The life of a crochet designer

Hat & Pattern Giveaway

2012-01-25T11:50:00.001+13:00

Let's do a fun giveaway!

To enter:

Simply comment below telling me...

1. Your e-mail address (so I can notify you if you win)

2. If you want the actual hat (fits approx. 3-10 years), or the pattern (includes sizes newborn to adult) so you can make it yourself!

I will choose 2 winners - one for the hat and one for the free pattern.

Winners will be announced and notified via email by Jan-31.

Good luck to all!

2012 Crochet Calendar Giveaway!

2011-12-28T09:37:00.000+13:00

I've agreed to do a giveaway of the 2012 Holland Designs Crochet Calendar. You can enter to win by leaving a comment on this blog: http://deliacreates.blogspot.com/2011/12/holland-designs-crochet-giveaway.html

Delia will chose a winner of all those who comment. See her post for details. Good luck! :)

Cakewalk Slippers

2011-12-20T11:14:00.000+13:00

I've been taking a few custom design requests lately and these new slippers are the result. They are very EASY, which is why I have named them the Cakewalk Slippers! Pattern available in Ladies and Kids versions. The kids pattern includes all sizes - baby, toddler and youth.

Modern Loafers

2011-12-12T15:05:00.001+13:00

Patterns available at www.hollanddesigns.etsy.com

My modern loafers patterns have been so popular, that I have now added youth and ladies sizes. Now the whole family can sport these stylish slippers around the house. Patterns available in baby, toddler, youth, ladies and mens sizes.

December Sale

2011-12-02T10:52:00.001+13:00

The 2012 Holland Designs Crochet Calendar is now available at 40% off!

SAVE 40%! Now only $14.99!

There are also other discounted bulk pattern listings available. Visit my Etsy shop to see all the new patterns and special deals!

Giveaway # 2

2011-11-21T16:55:00.001+13:00

Congrats to Diane Faucher of Ontario, Canada - winner of the Simple A-Line Dress from giveaway #1. Now it's time for another giveaway!

Same rules as last time:

To enter, simply help promote the 2012 calendar by sharing the following link:

http://www.holland-designs.com/product/calendar/

on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and any other craft or social sites. Then leave a comment on this post telling us how you promoted the calendar.

A random winner will be selected from all who enter and announced on Nov 27th - one week from today.

This week's giveaway item was handmade by designer using soft wool and cashmere blend yarn in a lovely shade of purple. A blue cotton layered flower and ribbon accents the brim.


Ribbon Cloche - Fits little girl approx. 3-10 years.

November Designs

2011-11-17T11:13:00.001+13:00

Now that I'm finally into my 2nd trimester with baby # 3, I've been able to get a little more crocheting and designing done!
Here is a look at a couple new designs which I've completed in the past few weeks - both lovely accessories for the colder months ahead. All patterns are available at www.hollanddesigns.etsy.com or from my Ravelry store.

Diamond Slouch Beanie - Custom design inspired by a knit red diamond cable hat worn by singer, Taylor Swift. Pattern includes sizes 4-10 years, Pre-teen/Teen & Adult Ladies.

Knit-Look Ribbed Cowl - Pattern includes sizes baby to adult.

2012 Crochet Calendar - Sample Giveaway #1

2011-11-06T20:05:00.000+13:00

Over the next few weeks, we will be giving away several designer samples from the 2012 Holland Designs Crochet Calendar!

To enter, simply help promote the 2012 calendar by sharing the following link:

http://www.holland-designs.com/product/calendar/

on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and any other craft or social sites. Then leave a comment on this post telling us how you promoted the calendar.

A random winner will be selected from all who enter and announced on Nov 13th - one week from today. Be sure to check back and enter to win other sample items in the weeks ahead!

This week's giveaway item:

Simple A-Line Dress - Size 2T

Handmade by designer using 100% organic cotton

Mock Cable-Knit Crochet

2011-09-06T20:52:00.000+12:00

Recently I've been creating some new knit-look designs that use a simple combination of basic crochet stitches. These patterns involve no post stitches and of course, no knitting! This unique crochet cable technique creates a lightweight fabric and uses less yarn than traditional cable patterns.

Mock Cable-Knit Cardigan

Pixie Earflap Hat

2011-08-15T20:07:00.001+12:00

New Zealand is currently experiencing an Antarctic blast!

Good thing I've just made the girls some new hats!

Holland tells me she does not like hers though, as blue is not her favourite colour, and she has ordered one in a shade of pink, exactly like Madison's.

The pattern is now available in my Etsy shop.

