Colorful Autumn Afghan

As the weather begins to cool, I look ahead to fall by showing you this latest afghan knitted in autumnal colors. I started this afghan about a year ago. It has taken me quite a while, but I love the results.

One of the most challenging phases of this project was sewing the panels together. For some reason, I am never quite able to get the seams as flat as I hope to.

This is a very warm afghan, and is perfect to snuggle under. As a matter of fact, lately my favorite place to start another pair of socks is in bed at night while watching TV.

This free pattern is available by creating an account through Lion Brand Yarn Co. It was the latest featured item in their last newsletter. "Amazing" yarn (one of my favorites) was used with a selected few colors of "Jiffy" yarn.

I am lovin' it!!

CREDITS: SECOND PHOTO COURTESY OF LION BRAND YARN CO.

Fun Sparkle Scarf

I can't wait to tackle that gift-giving list again this year. I love sharing through my love of knitting and here is my very first completed project. I ended up giving this to my lovable daughter-in-law for her birthday, and started a second in black for a lucky recipient.

If you seek something extra-special for those in your life, this quick and easy scarf fits the bill. I found the pattern on the yarn label called "Dewdrops," the color is 13 DIAMOND, by Loops & Threads. It is much easier than it looks!

Have a fabulous weekend!

One World One Heart Giveaway

This will be my third year

participating in the

"One World One Heart" event.

I love flying all over the world

and checking out

some of the best blogs ever!

These two weeks will allow

you to meet people

that you probably would

never have discovered,

if this event was unavailable.

It is such a fun way to find some

fantastic inspiration. I will miss that

this will be the final year. Sigh!

I really should introduce myself

more than I have in the past.

Perhaps this will entice you

to share my life and art,

and we may even become friends.

Ever since I was even a child,

I have always loved doing artistic things.

I spent a number of years

making fabric quilts

and began knitting

when I was ten years old.

Then came more than a decade

of traditional scrapbooking

my heritage family photos.

I even spent a number of years

designing layouts

for a local scrapbook store.

My biggest leap in art

was discovering

art journals, ATC's and Altered Art.

That is when I really got hooked.

I love any kind of paper,

old photos, especially sepia toned ones.

I adore all Somerset Studio publications.

For as long as I can remember,

I have always liked old things.

I enjoy taking photos, assembling vintage

style collage art,

and sometimes I even cross

over to Country Western and Gothic themes.

There's nothing like reading a good mystery novel

and stories of the "Old South."

When I first purchased my

Canon SLR digital camera,

there was another huge turning point

in my artistic career.

I became obsessed with

learning more about the beauty

of digital art, and promised myself

I would become proficient at this.

Since that opened so much

visual excitement for me,

I began posting some of my

digital creations and then

was asked to become

a design team member

for Moonlight Journey.

It's been uphill ever since.

Their images are just stunning

and motivating to me!

Recently, I have been involved in a

monthly artistic recipe card swap.

My family recipes are

slowly evolving into

treasured little pieces of art,

which are dropped lovingly

into protective sleeves especially

for a recipe card binder.

This process has

triggered my desire

to become a better cook,

get all my recipes organized and copied

for future generations.

Plus, I can appreciate

the importance of eating more

natural and organic foods.

Over the years,

I have become more

in tune with the true beauty

of nature, friends, family,

art in a whole new way, and

less about what I don't possess.

Afterall,

it is much more important to

truly enjoy the present.

And ta da , for my prizes!

Prize #1

Mittens, Woodland Colors

25% Wool & Acrylic, Washable

Prize #2

Garter-Stitch Wrist Warmers, Dusty Rose

100% Acrylic

Please leave a comment

and a way to contact you.

On February 17, I will email you

for your address

and then mail you

your gift within 3 days.

I sincerely thank you for

stopping by and

sharing your talents!

Come back and visit me anytime.

Nancy

A huge thank you so goes to Lisa Swifka, for all your devotion to this galant extravaganza. Without you, this would not be possible. To link back to the participants in OWOH, click HERE.

Just Carry On

A couple of weeks ago, I dreamed about yarn. Knitting dreams are kind of common for me--for you see these colorful socks have a serious mistake in them. I discovered the error after I had already completed a whole sock and half of the next one. Sheesh! Now what?

Do I start ripping it out after more than 30 hours of work? Or do I make another one with the an identical knitting issue. Well, I decided to just keep the mistake again so they match.

