Tonia's Macrame

No longer using Blogger

2006-06-25T13:12:00.000-04:00

Well, its not as if its a big suprise, I haven't used Blogger in such a long time. Though most of my friends are on MySpace, I've decided to stick with Live Journal. Originaly my journal was friends only, bt with my pregnancy (due date 25OCT) I've opened it back up again :)

So, you can find me at http://tonias-journey.livejournal.com/

TTFN
Tonia

Part One - Rainy Day Movie Wish List

2005-10-12T08:52:00.000-04:00

Lemony Snicket's A Series Of Unfortunate Events

The Phantom of the Opera

Constantine

Hide & Seek

Harold and Kumar Go To White Castle

Diary of Ellen Rimbauer - follow up to Stephen Kings Rose Red. I was very annoyed that they left out a look of the explainations for certain hauntings in the TV mini series. This movie is supposed to explain it. I'm not expecting it to be good though

The Eye - Chinese Horror

The Eye 2 - Chinese Horror

Blood: The Last Vampire - Japanese anime

Whispering Corridors - Korean Horror

Memento Mori - Korean Horror

Wishing Stairs - Korean Horror

Marcus is 2!

2005-10-10T16:18:00.000-04:00

Two years ago on 09 October 2003 - I did the following

Went to Work 9:00am - 5:00pm
Waddled my way to the train station (5 min walk turned into 15)
Endured more comments at the train station how I look like I'm going to give birth any minute
When I got home DH cooked me perogies (sp?)
DH went to bed at 9:00pm
I played bad girl and went to bed at 10:00pm
Woke up at 11:30pm thinking I had to pee
Got to the hospital at 11:45 - freaking out because Marcus was 5 weeks early
Gave birth at 1:00 am 10 October 2005, 5 lbs 15 oz

I'm going to be a WAHM!

2005-10-06T14:41:00.000-04:00

WAHM = Work at Home Mom

Its offical... my company will be offering their employees the option to work from home in about 6 months or so. This is both exciting and very scary at the same time.

It's easy enough to get into the mindset to leave home and go to work, but how am I going to do this at home? I'm often very lazy when I'm home and I just want to relax! LOL Well... at least I'll be able to answer phone calls in a more relaxed state!

YEAH! I don't have to wear a bra!!!

So it looks like they will be giving us the computers that we currently work on to bring home. They will pay for the DSL connection. I'll have to rearrange my already small bedroom for the additonal computer. My husband aleady has ideas on how he wants to do this. He is incredibly excited about this.

Also... it will be a huge savings of money for me as well. I won't have to pay for gas, and my insurance will go down to an unbelievable amount. Right now I pay $389.30 for 6mths with AllState. When I work from how it will go down to $50.00 per 6mths for FULL COVERAGE!!! Yipee!!! Thats for driving under 7,000 miles a year. I just found out... and even my husband doesn't know this yet. This means more money to save when I go full time next year.

*jumps for joy*

What a crazy life I live

2005-08-08T10:04:00.000-04:00

Its amazing to know that as soon as it feels that things are turning around and getting bit better, a new challenge arises.

This month my husband and I are going to the ren faire, with his friend Shauna, how at this time is approx 7/8 mths preggers. I haven't been to the ren faire in NY since before I was pregnant and i really miss it.

I'm hoping to also go with my other friends to the faire, but their lives are just as crazy, and I'm not sure its going to happen.

We decieded that this month we were going to go, because our car insurance is paid up, so we don't have to shell out $170 at the end of this month. We have even made it a point to get out of the house for our drives on Wednesdays, all three of us, because its just so relaxing.

Then, my wonderful, handsome son. Who will be 22 mths on 10 August deceided he was going to cause troubles at night and not go back to sleep once he woke up. My husband told me since what I was doing did not work (No Cry Sleep Solution) that it was time to try and let him cry it out. Lets just say it has not been a good week.

Then last night, Marcus deceided to climb out of the crib. Okay, picture this. My son is almost 22mths old. He is already 3 ft, 2in tall and probably about 32lbs. I watched him climb out of the crib, and he made it seem as if he was climbing out of a bed. *sigh*

My husband (I love that man!) told me to go to sleep, and spent the entire night in the room with him, to make sure he didn't crawl out. He told me this morning he is going to do that for the next week or two, and see how things turn out. If things turn out good, he is going to open the toddler door on the front of the gate and then see how that works. Then if THAT works good, he'll convert the crib into the bed.

Hopefully this week will go much better.

Been neglecting this blog

2005-07-30T15:30:00.000-04:00

Lately I've been overly stressed because of money problems in my family. Its been a very hard couple of months. I've even had to put my macrame projects on hold because I just can't afford the hemp anymore.

Because I had a friend that had a blog at livejournal.com I decieded to sign up there to check it out. This new blog is at http://www.livejournal.com/users/tonias_journey/ but is currently has restricted view. If you have a livejournal account and I know you just drop me a line, and I'll add you to the list.

