How Antique Indian Beadwork Is Born

In 1675 or thereabouts, settlers from Europe came to the Americas with brightly colored beads made of glass to trade with the Native Americans. Since the traders actually carried these beads to Indian villages on ponies, these beads found in antique Indian beadwork are often called pony beads. For the most part, these beads were blue, but others were white and even a brownish red. That is why much of the antique Indian beadwork from this period is so predominantly blue. And, this type of beadwork remained popular until the middle of the 19th century, when smaller beads began to become more plentiful and fashionable. Indeed, over time, Native American collectibles, from moccasins to shirts, leggings to headbands, all seem to have some sort of beadwork worked into them. For a good number of years, Native Americans used sinew as a needle and thread to make their beaded Native American collectibles. Sinew is dried tendon from large game like an elk or deer.

The Varieties Of Antique Indian Beadwork

There are three main kinds of Indian beadwork found in Native American collectibles. These include:

The Overlay or Spot Stitching Variety

This particular type of antique Indian beadwork has many curves and flowers.

Lazy Stitch

Western Native Americans used this geometric style more commonly than other tribes.

The Loom Style

The Ojibway Native American tribe is credited with originating this style of beading. As time went on, more tribes adopted it as well. The loom used in this beadwork was also made to be portable and easy to migrate with. Made with just a few pieces of flat wood and a sinew, this loom looked a lot like a bow.

Still Popular Today

Since the styles are so coveted, modern hobbyists and entrepreneurs and even Indians themselves are still creating items in the antique Indian beadwork styles as a way to make a living. Native American collectibles are intrinsically linked with antique Indian beadwork and no collection is complete without some.

Visit this website for Native American Collectibles.

Loom knitting is actually an old craft form. A new interest has arisen in loom knitting as a hobby recently. Loom Knitting has had a new upsurge of interest with the introduction of the Knifty Knitters. The company which produces the Knifty Knitter is Provocraft.

The Knifty Knitter is a low cost way to start loom knitting. Knifty Knitters are sold at most stores that carry craft supplies. Many sites on the internet also sell the Knifty Knitters.

Knifty Knitters come in different types ,the round looms can be purchased singly or in a set of various sizes. The long looms which are known as knitting boards can be purchased the same way. Many small projects can be made on the small flower loom.

I discovered loom knitting when I saw a demonstration at Joann Fabrics, the lady doing the demo showed the Knifty Knitters and a number of items she had created with them. She had a lovely shawl to match her daughter’s prom gown and matching flip flops she had embellished with edging made on the Knifty knitter. A number of other loom knitted projects were also available to show the items that can be created on the Knifty Knitters.

The demo sold me on a new hobby, loom knitting here I come. The round looms were my first loom purchase. The best project to start with is a hat. Looming a hat with the Knifty Knitters takes about two hours ,it is a quick evening project.

It is simple to start out loom knitting all you need is the loom and two skeins of yarn and you are ready to go. A good choice for one of the skeins is a contrasting yarn. Try using an eyelash or other specialty yarn for a special effect on your project. Once you find how easy it is to use your Knifty Knitter you will move on to bigger and more complicated projects.

Once you are ready to make bigger projects, there are several books with great patterns for loom knitting. The internet offers lots of resources for patterns and advice, and Provocraft has patterns and tips on their web site.

I am glad I happened upon the Knifty Knitter demonstration, loom knitting has become one of the crafts I like to do most.

Get started with the Knifty Knitter now at http://www.funhobbyvideos.com/. They have all kinds of fun hobby and craft videos.

Knitting with looms is actually an old craft. You may have also heard of knitting looms being referred to as knitting boards. This old craft has been growing in popularity quite a bit over recent years. Provo Craft releasing their knitting loom the Knifty Knitter is the reason for this.

Traditional needle knitting has taken a back seat to loom knitting for many folks. There are actually several reasons why. Someone can loom knit a great deal faster than most needle knitters. Another factor is just how simple it is to loom knit. With the advent of the Knifty knitter this hobby became much more affordable.

