modifying patterns ~ click here to comment January 18, 2020 14:15

WEEKEND INSPO

I can't help myself, modifying knitting patterns seems to be something I do all the time whether I am knitting my own pattern or someone else's.  It's something I like to do to give the project a signature, to make it my own. There's a wide range of what a modification is, it can be simply substituting the yarn or changing a stitch or ribbing, modifying the increases/decreases/BOs/COs, changing fit or adding stripes, to name a few. Here are two recent modifications I did: the first, substituting yarn and striping the Magpie Darling Hat; and the second, adding bling to the Canadian Slouchy.  

This is the new Magpie Darling Hat that I recently modified to accommodate WoolAddicts LOVE yarn for a client; it turned out so lovely I decided to offer as knit kits.  This light-weight version was inspired by a new customer who called me up excited about ordering some MDHs but the original cashmere versions were not in their price range.  They asked me if I had any other yarn choices I could kit up (they wanted to make a lot for gifts).  I knew I had some WoolAddicts yarn and the LOVE came to mind. Because the WoolAddics LOVE yarn was a different weight (fingering) than the original Bergere Cachmire yarn (sport), I knew I had to re-write the pattern to accommodate this modification; although the needle size didn't change, my gauge and sizing and overall feel of the hat were not the same. I quickly knit up a sample, revamped the pattern and got the new kits up in the shop!  Needless to say, they have been a hit.  I just love how the sparkle pops on the merino blend yarn and the light-weight of the fingering yarn makes this hat a year-around accessory.

SHOP THE NEW MDH

A few weeks later, I decided to make another light-weight MDH sample.  Some people always have socks on the go, I always have MDH on the go!  This time, I wanted to change things up, so I decided to stripe this version, and I love how it turned out.

Striping is a simple way to make something different and unique. Because the stripes are formed by the sequins, it's dainty, subtle and still keeps the integrity of the sparkle.  I hope this inspires you to stripe your MDH too, here are the instructions:

• Hold yarns A & B together for the CO and the broken rib brim.  
• After the brim is complete, alternate holding yarn A single and yarns A & B together, switch every 2 rounds.
• Repeat these 4 rounds until the hat is complete, and voila!

The second modification I recently did was add a little bling to a classic, the Canadian Slouchy.  When I originally cast on this blinged-out version I held the MC & Sequins together, but after knitting the sparkly brim I decided I wanted just maples leaves to shine; so, I ripped it back and started over, following the instructions as they are.  When I got to the maple leaf motifs, I added my bling!  In retrospect, I think sequins in all the red would have been pretty fabulous too. 

SHOP THE CANADIAN SLOUCHY KNIT KIT

Here are the instructions for the modifications:

•  Hold one strand each of MC & sequins when you follow the maple leaf motifs (or for all the MC parts).
• For this sample, for the maple leaves, I used mainly the intarsia colorwork technique.  I regret this, by the end of my final 2 maple leaves I had so many small balls of yarn going it was a crazy tangled mess, and then add sequins to the mix...I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy.
• My advice: use stranded colorwork for all the CC (white), meaning, you will use one ball of CC throughout that runs through the red.  Use the intarsia method for the MC (red) only, meaning you will have multiple balls of MC going at once and it will not run through the CC.
• When you are ready to add another ball of yarn, midway through a motif,  break the MC & Sequin yar combo about 150"/381 cm - 200"/508 cm in length,  this will be enough to finish the motif.

Let me know if you like to modify patterns and how you like to do it.  And, I love seeing your TCJ modifications, be sure to tag me on FB or IG: @amandakaffka @craftyjackalope #ShareyourTCJ 

new pattern // chaser pullover ~ click here to comment January 13, 2020 11:43

Happy #TCJMonday Everyone!

It is so snowy here in Vancouver, we woke up to a blanket of white and freezing weather; perfect timing for the release of Chaser Pullover!  This is a new pattern I designed at the end of last year and it just was released through BluPrint featuring their Cloudborn Sprightly yarn. 

GET THE BLUPRINT KNIT KIT HERE

Chaser Pullover is an oversized cozy sweater with some fun details, such as a seed stitch yoke, mock neck and elbow patches.  There are a few short rows, some three-needle bind-offs and basically, it's a seamless construction; knit in the round and flat.  It's a fun chunky knit with quick results.

