Possibly the most meaningful thing (to me) I have ever knit.

A few years ago when I was knitting stockings for my family I chose something 'fancy'. Something that was a bit of a challenge and really love the results. I opted not to make one for myself. I continue to hang the same stocking that has been hung on a mantle for the past 30-something years. It was made by my Nana, as was everyone's in my family (and extended family, and pets). It's simple, made with inexpensive yarn and felt. It isn't 'fancy' and it is christmas. 

I was and is important to me to make sure the tradition of handmade things continues for my family. I think that would have made my grandparents proud. The moment I found out that had a little niece or nephew on the way, I wanted to make sure I would be able to continue this tradition for them and their parents (whether they use the stocking or not isn't the point). I know what receiving this gift for my children would have meant for me. I hope it means the same for them. 

I remember my Nana always having her double-pointed needles on the go with some tinsel-laced yarn working on a stocking whilst chatting. I don't have my Nana to ask how exactly she made each stocking but I do have her tools, some of her needles are still in their original sleeves with their original price tag of a whopping .45¢

Attempting to reverse engineer my stocking wasn't necessarily difficult but it was daunting. I put a lot of pressure on myself to make it perfect, like Nana's. I counted and measured and swatched over and over until I was as close as I could get. I literally counted the stitches in a round and counted rows. And swatched some more, and finally committed to the needles and cast on. I have never checked and rechecked my work as often. 

I had this stocking finished months before I knew the baby's name. I had never attempted to embroider before! I don't have the best penmanship to begin with but I am really happy with how this turned out. 

I think I did my Nana's work justice and she'd be really happy to see her legacy continue. Each stitch was knit the same way, on the same needles as the originals. I'm really proud of this simple stocking for my much-loved niece. 

Blue moon Fiber Arts Rocking sock club

I first heard about Blue Moon Fiber Art Rocking Sock club a few years ago after Scribs brought me some of their Socks that Rock yarn back from a trip. It's delightful yarn! The sign-ups were closed that year and I vowed to join the following and then I forgot. Whoops! Finally I said, this would be the year. If you have no idea what I'm talking about, thats ok, I'll fill you in. It's a bi-monthly yarn club, they send at least 1 skein and 2 patterns and sometimes little bits and bobs. Sounds fun right? And the colorways are exclusive. Fancy! I'm into it!

This week I received my first shipmen! Check it out  After the Jump

Tied and Timber fiber arts

This ain't your grandma's macramé! My wonderful friend Janelle and her business partner Tarryn just launched their beautiful website Tied and Timber. They make really cool fiber art in Nashville, and even use natural dyes upon request! What could be better than a small business selling awesome decor that's made in America, and run by women! Bonus!

I've been drooling over their beautiful creations ever since I saw their first one! Here is the Tied and Timber Etsy shop. I would absolutely put one in every room! I'd love one for each of the kid's rooms once I get around to decorating.

1 2 3 4 5

The orb-hanger and the last black and white are my favorite! I'm not-so-discretly dropping hints around the house! I even have a hook in my kitchen ready to go.

Check 'em out and I'd love to know what's your favorite piece?


I am in no way compensated for this post, I just love sharing cool things in hopes that someone else will find something they love. I'll make it extra easy for you too, Web, Etsy, Instagram, Pinterest