Deep Vee Tee & LYKKE Interchangeables ~ click here to comment July 24, 2017 08:28

Firstly, my newest design is now up on Ravelry!! Deep Vee Tee.  It's knit with a beautiful 100% silk, Araucania Mana.  This top is full of delightful details, like the deep V in the back and frilly sleeve caps! I love how this top turned out, it was so fun to design and you will love knitting it!

Secondly, we had a fabulous response to the LYKKE 3.5" Interchangeable needles we added to the shop last week! WOW, no shocker but they are super popular!!  We have one faux black leather case left and I have a bunch of faux denim sets arriving this afternoon or tomorrow!

Put your orders in asap, before they sell out and I will get them in the mail by Tuesday latest.  FREE SHIPPING to USA & CANADA!

eeeeek, what a great Monday!  I hope I was able to bring you some joy!

How Hobbies Can Boost Your Mental Health and Help Fight Depression ~ click here to comment July 17, 2017 00:00

Guest post by Maria Cannon

Happy #TCJMonday Everyone! 

TCJ intro: There has been a lot of buzz lately about how knitting, hobbies and crafting help with depression and the positive benefits creating has on the brain for all ages.  I am a big believer in knitting/crafting as a form of meditative therapy to help manage everyday stresses, big and small and to increase concentration and build community.  In this day in age of electronics and mass amounts of information constantly bombarding us, it is important to take a minute to knit, crochet, craft or just create something handmade. 

Please welcome Maria as she gives us some great informative tips about why crafting is so great and how we can incorporate it into our lives:

If you're battling depression, anxiety, or simply not feeling like yourself and need a general mental health boost, there are a variety of remedies you may be prescribed. Among these, one of the best ways to improve your overall mental wellness without any sort of side effects is taking up a hobby, or immersing yourself further in something you love to do.

Hobbies provide a distraction

Whether you're fighting depression, on a recovery path from alcohol or drug addiction, or simply wish to rid yourself of bad habits, having a hobby provides a crucial distraction.

When you're depressed your energy levels can drop drastically, but the last thing you want to do when feeling down is to keep yourself from getting up. It's a physiological fact that activity fights depression, notes PsychAlive.org.

Hobbies are a top tier stress-buster

You don't need science to tell you that spending some time doing something you're interested in is a great way to reduce the stress of everyday life. Whether it's knitting, gardening, golf, or cooking - performing a hobby is a top-tier way to bust stress.

After three days, the researchers found that people who engaged in leisure activities were 34 percent less stressed and 18 percent less sad during the activities. Not only did they report feeling happier, but their heart rates were lower and the calming effect lasted for hours, says Shape magazine.

Hobbies get our brains working

Idle minds are unhealthy minds, and having a hobby is a good way to get your brain working.

Personal pursuits spark and satisfy our curiosity, get creative juices flowing, and exercise our problem-solving skills. This is why people who enjoy hobbies have a lower risk for dementia and depression, notes PsyWeb.com.

Hobbies provide a safe outlet

People need to dispel their energy somewhere, and without safe, productive hobbies, that energy can be expelled in unhealthy ways. Safety is one of the main reasons why having a hobby helps people with mental health issues. Of course, that emphasis on safety must extend to the actual logistics of the hobby itself. If your hobby is woodworking, for instance, it's vital that you focus on proper safety techniques when using the various equipment necessary for your hobby. Even knitting has some things to consider.

Whatever your hobby, it's going to be of great benefit to your overall mental health as long as it's a healthy one. By providing a distraction, giving you a sense of purpose and accomplishment, and giving you a safe outlet to manage life's stressors, hobbies are a vital tool in the battle against mental health issues, mental fatigue, and boredom.

Photo Credit: Pixabay.com

About the Author

Maria Cannon.  Photo below is Holly, the beloved Dachshund.

sewing on the Prismatic Anywhere Cowl tassels ~ click here to comment July 06, 2017 11:29

Ahhh, there is something so satisfying about finishing a project; not just Casting Off, but really finishing, like blocking, sewing in the ends and adding all the final touches! This Anywhere Cowl  was bright & cheerful, the perfect knit to bring in the summer.