The PDF pattern is also available in the shop, here.

And, on Ravelry, here.

i4earth, an initiative to give back ~ click here to comment January 10, 2020 11:55

Today I launched i4earth, an initiative to give back.  We need to do more than send thoughts and prayers to those who face devastating challenges; this year I will be focusing my efforts on environmental issues.  Although the charities I donate to will change from time-to-time, depending on the climate of the earth and the events that happen, currently, all donations will focus on the Australian bushfire crisis.  Contingent on how much is raised, the donations will go to one or all of these charities: wires.org.au    redcross.org.au    rfs.nsw.gov.au

For every product sold in the i4earth collection, a proportion of each sale will be donated to the featured charity listed above.  The more swag you purchase, the more money is donated.  There are 42 listings from t-shirts, sweatshirts, bags, tanks to tea towels; something for everyone!  Each item is decorated with a hand-illustrated image I created: TCJ logo, Yarn Source or Australian Flora.  All pieces are printed in Australia by an Australian company.  It was important to me, not only raise funds for Australia but, to support an Australian company.  

To shop the collection and to read more about these efforts, click here.

Have more questions? Visit the i4earth FAQ page for more info

I hope you love the designs and the products offered, together we can make a small difference.  And, if you don't want the swag but still want to help, I encourage you to donate directly to the links above.  All three charitable companies are very reputable.

Thank you, everyone, in advance to helps make a difference. xo

New Knit Kits // Magpie Darling Hats ~ click here to comment January 3, 2020 15:38

It's 2020 and my first Cast On and Cast Off happened to be one of my favorite projects, a super sparkly Magpie Darling Hat! 

Way back in April 2017 I designed this blinged-out hat that I thought no one would love as much as I do, I was wrong!  This hat has become one of my most beloved knit kits of all time and rightfully so!  It thrills me to bits that makers around the world were dazzled by this shiny sparkly hat and chose to make one for themselves, friends and loved ones!

Much inline with 2020 bringing change and evolution, it seems fitting that the MDH got a revamp.  Although I still offer the original MDH knit kits and pattern, this version has a few changes to give you more choice.  Let's be honest, the original MDH was a luxury project, this new one, although not cashmere, is a beautiful merino that's more economical, a great choice if you don't feel like spending a lot or you want to make a ton.  Other changes you will notice, the yarn is a lighter weight than the original making a soft fine fabric and this version offers 4 sizes: XS (S, M, L, XL).

The color range offered is quite extensive, giving you lots of choices.  Check them out and explore the possibilities!  What's your favorite color? The sample is color MOSS & Black/Rainbow Sequins in size S.

SHOP NOW

Happy New Year ~ click here to comment January 2, 2020 10:26

Happy New Year Makers! 

LOOKING BACK // I am grateful to have found my passion and be able to share it with the world.  I am grateful for all of you who follow me, support me, make my designs and get as excited as I do over knit kits and all knitting treasures! Thank you.  I always love love love seeing your TCJ projects, be sure to tag me #ShareYourTCJ on IG here or here.

SALE: black friday to cyber monday ~ click here to comment November 29, 2019 09:20

WoolAddicts ~ click here to comment October 21, 2019 13:28

Happy #TCJMonday Everyone!

Wow, it has been a long minute since my last post, just over 4 months.  As you can imagine, a lot has happened over the last months, including the biggest event of the year, Knit City!  I hope you are following me on Instagram, Facebook and/or subscribe to the newsletter, these are the places I post the most and where you can truly keep updated. 

Knit City 2019 has come and gone.  Mum and I worked so hard to create a fabulous shopping experience with new and exciting treasures in our booth.  And it paid off, our booth was so busy, both Marketplace days and we are thankful for all those who stopped by, shopped and said "hi".  We met so many wonderful makers so full of positive energy, it was a great and inspiring experience. 

For those of you who could not make it to Knit City, I am in the process of getting all the things up online.  This year was especially exciting, I brought in a new line of yarns and patterns, WoolAddicts by Lang.  This is a top-notch European company that puts out amazingly stylish and wearable patterns and an exciting range of beautiful yarns in different yarn weights, fibers, and textures.  Over the summer I had the pleasure of knitting a few of their patterns and trying out their yarns.  It didn't take long to fall in love with these pieces and I enjoyed making them! 