I guess, no one would even know but me, but sometimes my desire for absolute perfection gets the best of my unspoken mind. The socks fit just fine, and they do have a kind of clever artistic flair. I will find the beauty in them no matter what. That's what knitters do.

Flapper Knit Hats

The 1920's have always fascinated me. (For that matter, so have the 30's and 40's.) So much happened. I am especially fond of the music that was born at this time. During the 20's came the birth of the Flapper. The Flapper was everything new and modern. I have put a little modern twist to these children "Flapper" hats with bright and bold buttons. I feel that vintage buttons would really be perfect, but as these are for my family's Christmas gifts, my nieces may just prefer the buttons of today.

So many people believe that the women's movement started back in the 60's. I actually believe it started back in the 20's. The Flapper gave up the restricting clothing way before the liberated women burned their bras!

These adorable hats are less than a day project. Click on over to Justine from New Zealand at Just Jussi Knitwear Design. The pattern called "Poppy" is free! Thank you for sharing, Justine.

Tube Socks with Style

These light-weight tube socks have no heel, no bend, no thinking about those complicated short gusset rows--just mindless knitting! I came across this fabulous yarn in Petoskey, Michigan at their local craft store. I was visiting my sister and mom in the upper peninsula again and rejuvinated my knitting passion while making the long trek home.

This yarn is "Soles & More" by Sensations, and the colors somehow transform into this intricate pattern with absolutely no stressful brain work. I love them!

If only I had picked up more yarn. . .

CREDITS: "The Big Book of Socks," by Kathleen Taylor, pg. 21.

Easy Knitted Hooded Sweater

Size for 3 Year Old - $45.00 (shipping extra)

Knitting has been a constant element in my life since I have been about 10 years old. While it has at times taken a back seat to other interests, I can hardly ever recall not having some kind of project on my needles.

A couple of Christmases ago, my family gave me a set of Knit Picks circular needles. My life as a knitter has never been quite the same. I became more eager to try some difficult patterns. Last year, I even started delving deeper into the possibilities of knitting socks!

It seems once I find a pattern I like, I become somewhat obsessed and make multiple versions of the same pattern. Here are a few more of the sweaters I have made during the Spring, and most recently this black one. The pattern was simple, but the results have inspired me. The red and and blue patterned sweaters are for sale. The sweet black one with the pinwheel buttons is already taken.

Size for 3 Year old - $45.00 (shipping extra)

~ Sold ~

I hope that I can inspire you with these easy knitted sweaters. The free pattern is available through Lion Brand Yarn. Start exploring this relaxing hobby!

Take care, Nancy

Where I Create....

"Any day is the perfect time

to begin getting

organized,"

I say.

It's Party Time!!

Yes....the party day is finally here. I reorganized a majority of my creative space like an absolute man woman yesterday. I am not the neatest "picker-upper," so I had to devote a little time to share with less embarrassment.

I really appreciate Karen linking all of us to her blog. This is going to be even more awesome than last year. I can't wait to start visiting you all.

I got my studio about the time my daughter, Amy, moved out of the house to get married. I just never had the time or the energy to plan and organize my vast stockpile of goodies and then organize a space to actually say, "I have a room of my own!"

I had a desk that was a complete disaster. We bought it at a garage sale when I first got married, so it required about a week of stripping and staining and then varnishing. I am really quite proud of that accomplishment. Then I switched the rug shown here from my family room. This carpet is so much fun! I ordered posters from Shutterfly and framed them in poster frames. I can't seem to part with my magazines. I have Somerset issues from 1998!!

My husband, Chuck, tackled painting one wall my favorite shade of green. Then he built shelves to store my books, finished projects, and other doo dads. I sewed my own curtains to cover the tiny basement windows. There is so much I would like to do someday.

Because I have a lot of interest in sewing, knitting, and paper arts, here are a few photos of my work areas. Due to taking the KC Willis Collage Camp, my sewing machine was pulled out of the closet and I organized a sewing table near the back of my room.

Actually, I would love to own a cupboard to store my yarn. And I need another cabinet to store my rubber stamps with a little style. One of my future goals is to own a huge "inspiration board."

So today, here is my space. I wish I could really have you stop over and play with me. I love seeing all the talent and inspiration from all of you. I just love visiting everyone.

It may take me a while to visit all of you. I want to really fine tune my room so I can be truly proud of it.