If you're making the Prismatic Anywhere Cowl, I posted the modifications on last weeks blog.  Here are some more tassels tips:

After Blocking, I marked out 24 spots using removable Stitch Markers on the side I wanted the tassels. 

Note: Because I prefer the blue (Sapphire) color which I started with next to my face, I chose to place the tassels on the green (Basil) color which I ended with.

After marking out the tassel spacing, I threaded the tail of the tassel using a small sharp tapestry needle and whip stitched the tassel on in a few rounds, ending on the wrong side.

On the wrong side, I made a little knot.

Then, I fed the needle down the towards the tassel fringes.

And then I cut the tail the same length as the fringe to blend it in!

And there you have it, repeat those steps, 23 more times!

I would love to see your Anywhere Cowls, please post,  tag me & use hashtag: #anywherecowl 

Prismatic Anywhere Cowl Modifications ~ click here to comment June 28, 2017 08:59 2 Comments

A work in progress but some of you have already received your Prismatic Knit-Kits and I know you are itching to Cast On!  The Prismatic Mini-Skein Set is made up of 12 colors about 50 yards/45 meters each which makes a total of 600 yards/540 meters total, about 100 yards/meters more than the original Party of Five Mini-Skein set; this means there is room to play! 

I thought tassels would be a unique and fun addition to the Anywhere Cowl in this beautiful Prismatic rainbow gradient; it is the first thing to make before Casting On.

Mini Tassels (make 24, 2 in each color)

• Cut a 12"/30.5 cm piece of yarn.  Put aside.
• Loosely wrap yarn around 2 fingers, 10 times. Cut yarn.
• Slip wrapped yarn off fingers and thread the 12"/30.5 cm piece of yarn through the loop of the wrapped yarn.
• Center the 12"/30.5 cm piece of yarn and make 2 knots securing the loop; this will be the top of the tassel. You now have 2, 6"/15.25 cm pieces of yarn at the top of the tassel.
• Using one of the 6"/15.25 cm pieces of yarn, wrap it around the tassel about 0.25"/0.75 cm down from top of tassel. Secure with a knot and cut to the length of the tassel.
• Cut the loops on the bottom of the tassel (do not trim until blocked).
• I know it may sound silly but, wet block the tassels!
• Once dry, trim the ends evenly.
• Once you are finished knitting the Cowl, using the other side of the 6"/15.25 cm piece of yarn at the top of the tassel, sew evenly onto one side of the cowl, placing the tassels about 1.75"/4.5 cm apart (divide your circumference measurement by 24)
• Color order: *(Beach House, Sapphire, Empress, Grape Jelly, Raspberry, Cherry, Cayenne, Pumpkin, Dutch, Saffron, Pistachio, Basil), then repeat *

Set the tassels aside until the Anywhere Cowl is complete.  I casted on the same amount of stitches as the original pattern called for. Because I already made my tassels I don't have to worry about saving yarn for them; I can knit the Anywhere Cowl up just the same as the original, not worrying about a specific round start or where my colors end. 

Color order

• Cast On: Beach House
• Sapphire
• Empress
• Grape Jelly
• Raspberry
• Cherry
• Cayenne
• Pumpkin
• Dutch
• Pistachio
• Bind Off: Basil

Any color combo would be amazing! Have fun and I can't wait to see your versions!

Unicorns, Anywhere Cowls & Yarn Bowls ~ click here to comment June 20, 2017 19:32 1 Comment

As I was completing an Anywhere Cowl in SweetGeorgia Party of Five Mini Skein set in color Swell I was dreaming about the next one, wondering where it could take me..........

Swell took me to the beaches of the Caribbean...with each knit-one-purl-one stitch...........

A few weeks ago, I picked up SweetGeorgia's newest mini skein set, Prismatic which is made up of 12 beautiful rainbow gradients; the color is bold but I am not scared! At first, I had the notion of design something new with it, but every time I played around with the colors I kept wondering what it would be like knit up as an Anywhere Cowl.

Tonight, I am Casting On!  Because there are more colors and ultimately a bit more yardage I made 24 (2 of each color) mini tassels which I will attach to one side of the cowl.

~ make unique ~

I made the tassels first so I don't have to worry about saving extra yardage for later; I can knit freely, without a stitch marker, adding the new colors as the old ones run out.