So far I really like it because it has a better community set up then blogger. However, I miss the ease to change the blogger template. I'm still trying to figure out LiveJournal and I'm not willing to pay for the ease of changing the template.

The only thing I've really been doing lately is creating graphics as you can see below.

Its doesn't cost anything to do graphics! LOL

Well, i just wanted to drop a note just incase someone came across here wondering what happened to me.

Blessings to all!

London on my mind....

2005-07-07T20:23:00.000-04:00

A long time ago someone asked me that if there would be a day in which racism did not exist. As a black women I know how long and deep hate can go, and my answer was absolutely not. The person who asked the question did not like my answer.

The reason behind my answer was because there will always be someone in this world who feels that they can dominate another by fear or violence. Unless this world is truly united regardless of race, creed, or religion, racism, hate crimes, and terrorism will still exist.

My heart goes out to the victims in the attacks in London today. Its hard to put into words what I'm feeling today about this whole situation. I'm just happy that the death toll is not very high. It could have been a whole lot worse. The UK is a strong country, and they have dealt with this in the past. I know they will overcome.

Blessings to all that have been affected by this.

Experimentation can be fun!

2005-07-04T16:20:00.000-04:00

You may click on the picture for a better view. Just hit your back button to get back to this site.

I wanted to make a few more cuffs for myself, but I was running out of ideas. Even though I didn't have any grand plans for this piece, and as you can tell is unfinished, but I do have a few ideas that I can work with now.

I used wire as the base of starting and finishing the bracelet which I really like. I can hang beads off the ends, and even use wire as decorative spacers.

I think the most annoying thing about this project is that now I'm out of string! Yikes... and with no money in the account, all I can do is think out my next idea and try to put it to paper.

Oh well!
Happy 4th of July!!!

What Naughty My Little Pony Are You?

2005-07-02T21:55:00.000-04:00

You Are Opium!

You like to have fun and enjoy life. Reeeeeally enjoy life. If it isn't fast, loud, or extreme forget it. You value friendship and are loyal and will not hesiste to go off if someone crosses you.

What Naughty My Little Pony Are You?

My July Horoscope

2005-07-02T21:15:00.000-04:00

I have never read a horoscope that seems as if it was written just for me.

Especially since it said "At times since June 2003 you must have felt like someone switched on the fluorescent lights and all the magic and moonlight that you love so much in life suddenly disappeared. Admittedly, life has been quite no-frills, dear Cancer, but that chapter is about to end."

I was pregnant in 2003 and in June I was told I HAD to go fly to the UK on business. That was the start of so many crazy things in my life, besides the whole idea I was going to be a mother for the first time. I gave birth to my son in October 2003, a full 5 weeks ahead of schedule. I had went to work on a Thursday, gave birth on Friday Morning at 1:00am, slept (as much as I could) and then called into work at 8:30am that morning telling them that I wouldn't be seeing them for a while. Of course they didn't believe I went into labor so early! LOL

But since then, just as my horoscope says, It has felt like a fluorescent light has been blinding me. Especially this last month. I've just been so depressed, that its been hard for me to be positive about ANYTHING. Well, at least I have something to look forward to. *sigh of relief* Well, I need to continue reading. I just felt the urge to write this. :o)

Blessings,
Tonia

Cancer Your July Horoscope by Susan Miller - AstrologyZone

Marcrame Forum

2005-06-13T22:47:00.000-04:00

knotwork Forum

I've been to the Knot Work Macrame Site so many times, but I never noticed their forum. I've also included the link on the far right sidebar.

Macrame in Stores

2005-06-13T19:55:00.000-04:00

Today my son was a little cranky because of the heat. He has not yet built up my tolerance or love for the heat yet, but I hope he does soon, because we are going to Jamaica in October for my cousins wedding.

Anyway, we went to the mall, and I decided to check the stores I normally don't go into because I consider them "tiny titty" stores. Basically meaning that if I had small breasts, I too could fit into their clothes. I could loose 70lbs and STILL not fit into their clothes. LOL But I did find a few interested macrame items. I found two belts and a purse.

One of the patterns had a simple diamond pattern like this one, but only there was a shell in the middle, that was stung on separately.

The second belt also used the diamond pattern, but had more half hitch scroll work. I wish I had a pic to show, but lets just say a little more thought went into this belt.

The purse was a simple square knot design with round purse handles. I don't often see macrame items in stores, and if they are there only a small handful. Its hard to tell if there is even a demand for these types of things, from the general public. Not that I want to start selling items, but its good to know.

Well, I have some unruly dread locks that need to be fixed up, so I gotta run.

Enjoying the Summer Heat... finally!

2005-06-06T11:50:00.000-04:00

Lately, I haven't been in the mood to do much except to play around with graphics and web templates. No macrame, no seat weaving, no web surfing, no online research, and barely any reading.

I think the reason maybe because the weather is getting nicer, and I'm less inclined to do anything but relax and just enjoy relaxing. If I'm watching TV, playing with my son, or out and about, its much enjoyable for me at this time. I know I'll get back into things soon enough.

