Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

RECYCLE – RY

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I fell in love with this free project from Crafts n’ Things Magazine.  It’s not actually crochet as you make it with wool sweaters scrounged from the thrift store or your closet.  But, I’d have fun embellishing it with crochet appliques.

felted purse 092401

http://www.craftsnthings.com/Projects/Newsletter/2009_09/D_felted_purse.aspx?email=

RECYCLE  a pattern and turn it into something entirely different, like this coaster pattern:

http://www.kaleidesigns.com/crochet/patterns/archive/coas008.html

that was turned into this beautiful beret:

coaster beret 0909

http://sandyshook.blogspot.com/2009/09/going-around-again.html

Imagine the ingenuity and artistic eye that looked at that coaster and saw a beret.  I’m quite impressed.  Great yarn choice too.  Sandy gives the whole story of the process on her blog.

I like the idea of using doily patterns to create larger items.  It’s not much of a stretch to make a larger doily with perle cotton instead of bedspread weight and end up with a runner or place mat.  But, there are books out there (Amazing Lace is one of my favorites) that use doily patterns for everything from shawls to rugs to afghans.  Try your hand at that with a pattern you have in your stash and see what you come up with.  Maybe a pretty bedspread is hiding in a doily book!

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – Pottery Travel Mug Template Set (3 Pieces)

There’s something so satisfying about a handmade travel mug. It’s practical, stylish, and makes your daily coffee or tea ritual feel that little bit more special. With this set of 3 pottery travel mug templates, you can create your own ceramic mugs that not only look professional but also make thoughtful, personal gifts.

What’s Included

This set comes with three different templates for slab-building your own travel mugs. Each template has slightly different proportions, giving you variety in size and style. That way you can experiment until you find the perfect fit for your hand—or make a matching set for family and friends.

Why These Templates Are Worth It

  • Reusable & Reliable: Print and trace them as many times as you want.

  • Practical Design: The angled opening and lid slot make them comfortable and functional.

  • Perfect for Beginners: Templates take the guesswork out of hand-building.

  • Gift-Worthy: A handmade travel mug is a unique, eco-friendly present that anyone would appreciate.

Inspiration for Makers

  • Try a speckled clay body with a matte glaze for a modern, minimalist vibe.

  • Add underglaze designs or decals for a personalized look.

  • Make a full set of mugs in coordinating colors—perfect for a couple or family gift.

  • Pair your finished mugs with a bag of specialty coffee or tea for a beautiful handmade gift set.

Why You’ll Love It

Handmade pottery mugs have a warmth and character that no store-bought cup can compete with. Using these templates makes the process approachable, while still leaving plenty of room for your creativity to shine. And honestly? Everyone I know could use a good travel mug—so why not make one that feels personal and one-of-a-kind?

You can grab the set here: Travel Mugs Set Templates (3 Pieces) on Etsy.

This post is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I share clay tools and templates that make creating both functional and decorative pottery easier and more fun. And if you’re looking for a project that balances everyday use with handmade charm, these travel mugs might be your next go-to.