Monday, November 25, 2013
Bluifinn: Project Yellow
Bluifinn: Project Yellow: New Look Workroom Project Runway pattern I have always wanted a yellow dress. This dress could be worn with black tights or accessorized ...
Project Yellow
New Look Workroom Project Runway pattern
I have always wanted a yellow dress. This dress could be worn with black tights or accessorized with other colors, It is a neutral that could be a great base for accessories. The fabric was in my stash and is a polyester knit remnant that I found on a clearance section at my local fabric store.
It has an embossed tone on tone on the surface, I needed a pattern that would be simple in design that would complement the design of the fabric.
The pattern that I found is a New Look Workroom 6071 Project Runway . I have had great luck with New Look patterns in the past. The front has a v neck with a .overlay. The directions in the pattern guide inside the paper envelope are easy to follow.
sleeves were shortened to just above the elbow.
I then discovered that the v neck was too low, so I added a v insert, with a piece of antique lace from my stash pile. The cowl is crocheted from a magazine called Simple Knits. I'll be blogging about it later....Happy Sewing!
I have always wanted a yellow dress. This dress could be worn with black tights or accessorized with other colors, It is a neutral that could be a great base for accessories. The fabric was in my stash and is a polyester knit remnant that I found on a clearance section at my local fabric store.
It has an embossed tone on tone on the surface, I needed a pattern that would be simple in design that would complement the design of the fabric.
The pattern that I found is a New Look Workroom 6071 Project Runway . I have had great luck with New Look patterns in the past. The front has a v neck with a .overlay. The directions in the pattern guide inside the paper envelope are easy to follow.
sleeves were shortened to just above the elbow.
I then discovered that the v neck was too low, so I added a v insert, with a piece of antique lace from my stash pile. The cowl is crocheted from a magazine called Simple Knits. I'll be blogging about it later....Happy Sewing!
Friday, November 15, 2013
Bluifinn: Knitted cowls
Bluifinn: Knitted cowls: Knitted Cowl Neck Warmers Its been a few years since this book has been published, I fell in love at first sight.and knew with certainly ...
Knitted cowls
Knitted Cowl Neck Warmers
Its been a few years since this book has been published, I fell in love at first sight.and knew with certainly that I would be making more than two projects from this book. Last year I was not creative with color mixing. and I tended to make the same color as the models in the book. The graphic art layout show multi layering of colored and sequin t-shirts. The book is displayed in a casual fun and hip way.
I used a Lion brand pink wool ease for the pink wool cowl. The cowl sits nice on the frame, and is toasty warm.
The black and blue hat and cowl reminds me of the northern lights in Finland. It is a lion brand wool ease. The variegated green is also a Lion brand Home style yarn.
Its been a few years since this book has been published, I fell in love at first sight.and knew with certainly that I would be making more than two projects from this book. Last year I was not creative with color mixing. and I tended to make the same color as the models in the book. The graphic art layout show multi layering of colored and sequin t-shirts. The book is displayed in a casual fun and hip way.
Saturday, August 17, 2013
Saturday, August 10, 2013
Fried Zucchini
Fried Zucchini
Recently my blood pressure took a hike upward. Whenever I have a health issue, I turn to my natural health alternative book, Better Health through Natural Healing by Dr. Ross Trattler N.D. with the assistance of Dr. Adrian Jones N.D. This book has been my lifesaver and go to manual for all health concerns.
My plan of attack is too eat more vegetarian meals, lose some weight, add more exercise in my day, and add vitamins. Adding an apple, drink grape juice, add more onions,less processed meats, and more vegetables into my diet. If I want to bring down my blood pressure, I must do things differently than what I have done in the past. For one thing, eliminating sugar and fat combination of food. So no ice cream, muffins, red meat, and white bread products. Then I'll be adding Vit. B complex, Vitamin C, Vitamin E..vitamins.
Here is a heart healthy dinner meal.
Fried Zucchini
1 T. olive oil
1/4 to 1/2 chopped onion
1/2 T. of garlic or 1 to 2 cloves of garlic
2 tsp. Traders Joes 21 Seasoning Salute{salt free, non-irradiated, all natural}
1/2 tsp. of ground pepper
1 small zucchini, peeled and cut
3/4 of a ripe tomato, cut into small pieces
1/4 c. shredded mozzarella cheese
Fry up the chopped onion in olive oil until soft. Add zucchini and garlic until it is soft. Then add tomatoes. Seasoning Salute, pepper, Cook until tomatoes are soft. Add shredded mozzarella and place a cover on to melt for a few minutes.
Recently my blood pressure took a hike upward. Whenever I have a health issue, I turn to my natural health alternative book, Better Health through Natural Healing by Dr. Ross Trattler N.D. with the assistance of Dr. Adrian Jones N.D. This book has been my lifesaver and go to manual for all health concerns.
Here is a heart healthy dinner meal.
