One man's thrash is ....

I am back! It was good to take some time off to recoup and rejuvenate. I wasnot completing resting as I spent  a lot of time crocheting amigurumi animals for my craft show on September 25th. In addition, I am excited to say that my dad just arrived from Nigeria a few days and I wanted to share a story with you.  When I started blogging 20 months ago, I had mentioned my love for natural products such as Shea Butter.  So my dad and I are having a conversation and I was telling him how expensive unrefined Shea butter and black soap is in united states and he exclaimed "those things are for poor people in Nigeria to use!" He further explained that these products are thrown out and hardly used by an average Nigerian as it is not a name brand product. I just shook my head and said if only they knew the price we pay for Shea butter in United States.

This leads me to think about the things we may call thrash may be another man's treasure. I may look at a handmade product and say to myself, who is going to use it  and another creative person will come around and find a useful way of using it.

I think about reusing yarn or unravelling yarn as a way to reuse and recycle but I find myself procrastinating at it. I will need to sit down and do it instead of just running to the yarn store but it is a project that I am gearing to do this fall. I do not like waste and even though it may not be much, I do think I will feel satisfied for trying something new for myself.

Have  a great day!


Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

On Hiatus till September 2011

Hi!


Just wanted to let you know that I will be on hiatus , vacation, break for the rest of the month.

Enjoy the rest of the summer!


Nnenna

2012 Knit and CRochet Show Dates Announced!

Just saw today that the Knit and Crochet Show for Summer and Spring 2012 were announced.
They are

2012 DATES FOR  KNIT & CROCHET SHOWS  

SUMMER KNIT & CROCHET SHOW
& CGOA/TKGA CONFERENCES
June 27-July 1, 2012Classes Wednesday through Sunday

Shopping Friday, Saturday, Sunday

Radisson Hotel Manchester – Center of NH
Manchester, NH

 

FALL KNIT & CROCHET SHOW

& CGOA/TKGA CONFERENCES

September 12-16, 2012Classes Wednesday through Sunday

Shopping Friday, Saturday, Sunday

Grand Sierra Resort
Reno, NV

I think it is time for me to start planning for Manchester!


Enjoy

Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Mega Sales at Craft Stores - July 15th - 17th 2011

This weekend, it seems that Michaels and JoAnn Stores are having Christmas in July.

• 25% off your entire purchase @ Michaels - In Stores only
• 20% off your entire purchase at Jo -Ann stores - In stores only
• Web Exclusive 30% Entire STock of Yarn and Free Shipping on Jo-Ann Stores online

Note that you will need the coupon for the in store sales and you can receive that by signing up for the stores mailing list. This is a good sale weekend. Enjoy!



Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Submit your blog for Neki Naturals Blogroll List

It is important to share the wealth of knowledge that each one of us have in our blogs. Hence, ( did I just hence?) if you are interested in sharing your blog and looking for more traffic, please submit include your blog on the comment section to include in our blog roll after review. Thanks for thanking out the time to read this!

Thank you!

Craft In-Stores and Online Stores July 4th Weekend Specials and Sales

• Micheal's gives you a  15% coupon  of everything  buy if you bought something this week at their store.

• AC Moore Stores  has a 50% off coupon one regular priced item and 50% off Summer essential online.

• Joann Store has a 50% off any regular priced item and also 50% off entire stick on 54” Home Decore Fabrics.

• Createforless Online Store has Free shipping for any purchase of $75 or more.

• Hobby Lobby Online Store  has 40 to 50% off on Decorative Birdhouse, scrap booking supplies, art supplies and framework

Enjoy!

Knit and Crochet Conference 2011

Registration is now open for the Annual Knit and Crochet Show Conference. I just received my Annual Chain Link Conference Information which is hosted by the Crochet Guild of America. If you are avid Crocheter, knitter or designer, this is the conference that you will like to be a part of . It will be held from September 21 to September 25, 2011 in Greensboro NC. I will miss this conference because my toddler is turning 3 on September 21st!

This conference has it all; the first day is Professional Developmentday followed on the second day by Crochet and Knit education sessions; On the third day, shopping floor open to all registrants and there is a Fashion show; Fourth day has more education and meeting designers and of course last day is more shopping and education.

If you are a  new designer, you will want to be at this conference; Make sure you bring swatches, portfolio book, etc. Do not forget business cards as well.

You can find registration information at KnitandCrochetShow website. Pre-registration deadline is September 1, 2011.

