New crochet projects...completed and upcoming

Recently I bought some yarn to work out a scarf using one of those beautiful Japanese crochet stitch patterns. It was originally made to give away, but then I fell in love with the amazing texture and beautiful subtle play of color. Plus it looked really good on my hubby...so I guess it saves me a present!

Presenting...The Tulle Fog Scarf. I haven't posted the pattern yet for download, but when I do, it will be on ravelry.

In other news..the Tour de France is about to start up and you know what that means.....time to work up some beautiful cycle worthy crochet! I have two great ideas...a pair of red riding gloves ala Speed Racer and a cute little matching cloche hat ala Trixie! Pics to come as I work out the patterns.

ALSO-->What have you done lately to help your Local Yarn/Fabric/Craft Store? Me? Well, I just showed my LYS some love by buying one of my fave crafting magazines, Interweave Crochet at my LYS instead of the MEGASTORE down the street. I also bought some yarn and vocally shared my appreciation. I guess she wasn't used to that, because I think the gesture really moved her. One good deed for the day, right.

I have so much more news and projects to share...but I still need to sort out some photos. I just got back from a trip to Yosemite National State Park (if you haven't been there, I highly recommend it...awe inspiring nature!) and so I have some pics to share. My mother in law also recently gifted me with an awesome stash of vintage crochet cotton threads and patterns dating back to 1945! Pics will come as I begin to work out the projects. Also, expect more portfolio pics soon.

Portfolio Images--Freshly Updated

As you may or may not know....I design clothes. Well, I guess if you've been following this blog you already know that, as my wedding dress from my very first post was also designed, pattern drafted, and sewn by me.

Since I design primarily for women, and I am a bit underfunded at the moment, I did all of the modeling you see here. Yup, might as well use myself as I am still slender enough and tall enough to do my own modeling. Pretty brave if you ask me...most designers wouldn't dare. And with no make-up!

Well this is all about the clothes anyway, so please take a moment to look them over. I have uploaded a few choice images for you to peruse. Enjoy!

ITEM NAME: Geisha Shirt. DESCRIPTION: Kimono sleeved tunic with self fabric bias-bound seams, blouson back, and tie waist. COLLECTION: FALL 2008. FABRICATION: Japanese Cotton

ITEM NAME: Twist Dress. DESCRIPTION: Draped jumper dress with a twisted bodice. COLLECTION: Summer 2008. FABRICATION: Linen

ITEM NAME: Corset Pant DESCRIPTION: Extreme high rise pant with denim detailing. COLLECTION: Fall 2009. FABRICATION: brushed twill

I will try to post more in the future as I work to get all of my pieces individually photographed.

Crochet for Change--> Crochet and Charity

I have just recently put my first Ravelry pattern up for others to download and its gotten some really great response. I've sent the pattern off to 5 people, 8 people have it in their queues. It's very exciting for me, because you never really know if anyone else will appreciate your work.

That's me in my "V for Victory Hat". I came up with the design for the "Knitters for Obama” group. We are crocheting and knitting a number of hats, scarves, and washcloths to donate to homeless vets in a number of locations. I have made 7 victory hats in varying color combinations to donate for the cause (one example shown by my husband to the left).

In other news, I am still waiting to hear about whether or not I will be in the Crochet Liberation Front 1st official book with this pattern for my Yogini Tote. If it doesn't make it into the book, I will put it on Ravelry for sale. It took a lot of time and a lot of love to create it.
This week I'm pretty busy...trying to finish up my first sock for the sock a month SF club, prepping yarn for the Knitting Olympics (gonna make my first Fair Isle project) and working on some lovely crochet wear designs I've been cooking up in my little brain (a little hint...Go Speed Racer Go! :D). I'll also be going to Yosemite for the first time for an extended weekend.
This is all while trying to find a new job...sigh.