I hope this inspires you,
The craft wires used for these wire crochet bracelets can be found on the Wires section of the shop under Supply !
Love
Yoola
p.s. the below post might interest you as well ..
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Landed here by mistake and want to get started wire crocheting in the ISK technique ? begin HERE!
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Now, I've got a fresh challenge in mind, still revolving around colors and designed to be accessible to both beginners and accomplished crafters. Based on our experience with the first challenge, I've decided to slow things down a bit. Weekly progress seems more manageable than daily, don't you think?
So, here's the challenge: select two or three random colors and dive into wire crochet, following the zebra pattern ! working alternately with 2 or more wires. You can opt for a small project like a band ring, a bracelet (whether wide or narrow), or even a tube necklace. There's just one rule - you must stick to the random color combination you've chosen; no room for cheating here!
The main goal? Well, it's all about having fun! Plus, this challenge provides a unique opportunity to explore color combinations you might never have considered otherwise. I personally gave it a try and ended up working with three shades I would never have intentionally chosen. I followed the sequence diligently - 1, 2, 3 - for seven repeats, resulting in 21 rows, which I then shaped into a band ring. Now, I'm eagerly anticipating what my "blind" color choices will be next!
So, go ahead and share your weekly color choices and your wire crochet creations. The best part? You don't need any special materials to get started other than wires of course !which I assume you have. Let's kick off the challenge right away, and we'll plan to showcase our weekly results every Thursday on the YoolaISK group on FaceBook.
Any questions or thoughts? Feel free to share!
With love,
Yoola
Here is her Instagram page where you can see more of her work !
If she or the sweater below strikes a chord of familiarity, it's likely because you've encountered her design in none other than Vogue. Quite impressive, wouldn't you agree?
Before I continue Inbal is also an entrepreneur and is one of the organizers of the coming FiberFestivalIsrael ! if you happen to be in Tel Aviv on October 5th check it out, here is a link to the occasion. If you scroll throught the partiipants you will see a familiar face, I will be telling my wire crochet Journey , in free translation its called Yoola and the loop - A love affair.
Inbal, a left-handed artisan, caught my attention. I often encourage left-handed individuals to begin their wire crochet journey with their dominant hand and progress from there. Occasionally, some of them explain that they're left-handed but have learned to crochet with their right hand due to early instruction or the abundance of right-handed tutorial videos. Some persist with their right hand until they gain confidence, only to later approach me with a quiet request: "Can you demonstrate how to do this with my left hand?" And the outcome is surprising! Crocheting with their left hand feels more natural and intuitive, as it's their dominant hand. Personally, I'm right-handed and seldom use my left hand for tasks requiring precision. However, in order to adeptly teach both handedness, I dedicated time to practicing with my non-dominant hand. I can now proficiently demonstrate with either hand, though admittedly, my left-handed work isn't as fluid as my right-handed crochet. What's truly fascinating about engaging your non-dominant hand is the sensation of your brain diligently dispatching instructions to your hands. I often jest that I'm giving my brain a workout when I switch hands.
Inbal quickly grasped the concepts and began probing about color patterns. I introduced her to the Zebra and checkered patterns, which triggered a memory of an experiment I conducted during my time in Sri Lanka a few years ago – a post that might ring a bell for those who have followed me closely. Inbal embarked on her own experimentation journey, and once the workshop concluded and I returned home, a persistent thought nudged me: it was time to delve into more color pattern experiments. Hence, the genesis of the recent weeks' exploration into polka dots. While I haven't reached a definitive conclusion, I compelled myself to finalize a few pieces – a bangle, a bracelet, and two necklaces.
If you're intrigued by the technique – which some liken to mosaic crochet, not so much in the process but certainly in the outcome – here's a link to a partial pattern. Please note that it doesn't encompass the entire ISK technique; rather, it unveils the secrets, tips, and charts for crafting color patterns like polka dots, triangles, and even designing your unique color patterns within the ISK technique.
Have questions ?
I'm always happy to hear from you !
Love,
Yoola
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Got here by chance and want to get started on the ISK technique?
check the where do I start page that I set up especially for that :)
]]>August is here!
The July challenge has come to an end, I was planning on gathering into here what has happened along the month, but it became too tedious... so I'm afraid you will have to scroll through the posts on the YoolaISK group to see it all.
What I will do is post in here the result and last post explaining ho I ended up with this spinner looking bangle
The END- August 1stSo, I finally took the work off the loom, flattened and stretched it, and guess what? It wasn't as long as I had expected. Well, it would've been too long if I wanted to add the 8 rows clasp as in the original YoolaCuff design, but you know me—I prefer wearing my bracelets without them. I like the loose feel and the way they blend with the light textile piece.
Since that was the case, I decided to wire crochet the ends together using a flat stitch, and then I tightened that area with some trusty flat nose pliers.
And here comes the exciting part—wait for it—I transformed it into a cool "spinner" like bangle!
Throughout the challenge, I had my worries about not considering the colors, fearing it would turn into a terrible-looking piece.
But guess what? I'm VERY happy with how it turned out, like, REALLY happy!
It got me thinking that maybe I need to refresh the color palettes in my head. I mean, just look at the result! Or perhaps it's ugly, and I'm just not seeing it?
Ha ha! Feel free to share your opinions, folks.
