tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187498771357666872024-03-19T04:18:52.813-07:00The Caped Crafter!zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.comBlogger87125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-60741975350489587872013-02-14T13:09:00.001-08:002013-02-14T22:15:02.540-08:00Simple Sewing- knitting pattern holderI've been wanting to make one of these for a while.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJu_z6ClMGAysJa0XOT_vMrDS31XaKiFCeXLabnzi_WfxLd1iR5RYI1CWGDaWgtfdPPyje6WTUzJEEA2t-NOZnKc4dmIJgEFYmMRQH3vBLxREQ1E72BOeqeLBitlPHWMTmV5mbW7gElLbI/s1600/IMG_0493.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJu_z6ClMGAysJa0XOT_vMrDS31XaKiFCeXLabnzi_WfxLd1iR5RYI1CWGDaWgtfdPPyje6WTUzJEEA2t-NOZnKc4dmIJgEFYmMRQH3vBLxREQ1E72BOeqeLBitlPHWMTmV5mbW7gElLbI/s400/IMG_0493.jpg" width="300" /></a> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiltY7TosUismr2C60NfzDj94nA7pjBKR4H_zPCVvCht_UVtCwcBp5xAkGzZYuqnWE8GVRD5Ri4nNMNNtBfJAG0QXqcUYWTDeMJs7oyOSAoRseQsmi5KFQY8WKrIb5gzok51n-FTU4EVOjM/s1600/IMG_0495.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiltY7TosUismr2C60NfzDj94nA7pjBKR4H_zPCVvCht_UVtCwcBp5xAkGzZYuqnWE8GVRD5Ri4nNMNNtBfJAG0QXqcUYWTDeMJs7oyOSAoRseQsmi5KFQY8WKrIb5gzok51n-FTU4EVOjM/s400/IMG_0495.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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It's been a hard two months. If I haven't been sick then the husband has been sick or the kiddos have been sick. Therefore, I've done nothing creative of note. When this happens, when I'm months between projects, I start to feel a little depressed. Looking at my craft, sewing, knitting, crocheting, etc. supplies fills me with sadness and something like trepidation. It's like smelling and seeing a seven course meal when you're starving but you have no teeth.<br />
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Well, my daughter is under the weather this afternoon (this time with a stomach bug) so I decided- while she slept, instead of cleaning or folding laundry or checking my work email- that I would sew.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMfwcDLdtJMekiFTsEqYUvYDUthveUCFysHcsyMa73KLsplwBOr9uIcEyoLqd4sth-HFjVnSBFnJrwF3KH_89Tlcob-HG4VGrPWB-Xq613IkoI0m7YwtkGOgjkdT9j32-6aUWD7xMhT7dI/s1600/IMG_0496.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMfwcDLdtJMekiFTsEqYUvYDUthveUCFysHcsyMa73KLsplwBOr9uIcEyoLqd4sth-HFjVnSBFnJrwF3KH_89Tlcob-HG4VGrPWB-Xq613IkoI0m7YwtkGOgjkdT9j32-6aUWD7xMhT7dI/s1600/IMG_0496.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The cute fabric in the center is from a friend I met while at Squam last June. The plastic is from a comforter bag I saved (just for this purpose). <br />
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<u>I used</u>: thick plastic, fleece fusible interfacing, two large sew on snaps, white double fold bias for the top, yellow double fold bias for the sides, needle, thread. <br />
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<u>The dimensions to cut were</u>:<br />
Cover, inside, interfacing: 14.75 x 10.5<br />
Plastic: 13.75 x 10.5<br />
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I'm very happy with the finished product. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimpPJpOYt00XmsBcbgSHaj26_8V6PMjlbc952pT1hbotLuAJFWXeAKq_ZT_VipbvWRke9bq3nM3TygmZ2Za07c19Sae-CssfF1hc3a4J-LUWGHHLtg8rtUVckGNryHQsStAbYqxFtzyFvd/s1600/IMG_0494.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimpPJpOYt00XmsBcbgSHaj26_8V6PMjlbc952pT1hbotLuAJFWXeAKq_ZT_VipbvWRke9bq3nM3TygmZ2Za07c19Sae-CssfF1hc3a4J-LUWGHHLtg8rtUVckGNryHQsStAbYqxFtzyFvd/s400/IMG_0494.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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I also learned a good lesson: when frustrated due to lack of creative time/lack of creative productivity, start small; make something useful, simple, and pretty. Now my ever growing list of creative to-do items feels less daunting, no longer a chore, and something on which I am looking forward to spending time and energy.<br />
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Happy Valentines Day!!<!--3-->zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-82510008213063992992013-01-21T00:37:00.001-08:002013-01-21T01:55:15.977-08:00I love Ryan Gosling... and he likes to knit<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.esquire.com/blogs/culture/ryan-gosling-knit-14981882?spr_id=1456_6614121" target="_blank">Read this link</a></span></div>
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Look at this</div>
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<a href="http://abcnews.go.com/images/Entertainment/gty_ryan_gosling_dm_121031_wblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://abcnews.go.com/images/Entertainment/gty_ryan_gosling_dm_121031_wblog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And be happy. </div>
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<br />zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-67248789509358343492012-12-11T18:34:00.002-08:002012-12-11T18:34:51.755-08:00Stamp Carving Roundup: Part 2 Designing and Transferring Image<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiirZka1Ipm-4rZDjjjyP3UjN8qPf33uu7AhC8HzdA-oNnE1hEQT5vL4ZqP0NqKEUiGFSQymNp47m91b8FCff2rU1WY_EuaH_7qOestFabTFx7b75kFbcQ8t4kZxwjLMFVB8vc4HWcg-jX/s1600/IMG_1674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiirZka1Ipm-4rZDjjjyP3UjN8qPf33uu7AhC8HzdA-oNnE1hEQT5vL4ZqP0NqKEUiGFSQymNp47m91b8FCff2rU1WY_EuaH_7qOestFabTFx7b75kFbcQ8t4kZxwjLMFVB8vc4HWcg-jX/s400/IMG_1674.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Reminder:</i> If you are looking for a comprehensive resource/ post on this topic
which gives you complete information, alternatives, and comparisons then
go here: <br />
<a href="http://www.nettally.com/palmk/Rubber_Stamp_Carving_Tips.html">http://www.nettally.com/palmk/Rubber_Stamp_Carving_Tips.html</a><br />
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If you are looking for a "<i>this is what I do/what a reccommend for beginners</i>" then this post is for you.<br />
<a href="http://capedcrafter.blogspot.com/2012/09/stamp-carving-roundup-part-1-assembling.html" target="_blank">Part 1 covered assembling your materials</a><br />
<b>Part 2 will cover designing your image and transferring it to your carving material (this is part 2)</b><br />
Part 3 will cover carving your design<br />
Part 4 will cover stamping your image<br />
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<u><b> Designing your image: </b></u><br />
<i>Things to keep in mind</i><u><b><br /></b></u><br />
1. Start small and simple- if you get overly ambitious (small lines, super large, very detailed) for your first stamp then you will get angry like Hulk.<br />
2. Remember- you will be carving the white/pink space, not the dark/pencil space. Therefore, the more dark the less you have to carve.<br />
3. You can edit out items when you trace (use tracing paper).<br />
4. I recommend staying away from words until you get used to carving drawings <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-uzwMz7tIqOzF5zDl7fozHdd98CwkiOy8fseMAjpN_xjUwWCBFo3TqZjIvcF1mK6gIPLiOPvTQtNxKoI4kuh_PyBw1egKTNsx32LkHDik8EMYZhefjBUWtHLoX3Vt1zdNJhm057hyphenhyphenDBUR/s1600/IMG_1631.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-uzwMz7tIqOzF5zDl7fozHdd98CwkiOy8fseMAjpN_xjUwWCBFo3TqZjIvcF1mK6gIPLiOPvTQtNxKoI4kuh_PyBw1egKTNsx32LkHDik8EMYZhefjBUWtHLoX3Vt1zdNJhm057hyphenhyphenDBUR/s320/IMG_1631.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Steps</i><br />
Step 1: Draw a picture<br />
Step 2: ... there is no step 2<br />
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<u><b>Transferring your image:</b></u><br />
<i>Steps</i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNhMX1EjUAeLC6YaeldqmRVKm3OloyqVyhw73dnKcN2q_e1bf43p8uQ0BUz5udGlCzOmYnBBa9bUYZtsIFwHSg_hVjUumfdmmJq0FOesLWFDLVzXhoLPbWYIUn2BqJo2YIvkUkux33wJak/s1600/IMG_1632.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNhMX1EjUAeLC6YaeldqmRVKm3OloyqVyhw73dnKcN2q_e1bf43p8uQ0BUz5udGlCzOmYnBBa9bUYZtsIFwHSg_hVjUumfdmmJq0FOesLWFDLVzXhoLPbWYIUn2BqJo2YIvkUkux33wJak/s320/IMG_1632.JPG" width="320" /></a> </i></div>
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Step 1: Lay a sheet of tracing paper over your image</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz0qXAvR5DuvJU6AUcl8RFjBgY6JxZO75ZftpV1iE7RaWD5LOTkTnz1AYneCV2Gmu90dARd0_2acC8E1oxF6iwy_2pKO8MUseZ69a-JXkyS1whZNw-N1qWCEgVWeznh0TG7eZiCFv0cwq5/s1600/IMG_1636.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz0qXAvR5DuvJU6AUcl8RFjBgY6JxZO75ZftpV1iE7RaWD5LOTkTnz1AYneCV2Gmu90dARd0_2acC8E1oxF6iwy_2pKO8MUseZ69a-JXkyS1whZNw-N1qWCEgVWeznh0TG7eZiCFv0cwq5/s320/IMG_1636.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt9x6pl1Q_qzeEOKaw1EVMVer570JJo19kKs_4r6GfSEpw7NGShU0syMt6-I_ywni7kKJF8iE8kdFXCbNSYgglnrNmLD5NlDCZcr8GtTOdhST7EAR7WDL9TWDNnVVGtJkkZZcm1kStDjE6/s1600/IMG_1572.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt9x6pl1Q_qzeEOKaw1EVMVer570JJo19kKs_4r6GfSEpw7NGShU0syMt6-I_ywni7kKJF8iE8kdFXCbNSYgglnrNmLD5NlDCZcr8GtTOdhST7EAR7WDL9TWDNnVVGtJkkZZcm1kStDjE6/s320/IMG_1572.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div>
