I'm "Setting the Stage"

Hi Loves,

Its always a pleasure doing one of Petra Breakstone's KAL (knit-a-longs), this time its for her "Setting the stage" shawl.  The KAL started September 6th, and so did my shawl, its really a quick knit, I was able to complete mine in 2 days.  I would say a few hours of doing just this shawl, it would be completed in less than a day, its that simple.

I used one full skein and 3/4 of another of #ICEYARNS Natural Cotton  (the small bit is what is left from the skein on the left)

 
In less than 10 mins I had 44 sts on my needle.

48 sts away from my lace border

Completed

Just look at that lace work.

I was finished with my shawl, and with a whole month to basically wait I decided to start another one.  This time using Knitcrate's Knitologie Sheen in the colourway Titmouse.

This one took longer  (7 days) as I was doing 4 other projects at the same time. I was really pleased with the outcome, I also did more of the lace bit. It turns out wonderfully made, but don't take my words for it.  Take and look and let me know what your thoughts are.

Blocking

close up on the lace work.

Buffy Wuffy

Lovies,


In my quest to complete 3 of Little Owls Hut's (LOH) designs to submit to be able to become one of their testers, I was sent another link to their Buffy CAL (Crochet-A-Long). There will also be a poll at the end of the month and a prize to be won.

My pup was started on the 15th of September 2019, phase one which comprised of the head and ears was completed in 2 hrs.

ok, now I can go off to bed.

On my way to work in the taxi the following morning, I completed my pup's hands and feet, and couldn't wait until I reach home to continue.

Again on my commute to work the morning after, I completed the body,  sadly I did not take my stuffing along with me 😭😭😭😭😭😭.   Sighs, oh the 10 hrs wait until I can get to stuff and complete my doggy.

After 10 long hours, I was home, with stuffing in hand I got to work on finishing my buffy wuffy.  I decided to give him a little necktie, a red one.

Home at last and puppy all stuffed.

all done 

This cute little adventurer could not be tamed, so on a beautiful sunny morning, he decided to aim for the sky, spread his paw........................................
                                                                       and climb a sweetsop tree 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

wuff.... needs to go higher

I can see the ground.

This is so Awesome

ok, this view is very nice

can you see me... oooohhhh, I can see the world from here.

Little Miss Viking

Hi my lovies,

I received an email asking if I would like to test knit for Little Owls Hut (LOH).  Squealing with excitement, I hit reply but after reading the terms, I had to take a u-turn.  Bummer! Bummer! Bummer!

I went and search my catalog of their patterns and pics of my finished product as........ "I'm sure I have made a few of their designs before, haven't I, 🤔🤔🤔🤔??"

Guess I didn't, as no pictures were found, and the patterns I have in google drive I haven't made any of them.  What to do? Should I really let this opportunity pass me by?  Oooohhhh noooooo!!!!

So, I replied, letting them know that I'm interested but had no pictures currently.  I asked if I could make any 3 and then submit, to my surprise I was given the go ahead to do so.  They even sent me the link to take part in a CAL (Crochet-A-Long) for a doll in a monkey viking suit.  There will be a poll at the end of the month and a price to be won.

I started my doll September 08, 2019 and she was completed on September 13, 2019.  All parts were done and ready for attaching within 2 days, but was unable to because I didn't have some of the materials needed such as the wire (🙈 I didn't read through the pattern prior to starting).  It was my first time adding wire to my dolls and guess what???? I think I will be adding it to more.

So my loves, get ready to vote for meeeeeeeee 😁😁😁😁...

That pink lip and pearly white though... and those lashes 😍😍

    

She's got a tail

Blue hair I don't care😍

So until next time loves, accept oneself. Live the life you love and love the life you live.

Who am I?

Hi loves,

I know you all must be wondering, who is behind Khenzuri?  How did the name Khenzuri came to be?  This is how.

Hi, my name is Melissa Laidlaw, I am the proud founder of Khenzuri's Treasures also known as Khenzuri.  I've always desired to own my own business, before having kids it was to own a salon with a difference.  One with class and structure, one that will set appointments and keep them, one that has an open and closing time that actually means something.

