Orikane

Orikane is the art of dollar bill folding, similar to Origami or as some say 'Moneygami'. When we were married we received many cash gifts. I think this may be more customary in Germany and also due to the fact I was moving. The money was not simply placed in an envelope - it was presented. We received a 'cactus', which was a cucumber with money sticking out in every direction, a 'shirt' that said they'd give us the shirt off their back, 'butterflies' with homemade jams, and many organaza bags filled with notes. They were all very unique and memorable. 

I was looking for creative ways to give money with an orchid and art work when I came across the Dollar Artist. 

I remember folding notes in school and making them into hearts or one that you could pull a tab to open. I'd wanted to do something sweet and romantic to fit the wedding theme, but then something like the elephant looks so precious. Last we heard they were considering a trip to India for their honeymoon, so I thought we could write something about using the money towards elephant food and I'd make an Orikane elephant. 

Not so simple...

These sites look wonderful, however I didn't have much patience with tiny folds - and the fact that Euros aren't the same size as US dollars, so I resorted to the old stand by - hearts. I think it turned out nicely. 

I'm already looking forward to seeing what a Bavarian wedding is all about and to welcome Steffi to the family.

Crochet

I feel like an old lady admitting that I crochet, but I do. I've been working on this blanket for what seems like ages. It is my first project, so it's a bit of a learning process. I'm still not entirely certain how I'm doing it... my mom said it looks more like knitting, but I use only one hook and know one stitch. The rest is a bit improvised.

I must say it gives me a new found respect for being able to buy a blanket at a store - or to see how thoughtful a handmade gift is. I think my blanket is taking a bit more time as well because the stitches are so tight - similar to a knit sweater. I was so excited when I found this 100 % cotton yarn, because it is soft and bright (wow... I sound even more elderly).

I'll be happy about the day that I'm able to make baby booties or sweaters, simply because I don't think I have the patience or much interest in making something for an adult.

Martha Stewart has these beautiful baby blankets and soft toys made from crocheting that I may attempt. I think they would look great matching this blanket that is taking a life time to finish. Now I just need to learn to be able to read the crochet language for patterns and learn a few more stitches... or else just improvise.