MOMENTS || TURNING THE HEEL


I've been trying really  hard to stay on top of my goals for the blog and for myself this year and January sure gave me a run for my money.

It's been quite the test as I've been really busy behind the scenes of the blog and it could have been so easy to slip back into old ways. I have a post coming up this week that I'll explain this a bit more but I'm happy to stay I saw my old habits coming back and managed to pull myself back onto course again and stick it out. Have you been sticking to your new year's resolutions?

In the meantime I've also been enjoying some quiet moments to feed my soul and sole...hehe...sorry, couldn't resist. I've been working on some new patterns but also enjoying some great purse knitting for a new pair of socks. I'm madly in love with my self striping yarn from Caterpillar Green Yarns! This is colorway concrete and tulips and it is gorgeous!!! I highly recommend her yarns. Her stripes are amazing and she's local!

I turned my heel on the weekend (after some cray crazy math and a few oospies) and am now on the ankle portion! Yay! Can't wait to show you all the other colors I have in there now! There's a red/pink heel!!! Weeee! Fun! I also didn't miss the fact that I turned my heel on the same day I managed to work through a very stressful sewing situation (aka the dress from hell).  It felt good to make it through something bad and then end my day turning the heel on a fun new pair of socks! Silly as that sounds I slept great that night..lol.

In the craziness of my last week or so I realized that I haven't announced the winner of the Fat Quarter Shop Fabric Giveaway! Our winner is....commenter #53 - Michala.  Congratulations Michala! We'll be in contact with you soon! Happy fabric shopping!

What have you been working on this past month? Are you a sock addict? Have you been taking time for just "you"?

KNITTING || JOURNEY KNIT ALONG ANNOUNCEMENT!!!


Guess what??? We're doing a JOURNEY Knit Along!!!! Woot woot!!! We're so excited! 

Jane and I wanted to wait until after the holidays to kick off the new year with a fun knit along for our newest book release - JOURNEY: A Collaboration! We are super excited to do a knit along for this book and cannot wait to see all your projects!!! What do you say? Would you like to join us? Yay!

// START DATE
- the KAL will start on February 5th (next Wednesday).

// END DATE
- the KAL will end on February 26th with a fun giveaway! There will be awesome prizes!!!

// HOW TO SIGN UP
- simply enter your info (kept private) into this form to be eligible to win the giveaway at the end of the KAL. You also must have a project in progress during the KAL to be eligible.

// RULES OF THE KAL
- HAVE FUN! For reals! That's a rule...lol! You must have fun...lol.
- You can join the KAL with a project from JOURNEY already started. We encourage people to finish up those WIP's. If you are half way though you might want to wait a week or two before joining in to make it fair :) We also encourage playing nicely.
- You can make anything from the book JOURNEY. Other projects will not qualify you for the KAL.
- You don't have to finish your project by the end of the KAL (though we encourage that) to be eligible for the prize. We just want ya to join in :)

WHERE CAN YOU FIND US ONLINE TO JOIN IN?

1. RAVELRY. Find the KAL running in the Very Shannon Ravelry Group. The thread to chat in will be up today sometime so you can all pop in and share which projects you will be making, swatches, yarn choices etc. This is the part I find the most fun! I love all the chatting, friendships, laughs and support. If you haven't joined in over there before for our KAL's you should give it a try.

2. PINTEREST. We will have a fun JOURNEY KAL Pinterest Board where you can find other people's projects pinned to see different yarns, sizes, and get inspiration. We will be adding to this pinboard as the KAL progresses throughout the month so please share your projects pics with us! We love to see them!

3. OUR BLOGS. Each week throughout the KAL, Jane and I will both be posting. It will be double the fun! You will be able to read each of our posts hopefully every Wed throughout the duration of the knit along. 

4. SOCIAL MEDIA. You can follow along with pics and more with the hashtag #journeykal. You can find Jane and I on facebook, twitter, instagram and google+. Our links to our social media pages can both be found on the top of our sidebars so follow along and join in :)

WHERE CAN YOU GET JOURNEY?

You can now buy JOURNEY in mutliple formats. You can purchase the hard copy version that also comes with the eBook and the individual pattern PDF's via Amazon, your local yarn shops, and Ravelry. Click HERE to find all the links.

You can purchase JUST the eBook (with individual pattern PDF's) via Ravelry here.

Don't want the whole book? That's cool too. You can also purchase each pattern PDF individually via Ravelry. I also have my patterns from the book available to purchase through my own shop Very Shannon and on Etsy.

We thank you for all the wonderful love & support you have shown Jane and myself since the release of JOURNEY. We are so glad you are all enjoying the book as much as we do. We so appreciate each and every one of you.


So what do you say? It's KAL time!!! Yay! What project will you be making? Yarn choices? It's raining buckets and I'm cozied up with some yummy hot coffee and there's a mug for you! Let's chat!

SEWING || PLANTAIN T-SHIRT BY DEER AND DOE

Plantain T-shirt from Deer and Doe || Sewn by Very Shannon
Plantain T-shirt from Deer and Doe || Sewn by Very Shannon
Plantain T-shirt from Deer and Doe || Sewn by Very Shannon
Plantain T-shirt from Deer and Doe || Sewn by Very Shannon
Plantain T-shirt from Deer and Doe || Sewn by Very Shannon

Deer and Doe recently released a free pattern called the Plantain T-shirt and boy did I fall head over heels in love with it. 

Free or not I needed this top. The fit and slight flare of the bottom portion is what I fell hard for. You see, I got a tummy ladies. Not a tiny one either and I need to hide that thing..lol. So if i can get a top that shows off my good parts (aka the girls) but hide the bad (the tummy) I'm game to sew it!

Deer and Doe patterns are clearly written with lovely diagrams/illustrations and their sizing is fabulous. I found this top an easy and quick sew! In fact I've already made 2 in under a week (watch for a post on the 2nd one soon)! That is a record for me! I am most definitely NOT a pattern repeater. But seriously, this top is such a great addition to my wardrobe. I also plan on making at least a few more. They are going to be on regular rotation in my house. Now to pick out some more fabrics!

I made the size XL and the only modification I made was the lazy man's hip...haha...or what I call grading down my seam allowance from 5/8" to 1/4" to give myself a smidge more room around the belly/hips without having to retrace/draft the pattern pieces. I started this just under the armpit and love how it worked out!

One of my current fave blogs to read - Paunnet, has recently joined the Deer and Doe team as their english language blogger (the Deer and Doe speak primarily french) and she has an awesome tutorial on how to turn your Plantain shirt into a dress! Ummmm...yes please! I will be making this STAT. You can find it here. There's also a contest going on over at Deer and Doe for the Plantain T-shirt as well! There are some lovely versions in their flickr group to check out too!

You can find the free download from Deer and Doe HERE. Make sure to check out their other patterns too! Almost all of them are on my "to make" list for this year!

