tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58680587103190089792024-03-18T02:48:15.658-07:00KareWaresLife, crafting, cats.Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.comBlogger191125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-70244253694486320102015-04-09T08:50:00.003-07:002015-04-09T10:07:29.248-07:00The first of many vestsOne of the main projects I've been indulging in over the last 10 months has been crocheting vests. And vests. And more vests. <br />
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It started with a trip to a yarn shop in Seattle on our honeymoon where I bought some wooly yarn on clearance. I didn't know what to do with it, but I decided after a few weeks that I wanted to make a vest. Now, let me say, at this point in time I was not a super proficient crocheter (nor would I argue that now, even). I made stuff, but I'm not a pattern reader and most of my projects involved straight lines or squares. So, this vest thing was a whole new undertaking: CROCHETING IN THE ROUND. <br />
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Some how I figured it out. It wasn't immediate, but I got it. The first attempt took a lot of ripping out stitches and reevaluating why I'd decided to pursue this type of a project. It wasn't perfect when it was done, but I liked it and I felt proud of this new pattern I'd begun to create. <br />
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Since, then, my pattern has evolved and been developed to the point where I can generally produce something I like on the first try. It's faster, although still time-consuming. I've also sold many of my creations, which feels really good. Not for the money, but for the opportunity to have someone else appreciate my work. Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-50445134043256989222015-03-24T13:05:00.002-07:002015-03-24T13:05:18.184-07:00KareWares rebootWell, it's really been a long time since I've blogged on here regularly. It wasn't a conscious or intentional decision on my part, but it just wasn't fitting in with my life for a while. I was busy with grad school, planning our wedding, crocheting, and life in general. <br />
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I noticed that I was getting really hung up on other bloggers' lives as well; what they were doing, how they wrote, how many followers they have, etc. I was also planning my life around my blogs... I took pictures, cooked, dressed, and crafted so I could post. It wasn't the way I wanted things to be, so at some point I just stopped logging on and checking my account. <br />
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Despite that, I feel like I'm ready to come back now. My creativity has shifted and I've been making what I want to make, rather than just creating things so I have something to show. A lot of the time I end up posting pictures of my work on Instagram and Facebook, but I feel like those aren't always the best outlets. So here I am, back in the world of blogging and excited to share what's been happening in my world. <br />
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Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-54803584210145934392014-05-12T11:11:00.001-07:002014-05-12T11:11:42.365-07:00Big news!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We're married!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcanEZ1NkeMIe3P-2cXFUvp5nUfRBn0w8iv7BBN9Um6O7Wf0bdwB7HaVKUqPdD96bdqdFHuhUdJaAY5LrOk1suaV_bDmw4zz0U_hV6AgTb4zXTwsg9sgaOQ3d9ruRH5FT-GqeFGJJlXqg/s640/blogger-image-174955229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcanEZ1NkeMIe3P-2cXFUvp5nUfRBn0w8iv7BBN9Um6O7Wf0bdwB7HaVKUqPdD96bdqdFHuhUdJaAY5LrOk1suaV_bDmw4zz0U_hV6AgTb4zXTwsg9sgaOQ3d9ruRH5FT-GqeFGJJlXqg/s640/blogger-image-174955229.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Now that the crazy year of planning is done, I hope to share more about our day soon!</div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-37868282123700015442014-03-09T19:10:00.002-07:002014-03-09T19:10:58.364-07:00Infinity scoodieA few months ago I had a nice break from classes, and decided to pursue a new craft project- an infinity scoodie. I wanted to make my own pattern and after some trial and error, pulled it off! A friend saw mine and asked for own of her own and it turned out so good. Here are some pictures of the final result of what I made for her:<br />
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Nicole picked some colors that I wouldn't have chosen on my own, and they were so perfect! After I started, I couldn't get over how much I loved them together. The yarn I used is super soft and the whole piece is really comfortable to wear.<br />
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I added some details that weren't on my original, including a cord with tassels to tighten the hood and a satin liner to help give the hood shape and for more warmth. <br />
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The scarf part is really long (it reaches the ground when hanging straight down and loops around 3-4 times. <br />
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I love this scoodie and am looking forward to making more. If you are interested in one of your own, feel free to contact me, either through blogger or my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/KareWares?ref=si_shop">Etsy</a> store. (There isn't much on my Etsy shop right now, but you can send me a message and we can consult on an item.) Thanks!<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-66996475916452848852014-02-28T11:11:00.001-08:002014-02-28T11:14:12.647-08:00One year ago<div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">My posting has been terrible for a while now, including this event that has now happened one year ago (yesterday) that I never actually finished writing about. Last year, on February 27th, we lost our kitty Miles. It was sudden and unexpected, and tough on everyone. We still miss him so much and while our other three kitties are doing fine, we know that he's irreplaceable. We miss you Miles!</span></div>
