THIS AND THAT

ANNOUNCEMENT

2010-02-03T15:47:00.000-08:00

I will no longer be posting to this blog. I currently have 2 blogs going and it is getting difficult to keep up with both of them, along with everything else that is going on. Going forward, all of my projects, patterns and everything else will be posted to:

http://arminas-aminals.blogspot.com/

I want to thank all of my loyal followers and the wonderful comments I received. As always, you can contact me via e-mail. So bookmark Arminas-Aminals and we will stay in touch!

Thanks

Cherise Crocheted Doll

2010-02-01T08:32:00.000-08:00

I think in one of my posts I mentioned I had a few WIP's, well she was one of them. I finally finished her. Her name is Cherise, she is a crocheted 14" doll with thread jointed arms and legs. I really like the thread jointing - gives her arms and legs mobility and the ability to pose. I will be posting the pattern in my Etsy and Artfire stores and will also be available in Ravelry in the next couple of days. I tried several new techniques with this doll, and it all pulled together really well.

I also designed and made some new jewelry too. I will post those pics later.

This Ellie the Tiny Elephant
She measures 4" tall
Crocheted with fingering
weight yarn and B hook

It's The New Year

2010-01-12T14:08:00.000-08:00

Happy 2010 - We are nearing the middle of January, hope everyone had a good new year. Well, here we go - projects, projects, and more projects. I have 3 WIP'S going along with some new jewelry I made. A new year treat from me to me ... :-) I knit a a beautiful bronze scarf, pic coming, and these pieces match perfectly. And to make the set all that more enticing, my sister knit a pair of matching fingerless gloves (pic coming soon). Now that I have my scarf and gloves and jewelry, I need a special place to go! Here are my new jewelry pieces:

3-strand bronze crystal bracelet

Abalone Fan & Freshwater
Cultured Pearl Necklace

Bronze Freshwater Cultured Pearl
Necklace and Bracelet Set

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T18:33:00.001-08:00

Another year is ticking away and 2010 is right around the corner. This last year had some major personal challenges for me, but I survived and made it. Thank goodness for my crafts - my crafts kept me happy and sane.

A special thank you to everyone who sent me all the wonderful and positive comments. Wishing everyone a very healthy and happy new year. And, of course, strive for a stellar "crafty" year.

Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-24T08:39:00.001-08:00

I wanted to take this opportunity and wish everyone a Merry Christmas. It seems each year the holidays creep up on us faster and faster, and this year was no exception. May this holiday season bring friends, family and loved ones closer together.

Happy Holidays everyone!

ARMINAS CRAN-RASPBERRY JAM

2009-12-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

Here is a delicious alternative to cranberries. I made a cran-raspberry jam (for gifts) and it came out delicious! Naturally I had to taste it to make sure it was good enough to give as gifts, hehehe. Was fabulous on English muffin, toast and cinnamon bread. I wanted to share this recipe with everyone. Here is what you need:

2 - 12 oz pkgs fresh cranberries, washed
2 - 12 oz pkgs frozen raspberries, defrosted
5 cups granulated sugar
1 cup orange juice
1 pkg fruit pectin
5 - pint size mason jars

Place all of the ingredients in a large heavy stockpot. Stir to combine. Cook over high heat until mixture starts to boil. Continue cooking until the cranberries start to pop, another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Remove from heat. Using a hand/immersion blender, puree the the fruits. If you do not have a hand blender, you can use a potato masher, blender or food processor. You may need to puree in two batches in the blender or food processor.

CAUTION: If you use a blender, place a kitchen towel over the lid and down tightly. When you blend hot items in a blender, it will cause the lid to pop off and you will have hot liquid everywhere.

Return to heat and simmer for an additional 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The jam will thicken and set once it is cooled.

Remove from heat and carefully ladle into prepared jars. Place the lid - do not screw on too tight. Turn the jars upside down and allow to cool completely.

Refrigerate after the jars have completely cooled off. Keep refrigerated.

Makes 5 - pint size jars of jam

You can substitute any kind of frozen fruit for the raspberries. I dont know about blueberries, it may discolor the jam.

Enjoy!

New Lil Kitty

2009-12-08T13:33:00.001-08:00

Here is my new lil kitty - Witty Bitty Baby Kitty - she measures 4" tall. I crocheted her with Red Heart Symphony. This yarn is fuzzy, so I fluffed her up a bit with a toothbrush. I am finishing the pattern.

Happy Crocheting!

Chelsea The Cat

2009-12-03T18:48:00.000-08:00

Ok I am on a roll here - I finished Chelsea the Cat. She measures 6-1/2" tall and crocheted with Lion Brand Pound of Love. I am on a mission to finish all of my WIP's before the end of the year. That way I can have more WIP's - lol. Pattern is available at:

http://apdesigns.etsy.com

http://craftsbyap.artfire.com

Also, on Ravelry.com

Happy Crocheting!

Too Cute For Words!!

2009-12-02T12:57:00.000-08:00

OMG!!! How cute is this? There is nothing cuter than a kitten, and when the kitten is as cute as this, well, what can I say..... I love this little video - wanted to share it. Too adorable for words.

New Projects

2009-12-02T08:59:00.000-08:00

I finally got some of my projects finished - here are a few of them:

Lilly The Lovable Lamb
Crocheted in Lion Brand
Cupcake - She is approx
7" tall and 5-1/2" long

Mama & Baby Piggy
Crocheted in Bernat
Satin - Mama is approx
6" tall and 5" long and
Baby is 4" tall and 4" long

Tiny Teddy
Thread Jointed Tiny Bear
Crocheted in fingering
weight yarn - Approx
3" sitting and 4" standing

Belle The Yorkie
Crocheted in Lion
Brand Jiffy - She
is approx 10" tall
and 9" long

Lilly Lamb and Mama & Baby Piggy patterns are available at my Etsy and Artfire stores. I will get the others done soon.

http://apdesigns.etsy.com

http://craftsbyap.artfire.com

Happy Crocheting!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2009-11-25T12:50:00.001-08:00

It seems as soon as Halloween comes and goes, the end of the year is a blink away. Here we are, a day before Thanksgiving... I honestly dont know where this year went. It seems each year goes by faster and faster.

With that said, I wanted to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. Festive eating (and indulging, lol). This is the time to reflect and give thanks, for our health and our loved ones.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Mr & Mrs Christmas Mouse

2009-11-22T11:44:00.000-08:00

A new addition to my holiday toys - Mr & Mrs Christmas Mouse, enjoying their sled. Each one measures approximately 4-1/2" tall, not including the hat or the bow. I used Lion Brand Pound of Love (white) and Bernat Satin (Crimson) with a size E crochet hook. You can download the free pattern here:

FREE DOWNLOAD:

Enjoy and Happy Crocheting!

Third Prize Winner!

2009-11-18T18:29:00.001-08:00

Yarndancer, a fellow Raveler, entered her kitty witch in a local soft toy contest and won 3rd Prize! How cool is that! Great job Yarndancer!

I love to see your completed projects - post them in my Flickr group or send them to me via email and I will post them here!

Congrats Yarndancer!