Fried Zucchini
1 T. olive oil
1/4 to 1/2 chopped onion
1/2 T. of garlic or 1 to 2 cloves of garlic
2 tsp. Traders Joes 21 Seasoning Salute{salt free, non-irradiated, all natural}
1/2 tsp. of ground pepper
1 small zucchini, peeled and cut
3/4 of a ripe tomato, cut into small pieces
1/4 c. shredded mozzarella cheese
Fry up the chopped onion in olive oil until soft. Add zucchini and garlic until it is soft. Then add tomatoes. Seasoning Salute, pepper, Cook until tomatoes are soft. Add shredded mozzarella and place a cover on to melt for a few minutes.
Knitted Dishcloths
Knitted Dishcloths
As a knitter, eventually everyone will add. their favorite pattern to a new cotton dishcloth. I like straight up knitting. Fast and easy. I have a collection, so I always have some on hand. They last for a very long time, and are heavier and more durable than store bought towel ones. The one below is called Company Dishcloth, with increasing and then decreasing, as it is knit from one corner to the other. A good book to try is:
Knitty Pretty Simple instructions for 30 fabulous projects by Kris Percival. This is one of my favorite knitting books, that I keep going back to over and over. These make great housewarming gifts in a basket with soap.
As a knitter, eventually everyone will add. their favorite pattern to a new cotton dishcloth. I like straight up knitting. Fast and easy. I have a collection, so I always have some on hand. They last for a very long time, and are heavier and more durable than store bought towel ones. The one below is called Company Dishcloth, with increasing and then decreasing, as it is knit from one corner to the other. A good book to try is:
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Sour dough Pizza Part 3
Sour dough Pizza Part 3
I keep thinking of ways to use my stock of sour dough mix idling in the refrigerator. Then I came across this idea and it far exceeds my Honey Wheat Pizza Dough in my earlier blog writings...
Sour Dough Pizza Dough
2 tsp. of yeast
1 cup plus 1 tsp. of lukewarm water
2 1/4 to 3 c. bread flour
1/2 c. sour dough starter
1/4 c. grated Parmesan cheese
2 T. olive oil
2 1/2 T. sugar
2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. of oregano
1/2 tsp. of basil
1/4 tsp. of crushed pepper flakes
Add Yeast to lukewarm water, let it sit for 5 minutes, then add 3/4 c. of bread flour , stir, and let this sponge dough sit for half an hour. I use the pan in the bread machine for this step. Then add all the ingredients, except about 3/4 c. of flour, into the bread machine pan, set the machine on dough mode, and let the machine knead the dough, keep watching the dough to be sure it forms into a ball, add the rest of the reserved bread flour until it is a firm ball,{ keep pinching it until, it is not too sticky...and has a good consistancy to roll out...) After the machine is dough with the dough, take it out, and let it sit in the refrigerator for 6-8 hours to develop the yeast. then take it out, and let it rise in a warm oven, when it was started to warm and rise, use corn meal on the bottom so it doesn't stick to the pan...divide it into 2 large crust, 4 medium crusts, or 8 personnel pan crusts {William Sonoma has great heavy duty personal pizza pans} Whatever pan you choose, make sure it has a heavy duty thickness to it. Let rise until the dough doubles in size.
Precook the crusts for 5-6 minutes at 425 degree oven. Then let cool and wrap it and freeze for later.
Then add pizza sauce. Add dried basil, and your choice of pizza toppings.... Then lots of mozzarella cheese.
Bake for another 10-15 minutes until slightly brown on top.
This has a mixture of flavor combos in the crust, besides melting in your mouth. Enjoy!
I keep thinking of ways to use my stock of sour dough mix idling in the refrigerator. Then I came across this idea and it far exceeds my Honey Wheat Pizza Dough in my earlier blog writings...
Sour Dough Pizza Dough
2 tsp. of yeast
1 cup plus 1 tsp. of lukewarm water
2 1/4 to 3 c. bread flour
1/2 c. sour dough starter
1/4 c. grated Parmesan cheese
2 T. olive oil
2 1/2 T. sugar
2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. of oregano
1/2 tsp. of basil
1/4 tsp. of crushed pepper flakes
Add Yeast to lukewarm water, let it sit for 5 minutes, then add 3/4 c. of bread flour , stir, and let this sponge dough sit for half an hour. I use the pan in the bread machine for this step. Then add all the ingredients, except about 3/4 c. of flour, into the bread machine pan, set the machine on dough mode, and let the machine knead the dough, keep watching the dough to be sure it forms into a ball, add the rest of the reserved bread flour until it is a firm ball,{ keep pinching it until, it is not too sticky...and has a good consistancy to roll out...) After the machine is dough with the dough, take it out, and let it sit in the refrigerator for 6-8 hours to develop the yeast. then take it out, and let it rise in a warm oven, when it was started to warm and rise, use corn meal on the bottom so it doesn't stick to the pan...divide it into 2 large crust, 4 medium crusts, or 8 personnel pan crusts {William Sonoma has great heavy duty personal pizza pans} Whatever pan you choose, make sure it has a heavy duty thickness to it. Let rise until the dough doubles in size.
Precook the crusts for 5-6 minutes at 425 degree oven. Then let cool and wrap it and freeze for later.
Then add pizza sauce. Add dried basil, and your choice of pizza toppings.... Then lots of mozzarella cheese.
