Zanz

Organic Merino - Summer Fruits

2011-11-28T11:33:00.001+11:00

Organic Merino for Danni

Cotton's are coming

2011-11-20T09:12:00.001+11:00

I am just about to list several hand dyed cotton lots. Keep an eye out on Zanz Facebook page for some sneak peaks!!!

Getting ready for the first Loving Hands for Cancer Research auctions

2011-11-03T12:15:00.003+11:00

Head on over to ArtEZan to check out some of the gorgeous items we have already previewing for the Loving Hands for Australian Cancer Research Auctions that start this weekend.

The first auction will run from this Saturday 5th November and will finish Saturday 12th November at 9 pm

Please support this worthy cause and let your friends know about these great items up for auction.

Bamboo Shawlette for Loving Hands Cancer Fundraiser Auctions

2011-11-02T20:01:00.002+11:00

Blocked this gorgeous bamboo shawlette today.

This will be auctioned off at this weekends Loving Hands for Cancer Fundraiser auctions that I am holding at ArtEZan

This gorgeous shawl is knit using the Age of Brass and Steam pattern and knit using Zanz hand dyed 8ply bamboo. So soft and silky and a gorgeous blue and purple colourway.

Please pop on over to ArtEZan to check out all the stunning items we have up for preview and let your friends all know about this great fundraiser for Cancer Research.

Handspun Versa

2011-10-24T10:57:00.003+11:00

Also recently finished this gorgeous versa in handspun merino.

I just love the way this has turned out, so stunning.

And I think I found the perfect button for it too!

Handspun faux cashmere

2011-10-24T10:54:00.004+11:00

Recently finished this stunning handspun faux cashmere, love the autumnal feel of this one.

Inca Cotton

2011-10-21T09:20:00.001+11:00

Some lovely Inca Cotton dyed up for Anna.

A couple of FO's - Age of Brass and Steam and Pettine

2011-10-03T19:25:00.002+11:00

A couple I've finished recently.

Today I finished this Age of Brass and Steam. This is knit in 10 ply cotton so I upped the needle size to 6mm. only managed 7 repeats in the last stockinette section (used about 125g I think, got away with 4g leftover, I judged well) but it's not noticeable. Just love this one, had this yarn (dyed by me, Zanz) and always knew it would be something for me, though dd1 is also a purple fan and so in love with it.

Finished this Pettine a couple of weeks ago but haven't had a chance to block it. But thought I'd photograph it today as no idea when I will get around to the blocking (mostly too wet at the moment or if it is a fine day too busy).

Wasn't sure about this one all through the knitting, loved the yarn when I'd first tried it as a sock but wasn't sure how it went for a shawl but seeing it finished and even more trying it on it really works.

Stitchmarkers

2011-09-19T21:34:00.002+10:00

Just listed a load of lovely new stitch markers.

Here is a preview of some of them. Lots of cute flowers and polymer clay and wooden beads as well as some stunning mother of pearl and freshwater shell coin beads.

Age of Brass and Steam Kerchief

2011-09-09T20:25:00.002+10:00

Absolutely love this. Finished it last week and have worn it loads already.

The Age of Brass and Steam Kerchief is a free download pattern on Ravelry.

It's a super easy knit and makes a lovely mini shawlette. It fits perfectly with the v at the front and the ends tie back around at the front. Perfect for keeping your neck warm without any bulk.

This one I knitted using hand dyed 8 ply cotton (by me, Zanz available at ArtEZan) and it is supersoft and comfortable.

I will definitely be knitting a few more of these. Next one planned is in bamboo.

This weeks handspun

2011-09-08T12:03:00.000+10:00

This weeks hand spun yarn. Faux cashmere. An interesting fibre to spin but produces the most amazingly soft yarn.

Socks

2011-08-31T14:01:00.002+10:00

A pair of socks I finished last week.

Since discovering 20cm circulars I am loving sock knitting.

I have some in stock at ArtEZan http://www.artezan.com.au if anyone else is interested in giving them ago. They really have made sock knitting so much easier for someone who hates using dpn's and I didn't like the results magic looping on socks.

Zanz hand dyed wool stocking tonight at ArtEZan

2011-08-29T10:54:00.002+10:00

A number of new Zanz hand dyed wool colourways will be stocked tonight on ArtEZan at 8pm Sydney time.

There are 200-300g lots in merino, bfl and superwash merino bases.

Pop over to ArtEZan tonight to check them out.

Stitch markers just stocked at ArtEZan

2011-08-28T09:51:00.003+10:00

Have just added some new stitch markers at ArtEZan. Special single markers, perfect for marking the beginning of your round.

Cute P U R L set.