Easy Tassel

2009-11-17T16:08:00.000-08:00

Here is an easy way to make a tassel using embroidery floss. Unfortunately I cant take credit for this idea - I was watching a craft show on my local PBS channel and they showed how to make this. I thought it was a clever idea - and with all the beautiful colors of embroidery floss, you can make an array of tassels!

Remove wrapper from floss and separate.

Cut in half

Take one full strand from bunch
and tie in center, secure with a
knot. Make one end slightly
longer.

Take the longer strand and
wrap around top 2 times -
thread the strand through
needle and bring through
top. Secure with a knot.

And you have a tassel!

Enjoy!

New Additions

2009-11-17T12:07:00.000-08:00

I dont know where the time goes.... here we are, middle of November. Wowie... Xmas is almost here!! Well, I have been working on some of my WIP's and finished some. Here are a few of them.

This is Charlie and Camille
They measure approx
7" tall and 6" long.
Charlie is crocheted with
Red Heart Soft and
Camille is crocheted with
Bernat Satin.

This is Babette The Poodle -
She measures approx
12" tall and 11" long.
She is crocheted with
Bernat Soft Boucle.

This is Bebe The Baby Poodle -
She measures approx
8-1/2" tall and 6" long.
She is crocheted with
Lion Brand Cupcake yarn.

Patterns are available at:

http://apdesigns.etsy.com

http://craftsbyap.artfire.com

EGBERT THE ELEPHANT

2009-10-30T08:56:00.000-07:00

Egbert is here! He is a jolly elephant in amigurumi crochet with Caron Simply Soft. He measures approximately 7-1/2" tall and 7" long. Pattern is avaibale at:

http://apdesigns.etsy.com

http://craftsbyap.artfire.com

Enjoy - Happy Crocheting!

Talking Dogs

2009-10-25T09:54:00.000-07:00

Now I have to admit, when I saw this, I must have replayed it over and over. It was amazing to hear these dogs actually speaking, or at least mimicking words. Regardless, it was amazing. I had to share this clip with all of you.

My ultimate favorite is the very last dog. You have to check this out. Enjoy!

Pugsly and Tiny Pugsly

2009-10-20T20:40:00.000-07:00

Here are two of my newest pups - Pugsly and Tiny Pugsly. Pugsly measures approxiately 7" tall and 6" long, tip to tip, and Tiny Pugsly measures approxiately 4-1/2" tall and 4" long.

Patterns for these two pups are available at:

http://APDesigns.etsy.com

http://CraftsByAP.artfire.com

Also available on Ravelry!

Happy Crocheting!

Tiny Ami Kitty In Jammies

2009-10-16T10:50:00.000-07:00

Here is my newest addition to my kitty series, Tiny Ami Kitty in Jammies. She measures approx 3-1/2" tip to tip. Fingering weight yarn was used for this little one with a size 0/1.75mm steel crochet hook. I hope you enjoy this pattern. Enjoy!

You download pattern here: FREE DOWNLOAD

Happy Crocheting!

Free Pattern Downloads

2009-09-23T22:18:00.000-07:00

Good news, no more cutting and pasting! YAY!!! All of my free patterns are now available as a download. Just click on the pattern you want and you can now easily download the PDF pattern. I tested a couple and it worked fine, but in case you have trouble downloading, send me an email and I will check it out. Make sure you let me know which pattern you are having a problem with. I hope this makes it easier. Going forward, all my free patterns will be listed as a download - I will not be posting the pattern instructions. I had so many requests for the PDF I feel this will be easier for us all.

I am working on the PDF downloads for my tutorials. As soon as I get those done, I will post those as well.

Let me know how this works.

My free pattern downloads are available here:
http://arminas-aminals.blogspot.com/

Happy Crocheting!

Pumpkin Pincushion Idea

2009-09-18T08:23:00.000-07:00

Here is a great suggestion for using the Pumpkin Pincushion. This was sent to me by a fellow blogger. She is planning on making several of these pumpkins and using them as name place holders for her Thanksgiving dinner. She plans on writing the names of her guests on card stock and pinning them to the little pumpkins. Might even be a great give away too for each guest. With the holidays right around the corner, great ideas like these are really appreciated. Thank you for letting me share this idea with my fellow bloggers.

Daisy Pincushion

2009-09-17T17:24:00.000-07:00

Here is a variation to the Crocheted Pumpkin Pincushion. I call this a Daisy Pincushion. It is the same pattern as the Pumpkin Pincushion, with a few changes. First, I omitted the leaves and used a decorative button instead. I used Lion Brand Pound of Love in Turquoise, same hook size and contrasting black yarn for sectioning the daisy. You can make this with many variations. I thought I would share this with you. Enjoy!

Crocheted Pumpkin Pincushion

2009-09-16T16:40:00.000-07:00

Here is a quick and easy Halloween project - a crocheted pumpkin pincushion. Enjoy!

The pattern is available HERE:

Happy Crocheting!

Pork Dumplings

2009-08-30T19:02:00.000-07:00

I dont know about anyone else, I love Asian food - especially potstickers or dumplings. Well, I finally tried making some and they came out really good! Here is my recipe if you want to try it - if you make some, let me know what you think. I made mine with ground Pork, you can use chicken as well if you dont eat Pork.

1 12 oz pkg Won Ton skins
(There are 48 won ton skins in a pkg - this recipe will make 48 dumplings. These dumplings freeze well).

For Filling:
1 lb ground Pork
4 scallions, chopped fine
3 tbsp soy sauce
(I didnt add any salt - soy sauce is salted enough)
1 tsp garlic powder
Fresh ground pepper

For the dipping sauce, I used Panda Express bottled Mandarin sauce.

Mix ground pork with all the ingredients.
Place 1 small tsp filling in center of won ton skin - moisten edges with water.
Fold in half to form triangle and pinch seam on top, moisten to seal.
Place dumplings on a large cookie sheet lined with wax paper.
Continue until all of the won ton skins are used.
(I froze mine on the cookie sheet and packed in serving size portions in a zip lock bag after dumplings were completely frozen.)

To Cook:
Add 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a heated skillet. Place dumplings filling side down and cook for about 2 minutes, or until the bottom is browned. Pour 1/4 cup cool water in skillet and immediately cover and allow dumplings to steam. Cover quickly - skillet will sizzle. Steam for 1 minute - remove cover and lay dumplings flat on one side and steam for another 2 minutes. Remove to serving plate and serve with dipping sauce.

NOTE: When cooking the dumplings, dont crowd them in the skillet. I cooked 12 in an 8" skillet, with plenty of room to move the dumplings around.

Enjoy!

Interesting Link

2009-08-28T23:00:00.000-07:00

Every now and then I do a search for something and get side tracked into something else. I came across this site which really fascinated me. It transforms your picture into something you wouldnt believe. You need a head shot to get it done right. Just follow the directions and have fun with it. Here are a couple of my pics -

Here is the link:

http://morph.cs.st-andrews.ac.uk//Transformer/index.html

This is my picture transformed by artist Sandro Boticelli

This is my pic transformed by artist Alphonse Mucha

Try your pic and see what you get. I thought the transformation was interesting.

