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 Shannon & Jason's Blog 

Product Review: OttLite Revive LED Floorlamp

5/2/2018

 

Review: New Lamp For The Home -  OttLite Revive LED FLoorlamp

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Introducing stitchips

12/16/2017

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Introducing from XRX and Shibaguyz Designz
The Limited Edition Crochet and Knit Collection stitchips

stitchip logo for shibaguyz designz limited edition crochet collection stitchip
shibaguyz designz limited edition crochet collection stitchip
The Fab folks over at XRX have come up with a really cool way to fill your personal library with books, magazines, and pattern collections without taking up space on your shelves.

Introducing stitchips.
stitchips are credit card sized USB drives that are filled with all your favorite crochet, knitting, and weaving titles... all in Rich PDF digital format! stitchips have been formatted for optimal compatibility with as many Mac & Windows (and even some Linux) operating systems as possible.



shibaguyz designz limited edition knit collection stitchip
For the big launch we were asked to be one of two independent designers given our own stitchips! HOW COOL IS THAT?
Of course we jumped at the chance to be involved with this venture and created two Limited Edition Collections; one with all crochet patterns, the other with all knit patterns.

​Each
stitchip includes 12 FAB patterns in Rich PDF format which includes bookmarks, internal page links, high-res images, and charts. You can print pages and/or sections as you see fit or use your computer, tablet, or even your smartphone as a reader (save the trees!). Also you will find extras folders with links to tutorials, special deals and a whole lot more. These things really are amazing.

Because these are all digital patterns appearing in a collection the price for each is a mind blowing $20.00. Yes, just $20.00 for 12 enhanced patterns and all the extras on a credit card sized drive.


To get full details on each of the collections go to shibaguyzdesignz.com/stitchips or click on the link below.
Tell Me More About stitchips
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Shibaguyz Workshop at Camp STITCHES in Idaho

2/13/2017

 

We're Going To Camp Again!  This Time In Our Neck Of The Woods

UPDATE: This event has ended. Sign up for our newsletter so you don't miss our next big event!
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Shibaguyz crochet and knit garment design class at Camp STITCHES Idaho
The reviews and comments keep coming in... our Design It class at Camp STITCHES is a big hit!
We keep hearing from students from all over the globe about the new skills they took away from Camp STITCHES and how much they loved learning about crochet and knit garment design in such an immersive setting.
Shibaguyz crochet and knit garment design class at Camp STITCHES Idaho
Success feels glorious, so thank you both!
Tina -
Camp STITCHES San Antonio

Class was awesome! I attended to get some pointers on fit and designing garments for myself and left with dreams of "designer" in my head!
Cyndi - Camp STITCHES San Antonio

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NEW Garment Design Class by Shibaguyz Designz

7/6/2016

 

Crochet & Knit Garment Design Online Class!

We are very excited to announce the launch of our newest online Garment Design class from Interweave and Craft University.

Yup… in this eight week course, Shannon is going to share the skills we've used here at Shibaguyz Designz for our over 300 published designs and 9 books.

Whether you are a designer looking to up your skills or if you have always wanted to be a crochet and knitwear designer, you'll want to take this course. Even if you never want to publish your designs but want to make FAB garments for yourself, this is a course you don't want to miss out on!

Yes, the focus in the class is on crochet BUT it's all just stitches and rows, folks. And, whether you make those stitches and rows with hooks or sticks (or both), all of the handouts, worksheets, and course material applies equally to both crafts.
New Online Crochet and Knit Garment Design Class from Shibaguyz Designz and Interweave

Check out this introduction video for more details about this exciting class!


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Vogue Knitting Live Pasadena Giveaway!

4/8/2016

 

Win a Free Class with The Shibaguyz and a three-day marketplace pass at Vogue Knitting Live in Pasadena.

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Vogue Knitting Live Pasadena Classes with The Shibaguyz

3/21/2016

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Vogue Knitting Live Pasadena 2016 - Classes with The Shibaguyz

In the Classroom with The Shibaguyz
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The Shibaguyz are proud to announce that we are have been asked to teach a series of classes at this year's Vogue Knitting Live Spring Event in Pasadena, California, May 13-15.  WOOHOO!

We'll be teaching four classes including one full-day 
seminar on making adjustments to existing patterns to achieve the perfect fit, Fashion, Fit, Form, & Function; and another full-day course on designing your own patterns, Design It!.  

Below are the four classes the Shibaguyz will be teaching at Vogue Knitting Live in Pasadena this year. Click on any of the photos to be taken to the registration page then click on the dropdown box next to "Teacher" and select Shannon and Jason Mullett-Bowlsby.  From there you can learn more about each class and, of course, register for them all!
​
You can also go directly to the registration page by clicking this box:​
Register for Vogue Knitting Live!

Friday, May 13, 2016

Shibaguyz Live at Vogue Knitting Live In Pasadena Fashion Fit Form and Function
Fashion Fit Form & Function: May 13th 9am-5pm

Saturday, May 14, 2016

Shibaguyz Live at Vogue Knitting Live In Pasadena Design It
Design It!: May 14th 9am-5pm

Sunday, May 15, 2016

Shibaguyz Live at Vogue Knitting Live In Pasadena Couture Finishing
Couture Finishing for Knitters: May 15th 9am-12pm
Shibaguyz Live at Vogue Knitting Live In Pasadena Beginning Crochet
​Beginning Crochet: May 15th 2pm-5pm
If you have any questions about classes, don't hesitate to get ahold of us through our contact form and we'll get back to you as quickly as possible!

See you at Vogue Knitting Live in Pasadena!
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National Craft Month Week 2 Giveaway

3/8/2016

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Week 2 Giveaway: Craftsy Class, Ottlite, and Eucalan Wash

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Week 1 of National Craft month was a huge success and we're continuing the party this week with an even bigger giveaway for you. 

