JOURNEY BLOG TOUR || JANE & I ON THE SINGLEHANDED KNITS PODCAST!

Ok, I have been dying to tell you all about this all week! It's been killing me to keep it a secret!

Today is the last stop on the JOURNEY Blog Tour and we ending it with a bang! One of my favorite podcasts to listen to is the awesome Mel of Singlehanded Knits. I've since gotten to know Mel and she is such a sweet and lovely person - you can't help but love her podcast!

When Jane and I asked her to join in the tour she said yes but then excitedly asked US to join in on her podcast! Say what?! We of course said yes and now you get to see......

JANE AND I LIVE ON A PODCAST!!!!

That's right! I haven't watched it yet but I'm sure I made an ars of myself....lol...and Jane looks gorgeous like she always does...haha...sorry Jane. All in all though it was quite the experience and we had a grand ol'time filming it and we hope you enjoy it just as much watching it.

So for those of you who have always wanted to sit down and knit while watching Jane and I blabber on now's your chance! We'll be chatting about all things JOURNEY and some of the behind the scenes stuff too.

Mel did such a lovely job and I can't wait for you all to see and hear it! You can also enter to win on her blog for a "hard copy" of the book JOURNEY!!!! YAY!

So come on by, grab a cup of coffee, curl up and come chat with Jane, Melissa and I! I can't wait to see you!

Follow along with the whole tour at this link and find more information on JOURNEY here on www.marianraepublications.com! Thanks for reading everyone!  We hope you enjoyed the tour!!!!

JOURNEY BLOG TOUR || IN COLOR ORDER, A PLAYFUL DAY & MISO CRAFTY KNITS

You all ready for some more JOURNEY Blog Tour fun today? I am!!! I hope you've all been enjoying the tour so far!

First up today is Jeni from the blog In Color Order. I positively adore Jeni. I started reading her blog eons ago drooling over her massive collection and knowledge of pyrex and vintage lovelies! Since then she's become an amazing pattern and fabric designer! Drool worthy for sure. I've been so happy to have gotten to know her and I'm so thankful that she joined in today! I squealed with delight when I spotted her Swift hat this morning! I love it on her! Does my heart good! Make sure you go by In Color Order and visit and be inspired!

You can find all things In Color Order here.

Next we have one of the most fun knitters I know - Melissa of Miso Crafty Knits. I'm so lucky to live in the same city as Melissa and get to see her regularly! She's a dear and special friend. She's also got some CRAZY knitting skills and this girl could get you excited about ice if you lived in an igloo. I love hearing about what things she's currently loving because I know I'm about to find something new to obsess over too! It's fun. I love this girl to bits and if you haven't already been to her blog go pop by. You'll love it!

You can find all things Miso Crafty Knits here.

And last but definitely not least we are stopping at the home of the amazing podcast A Playful Day. I love to listen to knitting podcasts and have recently become addicted this year. When I'm out and about waiting on the kids or their classes I plug my earphones in my ipad, whip out my knitting and get lost in a podcast. It's like always having a knitting buddy to knit with. And this podcast doesn't dissapoint either. A Playful Day is doing a review and giveaway today but stay tuned for next week when she will review the book as well on her podcast.

You can find all things A Playful Day here.

A HUGE thank you to all the ladies above for joining in! I have loved reading each and every one of your posts today!!! Thank you so much!

Follow along with the whole tour at this link and find more information on JOURNEY here on www.marianraepublications.com! Thanks for reading everyone!  We've got more to come so stay tuned!

JOURNEY BLOG TOUR || NOODLEHEAD, HEY PORKCHOP & SKIRT AS TOP!

I'm sooooo excited for today's stops on the JOURNEY Blog Tour! 

The 3 ladies joining in today are some of my favorite bloggers! 2 of which primarily sew and are new to knitting. I love that they are part of the tour today and hope you will hop on over to all 3 of their blogs and give them a warm hello! I know you will love all 3 of them!

First up is one of my long time bloggy friends Anna of the blog Noodlehead. I adore Anna and I equally adore over everything she makes. Her patterns, blog and work are all amazing plus she is a genuinely kind and awesome friend! Pop by Noodlehead today to read her review (she's been knitting for almost a year) and check out the JOURNEY project she has in the works!

You can find all things Noodlehead here.

Next up is Amanda from Hey Porkchop. First off be warned, I drool and get lost in Amanda's site every time I visit it. The yarn shots, the handmade socks, the adorable embroidery - this girl is one of my fave blogs to kill an hour at :) She's one half of the awesome biz The Frosted Pumpkin Stitchery - seriously cute cross stitch patterns!

You can find all things Hey Porkchop here.

And last, but not least, the lovely Kristin of Skirt as Top. I heart Kristin. A brand new knitter who's braving the world of knitting - I'm so proud of her! She's a die hard sewer and has some seriously mad skills so I'm so proud to see her finally jump into some knitting too. You all know how much I love to convert people...hehe. I just know in a few months she'll be knitting up a storm! Make sure you go on by and cheer her on.

You can find all things Skirt as Top here.

