tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6772789151463487682024-03-13T10:03:25.836-04:00mon makes thingsMonica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.comBlogger145125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-87525133706040138182014-06-19T08:00:00.000-04:002014-06-19T08:00:03.250-04:00Around Here // June 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6P3c-_O_O30/U6JUbavCeeI/AAAAAAAAFJk/tfUOCu8UlNI/s1600/CarSelfie_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6P3c-_O_O30/U6JUbavCeeI/AAAAAAAAFJk/tfUOCu8UlNI/s1600/CarSelfie_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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Life is weird lately. I got home from my <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2014/03/by-bus-by-plane-my-cross-country-trip.html">BIG, EPIC TRIP</a> almost a month ago now, which is nuts. I still feel like I'm readjusting to normalcy. Life tasks like cooking, cleaning, and washing dishes seem especially tiresome, and all I want to do is seek out small adventures. On the one hand, it feels like summer is this magical time when all my friends are home and want to play, while on the other hand it feels like adulthood is gaining on me fast. I've been feeling some serious financial stresses this month, and I've been avoiding them like my life depends on it... Which is dumb, because in fact my life partially depends on FACING those stresses, right? Oops. </div>
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I want to tell you all about my trip. I want to answer questions like how I managed to snag 8 plane tickets and 4 bus tickets for about $1.2k and how I packed for a 6.5 week trip to varying climates with a tiny carry-on. I want to craft exciting things and revamp my lifestyle so that I am more fulfilled on a daily basis. I want to do all those things, but mostly I'm just overwhelmed by all those things. I read <a href="http://www.thinkingcloset.com/2014/06/13/one-change-i-made-that-is-bringing-me-more-balance/">this post about balance</a> at <a href="http://www.thinkingcloset.com/">The Thinking Closet</a> today, and remembered how insightful Lauren is -- I totally relate to the challenges she talks about. Right now, I need to catch my breath. </div>
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More than anything, I think I'm in denial about my own feelings, and I'm desperately afraid of the future. I'm finding my day job <i>miserably</i> boring, I <i>know</i> I need to spread my wings and job-hunt, <i>and</i> I have the reality of student loans breathing down my neck. It's a stressful time. To avoid those stresses, I've been socializing a <i>lot</i>, spending time in the sunshine and generally ignoring them altogether. Maybe not the wisest choice, but I'm working on it. Sometimes, it's hard not to think that growing up is overrated. </div>
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How do you deal with stresses? Gimmie yo insights! Please? </div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-44686916488541923432014-05-04T08:00:00.000-04:002014-05-04T08:00:05.333-04:00Guest Post: Daisy Garland Crochet Pattern<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Alright, alright... I'm writing you from Denver today. Since I last posted, I visited both LA and Vegas, and now here I am in Colorado, drinking in the mountainous views and open spaces. LA and Vegas were both pretty whirlwind-y and unfortunately I just haven't been able to post here or on my Instagram as much as I'd hoped. I just think that all too often, pinning yourself behind a camera/phone really detracts from your actual experience of a place or thing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This post is extra special because it comes to you from one of my favorite crocheters & bloggy friends, Tanya! Tanya is amazing and wonderful and takes the loveliest photos and crafts the cutest projects. JUST LOOK AT THIS GARLAND. You know how I feel about garlands right? Cause like, I can't get enough of them. I want to string them everywhere for every occasion and also no occasion at all. Enjoy! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;">Hey everyone! It’s Tanya from </span><a href="http://www.littlethingsblogged.com/" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1pt none windowtext; color: #743399; padding: 0in;">Little Things
Blogged</span></a><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;">! I am so excited to be sharing a totally
spring pattern with you today! When Monica got in touch with me I was so
thrilled and immediately decided to crochet a daisy garland! After all spring
is all about flowers!:)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75"
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o:title=""/>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-28i3CCe2qXI/U2Wh8HhwPDI/AAAAAAAAEQ4/PiK0tEErsac/s1600/daisygarland1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-28i3CCe2qXI/U2Wh8HhwPDI/AAAAAAAAEQ4/PiK0tEErsac/s1600/daisygarland1.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>You will need:</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<li><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; text-indent: -0.25in;">Yellow, white & red 100% cotton yarn
( I used Catania)</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; text-indent: -0.25in;">4 mm (G) crochet hook</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Pattern:</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To make the daisies (make 5):<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Using 4 mm (G) crochet hook and yellow yarn:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ch6 sl st to form a ring<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">R1: 12 sc in ring, join to first sc with sl st<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Change to white yarn<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">R2: 1 ch, * 1 sc, in first sc of previous round, 15 ch, join
with sl st to base of sc* repeat from * to *11 more times. (12 petals in total)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fasten off.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_2"
o:spid="_x0000_i1028" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5in;height:284.25pt;
visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\Scott\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image003.jpg"
o:title=""/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></span><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-egZOVTKGXpE/U2Wh5tLgYLI/AAAAAAAAEQw/JvskUUm4FQg/s1600/daisy1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-egZOVTKGXpE/U2Wh5tLgYLI/AAAAAAAAEQw/JvskUUm4FQg/s1600/daisy1.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To make the red flowers (make 2):</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Using 4 mm (G) crochet hook and red yarn:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ch6 sl st to form a ring<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">R1: *ch 3(counts as first dc), dc in ring, ch 3 sl st in
ring,* repeat from * to * 5 more times to form petals (6 petals in total)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fasten off.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_3"
o:spid="_x0000_i1027" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5in;height:292.5pt;
visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\Scott\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image005.jpg"
o:title=""/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></span><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qlwff7eAhzQ/U2Wh47MC-_I/AAAAAAAAEQo/-E9OcmwJmlE/s1600/daisy2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qlwff7eAhzQ/U2Wh47MC-_I/AAAAAAAAEQo/-E9OcmwJmlE/s1600/daisy2.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To make the yellow/red flowers (make 4):<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Using 4 mm (G) crochet hook and red yarn:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Repeat the red flower pattern but change color for petals<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fasten off.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To make the yellow bows (make 4):<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Using 4 mm (G) crochet hook and yellow yarn:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ch 32 and sl st to first ch to form a ring.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">R1: ch 1, sc in same st, sc in next st, hdc in next two sts,
2 dc in next two sts, 3 dc in next st (forms the first corner) dc in next 2
sts, 3 dc in next st ( next corner), dc in next 2 sts, hdc in next two sts, sc
in next 4 sts, hdc in next two sts, dc in next 2 sts, 3 dc in next st ( next
corner), dc in next 2 sts, 3 dc in next st (next corner), dc in next 2 sts, hdc
in next two sts.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fasten off and tie center together using yellow yarn.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For bow tie:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ch 20 + 3 (counts as first dc)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dc in next two sts, hdc in next 2 sts, sc in next 10 sts, hdc
in next 2 sts, dc in next 3 sts<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fasten off.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Attach to center of basic bow body by tying a knot with yellow
yarn.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_4"
o:spid="_x0000_i1026" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5in;height:270pt;
visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\Scott\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image007.jpg"
o:title=""/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></span><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mncIRZVCaVs/U2Wh4lJGz9I/AAAAAAAAEQk/mLG3lD1njKs/s1600/bow1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mncIRZVCaVs/U2Wh4lJGz9I/AAAAAAAAEQk/mLG3lD1njKs/s1600/bow1.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To make the garland:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You will always ch 25 in between the flowers and bows.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The sequence is: bow, daisy, yellow/red flower, daisy,
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fasten off and admire your garland!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ln0etMkQ2UI/U2Whzx93p1I/AAAAAAAAEQY/tj3J8uL6JvU/s1600/daisygarland2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ln0etMkQ2UI/U2Whzx93p1I/AAAAAAAAEQY/tj3J8uL6JvU/s1600/daisygarland2.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="line-height: 13.85pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thanks for having me and happy crocheting!:)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.1500000000000001; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="line-height: normal; text-align: start; white-space: normal;">...so cute, right?! I'm obsessed with those daisies, and can't wait to whip some up once I get my hook back in hand! I'm off for more mountain climbing, but y'all enjoy this pattern, and be sure to swing by Tanya's </span><a href="http://www.littlethingsblogged.com/" style="line-height: normal; text-align: start; white-space: normal;">blog </a><span style="line-height: normal; text-align: start; white-space: normal;">& </span><a href="http://followgram.me/ltblogged" style="line-height: normal; text-align: start; white-space: normal;">Instagram feed</a><span style="line-height: normal; text-align: start; white-space: normal;"> for more uber cute crochet goodness!</span></span></div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-60030577806472432862014-04-26T04:51:00.000-04:002014-04-26T04:51:51.464-04:00Washi Tape Heart Pins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You guys, I am looking SOOO hip right now as I type this. I am actively upping my hipster cred. I'm sitting in a Starbucks in Seattle, sipping a latte, typing on my iPad, wearing a leather jacket... My trip is still going well. Hawaii was beautiful and wonderful and now I want to live there for a brief time. Just until the island fever gets me, or I grow tired of the never-changing weather. Seattle is also gorgeous so far, and I've decided that I need to live somewhere mountainous. </div>
