Bumblebirch Designs

Chai Hot Chocolate

2011-10-03T03:00:00.000-07:00

Autumn has officially hit Portland, and I'm ready for the cooler weather! On a rainy afternoon like this I love to sip a cup of hot chocolate while I knit on my latest project and work on the computer. Not just any hot chocolate, mind you, but a spicy chai hot chocolate. Here's the recipe:

Chai Hot Chocolate
makes 1 8oz mug
1 cup milk (soymilk, almondmilk, whole milk, it's your choice)
1 1/2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 Tbsp sugar or honey
1/4 tsp Chai Spice Blend (recipe follows)

1. Gently warm the milk in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the sweetener, cocoa powder, and chai spice blend and whisk until all lumps of chocolate disappear.
3. Pour into your favorite mug and enjoy! (and maybe throw a marshmallow on top if you have some.)

Chai Spice Blend
using powdered spices (adjust to your own taste)

2 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp ground cloves
2 tsp ground cardamom
3 tsp ground ginger

1. Mix all spices well and store in an airtight container. Done!

Here's a peek at my latest project. I've come to the conclusion that my toddler has Yeti feet. These socks nearly fit me! Stay warm, friends.

New Fall Collections Out

2011-09-21T15:07:00.000-07:00

Fall patterns have arrived! That's right, both Knitty Deep Fall 2011 AND Brooklyn Tweed Fall 11 are out!

Knitty First Fall 2011

2011-08-10T10:47:00.000-07:00

Knitty's First Fall 2011 collection has been live for a couple of weeks now and my, oh, my! what beautiful patterns! Who doesn't love cozy knits in fall?

I am in love with this sweet little lace cowl by Ashley Knowlton. I'm not such a fan of wearing pink myself, though, so I was thinking it would look lovely in a more subtle, warm color like Goldberry:

What do you think?

Sock Summit Report

2011-08-01T06:30:00.000-07:00

Well I guess I was too busy enjoying myself to take many pictures, but here's a little peek at the second annual Sock Summit here in Portland. In my defense, I did have my hands full of wiggly baby the whole time, so wielding the camera was not really on my mind.

Here's a corner of the marketplace. I wonder why the baby was more interested in my keys than yarn? Must work on that. Most days Baby M and I visited the marketplace, crawled around, fondled yarn, and connected with friends. On Friday I attended Tina Newton's lecture. What a delight! My friend watched the baby so I could sit and knit and listen without distraction. The most memorable moment came when Baby M decided to start walking on his own!

On Sunday we were able to catch the Fleece-to-Foot contest. They sheared the sheep, carded the wool, spun it, then knit it into socks...in a matter of hours. Well done, ladies!

Keep spinning! More coffee!

The Fastest Knitter Competition, moments before comparing 106 stitches to 103 in 3 minutes. I definitely can't knit that fast!

Ok, men, can we please go get some yarn now?

Sock Summit 2011

2011-07-29T12:11:00.000-07:00

This weekend is Sock Summit!

Knitters from near and far will converge on Portland to see yarn dyers, spinners and sellers at their booths. There will be boxes and boxes of beautiful yarn as well as classes and lectures from favorite designers at the Oregon Convention Center. Yarn shops all over town will be bustling with excitement!

Bumblebirch yarn is a featured local dyer at Urban Fiber Arts this week - we hope to see you there!

DIY Recycled Yarn

2011-07-20T09:25:00.000-07:00

I love recycling and creative reuse of materials. This tutorial from Craft Passion on how to make yarn out of old t-shirts is simply sweet!

How to make T-shirt Yarn

Featured Yarn

2011-06-24T03:00:00.000-07:00

Bumblebirch is ready for summer! Some of the current yarn offerings feature cool blue, purple and sandy pink. A variety of yarn weights are available including Grove (Superwash Merino/Bamboo blend), Blossom (Merino/Suri Alpaca blend) and Heartwood (Merino/Nylon blend). But that's not all - check out the Etsy shop for other fine Bumblebirch colorways and stitch markers!

Bumblebirch Grove in Lilac colorway.

Bumblebirch Blossom in Dune colorway.

Bumblebirch Heartwood in Coastline colorway.