Stunning genuine Swarovski crystals sets. Shown below in Green. Also available in black and rose.

Gorgeous Handspun

2011-08-25T14:06:00.001+10:00

Have got back into one of my favourite pastimes. Spinning!!!

Here are last weeks off the wheel.

Crocheted hairbands stocking tonight

2011-08-24T11:59:00.003+10:00

Tonight, Wednesday 24th August I will be restocking ArtEZan with some of our ever popular crochet headbands.

Hand dyed supersoft merino, cotton and handspun yarn is used to create a gorgeous and unique hairband. These are fully adjustable as they tie at the back so one size fits all from little princesses to mum's who want a treat.

And as modelled by my daughter.

Inca cotton for Karla

2011-08-16T10:47:00.001+10:00

Gorgeous!!! I so love this yarn and must get some more at some point. Want lots for me!!

Super super soft and gorgeous hand spun in Peru Inca cotton.

Three semi solids for Karla.

Loving them!! (of course especially the purple)

Shorties

2011-08-05T08:37:00.002+10:00

Just finished these shorties.

Not been doing a lot of knitting lately and really enjoyed making these.

Stocking of Zanz hand dyed tonight on ArtEZan

2011-07-01T19:57:00.003+10:00

Tonight at 8pm Sydney time so new Zanz hand dyed colourways in bamboo, merino and cotton will be listed on ArtEZan http://www.artezan.com.au

15% OFF at ArtEZan

2011-04-30T16:26:00.002+10:00

Mother's Day is just around the corner!!!

To celebrate we are offering 15% off at ArtEZan until Thursday.

There are lots of great Mother's Day present ideas including hand dyed yarn, knitting accessories, hand dyed aprons, socks, stunning beaded bookmarks, hats and scarves.

Pop on over to http://www.artezan.com.au and grab a bargain for yourself or as a present.

Just added a couple of gorgeous scarves - hand crotched organic merino and cotton

2011-04-30T16:23:00.003+10:00

I was so pleased with the scarf I made for my sister I decided to make a couple more for the store.

The first is hand crotched in hand dyed organic merino in a brown and pinks colourway. Just stunning and so soft.

And this one is in 100% cotton. Lovely and soft and very pretty in white, pinks and purples.

Check them out at ArtEZan http://www.artezan.com.au

Today only 20% off with the Cloth Nappy Hunt discount code at ArtEZan

2011-03-31T12:56:00.002+11:00

Use your Cloth Nappy Hunt discount code for 20% off today to celebrate the last day of the hunt.

ArtEZan will also be keeping the 10% discount with the GDUNH code running for another week.

New Swarovski Crystal bookmarks at ArtEZan

2011-03-22T22:17:00.002+11:00

I've just listed a load of stunning genuine Swarovski crystal hand beaded bookmarks on ArtEZan http://www.artezan.com.au - no photo can do these justice. Simply stunning and the perfect gift or treat for yourself.

Lara and her doll

2011-03-14T13:31:00.001+11:00

Just had to share these photo's of my dd, Lara, with the doll I made her for her 4th Birthday.

Swarovski crystal bookmarks

2011-03-13T19:35:00.002+11:00

Today I made up a number of Swarovski crystal bookmarks.

These are great pick me up presents and perfect for Mother's Day, teacher gifts, birthday presents.

These are all created with the highest quality genuine Swarovski crystals and have to be seen in person to understand how stunning they are.

I will be listing these bookmarks in the next few days on ArtEZan.

I also made a start on some gorgeous Swarovski crystal stitchmarker sets.

Arlene Scarf

2011-03-12T16:01:00.005+11:00

Just finished this scarf for my sister's birthday - modelled here by my dd1.

Crocheted in organic merino it is super soft.

A really simple and easy pattern that I think really shows off the colours in the variegated yarn.

I will be putting the pattern up in my store ArtEZan tomorrow.

ETA the scarf pattern is now available under patterns.

Happy Birthday to my dd Lara - MASSIVE SALE DAY at ArtEZan

2011-03-08T10:48:00.001+11:00

It's my baby girls 4th Birthday today (8th March) so for one day only there is 15% OFF everything at ArtEZan - use your Cloth Nappy Hunt discount code for a further 10% OFF - So in all a MASSIVE 25% OFF everything at http://www.artezan.com.au/ - including yarn, knitting accessories, children's clothing, knits, bookmarks, bags etc.

HURRY OVER FOR THIS GREAT BARGAIN!

Doll for dd's 4th Birthday

2011-03-07T13:10:00.003+11:00

Tomorrow is my dd3 Lara's 4th Birthday. (OMG my baby is growing up!!!)