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Landed here by chance and looking for the how to crochet a Cuff DIY ?
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you should be, since all you need are scraps of wire, a hook and having one of the 2 beginners patterns, either the YoolaTube or the YoolaCuff, if have neither of them, by clicking on one of the images below it will take you there, these wire crochet beginners level patterns are available in several languages, you can choose it from the drop down menu.
So here is a reminder of how the challenge will go , there will be a post pinned to the top of the YoolaISK group on FB, if you are not a member, this is the time to join ! the challenge to add a few rows daily to whatever project you decided you will be making, the wire crochet tube necklace or the wide cuff bracelet. The color you will choose for that day should follow your mood, you are welcome to share with the group the reason you chose this color, or you can just post a photo with no explanations, it's up to you.
If you are making a bracelet I suggest you to progress 2-3 rows daily, if you are wire crocheting a short tube necklace, then 4-6 daily rows, if you are making a long tube necklace you may want to wire crochet 8-12 daily rows. This is a great opportunity to remind you there is a video on the YoolaISK group teaching how to change wires, search #changewires in the group to watch it.
Try to upload your daily addition, but if you skip a day no worries, just share your progress!
p.s. tag your work for this challenge with #ISKmoodProject
Missed on last week post and want to learn what inspired me to start this challenge ? read here ! have questions? I'm always happy to communicate with you! click here
Love,
Yoola
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Landed in this blog post by mistake ? this is the blog of YoolaDesign where everything is about wire crochet, if you are intrigued and want to get started wire crocheting in the ISK technique , go to the where do I start page and feel free to contact us via the contact form.
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Join the conversation on the YoolaISK group on Facebook ! if you are not yet a member you are welcome to join !
Love,
Yoola
However, amidst the ups and downs, I managed to achieve a breakthrough. I'm excited to present to you my latest creation: the paisley XXL loom divider. This innovative tool allows you to create flat paisley shapes measuring an impressive 15 cm by 9 cm. Whether you choose to use it as a stunning wall decoration or incorporate it into a statement necklace, the possibilities are endless.
One of the joys of working on a larger scale is the newfound versatility it brings. While creating this partition for the XXL loom, an intriguing idea struck me. What if, instead of stopping at a flat shape, we took it a step further and transformed it into a paisley-shaped vase or bowl? Picture it - a beautiful and unique centerpiece that adds a touch of elegance to any space. And if you make two in contrasting colors, they can become a mesmerizing yin and yang pair, symbolizing balance and harmony. I created this illustration to emphasize what I mean.
But let's not forget the primary focus of our exploration: wire crochet. Crocheting with wire opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to create intricate and delicate designs that are unlike anything you've seen before. And with the paisley XXL loom divider, you have the perfect tool to bring your wire crochet visions to life.
So, are you ready to dive into the magical world of wire crochet and wire sculpture jewelry making? If the answer is a resounding yes, then I have great news for you. The paisley XXL loom divider is now available for purchase, and you can find it by following the link or by clicking the image below.
For those who are interested in the XL loom paisley divider, Simply click the link provided, and you'll be one step closer to creating your own mesmerizing wire crochet designs.
In conclusion, this week has been a journey of trial and error, of pushing boundaries and embracing the challenges that come with scaling up. While not every idea came to fruition, the ones that did were well worth the effort. The paisley XXL loom divider is a testament to the magic that can be achieved through wire crochet and wire sculpture jewelry making. So, go ahead, unleash your creativity, and let the beauty of wire crochet transform your artistic visions into reality.
Love,
Yoola
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Landed here by chance and want to get started wire crocheting in the ISK technique ? go to the where so I start page, click here.
Feel free to contact me via the contact form, I'm happy to answer any of your questions. contacting me via the form ensures it doesn't go to the spam folder and actualy reaches me.
]]>So, here's the deal: I've been messing around with wire crochet flowers recently and I've got a hunch that you're going to dig what I've been up to. It's a simple concept, but the end result is pretty remarkable. You might just get the itch to whip up a bouquet of your own!
Now, here's the kicker: I didn't crochet anything new for this project. Nope, I decided to make use of pieces I already had on hand. They were all set and ready for a transformation. If you know your way around my patterns, you should recognize most of them, with one exception. Can you figure out which one?
This week, I was all set to continue working on our good old Hamsa shapes. But then, something unexpected happened: the artichokes drying by my window started to flourish in the most mind-blowing color, completely turning my plans upside down. The sight of them got me thinking about flowers, and well, here we are.
And let's be honest, it's not really a level playing field when it comes to flowers and Hamsas. Yes, Hamsas are pretty cool all year round, but flowers in full bloom? They're hard to beat.
A few years ago, one of our group members started fiddling with wire crocheting flowers. Rings a bell? Well, how about we bring that back?
Here's my proposition: let's make wire crochet flowers and stick them on, well, a stick. Picture a bouquet of these ever-lasting, wire-crafted blooms decorating your home. Sounds pretty awesome, right?
So, what do you reckon? Are you up for a challenge? Let's get those hands busy and see what kind of floral magic we can create.
Keep it creative, folks!
I will post this on the YoolaISK group so you can let me know what you think and join the fun.
p.s. here are the patterns used to make most of these flowers
Love,
Yoola
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Landed here by mistake and want to get started wire crocheting in the ISK technique ? I justed you begin at the where do I start page inthe main menu !
