Have your measure and knit too!

Knit Stix has a Spring Sale on their aluminum and wood knitting needles with built in ruler markings which are laser imprinted and guaranteed not to wear off. How good is that? I've had and used several for many years and they are still perfect.


Measure, knit, enjoy!


Marg (so glad to have the internet back on)

MUST BE A SELF STARTER w/ ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS

Dream it - Do it Department



This week has been all about getting caught up and organized - I know! - you probably thought I had it all together, blah-blah -blah but it's been a zoo around here folks since we've all had the flu, freakishly cold weather and a bad case of cabin fever.

Monday started off with a bang and a huge burst of energy, but it's now Wed and I'm starting to lose my warp speed ahead attitude. (a StarTrek reference for sure-but don't hold it against me) My mind tends to wander over to the yarn stash and half-finished projects fallen by the wayside. Does this happen to anyone else or is it just me?

One of the things on the top of my "to do" list has been to reorganize my website knit1fortheroad.com. I'm updating and rearranging at all hours and will be adding some new features for you. You will notice the spiffy trademark that has been added, fresh from the trademark office (another oz like journey in itself). I've also added an RSS link and a link to knit1fortheroad on blogger, as well as paypal for purchasing Knit 1 for the Road directly from the site. More features coming, but the same basic info on links, help, books, etc are still there and I will be adding more, pinky swear.

I have another book in progress that will hopefully be ready for publication this summer and interviews are in the works behind the scenes for this blog, also.

I found an article this morning called Living with Less: Getting Creative During the Recession that I think you will find interesting. Crafting is still going strong!

Marg (looking forward to happier days, finished projects, and a can do crafty attitude)

Note: You know you're blogging too much when you wake up and your first thought is OH NO-A TYPO!

IT'S A GRAND GREEN DAY!

Growing up in downtown Savannah as a Walsh, March 17th - St Patrirck's Day was probably bigger than Christmas at our house. "The Greatest Day of the Year!!!", my father would exclaim. Our day was filled with celebration, gratefulness and glee-a grand day for young and old. I have many memories of parades, riding my first pony, marching in my school uniform no matter what the weather, and shaking the hand of a future President, as well as meeting other prominent people of the day. Surreal yes, but Savannah is one of those magical places where anything is possible and you never know who you will sit or stand next to in such a relaxed city.


Today, I'd like to share a little of that special time with you. Here are some links that offer free patterns, both knit and crochet to make, as welll as a little history. You don't have to be Irish to celebrate. Enjoy the spirit of the day, the celebration of a new beginning, and the hope of the good life to come.

Knitting Projects


LionBrand


CrochetProjects

Marg - thinking green

KNIT, CROCHET 911

Our friends at the Craft Yarn Council of America have come up with a handy site for knit and crochet 911 appropriately called Crochet 911 & Knit 911. The site has resources at your fingertips, downloads and even includes information on left hand knitting and crochet. Put this one in your favs as a handy resource. I have also added the link on knit1fortheroad.com just the faqs page for your convenience.

More interviews coming your way soon, along with a little MarchMadness so keep checking in and remember to DARE TO KNIT OR CROCHET in public ')

Marg (surprisingly organized on Monday!)

HAT GONE HOLLYWOOD, POOCH ON A STAMP!

Some updates for you today. Our friend, Christine Shively of Knots-of-Love.org will be on TBN station KTBN on Feb 27th. There's a post on Knots-of-Love homepage when and where to find the show"Joy in our town" in your area. For those of us on the East coast, I will post a link for the show when it becomes available. I will definitely be watching.

Note: the lavender cap in the photo came from my house - teehee- my cap's gone Hollywood on me! but will resume a normal life and be given to a patient in need soon. Remember, your knit and crochet charity items take on a life and journey of their own and bring much joy to those in need.

I heard recently from Linda Blick from the current knit/crochet along charity project, Blanketed with Love. Linda and her organization have been hit pretty hard by the economic times and receive more requests every day. They are very much in need of knit or crocheted blankets for the dogs who are victims of cancer. Consider making a blanket for them with soft, machine washable yarn or perhaps supporting them by making a donation for this worth cause. They are in need of stamps and have a link where you can put your fav canine on the stamp and send them to the organization for thank you notes, etc. Linda will be interviewed in the upcoming weeks for this blog and will give you some insight into what her organization has accomplished. I think you will be amazed and touched by their efforts.