I am so pleased with this doll I've made for her. She is so cute and soft. Yarn for body and the two dresses hand dyed by me (one dress is BFL and the other is bamboo) as well as some of the hair.

Hope she likes her.

Great Down Under Nappy Hunt - starts today

2011-03-01T20:56:00.002+11:00

The Great Down Under Nappy Hunt started today and runs all month. There are $9000 worth of prizes up for grabs so why not join in. Or just do some of the mini hunts to exercise your brain.

ArtEZan are sponsors and hope you enjoy our mini hunt.

We are also offering 10% off with the hunt discount code so why not sign up for that!

Zanz hand dyed stocking!!!

2011-02-09T14:22:00.003+11:00

Yep Zanz hand dyed is stocking!!!!

A small first stocking of the year with some cottons, bamboos and Woolganics.

We've been very quiet on the dyeing front recently but with the kids back to school I'm so excited to being back into it.

The new colourways will go live tomorrow night, Thursday 10th February at 8pm Sydney time.

2011!!!

2011-01-15T18:58:00.002+11:00

Well 2011 is here!!!

Sorry for the quietness on the blog. I've had a frantic last term and birthday/Christmas season and hardly anytime to do more than send out orders.

But in 2 weeks the kids are back at school and dd3 will be at preschool for 2 days a week! Yah! I have lots of plans for both Zanz hand dyed and ArtEZan.

I'm 1/2 way through dyeing for a February stocking.

And we will once again be sponsoring the Great Down Under Nappy Hunt through March. There will be lots of exciting specials, giveaways and stockings so make sure you are on our Facebook and following us on Twitter (artezanau)

15 % OFF STOREWIDE at ArtEZan today only

2010-10-31T15:35:00.001+11:00

15% off Storewide. Including all Zanz hand dyed yarn, undyed yarn, dyes, bookmarks, stitchmarkers, hair accessories, knits and children's clothing!!!
Pop on over and grab a treat for yourself or stock up for Christmas.

Breast Cancer Awareness Week Fundraiser at Murasaki Mama

2010-10-18T19:49:00.002+11:00

Check out all the lovely products that are starting to auction tonight on Murasaki Mama for the great cause of Breast Cancer Awareness. ArtEZan are very pleased to be part of this great fundraiser and have donated two pink themed items - a stunning pair of Swarovski crystal earrings and a pink jasper and silver heart bookmark.

There are a couple of items I'm going to be bidding on, lovely hand made products for a worthy cause.

Haircuts

2010-10-05T21:34:00.005+11:00

We all went to the hairdressers today for haircuts. Here are the girls after theirs. Probably not the best photo to show off the cuts as they were all braided/styled as well.

And to show how long Lara's was before the cut. She didn't have much off just the bottom ratty bits so it's still down to her waist (looks shorter in the photo above than it is). So we have survived the first haircut, lol, and she was great after worrying about how much would be taken off.

Shopolat Treasure Hunt

2010-10-01T13:14:00.002+10:00

Well the September 2010 Cloth Nappy Hunt is now finished. I hope that everyone who participated enjoyed the hunts and found some great new websites.

For everyone who is suffering hunt deprivation starting today is the Shopolat Treasure Hunt.

Each day for 5 days there will be 6 stores with 3 clues each to be found.

Each hunt starts at 8pm and runs for 24 hours. If you are struggling there will be hints on the Shopolat Facebook page from 12 noon (on the day after the hunt starts).

This is a quick, easy fun hunt that shouldn't stretch the mind too much.

Head over to http://www.shopolat.com.au//pages/Treasure-Hunt.html to find out more and register to hunt.

ArtEZan are up on the first day so hope you join in this hunt tonight. Clues go up on the Shopolat website and also sent out by email at 8pm.

Zanz hand dyed stocking - Wednesday 29th September at ArtEZan

2010-09-28T13:14:00.003+10:00

Stocking of hand dyed yarns by Zanz, tomorrow night Wednesday 29th September.

Cottons and merino.

8pm Sydney time.

Purple 3 month girls top

2010-09-20T14:12:00.002+10:00

Will be putting this gorgeous girls top up in the store tonight.

It's hand knit in the softest most gorgeous silk merino handspun. Just gorgeous, a really extra special clothing item.

This is knit using Shannon's brilliant Versa pattern http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/versa

in a 3 month size.

Remember to check out our facebook page for our daily specials during the Cloth Nappy Hunt.

Purple silk merino hand spun

2010-09-03T18:47:00.003+10:00

Haven't been doing much spinning lately and really missing it.

Just finished this one. It is a merino and silk blend and the most gorgeous shades of purple. I really love this!!!