Prismatic makes me dream of Unicorns...have you ever wanted to meet one? 

We are now offering PRE-ORDER Prismatic Anywhere Cowl Knit-kits in the shop! Free shipping always.

And, speaking of unicorns, my talented ma made a few exclusive Unicorn yarn bowls!! WHAAAAT?! Yes, that is right...UNICORN YARN BOWLS! Check them out on the Etsy site, TalkingClay, here!

new pattern/knit-kit: anywhere cowl ~ click here to comment May 29, 2017 08:30

Happy #TCJMonday

Guys, I am so excited about this new SIMPLE pattern/knit-kit I designed for anyone looking for a chill project this summer!  So many of my friends, family & students travel and they are always seeking no-brainer knit projects to bring with them that don't take up too much room mentally or physically.  They kept asking me to come up with the ultimate project they could take with them to the poolside, flights, road trips, or even just a relaxing project they could knit between their hectic schedules and at social events.  Thus, through my own experience, talking with you all, and being inspired by SweetGeorgia Yarns, Anywhere Cowl was born; a project you can literally knit "anywhere!"

I put together some Knit-Kits which come with a SG Party of Five Mini Skein Set in the color of your choice and the Anywhere Cowl pattern (instant Download).  The color choice is extensive; the brights, ombre and stripes screamed summer and of course I couldn't leave out the neutrals. 

The sample shown is knit out of color Waterfall. 

Already have yarn? No problem, this pattern is a FREE download on Ravelry! You will need 5 colors x 105 yards/96 meters each or 525 yards/480 meters total of a Fingering/Sock/4ply Weight yarn... But honestly, this pattern is so chill you can do whatever you want; more stripes, a solid, more yardage...................... The possibilities are endless, and that's the way we roll in the summer!

a sale and calling all test knitters ~ click here to comment May 15, 2017 03:00 2 Comments

Happy #TCJMonday!

It was Mother's Day yesterday and to honor & celebrate all the amazing Ma's out there we had flash sale 50% off all TCJ patterns on the Ravelry store!  I decided to extend the sale one more day!  Use coupon Code: MAMA17 at Ravelry check out. Sale ends Monday, May 15th, 2017 at 11:59pm PST.

If you follow me on FB or IG, you might have noticed I was away this last week on a well needed vacation!   Ahhh it was bliss.......  While away we shot the new collection; and, despite the hot sweaty weather and early mornings we were able to capture the vision!  Next step, Test Knitters!  Test Knitters are an important part of the publishing process, if anyone is interested in Testing any of the pieces, please write in the comments and send me your email by clicking on the post title or email me directly at: amanda @ thecraftyjackalope [dot] com (no spaces). 

Here are a few details:

• This 7 piece collection has 1 shawl (Sport, DK or Worsted), 1 bandana (chunky), 1 pullover (bulky), 2 cardigans (1 chunky, 1 bulky), 1 cowl (bulky), 1 shrug (chunky). 
• Timeline will be about 3 - 4 weeks depending on piece (open for negotiation).
• The original yarn used is all from Wool And The Gang, but I am not picky about yarn choice and I am open to most anything (natural fibers preferred). I can work with you on yarn choice. 
• If anyone wants to use SweetGeorgia Yarns, I will be offering a 25% off discount (color choice might be limited).
• All Test Knitters will receive a final copy of the eBook through Ravelry.

A sneak peek into the lastest collection ~ click here to comment May 01, 2017 09:08

Happy #TCJMonday

It's been awhile since I last blogged.  Usually when I don't blog as often it means I am knee deep in a project with heavy deadlines.... Keeping up with blogs when the projects are secret is sometimes a challenge...today I will let you in...

Last year I started working with WOOL AND THE GANG, I designed 2 pieces and they sponsored a yarn giveaway: Peppercorn Pullover & Bestie Bandana.  Well, as you can imagine, I fell in love with their yarn and these two pieces turned into a collection... which keeps growing (a perfect excuse to keep working with their yarns).