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This is a craft I actually did quite a while ago, when I helped a friend with a <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2013/10/baby-shower-photo-board.html">baby shower board</a>. I actually made these little hearts really quickly and kind of on a whim, but I'm really happy with how they turned out. So friggin' cute. Check out the details on <a href="http://thinkcrafts.com/blog/2014/04/23/washi-hearts-diy-thumbtacks/">ThinkCrafts</a>, and leave some love over there. I check for comments on my posts there, really! </div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-72715757028751007642014-04-13T15:38:00.001-04:002014-04-13T15:38:17.159-04:00March Maven Box Reveiw<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LAs1TUM_CiY/Uz40lU30tfI/AAAAAAAAD4s/X7TV7bdC4bM/s1600/MarchMaven4_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LAs1TUM_CiY/Uz40lU30tfI/AAAAAAAAD4s/X7TV7bdC4bM/s1600/MarchMaven4_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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Yes, this is a review from March. Yes, it's well into April at this point. Time just keeps getting away from me, okay? ;) I'm officially a week into my trip, but it feels like I've been gone <b><i>forever</i></b>... I really don't consider myself a "needy" kind of girlfriend, and I really didn't think that not seeing boyfriend for 3+ weeks would be THAT hard, but <i>holy</i> crap, I am feeling so needy. It's not as bad when I'm out with friends or keeping busy, but sleeping alone is so sad! I hate it, and I'm officially that needy girl... I put a countdown on my phone for when we reunite in Vegas -- ha! </div>
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I'm typing this on part one of my flight(s) to Hawaii (we have a layover in Seattle), and I'm hoping that I miss boyfriend less when I'm soaking up the Hawaiian sun and sipping an endless stream of mai tais. On a semi-related note, I got a spray tan yesterday to avoid being the palest person on Oahu, and now my hands are orange. Cuuuute... ;)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lqyxjirL8p8/Uz40k_eZI4I/AAAAAAAAD4o/pX4WErsuFyg/s1600/MarchMaven3_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lqyxjirL8p8/Uz40k_eZI4I/AAAAAAAAD4o/pX4WErsuFyg/s1600/MarchMaven3_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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But let's talk about my latest obsession, Julep Maven, for a minute. I wrote up a post a while ago giving the run down of the <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2014/02/julep-maven-box-review.html">whole Maven program</a>, how amazing it is to get new, exclusive nail polishes in the mail each month, and how much I love the products. Now I want to show you one of my latest boxes: the March Maven box. The month's collection centered on bright, spring time shades and new lip products to smooth and soften your winter-ravaged pout. Yet again I couldn't decided which style to chose, so I ordered the "ultimate upgrade," which included all 9 new polishes, the luxe lip gloss, and the lip scrub. I also added on Julep's other two new shades: Tania and Rae. </div>
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I will say, that while I really do love all the colors, it felt a touch early for a spring palette up in Michigan. Michigan is only now seeing a little warmth and sunshine, so painting my nails bright, poppy colors felt strange at the beginning of March. I was surprised that one of my favorite colors from the collection was Soraphine, a sheer white polish. I used it as a base and top coat for a pastel tips mani that I shared on my Instagram a while back. (Speaking of which, I am obsessed with Instagram; <a href="http://followgram.me/monmakesthings">are we friends?!</a>) I also love Tania, the "mermaid teal glitter," and Rae, one of the "colors of the year." </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AfovEPyhP3M/Uz40k5g_SuI/AAAAAAAAD4g/oywIiLZWAbM/s1600/MarchMaven2_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AfovEPyhP3M/Uz40k5g_SuI/AAAAAAAAD4g/oywIiLZWAbM/s1600/MarchMaven2_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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I'm looking forward to getting more wear out of the polishes this summer, and the lip scrub is okay, but the real rock star of this box is the luxe lip gloss... This stuff is AMAZING. It's made with pumpkin oil and all kinds of other good-for-your-lips stuff, is a perfectly subtle shade of peachy-nude, has a metal tip applicator that cools as it applies, and most importantly, makes your lips feel like <i>buttah'</i>. I'm telling you, if your lips get dry or rough,<i> you need this balm/gloss in your arsenal!</i> It is the one lip product I opted to include in my 1-quart bag of liquids for my trip. </div>
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I'm still obsessed with Julep Maven. I still tell all my friends about it. My collection is getting ridiculous. </div>
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Get a <b>free</b> box when you sign up to be a Maven here --> <a href="http://www.julep.com/rewardsref/index/refer/id/518001/">Sign Up!</a> <-- and="" at="" checkout.="" code="" enter="" nbsp="" p=""><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-70384559288327226162014-04-07T17:02:00.001-04:002014-04-07T17:05:36.213-04:00Ombre Chevron Embroidery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm posting this from Chicago, the first leg of my big giant trip. It hasn't really set in yet that this is it, I'm <i>on</i> my trip. I'm catching a bus to St. Louis in just over an hour where I'll be visiting some family I haven't seen in ages. The good news is that my first bus here was nowhere near sketchty, which is what I had feared. Two lessons I've learned so far: for jeans to be truly mutli-purpose they must be a <i>good, unfaded</i> dark wash, and that to secure a good, non-motion-sickness-inducing seat on the bus, you must show up plenty early. </div>
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Anyway, a while back, I posted a chevron embroidery project I stitched up, and I'm still pretty smitten with how it turned out. I bought the pattern on Etsy and switched up the thread colors, and then it sat on a shelf for months because I wanted to "finish" the back and never bothered to look up how. Do you ever do that to your projects? Neglect them because you're waiting to make them "perfect?"</div>
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Regardless, that cross-stich project gave me the stitchin' bug, and as with most projects I wanted to come up with my own version. I did some searching and ended up downloading the "StitchSketchLE" app on my iPad and messing around with designs. I wanted something simple, because I'm a simple kind of girl, but you can also use a stylus pen to freehand draw something! You can save and email the pattern file to yourself for printing, and then voila, you've got an original cross-stitch design! </div>
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So I used three shades of green thread, though the difference between the last two does not look terribly obvious in these photos. I also gave up on "finishing" the hoops and just cut the cloth in a sloppy circle and called it good. I'm trying to really embrace imperfections. Tell me I'm not alone in that struggle... Do you have a hard time calling a project "finished?"</div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-52719258608640210142014-03-23T17:01:00.000-04:002014-03-23T17:01:49.329-04:00By Bus & By Plane: My Cross-Country Trip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have been dreaming of a cross-country road trip since before I enrolled in driver's ed classes at age 14. I LOVE road trips, and while I have not taken nearly as many as I would have liked thus far, I am forever trying to talk friends and family members into lengthy drives to far off cities. They usually turn me down. </div>
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As my college graduation drew nearer and nearer this past fall, I decided that this was my chance. Butttt, then the practicality of taking such a trip solo seemed questionable, and both my mother and my boyfriend were pretty concerned about the potential risks. So I reluctantly started looking at bus and plane tickets, and was pleasantly surprised at how reasonable the prices were! I made a list of all the cities my friends and family have dispersed to over the last few years, and drew up an itinerary! </div>
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I'm hitting 12 cities in 9 states over about 6.5 weeks. Epic, right?! I'm leaving in less than TWO WEEKS! Ah! I'm starting with a bus to Chicago, then another bus to St. Louis to visit some family. Then I'm taking a bus back to Chicago and my bestie is flying to Honolulu with me! The top group of photos in this post are from <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2013/05/hawaii-in-instagrams.html">my trip to Hawaii last year</a>. I'm counting myself as very lucky to have a best pal stationed in paradise for three years -- can't beat free lodging on a beautiful island! </div>
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From Hawaii I'm flying to Seattle to visit a friend from college, then LA to see a friend from high school. From LA, I'm meeting boyfriend in Vegas for a few days, before we both fly to Denver. From Denver, I'm going to Dallas, taking a bus to Austin, visiting San Antonio, and ending my Texas tour in Houston. The second group of photos here is from a host of past Texas trips I've taken -- a number of my Michigan-relatives have moved to Texas these past few years. From Houston, I'm flying to Jacksonville to see an old college roommate, and then I'm heading home! </div>
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I'm looking at this trip as an opportunity to grow and breathe and explore. I'd like to come back with new perspectives, a better sense of self, and a fresh take on old dreams. I'm excited about the adventure and a little apprehensive about the challenges (money, being away from my boyfriend, general travel anxieties). I'm determined to travel light, nothing but a carry-on and my JoTotes camera bag. </div>
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Planning outfits that will work in both Hawaii and Seattle, and that can go from day to night, has been another challenge in itself. Any pointers for packing or planning or traveling would be appreciated!! </div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-69230573252642290622014-03-14T09:00:00.000-04:002014-03-14T09:00:01.430-04:00Crochet Shamrocks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sgSV_oHgdVU/Ux_UHoUUIPI/AAAAAAAAD0E/yRvA74fm5tc/s1600/CrochetShamrocks6_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sgSV_oHgdVU/Ux_UHoUUIPI/AAAAAAAAD0E/yRvA74fm5tc/s1600/CrochetShamrocks6_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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Good news friends. I am 100% healed from my cold-of-death, woot! Now March is halfway over and I have no idea where the days have gone. I'm gearing up for a big trip that I haven't even told you about yet, but more on that later. Right now I want to show you these shamrocks I made from some crochet hearts. Look how cute! And super simple. Check out <a href="http://thinkcrafts.com/blog/2014/03/13/crochet-shamrocks/">the full tutorial</a> on the Think Crafts blog and leave some love! </div>
