Hooked

When I learned to crochet in February 2011 I never guessed how addicted I would become.  I find the repetitive motion of hooking stitch after stitch to be mind-numbingly relaxing.  I've decided to send my rainbow shawl to one of my friends, so I promise that the next thing I make will be for me.  I have crocheted dozens of projects over the past year, but I have only kept a couple items for myself.

 

This shawl is the first thing I ever made with "nice" yarn.  I suppose by nice I mean it's not 100% acrylic and not $2 per skein.  The yarn is Naturally Caron Spa, which is a bamboo and acrylic blend.  It is decadently soft and has a lovely sheen.  I also crocheted my necklace and beaded bracelet.

Dress, George, Walmart; shawl, handmade by me; shoes, Born, Younkers; shawl pin, gifted (thanks, Stephen); necklace, handmade by me; abalone pendant, farmer's market; abalone earrings, purchased in Cozumel; beaded bracelet, handmade by me.

Abalone is one of my favorite gems.  Is it a gem if it's shell?  I find the swirls of blue, green and purple truly enchanting.  Unfortunately it doesn't photograph very well.

Most days I take my photos and write my posts before work, but today I didn't get to it until the end of a long day.  I'm surprised by how well the outfit actually held up.