If you plan to go, please let me know as I will like to know your experience at the conference.

Enjoy!

Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Excellent Resource for Sewing or Crocheting Or Knitting DIY Crafts

I found this website called YoucanMakeThis.com and it is a great resource for DIY Sewing or Crocheting Crafts. Check it out!.




Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Happy Father's Day!

Happy Father's day to all the men who thrive to be the best that they can be to their families. You are a big impact in our lives and I am happy to wish my husband who thrive to do all he can for his children on a daily basis, a great and joyous day of celebration! I hope you all had a great day!


Enjoy!

Total Lunar Eclipse Today!

I was reading Parenting Magazine the other day and found out that for an about an hour and forty minutes, the moon will turn copper color as it passes through Earth's Shadow. I tis safe to look at with the naked eye  or a binocular. Isn't that so cool? Oh and to start at about 10:12 p.m EST. I wish I will be up at that time! Let  me know if you watched it.



Enjoy!



Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Teaching Alphabets with Yarn

My son will turn 3 in September and into preschool. Since I am a Type A personality, I am agonizing over the idea of not having him ready and prepared for school.  I want him to have fun this summer and also learn one or two things about the alphabet even if it is just the Letter "A".  I have a lot of yarn, and I mean a lot of yarn  and he loves  to cut things so last week, we spent a lot of time cutting up yarn  and gluing it to the picture of an apple for the letter "A" and also made a short form of his name using yarn and glue. He had a lot of fun and I posted it on the kitchen wall. Every time someone looks at it, he "tries" starts to explain what he did and that made me feel warm and fuzzy all over.

Now to this week, not sure what we are going to do with the letter "B". But stay tuned. If you have any ideas, please let me know!

Enjoy!





 Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

5 Easy Ways to Choose a Hobby

A few months ago, I blogged on find time for your hobby however there are people who still need to decide on a hobby.  Some question why a hobby is needed. Not everyone is cut out to have an extra “project” to do in their schedule. A hobby has so many benefits ranging from stress reliever, keeping he mind alert to helping you have a topic to discuss in a social setting. When combined as a family project, it can help bring a family closer and a fun way to teach younger children new things.

Now, you may be one of the lucky ones who discovered their hobby by doing an activity. For example, I started to run when I first started to date my husband as an activity we can do together as a couple. I never ran before and I thought it was (and it is) a hard sport that I could not conquer but as time passed, I noticed that I was good at it and l liked to compete in local races.   Other people need to deliberately look for an activity and try a few things to find out what type of hobby will work for them. If so, today’s topic is for you.

Some of ways to search and choose a hobby are:

1.     Check out a Bookstore – Visit a bookstore and peruse through their magazine racks. Pick up and preview certain activities that may of interest to you. Check and see if there are books to those hobbies and review them. If on a budget, visit your local library and borrow books on those topics.

2.     Attend Classes – Classes are a quick way to learn a hobby. It cuts through the time of trying to learn it on your own. Visit your local town website or see your local town newspapers on schedule for classes.   Check online for any online classes. If you are not sure about the particular topic, contact them through phone or email for additional clarification.

3.     Attend or Watch Shows – This is one of my favorite things to do to keep my running interest. Watch shows on hobbies that you may be interested in. For me, I watch all marathon races and local shows either online or television. It teaches me new trends and skills in running. Yes, running actually has trends.  You can also attend live shows such as book shows, car shows, craft shows, gardening shows, dance shows– any show that seem of interest to you.

4.     Pick a Brain – You can also ask someone who knows you to give you suggestions based on your personality.  They can help you in focusing on a hobby that will suit your style. Even if it is just a hint in the right direction.

5.     Just do it – My motto is the same as Nike– just do it. Try something out whether you are certain or not. Do not let fear hinder you from something that can become a life changer or a life saver.  It can be simple or complicated. It can be inexpensive or very expensive (only if you have the extra cash). It can be exhausting and fun at the same time. It can teach you or teach someone. Whatever picks your interest that is good to do, try it . You never know where it will lead.

Enjoy!

DIY Facial Cream Recipe to minimize Wrinkles

I saw this recipe from Harriet Ayer and decided to share it 

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons sweet almond oil
• 0.5 teaspoon witch hazel
• 0.5 teaspoon benzoin essential oil
• 5 drops essential oil

Directions:

Mix all ingredients together thoroughly. To use, add 4or 5 drops of all the mixture to half a glass of water and apply to face at night as lotion. In the morning, wash the face in water from which the chill has been taken off.