Well, that's all for now, but I have some pretty cool new things in mind for the next post so stay tuned, keep knitting/crocheting and finding the knitty in your world.

Knit-Share-Go!

Marg (going to post Molly on a stamp to donate, Max would just be a blur)

JELLY YARNS INTERVIEW PART 2

Today, we're following up with part 2 of our interview with Kathleen Greco of JellyYarns.com. Miss part one? No problem. Click here! Part 1 Jelly Yarns Interview.



We'll start off with a press release which gives you a full description of what Jelly Yarn: 20 Cool Projects for Girls To Knit and Crochet is all about. Then we'll move on to more Q&A and pictures from Jelly Yarn: 20 Cool Projects for Girlsto Knit and Crochet. Enjoy, Get Inspired, and Create!



Press Release text from the Jelly Yarn book:

Jelly Yarn: 20 Cool Projects for Girls To Knit and Crochet
By Kathleen Greco and Nick Greco
Krause Publishers, $19.99. 128 pages, Girls Ages 9+
ISBN-10: 0896898032 ISBN-13: 9780896898035

Have you ever crocheted a project to put in a water-filled snow globe, knit a glow-in-the-dark pet collar and leash, used a CD to make a purse, or crocheted something to wear in the rain? This book is filled with projects that think outside the traditional yarn box.

Jelly Yarn: 20 Cool Projects for Girls To Knit and Crochet, explores innovative knitting and crochet projects for girls ages 9+. Projects created with super-fun, vinyl, waterproof Jelly Yarn are the basis for the kid-friendly patterns in this book.

“This unique yarn gives you the ability to create glossy textures that are impossible to make with traditional fiber yarns. Sure, it’s nice to knit or crochet wool hats and scarves, but how cool is glossy waterproof yarn! Jelly Yarn colors are named after kids favorite candies and ices with cool, fun names like Hot Pink Candy, Blue Taffy, Black Licorice, Lemon-Lime Ice, Raspberry Sorbet, and Pink Peppermint Glow."

This 128 page book features ten knit and ten crochet, easy, beginner, and advanced beginner kid-level projects. Fully illustrated, the abbreviation-free patterns include more than 100 follow-along, full-color photographs. How-to-Knit and How-to-Crochet chapters help girls learn with easy-to-understand, step-by-step photographs. With more than 300 color photos, discover the only fun yarn designed especially for kids…and the big kid in all of us!

Note from Kathleen...
I was invited to contribute work (crocheted sand) for the Institute of Figuring Hyperbolic Coral Crochet exhibition. (about 3/4 down the page)
and have exhibited my 5' x 4 ' crochet sand piece and smaller pieces of hyperbolic coral crochet with the Institute of Figuring, hence the Fine Art of Jelly Yarn.

Q. Do you have any tips for keeping your creative balance with all the constant frenzy of interviews, events, new products, books and running the online business? Do you have a secret stress management technique you’d like to share?



A. Keep a schedule and stick to it. We plan our life around our creative work, not vise versa. I usually don’t get stressed out, but if I do, I just take a walk outside along our creek, breath the air and look at nature.
Regarding balance of work and life with 2 people that run a business, that are married: We have different responsibilities. But we help each other carry out that responsibility when needed. We mold our lifestyle around the creative process. When we get up, when we go to sleep, when we have a deadline, when we eat. We're on the same page with our work/life schedule. (So we basically don't get much sleep or eat too much.) (hahaha)




Q. What are some goals or dreams for JellyYarns.com or other creative ventures in 2009 that you’d like to share with us?

A. For my company JellyYarns.com…new colors for Fall 2009, new fun patterns and high-tech yarn.
For my love of fine art sculpture…BIG knit or crochet mural-type sculptures
For my love of books…create more book ideas…creative cookbook?
For my love of writing…finish my historical fiction novella.

Q. Kathleen, do you or Nick have any additional information for us that you would like to share?

A.The creative process is the same whether you are designing a crochet toy or knit sweater. Create an idea, conceptualize it, see it in your mind, sketch it different ways, refine, refine, and more refining, finalize it and check it and re-check it.


Jelly Yarn book Cover


Snow Globe, Starfish and Pet Collar Projects




Crocheted Fun Pack Purse



Knit Jewelry BoxCrocheted Sports Bottle





Knit Pet Collar


Thank you Kathleen, for taking the time for this interview. I know the readers are excited, not only by the Jelly Yarns, colors and patterns but the enthusiasm and zest that you and Nick bring to your business and creative ventures.

