Vickie Howell's Blog: Vickie Howell's Website, page 57

Photo Recap: Market Bag Crochet Pin-along

[image error]







Our very first, Crochet Pin-along was a blast! Collecting images on a community Pinterest board is such a cool way to crochet-along a project together. We (myself, Bernat & the Jo-Ann team) loved seeing pictures of fellow crocheter's Market Bag supplies, works-in-progress (WIPs), and finished objects (FOs). In case you missed it though, here's a glimpse of the #joannCPAL fun.


















Getting started (or "chaining on" as I like to call it)



L-R: Bag Beginnings by, Stephanie Mrse, Roxanne Barnes & Leah Ames.










How to: Mesh Stitch























Progress



L-R: WIPs by, Carolyn Watling, Rene' Shaft & Theresa Wills-Smith










Finished Bags!



L-R: Bags by, Costa's Crafty Corner, Janet Watling, Carolyn Watling, Janet Watling (V.2) 

& Melissa Norris






You can see more CPAL photos on Pinterest, here. Still want to make a Market Bag? Please do! You can get the pattern here, and Cotton-ish yarn at select Jo-ann Stores and during July, on sale at Bernat.com for 25 % off (enter code: BERNATSELECT13)!



Since the CPAL is something we made up, it was definitely a learning experience. Do you have any suggestions for making our next pin-along even more successful? Please post your comments!





xx,

Vickie

Pinterest.com/iamvickiehowell



Psst! This bag will make great teacher gifts. Stockpile now before the school year rush begins! 

New Cotton-ish Pattern + Parenthook Column!

The latest Parenthook column and pattern are out in the Summer '13 issue of Interweave Crochet. This round's theme focuses on the reality of juggling too many things in our lives, and as always supplies a quick-but-gratifying-to-make project. 

















Shown in Bernat Cotton-ish by Vickie Howell, in color: Seersucker





The Babylace dress featured is based on those adorable, vintage pillowcase dresses you see photos of all over the web. Make it long like we did here, or shorten it for a tunic top look. It'd also be adorable on a baby worn with a wee pair of bloomers. An easy and breezy project for the little lady in your life. Make one in every color of Cotton-ish and she'll be set for the summer.







Get 25% off of Cotton-ish for this project today!




After the dress is made, where will she wear it? How about to a tea party? Check out my Pinterest board round-up of some of my favorite playtime ideas. Enjoy!




xx, 

Vickie

Jo-ann HQ Visit Photo Recap

Hey there! As those of you who follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter already know, I spent last week shooting videos for Joann.com on Behalf of Bernat. In case you missed 'em, here are a few shots from the trip. Enjoy! 









 Fun fact: Jo-ann Stores Corporate offices are in a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio.











Behind the scenes on the Jo-Ann, off-site video set.









 My view from the "host" position.











 Bernat Dippity Dots set-up for Supreemie Hat demo video.














Right before the "Action!" started.


















Set-up for the Sheep(ish) Stripes hexagon motif demo used in my Hexi Baby Blanket. Pattern in stores and online this Fall!











With awesome Jo-ann Inspiration & Web producers, Karen & Krissy.











Jo-ann HQ.








Google+ Hangout with Angela from the Jo-ann web team's office. See the video of viewer questions answered on their YouTube channel!










Dinner with my friend, Shannon Okey of Co-operative Press.







Stay tuned for the how-to videos and accompanying patterns on Joann.com soon!




xx,

Vickie

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: Knitting Daily TV with Vickie Howell!

“Knitting Daily TV” is now

“Knitting Daily TV with Vickie Howell”




Longest Continuously Running Knitting Program on Public Television

Names Popular New Host








Photo courtesy of: Bernat Yarns


LOVELAND, CO – June 14, 2013 – Jamie Bogner, VP and Group Publisher for Interweave, a division of F+W Media, announced today that DIY lifestyle and needle arts expert Vickie Howell will be the new host and co-executive producer of “Knitting Daily TV,” a how-to program on public television that brings yarn and fiber center stage.

“I’m truly thrilled to be joining the KDTV family, and can’t wait to be back in fellow stitchers’ living rooms sharing my passion for yarn-crafts and the vibrant community surrounding it,” says Vickie. Well-known to many in the craft industry, Vickie was the host and creative consultant of the DIY Network and HGTV’s show “Knitty Gritty” for 8 seasons. Additionally, she was the co-host of DIY’s “Stylelicious,” Lifetime Television’s web series “CRAFTED,” as well as several craft-based TV specials.

“We are so excited to have Vickie join us as the new face of “Knitting Daily TV,” said Interweave’s Yarn Group Editorial Director Karin Strom. “She will continue to bring viewers the in-depth needle arts programming they expect, while adding her own fresh and accessible approach.”