I went to  The Heart College of Cosmetology to gain accreditation as a Cosmetologist.  Just as I completed my studies and was getting ready to start up, tragedy struck on September 4, 2008 with the death of the father of my then soon to be 2-year-old baby Khensani.  My baby was already attending school (that devastating event happened on her 2nd day of school) and with the breadwinner no longer in the picture, I had to put my dreams on hold and go out and seek employment.

I went on the interview on September 27, 2008 and started working October 10, 2008 (my birthday🎈 🎉 🎁 btw).  The years pass one, two, three and before you know it, I was there 8 years. My baby no longer a baby, and with the demand of ensuring she gets a good education and the bills it seemed my dream had slowly faded and had became only a mythical thought.

In 2011 I took up my needles and started crocheting again, researching new stitches and patterns.  I made mostly bags then, and on one of my many visits to my local yarn shop the owner asked "why don't you take your stuff to JBDC"..  I didn't know who they were, she gave me their info, but I didn't act on it initially.

January 4, 2016 I gave birth to my second child Zuri, and a few months after she turned a year old,  I was made redundant.  With time now on my side I contacted JBDC and made an appointment to showcase my talent. I took a wide variety of things that I've made, bags, doilies, pot holders, 2 swimwear, and a doll. It seemed nothing interested them but the doll. I was a bit disappointed as they were all lovely items, it was explained that they had others who were doing swimwear and bags, doilies would not be an hit as I wouldn't be compensated for them due to mass production.  They however loved the doll and asked that I think about producing them.

I went home do further research and decided on a entirely new design.  I took in the prototype for approval and was given the go ahead to start production, there was just one issue, I had to be registered which means I need a name right????

Think Melissa, think, what would a good name be, then eureka!!!! 💡💡💡.

(Khensani + Zuri - Sani = Khenzuri)

And just like that Khenzuri / Khenzuri's Treasures was born on July 03, 2017.

Founder/Owner Melissa Laidlaw.

Mis-takes or Mistakes???

Hi loves,


I recently received an email from "I like knitting" highlighting "10 Mistakes Every Knitter Should Avoid" and think I should share it with you all as well so you can avoid common knitting/crocheter mistakes. These are mistakes that can waste your time, frustrate you, and even destroy your projects

We don't want this, do we? 😭😭😭😭😭, No! No! No! .....

Don’t worry though, anyone can make these mistakes—but, more experienced knitters/crocheters have learned how to avoid these errors over time.

Mistake #1: Not getting enough yarn for your project.

When you do not purchase enough yarn required for a project, you run the risk of not getting another skein in the same dye lot which would result in your project looking messy and the colouring being off. There’s a chance the yarn might even be discontinued as well.  To avoid this mistake, ensure to always buy more than needed as that will save you from having either a messy, discoloured project or an unfinished one.

Here's a suggestion to ensure you always have enough for your project. 😉😉

Mistake #2: Not reading the pattern before you begin. 

Trust me I'm guilty of this one.  This can lead to all sorts of mistakes, including not enough yarn, incorrectly counting stitches, etc. Pay extra attention to any “special instructions” or “special stitches.” These will usually appear at the beginning of a pattern before the actual instructions begin.

 Mistake #3: Not knowing there’s a difference between U.S. and U.K. stitch names.

 The United States and the United Kingdom have different names for knitting stitches, and if you don’t know the differences, then your pattern will come out completely wrong!

eg: U.K. double crochet (dc) is the U.S. single crochet (sc).. 

Mistake #4: Losing track of your rows and stitches. 

To overcome this mistake ensure you have stitch counters and markers.  Using them will set you up for success, so you’ll never lose track of where you are in your pattern.  I also recommend ensuring you are not doing too many things while you knit, especially if you are doing special stitches that require your undivided attention.

Mistake #5: Using incorrect tension.

The tension that is either too loose or too tight will affect the outcome of the project. Stitches that are too tight will greatly affect the outcome of the project and could even make it nearly impossible to knit into those stitches in the next row. Make something too loose, and your sizing will be completely wrong.

