Giveaway: tag team tompkins

Today's final Handmade Holiday giveaway is from an Etsy shop that I've only known about since October; I've been infatuated since the moment I saw it.

It's no doubt that tag team tompkins letterpress prints are simply perfect. Black + White. Letterpress in the spirit of vintage paper cuts. Charming quotes for the everyday + holiday quotes for festive decor. Beautiful calligraphy + handmade goodness. Love, love, love.

Here's a brief bio from the dynamic duo that makes up tag team tompkins:

Diane and Madeline make paper art that centers around word play. Our original hand-lettered and paper cut designs and letterpress art prints let us express our love of paper, ink, and a bit of wisdom or humor.

We blend our midwestern sensibilities with a global itch. Travel near or far lights our imagination. We partner well together from years of practice, being mother and daughter.

This mother-daughter pair are working hard to crank out new designs all the time. I've already purchased several prints for our new home and I know exactly where they will go. Thank you Diane and Madeline for sharing your creative talents with us all!

{all photos courtesy of tag team tompkins}

The details:
tag team tompkins is kindly offering a set of the four prints pictured above to TWO lucky Narrating Life readers! Each print measures 5 x 7.

How to enter:
:: Check out the great prints in the tag team tompkins Etsy shop.
:: Please leave a comment on this post. Which letterpress print is your favorite? I love this one, and this one, and this one.
:: Grab a Handmade Holiday button and post it on your blog/website for an extra entry. Please leave an additional comment letting me know you did so.
:: Comments close on Friday, December 13th at 10:00 PM, MST. The winner will be posted here so be sure to check back to see if you've won! Closed

Congratulations Michelle & Debby. Please email me ASAP to claim your prints!

Handmade Holiday 2010: a series about making it happen.

Giveaway: More Last-Minute Knitted Gifts

Today I have another giveaway for you knitters and friends-of-knitters. It's a book that you've no doubt seen popping up in your yarn stores and on bloggers' faves lists. Also, it's a perfect book to add to your collection right now, when you're filling a big (ahem) pressed for time. (Please don't tell me I'm the only one!)

More Last-Minute Knitted Gifts is one of those books that makes you want to dog-ear every single project. Except you would never actually do that to your fancy new book. The author, Joelle Hoverson, is the founder of Purl Soho in Manhattan and if you've ever stopped by their blog, The Purl Bee, you know that Joelle and her team are a whirlwind of creativity.

The projects in the book are divided up into five sections: less than 2-hour gifts, 2-4 hour gifts, 4-6 hour gifts, 6-8 hour gifts and more-than-8 hour gifts. I think this is especially perfect for new knitters who may not yet be able to gauge how long a project might take. There is also portions of the book devoted to wrapping and personalizing your gifts. Something we all know is so important for our cherished handmades.

Here are a few of my favorite (fast) projects:

You know you can never have too many knit blankets and baskets.

This scarf would look gorgeous on every single one of my friends.

I have seven baby gifts on my list.

For my brother-in-law.

{all photos via STC craft, view more here}

The details:
One Narrating Life reader will receive a copy of More Last-Minute Knitted Gifts courtesy of STC.

How to Enter:
:: Check out the project gallery for More Last-Minute Knitted Gifts. You can also browse Joelle's other books: Last-Minute Knitted Gifts, and Last-Minute Patchwork & Quilted Gifts.
:: Leave a comment on this blog: What is your favorite holiday cookie? We just made peppermint fudge cookies, mmm...
:: Grab a Handmade Holiday button and post it on your blog/website for an extra entry. Please leave an additional comment letting me know you did so.
:: Comments close on Friday, December 10, at 10:00 MST. The winner will be announced on this post so be sure to check back to see if you've won.

Congratulations, Greeneyes! Please contact me to claim your prize!


P.S. Be sure to check the past giveaways posts to see if you're one of the lucky winners!

Handmade Holiday 2010: a series about making it happen.

Giveaway :: Modern Top-Down Knitting

Today's Handmade Holiday Giveaway is doing double duty as a blog tour stop for Modern Top-Down Knitting. To say I'm excited about this review/giveaway would be an understatement. I have a copy of the book sitting shiny and new right in front of me, just waiting to be packaged and sent to a lucky reader. It will be perfect for making an extra special handmade gift, or for passing along to your favorite knitter. I know you're going to love it.

At first glance, the projects and patterns in this book might appear too difficult for anyone but the expert knitter. But a quick read through the introduction will make you believe otherwise. The author, Kristina McGowan, describes her own journey into top-down knitting using the techniques and philosophies pioneered by, Barbara Walker. Kristian explains her own reservations about using Walker's book and later learning that "not only were no elaborate skills required, but the ideas were exiting and revelatory..."