The yarn is spectacular and inspired a couple of new designs of my own, the Magpie Darling Scarf, a generously sized sparkle striped scarf with tassels. This pattern is currently offered as a knit kit and comes with the pattern, 4 balls of WoolAddicts WATER yarn and 1 ball of sequin.  There are 5 colorways to choose from.

Check out Dianne from Suburban Stitcher talk about the Magpie Darling Scarf and show her's in progress!  It's looking amazing xo

Solder Cowl is the other design that was inspired by the yarn.  Knit using a combo of WoolAddicts EARTH and sequins this is a fun and interesting knit.  Worked on the bias, and then in the round, the colors are essentially "soldered" together and fused into a fabulous accessory.

I highly recommend the WoolAddicts line of patterns and yarns.  Let me know what you think of the designs and if there are other designs in the WoolAddicts line that you would like to see offered as a knit kit!

Happy Knitting,
Amanda xo

Magpie Darling Hat SALE ~ click here to comment June 10, 2019 00:00

Happy #TCJMonday 

If you ever shopped for a Magpie Darling Hat, you will remember, the list was long!  There were SO many choices...too many choices?  Although I love all the Magpie options and have made multiples of each, I felt like it was time to clean house.  The solution, put some Magpies on sale!!! 

All SALE Magpies are now listed on a specific Magpie Darling Hat Sale page.  Currently, it includes all the Amore, Paillettes, Mohair Tweed, Sherpa, and 100% Cashmere Lana Gatto hats.  These gems are all discounted, once they are gone, they are gone.  If you love it, get it!

Like this Sherpa, Dk Grey with Black/Rainbow Sequin, there's only one left!

Happy shop-bling & knit-bling

Deep Vee Tee knit kits ~ click here to comment June 3, 2019 20:26

Hello,

I just wanted to share with you the new Deep Vee Tee Knit Kits that are now up in the shop!  Ooooh, this summer knit is one of my favorites and I know you will love it too.  

Each kit comes with 2-3 skeins of the beautiful SweetGeorgia Silk Fog yarn, PDF & Printed Frilly Collection Booklet (4 patterns) and a 100% Cotton TCJ Project Bag.

There are limited quantities, so grab one of these fabulous projects while they are here!  These knit kits are the perfect summer knit, and something you can whip up quick and wear right now!

Happy Knitting Everyone! xo

Grandes Manches Pullover ~ click here to comment May 15, 2019 08:37

I am so excited about this new knit kit, and I know you will love it too!

We are going ga-ga for the Grandes Manches Pullover.  It's one of those simple designs you can really make your own, and now it comes in a full range of colors with a ton of sequin options!  Its modest construction is great for the novice knitter or advanced pro. Whatever your level, this will be a fun project and trust me, you'll want to make one in every color. 

Below, is a Grandes Manches Pullover in color Jade with no sequins in size medium.  By not adding the sequins, the natural drape of the brushed alpaca creates more movement and drama.  Unlike traditionally spun alpaca, this brushed or blown alpaca is super lightweight and does not make a heavy fabric. The alpaca fibers are blown into a tight/strong nylon mesh which gives the final knitted fabric a fluffy texture with a bit of drape that won't fall out of shape; it's the nylon mesh that helps hold its form.

These knit kits come in a full 9-color range! You have choices, and I don't know how you're going to pick, probably best to get one of each ;)

This version, below, is one of my favorites, the color is Baby Blue with Silver/Silver Sequins shown in size Medium.  The silver really blends beautifully into the dusty pale blue and almost seems grey in some lights.  The twinkle of the silver sequins is divine.

Each knit kit comes with 4 - 5 balls of Chipaca yarn; a PDF and downloadable PDF pattern; 2 balls of sequins (optional, additional $20 charge); a limited edition old print TCJ backpack-style project bag (while quantities last). 

Spring Cleaning: how to wash your Uashmama bags ~ click here to comment March 25, 2019 11:28 1 Comment

Happy #TCJMonday Everyone,

Spring has sprung and it's time for a little spring cleaning...

 Three simple steps to help make your Uashmama bags look brand new again for this Spring season!

