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On the Needles: The Aadi Cowl

This is my latest thing: The Aadi Cowl.

Pattern creation is a bit of a process. I don’t always know what I want to design and sometimes I have to design when I don’t want to design anything. A good chunk of the business is design and making so while it’s always a blessing, sometimes it’s also a lot of work.

So, I do inspirational tours of pattern sites and Instagram. I see what others are doing and if my mind says ‘That looks interesting.” I will take a moment to see if it really is. That’s how it went with the cowl. It was the first thing I saw on the tour and I wondered if a cowl would be worth the design investment. I didn’t sell a lot of cowls at designbcb but I did sell a few during the last craft show season. Yes, it would be worth it.

First decision made. Great. Next, knit or crochet? This choice was pretty easy. A crochet cowl makes no sense to me. I went through my catalog; all the cowls are knit. Every single one. Why doesn’t a crocheted cowl make sense? Don’t know. But the good thing about being a knitter/crocheter and a designer is that nothing has to make sense to anyone but you. OK, the pattern needs to make sense but getting to the pattern is quite personal. Knit, it is.

Next, what stitch? This is important because the stitch is the personality of the piece. Lace is decorative. Stockinette can serve more than one purpose. A more substantial stitch becomes more specific. Since these pieces are primarily for the craft show and they take place in November and December, Winter gift giving is on the minds of shoppers and that will require the personality of the piece to be warm.  The trend is going toward chunky and hefty. I pull out my stitch book and leaf through it and I don’t find what I’m looking for. That means heading to the Google and asking for lofty knitting stitches. 

Turns out lofty is relative. In this instance, lofty translated to chunky and that led me to brioche. One more  decision done.

What shall I name this child? The process I go through to name a pattern could be a post all it’s own. Suffice it to say it involves the Webster’s dictionary, the Baby Names.com site, the alphabet and how I’m feeling that day. In this instance, Aadi means beginning and this is the first design of the season, So, there you go.

What yarn?  This was also relatively easy. Because I know I am going to make more than one of these cowls, I can use worsted and chunky weight yarns. It won’t matter which I use for the pattern because it can be adapted to either by a change of needles and change of cast on stitches. The technique remains the same.

Doesn’t matter to me which one goes first so I walk over to the yarn and pull down a ball from the shelf and off I go. I pull some needles one size larger than the yarn recommends to add some more loft and then I am ready to do the design work. 

The first thing I teach people when they are learning to knit or crochet is to learn to read your work. There can be two knitters using the exact same materials and the exact same stitch and the work will look different. Learning what you single crochet and purl stitches will help you pick up where you left off when you put your work down or tell you where made a mistake. It will also teach you that everyone is different and your work is your work and it looks just fine. It helps me as a designer to make decisions regarding drape, gauge and other considerations.

For this pattern, it came in handy because I had a couple of dropped stitches that I didn’t catch before I was a few rows away from them. It wasn’t until I took the time to read the stitches that I discovered the culprit of placing my needle in the wrong spot. Know yourself, Know your stitching, Increase the skill. Increase the confidence. Increase the joy.

The pattern is simple enough to memorize but you do need to pay attention while working on it. I was able to work on it while attending zoom meetings but it involved not always looking at the screen. That might be considered rude to some but there are a couple of us who work on projects and the class is fun, educational and satisfying.

If you’d like to knit it. It can be found here.

Do you have a favorite knit or crochet tip? Please feel free to share it in the comments. I would love to learn a thing or two.

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Hello Again

Hello again….or for the first time!

It’s not the new year – though it’s coming on fast…but this is a new beginning. Snuggle up on the couch or your favorite chair, get that mug of tea or coffee (cuz I drink coffee now), get out the hooks and needles and your favorite fiber (acrylic is not only welcome but encouraged!) and welcome aboard the Last Train to Knitsville.

Knit, crochet, reading, cooking. loving on family and friends and going out to restaurants and walking that journey of faith is what I am all about. I’ve been doing all those things for years and I am excited to reintroduce my blog as a way of sharing and doing all the things.

So, what will you find:

Knitting and crocheting – projects I’m working, patterns I’ve made and under the links for each of my shops, you will see the products for sale.