For more information on JellyYarns, press, patterns and books, please visit JellyYarns.com.

Knit1 for the Road on 10 Quick Questions w/Dave

TADA! Here's the link for my recent interview with Dave from Fictionwritersgroup.com. He has a wonderful site called 10 Quick Questions with Dave.

Interview with Margaret Nock, Author of Knit 1 for the Road

Enjoy how Dave managed to get inside the mind of a knitty.

Tomorrow I will post the second part to the Jelly Yarns Interview with Kathleen Greco. Don't miss it.

Knit-Share-Go knit/crochet something wonderful.

Marg (amazed at how talented you are!)

JELLY YARNS INTERVIEW DAY IS HERE!

I met Kathleen and Nick Greco at the Stitches East Event in Maryland this past year. It was such a delight to see the two of them. They're probably the most friendly, creative and enthusiastic people you will ever meet.

Grab your knitting and your enthusiasm for the first installment of a two part interview with the talented Kathleen Greco of JellyYarns.com. Part Two of the interview will be seen on this blog on Wed. Click those needles together and away we go to the colorful land of JellyYarn!


Q. Kathleen, tell us how you and Nick made the transition from Dimensional Illustrators, Inc. to Jelly Yarns.com? How did you come up with the name?

A. Our corporate company is still Dimensional Illustrators, Inc. Jelly Yarns and Yummy Yarns are our product brands as an indie yarn company. My work evolved and overlapped directions from opportunities + exploring new directions. There were many forks in the road and I explored a lot of them and we're still evolving!
Fine art oil painting with a private art teacher began at age 6.
At age 11, I changed to a different private art teacher for, drawing techniques and color theory.
I learned to knit and crochet from my mom early high school age.
By degree I am a product designer, (from the University of the Arts formally Philadelphia College of Art - Bachelor of Science Industrial Design '79) [had lots of color theory classes] After designing for RCA Corporation for 3 years, I worked as a consultant product designer and had my own "shop" complete with table saws, drill press, lathe, etc. to facilitate the designs and create prototypes. Clients: Franklin Mint, RCA, Rhom and Haas…)

I have always loved working dimensionally and in plastic (i.e. plexiglass, vacuum forming, thermoforming, etc.

Dimensional Illustrators, Inc was born. An art director saw one of my prototypes and wanted me to create a "sculpture illustration" for an ad. My work evolved from product design to "dimensional illustration" creating sculptural illustrations for advertising agencies in New York City, as well as magazines and pharmaceutical companies; Newsweek, Discover, Health, Wyeth, etc. I created the sculptural illustrations from plexiglass or sculpy clay then photograph them with my 4x6 Format camera. Won some awards in awards shows for illustration.

I was also working on a fine art technique making Polaroid transfers on my own handmade paper. I exhibited my work in many fine art galleries in the US.

We decided to create our own awards show recognizing 3Dimensional Illustration. They were held at the Art Directors Club in NYC. We produced books from the show winners for about 7 years with Harper Collins Publishing. Suddenly, we were producing books with Harper Collins in graphic design and craft books with Rockport Publishers and Watson Guptil Publishers.

When knitting exploded, we created the Yummy Yarns books with Watson-Guptil. Then created a few more books and later created the Knitter's Guide to Combining Yarns book with C&T Publishing.

Jelly Yarn was born at the same time. While designing the Yummy Yarns book, an idea came to me to design a "patent leather" texture purse. I wanted to knit the texture of "glossy"? Vinyl yarn was the answer and I found a company to make it for us. We wanted a fun name something would be interesting and fun. We produced the Jelly Yarn book (Krause) with F+W Publications.

I have exhibited my 5' x 4 ' crochet sand piece and smaller pieces of hyperbolic coral crochet with the Institute of Figuring, hence the Fine Art of Jelly Yarn.

We now produce knitting and crochet books with F&W Publishing.

Phew that's the Short and Long of it!

Q. You have so much enthusiasm for your business. What keeps you motivated?

A. I get a lot of satisfaction from creating, ever since I was a child. Perhaps it was my parents constant enthusiasm to create something, make it my own … to envision an idea, see it clearly in your mind then take your hands and make it…. It's magically motivating to always make things.

Q. Tell us about your book, The Knitters Guide to Combining Yarns.

A. I wanted to create a book that would show different combinations of yarn in 6 colors, 10 yarns, 6 color relationships and 4 seasons. I also wanted to include a chapter on color harmony. The book was supposed to be named Yarn Harmony.