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart ladies - so excited you all joined in!!!!

Follow along with the whole tour at this link and find more information on JOURNEY here on www.marianraepublications.com! Thanks for reading everyone!  We've got more to come so stay tuned!

JOURNEY BLOG TOUR || TANIS FIBER ARTS!

Are you ready for another stop on the JOURNEY Blog Tour? Yay! I am!

Next up is uber talented Tanis of Tanis Fiber Arts! You all know how much we LOVE her yarns!!! She's also a seriously amazing designer herself so make sure you drop by her site and check out the yarns (one of my top faves) and her patterns! You won't be disappointed!

You can also enter to win an eBook of JOURNEY on her blog today too! You can find all things Tanis Fiber Arts here:

WEBSITE ||  BLOG  ||  FACEBOOK  ||  TWITTER  ||  PINTEREST  ||  INSTAGRAM  ||  RAVELRY

 Thanks so much for joining in Tanis!!!! So thrilled you loved the book!

Follow along with the whole tour at this link and find more information on JOURNEY here on www.marianraepublications.com! Thanks for reading everyone!  We've got more to come so stay tuned!

BOOKS || SIMPLE SEWING BOOK REVIEW & GIVEAWAY!!!

Don't you just love a good sewing book? One that you can't decide what to make first when you open it?

I do and today I'm so excited to be part of the Simple Sewing Blog Tour for Katie Lewis of the blog The Red Kitchen for her new book "Simple Sewing: 30 Fast and Easy Projects for Beginners". Now don't be swayed by the word beginner. Yes, the patterns aren't difficult, so yes, they are suited to beginners but you definitely do not need to be a beginner sewer to LOVE this book. The projects are quick, fun and such great sews. There are so many to choose from it honestly took me a good few weeks to decide. I won't deny I love that.

In the end I went with the pattern for the fabric basket. I have been procrastinating on making one for eons and thought to myself it's time. I'm going to give some of that clutter on my sewing desk a new purdy home. I love how it turned out and in fact, after making it, decided it may even get a home for a while on our coffee table :) I used some of the new line "Minimilista" from Art Gallery Fabrics. I combined Script Turquoise and Darts Turquoise and they make me so happy together. They look so great with the same color turquoise walls in my sewing area.

Want to see some more of Simple Sewing? Yay! I can't wait to show you! 

Simple Sewing is bright, cheerful and easy to follow. Featuring clear instructions, full color photographs, and a helpful beginning section on sewing supplies, fabric, stitches, and terms & techniques that will aid a new sewer to conquer any of the projects in this book. Simple Sewing is organized in the following fun chapters - Accessories, Home, Celebrations, Baby, School Days and Toys! Each chapter has 5 awesome patterns! I love that the book also represents Katie's style and aesthetic as well. It would make a great gift or addition to any sewers book collection.

You can purchase your own copy of Simple Sewing: 30 Fast and Easy Projects for Beginners by Katie Lewis at the following:

AMAZON  ||  BARNES & NOBLE  ||  BOOKS & THINGS

or 
ENTER TO WIN A COPY OF SIMPLE SEWING BELOW

HOW TO ENTER: Simply fill out the rafflecopter entry form below.

PRIZE: 1 winner will win a copy of Simple Sewing by Katie Lewis

RULES: Open to US Residents ONLY. Giveaway will end on Dec. 9th.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thanks for having me on the tour Katie!!! Congratulations on the new book!

Make sure you guys also stop by the fabulously talented April Rhodes blog to check out what she made!

JOURNEY BLOG TOUR || THE YARNIAD & TRULY MYRTLE

We're on day two of the JOURNEY Blog Tour! Yay!

So excited for today's stops! First up is one of my fave designers and friend Hilary of The Yarniad! She's one of the sweetest gals I know and I just adore her designs and work as well! So excited to have her on board with us today! Make sure you pop by her blog today and show her some luv! You can also enter to win an eBook of JOURNEY!

You can find all things The Yarniad on her website here.

We also have the wonderful Libby of the blog Truly Myrtle on the tour today! A regular member of the luvinthemommyhood Ravlery group and one of my fave knit bloggers she's sharing which patterns are her faves from JOURNEY today and also giving away a copy of the eBook! Libby is funny, sweet and so talented so make sure you visit her too!

You can find all things Truly Myrtle on her website here.

Thank you so much for joining in Hilary and Libby! You guys are awesome!

Follow along with the whole tour at this link and find more information on JOURNEY here on www.marianraepublications.com! Thanks for reading everyone!  We've got more to come so stay tuned!

JOURNEY BLOG TOUR!

Today is the first stop on our JOURNEY Book Blog Tour! 

Jane and I have been so excited for this tour! There will be lots of giveaways all week, tons of fun and a great surprise at the end of the week on Saturday! You DO NOT want to miss it! The tour kicks off today and will run until this upcoming Saturday.  Here's all the awesome bloggers!