2 pieces turned into 8: 2 cowls, 1 pullover, 2 cardis, 1 shrug, 2 shawls.  It can be daunting at times to design a full collection; with all the projects and teaching in between, the process seems to always take longer. Then suddenly it clicks, ideas start to come together, designs start happening and opportunities open up; before you know it a crazy deadline is set and your knee deep, at a point of no return. 

Deadlines: there is nothing like a vacation planned to Hawaii to get your rear into gear.  Once we decided on Hawaii, I knew I wanted to do the photoshoot for this collection there; defying all theories that knitwear, wool and hot summer weather do not go hand-in-hand, I knew this was the place.  If you want to see the inspo for the Hawaiian photoshoot, check out my pinterest board here.  I am teaming up with Shok Designs jewelry and styling the shoot in Free People...think Boho Beach. 

I can't think of a better way to spend my summer days & nights than knitting on the beach, can you? This new collection is simply to inspire just that!

PS: for more sneak peeks, follow me on IG or FB.

PSS: if you already purchased Peppercorn Pullover or Bestie Bandana, don't worry, you will get the opportunity to purchase the full collection at a discounted price, more details to come.

Say "yes" to the Magpie Darling Hat ~ click here to comment April 11, 2017 07:54

If you need a little sparkle to brighten your day I would suggest casting on the Magpie Darling Hat.  These new cashmere hats with metallic/sequins have just the right amount of shimmer...a lot!

These knit-kits are selling out fast; since posting last Friday, only 4 are left (in black)!  The knit-kits come with 2 balls of high quality 100% cashmere & metallic/sequin yarn & the Magpie Darling Hat pattern.

~ twinkle ~ glimmer  ~ panache ~ zap ~ glitz ~ dazzle ~ flicker ~

Capital Cowl Version 3.0 Knit-kits are here! ~ click here to comment April 03, 2017 00:00

Happy #TCJMonday

A new season means new offerings!  Today I am excited to share with you the Capital Cowl Version 3.0  I am particularly fond of this version; just like the transition to spring, this version is the perfect piece to shift from chilly nights to warmer days. 

The Capital Cowl has gone through many versions, each time getting better & better!  I love sourcing new and exciting yarns to redesign this classic!  We have prepared beautiful Capital Cowl Version 3.0 knit-kits; each kit comes with 3 balls of the softest cotton/merino blend yarn sourced from Italy & the pattern (needle option & purchasing single balls are also available).  The yarn itself has a stunning halo, it's light, airy and not as hot as the original alpaca/wool blends of the past.

Not only do we love the content of the yarn, but the slightly variegated splashes of contrast is spectacular! 

We have 3 colors currently in stock: cream (cream base w/grey swirls - sample); black/cream (black base with cream swirls); black/blue (black base with blue swirls).

If you're looking for a quick and simple project, this is the one for you!

Free shipping always!

New Portobello Cowl V2 Knit kits ~ click here to comment March 20, 2017 00:00

Happy #TCJMonday & Happy SPRING!!

We added 4 new colorways {limited quantity} to the Portobello Cowl V2.0 Knit-kit range! I was shopping at SweetGeorgia the other week and these colors popped out at me...yelling "SPRING!" 

The new colors include: Peachy warm & cool.................

Teal

Gelato

Also, if you haven't noticed, a few of the other colors are ON SALE! 20% off {no coupon needed}! And, of course, FREE SHIPPING ALWAYS!

new products - essential must haves ~ click here to comment March 13, 2017 07:37

Happy #TCJMonday

I know, that you know, that I love small scissors; little mini tools simply delight me.  Who doesn't need a pair mini stork, or "storklettes" scissors in their tool kit or project bag? I keep a pair in my wallet.

I am enamored by detail, modern lines and of course their high quality; super sharp, TSA approved and only 2.5" long. What's your favorite color? Pink. Green. Silver. White.

Pom Poms: they make any hat look super chic! 

These high quality, faux fox fur pom poms are plush and have great detail that make them look so real! 

4 neutrals to choose from: Grey (above image), Cream, Brown & Black. 

Happy International Women's Day & GIVEAWAY ~ click here to comment March 08, 2017 11:08

Happy International Women's Day! Today is especially special because it's my birthday, which I think is so very cool!  My mother raised me strong and confident and I believe I can achieve anything...most days! 

