These simple, modern light shades are a great way to start out working with wood if you've never tried it. They require no power tools or specialized equipment and can be made in an afternoon or two.
Jump rings are those little loops of metal that hold jewelry together. There are hundreds of them in the woven chain collar project, and at least a few in most jewelry projects. Opening and closing them the right way will make your project work easier and it will keep your jump rings stronger. The more you bend metal the weaker it gets, so this technique maximizes how open the jumpring is (making it easier to loop through other things) while minimizing how much you have to bend it. It's also the easiest way to get it closed neatly.
Bring the needle up at A, down at B; up at C, down at D. The stiches on the back will be twice as long as those on the front. Either send the needle through in the same hole as the last stich or leave just a tiny gap between the stitches. Back stitch is a great way to hold two pieces of fabric together because it's much less likely to gather and bunch than running stitch and it's very secure. It's also a great stitch to use for outlining in embroidery.
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This lace pattern is a series of wave like curves with eyelet rows between and it's knit on the bias. It's a nice pattern for someone with a moderate level of experience and makes a fantastic warmer weather scarf.
Running stitch is the most basic of stitches - up at A, down at B; up at C, down at D. It can look the same on both sides of the work or you can vary the stitch lenghts, but be careful not to pull too tightly as some fabrics will bunch or gather if you do. Use it for basting, temporary stitches and as a decorative stitch.
Small purses are great for going out dancing or on dates. This is a project to make an oh-so-soft fur handbag that is pretty and useful.
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Blanket stitch is useful in working with furs and faux furs. It is a traditional finish for the edges of blankets and tablecloths, especially for medium to heavy weight low- or non-raveling fabrics like fleece and wool. It can also be used as an embroidery stitch, particularly when you want to achieve a vintage effect.
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