Cotton and Cloud

New Cotton & Cloud Site is Up!

2009-09-24T17:40:00.005+01:00

Long time no see! ;D

Finally I am so super duper happy to announce that my new Cotton & Cloud site is up.
This blog will remain as it is but all the new posts and cook stuff will be on my new site here:

http://cottonandcloud.com/

Please update the address ;D You can access the blog from the main site.

See you over there ;)

Latest Vintage Knitting Acquisition

2009-09-02T13:53:00.000+01:00

A week has already passed? Wow! I can't believe it.
This week has been quite eventful. Testing my new site, training for the charity run, knitting various projects, making custom orders ...
Thank you for those who asked when Furry Friday will be back. It is still on and I have few people in my calender. It will start as soon as the new site is up.
Today (and to prepare for a cool weekend!), I would like to share with you my latest vintage knitting acquisition. I got this pretty baby cardigan and bootie from Wesley's parents' house when they were going through their attic.
I just love the stitches. I think I can recreate it.
This one is my favourite. Apparently this is a vintage ceramic cat yarn container. It is hollow inside where you put the yarn. Can you see a small hole on its mouth? This is where the yarn comes out.
Like this... LOL!
My next post will probably be either the charity run post or the announcement for the new site launch. Hope you guys are all going to have a great weekend!

The Winner is...

2009-08-30T00:28:00.004+01:00

Here are the result for the draw for Pay It Forward giveaway!

First prize goes to:
Roobeedoo

Second to fifth prizes (10 x concealed zips 15cm) go to:
Anne
Andrea
Himiko
Tracy

Congratulations to you all!
Please e-mail blog@cottonandcloud.com and let me know your shipping info. For those who won 2nd to 5th prizes, please let me know which colour of zippers you would like (mixture is fine too :D) which you can see on this post.

Look forward to hearing from you guys! Have a great weekend :D

Success

2009-08-27T00:30:00.002+01:00

Kumo found the biggest spider in our place and he was trying to eat it...
I managed to hold him before his mouth reached this poor (but really gory looking) spider.
The problem was that someone had to do something about him. Capture him? How? Kill him? I couldn't do that.
W suggested hoovering, but I was worried that would either kill him or snap his legs off and he would die in agony. So basically the responsibility to somehow rescue and remove this huge long-legged hairy spider was on me.
For the next hour, I was screaming and jumping around every time the spider moved around. While Wesley was threatening to hoover him if I screamed one more time. But in the end, I managed to capture him in a container and he was successfully released out side. Phew!!!
It was a strange feeling to hate the spider but at the same time to feel happy that he was able to escape.
So, to celebrate, I would like to show you my 80% finished shawl. It is looking gorgeous, I think. This weekend I will block it.
Also, I just wanted to share this photo which I took for the purpose of my new site. Although I decided not to use it in the end, I still think it is super cute. They look like crabs.

Hope you are all having a good week. It's been a mad crazy busy week for me. Sorry if I hadn't visited you. I haven't forgotten about it. I will do my best to pop around you and say hi soon.

FREE GIVEAWAY: Link your favourite online knitting and sewing craft shop!

2009-08-19T23:19:00.003+01:00

It's Friday already! I have had a good week this week. Hope you all did too. The weather has been great, lots of knitting done, kitty cats are happy. How cool is that?

One of the shots for the pattern. It is looking really good :D

My shawl is over 50% done. Basically all I need to do is knit. The pattern is already written. Some of the video tutorials have been filmed. All I need is time to knit. I WILL finish by the end of this month... hmm.

Another shot for the pattern. This is going to be the cable yoke.

The other pattern I am creating is the long-waited Baby Cable Yoke Jacket. This is also nearly done. I just need a nice long weekend with lots of sunshine to take photos and videos. My plan is to finish in September.

So, today's post is all about GIVEAWAYS. Thank you Stephanie from Concerning Pancakes. I have been selected as one of the winners for the Pay It Forward Giveaways. Basically this is to select 5 people to send small gifts to and the 5 winners must in turn send small gifts to 5 people. In my case, it is OPTIONAL for the winners.

Now onto the detail for the giveaways.

PRIZES: I will select 5 winners.

Winner 1 will get this really cute Japanese craft kit. It's a felt card cover. It has everything you need to finish the project.
Winners 2-5 will get... 10 concealed zippers 15cm of the following colours: black, red, beige or brown. They are really great for dress making (e.g. skirts or trousers). Please let me know how many of which colours you would like (any combination is fine).

TO WIN (it's easy!):
Please put a link of your favourite online knitting and sewing craft shop.

DEADLINE:
The entry is now closed. Thank you for your participation!

Cute Japanese craft kit. It is a felt card case.

It contains everything you need to make this (the instruction is in Japanese). Check the plastic card insert!

Red zippersBlack zippers

Brown zippersBeige zippers

Good luck! Have a wonderful weekend!

I Don't Know Why

2009-08-19T22:31:00.003+01:00

... my bed is used as a playground, cat bed and cat fighting ground. I can never really jump onto my own bed for a nap whenever I want because there are either 1) cat sleeping, 2) cat toy lying around, 3) too much washing dumped on it...

So today, I would like to share with you some of the photos of my naughty cats who spends 50% of their time on my bed.

They love playing on the bed since they were kittens.

Cat fights. Kumo (left) is a bigger cat but he is a little clumsy. Wata (right), on the other hand, is a very agile cat, but much smaller.

Friends now...

Everyday I pray for Wata's health as he has been diagnosed that he has a cancer over a year and half ago. Looking at many of the photo of him playing is really quite reassuring. I'll keep praying.

This Friday will be a giveaway post instead of Furry Friday. So don't miss out :D
See you then!

Furry Friday - Jo, Charlie and Bert

2009-08-14T09:25:00.006+01:00

It's furry time everyone!

A door stop from Jo's shop. I love the little detail of things like the handle strap.

I am at home this week (hurray!) so Kumo and Wata are both really excited and wanting me to play with them. Wesley says that they usually sleep until I come back home so I am making a special effort to play with them every day with their favourite toys.
If you have noticed that I have been visiting you guys less, I do sincerely apologize. Definitely nothing personal. I have been working hard on my new website and time is passing like a speed of light. Do please drop a line. I will always reply and visit your blog soon afterwards :D

I have an keeping an eye on this bib. It's super cute and happy. I think this will be one of the baby shower gift that I will include for my sister.

Today is all about Jo from Today We Are... and her cute kitty cats.
Jo can sew (I mean really sew). She makes everything from small sewn items to her own clothes! Just visit her blog. She writes so well (on the banner, it says Today We Are... with something different each time) and I know you will all enjoy her blog.
She also has her own shop called Full of Handmade Things. As you can imagine, you can find lots of handmade things made by Jo. Images I put here are all from her shop. You know that she made the with lots of TLF. They a lovely :D
Jo is also a mother-to-be (congratulations!). The baby will be sorrounded by full of handmade things. How wonderful is that?

It's so pretty! She is the kind of lady who does things properly, even a small item like tissue pokect. I love the way strips ribbons are sewn at the opning. It maked everything so special.

Let me introduce you to:

Charlie, the haughty tortie (3 and a half)

Bert, the black and white moggie (2 years old)

How did you find your Charlie and Bert?
Charlie came from a local osteopath, whose young cat had kittens. She'd given them all away very young (a bit too young really), so that when we went to get Charlie she was the last kitten left, but only 8 weeks old. She's consequently certain she's human.

Bert came from my sister-in-law, who already had four cats, when one of them had a litter. We brought him home when he was nine months old, so he was very well socialised and is very much a cat.

They make an interesting mix.

How would you describe Charlie and Berts' personality?
Charlie is very independent, and definitely knows what she wants, whether that's a treat, the door opened, or me to sit down so she can get on my lap or gravy. She comes to find me to ask me for whatever she needs, and everything has to be on her terms. She's a cautious cat by nature, and can be a bit jumpy (though not in a thunderstorm, and she doesn't mind a bit of water either), so we're careful to introduce new things slowly. She loves to knead her humans, but hates having her tummy rubbed, and likes to be in enclosed spaces.

Bert is a lovable fool, and the most laid back cat I've ever come across. His answer for everything is to roll on his back to get tummy strokes, especially if he knows he's done something naughty, like knock everything off the mantle piece, or rip open the food bag even if there's food in the bowl. He has no idea what he wants really, but loves to come and lie in whatever room I'm in, and opportunistically follows everyone into the kitchen just in case there's any ham going spare. He hates thunder, and a single drop of water is enough to send him running.

What is Charlie and Bert's favourite toy?
For Charlie it's probably cardboard boxes turned on their sides to make a den, or propped up to make a tunnel. Bert goes mad for a squeaky thing on a string, which he can chase for hours.

What do Charlie and Bert eat?
They have Hill's science plan light, because they're pretty much indoor cats aside from the time they spend on the roof terrace. (Bert wouldn't last two minutes if he was an outdoor cat to be honest - he's just not very bright.)

Sooooo tiny! This is when Charlie was a kitten. So lucky to be with Jo. Don't you just love her little button nose? AAAwww.

What is your favorite website for cat (e.g. shop, arts, toys etc.)?
Oh gosh - well I like vetuk.co.uk for food and feliway supplies, and petplanet.co.uk where I recently bought a bed for Charlie that she finally deigned to sleep in, but for laughs it has to be http://icanhascheezburger.com

What do you like most about living with Charlie and Bert?
Whenever I come in from being out (and this includes just putting the rubbish in the bin) Bert comes running to greet me squeaking. He can't miaow, but he tries. And I love hearing Charlie chirrup from somewhere in the house, asking me where I am - we have some lovely conversations, and she's very loving. The house is always welcoming with a cat in it. I also love waking up in the morning - they wait for the alarm to go off, and for us to say good morning to each other and then come onto the bed for a cuddle.

What is the most annoying thing that Charlie and Bert do?
Charlie likes to lie on our clothes. We know this and yet we still lie things on the bed, so really I'm never annoyed at her but myself. I actually think it's quite nice that she likes to be on things that smell of us.

This is my favourite photo. Bert on his tmmy up, holding a bird cushion. Charlie looking cautious. They are great furry pair!

Bert just tries to open food of all descriptions, and get anywhere he's not supposed to be. He does like to barrell Charlie out of the way to get at whatever interesting thing she's looking at, and she's so much smaller than him, and looks so upset it makes me a bit cross with him. He's not really a thinking sort of cat though so it's hard to stay mad at him.

What is the most memorable moment with Charlie and Bert?
For me it would be when we came back from being in Japan for two weeks last year. For four nights when we got back Bert slept on my pillow wrapped around my head, and Charlie slept on my chest. It was very hot but I felt I'd been missed.

Which part of Charlie and Bert's life style do you care most about?
Their mental and physical health. It needs a bit more work since they're indoor cats, so lots of attention and games, and lots of affection.

What has living with Charlie and Bert taught you?
A home isn't a home without a pet in it. I used to think all cats were alike but it's so not true - they have their own personalities, their own wants and needs, and they are definitely capable of giving affection.
Thank you Jo, Charlie and Bert!

Just a quick news, I will most likely be importing my blog into my new site sometime soon (yay!) so I haven't booked anyone for the next post just in case. I will keep you posted on the new Cotton & Cloud in the coming week :D

But... please remember ➜ If you want to participate in Feline Friday (any pets welcome!) please don't hesitate to contact me. I would be delighted to feature you! :D

Have a great weekend everyone! :D (meow!)

Being Motivated

2009-08-11T20:57:00.004+01:00

Me? Running? Oh yes it is true. Some of you already know that I am the last person to do any exercise. But things are different now. Thanks to Mary, who totally convinced me to run, I decided to run 5k for a charity.
I will be running for WWF (the panda charity). I want to raise money for those who work so hard to help and save animals and environment. I want to live on a planet which is beautiful and full of biodiversity. So 5km is a start. I will update on the progress in later post.

Photo taken by Mary: Claire and Me. So happy to meet her for the first time!

Last week, Mary and I visited a book launch for Easy Kids Knits by talented Claire Montgomery at Loop London. A really lovely book full of nice patterns. There are lots of patterns for up to 10 year-old which are often difficult to find. I already have an eye for one of the cable jumper for my niece. I got my book signed (yay!). She has a lovely hand-writing :D

If you are ever in London, Ottolenghi restaurant is a must go place to eat. If I can, I will buy 20 of these tart and eat in one go. I just love this so much.

We then went to Ottolenghi for a "light" (yeah right) meal. The above tart is my favourite (I would say all-time) dessert. It's a passion fruit merange tart. While we were having the dinner, we got a phone call from Loop saying that both of us won a price!!!!! How lucky are we?
On the way back in the underground we couldn't stop but smile :D

I should have taken this shawl the other way round. I designed it so that it looks like rain drops (i.e. line in the middle and rain droplets, then smaller droplets (not knitted yet).

Oh, yes and I have been knitting quite a bit. The above is a shawl which I recently started. Once I block it, you should be able to see the pattern well. Until then it is a little squashed. Long way to go though!

Phew, I am ready for my coffee...
Have a good week and see you on Friday :D

Furry Friday - Sue, Tilli and Meggy

2009-08-06T22:20:00.004+01:00

It was pouring in rain in London. Mary and I went for a book launch this evening and got ourselves totally soaked (more on this later post). We had our umbrellas but they just weren't enough.

Right now, all I need is a good furry story to feel alive once again. It's Furry Time everyone! :D

Today is all about Sue from I Purr-Furr to Craft (with the cutest banner). She is an amazing doll creator. I often visit her blog to see her new dolls. What's more amazing is that she is making 100 dolls for charity for this Christmas! Way to go Sue! ;D

About Sue...
My name is Sue Niven I am 47 years old and loving it. It has taken me a long time to like myself, know who I am and be comfortable in my skin. I love to craft, and I LOVE cats! they rule.
I like all animals even spiders and such and won't kill any of them If any unwanted critters are in the house, I let them be but if the family object I capture them and put them outside.

I love to craft and many a time I do not go outside the house except to check the post box.
My passion is for charity. In the past I have knitted for the Red Cross, crochet and knitted hats and outfits for premmies. For the past 3 years my main outlet is making things to put under the Christmas Wishing Tree in K.Mart. This year I am concentrating on dolls. I am planning on making 100 and currently I am half way there. their picture will be posted on my blog on the 1st of December. The doll pattern I have chosen and have been given permission to do is Jodie Carleton Kinder Kids pattern. My good friend Vikki encouraged me to blog. Here is her site. I have made a few things, usually gifts for friends and things for the challenges at out cloth doll club called ACDA Australian Cloth Doll Association.

Now enough about me, onto my Kitties.
I have two cats. Both from the Cat Protection Society in Greensborough. They are both indoor cats that have their own garden enclosure.

Tilli (2 years old)
Brave Little Maiden. A gorgeous tortoise shell who is happy and loves to play with Sue's son).

The eldest a tortoiseshell with white called Tilli (short for Chantilly named by my daughter and her name means Brave Little Maiden. We have had her since she was 1 years of age and she is now 2 and a half.

The youngest a ginger tabby Meggy (short for Nutmeg) we have had since she was 10 months old, she is now almost 2.

How would you describe Tilli and Meggys' personality?
They have very different personalities, Tilli is LOUD (that is what attracted us to her) and Meggy is so quiet that her voice is barely a croak

What are Tilli and Meggys' favourite toys?
Tillis' favourite toy is the orange ping pong or table tennis balls. She loves to play chase with my eldest boy and hide and seek. Tilli loves to jump and run around. We have plenty of cat play equipment in the house. plus they can jump anywhere and climb anywhere. If the boys do not want the kitties in their room, easy! shut the door!!
Tilli loves the males in the house and me second,

Meggy (2 years old)
Silent "meower" and loves to play feathers with her mum ;D

Meg likes to play a game I call feathers. I have tied a feather to a long shoe lace and she follows it around the house with me pulling it along. Meg is a mummy's girl, follows me everywhere, and sits on my lap when I knit, sew on the machine, or at the computer. She loves to play with my cotton reels and laces and ribbons, and makes it difficult if i want to cut some fabrics so i have to choose my time wisely if some measuring or cutting is involved. Luckily cats like to nap.

What is Tilli and Meggys' favourite food?
Their favourite food is dried cat food. We have tried them with fancy cat tins but they are just not interested.

What do you like most about living with cats?
What I like most about living with cats is everything! They are warm and cuddly, funny, lovely to look at even when they are sleeping I am mesmerised. They do not mind too much when you are busy doing something else and will sit quietly or sleep next to you for when you do have time to give them attention.