Below you will see several pictures Kathleen was nice enough to share of the beautiful patterns and swatches in The Knitter's Guide to Combining Yarns. This book is absolutely mouthwatering and a must have for your library!

The Knitter's Guide to Combining Yarns Cover

Fall Pattern and Swatches

Winter Patterns and Swatches

Red Winter Swatches

Fall Orange Swatches

Green Summer Swatches

Blue Summer Swatches

Color Harmony 01COlor Harmony 02

Stay tuned Wednesday to learn more about the Kathleen and Nick Greco, JellyYarns, patterns and more!

SAVE THE STITCHES! BAG THE PROJECTS!

Here's a handy dandy tool you're going to find very helpful when you've dropped a stitch. The Crochet Hook Keychain attaches to your project bag and will whip that dropped stitch into shape in no time. Now available at Scout's Swag... AND talk about project bags! Scout's Swag is loaded with all your favorite project bags from the Cali Collection, the hot Zuma Bags to the Buddy Cases and GoKnit bags. Spring is right around the corner and you're going to need a new bag for all your goodies.

Another tool that I use and find very helpful is the Pattern Tamer that holds your place in your knitting pattern. Colorful! No more need for sticky notes people!

Just a few knitworthy items with varying prices that you might like to consider. They're great gifts for a knitter with a spring birthday coming up soon!

Stay tuned for a fabulous interview with Kathleen Greco of Jelly Yarns.com.

The good stuff just keeps on coming...

Knit-Share-Go!

Marg (Waiting for spring!)

ALTHEA CROME, BUGKNITS & CORALINE!!!

Today, it is my honor and thrill to present the interview with the incredible Althea Crome of Bugknits, miniature knitting artist extroadinaire who designed knitwear for the character Coraline. Gather 'round the knitting/crochet sofa and click your needles and hooks together for the amazing Althea Crome and enjoy this inspiring, magical, and exciting knitting adventure.

Q. Althea, I have to start off asking about your knitwear for Coraline. What a thrilling opportunity for you. How did it come about?

A. You could not be more right—this was indeed an absolutely thrilling opportunity for me and without exaggeration, a life changing experience. About three years ago, while sitting at an outdoor Thai restaurant with my mom, lamenting the break up of my marriage, I got an unexpected phone call from Shere Coleman from the costume department at Laika Studios. She explained that Laika Studios (previously Will Vinton Studios), which had been recently purchased by Phil Knight, was making it’s first feature length animated movie. She told me how the movie they were making was based on a book called Coraline by Neil Gaiman (who, I admit, I had not heard of yet) and about Henry Selick who was the mastermind behind Nightmare Before Christmas. She told me about how many of the costumers had come from England and had worked on Corpse Bride, which my children and I loved.

She said that they had always wanted miniature knitting for their movies but never had anyone who could knit at that scale. They decided to do a Google search and they came across my website. They said that because the plot of the story had a mystical quality, they were looking for knitting which had a magical quality and they really felt that my designs filled the bill.

Shere asked if I was interested in doing commissions. At the time, I was so overwhelmed with trying to raise four children on my own and figure out how to make a living, I wasn’t sure I could take on commission work, but I asked Shere to send me a follow up email, which, thankfully, she did.

I recognized soon enough that this was a really special project and that I would be a fool to turn it down. I simply HAD to find the time to fit it in. The first request from the studio was to knit a pair of black and white striped stockings for Coraline. Henry Selick loved them and even said they were “scary good” but in the end, they decided not to use them in the movie. Instead, they told me about the magical star sweater they needed—it would have to sparkle. I went on a tireless thread quest for about a month—finding everything from stainless steel thread to paintable sparkles and then set about knitting swatches and sending them to Laika. None of them looked right on screen and because of a time issue, it was looking like my hopes of making something for this wonderful project were fading. In fact, at one point, they told me that they were going to have to start shooting soon and would not be able to wait for me to find the right combo of threads. Soon after that email, my mom came over with some holographic thread and said “Althea, I really think this will work on the sweater for Coraline.” I combined the holographic thread with some Polyester sewing thread and sent off several more swatches to the Coraline people. Eureka! That was the ticket and at the 11th hour, Henry decided to have me go ahead and knit up the first star sweater for Coraline.