Working with familiar “Knitting Daily TV” guests as well as a new lineup of the best knitting designers, authors, and instructors, Vickie’s role as host ushers in a new chapter for the venerable Interweave brand. “Her thoughtful approach to sharing the love of knitting and crochet drew us to her,” said Strom, “and we’re excited that she’ll help us share that same love of needlework with over 140-million potential viewers across the US!”

Vickie’s knit and crochet designs have been featured in hundreds of publications worldwide, she has a regular column in Interweave Crochet magazine, and she has authored numerous best-selling craft books. In addition, Vickie is International Spokesperson for Bernat Yarn, with whom she has launched three co-branded yarns: Sheep(ish) by Vickie Howell, Sheep(ish) Stripes by Vickie Howell, and Cotton(ish) by Vickie Howell.




Vickie is a board member of the Central & South Texas Chapter of the Epilepsy Foundation and founder of the Purple Stitch Project to benefit children with seizure disorders. She lives in Austin, Texas, with her family.

“Knitting Daily TV,” currently in its eleventh season, is the longest continuously running knitting program on public television. Formerly known as “Needle Arts Studio with Shay Pendray,” it became “Knitting Daily TV” in 2010 under host Eunny Jang, and will now be named “Knitting Daily TV with Vickie Howell.” Guiding viewers on how to make fun yet stylish knitwear and crochet patterns and projects, “Knitting Daily TV with Vickie Howell” maintains the show’s spirit by sharing great tips, techniques, knitalongs and more. 




About Interweave

Interweave is one of the nation’s largest and most respected arts and craft media companies, with businesses in magazine and book publishing, online media, television and video programming, directories, and events. Visit us online at www.interweave.com.




About F+W Media, Inc.

F+W Media, Inc. is a community-focused, content creator and marketer of products and services for enthusiasts. The Company offers a diversified and deep portfolio of books, ebooks, magazines, industry-leading events, more than 20 highly-curated stores, extensive online educational programming, DVD and video instruction, television programs, and more. In the craft and sewing space, the Company’s leading brands include Interweave Press and The Martha Pullen Company. Please visit www.fwmedia.com for more. 





For more information contact Tommy Semosh, ph: 212 447 1400 x 12263  |  email: Tommy.Semosh@fwmedia.com

New Free Pattern for Dad: Family Ties!

Just in the nick of time for dad's day my latest Cotton-ish pattern, Family Ties -- a seed stitch, skinny tie -- is up on Bernat.com. Make this gift for the man in your life 





Shown in Cotton-ish, color: Gun Powder




Happy Father's Day!



xx,

Vickie



P.S. Your welcome ladies, for the modeled shot above. ;-)

Dollar Bin Yarn "Bowls"

Yarn bowls (containers to keep your working ball of yarn from rolling off a table and getting tangled) are a handy tool. Unfortunately, they're often expensive and tend to be fairly traditional-looking. The cool thing though is that really, any container with a smooth hole on the side of it will do the job. Enter the bright spot in my bargain shopper's heart: these grommeted cardboard boxes! I love the bright colors, metallic accents and modern prints. They're also just the right size to hold a ball of yarn. The best part, though? I found them in the dollar bin! Be still my crafty heart.

Girls (Painting) Night Out

Over the weekend I set down my needles and picked up a paint brush while out with a few of my girlfriends. One of the 5,324 reasons I love living in Austin is that there are places like Geeberry Art Studios that offer BYOB-learn-to-paint evenings out. Now I don't know jack (or in this case, Jackalope) about artistic painting, so this was definitely out of my crafty comfort zone. However, when friends ask you if you'd like to go drink wine and paint a mythical creature the only reasonable answer is, "yes".




Here are some shots of how the paintings come together. Studio owner/instructor Jenny Granberry made the process easy to understand, and super fun. While there's no threat of me giving up professional knitting/crochet any time soon in favor of becoming an accomplished painter, I will definitely work in this medium again. If for nothing else, to give myself a little, non-work related creative boost.




Don't forget to to set some time aside every once in a while to replenish that creative well of yours!




xx,

Vickie





Step-by-step, my Jackalope began coming together.









Clockwise: Gretchen Otto, Kristin Laing, Jennifer Perkins, me & Noelle Corcoran.







My finished painting! It's random but hey, my daughter wants it in her room so I'm happy.

Tri-light Kerchief: Extended Cut

Show in colors: Cotton Gin and Gun Powder








My Tri-light  kerchief offers a splash of color to any outfit. Knit from the center out, two triangles become one, larger version. This shawl technique is a favorite of mine because it miraculously takes shape before your eyes as you knit. It seems complicated until you try it -- then, a few rows in it'll make sense. I talk more about this method here.  




