The Magical Bean

Attacken of the Kraken

2011-07-10T15:36:00.000-07:00

One day I got the idea to make a little kraken.

Of course, it had to be pink :).

This little guy makes me so happy! Now I can whip him out and say quite loudly “RELEASE THE KRAKEN!!”…

What more can a girl ask for?

He is my first knitted amigurumi. It was much easier than I had thought, but somewhat fiddly at first. I only used DPNs simply because I felt like it. I decided to make him out of sock yarn, put pipe cleaners in his tentacles, did felt for his eyes instead of yarn, and loved every minute of making him.

He is quite the little chef.

This was made with the Kraken pattern from the book Amigurumi Knits: Patterns for 20 Cute Mini Knits by Hansi Singh.

This song, With the Dark by They Might Be Giants, has a little squid as one of the characters. Thus making it one of my favorites :)

Have a great Sunday!

Callie

P.S. It's good to be back!

1. A Happy New Year from Mr. Squid, 2. VIDEO: Mr. Squid's Handmade Moment, 3. Red Devil LEGO Mosaic, 4. Stitched Science: Plarchie and the Plug, 5. squid4concep-flik, 6. Confused, 7. Squid , 8. Giant Stitched Squid – Darwin and the giant stitched squid, 9. What a Catch ACEO Collage, 10. Red Devilment, 11. A really giant giant squid, 12. Squid, 13. CephaloPod., 14. dream about the sea, 15. Laughing Squid Photo by Brian McCarty, 16. Squid #0524

Works in Progress

2011-05-30T07:56:00.000-07:00

Sometimes when I think I have too many projects it helps if I take a step back and look at how far I have come in them.

Like my Noro Kirameki scarf,(first blogged about here),which I am about halfway done with now!

I decided to start putting them together as I went rather than wait until the end in a patchwork kind of way. I love how it is turning out :)

I am trying to get a head start on birthday gifts this year, especially given that almost all of mine last year were given out late. No more procrastination for me! So first up is a gift for my mom. I am making her a Vancouver Wrap, using Abstract Fiber Alto yarn.

I love linen stitch! It is pretty mindless and looks beautiful worked up. I learned how to do the tubular cast on because of this and I have to admit that it was super tedious, but looks so great!

The colors I chose were Snapdragon, Sangria, and Burnside Bridge.

Finally I am making myself a Catkin. I am using Tosh Merino Light in the colors Gilded and Lepidoptera. I really tried to not start it but I couldn't resist. I was counting down the days until this pattern was released; I was that excited.
I finished the first section and am onto the second.

Yay for happy projects!

Have a great Memorial Day!

Callie

the magical bean

A Gift

2011-05-23T07:53:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago something marvelous happened.

I won a gift on Etsy from rodica!

She was kind enough to send me a little house all because I was her 1,000 heart on Etsy.

WOW! What a milestone right?

I am smitten with my little house, green being my favorite color, it suits me perfectly.

It came all the way from France to me, and it was such a treat getting it in the mail this week.

It came packaged in this great little felt hand stitched bag, and with a handwritten card. I quite like her handwriting, if only my cursive was that good.

The bottom reads "Thank you".

Really it is rodica I should be thanking though. This is the first time I have ever won something on Etsy, and I didn't even enter into a contest. It totally made me smile. Congratulations rodica on your accomplishment! It is definitely worth celebrating.

Be sure to check out her shop here, her blog here, her flickr here, her twitter here, and her facebook here. It is filled with adorable tiny handmade houses like this one, and more handmade goods here :)

Have a great day!

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Little Projects

2011-05-17T18:07:00.000-07:00

After finishing a project one of my favorite things to do is to look for little ways to use the supplies left- the scraps!

That is what happened when I had finished making this hat for my sister and had a little bit of left-over yellowish yarn. Around that same time my mom asked me to make her a bee mobile for her mother's day gift, after seeing this photo while I was looking at my favorites on flickr.

So while noticeably different from the inspiration, I quite like how it came out. The wings are made from leftovers of this shawl, the black leftover from an amigurumi I made.
After making the bees, I strung them up with fishing wire from a twig.
Easy-peasy :)

It was so quick and fun!

These bees are quite chunky, but I think endearingly so, don't you?

Hee hee :)

Then after finishing another project, my Snow Drops and Snap Peas shawl, I had a little ball of yarn left.

Oh what to do?

Well, I made a bookmark. It is from the book More Last Minute Knitted Gifts by Joelle Hoverson,called Linen-Stitch bookmark. This is the second pattern I have made from this book and this book does not disappoint. It is so easy to follow, and it really was quick. In fact I have already made four more and given them as gifts.

Yay for quick projects!

They make life great don't you think? Who doesn't need a little instant gratification now and again, I know I do sometimes.

Anyways, my summer is going to be a little busy, I am going to be working not one but two jobs. So don't be surprised if you see a lot more quick and easy projects popping up around here.

Hope your day was great, I spent mine drawing while listening to Lisa Hannigan, Fleet Foxes, Mamma Mia, and Laura Marling. It was heaven!

What did you do?

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Snow Drops and Snap Peas Shawl

2011-05-10T21:33:00.000-07:00

There are some projects that seem to be all consuming. This was one of them. It was a constant in my hands and thoughts. It was the one thing I looked forward to at my lunch break (besides a much loved phone call).

This project was one of those easy yet ultimately oh so satisfying.

One of my favorite parts about making a shawl is that moment when after you've done all the work, and binding off to see how much it has grown. I always look forward to it, and the moment after I have finished blocking and it looks even bigger, and so much prettier.
And boy did this grow!
When I was showing it to my dad he asked me "Is that a table cloth?".
:)
It is 75" by 35" and has such amazing drape.

I just loved this yarn. The colors, how soft it was, and the drape factor were all there.
It is made in Silky Merino, in the Arco Iris colorway, by Malabrigo. I used the pattern, Snow Drops and Snap Peas by Kirsten Kapur of Through the Loops. The only modification I did was to the ending, with the help of raveler annanann.

Luckily, Kaitlyn, my sister agreed to model it for me. Thanks Kaitlyn!

Doesn't she look so pretty in it? :) I know I said it before after finishing my first shawl, but it is still true with this one. I can recall so many memories of when I was making this. The cinnamon chocolate cake I ate, the new ADELE CD, 21, I was listening to as I bound off, the pride I felt for my brother at his NJ HS ceremony, the relief of coming back to it after a long day at school/work.

It is almost as if the memories are being knitted in; they seem that tangible to me.

Well, while it was fun to do, I am glad to be done. This week is finals so I have been doing so much studying. I am really looking forward to this summer. I want to travel so badly. Not sure where yet. Do you have any plans?

Have a great day!

Callie

Around my room today

2011-04-27T19:49:00.000-07:00

Grateful for a little break with nothing to do...(not really).

At least, no school, no work, or other commitments...just me and my crafting supplies.

What will happen?

I can't tell :)

Have a great day!

Callie

the magical bean

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T16:47:00.001-07:00

1. Easter Bunny Cake Pops

Happy happy Easter!

xoxo, Callie

the magical bean

Knitted Vest

2011-04-22T08:42:00.000-07:00

While at an estate sale a few weeks ago I stumbled across some wonderful finds. This is one of them. A hand knitted vest, with some seriously great colors. While very itchy and child-sized, I couldn't help but love it, and for only 75 cents, why not?

The back is just a plain gray...

I have this urge to learn fair isle, right now! Does anyone have any books to recommend learning it from?

The colors are mesmerizing in person.

I love it.

I would love to have a whole room in this color scheme.

Hope your week is going great.

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Mozart's

2011-04-18T17:26:00.000-07:00

Some time ago, my sister's and I had a rare weekend where we were all free. So we decided, to go up to one of my favorite cities: Austin! While there, Kaitlyn found this cafe along Lake Travis called Mozart's. It was right next to the lake, and oh so serene. Not too hot, with a bit of breeze :)

I ordered some European style chocolate mousse.

Jessica got a triple layer chocolate cake. So moist!

The lake was so pretty.

Kaitlyn got a little cannoli.

All of it was so nice, quite a great reprieve day to day life.

I will definitely be coming back, again and again...

Hope your Monday is amazing.

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Yellow Rose for Kaitlyn

2011-04-15T19:16:00.000-07:00

My sister Kaitlyn was was quite descriptive about what she wanted for her birthday this year. In fact she chose exactly what I was to make.

