The Week of Toys

Hi everyone! How is your Monday going? Ours, is a little on the shaky side. Our car is down. It happened on the way home from church yesterday. Luckily, we weren't at the Market yesterday. That could have been a disaster!

Anyhow, we had a week, heavy in toys! Because we were seriously low!!! I can't believe how quickly sales go, when it comes to our little toys. It makes me excited. And a bit nervous. All at the same time. Because sometimes we just can't keep up. But here are the items we were able to make this week. :)

I 100% concentrated on these sweet girls! We had so many, just a couple of weeks ago. And I was down to just one, on Sunday. So I spent my week, making all the little parts. And putting them together. I just LOVE me a cradle purse!

To be honest, I also have a bag large Ziplock bag, full of more parts! Enough for another 5. I just need to make the main body. The white part. But I'm trying to stay ahead of the game. Which can be difficult, at the height of the Season.

My Mom also focused on toys this week. She just LOVES to make these little pigs. And they are pretty popular as well. The littles are always calling them Peppa and George.

She also managed another two. We sell them individually. But I'm thinking of buying a couple of Peppa the Pig books. And adding in a Peppa and George. To sell together.

My Mom also made another duck. She made quite a few last week. And had one more, to put together. I just need to put a ribbon on it.

Again, I need to put a ribbon on this gal. My Mom made another giraffe. These toys, have to be one of our best sellers. And we can't keep up with them. I've been trying to help my Mom. She lays the patterns. I cut them out. And then she sews them.

These little guys...well I didn't know how to take the pictures. I have had SO MANY requests for these guys. They're car cup coasters. So they go inside of your drink holders, in your car. The circle fits right inside.

From what I have been told, it helps to keep your car drink holders clean. Like if you have a spill, then you just take these little coasters out. And wash them. Instead of having a HUGE mess!

So I sat down a few weeks ago. And made a bunch of them. I think there are 26 sets. And then I threw them in a basket. And forgot about them. I literally, just needed to hide the ends. So I sat down on Friday...and did just that. Here I have the warm colors.

And the cool colors. I think these are my fav! And I've been considering, making some for our own vehicle.

And here, I have some neutral ones. I ALWAYS save my scraps, from other projects. And a project like this, is perfect to use those scraps up! 

People don't believe me, when I tell them...we rarely have any yarn that doesn't get used up. We save our scraps and use them for amigurumi, projects like this, or little adornments for hats and scarves. 

I have some other projects that I've been working on. I just haven't finished them up. I have stacks of objects to put together. Literally, I just need to spend one entire day, sewing projects together. Maybe next week! 💕

Inspired By the Love of Friends

My friends and family inspire me. Craft wise, they're always sending me pictures, dreaming up ideas, and tagging me on social media. I LOVE it!!! Some times, I get overwhelmed. Like when I had 800 tags for that heart blanket on Facebook. Ya, I don't have time to make all those...

But honestly, some of our best selling products...come from our loved ones. They'll see something, need something, or dream something up. Once I've made it...I fall in love. And so many people want those items!!!

I also run new items by our loved ones. Make something for a birthday present. Try out a new idea. Have the littles play with some toys. That kind of thing. I'm telling you, try it! Especially if you don't have littles of your own. :)

In the last few weeks, I've gotten many pictures. Some I have saved on Facebook. Because quite a few of us belong to a "Secret Group." And the settings don't allow you to save the pictures...or even share them on your page. I still haven't figured out how to save them. But I know they are there. And I use them for inspiration.

Here are a few of my favorite pics, that I've gotten via text. They're all Valentine's Day related. Many have to do with the littles. Because most of my friends have littles...as in younger than 10.

I almost died when I saw this! One of my really good friends, just had her baby girl. She has 2 little guys. And was so excited, when she found out she was having a girl. Since the Fall, I've been making so many things for her. She's ordered a ton of things from us! And in the 5 days prior to baby girl coming...I might have stayed up all night working on orders. Baby props and such.

