Jus Shar Designs

Rocket Betty Winter Giveaway

2011-12-02T17:05:00.000-06:00

Winter Giveaway! - 2 FREE Tees - Ends 12/3/11
.by Rocket Betty Designs on Wednesday, November 30, 2011 at 10:18am.Two lucky Rocket Betty followers will win a Rocket Betty Tee of their choice! (Girlie XS-XL or Mens/Unisex S-XXL)

Having a Black Friday / Cyber Monday Sale!

2011-11-19T22:35:00.013-06:00

The NC Triange Etsy team is getting together to have a Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale. The following participants are:

1. Beth of JusShar is offering 10% off all purchases, AND free shipping within the US. Check out the 30+ handknit and crochet hats, scarves, and mittens in her shop. You can find Beth on Facebook and Twitter.

2. Sarah and Rachel of Addapopofcolor is offering 15% off, and free shipping on all items after the first of the month. They would like to highlight the following items from their shop: turquoise Tree of Life pendant necklace, the Red and Green Christmas earrings, and the Dark Purple Weave Belt.

3. Pagan of Villainous Vixen is offering 15% off with code SANDYCLAWS until Dec. 10th. She is highlighting her jewelry as they "make awesome presents :)". You can also find Pagan on Facebook and Twitter.

4. Kirsten of Flowerthyme is offering free shipping on all orders through December 1st (within the continental US). Coupon code: HOLIDAYSPECIAL. She would like to highlight her Tangerine Grey bouquet, as well as her Coffee and Green bouquet. You can also find her on Facebook.

5. Abby of Honeypot Vintage is offering 20% off any purchase. Check out her dresses to find that special something to wear this holiday season. You can also find Abby on Facebook and Twitter.

6. Michelle of thegiftgarden is offering Free Shipping on all purchases. Coupon code for free shipping - FreeShip. Also, buy two and get a third 50% off (including cutom orders/requests). These Sewn Fabric Coasters-Set of 4 make a super last-minute gift. Stock up for the hostess of all those holiday parties you'll be attending. You can also find her on Facebook and Twitter.

7. Erin of Ramble On Craft can be contacted about after-Thanksgiving-discounts. Check out her Snowflake Card Set while you are there. You can also find her on Facebook.

8. Theresa of HooksandEyes is offering Free domestic shipping - Coupon code - coupon for free shipping is THANKS2011. You can also find Theresa on Facebook.

9. Beverly and Lee of RusticFurnishings are offering 10% of all sales, and would like to highlight their decorative boxes and step stools as great gift ideas. You can also find them on Facebook.

10. Theresa of Ouida's Trunk is offering Free domestic shipping: TRI10 (code). Check out her vintage fabrics and trims while you are checking out her shop. You can also find her on Facebook.

11. Val of DesignedByVal is offering free US Shipping. PLUS, the Featured Item of Day is 30% off, and she is having a sitewide sale - 20% off from Black Friday through Cyber Monday! You can find Val on Facebook and Twitter.

12. Rebecca of afternoonowldesigns is offering 20% off any item. I suggest you check out her infinity scarves. You can also find her on Facebook and Twitter.

13. Jill & Sheri of Orange Cat Art are offering 10% off all sales with coupon code HOLIDAY2011, Friday through Monday. They would like to highlight their popular NC Seasons desk calendar, and the fact that any of their photos can be printed in any size - just ask! You can find them on Facebook and Twitter.

Daphne Nicole giveaway

2011-07-21T00:49:00.003-05:00

I am so happy I stumbled upon this blog! The photos are absolute eye candy, I tell you.

And then I discovered she's having a giveaway for this little number:

Spring is in the air, and Easter is coming!

2011-03-30T11:16:00.003-05:00

I've always loved Easter. It's when my sister and I got new dresses and shoes for Easter service at church, and we got LOADED Easter baskets....jelly beans, chocolate bunnies, peeps (I actually liked them when I was a kid - ick), and the best meal ever....ham with a homemade carrot cake with cream cheese icing. And probably one of the best parts of the day is that our Grammie Frankie would be there with us. I miss that woman SO much.

What are your memories of Easter as a kid? What are your favorite parts of it now that you are grown? I'd love to hear my blog reader's stories!

After you are done sharing, please check out these fun and festive Easter/spring crafts!

Bunny Finger Puppets
Bunny Egg Cozy
Origami Rabbit
Bunny Pencil Case
Bunny Bowling
Amigurumi Easter Bunny
Bunny Cupcake Wrappers
Wet-Felted Chick
Paper-craft Chick and Easter Egg
Fuzzy Easter Chicks and Mini Easter Eggs
Love bird tutorial
Printable Easter Chick Papercraft
Wet felted Chick
Crepe Paper Spring Birds
Sew an Easter Chick

For more tutorials, visit this website.

Easy Birdhouse Tutorial

2011-02-25T19:22:00.002-06:00

What a great project to try this weekend! It won't be long before birds will looking for somewhere to make their nests and lay their eggs.

Vintage Easter Crafts

2011-02-25T16:23:00.004-06:00

Vintage Valentine

2011-01-12T14:25:00.004-06:00

Make the Valentines and decorations,

and then have the party!

New Facebook Landing Page

2010-12-25T23:43:00.002-06:00

Handknit Mittens for the entire family....

2010-12-09T12:48:00.001-06:00

I wiggle my left hand,
I wiggle my right,
inside of my mittens,
so warm and so tight.

I wiggle my pinkie.
I wiggle my thumb,
so when I make snowballs,
my hands don't get numb.

Inexpensive AND clever

2010-12-06T10:17:00.003-06:00

Check out this tutorial on Brassy Apple's blog:

This one is meant for cards, but I can think of lots of other uses for it!
Very clever, and inexpensive - yet, it looks like you spent big money on it.

My Hanukkah Favorites

2010-11-26T18:37:00.003-06:00

Vintage Christmas Trees

2010-11-26T18:15:00.001-06:00

Make your own vintage Christmas Trees

Vintage Christmas - Decor

2010-11-20T16:07:00.001-06:00

Click on a graphic to view it larger.

