-x- EssHaych -x-

Hey Ho

2011-11-05T19:42:00.004Z

Hi!

Sorry I haven't been around much, to tell you the truth I haven't done any amigurumi in over 2 months :( I've been giving crochet on the whole a break, but am now starting to find my feet again. I think my problem is that I'm not doing the Brentwood Craft Fair this Christmas, so I have no one to crochet for. I hope everyone else is getting on ok though!

Another reason why I'm popping by is to tell you that my brothers band that I mentioned in September, FTL, has been entered into a competition to support McFly on their upcoming Spring Tour! Every vote counts, so if you can please check out the McFly Battle Of The Bands page and vote!

Many Thankies!

Sarah
-x-

New Listings

2011-09-19T15:23:00.003+01:00

Like I said in my Zombie Bunny Hat pattern post last week, I like to make Blythe hats when bored. Well, I have been very bored lately sooooo... lots of hats! I have made so many that I have decided to put some up on Etsy and see if there is any interest in them :) Up in my shop now are...

Zombie Bunny Hat

Halloween Elf Hat

Skull and Crossbones Elf Hat

Red Flower Helmet

I have other hats sitting around my room, but thought I'd just put 4 up now :) I hope you like!

Free Pattern - Zombie Bunny Hat

2011-09-09T22:28:00.006+01:00

Time for another free Blythe pattern lol! I promise - I haven't given up on Amigurumi!

I made this hat for my Blythe Zoe the other evening, whilst bored. I like crocheting little hats when I'm bored as they take no time at all to write and make :) The difference with this pattern is that it's been published over at EssHippo Blythe. I decided to publish it over there instead of here because it is basically a Blythe pattern, and this is more of an amigurumi blog :)

Zombie Bunny also features in the new banner *points above*. I hope you like the changes I made to the blog - I felt it was time for a change :)

Anyways, if you'd like to make a Zombie Bunny Hat for your girl, or for any of your ami's for that matter, head on over to EssHippo!

(Shameless plugging, I know. But what's the point of having your own blog if you can't plug something every now and again?!)

Treasury Feature

2011-09-08T21:48:00.004+01:00

The lovely Hollie from the fab Critterstop on Etsy was kind enough to email me today and tell me she had featured Gibbley in her cute new treasury - Critter Time! It's choc full of loads of kawaii cuties, from carrots to monsters; coffee mugs to hamsters! Check it out!

Thank you so much Hollie! *hugs*

Happy Birthday Glen

2011-09-07T21:24:00.004+01:00

It's my brothers 24th birthday today. Happy Birthday! :D I don't usually make him much (he's too cool to wear anything I make him...) but this year I made him this Lightning Bolt Scarf in his favorite colour...

Lightning Bolt Scarf
Monkey Waffles

He loved it! He probably won't wear it (lol) but will put it on his wall to pin badges to :) I think I'm going to make myself one in pink!

I loved the pattern, it was really easy to follow. I completed it in about 4 hours, over 2 days - quite a quick scarf :)

Also, while we're on the subject of my brother, he and his band FTL have been recording a new CD this year, and today set up their FaceBook page. You can view it here! There will be a CD out in the up coming months and a proper website too. And a video. And merch. Busy.

(Incase you were wondering - my brother is the one of the far left :) )

A Joint Venture

2011-09-04T20:56:00.004+01:00

You may or may not have heard me mention many times on this blog about my good friend Jill, aka OnePinkHippo. This year we were both bitten by the Blythe Bug - it's a dangerous, contagious disease that makes one obsessed with big headed, big eyed dolls...

Valerie-DBF on Flickr has is bad...

Jill and I have talked a whole lot about our own girls and those we've found on Flickr, and we have recently took the plunge and started customising our own. The only thing stopping us from meeting and discussing them further is the silly Atlantic Ocean, as I am in England and Jill in the US. That and about £500 for a plane ticket. So to bridge the gap we have started a joint venture, our very own Blythe blog!

With inspiration from the great Mason Dixon Knitting blog, we will use the blog to write letters to each other about all things Blythe. It will also be a database of Blythe knowledge, including links to free patterns, tried and trusted online stores/seller, customisation tutorials and much more.

So, if you've been bitten by the bug, or you're just curious about these funny looking dolls, pop on over to EssHippo! We'd love to see you there :)

Adopt A Baby Octopi!

2011-08-24T17:28:00.003+01:00

New to my Etsy Shop this week are Baby Octopi!

Colours listed at the moment are Bright Blue, Pastle Yellow and Multi Coloured. I plan on adding more, but if there was a specific colour you wanted just convo me on Etsy and I can make you one :)

Hope you like!

Sayomi

2011-08-21T21:04:00.003+01:00

I recieved my trade package from Kat250 on Friday!

Isn't she beautiful?! Her name's Sayomi - it means night born beauty :) It was a total suprise when I got her - I wasn't expecting her for at least another week, but there she was on Friday afternoon!

Thank you soooo much Katie - I love her! She lives on my desk and watches me crochet hehe! I hope you like your ami's as much as I love Sayomi!

Ckeck out more of Katies adorable dolls at her DA page here!

Trade Part II

2011-08-15T22:45:00.003+01:00

Here's the second installment of ami's for the trade I'm doing on DA with Kat250 :D I re-made the Kokeshi Doll in, yep, pink!

And there's another Morris Mouth and pink Pillow Pal too

I think I've made everything now! Phew! My fingers ache from crocheting! But it's worth it for one of them fab dolls :) I will be sending a couple of extra bits too to say Thanks for being a great trade partner, but I can't post them here yet incase she see's hehe!

Rioting Ami's

2011-08-12T19:09:00.004+01:00

Hey Ho!

I have recently become involved in a trade over on DeviantArt with the fab and amazingly talented Kat250. In exchange for some ami's, I am getting one of her fab dolls! Check out her work here

So I have been busy lately, so you should be seeing a bit more of me lol So far I have these two made:

A pink Gibbley! He looks super cute in pale pink!! A also re-made my Apple In A Pink Cosy...

I have been asked to apply some more blush to the apple, because you can't really see it very well. That's no problem, I have some darker stuff at hand :)

I am currently in the middle of making a Kokeshi doll, in, yep, pink! I have the head done, and have been waiting until today to make the hair, as I had run out of black yarn. So it was off to Hobby Craft today :)

Talking of Hobby Craft - you may have seen in the news about the Riots in the UK. I myself am only 30 mins away from London, so it's been abit tense. On Tuesday night there were reports of Basildon town centre itself being set alight, including my beloved Hobby Craft. Scary times. My brother was out for the evening and went round near the town centre that night, and said there were a ton of police on horseback sealing off the town centre, but fortunatly no fires. Phew! Thankfully things have quietened down in the past few days - I hope things continue to be peaceful :)

Crocheting For Blythe Mosaic

2011-07-29T19:54:00.001+01:00

Some more of the things I've made Zoe this week :)

What I've Been Up To

2011-07-26T18:28:00.004+01:00

Well, not much amigurumi sadly! I don't know why, but I just haven't been in the mood. I have started several ami's, get 5 rows in, then give up. I don't know why, but I just can't get into it.

I have been doing some crocheting though, for my Blythe doll Zoe. You've already seen the Fuzzy Bear Hat...

... and yesterday I made her a square hat and matching jacket...

I know it's July, but she insists on wearing it now! I will hopefully have the pattern for them up here soon :)

Apart from that I don't really have much to say :( I've been busy customising my fake Blythe doll Umi (follow her adventures here) and it's been really fun! I've done a bit of drilling, sanding, gluing, rerooting, painting, carving - it's been great! I even used yarn for her hair :)

Oh, wait! I did crochet a doll before I went away. I will get a picture of her for you asap :)

Yay For Treasury Features!

2011-07-21T17:32:00.003+01:00

I was browsing through Etsy Treasurys today and found that MintyAshyMummy was kind enough to feature Cuddle Monster in her fab new treasury, Kids Love Rainbows! There's so many bright, happy items in there - it's an honor to have Cuddle Monster included!

Thank you MintyAshyMummy! :D

Free Pattern: Fuzzy Bear Hat

2011-07-14T19:36:00.003+01:00

It's funny - I haven't crocheted in nearly a month, then I design and make a whole hat in 3 hours lol!

This free pattern is for the Blythe owners out there, or for anyone else that wants a little hat! I think it is a bit too small for a baby, but if you used a bigger than stated hook and thicker yarn it might do :)

I call it the Fuzzy Bear Hat because I have fuzzed it up abit. Because I use Acrylic yarn I can't felt the finished pieces, but I still wanted this hat to be a bit scruffy. So I took a stiff, cheapo toothbrush and 'scrubbed' at the hat, and it made it slightly fuzzy! Weeee!!

It's mega easy to make - like I said it only took me 3 hours to make and design it, plus Zoe loves it! I hope your girl will too!

Have fun!

Fuzzy Bear Hat

You Will Need:
· Crochet Hook (I used 3.75mm, F)
· Double Knit/ Sport Weight/ Light Worsted Weight Yarn in 2 colours
· Stitch Markers Or Piece Of Scrap Yarn
· Curved Needle or Yarn Needle
· 2 Buttons

Abbreviations
· St/Sts – Stitch/Stitches
· Ch - Chain Stitch
· Sc - Single Crochet
· Slst - Slip Stitch
· Inc (Increase) - 2 Sc into 1 St
· ** - Marks a group of stitches to be repeated until the round is completed

Gauge
No gauge, just keep your stitches nice and tight to avoid gaps in your work

Finished Size
Made to fit all Neo Blythes

Other Info
· Work in continuous rounds; in a spiral, unless otherwise stated. Don’t join at the end of a row; just keep going
· Use stitch markers or a piece of scrap yarn to mark the start of every round. Replace at the start of the next round as you go along. This will help you keep track of where you started, and saves a lot of time if things go wrong!
· I write my patterns in American terms, so Sc means Single Crochet; Dc means Double Crochet etc
· The number at the end of each round is the number of stitches you should now have
· Using a thicker yarn than DK/bigger hook than 3.75mm (F) will result in the toy being a considerably different size to that shown.