But this is just adorable!!! And looks so simple to make. My friend asked if I could make one. By Valentine's Day...baby girl will only be 2 1/2 weeks old! I already made a pink heart blanket for her. As in, shaped in a heart.

So I think this will be adorable to add! I need to get working. So I can send it off this week. It might take an hour or so. But I think this is something I should add to the regular. :)

My same girlfriend, sent me this picture. At Christmas time. I had recently whipped up a similar Christmas set. With a matching diaper cover. And she asked me to make this. In pinks. With a cute diaper cover. I have it started. But I HATE having to change the colors at every single row. But I'll have it done!

Another one of my girlfriends, knows how to crochet. I taught her about 10 years ago. Before she had kids. She now has 2 girls and a boy. She will tell you, that she is still at a beginner level. No, she is past beginner. In fact, she and I have hosted a number of CALs together. :)

But she is a lot slower than me. Hello! 3 kids will do that! She sent me this picture, asking me to make these for her kids. I'm almost positive that this is an Etsy pattern. I just haven't had the time to look. But I will...

Another friend of mine, has all girls. And asked if I could make each one...a box of chocolates. Different colors though. What a cute idea! I sorta hope, I can find a pattern. I know I can wing it. But a pattern will help make these cuties...a heck of a lot quicker!

This little game, was something I was sent by other friend. Who has 6 little ones...and two on the way. She was wanting a couple off these, for when they go out. Like to dinner and such.

She's looking at this game, as something to keep them entertained. And something that's not too loud. She said it doesn't matter the color. Because my friend wants her kids to use this for a while.

I know there has to be a pattern somewhere. But I think it's simple enough to wing. 2 small squares...in single crochet. A little stitching. And some hearts. Easy enough!

That same girlfriend is expecting twins. As in, any day now! They were a total surprise. Her and her hubby were done having babes. She had her tubes tied and all! Then she got pregnant. With twin girls!!!

Needless to say, she had given away, most of their baby stuff. And now, is in need. But she ordered these hats. For her sweet baby loves. I like how the hearts become sorta like little ears.

I'm also thinking up some sort of diaper cover. I have a few days. But I can't wait to see the babes in these. I think they will be so cute!!!

Another friend, sent me this picture. He's a fire fighter. Has 3 little girls. And now, has the sweetest little boy. That was born, last Spring. I had already made his girls, some cute Valentine's Day hats. 

But he was looking for something, for his little guy. We agreed on this hat. I want to try and crochet the heart. I saw something a while back, that was a heart with cross bones behind it. Like a "biker" kind of embellishment. So I'm going to try that.

Because Love Day, isn't just for girls. Boys should have fun too! It's just a little difficult for me to find inspiration for the boys. How about you?

My little Goddaughter, loves her some Holiday Garlands. I blame myself. I am always making her one, and sending it to her. She is always into celebrating the holidays, decorating, and putting up some garlands.

She asked me to make her one of these. No problem. Who doesn't love a good pom pom? I just don't like making them. Maybe I can make the balls. And have my Momma fluff them. She makes the prettiest pom poms!

And I might have to make one for me. I told you, it's my fault she likes garlands. They are my weakness. And I just think it would be a fun decoration!

Funny thing about these coasters...I've had them on my list...for like 5 years. I came across this picture and kept wanting to make them. Never getting to them. But now, a friend has requested 7 sets. For the ladies in her life. 7 different colors. 

I have a long list of things to get through. So many orders! So little time. But I am so inspired by all these pictures. And so grateful, that these ladies turn to me. I can create amazing things for them. And their families. And of course, it helps my Momma and I!

What inspired you as a crafter? Your little ones? Family, friends, crochet groups? How about patterns and books? I'd love to see your inspiration too! 💕

Cute Crochet Reads

I wanted to talk about crochet books and magazines today. I'm constantly searching at Joann's, Hobby Lobby, Michael's, Wal-Mart, and Barnes and Noble. I also spend a lot of time searching Amazon, Etsy, and eBay for fun books.

