​Meet the newest kit now listed in my Etsy shop!
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The weaving kit, the third in my series of Maker Kits for Modern Kids, comes with everything you need (except scissors and a bit of tape) to make at least three beautiful woven projects.  The instruction booklet includes photographs illustrating the processes for basic weaving as well as tapestry weaving.  Plus, you'll get a package of wood beads that I dyed by hand in coordinating colors.  The version listed in my shop is the mini version (with a loom measuring 3.5" x 6"), with the large version (with a loom measuring 6" x 10") to be listed soon.
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Every kit comes packaged in a sturdy cardboard box.  And, because details are so important to me, I added a special wrap closure with yarn and wood buttons to keep the lid secure so the pieces never fall out.​

​With each successive Maker Kit for Modern Kids, I have increased the earth-friendliness of the materials.  Everything in this kit, from the box to the materials inside, is reusable, recyclable, or biodegradable.  Even the "plastic" bag with beads is made from plants.  I want to continue this theme with my next kits as well.  (I have a really fun kit in the pipeline that I can't wait to share.)

​If you'd like to purchase a weaving kit for yourself or as a gift, please visit my Etsy shop and I'll mail it out right away.  Thanks for your support!

​Okay, so I sort of forgot to post here about my newest EPP pattern.  I put it in my newsletter (sign up if you want to know about pattern releases before anyone else!), but it slipped my mind here.  “Squared Off” is inspired by a traditional tile motif of square blocks rotated to an angle and offset with small squares.  The design includes two basic shapes (a kite and a square) that are easy enough for beginners and complex enough for more seasoned stitchers to enjoy the challenge of creating intricate “fussy cut” designs.  

The pattern includes a coloring page to test out your ideas, templates that can be re-sized depending on your chosen fabric, instructions for making a cutting template, and step-by-step instructions on how to assemble the pieces.  Every step (or series of steps) includes a picture to help you see how it all comes together.  I've also included a short list of resources to help you get started with English Paper Piecing (or to improve your technique).  The final section of the pattern shows alternate design ideas that use the same layout, creating a new look through fabric selection and placement.  It's really a thousand designs in one if you let your imagination take over.

I've done my utmost to make the pattern and instructions as comprehensive as possible, and I think you'll enjoy the process of making the "Squared Off" pattern your own.  I look forward to seeing your projects.  If you post something, be sure to use #SquaredOffPattern or tag me on Instagram (@carleybiblin) so I can see.  And check out the hashtag to see what people have already made using this pattern.

You can buy the "Squared Off" pattern here.  I've already sold one, and I can't wait to see what she does with it!

And you can find my other pattern, "Delightful Diamond Plate," here.

I had my first ever public craft sale yesterday.  It was a fairly small event at a local private school and lasted only three hours, but I think it was the perfect introduction into selling face to face.  It was way less stress and I was able to focus on learning from the experience.  For anyone thinking about getting into craft fairs, here are a few tips for you.

• Apply early.  I discovered some holiday craft markets in my area that have application deadlines in August.  So do your research, get on the mailing lists, and mark your calendar for next year.
• Know when to stop making.  I was sewing right up until the morning of the event.  I'm glad I did because one of the items I finished sold.  That being said, I would also have liked a chance to relax while packing everything up and prepping myself.  If you are able, give yourself some time rather than stressing about finishing one more thing.
• Make presentation a priority.  Use colorful fabric, beautiful baskets, and display racks that accentuate your wares.  If some of your items are decorative, set up a little scene that gives people an idea how to use or display it.
• Arrange your items with buyers in mind.  Think about what people are most likely to buy and put those items front and center.  Don't make them search for what they want.  Let them find it and get to the sale before they move on.  You may only have one chance to catch their eye.  And don't be afraid to do a little rearranging if you notice an item is more popular than you thought it would be.
• Approach or be approachable.  It's usually easier to sit behind your table and pretend that your stuff will do all the work of calling people over to buy.  But, the truth is, people are more likely to come to you if you look like someone they can talk to.  Stand up, make eye contact, smile, say hello.  Even if you are too shy to approach people, your manner will let them know that you are approachable.
• Chat with other sellers.  It's great to make connections within the crafting and making community.  You are likely to see many of the same people at different events, so get to know them.  Other sellers can be a wealth of information.  Talking to them will help you learn how to succeed.  They can also provide you with a list of other events you can attend as a seller.

Wow!  That was a lot to learn my first time out, but I'm so glad I did it.  I'm already excited about the possibility of attending another event to sell.  Have you ever attended a craft market as a seller?  Are there any tips you found particularly helpful?
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A month ago I was invited to have a booth at a winter festival.  I almost declined because I've never done one before, but then I thought "If I never do one because I've never done one, then I'll never do one."  After all, you gotta start doing something do learn how to do it.  And so I said yes.  I immediately started planning what to make and what to bring from my current inventory in  my shop.  I'll be taking some of my diamond crocheted garland, a few mouse pincushions, and my hand embroidered sheep softie.  I'm also making reversible chalkboard placemats, quilted chalkboard coasters, sewing kits for kids, tree softies, and little wood people.  Even though I'm making all this to sell at the festival, I'll be sure to list a few in my shop in the next week or two.  In the meantime, I'll be sewing up a storm and crossing my fingers that I'll have enough stock and variety to make it all worth it.