Tutorial Tuesday: Crochet Bow Headband / Ear Warmer

Searching through various blogs for cowl patterns a couple of weeks ago I stumbled on this cute headband. I decided to try my hand at one with the leftovers from the navy cowl I just made (you might have seen the pictures on Instagram). I think that this will be a great gift for one of my sisters - I won't say which (I have three).

I found the free pattern and tutorial on People Webs blog, right here.

Photo from peoplewebs.blogspot.com

She includes detailed instructions and step-by-step photos for you, which I think is great!

This is another great project for a beginner because it is all single crochet! This makes it a nice relaxing project too because it doesn't require a ton of concentration or counting... I have been making mine while I ride the bus.

This could also be done in a knit version using either garter or seed stitch...

I am going about mine a little bit differently - rather than working the length of the piece, I am working the width. When I make a second one I will work the length instead, and then let you know what I think of the two methods... My reason for working the opposite way is that I am not sure about the suggested length and want to make sure that it will be the right size. But, like I said, we will see how it turns out.

If you don't want to make your own, she does sell them on her Etsy shop!

Be sure to check out her blog and shop - she has a ton of great stuff!

Supporting Small Businesses

I love Etsy and I love what it does for people with small businesses. There are so many talented and artistic people out there that just blow my mind and inspire me. I know some Etsy sellers personally, and others I know through social media (mostly Instagram), and I love to see the joy that making things and sharing them with others brings to them.

With so many things mass produced overseas, and so many people at home suffering from a slow economic recovery, small shops, wether local or on the internet, provide a great way to contribute to economic growth, art, community, and an appreciation for well made goods. It's also pretty much guaranteed that the person you are giving to won't already have that item.

So, when you don't know what to give this year, check out a few blogs, scan through a few Esty Treasuries, go down to that vintage boutique or antique store you've been wanting to check out, or perhaps a local bazaar, and support small businesses and artisan goods.

And if you have a shop, post a link in the comments below. I would love to check it out!

All the best,

Stephanie
MWLP