Appreciation

Cataloging My Home

by CZeitler

When it comes down to it I am a Librarian. Due to this I wanted to have something of an inventory of the periodicals, books, and materials that I have at my disposal. All too often I am searching for new inspiration and forget what I already have. My first step was to research what methods I can use to keep track of my items in a way that is still searchable and able to be organized. I started with Notion, then I discovered that I cannot opt out of allowing my data to be harvested by AI so I then cancelled that option. At present I was not able to find an inexpensive option that does not utilize AI so I decided to go with the old fashioned spreadsheet. I am currently using MacBooks so I have created mine on Numbers. Since I can use the sort function on separate columns I am able to add in a category that states what craft/category each item is for.

Since I know myself, and a huge spreadsheet with everything in it will be way too overwhelming, I have a separate spreadsheet for each type of item. One is periodicals (magazines), craft books, fiction books, stabilizers, quilt fabric, sewing patterns, etc. This is going to be a very long term project. I have decided that my magazines and books are not going to go onto my shelf without being either photographed or put into my spreadsheet. Before I had the spreadsheet started I was just photographing everything and I am going to have to add everything into my spreadsheet over time. Speaking of photography, I did take some photos using my cellphone mounted on my dashboard while I was driving home after the museum visit. I did do this safely by spamming the photo button while looking at the road. I am still unable to get good nightspots on my iPhone, however I was able to color correct a couple of these photos to get the blues and pinks a little closer to what they looked like while I was driving home. I have not taken the time to see if I can turn the inspiration into a tapestry, however that is part of the plan.

Until next time remember to Live Life a Little More Abstract!

Museum Visit

by CZeitler

The weavers guild I belong to decided to visit the Cleveland Museum of Art to speak with the textile conservator. We were so lucky to have a couple of hours to explore the museum and another couple of hours to learn from the conservator. The photo above is of a piece of art I was enraptured by in the museum, they did ask on their website that we not take pictures of the art so I found this on google.

It was amazing to learn about conservation, preservation, what you can do to keep textiles looking their best, as well as ways to create repairs that are virtually seamless. It was fascinating to see that cotton twill tape has velcro soft loops attached to itself and then the twill tape is sewn to the textile for hanging purposes. The stiffer, sticky, portion of the velcro is attached to where the item is to be displayed, either on a French cleat or some other form of hanging. This allows the textile to not be caught on the sticky portion of the velcro, while distributing the weight of the textile.

It was fascinating to see some of the conservation that they perform, as well as understanding how they need to balance the conservation with the time and energy they have to devote to that particular exhibition. I did learn quite a bit about how they display, store, and preserve textiles. One of the methods that fascinated me is the pressure mounting. This is where they use either an acrylic box or some art mounting boards like what you would find in framing photographs, as well as batting and a backing cloth to cushion and preserve the textile by having it pressed against the top and bottom pieces. This keeps it flat, prevents any shifting that can cause damage to the pieces, and prevents most handling which will keep it in the best shape possible.

For the backing cloth the conservator recommended either Rayon lens tissue or silk crepeline with muslin underneath to cushion it. Apparently three companies that also make the acrylic boxes are University Products, Small Court and Gemini Builds it. They use tyvek for storage and to cover the textiles to prevent damage from sun, dust, etc. They also use Hollytex labels with as much information as they have to ensure that the information is also preserved. They also use Cotton Bobbinette for repairs, they sew with curved surgical needles since they tend to be finer than sewing needles.

I was so happy to have the time with the conservator, as well as the amazing questions that my fellow weavers guild members asked. Since this museum is less than 3 hours away I plan to visit at least one or two time in the next two years since they have some amazing exhibitions coming up. The two major expenses are the gas (of course) and a $14 parking fee. I could purchase a membership, however that is $75 and for how often I plan on going I do not think it would be worth it.

I did make some progress on an alpaca and wool scarf I am currently weaving, as well as some progress on a secret project.