What is the most annoying thing that Tilli and Meggy do?
I don't find that they can do anything annoying, I am under their spell. ;)

Thank you Sue, Tilli and Meggy!

Next week's Furry Friday (14/08/09) will be:
Jo from Today we are...

Have a wonderful weekend!

If you want to participate in Feline Friday (any pets welcome!) please don't hesitate to contact me. I would be delighted to feature you! :D

It's a Monda Cat!

2009-08-04T21:21:00.003+01:00

I wanna show you today my new kitty cat. A handmade kitty called Vera from Monda (do you remember Monda? she lives with two furry friends called Mellie and Stevie :D ). She came along with a little bird and flowers. Aren't they absolutely amazing?????? The cards are so cute. I am thinking of who to send to. Really, each item is different. Do please go and visit her sites. You can find more jumper kitty here. If you want excellent monsters, go to her etsy shop here.

It is so beautifully sewn and has this amazing "cat-ness". It's bouncy and soft. I love the button eyes. Just love every bits of it. I am too excited. Thank you Monda! :D

Meanwhile, the real kitties are having a nap... Wata is currently suffering from a small ulcer on his gum. He has increasingly become wary of going to the vet. Today Wata completely got freaked out when a nurse tried to put some gel onto his gum. So we gave up on the gel and decided to put him onto a course of antibiotics (2nd choice treatment). This is him totally relieved to be at home and sleeping on his bed...

Hopefully the medicine will clear his ulcer away... Will update next week :D

Furry Friday - Bonnie, Roxanne, Lou, Frankie, Professor Binks, Moose

2009-07-30T22:12:00.004+01:00

Wow! It's Friday already? How cool is that!
Life is good when there are furry animals around. I have a constant stage acts behind my laptop by Kumo and Wata everyday.
Have you all got a nice plan for the weekend? Actually this weekend is our first one since a while that we have no plan, so our plan is to do nothing but chill :D Can't wait!

Bonnie's cushion covers have style. You send an image of your pet and choose the front colour (in this case blue). They really are good quality and all my friends who visits my place are impressed.

Yep, that's right. Today is all about Bonnie from Handmade by Boni. She creates the most wonderful pet portrait cushion. To do a portrait with felt fabrics it must be hard. But Bonnie makes it look so easy. The quality of her cushions are absolutely amazing. I have a pair for Kumo and Wata and also got one made for my friend's dog too. You can check them here.

They are seriously so nice. She does both dogs and cats. I know Cornish Rex can be difficult to do a portrait (according to my Cornish Rex friend) but I loved the way she did it. Seriously, go and visit her Etsy shop.

About Bonnie
My name is Bonnie and I live in Asheville NC in the mountains. It is a beautiful place. I am an avid gardener, decorator, and a thrift shop junkie. I have 4 almost all grown children, one grandson, and an English husband of 29 years. We are all the proud owners of 3 dogs, and 2 cats. All of my pets have been rescues from animal compassion networks like the Humane Society, Brother Wolf, etc.

Roxanne (left) (8 years old), Lou (right) (2 years old)
Roxanne, the oldest, loves to have fun. When you meet her you will fall in love with her 100% guaranteed.
Lovely Lou. Look at his sleepy eyes! You just have to cuddle him.

My oldest dog is a Lab/Boxer mix named Roxanne. She is 8 years old and is definitely "MY" dog. I had a Chocolate Lab that was 14 years old when she passed and I went to a pet adoption day at a Super Petz store and saw her there. She was beautiful. Almost full grown, about 8 months old, and her tail had been docked. Seeing her tail gone broke my heart. She was very lovable, as all labs are. I didn't take her because I just wasn't sure I was ready to "replace" my other Lab "Chutney". Well, it was a four day holiday weekend and I couldn't stop thinking about her. On Tuesday when the humane society re-opened from the holiday, I went over first thing in the morning to pick her up. Luckily for me, she was still there. When I got home with her, the kids were all still in school and didn't know that I was going to get her. I took her out of the car and her clam demeanor instantly left. She ran in circles at about 60mph for a long
time, and a tear ran down my face thinking "oh no, this is going to be a long 14 years"! Well, it was just nervous energy, she calmed down, but was a mischievous dog. She is around 80 lbs and is one of those dogs that every one falls in love with.

We adopted Lou a year ago in August. He is a shepherd mix. He is tan with dark gray face. He is not too bright but what her lacks in brains he makes up for in heart. He lives to please. It is a shame, he looks frightening, but couldn't be more loving, so most people are a little stand offish from him. He is around 67 lbs. and is a little over 2 years old (we are guessing).

Frankie (2 years old)
Some dogs always manage to retain their "puppy" look. Frankie is definitely one of them.

"Frankie" is our newest addition. around 2 years old, 25 lbs. and a basset/beagle mix. He looks like a black doxie with the little beige eyebrows and feet. He has retained that puppy look in the face so he gets away with murder when he looks at you with those big eyes. He is definitely an alpha dog. He marches around like a drill Sargent.

Professor Binks (10 years old)
Tree cat Binks is a sweet loving kitty cat :D Gorgeous black!

We have an all black cat named "Professor Binks" and he is 10 years old. He was born in a tree in our neighborhood. We adopted him and his sister. They were the first cats I ever owned. Unfortunately we had to have his sister "Snickers" put down because of heart failure.
Binks is quite dog like. Has the same mannerisms and needs like a dog. I am sure it is because we have always had a houseful of dogs.
He is quite needy for a cat.

Moose
Brave and strong Moose enjoys his life. Moose: "yep, I am THE cat. It's hard to keep my fur looking perfect, you know."

Last but not least is our cat named "Moose". He is very independent, typical cat. He is a beautiful longhair grey striped cat. When we adopted him he was a tiny kitten and very sickly. We almost lost him, but as you can guess, he is very much still with us.

What are your animals favourite toys?
All three of my dogs love tennis balls. To them they are the Swiss chocolate of dog world. At any given time there are probably 20 in the back yard and 10 in the house. They also love anything that squeaks. When they hear that sound, they know fun is around the corner. Recently I found some squeaky tennis balls, I thought I was going to have to have them institutionalized.
The cats love bugs and butterflies, and the lids to the milk jugs, they are forever stealing them from the kitchen counter ( which they aren't suppose to be on).

What are their favourite foods?
As far as favorite foods, they only get pet food and biscuits, although if Roxanne see a bag of Twizzlers (licorice) she has been known to sneak a piece or two.

What is your favorite website for pets (e.g. shop, arts, toys etc.)?
My favorite place to shop for my pets is on all the wonderful pet shops at Etsy.com. I love supporting all the small businesses and I always find such unique items. JakeyBB on etsy had the most beautiful beds and leash hooks.

What do you like most about living with your animals?
I love living with animals because of their unconditional love. They love you if you are mad, sad, or bad. You don't find that loyalty any where else. The greeting when you come home is another wonderful perk. If you come home from a rough day, they immediately put you in a great mood.

What is the most annoying thing that your dogs and cats do?
The most annoying thing all my animals do is come to my bed in the morning when they think I have slept long enough and all 5 will jump onto the bed and attack my head to wake me. If I lock them out of my room, they will sit outside the door and meow, bark, growl, and whimper. If any one knows a solution for this I would love to hear it.

What is the most memorable moment with your dogs and cats?
The most memorable moment of all my pet's is the day I adopted them. I can describe every detail of those day's.

I am always concerned that my pets live healthy lives, so that they can be with me as long as possible. I also always want to make sure they always know they are loved, because they always let me know. If there is one thing that I have learned from having pets, it is "forgiveness". They never hold grudges or stay mad. They have set a big example for me in that way.
Adopt a pet, and always remember to spay and neuter!

Thank you Booni, Roxanne, Lou, Frankie, Professor Binks and Moose!

Next week's Feline Friday (7/08/09) will be:
Sue from I Purr-Furr to Craft :D

Have a wonderful weekend!

If you want to participate in Feline Friday (any pets welcome!) please don't hesitate to contact me. I would be delighted to feature you! :D

Double Trouble

2009-07-29T23:59:00.002+01:00

Are you having a good week? You have done more than half of the week. It's almost there. :D
To mark the midweek, I would like to share this rare photo of my cats... They don't usually sleep together (they used to when they were kittens but as they got older, they started to compete for their own places).
Then Kumo started to invade Wata's space...(I knew this was going to happen). Poor Wata, he is always pushed out of his space. The good thing is that Wata is a lot more agile and he can go to places where Kumo can't go.
While watching my silly cats, I started my new knitting project.
Love this organic Shetland lace weight yarn. It is completely absorbing. Random thought comes and go while I was knitting this. One of them was the fact that Japanese are not allowed to have dual citizenship. I wondered what happens if such restrictions were abolished. Which country should I become a citizen?
Oh, I do love knitting.
See you on Friday! It's going to be a wonderful doggy kitty post :D

Furry Friday - Christie and Wylie

2009-07-23T22:35:00.010+01:00

All you ladies and gentlemen, it's the furry time!
This week felt very long so I am very happy that it's Friday. Thank you also for such sweet words for those who commented on the last post. It really gave me lots of energy.
You are probably wondering whose dinky nose this is. Well, today is all about Christie and her softest kitty cat. Christie is an avid crafter who makes these amazing Snggle Beds for pets. Kumo and Wata are looking at these wonderful beds, then very meaningfully look at me. I know they want them each.
They are just the right depth, diameter and have the right curvature for kitty cats, don't they?
Another amazing thing is the colour combination. I think they are made from various fabrics, but Christie is so good at maching the fabrics together. I just love how they look!
Do read on to find out more about Christie and her amazing kitty.

About Christie
My name is Christie and I am make Kitty Snuggle Beds on Photogirl95.etsy.com. I have been around cats all of my life and couldn’t imagine a home with out one. I have one cat who is a Maine Coon Mix. He is my model for my Snuggle Beds and is happy to do it.

Let me introduce you to

Wylie (13 years old)
The sweetest and the best model for Christie's cat bed.

How did you find your Wylie?
I rescued him from Citizens for Humane Action in Columbus, Ohio.

How would you describe Wyliet's personality?
Wylie has a laid back personality around me, but he gets scared easily and hides when company comes over. He is a bit like a dog and comes when I call him and will come and sit on my lap or by my side when I’m on the couch – the perfect lap cat. He can be very vocal and will “talk” to me when he needs something, or just to say hi. He also has the loudest purr of any cat I have ever known.

What is Wylie's favourite toy?
Wylie loves the little mice with the tails. He will bat them around had chew off their tails – even at his age he still plays like a kitten.

Wylie still playing like a kitten - that's a definite indication that he is a happy content kitty cat :D

What is Wylie's favourite food?
He only likes cat food – he has never been interested in any kind of people food. He loves snacking on dry food, but the vet had banned it from his diet. He was diagnosed with diabetes this year and can only eat wet food along with his twice a day insulin injections.

What is your favorite website for pets (e.g. shop, arts, toys etc.)?
I love etsy.com and their artist for all the creative ways to keep our pets spoiled and happy.

You can find lots of great pet products on Etsy like Christie's cat beds. I just love the way Wylie looks so happy in Christie's handmade beds. I know that he is very proud of his mum.

What do you like most about living with a cat?
I love the unconditional love they have for you. It doesn’t matter what you have done, your cat will always be there for you and never judge you for your mistakes.

What is the most annoying thing that Wylie does?
If he is visible when guests are over, he will let them pet him for about a minute then turn and swat them, drawing blood sometimes. I feel so bad because he is such a good cat, I just think that he gets overwhelmed and lashes out.

What is the most memorable moment with Wylie?
I don’t have just one, it seems like everyday he makes me laugh or smile at the goofy things he does.

I totally agree with Christie about cat's goofy acts. I think the more "cool" the cats try to look, the goofier they act every now and then. The best part of living with cats.

Which part of Wylie's life style do you care most about?
Right now it is making him happy and healthy in his senior years.

What has living with a cat taught you?
Always keep yourself clean, be picky about what you eat, give the ones you love a little nudge and a purr, make time to play, and find a nice warm spot to take a cat nap.

How perfect is the cat bed with Wylie? I know Kumo and Wata will totally love them.

Thank you Christie and Wylie!

Next week's Feline Friday (31/07/09) will be:
Bonnie from My Bonnie :D

Have a wonderful weekend!

If you want to participate in Feline Friday (any pets welcome!) please don't hesitate to contact me. I would be delighted to feature you! :D

A Photo to Share

2009-07-22T23:56:00.002+01:00

It's been a mad month yet again especially the past two weeks. We had a wedding for my best friend Maria and a funeral for our beloved relative in the same week. Also helping out at U-handbag as well as doing the work for my new website.
So, I am sorry if I have been visiting you all slightly less than I want to. I am sure by next week I will have more time.
But I thought I will share with you this happy photo of my best friend's wedding last Saturday. I am so honoured to have been her bridesmaid. Fantastic day it was.
Not to worry, I never forget about the kitty cats. :D See you on Friday!

Furry Friday - Judy, Sam, Jello and Dylan

2009-07-16T21:33:00.006+01:00

I am writing this post in the middle of a thunder while eating some blueberries. It may be raining outside, but my heart is full of sunshine because... well, guys, it's the Furry time again! :D

Today is all about Judy from Maccabags and her kitty cats. She is a fun-loving, talented crafter who knits and sew. She has a crafty blog which I love visiting. Most of all, she is such a lovely person. I know you will all enjoy reading Judy's Furry Friday :D

About Judy
I am a Canadian living in the UK. I love to craft – I make handbags, clothes and quilts. I have 3 cats – Sam, Jello and Dylan. The guys, Sam and Jello, are Canadian (and have passports); Dylan is an Essex Girl. Sam is called Sam, because that is what he said his name was – honestly, I picked him up when we met when he was a kitten, and I heard him think “My name is Sam”. There was never any debate. Jello is named (by my daughter) after a rock star, and Dylan – lots of names popped into our heads when we were trying to think what to call her, and Dylan was just kind of where we landed.

Let me introduce you to:

Sam (10 years old)
"Hi, I'm Sam. I am a special alpha male kitty. I flew from Canada to the UK"

Jello (9 years old)
I'm the real furry cat. I have the looks and the voice. Most importantly I love my life.

... and Dylan (3 years old)
I'm the little female furry member of the family. I'm a dainty kitty and I would like to be an entomologist.

How did you find Sam, Jello and Dylan?
Sam, the ginger cat, was rescued from an animal shelter 10 years ago. He was the last of the litter, and almost 3 months old when he was adopted. Perhaps no one chose him because he has an extra toe on each of his front paws, which makes him look as if he is wearing big mittens and has opposable thumbs. I have to say that all those people who walked past him to get to his brothers and sisters have no idea what they ignored – he is the sweetest cat EVER. He knows when any of us is sad – and he sits upon us to show support and won’t leave us alone to be dejected. Once we’ve perked up and he knows we are ok, he’s off! Jello, The White One was purchased from a pet shop in a suburb of Toronto. He is now 9. And Dylan is 3 – the only girl and the only “Brit” in our house; she was a birthday present - a cat from the Isle of Dogs. She was found in a pet store there, although she had been born in Essex).

How would you describe your Sam, Jello and Dylans' personality?
Sam’s the sweet one – he loves everyone. Jello is the quirky one – he does stuff like falls off the bed, runs under the stairs when there’s thunder, and talks A LOT. Dylan? Well, Dylan is such a girl! She’s dainty and pretty and fairly much runs the place ….

What is Sam, Jello and Dylans' favourite toy?
My kitties don’t seem to like toys all that much. Anything with catnip will amuse them for a short time, but that’s it. Dylan plays outside with bugs and moths (and inside with anything I am sewing or knitting), but the other two can only be amused for a little while by toys – they’d much rather be sleeping or exploring.

Dylan studies insects by day and a happy kitty cat who help her mum craft by night.

What is Sam, Jello and Dylans' food?
Mostly Iams, but sometimes Science Diet. They never have table food, and they sometimes get Iam’s soft food – but that’s only as a treat. Sam recently had to go on a diet – he was getting too chubby and the vet was afraid he might develop diabetes. I used to have their food on the floor so that they could have some when they wanted, but now they have a half-hour in the morning and a half-hour in the evening, and that is it – eat or wait for the next time! Because he can’t constantly graze, Sam has lost 2 kilos and is now the pride of the weight-loss brigade at the veterinary clinic – last time we went, he was pronounced in the ideal-weight zone and is now called Skinny McSkinnertons sometimes.