Well, I'm going to get some food before I start work. Just a note on being at work on a beautiful sunny day.... IT SUCKS!!

Purging is a good thing!

2005-05-26T21:05:00.000-04:00

I just sold about half of my Czech and Druk glass beads and some rosary findings that I'm no longer going to use. Granted, the amount I sold them for is only a fraction that I actually paid for them, but it feels SO good to purge! I still have the other half to sell the same person when she is ready. I know she'll put the beads to good use and make some beautiful pieces.

Now all I have to do is figure out what to do with all the finished jewelry I created! There is just so much of it. I figure I'll just leave that for another day to worry about..

8:57 PM Eastern Time and all I have planned for tonight is cleaning my room, and drinking wine! Oh... and maybe just a little computer work :oP I'm want to work on a blog template for my husbands business and my future caning work.

Oh YES I'm almost forgot!!! I FINALLY received The Macrame Book in the mail a few days ago. This is a wonderful book!! I think I may just return some of the other macrame books to Barnes and Nobles, because this one covers so many subjects, and different knots and styles.

I just LOVE Barnes and Noble just for returning books. I had two books I purchased over a year ago in perfect condition. Today I told them my mother purchased the books and doesn't have a receipt. The policy is that they will give you store credit for the value of the book. If the book went on sale, you'll take a loss if you actually purchased it yourself. I return to books which cost $20.00 each, and I received about $28 of credit total. I purchased one book, and gave the rest of the credit to my husband. That store is wonderful!!

Well, gotta pour myself another glass of wine and finish cleaning!

Blessings!

Raining Lazy Day

2005-05-24T21:22:00.000-04:00

I was going to take and post pictures of all the free twine I received from my husbands, friends, girlfriends, uncle... :o) But yeah know... I don't feel like it.

I was going to take and post pictures of some jewelry that I made... but yeah know... I don't feel like it.

I think I'm going to talk about my job. Something I haven't done yet, because I do it all day, I normally don't want to sit down and write about it.

But the last week has been interesting to say the least. I work at an airline in the customer service department, well, at least that's what my badge says. Since the summer of last year I've been working on various projects. Creating procedures for my co-workers to use, updating other procedures, cleaning up our intranet pages, briefings.. briefings.. and yet more briefings.

Well, the team I was working with on one project to create a more user friendly intranet site just won a "Superstar" award. What this means to me is the 4 of us are going to split $500.00 and we each get either a day off, or a space available upgrade the next we fly our airline. I of course took the day off. My share is $125.00 and I plan to spend this money on myself for something useful, and that will last.

Also, just today I received another accommodation from a customer. I forgot the certificate at work, but she REALLY loved me! Its funny, before 9/11 I was a senior representative within my department. This position is kind of like a supervisor, just without the pay. I was so miserable with that position. I was told by my manager that I didn't have good internal or external customer services skills. I was written up left and right and all the way around.

Now that SAME manager is singing my praises and ASSIGNING me all these projects I'm working on. Go figure. Well, at this point I'm really doing what I can to keep my job, because after all, I work for an airline, and since 9/11 no airline position is safe.

Well, I think I'm going to work on my new template design.

Redesigning my blog

2005-05-21T10:01:00.000-04:00

I really got my inspiration from TS Ellis's site and the different designs that she was using. I have been impressed with a lot of other sites, but for some reason, it was hers that really made me say... I have to change my site!

With her help, I was able to figure a lot of things out, but alas, I'm just not as good as she is with setting up her site! I used another site that offers free templates so I at least have something different while I learn more about CSS. The site I found is Free Blogger Templates

If there were time I'd sit just learn CSS from start to finish at HTML Goodies, but I think for now I'll just piece it together, and use HTML Goodies as a back up.

I'm going to be posting some more macrame jewelry today or tomorrow. I've just been caught up in this caning thing. I really think I can help my husbands business out if I really study at it. I think having the macrame on the side for a personal hobby, not to make money at it, will help me balance myself out.

I've never been in this situation before in which I can use one craft for money (seat weaving), and the other (macrame, hemp jewelry), which I'm just as good at, just as a hobby.

Ya know... it kinda feels good!

Seat Weaving? Huh? What?

2005-05-17T20:58:00.000-04:00

Purchase Seatweaving & Basketry supplies from HH Perkins

Well, after teaching myself how to macrame, when my husband mentioned AGAIN about the amount of money I could make at caning a chair, I finally told him I'd give it a try.

He first mentioned it to me about 5 years ago or so, and I've always said... "Yeah... maybe I'll take a class", and left it at that.

I have to admit though, one of the main reasons why I decieded to consider this was because business has been really slow at my husbands antique store. I know there is a large demand for chair caning, and I kept thinking... I could be help out.

So off to the local library I go to find some books. I actually found a good one called Seat Weaving, by Ricky Holdstock I've really learned a lot so far, and I'm actually looking forward to trying this out.

This is no way means I'm giving up macrame, its just now I have to fit something else in. I told my husband that I have I have a wishful incentive....