Have you made a Plantain T-Shirt yet? I'd love to see it if you have!
Top: Plantain T-shirt (free pattern) from Deer and Doe, 
Top Fabric: Cotton knit c/o The Fabric Store (LA) (if you live in LA check them out!)
Boots: Target (Canada)

MAKING || HANDMADE WINTER VIDEO

~ video by the talented Dave Cooper ~

Handmade Winter features over 50 craft and sewing projects, recipes, ideas for entertaining, stories, poetry and more, your winter will be full of love and connection, even after the holidays have come and gone! Comprised of works from some of the best creative lifestyle bloggers and project designers from around the web, Handmade Winter is like having all of your favorite blogs all in one place!

http://www.e-junkie.com/264210/product/493389.phpChristmas is over but that doesn't mean you have to stop enjoying making and living a creative lifestyle throughout the whole winter season! Read more about Handmade Winter: A Season to Gather, Make & Share & see what project I contributed in the eBook in my review here. You can also read more on the Handmade Winter website and also in our flipboard magazine here.

I hope you all enjoy a Handmade Winter as much as we did putting it together. It's such a special collaboration and I'm so excited for you all to see it!!! Find out more details and purchase your own copy of Handmade Winter here for just $15! Enjoy!!!

You can always keep track and join in with us and the other creative mamas on social media using hashtag #creativemamas and #handmadewinter on Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, Facebook & more!

Have you got a copy of Handmade Winter yet? What have you made from it? What would you make first? Let's all get making together!

SEWING || PENELOPE PEPLUM BY SEE KATE SEW

Penelope Peplum by See Kate Sew \\ Sewn by Very Shannon
Penelope Peplum by See Kate Sew \\ Sewn by Very Shannon
Penelope Peplum by See Kate Sew \\ Sewn by Very Shannon
Penelope Peplum by See Kate Sew \\ Sewn by Very Shannon

I FINALLY GOT TO SEW UP A PENELOPE PEPLUM TOP!

I was so excited when my friend Kate of See Kate Sew mentioned she was releasing the Penelope Peplum Top Pattern! I had been looking to get one for eons but whenever I try one on in a store they never hit me in the right spot and instead of hiding my tummy they made me look more pregnant. I thought sewing one for myself instead would give me the flexibility to adjust it to my body and waist.

The Penelope Peplum also has an extension pattern that includes a circle skirt dress option, circle skirt peplum option and a gathered dress option so you can really make a whole bunch of versions! It's also available in child's sizes as the Pippa Peplum Pattern! I totally need to make one for both girls so we can all be matchy matchy. And yes, I would do that. And no, I don't care if it makes me look like a dork...cause it's fun and that's how I roll.

I found Kate's pattern (and always do find them) clear, easy to follow, well laid out and accompanied by awesome diagrams and instructions. 

She does a fabulous job for fit as well. My favorite part about the Penelope Peplum Top is the facing on the neckline. Looooove that clean and neat finish. I have a soft spot for that. The only modifications I made to the pattern was to add about 2" to the length of the skirt. I like my tops a tad longer to cover my tummy and I found the original length too short for me to hide it. This pattern gives you options for short sleeves (shown on me) or a cool half sleeve (which I wanted to make but didn't have enough fabric for). The pattern also comes with a cute bow that you can make to add to the top as well.

Kate also gives you an option to sew the top with either elastic thread or to gather the skirt pieces. I gathered and if I was to do it again I would use the elastic thread or sew elastic to the gathering portion (like how Delia did hers here). I think I would have preferred that for when I'm putting it on. Every time I slip it over my head I cross my fingers my boobs aren't going to rip my sewing...lmao. Seriously...big booby girl problems..lol. The elastic thread would have made me feel a bit less uneasy for wear and tear. So far though the stitching has held strong (thanks to my awesome mock coverstitch on my Pfaff Ambition 1.0).

Check out the Penelope Peplum Pattern by See Kate Sew Patterns and also the circle skirt/dress add on for it. She also has a little girl version called the Pippa Peplum (seriously so cute!). And you can see the rest of the fabulous ladies on the tour here on See Kate Sew! Thanks for having me Kate! 
Have you made a Penelope or Pippa Peplum yet? I'd love to hear about it and if you haven't, which fabric would you use?
 Top: Penelope Peplum Pattern by See Kate Sew
Top Fabric: Heather Ross - Briar Rose, Strawberry in Orange
Pants: American Eagle
Bracelet: c/o C. Johannesen Studio (custom)

CREATIVITY || GOALS & CHANGES

Goals & Changes on VeryShannon.com

2014.
A new year, a fresh start.
I love when people share their goals, resolutions, dreams and thoughts from this time of the year. I like seeing that glimpse into a more personal side of them. That they are "real" and not perfect. It makes me feel better about myself not being perfect. I also find it energizing this time of year to know so many of us are working on changes, new ideas, and on making 2014 AWESOME!

I took a much needed and very lovely break over the holidays. During that time I did a lot of soul searching and thinking about life and my work/life balance. I came to a lot of hard conclusions about myself and what changes I need to make in my life for my health and for my family. Because I want to stand true to the decisions I've made I thought it would be a good idea to document it here so I can share it with all of you and we can all help each other work towards our goals for 2014.

I had a wonderful and amazing 2013 but there were a lot of months that my life was out of control. Months of unhealthy work habits. Late, late nights, high stress, pressure and feeling like I just couldn't get everything I needed to get done accomplished. It was mentally and physically exhausting. While I loved all the experiences I had in 2013 it played a huge toll on my body. I still don't feel 100% even after taking 2 weeks off. My body is slowly getting into a new rhythm. Bed before 11pm, no work after 8pm unless I have a special deadline and more sewing/knitting/designing time and less being handcuffed to the computer. It has felt amazing to take back some control. Say no when I need to and start getting healthy again.

You may also have noticed some changes on the blog. A new look, and a new name.
You will slowly see more changes over the next few months as I finish the rebranding. Luvinthemommyhood will only exist now as the url for the blog. The name that you will find me online using as of today is "Very Shannon". I'm so very excited about fully implementing this change. I've changed so much in the last 6 years of this blog and the original name just didn't work for me anymore. It was also very confusing to people and hard for me to spell and explain to people. It's also long and didn't fit well on packaging/branding. So "Very Shannon" was born in the fall and I've been slowly moving in that direction.

Today is the big day though! I'm putting in all my social media changes! So on twitter, facebook, instagram etc you will have to look for me as a new name.

TWITTER: @soveryshannon
INSTAGRAM: @soveryshannon
FACEBOOK: in process of changing name (page url is new though - www.facebook.com/veryshannon) 
PINTEREST: @soveryshannon 
RAVELRY USERNAME: @veryshannon 
RAVELRY GROUP: www.ravelry.com/groups/veryshannon

My feeds shouldn't change at all it will just be when you want to tag me online. I'm sorry for any confusion or inconvenience during the transition but I know in the end it is the right step for myself and my business.


Goals & Changes on VeryShannon.com

And now my goals....you ready? Have you written yours?

CARE OF SELF/FAMILY
- go to bed earlier (no more 1-2am bedtime every night).
- spend more "present" time with my family.
- differentiate work/family time.
- more work free weekends.
- make a more realistic work schedule and follow it.
- be kinder to myself and my body.

EXERCISE & HEALTH
- continue to eat well and enjoy my green smoothie addiction.
- find the time to exercise and make it a "non stressful" thing in my life.
- swim at least once a week.
- lower work stress and have more time to relax (downtime).
- get rid of the "belly" (keeping it real here ladies).

HOME
- purge and organize home.
- tackle unfinished tasks.
- get rid of more clutter.
- have fun decorating.
- keep workspace clean and organized.

WORK
- make more time to create.
- less computer time/more creative time.
- more focused and structured work time.
- balance designing and blogging.