See the previous posts:
Christmas Cards,
Christmas cookies

Share this post with others...

Snuggle up with a toasty sweater

2010-10-20T15:57:00.002-05:00

Victorian Bling

2010-10-11T11:09:00.003-05:00

Replaced with this Etsy Mini....

I would love to own any of these...check them out.

2 knit + 2 crochet = 4 WIPs

2010-09-24T13:11:00.007-05:00

Like a lot knitters and/or crocheters, I have many projects going on at the same time. In more than one room, even. The following are beside my recliner in the living room. This is what I do (besides homework) to keep myself busy while watching TV.
This photo is of the tablecloth I just started last night. I have a HUGE bag of rayon crochet thread. The bag is one of those clear, plastic bags that they sell king size comforters in.

At any rate, this bag of rayon thread has been in my possesion for quite a few years. I finally decided something must be done with it. There are pale blues, mint greens, pale pinks, lilacs, and variegateds. I'm planning a huge granny square tablecloth. I think it'll end up very delicate and pretty.

This is a sz 2 toddler girl fairisle sweater. It calls for hearts in the design, but I'm really not a huge heart intarsia fan. Still debating as I work along as to whether I'll include them or not. This will be listed on ArtFire when I'm done with it.

This triangle shawl in-the-making is from recycled cotton sweater yarn. This, too, will be listed on ArtFire when I'm done with it.

Lastly, this is a ripple blanket in lilac, pale blue, and medium pink. I think it could end up being about a twin size when I'm done with it. Haven't decided whether or not to keep it, or list it on ArtFire too.

Share this post if you enjoyed it.

Swearing in ceremony

2010-09-22T11:21:00.003-05:00

UPDATE: New Favorites post just listed.

To honor my oldest son who is joining the Army, I created this Etsy mini.
If you like it, please share it! Thank you.

Make the holidays special - yourself

2010-09-19T14:15:00.003-05:00

**** This feature has been replaced with a new feature ****

Quick and Easy Double Crochet Afghan

2010-09-07T10:50:00.006-05:00

I had other plans for all this green yarn...a sweater.

It wasn't working up quick enough for me, so I decided to take this project in a different direction. A quickie crocheted afghan.

As you can see by the size of this hook (1/2" in diameter), this is going along quickly....how I like it.

I'm working with all worsted weight acrylics, and only using yarns from my current yarn stash. I'm sure I have more greens if I go look. And I may need to before I'm done.

Quickie instructions:
* Any worsted weight (#4 weight) yarn (double-stranded throughout)
* 650mm/ 1/2" diameter) crochet hook (there was no decimal point I might add)
* Chain as many as you like for your needs, and proceed to double crochet for desired length.

UPDATE: 9/9/10 and the afghan is done! The finished measurements are 40"x70". This is a great way to use up remnant/stash yarns, and easy enough for last minute gifts (think upcoming holidays).

And here it is on the back of the sofa, joining the other afghans I've made.

BTS, Crochet, and Upcycling

2010-08-15T11:50:00.007-05:00

I have FINALLY completed my first crocheted adult sweater/cardigan! The hard part now is deciding whether to keep it, or list it for sale....

I made this child's upcycled/recycled dress awhile back, but never got around to taking pictures, or listing it. This is a size 4/5/6, and it will eventually end up in my Etsy shop (until 11/30) unless someone offers to buy it before I get around to listing it. :-)
UPDATE: It IS now listed.

Last semester, I used one of my favorite L.L. Bean boat and tote bags for carrying around my school "stuff". It was very heavy due to all the books I had to lug around, so I decided to go hands-free this semester and make myself a messenger bag to sling over my chest. I used the free messenger bag pattern from Burda. I altered the pattern just a bit by widening the bag about 3" in the middle.

I Gave It My Best Effort

2010-07-05T12:31:00.005-05:00

...but I am coming back to Blogger after trying to adapt to Wordpress.

I read an article somewhere online that said Blogger would hinder my business, as it wasn't able to draw people in because it lacked some sort of ability to put keywords out there for the online public.

So I made the move almost a year ago. And now, I'm coming back home.

I like the ease of usability of Blogger. I can put things where I want to put them without have to do a Google search first on how to do it. When I want to blog, I just want to do it without having to search around to find a way to do it. I don't think that's asking too much.

Maybe I'm shooting my business in the foot by doing this, but I'd gladly go seeking the public than deal with the constant learning process on Wordpress.

For the love of coffee and tea

2009-11-11T17:24:00.003-06:00

I've had these vintage fabric yo-yo's that I picked up at an antique mall awhile back. I've made brooches out of them, and now coffee/tea cozies. The "plain" one's are going to the Mama-Preneur Bazaar with me next month.

Vintage Christmas - Stockings

2009-11-09T09:39:00.001-06:00

Click on a graphic to view it larger.

Vintage Christmas - Nativity

2009-11-06T11:14:00.002-06:00

Click on pictures to view larger.

Roasty Toasty Warm

2009-11-05T14:40:00.001-06:00

I usually try to post here when I’m in an Etsy Treasury to give thanks to the lovely individual who placed me there. I’ve been a little lax lately with the virus bugs going around and such. However, this popped up in my email today, and so here it is…my thanks to Susan.

Susan included my Primary colors slouch hat and neck warmer set

in her treasury called ROASTY TOASTY WARM.

In turn, I like to visit the treasury creator’s shop and find something of their’s I really like. WELL, this item just popped off the page at me:

Vintage Christmas - Holiday House

2009-11-05T14:01:00.002-06:00

Click on a graphic to view it larger.

Vintage Christmas - Hanging Tree

2009-11-04T16:01:00.002-06:00

Vintage Christmas - Gingerbread Kids

2009-11-03T13:43:00.001-06:00

Vintage Christmas - Trees

2009-11-02T12:55:00.004-06:00

Click on a graphic to view it larger.

Vintage Christmas - Decor

2009-10-30T15:52:00.002-05:00

Click on a graphic to view it larger.

Vintage Christmas - Cookies

2009-10-29T12:24:00.002-05:00

Click on the image to view it full-size.