Bake for another 10-15 minutes until slightly brown on top.
This has a mixture of flavor combos in the crust, besides melting in your mouth. Enjoy!
Sourdough bread Part 2
Sour dough Part 2
I've been experimenting with my sour dough mix, and keeping it alive by restocking it every 3 days, by taking out the old, and adding in new flour and water, I keep it in the refrigerator.
French Sour dough Bread
1 c. warm water
1 tsp. of yeast
1 T. sugar
3/4 tsp. of salt
1/2 c. sour dough starter
1 1/2- 2 1/2 cups of bread flour. {Sometimes I divide this with 1/4 cup of rye, 1/4 c. spelt flour, or 1/4 to 1/2 c. whole wheat. The flour depends on the texture of the dough, Start with lukewarm water, add yeast, let it sit for 5 minutes. Then add just plain bread flour{about 3/4 c. and stir), to start your sponge dough going, let the sponge sit for 1/2 hour in a warm spot. I usually use the dough setting in my bread machine for this. Then I add the rest of ingredients, start the button on the dough bread machine, and let it do the kneading. I keep watching the dough in the beginning to be sure I add enough flour. You want it in a ball, but not sticky, but not to dry either.
After it has risen in the warm environment in the bread machine. I usually take it out and let it sit in the refrigerator over night or for 6-8 hours for the yeast to age. Take it out, divide it into two small loaves, or divide it into 4 small pieces, and roll out into long ropes. Twist two of the ropes together into two Baguettes.
Use cornmeal on the bottom of the pan. and place some on top also. {or place sesame seeds with an egg wash on top} if you choose.
Let rise in a warm oven, with a towel over the dough, until double.
Now bake at 425 oven, for 14- 18 minutes, with a steel bowl with about 1/2 to 2 cups of ice cubes in the pan, set at the lowest rack in the oven right below the pan of dough. This creates a moist environment, and develops a chewy moist crust....
I've been experimenting with my sour dough mix, and keeping it alive by restocking it every 3 days, by taking out the old, and adding in new flour and water, I keep it in the refrigerator.
French Sour dough Bread
1 c. warm water
1 tsp. of yeast
1 T. sugar
3/4 tsp. of salt
1/2 c. sour dough starter
1 1/2- 2 1/2 cups of bread flour. {Sometimes I divide this with 1/4 cup of rye, 1/4 c. spelt flour, or 1/4 to 1/2 c. whole wheat. The flour depends on the texture of the dough, Start with lukewarm water, add yeast, let it sit for 5 minutes. Then add just plain bread flour{about 3/4 c. and stir), to start your sponge dough going, let the sponge sit for 1/2 hour in a warm spot. I usually use the dough setting in my bread machine for this. Then I add the rest of ingredients, start the button on the dough bread machine, and let it do the kneading. I keep watching the dough in the beginning to be sure I add enough flour. You want it in a ball, but not sticky, but not to dry either.
After it has risen in the warm environment in the bread machine. I usually take it out and let it sit in the refrigerator over night or for 6-8 hours for the yeast to age. Take it out, divide it into two small loaves, or divide it into 4 small pieces, and roll out into long ropes. Twist two of the ropes together into two Baguettes.
Use cornmeal on the bottom of the pan. and place some on top also. {or place sesame seeds with an egg wash on top} if you choose.
Let rise in a warm oven, with a towel over the dough, until double.
Now bake at 425 oven, for 14- 18 minutes, with a steel bowl with about 1/2 to 2 cups of ice cubes in the pan, set at the lowest rack in the oven right below the pan of dough. This creates a moist environment, and develops a chewy moist crust....
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Sour dough Starter
Sour Dough Starter...
This should take .4 days..This is a new cooking experiment for me.
Day 1...1/2 c. of whole wheat flour , 1/2 c. of rye flour
add 3/4 c. water. The consistency should be into a ball like texture, Cover with plastic wrap and let
it sit on the counter
Day 2...Add 1 Cup of bread flour and 1/2 c. water Mix well. Cover with plastic wrap. Let it sit on the counter
Day 3... Mix in a bowl 1c. bread flour and 1/2 c. water. Throw out half of existing dough, then add the remaining starter to new mix. Mix until blended.
Day 4...Repeat day 3. The mixture should be doubled, rising, and bubbly.
Starter is ready for your recipe. Keep feeding culture every 3 days, by tossing out half of the dough, and adding new flour/water... and every time you use it.
This will get better with age. Some bakeries in San Francisco claim to be using 100 year old starter...
More to come...
This should take .4 days..This is a new cooking experiment for me.
Day 1...1/2 c. of whole wheat flour , 1/2 c. of rye flour
add 3/4 c. water. The consistency should be into a ball like texture, Cover with plastic wrap and let
it sit on the counter
Day 2...Add 1 Cup of bread flour and 1/2 c. water Mix well. Cover with plastic wrap. Let it sit on the counter
Day 3... Mix in a bowl 1c. bread flour and 1/2 c. water. Throw out half of existing dough, then add the remaining starter to new mix. Mix until blended.
