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I have completely settled into a quiet, peaceful era within my life and I am here for all.of.it!!! I'm a HUGE advocate for tuning out the world for a bit and ignoring the dreary news. Over the last couple of months, I have been looking for a way to create a community of people. People who stay up until 2am to finish a book and then stay up for another hour just to process it. People who will walk into a yarn shop just to touch the pretty skeins and buy another set of knitting needles they don't need, but need.
If this speaks to you, then I'm excited to introduce....The Bookish Hook Series!
What is The Bookish Hook? - Well, it's a bi-weekly YouTube series where I’ll be crocheting a blanket, with each square inspired by the colours of my favourite book covers. Each episode will feature a new book-inspired square, where I be crocheting and chatting about the who's and what's of each book. I'm really curious to see what this blanket will look like in the end.
Why This Series? - I want to create a community where we can talk about the books that changed our lives; to look for advice or find tips and tricks on how to bind a quilt; to get help on how to decipher a knitting pattern, and to get excited about the release of the new Fourth Wing book that just came out. My husband has no idea who Xaden is and why I want to melt into the books to lay eyes on him so I can't exactly talk about it with him right?
Join the Community - To start, this series will exist primarily on YouTube but I am thinking of launching a private Facebook group to keep the conversation going. We may even start a book club if there is interest. We'll see where this path leads us!
How to Get Involved
Subscribe to my YouTube Channel so you don’t miss an episode!
Comment on videos with your favourite books recommendations so everyone can put them in their TBR (to-be-read) pile.
Share your own crafty creations using #TheBookishHook on social media!
I can’t wait to get started on this project. The first episode will be released on January 30th, so stay tuned!
~ Cindy Xx
We are now into January! We are officially in the season of New Year's resolutions which may include: making vows to exercise more, detoxing from Christmas cookies (I miss cookies for breakfast), and feeling the urge to be more productive. I mean, the linen closet will not purge itself right? And don't even get me started about the news cycles these days. Every time we turn on the evening news, we turn it right back off again.
The current weather in my neck of the woods is cold. Last week, we saw our nightly lows plummet to -21 with windchill and we have a healthy amount of snow on the ground with more snow in the forecast for this week. 'Tis the season to hibernate and craft until spring!
There’s something comforting about crafting during the winter months. Maybe it’s the weight of a warm blanket that you are crocheting, putting together some handmade Valentine's Day cards, or settling in with a craft project during a snowstorm. It's a great reminder that creativity can flourish even in the quietest of seasons.
Crafting is also a wonderful distraction to the noise of the world. It gives us permission to disconnect from screens and the constant stream of news. Instead of scrolling, we’re sewing. Instead of worrying, we’re learning new crochet stitches. It’s not just about making something tangible; it’s about making space for ourselves and our well-being.
So if you’re feeling the pull to slow down this January, then lock your door and embrace a little winter hibernation. Grab your crochet kit, dust off your sewing machine, or dive into a stack of cardstock and ignore the world for a little bit.
If you need a project to work on, then follow the links below to find my DIY Craft kits:
If you have fabric and/or yarn, then check out my digital patterns here:
Ok - we are officially one week away from Christmas. How is everyone doing? Are we ready? Almost ready? Not even close to being ready? Wherever you are at, you have 7 days left - let's do this.
This year has been full of changes for my business, and transitioning to making DIY Craft Kits was both exciting and nerve-wracking. I wasn’t sure how it would go or if it was the right direction, but kits and patterns have been flying out the door so that tells me that it was the right decision.
When I started creating these kits, my hope was to bring a little bit of joy and creativity into your lives. Whether it’s been through handmade card kits, crochet projects, or sewing kits, my goal has always been to give you everything you need to take a break, try something new, and make something you’re proud of.
I know life is busy, and it’s not always easy to find time to sit down and craft. That’s why it’s so amazing to see the projects you’ve completed, read your kind messages, and hear how these kits have brought a little happiness to your days. It’s the best reminder of why I love what I do. Next year, I can’t wait to create more DIY craft kits. I've got quite the list and I can't wait to dive in.
Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Your support means everything, and I can’t wait to see what we create together in the new year.
Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Xx ~ Cindy
Starting any new craft can be scary as heck!! As crafty as I am, it takes me awhile to gear up to something new. It took me about 4 years to warm up to my sewing machine so I completely understand the fear. This is where my DIY Sewing Kits come in to save the day. Having a kit that's prepped and ready to go makes it a lot easier to squash the fears and get started.
