I like Big Bears and I cannot lie

In the Summer(what we had of it) I wrote this post on a wonderful shop in the Lake District called Temporary Measure, as it says in that post I had my eye on the When I was Bear book for Lucas' birthday.  I did indeed order the book, and he loves it like I thought it was (although not as much as Fireman Sam but that's 4 year olds for you). I also purchased the pattern for the Big Bear and the Rabbit too.

I hope to have these both in my children's stocking for Christmas. 

 Sorry for the appalling photography, the light is awful here at the moment.  It's been lovely to get crafting again, I feel as if all my inspiration and creativity as been sucked from me of late. It's nice to just concentrate on the click clacking of the needles and see a project grow.  I'm not normally a knitter but a crocheter, however I've enjoyed the challenge of actually sticking to a pattern. 

 I'm using size 6 needles and Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Chunky (Aran), I don't normally use this yarn as it's quite highly priced(about £4-£5 depending on where you buy from) but I found a bag of 6 and half balls in a charity shop for £4 and who could resist that. I didn't know what I'd use the yarn for at the time, but as soon as I got this pattern I knew it was perfect to become A Very Big Bear.

So far I've completed the head, ears, both legs and the body.  I think with the size needles I'm using and my tension it will knit up bigger than the largest size on the pattern, the head easily fits over my very chunky hands.  I'm hoping to finish the arms tonight and then get on with the stuffing. 

I think he'll be a very big bear indeed, just perfect for big boy cuddles.

Are you making something for your loved ones this Christmas?

Amanda.x.

Quietly Starting to Make Again

Although my crafting mojo seems to have fled of late, I have started quietly crafting away working through new products and testing crochet patterns.

 Collars are an accessory I love but really aren't sure if they match my fashion style (what style?) so I thought I'd try a couple of variations.  

This is my frilly collar based on designs I'd seen in old 1940's pictures. 

 This is my big collar, I thought I'd try it with a big bow instead of the button but I'm not sure if the ribbon works and how well it will stay tied.  

I'm going to pass this collar onto the lovely SallyTangle for testing. 

I really enjoy making these and hope to have them in my shop soon, but I'd be interested in your opinions.

Would you wear these, buy these, be interested in different colours etc?

Inquiring minds would like to know.

Amanda.x.