A Rather Grey View

I love all things Austen. And even though the blog title reference comes from the 2005 film, not the book. The quote popped right into my head when I started writing.
Things have been a little slow on the craft front for me. Between work, uni and family, life has been beyond stressful. I haven't gotten around to photographing any of my current work, but I'll do a proper update later. I just feel like getting some of this stress off my chest.

Closing Walls and Ticking Clocks

My, my. Time really flies, doesn't it? I can't believe that this is my first post of the new year. Not that I have much to say. It has been a crazy last couple of weeks. I've barely had time for anything remotely enjoyable. That's not to say my work isn't interesting. But it has been completely consuming. And exhausting. And a little mind numbing by the end of each day.

But I don't want to discuss work, I'm feeling overwhelmed just thinking about it. On to bigger and brighter things! In spite of the craziness that is my life right now, I have managed to accomplish a bit in the way of my projects.

So here's a little bit of a progress report (with pictures!):

Striped Tunic

As previously mentioned, I finished one of the tunics, but I didn't get the chance to take some photos of it before I gave it away. This is the second one I've been working on though. The only difference is the stripe colour. Hopefully I'll have a chance to take some photos of this one when it's finished and blocked before I have to wrap it up.

Baubles, Bangles and Bright Shiny Things

I've been stitching like crazy lately trying to finish those tunics for my cousins. I found a pattern to give me approximate sizing and the number of stitches and then I've just gone with my gut. It looks pretty cute so far, but I'm worried the size will be too small. Even though I made a gauge swatch and measured everything out, it still doesn't seem quite right. I'll finish it first before I freak out though. And if it doesn't fit, there are plenty of other people I know who have babies.

I also decided what I wanted to make for christmas for my family. I usually bake them all something sweet, but this year I decided to make something less naughty. Among my Pinterest travels I came across theses crocheted baubles which I thought were adorable.

I'd like to make at least one for each of the separate families, maybe one each if I have time. I'll see how I go.

I found a few different designs while I was searching and some beautiful colourful baubles from Woolies.

Baubles from Woolies

Pattyo's Baubles via Circle of Crafters

HandiArt's Baubles

HandiArt has so many different designs, and those ones are for sale.

I found a great looking tutorial for them too on snovej.com. Marina makes it look so simple but effective. I'm so excited to try them.They should be a super quick and fun project. And it might deplete my yarn stash a touch!