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Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-32456830029750868112013-10-20T18:00:00.000-07:002013-10-20T18:02:06.066-07:00Wedding Planning 1: Dress Inspiration<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Since we got engaged 6 months ago, I've been looking for the perfect outfit for the big day. I spent a lot of time searching through Pinterest, Etsy, and random Google inquiries, and found some really unique ideas to help inspire me! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here are some of my favorites:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://wai-ching.com/content/zolotova-dress">This dress by Wai Ching</a> stuns me every time I look at it. There are photos submitted by brides with custom colors they chose for their dresses, and every single dress looks amazing! I love the sheer areas and the color layers flowing out underneath. If it was in my budget, I'd definitely go for this dress.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/54254370484633611/">embroidered dress by Aida Coronado</a> on Etsy. I like the simplicity of the design, with the pop of color on the bust. This would be such a great (and comfortable) dress for an earthy bride.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/21089640/daydream-eco-friendly-strapless-long-a?utm_campaign=Share&utm_medium=PageTools&utm_source=Pinterest">this handmade dress by Rai Alexander</a>, also on Etsy. It has stunning appliqué of a forest scene that reminds me of dressed-up patchwork festival dress. I also like the detail of the bride and groom on the bottom of the skirt.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">While I didn't pick any of these dresses for our wedding, I think I found something that captures my personality perfectly, fits my budget, and that I'll feel comfortable and beautiful wearing in May! Can't wait to share more of my wedding ideas soon! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">You can check out my ideas on <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/karewares/wedding-things-to-wear/">my Pinterest wedding board</a>, there are a bunch of ideas I've gone through in the process, including black and white, separate pieces, casual and fancy ideas, and accessories (part of what I'm wearing is posted too, can you guess what it is?) </span><br />
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Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-55559666918165056302013-10-11T06:34:00.000-07:002013-10-20T18:01:35.844-07:00Karen & Mark: 2 years<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I've rarely been posting lately because I've been so busy (school, work, wedding planning, camping, crafting, etc.), but this is a special day to write an entry. Today is the 2-year anniversary of Mark and my first date, basically the start of our relationship. We were nervous, excited, and spent the evening sitting outside a restaurant drinking beer. Mark held my hand, hugged me goodnight, and we've been nearly inseparable ever since. </span></div>
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We've since moved in together, gotten engaged, and are planning for the rest of our lives. I can't imagine my life being any better than it is and I'm so lucky that I met Mark. </span><br />
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Here are some of my favorite pictures of us over the last few years:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Our first photo together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Our first big road trip (in the Black Hills)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Vacationing in Florida with Mark's family</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Camping last fall</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Now we have a fun day planned to celebrate: I booked a hotel in the city (we're far enough in suburbia that it's way more convenient to stay in the city for a night if we want to let loose), so we'll be swimming in the pool, grabbing some yummy dinner, hitting up a few bars, maybe even some dancing! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">(I'm hoping to post some more soon, I have a bunch of recent craft projects, including a Halloween costume idea to share!)</span></div>
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Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-92121234748439904712013-08-22T13:17:00.000-07:002013-08-22T13:17:04.099-07:00Dreamcatcher 2.0<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9xRy9lo0tbz7HLSpiOsG8UEASP24EGoshx8NhitrrwtfEIL9W3_EcYBVhtw9lAIexJJBKmEhno4TS94sJeAVj_sGnKCjLYKIAsLL98B9wuHW3TwvzqTGN-Sgkojb7gFdLOua9oOiBsM/s1600/DSC04723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9xRy9lo0tbz7HLSpiOsG8UEASP24EGoshx8NhitrrwtfEIL9W3_EcYBVhtw9lAIexJJBKmEhno4TS94sJeAVj_sGnKCjLYKIAsLL98B9wuHW3TwvzqTGN-Sgkojb7gFdLOua9oOiBsM/s400/DSC04723.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I just finished another dreamcatcher and this one's up for sale on Etsy! The colors are completely different from the <a href="http://karewares.blogspot.com/2013/07/dreamcatcher-crocheters-interpretation.html">other one</a> I recently made and I really like how it looks. Check out some pictures or <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/160425698/crocheted-yarn-and-hemp-dreamcatcher?ref=shop_home_active">see it on Etsy</a>!<br />
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And also if you're interested, all the headbands in <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/KareWares">my shop</a> are on sale for $5 so I can get some new stock up. Thanks!Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-30143113740088702792013-08-17T21:29:00.000-07:002013-08-17T21:29:07.847-07:00Bridal flower crownRecently a friend asked if I could make a headpiece for the bride from a bachelorette party that she was organizing. She wanted a floral crown that was a little more earthy than typical party gear. She shared a few pins and pictures with me for inspiration and basically let me choose the color scheme and overall look of the piece. <br />
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The party was tonight, so now I'm free to share pictures of what I made without ruining the surprise! (Naturally, I had to try it on to test out the fit, so bear with the pictures of me in someone else's crown.)<br />
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I usually shop at Joann's for my craft supplies (they sell most of what I need, and send me coupons through their mailing list), but for this project, I opted to get my stuff at Michael's. I've always been hesitant of silk flowers, but since this piece needed to last, I was pretty set on trying to find some that I liked. <br />
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The wedding is coming up this fall, so I wanted this piece to be a little autumn-ish, but still summery enough for August. I used mostly small white flowers and some orange and green ones. I found perfect glassy looking green and orange beads that were pretty earthy, but a little fancy too. <br />