Knitteds stocking at ArtEZan

2010-09-01T08:21:00.003+10:00

To start the Cloth Nappy Hunt I am stocking some knitteds at 12 noon (AEST).

There are hand spun and hand dyed shorties, girly capris and soakers.

Head over to ArtEZan at 12 o'clock

The Cloth Nappy Hunt is here!!!

2010-09-01T08:16:00.002+10:00

It's the first day of spring and the first day of the Great Down Under Nappy Hunt!!!!

ArtEZan are very excited to be a sponsor and we have put up a little mini hunt to find our icon, hope everyone enjoys it.

Remember you get 10% off with your hunter code. And make sure you are following us on facebook or twitter to be in with a chance to be the first to nab our daily Super September Special - 30% off an item from across the range.

Zanz hand dyed stocking tonight on ArtEZan

2010-08-24T10:01:00.002+10:00

Zanz hand dyed stocking tonight at 8pm Sydney time.

There is merino, silk merino, bamboo, cotton and a few lots of the gorgeous Woolganics Organic Merino.

Head over to ArtEZan to nab one of these lovely colourways tonight.

20% off Stitch markers with yarn purchase at ArtEZan

2010-08-19T10:05:00.001+10:00

Get a great 20% discount on any stitch markers added to a yarn purchase at ArtEZan.

Enter code 20SY at checkout.

Offer valid till the end of the month.

The Essential Knitter's Kit

2010-08-16T19:53:00.004+10:00

Just listed some lovely little kits on ArtEZan.

The Essential Knitter's Kit contains

a retractable tape measure
a pair of folding stainless steel scissors
yarn needles
and you can add a set of stitch markers for 20% off to complete the set.
All in the most gorgeous little bag (various colours and patterns in stock)

These are perfect for keeping all your essentials in your project bag together and safe - I came up with the idea after losing a yarn needle.

The perfect gift for knitters or a lovely treat for yourself.

Undyed yarn now in stock

2010-08-16T13:11:00.003+10:00

Just had a massive box of undyed yarn delivered. Oh so so soft - lovely merino, organic merino and bfl. Most of this has just gone up instore (some I've kept, lol).

I will be stocking some dyes in the next week for anyone who wants to give dyeing a go.

Folding stainless steel scissors

2010-08-13T18:48:00.001+10:00

Just added some great folding stainless steel scissors to ArtEZan - these are great sturdy scissors but fold up to fit into your project bag and won't catch on anything. A real essential for knitters, crocheters or sewers.

Excited about what I've made for the Breast Cancer Fundraiser

2010-08-12T15:38:00.004+10:00

I've just finished the items ArtEZan are donating to the Breast Cancer Fundraiser at will be running at Murasaki Mama in October.

They will have a store running all through October with an auction of great WAHP products running from the 18th to the 25th (Pink Ribbon Day) of October.

I know there are a few things I'll be bidding on!

15% off addi circular knitting needles on ArtEZan

2010-08-12T10:54:00.003+10:00

15% off all addi circular knitting needles on ArtEZan this week. Addi's are lovely premium needles favoured by professional knitters. Made in Germany they are high quality and a delight to knit with.

New stock - retractable tape measures

2010-08-11T12:00:00.003+10:00

Just added some retractable tape measures to the accessories section on ArtEZan

Perfect for popping in your project bag and in lovely bright colours.

Great for knitters, sewers or crocheters or just handy to have around the house. The tape measure is 150 cm long when fully extended. Being retractable they don't get tangled and are a lovely compact design.

New Specials!! New Stock!!

2010-08-08T16:22:00.003+10:00

A couple of new things on ArtEZan today.

I've changed all the products on special so head on over to check out this months bargains!! Products across the range discounted by 15-40%!!!

Also added the first in a new range of lovely boxed kits. This is a travel sewing emergency kit perfect for keeping in your bag, car or on holiday.

Custom longies for Rachael

2010-08-07T13:16:00.002+10:00

Just finished these longies for Rachael.

I love them, hope she does.

Made by Karla x stocking at ArtEZan Thursday 5th

2010-08-04T11:26:00.001+10:00

A massive stocking (over 50 sets) of stitch markers from Made by Karla.

Stocking tomorrow night - Thursday 5th August

on ArtEZan

Custom for Giselle

2010-08-04T10:17:00.003+10:00

300g DK bamboo in Purples with Jade trim.

I can't wait to see this one knitted up - I think I will have to do one for me!

Custom for Rachael

2010-08-01T09:41:00.002+10:00

Custom for Rachael dyed up.

Hopefully it will be fully dry today (yah for the sun finally coming out in Sydney!) so I can start to knit it up tonight.