Fuzzy Bear Hat

In Colour 1
1. Ch 2, Sc 8 into 2nd Ch from hook, or Magic Ring 8 (8)
2. Inc around (16)
3. *Sc, Inc* around (24)
4. *Sc 2, Inc* around (32)
5. *Sc 3, Inc* around (40)
6. Sc around (40)
7. *Sc 4, Inc* around (48)
8-9. Sc around (48)
10. *Sc 5, Inc* around (56)
11-20. Sc around (56)

*Start 1st Earflap*
21-22. Sc 8. Ch 1, Turn (8)
23. Dec, Sc 4, Dec,. Ch 1, Turn (6)
24. Sc 6. Ch 1, Turn (6)
25. Dec, Sc 2, Dec. Ch 1, Turn (4)
26. Sc 4. Ch 1, turn (4)
27. *Dec* 2 times. Ch 1, Turn (2)
28. Sc 2 (2)
*Finish Off, Weave In End*

From the right side of the earflap you have just made (hat the right way up), count back 23 Sc. This will be the front of the hat.

Attach Colour 1 with a SlSt to 24th Sc, and…

*Start 2nd Earflap*
21-22. Sc 8. Ch 1, Turn (8)
23. Dec, Sc 4, Dec,. Ch 1, Turn (6)
24. Sc 6. Ch 1, Turn (6)
25. Dec, Sc 2, Dec. Ch 1, Turn (4)
26. Sc 4. Ch 1, turn (4)
27. *Dec* 2 times. Ch 1, Turn (2)
28. Sc 2 (2)
*Finish Off, Weave In End*

Ears
Make 2
In Colour 2
1. Ch 2, Sc 6 in 2nd Ch from hook, or Magic Ring 6 (6)
2. Inc around (12)

Change To Colour 1

3. Sc around (12)
4. *Sc, Inc* around (18)
5-6. Sc around (18)
7. *Sc, Dec* around (12)
8. Sc around (12)
9. Dec around (6)
*Finish Off, Leave Long Tail For Sewing*

Boarder
In Colour 2
Attach anywhere on the hat edge with a Slst, and Sc around the entire hat twice. Finish Off and weave in ends.

Assembly
. Take an ear, and fold it in on itself so it makes a half sphere/cone shape. Thread the tail from the ‘back’ of the ear through the bottom edge, so that the tail is at the ‘front’ of the ear, and sew to the hat. Repeat with 2nd ear.
. Sew 2 buttons to front of the hat.

Earflap Ties
In Colour 2
Cut 12 lengths of yarn, each around 50 cm’s long. With a yarn needle, thread 6 lengths onto the bottom of each earflap, so that each length is doubled over (12 shorter lengths in total on each earflap).

Braid the yarn until the length required. I cut mine off at knee level. Tie in a secure knot and trim excess.

*FINISHED!*

I hope you enjoyed the pattern! If you have any problems with it just comment below and I'll get back to you asap :)

Etsy Treasury Feature

2011-07-12T17:43:00.003+01:00

I was thrilled today to get an email from Etsy saying Gibbley had been included in Simply Made By Erin's super kawaii treasury, My Little Monster!

Inspired by her 3 year old son Owen, it features some extremely cute Monster themed items. Thank You Erin!

Also, check out Erin's Blog for some great crochet and craft bits!

New Blog - Umi's Corner

2011-07-09T20:57:00.006+01:00

I can't even keep up with this blog, so I don't know why I would want to start a new one!!

But I have - it's called Umi's Corner, web address 'UmiNeo.blogspot.com'. Its basically me talking about my new hobby - customising dolls!

After seeing all the great custom work on sites like Flickr, I was inspired, and bought a Basaak Blybe doll I called Umi Neo...

I know, great hair. But I didn't care what she looked like, as it's all coming off! The hair, makeup, facial features, eyes, eyelashes, clothes - all of it! You can see now why I didn't want to try out all these experiments on a £100 Blythe doll lol! This is what Umi currently looks like...

*Warning - Nude Dolly Alert!*

Phahaha! XD

So if you'd like to follow my adventures with Umi, Please feel free to join us over at Umi's Corner!

And don't worry - I'm still totally commited to crochet!! You don't get rid of me that easily...

Blog Award!

2011-07-06T23:45:00.002+01:00

Two posts in one day, you lucky people!!

Laura from the fab Cute Crochet Creations has nominated me for The Irresistibly Sweet Blog Award! Yay! Thank you Laura!! :D

So now I will continue the trend and share 7 things about myself...

1. If I won the lottery I would open a donkey sanctuary!
2. I have a vast collection of cacti
3. I can only see from one eye
4. I have just started a new blog (info to come when I have it up and running, and don't worry - I'm not stopping this one!)
5. My favourite food at the moment is/are Daim McFlurrys :D
6. I sometimes get really tired of crocheting :(
7. I have never been drunk!

And I'll also nominate 3 other blogs for their cuteness...

Just Joan for the super sweet calendar!!

One Pink Hippo for all the crochet and knitting cuteness!

Make A Mess for the kawaii dragon WIP!

Once again, Thank you Laura!! :D

I'm Baaaack...

2011-07-06T15:07:00.004+01:00

Currently: Listening To - Nothing, I am enjoying the silence.../ Feeling: Sore/ Reading: American Psycho

Hey! I'm back from Cyprus! I had a lovely time - it was veeeeery hot, and I even managed to get abit of a tan, which for me is very rare. It wasn't all great though - stupid me had a bit of an accident, I fell down some stairs and nearly broke my back XD

Thank you to everyone that commented and read while I was away - I have now replied to all your comments (I think...).

It will take me a few days to get back into the swing of things, but when I do I will be posting some of my more interesting holiday piccies (I had a go at taking some arty-farty ones lol).

Speak to your soon :)

Day 30: What’s your name on Ravelry? If you don’t have a Ravelry account, why?

2011-06-30T15:00:00.000+01:00

My name on Ravelry is, again, EssHaych :) My name on most crocheting and craft sights is EssHaych ie DeviantArt, Craftster, Flickr, Facebook...

Well, this past month has been very interesting!! I've actually enjoyed answering the questions, and have loved the comments! Thank you to all of you for that, especially Joan who has posted every single day along with me! I hope you have all enjoyed reading!

Day 29: Do you have any tips, or things that you’ve learned from crocheting?

2011-06-29T15:00:00.000+01:00

Oooo, let me think! I think the biggest thing I have learnt about crocheting is you never stop learning and improving.

I learnt the basics, then occasionally the odd fancy stitch and thought that would be it. But 3 years on I am still learning and adapting my work. My crocheting is vastly different, to me, from even the beginning of the year. I find my stitches get neater and tighter the more I do.

So even if you're not happy with your work or you think it'll never be as good as your crocheting idols, just carry on and you will get there! It won't happen over night, and you might not even notice it is changing much, but one day you will look back on some of your earlier work and be pleasantly suprised by the changes :)

(I also find that by crocheting your maths gets better! Weird, but true...)

Day 28: Do you do any other crafts besides crocheting? What are they, and did learning to crochet come before or after learning these other crafts?

2011-06-28T15:00:00.001+01:00

I've always been into making things ever since I was a toddler. I would collect old cereal boxes and Fairy liquid bottles etc to make stuff from.

One craft I really love, apart from crocheting, is sewing/painting canvas tote bags. Pretty specific I know lol! I went through a phase back in 2005/2006 of painting these Ebay bought calico bags and selling them. I once got about £11/$18 for one of my hand painted bags! It's a craft I have just recently taken up again, but now instead of buying the bags ready made, I bought a meter of calico fabric and am making my own, with lining.

I also like general sewing (I like making skirts, bags, cushion covers), jewellery making and even had a go at Felting. But no matter what I try, I always end up going back to crocheting!

PS - EssHaych has gone to Cyprus! So if I don't reply to your comments don't think I'm ignoring you, I'm just busy relaxing on a sun lounger! ;p The remainder of these 30 Days posts are pre-written :)

Day 27: How do you acquire most of your yarn? Online retailers, local yarn shops, swaps, or large chain craft stores? What’s your favorite?

2011-06-27T15:00:00.000+01:00

Most of the yarn I buy is from shops like Wilkinsons, QD, HobbyCraft, Pound Stretchers, my local market and basically anywhere I see nice yarn on my travels. I also found a great yarn shop in neigbouring Benfleet, which had the biggest selection of acrylic DK I've ever seen! So now when I want a certain colour I'm more than likely to go there.

I've also done the odd yarn swap with crafty friends, which is great as it's an oppertunity to get some (usually) American yarn. I know it's a sin to like Red Heart Super Saver, but I love it!

Day 26: Have you ever been a part, or wanted to be a part of a crochet-a-long? What was it? If not, why?

2011-06-26T15:00:00.000+01:00

I once attempted to take part in a 12 month Granny Square crochet along on Craftster. I got the first 2 months done then kind of forgot about it. I would like to do an amigurumi crochet along, I think that would be fun.

Day 25: Do you have a crocheting book or a place where you keep patterns, ideas, size measurements? Post a picture of it!

2011-06-25T15:00:00.000+01:00

Yes I do! Here they are...

The Hello Kitty book is my first pattern book, where I started writing down patterns I found online that I liked, and later my own patterns.
The 2 sketchbooks are for, obviously, my sketches for new ami's. 90% of my patterns start life as a doodle in one of these 2 books.

The Monsties Sketches and Pattern

Knitted Character Pattern

As you can see - I like to make doodles of what is going through my brain at the time first. I can leave the pictures there for ages without trying to make a pattern out of them, and often go back to them months later. I also write my rough patterns in this book alongside the doodles. I don't write down the proper wording, I just jot down how many stitches should be at the end of each row. Might not make much sense to others, but it will do for me!

Day 24: Have you ever made your own pattern or dyed your own yarn? How did it turn out?

2011-06-24T15:00:00.001+01:00

Haha, joke question?!

I've written some patterns, but never dyed yarn, though I would like to. My first 'published' pattern was Fun Egg Cosies back in about 2009...

... and my newest is going to be Morris Mouth - out next month :)

I like writting patterns, I find it really rewarding. I would much rather make up a pattern as I go along than follow one. Even when following my own patterns I usually change something about it, to make it different or to improve it. I am currently working on a new Sam The Teddy :)

Day 23: If you had the supplies (and patience) for it, what project would you start today?

2011-06-23T15:00:00.000+01:00

If I had the skill and patience, I would make this...

Tiered Frilled Dress

...or this...

Renaissance Tunic by Vashti Brahaclose

I have a problem with clothing. I've only ever completed 1 clothing item - a baby cardi some time last year. I think clothes projects take such alot of time I would get bored, so I don't even start them. Plus I know I'd be half way through crocheting it when I realised the sizing was all wrong :(

Just A Quick Post...

2011-06-22T22:40:00.004+01:00

Hi! I just wanted to interrupt the 30 Days Of Crochet to tell you all that I have been really busy this evening, writting PDF's for and listing 3 new patterns in my Etsy shop! 1 brand new ami and the return of 2 old, and improved, favs!