Apparently smitten with Jessica's Ruby Red hat, she wanted her own. But in yellow. She chose the yarn and loved its softness (as I do!). It has this little halo of fuzz around it, that makes it seem like it is blurry. I love the finished product, as well as making it. This pattern is so great, even the second time around.

Happy Birthday sissie, glad you liked your gift.

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Have a great weekend!

(P.S. Sorry for my continued absence, I can't seem to get back into the habit of blogging... don't worry though, I will be coming back full force!)

(P.S.S. Here's a little song to enjoy, Someone Like You by Adele. Love!)

Crochet Stones

2011-04-06T11:40:00.000-07:00

Back in the days before I had a blog and was just an avid reader, I stumbled upon Resurection Fern one day. I do not remember exactly how but I do remember being amazed at the creativity and ingenuity of Margaret Oomen. To this day it is still a blog I love to look at.

One thing I have especially loved are her numerous crochet stones, such as this one, and so finally I decided to try my hand at making some too.

Some other stones to inspire: on Resurection Fern here, this one on Bella Dia, and this bowl full on Lovely World. Also there is a great tutorial up on Purl Bee written by Margaret Oomen, if you care to try one yourself.

Mine were done freestyle, using some of my Noro Kirameki yarn meant for this project.

I had a great time making these. They are so easy and relaxing.

I was surprised how quickly I was done too.

Someday I'd like to have a whole bowl full of these little beauties.

My how they make me smile!

xoxo, Callie

the magical bean

Serendipity

2011-03-29T19:13:00.000-07:00

1. playful mittens6&7, 2. vintage enamel kettle, 3. House and apple, 4. Origami toadstools

Something miraculous happened.

I was unhappy with my job, and somehow I stumbled upon the application for another, was hired promptly and will begin in two weeks.

This job is in a place I have always wanted to work!

It seems like serendipity.

I am so excited!!! I can't contain it either, it just keeps bubbling up :)

Have a great day,

Callie

the magical bean

(p.s. thought you might enjoy this song I stumbled upon called "First Day of My Life" by Bright Eyes.)

Succulent Garden

2011-03-25T05:09:00.000-07:00

Succulents enamor me. They simply beckon me to them.

How else can I explain the little garden I have amassed?

My orchids don't mind them at all. In fact they like each quite well.

Have a great Friday!

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Quote for the Day

2011-03-24T05:03:00.000-07:00

Fear less, hope more, eat less, chew more, whine less, breathe more, talk less, say more, hate less, love more, and good things will be yours.

-Swedish Proverb

A Dapper Dachshund Amigurumi

2011-03-23T05:45:00.000-07:00

My dad loves dachshunds.

They are lovable little dogs, with a stubborn streak which can be made up by their love of snuggling.

This doll was made with one of our old pets, named Wilhelm or Willie for short, in mind. He was the sweetest little dog. He passed away when I was in middle school, after having an accident. I still miss him.

Anyways, he was a playful little fellow, completely one of a kind.

So when my dad's birthday rolled around I knew just what to make him. It is kind of a tradition that I give my dad something dachshund related on his special day, and this crocheted one just had to be made. It was easy to make, and quite quick too. Loved making it.

Lily tried to snatch him while I was photographing this. Then she had the audacity to smack the camera.

She is not amused.

Happy Tuesday.

xoxo, Callie

the magical bean

Wizard

2011-03-22T05:46:00.000-07:00

So the last of the little group of clay things is finished... Admittedly this one is kind of bizarre.

His nose alone could knock someone out ;)

But that's why I love him.

He's weird.

He's a wizard.

And I love him.

What else can I say?

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Noro Kirameki Scarf

2011-03-21T19:00:00.000-07:00

A while ago,after loving virtually every pattern on Ravelry made with this tutorial, Hexagon-How To, made by Attic24 (this is seriously an amazing blog, so creative and colorful). Then several days afterward I saw this scarf on Pintrest and couldn't get it out of my mind. I put the two ideas together, coupled with a recent addition of Noro Kirameki yarn and began making a little scarf. I really shouldn't have begun another project, considering how many I have but some how this one wouldn't let me be... I just couldn't resist. :)

Anyhow, I really did need something that was portable enough that I didn't need a pattern and this one, fits smartly into my purse, and after making the second hexagon already had it memorized. As for the half hexagons, I made up my own pattern.

I really think I will add a picot border along the edges, but I am unsure of the color...

brown? black? gray? white?

Not sure yet.

It is enormously satisfying to make these little guys. They are like instant gratification, and since I have been short on time, it makes me feel like I am actually accomplishing something.

I have been doing roughly one to two a day. Little by little it is getting bigger.

Hoping your life is going great.

Callie

the magical bean

taking it day to day

2011-03-03T19:46:00.000-08:00

1. let's not talk, 2. Hermès Inspiration picture, 3. African Flower Cushion, 4. wild side socks, 5. How to ride a rainbow, 6. little houses, 7. quilt in progress, 8. top shelf..., 9. day 9-pins, 10. Cobblestone: YIP.119, 11. ...outro angulo..., 12. Behind the Scenes and Everything else Inbetween, 13. Apak art at The Grassy Knoll Gallery in Portland, 14. Ticker Tape, 15. behemoth., 16. Circus Boy, 17. Spiderwebquilt, 18. Potholder Spectrum, 19. A Year in Pictures: August 2, 20. Travis and Ida's Big Day, 21. The coast of Massachusetts, 22. wall 'o books, 23. Triple Four Patch, by Susie Anderson, 24. hexagons, 25. Tudo combinado!!!!

Hello there,

These past few weeks have been marred by sickness in my family from the flu to pneumonia. After several trips to the doctor, then the hospital, I am happy to report all of us are healthy and rearing to go again! Also, I have gotten a job after a long search, working as a cashier. In between going to school and work, and trying to do home work. It has resulted in me feeling slightly overwhelmed, but I know it will get better once I get more used to it all. I have to keep reminding myself to just take things day to day.

Craftiwise, I have finished some new things that I can't wait to share :)

Happy Thursday,

Callie

Eurybia Shawl

2011-02-19T07:15:00.000-08:00

After getting this shawl kit as a gift (full post details here) I was almost too touched to start it. I just kept looking at it and admiring it for all its beauty. I just wanted to do it justice. But somehow the urge to finish it made me start (does that even make sense?), also it really helped that I loved the color of the yarn. Since October it has been patiently waiting for me to begin. So one day this January I stepped into my closet got it out and was off!

I feel so proud not only of finishing it so quickly but also by how much more I learned!
Knitting it made me learn how to add beads with a crochet hook, which was easy, this was the first shawl project I had worked from tip to tip, and also I learned several new stitches.

It makes me feel so happy.

My very talented mom took the photographs for me.

The beads add such a nice little touch, and a subtle heaviness to the shawl. I really love the drape of this yarn. It hangs so beautifully.

The pattern is supposed to mimic waves, and since I have always loved going to the ocean it just makes it that much more special.

Perfect pattern. Perfect yarn. Perfect gift of kindness from Wendy.

Thank you so much Wendy again!

Birthday flowers

2011-02-18T16:14:00.000-08:00

My birthday came and went this year. It was splendid really, so much love and thought went into all the gifts I received, and all the little details of my birthday celebration. I felt like the luckiest girl in the world. I was even given a bouquet of flowers from my mom.
:)
I enjoyed them immensely for a week.

One day while out with my mom I bought this lovely little owl planter, that I filled with some trimmings of succulents. They are growing like crazy!
Not only that, but I found this little wind up goose, that I have named Mathilda. I literally gasped when I saw it since I had been mooning over this one for some time and was pleased to find its female counterpart.
I just got a new job. Hoping that everything runs smoothly for it.

Everything about my birthday this year was swell.

Hope you have a great Friday!

xoxo, Callie

the magical bean

Illustrated Tumbler and Inspiring Blogs

2011-02-17T16:48:00.000-08:00

I just finished this little drawing of an owl, hedgehog and mouse sipping some tea for a tumbler. All I can say is that I really love it!
I was on the search for the perfect quote about tea, and almost chose this one..
"You can never have a cup of tea big enough, or a book long enough to suit me..."C.S. Lewis
until, my mom kept saying this little ditty she made up, "Drink tea with me, the best is yet to be!". I loved it right away, and decided to swirl it around up at the top there.

I used colored pencils mainly and then pen for the quote.
I, of course, had to add some little mushrooms :).
Like the little thimble used as a cup?
Hee hee
Also I thought I would share some inspiring blogs I have been frequenting lately:

Beautiful textile art on Fiona Wilson
Really inspiring crochet home goods on Attic24 (how have I never seen this one before?)

