3/02/2011

Book Review: Vogue Knitting Knitopedia


Vogue Knitting Knitopedia, The Ultimate A to Z for Knitters, released this month,  retails for $34.95. This is the book for those that want a quick reference to every knitting term, technique, tool, designer, and fiber or tradition.  The pictures are big and beautiful, and include maps, photographs, technical drawings, schematics, and tables for every curious need. This book is best left at home, however, due to its size and hard cover.

On a more entertaining note, there are essays written by top names in the knitting world, peeking out at you throughout the book, ready for your eyes to devour. If you want to try your hand at design, there is some basic information on how to do that, and how to substitute yarns. The flow of finding what you need is so easy with extensive cross referencing on practically every page. In my opinion, Vogue Knitting Kniopedia would make a great gift for the beginning knitter, and for those that want to learn a lot about knitting in a short amount of time.

2/24/2011

American Eagle Spring Break - Create a Look and Win!

Create a look to win $250 to use at American Eagle Outfitters!!


Get your own Mini Editor from Polyvore

One winning set will be selected from all of the Mini Editor submissions and that reader will win a $250 American Eagle gift card. The contest runs from now until March 5, 2011. Read the official rules, here.

Crochet Conscious

 Crocheted Monokini by Anna Kosturova - $184
Gemstone Crochet Side Tie Bikini - $41.99

Lime is a surprisingly unexpected color for Summer, to wear by the beach or at the pool. Pair it with white or black for a striking combination. Silver or gold jewelry would go with it nicely as well.

2/21/2011

Sexy Openwork


Killer Cables


2/14/2011

Bensoni features TotusMel Tats Designs


Bensoni's latest designs were beautifully embellished with tatted ankle corsets and necklaces in their Fall 2011 runway collection. Congratulations to Pamela Quevedo, owner of TotusMel Tats, and designer of the accessories used in this collection.

2/08/2011

GirlsLife.com - Get crafty to support the Special Olympics

GirlsLife.com - Get crafty to support the Special Olympics

1/26/2011

Asymmetric Tops


 Guess Ana Top - Asymmetric design with flattering shirring and pleats. 
One flutter sleeve and one chain mesh strap - $79



Shirred Jersey Top - $24.99 - 29.99 Sale *plus sizes


BKE Boutique Criss - Cross Cable Knit Sweater - $29 Sale

Add a little interest to your outfit with the look of asymmetry. This design element is flattering for most types of figures.

1/21/2011

Romantic Ensembles





To get this look, shop for pieces that are airy and feminine, in pastel hues. White or beige shoes with open work or straps like these work well. Layer on a chunky knitted cardigan for coziness and warmth. A beautiful pair of gold earrings would compliment it nicely.






Rose Hand Knit Open Crop Cable Jumper, $100
BANK Fashion - Kitsch Couture I Love ?? T-Shirt, 15 GBP
UNGER Fashion - Straight Leg-Jeans 'Billy' Blue - 29/34 - 30/34, 269 EUR
Maison Martin Margiela Leather Sequin Heel from Mrs H
Jessica Simpson Karma Hobo, $78


This is a soft, casual look that can be achieved with a regular soft tee you have at home, a handmade pullover sweater, and a pair of your oldest, best fitting jeans. Add some brown boots and a floral hobo, and you're good to go.

Both of these outfits would be nice and sensual for your special date with your Valentine.

1/11/2011

3 Way Cowl Free Pattern



The reason this cowl is named "3 Way" is because it can be worn three ways. You can wear it lifted up and open as shown in the image above, folded in half, or up and turned around so it looks like it is closed all the way up the neck. Yarnmarket has some great free pattern PDF downloads for you right now.

1/05/2011

Unique Cardigans

Here are a few of the most unique cardigans I've ever seen.

Givenchy Cable Knit Cardigan - 100% Wool - One Button Closure - $1,266

Textile Elizabeth and James Eleanor Cocoon Cardigan 
Batwing Sleeves - Laddered panels with cables - $595

12/20/2010

Fabulous Fair Isle

Lucky Brand - Topanga Fair Isle Sweater Dress - $50 
(30% off sale items and free upgrade to express shipping until 12/20/10)






12/19/2010

The Fur Effect

Filatura Di Crosa came out with this beautiful chinchilla like yarn called "Cincilla". It knits up to create beautiful fur like garments, and accessories. It comes in eight luxurious colors to choose from. Try this instead, if you cannot come to terms with buying a real chinchilla fur coat.