]]>Wire Crochet: The Perfect Medium for Handmade Hamsas? Wire crochet has become my medium of choice, allowing me to create intricate and unique pieces of jewelry and decorative items. Its flexibility and ability to blend with wire seamlessly make it the ideal technique for crafting Hamsas. The delicate interplay between the wire and the stitches results in a mesmerizing aesthetic that beautifully captures the essence of this ancient symbol. The fusion of wire crochet and the Hamsa symbol creates a truly exquisite piece of art that resonates deeply with both the artist and the wearer.
The Significance of Stitches: Abstract or Realistic? As I sit here, surrounded by my wire and hooks, I find myself contemplating the significance of stitch size when creating wire crocheted Hamsas. Does a small Hamsa, with its abstract appearance, lose its prominent features? Or does the abstract nature of wire crochet enhance the artistic allure of these symbolic pieces? The answer lies in interpretation and personal preference. While a realistic portrayal may capture the intricate details of the Hamsa symbol, an abstract representation can evoke a sense of mystery and intrigue. It is in this delicate balance between representation and abstraction that wire crocheted Hamsas find their artistic voice.
The Versatility of Hamsa: Wearable or Wall Art? Ah, the age-old question: should the Hamsa symbol be proudly worn as jewelry or admired as captivating wall art? The origins of the Hamsa can be traced back to ancient Mesopotamia, and it has since found its place in Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. Traditionally believed to bring protection, happiness, and good fortune to its wearer, the Hamsa carries deep cultural and historical significance. However, wire crocheted Hamsas can also serve as stunning wall art, infusing any space with spirituality and cultural richness. The decision of whether to wear a Hamsa or display it as wall art ultimately lies in individual preference, style, and the intended purpose of the piece.
The ISK Technique: Merging Innovation and Tradition In my journey as a wire crochet artist, I have embraced the innovative ISK technique, which has revolutionized the wire crochet process. Utilizing dedicated new looms that are 3D printed in my studio, this technique allows for greater precision and creativity. By combining traditional wire crochet skills with modern technology, I am able to create intricate and captivating wire crocheted Hamsas that showcase the beauty of this ancient craft in a contemporary light.
Join the Conversation: Share Your Thoughts Now, I would love to hear your perspective on wire crocheted Hamsas and your preference for creating small home decors or jewelry. Do you believe that the abstract nature of wire crochet enhances the artistic appeal of Hamsas? Are you more inclined to wear a Hamsa or display it as wall art? Let's continue this conversation and connect with fellow wire crochet enthusiasts in the YoolaISK group on Facebook.
In conclusion, wire crochet offers a captivating medium for creating handmade Hamsas, allowing for a unique blend of tradition and innovation. The choice between realism and abstraction, as well as wearable jewelry or wall art, is a personal one that embraces artistic expression and individual interpretation. The Hamsa symbol, with its rich history and cultural significance, continues to inspire me as I explore the depths of wire crochet.
To be continued ...
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Landed here by chance and want to get started wire crocheting in the ISK technique ? go here !
Still have questions ? feel free to get in touch via here
]]>The divider strips are designed to enable you to create additional shapes using your round XL loom, a semicircle, a quadrant, a yin yang and a paisley and combinations of them all.
The 3 divider strips in the set are:
The Semicircle - With the semicircle you can wire crochet a circle that is made of two colors, semicircle in one color and the second semicircle in another. You can also wire crochet a stand alone semicircle . In addition to these 2 flat options you can also sculpture the piece into a 3 dimensional element by folding it along the reduction stitches, but this is not the end, joining together more than one element opens up a whole new world of shapes for you to discover.
The Quadrant - With the quadrant partition you can wire crochet a quadrant shape, a semicircle with each half in a different color, a full circle with each half in a different color or a mix of 2 quadrants and a semicircle, or... three quadrants ! full circle when each quadrant is made in a different color. You can also wire crochet a stand alone single quadrant . moving to the 3 dimensional opportunities the quadrant divider strip offers, when folded along the reductions stitches you get a sweet pyramid !
The Curve - With the curvy Yin Yang partition you can wire crochet a full circle separated into 2 shades in the shape of yin yang, but that's not all, if you only crochet one side you get an adorable flat Paisley, that when folded along the reduction stitches turns into an impressing 3 dimensional sculptural element.
At this point in our mutual journey with the ISK technique, it goes without saying that there are many more opportunities than those suggested here. You can always decorate your work with small beads and pearls, join identical or different pieces together, and play with colors within each segment. In other words, you can let your imagination run wild. These are just a few more crayons in your color box that can take your wire crochet design to the next level.
Some of you may be wondering about divider strips for other loom sizes. My answer is that it's an option. I feel that it might not work as well for smaller looms, but for larger ones like the XXL loom, it's definitely a viable option. If there's a demand, I'll work on making them available. Each loom or accessory that I create undergoes numerous trials and errors before it's ready for you. I just thought I should mention this.
I've been working on the partitions idea for a while, putting it aside and then coming back to it. Now, I feel that the time is right. I hope you feel the same and will put this helpful set of tools to work.
Shop the divider strips set here !