Fifty Percent Chance of Cupcake

2011-06-22T19:27:00.000-07:00

While thinking about cupcakes, like one does, I pondered my current state in which I do not have one. Frown.

From darling cherie and pieceofcupcake

From artgoodies and kaching design

Button Flair

2011-06-17T09:41:00.000-07:00

From head to toe, these small fashion fasteners are sure to make a project stand out. You can put a button and a smile on just about anything!

From HeathersHobbies and Arzumusa

From Tombjorn and Laurathreadz

Work In Progress: Horcrux Socks

2011-06-14T03:00:00.000-07:00

I've had socks on my mind lately as Sock Summit 2011 is fast approaching, but of course knitted socks are great any time. This pair is Horcrux Socks (Ravelry link), knit using Artisan Sock Yarn in the Purple Hazel colorway from HazelKnits, which is based in Seattle.

I actually purchased this lovely colorway at the first Sock Summit in 2009. It took a while to find just the right pattern for the deep purples and greens. As you can see, I've just got the toe of one sock left to graft.

Urban Fiber Arts in Portland

2011-06-13T08:43:00.000-07:00

Located in the Pearl District of downtown Portland, Urban Fiber Arts is one of the newest knitting shops in town and a must-see for visitors and locals alike. The cozy fireside knitting area with a simple gray and red color palette is quite lovely. Beyond are the rows and rows of fantastic yarn! The storefront is nestled into the stylish Gregory Lofts on NW 11th Avenue, only steps from a Portland Streetcar stop, which I think adds to the charm and welcoming atmosphere.

To set this downtown knitting shop apart from others, friendly owner Cindy Abernethy stocks Urban Fiber Arts with the work of independent Northwest fiber artists and maintains a fine selection of spinning fibers.

Speaking of local dyers, I'm excited to mention that a shipment of Bumblebirch Cocoon was recently delivered!

Coffee In A Cup

2011-06-11T03:00:00.000-07:00

Some say love makes the world go 'round, but it might just be the coffee. This week's inspiration is highly caffeinated and very cute.

From LaceyBugCreations and sewZinski

From QuietStreet and annerstreet

Work In Progress: Baby Tunic

2011-06-08T03:00:00.000-07:00

I've been knitting this cute little tunic for a friend's baby with Heartwood (75% superwash merino/25% nylon) in the Hydrangea colorway. The pattern is Little Sister's Dress, and is super quick and simple! Tora Frøseth is a Norwegian designer with a collection of unique designs just popping with texture. This little dress just needs a wee button and will be done!

Like Bumblebirch on Facebook

2011-06-07T03:00:00.000-07:00

You can now follow Bumblebirch on Facebook! Please do.

Baby Bumblebirch

2011-06-06T03:00:00.000-07:00

Bumblebirch Designs has taken on a new employee, though he's a little short on experience. Quite mischievous, he can't understand why such great yarn need be out of reach. Why not bring some of that fine fiber down here and we'll see how long it is? Or see how it tastes? Maybe the kitty wants to play with it too?

He loves the outdoors, just like Mommy, and thinks the swings at the park are great. We hike up the hill to Washington Park (I walk, he rides comfortably in the ERGO baby carrier) and there in the first clearing, between the mossy willows and some rather tall sequoias, I enjoy a few moments of quiet bliss as my little swinger smiles.

Sunny Days

2011-06-03T03:00:00.000-07:00

What's better than a sunny day? Nothing that I know of, unless that sunny day finds you knitting in its warm rays. Along with the sunny day comes singing birds, fragrant flowers, and smiling faces. I hope it's sunny where you are!

From thePaintedSky

From cottonpurr

From laurageorge

Work In Progress: Vanilla

2011-06-01T03:00:00.000-07:00

Baby Bumblebirch is now nine months old and is growing and growing! We use cloth prefold diapers and Nikky diaper covers - but sometimes it's fun to dress him in something different. This pattern is Vanilla by Kelly Brooker which I'm knitting with Cascade 220 Wool.

Memorial Day Greetings

2011-05-30T03:00:00.000-07:00

On our weekend to honor those who serve and protect the United States of America, I want to say, thank you, brave soldiers! Let's see some red, white, blue:

From minusOne

From Hydra Heart

From reiter8

Happy Memorial Day!