Often though, it's not a new-to-you technique that makes for a more dynamic project -- the ol' standbys that can pack a lot of visual punch! Take for example: stripes.










Above is Tri-light made following the instructions on the label of Cotton-ish. It's simple in a solid, but still interesting because of the juxtaposition of a bulkier texture (made with garter stitch) against a loftier, lace edging. Add a contrasting color (a dark one if you're going for funky) and stripe the lace -- while also extending the lace for several repeats -- and you get a surprisingly different look!











Make this project, then make it your own. Get the pattern here and the yarn at select Jo-ann Stores and on Bernat.com.



xx,

Vickie

Cotton-ish Online + Yes, Yes Shawl Pattern!

Many of you have been faithfully stalking your local Jo-ann store in hope of finding my new yarn, but unfortunately have struck out (there's still a couple more days for them to get it set-up). First off, I just have to say that that makes me feel all gushy inside. Second, I wanted to let you know that the amazing web team at Bernat (shout out to: Cori, Jen, Kaleigh & Amanda!) hustled their butts off to make Bernat Cotton-ish by Vickie Howell available for purchase online for stitchers NOW! 


The Bernat Design Team and I have put together a cool, fun and accessible launch collection to inspire you. I'll take time over the coming weeks to talk about each of them (as well as introduce more!), but today I thought I'd feature one of my favorites by my friend, Nicole: the Yes, Yes Shawl .





Yes Yes Shawl, in color: Lemon Twill








The same shawl can be pretty and sweet, and funky and chic depending on how you wear it. Wrap it around your shoulders for a flirty and feminine look, or wear it like an oversized scarf (I prefer jauntily askew) for a cool and relaxed feel.















Well, whattya waiting for? Head on over to Bernat.com now to nab some Cotton-ish and a free pattern or two to go with it!







xx,

Vickie




P.S. Don't forget to fave/stash it on Ravelry, too!

Bernat Cotton-ish by Vickie Howell: In Stores this Week!

I'm so excited to announce that it's finally time to "officially" announce the latest, co-branded yarn in my line: Bernat Cotton-ish by Vickie Howell ! Beginning this week (anytime between now and 5/11), you'll be able to find it on encaps (that shelving on the end of the aisle) at select, Jo-ann Stores and on Joann.com.



Bernat Cotton-ish by Vickie Howell (just Cotton-ish, for short), is a lightweight, 55% cotton/45% acrylic blend with a tight twist to give it a sproing-y hand. It's lovely, airy drape is perfect for a variety of items including baby layette, toddler clothing, women's tops, lacy shawls, summer beanies, cafe curtains and placemats.













Cotton-ish comes in the rich, saturated colors that are signature to my modern-meets-retro-chic aesthetic. While creating this line, I took to heart the frequent requests I get from mom stitchers who are sick of traditional pastels for babies. Whether you're making something for infant, adult or home, the palette of this line speaks to the trend of mixing bold color with cool neutrals. Each color was hand-picked by me -- using everything from fabric to found objects as inspiration -- and named after something cotton-related (you know how I love a theme!)





Gauge & Washing Info





If you're a fan of my other yarn, Sheep(ish) but prefer not to work with wool during the warmer months, then Cotton-ish is for you! Throughout the Spring and Summer keep your eyes open for new, season-appropriate patterns, blog giveaways, Pinterest galleries, a crochet-along, and more!




In the meantime, here's a look at the free patterns that come on the yarn ball labels.










Free pattern on the yarn label: Tri-Light Kerchief
Shown in color: Cotton Gin










Free pattern on the yarn label:  Sweet & Simple Sundress

Shown in color: Cotton Harvest








Free pattern on the yarn label:  Mai Tie

Shown in colors: Cotton Field & Grey T-shirt






Free pattern on the yarn label: Market Bag
Shown in color: Lemon Twill








To find a store near you that carries Vickie Howell for Bernat yarns, check out my store locator app. 




Are you a LYS owner who will be carrying Cotton-ish in your store? Post your info so I can add the shop to the finder list!









Psst! I haven't seen it in stores, yet. First person to snap a picture of it from your local Jo-ann or indie store, gets a free bag (3 balls) of Cotton-ish! Just post a link in the comments section of this blog or share a photo on my Facebook wall!




xx,

Vickie

Facebook.com/vickiehowell



Bernat.com/vickiehowell

Craftsy.com/vickie

Pinterest.com/iamvickiehowell

Instagram.com/vickiehowell

Twitter.com/vickiehowell