Love,
Yoola
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One of the best ways to make your hoop earrings unique is by incorporating wire crochet elements. The ISK wire crochet technique involves using a crochet hook and wire to create a delicate and intricate pattern that is perfect for jewelry. Here are five DIY wire crochet hoop earrings that you can make this spring:
1. Twisted Hoop Earrings: This design involves crocheting a swirled strap, creating a twisted effect that adds dimension to your earrings. You can also add beads or crystals to the pattern to make them even more unique. To get the pattern click here
2.Fringe Hoop Earrings: For a bohemian and playful look, try making fringe hoop earrings. Crochet flat straps and add them as tassels or fringes to the bottom for a fun and stylish touch.
3.Floral Hoop Earrings: If you're looking for something feminine and romantic, try crocheting a large round YoolaFlower and string it on the wire hoop. These earrings are perfect for springtime or weddings.
4.Geometric Hoop Earrings: For a modern and edgy look, try crocheting narrow straps and add them in a geometric shape like a cross to the hoop. You can use different wire colors or add beads to make them even more eye-catching.
5.Beaded Hoop Earrings: These hoop earrings are made by creating a wire hoop and adding beads to the pattern. You can use different colored beads to match your outfit or create a unique design. Any of the designs above could get transformed by adding beads either on the edges or scattered into the work.
There are also older hoop earrings design I made along the years that I will add in here in case any of you have missed them.
Making your own hoop earrings using wire crochet is a fun and easy DIY project that can result in unique and stylish jewelry. Whether you're looking to make a statement or create a thoughtful gift, these five designs are sure to inspire your creativity. So grab your crochet hook and wire, and start making your own wire crochet hoop earrings today!
When it comes to making hoop earrings, there are endless design possibilities that you can explore. With wire crochet, you can add a touch of elegance and uniqueness to your earrings that are sure to catch everyone's attention. These DIY wire crochet hoop earrings also make for great gifts for your friends and family, especially those who love jewelry.
So don't hesitate to get started on this fun and rewarding DIY project. You can find many wire crochet tutorials and patterns online, and with a little bit of practice, you'll soon be able to create your own beautiful and unique hoop earrings that perfectly match your style. With spring just around the corner, it's the perfect time to add some new and stylish pieces to your jewelry collection or surprise someone special with a thoughtful and handmade gift.
Here are a few sources you may want to get assisted by.
There are more on the wire crochet Patterns section of the shop
Enjoy !
Yoola
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Landed here by mistake and not sure how to get started , go to the "where do I start " page by clicking here !
feel free to drop me a note if you have any other inquiries.
]]>While the fight for equality is always relevant, this year it's more relevant than ever. Despite making great progress in recent years, we are seeing a huge setback in women's representation in Israel. This setback only motivates us to fight harder for our rights and to support each other as a community.
As a jewelry maker specializing in wire crochet, I have built a little feminine community around this simple yet powerful art form. And on this day, I am proud to celebrate the creativity, strength, and resilience of women through my art.
To mark this occasion, I am highlighting some of my past wire crochet creations made in red. Red is a powerful color that represents passion, love, and strength. And what better way to celebrate International Women's Day than by creating something red? Whether you are a jewelry maker or simply someone who enjoys crafting, I hope this inspires you to make something red today.
To all the women out there, let's continue to support each other, fight for our rights, and celebrate our creativity and strength. Happy International Women's Day!
Love,
Yoola
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Landed here by chance and want to get started wire crocheting in the ISK technique ? this page should help you get started , CLICK HERE :)
feel free to reach out if you need any further assistance.
]]>Valentine's Day is coming up and what better way to show your love than with a handmade and unique decoration? With our Extra Large Heart Shape Loom, you can create stunning wall art decorations that will leave a lasting impression. Imagine hanging one on your entrance door or in your bedroom for a romantic touch.
]]>The process of wire crocheting a large flat heart is simple yet satisfying and with a loom specifically designed in the shape of a heart, you'll be able to create intricate and detailed designs. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced wire crocheter, the loom provides an easy and efficient way to create beautiful wall art.
The loom is versatile and can be used for a variety of projects, from heart-shaped wreaths to garlands, and even jewelry if you're looking to make a statement. You can choose from a wide range of wire shades and combine them to create a personalized look that matches your home decor.
With my Extra Large Heart Shape Loom, you can create beautiful wall art decorations that are perfect for Valentine's Day or any day. Make a statement with your DIY decor and show off your skills to your friends and family.
The XL heart loom can be used both as a traditional loom, where the work is removed when it is finished, or as a frame that the work remains on.
Order your loom today and get started on your next wire crochet project!
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If you prefer smaller heart-shaped items, I also offer smaller heart-shaped looms in my shop , click here to get there !
]]>The polygon system consists of:
3 small sides ( 8 holes )
3 medium sides ( 14 holes )
3 large sides (26 holes )
&
3 poles
How to set up the Polygon system :
The sides go into the poles to create a closed triangle shape, the same poles are used for all 3 triangles sizes.
overall you can assemble 3 sizes of triangles.
How to use the Polygon looms system :
1. The simplest way of using the polygon system is one triangle at a time.
2. By opening up one side of the triangle will enable you to connect the new triangle you are making to an already previously made one or to another wire crochet shape like a flat tube.
3. You can also use just one of the sides if you already have 2 other sides to connect to.
4. If you leave the triangle center hollow you can open up the triangle loom, slide it into the opening and wire crochet a triangle shape link.
