Meet More Funky Knitters

Last weekend at MAAD my products took a "background" position since I was running Funky Knit Workshop. Nevertheless, my Magic Mushroom was selling like hotcakes! I made 12pcs & now I'm only left with 2! Time to make more! yippee..! Knotty Fans, thank you for loving my Magic Mushrooms! ;)
Funky Knit @MAAD over the weekend was a hit! There were so many new Funky Knitters, I hardly even got time for lunch! Looking at all the beautiful mobile phone pouches made by these 1st-time knitters, all the hard work was really worthwhile. Moreover, we all had fun!

Here's what some of the Funky Knitters have to say about their virgin knitting experience...
"I think the funky knitter is quite a useful introduction for those who had never tried knitting before. It teaches the fundamental needed to pick up this form of crafting but without being too technical. Its also rather affordable at $10 and we get to bring home a self-knitting handphone pouch, together with the knowledge to make more pouches. Overall, an interesting workshop and worth recommendation." - Ho Man, 20th July 2008

"Dear Betsy... i luv my new hp pouch. was apprehensive & afraid that knitting was difficult to pick up but your introductory lesson & patient coaching with tips along the way made the 2 hour session much fun ! i can't wait to knit myself a scarf for my trip to japan end sept. and if i ever get good enough, knit some more for my friends as xmas gifts ! i will check out your website soon & embark on my next project. i am glad i bought the pom pom set coz now i can make myself a pom pom bag for lunch :)" - Corine, 10th July 2008

"Dear Betsy, I enjoyed my very 1st knitting class with your heartfelt teaching to complete this pc of project. Thank you for your patience and guidiance to the end..... Believe I will set myself to the next knitting class journey soon." - Kate, 10th July 2008

"Dear Betsy, You were a great teacher! I had alot of fun, and I love the pouch! Would love to learn more from you if i've the chance." - Jilline, 8th July 2008

"Hi Betsy, Firstly, thank you so much for passing some knowledge of doing a therapeutic hobby to me. And guess what, i'm definitely addicted to knitting!! haha.. im looking forward to do more knitting projects especially bags and sweater. Your session was really helpful. You gave me full attention and help till i get the right way of knitting. And most importantly, you let me understand every details of the knitting process rather than just jumping in to knit and complete the project. That is the most important factor. And i thank you for that. It will let me understand more about the knitting process. In short, you did a very good job teaching me. And of course i will see you again. Thank you again. meanwhile take care." - Nur, 8th July 2008

"Dear Betsy, thank you for... your time and patience on Sat. I had tremendous fun working with you and look forward to picking up knitting proper some time soon. I'll definitely arrange it with you once I work out the details with sis. Have a great day!" - Jackie, 9th July 2008

"Hi Betsy. It was a very interesting experience, my first time at knitting.  You were very patient with beginners like us and I was really glad that at the end of the course, I was able to complete the handphone pouch and be able to bring something home.  Definitely considering to sign up and embark on other projects. Thanks!" - Zhenzhu, 9th July 2008

Today, yet another new Funky Knitter joins the club. Ohan, my super adorable Art Student from last year, decided to pick up knitting before she leaves America for studies. Her crazy, chirpy personality made Amy & I laughed sooo... much! I'm sure we'll have more whacky times together, since she's got a scarf to complete! ;D

Friendship

Despite the help, support & TLC given by my doting family, starting & running Knotty Bicsie can be quite demanding & lonely at times. Whenever we are at bazaars & fairs, we always need fellow vendors' help & support too. I must say I'm very lucky to have met many amazing like-minders through Knotty Bicsie. Here are 2 such beautiful people, Ayako (Something Magickal) & Cindy (Purple Lush).
Ayako's abstract painting has this somewhat sweet & cute, yet mystical lure to them, just like the artist herself. My favourite is her intuitive drawing, which has become an annual ritual for me to help me put things into perspective. Thanx, Ayako!
Cindy's handcrafted silver is dainty & beautiful, just like the designer herself. She's made a special letter "B" pendant with lemon quartz especially for me. Isn't it pretty? Thanx, Cindy!
All artists, designers & crafters, let's all hang in there for a more vibrant & colourful art scene in Singapore! :)