Morris Mouth

Kimiko The Kokeshi Doll

Tilly The Turtle

All are available in my Etsy Shop now, and are also included in the Complete Collection and Pick Any 3 Patterns :)

Hope you like them! :D

Day 22: Have you ever stricken someone off your to-crochet-for list because they didn’t appreciate/take care of your last crochet gift to them?

2011-06-22T15:00:00.000+01:00

No, I don't think I have! Most of the things, I think, have gone down well with family and friends, so I'm lucky really. I'd hate to make something and the person hated it, as I put alot of thought into what I make people for presents :)

Day 21: Do you crochet gifts for friends and family for the holidays or birthdays?

2011-06-21T15:00:00.000+01:00

I crochet for my Mum alot, and my Mum's side of the family. I like to make them things for Christmas - just something little every year :) And it's usually amigurumi.

This year though I have made a much larger item for my Aunt and cousin Clair. I'm not gonna say what it is just incase they read this post lol!

Day 20: Do you crochet in public? Was anyone offended/incredibly happy/curious that you were doing so?

2011-06-20T15:00:00.000+01:00

I've never crocheted in public! What with my OCD thing about cleanliness I would find it difficult to go from touching dirty public stuff (lift buttons, door handles, hand rails...) to whatever I was crocheting.

Having said that, I would really like to do so, so that I can wear the great t shirt on the right! :D

Day 19: Do you watch movies and/or listen to podcasts while crocheting? What are your favorite things to crochet to?

2011-06-19T15:00:00.000+01:00

I usually listen to music whilst I crochet. I have been listening to music through various devices (cassette - Mini Disk - CD - Ipod) since I was around 8, and it's something I very much enjoy. My hearing has suffered tremendously over the years as I wear headphones turned right up lol. So when I crochet I often listen to that. My favourites at the moment are:

The Darkness - Permission To Land

Lady Gaga - Born This Way

Foo Fighters - Wasting Light

30 Seconds To Mars - This Is War

All Time Low - Dirty Work

Day 18: Do you crochet English or American?

2011-06-18T15:00:00.000+01:00

Although I am English, I crochet American. It's just the way I learnt, from places like YouTube and NexStitch. Plus I actually think the American terms make more sense, really :)

Day 17: Have you ever had a project that you loved become ruined? What’s the story behind it?

2011-06-17T15:00:00.000+01:00

Not ruined exactly, but it can easily happen with me.

Some of you already know but I have OCD, and one of my 'things' is I can't touch things that have been on the floor. So if I drop a project on the floor I can't carry on with it, and if I drop a ball of yarn on the floor I usually throw it away. I've not lost too many projects due to this strangeness, but I have wasted alot of yarn. It's so fustrating, I hate it so much, but there's something in me that will just not touch it again, let alone make something with it :(

Day 16: Have you ever had a crocheting related injury?

2011-06-16T15:00:00.000+01:00

I don't think I've had an actual injury due to crocheting, but I get lots of little things that bug me.

I get alot of hand cramps, and also the tip of my right index finger has become all calloused (hard skin) due to the way I hold the hook. And I get alot of burns, like rope burns where the yarn is wrapped round my fingers for tension...

Ho-Hum! :p

Day 15: What was your least favorite pattern and why?

2011-06-15T15:00:00.000+01:00

My least favourite pattern was from a book called Amigurumi, by Lan-Anh & Josephine Wan that I bought last month.

I did the chicken pattern from the book, and there were about 6 errors, I'm not joking. I know the odd mistake is unavoidable, but 6?! And in a published book?!! I wasn't impressed :(

Day 14: What’s the worst yarn/fiber that you’ve worked with and why?

2011-06-14T15:00:00.001+01:00

I've worked with a lot of nasty white DK. Like I said last week, I hate thin yarn, and white always seems to come up extra thin. I think it's because all the bleaching it has to go through, I don't know. Some of the worst yarn I've used has actually been from some of my favourite brands, like Robin and Woolcraft. When I find a nice white yarn I buy loads of it!

Day 13: Do you have yarn that you love but can’t find a project for?

2011-06-13T15:00:00.000+01:00

I have a skein of Red Heart Super Saver Economy Yarn in what I believe is Ocean 0995 (I've lost the lable) that I recieved from OnePinkHippo in a yarn swap last year. It's a lovely yarn, but as I only have 1 skein of it, and I can't buy it over here, I am saving it for something nice. And not too big.

Day 12: Where do you keep your stash? Post pictures!

2011-06-12T15:00:00.000+01:00

I keep my stash in a mixture of places dotted around my room. So instead of loads of pictures, here's one big picture of my stash from back in March...

I have a big hold-all for my whites, blacks, browns, greys and beiges (I have no idea why I have so many beiges...); a flexible plastic bucket for my colours and an Ikea LP container for my multicoloured and Aran. I also at the moment have a big carrier bag at the end of my bed with some new yarn I bought recently, that I haven't sorted yet :)

(I must stop buying yarn. At my last count I counted 70 balls of the stuff...)

Day 11: Do you have a “Crochet Hero” or someone that is just way too awesome for their own good? Do share!

2011-06-11T15:00:00.000+01:00

I love Mr.Fox on Etsy!

I first fell in love with his designs after seeing these two...

Mr Bunnyford AND Horace Behr

I thought they were so original and creepy. Some of my other favourites include Merrick (The Elephant Man), Contemplating Amigurumicide and Rabbit Crochetfixion.

Check out the Etsy shop here
Deviant Art page here
Ravelry here

Day 10: Do you have a favorite pattern or designer?

2011-06-10T15:00:00.000+01:00

Here are some of my fav patterns

Luna Lovegood Scarf
Pinkleo

Hundred Yen Pouch
Melissa Mall

Urban Jungle Crocheted Slouchy Beanie
Vickie Howellclose

Octopode Pandemonium
PepperKittyclose

Everyday is a New Sweater Day
Rima Aranha

Day 9: What fiber or yarn do you love working with?

2011-06-09T15:00:00.000+01:00

I love the good old cheap acrylic DK yarn best!

Yes, I am a Cheap Hooker XD

My favourite brands are Robin, Yarnfair, Woolcraft New Fashion and Sirdar Bonus DK and Baby, and for bigger projects I use Robin and Wizz Aran weight. I like using acrylic DK because it can be quite thick, but still thin enough to make tiny toys from. I hate thin DK with a passion! DK is cheap too, so I can afford to buy loads of it at once, and it's also washable.

I have also recieved some lovely American yarn from my crafty friends, which include
Red Heart Super Saver, Caron Simply Soft and Sugar And Cream.

The Red Heart is lovely and thick (very thick compared to the DK) and I like to use it for bigger amigurumi as it works up quicker than the DK. The Simply Soft is still WW but is thinner, just like the DK, yet it has a lovely shine. I loved the Sugar and Cream cotton too as it's so soft and comes in some interesting colours.

Day 8: What’s your most challenging project?

2011-06-08T15:00:00.000+01:00

My most challenging project was probably my recreation of the Knit Domo Blythe Sweater.

I have a hard time crocheting clothes, so to crochet this from scratch was a challenge indeed. My main problems were the spacing between the sleeves and the increasing to make the massive collar. But after many tries and loads of frogging I got the right proportions. Kind of.

Day 7: Your least favorite?

2011-06-07T15:00:00.000+01:00

I try not to dislike anything I make, because I know I always try my best with whatever I'm crocheting. But I suppose my least favourite was a couple of teeth I made for my local dentist, like the one pictured.

I wasn't in a crocheting mood at the time, so I felt like I was kind of forcing myself to make them, which is never good. After making them I took a 2 month break from crocheting - it felt like really hard work.

Day 6: What is your favorite piece that you’ve crocheted?

2011-06-06T15:00:00.000+01:00

Tough question! I am very fond of the Eggberts...

... who were my first proper go at pattern writing. I was also very happy lately to have converted a knit pattern into crochet...

But I'd say my favourite piece(s) are the 2 Lilly Of The Valley flowers I made for my Nan's funeral.

My Mum kept one of them, and the other went in with my Nan. She always loved my crocheting, and it was lovely to make something that will be with her and my Granddad forever. Them flowers are my favourite - and the most important - things I've made.

Day 5: How long did it take from the time your learned how to crochet, to finish your first project?

2011-06-05T15:00:00.000+01:00

If you count from the time I made meters and meters of chains as a kid, it took me about 20 years lol! But from when I looked at them Youtube videos and learnt that way, it took me about a week to complete the tomato. After him, I made a chick in the same method and a small octopus within a couple of days.

Day 4: How did you learn how to crochet?

2011-06-04T15:00:00.000+01:00

My first encounter with crochet was when I was about 5, at my Nan and Grandads house. My Nan was a knitter, but also dabbled in crochet from time to time, and therefore had crochet hooks. She taught me how to make chains. I would sit for ages just making massive chains!

I got into crocheting proper in 2008 after seeing all the great amigurumi on Craftster.org. I looked through Youtube and found some great tutorials, including this one by WireMySoul. I also really liked mickeyssmail's tutes on making Granny Squares.

Another great website was Nexstitch, with easy directions and videos on all sorts of stitches and techniques.

Day 3: Do you have any other WIPs (works in progress)?

2011-06-03T15:00:00.001+01:00

I am also currently crocheting a black and white granny square blanket for a family member (I have about 4 squares done so far); a suprise for Coral and a custom order Jellyfish. I don't like having lots of stuff going on at the same time, but I find if I just do custom work alone it can grate abit.

Day 2: What is currently on your hook?

2011-06-02T15:00:00.001+01:00

Currently on my hook is a new monster!

I am using some lovely (and cheap!) Aran weight yarn I picked up at Pound Stretchers last month, and a 4mm hook. What you can see in the picture are his long, odd sized ears and the top of his head. I have been working on him on and off for about a month now, between custom orders. I hope to have him finished sometime this year *rolls eyes*

PS - Happy Birthday Mum! -x-

Day 1: What was your first finished project?

2011-06-01T15:00:00.000+01:00

My first finished crochet project was a little tomato amigurumi back in 2008.

I didn't have a pattern as such - I just copied what WireMySoul was doing on Youtube. Then added eyes, mouth and felt leaves, because I didn't know how to crochet them yet.

Looking back now I can see there are many mistakes, including crocheting in the back loops only, plus it's 'inside out'. But I was mega pleased with him at the time, and I still have him in my room!

