Polka Dots Baby Set Pattern

After coming back to the crafting world, I felt super charged and ready to create! I have the BIGGEST problem with figuring out what to make, and following through.

I'm the type that finds a million projects, when in the middle of the order, but zero motivation or inspiration, once the order is finished. Pretty much, I work really well with a deadline, and orders that have to be made, but I struggle with personal projects.

To combat this problem, I requested my friends and loved ones to send me suggestions.

The Requirements:

1. It must be knit
2. It must be a free pattern
3. No socks, or blankets (avoid large projects)
4. You must send the link to the pattern

It's the same as me asking a person for a book recommendation, it cost them absolutely nothing to send me a link to a free pattern to make. Also, I'm not affiliated with any of the websites, nor pattern creators they went to, to find these potential projects. This is NOT an ad.

I'm still taking recommendations, but I do have a list of projects I am currently working on for this series. If you would like to make a suggestion for me to create, feel free to leave a comment on this blog, or go to my Instagram and send me a private message with your suggestion.

Click Here for My Instagram

So what did I create?

This pattern, is the Polka Dots Baby Set Pattern, found on Ravelry.com. As previously stated this is a free, knit pattern, and I am not affiliated with the site, pattern artist, or in anything else in any way.

This was an easy and straightforward knit, it took me about 4 days to create, but if I didn't have a 4 month old little girl, it would have taken me 2 days easily.

I decided to alter the pattern a little, where I only did a few polka dots at the midsection of the jacket, and a row at the bottom, instead of the entire bottom portion. I also added two rows to the bottom of each sleeves, instead of the entire bottom of the sleeves.

You can do what you wish, when making this pattern.

I found it very nice how simple everything was described, as well as the 2 options they give you for the buttonholes.

The pattern includes two size options, and I ended up making this one 6-9 months, as my little girl is already fitting comfortably in 6 month sizes. Because it is 6 to 9, the sleeves are a little long, so she has some room to grow in this.

Unfortunately, it is summer in Texas here, so it will be a few months before we will get to use this little jacket casually. The pattern has a good amount of stretch, so I do not see any issue with being able to use this, once fall hits!

Do I recommend this pattern?

Absolutely! As an added bonus this jacket, has a matching hat and booties, also included within the pattern. I just chose not to make them, as my daughter is hot natured enough, but I could see that as an adorable set for another little cutie!

If you decide to create this pattern, I would LOVE to see! If you want to tag me on Instagram, I wouldn't be upset about it <3 br="">
The next project is already in the works, stay tuned for that!

Knit by me; Pattern by Lola's Patterns

I've been a bit busy testing out new designs for amazing pattern artists. Trying to get as much crafting done as possible, which is a bit of a venture with an almost 4 month old.

This is the Kai Bonnet, made with a DK weight yarn. Newborn.

A fun little pattern with a good amount of texture, that knits up quickly. The ties are simple by design, but you can easily switch it up with any method you prefer.

This bonnet may look a little more complicated than it actually is. Although, I would say this pattern is a set above beginner, intermediate, and reads easily.

I have one more bonnet, this time in a Sitter size, to work up.

Look forward to seeing that creation in the near future.



If you would like me to shoot something of yours, or test out a pattern you've created, please feel free to send me a message on my Facebook business page!

Hand Knit by Me; Pattern by Cherry Blossom Knits

 Something I love doing when I have nothing on my books, is test patterns. Another thing I love doing, is help out fellow creators.

These two images are of my most recent creations, I've knit up, with the help of amazing pattern artists.

The first is a beautiful romper, my baby girl so graciously modeled for me. We captured more of this romper, and posted to my Instagram. Feel free to check it out! This pattern was sent to me by it's creator solely so I could create her the romper, and take some in use images of it. It came out so cute, and I think I will have to use it for some outdoor time, and more photos in the near future!

Hand knit by me; Pattern by Lola's Patterns

The next was a beautiful pattern I tested for a wonderful creator. This took me a bit out of my comfort zone, but I'm not complaining. There is something so breathtaking by dainty stitch work and yarn, combine the two, and you're just asking for trouble.

I cannot get enough of this pattern, and it was so very fun to test. This little number is newborn size, and my baby is well into 6 month clothing. I will have to instead send it out to a photographer friend, to receive in use images to put into my shop, but believe you me, I would totally put this on my tiny goddess, if it was sized to her.