Because we are celebrating women...and my b-day I am doing a Giveaway on Instagram.  Follow me @amandakaffka to enter.  Heart & tag a friend on the most recent giveaway (March 08th, 2017) post. 

I am giving away the book: The Crafty Jackalope Vol.01 ~ Yarn to two followers; 1 hard copy (you) & 1 eBook (tagged friend)!  Winners will be announced on Friday March 10th, 2017 at 5pm PST. Good Luck!

Also, for all those who said you can't, let me tell you, YOU CAN!

Barnyard Buddy Balls ~ click here to comment March 06, 2017 16:15

Happy #TCJMonday Everyone,

If you missed the IG & FB posts about the Barnyard Buddy Balls pattern release out in the newest publication of 60 Quick Knitted Toys, here is a closer look! 

The Barnyard Buddy Balls were super fun to design; these simple bunnies & piggy's are full of charming details, like, check out the cutest part, their tails!

Piggy Ball

Bunny Ball

You can purchase this book from the Ravelry link or directly on Amazon.  There are 42 super cute designs that will delight!  All the patterns were knit from Cascade Yarns.  The Barnyard Buddy Balls were specifically knit out of Cascade 220 Superwash Effects.

Be sure to link us on your Barnyard Buddy Balls projects, we would love to see your versions!

all images: Copyright © 2017 Sixth&Spring Books

T.G.I.F. let's party, and by that I mean knit! ~ click here to comment March 03, 2017 10:10

It's Friday!  For some, the work week is coming to a close and the weekend festivities are about to commence! It's raining here is Vancouver (thankfully not snowing...) and all I can think about is yarn & knitting!  I went to SweetGeorgia's yesterday and picked up some beautiful yarn to stock up the shop!  One of my favorite parts of the business is shopping for amazing yarns to turn the patterns into knit-kits; shopping for yarns to developing new patterns & knit-kits; shopping for great new accessories and must-have tools!  There is lots to come this Spring, just you wait! 

You wont have to wait for the Color Fade Shawl Knit-Kits though!  I just posted 5 beautiful colors to choose from {limited quantity...just saying}.  Sample shown in color Hanami: PINKS. Each Knit-kit comes with the Color Fade Shawl Pattern & a box of the stunning SweetGeorgia Party Of Five Mini-Skein Yarn Set in the color of your choice.

What's your favorite color?

sale love for everyone ~ click here to comment February 14, 2017 00:00

Happy Valentines Day Everyone!

Some of you are in relationships, some are not but here at the Crafty Jackalope, we want to send our love to each and everyone by giving the gift of a SALE!

We made some markdowns to make room for new and exciting things to come over the next few weeks/months!  Spring/Summer is around the corner and we have some breezy-light-weight projects up our sleeves!

All our Knit-Kit Cowls are on sale...even the Bestie Bandana & the Portobello Cowl!!

The Free Love Slouchy Hat is also on sale!!!

Take advantage of these great deals. If you start now, and are fast these pieces will bring you into Spring, or if you take your time they will be ready for next season.... Fashion Forward

Free Shipping ~ Always

Chunky Collection Patterns are now available ~ click here to comment February 13, 2017 08:48

Happy #TCJMonday

Valentines Day is just around the corner, like tomorrow, and today happens to be Family Day (if you live in BC, Canada) and The Chunky Collection patterns are now available, what a great start to the week! 

If you want to spread your heart: wear your heart on your sleeves & the love on your back, Pilot Pullover sends a powerful message of unity, love, inclusion.

If you don't already have super bulky yarn in your stash to make this, I highly recommend splurging on the kit.  It comes with 10 balls of the softest 100% merino yarn from Italy that you have ever felt; cashmere quality!

Little Bomber Cardi

This beauty has stunning details that flatter.  I wear this Cardi as a jacket and a sweater.  The pill-factor, is practically zero! The shed-factor is non existent! This Cardi would look nice in any super bulky weight, but you really can't beat the 100% merino that comes in the kits!

Rusted Shawl

This squishy, light-weight chunky shawl is just what you need for the cool nights and wintery days.  It just snowed last week and Rusted Shawl kept me warm and cozy! There are tons of vibrant colors and strong neutrals to choose from in the knit-kits.

Little Tank is the perfect layering piece. 