Just finished this top

2010-07-28T10:40:00.002+10:00

8ply cotton newborn top.

This is so lovely and soft, I want one!

How to : Make a Chinese Knot Button Closure

2010-07-28T10:28:00.002+10:00

How to:

Make a Chinese Knot Button Closure

A really simple and lovely closure for knitted garments uses a Chinese button knot.

Firstly you need to make a knitted i-cord (I will create an entry explaining how to do this so keep an eye out if you don’t know) with 3 stitches about 28-30 cm long. (or see below for other material ideas)

Chinese Button knot
1. Lay the cord in a circle counterclockwise

2. Lay a second counterclockwise circle on top of this one slightly to the right

3. Take the end under the starting cord
4. Weave the end over, under, over under the circles.

5. Slowly work the knot tight until the ends are even and you have a neat knot.

To use this Chinese knot as a button closure you will need to make a loop for it to fit through.
Knit another 3 stitch i-cord around 25cm long.
Tie a slip knot, leaving a loop about 2.5 cm long and make sure the ends are even.

Sew this in place onto the back of the garment.
Different results can be obtained by using cord, ribbon, several different yarns held together etc for the knot as well as contrasting yarn i-cord. There are also lots of other lovely decorative Chinese knots to create different effects.

Subscribe by Email

2010-07-27T19:49:00.002+10:00

By popular request I've just added a link so you can subscribe to my blog via email.

If you want to be the first to see posts and keep up to date then you can enter your email address (the form is on the right) to subscribe.

Zanz hand dyed stocking - Wed 28th July

2010-07-26T20:42:00.003+10:00

Sneak peak of Wednesday nights stocking.

There is woolganics organic merino, bfl, sock/4ply yarn, bamboo and merino.

Go live is 8pm Sydney (AEST) time at ArtEZan http://www.artezan.com.au

Pattern of the Week - Cat in dark night, baby blanket

2010-07-26T11:14:00.003+10:00

I think is ever so cute. A Cat in dark night, two colour pattern, great for a baby blanket, part of a larger blanket or quilt pattern or a large wash cloth?

Perfect for any cat lover.

The pattern is found at http://tricotinons.over-blog.com/pages/Baby_blanket_block_Cat_in_dark_night-3446717.html

Zanz hand dyed stocking this week

2010-07-25T13:48:00.002+10:00

Zanz hand dyed will be stocking this week at ArtEZan - a couple of sneak peaks at what will be available! There will be hand dyed merino, bamboo and sock yarn.

Great Down Under Nappy Hunt!

2010-07-21T16:45:00.004+10:00

ArtEZan are pleased to announce that we have been accepted as sponsors for the September Great Down Under Nappy Hunt.

This great internet scavenger hunt runs all through September, there are great prizes to be won and lots of fun searching for the icons as well as visiting a lot of interesting websites.

I'm planning lots of great stockings and ideas for the month so watch this space.

ArtEZan have donated two prizes.

This lovely bookmark - made with top quality black onyx and pink gemstone chips, a silver heart on a lovely large fancy bookmark.

and this stunning bamboo yarn in Meadow colourway which is a lovely blend of shades of green.

Now the school holidays are over I've started dyeing again and looking forward to stocking up ArtEZan.

New Stitch markers on ArtEZan

2010-07-13T19:30:00.003+10:00

Just listed some new stitch markers on ArtEZan. Several sets on the great solid oval rings - these won't snag your knitting and with the oval design slide very easily between needles. Including silver and blue beads and stunning feature beads.

And this set with gorgeous blue and flower cube beads. Really lovely markers.

How exciting - I just got a Thermomix

2010-07-08T15:55:00.002+10:00

I'm very excited that I just received my Thermomix. I've been eyeing off these great kitchen tools for awhile and finally got one.

Can't wait to start creating lovely meals (dinner for tonight is already ready but will make sorbet or custard for dessert.

I will also be blogging my journey with the Thermomix and what I make at: http://thermomixmeals.blogspot.com/

And here is my lovely new appliance all ready to go.

Hand dyed baby cotton muslin wraps

2010-07-08T15:53:00.002+10:00

Just listed some more of the popular extra large cotton baby muslin wraps at ArtEZan

20% off stitch markers this week

2010-06-28T13:30:00.000+10:00

20% off stitch markers at ArtEZan until Friday.

All our lovely stitch markers including the cute creations from Made by Karla x are on special this week. So grab a bargain to cheer up your winter knitting.

Pattern: Crochet Mobius Headbands

2010-06-23T19:47:00.002+10:00

Pattern of the week:

These are really cute and quick crochet mobius headbands.

http://www.classiceliteyarns.com/WebLetter/144/Issue144.php

for more information on this great free pattern.

