Nana Sue's Crafts

New Store , New Site

2010-09-20T06:11:00.000+10:00

I Am excited with the opening of craftumi, a sister store for Madeit.

Craftumi is madeit's sister site for buying and selling supplies and equipment used in the creation of art and craft projects.

Craftumi is the perfect place to find supplies for your next art or craft project from painting to scrapbooking, from card making to jewellery making.

I have listed my patterns and appliques at

Http://www.craftumi.com.au/CrochetAppliquePatterns

Visit craftumi for all your craft supplies.

I also have and opening special 3 Patterns for $9.00

http://www.craftumi.com.au/detail.asp?id=979

For great materials why not have a look at

I just love that Fabric

Patterns in progress

2010-03-11T05:16:00.000+11:00

I finally got around to typing up one of my patterns and listed it on Etsy.
I would like to give a big thank you to Christine Percy AKA cpercydesign her suggestions on how to format the patterns were most helpful.
I gave the pattern to a few people to test as had both USA and English versions that need testing.
Christine was the only one that responded, I guess the other "testers" really were just after a free pattern.
I havent spent any time promoting the item yet but have been lucky to have sold two patterns already.
This has encouraged me to type up more patterns and sell.
I have just finished the Elephant pattern.
I included a lot more photo's with this one as it is a little harder to explain the process.
I am surprised at how long it takes me to translate the pattern from my dots and dashes to something that makes sense!
I think selling the patterns will solve the problems of sales of childrens items to USA!
I know we can sell without testing but when I receive requests from there for wholesale items, the sale does not seem to go through , once I advise I am not testing the items.

Selling the pattern makes it easier, I have no problems with someone selling an item which has my appliques added to it , so long as they dont sell the pattern or the actual appliques online.
Back to typing more patterns.

Felted, maybe

2010-02-07T17:00:00.000+11:00

Well the felting isnt going as good as hoped.
Am upcycling some old woollen jumpers.
First one went wonderful and felted very quickly.
Second was very fluffy and unfortunately the bag came undone in the wash...hairy clothes anyone?
Ok so have now decided to use the portable washing machine, maybe slower but much less mess.
I did wonder about picking up one of those hand crank machines I saw on ebay, but will still think about that one.
The felting takes so long to dry and I really do want to get into the sewing of the first phone cover.
I also felted some woollen flowers to attatch to one of the phone covers but got a bit over enthused and the flower has over felted.
Still I may use it as it looks good and a few beads added should do the trick.
No pictures yet. will post when I have some to show.
Am also busy creating my craft swap item but couldnt get any emerald green cotton to use.
Thanks Kylie I will pick up on Monday.
Will also post some picks when that is finished as well.

Dragon begone

2010-02-05T06:10:00.000+11:00

For anyone that follows me on facebook, you will know about the dragon saga.
I decided to try and make a dragon applique.
First attempt I was not happy but thats why one makes a prototype.
Got some great suggestions from friends on face book and finally was happy with the wing.
The body still no happy.
The first dragon had been created in single crochets , very fine hook and took a couple of days to create.
This didnt seem a viable option if I ever planned to sell one.
Back to the drawing board and a new dragon in double crochet was created.
With a few more suggestions from friends I tweaked the body pattern.
So now I have a wing I like and a body I like, combine the two and I should be happy right?
Wrong , now I dont like the leg, another suggestion was embroider a leg, still not happy .
I have decided maybe its just me and left the poor dragon alone just as he is.
I have other items I am currently wanting to work on, including a phone cover , upcycled , felted and then my appliques added.
Wonder how many attempts that will take till I am happy.

Stay tuned!

A few appliques I have been working on

2010-01-15T15:06:00.002+11:00

Haven't been doing much crochet until this week. Just couldn't get in the mood and lack of sleep contributed to the lack of concentration. I have several unfinished works in progress with the main one being a applique dragon, just cant get the wing the way I want it.
When I get that way I find it easier to simply put it away for a few days and return with a clear mind.
On a brighter note I told the Dr I wanted to return to work and he has given me permission, the physio will review this plan on Wednesday and see how I am going. Work are great they said if I last an hour thats ok, if I last the day even better, just take it one day at a time.
Had a lovely day today for my birthday , with Kylie and Liam coming over for cake and as a bonus Nikita remember my birthday and rang. That made my day.
We did nothing really as both too tired to go out, but out holidays have now all be confirmed for may, travel, insurance, car and accomodation, all done.
It may be early but I like to be prepared and now we can spend the next few months planning just where we want to go. Managed to book a house in Perth cheaper than motel or even caravan parks - neer know might be able to convince someone else of the need for a holiday.