For Week 2 of National Craft Month you can enter to win:
  • A Free Download of Shannon's Newest Craftsy Course: Crochet Toolkit: Designer Tips & Tricks
  • An LED Mini-Flip Light from Ottlite
  • A Gift Pack of 5 Bottles of Rinse Free Wash from Eucalan

​That's a LOT of swag my friends! Here's the full rundown.

Crochet Toolkit from Craftsy.com

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Folks who follow our escapades on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram know Shannon took a little trip to Denver, Colorado back in December. If you were watching closely, you even noticed him posting a photo like this. 

Yup… that's Shannon on set in front of THE Craftsy logo!

(Note the inclusion of garments from our last two books… hehehe…)
This class is a FAB fav topic of ours: Tips and tricks to take your crochet from good to great! In this course, Shannon takes you step-by-step through the process of how to make solid and lace fabrics, brush up your math skills, and he teaches you how to keep those edges clean and tidy for a professional appearance.  Dreaming of smooth, drapey fabric? Find out how linked stitches can close the gaps and make it happen. Then, add some "wow" techniques to your toolkit, such as crochet I-cord. Yup… two types of crochet cords including attached cords for edges!

Everything you learn here you'll be able to apply  right away! You get techniques and stitches we use in real life, every day.

For more info about this class including a promo video where Shannon tells you all about it, click on the button below.
Learn More - Click Here

Ottlite Mini LED Flip Light

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We LOVE our OttLite lamps.  Shannon has two in his study and Jason uses them in his photo studio to get clear photos with clean white light.  We know you'll love this clip on LED light from OttLite!
  • Ottlite will send you a MiniLED flip-lite to pack in your bag or carry in a pocket so you always have clear bright light with you.  We recently used ours at the Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Show on the show floor to better see the colors of yarn perfectly without having to go outside. 

With OttLite you’ll see more clearly and comfortably, which makes everything you love to do – from sewing and scrapbooking to reading and computer work to crafts and crossword puzzles – easier and more enjoyable. It’s like natural daylight indoors! Click here to learn more.


Gift Set from Eucalan

eucalan gift pack
We can't say enough good things about Eucalan.  Their product is tailor made for crochet and knitting handcrafter... although quilters and sewers swear by this cleaning product as well.  This set of 5 bottles of Eucalan is neatly packaged in a clear re-usable zip bag in each of their scents: Natural, Grapefruit, Eucalyptus, Lavender, and Jasmine. 

Check out their Washing Basics page HERE for tips on using their product.


How to Enter The Week 2 Giveaway!

There are a few ways to enter this giveaway. You earn entries by visiting our Facebook page, our sponsors Facebook pages; and earn daily entries by tweeting a message. 

​Click the button below to register with Rafflecopter for this giveaway and good luck to you all! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway


GRAND PRIZE RULES

Did we neglect to tell you there's a Grand Prize Giveaway including an Ottlite Desk Lamp, Full sized bottles of Eucalan, and a FULL GARMENT'S AMOUNT OF YARN?  Well now you know!

To enter the Grand Prize you'll need to post a photo, video, or other proof that you have purchased the Shibaguyz' new book, Crochet Geometry.  Post a pic of you starting your favorite pattern... do a video review of the book... take a picture of your favorite pattern and post it on Pinterest… or take a book selfie with you and your copy of Crochet Geometry.

Don't have your copy of Crochet Geometry yet? Just go to CrochetGeometry.com by clicking on the button below and you'll see a video and more photos from the book as well as links for where you can buy your book online!
CrochetGeometry.com
a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Shibaguyz LIVE Classes In Pittsburgh

2/2/2016

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Come see Shibaguyz LIVE classes at the Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Festival
​and Creative Arts Festival
March 4-6, 2016


There's still time to get in on the action but don't wait too long… register for classes today!

We're going to be sharing the skillz with you folks in Pittsburgh and we are very excited about our line up of classes. We're covering everything from specialty crochet stitches like crochet cables to design classes for crochet and knit garments. And Jason is going to be teaching his best selling class on photographing your handmade projects. If you sell your products online, submit your handmade items for juried festivals or competitions, or if you are a maker who just wants to show your handiwork in a better light, you won't want this opportunity to work one-on-one with Jason (assisted by Shannon).

Head on over to our post by clicking the link below to find out more info about our classes and how to register today!
Click Here For More Info and Registration
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Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Show 2016 Classes with the Shibaguyz!

11/30/2015

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Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Show
Classes with The Shibaguyz
March 4-6, 2016


The Shibaguyz are proud to announce that we are headlining at the Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Show and Creative Arts Festival March 4-6, 2016. WOOHOO!!

Our schedule at this year's festival include classes for crochet cable techniques, design classes for crocheters and knitters, garment making class for crochet and knitting, and our photography class that will encompass ALL of your projects from crochet & knitting, to quilting, painting, and spinning.

In addition, we've partnered up with the FAB folks at Furls Crochet Hooks and they will be sponsoring a joint Furls and Shibaguyz Designz booth. You're not going to want to miss THAT team up! If you haven't check out our friends at Furls Crochet Hooks, just click HERE and treat yourself… you deserve it.

Registration is LIVE as of Monday, November 30, 2016 so don't wait! Check out our list of class offerings below then click on the class and you will be taken to the festival website for that class. Once you are there, you can read a description of the class then click on the REGISTER NOW button at the bottom of the page to register electronically.

Classes fill up quickly so get your schedule together and register today! We can't wait to see y'all in Pittsburgh and share the skillz!