Want to make a few of these. The girls are really into wearing headbands at the moment too.

Twitter tool

2010-06-23T14:07:00.001+10:00

Love this website http://search.twitter.com to find tweets about things you are interested in.

Yarn weight comparisons and WPI gauge

2010-06-21T11:10:00.002+10:00

The following is a very useful little table outlining the common US names for yarn weight, the UK or Australian ply weight equivalents and also the WPI (wraps per inch) for each.

A WPI gauge tool is a very useful accessory for working out the weight of yarns. You simply wrap the yarn around the inch measure and count the number of times it comfortably wraps around. Essential for spinners and so useful for any knitter.

We stock WPI gauges as well as knitter's needle tools and other knitting accessories and Addi needles at ArtEZan.

US Weight	UK/Aus	WPI
Lace	2 ply	30+
Fingering	4 ply	19-22
Sport	5 ply	15-18
DK	8 ply	12-14
Worsted	10 ply	9-11
Aran	12 ply	8-10
Bulky/Chunky	14-16 ply	7-8
Super Bulky	20 ply	<6

Zanz Green Days hand dyed yarn stocking Monday 14th

2010-06-12T17:16:00.004+10:00

Zanz Hand dyed yarn

Stocking Monday 14th June

8pm Sydney time

Green Days

Hand dyed and hand painted yarn

Organic merino, merino, bfl, sock, bamboo, cotton

This weeks stocking has a Green Days theme, all the yarns have a basis in Green.

Yep I know a shock from me!!! As I'm well known for not being keen on green but as the first few I dyed all had some green I decided to continue with the theme with a couple of favourites such as Lime Sea and Arbor.

Bree Tanner - Twilight Novella

2010-06-12T10:04:00.003+10:00

I read the new Stephenie Meyer book last night.

The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner is available for free from http://www.breetanner.com/ until July 5th 2010.

It follows the vampire life of Bree the newborn who surrenders to the Cullens in Eclipse.

I really enjoyed this short story. It was, as always, well written and really made me think about nature vs nurture and how the environment/peer pressure/education affects behaviour.

A great read for any Twilight fans.

Knit in Public Day

2010-06-12T08:14:00.002+10:00

So it's the time of the worldwide knit in public days.

In Sydney this weekend we have:

Kenthurst Saturday 10am

The Rocks Saturday 1.30pm

Newtown Saturday 10.30am

To find your local WWKIP go to http://www.wwkipday.com/find_kip.htm

Made by Karla x stocking at ArtEZan at 8pm

2010-06-11T19:54:00.002+10:00

Just a reminder for anyone wanting some cute stitch markers, lots of pretties from Made by Karla x will be going live on ArtEZan in 5 minutes.

Cute cupcakes - Featured pattern

2010-06-09T21:38:00.003+10:00

How cute are these cupcakes!

I'm starting to highlight some lovely free patterns I find so keep an eye out for the Featured patterns on my blog.

http://jenacrochet.blogspot.com/2010/06/cupcakes.html

I definitely think I need to make some of these. La would love to add them to her food stash.

Made by Karla x stocking at ArtEZan this Friday

2010-06-09T19:14:00.004+10:00

ArtEZan are very pleased to announce that Made by Karla x has joined the ArtEZan team.

The first stocking of Karla's great stitchmarkers will be this Friday night.

11 June at 8pm Sydney time.

Custom for Lee

2010-06-09T14:34:00.000+10:00

DK Organic Merino in pinks and purples. Yummy!

How to back up and reset Sony EricssonW910i

2010-06-09T13:51:00.002+10:00

How to back up and reset mobile phone - Sony Ericcson W910i (and probably other similar SE phones)

I couldn't remember how to do this and nothing came up on a search so had to play around for ages this morning. (This phone keeps failing so messaging doesn't work unless you reset it).

So for anyone else wondering - To back up your contacts onto the SIM from the phone memory.

Go to Contacts - New Contact - Options (left key) - Advanced - Copy to USIM

Then when they are all copied you need to reset your phone.

Settings - General (tab) - Master Reset

When it restarts and you go through the basic configuration (date/time) it will offer to copy the numbers back off the SIM card.

Thought I'd blog this incase anyone else can't find this information.

Hand dyed bodysuits and tops

2010-06-08T18:52:00.002+10:00

Just added some cute hand dyed and appliqued babies bodysuits and a size 2 spencer/top at ArtEZan http://www.artezan.com.au

Win a $20 ArtEZan Gift Voucher

2010-06-08T11:17:00.002+10:00

One lucky newsletter subscriber will be picked at random to win a $20 ArtEZan Gift Voucher.