Mistake #6: Not checking your gauge.

 Guilty, Guilty, Guilty... I'm 100% guilty, why do a gauge swatch when I could be a few rows in my project, right???... Wrong!!!  This is why you should... Gauge refers to the number of stitches and rows per inch that result from the yarn and needle size you’re using.  Not checking your gauge can result in your project not matching the specified pattern.  You could end with a project that's too small or too big.

Mistake #7: Washing wool projects. 

Putting wool projects through the washer and dryer is never a good idea. This I learned the
HARD way.

 (remember this lovely top? well I accidentally put it with some other knitted wears and it end up looking like a dog's chew toy 😭😭😭😭😭, a good thing I got 2, yes 2 wears out of it).

Not only is your project likely to shrink, but the chemicals found in most detergents will actually degrade the fibers in your project, ruining its lifespan.

RECOMMENDATION -  Hand washing with gentle soap or dry cleaning.

Mistake #8: Not taking breaks.

Knitting for hours on end without taking breaks to stretch your fingers and wrists will result in not only pain but also repetitive-use injuries. Be kind to yourself and take regular breaks in between long knitting sessions. Stretch and relax before getting back to your knitting project.

Secondly, you may end up making mistakes that cause you to have to redo an entire project.

Mistake #9: Not sewing in loose ends securely.

Weaving in loose ends after you finish a project is cumbersome but crucial. Not doing it correctly could result in your project falling apart the next time you wash it.

Mistake #10: Using the wrong yarn weight.

Using the wrong yarn for a project will drastically alter the end result of the project. If you are hoping your project comes out as the pattern intends, pick a yarn that’s the same weight as described in the pattern’s instructions.

I learned about mistake 10 when I was working on my I'm all aflutter top by @petrabreakstone.  It took me 3 tries to get it right.

Well loves, until next time. Stay true to one's self.

I'm a Rock Star

Hi Loves,


Here I was browsing Ice Yarn and I came across a yarn called Rock Star DK. I placed my order and waited patiently (a whole month through the post). It came at the perfect time as I was in the process of casting on for Petra Breakstone's Theodoras-shawl.

The morning my package arrived, I was right in the middle of doing my gauge swatch when I heard the postman. I grabbed my package, ripped it open, quickly cast on, and beamed with joy when I realized my gauge was what........ SPOT ON... this is like the first ever.😀😀😀😀😀

I was so happy, now I will match the designer's gauge for sure. I loved working with this yarn it doesn't fray, it glides off my needles effortlessly, and it gives a lovely finish. Don't take my word for it. Just look at my shawl.

a few repeats in.

looks like I'm making a replica of the female reproductive system 😕😕

So sorry it's dark, 

but I have close ups 😀😀😀

I finished my shawl with yarn to spare, what to do next????????????

I'M A ROCKSTAR...... TO BE CONTINUED.

It's not a Fairytail

Hi loves,

So I know I've been away for a loooooonnngggg time.  I am still working on becoming a household name for anything authentically handmade, whether crochet or knitted in my little Island home and by extension the global society.  This is not my typical post, but I think I should let you know some of the hidden truths about being an entrepreneur of handmade items.  I know I've been writing about my "successes" though small they may be now, it's not all glitz and glamour over here.

Imagine getting an order for something you have never made, so you are clueless about how much time, effort, and material are required to complete the order.  You also follow your customers' many customizations only to have the order left with you upon completion, because they don't think they should pay you what you deserve.  Here's another example, being asked many, many times to "make a hat for me no" to finally complete it and still have it sit in the completed pile for months. You look at that pile wondering why?🤔. There is also the issue of consignment work.  You work hard, give your items on consignment as you are utilizing all resources to get your name and work out there, and after months still no return because the markup is so high they don't fly off the shelves.

WHAT DO YOU DO??????????????

Well!!!

This is what I do...... Get up every day, and do what I love.  Outsiders see me going about thinking "She's cashing in" not knowing the real struggle to get paid for all my hard work, but yet I press on.