 ~ 3 instruction photos, courtesy of Uashmama Canada

Magpie Darling Hat Finishing Tips ~ Click Here To Comment February 18, 2019 11:48

Happy #TCJMonday All,

There is a lot of Magpie Darling Hat knit-bling going on right now, very exciting, and I wanted to share some finishing tips with you! You will need a pair of sharp Scissors, a Tapestry Needle, and a Pom Pom (optional). 

The first thing you will need to do is carefully cut the mini sequins off the yarn. I do this by cutting the sequins in half, making sure not to cut the actual thread.

Next step, weave in your ends.  Thread your Tapestry Needle to the bottom (cast on) thread (both threads at the same time).

On the wrong side of the hat, weave in the end, going up the purl bumps. Cut yarn. 

Thread the top of the hat end and with the right side facing, weave in a few times to make sure the top is closed and secure.

Bring the yarn to the wrong side of the hat and weave in a few times through the purl bumps.

If you want to add a pom pom to the top of your hat, bring the yarn back to the right side of your hat and either sew on a snap for your pom pom or leave the tail to sew the pom pom onto the actual hat after you block.  Usually there is a loop on the pom pom if there is no snap.

No one wants to wait for their hat to dry after wet blocking, so I suggest steam blocking!  Heat up an iron with water in it or a steamer, place the hat on a towel.

Using the steam function, start blasting steam through the hat, hoovering the iron or steamer just above hat. 

Be VERY CARFUL not to melt the sequins or the yarn the sequins are attached.  I have never had an issue with this and I get the heat pretty close to the sequins; but, please keep in mind, the sequins are plastic, 100% synthetic, and are delicate to heat. 

Steam/Iron both sides of the hat, until it lays flat.  You can follow the measurements as a guide.  If you want to make your hat bigger or slouchier, then be a bit more aggressive with your blocking. Let your hat cool. Snap or sew on your pom pom (if you choose to put a pom pom on it).

Wear and Enjoy! Happy Knit-bling Everyone! 

This sample is the Berger Pink & Copper/Rainbow Sequins

One last tip: the sequin yarn can get tangled easily; while knitting with it, keep it in a separate baggie, project bag or yarn bowl.  I like putting it in a baggie, so I can zip it up while I am not using it. 

More Magpie Darling Hat news & important information ~ click here to comment February 4, 2019 14:21

Happy #TCJMonday Everyone! 

It's been a whirlwind the last couple of days since the amazing Grocery Girls, Tracie & Jodi generously talked about the Magpie Darling Hat in the latest episode 72! Wow.  This is an important episode to watch addressing the inclusion of diversity conversation in our fiber community.  I wrote about my views on the subject, on Instagram, a few weeks back.  This is an important conversation to have, learn about and listen to.  The girls are right, it is not ok to just sit back and do nothing or say nothing.  It is not ok for people to not feel welcome in this community.  Knitting and making should bring us together, this is our family and we all need to do better to include everyone.  Follow @grocerygirlsknit @just_traci and @mrsbrownbags to be inspired.

You can imagine, the MDH's have been flying out of here, and they are selling out fast!  I have put knit kits up as PREORDERS for the ones I know are coming back SOON.  My hope, by this Friday, January 8th or latest early the week of Feb 11th. 

Here's some important MDH information:

• I will keep the Magpie Darling Hat product page up to date with exact dates of delivery when I get them. 
• If a listing is out, please request an email restock notification.  This is a great way to be the first to know when new stock is in.
• Because the list of MDH options is SO long, if a colorway is discontinued, I am deleting it!  This means if you ordered a knit kit and I have deleted it, your PDF link to the pattern will not work.  I know this is super annoying, so I apologize in advance. I am trying to email everyone who ordered a discontinued color with a PDF attached, but some of the earlier orders will not get this email.  Please, email me anytime and I am happy to email you a copy of the PDF pattern and if you supply your Ravelry Handle, I will also 'gift' a copy of the pattern to your Ravelry account/library: amanda[at]thecraftyjackalope[dot]com
• NEW: colors in SHERPA & MOHAIR will be in soon, keep checking back regularly.  As soon as I know a colorway is coming in for sure, I will list it as a preorder.
• NEW: Lang Paillettes in Grey/Blue w/ silver mini sequins knit kits are now up as a PREORDER.  This yarn will be in by Friday Feb 08th and orders will go out right away, by Saturuday Feb 09th, latest.

