handmade by stefanie

Why make something twice? It's generally not in my nature to knit or crochet a pattern over and over again, but lately the familiarity of an easy-to-make design is something I've been craving. I was so delighted with my Fresh Stitches CAL project Jack the Tiny Pumpkin , that I decided to make him a friend: I had a similar experience with Cookie A's Lateral Socks ; there is something about this pattern that I found immensely appealing...plus, I could tote it along wherever I went, sans instructions. For my second pair, I subbed in a speedy short-row garter stitch heel and garter toe. These socks were the perfect project for long (or short) trips on the CTA. Of course, finishing two projects this week means I get to start some new ones...right?

Earlier this year, I signed up for Vicki Howell's Crochet Lab class on Craftsy.com , determined to re-learn how to crochet. This was the first class I took on the Craftsy platform, and as you can tell by how often I reference and support Craftsy on this blog, I was impressed! I would (and have) definitely recommend this class for anyone who wants to learn how to crochet. Vicki is enthusiastic and good at explaining things in a way that is easy to grasp, encouraging folks to find the way that's easiest for them to do rather than insisting that what she is demonstrating is the only correct way to crochet. This is something I find very refreshing about Craftsy courses in general - the instructors are very good about either demonstrating a few ways to accomplish the same thing, or, at the very least, encouraging their students to experiment and do what comes naturally to them. The instructions were clear and easy to follow; for each technique, there is a close-up of Vic...

Autumn is in full effect here in Chicago.  The leaves have turned & the air is crisp....and there are trick-or-treaters on our doorstep tonight!  This is the first place we've ever lived where we got trick-or-treaters.  It's so fun!  I went a little nuts buying treats at Target - my favorite ones are the eyeball bubbles, but so far the kiddies seem to favor actual candy (big surprise) and stretchy skeletons. Robin is keeping a lookout for ghosts and goblins.... ...And Mr. Nubbins has donned his pirate garb. Today was extra-awesome because I found out that I won an awesome Halloween-y tote bag from Busy Beaver Buttons today - woo hoo!  Before I sign off, I have one more Malabrigo Stockpile FO to share  - currently blocking in the yarn room is the Metheglin Cowl in Worsted & Rios - turned out pretty well considering the bulk of the knitting was done whilst consuming many beers.  Once it's dry, I'll take some action shots to post! ...