I absolutely love testing patterns, and capturing images for fellow creators. I have a few more projects on my books. Some of my own ideas, too.

So look forward to more popping up, soon!





If you would like me to shoot something of yours, or test out a pattern you've created please feel free to send me a message on my Facebook business page!

A look into the world of AshleysHomeSpun

I won't lie, my favorite thing about my house has got to be my little craft room. It's seen somethings throughout the years. It didn't start out as a full room mind you. It originally was 1 ball of local alpaca yarn and a handmade crochet hook, when I was 11.

When I was 14 it evolved into a bag of yarn, with a small collection of knitting needles. Before I knew it, it was a couple of 3 drawered, clear, roll away storage containers, at 17.

When I got married at the age of 20, it was our second bedroom, in our apartment, mixed with my photography gear and props.

When we moved into our first home a year later. It got it's elbow room, and took over my photography stuff. The photography equipment would move to the guest room, and the craftroom would fully realize...until at the age of 26 we required a nursery!

Now we are in need of a bigger home, and we shall sees what lies in store for my little office space.

Other side of the same space. I spy a hat tree!

I often forget the things I have gathered, as they are such staples in the room, now. That small 2 by 3 shelf was created by my little brother, when he was still in highschool, as a Christmas gift.

The hat tree was a find at an antique mall, it is actually a "bottle Christmas tree". The picture was of my first session I did for my niece. The memories are all flooding back.

When I sit in that chair, I often find myself writing in a notebook. Be it my new ideas or my plan of attack for when orders flood in, and I rarely find myself crafting in it. I usually reserved that for the very cushy bean bag I keep in the middle of the room. (Removed for photo).

Supply Announcement

Nothing made me more upset, than when the big box supplier stopped carrying these buttons. It kept saying "restocking soon" on the website, and in the actual store. So I went out and found the source, and much to my delight, I was able to order as many as I needed!

I needed them for my "newsboys" hats, one of my old top sellers. Once the buttons came back, I couldn't contain my excitement, and just had to toss them in my with all my idea yarn for an official announcement!

I used to keep all my "idea yarn" in a big bowl, along with various tools I needed. It was bulky, crowded, and messy. Really just so unnecessary!

Big Bowl of "Idea Yarn"

 My idea yarn took over my bowl, no more room for thoughts, let along inspiration. So it was retired to only hold LYS (local yarn store) and Indie Dyers fibers.

After making this decision, I went back to project bag and never looked back!

The Cash Book of my dreams

After making 5 rompers, 4 in newborn, and 1 in 6 months sizes, I decided to do something artsy. I borrowed my best friends vintage cash book, and snapped a few photos of my hard work. Dreaming of being the type of person that could keep up with such a thing. Alas, I had to return it, and get back to work.

To be honest, I kind of wish I had a more raw version of this production. Something about a messy desk, means more to me, now.

My very first behind the scenes image, 9 years ago.

When Etsy Chatrooms were still a thing! I met myself a spinner of yarn, and I fell in love with her shop. I would go on to buy a few more things from her, before her stuff would sell out the moment it went  up.

She is no longer on Etsy, so trying to track her down will be a bit of a challenge, I'm afraid.


I'll continue to post more behind the scenes as I move forward, from now on! Stuff that is more raw, and less polished! My thoughts in the moment, and what I am doing right then.

I hope this shows you more of my head space, with this post. Where as I plan on the next behind the scenes to be more about the process!

Giveaways will be back, after our nap

Check Back Later

Don't be upset! No Sales or Coupons at this time

Come back later!

This is a photo I took of my daughter, wearing a swimsuit I got from a fellow crafter, in a trade!
Click here to buy one for yourself!

You read that right! Free Stuff, and how to get it!

I've decided to open up myself for those looking to get free products of mine or others, and answer all the FAQs that go with that.

I've been in the crafting business for 11 years, now, and I've gotten my fair share of people asking to take home one of my creations in exchange for exposure, photos, or trades. I've also been asked to put some of my creations in giveaways, or as donations.

Please read the following to understand how to receive any product for free, and how to find others that might be willing to send you a goodie or two.

FAQ

How do I get free stuff?

Nothing in life is truly free, but sometimes you can be given things at no cost to you, in exchange for exposure, photos or other items. Ask yourself what do you have to offer, and proceed below!

How do I get free stuff with exposure, or promotion?