30 Days Of Crochet

2011-05-30T19:31:00.004+01:00

Recently I have been running low on things to blog about, so I think it's about time for another Meme!

Inspired by OnePinkHippos's 30 Days Of Knitting, I will be doing a 30 Days Of Crochet all through June. Below I will list the links to all the different days :)

Enjoy!

30 Days Of Crochet Meme

Day 1: What was your first finished project?

Day 2: What is currently on your hook?

Day 3: Do you have any other WIPs (works in progress)?

Day 4: How did you learn how to crochet?

Day 5: How long did it take from the time your learned how to crochet, to finish your first project?

Day 6: What is your favorite piece that you’ve crocheted?

Day 7: Your least favorite?

Day 8: What’s your most challenging project?

Day 9: What fiber or yarn do you love working with?

Day 10: Do you have a favorite pattern or designer?

Day 11: Do you have a “Crochet Hero” or someone that is just way too awesome for their own good? Do share!
Day 12: Where do you keep your stash? Post pictures!

Day 13: Do you have yarn that you love but can’t find a project for?

Day 14: What’s the worst yarn/fiber that you’ve worked with and why?

Day 15: What was your least favorite pattern and why?

Day 16: Have you ever had a crocheting related injury?

Day 17: Have you ever had a project that you loved become ruined? What’s the story behind it?

Day 18: Do you crochet English or American?

Day 19: Do you watch movies and/or listen to podcasts while crochet? What are your favorite things to crochet to?

Day 20: Do you crochet in public? Was anyone offended/incredibly happy/curious that you were doing so?

Day 21: Do you crochet gifts for friends and family for the holidays or birthdays?

Day 22: Have you ever stricken someone off your to-crochet-for list because they didn’t appreciate/take care of your last crochet gift to them?

Day 23: If you had the supplies (and patience) for it, what project would you start today?

Day 24: Have you ever made your own pattern or dyed your own yarn? How did it turn out?

Day 25: Do you have a crocheting book or a place where you keep patterns, ideas, size measurements? Post a picture of it!

Day 26: Have you ever been a part, or wanted to be a part of a crochet-a-long? What was it? If not, why?

Day 27: How do you acquire most of your yarn? Online retailers, local yarn shops, swaps, or large chain craft stores? What’s your favorite?

Day 28: Do you do any other crafts besides crochetin? What are they, and did learning to crochet come before or after learning these other crafts?

Day 29: Do you have any tips, or things that you’ve learned from crocheting?

Day 30: What’s your name on Ravelry? If you don’t have a Ravelry account, why?

Etsy Friday

2011-05-27T03:00:00.000+01:00

Currently Listening To: Highway Unicorn - Lady Gaga/ Drinking: Water/ Feeling: Fit!

The return of Etsy Friday, bought to you with the help of One Pink Hippo & Mosaic Maker :D

1. 23rd Psalm Miniture Book 2. Now Panic and Freak Out T Shirt 3. Heart Eyepatch 4. Donutzie Dress 5. Sssnake Ssssuprise Hat 6. 1/6 Doll Blue Boots 7. Steampunk Leather Headband 8. Laughing Bag 9. Blythe Crochet Hat

This Week I

2011-05-22T17:17:00.003+01:00

Currently Watching: Deal Or No Deal/ Drinking: Pepsi Max/ Feeling: Groggy

... Went swimming - twice!

... Found my string doll collection! (Photos to come...)

... Drunk alot of Pepsi Max

... Bought my Mum and Dad a new laptop

... Recieved new clothes for Zoe

... Watched Black Swan

... Sent a package off to Jills ;)

... Went to Ikea

... Looked into buying a new bike

... Felt happier :)

EssHaych Gets Fit

2011-05-20T21:27:00.004+01:00

Currently Listening To: Many A Horror - Biffy Clyro/ Making: Bear Ear Headbands/ Reading: The Lovely Bones - Alice Sebold

Sorry for the lack of updates this past week, I've been up to my eye balls in custom orders and haven't had much time for blogging! I am currently in the middle of making 20 bear ear headbands for a lady I met at the Southend Craft Fair, and I have just this evening completed a Girl Guide leader doll for an Etsy customer...

She was a challenge! Dolls usually are for me - I finish the head and body in one sitting, then sometimes take about a week and a half to do just the arms and legs. But I got all of this one done in just under a week :) I hope the lady I made it for likes it!

Also this week, as the title suggests, I've been getting fit!! I know, hard to believe lol It started last week when a new Sports Village opened here in Basildon. It has about every type of sporting facility you could imagine - a pool, gym, courts, stadium, loads of halls for sports and gymnastics etc. So I thought I'd have a go, first at swimming.

I was a little nervous - I haven't been to a public pool since I was 13 :S But once I was in there it was all ok, and I actually managed to swim abit! Only about 3 meters at a time, but it's a start (I'm so unfit, seriously). I went again today with my Mum, who also enjoys a good swim. She's much better at it than me. I also plan on joining the gym haha! I even bought a new polo shirt and shorts today so I have something decent to wear! I don't know how long all this can last...

Aaaalso this week I am starting to teach my Mum how to use the computer. She already knows abit, but this week she and my Dad were treated to a new laptop, so obviously want to know how to use it properly. I know she checks out this blog, so 'Hello Mum!'

Hope everyone has a nice weekend :)

Friends, Old And New

2011-05-13T19:53:00.005+01:00

Currently Listening To: Nothing/ Drinking: Water/ Feeling: Lucky!

Here's a picture of Zoe with a few friends that I took just before the Southend Craft & Vintage Fair. I thought it was too cute not to photograph!! Most of this lot don't live with me anymore, but I am very happy they found loving new homes :) You can see more photos of Zoe and her adventures in my Flickr Photostream.

In other news, I am so lucky, I just managed to get 2 tickets to see The Darkness' London comeback gig at Shepherds Bush next month!

Weeee!! Like I've mentioned before, I'm a massive TD fan, and was over the moon to hear they were reforming. They were the first band I ever saw live, and I have many fond memories of them. It's gonna be HUGE! :D

This Week I...

2011-05-07T23:57:00.005+01:00

Currently Listening To: Swing Swing - The All American Rejects/ Feeling: Content/ Making: Secret Monster ;)

... Found out Pound Stretchers Extra sells some fab (and cheap!) yarn

... Celebrated my Un-Birthday! (Seriously, I have an official Un-Birthday that I get presents for!)

... Recieved some cute denim clothes for Zoe from Etsy

... Visited my local Church

... Had a horrible summer cold

... Have been crafting for Coral ;)

... Got let down by Kings. Again.

... Realised how over weight I was :(

... Enjoyed some great football (soccor)

... Bought a new printer

Southend Craft And Vintage Fair 2011

2011-05-02T20:23:00.006+01:00

Currently Listening To: My Poor Brain - Foo Fighters/ Drinking: Pepsi Max/ Wondering: How Corals deboxing went!

Yesterday I took part in my 5th craft fair, in Southend at the Now, Voyager Summer Craft and Vintage Fair! Here are some pictures of my table :)

It was a great day, and 70% of my stuff found new homes, which I was really happy about! I talked to one lady who bought an ami chicken, who said she was there especially to see me, which was lovely to hear! There were also people who remembered me from last year, and a little girl bought my Ted replica (far right-bottom of the first picture). She was walking round the fair with him under her arm, which is how I used to carry my Ted! I'm so glad he found a loving home :)

Also, a couple of days before the fair my Mum found this in the local paper...

Yay! Glad to see amigurumi getting some press attention! :D

I'd like to say a massive Thank You to Felicity and everyone at Now, Voyager for letting me take part in the fair, and for their continuing support. I always have fun at your fairs and would love to take part again, so keep me in mind!

This Week I...

2011-05-01T18:14:00.005+01:00

Currently Listening To: Best Of You - Foo Fighters/ Consuming: McDonalds/ Feeling: Groggy

... Took part in my 5th craft fair (just got back, photos to come!)

... Re-discovered my love of the mighty Foo Fighters <3

... Got a weird sore throat/ear thing

... Took loads of photos of Zoe

... Watched the Royal Wedding, and actually enjoyed it!

... Scoffed a ton of chocolate, then...

... Started my diet again!

... Have been thinking about doing another blog giveaway (any takers?)

... Created the Scrap Monsters, one of my fav amis!

... Bought yet more cacti (I now have about 10)

Little Mouth, Summer Fair and a Royal Wedding

2011-04-28T19:12:00.008+01:00

Currently Listening To: Stranger Things Have Happened - Foo Fighters/ Drinking: Blue Charge/ Feeling: Hyper!

Loooong post today!

First up: Remember Morris Mouth? Well I needed some testers for his pattern before I can put him in my Etsy shop, and I got loads of takers from my Facebook Fan Page! Here are a couple of the Morris' made!

Teeny Tiny Morris!! This little guy is only 4'' tall, including hat, and was made by Linda. He was made with craft thread! *Squee!*

This cute Morris is by Courtney, and is named Maurissa! I love the use of buttons for her right eye! Also in the picture, for scale, is Courtneys lovely cat Bella!

Thank you both for testing Morris for me, you did a fab job!

Ready for the Royal wedding?! It's been mad on the telly over here in England. People have been camping outside the palace and the cathedral for weeks. We're even having a street party in my area lol I only live 30mins away from central London, so I could go and have a look, but it's gonna be sooooo packed. Might just watch it on BBC from the comfort of my house instead and do some crocheting lol!

But I do think they make a lovely couple, and I wish them all the best for many happy years together :)

Alllllso this weekend I have the Now, Voyager Craft and Vintage fair coming up! I am mostly done with all the crocheting, just need to price up and everything. You can checkout the fair and all the stall holders (including me!!) at the official blog here!

Hope everyone has a great weekend! :D

Scrap Monster

2011-04-26T16:17:00.005+01:00

Currently Listening To: Deal Or No Deal/ Happy About: New Cacti!/ Angry About: Kings totally messing me about >:(

Got super fed up of crocheting for the craft stall last night. Just wanted to make something that didn't require much attention, counting or anything. So I did abit of freeforming and came up with this little guy...

I call him The Scrap Monster because, well, he's made of scrap yarn. Apart from the white, which is from a new ball. He also has odd eyes because they are what I had left over from other projects - he's a total mismash! He was fun to make up as I went along, and I'd love to make more with other scraps I have :)

This Week I...

2011-04-24T19:27:00.006+01:00

Currently Listening To: Swing Swing - The All American Rejects/ Crafting: A Dark Blue Flumplebee/ Loving: All the football (soccor) that's on at the moment :)

... Made my first proper Blythe dress for Zoe

... Been frustrated with my Freeview (does anyone elses TV go weird in the hot weather?!)

