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Upcycling old t-shirts into stuff

Ever since I learned how to make t-shirt yarn years and years ago, I’ve been obsessed with upcycling old t-shirts. I’ve made baskets and rugs and toys and I can’t even remember it all. It has also inspired me to save the ankles from old socks because I one day wanna turn them into a really awesome quilt! This rug I’m trying to make for the kitchen though has been a really tricky one, because I want a rectangle. I […]

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Metric to UK to US crochet hook conversion chart

The size of a crochet hook corresponds to specific weights of yarn, and crochet patterns usually list a suggested hook size to help you make the pattern as close to the original design as possible. Yarn labels also list a hook size or range of sizes that are recommended to work with that particular yarn, though these tend to show for knitting needles (but the size is the same for crochet hooks). Crochet hook sizes are not completely standardised. Crochet […]

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How to knit traditional woollen socks for beginners

There are many ways to knit socks. Toe-up, two at a time, flat using two needles, and magic loop. This step-by-step guide shows you how to knit a pair of socks the traditional way. Why? Because this is a time-proven method that will fit anyone. You can knit your own socks in the colour of your choice; one or more. In the illustrations I’ve signified each step with a change of colour, to make it easier to see the different […]

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Common knitting abbreviations glossary

Confused by all the abbreviations in knitting patterns? Yep, me too! Here’s a handy list to help you navigate your patterns! Abbreviation Explanation alt alternatively approx. approximately beg beginning bet between bl. back loop bo bind off ch chain circs circular needles cn cable needle, cable stitch holder co cast-on dec, decs decrease, decreases EON end of needle EOR end of row FC front cross FL front loop foll following, follow g st garter stitch grp, grps group, groups incs […]

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What is knitting a test swatch and why do you do it?

Knitting a test swatch is an important step in the knitting process, especially when following a specific pattern or when using an unfamiliar yarn. A test swatch is a small sample piece of knitting, usually a square, that you create before starting your main project. You can also use it to test a pattern (for instance my purl is much looser than my knit, and it helps to know how much I have to adjust). The primary purpose of a […]

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What is Print On Demand (POD) & why is it good for independent artists?

Print on demand (POD) is a business model where products, such as books, apparel, and home decor, are manufactured and printed only after a customer places an order. This means that items are not pre-produced or stocked in large quantities. Instead, they are created on an individual basis as per customer demand. For artists, print on demand eliminates the need for large upfront investments in inventory, storage, and fulfilment. This allows independent creators to enter the market with minimal risk […]

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25 quotes about kindness to delight you

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Being kind not only has a direct effect on others, but it has a positive impact on yourself as well. Everybody can use a little bit of kindness in their life. By extending kindness to others, you not only brighten their day but also create a ripple effect of positivity in the world. Acts of kindness can be as simple as offering a genuine smile or a kind word to someone who may be going through a difficult time. Research […]

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How to practise self-witnessing

woman wearing gray long sleeved shirt and black black bottoms outfit sitting on gray wooden picnic table facing towards calm body of water at daytime

Self-witnessing is a powerful practice that allows us to delve deep into the intricacies of our inner world. By consciously observing our thoughts, emotions, and actions, we gain valuable insight into our own psyche. This introspective process aids us in uncovering the underlying motivations behind our behaviours, unravelling the complex web of perceptions that shape our reality. Through self-witnessing, we cultivate a heightened sense of self-awareness, becoming attuned to the subtle patterns and dynamics that govern our thoughts and emotions. […]

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How to make the omelette from “The Bear”

A few times a year there’s a new show (or season of a show) that the internet obsesses over, and this time it’s The Bear–Season 2. And with good reason. In case you haven’t had a chance to watch it yet, you have this one great omelette scene to look forward to. I’m talking about this one: How to make the omelette (but with a twist) Ingredients: Instructions: Steps included in the show, but which I found unnecessarily fancy: Heat […]

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How to crochet a donut

These donuts are super flexible and you can make them in any size – from amigurumi to giant donuts! To change the size of the donut you can do several things; change the size of the yarn, change the size of the crocheting hook and/or change the size of the starting chain. I use donut projects as a way to use up leftover yarn, so what yarn I use varies. This pattern is for the kind of donut shown in […]

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What is money manifestation journaling?

Money manifestation journaling is a powerful and transformative practice that can significantly enhance your relationship with money and attract financial abundance into your life. By engaging in regular journaling sessions, you can tap into the incredible power of your subconscious mind to manifest the wealth and abundance you desire. To begin your money manifestation journaling practice, find a quiet and comfortable space where you can fully immerse yourself in the process. Start by setting specific intentions for the financial goals […]

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20 journaling prompts for the dark feminine in you

The “dark feminine” is a fascinating concept that has captivated the realms of psychology, mythology, and spirituality. It delves into the depths of the female psyche, exploring attributes and qualities that are traditionally deemed darker, more enigmatic, or even negative in nature. This concept serves as a contrasting counterpart to the more commonly celebrated aspects of the feminine archetype, such as nurturing, gentleness, and compassion. When we explore the realm of the dark feminine, we enter into a multifaceted realm […]

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10 prompts to help you find your shadow self

Self-reflection is a crucial first step. Set aside dedicated time for introspection and think deeply about your past experiences, emotional triggers, and recurring patterns in your life. Explore any aspects of your personality that you might be repressing or denying. Maintaining a journal can be incredibly helpful. Write about your fears, insecurities, and unresolved conflicts. Allow yourself to express your innermost thoughts without judgment or self-censorship. Engaging in mindfulness activities such as meditation or deep breathing exercises can significantly aid […]

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What are the most common intrusive thoughts for autistic adults?

Intrusive thoughts can vary widely from person to person, and they are not necessarily tied to being autistic. However, autistic adults or those who are highly sensitive to the emotions and energies of others, may experience intrusive thoughts related to their empathetic nature. Common intrusive thoughts for autistic adults might include: Excessive worry about others. Autistic adults can worry deeply about the well-being and feelings of those around them. This can lead to intrusive thoughts related to concerns about the […]

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14 journaling prompts so that you can cultivate emotional intelligence

Emotional Intelligence is a crucial facet of understanding both ourselves and others. It’s the bridge to effective communication, empathy, and self-regulation. One of the avenues to develop emotional intelligence is through the practice of journaling, a reflective activity that nudges us to dive deep into our emotional realm. Journaling cultivates emotional intelligence by helping you identify emotions, enhancing your self-awareness. Over time, this reflecting on emotional responses helps you to manage them more effectively. And when you understand your own […]

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