What is your favorite website for cat (e.g. shop, arts, toys etc.)?
I get their collars and tags from an online shop called Kitty Collars although lately I have stopped buying separate tags since Kitty Collars do one which has name and phone number printed directly onto the collar. One less thing to lose! I also love to see the cats that are featured on Cute Overload - always guaranteed to produce an “awwwwww”. And of course I read about Wata and Kumo (and visiting cats) on this blog and keep track of Charlie on Tracy’s blog.

What do you like most about living with Sam, Jello and Dylan?
Everything! I never lose interest in watching and listening to them – Dylan struts and preens like the princess she is; it fascinates me that Sam, the oldest and the alpha male has a little squeak for a meow – and Jello – well, Jello is a never ending source of entertainment because he is such a whack-job! He once got stuck in the engine of a Mercedes van and was covered from head-to-tip-of-tail with engine grease (which was not funny at the time since it is toxic; he had to be shaved). He was most embarrassed until his beautiful snow white coat grew out again and kept trying to hide behind my legs. Also, all my cats like to cuddle, so that is a bonus. Although Dylan cuddles on her terms, not mine!

Jello: "its hard being both handsome and adventurous. Check out my fur. I am having a good fur day"

What is the most annoying thing that Sam, Jello and Dylan do?
Sharpening of claws on furniture – and on the stair carpet – the only carpet I have in my house. Other than that – well, I am probably quite over-indulgent – and they’re quite good kitties, really.

What is the most memorable moment with Sam, Jello and Dylan?
With the boys, getting them off the plane from Canada and seeing them apparently unperturbed about a North Atlantic crossing was quite good, and there’s Jello with the van incident. On the way home from collecting Dylan from the Isle of Dogs, there was a rumble on the tube – two girls got into a hair-pulling fight and had to be put off the train - she was much too young to be watching that sort of behavior! (She seems unscarred, though).

Which part of Sam, Jello and Dylans' life style do you care most about?
I want them to be healthy and happy – they deserve it. I worry most about them being out at night – but usually they co-operate and come in at bedtime.

What has living with Sam, Jello and Dylan taught you?
How much better life is when there’s an animal to care for and who without question loves you back. I am glad that we always had pets in the house when my girls were growing up – they’re animal lovers now and I know that this enriches their lives.

Thank you Judy, Sam, Jello and Dylan!

Next week's Feline Friday (24/07/09) will be:
Christie from CraftSmith's Snuggle Beds :D

Have a wonderful weekend!

If you want to participate in Feline Friday (any pets welcome!) please don't hesitate to contact me. I would be delighted to feature you! :D

Trip to Bournemouth

2009-07-15T09:51:00.004+01:00

It's been a whole year since we travelled to somewhere. Last weekend, we went to Bournemouth. We have been very fortunate with the weather and it was wonderful. I feel totally rejuvenated. Going on a holiday with cats is really fun. It's a lot of work but it's nice to see Kumo and Wata enjoy playing around the room and jumping onto furnitures. I don't have to worry about leaving them alone.
We stopped few times at the service area to let Kumo and Wata stretch their legs. Wata is so used to car travel (although he doesn't like it so much) and chilling on the driver's seat... The seat was warm because of Wesley's bum...
Bournemouth beach. The sea water was too cold for us to swim but it was lovely to sit on the shore.
Wesley is really happy... I hope he also feel rejuvenated after this trip.
:D
We visited Lymington on day 2. This is where you can take a ferry to Isle of Wight. I noticed that seagull in Bournemouth all had black face.
In the hotel room, Kumo is intrigued with his own looks.
Wish I could stay longer. Well, I just have to look forward to the next one :D Hope your week is going well. See you on Friday everyone!

Furry Friday - Holly and Haku, Maka and Pechie

2009-07-09T23:50:00.009+01:00

It's the furry time everyone! :D For those with cloudy weather, hope this will cheer you up. For those with sunny weather, just enjoy!
Today's post is all about Holly from Berrysprite and her excellent love birds. I have never had a bird before so this post has been great for me to know more about living with birds. Reading Holly's Furry Fridays made me realise how amazing love birds are. 100% excellent. Holly has a blog an Etsy shop where you can find the cutest amigurumi (amu means to knit, and nuigurumi means plush toy in Japanese. Hence knitted plush toy is called amigurumi). I personally have a black kitty cat made from Holly and I love it very much :D

I can see Holly's love birds are a huge inspiration for her creativity.
He is the dinkiest and loves tree climbing!

About Holly
Hiya! My name is Holly, I’m 24, and I live in Hawaiʻi. I’ve lived here all my life and I never want to leave. I live in an apartment building, which means traditional pets like a cat or dog were out of the question. Lovebirds are the apartment perfect pet; they are very small and clean there’s no need to walk them, or change a litter box (cleaning up after them is as simple as changing a newspaper, especially if you train them to poo in only one spot). All they need is lots of out-of-cage time and even more love. In fact, in my highly biased opinion, lovebirds are the perfect pet!

Let me introduce you to...

Haku, Maka and Peachie Age: 14

From the left: Haku (yellow), Maka (orange and yellow) and Peachie (pink and yellow).

How did you find Haku, Maka and Peachie?
We used to have three lovebirds; Haku, Maka, and Peachie. I got Haku when I was 9 turning 10 years old, my sister got Maka the year after and my little sister got Peachie the year after. We’ve always said that our family wasn’t complete until we got all of our birds. Although my baby Haku and the little rascal Peachie have since passed on, Maka is still our little bird.

Although his full name is Makaliʻi (which means small eyes in Hawaiian), we usually just call him Maka. We have always had so many nicknames for our babies! We usually refer to them as chickens (spend one hour with a lovebird and you’ll see the resemblance!). Some other nicknames were “Beebee,” “Hen,” “Pea” and “Peahen.” As for Maka, we typically call him Kön (pronounced Cone), or Makön (pronounced May-cone). We don’t know exactly where we got this nickname or the spelling (it doesn’t follow grammatical rules), but Kön responds well to it. Typical usage: “What do you think Kön is doing?” or “The Kön needs more food.”

Haku was sleeping in a fish tank with his brothers and sisters in a mall pet store, Maka was in a cage being picked on by big meanies in a mall pet store, and Peachie was running around a fish tank trying not to be caught in a Kalihi pet store.

How would you describe Haku, Maka and Peachies' personality?
Lovebirds are so personable, I never would have guessed! They are very emotional; they can be stubborn and willful (Haku was known to hold grudges when you didn’t play with him), playful and inquisitive (Peachie was constantly getting into trouble and irritating Haku and Maka with his rambunctiousness) and grumpy (Maka used to be grouchy all the time). They can be happy, sad, friendly, caring, and everything in between! They loved to compete with each other and would often get jealous; if I was petting Haku, Peachie would crawl under my hand, chase Haku out and lie down to get scratched… this would really make Haku mad (he would raise the feathers on his back… just like a cat!) Most of all, all of our birds were so loving!

This photo really makes me smile.
I can so see Peachie wanting to share the piece of the food Maka is eating (and completely enjoying!). :D

What is Haku, Maka and Peachies' favourite toy?
Me

What is Haku, Maka and Peachies' favourite food?
They love fruits, especially strawberries, but they also like junk food! They will go crazy if they even smell peppermint; therefore gum, Peppermint Pattie and candy canes would probably be number one on their personal favorite food lists, if they could write them!
Maka-Millet, Apple, Orange, and Milk, sweet bread.
Peachie- Oat groats, Apple, Bell Pepper, Noodle, Rice, raw hamburger (it’s really bad for lovebirds… but Peachie would try to snag some if he could)
Haku- Oat groats, anything I was eating (including green salad and carrots… so weird!) but he loved soda and raw sugar (also really bad for lovebirds… Haku also tried to snag some if he could)

Their favourite food: Strawberries. But I could not possibly eat such a cute strawberry like this.

What is your favorite website for pets (e.g. shop, arts, toys etc.)?
I actually really like Flickr; it allows you to see people’s most treasured photos of their pets and pet antics!

What do you like most about living with Haku, Maka and Peachie?
I love having someone to say “Hi” to when you come home, who is ALWAYS just as excited about seeing you as you are exited about seeing them. I love feeling their presence, it makes me feel like I’m home; even if I come home late at night and the birds are already put to sleep, they peep and want to come out of their cages to see me. Also, when I sneeze in the middle of the night, all of my birds peep as if to say “Bless you!” even while they’re asleep! So I guess the companionship and the unconditional love are my two favorite things about owning pets.

So cheeky, so playful and so happy.

What is the most annoying thing that Haku, Maka and Peachie do?
When they get grouchy, vindictive or annoyed, they bite you. Haku only bit a little hard, Peachie bit you a little hard and screamed at you while he was doing it (funny, actually) but Maka draws blood on purpose! He hardly bites anyone anymore, but when he does, he really makes us mad!

The cutest guilty look. All pets do this and you just have to love them to bits!

What is the most memorable moment with Haku, Maka and Peachie?
I couldn’t possibly pick only one!

Which part of Haku, Maka and Peachies' life style do you care most about?
I really care that my birds get out of their cages and are free to walk around the house; I even leave their wings unclipped for longer so they have more of their natural mobility. I think the cruelest thing you can do to a bird is to leave him in his cage for his entire life, without ever letting him come out or holding him.

Maka "the life is so good here. I just had a bath!"

What has living with Haku, Maka and Peachie taught you?
Owning a pet has taught me how important it is to pay attention to the signals and emotions of others (humans and animals alike). Anyone who says that animals don’t have feelings or that animal life isn’t worth as much as human life hasn’t really had a pet; animals do have feelings, do form attachments, and can feel pain… In my opinion one of the saddest things in this world is animal cruelty and animal abandonment. Most of all, owning a pet has taught me to be a better and more conscious being in the ecosystem of earth.

Thank you Holly, Haku, Maka and Peachie!

Some of my favorite local Organizations and charities: Hawaiʻi State Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the Hawaiian Humane Society and the Hawaiʻi Food Bank

Next week's Feline Friday (17/07/09) will be:
Judy from Maccabags :D

Have a wonderful weekend!

If you want to participate in Feline Friday (any pets welcome!) please don't hesitate to contact me. I would be delighted to feature you! :D

Featured: Sew Magazine and Daily Etsian! Thank you :D

2009-07-08T13:56:00.003+01:00

Yep, the weather ain't great at the moment. I am thinking that we had all the sun last week and no more. Can you see a very faint rainbow in the photo below?I think the best thing while the weather is really bad is to find out that my items have been featured at various places. My Macaroon Knitted Purse kit was recently featured on Daily Etsian (thanks Hannah!). It's a great blog so do visit and check other beautiful things out.
Also I was totally chuffed when the new Sew-Magazine contacted me that they wanted to feature my Etsy shop. The July issue is now out and here is my part! :D I will be doing a review for this magazine. What I can say is that it is very good and comes with a paper patterns too. Thank you so much for featuring my shop :D
It's been a very slow month regarding knitting. Though, thanks to my monthly knitting meeting with K&S City Girl and Two Hippos, I am half way done with the felix baby cardigan for my sister's baby. At the moment, the baby is in breach position and she has been going to the best acupuncture clinic in Tokyo. Guess where he puts needles for correcting breach for pregnancy!? Calf and thumb...
I think I am off to a nice cuppa. :D Have a good week. See you on Friday!

Furry Friday - Monda and Mellie & Stevie

2009-07-01T19:58:00.009+01:00

Yep, it's the furry time everyone! ;D
Today is all about Monda and her two fun-loving sweet kitty cats. My serendipitous encounter to Monda was about 2 years ago when my sister in Japan bought a cute plush from her on Etsy. I fell in love with her creations and her blog. Today I am honored to interview her for my Furry Friday.

Totally cute and original "Portia the Pink Kitty".
She is a happy content kitty who loves to say hi!

About Monda...
My name is Monda, I am 33, and I live in Berkshire (UK) with my boy (also 33) and my two cats, Mellie and Stevie.
In 1998 I graduated from Cumbria College of Art and Design (now University of Cumbria) with a degree in Design Crafts. I specialised in printed textiles and multimedia textiles. I now work as a Recruitment Manager during the day, and a crafter and maker during evenings and weekends, selling my softies, accessories and cards in my etsy and folksy shops, and at various craft fairs and shows.
I've always had a creative streak in me. Both my parents are creative people - my Dad is a writer and photographer, and my Mum can turn her hand to pretty much anything - she made clothes for me and my siblings when we were younger, she can knit and crochet, and she is a keen quilter. I used to draw a lot as a child, and my parents sometimes despaired at me for always 'cutting up paper'. I was a demon with a pair of scissors!
My ultimate dream is to become a full time designer/business woman and to work alongside my boy, who is not only very clever but also very talented graphic designer.

Talented Monda: Check these cute cards. 100% happiness guaranteed.

Let me introduce you to...

Mellie
Sweet but brave Mellie who loves to stay at home to keep company with Monda. Great whiskers!

and Stevie

An independent social girl who is also brave and full of sweetness. Her paws look like she is wearing mittens!.

How did you find Mellie and Stevie?
We rescued Mellie from a family that were splitting up and moving into 2 separate homes. They couldn't keep their 2 year old Cat (she was called Cocoa at the time). We heard about her from a friend of a friend. Their loss was our gain - we love our little Mellie. Stevie came to us as a kitten from a friend who's cat had a litter of 4. She is now 2, but she's still our little baby.

How would you describe Mellie and Stevie’s personality?
Mellie is quite neurotic - understandable given her background - she was run over as a baby cat, and has a serious amount of metal in one of her legs, then of course she was given away by her family, so she has issues. She always prefers to be indoors, normally sleeping on our bed or sitting on our laps. She is not very sociable with other cats which makes me sad - I wish she had more cat friends.
Stevie is very different - she a laid back independent girl who spends a lot of time outside making friends with all the local cats, male and female. Stevie also had an accident as a baby cat - we think she fell out of a tree, resulting in a broken pelvis - then got severe kidney failure as a result of the pain killing drugs the vet gave her - she has had a tough few first years, but she's a little fighter. Stevie also wags her tail like a dog when she is happy, and she plays fetch like a dog too!
Both of our cats are talkers - you can have a conversation with them and they miaow back at you - it's very funny sometimes.

What is Mellie and Stevie’s favourite toy?
They like the same things. In the house we have laminate flooring, so they like to chase around a crisp packet made into a triangular shape. Outside they have a tennis ball which we kick for them and they pounce and attack it as it rolls past them.

Stevie cooling down in the cold sink. What a great idea!

What is Mellie and Stevie's favourite food?
They both eat all manner of cat food really, and they love the expensive stuff. They don't like the fishy cat foods with the bones in - but they happily eat fresh tuna whenever we have it. Mellie also goes quite crazy when she smells cheese - she smells cheese before it has even come out of the packet, and cries a lot until we give her some.

What is your favorite website for cat (e.g. shop, arts, toys etc.)
www.catsthatlooklikehitler.com It sounds awful but it really isn't offensive honestly - you can't help but smile at some of this cute cats with moustaches, there are some very funny pics on this website!

What do you like most about living with Mellie and Stevie?
They make me smile, everyday. They are funny, full of character and very clever girls. I love them and they love me.

What is the most annoying thing that Mellie and Stevie do?
Mellie sometimes does a wee in the bath - I'm not happy about this, but at least i can wash it away down the plug hole. Stevie can be very naughty - she climbs into all the places she is not supposed to go, but honestly, I can't stay mad with them for long.

What is the most memorable moment with Mellie and Stevie?
Difficult question this one, there are many memorable and funny moments. One recent funny moment was when they were both chasing each other around the house after we had been food shopping - there were bags full of food in the hall way, and they came bounding into the hall way and jumped over each bag in turn like they were horses jumping fences. We really laughed a lot at this.

I'm trying ti figure out what Mellie is looking at. I am guessing that she is concentrating on a crisp packet made into a triangular shape ;)

Which part of Mellie and Stevie's life style do you care most about?
I like my cats to have a mixture of outdoor time and indoor time - a safe and happy home and outdoor environment. Stevie and Mellie have both been through traumas, and we try to compensate for this by giving them plenty of love.

What has having Mellie and Stevie taught you?
That every day holds a bit of joy if you have a cat (or two) in your life!

Thank you Monda, Mellie and Stevie!

Next week's Feline Friday (10/07/09) will be:
Holly from Berrysprite :D

Have a wonderful weekend!

