Crochet Savvy Magazine Fall 2015 Issue by Knit Fabulous & Crochet Savvy

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Table of Contents

Table of Contents 8

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter

Fall Fashion: Lots of Layers

10 Staff Bios

Your favorite people!

14 Cover Story

Shannon Mullett-Bowlsby

22 Wear Crochet

Our Fall 2015 Lookbook

Table of Contents

28 Runway Crochet 42 Product Reviews

Featuring Monica Jones

30 Featured Designers

Mary Jane Hall Peter Franzi Willena Nanton

Quick Crochet Accessories Colorful Crochet Lace Crochet for Christmas

48 Fall Patterns 52 Awareness:

The Peyton Heart Project 5

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter

Fall Fashions Lots of Layers Dear Crochet Savvy Readers, Fall snuck up on me before I could finish enjoying my summer. Even though I love the changing of the season, I am truly summer girl. I could be happy if it was 80 degrees everyday, but I have to admit that what I do love about fall, though, are the fashions, especially boots, jackets and coats. I confess that I started wearing my boots in August because I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait for the cooler temperatures. I do believe that fall fashions give us more opportunities to show our creativity because we can add more layers. Layers were a constant reoccurrence on the runway at the recent fall New York Fashion Week. There were lots of lacy shells that could be worn alone or under cardigans or jackets. Scarves are still important layering pieces, too. Great looks to be combined in multiple ways to express our individuality. Our featured designers share their love of fashion on the runways and in publications in unique ways. Each designer has exclusive point of view about crochet that shows the unlimited potential for the art form. From everyday garments to fantastical costumes, these designers use crochet to make it happen with just a hook and yarn. Thanks to all of you who have been visiting the Crochet Savvy Facebook page to share your work and other crochet-related info. Please take the time to visit the websites of our featured designers, and let them know you read about them here. Take care,

Turquoiz Blue Editor in Chief 8

Crochet Savvy Magazine Rhonda â&#x20AC;&#x153;TurquoizBlueâ&#x20AC;? Davis Editor-in-Chief Karen Thistle Assistant Editor Julie-Sarah Desjardins French Editor/ Translator Isabelle Barrett Feature Writer/Translator Aldonia Secession Charity Feature Writer L. Keturah Malinconico Founder/ Creative Director

www.crochetsavvy.com www.facebook.com/ crochetsavvymagazine 9

Our Staff

Our Staff & Contr

Keturah Malinconico Founder/ Creative Director

Turquoiz Blue Editor in Chief

Keturah is a debut author and has been in the hiphop industry for more than 13 years. An advocate for charity and having joy through trials, she teaches through motivation and inspiration a message of hope and balance for people, especially stay-at-homemoms, who feel that they are completely lost tending to children, husbands and house duties.

Rhonda Davis aka TurquoizBlue lives in Atlanta, GA, where she is a multimedia designer specializing in creating experiences with fiber and digital media. She has been designing professionally since 2007, and her background includes degrees in Web Design and Visual Communications, along with a MFA in Digital Media Design.

She currently has a BA in Liberal Arts and an MBA in Business Administration and is a graphics designer and networker. She loves to use her creativity through arts, music and crafting (crocheting, knitting & sewing) to encourage others. Keturah currently resides in Toronto, ON with her family. For more info about her and her designs check out: www.knitfabulous.org.

TurquoizBlueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to help users have meaningful encounters with design. She is an accomplished designer whose work has been featured in top fiber design magazines. TurquoizBlue currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Southeast Fibert Arts Alliance (SEFAA), a non-profit community of individuals, organizations, and businesses working together to advance their common interest in the fiber art. She can be found on her blog at http://www. thisiscrochet.com, as well as most social media sites as @TurquoizBlue.

ributors

Karen Thistle Assistant Editor Copyeditor Karen Thistle’s Aunt Blanche was the first person to show her the joy and beauty of crochet. During one extended visit, her aunt made a zig-zag afghan to keep Karen’s mom cozy and also a matching skirt, top, and hat created with the same yarn for Karen’s doll. First lesson learned: crochet means love. Even so, Karen became a knitter around 1999—blame it on a failure of nerve; at the time, she felt she needed the security of two needles. In 2011, however, she got tired of having to pass up perfectly lovely patterns just because they were crochet. She grabbed a Boye hook, the book Crocheting For Dummies, 2nd Edition, and a ball of yarn, then started learning the craft in earnest. She’s loving it!

Aldonia Secession Charity Feature Writer Aldonia has always been creative. To escape life she would find something creative to keep her occupied. Just last year she came across the world of fiber arts; and thought, crocheting looks like fun but refused to make your everyday blankets. With no one willing to teach a left handed person to crochet, she taught herself. After practicing and rewriting patterns she saw online she decided to write her own. She is an active volunteer for the children’s festival and fundraiser of Cochise County and is crocheting winter hats for the teens. She is from Bridgeport, Connecticut and has two loving children. She is also a self taught Left-handed crocheter since 2012 and is the owner of Barnwell’s Delight in Arizona https://www.facebook.com/pages/Barnwells-Delight

Mom now has a rectangular shawl to cuddle up in as well.

Crochet Savvy Francais

Julie-Sarah Desjardins French Editor & Translator

I’m Julie... aka ACCROchet! I am also mom (& stepmom) to 2 teenagers, almost-wife to a fantastic man, and a communications professional. I live with my family & too many pets in the suburbs of Montreal. I’ve been an avid crocheter for over 10 years, and hope to make you an addict too! ACCROchet. In French, ACCRO means addict. I am a crochet addict. And am I attempting to hide it? Gawd no; quite the opposite! I publish my personal brand of crazy everywhere and for all to see! And I trust/hope you’ll join me. 10 years ago today (no matter when you read this, it’ll always be 10 years ago today) I picked up 2 knitting needles and some yarn my mom had laying around, and I decided to teach myself to knit. 22 minutes later, stressed and discouraged beyond belief I threw the needles across the room and wallowed in self-pity. But then… then I talked to an American friend who was crazy about crochet and she showed me that all I needed was one less tool! Crochet has evolved, has made itself over and is the current up-and-coming fiber star. It is modern and trendy. And so tragically misunderstood.