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I twisted the wrapped wire and flowers together and fastened the flowers on it pretty securely (I also took each flower off and glued them back onto their plastic stems since they have a tendency to pop off pretty easily).<br />
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I didn't know how big to make it, but since I wanted it to fit and stay on, I loop each end of the crown and braided yarn to tie the whole thing on. The crown itself has some flexibility, so it can be bent to fit better if needed. <br />
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I'm so happy with how this turned out! I love getting requests for projects; I feel inspired to try new things and do my best to make them work. The bachelorette party is happening now, so I hope that the bride-to-be enjoys this crown as much as I enjoyed making it! (In fact, I feel some inspiration for my own wedding plans!)</div>
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Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-21859300594921781252013-08-16T14:53:00.001-07:002013-08-16T14:53:45.371-07:00Summer crafting: apron topSummer has been super busy so far, between music festivals, outdoor activities, grad school, and work, but I've still managed to complete some projects that I'd been meaning to get to! Here's something that I whipped up this weekend:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Gin & tonic, the ideal summer beverage)</td></tr>
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I bought some corduroy remnants at the craft store this past winter and knew I wanted to make some sort of patchwork project, but I waited until the right inspiration struck. After five festivals so far this year, I decided a patchwork apron top would be best for this fabric. I considered making a dress, but my wardrobe is definitely lacking cute tops to pair with shorts. <br />
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I made the top of the shirt a little longer, with one panel of black and pink right below it. I pleated the bust, so it's more fitted than traditional apron tops, so it looks a little less "maternity" wardrobe. I also top-stitched everything to give it a finished look.<br />
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I can't believe how well the fabrics all go together, and they were in the same remnant bin at the same time! I figure someone else mixed those fabrics as well. (I also love that remnants are generally 50% their current price, meaning if it's already on sale, I get a double discount!)<br />
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The back of the top is pretty open and revealing. I wanted it to cover a little more, but really, who cares? It laces up, so there's some detailing over my back.<br />
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I added an applique lotus on the front of the top. I recently bought a different brand of fusible webbing than I'd usually used, and it's a little trickier to apply. It stuck to the front of the appliques and looked bad, so I had to double up on the layers of my lotus.<br />
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I love how this project turned out! It was just my second totally from scratch, no pattern, homemade clothing item, so I'm pretty proud of the results. Summer may be almost over, but I'm sure I'll have a few opportunities to wear this before autumn starts to roll in!<br />
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Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-73739130227894685582013-07-25T21:11:00.000-07:002013-07-25T21:11:32.974-07:00Dreamcatcher: Crocheter's interpretation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I decided to make a dream catcher a month or so ago. Well, it was actually a project I'd had in my mind for awhile, I just wasn't sure how to execute it. I'd found many inspirations on Pinterest, ranging from traditional to interpretive with vintage doilies. I decided to just go for it and picked up an embroidery hoop from the thrift store for a few dollars and some yarn (I threw away the package, so I need to go back to the store to find out the exact color).<br />
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First I wrapped the whole hoop in hemp. It took forever because I wanted it tight so you couldn't see wood through gaps. <br />
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Then I went to work on my center piece. I've done very little crocheting in the round. Like, a few hats and some tiny flowers. I did it all by guess-work and figured that once it was stretched on the hoop it would be alright. After a few rounds I wove in two layers of hemp and then crocheted three more. This was the hardest part. I think I took it apart a few times when the hemp was too loose or tight.<br />
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Then I stretched the whole thing with hemp as tightly as possible and bound it to the hoop. <br />
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I made a whole bunch of stuff to hang from the bottom of my dreamcatcher. I crocheted chains and made braids and tassels from hemp and yarn and strung them through the hemp on the hoop. I wanted to add feathers, but decided even though that's a traditional dreamcatcher feature, they might be overkill on my interpretation.<br />
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I added a chain on the top to hang the piece from and it was done! This was one of my favorite projects in a while. It was challenging because I had no idea what I was doing, but I practiced some new skills, took my time, and wound up with something that I love to have hanging on my wall!<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-20297371358062840032013-06-18T20:12:00.000-07:002013-06-18T20:12:42.609-07:00Spring mushroomsA few weeks ago I got the urge to hunt morels. People were posting pictures on Facebook left and right, raving about their delicious, meaty un-meat meals. I wanted to find a morel. A few friends wanted to go disc golfing at a local course a few days later, and one had seen morels on his last trip there. <br />
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I was going to find a morel.<br />
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While they played, I tromped through the woods, determined to find some glorious mushrooms. Let's be honest, I had no idea what I was doing. (Something about looking for dead trees, I think?) Needless to say, I wound up with mosquito bites, and no mushrooms. <br />