Enjoy!

FREE EBOOK Available- Natural Skin and Hair Care recipe ebook

Will you like to know how o use natural products to care for your skin and hair?
Are you tired of spending excess amount of money on beauty products?
Will you like to be more environmental friendly with your care products?

Learn how to use natural products to care for your skin and hair care with this Free ebook.
Get it by visiting here .




Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. She also loves natural ways of taking care of  skin and hair. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

6 Ways to Take Care of Your Craft Hands

This week is a extreme busy week for me but I wanted to republish one of my favorite blogs I wrote in learning on how to take care of my hands.
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Sometimes, my fingers and hands hurt from long period of crocheting. I am learning now to listen to these pains because if not, it will intensify and get worse with time

1. Change your hooks.  I usually use aluminum hooks. I now have various hooks such as wooden hooks, hooks with wide base even plastic hooks. I normally now use plastic hooks with heavier yarn.

2. Take a break. About every 10 minutes - stop. Stretch your hand out wide. Touch each finger to your thumb and stretch back out. Do it often,

3. Hot water soak for your wrists are extremely helpful. About every hour, stop and soak hands and wrists in hot water for about 5 - 10 minutes.

4. Change how you hold your hook. If you currently hold it like a knife, try more like a pencil or vice-versa. Keep changing off between positions.

5. If all fails, Pain reliever - which is an inflammation reducer may help but you don't want to take too much of either. Toxicity can build from these medications and you can damage your liver.

6. If all fails, take a few days off and let the pain subside.

Just do not ignore the pain.

Enjoy!

Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Happy Weekend

Since Blogger was down for most of the week, I was unable to post a blog.

I want to wish you a great and enjoyable weekend. Talk to you next week!


Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Happy Mother's Day

From my heart to yours, Happy Mother's Day! In the middle of all the chaos, cleaning,laundry, cooking and playing with the family, may you find moments of peace, indescribable joy, giddy with contentment and abundance of thanksgiving! Enjoy Mother's day and every day of the year!


Hugs!

8 Helpful Ways to Maximize Time and Complete Crochet(Knitting) Projects

Crocheting Projects can be short or long depending on the complexity of the project. I have found myself sometimes so distracted that a 2 hour project becomes a day or two days project.  Time is a finite resource and as the saying goes Time is Money and Money is Time. Precious time wasted inhibits us from accomplishing more than one project and am sure guilty of that.  With a toddler, a full time job and a home to maintain,   need to ensure that I am able to crochet as well spend quality time with my family.

Here are some ways to ensure that I have learned to maximizing my time and complete my projects. These helpful tips can apply to knitting or any craft project.

1. Plan your project - Pick a project and  make sure you have the instructions. If you are designer, ensure that you have all your research done before you begin. Buy all your materials needed for the project. It is more economical if you have everything you need than trying to head back to the store when you run out of a material .

2. Read : Read the instructions thoroughly probably twice or more. Have additional Books to help you understand the stitches and abbreviations if necessary.

3. Schedule Time: On your daily calendar, schedule the time for crocheting and stick to it. This works for me and it ensures me that I am making progress in my project.

4. Pick a location: Pick a location that inspires you to crochet. If you need to look out the window, pick a spot where you can see the windows. If you need to watch television, pick the family room or fun room.

5. Have all Materials Handy: When you start your project, ensure that all your materials are in one place. So you do not have to run around looking for  a material and get distracted.

6. Turn off all noisy distraction: I need some type of music or inspirational program while I am crocheting and I try to turn everything else off. No phone calls, no facebook, no twitter, no unscheduled breaks.

7. Schedule a break- If you plan to crochet for a couple of hours, schedule a break for yourself. It is important to relax your fingers, get up and mover around, grab something to eat and pat yourself on the progress of your project.

8. Have Fun - Always try to remember  the reason for crocheting and have fun with it. For me, I am usually impatient because I want to see the finished product.

Enjoy!

Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

6 Easy Ways to to $ave Money at Craft Stores

Do you remember Rag Shop? Oh How I loved it until it closed and then I started paying attention to all the other craft stores. If you have kids or have a hobby or craft business, you will probably often be at the craft stores more often than you can count. Sometimes planned or sometimes for an emergency project. One year, as a hobby, I spent thousands of dollars at Craft Stores without thinking about saving money but as I realized that if I spend a little time thinking about this and planning for it, maybe I could have at least 50% of the cost. So how do I go about this?

