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The Sweet as Honey Tote Bag

The Sweet as Honey tote bag that can go with the sweatshirt!

Y’all know I loves me a tote bag and what better one that can pair with a cozy sweatshirt? Meet the Sweet as Honey Tote Bag—a stylish blend of nature-inspired beauty and functional design. Whether you’re heading to the farmer’s market, running errands, or just out for a casual day, this tote is the perfect companion to carry everything you need with ease.

Why You’ll Love It

🐝 Bee-utiful Design – The backdrop highlights a warm honey jar, golden drizzles, and buzzing bees, creating a delightful, nature-inspired aesthetic that’s sure to turn heads.

👜 Spacious & Sturdy – Made with high-quality materials, this tote is built to handle your daily essentials while keeping you looking effortlessly stylish. Comes in three sizes with a choice of 5 handle colors

🌱 Eco-Friendly Choice – Skip the plastic bags and opt for a reusable tote that aligns with your love for sustainability and nature.

The Perfect Gift for Nature Lovers

Know someone who adores bees, honey, or all things sweet? This tote makes a thoughtful gift for birthdays, Mother’s Day, or just because! It’s perfect for anyone who appreciates a little natural charm in their everyday accessories.

Get Yours Today!

Ready to add some sweetness to your style? Grab your Sweet as Honey Tote Bag now and carry a little bit of nature’s magic with you wherever you go. Get it here.

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Feather & Fan Drop Stitch Scarf

Feather and Fan Drop Stitch Scarf from designbcb

Introducing the Feather & Fan Drop Stitch Scarf

If you’re looking for a statement scarf that blends timeless lacework with modern texture, the Feather & Fan Drop Stitch Scarf is the perfect addition to your wardrobe. Crafted with a delicate yet eye-catching pattern, this scarf effortlessly elevates any outfit with its flowing waves and airy design.

A Classic Pattern with a Contemporary Twist

Feather & Fan is a beloved lace knitting pattern known for its elegant, undulating waves. By incorporating drop stitches, this scarf takes on a more dramatic, open look, making it both lightweight and striking. Measuring 8″ x 60″, it’s the ideal length to drape gracefully over your shoulders or wrap snugly around your neck for warmth.

Made for Comfort and Style

This scarf is made with 100% acrylic yarn, ensuring a soft touch and easy care. It’s perfect for transitional weather, offering warmth without being too heavy. The addition of long, flowing fringe adds a boho-chic touch, making it a versatile accessory for any occasion.

Coming Soon: The Pattern Release

For fellow knitters, an exciting update: the pattern for this scarf will be available soon! Whether you’re an intermediate knitter looking for a rewarding project or an experienced crafter seeking a beautiful and relaxing knit, this pattern is sure to become a favorite.

Stay tuned for updates on the pattern release and grab your own handcrafted Feather & Fan Drop Stitch Scarf today on Etsy! Check it out here.

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Knit vs. Crochet

Knit vs. Crochet: Which Came First, Which Is Easier, and What Are People Searching For?

Knitting and crochet are two beloved fiber arts that have been passed down through generations, each offering its own unique benefits. Whether you’re a beginner trying to decide which to learn first or a seasoned crafter looking for new inspiration, understanding the history, ease of learning, and what people search for can help deepen your appreciation for both crafts.

Which Came First: Knitting or Crochet?

If you’ve ever wondered about the origins of knitting and crochet, the answer might surprise you! Knitting is the older of the two, with historical evidence dating back to at least the 3rd to 5th centuries CE. Some of the earliest knitted artifacts, such as intricately patterned cotton socks, were discovered in Egypt. These items were created using a technique similar to modern-day two-needle knitting.

Crochet, by contrast, is a younger craft that emerged in Europe during the 19th century. It likely evolved from tambour embroidery, a technique that used a hooked needle to create a chain-stitch design on fabric. While knitting boasts a much longer history, crochet has developed its own strong following and unique artistic contributions over the years.

Which Is Easier: Knitting or Crochet?