2012 Holland Designs Crochet Calendar

2011-08-03T15:40:00.004+12:00

We are excited to announce the release of our very first printed publication! The 2012 Holland Designs Crochet Calendar contains a total of 36 pages. It is a full-color, 12-month wall calendar and includes 9 pages of pattern instructions at the back so you may make the designs featured in each month's photo.

The calendar sells on Amazon, on Etsy and on our brand new website, www.holland-designs.com.

Patterns include:

1. Hair Topper Headband (baby to adult)
2. Raspberry Quilt (baby blanket)
3. Empire Cardigan (0-12 years)
4. Fairytale Capelet (0-4 years)
5. Ribbon Cloche (0-10 years)
6. Simple A-Line Dress (0-12 years)
7. Embellishment Motifs
8. Flowered Headwrap (Baby to Adult)
9. Edwardian Cloche (Baby to Adult)
10. Knit-Look Lace Skirt (2-12 years)
11. Knit-Look Lace Scarf
12. Sweetheart Mary Janes (Baby/Toddler)

Ruffle Flower Hat

2011-07-17T23:35:00.000+12:00

Here is a look at a new and fashionable design, the Ruffle Flower Hat, which Madison is wearing this season. :) The navy blue is really striking with her dark blue eyes. She gets quite a few compliments when she wears it out and about. The pattern is now available at Holland Designs and features a large ruffled flower and ruffled brim. Includes sizes 0-3 mos, up to size 3-10 years.

Three Years on Etsy!

2011-07-06T23:50:00.001+12:00

It's hard to believe, but Holland Designs has been in business now for 3 whole years! To celebrate, I am having a pattern sale! Thanks to all the fabulous customers I've had in the past 3 years!

Ruffle Flower Slippers

2011-07-06T19:54:00.000+12:00

New patterns from Holland Designs this week:
Ladies Ruffle Flower Slippers and coordinating Ruffle Flower Baby Shoes. I've had so many new design ideas in my head lately (result of a brainstorm session while sitting at Starbucks! Must be all the caffeine!) I'm so glad to get a few completed on my design "to-do" list. :)

At the Beach

2011-06-28T19:46:00.000+12:00

Today we visited our local New Zealand beach and I took some photos of Holland in her new sunhat. It was beautiful, but a little chilly as is typical for this time of year (i.e. winter!) Holland will enjoy wearing it to the beach when we take our next Australian holiday. Click here to get the pattern.

Ruffle Flower Headband

2011-06-20T18:41:00.000+12:00

The pictures say it all...this little headband pattern is so sweet! Will make a great photo prop for little ones. Pattern makes any size - baby to adult. (Thanks to my good friend, Anita, for the lovely dress which Madison is wearing!)
Visit Holland Designs on Etsy

Holland Designs Newsletter

2011-05-17T10:47:00.000+12:00

All New: Sign up for my newsletter to be among the very 1st to know about my latest designs and publications. I will be debuting some exciting things in the next few months! Those who subscribe to the newsletter will also be notified of special discounts!
Click here to sign up!

Mary Jane Loafers

2011-05-14T20:55:00.000+12:00

MARY JANE LOAFERS

On Friday morning it felt to me like a "baby-shoe-designing" sort of day...and so it was. Here is the result, modeled by 9 month old, Madison. Pattern includes sizes 0-6 mos & 6-12 mos and is available at Holland Designs.

Bow Pretty Hat

2011-05-01T11:02:00.000+12:00

Designed this pretty hat as a gift for one of Holland's little friends. We hope she will like it! :)

Pattern has been added to Holland Designs on Etsy and also on Ravelry.

Hats Hats Hats

2011-04-12T23:35:00.000+12:00

When designing a new hat pattern, sometimes the hardest part is figuring out what to call it. Usually it's a "hat" or "beanie" or a "cloche." Recently someone used a term I hadn't heard in a while when she said she liked my new "chapeau" design. :)

As always, patterns are available at Holland Designs or in my Ravelry store.

English Rose Hat

Very Girly Brimmed Hat

Rosebud Beanie

Modern Mens Loafers

2011-04-01T12:31:00.001+13:00

Check out this new pattern for mens crocheted loafers. I love them and so does my husband. I tell him how lucky he is...not everyone gets to wear slippers "handmade by designer." :)

Youth Crochet Basics

2011-03-25T11:32:00.000+13:00

New youth size slipper pattern now available:

The sample pair were made after a kiwi mum asked me to make slippers for her little girl. The pattern is also available in baby/toddler & adult sizes.

2011 Flamies - Crochet Awards

2011-03-16T15:21:00.000+13:00

It's time to vote for your favorite crochet designers, books, companies, etc. Check out this link to view all the categories and nominees. You can find me listed as a nominee in the category: Best Designer for Children.