MONDAY \\ CELTIC CAST ON

TUESDAY \\ TRULY MYRTLE & THE YARNIAD

WEDNESDAY \\ TANIS FIBER ARTS

THURSDAY \\ HEY PORKCHOP, NOODLEHEAD & SKIRT AS TOP

FRIDAY \\ MISO CRAFTY KNITS, IN COLOR ORDER & A PLAYFUL DAY

SATURDAY \\ SINGLEHANDED KNITS

But wait - we want you to join in too! Share and chat along with the tour on social media this week! 

Use hashtag #journeyknits and tweet/instagram/fb your progress & FO pics!!!!! We are dying to see some of the JOURNEY knits in action!

First up to kick off the tour is our lovely friend Kelly from the blog Celtic Cast On! We love Kelly and are so happy to send you over her way to read her post today!

You can find all things Celtic Cast On below:

BLOG  ||  FACEBOOK  ||  PINTEREST ||  TWITTER  ||  INSTAGRAM  ||  RAVELRY

Yay! Don't forget to join in too! We want to see your JOURNEY knits! What have you been knitting or hoping to cast on for? Yarn choices? Let's chat!

SALE || HOLIDAY PATTERN SALE!

Who's in the mood for a sale? I am! We've already had our Thanksgiving here in Canada but heck, I figure I can celebrate yours in the US too! 

From November 29th (Friday) through to December 2nd (Monday) I'll be running a sale!!! Get 25% off  the entire shop!!!!! Woot woot! Use coupon code "Thankful25" to get your discount! Discount is valid on my ENTIRE pattern shop except for patterns from JOURNEY (Antrorse, Onward & Swift). You can use the discount code at the following places:

RAVELRY SHOP  ||  VERY SHANNON SHOP  ||  ETSY SHOP

So eat some turkey, hang with the family, have some laughs and get making! Wishing you all a wonderful holiday weekend! Happy Thanksgiving, sewing & knitting! I'll see you next week - we're still sick but on the mend here. ♥

p.s. here's 2 handy links that are AWESOME lists of other sales going on this weekend! 
- pattern revolution sale post
- marly bird sale post

KNITTING || 30 DAYS OF INDY

DREIECKE HAT PATTERN || BUY NOW - use "30dayproject" for 50% off!

I was so excited when the fabulous knitting shop In the Loop asked for me to join in on their 30 Days of Indy for November! 

Each day of the month they are featuring a different independent knitting designer to showcase and offer you all an awesome deal on that designers pattern in order to promote their love of indy knitting designers!

So today I'm up! Yay! You can use the coupon code "30dayproject" in my Ravelry Shop and on www.veryshannon.com (not valid on etsy) to get 50% off my Dreiecke Hat Pattern!!!! Wahoo! Coupon is valid for today ONLY.

You all know how much I love this pattern! It's one of my faves! It's a fun, addictive little knit that looks harder than it is. Promise. It only takes about 134 yds so it's truly the perfect 1 skein project to treat yourself with! You can find more details about Dreiecke here on the blog or here on ravelry.

Thank you again to In the Loop (who also hosted a Downton Cowl Knit Along the other month - how awesome are they!!) for having me! You can find there website here.

Happy knitting!!!

p.s. the blog may be quiet this week. I'm sick and I still have 2 sick kiddos that have been home with me. We're on the mend and I'm doing my best to get back on here :)

JOURNEY || eBOOK & PATTERNS NOW AVAILABLE!

BUY NOW ---> SWIFT  ||  ONWARD  ||  ANTRORSE

The indies are here! If you've been waiting to get your hands on certain patterns from our new book JOURNEY the wait is over!

You can now buy all the patterns in JOURNEY individually as well as just the eBook on it's own. The hard copy is still available on pre-order and will start shipping approximately Dec. 6th and will be up on Amazon.com in about 2 weeks (we'll keep you posted). If you purchase the hard copy you will still receive the eBook and individual pattern Pdf's with it. Yay!

We have an upcoming JOURNEY Blog Tour (with giveaways galore) coming soon with some awesomely talented ladies as well as podcast reviews (you even get to hear Jane and I chat too..hehe) and more fun things along the way!

I cannot express in words how much all of your love and support towards JOURNEY means to me.

This book is so special to us and it means the world to see you all embrace it just as much as we have. To hear from knitters that non-knitters are loving the book as much as they do is AMAZING!  The photography alone tells its own story and the whole team who worked on the book wanted you to feel like you could step inside the journey yourself - knitter or not :)

This book has been a dream come true for me. To have such a wonderful business partner and co-author in Jane is special in itself. But to be able to have a book come to life with my name and designs on it has been something I have dreamed of since I was a little girl sitting in the library surrounded by stacks of books. The icing on the cake was for Jane and I to have complete creative control and our design aesthetics clearly represented on the pages as well. Creating Marian Rae Publications was born from a want of being able to achieve our creative goals, express our visions, tell our stories, and to showcase a more modern style of knitting book. One that can be left out on your coffee table that is both a conversation piece and creatively inspiring.

I'm getting all teared up just writing this post...thank you again, and it won't be the last time I write this for I owe all of you for the days, weeks, months and years..yes...years of reading. For supporting. For caring. For being along for the ride with me. I love you guys and I can't wait to see what's coming next and the best part is getting to share it with each and every one of you.