I wear this over t-shirts, long sleeves, shirts, and bandeaus!  I think I really need one in every color! Quick knits, get the kit!

Vancouver Yarn recommended newsletter sign up ~ click here to comment February 06, 2017 00:00

Happy #TCJMonday

There's a new newsletter geared towards Vancouver's and surrounding areas knit/fiber scene, and I highly recommend that you sign up for it! Even if you are not a Vancouverite, you will enjoy receiving this newsletter, it is packed full of knit, textile and fibery things!

Janna created Vancouver Yarn back in 2008, and serves as Vancouver's textile industries directory listing LYS, along with fiber/textile based shops, local designers and fibery happenings around town.  Just last month, Vancouver Yarn has expanded into a solid monthly newsletter that brings all the textile/fiber/knit current events around town and local designer updates right to your inbox in an inspiring and exciting way! You can expect to receive a newsletter the first Wednesday of every month which includes Janna's picks of upcoming workshops in town, a rundown of known events, featured Instagram and Pintrest posts, and a classifieds section. 

I can't think of any other place to get this comprehensive and inspiring info! Thanks Janna for the features and for putting this together!

becoming a professional knitter ~ click here to comment January 30, 2017 10:01

Happy #TCJMonday

There has been a lot of chatter and curiosity lately about "how to become a knitwear designer."   Last week Robin Hunter, a Canadian Knitwear designer, interviewed me on her blog about my inspirations, insights on the biz, about my processes and advice for becoming a professional knitter.  Each week Robin interviews a different designer; same questions, each story so different and fascinating!

I remember sitting in a Trisha Malcolm, editor of Vogue Knitting Magazine, lecture at Vogue Knitting Live in New York in 2012; she was direct, insightful and had a wealth of information for us eager knitters who were considering quitting our day jobs. One thing she said really stood out; it was an important question to consider and ask yourself if you are truly interested in becoming a knitwear designer fulltime: I know I love to knit, but why do I love to knit.  Will I still love to knit if I have to knit to make a living?  Will I be OK with the fact that I won’t be knitting simply for enjoyment anymore? 

For most of us, knitting starts off as a hobby, it may even turn into a hobby that generates some income on the side, but it is still a passionate craft that is not a full-fledged business.  Once you decide to make the leap, from hobby/enjoyable knitting to quitting your day job to work as a fulltime knitwear designer, it changes; now, knitting has to produce an income that needs to support you, this is a lot of pressure! Although, I knew in my hearts-of-hearts being a professional knitter was for me, Trisha made ask the question of myself, and made me think of the realities about the next move. It is a serious question that I recommend anyone considering making the move ask.

Because of the internet, it is really easy to become a professional knitter; but, it not easy to get noticed and to generate a steady income.  It takes an enormous amount of work and time to make a name for yourself and to get the recognition, reputation and following.  I am always having to think outside the box and try new strategies to keep the income coming in while also keeping up with designing output.

I invite you to join the conversation about your experiences, and I am open to your questions and comments about becoming a professional knitter. 

the chunky collection is now available! ~ click here to comment January 23, 2017 09:49

I am so excited to share with you all the launch of The Chunky Collection!  I have been teasing you on social media for a month, and now it is finally here! Pre-order your knit-kit now for a mid-February delivery.

This collection was so much fun to design; I really wanted to create chunky pieces that were more fitted, flattering and less bulky or heavy than the chunky knits we have seen or made in the past.  I wanted to design pieces that you would actually wear!

Pilot Pullover is my favorite piece, the timing couldn't have been better.  What can we do to carry forward the momentum of the global March? Wear a heart on our back and on our sleeves!  Wouldn't the hearts be fabulous in bright PINK!  We need to nurture LOVE, EQUALITY, POSITIVITY, and kill them with KINDNESS, what better way to do this than to knit and wear a Pilot Pullover!

If you are wanting to knit a smaller piece, the Little Tank is for you!  I think of this Tank as a layering piece, almost vest-like.  It looks great styled over a long-sleeve shirt, t-shirt or even a bandeau!

Another smaller piece is the Rusted Shawl.  This simple-to-knit accessory is a great everyday staple. I love this squishy cozy shawl.