The answer to this question depends on personal preference, but many beginners find crochet easier to pick up. Here’s why:

Why Crochet Is Often Considered Easier:

  • Uses one hook instead of two needles, making it less intimidating for beginners.
  • Easier to fix mistakes since only one active loop is in play at a time.
  • Works up faster because crochet stitches tend to be taller and looser.
  • More flexible and forgiving, making it great for freeform designs.

Why Knitting Can Be More Challenging:

  • Requires more precision, as multiple stitches remain on the needles at once.
  • Fixing mistakes (like dropped stitches) can be trickier.
  • Takes longer for large projects since knitting stitches are generally smaller and more compact.
  • Provides a more structured and drapey fabric, ideal for garments.

What Are People Searching for When They Look Up Knitting or Crochet?

Online searches for knitting and crochet often fall into these key categories:

1. Patterns and Tutorials

Crafters frequently look for inspiration and guidance by searching for terms like “knitting patterns,” “crochet patterns,” “how to crochet a blanket,” or “easy knitting scarf pattern.” (Find my patterns here.)

2. Tools and Materials

Before starting a project, many search for the best supplies, such as “best crochet hooks for beginners” or “knitting needles for sweaters.”

3. Techniques and Skill Development

Learning new skills is a major reason people turn to online searches, with common queries including “how to fix a dropped stitch in knitting” or “how to crochet in the round.”

4. Community and Social Engagement

Many knitters and crocheters seek support, friendship, and inspiration from others, searching for “knitting groups near me” or “best crochet forums.”

5. Handmade Product Shopping

Some searches are from consumers looking to buy finished handmade goods, such as “hand-knit scarves for sale” or “crochet blankets Etsy.”

Final Thoughts

Both knitting and crochet have rich histories, unique advantages, and a passionate global following. Whether you choose to knit, crochet, or do both, the joy of creating handmade pieces is what truly matters. And with the vast amount of online resources available, there’s never been a better time to dive into the fiber arts world!

Do you prefer knitting, crochet, or both? Let us know in the comments!

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The Sweet as Honey Sweatshirt

The Sweet as Honey Sweatshirt is now available at Abbey & and you can personalize it! Totally charming on it’s own with the bee and the jar and the cotton fleece; it’s even better cuz you can get a name or a short phrase put on the back!

There’s something undeniably charming about bees. These tiny, hardworking creatures symbolize community, perseverance, and the beauty of nature. If you love bees as much as we do, then you’ll adore our Bee and Honey Sweatshirt—a cozy, stylish way to show off your appreciation for these essential pollinators.

A Design Inspired by Nature

Our Bee and Honey sweatshirt features a beautifully detailed design that blends vintage aesthetics with modern style. The drawing shows two bees admiring the fruit, or nectar, of their labor. A jar of golden honey. Whether you’re a nature lover, beekeeper, or simply someone who enjoys unique and meaningful apparel, this sweatshirt is a perfect fit for your wardrobe.

Comfort Meets Style

Crafted with soft, high-quality cotton and polyester, this sweatshirt is as comfortable as it is eye-catching. Whether you’re sipping tea on a chilly morning, heading out for a casual day, or layering up for an autumn walk, this piece is designed to keep you warm and stylish. Available in multiple sizes and colors, it’s easy to find the perfect fit for your personal style.

A Thoughtful Gift for Bee Lovers

Looking for a thoughtful gift? The Bee and Honey sweatshirt makes a fantastic present for beekeepers, garden lovers, or anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature. It’s a great way to share a little warmth and happiness with a friend, family member, or even yourself!

Support Small Business & Sustainable Fashion

By purchasing from our shop, you’re not just getting a beautiful sweatshirt—you’re supporting a small business that values creativity, sustainability, and high-quality craftsmanship. Every order is made with care, ensuring that you receive a product that looks and feels amazing.

Get Yours Today

Ready to add some buzz-worthy charm to your wardrobe? Shop the Bee and Honey Sweatshirt here and embrace the cozy comfort of nature-inspired fashion.

