Happy New Year!!!

2009 brought me many blessings, just too many to list and count in 1 blog post.

In addition to my fantastic family and co-workers, I opened my Etsy shop (www.Crochooley.etsy.com ) in April of this year and was blessed with 24 sales with the 24th sale being made just this last Sunday. How neat is that?? I also had other sales made off etsy site. For some shops on Etsy, that # may be very small, but for me that # is huge. (I'll explain why in a future blog post.)

This year I discovered merely by accident and became a member of the Lake City Handcrafter's group. These are the most fantastic bunch of women you could meet. The group was formed by Celena Crews whom has her own Etsy shop -

(www.rocketyarn.etsy.com Artistically Dyed Yarn, Spinning Fiber & Other Fun Goodies for Fiber Lovers).

Celena introduced me to the wonderful world of spinning. Shortly thereafter I acquired my own Louet Spinning Wheel which was made possible by the friendship of Celena and Sharon Emery, co-owner of Hanks Yarns in Gainesville, FL (http://www.hanksyarn.com - Sharon is the one on the far right).

My Louet Wheel (aka Lu Lu Bell) and I introduced a few color combinations this year. BUT, you haven't seen anything yet. We are already working on even more various plastic yarn color combinations that will be introduced in 2010. Yes, I did say PLASTIC YARN!!!

I could go on and on but you get the picture that 2009 was a great year for me. I'm looking so forward to 2010 because I know there will be many new adventures to go on, friendships to acquire and other doors that will open.

Plastique Recreations wishes everyone a very safe but Happy New Year!!!

Merry Christmas and a very Happy but Safe New Year!!!!

It doesn't matter what language you say it in -

Because it's all the same .................

From Plastique Recreations!!!

Plastique BOGO Promo For Weekend 12/12 & 12/13!!!!

Buy Any Eco-Friendly Market Bag from http://www.crochooley.etsy.com

and Get a 2nd Eco-Friendly Market Bag at 50% off...

(This applies to current and sold listings. Email or Convo (via Etsy) me if you are interested in one of the sold listings.)

Here's a little secret, because I am in the Christmas spirit, if there is something else in my store that interests you more, I'm sure your request can be accomodated. Just let me know.....

For Returning Customers - of course the deal is sweeter ... in addition to the BOGO 50% off, you also get FREE SHIPPING!!!
(The standard 10% discount and free shipping offered to returning customers is a separate discount and will be honored if you are not interested in the BOGO promo.)

If I can assist you with a customized order or if you have any questions about the promo or any listing in my shop, I can be reached thru any of the following:

Convo me in Etsy
By email at plastiquerecreations@yahoo.com
In Twitter at www.twitter.com/plastiqrecreat
In Facebook at www.facebook.com/plastiqrecreat
In MySpace at www.myspace.com/plastiqrecreat
Ravelry lookup - Crochooley

Etsy Business Package Giveaway

I couldn't resist... I entered another give-away and just in the nick of time. The entry deadline is today...

It's called the 'Business Package Giveaway' and from what I have read about it, it's priceless.

Here are the details: http://etsyselling.com/2009/11/business-package-giveaway/

KEEP YOUR FINGERS CROSSED - WISH ME LUCK!!!!

Plastique BOGO Promo For Weekend Ending 12/5 & 12/6!!!!

Happy Holidays!!!!

I'm in the holiday spirit and decided December was the month to offer Buy One Get One (BOGO) promotions ....

So here's your big chance to get that unique gift or stocking stuffer for that special someone, co-worker, friend, family member, neighbor, babysitter, nanny - see I have something for everyone!!!

While you're at it ... go ahead and buy something for yourself!!!!

BOGO deal of December for the weekend of 12/5 & 12/6 -

Buy Any Item at Full Price at http://www.crochooley.etsy.com/ and Get the Second Item of equal or lesser value at 50% off...
(This applies to current and sold listings. Convo me if you are interested in one of the sold listings.)

For Returning Customers - the deal is even sweeter ... you also get FREE SHIPPING!!!
(The standard 10% discount and free shipping offered to returning customers is a separate discount and will only be honored if you are not interested in the BOGO promo.)