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I joined back up with my group and shortly after, my friend Molly spotted a morel, in plain view, directly off a path near a fairway. It was kind of like a scene from a movie where a beam of light lands on a treasure chest- just a mushroom popping out of the green in plain view of anyone who'd walk by. <br />
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We investigated the area with our group of five and scrounged up over twenty mushrooms! Behold:<br />
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We looked around through the rest of walk, but only found one more mushroom. At the end of it all, we split the morels two ways (one of our friends already had a bunch at home that needed to be eaten) between two couples. Mark and I cooked them up with butter and garlic. OMG. One of the best things I've ever eaten. I get it. I get the hunt (for vegetarians!), the scarcity... the free (delicious!) food!! I think our morel season is over now, but I'm anxious to try again next year!<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-17454941247183204652013-06-16T19:15:00.003-07:002013-06-16T19:15:53.375-07:00Weekend exploringI haven't been posting much lately. Things have been busy, more on that another time. But anyways, this weekend we went for a bike ride to the farmer's market and saw this:<br />
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I've seen lots of yarn-bombing, but never anything quite as intricate (except in pictures). It was tucked away off a bike trail in the woods, near a little rest area. It made my heart smile. I hope I see more great work like this over the summer! </div>
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<3Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-3279748393775001572013-05-06T16:23:00.002-07:002013-05-06T16:23:27.941-07:00My engagement ring!A week and a half ago I got my new engagement ring! We'd sent back the one Mark had originally given me, because it was a couple sizes too big. It was a wire-wrapped gemstone ring and originally the designer said we'd have to pick something new because my finger size was too small for a ring that fit the three original stones. Much to our surprise, he was able to fit each of the stones in my new ring with some minor adjustments! <br />
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I love it so much! It's totally unique and special because Mark chose it for me. We're probably going to get a different "forever" ring for after the wedding. I'll probably wear both, but want the option to take this one off because of it's size and to keep it safe. <br />
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So yay! We've already been planning some parts of our wedding (the big day is going to be a year from this Friday!) and I'm excited to show my inspiration and plans here on the blog! Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-90410914761637273492013-04-28T09:14:00.001-07:002013-04-28T09:15:28.592-07:00DIY Revisited: Mother's Day flower pot with template<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEkDOkZNjF4ttqAppuQw8ASx3E9cbTyKuAe-23cs3opMURTGuRLzXQiqjo4aOFTr183_-dq8eVpio_K0gCdKNJ8-cyLcJowepVJjszOSNoLgwxvMwZYqW8D8PiS72pTVH7CTYTZYmfft0/s1600/DIY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEkDOkZNjF4ttqAppuQw8ASx3E9cbTyKuAe-23cs3opMURTGuRLzXQiqjo4aOFTr183_-dq8eVpio_K0gCdKNJ8-cyLcJowepVJjszOSNoLgwxvMwZYqW8D8PiS72pTVH7CTYTZYmfft0/s320/DIY.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Last year I wrote <a href="http://karewares.blogspot.com/2012/05/diy-mothers-day-flower-pot-card.html">a post</a> with an idea for a Mother's Day card that I like to do at school with my kids each year. This year I decided to make a template to speed up the process!<br />
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<a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v628/ocdgirlscout/mothersday-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v628/ocdgirlscout/mothersday-01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v628/ocdgirlscout/mothersday-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v628/ocdgirlscout/mothersday-02.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here are your options for different ways to use the pattern:<br />
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1. Print the pages and either use them as is. You can let kids cut and color the pieces, but normal printer paper will be more on the flimsy side.<br />
2. Photocopy them onto construction paper. This is what I'm doing at work, we have a heavy duty printer that will take construction paper without a problem. Then I let the kids to the cutting and help them put all the pieces together.<br />
3. Cut out the pieces and and use them to trace the shapes onto construction paper. Then let the kids cut their pieces and finish the project.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B-zsAXG8tkuJaDNseUNhSXFXQ2c/edit?usp=sharing">Click here to download the PDF.</a></span></h2>
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<a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v628/ocdgirlscout/mothersday-02-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v628/ocdgirlscout/mothersday-02-1.jpg" width="274" /></a></div>
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Hope this helps make this project easier some of you out there! If you want more information and details on putting the card together, go to my <a href="http://karewares.blogspot.com/2012/05/diy-mothers-day-flower-pot-card.html">original post</a>. Happy (almost) Mother's Day!</div>
Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-78262998645774937822013-04-21T18:04:00.001-07:002013-04-21T18:04:55.398-07:00What I've been up to latelyI'm really not getting better at regular posting lately, but in my own defense, things have been crazy busy... we got engaged, I'm finishing up my last class in my graphic design program (which happens to be character animation and is not my forte), and I was just in my first craft show! <br />