If I make good money at this, maybe I won't have to go back to working full time! He told me, at the most, we'll probably have a really nice vacation. *rolls eyes* oh well as I said... wishful thinking.

Received my hemp jewelry books

2005-05-12T21:07:00.000-04:00

They are not that bad, I'm actually learning a thing or too from them. The best thing about it is the use of multiple knots for one piece a jewelry. The combinations are really nice, its good to look at things like this to make my brain work. I review today I received.
Hemp Masters: Ancient Hippie Secrets for Knotting Hip Hemp Jewelry by Denise Knight (Editor), Max Lunger

and Hemp Masters Getting Knotty: More Ancient Hippie Secrets for Knotting Hip Hemp Jewelry by Max Lunger.

The one main similarity between these two books are the first 29 pages describe the same exact knots, techniques, and tips. So this means you are not learning additional knots by purchasing both books.

However, you do get some good projects and the instructions are very easy to understand and learn from. The book with green cover contains projects using natural color hemp, and the Get Knotty (red cover) contains projects using colored hemp. I'm not one for color, but these projects are not overwhelming using crazy colors. Everything is pretty neutral, with the exception of the American Flag and USA arm band projects... I will NOT comment on those.

Well, in the end I'm VERY happy with my purchases. Now if I can only get the pieces that I want to copyright perfected so I send in the paperwork! Its driving me crazy because I keep getting ideas for new things... and I just HAVE to try the new idea out as well. Oh well...

Blessings!

My Flickr Photos

2005-05-09T21:31:00.000-04:00

Flickr: Photos from onyxrose

As if I'm not busy enough, I've deceided to try and scan a lot of my old photos to flikr :o)

Thanks to my Uncle Barry, I'll be able to. He upgraded me to a pro account so I could have unlimited upgrades. This is a very addictive website!

Make a Macrame Belt!

2005-05-08T21:42:00.000-04:00

Make a Macrame Belt!

Simple, but really good practice for this type of knot

A great macrame site

2005-05-08T21:38:00.000-04:00

Handcrafted by Elaine - macrame instructions - introduction

There are not many sites out there with a lot of content, but I really like this one!

How to Make a Hemp Flower and Spiral Choker

2005-05-08T20:56:00.000-04:00

How to Make a Hemp Flower and Spiral Choker - Free Jewelrymaking Instructions

Go figure... I have so much left over Czech Fire Polished beads for this project. Though, for some reason I always have a hard time getting the bead on the hemp. Maybe I don't have the correct mm. I gotta check the label before I discard it for once!

How to Make a Hemp Fishbone & Bead Choker

2005-05-08T20:54:00.000-04:00

How to Make a Hemp Fishbone & Bead Choker - Free Jewelrymaking Instructions

This is a really cool project! I haven't tried it out myself yet, but its on my to do list. I'm just happy that the directions is on the web for any one to use!

Relaxing on Mother's Day

2005-05-08T13:01:00.000-04:00

This week has been a little tiring since I've been working on a big project at work. So to relax I've been trying to read, macrame, and just relax. Not as easy to do... but I'm working on it. :o)

I received a nice card and a Godiva chocolate cover strawberry from my son for Mother's Day. And since he is only 1 1/2 yrs old, I'm sure Dad helped him out just a little.

I came up with a new necklace that I think I'm going to copyright. It has a splash a color from ribbon I'm using.

Also... thanks to Half.com I found two books. Hemp Masters: Ancient Hippie Secrets for Knotting Hip Hemp Jewelry by Denise Knight (Editor), Max Lunger

and I found...
Hemp Masters Getting Knotty: More Ancient Hippie Secrets for Knotting Hip Hemp Jewelry by Max Lunger. I really hope they turn out to be good. This will be the first time I'm purchasing a hemp/macrame book without previewing it first in a store.

It's been so hard finding good books, that I'm willing to take a try.

Well, gotta freshen up now, and go for a drive. Until next time :o)

2005-04-28T15:00:00.000-04:00

Click on the photo for a better view, and hit your back button on your browser to return to this blog, or you can use the link on that page.

I have learned a lot just by creating this chocker. One of the things I learned, is that my neck is too thick for a choker, so they don't really look good on me... Oh well. The second thing I learned is that when planning a type of project as this I have to really plan this out ahead of time.

For this choker I used eight 3 yard lengths of hemp folded in half over a split ring, and it worked out beautifully. While I was working on this choker I was worried that I wasn't going to have enough cord left to finish it, and I'd have to add a cord. I really hate doing this.

But as it turned out, the real problem with looping the final split ring onto the end of the hemp. The problem was that I technically started out with 8 cords, and ending with 16! There was no way I could end the choker in the same way as I planned and have it come out neat.

In the end I created a V at the end of the choker, sniped off the excess cords, and only used two cords to put on the split ring. It doesn't look pretty, but I finished it.

I'm kinda hooked on berry knots right now, and I think I may create another berry knot necklace. Also, I have an idea for berry knot earrings. Well, the sun has FINALLY come out, so I'm going to take my son out for a walk.

Finally... April Showers!