I've said this before family and friends can't sustain a business and I still stand by it.  Sometimes the persons who downgrade or think your time and efforts are not worth paying for, are the very people you think would have your back.  They would pay a stranger more to do a crappy job than they would pay you for a work of art.

With all that being said... I will continue to press on as when it all seems dim there's that glimmer of hope when you get a call or see a social media post from a stranger praising your talent.

Follow my journey...

twitter
facebook
Instagram

Are you in need of yarn I've got you covered as well.....

Yarn

Cozy Toes

Hi Loves,

Have you ever been so cold you think you're going to freeze, only to put a sock on and the temperature drops almost instantly?

If the answer is yes. Then these cuties are just what you need.  The idea came when a friend of mine complained about her feet always being cold.

I have made crochet booties numerous times but really wanted to knit this one.  I went to YouTube and browsed around to get the general construction.  I didn't want anything too complicated as these were just for lying in bed or moving around the house.

After watching a few I got my inspiration and set to work. Two hours or so later I have my very first pair.

🤔🤔 I know what you think. "That doesn't look like footwear".  But my friend they will be.

Can you believe it? That somewhat square piece became this masterpiece.

Yes, it did.  I had to jazz them up with a bit of colour.

These were done to fit a size 9-10 lady's feet.  They were just too cute to be for only adults, so I went back to the needles and did a pair for the tiny tots in our lives.

This is the finishing.

But here's where it all started from.

The Birth

Hi Loves,

I was asked to make a scarf, the customer was very specific in her colours and size...

"I need it to be black with yellow at the very edge, it should be 6" wide and 40 inches long".

Wow!!

I have tons of scarf patterns but as of late the urge to design my own has been getting stronger and stronger. So that's what I did.

I've designed pouches and bags, but never written anything down, even if I replicated it, who knew it was this hard putting your creation to paper?

It normally takes 7-9 months for a baby to be born, but my birth took only a few hours.  My very first written pattern

How it all went down!!!!!

I played around to ensure I got the width correct (6"), once that has been achieved then it's easy peasy, lemon squeezy.

I first thought of making a full seed stitch scarf but after a few rows in, honestly, boredom started to surface.  My lazy inner being started to complain

"This is taking too long". " blah, blah, blah"

Then came Mrs. Enthusiastic screaming in my ear... "HEY, Why not do a few rows of garter stitch". We 🖐🖐 high-five each other and just like that the pattern started taking shape.

Man, I just love my staff (me, myself, and I) hahaha...😜😜😜

I completed the scarf and it was an absolute beauty, but sadly I didn't get to photograph it.  Want to know why? Sure you do.

I have no pics as I did the finishing touches while in a taxi heading to make the delivery.

After making my delivery (she loved it btw), I came home and scribbled some more.  With no picture to post, I had to recreate my masterpiece and that's exactly what I did.  I started doing it in black but thought against it and went for a light green yarn I had in my stash.

The aim was to replicate, type, proofread, export to pdf, and post for sale on Ravelry by January 4th, 2019 (my baby's birthday). It didn't seem possible up to January 3rd but by 10:30 pm on the 4th, with a finished scarf, the pattern is written and pdf ready, I posted my very first pattern for sale (https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/garter-seedling-scarf).  2019 is off to a good start.

Now the waiting begins, will people like it? Will they purchase it? Either way, I was bubbling with pride, I finally wrote and posted a pattern.  There is no stopping me now.

The Masterpiece 

Without any fringe or tassel.

Crochet loop stitch finish.

Tassel end

Adding Tassels

Wrap your yarn around a book or piece of cardboard (or anything you desire).  Cut to the length you like and let's get started.

Insert hook

Loop the yarn over the hook and pull it through.

Take your loose end and pull through the opening.

Twist and pull through the opening once more.

Pull to tighten and form a knot, repeat until the entire edge is covered.

How to do the crochet loop stitch edging?

You can watch this video or search " crochet loop stitch" via YouTube and follow along.  This stitch is really easy once you get the hang of it.

Let me know what you think, if you purchase my pattern, please share your finished scarf.