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My birthday is in less than a week. The big 2-4. I'll have to accept that I'm officially in my mid-twenties... MID-twenties. I've been having a lot of dreams that I'm back in high school lately. What does that mean?? Like, I'll wake up and forget that college even happened. Weird, right? I wonder what it means... </div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-87263892711009466042014-03-06T09:00:00.000-05:002014-03-06T13:53:10.009-05:00Crazy Easy Circle Garland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JJKVD9DEPu8/UxfmfS76z_I/AAAAAAAADvw/W5w-3Bmwl7Q/s1600/Beer%252BBaconParty6_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JJKVD9DEPu8/UxfmfS76z_I/AAAAAAAADvw/W5w-3Bmwl7Q/s1600/Beer%252BBaconParty6_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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I don't know about you, but I am so over winter weather it's not even funny. This has been one brutal season here in the mitten state, and I have had more cold and flu bugs than I care to recall. Currently, I'm hold up with my worst cold yet, caught in the midst of a "cleanse" I was doing, that I'm now convinced just weakened my system for this monster of a virus. How's that for a run-on sentence? Have you ever done a cleanse? It was awful and I don't recommend it, hah. I quit on "bananas and milk" day because I was miserable enough with this cold -- too miserable to also be starving. And who wants to drink MILK when they're all sick and phlegmy? Gross. And sorry if that's TMI. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LuvGvaAz0zY/UxfmfHUfWRI/AAAAAAAADvo/qVRuNr2acSo/s1600/CircleGarland1_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LuvGvaAz0zY/UxfmfHUfWRI/AAAAAAAADvo/qVRuNr2acSo/s1600/CircleGarland1_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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Anyway, let's talk parties. This is my go to, super simple, crazy easy DIY party decor. It works up insanely quickly, uses scraps and supplies on hand, is easily customizable, and it makes a LOT. Of course, if you saw my post about <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2014/02/beer-bacon-party-manly-30th-birthday.html">boyfriend's beer + bacon birthday party</a>, you know that's what I made this particular garland for. My brother thought that I had hand stitched each circle onto the garland, HA! As if I have that kind of patience. Or skill. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3MqRMwYn5q0/Uxfme3-iwnI/AAAAAAAADvk/JylXF8Y9FzU/s1600/Beer%252BBaconParty5_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3MqRMwYn5q0/Uxfme3-iwnI/AAAAAAAADvk/JylXF8Y9FzU/s1600/Beer%252BBaconParty5_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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All you need is a circle punch (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-Squeeze-Punch-X-Large-Round/dp/B000OMZXP6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1394081404&sr=8-1&keywords=fiskars+round+punch">this design by Fiskars</a> is AWESOME), patterned paper (I used scraps), and a sewing machine. Simply punch a whole buncha circles and feed them into your sewing machine one by one. As soon as one is stitched through, thread in the next. If you wait too long between circles, the threads may tangle and break -- it may take some trial and error to get it down. Be sure to backstitch the first and last circles on your garland to secure the thread. Some tips: Be careful of letting one strand of garland get <i>too</i> long, as it could get tough to manage. Use double-sided paper if you can (you can see barcodes on some of my circles above, oops). </div>
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Easy peasy right? Now if anyone has any quick tips to kick colds, I am begging you to share. Seriously. This congestion is killin' me, y'all. </div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-72797516466574108992014-02-27T09:00:00.000-05:002014-02-27T09:00:00.823-05:00Beer + Bacon Party: A Manly 30th Birthday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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YOU GUYS, my boyfriend turned the big 3-0 this past Tuesday. THE BIG 3-0! Now, I'm nowhere near 30 myself, but I mean, it's a pretty big deal right? Quite the milestone. I haven't talked about my boyfriend too much on the blog here, but he's definitely the introvert to my extrovert. I wasn't <i>positive</i> that he'd be stoked about a surprise party thrown in his honor, but I dig birthdays. Your birthday is the one day a year where the people who love you get to celebrate the fact that you were born, the very fact that you exist. Maybe that sounds dramatic, but that's how I've always felt about birthdays. And a surprise party thrown for you is like the epitome of saying, "Hey, we love you a ton and are super glad you're on the planet!" I think that everyone should be celebrated with a surprise party at some point in their lives... So after a lot of hemming and hawing, I finally decided to throw one together with a mere three weeks to plan. Classic me. </div>
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After finally deciding to actually throw a party, I had to come up with the first pieces: a location and a theme. I landed on my mom's house because it's nearby, <i>free</i>, and I could decorate in secret to my heart's content. I did some searching for things like "dude party," "manly 30th birthday," etc. before settling on a Beer + Bacon theme! At the beginning of the year, boyfriend made it his new year's resolution to try more beer (way more fun than "lose 10 pounds," right?) so I thought that a beer tasting would be perfect! And like, name a manlier food that goes better with beer than bacon.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XxqJ8DtzblM/Uw6IJ-A9oPI/AAAAAAAADp8/bDzbDTX4tCc/s1600/Beer%252BBacon02_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XxqJ8DtzblM/Uw6IJ-A9oPI/AAAAAAAADp8/bDzbDTX4tCc/s1600/Beer%252BBacon02_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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Overall the party was certainly a success. Not all of our friends were able to attend, of course, but all who did spent hours laughing and drinking with us; what more can you ask for? We had a photo booth, goodie bags, <i>tons</i> of food, boatloads of beer, and most importantly, boyfriend was completely surprised! Though his tendency to avoid the spotlight had him overwhelmed at first, he really enjoyed himself and has been filled with appreciation ever since. He's the sweetest.</div>
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I'm hoping to follow this post with a short series on the party prep (food, decor, photo booth, etc.) so stay tuned for that. <b>What are you most interested in hearing about?</b></div>
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A teaser: I baked, fried, and <i>candied</i> <b>7 pounds </b>of bacon for the big event, and had wayyy more than enough food. I've been trying to pawn off bacon goodies on friends, family, and coworkers ever since. Maple bacon donuts, anyone? </div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-21311432842112474202014-02-18T11:23:00.001-05:002014-02-18T11:41:24.939-05:00Julep Maven Box: A Review + Link for a FREE box!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Right before Christmas, one of my cousins sent me an invitation to the Julep Maven subscription box. At first I thought, "A nail polish and beauty box? I never paint my nails and rarely bother with more than some powder and mascara. Nexxxxt!" Buttt, the first box was free and the website hooked me with their cute "which style are you" quiz, so I signed up to get a box thinking that I'd cancel after that free one. As you can probably tell by that first photo, I didn't cancel. Since the end of December, I have amassed a collection of 20 polishes.</div>
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I am seriously addicted, girls. If you <a href="http://followgram.me/monmakesthings">follow me on Instagram</a>, a.k.a. the only social media I actually use, you are well aware that in addition to my crochet projects, I now post a bunch of manicure photos. I can't get enough. I have gone from a plain jane girl with naked nails to a polish princess desperate to perfect the ombre mani. I blame my post-grad lifestyle of free evenings on the couch uninfringed by homework and research papers. I also blame all the pretty polishes, amazing deals, and fun contests that Julep keeps dangling in front of me. Seriously, this start-up rules. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BqZ2s0YnOiY/UwLp5kHldgI/AAAAAAAADmE/5EeyzR1dCvs/s1600/JulepMaven2_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BqZ2s0YnOiY/UwLp5kHldgI/AAAAAAAADmE/5EeyzR1dCvs/s1600/JulepMaven2_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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I should note that this review is 100% unsolicited. I have purchased all my own products, and Julep probably has no idea who I am (though the first Julep mani pic I posted <i>did</i> end up in one of their banner ads, <i>hayy-ayyy!</i>). That said: Dear Julep, If y'all want to send me some swag to gush over, be my guest. ;) But really readers, I just wanted to tell you girls how kick ass this box is. </div>
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So Julep itself is a start-up beauty company based in Seattle, Washington. From what I understand, they started out with nail parlors featuring their own polish line and have since expanded to makeup and skincare products as well. Read more about their history and philosophy (that beauty is about <i>connection</i>, not competition) on <a href="http://www.julep.com/about.html">their about page</a>. You can purchase their products on <a href="http://www.julep.com/">their website</a> without joining the Maven program I keep talking about, but lemme tell ya, the Maven program is where all the fun is. </div>
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<b>By joining Julep Maven</b>, you can buy <i>all</i> their products at discounted rates <i>plus</i> free shipping, you get monthly boxes filled with polishes and/or beauty products for $20/month, you get exclusive early access to the new products in those boxes, and you can rack up points for those monthly Maven boxes that you later cash in for future boxes!</div>
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If you haven't heard of Julep Maven (I hadn't), you have probably at least heard of BirchBox or the Ipsy Bag, right? Both are beauty subscription boxes that ship out monthly and feature an assortment of makeup, beauty, and/or lifestyle items for stylish gals. I've never been all that interested in those boxes personally, because for one, you don't know what's coming before hand, and for two, I don't really need or want little samples of lotion or blush in a random shade. </div>
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What I <i style="font-weight: bold;">love</i> about the Julep Maven program is that you can not only see what is coming in your box, you can also switch to a different set of products and colors, add products at a major discount, or skip the month altogether if you'd like. It's much more custom and you don't end up paying for things you don't want or need. </div>
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All that said, I am not addicted simply because it's fun to get things in the mail -- all the products I've received so far have been stellar. The polish is <i>high quality</i>, lasts for <i>days</i> without chipping, peeling, or rubbing off, and the colors, shades, and finishes are all phenomenal. In addition to the polishes, I've also received a skin serum, some moisturizing products, creme eyeshadows, and an ink eyeliner, all of which I have been incredibly pleased with. </div>
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<b>So let's talk nitty-gritty:</b> There are five style profiles (Classic with a Twist, Boho Glam, Bombshell, It Girl, and Modern Beauty). Each style profile has a different set of products each month. During the "Maven Reveal Window," you can see all the products coming out and pick whichever set you'd like. The boxes start at $20 and contain <i>at least</i> $40 worth of product, guaranteed. </div>
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Classic with a Twist, Boho Glam, and Bombshell all contain 2 new full sized polishes and one full sized beauty product; It Girl contains 3 new full sized polishes; and Modern Beauty contains 2 full sized beauty products. Even better, if you want the Modern Beauty box, for example, but love one of the month's new polishes, you can add it to your box on the cheap! <i>And</i> if you're not into the month's products or are trying to save some money, you can just skip the month! Buying the box and adding upgrades earn you points (or "Jules") that you can later redeem for a free Maven box. You also get points for referring friends! You can <a href="http://www.julep.com/maven-faq.html">read the FAQs</a> for more details. </div>