Bumblebirch is at Urban Fiber Arts!

2011-05-23T03:00:00.000-07:00

Bumblebirch yarn can now be found at Urban Fiber Arts in the Pearl District!

There are many fine knitting shops in Portland, but this one in particular sells Bumblebirch yarn. Specializing in local independent Northwest dyers and spinners, Urban Fiber Arts is located on the southbound Portland Streetcar line and just around the corner from a Number 17 Bus stop. It has an excellent selection of patterns and unique yarns, host classes and the local spinnerati (spinning group), and the owner Cindy is an all-around fun lady. Be sure to check it out!

Bumblebirch supports public transportation! You can't (shouldn't) knit while you're driving on the freeway, but you can purl on the bus...So hop on the streetcar or MAX or bus and check out Urban Fiber Arts in the Pearl.

Bumblebirch is Back

2011-05-21T12:29:00.000-07:00

The sun is shining brightly.
The birds are singing boldly.
The trees shake their verdant leaves,
As the curious squirrels stop and see.
It's a beautiful day we believe,
For the yarn is dyeing color again.

My Baby Sabbatical is over and I've returned to the studio. This year I'm joined by my wonderful husband, Paul, who helps behind the scenes and makes sure I keep my head together.

Are you ready for some fantastic new yarn? New yarn will be available soon on Etsy.

Bumblebirch on Vacation

2010-09-06T10:14:00.000-07:00

The studio has been temporarily taken over by a new addition to the family!

Bumblebirch is on vacation until we all get adjusted. See you soon!

Looking Forward

2010-08-06T17:27:00.000-07:00

Being very, very pregnant has given me a keen appreciation for the sweet fashions that I haven't been able to wear since, oh, March. Here are a few finds from independent designers that I'd love to be wearing right now.

1. El Mariachi Pencil Skirt by PoorJean
2. Romantic Wrap Top by Lirola
3. Bertha top by Alis
4. Beatrix Pump by mykashoes
5. Grey Velveteen Ruffle Front Skirt by LoveToLoveYou
6. Pink Voile Knee Length Robe by leisastanton
7. Hazel Coat by LittleHouses
8. Beige Ruffles Dress by MyLolaFashion
9. Equinox Flat by HydraHeart

Summer Yarn

2010-07-30T08:40:00.000-07:00

Some of these colorways are already in the shop, but isn't it exciting to see some new ones?

Rght there in the middle is my lovely, silky lace, Bumblebirch Cocoon. It's 80% merino/20% silk. On the left is Mountain Spring, a light, dusty turquoise, and on the right is something new. I departed from the usual purples and ventured into mulberry and blackberry shades. What do you think?

Happy Canada Day!

2010-07-01T11:20:00.000-07:00

I'm not Canadian, though I heard a rumor from my mom that I have Canadian blood through my grandpa's side of the family. Either way, I love our Northern neighbors! Here are a few Canadian creatives that caught my eye this week.

From beadsss

From Brinner

From EvaldasNeverland

From ParadiseHillDesigns

From bonspielcreation

From sugarloafshop

Happy Canada Day, everyone!

Crafty Weekend

2010-06-17T10:35:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of local activities going on this week leading into the weekend!

Hello Craft's Summit of Awesome is going on now right here in Portland. The Summit closes its lineup of workshops with a Day of Craft and party. Crafty activities will continue into the weekend with the Show of Awesome at Doug Fir Lounge (Crafty Wonderland, one of the sponsors, used to host monthly craft shows here).

Friday through Sunday is Oregon's Black Sheep Gathering, and annual fiber fest, featuring a livestock and wool show, contests, workshops, and a trade show. You can find Bumblebirch stitch markers at the Kathee Nelson Art Yarn booth. Kathee's a fellow local independent dyer and has the loveliest silk yarn. If you're heading out to Eugene, be sure to stop by her booth!

Saturday is the famous WWKIP Day (that's World Wide Knit in Public Day). You won't be able to avoid seeing knitters walking around with their projects on display in cities all over the world! Many of them will participate in photo scavenger hunts, such as the one organized by Sock Knitters Anonymous, a Ravelry group.

