The question is "Baby, Do You Wanna Bump?" by Boney M.
I couldn't resist this revelry, especially on Halloween! Enjoy!
a blog about art, making, and learning. Art, like bread, feeds the soul.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
Book Review: The Granny Square Book by Margaret Hubert
Granny and I have had an interesting relationship. I'm not going to pretend to be one of those crocheters who has always been enchanted by granny squares. For most of my life, granny squares were associated with tacky couches covered in clear plastic, saggy nylons, and the smell of mothballs. (Perhaps I have revealed too much about my childhood. - Just kidding!!)
But seriously, it hasn't been until recently that I've see the versatility in this classic shape, the vibrant color potential, and {how fashionable granny squares can be}. Granny's everywhere, y'all, and she's staying out late!
I can hardly believe my luck these days. I got a review copy of The Granny Square Book: Timeless techniques & fresh ideas for crocheting square by square by *Margaret Hubert*. Margaret Hubert is a prolific crochet & knit designer, and she's been in this business since the 1960s. I heard about her on one of my favorite podcasts, Getting Loopy with Mary Beth Temple.
This book is beautiful, inspirational, and stunning. There are 75 fresh g-square designs, and then the really exciting part- a whole section on designing with granny squares. Some people say that all yarn crafters are designers- probably because we take patterns and switch up yarn colors, substitute yarns, and make each creation our own. I agree with that, but there is also another level to design, which would be conceiving of an idea in your head, and figuring out how to make it real. Pattern design could include using interesting construction techniques, and communicating those techniques so that they can be replicated.
Do yourself a favor- don't skip the intro section. It has some cute anecdotes from avid crocheters and familiar designers. :) I even learned a new technique- the invisible join!
On to the designs! I LOVE square number one. I'm seeing a gold scarf made from that one. :) These squares are very pretty and have tremendous potential. There are a lot of flower-centered motifs. That would make a cute garden-themed blanket or handbag. Sometimes I just like to make motifs in sock yarn because they are pretty and I learn something. Perhaps I shall try that for this book.
Here are three versions of square number one: Picot Square! I'm doing a scarf made from these squares.
Dare I make every single square? :) If you want a sample, check out this post at Craftside, which includes a free sample pattern!
You'll be happy to know that in addition to written instructions, Margaret provides clear schematics, and instructions for *half* squares in some designs.
The design section is different- in a good way! It starts off simple, with several basic projects you can adapt using yarn and hook choice. This is great because honestly, you can keep busy for quite a long time just doing these few simple projects. But, of course, the section gets more in-depth and explains the process of graphing to design your granny projects. Since we're working with squares, that makes a lot of sense!
There are progressively more intricate patterns, and each are laid out so that the crocheter *understands* them. I remember when I first started crocheting with patterns. It was a leap of faith. I felt like I did when I would try a new form in origami- if I just follow these instructions, somehow I will magically come out with a form that looks like something. With these patterns, the construction is explained, so I was able to get an idea of how it works before even beginning the project.
I particularly like the Yoga Tunic and Bag Pattern. I may see these in my future. I am also eying the Pillows with Panache.
Over all, it's a good book. Lots of ideas here. It's worth it for just the square designs, but there's so much more.
For more grannynspiration, definitely check out Sarah London, and the beautiful Things to Make and Do blog. :)
But seriously, it hasn't been until recently that I've see the versatility in this classic shape, the vibrant color potential, and {how fashionable granny squares can be}. Granny's everywhere, y'all, and she's staying out late!
 |
| Image used with permission of publisher. |
I can hardly believe my luck these days. I got a review copy of The Granny Square Book: Timeless techniques & fresh ideas for crocheting square by square by *Margaret Hubert*. Margaret Hubert is a prolific crochet & knit designer, and she's been in this business since the 1960s. I heard about her on one of my favorite podcasts, Getting Loopy with Mary Beth Temple.
This book is beautiful, inspirational, and stunning. There are 75 fresh g-square designs, and then the really exciting part- a whole section on designing with granny squares. Some people say that all yarn crafters are designers- probably because we take patterns and switch up yarn colors, substitute yarns, and make each creation our own. I agree with that, but there is also another level to design, which would be conceiving of an idea in your head, and figuring out how to make it real. Pattern design could include using interesting construction techniques, and communicating those techniques so that they can be replicated.