Friday, March 4, 2016 Classes

Click on the class photo to be taken to the festival page for more information and registration!
The OH! of Math class with Shannon & Jason Mullett-Bowlsby at the Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Show and Creative Arts Festival March 4-6, 2016
Stitch & Click photography class with Shannon & Jason Mullett-Bowlsby at the Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Show and Creative Arts Festival March 4-6, 2016

Saturday, March 5, 2016 Classes

Click on the class photo to be taken to the festival page for more information and registration!
Fashion, Fit, Form & Function garment design class with Shannon & Jason Mullett-Bowlsby at the Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Show and Creative Arts Festival March 4-6, 2016
Make This! Wrap Front Cardi class with Shannon & Jason Mullett-Bowlsby at the Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Show and Creative Arts Festival March 4-6, 2016

Sunday, March 6, 2016 Class

Click on the class photo to be taken to the festival page for more information and registration!
Crochet Cables class with Shannon & Jason Mullett-Bowlsby at the Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Show and Creative Arts Festival March 4-6, 2016
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Dallas Fort Worth Fiber Festival Classes With The Shibaguyz

11/14/2015

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Dallas Fort Worth Fiber Festival
​Classes With The Shibaguyz
April 1-3, 2016


It's time for us to hit the road again and share the skillz with YOU! This time, we're off to the Dallas Fort Worth Fiber Festival April 1-3, 2016. WOOHOO!!

The Shibaguyz are thrilled to be returning to the Dallas Fort Worth Fiber Festival as a team in 2016 and we're offering a VERY exciting lineup of classes for you all including classes for crochet and knitting, photography, and our special Saturday workshop for designing crochet and knit garments. And check it out… you have TWO chances to catch Jason's class on Photographing Your Fibers. You do NOT want to miss any of these exciting classes so make sure you get your registration in right now!

Registration is LIVE as of Saturday, November 14, 2016 at 10am Central Time. Don't wait! Check out our list of class offerings below then click on the REGISTER NOW button and get your class reservations in before all the seats are filled!
Here are our classes for the 2016 Dallas Fort Worth Fiber Festival. Click on the individual photos to be taken to the class description page on the DFW Fiber Festival website then click on the REGISTER NOW button to be taken to the registration page and start your class registration. If you have any problems with your registration process, please email Registrations@dfwfiberfest.org for help

See you in Texas!

Friday, April 1, 2016

The OH! of Math class with the Shibaguyz at Dallas Fort Worth Fiber Festival 2016
Crochet Cables class with the Shibaguyz at Dallas Fort Worth Fiber Festival 2016

Photography class with the Shibaguyz at Dallas Fort Worth Fiber Festival 2016

Saturday, April 2, 2016

Garment Design for Crochet and Knitting class with the Shibaguyz at Dallas Fort Worth Fiber Festival 2016

Sunday, April 3, 2016

Couture Finishing for Crochet class with the Shibaguyz at Dallas Fort Worth Fiber Festival 2016
Motif Madness crochet class with the Shibaguyz at Dallas Fort Worth Fiber Festival 2016
Photography class with the Shibaguyz at Dallas Fort Worth Fiber Festival 2016

REGISTER NOW
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Crochet & Knit Garment Design Classes with The Shibaguyz

8/26/2015

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Crochet and Knit Garment Design Classes with Shannon & Jason Mullett-Bowlsby at the 2015 New York State Sheep and Wool Festival

We receive quite a few emails requesting classes on a certain topic or a specific subject matter. And, while we can't always just jump right out there with an accommodating class, this is one instance where we are happy to say we can!

One of our most requested class subjects is in the area of designing crochet and knit garments. Unfortunately, there are quite a few folks out there who believe we can just write this up in a tutorial like teaching a new stitch or a technique. That just simply isn't the case.

Designing crochet and knit garments takes an in-depth knowledge of yarn content and construction, textile design, stitching techniques, and garment construction. There is a certain level of "design eye" that a person must have as well in order to create garments that people want to make and wear.

While we can't fit all of this into a three or even a six hour class, we do have a unique opportunity to present a big chunk of the skills it takes to design crochet and knit garments at the upcoming New York State Sheep and Wool Festival.

Capelette pattern from Designer Crochet by Shannon Mullett-Bowlsby

On Thursday and Friday at the 2015 New York State Sheep and Wool Festival, we are presenting two classes, Fashion, Fit, Form & Function and Design It! These classes can be taken separately or, as some folks are doing, as a two day course to give them the tools they need to start designing crochet and knit garments.


Fashion, Fit, Form & Function class by Shannon & Jason Mullett-Bowlsby at the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival
Click here to register for this class!
We'll kick off things on Thursday, October 15, 2015 with Fashion, Fit, Form & Function. This all-day class is designed to help you alter existing crochet and knit patterns to fit your body and your style. Whether the pattern needs a little better fit or you like the silhouette of the garment but want to use a different yarn and a different stitch pattern, we'll give you the tools you need to make good choices and then alter patterns to better fit YOU… in every way. Proper body measurements, stitch patterns, yarn choices, and garment functionality are all covered in this six-hour class.

Then, on Friday, October 16, 2015, we'll dive into our Design It! class. This all-day class covers everything from body measurements through fabric design and making a pattern schematic. You will leave with a working knowledge of crochet and knit garment design and will have the tools you need to delve into your own design work. Whether you are designing just for yourself and your friends and family or if you have always thought you had some of that "design eye" it takes to be a professional designer, this class is the place to start.
Design It! crochet and knit design class by Shannon & Jason Mullett-Bowlsby at the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival
Click here to register for this class!