More applique designs

2009-12-23T10:10:00.000+11:00

Well my plans to return to work by 31st seemed to have gone. The Doctor meant the 31st January and somehow I heard 31st December. After my visit with the physio yesterday I now understand better, given its both my front and back of knee the surgery was done on and the severe arthritis it will take longer. No sleep last night but it was my first physio so I guess I will catch up on some sleep today.

Have been busy working on a few new applique designs including gecko, spaceship and more turtles. With no plans for Christmas and travel being very uncomfortable, I will have heaps of time to get some more appliques completed. I was disappointed I could not go to the market but the pain at that time was unbearable. Ah well there is another one in January.
Here are some samples of my latest appliques.

I would also like to wish every one a Very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you all.

An idea I am working on

2009-12-15T15:47:00.005+11:00

Have spent hours listing all my crochet cottons. (It would have been easier if I only purchased one brand of cotton) now having updated the list I have been trying to work out how to make my applique interactive.
Wasted most of today with it so have now decided simply to upload the picture with the suggestion if you want to play around with the colors then copy to ms paint and using color selector change the alternative colors.

Great way to see how the colors will look Let me know if it works.
If any one knows a program that allows the coloring in I would love to know.
Why not have a try and if you want to order some appliques then visit me at www.madeit.com.au/nanasue

To Market ...to market

2009-11-30T16:48:00.000+11:00

Well I made it to my first market on Friday night and survived.
I didnt sell that much but at the same time I did make a profit so have decided to go back again.
I learnt a lot from the market, including dont overcrowd my table.
Next market is on the 20th December and whilst that will only give me just over a week to recover from surgery, I am looking forward to it.
I would love it if more people from Melbourne attended and am sure as the market continues it will grow in popularity.
Hats and appliques seemed popular and toys not soo.
Next market will concentrate on the Hats and appliques and maybe only display a few Paintpot Pals.
I wonder is it because the stall is at the RSL that everyone thinks its for retired people, thats not the case. It may be held in the rsl room but the selections of crafts and even new items are great.
I think the co-ordinator has done an excellent job and the added drawcard of an indoor market makes it perfect for those people who dont want to be wind burnt, sun burnt or frost burnt.

If you live in Melbourne drop in on 20 December at the Chelsea Market.
Why not even come up and say Hi , I dont bite and you dont have to buy to say hi.

Cute little tees

2009-11-20T23:33:00.000+11:00

Finally finished the Three Little Applique Tee- Shirts for my grandsons.I have used some of my appliques as some not yet listed,

New Crochet Elephant Appliques

2009-11-15T17:00:00.000+11:00

Have just finished the first set of crochet appliques. Boys colors are the basis for the first set.( not that girls cant use them also)
I think by the end the needle and thread went into my finger more the the cotton.
Pain killers at least numbed that pain, why cant they work on the part they are meant to.
This morning I had great intentions of uploading on both www.madeit.com.au/nanasue and www.nanasue.etsy.com all my appliques.
I think I may have been just a little bit ambitious and forgot to take the pain factor in today.
Hopefully by tomorrow after work the pain will subside and I can get working on the owls and the turtles.
I also have a couple of tees I really want to get finished for my three gorgeous grandsons so they may take priority.
Will wait and see.

I have another plan to include dinosaurs but that is another work in progress and a clear head is definitely required when designing the pattern. So far I can see the picture in my head but not on paper.

I find it frustrating the I cant put onto paper and then pattern all the ideas in my head. Pity they usually pop in around 2 am.

Another is a cat with tail curling around a flower stem. Would look cute on a babies Top. At least I have drawn that on a sticky note only need to turn into a pattern . It may not be a seller but I enjoy creating the patterns.

And the Winners Are

2009-11-15T10:48:00.000+11:00

Congratulations to Beckie who will receive the boy appliques and Leesa who is the lucky winner of the girl appliques.
New Appliques will be posted on my sites shortly and for the next week anyone who entered the competition can purchase a set of appliques and receive one free.
Free applique will be either elephant, bird or owl in color or your choice. Elephant and owl sets will also soon be added and will be available in a choice of colors.
Have decided to sell them with the option of colors at present to save me time and money.
This way I only have to create one of each color and will create your appliques when you order.
I will also be offering the choice of either Bead for eye or an embroidered eye.
Beads can be dangerous for babies and they do like to chew.
Back to the hooks and threads for now and hopefully more pictures to come later.