Loom knitting is also much better for those with arthritis in their hands. Loom knitting has allowed those people, who could no longer use knitting needles, to once again knit wonderful projects. To make it even easier on the hands there is the Knifty Knitter weaving tool.

Loom knitting is much simpler than needle knitting. Some people just cannot master needle knitting. After watching a few minute loom knitting video tutorial those same people can be knitting on a Knifty Knitter.

Some traditional needle knitters feel that loom knitting is not true knitting. I’m not sure why they care. Some very nice projects can be knit on looms. It is possible to knit any stitch on a Knifty Knitter than can be knit with needles. Those new to loom knitting will want to stick with the simple stitches at first like the twist knit. Fortunately with the Internet there are many loom knitting tutorial videos that walk you through even the most intricate of stitches.

Knifty Knitters can be used to knit much more than hats. I’ve known a number of people who love their Knifty knitter that have never made it past making hats. With the right loom knitting patterns it is possible to make sweaters, shawls, slippers, socks you name it.

Are you in the market for a new fun hobby? You should try out loom knitting. Get looming now and you’ll be ready when the holidays roll around. Imagine how much your family will appreciate getting handmade gifts this year. Order a set of Knifty Knitters either the round looms or the long looms or both if you’re ambitious. Then get some yarn and you are ready to loom knit. I would also recommend that you find a web site that has a selection of loom knitting tutorial videos. The instructions supplied with the Knifty knitter are not the greatest. Get your hook out start ewrapping along with the videos and you will be well on your way to loom knitting some beautiful projects.

For a great selection of loom knitting tutorials check out the Knifty Knitter page at http://www.funhobbyvideos.com/. There are also other fun hobbies featured there.

Loom knitting has been around for quite a long time. Knitting rake is another term used to refer to certain knitting looms. In recent years there has been a resurgence of loom knitting. Provo Craft releasing their knitting loom the Knifty Knitter is the reason for this.

Many people prefer knitting on a loom to traditional knitting with needles. There are a couple of reasons for this. One of the factors is speed. It is amazing just how fast you can knit a project with a loom. Ease of use is another reason people choose to knit with looms. Since the creation of the Knifty knitter cost is also a reason many people get involved with this fun and easy craft.

For those unfortunate enough to have arthritis or other problems with their hands loom knitting is ideal. People whose hands would no longer allow them to knit with needles are now able to knit beautiful projects once again. To make it even easier on the hands there is the Knifty Knitter weaving tool.

Loom knitting is much simpler than needle knitting. Needle knitting is something that some people just have trouble learning. Those same people can be knitting on a Knifty knitter within minutes.

Some traditional needle knitters feel that loom knitting is not true knitting. There actually a bit misguided. It is possible to knit any stitch on a Knifty Knitter than can be knit with needles. Those new to loom knitting will want to stick with the simple stitches at first like the twist knit. The easiest way to learn loom knitting is through video. There are great loom knitting tutorial videos all over the web.

Knifty knitters are not just about hats. My aunt loves her Knifty Knitters yet she has never knit anything other than hats. You can knit sweaters shawls you name it. Al you really need are some loom knitting patterns. Some people even design their own projects.

If you have been thinking about picking up a new craft I recommend loom knitting. Get looming now and you’ll be ready when the holidays roll around. Imagine how much your family will appreciate getting handmade gifts this year. Order a set of Knifty Knitters either the round looms or the long looms or both if you’re ambitious. Then get some yarn and you are ready to loom knit. The only other thing that I would recommend are loom knitting tutorial videos. Find a website that has a good selection of these and you are golden. The instruction manual is a definite weak point for the Knifty Knitter. These video will have you loom knitting like a pro in no time.

Find the loom knitting tutorial videos and other fun hobby videos at http://www.funhobbyvideos.com/. There is a whole section dedicated to the Knifty Knitter.