Sometimes the laundry, the chores, the lovely chaos of life can wait....for if you seize those precious moments and claim them your own creativity can happen. You ARE worth the time to make your dreams come true. 

Take those 5, 10, 15mins - whatever you can get and own them. Make them yours. Start with a stitch, or a sketch, or a seam and reach for them. Sometimes those dreams aren't as far away from reality as you think. Your babies will thank you. We all need to see dreams come true. No matter how old we are. As women, as mothers, we deserve it - YOU deserve it.

Now go take your own JOURNEY. And share it with me :)

HERE'S SOME HANDY LINKS

---> to purchase JOURNEY now click here.
---> to see all the pattern info from JOURNEY click here.
---> watch the video and read more about the book on our website www.marianraepublications.com
---> link to buy ANTRORSE
---> link to buy ONWARD
---> link to buy SWIFT
---> if you purchased your book at Knit City you can now redeem your coupon codes for your eBook and patterns. The coupon codes are located on the inside back cover of the book. You can redeem them by logging into ravelry, adding the eBook to your cart and then using the code at checkout OR if you are a non-ravelry user you can redeem here.

Last week I chatted about each of my patterns from JOURNEY. You can read those posts below:

ANTRORSE || ONWARD || SWIFT

|| BUY ANTRORSE NOW ||

|| BUY ONWARD NOW ||

|| BUY SWIFT NOW ||

Have you started making a project from JOURNEY? What's on your needles? Yarn you're drooling over? I've got a new coffee cup with your name on it! Do come on by and visit for a chat!

SEWING || PILOT HAT PATTERN REVIEW

I had so much fun making the outfits for yesterdays post I couldn't resist making a few more pieces!

When I spotted See Kate Sew's Pilot & Trapper Hats in the Winter Wonderland Collection from Pattern Anthology I just knew I had to whip up a few for the girls! And what better print to girly up the Aviator Style than Briar Rose by Heather Ross. My girls love the prints from this line! I lined the hats with a super soft white fleece to up the cozy factor! I mean seriously - how cute are these? I already have another one cut out for my nephew as well!

The Pilot Pattern is soooo fast! Once you do the first one it's bing, bang, boom - new hat done. Quick, easy and a super awesome look! The pattern even comes with bow instructions & pieces so you can add one if you'd like as well! The Trapper Hat is as equally adorable and I can't wait to try making a few of them too! Kate's instructions are clear, concise, and her diagrams are clear and easy to follow. 

Because they are so cute and I looooove this pattern so much I can't resist showing some more adorable pics!

You can still purchase the Winter Wonderland Collection from Pattern Anthology - today is the last day! 

You can find all the information on all the patterns here and you can see my reviews of the Sweet Bonnie Top by Shwin Designs and also the Holly Trousers by Go To Patterns here.

Have you sewn a hat pattern before? What fabric would you use to make the Aviator or Trapper Hat from See Kate Sew? Which one would you make first? Let's chat ladies!

SEWING || WINTER WONDERLAND COLLECTION FROM PATTERN ANTHOLOGY

I'm so excited to be part of the Pattern Anthology Winter Wonderland Tour today!!!! 

I had so much fun sewing the patterns I made from the Winter Wonderland Collection! I cannot say enough how much I loved both of these pieces. If you're a reader of my blog you know how picky and clothing sensitive my girl is. She seriously lives in leggings and that's it and even those bug her sometimes. So to see her in pants - real pants - just made me soooo darn happy. And a top with a zipper?? It's a miracle! And she loves them!

I made the Holly Trousers by Andrea Pannell of Go To Patterns. I did the elastic waist version and made a Size 5. Those adorable front pleats are so darling! I have a soft spot for the pleats paired with the modern slim leg. You can even do belt loops and a zipper if you like too! They also come with an equally awesome shorts variation too! Andrea's patterns always leave you with a professional finish and excellent fit. I really enjoy her patterns. I sewed my Holly Trousers using Robert Kaufman's Yarn-Dyed Essex Linen in Denim (one of my all time fave fabrics) with some soft pink thread used for the entire garment.

Next up is the Sweet Bonnie Top by Shwin Designs! Swoon. Peter Pan Collar. Nuff said. Sold. 


I really liked the construction Shauna used for this top. First thing I have mention is that my kid hates zippers. Like she won't wear anything with zippers but she really liked this top and felt comfortable in it. The zipper has a facing as does the collar and I think that makes a huge difference for clothing sensitve kids. She can hardly feel it and let me tell you that to even get her in something with a zipper is a huge feat in itself so that speaks volumes about this pattern. I mean how cute is this top? I made a Size 5 for this and used Playful Fox in Pink from Timber and Leaf from Sarah Watts because I was feeling foxy..lol. I added a little pieced detail to the pocket to break up the fox print but highlight the collar color and also a fun bright yellow zipper! 

Together they create one of my favorite new outfits for her. 

M was such a trooper for this shoot. It was freezing cold and very windy and she rocked it with no complaints! We even paired up the outfit with my Mallory Cowl Pattern (child and adult size available for only $1.99 - 2 for 1!) and I just LOVE it! Seriously can't resist a kid in a rockin' cowl!

