Yarning

Seven weeks old...

2011-11-06T14:30:00.000-08:00

Sabrina has been with us for seven weeks now... we are getting into some kind of schedule and rhythm. I am finally starting to feel some creativity creep back in, thank goodness since I thought my brain would continue to feel like mush forever. I have no idea how other women do it, looking after babies and toddlers while continuing to create and inspire as well as share and blog about it... I am in awe of these women (and there are so many of them). I honestly still have those days where I can barely manage to take a shower... let alone finish a knitting project. (or post to my blog) :)

But one newly crooked smile makes it all worthwhile... and is there anything better than kissing those now dimply arms and legs? We are all so in love with this new little person...

Thanks everyone for the sweet congratulations and welcome backs!

Welcome to the world baby Sabrina!

2011-09-30T13:48:00.000-07:00

Talk about complete abandonment of blog... for 7 months no less. Why? Well, I found out I was pregnant... Yes, pregnant in my mid forties... eek! To say I needed 7 months to adjust to the idea is an understatement, haha.

So here we are with a very special addition to the family, yes, another girl, baby Sabrina. She was born September 16 and is now 2 weeks old exactly.

The big girls adore her...

Welcome to the world baby Sabrina! You are so very precious...

Is there anything better than knitting for baby? Nope. I loved knitting the Pickles Darling dress for Sabrina...

Snowday!

2011-02-23T19:14:00.000-08:00

To say the late snow caught us off guard is an understatement... but what a wonderful surprise to wake up to! We all decided to take a snow day off... is there anything better when it happens so rarely and won't again for at least another year?

Happy Valentines!

2011-02-13T17:02:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone a happy Valentines! :)

Yarn embroidery

2011-01-30T16:54:00.000-08:00

Wanted to try my hand at embroidering flowers on knits.... Based VERY loosely on the beautiful kalocsa embroidery I so admire. My circles aren't perfectly circular, my leaves are a bit uneven, but the heart turned out pretty good. :) I love the look of the folklore flowers on the plain grey mittens, imperfections and all. Now on to mitten #2... and then perhaps a photo session with oldest daughter for the final results?

Pretend cable capelet

2011-01-22T17:20:00.000-08:00

Knitted up this super cute (and quick) little capelet this past week. The pattern is from the book Gifted: Lovely Little Things to Knit and Crochet, by Mags Kandis. The what looks like a cable is actually not a true cable but a pssso, sooo easy and fun.

Annie was a magnificent model as per usual, am I not the luckiest? I love how the pictures turned out.

Nordic slouch hat

2011-01-16T16:12:00.000-08:00

Love this new book, Quick Nordic Knits. Spotted it first as a Japanese book, then imagine my great happiness when I noticed it available in English as well! Chiana helped my indecision as to what to knit first by picking what she calls her 'gnome' hat. She lives in this hat. :) So many hats, mittens, and socks... love.

New look and new book

2011-01-09T17:29:00.000-08:00

How exciting! Thought it was time for a new blog look and so after a weekend of many evil words mostly pointed towards Blogger, XML and my own limited skills here it is... a new Yarning...

Annie was not impressed that she no longer appears in the header, but I explained that since she is my number one model she would appear in plenty of post images and so would still be a big part of the blog. :) Hope everyone likes the new look!

The images are from a brand new Japanese knitting book, "Small Nordic Knitting", isbn 978-4391139518 and available on Amazon.jp. I love...

Knits and layering

2011-01-04T20:04:00.000-08:00

Loving the layered, colorful mixed knit looks from the November Fudge magazine. Winter is still here and there is plenty of time left for knitting up more goods. Have a couple of small projects on the go right now such as mittens, hats, and infinity scarfs but then it might be time for a cardi. Love, and I mean love, the neon yellow one...

Back to 'normal'

2011-01-01T19:55:00.000-08:00

Happy new decade everyone!

Don't tell my girls, but as much as I loved the holiday season, I am now enjoying the post holiday quiet and regroup. Tree and other Christmas decorations came down today, yes that always is a bit sad, but loved putting the house 'back together'.

Lucky me received the beyond gorgeous chrome pendant lamp from my significant other and it is now re-wired and hanging in the kitchen. Sooooooo love.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T11:45:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone the happiest of holidays!!

Sweet embroidery from Japanese sewing magazine Cotton Time 2010.

Red magazine Christmas

2010-12-19T13:42:00.000-08:00

Love these inspiring Christmas images from Red Magazine...

More Nordic Christmas

2010-12-14T18:51:00.000-08:00

Close up view of my cross-stitched mobile ornament. I am so enjoying the embroidery right now I have a few more on the go.

And how about that great big stocking?? It's huge! Super quick knit embroidered with duplicate stitch snowflake. Eek, quite a few more of those to make and time is running out fast!

Christmas mobile 2010

2010-12-12T16:32:00.000-08:00

Another Christmas mobile, but this years version incorporates the nordic influences I am so in love with right now. Embroidered reindeer and snowflakes (cross-stitch) and a fair-isle knitted ball. Lots of pompoms and of course hearts. I covered an old lamp shade frame with lace and embroidered big cross stitches with big fat yarn. Red and white only...

Nordic Christmas!

2010-12-04T11:09:00.000-08:00

Finally starting to get the house Christmas ready... these Nordic Christmas pictures from Taverne Agency are my inspiration this year... they go right along with the snowflake and reindeer knitted stockings project underway.