Rocking horse plans are much sought after and are also available just as easily. You can find many book stores carrying wood working project designs and almost all of them will have the popular rocking horse plans. It seems to be one of the most important basic projects that a skillful wood practitioner will definitely need to master. The internet is another source where you can avail a large plethora of rocking horse plans and designs.

Rocking horse plans are available in all varieties beginning from the basic simple model to more complicated design. Depending on your skill level you can either attempt a simple pony or a grand stallion. Plans are also available for a team of rocking horses that rocks in pairs. You should select the one that matches your skill set. Also keep in mind the age of the intended rider as rocking horses should accommodate the size of the player. Some conversions in measurements will definitely be required if your plan’s measurements vary greatly to the child’s appropriate size.

Once you have narrowed in on your plan, you can get to work on the tools and materials needed. Pine is the most cost effective one and is more popular than maple or oak wood. Finally color your horse bright to make him appealing and attractive to the kids.

There is no need to get disheartened if your labor did not produce the enchanting pony you hoped for. All you need to do is purchase a rocking horse kit from the market. These kits include all the frames and pieces in a ready to fix stage and come with detailed instructions in assembling them. The kit includes all the pieces needed to complete your little pony whereas the rocking horse plans will contain detailed instructions in assembling these pieces to turn them into the perfect rocking horse.

Are you interested? Here’s the details for rocking horse plans and also wooden motorcycle rocking horse plans

Today rocking horse plans are available in plenty all over. You can find many book stores carrying wood working project designs and almost all of them will have the popular rocking horse plans. Its inclusion in such books indicates its level of popularity and demand. The internet is another source where you can avail a large plethora of rocking horse plans and designs.

Rocking horse plans are available in all varieties beginning from the basic simple model to more complicated design. So you can either choose to work on a knight’s stallion or on a simple circus horse. Plans are also available for a team of rocking horses that rocks in pairs. You should select the one that matches your skill set. Also keep in mind the age of the intended rider as rocking horses should accommodate the size of the player. Some conversions in measurements will definitely be required if your plan’s measurements vary greatly to the child’s appropriate size.

After selecting your perfect rocking horse plan start collecting the material needed. Pine is the most cost effective one and is more popular than maple or oak wood. Paint and varnishes are the final touches that will be needed to complete your rocking horse.

There is no need to get disheartened if your labor did not produce the enchanting pony you hoped for. In such cases there is no need to worry as when all else fails, rocking horse kits come to the rescue. These kits include all the frames and pieces in a ready to fix stage and come with detailed instructions in assembling them. Just follow the instructions verbatim and you will see rocking horse emerge from the pieces of wood and frames enabling you to take credit for the perfect rocking horse built by your very own hands.

Are you interested? Here’s the details for wooden rocking horse plans and also motorcycle rocking horse plans

But, the fact of the matter is, there’s more than one way to use a pumpkin!

During October, pumpkins are abundant. Sometimes, they seem to be too abundant. And it’s not uncommon to see excess pumpkins cast aside or left to rot after Halloween. But, with a little bit of innovation, there’s really no need to let the extras go to waste.

The following are just a few of the great uses for pumpkins:

1. Pumpkins in Crafts – If you’re an experienced craftsman or a devout hobbyist, you might try some more creative and advanced uses of pumpkins. You can make pumpkin leather like the American Indians did, or just settle with a simple pumpkin bird house.
2. Pumpkins for the Skin – Pumpkins contain anti-oxidants and alpha-hydroxy, which are said to be good for the skin. You can use pumpkin peels as a facial, to combat aging or other skin problems.
3. Pumpkin for Pets – Mashed pumpkin is a well-known remedy for digestive trouble in dogs. It can be used to combat weight gain or diarrhea, and for resistance to infections. It is also said to be good for a dog
   ]]> http://www.scrapbooking-info.com/scrapbook-organization/the-top-10-different-uses-for-pumpkins/feed/ 0 http://www.scrapbooking-info.com/scrapbook-organization/10-excellent-ways-to-use-pumpkins/ http://www.scrapbooking-info.com/scrapbook-organization/10-excellent-ways-to-use-pumpkins/#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:48:53 +0000 skwriter http://www.scrapbooking-info.com/scrapbook-organization/10-excellent-ways-to-use-pumpkins/ When we think pumpkins, we think Halloween, Jack-O-Lanterns, pumpkin pie, and Thanksgiving.