New Yarn

2009-08-28T22:04:00.000-07:00

I came across this new yarn by Lion Brand (Vanna's Glamour) - it is a fine yarn with sparkling specks throughout the yarn.. so I picked up 2 skeins (no self control, lol) and decided to knit a scarf. I used a 10-1/2" straight needle and used a seed stitch. I wanted the scarf to have a slight airy look yet not too airy and I also didnt want a tight stitch. I have to say the pictures dont do this yarn any justice. It is beautiful. My color choice was copper with bronze shiny specks. Will be really pretty for the holidays. Here we are, end of August, the holidays just a blink away. So I decided to start some gifts ahead of time. It looks really nice. What do you think?

It has been sooooo hot here the last few days there is no energy to do anything let alone knit.

The scarf slowly coming along.

I will post a picture when I am done.

2010 Crochet A Day Calendar

2009-08-17T20:22:00.000-07:00

I am published! Three of my ami patterns are published in the 2010 Crochet A Day Calendar -
How cool is that? I just received my complimentary copy of the calendar today. These are the three patterns selected:

Monty Bear, January 25

Tiny Chihuahua, September 27

Petit Pincushion, October 8

The calendar is available at most craft/yarn stores and can be ordered through Amazon.com... here is the link:

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=crochet+A+Day+Calendar&x=0&y=0

There are alot of beautiful patterns in the calendar (including mine, hehehe) and well worth the price.

Chocolate Twinkies

2009-08-13T10:55:00.000-07:00

Well, here it is. I had an overwhelming demand for chocolate Twinkies from my family. I didnt make a chocolate spongecake - I cheated this round. I used a packaged chocolate cake mix and made buttercream frosting. I did notice though the tops "peaked" a little more than the spongecake did, but it's all good, lol. Who cares about the peaks when you have homemade Twinkies. Yummers!!! Now to pass them out and see what kind of feedback I will get. This will be the perfect ending for dinner for tonight - I am making Greek Pastitsio, which I love, along with a Greek salad with Kalamata olives, Feta cheese, tomatoes and cukes - instead of lettuce I am using Baby Arugula with a light olive oil dressing. I am getting hungry, lol.

Twinkies baked not filled

Homemade Twinkies

2009-08-12T10:44:00.000-07:00

I was doing a search online for something and got sidetracked into something else - during my internet travels, I stumbled upon this cake/muffin pan - it was a Twinkie pan! OMG!! I love Twinkies and what could be better than homemade Twinkies? Not much, lol. So, I ordered the pan. My family has nicknamed me "gadget queen" because there isnt a gadget out there that I dont have - I had to live up to my title. With that said, I made some Twinkies and was it ever delicious. I used a Genois (spongecake) recipe and filled with sweetened whipped cream. I even took it one step further and wrapped each one individually with plastic wrap lol. Made for easier chilling and passing out to my family. Well here it is - my Homemade Twinkies. I have to say the pan was heavy duty and I was quite impressed. It came with a plastic decorating set - I just used my disposable cake decorating bag and a writing tip with a large opening to fill each Twinkie. Now I have to try chocolate genois with sweetened chocolate whipped cream..... yummmmm!!!!

Baked Twinkies- not filled yet

Twinkies filled and wrapped
Yummy!!!

Update - Leilani Hawaiian Doll

2009-08-04T20:38:00.000-07:00

The pattern for Leilani is available at:

http://apdesigns.etsy.com

http://craftsbyap.artfire.com

Happy Crocheting!

Leilani Hawaiian Doll

2009-07-26T00:40:00.000-07:00

Here is Leilani, my crocheted Hawaiian doll with her cute hula skirt and sandals. She stands 14" tall. Leilani means Heavenly Flower. I will have pattern information soon. I just finished her and wanted to share her with everyone.

Amigurumi Hoola Kitty

2009-07-15T12:50:00.000-07:00

Here she is, my newest addition to my Kitty series - my Ami Hoola Kitty saying Aloha to you! She measures 4" tall.

The pattern is avaibale - HERE

I hope you enjoy this pattern as much as I did creating it. As always, if you want the PDF for this pattern, send me an email and I will be more than happy to send it to you.

Enjoy and Happy Crocheting!!

Lazy Dazy and Little Sunshine Amigurumi

2009-07-12T21:47:00.000-07:00

Here is Lazy Dazy and her friend Little Sunshine. What a cute pair. Lazy Dazy never goes anywhere without her friend Little Sunshine. Each one measures 3-1/2" tall.
Pattern is available at:

http://apdesigns.etsy.com
http://craftsbyap.artfire.com

Crocheted Ambassador Teddy Bear

2009-07-08T09:23:00.000-07:00

This is Ambassador Bear - the personalized message "bearer". Bear is thread jointed and can be posed. Pattern is available at:

http://apdesigns.etsy.com
http://craftsbyap.artfire.com

Large Amigurumi Kuromi Doll

2009-07-07T21:59:00.000-07:00

I had several requests for a large version of my Kuromi doll and here she is. This is the BAD adorable kitty (if you can use BAD and adorable in the same sentence). She stands 7" tall from bottom of base to top of her head, not including the ears.

As always, if you want this pattern in PDF, send me an email and I will be more than happy to email it to you.

The Large Amigurumi Kuromi Doll pattern is avaibale HERE

I hope you enjoy this pattern.

Happy Crocheting!

Amigurumi Little Twin Star

2009-06-30T13:06:00.000-07:00

Well I dont post for weeks and now, 2 in one day! I think I am on a roll. I just posted the pattern for my Little Twin Star pattern.

Pattern is avaibale HERE.

Enjoy and Happy Crocheting!

Amigurumi Independence Day Kitty

2009-06-30T10:38:00.000-07:00

Well here we are, end of June. The months are just flying by. I wanted to get this posted earlier, but better late than never. This is my newest addition to my kitty series - my Independence Day Kitty, all decked out and ready for the 4t of July and fireworks. I hope you enjoy this pattern.

Happy Crocheting!

The pattern is avaibale HERE.

Where Did The Time Go???

2009-06-08T23:35:00.001-07:00

It doesnt surprise me that time is just flying by. Here we are midpoint of 2009 - it feels like yesterday I posted a Happy New Year wish. I have been so busy with personal issues, I havent had the time or motivation or energy to crochet anything. Family issues and personal. I am spread so thin these days I am totally exhausted to even pick up the crochet hook. I hope to have some new things real soon, as soon as things calm down a bit for me here at home.

A Special Day

2009-05-09T12:14:00.000-07:00

Sunday May 10 is Mother's Day - I want to take a minute and wish every "MOM" a special happy day, filled with joy and surrounded by loved ones and family. I selected a special poem for this day and wanted to share it with everyone....

What is a mother

A heart that can hear every unspoken need,

Wisdom to know when to quietly lead,

Hands that reach out, always helping and sharing–

A mother is caring!

Eyes that reflect every joy that you find,

Arms to encircle, but never to bind,

A talent for making the most out of living–

A mother is giving!

A voice that can soothe or inspire or delight,

A smile that keeps shining when things don't go right,

An angel God sends us from Heaven above–

A mother is nothing but caring, giving and love.

-Author Unknown

Happy Mother's Day!