Section by Section
Do yourself a favor- don't skip the intro section. It has some cute anecdotes from avid crocheters and familiar designers. :) I even learned a new technique- the invisible join!
On to the designs! I LOVE square number one. I'm seeing a gold scarf made from that one. :) These squares are very pretty and have tremendous potential. There are a lot of flower-centered motifs. That would make a cute garden-themed blanket or handbag. Sometimes I just like to make motifs in sock yarn because they are pretty and I learn something. Perhaps I shall try that for this book.
Here are three versions of square number one: Picot Square! I'm doing a scarf made from these squares.
 |
| Pretty cool in this fuzzy yarn, eh? |
You'll be happy to know that in addition to written instructions, Margaret provides clear schematics, and instructions for *half* squares in some designs.
The design section is different- in a good way! It starts off simple, with several basic projects you can adapt using yarn and hook choice. This is great because honestly, you can keep busy for quite a long time just doing these few simple projects. But, of course, the section gets more in-depth and explains the process of graphing to design your granny projects. Since we're working with squares, that makes a lot of sense!
There are progressively more intricate patterns, and each are laid out so that the crocheter *understands* them. I remember when I first started crocheting with patterns. It was a leap of faith. I felt like I did when I would try a new form in origami- if I just follow these instructions, somehow I will magically come out with a form that looks like something. With these patterns, the construction is explained, so I was able to get an idea of how it works before even beginning the project.
I particularly like the Yoga Tunic and Bag Pattern. I may see these in my future. I am also eying the Pillows with Panache.
Over all, it's a good book. Lots of ideas here. It's worth it for just the square designs, but there's so much more.
For more grannynspiration, definitely check out Sarah London, and the beautiful Things to Make and Do blog. :)
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
#Christmas Crafting! 20 Free, Masculine #Crochet Pattern Links
We all know that gender expression is a pretty relative thing, and nothing really could be defined as "for a man or a woman". Well, that's what I think, anyway. Even so, I personally have at least two men on my perpetual Christmas list that have a traditionally masculine style.
Each hand-crocheted gift is an individual creation, from the moment you pick the pattern and yarn, until the finished item is gifted. So, use the list below to choose projects for those people who can rock a masculine style.
Cables are cute, too!
Seriously- How adorable is this?Yeah. Sock monkeys know no gender. No age, either.
For the wee ones on your list- a cute turtle from Red Heart!
This would look great on any guy's couch.
Each hand-crocheted gift is an individual creation, from the moment you pick the pattern and yarn, until the finished item is gifted. So, use the list below to choose projects for those people who can rock a masculine style.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. All
Ooo, cool! The Brain Waves Beanie pattern comes
in child & adult sizes at Playin' Hooky.
 |
| Link over to "Playin' Hooky Designs" for the free pattern. |
Inspired?
This earflap hat can be made in any color.
This earflap hat can be made in any color.
The design team at Lion Brand never fails.
 |
| Earflap Hat by Lion Brand. Click through to find pattern. |
This guy's sly smile tells us one thing.
He loves this hat!
He loves this hat!
 |
| Streetwise Brim Hat by Red Heart. Click for free pattern owned by Red Heart. |
A guy would totally wear this and it's totally in style right now.
Ooo. Now this is an interesting one. I could see the boys in my class loving this one.
Link to "The Convertible" free pattern by Deborah E. Burger for Crochet Uncut
Link to "The Convertible" free pattern by Deborah E. Burger for Crochet Uncut
The basketweave scarf is a classic. It's easy and adds texture.
It's great for practicing post stitches.
 |
| Winter Wear Accessories by Marilyn Coleman and Gayle Bunn for Red Heart. Patterns owned by Red Heart. |
Cables are cute, too!
I am all about this scarf in a bulky, non-fuzzy yarn.
 |
| Alternating Windowpanes Scarf Click for free pattern on Crochet Me. |
For the interesting, pensive types, try Dave 2.0 by Vickie Howell.
 |
| Click for free pattern on Crochet Me. |
I've made a Flexi Cowl and they RULE!