I'd love to know what you're thoughts are for yourself for 2014. I feel like writing them down and sharing them helps in achieving them
and I can't wait to read your thoughts too. Join in the conversation. Don't be shy, coffee's on.

SEWING || STYLO MAGAZINE RELEASE!!!

STYLO - Issue 01 \\ Sewn by Very Shannon #stylo #sewing
That's my daughter above!!!! EEEEK!!!!
I RECENTLY GOT TO WORK ON A VERY FUN PROJECT FOR THE PREMIER ISSUE OF AN AWESOME NEW E-MAG CALLED STYLO!!!

Myself and a few other bloggers were given a print from the yummy new line called Glitz by Michael Miller Fabrics and asked to sew whatever we'd like from it. To say I had fun with this challenge is an understatement - I LOOOOVED it. As many of you know I used to be hairdresser before I had my girls. I get really excited about photo shoots/styling and when you combine that with a modern kids sewing magazine I was just plain giddy!

STYLO - Issue 01 \\ Sewn by Very Shannon #stylo #sewing

I knew as soon as I got the fabric in the mail that I wanted to let it do all the talking! And since it was for a magazine I knew I could have some fun with the outfit and styling. We went with an ankle length high waisted skirt (self drafted) and a knit cropped top (self drafted) paired with a simple necklace from H&M. I had some fun with my daughters hair and we opted for a sort of feminine faux hawk of sorts. We put on Roar by Katy Perry and had such a blast doing our photo shoot.  I knew I could have sewn one of my own patterns but I really just wanted to let loose and sew something strictly for sheer fun! It was so freeing and I can truly say my daughter had a say in every step of the way. She had input in the whole process and it was a great experience to work with her for STYLO!

You can see our little spread on pages 110-112 in STYLO. I highly recommend checking out the whole issue. It's filled with so many wonderful and talented people! Lots of gorgeous pics, sewing, tutorials, articles, free downloads and more! Tons of friends and their gorgeous kiddos too! So excited! I'm just thrilled that I got to be in it. I'm so proud of Celina (petit a petit and family) and Jess (The Sewing Rabbit) for putting STYLO together and bringing it to the sewing community! I cannot wait to see what's coming next!

STYLO - Issue 01 \\ Sewn by Very Shannon #stylo #sewing
STYLO - Issue 01 \\ Sewn by Very Shannon #stylo #sewing


// STYLO //
"...is the first fashion forward eMagazine centered around children’s sewing patterns and style. Our focus is on modern patterns, trends, fabrics, and clothes that your kids will love.

We have hand selected an amazing team of contributing editors to help make STYLO a smashing success, bringing their artistic visions to life in beautiful photographic spreads.  Showcasing some of our favorite sewing patterns from all around the world, indie designers to the Top 5, all in a fabulous editorial setting. As well as trend reports, interviews, tutorials, and more."

STYLO - ISSUE 01 \\ Very Shannon
Make sure you pop over to STYLO today and check it out! Happy sewing!!!!!

DIY || AIR PLANTS & SUCCULENTS DIY ROUNDUP

Air Plants & Succulents DIY Roundup \\ Very Shannon  - Brass Prism from HRUSKAAA

I LOVE AIR PLANTS.

For christmas this year Jane gave me a terrarium she made. I seriously was so freakin' excited to get these wee succulents in the most adorable glass shaped heart. I don't want them to die (i have a habit of killing houseplants), I like to spend time picking their dried bits off and cooing at them. That's normal right? I like that when I look at them all cozied up in their new home that it makes me smile. It was something I've always wanted but have never had time to actually make for myself.

This led me to my new found love of the Air Plant or what's known as the Tillandsia. They are the coolest plant I have ever heard of. You may have seen these amazing beauties all over pinterest because they are...well...just plain cool. They don't need dirt, soil or anything. You don't plant them. Can you believe that? They live off air! They get all the nutrients they need from the light and from you giving them a bath now and then. And you can pretty much put them in anything you feel like for display? Upside down, egg shells, vases, pods, driftwood, tea cups....etc. So neat right?! The kids are so into it and I have to say I haven't been this excited about plant life since I grew my first set of veggies (we still love that too).

So when I, of course, turned to trusty ol' pinterest to find out the ins and outs of air plants and succulents I got lost in the beauty of all the DIY projects and modern aesthetic of the air plant. I became even more infatuated with them. Then my friend got some and that was it. I was done. I whipped out to the garden store the next day and painstakingly chose 3 new babies to bring home. I'm going to name them (don't judge me..lol). I gave them a lovely and luxurious bath when they got home and now they are happily awaiting their new home. I can't wait to make it for them!

So since I spent wayyyy too many hours perusing all the cool air plant and succulent DIY's I thought to myself "I can't keep all this good stuff to myself! I must create a pinboard and a roundup". Yep, that's the brain of a blogger. Never hoard the good stuff to yourself. It's way more fun to get you all in love with air plants too!!!! Then we can all name them and you can chat to me about them.

Air Plant & Succulent DIY Roundup \\ Very Shannon

SO WHAT DO YOU SAY? WANT TO JOIN ME?
See below for some links to cool products, DIY's, holders, pods, macrame & more!

 // HIMMELI //
Air plants & succulents DIY Roundup // Very Shannon
// Brass Prisms picture at top of postleft and right from HRUSKAA //
- himmeli air plant holder diy from Smile and Wave.
- how to make himmeli via Martha Stewart.
- DIY modern himmeli.
- how to make your own brass himmeli on Swoon.
- DIY straw himmeli ornaments.


//  MACRAME //
Air plants & succulents DIY Roundup // Very Shannon
// Hangers left and right from HRUSKAA //
- how to make your own macrame hanger
- easy hanging planter from refinery 29
- rope into potted hanger on elise blaha
- diy plant hanger


// PODS //
Air plants & succulents DIY Roundup // Very Shannon
 // egg plant hangers / pods / mini planters //
- make your own easy plant hanger with egg shells
- egg shell garden DIY 
- diy wall garden favors
// GLASSWARE //
Air plants & succulents DIY Roundup // Very Shannon
 // air plant globes / hanging mason jar planters //
- how to make air plant globes
- hanging mason jar planters
- DIY tinted glass beach terrarium on Henry Happened

// SUCCULENTS //
Air plants & succulents DIY Roundup // Very Shannon
 // clay pots / succulent garden / concrete planters //
- how to make clay pots
- easy succulent garden
- DIY concrete planters
- pvc pipe succulent planters
- modern upcycled planters DIY
- recycled can succulent planters
- succulent tea cup tutorial
- planting a simple cacti garden on A Beautiful Mess


// HOLDERS //
Air plants & succulents DIY Roundup // Very Shannon
 // hanging air plant containers / air plant wall hanger / hive planter / rustic reclaimed wood hanger //
- hanging air plant containers DIY from Design Sponge.
- air plant wall hanger from BHG.
- DIY contemporary indoor garden
- air plant hanger DIY
- DIY painted pots
- gold leaf DIY succulent pots
- tiny pinch pots from Classic Play

NOW COMES THE HARD PART....TRYING TO DECIDE HOW AND WHERE TO PUT MY NEW AIR PLANTS.