Overall every piece in the Winter Wonderland Collection is a great addition to your pattern arsenal for both boys and girls! There are great unisex patterns in this bundle ranging from tops, pants, shorts, capes and hats! Make sure you check out all the tutorials, remizes and style posts for the whole tour! There is some AWESOME clothes being made! I even plan on making more.

In fact tomorrow I will have be reviewing another pattern from the collection so stick around for that! 

You can get the Pattern Anthology bundle for Winter Wonderland through till the 18th of this month!

Have you been following along with the tour? Have you sewn one of the patterns? Which one would you make first? Faves? It's Sunday...and it's a special treat for me to have a weekend blog post some come say hi! Coffee's on.... />

CRUSHES || YUMMY

I've got some new yummies to show you! Mmmmmm....

To me, new yarn, fabric..etc are just as good, if not better, than food. So yes...this stuff is YUMMY! When they show up at the door I get all giddy and run around my condo like a fool. Now my kids join me. They don't know why I'm excited they just know when the delivery person comes mommy is gonna be in one good mood! It's like Christmas when I make orders. I'm sure you other die hard makers can agree and relate.

This month I'm crushing on......

Mini Confetti Dots in ALL COLORS from Dear Stella. 

Seriously, how could this not brighten one's day? I get all giddy and smiley just looking at it which is exactly why I haven't cut into it yet. It's just so darn purdy.  That big FQ bundle? That's gonna be 2 quilts for my girlies. Can't wait. And the yardage you will have to wait and see....hehe.

Yes, more knits from Girl Charlee! How can I resist right? 

I have been having so much fun sewing with knits and have plans for tons more! I've already cut into that adorable penguin print on the top for some baby leggings for a friends new arrival! So freaking cute!!!! I can't wait to sew up the rest! Not sure what it will all be but most is for clothes for the girls and one is a for a top for me :) I finally bought the Renfrew Top from Sewaholic Patterns. Tasia is such a sweetheart and lives in Vancouver so I'm lucky to get to see her when we're over for Knit City and other fun events. I highly recommend her patterns.

Oh cashmere, how I love thee.

Recently while at Knit City I managed to snag these 2 new additions to my Sweet Fiber stash. Oh my gosh...I seriously cannot resist the lure of Cashmere. It's taken over my mind...lol. It's just so soft and glorious to work with. I grabbed 1 skein of Cashmerino Worsted in Spanish Coin and 1 skein of Merino Twist DK in Bloom. Melissa's yarns are seriously amazing. If you have a chance to try some take it.

I'm also working on a few secret projects. 

The pictures above and below are all in the works. I can't wait to show you more! There will be a special weekend post this Sunday as I join in on the Pattern Anthology Winter Wonderland Tour! Can't wait to show you! So make sure you pop by on Sunday and Monday to see what I whipped up for the girls!

Ok, so you know what's next right? My favorite part! I loooove to hear what new yarns/fabrics etc you're crushing on this month!!!! Fill me in. Spill the beans gals!

MOMENTS IN THE MOMMYHOOD || THEY GREW

do you ever wake up in the morning, take one look at your child and just know they grew from the night before?

since i'm starting to come out a bit from the haze of publishing and co-authoring a new book (JOURNEY) i realized it's been a while since i posted pics of my girlies and did a moments in the mommyhood post.  i'm still knee deep in work but i promise i've got lots of sewing coming your way (and maybe a new pattern) as well as a few new knitting patterns up my sleeve too! sneak peeks are coming! yay!!!

but now, to the fun stuff! my girlies! these kiddos have been so patient and understanding with a mommy who is "always working". i'm tired people...lol. it's been a crazy roller coaster of a year and i'm so looking forward to this winter when i can curl up and nest with my babies. i am in desperate need of some quality time with them. crafting, playing, laughing...just being with my special little ones. they just seem to be getting so big so quickly. this year has just flown by!

m is in grade 1 now and h just started preschool in sept. my little one was doing awesome at preschool - no crying, no issues and now in the last few weeks has reverted to not wanting mom to go and crying...a lot when i leave. any ideas as to why the change? all of a sudden she doesn't want to go to any of her classes etc. poor little thing :(

m is doing awesome. she's still as strong willed as ever (any tips on dealing with strong willed children are always welcome for my sanity). she's smart as a whip that one and reading up a storm of books like her mama. i love that she can read chapter books to me now and i can just lay and listen. it's one of my favorite things.

it's been a hard 6 months trying to find the balance to make, create and still be mom (i fail at it most days...haha) and if you'd like to know more about how i attempt (attempt being the key word) to do it on a daily basis you can read a recent interview i did over on the fab yarn shop's blog - stash local. you can read the interview on "making & mothering" here. thanks again sonia!

so i'm typing this staring at 5 loads of laundry that need to be folded, a load that needs to go in, a horribly messy workspace of mine, dirty dishes from last night, unvacuumed carpet, and more - but the kiddos are at school so help me procrastinate :) let's chat! it's way more fun than cleaning!

what do you do to maintain creative balance? have you chosen creative time over chores some days? what are you currently working on? how do you incorporate your kiddos into your creative time?

p.s. check out my friends from the awesome e-mag Crafting Connections: A creative e-Mag for Little Ones & Their Grown Ups new online e-course called "Craft to Connect: Turn Creating with your Little Ones into an Enjoyable Habit"! Such an awesome idea!