2005-04-23T12:28:00.000-04:00

I never thought I'd be so happy to see rain. LOL Not that I haven't enjoyed the sunny and warm days, but it seemed a little weird to be in the middle of April without any rain.

I started this choker a few days ago. It's not finished yet, but I wanted to at least post a sneak peak here. Well, I'm actually at work right now, so I might as well get paid for doing something.... hmmm I can always work on this choker.... or maybe read that Dean Koontz book... Oh well, I'll figure it out. 4 1/2 hours left to go!

Berry Knot Necklace

2005-04-19T20:59:00.000-04:00

Well, I finished this next last night, but I'm not sure if I'm 100% happy with it. Click on the picture for more information, you can always return here by hitting your back button on your browser.

My husband said he didn't like the motif at the bottom of the necklace. To tell you the truth, I didn't have a clue what to do, and I just wanted to complete it. I think I may start another one like it, and try to do something different with the motif.

Other then that, it was fun, if not tedious to create the berry knot. I just have to figure out to incorpate it with other knots for a interesting effect. Well, if anything I hope I don't dream about macrame tonight, I need my sleep!

Blessings

Why Macrame?

2005-04-19T11:57:00.000-04:00

While working on my current necklace I was thinking about why I enjoy macrame so much. I think what it really comes down to is simplicity.

With macrame you don't have to purchase so stock load of tools that you have to learn to use. When I first became interested in creating jewelry, I started with beads and wire. I had to purchase the tools, the beads, the wire, the findings, and of course you have to have a selection. I had to tried to keep it simple, but in the end I became bored.

With macrame, I feel like my options are much more open then what it use to be. There are so many knots to learn, and I can have a lot of fun making unique jewelry without even adding beads. When I get tired of making jewelry, I can also take a break and try something new. I have options to make purses, hats, scarfs, snoods, and anything else I can think of.

I also enjoy the control of macrame. I'm not limited by the amount of beads I have, or the color options. I'm only limited by my own imagination. Not that I'm saying that working with beads isn't equal to macrame, its just I feel that I don't have a good imagination when I work with it.

I really love macrame, and I truly feel that I'll be learning something new everytime I create a piece, even if its 10 years from now. I really look forward to learning more about macrame, and maybe if I'm lucky, I can meet others that love it as much as I do!

Starting the berry knot necklace

2005-04-17T12:53:00.000-04:00

This is the first time I've tried this style, so it doesn't look the best, but I don't care. I know I'll get the hang of getting it to look perfect soon enough.

Also, my husband made a measuring rod for me. The nails in the rod are exactly 36 inches, are 1 yard. It makes it so much easier to measure out the hemp. Before I was doing it on macrame board by counting 10s... ya know 10, 20, 30, 6. If I needed 4 strands at for yards each... well, let me just say, I LOVE my measuring rod!!

Click on the photo for a better view, and hit your back button on your browser to return to the blog.

Archived Macrame Pictures & Onyx Rose button!

2005-04-16T20:54:00.000-04:00

Click here to view archived macrame pictures. This link can also be found on the right hand side of this page.

Also, here picture of the button! Click on the photo for a better view, and hit your back button on your browser to return to the blog.

Also, when you click the link for the archived pictures, you can view some new pictures there as well today as well.

Woot! It worked!

2005-04-15T22:20:00.000-04:00

I just couldn't wait to post. In the previous post (a few hours ago) I was saying I was working off an idea of a shrink plastic label. I purchased Shrinky Dinks for Ink Jet Printers to make a Onyx Rose button for my macrame necklaces and bracelets.

Well, I FINALLY did it! I made a single hole button for my necklaces! It actually didn't take to many trial and errors. I made two pendants, though I messed up one by putting a piece of paper on it :o( These were great because I was able to judge just how light I should make the image.

Next I made the first rose. I used the full size verison of my profile picture, and I resized, and lightened it. I came out a bit big, and the highlighted parts was VERY white. Ugh.

With some tinkering I was able to darken the rose more without loosing any detail, and then lighten it. I still have some highlights, but not as bad as before. I resized it again, but it came out a tad too small. The next printing came out the perfect size.

I would post some pics, but I left my camera in the car, and my hubby has the car. Oh well. If I'm not able to post the pics tommorrow, then I'll try on Sunday.

Well, I don't have time to read, so I'll clean my room and get some shut eye before my son wakes up for a midnight drink. :o)

Blessings!!

Knotters Block

2005-04-15T20:32:00.000-04:00

Funny, I didn't even think of that term to just now. Over the last few days, I really have done any real macrame. I made a bracelet with wooden beads. I haven't gotten around to making a pic of it yet.

So, I've just been doing some other stuff. I visited my old haunt, the Got Breastmilk message boards, to say hi and give an update about my son.

The women on that board are amazing. I received so much support from them after my son was born. They really helped me feel better as a first time mother. I have to start going back there again, because they always have a way to make me smile, even when I'm in the worst of moods.