Modern Baby Loafers

2011-02-23T15:55:00.000+13:00

Modern Baby Loafers

I've added a new baby loafer pattern to my shop today. These are the low-top version of my modern baby boots. The sample pair are a gift for a baby boy who will make his debut in the next few weeks.

Miabella

2011-02-21T11:12:00.000+13:00

I am very excited about the gorgeous new listing photos I added to my shop yesterday, courtesy of Mindy of Miabella Portraits, South Jordan, Utah. I really like the style of her photography and love the images she's done for me. Thanks so much, Mindy!
Photos are of the Arabella Cloche, Slouchy Picot Hat & Toddler Boho Ballet Flats.

Autumn Cardigan

2011-02-18T15:50:00.001+13:00

NEW DESIGN - NOW AVAILABLE HERE...

Where's Patchy Patch?

2011-02-17T17:20:00.001+13:00

We found him! Here he is!

Visit him at my Crochetbury Shop!

Easy Knit-Look Technique

2011-02-17T11:58:00.000+13:00

Let's Pretend Baby Blanket

Last week I developed this new, super easy, knit-look technique! It uses only hdc throughout. No post stitches and no slip stitches are used. I am excited to design additional patterns using this new technique!

Flower Stack Headband

2011-02-16T12:14:00.000+13:00

Just added this fun and adorable pattern to my Etsy shop. I made it using some gorgeous yarn called comfy worsted available at Knitpicks.

The Latest News

2011-02-10T16:34:00.000+13:00

This week I designed my 1st "newsy" style brimmed hat. I'm very happy with the result. The brim is done using post stitches which creates a great look and structure. Hope you like it as much as I do!
~ Lisa

Frigid Fashion

2011-01-25T16:53:00.001+13:00

Modern Baby Boots

2011-01-21T20:18:00.000+13:00

I have been busy lately! I have a teething 5 month old and an almost 3-year old with lots of questions. :)
I am working on a few special crochet projects at the moment, but am still trying to find some spare time to design patterns for my shop.
Here is one I made this afternoon while the kids were napping. Hope you like them!

Modern Baby Boots

Arabella Cloche

2011-01-13T23:53:00.000+13:00

Newest hat pattern for the Holland Designs shop, modeled by Miss Holland herself. :) Check out my little sweetie's adorable, all-natural ringlets at the back!

Arabella Cloche

Ode to Winter

2010-12-15T17:42:00.004+13:00

Fabulous 4-Hour Cloche - Pre-Teen to Adult

Here is a lovely hat for winter which I designed recently. It is hot and humid here, but I hear many in the USA and Canada are enjoying blizzards, so I thought I'd post something winter-related. :) Stay warm!!

Amigurumi Butterfly

2010-12-09T17:04:00.000+13:00

Let me introduce you to a new little friend...
Holland's new toy was the result of a custom design request to make a butterfly based on the print on some bedding being used in a nursery. He turned out pretty cute and Holland just loves him. :)

Amigurumi Butterfly

My First Handbag

2010-11-15T21:56:00.000+13:00

Knit-Look Crocheted Handbag

Here is my very 1st handbag design! That being said, I don't know if there will be a 2nd handbag design, but there may be, as I am quite pleased with how this one turned out! Bag measures 18" wide at the bottom, 10" wide at the top and 10.25" tall.

Summer's Coming

2010-11-09T17:20:00.000+13:00

Triangle Pocket Tank Top

...to the southern hemisphere anyhow. :) Here is a look at a new tank top I designed for Holland. The pattern will be available in a few days and will include sizes up to 4 years.

My Two Girls

2010-11-02T17:20:00.000+13:00

Pleated Halter Top

Lace Confection Dress & Hat

Here are a couple photos of some new and recent designs, modeled by Miss Holland (age 2.5) and Miss Madison (almost 3 months).

Now Available from Annie's Attic

2010-10-20T10:36:00.004+13:00

I was excited to see my latest published designs up on Annie's Attic today! Check it out. :)

$5.95 - PDF DOWNLOAD

View on Annie's Attic

Back to Business

2010-10-07T14:34:00.000+13:00

Holland at Beachcomber Island, Nadi, Fiji

We arrived home from Fiji on Monday afternoon after a very lovely 2 weeks away. What a wonderful time we had and what a great place to visit! I definitely recommend it to anyone who hasn't been there...assuming you like hot weather, sun, blue water and sandy beaches. :)
Holland enjoyed lots of swimming and playing at the beach. And Madison learned to smile while in Fiji! :) We had such a lovely time, we are happily anticipating our next weekend getaway.