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Step 2: Trace ONLY the parts of the image you want to keep; note that in the picture above I kept only the owl and not the words. This is where the gritty pencil really comes in handy</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjda2wZHEdX-vAf9i48OPNEQ09498LsYCYNRutc7b1uHiveWgs1Xw5poHSc3dFoe5w9DhwNXRNVvnUxyoBbn2wUk5bAwR6RNPa5gYLLXxjujIQR9byDhlV2rsgpTtXv0hKTh0eQHBUY8amv/s1600/IMG_1649.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjda2wZHEdX-vAf9i48OPNEQ09498LsYCYNRutc7b1uHiveWgs1Xw5poHSc3dFoe5w9DhwNXRNVvnUxyoBbn2wUk5bAwR6RNPa5gYLLXxjujIQR9byDhlV2rsgpTtXv0hKTh0eQHBUY8amv/s320/IMG_1649.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 3: Cut a piece of carving material to the approximatae size of your image</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIWQrwsHg-8Uo423CefxGFSVQqMjHPDkYB_MVM6TEGLQlMOLZmW990KzDxR1Z6XBeX1fLZ4qj4iHnWSYYHqe4R3jEGdtfbqb0hTbgtUb7cIKKM00GdU25LXCplodPYlBku3w6sSLAyLecz/s1600/IMG_1652.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIWQrwsHg-8Uo423CefxGFSVQqMjHPDkYB_MVM6TEGLQlMOLZmW990KzDxR1Z6XBeX1fLZ4qj4iHnWSYYHqe4R3jEGdtfbqb0hTbgtUb7cIKKM00GdU25LXCplodPYlBku3w6sSLAyLecz/s320/IMG_1652.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF2c7KeHkRr3zYMihGTKu-iP6K2rvEMSTkYJ4ObGzT43bDWiMW5adlH42sVvxk5W40Rm0rmnpglE5-vkZe5CbvI5F0TVll-maL-EbTed7At2QGxkbWXbzT50wROqXy0110suu1sQQi-zuf/s1600/IMG_1656.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF2c7KeHkRr3zYMihGTKu-iP6K2rvEMSTkYJ4ObGzT43bDWiMW5adlH42sVvxk5W40Rm0rmnpglE5-vkZe5CbvI5F0TVll-maL-EbTed7At2QGxkbWXbzT50wROqXy0110suu1sQQi-zuf/s320/IMG_1656.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 4: Put your tracing paper image side down (gritty pencil side down) to the carving material</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAJdP0x9UjPoJoxrNbQ7EzJctmkDsdSUaIfChGdlDBtXBosteGtvnQQXDYQ6Pnd-o3XB8I6Xi9nCsimJr6bop7QI1CrAr-3PevmFyvsJ3qjE3NwordXLNxQRQBAEKHZEbGGE6teNXmYlk_/s1600/IMG_1662.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAJdP0x9UjPoJoxrNbQ7EzJctmkDsdSUaIfChGdlDBtXBosteGtvnQQXDYQ6Pnd-o3XB8I6Xi9nCsimJr6bop7QI1CrAr-3PevmFyvsJ3qjE3NwordXLNxQRQBAEKHZEbGGE6teNXmYlk_/s320/IMG_1662.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Step 5: Rub the tracing paper with your finger or other object (I use the bottom side of a carving tool)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiirZka1Ipm-4rZDjjjyP3UjN8qPf33uu7AhC8HzdA-oNnE1hEQT5vL4ZqP0NqKEUiGFSQymNp47m91b8FCff2rU1WY_EuaH_7qOestFabTFx7b75kFbcQ8t4kZxwjLMFVB8vc4HWcg-jX/s1600/IMG_1674.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiirZka1Ipm-4rZDjjjyP3UjN8qPf33uu7AhC8HzdA-oNnE1hEQT5vL4ZqP0NqKEUiGFSQymNp47m91b8FCff2rU1WY_EuaH_7qOestFabTFx7b75kFbcQ8t4kZxwjLMFVB8vc4HWcg-jX/s320/IMG_1674.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Step 6: Carefully remove the tracing paper</div>
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The image left on the stamp with be the mirror image of your original image (which is good!)</div>
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Next up (in hopefully January): </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Part 3: Carving your design</i></div>
zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-33887679348698468122012-12-10T11:26:00.003-08:002012-12-10T12:01:04.397-08:00Man-Cowl Mystery SolvedSo, I love Ravelry.<br />
<br />
I was PMed from a user today (anna-fo-fanna) about my search for the mysterious man-cowl (original post <a href="http://capedcrafter.blogspot.com/2012/11/gift-for-him-knitting-pattern-surly-man.html" target="_blank">here</a>). It turns out that I didn't dream up the cowl, a pattern already exists! I knew I wasn't nutters. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/man-or-anyone-cowl" target="_blank">Here is the pattern</a> I must have found but then didn't queue and therefore went through the process of recreating from (at the time uncertain if real or imagined) memory. The main picture doesn't exactly look the same but when you open the project pictures it looks exactly the same- which is why I suppose I had such difficulty finding it again. I think the only difference is that mine has a 1x1 rib and the original pattern doesn't (so... really... exactly the same). <br />
<br />
I deactivated my reconstructed pattern on ravelry and contacted everyone who'd downloaded it or started the project and referred them to <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/michael-wynne">Michael Wynne</a>'s pattern. I also encouraged everyone to link their projects to Michael Wynne's pattern.<br />
<br />
If you still want my reconstructed version of the pattern please feel free to contact me on ravelry and I'll send you the PDF.<br />
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Now... back to work!zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-11631074162812554412012-12-07T21:11:00.000-08:002012-12-08T05:39:29.905-08:00True Story: San Diego Stitch Pattern <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I recently returned from a trip to San Diego for work. When I was there I felt inspired (I know, I know, I'm a doofus) by the boats and sand and Mexican cultural and architectural influence so I developed a new stitch pattern (at least I've not seen it before but, knowing knitting, it's probably already been developed by Elizabeth Zimmerman's cousin's roommate's ravelry BFF's third bridesmaid).</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8DPU_b_IPKHD63BdTGYQbX5Vu8KKUYWEn-q9kkS_PjufUEYyTJHyhpEq05WdLHoC9zjDibznNPkAuC62tgAOR9NOojW1mnShUzGpd-O8CW5mPcKeHIFL-U7Ubu009_ZNptnSXFd_BDcEI/s320/photo.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What it looks like in the nude... color yarn.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The picture above is unblocked. I have hopes that it will even out and open up with blocking. I'd also like to try it with a lighter weight yarn.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyx6Oc7cV9i9lbt74hKahQIACrTwLSFx-Nqqp8MhxUz-9SJM0zPNeban-TT1UyaydeUvLJJiHyROfvU7VQQYv6mT_S0LIxatxM7P8SOOTLF0uct2vXZlJAjCg88TQ-qIW16Lth-Ozq2V1-/s1600/20121206-Cowl-IP.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyx6Oc7cV9i9lbt74hKahQIACrTwLSFx-Nqqp8MhxUz-9SJM0zPNeban-TT1UyaydeUvLJJiHyROfvU7VQQYv6mT_S0LIxatxM7P8SOOTLF0uct2vXZlJAjCg88TQ-qIW16Lth-Ozq2V1-/s320/20121206-Cowl-IP.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A chart that only makes sense to me.</td></tr>
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The plan at present is to finish the nude cowl and post the pattern to ravelry. I'll likely also make a few swatches in different yarn weights and yarn types. Regardless, I like it. Maybe one day I'll turn it into a shawl...zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-23751519878869291332012-11-28T17:53:00.000-08:002012-11-28T19:04:27.962-08:00Soap Making Links / ResourcesA friend of mine (who is beautiful and amazing) asked me recently to send her some information on how to make soap. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21m-gftEiYAPQuskGvxUB62joTBMfkyhDQmFRWN4Qs3NafBc6mUXfzn9cFBX_UG2_1wATjJstNVHfTu9wCnZOJ4N4BNrMbQputd0WnyIkrau3KAy8JeQzd4pAGa1riJT0WHiDuvPIyYZ_/s1600/IMG_8626.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21m-gftEiYAPQuskGvxUB62joTBMfkyhDQmFRWN4Qs3NafBc6mUXfzn9cFBX_UG2_1wATjJstNVHfTu9wCnZOJ4N4BNrMbQputd0WnyIkrau3KAy8JeQzd4pAGa1riJT0WHiDuvPIyYZ_/s320/IMG_8626.JPG" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5684010384344477730" style="display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
I started making soap for entirely skin-selfish purposes several years ago. I adore how real soap feels and how it actually helps moisturize (note, I use the word "moisturize" even though it is abhorrent sounding) instead of sucking skin dry like the detergent "soap" you buy from the store (ala Dial, Dove, et. al.) and even most boutiques. <br />
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So, I'm not going to re-create the wheel; I'm just going to gather everything that's been useful to me in one place (which will hopefully be useful to you).<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>Resources I Use Frequently</u>... <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>so as to NOT recreate the wheel</i></span></div>
1. <b>Tutorials</b> - I like craftster.org for tutorials (for soap especially) because they'll answer you if you have questions; however, chances are most questions you'll want to ask have already been asked and answered; therefore you should do a thorough search of the board first. <br />
A) Start <a href="http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=267859.0" target="_blank">here; this is the best tutorial I've found for basic soap making</a><br />
B) Then, go <a href="http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=234242.0" target="_blank">here; this is for after you've made a few batches successfully. </a><br />
2. <a href="http://www.soapcalc.net/calc/SoapCalcWP.asp" target="_blank"><b>Soap calculator</b>: This is ESSENTIAL for soap making and is a godsend</a>. Fiddle around with it to make your own recipes. <br />
3. <b>99% of what you need</b> can be bought here: <a href="http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/" target="_blank">Wholesale Supplies Plus</a> but, they don't sell lye...<br />
4. <b>The other 1%</b>: <a href="http://www.aaa-chemicals.com/sodium-hydroxide.html" target="_blank">Buy lye here </a>or you can find it at some Ace Hardware stores. I recommend you call Ace ahead of time (before driving there) to ask if they have it. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjreSUgPTUSJXskffYsCv32akNQaVulxYaVpLSJgoHdI8NjRRzfB2CDhip_pItRE8BEgPhlVvLcTIx6Et69Q8DqeId1XY3xQryVJ4luKvxcFNWz_JwBgmyXqodwChDx_UnURzkjPnAaKcSe/s1600/IMG_8623.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjreSUgPTUSJXskffYsCv32akNQaVulxYaVpLSJgoHdI8NjRRzfB2CDhip_pItRE8BEgPhlVvLcTIx6Et69Q8DqeId1XY3xQryVJ4luKvxcFNWz_JwBgmyXqodwChDx_UnURzkjPnAaKcSe/s320/IMG_8623.JPG" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5684010253782096850" style="display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>Other Notes of Note From My Brain</u></div>
<ol>
<li><b>Equipment:</b> </li>
<ol>
<li>I recommend a <i>hand stick blender</i>. My friend J started using it in her soap making and it helps (a lot) bringing the soap to "trace." <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-CSB-77-Blender-Chopper-Attachments/dp/B0006G3JRO" target="_blank">I have this one</a> and use it only for soap making</li>
<li><i>A digital scale</i> is essential (see #6 below)</li>
</ol>