Until next time remember to live life a Little More Abstract!

Autumnal Delights

by CZeitler

I am not affiliated with, nor gaining any commission from, any of the shops and organizations below. This is just a post where I am sharing a lot of things that delight me this week/season as I work on making a cloak for a production I will be in on the 23rd and another project I am testing.

The first pattern I tested for is now available for sale at this link: https://authorkathrynmykel.com/store/quiltlets-quilted-bracelet-printed-pattern/

They are slap bracelets with beautiful quilted patterns, I loved making the test piece as it was very easy and forgivable. It is designed to be completed using foundation paper piecing, however, once you have the basic idea it would be very easy to make this your own.

While talking about autumn things that absolutely delight me, my favorite small candle company has released some new scents that can be found here; https://www.firelightfables.com/all-autumn-scents?utm_campaign=4f5a1e86-6bc4-4d72-a4ff-0f5f000d2f92&utm_source=so&utm_medium=mail&cid=c9389254-6c41-4f93-a23c-1c4246f0994e

These candles are delightful, made by a small business creator, intended to be used in D&D sessions, and the proprietor is just lovely. You will often find a small free gift inside your order.

If you want to up your skills with embroidery and goldwork then the best place to start (other than the royal school of needlework) is Hand & Lock, https://handembroidery.com/ They have some great classes starting in 2027, though they are quite expensive I believe that they are worth it.

Furls Crochet has some free patterns: https://furlscrochet.com/blogs/amigurumi-crochet-tutorials/free-halloween-amigurumi-batty-batty-bats?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Halloween%20Patterns%20%2801M3WC5CS652FYPB7T5NW6K4PV%29&he=%7B%7B%20email%20%7D%7D&el=email&_kx=ZHAmyHzoOc7sM4-tVWRJPLiG-JPe4yCuh-JyFASQIcAr-9uw1ZM5hcRDJBY_NhaA.NwHnqD

I love these new Embroidery Machine Designs that would make great holiday presents: https://urbanthreads.com/collections/new-embroidery-designs I have always had great luck with these patterns, I do suggest that you check their instructions for best results.

To be very honest with you my absolute favorite thing right now is my all access subscription to Long Thread Media, though I will have to pause it until I am caught up on some other things: https://longthreadmedia.com/?_gl=1*lvori5*_ga*MjExMzM5NDE2OS4xNzg3NzYwNjA0*_ga_F7JNHBYN42*czE3OTE4MjE1MjEkbzMkZzEkdDE3OTE4MjE1MjkkajUyJGwwJGgw

The Handweavers Guild of America is absolutely amazing, I love seeing their opportunities for crafters and learners to obtain information and opportunities to improve their craft: https://www.handweavers.org/

Finally for right now, Sorted Food Live is going to be the first weekend in December! Admittedly this one is not crafty, and very niche, however I find these brits to be so funny and love attending these live events. I am a little bummed that I will not be able to make most of the first day live (work) however I am going to thoroughly enjoy the second day! https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/sorted-live-a-food-nightmare-before-christmas-tickets-2003030292525?aff=Email&utm_campaign=Launch%3A+Sorted+Live+early+Dream+Weaver+ticket+launch+12+Oct&utm_content=LAUNCH%3A+Sorted+Live+Dream+Weaver+early+tickets+launch+12+Oct&utm_medium=email_action&utm_source=customer.io

I am also loving re-listening to Rituals a Spotify Podcast featuring Christine Schaefer and Em Schults

I do have some items for sale, if you are interested please comment on this post and I can get shipping and billing information to you:

A microwave potato bag for $20:

A Scissor Holder for $10:

A cloth notebook cover for $15:

A Holiday Table runner for $50:

Pattern Testing

by CZeitler

I had the privilege of pattern testing the Quiltlets Quilted Bracelet Cuff, whose pattern you can purchase here: https://authorkathrynmykel.com/store/quiltlets-quilted-bracelet-printed-pattern/

I am not an affiliate and do not make any money from this, though the kit was sent to me for free. This is a fun, scrappy, pattern that would be a great use for your scraps and as gifts for friends. I only did two of the simpler patterns available, and they both turned out amazing! I was using the Benartex fabric that was included in the test kit and the fabric is fabulous to work with. I did the flip and stitch method with the Foundation Paper Piecing, other than that I followed the lovely directions included.