Isabelle BarRette Asst. French Translator Hi! My name is Isabelle and I am the proud mother of two wonderful little ladies of 3 and 4 years old and the wife of an equally wonderful husband. My family supports me by patiently letting me fill our apartment from top to bottom with various types of gorgeous yarn. I learned knitting and crochet with books and YouTube about 8 years ago to satisfy an increasing desire for creation. I always have a hook and yarn in my bag juuuust in case I have a crochet emergency (you never know!). I crochet hats, scarves, slippers and mostly softies which I share on my blog L’araignée Gambadeuse at http://thewanderingspiderr.blogspot.ca/

Shannon Mullett-Bowlsby

Reinventing the F

and the way we see “Crochet F by: Keturah Malinconico

Shannon & Jason Mullett-Bowlsby are the “Shibaguyz” from Shibaguyz Designz. Most of us know them from their fabulous books on fashion crochet as well as Shannon’s face at venues and shows as a crochet instructor. Shannon has a “unique flair” in the way he combines all elements of crafting with yarn into his fashion. And with the combination of Jason’s photography and graphic designthe pair turns their work into one “cohesive whole.” Shannon’s award winning crochet & knit designs have been featured in and on the covers of both US and international publications. He currently has over 200 published patterns credited to his name since his first design was featured on the cover of a magazine in 2010. Shannon has been teaching adults for 20+ years and is a Craft Yarn Council certified instructor. Jason- the other half of the Shibaguyz

Photo credit for all photos in article: ShibaGuyz Photography

Cover Story

Fashion Industry

Fashion”

team is a professional fashion and portrait photographer whose fashion photography can be seen in many of the Shibaguyz’ pattern books. Jason also works as a freelance book-packaging designer and photographer for indie knitwear designers as well as major publishing houses like Sterling Publishing, Leisure Arts, Quayside, and Creative Publishing. Shibaguyz Designz has proudly been featured on the covers of 10 magazines and featured in articles in industry magazines throughout the U.S. and abroad. The duo has released over 200 patterns for magazines like Crochet! Magazine, Creative Knitting, Crochet Today, Interweave Crochet, Noro Knitting Magazine, and Crochet World; and yarn companies like Tahki Stacy Charles, Noro, Mango Moon, Buffalo Wool, Bijou Basin Ranch, Red Heart, and Premier Yarns since that first cover design in 2010. Shannon and Jason’s classes have been featured at venues such as the Dallas Fort Worth Fiber Festival, Oregon Flock and Fiber Festival, Knit Fit, and will be teaching at the 2015 New York State Sheep and Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY and at STITCHES West in 2016. They currently have online classes available from Craftsy and Interweave. Shibaguyz Designz has also published 8 books of crochet and knitwear patterns including their NEW book Designer Crochet: 32 patterns to elevate your style (April 2015 Sterling/ Lark Crafts Publishing). Their pattern books specialize in patterns that fit a wide range of sizes from size small through 5X. Currently, the Shibaguyz are working on their 9th book of designs and photography scheduled for release in March of 2016 from Sterling/Lark Crafts Publishing. And now, Crochet Savvy Magazine was so honored to get a chance to interview this amazing designer. Q) How did you begin your way into the crochet world?

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Cover Story

A) I have been crocheting and knitting since I was very young. They say I was around 3 years old when my grandmother put a hook in my hand. Professionally, I sold my first patterns to magazines in 2009 with my first cover in 2010. That’s also around the same time we sold our first set of patterns to a publisher for our first books. I had been making garments for clients for quite some time by then but 2009 was when I started writing patterns and when this current incarnation of my design career really got under way. Q) What makes you value and focus on the couture of crochet fashion? A) I really focus more on the design I’m working on than the actual way I’m making it. That is, I focus on the fabric and what I need it to do more so than whether it’s a crocheted or knitted garment. I think crochet has been such a strong focus for me because I saw a challenge to create the types of fabrics I wanted for my designs. There just weren’t examples of the types of fabrics I wanted to make out there so I decided to really play with crochet and work to create fabrics that suited my design needs. I became obsessed with creating beautiful fabrics for the designs I had in my head and I wasn’t willing to accept that I could only do that if I used knitting as my medium. Q) What inspires you when you design? A) Everything inspires me! As a designer and, generally, a creative person, everything I encounter on a daily basis inspires and influences my work. From the music that I listen to, the people and architecture of the city we live in, the mountains we go hiking in, to textures in buildings and in nature… it all helps shape my design aesthetic and influences how I see my creative world in the studio. Q) What is the total process of going from idea in your head to published pattern? A) That’s a big question… how long do you have?? HA! I sketch a lot. Those sketches might not be fully formed ideas, but I like to get details or fabric ideas down quickly when I think of them. Initially, I might only

sketch out a collar or silhouette or make notes on how I want something to fit or drape. Then I get into the studio and flesh out a more complete design. I sketch and I drape fabrics and swatches to make what I have in my head come to life in my concept sketches. Sometimes I will do one or two concept sketches but there are times when my brain goes into overdrive and I will sketch for days and days without stopping. The most I ever did in one week like that was 250 sketches when I was getting ready to submit several proposals at once. I just started sketching from my notes and didn’t stop for a week. Now I will do several sketches in a day then jot down or do rough sketches of other ideas so I have a trigger to pick up the next day where I left off. After a sketch, I will start swatching with my yarn inventory to create the perfect fabric for my designs. I have a huge swatch library because I swatch every yarn in both crochet and knitting and in multiple stitches to create multiple fabrics. Especially with a new yarn, I will swatch two skeins of it just to put it through its paces and see what it can do. From these swatches, I will match them up with the fabrics I wanted to create for the design I sketched. Once I have the fabric finalized, I start writing and sizing the pattern and draw any charts and schematics that go with the piece. My patterns are sized S-5X for our books and personal pattern line so this is where I pay particular attention to making that design work across that entire size range. There is a lot of draping of sample fabrics and we cut muslins of a lot of our garments just to make sure the fit is good across the entire range of sizes. Once the pattern is written, we send it to one of our tech editors for editing and also send a copy to one of our contractors to have the sample made. We work with an amazing team of professional technical editors and sample makers so help bring that final vision to life for us. Finally, the sample components come back to us as we do nearly all of our finishing in house. Blocking, sewing, finishing… it’s all done by our hands to make sure a garment is of the highest quality whether it is going to a private client, a magazine, our publisher, or our own pattern line. Details are where it all comes together.

After the piece is finished and we are happy with how it looks, we either send the piece off to the client or, if it is for one of our own patterns or for our publisher, we hire the models and get to work photographing the pieces. Jason is an amazing photographer and has an eye for fiber art photography like no one I’ve ever met. He knows just how to show the details of a garment so people know exactly what they are getting when they make one of our patterns. Finally, Jason does our layout and graphics, and the piece is ready to publish! Whew That’s how it goes… except for when it doesn’t… then it’s something else. HA! But that’s a good generalization of my process. Concept, sketches and notes, final sketch, patterning/sizing/schematics, editing, sample making, finishing, photography, layout, publish.