Lovely illustrations on About Today, especially this post makes me want to have an illustrated travelogue
Some really great fashion+illustration+day to day goodness on Paper Sparrow

Also Carly (of A Girl and Her Blog) got a new blog called She Loves Libraries, be sure to check it out!

Hope your day is marvelous!
XOXO, Callie
the magical bean

Tiny Mittens

2011-02-15T16:09:00.000-08:00

I got the idea to make these after seeing some tiny mittens on a line(they were knitted though) at Anthropologie, which I loved but didn’t want to spend the money. I have a hard time doing that when I know I can make it! I got to work on it, and made four so far, but gave one set away to my mom. I want to have enough to have a line of mittens someday… but so far this is all I have left. I didn’t use a pattern, just made it up :)

I have been thinking about sharing it as a free pattern on my blog someday; just haven’t sat down long enough to do it yet.

I thought I'd leave you with a little photo of lovely little Sheila, inside my drawer, 'hiding'.
She thinks I can't see her.
:)
Silly cat.
Happy Tuesday! I have a huge test I have been busily studying for Philosophy today. Wish me luck!
XOXO, Callie
the magical bean

Happiness is A Quilt

2011-02-14T20:00:00.000-08:00

How can I even begin to express how happy this quilt makes me?

Maybe I should just show you instead.

Because I went a little bit crazy taking pictures, and this isn't even the tip of the iceberg.
No joke.

But really, what's not to love?

The sock monkeys, the polka dots, the stripes, the sunflowers, the swirls, the stars, the patchworkiness and wonkiness of it all makes it so perfect to me.

It is my second quilt I have made in my entire life, and this one was all by myself (as in no help from my mom)... I love it!

This is my happiness quilt.

Have a happy happy Valentine's day!

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Doily Rug

2011-02-13T13:33:00.000-08:00

While perusing etsy a bit ago, I stumbled across this gorgeous rug. I immediately began thinking about doily's and how they could actually function as a rug if made with large enough weight of yarn, and hook. So I could hardly contain my excitement, or hands from starting! :)

I decided to use a free pattern I have made again and again that has the shape of hearts in it, since I didn't want mine to be too holey.

This is it (below) in regular doily size.
By now my rug has progressed to the point that I ran out of yarn. Drat! Also I am thinking I want it to be bigger so I need to get some more yarn, and am working on editing the pattern to make it larger...

I guess I will just be crocheting the day away. Wishful thinking really, I have too much homework.

I have been really sick this past week, with the flu.

No fun there.

I took quite a bit of naps like Sheila here, and even slept through all Wednesday.

I am just now feeling much better. So on to creating!

Hope you have a great Sunday!

Still moments

2011-01-30T13:04:00.000-08:00

Linen Book

2011-01-19T14:31:00.000-08:00

I was shocked and so pleased to find this book at an estate sale one Saturday afternoon. I could hardly believe my luck that no one had picked it up yet. I even gasped somewhat and looked around in disbelief... (I also found some records of the Great Hits Big Band era in mint condition!)

The illustrations inside are so great! Not to mention that it is made of linen (surprisingly I didn't know books had been made of linen at one point), but it is also from 1895. Something about it caught my attention.

See the 'm' for 'mug and mouse'.

Little owls!!

What more can I say? :)

The last page the writing is intelligible...

Zebra.

How great is that rooster?

Faded and lovely.

So... sorry for the unannounced break but school just started again and I am having to get back into the swing of things. Not too sure what to expect from my courses.

So far so good anyways.

Hope your day is full of happiness,

Callie

the magical bean

(P.S. I've been loving listening to The Band Perry's song IF I Die Young, while with Kaitlyn (we both love country music)! Hope you enjoy.)

My gift to Kristie

2011-01-14T10:28:00.000-08:00

This is what I sent to Kristie....

The little panda head is a pouch...
Here is what it looks like on the inside.

I drew this little monster on her card...
I decorated a moleskin notebook with my hand carved mushroom stamp.

I am so happy she liked it! :)

Been busy sewing, getting ready to go back to school, trying to find a job, and have been feeling rather uninspired as of late....

Hopefully things pick up soon.

I've been loving listening to Laura Marling lately.

This one is a current favorite: Rambling Man.

Gift from Twistyfishies

2011-01-12T18:22:00.001-08:00

I was ecstatically overwhelmed to receive a package in the mail the other day from Kristie of Twistyfishies. When I sent her an 'angel' package in the mail, as a part of the Crafty Goodness Swap, (she never got anything), I sent it off and expected nothing in return.

However, she kindly sent me a thank you package in return. I am so pleased that she did.

I love everything in it!

As you can see in the above photo I got not one but two monster plushies!

Also inside were some sweet stickers, a lovely card, and her card and tag (both are designed so prettily I had to show you).

All in all it was an amazing gift.

The package was really nicely wrapped up...and I would've showed you but I was so happy to get it I tore it up to quickly to get any photos.
Can you blame me?
I mean how much cuter can you get than a one-eyed bat monster?
He is definitely going to hang up in my car.
Already, the yellow monster sits in a place of honor on my bed.
All it needs now is a name...
Any suggestions?

Thank you so much Kristie for your kindness. I really appreciate that you took the time to make all these wonderful goodies for me.

If you haven't already checked out her wonderful etsy shop, Twistyfishies, please do. She has such cute amigurumi, plush monsters,and felt plush. Very talented, is she not?
Also she has a blog of her own, here.

Once again thank you Kristie!
XOXO, Callie
the magical bean

Knitted Cup Cozies

2011-01-11T14:54:00.000-08:00

I have been pestered, (lovingly mind you), by my family, when we went to Starbucks that I should knit up some re-useable cozies.

Since I do enjoy being eco-friendly as well as knitting I thought, why not?

I used the pattern Reusable Hot Coffe Cup Sleeve from the book Last Minute Knitted Gifts.

They were really easy to make!

One skein, of trusty Noro Silk Garden, made five.

Although the last one is two rows shorter than the others (it really didn’t make a difference to me).

Enjoyable, mindless knitting.

While photographing... Sheila had to 'help'. Good ole kitty.

Happy Tuesday!

xoxo, Callie

the magical bean

More Matryoshkas

2011-01-10T17:12:00.000-08:00

This summer I introduced you to my first finished matryoshka (aka Russian nesting dolls), here.

Well, time has surely passed and two more are finished.
:)
The newest one I did, paid homage to the sun.
(Back)

The smaller they get the harder it is to get more detailed.

I really think I need to get some tinier brushes soon.

(Front)

(Back)

The next one I used the sunflower,(my favorite flower), as my inspiration.

I decided to alternate between open and closed eyes, to keep it interesting.

I like her green leaf head-piece quite a bit.

So only two more to go!

WOO HOOO!

Hope your Monday was great!

xoxo, Callie

the magical bean

Style Inspiration

2011-01-08T15:22:00.000-08:00

1. Untitled, 2. Juliana, 3. Untitled, 4. Drops cardigan, 5. Seventeen - May 1954, 6. sunday, 7. Loretta Young, 8. Untitled, 9. Leading ladies., 10. Bridal photo, 11. Blue Dress, 12. tova dress, 13. pompom candy, 14. I will be back shortly, 15. Julie Arkell, 16. mad woman, 17. Picture Day, 18. CN00023268, 19. 20081019, 20. photo shoot:: preview, 21. Hedy Lamarr, 22. golden crown, 23. Appliqued skirt, 24. wedding shawlette - side, 25. 31-decorusoculi-wm

I've been really wanting to update my wardrobe lately.

I have been looking for inspiration, and I thought I'd share!

Some blogs that have amazing style:

Vixen Vintage

Some Girls Wander

The Snail and The Cyclops

Some other inspiring style blogs I adore are:

The Sea of Fertility

The Hidden Seed
Dear Golden

Happy Honey and Lark

Also I have been really loving looking at Burda Style.

One day, I somehow stumbled upon this pattern store called Colette Patterns.
Love all they have and really wanting to start making my own clothes.

This dress in particular I really want to make, called Ceylon.

I'm obviously leaning more towards, feminine dressy looks :)
Have a happy Saturday!

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Vintage Quilt

2011-01-07T06:11:00.000-08:00

While perusing an estate sale a bit ago, I came across some really great finds. Two of which were these really great vintage quilts that were from the 30'S or 40's. I loved them right away, and since they only needed minor repairs I inquired as to what they cost, since I couldn't find a price tag. It turns out they were a steal... so I bought them and came home quite elated.
So in the mean time I have worked on repairing them.

