In full acceptance that this outs me as a crazy cat lady, this colour palette is only coming around because I'm madly in love with calico cats- especially my family's cat.  I could give you some magnificent story like I did with the Great Unagi, but honestly I just miss my cat.  She stays with my parents, and there isn't a day I'm not lonesome for her.  So here I am, making a tribute to her lovely colours and delightful soul. 

That being said, I did add some colours inspired by other calicos I've encountered that reminded me of my dear cat.  I figured if I go out of my way to pet them whenever I get the chance, they should probably feel this fibery love and appreciation.

Other than giving you sappy feelings about my cat, I also thought it was worth while to talk about what I've been learning with the more frequent hand painted yarns I've been doing.

This yarn in particular showcased how less can be more.  I was going for a far more light yellow that would blend well, and instead ended up with an electric yellow that quite clearly stands out.  For anyone getting into the dyeing game, I would highly recommend trusting that the colour will show even if there is only a little bit of dye powder getting mixed in (if you're going for less intense colours).  

The colours do fade a bit after being washed, but not too much (as long as the fiber was prepped properly).  

Here's the part where I get sentimental again.  I love this yarn even though it's not what I expected at all, which reminds me even of the very feline this represents.

My dad, brother, and I brought her home in a cricket box from a very small pet store in the town I grew up in.  She was the runt of the litter and terrified of everything.  My mother told me years later that she feared this little fraidy-cat wouldn't last if for no other reason that her heart would give out from being startled by the slightest sound.  

She changed though, she got braver and started to warm up to the family we brought her into.  She's 15 years old, 13 pounds, and the most delightful creature I've ever met, and even from a thousand miles away she makes my heart melt and want to be more.  

I think of her because she reminds of why it's nice to take chances even if you're not sure things are going to work out, especially if what motivates you is love.  

You'll be noticing some changes around the site in the next couple of months.  I'm filling out the website a little more, I've added a link to where you can donate if you so feel inclined (don't worry, blog posts and adventures will keep coming no matter what), and I'm taking further steps to making the Sweet Crafterlife a permanent fixture of my life, and hopefully yours.  

I'll keep you updated, but until then-

Stay sweet, stay crafty, and stay tuned.