Personal Indulgence

2009-04-28T09:20:00.000-07:00

This was a treat "from me to me" - considering the mayhem that was happening here the last month, I felt I needed some sort of personal gratification. What way can I gratify myself, I thought...

1. Yarn, I dont need to add to my stash, I have plenty.

2. Hooks and needles, the same, I dont need to add to my collection.

3. Hmmmm... a new laptop? Yes, in the very near future.

4. Books, nope, I have enough to read at least one lifetime over.

BUT......

I did treat myself to a new Singer Heav Duty sewing machine (HD110) and a new craft/kitchen scale, and I am so glad I did! I have been cleaning and kinda organizing my craft room, so I really havent sewn on my new machine yet, but it sure does look beautiful on my table! And my scale, well what can i say. Now when I have those small amounts of yarn and have no clue what the weight is, I can now weigh my yarn and I know! I can say this much, I had not realized how much "stuff" (or should I say junk) accumulates and so quickly! So these new treats served a dual purpose, filling my need for something to treat myself with and cleaning my craft room.

I ordered the scale from Knit Picks and only $24.95. I priced some similar scales and some were double that price. And my sewing machine was from HSN. Ok enough of my babbling - here are the pics.....

It is digital and weighs beautifully!

Isnt it beautiful?

I can hardly wait

to sew something

on this....

Armina's Aminals Flickr Group

2009-04-25T09:36:00.000-07:00

As many of you already know, I love to see and share your beautiful handiwork utilizing my patterns and posting them on my blog.

I just created a Flickr group for anyone who is interested in joining that have completed projects with my patterns. This is a great place and a wonderful forum to share your beautiful work for everyone to see, enjoy and admire. As soon as there are enough photos uploaded, I will create a collage and post it on my blog where everyone can see your beautiful handiwork. See you at the Amnials Flickr Group!

http://www.flickr.com/groups/arminas-aminals/

Equal Time

2009-04-22T19:17:00.000-07:00

Well since I posted a pic of Ziggy I feel its only fair to post a pic of my Hollywood - he is so spoiled now since the loss of my other two kitties. But I think he likes it lol. He is a Maine Coon, like a little puppy. I call him my watch cat - he knows someone is at the door even before the door bell rings. The only thing he doesnt do is bark, lol. I gave him a treat of some cat nip the other day, and OMG!! He was in a trance, nothing distracted him from his cat nip. Too funy!

Hollywood Chilling

Ziggy

2009-04-22T09:51:00.001-07:00

This is Ziggy, my daughter's mini Doxie. He is the most adorable little thing. He is a little over a year old. Isnt he adorable? He loves to cuddle and lick you to death lol. My crochet doxie was created in his honor :-)

Needle Felted Ziggy

Side View

Crocheted Amigurumi Baby Dachshund

2009-04-12T21:31:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been a crazy hectic three weeks. Too many things going on right now, but I finally picked up my crochet hook and finished my little Doxie. This little cutie measures 4-1/2" long and 4" tall, crocheted with Bernat Satin in Sable.

Pattern is available at:

http://apdesigns,etsy.com/
http://craftsbyap.artfire.com/

Hopefully I will get a few other things posted soon.

Happy Crocheting!

I Am Back Again... I Think

2009-04-09T09:06:00.000-07:00

I Am Back... Again
Well, I think I am back again. So much has happened in the past several weeks. I havent posted anything in a while. Alot of personal problems I had to tend to (and still taking care of), so my postings may be a bit random and not as regular as I would like. But I will try to get back into the swing of things again.

Chocolate Calculator

2009-03-31T22:08:00.000-07:00

Here is something fun - nothing crocheted or felted.... Got this in my email and it works. Give it a try and DONT CHEAT by scrolling down. Just take it one step at a time.... so here it is:

YOUR AGE BY CHOCOLATE MATH

1. First, pick the number of times a week that you would like to have chocolate (more than once but fewer than 10)

2. Multiply this number by 2 (just to be bold)

3. Add 5

4. Multiply it by 50 -- I'll wait while you get the calculator

5. If you have already had your birthday this year add 1759 ....
If you haven't, add 1758.

6. Now subtract the four digit year that you were born.

You should have a three digit number
The first digit of this was your original number
(i.e., how many times you want to have chocolate each week).
The next two numbers are

YOUR AGE! (Oh YES, it is!!!!!)

THIS IS THE ONLY YEAR (2009) IT WILL EVER WORK, SO SPREAD IT AROUND WHILE IT LASTS.
Amazing Chocolate Calculator! Pretty cool huh?

New Patterns

2009-03-25T16:43:00.001-07:00

I finally finished some new patterns - took me a while, but they are done.

My patterns are available at:

http://apdesigns.etsy.com/

http://craftsbyap.artfire.com/

This is Megan - she is 8" tall, a soft crocheted doll.

This is Michael - Megan's little brother. He is 8" tall.

This is Baby Apple Jack - fresh from the apple orchards! He is 5" tall.

Happy Crocheting!!

Kuromi Doll

2009-03-25T16:37:00.000-07:00

My Kuromi Doll pattern is posted - you can get it here:

http://arminas-aminals.blogspot.com/2009/03/kuromi-doll.html

I know I promised this earlier, but I had some personal issue to tend to. I hope you enjoy the pattern.

Happy Crpcheting!

New Goodies

2009-03-19T21:35:00.000-07:00

Here we are almost end of March - where does the time go? It seems there just isnt enough time in the day.

I finished a few new items - will get the patterns up in the next couple of days. Sanrio has new character called Kuromi - absolutely adorable! Needless to say my daughter wanted one, so here is Kuromi.

Both measure 5" tall.

Ami Bunny with
Mini Easter Basket

Mini Easter Basket

Yummy Strawberries

2009-03-12T11:44:00.001-07:00

I am a little under the weather and havent had a chance to post. Last week was my daughters 30th birthday - we celebrated the whole week, which was fun. I made these chocolate covered strawberries and chocolate cupcakes with whipped cream and topped with fresh blackberries. To quote Homer Simpson... "MMMMMMMM Chocolate"...... The cupcakes were devoured before I could get a picture, but I was able to capture some of the strawberries! I will have to make those cupcakes again, they were small bite-sized pieces and so light and delicious (I cheated - I used a box cake mix for the cupcakes). All in all, it was a good week.

Flowered

2009-03-07T23:05:00.000-08:00

Another treat - an original painting from my daughter, titled Flowered. Isnt it beautiful? She is going to spoil me! She is so talented, writes poetry, an artist and even writes her own music (she plays base guitar). She celebrated her 30th birthday on March 2nd - actually, we celebrated her birthday all week, lol. Went out for dinner, showered her with gifts (lots of art supplies), and more goodies. Have I mentioned how special she is? (I think I have.... hehehe).

TUTORIAL - THREAD JOINTING

2009-03-07T12:55:00.000-08:00

I had several requests on how to do Thread Jointing. I use thread jointing alot on my amigurumi. The end result is a flexible toy - able to stand or sit and movable arms.

You can get the tutorial here:

http://arminas-aminals.blogspot.com/2009/03/tutorial-thread-jointing.html

As always, if you want the PDF for this tutorial, send me an email and I will be more than happy to send it to you.

Happy Crocheting!