Fair Isle knitting

2010-12-01T19:09:00.000-08:00

In love with Fair Isle knitting. I cannot get enough. My crush has gone beyond knitting in heart shapes and am now wanting to try the real intricate patterns. My first try of a somewhat easy star pattern above, just one lonely brown and cream mitten so far. All other pictures from various Japanese craft and fashion magazines...

My plan is Christmas stockings with knitted in patterns... Running out of time quickly I know, but maybe with big yarn and needles? Stars and reindeers and snowflakes knitted in around the top? I will attempt...

Ikea Christmas

2010-11-21T19:16:00.000-08:00

I can no longer deny the fact that Christmas is very quickly approaching... (not that the girls haven't been reminding me every single day for the past 2 weeks) I was in some serious need for inspiration and these Ikea pictures are doing just that.

Big fat fake fur coat

2010-11-18T20:15:00.001-08:00

Hmmm.... having my picture taken has got to be on my top 5 list of things I hate to do but in this case there just was no choice. My big loopy coat was just too big and heavy for the girls to model so there you have it. Also the picture turned out just a tad blurry so some photoshopping was required. :) Anyhow, love my big fat coat and it turned out just as I'd imagined. I used the same loopy knit technique as my scarf not too long ago, and used a from the bottom up cardi pattern. Fun, right?

Mittens and pom-poms

2010-11-14T17:45:00.000-08:00

Mittens! Quick to knit up and as addictive as knitting socks. Once you start the possibilities are endless. These 2 sets were knitted using the same Knit.1 stripey mitten pattern from years ago, but I changed things up a bit for the heart ones. I knitted these plain and embroidered on the hearts using a duplicate stitch. Top them off with pompoms and what's not to love? Chiana has dibs on the heart pair but I think the stripey ones are all mine. Can't wait for cozy hands...

Knitting fake fur!

2010-11-07T14:27:00.000-08:00

Loving all the big faux fur shag vests and jackets out there.... thought I would try my hand at knitting a shaggy scarf for starters. Used an old faux fur technique from an old 70's knitting book. A bit time consuming with all those loops but I love the effect and result.

Now that I am brave and confident with the technique I have started a shaggy black coat!! To wear with a lace mini skirt and ankle boots...

Halloween

2010-10-31T20:18:00.000-07:00

False lashes, tulle skirts and tons of diva attitude were the perfect costumes for both girls this Halloween! Hope everyone had fun trick or treating.

Granny square bag

2010-09-21T06:25:00.000-07:00

Whipped up this quick granny square purse in between the knitting projects. I love how it looks with my army jacket and boots. :) I doubt I will ever tire of the granny square...

Jansdotter Handmade Living

2010-09-18T18:04:00.000-07:00

Loving Designer Lotta Jansdotter's latest book, Handmade Living. Gorgeous pics of her incredible home in Brooklyn, lots of creative ideas and even recipes for yummie Scandinavian dishes. I especially love her studio... oh, and her incredible patchwork bedspread. :)

Mood board bits...

2010-09-11T07:59:00.000-07:00

Fresh new moodboard for Fall. Love pinning up all my little bits and pieces of inspiration. I've been sewing like a demon and have been knocking out lots of little knitting projects. I think the board is doing its job...

Granny square pillow

2010-09-04T11:00:00.000-07:00

Had a sudden need for another granny square project, so whipped up a quick little pillow. Reminded me of how much I still love the granny square and that a black blanket for the couch should really be on my list of projects to-do's...

J.Crew Fall 2010

2010-08-29T19:37:00.000-07:00

Love summer, don't get me wrong. But secretly have always loved fall better... Yes, I will miss the bare legs and sun and bike rides and will complain when the rain hits knowing it won't stop until next summer, but oh I love wearing clothes... real clothes and not just a summer dress. Layers and layers of clothes and boots and scarves and thick knits... the combinations are limitless. Oh yes, it is time for knitting also... chunky socks and cardi's and scarves... inspired by all the fur on the runways and of course J.Crew I am working on a "fake fur-shearling" lookalike scarf already! I will keep you posted on that little number... (chances of tackiness are quite high) :)

Oh. and thanks J.Crew for the inspiration above... I love...

Neighborhood rides

2010-08-22T16:07:00.000-07:00

Fall seems to be in the air so the girls and I are taking advantage of the last month of relaxing and beautiful evening rides. Love the community gardens in our neighborhood, and had to take a picture of one of the cruise ships visiting our city since it was the Amsterdam. :)

Honestly, my last lamp!!

2010-08-02T19:58:00.000-07:00

My girls had such cute little concerned faces when I came home with this last lamp purchase... But Mom, they said, where will you put this lamp? (both looking about frantically wondering where Mom could possibly make room for this latest find and seriously doubting my decision making skills ) But girlies, I said, it's Dutch (!!) and seventies (!!) and so rare to find here (!!) and how could I not bring it home?? (With a calm and innocent face completely hiding my tiny bit of embarrassment at bringing home yet another lamp)

Like I didn't have a place picked out the minute I ogled it in the store! Tools came out, partner meanwhile very supportive and following my instructions to the letter, and oh happy day there it is looking quite spectacular. Yes, the girls have learned a lesson in trusting their mama and have seen the light also and are quite in love with this orange sweet thing as well...

Crocheted footstool cover

2010-08-02T16:50:00.000-07:00

Great thrifted footstool which, although in perfect shape, needed a crocheted cover. It is made up of several granny squares in various patterns with an added border. Perfect quickie project. And oh what a relief to finally feel somewhat inspired again and actually complete a project!! :)

Summer evening bike rides

2010-07-25T16:23:00.000-07:00

I've been blog absent for almost 3 weeks! I have no idea how or why this happened. Perhaps I just simply needed a break and time to focus on other things for a bit.