Yeah… that’s pretty much it. Just throw in a lot of coffee, chocolate, some long sanity breaks that involve hiking in the mountains, and more than a few hours spent staring at my inspiration wall and you have a fairly accurate account of my design process. Q) Do you think that you have grown as a designer since your first book? If yes, then how have you grown? What can you tell new designers to help guide them along their way? A) I think I grow every time I create a new design. I’m always pushing myself to make something better or include a detail that I’ve always wanted to see in my work. Better designs, better fits, better patterns, better fabrics… I’m always trying to grow, learn, and develop my skills and that shows in my work. For new designers: First, learn your basic skills about design and about

Cover Story

running a business. Learn how to make great fabrics and understand garment construction and design but also learn how to run a business. Yes, we are creative and want to make pretty things, but we are also business people and we can’t create without being able to make a living at it. You can have all the skills to create beautiful clothes, but if you don’t know anything about how to balance inventory with expenses or how to do basic marketing and promotions, you’re not going to last long.

been a teacher for nearly half my life. When I have a clear vision and a message to get out, teaching is the logical communication medium for me. From our tutorials on ShibaguyzDesignz.com, to our online classes and our live classes at events all over the country, teaching is how we share the skills we feel are relevant to our community. It is an amazing feeling to be able to work with students and know you are passing on a skill that they can use and probably pass on to someone else.

Next, keep learning as you go. We have to be learning and developing our skills all the time or else we just become stagnant. And stagnation is not a good thing for a fashion designer.

And, no, I don’t think teaching is the next logical step for anyone. You can be a good designer and not a good teacher and vice versa. One certainly does not lead to the other. Teaching is a whole other set of skills separate from designing and not everyone has those skills no matter how talented they may be in other areas of their lives.

Finally, I’d tell new designers to go to work. Every day go to work. If you were running a yogurt shop, you’d have to get up every day, unlock the doors, turn on the light, and run the shop. You would track your inventory and your expenses and do the banking, hire people to do promotions and buy ads to bring people into your store. It’s no different when you are a designer. Again, yes, we are “creatives,” but we are also business people. Get up and work every day. Q) So you are now an instructor at Craftsy.com. Tell us about that journey. Is it hard work doing the recording and teaching? Is teaching something you enjoy- like an evolution in the designer? We notice more designers going the teacher route. Is this the ultimate step for you or will you keep designing? A) I’ve been a teacher for over 20 years in different fields and different disciplines. I love teaching and working with students. When Craftsy contacted me, I was already a student and a fan of the Craftsy business model so it was an easy yes for me. I have taught two classes for them so far and loved every minute of the process from concept through the last minute of filming. If you go to the Classes page on ShibaguyzDesignz.com, you can see all of our classes including links to my Craftsy classes and to Jason’s two online photography classes with F&W media (the Interweave folks). I don’t know about other designers, but, as I said, I’ve

The “ultimate step”? I don’t think we know the “ultimate step” yet. I will keep designing and we will keep teaching and we’ll see where it all goes from there! Q) Your husband is a photographer. In a previous magazine issue, we focused on product photography and the benefits of proper photos to sell patterns. What are your thoughts on designers learning/ hiring photographers for their work? Is it important or no? What has been your benefit of having a photographer? A) Yes! Jason is the talent behind Shibaguyz Photography and is an amazing photographer in general but has a great eye for fiber arts photography. I’ve never seen anyone better at it. And, yes, it is absolutely imperative to me that we use high-quality photography to represent our work. Why would I work this hard on developing my design line just to finish it all off with improperly photographed patterns? It’s not even really a question at all. Good photography that focuses on my product is an absolute. If Jason were not a professional photographer who understood the photography of fiber arts and handmade goods, we would hire one to accurately represent our work. The real benefit of having Jason as our photographer

around with our three Shiba Inu (the Shibakidz) around Seattle or we’re off hiking. For more info on Shannon & Jason, find them on the web below: Links http://Shibaguyz.com http://ShibaguyzDesignz.com http://ShibaguyzPhotography.com http://www.ravelry.com/designers/shannon-mullettbowlsby https://www.facebook.com/ShibaguyzDesignz https://twitter.com/Shibaguyz Books by Shannon Mullett-Bowlsby and Shibaguyz Designz

has been that he is involved directly in the design and production of the garments. This gives him a unique insight into how to properly photograph the pieces. He knows how to represent our work correctly and he does an amazing job at it. I’m always stunned when he finishes a shoot… whether it’s my work or another designer’s work. He just knows how to bring out the best in our designs. Q) Do you have any other hobbies other than crochet? We see you on instagram canning? Are you into gardening and cooking as well? What things do you do to relax when you are not crocheting? A) Crochet and knitting are not my hobbies… this is what I do for a living. I might work on a personal project from time to time but, generally, this is work. I love it! But still it’s not a hobby. As far as relaxing, we love cooking, gardening, hiking, dancing, and I am a voracious reader. When we aren’t working in the studios, we are probably meandering

Heady Affairs; Leisure Arts, Inc; July 2011 And That’s a Wrap; Leisure Arts, Inc; November 2011 Urban Edge – 13 crochet designs in sizes small to 5X; Leisure Arts, Inc, January 2012 Cool Weather Fashions; Leisure Arts, Inc; August 2012 Crochet Ponchos; Leisure Arts, Inc; August 2012 Moonstruck – Ten Sensuous Knit Patterns, Sized Small–5X; February 2013 Designer Crochet – 32 Wardrobe Essentials in Lightweight Yarn, Sized Small–5X; Sterling/Lark Publishing; April 2015 TBA – Sterling/Lark Publishing; March 2016 Literary Agent Linda Roghaar Literary Agency, LLC 133 High Point Drive Amherst, Massachusetts 01002 413-256-1921 Bookings and Media Queries info@shibaguyz.com Article Photo credit: Jason Mullett-Bowlsby, Shibaguyz Photography | http://www.shibaguyzphotography.com

Wear Crochet Our Fall 2015 Lookbook

wear crochet fall 2015

Monica Jones

Runway Crochet Catwalk Fashions from Triple Stitch Diva Monica Jones

Featured Designers

Mary Jane Hall

by: TurquoizBlue

I’m originally from Texas but have lived in Ohio several years. I was a stay at home mom but as my 3 children got older I began a singing career which kept me busy entertaining at fairs, festivals, weddings, and many other events, such as appearing regularly on a weekly TV show here in the Dayton area. My repertoire included songs of Karen Carpenter, The Judds, Amy Grant, Patsy Cline, Anne Murray and Linda Rondstat. My newest book, Colorful Crochet Lace was released July 24, 2015 and I’m very happy it’s doing so well. After putting around 9 months of time and effort into a book, I feel like it’s my “baby” and as you look through it, you’ll see my heart flowing through every page. Some may know me from my previous books, Positively Crochet! and Crochet That Fits. After CTF, I had to take a few years off from designing due to some circumstances in my life that I almost did not recover from. But after finally realizing the only thing that would help me heal was to put my focus back onto something I really loved and could get excited about, which was my designing career. Not only does the motion of working the hook and yarn calm and soothe our senses as its forming into something incredible, but our minds were made to create, which gives us such a sense of accomplishment. One of my deep rooted satisfactions in life is in helping people in any way I am able and I really enjoy the thought of helping to make crochet easier for anyone out there who may struggle from time to time, so I always have that in the back of my mind as I’m writing my patterns.