Sackboy Look-Alike Doll

2009-03-02T13:54:00.000-08:00

Ok here it is - I had a lot of requests to post the pattern for my cocheted Sackboy doll - I hesitated due to copyright issues, but I suppose a freebie is ok. You can get the pattern here:

http://arminas-aminals.blogspot.com/2009/03/sackboy-lookalike.html

If you would like the PDF emailed to you, drop me a note and I will send it.

Enjoy and Happy Crocheting!

How Cute

2009-03-01T08:39:00.000-08:00

May sent me a pic of the Ami Alien she finished - she incorporated antenna on the little guy. And a little scarf! How cute is that? Great job May!

St Patty Kitty

2009-02-27T18:23:00.000-08:00

Happy St Patty's Day! Here is my newest addition to my holiday kitty series - St Patty Kitty measures 5".

You can get the pattern here:

http://arminas-aminals.blogspot.com/2009/02/st-patty-kitty.html

Side View

Crocheted Rag Doll

2009-02-27T08:41:00.001-08:00

Here is Andy, my crocheted rag doll - he is 15" tall. He matches with the Crocheted Rag Doll Anne.

Patterns are available at:

http://apdesigns.etsy.com/

http://craftsbyap.artfire.com/

Here they are toegther.

Miffy Bunny Crocheted Doll

2009-02-27T08:37:00.000-08:00

Here is Miffy, a crocheted bunny doll, measures 5".

Pattern is available at:

http://arminas-aminals.blogspot.com/2009/02/miffy-bunny-crocheted-doll.html

Happy Crocheting!

Baby Tiffany Crocheted Doll

2009-02-24T12:39:00.000-08:00

Well here she is - Baby Tiffany, my new little baby doll. She measures 5" - crocheted with Lion brand Pound of Love. Love her little pacifier. I saw these pacifiers at CRSCrafts - had to have them.

Pattern is available at:

http://craftsbyap.artfire.com/

http://apdesigns.etsy.com/

Hello Kitty

2009-02-24T10:41:00.000-08:00

Check it out - Ragan, a fellow Raveler, did my HK with the cutest little mouth and a removable dress. How cute is that? You can see more of her work at:

http://raganemma.blogspot.com/

Just A Note

2009-02-21T12:29:00.000-08:00

If ever you have a special request or a question, please contact me via email and I will personally respond. Sometimes it is hard to respond to inquiries or requests here on the blog. I like the one-on-one better.

craftsbyap.gmail.com

=^.^=

Amigurumi HK Fairy Kitty

2009-02-17T08:55:00.000-08:00

Here is the latest addition to my Kitty series - An Ami HK Fairy Kitty. She stands about 4-1/2" tall. She is guaranteed to make your wishes come true. Make a wish!

You can get the pattern here:

http://arminas-aminals.blogspot.com/2009/02/amigurumi-hk-fairy-kitty.html

Enjoy and Happy Crocheting!

Crocheted Pooh Bear

2009-02-15T09:32:00.000-08:00

I had a request to make this for my daughters friend - here is my Crocheted Pooh Bear. He measures 7" tall.

You can get the pattern here:

http://arminas-aminals.blogspot.com/2009/02/crocheted-pooh-bear.html

Enjoy and Happy Crocheting!!

Large Amigurumi Hello Kitty Doll

2009-02-14T20:26:00.000-08:00

Alot of you asked me for a pattern for a larger version of my Hello Kitty Doll. Well, here she is - And she measures 8" tall.

You can get the pattern here:

http://arminas-aminals.blogspot.com/2009/02/large-hello-kitty-doll.html

Enjoy and Happy Crocheting!

New Treasury

2009-02-13T13:27:00.000-08:00

My Crocheted Poodle is included in another Etsy Treasury - Thank you SassySashadoxie for including me in your beautiful treasury.

You can see it here:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=39509

Tutorial - Felting Needles

2009-02-12T09:03:00.000-08:00

USING THE FELTING NEEDLE

I recently started needle felting with wool roving and found it to be extremely rewarding creating miniature dogs, bears and other animals. I also found the felting needle quite useful in my amigurumi. I use the felting needle to incorporate felt pieces to my amigurumi. For example, if you want a little red felt tongue for an amigurumi dog, you can use the felting needle to weave that felt piece into your amigurumi. Here’s how:

1. Cut the felt piece the exact size you need.
2. Position felt piece.
3. Use felting needle to adhere by using fast poking strokes.

The end result is clean, no stitch or glue marks.

Here are some examples:

Felt Mouse Ears:
1. Cut the felt ears exact size.
2. Position ears on mouse.
3. With felting needle, use quick strokes to poke the felt into the crocheted mouse.
The ears are attached and has a clean finish.

Doggie Tongue:
1. Cut the felt tongue exact size.
2. Position tongue on dog just below the nose.
3. With felting needle, use quick strokes to poke the felt into the crocheted dog.
The tongue is attached and has a clean finish.

Bear Foot Pads:
1. Cut two pieces of felt to fit the bottom of the foot.
2. Position felt piece on bottom of foot,
3. With felting needle, use quick strokes to poke the felt into the bottom of foot.
The felt is attached to the bottom of the bear’s foot and has a clean finish.

Position the felt piece on the bottom of the foot. With the felting needle, poke the felt into the bottom of the foot around the edges only. Use caution – needle is very, very sharp.

Continue “poking” the needle through the felt into the foot along the edges.
Follow same procedure for the other foot.

Felted pads complete.

Rag Doll Nose – The felt piece here was cut in a triangle and “felted” onto the head utilizing the felting needle. The finish is clean with no stitch marks or glue residue.

Try incorporating other uses for this remarkable little tool. You can purchase this tool anywhere they sell needle felting supplies. I purchased mine from:

http://www.crscrafts.com/lobby.asp.

Do a search under “needle felting” and you can see the felting needles and other accessories. They also sell protective plastic tubes to store your needles in. It is a small investment to give your amigurumi that special finish.

Felting Needle
CAUTION: The felting needle is a super sharp barbed needle. Use with caution.

Felting Needle Tubes - Protective cases for your felting needles

Happy Crocheting (And Crafting)!!

I have this tutorial on PDF - if you would like, contact me and I will be more than happy to email you these instructions in PDF.

COPYRIGHT © CRAFTS BY AP
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 2008

Thank You

2009-02-09T12:09:00.000-08:00

My Hello Kitty pattern is posted in Swedish on Ida's Amigurumi blog - Thank you =^.^=

How cool to see your pattern translated in Swedish!

http://my.opera.com/IdasKreativa/blog/g

New Patterns

2009-02-09T08:04:00.000-08:00

My patterns for the Blossom Doll, Fruits with Bowl and Lovable Love Bear are available at:

http://craftsbyap.artfire.com

http://apdesigns.etsy.com

Thank you for all your wonderful comments. Happy crocheting!

Fruits of My Labor

2009-02-08T17:57:00.001-08:00

My latest, crocheted fruits. All of the fruits were crocheted with Caron Simply Soft and E hook - I decided to crochet a little bowl to place the fruits. I am working on the pattern. In case you cant tell, fruits consists of grape clusters, apple, pear, banana, strawberry and orange.