It's an easy pattern with many possibilities.
 |
| Flexi Cowl by Alicia Ramirez of hookandneedles.com |
Babies would love these!
 |
| Beep Beep Bib Free Pattern owned by Red Heart |
 |
| Free pattern by Linda Cyr for Red Heart. Pattern owned by Red Heart. |
 |
| Turtle Pillow Pal by Nancy Anderson for Red Heart. Click for free pattern owned by Red Heart. |
 |
| Diagonal Pillow by Kathy Wigington for Red Heart. Click for free pattern owned by Red Heart. |
This would be a fun way to practice your colorwork while making a sweet gift.
A music lover would love this, too!
 |
| Two-Color Pillow by Candi Jensen for Red Heart. Link to free pattern owned by Red Heart. |
A music lover would love this, too!
Who doesn't want this cute rug in their home?
 |
| Whimsy Stripes Rug by Lion Brand. Click for Free Pattern. |
Dishcloths or washcloths are quick, useful, and always appreciated.
Here's a cute one from Lion Brand.
 |
| Click here for the free pattern on LionBrand.com |
Nosh.
 |
| Free burger pattern from Lion Brand. Yums! |
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Innovative Sculpture by Dev Harlan
I saw this video link on Olek's facebook page. It's exquisite.
Dev Harlan - "Parmenides I", 2011 from Dev Harlan on Vimeo.
Dev Harlan - "Parmenides I", 2011
Foam, wood, plaster, video projection
Dimensions approx 8' diameter
Light sculpture at Christopher Henry Gallery, NY. Presented as part of Dev Harlan's solo exhibition "The Astral Flight Hangar"
Videographer: Dustin Cohen
Audio: USMILEAMBIENT by Shamantis
More about Dev Harlan here.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Knitting Goes Digital? It's About Time!
I belong to a crafting group that meets once a month or so to sit around, gab, and shoot the stitch. We're a mixture of students, mothers, teachers, and professionals. A couple of us are expats. One of the things that comes up time after time (especially among the expats in the group) is the marked dearth of knit and crochet books that are available digitally.
We are craft consumers. We are the target audience. We want those hot craft books the minute they come out. Seriously, though, the titles are just not available to us locally, and buying online means a cost more than double the list price, and hoping that the book actually arrives.
So I just about did a backflip when I got the following video and email in my inbox. STC Craft | Melanie Falick Books has released eight wonderful knitting titles in digital form. Happy dance!
Check out this wonderful video which really highlights how special these books are. It's inspirational!
I had the received a sample copy of Last-Minute Knitted Gifts, which downloaded quickly and perfectly onto my little netbook. I anxiously devoured the digital pages, and found that although I am primarily a crocheter, this book has much to offer even me.
For one, I was enthused to realize that the author is none other than Joelle Hoverson, the owner of Purl Soho. I'm about to admit to some serious craft geekery here, but I actually read the entire Purl Bee blog this summer. Yeah. I'm serious. It just rocks, people. That's all that needs to be said.*
Last-Minute Knitted Gifts begins with some background information on the store, Purl, as the impetus for the book. The author goes into choosing project colors and color theory. I love color, and color theory is of paramount interest! The author goes on to explain the color choices for a few of the projects in the book and why they are so striking.
Then it's on to the projects! This book is a winner, and it has an avid following on Ravelry. :) I don't know about you, but I always check Ravelry to see which patterns are available in the book and just what can be done with the patterns.
If you are looking for a gift to knit in less than 2 hours, 2-4 hours, 4-6 hours, 6-8 hours, or 8+ hours, download this book immediately. It's good stuff. As for me, I'm eyeing the under 2-hour gifts. That's mainly because those are the ones I feel I can finish, and also because I have lots of baby friends who would love a hand-knit something to keep them warm this winter!
The final thing I wanted to point out about this book is that even though it was originally printed in 2004, it remains perfectly relevant with timeless designs and even a beautiful chevron scarf that even Missoni would envy.