Do you have a large audience that will be interested in the things you want to get? Then exposure, or "promotion" may be what you need to offer, to get what you want.

Come to whomever you are interested in working with, professionally. No sob stories, and understand that you may get turned down, and even ghosted. No one owes you anything. Exposure doesn't pay the bills, so unless you have over a hundred thousand, to a million or more followers, you may get turned away, every time. But don't be discouraged, having a few thousand followers will also work, and will be better odds, than if you only have a few hundred. Real, engaged followers, too. Not bots.

Also, it makes no sense to give baby clothes to someone who's main demographic is children and teens. If your audience isn't interested in what you want to promote, then the promotion will be a big miss, for both you and the individual/business you're working with.

You will need to know what terms you're going to offer, to get the item(s) you want to shout out. Be realistic, don't guarantee the world, and don't under offer. A story post is going to get a lot less exposure than a post on your main feed. Also, don't forget your #ad!



How do I get free stuff with photos?

This is a lot different than exposure or promotion. This will require professional photography knowledge or access to a professional photographer.

I personally trade with photographers for my creations, all the time. I also I trade with crafters for my photos, too.

I have 9 years experience in the photography world, and 11 in the crafting world. I know what I'm doing, and point and click will not do it. Neither will that "nice camera" you bought and used twice, you need a photographer's eye, and skill to do product shots. Especially, product shots done on real people! Your photo needs to sell the object in it, and not distract from the object.

I hear you saying, "I'm a pro, or an upcoming pro!" In that case, there are groups designed for photo exchanges, to meet new photographers and crafters. But you can still reach out to the shops, companies, and businesses you want to shoot for.

You'll also have to be prompt, if you leave your partner hanging for weeks or months, you will sour the relationship, and word will spread quickly. Don't make a name for yourself as someone that doesn't deliver. You may be asked to sign a contract, this is normal, keep your end of the deal!

Reach out, and show examples of your work, and ask for their product in exchange for professional images. Make sure you watermark your work! (A small transparent watermark will do, don't be obnoxious with it's placement and size.) [See above photo for an example of a tasteful watermark]

No sob stories, and understand that you may get turned down, and even ghosted. No one owes you their creations, time, or even a response.



How do I get free stuff with my own stuff? (AKA Trades)

So you're also a crafter, artist, or creator of some sort? Awesome!

This is actually pretty simple. You can join "trade" groups, to find a direct line to others willing to sell you their creation(s), at the price of your creation(s).

But you can also go around and ask others on social media, in private messages, if they would be up to trade. You will need to have something they are interested in, of course. So make sure you have good, clear images of your items. You'll be in charge of shipping the item to them, make sure you get tracking, and arrange a day that you both ship.

No sob stories, and understand that you may get turned down, and even ghosted. No one owes you their creations, time, or even a response.



If they turn me down, when should I ask again?
You shouldn't ask again. If they say no, it's a no. Let them come to you, if they change their minds.



Is there an easier way to get them to say yes?
Yes, but it's not guaranteed. No one is entitled to give you anything for free. But a better way to offer your exposure, photography, or trade and get an agreement in return is by first supporting the artist.

Paying for their work at full price, don't ask for discounts, is a great way to build a relationship. Small businesses rely on their customers, to pay the bills. If you are a loyal and returning customer, and have something to offer back, odds are you will get a yes for an exchange.

Another great way, is buying from them, full price, not asking for discounts, and sending them in use photos, and/or giving them exposure, unprompted! I cannot tell you how many photographer customers of mine, became photographer partners by doing just that!



I'm hosting a giveaway, how do I get people to contribute?

If you want people to add to your giveaway, go ask! You'll need a HUGE following, for this to be successful, and the giveaway items won't be given to you. The people that add their time, shop credits, or freebies will send all of that to the winner.

You'll also need to offer those that contribute compensation, too. In example, the people that want to win will need to follow everyone's social medias, join their mailing list, or whatever is best for them.



Is there any way to get things for free, without putting in so much work?

Not really. I only donate to local, reputable places. If you are in dire need of necessities, please seek out resources in your area.




How do I get free stuff from you?

If you read the above, you will now know how to get freebies from me!

So, now you know what to do, for your situation, please message me on my Instagram! We might be able to work out a deal! I'm always looking for new partners to work with, and I'm open to trades! Please make sure you know what you want to offer!

I always try to respond if I'm interested or not!