... Got a new cactus from my Mum

... Getting organised for the Craft and Vintage fair next week

... Willed Fernando Torres to get his first Chelsea goal. And he did ;)

... Enjoyed my first bit of chocolate in 40 day!!

... Went shopping with my Dad in town and bought my Mum a family of wooden ducks (they're sooo cute!)

... Recieved a handmade keyring from my cousins daughter Katie

... Cleared out my wardrobe

... Treated my family to a Chinese take away :p

Introducing Zoe

2011-04-18T21:51:00.004+01:00

Currently Listening To: The telly downstairs.../ Drinking: Pepsi Max/ Considering: Crocheting a mutant cactus

I was woken up last Wednesday by my Mum, saying I had a package waiting downstairs. I got up and found it was my Blythe doll, Zoe, all the way from Hong Kong!

Isn't she lovely?! I was very wary about her to start with - I've heard horrible stories about fake Blythes, so checked her over. But all seemed well, Thank God! :)

Like all Blythe dolls, she has 4 different colour sets of eyes...

The blue ones are my fav :)

I of course wanted to crochet her something straight away, and after a few days of fails I managed to wing this Domo sweater, after being shown a great photo on Flickr...

Yay! She needs some tights, her legs look all cold!!

So that's Zoe. She is very excited about her sister Coral in America being opened soon! Roll on May 6th!

What I've Been Making

2011-04-16T17:15:00.002+01:00

Currently Listening To: One - Metallca/ Drinking - Blue Charge (cheap Red Bull :P)/ Making - Blythe Jumper

Got a bumper issue of What I've Been Making this week! First off I made this Mutant Cactus, he's (they're) number 105 :) The tall thin guy has a special eye and is crying, bless him! I'm gonna keep this one me thinks :)

This guy is the very first Morris Mouth I made. He lives with me :)

Another Mini Pillow Pal, this time for the craft fair I am taking part in in Southend on May 1st. While I'm in Southend I'm gonna get more of them cool buttons I use for their eyes, they're fab!

This is Lulu, my new doll pattern :) She's got a big head and a tiny body, and curley hair. I made the hair by cutting the yarn into little strips, then seperating it. The result is thin, curley hair! Pattern to follow...

I made these 2 for a fellow DA member last week, was nice to make a turtle again, haven't made one in ages!

And last but not least, an Alien Bunny in a yellow hoodie lol! I made him for my swap partner in the Amigurumi Addiction 2 Swap over on Craftster. He is made of baby dk yarn and the hoddie is made of Supersoft Aran, the same stuff the Mini Pillow Pals are made of. He also has wire in his arms and legs, so he is posable. My partner loved him!

Wow, alot of stuff! I'm still really busy with it all, was up until 3am last night crocheting. And I still have to post pictures of my girl Zoe, but we haven't had an oppertunity for a proper photo shoot yet. She got a mini guitar yesterday! It's a flying V! Weeeee!!

Hope everyones having a great weekend! :D

Morris Mouth

2011-04-14T20:05:00.003+01:00

I have a new ami to introduce to you, he's name is Morris Mouth!

Isn't he fun?!! He came into being back in February when I got an email from the lovely Mika, who was an Etsy customer of mine. She said she had some designs and generously said I could use them to base some ami's around. Here is her concept sketch...

The major problem I had with him was the mouth. It dips in in the middle, so I needed to make a kind of oval bowl. It was one of the most complicated patterns I've written, but I think he was worth it :) I also added a top hat and a cane lol!

Here's a picture of me holding him, for scale...

This version of Morris went to live with Mika. For her contributions I am sending her the ami's made from the patterns. So that means there will be more to come!! At the moment I am mega busy with crafting for a craft and vintage fair I have coming up in May (did I tell you about that?!) so I don't have alot of time to write patterns at the moment. But when I get a break I will be working on..... lets just say it's a twist on an existing animal :)

I hope you like Morris Mouth! I will be putting the pattern for him up in my Etsy shop some time this month, he will be $3/£1.88 :D

Oh, and my Blythe doll arrived this week!! I called her Zoe, and will be posting pictures of her soon :)

4 Layered Crochet Flower

2011-04-12T16:16:00.005+01:00

Here's the long awaited crocheted flower pattern I've been promising! I hope you like it! It' made of 4 layers; 2 layers are crocheted together then sewn to the other 2. Hope that makes sense lol If you have any problems let me know!

You Will Need:
• DK/Light WW Yarn in 2 colours
• Crochet hook (I used a 3.75mm [F] )
• Stitch Marker
• Embroidery/yarn needle
• Button (optional)
• Brooch Pin (optional)

Abbreviations
• Ch - Chain Stitch
• Sc - Single Crochet
• St/Sts - Stitch/Stitches
• Slst - Slip Stitch
• Hdc – Half Double Crochet
• Dc – Double Crochet
• ** - Marks a group of stitches to be repeated

Gauge
No gauge, just keep your stitches nice and tight to avoid gaps in your work

Finished Size
6cm’s wide (approx.) using a 3.75mm (F) hook and DK yarn.

Other Info
• Although this isn’t amigurumi, you still work in continuous rounds; in a spiral, unless otherwise stated. Don’t join at the end of a row; just keep going
• Use stitch markers or a piece of scrap yarn to mark the start of every round. Replace at the start of the next round as you go along. This will help you keep track of where you started, and saves a lot of time if things go wrong!
• I write my patterns in American terms, so Sc means Single Crochet; Dc means Double Crochet etc
• The number at the end of each round is the number of stitches you should now have
• Using a thicker yarn than DK/bigger hook than 3.75mm (F) will result in the toy being a considerably different size to that shown.

4 Layered Crochet Flower

Part 1 - Layer One

Colour 1

1. Ch 2, Sc 5 into 2nd Ch from hook, or Magic Ring 5 (5)
2. Inc around (10)
3. *Ch 5, Slst to 2nd Sc from hook* Repeat 4 more times
4. *(Sc 1, Hdc 2, Dc 2, Hdc 2, Sc 1) into loop made by Ch 5 space, Slst to previous rows Slst* Repeat 4 more times
*Finish Off, Weave In End*

Part 1 - Layer Two

Attach colour 2 to one of the spare Sc’s in between the petals (from the back of the piece)

1. *Ch 6, Slst to the Sc in the middle of the next petal* Repeat 4 more times
2. *(Sc 1, Hdc 2. Dc 3. Hdc 2. Sc 1) in loop made by Ch 6 space, Slst to previous rows Slst* Repeat 4 more times
*Finish Off, Weave In End*

Part 2 – Layer 3

Colour 1

1. Ch 2, Sc 5 into 2nd Ch from hook, or Magic Ring 5 (5)
2. Inc around (10)
3. *Sc, Inc* around (15)
4. *Sc 2, Inc* around (20)
5. *Ch 6, Slst into 4th Sc from hook* Repeat 4 more times
6. *(Sc 1, Hdc 2, Dc 3, Hdc 2, Sc 1) in loop made by Ch 6 space, Slst to previous rows Slst* Repeat 4 more times
*Finish Off, Weave In End*

Part 2 – Layer 4

Attach Colour 2 to the Sc in the middle of one of the petals (From the back)

1. *Ch 7, Slst to middle of next petal* Repeat 4 more times
2. *( Sc 1, Hdc 2, Dc 4, Hdc 2, Sc 1) in loop made by Ch 7 space, Slst to previous rows Slst* Repeat around
*Finish Off, Leave Long Tail*

Assembley
. Place the smaller flower piece on top of the bigger one, and using the length of yarn, sew the pieces together.
. You might also want to sew a button to the middle of the flower, or/and add a brooch pin to the back

Done!

I hope you get on ok with the pattern – it’s not one of the most straight forward ones I’ve written lol!

Let's Try Again

2011-04-07T18:32:00.005+01:00

Right, I'm gonna try and post something properly today. If it doesn't work, I appologise :) To start off with I got a great package from my Amigurumi Addiction swap partner, Sewarty, on Craftster!

A Yeti!! Yay!! He's so lovely! Check out his little nipples lol! I love him!

I also got some yarn, sweeties, a crochet heart and beads!

Thank you so much Sewarty! I love everything! Also this week I took the plunge and bought my first Blythe!

She's a Simply Thumpty Thump - I don't know what I'm going to call her yet though :) I've wanted one for about a year now, but never went ahead and bought one. But after seeing Jills Simply Bubble Boom though I got so jealous I just had to get one lol! So alot of Thanks has to go to Jill!! :D I can't wait to make some cute clothes!!

Still Angry...

2011-04-04T18:20:00.003+01:00

Why is Blogger doing this?! I still can't post properly :( Anyone have any idea about what the problem is?!! Grrrrrr >:( I'll keep trying...

Angry...

2011-04-01T22:08:00.002+01:00

I was gonna post the flower pattern tonight, but Blogger is being stupid and not letting me seperate paragraphs >:( Hopefully I'll post it tomorrow. Have a nice weekend!

Rainy London and An Etsy Feature

2011-03-30T18:22:00.009+01:00

Currently: Listening To: The Trooper - Iron Maiden / Drinking: Coke Zero / Making: Arms and Legs

One of my crochet patterns has been featured in an Etsy Treasury today! Entitled Apple Jackets; it features, well, Apples in jackets lol! Check it out here - they're all so cute!

Big Thanks to Kristen for including me in your fab treasury! Check out Kristen's fab blog here too! :D

Also today I went on a little day trip on my own to London. What with this trainee dental nurse job I have coming up in June I figured I'd better get used to travelling to and around London on my own.

I was a bit nervous about going - you know, when you don't have to do something you don't really want to do it? Well it was abit like that. But I did go! I went to Tower Bridge to get some tacky tourist postcards. Then travelled on the Tube to Embankment to my favourite sushi shop, Wasabi. I also visited Trafalar Square and Piccadilly Circus on my way through to Chinatown to pick up some wasabi peas lol! Oh, and I bought 30 postcards in Paperchase. They were 60p each :(

It of course started raining, when I was in Chinatown. My umbrella failed me spectacularly, so I had to walk back through to Embankment station in the pouring rain wearing my thin MCR hoodie. I wasn't happy!! But over all it was a good trip. Next time I think I'm gonna go up to Camden Market. Wish there were some good yarn shops in London. Anyone know of any?