In fact, the beginning of my designing career was a result of helping others. It never even entered my mind to become a designer and I have a deep conviction that when we help others, we are naturally going to reap many blessings. It’s a fact of life. No matter what we do, we will reap consequences, which will be either positive or negative. In 2004 I was teaching a crochet class with around 30 eager girls from ages 7 - 61, who wanted to find new and updated poncho

Featured Designers

patterns. Since I couldn’t find patterns they wanted, I began, for the first time ever, to design ponchos and capelets in several shapes. This is what led me to design professionally. When I submitted some projects to Kooler Design Studio, they called and told me they wanted to do not only, but 2 booklets of my designs! I guess you could say I was flabbergasted! This is how Crochet Young and Trendy and Crochet in Style came about. They sailed across the charts that year (2005). I got busy designing more projects and submitted all 11 to Carol Alexander of DRG, who at the time had 7 different publications which included Crochet! Magazine. She accepted all 11and the rest is history! I said to myself “They must think I have talent”, so I decided to make it a career. That was 10 years ago and I’ve loved every minute of it, except for the strict deadlines of course. Who would have known that shy little teenage girl who taught herself to crochet would grow up to do the things I’ve been fortunate enough to accomplishment. I didn’t even believe in myself, but I credit my desire to help those girls learn to crochet as the reason for my success. My obsession for helping crocheters was my goal in writing Crochet That Fits. I came up with a new method of making shaped crochet garments and accessories without having to use increases or decreases. I call this my Graduated Stitch Method and 1,000’s of people are now making their own fitted and flattering garments for the first time, even if they’ve only made scarves, washcloths and afghans before. I’m thrilled this easy method has helped women who have been crocheting for 30 or 40 years make their own for their first time ever. I love getting their messages, reading about their excitement and seeing their photos, which makes me so happy! To my surprise, the book was voted “Best Crochet Pattern Book of 2008”. The Little black Dress on the front cover is a beginner project! I wrote Positively Crochet! and put an encouraging tip on life with each pattern page. Having spoken to many women’s groups on relationships I wanted to share some of the principles I thought would help make their lives better. I believe those tips on life are what helped this book be a best seller, not to mention the 50 projects, a huge variety in this day and time.

Colorful Crochet Lace is a book I’ve been wanting to write for a very long time because making crochet lace garments and accessories is my favorite way to showcase this amazing craft. We had to narrow down my 44 sketches to only 22 for this book. That was not an easy task and it was killing me not to be able to use some of my other favorites. I do have all these in mind for another book, more in the boho style with maxi dresses, fringe, wide brimmed hats, etc! This aesthetic just didn’t fit in with the look of Colorful Crochet Lace. Even though I have always loved lacy Victorian things and stitches such as open lace fans and shells, I wanted to create some garments that would appeal to a variety of people. Some of the designs are lacy and feminine, such as the Au Naturel cropped top with a delicate edging, the Parisian Gardens Circular Shawl, the Juliette Scarf, the Ooh La La Flared Dress, the La Fleur Doily Bag and of course my favorite, the Haute Couture Peplum Top, which has no increases or decreases in the upper body part. The Brigitte Wide Belt is a feminine piece, but one person made the comment she was reminded of the “Steampunk” style when she saw the belt! Then there are other projects

a little less frilly such as the Tunique Unique Pullover and the Cafe Au Lait T-shirt. Many have asked about my motivation in coming up with the Parisian theme. I’ve been to several countries but it has been a life long dream of mine to go to Paris! I have a Pinterest board titled “Paris”, and have pinned photos of beautiful scenery, ornate buildings with balconies, sidewalk cafes and especially the Eiffel tower. Some of my ancestors were from France and I’ve always wanted to go there to see where they lived and maybe even walk on some of the same paths they did. I asked the publisher (Interweave Press /F+W) if we could do the photo shoot with a Parisian theme and find an ornate sidewalk cafe and a beautiful garden. They loved the idea and found a place in Denver where the photo shoot took place. I think the photographer, Joe Hancock, did a fantastic job and I am thrilled with the photos! My inspiration and motivation comes from current “trendy” garments and accessories, what I love doing best, so I have to keep up with the latest styles. I do that by watching runway shows and looking through fashion magazines. I subscribe to 8 magazines but sometimes don’t even have time to look through them all!

Please visit Mary Jane Hall online at: Blog: http://positivelycrochet.blogspot.com/ Ravelry: http://www.ravelry.com/people/maryjane2 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maryjane. perryhall Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/maryjanedesign/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/maryjanecrochet Instagram - https://instagram.com/maryjane.hall/ Tumbr - http://maryjanehall.tumblr.com Google+ https://plus.google. com/107516222355797139475 Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/ Mary-Jane-Hall/e/B001JSB7CW/ref=dp_byline_cont_ book_1 Flickr - https://www.flickr.com/photos/16997655@ N06/albums

A highlight of my designing career was when Candice Jensen invited me to appear on the TV show “Knit and Crochet Now”, where my signature method of making garments without increases and decreases was featured. I’ve also spoken at many other crochet events, such as a week-end retreat in Chicago, and my designs have been featured in fashion shows, both nationally and locally. Between writing books, my designs have been published in magazines such as Vogue Knitting Crochet, Fifth Avenue magazine, Crochet! magazine, Interweave Crochet, Crochet Today and others, including tear sheets for Hobby Lobby. I would be honored for you to check out my new book, Colorful Crochet Lace with 5 star reviews and hope you find something you just have to make! I love seeing your projects so please post them on Ravelry and you may get a request for your project to be featured on the pattern page!

Featured Designers

Peter Franzi

by: TurquoizBlue

I first picked up hook and yarn. My first design was published in 2007, in Debbie Stoller’s collection, Son of Stitch ‘n Bitch, 45 Projects to Knit and Crochet for Men. Buoyed by this success and determined to get my voice heard, I have continued designing, providing projects for most of the major crochet magazines.