Take 2 birds

2009-11-11T17:28:00.000+11:00

Take 2 birds.
Add a Tee-Shirt of your choice and color.
Don't forget a cute button or bow.
And a length of crochet cotton in your choice of color.
Tracing Paper
First you will need to copy the Heart shape and enlarge to fit the size of the Tee-shirt you have selected.
For Size 0 - I used a heart 3 inches x 3 inches.
Print out heart diagram . Trace this onto fine tracing paper and pin to Tee-shirt.
Now the fun part -
Crochet 2 chain cords the length of each side of heart . Sew ends off.
Pin cords around heart pattern and using a back stitch and either same colored thead or if you prefer a little different try a different color, sew chains to front of tee .
Backstitch.gif.
Next sew either a bright button or bow in centre of heart. ( this covers the join as well).

Position the birds over the out side ends of heart and attach with a back stitch. To give a raised edge I prefer to Backstitch item inside the edging of motif.

wow 100 fans on facebook

2009-11-11T17:09:00.001+11:00

Wow it may not be much to some but for me 100 fans on face book is a big deal.
To Celebrate I am giving away 2 applique sets.

One for boys -
The second set has been created with the current heat in mind

All you need to do is leave a comment on my fan page stating how you would use the appliques and if you want the girl or boy applique.
Don't use face book??? then check out my appliques here, at www.madeit.com.au/nanasue or www.nanasue.etsy.com. then come back here and leave a message.
Winner announced on Sunday! Australian time.

New Baby appliqued Tee Shirt

2009-11-10T09:04:00.000+11:00

Have been busy crocheting appliques and decided to try a couple of baby tees, featuring my appliques.
I have finished 2 little Tee's a size ) and size 1. Each applique has been hand sewn to the purchased T.
I think I prefer the creating of the appliques rather than the sewing. Its been years since I have sewn and I think I remember why. My fingers started to ache and I managed to stick the needle in my fingers more than the fabric.
It bought back memories of all the times I spent sitting over a machine sewing toys and clothing for friends.
The markets and sales I made saw me through many rough times when my girls were young.
It seems that once I managed to find full time employment my creative side seemed to take a rest.
I still enjoyed sewing, knitting and crochet but just not the sales side. I dont think much has changed to be honest. The children have grown and have children of their own. I have a house full of handcrafts but doing the markets all seems to hard.
Now I not only craft for pleasure, I use it as a therapy. When my pains get bad I try to focus on the craft and even when my hands and elbows ache its amazing how a whole day can simply fly past while I am crocheting.
On a brighter note would love some feedback on this little Tee

New Baby appliqued

2009-11-10T08:50:00.001+11:00

Working on some crochet patterns

2009-10-22T05:38:00.001+11:00

Have been a little slack with blogging lately but dont think anyone would have noticed.
With some encouragement from Kylie I have been trying to write up my patterns.
It all seems so hard. I know what to do but to explain to another person is difficult.
Yesterday I saw the cutest owl picture and decided to try and turn this into a crochet pattern.
Whilst its still a work in progress, I decided to contact the owner of the website and get her permission.
She responded and advised me that was ok.

Currently I am working on creating a smaller version of the owl and think putting a flower instead of the hearts on them?
I love creating the appliques and wish I could get as enthused with creating the patterns or promoting and selling the items.
Now what other creations would people like to see created in a crochet applique??

craft market soon

2009-08-26T05:21:00.002+10:00

Not much blogging
Have been very busy trying to create more items for a craft market I am going to with my daughter.
Its been years since I did a craft market, and last time I think my daughter was about 4 years old.
I am sure that markets have changed a bit since then.
I am looking forward to it.
Am eagerly awaiting my new banner, business cards and avatar that I have ordered via alchemy on etsy. It was my first alchemy request and I was amazed at the quality of the bids . Such a talented group of etsians.
I have also created a couple of new Paintpots but decided not to list anything until after the market. Who knows I may actually make a couple of sales.

Small applique Butterflies

2009-07-24T09:39:00.020+10:00

Small Butterfly Appliques

Materials:-

Small amounts of 4ply cotton thread.
2.00mm crochet hook.

You can use any thickness of thread, adjusting hook to suit.

Abbreviation - see directions below pattern

Ch = chain
Sc = single crochet
Slst = slip stitch
Dc = Double crochet
Dtr = Double treble
Pc= Picot

Using contrast.
Body.
Commence with 8 ch
Sc in second ch from hook and next 3 ch ( 4sc in total), work 3ch fasten off. This creates second antennae.

