Needle Organization

When I start a new hobby I tend to acquire supplies slowly since it usually takes a while to figure out what you need and how to use the tools when you do get them. The same went for knitting, especially being a beginner because projects took longer back when I was still a newbie.

However, all of a sudden I had needles everywhere! I found in the excitement of learning a new skill I had been very undisciplined, purchasing the same size needle more than once, starting half a dozen projects at the same time, some of which still sit unfinished in my stash. Suddenly it became clear that I needed something to organize them so I started looking for a needle case, but I couldn't find what I was looking for.

The craft stores had big ugly cases that looked like they were made from grandma's traveling bag and cost $20 or more. Etsy had cute cases but I wasn't paying $30 plus shipping for something to store my needles in. So I did what I so often seem to do, I decided I can make it myself!

I'm not much of a seamstress; I don't even own a sewing machine - yet; but I can do the basics. I bought two fat quarters, sewed them with the right sides facing, like making a pillow. Used some ribbon for trim and ties, made slots for the needles, and all it took was about an hour.

I love it, and have gotten many compliments on my one-of-a-kind needle case.

Now we'll see who's been paying attention... I've made a second case, and I'm going to give it away to someone who responds to this post!

My first give away, I'm so excited! Just leave a comment below before Christmas day and I'll randomly pick a winner and ship you this needle case.

Celebrate Color With Candy Corn!

I am so excited about these little guys, and I think they're totally adorable. Plus it's really easy to make a bunch of them and put them all over your house.

I'm also officially submitting them for the Celebrate Color contest over at Stitched in Color. If you don't know about this contest yet, you must check it out. The prizes are drool-worthy, and there are some talented people showing off their handwork.

Fall was definitely the inspiration for these guys when I was trying to come up with an easy pattern to submit for my certification. It just made sense to me to make something holiday themed and what better than candy corn?

It's an iconic fall candy, plus I've used them to decorate around the house before, filling jars and vases with the colorful candy and putting them around the house.

So cute! I love them, and I'll share the pattern soon!

Update: pattern shared here.

Get Your Vote On!

Rachel over at Stitched in Color is hosting a season long celebration of color. September's entries are in and ready to be voted on so hurry on over here and vote for your favorite project from each of the four categories; Fabric (home decor), Fabric (wearable), Yarn, and Needlepoint.

I've voted for the ones I'd like to win, and am planning to cast on something fabulous to submit for October's contest. She's giving away lovely stuff so be sure and get your own submissions completed and to her!

 

Click on her fabulous Celebrate Color icon to find out how to enter, and check back soon for October's rules and prizes. I can't wait to see what everyone comes up with!