The beauty of these patterns is that being made from the top and often in-the-round makes it possible to try on the garment while it is being knit giving you full control of length and fit. Also, and this is a big seller for me, there is no seaming! I hate seams. The three key techniques used for this kind of knitting are the provisional cast on- short row shaping, and sitting in sleeves seamlessly. Each of these techniques are thoroughly described with plenty of pictures to help you along.

I took my copy of Modern Top-Down Knitting with me on vacation so that my sister-in-law and I could get a chance to really study it. We spent two days oohing and aaahing over all of the projects, the gorgeous photography, and the matte texture of the pages, which I'm always a sucker for. And since I'm sure you're dying to know, here are just a few of the projects that have made my to-make list:

I really wish I had been wearing these when we pulled up to our house yesterday.

This hat is not only a gorgeous pattern, but would make it in exactly that color.

Mmm, I love tunics. Don't you?

And now...for a giveaway.

The Details:

One lucky Narrating Life reader will receive a copy of Modern Top-Down Knitting: Sweaters, Dresses, Skirts & Accessories Inspired by the Techniques of Barbara G. Walker courtesy of STC.

How to enter:

:: Check out the other blogs on the blog tour for Modern Top-Down Knitting here as well as the project gallery here.

:: Leave a comment on this post: What is first on your holiday to-do list?

:: Post a Handmade Holiday button on your blog or website for an extra entry. Please leave another comment letting me know you did so.

:: Comments will closed on Friday, December 3rd at 10:00 PM, MST. Closed

Congratulations Anna! Please email me ASAP to claim your prize!

P.S. The next stop on the blog tour is the lovely Knit-a-While. Be sure to head over there tomorrow for a Q & A!

Handmade Holiday 2010: a series about making it happen.

Handmade Holiday :: Gifts for Guys

I'm not going to pretend that guys are easy to give handmade gifts to. You all know better than that. In fact, Jill said that her husband was "a mystery wrapped in a riddle and is practically gift-resistant." Yikes. That's rough. But for those guys who maybe aren't so "gift-resistant," here are a few suggestions:

For your toddler:
Have you seen Dana's collection of tutorials and patterns that "Celebrate the Boy?"
I hear the hot new thing is Matchbox car caddies!
Remember, aprons aren't just for girls!
I'm pretty sure we can never have too many molded crayons.
How about a giant spaceship?

For your tween:
I think every kid needs a sketchbook.
Even softies can be cool if they're dead.
You've heard that skinny ties are in right?
How about subway art featuring lyrics to his favorite song?

For your man:
Has anybody put this bookto the test?
Sew Mama Sew has a few suggestions.
Does he need an iphone case?
How about a laptop sleeve?
Umm...let's never forget about food, okay? I suggest these, these, or these.

So. It's your turn. Did any of these ideas help? What are you making for your man this year? Do tell. I promise he doesn't read the comments on this blog.

Handmade Holiday 2010: a series about making it happen

Handmade Holiday :: Reader Questions

Hello! Don't you think it is about time I posted a couple of those reader questions I promised? Me too. Let's do this.

My friend Rendy made this request:

I need IDEAS!!! I rarely read blogs, so I don't see the cute stuff that's out there. My homemade Christmas list includes: some "prints"- graphic designed, framed little artworks that are mostly gospel/hymn related. An apron and some sewn "food" for my daughter. Perhaps some rice neck-warmer thingies. (LAME) As you can see- I'm in dire need of some IDEAAAAAS! Help!

Okay Rendy. First of all, you have a great list started! Plus, those "rice neck-warmer thingies" are not lame. They're rad. That being said, here are a few more idea:

:: Skip to My Lou is a great blog to keep in mind for inspiration. They have excellent tutorials (I used this one to make a crayon roll; but I really like this tutorial for an entire art case) and handy round-ups such as this one featuring free bag patterns! Browse their site for a while and you're sure to find some inspiration.

:: If you're making an apron and food for your daughter, she's going to need a chef's hat.

:: I've always wanted to make Destri's hot pad apron. Maybe for your sister-in-law?

:: The Purl Bee has kindly been compiling lists of handmade gifts that can be made in time for Christmas if you start now. I seem to remember you crochet, correct?

:: My friend made me one of these and I love it so much.

:: Have you seen this collection of felt food tutorials?

:: You're such a great photographer, I think you should make something special to show off your photos of your kids.


My friend Peggy had this question:

I just got a sewing machine a few days ago, and now I'm wondering about sewing resources on the web. Is there something akin to Ravelry? Is there a particular spot you'd point a true beginner to?