Another favorite is the Little Bomber Cardi.  Again, not too bulky, not too heavy, this cardi can be worn as a jacket or a sweater.  It's beautiful cable, and purl stitch details make it stand out.  The shawl collar can be worn up or down.   This piece is versatile and stylish and a piece you will wear a lot!

The yarn.  Oh my goodness, the yarn.  First of all, I have to say it is the softest 100% Merino from Italy I have ever felt; knitting with it was simply joyful!  Secondly, when I design I do a lot of "frogging" and "tinking" I rip out A LOT...this yarn holds up!  I have yet to see any pilling, after being pretty rough, the yarn looks new!  AND, thirdly...there is absolutely NO shedding! Ya, that is major, you can wear these pieces over your black suit, shirt, pants and it will not leave evidence that you are wearing a sheep! win ~ win ~ win. 

Currently, The Chunky Collection comes as a knit-kit {yarn & pattern}.  Each kit comes with enough yarn to make the piece you choose and the pattern.  Additional needles & notions (stitch markers & stitch holders) do not come with the kits.  We have a ton of colors to choose from: from brights to neutrals; there is something for everyone.  Also, remember all our prices are in CAD$ and we offer FREE SHIPPING ALWAYS!

Patterns will be available to purchase soon, but I highly recommend knitting these pieces in the yarn that comes with the kits, you will love it!

PRE ORDER YOUR KNIT-KIT NOW for a mid February delivery! Free Shipping!

#thepussyhatproject Women's March on Washington ~ click here to comment January 09, 2017 10:08

When you ask knitters to knit for an important cause, usually we deliver, and we deliver BIG; best current example is the #pussyhatproject

Everywhere you look on social media these days you see #pussyhatproject posts about the Women's March on Washington January 21st, 2017.  Washington is not the only place to march, major cities across USA & Canada are joining in to march as well.  The Pussy Hat Project was inspired to create more of a voice and to create a powerful visualization of the importance of the march. 

 As loopy Mango so eloquently put it: "At its core, this project is about creating a form of representation for those who cannot be there, developing connections between people who care about women’s rights, and creating a framework for community and personal agency from the local to the national level. 

This project aims to:

1. Provide the people of the Women's March on Washington D.C. on January 21, 2017 a means to make a unique collective visual statement which will help activists be better heard.
2. Provide people who cannot physically be on the National Mall a way to represent themselves and support women's rights."

There is only 12 more days until the march, if you don't have time to make a #pussyhat and send it to Washington, think local.  Check out your LYS, a lot of them are on board and will collect the hats to distribute to the marchers in their local city.  If you can't march, this is a great way to get involved!

So far I have made 3 (plus more to come) hats for my friends who are marching in Vancouver, BC Canada.  There are a ton of patterns around but here are my hacks I want to share with you:

Super Bulky Version:

110 yards/100m of PINK super bulky yarn (8 st gauge).
10mm (15US) 16"/40cm circular needle.
10mm (15US) spare needle for Three Needle Bind Off.
1 St marker.

Cast on 42 sts, place marker and join in the round, careful not to twist.

Broken Rib
Round 1: *(K1, p1), repeat * around.
Round 2: Knit around.

Repeat rounds 1 & 2, once more.
Repeat round 1, once more.

Continue in St-st (knitting all rounds) until piece measures 7"/18cm - 8"/20cm from cast on edge.

Flip inside out.  Using the spare needle close the top and bind off using Three Needle Bind Off technique. Weave in ends, lightly block. Wear it proud!

Chunky Version:

120 yards/110m of PINK chunky yarn (12 st gauge. Sample show with 2 worsted weight yarns held together).
6.5mm (10.5US) 16"/40cm circular needle.
6.5mm (10.5US) spare needle for Three Needle Bind Off.
1 St marker.

Cast on 64 sts, place marker and join in the round, careful not to twist.

Broken Rib
Round 1: *(K1, p1), repeat * around.
Round 2: Knit around.

Repeat rounds 1 & 2, once more.
Repeat round 1, once more.

Continue in St-st (knitting all rounds) until piece measures 7"/18cm - 8"/20cm from cast on edge.