Thanks, Karen for this great idea of opening every one's home and viewing our creative spaces. I am thrilled to be included.

Fun Socks and Child's Sun Top

Most of my close friends and family are never surprised to see me knitting. I always bring my bag of knitting wherever I go just in case there are some spare moments when I can pull out my latest project and knit a few rows.

I have always wanted to learn how to knit socks. I know, I know, you can buy socks for two dollars a pair, but not like these socks. Knitting socks makes me happy. Socks are portable, and you can tuck the yarn, needles, and pattern into your purse and take them anywhere. What inspired me was finding the ultimate book called "The Big Book of Socks," by Kathleen Taylor.

Hand-knitted socks are long lasting and unique. This was my second pair of hand-knitted socks that I knitted last week during my unfortunate period of injuring my right knee. I love knitting socks because there are so many patterns, and with the latest self-striping yarn, you can't wait to see what designs will appear.

These orange, brown, and black socks will be given to my sweet grandson. I say that they are hugs for the feet. And, who needs more reason than that?

And, what else have I whipped up last week? This hot-pink 100% organic cotton yarn Child's Sun Top pattern was generously given to the public through Lion Brand Yarn. com. You just have to create an account, and every week or so you will receive an email with the latest free patterns. It is Pattern #: 70302AD. It is extremely easy and looks adorable! I will be giving it to my three-year old grand daughter. The very cool yellow butterfly tag, has laundry details on the the reverse side. These outstanding butterfly images are sold through Moonlight Journey in a 32 image digital pack.

So you knitters out there, start your needles!

Adorable Baby Booties

I honestly think most moms like to buy unique and interesting booties for their babies. Nothing looks more adorable than a beautiful pair of booties on a baby.

After a few hours of experimenting with my needles, I came up with these sweet little gems. Many babies don't have grandmothers, aunts, and other family members (or lucky enough) to make something a little different like a sweet pair of these Mary Jane booties.

If you would like me to knit you a pair, please email me, or leave a comment on this post. I can make just about any color you would choose for $12.00, in sizes 0-3 months to 12 mos. They are hand-knitted, 100% acrylic, machine washable and dry able.

Can you imagine your recipient opening a box with these absolutely precious booties as a gift at a baby shower? They may not be big-girl patent leather, but your sweet little girl will get a lot of attention with these cute socks on her tootsies.

Play it Forward Thank You and Giveaway

Last month, I offered three giveaways for the One World One Heart event. Not only did I give away, I also will be receiving two gorgeous gifts. There were an astounding number of artful blogs to visit this year, and it is pure luck to have won two of them.

A big bear hug goes out to my dear friend, Debra Abel, from "It's All Good." She did the random generator, and I was the No. 2 comment. What are the chances of this happening? She insists that it was legitimate, and I'm sticking to it! I have always admired the image of her sweetheart of a mermaid piece. I love the sea, the ocean, and what lies beneath. Please visit Deb's blog to get a glimpse of some of her beautiful pieces of art, plus a mixture of her thoughts on what is happening in her world. I am so excited to own this brilliant print and all it's fine detail!

And it won't be long before, I will be receiving another package from across the Atlantic Ocean. Linda Woolford, of "The Briar Rose Gate," painted a magical moonlit crow image in winter, "Nobel Gwynan, Raven of the Dark Woods Clan." She says it's on it's way. I think it is just stunning! Her site is wonderful with photo images of her town, family, and neighboring villages. You will even meet her lab, Poppy and his new pal Prince. I love the music she chose for her blog.

As a thank you to the above blogs, please leave a comment for them by clicking on these links. Then come back and leave a comment on this post with your email address. On Friday, March 5th, I will choose 5 lucky winners to receive one of my hand knit coffee cup cozies that are shown below.

Thank you so much Deb and Linda!

Nancy

Winning is the Greatest!!

Because of the overwhelming response to my One Word One Heart Giveaway, I decided during the comment process to increase my prizes from two to three. I used the random generator and these numbers magically appeared.