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Have I sold you yet? If you're into free things and pretty products, <a href="http://www.julep.com/rewardsref/index/refer/id/518001/">use this link to get a <b>FREE</b> box</a> <b>and enter code "MAVENBFF"</b> at checkout (you just pay $4 shipping!). If you aren't smitten with the box, you can cancel after that! If you are into it, I'm sorry and you're welcome. ;) </div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-88193400437323287322014-02-13T10:09:00.001-05:002014-02-13T10:09:54.776-05:00Pillow Box Valentine's<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Czb0Hfh2eAw/UvzfgSvoOlI/AAAAAAAADjw/5XPvNDufDqA/s1600/PillowBoxValentines6_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Czb0Hfh2eAw/UvzfgSvoOlI/AAAAAAAADjw/5XPvNDufDqA/s1600/PillowBoxValentines6_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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I was wandering the aisles of Meijer last night, doing some late night grocery shopping while boyfriend impatiently pushed the cart alongside me, when I spotted the giant display of kiddie Valentine packs. I know I'm not the only one who misses picking out some uber cheesy Valentine kit featuring your favorite Disney character, AM I RIGHT? Of course, weirdo child that I was, I started DIYing Valentine's for my classmates around the sixth grade. Oh, to be twelve and have nothing but time for crafts... </div>
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Now that I'm an adult (and by "adult," I mean that I have to pay bills, do my own laundry, and feed myself somehow, not that I'm like, responsible or that I have life figured out or that I've mastered time management) it seems like I have to scrape precious moments from each week to use for crafting. As a result, I always dream up projects that have inherent deadlines (like holidays) and don't actually make them, ever. Sorry family and friends, but let's be honest: As crafty and adorable as you think I am, you have not received a timely, cutesy gift like a Valentine from me in <i>yearsss</i>... THAT CHANGES NOW. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1b5RK_HBe54/UvxOB5t7MTI/AAAAAAAADjc/bD53s1WZxsE/s1600/MiniHearts22_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1b5RK_HBe54/UvxOB5t7MTI/AAAAAAAADjc/bD53s1WZxsE/s1600/MiniHearts22_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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As you may know, I made a bunch of <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2014/02/mini-crochet-heart-pattern.html?">these mini crochet hearts</a> while developing a pattern for y'all. Then I remembered these cute pillow boxes I found in the Target dollar section a couple months ago and hatched a plan for some DIY Valentine's. If you, like me, have a handful of crochet hearts laying around now, or if you feel like whipping some up real quick, you can tie them onto some pretty boxes filled with chocolates. If you are more normal than I am and <i>don't</i> have a random stockpile of crochet hearts, you could easily cut some out of some cardstock, punch a hole the heart sides, and tie them on that way! </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1dBuxFzgrDU/UvzfgAmqg3I/AAAAAAAADj0/Y7i7pNGYVBg/s1600/PillowBoxValentines3_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1dBuxFzgrDU/UvzfgAmqg3I/AAAAAAAADj0/Y7i7pNGYVBg/s1600/PillowBoxValentines3_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1SxcrdzIUfM/UvzfgGZCoJI/AAAAAAAADj4/ao01koFvKyc/s1600/PillowBoxValentines1_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1SxcrdzIUfM/UvzfgGZCoJI/AAAAAAAADj4/ao01koFvKyc/s1600/PillowBoxValentines1_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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I stuffed my pillow boxes with surprisingly tasty Hershey's Raspberry Hugs, tiny crochet hearts (get details in <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2013/02/diy-crochet-heart-garland.html">my old Crochet Heart Garland post</a>), and sequins for a touch of pretty. I taped the ends with solid and glitter washi tape, and then wrapped each box with a length of sparkly thread (I used Vana's Choice Glamour yarn). On the final pass of the thread, I used a yarn needle to pass each end of the thread through the heart from side to side, tying the thread ends at the back. </div>
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Are you DIYing any Valentine's this year? Tell me about that, friends. </div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-86898015813555762112014-02-10T17:34:00.000-05:002014-02-10T23:06:14.504-05:00Mini Crochet Heart Pattern<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6e-QhY0GBu4/Uvkz1kfZ1-I/AAAAAAAADhM/vCT-RfIdIXU/s1600/MiniHearts05_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6e-QhY0GBu4/Uvkz1kfZ1-I/AAAAAAAADhM/vCT-RfIdIXU/s1600/MiniHearts05_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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Everything's cuter in miniature, right? My <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2014/02/crochet-heart-pillow-pattern-tutorial.html">crochet heart pillow</a> had me longing for a mini version. It took some playing, as you well know if you follow me on <a href="http://followgram.me/monmakesthings">Instagram</a>, but I finally nailed down a pattern for y'all. A number of you mentioned that you had tried to make small hearts but were unsuccessful, so before I get into the pattern, let's talk about the basics of making a crochet heart... </div>
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If you've made a heart pillow from my pattern, this will likely sound familiar to you. You are essentially making two "humps" that you will join by completing a continuous round of stitches on both humps as if they were one piece. From there you will start your gradual decreases. That step requires some math... Here is how you can figure out the math ahead of time: the max number of stitches in each hump x 2, then plus 2 will give you the number of stitches in the first joined row. To figure out your decreases, you will need to think about the multiples of that number. For example, if each hump has 12 stitches, your first joined row will be (12x2) + 2 = 26. 26 is an awkward number to start with, with only 2 and 13 as it's divisors. To get down to an easier number (like 24, for example), you'll need to get rid of 2 stitches. To get rid of 2 stitches, you'll need to do 2 single (or double) crochet decreases. To figure out that math, you'll divide the number you want, 24, by the number of decreases you need, 2, for a total of 12. This means that you will do 11 stitches followed by 1 decrease, and 11 more stitches followed by 1 decrease for a total of 24. A number like 24 is easier to work with, because it has plenty of divisors (2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12). You can then decrease gradually by multiples of 4, for example, using the same formula. Each row would have 4 less stitches, meaning each row would contain 4 decreases. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--UXN_AW-mng/Uvkz7mW1g4I/AAAAAAAADhs/pueonIoD5Ew/s1600/MiniHearts21_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--UXN_AW-mng/Uvkz7mW1g4I/AAAAAAAADhs/pueonIoD5Ew/s1600/MiniHearts21_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DbWKJsjpXPY/Uvkz5paMKHI/AAAAAAAADhc/cotffSd0Vms/s1600/MiniHearts19_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DbWKJsjpXPY/Uvkz5paMKHI/AAAAAAAADhc/cotffSd0Vms/s1600/MiniHearts19_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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Okay, okay. I apologize for all that mumbo jumbo if you weren't interested. A good friend once told me that she tried to learn crochet, but it was secretly so mathy... I laughed, but she's totally right. Crochet like this definitely requires a brush-up on your multiplication and addition skills, right? </div>
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All that said, I made up most of the hearts pictured here on the fly, using all those mathy basics. I did, however, write up a concrete pattern for you to follow if you <i>don't</i> feel like calculating your stitches. ;) </div>
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<b>Stuff You'll Need: </b></div>
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medium weight cotton yarn (I used Sugar & Cream), size H crochet hook, yarn needle, scissors, fiberfill (optional)</div>
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*Note, I am using US crochet terms. </div>
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Abbreviations: <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arimo; line-height: 17px;">st = stitch, sc = single crochet, slpst = </span><span class="linksmart_marketplace" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arimo; line-height: 17px;">slip</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arimo; line-height: 17px;"> stitch, invdec = invisible decrease</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arimo;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">*If you aren't familiar with the invisible decrease, you can easily substitute with a regular decrease/2 single crochets together.</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_91jofQVCNM/UvlKiuV2dEI/AAAAAAAADiU/MHYv4f-7yk0/s1600/MiniHearts01_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_91jofQVCNM/UvlKiuV2dEI/AAAAAAAADiU/MHYv4f-7yk0/s1600/MiniHearts01_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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This pattern is worked in continuous rounds without joining or turning. </div>
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<b>Rnd 1 - </b>Make a magic ring, 5 sc in ring, pull ring tight and sew closed = 5 sc</div>
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<b>Rnd 2 - </b>2 sc in each st around = 10 sc</div>
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<b>Rnd 3 - </b>1 sc in each st around = 10 sc</div>
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<b>Rnd 4 -</b> *4 sc, 2 sc in next st,* rep from * around = 12 sc</div>
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With your first hump, cut your yarn as shown above and thread your yarn needle. Insert your needle through the next st, then back through the current st. Leave the tail for sewing later. </div>
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Make a second hump (rounds 1 - 4), but do not cut the yarn. Instead you will begin round 5 in the first st of round 4 on the first hump. See the photos for details. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xbvTgWsuCC4/UvlKinxxJ6I/AAAAAAAADiY/IwbRYb1aHtY/s1600/MiniHearts02_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xbvTgWsuCC4/UvlKinxxJ6I/AAAAAAAADiY/IwbRYb1aHtY/s1600/MiniHearts02_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>Rnd 5 - </b>sc in first st of rnd 4 on first hump, sc around first hump, sc again in first st of rnd, sc in same st as final st of rnd 4 on second hump, sc around second hump = 26 sc</div>
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<b>Rnd 6 - </b>*11 sc, invdec* repeat from * around = 24 sc</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pMqCjU3J-FA/UvlKijFQGxI/AAAAAAAADiQ/E-8hO607Rs0/s1600/MiniHearts03_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pMqCjU3J-FA/UvlKijFQGxI/AAAAAAAADiQ/E-8hO607Rs0/s1600/MiniHearts03_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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Use yarn tail from first hump to sew hole between humps together. Tie off and weave in end.</div>
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<b>Rnd 7 - </b>*6 sc, invdec* repeat from * around = 21 sc</div>
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<b>Rnd 8 - </b>*5 sc, invdec* repeat from * around = 18 sc</div>
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<b>Rnd 9 - </b>*4 sc, invdec* repeat from * around = 15 sc</div>
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<b>Rnd 10 - </b>*sc, invdec* repeat from * around = 10 sc</div>
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<b>Rnd 11 - </b>invdec around, fasten off without joining = 5 sc</div>
