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I used a space-dyed red yarn that I got last year from a Ravelry swap. I really like the way it came out. For whatever reason, it seems to have made the sweater look more “real”. Perhaps its the contrast with the regular yarn of the dog’s body. I used blanket stitch embroidery around his eye patch to make it stand out. I finished him off with an egglplant-colored scarf. He looks so cozy.

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Branching is an easy and useful technique. There are two ways to create a branching effect: add a branch to the current round by crocheting in the back loop only or separating the current round into two branches. I used both methods for this project.

To create the little nub branch (where the blossom sits in the picture, simply decide how large of a branch you want to create. For example, let’s say you have a round of 24 stitches, and you’d like to make a branch that is 6 stitches in circumference. Crochet along until you get to where you’d like the branch to sit. Place a stitch marker into the next stitch. Crochet in the back loop only (the loop farthest from you) of this stitch and the following 5 stitches (6 sts total). Then crochet into the first of the 6 stitches (the stitch with the marker you just placed). Continue around this new mini-round until your branch reaches its desired size. To resume the main body, begin again by putting a loop on your hook with a slip stitch, then inserting your hook into the front loop where you began your little nub branch. Continue in the front loop for the next 5 stitches, then resume working in both stitches for the rest of the round.

To create the larger branch, you’ll divide the round. For example, let’s say you have a round of 24 stitches and you’d like to split it evenly into 2 branches of 12 stitches each. Place a stitch marker at the beginning of the round, and crochet into that stitch and the following 11 (12 stitches total). Make your next crochet into the first stitch of the round (where you just placed the stitch marker). Continue around this new mini-round until your branch reaches its desired size. Put a loop on your hook with a slip stitch, then insert the hook into the first stitch of the remaining 12 stitches and repeat. You now have 2 equal branches.

This second technique is commonly used for making the legs of a doll branch from its body, but you can also use it to create uneven branches (as illustrated with my tree branch above). Enjoy!

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I haven’t had nearly enough time this week to crochet. I spent the majority of the week managing a sudden flurry of interest in my jewelry (yay!). Left Bank designs will be arriving shortly at Renegade Handmade headquarters in Chicago! I’ve been a long-time fan Renegade Handmade, both the show and the store. My earrings have now found a home at their Wicker Park boutique to be displayed alongside some of my favorite artists (APAK!). They’ll also be for sale on their website; I’ll post an update when they’re available.

Closer to home, Coupa Cosas in Palo Alto will also be carrying a selection of Left Bank designs including earrings and pins. Coupa Cosas (which means “objects of desire”) is a little treasure. It’s filled with wonderful, handmade accessories of the highest calibre. I’m thrilled to have been asked to be included in their collection.

I’m looking forward to picking up the hook again this week to put the finishing touches on a couple of seasonal designs. Check back soon!

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Thank you to everyone who took the time to check out my new shop and to enter the sweepstakes.

Check back soon for future giveaways!

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Once I’ve selected the winner, I will contact her or him via the email address provided. The winner will need to respond within 24 hours with a mailing address, or another winner will be selected. This sweepstakes follows California law; void where prohibited.

Good luck, and enjoy the long weekend!

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The cupcake measures in at just over 3 inches tall from the bottom to the top of the cherry exclusive of the stem.

The cupcakes would make a perfect birthday present, hostess gift (especially to tuck away for holiday parties), or anytime treat for someone you love.

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The index finger on my non-hook hand had been rubbed raw by my (beloved) aluminum hook until I found these clever little thimbles. They are soft, flexible and made from silicone. Slip one on the injured digit, and you’re sure to be working in comfort from now on.

The silicone material is similar to what you’d find in a baby’s pacifier, only softer, thinner and more flexible. Net result: you have a second skin that doesn’t get in the way of your crafting.

The thimbles measure about 1″ in length. They fit comfortably but snugly on my fingertip, ring size 7 US.

You’ll receive a set of 3 clean, new silicone thimbles. Keep one in your craft room, one in your crochet or knitting bag, and one by the sewing machine. Enjoy!

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