Using main color.
Wings

Join in 1st sc of body. (Note wings are worked on both sides of sc in body)

Into this sc work (5 ch , 1 dtr, 3ch , slst in 1st ch,(picot made),1 dtr, 5ch ,1 slst ) Top wing made.

Slst in next chain- work (3ch,1 dc, 1 picot,1 dc, 3ch, slst) in same ch.

Draw up a large loop, inserting hook into 3rd sc on opposite side, take loop under body and draw through sc.

Into this sc work (3ch, 1dc,1 picot,1dc,3ch, slst)

Slst into next sc.

Work 5ch, 1dtr,1pc,1dtr,5ch ,slst.

Fasten off.Sew off threads- one butterfly created.

Note if you prefer you can fasten of after lower wing has been created and rejoin into 3rd sc with slst on opposite side of sc.

Pattern is for personal use only and not for resale.

For more detailed descriptions of stitches refer to CrochetPatternCentral.

http://www.crochetpatterncentral.com/directory/stitches.php -note dtr will be found under trebles.

Following stitches are required.

Chain stitch (ch)-
Yarn over hook and pull through loop

Slip stitch (slst)
Insert hook into stitch, yarn over hook and draw up a loop through both the stitch and the
loop on your hook. (sl st completed)

Double crochet (dc)
Yarn over hook, insert hook into stitch yarn over hook and draw up a loop. (3 loops on hook)
Yarn over and draw through 2 loops on your hook. (2 loops left on the hook)
Yarn over and draw through the last 2 loops on your hook. (1dc completed)

Double trebles (dtr)-
Yarn over hook three times, then insert hook into ch or sc.
Yarn over hook and draw yarn through stitch - five loops on the hook.
Loop yarn over hook and draw through two loops, (there are now four loops remaining on the hook),
*yarn over hook and draw through two loops**, repeat * to ** twice more. (1dtr completed)

Picot stitch (pc)
Ch 3, slip stitch in 3rd chain from hook. (1pc completed)

Another Idea

2009-07-22T06:25:00.002+10:00

I have noticed just when I start concentrating on a series of items, my brain starts to wander and I am off making something different.
I was very busy last week creating a few brooches and appliques and then decided why not put them onto a cushion.
I have had some bright cushion fabric for a while with good intentions to create cushions but of course that got put on the back burner for something else.
Last night whilst sorting out my craft I came across numerous items started and then left for another day.
I am wondering if another day ever comes around.
I remember when I first started on my partner about needing a small craft section in the house.
I have changed my mind now. I need a whole craft house!
Ah well there is another big lotto coming up am sure if I win I could afford a craft house.
Or another option would be to simple sell some of the items I have created.
Thats another thing I will get around too..... one day.
Oh just had another idea.......
Will be back to blog later....

Ooops

2009-07-19T09:07:00.005+10:00

What I ended up with

I decided last night to finish a Paintpot bear I had been working on.
I had lost interest in this bear as I didn't like the colors that much but thought ah well finish it anyway.
There was a couple of shows on TV that I wanted to catch up on so why not sit down crochet and watch television.
One problem, my pattern requires me to wear magnifying glasses and I cant see the TV with them on. I decided to risk it after all its my pattern and I am sure I can remember a pattern I actually created.
Well I didn't (maybe the cold and flu tablets numbed my brain), I added the eyes and thought I didn't remember having this much trouble inserting eyes before.
I then started to stuffed the head and realized the head was definitely stuffed.
The bear has turned into a mouse.
Why, how ? I am not sure but a big guess is that the TV had more interest that the bear so I missed a few rows

What it should have looked like

Busy, Busy ...busy

2009-07-18T13:14:00.009+10:00

Been very busy lately and to be honest blogging is just one of the many tasks that I have jsut not got around too.
Lately I have been trying a few different ideas out including butterfly mobiles , a few new paint pot pals are in the making. Have also created a couple of brooches.

The items listed below are now available at www.madeit.com.au/nanasue

What I need to work on now is color ideas and still have a few changes I intend to make to the owls and birds, but this all takes time. We have renovations in progress and workmen in and out the house, I will be so glad when that's over.

Featured on Handmade Kids

2009-06-12T19:11:00.002+10:00

Wow just found out my little hat on etsy has been featured on handmadekids.com.au.
As the site says

Handmade products are unique and one of a kind. Buying Australian handmade supports our designers and our economy.

Handmade products are made with love and attention to detail.

Support this site and check out their other finds.