   But, factually, there are many ways to use a pumpkin!

   During October, pumpkins . Sometimes, they are too abundant. And it’s not uncommon to see excess pumpkins cast aside or left to rot after Halloween, but there’s really no need to let the extras go to waste.

   The following are just a few of the great uses for pumpkins:

   1. Pumpkins in Recipes

   As food, pumpkins are low in calories, yet high in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, protein, and potassium. your favorite cookbook and search for recipes containing pumpkin.

   Pumpkin breads, pies, and are favorites, but you can probably find plenty of others. As an impromptu house guest in Paris, I was once served an incredible pumpkin soup (though I never completed my search for ). There are more exotic recipes to try as well – pumpkin juice, pumpkin ice cream, and even fried pumpkin.

   2. Pumpkin Seeds

   Also called “pepitas,” pumpkin seeds are known to be highly nutritious, and are used in weight-loss diets. They provide fiber, healthy fats, and protein, as well as minerals such as magnesium, manganese, zinc, iron, and copper. They are also known to strengthen the immune system, and to be good for people with high cholesterol.

   Roasted pumpkin seeds make excellent between-meals snacks, can be sprinkled over a holiday squash soup, and are a favorite in Mexican cooking. Candied pumpkin seeds are for parties as well – and even children might accept them among their Halloween candy.

   3. Pumpkins for Pets

   Mashed pumpkin is a great remedy for digestive trouble in dogs. It can be used to combat weight gain or diarrhea, and for resistance to infections. It’s also said to be good for a dog’s night vision and general health.

   Simply add a few of cooked, mashed pumpkin to dog’s food. (Important: it must be pure mashed pumpkin, not a mix!) For instructions on how to create your own mashed pumpkin, see point #4 below.

   Cats might like pumpkin as well, and it can be used to help cats with similar digestive troubles, as well as hairballs.

   Remember, if your pet is sick, take him to the vet! ask your vet about using pumpkin for a home remedy.

   4. Pumpkins for Later

   more pumpkins than you know what to do with, you can save them for later use in recipes and for winter holidays.

   There are several ways to create pumpkin puree which can be frozen for later. The following are three preparation methods:

   1. Baking – Cut the pumpkin into two halves, place it on a baking sheet with the flat side down{}, and bake it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, for about an hour, or until it is tender when tested with a fork.

   2. Microwave – Follow the same procedure as above, but instead of placing the pumpkin in an oven, microwave it on high for about 15 minutes, or until it is tender.

   3. Boiling – Cut the pumpkin into large chunks and then rinse. Then, place the chunks cover with water (fully immersing the pumpkins, plus one inch of water on top), and boil until tender.

   After you’ve one of the methods above to soften the pumpkin, cool it off, peel it, and mash it in a food processor. You can also use a potato masher .

   Then, simply seal the puree into zip lock bags, or whatever is convenient, and freeze it for for the winter. The puree can be used as a substitute for canned pumpkin, in any recipe.

   5. Pumpkins as Dishes

   You can clean a pumpkin well, cut it in half, and dry it for use as a serving bowl or a flower vase. You can also use a halved pumpkin to cook or bake other foods in.

   6. Pumpkins for the Skin

   Pumpkins contain anti-oxidants and alpha-hydroxy, which are said to be good for the skin. You can use pumpkin peels as facials, to combat aging or other skin problems.