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Use yarn tail to sew end closed.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KAFpq0GBGFo/UvkzzbutnZI/AAAAAAAADhA/MXJwHjEwa0I/s1600/MiniHearts04_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KAFpq0GBGFo/UvkzzbutnZI/AAAAAAAADhA/MXJwHjEwa0I/s1600/MiniHearts04_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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Like I said, I mostly made up these hearts as I went along, and you can easily tweak it to your liking. I went back and forth with the humps, some have 4 rounds while others have 5. For a deeper "v" in the center, add a fifth round with 12 stitches. You can also stuff the hearts if you like, though I personally like how they look unstuffed. If you'd like to stuff them, add fiberfill after round 9 or 10 at the latest. You can also use a G hook instead of an H for tighter stitches -- the white, pink <i>(not purple)</i>, and orange heart is worked with a G hook. </div>
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Wouldn't these make the sweetest little Valentine's? Little handmade, crochet hearts with a sweet note attached? What do you think, friends? Will you be hooking up some little hearts this week? </div>
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<img border="0" class="nopin" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9vzkGV7_Qz8/UTQ1Ajz3kzI/AAAAAAAABys/wgDYKwMEGjw/s1600/____Signature.png" /></div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-4230486723918367522014-02-04T08:00:00.000-05:002014-02-04T08:00:00.021-05:00Crochet Heart Pillow: Pattern & Tutorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fGwuhqPSrAQ/UvB0D7N7vTI/AAAAAAAADfc/yzysry-_Q9M/s1600/CrochetHeartPillow01_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fGwuhqPSrAQ/UvB0D7N7vTI/AAAAAAAADfc/yzysry-_Q9M/s1600/CrochetHeartPillow01_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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If you've been hanging around here for a while, you may be like, "Girrrrl, you already posted your crochet heart pillow -- you cray?!" And you aren't wrong. Since I posted my original pattern a year ago, I have gotten a <i>lot</i> of questions about the pattern specifics and particular steps in the process. I have also tweaked the pattern a bit, and thought I'd put together an updated tutorial for all a y'all. I hope this makes things clearer, and <i style="font-weight: bold;">please</i>, let me know if you have any more questions! </div>
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**Access the original pattern post <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2013/02/crochet-heart-pillow.html">here</a>. I also have it posted to Ravelry <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crochet-heart-pillow">here</a>.**</div>
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<b>Stuff You'll Need:</b> size N crochet hook, 1 skein bulky weight yarn, 2 colors worsted weight yarn, scissors, large yarn needle, stuffing/fiberfill</div>
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Here is the basic pattern (I'll follow with details and photos below): </div>
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<i>*Note, I am using US crochet terms</i></div>
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Abbreviations: ch = chain, st = stitch, dc = double crochet, slpst = slip stitch, dc2tog = double crochet 2 together/double crochet decrease</div>
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<b>Rnd 1 - </b>Using all three yarn strands at once, make a magic ring. Ch 2 (does <i>not</i> count as st throughout), 7 dc in ring. Slpst to top of first dc to join. = 7 dc</div>
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<b>Rnd 2 - </b>Ch 2, 2dc in each st around. Slpst to top of first dc to join. = 14 dc</div>
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<b>Rnd 3 - </b>Ch 2, *dc, 2dc in next st,* repeat around. Slpst to top of first dc to join. = 21 dc</div>
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<b>Rnd 4 -</b> Ch 2, dc in each st around. Slpst to top of first dc to join. = 21 dc</div>
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<b>Rnd 5 - </b>Ch 2, *dc in each of next 6 sts, 2dc in next st,* repeat from * twice. Slpst to top of first dc to join. = 24 dc</div>
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Fasten off, cut yarn leaving a tail of about 6", and set aside. Begin at round 1 again to make a second "hump." When you finish your second hump, <i>do not fasten off. </i>Instead, you will slip stitch into one of the Rnd5 stitches on your first hump, and start at round 6:</div>
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<b>Rnd 6 - </b>Ch 2, (working in first hump) dc in each of next 23 sts, 2dc in next st, (move to second hump) dc in each of next 23 sts, 2 dc in final st. Slpst to top of first dc (on first hump) to join. = 50 dc</div>
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<b>Rnd 7 - </b>Ch 2, *dc in each of next 8 sts, dc2tog over next 2 sts,* repeat from * four times. Slpst to top of first dc to join. = 45 dc</div>
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<i>Using your yarn needle and yarn tail from first hump, sew together hole formed between humps.</i></div>
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<b>Rnd 8 - </b>Ch 2, *dc in each of next 7 sts, dc2tog over next 2 sts,* repeat from * four times. Slpst to top of first dc to join. = 40 dc </div>
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<b>Rnd 9 - </b>Ch 2, *dc in each of next 6 sts, dc2tog over next 2 sts,* repeat from * four times. Slpst to top of first dc to join. = 35 dc </div>
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<b>Rnd 10 - </b>Ch 2, *dc in each of next 5 sts, dc2tog over next 2 sts,* repeat from * four times. Slpst to top of first dc to join. = 30 dc </div>
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<b>Rnd 11 - </b>Ch 2, *dc in each of next 4 sts, dc2tog over next 2 sts,* repeat from * four times. Slpst to top of first dc to join. = 25 dc </div>
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<b>Rnd 12 - </b>Ch 2, *dc in each of next 3 sts, dc2tog over next 2 sts,* repeat from * four times. Slpst to top of first dc to join. = 20 dc </div>
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<i>Begin stuffing heart at this point. </i></div>
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<b>Rnd 13 - </b>Ch 2, *dc in each of next 2 sts, dc2tog over next 2 sts,* repeat from * four times. Slpst to top of first dc to join. = 15 dc </div>
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<b>Rnd 14 - </b>Ch 2, *dc in next st, dc2tog over next 2 sts,* repeat from * four times. Slpst to top of first dc to join. = 10 dc </div>
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<i>Add rest of stuffing so that pillow is firm, but crochet is not stretching. </i></div>
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<b>Rnd 15 - </b>Ch 2, *dc2tog over next 2 sts,* repeat from * four times. Slpst to top of first dc to join. = 5 dc </div>
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Cut yarn, leaving a long tail for sewing. Sew base of heart closed and weave in ends. </div>
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Now for some notes about the pattern... </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXhZGW1tak4/UvB0HR7TThI/AAAAAAAADf4/9Es7NPtwNCo/s1600/CrochetHeartPillow04_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXhZGW1tak4/UvB0HR7TThI/AAAAAAAADf4/9Es7NPtwNCo/s1600/CrochetHeartPillow04_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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The 2 chains at the beginning of each round are there to fill in the space formed by joining two double crochet stitches at the end and <i style="font-weight: bold;">do not</i> count as a stitch. You will basically work each round like those stitches aren't there, skipping over them when you join at the end. You can see this join more clearly in the photos above. Also important, <i style="font-weight: bold;">the first double crochet of each round is worked in the SAME STITCH as the chains</i>. You can see this above as well. (click the photos to enlarge if necessary)</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4vaew_CZuA0/UvB0Gk8WzAI/AAAAAAAADfo/3gRo2dnuQ7Q/s1600/CrochetHeartPillow03_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4vaew_CZuA0/UvB0Gk8WzAI/AAAAAAAADfo/3gRo2dnuQ7Q/s1600/CrochetHeartPillow03_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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These are some detail photos of the "hump joining" (HAAA). The joining of the humps... HAAA... Okay, anyway, the first photo shows the slip stitch from the second hump into the first hump. The second shows the beginning of round 6, working in the first hump. I always slip stitch into the first stitch of round 5 on the first hump, so that my yarn tail is in the middle for sewing (shown in the following photos). </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Osmg3q9OTs/UvB0G95kYFI/AAAAAAAADfw/6us-SqKnRBo/s1600/CrochetHeartPillow02_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Osmg3q9OTs/UvB0G95kYFI/AAAAAAAADfw/6us-SqKnRBo/s1600/CrochetHeartPillow02_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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When you finish round 6, you will notice a hole between the two humps. If you don't notice it by then, you will certainly notice it soon. I instructed you to sew it together sooner than shown here -- I wanted the hole to be really obvious in photos, so I stuffed my heart first <i>but</i> it will be easier if you sew it while the heart is unstuffed and the base is still pretty open. All you're going to do is thread your yarn needle with the yarn tail from the first hump, sew together the hole, tie off, and weave in the end. I try to sew on the underside of the stitches so it's less obvious when the heart is finished. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KQQUxAA8MxU/UvB0H51M5pI/AAAAAAAADf8/oVUiCZ48jXA/s1600/CrochetHeartPillow05_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KQQUxAA8MxU/UvB0H51M5pI/AAAAAAAADf8/oVUiCZ48jXA/s1600/CrochetHeartPillow05_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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So there you have it, my updated heart pattern! I switched the decreases to all multiples of 5 because it's easier for me to keep it all straight. Crochet can be so math-y, am I right?? This ends up making the heart a bit narrower than the original, but I actually like it better. </div>
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My favorite thing about this project is the marbled effect you get from using multiple yarns. Nope, I lied. It's actually how quickly this works up because you're using multiple yarns. But the marbled look is good too. ;) What do you think? Do these photos help those of you who've attempted the pattern before? Do you have any more questions? </div>
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<b>If you've made a heart pillow,</b> please, email me at monmakesthings[at]gmail[dot]com, leave a link in the comments, or show me on Facebook/Instagram! </div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-90900401318463320642014-01-29T16:21:00.001-05:002014-01-29T16:21:55.452-05:00Basic Granny Square Tutorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So. Many. Granny squares... Thanks to the <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/search/label/crochet%20mood%20blanket">Crochet Mood Blanket</a>, I am freaking obsessed. I wanted to try my hand at the basic, old school granny, because truth be told, it has been years since I've made one. I've seen a bunch of people on the Mood Blanket social media pages bummin' out about their "basic squares" being "boring," and I'm over here like, "pfft, look at dem simple squares lookin' fab." I also saw some newbie crocheters struggling with their squares, so I thought a good photo tutorial may be helpful to some.</div>