Beachcomber Island, Nadi, Fiji

Tivua Island, Nadi, Fiji

Fiji Time

2010-09-20T17:08:00.000+12:00

The Holland Designs and Crochetbury Etsy shops are closing for 2 weeks while we're on holiday in Fiji. For anyone who needs a pattern in my absence, you can access easy instant pattern downloads via my Ravelry store.

Shortie Sweater - Baby to Adult

I just finished this little sweater for Holland to wear on our trip. I plan to have the pattern written up and available after we return. It should includes sizes newborn to adult.
See you when we get back! :)

New Crochet Creations

2010-09-16T11:53:00.002+12:00

Don't ask how I've been able to get all this done with a newborn to take care of! Our little Madison is now 5 weeks old and has inspired a few new designs in her short crochet-modelling career. Here's a look at some of the newest patterns available from Holland Designs.

New Model

2010-08-20T11:47:00.000+12:00

Newborn Ribbed Diaper Cover

Lace Confection Hat

For anyone who didn't already know...we now have a new model at Holland Designs! Madison Isabel was born August 9. She is such an easy baby, mommy wonders at her amazing luck! :)
Here are a few of my new or recent designs, modeled by Miss Madison...

Horray! 7,000 Sales!

2010-08-05T19:49:00.001+12:00

Holland Designs reached a new milestone today! Thanks to all my customers for making the past 2 years on Etsy so successful and enjoyable!

In other news...
2 additional patterns will soon be added to e-PatternsCentral:


Child's Cabled Neck Warmer

Baby Morepork Owl

Pajama Bear

2010-07-23T10:05:00.000+12:00

I made this new teddy bear for Holland yesterday, based on the bear on her favorite pair of pajamas. As Holland says, "He's SO special." :)

Knit-Look Amigurumi

2010-07-05T16:06:00.001+12:00

Here is a completely new twist on amigurumi design: "knit-look" crocheted amigurumi. I hope to design other animals, but here are my very first creations: my knit-look crocheted elephant & bunny. The patterns are currently available in my crochetbury shop and on Ravelry.

Slouchy Picot Hat

2010-06-24T16:14:00.000+12:00

Here is a new hat - a custom design made by request for a fellow Etsian. Pattern includes sizes newborn to adult. Features openwork lacy pattern, slouchy-style fit and picot edging on the brim.

Holland enjoyed modeling her new hat...she has way too many hats, as you may imagine. :)

New Knit-Look Designs

2010-06-22T15:18:00.000+12:00

Here are a couple new knit-look designs I've been working on...

Knit-Look Crocheted Mary Janes - Pattern includes sizes 0-12 mos
Toddler and Ladies sizes coming soon...

Knit-Look Pullover
- Pattern will include sizes newborn to 3 years, once I finish editing it.

Argyle Style

2010-06-10T12:01:00.002+12:00

With our new baby due in about 9 weeks, I've been designing some newborn outfits for our (we're guessing!) son.
The patterns for both the hat and vest are currently available in my Etsy shop. The hat pattern includes sizes newborn to adult - the vest pattern includes sizes newborn to 12 yrs.

Mens 3-Stripe Tennis Shoes

2010-06-07T14:46:00.002+12:00

My husband has been asking me recently to make him a pair of slippers. I'm pretty picky when it comes to "crochet for men"...it has to be very masculine for me to approve of it. :) And generally crochet is not masculine. But I am very pleased with the look of these new slippers. I think they look super cool on hubby's feet and he loves them! :) Pattern is now available on Ravelry or in my Etsy shop.

Twirly Scarf

2010-06-04T12:03:00.000+12:00

My neighbor-girl back home in Wisconsin, who I have known since she was 5 months old, has just graduated from high school! She won several scholarships and awards and is heading off to college in the fall. As part of her graduation gift, I decided to design this scarf for her. She has lovely red hair and I think this color will suit her nicely. :)
Thanks to my husband's coworker for modeling this new design for me! I might have modeled it myself, but being 7 months pregnant, I didn't think that'd be a good look! :)

All Positive

2010-06-03T08:54:00.002+12:00

Beautiful Baby Shoes seems to be selling very well on the DRG Wholesale website. It has been ranking among the top 3 sellers and is currently at #1. I have my own author's page now on Amazon.com. And 4 more Holland Designs patterns will soon be added to the e-patternscentral website!

Toopy

2010-06-02T16:35:00.000+12:00

I don't normally spend much time making amigurumi, but over the past 2 days I have been busy creating my version of Toopy from "Toopy & Binoo." (No, I haven't made Binoo yet.) He measures approx. 12" tall standing. The pattern is now available on Ravelry or in my Crochetbury pattern shop on Etsy.