This is the first one I have finished. It only had one real issue with it and was that the binding was totally ruined. My mom helped me to pick out some reproduction fabric from that around that time, and I worked on it in between riding in the car and watching movies.

The finished product really makes me happy.

I love the colors and the fact that it was entirely hand stitched.

This is the material that we chose . It has these little bunnies on it flying planes.

I really love all the fabric from the 20's, 30's and 40's.

The bright yellow shapes are what really drew me to this one. It reminded me of these cookies I made for a cultural project in my Spanish class called Alfajores. Probably since it looks like a cookie shape cutter to me, or a flower. Either way I love it.
(Photo from here)

I really have an urge to make these cookies all of a sudden.

Happy Friday!

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Butterfly Pin

2011-01-06T08:24:00.000-08:00

If you remember that crochet butterfly I showed you a while ago, in this post, that was partially finished?

Well, it has been finished for a while now and I just realized I neglected to show it here.

So ta-da here it is!

I have been wearing it on my winter coat. It really brightens up my wardrobe.

I love how it looks against the green, and with my beautiful scarf that I got for Christmas.

One more finished project.
So happy,
XOXO, Callie
the magical bean

Granny Goodness

2011-01-05T11:29:00.000-08:00

I have been dreaming of making a crocheted quilt-blanket-afghan-call it what you will.
Either way, I finally decided to do something about it.

I am making it from the book Gooseberry Patch Christmas All Through the House by Gooseberry Patch. The book says to use scraps but I chose to use Crystal Palace's Mochi Plus. I had a little left over after making this project, and loved the way it turned out. I also chose to do that since it is self-striping and I really don't enjoy weaving in all those ends otherwise.

I've just been getting a ball every once in a while... and so far have made 15.
Only 110 more to go!

Depending on how I am feeling when I have been crocheting it seems that my gauge is really loose, really tight or just right. This has resulted in three different sized hexagons. Rather than try and get all the same gauge all the time I thought it might be neat to do lots of different sizes of hexagons.

( Like in the blanket below. )
My hope is that it will look neat with all the different sizes.

I've always loved this blanket too, and want to make it someday.

The pattern is called Babette Blanket available from the Interweave Store.
Happy Wednesday!

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Confessions of a Bibliophile

2011-01-04T06:10:00.000-08:00

As someone who has loved books for as long as I can remember, I must confess I've always held a soft spot in my heart for tiny books.

Throughout the years I have accumulated quite a collection.

Some like the little Harry Potter one on the lower right I've had since childhood, others are newer like the handmade zine from my sister Jessica.

As testament to my love of books,as a gift one year my brother gave me a wooden case in the shape of a book.

Luckily, they all fit in it perfectly.

He even put my name on the top of it.

Some of them are handmade, some I bought, others were gifts.

Some titles include: The Book Lovers Book, Dogs, The Monster That Ate Stars, Wee Little Garden Gnome, Believe in Yourself, and Leonardo Tells a Story...

Two of my favorites are The Monster That Ate Stars by Souther Salazar, and Leonardo Tells a Story by my sister Jessica.

Both zines, both lovely.

Have any suggestions for good reads?

Callie

the magical bean

Yodeling Angel

2011-01-03T04:41:00.000-08:00

This angel had been hanging on my wall with a different face for some time.

I decided to paint over it and so this is the result.
She is singing in a comical little face that made me chuckle after I finished painting it.

She is rather humorous, no?
:)

I thought I'd share a little photo of Rosalinda 'helping' my mom pin a quilt.
Cats are good like that.

Happy Monday!

xoxo, Callie

the magical bean

Clay owl

2011-01-02T06:00:00.000-08:00

I finally got around to finishing this little owl. It is a real treat to have it done! If you remember this post, all the way back in August, that I showed you its relatives so to speak, as they were made all on the same day. Well, this is one of those 'other things I have not finished yet' that I mentioned, but now it is!
It is really tiny.

I gave it to my brother Michael, and really I had him in mind when I made it.
He took one look at it and said "Is that mine?"...

I guess somehow he knew.

I like how it looks somehow inquisitive.

Happy Sunday!!

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T14:34:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!
I can't believe it's 2011 already.
How time flies.

Here's to an amazing new year.
XOXO, Callie
the magical bean

Rose Red Beret

2010-12-31T11:11:00.000-08:00

I made this hat as a somewhat belated gift for my sister Jessica's birthday.

Instead of trying to guess what she wanted, I asked her. Luckily I only had to show her one pattern, Rose Red by Ysolda Teague, and she liked it right off the bat. I then went to my trusty local yarn store The Yarn Barn where Beverly helped me pick out the yarn, which I am very thankful for.

I used Debbie Bliss Cashmerino DK and Alchemy Haiku held double, made a gauge swatch and got started. I used a size 6 (4.0 mm) needles, held both yarns together, and began!

At this point, all seemed promising.

Somehow, (I’m guessing this might have been denial), I didn’t notice how big it was getting. I happily kept plowing along.

I finished.

Gave it to her.

And GASP!

It was big enough for almost two of her heads...
:(

....ripping it out wasn’t what I would call ‘fun’… .

I mustered up the energy (after letting it sit for two weeks or so), began again, ignoring gauge altogether this time, went down one size to make a small.

Luckily, this time it fits her 22 inch head, using the size 5 needles worked perfectly.

The pattern was really easy to follow, very well written, and the second time around it flew by.

She loves it and so do I! I almost didn’t want to part with it… ;)

Doesn't she look B-E-A-U-tiful? :)
Oh well! It was a bit late, but as they say better late than never.
Happy Friday!
xoxo, Callie
the magical bean

Urge for Going

2010-12-27T23:23:00.000-08:00

This time of year I find myself in a constant state of longing. I long to be in Germany, amidst the Christmas markets, purchasing some gifts at the artisans stalls, walking along in the snow downtown, going into stores like H&M, or my favorite little yarn store, that I can't recall the name of for the life of me, on that corner next to Nanu Nana. I miss eating fresh hot chocolate, made with real thick creamy cocoa, eating bratwurst, and fresh pastries.

I miss going into Starbucks in a big city and them giving you a real mug to use while sitting down to thaw off a bit of the cold.

I miss the wonderment of that first snow fall.

Awaking to find, like a gift, our little town blanketed in snow, and then the insurmountable thoughts of snow ball fights, and sledding.

Catching snow flakes on my tongue.

Aah, so many happy memories, and yet I don't know how to describe this feeling of being pulled in two directions.

I love my time in Germany but also love my time in Texas.
Somehow all this has translated into me wanting to travel, go somewhere new... making me reminisce about a time quite a bit ago now that I will always cherish.
I feel so lucky to have had those precious moments.

This longing to travel, reminded me of one of my favorite Joni Mitchell songs: Urge for Going.

Listen and enjoy!

"Urge For Going"
I awoke today and found the frost perched on the town
It hovered in a frozen sky, then it gobbled summer down
When the sun turns traitor cold
And shivering trees are standing in a naked row
I get the urge for going but I never seem to go

I get the urge for going
When the meadow grass is turning brown
Summertime is falling down and winter is closing in

I had me a man in summertime
He had summer-colored skin
And not another girl in town
My darling's heart could win
But when the leaves fell trembling down
Bully winds did rub their faces in the snow
He got the urge for going And I had to let him go

He got the urge for going
When the meadow grass was turning brown
Summertime was falling down and winter was closing in

The warriors of winter they gave a cold triumphant shout
And all that stays is dying and all that lives is getting out
See the geese in chevron flight flapping and racing on before the snow
They've got the urge for going, they've got the wings to go

They get the urge for going
When the meadow grass is turning brown
Summertime is falling down and winter is closing in

I'll ply the fire with kindling and pull the blankets to my chin
And I'll lock the vagrant winter out and bolt my wandering in
I'd like to call back summertime and have her stay just another month or so
But she's got the urge for going and I guess she'll have to go

And she get the urge for going when meadow grass is turning brown
All her empires are falling down
Winter's closing in

Hoping your holidays were a pleasure!

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T17:54:00.003-08:00

Wishing everyone a merry Christmas this year!

Happy holidays and the like :)

Hope this one is a grand one!

