my next project.

This is the Roaring Rose headband from Anthropologie, which I discovered recently in the winter catalog. I was super excited when I got it and spent a good fifteen minutes looking at the pictures (and the prices). Since I have misplaced my entire collection of hats and gloves somehow in the move to Tyler's house, I am on a mission to make a few hats before it gets too cold and I get stuck with outside recess duty:( 

Anyhow, this is super simple to knit, if you are a knitter that is:) 

The ribbed top and bottom are a K2P2 combination. The middle section of the headband is stockinette stitch. This can all be done on double pointed or circular needles (or regular needles if you want a seam up the back). 

If you don't want to embark on the task of knitting all of the separate flowers, it would be equally as unique to simply pin a flower on it. I have a feeling I will be knitting the flowers....but thats just me:) 

I can't wait to see how this turns out! Hopefully it won't take too long and I'll be able to post a photo! 

have you seen...

 

this ATC holder? 7Gypsies also makes photo carousels.... both of which are great ways to share photos or create "moveable scrapbooks" as gifts for loved ones! 

I really think this is neat way to display ATC cards.... (ATC stands for Artist Trading Cards). ATCs are simply mini cards (around 2x3) that display a work of art, photograph, or similar type of scrapbooking or journaling. I just received mine in the mail and am very excited to start displaying my own ATCs. 

I also picked up two of the larger photo carousels, which hold 4x6 photos or index cards (can be purchased at TwoPeas). There are SO MANY uses for these! (see Ali Edward's blog for more fun ideas! She has even started her own class you can sign up for to help walk you through the "spinner making process"!) These photo carousel projects have become very popular lately... there are plenty of ideas out there on how to put one together. I think they are an excellent way of displaying photographs, rather than keeping them closed in a scrapbook or album. Something like this can be set upon a coffee table, end table, or other shelf for people to peruse. And its super easy to add to also! I am planning on using at least one of them as a gift, using the theme of "Family" and having each member of our family contribute a special note, etc. There are special pockets you can purchase that work with these also, along with photo protectors, and other fun things to help create a "moveable scrapbook"! 

This is just one of the many handmade holiday gifts I am beginning to work on! I am planning on using my free time (since my hours were cut at work) to get this all finished. Luckily, being crafty is what I love doing most! Just wanted to share the ideas if anyone was looking for something unique to give a mom, grandma, or friend for Christmas!