statement as to how she came to be in possession of Susan Bates' headless body. The authorities were then able to obtain a full confession from the Bates company and MiniDee finally received her replacement hook. Mrs. Stanziano was also required to show proper registration for all the Gray dogs found kenneled throughout the stash. The officers were pleased with the working conditions of the dogs and reported that each was in excellent health. In addition, several pair of knitting needles were confiscated and Mrs. Stanziano was advised to steer clear of such tools which "can be dangerous in untrained hands." Mrs. Stanziano's knitting projects were released into the custody of Mini Dee who also promised to make sure Mom keeps knitting to a bare minimum."

The holdup in this announcement was caused by the delay in picking the third winner. Mr. Dee decided he didn't want to pick a number, up or down, but rather judge by the "laugh-o-meter." Since he worked two difficult weeks at work he was too exhausted to immediately set to judging. So a wait was deemed necessary.

This morning (with a little pressure of being poked with crochet hooks) he sat down and read each entry. As he did so I was in the other room listening -- you all had him in stitches! He selected the final winner based upon how much he laughed, and wants you all to know how much he appreciated your comic entries. So, without further ado, our final winner, judged as the funniest entry, is ellgormley:

"No charges were filed, however, the Mother was asked to have an evaluation for "Yarn Acquisition Syndrome" and complete a 12-step program. In addition, the Mother will have to complete 300 hours of community service untangling yarn balls at the local preschools, thus serving children and the crafting community simultaneously. In addition, the Mother will have to volunteer with the Fire Department's "Heavy Rescue" team, teaching them to crochet lassos to be used in future rescues. The children, though unharmed, will be monitored closely for Post-traumatic stress by an Art-Therapist who will utilize yarn projects in their care. Anyone who wishes to aid the children, should send skeins of green yarn to the above address."

I will need the three aforementioned winners to contact me with their mailing addresses so prizes can be awarded.

Thank you everyone for a great contest!

Tags: crochet contest, winners

The Secret is Out: Published Again :)

 This must be a "lucky day" for me ... first a 1.5 hour school delay (due to below zero weather), which means a morning of relaxation with my children.  Then I found many emails of congratulations for my crochet patterns featured in the new book, "Big-Hook Crochet," which was officially released this week.

Thank you, thank you!

I'd like to congratulate all the other designers featured in the book too!!  :)

Tags: crochet, published, big hook crochet

Mini's Butterfly Flutters (Part II)

Last month I discussed the fluttering feeling of butterfly wings when inspiration hits. For me, it's an addictive feeling which is why, no matter how many pattern books I seem to add to my personal library, I mostly venture out with my own patterns/creations. And apparently, this trait  was also passed onto Mini-Dee. She, too, has no problem picking up a hook and letting the fiber, the hook, and her imagination run wild.  

Remember Mr. Dee's request for a CD carrier? I had stated that I had too much on the hook at the time and would need to either put his project on the back burner or to pass it on to Mini-Dee. When I presented the challenge to my daughter, she set right to work and had the entire project completed in time to give it to him as a Christmas gift -- he was thrilled!

She took my Treasure Bag pattern and altered it to come up with this beautiful CD Carrier you see pictured here. She added a long strap so he can wear it over his shoulder (similar to a purse), and added another little strap to securely hold the CD player within the bag while still allowing access to the buttons. Mr. Dee is quite proud (as am I) of her accomplishment, and he wears it around the house quite often. "Works like a charm," he said to her. Of course she's all grins knowing how happy she's made her daddy.

I love to watch her during those moments.  I observe how differently she holds the hook; how she controls her tension; her stitch rhythm; her facial expressions as the stitches are worked off the hook.  And when she catches me watching her she gets a twinkle in her eye and gives me a big smile.  I love those butterfly moments.  :)

Tags: Mini-Dee, crochet, Treasure Bag, butterflies