I love clothesline rope!!

I ran across a picture on buckalooview's Instagram of a nifty basket made from clothesline rope. This type of basketmaking has been around forever but I always thought that was a lot of work for a basket. I couldn't get it off my mind so I picked up a 100 foot, $3.44 package of clothesline rope from WalMart and became instantly addicted to the possibilities.

There are plenty of tutorials available online. Basically, you start in the middle and keep zig-zagging around until it is the size you need. It tends to start the bowl shape on it's own. I had to concentrate on trying not to pull too tightly as I stitched until I got the flat bottom finished. I controlled the shaping by pulling the cord slightly as I stitched.

When you get to the end, you have to decide how to finish off and tidy up the end of the cord. Just use your imagination!!





I had about 4 yards left after making my first 3 bowls. I couldn't stand to let it go to waste so I made a couple of coasters. I gave them a little steam press so that they are nice and flat.

I'd like to try dyeing my next batch of baskets. I see another trip to WalMart in the near future!

Winter Storm 2016 Knitting

Nothing like a foot of snow to strand you at home and get you in the mood for knitting! Winter Storm 2016 allowed me to slow down and do a little guilt free knitting. I had purchased a few skeins of Downton Abbey yarn recently, not because I needed it, but because I love the show!

I decided on the Hermione Hat pattern for my daughter in a color she has not worn before but I have always encouraged her to wear. A day and a half later and here she is.

Ravelry link

My second Winter Storm 2016 project was to finish a pullover sweater for my grandson which I started last October. The pattern is A Simple Baby Pullover and the yarn is Vanna's Choice from Michael's Crafts.

Ravelry link

Now on to Winter Storm project #3 which will be fingerless mitts to match my daughter's hat!