Challenge

Piecework Magazine had a challenge in their May/June issue that was right up my alley.
They asked us to use directions they provided from Weldon's Practical Needlework Volume 10 (published in the 1800s) to complete a crochet project. Both projects were among those I had wanted to try anyway, so I decided to try my hand.
Instead of just making the item, I decided to create a complete clarified pattern translation into modern terms, using a smaller version, and providing several photos of the steps involved in a pdf.
I finished one of them today. I may or may not do the other, easier one another day. I am kind of melty-brained right now.
Who knows, if they like my work, they may ask me to consult with them in the future (at least the challenge mentioned that possibility).
I own all of the Weldon's books except volume 3, and also have several digital files of vintage needlework patterns (Yay Gutenberg Project!). I often go to them for inspiration in designing.
If Piecework is not interested, I will post the pdf here, and on Ravelry.

Old Skill regained

Although I have left many of my Ravelry groups since starting the book, I have not been able to tear myself away from Lisa Gentry's crochet list. (Lisa Gentry has very clearly written designs, for both knitting and crochet, and is currently the fastest crocheter in the world.)
I think I like the opportunity to use my crochet 'muscles' having knit for so many years straight. I learned to crochet when I was about 6 or 7, and crocheted for years thereafter but haven't done much of it this decade until recently.
March's project involves hairpin lace, something I haven't done since my teens.
It was really fun to pick it up again. The rocking motion of the frame as I turn it, and the motion of the hook as it makes that central stitch become very soothing, and automatic. Good for thinking about writing.

Tulips and Cat Bed

Oscar bought tulips for both of us, for Valentine's day. They are really cheering up the living room :-}

On another note, I was attempting to make a nice crocheted bag for holding yarn (designed by Lisa Gentry).
As sometimes happens when I try following a pattern, my hands went on and did their own thing. I think Buddha was subliminally urging me on to make a cat bed instead. I will make the yarn bag, it is a perfectly fine pattern. I'll just wait until there are no cats in the room.