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Being my first show, I had a lot to do other than making product (which I spent a lot of time on). I ordered business cards, made tags for my merch, and made displays for my stuff (with Mark as the construction implementer). It all got done, and looked great for the show!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXVH4Yi_k8znd5hJp2i_Hhdk41PJNa2euHnotRxFtxQlaaQF2Fn1oCML167S2lHC0RmsnuOSNY9eIzVCjGUjKvQqBb2jGQiJXEz9d9LWNHhTqHOFSYSzz6AplVpgJg2-yrnQc8T-_ZI4U/s1600/booth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXVH4Yi_k8znd5hJp2i_Hhdk41PJNa2euHnotRxFtxQlaaQF2Fn1oCML167S2lHC0RmsnuOSNY9eIzVCjGUjKvQqBb2jGQiJXEz9d9LWNHhTqHOFSYSzz6AplVpgJg2-yrnQc8T-_ZI4U/s400/booth.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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My table display was made almost entirely from stuff we had at home. Mark made display boards and a headband rack with wood from his shop and I covered them with fabric I already had. I bought three cheap necklace holders at thrift stores for $1-2 apiece to hang other headbands on. Everything else (fabric on the table, boxes, the actual tables, etc.) was stuff we had! Oh yeah, and I made the KareWares bunting which is a bit hard to read in the photo. I loved my booth. It looked unique and really stood out in the room!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKEDkbWQcikQXpKM976SP41mBBOZpVxTvH0qpuFBh3MoqDuNpnbKnSrpICot0YdwSJ-Pq1xy5tMd1WcJ0aON7MzFuKVo-eotk52zt4i4RfXT-TS0CVkNXLPDUf3wE-Yap49DZz2KvT8fg/s1600/cards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKEDkbWQcikQXpKM976SP41mBBOZpVxTvH0qpuFBh3MoqDuNpnbKnSrpICot0YdwSJ-Pq1xy5tMd1WcJ0aON7MzFuKVo-eotk52zt4i4RfXT-TS0CVkNXLPDUf3wE-Yap49DZz2KvT8fg/s320/cards.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I designed my business cards, printed through Vistaprint and they turned out great!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Dkp5b7L5vEghFYqeEPIxq3aCUxFArG-vCuJOcG8DnHhSwKYcy2lBiLZQjUSMgpDGg1q-o2K1uePNhXZYOsYXqPOf7kK5OymGtnSFGuJPHGegUs1eTN5MhrZPakx9MYE1MGDQ1_DFxvE/s1600/labels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Dkp5b7L5vEghFYqeEPIxq3aCUxFArG-vCuJOcG8DnHhSwKYcy2lBiLZQjUSMgpDGg1q-o2K1uePNhXZYOsYXqPOf7kK5OymGtnSFGuJPHGegUs1eTN5MhrZPakx9MYE1MGDQ1_DFxvE/s400/labels.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I made tags with photo paper I was never going to use (home printers can be such a pain), label tape my dad gave me, and a stamp with my logo, also from Vistaprint. </div>
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The show went... well, ok. The overall turnout was actually quite poor and there were other vendors who didn't sell anything. I reached my goal of making back what the table space cost, plus some, so I felt somewhat satisfied (although business could have been better). I think I could have done better in a more urban, well-advertised fair, but those do generally cost more to enter. And what's with craft shows having mostly non-craft vendors? Oh well, now I know and am prepared to enter another show when the time comes! Again, thanks to Mark for building my stuff and keeping me company during the long day, and to friends and family for stopping by to say hello or pick up a craft!</div>
<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-64611300912087214092013-04-05T11:06:00.000-07:002013-04-05T11:07:41.821-07:00Craft show preparationAs I get ready for my first craft show that's just a week away (eek!) I realize how much there actually is to do that I wouldn't have otherwise thought of... processing payments, tagging, displays, branding, etc.<br />
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Here are a few of the things I've been able to accomplish so far:<br />
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Payments: I ordered a <a href="https://squareup.com/?gclid=COH7r9CLtLYCFc9cMgodkCEAOQ">Square</a>. It's free to recieve and when you process payments by credit card they only take 2.75% of the purchase total. That seems worth it to me for sales that I might otherwise lose if people aren't carrying cash. It hooks up to your iPad or smartphone and the app processes<br />
payments straight to your bank account.<br />
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Branding: I have a few other things in the works, but my business cards were my first plan. I designed them, printed through Vistaprint, and they turned out great! I wasn't sure how the color would compare to my computer screen, but it's pretty spot-on. I'll throw them in bags with sold items and place some on my table.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdXc62qrbMvHO0MJ8_3VV5Rwo-dYLi7LV_0UYrG0-oonYFpgGJ5WRN7HT-eRFrX0sKe1iOaACODoZSQvjNyNpp8a-bmMpz4G2whFdF-_wUmFpJ2sb27pnLXLoWUuFptN2XV8YtTDL7Lxs/s1600/blogger-image--15482369.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdXc62qrbMvHO0MJ8_3VV5Rwo-dYLi7LV_0UYrG0-oonYFpgGJ5WRN7HT-eRFrX0sKe1iOaACODoZSQvjNyNpp8a-bmMpz4G2whFdF-_wUmFpJ2sb27pnLXLoWUuFptN2XV8YtTDL7Lxs/s400/blogger-image--15482369.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Tagging: After I ordered the cards, I got a coupon from Vistaprint in my email. I ordered a stamp for creating tags and after discounts, it was $3.99+ shipping! I stamped it on some Scotch brand label tape my dad got for my birthday (he works for 3M). I used old photo paper that we were never going to print on for the tags and put them with my stuff!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTBTTSuUq1r0PEncLzzm55Wok_Ygl8d8m7HS3Df2vEEaW1246c4aMHulJof7silKWIZCHBEyNx2fnF32oa8iFXaClH9DZb52gpju4FjSMKx24FwmfKQds1JVXFSvdRdgweE2ii-V08whs/s1600/blogger-image--728297489.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTBTTSuUq1r0PEncLzzm55Wok_Ygl8d8m7HS3Df2vEEaW1246c4aMHulJof7silKWIZCHBEyNx2fnF32oa8iFXaClH9DZb52gpju4FjSMKx24FwmfKQds1JVXFSvdRdgweE2ii-V08whs/s400/blogger-image--728297489.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'll hopefully be sharing more of my progress over the next week, including display plans and the banner for my table!</div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-64623534900224093362013-04-04T10:59:00.003-07:002013-04-04T10:59:57.301-07:00Big news!Well, we've had a lot going on lately, but that will have to wait because...<br />
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<b>WE GOT ENGAGED!</b></h3>
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It happened on my birthday this past Tuesday, and I couldn't be more excited! Mark is such an important part of my life, and since we met so many things changed for the better. I can't wait to embark on this new part of our lives together! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiElwTIHFLqF_yrAsh4bwBgHfR3vEFlHqahDXuYwUaKREzHdLxJUcovT7FCdL6IlH2hMFqfsoQZ9V9tD2hUB9_zCLLkgljOY_B9yUJvXf2KKLHbsF0b7xvXyMpImI1nfDC-YOVYZKzYijI/s1600/blogger-image-1962396830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiElwTIHFLqF_yrAsh4bwBgHfR3vEFlHqahDXuYwUaKREzHdLxJUcovT7FCdL6IlH2hMFqfsoQZ9V9tD2hUB9_zCLLkgljOY_B9yUJvXf2KKLHbsF0b7xvXyMpImI1nfDC-YOVYZKzYijI/s400/blogger-image-1962396830.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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(No gratuitous ring shots yet- Mark picked out a fabulous wire-wrapped gemstone ring which, unfortunately, did not fit. More unfortunate is the fact that it can't be made in my size because of the size of the stones, but we picked a new one that I love and it should arrive soon!)</div>