We are craft consumers. We are the target audience. We want those hot craft books the minute they come out. Seriously, though, the titles are just not available to us locally, and buying online means a cost more than double the list price, and hoping that the book actually arrives.
So I just about did a backflip when I got the following video and email in my inbox. STC Craft | Melanie Falick Books has released eight wonderful knitting titles in digital form. Happy dance!
Check out this wonderful video which really highlights how special these books are. It's inspirational!
I had the received a sample copy of Last-Minute Knitted Gifts, which downloaded quickly and perfectly onto my little netbook. I anxiously devoured the digital pages, and found that although I am primarily a crocheter, this book has much to offer even me.
For one, I was enthused to realize that the author is none other than Joelle Hoverson, the owner of Purl Soho. I'm about to admit to some serious craft geekery here, but I actually read the entire Purl Bee blog this summer. Yeah. I'm serious. It just rocks, people. That's all that needs to be said.*
 |
| Click to see a quintessential Purl Bee posting. You'll bee in love. Image property of Purl Bee and used with permission. |
Last-Minute Knitted Gifts begins with some background information on the store, Purl, as the impetus for the book. The author goes into choosing project colors and color theory. I love color, and color theory is of paramount interest! The author goes on to explain the color choices for a few of the projects in the book and why they are so striking.
Then it's on to the projects! This book is a winner, and it has an avid following on Ravelry. :) I don't know about you, but I always check Ravelry to see which patterns are available in the book and just what can be done with the patterns.
If you are looking for a gift to knit in less than 2 hours, 2-4 hours, 4-6 hours, 6-8 hours, or 8+ hours, download this book immediately. It's good stuff. As for me, I'm eyeing the under 2-hour gifts. That's mainly because those are the ones I feel I can finish, and also because I have lots of baby friends who would love a hand-knit something to keep them warm this winter!
The final thing I wanted to point out about this book is that even though it was originally printed in 2004, it remains perfectly relevant with timeless designs and even a beautiful chevron scarf that even Missoni would envy.
 |
| photo copyright 2004 Anna Williams | used with permission of the publisher |
*As an aside, reading the Purl Bee Blog and watching the entire season of She's Crafty on DVD got me
into this "I'm so excited for Christmas" kick. I'm still on it. Not exactly normal for me, but, hey, I'm going with it.
BTDubs, the publisher requested I put the book cover and video in this post.
Definitely check out the video! There are also other videos on the site which
are equally as inspiring.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
#Giveaway! The Big-Ass Book of #Crafts 2 by Mark Montano!
I have exciting news to share today! Tuesday, Oct. 11 marks the launch of the next AMAZING craft book by Mark Montano. Check out this video to find out all about it!
The Big-Ass Book of Crafts 2 (sample project link) is the sequel to the wildly successful Big-Ass Book of Crafts, which is now available digitally!
You can be sure that I was incredibly excited when Mark's publisher contacted me to review the book. Just a few days later, I had it in my hot little hands, before the release date! Gallery Books was even kind enough to set up an interview with Mark Montano for the Art, Like Bread Podcast, which is still in its infancy, but how lucky am I to have such an opportunity. Stay tuned to the blog for more on that.
Seriously, I LOVE Mark Montano. I have always admired his aesthetic sense and I truly believe that he has an open, creative, interesting, and accessible approach to craft and design. I have been passing his book around to my students and crafty friends and EVERYONE wants a copy.
Well, anyone can buy a copy at their local book shop or online retailer, but TWO, yes TWO lucky Art, Like Bread readers will win a copy of this amazing book for their very own!
Mark Montano's blog is one of my absolute favorites, and he updates it regularly with inspirational pictures and great projects to try. Most recently, I was amazed by this beautiful flower, made from a recycled water bottle.
In order to enter to win a copy of The Big Ass Book of Crafts 2 by Mark Montano, simply leave a comment on this blog post. :) I will use a random number generator to choose the two lucky winners on November 11, 2011, and your book will be shipped to you directly from the publisher.
Trust me, you'll find something you absolutely have to make in this book. You'll find great techniques you've never tried. You'll find interesting ways to use normal, household items. You'll be inspired. I am!