<li>Speaking of essential- <b>Essential Oils</b>: So... once you start making soap you're going to realize that essential oils are the coolest and yet the most costly part of soap making. They have a lot to do with how your soap makes you feel and have therapeutic properties. There is this place called <a href="http://essentialoils.org/" target="_blank">Essential Oil University</a> that is pretty amazing. I buy my EO's there. However, I heard a rumor that they stopped selling EOs in less than $10K bulk orders. I don't know if this is true as I haven't purchased anything in over a year... Regardless, the research available there on EOs is really impressive.</li>
<li><b>Soap Molds</b>: I use old milk and egg beater containers/cartons to make my soap. I used to struggle with lining molds with parchment paper and cursing like a motherless sailor trying to get the soap in and out. Now, I pour the mixture directly into a cleaned out container then, 24 hours later, peel back the paper/ cardboard and toss it (the carton). This has made my soap making 100% stress free and I love it.</li>
<li><b>Not included in the above tutorials </b>(I think... or maybe touched on, but it bears repeating): after the mixture is poured into the mold I cover it with parchment paper and wrap it in a warm blanket and LEAVE IT ALONE for no less than 24 hours. Do not look, do not touch it. It is important to wrap it in a warm blanket so the soap doesn't cool too rapidly. This has always worked for me.</li>
<li><b>Don't be too ambitious</b> with your first batch: keep it simple so you don't get put off. Try an olive oil, coconut oil, grapeseed oil soap first (all of which you can buy at your local store). I recommend 20% coconut (for hardness and lather), 40% olive oil, and 40% grapeseed oil. Also, use lavender as your first EO. Everyone loves lavender and it is fairly benign in terms of affecting the texture of your soap (some EOs can drastically effect the soapafication process). Also, don't use beer or milk in your first few batches. You will just become enraged and start smashing things. </li>
<li><b>Be precise</b>: You have to be as precise as is possible (to the gram) with your water, lye, and oils. If your soap fails it's likely because you were imprecise. </li>
</ol>
Ok, so, that's it. Happy soaping!!<br />
(PS sorry for re-using old pictures. This post reminds me I need to make some new soap!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFsbMGE4lzig7FwmKRF8oqYgj118yNI5HZqB32IlZkxeNub9u1hRSZEhRFBfePPYEIqRThIXu4K-iBJpfDPqVto2U_6iQNPxxhsEMOXjjSNO43rhNyZLwOxmtQSDw32Rf6pnriQg0a-8hh/s1600/IMG_8622.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFsbMGE4lzig7FwmKRF8oqYgj118yNI5HZqB32IlZkxeNub9u1hRSZEhRFBfePPYEIqRThIXu4K-iBJpfDPqVto2U_6iQNPxxhsEMOXjjSNO43rhNyZLwOxmtQSDw32Rf6pnriQg0a-8hh/s320/IMG_8622.JPG" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5684010122044680626" style="display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-74944010690847912472012-11-25T16:41:00.000-08:002012-11-26T05:39:41.063-08:00Gift for Him Knitting Pattern: The Surly Man Cowl<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/surly-man-cowl" target="_blank">Link to Pattern</a> <br />
I was browsing around ravelry late at night (my first mistake) and thought I found a cowl pattern which I loved and which I felt would be perfect for my husband. I didn't favorite it or queue it (second mistake). Rather, I made a mental note (if you are anything like me then your mental notes are written in Latin and in disappearing ink on the back of an old, greasy pizza box) regarding what the cowl looked like (I thought swirly?) and the search term I used (I thought "man cowl"?).<br />
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Well three or four days later, when I was ready to start knitting the cowl, I couldn't find the pattern. Therefore, I just knit it based on my murky midnight memory. <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/zilamonster/man-cowl" target="_blank">Link to my project page</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip1QHs5Tn-7OYCLUneNoxzoXcgU_1pRwa2R2ahEdOy_bg0KgJVCjbQpMA_-zYZIw6SugGcVRF1UVqaXLPJRVQztB6r4ueZtMy4RdPQA8MK6tEIjl0ZMu7OF-2HwLBBw8CPu8wuI9rni9hU/s1600/this+one+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip1QHs5Tn-7OYCLUneNoxzoXcgU_1pRwa2R2ahEdOy_bg0KgJVCjbQpMA_-zYZIw6SugGcVRF1UVqaXLPJRVQztB6r4ueZtMy4RdPQA8MK6tEIjl0ZMu7OF-2HwLBBw8CPu8wuI9rni9hU/s400/this+one+1.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
Here it is on Mr. Surly Man himself. I was lucky to get the shot. Maybe I'll post a better picture when I can get him to hold still longer... Regardless, back to my story:<br />
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After an extensive search on ravelry several days later I still couldn't find it or a similar pattern (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/spiral-cowl-2" target="_blank">this one</a> is the closest and uses yarn-overs and decreases I think whereas I wanted to use only knits and purls). Therefore, I've quickly typed one up.<br />
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It doesn't have to be for a Surly Man, it will work for a Surly Woman just as well. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-umtFjzzFUfXvPraCOAf9SwEisee7hnQbRcV8BTuWF0DzxH8_TKDpCmlRdjNgvM8h0zx-houoFUx_NLoRisK04zru1MZib8RqVQ-s7F94Qi_SvyCucvC4rjjWdp5koST8wn4OXEA5sOUg/s1600/this+one+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-umtFjzzFUfXvPraCOAf9SwEisee7hnQbRcV8BTuWF0DzxH8_TKDpCmlRdjNgvM8h0zx-houoFUx_NLoRisK04zru1MZib8RqVQ-s7F94Qi_SvyCucvC4rjjWdp5koST8wn4OXEA5sOUg/s320/this+one+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's simple (really, really simple) and brainless (hence, a good pattern for me). I hope you make it for the surly (wo)man in your life.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdtThO2KtolXuuuQtfVRmop2PGgUElyhvU-0R51cW0_gikkIS3WtcrCPReBGhJtb7BK0ODz1zqyw51PaJpL0UOjkyGTIFaTM6rWNYWbhIvtXg_IkOzJ_gSFvXTH1i8j6yo0rJpTZKmJEer/s1600/this+one+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdtThO2KtolXuuuQtfVRmop2PGgUElyhvU-0R51cW0_gikkIS3WtcrCPReBGhJtb7BK0ODz1zqyw51PaJpL0UOjkyGTIFaTM6rWNYWbhIvtXg_IkOzJ_gSFvXTH1i8j6yo0rJpTZKmJEer/s320/this+one+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-72023551869387448812012-11-21T08:02:00.000-08:002012-11-22T18:14:13.404-08:00Christmas Cards and Santa Robots<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Tomorrow is Thanksgiving but, in my brain, Thanksgiving is over and it's time to prepare for Christmas. I think this might be because last year didn't feel like Christmas at all; it was: <i>whhoooooosh! Happy New Year. What? Christmas? Yeah, that happened; I think you were asleep. We didn't want to wake you up.</i></div>
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Last year's Christmas wasn't stressful; in fact, I don't even remember it. Work was stressful and I was staying late at the office quite a bit, working weekends, and spending no time doing Christmassy stuff with my family. I feel like this year I am making up for last year; this year we're having Christmas squared.</div>
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<b>First up: Christmas Cards</b></div>
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I really like robots. I've decided that Robo-Santa will be the theme of our Christmas cards this year. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBd9wlbZbM0FWhgZUKx7rAiN_BwB20z0LKzJgz00Ni2t1ZWji3WOsybTvN_T8-vT2n2Ze80JTUTlVxohya8-9Ifp9S9wRLVnNGX0x_7IcG1-KoWQNlFg_WkK_rZpLhj3gZNMqVbYL9ahAY/s1600/IMG_2004.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBd9wlbZbM0FWhgZUKx7rAiN_BwB20z0LKzJgz00Ni2t1ZWji3WOsybTvN_T8-vT2n2Ze80JTUTlVxohya8-9Ifp9S9wRLVnNGX0x_7IcG1-KoWQNlFg_WkK_rZpLhj3gZNMqVbYL9ahAY/s320/IMG_2004.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Four, count them, four Robo-Santas</td></tr>
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The stamp set I carved is modular so I can switch out the hat and center- just in case I need a Valentines robot or an Easter robot. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTFUQDDRkabl4_m6-16aTit7Nq8R9sRhzxWE1Vpuxlzr9D4m8nn6bkn1U8V-B42FUFHPWYbnKTXMYrOsawLJV2beIQMMVNaxupP8EUbVcubJrjzQMFKP0hscAc4K-J8ybRoVca6ckd7gxN/s1600/IMG_1999.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTFUQDDRkabl4_m6-16aTit7Nq8R9sRhzxWE1Vpuxlzr9D4m8nn6bkn1U8V-B42FUFHPWYbnKTXMYrOsawLJV2beIQMMVNaxupP8EUbVcubJrjzQMFKP0hscAc4K-J8ybRoVca6ckd7gxN/s320/IMG_1999.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two sets of legs, two options for arms</td></tr>
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I carved two sets of legs and arms so I could make Robo-Santa tall or short depending on the card size.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRk9gDYkhA3EuHuOPQm2xh_Vl3SQrqrHo0v9LADeQh105gx1PRZEy7SrujQoGiBYiY28kI09mKloH6dxyBlwYK5ndw3L6kt51KNflsUtymlqyUIvD5m9jvHddsUKbmJU93GWpPbbCRgKV/s1600/IMG_1992.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRk9gDYkhA3EuHuOPQm2xh_Vl3SQrqrHo0v9LADeQh105gx1PRZEy7SrujQoGiBYiY28kI09mKloH6dxyBlwYK5ndw3L6kt51KNflsUtymlqyUIvD5m9jvHddsUKbmJU93GWpPbbCRgKV/s320/IMG_1992.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
Stamping is the fun part. I like how he turned out looking a little nervous. It's the cutting out part that gets tiresome.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt5FNDTq5m6ZBMPfOQcSnD9IgQdXwsmbh4NWQvNYjWGEBTOu-8_HMl3wg1c4t7DJmP_UOr-AThfMbSBReWBQTpzGRwjCGLRaDVRWBkB_7cSC6tD3B33WrhGtzP43GMGb8Ru7J1P0TUkSaC/s1600/IMG_2003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt5FNDTq5m6ZBMPfOQcSnD9IgQdXwsmbh4NWQvNYjWGEBTOu-8_HMl3wg1c4t7DJmP_UOr-AThfMbSBReWBQTpzGRwjCGLRaDVRWBkB_7cSC6tD3B33WrhGtzP43GMGb8Ru7J1P0TUkSaC/s320/IMG_2003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty soon I'll be rich in Santbots, or Robo-Santas, or RoSanBotas. </td></tr>
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I was thinking of stamping him in various poses and printing some Robo-Santas over at Spoonflower, maybe make a Robo-Santa pocket advent calendar. As usual, I think my ideas are beyond the limitations set by time. But, it's fun to think about.<br />