Flowers, A Blanket and Uniloomph Art

2011-03-29T20:14:00.005+01:00

Currently: Listening To: Feel Good Drag - Anberlin /Reading: Girl With The Dragon Tattoo - Stieg Larsson /Making: Secret Ami Project!

I recently finished my first big granny square blanket! It's for a relative, but I don't think they check this blog out so I can post a picture here :)

Took about a month and a half, not as long as I thought it would. It was fun - I made it whilst watching tv in the living room with my parents in the evenings :) Lots of Coronation Street and Eastenders I'm afraid :( Secondly here's one of the flowers I did last week

I tried to felt it by putting it in the washing machine, but it didn't really do anything. I have a pattern for this, which I'll post soon :) Last but not least I got a lovely drawing from my Etsy pal Nayoko! Yay!

Isn't it great?! It shows Stuart the Uniloomph saying goodbye to his twin Ezekiel, who was sent to live in America with Nayoko last month. Notice the black patches on his feet?! It's called 'The Reason We Ship Them In Boxes' :D Thank you Nayoko! We miss Ezekiel!!

This Week I...

2011-03-27T15:00:00.001+01:00

I stole this great idea from my good pal Jillie over at One Pink Hippo. Check out her blog, it’s full of yarny goodness!!

This Week I...

... Designed some new crochet flowers

... Worried about my brother who went on holiday to Poland

... Took a lot of painkillers

... Played Guitar Hero too much

... Was sent some great ami designs from Nayoko

... Continued crocheting my second monster granny square blanket

... Used my new Shape-Up flip flops (They killed my legs and feet!)

... Started reading The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo

... Received about 7 postcards through Swap Bot

... Did alot of walking

Free Pattern: Mini Pillow Pals!

2011-03-25T19:59:00.004Z

You lucky things - 2 free patterns in 1 month lol! Here's my latest offering, Mini Pillow Pals!

You can use them as, obviously, mini pillows; as stress ball type things; as pin cushions or just as a little friend!

They are really simple to make, it's just a little rectangular pouch that's stuffed and sewn up at the bottom. It's not even really a pattern; just directions.

I hope you enjoy! Like always - any problems just comment below :)

Mini Pillow Pals

You Will Need:
• Aran /WW Yarn in 2 different colours
• Crochet hook (I used a 4mm [G] )
• Fiberfill or other stuffing
• Various Buttons
• Stitch Marker
• Embroidery/yarn needle
• Embroidery Thread

Abbreviations
• Ch - Chain Stitch
• Sc - Single Crochet
• St/Sts - Stitch/Stitches
• Slst - Slip Stitch
• Inc (Increase) - 2 Sc into 1 Sts
• Dec (Decrease) - 1 Sc over 2 Sts
• ** - Marks a group of stitches to be repeated until the round is completed

Gauge
No gauge, just keep your stitches nice and tight to avoid gaps in your work

Finished Size
4.5’’ tall (approx.) using a 4mm (G) hook and Aran yarn.

Other Info
• As this is amigurumi, work in continuous rounds; in a spiral, unless otherwise stated. Don’t join at the end of a row; just keep going
• Use stitch markers or a piece of scrap yarn to mark the start of every round. Replace at the start of the next round as you go along. This will help you keep track of where you started, and saves a lot of time if things go wrong!
• I write my patterns in American terms, so Sc means Single Crochet; Dc means Double Crochet etc
• The number at the end of each round is the number of stitches you should now have

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Head/Body (Working from the top down)
1. Ch 13 (13Ch)
2. Sc in each Ch to beginning. In 1st Ch, Sc 3. Continue to Sc on the opposite side of the Ch. In the last Ch Sc 2 (26 Sc)
3. Inc, Sc 10, Inc 3, Sc 10, Inc 2 (32 Sc)
4 - 14. Sc around (32)

*Sew face to top of the body*

15 – 28. Sc around (32)
29. Dec 2, Sc 10, Dec 3, Sc 10, Dec (26)
*Finish off, leave long tail for sewing*

Assembly
• Stuff the pouch you have just made and sew the opening shut.
• Take your contrasting colour yarn and cut into approx. 3’’ strips. Use this method to attach the hair.
• Sew on additional buttons if desired.

Done!!

How easy was that lol!! I hope you enjoy your Mini Pillow Pals!

Mini Ted For Charity

2011-03-19T17:45:00.003Z

I completed a whole ami in one evening on Thursday!! I made a mini/modified version of my Ted Pattern.

He's only small! I made him for the Knit A Square charity that I crochet for. He will be sent off to South Africa in the up coming months :) I plan on making more Mini Teds to send off, they're simple and quick to make so I reckon I could have quite a few made up in a short period of time :D

New Camera, New 'Do

2011-03-17T16:27:00.005Z

Free Pattern: Big Mouth Octopus!

2011-03-14T19:42:00.006Z

Been a while since I put a free pattern on here!! You might remember my earlier post about Oppie The Octopus. Well I typed up the pattern and thought I'd share :)

This pattern can be either easy or pretty difficult, depending on how you would like to make him. You can choose to sew on sequins and beads if you like, or leave him plain. You might like also to make the tentacles all in one hit, as one piece, or you can use the simpler option of doing them one by one. Both methods are written out below :)

Alot of the credit to this pattern must go to the picture that inspired me to make it, which was Sugar Coated's 'Octopus' on Ravelry, from the Chinese pattern I Am Octopus :)

Any problems, comment below! Have fun!

Big Mouth Octopus

You Will Need:
• Crochet Hook (I used 3.5mm, E)
• Double Knit/ Sport Weight/ Light Worsted Weight Yarn in Mint and White
• 12mm Safety Eyes
• Stitch Markers Or Piece Of Scrap Yarn
• Fiber fill Or Other Stuffing
• Curved Needle (Optional)
• Sequins and Seed Beads/Small Beads (Optional)
• Cotton/Thread (Optional)
• Fine Sewing Needle (Optional)

Abbreviations
• St/Sts – Stitch/Stitches
• Ch - Chain Stitch
• Sc - Single Crochet
• Tr – Triple Crochet
• Slst - Slip Stitch
• Inc (Increase) - 2 Sc into 1 St
• Dec (Decrease) – 1 Sc across 2 Sts
• ** - Marks a group of stitches to be repeated until the round is completed

Gauge
No gauge, just keep your stitches nice and tight to avoid gaps in your work

Finished Size
3.5 inches high (approx.) using a 3.5mm (E) hook

Other Info
• As this is amigurumi, work in continuous rounds; in a spiral, unless otherwise stated. Don’t join at the end of a row; just keep going
• Use stitch markers or a piece of scrap yarn to mark the start of every round. Replace at the start of the next round as you go along. This will help you keep track of where you started, and saves a lot of time if things go wrong!
• I write my patterns in American terms, so Sc means Single Crochet; Dc means Double Crochet etc
• The number at the end of each round is the number of stitches you should now have
• Although I have used certain colours for this ami please feel free to use whichever colours you like!
• Using a thicker yarn than DK/bigger hook than 3.75mm (F) will result in the toy being a considerably different size to that shown.

Head/Body

1. Ch 2, Sc 6 into 2nd Ch from hook, or Magic Ring 6 (6)
2. Inc around (12)
3. *Sc, Inc* around (18)
4. *Sc 2, Inc* around (24)
5. *Sc 3, Inc* around (30)
6. *Sc 4, Inc* around (36)
7. *Sc 5, Inc* around (42)
8. *Sc 6, Inc* around (48)
9. *Sc 7, Inc* around (54)
10. *Sc 8, Inc* around (60)
11-16. Sc around (60)

You can take this opportunity to sew on the beads and sequins, before it gets too difficult to reach the inside top of the head. It’s very fiddly and time consuming, so you may want to leave this step out. But I think it makes him look all special lol! I used a mixture of sequins and glass seed beads, though any small beads would look fab!

When you’ve done all the sewing, continue with…

17-20. Sc around (60)

You can stop here again and add some individual seed beads lower on the head, if you wanted him to look all fancy hehe!

21. *Sc 8, Dec* around (54)
22. *Sc 7, Dec* around (48)

The head closes up pretty rapidly from here, so you’re gonna want to stuff it whilst you go.

23. Dec around (24)

If using Safety Eyes, attach now, half way up the head.

24. Dec around (12)
25. Dec around (6)
*Finish Off, Weave In End*

There are 2 ways of doing the tentacles. You can do them all in one piece, which is the way I did it because it leaves a nicer finish on the bottom of the body, or you can do them individually. Here’s how to do them in one piece first…

Tentacles (One Piece)

1. Ch 2, Sc 8 into 2nd Ch from hook, or Magic Ring 8 (8)
2. Inc around (16)
3. *Sc 1, Inc* around (24)

WARNING - This gets VERY fiddly/annoying!! You’re been warned!!

4. Ch 15, 6 Tr in 2nd Ch from hook; 7 Tr in each of the next 7 Ch’s; 1 Tr in each of the remaining 3 Ch’s

When you’re back to the beginning of the Ch, Skip 2 Sc and Slst into the 3rd Sc of the base circle
Repeat Round 4, 7 more times to make 8 tentacles.
*Finish Off, Leave Long Tail*

If you don’t fancy doing it that way, you can do them individually…

Tentacles (One by One)

Ch 18, 6 Tr in 4th Ch from the hook; 7 Tr in each of the next 10 Ch’s; 1 Tr into each of the remaining 4 Ch’s
*Finish Off, Leave Long Tail*

Repeat 7 more times (or however many you’d like!)

Mouth

Ch 15, Join with a Slst, Ch 1
Sc 18 into the loop, Slst to beginning Ch 1. Ch 1
Sc 18 around, Slst to the Ch 1 at the beginning of the round
*Finish Off, Leave Long Tail*

Assembly

• To make the tentacles abit more curled up, you can give them a twist Clockwise (It may be Anticlockwise if you’re left handed, I’m not too sure :S)
• Sew the tentacle piece/the individual tentacles to the bottom of the body.
• Arrange the mouth in whichever shape you would like (Have fun! It could be a perfect ‘O’, smiley, sad…) on the front of the head, and sew in place.

Tada! You’re done!

I hope you liked the pattern! I’d love to see any Octopi made with this pattern! Also, again, you can comment below if you have any problems with it :)

Enjoy!

Oppie The Octopus

2011-03-12T21:48:00.004Z

A while ago I found a great Optopus pattern on Ravelry...

I Am Octopus
Alameda

... The only problem was that the pattern was only available in a Chinese book, which I have no means of getting. Plus I also liked the thought of it being quite big, with curley tentacles. So I got out my 3.5mm hook and some DK yarn and in a few hours had this geezer...