1. Sign up for the email list: Sign up for all the Email/Internet Mailing list for all the stores - Micheals, Joann Stores, AC Moore, etc. I wish this was available years ago. There are  sales and coupons not available to the general public that are sent on emails. Also you will find out all the special store sales.

2. Plan your or your kids project according to sales: I am a yarn lover, sometimes I want to crochet a particular project but I can do another project depending on what yarn is on sale.  If you are planning a children project, try to plan a project based on what is on sale.

3. Keep a list of Future Projects: Remember I mentioned I had a project in mind but then did another project?  I will keep an eye out until I see the yarn on sale then I can work on a project that is on the Future project list.

4. Use Competitor Coupons: This for me is a mega money saver! You can use competitor coupons at your favorite coupon stores. Cut all the coupons of all the craft stores and save them and use according to your need. It comes in really handy when I run out of supplies suddenly and have to head to the store.

5. Check and Compare Prices Online: Check Prices online first for the supplies that you are looking for before heading to the store. Make sure you are getting the best price for your supply.

6. Clip, Clip, Clip coupons - Go through the weekly ads and clip the coupons. Use the same type of storage booklet that you will use for your grocery coupons.


I love craft stores and my favorite is Micheals. I can close my eyes and see all the different sections of the stores. Other stores include Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft stores, AC Moore, Hobby Lobby, etc.



Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Favorite Discount Stores to buy Yarn

As I indicated in my last blog, I am a yarn lover and even though half of the time, I am emergency yarn shopper, there are few online stores that I have used that provide good discount and sales on yarn.
Here is my list:

• Smileys Yarns
• CreateforLess.Com
• KnittingWarehouse
• Yarn.Com

One other store that provides discount but you have to catch the sale is :

• JoAnn.Com

Enjoy!

Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Am I Hoarding or Saving Yarn ?

I always have tons of projects in my head and sometimes on paper or saw in a magazine and head straight out to go buy yarn for the projects. Now my basement book shelf no longer have books but shelves and shelves of yarn.  I can't resist buying yarn.

So, I have made up my mind that for my craft show on May 1st, I am not buying any yarn, Not one single yarn! I need to use what I have in stock. This will help me to reduce my inventory, learn to be more creative with what I have and save money.  You see, I can save money with my personal expenses but when it comes to business, I still have a lot to learn.  I still treat like an expensive hobby most of the time. So Rule #1 for me  is to use what I have on my basement shelf unless it is a customized request.

I will let you know how I am doing.

Enjoy!




Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

What is Beauty?

What is Beauty?

Every woman tries as much as possible to be prettier and healthier. We spend enormous amount of time and money devoted to be prettier.  This pursuit is as old as the world.  I have come to realize that as much as we strive for the next level of prettiness and youthfulness, true beauty comes from within. With a combination of inner beauty and a woman taking good care of herself and self confidence, her aura radiates more than just physical beauty.

So what am I saying? Work on your Inner Beauty; work on your Outer Beauty by taking good care of your skin not through chemicals but through natural products that will protect and help revive your skin tissue. And most important, be confident in who you are!

What is your definition of beauty? Please share your thoughts.

Enjoy!

Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

How to Crochet a Spiral Motif

How To - Spiral Crochet Motifs

Directions:
1. Work a foundation chain and slip stitch into the first chain to form a ring


2. If using a double crochet, chain 3 then work one double crochet into each chain stitch around


3. At the end of the round, continue to work in rounds without slip stitch to join rounds. You will need a marker at the end of each round to keep track of the rounds completed.






Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

The High of Running and High of Sneakers Giving.

Me at a race last season

Outside of Crocheting, Running is my best hobby. I strive and compete with myself every single time.
I started running when I met my husband in 2004 and we needed to do something together.  He loves sports so do I  so we decided to run together.  I can still remember the rainy April sunday morning when we laced up our non running sneakers and went out and we could not run more than one block and we walked the rest of the mile home.
Now, with a  toddler, we no longer run together but run on different days and it still feels like we run together because we talk about timing, miles, and stamina.  It is one sport that I can truly say we have grown to love.  Not only does it keep our body humming, but it keeps our spirits up and draws us closer as a couple.

As much as I love it, I do not like buying running sneakers. It takes me over a month of review to decide on my running sneakers. I usually try to buy the same sneakers  I wore the season before but can never find it so I agonize over model, price and quantity. Each season I normally buy 2 pairs but I decided to buy just one pair this season of Asics 2150 because I only need it for racing days.
The beautiful thing I found is that I can donate my sneakers and I have a box of sneakers to donate. So today, I will find where and how to ship the sneakers so I can get my other high of giving! I am blessed with legs that can move and love the opportunity to help someone  protect their feet with my sneakers.