I hope you enjoyed the roundup and found some fun new ideas for your plants at home! Do  you have a favorite DIY for succulents and air plants? Any tips to share? Leave them in the comments below and I'll add them to the post in our Readers Faves section!
Air plants & succulents DIY Roundup // Very Shannon
DIY eggshell planters from Le Robin's Nest

WANT SOME MORE AIR PLANT & SUCCULENT FUN?

Make sure to follow our Air Plant & Succulents Pinterest Board! I'll be pinning all the cool things I find for my new plants on there and you'll also find all the links from this post & more!!!

Happy planting & making!




GIVEAWAY || FAT QUARTER SHOP FABRIC GIVEAWAY!!

Fat Quarter Shop Fabric Giveaway || Very Shannon

I've been on a sewing kick lately and have some new projects to show you on the blog soon! I've been having lots of fun and I thought what better way to have you join me than to giveaway some new fabric!!!!  

 Who doesn't love new fabric right? One of our awesome sponsors Fat Quarter Shop is hosting today's exciting giveaway!!!! One of you lucky readers is going to win a lovely gift certificate to get some yummy new fabric from them! Whether you're looking to make a new quilt or an outfit you can find tons of fabric at Fat Quarter Shop! They've also got patterns, tutorials and lots more fun things you can join in with on their blog as well!

www.fatquartershop.com

One of my favorite things about Fat Quarter Shop is the way you can find fabric. I hate cutting and love buying precut bundles for my quilts. You can find all the specialty cuts bundled in all your favorite new fabric designs at Fat Quarter Shop. They also carry a wide range of solids as well. You can find fabrics sorted by designer, manufacturer, specialty cut and more! They also have great prices and good customer service! I buy from them regularly and have always had a good experience with shipping and I'm in Canada. Make sure you pop by and see all the new lovelies they just got in stock!

Fat Quarter Shop Fabric Giveaway || Very Shannon

YOU READY TO WIN SOME NEW FABRIC?
\\ PRIZE \\
- one lucky winner will win a $50 Gift Certificate to the fabulous Fat Quarter Shop!!! Wahoo!!! Thank you Fat Quarter Shop!

\\ HOW TO ENTER \\
- simply leave me a comment letting me know what fabric line you would buy if you won!
- bonus entry: like Fat Quarter Shop and/or Very Shannon on facebook and then leave a separate comment on the blog here letting me know you did that too!

\\ RULES \\
- you must leave a valid email address with your comment or you will be disqualified.
- giveaway is open until Sunday, January 19th, midnight (PST).

You can find all things Fat Quarter Shop below:


Good luck and a big thank you to Fat Quarter Shop for the generous and awesome prize! Happy fabric shopping!

KNITTING || STASH MAINTENANCE

Stash Maintenance \\ Very Shannon

I added to my stash. There. I admit it. I'm not ashamed. Ok, maybe I am a wee tad. 

I have enough yarn but sometimes a gal's gotta treat herself to some new lovelies just....well....just because. Our local LYS Beehive Wool Shop had a big boxing day sale on and I just couldn't pass on a good sale. There were too many new babies that wanted to come home with me. I am proud of myself though for not purchasing the gorgeous selection of Brooklyn Tweed they have in stock. It wasn't on sale so my weird though process meant that it wasn't ok to splurge on it but after seeing the new BT Winter 2014 Collection I'm glad I didn't buy any because now it means I can go in and get yarn for my favorite pattern from the collection. I'm all over that Channel Cardigan by Jared Flood. Dreamy! I need that on my body asap!

I also find it more fun to by yarn when you are with friends (ahem...enablers). I get a shopping high off of just watching them buy yarn. I love seeing us all go nuts over skeins and skeins of yummy yarn feeling content in the fact that I am not crazy and not the only one who can get THIS excited over yarn. We all spent a nice of chunk of time there and all came home with bags of new goodies. It was a lovely afternoon after all the xmas craziness. Yarn is good for the soul but what does that mean to our stash?

Madelinetoshdk - Stash Maintenance \\ Very Shannon

Well....I try to limit myself. I have one shelf that is just for yarn. Once it is full I'm cut off. On that shelf I have one level for yarn to just be stacked so I can see it. These are the ones I'm hoping to use in the near future and want to be inspired by. Then on 2 other levels I have 2 pretty turquoise baskets that I keep my WIP's in and other miscellaneous knitting goodies like my scale, sock blocker etc...and then on the bottom shelf I have 2 small plastic tubs. 1 tub is for all the leftover bits of yarn from projects that I want to keep (don't ask me why because I don't know yet. I just find it horribly hard to get rid of madelinetosh even if it's only a little poof of it left..haha) and the other tub is for skeins that I've had in my stash for longer that I haven't used yet. These I'm hoping to swap or maybe sell sometime so I can make room for more new stash. See how that works...lol.

I do try to remember though that I live in a condo. I don't have tons of room and my yarn is mostly in the open so I can't easily hide it from my eyes and well, I just start to get all fidgety if I have too much yarn staring at me all the time. I already don't have enough time in the day to get my work done never mind yarn making me feel guilty for not loving it enough ;) So this year I'm planning on trying to knit from the stash I now have (new babies included) and as I work through stash I can reward myself with new skeins (plus I have to save up for Vogue Knitting Live in March!!!!) Sounds like a doable plan and one I hope to stick too. Just don't ask me about my fabric....that is a whole other can of worms (hangs head in shame).

So in honor of the new year I'm going into phase "Stash Maintenance". Not a yarn diet, but maintenance. Anyone care to join me? C'mon now....you know you want to (ummm...need to). Don't make me do it alone...lmao. And after asking you so very nicely to suffer alongside me and not buy tons of new yarn till we use what we have I'm now going to show you my new lovelies....I know...twisted. But they are soooooo purdy. I had to show them all to you. It wouldn't be fair to hide them from the world in my dark bedroom.

// SWAN'S ISLAND
Swan's Island - Stash Maintenance \\ Very Shannon
SWANS ISLAND 100% ORGANIC MERINO WOOL FROM THE NATURAL COLORS COLLECTION \\ COLORWAY SHALE
- Swan's Island has been on my to knit with list for ages now. I finally caved in and scooped on this gorgeous skein of 100% organic merino (light fingering) yarn in the most lovely grey/green color. It was one of my new year's resolutions to knit with this company's gorgeous yarns! I could not put this skein down and literally refused to leave the store without it. And let me tell you  - the swatch I'm working on now is sooooo delicious. Like dreamy soft and so pretty! I can't wait to knit with it!


// MADELINETOSH
Madelinetoshdk - Stash Maintenance \\ Very Shannon
MADELINETOSH DK \\ COLORWAY DR. ZHIVAGO'S SKY
- Uhhh..hello...I  never go into the beehive and leave without some Madelinetosh. It's like an addiction. I've been wanting to add this colorway into my stash for ages and am so glad I did. I'm obsessed with this color - Dr. Zhivago's Sky! It's so pretty!

// MADELINETOSH AND INDIGO DRAGONFLY
Madelinetosh Vintage & Indigo Dragonfly - Stash Maintenance \\ Very Shannon
MADELINETOSH VINTAGE (LIGHT TURQUOISE) \\ COLORWAY BUTTON JAR BLUE & INDIGO DRAGONFLY SUPERWASH WORSTED \\ COLORWAY MY OTHER ORCA IS AN OTTER
-- These lovelies were gifted to me for my stash! Lucky me! The light turquoise which is Madelinetosh Vintage was a gift from my dear friend Hannah of Ummashin and the other 2 skeins from Indigo Dragonfly were from my parents :) Both are gorgeous and I'm happy to give them a new home.