I've been reading a lot more as well. I started book 7 of The Dark Tower series about a year ago, probably more, and its been so hard for me find time to read it. Know I've been reading in between bits at breakfast, just before I bath my son so he can play in the water. In the bathroom, while I'm.... well... ya know. And any other time I can fit in. Even if its just a paragraph.

Hmmm, and I guess his talk about retirement is busted! I just visited the Stephen King website and he co-authored a book about the 2004 Boston Red Sox series (I'll skip that), has a short story out, and a crime novel book. I'm sure this has been out for a LONG while, but ya know... I'm slow on these type of things now-a-days! I'm even far behind on my Dean Koontz books! Now that is amazing, because I'm only behind by 3 books. Usually, as soon as they come out I purchase them because I'm on the mailing list. Usually his dog writes the e-mails, and they are REALLY funny!!!

Also, while I have Knotters Block, I've decieded to persure an idea that I say on Crafters Coast to Coast. Diane Macrae from Seattle used a shrink plastic label on her Photo Backpack that I thought was such a cool idea. So I want to do something simular. It's still trial and error, but when I have my idea set, I'll post a pic here.

Well, that's what I'm gonna work on now, before I head back to my book :o) So until next time!

Blessings!!

I just can't believe it!!

2005-04-08T22:15:00.000-04:00

I'm sitting here watching the Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya- Sisterhood... and I'm enjoying it! OMG... this just blows my mind. I had myself convinced that I wouldn't like it! Yikes.

Anyway, I trashed the purple hemp project. I just HATE the way that crap feels under my fingers. And just to think I even have a beautiful blue color as well. *sigh*

But I was able to get my photo idea completed... and I'm very happy with it. I did a very simple bracelet, but I want to do something more pretty :o)

Click on the pic for more detail and just hit your back button to return to the blog ;o)

I love Springtime!

2005-04-07T13:40:00.000-04:00

I was able to get some cleaning done today, thankfully! I cleaned the kitchen floors, and vaccumed and dusted the living room. Of course, my son cried during the vacuuming, but what I can say? He has to learn to deal with it sooner or later.

Started two macrame projects. One a momento holder and the other is using purple hemp and beads. The purple hemp I had purchased from Fire Mountain Gems but I really don't like the feel of the hemp under my fingers. I'm not going to by any more colored hemp from them anymore. Granted, I do LOVE their selections of beads and jewelry making items, that I won't take them of my list yet.

Hemp Jewelry Shop and Hippie Crap have a GREAT selection of hemp, so my next order will be coming from there. I hope the feel of the colored hemp is better then the Fire Moutain Gem stuff.

I want to purchase:

20# Hemp Twine - $5.75 each
48# Hemp Twine - $7.25 each
20# Waxed Hemp - Black - $5.75 each
6 Strand Soft Rainbow Dyed Hemp - GOLDEN BROWN - $10.99
6 Strand Soft Rainbow Dyed Hemp - OLIVE GREEN - $10.99

Of course first I need to get some money :o( The ONLY thing I miss about working full time is the money.

Also, we went to the beach yesterday and I took come random pictures (see flikr pics in menu... wait they are not there! UGH Did I forget to save? UGH!) I have an idea to combine pictures into bracelets. It work out nice. Of course, once again, I need to have some money to accomplish this. *sigh*

Well, gotta run and fix that Flikr photo thingy. I really like Flikr, but I can't afford to upgrade to a full version so I can upload unlimited pictures. My uncle uses Flikr, and probably has over 1,000 photos posted there so far.

Well... until next time!

Ugh.. I just had to change it!

2005-04-04T21:30:00.000-04:00

While checking out the world of blogs out there, I've had to stare at a picture of myself on the comments that I've posted on site that I've liked. I HATE LOOKING AT MY PICTURE!! Ugh... When I see myself sometimes I think... what did she do, swallow a balloon then smiled?

Anyway... I'm back to my old and true picture... my black (onyx) rose.

I love this picture because it my rose that I bought at the NY Ren Faire several years ago. I had wanted to make a pic for a website, but I didn't have a digital camera at that time, only a scanner. So what I did was stick the rose on the scanner and put a white towel around it. I scanned it several times until it looked somewhat good, and then cleaned it up!

If I tried to do that again today, I'd probably fail miserably! Well, gonna sit next to the hubby and read The Dark Tower by Stephen King until I feel sleepy. I'm not adjusting to well to the time change! Blah!

Gotta love Hemp!!

2005-04-04T11:47:00.000-04:00

I just realised that I haven't mentioned my preference of stringing materials that I use for my macrame. I actually started using hemp, and I love it. There are so many other materials and cords that you can use, but for right now, this is what I like to use.

Now... I'm not saying that just because I like to use hemp in my macrame projects doesn't mean I'm smoking it! Sometimes, when I talk about a piece that I'm making or wearing, people get the wrong idea when I say its made out of hemp. As if I'm growing a whole crop in my back yard, and making my own cord. If only I had any other that talent. I'm impressed just by people who spin there own wool!

Anyway, in the introduction of a the first book about macrame that I purchased Making Beautiful Hemp and Bead Jewelry there is a really good write up on hemp. So here it is.