If I can assist you with a customized order or if you have any questions about the promo or any listing in my shop, I can be reached thru any of the following:

• Convo me in Etsy
• By email at plastiquerecreations@yahoo.com
• In Twitter at www.twitter.com/plastiqrecreat
• In Facebook at www.facebook.com/plastiqrecreat
• In MySpace at www.myspace.com/plastiqrecreat
• Ravelry lookup - Crochooley

Plastique Holiday Give-Away!!!

Due to the excitement of winning a give-away, it was only fitting that I continue the act of 'giving' ....

With that being said, I'm hosting

I FINALLY WON SOMETHING!!!!

Did you ever meet someone who tells you - "I never win anything...."

Well, I'm happy to say that doesn't apply to me any more thanks to - http://www.seventhcloudstudio.etsy.com.

Shop Owner, Courtney Williams, held a Thanksgiving giveaway which I entered via Courtney's Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/people/Courtney-D-Williams/1469052171) and won.

I am the proud winner of a $25.00 gift certificate from Seventh Cloud Studio. If you have visited her shop (if not, you really should), then you understand my dilemna. Deciding what to get will not be an easy task because her jewelry line definitely has 'altitude'.

Thank you, Courtney, for making my Thanksgiving even more special!!!

Plastique Duffle Bag with Plastic Fusion Fabric Lining

I initially created the Plastique Duffle Bag to keep all my crochet/knit supplies organized when my husband and I go on road trips.

Once it was all put together, I started using it practically for everything. On one occasion, I needed an overnight bag. While packing it, I was nothing short of amazed at exactly how much stuff it could hold. It practically had no capacity mitation. Trust me - the pics just don't do it justice.

Here is a rough layout of the pattern:

• The front and back panels are created with a large granny square design alternating black and white.


• 2 One panel starts with black and the other panel starts with white. This pattern is worked alternating colors every 2 rows ending with opposite color than started with.

-------------------------------------------------------

FYI - If you are unfamiliar with the granny square pattern, below is how I make a Granny Square:

Foundation Round: Chain 4, being careful not to twist the chain, join w/sl st to first chain to form a small loop.

ROUND 1: Ch 4 or use the Chainless starting (turning) dc, *3 dc into center of ring, ch 1. *Repeat around 3 times. 2 dc into center of ring; join w/sl st to third chain of the beginning ch4 or chainless starting dc.

Changing Colors: Ch1, leave a small tail for weaving, cut yarn then draw yarn through to make a knot. With new color, join with a sl st in a corner.

Continuing with same color: Sl st into each st until you reach the ch1 stitch at a corner.

ROUND 2: Forming the corner-Ch 3 or use Chainless starting (turning) dc, dc2, ch1, dc3 all in the same stitch. Make 3 more corners - *ch1, skip over the 3 dc from round 1. *dc3, ch1, dc3 all in the same stitch, ch1; *repeat around two more times. Join 2/sl st to third chain of beginning chain or chainless starting dc.

ROUND 3: Working the corner, ch 3 or use Chainless starting (turning) dc, *dc2, ch1, dc3 all in the same stitch. Work remaining sides: * ch1, skip over the 3 dc from round 2, dc3 all in the same stitch, ch1. Work corner dc3, ch1, dc3; ch1, repeat from * two more times. Join w/sl st to third chain of beginning chain4 or chainless starting dc.

Follow this same pattern for desired number of rounds.

-----------------------------------------------------

• Front and Back: Make 2 large squares.


• Side panel: Make 2 - one black, one white. (Note: The width is a matter of choice.) The side panel on this bag measures 81/2" wide. I accomplished with a chain of 27. Hdc in 2nd ch from hook and across for 20 rows.

Using a whip stitch, I



















Like most artisans, I have several wip's. Since I never know what I'm going to be in the mood to do,

Plastique Buyer's Choice Holiday Promotion

Are you looking for something different and/or unique either for yourself, friend, co-worker or loved one? Look no further!!