Enjoy!

Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Finding Ways to balance life - Really?

This year  seems to be zipping by and spring is already around the corner. It seems  that I am finding it very difficult o balance parenting,family and work duties. It feels like there is really no balance between all these responsibilities.  Some weeks, parenting and family duties takes precedence and some weeks, work takes precedence. To balance the two with equal time and effort is unattainable at this time. I can be consumed with designing, crocheting and my work as an engineer  and I am trying to learn from other women who had it all how they have been able to do so and raise good children and have a happy home while making a living.


If you have any tips or book recommendations, please let me know.

Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

7 Tips To Find Time For Hobby

Wikipedia defines hobby as an activity or interest that is undertaken for pleasure or relaxation, often in one's spare time. Now as a workingmother and business woman and wife, I know this almost seems impossible.  But having a hobby is important. It allows us time for ourselves to relax, to reveal a gift or talent, and to network.  With  a hectic lifestyle, it is important to have something that you can do for you.

Here are some ways that can help you find the time to fit in a hobby into your lifestyle:

1. Discuss your dilemma with your family: I took out the time to discuss with my husband the need for me to be able to spend some hobby time so he and other members of my family can help me with the house chores and taking care of my toddler.

2. Schedule Hobby Time: This I started to practice this year with the help of my coach.  First, map out your regular schedule and see where you have 30 minutes or more and block that time out for your hobby.  My motto is schedule schedule schedule.  Make everyone aware of your schedule.

3. Create a  project plan: So now you have a schedule of when you plan to invest time in your hobby. What are you planning to do? How many hours will it take you to complete this project? What are the tools or supplies you need for this hobby project? What books do you need to read? Plan out your requirements and completion date for your project.

4. Find Hobby Spot: Find a place in your home that you can store your hobby supplies and immerse yourself in your hobby. If it is gardening, arrange all your gardening tools in one location. Find a spot where you will plant either in pots or outside.

5. Include your family: Sometimes it is difficult to have time alone for hobbies. Maybe you can include your child or children and find a hobby that everyone can enjoy and particpate.

6. Trade child care time: If you need child care support, this is a good time to trade with a friend/neighbour on child care and ask for help.

7.  Throw a Hobby Party - When all fails, throw a hobby party. Everyone will have a blast so will you. You may not throw a hobby party but it will give you the satisfaction of creating or doing something for yourself!

Hope this helps.

Enjoy!

What frustrates you about Crochet? - Help is on the Way!

Crocheting is my passion  and Yes, it is time consuming and it is so rewarding. Yesterday, I was talking to someone on twitter about the fact that I am not a great fan of steel crochet hooks. One of the main reasons is  I have a damaged finger and during the winter, it is excruciating to crochet and using steel hooks does not help. However, I have to use steel hooks for baby wears and accessories.

Back to my twitter story, my new twitter friend @CrochetLibFront suggested using grips or ergo handles for my steel hooks. Hello! So I am checking these handles on ETSY to help resolve my steel hook frustration.

The advice was quick and easy for me even as a seasoned crochet artist. So I will like to find out from you what frustrates you the most about crocheting and do my best to help you either through my own knowledge and experience or use my network to get you answers. You can either respond to this blog or find me on twitter, facebook, or email. I am looking forward to hearing from you soon.

I will like to thank @crochetlibfront  the help with the steel hooks.

Enjoy!

Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Resources for Teaching Kids to Crochet

my son trying to crochet

Kids are really intrigued by crocheting. My two year old is always trying to find a way to crochet with a hook larger than his size . There are so many reasons why kids will want to learn. Crocheting is fun, creative and it teaches kids patience. I started to crochet as a teenager and even stopped crocheting for several years and was able to get back into it quickly.  Crocheting is a great way to spend time with kids as they try to figure out the stitches and the patterns.  I met a lady on twitter whose 5 year old has picked up crocheting and it keeps the preschooler quite busy. So, if you know a kid who is interested in crocheting and you are trying to figure out where to start, the following resources are great resources and information that can help you "Teach one, Reach one" in Crocheting.

