Where I live

I was beginning to think as I reflected on the veggies we planted today about how my location is a bit of a mystery to the reader! Now, normally I would love to keep that part of me hidden. But, in the scheme of the coming year, I wanted to mention where I live.

Nestled in the valleys of the Great Smoky Mountain is a little town most people just drive through to get to a tourist spot. Each little home are individuals who more than likely had ancestors that grew up, thrived, and died here.  Here...well that is in Cosby, TN.

This beautiful area is home to some of the most diverse plant life (causing major allergies) and also where I call home. After 8 years living a more nomadic life with my sailor of a husband, we settled back down in the place I have always called home. Each morning we wake to see mountains in the distance. Animals weave in and out of the National park. Deer hop across the road. And we live in a more tranquil environment with beauty abounding.

This past winter was a bit more bitter and brutal than it has been in a while, but I am sure happy that I can get out and try to grow more. We usually do not get out to enjoy this amazing view due to tourists and traffic; however, we sometimes grab a creamsicle and head up on the Foothills Parkway to take in the breathtaking views!

Have you been to East TN?

Sarah

Re-Release: Ball Gown for Barbie

Like previously mentioned, the two new patterns came from a decision to re-release and update my patterns. Want to see the pictures of the Ball Gown?

The newest pattern is available at all my stores!

What do you think? Aren't they just cute?!?

Sarah

New Patterns: Barbie Mini Ball Gown and Tea Length Ball Gown

For the last two days, my fingers have been crocheting like crazy. I have this insane notion that I need to revise and re-release my old patterns in the new format with new photos. This requires me to re-crochet the items to re-photograph. What was my first pattern choice for this, you ask?

Well, it was the Barbie Ball Gown. It was a floor length dress with alternating colors every two rows.

............................

Yeah, that is a lot of work! (rolls eyes)

I am not sure how I decided to make every two rows another color on a dress that had many stitches and went to the floor, even if it was just for Barbie.

So, for two days I have been selecting colors of yarn that I felt would photograph well. I stayed up later and began working first thing in the morning. With sore hands and wrists, I want to show you the newest patterns in my pattern stores and Etsy.

Barbie Tea Length Ball Gown

(armholes and halter)

Barbie Mini Ball Gown

(armholes and halter)

These two patterns are modifications to a previous pattern as mentioned but include two finishes: armholes and halter. I personally began falling in love with the way this dress falls and the halter option! If you are interested in purchasing, you can find it at Ravelry, Craftsy, and Etsy.

Have a wonderful day!

Sarah

Share It Saturday: Announcing New Free Pattern

A new event has popped up on my blog: Share it Saturday. I plan on sharing some of the newest things each week and can be anything from a pattern of mine to a new item found somewhere else. Please comment and share with me! I would love to see something you have been working on.

First week of Share it is a new free pattern here at Dande Creations!

Another free pattern from my Spring Barbie Collection. You can find it at any of my stores except Etsy; however, it is also available here on my blog. Want to see what it is?

Barbie Hand Bag

This cute little pattern will help you bust your scraps and provide entertainment for your little one and a new accessory for Barbie!

You can find it here.

I would love to see the finished item if you make it!

Sarah

The Essence of What I do

There was something weighing on my mind last night and the last few months. Something large that seems to be pushing at my soul. It's about my life, my passions, and about my business. I have struggled like many other small business owners in this economy. I have struggled with other crocheters undercutting my prices or offering the same items. For months, the struggles I faced trying to build up a reputation as a good designer and as a good seller seemed to bring me down further instead of uplift me. The fear of not succeeding weighed me perhaps the most.

What if I spent all this money and no one buys?

What if I upgrade this and redo that with no interest?

What if my customers have no interest in my patterns or items?

As months went by, those stones in my basket became heavier and heavier to bare. I continued to doubt myself. I changed this thing and that thing to increase business. I offered deal after deal with not one bite.

Through all that, I continued to see a quote about how long it really took to build a business and a brand. How many hours, heartaches, struggles, changes, and frustrations it took to build a worth while business....

Last night, it dawned on me.

I do not crochet, craft, or write because of other people. I do not sell items. I do not sell my time, my materials, or even a bunch of yarn knots made with a metal hook. I make and sell memories. I make and sell a connection between two people that will last a lifetime. I make and sell heirloom ornaments and dolls...that will withstand more than a few weeks of play at Christmas time. I make and sell that smile exchanged between two people....and the hug...and the heartfelt gratitude.

Most handmade sellers do the same. When you factor in the fees, the listing amounts, the time, energy, material costs...even the gas to get the materials, some of us barely break even trying to keep up with trends and the "best" price.

Well, no more! I want to maintain the very essence of why I do what I do - the memories, the hugs, the laughter, the smiles, the connection, and the heirloom that touches more than one generation.

So thank you, for sharing that with me. It means more than you know!

With lots of love,

Sarah

Announcing: New Free Pattern

Would you like to crochet a cute little Easter basket and eggs to go in your little girl's basket this year? Well, I have developed the pattern. And, I am making it free for all my viewers and fans. Here's a quick look at the pattern:

You can find the pattern by click here.

It is also available in my Craftsy and Ravelry stores!

Please feel free to contact me if you have any issues or comment.

Enjoy!

Sarah

INTRODUCING: Barbie Sweater Dress

Today I am introducing one of my Spring Barbie Collection patterns. It will be available to purchase in all shops by the end of the day.

Barbie Sweater Dress

The inspiration of this pattern came from a pair of fingerless mittens I saw with a ribbing. It reminded me of the bottom cuff of a sweater! So, I developed the pattern to fit Barbie.

Want to see the pictures? Of course you do!

Look how cute! This cute dress will be available for purchase in my Etsy store soon. I have one available now; however, I do accept custom orders.

Looking forward to releasing new patterns,

Sarah