We all LOVE Sherpa this season, it's all about texture! New colors in the Sherpa Pisco & the Mohair Ingenua Tweed are coming soon!! As soon as I get confirmation on colors/qty, I will post as PREORDERS with a mid-Feb delivery.

If you like it, buy it, these hats are selling fast! I absolutely LOVE seeing your projects-in-progress and finished.  Tag me on IG @amandakaffka or @craftyjackalope or #shareyourTCJ and if you approve, I will repost on @craftyjackalope 

Happy Knit-bling! xo

More Magpie Darling Hats and a Sale ~ click here to comment January 28, 2019 00:00

Happy #TCJMonday All,

Of course, I have to open with, IT'S STILL Magpie Darling Hat MADNESS OVER HERE!!! Since I last blogged I have made a gazillion more MDHs, and I am not stopping anytime soon.  These glittery gems light up my days; having one on-the-go is a brilliant way to spark joy. The photo above shows the newest color to hit the line up: Navy Berger & Blue/Blue Sequin.

We all love the MGH for ourselves and as gifts, so I designed a mini version for the babies and children in our life; Mini Magpie Darling Hat.  These cuties are the perfect baby shower gift and will delight any child that receives one.  Also, matching your kid is always a great idea...seriously! The size range is from Newborn to age 9 - 10 depending on the head size.

Due to popularity, the MDH's never go on sale, but because Valentine's Day is just around the corner, I have a special Hot Pink MDH offer!  From now until January 31st, 11:59 pm PST purchase 2 Adult MDHs, the second being a Hot Pink one, and get 25% off the Hot Pink Hat!  Make sure to put 2 hats in your cart (at least one has to be Hot Pink) and use coupon code: 25HEARTS at checkout. Start shop-bling and take advantage of the sale!

Happy Knit-bling!

Magpie Darling Hat Shop-bling guide ~ click here to comment January 7, 2019 11:38

Happy New Year and Happy TCJ Monday Everyone!

I am so excited about these Magpie Darling Hats, I can't stop talking about them and showing off the sparkle!  These hats are super blingy, fun to wear and everyone loves them!  They are great to make for yourself, of course, but even better as a gift! They knit up quick and anyone who receives one will be thrilled! 

I have lots of choices and more coming in over the next few weeks.  This one is the cashmere & sequin yarn held together. It's ultra blingy and shows the strand of metallic throughout which the sequins are attached.  It is the original hat, a winner and comes in lots of different colorways. 

Added to the Magpie family, SHERPA! This one comes in a light Grey with silver/silver sequins.  This hat has a subtle twinkle and the texture is fabulous.  We all love Sherpa this season and this hat does not disappoint.

If you love texture, the Mohair Tweed is the hat for you!  This is ultra twinkly and has a beautiful fuzzy texture. This hat runs bigger than the original, so keep this in mind when choosing your size.

And finally, the 100% super soft Merino Lang Paillettes hat in Charcoal or Black is probably the softest version.  Yes, the cashmere is amazingly soft and luxurious, but the Paillettes is unique in that the sequins are actually already strung into the yarn; because of this, there is no metallic strand holding the sequins.  I love how the sequins speckle, shine throughout.  For this version, you will hold two strands of the merino together at the same time.

What is your favorite version?  I know it is hard to choose.  I have made over 15 Magpie Darling Hats so far...and I wear all of them (other than the ones I have gifted)!  Having the choice of which bling to brighten up my outfit brings a smile every time ;)

Sparkle Alert: Magpie Darling Shawl ~ click here to comment November 30, 2018 07:41

Hey Everyone,

Here in Vancouver, the rain has hit hard, all I want to do these days is hunker down and knit, what about you?

I am super excited to announce, The Magpie Darling Shawl PDF pattern and knit kits are now available!  If you didn't know already, I loooooove sparkles and so naturally, Magpie Darling Shawl was the perfect project to design.  Its simple construction, blinged out sequins and beautiful SweetGeorgia yarns, makes this knit a pure joy; perfect for the Holiday season...and, who am I kidding, year-round! Each knit kit comes with the pattern, a glittery ball of sequins and a skein of SweetGeorgia Yarns in either Bulletproof Sock, Tough Love Sock or Flaxen Silk Fine.  There is a curated selection of colors with limited quantities, so if you love it, get it.  And, there are a few Magpie Darling Hat knit kits left, another must make! Perfect for gift-giving.