Have not had any time off work yet this summer (soon, I hope!) but have been trying to make the most of those gorgeous warm nights by going on bike rides on my newly thrifted bike. (An old seventies yellow bike I got for $35!) Simply stuff a blanket and a drink in my basket and off we go. Heaven. Ashamed to say I had not been on a bike since coming to Canada from Holland where I practically lived on my bike. Suffice to say I was more than a little sore and wobbly at first...

Vintage typewriter for birthday girl

2010-07-04T15:07:00.000-07:00

I found a $12 vintage typewriter (with case!!) and since Chiana is pursuing a career in writing this seemed like the perfect birthday find. Totally fits her style as well. Every author should have one even if it is only a decorative item. I cleaned it up, found new typewriter ribbon and voila! Works great and turns out the whole family is using it for those spontaneous and random thoughts and messages. :) Very fun.

Happy 17th birthday oldest babygirl!

2010-06-30T21:17:00.000-07:00

My oldest... 17 today, July 1. (Canada day no less!) My first babygirl and she was and still is everything a mom could ever have wished and hoped for. Sweet, oh so sweet, eyes that melt me and a smile that absolutely brightens the darkest of days. Smart cookie that knows exactly what she wants and goes to get it. A writer that will most certainly get published in the near future. The perfect combination of softness and toughness. We have gone through a lot and have come out better and stronger than we could ever have imagined. My girl. I am so proud. :)

Her biggest wish? An eyebrow piercing to go with her lip piercing. And how could I say no? Scheduled for Friday. :) Her friends will go along for moral support this time. I almost fainted through the lip piercing and have gracefully declined (with a loud sigh of relief from her end because her mother passing out in a cool piercing shop is the last thing she needs) attending this particular episode... :)

Happy birthday sweet baby!!

Marimekko... again

2010-06-29T22:13:00.000-07:00

Love these Marimekko images... All pictures except for the vintage one at the bottom from a Japanese Marimekko print publication. Had to include the cool 70's stripey ensembles picture from zavodbig.com. Soooo awesome.

Lamp obsession continues

2010-06-27T19:39:00.000-07:00

I have been so very, very lucky to find these Dutch seventies lamps right here in town. Usually I see them on Dutch vintage sites but can't even imagine what the shipping must cost to bring them to me. So I usually just imagine and drool. And then there they were posted on UsedVictoria, a local used everything auction type site. For a more than reasonable price. I think they are happy to be in a somewhat Dutch home again... :)

Crocheted lace hat

2010-06-19T21:52:00.000-07:00

The girls are almost finished school for the year... one more busy week of final exams and it is all over until September. This is when I wish I could also take the summer off and spend some time with them... It is all going so very, very fast.

Just had to crochet this lacy hat for either one of the girls, fell in love with it the first time I laid eyes on it in the Japanese Let's Knit book "Natural Colors Knit Items". How lucky was I to actually have oldest daughter home and wanting to model for me? Probably due to her brand new red streaks compliments of Mom who yes, used to be a hairdresser for 15 years. :)

Denim overalls...

2010-06-13T16:40:00.000-07:00

Don't own a pair but am so loving worn, faded denim overalls right now. Especially the dress version (bottom pic) that you could wear with absolutely everything... (W Closet)

Top from Let's Knit book Autumn & Winter 2009-10, Ralph Lauren (pictures from Style.com), and J.Crew.

More thrifted treasures

2010-06-08T21:12:00.000-07:00

My latest thrifted treasures... the most beautiful vintage embroidered ribbon and a Soehnle kitchen scale. How lucky can a treasure hunter be? :)

Perfect Saturday

2010-06-06T12:57:00.000-07:00

The first beautiful summer day... sunshine and gorgeous blue skies... finally. Today it is back to grey skies and rain but yesterday was perfection. Both the girls were out and about doing their 'own thing with friends', and so it was a Saturday afternoon for two. This called for a drive, impromptu picnic on the beach, and enjoying the gorgeous scenery we usually take for granted. Perfection...

Seventies style crocheted window hanging

2010-06-02T20:08:00.000-07:00

I remember my mom crocheting these for every window in the house back in the seventies. I especially remember a huge one crocheted in brown cotton. Loved them then and thought I'd give one a go. I found a great doily pattern (any doily pattern, really) in yes, what else, a Japanese crochet book. (ISBN 9784277261401 ) Easy project in fine white cotton, then took apart an old lampshade in order to use the top ring. Crocheting around the ring was the fiddliest part and caused severe hand cramps. :)

New pile vintage knitting mags

2010-05-31T22:02:00.000-07:00

Vintage Vogue knitting magazines, Mon Tricots, and an old Dutch Ariadne craft mag with my coffee. Still finding my bit of heaven indoors since the weather obviously has no clue it is almost June and it really is supposed to be summer. :) What is with the rain every single day???

Seventies style pillows

2010-05-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

I did warn you that my blog would quickly become a scan-fest with my newly acquired scanner... :) Sewing the round patchwork pillows have been on my to-do list forever. I am still trying to collect the "just perfect" vintage fabrics and this has been slow going. But I will make some guaranteed. Must haves. The images at the top are from a 1969 issue of Dutch craft magazine Ariadne Handwerken. The pillows turned into cuddling corner are perfection as well. What kid wouldn't go crazy to have a corner like that now? Love that fabric...