Featured item can be found at www.nanasue.etsy.com or check out my other australian site at www.madeit.com.au/nanasue

Time flies when having fun

2009-05-25T09:21:00.006+10:00

Ok so maybe there hasn't been that much fun.
Work has been busy so blogging hasn't been a high priority.
We went over to New Zealand for a holiday that became even more stressful. How to help and aged relative without taking away their independence. Very hard especially when we live so far away.
Back to real work tomorrow.

Have been busy creating some lovely little butterflies and bees. Not to mention little green frogs.

Baby Bear

2009-02-04T21:38:00.003+11:00

Nearly finished my second bear hat.
The first I added to Etsy and it got me wondering, why do I keep creating things that I never bother to spend the time selling.
I decided I simply enjoy crochet and I think if the items I create are still around in a few years I will have a clean out and give them away to charity.
My items may not be fashionable or cool but they are a great stress relief and so long as I am not intending to give up my day job then I guess I will continue creating and hoping one day someone else gets some enjoyment from my creations.
This latest little hat is perfect for a newborn baby girl and I have nearly finished another little one with brown,orange and green.

And the winner is..................

2009-01-16T16:58:00.004+11:00

Gee this was really hard chosing a winner.
I liked so many of the color suggestions and think I will find myself trying out each flower and combination.

The winning suggestion comes from JewelryInfusions who suggested Chocolate, thistle and beige.

Well done and I will be in contact with the winner shortly.

To all others who suggested thank you and if you should see your color suggestion in my shop and contact me prior to paying, I will give you a 50% discount of the brooch or hair tie. It must be your color suggestion and is for one brooch only. ( discount not available for postage).

Once again thank you every one, this is the first time I have tried a competion and I have enjoyed the suggestions.
Sue

There's sunshine and the flowers are out in bloom- give away

2009-01-07T08:32:00.008+11:00

I have been busy creating some more flowers.
I am having some problems with the colors and will have to seek suggestions from other people.

If there is anyone reading this post , please let me know what colors you would like to see.

Until 15/01/09 (My birthday) I have a give-away running for the best suggested color.

Its not hard to enter just post a suggested color using the color scheme above and I also have metallic, light gold, old gold, red and green.

While your at it why not check out the other Etsy related give aways at http://etsygiveaways.blogspot.com.
Thank you for looking and thank you for your suggestions

Sunny Day

2009-01-05T04:39:00.004+11:00

The sun has been out at last and today it may even reach 30 degrees C.

This has inspired my latest brooch creation.
This brooch is 1.5 inches wide and has double petals with a gold centre.

I have also been working on some single star petal flowers with pictures to come later.

Happy 2009

2009-01-03T07:08:00.003+11:00

Happy New Year everyone and I do hope you all had a Merry Christmas.
My new years resolution is to get back into blogging and hopefully my crafts.
Its been over 6 months since I blogged and to be honest I just haven't had anything to blog about.
It is said new years resolutions are normally broken in 10 days so here's hoping I have something to blog about in the next 10 days.

2008-06-04T05:59:00.005+10:00

Wow it seems ages since I posted, there are just not enough hours in the day. The mornings are getting so cold but still little rain.
I have been sorting all my yarns out and storing them in a more orderly fashion. Still working on getting a craft room but its getting closer every day. My partner is now looking for a shed to store all our honey and beekeeping stuff in and that will free the spare room up for me.
I have been very busy creating and listing items on my etsy site.
Currently I am working on a series of amigurumi animals but am needing advice on the pricing.
They have thread jointed arms,legs and head and are crochet in cotton and between 3 and 4 inches in height. I was selling at $25 each and $40 for the pair but given times are so tough I am not sure that this is too high. What do others think.

Bags times 2

2008-04-27T10:10:00.003+10:00

Finally finished the Two bags. I created one in cotton and the other a tote bag in acrylic. I wish I knew if consumers have a distict preference for cotton or if acrylic is acceptable.

The 2 bags I completed are very different in not only look but stiches. The tote has a mixture of plain double crochet on front white and dc worked in alternating round stitch and back stitch to create a woven look. There is a mix of plain dc and woven dc on the front red insert which also features a packet to carry your phone for easy access.

The Black Bag features a Beetle with beaded antennae and a detachable strap. The bag has both a magnetic clasp and crochet beetle buttons. The strap is red with black spots.

Both Bags are fully lined in the same material, white cotton with red dots.

I want, I want....

2008-04-26T06:54:00.003+10:00

a room for all my crafting. Is it asking much.....

Yesterday my partner had decided to go and check his bees (he's a hobby beekeeper)

so I settled in for a day of crafting. I had three bags I intended to finish before he came home.