What you can make with the polygon system
This is the most fascinating topic yet the hardest one to explain without confusing you, because the options are endless.
1. The simplest is to wire crochet triangles, hang them on an ear wire or a chain, note that you can control the height and shape of your triangle, anywhere between a flat triangle and a pyramid. you can also decide how you want its center to look like, closed or with an opening.
2. 2 triangles connected back to back create an ethnic looking bead, I recommend making them in 2 colors for a nice contrast.
3. A star can be wire crocheted by crating 5 triangles and crocheting them towards the center. Following the same principal you can make polygons with more corners.
4. Flat polygon ethnic necklace can be made by starting with a central polygon and adding smaller ones as in the image below.
5. A minimalist yet bold necklace can be made by connecting to both sides of a triangle, (double sided or not) flat wire crochet chains.
6. Another type of bead that can be made is by wire crocheting a pyramid, turning it over and wire crocheting its other half, kind of like you make the pod beads, only on a triangular base.
7. this is all great and beautiful but the real magic hides when you start discovering more 3 dimensional polygon shapes, like these 2 bowles, the small one is made of 4 triangles, wire crocheted continuously, each one wire crocheted attached to the next, when the 4th one closes the shape.
I hope you are fascinated as me of this magical world of polygons,
the set is available for purchase on the shop, CLICK HERE to get there.
Step by step patterns will become available gradually, follow the newsletter ;)
Love,
Yoola
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you can see it in here;
are you still with me ? ...
I remind myself to relax, get in focus and take small bites of life,
back to where I began, memory lane and colors !
this walk reminded me that sometimes designs you already made
can get a whole different look simply by playing with color.
here are a few brilliant examples of bold choices that are magical in my view.
I will start a thread in which we can share interesting color combinations of either finished wire crochet pieces you have made or that you are planning to ...
you can simply take a photo of the spools one next to other to show how they are going to look next to one another, This is so fun !
Love,
Yoola
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A walk through memory lane for those of you that don't know or would like to get reminded about the wonderful designs hiding in this pattern
]]>As part of a big project I'm working on, yes... this secret project is still secret and still in the work, and in case you were getting worried I'm going somewhere else , I can share with you that its all about wire crochet, I'm not going anyway in the near future, or at least I don't have such plans.
So this project sent me digging in my photos' archive, a wonderful walk into nostalgy lane, I say wonderful because in my mind I know it is wonderful, but in my heart I could feel a few pinches, some are because I see works of dear students that are no longer with us, some are because I think to myself, so many years I have been doing the same thing, have I done enough ? sometimes I think that I used to be more creative, more bold, but then I remind myself I should appreciate the fact that I'm still excited about wire crochet and the ISK method and that the path I have made should not be taken for granted, just as easily could have stayed just another hobby, I still get this astonished / amused reaction of people running into me on one of my social media channels or visit the studio, "this is actualy what you do for a living ?unbelievable !"
This digging also sent me thinking weather I should take a pause from the chase after new things when so many treasures are already there, just buried and so many of you could benefit from it. New ideas are the easiest for me, you know it by now, finishing them up in a form of a pattern or a video, or even just a finished piece is the hard thing...
As part of this digging I ran into many photos of variations of the Shogun bracelet pattern, those of you following my work for years are probably familiar with it, new comers might have missed it, at the time I made it in a very certain style that is not everyone's cup of tea, I took it to the minimalist black and white version, while in different color combination, by adding charms or by simply assembling it differently, it's a whole new story.
So today I gathered in here all the photos I could find in my treasure folder , some of the work is done by me, some by my class participants.
The SHOGUN pattern explains how to wire crochet the basic shape on the 40 loops base , the L size ISK starter, but you can see in some of the photos it can also be made on the M ISK starter that has 24 loops, once you read the pattern and understand the method you can easily apply it on a smaller size, or a larger size like the 56 stitches base, maybe as a wall decoration ? thinking our load here...
Another thing is the overall shape, it can be made in a symmetric version but also in an a-symmetric one, design wise it can lead you to very different results.
I personally made 2 kind of wire crochet bracelets following these principals, one more sculptural, made of 4 elements folded and connected to one another and a flat cuff bracelet. I also made a sculptural bib necklace. I did not make any earrings but if you make it on the 24 stitches base it will result in an interested design. Another impressive result is when the parts are joined together into a statement pendant necklace with a mix of symmetric and a-symmetric elements, this was the most popular option among the class participants.
I hope this inspires you to go back to this pattern if you already have it and explore more options. If you don't have it yet, I warmly recommend it.
click the photo below or this link : https://www.yooladesign.com/collections/wire-crochet-intermediate-level-tutorials/products/shogun-bracelet-statement-wire-jewelry-pattern
Love,
Yoola
]]>Without going into the religious part of things, basically because I know very little about it, there is a tradition of building a temporary shed especially for the holiday, the shed roof gets covered with branches so you can see the stars, and the walls are covered with sheets, sort of a tent, as a child I loved building tents, like most kids I guess, at least the kids from when there were no smartphones.
What was even more fun than setting up the Succah was decorating it, there is a custom of decorating it with paper decorations, a paradise holiday for crafters, most decorations if not all were made of paper, complex paper cuts and long paper chains.