Everything Comes Ready to Go!
One of the biggest perks of using a sewing kit is that all the materials are included and prepped for you. It's fun to head to a fabric shop and touch all of the bolts (we do this right?) however, these kits eliminate the need to hunt for fabric or worry about whether you’ve got enough thread—everything is right in the box.
This means you can skip the measuring and cutting and jump straight to the fun part: assembly. Pre-cut pieces not only save a lot of time but they are great for those who don't have access to a fabric store or, the room or tools to cut fabric.
Clear, Easy to Follow Instructions
Every sewing kit includes detailed instructions to guide you through the process. I designed each pattern to ensure they are easy to follow and includes photos to help visualize each step.
To take this one step further, most kits include a private link to a step by step video tutorial! I am a visual learner and I appreciate having a video to watch, especially if I'm learning something new so I'm here to guide you through each step.
Perfect for Beginners
My sewing kits are designed for the beginner in mind however, if you know your way around a sewing machine, these kits are great if you need to whip up a quick gift or two. You may not even fall in love with sewing so kits are a great option to try it out without having to buy all the sewing things.
An Excuse to Escape Life
Life can be hectic - I get it! I have kids and other life things that pull me away from the fun stuff. Like, can a chef just come to my house and cook dinner for us everyday? When I do find those precious hours of free time, I love being able to dive into a kit with everything prepped and ready to be assembled.
Ready to Start?
If you’ve been hesitant to pick up sewing because it feels too complicated, a kit might just be the answer. With pre-cut materials, clear instructions, and beginner-friendly projects, sewing kits make it simple to create with your own hands. Check out the DIY Sewing Kit collection to learn more!
Collection Link: https://thecraftshoppecanada.com/collections/sewing-patterns-kits
Happy Stitching Xx
Ho-ho-hold on to your yarn and card stock because the season of giving is getting closer! If you’re on the hunt for the perfect handmade present for that crafty friend or family member, I’ve got you covered. From DIY craft kits to spark any creative soul to handmade items that are ready for under the tree, this is your Christmas gift guide for 2024.
DIY Kits: Gifts for the Creative Souls
When it comes to thoughtful presents, a DIY kit is like giving two gifts in one: the fun of making it and the joy of using it! And the best part? These kits are designed for every skill level, so anyone can dive in.
Sometimes, you just want to make and give something that’s handmade. However, best laid plans may not work out in the end - especially if you don't have time to learn a new craft in time for Christmas. Holidays are hectic and I understand that so this section was created to save the day.
I hope this gift guide helps you this year! Christmas is the best time to share a little handmade magic, and these gifts will do just that! Whether it’s a DIY craft kit, or a cozy self-care gift, every item on this list is packed with love, creativity, and some festive magic.
Christmas card kits have been flying out the door over the last couple of months which means, people are getting their Christmas cards ready for December. I’m a planner/organizer so if I can check things off of the festive “to-do” list, then I’m all over it.
Now, my favourite part about designing card kits is staring at my card stock pile and watching the ideas in my head come to life. Sometimes I start off with a definitive idea but once I start cutting and putting different elements together, that idea tends to fly out the window.
Having said all of that, grab a coffee and let's chat about handmade card kits in more detail!
Materials
~ The one thing that I stand by with all of my kits are the quality of materials that I use. Each card is designed using thick 80lb card stock for a sturdy, heavy card that you can't find in a store.
~ Sentiments are designed and printed in house which I love because then I can mix and match unique sentiments. In the past, I have had custom sentiment requests to make it a more personalized card kit which I'm more than happy to accommodate.
~ When you purchase a card kit, it's a full and complete kit! Everything you need to put your cards together comes ready to be assembled. Another fun fact is that you can stick to what I have designed or you can take all of the card pieces, dump them in a pile, and change things up.
Individual Card Kits
~ I have a variety of card kits available from birthday, to anniversary and of course, Christmas cards. My goal is to try and cover off all of the major events that happen throughout the year so that you can build up your greeting card stash.
~ Each card kit has bundled options so you can stock up and save a little $$ at the same time. Perfect for grabbing a few kits and inviting your friends over to put them together as a group. That's my ideal night in right there!