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Now we have a wedding to plan and (of course) much of it will be DIY! I'd love any suggestions and guidance along the way and can't wait to share our journey!<br />
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Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-28549323397379117782013-04-01T18:44:00.000-07:002013-04-01T20:46:05.741-07:00Little projects I've been crafting like crazy lately, getting things ready for my first craft show! Our house seems to be overtaken with my supplies... sewing machine on the table, piles of fabric across the living room floor, yarn <i>everywhere</i>. I will be a relieved when the show has come and gone, and I know I made things I genuinely liked. Some of my favorite things to make are these little brooches and hair clips with flowers and embroidery. <br />
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Here are a few of my favorites:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzdForL2iIUN6w7jmnU236jqYw8cjZhiHCxXZD6abzfBSHzT2cDQJaXPEMrBhIhaxAQ7OQNd-mijWU5wlP8L0LJLraqNvyDp78Dwu3MZDm5ifVnLcVZ3muQ38c2mp-_elQE8rhEZ3Bg7o/s1600/DSC02970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzdForL2iIUN6w7jmnU236jqYw8cjZhiHCxXZD6abzfBSHzT2cDQJaXPEMrBhIhaxAQ7OQNd-mijWU5wlP8L0LJLraqNvyDp78Dwu3MZDm5ifVnLcVZ3muQ38c2mp-_elQE8rhEZ3Bg7o/s320/DSC02970.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Some are felt and beads, some have little crocheted flowers I whipped up. It's nice being able to have variation between pieces by changing things slightly.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG8WGgSgBhhnNfGNVpNos81giASZHtestRDyhyphenhyphenqapcG6hkmX2WPgqKqQiukmcSFw8boD2JErI8rnkI3-vad6K3uuYnLMZYCRG748UoxlOm97qYbOVpfiuR5IQEz-nJI3KJ6xvO4CAkgVw/s1600/DSC02993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3abc-JSbiEtOIrCn7xwi119gtwHzOaNgU8Kvf2-KLtjNLq4MiBAqSJ7oGN1R4AkPpyDp-mNfOStz3pBf11hD4woXcwfQvyVor-q52oLdE5246hPGAWCBPUwogFhPA4AXbVI9UEneuBo/s1600/DSC02964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3abc-JSbiEtOIrCn7xwi119gtwHzOaNgU8Kvf2-KLtjNLq4MiBAqSJ7oGN1R4AkPpyDp-mNfOStz3pBf11hD4woXcwfQvyVor-q52oLdE5246hPGAWCBPUwogFhPA4AXbVI9UEneuBo/s400/DSC02964.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtGS7U55fD1yzEAPcZE5Yq_vBfe1Tp-ELa6chBJOPoQuZs_FMd5yd3kM2ztf1BCAVsXZUM_y0Up2KrPpnhZy4oL4iDqdbE_DHKmuaMylBhpjVadJ_QuP3xhgO6LpzLMpHSrqvUEfVap-Q/s1600/DSC02937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtGS7U55fD1yzEAPcZE5Yq_vBfe1Tp-ELa6chBJOPoQuZs_FMd5yd3kM2ztf1BCAVsXZUM_y0Up2KrPpnhZy4oL4iDqdbE_DHKmuaMylBhpjVadJ_QuP3xhgO6LpzLMpHSrqvUEfVap-Q/s320/DSC02937.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Well, back to work. I'm very excited and nervous about the show, so hoping it goes well! (I may have had a nightmare that I didn't sell anything, so here's to hoping I sell at least one or two things!)<br />
<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-3653974317813449502013-03-10T19:56:00.000-07:002013-03-10T19:56:08.655-07:00Thrift store fabric score!I generally shy away from bundles of fabric at the thrift store; they're bagged up with a bunch of different prints and colors and I usually only want one out of the lot. So, I skip on buying the whole bag for just one fabric (even though they're still cheaper than the craft store... but with the bags you never know how much you're getting or in what condition). However, when I was thrifting a few weeks back, I couldn't resist this $4 bag of awesome cloth!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKLtsVV0R_jOMg05VRuvI3gmI6mcxOubHqYyXiVOU2vho1FR6GG79sFIXd7ekC5ny2UK6wouLVtFnDhM38PzvJuGhJ-elYnnc7jK2t1JzVzXeBevbzQePWm51jj4GVbfk-yYfG99DzHwQ/s1600/DSC02637.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKLtsVV0R_jOMg05VRuvI3gmI6mcxOubHqYyXiVOU2vho1FR6GG79sFIXd7ekC5ny2UK6wouLVtFnDhM38PzvJuGhJ-elYnnc7jK2t1JzVzXeBevbzQePWm51jj4GVbfk-yYfG99DzHwQ/s400/DSC02637.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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(The gray, yellow, orange, and olive floral print was actually a separate purchase, but within the same day, so I threw it into the pictures. Oh, and the spotty stuff on the right isn't my thing, but I'm holding onto it for the time-being to see if inspiration strikes.)<br />
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I opened up the bag when I got home, and much to my excitement, found nearly ten yards of uncut, perfect fabric, some still with the original labels! The fabric was old, but beautiful and some had incredible texture! <br />
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I started lining up the fabrics to see what would go together and came up with a few combinations for whatever I decide to sew. I like the orange with both of the prints below (but may make the argyle print into some cute high-waisted shorts). <br />
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The green print and the purple go together nicely.<br />
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And because I love this one so much, I still need to include it in the post. I did buy it separately, but it's so awesome I can't wait to plan sewing something from it. I'm thinking some pants... or something! <br />
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So yay for buying my first grab bag of cloth at the thrift store! I consider this purchase a major success and have already started sewing with some of it. I've even bought another bag with similar success since! Can't wait to show some of the projects that come out of a few dollars!<br />
<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-14910823968822043532013-03-09T12:50:00.000-08:002013-03-09T21:42:32.699-08:00Super easy DIY bobby pin saver<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For years I've been dealing with a problem women all over the world struggle with: where <i>the heck </i>did all my bobby pins go?! It seems like I buy those huge packs a few times a year and then can't find any hair pins when I really need them. I clean my house, expecting to hit a jackpot, but no such luck. Where did all my bobby pins go??<br />
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I decided to figure out a solution with things I had around the house and am sharing what I came up with. It's very easy and you may already have the supplies around your own home!<br />
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1. First, gather your supplies:<br />
-A photo frame without the glass (mine was 8"x10", but smaller would work)<br />
