Hello quilting friends! I’m popping by to share a “squirrel” moment I had recently. I was getting myself organized for handwork that I could accomplish while watching the Olympics in the evenings. I have four quilts that need binding, so this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy some inspiring athletic events and get my work done.
As I was putting away my new Frosty Forest throw quilt, I was struck by the notion that I should make a granny square throw pillow to go with it! I ran to my sewing room and gathered some of my Lori Holt chunky thread and discovered that I have the perfect colors on hand: Pebble, Linen, Thyme, Denim and Cloud.
That evening as I watched the men’s gymnastics team final (along with some swimming and synchronized diving), I began to work on the pillow. As a beginner, I’m pretty slow with my crochet stitches, and I’m not experienced enough to stitch away and merely glance at my handwork. I can do that when I’m hand binding a quilt, but not with crochet. So, I would watch the competition, stitch during a break in the action, and then watch again. It was a very enjoyable evening! I snapped another picture so you could see my progress.
I respond to a lot of inquiries about the specific products that I use, so I’ll include that information here as well. Whenever possible, I shop at my local quilt shop or craft stores for my supplies. When I can’t find what I need or want, I move on to online stores that I know and trust.
- Lori Holt’s chunky thread is available in a wide range of colors at Fat Quarter Shop.
- I’ve had a few people ask about my yarn bowl. I found that at my local JoAnn Fabrics. Here is a link to the product online. I waited until I had a 40% off coupon in my app and then zipped back to the store to purchase it.
- I also invested in a reasonably priced, hand-operated yarn ball winder. The yarn really does pull more freely from the skein if you take this step. (There are many YouTube videos that demonstrate how to do this.) But fair warning, it’s pretty fun and addictive. I could probably make several yarn balls an evening, just for the fun of it!
- For hooks I use Clover Amour. They were recommended to me and I like the way they feel in my hand. For my Lori Holt chunky thread projects, I’ve been using a Size E 3.5 mm. For the Scheepjes stone washed projects I’ve blogged about, I’ve been using a Size G 4.0 mm.
As I mentioned to you in June, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give crochet a try. It’s relaxing and rewarding, and there are so many terrific free tutorials to get you started. My June 24 blog post (photo below) includes links to Lori Holt’s instructional videos for beginners. As a quilter, I’m finding that branching out into crochet has renewed my creative energy.
Thanks so much for stopping by! And thank you to all of the Olympic athletes for the joy and inspiration you bring to the rest of the world!
~Taunja