Again, these are two very strong stand-alone classes with very distinct goals. So you will take away a ton of great information and skills whether you take one or both. Fashion, Fit, Form & Function focuses on fitting existing patterns to your body and your life. Design It! is focused on starting from scratch and creating your own designs. Both good classes to take on their own and are very appropriate for the hobby stitcher or professional design students.

However, if you have ever had ambitions of being a full-on crochet and knit garment pattern designer, you should consider taking the two classes together. Between the two classes, you will have a very strong foundation for developing your design skills and even becoming a professional designer… if that's what you want.

Either way, together or separate, you will leave these classes with a clearer view of how crochet and knit garment patterns are created and how to make them work for you.

For more information and our fun intro video about our classes at the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival, jump on over to our page by clicking this link:

Classes with the Shibaguyz at New York State Sheep and Wool Festival 2015

And make sure you get registered today to reserve your seat. Space is limited!

And we'll see YOU in the classroom!

Stich On!
S&J
New York State Sheep and Wool Festival 2015

Want to hire us for your next event? Wonder where we'll be teaching next? Maybe you want to take one of our online classes? Stay up to date with all of our class information on our NEW page by clicking this link:

In The Classroom With The Shibaguyz

Stay in touch! Drop in on our social media pages at the links below.
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Workshop at So Much Yarn in Seattle

8/18/2015

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Join us for an exciting full-day workshop at
So Much Yarn in Seattle!


This time we're going to be right here in our own back yard. WOOHOO!!

Join us for what is sure to be a FAB fun-filled Saturday on September 26th from 10am – 6pm.

This one is for crocheters AND knitters and will apply to men's AND women's styles… so EVERYONE is welcome!

Check out the details below about this one-of-a-kind workshop. Space for this workshop is limited so call today to reserve your seat!

If this is your first time visiting these FAB folks, So Much Yarn is located right in the Pike Place Market shops on 1st Avenue in Seattle. We've included a map below just in case.

Call 206-443-0727 today to reserve your seat and we'll see you in the classroom!!

Stitch On!!
S&J
Make This - My Perfect Cardi workshop by Shibaguyz Designz at So Much Yarn in Seattle

Make This! – My Perfect Cardi
Crochet and Knit
Men and Women
Advanced Newbie through Advanced Not-So-Newbie

Skills Required
Must know how to read a written pattern and should have a basic understanding of how a garment is put together (i.e. A garment is made up of separate parts that are put together to make one finished wearable.)

Who should take this class?
Men, women, crocheters, and knitters… this class covers you all. If you have ever wanted to make your very own custom garment, you should be in this class. If you have every wanted to understand the basics of how a garment is designed and patterned and try it for yourself, you should be in this class.

What's it all about?
The thought of making your first custom garment is a task so daunting and, seemingly, insurmountable that it can send the sturdiest stitcher into a vortex of fear and self-doubt. But fear not intrepid ones! We will stand by you and take the fear and doubt out of garment making so all you are left with is the knowledge to create a FAB finished project that will have you hooked on making your own fashionable wearables.

This class applies equally to crocheters AND knitters as well as men's AND women's styles. We use the versatile silhouette of the classic cardi to build your knowledge base for making your very own custom garment. We’ll start from scratch and design a custom made cardi just for you! Pick the stitch, the fit and the drape, apply your own measurements and… Voila! You’ll go home with the perfect pattern for the perfect multi-functional garment that will remain a classic in your wardrobe longer than those parachute pants from 1985. What?? Just me??

We will set you on the track to create your perfect cardi… whatever that might mean to you! Do you favor the luxe and stylish look of the waterfall or drape front cardi or prefer a more tailored, sharp look? Do you like long and luxurious or short and sassy? Do you see yourself in a lightweight cardi for layering or big and snuggly for getting cozy on those chilly winter days? Maybe all of the above! YOU decide and we'll help you get there!


Goals
  • Basic understanding of the design of a cardigan pattern and how to adapt that base cardigan pattern to fit YOUR needs and YOUR body

  • How to take correct measurements

  • Making a schematic based on your body measurements

  • Matching the swatch to your schematic and filling in the numbers

  • Leave with the ability to finish your custom pattern


Homework
10x10” BLOCKED crochet or knit swatch in the stitch pattern and yarn you want to make your cardi in (if you can’t decide, bring two… or three…).

Supplies To Bring To Class
•       Crochet or Knit kit with yarn needle and scissors
•       Notebook
•       Writing utensil
•       Small amount of scrap yarn (a few yards should be fine)… nothing fancy here. We're going to be using it as a measuring tool.
•       Tailor’s measuring tape (soft, non-metalic measuring tape)

Materials Fees: $5.00 – Includes pattern template with measurement and sizing charts; calculation worksheet.


Be sure to keep up with the Shibaguyz via our social media feeds… we'd love to hear from you!

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Technique Tuesday Tutorial - Natural Light Photography: Your "Window" to Great Fiber Photos

4/14/2015

1 Comment

 
Crochet, knitting, and photography tutorials by Shannon & Jason Mullett-Bowlsby of Shibaguyz Designz & Shibaguyz Photography

Photographing in Natural Window Light For Great Shots
- a guest post by Jason Mullett-Bowlsby, owner of Shibaguyz Photography

I'm Baaaaaack. 
Shannon's been busy doing designer stuff and asked me to come up with a post that you would find enlightening.  So I took that suggestion to heart and decided upon taking a look at... light. 
Very specifically, the light coming in your windows.

Natural light has made a comeback, not only for amateurs but for pros as well. I love it.  It’s warm, it’s easy to manipulate, and it’s free!  Natural light is the new look for portraits of newborns to seniors, and it’s popping up more and more in fashion photography. With minimal equipment anyone with a basic camera (even a camera phone) can take exceptional indoor images utilizing nothing more than a window. So, how do you nail it?