Reading – I am a member of a Chicago based book club. I will share what I’m reading and what I think of it.

Family/Friends – those everyday special things.

Cooking – what I’m making for dinner. We share the kitchen duties. I cook three days a week, Mr. Honey cooks three days a week and once a week we have date night. That leads to –

Restaurant reviews: every place I go. even the chain places because, believe it or not, there’s a difference between the Dunkin Donut on Belmont and the one on Grand and Harlem.

Faith – In great demand and seemingly short supply. But I have mine and it’s worth telling about.

What’s next? Several times a month there will be a new post. Could be a recipe, a new pattern or an observation about something I’ve read or experienced. It’s a time community and fun.

I hope we’ll have a conversation. I want this to be me and you.

So, tell me in the comments: what’s on your hooks, needles, reading table or stove top today?

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The Bask Spa Cloth Pattern

The Bask Spa Cloth Pattern.

Bask in the Simplicity: The Linen Stitch Wash Cloth Pattern

There’s something beautifully calming about creating everyday items with your own hands — especially when those items bring a little luxury into your daily rhythm. My Linen Stitch Wash Cloth pattern was born out of that idea: simplicity, texture, and care woven together in one small square.

Why Linen Stitch?

The linen stitch is one of my favorites for self-care projects. It’s easy to learn, yet it creates a woven texture that feels both timeless and modern. The fabric it makes is soft, dense, and perfect for gentle exfoliation — exactly what you want for a skin-care cloth.

It’s a reminder that beauty often comes from the basics. A single crochet, a chain, and the rhythm of repetition.

A Touch of Gold

The first version of this pattern — shown here in a rich golden cotton — practically glows. It feels like a bit of sunshine in your skincare routine. Of course, it looks equally lovely in soft neutrals, spa greens, or natural unbleached cotton.

If you’re making sets for gifting or your own market table, think in palettes: gold and cream for warmth, sage and white for calm, or gray and blush for an elegant spa aesthetic.

Double the Texture, Double the Care

This pattern also pairs perfectly with my Double-Thick Face Scrubbie. Together, they create a luxurious, reusable alternative to disposable wipes — a thoughtful choice for anyone who loves sustainable living and handmade comfort.

Package them in a small muslin bag or wrap them in kraft paper and twine for a beautiful gift set.

Pattern Details

  • Skill Level: Easy

  • Hook: I/9 (5.5 mm)

  • Yarn: 100% cotton, worsted weight

  • Size: About 7-9″ depending on fiber used

  • Stitches: Linen stitch (sc, ch)

  • Time: About 1 hour per cloth

Whether you’re crocheting to relax, restock your market booth, or create thoughtful handmade gifts, this little project delivers instant satisfaction.

Where to Find the Pattern

The Linen Stitch Wash Cloth Pattern is available as a digital download in my DesignBCB shop 

So grab your favorite cotton yarn, find a cozy spot, and let the gentle rhythm of linen stitch fill your hands — and your home — with handmade calm.

CrochetPattern #LinenStitch #WashClothPattern #EcoFriendly

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The Alpine Headband

The Alpine Headband  is a double knit  headband  that’s  a great  project  for  the  beginner  wanting  to  expand  their  skills. 

When I started designing Alpine, I wanted a headband that felt both classic and modern — something you could make in your favorite team colors, neutral shades, or rich jewel tones. The double-knit technique was the perfect choice. It creates a fabric that’s warm, squishy, and reversible — no wrong side, just two sides of cozy perfection.

This is a great way for me to use remnants. I have way more than I thought and the options for solid color with solid color or solid color with a stripe, ombre or variegated or any combination can be fun.

The pattern will be available in November at https://www.etsy.com/shop/designbcb.

About the Pattern

  • Skill Level: Confident beginner to intermediate

  • Techniques: Double knitting, working flat or in the round

  • Yarn: Worsted weight (small amounts of two colors)

  • Needles: Size 8 (5.0 mm)

  • Sizes: Adult (easily adjustable)

The pattern is designed to make the most of your scrap yarn, which means it’s a perfect stash-busting project. It’s also great for knitters who want to try double knitting without committing to a big project.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Reversible Design: Two sides, two looks.

  • Soft and Stretchy Fit: Keeps your ears warm without being bulky.