Day 4...Repeat day 3. The mixture should be doubled, rising, and bubbly.
Starter is ready for your recipe. Keep feeding culture every 3 days, by tossing out half of the dough, and adding new flour/water... and every time you use it.
This will get better with age. Some bakeries in San Francisco claim to be using 100 year old starter...
More to come...
Monday, July 15, 2013
Strawberry Buttermilk Pancakes
Strawberry Buttermilk Pancakes
Growing up on the farm, the family had pancakes on the weekends. My mom would make them from scratch and sometimes even boil corn syrup and/or brown sugar with water to make pancake syrup.{That was when money was tight} Since then I have developed a version of the past. I use some whole wheat along with the white flour because I like the extra nutrition it provides. This is a basic recipe that can be modified by substituting any kind of fruit. Peaches, banana, or blueberries would all work well.
Basic Pancake
1 egg, beaten
2 T. butter, melted
1/4 c whole wheat flour
3/4 c. white flour
3/4 c. milk or buttermilk
1 T. sugar or truvia sweetener {3 Pkg.} www.truvia.com
1/2 tsp. salt
3 tsp. baking powder
Beat until smooth. Cut up 1/2 c of fresh strawberries into batter. Serve with a dollop of cream cheese, and Anderson's pure maple syrup .www.andersonsmaplesyrup.com
Growing up on the farm, the family had pancakes on the weekends. My mom would make them from scratch and sometimes even boil corn syrup and/or brown sugar with water to make pancake syrup.{That was when money was tight} Since then I have developed a version of the past. I use some whole wheat along with the white flour because I like the extra nutrition it provides. This is a basic recipe that can be modified by substituting any kind of fruit. Peaches, banana, or blueberries would all work well.
Basic Pancake
1 egg, beaten
2 T. butter, melted
1/4 c whole wheat flour
3/4 c. white flour
3/4 c. milk or buttermilk
1 T. sugar or truvia sweetener {3 Pkg.} www.truvia.com
1/2 tsp. salt
3 tsp. baking powder
Beat until smooth. Cut up 1/2 c of fresh strawberries into batter. Serve with a dollop of cream cheese, and Anderson's pure maple syrup .www.andersonsmaplesyrup.com
Saturday, June 29, 2013
Friday, June 28, 2013
Finn Fest 2013
A much anticipated vacation this year was a journey by car to Hancock,MI to attend the annual Finnish 4 day festival. As we meandered by car through a town called Toivola and finally into the upper peninsula and into the copper country of northern Michigan. Stopping at a grocery store, I discovered Finnish food such as fresh warm pasties and rhubarb yogurt. We checked into our dorm room at Finlandia University and dined in the Finlandia Cafe downstairs and had Finnish cuisine as Pork Chops with stuffed green peppers.
The Festival takes place in many places and there is a shuttle bus that drops you off at any location. Many of the classes that I took were at Michigan Technological University across the bridge in Houghton, Mi. On Thursday I attended a lecture with Lauri Anderson on Writing Memoirs. He is an author of eight books, His first book, Hunting Hemingway's Trout, is the one that I bought in the Tori {marketplace}
The next destination was a lecture of Finnish Midsummer desserts from a Finnish chef, Sirpa Welch. Sirpa serves as an executive chef at the Finnish Consulate in Los Angeles since 1997. Her Rhubarb dessert was a huge hit. But she also added that black licorice ice cream is a food trend {Finland has there own brand, Panda black licorice, that is soft and favorable.
Visiting the Student Development Center was next and I saw museum displays on the Kalevala, Finland's national epic poem, crazy quilt demonstrations, rag rug loom weaving, and authentic Laplander mittens. Nordic knitter named Laura Ricketts stashmuffinsloosethreads.com, had lots to display and she used traditional patterns Her mittens were done in colors of red, white, navy, with traditional Sami patterns. Upstairs was a small War museum on display with clothing, guns, knives, helmets, and military posters, books, and war related articles.
Next was a lecture named, What Everyone Should Know About the Kalevala by Borje Vahamaki, University Of Toronto. The Kalevala is a tradition that was sung orally from person to person, and is consisted of 50 Ruins {50 sections}. The national harp, the Kantala, originally had 5 strings because of the 5 notes of music used in the singing of the Kalevala. The Kalevala has many layers of texture. Myths, Magic, Shaman, Adventure,and Christian poetry.
Next Lecture, Titanic: The Unintended Arrival by Gregory Isola explained the history of the ship builder and that there were 8 second class Finnish passengers on board the Titanic, and 58 3rd class passengers.
