Sandra's Designing Blog

This is an exclusive area of my web site where you can find out more about my knitted designs, what inspires me, how I work and what I like (and don't like) to design. 
 
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  1. Just sometimes

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    Just sometimes 

    I take some time out from designing to just knit for myself. Over the last few weeks I've been working on the Nordic Bloom Vest by Caitlin Hunter. Quite a simply pattern with a really cute flower motif. The design called for steeking but as I'm ok with doing the purl rows of stranded knitting I worked on this flat ( ie on straight needles). 

    Next time..... I'll knit a bigger size, maybe my swatch measuring wasn't perfect !
     

    Why I Knit for Myself

    Knitting is more than just a craft or a job for me—it’s a deeply personal practice. When I knit for myself, I’m not only creating something to wear or enjoy but also exploring new techniques, experimenting with yarns, and pushing my skills to new heights. This hands-on practice fuels my creativity and allows me to design patterns that are both unique and approachable.

    Knitting for myself also gives me space to explore my personal fashion style. I’m still learning which colours and styles suit me best, and how to integrate new knits into my existing wardrobe. Through this process, I discover what works and what doesn’t—lessons I can pass on to you. Whether it’s advice on colour combinations, tips for wearable designs, or how to pair a hand-knit with other pieces, these insights often find their way into my patterns, blogs and tutorials.

    Every project becomes a classroom, helping me refine my techniques, experiment with fashion choices, and troubleshoot potential challenges. This ensures that the patterns I create for you are thoughtful, well-tested, and polished. When you pick up one of my designs, you’re not just following a pattern; you’re benefiting from hours of discovery and learning.

    Knitting for myself is where the joy of creation meets personal growth. Sharing that joy and insight through my designs is the ultimate reward.

  2. Learning a new trick

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    Macrame is a fun, tactile craft that’s great for creating small, decorative pieces perfect for the Christmas season. Using just a few simple knots, you can make charming ornaments like mini Christmas trees, stars, or angels, which bring a handmade touch to Christmas decor. Small projects like these are also ideal for beginners, allowing you to explore basic macrame techniques without committing to a large project.
    A couple of days ago I decided to have a go at this wonderful craft, see if I could recreate the beautiful circular visions I had seen.  The 'SNOWFLAKES' kit I sell seemed the obvious choice, little mini projects, each of which could be completed in an hour or two. Well to my delight I smashed it. 
    The macrame bug took hold and other creations appeared.
    Bergin & Bath Mandala Kits -   Premium craft kits, planet-friendly projects, packaged with style.   Our motto is  #CraftnotCrap
    The joy with purchasing a kit is that ALL the instructions, macrame yarn, circles and beads are included in the kit so as a starting point these are great. Once you've mastered the 1st one, you then know what materials to buy and there are plenty of free tutorials to move you on a stage.

    1. Macrame for Beginners offers a range of Christmas tutorials, including projects for mini wreaths, Christmas trees, and stars. Each design is beginner-friendly, using accessible materials and providing step-by-step guides for easy crafting. You can explore options like cinnamon stick ornaments or gnomes, which are perfect for the holidays​

      Macrame for Beginners.

    2. Marching North has tutorials for several easy macrame Christmas ornaments, like macrame angels and a tassel ornament incorporating dried orange slices for a rustic feel. These projects use simple materials and can be completed quickly, making them great for quick gift ideas or festive touches around your home​

      Marching North

    3. Macrame Reindeer Ornaments - Carolina Montoni offers a tutorial on crafting small reindeer ornaments that would add a whimsical, handmade charm to any Christmas tree. This beginner-friendly project focuses on simple knotting techniques, making it accessible for anyone looking to add a festive touch to their decor​

      Grit and Graceful

    4. Macrame Angel Ornaments - Chasta from Soulful Notions has an easy-to-follow guide on creating angel ornaments using soft, golden-hued macrame cord. These delicate angels can be customized with various colors to suit your tree or holiday theme. Lori Lori also offers a simpler version if you're looking to create a few in quick succession​

      Curious Craft Studio

    5. Macrame Candy Cane Ornament - Julia Tothefullest shares a DIY for candy cane ornaments made with colorful macrame cord, perfect for a traditional holiday look. This quick project uses basic knots and can be a fun way to introduce kids to macrame​

      Grit and Graceful

    For more inspiration, consider joining a macrame community, such as the Macrame for Beginners Facebook group, where crafters share ideas, troubleshoot projects, and offer support to fellow beginners.

    These sources provide creative ideas that balance skill-building with the joy of handmade Christmas decor!