KBCC #04 - PomPom Party

Time really flies... We just had our 4th KBCC @Hougang Central Hub. Found out I'm not the only one who find this part of our sunny island totally alien :P

Disappointed that we only had 1/2 strength since 2 members were not feeling well & others were caught up at work. :( Nevertheless, the rest of us still had loads of fun! 

First of all, we had a "secret mission" for KBCC members to be journalists of the day & we'll be sharing about the Singapore Arts Street @Hougang Central Hub during our KBCC #05 - Swop in July. here's a peek at some exciting treasures our KBCC roving photographers had found!
PomPom Party was so fun! Everyone lets his/her own imagination run wild & created all sorts of things with the pompoms! Check out Richard's rambutans, Peng Cheng's hair-tie, EeWei's porcupine, Shireen's mini bic, Laura's bag charm, Rita's baby blue poms... Haha... it was such a laugh seeing this fluffy creations bouncing off our tiny table! :D

Meet Funky Knitter - Yumin

"Knitting class couldn't be easier with a fun-loving teacher like Betsy!! (: The nature of such craft really trains one's patience, concentration (nvr miss a stitch!) and eyesight. But the relaxing atmosphere of the studio and the small chit-chats we gals have with Betsy just makes it all the more enjoyable. TO BETSY: THANKS FOR BEING SUCH A WONDERFUL, PATIENT, FUNNY, SWEET-NATURED TEACHER!!! I'm already addicted to making scarves. Ha I even used it to calm myself down before my driving test, for real! (: one day when I'm back from the states, I'll learn crocheting from you! KEEP IN TOUCH, K?! LOVE YOU LOADS!! (:"
- Yumin, 26th June 2008

Singapore Arts Street @Hougang Central Hub

It was another hot & busy weekend for Knotty Bicsie on 21st & 22nd June. Our workshop table was packed with family, kids, & all those young at hearts! It was amazing watching those eyes literally lit up when they see how these fluffy pompoms magically appear before their eyes!
Kids @Kids Performing are fabulous! They put up a real funky & energetic performance! Way to go, kids! & of course, they drop by after their show to make their own little pompom friends too :)
There were many activities perfect for a family outing. Check out the VERY young vendors just beside us. Even my little cousin, GuanRu, couldn't resist joining in the fun with finger printing & painting. :)
There was also a on-the-spot painting competition. I was shy to participate, but I did my little piece with my little neighbours :) Not bad ya? ;D
Dad follows my blog & we realized we NEVER have a picture of him with or at Knotty Bicsie at all! Finally! Here's the 1st with Edward! Say cheese, Daddy!
Liling made my day by delivering my customized Knotty Bicsie shoes! I was sooo... thrilled when I got my new shoes! They were PERFECT! Thanx a million, Liling! ;D

We will be at Hougang Central Hub again this weekend (28th & 29th June, Sat & Sun) from 11am-6pm. Do come by & say hi! KBCC (Knotty Bicsie Crafting Club) will be meeting there too on Sat 2-5pm. Cya! ;)

Customized Booties for WanRu

Thanx for loving our booties, WanRu!