There were many more lecture I went to all informative and professional. Because there is a large variety of lectures, music, dance, and film events, everyone's ethnic Finn experience will be different. I also attended an old time lumberjack harmonic music session and a Sami painter documentary ,Solveig: The Life and Artwork of Solveig Arneng Johnson . In the evening it was time to sample the areas beer craft while learning to do a scottish folk dance at the Finnish American Heritage Center, which included Finnish theme museum art work www.finlandia.edu/FAHC. Shopping in the marketplace was fun and I found books, tshirts, and a reindeer crafted necklace.www.crystalcollectreindeer.com
The Festival takes place in many places and there is a shuttle bus that drops you off at any location. Many of the classes that I took were at Michigan Technological University across the bridge in Houghton, Mi. On Thursday I attended a lecture with Lauri Anderson on Writing Memoirs. He is an author of eight books, His first book, Hunting Hemingway's Trout, is the one that I bought in the Tori {marketplace}
The next destination was a lecture of Finnish Midsummer desserts from a Finnish chef, Sirpa Welch. Sirpa serves as an executive chef at the Finnish Consulate in Los Angeles since 1997. Her Rhubarb dessert was a huge hit. But she also added that black licorice ice cream is a food trend {Finland has there own brand, Panda black licorice, that is soft and favorable.
Visiting the Student Development Center was next and I saw museum displays on the Kalevala, Finland's national epic poem, crazy quilt demonstrations, rag rug loom weaving, and authentic Laplander mittens. Nordic knitter named Laura Ricketts stashmuffinsloosethreads.com, had lots to display and she used traditional patterns Her mittens were done in colors of red, white, navy, with traditional Sami patterns. Upstairs was a small War museum on display with clothing, guns, knives, helmets, and military posters, books, and war related articles.
Next was a lecture named, What Everyone Should Know About the Kalevala by Borje Vahamaki, University Of Toronto. The Kalevala is a tradition that was sung orally from person to person, and is consisted of 50 Ruins {50 sections}. The national harp, the Kantala, originally had 5 strings because of the 5 notes of music used in the singing of the Kalevala. The Kalevala has many layers of texture. Myths, Magic, Shaman, Adventure,and Christian poetry.
Next Lecture, Titanic: The Unintended Arrival by Gregory Isola explained the history of the ship builder and that there were 8 second class Finnish passengers on board the Titanic, and 58 3rd class passengers.
There were many more lecture I went to all informative and professional. Because there is a large variety of lectures, music, dance, and film events, everyone's ethnic Finn experience will be different. I also attended an old time lumberjack harmonic music session and a Sami painter documentary ,Solveig: The Life and Artwork of Solveig Arneng Johnson . In the evening it was time to sample the areas beer craft while learning to do a scottish folk dance at the Finnish American Heritage Center, which included Finnish theme museum art work www.finlandia.edu/FAHC. Shopping in the marketplace was fun and I found books, tshirts, and a reindeer crafted necklace.www.crystalcollectreindeer.com
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Dakota Bread
As a baker of bread, I have been on a quest to make a healthy, crunchy, but not too dense loaf of bread.
I came across this recipe years ago, tweaked it and came up with my version. This one has a lot of ingredients, but each one adds to the flavor profile of the bread. It makes one loaf, or I divide it into 3 small mini loaves.
Dakota Bread
1 package of active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water
1/2 cup greek yogurt or cottage cheese
1/4 c. honey
2T. powdered milk
1 egg
2 T. oil
1 tsp. salt
21/4 c. bread flour, divided
1/2 c. whole-wheat flour
1/4 c. wheat germ, toasted
1/4 c. rye flour
1/4 c. long-cooking oats, uncooked
2 T. cornmeal
1 egg white, beaten
2 T. sunflower kernels
Combine yeast and lukewarm water in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes. Then add 1/2 cup of bread flour, stir, and let this sit for 30 minutes. In a separate bowl, blend together yogurt or cottage cheese, honey, egg, oil and salt. Add this to the yeast mixture, blend, then add bread flour, whole wheat flour,wheat germ, rye flour, oatmeal, and powdered milk. This should yield a soft dough, if not add more or less flour or liquid. Knead on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl; cover and let rise for one hour or until double in bulk. Punch dough down. Shape into one round loaf and place in a pie pan coated with non-stick vegetable spray and sprinkle with cornmeal. Cover with greased plastic wrap and let dough rise again until double in bulk. Brush with egg white and sprinkle with sunflower kernels. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes. Cool on a wire rack. makes 6 to 8 servings.
I came across this recipe years ago, tweaked it and came up with my version. This one has a lot of ingredients, but each one adds to the flavor profile of the bread. It makes one loaf, or I divide it into 3 small mini loaves.
Dakota Bread
1 package of active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water
1/2 cup greek yogurt or cottage cheese
1/4 c. honey
2T. powdered milk
1 egg
2 T. oil
1 tsp. salt
21/4 c. bread flour, divided
1/2 c. whole-wheat flour
1/4 c. wheat germ, toasted
1/4 c. rye flour
1/4 c. long-cooking oats, uncooked
2 T. cornmeal
1 egg white, beaten
2 T. sunflower kernels
Combine yeast and lukewarm water in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes. Then add 1/2 cup of bread flour, stir, and let this sit for 30 minutes. In a separate bowl, blend together yogurt or cottage cheese, honey, egg, oil and salt. Add this to the yeast mixture, blend, then add bread flour, whole wheat flour,wheat germ, rye flour, oatmeal, and powdered milk. This should yield a soft dough, if not add more or less flour or liquid. Knead on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl; cover and let rise for one hour or until double in bulk. Punch dough down. Shape into one round loaf and place in a pie pan coated with non-stick vegetable spray and sprinkle with cornmeal. Cover with greased plastic wrap and let dough rise again until double in bulk. Brush with egg white and sprinkle with sunflower kernels. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes. Cool on a wire rack. makes 6 to 8 servings.