Holland's New Shoes

2010-05-26T19:35:00.000+12:00

I made Holland some new slippers today. These are the toddler version of my Boutique Mary Janes baby shoes. For this pattern, I added a little leaf to accent the flower. I get so much joy from seeing my little sweetie wearing something I've made. :) Next on the to-do list: Slippers for Daddy

Top Seller

2010-05-23T21:18:00.005+12:00

After a few weeks at #2, Beautiful Baby Shoes has now moved up to be the top seller in the crochet category on Annie's Attic. Thanks to all those who have purchased a copy. :)
The book is also now available on Amazon.com.

Toddler 3-Stripe Tennis Shoes

2010-05-21T15:35:00.003+12:00

I'm very excited about how cool this new pattern turned out.
These are the toddler version of my baby 3-stripe tennis shoes. Pattern includes sizes:
· 4.5 - (4.5" long - shoe size 4)
· 5 - (5" long - shoe size 5)
· 5.5 - (5.5" long - shoe size 7)
· 6 - (6" long - shoe size 8)
I hope to design the youth size in the next week or two.

Chocolate Brown Merino

2010-05-20T21:32:00.000+12:00

What to do with some leftover chocolate brown merino wool? Why, design some new baby shoes of course! :) I recently made a custom "smarty pants" diaper cover for Cathie of Phunkey Photos in exchange for a cute listing photo for my shop. Today with the leftover merino, I designed these new Boutique Mary Janes. Pattern includes sizes newborn, 3-6 and 6-12 mos.

Getting Ready for Baby

2010-05-19T11:49:00.000+12:00

With a new baby expected in about 12 weeks time, I'm very happy to have finally completed this little blanket! This is another of my "knit-look" designs...which may some day end up in a knit-look book, if my craft publisher decides to go ahead with it. In the meantime, the pattern is available in my Etsy shop and the sample will soon be keeping our new baby snug and warm! :)

Second Best

2010-05-13T22:56:00.001+12:00

Today I hit 6,000 sales in my Etsy shop and celebrated by giving away a free pattern to 6 winners - all fans on my facebook page. I do pattern and designer sample giveaways from time to time, so become a fan if you'd like to enter future giveaways! :)

My baby shoe book, Beautiful Baby Shoes, has been sitting at #2 on the Annie's Attic top-selling crochet pattern list for a couple weeks. It'd be nice to get to the #1 spot, but I'm enjoying being second best for the time being. :)

Ladies Cabled Cuff Boots

2010-05-13T12:18:00.002+12:00

The adult version of my cabled cuff baby booties is now available on Holland Designs...

I realize it's May and in the Northern Hemisphere no one is thinking of making or wearing crocheted boots and slippers...but "down under" these look really appealing with winter on the way. :)

New Knit-Look Designs

2010-05-12T14:57:00.001+12:00

I've been working on a few new designs recently - with the aim of possibly having them published in a future "knit-look" pattern book.
View these projects on Raverly:
Cabled Cuff Booties
- pattern now available on Holland Designs - includes sizes newborn, 3-6 and 6-12 mos. Adult sizes in the works too. :)
Knit-Look Baby Blanket
- pattern soon to be added to Holland Designs.

More Patterns now on Annie's Attic

2010-05-10T19:56:00.000+12:00

After signing a few more contracts, several additional Holland Designs patterns have now been added to the Annie's Attic website as PDF downloads. Some are single patterns; others are pattern combos. Here are the links:
Fascinator Headwrap & Hat Pattern Combo
Rose Garden Mary Janes Pattern Combo
Little Cupcake Booties & Hat Pattern Combo
Vintage Lace Beanie Pattern
Victorian Shrug Baby & Adult Pattern
Seamless Cardigan Pattern

Blog Carnival

2010-05-09T10:26:00.003+12:00

I had never heard of a "blog carnival" until last week...but it sure does sound fun, doesn't it? If you're interested in a wide variety of craft-related activities and projects, check out this website.

Almost Mother's Day

2010-05-02T17:23:00.000+12:00

Mother's day is just a week away! This year I decided that among the other little goodies I'd send, I'd also make my mom a pair of slippers. So, today I designed these new cute summery slipper sandals.
I hope Mom will like them. :)

Professional Shots

2010-04-26T17:28:00.001+12:00

I want to show off a couple of my latest designs, shot by multi-award winning New Zealand photographer, Jane Trevathan of Photography by Jane.
She was kind enough to do a casting call for a sweet little newborn and photograph these cocoons for me so I have professional pics to use in my pattern listings.
Both these patterns, the Newborn Egg Cocoon (in cream) and the Knit-Look Egg Cocoon (in gray) are now available on Holland Designs.