Crocheted shelf edging

2010-05-19T19:13:00.000-07:00

Currently dabbling around with some crocheted edgings. (my quicky shelf edging at the top) Edgings are fun. Digging up old 70's patterns is even more fun. Trying a filet crochet edging next. And of course coming across cute little filet crochet curtains as well... I remember mom crocheting these for every window in the house in brown, white, and a red one for my room. So awesome.

Lacy jean jacket redo

2010-05-16T21:05:00.000-07:00

Chiana's turn for a special something from Mama. :)

I tore the sleeves off an old dark denim jean jacket, bleached it as far as I dared, then sewed vintage lace around the sleeve and bottom edges... Not quite enough lace so patchworked some more vintage lace on the back. Ah yes, perfection. She loves....

Upcycling is the best!

Conran The House Book

2010-05-15T21:11:00.000-07:00

We now own a scanner! I know, I am a bit late to the party but better late than never. I am furiously pulling out all my vintage books to find scanning material. The Terence Conran House Book won out for first dibs. First printed in 1974 it is a true classic. Above are my favs... Now back to finding other books to scan!

Hippie denim

2010-05-13T21:30:00.000-07:00

Must be my clogs giving me 70's dreams but especially loving the hippie denim look right now... especially these pics from Fudge magazine. Gauzy white shirts and dresses, bits of old lace, and worn denim. Yum.

Oh yes, my dream clogs!

2010-05-11T21:51:00.000-07:00

A ridiculous amount of photos for just a new pair of clogs, over the top I know. But I am just so excited and Annie was being the most spectacular top model ever and this photo session just got out of hand...

Finding my new Chanel-esque clogs was a mission in itself and after much searching I finally found "The Pair" online at Nordstrom in the US. Oh happy online shopping! Yes I am babbling but really, just look at them!! :)

Annie had to try them out the minute they came out of the box and things immediately went to Photo Session when the camera was pulled out. I dressed her up in my favorite dress and tights (yes, she looks much better in them than I do I am sure) and we were on. Very impressive that although the clogs were a little big on her, she managed to not fall on her head even while climbing and standing on top of the table. I guess thats a pro for you. :)

Nimes spring/summer catalogue

2010-05-09T15:59:00.000-07:00

Love the stripes, dots, checks and images from the Nimes spring/summer catalogue by e-Mook. (yes, once again a Japanese book) The one at the top and next one down are especially sweet...

Oh, and happy Mom's day everyone! :)

Crocheted market bag

2010-05-02T16:32:00.000-07:00

Good grief, I have been pretty much neglecting my blog... As much as I love blogging it sometimes ends up being the one thing to go by the wayside when things get busy around here.

Always manage to get some crocheting in though, thank goodness. Even an hour at night when the house is finally quiet is enough to relax and wind down. Crocheted a super quick market bag in rough thick cotton last week, based on a bag pattern from yet another Japanese crochet book (Summer Crochet n2823, picture of the bag from the book at the bottom) I wanted a taller bag good for cramming in all my stuff with much longer across the body straps so kind of fudged the top half of the pattern. I just know this will be my go-to summer market shopping bag.

New japanese tiny motif crochet book

2010-04-24T18:24:00.000-07:00

Another gorgeous new Japanese craft book "tiny crochet, tiny motif pattern" from the Heart Warming Life Series (ISBN 9784529048217), available through Amazon.jp. Soooooo sweet...

Seventies knitting and crochet for babies book

2010-04-21T20:50:00.000-07:00

The girls are getting somewhat concerned with my new vintage baby pattern obsession... is there something I am not telling them? Am I sure they are meant for 'friends' babies? Haha. Yes they are. Loving this 'new' vintage book "Knitting & Crochet Babies Clothes" from 1976. My favorite picture and pattern is the red and white striped outfit with gingham pillow... :)

Japanese pattern prep day

2010-04-18T13:29:00.001-07:00

I spent most of Saturday afternoon tracing Japanese sewing patterns... various books and as many "on my list of things to sew" patterns. Just so they would be ready to go when needed. Not lying, I was a tiny little bit scared of the tracing process and trying to make sense of the Japanese characters. Turns out there was no need to be afraid, the patterns are labeled clearly and with the proper tracing paper the job was a cinch.

The only potential issue I see looming is that the patterns look very, very small... As in a L and LL still look daughter Annie size... tallness and presence of chest do not seem to be pattern friendly, :). Will have to creatively fudge in order to get the right fit. I will do up a couple of styles using bedsheets, then go from there. Wish me luck...

New vintage seventies treasures

2010-04-15T21:02:00.000-07:00

Hit the jackpot at my local thrift store... again!! Gorgeous floor length seventies curtains and the ($7!!!) orange Luxo desk lamp. Happiness...

Gingham love

2010-04-13T22:23:00.000-07:00

Loving everything gingham right now... all colors, all sizes right from little squares (with a tiny little lace trim) to big squares. It all started with my own brown and white gingham tablecloth... and now I am hooked.

Pics top to bottom: Spoon magazine (top 3), Fudge magazine, my own, Ellife, Taverne Agency (Jansje Klazinga), Spoon magazine.

Japanese cape/poncho finished!