  • Quick Knit: Perfect weekend project.

  • Customizable: Switch colors for different moods or match your winter accessories.

 

 

 

 

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The Amira Triangle Cowl and Pattern

The Amira Triangle Cowl and Pattern

Whether you’re an experienced crocheter or just picking up a hook for the first time, the Amira Scarf pattern is here to bring warmth, texture, and effortless elegance to your wardrobe.

The Design

The Amira is a triangle cowl scarf that combines classic stitches with modern styling. It hugs the neckline like a cozy shawl, but wears like a cowl — no fiddling, no slipping off your shoulders, and no need to tie it. It’s finished with lush fringe for a bohemian flair that moves beautifully and adds interest to even the simplest outfit.

You can wear it over a chunky sweater, under your favorite coat, or as a statement piece with a plain tee — it’s as versatile as it is beautiful.

The Yarn

This pattern looks stunning in variegated yarns and natural tones, like the earthy gray-green ombre shown in our samples, or a solid color for a more minimalist look. Use any worsted-weight yarn that speaks to your personal style.

Easy-to-Follow Pattern

The Amira Scarf pattern is written with clarity and flexibility in mind:

  • Skill Level: Advanced Beginner

  • Techniques: Basic increases, double crochet, half double crochet, mesh stitching

  • Includes: Full written instructions, stitch counts, and tips for adding fringe

  • Bonus: It’s easily adjustable in size!

Where to Find It

You can grab the Amira Triangle Scarf Pattern soon on Etsy at designbcb. Whether you’re making one for yourself or creating heartfelt handmade gifts, the Amira Scarf is sure to be a favorite project.

✨ Stay cozy and creative. ✨

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The One Minute Rule

The one minute rule is the first ‘Try This at Home’ suggestion on the Happier podcast.

The one minute rule is simple: if there’s something that can be taken care of in a minute (or two) then just take care of it. For example, if the mail is piling up on the table and it would take just a minute or two to go through it – then take the minute or two and wipe it off the to do list.

Keep in mind this first episode of the podcast was ten years ago. This advice came out in 2015 though I heard it May. That being said, this was a rule I had already started before reading it in the blog. One of the things I found is between the time I tell Mr. Honey dinner is ready and he comes to the dining room, fixes the drinks and seats himself at the table, there are enough minutes for me to wash the pots, skillets or pans I used to make dinner. 

It actually feels good knowing when dinner is done all I have to do is put two dishes, glasses, forks and knives in the dishwasher and turn off the lights.

The one minute rules keeps procrastination from taking over and it does a great job silencing that voice in my head urging me to sit it out instead of taking action. I would surely have taken them up on this tip if I didn’t already do it.

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Yarn Goddess Tote Bag

The first Yarn Goddess tote bag is now available at Abbey & Lincoln!

 

If you’ve ever felt like crafting was more than just a hobby — more like a ritual, a meditation, a form of expression — this one’s for you.

I’m thrilled to introduce my newest release: the Yarn Goddess Tote Bag — a celebration of creativity, color, and the quiet magic of handmade art.

🌟 The Story Behind the Design

The idea came to me as I was reflecting on how so many of us — knitters, crocheters, weavers, stitchers — transform simple strands of yarn into something beautiful, functional, and heartfelt. In that moment, I imagined a goddess whose very crown was made of vibrant yarns — the ultimate maker, the muse behind every project.

This tote is my tribute to her. To us.

👜 Tote Details You’ll Love

  • Striking, original design on both sides:

    • One side features the Yarn Goddess — regal, radiant, and crowned in color.

    • The other side shares a poem close to my heart:

      I gather threads.
      I shape them into warmth.
      Each loop, a quiet spell.
      Each knot, a memory.
      I make what was never there.

  • Durable and roomy: Whether you’re hauling yarn to a stitch night, books to a book club, or groceries for the week — this bag is up for it.

  • Printed sustainably, made to order with love and care.

✨ A Bag for the Creators

The Yarn Goddess tote is more than just a pretty accessory — it’s a reminder of who you are when your hands are making, your mind is quiet, and your spirit is full. Carry it as a badge of honor, a source of inspiration, and a love letter to the creative soul in you.