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What about you? What are you doing for cards this year?zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-13965125979637421362012-11-01T14:07:00.003-07:002012-11-05T14:43:56.086-08:00Chicago -OR- What I love about middle children<b>Warning</b>:<i> this is going to be one of those not-necessarily-crafty, essay type posts. </i><br />
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There is something really special about Chicago. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz-a-WZl2scv-DoNfWVWP3ccQKDN8jNVAQ_6uqOd4j0lUcZYKvrgYbFsfVht-a2BFFTLEvSsXFBglUfk4t6U67A1sBc8Wah7Ab535aS404izGFY2YIDSSYbKiFNbkANd_nqT95hMG8eAo9/s1600/IMG_0091.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz-a-WZl2scv-DoNfWVWP3ccQKDN8jNVAQ_6uqOd4j0lUcZYKvrgYbFsfVht-a2BFFTLEvSsXFBglUfk4t6U67A1sBc8Wah7Ab535aS404izGFY2YIDSSYbKiFNbkANd_nqT95hMG8eAo9/s1600/IMG_0091.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8fjEXO3gml6B3aT7qB5lU5UnK3sWBP1J-Zlf-2Qfr-hfDc4UV4nYR7OjSPcIrNko95DE3fjhLgNaOjZKjwZs6XFXXhnH_rk7CjjO2H35-mll5xL8zPKMZI-MbsTPpP2VWX-11g0-HvWpc/s1600/IMG_0089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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Chicago is the proverbial middle child of large US cities. Some might consider this analogy only in reference to Chicago's geographic location (it's in the middle of the country). However, the analogy is multifaceted; like most middle children and like books between elaborate bookends, Chicago can sometimes be easy to overlook.<br />
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It is smart and genuine but always compared- for better or for worse- to its older and younger siblings: it's the less notorious but smarter sister to New York; it's the
less ostentatious but considerably more genuine sister to Los Angeles. It is breathtaking and beautiful and yet somehow caught in the blindspot of popular consciousness.<br />
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But, I wonder- like most middle children- if Chicago prefers to shy from the onerous and usually dysfunctional limelight of notoriety; I hypothesize that it is more than to content to be smart and genuine and breathtaking without attracting the attention that plagues those that are notorious and ostentatious.<br />
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zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-36413506492659247102012-10-31T01:16:00.000-07:002012-11-21T01:18:05.279-08:00Happy Halloween!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-16953959906572568432012-10-09T19:02:00.000-07:002012-10-09T19:16:26.455-07:00Leather Wallet from PANTS! Recyling and Upcycling<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>The Short Story: </b><u><br /></u></div>
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<u>Before:</u></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisPtStff4hR2YrgQYc7aRV9L4ddGeYV5vRx-Tef4g5iqcYxidc7iRqDdZQAFlvYuN3vxrCK9JTtYgJps8cjaRCVqhysgWuzlkUbhxGCgafS2aTFbQyJ_6uX3kpMdB063j9SFYyGa5D0ieA/s1600/07.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisPtStff4hR2YrgQYc7aRV9L4ddGeYV5vRx-Tef4g5iqcYxidc7iRqDdZQAFlvYuN3vxrCK9JTtYgJps8cjaRCVqhysgWuzlkUbhxGCgafS2aTFbQyJ_6uX3kpMdB063j9SFYyGa5D0ieA/s320/07.JPG" width="207" /></a> </div>
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<u>After:</u></div>
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<b>The Long Story:</b> So, I bought these leather pants... <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYg0R8eMSY4l8AmlK6f5W6Rzzw1FyfvjShjVl2hbdoXQEtaVYERhga6KNitqIpE33cOfgxHz1mhxgz6QBIKURWXKCQnXFuFvcBo33HrstZSDMPTEXk7otz7NNGAUk-3u_IfB2WJfeRpdw/s1600/08.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYg0R8eMSY4l8AmlK6f5W6Rzzw1FyfvjShjVl2hbdoXQEtaVYERhga6KNitqIpE33cOfgxHz1mhxgz6QBIKURWXKCQnXFuFvcBo33HrstZSDMPTEXk7otz7NNGAUk-3u_IfB2WJfeRpdw/s320/08.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"These" leather pants</td></tr>
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I've always wanted to start a blog post with the phrase: "So, I bought these leather pants"<br />
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Unfortunately, (or, fortunately) the pants were not for me to wear. The pants were for me to deconstruct and reconstruct. I was thrift store shopping with the husband on a rare afternoon where we were kid free and I came across them. They were $20 but the leather was in really good condition and obviously very high quality (not that I am a leather connoisseur... I wonder, are there such people? Are there "Leather connoisseurs"? If so, please raise your hand.)<br />
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I purchased the pants and planned to turn part of them into a purse, part into a new kindle cover, and part into a wallet. Since I am the #1 good-time fan girl of immediate gratification, I chose to do the wallet first.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC83dkzjPm5eYXUotVRLs7ObGBlUj5tSUCcD2fUvSCsz7zCVPhcX75KXroduqKjWpo3mpd82pY-m1XszLD_RY07smeCuTXl3q5Qq8Tds-ag2xr1oW4nl9486myQYYAE-vLHpzk-OMKxLjV/s1600/06.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC83dkzjPm5eYXUotVRLs7ObGBlUj5tSUCcD2fUvSCsz7zCVPhcX75KXroduqKjWpo3mpd82pY-m1XszLD_RY07smeCuTXl3q5Qq8Tds-ag2xr1oW4nl9486myQYYAE-vLHpzk-OMKxLjV/s320/06.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scraps used to make wallet.</td></tr>
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I found some scraps to coordinate, vintage buttons, small zipper and here is what I came up with:</div>
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Starting Dimensions: 8.5" x 6" (open)</div>
Final Dimensions: 7.5" x 5" (open) <br />
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<u>Things I learned about leather:</u></div>
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1. You really, really, really need a non-stick foot to sew leather. I did this wallet without one and it super-sucked. I won't attempt any more leather projects without it. The issue is that the sewing machine foot pulls against the leather which makes it stretch as you sew. The leather stretches but the cloth material does not. This makes the cloth bunch/sag when the leather returns to its previous shape. I'll post an update perspective on sewing with leather when I get a chance to use the Teflon foot I ordered from Viking. </div>
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2. It is great for inlaid zippers. Since the edge of the leather doesn't fray, adding the zipper was a piece o' cake.</div>
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3. Use double sided tape instead of pins: it will stick to the leather and create just enough adhesion to keep the project together. It's not like you're going to wash your finished object in the washing machine so... who cares about washibility of the double sided tape. </div>
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Final thoughts: I love the wallet. It fits my phone, cards, and some change. Very happy with it. Looking forward to making more, this time with the Teflon foot.</div>
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If you've ever worked with leather I'd love to hear your tips/ tricks/ thoughts. </div>
zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-62282152609808645522012-10-04T10:45:00.000-07:002012-10-04T16:53:31.387-07:00Yarn IndecisionSo, I've started a knitalong of the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/staghorn-cabled-tunic" target="_blank">Staghorn Tunic</a> with the fantastic <a href="http://looptangle.com/" target="_blank">looptange</a>. After a great deal of deliberation I finally decided to use stash of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/queensland-collection-kathmandu-aran" target="_blank">Queensland Aran</a> for the tunic. The yarn is a little uneven and now I am having second thoughts...<br />
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I love the pattern, I love the yarn, I just don't know if I love the yarn for this pattern...<br />
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Most of the projects completed thus far for the tunic use grey. Should I start over with grey/different yarn or should I continue with the green?<br />
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Thoughts??zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-56706010788792899712012-10-01T18:40:00.001-07:002012-10-02T16:24:34.979-07:00Kind of a random post: Doodling and HalloweenI've become rather fond of doodling. Some interesting doodle facts:<br />
1. A group of geniuses got together and decided to charge people in order to teach them how to doodle.<br />
2. One form of this is called Zentangle. I feel like Zentangle must have actually been created by people who- in 7th grade- were really impressive at doodling but not much else.<br />
3. Zendangle aside, there is a theory that doodling is really good for the brain, aiding with relaxation and memory (see <span class="reference-text"><span class="citation Journal">Andrade, Jackie (January 2010). "What does doodling do?". <i><a class="new" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Applied_Cognitive_Psychology&action=edit&redlink=1" title="Applied Cognitive Psychology (page does not exist)">Applied Cognitive Psychology</a></i> )</span></span>.<br />
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Lately I've been doodling Halloween faces- <br />
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I don't know why but most of the faces are missing noses. I'm just not that great at noses. My plan is to make the face stamps first then doodle/carve some interchangeable bodies (torso, arms, legs). Maybe I'll finish before Halloween and use them for cards this year! ... a much more likely scenario, however, is that I spend the next 5 months carving them instead of making Christmas Cards and rediscover the stamps next year 2 days before Halloween. ;-) <br />