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Martha Bag
The Martha Bag
As a small child, I would stand in fascination of the wooden Finnish loom in the basement of my childhood home. So many warp and weft strings, the tall wooden frame, and the colorful balls of recycled clothing cut into strips, stitched together forming a colorful mix of colors. The balls would revel a chuck of red or yellow child's dress, a threadbare blue apron, or a worn out pair of denim farm pants. Everything was re-purposed and up cycled into a new and useful articles. Finnish homes had wood floors, and a hand made quality loom rug would be the center piece of the area.
When I found this free pattern on www.knitty.com under the heading bags and titled Unbiased. I knew that I had to make it, but this time, using my ever growing stash of leftover yarn from other projects. I did add 3 inches to the length of the bag, and then added a bottom so the bag would sit upright. I used a size 8 needle using 2 strands of yarn, just tying one snippet of thread with a square knot.. I lined the bag in a black fabric to give it some stability. Then I place black webbing under the strap for strength. The colors are so bright that they reminded me of those Finnish cotton loom rugs and the design also reminded me of my favorite aunt Martha that was thrifty and a creative designer in fashion.
As a small child, I would stand in fascination of the wooden Finnish loom in the basement of my childhood home. So many warp and weft strings, the tall wooden frame, and the colorful balls of recycled clothing cut into strips, stitched together forming a colorful mix of colors. The balls would revel a chuck of red or yellow child's dress, a threadbare blue apron, or a worn out pair of denim farm pants. Everything was re-purposed and up cycled into a new and useful articles. Finnish homes had wood floors, and a hand made quality loom rug would be the center piece of the area.
Saturday, May 18, 2013
The best nail polish
The best nail polish
In the recent May 2013 Good Housekeeping magazine, there was a published article on The Best Nail Polish, page 62 and 63. Good Housekeeping Research Institute The Test put various nail polishes to the test and then had 2,000 women nationwide applied ,wore, and reported back to the institute. the top choice award went to overall winner Essie Nail Color{$8.00}. This standout pulled top points for shine and was easy to apply and looked shiny and bright. It came off easily with nail polish, and didn't stain the nails. The second runner up for longest-lasting is Maybelline New York Color Show {$4.30}. Volunteers reported that this bargain pick stayed put for an impressive six and a half days on average. The third runner up for quickest drying is OPI nail lacquer {$9}. This is the best drying time. Women loved the classic red shade Big Apple Red, one of the brand's best sellers. The fourth runner up and Most Chip- Proof is Covergirl Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss. {$5.50}In-lab and at-home testers rated this newbie-the only winner with a built-in base and top coat-best chip-defier, and its staying power nearly matched Maybelline's.
A manicure takes time, be sure to file your nails, add cuticle cream, then apply a base coat of Orly Bonder Rubberized Basecoat,{$10}. Apply two thin layers of polish, then a clear top coat of polish.
To remove fingernail polish, I like Sally Hansen, Maximum strength Polish Remover. It is super fast, and doesn't tend to dry out nails.
In the recent May 2013 Good Housekeeping magazine, there was a published article on The Best Nail Polish, page 62 and 63. Good Housekeeping Research Institute The Test put various nail polishes to the test and then had 2,000 women nationwide applied ,wore, and reported back to the institute. the top choice award went to overall winner Essie Nail Color{$8.00}. This standout pulled top points for shine and was easy to apply and looked shiny and bright. It came off easily with nail polish, and didn't stain the nails. The second runner up for longest-lasting is Maybelline New York Color Show {$4.30}. Volunteers reported that this bargain pick stayed put for an impressive six and a half days on average. The third runner up for quickest drying is OPI nail lacquer {$9}. This is the best drying time. Women loved the classic red shade Big Apple Red, one of the brand's best sellers. The fourth runner up and Most Chip- Proof is Covergirl Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss. {$5.50}In-lab and at-home testers rated this newbie-the only winner with a built-in base and top coat-best chip-defier, and its staying power nearly matched Maybelline's.
To remove fingernail polish, I like Sally Hansen, Maximum strength Polish Remover. It is super fast, and doesn't tend to dry out nails.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
McCalls Summer Tops
McCall's Summer Tops
I highly recommend McCall's 6566 sewing pattern. It is easy for a beginner with a loose fitting pullover with capped sleeves. I used View C, with a fluid hot pink burnout rayon. I did adjust the hem so it was a high, low back. It will be roomy, so I can layer another top underneath.
The second top View D,the body of the garment is a crinkle soft knit in cream, with the front and back insets with a double layer of cream lace, then cream netting.I felt that the cream lace alone, was too open, and I think the netting gives it a softer dimension. This is also made larger, so I can place a cami or tank underneath for a pop of color.