Today's Project

2010-04-15T14:51:00.001+12:00

I'm taking a break from designing to complete some custom projects. Today I made this rosebud baby set for a lady here in Auckland and took the chance to create some new listing photos for this pattern. The beanie is a modified version of my fascinator beanie - with accent stitching on the brim and a sweet little rosebud. :)
Next on the custom item "to do" list are a couple seamless cardis and a victorian shrug.

New This Week

2010-04-13T10:21:00.008+12:00

New to Holland Designs this week are a couple of patterns:
Firstly, I've added the Seamless Cardigan. Pattern includes sizes newborn to 2-3 years.
Secondly, this new Vintage Lace Beanie. Pattern includes sizes baby to adult.

Fascinator Beanie

2010-04-06T12:15:00.002+12:00

A friend recently asked me to make some beanies for her girls, so I am taking the opportunity to design some new hat patterns for my Etsy shop. Here is my Fascinator Beanie, which uses the same flower as the fascinator headwrap. Stay tuned for the next beanie design...coming soon. :)

Pattern includes sizes newborn up to 10 years.
Crocheted using 4-ply fingering weight yarn.

Fascinator Headwrap

2010-03-26T16:32:00.000+13:00

I was recently inspired by some gorgeous knit headwraps I saw for sale online, so decided to create my own "knit-look" crocheted version. It's so awesome to be able to use this crochet-technique to create a completely convincing knit-look design! Well, I love it anyhow. :)
I created a pretty "fascinator" flower to accent it and sewed a metallic button in the middle. It will keep Holland's ears warm as it's getting a little chilly here in New Zealand.

My Book!

2010-03-18T10:04:00.002+13:00

Holland looked at me a bit funny this morning when I was doing a little "happy dance" - but it is a happy day. :) My baby shoe book is now up on Annie's Attic, though not currently in stock. This was my 1st time seeing the cover. A few friends have asked for signed copies already. Can't wait to get a copy myself!

See it online

March

2010-03-15T09:02:00.001+13:00

Holland Designs is nearing 5,000 sales. :) I suggested to my husband that we'll need to celebrate this milestone in some way, but then again, it seems we are always celebrating something. Gil just took me out on Saturday night to see Harry Connick Jr. perform live in concert here in Auckland - in celebration of our 3rd wedding anniversary. We really enjoyed the show and how personable & humorous Mr. Connick was!

Late last week I designed these new baby shoes - after someone requested this style. They use a small piece of elastic as a strap. I think it is really nice (and functional) to be able to combine some aspects of fabric shoes with crocheted ones.

Peep Toe Baby Shoes

Pattern includes size 0-18 mos

Ladies Cabled Ballet Flats

2010-03-08T15:45:00.000+13:00

I found my favorite crochet hook and enough yarn to design these new ladies slippers today. I have been intending to make these for a while, but hadn't...until I was prompted yesterday by someone requesting the pattern.
I'm quite pleased with how the cables turned out in this lovely shade of red.

A Moving Experience

2010-03-08T12:24:00.001+13:00

I haven't posted on my blog in a while because we've been busy moving to our new house. We found a very spacious 3-bdrm house out in a rural setting, just a couple miles from my husband's work. It's so ideal for us and we need the extra space with the new baby on the way. We have a huge backyard and even horses grazing in the field next door. I have a nice walk-in pantry off my kitchen which I am going to use for my craft storage.

We're still unpacking and getting settled in, but I'll be back to designing once I find all my yarn and crochet hooks amid all the boxes. :)

Elsewhere on the Web

2010-02-25T09:13:00.005+13:00

Several of my patterns are currently selling elsewhere on the web. My knit-look cloche is in February's top 10 for crochet on E-patternscentral.

I also have two patterns up on the Annie's Attic website...with a couple more to be added soon.

Knit-Look Cardigan

2010-02-24T13:00:00.000+13:00

Today I finally felt inspired & motivated to finish typing up my Knit-Look Cardigan pattern. I made this sweater for Holland back in December and she wore it several times while we were visiting family in the States. I received so many compliments and comments on her gorgeous sweater, which was an extra compliment because I had made it, of course! :)
So, now you too can add this sweater to your little girl's wardrobe. Pattern includes sizes newborn to 12 years. I've put the skill level at advanced, because it is a bit more complicated. It helps if you've made a sweater before.

It's a Wrap

2010-02-19T11:14:00.001+13:00

As you may recall, a few months ago I made Holland a knit-look cardigan. Well, recently, I tried the same thing in a wrap-style sweater. I made size 0-3 mos for this sample. I'm not completely happy with where the waistline fell - so will give it another try sometime soon. I will probably make one for Holland to model and wear this coming winter (read June down under).