Let’s celebrate the beauty of bees—one stylish sweatshirt at a time! 🐝💛

 

 

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Winter Woods Mug

Winter Woods Mug by Abbey & Lincoln

Cozy Up with the Winter Woods Mug

One of my friends, Liz, loves to ski. Which kinda means you have to tolerate winter. She’s a better man than I am because I don’t ski. I don’t have a particular fondness for winter. But I appreciate the beauty of it – from the warmth of my yarn room with space heater. If you love the cozy charm of winter landscapes, then my Winter Woods Mug is the perfect way to bring that enchantment into your daily routine.

A Mug That Captures Winter’s Beauty

Inspired by serene snow-covered forests, this mug features an elegant and artistic woodland scene. The deep teal and soft snowy hues blend beautifully with warm earth tones, creating a design that evokes the wonder of a winter walk through the woods. Delicate falling snowflakes complete the look, making every sip feel like a moment of peace in nature.

Perfect for Cozy Moments

Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa by the fireplace, enjoying a morning cup of coffee, or winding down with herbal tea, this mug adds a special touch to your cozy moments. The contrast of the rich colors with the vibrant red handle and interior gives it a bold, stylish look while keeping it timelessly charming.

A Thoughtful Gift for Winter Lovers

Looking for a unique and meaningful gift? The Winter Woods Mug makes a wonderful present for nature lovers, winter enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates seasonal beauty. Pair it with a bag of artisan coffee or a selection of winter teas to create a thoughtful gift set.

Why You’ll Love It:

High-quality ceramic with a vibrant, fade-resistant print
Beautiful winter landscape design for a cozy, rustic feel
Dishwasher and microwave safe for easy use
Choice of eight colors
Available now in my Etsy shop!

Bring the magic of winter into your home with the Winter Woods Mug. It’s more than just a cup—it’s an invitation to slow down, savor the season, and find joy in the simple moments.

Get yours today: Winter Woods Mug on Etsy

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Cozy Cottage Sticker Pack

Introducing the Cozy Cottage Sticker Pack: A Year of Charm in 58 Hand-Drawn Stickers

There’s something undeniably magical about the places we call home—the way they transform with the seasons, the memories they hold, and the warmth they bring. Whether you dream of a quiet farmhouse, a charming city house, a bustling farm, or a cozy apartment, each home tells a story. That’s why I’m so excited to introduce the Cozy Cottage Sticker Pack, a collection of 58 hand-drawn pencil stickers that celebrate the beauty of home through all four seasons and major holidays!

A Sticker for Every Season & Celebration

From the first blossoms of spring to the golden hues of autumn, these stickers bring your favorite places to life in stunning pencil illustrations. Whether it’s a farmhouse covered in fresh snow, a city house glowing with summer sunshine, or a farm decked out for the holidays, you’ll find a sticker for every occasion.

Each sticker is designed to fit seamlessly into planners, journals, scrapbooks, and DIY projects. They add a cozy, vintage-inspired touch to your creative space, making them perfect for bullet journaling, card-making, or even decorating digital planners!

What’s Inside?

  • 58 unique hand-drawn stickers featuring four home styles: a farmhouse, a city house, a farm, and an apartment
  • All four seasons + major holidays and observances beautifully illustrated
  • High-quality 300dpi files in PNG, JPG, and PDF formats for crisp prints
  • Instant download – receive a PDF with links to your Google Drive files

Why You’ll Love These Stickers

  1. Timeless Pencil Art – The hand-drawn style gives each sticker a soft, nostalgic feel, perfect for cottagecore lovers and stationery enthusiasts alike.
  2. Seasonal Versatility – Use these stickers all year long! Decorate your planner in the spring with a floral farmhouse or mark the holidays with a festively adorned apartment.
  3. Print & Cut at Home – Since they come in multiple formats, you can print them as sticker sheets, use them digitally, or cut them out for scrapbooking fun.

Get Your Cozy Cottage Stickers Today!

The Cozy Cottage Sticker Pack is now available in my Etsy shop! Once purchased, you’ll receive a PDF file with links to download all your stickers from Google Drive—easy, convenient, and ready for your next creative project.

👉 Shop now: https://abbeyandlincoln.etsy.com

I’d love to see how you use these stickers! Tag me on social media with #CozyCottageStickers to share your creations. Happy journaling!