Vintage Christmas - Cards

2009-10-28T08:50:00.007-05:00

I have a lovely old book (McCall's Giant Golden Make-It Book) from 1953 that is full of fun, vintage crafts. I thought with the holidays coming on, I'd share my favorite Christmas one's with you. Click on each photo to enlarge it, and print it.

More Christmas crafts/ideas from this book coming soon!

Quick holiday gift guide for 20 dollar or less

2009-10-26T20:43:00.002-05:00

At the time of this posting, there are 84 posts. That's a lot of savings!

I have a cabled drink coffee sleeve in BEIGE/TAN
http://jusshar.etsy.com

Why I'm so behind in blogging...

2009-10-19T13:24:00.002-05:00

This was taken with my Blackberry, so it's quite blurry. You get the idea though.

50% off

2009-10-06T12:20:00.002-05:00

For my Facebook Fans, all skirts in my Etsy shop are 50% off. I haven't decided how long to hold the sale, so grab them while you can! :-)

It's a ripply kind of day

2009-09-16T09:36:00.004-05:00

I've been working on these two items for awhile, but finally got them listed in my Etsy shop this morning. I'm particularly fond of that baby blanket. And this skirt would look SO cute for fall with a pair of tights.

Ripple Crochet Skirt 12 14 16
Ripple Crochet Baby or Toddler Afghan Blanket

I hope you had the time of your life, Patrick

2009-09-14T20:36:00.001-05:00

Ten things that are deeply wrong with me

2009-09-10T13:33:00.002-05:00

In no particular order:

1. I don't like hard candy
2. I don't like Taco Bell. In fact, I don't like most fast food.
3. I can't whistle
4. I can't drink diet soda without coughing violently, and getting flushed in the face
5. I don't like the fact we have to wear clothes. There are days when I really hate getting dressed. I want to stay in my comfies 24/7.
6. I have great difficulty completing a knit or crochet project. This is why I don't do lacey projects, or those with great detail. I won't finish it if I do.
7. On that same vein...I don't swatch. There, I said it.
8. I don't like foods with a liquid center. It just heebs me out.
9. I don't wear silk or satin. I don't like clothes that move around while I'm wearing them.
10. I'm freaked out by reptiles and amphibians. Can't go near them, or touch them.

Hey there, pumpkin'

2009-09-04T15:12:00.002-05:00

HALLOWEEN handknit pumpkin coffee drink cozy

Yarn Scraps Joy

2009-09-02T10:54:00.003-05:00

Since the CPSIA has allowed yarn in children's items again, I am busy thinking of baby items to make. One involves using up my yarn scraps. I can't seem to throw them away.

I have a hard time sticking to long-term projects, so this is an excellent compromise:

I just started this yesterday early evening, so you can see how quickly it works up. It should be done by the end of the week. :-)

You can get the super easy pattern here.

One for me & one for you

2009-08-24T11:12:00.003-05:00

A friend of mine is going through a rough time in her personal life, so I thought she really needed a hug from me. Since I am at least 24 hrs of driving time away from her, I thought I'd crochet a hug for her. Hence, the shawl.

I don't think she is a shawl person per say, but I can see her curled up with a book (or watching TV) with this little number wrapper around her. And even if that doesn't happen, she loves me enough to use it to make me happy. :-)

I've been getting into recycling unwanted sweaters into other knit and crochet items. The grey in the shawl above is from a recycled sweater. The blues in the shawl below is also (all cotton). Now, I could list this one in my Etsy shop, but I did have to join ends as the yarn did not unravel in one continuous strand (wouldn't that have been nice). I know, as a true knitter I should never tie/knot. I am rough on my knitwear, so I knot. A square knot, but none-the-less a knot. I'll have to think more on whether I want to sell this one or keep it for that reason.

I have two more shawls in the works from non-recycled yarns, and I'm hoping to get those listed on Friday. I have one for tomorrow that is "fall fabulous"

I'm still getting used to my son's camera. I want mine back. His does macro, but I failed miserably at it. I need to practice with it more. Have patience dear friends.

The Many Colors of...

2009-08-21T21:32:00.005-05:00

ripperarts chose my MOHAIR blue purple ALPACA hat scarf set for their The Many Colors of... treasury.

Check out this little number they have listed...

Today's Etsy shop listings

2009-08-21T08:23:00.005-05:00

Upcycled Recycled plush yarn scarf

Lemonade capelet poncho wrap FRINGE

Upcycled Recycled plush yarn shawl wrap

Burgundy Red Black crocheted shawl wrap

Golden Yellow crocheted shawl wrap

Upcycled Yarn Market Bag

2009-08-19T13:39:00.003-05:00

Ok, so it looks generously sized as is, but it stretched SO MUCH MORE. I'm actually going to use it as a laundry bag for my trip to Maine next month. I like that I can also toss the bag into the wash if need be.

And to think it started off as an Old Navy men's cotton knit sweater. I just unraveled the sweater, and VIOLA new yarn!

New & Renewed Listings in my Etsy Shop

2009-08-18T15:35:00.007-05:00

PLUS SIZE hand knit capelet ponchette

PLUS SIZE soft pink capelet ponchette

handknit Denim Blues shrug 1XL 2XL

crocheted blue stole wrap

PLUS SIZE crocheted wedding shrug

PLUS SIZE handknit shrug

Cancer Support Item

2009-08-18T08:54:00.000-05:00

Click here to find out how to order yours today. Monies from sales of these cozies goes to Joyce who was recently diagnosed with advanced stage lung and brain cancer.

Choose from a solid color cozy, or one with a color ribbon.

click on the above banner to view it larger

Groovy Crochet

2009-08-17T20:09:00.003-05:00

I found a 1970's pattern for a crocheted shawl. This thing was too stinkin' easy to whip up. I think I'll make some more. :-)

I used a size N hook (US), and Sensations Rainbow Boucle yarn in black. I still have plenty of that 11 oz skein left.

Here is my dearest daughter (my only one, actually) modeling it. It goes past the back of her knees, and she's easily 5'7". What do you think?

8/11 Etsy Shop Listings

2009-08-11T12:37:00.004-05:00

Just listed in my Etsy shop....

Coffee To Go?