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

That person is you

2010-12-17T04:56:00.000-08:00

1. doilies, 2. Doll Quilt Swap I: received, 3. the desire to create..., 4. green mixes

There is only one person who could ever make you happy, and that person is you.
David Burns, Intimate Connections

Quilted Portrait

2010-12-16T09:21:00.000-08:00

One project I am particularly proud of is a quilted portrait I did for my drawing II class. The assignment was to make an non-traditional portrait, so I chose quilting. For years I had seen some really amazing art quilts in the magazine Quilting Arts. I had always wanted to try my hand at making one, and so when the chance presented itself I jumped on the idea. After conferring with my teacher, who gave me the go-ahead, and my mom who helped me decide how to go about doing it. I got started!

The final result really makes me happy.

I based my quilt off of an amazing photograph I saw on flickr. The photo was taken by a phenomenal photographer, whose user name is LJ. Click here to visit LJ'S profile.
Click here to visit LJ's photostream.

1. Untitled by flickr user LJ.

The resulting quilt only somewhat resembles the original photograph. Basically what I did to make it was to cut out varying shades of colors and then glue then down, putting them layer by layer on top of one another. Finally I have my mom to thank for the actual stippling of the quilt. She did an amazing job, in my opinion, and I felt very proud of how it looked. Thread painting, is what I think it's called. She zipped along, sewing the contours of the face, added wrinkles, and some extra hair. She really did do a swell job! Thanks mom! We chose some variegated brown/tan thread as well as some black and white.
I then hand sewed the binding... and turned it in the next day.

Here's a little close-up of the eyes.

The back looked like so...
All the white thread makes it seem kind of ghostly, no?

When I was photographing it, I switched the position of the portrait for a moment, and by some chance the light shined through for a moment and this is what I saw...
Old man illuminated.
Made me smile.

Can't wait to do another!
Happy Thursday,
xoxo, Callie
the magical bean

I'm back!!!!!

2010-12-14T14:37:00.000-08:00

Why hello there! I'm back! :)

And wearing a headband no less.

My semester somehow came to an end, thank goodness, and I am able to breathe freely again. Whew!

So much work and projects one after another. That's not to say I didn't enjoy it, some classes were great. Especially my drawing II class was a blast. I had probably the best art professor I've ever had. It was very inspiring to be in her class. I made some pretty nifty stuff too. I can't wait to show you!

Well the first thing up is this little cowl/ headband I made.
I improvised the pattern Alpine Scarf from Interweave Crochet Magazine, Winter 2008. All I did to make it a cowl instead of a scarf was to join the ends once casting on, and the proceed working it in the round.

I made this in between working on a school project. I really shouldn't have been working on it but how could I resist! :)
Don't worry both were finished within the weekend.
I had bought the yarn last year as a birthday gift for myself, at Hill Country Weavers in Austin. I couldn't bear the thought of not making something with it before my next one. So I got to working...
The yarn specifics:
Great Adirondack Yarn Co. in sea mist colorway
100 yards
It is really warm to wear, and so far has not been cold enough for me to use.
Oh well!
I just love this yarn! It was so soft and fuzzy, and it was a pleasure to watch the colors change, and the glittery bits merge together as I went along. The colors are what really drew me in. The greens, purples, and oranges all fit so beautifully together!

Can you see the little shimmer of the metallic thread? I love that extra little sparkle it adds.

It has such a pretty stitch pattern too.

Well, I'm happy to be back. I've missed blogging. My etsy shop has been sorely neglected and it makes me very sad. I have some great things planned for it. Including a range of new prints that I have already started on. Hope to share soon.

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Dear Blog

2010-11-21T19:08:00.000-08:00

Dear blog,

I miss you.

I miss my fellow bloggers.

I miss blogging about random bits of life;

about my projects, and things that inspire.

I miss writing and receiving comments.

I miss it all very much.

I miss the time I used to have to do all those things.

Wishing to see you more often, but unsure when I'll be back more regularly.
Sorry for my absence, it was unplanned.

Life is calling me.

I have to answer.

Sorry my poor neglected blog, I'll hurry back...

xoxo, Callie

the magical bean

(image drawn by me, in pencil)

Dream Deep

2010-11-09T18:40:00.000-08:00

Reach high, for stars lie hidden in your soul. Dream deep, for every dream precedes the goal.
-Pamela Vaull Starr

Vintage Bear Planter

2010-11-08T14:53:00.000-08:00

This little guy is sitting on my windowsill as we speak. Isn't he quite a character?
I love how happy he looks. I had him for about a year waiting for the right plant for him, when one day my mom had two leftover cactus's waiting for a pot.

They fit quite snugly inside of him.

So perfect!

Happy Monday!

Callie

Eye see you!

2010-11-06T14:10:00.000-07:00

Yes eye do!

Hope you have a great weekend!

xoxo, Callie

the magical bean

Jessica Leigh La Lou turns...

2010-11-03T20:00:00.000-07:00

...another year older!

Happy Birthday sista!

Hope your birthday was all that you wished it would be.

I love you, Callie

(P.S. In case you don't know already, she has a blog: here)

Fall

2010-11-02T20:02:00.000-07:00

1. Woodland, 2. Fall, 3. léo, broken puppet, 4. Forest Floor, 5. 转眼11月, 6. Leaves Of Change, 7. My Brand New Doodle Room "AFTER" Pt. 1, 8. A Tiny House, 9. leaf ephemeral art

Busy, busy, busy; that is my life right now.

I find myself wishing for the changing of the leaves, which won't come, and things I can't buy. Trying, trying, trying to let things flow.

It's getting better.

Hope your Halloween was splendid,

Callie

Mushroom Clock

2010-10-28T14:26:00.000-07:00

Hello there!

I have another finished project to share. A little wall clock that I painted with a happy mushroom. I got the wooden form on sale last year at Hobby Lobby, and just now got around to painting it.
All in all I am happy with how it turned up.

And now here it is on the wall in my room, right next to Sam the Mushroom man.

Here's a little close-up of his face.

He's happy to see you!

Can you tell?

I thought I might leave you with a photo of my sweet Sheila, snoozing on my yarn.

What a cutie she is.

Happy Thursday!!

xoxo, Callie

the magical bean

Lace Basket

2010-10-25T21:31:00.000-07:00

Crocheting a little basket is quite fun.

Especially when you are supposed to be doing something else :)

Still the orangy orangness of it makes me quite pleased, not to mention the little vintage yellow buttons.

It was quick and simple.

It is from my ever favorite book, Kyuuto! Japanese Crafts Lacy Crochet from Chronicle Books.

The only thing different I had to do was slightly starch it because it was all loose and somewhat pitifully floppy before.
Not any longer though :)

Hope your Monday was fantastic!
XOXO, Callie
the magical bean

Tinsmith's Wife Anniversary

2010-10-23T06:43:00.000-07:00

Last Friday was the second anniversary of my favorite yarn shop The Tinsmith's Wife out in Comfort. If you have been following my blog for a while you know how much I love going there. The owner Wendy is the best as far as I am concerned, not to mention her amazing parents Susan and Bill. They are kind, sweet, and all around good hearted. They are just wonderful and I really wanted to find some way to let them know it.

So I decided to give them a little gift in honor of their celebration. I had drawn this little sheep knitting (shown above) a bit ago and it just seemed perfect, so after framing it, my lovely mom and I set off on Friday to give it to them in person. Along the way there we got a flat tire, and a very nice old cowboy stopped to help us put on the spare (many thanks Brad!).
Once arriving I gave them my gift and I was so excited to see that they liked it!
Many hugs were shared and happy tears. It was a very happy moment. They then hung up the picture on the wall, right away! It was so touching.

( This picture is of Wendy and I laughing; and you can even see my picture hanging in the background, photographed by Susan)

Then after all that, Wendy did something extraordinary for me that really touched me even more. She gave me a gift in return. Can you believe I teared up again? It was their special anniversary pattern and hand dyed yarn, that even came with the beads!

The pattern is for a shawl called Eurybia by Melissa Goodale from Stick Chick Knits. The yarn that accompanies it is this deep shade of beautiful green that I really can't wait to work on! It was hand dyed by Hazel Knits in the Emerald City colorway.
.

The cup is the perfect size too, and a lovely shade of blue, just the right size for my cups of tea.

Then after all that Wendy did a post on her blog about it which really made my day, be sure to visit her blog and website for her shop.

Thank you Tinsmith's Wife!