2010-04-11T14:05:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have finally finished my Japanese poncho. Long story really, but in a nutshell, had to change the original yarn I chose because my local yarn store had changed to spring/summer stock and did not carry my thick yarn anymore... argh. I could have found it online I suppose but didn't want to add to expense. In a way using this thinner yarn (Cascade Eco yarn) works out better since I now have a little light cover up for cooler summer days. Perhaps I could make the other one for fall... love the pattern. (oh, and many thanks to my model Anastasia who was so willing to help her mama out as usual) :)

Everyday simple items

2010-04-06T21:17:00.000-07:00

Love these simple yet so very beautiful pictures from one of my favorite Japanese magazines, Spoon. Everyday items and so very sweet. Even a glass of milk is inspiring when styled just right.

Poncho for special babygirl

2010-04-04T10:32:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful Easter! I was busy finishing up little projects here and there and so there was a noticeable (by the girls) lack of Easter projects...

I completed my baby poncho for a very special little babygirl (who I won't name in case her mother reads this post). Based on a Drops Design pattern (I wanted the yo increases in the front to be hole-y), finished with a crocheted picot edge and a tiny little granny square just because. All in the round which means a very happy no seams. Joy.

I just need to whip up a cute little dress and the gift is complete.

MWM Wear

2010-04-01T06:42:00.000-07:00

Seriously loving these retro feminine and oh so happy dresses by Danish Margot Weinreich Mikkelsen's MWM Wear... (my favorite one being the orange dress at the top with the little touch of lace) Not my usual style but I think wearing them would bring happiness all day long. :)

Tablecloth dress

2010-03-28T19:21:00.000-07:00

Finally back to sewing! My oldest Chiana fell in love with a vintage ruffled with lace round tablecloth at the thrift store and we knew it had to be turned into a dress. I used an old white sheet for the bodice, trimmed with bias tape, cut a hole in the middle of the tablecloth and voila, a dress! I traced the top of a dress of mine to get the bodice pattern, and it truly only took a couple of hours. Chiana is in love, I am proud, makes for a perfect Sunday!

Razzamatazz vintage pillow pattern posted!

2010-03-24T19:35:00.000-07:00

I promised a PDF'd copy of the vintage 70's Razzamatazz pillow a few posts back, and here it is! I scanned and quickly plopped into a PDF file and hope the resolution is clear enough for everyone. My printer is on the fritz so have not even trial printed it but trust it will be fine... The file will open in Google Docs, after which you can easily download or print. Have fun and hope to see lots of cool Razzamatazz pillows soon!!!

Razzamatazz vintage pillow pattern (PDF 12.7 mb)

Brand new Japanese Let's Knit book

2010-03-21T20:15:00.000-07:00

Imagine my excitement finding the hot off the press "Natural Colors Knit Items" Japanese craft book. Styled exquisitely as per usual. :)

My babygirl turns 12!

2010-03-15T22:43:00.000-07:00

My youngest "babygirl" turns 12 today! Where oh where does time go? I am so very happy she is still the same loveable, sweet, mischievous little girl she always has been, the one that can always make me laugh. No matter what. Happy birthday baby!!

A pretty pillow after all!

2010-03-14T18:16:00.000-07:00

No blogging for an entire week?? Not sure what's going on... and hope inspiration and creativity come back asap. It has been extra crazy around here the last little while, though. Work mostly, but Annie underwent some minor surgery last week as well (she's doing great), and some tender loving care was required. Sitting down to surf the net, taking the time to visit my favorite blogs, and feeling generally inspired has seemed like such a luxury lately. I have however been trying to work on various projects. Yes, this includes the "ugly" pillow project, :).

As you can see it is done and pretty! Not ugly at all! Haha, like I had any doubts. Even the girls agree that the Razzamatazz pillow pattern has turned out just as I predicted and is just what the living room needed. I found the pattern in the Golden Hands vintage craft book, (Volume 4). I absolutely love the Golden Hands series of books from the 70's. I followed the pattern exactly, but added a crochet button instead of the pompom suggested. :) If someone wants the pattern but can't find the book just let me know and I'll see if I can post it!

I must also mention my gorgeous 'new' vintage flowery tablecloth and Brabantia tin (top pic)... ordered from Dutch HandMaid Liset who now has the sweetest little shop of vintage treasures and of course her own beautifully handmade textiles on Etsy!! This spells trouble for me but I love...

The "ugly" pillow project

2010-03-06T15:23:00.000-08:00

I started what my girls have dubbed "the ugly pillow project". I am using an old vintage 70's pattern and must admit that the picture is somewhat horrendous. But see, when I picture it in my head it just does not look like that. Not with browns and oranges looking all retro seventies. Kind of like the one I found on Etsy! (bottom picture, soooo love that pillow)

So I will bravely continue to crochet and will proudly open the book to the offending page, even while enduring snickers and eye rolling from my girls... :)

Erica Tanov spring 2010

2010-03-02T20:59:00.000-08:00

Yet another gorgeous 60-70's inspired collection from Erica Tanov...

Vintage tapestry purse

2010-03-01T13:16:00.000-08:00

Unbelievable, but I bought this gorgeous vintage tapestry purse for only $5! It was love at first sight... And how about my other thrifted treasure? A filet crochet tablecloth with flowers that must have taken a very brave and talented woman months to crochet. I love...

Humanoid

2010-02-24T21:52:00.000-08:00

I am so crazy about the Dutch Humanoid brand... So very simple and yet so very inspiring (and absolutely timeless). Simple jersey dress/tunic + tights + boots. Perfect. Pictures above are from their past collections as well as their new spring collection.

Spring is here!?!