It should be known, that I LOVE to make toys. It's my favorite thing to make. And I'm always looking for new patterns. And new designers. If you have a favorite, please leave it in the comments. :)

With that being said, I like to try new things. New designers. New patterns. New toys. Here are a few of the books, I've recently had my eye on...

Everything about this book, says fun!  I want to make every project in this book. I haven't seen it in person. Only on Barnes and Noble. I wouldn't mind getting this book now, and making ahead for next Holiday Season.

These Zoomigurumi books are my favorite! There are a ton of them! I've managed to pick up a few, at Joann's. Using a coupon...you can get them for almost nothing. Like a third of the price. I'm not lying. I think we have 2 or 3 in the series. All the toys are just too cute to make. I just wish my local stores carried more of them.

These Care Bears are too fun too! I remember this book, from years ago. I was in college. And would "visit" it at least once a week. Hobby Lobby was about 2 minutes from my home. But I never seemed to have extra money at the time.

By the time I could afford it, and the Winnie the Pooh book, they no longer sold them. And it made me so sad. I still think about these books. And search for them. Whenever I'm online. I am yet, to come across them...for less than $30 a piece!!!

Ana Paula Rimoli has been my favorite pattern writer. For years and years! I made my first Etsy purchase...at her shop. I don't think she sells patterns any longer. All of her patterns are in books now. And I have the first three.

I can still remember finding her shop. And wanting every single pattern that she offered. I bought 3. And she gave me 2. The first time I got a large paycheck...and extra spending money...I bought all her patterns. I emailed her beforehand. And she gave me an incredible deal! I might have also been gifted a book or two. ;)

This book looks like so much fun! With bigger projects. Something that I'd now make, for family and friends. Oh how fun! I need to go look for this book!

Ana's other new book...seems to have a lot of her OG patterns. I have most of these as files. But would 100% buy this book. To have everything in one place. Easy to access when needed. 

Can you see why I LOVE Ana's patterns? They are so cute! With her patterns, I went from making crochet blankets...to the fun stuff. Her patterns are so easy to read. The projects are completely adorable! Her patterns...changed my life!

I'm 100% a magazine reader. In fact, when my friends asked me what I wanted for Christmas a couple of years ago...I asked for magazine subscriptions. I'm so lucky, that they gift me, my favs for my birthday or Christmas.

But since Red Heart discontinued their magazine a few years ago...I haven't subbed to any Craft Magazines. But this one...is calling my name! Where do I find it? Because Joann's only has cute knit amigurumi magazines.

This is another cute magazine. That I wouldn't mind being subscribed to. I saw a couple of covers, during my search. All the patterns look too cute! I think these 2 magazines are probably from the UK. But I'd still like to receive them.

I would love to hear what you've got your eye on. Or what your favorite magazine, book, or leaflet is. I like to try a little of everything. Hope I've inspired you a bit. 💕

New For 2018

Hi guys! I hope everyone had a good Christmas. And has a safe New Year's. Me? I've been buried in crochet orders. My Mom and I have managed a little Christmas fun, with our friends. And some quality time with my grandma.

But I've been thinking about so much for this year! beginning with our CALs. One of my favorite things. And about getting a bit more organized. Also, having a place for people to reach out, and chat a bit. So I'm starting some Facebook groups.

For those of you that participate in our local Learn to Crochet classes...we've got a group. I know it can be difficult, when we only meet once a month. So I thought this would help a bit. I think it will help me as well. I get a lot of the same questions. And I just feel like, this will be an easier way, to communicate with everyone.

For our customers and fans, I've also started a group for you. A place where I can let you know where we will be selling. Maybe show some of the items we are working on. Be more interactive with our customers.

Lastly, I started a group for our CALs. This group, should be the most fun. A place to interact while we make things. And speaking of CALs, I've already picked the first 7 for the year! Of course, I'm using free patterns. With one exception. For the first time ever, you'll have to purchase one pattern. I think it is for $5.