I am a self-taught crocheter who, at the tender age of 50, was fortunate enough to learn the skills required quickly. (I will not mention the skills I taught myself incorrectly. That is a story for another time.) I had always been fascinated with the needle arts and, since my mother had crocheted (although she was always reluctant to teach me; she was a child of her generation which seemed overly concerned with gender identity). I never dreamed I would take to crocheting so quickly, let alone eventually make a living as a designer. I realized, shortly on, that there was a dearth of designs for men’s apparel and, if I wanted something flattering for myself, I might have to dabble in designing something. Those skills were not so easily learned. But, success in designing took place about 7 years after

I have built a reputation for crafting in traditional forms using unusual techniques and lighter weight yarns. Since we crocheters produce a fabric that is significantly denser than our knitting friends, it makes sense to me to stay away from heavy yarns. I have been cited for creative use of texture and color. According to my friends, I just can’t keep things simple. It’s a curse. To be very practical, my goal is to design apparel men would wear. I don’t have a particular age group in mind. I just think “middle of the road with great eye appeal”. That works for me and seems to please my audience. I am currently featured in each issue Interweave Crochet with a pattern for men and a column on designing for men entitled “Chain Male”.

Featured Designers

Find me on: Website: http://chainmaledesign.com Ravelry: http://www.ravelry.com/people/ ChainMaleDesign Ravelry store: http://www.ravelry.com/stores/chainmale-design Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ chainmaledesign Twitter: https://twitter.com/PeterFranzi

Featured Designers

Willena Nanton

by: Turquoiz Blue

Crocheting has been a part of my life since I was 8 years old. I learned to crochet from my Godmother. I remember the connection that I had with her and her willingness to teach me to crochet. When I was a kid, my sister and I received ponchos from this same godmother. She gave us something special with love and this start my love of crochet and wanting to learn various stitches including the shell stitch. The amazing thing is that she will ask me to crochet a blanket for her as a baby gift presently. She loves my tapestry crochet work because she is more of a traditional style crocheter. Crocheting is an integral part of my life and I cannot go a week without the hook and yarn. It was in 1991 that I learned that I could do so much more with crochet. I learned tapestry crochet and freeform. These techniques changes my life. I started creating blankets with teddy bears, fictional characters, animals, etc. and waited patiently for the next newborn or retiree. As I became comfortable with the technique, I started making wearables. At first, I started with a simple technique of two colors and then I gradually added more colors to the dresses and scarves. I have created many crochet pieces over the years for friends and family but I have also been a big contributor to charity organizations. In 1994, I created the Multi-hands Crochet Blanket Drive that donated crochet blankets to shelter with mothers and children. I was able to do this for a few years and began working with a New York City Middle School. They took it over.

I have participated in CGOA hat drive, Special Olympics scarf program, blankets for a dogs at an Animal Shelter. One Christmas, I created about 25 scarves for children so that my mother could give as gifts at her Senior Citizen Center. I like to share my crocheting because it bring awareness to the craft and to show that crochet is more than just lace and granny squares.

Featured Designers

I am a member of the CGOA and the New York City Crochet Guild. I was also president for the New York City Crochet Guild for a total of three years. Being a member of these organizations changed my crochet life and encouraged me to create one of a kind crochet designs. I became Certified Crochet Instructor with the Craft Yarn Council in 1996 and have taught several classes over the years such as beginner crochet and tapestry crochet. As a member of the New York City Crochet Guild, I was able to participate and create the Masks patterns for the Museum of Arts & Design “A Day of Sculptural Crochet, The Red Scarf Project for the Orphan Foundation of American, A Day of Crocheted Jewelry, and the Hyperbolic Coral Reef Project. I have had a few designs published in books and magazines. Here are some listed below. Free Form Rust Poncho appeared in Fabulous Crocheted Ponchos by Terry Taylor (2005) Carnival Afghan in Donna Kooler’s Crocheted Afghans (2004) Blue Cap in Today’s Crochet- Sweaters from the Crochet Guild of America by Susan Huxley (2003) Berry-Licious Scarf and Hat in Crochet! Magazine-November 2009 Diamond Rose Dress & Alani Sweater in Crochet! Magazine- Spring 2014 We had the opportunity to interview Willena for our fall magazine issue. She was wonderful. Q) Willena, I first became familiar with you when I saw the crocheted dress with the New York City skyline that you designed for the CGOA fashion show. Tell us more about your crochet experience. A) I had been crocheting since I was a child and had made traditional blankets, scarves, hats with patterns or from a stitch pattern book. I knew I wanted to do more with crochet and create my own style. I wanted to have a challenge in crochet since I had been doing it for over 15 years at the time. In 1991, I discovered and learned tapestry crochet, which changed my life. It took many weeks to master tapestry crochet because of the switching of the colors and making sure that the yarn strands were hidden. With this technique, I could create a solid fabric that would look good with

crocheting and be wearable during the four seasons in New York and not just winter. There were not many tapestry crochet patterns so I started using cross stitch designs. I always loved cross stitch designs with their detail and color schemes but I did not want to use a needle and thread because it took too long. I quickly learned that I could use yarn and hook to create the same designs with less color schemes. I continued to use this technique to this day because it allows me to use various color, fibers and stitches that make the design flattering and beautiful. Tapestry crochet and freeform (crocheting on all four sides of your crochet square, circle, rectangle to make the dress or sweater) have allowed me to think outside of traditional crochet and to create my own style making one of a kind designs. I love wearing them at the CGOA fashion show and at other evening events Q) What are your favorite items to crochet? A) I love to crochet baby blankets, sweaters, dresses and scarves.

Featured Designers

Q) How long have you been involved with the CGOA runway shows? A) The first CGOA fashion show that I attended was in 2003. I had a couple of items in the fashion show that was modeled by someone else. After that year, they allowed the designers or attendees to model the clothes. It made the fashion show fun and interesting and the designers loved it. I have been unable to go in the past couple of years because of conflicts with my schedule but I always submit an original dress for the design contest. My designs have won twice over the years in the design contest. Q) How do you come up with your concepts for your fashions, and what type of planning do you do for the CGOA fashion shows? A) I love to create fabric with my crochet and then turn it into a wearable. I incorporate tapestry crochet into most of my designs. So I will either look for a cross stitch design that I feel that will be suitable for a dress or create my own cross stitch patterns. Sometimes, I will come up with a concept and thumb through all my cross stitch magazines and books to see if I can locate the design. Other times, I might decide that I want to create my own design and have to graph it with paper or on cross stitch program. For example, the City Nights dress was based on a photograph that I had taken. I scanned the photo into a cross stitch program and then had to decide if I wanted many colors or a couple of colors for the skyline. I had chosen to do this design because I wanted something that represent my tapestry crochet style and that would give a wow factor. The City Nights bottom was designed first and then the dress. The planning process can take 2 to 3 months and the dress can be completed in 4-7 weeks. City Nights was created for the design contest, which had to be an original design. It was worn in the fashion show after winning 2nd place in the contest. In that same year, I wore a leopard print dress for the fashion show. The dress took about 2 weeks to make. I needed a quick design and the leopard was quick to make. Q) Do you have any advice for other designers who may be considering attending or participating in the show?