Organization Idea

by CZeitler

I follow a wide variety of makers of all sorts. Artists, textile artists, fiber artists, crafters, quilters, sewists, historical recreationists, and so many more. They all bring something different to my creative adventures, color theory, design inspirations, organization inspiration, or just a new way of thinking of the world and materials found within.

At present the artist that is inspiring me most is Sue Spargo. She has a lovely online shop, creates amazing quilts using wool fabric and raw edge applique, along with embroidery and so much more. In one of her promotional emails she showed how some of the supplies she uses are organized, in a binder. Not just any binder, but a binder with card sleeves and plastic bags that fit in those sleeves containing supplies. *Mind Blown*!

I have been using Photo Boxes, found at Michaels (never pay more than $15 for them), to organize many of my smaller supplies and I love how they work. However I do stack them, and I find that having to dig around, even with a sheet detailing what is in each, tends to take some of the spontaneity and creative impulse out of the crafting. I decided to take Sue Spargo’s idea a half step further and purchase a 3 ring binder that has a zipper (essentially a trapper keeper).

I spent much of yesterday deciding what is going in there and getting things organized. I still plan on sewing up some 3 ring binder pouches to add slightly bigger items or embroidery projects on the go. This is just another step on my way to crafting organization! I love drawing inspiration from all of the sources available to me, if you get a chance check out Sue Spargo, her kits and supplies are amazing!

Until next time remember to Live Life a Little More Abstract!

Summer Opportunities

by CZeitler

Summer tends to lend itself to a wide variety of opportunities. To spend time outside, gardening, visiting the beach, and so much more. There are also a wide variety of learning opportunities available, some of which are free online. I am not affiliated with, nor do I endorse any of these courses. There are opportunities to ‘upgrade’ these courses for a fee, which I am not affiliated with, nor do I endorse.

From August 10th to the 18th there will be a Craft Discovery Summit, https://masteryroute.com/crafts/

September 21st-28th will be a Quilter’s Paradise Summit that you can register to be notified about: https://masteryroute.com/quilters-paradise-waitlist/

November 9-16 there will be a Needlework Paradise Summit that you can register to be notified about: https://masteryroute.com/needlework-waitlist/

HobbyScool also has a lineup of seminars and retreats, all digital, that you can find here: https://www.hobbyscool.com/

The upcoming classes are:

August 18-20 Back to Creativity Summit

September 15-17 Art of Handmade

October 15-17 Festive Fall Workshop Series

November 10-12 Elves’ Workshop Summit

December 15-17 Create and Reflect Retreat

Get Organized HQ does also tend to have a free fall event that I have found worth attending in the past.

If you are looking to ‘up’ your skills with paid courses there are too many for me to mention in this blog post. I will attempt to add some into future posts.

Learning opportunities can take many different forms, borrowing a book from your local library or guild, finding free online courses or youtube videos, attending a retreat or major conference, or taking time to talk with friends that share your passion. Not all learning has to be expensive if you are open to it! That being said, do not take those with experience for granted either. Attending a conference with world renowned artists is well worth the $3-5,000 it costs for room, board, other opportunities, and the chance to learn in person from an expert teacher is an opportunity not to be missed. In addition if you have the option to learn from an individual instructor then they should be compensated fairly. No matter your level, skill, and financial means you should be able to find learning opportunities for you!

Remember to Live Life a Little More Abstract!