Here's a quick look of our Two Crafty Hearts 2018 CALs...

This is one of my favorite, go-to gifts. I think all of my girlfriends, my Momma, and a few church ladies have all been gifted this Sweet November Shawl. It works up so fast. And darn, I can't find any of my pictures. But it is a beauty!

This sweater...I fell in love with it! The moment I saw it. This is the one CAL, that you will need to purchase the pattern for. But I think it is well worth it!

I'm always wanting to make blankets. I find it a little difficult to stay motivated. You know, past a baby blanket. So I think this shall be fun. And a ripple. I do love the look of a ripple. Although, I think I've only ever made 3 in my life!

I came across this Hopscotch baby blanket on Facebook. I saved the picture to my phone...but not the link. And it took me a while to find this. Once I knew what the pattern was called, it was no problem!

I just like the look of this blanket. A little vintage. A nod to the Call the Midwife blanket, that was so popular a year ago. Something that I can imagine my great-grandma creating.

I have a bit of an unhealthy obsession with monkeys. I don't know what it is. When I saw this, I wanted to make it immediately! It really is cute. :) But the pattern is only for the applique. For our CAL, I want to include a Granny Square blanket as well.

I've also been quite obsessed with amigurumi food lately. I think it is always a good thing, to throw in a quick CAL. You know, after making a blanket. Or something large.

Lastly, I picked a dog. Why? It's the Year of the Dog! And let me tell you, it took me a looong while to pick a pattern. All the ones I wanted to make, required you to buy a pattern. But I was really set on making a dog.

As always, I'm open to your suggestions. What would you like to see? As far as CALs go, I try to stay with free patterns. I try to have a variety of projects and skill level. But if there is a pattern that you are interested in...please let me know!

Come back tomorrow, and I'll let you know what CAL #1 is. I'll be posting the pattern link and materials needed. On Fridays, I'll be posting our goal for the week. I think it will be better than Sundays. See you tomorrow! 💕

Dia de los Muertos Toys and Decorations

When I think about Dia de los Muertos, I ALWAYS think of my Goddaughter. She LOVES this holiday! The kiddo, is just 11 years old. And has gotten all of us, to fall in love...with this amazing day. And celebration! 

And when I think of celebrating, I think of good memories. I was a professional Mariachi for over 10 years. And this was one of my favorite celebrations to work! I learned so much about my culture, and this holiday, from all those years!

So when I think about Dia de los Muertos, I think about fun. About celebrating, our loved ones. About making new memories. And passing on tradition. I think about all those things...that make this day so special. The people, religion, traditions, food, music, art, stories, etc. 

A few years ago, I found this pattern. And thought my Goddaughter could use one. For her birthday. I modified it a bunch. And made 3. Sent them in the mail. And I thought she was just going to kill over. When she got them, she was so excited!

This is another idea, that literally fell into my lap. And has been such a success. A friend, asked if I could make one. Before I knew it, I was making 10! She is such a fun doll. And I've attempted a few other similar dolls.

Whenever I think of Dia de los Muertos...I think of Papel Picado. And I was so excited, when I found these last year. I'm not a thread crocheter. But this could be a game changer!

I bought the thread months ago...I just need to sit down. And put my mind to it! I want to at least make 3. For my Dad's alter. But how fun, would these be, as place mats?

And because all kids need to carry something. I usually make wands. But these would be fun too!

This pillow, I may have gotten a few requests for them too. I think they are so fun! And would be fun, on the couch. All season long!

These buckets, were a regular for me as well. They're not tough. Just a fun addition to the season!

I saw similar pieces to these recently. And I fell in love! The possibilities are endless. I can already see myself, making a ton of them!

Skulls, buttons, and amigurumi! Need I saw more? I want to make dozens and dozens. They are so fun! And for my Goddaughter, they would be a fun birthday favor.

Kids enjoy the holiday as much as us adults. And I think we should encourage it. More than just the outward "skulls." But the true reason, behind Dia de los Muertos. Let the littles help with the alters, prep, and of course...the celebrations!