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zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-25499598305313475422012-09-22T13:46:00.001-07:002012-09-22T22:05:30.085-07:00I came, I saw, I pieced a kite quiltI've made many patchwork baby blankets (or- what I call- quilt cheating). I've always wanted to actually quilt (what I think most people call "piecing") but I've never taken a class and didn't really know where to start.<br />
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Then I saw <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fEtBk_h6-iI/T2jPHQVibgI/AAAAAAAAIbQ/n4HEG1Qm0PA/Fly%252520a%252520Kite%252520Quilt%25255B4%25255D.jpg" target="_blank">this quilt </a>and fell in love.<br />
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So, I faked it: <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8XtoV4jAx65eLijF3oPBKKcZDY5ao9MVynjX7lbzsvmjw_xM8wNABhONi1JQtkL8qBIVKoq2V2mRuW_jUDQGtSRgjeQaeou9YdAuRMSumnNmvyepY49oTxFzrioAERL4bsGrjnwFtm5uR/s1600/IMG_2590.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8XtoV4jAx65eLijF3oPBKKcZDY5ao9MVynjX7lbzsvmjw_xM8wNABhONi1JQtkL8qBIVKoq2V2mRuW_jUDQGtSRgjeQaeou9YdAuRMSumnNmvyepY49oTxFzrioAERL4bsGrjnwFtm5uR/s400/IMG_2590.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg62o2BAZSwsV3VfifNejwTkDMT_oKixCNDYOKWcIkvVXvjx-Ie4edM-iMkPlIcQ7lhyphenhyphenDwwcaX9cDJhlGE08BJwNtISgvsxabq0a1oyAwh7zSlRz0qiNlrB9XuHRvqkQlHPyQcQ9Yk7jg6M/s1600/IMG_2627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg62o2BAZSwsV3VfifNejwTkDMT_oKixCNDYOKWcIkvVXvjx-Ie4edM-iMkPlIcQ7lhyphenhyphenDwwcaX9cDJhlGE08BJwNtISgvsxabq0a1oyAwh7zSlRz0qiNlrB9XuHRvqkQlHPyQcQ9Yk7jg6M/s400/IMG_2627.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I sketched out my own pattern/pieces and made the kites/diamonds much larger than the original (as I'm a fan of instant gratification and larger pieces meant less measuring, cutting, ironing, pinning and sewing...)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKymX0xSqDXIt5YbsxhC3p6JT8NX3JQIr0TQRjC9rBPphR7FKk9FoxOME6Y2mhtaszSlK7Q_1GuIGnQs4O5zAm3BFqEELwOaq6Amqj6eMYAIQOO-JYnE1WBllLiabY_1HPsb0GHMw6ZzjA/s1600/IMG_2640.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKymX0xSqDXIt5YbsxhC3p6JT8NX3JQIr0TQRjC9rBPphR7FKk9FoxOME6Y2mhtaszSlK7Q_1GuIGnQs4O5zAm3BFqEELwOaq6Amqj6eMYAIQOO-JYnE1WBllLiabY_1HPsb0GHMw6ZzjA/s400/IMG_2640.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmO0oBWID1FFjkwbHBKtsvGQ5974caNdGCBHzTLxybcKwkrYTHHCfG06417TtNN0kyOzFsVkRUGOp3iG2Rm76Mz0A3K7YAhH2NRWD-pTcZ1FJv7N6Xszwew4vZJAfUGz-dvBCKn_n52OC2/s1600/IMG_2573.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmO0oBWID1FFjkwbHBKtsvGQ5974caNdGCBHzTLxybcKwkrYTHHCfG06417TtNN0kyOzFsVkRUGOp3iG2Rm76Mz0A3K7YAhH2NRWD-pTcZ1FJv7N6Xszwew4vZJAfUGz-dvBCKn_n52OC2/s640/IMG_2573.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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I'm not 100% sure that I actually did "piecing" correctly, but- if not- I'm pretty sure I faked the hell out of it.zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-52288464244306876762012-09-13T18:00:00.000-07:002012-09-13T14:47:48.250-07:00My thought for today: Do what you love. <br />
At the risk of being a complete cliche, I have decided to write a chick lit romance novel. That's right. I'm doing <i>that thing</i> which will likely make me ridiculous in the eyes of everyone who doesn't actually matter. Honestly though, peeps, I can't seem to bring myself to feel to embarrassed about it because I'm having too much fun. I've added a page to this blog entitled, "Writing Projects."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtPm9WW2QEQI871F-ziOhMHYdRcnmtDZ4dU22HFnTcNfmdDsWyJTo8wGmwxywbQS_JBGaB3PRAZBLRdZceVn6fWGDk48WowGV7m8Rh3AeAeyEil51HRTXxLhvp9j4b8komScAxtBRJYdn0/s1600/WP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtPm9WW2QEQI871F-ziOhMHYdRcnmtDZ4dU22HFnTcNfmdDsWyJTo8wGmwxywbQS_JBGaB3PRAZBLRdZceVn6fWGDk48WowGV7m8Rh3AeAeyEil51HRTXxLhvp9j4b8komScAxtBRJYdn0/s1600/WP.jpg" /></a></div>
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Maybe I've crossed over that youthful line into adult-ville, where things like modesty and fear of being stereotyped don't really seem to matter.<br />
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I love being a mom and I love my kids. I love the work that I do. I have a great husband (and I love him). I love to knit. I love to carve stamps/blocks. I love to sew. I love red wine. I love laughing with my friends. I love to write. And, I love a good romance.<br />
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While you're doing what you love, make sure you give the two hand, two finger salute to anyone who tries to make you feel bad for who you are or what your passions are. If those people mattered, they'd support you and love you regardless and they definitely wouldn't want you to feel ridiculous. <br />
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Just, do what you love.<br />
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Own. It. zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-88372237279786004122012-09-11T18:36:00.000-07:002012-09-22T13:54:10.356-07:00Stamp Carving Roundup: Part 1 Assembling MaterialsIf you are looking for a comprehensive resource/ post on this topic which gives you complete information, alternatives, and comparisons then go here: <br />
<a href="http://www.nettally.com/palmk/Rubber_Stamp_Carving_Tips.html">http://www.nettally.com/palmk/Rubber_Stamp_Carving_Tips.html</a><br />
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If you are looking for a "<i>this is what I do/what a reccommend for beginners</i>" then this post is for you.<br />
Part 1 will cover assembling your materials<br />
Part 2 will cover designing your image and transfering it to your carving material<br />
Part 3 will cover carving your design<br />
Part 4 will cover stamping your image<br />
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<u>1. What you need to get started</u><br />
a. Pencil<br />
b. Tracing paper<br />
c. Carving tool<br />
d. Carving material<br />
e. Self healing mat<br />
d. Paper/fabric<br />
e. Ink<br />
f. A piece of wood (optional)<br />
g. Stamp adhesive (optional)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSV3ZkLuG43lCxytBZUXyToggGGq4XkRn969TM-d_2jwmEMH0Fen9xS5PnAc7Ng5whz83-GVlBZabqD78eMW1UvoVPEFd4RN5VCC3vGC6RXnea_KOzufFTPa5MYy0wWRBM4vqJtY3PSa3q/s1600/IMG_1589.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSV3ZkLuG43lCxytBZUXyToggGGq4XkRn969TM-d_2jwmEMH0Fen9xS5PnAc7Ng5whz83-GVlBZabqD78eMW1UvoVPEFd4RN5VCC3vGC6RXnea_KOzufFTPa5MYy0wWRBM4vqJtY3PSa3q/s400/IMG_1589.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<u>2. Where to get it/ what I reccommend/ why I reccommend it</u>: You can buy<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Speedball-Speedy-Carve-Stamp-Making/dp/B000BYXF4S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1341869986&sr=8-1&keywords=stamp+carving+kit" target="_blank"> a kit here</a> from Amazon if you want to minimize your expenses but it doesn't contain everything I recommend. What I <i>recommend</i> is as follows: <br />
a. Pencil- I prefer a graphite pencil as it will leave a darker image than a #2 when you transfer to or draw on your carving material. You can get this at any art or craft supply store; I bought <a href="http://www.dickblick.com/products/prismacolor-scholar-graphite-drawing-pencils/" target="_blank">this kit</a> (Prismacolor Scholar Graphite Drawing Pencils) from Dick Blicks- once I realized the #2 wasn't ideal- in order to try out different pencils.<br />
b. Tracing paper- you can get this at any art or craft supply store; I use this <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Strathmore-300-Series-Tracing-Paper/dp/B000KNLQKA/ref=sr_1_4?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1341870115&sr=1-4&keywords=tracing+paper" target="_blank">one</a> (<span id="btAsinTitle">Strathmore 300 Series Tracing Paper Pad) and bought it at Joann's.</span><br />
c. Carving tool- you can get this at any art or craft supply store; I use this <a href="http://www.dickblick.com/products/speedball-linoleum-cutters/" target="_blank">one</a> (Speedball Lino Set No. 2) and bought it from Dick Blick.<br />
d. Carving material- I use this <a href="http://www.dickblick.com/products/speedball-speedy-carve-blocks/" target="_blank">one</a> (Speedball Speedy Carve Blocks) and buy it from Dick Blick.<br />
e. Self healing mat- I use this <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-8-Inch-Healing-Rotating-Cutting/dp/B001C230OS/ref=sr_1_8?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1341870276&sr=1-8&keywords=Fiskars++mat" target="_blank">one</a> (<span id="btAsinTitle">Fiskars 8-Inch by 8-Inch Self Healing Rotating Cutting Mat</span>) and bought it from Joann's<br />
d. Paper/fabric- use whatever floats your boat! I find that, for fabric, cotton and linen work best and white or natural color fabric makes for a more vibrant image.<br />
e. Ink- you can buy ink pads that work on paper at any craft store; I have several and prefer none. For fabric I use <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tsukineko-Full-Size-VersaCraft-Crafting-Pigment/dp/B00161Q1MI/ref=sr_1_1?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1341870452&sr=1-1&keywords=versacraft" target="_blank">VersaCraft</a> and buy it from Amazon (best price I've found although you can sometimes find it in an etsy destash sale). I like VersaCraft because it is easy to use, readily available, and heat sets quickly. There are other options out there which will give you more consistent results but- in my experience- are expensive, messy, and require several days to set. Please let me know in comments if you know of any other viable alternatives.<br />
f. A piece of wood or acrylic block- the wood needs to be at least as large as your stamp. I have scrap wood a friend cut for me specifically for my stamping. If you aren't going to mount your stamp (and there are pros/cons to mounting) then you could use a book instead of wood. <br />
g. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/54603263/rubber-stamp-double-stick-cushion?ref=sr_gallery_26&ga_search_query=stamp+adhesive&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_min=0&ga_max=0&ga_search_type=all" target="_blank">Stamp adhesive</a>- only if you are going to mount the stamp.<br />
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Again, the link I included at the beginning of this post is a great resource but- that stated- when I first started to carve stamps I felt a little overwhelmed by all the information provided on the web and felt like- as a beginner- I had too many options (types of carving materials, types of carving tools, types of transfer methods).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzEtATseVO83fosZ95-Fb37tOF90q90pp6dtTxe5-GRA9S16joZvTADubcppE70uHemg1HRrTzh03HKkDbyhRM0MqZVSP3VIDE7kTR59fcAKLgaWclHljZEtLoZXKJ-wwxAl-1FhvkE8cv/s1600/IMG_1592.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzEtATseVO83fosZ95-Fb37tOF90q90pp6dtTxe5-GRA9S16joZvTADubcppE70uHemg1HRrTzh03HKkDbyhRM0MqZVSP3VIDE7kTR59fcAKLgaWclHljZEtLoZXKJ-wwxAl-1FhvkE8cv/s400/IMG_1592.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Next up (in October): <br />
<i>Part 2- Designing your image and transfering it to your carving material</i><br />
<br />zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-41967658634191637742012-09-07T20:00:00.000-07:002012-10-16T05:40:09.811-07:00They're bigger on the inside...<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
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<span style="margin: 0;">I seem to have a collection of friends who enjoy Dr. Who. I really enjoy the show although I haven't been watching recently. AnyWho, I wanted to make something Tardis related for all my Who friends (WHO also happen to all knit or crochet). </span></div>
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<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8450/7886971258_f842c8c930_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8450/7886971258_f842c8c930_b.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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Here is the finished notions/ needle/ hook case.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/zilamonster/7886981182/" title="IMG_1334"><img alt="IMG_1334 by zilamonster" height="213" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8447/7886981182_1a17ebcdd4.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div>
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The Tardis stamp was fairly straight forward. I used speedy carve and my speed ball carving set (both can be purchased online at Amazon or Dick Blicks) </div>
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<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8450/7886975386_7b8819968b_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8450/7886975386_7b8819968b_c.jpg" width="265" /></a> </div>
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I did a few test prints on cotton paper to make sure the stamp had sufficiently clean lines. The great thing about stamps (well, one of the great things) is how mufti-purpose they are. I feel completely justified in making Tardis Festivus cards this year. </div>
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<span style="margin: 0;">I also printed the bottom blue band with 'Bigger on the Inside'. The ink I use is VersaCraft for fabric. You can pick it up on esty or on Amazon.</span></div>
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<span style="margin: 0;">The only regret I have is that I only made three. Next time I need to remember to make one for myself. </span></div>
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zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-88235598968568097362012-09-03T11:24:00.000-07:002012-09-03T18:48:42.496-07:00Bias Shirt Smock- TutorialFind the tutorial <a href="http://www.kateandchris.com/kate/20120902_Bias_Shirt_Smock.pdf" target="_blank">here. It's in PDF.</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.kateandchris.com/kate/20120902_Bias_Shirt_Smock.pdf" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_gRQ1TbrPrUXMKWTTy80HS9YDLqgJabL1jMczKD6lUfmr6Y7i6UmRXA8yCtKdQXQ7Rhn_LdIs0LoOnHIDcQ2ShNUVOYI_2LG_BAZ09YAPKlX6GWfo7DusTXTOiJ7xRCbDmxugpNQ_RKgt/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Feel free to post any finished objects (or even WIPs) to the flickr group <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/2039702@N25/" target="_blank">here</a><br />
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<b>Background</b>: When I went to SAW this last year (I feel like a lot of my posts start out this way...) I used/wore a smock during my classes; I made the smock last year and briefly blogged about it here. I have found the smock to be incredibly useful and wear it when ever I'm crafting (especially with the kids, the pockets are like having another two pairs of hands). <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7wkjlvHcd3E2D0ZKX4E73rT-x5qj5b6dUylW5VTmY07OM5QdhmKhVIinP7OkCS-sbGulOzWXrxjJ6iWDnaqNTNxqy8BBV15qT8r8h647JiGB_ils94Vozw6dt9I4nfJFcuRbwuV5rGuC3/s1600/IMG_2174.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7wkjlvHcd3E2D0ZKX4E73rT-x5qj5b6dUylW5VTmY07OM5QdhmKhVIinP7OkCS-sbGulOzWXrxjJ6iWDnaqNTNxqy8BBV15qT8r8h647JiGB_ils94Vozw6dt9I4nfJFcuRbwuV5rGuC3/s320/IMG_2174.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original smock, still in heavy use</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Anyway, the lovely ladies at SAW gave me many compliments and asked if I had a tutorial for it. I spent most of this summer promising myself I would complete a tutorial by Labor Day. So, with 28 minutes to spare, I did! Last night at 11:32pm EST I sent the finished tutorial to the lovely MB who agreed to review it for me.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEierPifI4thJ8UENhMTgR-O2-R_ZNb__IWfEjMTBEuaBa-kjF70bPbWgDfOD8ayv27salTkzud6HzZIfKQL2e0RCJiQdrY95w1Olm7_MpNo572r5w33KlqsI0XRJjIGRnHdqa-T9SxWX4Xw/s1600/IMG_2218.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEierPifI4thJ8UENhMTgR-O2-R_ZNb__IWfEjMTBEuaBa-kjF70bPbWgDfOD8ayv27salTkzud6HzZIfKQL2e0RCJiQdrY95w1Olm7_MpNo572r5w33KlqsI0XRJjIGRnHdqa-T9SxWX4Xw/s320/IMG_2218.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back of the green smock, front of the purple smock.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz73T3jRZPPCSaqNh9FMUc9l9Esttm9PXAY0Y2KFvHkDewFJiovmyETy70GY00OZWY1nHxyL0oBxDC9czAg1SA6nLfv2wLHdvuQCWsEGYz6flYtWGiBAJdOVFValN4yno7lrELfspESIWa/s1600/smock.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz73T3jRZPPCSaqNh9FMUc9l9Esttm9PXAY0Y2KFvHkDewFJiovmyETy70GY00OZWY1nHxyL0oBxDC9czAg1SA6nLfv2wLHdvuQCWsEGYz6flYtWGiBAJdOVFValN4yno7lrELfspESIWa/s320/smock.jpg" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My fabulous drawing of said smock. I'm sure will be worth millions (of pesos) one day</td></tr>
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<b>Thoughts on writing the tutorial</b>: Writing my first tutorial was really difficult. I kept thinking "what would I want to know?" and tried to use that as a guide. However, I usually want to know too much too quickly. Therefore, I split it up into 3 sections: 1) overview/materials/supplies, 2) quick and dirty diagrams, 3) detail instructions.</div>
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Where possible I also tried to include both drawings and pictures of what was happening (example below, how to make a bias fabric trapezoid). </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHqCMOMPJftRzAzU6WMYf235HjwjdUBrFVUUf5MJJF0VZpqxxkGc174uCxDupAZT8-jmKo7op5t2ewtAsK4mrDhlbPM34WKIx-93MS05LIJDvOgpEMp0WuXN4uD7AwTfLYyNMHI1qxIxIn/s1600/Bias-Fabric.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHqCMOMPJftRzAzU6WMYf235HjwjdUBrFVUUf5MJJF0VZpqxxkGc174uCxDupAZT8-jmKo7op5t2ewtAsK4mrDhlbPM34WKIx-93MS05LIJDvOgpEMp0WuXN4uD7AwTfLYyNMHI1qxIxIn/s400/Bias-Fabric.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hoping this doesn't look like a diagram of a football play</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidHApkCEWiqmxpue9RxZoOi0IydFVQzgwqK6lSTiERhwGVqLrvzzpSXvUViWtKgGUbgvkb1wK9XfhpufHnY6lbYSGFgVA79sCwheyXCs_DAMZGmWW_aHIAL2U4SQrGndpwxrLKXih7Ba4/s1600/IMG_2096.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidHApkCEWiqmxpue9RxZoOi0IydFVQzgwqK6lSTiERhwGVqLrvzzpSXvUViWtKgGUbgvkb1wK9XfhpufHnY6lbYSGFgVA79sCwheyXCs_DAMZGmWW_aHIAL2U4SQrGndpwxrLKXih7Ba4/s400/IMG_2096.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Basically, this is a real image of the drawing above.</td></tr>
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The two key things in this pattern/tutorial are using bias fabric and choosing a shirt you like but which also fits easily over your chest and shoulders without too much trouble. As you can see below, the shirt I used to make the latest smock has plenty of room around my rib cage.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5RE9nPJ7ZKsIrw2KX2SCKGZKFvAdJVCyQPbLFC8AinI2ShOYAM9I5Xr-Ah9VMA75zF_faffg03LhtresZqBTQzOyGn4BX06UoE62u8a1zhKMLOw92Nf2wg0_c_C9ARcz4IujvO3UwXuuq/s1600/IMG_2059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5RE9nPJ7ZKsIrw2KX2SCKGZKFvAdJVCyQPbLFC8AinI2ShOYAM9I5Xr-Ah9VMA75zF_faffg03LhtresZqBTQzOyGn4BX06UoE62u8a1zhKMLOw92Nf2wg0_c_C9ARcz4IujvO3UwXuuq/s320/IMG_2059.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Using a large shirt is preferable, just as long as it's not falling off...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyHrVXiO-X2m6sWKrO4H1IAipZF8fzLoEMgJPUuvekqZkkIzir9TyIcXPohXkszV_S5Kd_lQuCuGpxFAu8fR110Za3_uzjjcG6L9Lz1vj7ORO-7Y68QBILPOlVRW6rFU3EAqi0Yyk6aTB5/s1600/IMG_2151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyHrVXiO-X2m6sWKrO4H1IAipZF8fzLoEMgJPUuvekqZkkIzir9TyIcXPohXkszV_S5Kd_lQuCuGpxFAu8fR110Za3_uzjjcG6L9Lz1vj7ORO-7Y68QBILPOlVRW6rFU3EAqi0Yyk6aTB5/s320/IMG_2151.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I purposefully made this smock rather plain; rickrack can be your friend. </td></tr>