2009-08-07T13:49:00.002-05:00

Listed in my Etsy Shop today: COFFEE SLEEVES!

Blue, Avocado Green, Raspberry Chocolate, Mauve, & Beige

Just listed in my Etsy shop

2009-08-04T12:52:00.002-05:00

37% nylon
30% acrylic
12% polyester
10.5% alpaca
10.5% mohair

View it now

Does this look like a....

2009-08-03T16:49:00.005-05:00

I'm in another EtsyTwitter Team treasury. I just love it when someone appreciates my work:

prettycheap
Isn't this pair of earrings just beautiful?

Treasury West

2009-07-31T19:35:00.003-05:00

SalonDArte picked my item below for a treasury.

And in return, here is an item of hers I really like:

Interview with a daughter

2009-07-31T13:53:00.004-05:00

Decided to interview my daughter after seeing this blog:

1. What is something mom always says to you?
Clean up your stuff

2. What makes mom happy?
Getting new yarn

3. What makes mom sad?
Daddy

4. How does your mom make you laugh?
Saying silly things

5. What was your mom like as a child?
I wouldn't know

6. How old is your mom?
43

7. How tall is your mom?
5'6"

8. What is her favorite thing to do?
Buy yarn

9. What does your mom do when you're not around?
Work on her laptop

10.If your mom becomes famous, what will it be for:
World's Fastest Knitter

11. What is your mom really good at?
crafts

12. What is your mom not good at?
patience

13.What does your mom do for a job?
A bunch of things

14.What is your mom's favorite food?
Thai food

15.What makes you proud of your mom?
There isn't one particular thing

16. If your mom were a cartoon character, who would she be?
Dory

17. What do you and your mom do together?
Lunch & shopping

18. How are you and your mom the same?
A LOT of things

19. How are you and your mom different?
Age

20. How do you know your mom loves you?
By her actions

21. What does your mom like most about (insert mom's significant other's name)
I don't know

22. Where is your mom´s favorite place to go?
Yarn shops

Go Green Treasury

2009-07-26T09:20:00.003-05:00

My fellow EtsyTwitter team mate PunkyJane decided she was quite fond of my crocheted upcycle hat. I personally love the colors in it, but to have someone else appreciate it is just awesomely awesome. :-)

Check out the treasury here.

And while you are at it....have a look at her Go Green LEAF fine silver handmade necklace in her shop. It's BEAUTIFUL!

Art From the Heart

2009-07-20T16:33:00.003-05:00

Foxy G featured a few of our fellow EtsyTwitter mates on her blog recently. Myself included!

Our GO GREEN event starts tomorrow, so we have been anxiously gearing up for it...creating, recycling, repurposing, and upcycling. Even if you are not super gung-ho for earth-friendly, you will still enjoy what we have all created for this event. And maybe, we can all learn a little something about helping our earth in the process.

Here are the EtsyTwitter shops that are participating in the Go Green event:
http://threepeats.etsy.com
http://prettywhimsical.etsy.com
http://herbanlifestyle.etsy.com
http://aquarianbath.etsy.com/
http://waysideviolet.etsy.com
http://NovaScotiaBeachGlass.etsy.com
http://GreenBubble.etsy.com
http://inmyheadstudios.etsy.com
http://curiousmess.etsy.com
http://beadsofglass.etsy.com
http://geekdetails.etsy.com
http://knittingguru.etsy.com
http://firebirdhouse.etsy.com
http://HandmadeBySandi.etsy.com
http://lindab142.etsy.com
http://jenco13.etsy.com
http://prettycheap.etsy.com
http://acageybee.etsy.com
http://HuayruroPeru.etsy.com
http://pinswithfury.etsy.com
http://WellspringCreations.Etsy.com
http://jaybirddesigns.etsy.com
http://scrapwithstyle.etsy.com/
http://kimwhitecreations.etsy.com
http://amievoltaire.etsy.com
http://jusshar.etsy.com
http://SalonDArte.etsy.com
http://echodamour.etsy.com
http://DeeJayPhotography.Etsy.com

Friday's Listings for 7/17

2009-07-17T13:08:00.004-05:00

Summer skinny scarf necklace
UPCYCLED black plarn necklace
UPCYCLED aqua and brown scarf

These will fit nicely with the EtsyTwitter GO GREEN Event that begins July 21st!

Trash to Treasure - Part 2

2009-07-17T09:58:00.004-05:00

One wicker picnic basket for $3.49 from the Goodwill, plus
One minky-covered pillow from my bed, plus
One sleepy cat, equals
A quick, cheap, and easy trash-to-treasure!

See more...

Upcycling/Recycling Fibers for Needle Arts

2009-07-14T12:11:00.009-05:00

I've done it before. Found something around the house that I couldn't help myself from crocheting or knitting with - besides yarn.

I remember when making plarn (plastic bag strips) hit the scene. One of my kids asked if it wouldn't just be eaier to use the bag as-is. Oh sure, but how creative is that?

And I've taken apart several old cassette tapes (I'm embarassed to say which one's as then you'd know my musical tastes back in the 80's) to use as yarn.

While looking for information and ideas about this blog post, I knew I wanted to talk about alternative fibers for knitting. I wanted to find the most creative uses/sources. I'd have to say, this one: Make yarn from newspaper takes the cake. I'm intriqued about it's durability. And I wonder if the ink would make your hands a mess while spinning.... I want to try it though!

Knitting with pet fur (cats and dogs) was something I heard about years ago. At first I thought "ewwww". However, honestly....how is it any different than fleece from sheep, alpaca fur, cashmere from a goat, or angora from rabbit fur? Cats and dogs are cleaner, and I know I'm generally wearing my cat's fur on me everyday anyway. Anyway....here are a couple of places that spin your pet's fur into yarn.

I've seen creations made from t-shirts cut into strips, and then knit or crocheted. Seems like you wouldn't get that much yarn from one shirt, so a sweater would take quite a few t-shirts! Still, I think I'm going to try this one. Maybe from men's undershirts...thinner fabric + thinner strips = a larger ball of "tyarn".

Here's a page I came across that is CHOCK FULL of tips and links on making your own yarn from alternative fibers. I saved this one for future reference.

