I re-wrote my crochet basics baby shoe pattern last night while making samples for the craft publisher. It now uses worsted weight cotton yarn throughout and the heel has been modified to be higher at the back and give a snugger fit. I made one (in size 18-24 mos.) for Holland quickly this morning while testing the pattern. Now I've turned her into Cinderella too. :)
I designed another pattern for my Crochetbury shop today and made some new friends for Holland to play with. These Matryoshka mom and baby dolls are such a cute pair. The mommy's head scarf is removable and can also be used as a blanket for her sweet little baby.
This week I will be busy stitching samples for my very first crochet pattern book, to be produced by American craft book publisher, DRG Networks. It will feature 9 of my baby shoe patterns. Today I went yarn shopping hoping to find just the right yarn weights and colors for my samples. I've also designed a new baby hat this weekend and the pattern will be up in my shop in the next day or two. It coordinates with one of my baby shoe patterns...just a hint. :) Oma, I started your sweater this weekend also. I finally know what pattern I'm going to use and it is about 1% finished. :) I'll keep you updated on its progress.
Today I designed some new slippers...the ladies version of my side-button loafers. I used some DK weight cotton/acrylic blend yarn in a heather gray with a mocha brown trim. Someone asked me yesterday to design the adult version of my side-button boots...so I may do that at some point. Next on the to do list...make some slippers for a friend who has been patiently waiting and finish a scarf for my sister before the weather gets too chilly in Toronto.
I've added a new design to my Crochetbury shop today. Measuring 3" tall, they're perfect for little hands to hold and play with. The basic dolls can be varied by changing their hairstyles and the colors of their kimono wraps. Holland really likes them and she's my most important critic at the moment. :)
A while ago I made a hat (my knit-look crocheted cloche) for New Zealand kids' show presenter, Kanoa, to wear on StickyTV. She commented on it and thanked me for it in the 1st few minutes. And doesn't she look lovely in it! :)
We had a great time visiting the Gold Coast of Australia for the past 10 days. The weather was gorgeous, sunny and warm. We even got a little tanned. It was lovely! We visited Sea World and saw their dolphin show and went on a few water rides. We also toured the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and saw koala bears, wombats, kangaroos and a Tasmanian devil...oh and crocodiles!
Here a few of my latest designs... Side-Button Loafers - Pattern PDF: These coordinating pairs I made for my sister's newest little nephews. They were born at the end of August, so I made these to fit 0-3 mos. I also designed this high-top version and the sample pair is currently for sale in my Etsy shop under my designer handmade section. Side-Button Boots - Pattern PDF:
I am taking a "crochet holiday." No, don't picture me lying under a palm tree with a drink in one hand and a crochet hook in the other, happily designing baby shoes. :) What I actually mean is I won't be crocheting for the entire duration of my trip. We are going to visit Australia's Gold Coast and will enjoy the gorgeous beaches and even take a trip to Sea World (near Brisbane). Holland will love it, as will we! I'll post a few photos when we get back. Goodbye dear, sweet crochet hooks...I will miss you! :)
The fall issue of Petite Purls has just been launched. Most of the patterns on the site are for knitting, but they have introduced a new section called "Crochet Corner." Check out my latest baby shoe pattern available for free on their site. Click here to get the pattern. They've named it "Cou-de-pied" which is the name of a ballet pose...for those of you who, like me, never took ballet as a kid. :)