Saturday 19 April 2014

Hooking Mad!

It's been a week since I first picked up a crochet hook and now I can't put it down. 

I started small with some rows and started to try a little flower which surprisingly turned out very well! I found the YouTube tutorial soooo easy! I did have to start again twice as I kept getting a tad confused at the beginning but after it clicked, that was it! I was well and truly hooked and managed to make my first flower! 


This is the video I used to make it on YouTube. 

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=dQeq7Hci_qU 

I then posted on the 'Sewfie Crochet Talk' group page on Facebook and shared my little flower and received so much lovely support and encouragement! I mentioned that I really wanted to try doing a granny square and I was told to just go and do it. 

So after watching another couple of YouTube videos, none of which I found entirely helpful on their own, I used two or three to get a general understanding of the pattern, I completed my first granny square in under 2 hours and here it is! 


Now a week later I have decided my first simple project should be a baby blanket for my little Princess due in July and now have this little stack going on! 


And now this morning, I have been awake an hour and already half way through another square which will be number 8! 

It is truly addictive! I find myself waking up early to pick up my hook and yarn to make even more squares! And the best thing about all this that makes it much more satisfying? 

My nana would be proud of me!!!! 

Don't forget to like my page on Facebook for more updates :) Facebook.com/penelopesvintageworld 





Sunday 13 April 2014

New addiction: probably doing it wrong....

I've got a new addiction. CROCHET! 

Oh my god it's soooo addictive! And so adaptable! 

I did a rough practice 'thing' just messing about and was doing it until midnight last night, after all my housework and a bit of spring cleaning (pregnancy dictates I must space it out a bit) 

Look what I created. It's not very neat mind. 


I think my favourite bit about it is the frilly edge, it's so girly! 

This is what it looked like halfway through. 

At this stage it was really flat and I was thinking if making a large doily for my blue wooden garden table as the colour clash would have been amazing but then, for some reason, it started going up at the sides. (Must find out why) 


This was right at the beginning yesterday morning when I had not long started. 

Next project is a headband (that can be tied) and then after that I really want to make myself a belt that I can tie above my bump to pull in some of my looser, less flattering items of clothing. 

I might try a slightly different yarn material for the belt. Something that won't bobble like wool. 

And I think something a bit stretchy for the headband too! 

Does anyone know of any pages on Facebook or any websites and recommend some fab yarn for my next couple of projects? I'd love to share some love in my blog about my next projects about some lovely products. 

I tried a headband this morning when I woke up whilst the other half was still snoozing and just used DK wool which was actually recommended in the pattern. 


It's a bit of a messy look, I need to focus more I think :/ but I do love crochet, It's so relaxing. 

Might spend a few hours doing some knitting now. Were having a lazy Sunday today so I can just potter around. 

I've had a look at some patterns for some other items but it need to remember to start small for now. I need to smarten up the basics first! Lots of you tube research. 

Note: I got the pattern for the headband from http://pinterest.com/pin/425871708485863677/ 

Stay tuned for more crochet updates coming soon! 

If you have anything else you'd like to have discussed please email me at penelopesvintageworld@gmail.com 

Alternatively you can message me at my Facebook page Facebook.com/penelopesvintageworld 



Saturday 12 April 2014

New Trend Alert: Kitsch Poodles!!

Poodles everywhere is a seriously kitsch 59's trend that's making a serious come back. 

You can get them anywhere! You can have them everywhere! Take a look at all the lovely goodies I found on Etsy. Squeeeeee!!! 

Poodles 

How stunning would this poodle family Planter look on your patio? Filled with some beautiful blue flowers maybe? 



http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/103606795/vintage-set-of-3-white-ceramic-poodles?ref=sr_gallery_1&ga_search_query=poodle+kitsch&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery

I've just redecorated my bedroom in the most gorgeous pink and this Switch plate would look amazing! But I might have to wait for a while as my other half is still getting over the shock of the pink walls. Tee hee. 

 

http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/16339277/sassy-poodle-kitsch-1950s-vintage?ref=sr_gallery_2&ga_search_query=poodle+kitsch&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery

This Lamp is just sooooooooo kitsch! Look at the attitude on the poodles face too! Isn't she just wonderful? 



http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/185256695/amazing-mid-century-kitsch-spaghetti?ref=sr_gallery_10&ga_search_query=poodle+kitsch&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery

This fabric poodle Necklace is so bright and beautiful (i keep singing the hymn in my head when I see this!) if you want to go seriously 50's, wear with a buttoned up cardigan and full skirt! 



http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/184385635/pink-poodle-fabric-necklace-retro?ref=sr_gallery_15&ga_search_query=poodle+kitsch&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery

This Figurine would be the perfect addition to any self respecting vintage lovers work desk! Just looking at her face will inspire you to keep going despite how hard it may get. 



http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/169915995/vintage-napco-yellow-and-white-ceramic?ref=sr_gallery_29&ga_search_query=poodle+kitsch&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery


I adore these Hair slides! Whether you buy them to wear yourself or have a little girl who loves gorgeous and cute hair accessories, these are sure to be a crowd pleaser. 



http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/172679980/kitsch-vintage-rockabilly-inspired?ref=sr_gallery_71&ga_search_query=poodle+kitsch&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery

Gah! I need to buy me some of these fab Earrings! They also do them in black for those who aren't keen on flashing too much pink but I have found that pink and poodles seem to go hand in hand so throw your reservations away and go for pink! 



http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/151402505/pink-poodle-earrings-bubblegum-pink-cute?ref=sr_gallery_74&ga_search_query=poodle+kitsch&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery


This skirt just encapsulates the entire 50's trend of poodles perfectly! I can see this skirt being worn in Grease with ankle socks! 😍



http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/59894372/ladies-50s-poodle-skirt-teal-with-black?ref=sr_gallery_1&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=poodle+skirt&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_ship_to=GB&ga_search_type=all

I love this style of soft Baby shoes and the poodles just make these shoes just that little bit more cute. Baby moccasins are so dreamy!  



http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/165513103/robeez-style-pink-poodle-baby-shoes-crib?ref=sr_gallery_1&ga_search_query=poodle+baby&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=GB&ga_search_type=all


Look at this baby Planter! If you know someone that is expecting and loves vintage kitsch, this will be the perfect individual gift and might end up with you being god mother! Look how cute her face is! 



http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/185695499/vintage-pink-and-blue-baby-planter-with?ref=sr_gallery_31&ga_search_query=poodle+baby&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=GB&ga_search_type=all

So do you already have some poodle kitsch in your life? If you do pop over to the Facebook page to share at Facebook.com/penelopesvintageworld or email me details to add on an upcoming post at penelopesvintagewares@gmail.com 

Don't forget to give my Facebook page a like and if there is any vintage research you'd like me to do for you, let me know. 

Until tomorrow my lovelies! 

Xxxxx


Friday 11 April 2014

My favourite maternity finds!



Sometimes when your shape is changing so much, it is so difficult to find a dress to feel utterly dreamy in. 

I think we should all embrace our beautiful bumps and go on the hunt for some of the most adorable spring dresses specially designed to accommodate our wonderful curves. 

Here is a few of my favourites. 



ASOS ❤️ http://m.asos.com/mt/www.asos.com/Asos-Maternity/Asos-Maternity-Skater-Dress-With-Mesh-And-Lace-Panel/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3892947&cid=8343&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=50&sort=-1&clr=Cream


Etsy ❤️ https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/177728550/maternity-gown-photo-prop-stretch-soft?



Nautical beauty from notonthehighstreet.com ❤️ http://www.notonthehighstreet.com/bumpaliciousmaternity/product/nautical-striped-maternity-dress





This little gem is in the SALE at mamas and papas! ❤️ 
https://m.mamasandpapas.com/products.php?category=maternity-clothes/shop-by-product/dresses-skirts-tunics#product-S0011251


Jojo maman bebe. Perfect for a wedding! ❤️ http://www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk/sp+cream-rose-print-maternity-summer-dress-in-maternity-dresses+b4908

So what's your excuse? Don't sit indoors, sulking in your joggers! Get outside and embrace the spring season in some utter beauties!!!! 

Email me at penelopesvintageworld@gmail.com for my regular blog updates and to ask me any questions relating to any of my posts 

Lots of love. Xxxxxx



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Email me at penelopesvintageworld@gmail.com for my regular blog updates and to ask me any questions relating to any of my posts xxxxxxx

Thursday 10 April 2014

Feeling 'normal' whilst heavily pregnant



Us bumpy ladies are always struggling to feel a little bit normal when carrying around an extra stone or 2 of baby. 

The waddle kicks in, the bigger boobs and tummy make you feel off balance and you're tired and fed up! 

But there are small things you can do to help yourself try and feel a little less like giving up on showering altogether and just throwing on some joggers...

1/ Always wear lip gloss and mascara. Even if you don't have time to do your vintage cats eye's eye liner, a quick flick of mascara and your favourite lip gloss will always be an instant pick me up. 

2/ Ensure you stay well hydrated and are eating lots of fruit and veggies. The more water you drink, the better your skin will look. And the more fruit and veg you eat the healthier you will feel and you'll know ghat you're getting some goodness in for your little bubba. 

3/ try wearing your pre-maternity clothes for as long as possible. It's amazing how long your long line tops, stretchy waistband leggings, trousers and skirts and all your fabulous dresses that cinch you in right under your bust. I am 23 weeks and still fit in a lot of my pre-maternity clothes! 

4/ Try and get early nights during the weeks when still working, your body will thank you in the morning and your boss will thank you when you're not flagging by lunchtime! If you want to get stuff done then try spread them out during the weeks and set little goals of things to do. 

5/ Every morning and night remember to pamper yourself a little by doing your Cleanse, Tone and Moisturise routine. Also, twice daily, moisturise that precious bump of yours!!! 

6/ Finally, remember to not be so hard on yourself by setting goals that are unrealistic. You're pregnant and carrying the most precious cargo ever. If there is something that you can't do, then don't do it. There is so much you still can do within healthy limits. 

I hope you get some happy moments and reduced miserable episodes from my handy tips today. 

If you have anything else you'd like to have addressed please email me at penelopesvintageworld@gmail.com 

Alternatively you can message me at my Facebook page Facebook.com/penelopesvintageworld 


Me in non-maternity clothes at 22 weeks! :)