Every thing was going fine until I needed the magnetic clasp to attatch before I finished the lining. Could I find it noo...searched everywhere, every bag of craft, every room aI may have stored it in. It got to the point I considered getting changed and driving to the shops and buying some new ones.

Yesterday was a public holiday here and the nearest shop that stocked the clasps was a round trip of over an hour. The petrol tank was on empty so I decided not to risk that and to continue my search. Would you beleive it the very last bag I checked ...I found them.

Just settled back into my crafting when I hear my partner return home. Time to walk the dog, prepare dinner and the day is nearly over. I realised in all my searching I had even forgotten to have lunch.

I have now commenced the "I NEED A CRAFT ROOM" campaign.

First stop Ebay, a quick search found the perfect storage shelves and I placed them on watch, thought I had better tell partner as needed his trailer to collect them.

He can see no problem with my getting the shelving, still no response about him moving his stuff out of the room though. I have pointed out that a craft room would prevent him tripping over all my bags of crafts and have left it at that for the present. I think he is coming around so if I manage to get the shelves then I will plan my next step.

No pictures as no completed items, hopefully next post I will have pics of my new bags.

Holidays were great..until

2008-04-17T19:33:00.003+10:00

This is the view from our unit and the Swan river where we strolled every evening taking in the birdlife and peaceful surrounds
One of the many views from Kings Park
The Pinacles.

we realized we had to come back to earth and return home to face the dread of returning to work next week. To anyone visiting Australia I can recommend Perth and Western Australia.

We stay just out of Perth at Maylands, with a view overlooking the Swan River. Our holiday did not have a planned itinerary and we took each day as it came. A visit to the local information centre provided us with enough ideas to fill our time in WA. Of course you cant go to WA and not try the local wines, our first trip was an indulgence tour of Swan Valley- no driving and lots of tastings, not to mention chocolates and fudge. We spent the next day exploring Pert itself and one place you cannot miss is the parks they truly are great. We also took in the Pinnacles and a few other scenic tours- not to mention a stop of at a lovely fruit winery and a few purchases there. The chance to catch up with friends on the weekend was great and we intend to spend more time in WA next chance we get.

I wish...

2008-03-26T07:24:00.004+11:00

I didn't feel so old and sore as I do at present. I hope everyone had a lovely easter, we spent our Easter spinning and straining honey. Am very happy no bees got me and no emergency trips to hospital this year. I still dont know if my allergy to bees has gone or not but will continue to carry the epi pen just in case.

If my aching back from the weekends work didn't make me feel old the article I read at 5 Minutes for Mum certainly did. It was a great article about a jeans supplier who made jeans to fit you perfectly. That reminded me of how great I once looked in a pair of jeans being 5 foot 10inches and very long legs............ ah well those days are well over as is my weight... maybe I should really look into losing those 30 kilos one of these days... if only my partner wouldn't bring home yummy treats ( hey have to blame someone, its too hard to say no).

On another note I spent all my spare time ( watching honey strain is boring work) surfing the net in search of a bag I had seen at style or maybe instyle, couldn't remember which.

I had printed a small picture but couldn't get my head around the pattern( not the bag the fabric). I had decided I liked the actual printed pattern on this bag and wanted to crochet a different kind of bag with this pattern. After searching some 2000 plus bags on both sites I gave up.

Last night , after work and very tired I sat down to watch the news and picked up the graph pattern and it just came to me. ( I pinched my granddaughers pencils) now have nearly finished creating the design and cant wait to get started. I know I should finish the 2 bags and one kanga I already have on the go... but....

Anyway I enclosed copy of the fabric and if anyone could tell me the designer I would be greatful. My finished product will look nothing like this but I did like the weave in the pattern.

New Purse

2008-03-14T20:44:00.003+11:00

Have just finished another purse, Its an original design and may end up a one of a kind. I included a side pocket to carry a mobile phone and intend to sell it in my shop complete with a phone/card holder. I really should spend more time promoting my shop on etsy but find that I log into etsy.com and spend the rest of the time admiring all the lovely items crochet by other Etsyhookers. May I suggest anyone wanting to view so fantastic crochet items visit http://www.etsy.com/ and search under the Etsyhookers tag. The work is great.