Some New Funky Knitters

Been procrastinating this for too long... here's a glimpse at a few Funky Knitters @Knotty Bicsie Crafting Studio. Who says knitting is for old grannies in rocking chairs??? Check out these young & trendy fashion wear our Funky Knitters has come up with!
Robert, my very 1st male student. I'm really proud of him! Guess what? He completed this beautiful scarf in just 2weeks!
Then Robert introduced his friend, Sanny, who later brought 2 other friends, Fiona & Evantia, along. They fall in love with knitting & will be back for more after they their exam in August!
Yumin & YingChern visited my stall @MAAD, fell madly in love with my creations & signed up for classes with me immediately! Then Lisha joined in as well. Determined to beat Robert in completing their scarf within 2weeks, Lisha did it in 3weeks, while Yumin did it in less than 4! YingChern, we are waiting for you... :D
(ps: Yumin & YingChern, sorry about this strange blue hue to your photos. Must be my blue window :P)

These enthusaistic funky knitters really make my day. They make knitting & crafting even more fun. 

Funky Knitters, thank you for adding so much passion & laughters into Knotty Bicsie Crafting Studio!

Young's Surprise Birthday Party


Happy Birthday, Young!
Hope "Serenity" adds soothing colours to your lovely home.
Laz, LOVE the HUGE Elephant Ears you got for your wife! It was so.... HUGE! :D

A Hot & Humid Weekend @Clarke Quay with Singapore Arts Street

It was definitely a hot, Hot, HOT weekend! We were at Clarke Quay Central from 11am-8pm on Sat & 11am-6pm on Sun. It was tough, but fun. Lotsa chatting, lotsa laughters, & definitely lotsa PERSPIRATION! :P
Check out this Magic Mushroom Ayako has ordered from me. Truly Something Magickal!
2 young talents sat beside me last weekend. Love the shoes! Asked Ling to customize a special pair of Knotty Bicsie Shoes for me. Can't wait to see my new "work shoes"!
Been awhile since I see the RingMaster, Ian's work in action at bazaar. These are his early works, which he's done during his school days. Aren't they cool?
Lynn, who loves crafting, tried her hands with polymer clay. Very intricate wo
rkmanship with Mathilda. Pretty!

On Sunday after we "sweat-it-out" @Clarke quay, rushed to a very good friend's surprise birthday, which her hubby had arranged. Gave a special FreeForm piece as birthdya present. Will post the picture up after she email to me :)

Happy Birthday, Young!

Proud Sponsor for Booties for My Footie Contest!

Knotty Bicsie is the proud sponsor for "Booties for My Footie Contest" organized by Junior&U, June issue. Pick up a copy of Junior&U today & who knows? You might be one of the 10 lucky winners of this very cheerful & colourful contest!

KBCC #03 - Food Art

KBCC went to Botanical Garden yesterday. Yes, it was a wet wet WET day... :( However, I must say KBCC is very blessed with a bunch of extremely enthusiastic supportors! With our passion in craft, we went ahead with whatever we could. We refused to let the sulky rain dampen our spirits. In fact, we had quite an adventure salvaging our yummy craftwork in the rain!
What a scene we made when we readily flash out our colourful brollies to stubbornly complete our Food Art! It was so hilarious a few of us just decided to whip out our cameras to capture this candid moment! haha... o boy, I bet this is one picnic all of us will remember for a long time!
Wow! Look at KBCC Crafters' beautiful work of art! & it's yummy too! ;)
ppp
Special Note to All KBCC Crafters who braved the rain with me yesterday...
Really appreciate u all for being such great sports! You were all so encouraging & this really motivates me to wanna keep doing a better job each month! Honestly, when I 1st started KBCC, I had no idea at all how far it'll go... But now, after 3 months of exciting crafting adventure, I must say I'm truly moved & motivated by the passion & enthusiasm shown by KBCC Crafters! KBCC, THANK YOU! Let's make crafting a modern way of life for everyone!

Some Special Orders & New Packaging

There have been a few customized orders lately, really adorable! :)
Look! These 2 are specially customized for Tpah. Really glad she loves them! I'm sure they'll look fantastic on her Little Princess :)
Smurf is flying off to UK. Just in time to keep those little feet warm :)
Improving from some Knotty Fans' wonderful feedback, check out our new packaging for Registered Mail. Edward likes it, I love it, I sure hope Knotty Fans are pleased to receive it too! :)

Originally Illustrated Postcard from Tokyo

Remember Rokuhisa-san I met outside Shimokitazawa Station during my Tokyo trip? Well, he sent me a little postcard he has illustrated specially for me! How sweet!
Rokuhisa-san, Arigato Gosaimasu! Kawaii...!!!