ETA: The giveaway has ended. Thank you to all who entered. The winners are posted here.
The Big-Ass Book of Crafts 2 (sample project link) is the sequel to the wildly successful Big-Ass Book of Crafts, which is now available digitally!
You can be sure that I was incredibly excited when Mark's publisher contacted me to review the book. Just a few days later, I had it in my hot little hands, before the release date! Gallery Books was even kind enough to set up an interview with Mark Montano for the Art, Like Bread Podcast, which is still in its infancy, but how lucky am I to have such an opportunity. Stay tuned to the blog for more on that.
Seriously, I LOVE Mark Montano. I have always admired his aesthetic sense and I truly believe that he has an open, creative, interesting, and accessible approach to craft and design. I have been passing his book around to my students and crafty friends and EVERYONE wants a copy.
 |
| Look how many bookmarks I added. This book will get a LOT of use! |
Mark Montano's blog is one of my absolute favorites, and he updates it regularly with inspirational pictures and great projects to try. Most recently, I was amazed by this beautiful flower, made from a recycled water bottle.
In order to enter to win a copy of The Big Ass Book of Crafts 2 by Mark Montano, simply leave a comment on this blog post. :) I will use a random number generator to choose the two lucky winners on November 11, 2011, and your book will be shipped to you directly from the publisher.
Trust me, you'll find something you absolutely have to make in this book. You'll find great techniques you've never tried. You'll find interesting ways to use normal, household items. You'll be inspired. I am!
ETA: The giveaway has ended. Thank you to all who entered. The winners are posted here.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Reviews
Guess what? Art, Like Bread readers can look forward to more reviews here on the blog! Somehow, someone has identified my blog as a good place to promote new books and products.
As you know, I do this simply for the love of craft, but I've always dreamed of being one of those bloggers who "has been sent a sample copy" of a book, or "requested a sample" of a product. I'll review products & books I like anyway, but being asked to review is flattering and fun!
Stay tuned in the next few days for a BIG DEAL book review and giveaway!! Until then, I've drafted this blog post to let the world know that I am open. I welcome the prosperity and I want to pass it on to you, too.
Let me know what you think, readers! It's all for you, after all.
HONESTY
My first responsibility is to my readers.
I started this blog in 2007 simply as a way to share my craft projects, ideas, and inspiration. Over the years, the blog has grown into something more: a space for community-building and conversation. Through my participation in online and real-life crafting communities, and also through my extensive personal and work-related networks, I have grown a loyal, specialized cohort people who admire a handmade or artistic aesthetic, and of course, hardcore & casual crafters.
ENTHUSIASM | POSITIVITY
I am happy to provide honest, reliable book and product reviews for them. Get me excited about a product and I won't shut up about it! If I don't like it, I simply won't review it. It is important to me that my blog is a place where I can be positive and send positivity into the world.
GROWTH
- Art, Like Bread will be featured in two prominent, upcoming crochet books. As of October, 2011, I have received confirmation of the inclusion of my patterns in these books.
- The Art, Like Bread Podcast has launched and will increase the readership and reach of Art, Like Bread.
- I have a team of trusted and knowledgeable reviewers who can cover products as well.
FOCUS
Crochet, collage, crafts, yarn, coffee, tea, scrapbooking, paper, stationery, rubber stamping, fabric, sewing, tools, food, cooking, fashion, accessories, gifts, children, and anything fun/useful for my readers! (Check out my labels at the bottom of the blog for very specific information on what I've written.)
CONTACT
If you have a product to share, please contact Cami at artlikebread(at)gmail.com. I excitedly check this account to see what's out there! My readers love giveaways, and I love to provide them, so if you have a new product to share, I'm ready to pass that on to my amazing network of wonderful readers!
YAY!!
As you know, I do this simply for the love of craft, but I've always dreamed of being one of those bloggers who "has been sent a sample copy" of a book, or "requested a sample" of a product. I'll review products & books I like anyway, but being asked to review is flattering and fun!
Stay tuned in the next few days for a BIG DEAL book review and giveaway!! Until then, I've drafted this blog post to let the world know that I am open. I welcome the prosperity and I want to pass it on to you, too.
