The 2014 Designer Blog Tour in honor of National Crochet Month continues today with a visit to crochet designer Gwen Blakley-Kinsler.
Gwen Blakley Kinsler, Founder and Past President of the Crochet Guild of America, is a writer, designer and teacher who is committed to sharing her passion for crochet with everyone. Her latest book, The Fine Art of Crochet – Innovative Works by 20 Contemporary Artists, was published in June 2013. Gwen believes that crochet art both amazes and astounds even the most seasoned crocheters, and serves to change stereotypical perceptions about the craft. When not writing, Gwen keeps busy covering her world in crochet, one stitch at a time!
National Crochet Month Plans
Gwen has much to celebrate this month. She is so proud of her new book, The Fine Art of Crochet. You can sign up with your email to “follow” her blog (at the right of the blog). Let her know in the comments section that you have done so. You will then be entered into a drawing by random number selection to win a copy. You must enter by March 31 at midnight.
Keep up with Gwen online:
Blog: http://crochetqueen-royalramblings.blogspot.com
Ravelry group: http://www.ravelry.com/groups/cro-kween-designs
Ravelry designer page: http://www.ravelry.com/designers/gwen-blakley-kinsler-2
Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/CrochetKweenDesigns
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/crochetkween
On CGOA:
Gwen is a professional member of CGOA (Crochet Guild of America), and she has this to share about her CGOA experience:
As Founder of the CGOA, I obviously have a real sense of pride about “our” organization. It goes without saying that I enjoy all the wonderful benefits of CGOA membership especially the comaraderie with so many others with the same level of crochet passion which I have. I believe that the chapters are the backbone of the organization and I wish that more people would volunteer to start a chapter in their own local area. It is not that hard to get a group growing and can start as simply as coffee and crochet for two! Being able to meet monthy or even weekly with like-minded crocheters is well worth the effort. I am so proud of my own Northern IL Chapter which is also celebrating its twentieth anniversary in June 2014.
Gwen’s Designs
We’d like to highlight two of Gwen’s designs, just to give you a sneak peek at her work.
Tote from the Himalaya Series: Drawn to the rich colors and primitive texture of Tibet, a silk yarn spun from remnants of recycled saris, I designed this bag large enough to hold your favorite take-along needlework project. The asymmetric flap is edged with a series of stepped notches, shaped with simple decreases and the study wide strap feels comfortable over the shoulder. Available for $5.00.
Tank Top from the Himalaya Series: The gorgeous color way of Himalaya Tibet makes this a versatile top to add zest to any outfit! Available for $6.00
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Blog Tour Schedule
Schedule of all stops
Halos of Hope Hat Drive/Fundraiser
Halos of Hope: Hat Collection/Donation Info
Please click the link above for information on making “On Safari” animal-themed hats for children undergoing cancer treatment.