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Binge Like A Pro

Binge like a pro. One of the perks of knitting and crocheting as a career is getting to stream shows while you work. I can knit (and purl) with my eyes closed and I’m just getting to the point where I don’t have to constantly look at the work while I crochet. That means I can concentrate that much more on the screen while still doing quality work.

But binge watching while knitting or crocheting is a learned skill. Things can go wrong fairly quickly. If you’re a hobbyist or you’re constantly making things for yourself, you may not have to perfect your craft skill. But for those of that sell our work, it’s critical we don’t smear chocolate on the fiber or goop up our needles and hooks with jelly or fruit juice. There is a method to the madness of streaming while stitching and I am here to give you instruction.

Pick the right project. Binge watching isn’t the time to learn an intricate pattern or to test out new stitches that are unfamiliar. Instead, opt for:

      • Simple stitch patterns: Stockinette, garter stitch, or repetitive granny squares.
      • Small projects: Hats, scarves, or dishcloths are perfect for shorter binges.
      • Pre-marked patterns: Use stitch markers and row counters to keep track effortlessly.

Pick the right show. You don’t want to deal with a cliffhanger or a mystery that will call for your full attention. You want to enjoy what you’re watching but you also want to make progress. 

  • For high-focus projects: Rewatch a beloved series or pick a lighthearted sitcom.
  • For mindless stitching: Dive into gripping dramas, documentaries, or thrillers.
    Bonus tip: Subtitled shows can be tricky unless you’re a crafting multitasker extraordinaire!

Create a Comfortable Setup

Setting the stage is crucial for a stress-free knit-and-chill session:

  • Lighting: A good task lamp will keep your stitches visible without ruining the cozy ambiance.
  • Seating: Choose a chair or couch with good back support. Add a lap cushion to prop up your project.
  • Storage: Keep your yarn, scissors, and stitch markers within arm’s reach.

Snack Smart

Snack cravings strike mid-binge, but greasy fingers and delicate yarn don’t mix. Opt for:

  • Finger-friendly snacks like popcorn, grapes, or pretzels.
  • A spill-proof cup or water bottle to stay hydrated.

Set Goals (But Stay Flexible)

It’s easy to lose track of time during a good binge-watch. To stay productive, set small goals:

  • “I’ll finish this section by the end of the episode.”
  • “This season = one finished hat.”
    But don’t stress! The point is to enjoy the process.

Prep for Marathon Sessions

Planning a day of crafting and streaming? Prepare like a pro:

  • Stretch regularly: Take breaks to avoid stiff hands and a sore neck.
  • Keep essentials handy: Think extra yarn, a blanket, and maybe even your pet for added coziness.
  • Line up your next binge: Nothing kills the vibe like endlessly scrolling for something to watch.

Join the Knitflix Community

Crafting doesn’t have to be a solo activity! Share your progress with online communities:

  • Post photos of your “Knitflix” setup on Instagram or Pinterest.
  • Join Facebook groups or forums for craft and TV enthusiasts.

Track Your Progress

Use a notebook or app to track your project progress and TV achievements. Bonus points if you create themed projects inspired by your favorite series!

Final Thoughts

Crafting while binge-watching is more than a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re knitting a scarf while exploring Middle Earth or crocheting a blanket as detectives solve mysteries, the key is to find the balance between stitches and screen time.

What’s your favorite show to craft to? Share your recommendations and projects in the comments below! Happy Knitflixing! 🎥🧶

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Ten Time Saving Tips for Busy Knitters and Crocheters

 

Ten Time Saving Tips for Busy Knitters and Crocheters is coming – but first: Straight Outta the Farmer’s Market is my latest POD from Abbey & Lincoln. It’s fleece so it’s good for fall, winter and spring. Check it out at the link. Now on to those tips.

It’s kinda unfair of me to count myself as a busy knitter or crocheter. I mean, I am a busy knitter and crocheter but I’m busy knitting and crocheting because it’s the gig. For most folks, knitting and crocheting helps them relax from the busy. For all of us, that time is precious and we want to make the most of it. Here are some tips that will help you do just that.