I highly recommend McCall's 6566 sewing pattern. It is easy for a beginner with a loose fitting pullover with capped sleeves. I used View C, with a fluid hot pink burnout rayon. I did adjust the hem so it was a high, low back. It will be roomy, so I can layer another top underneath.The second top View D,the body of the garment is a crinkle soft knit in cream, with the front and back insets with a double layer of cream lace, then cream netting.I felt that the cream lace alone, was too open, and I think the netting gives it a softer dimension. This is also made larger, so I can place a cami or tank underneath for a pop of color.
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Lumene Skin Products
Lumene Skin Care Products
I have been a fan of the Lumene Skin Care products originally from Finland for a long time. The Finnish people are great environmentalists, and tend to be purist,like things simple, and are thrifty. Anything a Finn builds or handcrafts, quality is of the highest importance. Masks made of Arctic Peat Moss, face creams with Buckthorn, and Arctic Cloudberry, . A number of years ago, they came out with a blueberry based mascara. I can't seem to find it in the market, perhaps, they discontinued it. These products can be purchased at Walgreens,Ulta, CVS and other discount stores, at an inexpensive price.
I have been a fan of the Lumene Skin Care products originally from Finland for a long time. The Finnish people are great environmentalists, and tend to be purist,like things simple, and are thrifty. Anything a Finn builds or handcrafts, quality is of the highest importance. Masks made of Arctic Peat Moss, face creams with Buckthorn, and Arctic Cloudberry, . A number of years ago, they came out with a blueberry based mascara. I can't seem to find it in the market, perhaps, they discontinued it. These products can be purchased at Walgreens,Ulta, CVS and other discount stores, at an inexpensive price.
I use the Arctic Touch Deep Cleansing Peat Mask about once a week.
About once a month I use the Gentle Exfoliating Cream.
In the morning on a clean face I apply Lumeme Age-Defying and Repairing Serum, usually around the fine lines at the corners of my eyes.
I use the Premium Beauty with Nourishing Arctic Sea Buckthorn SPF15
as a moisturizer base.
I apply the Vitamin C++ Illuminating Anti-age BB Cream with Arctic Cloudberry SPF20.
At night, after a cleansing wash, I apply Vitamin C++ Nourishing Night Care
Weekender hat
Weekender hat.. a brimmed Knit Hat
I have been loving this hat pattern. Its from the book called Knitted Accessories by Claire Crompton.
The shaping in this dressed-down casual cap is achieved by knitting each section, and their are eight separate
pieces that get sewn together at the end.Once the hat is sewn, then cast on for the brim. I used a acrylic wool blend. The third hat I'm working on and its a blend of cream and gray finger weight yarns...This pattern is suitable for just about all types of yarn. I think I want to make the fourth one in cotton yarn...
I have been loving this hat pattern. Its from the book called Knitted Accessories by Claire Crompton.
The shaping in this dressed-down casual cap is achieved by knitting each section, and their are eight separate
pieces that get sewn together at the end.Once the hat is sewn, then cast on for the brim. I used a acrylic wool blend. The third hat I'm working on and its a blend of cream and gray finger weight yarns...This pattern is suitable for just about all types of yarn. I think I want to make the fourth one in cotton yarn...
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Sweatshirt Redone
There are generic brand sweatshirts at discount stores, like Walmart or Target, or there are designer brands with some trendy details...Just redo a sweatshirt to update it with lower necklines, updated high low crop version, and add some design details like below...
I first started with reversing the right side, and now the wrong fuzzy side is going to be the right side of the fabric. Then remove the bottom ribbing. Save it.Half of it will be used for the new neckline trim, and the rest will be the smaller version on the bottom.
Next, decide if you want a u neck, v neck or a off the shoulder slouchy version. The best way to decide is to go into our existing closet and decide which neckline is the most flattering. Use this neckline as the pattern. A simple way to draft the new cut opening is to place the sweatshirt on the hanger, place the "pattern favorite" shirt on top of the sweatshirt, and the hanger is underneath the two. Make sure the top shoulder seams are all touching, the openings are center, and front and back of the necklines are centered. Use pins to mark the sweatshirt every few inches. Then disassemble the entire thing, realign the sweatshirted pinned and make sure right and left sides,front and back are asymetrical. Then cut the new neckline hole.
For the bottom, now this is the raw edge , because you have cut away the bottom ribbing. Mark where you want the center front to hit. Use your belly button as a point, and decide. I cut mine 11/2 inches. then I layed the sweatshirt on a flat surface and lined up the center side seams{usually there is no actual center seam, just a trace of a fold line}. then use a slight angel cut to achieve the slight high low back effect. this will be more subtle than the dramatic high lows on skirts, but in theory its the same technique. Now on to the bottom ribbing. Cut the big circle on the fold, so you have two. One will go back on the bottom, refolded and twice as small as the origianal width. The other ribbing circle will be cut down in length to be placed back on our new neckline. The piece of ribbing should be 5/8th of the length of the fabric. Make a seam. Then fold right sides together and align correctly spaced on the new neckline. If its any smaller, the ribbing tends to pucker up. Place the ribbing like anyother ribbing that you have done, check the sewing guide paper foldout with any project.