Mid Summer Catch Up

by CZeitler

Life has been really busy this summer, I am always surprised by how much time and attention Summer Reading Takes! It is amazing to see all of the excited people of all ages reading and getting their prizes, admiring their progress, and helping people have fun at the library. I adore my job.

All of this business at work, as well as a few fun projects with my Weaving Guild, has meant that I really have not had much time to myself. I will also confess that there was some background stress over dental work, the cost of dentistry even though I have a full-time job and insurance, catching up on bills because of the dentistry…needing some work to pass my car inspection….all of this has managed to suck up my physical and creative energy. I had yesterday off and I decided that a trip to the beach was in order, it is only about an hour away, however, this is only going to be my second trip in 2026. I arrived around 6 am, this is the full moon as the sun is beginning to rise. The colors are not great, however, the effect is still breathtaking.

The waves were quite strong and I had so much fun looking for pretty rocks, finding beach glass, and just enjoying the weather and water. On the way home I was being very careful about my driving, since I did not pass NYS inspection, and got pulled over for something I thought was resolved. Lol.

Despite this I have been making progress on a wide variety of projects over the past week. I gave up on ‘saving’ my entire warp for the ‘Bog Jacket’ project I am attempting. This allowed me to cut off the rest, section by section, straighten them out as best I could, and then chain them to be used later. I do not know the precise yardage on my loom at this time so I am not certain if I can completely weave the jacket out of this piece and then the sleeves out of another. Right now I plan on the split starting about 36″ into the weaving to create the back of the jacket, and letting the split continue for the rest of the weaving. I can then use some kind of fastener to keep the jacket shut or use it as an open jacket. I did adjust how I started the weaving, instead of doing 3 picks and then creating a hem stitch, I decided to use twining at the bottom of the weaving to separate the threads, I feel that this eliminated the need to use waste yarn at the beginning of the warp to preserve those few inches.

I have a couple of other projects I am working on, however, I have reached the end of today’s post. I will try to get on a better schedule of posting shortly. Until then, remember to live life A Little More Abstract.

Vacation Weaving

by CZeitler

I was lucky enough to attend the wedding of one of my (many) cousins. In doing so I also took a day to shop around at places that I would never be able to go to otherwise, including a couple of thrift stores I was disappointed in. I did get some amazing embroidery floss/media at an embroidery shop that I had a ton of fun playing with. I also managed to go to a small yarn store and pick up a couple of skeins to play with. Part of my focus on weaving during this vacation is the ‘Weave Every Day in June’ Challenge by Mirrix looms. They specify that you do not have to weave every single day to participate, just submit your calendar of the days you did manage to weave.

One of my pleasures is eating, of course. I created a ‘snackle box’ for myself as an attempt at portion control during my trip, it served me well. I also tried Halal food, which was interesting. The cabbage was sweeter than I thought so it tasted odd to me, the cucumber salad was amazing, I love the white sauce. The beef and lamb tasted a bit too much like an Arby’s Gyro to impress me, however I am very glad that I tried it!

My cousin’s wedding was a sheer display of art, craft, and sheer geekiness that was inspiring to say the least. After seeing her and her husband be unabashedly geeky I realized how much my own Self-Sabotage and Imposter Syndrome is hurting me emotionally and creatively. That allowed me to have a burst of cleaning inspiration that was halted, abruptly, by my IBS acting up. YAY. On that bit of chronic illness TMI, I am going to sign off since my lunch break is almost over. Hopefully my cleaning and crafting mojo decide to keep going for the rest of the week. Until next time remember to Live Life a Little More Abstract!

Everything’s Going to Be All Rice

by CZeitler

About a month ago I purchased a great deal on frozen fish. Since then I have created a couple of amazing rice bowls to enjoy. Rice from the rice cooker, baked fish, Japanese BBQ sauce or Hoisin Sauce, and then sprinkled over with the ‘Everything’s Gonna be All Rice’ seasoning that was available at Walmart for a while. I have to go light on the seasoning since it does have salt which can then overwhelm everything. This has been a fun treat a few times a month to get me to eat more fish, eat at home more, and enjoy flavors that I do not always get to enjoy.