Bumblebirch has a bit of crafty going on in the studio this week...a new colorway is in the works. Check in again soon for a sneak preview!

Two Basic Cast On Methods, Remedied

2010-06-08T07:47:00.000-07:00

When I first started knitting, I used to panic about what kind of cast on method to use. Now I don't panic, but I have developed preferences and experience. Until recently, I would avoid 2 particular cast on methods: the backwards loop cast on, and the long-tail cast on.

The backward loop is called the "beginner" cast on because it's so simple, and when I first started knitting everyone told me to use this method. My problem was that by the time I knitted to the end of the first row, there was huge gap of slack between stitches at the first cast on stitch (the slipknot). So I cast on one more stitch than needed, then drop the skipknot at the end. Problem solved!

My problem with the long-tail cast on is that I either overestimate the tail length and waste too much yarn, or I underestimate and have to start the whole cast on edge over again (usually multiple times). But there's a solution to this!

I was catching up on some knitting podcasts and heard about a brilliant way to fix this problem: use both ends of the ball of yarn. I haven't found a video demonstrating this, or even much discussion online, so here's the basic theory:

1. Hold both ends as one and make a slip knot. This will be the first 2 stitches of your cast on edge.

2. Position the yarn as you normally would for long-tail cast on, with one strand around the thumb and one around the index finger. You'll want to decide whether you'll knit your item from the "inside" or "outside" yarn and put that strand around the index finger.

3. Cast on infinite stitches!

4. Snip the other strand, leaving a tail long enough to weave in.

At least I don't have to avoid these cast-on methods anymore!

Sew Good to Me

2010-06-04T10:56:00.000-07:00

I've been on a sewing kick lately. I can't stop churning out bags and tea wallets and blankets and more. Here are a few inspiring finds from etsyland:

1. Modern Quilt by quiltedbykaren
2. Hanging Fabric Storage Bin by sewingmomma
3. Handbag/Wristlet by honeyddesigns
4. SnackSleeve by agreensleeve
5. Organic cotton deer mob napkins by ohlittlerabbit
6. Round and Round Pillow Cover by kanom
7. Recycled Sail Throw Pillow by reiter8
8. Linen Patchwork Coffee Press Cozy by SometimesCrafter
9. Modern Baby Quilt by BlueElephantStitch

Works in Progress

2010-05-13T14:33:00.000-07:00

Aside from the usual distraction, there really has been quite a lot of work going on in the Bumblebirch studio.

The Summer line of stitch markers is ready! All 8 new colors of Droplets and Petite Droplets will be listed in the shop soon!

In addition to new stitch markers, I'm pleased to announce a new colorway:

Peony

This colorway is inspired by the flowers we had at our wedding: cream and blush pink. It's just in time to celebrate our 2nd anniversary on May 25th! Peony is available in any of the Bumblebirch bases.

Me with my bridesmaid and bouquet-maker Caela

Happy May, everyone!

Sewn Bind Off

2010-04-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I haven't used this stretchy bind off before! I've knit so many projects which would benefit from the sewn bind off, so I'll have to make it my standard sock bind off from now on.

Rainy Days

2010-04-09T07:12:00.000-07:00

I don't know about your city, but it's been rainy around here!

1. Miniature Raindrop by ashleyg
2. Bloom and Grow Archival Print by swallowfield
3. Rain Bear Print by daphnecellophane
4. Ca Va Screen Printed Card by twoguitars
5. Feeding Birds Print by matteart
6. Umbrella Charm Necklace by PetitSimplicity
7. Friends Fine Art Print by michelemaule
8. PDX Raindrop Magnet by bishopart
9. Silver Cloud Ear Posts by FreshyFig

Friday Finds....Office Organization

2010-03-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

Bumblebirch was recently uprooted to a new home--a better, drier, warmer, safer home--and getting my office space reorganized has been a challenge! Here's a little inspiration:

1. Bohemian Poppies Fabric Bins by sewingmomma
2. Divine Aluminum GoodForm Chair by threesidewaysglances
3. Honeycomb Modern Wall Clock by pilotdesign
4. Mushroom Madness Paperclips/Bookmarkers by yvettelim
5. Distressed Grey Hex Shelf by JungleSupply
6. Vinyl Wall Sticker Decal - Wall Calendar by SimpleShapes
7. writing desk by uncommon
8. birch trees book file by babaleu
9. Custom Definition Magnets by ksickles

Spring Cleaning Sale

2010-03-18T07:13:00.000-07:00

As you know, I'm a member of an Etsy Team called the OWLs, a diverse group of artists, artisans, and crafters who come together for mutual business support and skill growth. Our team is holding a Spring Cleaning Sale to celebrate the onset of Spring, and you can score some great deals in a bunch of shops! Visit the OWLs blog to see all the participating shops and their deals.

Bumblebirch will be offering 10% off all stitch markers, and 15% off all yarn. I'll also be offering early subscriptions to the Yarn + Tea Club for April & May. It's time to clean out the shop!

March Yarn Club Sneak Peek

2010-03-15T12:00:00.000-07:00

Lucky Yarn Club and Yarn + Tea Club members, here's a teaser for you!

Celebrating Spring

2010-03-12T08:08:00.000-08:00

1. Forsythia Twig Wreath by Stylishstems
2. Duo / Hanging Bird Feeder by joepapendick
3. Vinyl Wall Art decal sticker Fall Tree by WowWall
4. The Secret Garden Moss Terrarium Globe by Doodle Bird Designs
5. Organic Strawflower Helichrysum Seeds by Rathburn-Smith Farms
6. Handpainted Bird Pot by SchwidleShop
7. Lavender Sachets by The Lavender Road
8. Bird seed scoop by Girl With a Gourd
9. Hand-printed Classic White Cotton Napkins by Indo Bay Textiles

I love these sunny spring finds!

Spring Non-Sock Patterns for Sock Yarn

2010-02-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

Fingering weight yarn is usually called sock yarn even though that's not its only use, and that certainly isn't the only weight of yarn suitable for knitting socks. Somehow when sock-knitting fever started spreading, it became more popular to call fingering weight yarn sock yarn so that potential sock knitters could find it more easily. Now, I love knitting socks, but I'm a little tired of them now that Spring in here. Time for other uses! Here are some of my current favorites for Spring:

Little Sister's Dress by Tora Froseth
Ravelry Link :: Website Link
I've actually got this one on the needles at the moment, in a lovely Bumblebirch colorway called "Hydrangea." It's a gift for my godsister's new baby girl.

Sartje's Booties by Saartje de Bruijn
Ravelry Link :: Website Link
Ok, I admit I totally have baby on the brain. I'm 3 1/2 months along myself. Can you blame me? I mean, look at these wee booties! For wee baby feet! And those wee buttons? It's killing me!

Brandywine Shawl by Rosemary Hill
Ravelry Link :: Website Link
This shawl is sweet and simple, with a touch of femininity. The designer is donating $5 of each pattern sale to Doctors without Borders for their work in Haiti.

Myrtle Cardigan by Snowden Becker
Ravelry Link :: Website Link
Who doesn't love a beautiful lace cardigan? It's perfect for layering.

Endpaper Mitts by Eunny Jang
Ravelry Link :: Website link
These are such stunning little mitts! Perfect for not-quite-cold/not-quite-warm weather. I consider fingerless mitts to be a staple of the layering wardrobe, and with endless color combinations these be the perfect Spring or Fall accessory.

Haruni by Emily Ross
Ravelry Link
Another beautiful lace pattern suitable for fingering weight yarn. This one is so feminine and pretty, it's on my queue!

Doughnut by Dorien
Ravelry Link :: Website Link
Breakfast time!

Spring Tea

2010-02-19T16:18:00.000-08:00

Spring is here in Portland! It's definitely early, but no one's complaining.

That means it's time for the Spring Yarn Clubs! Mmm, teatime...mmmm yarn!

You can join the Bumblebirch Spring Yarn Club or Yarn + Tea Club here!

Under Construction

2010-02-18T08:10:00.001-08:00

Make sure you've got your hard hat on! The blog is undergoing some changes, so stay tuned!