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I'm sharing the full post at my side gig, ThinkCrafts. <a href="http://thinkcrafts.com/blog/2014/01/29/basic-granny-square-tutorial/">Check it out</a> and make some squares with me! </div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-24246721587259198662014-01-21T09:30:00.000-05:002014-01-21T09:30:01.602-05:00Crochet Mood Blanket: Week 3 Reflections<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yIaD5nO8g5I/UtwxR2qDcRI/AAAAAAAADbw/9_QW9fKAl1M/s1600/CMB2Week6_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yIaD5nO8g5I/UtwxR2qDcRI/AAAAAAAADbw/9_QW9fKAl1M/s1600/CMB2Week6_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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Three weeks in, and I am loving this project. As I <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2014/01/crochet-mood-blanket-interview-with.html">wrote about before</a>, the social media groups surrounding the Crochet Mood Blanket project are so inspiring! I am loving interacting with other "hookers" around the world, and thanks to all their gorgeous blankets, I am jonesing to make a million more projects. I want to make squares and hexagons and stripes until I'm out of yarn! It's also given me the push to work on my ol' <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2013/03/granny-blanket-progress.html">granny hexagon blanket</a> from years past.. Remember that one?!</div>
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I am using Loops & Threads Impeccable for my mood blanket. I did not make a chart for colors and moods, but am instead choosing a color that I feel is appropriate each day. I didn't want to make a chart, because I think emotions are complicated and layered and fluid; I don't think a chart would properly map out my days, you know? I just don't think I can categorize a whole day as "angry," "sad," or "happy." I am, however, trying to categorize days as good or bad. I am adding a border to all my squares: white for good days, off-white for less-than-good days. I'm also keeping a journal to write down why I chose each color, though we'll see how long I can keep up with that. I wrote up my own square pattern and you can find the tutorial <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2014/01/arden-granny-square-pattern.html">here</a>. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2wC_8Y9wzdY/UtwxJ5UrlxI/AAAAAAAADbM/fHmJAlSDD9o/s1600/CMB2Week2_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2wC_8Y9wzdY/UtwxJ5UrlxI/AAAAAAAADbM/fHmJAlSDD9o/s1600/CMB2Week2_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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Something that has really surprised me about this project is how enlightening it has been to actively think about and reflect on my mood. Truth be told, I don't think I've given "mood" much thought until now, but if I had been asked, I probably would have said something about how mood is a choice or that mood is determined by the day's events. While I don't disagree with those statements, it has been really interesting to notice how I feel upon waking up, before any "daily events" have weighed on me and before making any "decisions" about my mood. There have been days when I have simply woken up cranky and I have no idea why; days that felt heavy or depressing despite being undeniably similar to many others that felt fine. </div>
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Furthermore, when I wanted to do the "good v. bad" days with different borders, I thought I would have almost <i>all</i> white borders, because I consider myself such an optimist. While I still consider myself an optimist, I have realized that calling a heavy-feeling, so-so, boring kind of day "good" merely because it wasn't <i>awful</i> and because it's nicer to call it good than bad, is silly. I have realized that I don't like to call things "bad," but that doesn't mean they aren't... You know? I've been striving to be more honest about my mood with myself, rather than painting everything rosey because it's nicer. </div>
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Like I said, I am loving this project. It has been both inspiring and self-revealing thus far, and we're only three weeks in! </div>
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Are <b><i>you</i></b> participating? What do you think of the project? </div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-78556970205411568802014-01-17T09:00:00.000-05:002014-01-17T11:07:38.133-05:00Arden Granny Square Pattern <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I played and played with square patterns for my <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2014/01/crochet-mood-blanket-interview-with.html">crochet mood blanket</a>. At first I wanted to do "<a href="http://millemakes.wordpress.com/2011/05/22/something-pretty-the-pattern/">Something Pretty</a>" by Millie Makes. I <i>loveee</i> those squares, but I knew they were simply too time consuming for me to realistically keep up with for the whole year... So I'll save that pattern for a smaller project. For the mood blanket, I wanted my squares to be simple enough to finish quickly, but textural and interesting enough to keep me interested. This is what I came up with. I think they look kind of like snowflakes in a way! With some stitches worked in the back loop, the switch from a circle to a square, and some stitches worked in the front post, I think they look more intricate than they really are (which is <i>baaaasically</i> what I was going for). </div>
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I'm using <b>worsted weight yarn</b> (Loops & Threads Impeccable) and a <b>size H</b> hook. *US crochet terms*</div>
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<b>Abbreviations: </b>ch = chain, hdc = half double crochet, dc = double crochet, tr = treble crochet, st = stitch, sp = space, sk = skip, slpst = slip stitch, bl = back loop, fp = front post</div>
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*To work in back loops, insert hook from the middle of the stitch through the back loop -- see photo 3 for a close up.*</div>
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*To work around the front post, insert hook from front to back in the space before a stitch, then around from back to front through the space after that stitch. Basically, rather than working <i>in</i> a stitch, you are working <i>around</i> a stitch. You want your stitch to end up on top of the stitch you're working around, not underneath -- see photo 9 for a close up.*</div>
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<b>Rnd 1 - </b>Make a magic ring. Ch 4 [=1 tr], make 11 tr in ring. Slpst to top of ch4 to join. Pull ring closed and weave in end. = 12 sts (<i>see photo 1)</i></div>
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<b>Rnd 2 - </b>Ch 3 [=1 dc] <i>(see photo 2)</i>, dc in back loop of same st. 2 dc in bl of each st around. <i>(see photo 3) </i>Slpst to top of ch3 to join. = 24 sts</div>
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<b>Rnd 3 -</b> Ch 3 [=1 dc] <i>(see photo 4), </i>in sp between current and next st [dc, tr, ch 1, tr, 2 dc]. <i>(see photo 5) *</i>Sk 2 sts, hdc in next 3 sps. Sk 2 sts, [2 dc, tr, ch 1, tr, 2 dc] in next sp.* <i>(see photo 6)</i> Repeat from * twice. Sk 2 sts, hdc in next 3 sps, slpst to top of ch3 to join. Fasten off, weave in ends. <i>(see photo 7) </i>= 36 sts (not including 4 ch sps/corners)</div>
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<b>Rnd 4 - </b>In border color, begin with a standing dc in a corner sp. In the same sp, [dc, tr, ch 1, tr, 2 dc]. <i>(see photo 8) </i>*Sk 3 sts, 2 dc in next sp. Sk 1 st, dc around fp of next st. Sk 1 st, 2 dc in next sp. <i>(see photo 9)</i> Sk 3 sts, [2 dc, tr, ch 1, tr, 2 dc] in next sp.* <i>(see photo 10) </i>Repeat from * twice. Sk 3 sts, 2 dc in next sp. Sk 1 st, dc around fp of next st. Sk 1 st, 2 dc in next sp. Slpst to top of beginning dc to join. Fasten off, weave in ends. = 44 sts (not including ch sps/corners)</div>
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I'm doing the join as you go method for my mood blanket (good tutorial <a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/joining-asyougo-sqaures.html">on Attic24</a>). I'm also making a bunch of the colored portions ahead of time, so that on busy days, I can grab a pre-made middle that suits my mood and simply add the border! </div>
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What do you think? Is the pattern more complicated than I think it is? I don't know that I'm a great judge of that sort of thing -- and writing out a pattern so that it's easy to read is tough! I'd love your feedback, readers. ♥♥</div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-65642572442465972722014-01-09T09:00:00.000-05:002014-01-09T10:14:28.875-05:00Crochet Mood Blanket: Interview with the Creator<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ldgybJbGeVU/Us4WGF6-O_I/AAAAAAAADTc/c_3bmFA75PQ/s1600/MonMakesThings_Blanket1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ldgybJbGeVU/Us4WGF6-O_I/AAAAAAAADTc/c_3bmFA75PQ/s1600/MonMakesThings_Blanket1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you follow me on Instagram, you may have already noticed me blowin' up your feed with crochet granny squares and hashtags about blankets. If you don't follow me on Instagram, you should probably start. ;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am beyond excited about this project. What IS this project, you ask? A "crochet mood blanket!" The idea is to crochet either a granny square or a stripe each day for the year, using a color that depicts your mood. The project was thought up by Instagram user <a href="http://followgram.me/mummy_stacey">mummy_stacey</a>, AKA Stacey Wentford-Hall, and much to her surprise, it went viral! As of now, there are over 2,200 members of the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/crochetmoodblanket2014/">Crochet Mood Blanket Facebook group</a>, and over 4,800 posts under the <a href="http://followgram.me/tag/crochetmoodblanket2014">#crochetmoodblanket2014 tag</a> on Instagram. I don't even know how many countries are represented, but I'm pretty sure it's a <b><i>lot</i></b>. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The project has grown and morphed, and is being interpreted in a number of ways. Personally, I think that's the beauty of this project; it's serving as a giant source of inspiration and the "rules" are loose! Some are doing one square a week (rather than each day), some have specified ahead of time what colors go with specific moods, some are journaling along to track their moods, some are doing a different square pattern each day, and so on! Several people are even <i>learning</i> to crochet via this project. Both the tag and the Facebook group have been inspiring me tremendously over the past week, and I hope that more and more people continue to join! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ljr38zMgHpc/Us4WGOsQ7hI/AAAAAAAADTk/a7J0diI6EgM/s1600/MonMakesThings_MoodBlanket1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ljr38zMgHpc/Us4WGOsQ7hI/AAAAAAAADTk/a7J0diI6EgM/s1600/MonMakesThings_MoodBlanket1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As for me, I'll share more specifics on my blanket soon, believe you me... But this post is about introducing you to the project, and the project's creator, Stacey! I asked Stacey about her personal experience with crochet, her inspiration for the project, and her plans for her own mood blanket. She was so nice to chat with me, and I love her emphasis on the community that has emerged from the project! Read her responses below, and seriously... Check out the groups!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Crochet Mood Blanket Creator: Stacey Wentford-Hall</b></div><b><span style="font-size: small;">1. How long have you been crocheting? How did you learn?</span></b><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><i><span style="font-size: small;">After being inspired by some blankets a friend of a friend made for my eldest daughter and by all the stunning creations I had seen through my Instagram feed, I first picked up a hook in April 2012. I have crocheted near enough every day since! I taught myself using YouTube videos! I also had help from some IG people!</span></i></blockquote><span style="font-size: small;"><b>2. What is your favorite type of crochet project? (blankets, amigurumi, accessories, etc.)