// PATONS CLASSIC WOOL WORSTED
Patons Classic Wool Worsted - Stash Maintenance \\ Very Shannon
PATONS CLASSIC WOOL WORSTED \\ COLORWAY NATURAL
- remember my French Press Felted Slippers I showed on the blog on Monday? These skeins of Patons Classic Wool Worsted yarn are going to be a pair for a gift this month :)

// PATONS CLASSIC WOOL ROVING
Patons Classic Wool Roving - Stash Maintenance \\ Very Shannon
PATONS CLASSIC WOOL ROVING \\ COLORWAYS (LEFT) DARK GREY & (RIGHT) CHERRY
- These 2 skeins of Patons Classic Wool Roving are going to be KEATON hats for the hubs and for my oldest. They were both requested at xmas time.

Here's some other helpful posts we've done in regards to stash and WIP's to stay organized! 

KEEPING THE STASH ORGANIZED

:: YARN STASH BALL BANDS PRINTABLE
:: TOP 5 TIPS FOR CONQUERING YOUR WIP'S

Now it's your turn to spill the beans! What have you added to your stash lately? What yarns are you dying to get your hands on this year? Any tips for stash maintenance? Will you join me? 

P.S. You can get a sneaky peeky at my stash here on my instagram.

HAPPY 2014 & GIVEAWAY WINNERS!


Happy 2014 my friends!!!

I've missed you all! My lovely 2 week holiday is sadly over. I admit it's been a much needed and fun break but I have missed you guys. I hope you all had a lovely and wonderful holiday season and that so far 2014 has been good to you!

I promised you all before the holidays started that I would finally get around to announcing the winners of the last 2 of our giveaways!!! So to start off the new year let's give away some prizes!! Yay!

\\ VERY SHANNON PATTERN COLLECTION GIVEAWAY \\
Here are the winners of our Very Shannon Pattern Collection Giveaway! 3 lucky winners won my entire pattern library!!! Both sewing & knitting patterns!

| WINNER 1|  Sowing Stitches  | WINNER 2 |  Tanya  | WINNER 3 |  Karina

\\ HANDMADE WINTER eBOOK GIVEAWAY \\
Last month the new eBook from the Creative Mamas Collaboration released our first eBook entitled Handmade Winter: A Season to Gather, Make & Share! You can read all about the book here.

| WINNER |  Trishknits

Congratulations!!! I will be in touch with all of the winners in the next few days with your prizes!!

How was your holidays? Did you have a good holiday season? Did you make or start any new projects? Let's chat...I can't wait to hear how you have all been! 

PATTERNS || 2013 IN REVIEW & A SALE!

Keaton Hat Pattern || Very Shannon
KEATON HAT PATTERN (SIZES BABY - ADULT L) || BUY NOW

Merry Christmas my friends! I hope you are all having a wonderful and special holiday season. 

I'm not officially back at work till January 6th but couldn't resist popping in with those infamous year in review roundups. It was fun to sit back and look at the blog over the last year. I put together a wee roundup of all the patterns I released this year - both free & paid! For both sewing & knitting! I couldn't have done it without all of your loyal support so thank you so much!

<<<---------------------------HATS------------------------------>>>

Keaton Hat Pattern || Very Shannon
The Keaton Hat shown in child size. This pattern is available in sizes baby through to adult large.
Swift Hat Pattern || Very Shannon
The Swift Hat is great introductory knit into lace patterns! Fun and easy to memorize! Swift is part of the book JOURNEY but is also available as an individual pattern now as well.
Hannah Hat Pattern || Very Shannon
The Hannah Hat is made from super chunky yarn and is quick and fast to knit up! 


Dreiecke Hat Pattern || Very Shannon
Dreiecke was inspired by my love of HST's while quilting. This pattern is full of texture and is a fun knit!
Yarnster Hat Pattern || Very Shannon
The Yarnster Hat was named after my friend Arika. It's free, quick and an easy knit!

<<<-----------------------ACCESSORIES----------------------->>>

Barbara Cowl - Free Pattern || Very Shannon
The Barbara Cowl was designed for Sweet Georgia Yarns and named after my mom. It's so full of squish and comfort and knits up like a dream! It's also a freebie!
Lansbury Cowl Pattern || Very Shannon
Inspired by Angela Lansbury and Murder, She Wrote the Lansbury Cowl is full of fun twists and turns and is that perfect year round cowl.
Onward Shawl Pattern || Very Shannon
Onward is one of my fave pieces of the year. A shawl full of textural & directional stitches it's surprisingly easy to memorize and makes a great 1st shawl pattern. It's also from the book JOURNEY and is available now as an individual PDF pattern as well.
Camille Cowl Pattern || Very Shannon
Camille is cozy and unique cowl featuring a twist - it's own hood!
Emelia Scarf Tutorial || Very Shannon
The Emelia Scarf tutorial makes a great gift, first time sewing project and you get to draw your very own textiles if you'd like!
Jeni's Reversible Apron Tutorial || Very Shannon
Jeni's Reversible Apron tutorial is made only from fat quarters! It makes a cute stash project and is an easy sew!
Cate's Cowl Tutorial || Very Shannon
Cate's Cowl tutorial was one of my faves this year! Sewn using your fave knit fabric this cowl is not your typical infinity cowl - it features ruching on each end that's adjustable using ribbon ties! Love it!

<<<-------------------------GARMENTS------------------------->>>
Sally Dress Pattern || Very Shannon
I can't forget the Sally Dress! This vintage modern dress pattern that features a fully lined bodice, no closures, large pockets and sleeve options was a dream come true to release!
Antrorse Pullover Pattern || Very Shannon
Antrorse is my baby. My first knit garment design and also from the book JOURNEY. This pullover is such a pleasure to knit and also works up quickly. With a slimming silhouette and fun neck/pattern detail this is sure to be a staple in your wardrobe. It's now available as as an individual PDF pattern as well.
Sloane Jacket Tutorial || Very Shannon
Inspired by Ferris Beuller's Day Off the Sloane Jacket tutorial is also available.  Wish I could have worn this as a kid.

<<<-----------------------------HOME-------------------------->>>

Embrace Baby Quilt Tutorial || Very Shannon
Last but not least the Embrace Baby Quilt tutorial! I adore this baby quilt that is made from those larger leftover pieces of your stash. It's a great first time quilt to have some fun with your quilting and practice some easy piecing.
Such a fun year! And to say thank you to all of you for all of your support and to ring in the new year please enjoy a special SALE!!!! 

Use code "newyear" to save 15% off my entire pattern collection!!!! Woot Woot!!!! You can find all my patterns here in my shop - Very Shannon. Coupon code valid through till January 2nd, midnight, PST.

*Coupon code is valid in my etsy shop, ravelry shop and my website

Happy new year's and here's to another year filled with creativity and making! See you in the new year!!!! May it be even more fun thank 2013! xoxo

WISHING YOU ALL A HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON!

Happy Holidays || VeryShannon.com

Wishing you all a wonderful and lovely happy holiday season!

I'm so excited for this Christmas! I'm looking forward to spending some much needed time with my hubby and kiddos and family & friends! I hope your holiday season is filled with love, laughter and lots of handmade goodness!