Featured Designers A) CGOA is an amazing event. The conference offers more classes, the marketplace, the contest and fashion show. You also meet fellow crocheters that share your passion for the craft. Everyone should go at least once to experience it and participate in the fashion show. It is an opportunity to showcase your designs and style. Q) Can you describe what is like to participate in the CGOA shows?

Q) Anything else you might like to share? A) As a child, I always wanted to be a fashion designer. I would doodle in my notebook designing different clothes and imagine that one day they would appear on the runway. The clothes were made out of fabric and not yarn. As life continued, it just became a dream. My dream became a reality after I became a member of CGOA and New York City Crochet Guild. I could make designs for the CGOA fashion show as well as for the New York City Crochet Guild fashion show and wear them at these events. Joining CGOA has been a great benefit. I also won 3rd place in the CGOA design contest for Flower Princess in 2011. In addition, during the year I attend the Barbie Convention and I get to create and model real life Barbie Outfits that I crochet.

A) It is fun and exciting to wear your crochet on the runway. Crocheters and attendees enjoy participating because it makes everyone a crochet star for that brief moment. Everyone is so proud of what they made or are wearing . It is thrilling to see how the audience will react to each crochet piece being worn while walking down the runway.. Everyone is always helpful especially if you need a safety pin or assistance changing into You can find me on: multiple outfits. I love bringing my designs to the show because I always get positive feedback and I can create www.willenacrochets.blogspot.com something that is unique and beautiful. www.facebook.com/Willena.crochets

Reviews Quick Crocheted Accessories (3 Skeins or Less) by Sharon Zientara Reviewed by Karen Thistle Sharon Zientara’s introduction to this collection emphasizes the value and virtue of hand-crafted items in our era of one-click immediacy. At the same time, she acknowledges that even crafters may not always have the time, money, or energy for lengthy, extravagant projects. Enter Quick Crocheted Accessories (3 Skeins or Less)! The featured designers offer something for every skill-level and taste, from plain crochet to elegant lace. Yarn for these projects runs from #1 Fingering weight to #5 Bulky weight yarn and there are patterns for hats, scarves, cowls, shawls, mitts, socks, and more. Most of the items include both written and charted instructions. The variety of lovely projects ensures you’ll find at least one to fit your mood or intention whether it’s for a diversion between larger projects, last-minute gifting, crocheting-on-the-go, or treating yourself to a little luxury.

Cover featuring Annulet Wrap Designed by Christina Mershon

Product Reviews

Images clockwise from top left: Garland Wrap Designed by Kathy Merrick Buttons & Lace Hat Designed by Sharon Zientara Long Winterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Scarf Designed by Brenda K.B. Anderson

Reviews Colorful Crochet Lace by Mary Jane Hall Reviewed by Julie-Sarah Desjardin

Published by Interweave, Colorful Crochet Lace by Mary-Jane Hall offers 22 crochet patterns in which crochet lace takes center stage. There is a definite French flair to this book, both in the photography and in the pattern names. Colorful Crochet Lace is a beautiful book. The layouts, photography, fonts and overlays all lend the book an absolutely elegant feel. \Beyond that though, and perhaps more importantly, the book includes a good variety of items that you’ll want to crochet, yes, but more than that, items that you’ll want to wear and use. The Au Naturel Cropped Top, and the La Fleur Doily Bag are two instant personal favorites. The Boutique Boléro would instantly become a wardrobe stable. The variety is notable: in this book you will find crochet tops, overlay skirts, shawls, scarves, bags and even a belt. There is something here for everyone. The garment patterns are sized to 2x and the yarns used are easy to find. You won’t have to break the bank to use this book! Each pattern is beautifully photographed and presented. A full page modelled picture is followed by a pattern introduction page which includes the full required materials list, notes, special stitches, and tips. Written instructions and crochet charts are included throughout.

As with most Interweave books, you can purchase a physical copy or a digital download. Title: Colorful Crochet Lace – 22 Chic Garments & Accessories Author: Mary Jane Hall Published by: Interweave/F+W ISBN: 978-1-62033-698-4

Product Reviews

Reviews Crochet for Christmas, 29 Patterns for Handmade Holiday Decorations and Gifts by Salena Baca Reviewed by Isabelle Barrette It is awesome! I personally really like to crochet accessories and amigurumis, so this book was right up my alley! It is also perfect for handmade last-minute gifts for Christmas, which letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s be honest, is coming way too fast! It contains 29 projects by 16 designers who are all presented at the end of their section which I thought was a nice touch. The projects are fun and varied; beanies, scarf, cozies, decorationsâ&#x20AC;Ś there is something for every taste and every skill level. Each project is nicely presented with plenty of photos by Kimberly Dierkhising and has clear and detailed instructions, making the pattern easy to execute. I tried the first pattern of the book, Silver & Spice Hood by Salena Baca and found it easy to read and quick to complete. My only problem now is my girls fighting over it in the morning to know who will get to wear it! Crochet for Christmas, 29 Patterns for Handmade Holiday Decorations and Gifts is published by Stackpole Books and is available in paperback for $21.95 which makes for a great Christmas gift.

Product Reviews

Patterns Santa Hat by Peter Franzi

Materials: Universal Yarn Co. Classic Chunky (3.5 oz. 131 yrds) 2 skeins Red, 1 skein White I hook or size required for gauge Yarn Needle 6” length of cardboard Gauge 13 sts and 8 rows = 4” Special stitches and Abbreviations Front Post Double Crochet (Fpdc) Yo, insert hook from front to back around post of indicated stitch, yo and pull up a loop, (yo and pull through 2 loops) 2 times. FLO Front loop only Hat (S, M, L) (Circumference approx. (18’, 20’, 22”) Hat is worked in rounds, joining at the end of each round. Do not turn after each round, unless otherwise noted on rnds 2 and (8,11,11) of Ribbing. Ch 4

Rnd 1: Ch 3 (counts as dc here and throughout), 11 dc in ring, join with sl st in 3rd ch of beg ch 3 to close ring. (12) Rnd 2: Ch 3, 2 dc in next st, (dc in next st, 2 dc in next st) around, join with sl st in 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (18)

Patterns

Rnd 3: Ch 3, dc in next 17 sts, join with sl st in 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (18) Rnd 4: Repeat rnd 3. Rnd 5: Ch 3, dc in next st, 2 dc in next st, (dc in next 2 sts, 2 dc in next st) around, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (24) Rnd 6: Ch 3, dc in next 23 sts, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (24) Rnd 7: Ch 3, dc in next 2 sts, 2 dc in next st, (dc in next 3 sts, 2 dc in next st) around, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (30) Rnd 8: Ch 3, dc in next 29 sts, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (30) Rnd 9: Ch 3, dc in next 3 sts, 2 dc in next st, (dc in next 4 sts, 2 dc in next st) around, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (36) Rnd 10: Ch 3, dc in next 35 sts, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (36) Rnd 11: Ch 3, dc in next 4 sts, 2 dc in next st, (dc in next 5 sts, 2 dc in next st) around, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (42) Rnd 12: Ch 3, dc in next 41 sts, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (42) Rnd 13: Ch 3, dc in next 5 sts, 2 dc in next st, (dc in next 6 sts, 2 dc in next st) around, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (48) Rnd 14: Ch 3, dc in next 47 sts, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (48) Rnd 15: Ch 3, dc in next 6 sts, 2 dc in next st, (dc in next 7 sts, 2 dc in next st) around, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (54)