Flip inside out.  Using the spare needle close the top and bind off using Three Needle Bind Off technique. Weave in ends, lightly block. Wear it proud!

Stashbuster Chunky Version:

120yards/1010m of a mix of PINK whatever you have (sample shown with a 2 dk's & a fingering weight held together...when you run out of a color, just start adding a new strand of something else).
6.5mm (10.5US) 16"/40cm circular needle.
6.5mm (10.5US) spare needle for Three Needle Bind Off.
1 St marker.

Cast on 64 sts, place marker and join in the round, careful not to twist.

Broken Rib
Round 1: *(K1, p1), repeat * around.
Round 2: Knit around.

Repeat rounds 1 & 2, once more.
Repeat round 1, once more.

Continue in St-st (knitting all rounds) until piece measures 7"/18cm - 8"/20cm from cast on edge.

Flip inside out.  Using the spare needle close the top and bind off using Three Needle Bind Off technique. Weave in ends, lightly block. Wear it proud!

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Visit the Women's March on Washington's Facebook page to learn more about march and how to participate.

Loopy Mango is offering 30% off DYI Pink Cotton Candy pussyhat kits until January 21st 2017. And fyi, it only takes 1 - 2 business days to arrive to Canada!

Happy #pussyhat knitting!

Happy 2017 ~ click here to comment January 03, 2017 10:39

And just like that it’s 2017.  Most of us are back to work, back to school and officially kicking off the year.  I don’t really make New Year Resolutions, but I do like to reflect upon the past year (not too long) and think about what I would like to accomplish moving forward into the New.  January 01 is like a reset for the adventures and for the things that will happen this coming year.

What is in store for The Crafty Jackalope?  2017 will be defined by 3 words; TEACHING, DESIGN, FOCUS.

TEACHING: I have a lot of classes lined up at Baaad Anna’s this coming winter/spring, teaching knitting to beginners and the kids.   I will also be at the local Elementary schools teaching the noon hour knitting classes, along with private instruction & knit cafes.

DESIGN: We have some exciting up and coming collections in the works: using yarns from Wool And The Gang; teaming up with We Are Knitters; and 3 books are currently in the works…phew, that is a lot! 

FOCUS: With all the distractions in this world, it is more important than ever to find focus; to follow through on ideas, to find peace in unplugging if not for a few hours a day to dig deep into a project.  Don’t worry, I will still be posting and blogging, FBing, Tweeting, IGing… but I will find those times each day to unplug. 

2017 is going to be crafty and makerly.  What do you want to make this year? Want do you want to see? Please tell me.   And, I know a lot of you Cast On during the Holidays and New Year; I would love to hear about what you are making!

Happy Holidays from The Crafty Jackalope ~ click here to comment December 24, 2016 14:30

Happy Holidays Everyone!  Wishing you and your friends and families a Wonderful Sparkly Holiday Season!  We had such a great 2016, I can't wait to see where we go and what we do for 2017!  I hope to keep building upon this wonderful crafty, knitterly community designing more and teaching more!

Here is a little Christmas Eve poem I wrote last year, enjoy! 

Twas the night before Christmas,

Everyone was knitting, even the mouse.

The pressure was on, finishing gifts was the goal,

nobody wants a stocking full of coal!

The yarn was flailing, the cat was wailing

“my fur needs grooming…” but time was looming….

Are the presents made? Are the presents wrapped?

The needles clicked, and tippitty tapped.

But then it sparked, a realization that glowed,

the gift of craft was bestowed.

In this moment, the greatest present was had…

knitting with friends and family, this wasn’t so bad.

Gather around, come from far and near,

let’s craft together this coming year!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all my knitters and crafters!

Happy Hanukkah!

via GIPHY

 This is from our friends at Mochimochiland, we have enjoyed all the little motion stop animations all year-round!

Be safe & warm everyone!  Merry Christmas! xoxo

we have a winner! ~ click here to comment December 16, 2016 09:04

I am so excited to announce we have a winner!  Congratulations to Heather!

Thank you everyone for entering the Instagram contest this week!  It was so much fun hosting this giveaway!  There will be more contests/giveaways in 2017 so be sure to sign up for our Newsletter, follow us on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook and check back here weekly for more chances to win!  Happy Holidays! xoxo