The draw will take place on Friday 18th June.

So head on over and create an account at http://www.artezan.com.au and subscribe to our newsletter for a chance of winning.

Let your friends know about this great opportunity to try some of the lovely items at ArtEZan.

Knitter's needle gauges

2010-06-08T10:37:00.003+10:00

Another NEW accessory added at ArtEZan.

Knitter's needle gauge. The most useful knitting tool around.

Work out what size that stray needle is quickly and easily.

Convert easily from US to metric (mm) needle sizes.

Measure your gauge on a swatch (has mm and inch rulers).

Such a useful little tool (I wouldn't be without mine as I'm always leaving needles lying around)

Addi Knitting Needles and Self Locking Stitch Markers

2010-06-07T14:30:00.003+10:00

A couple of new lines for ArtEZan.

Just stocked a number of Addi Premium circular knitting needles. Top quality knitting needles made in Germany that will really add a new dimension to your knitting experience, your projects will fly off the needles in no time with these lovely needles.

Stocked are some 80 cm needles - a great length for straight or larger circular knitting, very versatile and good for magic loop knitting. Hard to find 30cm needles - perfect for legs on longies, 40cm needles - perfect for baby and children's knits.

And self locking stitch markers. Available in sets of 4 in lots of funky colours (red, blue, pink, white and black), these stitchmarkers are great for knitting and crochet. At a bargain price they are great to bulk up your stitchmarker stash.

Worldwide Knit in Public Day

2010-06-01T19:31:00.005+10:00

Worldwide Knit in Public day is coming soon!!!

June 12th to 20th 2010

Fancy hosting a KIP or joining one then head over to http://www.wwkipday.com for more information and find when and where there is a local KIP.

I think this is a great idea to make people realise knitting is an old fashioned fuddy duddy grandma thing to do - and show off the beautiful vibrant yarns around.

MASSIVE SALE

2010-05-31T10:45:00.004+10:00

2 DAY SALE!!!

Massive sale covering most store wide products.

All yarn - hand dyed, commercial dyed, hand spun - a huge 30% off.

All Zanz hand dyed socks, aprons, bags, washcloths and baby muslin wraps - 30% off

Children's clothing, bookmarks, stitchmarkers and jewellery - 25% off

All Zanz knits including longies, hats, baby cocoons, booties - 15% off

Slings - adult and children's - 15% off
Hair accessories (Zanz and Made by Sarah) - 15% off

Help me celebrate my husband's birthday and grab a BARGAIN!!!!

Hand dyed skivvy

2010-05-30T13:24:00.002+10:00

I've just listed these super cute skivvies on ArtEZan.

Hand dyed for a unique skivvy to keep your little one warm this winter.

The girls love these tops - just need to source some plain skivvies big enough for the older girls as they want one too.

NEW - Girls Bolero Shrug with hand knit and hand dyed flower embellishment

2010-05-28T16:37:00.003+10:00

I've just stocked some super cute little girl's bolero shrugs on ArtEZan - Sizes 1-3 in white, pink and purple.

These super cute shrugs have been embellished with hand dyed and hand knit flowers to make a lovely unique special cardigan for your little girl.

Dress for Kira

2010-05-28T12:05:00.001+10:00

Just finished this dress for dd1. Knit in BWM Luxury - the top hand dyed gradient by Kaleidoskein and the bottom in Ghost.

Funky Cotton Pants

2010-05-26T10:09:00.003+10:00

Made up these three pairs of funky elasticated waist cotton trousers yesterday. Now I just need to decide if three new pairs of trousers for La is too much (esp as I just opened two boxes of hand-me-downs for her!) Maybe I should sell a couple?

Anyone want some cheap Size 2-3 trousers?

Not sure what needle size???

2010-05-24T11:24:00.004+10:00

Found some yarn and you aren't sure what needle size to use?

Double up the yarn and find the hole on your needle gauge that it fits through nicely (not too tight, not too loose) to get an idea of the best needle size.

Remember to swatch if you are working to a pattern.

Hand dyed wool and longies stocking - tonight

2010-05-24T09:57:00.004+10:00

Zanz hand dyed stocking tonight on ArtEZan

Merino, BFL, superwash, fibre and longies.

8pm Sydney time - Monday 24 May.

Knitting, knitting, knitting

2010-05-23T21:56:00.000+10:00

So why when I have loads of winter knitting in my queue have I agreed to do a summer dress for my 6 year old!! Knitting, knitting, knitting, getting tired of it, lol.

TODAY ONLY - 25% off Zanz hand dyed sock yarn

2010-05-23T10:54:00.004+10:00

Just decided to do a One Day Sale on Sock yarn!!!