READING || BOOKS ON THE TABLE

you all know i have an addiction to books right? i loooooove books.

before i became a blogger i was a hairdresser. but before i became a hairdresser i worked in bookstores. i love bookstores almost as much as i love books. i worked in all sorts of positions involved in running a bookstore. my favorite was working behind the scenes. getting to choose the new titles being bought for the store, meeting with publishing house sales reps, reading advances, running book clubs - you name it, if it meant being around books i was there.

both of my folks are avid readers and i grew up with a strong passion for books and reading. i was the kid the librarian actually tried to cut off my book borrowing limit. she didn't believe i could read all the books i was checking out and tested me once and low and behold - i did :) yep, and guess who else has the same issues? my girls! i adore it! when we come home from the library we can almost not carry our library bags they are soooo full.

so lately i've been compiling a stack o' books on my desk and thought it was about time i shared some of them with you! keep reading to see which craft books i've recently had added to my library.

first up is the newest release from knitwear designer - hannah fettig! knitbot yoked is stunning. the photos are true to the quince & co signature style and the patterns...swoon! classic and clean patterns (all designed with round yokes knit from the top down) that will be timeless additions to anyones wardrobes! this book just makes you want to jump right into it and whip out your knitting needles. i loved it!

you can find more on knitbot yoked here.

sewing for all seasons is the gorgeous new title released by author susan beal (west coast crafty). susan's awesome. she's so talented and also super sweet. i just looooved the styling of this book. the pictures and projects all work well together and bring together a lovely compilation of patterns to sew throughout the year! she even has all the projects in the book sorted by season with lovely, lovely, lead pages. swoon! i can't wait to get making from this book! the pieced throw below is my absolute fave! i want to reach in and steal it from the page! love it!!!

you can find sewing for all seasons here.

can i just say that when i was a kid i adored flip dolls? so imagine how excited i was to see "flip dolls & other toys" by laura wilson come out? this book is a must have for any sewer looking to make some awesome dolls & toys! i squealed when this book arrived. it's filled to the brim with projects that are all fun, creative and ones you can have as much fun making as your kids will playing with them!

you can find flip dolls & other toys here.

OTHER TITLES ON MY TABLE

:: instacraft by Alison Caporimo and Meera Lee Patel
:: Craft-a-Doodle: 75 Creative Exercises from 18 Artists by Jenny Doh
:: Quick & Easy Baby Knits by Sarah E. White

what books have you been reading? what are your current faves this fall? mmmm...coffee's on and i'd love to chat ♥

PATTERN || SWIFT FROM "JOURNEY"

SWIFT - GEOMETRIC LACE 

Featuring a geometric lace pattern with textural details and fun angular lines,the Swift hat is as enjoyable to knit as it is to wear!

The JOURNEY pre-order is open till November 17th and when you buy the pre-order you get an INSTANT download of the e-book so you can start making right away! Yay!!! Plus they ship just in time for xmas! Books will go out on December 6th :) JOURNEY would make a lovely gift for the knitter in your life or even to treat yourself!

JOURNEY PRE-ORDER

hard copy + e-book only $26.95

individual pattern $4.95 ||

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Ohhh...Swift...I heart you. This hat pattern is so darn fun. 

You see when I knit I can tend to get bored really easy. Now don't get me wrong, that doesn't mean I always want to knit super complicated things but I like to have a bit of interest to keep me satisfied.

Swift fills all my requirements. A few easy rounds and then one fun one, easy rounds, then a fun one...and repeat...till you're done! It's easy to memorize and before you know it - you're done! Love it!

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SWIFT: Moving or capable of moving with great speed

The texture on Swift really shines thanks to Quince and Co.'s lovely sport weight yarn - Chickadee. It takes less than 2 skeins so for under $15 you get a brand new rockin' hat! Yay! This soft and springy yarn works perfect for this hat pattern! It makes my heart happy to see the movement in the stitch pattern! You know how I love me some movement and texture. Even the ribbing moves ever so slightly ♥ And don't be fooled - this hat is way easier than it looks! If you can knit, purl, and do an increase you can make it! Don't let the lace scare you away!

I had so much fun with the photoshoot for Swift too! I got to ride in an awesome vintage car (that belongs to Jane's mom and was driven by her) along with the model and photographer as we drove up and down the prettiest road! It was a riot and so fun!!! And our photographer (Nicholas Kupiak) did an amazing job. These shots are some of my faves from the book. The expression on our model Rylee's face in the shots just does me in every time.

So you know I have to show you more pics right? Yay!