New Youth Sizes

2010-02-19T08:16:00.001+13:00

Yesterday I was asked if my "watermelon cuties" would be available in youth sizes by the mom of a little girl who was just dying to have a pair. :) I've never offered youth sizes before, but yesterday I came up with a basic youth-size sole, similar to my ladies sole - only in a narrower width. It's designed so you can customize the length - making it so easy to get a perfect fit! This will now make it easy for me to offer youth sizes in my other slipper designs. All I need now is a youth-size foot model...

Just for Fun

2010-02-17T11:21:00.000+13:00

Ladies Watermelon Mary Janes

New in Shop

2010-02-16T14:01:00.007+13:00

Watermelon Mary Janes

New to the Holland Designs shop this week are these fun watermelon mary jane baby shoes...just in time for the warmer months.

Pattern includes size newborn to 18 mos. Crocheted using worsted weight yarn. Sample was made using Debbie Bliss Pure Cotton.

Upsy Daisy Beanie

2010-02-12T15:29:00.001+13:00

Even though many in the northern hemisphere are experiencing cold and snow right now...there is hope...Spring will come again. :)
Holland modeled this new hat for me today. The pattern includes newborn up to 10 years. Would be a gorgeous prop for baby's first photos too. Features large layered daisy on the brim.

Shopping Handmade

2010-02-12T10:13:00.005+13:00

I visited a couple lovely online handmade shops this week:
Firstly, I bought a custom "Big Sister" t-shirt for Holland from this Etsy shop. It will say "Holland" on the bottom of course. :)
Secondly, I bought a baby sling from Serenity Slings on Little Kiwis Nest. Michelle's customer service is exceptional! Check out her shop. :)

Fan Page

2010-02-09T10:32:00.000+13:00

I decided to create a fan page for Holland Designs today. It's brand new so excuse the lack of content at the moment. I will post about new designs...things I'm working on and other news. Maybe even have the occassional giveaway or other fun stuff...who knows? :) Click here: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Holland-Designs/308496748856 or see the fan box at the sidebar.

Weekend at the Lake

2010-02-08T08:12:00.013+13:00

Here are some photos from our weekend at Lake Okareka (pronounced like "O-care-ica") - near Rotorua. We took a walk in the NZ redwood forest, shared an ice-cream cone and watched daddy go water-skiing.

Criss-Cross Mary Janes

2010-02-08T07:37:00.009+13:00

I created these new Mary Janes over the weekend. Holland squeezed her foot into the baby ones (which were really too small for her length-wise) and I managed to get a cute photo.
Then my friend, Peci, was really sweet and modeled the ladies ones for me. She got a new pair of slippers out of the deal. :) Thanks, Peci!

12+ Weeks

2010-02-02T08:53:00.003+13:00

Yesterday we visited our midwife for the 1st time. She's the same lady we had when I was pregnant with Holland, so it was really nice - like getting together with an old friend. Since this was my 1st appointment for the new baby, it was mostly just paperwork, but we did get to hear the baby's heartbeat for the 1st time. I had wondered what it'd be like this time - considering we'd done this all before with Holland - but it was just as moving and special to hear this baby's heartbeat. :)

Sweet T-Strap Baby Shoes

2010-01-27T11:27:00.006+13:00

How lovely and green it is here in New Zealand most of the year...as you can see from our lawn. :) I photographed these new baby shoes outside today in the early morning light.

This new design features ribbon ankle ties and pretty ribbon & flower detail at the toes. I always enjoy a project with a little hand-sewing. I'd make a pair or two for our new baby...but we're hoping for a boy this time! :)

Rosebud Garland Headband

2010-01-26T17:18:00.007+13:00

I'm in love with this new headband I made for Holland today. Her hair isn't long enough to put up yet, so it is great for keeping her curls off her forehead in the hot weather. It coordinates perfectly with my rosebud baby shoes pattern and would make a lovely gift for a new baby girl, sweet little toddler, or older child. It is made using elastic lace ribbon and the rosebuds are crocheted using fingering weight yarn. I sewed 7 rosebuds on the headband, but any number could be added. Wouldn't this be gorgeous on a little flower girl! :)

Proverbs 4:9 describes wisdom as: "She will place on your head a graceful garland; she will bestow on you a beautiful crown."

Holland Quote:

2010-01-20T13:09:00.003+13:00

"I'm making a crochet!"

Motorbike Cosy

2010-01-19T16:27:00.003+13:00

My husband forwarded an email to me this afternoon. His coworker had sent it to him with the heading, "I wonder how long it would take Lisa to make this?"
The answer is...not in a million years...well, okay maybe if someone paid me a million dollars to do it, I might reconsider. :)

Budding Seamstress?