Let me know what you think, readers! It's all for you, after all.
HONESTY
My first responsibility is to my readers.
I started this blog in 2007 simply as a way to share my craft projects, ideas, and inspiration. Over the years, the blog has grown into something more: a space for community-building and conversation. Through my participation in online and real-life crafting communities, and also through my extensive personal and work-related networks, I have grown a loyal, specialized cohort people who admire a handmade or artistic aesthetic, and of course, hardcore & casual crafters.
ENTHUSIASM | POSITIVITY
I am happy to provide honest, reliable book and product reviews for them. Get me excited about a product and I won't shut up about it! If I don't like it, I simply won't review it. It is important to me that my blog is a place where I can be positive and send positivity into the world.
GROWTH
- Art, Like Bread will be featured in two prominent, upcoming crochet books. As of October, 2011, I have received confirmation of the inclusion of my patterns in these books.
- The Art, Like Bread Podcast has launched and will increase the readership and reach of Art, Like Bread.
- I have a team of trusted and knowledgeable reviewers who can cover products as well.
FOCUS
Crochet, collage, crafts, yarn, coffee, tea, scrapbooking, paper, stationery, rubber stamping, fabric, sewing, tools, food, cooking, fashion, accessories, gifts, children, and anything fun/useful for my readers! (Check out my labels at the bottom of the blog for very specific information on what I've written.)
CONTACT
If you have a product to share, please contact Cami at artlikebread(at)gmail.com. I excitedly check this account to see what's out there! My readers love giveaways, and I love to provide them, so if you have a new product to share, I'm ready to pass that on to my amazing network of wonderful readers!
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Inspiration: the 1920's
 |
| Image Source: Amazon.Com |
 |
| Image Source: http://images.quickblogcast.com/ |
 |
| Image Source: amsu-english.wikispaces.com |
So, the past exists with us now, and, inspired by the film, in which the main character actually visits the 1920s and meets his historic literary and artistic idols, I spent hours on the internet finding more information about Hemingway, Stein, Baker, Brunel, and the movements of the time.
 |
| Image Source: danliterature.files.wordpress.com |
Then my favorite crochet fashionistas, The Double Stitch Twins released this pic in their Etsy shop
 |
| Click through to find this garment for sale on Etsy.Photo credit: Double Stitch Twins |
I think it would be perfect for a Josephine Baker costume
(in white over a long, simple, white sheath dress).
 |
| Image Source: findagrave.com |
It would be easy to find feathers and big jewels.
One last taste of the 1920s for you: Vogue Magazine tweeted the Marc Jacobs Spring 2011 Collection from NYC Mercedes Benz Fashion Week.
 |
| Images by Vogue Magazine |
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Digital Collage Using Picasa
I'm very interested in learning digital scrapbooking for a lot of reasons. Firstly, I don't want to devote quite as much space to scrapbooking supplies as I currently do. Secondly, I have TONS of digital pictures. (No surprise there.) And finally, I hear that making a digital scrapbook page is pretty quick- much quicker than a traditional one.
My problem is that I don't have Photoshop on my computer. I also don't know how to use it. When I use a computer program, I just tend to play around with it. I don't necessarily explore every option. I downloaded a free version of Picasa by Google, and I use that to edit my photos nowadays. I like Picasa because it's easy to use, has lots of options, and it interacts with my Google Account and Blogger!
I like making collages, both by hand and digitally. One thing I've thought of doing is taking a bad picture and working it over in a picture editor until it's cool.
But this one is probably the best.
My problem is that I don't have Photoshop on my computer. I also don't know how to use it. When I use a computer program, I just tend to play around with it. I don't necessarily explore every option. I downloaded a free version of Picasa by Google, and I use that to edit my photos nowadays. I like Picasa because it's easy to use, has lots of options, and it interacts with my Google Account and Blogger!
I like making collages, both by hand and digitally. One thing I've thought of doing is taking a bad picture and working it over in a picture editor until it's cool.
Unfortunately I didn't keep the original picture, but this is pretty close to what it was.
Here's one of the collages I did.
And here's another.
But this one is probably the best.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)