In the last couple of days I was playing with the round loom on the new version of the link making set, and suddenly realized the chains I was making are similar to those Succah decorations I used to make as a child . It's probably a coincident I made them this time of year or maybe not ? in any case it was nice to have these memories come back to me.
Love,
Yoola
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Landed here by chance and don't know where to get started ? check the where do I start page, and if you are still confused, drop me a note via the contact us button
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So I'm back from my yearly visit to Sinai, it feels like a good ritual, though it is really so close that I could consider doing it twice a year, it relaxes my soul so deeply, which is nothing you can have too much of.
We basically do nothing there, stare at the amazing sea as it changes by the hour, the tide coming and going exposing little islands when its low. The reflections of the red mountains when the sea is quite, and the changes in the mountain colors as the sun moves during the day. I just told a friend we were out there in that comfy shade called "ZOO-LA" from sunrise till sunset.
This is a Zoo-la !
Sunset hours when the sea is super quite
Sunrise on the beach
Low tide islands
I took with me a small plastic suitcase with some supplies, but frankly I did not do much, but as always people were amused with the questions, " so is this what you do for a living ? " ... ha ha ! yes , my hobby became my day job .
It's also fun how I can make little gifts for strangers I meet and go into chatting,
little things you can do on the beach
If I were traveling with a little stock of the hoop earrings that I normally have on me, I would have sold so many, I guess you too sometimes get stripped off the wire crochet jewelry you make and wear, I have heard this more than once.
The local Bedouins are strolling the beach offering simple bead chains and galabias, we were joking they might think I'm bringing in competition... ha ha .
BTW- I now realize how perfect it is to work with wires on the beach in opposed to cotton for example ;)
The kit I took with me included the chains links tools set , a wire cutter, a hook and wires, and something that is still a secret I'm not ready to share with the world, but it will be coming soon, I promise!
BTW- I love it when you write me how wire crocheting is integrated into your life , what it brings with it, the strangers that start talking to you etc. so don't think twice, e mail me or share it on the FB group.
Happy new Jewish year to everyone, or as we say "Shana Tova"!
love,
Yoola
]]>This trip was an intense dive into the Finish design, past and present, although it wasn't Helsinki design week, this will only be happening in September... it was all about design. I learned so much about Finish design and architecture that I feel I could write a whole course just about that, but since this is not what I do, it will not be happening. But what will be happening is that you will see the impact of all that I saw and experienced on my designs.
The first is a quick and fun collection I call the CIRCLE, it's a journey into discovering geometric designs that incorporate wire crochet and thin metal rings.
My love for modern design is not new, not to me and not to you if you have been following my work and my trips around the world, the Bauhaus movement in particular has been escorting me along my journey since my design school days.
The CIRCLE pattern is a beginners level class, it is easy to follow and easy to implement in many wire crochet designs. In the class I teach two different ways to integrate the metal rings and by that to create two different designs.
If you stick to 10 loops base it remains easy, if you are ok with working on thinner tubes as well, you can also work with a 6 loops base, the result is different, its more delicate, mainly because there is more space between the metal circle and the wire crochet.
The final projects in the CIRCLE pattern are rings, but you can easily implement the methods explained there into making earrings, bracelets and necklaces, I have already done quite a few designs and my sketchbook is filled with many more. I hope I will get to testing them before I move on to my next project, and there are quite a few progressing in parallel these days in case you were wondering...
Ready to dive into the CIRCLE pattern?
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Landed here by chance and don't know where to get started ?
check the "where do I start" page in HERE.
have questions ? feel free to get in touch via the contact us page and I will gladly assist you.
Love,
Yoola
]]>But logic aside this is exactly what is going on in my studio, which remind me to expect the unexpected. There reason for all that is that the lucky clients that already received their new set of chain making looms began exploring the possibilists it offers, a n d shared it on the group.
First to show us her work on the YoolaISK FB group was Rose Morris from Wales in the UK, she made her first 2 leaves using the small leaf shape in 2 shades of pink, we hope she will share with us the progress ;)
Second was Denise Mcllroy also from the UK, kudos to the royal mail delivering so quickly ;) Denise got dived in and explored all looms size, and did something that made me go stand in the corner...
I have been so busy trying to discover new tricks that you can only achieve with an open loom, that I did not do the obvious ! simply use the squares and leaves as regular frames and make full body shapes ! so thank you Denise for the reminder ;) BTW- also LOVE the combination of large and little squares !
This has only happened yesterday and was not on my to do list, which to be truthful I only treat as a suggestion, as I NEVER do what I plan to do. If I was my list I would have been deeply offended... anyways what I wanted to say was that I only made a necklace using the large leaves. Without giving it to much thought I made them is shades of green and from there I immediately found myself humming the Autumn Leaves song, so here you go ! Autumn leaves in mid-summer
Next in my vision is a checker pendant made of the squares, just not sure yet whether to try the large or small ones, to be continued !
If you haven't yet ordered the chain link tools set go ahead and do so, It will open new horizons in your wire crochet journey.
Have questions?
contact me, I'm happy to assist !
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Landed here by chance and not sure how to get started ?
hop over to the where do I start wire crocheting page where I hope you will find all your answers.
still have questions ? drop me a note !
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A true lunatic, I would not do such a crazy thing again... ha ha ! or maybe I would ? I really enjoyed it and still love it a lot.