Fruits arranged in bowl

ArtFire

2009-02-08T08:31:00.001-08:00

I wanted to pass this along to everyone - there is a new site for selling handmade called ArtFire. It looks really cool. You can sign up and sell your goods for free (up to 10 items) or you can pay the promotion sign up fee of $7.00 - the $7.00 is a promo for the first 5000 customers who sign up. With this you are allowed unlimited listings and no additional charges. If you are familiar with Etsy, you are charged for each listing plus additional fees. This has none! I love Etsy and use it. But ArtFire will be giving Etsy some competition in the future. And, after the 5,000 accounts are set up, the monthly fee will be $20.00. I signed up and joined, check it out.

http://artfire.com

DNA SCATTERPODS

2009-02-06T17:28:00.000-08:00

I am floating on a cloud - my daughter made this painting for me titled DNA Scatterpods. I am so very proud of her - she is such a talented young lady.... an aspiring artist, a poet, and a musician. She is working on another set for me, I can hardly wait! She does incredible abstract art. In fact, she is my inspiration for alot of my crocheted items. I love her to death. Arent daughters wonderful? =^.^=

HK Ladybug

2009-02-06T06:09:00.000-08:00

My newest addition to the kitty series - My HK Ladybug. Just in time for Valentines Day!

You can get the pattern here: PATTERN

Enjoy and Happy Crocheting!

My New Award

2009-02-04T10:26:00.000-08:00

Thank you Ghost for this wonderful award. I truly appreciate it.

http://ghostbuildingalife.blogspot.com/

Now I have to select 5 blogs and pass this award down. If I leave you a note saying that I am giving you this award then you can come back here and save this award to your own hard drive. Then post it to your blog with a link back to my blog. After that you can create a post with your selections of five bloggers and that is all there is to it.

It was a difficult decision for me to make in selecting 5 blogs. There are so many wonderful and talented people out there. Now it is your turn to select 5 blogs of your choice and link back to my blog. It wont be easy I know. Good Luck!

http://a-nano-knittomy.blogspot.com/

http://mysticds.blogspot.com/

http://cindycrochets.blogspot.com/

http://crochetchickss.blogspot.com/

http://insanelycrafty.blogspot.com/

http://deb-thestitchwitch.blogspot.com/

OOOPS!!! I chose 6..... I had an extremely difficult time trying to make my decision. I suppose 6 wont hurt.

My Melody Look-Alike Doll

2009-02-03T10:09:00.000-08:00

Here she is, My Melody - She stands 6" tall from tip to tip and crocheted with Lion Brank Pound of Love.

Pattern is available here: PATTERN

I hope you enjoy this pattern. Happy Crocheting!

As Promised

2009-02-02T15:25:00.000-08:00

I promised some new goodies, and here they are. I am trying to get some of my WIP's finished and off my "To Do" list. I will post all of them here, and come back with the patterns and pattern information. I will start with my Blossom Doll. The one I did for a Xmas gift was done so quickly, I didnt write the pattern down, so I had to try and re-work it. Here is Blossom.

I wanted to post my FO's - will post patterns and pattern information. Now that all my WIP's are done, I can start with a clean slate again... and that's a good thing. =^.^=

Blosson Doll

13" Tall

Pooh Bear

7" Tall

Little Twin Star

Each 5" Tall

My Melody

5" Tall

Love Bear

5" Sitting
6-1/2" Standing

Love Bear is Thread Jointed

Needle Felted Chihuahua, 2" long and 1-1/2" tall

Needle Felted Baby Dragon

MIA - Continued

2009-01-30T19:31:00.000-08:00

Well I think I am getting myself together. I have to admit, the last 2 weeks was an incredible 2 weeks - so surreal. I suffered a heart attack. You think these things happen to others, never you. But it happened. It made me look hard at myself and my life. Now comes the best part - major life changes. Diet, exercise, among other things. And meds, lots of them, whew. The paramedics were here in a flash - I take my hat off to them. They did their magic and whisked me to emergency. Spent 2 days in ICU, and the rest is history. Now on the brighter side, if you ever want to get six of the best looking guys to your place, call 911, lol. I cant say enough about my family. Everyone was there in a heartbeat, by my side, and still very supportive. My get up and go got up and went, but I read this is common in an incident like this. The meds make me very tired.

Now, getting back to myself and my stuff - I should have some goodies to post in the next couple of days.

MIA

2009-01-24T21:11:00.000-08:00

I am back, I think. Sorry I havent posted in a while, I had some health issues. I am on the road to recovery. We take so much for granted - until a crisis hits you. I am in the process of completing some of the WIP's and some new patterns during my recoop period. A few of you requested a pattern for the Blossom Doll, which I am finalizing and having it tested. So keep your eye out for that.

Thats it for now... hopefully I wont be MIA again!

Adrianna Crocheted Collar

2009-01-12T09:36:00.000-08:00

My crocheted collar is finished. I started this before Christmas but put it on the back burner so I can get my Xmas stuff done. The Adrianna Crocheted Collar is crocheted with Red Heart Designer Sport yarn in Brick. I really like how this yarn works up and it feels very comfortable to wear. Not too bulky or too thin, just the right amount of warmth around your neck for those chilly days. (If the yarn looks familiar, it is leftover from the Hexagon Afghan I did for my daughter). This project took a little less than a skein to complete and I used a pearlized button for the closure. It worked out great because I used one of the crocheted loops as a button hole (no need to make a button hole, lol). Anyway, here it is. I am working on the pattern.

Now to finish the three other project staring at me.

Sackboy Lookalike Doll

2009-01-07T11:09:00.000-08:00

Ok here I am again, on a mission for my daughter. She asked me to make a Sackboy doll - What is a Sackboy doll I asked. Well she showed me the picture and after doing some research, found out it is the latest rage. A Playstation game called Little Big Planet. I noticed the original was a knit version, although I knit, I prefer to crochet. So I started to make one. Here is my version of a Crocheted Sackboy Doll.

Sackboy Side

Sackboy Sitting

How Cool!

2009-01-05T16:01:00.000-08:00

I just found out that my Ami Kitty Witch was mentioned in Simply Knitting UK. How cool is that? I was a little excited, lol. It was for October (Halloween), a little late, it still brought a smile to my face... =^.^=

Thank you Simply Knitting for mentioning my Kitty Witch.

Here is the link:

http://www.simplyknitting.co.uk/?catname=/FREE%20Patterns%21

Copy and paste the link to a new browser - Scroll down to "Halloween Pattern Round Up" and I am there!

Happy New Year 2009!

2009-01-01T10:19:00.000-08:00

It is officially 2009! Happy New Year! Wishing everyone a very Healthy, Happy and hopefully a Prosperous New Year! Let's keep on crafting!!!

Top 100 Craft Sites

2008-12-30T18:45:00.000-08:00

List your blog in the new Top 100 Craft Sites. Draw traffic to your blog or website. All kinds of crafts are acceptable, knitting, crochet, fiber arts, jewelry, plushies, anything that is crafty.

Go here to register:

http://craftsites.gotop100.com/

I registered :-)

Only requirement is link the banner on your blog or website.