This is what happens when you are at work, as a librarian, and notice that the t-shirt you pulled from the clean laundry pile has a couple of grease stains that are now set in and do not come out with a shout stick. You sew a felt wizards tower to cover the stains. I think this turned out well!

I am also trying to sew a skirt for my cousin’s wedding this upcoming weekend, I lost the pattern until this past Saturday, so it isn’t just that I am procrastinating. The waistband is elasticated, my left hand had ligament repair surgery, so I improvised. I used a pair of table clamps to clamp down on the waistband while the elastic is slightly stretched, then I sewed the seam. This worked really well, though since the fabric is linen some of the fibers were slightly crushed leaving tiny shiny spots that are not noticeable at all.

I asked a cousin of mine if they would like a quilt. They readily agreed so I wanted to make some samples of different colored thread. I am looking at this sampler and even I can tell that the variegated is right out, the white just blends in too well with the background fabric. Fortunately I will be seeing this cousin at the wedding and various festivities around the wedding, so I am quite excited about that.

Other than some organizing and trying to put a shed up in my back yard that is all that I have been up to. Until next time remember to Live Life a Little More Abstract!

Too Much, Too Soon

by CZeitler

This past weekend was busy, though it could have gone much worse. Friday I missed half of staff development day, with the directors approval, and my sister and I made the 11 hour drive to where my cousin and uncle live. We got there about midnight, and were up the next morning to attend the funeral, graveside service, and memorial lunch. We did a little bit of shopping and were back in time to get invited to a family pizza fest. We ducked out of that a little early and crashed hard. The next morning we woke early to catch a cousin we had not seen in a long time, then crashed a bit more before we had to pack up, check out, and attend a lovely brunch to commemorate the family. Much was made of the little banner things I made, I hope they truly enjoyed them. There were so many people I only got a few minutes with my uncle and cousin, however I did get to spend time with family I had not seen in a while.

I also found out that another cousin was engaged to be married, I have never seen him happier than he is with his fiance. I am looking forward to seeing the family again in June for (yet another) cousin’s wedding. I love being a part of a large family, I do need to save up a bit to give them a wedding present.

We drove home on Sunday, getting there about 1am Monday. I had an appointment to get a tooth pulled at 9:30 am, which we made. It was fascinating as I swear I was only out for five minutes, but it turns out the procedure took 30 minutes. I did spend the rest of the day sleeping instead of the shopping trip my sister thought we would be taking. My supervisor had scheduled me to come back on Wednesday since I am going to be working this Saturday. I really appreciate that since I was not up to much on Tuesday.

Today is Wednesday, I am not sure if I am reacting to the surgery and antibiotics or if I have the cold that was going around work last week. Either way I seem to have a runny nose, and a slightly dry/sore throat. Plans are always shifting here. Originally I was going to attend Maryland Sheep and Wool festival, then go on to H&H Americas. Then I chose to do a car shuffle with my cousin, sister, and myself. That meant that longer trips were off the table for a bit. After that I cut my vacation in half, however, I was going to go south east to help my cousin, that I did the car shuffle with, because her dad was having a procedure. The procedure was pushed back a week, so I am not needed, and I feel slightly like garbage so I do not know if it is a good idea for me to take the trip for a visit.

My cousin who lost her mom asked for me to distract her with a quilt I will be making her, I sent and email and hope to make progress on that. At present, if I am feeling better by next Tuesday I plan on visiting my cousin for Wednesday through Friday, leave early Saturday so I can swing by and change cars with my sister, then sleep on Sunday. I think that this would be the easiest way to not feel like I am missing out on anything and still give myself a little time to figure things out. On the other hand, if I still feel like something ran me over I will probably skip everything and sleep my time off away.

Until next time remember to Live Life a Little More Abstract!