💬 I’d Love to Hear from You

What does your creative process feel like? Do you have a “goddess mode” when you knit or crochet?

Drop a comment or tag me on Instagram @yo

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A More Perfect Day

A More Perfect Day (Not a Perfect One)

A while back, I read this article in Simplify magazine by Gretchen Rubin about happiness. Ever since, I’ve kind of been on the lookout for my own little happiness project. I didn’t know what it would be — but I figured I’d know it when I saw it.

Recently, the idea came back around, and I thought: What if, instead of chasing some grand, perfect life overhaul, I just tried to make my regular old day a little better? Not perfect. Just more perfect.

So, I grabbed a notebook and started jotting down what would need to happen in a day for me to feel good about it. Turns out, it boiled down to four things:
Environment, Financial, Physical, and Spiritual.

  • Environment: clean a space somewhere in the house

  • Financial: track what money’s coming in and going out

  • Physical: move my body somehow

  • Spiritual: listen to or read something that fills me up — not necessarily religious, just something good for the soul

I started making these my daily anchors. Now, more than 40 days in, I can honestly say my days feel better. My house isn’t spotless (let’s not get carried away), but I can walk into any room without instantly feeling stressed about the clutter. I’ve become a lot more aware of where my money goes — and even made a few decisions that’ll save me a nice chunk in the long run.

I’m still not working out like a fitness influencer, but I move every day. And somewhere along the way, I discovered Gretchen Rubin has a podcast called Happier. It’s been around for a decade and I’ve started from episode one. Each show kicks off with a little tip called Try This at Home, and a lot of the time, I realize I’m already doing some of the things they suggest. It feels good to hear, like a little nudge of “You’re on the right track.”

What I really love is that the podcast is called Happier — not Happy. Just like I’m after a more perfect day, not a perfect one. It’s a journey, not a finish line. And even though both Gretchen and her sister Elizabeth (who co-hosts) are high achievers they are not perfect and they own their shortcomings in a way I appreciate.

In fact, I’m officially declaring myself a Happier Guru. I’m going to check in here every so often and share what I’m learning about crafting a more perfect day — whether it’s from the podcast, an article, or just life doing its thing.

Oh — and I’m dusting off my old Simplify magazine issues too. I have a lifetime subscription (because of course I do) and naturally, I’ll start reading from the beginning. That’s just how I roll.

Another thing: when I first made my little list of what a more perfect day looked like, I was surprised to realize that knitting, crocheting, and being creative didn’t make the cut. It took me a couple of days to notice. I thought about squeezing it in, but it didn’t come up naturally, so I left it out. And you know what? I still knit and crochet — it’s my job — but I enjoy it more now that it isn’t constantly front and center in my brain. Deadlines and orders still exist, but I’m better at shaking off the stress when it creeps in. That, my friends, makes for a more perfect day.

Also, I didn’t originally put relationships on the list either. But if I’m being honest, Mr. Honey (that’s my husband, for those of you new here) is one of the reasons this all started. He casually mentioned something about my finances (nothing bad) and something about my eating habits (definitely bad) — and it made me pause. Made me reevaluate. And whether he knows it or not, I’m better for it. We’re better for it.

So that’s where I am. I’ll keep chasing happier, one imperfectly perfect day at a time. And if you feel like joining me — come on. We’re in this together.

Stay tuned.

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Fresh From the Earth Gift Pack

 Fresh From the Earth Gift Pack

There’s something grounding about reconnecting with nature — whether it’s tending to a garden, walking barefoot in the grass, or sipping your morning coffee under the open sky. Inspired by those simple, restorative moments, our Fresh From the Earth collection was created to bring a little of that earthy goodness into your everyday life.

👜 Fresh From the Earth Tote Bag

Perfect for farmers’ markets, library runs, grocery hauls, or just toting around your daily essentials, our Fresh From the Earth Tote Bag is a statement piece for the eco-conscious soul. Made from durable 100% cotton, this roomy tote features bold, modern typography and a rustic color palette that feels effortlessly chic.