I'll be taking a break (yay!) from now until Jan. 6th. It's the longest holiday time my hubby and I have had off together in years so we are very excited! I'll miss you guys but I'll be popping in here and there on social media so you can follow me along on there - especially instagram.

Much love to you all for being the most awesome readers ever! Thank you for everything this year and for all your continued support and love. You guys are the best and you mean so much to me!

Merry Christmas and see you all in 2014!!!! xoxoxoxoxo

P.s. I'll be announcing our Handmade Winter Winner & Very Shannon Pattern Giveaway Winners when I'm back! Thanks for your patience!

READING || SEW CLASSIC CLOTHES FOR GIRLS BOOK REVIEW

Sew Classic Clothes for Girls Book Review \\ Very Shannon

I'm so excited for today's book review of Sew Classic Clothes for Girls!
I am so gosh darn proud of the author of this gorgeous book - Lindsay Wilkes (from the blog The Cottage Mama)! She's a dear and special friend of mine and I'm beyond thrilled with all of her successes over the past few years. She's hardworking, loving, kind and a genuinely lovely and special woman. She deserves so much success and I'm just over the moon with her new book!!!!

Sew Classic Clothes for Girls Book Review \\ Very Shannon
Lindsay and I first started chatting years ago when she first started blogging and I've been a loyal and dedicated fan of her style and aesthetic ever since! She's got a special flair for fabric combinations, notions, design, and a style that has such a strong voice! She's also great at teaching and explaining techniques and how to's. So when Lindsay told me the news about her book Sew Classic Clothes for Girls: 20 Girls Dresses, Outfits and Accessories from the Cottage Mama I just knew it was going to be awesome! Now we all get to share in her wisdom and tricks & techniques!

Sew Classic Clothes for Girls Book Review \\ Very Shannon
Lindsay's patterns are just like the book says - classic. They are timeless styles that any little girl would be happy to have in their closet and any momma would be lucky to sew. The patterns in Sew Classic Clothes for Girls result in professional and clean finished garments - the kind I love! I love a gal who pays attention to finishing and the little details. Makes me happy.


The book is laid out so nicely as well. Let me walk you through it:

GETTING STARTED
Fabric Selection \\ Pairing Patterned Fabrics \\ Trims & Embellishments \\ Patterns & Size Selections \\ Tools of the Trade \\ Techniques
This section is always my favorite part in sewing books! I learn something new from everyone and Lindsay did a fabulous job teaching me a few new tricks! She covers some wonderful techniques and does it well! 
Sew Classic Clothes for Girls Book Review \\ Very Shannon

SMOCKS & FROCKS
Patterns for a top, frock, smock, a dress and a skirt.

YOU BET YOUR BRITCHES
Patterns for multiple capris & shorts and knickers!

BABY, IT'S COLD OUTSIDE
2 Adorable coat patterns!

A IS FOR A-LINE
3 patterns for a-line dresses & 1 top.

SUGAR, SPICE & EVERYTHING NICE
Patterns for 3 gorgeous dresses.

THE FINISHING TOUCH
Learn how to embellish a bib shirt, make a fabric covered headband, embellish a ruffle shirt & make a vintage style hair accessory!

Sew Classic Clothes for Girls Book Review \\ Very Shannon
This patterns in the book are accompanied by clear and colored photographs as well as well written instructions. I've made Lindsay's patterns before and her fit and instructions are always spot on.  She also gives you little hints and options for each pattern called "make it just sew". I really enjoyed these little boxes of info.

I highly recommend this book to any sewer looking to add to their collection some wonderful, lovely, classic and timeless patterns. The patterns in this book are so versatile and easy to customize to your taste and fabric choices. I'm so happy to have one on my shelf :) I can't wait to sew from it! First I have to get the girls to stop fighting over it! They love looking at it and trying to choose their favorites!

Sew Classic Clothes for Girls Book Review \\ Very Shannon
Sew Classic Clothes for Girls Book Review \\ Very Shannon

Thank you so much for having me along on your tour Lindsay. I adore you and from the bottom of my heart I am so proud and happy for you girl! It's been such a gift to be your friend and to be able to watch your dreams come true!! Love ya lots! xoxoxox

You can find Sew Classic Clothes for Girls here on amazon. It's also for sale directly on Lindsay's site here. You can find all things Lindsay and the Cottage Mama below:


BookTour The Cottage Mama Nancy Zieman Pat Sloan I Am Momma Hear Me Roar See Kate Sew The Sewing Rabbit Girl. Inspired. Craftiness is Not Optional Made Melly Sews Kojo Designs Craft Gossip The Sewing Loft U-Create The Train to Crazy Luvinthemommyhood Sew Classic Clothes for Girls

MAKING || MODERN HOLIDAY DIY ROUNDUPS!

Fern Living Christmas Tree Blanket
 fernliving christmas tree blanket
CHRISTMAS IS MY FAVORITE HOLIDAY OF THE YEAR.

I love being able to feel like a little kid and let all that special excitement fill our home! I feed off the kids joy and I just go for it! The first few years my hubby and I had xmas together we didn't have a lot of money for decorations and I made 90% of our ornaments (thank you martha stewart). Well not all of them have survived the last 6 years or so but some have and I treasure them. So this year I vowed to make a few new ones for our tree and do some annual Christmas crafting & decor for our home.

Life has been crazy busy over here and I got knocked over by a nasty flu bug. I like quick and fulfilling unless it's truly worth it :) So instead of doing 3-4 roundups like I usually do each year this time I decided to put them in one AWESOME roundup of what are my 5 fave choices for the year to possibly make in our home. Not everything will get done, heck I might not even get one done (I'm not a machine...lol) but I love making a good roundup for me to go back to for inspiration and more in one easy place.

<<<---------------------DIY WREATHS--------------------->>>
DIY Wreath Roundup || Very Shannon
geometric wreath tutorial \\ marshmallow wreath \\ snowflake wreath \\ duct tape wreath \\ pom pom wreath
First let's start off with one of my favorites - the wreath! Who doesn't love a wreath right? 
Such a statement piece that can so easily reflect your whole Christmas style in one piece! I have tried a few different wreaths but fell head over heels for this one which remains up on our wall all year round. So this year I thought I may add to our arsenal of wreaths. It's about time I think. Above are my faves for this year.


<<<-------------------DIY SNOWFLAKES------------------->>>
DIY Snowflakes Roundup || Very Shannon
paper snowflakes \\ star wars snowflakes \\ printable snowflakes \\ coffee filter snowflakes \\ fuse bead snowflakes

Next the snowflakes. We have a big crush on snowflakes in our house.
Each year since the girls have been babies we make a boat load of snowflakes and adorn the apartment with them. So fun! This year we decided to look into doing some "fancy" snowflakes instead of our usual winging it ones (though those are equally as fun). Above are some of my faves for the year:

<<<-------------------DIY HOLIDAY DECOR------------------>>>
DIY Home Decor Roundup || Very Shannon
wall art diy \\ honeycomb chandelier \\ honeycomb tree \\ paper party ball \\ ornament balloons
And ohhhh...the home decor! Lovely little jewels of diy to adorn your home with!
I have a thing for pine cones. I spread them all over the house year round. I think my hubs thinks I'm nuts but I still do it..lol. This year I thought to myself though "branch out a bit Shannon, try something new"...so I'm going to give it a shot. Above are some of my faves for the year.