Needle Felted Pets

2008-12-29T11:15:00.000-08:00

Now that the rush of Xmas is over, I can take a breath and focus on some projects. I finished a few needle felted pets, some of which I gave for Xmas as gifts. I am soooo addicted to needle felting. I needed another craft addiction like I needed a hole in the head, but oh well. It's a good addiction, lol.

Felted Bear

Felted Yorkie

Yorkie Side

Felted Bichon

Bichon Side

Felted Beagle

Beagle Side

Etsy Treasury

2008-12-28T18:08:00.000-08:00

How cool! My Chihuahua pattern is in the Etsy Treasury! Thank you Winterdreams for including me... :-)

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=37554

Christmas 2008

2008-12-28T09:29:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year 2009 ….

Christmas 2008 has come and gone – we spend weeks and weeks (if not months) in preparation for this wonderful holiday. Although I think the real meaning of Christmas is lost in retail commercialism, this year I swore I would not get wrapped up in that and give everything handmade, which I did. And after spending all of that time preparing for this holiday and hours in wrapping the gifts, I was watching as the gifts were passed out, and ripped to shreds in minutes, lol. But that is the nature of this holiday.

Now another year races to an end, and the new year is getting ready to embark on us all. With all the economic turbulence 2008 had, hopefully 2009 will be a better year economically. I try not get too political on my blog, but with everything that has happened in 2008, it makes me wonder where things will go and how far. Hopefully this new administration will make some changes for the good. It’s good to be optimistic.

With 2008 coming to an end and 2009 a blink away, there are a few things I am thankful for….
1 First and foremost, I am thankful for my health. I have some health issues, but nothing I can’t handle or deal with (It isn’t easy being 39, hehehe).
2. I am thankful for my daughter. She is my inspiration and my life. She is a beautiful young woman, inside and out, with a heart of gold. There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for her.
3. I am thankful for my family. We are close and will always remain close. We are there to help each other in a pinch, no questions asked. Isn’t that what families are for?
4. I joined Ravelry…. What an incredible place. So many talented people and a great resource for information. I met a lot of creative and talented people here. If you have not checked out Ravelry yet, please do so, and sign up to join. If you are a Raveler, you know what I mean. You will not regret it, trust me. But be warned – you will spend A LOT of time there, lol.
5. Some sad moments with the loss of my two kitties so close together, but that is the cycle of life. As responsible pet owners, we have to do what is best for our pets, regardless of how hard it is. I console myself with the fact they gave me many years of unconditional love (Midnite 16 years and Baby 14 years), which only a loving pet can give.

I can probably go on and on… So, with that said, 2009 will be a stellar craft year – let’s keep our creative juices flowing and grab 2009 by the horns and make it a successful and creative year.

Wishing everyone a Healthy, Happy, Prosperous and “Crafty” New Year!

Lend Me A Kitten

2008-12-18T12:19:00.000-08:00

Feeling the grief for the loss of my Kitty, a fellow Raveler posted this poem - it was so touching I wanted to share it....

Lend Me A Kitten

I will lend to you for a while
a kitten, God said.
For you to love while she lives,
and mourn after she’s dead.

Maybe for twelve or fourteen years,
or maybe just two or three.
But will you, ‘till I call her back,
take care of her for me?

She’ll bring her charms to gladden you
and should her stay be brief,
you’ll always have her memories
as solace for your grief.

I cannot promise she will stay,
since all from earth return.
But there are lessons you can give
I want this kitten to learn.

I’ve looked the whole world over
in search of teachers true,
And from the folk that crowds life’s land
I have chosen you.

Now will you give her all your love,
nor think the labor vain?
Nor hate me when I come to take
my kitten home again?

And my heart replied,
“My Lord, Thy Will Be Done.”
For all the joys this kitten brings,
the risk of grief I’ll run.

We’ll shelter her with tenderness,
we’ll love her while we may.
And for the happiness that we’ve known,
forever grateful stay.

But should you call her back
much sooner than we planned,
We’ll brave the bitter grief that comes,
and try to understand.

If by our love we’ve managed
your wishes to achieve,
in memory of his sweet sweet love,
please help us while we grieve.

And when our cherished kitten
departs this world of strife,
Please send yet another needing soul
for us to love all his life.

Author Unknown

This is in memory of my Midnite and Baby. Will miss you.

Rest In Peace Baby 1994 - 2008

2008-12-16T09:07:00.000-08:00

Monday, December 15, 2008, I had to put my kitty Baby to rest. She had a long bout with diabetes and it finally took its toll on her. I was just adjusting to the loss of Midnite, now this. Her frail little body could not hold up anymore. She was 15 years old and one of my rescue kitties. She had to be one of the most mellow kitties I have ever seen, never ever took her claws to anyone, never scratched anything, just a purrrfect little kitty, she was my “Baby”. Rest in peace my little Baby. You gave me 14 years of joy and unconditional love. You are in cat heaven with Midnite now and no longer suffering. I will always love you and will miss you.

Holiday Special!

2008-12-14T09:05:00.000-08:00

As a way of saying "Thank You" to all of my loyal customers, I am offering a special for the holidays in my Etsy store. Buy 3 Amigurumi patterns, get the 4th one free. Hurry! Offer ends 12/25/08. For more information, please visit my Etsy store at:

http://apdesigns.etsy.com

Wishing everyone Happy Holidays and a Healthy, Happy and Prosperous New Year!!

Needle Felted Goodies

2008-12-04T12:13:00.000-08:00

My love for miniatures never cease, and since I started needle felting, this feeds my addiction. A few needle felted projects finished, for Xmas gifts. Although I am a cat person, I find dogs so fascinating, crocheted or needle felted. There are so many breeds and the detals when crocheted or felted turn out beautiful.

The Bulldog is for my niece - she has a Bulldog named Lucy. Of course I can never leave out bears - love bears of all kinds.

Bulldog Front

Terrier Front

Terrier Side

Panda Front

Panda Side

Hollywood Posing

2008-11-30T10:20:00.000-08:00

I just had to share this pic - this is Hollywood. His green eyes are so vibrant in this pic, full of expression. You can almost get lost in his eyes. This has to be one of my favorite pics of him.

And of course, equal time for Baby, with her tongue hanging out, lol. She was grooming herself and a motorcycle zipped by, and this was the end result. Was definitely a Kodak moment.

Christmas Gifts

2008-11-30T10:05:00.000-08:00

I am on a roll this Christmas - unlike my past Christmas' - I think I will be done early enough to rest a little. I finished 2 afghans for gifts, both came out really nice. I did another Hexagon Afghan (it works up so quick and is so easy you can do it with your eyes closed) and a square afghan. Both were done with Caron One Pound, the Hex is in Cream and the Square is in Taupe. Everyone is getting hand made goodies this year, and I can finally say I am happy I am actually getting them finished early. (Yay for me!) The Hex Afghan is pictured above.

Square Afghan

I also have a pair of dolls I crocheted for my newphews little girl, and for his 2 boys, I will make stuffed toys (dont have those done yet).

These are the dolls for my nephews little girl. She is such a gem! Love her to death.

This is Blossom and Andy.

