post-holiday projects?

I love happy chaos and productivity of the holiday build up. But I also love the post-holiday sloth. After a few days of doing absolutely nothing but eating and drinking and eating more and padding around in my slippers, I like to have a slow, low-intensity project that I might work on around the fire.

STC Craft offered a lovely roundup of projects with free instructions from their beautiful crop of books this year. I didn't get to any of them before Christmas, but I just might try the one from One More Skein by Leigh Radford (and re-learn how to knit...yet again!). I can’t get enough of these slouchy-graceful cowls.

a cool thing I forgot, and a giveaway

Number one, I failed to mention that Marichelle from Heart Handmade featured a new project of mine right over here. Go check it out and while you’re there, linger on her beautiful and inspiring site. She has a fantastic eye and is a big supporter of small, indie craft designers.

Also, don’t miss the chance to win an Alabama Chanin original. Natalie Chanin is the designer and creator of the Alabama Chanin line and Alabama Stitch Book. HBO recently commissioned her to design a special collection of hand stitched, embellished tee shirts related to their shows.

Well, STC Craft/Melanie Falick Books are giving away one shirt, along with an STC book of the winner’s choosing. All the information you need to enter is right here. I’ll say one more thing about Natalie’s work, and then you should hustle on over to try and win. I had the opportunity to meet Natalie at a trunk show last fall. I thought I loved her work from seeing pictures of it, but it’s nothing like seeing her work in person. Her warmth and belief in what she does infuses each garment so the texture and softness and design almost hum.

If you ever have a chance to see her work in person, get there. You won’t be disappointed.