Writing this post made me go looking for that bracelet in hope I did not recycle it in a hasty non nostalgic moment, and surprise surprise, I found it ! badly oxidized, which I like a lot, and together with it I also found an organic looking chain I made of sterling silver, which was a lot of work as well, but not as challenging as chain Chainmaille one.
Reading what I write makes me wonder how come I'm still that fascinated about wire crochet, as I keep going in circles in the same areas rediscovering things I already touched, sorry about this self doubt I'm experiencing, it will pass and I will keep inviting you to join the wire crochet journey !
Writing of which, I've received lately quite a few personal emails from clients sharing with me how wire crocheting in the ISK technique helps them go through difficult times, due to illness or due to emotional stress or depression, I love hearing from you , keep writing me its my creativity fuel.
So if we go back to where I started, I'm currently focused on exploring if chainmaille principals can be implemented when using the new chain links tools set, or maybe making wire crochet links as suggested in the previous post is magical enough.
time will tell !
In the meantime if you are as excited about it as me and haven't ordered the chain links tools set, go ahead and order a set in your favorite color.
Love,
Yoola
]]>But this new wire crochet accessory really excites me, I cant stop making LINKS, I made dozens of them in the last few days ! I guess this point alone says it all.
It's exciting because the jewelry you can make with them are simple yet have this unique touch that makes them stand out of the rest, links based designs are not new and I tried coming up with such designs more than once in the past, but the result was not that WOW as these. Other than its look they also don't take more than 5-10 minutes to make, depending on the size of course. Not that speed is a factor, I enjoy the process, wire crocheting calms my mind and brings me vividness at the same time, but I'm sure some of you will appreciate the quickness of making them.
Up till now I made a pair of dangle earrings using the small leaf frame, a bracelet using the large rectangles frame, a necklace using the large leaf frame and a pendant using the small leaves. I made them all in gold so I don't get destructed by color and stick to the topic of making links !
From what I wrote you can understand there are currently 2 types of link shapes, each in 2 size, I've experimented with quite a few variations and these 2 size seem to offer a nice range of possibilities.
the link making frames set includes the following:
- Small leaf frame
frame size :1.9 by 1.1" (50/30mm), finished link size : 1.2 by 0.8" (32/22mm)
- Large leaf frame
frame size :3.3 by 1.7" (85/45mm), finished link size : 2.1 by 1.3" (55/35mm)
- Small square frame
frame size :1.5 by 1.5" (40/40mm), finished link size : 1 by 1" (26/26mm)
- Large square frame
frame size :2 by 2" (52/52mm), finished link size : 1.5 by 1.5" (40/40mm)
Each design I made was based on one shape and size but you can combine them, and use more than one shape or size in one necklace for instance.
The LINKS accessories will come with partial patterns with my suggestions for each of them .
Ready ?! Go !
Love,
Yoola
if you have anything to say to me, any suggestion, idea, remark, email me ir contact me via the contact button in here .
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Landed here by chance and want to get started wire crocheting in the ISK technique ? GO HERE to the where do I start page, and feel free to contact me if you need any clarifications, this is my passion and I'm happy to guide you into my world of wire crochet
]]>First were the wire crochet pomegranates and pears, following them came the pendant lights series and lastly the YoolaMandalas.
One of the current wire crochet projects I'm working on is a more extended family of wall décor system that will enable a few new things, firstly it will include more than just circles, there will be a trendy Hexagon ! really existing, I already made 3 of these for myself and to explore possible patterns. Then there will also be an over size heart shape! the jewelry making heart shape looms were such a big success. Any other suggestions are welcome, I always like hearing from you, I can't promise producing it, but who knows.
And if this is not enough, the frames will be designed in a way you can hang them directly on the wall, simply on a nail, without taking the work off !
The YoolaFrames are mostly made in-house which enables me to offer them in a more economic price range, and in more colors, which I find super important.
Lets talk about colors now ! really hard to narrow down as the opportunity are so vast ! so to start with I will offer them in Avocado green (super trendy !), Metallic gray, Matt gray, Light turquoise, Matt black and beige. The brave ones that like painting and coloring can take the beige frame, sand it and color it as it contains a certain percentage of wood, too challenging for me, but I know a few of you will appreciate it.
Next topic are instructions, I will start with basic partial patterns so this can get going as quick and as economic as possible, and more patterns and variations will be added on the go.
Size- I checked a few frame size and eventually decided on a main size , not too small so it has an impact but not too large so it will not be too time consuming and too frustrating to finish a piece.
Here are a few inspirational photos to help you envision how it will look on your wall, in the bedroom, Livingroom, entry or office.
here are the large looms :
and the medium size looms :
talk to me...
Love,
Yoola
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The heart looms currently come in 3 size, but seeing your enthusiasm in wire crocheting hearts I will soon make available a heart frame in wall decor scale.
The jewelry making heart looms are available in 3 size:
The large heart is : 2.7 by 2.7" (70/70mm)
The medium heart is : 1.7 by 1.7" (45/45mm)
The small heart is: 1.1 by 1.1" (30/30mm)
The heart looms are accompanied with a PDF in the partial pattern format, based on the YoolaFlower, but if you know my method of decreasing from another pattern you also good to go. The partial patterns explain how to wire crochet simple hearts, there is also a suggestion for a book marker in a heart shape, an idea for a great little gift for book lovers. Based on the pattern you can surely come up with more ideas, one lady on the group (Rose Morris) made a puffy large heart using 2 hearts, a bit like the heart book mark, v e r y impressive !