A Busy Long & Crafty Vesak Day Weekend

It was a long weekend due to the Monday holiday. Knotty Bicsie was kept very busy by all the events that were in place due to this holiday...
1st of all, Sweet Citrus went to UK! be sure to keep the baby princess warm! :)
Bazaar @Clarke Quay is back! This time by a new event company. Big Grin Organics (Chewy) tried Clarke Quay for the 1st time. We all had fun :)
Knotty Bicsie's good friend, Pauseability, celebrates his 1st Birthday on 17th May! We had a yummy Popiah Party!
Since it was holiday on Monday, Jullie, Michelle & Ee Wei came over to my house for a crafting party! Jullie just came back from a fruitful Bangkok trip & brought back many goodies. We all learnt tatting from Jullie. Check out my 1st attempt at tatting! Not bad, ya? :P
Finally a group of gals, waiting to start University in a few months' time start their 1st knitting lesson yesterday! There were lotsa laughter.

Into the World of Machines

I had a very interesting experience on Tuesday when I visited the JIAM 2008 Exhibition @Expo. It is an international exhibition organized by a Japanese organization, showcasing textile & fabrics related machineries. It is held in Singapore for the 1st time. I'm lucky my granduncle's company participated in this mega exhibition, so I was invited to the show :) This was a whole new experience for me! I saw many huge machineries, which I don't even know what they are used for until the vendors gave a demo!
It was nice to come across a traditional manual way of making buttons :) They were giving away FREE buttons. Yay... who doesn't like free gifts? hehe... :P
Those Knotty Fans out there who LOVE my buttons, well, check out my sponsor & supplier - Sintek-Link! Yup, my granduncle's company. They now also distribute these very popular studs from Korea. The machine he's showcasing is the heat-press machine by his business partner - Hashima. Check out the company logo above Mickey Mouse. It's made by my VERY YOUNG UNCLE (only about 18yrs old!), Yixiong. I promised him I'll "feature his work"! :P
I chanced upon this exhibitor, Masayuki-san, showcasing sewing machines, who live in Yokohama. Knowing I just visited Yokohama, Osambashi, a few weeks ago, we started chatting about sewing & craft. This lady, Masayo-san, impressed me with her sewing-machine skill.
See how factory steam-iron a shirt in seconds! I felt like a kid in Science Centre! I was trying so hard to hide my excitement, in case I'm so obviously a "mountain turtle" there!
I vividly remember my jaw literally dropped when I saw this incredible machine. Not only can it do embroidery in minutes, it can even stitch strings of sequins & lace onto the design!!! O boy, how clever! & you know what? Since it's machine-made, the stitches are all "perfectly uniform"! iyo.... I'm still very overwhelmed! & of course these machines don't come cheap. I overhead a vendor quoting a potential buyer S$2million for the above embroidery machine! *I think my jaw dropped again*
2 sewing machine companies have very good & effective marketing strategies. They organize fashion design competitions & sponsor their machines to leading fashion academy in Japan. The effect, beautiful trendy fashion showing off the capabilities of their sewing machines, & of course, making these young aspiring fashion designers their loyal fans.
It was a strange feeling watching what these steel giants are capable of doing. I almost realize then why many people cannot understand handicraft & hence unappreciative of crafters' effort! Yes, it's scary, but this is real. Actually I'm most awed & amazed by the "handicraft" of these mega giants. The heroes behind these unbelievable inventions are truly incredible! They are definitely very creative individuals too!

Billy Goes Australia

Yay...! Billy is making his way to Western Australia today! Billy is all set to dance with Baby Eric!