The key to great fiber photography with window light is as simple as  using your eyes. Look at what’s in front of you, decide if you like it. If not adjust it to suit your taste. It’s that easy!  Let's do it.

Natural light photography tips for taking the best photos of your crochet and knitting projects – by Shibaguyz Photography

Step 1: Find A Window
Natural light photography tips for taking the best photos of your crochet and knitting projects – by Shibaguyz Photography
The direction of it does not matter. Many photographers insist on having a northern or eastern exposure, but I find any direction will work. The trick is you have to wait for the moment when the light is right.  You should have bright light without direct light hitting your subject.  For my living room shots, this generally happens between 11:00am and 3:00pm.  Because I live in Seattle where we have a lot of cloudy days, my shooting schedule can be augmented depending on if the clouds keep the sun in check. 

One important note… I recommend you turn off all interior lights if possible. They may cause a color balance shift making your garment’s color look off.


Step 2: Initial Position
Natural light photography tips for taking the best photos of your crochet and knitting projects – by Shibaguyz Photography
This Cabled Top from Designer Crochet was photographed in my living room directly in front of a large window. See how it's slightly angled allowing some shadows to fall?
It should be obvious, but I’ll say it nonetheless, you can’t move the window, so you’ll need to move your subject to control where the light hits. Positioning your subject directly in front of the window will give you’ll get flat, even light with little shadow, but you can run into problems if the shadow from you or your camera falls on the subject, and sometimes because the light is flat you lose texture. A better option is to position your subject so that the window is just to one side of it on an angle.  This is called Side Lighting



Google "Window Light Portrait"... go ahead we'll wait here...

What did you see?  The massive majority of images show side lighting.  It's flattering to almost every subject. This kind of side lighting set-up will help accentuate any soft lighting streaming across the fabric of your subject which is perfect for enhancing the texture in crochet and knit items. Side lighting is also ideal if you decide to use any kind of a light modifier like bounces and diffusers. Bounces are positioned on the opposite side of the light source, (i.e. further inside the room) bouncing light back to the shadowed side of your subject.  They help lighten any strong shadows, acting like a miniature light source.
Pro Tip: Budget Bounces
You don’t need to go broke buying professional bounces to get the “perfect shot”. You can easily get impressive results with a few of sheets of basic card stock, aka "poster board" (available from an office supply store or any store with a craft section).  I always carry one plain white piece and another covered in aluminum foil for bouncing light where I want more. Occasionally I’ll use a black piece for intensifying shadows.  That’s it… just pieces of thick paper.

Step 3: Final placement of your subject
Natural light photography tips for taking the best photos of your crochet and knitting projects – by Shibaguyz Photography
Bringing the dress form closer to the window increased the highlights in this lace helping it to stand out more.
Moving your subject closer to or further away from the window is going to change the “contrast” in the lighting.  Contrast is the difference between the dark and light portions of your photo. Being closer to the window increases contrast, thus increasing the difference between the lit side and the shadow side of the subject. Moving it away is going to reduce the effect.  Be careful here. If you move too far away there is a chance your subject will look dull and flat. The sweet spot is usually a couple feet away depending on how bright it is outside.


NOTE: Pay attention to the sun. Just because we’re inside doesn’t mean we can ignore it. Remember as the sun moves the positive effects of window light will go down the tubes if harsh sunlight starts pouring in. You want light, but not at a direct angle. If the sun is raging in you’re going to have over-exposed highlights and hard ugly shadows on your subject. It’s easy to see when that occurs. If that happens, you have three options:
1. Place a soft curtain or otherwise gauzy piece of fabric over the window to lessen the effect of the hard light (this is called diffusing). Diffusers are placed between the light and the subject to help scatter harsh direct light into softer light with reduced shadows. Think of how sheer curtains in a window soften hard light scattering it.


2. Wait for the hard light to move out of the window.


3. Go to another window that faces another direction. The sun can’t be on all four sides of the house at once!
Natural light photography tips for taking the best photos of your crochet and knitting projects – by Shibaguyz Photography
I used a simple curtain to block the worst of the harsh summer afternoon light coming in this window. It allowed softer light to wrap around the dress form and made a nice background too!

Step 4: Take your photo. 
Natural light photography tips for taking the best photos of your crochet and knitting projects – by Shibaguyz Photography
Focus on your subject and adjust the exposure and focus on the garment.  Placing yourself so the window is in your photo will sometimes over-expose that part of the photo, which is a justifiable style choice. I recommend you move around taking your photo from different placements.  If you don’t like the composition, move yourself again or move your subject until it looks perfect.  Be sure to check your photos in your camera and on a computer before you break down your set.

That’s all there is to it… It’s time to find yourself a suitable window and a simple subject to experiment with different placements.  You’ll be amazed how small changes will improve your shots.
Natural light photography tips for taking the best photos of your crochet and knitting projects – by Shibaguyz Photography

And that, friends, is why it is FAB to have a professional photographer in the family. Also why it's FAB to have a second person here in the studio. One of us can be buried in projects (like I am RIGHT NOW!) while the other passes along FAB info like this.



Want to see more of Jason's work? Check out his website at ShibaguyzPhotography.com.

Want more training with Jason? You got it! He has two webinars available online from F&W Media and the Interweave Store. Together these two webinars are a FAB starter pack for anyone wanting to take better photos of their projects… or just better photos in general! Here are the links:

How to Create a DIY Photo Studio: Get Professional Results at Home!
and
Photographing Your Projects Like a Pro

All the details about the classes are at the links.

Thanks for stopping by another Technique Tuesday Tutorial! We love sharing the skillz with our community and hope you all enjoy adding new skillz to your toolbox.