Rnd 17: Ch 3, dc in next 7 sts, 2 dc in next st, (dc in next 8 sts, 2 dc in next st) around, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (60) Rnd 18: Ch 3, dc in next 59 sts, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (60) S Rnds 19-26: Repeat rnd 18. Rnd 27: Ch 3, dc in next 59 sts, join White with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (60) Cut Red Hot Passion. Proceed to Ribbing. (60) M, L Rnd 19: Ch 3, dc in next 8 sts, 2 dc in next st, (dc in next 9 sts, 2 dc in next st) around, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (66) Rnd 20: Ch 3, dc in next 65 sts, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (66) M Rnd 21-29: Repeat rnd 20. Rnd 30: Ch 3, dc in 71 sts, joining White with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (72) Cut Red Hot Passion. Proceed to Ribbing. (66) L Rnd 21: Ch 3, dc in next 9 sts, 2 dc in next st, (dc in next 10 sts, 2 dc in next st) around, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (72) Rnd 22: Ch 3, dc in next 71 sts, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (72) Rnds 23-29: Repeat rnd 22. Rnd 30: Ch 3, dc in 71 sts, joining White with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (72) Cut Red Hot Passion. Proceed to Ribbing. (72)

Rnd 16: Ch 3, dc in next 53 sts, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3. (54)

Ribbing Rnd 1: Ch 1, hdc in same st as joining, hdc in next (59,65,71) sts, join with sl to 1st st. (60,66,72) Rnd 2: Ch 1, hdc in same st as joining, hdc in next (59,65,71) st, join with sl st to 1st hdc, turn. (60,66,72) Rnd 3: Ch 3, dc in next (59,65,71) sts, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch 3, do not turn. (60,66,72) For rnds 4-11, there is no turning ch. Rnd 4: FPdc around beg ch 3 of prev round, dc in next st, (Fpdc in next st, dc in next st) around, join with sl st to 1st FPdc. Do not turn. (60,66,72) Rnds 5: (Fpdc in next st, dc in next st) around, join with sl st to 1st FPdc. Do not turn, (60,66,72) S Rnd 6-7: Repeat rnd 5. Rnd 8: (Fpdc in next st, dc in next st) around, join with sl st to 1st FPdc, turn. (60) Rnd 9: Ch 1, sl st in FLO in sm st as joining and around. (60) Fasten off. Weave in all ends. M, L Rnds 6-10: Repeat rnd 5. Rnd 11: (Fpdc in next st, dc in next st) around, join with sl st to 1st FPdc, turn. (66,72) Rnd 12: Ch 1, sl st in FLO in sm st as joining and around. (66,72) Fasten off. Weave in all ends. Pom-pon Wrap White 50 times around 6” cardboard, Remove from cardboard and, with separate 6” length of White, tie off around center of all loops. Cut ends of loops and trim for uniform length. Attach to end of Hat.

Patterns

Patterns Bronze Circle Earrings by Willena Nanton

Materials: 2 jump rings 2 earring wires Vanna’s Glamour Yarn by Lion Brand. – colors: Diamond, Copper, Bronze D or E hook Directions: NOTE: Do not join unless directed. Switch to a new color by joining at last sc of previous row. You will complete the first part of the sc and then loop the new color on hook and pull thorough remaining loops on hook. With Bronze yarn, Ch 2, Round 1: 6 sc in first ch. Round 2: 2 sc in each sc around. (12 sc) Round 3: With Diamond, sc in first sc, 2 sc in next sc, *sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc. Repeat from * to the end. (18 sc) Round 4: With Bronze, sc in first sc, sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc, *sc in each of the next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc. Repeat from * to the end. (24 sc) Round 5: With Diamond, sc in first sc, sc in each of the next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc, *sc in each of the next 3 sc, 2 sc in next sc. Repeat from * to the end (30 sc)

Round 6: With Bronze, sc in each sc around (30 sc) Round 7: With Copper, sc in first sc, sc in each of the next 3 sc, 2 sc in next sc, *sc in each of the next 4 sc, 2 sc in next sc. Repeat from * to the end (36 sc) Round 8: With Bronze, sc in each sc around (36) Round 9: With Diamond, sc in first sc, sc in each of the next 4 sc, 2 sc in next sc, *sc in each of the next 5 sc, 2 sc in next sc. Repeat from * to the end (42 sc) Round 10: With Bronze, sc in each sc around. Slip in next st and fasten off. Connect Jump ring and earring wire.

charity

Charity Focus Charity Crochet Exchange: Who We Are Part II As told to Aldonia Seccession This is Part 2 of the Charity Crochet Exchange interview. Part 1, Who We Are, was featured in the Spring/Summer Issue of Crochet Savvy magazine.

Kelly Nash My name is Kelly Nash, I have been an admin of CCE for two years or so now and couldn’t imagine working with a different group. I learned to chain when I was about 7 or so. I honestly can’t remember exactly who the family member was that taught me, I remember she was sitting in her chair and working on a project, I kept bothering her to show me what she was doing, so she reached into the bag at her feet and pulled out a box she kept her hooks and such in and pulled out a hook and found a small ball of peach yarn about the size of a softball and showed me how to chain. She said when I could chain that whole ball evenly she would show me the next step. I worked really hard on it, for a week or so and then as kids do I lost interest. I made my way back to crochet when I was about 25 or so, I learned the basic steps from books and then I got into YouTube videos. One of the big things I was looking for when I went looking for a group to join to try to make a difference with my crochet was they had to be willing to take a new crocheter, as I was not in any way advance with my projects and not all my squares were, well.. square. Rhonda and all the members welcomed me with open arms and I started my first project with CCE which was for Autism Speaks in 2012. I love working with CCE because while I can’t afford to really donate money to a cause I do have time, and yarn and with that and our other members

helping, I can help make a big difference. One of my favorite charities we have made afghans for is the MS Foundation. I feel a good bit of pride knowing that we were able to help them raise enough money with our first afghans for them in 2012 that they have now come back to us two years in a row to request afghans for their dinner auction. I love finding new charities and will take any advice or ideas from our members. It is really rewarding to find the small groups that we know can really use our help. I do other charity crochet as well, such as hats and baby booties for NICUs but CCE is my first priority and I hope to be part of this group forever.