Organize Your Supplies

A cluttered yarn stash can slow you down. Take time to organize your yarn, needles, hooks, and patterns. Use bins, baskets, or shelves to store your supplies, and label them clearly. Having everything within easy reach means you’ll spend less time searching and more time crafting.

This I know from experience and this is number one because I have to apply this tip to my life. At this moment, I don’t know what’s in my yarn stash and I don’t know where a set of my interchangeable knitting tips are. This wastes time and also money. The yarn stash will be it’s own job to tackle but I can certainly round up the needles, hooks, etc. and put them in an accessible place where I can grab and go.

Plan Your Projects in Advance

Create a project list with a clear priority. Use tools like Ravelry or a bullet journal to organize patterns and track progress. Planning ahead ensures you’re always ready to pick up your next project without hesitation. I started this on an Excel spreadsheet. It is sorted to desighbcb on Etsy, Abbey & Lincoln and designbcb boho.

Use Chunky Yarns and Bigger Hooks or Needles

When you’re pressed for time, projects made with chunky yarns and larger hooks or needles can work up quickly. These are perfect for cozy scarves, blankets, and hats that deliver instant gratification.

Work on Portable Projects

Choose small, portable projects that you can take anywhere. Socks,(though I don’t make them and it would take a lot to get me to do it) dishcloths, and baby items are easy to carry and can be worked on during lunch breaks, commutes (if you’re not driving!), or while waiting for appointments.

Learn to Read Your Work

Take a look at your work after each row of the pattern so you can see how it flows and what the stitches look like. This will help if you have to put down your work and don’t have time to mark it.

Batch Similar Tasks

Save time by batching tasks like winding yarn, sewing seams, or weaving in ends. Set aside specific times to handle these less exciting parts of crafting so you can focus on the fun parts—knitting and crocheting.

Use Stitch Markers, Row Counters and Life Lines

Tools like stitch markers and row counters can help you keep track of your progress, especially with complex patterns. A life line is useful if you’re doing a lace stitch or a long pattern where have to start over from the beginning will make you want to pull someone’s hair out. These tools prevent mistakes that could cost you time and energy to fix later.

Join a Crafting Group

Knitting or crocheting with others can keep you motivated and accountable. Crafting groups often inspire you to finish projects faster while providing tips and encouragement. If you can’t attend in person, join an online group or forum.

Learn to Love Simple Patterns

Complicated patterns are rewarding but can be time-consuming. When you’re short on time, opt for simple patterns with repetitive stitches. These are quicker to work on and often just as beautiful.

Set a Timer and Craft in Short Bursts

If you’re busy, even 15-30 minutes a day can make a difference. Set a timer and focus solely on your project during that time. You’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish in just a few focused sessions each week.

Bonus Tip: Embrace Progress, Not Perfection

Remember, crafting should be enjoyable, not stressful. Celebrate the progress you make, no matter how small, and don’t worry about achieving perfection. Every stitch is a step closer to your finished project.

With these time-saving tips, you can make the most of your crafting moments and keep your passion for knitting and crochet alive—even on the busiest days. Which tip will you try first? Let me know in the comments below!

 

 

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I Live and Breathe

I live and breathe yarn. So much so that I have a storage bin that holds nothing but yarn and yarn related things. And the storage bin holds most of it and it’s almost full. I can honestly say I have too much. One of my goals for 2025 is to downsize the stash so that it all fits in the closet. With the doors closed. That will be a very tall order but I am motivated because I don’t want to pay to have my yarn held offsite.

Motivated and excited because I like having my days centered around being creative and making pretty things with sticks and strings. I know this is a blessing and some people can’t do it. That is another reason to become responsible for the gift and the blessing and not be wasteful of it. Believing this is a day made by the spirit; this is what my day is like:

The day begins with a protein shake and a quiet moment in my yarn room—my sanctuary. With over 1,000 skeins of yarn in my collection, the possibilities feel endless. I start by reviewing seeing if I have any new sales. This is more like from October – February. The rest of the year, sales are a surprise. Though I hope to change that by being more season conscious and adding more patterns.