This is a moment in my life that I will always cherish. Your generosity is outstanding. I'm so glad I got to be apart of your special and momentous celebration.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

You mean a great deal to me too :)

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Yarn Crawl 2010

2010-10-22T15:15:00.000-07:00

So one word to describe the Yarn Crawl this year is--fun! It was a blast, really. My mom, Kaitlyn, Jessica and I planned it a little bit differently this year, separating up the shops into different days. Last year we did everything on one day... a little too much looking back. The first shop we went to was Nan's Needle works in Horseshoe Bay. We hadn't been to it before and I was really surprised how nice it was. The shop was located in a business center on the second floor but was worth the search. I found the most beautiful yarn that the owner, Cari Kojak, dyes herself. It is 100% silk and I don't know if I've ever been so smitten with a yarn right from the get go before. It's soft, oh so soft, and I just love the colors.

All in all I went to nine shops!

This years passport and bag were bright orange! Of course that made me very happy.

I really think this years free yarn was so great. I seemed to be drawn to the same colors though, as you can tell, greens, blues, and purples.

I got several great free patterns to accompany the yarn but somehow forgot to photograph them. Drat!

I visited Hill Country Weavers, Gauge, Nan's Needle Works, The Tinsmith's Wife, Rosewood Yarns, Yarnivore, Yarn Barn, Stonehill Spinning, and the Knitting Nest. I really treasured going by my favorite store in Comfort, The Tinsmith's Wife.

This is the second thing I bought this year: orange Silky Alpaca lace yarn from Classic Elite. I got it at Rosewood Yarns in Boerne.

I only bought four skeins this year! How's that for self-restraint?!? :)

Honestly, I almost didn't do the crawl this year, since I am making a huge effort to save more and more. So far it has been good, and I have been avoiding going to places I know will tempt me to spend, but this was the first time in a long time I have splurged a little.

I know I said this would be posted last Monday, but I spent the last week looking all over the house for a mysteriously misplaced camera cord that ended up being hidden under one of my quilts. No idea how it got there...

I just now found it last night.

So it is albeit late :)

Forgive me?

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Yarn Crawl 2010+ Lake House Adventure

2010-10-17T16:31:00.000-07:00

Last weekend two very joyous occasions happened. The first was a little family vacation, and the second was the Best Little Yarn Crawl in Texas. It was my second year in a row, if you recall, doing the crawl and boy this year was a blast as well!
The trip began on Friday when my mom, dad, Michael and I went on our merry way up to our families lake house.
We did some fishing, and overall just spent time together. In the cabin, I did some reading and worked on various drawings. We separated out time for the yarn crawl, all in all I went to nine shops all over the hill country.

I will tell you some more about what exactly happened on the crawl tomorrow.
Can't wait!
This lake was just so pretty.

I might have taken a 'few' photos of it. :)

We sat on the benches together and my mom scrap booked, my sister's read magazines and I knitted for a bit.

It was very pleasant.

I found several good free books at the local V.A. thrift store that I read a bit.

Here's my brother in the early morning light getting ready for the day!
Sipping some hot cocoa, of course.These are some views from the road, there are still so many wildflowers out and about. It really brightens up the roads.

All in all a splendid trip, one worth remembering.

Did you do anything fun on Columbus day Weekend?

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

works in progress

2010-10-13T07:38:00.000-07:00

This is a little sampling of my projects in progress. There are many more, although I don't care to admit it, but I am finishing up more and more, so there is hope! :)

This doll was started a long time ago and finished but she never felt 'right' to me. I decided to go back and change her up a bit. I repainted her face, crocheted her a hat, and am finishing up hand sewing her dress. I also have to make her some shoes, but for the most part she is almost done.

I really like how happy she looks now :)
The next project are socks!!!

This is the shawl I am making for my mom.

I actually have more done now but you get the idea.

I really love this yarn from Sweet Georgia, so soft and the colors are so vibrant!

I bought the yarn below while living in Germany after first learning to knit and loved it.

I haven't ever used it because partly of its sentimental value. Recently however I was missing living there and decided to give it a go.

I am just making a really easy cowl....

It is so fuzzy.
Really. You have no idea how soft and fuzzy it is.

I am making some bright yellow coasters. They make me happy!
I have one side done and the second started.

And finally a crocheted butterfly!

Might make this one into a pin.

Just winged making it.

Get it?

Winged!

Heee heee :)

So many projects, but almost done with many.

Here's to a great Wednesday!

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Daily Doodle

2010-10-12T18:14:00.000-07:00

This was drawn in the library of my school after a history test, this little owl kindly reminds one to READ daily. I haven't been able to read much for fun lately... but the last books I read were Hunger Games and Mockingjay by Susan Collins. I am on the last book of the series, Catching Fire, my brother recommended them to me,and all in all they were very entertaining. I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a light, good read.

Do you have any books to recommend?

Have a happy Tuesday!

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Always

2010-10-04T18:28:00.000-07:00

It was a high counsel that I once heard given to a young person,

"Always do what you are afraid to do."

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Spin A Yarn

2010-10-03T18:21:00.000-07:00

My very first homespun yarn...

A proud moment for me seeing what I made and learned.
It is a little bulky and strange but mine nonetheless.
The class I took taught me quite a bit, but I still want to learn more.
I finally got the nerve to unwind it and put it in a ball.
In doing so I realized it looked somewhat like funnel cakes, as seen below.

I made this tiny bit in about an hour, but still need more practice and a spindle.

Someday soon maybe.

Someday soon...

Sorry for my absence from blogging but I've been sick and bogged down with homework/school art projects. I am really behind on emails so if you have been waiting for one from me I will get on that right away!

Hope life has been treating you good during my absence.

Happy Sunday!

Callie

Happy Birthday Mom!

2010-09-26T06:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my mom's birthday!

This is just a little happy birthday note to you mom. Thanks for being the best mom ever :)

I love you, Callie

Beaded Cobweb Wrap

2010-09-25T23:33:00.000-07:00

I finished this wrap a little bit ago, but only got around to taking pictures of it last week. It is from the pattern Beaded Cobweb Wrap in the book Essential Crochet by Erica Knight, which I happened to find at Borders for only 5 dollars!

You might remember all the way back to January 29, 2010, when I showed you I showed you some of my works in progress. You might recall the blob of crochet with the sparkle? This is it, although now finished of course :).

It was left unfinished for some months just sitting. I couldn't decide whether or not to do beads. Then I decided to but couldn't find the right ones. Then one day I did at the Tinsmith's Wife, and so I finished it up...
It is actually pretty large and took really long to block it.

It is pretty warm and cozy too.

I love the drape in the fabric, and the added weight of the beads.

Also, I love the way the beads look!

All in all a great project, very easy, loved the yarn. The only complaint I might have is that it was too easy, it didn't really draw me in after going through the second ball of yarn I was bored. I really needed something to spice it up, and that's why it got curbed for so long.

In the end it was worth it though!

Happy Friday!

xoxo, Callie

the magical bean

Great Days

2010-09-22T18:50:00.000-07:00

1. Perpanas, 2. come to my window, 3. soft colors*, 4. Untitled

These are great days.

-Winston Churchill

Idea Notebook and A Happy Occurence

2010-09-21T13:40:00.000-07:00

When we moved to from Germany this last time, I had quite a bit of free time to fill up with making things.

I did so quite proficiently, my drawings lined the walls. I painted until odd hours in the night. I learned to knit. I created non-stop, all the while enjoying Europe again. One thing I made was a small cardboard book that I filled with drawings.

When we came back to Texas, I made another. This one was slightly larger, and more colorful. This is the second book I made...

I didn't account for the heat here and so when I put on the varnish, little did I know that it would attached itself to anything with fibers, like paper, that it came in contact with. That's why there are the random bits of whitish stuff on the front and back above.

This is the inside cover, I added these little toasts that were apart of a tic-tac-toe game at Jim's, where I added the faces. On the other page were the plans I had to make the deer head that is now hanging in my room, which I blogged about here if you remember.

Aargh!

Behold: a random one armed bear pirate that I doodled in one of my classes and then attached in here.

Foxes, all decked out in proper apparel.

Some more little random doodles that I have been adding more and more to over time.

More doodles on the left page.

I drew a gesture drawing of Werner, on the right page above, while he was sleeping.

Two books, one at the beginning of a journey one at the end.

Maybe I'll show you the first one someday.

On another note, I really want to share something pretty nifty that happened about a week ago. I was at a local thrift store with my mom, and checking out when someone said, "Excuse me miss, but where did you get that bag?"

I was somewhat taken aback, turned around to the next register, where the worker there was pointing to my owl purse, and I simply said, "I made it."

(If you haven't guessed, she was talking about the owl purse I made and blogged about here.)

