Crafting: Crochet Slouchy Hat

Awhile back I had found the best slouchy hat ever. It was white and crocheted with very soft wool. On one of the sides it had two rhinestones - right in the front. I wore it ALL the time! It was so pretty! Unfortunately, I lost this hat awhile back.

I think I have a photo of it still...

Ah, here it is. :)

One of my friends recently told me that I need to find another hat like this. Well, I decided to search for the perfect slouchy hat crochet pattern. I ended up going with this pattern. With some help from a experienced crocheter to learn how to read these directions better (and make sure I was starting my hat out correctly!) I was able to finish this hat in a couple days.

The pattern allows for this hat to be made even "slouchier" if you'd like. I think I may try that in the future. :)

Fellow crocheters, what's a favorite pattern of yours that you've stumbled across recently?

Crochet Mug Cozies

Learning to crochet has been one of the best things I've ever done. Crocheting keeps my hands busy, so I can sit still and watch a movie without getting up. It also helps me to relax by focusing most of my concentration onto one task. I absolutely love how freeing that feeling is. Seems a little weird, I know. ;)

Through some inspiration on pinterest, I crocheted my very first mug cozy. It can be used for coffee, tea, really about any hot beverage in a coffee mug or to-go container.

I sewed the letters on the piece of canvas with a needle and thread and then attached it to the cozy. I had to re-do the letters a couple of times. I never knew how hard it was to make letters with a needle and thread! I definitely need A LOT more practice!

Want a mug cozy? Want one as a gift to give someone? Email me.

Or if you want the pattern, you can e-mail me as well and I will e-mail it over. I made it up myself and it's fairly simple! Great for beginners like me!

What sorts of things have you seen on pinterest that you'd like to replicate or modify?

Thrifting: Spring Work Outfit for under $10

Had an urge to step into The Salvation Army on 28th street one morning and it ended up being a good idea. I found a black tweed dress for $4.99. To make matters even more exciting, the brand is Banana Republic. Such a great find! After finding the dress, I decided to take my chance and the shoe section. I usually don't find shoes that fit - since I'm a size 9 or 10. But, finding the dress was making me feel lucky. I've needed a pair of good winter, dress boots for awhile. The boots I've been wearing have holes in the soles! To my surprise, there was a perfect pair of black lace-up boots. 

I had hit a few dry spells when walking into some Goodwills lately, but it just goes to show you that patience can bring you great rewards!

What was one of your best thrifting finds?