Because I use the wrong side of the fabric as the new right side, I had a printed label right on the fabric. so I used a piece of fabric, cut as a triangle to cover up the label. See first picture. Now topstich, I used the zigzag stitch on my machine, the ribbing down on the new neckline and the new high low bottom edge on the fabric side. This is very important, to keep the ribbing laying flat. Wow!...Your done...
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Knitted e-reader bag
My Knitted E-reader Bag
This project goes over a leather kindle touch case.
In my stash of yarn, I have a lot of blues and greens. Of course, I like the color blue..
I am trying to design a project that would use up some extra yarn. The project turned up beautiful. I used two strands of yarn,cast on 22 stitches and mixed in various colors of yarn, switching them out every 4th row...I used size 8 needles. {But please check your gauge, as results could vary }Then I used a knit/purl for the base, then used a seed stitch for the top flap.
The project has a nice feel for it, and I used a unique button from my stash..
This project goes over a leather kindle touch case.
In my stash of yarn, I have a lot of blues and greens. Of course, I like the color blue..
I am trying to design a project that would use up some extra yarn. The project turned up beautiful. I used two strands of yarn,cast on 22 stitches and mixed in various colors of yarn, switching them out every 4th row...I used size 8 needles. {But please check your gauge, as results could vary }Then I used a knit/purl for the base, then used a seed stitch for the top flap.
The project has a nice feel for it, and I used a unique button from my stash..
Saturday, March 30, 2013
Finnish Cardamom Bread
Finnish Cardamom Bread
7 whole cardamom pods
2 cups milk
1 package active dry yeast
2 eggs
3/4 c. sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 tsp. salt
6 1/2 to 7 cups all purpose flour, divided
For glaze:
1 egg, beaten
sliced almonds
Final second glaze when loaves are cooled:
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 tsp. vanilla flavoring
1/2 to 1 T. coffee to make a sugar drizzle
Crack open cadamom pods and heat in a small pan for several minutes. Grind or pound seeds and set aside. Heat milk to lukewarm. Add yeast and stir until dissolved. Let sit for 5 minutes. Add a small amount of flour about 1/2 cup, stir into yeast water and let that sit in a warm spot for 30 minutes. In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs and sugar until foamy. Add milk, cardamom and 11/2 c. flour. Beat at medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and elastic. Stir in softened butter, salt, and enough flour to make dough stiff enough to knead. Knead on floured surface until smooth and satiny, about 5 to 10 minute. Place in a greased bowl, turning to grease top. Cover, let rise in a warm place until light and doubled in size. . On a floured surface divide dough into three parts. Divide each third into three parts. Form each part into a strip 16 inches long. Braid three together, sealing ends. Repeat for remaining 2 loaves. Place on greased cookie sheets. Cover loosely and let rise about 30 minutes until less than doubled in size. Brush loaves with beaten egg;sprinkle with almons and sugar. Bake at 375 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Makes 3 loaves.
7 whole cardamom pods
2 cups milk
1 package active dry yeast
2 eggs
3/4 c. sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 tsp. salt
6 1/2 to 7 cups all purpose flour, divided
For glaze:
1 egg, beaten
sliced almonds
Final second glaze when loaves are cooled:
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 tsp. vanilla flavoring
1/2 to 1 T. coffee to make a sugar drizzle
Crack open cadamom pods and heat in a small pan for several minutes. Grind or pound seeds and set aside. Heat milk to lukewarm. Add yeast and stir until dissolved. Let sit for 5 minutes. Add a small amount of flour about 1/2 cup, stir into yeast water and let that sit in a warm spot for 30 minutes. In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs and sugar until foamy. Add milk, cardamom and 11/2 c. flour. Beat at medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and elastic. Stir in softened butter, salt, and enough flour to make dough stiff enough to knead. Knead on floured surface until smooth and satiny, about 5 to 10 minute. Place in a greased bowl, turning to grease top. Cover, let rise in a warm place until light and doubled in size. . On a floured surface divide dough into three parts. Divide each third into three parts. Form each part into a strip 16 inches long. Braid three together, sealing ends. Repeat for remaining 2 loaves. Place on greased cookie sheets. Cover loosely and let rise about 30 minutes until less than doubled in size. Brush loaves with beaten egg;sprinkle with almons and sugar. Bake at 375 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Makes 3 loaves.
Here is one loave, but I already divided it into 3 sections, some to freeze and some to give away. I do not recommend using store bought canister cardamom. Most of the flavor has faded.
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Candy Girl Hot Pattern
This project is a solution to purse organization. The pattern is a free download with registration at a pattern site called www.hotpatterns.com . The pattern is available as a free download, print it out on your printer and assemble the pieces. It is a simple box shape construction with multiple pockets to hold all your gear. I made my first one from some purple iridescent poly in my stash pile, and some recycled white webbing.
It measures about 11.5/29 cm long, 7"/17cm high and 3.5"/9cm deep. Then when you want to change purses, take it out of one purse, and place it in the next. I'm wondering how I managed without one!..And Hot patterns has other fabulous purse patterns to check out!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)