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Also, something I don't go over in the tutorial is embellishment. I'm excited to see what people do with this simple design to make it their own.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigihiyK9EgcCRc8itu2QhqcdwNML-b8vSUodQchoTXpij_Tfdw_5HMr95nh-vC-1PmnoDUZwHtAl4r2koiHQ9BYeEJsWL0xGdDyKf6nab2AeEtKXEuwAoi3hjbVPXaM9MKLnlLElC7kL1P/s1600/IMG_2163.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigihiyK9EgcCRc8itu2QhqcdwNML-b8vSUodQchoTXpij_Tfdw_5HMr95nh-vC-1PmnoDUZwHtAl4r2koiHQ9BYeEJsWL0xGdDyKf6nab2AeEtKXEuwAoi3hjbVPXaM9MKLnlLElC7kL1P/s320/IMG_2163.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pocket fabric is one of Anna Maria Horner's; I have a girl crush on her, it's true.</td></tr>
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I hope not only that you all make it but actually enjoy making
it. Please let me know if you encounter any issues; I'd like to improve my tutorial writing abilities so don't hesitate to let me know if parts are unclear/need additional info.<br />
<br />
Happy smocking! and special thanks to <a href="http://mayamade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Maya</a> for her encouragement. <br />
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<br />zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-48921506173422014292012-09-02T20:05:00.000-07:002012-09-03T11:51:34.539-07:00Smock tutorial update and spoiler alert...Ahoy.<br />
So, I finished another of my bias smocks. However, this time I took plenty of pictures and have drafted a tutorial! I have sent it off to my volunteer reader; once she confirms there are no obvious errors I will post the tutorial for general consumption... I just hope someone consumes it.<br />
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In the meantime- another <b>TA DA!</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrvpO7nNkMUTVoU3GH9vQeWhZdcuWg_Q5eeMZ285wDlEYAxCKHqt3ut-UBbEbwTIEx5ZOqwvVkX7GhXEQ6cnMlZobbgpC8LvHj_733BNM3jBN_gV5pmQkjBcvbbs93DbmEZMvsp6S0_4dS/s1600/IMG_2168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrvpO7nNkMUTVoU3GH9vQeWhZdcuWg_Q5eeMZ285wDlEYAxCKHqt3ut-UBbEbwTIEx5ZOqwvVkX7GhXEQ6cnMlZobbgpC8LvHj_733BNM3jBN_gV5pmQkjBcvbbs93DbmEZMvsp6S0_4dS/s400/IMG_2168.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Husband making me laugh at the silliness of my smock photoshoot.</td></tr>
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Tutorials are hard work! Although, admittedly, I may have been overly comprehensive...zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-52654872849105974882012-08-30T18:11:00.002-07:002012-08-30T18:13:09.947-07:00Craft Calling Card Bonanza <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Coming back from SAW in June 2012 I came to the realization that I
need calling cards (non-business business cards, whatever you want to
call them). <br />
I found <a href="http://stocklogos.com/topic/ultimate-creative-business-cards-collection" target="_blank">this page</a> and then lost several hours of my life scrolling. <br />
<a href="http://creativebits.org/files/blood.jpg" target="_blank">This one</a> is my favorite. <br />
<a href="http://creativebits.org/files/2d-barcode-business-card.jpg" target="_blank">This one</a> seems like the most practical.<br />
<a href="http://creativebits.org/files/patchwork.jpg" target="_blank">This one</a> was the most applicable but I didn't want to zoink someone else's idea.<br />
<br />
However, looking
through them actually really helped; I was able to focus on the
elements I liked (reusable, sustainable, representative of my
interests) and I'm feeling pretty good about my front runner. So....<br />
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<b>Ta da!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTMiXMa9FfB3s1-j-7aH3IFNtyECJHKEaW5OcvJgGzPfQ_cxwhTfxJsFspRbWrRK_-yZVqVkjc1edOdsd4b64Bsad495nFLEMvEblGuFujr8LCulU5HH0VzvZI5t-HKhEiH7q7xOnZOV1k/s1600/IMG_1755.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTMiXMa9FfB3s1-j-7aH3IFNtyECJHKEaW5OcvJgGzPfQ_cxwhTfxJsFspRbWrRK_-yZVqVkjc1edOdsd4b64Bsad495nFLEMvEblGuFujr8LCulU5HH0VzvZI5t-HKhEiH7q7xOnZOV1k/s400/IMG_1755.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
<b>For the card material</b>: I've
been looking for a use for all the cereal-box-packaging we have. We go
through a good amount of this nice cardboard stock and recycle it every
week; what a waste!I sprayed the cereal boxes with spray adhesive and affixed cotton paper to the sticky side.<br />
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<b>Design</b>: I started with a simple design (below) with my old blog name (zizzerzazzerzuz). I stamped my name on the back of the card. I then carved my design<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5QIDhXT2LgCe5_TNJCGqBqwSYHYBxaCUQbVLDk_zgSVPcpBrYuiU-m5tQAcPxlHX1ghhBIUalmAqiQh5Of696zkyodPxdC0J_VxmE4xBfKQStOIfZLkCycI2eZk-8y9slhVkeoLoO5Tgv/s1600/IMG_1710.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5QIDhXT2LgCe5_TNJCGqBqwSYHYBxaCUQbVLDk_zgSVPcpBrYuiU-m5tQAcPxlHX1ghhBIUalmAqiQh5Of696zkyodPxdC0J_VxmE4xBfKQStOIfZLkCycI2eZk-8y9slhVkeoLoO5Tgv/s320/IMG_1710.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Design 1</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX87FNz0Ft3fGbV5pP_oSaaVBevF7WnoINouRI2V7kQfvnGWlp7ij3aWh2iCZNZr30Vb6BJDSlCaoXOx5ZCkKJ-sbNNZqfbLzkdSH_QJOifuuKVUQNQY5ZHPLxRJTtjK-ipmmV7brlxzkr/s1600/IMG_1723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX87FNz0Ft3fGbV5pP_oSaaVBevF7WnoINouRI2V7kQfvnGWlp7ij3aWh2iCZNZr30Vb6BJDSlCaoXOx5ZCkKJ-sbNNZqfbLzkdSH_QJOifuuKVUQNQY5ZHPLxRJTtjK-ipmmV7brlxzkr/s320/IMG_1723.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stamp, card front, card back</td></tr>
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I kept looking at the first design thinking it looked like the owl was resting against a tree. So... I re-did it with the owl on a tree branch and the words within a carved heart.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLs0HhsrzsSMolL1tkcwjteQZQArPfsxmMoOV0czB9D5mNIz1Dtg6dkv2KcEIr6a5SVwYwvxv0fH4tD7Xuvfc6OoSb_DeT9EKW__PJTJgZnxO7qBlLHlWJApnlfuYWex-2gOR5dUNbMe2a/s1600/IMG_1770.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLs0HhsrzsSMolL1tkcwjteQZQArPfsxmMoOV0czB9D5mNIz1Dtg6dkv2KcEIr6a5SVwYwvxv0fH4tD7Xuvfc6OoSb_DeT9EKW__PJTJgZnxO7qBlLHlWJApnlfuYWex-2gOR5dUNbMe2a/s320/IMG_1770.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First sketch of new design</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs4PEfH7gHy3BnNrsyDZ3RdzVo0vpu12u1qC5sS90fgxP2VvwERBJVz9hoAQIWWIlPLWjY7cQMTaWm28-WLamUWL0mH9WcsE4lz2VRFDk0lEUy0umh6XSqbjfh7lAVLTxOQ5pVLknakMMg/s1600/IMG_1757.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs4PEfH7gHy3BnNrsyDZ3RdzVo0vpu12u1qC5sS90fgxP2VvwERBJVz9hoAQIWWIlPLWjY7cQMTaWm28-WLamUWL0mH9WcsE4lz2VRFDk0lEUy0umh6XSqbjfh7lAVLTxOQ5pVLknakMMg/s320/IMG_1757.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carved stamp of design</td></tr>
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I decided after the fact to remove the heart area so I could create multiple designs to fit into that space. It also allows me to use alternate colors. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2IUR5daDcrxjwCK0-0jHAvy1MA3h06i99UuuSiNAoTVrZTyhsJdAK2hIX2F9GTZdB7UmQ1l1t7q1ky37L_0t3RF9J02pHZKA_TExQpkf1lJWAuVIRNwixPx6g-v4emVYveL5tD0rUlax3/s1600/IMG_1735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2IUR5daDcrxjwCK0-0jHAvy1MA3h06i99UuuSiNAoTVrZTyhsJdAK2hIX2F9GTZdB7UmQ1l1t7q1ky37L_0t3RF9J02pHZKA_TExQpkf1lJWAuVIRNwixPx6g-v4emVYveL5tD0rUlax3/s320/IMG_1735.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Different color options for the center heart</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo4oEYDI9SXO7285debVHeBzGsy014pmBfcXIyM3G0Sw8h7koF5QPTqx4icNinwHf0kgV_tHNEjPMlNCLZsFXRt9omGmoOzjSuRKNIH1IYVleQKtmTyBJbAvnpeUZhhfoIV1ZJaMGqcluI/s1600/IMG_1765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo4oEYDI9SXO7285debVHeBzGsy014pmBfcXIyM3G0Sw8h7koF5QPTqx4icNinwHf0kgV_tHNEjPMlNCLZsFXRt9omGmoOzjSuRKNIH1IYVleQKtmTyBJbAvnpeUZhhfoIV1ZJaMGqcluI/s320/IMG_1765.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Final product" shown with first sketch</td></tr>
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I haven't had time yet but I'm going to carve some hearts which have my blog address, email address, etc. on them. I figure I can also use the background stamp for thank you cards (by carving a "Thank you" heart). I really like the single, background + interchangeable center stamp design. I thought I'd try to make another tree trunk with another interchangeable center design then try to match it to the first stamp, so it just looks like a really tall tree.<br />
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Other ideas I have for this:<br />
1. A circle/clock (background) with different faces<br />
2. A bomb (background) with different sayings for the center- like "You have an explosive personality... disorder."<br />
3. A computer screen (background) with multiple read out stamps.<br />
4. A book stamp (background) with alternate book titles/ pictures/ etc <br />
<br />
Basically, anything that fits within something else.<br />
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I'm already working on a robot one where the body (center) of the robot can be switched out. Anyway, I hope you enjoy!zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-49287947088599561292012-08-28T20:24:00.002-07:002012-08-29T05:19:15.650-07:00Just a quick post to sayI'm still alive! You can't get rid of me that easily!!<br />
<br />
Some cool things I've stumbled across recently:<br />
1. Ever heard of <a href="http://io9.com/5886129/the-short-strange-history-of-decimal-time" target="_blank">"decimal time"</a>? <br />
2. <a href="http://missloviecreations.blogspot.com/2012/08/travel-felt-board-tutorial-kicking-off.html" target="_blank">Travel felt bag tutorial </a><br />