Resources:
www.craftyarncouncil.com
www.cycdiscoverknitandcrochet.org
www.YarnStandards.com
www.Crochet911.com
www.knitandcrochet.com 
www.learntocrochet.com
www.warmupamerica.org 
www.eachoneteachtwo.com 
www.FriendshipShawl.org
www.teachknitandcrochet.org


Enjoy!
Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Give Yourself the Perfect Manicure.

To take great care of your nails, all you need is 20 minutes once a week and you can easily do this yourself.

I found these great tips and as usual, I always share any thing we can do to live naturally.

1. Cover the tips of the fingers with almond meal; soak the hand for at least 15 minutes in a bowl of warm water with a little soap powder in it. Dry the fingers carefully pressing the selvage down all around. User the clippers to cut the nails. With a little practice, you will secure the perfect pointed oval in form and each nail will be the same length and contour.

2. Remove all foreign matter from under the mail with an orange wood stick. If there are stains or discolorations, take them off with the inside of a lemon. Polish a bit of chamois or a nail buffer. Rub always, never up and down.

3. Rough, hard work will, of course, injure the appearance of the hands unless they are cared for.

Enjoy!

5 Ways to Add Value to Your Crochet Magazines

Crochet Magazines are not inexpensive and they provide great content and learning materials. However, if you are like me, you have accumulated a substantial amount of magazines. I keep asking myself what to do with them and here are some of  the ways that you can add additional value to them without throwing them into the thrash

• Collector Items: You can turn your magazines as collectors items and store them. They may become vintage items. For those soon to be vintage magazines that are old, use a file folder with dividers and store in your file cabinet. For those magazines that you want to keep handy, you can put them in plastic holder and store in a binder.

• Gift Giving: I have come across a lot of people who want to learn how to crochet but the cost of class or buying books prevents them from doing so.  You can give it as a gift not necessarily for birthday or Christmas gift but as a way of letting someone know you care about them and support their need to learn.

• Decor: For editions you absolutely love, you can frame it and use as art work for your home.

• Donation: You can donate your magazines to a charity organization that is interested in using the magazines for teaching crochet or making items for other charity organizations.

• Tear it up and Keep: If you find that you do not want to keep the entire magazine, then tear out the pages that you want to keep and recycle the rest.

I always say you should keep a few magazines handy, they are always a source of inspiration.

Enjoy!


Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Easy Crochet Baby Hat Pattern

BABY BEANIE HAT

MATERIALS:

Bernat Baby Coordinates
Hook Size H

Gauge: 6 double crochets worked between stitches = 2"
           5 rows = 2"

Stitches: ch, dc ,sc

R1: Ch4. 11 dc in 4th ch from hook. Join with sl st in top of beg ch4. (12dc) Do not turn.

R2: Sl st bet next 2 sts. Ch3, dc in same sp. 2dc bet all other sts. (24dc) Join with sl st in top of beg ch3. Do not turn.

R3: Sl st bet next 2sts. Ch3, dc in same sp. Dc bet next 2 sts. (2dc bet next 2 sts. Dc bet next 2 sts) around. (36dc) Join with sl st in top of beg ch3. Do not turn.

Rs4-15: Sl st bet next 2 sts. Ch3 (counts as dc for this space)
(Dc bet next 2 sts) around. Join with sl st in top of beg ch3. (36dc)
Do not turn.

R13: sc around placing one st bet all sts like previous rounds.

Fasten Off and Weave in ends.

Fold up rounds 13 to 15.


Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

How to Increase and Decrease Single Crochet Stitches.

Single Crochet Increases and Decreases

The sc increase or decrease stitches are used to make fabric wider or narrower gradually. They are often used in clothing patterns.

How to increase a single crochet stitch:
Work two sc stitches in one stitch.

a. If you are increasing at the beginning of a single crochet row work single crochet stitch twice into the same stitch.
b. If you are increasing at the end of a single crochet row, work two stitches into the last stitch


How to decrease a single crochet stitch
1. Insert hook in the next stitch , yarn over and pull yarn through 2 loops on the hook
2. Instead of completing the sc, insert hook into next stitch, yarn over and pull through the 3 loops on the hook.
3. Yarn over and pull through yarn through all 3 loops. One DEC made

Note – If after counting stitches, you added more or reduced more than necessary, do not be afraid to redo the row.

Enjoy!

Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Thomas the Train Moved In

Before I became a parent, I used to make fun of parents who planned themed birthdays, kids dressed in themes, etc. I used to wonder why can't they put their foot down? Then I had my little man who is now 24 months old and Thomas moved in a little over a year ago.  I thought it was going to be a short phase but this has turned into a love affair.

