Paper cuts: not always painful

This stunning paper cut by Rob Ryan  is such an inspiration! The arrow is pointing to the word “gorgeous!” I think I may have to try my hand at making something similar. Too bad I didn’t find this before valentine’s day:P

On Moving On

So, I’m participating in thing-a-day, and one of the participants has some great videos on youtube. I really like this one. Looks like it’s animation and stop motion, and it’s really quite stunning for a class project. Sometimes, things like that make me wish I had pursued a more artistic degree… But I love my job, so I will just live vicariously through other people!

Silicone Caulking Rubber Stamps

Craft Chi has a great tutorial on making your own rubber stamps using household silicone caulking. I LOVE this idea, because I have been wondering how to make multiples of my stamps for small x-mas gifts. I’m thinking I might try carving a stamp in rubber plumbers gasket (durable and thin) then using an iron, heating it up to make an impression in the wax. That way it can have the same look of a carved stamp…

Goodwill to Great Idea!

I’m really digging these re purposed thrift store finds to make cake platters. I definitely need to hit up Goodwill for glass plates/bowls/cups next time I make a donation run. I have been looking for something decorative to hold my pearls and long necklaces (the cereal bowl just isn’t cutting it!).

Tip: Working with Difficult Yarns

Soapbox has some great tips on how to crochet with difficult yarns (read: homespun!). While I crochet by feel mostly, those who are more visual crocheter will really appreciate this tip!

Inspiration: Hedgepom

Sometimes you come across something to darn cute you can't take your eyes off it. Literally. I want to just put him in my pocket and carry him wherever I go. My little mochi's  Pygmy Hedgepom is beyond adorable.  No pattern, but definitely something to aspire to in my crafty career!

Inspiration: Darling Donkey

Well, Wordpress was down today, which might have been a good thing for me because I have a large project due tomorrow. I still managed to find ways to procrastinate, a skill that I have mastered!

While perusing flicker, I found this cute donkey. I've seen a bajillion (really!) different amigurumi bunnies, bears and cats. But a donkey is unique, and I like that. The head shape made me start to think about other unique animals I could make…    

Note: I do not have a pattern for this, as it is just inspiration.  

Inspiration: Amazing, unbelievable scarves

Wow, I wish I was as creative as TwinkieChan! She has scarves that look like cupcakes, salad, pizza and kitties! I don’t know where people come up with these ideas, but I’m jealous. Maybe someday I’ll understand the physics of crochet enough to be able to make anything that is in my head. I have only been crocheting for 3 months, so I suppose I’m doing okay… But still, I am amazed at her ingenuity.

Inspiration: Glove Bunnies

Crafting seems to be more widespread in Japan. Here, it seems more of an indie movement. I get asked “why” I’m making things all the time. People at school don’t understand why I would make something if I could just buy it. But in Japan, crafts seem to be everywhere! There were dozens of Amigurumi books out before the idea even hit other shores. There are so many amazing Japanese craft books out there, with a plethora of cute ideas.I like these bunnies and cats made out of gloves. Goodwill has them on sale, two for a dollar. It gives me so many ideas!

Inspiration: Green Dragon

greendragon4

Originally uploaded by Angry Angel.

This dragon is stunning! I cannot wait until I have the knowledge and skill to free hand something as amazing and cute as this. I’m still on the egg shapes…

Note: I DO NOT have the pattern, nor know of any similar pattern. I have gotten so many e-mails about this one! I love this dragon too, so I posted it for inspiration to you free-handers.