Advent Calendar
~ Every year, I put out an Advent Calendar that comes with 24 individually wrapped card kits. You can make one card per day or, spend a day or weekend putting them all together at once. There are no rules!
~ Now, all of the Advent Calendars for 2024 are now sold out but I will be putting together another set for next year. I’m thinking of a mixed sentiment box so we'll see what comes to life - stay tuned!
Subscription Box
~ This is a new program that I started at the beginning of the year and it has become quite popular. Every month your kit will include everything you need to put 3 custom cards together. The cards designed for this program are exclusive to this program...kind of like a secret (and cool) card kit club!
~ There are different subscription options to choose from including 3, 6, 9, or 12 months. The price for each subscription option is a one time fee for the entire subscription period (not per month).
At the end of the day, who the heck wants junk mail and bills when you can open up your mailbox and find a card kit to put together instead?! To find all available Handmade Card Kit options click here: Handmade Card Kit Link
The world seems to be a bit of a mess these days and it's seen everywhere. On the news, social media and even running into the curmudgeon types at the grocery store. Then, add in all of the day to day things that life throws at us such as laundry, kids and figuring out what's on the menu for dinner. It's hard to find a moment to sit and just be. However, when we do find those 5 minutes, we often feel guilty for taking a breather because there's always (always) something that needs to be done (I mean, do we even need clean clothes?)
Insert the wonderful world of crafting!
Think of it as a brief escape from life and to just give yourself that time to drown everything out and put yourself back together. Studies show that your chosen craft is a positive outlet for mental health. By focusing on a sewing pattern, crocheting a repetitive stitch sequence or designing a scrapbook layout, your mind is focused on that very task and it creates a calming state of mind as it's just you and the rhythm of your project.
Once you are finished said project, the sense of accomplishment is wild especially if you are new to your chosen craft kit or project. If you are crocheting for the first time and your stitches work out - that's a huge deal!! Also, crafting doesn't have to be a solo mission! Gather up some friends, lay out some card kits, brew your favourite tea blend and get creative together. It's a perfect "girl's night in" by connecting with your best people and getting in some much needed laughs along the way.
So, grab your favourite kits, throw on some tunes and disappear from the world. Even if it's just for a short time!
I have said time and time again - there is nothing better than creating something with your own two hands. In a world where life is moving at super sonic speed, where we want instant gratification, where we live with our phones attached to our hands (hi, me!), the act of sitting down with a crochet project or a card making kit forces us to put all of that nonsense into a time-out.
For me, the crafty spark hit when I was in Gr.8. I remember sitting at a sewing machine and making a small tote bag for one of our class projects. I had never used a sewing machine before so when it all came together and looked like an actual tote bag (lol), I felt something light up inside. I felt pride that I actually made something with my own two hands.
Fast forward to about 7 years ago, I was introduced to a pile of card stock to make handmade greeting cards and that sparked the idea of starting a handmade business. I wanted to create a community where everyone from the beginners to the seasoned crafters were given a reason to step away from the noise of the outside world. I wanted to give people an opportunity to try something new, learn how to crochet, fall in love with fabric and to feel "that feeling" of giving someone a gift that you made.
My goal is to take over the world with one kit, one card and one ball of yarn at a time. Life is infinitely better that way! Xx
(PS: Head back to my homepage and click "DIY Craft Kits" at the top to get started on your very own crafty project)
As someone who grew up in the 80's, it was very common to see a granny square blanket on someone's bed or hanging over the back of a couch. Mothers and Grandmothers spent hours stitching up blankets that contained these multi coloured squares.
What I didn't know was that the granny square pattern dates back to the late 1800's where the pattern was published in a needlework publication (Weldon's Practical Needlework). No wonder we grew up surrounded by granny square blankets - they have been around for quite some time. What I love most is that this pattern is still going strong to this day.
Crochet designers worldwide have put their own spin on this classic pattern and have expanded beyond making the standard blanket. You can make purses, phone holders, table runners and clothing. All featuring the classic granny square design.
When my husband was little, he spent a lot of time at his Baba's house. She was an avid crocheter so she was always stitching up a project of two. Eventually he asked her to make him a blanket so she gathered up her yarn scraps and got to work. We still have her blanket and I just love looking at her stitch work. Never, EVER underestimate the love that is passed down through a handmade gift.