Pyjamas, walls, sheets, toys, DVDs, books, etc and to top it all , we actually had a Thomas the train cake for his birthday. In some ways, I am grateful because it is making transitioning a little easier but I can't help and wonder what will it be next year. I am sure some folks are asking "Why is she not putting her foot down?
My answer will be "the sheer pleasure and excitement from my little one is priceless.


Have a great weekend!

Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Neki Handmade Items Featured in ETSY Treasuries

I am always tickled and immensely grateful when Neki Naturals are featured.
This week, Neki Etsy items have been featured in the following treasuries:

• From Shellyka EtsyTreasury, neki purple elephant

• From MoreOutOfTheOrdinary ETSY Treasury, Neki pink elephant

• From Lisalaneboutique Treasury, neki blue scrubbie

Big Thank you to all the Treasuries. I am certainly grateful!

Enjoy!

February Already and A Lot to Do!

I am still in shock that it is already February and even in more shock with the amount of snow that we have had this year plus there is a snowstorm today and tomorrow.  Have Mercy! This weather makes some of us procrastinate and if you are a Type A personality like me, we beat ourselves up for not checking off our to-do list.

My To-Dos is so long that I scare myself. This week, I am going to be realistic and see what I can easily check off or postpone until further notice. For example, I need to visit consignment stores and I have not prepared a new portfolio or crochet new designs. I have yet to review the deadlines to submit crochet designs to magazines and I need to pick the dates for crochet shows for this year. So this week, I am pulling myself together and focusing on these three. Next month, I will worry about taxes and paperwork.

I still can't believe it is February! What are some of things that you wanted to do that you have not started?  Comments are welcome!

Enjoy your day!


Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

How to Crochet a Bookmark in less than 2 hours

I found this pattern a few years back and it is one of my favorite teaching patterns. It is quick,easy and it teaches all the basic stitches of crochet - chain, slip stitch, single crochet and double crochet.
As I mentioned in my last blog with teaching the Hackesttown Women, this was a project all can do and be able to compete in less than 2 hours if you are beginner and teach yourself the basic stitches of crochet.

So let us get started!
Materials:
Use any Yarn in your stash- worsted eight yarn.
Hook - For beginners I recommend size I or K

Abbreviations:
ch - chain
st - stitch
sl st - slip stitch
sc - single crochet
dc - double crochet
RS - right side


Bookmark Pattern:
Ch 22.

Foundation Row(RS): Sc into second ch from hook  and into each ch across- 21 stitches total. Ch 3, turn

Row 1: Skip first stitch, dc into each stitch across - 21 stitches total. Ch 1, turn.

Row 2: Sc into each st across - 21 sts total. Do not fasten off.

Finishing
Working along sides of row, (ch 20, slip st into next row below)  3 times. Fasten off.

THE End! What is not easy? :)

Enjoy!

 Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Fun Filled Fulfilling Crochet Teaching Experience

A week ago, I had the pleasure of teaching crochet to a group of fantastic christian women at the Hackettstown Seventh Day Adventist Church in Hackettstown, NJ. They had contacted me months ago to teach crochet to them and I have to say that this teaching experience was very different from the other classes I have taught.

Since this was a way for me to give back to my surrounding community, I thought that there will be less  people and motivation to learn. Did they prove me wrong! They were twenty women of different ages ranging from pre teens to seniors and they had so much excitement! Most of the women wanted to either remember how to crochet or trying it out the first time so they can join other churches int he neighbourhood to crochet for charities. One of the groups that they wanted to join crochet baby hats fort the Hackettstown Hospital in New Jersey. Guess what? I had my son at the same hospital two years ago and I can tell you I have one of those hats!

There was food and christain music in the background. Everyone ate and I started to teach them how to crochet using a bookmark crochet pattern which I will share in the next blog.  Women who through this class remembered how to crochet started to help me with the beginners since there were a lot of people. People were laughing and crocheting. Young women who did other crafts wanted to know about ETSY and selling their products online. The Organizer of the event was Dora Martinez, a beautiful soul and quiet leader who went beyond to make this event a special occasion. At the end of the class, they had a raffle and all four winners received a huge ball of yarn. Everyone went home with a new crochet hook and full stomach.

To add icing to the cake, I received a beautiful thank you card that inspires me to keep going when I am having difficult days. There are so many reasons to crochet and to know that teaching crochet allows people to learn a new skill that thy can use to give back to the community makes my life rich and full of gratitude.