I call him Oppie! He is very similar to the Chinese book version, with the same mouth and sequins, but I also added some extra seed beads to his head and the curley tentacles.

I'm happy with the way he came out! I am planning on putting the pattern for him on my blog sometime next week, so you can too make your own Oppie! Yay!

I also made another Mini Pillow Pal...

... she hasn't got a name yet. I too will be putting the pattern on here soon :) Yay for free patterns!!

I'd also like to say my thoughts and prayers are with the people of Japan that are effected by the horrendous earthquake and tsunami that hit yesterday. I couldn't believe the destruction caused :'( Makes all this talk of amigurumi seem stupid some how :(

Long Overdue Pressie Post

2011-03-04T17:36:00.006Z

Wow, why has it taken me over a month to upload these pictures?! Cos I'm lazy, probably.

Anyways, this is the fabtastic Christmas and Birthday package I recieved from my crochet pal Jill over at One Pink Hippo :D

Behold!!

First there was a lovely card from Jill and her girls Arwen and Susie (the words made my Mum go 'Aaaaawwww!!'); a red rubber ducky and a soapy sponge block in the shape of a gingerbread man! I have yet to use this - I'm thinking it will grow when you put water to it?! And a cute Christmas bag!

A pair of socks from the famous Forever 21 *yay!*, some mega cute knee high toe socks (they are very comfy!) and some Spanish rice!

2 of my favourite things! A tiny knit sweater! And a lovely pot holder in the same colourful yarn (I take it it's a pot holder - we don't really have them over here so I'm guessing by all the others I've seen on Ravelry!!).

And last but not least a mini Zhu Zhu hamster plushie!! *Squee!* Plus a kawaii necklace from Claires (I wasn't aware you had Claires over there!!) Not pictured, because I started using it as soon as I opened the box, is a great antibacterial hand cream called Sweet Pea. I love this stuff - I use it ever night before I go to bed, it smells so nice and clean!

THANK YOU SO MUCH for all the wonderful things Jill - I'm lucky to have such a great friend! Be on the look out in the post for a parcel! :D

Timmy, A New Friend and The Stash

2011-03-01T23:15:00.005Z

I crocheted my first ami of the year last week! Yay! Here's Timmy...

I crocheted Timmy for a customer on Etsy. She wanted a Uniloomph just like Stuart, my pattern Uniloomph, but also requested he had hooves (hoofs?!). So I crocheted the bottom of Timmy's feet black! I like him, and making him has given me new enthusiasm for amigurumi, which can't be a bad thing!

So I decided to finish an ami I started late last year...

I call him a Mini Pillow Pal, because he's a mini pillow and he's very friendly lol! I wanted to use this new Aran yarn I bought from Southend, so used a bigger hook than usual. I also used one of many cute buttons I bought in the same shop for the middle of his eye, and gave him pink hair. I was originally thinking about giving him arms and legs, but decided against it as I thought he looked cute enough. If anyone's interested I can write the pattern up and post it on here - it's super simple.

Oh, and I sorted out my yarn stash today. I counted over 60 skeins, then found I had another 12 hiding in a bag...

This obsession has got to stop - I bought a 35 litre bucket today to keep it in, along with the existing hold-all and big fabric box I already have, and it's taking over my room lol!

Kawaii Krazy

2011-02-23T20:40:00.004Z

I've gone mad on Ebay.co.uk recently, and spent too much money :( I've bought some super kawaii things though, and thought I'd share!

Tensh Neko Bag
Coffee-Avenue

This is gonna be my 'work bag' when I start at Kings in June!! I love the colours!

Kraft Smiley Face Notebook
RikyandNina

I've started hoarding cute notepads lately, so...

Elephant Paperclips
AmazonHK

There were so many different animals to choose from, I was sat there for ages trying to decided between these, the chick ones, whale ones and the alligator ones lol!

Animal Nail Clippers
Smucouple1997

I ordered the brown bear ones on the far left! I recieved these the other day - they are fab!

Cloud Earphone Cord Organiser
Smucouple1997

I bought a blue one for me, and a pink one for my Mum lol! This seller has so many kawaii things I also bought a monkey shower cap and a snap shut purse!!

Cuteness!! :D Most of this stuff is coming from Asia, so I'm gonna have to wait for it :( But it'll be worth it! I <3>

Been A Baaaad Blogger

2011-02-18T14:47:00.004Z

Wow, how long has it been since I updated this blog?!! So sorry for not being around, to tell you the truth I've been having a craft break since the new year, and haven't made one single amigurumi *shock!*. I also wanted to spend some time away from my computer, so I shut my Etsy shop. But it's back open now, but I'm still not taking custom orders at the mo :)

So, how is everyone?! I hope you're all well! You might wonder what I've been up to as I haven't been crocheting, well I've been collecting (and buying LOADS of) postcards!

Last year I joined Swap-Bot and Postcrossing in the hope of starting a small postcard collection. I love the thought of recieveing and sending snail mail all over the world and hearing about people's lives. I had a small collection by the end of the year, but in the middle of January I went on a mad swapping spree at Swap-Bot. I now have about 150 postcards collected in 9 months lol

To feed my swapping obsession I have had to find cheaper ways to get my hands on postcards to send to my partners. I was spending about 70p ($1.15) on each postcard I bought, and it was getting silly. So I got stuck into Ebay.co.uk and found loads of fab deals! They now only cost me on average 5p (80c) each! Yay!

After saying all that, if anyone reading my blog would like to swap postcards with me I would be more than happy to do so! I like any postcards - ones of where you're from, where you've been, anything cute/kawaii, animals, transport, art... anything! I even like Ad cards and handmade cards. So if you're interested you can email me at esshaych@hotmail.co.uk an I'll swap with you!
Apart from all that I haven't really been up to much else. I heard back from Kings College about my dental nurse training - I will be starting in June and they will start processing my application next month. Exciting! Also I recieved a wonderful birthday/Christmas package last month from my good friend Jillz at One Pink Hippo! So many fab things - I will upload the piccies!

Have a nice weekend! <3

Treasury Feature!

2011-01-09T21:33:00.002Z

It's treasury time again! Yay!

Vickyday was kind enough to feature Florence The Flumplebee in her super kawaii treasury Critters Picnic :D

Thank you Vicky - it is much appreciated!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T21:59:00.002Z

Wanted to wish everyone a Happy New Year! I hope you all had a fab night on Friday! I did the usual and stayed home (I'm never invited to parties :p) but I got to watch the London fireworks display on BBC1 lol Thank you to everyone that has messaged me with New Year wishes - I really appreciate it! :D

So, what's going to be happening this year? Well, I have some news - I got a trainee job!! *Shock-Horror!* You may remember back in May my post about Career Choices, where I talked about feeling better and maybe persuing a career as a Dental Nurse? Well, in September I applied to Kings College Hospital in London for a trainee position, and after 2 rounds of tests and an awkward interview infront of a panel, I got an email on my birthday to say I had got the position! I know, it's weird, right?! I still have to go for the medical (should be fun) but as long as it's all fine I should be starting in June :D

This is where I break the bad news. Because this is a full time job and a 2 year college course all rolled into one, I am gonna have hardly any time to do anything, let alone crochet :( So if I decide to go ahead and accept the job, I'm afraid you won't be seeing much of me from June onwards :( I'll still post on here when I can, as I'd hate to lose contact with the fab people I've met through doing this. I just won't be doing much crocheting and stuff. I'll miss it! :'(

So that's mainly whats happening with me; I hope everyone else has a great year lined up, and that it's better than 2010 if you had a crappy one like mine mostly was :)

Oh, and before I go - Super Monstie has been featured in a fab Treasury on Etsy! Thank you so much to CLScraftcreations for including him! :D You can view all the cuteness here :)

Merry Christmas

2010-12-23T17:48:00.003Z

Just wanted to wish a Merry Christmas to all my lovely blog followers! I hope you all have a fab time at the weekend, and Thank you all for your support this year - I appreciate every last one of you! *hugs*

Cacti, Octopi and A Hyperbolic Ami Thing

2010-12-11T20:31:00.006Z

Hey ho, hope everyone is well! :D

Well, the snow is almost all gone now from Basildon. There's still abit of ice remaining, but it's not really causing a problem. My Mum even went out for a drive today, and she doesn't drive in the bad weather so it must be getting better lol!

Thought I'd post some things I've been working on. All these things went with me to the carft fair last week (doesn't seem like a week ago now) and I miss them!

This is a little experiment I did with combining Hyperbolic crochet and Amigurumi. I made an egg shape, then instead of closing it up at the end just started doing 2 Sc in each stitch around for about 10-12 rounds and it turned into a Hyperbolic piece. I like the way he turned out, though his head is very heavy with all that crocheting on top of it!

I also completed my Rainbow Octopus Army...

Most of these sold, the ones that didn't I am giving to family as little stocking fillers :) And I don't think I showed you my latest Mutant Cactus...

... Number 104! I started off by just wanting to make a tall cactus, then I thought it'd be weird if he had all loads of bumps all over him, so every round I did a Bobble Stitch somewhere in the round. He's one of my favs!

I am currently working on a red version of Roxycraft's Big Blue for my cousin's brithday. I know, I'm not using one of my own patterns - I'm feeling lazy lol! :p I have the head done, just need the body and arms :)

Hope everyone has a nice weekend! :D

Brentwood Craft & Gift Fair 2010

2010-12-06T17:33:00.005Z

I'm back from Brentwood! It went brilliantly! Yay! Here are some pictures of the stuff on my stall...

That's a whole years work of crocheting right there lol! It's a bit sad seeing it be sold - I've become so attached to the things I make :( I was especially sad to see Emo Maria, Pip the Bunny and Gibbley go :(

I gave out lots of buisiness cards and met some lovely people, all very supportive of my work. I want to thank everyone that purchased from me, or even just took a look at the stall, it makes all the work I put in this year worth while when I see people smiling at the stuff I make :D I'd also like to say a big Thanks to my Mum who did the fair with me, and my Dad who drove us all the way to Brentwood in the snow *hugs* :)

Although I had a fab time, I'm not sure if I'll be doing it again next year. I felt under alot of pressure this year crocheting stuff for the fair so I might have a rest next year :) But I'll still be making stuff for Etsy, so I'm not going to dissapear lol!

Early Christmas Pressie From Me To You

2010-11-30T21:10:00.004Z

I've been thinking now for a while what I could give as a little pressie to my lovely blog followers. A free pattern? Another giveaway?