**********************************************

Hemp Has A Long History

In the days of our forefathers, hemp was a common crop. A past publication of The U.S. Department of Agriculture has called hemp "the oldest cultivated fiber plant", mentioned how the crop improves the land, and said it yields "one of the strongest and most durable fibers of commerce." In some areas of North America during Colonial times (Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Chesapeake, for instance), hemp production was so important that citizens were required by law to grow the plant. So much a part of Americas history is connection with hemp that even the first two drafts of the U.S. constitution were written on hemp paper. The final draft is on animal skin.

Hemp Has A Variety of Uses

Paper is another wonder of hemp. It contains no dioxin or other toxic residues. A 1990 commentary for ABC News (by Hugh Downs) reports that: A single acre of hemp can produce the same amount of paper as four acres of trees. The tress take 20 years to harvest and hemp takes a single season. In warm climates, hemp can be harvested two even three times a year. It also grows in bad soil and restores the nutrients.

The "hurds" of hemp remaining after the fiber has been removed can be used to produce more than 25,000 products ranking from dynamite to cellophane to nontoxic paints and varnishes. Many of these products are now made with toxic petrochemicals. Since the growth of hemp was prohibited in the U.S. because it contains the drug know as marijuana (Mexican word for "hemp"), manufacturers have found other means of producing products. During World War II, the hemp crop was vital to the U.S. because the war had cut off access to fiber for textiles, rope, and other wartime needs. "Hemp For Victory" was a slogan for encouraging the growth of hemp. In 1943, over 100,000 acres of hemp was being grown in the U.S.

Hemp is really the environmentalist’s dream. In the past, all oil lamps burned hemp seed oil until whale oil edged it out in the mid-nineteenth century. Later lamplights were fueled by petroleum and coal, and recently, radioactive energy. Hemp can be used to manufacture a variety of plastics products. It can provide a compostable styrofoam replacement. The seed oil can be converted into a valuable plastic resin. Some German manufactures are developing snowboards and skateboards from hemp-based plastics. Plant-based plastics such as hemp and corn can be completely biodegradable.

Hemp- The Perfect Cord for Hand Tied Jewelry

Hemp fiber has great tensile strength and durability whether made into rope or fine lace. Hem textiles with at least 50% hemp content block the sun's UV rays more effectively than other fabrics. Compared to cotton fibers, hemp fibers are longer, stronger, more lustrous, and absorbent, and more mildew-resistant. Hemp fabrics also help keep the wearer cooler in summer, and warmer in winter then do cottons or synthetics. Many innovations in the hemp textile industry are improving the qualities of hemp yarn, making it lighter in weight and more uniform than before

hemp fibers, textiles, and items made of hemp are important for many countries around the world. There is a large movement afoot in the U.S. to reinstate the cultivation of fiber hemp as more and more people favor the environment-friendly and economically-sound products made from this plant.

Making Beautiful Hemp & Bead Jewelry by Mickey Baskett ©1998 by Prolific Impressions, Inc.

Red Red Wine......

2005-04-02T21:12:00.000-05:00

That was a really good song :oP I'm just sitting at my computer converted AVI movie files to MPG, uploaded pictures for my receent completed bracelet, and eating cookies. Ahhh... baby is asleep, and hubby is watching TV. I'm a very happy camper!!

And for my new bracelet.. it turned out so much nicer then I thought it was! Here are some pics Criss Cross Bracelet Just click the back button to return to the blog.

Yeah... just checked my converter and all my mini movies are done! Yeah!!!! Tomorrow, I'll burn them to a CD.

Until next time :)

Friendship Prayer

2005-04-01T10:22:00.000-05:00

I need this more then the link in the last post!!!

Falling into place or pieces?

2005-04-01T10:18:00.000-05:00

Well, I enjoyed these last two days off. I was also able to get out and enjoy the spring weather with my son and husband. Finally taking off the heavy winter coat, and throwing the winter blues out the window.

Granted... I do have to go back to work today, and I'm very CRANKY. I feel like I'm falling apart at the seams sometimes, but hey... that's life. Work is annoying lately. I don't have a set position right now and doing projects for my managers. I normally don't mind it, but one of my managers is not as organized as he should be. So a project I started and ended about a month ago is still just hanging there. I have a friend in the same situation, so I know its not me. Well... actually I KNOW it not me! LOL

I was able to get work done on my current project, which is great. I love being able to knot in between feeding my son, it makes me feel as if I can really multi-task! The new piece is not coming out exactly as I thought, it looks nice. Hopefully it'll all fall into place.

Well, my sister-n-law sent me a great e-mail. Though its going to rain ALL weekend, I'm now looking forward to my next days off. Its supposed to be sunny and warm :o)

Have a Great Day!

Finished a project :o)

2005-03-29T22:55:00.000-05:00

Well, I finished the project I was working on, and the links are in the side bar. I had orginally planned this to be a choker, but in the end it became a cuff (bracelet).