Introducing Bumblebirch Grove Sock Yarn

2009-12-11T09:31:00.000-08:00

Grove is 80% superwash merino/20% bamboo, 4-ply fingering weight, presented in skeins of 430yd/393m, which makes it perfect for socks or shawls! Bamboo is known for its strength and silky texture, and merino is the softest wool around. Add easy-care superwash into the mix and you've got a perfect yarn! Now available in the shop!

Sunkissed Sock Yarn Drawing Winner!

2009-12-05T12:41:00.000-08:00

And the winner is...

Dragonsinger!!

You lucky duck! Or rather, lucky dragon. You get yummy yellow sock yarn. Happy stitching!

Please send your shipping info to bumblebirch AT gmail DOT com.

December Yarn Club Teaser

2009-12-04T15:33:00.000-08:00

Just a sneak peek!

A Contest!

2009-12-01T07:31:00.000-08:00

This blog can get awfully quiet, and I want to step it up. I'm challenging YOU to participate! Just leave a comment on this post telling me what you love to do with sock yarn and you'll be entered into a random drawing on Saturday morning.

The prize is a skein of Bumblebirch Heartwood in Sunkissed! It's 100g/3.5 oz (463yd/423m) of 4-ply fingering weight in 75% superwash merino/25% nylon. Sunkissed is a lovely golden yellow gradient color. I'll even wind it up for you!

I'll start: My favorite thing to with sock yarn is knit lace socks!

Gratitude

2009-11-26T08:44:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful for so many things in my life, and YOU are one of them! The creative process of dyeing yarn, making stitch markers and crafting stationary is possible only because of loyal customers who purchase these items. It's something to be cherished and nurtured, and I want to say THANK YOU!

On Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday, I'll be including a free small gift with any purchase from Bumblebirch. I've got unique stitch markers for knitters, handmade envelopes, and gift tags all bundled up and ready to tag along with your new purchase. See you after the turkey!

New Colorways

2009-11-24T08:24:00.000-08:00

I'm very pleased to announce a few new colorways for the shop, all in 100% superwash merino fingering weight.

Pear

Celery

Autumn Leaf

Black Friday Bonanza!

2009-11-22T08:08:00.000-08:00

The wonderful Etsy Owls Team has decided to coordinate a sale this Black Friday, but it's not just any sale, it's a BLACK FRIDAY BONANZA! The sale runs from Thanksgiving Day through December 6th, and there are so many great deals to be had!

The Owls comprise artisans and craftspersons with a large variety of skills and wares, so you're sure to find items to please everyone on your gift list! Just visit Etsy and search for "etsyowlsteam." You can also check out the team store for unique items!

Winter Yarn Clubs

2009-10-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

It's time for the Bumblebirch Winter Yarn Club! As usual, I have a 3-month Yarn + Tea subscription. These packages are filled with goodies and, best of all, you can choose sock yarn or worsted yarn!

For those who would like to keep it simple and subscribe to the yarn only (all right, I'll admit an occasional stitch marker might find its way in there), I'm offering 3-month and 1-month subscriptions.

Etsy OWLs Team Feature: WeiOpenSecret

2009-10-05T16:29:00.000-07:00

Wei is a graphic designer and crafter from Michigan whose lovely shop, Wei's Open Secret, showcases invitations, printed cards, luggage tags, party favors, and other accessories. Just look at her cute characters!

Wei has a blog where you can follow her shop news and get the latest updates. Check it out!

Etsy OWLs Team Feature: Squarejane

2009-10-05T15:11:00.000-07:00

Over the next few weeks, I'll be sharing with you the work of the talented designers that are part of the Etsy OWLs Team. For this first installation, I present Squarejane!

Based in Oliver, B.C., Squarejane creates custom sewn and knitted goods and paintings. She has over 30 years of experience with fiber and textile arts and it really shows in her beautiful work:

Squarejane's creative style overflows into her paintings as well:

Etsy OWLs Team Feature: Zemphira

2009-10-05T11:52:00.000-07:00

This Etsy Owls Team feature focuses on Zemphira, another midwesterner who loves making dolls, toys, bags and other useful sewn items. Her creations are colorful, whimsical, and also quite practical.