   7. Pumpkins for Children and Games

   You can use pumpkins in children’s contests. If your kids are too little to start carving yet, they can also decorate pumpkins with markers or paint – or even make a pumpkin collage. Another use of pumpkins is as targets for archery practice.

   But we definitely don’t recommend any games that involve throwing pumpkins, nor using them as substitutes for soccer balls.

   Possibly even better, how about a cross between a Jack-O-Lantern, a Snow Man, and a Scare Crow? Your kids might have a great time making a Pumpkin Man – and it’s much better for them than watching TV.

   8. Pumpkins as Ornaments

   Pumpkins, gourds, and squash can be used to create candle holders, Thanksgiving centerpieces, and other ornaments.

   9. Musical Pumpkins

   Yes, that’s right, pumpkins make musical instruments as well. Or, at least they can if you know how to make (and play) them. You can find a variety of ideas for instruments that can be made from gourds, squashes, and pumpkins. Although many musical instruments are made from gourds, one can easily imagine how a large or small pumpkin would do just as well in cases.

   10. Pumpkins in Crafts

   If you’re an experienced craftsman or a devout hobbyist, you might try some more advanced and creative uses of pumpkins. You can make pumpkin leather like the American Indians did, or with a simple pumpkin bird house.

   As you can see, there’s really no need for pumpkins to go to waste, either before Halloween or afterwards.

   During economic recessions, it’s not uncommon more time on their hands than they have money. Instead of letting extra pumpkins go to waste, the above are a few ways to stretch your grocery budget a bit further, invest some time in your health, get your kids away from the screen, and have some fun .

   About the author: Megan Barlow helps others understand how to utilize existing resources in their lives, reduce waste, and adopt eco-friendly lifestyles. Find out more at her blogs, Source and Resource and Build and Rebuild.

   Source Article: Uses for Pumpkins

   ]]> http://www.scrapbooking-info.com/scrapbook-organization/10-excellent-ways-to-use-pumpkins/feed/ 0 http://www.scrapbooking-info.com/scrapbook-organization/10-excellent-different-uses-of-pumpkins/ http://www.scrapbooking-info.com/scrapbook-organization/10-excellent-different-uses-of-pumpkins/#comments Thu, 31 Dec 2009 07:30:23 +0000 skwriter http://www.scrapbooking-info.com/scrapbook-organization/10-excellent-different-uses-of-pumpkins/ When we think pumpkins, we think Halloween, Jack-O-Lanterns, pumpkin pie, and perhaps Thanksgiving.

   But, , there are plenty of ways to use a pumpkin!

   During October, pumpkins . Sometimes, they are too abundant. And it’s not uncommon to see excess pumpkins cast aside or left to rot after Halloween, but there’s really no need to let the extras go to waste.

   The following are just a few of the great uses for pumpkins:

   1. Pumpkins in Recipes

   As food, pumpkins are low in calories, yet high in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, protein, and potassium. Dig out your favorite cookbook and search for recipes containing pumpkin.

   Pumpkin breads, pumpkin pies, and muffins are favorites, but you can probably find plenty of others. As an impromptu house guest in Paris, I was once served an amazing pumpkin soup (though I never completed my search for ). There are more exotic recipes to try as well – pumpkin juice, pumpkin ice cream, and even fried pumpkin.

   2. Pumpkin Seeds

   Pumpkin seeds (also called “pepitas”) are also known to be highly nutritious, and are used in weight-loss diets. They provide fiber, healthy fats, and protein, as well as minerals such as magnesium, manganese, zinc, iron, and copper. They are also known to strengthen the immune system, and to be good for people with high cholesterol.

   Roasted pumpkin seeds make excellent , can be sprinkled over a holiday squash soup, and are a favorite in Mexican cooking. Candied pumpkin seeds are good for parties as well – and even the children might accept them among their Halloween candy.