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It was so fun to see all the Swift hat's made by my testers! Some even made more than 1 they enjoyed it so much! I'm knitting a 2nd one for myself in the colorway Honey right now to go with my sized Antrorse! I can't wait to show you pics of it as well and I soooo cannot wait to see your Ravelry projects pop up too! So grab some Chickadee and pic your fave color and let's get knitting together! So thankful for all of your support ♥

JOURNEY PRE-ORDER

hard copy + e-book only $26.95

individual pattern $4.95 ||

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You can find more pattern details and specifics for SWIFT here on it's ravelry project page as well as on our website Marian Rae Publications.

You know what I'm going to ask right? Which yarn /color would you make Swift in? Have you gotten a copy of JOURNEY yet? What did you think? I love hearing your comments so come chat!

p.s. for all those wondering the e-book and individual patterns will be available when the pre-order is over.

PATTERN || ONWARD FROM "JOURNEY"

The Onward Shawl - modern texture!

This modern shawl pattern showcases a lovely, textured, reversible pattern that is sure to catch your eye. It’s knit in worsted-weight yarn that’s perfect to cozy up in when the weather is cool. You’ll find this pattern (and the easy-to-memorize format) a fun knit!

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The JOURNEY pre-order

is open till November 17th and when you buy the pre-order you get an INSTANT download of the e-book so you can start making right away! Yay!!! Plus they ship just in time for xmas! Books will go out on December 6th :) JOURNEY would make a lovely gift for the knitter in your life or even to treat yourself!

JOURNEY || BUY NOW

hard copy + e-book only $26.95

individual pattern $6.95 ||

Onward is a project that is very near and dear to me. I seriously have been dreaming of this project for over a year. I swatched and sketched etc until finally everything came together with one of my favorite worsted weight yarns

Lark from Quince and Co. The stitch definition in Lark is AMAZING. Like it makes me drool. I am a big fan of texture (in case  you haven't noticed...haha) and for this shawl you really need a yarn that will make those stitches pop! Once blocked this baby has a great wingspan, can be worn in several ways and is definitely a conversation piece! It's a pattern that doesn't require a chart, is quick to memorize, easy to read your work and a GREAT beginner shawl pattern! It's a fun one! Trust me on that!

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ON.WARD: Moving or tending forward.

Onward also knits up quick. Using worsted weight for a shawl is fun people! It's warm, cozy but not so thick you can't layer it all throughout the year. I had so much fun styling it on our lovely model Rylee for the shoot. We wanted you to see the shawl in an everyday setting that is relaxed and casual. It's one of my favorite pieces to curl up with and I so hope you will enjoy it too.

If you have been wanting to jump into shawl knitting I think you would really enjoy Onward. If you know how to cast on, knit, purl, yarn over, and read directions you are good to go!

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Want to see some more pics? Yay!!!!! Isn't our photographer Nicholas Kupiak amazing!

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I can't wait to see your

Onwards

pop up on Ravelry! I really did design this shawl with a beginner knitter in mind so if you're a sewer (which I know a lot of you are) and you've gotten a few knitting projects under your belt please don't be scared to try it out! I think you'll enjoy it! The JOURNEY pre-order is open till November 17th and when you buy the pre-order you get an INSTANT download of the e-book so you can start making right away! Yay!!! Plus they ship just in time for xmas! Books will go out on December 6th :)

JOURNEY PRE-ORDER

hard copy + e-book only $26.95

individual pattern $6.95 ||

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You can find more pattern details and specifics for ONWARD here on it's ravelry project page as well as on our website Marian Rae Publications.

Ok, so spill the beans....what yarn would you make Onward in? What color? Have you made a worsted weight shawl before? I've got coffee, pull up a seat and let's chat :)

PATTERN || ANTRORSE FROM "JOURNEY"!

Antrorse is your new favorite pullover. 

Featuring a cozy reversible funnel neck that can be worn open or buttoned, this pullover delivers comfort with a modern edge. The center panel adds a fun detail that draws the eye upward - it’s slimming and fun to knit!

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Antrorse is so very special to me. I'm so smitten with the ease and comfy factor with this pullover! I feel like it just shouts Shannon in a sweater and that makes me so very happy! The funnel neck is my favorite part. Who doesn't love a great funnel? So flattering and also super stylish. And the center panel is me loving my textures and plays on movement. I just can't get enough...lol. Some people have called it a chevron but what's funny is I never saw that. I drew out my sketches of a dash or arrowhead movement pointing upward - thus the name. Call it what you will - I'm crushing on it. I'm just beyond thrilled to see my sketches come to life!

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Hard copy + e-book only $26.95
Individual pattern $6.95

PRE-ORDER

The JOURNEY pre-order is open till November 17th and when you buy the pre-order you get an INSTANT download of the e-book so you can start making right away! Yay!!! Plus they ship just in time for xmas! Books will go out on December 6th :) JOURNEY would make a lovely gift for the knitter in your life or even to treat yourself!

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An.trorse: Directed forward and upward

Knit up in the cushy aran weight Osprey from Quince and Co. Antrorse knits up super quick on 6mm needles.