Here are the winners:

Knitted Hat and Scarf Set

to

Nancy Lee Malay from Fairbault, Minnesota

"Victorian Whimsies"

Comment 303 and Booth #419

Coffee or Tea Cup Cozy

to

Twyla and Lindsey from Missouri

"Two Crazy Crafters"

Comment 143

Since there are two of you, I will be mailing two cozies!!

and

Marie Antoinette DVD

to

Kimberly Lynn from Florida

"Sea Gypsy Studio"

Comment 130 and Booth #555

I am truly honored that so many of you have stopped by my blog and left such lovely comments. I wish I could have sent a gift to all of you!!! I tried to visit as many blogs as I could, but it was really quite overwhelming. I am very happy that I joined in this annual giveaway, and will be looking forward to next year's magical caravan.

I have added so many new and amazing artists to my favorite links and added myself to countless blogs. Thank you for sharing all your brilliant artwork with the world. Thank you, Lisa, for hosting this fabulous event!

Woodland Gnome Sweater

Now, after more than 60 years of observation, I feel that the time has come to put my experience and findings on paper. Having received permission of course, from the authorized council of gnomes, it is my belief that this post may fill somewhat of a deplorable gap.

In earlier times, the gnome was an accepted member in society. But that was a time when waters were clear and when the heavens were only filled with birds and stars. Now that we are so concerned with saving what is left of nature's treasures, there is some hope that gnomes will begin to move about more freely.

A "Woodland," or "Forest Gnome, " is probably the most common and one of my favorites. Folklorists insist that the cap they wear is not its principal function. Rather it is an indispensable head covering that has the power to render a gnome invisible.

So today, I am willing to show you this sweater for a two-year old little gnome. It will be a gift to my niece's little boy, a miniature person who speaks our language, yet mixed with strange words. I have spoken to this little man. I believe he is a descendant of a race called Kuwalden, known for their fondness to drink milk.

My belief that he may be a "Woodland," or "Forest Gnome" is probably difficult to really verify. He is still a little shy, and is very good-natured. However, he does have a tendency to tell melancholy tales.

Even though my nephew resembles a little gnome, I doubt it can be entirely true. Gnomes visit their birthday tree yearly on Midsummer's Eve and add a carving to the bark. He celebrates his birthday every January, where in Gnomeland, birthdays are not celebrated. Little Giovanni dwells on the fact that he is another year older. Upon request from faraway friends and family, he will extend these birthday weeks for an unlimited period.

Happy Birthday, little one!

Exerpts taken from the book GNOMES, by Axel Munthe, Copyright 1976, A Peacock Press, Bantam Book

One-World One Heart Giveaway

Make a Smilebox greeting

"The Fourth Annual "One World~One Heart Giveaway" is here! This event starts today, Monday, January 25 and ends February 15, 2010. I'd like to share just a few photos of my family and art. The precious baby is granddaughter Lauren as a newborn, and my grandson, Ethan, who holds a special place in my heart. The two sweet girls at the end of my slideshow are my nieces, Valentina and Claudia. Family is my most precious treasure.

Hopefully, you will meet new friends in the next few weeks...AND you might even win an amazing gift! There are countless numbers of generous people sharing their artistic blogs, and hundreds of wonderful items to be given away!

I participated last year, and it is just the best inspirational experience. I truly enjoyed riding the magic carpet all over the globe. You will, without a doubt, come across some of the best artistic blogs that you might never have happened to come across otherwise.

To learn more, and to see a list of the participating blogs with their links, just click here. You may even want to do a giveaway on your own blog too! Whether you want to do a giveaway or just enter to win as you pop from blog to blog entering drawings, the process of jumping on the caravan is rather addictive and just plain fun!

To enter my drawing you must be an active blogger. All you need to do is leave a comment on this post. Please be sure to include your email address. The drawing will be February 15th at Noon and winners are selected through the random generator. I will contact you via e-mail and post the winner on my blog. If you want to know even more about this event, click here.

Bulky Hand-Knit Hat and Scarf

I used Wool-Ease Thick & Quick by Lion Brand Yarns in the color "Linen."

Both items are machine washable and dryable.

These giveaway items have free patterns available through

Lion Brand Yarn company's online web-site,

http://www.lionbrand.com/

Coffee or Tea Cup Cozy

(Second Giveaway)

It is completely washable made with Plymouth Yarn, the "Encore Colors." It is 75% acrylic and 25% wool. Now, all you have to do is add a comment with your email address to this post.

Due to the overwhelming response I have received during this event, I have decided to have a third giveaway!!

"MARIE ANTOINETTE" DVD

starring Kirsten Dunst

Thanks for all your heartfelt comments!

I sincerely appreciate them.