Why you’ll love it:

  • Sturdy cotton canvas construction

  • Eco-friendly and reusable

  • Spacious interior for all your market finds and everyday carry

  • Clean, minimalist design that pairs perfectly with casual looks

🛒 Shop the tote here

👕 Fresh From the Earth Sweatshirt

Stay cozy and grounded in our Fresh From the Earth Sweatshirt, designed with the same earthy vibe in a soft, cozy pullover. It’s the kind of layer you’ll want to throw on for cool evening walks, trips to the farmers’ market, or weekend lounging. The crisp text graphic makes a clean, modern statement without feeling overdone.

Available in a range of sizes and colors to suit your style.

🛒 Grab your sweatshirt here

☕ Fresh From the Earth Mug

And for those quiet morning moments, our Fresh From the Earth Mug is the perfect companion. Whether it’s your sunrise coffee, afternoon tea, or evening cocoa, this sturdy ceramic mug adds a little nature-loving joy to your cup.

Dishwasher and microwave safe, with a beautiful clean design you’ll love using every day.

🛒 Snag your mug here

🌸 Build Your Own Earth-Loving Set

We love the idea of mixing and matching these pieces — pair the tote with the sweatshirt for your weekend errands, or gift a set to the nature-lover in your life.

The Fresh From the Earth collection was made for those who appreciate life’s simple, natural moments — and love showing it off in style.

Ready to embrace your earthy side?
Explore the whole collection in my shop and bring a little nature everywhere you go. 🌿

#FreshFromTheEarth #NatureInspiredStyle #EcoFriendlyLiving #EtsyFinds #ToteBagLove #ModernRustic

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A Stitch and a Prayer

A Stitch and a prayer. Knitting and crochet does that for me.

Knitting and Crochet as a Form of Prayer: Stitching with Intention and Faith

Knitting and crochet aren’t just creative hobbies — for many, they’re deeply spiritual practices. These crafts offer a beautiful way to slow down, quiet the mind, and connect with God through the meditative rhythm of stitches and patterns. Whether you’re crafting for yourself, a loved one, or someone in need, every loop and knot can carry a prayer, a blessing, or a moment of reflection.

The Spiritual Roots of Fiber Arts

Throughout history, women and men alike have used handiwork as a means of contemplation and prayer. From monks weaving textiles in monasteries to generations of grandmothers knitting blankets with prayers for each family member, fiber arts have long been intertwined with faith and intention.

Many cultures consider the act of making something by hand as a sacred activity — a tangible way to pour love, care, and blessings into an object destined to bring comfort and warmth.

How Knitting and Crochet Can Become Prayerful Practices

Turning your knitting or crochet into a form of prayer is simpler than you might think. Here are a few gentle ways to infuse your stitching time with spiritual meaning:

1. Begin with Prayer or Intention

Before you start, pause for a moment of silence or offer a simple prayer. Ask for peace, healing, or strength — whether for yourself or for the recipient of your project.

2. Stitch with Intention

As you work, dedicate each stitch to a specific thought or prayer. You might repeat a scripture verse, a mantra, or a simple blessing as your hands move. For example:

  • “Peace be with you.”
  • “God’s love surrounds you.”
  • “Heal and strengthen.”

3. Use Your Time for Reflection

The quiet rhythm of stitching makes it a perfect time for meditating on scripture, reflecting on blessings, or simply sitting in God’s presence.

4. Craft for a Cause

Many crafters create items for hospitals, shelters, or prayer shawl ministries. Knowing that your work will comfort someone in need adds a layer of compassion and purpose to your stitching.

5. Close with Gratitude

When you finish a session or a project, offer a prayer of thanks for the time, resources, and ability to create something with love and care.

The Prayer Shawl Ministry

One beautiful example of this practice is the Prayer Shawl Ministry, where volunteers knit or crochet shawls to be given to those going through illness, grief, or major life changes. Each shawl is made with prayerful intention and often blessed before being delivered.

This ministry reminds us that handmade items can be more than beautiful — they can be vessels of God’s love and comfort.

Final Thoughts

In our busy, modern lives, finding stillness and connection with God can be a challenge. Knitting and crochet offer a gentle, creative way to weave prayer into your daily routine. Whether it’s a few quiet stitches before bed, a project made for a friend, or a shawl destined for a stranger, every stitch can become a simple, sacred act.

Have you ever used knitting or crochet as a form of prayer or meditation? I’d love to hear your story in the comments!