2010-02-21T17:06:00.000-08:00

Unbelievably warm. It feels like Spring. Cherry blossoms have exploded and are a sea of pinks. Absolutely gorgeous. Not the greatest Winter Olympic weather but we are loving it nevertheless. Annie and I went out to take some pictures today, she on her scooter and no jacket. It was so nice out she threw herself on the grass providing me with a sweet scene for a picture.

I had fun messing around with some seventies feel Photoshop actions, the ones I used for the pics above were created by Pretty As a Picture on Deviant Art.

Fröken Ö Style

2010-02-16T21:20:00.000-08:00

I have been loving Swedish Josefin's blog, Fröken Ö, for quite some time. It is always a beautiful, almost poetic read but the imagery of her world is breathtaking. A world filled with adorably smoochable children (including a brand new baby boy born just a few weeks ago!) and an absolutely gorgeous drool worthy home filled with vintage treasures. A woman of impeccable style.

I had a very tough time cutting the amount of images I wanted to post down to a reasonable amount (haha, I know, maybe not so reasonable but you know me and posting massive amounts of pictures) since I love them all. So for those who have not yet discovered Josefin's blog (not many of you I am sure) go check out the inspiring pictures I was forced to leave behind...

Valentine hearts

2010-02-13T18:37:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines day everyone! I never make this day a big all out production, but did see it as a great excuse to whip up some knitted hearts for the girls. With some tiny granny squares sewed on. Great pattern with no seams, only 4 tiny stitches to close. Fun!

Will watch more of the Olympics this weekend, seeing as its practically happening in our back yard so to speak. (a ferry ride away actually but close enough) I did finally catch the Olympic bug watching the opening ceremonies last night. :)

Still a crush on Hunter boots

2010-02-09T17:36:00.000-08:00

Can't help it. I still have a major crush on Hunter rain boots. Such a major splurge that I have not been able to buy any yet, I do have my priorities straight. But oh, how I would love a pair. Tall black ones. With a tunic dress and over the knee socks...

Gorgeous pics top to bottom: Ann Marie Whittaker, Shelba, the workroom, Kelli Jane Photography, The Budget Babe, bheuer.

Around the kitchen..

2010-02-07T13:21:00.000-08:00

Some 'around the kitchen' pics... loving my 'new' thrifted lace curtain... working on knitted valentine hearts...

Way more Friedamaria

2010-02-03T20:58:00.000-08:00

More gorgeous inspiration from Friedamaria... now there's an online shop as well!

Protters en Pronkjes

2010-02-02T20:03:00.000-08:00

Such a wonderful surprise! Elske and Wimke of the Dutch blog Protters en Pronkjes wrote the sweetest and most flattering article about my blog! I most definitely felt ego-stroked and very much like a superstar blogger for a minute. I liked it. A lot. :)

Protters and Pronkjes reports on cool, hip products and websites, including news and updates about their own brand Joeperdepoepske. Lots of knitting, crochet (!!) and everything else I like. Thanks Elske and Wimke!!

Heart baby sweater

2010-01-31T12:50:00.000-08:00

Is there anything cuter and more fun than knitting for baby? Thought not. There seems to be a baby explosion happening around me and I am trying to whip up some cute little sweaters for gift giving. This one was a 'try out the pattern' test run (with hearts of course) and turned out sweet. I like the rolled up neck and edges, nice and casual. It is a seamless pattern, knitted completely in the round. I love seamless. I hate seaming. :) Now I will knit some with the 'good yarn'. This pattern is the Buddy Sweater from Anny Purls. (lots of other cute patterns available also)

Pierrot Japanese crochet patterns

2010-01-30T08:37:00.000-08:00

I discovered a cute little Japanese online yarn store, Pierrot, during my Japanese pattern searches that posts patterns for free! The patterns above are all available as PDF downloads. The link I provided takes you to the patterns page, just click on the banners to view the patterns available. Using Google translations helps to cruise around the site to a point. Since I don't read Japanese I only downloaded crochet patterns with diagrams... have fun!

Marimekko Spring 2010

2010-01-27T20:19:00.000-08:00

Oh sigh... and another deep sigh... Happy spring Marimekko time! Enough said. Drooltime. :)

Japanese cape/poncho project underway!!

2010-01-27T07:50:00.000-08:00

I started the cape/poncho pattern from my japanese craft book! I am so excited. This will be mine. Not a gift, not for the girls, but mine, all mine. :) I bought the lightest, iciest color grey merino wool. It is so soft and so yummie. The block was a breeze to crochet. Was a bit afraid of perhaps not being able to follow the diagram, but it turned out to be very clear and concise. Eleven more blocks to go!!

Sewing Japanese Style

2010-01-25T18:12:00.000-08:00

A delicious late night scouring of the Amazon.jp website, this time collecting my favorite Japanese sewing book pictures. Of which there are many as you can see. Must sew a dress/tunic this spring. Just jump in and do it. :) I know, I know, finish my freshly started cape/poncho and other things first.

White lace scarf

2010-01-24T08:42:00.000-08:00

Just finished my latest lacy scarf. I received 2 balls of the most gorgeous white peruvian yarn for Christmas and decided they must be transformed into a thick chunky lace scarf. With a crocheted picot edging. Just picked a random lacy looking stitch pattern and threw a crocheted border on it and it actually turned out how I had visualized it in my head. Love it when that happens. (unlike the unfortunate events of 'The Heart Hat') Had to take the picture with my favorite white tunic top and well worn ancient boots. Love this outfit, could it get more comfortable? Obviously I also wear bottoms with this ensemble but that speaks for itself. :)

Leusden Eurowoningen

2010-01-19T20:43:00.000-08:00

How fun is this. I found this old picture of my sister and I practicing the recorder (me looking up), and my mom watering plants in our brand new Leusden Eurowoning in the early seventies. These homes were quite the big deal back then, I remember the 'grand opening' well.