   3. for Pets

   Mashed pumpkin is a remedy for digestive trouble in dogs. It can be used to combat weight gain or diarrhea, and for resistance to infections. also said to be good for a dog’s night vision and general health.

   Simply add a few spoonfuls of pumpkin to the dog’s food. (Important: it must be pure mashed pumpkin, not a mix!) create your own mashed pumpkin, see #4 below.

   Cats may like pumpkin as well, and it can be given to help cats with similar digestive troubles, as well as hairballs.

   Remember, if your pet is sick, take him to the vet! Also, ask your vet about using pumpkin for a home remedy.

   4. Pumpkins for Later

   more pumpkins than you know what to do with, you can save them for later use in recipes and for winter holidays.

   There are several ways to create pumpkin puree which can be frozen . The following are three preparation methods:

   1. Baking – Cut the pumpkin , place it on a baking sheet with the flat side downwith the flat side down, and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, for about an hour, or until it is tender when tested with a fork.

   2. Microwave – , but instead of placing the pumpkin in an oven, microwave it on high for about 15 minutes, or until it is tender.

   3. Boiling – Cut the pumpkin into large chunks and then rinse. Then, place the chunks cover with water (fully immersing the pumpkins, plus one inch of water on top), and boil until tender.

   utilized one of the above methods to soften the pumpkin, cool it off, peel it, and mash it in a food processor. You can also use a potato masher .

   Then, simply close the puree in zip lock bags, or whatever is convenient, and freeze it for for the winter. The puree can be used as a substitute for canned pumpkin, in any recipe.

   5. Pumpkins as Dishes

   You can clean a pumpkin well, cut it in half, and dry it for use as a serving bowl or a flower vase. You can also use a halved pumpkin to cook or bake other foods in.

   6. Pumpkins for the Skin

   Pumpkins contain anti-oxidants and alpha-hydroxy, which are said to be good for the skin. You can use pumpkin peels as , to combat aging or other skin problems.

   7. Pumpkins for Children and Games

   children’s drawing and carving contests. If your kids are too little to start carving yet, they can also decorate pumpkins with markers or paint – or even create a pumpkin collage. Another use of pumpkins is as targets for archery practice.

   definitely don’t recommend any games that involve throwing pumpkins, nor using them as substitutes for soccer balls.

   Possibly even better, how about a cross between a Jack-O-Lantern, a Snow Man, and a Scare Crow? Your kids might have a great time making a Pumpkin Man – and it’s much better for them than watching TV.

   8. Pumpkins as Ornaments

   Pumpkins, gourds, and squash can be used to create candle holders, Thanksgiving centerpieces, and other ornaments.

   9. Musical Pumpkins

   Yes, that’s right, pumpkins make good musical instruments as well. Or, at least they can if you know how to make (and play) them. You can find a variety of ideas for instruments that can be made from gourds, squashes, and pumpkins. Although many musical instruments are made from gourds, one can easily imagine how a large or small pumpkin would do just as well in many cases.

   10. Pumpkins for Crafts

   If you are an experienced craftsman or a devout hobbyist, you might try some more advanced and creative uses of pumpkins. You can make pumpkin leather like the American Indians did, or just settle with a simple pumpkin bird house.

   As you can see, there’s really no need for pumpkins to go to waste, either before Halloween or afterwards.

   During economic recessions, it’s not uncommon that people have more time on their hands than they have money. Instead of letting extra pumpkins go to waste, are a few ways you can stretch your grocery budget a bit further, invest some time in your health, get your kids away from the screen, and have some fun at the same time.

   About the author: Megan Barlow helps others understand how to utilize existing resources in their lives, reduce waste, and adopt eco-friendly lifestyles. Find out more at her blogs, Source and Resource and Build and Rebuild.

   Source Article: Different Ways of Using Pumpkins

   ]]> http://www.scrapbooking-info.com/scrapbook-organization/10-excellent-different-uses-of-pumpkins/feed/ 0