Nina Libin's Floating Heart

I'm apart of the weekly online tatting class hosted by Georgia Seitz. This pass week we walked through the pattern for making the Floating Heart Necklace by Nina Libin.

The Original Design

It is a lovely piece with a hefty amount of beads used. I had no real desire to tat with as small of a thread as the pattern recommended, so I went with a nice size 10.

My design after some hand blocking

The beads are a metallic black and came from a broken necklace I had realized early on that the weight of the beads would slightly distort the pattern, but I loved the color too much to change it. I was curious to work out the pattern and see the finished results.

Actual blocking of the piece

I'll be honest, it looked like a hot mess after I finally woven in all the ends. I knew the piece would need some serious blocking.

Really had to get those beads to lay down

I must say that the floating heart came out better then I expected.

After blocking

It's too big and heavy to wear as a necklace. So I plan to add some fabric stiffener and turn it into a Christmas ornament. (I know, metallic black isn't a traditional holiday color, but anything that shimmers is fair game on my Christmas tree.)

My favorite pic of my floating heart

What Does The Fox Knit?

What does the fox say? A lot, apparently. The music sensation by Ylvis has reawaken a whole new appreciation for our red and white tailed friend. And just in time for winter too. Here is a list of winter wear items to knit or crochet with foxy features to help you re-enact your own version of the, "What Does The Fox Say" video.

Why not this lovely sweater designed for the more sophisticated fox. I can totally see you walking into the board meeting wearing this number.

Fox Pullover by Wei Wilkins

It's going to be a busy holiday season. Why not carry all those gifts and holiday cards in this foxy bag.

Fox Traveling Bag by Toni Rexroat

Keep those fingers warm while tossing those snowballs with this cute pair of mittens. If someone gets mad at you for throwing a snowball at them, just blame it on the foxes.

Fox Mittens by Laura Poikolainen

Finally, your foxy attire just wouldn't be complete without a fox hat complete with ears. This would make a great gift for all the little foxes in your life too.

Sly Fox Hat by Lisa Gutierrez


So, I'll leave you with the music video to help you get in the mood for some foxy knits. Enjoy!