Thanksgiving Feast

2008-11-29T10:54:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. One down, one more to go. Do I sound "Bah Humbug"? We had a split Thanksgiving this year, half my family at another get-together and the other half here. It is getting harder and harder, since my nieces and nephews all have in-laws and their get-togethers, but ours went well. We had a wonderful feast, more food than we can eat, as usual, and 2 days to recover from the preparation. I think I am half human again. The "Old Gray Mare Just Aint What She Used To Be"..... I dont seem to have that stamina I had (ah-hmmm) when I was a "few" years younger. I find now when I am preparing for a gathering, I have to pace myself. It isnt easy being 39 (hehehe). But I do have to admit, it was all good. We had a wonderful time and my daughter was here. What more could I ask for? Life is good.....

PS..... In all the preparation and confusion, I didnt get any pics of the food. Hopefully for Xmas I will remember to take my camera and share pics of all the goodies.

Hexagon Blanket - Done!

2008-11-23T11:18:00.000-08:00

Yay! I finished my Hexagon Blanket for my daughter. It came out quite large, I had a difficult time setting it up for a pic. I did this with Red Heart Designer Sport in Brick, took 10 skeins of yarn to complete. I started the hexagon pattern in a single crochet, which came out as the center base, then gave it a little dimension by adding a double crochet, then HDC, then finished it with a shell border. I used a G hook to start, then graduated to an H hook when I started the HDC. I really like how it came out, big enough to wrap yourself up and cuddle up for some warmth. It was a quick and easy project. Now I have to finish the one I started in Homespun (that one is for me =^.^= ) Now to pack it up and get it ready for my daughter. I am sure she will love it.

I used the pattern from a fellow Raveler (labpugglechi - her link is below). Thank you for sharing this pattern.

Another view

Knit Ruffled Keyhole Scarf

2008-11-19T12:51:00.000-08:00

I feel so good, I am finishing all of my WIP's. Here is a quick knit project, a Ruffled Keyhole Scarf. Inspired from a Berroco design, this scarf knits up quickly, an easy knit project, and is very comfortable to wear. I hope you enjoy this pattern. The pattern is avaibale here:

http://arminas-aminals.blogspot.com/2008/11/knit-ruffled-keyhole-scarf.html

Happy Knitting!

Amigurumi Christmas Kitty

2008-11-19T10:18:00.000-08:00

Well it is almost that time of year again. It seems as soon as Halloween comes and goes, Christmas is here before we know it! And it seems to go faster each year for me.

Here is my newest addition to my Amigurumi Kitty series - a Christmas Kitty. She stands 6" tall. I wanted to post this to give those of you who are interested ample time to get some done for Xmas gifts or stocking stuffers.

The pattern is available here:

http://arminas-aminals.blogspot.com/2008/11/christmas-kitty.html

I hope you enjoy this pattern. Happy crocheting!

New Jewelry

2008-11-18T23:53:00.000-08:00

I get so wrapped up in my knitting or crochet, I forget about my love for creating jewelry. Well, just to break the monotony, I made a few new pieces of jewelry. And it reminds me how much I love creating and wearing them. I did the Sea Green Chalcedony Set for a customer, a special order, but the other 2 are for me... hehehe. The silver flower I picked up at an estate sale, a vintage piece. I was holding on to it for long time, not knowing what I can create with it. It is so intricately made. I added a cultured pearl in the center. Gives it that "pop" that I was looking for.

The Sea Green Calcedony Briolette set is pictured on top.

Smoky Quartz
Faceted Glass

Vintage Silver Rose

Vintage Silver Close Up

Ok, back to my crochet, lol.

WIP - Crocheted Hexagon Blanket

2008-11-17T17:10:00.000-08:00

Well, here I am, over extending myself again. 3 WIP's, not good, lol. I dont like to start something and then start something again before finishing it. But I saw this and thought it would be a beautiful blanket. So I started one (yes for my daughter, lol). Although it called for worsted weight, I am using a sport weight yarn, Red Heart Designer Sport, color Brick, which is crocheting just beautifully. I got the pattern from a fellow Ravelry crocheter, and you can find the pattern here:

http://labpugglechifreepatterns.blogspot.com/2008/08/hexagon-baby-blanket.html

It is super easy, works up fast. Her pattern is for a baby blanket - I decided to make mine a little larger, sized more for an adult. So, as I was crocheting, I changed the pattern just a tad. Of course I will post my finished project when I am done. I also started one for me, in Lion Brand Homespun, which is coming out great.

WIP - Crocheted Blocks Afghan

2008-11-10T15:39:00.000-08:00

Well, my daughter has me on another mission - making a block style afghan for her. She wanted warm neutral colors, so I chose Caron One Pound Taupe and Espresso for the crocheted blocks (pictured above), and for joining the blocks and trim, Bernat Super Value in a Soft Rust. She cant handle wool, so I had to go with an acrylic yarn. I currently have 12 squares completed and need another 60 to finish (OYYY!!!). Although I have her Xmas gift, I hope I can get it finished by Xmas for an additional treat. It will be a nice big afghan, great to wrap yourself up and snuggle with.

I will post pattern information when I am done.

Caron One Pound

Espresso and

Taupe

Bernat Super Value
Soft Rust

Tiny Unicorn

2008-11-06T19:00:00.000-08:00

My daughter, as a child, was in love with and collected My Little Pony. She had all of them (of course I wont admit to loving them too). As she got older and her interests changed, she gave them away to a friend of mine who had a small child (which she now regrets doing, lol). So she asked me if I can make a My Little Pony look-a-like for her. I made one into a unicorn (she loves unicorns) and left one as a pony. Both are made with fingering yarn, so they are small. The larger one is about 2-1/2" and the little one is almost 2". I plan on giving them to her this weekend and surprise her... =^.^=

Pattern is available at:

http://apdesigns.etsy.com

Baby Poodle

2008-11-06T18:51:00.000-08:00

I had this little doggie on the backburner for quite a while, meaning I bought the yarn and intended on making this, but just never got around to it. I am happy to say I finally finished her today. Yay!!! I wanted to try the Lion Brand Cupcake yarn - it looks all curly, and I thought it would give a "curly" look after it was crocheted, like a real Poodle's coat. But it didnt give the effect I really wanted. In fact it doesnt have a curly look after it was crocheted. Bernat Soft Boucle has a wonderful finish after it is crocheted, but that yarn is too bulky, and I wanted a smaller dog. Anyway, I have to look for a smaller or lighter boucle type yarn so I can try the Baby Poodle again. She came out cute - she measures 6" long and 6" tall.

Pattern is available at:

http://apdesigns.etsy.com

Her side view

Farewell Midnite

2008-10-28T13:41:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was one of the hardest days for me, in a long, long time. I had to say farewell to my beautiful Midnite. He shared my space with me for 16 years, he was the prince of his domain. He had his other two buddies, Hollywood and Baby, but he was definitely the prince. Midnite came to me as a wee little kitten, he was so tiny he fit in the palm of my hand. He lived well, had a good life, and gave me joy. But age got him and he deteriorated so rapidly, breaks my heart. But as a pet owner, we have to consider the quality of life, and his was gone. He had 16 wonderful years. Rest in peace my darling Midnite, you are in cat heaven now. I will always miss you.