New Bag

2008-03-05T17:41:00.004+11:00

I have just complete an original bag, crochet from acrylic with a magnetic enclosure and lined with cotton. This bag comes complete with a mobile/card holder and an elasticised side pouch. This has been finished of with a crochet flower in white and yellow. Perfect for a bright spring day. Let me know what you think

More Crochet, more toys

2008-02-29T05:18:00.004+11:00

My latest little Rabbit is called bug eyes, named because his little eyes seem to pop out of his head. He is at times a little jittery and has been hoping someone will take him home. The spotlights and bullets flying above his home have caused many sleepless nights.

I have just received my order of crochet cotton (156 balls) and have now had a brain drain and simply cant think of any animals to make. Any suggestions would be welcome, even if its just to get my brain working again. Let me know what you think of bug eyes

Crochet phone

2008-02-17T09:06:00.004+11:00

Just finished my mobile phone cover. I got sick of never being able to find my phone in my bag, it now really stands out. All I have left to do is get some studs so I can attatch it to my belt when I am shopping. I am working on a little piggy for my mp3 player as well. They may not be fashionable but they are bright and certianly will stand out when I am looking for them.

My greenhouse is well on the way to completion now, all the hoops are up and we have put a tempory cover on until we can find someone that sells the plastic, at least now we are no longer feeding the birds and will get to feed ourselves.

Grrrrr to my service provider last night, was bidding on some hydroponic books and the exact time I was about to bid the provider decided to have a hissy fit. We are getting a little sick of OPTUS at the present. Nearly every day now there is something wrong with our access to sites, they respond a week after we contact saying yes there is a problem but its fixed now. Try ringing them,put on hold for over half an hour then they disconnect us, so much for service.

Now I have got that of my chest, hehe let me know what you think of my bear, I also made sure I left a hole for the recharger to pop into.

Hayfever Anyone

2008-02-11T05:43:00.000+11:00

Spent half of Sunday driving around looking for star picket posts, everyone was sold out of the size we wanted. Finally found some and managed to start on the large greenhouse. The small hothouse has had an investation of white fly, so looks like I lost most of my cauli's and cabbages. The birds are back into the tomato's so we spent the afternoon putting up 2 rings of the greenhouse. We called it quits for this weekend so guess the birds get to snack for another week.

Working in the garden gave me hayfever because I forgot to take my allergy tabs first. I haven't had much hayfever this year so fingers crossed that is all it is and not a cold coming on.

I managed to finish another smaller Kanga but now I am not so enthused with the colors I selected. I did manage this time to write at least half the pattern down on paper, the back legs though I changed so many times I am not sure now which is the pattern I ended up using. At least they are only small so I can play around with a bit of scrap wool and work that out. Ah well off to work I go.

Brain drain

2008-02-10T07:38:00.000+11:00

I had intended to post a new blog every 2nd day but this just hasn't happened. I have been busy trying to create some new animals. Thought I would try a cat, first looked like a sausage dog, so that went back into the bag ( to be finished some time). I then decided exactly how I wanted my cat to look, decided would try a smaller version first, was going great ( watching tv at same time)... until I realised somewhere along the way I turned the item over and now have front legs on the back and back legs on the front. Wouldn't be a problem except this cat is laying down....so back to the scrap heap.
Decided to change tack and go back and create the pattern for my kanga ( actually write it down). The more I crochet the less I wrote and once again have nearly finished another animal and no pattern in writing.
Ah well guess the pattern writing will be put on hold until my headache goes and then maybe my brain will think more clearly.
Am hoping today is not raining and we can get outside an start putting up our shade houses and get some plants in before winter.
What strange weather February is usually the hotest month here in Melbourne (Australia) and I am sitting with the little heater on in the computer room.....its freezing.

More crochet?????

2008-02-04T06:13:00.000+11:00

Animals, animals, animals....... have so many crochet animals at present, but not sure what ones to do next. I have been thinking of creating more non jointed animals ( for younger children) and would love some suggestions of which animals you would like to see. Here are a couple of my latest Painpots. I also had my second sale ( my Mini Bear has gone). S0 far the only things that have sold are bears, but I dont just want to make bears. Any Suggestions ??????

Two more Crochet PaintPot Pals

2008-01-28T21:35:00.000+11:00

We have had a 3 day weekend here with Australia Day Public holiday. Off to work tomorrow. Spent the weekend fixing fence at daughters place (next time will remember to hire someone else). Well actually I supervised a lot and partner did most of work, it was hot and the soil was full of sandstone, tonight we both feel our age and some.

On a brighter note I did manage to complete another 2 Paintpot pals.

Not sure if anyone else likes them but I am enjoying creating them . Well off to bed with a nice early morning tomorrow ( only bad thing about public holidays- more work to do in less days).