</b></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><i><span style="font-size: small;">I wouldn’t say I favour one thing really. I love making blankets, but also love making quicker projects like cowls, doilies, jar covers and cup cosies. I find that I mostly make baby blankets, but that’s due to the fact a lot of my friends and family have had babies since I first learnt to crochet! I’m yet to complete a big blanket which is one of the reasons I set myself the challenge of making the crochet mood blanket! I’d really like to get into doing some more yarn bombing this year too!</span></i></blockquote><span style="font-size: small;"><b>3. Do you crochet just for fun, or do you sell your products?</b></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><i><span style="font-size: small;">At the moment I crochet for fun, but I am aiming to have a website up and running in the next month or so where I’ll be selling products and also patterns. So watch this space!</span></i></blockquote><span style="font-size: small;"><b>4. How did you come up with the idea for the "Crochet Mood Blanket" project?</b></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><i><span style="font-size: small;">I get a lot of inspiration from the internet for both photography and craft projects. I have always admired the 365 projects Georgia from <a href="http://www.documentingdelight.com/" target="_blank">www.documentingdelight.com</a> has done on her three gorgeous children and wanted to do the same. Sadly I have tried and failed to do so on numerous occasions. </span></i></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Whilst looking for inspiration on Instagram I came across the lovely @karensi1 who was doing a project with her friends over on a Facebook group called "For the Love of Yarnigans," where they were crocheting a scarf for 30 days and choosing a colour each day to reflect their mood. @karensi1 did hers differently by making hers a blanket. And so it all clicked into place!!! A 365 project where I crocheted my mood! That’s something I thought I could definitely achieve as I crochet every day anyway! We all have "For the Love of Yarnigans" to thank for this!</span></i></blockquote><span style="font-size: small;"><b>5. The project seems to have been interpreted in a number of ways, and is being approached with widely varying strategies. What is your personal "plan of attack?" (pattern choice, color chart for moods vs random color choices, solid squares vs multi-color, 365 vs 52, layout, journal keeping, etc.)</b></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Well I was originally just going to do the 365 project, but somehow I seem to be doing both! For the 365 I am making simple solid coloured granny squares which I’m joining as I go with a cream border. I have ten different colours and I’m just picking the colour I’m drawn to each day. For my 52, I’m doing stripes using various stitches, 16 colours and a chart! I’m using a diary to keep track of what I’m doing so that I can look back at it in years to come! </span></i></blockquote><span style="font-size: small;"><b>6. Now that the project has gone viral, has your vision for the project changed?</b></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><i><span style="font-size: small;">I had absolutely no idea that so many people would be joining me with this project! I think there must be 1,500+ people now taking part between Instagram & Facebook! I’m totally blown away by the response! </span></i></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><i><span style="font-size: small;">I wouldn’t say that my vision for my own project has changed that much. Though seeing everyone else’s projects has tempted me many many times to go for a fancier pattern. I’ve had to give myself a talking to as I simply don’t have the time to do more than what I already am. </span></i></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><i><span style="font-size: small;">What I wasn’t expecting to see was the amazing community the project has formed! It brings me great joy to see people who have never even picked up a hook having a go! And I’ve had people contact me saying that I have inspired them to start crocheting again! How touching is that! It’s just heart-warming to see people sharing what they have made, everyone supporting each other, sharing tips and just having a giggle! Long may it continue! </span></i></blockquote><span style="font-size: small;"><b>7. How will you personally be sharing your progress, and how do you hope participants share their own progress throughout the year?</b></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Now that the first week is in the bag, I will be posting on Instagram and Facebook once a week with a picture and info on each square. As soon as I have set up my website I will be doing the same on there and I’m aiming to do a little feature with what other people have been making in that week too!</span></i></blockquote><div style="text-align: center;">---------</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I can attest to the community. I check the Instagram tag and the Facebook group multiple times a day like a crazy person. There are <i>soooo</i> many fantastic granny square patterns, I want to make them all! I'll more about my own blanket very soon, but for now, this post is plenty long. ;) Link-up your own mood blanket posts below! I'm hoping to set up weekely or bi-weekly link-ups to share progress. What do <i>you</i> think of the project?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" class="nopin" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9vzkGV7_Qz8/UTQ1Ajz3kzI/AAAAAAAABys/wgDYKwMEGjw/s1600/____Signature.png" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>let's connect</i> ---> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/monmakesthings">facebook</a> // <a href="http://followgram.me/monmakesthings">instagram</a> // <a href="http://www.twitter.com/monshanx">twitter</a> // <a href="http://pinterest.com/monmakesthings/">pinterest</a> // <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/3792450/mon-makes-things">bloglovin</a> // <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/MonMakesThings">rss</a></div>Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-17437651473882525372014-01-07T14:48:00.000-05:002014-01-07T14:48:20.367-05:00New Year's Eve Bash<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I don't know about the weather where you are, but it is pretty miserable here in the mitten state. This "polar vortex" as they're calling it, has got me feeling like I've been transported to Antarctica... As I type this, the RealFeel temp is -19ºF. Yikes. My car is literally buried in snow... I'm at least half-afraid that it is never going to start again, hah.</div>
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So while I'm cozied under my warm blanket with skeins of yarn stacked up beside me, I thought I'd share some photos from the New Year's party boyfriend and I threw this year. The lighting wasn't great of course, but that's the nature of nighttime photos. </div>
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Scott and I had been debating between going out and staying in for NYE this year, when a few friends started asking me about our plans. I realized that thanks to Christmas, I happened to have several of my oldest friends in town all at once -- a rare opportunity that I couldn't <i style="font-weight: bold;">not</i> take advantage of. As we've all gotten older, most of them seem to have moved across the country, which is great for vacation planning, but sucky for party throwing. ;) So with mere days to spare, I decided to throw what I dubbed the "last-minute, low-key, super-chill NYE party." </div>
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I believe we wound up with about 10 guests, give or take. We spent most of the evening playing Cards Against Humanity -- have you ever played? It's like the dirty, politically-incorrect version of Apples to Apples, and it is HILARIOUS. None of us had ever played before, which actually made it pretty fun. I won, in case you were curious. It's all about knowing your audience! ;) </div>
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I whipped up a few glittery NYE decorations at a slumber party with my old college roommates the night before the party, and otherwise just left my Christmas decor out. My <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2012/12/day-05-diy-palette-christmas-tree.html">pallet tree</a>, <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2013/04/star-light-star-bright-light-garland.html">star light garland</a>, and a strand of twinkle lights wrapped around the breakfast bar served as our "mood lighting." I put out cheese and crackers, pineapple and grapes, Christmas cookies and treats, chips and dip, and pretzels, along with the stash of liquor that's been hanging out in our freezer for months. I also made a quick punch with cranberry juice, ginger ale, pink lemonade, and pineapple rum -- yum! </div>
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I snagged some adorable (and delicious!) mini cupcakes from a local bakery, and made these quick cupcake toppers! I'll post tutorials for those glittery garlands and star toppers soon, promise. They're crazy easy, which is perfect for party decor since I <i>never</i> have time to decorate for such things. </div>
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How is the new year treating you so far? So far, so cold for me... </div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-38387066889542105042014-01-02T12:51:00.000-05:002014-01-02T12:51:58.709-05:00Happy Holidays, Readers!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Phew! A lot has happened since I posted last, readers. I GRADUATED COLLEGE!! That first photo is my face before my final college class, in which I gave my final college presentation (which I nailed). My prof even bought our class pizza -- best way to finish school? I think so. </div>
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Then there were all the Christmas events... New Year's Eve... New Year's Day... People always talk about how busy December is, but every year I think I'll have plenty of time to get everything done. I doubt that this will surprise you, but I always want to DIY all my gifts. The only trouble is that I rarely begin production on those gifts sooner than two weeks before Christmas. Oops. Actually, I'm still making Christmas gifts today, hah. </div>
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I'm sad to see Christmas go. Finals and the flu really distracted me from a lot of the holiday revelry this year. Christmas is so magical. The snow, the lights, and the general feeling of hope that take over all make my heart happy. Perhaps most important for me, however, is the exchanging of gifts. I know, I know... Maybe you think that sounds materialistic or superficial, but I assure you that is not what I mean. I am a far better giver than I am a receiver. I <i>love</i> the opportunity to show the people I love how much I care about them (in the form of a well-thought out, meaningful gift). Seeing their faces light up when they unwrap a carefully packaged gift gives me such joy. </div>
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Now it's the new year: 2014. A time for resolutions and changes and making plans. Truth be told, I rarely get too into the "resolutions" thing. But I am big on making lists... So in the past I have made silly lists to complete in the calendar year. Perhaps I'll list out some goals this month. </div>
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What is your favorite part of the holiday season? Have you made any resolutions?</div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-51710842705141192822013-12-16T09:00:00.000-05:002013-12-16T09:00:10.367-05:00Felted Gift Tags<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p9llosxV58s/Uo1N6A3HiBI/AAAAAAAADN8/B09PabJo6ww/s1600/FeltedGiftTags15_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p9llosxV58s/Uo1N6A3HiBI/AAAAAAAADN8/B09PabJo6ww/s1600/FeltedGiftTags15_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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I freaking love Christmas. Probably because I freaking love giving people presents. I love giving people presents for no reason, so to have a holiday on which I can give out all kinds of gifts to the people I care about? Freaking love it, y'all! </div>
