The wait is over! Twinkie Chan's second book, Crochet Abode a la mode has hit the stores! Her first foray into food patterns concentrated mostly on accessories to adorn your body. In the new book we are once again privileged to get a glimpse into the mind of one of the most unique fiber artists of our time. Twinkie has compiled twenty new patterns to decorate your home. She's purposely selected yarns that are available from your local craft stores, or big box retailers. Most of the yarn is easy to locate, and purchase. Twelve out of the twenty patterns utilize Red Heart yarns. Some of the yarns used include Red Heart Super Saver, Red Heart With Love, Red Heart Soft, and Creme de la Creme. Recently I had the chance to meet up with Twinkie and ask her some questions. Janice Ogata: How do you come up with your ideas and patterns? Twinkie Chain: First I draw a sketch, and then try to break down my idea into very easy shapes, and then I crochet the shapes. At this point there is a lot of frogging (ripping back) going on until I get the shape that I like. JO: What are some of your favorite patterns in the book? TC: I tend to drink a lot of tea, and hot chocolate, so one of my favorite patterns is the "Coffee Cup Dishcloth." This one was a bit of a challenge getting it to be the shape I wanted. I'm happy with the way it turned out. I also like the "Licorice Allsorts Afghan" because of all the bright and cheery colors. Plus I don't really have the patience to make a whole afghan, and this one can be done just by making squares, so you don't have to weight of the whole afghan on your lap as you are working. JO: What have you been up to since the first book was published? TC: I was working with various companies, and other projects. I tend to do a lot of craft shows in Northern California. When I first pitched the idea for a second book the publishers wanted it to be different from the first book, so I suggested we do projects for the home. There's a little bit of everything, some items are for the kitchen, and some for the living room, there are even some items for the bathroom. Indeed there is a little bit of everything in this book. There are waffle, egg, and coffee dishcloths, a banana split throw pillow, and frosted animal cookie garland for your living room. In the bathroom who wouldn't want to cover their extra toilet paper roll with a Birthday Cake Toilet Paper Cozy? The book appeals to the childlike whimsy in all of us, and the items inside would make great gifts for your family and friends. There's still plenty of time to get started on Holiday gifts. Keep up with Twinkie on all her social media formats. She's on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube, and has her own website.