MY Fat Bottomed Bag

2008-01-24T05:17:00.000+11:00

Finished my bag. Decided to keep it simple. lined with same color material and attatched a little flower. Not sure what my next project will be apart from trying to create more Painpot Pals.

I think I will probably make some different bags, a girl can never have enough bags.

Just got my invite to ravelry, haven't had time to check it all out yet.

wow- my first sale on Etsy

2008-01-22T16:43:00.000+11:00

Made my first sale on Etsy the other day, it was only$6.00 but I was excited. Also learnt something else check the postage before you quote it. I had gone to the Australia Post website and typed in all the info, go quote for tiny little parcel only to find when I went and posted that the quote was out by more than a $1.00. I guess that means I actually made less than $5.00 but I was still excited.

Finished another bear but he turned out a little bit ugly, kinda like a bear only a mother could love. Have tomorrow off work so hope to get my bag handles then and finish the fat bottomed bag.

More Paintpot pals in the making

2008-01-20T08:20:00.000+11:00

Wow its been nearly 3 weeks since I posted, have had a lot going on. 2 granchildrens birthdays and not to mention mine. It was a lovely day and my daughter managed to surprise me by inviting my uncle , I hadn't seen him for ages. It was a great day, even if my nephew tried to get his Auntie drunk (he didn't succeed).

On the crochet front I have been busy creating more paint pot pals and in some cases throwing out. Several of the new Pals just looked odd so undid and back to the drawing board.

I am finding the thread animals the hardest to do, I had no idea how bad my eyesight was until I had to purchase some magnifying glasses just to see the tiny stitches.

I have nearly finished a bag for myself. I tried the Fat Bottomed bag from the Happy Hooker book by Debbie Stoller. All I have to do now is purchase some handles and my bag will be finished. I will post a picture when the item is completed.

I've learnt a lot in the last 24 hours

2007-12-31T23:40:00.000+11:00

Wow what a difference a day makes.

I was discussing my Etsy shop with my daughter and complaining about not knowing what to do.

My daughter suggested I post on the Etsy forum. I hadn't been game to before hand. Anyway I posted a request for advice for my shop and hey within 5 minutes had heaps of advice.

I didn't even know what a light box was, but after 15 minutes I had managed to construct one .Let me know what you think of the new photo's. I have also decided to purchase a designed banner, hopefully this makes my shop more professional.

Now all I need to do is get the hooks out and get designing more Pals.

Nana Sue

survived christmas

2007-12-30T19:58:00.000+11:00

Well I survived christmas and the grand children had a great with all their presents, though it all seemed to get too much for the youngest. My partner flew of to NZ to see him mum, arrived midnight to discover they had lost his luggage. And they still haven't found it.

New Years eve tomorrow if I dont melt before then, they say it will get to 42 degree celsius ( about 107.6 degree Fahrenheit). I haven't done much craft the last few days, the arthritis has been playing up. I did manage to complete another rabbit and bear and am at present working on a lamb. I ordered the Stich'n bitch Crochet book and am looking forward to try out a few of the patterns for myself. I have added a picture of my latest rabbit and his little jointed friend I made a while back.

Christmas eve

2007-12-24T07:30:00.000+11:00

Time to wrap all the presents,well nearly all, gave my eldest daughter (Tanya) part of hers yesterday(Lawn mower was too big to wrap) It will save her lugging ours back and forwards with the risk of spilling petrol in her car.
I have finished a couple more PaintPot pals and am experimenting with creating smaller thread crochet PaintPot Pals. This is my lastest PaintPot Pal, Kaleidoscope Kanga (Kali for short).
The pav is made, the fudge flopped ( if anyone has a starch free recipe for fudge that works, please let me know). I only have to make a salad and finish the wrapping. My partner Noel will be off to NZ to visit his mum after Christmas lunch at my daughter (Kylie's) place.
Please let me know what you think of Kali.
A Merry Christmas to everyone and for those driving this time of year , please be careful and arrive safely.
Sue

Nearly Christmas

2007-12-23T01:11:00.000+11:00

Nearly Christmas and the time seems to fly. The older I get the faster it goes. I don't think I have missed anyone for presents this year. We will brave the shops this morning for any last minute needs. I am trying to start my etsy shop and between work and Christmas, the craft seems to have taken a back seat.

I am aiming to produce a series of brightly coloured animals and call them PaintPot Pals.

I would love to have some feedback on what people think of the name and any suggestions are most welcome.

My first effort is this cute little piggy, I am not sure if the crochet is going to be the challange or learning to use my camera. I have never been able to get the hang of photos.