She said, "Oh! It's so cool!", and immediately went back to checking out her customer.

I was elated to have had such a nice compliment, checked out and went out to the car with my mom, thinking that was all. However when as we where putting things in the car, another worker rushed out and said, "Umm..miss, excuse me but my friend, she umm..wanted me to ask you how much would you charge to make her a purse like that??"

I again was taken aback, this has never happened to me before... I then went inside with her coworker, gave her my card and told her my asking price, which shocked her a bit. I tried to explain how alot of it was hand stitched and all handmade, but I could see I had lost her.

I have to tell you that I was honored that she wanted this purse that bad, and even if I lost her interest, I am honored by her compliment. All in all it was a good experience, one that made me feel proud of my handywork, and helped me build my business skills.

So I left that thrift store feeling elated, mostly because of her compliment and also because of my finds.

It was a happy day!

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Rainy Days and kitties...

2010-09-20T11:05:00.000-07:00

Its been raining on and off... and whilst doing homework, cleaning the house, and working on some one's birthday gift I was happy enough to enjoy the company of the the trio of sweetest kitties around.

Rosie posie sleeping on my bed in a ball.
(She tried to smack the camera when I took this picture!)

The view from my room has been rather foggy, and rain splattered. When it rains like this I long to be in Germany.

It actually felt a little bit nippy for a few hours and so what did I do? Whip out my cozy handmade socks of course :)

Stay cozy!

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Weekend Fun

2010-09-18T16:44:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, my mom, sister Kaitlyn and I went to Gruene for the Metal Arts Festival. We were actually so zealous about going that we went the weekend before because my teacher told me the wrong day for it :). Gruene is a very quaint historical town which thrives on its antique enterprise and country music.

I do enjoy going there although it has gotten to be a little overpriced for my budget since its popularity has risen. The festival was a perfect example of that. There were very many beautiful artworks available. I enjoyed going, spending time with my family, and trying to stay in the shade as much as possible.

My mom actually found some metal humming birds at one booth that were very cute. She got some to put in her beautiful garden.
We browsed some antique stores...
I admired this pretty cactus.

As well as this immense tree.

So pretty!

After the festival we went up to Austin.

Once there, we stopped by the Stitch Lab.
Where I found the niftiest fabric ever!!

I was so excited, my mom noted that I was bubbling over with joy. I practically was that's how excited I was with these finds. I plan on making some needle cases with them. This material described me perfectly, the owls, the green, everything.
MUSHROOMS!!! :)

What else is there to say?

Gnomies!
This echino fabric I have loved since I first saw it in high school on a website which I can't recall and wanted it so bad. Several years later I stumble upon it. Coincidence? I think not.
After all this fun, I went to Hill Country Weavers were I took a spindle express class. In which, I made...wait for it... yarn! It wasn't very pretty yarn mind you, and I am still having issues with drafting, but it is yarn, and I made it. I DID IT!! I'm very proud, don't worry pictures will follow.

Now all I have to do is save up for a spindle so that I can make some more yarn...

My teacher recommended a Schacht. Any spinners out there have any recommendations?

In another note, I have been rather vacant from blogging due to school work load, unfortunately. Anyways, whenever I feel out of it and tired from school I listen to music, like this song Radar Detector by Darwin Deez.

Music makes me happy.

Have a happy Saturday!

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

As the sunsets

2010-09-14T20:03:00.000-07:00

Do not dwell in the past,

do not dream of the future,

concentrate the mind on the present moment.

-Buddha

Fools Rush In

2010-09-12T19:12:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd share a song I have heard recently and loved... It is Fools Rush In covered by She and Him. This was already one of my favorite songs and then to have them cover it just makes it perfect :)

This weekend was so much fun for me. School has really been wearing me down with all the homework I've had, leaving little time for anything fun. But this weekend changed that and I am glad for it! I finally got to do some crafty stuff which I will try to show you later when blogger is acting better. In the mean time, sit back and enjoy!

Happy Sunday,

Callie

the magical bean

my swap gift for Pip

2010-09-10T08:51:00.000-07:00

My partner for the swap was Pip, of Pip and Life,which is kind of cool after she'd already won my giveaway a while ago. So the other night I felt so happy to see her post that she had gotten it. Be sure to check out her post here. It is so sweet! I am so glad she liked it.

This time I actually remembered to take some pictures of some of what I made...so as you can see I made:

a sunflower pin...

tiny cupcakes...

a crocheted necklace...

and of course a card and packaging...

all these made up my swap package.
Thank you Pip for your kind words about my creations for you. It does my heart good to see that you like it so much. Thank you thank you.

I am so happy you like it :)
That's me right now, happy happy happy!
XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Crafty Goodness Swap Received!!!!

2010-09-03T13:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, the bestest thing was waiting for me on my doorstep after getting home from school. My swap gift from Shannon of Quilting in Pink, Bulldogs at My Side!!
All in all I love it! There was so much thought put into every part of the gift. It came in a fabric decoupaged box, as you can see in the above photo, and a sweet handwritten note. Inside the box were so many goodies, including this owl ribbon, an owl bookmark, four vintage post cards, some Lion Brand Yarn(already have a project in mind to make something with it), and a little tote.
This bookmark is perfect for all the books I read, and the ribbon is sparkly!
Oh my goodness!!!

Then on top of that there were these little postcards all from Florida, somewhere I'd like to travel some day.
Each one is so full of nostalgia, from a family of Glen, Otto, and Millie, detailing their trip to the everglades.

And then to top it all off there was this little tote, hand sewn by Shannon herself, which she suggested I use to carry my lunch, but I already have a new crochet project inside it, the flat bottom of it is perfect for storing. I love the material she used, the oranges, the yellows, the greens, the reds, all my favorites colors.

Thank you so much Shannon for all the beautiful gifts you gave me.

Everything is just so lovely!

Be sure to stop by Shannon's blog, Quilting in Pinks, Bulldogs At My Side.
Thanks again Shannon!

Callie

Owl Purse

2010-09-02T13:36:00.000-07:00

Well, as school was egging closer and closer I realized I needed a new purse.

Almost every year, since middle school I have made a purse in honor so -to -say of the new school year. This year I had this idea bubbling around in my head about a purse shaped like an owl. I wanted mine to be very specific, with many pockets, which is something I need to keep organized.

I used a purse my sister had as a jumping off point, and sewed away!
I didn't use a pattern or anything, just kind free-styled it :)
I hand stitched everything on the face.

I added pockets for my phone, for pens/pencils, one on the front for my sketchbook, a key holder, for my mirror, and one for chap stick.
So many pockets, so little time :)

To make it all better, a while ago I found a black wallet with two little owls perched on a branch. It suits my bag and me perfectly.

I love it when a project comes out so wonderfully!

Recently, my mom rescued three abandoned kittens. They are the sweetest things ever! Can you blame me for falling head over heals for the them?

Stop by my mom's blog Maria's Secret Garden for the full story or my sister Jessica's blog as well...guess it seems that everyone is writing about them :)

I made some Sunny Day Cookies today, the easiest cookies ever to make, they are sweet and soooo good!!!

Well, I'm off!

I've got to go attend a meeting, get some painting done, and work on some one's shawl...

Have a happy Thursday!

Callie

Crafty Goodness Swap Show and Tell

2010-08-31T12:50:00.001-07:00

The funnest part of hosting this swap has been seeing what everyone made for each other. In order to make it easier for everyone to see what you made, or received please blog about them! In addition to that I made a link list from linky.com. Simply add your blog post on the list below, so that all the posts are in one place and easier to find. I am going to wait to post about what I made until my partner receives their gift, can't wait!

For those of you that have a flickr account I made a group for it as well. It is called Crafty Goodness Swap, simply follow this url: http://www.flickr.com/groups/1474285@N24/ or click here to join the group, and upload your pictures. If you don't have a flickr account it is really easy and free to join, it doesn't take long either.

Isn't show and tell swell? :)

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Inside My Sketchbooks+ Life

2010-08-30T18:18:00.000-07:00

There are two things in my life that are typical constants: drawing and running.

Somehow though I had gotten out out of the habit of doing them :(...

As you can see that is no longer the case! I have been drawing so much lately. I am very glad to be back in art classes again. I love to draw and this taking a drawing class has really pushed me back into the swing of it :)

I am also taking a physical conditioning class, which I am enjoying so far.
It was a lot of things but really I have really been wanting to begin again so this is the perfect way. I want to be healthier because I know that when I actually am running and drawing all the time things flow better.
And as you can see, I finally got around to taking better pictures of my sketchbook (which I blogged about here)!