3.<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Susanmarie/cottage-tea-cozy-3" target="_blank"> Tea cozy #1 </a>and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/SpatialH/tardis-stuffed-plush" target="_blank">Tea cozy #2</a><br />
4. I <a href="https://www.google.com/intl/en/culturalinstitute/worldwonders/beemster-polder/" target="_blank">found this</a> by accident...<br />
5. And, love this hoop by <a href="http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=210146" target="_blank">Jemimah</a> (sorry <a href="http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=210146" target="_blank">Jemimah</a>, I took without asking... but it is just too awesome.)<br />
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<a href="http://www.craftster.org/pictures/data/500/medium/210146_17Apr11_dragon_for_luckdragon_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://www.craftster.org/pictures/data/500/medium/210146_17Apr11_dragon_for_luckdragon_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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^ OMG, that dragon is off the hoop!!!<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(sorry for the cheesetastic humor) </span></div>
zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-16642539600515809912012-07-22T19:21:00.002-07:002012-07-22T19:21:43.673-07:00Pardon the messI'm working on a new theme and, as luck would have it, my photoshop has decided to stop working. In the interim, here is a preview of a new project I'm working on:<br />
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Now, if only I could get technology to work as well as my speedball carving set...zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-79735349280814664082012-07-22T12:27:00.000-07:002012-07-22T09:50:39.848-07:00Made: Fingerless Gloves<br />
I just finished <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/zilamonster/cafe-au-lait-mitts-2" target="_blank">my second pair</a> of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cafe-au-lait-mitts" target="_blank">Paula McKeever's Cafe au Lait Mitts</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinzb85LZV9RzgM3jBRdMOTs5DLkBypRBprYkVtSVsnAU-3vxn6O9SyOc54d3r_KFYTN05R69qClJlPDLwbFfZOOS-0vDB193-nLmgj9RKFGiwXYKQv1Rcp6yRX87EGddwuMd7Gc8r8T7EF/s1600/IMG_1498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinzb85LZV9RzgM3jBRdMOTs5DLkBypRBprYkVtSVsnAU-3vxn6O9SyOc54d3r_KFYTN05R69qClJlPDLwbFfZOOS-0vDB193-nLmgj9RKFGiwXYKQv1Rcp6yRX87EGddwuMd7Gc8r8T7EF/s320/IMG_1498.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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May I completely recommend this pattern? <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/zilamonster/cafe-au-lait-mitts" target="_blank">My first set knit </a>up very quickly, the pattern is interesting and holds your attention, they're soft and stretchy and lovely with slightly variegated yarn. <br />
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Love this pattern... now, maybe I'll actually make a pair for myself...zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-43274944353631252822012-07-19T15:38:00.003-07:002012-07-19T16:56:13.810-07:00Ninja Cake! Ninjas! Ninja Party!I can't believe it took me so long to write this post. <br />
My son wanted a Ninja party for his 5th birthday. May I just say, finding anything (mass produced) which is ninja related is nearly impossible (which is gloriously appropriate) and i didn't want to do a Lego Ninja party (too expensive, too... commercial). I really liked the idea of generic Ninjas. <br />
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The running joke around our house was:<br />
The husband: "How do you decorate for a ninja party?"<br />
Me: "How?"<br />
The husband: "Leave dead bodies everywhere."<br />
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So... since it was a 5 year-old's birthday party I decided to forgo the dead bodies and, instead, focus on just 2 items:<br />
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<b>The Ninja cake</b>:<br />
Super easy- round cake pan with a Ninja face. I've handmade/decorated all my kid's birthday cakes so far; I'm going to see if I can make it to their 10th birthdays...<br />
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If I were talented, I would have made: <a href="http://martianmom.blogspot.com/2011/06/ninja-cake.html" target="_blank">this cake</a>. <br />
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<b>Ninja peg dolls</b>:<br />
These were fun. Many of the kids played with the ninjas while the food was being put out; they were entertaining enough to hold their attention.<br />
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<b>Misc / Not handmade: </b><br />
The party bags were red Chinese take out containers. Plates, napkins, etc. were red and black (as were the balloons). <br />
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I've been trying to de-stress my parties. Jonah was more than happy with the decorative minimalist approach and everyone had a good time. <br />
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<u>Other items I came up with but didn't have the time to do</u>:<br />
<b>Game- pin the star on the Ninja</b>. Take a silhouetted figure of a ninja, put it on a wall. Blindfold the kid, put a silver paper star in their hand, one side sticky. Who ever gets the star closest to the Ninja's head wins. <br />
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<b>Ninja masks/ party favors</b>: Take strips of black fabric (long enough to tie around the head). Cut out eye-holes. <br />
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<u>Other Ninja items I found but didn't buy, make, or use:</u><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/101379802/ninja-birthday-party-treat-sacks-ninjago?ga_search_query=ninja" target="_blank">Etsy: Ninja party bags</a><br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/69858324/mini-ninja-hand-carved-rubber-stamp?ref=sr_gallery_38&ga_search_query=ninja&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_min=0&ga_max=0&ga_search_type=all" target="_blank">Etsy: Ninja stamps</a><br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ninja" target="_blank">Ravelry: Crochet ninjas</a> (party favors)<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/103676870/origami-ninja-stars-set-of-6-gold-ninja?ref=sr_gallery_9&ga_search_query=ninja+party&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_min=0&ga_max=0&ga_page=2&ga_search_type=all" target="_blank">Etsy: Ninja oragami (stars)</a><br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/93640470/12-edible-ninja-cupcake-toppers-theme?ref=sr_gallery_8&ga_search_query=ninja+cupcake&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_min=0&ga_max=0&ga_search_type=all" target="_blank">Etsy: Ninja cupcake toppers</a><br />
<a href="http://174.121.10.220/%7Eskeeping/index.php?option=com_easyblog&view=entry&id=222&Itemid=57" target="_blank">Stuff from this party </a>zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-618749877135766687.post-72401399853909781162012-07-07T11:46:00.001-07:002012-07-08T10:27:39.587-07:00Gluten Free: Apple and Egg Breakfast Pie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I find that most modern recipes cannot be easily modified to remove the wheat flour/replace it with a gluten free alternative (most baked goods as an example). However, every once in a great while, I come across a really, really old recipe which actually tastes better with a wheat flour replacement.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0xSgscgtsrKa6DJYaDrILsPgswSpWEs2TrBeaNvwWPIVk-3hXzl0PAVsEr8oCdsUuyny03OOy4rWAmw4tweLntoHdm718-lVGujDuz1Mrpmif8hxrRAKAZkkH2fpSr8AFHvTKPun6TKBb/s1600/Untitled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0xSgscgtsrKa6DJYaDrILsPgswSpWEs2TrBeaNvwWPIVk-3hXzl0PAVsEr8oCdsUuyny03OOy4rWAmw4tweLntoHdm718-lVGujDuz1Mrpmif8hxrRAKAZkkH2fpSr8AFHvTKPun6TKBb/s400/Untitled.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In order to make this recipe gluten free I replaced 1/2 cup of flour with 1/4 cup oatmeal and 1/4 cup white rice flour. The finished "pie" has a very mild flavor and texture; it's not overly rich/heavy like a quiche and it's not bready or super sweet like a pancake (as it has no sugar added except what you chose to dust on top; although I suppose you could add sugar to the batter if you wanted to sweeten it up). You could also leave out the oatmeal and replace the wheat flour with rice flour 1:1. <br />
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<u><b>(Gluten Free) Apple and Egg Breakfast Pie</b></u><br />
1/4 tbl butter<br />
1 medium apple (core removed, cut into thin slices) <br />
4 eggs<br />
1/2 cup milk<br />
1/4 cup Gluten Free oatmeal (uncooked)<br />
1/4 cup white rice flour <br />
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1/4 tea nutmeg (optional)<br />
1/2 tea cinnamon (optional)<br />
1/4 tea salt (optional)<br />
1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting) <br />
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1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees<br />
2. Grease a cast iron skillet with the 1/4 tablespoon of butter, make sure to butter the sides. Arrange the apple slices on the bottom of the skillet (in desired pattern). Set aside.<br />
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3. Combine eggs, milk, oatmeal, rice flour, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until batter is well blended (I just use a whisk and hand mix).<br />
4. Place skillet on stove (medium/high heat) for 2 minutes until the bottom of the skillet is just hot. <br />
5. Pour batter over apples and place in the oven; cook for 20-22 minutes.<br />
6. Remove pie, cut, dust with powdered sugar (if desired) and eat!<br />
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<br />zilamonsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07012608967517225181noreply@blogger.com0