Czech Crystal Pillow Beads

I think they call this style of bead a "pillow bead". If they don't - they certainly should - as that's what these sparkly little seafoam green Czech crystal beads resemble in shape. I've mixed them here with the lightest of gold seed beads, larger crystal seed beads, and round 'just barely light green' crystal beads.

A New Washcloth Pattern

I have a new favourite wash cloth pattern to make - AND it's crochet - which I find easier than knitting. I know... I know... it's very exciting. You can find the pattern for free at the Lion Brand website. I found that I needed to increase my crochet hook to achieve the proper tension - I used a 5.5 mm vs. the recommended 5.0 - but in trying the 5.0 as suggested, I did note that it would work up ideally for a bath mat - having a little more stiffness.

This simple stitch works up to a very thick wash cloth, and although they are idea for dishes OR your body - I would personally use this as a wash cloth for your face. It's so thick and luxurious. In fact, it's really making me want to make tons of them and interesting soaps to match. I don't currently make soap - but you crafters know how this trend can go.

Keeping me slightly in check is one my new organizational tools. The "bag of things to sew ends in". While I can't fit an afghan or the likes in here, it does provide a little boundary for the number of small items that accumulate that "just need the ends sewing in". At the very least, these projects may end up all hanging out together. It is kind of amazing how they can accumulate. Sigh. Okay, where's the needle? ... here I go.

I'm sure this stitch must have a name, but I don't know it. The basic stitch pattern for the washcloth is this:

With 5.5 mm hook (or 5.0 depending on your tension) - chain 35.

Row 1: Sl st in 2nd ch from hook, hdc in next ch, *sl st in next ch, hdc in next ch; rep from * across – 34 sts at end of this row.
Rows 2-38 (or 40 depending on cotton): Ch 1, turn, sl st in first hdc, hdc in next sl st, *sl st in next hdc, hdc in next sl st; rep from * across.

Alternate the colour pattern however you like - and enjoy.

Kaleidoscope Earrings

I haven't had pierced ears since about 1990, but these earrings are making me wish that I did. These little guys have all my favourite things - the liquid silver seed beads in large and small, the funky little square bead, some interesting crystals, and focal beads that remind me both of my favourite pop socks in the 70's and the windows of Notre Dame Cathedral.

A Bold New (Magical) Journey

Did you notice? There were BIG happenings yesterday. After contemplating for decades doing something a little more organized with my never ending desire to make things of a crafty nature, I have finally ended up "on Etsy".

Turquoise & Gold Necklace Set

Today was an exciting day - boxes arrived. Boxes for storing and shipping jewelry and etc. means the next step in being a little more organized with my crafting side of life.

Stylin' Tote Bag

It has been much ado about beads lately, so I thought I'd better show that I am still progressing through the wool supplies and actually finishing the odd project.

Funky Purple Pendant

Some time ago I found this funky purple pendant that was for sale as a necklace, but just strung on purple and black string. It's not expensive but it appears to be nicely made and looks of good quality. It puts me in mind a little bit of Salvador Dali. (A teeny bit Picasso, but a little tame for Pablo - there's only one nose and two eyes after all.)

Happy Canada Day!

I couldn't resist these oversized glass pearls - the colours are so rich. And as it's Canada Day, time to work up the red ones. My final product ended up quite different than originally planned, but I am happy with it.

Gold Heart Earrings

I got these pretty little gold hearts at the bead shop. Perfect for some cute earrings I thought. I think I have enough hearts for four or five sets, so will have to come up with a few variations - though I am leaning towards keeping them all gold and crystal.