Nurse Momma

One of my best friends, works with me in the hospital. She's an incredible pediatric nurse. An amazing woman. And the best friend, I could ask for. No lie!!!

Lexie struggled with fertility problems. For years. And it just broke my heart. You know, sometimes, you meet people, and just know. They are meant to be parents. Lexie and her hubby, are those kind of people.

On December 12, 2012, the welcomed twin girls!!! What a blessing! Oh, and I just might be a Godmother again. :)

Sweet Lexie went on maternity at the end of the Summer. She spent her last trimester, on bed rest. A precautionary move. To make sure, those sweet girls, were safe! Then Lexie got 8 1/2 weeks of maternity leave! If you're doing the math, she would have been back to work on February 11th. But my friend was pretty smart. She stacked her vacation and sick time. Saved it up. Which allowed her, another 8 weeks at home!!!

That brings us to today. April 8th. Lexie is going back to work. I talked to her last night, and she was a total wreck!!! Actually, all week we've been talking. And Lexie, was not looking forward to going back to work. How could she leave her girls? Especially for the hours she works...

I knew I had to do something for Lexie. And the girls. But what??? I'm over 4 hours away. Working at another hospital. All I want to do, is give them all a hug. Tell them it's going to be OK. But I'm not near. What to do???

I spent a few hours searching Pinterest. :) And then headed to Target. I bought my sweet friend a gift. Wrote her a note. And set to make 2 little nurses...

I figured I'd send each of the girls, a little nurse. So they could have their momma close to them. You know, while she is at work! I got everything made, and sent out on Friday. And they got their package on Saturday! :)

Love this pattern! It's so cute. And was such an easy pattern. Did I mention, it's free!!! You just have to love K and J Dolls. Their patterns are adorable. Now, I'm thinking of turning this amigurumi nurse, into an amigurumi doctor. :)

I feel bad, because I'm not near Lexie. What can I do??? I did give Lexie my work number. Hoping to be of some help today. I know she has missed work. And I know, she'll miss her girls. But I know, this will be good for all of them.

Lex, I love ya girl! Take deep breaths. The girls are going to miss you. But they will be OK today. And when you get home, they'll have great big smiles. Just for their momma!!!

The Easter Bunny and the Googy-Eggs

Easter is less than a week away! We're talking days here. And my cousin just invited us, to her house. :) For an Easter BBQ!!! Well, I've been working on a few Easter treats. For my Goddaughters, friends' kiddos, little niece, nephew, and small cousins. But now, I need a few more. And they need to be quick and easy!!!

What do you think about these cuties? First of all, I adore this bunny! He's just too cute and fat. :) Perfect for Easter! And these silly eggs, I would have NEVER thought of something like this. But they are too cute! I want to make a bunch!

Which is good. Since I've got 3 days to make 10+. And I have 2 BBQs ahead of me! Between, I adore the "line up" in this picture. And this amazing blog! Go check out Woolly Toons. And maybe, you should make a bunny too!

Garden Pals

There's something about March 1st. Every year, when it rolls around, I get so excited! It means there are so many fun things ahead. I'd like to call March, "Birthday Month." :) Not only is my birthday in March. But literally, for about 2 weeks straight, I know someone who is having a birthday. It's pretty crazy!

With March, also comes Spring. My favorite season of the year! I think about gardening, BBQing after work, sundresses, open windows, and little animals. It's just a magical time of year! Not to mention, Easter is usually just around the corner. :)

Today, I found a new pattern. I guess it was in this month's Crochet Today magazine. But I haven't been able to find it anywhere! But just look at these sweet Garden Pals.

This is a free pattern! Yes, you read that right. And I've decided, it's the "little surprise," that I'm making for all the kiddos this year. I might have to figure out a way, to make at least 2 boy bunnies. But it shouldn't be hard. You should give this pattern a try. I know I'm going to! Times 100!!!