I'm generally one of those folks that dives in head-first into something without reading any sort of directions. I figure if mess up, I can always go back and read. Amazingly enough, I don't often "go back and read". Sometimes you know more than you think you do. LOL Anywho....the first time I unraveled a sweater I just "wung it". Meaning, I let common sense guide me. However, there are some really good tips and hints in this tutorial that would save someone a bit of time and frustration. There are some sweaters that are just not condusive to yarn recycling.

Now, you may be asking yourself "why all this recycling business"? Glad you asked. I'm a member of a team on Etsy that is having this HUGE (did I mention it was huge?) event July 21-27 called GO GREEN with EtsyTwitter Team. A blurb from our team blog about this event:

Our team, which uses Twitter to expand its reach to a global audience, thinks that “Going Green” is far more than just a sales pitch. We really want to dispel the myth that items that are “green” have to be expensive or time-consuming to find, and encourage people to think of ways they can conserve the most valuable resource we have, which is the Earth itself. This is one way to really turn people on to the idea of buying responsibly and learning how to find items, which support, rather than harm, our natural resources.

Have you been encouraged to green up your life a little more? You can start by visiting this site of the best green blogs, and then.....shop with the EtsyTwitter team July 21-27.

Made something new by upcycling

2009-07-13T17:42:00.002-05:00

GO GREEN with the EtsyTwitter Team event

How to go green tips

FYI: These two bags were made from a cotton patchwork pillow sham :-)

Shop listings for 07/10/09

2009-07-10T07:08:00.002-05:00

pink blue brown hat scarf set

PURPLE hat cowl necklace set

PLUS size shrug purple

CUSTOM DIY lap afghan

CUSTOM DIY socks or mittens

CUSTOM DIY towel and cloth set

Gearing up for the GO GREEN event, part 1

2009-07-09T21:34:00.000-05:00

GO GREEN with EtsyTwitter Team

2009-07-08T23:13:00.003-05:00

Start shopping...

Friday's Listings for July 3

2009-07-02T23:36:00.006-05:00

crocheted upcycle hat

nine-patch quilt tote bag

PLUS golden crocheted shrug

PLUS flowers stripes skirt

floral stripes skirt small

To see all my listings.....

Things I've learned from Google Analytics

2009-07-01T17:42:00.003-05:00

30.74% of my shop traffic is direct traffic & 47.11% is from referring sites.
The top four referring sites are:
-http://twitter.com/JusShar
-http://jusshardesigns.blogspot.com
-http://facebook.com (jusshar)
-http://etsytwitter.blogspot.com

The top keywords that directed traffic to my shop were:
-jus shar designs
-plus size shrug
-shrug plus size
-jusshar designs

Visitor Overview
From April 1 - May 31 I gained 319 visitors, but then lost 79 of them from June 1 - July 1

Top Five Visitor Locations
In June, I had 617 visitors to my shop from the United States of America.
The other 78 came from: Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, and Germany

In the USA, my top five visitor states were:
-Illinois (where I live) with 107 visitors
-California with 59 visitors
-New York with 47 visitors
-Texas with 37 visitors
-Georgia with 29 visitors

In Illinois, my top five visitor cities were:
-Bloomington with 80 visitors
-Chicago with 8 visitors
-Elgin with 3 visitors
-Loves Park with 2 visitors
-Normal with 2 visitors

So, what does all this information tell me?
1. Plus size ladies are looking to shop.
2. I get visitors from outside the USA, but now how do I get them to shop with me?
3. I have a presence (somewhere, somehow) in my local area that is bringing in traffic. Again, how do I get them to stay and shop with me?

***** Can I ask you a HUGE favor? Can you leave a blog comment on how you found me, if you were looking for anything, and where you are from? OH, and if you live outside the US, please tell me what reason (if any) would deter you from shopping with me. Thanks so much! Maybe I'll have to give someone a little somethin' somethin' from my studio for leaving a comment. :-)

Friday's Etsy Shop Listings

2009-06-26T20:43:00.002-05:00

Unisex crochet beanie and neckwarmer set

Unisex Men Women handknit neckwarmer

Handknit cotton beanie hat

OR to see all my listings.....

Mannequin Tutorial

2009-06-25T15:58:00.012-05:00

I am someone that is forever looking for a head-and-neck mannequins for the hats, scarves, and neckwarmers I make. I've not been real happy with what I've been able to come up with so far. Until today!

I was happily crocheting a neckwarmer, and my mind started wandering (this happens often). An idea suddenly hit me for a head and neck manniquin. I have no idea if this idea already exists, so if someone else has come up with this I certainly
did not set out to copy your idea. I just had to fill a need I had. :-)

I have a stash of empty coffee cans and jars. You never know when you are going to need one of them for a craft project, or for storage. Anywho....here is my tutorial. If you make one of these PLEASE share. I'd love to see your version!

Head-and-Neck Manniquin Tutorial
Materials:
- 34.5 oz coffee can and lid
- 1 19.50"W X 7.25"L piece of jersey knit fabric / fold in half to measure 9.75" X 7.25" (neck part)
- 2 23"W X 7"L pieces of non-stretch fabric (head part)
- poly stuffing. I didn't gauge how much it took, but it does depend on your desire for a loosely stuffed or fully stuffed head.
- matching thread
- hand-sewing needle
- clear packing tape (optional)

Note: I used 1/2" seam throughout except for when I attached the head piece to the neck piece...then I used 1/4" seam. No reason in particular, but I wanted to note it.

This is the neck (can) cover that is cut on a fold.

I know this pattern shows "notches" cut out on either side, but ignore those. Cut out these two pcs as if the paper goes all the way to both sides.

Sew part A to part A, and part B to part B.

Basically, what you end up with is an extra long hat.
Next, stuff the head part until it's like you want, and then slip it onto the coffee can. The botton (neck) part will ride up on the can, so you are going to have to secure it down by handstitching the bottom.

I added a piece of clear packing tape over the threads to help hold them in place, and prevent them from catching on something accidentally.