Drop us a line and let us know what you'd like to see in future tutorials and you might see your idea right here in a future Technique Tuesday Tutorial!

talk to you soon…
S&J
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In the Classroom With the Shibaguyz - New York State Sheep and Wool Festival 2015

4/1/2015

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In the Classroom with The Shibaguyz

In the Classroom With the Shibaguyz

New York State Sheep and Wool Festival

October 15-18, 2015

Rhinebeck BAY-BEEEE!!


Shibaguyz Designz is proud to announce we will be teaching at the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY, October 15–18, 2015. WOOHOO!!

Rhinebeck BAY-BEEEE!!

(We're thinking about getting t-shirts with that printed on them… too much??)

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We’ve been selected to teach 6 classes beginning Thursday morning and going right through to Sunday evening.  This is our first year teaching at Rhinebeck and we could not be more excited to have this opportunity to share the skillz with y'all in such a FAB setting!

Our classes range from all day sessions on crochet & knitting design on Thursday and Friday to photography, crochet, and math on Saturday and Sunday. We wrap everything up on Sunday with, appropriately, our very popular Foundations and Finishing class for crocheters. What a weekend!

We are so looking forward to spending a few FAB days with out in Rhinebeck! Here's a quick lineup of our classes. 


UPDATE 05/11/15: Registration is LIVE! Register NOW for classes before they sell out. You can get more details and register for our classes at Rhinebeck here:
New York State Sheep and Wool Festival Website


To be sure you don't miss out, sign up for our newsletter here: Shibaguyz Newsletter Sign Up
Fashion, Fit, Form & Function class by the Shibaguyz at New York State Sheep and Wool Festival 2015
Stitch and Click class by the Shibaguyz at New York State Sheep and Wool Festival 2015
The OH! of Math class by the Shibaguyz at New York State Sheep and Wool Festival 2015
Design It! class by the Shibaguyz at New York State Sheep and Wool Festival 2015
Beginning Crochet class by the Shibaguyz at New York State Sheep and Wool Festival 2015
Foundation and Finishing class by the Shibaguyz at New York State Sheep and Wool Festival 2015

You can read in-depth descriptions on our Classes page here: Shibaguyz Classes

And full details will be up on the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival website once registration opens here: New York State Sheep and Wool Festival Website

Remember: Registration opens sometime around May 1, 2015 so mark these pages and get your registration in before classes fill up! Classes are expected to sell out so you’ll want to register for classes early to ensure a seat.

UPDATE 05/11/15: Class registration is LIVE! Register today to ensure your seat here: New York State Sheep and Wool Festival Class Registration


We will keep you informed when the registration goes live and give you links to each of our classes… but save those dates in October and we'll see you in the classroom at Rhinebeck!

Be sure to not miss out on future announcements about this and other events as well as special offers and exclusive tutorials you won't see on our website. Sign up for our newsletter today and we'll keep you up to date so you don't miss a thing! (It goes without saying that we never sell your email addresses… right? There… we said it anyway.)

Sign up is easy… just click here: Shibaguyz Newsletter Sign Up


Stitch On!!
S&J


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Moonstruck Knitwear Collection Patterns Re-Released As Individual Downloads

3/13/2015

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10 Knitwear Patterns from the Moonstruck collection re-released as individual downloads available NOW in the Shibaguyz Designz Pattern Store.
Picture it… Columbus 2012. A rugged young designer and a dashing photographer meet with two intrepid owners of a line of yarn. They laugh; They plan; They drink a lot of wine. The result of that meeting appeared roughly one year later, in the form of a pattern book - Moonstruck: Ten Sensuous Knit Patterns Sized Small to 5X. Folks, I was that designer… Jason was that photographer… and the owners of the line of yarn were the FAB ladies from Mango Moon Yarns.   

Forgive my Golden Girls moment there, all kidding aside, y'all know we love a clean, elegant design, and patterns that fit the body perfectly. When we went into collaboration with Mango Moon Yarns we knew that someday we’d have the pleasure of selling these exquisite patterns on our own site as individual downloads. I’m thrilled to announce that that day is TODAY!

10 Knitwear Patterns from the Moonstruck collection re-released as individual downloads available NOW in the Shibaguyz Designz Pattern Store.
Yes, the 10 patterns from Moonstruck are now available as individual patterns (but you can still order the book too). We think this collection has the whole package going on, referring to our mantra of Fashion, Fit, Form, and Function. There is something to fit every woman’s style and shape. Chic, classic, and elegant designs with a timelessness that will make these knitwear pieces a staple in your wardrobe for years to come.

Below is a glimpse at each of the designs. Click on the link or the photo to go to the individual pattern pages where you can see more photos and all the details about creating your own Moonstruck masterpiece.
Click the Read More link below to see all the details.

Read More
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Shibaguyz Designz Wants YOU

1/29/2015

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Shibaguyz Designz Needs YOU to Build a Better Community

There's a lot of good things happening at Shibaguyz Designz and we're looking for folks to partner with to build our community and share in the fun!

Attention bloggers, editors, podcasters, event promoters, fiber-related businesses, and anyone who might have a sky writing company! Okay… that last one might be a stretch… but, hey, you never know until you ask!

Shibaguyz Designz is looking for folks who like to talk about all things crochet and knit for some upcoming events and book tours. Whether you work in the virtual world of the internet (or the Matrix) or the physical world (preferably on this earthly dimension), we want to talk to you.

There's a LOT going on at Shibaguyz Designz and we are looking for good folks to partner up with for book tours, product reviews, events, promotions, and general FAB happenings. We love the community we have become a part of over the past five years and we can't think of better people to work with to get the word out.

