A Symbol of Hope

A couple of Christmas's ago we gave some money to a young couple to help with medical expenses associated with the treatment of the wife's breast cancer.  It went into remission not long after.  Last night I learned that it is back and the cancer has spread.  I personally don't know this woman, but my heart breaks for her.  She is young-in her 20's.  She is a mom to 2 little ones.  I can't even begin to imagine what she must be going through.  

Since October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I thought I would help spread the word.  I have been following The Project Queen for the past few weeks as she has posted something pink as well as a breast cancer fact every single day.  Did you know that on average, 112 women die from breast cancer every day?! EVERY DAY!  That is an alarming number!  Early detection is key to fighting and beating this malicious disease. If you are a woman, (no matter your age) check your breasts regularly!  And if you are 40 or over, it is recommended that you get a mammogram every 1-2 years.  The most common signs of breast cancer are: a lump in the breast; abnormal thickening of the breast; or a change in the shape or color of the breast.  Check them often, ladies!

In lieu of this special month, I made a little something.  And it's pink: 

In hopes that women everywhere will make breast exams a part of their preventative healthcare.

And that someday a cure will be found!

The Hope Scarf is such a simple design.  The most beginner of beginning sewers can pull it off easily.  I encourage you to make one and spread the word!

Materials:

-1/2 Yd Pink Jersey Knit Fabric

-Scissors

-Thread

-Sewing Machine

Step 1:  Cut It

Cut your fabric in half lengthwise.

Step 2:  Sew the 2 Pieces Together

With right sides together, pin 2 of the short ends to each other.  Sew with 5/8" seam allowance.

Step 3:  Adjust the Length

Try it on.  Adjust the length to your liking with a few snips.  I cut about 12 inches off mine.  No need for finishing the raw edges because they won't fray!  

If you don't sew, no sweat!  You can still "make" one.  Simply go the fabric store and get a 1/2 yard of jersey knit fabric and drape it stylishly around your neck.  Same thing, but a little chunkier and just as cute!  

Hugs to all you women out there fighting breast cancer.  My hope and prayers are with you!

*update:

The Hope Scarf could be YOURS!  I have whipped up another one and will be participating in One Artsy Momma's "Un-giveaway for the Cure", which is basically a silent auction.  The scarf will be given to the commentor who bids the highest amount.  All proceeds will go directly to The Susan G. Komen Foundation.  Come back Wed, Oct. 19 for your chance at The Hope Scarf!

CLICK HERE TO MAKE A BID

Beginner Needle Felting: Felted Acorns

This morning I tried needle felting for the first time and made this lovely acorn! If you are not familiar with needle felting it is the process of pushing layers of wool together with a spiky long needle that is ultra sharp, resulting in the layers sticking together.  You don't need many materials and it is very simple, but you do need to be super careful as to not poke yourself!

To get started, gather these items:

- wool roving

I bought mine at JoAnn's which didn't have a large selection of colors, but something to start out with.  If you don't mind waiting a few days for it to ship and want more variety, search Etsy.  If you aren't sure what wool roving is or want to know more about it, this link will be helpful:  explanation of wool fibers.

- a felting needle

The link above also provides info on different needles.

- a piece of thick foam or a pillow

This is for your work surface.  I used a pillow and it worked just great!

- acorn caps

If you don't have an oak tree nearby, just purchase some caps.  I paid a whopping $2.00 for 50 at Snorkelbuzz. 

- a glue gun

Once you've got your supplies, get poking!  Pull a small piece of roving apart, roll it into a ball and start poking.  Poke and poke some more until you like how it looks and it is the shape you want.  For a good visual, watch this video tutorial for felted acorns.  Once you get it to the size and shape you want, hot glue it to an acorn cap and it is ready to be used for anything you can imagine up.  I am thinking a garland or wreath or even just in a bowl as some autumn eye candy.  Only time will tell, I've got 49 more caps to fill!