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In the last couple years, I have been getting more and more into making my presents look extra pretty. It's harder than I expected though, I can't lie. But when <a href="http://www.createforless.com/">Create for Less</a> sent me some wool roving and a needle felting kit, I knew it'd be fun to whip up some felted gift tags for the <a href="http://thinkcrafts.com/">Think Crafts</a> blog. <b>What do you think?</b></div>
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Check out the full tutorial and more pictures <a href="http://thinkcrafts.com/blog/2013/11/21/felted-gift-tags/">here</a>, and leave some love from Mon Makes Things! </div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-79325616590229570432013-12-09T12:46:00.000-05:002013-12-09T12:46:30.595-05:00Holiday DIYs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last year, I was pretty new to this blogging game (and really, I still consider myself a novice). I ambitiously dreamed up 25 relatively quick holiday projects that I hoped to finish, but between finals and everything else, I only ended up posting a few. Here are four projects I posted last year, if you're looking to do some of your own holiday crafting this week! Can you tell I was on a felt kick? ;) </div>
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<b>1.</b> <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2012/12/day-04-felt-christmas-tree-ornament.html">Felt Christmas Tree Ornament</a> // <b>2.</b> <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2012/12/day-02-diy-snowflake-garland.html">Felt Sticker Snowflake Garland</a> </div>
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<b>3.</b> <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2012/12/day-03-glittery-cards-and-gift-tags.html">Glitter Tape Gift Tags & Cards</a> // <b>4.</b> <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2012/11/day-01-christmas-tree-card-diy.html">Felt and Cork Christmas Tree Card</a></div>
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My family has never been the timley-est when it comes to decorating for Christmas, so I am really just getting started on my little apartment. My mom, my brother and I always hunt down a real tree at a tree farm, and over the years it has become tradition to go <i>right before Christmas...</i> I think the latest we ever got a tree was December 23rd... This year we have the 22nd set as our tree hunting date, ha! BUT, then my mom leaves her tree up for <i>weeks</i> after Christmas. We have watched the Superbowl with the Christmas tree up. It's like the opposite of all you who decorate on (or before!) Thanksgiving. </div>
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All that said, my later-than-usual habits of decorating and DIYing for Christmas makes blogging about it pretty tough, especially with these super short winter days! By the time I get home from work, it's way to dark to take photos! I tell ya, more goes into blogging than you'd think. </div>
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Have you been crafting for the holidays? What have you been making? </div>
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Also, do you have any tips on how to make your holiday decor cohesive? I struggle with decor... Choosing color palettes and all of that... Making everything go together is stressful! </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Happy crafting, friends! :)</i></span></b></div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-26931108798982331802013-11-27T11:39:00.002-05:002013-11-27T11:39:41.593-05:00Crochet Baby Booties<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7YYh4PPNWpM/UnL_n1z9PYI/AAAAAAAADH4/uz0LmqKov2c/s1600/BabyBooties05_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7YYh4PPNWpM/UnL_n1z9PYI/AAAAAAAADH4/uz0LmqKov2c/s1600/BabyBooties05_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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When I made <a href="http://www.monmakesthings.com/2013/10/baby-shower-photo-board.html">this fab photo display board</a> for the friend of a friend's baby shower, I wound up invited to said shower. I couldn't attend without a gift, right? So I whipped up these baby booties real quick the night before. I found the pattern on <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/">Ravelry</a> and altered it slightly... Side note: If you crochet/knit and aren't on Ravelry, you are missing out. If you <i>are </i>on Ravelry, let's be friends! (My username is monmakesthings.)</div>
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Check out more how I made these and more photos over <a href="http://thinkcrafts.com/blog/2013/11/17/crochet-baby-booties/">here on ThinkCrafts</a>, and leave a comment from Mon Makes Things!</div>
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Anybody else panicking about Thanksgiving? Because it's jussssstttt hitting me that I have to cook a big ol' holiday meal for tomorrow. Oops. ;) </div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-707081004492130222013-11-15T15:30:00.001-05:002013-11-15T15:30:39.825-05:00Gilded Mason Vases<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ozuEHcx2w-Y/UnLQmZ4Z-OI/AAAAAAAADHU/8GMVd2GlwjM/s1600/GildedMasonVases09_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ozuEHcx2w-Y/UnLQmZ4Z-OI/AAAAAAAADHU/8GMVd2GlwjM/s1600/GildedMasonVases09_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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Are mason jars still trendy? I hope so, because I am still a fan. I've seen so many mason jar vases on Pinterest these last few years... Something about their rustic elegance, I guess. So when <a href="http://www.createforless.com/">CreateForLess</a> asked me to try out some glass paints and the new Ball Transform Mason line, I knew I wanted to make some pretty vases of my own. </div>
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I have never arranged flowers before. Like, ever. But since I have been having repeated emotional breakdowns in my last semester of school, boyfriend unexpectedly bought me a pretty bouquet of pink roses one day, and I quickly took it apart for these gilded jars. I have never considered myself a "girly-girl," but man-oh-man do I squeal over flowers from a boy. Who's with me? ;) </div>
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Check out my full tutorial over on <a href="http://thinkcrafts.com/blog/2013/11/13/guilded-mason-vases/">ThinkCrafts</a> and leave some love. They're SUPER easy, I promise... And who doesn't love an easy DIY? No seriously, who doesn't?!</div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-87030224421918278632013-11-06T09:00:00.000-05:002013-11-06T09:00:06.680-05:00Holiday Crafting // Crochet Ornaments<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It is officially November, which means Christmas will be here before we know it. Any fellow holiday crafters out there know that means it's time to start making holiday gifts. Or maybe you started months ago, over achievers... I wanted to share some handmade holiday ornaments in my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/shanxstudios?ref=si_shop">Etsy shop</a> right now! Along with these original ornaments, there are two original patterns available for purchase as well! </div>
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We (my mom and I) started offering custom cat ornaments last year, made to look like your kitties (or however you want)! They are sooo cute; my mom is a crochet genius. I learned everything I know from her. She has been selling these teddy bear ornaments since long before I was born! </div>
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We also love custom order requests, so if you've got an idea, shoot it our way! We've done a custom mouse, a rocking horse, custom colors, team bears, and more. I'm pretty sure my mom likes making new things more than making more of the old.</div>
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These two ornament patterns, Santa and the penguin, are available in our shop, so you can make your own! They are admittedly pretty involved patterns, and if you're not used to working with thread it will take some getting used to. But I am confident that you can do it, friends! There are step-by-step photos and we encourage you to email with any questions.</div>
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Check out the shop, and share with friends! These ornaments make great gifts, and there's just something about handmade products, am I right? Of course, maybe I'm biased. ;) </div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-677278915146348768.post-85334430843787248612013-10-31T08:00:00.000-04:002013-10-31T08:00:05.934-04:00Dia de los Muertos // Halloween Makeup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I know I <i>just posted</i> about how I don't dig super creepy Halloween decor, but truth be told, I have always liked dressing up as something on the scary side when it comes to my costume. When I was 6 or 7, I was the coolest vampire you've ever seen. My mom hunted down this slinky blue sequin evening gown at a thrift store for me, teased my hair all big and crazy, and painted my face sooo intensely. I still think that was my coolest costume to date. </div>
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Now that I'm <i>basically </i>an adult (though I'm obviously still in denial), I have a new theory about Halloween. I figure, if I'm going to spend a bunch of money on a costume of some kind, I'm going to want to wear it again. So now I just try to come up with a costume that gives me an excuse to buy a pretty dress! I have also been smitten with the dia de los muertos (day of the dead) skeleton costumes since last Halloween, so my getup was a pretty easy choice this year.</div>
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Boyfriend was scary zipper face (ahh!), and the photos of him were taken after the bar party we went to, so his "blood" is a little smeared. Maybe I'm silly, but I like that mirror pic with the giant flash, haha. Sometimes I like a good lens flare. </div>
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I found <a href="http://www.bespoke-bride.com/2013/10/22/beauty-diy-how-to-do-day-of-the-dead-dia-de-los-muertos-makeup-plus-our-first-ever-youtube-video/">this tutorial</a> on CraftGawker, and read through it a few days before attempting my makeup. Day of, I just sort of winged it, and had limited time to get ready. </div>
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I used white grease makeup as the base, and just some advice, using a sponge took forever and looked crappy. Once I started using my fingers for the white, my life got a whole lot easier. I used two shades of purple eye shadow for the eyes and to fill in the little flower on my chin. I did my nose with black eye shadow, and used black liner to draw the designs. I was disappointed that the liner didn't turn out that black, but it didn't really matter in the end. I used a crappy old shadow brush for the eye shadow, and it worked a lot better than a shadow sponge applicator.</div>
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I snagged the gems and the black pearls from the scrapbook section at Michaels, and stuck them on with eyelash glue. I also added some intense false lashes, if you couldn't tell. ;) </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fminjuZ1VyA/UnGWTzIgxQI/AAAAAAAADF0/clve66kZYF0/s1600/DiaDeLosMuertos08_MonMakesThings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fminjuZ1VyA/UnGWTzIgxQI/AAAAAAAADF0/clve66kZYF0/s1600/DiaDeLosMuertos08_MonMakesThings.jpg" /></a></div>
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For my floral headress is a DIY I whipped up real quick. I bought some faux flowers from Michael's, cut the stems off, and hot glued them to an old plastic headband. I teased my hair and pinned it up in two messy buns before adding the headband, not that you can tell. I got my dress from JC Penney, and I loooove it! My first peplum... I'm a fan. :) </div>
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What are you dressing up as for Halloween? What do you think about my makeup? I think it was a bit too scary for my grandma... Her response was: "Oh! But Monica... You're such a pretty girl..." Ha! </div>
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Monica // mon makes thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09045109055707753994noreply@blogger.com2