Starting today Thursday, 11/26 through end of day Monday, 11/30 - Make a purchase in either of my shops:

http://www.crochooley.etsy.com/

http://www.plastiquerecreations.ecrater.com/

Receive either 20% off your total order or get Free Shipping

Don't see anything you like in the current or sold listings? No problem, a customized order can be accomplished.

You've purchased from my store before? Fantastic!! That's even better. Because I am a firm believer that a returning customer is one of the best forms of flattery, you get to choose from the following options:

• 10% off total order and receive Free Shipping

OR

• 20% off total order or Free Shipping

Note to Buyer:

• Refunds will be made after payment of purchase
• Don't forget - you still get a free gift with every purchase

If you have any questions, you can reach me via one of the following of your choice:

• email: plastiquerecreations@yahoo.com
• Etsy: Convo
• eCrater: Ask Seller a Question
  

Plastique Recreations wishes you a safe but Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Plastique Fall Tote Featured on Craftgawker

As I was weeding my way through the various Etsy forums, I encountered a title indicating '...acceptance on Craftgawker..'. I had never heard of them before and from what I read, getting accepted was difficult.

What is Craftgawker - here is a copy and paste from their website of what they are all about:

"craftgawker is a gallery where anyone can showcase their art, crafting and photography skills. It's a place for you to discover new artists and handmade goods to inspire your own creations."

It was indicated in the Etsy forums that in some circumstances, it has taken an artist multiple to several submissions before getting accepted.

So I decided to give it a try. I had just finished creating my Plastique Fall Eco-Friendly Tote (made from Home Depot plastic bags) and had received several compliments on it. This is one of my favorite totes because of the gorgeous color combination of orange, green and brown.

Can you believe it, my first submission was accepted: http://craftgawker.com/post/2009/11/14/7958/

Other than a purchase, that is the second best form of flattery.

Thanks for letting me share this experience with you.

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How to Make Blue Jean Yarn

Since posting my Blue Jean yarn in Etsy, I've received several requests for a 'how-to'.

Below are the steps I take to make blue jean yarn. I welcome your feedback. If you do it differently, I would love to know how you do it.

To start -

• Take a pair of blue jeans and cut the legs off at the crotch.



• Lay pant leg flat on cutting surface with one seam on top and other seam on bottom. (If you have a really sharp rotary cutter or good scissors, this can also be done in a double layer. Not sure I would go more than that but feel free to give it a try.) Cut off the bottom seam.



• Fold the bottom seam up to within 1" to 2" from top seam. (Note: the top seam is used as your stopper to keep from cutting straight thru.) Use the continuous strand method, (here is my tutorial: http://plastiqrecreation.blogspot.com/2009/04/continuous-single-strand-strip-cutting.html) to cut up each leg. (Note: The width of the strip cut will depend on the project needs to achieve an accurate gauge. For example, 1/4" cut would work for a scarf; 1/2" to 1" would work for a rug)

Keep each strip in a separate pile.

After all jeans are cut up, either by hand or with your sewing machine - stitch the ends of each strand together with clear thread. You now have 1 very, very long strand.

Throw this very long strand in the washing machine. (If the jeans were cleaned before you started cutting, the 'rinse and spin' cycle is sufficient. If not, wash as normal.)

Then into the dryer. Be prepared for a nice surprise when the dryer stops. (Note: When it does come out of the dryer, it'll be a big mess. Be prepared to spend alittle time untangling.)

Quite honestly, the blue jean yarn is ready to go now. Feel free to get out the knitting needles or crochet hook and let the creative juices take over.

OR - go one step further and spin -

For Handspun (either with a drop spindle or spinning wheel) -
I used a single ply, so really either an 'S' or 'Z' twist is sufficient. It really doesn’t matter because you're just wanting to achieve that tight twist affect.

(My Disclaimer - I'm new to the wonderful world of spinning so my use of terms may be alittle spotty.)

Copyright 2009 Plastique Recreations. All rights reserved.