Yay new sewing machines! This question is a little tougher because I consider myself a novice at sewing too. Here are a few of the resources I turn to when I'm needing help.

:: Burda Style is the closest thing I can find to Ravelry for sewing. It can be a little intimidating but it has great tutorials and a lot of free or inexpensive patterns.

:: Sew, Mama, Sew is great not only because of their wonderful tutorials but also because you can purchase fabric and books from them.

:: Whip up is one of those all-encompassing blogs that posts inspiration, patterns, and tutorials for sewing, crocheting, knitting, and everything in between. This round-up had me oohing and ahhing.

:: I recently purchased this book and am planning on sewing my way through every project. It's a book designed to teach sewing techniques in a logical sequence, building upon the techniques you've learned with each project. The author, Deborah, also writes a great blog. Of course.

So how's that for a start? Do you have any more suggestions for Rendy and Peggy? If so, please share them! Also, I would love to learn your favorite sources for inspiration when it comes to handmade gifts. Thanks for sharing!

Handmade Holiday 2010: A series about making it happen.

Giveaway :: Knitterella

Imagine you've finally finished making all the gifts you had planned for your family and friends. Your fingers have burns from the hot glue gun. Your thumb is sore from knitting too long. Your back is a mess of spasms from bending over your sewing machine. And now you're done. Now it is time to wrap your gifts. You've chosen a beautiful color scheme to wrap all your present in—it's going to look just like that picture from Pottery Barn. As you go to label the gifts with the recipients names it feels like something is....missing. It doesn't feel like any old tag will do. You put a lot of work into these gifts! Isn't there some kind of tag you can add to let people know that you care about them enough to actually make them a gift?

Well, yes. Yes there is. And they're made by Knitterella.
The first time I spotted Miss Knitterella's gift tags and stationary sets I was smitten. Not only do they add the perfect handmade touch to gifts, but some of them are hilarious.


Knitterella has also created a stationary line that includes cards and notepads. Her simple designs and bright colors would be a welcome addition to any knitters stash.

The details:
Knitterella has kindly offered 3 items of your choice from her stationary line to one Narrating Life reader.


How to enter:
:: Check out Knitterella's online shop. Her blog is also great for knitting inspiration.
:: Leave a comment on this post: What will your wrapped presents look like this year? Is it different every year?
:: Grab a Handmade Holiday button and post it on your blog/website for an extra entry. Please leave an extra comment letting me know you did so.
:: Comments close on Saturday, November 20th at 10:00 PM, MST. The winner will be announced on this post so be sure to check back to see if you've won! Closed

Congratulations jt! Please email me to claim your prize!

Thank you Knitterella, and good luck everyone!

Handmade Holiday 2010: A series about making it happen.

Giveaway :: Penguin Bot

I'm not much of a purse girl, I have to admit. I've never been very good at keeping multiple bags on hand so that I can coordinate them with outfits. I can't peruse online galleries of the latest handbags and I am completely lost when it comes to the fashion end of these functional items. That being said, a girl has to have a purse. Rather, a mom has to have a purse. And if I have to have a purse, I would prefer that it be made by PenguinBot.

PenguinBot totes are sturdy and hip. Laurel, who is the founder of PenguinBot (and my sister-in-law!), has an eye modern fabric and she combines it with gorgeously colored vinyl to create totes that can be both abused and admired. I never go anywhere with my PenguinBot tote that it doesn't get compliments. And believe me, I got everywhere with that bag. It is, after all, the only one that I have.

The details:
Laurel has kindly offered one small tote to a Narrating Life readers. Here's what she has to say about the tote:

We used sturdy, high-quality marine-grade dark red vinyl for the bottom and straps, then paired it with an awesome yellow, red, and gray damask fabric for the upper. (Is it flowers? Is it owl eyes? Is it just an awesome geometric pattern? You make the call!) It's the perfect size to hold all your necessities, as well as anything you need to toss in at the last minute, like a book or some snacks. This sweet tote is fully lined with cotton fabric and includes an inner patch pocket so you can keep your lip gloss and your phone at the ready.

Size: 10" long, 10.5" tall, 3.5" depth

How to enter:
:: Check out the PenguinBot online shop for a selection of totes, oven mitts, knit clutches, and coin purses.
:: Leave a comment on this post: Are you a purse girl? How many handbags do you own?
:: Comments will close on Satuday, November 20th at 10:00 PM, MST. The winner will be announced on this post so be sure to check back to see if you've won! Closed

Congratulations Bethany! Please email me to claim your bag!