At that point, the studio sent me a Coraline body to fit the sweater on to and a drawing of what they wanted the sweater to look like. I designed a pattern that would fit the willowy Coraline and it took about 2 weeks to knit the sweater. I was delighted when I got the thumbs up from the studio and over the next couple of years I made a total of 14 identical sweaters for Coraline.

I was also thrilled to learn that they would need a pair of gloves for Coraline because gloves are my favorite thing to knit—they are so intricate and personal and somehow very intimate. Knitting gloves in 1/12 scale was what got me noticed in the miniature world because up until I started knitting them, miniature collectors had never had true 1/12 scale knitted gloves.

There are only two knitted garments in the film—the star sweater and the gloves—both of which are special because they are given to her by her mothers—the star sweater is given to her by her other Mother while the gloves, which she really wants and covets are given to her by her real mother.


Q. What were you feeling when you were in Portland Oregon for the world premier of the movie?

A. The thing I felt the most going to the world premier or Coraline was that I was so lucky!!! Of course I felt very nervous too because I knew I was going to be working at the party—showing off some of the knitwear I made for the movie and talking to a bunch of the VIPs’ and possibly even some movie stars. Gulp—I’m just a hard working Midwesterner and this was my first red carpet event. What I did not expect was how wonderful, gracious and warm everyone was. I think the fact that the premier was in Portland, rather than LA, gave it a really special but more relaxed and Bohemian feeling—it was magical, like the movie itself. There were people there dressed in jeans, there were people there dressed in vintage gowns and there were people there dressed to the nines—all sorts of people from all walks of life enjoying a really special night together. The party concept was genius. It really showcased the amazing handwork that went into the making of this movie and also emphasized the colossal team effort required to make such a film. There are clearly many, MANY cooks in the kitchen and yet somehow they managed to organize it and pull it all together to create something spectacular, unified and glorious—much of which has never been seen on the big screen before. I confess, I was star struck at first. But then people started coming over to me and offering heart felt thanks and congratulations for my contribution to the film. Neil Gaiman and his wonderful daughter, Maddie, were the first to come by and visit. He was so kind and lovely and so very complimentary of my work. Then Travis Knight came by and said that he has been in the business for a very long time and he has never seen the kind of attention to detail he saw in my knitting—I was absolutely humbled and grateful for his kind words. I was surrounded all night by people who wanted to watch me knitting, who wanted to see my art, who wanted to tell me “thank you.” I must say, it ranked right up there as one of the best nights ever.


Q. What a wonderful experience. I have to say, I totally love the blue sweater with stars on Coraline. Is this item going to be made available in full scale to all the millions of children that are going to see the movie?

A. If Laika wants me to do a full-scale version, I would be delighted. I have not, as of yet, designed one but would certainly like to for my daughter and nieces.

Q. What was the actual size for the Coraline model and how long did it take you to complete the knitwear? Were you allowed to create your own vision of what Coraline would wear, or did you work within guidelines from the producer of the movie Bill Mechanic or director Henry Selick and/or the author, Neil Gaiman.

A. Coraline is about 9 inches tall. She is incredibly willowy and has a very big head compared to her lithe body. Coraline’s star sweater is made up of four pieces—front, back, and two sleeves. It took me 2 weeks to knit each sweater. The costuming department took the pieces and sewed the seams together while it was on the puppet (therefore I could not have knit it in the round) and they also applied the glow-in-the-dark stars. The conceptual design for the sweater came totally from Laika. They sent me a picture and a color swatch. The rest was up to me. I worked closely with Georgina Haynes, Margaret and Deborah Cook in the costuming department. I had the opportunity to visit the set of Coraline in October of 2007 and I also got to sit in on a meeting with Henry Selick where he was viewing some of the daily footage (the day I was there, they were looking at the scene where the Other Mother eats one of he cocoa beetles. I was very impressed with the level of attention they gave to the chewing and the swallowing. Henry took the opportunity to tell me how special my contribution to the film was—he told me that he thought it added something truly special

Q. What inspired you to knit in miniature?

A. Although miniatures had always held a sort of fascination for me, I had never entered that world, or had a dollhouse, or even knew that a whole industry revolving around miniatures really existed. In 2001 one of my best friends kept telling me about a dollhouse she had rescued from the garbage. When I finally went to visit her in Philadelphia she showed me the house, which she was in the process of remodeling and it looked like fun. When I got home I decided I would take on a dollhouse project of my own, ostensibly for my children when they were a little older. In my efforts to fill the dollhouse with things (I shopped mostly on eBay then since I was home-bound with kids and really knew nothing of miniature shows or dollhouse shops) I came across a knitted sweater on eBay and thought, “hey, I want to try that.” I have been an avid knitter since my college days and thought I could do at least as well as I had seen on-line. That very night I made a man’s cardigan with 0 needles and baby weight yarn. It was bulky and clumsy but it was an instant thrill. I felt at once that I had to do more. I still have that first project and enjoy pulling it out from time to time to look at it and see how far I’ve come. That sweater is made at about 11 stitches per inch whereas the sweaters I make now often have more than 50 stitches per inch.