If you have a fun blog, a podcast, own a yarn shop or promote an event, drop us a note via our Contact Us page and let us know who you are and what you do. If your community is a good fit with our community, we'll get back to you with more info and dates and such so we can start making plans!

Designer Crochet: 32 patterns to elevate your style by Shannon Mullett-Bowlsby


Right now we are working on events for the release of our NEW book, Designer Crochet, coming out in April from Sterling Publishing. WOOHOO!!

For our book release, we're going to be looking for book reviewers (bloggers, podcasters, makers… that's YOU!) and folks to work on a FAB sponsored giveaway we are doing around the pre-release of the book. We are also setting up workshops based on Designer Crochet, as well as book signings, and trunk shows.



Want to review one of our online classes or webinars? We have those opportunities as well related to our Craftsy and Interweave classes.

We also have a few events where we are conducting workshops that offer some unique sponsorship opportunities and we would love to chat with your company about getting involved.

Quick and Easy Crochet Cables - Craftsy Crochet Class by Shannon Mullett-Bowlsby
How to Create a DIY Photo Studio - Interweave Photography Webinar by Jason and Shannon Mullett-Bowlsby
Oh yeah… and there are a TON of opportunities for fun around National Crochet Month and National Craft Month coming up this spring. See… so much FAB happening!!

Have some ideas we haven't thought of before? We LOVE creative thinkers! Don't be shy about creative ideas for promotions and events.

So… wanna come along for the fun? We'd love to have you with us!

Just go to the Contact Us form and let us know how we can get in touch with you. We'll be planning and scheming the fun times right away!

Looking forward to a FAB 2015 (and beyond!) working with you all!

Stitch On!
S&J

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Spring Is Coming!

1/22/2015

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Spring Is Coming! Crochet and Knitting Patterns for Spring by Shibaguyz Designz

This is no GAME! Don't let your spring be STARK because you were DRAGON and didn't start your crochet and knitting project early enough!


(Here's some mood music to listen to while you read on. Peter Hollens is an AMAZING talent. Worth checking out.)
Click the "Read More" link below to read the full story.

Read More
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Technique Tuesday Tutorial – Wet Blocking Crochet and Knit Fabrics by Soaking

1/13/2015

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Technique Tuesday - Step-by-step crochet and knitting photo tutorials by Shibaguyz Designz

Technique
How to Wet Block Crochet and Knit Fabrics by Soaking


What is it?
Generally, blocking is the method for shaping and setting the stitches of crochet and knit fabrics. During blocking, the fibers of the fabric are relaxed and allowed to bloom through the introduction of water in the form of steam, spritzing, washing, or soaking.

How to Wet Block Crochet and Knit Fabrics by Soaking. A free step-by-step photo tutorial by Shibaguyz Designz
By that definition ALL blocking is wet blocking since all blocking involves the introduction of water into the fibers used to create the crochet or knit fabric. Attempting to block your fabrics without any type of moisture is only going to pull and stretch your stitches out of shape and will not result in an evenly blocked finished piece. Introducing water into your fabrics is the all-important first step of blocking.

Specifically, for today's tutorial, we are going to be covering the steps for soaking your fabrics for blocking.


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Technique Tuesday – Weaving In the Ends On Your Knitting Projects

12/23/2014

 
Technique Tuesday - Step-by-step crochet and knitting photo tutorials by Shibaguyz Designz

How To Weave In the Ends Of Yarn Tails On Your Knitting Projects


Technique
Weaving in the ends on your knitting projects.

What is it?
At the end of projects and anywhere a new length of yarn is joined, there is a tail of yarn remaining that must woven in. This instruction is often at the end of a pattern written as: Weave in ends.

Weaving in the end of a tail of yarn secures the yarn tail so it does not come unraveled and hides the tail so it cannot be seen.

Technique Tuesday - A free step-by-step photo tutorial for How To Weave In the Ends Of Yarn Tails In Knit Fabric by Shibaguyz Designz

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Technique Tuesday – 4 Techniques For Blocking Crochet and Knit Fabrics

12/2/2014

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Technique Tuesday - Step-by-step crochet and knitting photo tutorials by Shibaguyz Designz

Four Techniques for How To Block Your Crochet and Knit Fabrics


Technique
Four Ways to Block Crochet and Knit Fabrics


What is it?
Blocking is the process of introducing moisture into a fabric in order to finish that fabric. Blocking allow fabric fibers to bloom and wake up lending their true nature to the finished fabric. Blocking also allows the finished fabric to be shaped and sized according the finished dimensions of a pattern or in order to open up and set a stitch pattern.

Four Techniques for How To Block Your Crochet and Knit Fabrics – a step-by-step tutorial by Shibaguyz Designz


Read More
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What To Crochet or Knit For THAT Guy

11/20/2014

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Trying to think of something special to make for THAT guy? We have a few suggestions for you.


If you maintain a website of any sort and have analytics software hooked up to it, you know there is a section in that analysis that tells you what words someone put into a search engine that lead them to your site. We see the usual search terms like…

What to Crochet or Knit For THAT Guy – a handmade gift guide for men by Shibaguyz Designz
"How to make the Foundation Single Crochet stitch"

And…


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Technique Tuesday – Knit and Crochet Q and A

11/18/2014

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Technique Tuesday - Step-by-step crochet and knitting photo tutorials by Shibaguyz Designz

Answers To Your Top 3 Questions About the Technique Tuesday Crochet & Knitting Tutorials


We've been going strong for a few months now with our Technique Tuesday crochet and knitting tutorials and, naturally, y'all have had some questions. Most of the questions have been answerable via a quick email but a few others have stood out as needing a little more attention.

In the interest of helping Build Your Skillz, we've picked the three questions asked most often or that provided the best opportunity for teaching a more specific detail of our tutorials.