2010-01-19T10:00:00.015+13:00

Here is my budding little seamstress. :)
Okay, she thinks it's a scarf...
I haven't been up to much craft-wise lately, but do have a few new design ideas in my head. At the moment I'm focusing on getting some paperwork done as I get a few patterns ready to go up for sale on e-patternscentral.

We took Holland to...
in Auckland this past weekend. We loved seeing the penguins and the huge sea turtle. Ah, fun summer days... :)

Winter vs. Summer

2010-01-10T20:48:00.013+13:00

At last, Holland and I are back from our month-long trip to the States! We had a nice time visiting family and experienced our share of cold weather and snow-shovelling. Holland loved the snow, but I personally am so glad to be back in New Zealand enjoying gorgeous summer weather and trips to the beach. :)
I didn't do very much crocheting or designing while I was away...I just took a break from it all for a while. Partly this was due to the fact that I wasn't feeling 100% for most of the trip. As it turns out...we're happily expecting another baby sometime in early August.

"Manning the Shop"

2009-12-16T20:43:00.005+13:00

Lisa & Holland are having a great time in Wisconsin shoveling snow. I am here at home "manning" the shop. It has been really busy, I hope that our customers have not had to wait too long for the delivery of their patterns. I can tell you that I have spent all the profit this month, check out the nice road bike that I have just purchased - don't tell Lisa!

Moose A. Moose

2009-12-04T19:12:00.007+13:00

Today I made a Moose...but not just any moose! I custom-designed this crochet amigurumi version of the character "Moose A. Moose" from Noggin for a lady on Etsy. Her granddaughter just adores Moose A. Moose and she wanted to make one for her...but could not find any patterns. It was a fun little project and a nice way to test out the limits of my amigurumi-designing abilities, since as you can see, he's got a rather complicated shape! Holland has been saying "moose" and carrying him around by his antlers.

Baby Version

2009-12-03T08:08:00.003+13:00

Holland wanted a pair of slippers just like mom's, so I made these for her last night.

Goodie 2-Strap Baby Shoes

Pattern includes sizes 0-6 mos, 6-12 mos & 12-18 mos.

Goodie One-Shoe

2009-12-02T15:18:00.007+13:00

I don't know why I decided to design some new slippers today when I have so much to do to get ready for my upcoming trip! I have about a dozen mini-cupcakes to make for a Little Kiwis Nest order, plus packing to do, etc.
I've only finished one of these slippers so far, as per usual...but plan to finish the other before I leave. They will be great to wear on the 14 hour airplane ride to L.A. :)

Goodie 2-Strap Ballet Flats

Features 2 side-buttoning straps and a really cool ribbed detail for a snug fit at the heel.

Winter Holiday Cardigan

2009-12-01T17:04:00.016+13:00

Today I finished Holland's sweater, adding the sleeves, ribbed neckline and picot edging to cuffs, neckline, front and bottom of cardigan. The yarn I used is a cotton/acrylic/nylon/wool blend and is super soft and warm. I may try to write this pattern up in size 1-3 years only and then design something similar in baby sizes later on...

Sleeveless in New Zealand

2009-11-30T17:16:00.005+13:00

I’m taking Holland to visit her grandparents in Wisconsin for the entire month of December. She will need something to keep her extra warm, so I am making this sweater for her to wear on our trip.
This design uses my “knit-look” crochet technique, same as I’ve used on my fingerless gloves pattern, knit-look cloche, etc. Unfortunately, I think this design (the way I chose to make it) is just a tad too complicated for me to type up and sell as a Holland Designs pattern. I may do something similar that isn’t as tricky at a later date to add to my pattern shop.
I’ve just finished the main part of the cardigan & still need to add sleeves and maybe an edging at the neckline.

Baby Morepork Owl

2009-11-27T15:22:00.009+13:00

It's time to put the crochet hooks away ...and tidy up the house. But before I bid you adieu for the weekend, here is my latest creative effort, my baby morepork owl.
The pattern and the designer sample are up for sale in my crochetbury shop. I love this photo! Baby Morepork looks like he's learning to fly!

Bundle of Joy

2009-11-26T21:30:00.007+13:00

This little bundle of joy is the newest pattern I've added to Crochetbury shop. It's a really quick and easy pattern to make, using worsted weight yarn. The very simple design was inspired by the logo for the National Premmie Foundation of Australia.

Crochetbury Bundle Baby - measures approx. 5" tall

Etsy Swap

2009-11-26T09:10:00.003+13:00

I did my 1st swap on Etsy the other day, with Becky from Whosies and Whatnots.
She was interested in several of my patterns, so I swapped for a set of adorable cupcake potholders. They arrived in the mail yesterday and I used them this morning to pull a fresh batch of chocolate chip 'n oat muffins out of the oven. She sells the sewing pattern and also some handmade sets in her shop.