If you want to participate in Feline Friday (any pets welcome!) please don't hesitate to contact me. I would be delighted to feature you! :D

Zen Moment

2009-07-01T16:16:00.004+01:00

It's so hot. I have my fan out in the living room now which helps. It's like killing two birds with one stone: the fan keeps blowing the cat toy across the carpet and Kumo and Wata keep chasing them. This gives them extra daily exercise :D
I have sent off some stamps collected over the year. I would like to thank Lisa from U-handbag for contributing many of them. They are sent off to WWF and they will be able to convert them into money for their funds.
If you have lots of used stamps, here is the address you can send them:

WWF-UK
Panda House, Weyside Park
Godalming, Surrey, GU7 1XR

Now the weather is really good and the sun is out for longer, Wesley and I enjoy our evening walk. It's very soothing. We live only 2 min away from the Thames. Although our part of Thames is not as pretty, I thought this photo was really calming.
Wata is having some zen moment.
Off to have my afternoon cappuccino! :D

Furry Friday - Pili and Cinnamon

2009-06-25T23:59:00.006+01:00

Yes, that's right. It is the furry time! :D Since there are lots of furry friends including cats, Feline Fridays will now be called Furry Fridays. We can now read about everyone's furry friends!
First of all, thank you so much for those who are participating in Furry Fridays. I just cannot wait to feature you guys! Seriously, don't be shy to let me know if you want to take a part in Furry Fridays. This series exist because of you :D

Today is all about Pili from In Love with Handmade and her dinkiest puppy. Pili lives in Spain and works as a nurse. She loves everything handmade, is a total bookworm, music lover and insatiable traveler! She also has a second blog which is about her photography and reviews from shops she loves!

Let me introduce you to...

Cinnamon
5 months old
"Hello everyone! I am the first canine furry friend!"

1. How did you find your Cinnamon?
Cinnamon arrived with my dad, one of his friends's dog had puppies, and he gave one to my dad. When she arrived home she was a bit scared and missing her siblings. But after playing with her and introducing her to the other doggies, she felt right at home! She now has two mums, me and Niebla, one of my dad's older doggies.

2. How would you describe your Cinnamon's personality?
She's a caring, outgoing, lively and VERY energetic dog! She loves getting treats, cuddles and play with me, but she always runs around and then run to play with the dogs!

3. What is your Cinnamon’s favourite toy?
She loves playing around with everything she can find, and now she's very much into chewing, but her favourite toy is a lil soft ball!

Cinnamon: "Look! I have a full control of my floppy ears."

4. What is your Cinnamon's favourite food
Her favourite food is her puppies chow, and ham for a treat! She loves munching on bones too!

5. What is your favorite website for cats / dogs (e.g. shop, arts, toys etc.)
I don't do much searching online for websites... But I got me a custom pillow with Cinnamon's doppleganger as an apliqué from Dingogirl66.etsy.com, and I'm completely in love with it!

Check out the real Cinnamon's happy face looking at Pili! How cute is she!?

6. What do you like most about owning a dog?
The love and dedication that dogs give you! You should see her when she sees you after a while, she comes yelping and jumping and licking you all over!

7. What is the most annoying thing that Cinnamon does?
I don't find it too annoying (actually I think it's amusing, you show see Cinnamon's face!), but my mum does... Cinnamon now has a love for playing around in the plant beds, so a few plants have suffered a few attacks, specially when they're freshly watered! We're trying to teach her that my mum's plants are not a bed... wish us luck!

Oh, I wish I were in Spain! I could chill out in the garden like Cinnamon. Away from the garden plants though of course!

8. What is the most memorable moment with Cinnamon?
Hmmm... She's a lil puppy, only 5 months old, so everything she does now is cute and funny... But I think what I find more memorable is how she decided to sleep on my hoodie the first day we brought her home, apparently she got used to my smell pretty soon, so it was a safe place for her to sleep!

9. Which part of Cinnamon's life style do you care most about?
Since I'm what she considers her safe place, I'm the one in charge of giving her medicines, even the shots the vet recommend, since I'm a nurse.

10. What has owning a dog taught you?
Owning a dog shows you a lot about caring, loyalty and responsibility, and also about enjoying the good things in life! A dog's smile makes you remember how wonderful life is!

Cute little Cinnamon finds Pili the safest place to be :D
I love her cutest dinky looks.

Thank you Pili and Cinnamon!

Next week's Furry Friday (03/07/09) will be:
Monda from Monda Loves... :D

If you want to participate in Feline Friday (any pets welcome!) please don't hesitate to contact me. I would be delighted to feature you! :D

The World of Cotton & Cloud

2009-06-25T00:34:00.003+01:00

Many years ago I read in a scientific magazine (yes very nerdy) that the larger the universe expands the faster the time passes (very simply saying). I think it is kind of true. The time on the world of Cotton & Cloud is ticking ever so fast. Sorry if I hadn't visited you for a while. Once this week is over, I will be able to take more time to say hello to all of your blogs :D
I have recently signed up for the Craft Hope project 3 (thank you for letting us know Two Hippos!). So I started making few booties to donate.
Yep. The good old afternoon tea, one of my favourite way to spend afternoon. The weather has been so nice recently so Wesley and I are making the most out of it :D
... and just wanted to share with you this rare photos of Kumo (left) and Wata (right) I took recently. They rarely sit next to each other like this. I think this is the one for me to frame :D

Feline Friday - Tracy and Charlie

2009-06-18T21:09:00.010+01:00

I came back from work today and the moth was gone! I hope he/she managed to fly away...

This weekend, we have the longest day in the UK. We seem to have many more warm days and I like it. :D

To prepare you with a nice sunny weekend, we have our usual Feline Friday!
Today, it is all about Tracy from Pink Purl and her lovely Charlie.

What do I love about her accessories? The elegance, prettiness, daintiness... well everything!

Tiramisu scarflette made by talented Tracy :D

Tracy is an accessories designer who loves to bead, knit and sew, with two shops on the web at ArtFire and Etsy. I have some of her gorgeous jeweleries which was custom made for me. I love them so much. They really make me look very elegant (I am usually very scruffy BTW!). She is an American now living in Norway with her husband and sweet cat Charlie. I was very interested in how Charlie came into Tracy's life :D Read on!

Let me introduce you to...

Charlie
Almost 9
Tracy took this photo of Charlie the otherday while he was snoozing on his favorite Hello Kitty blankie...Tracy says "he's got a crush on Hello Kitty you know. ;o)"
SO CUTE!

1. How did you find Charlie?
We sort of "inherited" Charlie. When my husband and I moved from the city to a smaller town some years ago, we found our lovely little home. The previous owners were a friendly, mature couple. Sadly, they were moving to a place that did not allow pets, and they had no one willing to take Charlie who was their's. So we gladly took on Charlie and the house. We had been wanting a pet, ideally a cat, after moving anyway, so it seemed a perfect thing--cat comes with the house! And it's been terrific since day one, as if we'd chosen Charlie ourselves.

2. How would you describe Charlie's personality?
He is very lovey-dovey... very affectionate, loves attention and cuddles. He's very much a people person--so loves familiar faces as well as strangers. And he's great with children. He's a joy!

3. What are Charlie's favourite toy?
At the moment he is favoring a new cute blue cat nip-filled mouse we bought him while we were on holiday in the USA. He loves it! Charlie is almost 9 years old, so he doesn't play as much as he used to, but when he does he likes to tear around!

4. What is Charlie's favourite food?
Hill's Prescription Diet Multicare c/d (cat diet)--he especially loves the chicken flavor. We also give him treats of tuna and fresh cooked cod occasionally, but mostly stick to the dry cat diet. After Charlie had a bout with bladder stones a couple years back due to nutrition imbalance in food we bought from the supermarket, it's worth giving this Hill's diet that we get at the vet--he's been great since.

5. What is your favorite website for cats (e.g. shop, arts, toys etc.)
Well, we don't buy a lot of cat supplies and such online, as our vet also has a shop so we get everything there--food, cat litter, toys, etc. as well as his check-ups...so one-stop-shop there. But I love reading blogs and seeing happy cat owners sharing their kitty cat love.

"Charlie this past winter...look at all the snow we had! He's King of the (Snow) Hill"!

6. What do you like most about owning a cat?
Given Charlie's sweet nature, we are blessed that he is a little love and wants cuddles, play time and companionship... He is a lovely companion, just so much fun--he gives us lots of laughs.

7. What is the most annoying thing that Charlie does?
Whenever we're in the kitchen Charlie is always under foot...always mooching for a treat or extra food! Open a tin, he's there. Open the refrigerator, he's there. Open a cupboard, he's there. LOL! It's a wonder he has a tail and feet for us accidently treading on him...

8. What is the most memorable moment with Charlie?
So many memorable moments...every day with Charlie is a gem. But when he had that episode of bladder stones a couple years back, he was really sick and it was a really hard couple of weeks until it all was sorted out, lots of back and forth to the vet...It was really scary, as cats can become dehydrated so quickly. That moment when he'd turned the corner and we knew all would be well, that our Charlie would be ok -- that was the best.

9. Which part of Charlie's life style do you care most about?
My husband and I don't have children, so Charlie is our fur-baby. To be able to care and nurture another human being, or creature is a blessing. That we are giving Charlie the best possible life we can, with great love and attention, is something we treasure daily. And he gives us so much more back. We are a happy cat family!

10. What has living with Charlie taught you?
Love...unconditional love...even more than I thought possible.

Taken last week lounging in the sunshine...working on his tan! ;o)

Thank you Tracy and Charlie!

Next week's Feline Friday (26/06/09) will be:
Pili from In Love with Handmade :D

If you want to participate in Feline Friday (any pets welcome!) please don't hesitate to contact me. I would be delighted to feature you! :D

Phobia & Thank you Tuesday - SewEccentric

2009-06-16T23:36:00.005+01:00

Just really wanted to show you all my first customer's photo of Macaroon Knitted Purse Kit! This is made by SewEccentric. She really made it perfectly. I am so happy! She is a really talented artist. She is on Ravelry and you can see her recent knitted project here. Thank you!
Another thing I want to blog is about my phobia. I have a major phobia towards MOTHS (and some butterflies)... I just cannot even look at any "pretty" pictures in the magazines (e.g. National Geographic). Even if it is just a photo on the paper, I cannot touch it.
Unfortunately, there is one moth in front of my door step right now (right this moment!). I don't want to kill it, but I don't want it to be there.
I will wait until tomorrow (it has actually been there for two days). If it is still there I will have to put a big jar onto it and try to release it (with the help of Wesley). Wish me good luck...
Mittens has been visiting us almost every other day. Against the window Kumo and Mittens tolerate each other. Oh, I wish they were friendly to each other.
Hope you all have a good week!

Feline Friday - Chairman Meow

2009-06-11T00:39:00.006+01:00

Time for Feline Friday everyone! I hope you all had a great week. Ready for a nice weekend? I am :D
I do look forward to posting Feline Fridays. Reading about wonderful stories about people's pets is very heart warming. It gives me energy for the weekend and the week ahead. So thank you all for taking time to answer my questions.

Today is all about a sweet feline family member of Stephanie from Concerning Pancakes of Portland Oregon.

Let me introduce you to...

Chairman Meow
(she's a girl, though)

Chairman Meow is about 2 years old. Just briefly, Chairman has been with Stephanie for about three months now. When Stephanie rescued her she was injured, but currently she is recovering and getting a lot better. I have been passionately following the story of Chairman's recovery on Stephanie's blog. We are all wishing Chairman to get well soon! :D

1. How did you find Chairman?
My husband and I got her at the Oregon Humane Society. They have a really great set up so you can browse through all the available animals online and then go and see them in person. It's really nice because then you can look at animals that will suit your needs, rather than having to wander all over the humane society. (The more time I spend there the more animals I want to bring home with me!)

2. How would you describe Chairman's personality?
Because she has been injured since we got her, I thought maybe it would be hard to tell what kind of personality she would have. But she is very affectionate and really energetic. She likes attention, a lot, especially first thing in the morning.

3. What are Chairman's favourite toy?
The shower curtain. She loves to attack it. She will just wait and watch it and pounce, even if it doesn't move. She also really likes the elastic cord on a pair of my track pants. She will start to attack them if I get anywhere near her when I wear them.

4. What is Chairman's favourite food?
She eats ProPlan for Indoor cats. Since she has been on so many medicines the past three months, I haven't really been able to give her a lot of treats. I'm sure she will get a taste for lots of different treats the longer we have her.

5. What is your favorite website for cats (e.g. shop, arts, toys etc.)
Well, I don't really have a site that I shop at for the Chairman. But I do think there are some cute/funny photos at the website Stuff On My Cat.

6. What do you like most about owning a cat?
Each cat I have ever had has been completely different than the last. The Chairman is such a sweet girl and she loves to get cozy, just like me. So I will bundle up in a blanket on the sofa and she will try to bury herself in the blanket too. It's just really comforting to have a little animal wanting to snuggle up and relax with you.

7. What is the most annoying thing that Chairman does?
First thing in the morning she is a real loud mouth. She will meow for a solid five minutes (even if you're petting her!) the first time she sees us in the morning. It's like we've been gone for years and she's letting us know that she was lonely.

8. What is the most memorable moment with Chairman?
When we found out that the reason her neck wound wouldn't heal was because of the needle stuck in her neck/throat. It was really traumatic for me. I was so sad for her. But it's out now (thank goodness!) and she is doing really well. Hopefully the rest of our memorable moments with the Chairman will be much happier.

9. Which part of Chairman's life style do you care most about?
Her health and comfort. The last few months have been rough for her, so I am determined to make sure that she has a calm and comfortable and healthy life.

10. What has living with Chairman taught you?
Responsibility! We only had the Chairman for about six weeks or so when we found out about the needle in her neck and that the surgery to remove it was going to be really expensive. But my husband and I knew that we couldn't give her up and not take care of it. The moment we brought her home, we had accepted the responsibility of caring for her, so that's what we needed to do.

Chairman Meow is a sweet, affectionate and brave kitty cat. You have all my support :D

Thank you Stephanie and Chairman Meow!

I have been browsing Oregon Humane Society. It really is a good website. Check it out!

Next week's Feline Friday (19/06/09) will be:
Tracy from Pink Purl :D

If you want to participate in Feline Friday (any pets welcome!) please don't hesitate to contact me. I would be delighted to feature you! :D

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Days

2009-06-09T09:00:00.001+01:00

We are half way through 2009. Can you believe it? Last year I made a promise to myself that I will make a clothes for myself. Since I have been totally inspired by Ruth from Two Hippos and Jo from Today We Are for their dress making skills, I have finally copied the pattern on to a paper. This is a BIG step for me :D In July I am hoping to finish it.
The other thing which will be finished by July is my new crochet tote. The above photo is a sneak preview of the bag. It is not quite finished yet. This pattern will have lots of photos (as per usual) and a video tutorial. I really enjoy making the patterns and video tutorials but it's always weird listing to your own recorded voice!
Just wanna show you this tin... (I LOVE this one). I collect vintage tins. They are going to be my new charity projects for this winter in addition to my Charity Purse Making Kits. The details will be given later on this summer.
Also, there is a new bakery in Greenwich called Rhodes. If you are ever around, do visit. Highly recommended. They are the UK's first company to sell coffee in a 100% biodegradable cup and a lid.
Good new is that Mittens now have a pendant attachment on his collar. I believe it has his home address in it (when I tried to check it, he didn't like it and pulled his neck away). I am so relived that he has a home. He still visits us but at least I know he has a home :D

Feline Friday - Peaches and Pepsi

2009-06-05T08:00:00.005+01:00

I hope you all had a good week. We have been very lucky with the weather at the beginning of the week. Now it is a little cooler but it would be nice to chill out at cozy home during the weekend.
This is the third week of Feline Friday. So far, we had Archie, Rosie and Molly. They have done such a fantastic job! I cannot thank you enough.

Today I would like to introduce you two feline family member of Dawn from Crafty Ramblings. Dawn is amazing at making cards. Her blog is full of wonderful handmade cards that she created. I totally recommend you to visit her blog. :D Like all of us, Dawn loves animals. So, today is all about Dawn's kitty cats!

Let me introduce you to...

Peaches

Pepsi

Peaches and Pepsi are sisters. They will be 9 around about October, but their exact dates of birth are unknown.

1. How did you find Peaches and Pepsi?
Via the Cat Protection League

2. How would you describe Peaches and Pepsi's personality?
Pepsi is nervous and a “scaredy cat” for sure, Peaches is confident and loves being in the limelight, she loves her mummy!!!!

3. What are Peaches and Pepsi's favourite toy?
Pepsi doesn’t play too much but they both like a good old fashioned paper bag or cardboard box AND Catnip spray

Pepsi - Content in her bed. I love her sweet expression :D She has a secret attraction towards pancakes.