If you want to learn how to start making granny squares and you're not sure where to start, then follow the link to my YouTube video to get started. It's a great pattern to get started with as it utilizes just 2 stitches. Have fun and please send photos of your creations - I would love to see them!
If the crochet bug has taken over, then have a look through my Crochet Pattern | Kit collection to keep going!
Yes, I know it's August. However, we're almost into September which means Christmas will arrive in about 7 minutes. I don't why this happens but it just does so I thought I would highlight some festive things that are available, to help you plan and get ready.
Christmas Card Kits
I have 3 handmade card kits available and I just added bundle options to each listing so that you can stock up if you have to send off a lot of cards. The best part is that you can start working on your cards now to have them ready for December which is one thing you can cross off from the festive "to-do" list. If you need a lot of cards, then the Advent calendar is something to take a look at. It comes with 24 individually wrapped Christmas card kits.
Sewing Kits
If you are heading down the handmade path for Christmas gifts this year, I have festive fabric options for the quilted coaster and teapot cozy kits. These projects were designed to be easy enough to whip up a few gifts in no time. Everyone needs a little festive, handmade touch to their decor for the season.
Crochet Kits
Psst: check out the chunky wool scarf pattern and/or kit. It's easy to make and perfect to battle the colder weather during the fall/winter months.
Ready to Ship!
Now, if you don't have the time or the patience to put anything together then browse through the gift section below. Everything is made and ready to be shipped. I can even ship it directly to someone if they live in a different city/town than you!
During the Covid years, crafting kits became a lifeline. They gave people a chance to learn a new craft or to have a project to work on as a distraction from the news. From there, traditions were started and still continue to this day
*A mother/daughter duo will now order Christmas Card Kits every year and then plan an evening to put them together. Christmas Card Kit
*In November of 2020, I received a bulk order for Christmas Card Kits. The lovely woman who ordered them normally makes her own Christmas cards every year. However, that year she just didn't have the time as her son had just been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease. With the kits that she ordered, she was able to bring them with her and put them together during her son's weekly treatments, and was still able to keep up with her tradition of sending handmade Christmas cards. Festive Card Kit
When I hear stories like this, it's just something else. It's part of my mission to not only help where I can but for people to discover their inner crafting spirit.
*Last year, two best friends who live in separate towns from each other ordered their own Handmade Card - Advent Calendar. Once they received them, they got on a zoom call and were able to catch up on life while putting their cards together. Advent Calendar
*A crochet kit was recently ordered by a mother who left instructions to have it sent to her daughter at summer camp. She wanted to send a little love from home and for her daughter to have a project to work on during her down time. Crochet Kit
*A Subscription Box was recently ordered by a lovely woman who lives in a rural area. She loves ordering kits online given she doesn't have a local craft store in her area. Subscription Box
These are just a few examples of the stories I hear when Craft Kit orders come in and I just LOVE IT! So grab your tape runner or a crochet hook and let's go!
~ Cindy Xx
One of the things I love most about being a small business owner are the shifts and changes that take place over time.
It's testing new products, trying new techniques, and falling in love with the process of putting a new product line together and hoping the world falls in love with it as I have.
The world of crafting is massive. There are so many paths that you can go down in an effort to tap into your creative side. For the last couple of years, I have been experimenting with a lot of areas and having a blast doing so. I love watching a project come to life but, in my quest to try all of the things, I was starting to move away from creating with my own two hands and instead, getting swept up in what was popular. So I decided to change that...
...and I think I have finally landed on something.
Over the next 6 months, I'll be transitioning into a DIY Craft Kit focus for my business. I have a lot of Card Making Kit fans and people are snapping up my Sewing Kits as well. So I'm taking what is currently working and introducing new yarn things by creating Crochet Patterns and DIY Crochet Kits and bringing them into the crafty fam jam!
My need to convince the world that crochet and sewing is COOL, and that handmade cards carry a certain magic, is why this decision was an easy one to make.
I'm currently in the process of building up the Crochet side of things and it's all starting to come together with more to come. This new path means that everything that isn't related to Craft Kits will slowly dwindle down. As things like mugs and teapot cozies sell out, then that's it. So grab things while you can!
If you are curious, follow the links below to each DIY section.
Card Making Kits: Click Here
Sewing Kits: Click Here
Crochet Patterns | Kits: Click Here
I'm very excited to see where this new path leads!!