Here is our first ever, Knit & Crochet Q&A!
Answers To Your Top 3 Questions About the Technique Tuesday Crochet and Knitting Tutorials


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Women's Ribbed Edge Knit Vest Knitting Pattern

10/16/2014

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New From the Studios of Shibaguyz Designz - Crochet and Knitting Patterns and few of a kind bespoke garments for men and women by Shibaguyz Designz

Women's Ribbed Edge Knit Vest knitting pattern by Shibaguyz Designz


It's been a while since we've released a new knitting pattern into the wild so we thought we'd send this little beauty along to y'all.

We love the striking looks and cozy feel of this vest and we designed it with YOU, the wearer, in mind.

Here are a few details about what went on in the making of this design and the pattern.
Women's Ribbed Edge Knit Vest Knitting Pattern by Shibaguyz Designz - knitting pattern digital download includes pattern for sizes small through 3X and schematic

About the Yarn

We originally designed this vest in Plymouth Yarn Grande Glow which has a subtle hint of Stelina in it… that means there's a little SPARKLE to it or, as the name implies, a little GLOW.

Also as the name implies, Plymouth Yarn Grande Glow is a GRANDE yarn… meaning it is a bulky weight yarn weighing in at a healthy CYCA 5.

 And, yes, Plymouth Yarn Grande Glow is 97% Baby Alpaca. Folks… that means this yarn feels oh so soft next to your skin. Seriously… just get a case of it and dive into it. You're welcome.


Read More
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In The Classroom with Shibaguyz Designz - Knit Fit 2014

8/28/2014

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Class Details and Registration Information for Shibaguyz Designz Classes at Knit Fit 2014


NOTE: This post was updated on October 22, 2014 to reflect the new date for the Motif Madness class. All information in this post is correct as of October 22, 2014. - S&J
In the Classroom with Shibaguyz Designz
It's that time again… Back to School! Okay… not exactly THAT kind of school but it is time to head back into the classroom and build those stitching skills!

As a designer, I spend most of my time in the studio, sketching, writing, and… well… doing designy things (yes… I made up another word…). When Jason isn't in his studio, he is always running off to shoot photos of some event or someone marking a momentous occasion with a photo session.

As teachers, we get to interact with crocheters and knitters who look to us to help them build their skills. Whether they are hobby stitchers or looking to become designers, it is always a thrill for us to take a classroom full of students on a journey during a class session.

Fortunately, we have the opportunity to teach at some great events and Knit Fit right here in Seattle is one of our favorites. This year we are honored to be teaching for the third year at Knit Fit and we have two FAB classes to share with y'all.

This year, we are proud to be offering a student favorite: Fashion, Fit, Form, & Function; as well as a new-to-Knit-Fit class: Motif Madness. Here is a little about each class and the links to register.

Motif Madness! (Crochet)
Teachers: Shannon & Jason Mullett-Bowlsby (Saturday AM)

From hexes to circles to granny squares… motifs make us happy with all of their colors and textures and versatility. They can be anything from couture garments to a cozy afghan to a funky vest or skirt or a car cover for your sedan, or rugs or hats or jackets or sweaters or… There’s hardly anything the enduring and endearing motif can’t do.

We will start with a basic chain circle and work our way outward to granny glory, beginning with basic color changes then get a little funky with in-line color changes and maybe even delve into the mysterious spiral!  We will also learn three ways of starting your motifs for ultimate versatility, and three ways to join your motifs together.

Skill level: All
Homework: None
Materials Fee: None
Student-supplied materials:
• Crochet kit with various hook sizes
• Light-colored, non-variegated, smooth, worsted weight yarn (no kitchen cottons or similar types of cotton yarns)
Motif Madness Class by Shibaguyz Designz at Knit Fit 2015

Fashion, Fit, Form, and Function Class by Shibaguyz Designz at Knit Fit 2015
Fashion, Fit, Form & Function: Designing Garments for Everyone (Crochet & Knitting)
Teachers: Shannon & Jason Mullett-Bowlsby  (Sunday PM)

There are a million patterns in the naked city… and wouldn’t it be nice if just ONE of them fit?!


We will teach you the basics of fit, form and function that we use daily as fashion designers so you can see a garment and make it for yourself or someone else. You will create a template that you will be able to use for every garment you ever want to make… EVER. No matter whom you are making for, no matter what the body type, you will be able to create a garment that anyone would be thrilled to wear.

We will start with measurements and form – what measurements do I take from where and how do I apply them to my template? Then we’ll talk about fit – how do I make a garment that fits a certain style or body type? Then we’ll move to function – whom am I making this for and where will they wear it? Finally… fabrics – how to take your swatch and convert that into a pattern.

Skill level: All
Homework: None
Materials Fee: $5 for Master Pattern template, sizing chart, and calculation formulas.
Student-supplied materials:
• Soft (non-metal) measuring tape
• Notebook
• Pencil
• Calculator

Registration is open NOW and classrooms do fill up from time to time so be sure to get your registration in early to reserve your space. You can register for our classes by clicking on the photos above and then clicking on the "REGISTER NOW" link. Or, go to http://knitfit.info and register from there.

We do love teaching and we always have a lot of fun in class. We hope you can come be a part of the learning process with us!

See you at Knit Fit!

Stitch On!
S&J

We hope you enjoy our articles and posts here on Shibaguyz Designz and hope you will share them with other stitchers. Take a minute to look around and check out our other posts as well as our patterns and books in our online shop. Here are a few suggestions for you we thought you might like. Just click on one of the photos below to open the link! Enjoy!

We'd love to hear from you! Leave a comment to this post and catch up with us on Ravelry, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest by clicking on one of these icons.
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