4. What is Peaches and Pepsi's favourite food
Well they’d prefer to eat human food, cold meat and chicken but they get Hills Science Plan most of the time.

5. What is your favorite website for cats (e.g. shop, arts, toys etc.)
I don’t often visit websites but I love Cat of The Day and I get a regular gift mag called The Cat Gallery.

6. What do you like most about owning a cat?
The fun, cuddles, company, unconditional love.

7. What is the most annoying thing that Peaches and Pepsi do?
Pepsi pulls her fur which is terrible to see, she has such dry skin but the vet has said there is nothing we can put on her to stop it. It could also be stress related so we try to keep her amused and distract her when she starts to pull it.
Peaches has to be by my side 24/7 she now tries to push the laptop off my knee when she gets between it and me!!!

Peaches - Fun loving sweet kitty cat. Also happy in her bed...

8. What is the most memorable moment with Peaches and Pepsi:
Pepsi “stealing” a pancake roll from the side and running under the bed with it!!! Filo pastry everywhere!!!
Peaches broke her leg not long after I got her – I will never forget the day I went to pick her up from the vet. She was sat there with this awful huge plaster practically bigger than her and the look in her eyes was horrendous – I burst into tears….

9. Which part of Peaches and Pepsi's life style do you care most about?
Their happiness and contentedness – They rule me!!!

10. What has living with Peaches and Pepsi taught you?
To love more than ever….

Peaches in the bath... :D

Thank you Dawn, Peaches and Pepsi!

Next week's Feline Friday (12/06/09) will be:
Stephanie from Concerning: Pancakes :D

If you want to participate in Feline Friday (any pets welcome!) please don't hesitate to contact me. I would be delighted to feature you! :D

... and don't forget there is a Fabric Friday at my fabric shop for $3 global flat rate shipping for any fabrics :D

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Reversible Fingerless Glove Pattern - Finally Available!

2009-05-31T11:30:00.005+01:00

We had such a sunny weekend. Kumo and Wata have been enjoying sunbathing every minute of it.
Since I started to sell my reversible fingerless gloves on Etsy last winter, I've had so many requests for the pattern. I am so happy that you all like the gloves and want to make your own!
So here it is. It is NOW AVAILABLE ON MY SHOP (as well as at the end of this post). I have been working really hard to construct the pattern (what is hard is taking good photos, word processing, drawing diagrams and charts and taking video tutorials!). Now the whole package is here for you. Tada!! :D
Yes, it's May and the cold weather is a long way away. BUT this is the time to make nice winter accessories! You can wear them and show them off as soon as you feel cold in the air.
The detailed product specs are all written in the shop but here are the reasons why I totally believe these reversible fingerless gloves are so nice!

WHY SO SPECIAL?
1. Design

I was looking for nice warm, cute and fun reversible fingerless gloves. Though, I couldn't find any so I decided to make one!

2. Satisfying

Grafting knitted fabrics are not the easiest thing to do. My reversible fingerless gloves are mainly knitted with stockinette stitches on purpose: this makes it easier to graft at the end. The last thing you want is a complicated grafting process after spending so much time knitting up a difficult pattern. :D

Introduce yourself to embroidering on a knitted fabric. It provides a wonderful texture and gives such a nice 3D feature to the gloves. 100% satisfaction guaranteed!

3. Practicality

For those who already have my gloves (thanks! :D) they would know this, but they are SO WARM. The gloves are made with two layers so it traps the air in between to keep your hands extra warm.

I deliberately made both the exterior and interior look very different. This means that you can wear both sides depending on what you wear and what you feel like! It's like having two pairs of gloves.

4. The whole package

The hard work is all done for you. There are LOTS of photos, charts, diagrams AND video tutorials to help you make the gloves. All you need to do now is to sit back and enjoy knitting.

Video Tutorial
I hope my previous video tutorials for the Macaroon Purse Kit was useful. I always find it easier to learn knitting by looking at other people do. So although my English is not perfect I created more video tutorials to help you make the gloves!

Video tutorial 1: Thumb gusset increase
Video tutorial 2: Making thumb & embroidery
Video tutorial 3: Finishing & Grafting
Additional video tutorial: Crochet Provisional Cast On and Unraveling Provisional Cast On

Hope you enjoy it and let me know how you get on!

Reversible Fingerless Gloves: $5.00

Currency converter here
File size: 2.7MB

If you have any questions about this pattern, don’t hesitate to contact me. I am here to help!

The pattern is sold as a PDF download. Here are the 3 easy steps to purchase the pattern:
Step 1: Once you click the “add to cart” button, you will be directed to Paypal window (you don’t have to have the Paypal account).
Step 2: Please fill in your payment details.
Step 3: When the transaction completes, a new page with the download link will appear. The time to download will depends on your internet connection (when I tested mine, it look less than a minute).
Please note that the link will expire 72 hours after your first download (or after 3 attempt).

By purchasing this pattern, you agree that the pattern is for personal use only. All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior permission of Kyoko Nakayoshi.

Feline Friday - Molly and Rosie

2009-05-28T00:18:00.002+01:00

Today's Feline Friday is by Sue from Broadstone Designs. Before I start, I would first like to show you her beautiful creations! Sue is an avid crafter. This one is made from my Round Cosmetic Purse kit. It's always nice to see my kits in action. Can you see how well made it? It's perfect! You have really made my day :D
Sue also has an Etsy shop. I think this purse is so pretty. I love the way she used a lovely textured fabric and combined with flower corsage. I can just see myself taking this purse to a lovely party or a posh afternoon tea ;)
Another favourite is this cute kitty coin purse. You can see she is a real cat lover! Cat fabrics are the best ;)
Now onto the main feline subject. Today I would like to introduce you to...

Molly (10 years)

and Rosie (9 months)

1. How did you find your cat?
Molly from a friend who's cat had kittens, Rosie from an animal sanctuary, the Magaret Green Foundation in Dorset.

2. How would you describe your cat’s personality?
Molly loving but grouchy, Rosie playful, knowing and very intelligent.

3. What is your cat’s favourite toy ?
I make their toys out of my scrap fabric and catnip from the garden.

This is Krumble, toy of the month ;). Sue has made this cutest cat toy using her embroidery machine. It's so cute! I think Kumo and Wata would go crazy over Krumble... Lucky Rose and Molly :D

4. What is your cat’s favourite food?
They have always eaten Science diet, they also love Whiskas cat treats. Rosie loves to beg a of anything I am cooking which I sometimes give in to. She loves uncooked fillet steak, but only get a little bit of it!!

5. What is your favourite website for cat (e.g. shop, arts, toys etc.)
Non really, I check out U tube for cat videos now and then.

6. What do you like most about owning a cat?
They are companionable and trusting, they give love when they want to and they are usually intelligent.

7. What is the most annoying thing that your cat does?
They walk in front of me and I am sure they try trip me up, Rosie nips at my nose in the morning about 5.30 as she is hungry and wants to wake me up.

8. What is the most memorable moment with your cat?
When our male cat Stanley was not well they both went over to him and licked his head as if they were trying to kiss him better.

9. Which part of your cat life style do you care most about?
Their health and I like to have more than one cat as they need company when we are at work, we usually have three cats so I feel that we will be visiting the sanctuary again soon.

10. What has owning a cat taught you?
Not sure about this one, responsibility perhaps, as we do not have children they are our "family".

Thank you Sue, Molly and Rosie :D

Next week on Feline Friday, I will be introducing you a feline family member of Dawn from Crafty Ramblings!

If you want to participate in Feline Friday (any pets welcome!) please don't hesitate to contact me. I would be delighted to feature you! :D

... and don't forget my Fabric Friday at my fabric shop for $3 global flat rate shipping for any fabrics :D

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Essential Non-Craft Items for Crafting

2009-05-27T12:25:00.000+01:00

Wow! May is totally flying away. It's my favourite month and I want it to be May forever!!! I hope you all had a really nice bank holiday weekend. Wasn't the weather so nice?

Last Thursday I met with Mary from K&S City Girl and Ruth from Two Hippos at IKnit London for a knitting evening. It was my first time for me to go to any knitting events (can you imagine? - all this time I have been so shy and knitting on my own). I have to say it was SSSoooo enjoyable. It was lovely to meet both Mary and Ruth. I would definitely love to do it again. :D
P.S. You can see our photo from their blog :D (one with the glasses is me. The two pretty ladies are Mary (right) and Ruth (middle) :D )

I am currently knitting a Felix Cardigan from Vintage Baby Knits using Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino 4ply I bought for my own birthday present. It's so lovely and soft. I was chatting with Ruth how the stitches look so neat because the way the yarn is spun. Can't wait to finish it!
I also bought a ball of Rowan Lenpur Linen. I am making a nice crochet bag featuring Marigold (more later ;) )
... and this is my latest machine which Wesley got for me. When I saw the box which was wrapped, I couldn't guess what it was. When I opened it, I was literally screaming with joy :D
Since then I have been making the loveliest cups of cappuccino and am really hoping to try out this iced coconut coffee with banana... (I think this should be made with decaf coffee because I know I will be drinking quite a lot of this) ;D

... and my latest craft essential. My other BD present from my friend - A slow cooker!! She got this for me to save time cooking while I can concentrate on my craft. How sweet is that?! So tonight I prepared these vegetables to make Ratatouille for tomorrow :D
Aaawww, life is very nice. Back to knitting!

Feline Friday - Archie

2009-05-22T00:19:00.002+01:00

Thank you for all your birthday wishes! :D I had a wonderful day on Tuesday. Gosh it has been a mad week for me. I barely had a time to cuddle my kitty cats... :( boo hoo! I will post some photos of my prezzies, but I wanted to let you know that from today I am starting a series of blog posts on Fridays. As you can see it is called Feline Friday - i.e. cats (basically all animals)

The aim is for cat/animal lovers to share their love for cats/animals with other people.
The goal is to enjoy, be happy and to increase awareness of cats in general. Hopefully this would lead other people to understand more about pets and eventually improve quality of life for both human and animals.

The post will consist of 10 questions for cat/dog/pet owners to answer and their photos. With permission, I will translate it in Japanese and post it on my cat blog too. It will be a nice series I think. Like for my Thank You Tuesdays, it may not be every single Fridays but I will try to continue as much as possible.

Today I am proud to introduce you:

Archie (Archibald Slevin-Wilson, when naughty!)

7 years (we think)

Archie lives with Karen (owner) who I used to work for and is a friend of mine. Thanks Karen!

1. How did you find your cat?
Mark contacted the local Cats Protection League to try to find the right cat for us as a surprise for me. When he saw Archie he was perfect - if a bit moody!

2. How would you describe your cat’s personality?
When we first got him he was understandably a bit wary but when he settled in he soon realised we were here for him. He definitely knows his own mind and will only do what he wants, if it fits in with what we want him to do it is a bonus! Now that he trusts us, he is much more openly loving and affectionate (on his terms) and has recently started to curl up and snooze on our laps which is something he categorically refused to do before. He is also playful and likes to play with toy mice, ping pong balls, laser pointers and he goes crazy for catnip.

3. What is your cat’s favourite toy ?
Catnip mousey

4. What is your cat’s favourite food?
Above all else Archie adores fresh prawns. If he knows they are in the fridge he will follow us around the house begging for "just one more" and has been known to jump up into the fridge in search of his greatest desire.

5. What is your favourite website for cat (e.g. shop, arts, toys etc.)
I really like www.kittycatboutique.co.uk they are a small Scottish-based company who make stylish and funky cat safety collars, ID tags & charms. The collars all have quick release fastenings so if your cat gets stuck on a branch etc the collar will release and your cat won't be hurt. Archie has proven to be a master of needing these collars and has had various over the past few years all making him look very handsome.

6. What do you like most about owning a cat?
Coming home from a busy day and he is there, pleased to see me and up for a stroke and a play (as long as the food follows soon after!)

7. What is the most annoying thing that your cat does?
Waking me up in the early hours making that special noise to tell me that there is a really bad hairball coming and it's coming right now on the duvet! Not his fault but his timing is usually not ideal.

8. What is the most memorable moment with your cat?
The first time I saw him at the cats protection cattery, he was very proud and was determined to get to the freedom of the outside world but he was beautiful and I hoped we could take him home with us.

9. Which part of your cat life style do you care most about?
His happiness and ability to feel safe and secure so that he can do all the catty things he wants to.

10. What has owning a cat taught you?
It has taught me that cats can bring so much joy into a house and confirmed that I am cat mad! Cats are so independent but when they do give you their affection you know it is because they want to and they really mean it.

Thank you Karen and Archie :D

Here are the upcoming Feline Friday schedule:
29/05 by Sue from Broadstone Designs
06/05 by Dawn from Crafty Ramblings

If you want to participate in Feline Friday (any pets welcome!) please don't hesitate to contact me. I would be delighted to feature you! :D

... and don't forget there is a Fabric Friday at my fabric shop for $3 global flat rate shipping for any fabrics :D

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Preparation

2009-05-18T00:10:00.000+01:00

Hope you had a great weekend! Wesley and I have been preparing for my birthday on Tuesday by going out to have a nice day out and thinking of what I want for my birthday present :D
Kumo and Wata have also been very active with their new toys (a piece of paper ribbon stuck on a stick). I think they are excited about my birthday.
After lots of requests (thank you so much for those e-mailed me) for the reversible gloves, I am finally got my acts to prepare the pattern. My aim is to finish by the end of this month. I am currently struggling to make a nice graphic chart for the flower embroidery motif, but it will be done. The pattern will be full of photos and there will also be a video tutorial to go with it so hopefully you can all make the gloves with success!
Oh, some fun news :D
I recently participated in a naming competition for the yellow Nightmare Snatcher by Sarah.
and I have been awarded 3rd place for my submission. How exciting is that!? So with my $10 voucher I am so going to get myself a great Nightmare Snatcher ;D I have been having a lot of weird dreams lately so hopefully my new monster can eat them all!
Do please check out her excellent creations at Nightmare Snatchers.

Have a good week!

The Winner is....

2009-05-17T00:06:00.000+01:00

This week has gone so quickly! I suppose it is a good thing. Thank you so much for everyone who has contributed your favourite vintage knitting patterns. :D They were all great! I can't wait to start a project soon.
So, here is the winner of the Japanese baby yarns (3 balls) and a pair of vintage knitting needles.
Congratulations Georgia!

Georgia who said...
....Here is my fav vintage pattern because of how cute it is!! It's fashionable and timeless.
http://www.theretroknittingcompany.co.uk/images/childpattern/wendyP97a.jpg

Please e-mail me to draw@cottonandcloud.com to let me know the detail! ;D

Have a great weekend to you all!

Haiku Festival

2009-05-11T01:39:00.000+01:00

I joined Tracy from PinkPurl and Elizabeth from About New York for Haiku Festival.
Gosh, making haiku is so difficult! It's easy to get the 5-7-5 but what is difficult is to write something creative and beautiful. Anyway, it was really fun to think about few poems and here are mine (N.B. the first one does not contain any seasonal word so it is not quite official)!! :D
本革の (hongawano)
財布を買って(saifuwo katte)
破産する (hasan suru)
Translation: I buy a new leather purse and become bankrupt.
Meaning: Purses are supposed to keep your money to carry around. When you buy a nice purse (especially leather one) you would spend so much money on it that there will be nothing to put in to it (i.e. doing things (often based on greed) without thinking leads to meaningless results / not able to achieve your goal).
春先に (harisakini)
焦って始める (asette hajimeru)
ニッティング (knitting)
Translation: At the beginning of the spring, I hurry and start knitting.
Meaning: At the beginning of the spring, I suddenly have the urge to start knitting something before the cold weather ends (which I don't usually finish until the next season), i.e. people often start doing something last minute when they know there is limited time or chance.

Hope you have fun reading them!

P.S. Don't forget to put your comments on my latest free giveaway!

Vintage Baby Knits - Review, Preview, Giveaway!

2009-05-07T12:51:00.000+01:00

If you are looking for something really special to knit for a baby, or if you love vintage knitting patterns, Vintage Baby Knits by Kristen Rengren is definitely the one for you!
Vintage Baby Knits: More Than 40 Heirloom Patterns from the 1920s to the 1950s (Hardcover): .. a charming collection of more than 40 contemporary updates of timeless baby patterns... Beautiful photographs capture a bevy of adorable babies and toddlers wearing these knitted treasures. Also included are sidebars on baby fashion and knitting culture in this bygone era, and a complete reference section. Destined to be a classic itself, Vintage Baby Knits promises family heirlooms for 21st-century babies.
I think a baby knitting book is very hard to get right because you want the projects to be neither too easy (i.e. boring to knit) nor too difficult (i.e. never finish it / impractical for babies to wear). This Vintage Baby Knits gets every boxes ticked! ✓

I would give a huge congratulations to Kristen for making this gorgeous book. She has a great blog (it's called retroknit) and also twitters. Currently she is on tour for her book. Kristen, please come to the UK! :D

As before, my review is categorized into two sections, about the book and about the projects. Do read on...!