The funnel is knit flat and then joined in the round and the rest of the pullover is knit top down. The sweater is designed with 2in of positive ease and is meant to be worn semi-fitted so it's perfect for layering! Pair with your fave top/tank underneath or over your new go-to dress with leggings and boots for fall. 

I've finished one up in my size (42") and just need to block it. I can't wait to show you all! I've got curves all over the place and let me tell you - I feel fab in my Antrorse! Hides all the bits I don't want shown..lol...and that's important when you've had 2 kiddos. Taller than the average gal? No worries, the center panel repeat is so easy to keep going to any length you'd like. I made the one in my size a tunic length for fun! I simply did 2 times more the repeats than the pattern calls for.  

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And now for some more pics! You all know I just can't resist! The awesome

Nicholas Kupiak did our photos for JOURNEY as well and I think they are stunning.

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I hope you will all enjoy Antrorse as much as I do! Grab your new fave aran weight yarn, some gorgeous buttons, pour a hot cup of coffee and let's knit together! The JOURNEY pre-order is open till November 17th and when you buy the pre-order you get an INSTANT download of the e-book so you can start making right away! Yay!!! Plus they ship just in time for xmas! Books will go out on December 6th :)

JOURNEY || BUY NOW

hard copy + e-book only $26.95

individual pattern $6.95 ||

BUY NOW

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You can find more pattern details and specifics for Antrorse here on it's ravelry project page as well as on our website Marian Rae Publications.

Thank you so much for all the love you guys have already shown. Seriously, it means the world to me and I'm just so thrilled that JOURNEY is here - it's a dream come true! xoxoxo

.......stay tuned for ONWARD up next tomorrow!

Now - what yarn would you make Antrorse in? What buttons would  you use? I'm dying to know!

JOURNEY || PRE-ORDER NOW OPEN!

 BUY NOW
hard copy + e-book only $26.95

------- PRE-ORDER NOW OPEN! JOURNEY IS HERE! -------

JOURNEY is now open for pre-order!!! for only $26.95 you get a hard copy, e-book and the individual digital pattern pdf's! yay! when you pre-order a hard copy of the book you will recieve the e-book immediately. the book is available for pre-order from nov. 4th-17th & books will ship dec. 6th.

A collaboration of hand knits from designers Jane Richmond and Shannon Cook (that's me - yay!) inspired by the journey of self-discovery, independence and the path back to yourself. this gorgeous collection of garment and accessory patterns forms a special book filled with beautiful photography by Nicholas Kupiak -  let the pages take you away on your own JOURNEY. this book is a must have for your knitting book collection - it includes patterns to make 2 garments, 1 pair of socks, 1 shawl, a hat and a pair of fingerless mitts. 

i'm so insanely proud of this book that jane and i wrote and published together! we love it and hope you all do as well! 

my 3 patterns are antrorse (pullover), onward (shawl) and swift (hat) and jane's are inland (cardigan), spate (fingerless mitts) and climb (socks). i cannot wait to see your projects pop up on ravelry! it feels like i've been dreaming and working on these designs for so long that it will be surreal to see you all enjoying making and wearing them! and that's the best part of JOURNEY's patterns - they are all staple pieces that are fun and not difficult to knit! we want you to enjoy yourself and relax with this collection!

CLIMB * ONWARD * SPATE * SWIFT * ANTRORSE * INLAND

you can see all the pics, watch the promo video and get info on the book on our website here - www.marianraepublications.com and also view more detailed pattern information on ravelry here - http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/journey/patterns.

DETAILS

Paperback: 8 1/2 x 8 1/2, 128 pages, full color images throughout.
Publisher: Marian Rae Publications
Published: October 2013
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0991728912
ISBN-13: 978-0-9917289-1-6
For more information about the patterns in JOURNEY please visit our Ravelry Shop. 
BUY NOW

i'll be sharing posts this week and next on my 3 patterns and some behind the scenes of the book so stay tuned for that! after keeping JOURNEY a secret all year i can't wait to chat all about it so i hope you'll join me! thank you so much to all of you for your support and all the lovely and kind comments so many have already shared to us about JOURNEY! we ♥ you guys!

do you have a copy of JOURNEY yet? what pattern are you dreaming of making first? yarn crushes? share away! i'd love to hear all about it!!! xoxoxo 

*Please Note: If you purchased a hard copy of JOURNEY at Knit City last weekend you should have a coupon code in the back of your book to redeem a free copy of the eBook. This coupon code will be activated AFTER the pre-order has ended.  

WINNER || FANFARE FLANNEL FABRIC GIVEAWAY FROM FAT QUARTER SHOP

i'm back from knit city 2013 (it was so fun!) but i've been under the weather since i got home :( but i couldn't resist quickly popping in to let you know who won the fat quarter shop fanfare flannel fabric giveaway!!!

and our winner is......commenter #9 - rebecca! 

congratulations rebecca! you've won a fat quarter bundle of fanfare flannel from fat quarter shop! we'll be in touch soon!

thank you to all who entered and to the fat quarter shop for the awesome giveaway!

i hope you've all been having a great week and i'll be back as soon as i can :) until then come chat with me! i could use the company ♥