Monster Knit Rally

Thursday, December 14, 2006

Mail goodies

I recently went from working extremely part-time to a bit more than full-time, and suddenly all my computer time disappeared. I uploaded these photos a while ago, but am only now getting around to writing this post.
I received a second package from my Secret Pal! I opened the box, and then I just kept unwrapping package after package. She sent so much stuff, and it was so well presented, including one skein of yarn in a Chinese food carton (unused of course). Thanks again, SP!

Here are a few of my favorite things: yarn in colors I would never pick out for myself, but that are absolutely lovely (and lovely together). I can't wait to find a project for them!

Delicious chai tea and honey straws, and a nice mild-scented soap I'll actually use! Plus, my pal remembered that I love Burt's Bees products and sent their hand salve which smells so good. She even packed some of it in a little box that I've already put to use holding some of my knitting notions.
One of my other favorite items was this felted bag pattern. I'm not sure I would have anywhere to wear this evening bag, but I'm tempted to make it anyway, just because it looks so neat.
I've also gotten some wonderful Chanukah presents this week, which I'll try to post photos of soon. (Thanks mom and dad and Mr. Cool!)

Sunday, December 03, 2006

Japanese Craft Books: Post 3

See my first two Japanese craft book posts here and here.
This book is aptly titled General merchandise made from wire by Yoshiko Morinaga. The ISBN is 4-309-28020-X.
I very much like the simplicity of the designs in this book. Some of my favorites are the hanging planters, a fruit bowl,

and this pencil cup.
The instructions include many photographs and diagrams, and I'm betting if you've ever used a pair of pliers, these projects should be fairly simple. Note to self: must get pliers and wire ASAP. Vice grips don't count.

You can look forward to my final Japanese craft book post later this week. I've saved the best for last! Actually, I love them all equally, which is why I couldn't bring myself to leave the bookstore with less than four books. Sheesh.

Friday, December 01, 2006

Thrift Thursday, um I mean Friday

I've been feeling a bit stressed about money recently, so last week I decided to treat myself by spending some money. I know that makes no sense, but sometimes that's how it works. I was pretty frugal though. I got 10 pieces of clothing for $14: three skirts,
five shirts,
and one fabulous little jacket!
That collar is real rabbit fur, which weirds me out a little. I would never buy fur new, but I'm justifying this purchase by saying it's OK because it's used. I also saw and coveted a number of cute little jackets when I was in NYC, and thought this was more in my price range at $4, than, for example, the little jacket I saw in a shop priced at $1950.

I also got a striped sheet for $3, part of which has become mini curtains for the bedroom. Not sure what else to make from it, but I do like how cheerful and bright the fabric is.
The last few days' weather has proved that winter has arrived. So I made some window snakes out of a thrifted flannel pillowcase. It's hard to tell in this photo, but the pattern is little sheep munching away among some flowers.
These cut down on the draft a little, but I'm thinking I may have to make giant ones to cover all of the windows in their entirety before winter is over. Ah, the joys of cheap apartment living.