-Fabric slightly larger than your frame<br />
-Magnetic tape<br />
-Scissors<br />
-Multi-surface adhesive (I used Scotch Maximum Strength Adhesive)<br />
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2. Take your frame apart and cut your magnetic tape to fit the backing piece. Double check that the piece will fit in the frame with this attached. If not, cut it a little shorter.<br />
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3. Cut more pieces of tape. I used 6.<br />
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4. Peel the backing from your tape and mount it on the backing. If it doesn't stick well, use a little of your adhesive.<br />
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5. Cut your fabric a little larger than your backing piece. I left an inch of fabric on each edge. Double check that the bobby pins stick with the fabric over the magnets. If they don't, you may need thinner fabric or stronger magnets. <br />
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6. Wrap the fabric over the piece and glue on the back.<br />
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7. Put your backing piece back in the frame.<br />
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8. Hang and never spend your mornings looking for bobby pins again!<br />
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Hope this is an easy solution for others! I'm pretty proud of this project and hope that it will be a while until I need to buy more bobby pins (I just have to remember to actually stick them up there!) Good luck with this little project!Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-6044813669165581022013-02-25T16:55:00.000-08:002013-02-25T16:55:40.633-08:00Granny bunting 2.0: final resultsAbout three months ago I was working on a little project with "granny triangles" to make bunting for a friend as a Christmas gift. I finished it probably a day or two after my <a href="http://karewares.blogspot.com/2012/11/granny-bunting-take-2.html">first post</a> about the project, took some pictures, gave it to my pal, and then didn't think about it for a while. <br />
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I revisited those pictures today and decided it was about time I posted them. Besides, I loved this project! The colors were very cute together and the result (unlike my <a href="http://karewares.blogspot.com/2012/10/granny-bunting-for-my-craft-room.html">first bunting attempt </a>with insanely fuzzy yarn that doesn't show stitches) is tidy and delicate.<br />
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I usually steer away from white, well... everything, but I had this super soft yarn that a friend didn't want, so I gave it a shot. It's nice and I managed to keep it looking lovely until gift-swapping time. The other colors were left from other past projects. And yes, I used three different sized yarns, but it didn't seem to affect spacing or size of each triangle. <br />
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Hanging in our dining room for a few pictures. Oh, look at the lovely wall paper a previous owner hung. It's like a Tommy Bahama shirt exploded on the walls. <br />
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I especially love the scalloped edges I added around the triangles and on the chain they hang on. I used this technique on another recent project. I think it adds a great finished look. The tassels really add a nice touch as well. I'd definitely make a similar project again (maybe for myself or another friend) and maybe try to write a simple pattern if anyone is interested in making their own! <br />
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I'm excited I've been getting around to sharing some of my recent projects. I need to get back in a habit of blogging, especially because I have so much to share. Hope to be back again soon!Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-34364006350931658492013-02-24T20:39:00.000-08:002013-02-25T20:22:36.981-08:00A weekend projectOh, I must be just about the worst blogger ever. It's been, what... a month or so? Well, in my defense, my computer is on it's way out and I haven't been able to edit photos at all. Hoping to remedy the situation soon though!<br />
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In the meantime, I've done many projects that I hope to show soon. Here's what I made this weekend:<br />
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Wrist warmers with flowers to get me through the last of winter! I bought the green yarn for a project I was working on, but it wasn't the right color (serves me right for not saving my yarn labels). I loved the color and super soft texture, so I kept it for other projects. I made up this pattern as I went, but I think I remember it well enough to make another similar project again soon. The flowers were made from scraps of yarn and buttons lying around. A cozy, simple, comfy weekend project. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">I can't wait to wear these out soon! </span></div>
Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-60940956599132907412013-01-13T17:33:00.002-08:002013-01-13T17:38:14.769-08:00Home sewn Hobbes plushI recently made my first stuffed animal (and perhaps my last): a stuffed Hobbes!<br />
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A few weeks before Christmas a co-worker asked if I could make the comic cat as a plush toy for her son. I was pretty occupied making gifts for my own family, but I told her I could finish after the holidays if she'd like to wait.<br />
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I found a free pattern online, <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Stuffed-Hobbes-with-pattern/?ref=nf">find it here</a>. It was a great pattern to follow- clear instructions and tons of pictures. If you decide to try out this project, I'd definitely recommend following this plan! <br />
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Then, after the holidays, I got started. I bought 1/2 yd. orange no-pill fleece, 1/4 yd. each of black and white. I'd say I used half the fabric, but I wanted to have extra in case I needed to re-cut any pieces. The fabric was 1/2 off at Joann Fabrics, so I spent $5 on materials. I already had thread and stuffing, so I was ready to get to work.<br />
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I followed the <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Stuffed-Hobbes-with-pattern/?ref=nf">directions</a> to a T, which was sometimes hard because I like to make things up as I go when I'm working on a project. Really, the directions are so clear and well-written I wouldn't have done anything differently. That being said, I didn't find the project too easy...<br />