Check out the lowered ceiling with set in spotlights (build by dad), hanging plants (a must), not to mention my mom's incredibly cool outfit! I remember the house had brown shag carpet, orange couch, purple accents everywhere, and the red kitchen. Can you see the Belgium glass jars on the windowsill? I collect them now!! Way too fun.

I did a quick search for Eurowoningen in Leusden and found the picture below on the Leusden historic site. Sweet.

Odd Molly Spring 2010

2010-01-18T21:14:00.000-08:00

Never seem to love all of the Odd Molly collection but always like a few pieces. Can't really go wrong with vintagy lacy lingerie, crochet, and embroidered summery dresses...

Crocheted chair pad

2010-01-16T15:50:00.000-08:00

Finally a day for a "photo-shoot" and some blog updates. The girls are busy 'doing their own thing' and so out of the way while I turn the kitchen upside down to convert into a 'studio' of sorts. Loving this quiet time even more knowing it rarely happens. To top it all off we actually had some sun today! Its been a while since we've seen the sun and what a treat it was. (yes, I probably should have been enjoying it outside, not from inside the kitchen)

Finished a bunch of projects this week, including the chair pad above. Used the crochet square pattern from Garnstudio and just sort of crocheted the rest around the chair pad eyeballing it, love how it turned out. I really wanted something very seventies looking, which is why I chose the brown yarn. Now you know nobody actually gets to sit on this, right? (to great disappointment of my oldest who almost did to 'try it out' and was immediately informed otherwise) As if.

Rice spring 2010

2010-01-11T20:26:00.000-08:00

Oh happy days! New Rice spring 2010 catalog full of the usual colorful brightness and happiness. Feels like spring... ok, maybe not, but it sure makes us yearn for spring. But not too soon, I still have a lot of winter knitting to do!!

Heart hat

2010-01-10T16:19:00.000-08:00

The girls have been begging me for slouchy hats with hearts. Finished hat number one and proudly handed it to my oldest who immediately puts it on her head... hmmmm, maybe not. Too tight!! Tried it on Annie with her small head, still no go... Silly me, made the number one mistake when carrying yarn across the back and did not leave enough stretch factor... Lesson learned. Carry on. Love knitting hearts and the next one will be spectacular. And will fit...

Capes and ponchos Japanese style

2010-01-07T21:08:00.000-08:00

I have never really been a poncho or cape girl... but pretty sure I am changing my mind thanks to yummy knitted and crocheted capes and ponchos in Japanese craft books. The problem now is having to choose just one... think I am leaning towards the grey oversize granny square version above. With boots or clogs?!? Yes! I can picture it now. I bet it whips up super fast with thick yarn...

A rainbow of stitches

2010-01-04T19:47:00.000-08:00

I picked up this book at the bookstore just before Christmas and completely fell head over heels. Yes, I sort of bought it and wrapped it and put it under the tree with my name on it. And then acted very surprised with lots of oohs and aahs when I unwrapped it.

The book is called A Rainbow of Stitches by Agnes Delage-Calvet, Anne Sohier-Fournel, Muriel Brunet and Francoise Ritz. Gorgeous photography by Frederic Lucano. I have not done any embroidery for years but am itching to pick up a needle and thread again and am oh so determined to start a small embroidery project asap. Gorgeous, right?

Big fat knitted cowl

2010-01-02T15:32:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to everyone! Hard to believe the Christmas season is over... it flew by. The girls go back to school next week and they are not quite impressed with that prospect. No more lazy days free to do everything or just nothing at all. :) We are trying to savor every last hour before monday morning.

I have been working on lots of small projects lately. A little knitting and some crochet thrown in as well. Quick satisfaction projects. Loved knitting the big cowl above, used a triple strand and it honestly knitted itself. Annie volunteered to model and I must say she is turning into quite the expert. Not a peep, even with yarn tickling her face the entire time! I am very lucky with my in house models indeed. Can't wait to wear the cowl, nice and warm and cozy.

Black knitted and crocheted lace...

2009-12-28T17:44:00.000-08:00

I am just finishing up my fourth and last day off work... not quite ready to go back. Nothing better than staying home puttering around. I am glad this is another short week due to New Years day. I also took quite the blogging break... I must admit I have barely touched my computer, not even to surf and visit my very most favorite blogs. Looking forward to catching up. Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas!

Speaking of catching up, I have been busy completing projects that should have been finished for Christmas... oops. Mom, cover your eyes now and sooooo sorry you had to wait for your parcel!! While doing so I believe I have also fallen in love with black lace. I knitted a black lace Louisa Harding shawl for mom and love how it turned out. Then I crocheted a trial black doily from a crochet pattern book my sister sent me for Christmas. I MUST do more black crochet. Love... Need to get some finer black yarn though... this one is a bit too thick for my liking but looks great hanging on the wall together with the white vintage potholder I found in my stocking. (yes, that was sneaky of me but sometimes Santa needs a little help) :)

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T23:27:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone a very happy Christmas!! Stockings are filled, presents are under both trees, and in just a few short hours the fun starts!!