I have a schedule of projects. I work on them in groups of three. One for designbcb, Abbey & Lincoln and GoImagine. They can also double as inventory for craft shows. My schedule is divided on an Excel worksheet with each cell being an hour. Most of the cells are filled with knit/crochet but there are other things in there as well: church, study, cleaning, paying bills…other things I need to accomplish during the day. Workouts are there, too, twenty times. Workout times vary so I can get in 2-5 hours of exercise a week.

Getting to Work

I start whatever is on my spreadsheet to do. One of the perks of knitting and crocheting for a living is being able to stream something or listen to music. I have a full menu of streaming channels and I alternate through them. Some of the shows I enjoy while streaming are Call the Midwife, 9-1-1 Austin, all the FBI series and some movies.

The reason I enjoy it is because I enjoy the process. I get something pretty in the end but it is the act that is the thing that reaches my soul. The reason I opened an Etsy shop was because I had so much stuff lying around the house and the biannual sales we had at church didn’t clear out enough of it. I opened a shop as a consequence of all the knitting and crochet.

Taking Care of Business

Once a project is finished, I change the color of it on the spreadsheet and then the business part of the day kicks in. It has to photographed, priced, listed in one of the stores. If it is a physical item, it has to be logged onto my Square app so I have it for a craft show. I will write a blog post about and a yarn review if it is made with yarn. It needs to be posted to all my social media, logged into a inventory book, added to the newsletter, (sign up for it here.) Finally, it gets added to the shop carousel.

It’s quite the process and can take a minute before it’s all done. It doesn’t help that I am easily distracted and things don’t always go as planned. The day is pretty long and ambitious. There are free hours designated, as well. They come in handy. My day goes pretty late, I usually in bed by 1 or 2am.

What does your perfect knit and crochet day look like? Share your routine or favorite moments in the comments below—I’d love to hear how you bring yarn to life!

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A Case of the Scrunchies

It’s a case of the scrunchies!

Introducing Crochet Scrunchies: Your New Favorite Hair Accessory!

I’m so excited to introduce the latest addition to my Design BCB collection: crochet scrunchies! These beauties are a must-have for anyone who loves unique, handmade items with a touch of charm.

What Makes Crochet Scrunchies Special?

Unlike your typical hair ties, crochet scrunchies add a pop of texture and personality to your hairstyle. Each scrunchie is lovingly handcrafted with soft, durable yarn that feels gentle on your hair. Whether you’re pulling your hair into a high ponytail, a messy bun, or just wearing it on your wrist as a fun accessory, these scrunchies are versatile and chic.

One of the standout designs is our Cranberry Ruffle Scrunchie (pictured above). Its deep red color and playful ruffles make it perfect for the holiday season or as a statement piece year-round. It’s the perfect blend of practical and pretty!

Why You’ll Love Them:

  • Handmade with Care: Each scrunchie is crocheted by hand, ensuring quality and attention to detail.
  • Gentle on Hair: The soft yarn helps prevent breakage and won’t tug or snag.
  • Unique Designs: No two scrunchies are exactly alike, giving you a one-of-a-kind accessory.
  • Eco-Friendly: By choosing handmade items, you’re supporting sustainable and eco-conscious fashion.

Styling Tips:

  1. Effortless Chic: Pair a crochet scrunchie with a loose braid for a boho-inspired look.
  2. Holiday Glam: Use a bold color like Cranberry to add a festive touch to your updo.
  3. Everyday Comfort: Wear it on your wrist as a bracelet when you’re not styling your hair—practical and stylish!

Perfect for Gifting

Crochet scrunchies make thoughtful and affordable gifts for friends, family, or coworkers. With their handmade charm, they’re a delightful way to show someone you care. You can even pair them with other DesignBCB items like scarves or tote bags for a coordinated gift set.

Where to Find Them

You can shop these gorgeous crochet scrunchies and more at my online store:

Stay tuned for more colors and designs coming soon! Whether you’re treating yourself or someone special, these crochet scrunchies are sure to bring joy and style to your everyday life.

Let’s Chat!

I’d love to hear your thoughts! Which colors or styles would you like to see next? Have ideas for how to style these scrunchies? Drop your suggestions in the comments or message me directly. Happy crocheting and accessorizing!