I really love her style and the way she mixes fabrics in her fun and creative pieces. Check out her shop and I'll bet you'll fall in love with those plushie owls, too!

Etsy OWLs Team Feature: Inky Paws

2009-10-05T11:18:00.000-07:00

Today's featured OWL is Inky Paws, a crafter also based in beautiful Oregon, in Bend. My regional neighbor seems to share my love of little creatures and soft textures--I already have one of her cute owls!

Not only does Inky Paws make the sweetest little plushies, she also hand-carves stamps and prints stationary:

Be sure to check out Inky Paws' blog too!

Etsy OWLs Team Feature: FashionablyChic

2009-10-05T08:06:00.000-07:00

Fashionably Chic, based in fashionable New York City, certainly has her own classy style when it comes to handmade jewelry. She combines beautiful colors, sizes and textures to create one-of-a-kind treasures. Check out some of her great pieces:

It's difficult to choose just a handful of items from her shop, since they're all so beautiful! Take a peek in her shop and you'll love the treasures you find!

Etsy OWLs Team Feature: AoDesigns

2009-10-05T07:14:00.000-07:00

It's time for another Etsy Owls Team feature! Let's talk about Angela of AoDesigns, a jeweler based in Lancombe, Louisiana. Angela creates customized jewelry, and hand stamped jewelry and pet identification tags using sterling silver and copper.

I especially love the sweet pet ID tags she makes!

You can read more about Angela and her fabulous work on her blog!

September Yarn + Tea Club Teaser

2009-09-15T12:00:00.000-07:00

Here's a little peek for the Bumblebirch Yarn + Tea Club Subscribers:

The Open Sea

If you missed out on the Autumn Yarn + Tea Club, you can still subscribe to all three months of sock yarn. The Winter Yarn + Tea Club is coming soon!

New summer colors

2009-09-14T16:52:00.000-07:00

I've added 2 new skeins of sock yarn to the shop inspired by late summer. I think they're lovely and I hope you do too!

Bumblebirch Yarn + Tea Club

2009-08-25T08:51:00.001-07:00

The Bumblebirch Yarn + Tea Club combines two of my favorite things: knitting and tea. When I knit, it's almost meditative; I let the warm, soft fiber slide through my hands and the tea warms my whole body. As the cooler weather approaches, I'm eager to stock up on knitting projects that will keep my feet and hands and head warm--and that of my family!

I've come up with themes for this season's three packages. My hope is that they'll take you on a sensory journey, excite your imagination, and warm your heart.

September: The Open Sea
October: Golden Harvest
November: Snow White

One of the features of the Yarn + Tea Club is that you can choose to receive sock yarn OR worsted weight yarn. As a club member, you can even order extra skeins if you're planning a larger project.

The Autumn season of the Yarn + Tea Club will start in September, and there are only 3 spots left as of right now. If you're interested in the Yarn Club but don't want the tea & goodies, you can subscribe to just the yarn. These colorways won't be available to non-club members, so join today!

If you missed out on this season, look forward to the Winter Yarn + Tea Club. With the first shipment mid-December, they make the perfect holiday gift!

Petite Droplet Stitch Markers

2009-08-21T10:46:00.000-07:00

These dainty stitch markers are oh-so-cute and yet oh-so-practical! Some lucky Sock Summiteers managed to get their hands on them, but I still have some in the shop.

Petite Droplets are perfect for lace or sock knitting. The rings fit needles up to size 3.25mm or US 5, and there's absolutely NO gap for catching your yarn. The single colorful Czech glass bead adds sparkle but doesn't dangle too much in your knitting.

New Blog for Bumblebirch

2009-08-18T09:23:00.000-07:00

Test test test!

Welcome to the new blog! I figured it was time to have a blog dedicated to the "business" side of my life: dedicated to Bumblebirch.

I've been busy making plans for upcoming seasonal yarn clubs, and they're going to be awesome! There is a theme for each month's package:

September: The Open Sea
October: Golden Harvest
November: Snow White

Here are a couple of my own hand-dyed colorways, which are currently available in my shop.

Violet Dusk

Ginger Peach

I've got some mini-skeins in the dyepot as I type and I can't wait to show you what I've been cooking up!