<<<--------------------DIY ORNAMENTS-------------------->>>
DIY Ornaments Roundup || Very Shannon
diamond ornament \\ let it snow \\ felt ornaments \\ himmeli ornament \\ felt tree ornaments
Now - the ornaments. We can't leave out the ornaments! These can be the most fun to make!
Those first few years I made only my own ornaments were sure fun! I bought rolls of some awesome silver shiny wrapping paper and saved up for a month all of our used cardboard and set out to cut out ornament shapes from templates and then the same sizes from the wrapping paper. I painstakingly glued them to each piece of cardboard. Then for some special ones I would print out pics of us and the girls and glue them to the wrapping paper. Hole punch and hang with spare thread. Voila! Well last year I was too darn tired to make them. So store bought ornaments finally made their way to our house and we loved them too! So this year I'm going for a happy mix! A few handmade each year to add to our collection. I don't need to go nuts and do the whole tree if I just can't swing it. I think that's the trick with xmas - don't add too much too your plate. Just do what makes you happy. If it's stressful - skip it. It is afterall a happy time of year :) Above are some of my faves for the year.

<<<---------------CHRISTMAS TREE SKIRTS----------------->>>
DIY Christmas Tree Skirt Roundup || Very Shannon
bright & colorful \\ very bari tree skirt \\ chevron tree skirt \\ snowflake tree skirt \\ pom pom skirt
And last but not least the tree skirts - we can't forget those! Who wants a nude tree! Not me!
I admit for about 5 years I used an old white receiving blanket/sheet for a tree skirt...hangs head in shame and finally whipped one up last year. I loved it then and love it still. I waited all that time until I had the skills to make one I would really love. Above are some of our favorites for the year (ours included).

Want to keep track of all the other lovelies I will add during December? Follow my "Holiday Love" Pinterest Board to keep track of all the fun things I love during the holiday seasons!
HOLIDAY LOVE PINTEREST BOARD

What are your fave diy's of the year? What did you make for the holidays? Any fun ones you'd like to link up to or share? Happy making!!!

CRUSHES || RAPTURE BY PAT BRAVO

Rapture by Pat Bravo for #artgalleryfabrics || Very Shannon

I don't know about you but I've been feeling pretty cold lately. 

Winter is definitely here but that doesn't mean our fabric choices have to reflect the grey weather! I finally got my hands on the lovely Pat Bravo's new line for Art Gallery Fabrics - Rapture, and boy do I need myself a pina colada! This cheerful, colorful and yet soothing palette of prints just hit the spot for me during the endless days of rainy gloom we've been having. I swear I can feel the Miami breeze blowing! I love that Pat's prints always make me feel happy and that I can escape merrily into my imagination and create with them! They make me feel so creative and inspired! If you pop by AGF to check out Rapture make sure you don't miss the free Blissful Quilt Pattern Pat released as well. So pretty!

Rapture by Pat Bravo for #artgalleryfabrics || Very Shannon

Powered by Issuu
Publish for Free

I was so excited when I saw my Patricia Cowl (named after Pat) in the Rapture Look Book shown above (you can also see it in the pics below)! Doesn't it look so awesome! The Patricia Cowl is a free tutorial I did for Art Gallery Fabrics this year and you can find it here. It is seriously one of my favorite go-to gifts to sew.
Rapture by Pat Bravo for #artgalleryfabrics || Very Shannon
Img Src - Art Gallery Fabrics
Want to see some of the prints close up?

Rapture by Pat Bravo for #artgalleryfabrics || Very Shannon
 You can find all things Rapture and Pat Bravo below:


I'm gearing up for a lovely and long winter break this year and can't wait to get sewing with this pretty bundle! This is the first year in a very long time (and I mean like years time) that the hubs has had 14 days home in a row with us! We are so very excited! So after this week I won't be popping up in this space until January 6th. 2 week vacay for me! I can't wait!!! Wahoo!

I plan on filling it with family, fun, fabric, yarn, sleep, coffee, yummies, friends and more! But don't worry - there is still this week! Make sure to pop by our facebook page today for a fun surprise and also for an awesome book review, giveaway winners and more this week on the blog!

And did you notice anything new around here? That's right!!! We got a new look!!! I've been working madly away in the background updating and revamping the blog! You may have noticed that the "luvinthemommyhood" banner is gone. I'll chat more about that and what to expect for 2014 this week on the blog. I can't wait to share it all with you guys! I hope you like the new look as much as I do! I'm loving it!

But wait, before you go, tell me which which print you love from Rapture! Are you loving this line as much as I do? What would you make with Rapture?

PATTERN || THE KEATON HAT (CHILD VERSION)

Yesterday I released my new hat pattern KEATON and couldn't resist showing some pics of my little one wearing her KEATON hat! My heart just melts. There is something so adorable about a kid in a chunky slouch hat! Adorable!!!!



KEATON is available in 6 sizes - baby, toddler, child/teen, adult s, adult m & adult l! Wahoo! You can make one for every one in your family & all your friends too!

Tons of colors, stripe 'em, color block 'em, add a pom pom or make one without - doesn't matter - they are all fun! Plus this is an awesome beginner pattern and so quick to make it's ideal for gift knitting!



This is the first hat my husband and both kids have ever asked me for. It's a Christmas miracle! Now if you are a knitter you will understand how much this means. I was so excited that I have at least 2-3 more KEATON's ready to go over holiday break! I think I may need to get a family portrait with us all wearing them...that would be so dorky but also hilariously cool...lmao.


THE KEATON HAT PATTERN FEATURES:


:: clear and easy to understand instructions

:: bright & colorful photography

:: 6 sizes - Baby, Toddler, Child/Teen, Adult S, Adult M & Adult L

:: 2 page color PDF pattern

:: a great knitting experience

KEATON is available to purchase at the following:

  1. RAVELRY 

  2.  ETSY 

  3. VERY SHANNON



I'm dying to see some of your kidlet KEATON's pop up! Make sure you share pics when you are done making yours!!!!

What yarn would you make your KEATON in? Color? For who? Let's chat knitting! It's Friday!!! Wishing you all a wonderful, fun, hug, snuggles, laughs - filled kind of weekend topped off with coffee, tea and lots of making :)

NEW PATTERN || KEATON HAT PATTERN!!

I've found my new favorite hat. You know the one that you want to make in 10 colors and actually find yourself hoping the weather stays cold so you can wear all the time? That's the one.


keatonhat.jpg

The KEATON hat is here! And guess what - this bulky weight ribbed hat comes in sizes Baby, Toddler, Child/Teen, Adult S, Adult M & Adult L!!! Wahoo! Now you can make one for all your friends and family and just in time for xmas cause this hat is quick, fast and super easy! Takes 120yds or less (including pom pom) and knits up with so much squish I have it on word that one of my testers even slept in hers!!! 



I've been thinking for a while now that my Mallory Cowl needed a hat to go with it. I have so many sewers wanting to learn how to knit and other new knitters needing a great easy hat to make that I just knew KEATON would be a great go to pattern for them.

The pattern is written in an easy format, with technique options, a great cast on to learn, links to helpful videos and more! I mean really....who doesn't love a pom pom right? And a pom pom on a slouch hat is a win win in my book. I suck at making pom pom's but I still love 'em. 