Then the other day I got an email from Etsy saying they have introduced Coupon Codes, so that buyers can have a percentage off of an order. So I made one just for my loyal followers!

Enter the following code at checkout and recieve a whole 30% off of your order! Yay!

BLOGXMAS10

Terms And Conditions
. For use on any current item/s in my Etsy shop, including pattern collection deals
. Excludes Custom Orders
. Use from 30th November 2010 until 25th December 2010

That's it! I hope you will find it of use, it's just a little pressie from me to you :D

Also new in my shop this week is the pattern for Stuart The Uniloomph, and 2 pattern deal packages. You can now pick any 3 of my $3.00 pattern for the special price of $6.30, and the whole collection for $19.25 :D Plus if you use the discount coupon above you save even more! Yay!!

That is it! It's started snowing here in Essex, which is bad as I need to get to Brentwood on Sunday for the craft fair. I hope it's not cancelled - I've worked all year for this bloody show lol!

He's Back!

2010-11-26T18:35:00.003Z

I finally got round to vamping up my Jacob The Jellyfish pattern today! You can now purchase the new improved, shiny pattern in my Etsy Shop :D

Still to follow are The Uniloomph and Tilly The Turtle :)

Hope everyone has a nice weekend! :D

Crocheting For Craft Fairs

2010-11-24T17:46:00.004Z

Hiho! Hows everyone?! I hope you all well. I'm sorry it's been a while but, again, I haven't really been up to much crocheting. The little I have made I will share with you here...

First up is the army of Monsties I've been making; some plain ones...

... and 2 striped ones...

I made them using my Monsties pattern, a 3.5mm hook and I used 2 different sized eyes. After making Mr. Wonkey I thought it looked cute :)

Next I made another Mutant Cactus...

... No.103! He's a little cactus this time, and again I used different sized eyes and a 3.5mm hook.

Last but not least I made a big Eggbert...

... again using a 3.5mm hook and this time stick on eyes, which I glued on for extra strength; I also sewed the pom poms on. All these guys are going on my craft stall, which is just a week and a half away! Getting nervous!

Mutant Cactus 102

2010-11-13T15:13:00.004Z

Sorry for not being around much lately - to tell you the truth I haven't been crocheting much :( But I did make another Mutant Cactus last week, and thought I'd share :)

He/she is Specimen 102, totally freeformed - no pattern was used :) I liked the idea of a cactus with multiple growths growing off of it, and then I gave them eyes for cuteness lol!

In other news - the craft fair I'm taking part in is only 3 weeks away now, and I still have quite a few little bits to make. So far I have about 12 medium sized ami's, including Flumplebees, Super Monsties and dolls; and smaller things like keyrings, mini octopus', scarfs, bear ear headbands and pin cushions. I still need to make some Monsties, Eggberts, birdies and a Uniloomph. So that's what I'm going to be up to - I'll post pics when I'm finished! :D

And tonight I'm off to London again to The 02 Arena to see Paramore with my brother - good times! :D

A Heavy Weekend

2010-11-01T23:36:00.010Z

At the weekend I went to see Avenged Sevenfold and co-headliners Stone Sour at the Hammersmith Apollo in London - on Saturday AND Sunday! - t'was a great weekend! Well, if you don't count the trouble with the London Underground and having to trek through a dark, gloomy London guided only by my brothers iphone sat-nav. But we got there both nights ok and on time :)

I must just say before I post any pictures that the seating at the Apollo is terrible. All my pictures were taken by me holding the camera above my head as my view was crap, and they came out abit blurry :(

Support was HellYeah...

... who were abit too shouty for me, but were good anyway. On the Saturday Stone Sour were up before A7X...

... and on the Sunday Corey Taylor wore a dress for Halloween...

... nice! Stone Sour were brilliant - they are a band I wouldn't have gone to see otherwise, so it was really nice to get the chance to see what they were about. I came home and bought loads of their stuff off of itunes lol!

A7X were up last on Saturday...

...and first on Sunday. They were, of course, excellent - can never fault them! It was the first time I've seen them since their drummer Jimmy died in December. They paid tribute to him...

... and it was lovely when the crowd chanted his name on Saturday. R.I.P Jimmy

Oh, and check out the queue for the bar on Sunday...

Lol!

It was a brilliant weekend! I'd been looking forward to it for ages, and it didn't disappoint. Wish I could do it again!! :'(

In other news - I have given myself a blister on my right index finger from crocheting too much. I'm so proud - a crochet injury!! :D

Treasury Time!

2010-10-29T18:11:00.003+01:00

My stuff has been featured in another Etsy treasury today! Happy Days! This time it's the turn of my Florence The Flumplebee PDF in a super cute Angels themed treasury!

Massive Thanks to fsumu1978, it's an honor! :D

200 Sales!

2010-10-28T18:16:00.003+01:00

I was so happy today to realise I had recieved my 200th Etsy sale! Yay! :D

Thank you to everyone that has not only bought my patterns but has supported me on this blog and places like DeviantArt, Flickr, Craftster, Facebook and Ravelry. I couldn't do it without you! *hugs*

The Birth Of Mr. Wonkey

2010-10-27T23:58:00.004+01:00

I was actually in quite a crochet mood tonight, so I decided to get some stuff made for the craft stall I'm doing at Christmas. I need to make some Monsties (about 10) that I can bundle into a big bowl and sell.

So I started one. Then I thought 'Wouldn't it be weird to have a multi-coloured Monstie?'. I've never made or seen one before so I gave it a go. I then thought I'd give him different sized eyes. I've recently bought some lovely safetly eyes from 6060 on Etsy, and have been trying out different sizes (They are great eyes btw - I ordered some more a minute ago).

I was almost finished with him when I noticed his legs were totally different sizes. I was gonna frog him, but felt kind of sorry for him so I decided to make a 'Wonkey Monstie'. This is him in all his wonkey glory:

Bless him!! His left leg is a full 3rd smaller than his right, his mouth is on wonkey, he has different sized eyes and he's all randomly stripey! I like him - I kind of don't want to sell him! I think I will be making more Wonkey Monsties! <3

Etsy Feature!

2010-10-24T18:26:00.003+01:00

I got an email today saying that my Lydia The Flumplebee has been featured in this fab treasury on Etsy! Yay!! Go and check it out - it's full of really cute items picked out by, and I quote, '...very discerning 8 year old young lady' :D

Thank you very much to MerciBuckets and the young lady in question - it's an honor to be amongst such sweet items! :D

Christmas Cards?! Too Early!!?

2010-10-20T21:34:00.004+01:00

Yeah, I know it's only October, but I've started putting together my Christmas card list! And like last year, I'm willing to send anyone a Christmas card, wherever you are in the world :) And like before, I won't use your address to send you junk mail or anything. I just love snail mail lol!

So, if you would like me to send you a cute Christmas card, simply send me your postal address and I'll send you one towards the end of November :) I'd email your address to me rather than comment with it below (Esshaych@hotmail.co.uk), as you don't want everyone seeing your address lol!

I want to send LOADS of cards! Yay! :D

Another New Pattern!

2010-10-16T22:14:00.003+01:00

Just listed in my Etsy Shop...

Florence The Flumplebee PDF pattern!

Background info on Flumplebees...

The Fumplebees are a shy and quiet race of fairys. They live in garden sheds and like nothing better than flying around the garden on a nice summers day collecting petals and twigs.

Hope you like her! :D

3 New Patterns and a Face Lift

2010-10-15T19:23:00.004+01:00

I finally got round to uploading my new pictures and banner to my Etsy Shop today. There is a cloud/heavenly theme running through it all - I hope you will like it!

I also uploaded 3 new patterns! We have...

Gibbley - The Monster Under The Bed

Cuddle Monster

Apple In A Suit

I still have the Flumplebee PDF to write out, should be done by Monday. I really hope you like the new patterns - Thank you again to all the people that tested them for me!

I must just say too that I have taken the Uniloomph, Jacob The Jellyfish and Tilly The Turtle pattern down for now. I am still in the middle of re-writing them. They should be back up by Christmas though :)

Hope you like!

A New Hobby?

2010-10-09T15:00:00.000+01:00

I've been on the look out for a while now for different things to occupy my seemingly endless free time. I love crocheting - but there's only so much you can do!

I've always wanted to try needle felting, so the other week I bought myself a starter kit from Ebay...

Yay! You get 50g of GB wool tops, 3 needles in different sizes, a foam block, handle and instructions. I played about for a little while, after watching some videos on trusty old YouTube, and after half an hour or so (and an aching arm!) I got this; my first needle felted thing!

Lol! Not too sure what it is - just a blob with a face really! I've made a little man since, but he hasn't got a face yet (I need more colours of wool). I'll show you when he's finished :)

I think I'm going to buy more wool and keep at it. It's not easy getting the shape you want (the face above was ment to be a ball...) but, like with crochetng, I'm sure over time I'll improve :)

Goodies!

2010-10-07T19:46:00.005+01:00

I got some great goodies in the post last week! I loves getting stuff in the post lol!

First off I got a lovely card from Crystal...

Thank you Crystal - it really cheered me up! It is now sitting on my amigurumi shelf!

Also I got another fab package from Jill!

A cute card and fabric elephant (that my Mum is trying to steal from me!)

2 adorable hats for my new born cousins Alan and Roy (they are going to love them!! I love them!)

And some I <3 NY socks!

Here's an action shot :D

Thank you Jill, I love getting packages from you! Expect one back soon!

Also while I'm here I'd like to point you in the direction of Crystals new craft blog, Make A Mess! We all need some support when starting a blog, so please check it out - it's full of crafty goodness!!

The Healing Power Of Crochet

2010-10-05T16:20:00.004+01:00

I subscribe to the Etsy Teams email, which I recieve weekly. In it today I found a link to a fab article about the healing power of crafts, and in particular crochet. It's a great post - I urge you to read it!!

You can find it on this blog :)

Mini Monsters and Cupcake Stands

2010-10-02T17:51:00.005+01:00

I was bored yesterday so decided to make up yet another monster. I call this one the Flying Cyblob...

He's about 2' tall, has one eye, wings, a weird horn/ear thing and a fluffy tail. I'm thinking of making loads of them in different sizes for my craft stall :)

Talking of, I bought this from Ebay.co.uk last week...

... a cardboard cupcake stand! I've been on the look out for cupcake stands for a while now as I thought little ami's would look cute on them, but they are so expensive. Then I found a cardboard one for a fraction of the price - Yay! It's massive, so I'm going to have to make loads of ami's for it. When I've done all of them I'll take pictures :)

Hope everyone has a great weekend!