Taking one for the team

2009-06-24T17:58:00.005-05:00

EtsyTwitter Team will be going green July 21-27. It will focus on organic, herbal, upcycled, recycled, and eco-friendly products from our team.

In an effort to get in the mood for this event, I've been making some items here and there that I've created with materials I already have on-hand, or upcycling clothing we already have.

So far, I've made these jersey knit hats:

I'm currently making reusable menstral pads for a friend. I don't even know if she'll like them, but there are quite a few sellers on Etsy who sell them, so they must be popular. I used flannel and terry cloth, with velcro on the "wings". SUPER EASY TO MAKE.

The Colors of Summer

2009-06-22T15:28:00.002-05:00

Lisa included one of my boucle capelets in her treasury:

When someone does this, I like to find something of there's in their Etsy shop that would match/go with the item of mine they selected. This little number caught my eye right off the bat:

Thanks, Lisa!

Well isn't that special....

2009-06-22T00:26:00.002-05:00

For the rest of the month, all skirts and dresses are reduced by 40%.

This special isn't offered to the general public, so if you know someone who would be interested....then have them sign up as a fan on my Facebook fan page.

Remember, you have to be a fan in order to receive the deals.

Friday's Shop News - June 19

2009-06-19T19:08:00.002-05:00

I relisted all my skirts, dresses, and a pair of shorts (12 items). It's been so hot and muggy here, that these feel so cool and comfy.

Have a SUPER weekend,
Beth

Kreativ Blogger Award

2009-06-17T12:52:00.002-05:00

The rules with this award are simple:
List 7 things you love
Link back to the person who gave you the award
Pass it along to 7 other bloggers

Seven Things I LOVE
1. God. No matter what I am going through in my life, I know He is in control...good or bad. Everything I go through is a leason, a learning experience to make me a better person.
2. My children. I was born to be a mother, and I love my "job".
3. My mother, sister, aunts, cousins....I have a huge family, and I think of them daily. I love seeing traits of great aunts and uncles in my own children. It makes me smile to know the family genes are carrying on.
4. Facebook. :-) My family is on it, so we are able to constantly keep in touch.
5. Maine. I grew up there, and long to return there to live one day.
6. My cat Raven. I swear she's actually a fur-person. She was a rescued cat, and has been an incredible addition to our family.
7. My friends...real-life and online. They mean more to me than they probably realize.

3 other bloggers (should be 7) to give my award to:
1. Jen at Knitters-Knitters. She is an incredible knitter, and the mom of six gorgeous children (plus Clover).
2. Twinkie at Twinkie Chan's Blaaaaaarrrrrrgh. Twinkie crochets food-related items. She's very much a "foodie". She lives with Hairy, Bibi, and Bunny. She's adorable, funny, and one of the most sincere people I've come across.
3. Beki at Pampering You. Beki makes beautiful jewelry all the while raising three active kids. We've been online friends for quite some time now.

Guest post on Gypsy Road Team blog

2009-06-16T23:17:00.000-05:00

Go check out my blog post :-)

My Friday Listing for June 12

2009-06-12T19:51:00.002-05:00

Just listed in my Etsy shop:
TROPICAL FLAVORS upcycled top & skirt 12-14-16

And it's eco-friendly! It's all upcycled except for the skirt part of the top. Read the description on my Etsy page.

Local Craft Shows

2009-06-12T09:28:00.001-05:00

I'm not in any of these, but thought I'd share some local shows in case any local folks read my blog:

All found on http://www.eventlister.com/

6/12-6/14
Tremont, IL
Tremont Turkey Festival - The Tremont Turkey Festival celebrates the turke.

6/21
Bloomington, IL
3rd Sunday Market - lots of primitives, folkart, crafts, garden, no tools, socks, pans, etc...rated # 1 by Country Living Magazine.

7/4
Eureka, IL
4th Of July Celebration

7/10-7/18
Peoria, IL
HEART of ILLINOIS FAIR PIRATE - BARBARY COAST: The Pirate Section will be a part of the HOI fair where patrons will leave this world and go back 300 to 400 years to the time when Pirates and Privateers ruled.
Patrons can shop, see live pirate shows and play games. Wandering merchants and street characters will stroll outside ...

7/11
Goodfield, IL
Ladies Weekend - This years theme is Christmas in July

7/11-7/12
Normal, IL
Sugar Creek Arts Festival

If you know of more than these, please feel free to add them in the comments.

Challenge #2 - CREATIVITY for the CAR

2009-06-09T19:36:00.013-05:00

I couldn't stop at one thing, so here are three. All are super easy:

Trash Bag Holder

I used a thrifted flat sheet that I've upcycled for other items.

I cut from the top of the sheet with the folded edge, and cut out a piece that was 15" wide X 24" long.
I cut out a piece for the strap that was 13" long X 2 1/2" wide.
I cut out 2- 10" pieces of 7/8" wide elastic.

I stitched up the piece for the strap lengthwise (right sides together), and then turned it rightside out.
At the top of the larger piece, I measured 1 1/4" down, across the whole piece. I then stitched on that line. Then I wove in with a safety pin, one of the elastic pieces. I pinned both ends until I could sew them together.
At the bottom of the larger piece, I measured 2" up, folded the raw edge up to the 2" mark, and pinned. I then stitched the raw edge down. I then wove in the other piece of elastic and pinned both ends.

I pinned the strap to one side of a top edge, and pinned it. I folded the plastic bag holder right sides together, lengthwise, and pinned.
I sewed, finished the raw edges, and removed all the pins.
I turned it right side out. VIOLA!

***I am sorry for the color of some of these photos. Not sure what happened there. :-)

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Travel Neck Pillow

I cut two pieces of fabric 11" long X 16" wide.
I used a CD and traced a curved edge from all four (x two) edges. I folded the fabric in half width-wise, and with a pencil drew a rectangle that is 2 1/2" wide X 7" long (from the bottom up). Before you cut that rectangle out, take the CD and round off the corners as shown in the photo below....You are left with basically a horseshoe shape.

I wanted the upper corners a little more rounded, so I freehand cut more of a curve.