I really want new knitters to feel brave and embrace learning new techniques. Don't be scared - just jump in! That's how we all learn and I'm still learning too! It's fun, I promise and I'll be there cheering you on! Plus if you are a more experienced knitter this is a great hat to whip up for kicks and style. You can easily make it more/less slouchy, mix up colors, stripe it...and more! 



I used Quince and Co.'s Puffin (shown in Clay) for the one without the pom pom (adult sized) (you all know how much I adore Quince and Co!) and the others were both in Patons Classic Wool Roving (shown in Taupe and Plum) which has the exact same gauge for me! Wahoo! You seriously can't go wrong with either of these yarns! Both are great bulky, super soft and squishy yarns! But don't worry, KEATON looks great on other types of bulky too! My testers tried a variety of bulky yarns and they all looked just as good!


THE KEATON PATTERN FEATURES THE FOLLOWING:


:: clear and easy to understand instructions

:: bright & colorful photography

:: 6 sizes - Baby, Toddler, Child/Teen, Adult S, Adult M & Adult L

:: 2 page color PDF pattern

:: a great knitting experience

KEATON is available to purchase at the following:

  1. RAVELRY 

  2.  ETSY 

  3. VERY SHANNON



But wait...aren't my models just so darn purdy? I owe them so bad. It was freeeeeeeeezing cold when we did our photo shoot and Carly of the blog "Style Snapshot" and Kate of "Victoria's Wardrobe" so kindly agreed to come out and brave the weather for me. These 2 stylish gals are friends and fashion bloggers in the city I live. I loooovvve the KEATON on them. I asked them to wear what they would wear with the hat and I love how the overall look turned out! So fun! Plus I have to admit I want to steal Carly's boots and Kate's jacket....heck I want both their outfits. I owe ya one ladies - you're both stunning! Be sure to check out both of their blogs for upcoming posts on what they wore with the hats.


keatonhat.jpg

Want to see the smaller version? You can see pics of the child version here. You can also see more pics on www.veryshannon.com. I've already gotten a request from the girls for 2 more and 1 for the hubby and another for me. I see lots and lots of ribbing in my future. Good thing they are fast to make :)



Keaton PDF Knitting Pattern
$5.00
Add To Cart

I hope you enjoy the pattern and I cannot wait to see some KEATON's pop up! If you make one please share your pics with  me! I would love to see them! Happy knitting and thank you for all of your support! xoxoxo

GIVEAWAY || VERY SHANNON THANK YOU PATTERN GIVEAWAY!

Thank You Pattern Giveaway! || Very Shannon

I am so grateful to each and every one of you. Thank you for reading and for being the best readers ever!

As promised when we reached 6,000 facebook likes I would host a giveaway for you all! So here it is! I'm keeping it short and sweet and easy to enter! I've been busy working in the background on a new look for the blog that's coming very soon and also a new pattern is coming out this week - yay!!!!! Can't wait to show you all!

|| THE PRIZE ||
Three (wahoo!) lucky winners will win my entire pattern collection (includes both sewing & knitting)! You can see all my patterns here on my website www.veryshannon.com

|| HOW TO ENTER ||
- simply leave me a comment below letting me know which of my patterns is your fave.
- bonus entry: follow me on facebook , twitter, and/or sign up for our free newsletter and then leave me another comment letting me know you did so.

|| THE RULES ||
- A valid email must left in each comment or you will be disqualified. Giveaway is open until Monday, December 16th, 2013, midnight, PST.

Thank You Decal || Achor Decal Co.
thank you decal || anchor decal co.
Good luck and thank you again from the bottom of my heart for reading. It means more than I can type here. I heart you guys.

MAKING || HANDMADE WINTER eBOOK RELEASE & GIVEAWAY!!!!

Handmade Winter eBook || A Creative Mamas Collaboration
EBOOK ||  BUY NOW
I'm so excited to tell you all about Handmade Winter - a very special project that I was so lucky to be involved in!

Handmade Winter: A Season to Gather, Make & Share eBook by the Creative Mamas Collaboration is here! I've been drooling over my copy ever since I got to see it! Such an amazing and wonderful collaboration of talented ladies and I feel so honored to be included! This gorgeous eBook just shines with the love and passion for home, family, handmade and inspiration. Every page just begs you to turn to the next one. The cover alone makes me want to curl up on the couch with my fave quilt with the fireplace on and a cup of tea in hand, to sit and reflect and read this special eBook.

Handmade Winter eBook || A Creative Mamas Collaboration

The talented women who worked to bring Handmade Winter to all of you are some of the most inspiring, loving and generous women I've had the pleasure of meeting and working with. It was so fun to see what everyone brought to the table and what ideas sparked from all of our conversations. The end result was above and beyond what I could have imagined and I'm just blown away by the sheer awesomeness of these gals! The words gather, make & share truly resonate with all of us creative mamas on a daily basis and we're so excited to share this book filled with recipes, crafts, sewing, jewelry, essays, poetry and more with all of you!!!!

Would you like to see more of the inside of Handmade Winter? Yay! Keep reading to see some sneak peeks of the eBook below!

Handmade Winter eBook || A Creative Mamas Collaboration
The eBook is easily broken down into 3 sections.

Under Gather you can find...

DRINK 
This was one of my favorite sections of the book! I seriously am trying every one of these bevvies! Each one is more delicious than the last! I think I squealed with delight when I saw these. I'm always on the lookout for a new "adult" bevvie during the holidays.
EAT
From soup, salad, veggies, chicken & more you cannot go wrong with any of these recipes!
SAVOR
Cookies, masala chai, and did I say cookies? LOL! This section is just delish!
HOST
Learn how to host a favorite things party as well as a winter cookie exchange.

Handmade Winter eBook || A Creative Mamas Collaboration
 Handmade Winter eBook || A Creative Mamas Collaboration

Then we come to MAKE...

There are so many fun crafts and goodies to make. Walnut fairies, leather jewelry, chalkboard blocks whimsical winter decorations and more!

And under SHARE...

You've got my super fun quilted coasters (4 different patterns), cushions, felted tablet cover, child's maxi skirt...and the list goes on!
Handmade Winter eBook || A Creative Mamas Collaboration
That's not it though! In between the projects and recipes there is gorgeous photography, essays, and poetry. It truly is a gorgeous eBook.


http://www.e-junkie.com/264210/product/493389.php
HOW MUCH IS IT & WHAT'S INSIDE?
For just $15.00 you can get the Handmade Winter eBook filled with 50+ patterns, tutorials, recipes, crafts and more!!! So much good stuff to keep you making all through the winter season. To see the entire Handmade Winter Table of Contents for all projects included, click here. 

WHO ARE THE CONTRIBUTORS?
21 talented and creative women came together to form Handmade Winter (including myself)...



|| HOW TO ENTER ||
Simply leave me a comment letting me know what your favorite thing to make/bake/cook during the winter season.

|| RULES ||
You must leave a valid email address in your comment or you will be disqualified. Giveaway is open until Sunday, December 15th, 2013, midnight PST.

I hope you all enjoy a Handmade Winter as much as we did putting it together. It's such a special collaboration and I'm so excited for you all to see it!!! Find out more details and purchase your own copy of Handmade Winter here for just $15! Enjoy!!!

You can always keep track and join in with us and the other creative mamas on social media using hashtag #creativemamas and #handmadewinter on Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, Facebook & more!

Handmade Winter eBook || A Creative Mamas Collaboration