Rachel B. Hi, I’m Rachel, co-admin of CCE and our east coast rep located in MD. I have been crocheting since i was about 7, and taught by my grandmother’s sister. I was always amazed to watch her crochet and make wonderful doilies. My first projects were designing my own Barbie doll clothes. I remember writing out my patterns on index cards and keeping them in a shoebox along w my small skeins and balls of pretty yarns. Have been busy w crochet, knitting and numerous other hand work ever since. I have found it to be very rewarding to crochet for charity. Being a member of CCE for the past year has opened up a whole new world of crafting for my family and has taught us some

wonderful life lessons. We have even been able to incorporate our various charity groups into our home-school lessons. And it is because of CCE that my 14yo son has learned to crochet. He has made some amazing flowers, some from patterns some designed himself as well as written a pattern for Alien Glittens. He won Grand Champion at the county fair this year for them.

Jen Warren Hi, my name is Jen Warren; I am a new admin in Charity Crochet Exchange. I will be serving in the area of merchandise. I am a full time mom with four teenage children at home. I work very part time as an RN BSN at the local hospital. My husband and I have our own home business, selling an anti-wrinkle cream that has proven results, Nerium. I started to crochet in 1989; a nursing friend taught me how to do a few basic stitches. My first project was a pink blanket for my daughter (Picture attached). This blanket project took me three years to finish. To this day she still loves that blanket and has asked me to make it bigger. I found Charity Crochet Exchange on Facebook a few years ago. I had no idea how to make granny squares at that time. I bought a book, practiced, and the rest is history. As questions arose, the group was always there to help me along. This was a very special group right from the beginning. It was small and everyone would talk on-line and help and support each other while making blankets for Charity. Very quickly we had a great group of ladies that became good friends. I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2004 and fibromyalgia in 2008. This wonderful group of ladies proved to be a great source of strength and support. In 2006 I was unable to work due to my illness. Crochet proved to be something that I could do to help take my mind off my limitations and pain.

I do crochet for many charities as well, hats for homeless, chemo caps, and NICU baby blankets. But I put this group first!! I love what we create and our leader, Rhonda Moore, puts together the most wonderful looking blankets. I am truly honored and blessed to be a part of this group. I am doing my first vendor show this month For Relay for Life, selling scarf â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, hats, baby blankets, kitchen towel, dish clothes and Nerium anti-wrinkle cream. Links: https://www.facebook.com/groups/charityprojects www.ravelry.com/groups/charity-crochet-exchange

Charity Focus The Peyton Heart Project As told to Aldonia Seccession

Jill Kubin, Founder of The Peyton Heart Project Q. What is The Peyton Heart Project? The Peyton Heart Project is a global mental health awareness campaign that was created in the summer of 2015 by Jill Kubin. Q. What made you decide to start this project? I wanted to create a random act of kindness movement that could potentially spread around the world. I wanted it to be a project that would raise awareness for suicide, bullying and mental health issues. So many people have been impacted by suicide and by mental health issues either through their group of friends or through their family. People seem to be able to identify with what the Peyton Heart Project is doing and that is what is making this project resonate with people around the globe. Q. What type of charity is The Peyton Heart Project? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a mental health awareness campaign. Q. What do you hope to accomplish by placing hearts in public places?

My goal is to raise awareness about suicide & bullying and to help end the stigma surrounding mental health issues on a global scale. Q. Besides placing hearts in public places what else does the Peyton Heart Project do to spread awareness?

Mental Health & suicide AWARENESS

We have a Facebook page, Twitter and Instagram account where people who find the hearts can post photos of their hearts and learn about our project. Q. Give an estimate how many hearts do you think have been scattered? Since our project is global and the people helping us are doing the scattering on their own, there is no easy way to keep track of the number of hearts that are being spread around the world. I can estimate though that there have been several thousand made and people are busy scattering them right now. Q. Donated to the cause so far? Hundreds of people around the world have messaged us asking how they can become involved in this project. We are now seeing hearts being found in Australia, Canada, Switzerland, throughout the US, etc. so we know there are many people helping us globally. Q. Which US states has The Peyton Heart Project touched so far?

All 50 US states and over 35 countries have people making and scattering our hearts. Q. Does The Peyton Heart Project have a mission statement? To raise awareness about suicide & bullying and to help stop the stigma associated with mental health issues. Q. Is there anything else you would like your readers to know? The Peyton Heart Project is named after Peyton James, a 13 year old who died by suicide in October 2014 after years of being bullied. I contacted Peyton’s family and asked them if I could name my project after Peyton because I wanted my heart project to have a story that connected to the core mission of my project. Peyton’s story is heart-breaking and although I never had the privilege of knowing him, I wanted my project to honor his memory. David James, Peyton’s father has been instrumental in helping me spread the word about the Peyton Heart Project and has even become a moderator on the Facebook page.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ ThePeytonHeartProject Twitter: https://twitter.com/PeytonHeart13

mother took on a larger role of dealing with the school. She called, emailed, and made several in person appearances. She went so far as to demand a meeting with the parents of one of Peyton’s tormentors.

Instagram: https://instagram.com/ sidewalksmilescampaign/

Q. From parent to parent what advice you give to another parent that has a child being bullied?

The Sidewalk Smiles Campaign ~home to the Peyton Heart Project~ P.O. Box 2374 Morristown, NJ 07962-2374

Parents have to take an active role if they suspect bullying. DO NOT expect much help from the school. In many states, bullying has become a criminal offense, and schools are hesitant to deal with it because of that. If the administration at the school will not act, go over their head immediately. Go to the superintendent’s office. If they don’t react, contact local law enforcement. You can also contact the local media, or if necessary, contact an attorney. School districts hate dealing with either. There are several anti-bullying organizations out there that will help parents.

https://www.facebook.com/ThePeytonHeartProject

David James, Peyton’s Father Thank you for writing this story. It is a difficult subject for many people to talk about. By educating others, we can save more lives. Q. Who was Peyton? Peyton was my son and my hero. He had so much to over come since the day he was born. He was 2 months premature, weighing in at just over 2 pounds. As he grew, he displayed an incredible energy and enthusiasm for life. He was a born entertainer and pleaser. He loved to make people laugh, crack bad jokes, and sing. He loved animals, anime, Dr. Who, reading, and video games. Q. When did the bullying start? The bullying started in elementary school. He had red hair, freckles, glasses, his ears stuck out, and he was small for his age. Add that to his personality, and he just became a target. Q. What measures did you take as a parent to help your son? Peyton’s mother and I were in constant contact with his school. Peyton and his mother moved to Round Rock before Peyton entered 5th grade. At that point, his

Q. What is Kindness Matters? That was started by Peyton’s mother You can contact her at kindnessmatterspj.gmail.com Q. Can someone order the kindness matters bracelets See Above.

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