Filatura Di Crosa Cincilla Knitting Yarn in Lilac - $12.85 each - YarnMarket.com

Cincilla yarn in White $12.95 each - Yarn.com

This jacket is featured in the Filatura Di Crosa Cincilla pattern booklet. It is knitted with two types of yarns, Cincilla being one of them.

Summer Crochet

Chimai Swim Retro One Piece crocheted bikini - $169

One shoulder crocheted cover up - $74

Show off your curves, and keep your goals in check with these cute crocheted pieces for this coming Spring and Summer.

11/28/2010

Love Your Sleepwear Even More

Compression sleepwear is known to improve circulation, and can even help your muscles repair faster. They are usually priced fairly high, due to the material and construction. You do get what you pay for when buying this type of garment, so choose wisely.

Cass Luxury Sleepwear Tank - $72, Shaper Leggings - $54

The form fitting pieces can be worn under clothing too, or as nice layers under blouses, jackets, and skirts.


I discovered this modern suit while reading Shape Magazine, the August 2010 issue (page131). I knew I had to share it with you because of the interesting fiber content and because it is a great addition to your wardrobe. "AMP PRO2 improves oxygenated blood flow up to 32% more, versus regular compression fabrics." This means faster recovery time for your tired and aching muscles after that hard workout. You can wear this incredible design to sleep or on your daily run. Another great aspect is the fact that the suit will work as long as the life of it because washing does not effect its performance.

Visit the Saucony website (click on the technology link on the top navigation bar) and www.Celliant.com for more information.

11/27/2010

Special Olympics Georgia 40th Anniversary Celebration

"Special Olympics Georgia is looking for volunteers to knit or crochet scarves for our 40th Anniversary Celebration during State Indoor Winter Games to be held Jan. 21-23, 2011. The pattern is up to you and the size we would like is 6" by 4-5", red or red/white. Our goal is to be able to provide each of the 1,400 Athletes with a scarf during Opening Ceremonies for them to then wear throughout the weekend."

The organization is looking to receive the majority by Dec. 17 so they will know how many to expect. The scarves must reach the Atlanta location by January 14th, the latest deadline.  Also there are places they can be dropped off: Needle Nook on Briarcliff, Whole Nine Yarns in Woodstock and The Café at Barnes Noble in Forum in Norcross (ask for Michelle). In addition, they can be mailed to the address below.

Jennifer DaniellGrants & Events Mgr
SOGA
4000 Dekalb Technology Parkway
Suite 400 Bld. 400
Atlanta, GA  30340

If you can help please call Jennifer at Special Olympics Georgia
 770-414-9390 ext.110
Fax: 770 216-8339
For more details, or you can email Jennifer

Here are some lovely examples:

Yarn Projects From the Heart - Special Olympics Scarves



11/23/2010

Festive Yarns

Moonlight  Mohair by Lion Brand Yarns - 57% Acrylic, 28% Mohair, 9% cotton, 6% metallic polyester - Bulky/Chunky

Lazer FX by Berroco - 100% polyester - various weight

Beaded Ensemble and Sequins Yarn by Artyarns - Silk blend - worsted

11/22/2010

Knitting Kits at Free People






If you're a beginner knitter, these project packs from Free People are just right and quick to knit. They also make great gifts for crafty folk. Right now Free People is offering free shipping on all orders placed online. Happy Knitting!

10/16/2010

New Savings and Freebies

Lion Brand Yarn - Free Shipping until October 22nd - Use code fall4yarn at checkout.

Berroco - Free Pattern - Truman Hooded Vest

Craftzine.com Blog - Free Pattern - Knit Bow Headband

Vampire Knits by Genevieve Miller - Free Pattern - Tournaquit Scarf (Unisex)

Alpaca Direct - $5 off $50 or more until October 20th - Use code LD5786 at checkout (free ship for $75 and over)

Aftershock London - 20% off until October 24th - use code midseason at checkout (free ship UK orders for 150 GBP and over)

9/25/2010

Ultimate Fall Luxury



$1,500.00 - Intermix

Stunning and eye catching stitching, made of a rayon blend.



$1,049.00 - YOOX

This beautiful and long cardigan is a mohair blend.



170.00 GBP - Browns Fashion

This modern and sleek top is made of rayon.

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