A few weeks ago I went on an Industry Retreat, put on by the Knit Social Gals.  If you have never been on a "knit retreat," I highly recommend it.  The setting was gorgeous and it was amazing to be in the company of amazingly talented women.  Felicia from SweetGeorgia summed up the weekend so eloquently.  

And, if you want to be entertained and educated on all the newest and greatest knit swag, watch the Grocery Girls!  I had the pleasure of meeting Tracie for the first time, she was just as lovely and hilarious in person!

So, its time to seriously get a hold of your gift-giving projects, the Holidays are creeping up.  Here are some quick and easy projects to get you through.  This year I made a handy Makers Gift-Giving Journal which will help you keep track of all your projects and giftee measurements and needs, year-round (holidays, birthdays, events, charity deadlines).  

And, finish off your projects with a beautiful hang tag, it will take your gifting to the next level. 

Happy Knitting Everyone! xo

Magazine publications ~ click here to comment October 17, 2018 09:23

Hello Everyone,

This month has been pretty great.  Kicking off with Knit City, which was such a success.  Thank you to everyone who made it out for the amazing event, it was quite the fiber fest!  If you didn't get to attend this year, mark your calendars for next year: October 04 - 07, 2019. It's not to be missed. 

Also, exciting news, three of my designs are currently published in three magazines right now!! All three magazines are on newsstands now!!

I can't express how much of an honor to be included in these publications, it is truly a dream come true. Vogue Knitting Magazine Fall 2018 issue, Noro Magazine #13 and Knit Simple Holiday 2018, I am speechless.  And to be on the cover of Knit Simple!!! OMG! W-O-W!

Noro Magazine #13 Shawl no. 12.

Vogue Knitting Magazine Fall 2018 Lace Stripe Shawl no. 7

Knit Simple Magazine Holiday 2018 Lace Shawl no. 1

New offerings: a maker's gift-giving journal ~ click here to comment August 8, 2018 09:48

Hello Everyone,

Today is an exciting day, the Maker's Gift-Giving Journal pack is now available! This journal is full of note-taking space to get you organized! It has 50 interactive pages to keep you on track, start projects early and finish on time. Included are quick reference pages: needle/hook/yarn conversions;  yarn gauges; standard sizing; and knitting abbreviations.  

The pack includes

• 1, 50-page maker's gift-giving journal (5"/12.75 cm x 8"/20.25 cm).
• 5 gift hangtags with to & from info and care/fiber info.
• 5 ribbons (3 grey, 1 mustard, 1 teal).
• 5 removable pear-shaped stitch markers to fasten the hangtags with the ribbon onto your finished project.
• 1 mini pencil (white with @craftyjackalope or navy with The Crafty Jackalope ~ pencil selection is random).

The contents of the journal includes

• 1 Title Page
• 1 Interactive Content page.
• 6 pages of Event Calendar.
• 1 page overview of the people (10) and charities (5) you make for.
• 10 Giftee Details pages.
• 5 Charity Details pages.
• 17 Project Details pages.
• 1 page Needle/Hook/Yarn Conversions.
• 1 page Yarn Gauge.
• 5 pages of Standard Sizing.
• 1 page Knitting Abbreviations.
• 1 page End Notes.

Check out the product page to see detailed images of the inside pages.

Happy Knitting Everyone! Amanda xo

a quick look at filling out the pages of the maker's gift-giving journal ~ click here to comment August 4, 2018 16:44

Take a quick look at how to fill out the pages in the maker's gift-giving journal!

 This journal is super for keeping detailed notes on the people and the charities you make for.  Get organized, start projects early and never miss a deadline!

Important dates and links:
Pre-orders: August 05, 2018
Offical launch: August 08, 2018

In this video, I am wearing the Color Fade Shawl.
The Purple Newborn Hat pattern, free pattern knitting for charity.

a maker's gift-giving journal ~ click here to comment August 2, 2018 17:31

Hello Everyone,

I don't know about you, but for me, this summer has been nuts and it is time to get organized!  I am so excited to share with you the pre-launch of the newest product: a maker's gift-giving journal. Out August 8th, 2018 ~ Mark your calendars! 