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Here are some of the challenges I faced in the project:<br />
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1. Machine-related issues. I had some problems with my machine jamming up on parts of the fleece, some stitch skips, and thread breaking. I think this could have been avoided with a good cleaning and oiling before I'd begun the project. I even changed out my needles twice in the process.<br />
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2. Bunching where I sewed on the limbs. If you look at the original pattern, the arms and legs are sewn on perfectly, but I just couldn't figure out how to get mine that neat. That being said, it doesn't take away from the toy and it still looks great, just not as good as the original.<br />
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3. Hand sewing the stripes on. I feel like there's an easier way to do this... maybe sewing strips of the orange and black together and then trying to cut the other pieces from that, but I don't know, I just know that this part took a lot of time.<br />
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All in all, I'd say this took me about 10+ hours to complete. It would probably have gone quicker for a more skilled sewer, or if I'd taken the time to get my machine in tip-top shape before hand. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlpTS9Wqj7K2nGWPpXUdqB-XiKruMQxn07yj4s_ARyC33axLaQuh59BTCcDyLBhj9GjM13gqNQtk3u0cF0SrYGiN9Jj5x4h_DTdfB7a9HkkOdY4r6_3vndmrfmgCeH0fcy3K0Q2gLD0qs/s1600/DSC02074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlpTS9Wqj7K2nGWPpXUdqB-XiKruMQxn07yj4s_ARyC33axLaQuh59BTCcDyLBhj9GjM13gqNQtk3u0cF0SrYGiN9Jj5x4h_DTdfB7a9HkkOdY4r6_3vndmrfmgCeH0fcy3K0Q2gLD0qs/s400/DSC02074.JPG" width="301" /></a></div>
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The toy turned out so cute! If you're wondering about size, it was about a foot tall, from top of the head to the bottom of the torso... a pretty perfect size for a stuffed animal. I gave it to the co-worker who's son loved it (even if it did come after Christmas) and he sent back a letter to Santa's elves (that's me!). I'd maybe consider doing another project like this again now that I have the experience, but for now I'm back to my own projects for at least a while!<img src="data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAABAAAAAQCAYAAAAf8%2F9hAAAB30lEQVQ4EZVTSy8DURT%2BZjpm6GhL0pKQphYeCZF4hIVEWLDowsaCxMJC8AP8AMI%2FsBQWFhKPxMpGbIgFK6vWe0WoRVOPPihth3vmTm%2FTUuEs7r3zzfnO950zdySw6Nz6%2FKT9v3EyIknSX8idHiZSBRzcA1fP%2BTK%2FFiDiXBdQo%2BdI%2Fp00wklFALI4FRxm2oCl%2FnwypXS7E8gYGZH9YwFSHWvgOUehd0zsPYJ2CqcqI5lK8pdszXmxICIP1fGHueMXLAcS0BQNTW4bemqAu1gGhmElsy2vAKkWkl12F3RNR2UpJwUjKSisYDZEC44SYKqFw2SXlLNkQvuZ%2Bn3cwFkkzYppkCWeKwqQMhWhWAly26RMQV%2BhsQLYvXmHqqgwIMOwbo5ooa%2FWzDUXFxuUXmp5ZgjNhWLjIg67Wo50sRnwNGC%2Bx4mnwxQ%2BmMp0M7tEHjY8Zv%2BU9V%2FtUmG5N9OFg1CCJxJKn2p1IDcowm6jbHiygnaPzXRw%2FgRQF2IG69dAlCSLhNehYKpVx2Iv4PcBUuEQ6Y5P7mdMm1Qj%2BmFg8%2BoVg9thE%2FM6bBiu1zC%2B94a1ixSyv5%2B0cDmaJxtP6jh%2FaADtii0Nt%2BMR3sqQwJxlMXT4AswBp5lGCosU6eIbPNu0KX0BMmqe8Db%2Bbr8AAAAASUVORK5CYII%3D" style="cursor: pointer; left: 143px; padding: 2px; position: absolute; top: 329px; z-index: 1000000;" title="Click to edit this image in Aviary" />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5868058710319008979.post-79874006658524718162013-01-10T18:36:00.002-08:002013-01-10T18:36:51.403-08:00More life and catsIt seems that the recent trend in my life has been crafting incessantly, working occasionally, and blogging never. I made Christmas gifts for family, a stuffed animal for a co-worker's child, plus a few personal projects, yet photo editing and writing have been low on my list of priorities. I suppose I'll get there soon...<br />
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In the meantime, another entry about cats. This time, Miles: handsome, beautiful Miles got a haircut. About a year ago, before I moved in with Mark and his cats, I groomed Miles to perfection: got rid of knots, dreads, and otherwise unattractive hairy situations. Then, this summer, after I moved into the house with my own cats, Miles seemed to become, well... depressed. He quit grooming, started whining, and developed a drinking habit (water, that is... a serious preoccupation with water from the faucet). <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK7qvLHOYMoeMrztlhePyBSIR7_41mEHaqPY2lK-k_10c8_nbSD37syHLL_B473JBUY4Rn6FVLpbuhETNKPSwnlcIVoCXShCQqTkmayLmcGSOGvKow-maQdfBRhXxT6MjBknHkucvYWEk/s1600/486961_10151207837013073_821943714_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK7qvLHOYMoeMrztlhePyBSIR7_41mEHaqPY2lK-k_10c8_nbSD37syHLL_B473JBUY4Rn6FVLpbuhETNKPSwnlcIVoCXShCQqTkmayLmcGSOGvKow-maQdfBRhXxT6MjBknHkucvYWEk/s400/486961_10151207837013073_821943714_n.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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He's since been to the vet who suggested a grooming. (I'd tried to comb out the knots, but even with my expensive, well-made brush, wasn't making much progress.) So Mark took him for a lion cut. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-rsVSsqY-ySwL-4yG7aNGkRd6ekxbp08Z_07Wf2qQCvIYnZBjS3Ulp3wmVheqVfG8yWxhzjOQIYBRugPXIJw7bQ01qw1owQvhc5EcHW8UNVNsrN_HVD66RaZh5XG7UTM_pOiyOvfsM-M/s1600/DSC02082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-rsVSsqY-ySwL-4yG7aNGkRd6ekxbp08Z_07Wf2qQCvIYnZBjS3Ulp3wmVheqVfG8yWxhzjOQIYBRugPXIJw7bQ01qw1owQvhc5EcHW8UNVNsrN_HVD66RaZh5XG7UTM_pOiyOvfsM-M/s400/DSC02082.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td></tr>
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Honestly, he looks totally ridiculous, cute, and fragile. I'm practically afraid to pick him up now. BUT, on the plus side of things, his fur will grow back and we're hoping he'll keep up the maintenance (with our help) to be a happy, comfortable, handsome kitty. <br />
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The other cats seem interested in his new look (and probably the smell of the groomer's that's lingering). <br />
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He also wasn't too interested in posing until I played with him, but these pictures are priceless. I'm sure his fur will grow back before I even know it, so I have to capture this pictures while I can! <br />
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And soon, posts of awesome craft projects... I hope!Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04191834354039719573noreply@blogger.com0