This little bright green moleskin sketchbook I keep in my purse, just in case. Jessica (my sister) of Jessica Leigh La Lou actually drew this picture. Isn't it grand?

She's a really amazing artist!
I drew this fox below while sitting in the Dr. Pepper Museum, watching their old commercials.

This next one is the inside cover, which I attached a little quote my mom gave me from a fortune cookie to it.
It reads "You discover treasures where others see nothing unusual".

Wouldn't it be wonderful to ultimately find the treasures in everyday life? To see the extraordinary where others see the ordinary? That's what I try to do, to see the goodness that life offers, and make something with it :)

What "treasures" did you discover today?

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Swap Send Date

2010-08-26T20:38:00.000-07:00

1. visitor, 2. The wavy sleep., 3. in my livingroom, 4. first amigurumi job, 5. Alice in Wonderland, 6. Blue Dress, 7. Little Brother, 8. odessa17, 9. Blue flowers, 10. Untitled, 11. Petit Moi, 12. Singing in the Rain?, 13. Untitled, 14. ., 15. o pato, 16. 淘气小朋友, 17. Little Sweet Pudding, 18. はらドーナッツ, 19. Untitled, 20. rummaging for answers in the pages, 21. Untitled, 22. Postcard 1, 23. Swan, 24. Alice concept piece by Mary Blair, 25. Untitled

Today is the date for the Crafty Goodness Swap send off!

For those of you taking part be sure that your package is mailed off to your partner today.

My package was sent off last Thursday, and I can't wait to see what everyone has crafted up.

So exciting :)

Happy pappy Thursday!

Callie

Have Faith

2010-08-23T19:09:00.000-07:00

"Have faith in yourself and the future."

Ted Kennedy

Summer's Farewell

2010-08-22T17:00:00.000-07:00

Why must summer leave so quickly??

Not that I'll really miss the heat but rather the extra free time I get to work on projects. Actually I will be glad for the cooling that comes with fall, maybe I will actually be able to wear some of the cold weather things I have been making. That brings me to my latest finished project another shawl! I used the pattern 198 Yards of Heaven by Christy Verity, but I used four balls of yarn to make it bigger. It was made with Noro Chirimen in the green colorway.

I love the way it turned out.

Plus I had a little bit left-over, which is always nice,and guess what I made?

Ta-Da!!!
A headband!
It is from another free pattern called Tangled by Emily McLaughlin.
Click here to visit her blog, EmmyBear, and get the pattern.

I finished it in only two days, working on it on and off, yesterday and today.

This is Sheila "helping" me finish the headband, as she often does.

I love how peacful and sweet she looks like this :)

Then wam-oh!!

Oh no, watch out yarn!

You are her prey!!!!

I spent this afternoon cooking up some little treatsies for Jessica, so first up I made some chocolate covered strawberries. One of her favorites, of course.

Then I made some meltaway cookies, which she also loves but really we all love them.

I have been working on sewing up some pot-holders and other bits as well, trying but failing to forget today is the last day of summer...

Oh well, here's to a grand fall of new beginnings, new classes, and new-found friends!

XOXO, Callie

Turquoise Necklace

2010-08-21T07:59:00.000-07:00

The other day my precious kitty Sheila decided to chow down on the leather cord of one of my turquoise necklace. I was infuriated! It is one of my favorite to wear, however while lying in bed the other night I got inspired all of a sudden. I suddenly thought of the necklace I had in need of a cord, and the tiniest bit of Noro yarn leftover from making these socks. It seems strange that they went together so perfectly in color...

It was easy to do, and finished in one night. I strung on some black beads, and added a vintage button for the clasp. It is love!

I'm actually very glad that Sheila destroyed it now. I love it so much better than before.

Life is funny like that, isn't it?

Yummy Amigurumi

2010-08-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

I made some amigurumi food!

First up is a crochet cupcake that I made from the book Amigurumi World: Seriously Cute Crochet, even though I ended up making alot of alterations to it. Firstly I changed the frilly part on the icing because the way the pattern in the book said to do it and the way it was showing up on my cupcake was totally different, so I just did my own thing.

I did buttons for the eyes, felt for the mouth, and added a red pom pom to the top.
:)

Remember this little guy? I got the pattern for him all the way back in September 2009, which I wrote about here.
I actually started and finished him in the same day, it was so quick to do :)

Hooray for finishing projects!

How's your Thursday coming along?

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Draw Me Something

2010-08-17T20:52:00.000-07:00

"What do drawings mean to me? I really don't know. The activity absorbs me. I forget everything else in a way that I don't think happens with any other activity..." -John Berger

“In spite of everything I shall rise again: I will take up my pencil, which I have forsaken in my great discouragement, and I will go on with my drawing”-Vincent van Gogh

Sometimes, when you don't have anything better to do, you should crochet yourself a pencil and draw something with it.

Why a pencil you ask?

Because pencils are an ode to my love of drawing.

And in case you didn't know I love to draw.

Late Night Painting

2010-08-17T20:21:00.000-07:00

I have been working a whole lot and this had been resulted in trying to create things late at night. I have been doing a little of everything into the wee hours of night. As you can see also had to take these pictures late as well, so they aren't the best quality. Woops.
I found this watercolor book at Hobby Lobby a while back and was so excited! I couldn't wait to begin to paint, and so I did :)

This is the second page, a little owl carrying a basket.

I have been wanting to make a crochet blanket for some time and just started making little blocks from leftover bits of yarn. While listening to my ipod, everything seems to go by so quickly lately. I can hardly believe summer's almost over.

I just started reading the second book by Muriel Barbery called Gourmet Rhapsody. I read The Elegance of the Hedgehog a while ago and loved it. I immediately set out to see if she had any books and viola I found another! I've read so many good books this summer, as well as some bad ones, but all in all this was a summer of delicous books.

Yummy reading :)

Better pictures to follow on Thursday.

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

Randomness Abounds

2010-08-08T17:02:00.000-07:00

1. lucy's froggy bonnet & booties, 2. Sunflowers, 3. Yoke, 4. Green, 5. Bow competition in my blog, 6. good morning!, 7. -, 8. Untitled, 9. little visitor, 10. Far far, there's this little girl. She was praying for something good to happen to her. Everyday she writes words and more words just to speak out the thoughts that keep floating inside., 11. Aimee Creating, 12. sunday, 13. Perfect timing, 14. [02.05.09] squishy, 15. Wheat and Sunflowers, 16. babette's granny's terrain, 17. The Bass Rock, Scotland:), 18. Things I Love Thursdays, 19. Little horse, 20. vintage velvet mustard dress, 21. One Year, 22. Polaroid, 23. Tiny Things Collection 1, 24. La piccola fiammiferaia, 25. Mitten Kit

This summer is ending all too soon. I wish I could make each moment go slower somehow. But in reality I am happy for the coming year. Albeit there will be some major changes coming up, but I welcome them. Today I was off from work, and was seriously glad for the reprieve. I spent the day, crocheting, cleaning, and cooking. Not all at once of course. Lately I have been reading so much, book after countless book, that I feel like I have my own mini narrator running through my mind, complete with an important sounding voice and a philosophical attitude about life. Its strange. Just like this post. I have been running low on sleep, as you can probably tell. I am off to sleepy- time -land. Will talk more soon.

Hope your Sunday was relaxing.

XOXO, Callie

the magical bean

(P.S. This is probably my favorite Mumford and Sons song, from their new album. Enjoy!)

Lumberjack Gnome

2010-08-06T16:54:00.000-07:00

Look who's hiding in my garden??? A little lumberjack gnome!
I love his little mustache, notice his little belt buckle, green boots, pointy red hat, and divine mustache and beard. What more could a amigurumi lumberjack gnome ask for??!!!

This little gnome was crocheted from the pattern Amigurumi in the Garden and as usual I edited it from the pattern. It doesn't look anything like the original but then again that's why I like him.

Hope your Friday is great!!

xoxo, Callie

Texas State Cemetery+ Giveaway Received!

2010-08-05T09:08:00.000-07:00

We went to the Austin State Cemetery, on our way home from our trip.

There were many neat grave sites of so many famous people straight out of Texas History.

^^^Stephan F. Austin's grave. :)

Isn't this pond beautiful?

Also Pip received my giveaway package and did a post about it on her blog, Pip and Life. Click here to go by and see it. It's so sweet and cute! Thanks Pip ,for all your kind words, so glad you like your winnings. It was my pleasure :)