Repurposing My Crochet Remnants!

I often weave with yarn scraps leftover from crochet projects, but this week I had a new idea! I was looking through a bag of crochet remnants (leftover pieces from projects that didn't work out), and I was inspired to repurpose them. I like weaving with crochet, and I usually crochet random pieces to weave with. This is the first time I try weaving with pieces that were intended for another use. These pieces are from a necklace I was designing. They got put aside because another idea for the necklace took over! I have plans to weave in these pieces with yarn scraps and also do some embroidery embellishment on the piece. It will be very interesting to see the outcome of this experiment, and hopefully, it will lead to more pieces like it! Stay tuned for a progress report!

International Crochet Month Designer Showcase 2019!

If you didn't already hear the news, March is International Crochet Month!

I am participating in the International Crochet Month Designer Showcase with Underground Crafter. Come join the fun! Every day in March 2019, a different crochet designer who is also a member of the Crochet Guild of America, will be highlighted. Each designer will share a free crochet pattern or a 25% discount on a premium pattern. We've partnered with some of our favorite companies to get some great prizes for you-- including yarn, crochet hooks, notions, pattern books, and more! Find out more information about participating designers, the schedule, and how to enter to win the prizes on Underground Crafter.

I have been a member of the CGOA for the past 10 years, and what a wonderful 10 years it has been! I first joined because I was interested in starting designing professionally for publications and I wanted to take advantage of the mentor program.

From the CGOA Blog:

"Crochet Guild of America offers a mentorship program, which matches new crochet professionals with established professionals to help enhance the crochet industry, while ensuring that professional ethics and standards are practiced and encouraged. It is these professional approaches that help to bring crochet from a hobby to a career".

I was paired with the amazing Margaret Hubert, who gave me advice on getting started submitting to magazines, and how the industry works. Within two years, I was able to obtain Professional status within the CGOA. It means a lot to be recognized in the industry for your work, and the mentor program has successfully launched many designer's careers!

In addition to the mentor program, I love the CGOA for the community itself. Most of the time, designers are working solo from home. The yearly Chain Link conference is a great chance to get together with others who are working in the industry and who understand exactly what you do and why you love to do what you do!

To see all of the benefits of being a CGOA member and to join the organization, visit their website.

To celebrate international crochet month, I am offering a 25% discount on my new Stone Necklace Trio pattern collection. 

Stone Necklace Trio

This collection of necklaces was inspired by jewelry made with natural stones. I love the idea of crocheting around real stones, but it would be difficult for people to make the necklace exactly as I designed if they don't find stones similar to mine. The resulting pendant will be very different. By writing a pattern for the stones, everyone will be able to make the necklace as I intended it to be!

I wanted the stones to be 3-D, and I didn't want the supply list for the necklaces to be too extensive, so instead of stuffing them with fiberfill, they are stuffed with crocheted pieces. These pieces are the perfect shape, and they add just enough weight to the pendants so they hang nicely. Each one has its own personality, and would make a unique gift. Fun to make and fun to receive! You can choose to embellish the stones with embroidery or let the crochet and beauty of the yarn speak for itself.

The regular price of this pattern collection is $4.95, and starting today through March 21st, it will be available for $3.71. Just enter the coupon code: ICM25 when you check out.

I look forward to seeing your stone jewelry creations on Ravelry! Best wishes for a March filled with the joy of crocheting!