I currently make the heart looms in my traditional orange, but also in red! which was accepted so warmly, almost all the heart looms sets orders were in red, does make sense... I'm glad I made this option available.
If you are a member of the YoolaISK clients group on facebook you must have seen the sweet wire crochet hearts some of the members created. this is a reminder that if you are a client you are welcome there ! but do answer the questions or I will not be ably to recognize and approve you in.
Got for some reason out of touch and missed the heart looms launch ?
you can order the set by clicking here !
here are the partial patterns that go with it :
want to share with me something ?
I'm always glad to get your emails and suggestions !
LOVE,
Yoola
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Landed here by chance and want get hooked on wire crochet in the ISK technique ?
start here ! still not sure what to get first or have a questions?
contact me and I will gladly assist you
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For years I have been talking with you about how important the spaces between the loops are , just as important as the stitches, sometimes more important. for example in one of the most basic beginners wire crochet design, the YoolaCuff pattern or the Cleopatra necklace pattern, actually in any design that involves folding and flattening, the spaces between the stitches create the edges, so if the spaces are nice and even, the edge will be pretty, if not and it is very dense it might result in stiff edges.
One of the first models of the heart looms was missing a hole in the top center, and I was wondering weather to add one or not, the red heart below is the one I made without the center hole, the first hint of what will become something more prominent in the STRINGS collection, the SLT!
I'm only just at the beginning of discovering its full potential, it can be implemented in as a delicate little detail like in the heart, or let it lead your wire crochet world into a whole different place, like the examples below.
I'm plan on publishing the STIRNGS collection pattern, it depends on the number of clients interested in learning it.
If you are interested here is the link to pre-order, if the patterns aren't published you will get a full refund.
String wire crochet collection from yoola on Vimeo.
have questions ?
contact me :)
Love,
Yoola
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landed here by chance and want to start learning how to wire crochet in the invisible spool knitting technique, start here !
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so for now I will only post photos of her fabulous wire crochet Art work made in the ISK technique. I will try to set up an interview with her so we can all learn a little more.
for now enjoy browsing through her work and get inspired ! it includes some really fabulous elements and color combinations.
Love
Yoola
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to brows through more blog posts click here
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landed here by chance and want to start learning wire crochet in the ISK technique ? the where do I start is the best place to begin.
if you have further questions, feel free to contact me, I'm happy to communicate with you.
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If you didnt know about this you are probably missing out on many other things,
join the weekly newsletter in here !
and make sure to approve my email, or it might go to the spam folder.
and now to some more details about this exciting new purse design,
the purse I made is 4 by 3.5 " (10 / 9 cm)
but you can follow the principles explained in the ebook to make it in other size and other proportions.
The purse looks sophisticated but is really easy to follow, it has a detailed step by step PDF with 65 close up photos, PLUS a 23 minutes long video filmed from the maker point of view which is in my view the best learning experience for visual learners.
This new wire crochet tutorial is currently available only in English.
The wire crochet purse pattern is available here !
If you have any questions feel free to contact me I will be happy to assist you.
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Landed here by chance and want to get started with ISK?
check the where do I start learning wire crochet page !
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Another thing about November being here is that the Holidays are behind the corner, not just THE holiday = Christmas but also its little brother Hanukkah.
Around Hanukkah every year my driedles come to life and get their several minutes of glory, this is a great excuse to explore new color combinations, its fun to look back and see which color combos I did each year.
2019+2020 seemed to be "lost" years on my dreidels timeline ... either I didnt make any or I didnt photograph them.
2018
2017
2016:
2015
2014
This year , inspired by the coming Yayoi Kusama art show in Tel Aviv museum of art I focused on bold colors, I did not plan for it to happen, it just did... If you read previous weeks blog post you already read how it developed.
so here they are the color families I did this year, 2021
as well as the pattern in a digital download format :
or as part as a DIY gift kit :
Love,
Yoola
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Since my jewelry and dreidels are sold in the museum shop, I decided to ask if they would be interested in the pumpkins at least for the time period Yayoi Kusama exhibition was in place, and was happy they responded with a YES !
so the next morning when I set to work on them, hoping I will be able to recover the pattern which I didn't write down, It suddenly hit me that I should make the pumpkins in the Yayoi Kusama amazing bold colors, Yellow, Red and Black.
Luckily I managed to recreate the pattern and the pumpkins turned out super sweet, this also means I wrote down the instructions, Yeyy ! which are available in the partial pattern format, The pattern is based on the Pomegranates pattern, so if you are a newbie take the combined option, or you will miss on a lot of info, if you manage to follow it at all.
Another fun thing that happened was that while I was at it I wire crocheted several matching dreidels in the same mood , and... several TWIST necklaces. and as usual they feel so OOAK that I'm finding it hard to say goodbye to them and pack them.
It's true I can always make more, but I know I won't, I'm especially fond of the little color details weaved into the work that cannot be recreated, Its completely OOAK .
the dreidels pattern is available too in case you missed it !
Love,
Yoola