About the book

This is one of those books that you MUST have in your knitting book shelf. It's pretty, lovely, gorgeous and so stylish :D
The last chapter contains lots of excellent resources. There is a section to help you to begin your own collection of vintage patterns (needle, hook sizes, baby measurements, vintage tools and many more resources). Each piece of information is very useful. As much as you will be spending time on the actual patterns, you will be amazed how much information there are in this chapter.
Every single page has colored photos of the cutest babies wearing gorgeous vintage knitted garments or stitch diagrams. It's like a grown-up's picture book. :D
Every project section has a clear title with a nice short introduction about the garment and how it is constructed. This is such a great idea as it would definitely avoid me from getting confused about what I am doing!
The book has good use of fonts and colors. I do have bad eye sight and this really helps!

Gosh, I have so many good things to write about this book, but I will keep it condensed and won't tell everything so that you can really enjoy it yourself ;)

About the projects
Now onto the section that you are most interested in!!

I can guarantee that you would want to knit EVERY SINGLE ONE of the projects in this book. I certainly will.
Knitters of all levels can enjoy it. One thing for sure is that whatever you decide to knit, it will be like eating a whole bar of highest quality chocolate (i.e. you will probably not want to finish knitting it because you enjoy it so much).
There are a wide range of patterns from beautiful vintage cardigans to knitted toys, slippers, poncho, top and pants sets..... It is just fun to spend time to decide which one to knit.

Cutest Ducky Onesie, involving embroidering. You will surprised how easy and fun it is.
My favourite (Felix Cardigan & Pants Set). Try knitting with two colors using a fair isle technique. Check out the neat hemlines of the pants ;)
I love this Liza Sideways Sacque. The garment is knitted in different directions using garter stitches and eyelets. This is such a beautifully detailed design.
Prettiest Horace the Horse! Not only would this be satisfying to knit, it would be a great stash buster. I want to try making it with different colours to make it look retro :D !!

I can just go on and on and on.... so instead of me doing that, please visit here for more pictures and links.

OK, so on to the draw!

Draw Details
Prize: These cutest Japanese baby yarns (3 balls) and a pair of vintage knitting needles (4mm)

Specs: DK, 100% super washed wool, 40g, 110m.
Gauge: 22-23 sts and 30-31 rows over 10cm (4inches) using 4-4.25mm needles.
You can use a chunky-weight knitting machine to knit with this yarn.
It would be enough to make a vest, short sleeve cardigan, bolero (up to about 1-2 years depending on the design) caps and other accessories ♥

To enter, please comment on this particular post by:

Sharing the LINK of your favourite VINTAGE knitting pattern.

Note: If the link is too long, you can e-mail me the link to draw@cottonandcloud.com and post a comment stating "e-mailed" so that I can count the number on the blog post.

Deadline: The winner will be announced on Friday 15th May. (Announcement on 16th May)
Rules (please read carefully):

Only comments with a LINK that we can see will be counted. It can be a Ravelry link for the pattern, link of your blog post to show what you have knitted, a web shop listing of the pattern you have purchased.
The winner must claim their prize within 2 weeks after the announcement. If no one claims the prize, a second winner will be drawn.
I won't be able to notify the winner as Blogger often does not show the e-mail address for me to reply. So do please keep an eye for the announcement. By following my blog, it makes it easier for you to see all my blog updates. ;D
Although I won't be able to reply the comment posted I will read them all (and thank you so much!).

Good luck!

No.1 Lady's Cat Detective Agency

2009-05-06T00:49:00.000+01:00

Firstly, thank you very much for your encouraging comments about my Macaroon Knitted Purse Kits :D You all made my day!
I have recently done a little Typepad Connect on this blog so that I will be able to reply to your comments. Hope it works.

Onto the main subject. I am a part-time cat detective (or more like cat stalker). In January I first notice this black cat playing in our quad.
He must have sensed that I love cats... and gradually he started to wait under our window...
Last week he made his first move to come up to our balcony (check Wata watching the black cat!).
... and he succeeded.

MISTAKE I MADE
I gave him some food on the balcony. I really shouldn't have done it but I couldn't help it....!!!! I am so weak!

PROBLEMS
I don't mind that he keeps coming back (although K & W don't seem to like him) BUT:

He often comes back around 12am at night and meows so much for food and shelter (well, that is what I interpret as he is always waiting right in front of the patio door).
I don't know if he has been vaccinated.

We know he has a collar, so he must have an owner. But basically be is let outside until the owner comes back late at night.
We have written notes twice for the owner to call / e-mail us but no reply.

CONCLUSION
I won't feed him anymore because this might make him tame towards strangers and results in cruelty. I think it is the right decision.
See how it goes...

Macaroon Knitted Purse Kit - Raspberry Sundae and Pistachio

2009-05-02T22:40:00.000+01:00

I have been working really hard on these during April... and they are ready! :D
I thought it would be a great opportunity to introduce a knitted purse kit / pattern as there aren't many available in the market at the moment.
... may be no one has tried?
... may be it looks difficult to make?
... who knows!
They are super duper unique and special. I think anyone who try this kit would totally enjoy it!
The kit can be purchased from my shop and you can read more information about it.

WHY SO SPECIAL?:

It requires combination of both and knitting and sewing skills. It would keep you totally occupied. It is just so fun to make.
You will be knitting with wonderful rustic British Shetland tweed yarn.
The purses are simply so cute!

ABOUT THIS GORGEOUS TWEED YARN:

I am a huge fan of tweed yarns.
They are visually satisfying to knit with lots of specs of colours within one colorway.
Tweed yarns have a wonderful texture when knitted.
OK, they are not the softest yarn available but they make great purses and other accessories because of its texture.

IDEAL FOR:

those who like varieties and challenges (and I know you all are! :D )
those who loves to knit and sew

There are also two video tutorials (here and here) to follow to help you making the purse :D
Hope you like these purses :D
Phew, I am off to enjoy my Bank Holiday weekend! Have a wonderful weekend to you.

P.S. I will be reviewing a gorgeous vintage knitting book sometime next week. I know you will fall in love with it ♥

Make for Charity Purse Kits

2009-04-29T01:19:00.000+01:00

When I am sitting in my room sewing or knitting I live in my own world. But I know there are so many things happening on earth.
Everyday I hear many sad news on the radio or TV. There are so many that I won't specifically mention about it.
As much as I want to live in a castle and have a second home in a beautiful tropical country, I want to positively contribute to the world so that we can all live happily and less suffering. I am not very healthy or energetic, but there must be something I can do.
So I decided to start "Make for Charity" kits on my Etsy shop.
What are "Make for Charity" kits?

They are limited edition kits
The kit has one-off (or more or less one-off) fabrics. This means after it is sold, that is it.
The kit is yours to enjoy :D
A certain proportion of the profit would go to a named charity or charity of your choice (e.g. $5 from multi-purse kit).
An e-mail confirmation of the donation (such as donation number) will be sent to the customer.

Me ♥
You ♥
World ♥♥

The kit will cost just slightly more than the ordinary kits. But I hope some will really love the limited edition fabrics and don't mind paying a little extra for charity.
It was a hard decision to make as the world economy is still upside down. But I believe doing the good thing is non-seasonal if you see what I mean.
The Make for Charity Kits will be listed regularly (but not all in one go) from now on. Do keep checking as some of them are simply one-offs :D

Nice Feline Weekend

2009-04-27T17:54:00.000+01:00

It was such a nice weekend in London. Very sunny and warm indeed.
Kumo especially enjoyed it. He was sunbathing on his favourite spot (i.e. bottom left corner of the bed).
... grooming and dancing...
...what a beautiful day.
I think he is a very happy cat indeed...

The Winner of Weekend Knitting (50 Unique Projects and Ideas) is...

2009-04-25T12:16:00.000+01:00

Thank you for all your comments and the links for the most fabulous knitting projects! I am so inspired by you all and am determined to make something for myself this year :D
Thank you also for patiently waiting for the winner announcement. The total number of the comments were 30.
Typing in the number in random.org produced the number....
The winner is Mary!

Mary said...
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-veil-of-isis
Veil of Isis from BadCat Designs, it is a wonderfully adaptable pattern, I have made a shawl version, a baby blanket version and am seriously considering trying it with a heavier yarn to make a throw.

Congratulations Mary :D
Please e-mail me to draw@cottonandcloud.com to let me know the detail! ;D
Have a great weekend to you all!

Making Bags & Deciding How Much

2009-04-23T23:33:00.000+01:00

It's been a few weeks since I made a bag.
This is one of the custom orders I did recently. Although will not be making this particular bag anymore I thoroughly enjoyed it. ;)
I used the bag bottom from U-handbag... and wrapped it with Thermolan interlining...
Used the Gutterman glue to ensure the interlining is well stuck with the bag bottom...
Also I used bag feet (12mm) for the added specialness...
Very pleased with the outcome. :D

The most difficult thing for me is actual pricing of the item. When I get a custom order I always quote how much it costs and stick with it after the agreement (no matter if I realise that I needed to charge more). This means precise and appropriate prior costing of the item is crucial.
I recently encountered the site called "Etsy Free Calculator". It's really good. Now I don't have to use a calculator for hours! Do check out :D

Don't forget to comment on my previous post for the free knitting book giveaway! The draw is tomorrow (announcement on Saturday).

Thank You Tuesday - Muscari Designs - Multi Purse

2009-04-18T00:20:00.000+01:00

Check out this multi purse from my kit by made lovely Easter from Muscari Designs!
She is a talented crafter who makes gorgeous items (more in detail below ♥). On top of her pretty website (which she designed as well BTW!) she also blogs, tweets and has her Etsy shop.

She makes flowers....
Cutest ring bearer....(I want one for my wedding!)
Flower girl....
..and boutonnieres!
She has been featured in many wedding magazines (way to go Easter ✌). The ring bearer is just so unique and I am totally in love with it. I am sure my best friend who is getting married soon would love it too :D
I highly recommend checking out her sites to see more of her great creations! She will soon be introducing clutch frame purses. I know it will be gorgeous, can't wait ;)

Thank you Easter! You are one great crafter! :D

Weekend Knitting By Melanie Falick - Review, Preview, Giveaway!

2009-04-16T11:31:00.000+01:00

Wanna win a super duper wonderful knitting book? Read on....!

If you are looking for a great knitting book with projects ranging from home accessories, fashion and for babies all-in-one, Weekend Knitting (50 Unique Projects and Ideas) by Melanie Falick is the one for you!
Weekend Knitting (50 Unique Projects and Ideas) brings together unique, innovative, and still-fresh projects for beginning and more-experienced knitters, many of which can be completed in a weekend or less. I am impressed by talented Melanie Falick. I am rarely impressed by knitting books, but this one I just have to applaud. Here are the reasons why:

About the book

The book is well laid out with clear fonts and colors (so you don't need a magnifying glass to read it!).
Every single page has colored photos or stitch diagrams.
It is clearly categorized into three main sections 1) Home and Hearth, 2) Body and Soul and 3) Charm of Children. If you are big on baby knitting, just concentrate on chapter 3, rather than keep flicking to find the pattern.
Every project has a little "note" which helps you with special knitting techniques.
This is not an ordinary knitting book. There is a recipe which will make your knitting weekend really fun and yummy.

About the projects

They are practical, usable and most of all, very cute and you just want to knit them.
Most importantly, the projects are all 100% knittable and you can finish it over the weekend.
All knitters from beginners to more advanced can enjoy them. The patterns all have a little interesting "twist" to their design. You will constantly be surprised.
The projects are designed for all seasons (yes knitting is not just for winter!). You can use the book to make something all year around.

Introduce yourself to circular knitting to make a chenille flannel. It would be so soft on my face...
Who would not want to make these super cute slippers!!!? I want to make it for myself and my friends! :D
Another new technique worth investigating: Brioche knitting. This would be perfect for winter. There is a man's version too!
For all sock knitters and starters! There is a basic pattern and this gorgeous lace sock pattern. There is also cute little pointed-toe booties for babies ;D

I feel like I just ate a whole pack of chocolate. To indulge more, do please see more great pictures from here.

Now, onto the draw to win this book.

The competition is now closed. Please see this post for the winner.

Draw Details

Prize: This fabulous Weekend Knitting (50 unique projects and ideas) by Mealnie Falick. It will be posted to you!
To enter, please comment on this particular post by:

Sharing the LINK of the BEST knitting pattern you have ever knitted.
Tell us why you enjoyed it.

Note: If the link is too long, you can e-mail me the link to draw@cottonandcloud.com and post a comment stating "e-mailed" so that I can count the number on the blog post.

Deadline: The winner will be announced on Friday 24th April.
Rules (please read carefully):

Only comments with a link that we can see what you have knitted will be counted. It can be a Ravelry link for the pattern, link of your blog post to show what you have knitted, a web shop listing of the pattern you have purchased.
The winner must claim their prize within 2 weeks after the announcement. If no one claims the prize, a second winner will be drawn.
I won't be able to notify the winner as Blogger often does not show the e-mail address for me to reply. So do please keep an eye for the announcement. By following my blog, it makes it easier for you to see all my blog updates. ;D
Although I won't be able to reply the comment posted I will read them all (and thank you so much!). Currently I am planning to find a way to reply to all your comments.

Good luck!

Easter Fun

2009-04-13T11:24:00.000+01:00

Hope you are all having / had a great Easter weekend! Wesley and I had a really good one :D
My best friend Maria and her fiancee Jan came over on Saturday. She baked yummy scones and brownies which we ate. We walked to the O2 (formerly known as the Millennium Dome) to see the Star Wars exhibition.... We saw Chewbacca taken away....
Last year, I found an odd parsley plant growing in the bush on the way to the O2 (photo below is taken then). We were wondering if it is still there....
... and there is!!!!! ;D I was so happy to say hello to this odd parsley. He has grown bigger!
The thing was that my digital camera ran out of battery because I kept taking silly photos of parsley and other things... and I could not take a photo of my favourite Ewoks!
Craft wise, it has been very active. I have been making more cosmetic purses with tweed and felted fabrics with crochet flowers on them. It is very satisfying (and at the same time scary) to knit something yourself and felt it!! But I am very please with the outcome.
Also the cosmetic purse kit has been selected for the Gift Guide for new mothers on Etsy (thank you!)
Happy Easter everyone!

Thank You Tuesday - Berlinababe - Fallen Leaf Scarflette

2009-04-07T23:01:00.000+01:00

Today I would like to thank Berlinababe for charting my Fallen Leaf Scarflette pattern.
I first created the Fallen Leaf Scarflette to make a small shawl for my Etsy. I then realised that it is a great pattern to use odd balls of Rowan Kidsilk Haze so I decided to sell the pattern. At the time I didn't know how to make a knitting chart on a computer so the pattern was written in words.
The pattern has been a great success but one thing was missing... a charted pattern. Thanks to Berlinababe, who so cleverly charted the pattern, the missing piece of the puzzle has been found!
Now, all I need to do is to combine the PDFs which I will need to figure out. Once it is done I will announce it again (especially for those who previously ordered the pattern (thank you so much!).
Berlinababe is on Ravelry. She is an avid and a great knitter who also blogs. She has recently posted a free knitting pattern for this cute Wee Duckies. Perfect for Easter! You can stuff chocolate in him for a nice handmade gift ♥ I really would like to give it a go :D
Thank you Berlinababe. You are a star!

My Aztec Moment

2009-04-06T02:16:00.000+01:00

I know I should just knit. But since my last chilli and chocolate crisps, I just cannot stop thinking about the combination. Some of you who commented on the post mentioned about Aztec chocolate drink. I googled for a recipe and I got these ingredients.
I must admit that I do remember going to the Cadbury's world chocolate factory when I was 14 in school. The brochure from the factory, which we needed to do our geography project, mentioned something about Aztecs drinking chocolate. At the time I could not speak English so I really don't remember anything else other than being given a chocolate sample to eat.

Anyway, I made a nice hot chocolate and devided into three. I added mild chilli powder into 1/3 of the hot chocolate (the rest just in case this experiment goes totally wrong).
More than my fear, my curiosity made me drink the concoction.
...
......
It tasted like a savour soup. More like funky pumpkin soup.
I don't think I was one of the Aztecs in my previous life.
Kumo now really thinks I am wasting his time. Hope you all had a great weekend!