If you want to invite me to teach crochet to a group, church or organization, you can find me at twitter or facebook. It is free two hour event that will be fulfilling for all.

Enjoy!


Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Submission Call for Second Edition of Neki Naturals Blog Carnival

We are accepting blog submissions for the second edition of Neki Naturals Blog Carnival @ http://blogcarnival.com. Share your most current, interesting blogs with everyone!

Submit your blog to the carnival for review as long it meets the criteria and it will be reviewed. Find out more information at http://blogcarnival.com and search for title "Neki Naturals handmade blog carnival"


 Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

Neki Naturals Handmade Blog Carnival. - January 2011 Edition

Welcome to the January 11, 2011 edition of Neki Naturals handmade blog carnival. We plan to publish a carnival at least once a month and sharing other great blogs. Enjoy!

• 3 fun and easy crafts for Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year falls on February 3 this year and will be upon us faster than we think. It's time to get cracking on those New Year part two crafts for a festive start to the year of the Rabbit. These simple, yet pretty crafts are a quick way to liven up your Chinese New Year celebrations. More

• Handmade Crocheted Hat Gifts

I knitted and crocheted gifts for everyone in my family this year. Besides my parents, I have 2 sisters, 3 brothers, 3 nieces, and 1 nephew. My wrists are a bit sore…Read More

• Traditional Thai Crafts In Phetchaburi

Phetchaburi is the first province on the way to Thailand's southern peninsula and it's known for its master craftsmen. Read more...

• A Gift from the Un-Lonely Squirrel

My daughter "Ponytails" put this post together to showcase some of the crocheted gifts I made this Christmas. Read More...




This concludes this edition. Submit your blog article to the next edition of neki naturals handmade blog carnival using our carnival submission form.
Past posts and future hosts can be found on our blog carnival index page.

Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/NekiNaturals

All you need to know about Amigurumi - Crochet and Knitted Animals

Person: Oh! those are cute!  I did not know that you can do that in crochet or knitting! I want to make or have one of those. What are they called?

Me: An Amigurumi animal

Person:  Ami what?



Wikipedia defines amigurumi as the Japanese art of knitting or crocheting small stuffed animals and anthropomorphic creatures. The word is derived from a combination of the Japanese words ami, meaning crocheted or knitted, and amigurumi, meaning stuffed doll. Amigurumi are typically animals, but can include artistic renderings or inanimate objects endowed with anthropomorphic features.

They are crochet or knitted with yarn and are usually done in single crochet and made up of parts and then sewn together. Felts and buttons are normally used for eyes, nose and ears. You can create your own style with different colors. Great project for leftover yarns.

There are many free patterns online, goggle the word "amigurumi crochet patterns". In addition, you can find tons of books either at craft stores such as Michael's or AC Moore or Amazon.com. If you are looking for buy finished products, Etsy and Zibbet are great online marketplaces to find them.


Enjoy!

Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook.

5 Great Items to Make with Granny Squares

A Granny Square is is a crocheted motif that can be created in limitless possible variations and colors.  When one thinks of granny squares, it is mostly about afghans and blankets but granny squares are quite versatile and can be used to crochet different items.

These include:

Pillow Covers: Granny squares are great for pillows colors  and quick to crochet.  You can use one or more colors to create a unique style and blend for your home.

Bags: Do you want to quickly crochet a tote bag?  Crochet two granny squares  and sew sides together and use cloth lining for the insides. Get creative with the lining colors to show your creative side. For example , two black and whit granny squares with pink cloth lining.

Clothing:  Recently, I crochet a halter top with purple and pink 3*3 granny squares. You can take a clothing item in your closet as a sample for measurement and line up the granny squares in the same fashion.

Scarfs:  Do you have crochet small granny squares lying around? Sew them up and use as scarf.  The first time I was trying to crochet a halter top , it went totally wrong so I just sewed it up a scarf.

Blankets and Afghans - This is mostly everyones' favorite. Sew one huge granny square or crochet multiple granny squares and sew them together. I am working on  a blanket with 25 Granny squares of 5 * 5  for my bedroom and will show you the pics when it is completed.

I hope this gives you some ideas on how to use your granny squares. There is so much more that can be done with the squares and colors.

Enjoy!


.Express yourself with handmade! Nnenna Pastor is a crochet designer and instructor. Other places to visit Neki Naturals are http://neki.etsy.com and join Neki Naturals on facebook