After I had made a few things, I decided to try selling them on eBay and though that venture did not exactly pan out monetarily, it did get me connected to some people in the field. One connection led to another and within about a year or two, I had met some famous miniature artists who were taking some of my knitted garments to shows to sell. I was getting some really positive feedback and people really loved my knitting. Eventually, once my children were a little older, I started attending shows myself.

Q. Althea, how did you come up with the name of your website, Bugknits?

A. That’s an easy one—my dad dreamed it up for me—he’s always been great with names.

Q. Do you have any tips for the readers for balancing family life, knitting and business? Have your children read Coraline?

A. I’ve never been that great at “balancing” things in my life—I tend to go to extremes. Like staying up until 3 in the morning so I can get a good eight hours of knitting in for the day. I can say this: one thing I have learned through this process is that it is NEVER too late to follow your passion in life. That no matter what all the naysayers may throw at you, if you are passionate about something, and good at it, then take the chance and pursue it—regardless of whether or not it is financially viable at the time. Granted, not all of us have the luxury to pursue art in lieu of making a living and I am no exception. I live very close to the ground, so to speak, but I believe that some day my hard work and my love of the craft will pay off financially. My children are absolutely delighted with Coraline and have already seen it twice. Next, I’ll be taking them to Indianapolis to see the 3-D version. This year I got to be Coraline’s Knitwear creator AND have a two-page spread in Ripley’s Believe it or Not’s last book (Prepare to Be Shocked) so they have a lot to boast to the kids at school about!

Q. What are your favorite subjects for your knitting at this point in your creative process?

A. I am in love with designing conceptual knitwear. I get visions in the shower, while falling asleep, while driving and I can’t wait to get home, draw it out and then chart it. I know that once I can chart something, I will be able to make it. I design all my garments so that the shape compliments the pictorial theme knitted into the garment. For example the Ancient Greek Amphora I and II are decorated with all kinds of Greek imagery—warriors and boxers and bullfighters. But the shape of the garment, while still recognizable as a sweater is that of a Greek vase—with a tall neck, and ornate foot and sleeves that look like handles. The King and Queen of Heart Sweater has a collar shaped like a crown and sleeves that flair out like a royal robe. The Scuba sweater (a narrative story about a day I spent diving in Key Largo” has a collar designed to look like a barrel sponge and borders on the edge of the cuffs and bands to look like the waves of the ocean. My Andy Warhol sweater, with Marilyn Monroe on the back, has soup can on the front for pockets (the lids open up to reveal the pocket opening). I have several new ideas, which are all in various states of completion—some are still just concepts (I intend to design and knit a 3-D Roman relief sweater) and others are charted out awaiting the first knit—like my medieval nativity scene conceived of as a triptych.

Q. Do you have any dreams, goals or plans in 2009 for yourself and/or the business that you would like to share with us?

A. My dream is to be able to continue to follow my passion—designing and knitting in 1/12th scale. I have so many concepts for new sweaters—a roman relief, a family of nudes, a dragon and a medieval nativity scene. So many ideas, so little time! I would also like to do some traveling and presentations. I will be at the National Museum of Women in the Arts on May 9th and at the Columbus Library in Columbus, Indiana in September. I’m also thinking of writing a book of patterns—taking my miniature patterns and up scaling so they can be knit for real humans. And I would love to work on another movie again—the Coraline project was one of the best jobs I’ve ever had and I really liked working with those great creative minds.

Q. Althea, thank you so much for taking time away from your busy life to be interviewed for the Knit1fortheroad readers. Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself and/or Bugknits?

A. It’s been my pleasure. If you need any other information about what kinds of things I’ve been up to or what books, magazines or articles I’ve been in, you can check out my resume on line at http://www.bugknits.com/Resume.htm I was in the last Ripley’s Believe it or Not (Prepare to be Shocked) and Also Sabrina Gshwandtner’s book “knitknit: profiles and projects in knitting’s new wave.” This year I will be in a book called The Culture of Knitting.