Thank you... Thursday - Cats, Needlework and Unfinished...

2009-04-02T17:40:00.000+01:00

Thanks to the fact that there is a day other than Tuesday that starts from a letter "T".

Today, I would like to thank my Japanese blog friend, Samuel, from Cats, Needlework and Unfinished. Just about a month ago, she held a free giveaway competition and I won her beautiful patchwork bag!
When the bag arrived all the way from Japan, I was truly impressed. Her craftsmanship is impeccable. The bag is so beautifully made with lovely leather handles. It is perfect for me to put my little knitting projects. Thank you so much ;) I love it ♥

She has a webshop called Nonohana (meaning wild flowers) where you can buy cat toys with organic catnip and cotton drawstring pouches. All the fabrics have cat patterns on them. Yes, like me, she is a cat lover! She also makes semi-custom order cat beds. Do please check out her portfolio!. I want one!

These are the cat toys I bought for Kumo and Wata from Nonohana. The triangular toy has a little bell inside it (with the organic catnip). The long cat 'kicker' also has catnip too...
Immediately Kumo comes to sniff it...(making sure that I am taking the photo of him)
He decides that he wants the kicker and Wata takes the triangular toy...
Kumo is no longer controllable...
...They love the toys... check out Wata with his tongue!
They still play with them.
Thank you so much Samuel for such a wonderful gifts from Japan!

Getting Better

2009-04-01T23:35:00.000+01:00

Thank you for your such a kind word from the last post. It really made me feel so supported and I am finally recovering. I feel alive again! Honestly I was so ill that I thought I would never get better. The last time I was seriously ill was in 2006 according to my med record. I guess I did well for 2 years without flu.
It has been nearly a week since I went outside. W took me to the ecology park behind our flat for a fresh air and feed the bird as usual. Today there was a new face... Mr Squirrel. He was brave and was standing right next to me when I was feeding the bird (obviously used to humans).
Cute... I thought. Then I remembered reading our community newsletter about "squirrel attack" in the park.
Not cute anymore....
So I threw a piece of bread away so that he would go and fetch it (so that I can run away!).
...Then this big black bird ate it!!!
The angry squirrel climbed onto the tree where the bird was...
... and nearly got him!
What a drama! All I could think was how to remove angry squirrel on my head should he attack me. It was good that the attention was re-directed to this bird.
Anyway, I have been behind my craft schedule. I must first finish off my customers' orders. Thank you for being so patient with me. I will do a good job! ;)
I also wanted to show you my newest creations. It is on my Etsy shop at the moment.
It is knitted with British Shetland yarn. It is wonderfully textured, solid and so cute! I am planning to produce a pattern for this purse. Hopefully it will be done soon.

Flu

2009-03-29T23:36:00.001+01:00

...is going around, and I have got it. It is a really nasty one. Sorry if I haven't been visiting you guys. Just to let you know that I am totally resting in bed. Hopefully I will get better soon. Thank you for those visiting me and wondering why I have disappeared for a bit.

Thank You Tuesday - Leafgreen Handmade

2009-03-24T12:53:00.000Z

I have been quite ill for the past few days. It is not the chilli and chocolate crisps (honest!). So I have been resting in my cozy bed with two happy kitty cats who are taking this opportunity to cuddle with me as much as possible.

Talking about chilli and chocolate (still), some of you mentioned about the aztec chocolate drink (you guys are so cool! ;). now I really would like to find out the recipe for the Aztec chilli and chocolate drink (the real mccoy). Does anyone know? Do I just put some chilli into a hot chocolate (sounds really dangerous!)? I must google as well.

Today, I would like to thank Leafgree Handmade who made a candy stripe crochet purse and the round cosmetic purse from my kit. She is an avid and talented crafter who can both knit and sew!
Look at the purses! She made them so well ;)
She is a blogger and also has her Etsy shop where she sells beautiful hand knitted and sewn items.
I love this pouch bag (above) which is a combination of knitted and woven fabrics. I think it is very original. Also check this beautiful cable scarflette. It comes with matching handwarmers. I am a big-time knitter so I know this gorgeous thick cable will keep your neck nice and cozy from cold weather ;D
Thank you so much. You are one talented lady!

Chilli and Chocolate Crisps

2009-03-22T00:45:00.000Z

Recently for some reason I am hungry all the time. Usually we keep a packet of baby popadums (lentil based and suitable for vegans) as an emergency snack but it has long gone. The other day, while walking along my local supermarket I could not help but to go down the "potato crisps" alley..... and I found this...Chilli and chocolate crisps??? Sounds really weird!
Out of curiosity, I bought it. It took a while for me to gather my courage to open the packet.
I wasn't sure what to expect, but they looked ordinary... and I ate it.
It tasted something I have never really tasted before. It did taste like crsips and it had texture like crisps but I could also taste sweet chilli and coco powder.... This was as weird as when I ate "garlic ice cream" years ago. Not sure if I would vote for this flavour...
Meanwhile...Kumo thought we were really silly.
Hope you all have a great weekend! ;)

Thank You Tuesday - Crochet Purse Kit

2009-03-17T09:22:00.000Z

There are so many people all over the world I would like to thank. Since the last post of my Thank you Tuesday I decided I will reserve any posts on Tuesdays to thank people. It gives me an opportunity to appreciate them as well as for others to know how fantastic they are! I truly believe I could not do what I am doing without people especially you guys! :D
Today, I would like to dedicate my Thank you Tuesday for Teresap who made the crochet purse from my kit. She made it perfectly! Look at the photo :D Isn't is just so cute?
She has a beautiful blog called Give Pearls Away and Rubies full of knitting posts and wonderful photos! I love her glass needles and yarns on her main banner of the blog. It is definitely worth a visit. Thank you TeresaP, you are a star! :D
As for my kitty cats, Wata is feeling a little "off" at the moment. He just finished eating his favourite treats and having a nap. Hopefully he will be better soon.
Hope you all have a great week!

Designer Knitting Magazine

2009-03-11T23:43:00.000Z

I bought Designer Knitting Magazine (formerly known as Vogue knitting) this week when my friend and I popped into Loop in Islington. Some may already own this magazine as it is for Winter 2008/9.
At first I was a little unsure about the cover of the magazine (yellow is not my best color), but flicking few pages...
I immediately fell in love with these gloves...
It is made by 3 balls of Rowan Scottish Tweed DK.
I might be able to use discontinued Rowan Yorkshire Tweed DK I have in my stash...
I love this jacket too. It is knitted with Twinkle by Wenlan/Classic Elite Yarns Soft Chunky. I am not sure if this yarn is available in the UK... :(
It looks easy but the pattern structure is really interesting and unexpected. I think it is worth a try!
... and this is my other favorite! I have been thinking of making a thick home cable socks. Made with Patons Classic Wool.
Sigh.... no time for the wicked I suppose. I must admit I have so many UFO (unfinished objects) which needs to be sorted asap.
The lesson I have learnt is not to be fooled by the cover page of the magazine. This Designer Knitting Magazine is full of great patterns!!

Free Pattern - Toe Up Ginkgo Socks

2009-03-07T21:28:00.000Z

I have finally finished my Gingko Socks which I started in January. I really love the finish and it is keeping my feet warm and comfortable.
I loved using the hand-dyed yarn from Yarn Yard. As soon as I saw a skein of this yarn it reminded me of the Ginkgo leaves.
It is a toe-up socks using short-row knitting technique. The heel turn is also knitted the same way as the toe. It is my favorite technique for sock knitting because the resulting toe and heel is neat.
I used 2.75mm dpn and hand-dyed yarn from Yarn Yard (I couldn't see the same colorway but don't worry there are lots of beautiful colors available!). The total st number is 52 sts which made a small - medium pair of sock (foot and ankle circumference of 21cm). The ginkgo leaf motif is a repeat of 13 sts so to make a larger socks it is better to use larger needles and thicker yarn e.g. 3.25-4mm rather than increase st number.
... for more information and the pattern, here is the link to the pattern (977KB to download)! Enjoy :DGingko Sock Pattern

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Crafts & Hobbies How-To Guides & DIY free pattern

New Generation of Etsy? Free listing and seller fees - Art is on fire!

2009-03-05T18:49:00.000Z

I started selling my handmade stuff on Etsy since the beginning of 2006. It's been great but I have gone through peaks and troughs.

Recently I heard about ArtFire. I think this is going to be the new generation of Etsy. Just to tell you the most important things first....

FREE listing fee
FREE selling fee
Unlimited number of items to list
10 photos PER item
Really easy to use listing process (especially the photo which I will explain a bit later)

Most importantly...

ONLY $7 per month for the above for the first 5000 people signed up (usually $20)
If you refer 10 people to sign up, EVERYTHING is FREE FOREVER!
The basic membership is free, but you can only list up to 10 items at one time.

I have signed up and I am already really impressed. After selling on Etsy for nearly 3 years, using ArtFire was a real breaths of fresh air!

Artfire is similar to Etsy but I can see that many things which Etsy were lacking they have improved on it. I have briefly written my perspecitve on Artfire. Hopefully this is helpful.

No listing or sale fees!
No listing fee, no commission fee on sale on Artfire. On etsy it is 20 cent listing fee plus 3.5% sale fee. This will prevent you from paying so much fees during the high sale season such as Christmas. So far I have listed 5 items and everything was free. yippeee!

Be Noticed!
All new items listed will appear on the front page of ArtFire. I think this is a lot fairer than Etsy. Being on the front page of Etsy is like a winning a lottery. If you have limited budget and couldn't pay $7.50-$15 for showcases to advertise items, it would be so hard to get your items noticed. On Etsy some people are always on the front page and others has never been on it.
It is not like that on ArtFire, because all the new items listed will be on the front page.

So Easy to Use
It is difficult to change from one system to the other. I experienced that with DaWanda. I was honestly and pleasantly surprised how easy it is to use Artfire. I love the fact that everything you need to do to list your item can be done on one screen. You can upload multiple photos at once (i.e. not have to wait for one photo to finish uploading).
Other settings such as bio, profile, shop policies etc. are all done in the same manner.

Great For Your Customers
Your customers don't have to open an account with Artfire to buy your things. (c.f. etsy). You can link your Artfire shop and anyone can purchase your items. This is helpful and would potentially attract more customers who don't want to open account unnecessarily.

Monthly Fee
It's free to register for the basic account. If you want to list as many items as you want, the only thing you will pay is the monthly fee. That is fair enough considering everything else is free. Currently it is $7 for the first 5000 people who signed up (It will be $20 per month after). My Etsy fees (listing and sold) cost around $30-40 per month. So I am already saving a lot of money. No matter what.

BE QUICK!!!
There are only a little more than 1000 place left for this great offer. You can always sign up to the free account, but don't leave it too long as you could miss this great opportunity!

If you decide to sign up, please list me (sewknitting) as the referrer. Here’s my direct link:

Good luck!

Great Knitting Links!

2009-03-04T12:50:00.000Z

IT and knitting seem to go quite well. Starting from Ravelry, there are many many great knitting sites out there.
Here are 5 my very favourite knitting links. They are really useful and hope you like them!

1. Tatao - Both Japanese and English. Comprehensive information about knitting in general. There are lots of projects you can knit, tutorials, international needle conversions, software. A MUST CHECK.

2. The Brioche Stitch - There is no other site for brioche stitches as detailed as this one. I love this site. I have learnt so much about different brioche stitches and techniques. You will love it too.

3. TECHknitting - A blog about all the knitting techniques. I don't know how she does the illustrations but they are really good. Very useful.

4. Purlbee - From Purlsoho. There are lots and lots of beautiful and fun projects (both knitting and sewing) you can do. I LOVE this tulip socks!!!! Gosh, I wish I were living in either the US or Canada. I could knit all day with Koigu yarns!

5. Knittinghelp.com - Many great knitting tips and help videos. They are also on twitter. I am following them now.

While I am busy knitting and sewing, my sister sent me this photo of my niece with newly made crochet cape. Isn't she beautiful?

Thank You Tuesday - Crochet Purse Kit - Customer Appreciation Photo

2009-03-03T10:53:00.000Z

This is a lovely photo of the finished crochet purse made by one of my customers using my kit. Isn't it beautifully made? It's so wonderful to know that the kit is enjoyed by my customers. Apparently she could finish it in the same afternoon the packet arrived!
Thank you, I am so happy!! :D

The kit is available from here. Between 2nd and 9th March, you also have a chance to win my kit from U-Handblog.

Kit for Multi Purse - The Curse of the Were-Rabbit

2009-02-25T22:12:00.001Z

Following on from the candy crochet purse kit, I am really excited to introduce my new purse kits from my Etsy shop.
I have been making these multi frame purse for a while now and I thought it would be great to make them into a kit. I have loads of lovely Japanese fabrics and I am hoping that this will give many of you a fantastic opportunity to try them out! :D
Right now, Wesley and I are trying to do lots of fun activities cheaply. The other day we made pizza base. I am completely hopeless at cooking so my kitchen is not well equipped with lots of kitchen gear...
The only bowl I had was too small for such a large quantity of dough...(I did follow the recipe.. honest!). Wesley totally enjoyed taking another opportunity to take frustration on the current economic crisis out by punching the dough.

Kumo, on the other hand, decided that he would like to be a vegetarian. May be his previous life was a rabbit.... which leads to this video. If you love cats and rabbits, this is the one to see. This rabbit is a brave one!

And the winner is...

2009-02-23T19:15:00.000Z

Wow! Thank you so much everyone for valuable comments about the the glove pattern / kits. They were all insightful and encouraging and I cannot say thank you enough.
Majority preferred (c) both a kit and a pdf pattern, but skewed towards (b) the pdf pattern and having kits as gifts or a good way to try out new yarns. Many many wonderful suggestions. Thank you so much!

I prepared the draw and asked Wesley to pick one for me...and the winner is...
Caseykoester!! Congratulations!
So what now...? Well, two felines at home who did not win the purse - and they did try to bribe me with purring- are asking me for some attention. My camera lens will not last if Wata keeps touching it like this!
Kumo obviously wanted to win the purse... Don't worry, there will be more chance next time!
Thank you again for all your comments :D

Addicted to...

2009-02-19T21:41:00.000Z

Thank you Esther from Hetty's Happy Days for the blog award! This is an award for me to tell you 5 things I am addicted to and pass on to 5 other bloggers. You can see some of the things I am already addicted to... and here are 5 more things I am addicted to!

Crochet
Reading Japanese novels
Baers Camembert with Truffle Butter from Waitrose
Fudges' biscuits
Everything from Clippers and Malagasy beverages and chocolates, respectively

You can see I am hungry now!
As before, please visit 5 blogs from my favorites (on the left column). I want to nominate everyone as they are all fantastic!
I have been quite busy organising my new pattern and kit (now on sale from my shop). Now I have accomplished my target, I am onto a new crochet project (on top of my few hundreds knitting projects).
Also, thank you for many kind words and wishes to many about my lovely Wata (above and below). He is doing very well (just eaten his favourite food and currently chilling on his bed).
Wata learnt to get my attention by tapping me on my shoulder, face, head etc. when he was a kitten. While I was tring to take some photo of him, he decided to tap the camera...
Gosh, the week is passing so quickly. I must organise myself a bit!

Organic Cable Slit Glove & Cupsleeve and a FREE GIVEAWAY (ENDED)

2009-02-15T20:59:00.001Z

In the morning, I finished off my new glove...
...and a matching cup sleeve.
I used organic yarns. Really pleased with the way the cable motif floats along the hand...
.. and I would like to hold a free giveaway competition!

If I were to pattern this glove and cupsleeve, would you like it to be a
(a) kit
(b) pdf pattern only
(c) both

Please leave your answer in the comment of this post by Sunday 22nd Feb. I will select one person randomly and will announce in later blog. The winning person will receive...
... a multi-purse! Please make sure there is a link to your blog or something so that I can contact you should you win!!! How exciting!
In the afternoon Wesley and I walked to Greenwich Market and tested my newly made cup sleeve. The coffee somehow tasted better!　
Hope you all had a great weekend!

Feelings of Cats - Wanna show off your cats to Japanese cat lovers?

2009-02-11T00:34:00.000Z

Thank you so much for your kind comments on the lace. It has been very encouraging. I now have the design of the middle part and is being knitted at the moment (≈ 3" done ☺).

Before I get into the main subject, please check this beautiful creation by lovely Mia from manOmine. It's so cute!