And because I'm all about kids carrying their own stuff if they are able, I added a 7 1/2" piece of 3/8" wide elastic at the top that'll slip over their wrist. When I sewed this pillow up, I left a 5" opening at the top, stuffed it, and then hand stitched it.

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Crayon Roll

This was by far the easiest one to make.

I used felt so that I didn't have to bother with finishing edges and such.
2- 5 X 16 1/2" pieces of felt
1- 3 X 16 1/2" piece of felt
1- 9 3/4" 3/8" wide piece of elastic

Layer all three pieces, one on top of the other with the shortest pc on top. Fold the elastic in half, and place the cut ends between the two bottom layers (3/4" in) and pin it in place. Pin the piece down to prevent slipping and movement during sewing. Sew it all the way around.

From the stitched edge, pencil a vertical line on the short piece 1 1/4" from the stitching line. Measure out another 1 1/4" from the previous line, and make another line. Repeat until you've made your way across. I had 12 crayon spaces.

Stitch forward and back on each marked line. Trim all threads, and you are done.

Easy....like Sunday evening

2009-06-07T19:38:00.003-05:00

I tend to prefer lighter eating on a Sunday evening. Not sure why, but there you have it. A favorite meal of mine (and several others in the family) is my brocc-a-flower salad.

I knew I liked it at first bite, but I was surprised at how many others like it. Give it a try!

The container I like to use for this, is a 5qt ice cream tub. And with it being summer, I'm sure cleaning out a tub of ice cream won't be hard work for many.

5 qt container
1 c favorite cole slaw dressing (I tend to prefer a little dressing, so you may want to add more)
1 head of raw cauliflower, washed and chopped
1 head of raw broccoli, washed and chopped
1 c of dried cranberries
1 c of blue cheese crumbles
1 pkg of bacon, cooked, drained, and crumbled

Mix it all up, and there you have it!

TIPS: It's better chilled, and leave out the bacon for the vegetarian version. I like to chop up the stems and pieces for the critters outside. And the cat loves the show on the deck. :-)

EtsyTwitter Team Bridal Daze

2009-06-07T13:21:00.002-05:00

Check out our team blog for more information.

Reducing excess and my yarn stash

2009-06-05T11:20:00.003-05:00

MANGO orange hand knit mini cable shrug S M

REDUCE market bag morning glories sunflowers

Invest in a child

2009-06-04T21:45:00.002-05:00

THE BABY FOLD SUMMER CAMP
JULY 13-17, 2009

Summer camp is a time for The Baby Fold children—most of whom are challenged by severe developmental limitations or traumatic living situations—to learn new skills, take in the quiet beauty of nature, and quite literally make a splash with fun activities. They are taken out of their comfort zones and allowed to explore the possibilities of a transformed life. Through it all, they build friendships, self-esteem, and a respect for the teachers and staff who care for them. It's not just a chance to get away, but it's a chance to come back restored as well.

Buffalo Chicken Pizza

2009-06-03T22:18:00.003-05:00

There is a pizza place in Cary, NC that makes a buffalo chicken pizza that is AWESOME. I attempted to duplicate it tonight for supper:

Two cans of Pillsbury pizza dough
One bag of Tyson grilled chicken strips
One bag of mozarella shredded cheese
One half jar of Texas Pete buffalo chicken sauce
One cookie sheet

Bake at 400 for 28 mins

Ranch or Blue Cheese dressing is optional

Crafty Summer Series - T-Shirt Challenge

2009-06-03T20:54:00.020-05:00

I used two t-shirts (one adult & one toddler). The slipper pattern was from Burda. I didn't do a second layer for the bottom/sole, and I added a 5" strip of elastic for each slipper to help hold the slipper on. If I were to make these again, I'd make the slipper come further up onto the top of the foot. Overall, these worked up super quick and easy.

As an FYI, my DD modeled these and she wears a women's 9 1/2 - 10 shoe.

More tutorials on the Brassy Apple blog.

It's happening again

2009-05-23T15:38:00.001-05:00

Graduation is the 30th, and the party is the 31st. I can't deal with this right now.

New Items for May 22

2009-05-22T19:31:00.002-05:00

black denim and flamingos halter dress 14
mint green gingham beach halter dress 10
black fabric reversible headbands Rock and Roll 4

Open letter to my dear followers

2009-05-22T11:31:00.002-05:00

Apparently, there are issues with the FOLLOWERS widget and Blogspot. It makes blogs abort. So, I removed mine. I still have a way to sign-up for updates in the sidebar. All is not lost. :-)

No new listings today

2009-05-15T15:01:00.003-05:00

Yes, well, I have plenty works-in-progress, but they still need working on so no new listings this Friday. Definately next Friday. :-)

In the meantime, one of my groups on Etsy is having quite the sale this weekend. Perhaps you might want to check it out.

EtsyTwitter Team Treasury

2009-05-13T07:57:00.002-05:00

.....lovingly handcraft bright and cheerful fabric products for your children and your home. All my items are made from high quality quilting cotton and incorporate quilting techniques into quirky, modern designs.

BellflowerTextiles included me in a treasury. I'm in excellent company too.

I was going to show you my favorite item from Bellflower's shop, but I like everything! I can't pick a favorite. Go check this shop out...

Friday's Listings for May 8

2009-05-08T20:47:00.003-05:00

PLUS SIZE upcycled cotton blend halter dress 18
sage green shrug PLUS SIZE hand knit 16 18 20
bridal white shrug PLUS SIZE crocheted 16 18 20
blueberry blues crocheted wrap stole PLUS SIZE OSFM

Start that prayer chain...

2009-05-04T14:50:00.008-05:00

These two gorgeous women are my cousin Melanie (on the left) and my mom. Melanie is in stage 4 breast cancer. This picture was after her double mastectomy earlier this year, when my mom went to Maine to be with her during her surgery. Melanie's cancer had matastisized, so she continued with radiation for that.

Today, I received a text from her that the doctors believe it has spread again...this time to her shoulder and spine.

This is where I request your prayers. Melanie turned 32 in April - 32. She is far too young to have this happening to her.

It's In The Bag

2009-05-01T15:05:00.005-05:00

I've been making some bags lately. Just basically playing around with patterns I have found online, using my stash, and upcycling. What do you think?