A few more things:
:: If you live in California, you can find PenguinBot atthe Holiday Market in San Diego, Bazaar Bizarre in San Fransisco, and the San Diego Holiday Hit List.
:: If you live in Seattle, you can check out PenguinBot's wares in person at the CakeSpy shop.

Good Luck!

Handmade Holiday 2010: A series about making it happen.

Guest Post :: Jill's Favorite

Please welcome Jill from, Creative Musings and Such, to Narrating Life. Jill is witty, down-to-earth, and totally capable of inspiring the masses to save the postal service with good mail. You're going to love the gift that she has put together to share with us today. In fact, I kind of just want to make one for myself right now.

When I am going to give someone a gift, my approach is usually to be as thoughtful and personal as possible. I believe this stems from the fact that my Love Language is gifts ("Don’t mistake this love language for materialism; the receiver of gifts thrives on the love, thoughtfulness, and effort behind the gift. If you speak this language, the perfect gift or gesture shows that you are known, you are cared for, and you are prized above whatever was sacrificed to bring the gift to you. A missed birthday, anniversary, or a hasty, thoughtless gift would be disastrous—so would the absence of everyday gestures." --Gary Chapman) so it is a big deal for me to do the best I can for the person I am giving the gift to.

Disclaimer: this is not always possible, especially when giving a gift to my husband who after 16.11 years of marriage is still a mystery wrapped in a riddle and is practically gift-resistant.

But I digress...I have a great love for sending and receiving mail, so several years ago when I participated in a blog swap called Pink Christmas I came up with the idea of making a Good Mail Kit for the woman I was assigned to send a gift to. I didn't know her personally, so the best I could do was to use her color preferences and initials for the cards and labels I made to go inside the kit.

For her kit, I used the medium size of the world's cutest suitcase as the container for the kit. I then took various card/envelope sets and used rubber stamps and rub-ons to create specific sets of thank you notes, birthday cards, and thinking of you notes. I also included some smaller notes to serve as cards to include with gifts.

Along with the various sets of stationery, I included several of my favorite smooth-writing black pens, a sheet of postage stamps, and some good mail labels (made by me).

I ended up giving this gift two more times as I continued to participate in the Pink Christmas swap (which is no longer happening) and improved upon my idea each year by wrapping each set of note cards in ribbon, because it looks more festive and really, who doesn't love ribbon?

If you were making this gift for someone you know well you could include a small address book or printed copy of family addresses so they could keep everything in the case. You could also make or order address labels so they could just stick them on the envelopes (this may be particularly helpful for those who have a tendency to find excuses for not writing notes).

You may have also spied the cds I included with my Good Mail Kits; those were just a Christmas music mix I included just for fun, but if you know how to make those I'm sure your recipient would welcome a mix from you as well.

I gotta say, this gift just makes me happy. I have a room overflowing in mailing supplies and stationery, yet when I look at these Good Mail Kits I find myself wanting one. Is there a name for this obsession, stationeryitis perhaps? I don't know. But if loving it is wrong, I don't want to be right.

Handmade Holiday 2010: A series about making it happen.

Giveaway :: The Mini Mart

Even though I spend an awful lot of time talking about yarn and fabric on this little blog, I still have a secret obsession with paper. Actually, if you took a good look at my craft room you would realize that it isn't a secret at all. But I'm fairly certain that my paper-crafting skills don't hold a candle to Marta's.

I'm also fairly certain that most of you read Marta's blog. I recommend adding her to your reader if you're looking for daily doses of inspiration, daily reminders of how beautiful everyday life can be, daily confirmation that it is hard for everyone to keep a clean kitchen with a toddler toddling behind you, and daily posts that read like you're chatting with your best friend. Plus she lives in Idaho—and that's where I live—so, you know.

Every time Marta posts one of her many paper crafts or brilliant artistic ventures it reconfirms in my mind that she truly is a paper girl. I am thrilled that she is sharing some of her paper wares with you for today's giveaway.


The Details:
Marta is kindly offering a set of 6 homemade holiday cards + 2 sheets of Jolly Old St. Nick stickers to one lucky Narrating Life reader!

How to enter:
:: Check out Marta's shop to get a glimpse of her lovely paper goods.
:: Leave a comment on this post: What makes you feel like the holidays have officially started? For me, it is drinking peppermint hot chocolate—oh yeah, then it's on.
:: Grab the Handmade Holiday button and post it on your blog/website for an extra entry. Please leave me an additional comment letting me know you've done so.
:: Comments close on Thursday, November 18th at 10:00 PM, MST. The winner will be announced on this post so be sure to check back to see if you've won! Closed

Congratulations Hil! Please contact me to claim your prize!

Handmade Holiday 2010: A series about making it happen.