In January, I entered a competition to become one of the contributing authors for the official blog for a great Japanese cat magazine called "neko no kimochi" (literally translating as "feelings of Cats") which starts from this March.
...and I WON!!! (I must say this is the first ever thing that I won for anything).

I love cats so you can imagine I am very excited about it ✌.
The details will be sent to me a little later on from them but the aim is for me to increase the welfare of cats in general through better understanding of cats' lives and issues around the world.

Japanese people are really interested in how cats live / looked after in the UK and the rest of the world. They want to know what sort of cat activities are held and what sort of things are commercially available... etc. etc.
I have already interviewed Kumo. My appointment to Wata is tomorrow.

If you want to show off your cats to Japanese cat enthusiasts,
If you know some great cat stories,
If you have cool cat stuff (toys, plates, beds, anything!),
Anything cat-related,

that you want to share with Japanese audiences please let me know (e-mail me through my contact)! Feel free to contact me if you have any questions too☺.

I am having my in-laws tomorrow...I must hoover!!!

Since the Snow

2009-02-06T18:40:00.000Z

We are really into feeding birds at our local ecology park at the moment. I am hoping that this does not skew their ecosystem...
There is always one or two who'd rather stay on the shore (not worth getting cold and be involved in bird fight). We make sure they get some food too ☺
Wesley is getting his frustration on the current global economic crises out by destroying our snowman who is now melting...
Kumo on the other hand recently found our hairdryer pouch was just the right size for his body...(don't ask me why the hair drier pouch is on the floor of the entrance hall).
... and I have been knitting lace since the snow. This is a trimming which I have spent literally several days to work out (especially the curved part). I want to make a nice big rectangular lacy shawl (and it will be patterned too).
Although I will sell the pattern for this, I just wanted to share with you the portion of the pattern for the trimming (it won't do any harm! ☺).

Enjoy!

Effect of Snow on Animals

2009-02-02T23:03:00.000Z

It's been so cold, so wintery and so lovely!! Lots of snow in London ☃ !
This is what snow does to adults...
Making a really ugly snowman at 10.30pm... I was forced to stop knitting and go outside to help Wesley making it.
This is what snow does to my cats...
Make their neck long...☺
Will be a lot more knitting in the next post! Thank you for visiting this blog and viewing the scarf pattern. I have been very encouraged by many visitors.
I hope you all have a good week ahead! ✌

Hungry Birds

2009-01-28T17:22:00.000Z

It's nice to do something different every now and then. W and I went to Hyde Park and walked around last weekend. The weather was beautiful.
We took some bread to feed the birds... One of the birds (with red arrow) was particularly hungry.... He didn't waste time approaching W who had a bag of bread..... and he took the biggest piece (look at the poor fellow friend who didn't get the bread)..
I was so intrigued to see that the greedy bird then took the big piece of bread to the water and soaked it to make it soft for him to eat! He is a smart bird!
Well, it was so nice to do something different for a change.

Thank you Jo from Daisychain Designs for tagging me :D As usual, here is the rule!

Link to the person who tagged you - DONE
Post the rules on your blog - DONE
Write six random things about yourself
Tag six people at the end of your post and link to them
Let each person know they've been tagged

6 random things about me - here we go:
1. I now can write Hebrew letters.
2. Kumo and Wata are my very first cats of my own.
3. I am not very good at cooking.....
4. I used to love playing with LEGO
5. Mary Poppins was my childhood inspiration.
6. I cannot eat raw tomatoes but I can when they are cooked.

I must say that my list of favourite blogs are growing long. I am so happy to find many inspirational and talented crafters and knitters around the world. So this time I will not tag but instead would like you to all check out the great blogs which you can find on the left hand column.

Off to make some pies... last time I failed to bake the puff pastry (it was a ready rolled one too!!!). So this time, I will succeed...

Free Pattern - Extra Warm Men's Scarf (Women can definitely wear it!)

2009-01-26T19:23:00.001Z

I made this scarf for Wesley's BD present last December. It's thick, warm and luxury and keeping him warm during the cold season, and I thought I would share the pattern with you. I used diagonal knot stitch from The Harmony Guides Vol. 2 for the main part and few rows of single ribbing with tubular cast on / off.
And below is the link for the PDF! :D

Extra Warm Men Scarf

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Crafts & Hobbies How-To Guides & DIY free men

Hope you enjoy the pattern.

Great Start of the Chinese New Year

2009-01-25T17:29:00.000Z

Thank you Mary from K&S City Girl for giving me the award for the blog! I have previously been tagged to write about 7 things about me but this is my first time for receiving an award. It is very exciting!
As usual, there are some rules that I must follow (it is not at all compulsory by the way - I like doing it because it's a great excuse to keep the blogging active!) and here they are:

1) Put the award on your blog - DONE

2) Put a link on your blog of the blogger who gave you the award - DONE

3) Nominate 5 other bloggers - I must say I LOVE everyone's blogs. They are all inspirational and that is why I am blogging right now. I had hard time choosing but here are the five bloogers:

Pink Purl
A great blogger who creates beautiful things (jewelry, knitting, sewing) and sells on Etsy. You will all love her writing!
Maccabags
Another fabulous crafter. She makes wonderful bags, pouches, home soft furnishings. She also knits and is a food connoisseur :D
Octopi Crafts
A sweet blogger who makes wonderful amigurumis. Lots of happy posts. She recently opened her Etsy shop too.
Hetty's Happy Days
Great knitter who makes wonderful socks. She is also my Ravelry friend and has lots of patterns!
In Love with Handmade
Her blog is full of Etsy item reviews, a very good thorough one. Not just photos! Great blog!

4) Leave a comment on their blog notifying them - On its way :D
5) List 5 things that I'm addicted - Easy!

1. Knitting
2. Cats
3. Rich Tea
4. Gloves
5. Socks

Happy Chinese New Year!

Tutorial: Tubular Cast Off for Single Ribbing

2009-01-23T12:50:00.000Z

I have free patterns to release soon (yay!) but before I do so, I must make sure I write about a tutorial for tubular cast off for single ribbing using darning needle. Ordinary binding off is just as sufficient but I find tubular cast off really useful because it allows the rib edges to be elastic. So this method is perfect for glove cuffs, socks, neck ribbing.
For two-stranded tubular cast on for single ribbing, please refer here.
For two-stranded tubular cast on and off for double ribbing, please refer here.

I decided not to do the video tutorial for this one because I think it is much clearer to show in diagrams. Anyway, here is how to cast off single ribbing using tubular method - apologies for strange English if there are any... English is not my first language and I always find it difficult to describe things well.

Step 1: Follow the working yarn shaded in green. Insert needle into 1st and 2nd stitches as below:
Step 2: Insert into 1st stitch from the front. Remove 1st stitch from knitting needle. Insert into 3rd stitch from the front having 2nd stitch in front as below:
Step 3: Insert into 2nd stitch from the front. Remove 2nd stitch from knitting needle. Then insert into 4th stitches from behind having 3rd stitch at the back as below:
Step 4: Insert into 3rd stitches from behind. Remove from the knitting needle. Then into the 5th stitches from the front having 4th stitch in front as below:Repeat steps 3 and 4 until the last 2 sts.
Step 5:
.. and my beautiful Wata who loves to sit next to me is doing very well. Have a great weekend to you all! :D

Reversible Mittens

2009-01-21T15:49:00.000Z

I have finally finished a pair of reversible mittens for my mum. It was meant to be for Christmas gift...
It is now wrapped and posted on its way to Japan! Hurray! I really wanted to embroider Fuchsia because she loves the flowers but as it turned out to be too difficult for me to do, I decided to stick with what I know - dahlia (well, kind of)
The reverse is a nice stripes with deep green and various pinks. She might say that it is too colourful for her but why not? I love the way the stripes turned out. I might make a vest with the same pattern next time.
Hopefully her hands will be kept warm with these! :D
... and Kumo just wants to say hello!

Casting On for Socks

2009-01-16T21:17:00.000Z

I have been so inspired by many sock-knitting bloggers since the end of 2008 (my recent witness of sock knitting bloggers are Hetty's Happy Days and Roobeedoo). I am happy to announce that I have finally casted-on for my first socks for 2009! It's not finished so I can't show you the top part (you can see a shadow of dpn on the photo below...)

Needle: 2.75mm dpn (I am using Brittany dpn because they are much shorter than other dpn so really good for knitting socks and glove fingers)
Yarn: Sock yarn from Yarn Yard (I am not sure if you can get the same colorway, but don't worry they have lots of great colors!!)
Pattern: My own

The pattern is taken from The Harmony Guide knitting stitch book. I have modified it a little to add some eyelets, because I wanted the pattern to look like layers of Ginkgo leaves.

Sort of..?

I love knitting from the toe using short-row technique because it is neat and later I can adjust the length later.

Heel turn..
I have recently decided that I will knit max of two things at a time (usually I have about 4 on-going). So this will be completed hopefully next week rather than next year (even, next decade)...

While I am busy knitting, Kumo is completely in love with Tempur pillow....

V&A Hand Knitted Cotton Lace Dress for Children

2009-01-11T19:49:00.000Z

This weekend I visited V&A. I have been there over 10 years ago but since I missed Kaffe Fassett's exhibition few years back, I always wanted to go there again. Unfortunately there weren't many knitting collections on display. Furthermore, the textile room closed earlier than usual so we could not see as many items as we hoped. :(
BUT, I saw this most beautiful hand-knitted children's cotton lace dress in the British textile room. Isn't it soooo wonderful? (photo taking was allowed in this room :) lucky me!)I just can't believe it is hand-knitted. The thread is as thin as normal sewing machine thread. I spent a good few minutes just admiring it. I am wondering how long it took to complete it... I really don't want to think about it. I bet it took ages!
The pattern is the same as Print O' the Wave Stole from See Eunny Knit!..I think.
Side panels... I love the stitches.
Zooming in..I really tried to recreate the pattern but I do not have the right concentration this weekend so I gave up. May be one day I can figure out. Has anyone seen a pattern like this before?
My very favourite is this lace edging. I have seen many before but not this one!
On the way back in Waitrose I bought MangaJo's green tea and goji berry drink to quench my thirst. It was very refreshing. Highly recommended.
It was snowing a little on Saturday but apparently it will be warmer in London. Is it the end of winter? I must get on with my knitting!

Sock Knitting Machine

2009-01-07T14:13:00.000Z

I have so much to write this month!
Maria's fiancee Jan gave her an antiqe sock knitting machine. So we decided to visit her and see what it is like. Actually, I have seen some in the book and at Wool Fest in Lake District, but this is the first time that I see it working so close. There seem to be lots of people addicted to sock knitting. If you use "sock knitting machine" and Google search you can see many interesting sites.
This machine can knit up to 4ply thickness yarn. I think Maria is using the standard 4ply sock yarn.
It doesn't come with the table. So this machine is screwed onto the work top of Jan. I love this machine! It is so exciting :D

I took this video with Maria using the machine. You can see how it works. The sock is coming from the bottom.

I think I will get a pair of socks for my Christmas gift this year. :D

Tutorial - Spiral Knitting for Hexagon and Octagon

2009-01-04T11:14:00.000Z

I often see this shape (or at least this spiral structure) on circular shawls and beret. Now I think about it, I saw a featured article of shawls using the technique in 2007/8 VK magazine.
Anyway, I was reading one of my favourite books and it turned out that knitting hexagon is really easy. I then went on to make octagon (which was not in the book but after hexagon it was easy to work out).
I have deliberately blocked the knitted piece into polygons for this post but when the piece gets bigger it will eventually be a circle.

You will need:

double-pointed needles (dpn) - you would need 4 needles for hexagon (3 working needle plus 1) and 5 needles (4 working needles plus 1).

Preparation: CO 6 sts (for hexagon) or 8 sts (for octagon).
Row 1: Onto each 3 needles (or 4 needles if octagon), work yo, k1, yo, k1. 12 (16) sts.
Row 2 and every alternate rows: k.
For hexagon, you will be working in triangle (photo below)..
and square for octagon (photo below)...Row 3: yo, k2, yo, k2 on each needle.
Row 5: yo, k3, yo, k3 on each needle.

Continue in this way increasing at the beginning and middle of each needle.
When you have knitted to the size you want, CO.
Pin the corner of the piece to block.
Leave to cool.... Remove pins and you have polygons!

A Very Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T11:23:00.000Z

I hope you all had a great year end and the New Year! We had a very busy one meeting friends and families (no time for crafting...). The highlight was a family gathering at Novellino in Golders Green. It was wonderful to meet W's relatives and I am so happy to be a part of his family :D
We decided to have a quiet New Year's Eve though. We treated ourselves with nice food (some we had to eat by the 31st to clear out the fridge...!). One Japanese tradition I wanted to keep was the "big clean up (ou-souji 大掃除) before the eve (ou-misoka 大晦日), so I am glad I did that, because the flat really needed a big time tidy up.
Also a huge thanks to W's mum who gave Kumo and Wata this great toy from the US.
They absolutely love it..
Back to crafting (hurray!). I made this beret for myself (you might notice that there is a pattern for this you can purchase). This beret has been highly used and I am planning to make another one for myself.
More reversible fingerless gloves for my etsy shop (will be listed in mid Jan - more colors and other styles)! :D
And lastly...for my Japanese visitors (thank you so much! ありがとうございます！) I decided to blog in Japanese properly.
日本からの皆様、新年あけましておめでとうございます。いつも私の（とりとめも無い）ブログを読んでくださってどうもありがとうございます。私の日本語は恥ずかしいほどめちゃくちゃですがこれから日本の皆様にもロンドンからの編み物を楽しんでもらえるように新しく日本語でブログを始めます。内容は同じ英語のブログと同じになると思います。がんばりますので２００９年も何卒よろしくお願いいたします。
Next post will be how to knit hexagons and octagons - my first tutorial of the year!

So this is Christmas...

2008-12-19T22:21:00.000Z

I can't get over how quickly this year went. Many things happened craft-wise and I enjoyed every minute of it... and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone (that is you who is reading my blog! :D ) for supports, encouragements and inspirations throughout the year. I couldn't have done it without you.
W and I are not doing much during this holiday except spending time with families. There is no plan for the New Year so I might try to make some Japanese Osechi New Year's meal....
There are quite few Christmas knitting I completed and would love to post on this blog but just in case any of my friends and family see them I will post after Christmas (I promise).
Anyway....Have a good one!

Lion Heart

2008-12-14T21:24:00.000Z

Wesley told me I have to see this video. This often happens so I didn't really take it seriously. I knitted for 10 minutes and then watched it.... it was incredible. So I decided to post it in time for Christmas.

It is regrettable to say that the Harrods pet department has increased in its size recently. There are still kittens and puppies for sale... My heart was torn apart when I saw a frightened Main Coon kitten in a glass cage. It's even worse in Japan but I will not mention it.
I am still trying to work out how I could make a positive contribution to end cruelty. At least I have two cats who are incredibly loved. I hope that the money I have been donating to various charity is used wisely.

Last year I have collected many stamps and donated to WWF to save elephants. So I will do the same this year (I collected a bag full since January).

Also, apologies to everybody if I haven't been visiting or replying as often and speedily..I have been running back and forth trying to do various things for Christmas. To make matters worse, I had food poisoning last Friday eating some dodgy food... I am better now though! :D

I hope all your Christmas crafting is going well!

WeMake London Christmas

2008-12-06T23:33:00.000Z

This is why I usually avoid going into central London during Christmas period....
But it was totally worth it today. We visited WeMake London Craft Fair in Tottenham Court Road....
... to support and say hello to Mary from K & S City Girl. Mary and her best friend Grace had a table called Scrublicious selling gorgeous and the yummiest cakes and sweets.
Seriously, I have never had such nice cupcakes, carrot cakes, cheese cakes and chocolate cakes (yes W and I ate them all) for SUUUCH a long time. I mean, look at these yummy things!
My favourite was the "gree ten cup cake". Have you eaten green tea ice cream before? Well, it was like that but a in a cup cake!!! I am so happy. Well done Grace and Mary. You guys are totally genius! Afterwards, I bought some handmade truffles to take tomorrow for family visit. I bet they will love them.
I have to say, there were lots of really good crafters there. I was impressed with all of them. I bought a hand embroidered T-shirts from My Mums a Hippie for my sister's BD present.

I have now finished with my Christmas gifts for friends and family, so I am not going back to the sea of people again for a while.

Sometime this month, some of my knitting patterns are going to be on sale as a pdf download. I am still working on them but hopefully sometime soon...

Back to my old craft crib...