This pattern is found here. I did the patchwork thing on my own. I call it my Maine bag. Can you figure out why?

This one is from the Betz White blog. My sweater wasn't felted, and I didn't add flowers, but you get the idea.

These are a pair of lined box bags. SHHHHH...there are for my mom for Mother's Day:
You can get the pattern here.

Fingerprint Friday

2009-05-01T11:30:00.006-05:00

There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:
I can see the fingerprints of god
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of god
And I know its true
Youre a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of god
So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints. Is it in nature? Kids? Animals? Where do you see them? Here's how to join in.

1. Blog with your interpretation of God's fingerprints.
2. After you've posted your blog, sign the Mr. Linky. Have fun exploring the other links as well! Please only sign in if you're participating. Hopefully this will make us look at things through fresh eyes throughout the week!

This is my first spinning attempt. See an earlier post about this wool I received recently.
I'm so excited that I could turn something so raw into something like this. And what does this have to do with God? He was the lamb afterall. :-)

Happy Dance

2009-04-27T12:02:00.006-05:00

I seriously can't remember the last time I was this excited about something. Seriously!

Thanks to Facebook, I am back in touch with several friends from my past. One by the name of Nancy. Now, Nancy and I didn't run in the same circles during our high school years. In fact, if you had asked me then I would have told you that Nancy and I probably didn't have anything in common except for the fact we were in the same grade. She likely would have said the same.

Fast forward to 20+ years later, and we are friends via friends on Facebook. Through this I discovered that Nancy and her husband Ken own/run a farm for Icelandic sheep. Interesting to me as a knitter as I've always wondered about spinning my own yarn. This is the part where I realize that there are no accidents in life. :-)

Today, a box arrived from Nancy. A glorious box of goodies that have me full of glee. I haven't got a clue where to start, or what I am doing, but for now I am a child on Christmas morning.

And can I just say how huge this bag of fleece is? I guess I didn't realize exactly how much I was getting. Nancy told me, but in my mind it was A LOT smaller. Don't get me wrong....I'm thrilled it's more than I assumed it would be! And, might I add, that I'm finding that Nancy and I have more in common than I ever would have expected. I rather like her, and probably would have in high school also. Just goes to show that sometimes we need to give others a chance...let them into our lives without letting assumptions get in the way.

Thank you, Nancy. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Being Part of a Twibe

2009-04-26T21:39:00.004-05:00

No, I am not doing my best Elmer Fudd imitation. That's really what it is called when you combine Twitter + Tribe = Twibe.

I'm doing my best to figure out what the heck it all means, but so far what I've gathered is

a twibe is a group of Twitter users interested in a common topic who would like to be able to communicate with each other.

Each Twibe founder creates a hashtag (# followed by a tag/keyword) that each Twibe groups' members use in their posts. This way, you can search through the twibes by the hashtag/tags to find your Twibe member's posts.

To tweet with your Twibe members, they have to be followers of you. Eventually, Twibe will have a FOLLOW ALL option.

Also, your tweets don't show up right away IF you are not posting from the Twibe site. Don't fret...they aren't posted in real time, but should eventually show up. Don't forget those tags though.

There is SO much more information about Twibe on the Twibe site. This is just a brief run-down. If you have any tips or suggestions that you've found useful, please feel free to leave a comment here. THANKS!

Etsians on Twitter are feeling blue

2009-04-26T10:07:00.002-05:00

Here's a little love for my team mates:

Check out all my team mates on Etsy...

Stuck at the sewing machine

2009-04-24T17:18:00.002-05:00

Just listed all these today!

Did I really need to know this?

2009-04-20T13:48:00.003-05:00

It's definately an interesting read, but now what does one do with this info?

Top Reasons Why Business Blogs Shouldn’t Be On BlogSpot.com

Summer Style from the EtsyKnitters Team

2009-04-19T23:11:00.003-05:00

That's ME on the bottom left!

Visit the Treasury!

Check out RossSoaps white you are at it. That's who created this super treasury!

With spring weather comes new listings

2009-04-17T12:01:00.003-05:00

I just listed these in my Etsy shop. A few were created from upcycled fabric. SO good for our environment.

Phat Fiber Sample Box Giveaway

2009-04-15T13:47:00.002-05:00

Phat Fiber Sample Box is having another giveaway - A learn to spin drop spindle kit by Silver Sun Alpacas!
It includes a spindle, simplified instructions, and some gorgeous fiber to play with.

FREE drop stitch wrap pattern

2009-04-13T16:44:00.007-05:00

I have not tested this pattern with anyone else but myself. I wrote this down as I went along, so there may or may not be mistakes. PLEASE let me know if you find any.

Big Needle Knit Wrap

#35 US knitting needles
3 strands of 4 MEDIUM: WORSTED-WEIGHT yarn

NOTE: You will be knitting with three strands of yarn held together throughout this pattern.

Holding 3 strands of yarn together, CO 12 stitches
K 4 rows (garter stitch)

ROW 1: Knit each stitch, wrapping the yarn around the needle twice instead of once when completing the stitch.
ROW 2: Knit each stitch, dropping the extra wrap off the needle as you complete each stitch.

Repeat rows 1-2 until you have the desired length for either a capelet (shown) or a long wrap.

K 4 rows (garter stitch). BO

Finishing: If you make a capelet, you will want to add a large button, for a closure. The size of the knitted stitches will act as an automatic button hole. Sew in any loose stands.

See my scarves in my Etsy shop.

It Is Finished

2009-04-10T09:09:00.005-05:00

Should Christians celebrate Passover?

Christians are no longer bound to observe the Passover feast the way the Old Testament Jews were. However, it is a good thing to study it (and even celebrate it) if it leads to a greater understanding and appreciation for Christ’s death and resurrection. He gave His life for His people and delivered us from the bondage of sin. That is something we should celebrate every day of our lives.

So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit. John 19:30 (NKJV)

Fingerprint Friday
There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:
I can see the fingerprints of god
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of god
And I know its true
Youre a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of god
So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints. Is it in nature? Kids? Animals? Where do you see them? Here's how to join in.

Go to the original post.