Pearls in Toronto

I honestly don't remember how I first made contact with Cheryl Toy, but I met her on one network or another, and we've been online pen pals ever since.  She transplanted from Canada to New Orleans, and back again—on the way successfully selling her exquisitely-made handbags (our shared love of bag-making was the impetus of our meeting), and knitted wonders. Today Cheryl has been nominated for the Kreativ Blogger award in Toronto, for her knitting and crocheting blog, Pearls Toronto. In her blog she shares tips and stories of a knitter in her... shall we say, uniquely personable way... yes, Cheryl has been known to take her knitting projects to her local New Orleans bar. For never having met Cheryl, I consider her an inspiration, a friend, and wish her good luck!

Check out Cheryl's blog!

Crochet a Linen Grocery Tote

I've been crocheting a lot lately, and have been keeping my eye out for a tutorial for a nice crochet grocery tote. Well, this one by Pearl Soho fits the bill. Get creative and make this with linen or cotton yarn in any color you like! Get the Tutorial here:
http://www.purlbee.com/crocheted-linen-grocery-tote

Stress Begone the SF Etsy Way

I was reading today's blog post on the SF Etsy Team blog, and thought, "Too bad I don't have a bathtub!" But for those of you who do, follow this tutorial for how to make soothing bath bombs yourself, and de-stress you and your loved ones!

Get the Bath Bomb Tutorial from SF Etsy Street Team Here

What I Do

The Mio Bag by Gstudio
©Heather Graef

I'm really excited that my home studio is shaping up so that I can get on with it in the next few weeks. In the previous post I tried to explain the odd scenario of having a sewing studio on a houseboat. I now have four work tables and lots of shelves for my supplies — just a little painting and organization left to do and off we go! Once I'm feeling settled I will post photos of the final result. In case you are wondering, I design and create handmade bags and home accessories. I typically use modern designer textiles, as well as 'upcycled' remnants. This fall I will be designing some new works with vintage fabrics and kilim rugs.