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Blue/White Plarn Crochet Tote-Market Bag

Please Understand: Any patterns or information posted on this blog are copyright protected by Plastique Recreations. Please DO NOT post them in whole or in part anywhere or claim them as yours just because they are posted here. I am sharing my designs for free as a courtesy. It is not fair to any designer for another person to even make the slightest of change to another designer's pattern then claim it as your own. Please respect the copyright.


Making anything out of plastic bags is always a good idea if for no other reason but to keep it out of the landfill!!! This is what Plastique Recreations is all about.


I'm sharing this pattern for my Blue/White Plarn Crochet Tote-Market Bag since it has been my biggest seller in Etsy. But more importantly, because I have received several requests for it. Ask and you shall receive >>>>


NOTES:
This is a very simple pattern working from the top down.

• Skilly Level: Easy (If you know the the pattern stitches.)




• Pattern stitches used: single crochet (sc), decrease single crochet, (dec sc), half-double crochet (hdc), and double crochet (dc).

Materials:

Approximately 30-35 plastic grocery bags (or approx 230 yards of plastic yarn) of your choice.

(Note: just in case you haven't made your plastic yarn yet, here is the link to access the double-strand loop method: http://plastiqrecreation.blogspot.com/2009/04/double-strand-cutting-and-connecting.html)

Hook: I-9/5.50mm
9" Button

Yarn Needle for sewing bottom seam and attaching straps

Measurements:
Top to Bottom: 11 1/2"
Side to Side: 14 1/2"
Strap Width: 3"
Strap Length: 27" long

Instructions:

Top Ribbing -

Rnd 1: Ch70. Being careful to not twist the chain, join with sl st to first chain to form a large loop. Hdc in same stitch and in each ch around. Join with sl st to top of 1st hdc.

Rnd 2-4: Ch1, hdc in same st as sl st. Hdc in each st around. Join with sl st to top of 1st hdc.

Open Net -

Rnd 5: In same st as sl st, either using the traditional ch3 or the Chainless starting dc method, *ch2, skip a st and dc in next st. Repeat from * around. Join with sl st to top of ch 3 or chainless starting dc.

Rnd 6-13 (or desired length): Dc in ch2 space (using the traditional ch3 or the Chainless starting dc), ch 2. *Dc in next ch2 space, ch2. *Repeat from * around. Join with sl st to top of ch3 or chainless starting dc.

Bottom ribbing:

Rnd 14: Sc in same st as sl st. *2 sc in ch2 space, sc in dc space from previous row. Repeat from * around. Join with sl st to top of first sc.

Rnd 15: Sc in same st as sl st. Make dec sc. *Sc in next st and dec sc. Repeat from * around. Join with sl st to top of first sc.

Rn16: Sc in same st as sl st. Make dec sc twice. *Sc in next st. Make dec sc twice. Repeat from *around. Join with sl st to top of first sc. Fasten off.

Strap:

Row 1: Starting with a tail (the tail will be used to sew strap onto bag), ch9. Dc in 3rd ch from hook and in each st of foundation ch. Ch 1, turn.

Row 2-35 (or desired length): Dc in first space (using the traditional ch3 or the Chainless starting dc) and in each ch across. Join with sl st to top of dc. Fasten off with a tail (the tail will be used to sew strap onto bag).

Flap: Decide which side of bag will be front and will be back. Fold bag or other method of choice to find middle st. From middle st, count 2 sts to left and 2 sts to right.

Row 1: Join plarn at 5th st with a sl st, hdc in sl st and in next 4 sts across. Ch1, turn.

Row 2-?? (or desired length): Hdc in ch1 and in each st across. Ch1, turn.

Row ??: Hdc in ch1 sp and in next st. Ch2, skip st. Hdc in last 2 st. Ch1, turn.

Row ??: Hdc in ch1 sp and in each st across. (Note: For the ch2 space, your choice to make the hdc in each chain or chain space.) Fasten off.

Eco-Friendly Grab and Go Plarn (plastic yarn) Market Bag

The Plarn Market Bag/Tote of My Dreams

For the record, I love all the market bag/totes I make - however, we are allowed to have a favorite and this is it!!!


My Eco-Friendly Grab and Go Plarn (plastic yarn) Bag: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29520417 was put to the durability and user-friendly test and it passed with flying colors.