A massive 25% OFF all day 23 May.

Get into winter with a lovely pair of unique hand dyed knitted socks.

Two pairs of longies

2010-05-19T13:58:00.003+10:00

Just finished these two pairs of longies, both destined for the store (stocking Monday 24th is the plan).

S/M Girly "Midnight Sunset" longies in hand dyed BFL with black contrast trim and flower embellishments.

M Handspun longies in blues. The super super softness and interest of texture of hand spun yarn in a lovely colourway of blues with a little purple. These are I think quite unisex depending on what they are teemed with.

Support a WAHP

2010-05-19T13:18:00.002+10:00

This is a great group that work to promote Work at Home Parents.

I love being able to support other WAHM's and WAHP's and know that what I am purchasing is made ethically and with love - never mind you can get such cute and different stuff!

The Golden Ratio - Creating pleasing stripes Tip

2010-05-18T18:47:00.003+10:00

Just found this interesting article

http://www.knitting-and.com/knitting/tips/fibonaccistuff.htm

that explains mathematically how to get pleasing proportions in design - The Golden Ratio!

Think of how many things are designed on a 3:5 type ratio - buildings, paper etc.

The Golden Ratio is approx 1:1.62 so when thinking of stripes or patterns keep that in mind.

It's mathematically explained in the above article.

Zanz Bamboo Slouch Beret Pattern now available

2010-05-15T16:47:00.001+10:00

I've written up the pattern for the Bamboo Slouch Beret below and it is now available for free from ArtEZan

Happy Knitting.

Zanz Bamboo Slouch Beret

2010-05-15T09:38:00.004+10:00

I knit this hat this week.

With the weather getting colder I needed a new hat (I can't find my favourite from last year!). Beanie hats just don't suit me so I wanted something that whilst could cover my ears and keep me warm had a bit more movement to it and flattered my head shape better, lol. So hence the slouch beret.

This hat is knit using gorgeous DK bamboo - so soft and comfy whilst still providing warmth.

The yarn is hand dyed bamboo from Zanz - stocked at ArtEZan.

I will be writing up the pattern this weekend and publishing it on ArtEZan.

Hand knit, felted and material bag

2010-05-14T20:34:00.004+10:00

Finished this last week for a swap.

I love this bag!!!

Hand knit and felted with a matching sewn material panel and magnetic clasp.

Need to do a few refinements on the pattern and I am definitely going to make one of these for myself!

Long tail cast on - How to gauge how much yarn needed

2010-05-14T20:28:00.005+10:00

This came up with some friends yesterday.

How do you know how much yarn to allow when doing a long tail cast on.

A simple yet effective method to ensure you don't have too long or worse too short a tail (so you have to redo the cast on when you run out of tail part way through casting on) is to wind the yarn around the needle a number of times corresponding to the number of stitches you need to cast on.

Note if you wind on top of previous loops you will end up with extra tail.

Let us know what you think

2010-05-10T19:03:00.001+10:00

As ArtEZan has been running for over a month now I've set up a survey to find out what people like/dislike about it.

Please pop on over to ArtEZan and fill out the survey - you will also go into the draw for a FREE POST voucher.

30% OFF Hand dyed socks, aprons and bags

2010-05-10T12:08:00.003+10:00

Post Mother's Day Sale!!

30% off all Zanz hand dyed socks, aprons and bags.

Didn't get what you wanted for Mother's Day? Got money to treat yourself?

How about a unique and lovely hand dyed item for a unique and lovely Mum!

Grab a bargain as I've discounted all of this line by a MASSIVE 30%!!!

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T10:53:00.002+10:00

Happy Mother's Day to everyone who is celebrating it today.

Hope you are being spoilt rotten and you have got lots of lovely pressies and the school stalls were good this year!

dd1 and dd2 got me a fold up printed bag and a fridge magnet jotter from the school stall.

dd2 also made me a plaster frangipani.

dd3's preschool made a gorgeous book with photos, pictures and paintings - amazing considering she only goes once a week. Thank you Enchanted Treetops preschool!

I also got an itunes voucher and a lovely cooked breakfast (which I needed after going for a walk in the cold!)

Zan

Super Saturday SALE - 25% off

2010-05-08T08:34:00.004+10:00

Super Saturday Sale - Today only

A massive 25% off all Zanz hand dyed yarn.

Grab a bargain for your winter knitting.

There is wool - merino, organic merino, bfl, superwash, sock, tops; cotton - 4,8, 10, 12 ply; DK bamboo and more in stock.
So head over to ArtEZan to grab a bargain for your winter knitting projects.