Mug Rugs - crochet over jute

Using jute and yarn, these mug rugs have been created and are fun and easy, quick to make. Wool yarn would be best. So far I have done stripes and hearts with a tapestry technique. To find out more about this technique, visit this blog   http://www.leisurearts.com/enews/archive/05_2010/YarnLink/InTheKnow.html .

Crochet Over Jute - a landscape rug design

This rug pattern was discovered in a recent book  by Lena Maikon, Unexpected Crochet for the Home. She called it Field of Farms. I have adapted it somewhat, but the idea comes across. Finding good jute for rugs took some doing. Blocking the rug will help it lie flatter. The pattern has been put onto a spreadsheet so that other patterns can be created for smaller rugs. It was heavy on my lap when working on it, so smaller rugs are planned. Following the pattern, I used Lionbrand Woolease, but would not recommend this in the future, too soft. Rug wool is the best way to go. 

 To find out more about this technique, visit this blog   http://www.leisurearts.com/enews/archive/05_2010/YarnLink/InTheKnow.html

Looking Ahead...

I've been making a few of these felted wool brooches every week and am enjoying choosing the color combinations of dyed wool fleece and embroidery floss.

There is just something about the traditional heart shape that I love! First, I felted the hearts by using a cookie cutter as a guide for the shape. Then using pearled DMC embroidery floss, I embellished the hearts and sewed the two together. Lastly, I sewed a metal clasp pin to the back.

A nice Valentine's Day gift, but really nice for all year round as well!

Evergreen Garland

I love evergreen garlands and went out into the woods yesterday while the evergreen trees were clear of snow and brought in some boughs to decorate above the windows in the living room. Instead of bringing in a tree, I decided to hang our ornaments on the garland along with some lights.

Wishing you all a Joyful Christmas!

Acorn Garland

Acorns with crocheted caps became a garland for a stairway window. The caps were filled with felted wool of many colors and became a decoration for the others in the group.Note snow outdoors which arrived Dec 7 th and it looks like it is going to stay.

Craft Group Day

When the wind caused the power to go out, the school closed. We enjoyed having Jess join our craft group today. Here are the results of our needle felting efforts: a tropical hummingbird (Jess), Santas (Shirley and Kyla) and a final garland (Carolyn).

Felted Snowflakes

Still having fun needle felting, and this time I decided to add some embroidery floss embellishments. With wool and floss colors, there are many color combinations to choose from!

Christmas Fairs

I've been working all week on sea glass and beach stone jewelry for the local Holiday Arts Market at the Artists Guild.  My back and fingers are sore, but everything is ready to go to the Guild tomorrow!

Garlands for the Season

This garland one is made of apples, bay leaves, cinnamon sticks and rose hips. The stars were felted separately. It's all on wreath wire. The idea came from PBS, a program with P. Allen Smith.Try nuts, pasta, fruits and veggies that will dry out. Have fun!

Knitted Christmas Balls

I found some great patterns for knitted Christmas Tree ornaments.  They knit up quickly and look great.  A very good way to use up small bits of extra homespun yarn.