Found this adorable picture of my parents, sister and I celebrating kerst in Amsterdam, I think it must have been 1966. Love it...

Completed knitted Christmas balls

2009-12-23T07:08:00.000-08:00

Finished my small collection of white knitted Christmas balls! Was searching for just the right bowl and got lucky when I found this vintage crystal one at the thrift store. I was going to hang some of the balls but decided against it, really enjoying them on the coffee table.

Christmas is almost here!! Hard to believe since the time suddenly went so very fast. The girls are suitably nervous and excited, haha. Two more sleeps!!

Grateful for special people...

2009-12-21T20:53:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe an entire week has gone by without a post. I was sick (which I do not ever have the patience for anyways) and I honestly feel like I have lost a week. Who loses a week??? Especially a week just before Christmas. I think I am all better now and I feel 'here' again. Thank goodness. My girlies are thankful too since Christmas just wasn't feeling like Christmas with a space cadet mother laying on the couch pretty much out of it. Mom on the couch?? Without knitting or crochet no less?? Without a computer??? Worrisome times for sure. :)

There is always a bright side to everything, true in this case as well. Since I was home sick I was actually home to answer the doorbell and receive a very special parcel from the mailman. Jeannette from Sans Soucis (who is Dutch but lives in Germany) mailed me 2 incredible Dutch magazines: Flow and VT Wonen! Who does this? Who spoils someone they only know via the blog universe?? Jeannette, thank you so very much!! You have no idea how exciting it was to open the beautiful polkadotted wrapping paper and find the gorgeous magazines inside. The timing could not have been better either. Well, maybe not for the poor mailman who had to hand me the parcel and I am sure did not want to catch what I had... But I got to cuddle up cozy and read Dutch words and ads!! :) No wonder I am all better now...

Irma Studio winter wonderland

2009-12-13T18:54:00.000-08:00

Have loved these images by Irma Sharikadze (Irma Studio) for quite some time. A modern, icy colored winter wonderland. Check out the gorgeous crocheted accessories!! Sooo love...

Christmas 'mobile'

2009-12-09T20:43:00.000-08:00

I've seen so many inspirational wire lampshade mobiles on the web I had to create my own. A wintery white one with crochet hearts, flowers, vintage lace and reindeer (the girls tell me he is evil due to his beady red eyes but I am paying no attention whatsoever and think he is very sweet), and my treasured birdy ornaments. Not quite finished but well underway. It is tying in the vintage fabric trees and crocheted ornaments on the wooden tree quite nicely. Oh, and I did get suckered into buying a little 'real' tree, no way were the girls going to be satisfied with the wood one only.... :)

Christmas white plus color

2009-12-08T17:46:00.000-08:00

White only? White with bright pops of color? Who can choose, really? Images from VT Wonen, Bolig, next 2 Living Etc., bottom 2 Rie Elise Larsen. Loving stripey stockings...

Wooden Christmas tree and crocheted ornaments!

2009-12-06T17:26:00.000-08:00

Remember how desperate I was for the Dutch BOOOM Christmas tree? I must have yammered on about it quite a bit because my wonderful sweet boyfriend came home with a big old wooden pallet on his back and said to 'clear the kitchen because I am building you a tree'. After a lot of sweat, groaning (he said to take out the groaning and replace it with 'listening to heavy metal music' which is actually very true), and sawing (with a handsaw no less) he presented me with my tree. Is there a better Christmas present? Nope. Not a one. I am in wooden Christmas tree heaven. (And a little bit of boyfriend heaven as well, because lets face it, this is quite the sweet gesture)

I immediately yanked out the yarn and got busy crocheting flowers and hearts to decorate my dear tree. I added some vintage rick rack to hang them and love how it turned out. With all the other color going on in my house, including my vintage fabric trees, I love how it is rough and plain looking. The soft white and beige yarn soften it just enough. Just how I had pictured it in my head!

More (white) Christmas inspiration

2009-12-03T21:04:00.000-08:00

I know, how hard am I trying when I keep posting inspiration from one source? But I am trying, I am! So even though I might be taking the 'easy way out' cause work is just not leaving me much spare time right now and I barely have time to knit or decorate for Christmas or blog or... okay, got a bit carried away and I will stop my rant now. Seriously though, I truly love these pictures and had to post more from Taverne Agency. :)

Frédérique Morrel's vintage tapestry pieces

2009-12-02T22:03:00.000-08:00

Loving the footstools, pillows, and trays made from re-purposed vintage tapestries by Frédérique Morrel, a husband and wife team. Gorgeous. Am looking all over the thrift stores and Etsy for vintage needlepoint pieces right now so I can incorporate into a pillow. Or even to just have a beautiful, tiny piece to display on the wall... So very pretty.

Christmas display inspiration

2009-11-30T21:27:00.000-08:00

How could I resist posting more beautiful images from Taverne Agency? Photography by Jim Hensley (top) and Nathalie Krag (all others).

First batch of knitted Christmas balls

2009-11-29T20:22:00.000-08:00

I am having so much fun knitting up these balls. I discovered I can crank out one per night. Three down so far and have quite a few more to go since I want enough to fill a bowl. More shades of white and perhaps a few more shades of soft lavender? I think it will look pretty...

Snowflakes and doilies

2009-11-26T21:16:00.000-08:00

Gorgeous white paper snowflake and lacy doily inspiration! White is soooo beautiful.

Top to bottom: Taverne Agency, Martha Stewart, Lobster and Swan, Ravenhill, Burda, VT Wonen.