tom's blue bathroomMaybe it has just run its course, but I am not feeling this fifth season of HGTV Design Star. Contestants are all about playing the game, and I think they know less about design than I DO! As of the sixth episode – with the hideous blueberry bathroom, I still don’t have a clear cut favorite. In fact, I couldn’t link a decent design style to any of the remaining designers if my life depended on it.

Then, there are the judges. Candace, I love you and your style, but how can you, of all people, criticize a designer for doing the same thing again and again? Really, my dear. You’re the queen of sectionals, sparkly chandeliers, zero clearance fireplaces and mirrored bookcases. And Vern? You don’t have a leg to stand on either. Every pillow you have ever put in any space has had a square motive – a tan and gray square motive. Now, Genevieve, you’ve got some range as a designer and I think that comes from your Trading Spaces days. You know how to do a lot with a little money. So, you’ve got cred.

As a former TV producer, I was floored that Nina went home in episode five. She was the drama creator and drama is what producers want, especially for that production company. I thought they’d keep her longer. I also wonder if they cut the budget for the challenges – or if the designers really suck that bad.

Overall the structure of the judging and the challenges are painful. We’ll see if I watch any more of it. I hate Vern, by the way. He is an asshole.

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candied apples

“Every thought is a seed. If you plant crab apples, don’t count on harvesting golden delicious.” ~ Bill Meyer

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What’s Old is New Again

July 25, 2010
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When I first stumbled onto double ended crochet I thought it was a brand new technique. Feeling all superior and modern in my needlewoman skills, I was absolutely giddy with the technique of it.

Yeah, well. Read the materials needed for this pattern. Go ahead, I’ll wait.
Doh-de, doh-de-doh.
That’s right. You need one No. 9 double hook [...]

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Well Said Wed. #22

July 21, 2010
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Visit Notes from a Cottage Industry for her wonderful words of wisdom and links to other quote lovers!

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Handy-Dandy Market Bags To Make Yourself

July 18, 2010
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A reader emailed me questions about the market bag I made a long, long time ago. That wonderful pink bag didn’t last, by the way. The baggers at the grocery stores just really crammed too much in it. Not sure why they thought it was indestructible. It ripped several times. The first two times [...]

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Well Said Wed. #21

July 14, 2010
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“The question isn’t who is going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me.” ~ Ayn Rand

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24 Handbags From 1944

July 11, 2010
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Pattern books and magazines from the about the 1920s through 1950s really do it for me.  It matters not if the patterns are for crochet, knit or a combination of the two, they really turn me on, make me swoon and catch my breath.

I especially like accessories like this collection of handbags from Jack Frost. [...]

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Paper Yarn

July 9, 2010
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Yes, darlings, this skirt and vest ensemble was knit from paper yarn that was made from newspaper.
Then there’s this darker crocheted cardigan also made from newspaper yarn.

Want to know how to make your very own homespun paper yarn from your very own newspapers? Here’s how on Green Upgrader.
But, if you’re lazy like me and want [...]

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