 We all love the idea of knitting for friends and family or charities for specific dates, birthdays, and holidays, but in reality, it is hard to start early enough to make it enjoyable and it's simply hard to get organized.  I designed this journal pack to get us back on track; to manage our projects, the people & charities we knit/crochet for and our timelines.  Also included, super cute hangtags and a custom mini pencil, so cute!  I know you are going to love this journal packed full of excellent information and the perfect size to throw in your project bag; and, I love how the spiral-bound lays flat! 

There are so many great things about this journal pack.  Stay tuned, in the next day or so I will upload another video demonstrating how to fill out the pages and how this journal can work for you!

Happy knitting & crochetting! xo

Swatches ~ click here to comment June 4, 2018 16:46

Happy #TCJMonday Everyone!

May turned out to be super busy for me, and June doesn't seem to be slowing down! I have been invited to design a few pieces for Vogue Knitting, Knit Simple and Noro Magazine.  It has been an honor and a test of my speedy knitting ability (tight deadlines).  For all publications and design submissions, swatching is non-negotiable; as you can imagine, I have been knee deep in swatches...and let me tell you, I am not typically a swatcher. For a 'non-swatcher' the last month has actually been a really great exercise, and I have enjoyed the process.  There is something satisfying about putting together design proposals with swatches, illustrations and descriptions; usually I don't plan out projects to the degree, or at least not in this way.

If you're interested in proposing designs to magazines, it's important to keep them super professional looking.  I have been trained in Fashion Illustration, but recently I found a template that is a must for anyone, at any level of illustration.  It's called Fashionary.  I use the notebooks and the panels, all the time.  Even though I can draw, using the templates takes away one extra step and I am able to fully focus on the design and, not to mention, the consistency is a bonus.  Another tip, find the magazines/publications you want to design for and get onto their submissions emailing list, you will get an email every time there is a submission call.

Happy Knitting! XO Amanda 

Tell us what you think ~ click here to comment May 21, 2018 10:58

Happy #TCJMonday Everyone,

We are always striving to improve and deliver the best products & services to our makers!  Please, take this 3 - 5 minute survey and tell us what you think!

And, last week the new add-on came out for Bandana Love: Front Flowers #2. 

These add-ons are free with the purchase of the knit kit or pattern on the TCJ website or Ravelry.  If you already purchased the pattern, the new chart was already delivered!  

Next month, Front Stripes #3 will be added. 

It's the pattern that keeps on giving! 

Happy Knitting! xo ~ Amanda

Happy Mother's Day sale continues ~ click here to comment May 14, 2018 09:17

Happy #TCJMonday Everyone!

The Happy Mother's Day sale continues today until 11:59pm PST.  The sale was announced in yesterday's bonus newsletter; so, if you didn't hear about it, sign up to receive the newest TCJ news, coupon codes & promos!

For 15% off site wide, use coupon code BESTMA at checkout. 

For 25% all TCJ patterns & eBooks on Ravelry, use coupon code BESTMA at checkout.

Also, I am super excited to announce the new craftyjackalope Instagram account!  This account is all about you, the fans and the makers!  I am posting daily TCJ projects made by you!  Be sure to tag @amandakaffka or @craftyjackalope or #thecraftyjackalopedesigns to get noticed.

Happy Knitting Everyone! 

Amanda xo

Please vote for me ~ click here to comment April 30, 2018 00:00

Happy #TCJMonday Everyone!

I entered a FedEx contest to win a grant to expand the TCJ business and I need your help.  If you have a minute, can you please vote for me?  You can vote every 24 hours...if you feel so incline.  Every vote is appreciated it, and I thank you so much, in advance! xoxo

Click here to vote.

Also, it's almost May, if you can believe it, and there's lots to look forward to.  Sign up for the TCJ Newsletter and be the first to know about new projects and deals.  In May we have a new yarn offered in the Marled Madness knit kits;  cashmere is fabulous, of course, but this new tweed will knock your socks off, looks and price...in a good way! We have a new "add-on" for the Bandana Love pattern & knit kit: Front Flowers. And, it's May the 4th...so you know what that means...all the Star Wars patterns & knit kits will go on sale for one day! Mark your calendars!

And, we got the @craftyjackalope Instagram account up and running.  This account is exclusively all about you and the TCJ projects and knit kits you make!  Follow us and tag #thecraftyjackalopedesign or @amandakaffka or @craftyjackalope for a chance to be posted!  

Happy Knitting!