Its funny, I think I wanted to make a choker because I was still stuck on the idea of what other people would like [to buy] and not what I'd like to wear. I guess its a little harder then I thought to change that thinking of sales to personal.

I spoke to this customer at work that lives in Los Angeles. We were talking about computer and I mentioned I just learned the basics of Access 97 to make a macrame database. He said he was actually kind of suprised because that word "macrame" is not often used by many crafters. He then told me that he use to make Victorian lampshades by hand and sell them, but he also stopped doing that. He admitted to me that he really just liked making them, and he may go back to it soon, but for enjoyment of it.

He also made a very interesting suggestion. He said that I could probably look into teaching macrame at adult education classes held by the schools in my area. This way I could introduce new people to the craft. He said he did it himself with the lampshades once a week.

Hmmm.... that is an interesting thought! I'm not ready to do something like that now.. but who knows... its always an option! :o)

I finally figured it out!!!

2005-03-25T23:03:00.000-05:00

I totally change my mind about the links in the previous post about Access 97 tutorials. I found one that was more to my liking FunctionX had a much better set up for me to follow along. I spent the last four days fussing over this damn program. I went to work today, opened up Access and was able to make a really simple set up in about 15 minutes. I was floored. I guess I was stressing to much about learning the program, that I totally missed some steps.

I still have a lot of inputting to do, and some tweaking, but I'm very happy so far.

In this pic I have a drop down box for it I own the book, or from which library it can be found.
Macrame Book Log

In this pic I have a drop down box for the different catagories of knots. Of course, this most likely will be changed often! LOL
Knot Catalog

Well, off to bed. I'm tired!

So many knots, so little time

2005-03-24T11:56:00.000-05:00

For the last few nights I've been scanning pictures of different knots so I can get a little organised. Its just amazing how quickly my image file is growing. (You can see some in previous posts). At first I was just going to create a MS Word document, but I quickly realised that keeping everything organised as I find new knots and techniques would be next to impossible.

So now, I've decieded that I'm going to learn how to use the MS Access 97 that is installed on my computer. I'm able to create a very basic database, but I want to also catalog the different books that I'm using.

One project always creates a new project! I don't think it will be too hard since I was able to learn Powerpoint for a assignment at work. So far I found two tutorials, and Google has a whole lot more.

I found The Land Grant Training Alliance - Online Acess 97 Lessons and Zicklin School of Business - Baruch College City University of New York - Microsoft Access Tutorial

Well, first things first...
1. Finish Scanning knots
2. Finish my current project
3. Learn Access 97

Of course knowing me, I can probably do 2 and 3 at the same time :oÞ
Well, back to scanning!

Added Projects

2005-03-23T20:07:00.000-05:00

Have I mentioned that I'm a newbie to macrame? I'm teaching myself all of these knots... Well, I kinda half to if I want to learn, because I don't know anyone that has ever done macrame! Finding websites about macrame is also kinda hard.

I did find another blog Am Knot who did turn me onto a website called White Swan that teaches online classes, but I don't have the money yet to do that.

Well, I did add links to pics of items I have created in the right menu bar. They are what they are :o)

Joesphine Knot

2005-03-22T14:11:00.000-05:00

I really like this knot. It can add such beauty to any project. Now I just need a project LOL :o)
Here is the detail of a two strand knot that is part of a necklace I made.

How Square

2005-03-22T01:18:00.000-05:00

There is an easy way to make a square knot... and there is the hard way. Guess which way I like to create one :o)

Lark! Who goes there!

2005-03-22T01:08:00.000-05:00

Okay... tacky title.. but it was the first thing that popped in my head :o) I need sleep!!!

This pic is to long for this blog... so click here Larks Head

I normally use this knot to begin a project, though I'm certain one could think up other reasons to use it. Maybe I'll figure it out... maybe not. :o)

Placemats + Macrame = Fun!

2005-03-22T00:49:00.000-05:00

Okay.. I'm lazy. I'm sure I could have went into my backyard and picked some really nice branches of my tree to work on a hanging... but I'm not.

I was walking around Pier 1 Imports looking at all the things I cannot afford to purchase when I saw some really cool place mats. One for for $2.00 and the other $3.50 they were made from bamboo and sticks and were loosly (in my mind loosly) bound together to make a place map.

So what do I think?

F&#K ya! Take that bad boy apart and I have sticks gallore!!! This is not the exact pic of the place mats (battery died on my camera) but here is an example Yeah for Placemats!

Ahhh... the Half Hitch

2005-03-22T00:20:00.000-05:00

Everytime I start a new hobbie I always feel like a mini library because I'm always buying books! For once, buying books about macrame is not as easy as beads or

clay! So far I found the books I'm enjoying the most are the 20+ years old. But of course when it comes to learning macrame knots a book will only contain those knots that relate to a specific project they are publishing. Which of course means, you have to try to find a new book that has a differnt knot technique. This is kind of tiring!!! So what I'm doing is collecting all the pictures of knots so I can make more own reference book.

And hey... why not blog them here as I go. Maybe someone will actually stumble onto this page and it'll help them out as well :) So here are some Half Hitches ;P