My husband and I recently made a trip to Canada for a family visit. I used this bag to hold my crochet stuff I took to keep me busy on the plane and during the lay overs in additional to other stuff I put in it.


The straps made pulling stuff out and putting stuff in so easy. Above all it lived up to it's name of 'Grab and Go' because all I had to do was pull the long strap thru the small strap then over my shoulder it went and I was off.

Handspun VCR Tape

Coming up with new recycling ideas is always fun. It allows us to explore without judgment -because skies the limit. There is no right or wrong.

We've read and seen projects that have been crocheted and knitted with vcr tape. When you stop and think about it, it's really kind of neat. Something that's almost obsolete has been given new meaning.

Here are a few sites that offer creative vcr tape ideas:
My Recycle Bags: http://www.myrecycledbags.com/category/vcr-video-tape-crafts/
Craftbits: http://www.craftbits.com/project/vhs-tape-clutch-purse

You would think just looking at it, it would feel rough and unpleasant - WRONG!!! It's very giving and is pleasant to the touch. But, just like everything else, what is not to one person may be to another.

Your creative juices are flowing and you just can't wait to get your hands on some. Look no further and wait no longer. Let me help you get started exploring the wonderful world of crochet or knit with vcr tape. Here's how you can receive handspun vcr tape for FREE:

• Receive a complimentary 100 continuous yards of handspun vcr tape FREE with a purchase of $10 or more (not including shipping cost).
• Receive a complimentary 200 continuous yards of handspun vcr tape FREE with a purchase of $20 or more (not including shipping cost).

Visit Crochooley.etsy.com for more details ><><><

What Eco Elegance looks like to me

WalMart has this really soft, delicious looking two tone green plastic to put your vegetables and fruit in. Of course, I wasn't going to throw it away. So I wanted to see what it would look like as a purse. This turned out better than I thought. To give it an even more touch of class, I added lace across the front.

Here are some additional pictures to show the different sides. It has lots of room. This purse is so soft to the touch.

Create Crochet Team Promo Madness Sale!!!!

As a member of the Etsy Create Crochet Team, I am participating as well as other members of the team in an awesome sale you just don't want to miss!!!!

The sale begins Tuesday, August 25 at 2pm EST (Etsy time) through Thursday, August 27 until midnight EST (Etsy time).

Buy anything in Crochooley.etsy.com at full price and receive 10% off the next item.
To receive the discount price, just enter the code "CCT" in a note to me.

My shop offers a color assortment of plarn balls ready for you to begin that craft project as well as an array of market bags/totes. Customized orders (color and/or size) are also available during this sale.

Don't miss out on this fantastic sale. Now is the time to get a jump start on your holiday shopping.

Here is the link to the Create Crochet Team Blog: http://createcrochet.blogspot.com/2009/08/createcrochet-team-promo-madness.html

Plarn (plastic yarn) Sport Pouch

My Plarn (plastic yarn) version of a Placemat Bag

There are some decisions in life that just take a little longer to make a final determination. For the longest time I have struggled with designing and creating a bag that was condusive to my style .. they are always tooooooo big or tooooooooo small. Choosing the right color, the right pattern stitch, etc... So many decisions.

I'll admit that there are a few websites and blogs that I have an addiction to. Can't stay off of them and do a refresh several times to see what new item was just added. There is no cure for this addiction other than to just take the computer away from me.

While viewing all the beautiful creations on craftster.org, I came across this really cute and creative placemat tote tutorial: http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=93668.0

I fell in love with the concept and decided, this may just be 'IT' 'THE ONE' ....

So I decided to make a crochet version of it. I did make some minor modifications to the oval-ness of it. I wanted square corners. Of course it was made with plarn (plastic yarn) and added circles to the base of the straps to give it a little more interest.

Here are pictures of it empty and with contents. Also, it expands when being carried, and then flattens sitting on the ground.

I added a zipper lining.

Here is a side view - can you guess what the circles are? When you break open a water bottle, the circle is what remains on the bottle.

Copyright 2009 Plastique Recreations. All rights reserved.