Althea, it has been my pleasure to interview you and share your wonderful journey with the readers. It is such an inspiring story and message for everyone out there pursing their passion and their dreams. Thank you!

For more information about Althea, Bugknits, Patterns and Exhibits visit:

Bugknits.com
Radical Lace and Subversive Knitting Exhibit


Knit-Share-GOOOO see Coraline!

IT'S OK TO BE SQUARE

Do your knitting cables kink up, curl around or knot? Check out the new Kollage Square Circular Needle Sets for smoother, more ergonomical knitting. No kinks, curls or knots in your cable sounds like a keeper for the devoted knitter. Another amazing tool for you to add to your list. Individual or set - your pick!

Fresh from Coraline, I can tell you, as a knitter, you will definitely enjoy the handy work of Althea Crome, the fabulous miniature knit artist who made the knitwear for the movie. You will definitely click your lite-up knitting needles for this movie. There will be more about Althea, BugKnits, and Coraline soon on this blog. An interview is currently in the works!

HAPPY KNITTING EVERYONE - look for knitted or crocheted items in unique places!

Knit-Share-Go!

Marg

EXCITING INTERVIEWS COMING SOON!

Quick blog here to let you know that I've been working feverishly to bring you some more interviews that I know you're going to love.

Coming Soon to Knit 1 for the Road

Kathleen Greco of JellyYarns.com
Rachel-Marie Kanter of KnittyDirtyGirl.com
and last but certainly not least
Althea Crome of Bugknits and the genius behind the knitwear in Coraline

These kind ladies have agreed to take some time out of their busy schedules to share with you information on the how's, the why's and the what's next for them.

We'll be gathering around the knit/crochet couch soon with our hot chocolate and tea to soak up all the knitty deliciousness!

In the meantime, Knit-Share-Go!

Marg

KNITTING THERAPY IN PLACE

Knitting Therapy Experiment

An update on the knitting therapy experiment - the box with scarf and knitting needles has been placed in the chiro's office...front counter, no less! There have already been some inquiries about when it would arrive so we will see if there are any takers. Will they knit or not? I started the scarf and knitted for 2 inches and will check it the next time I'm in the office. The doctor will also take note of comments and feedback. If you're new to this blog or have been away and missed the post about this knitting experiment - here's the link for the full scoop a roo!

OMG MONDAY!

More interviews coming your way and a whole lot more!

Knit/Crochet-Share-Go!

Crocheting at the chiropractors office.

Marg (now officially has seen just about every kind of snow/ice combo this winter)

PUT SOME PEP IN YOUR KNIT/CROCHET STEP!

As a knitter, author and human being in progress, I have learned how crucial building relationships is. Friendship, community, and being surrounded with the positive vibes that can go with that, help us stay well mentally, physically and spiritually. It doesn't matter what your job, career or which knit/crochet techniques you embrace, there's a community for you. Stay positive my new knitty ones - you're just getting started...and for us longtimers - we're going TURBO this year!!!

Just a little Tuesday pep talk for the crafty at heart! Stay tuned to this blog for more interviews, some spring fashion tips for the fasionista side of you, and more knit/crochet worthy goodies.

Remember - knitting needles and crochet hooks don't discriminate - you can start at any age!

Pep On People and remember to Knit/Cro Share Go!

HEARTS OF LOVE

Today, I'd like to introduce you to Teresita Valadez, also known as Seasidepurl,the founder and moderator of Hearts Of Love on Ravelry.com. Teresita and I became fast friends when we met on Ravelry in this wonderful group, and she is very involved in helping members knit, crochet and stitch items for cancer patients and provide links and motivation to help you get started. This group has really evolved in the past year and many wonderful and creative people have stepped forward to help.

Teresita and the Hearts Of Love members really show what can be done when we put our creative talents to work. Do click your needles together and wave your hooks as we welcome Teresita to Knit1fortheRoad...

Q. Teresita, what was your inspiration for starting the amazing Hearts of Love group on Ravelry?

A. I have always been active in helping others with health care information. I have coordinated several Health Education Fairs and also have done workshops sharing information about Breast Cancer Education and Prevention. Then on March 18th, 2008, my husband received a Prostate cancer diagnosis right on our anniversary. It changes things all in an instant. So one month later I had begun this Ravelry group which has evolved into what it is today,“HEARTS OF LOVE” where members create chemo caps with fashion flair and radiance to brighten the days of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Q. Do you have favorite items that the group makes for cancer patients?

