Tuesday, September 14, 2010

A few minutes here, a few minutes there...

Since school began, I've been trying to spend a little time each evening doing something I enjoy.

Something creative.

Something purposeful that doesn't include the use of cleaning products.

Most of the time it's less than half an hour.

But that's OK.

These cuffs are the perfect project to work on for a few minutes here, a few minutes there.

Total instant gratification.

I've made other cuffs.

Lots of cuffs, in fact. Each one has been an attempt to get it "just right".

The stitches didn't give me fits; It was the ends that had to be refined.

After much trial and error, I think I've got it worked out. At the very least, I'm getting darn close.

I used crochet thread, size 3 and a D hook.

The outer edges are done in single crochet. The middle is whatever I feel like stitching at the time. I really don't give it much thought.

I used one big loop and button as a closure on these cuffs, but I've also used two smaller loop and button combinations.

I think I prefer the double button closure. It lays a lot flatter and stays that way throughout the day.

I finish them by blocking and then spraying them with starch. It gives the thread a lot more body.

It's all cotton thread, so if they get dirty they are easy to hand wash, dry, and re-starch. Good as new.

Tell me...what's your favorite thing to work on for a few minutes here and a few minutes there?