Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

TEMPTING ADS

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I purchased the latest two issues of Interweave Crochet Magazine at my LYS last night.  I just love this magazine.  There were some ads that were so appealing looking that I decided to visit the websites to see exactly what they had to offer crocheters.  Here’s what I found:

This beauty if from purlbee.com, but most of their goodies seem to be knitted (boo hoo):

Joelle's Giant Granny Square

Joelle's Giant Granny Square

Add this site to your faves for buttons. It takes you to two button manufacturers (they also have yarn and hooks). This set of irresistable hearts is from buttonmad.com:

buttonmad.com via accessoriesunlimitedinc.com

buttonmad.com via accessoriesunlimitedinc.com

Hard to hold onto the one’s credit card with all these scrumptious goodies available at the touch of a key.

Elann.com offers many wonderful yarns and some free patterns (among other things).  This ethereal little shawl is one of their free crochet patterns:

elann.com superplum capelet free pattern

elann.com superplum capelet free pattern

I never expected to find information like this through an ad in a magazine, but if you’ve ever thought of yourself as a potential crochet designer, you gotta check out this extensive article at www.crochetasylum.com:
http://crochetasylum.com/cart/page.html?chapter=0&id=10

Doesn’t hurt that they also sell, among lots of crochet ‘hardware’, these appealing hook holders – each one is unique:

http://crochetasylum.com/cart/felted-wool-hook-rollup-custom-no-two-alike-p-23.html

http://crochetasylum.com/cart/felted-wool-hook-rollup-custom-no-two-alike-p-23.html

Finally – for today – I’ll leave you with this sample of a Universal Yarns product. I had this stuff in my hands last night at the LYS. It’s luscious stuff. If I’d been able to see it swatched, I’d have bought several balls. I wasn’t familiar with Universal Yarns until yesterday! Glad this ad took me to their site so I’ll know what to look for at the LYS next time.

Universal Yarns Classic Worsted Impressions - Color 'Camouflage'
Universal Yarns Classic Worsted Impressions – Color ‘Camouflage’  www.universalyarns.com

I’ll have more Tempting Ads details soon.

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – Moth Pottery Template for Slab Building

Sometimes clay tools feel more like magic than equipment, and this Moth Pottery Template definitely falls into that category. One moment you’re working with a flat slab, and the next you’re holding a detailed, sculptural moth that looks like it could flutter right off your table.

Why This Template Caught My Eye

This design stands out because it combines structure with artistry. The template gives you the clean, symmetrical base of the moth form, but once you have that shape cut, the real fun begins—adding textures, underglazes, or even metallic accents to bring the wings to life.

It’s ideal for slab-builders who want to go beyond mugs and bowls and dive into more decorative or sculptural projects.

What Makes It Special

  • Unique Subject: How often do you see a pottery moth? It’s an instant conversation starter.

  • Sculptural Yet Simple: The template does the tricky work, leaving you free to decorate.

  • Wall Art or Table Décor: Finished moths look stunning hung on a wall, framed, or displayed on a shelf.

  • Room for Creativity: Paint with bright colors, earthy neutrals, or even metallics for different vibes.

Ideas for Makers

  • Use glossy glazes with shimmering metallic accents for a celestial-style moth.

  • Keep it natural and muted for a woodland-inspired look.

  • Make a series of moths in different colors and sizes for a gallery wall effect.

  • Turn smaller versions into pendants or ornaments.

Why Makers Will Love It

Templates like this are inspiring because they bridge the gap between functional pottery and decorative art. It’s not just about making something useful—it’s about making something memorable. And let’s be honest, it’s the kind of piece guests will immediately comment on when they spot it in your home.

You can grab it here: Moth Pottery Template for Slab Building on Etsy.

This spotlight is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I highlight clay templates and tools that push creativity beyond the basics. If you’re ready for a project that feels both bold and whimsical, this moth template will absolutely deliver.

Crochet Pattern – Adorable Fluttering Moth Sprite Doll [Crochet]

DIY Moth Embroidery Pattern And Kit [Needle Work]