A. Our group enjoys making chemo caps for all ages now....infants, children, teens and adults. There are so many children that at such a young age already are diagnosed with cancer. I call these little warriors “THE YOUNG and SO BRAVE” and we actually share info with our members about children with cancers for their parents and family. In addition to chemo caps, we also making scarves which pair up nicely with the chemo caps. Dishcloths and washcloths are also very thoughtful gifts to make as well along with comfort shawls and lapghans. These would be our favorite items.

Q. Hearts of Love is growing by leaps and bounds. How do you juggle being the moderator with everyday life?

A. Keeping “HEARTS OF LOVE” active and enjoyable for our members is just part of my everyday. It is a way to channel my energy into inspiring others and empowering others that we can all make a difference...... you could say that “YES we can!” So this is just part of my everyday life and it brings joy into my life knowing that I too am doing something to fight back against all that cancer hurts and takes away from us.

Q. Do you knit and crochet? What are you currently learning or working on?

A. I crochet, knit, loom knit and also enjoy plastic canvas needlepoint. I work on chemo caps, dishcloths, and baby items (blankies, booties, bibs, washcloths and bibs) for my local chapter of STITCHES FROM THE HEART charity organization that I began for my community in June, 2008. I am the Area Representative for our chapter which meets monthly. I am also a “blanketeer” for my local PROJECT LINUS.

Q. I saw a thread called What’s Cooking - regarding recipes. Do you have any special recipes that you can recommend to take away some winter chill?

A. I do love a good bowl of 3 alarm chili. Of course here in California we aren't struggled with the freezing snow and harsh winter conditions as many parts of the country where our friends do live. Our members add fun recipes to match the season or just a favorite. There are some nice recipes for “Chinese New Year of the Ox” and of course already some dinners to make for Valentine's Day.”

Q. How have your group members inspired you?

A. I enjoy the personal letters that members write me and share their stories with me. I have made some wonderful friends in this group that write me often and make me very happy to be their friends. I think inspiration and joy is reciprocal..... as you inspire others, it comes back to you twice over. This group is all about caring and realizing that we can all reach out and warm someone's heart in a loving way. It doesn't matter where we live or our age or our ethnic background. We are all connected by being here and can do so much to brighten the days of our lives.

Q. What is your favorite yarn, snack food, and activity outside of knitting?

A. My favorite yarns are the all cotton yarns (Peaches 'n crème and Sugar & Cream) along with Vanna's Choice Yarn and Caron's Simply Soft. For snack food, I love enchiladas and pizza. Besides my crafting, I love to read. I am an avid mystery reader and also an avid movie buff. Baking and cooking are also some favorites too that I enjoy doing as well. I love going to the seashore whenever I can and love knitting and crocheting there.

Q. Is there anything you would like to add that we haven’t covered?

A. Taking care of ourselves is very important. We all get busy. Yet it is very important to learn about lowering cancer risks in our own lives. There are controllable and uncontrollable risks that we face. We can fight back against cancers in learning what factors we can control. This is something that we can do.

Receiving a cancer diagnosis does change things. But it is up to us how we are going to go on with our lives and fight back to go forward. There is much more to this disease than simply the radiation and the chemo or whatever other treatment one receives. It's an entire process of being informed and the many doctor visits and then the treatment. Then there is life after treatment which can be difficult in learning how to cope with the physical, mental, and emotional changes that we have undergone. So being a friend and support to someone battling cancer and learning about support groups is indeed a special way that we can help others. Cancer survivors will tell you that the support they received from others was a big part of their healing and recovery. So come on over to “HEARTS OF LOVE Ravelry” and visit our “Hope & Support Resources” for lots of very helpful resources. Each of us can really make a difference and no amount of love is ever too small!

Thank you Margaret for this interview and for thinking about “HEARTS OF LOVE.” Glad to have you as a member and continued best of good luck with your book and good health wishes to you!

We're so glad that you took time out for this inspiring interview, thank you Teresita.

Please visit the group for details and information.Not a member of Ravelry.com, no problem, you can request an invitation on the homepage. Already a member, great~go to the groups tab and type in Hearts of Love.

THERE'S SOME GOLD IN 'DIS HOUSE!

GOT TERRIBLE TOWEL? GO STEELERS!