Do It. Renegade Craft Fair.

Don't let Carmeggedon threaten all your fun this weekend! Instead, indulge in some cool crafts, courtesy of the Renegade Craft Fair this Saturday and Sunday. Taking place at the Los Angeles State Historic Park in downtown near Chinatown -- meaning you'll be far and away from the closed 405 and close to easy access to public transportation -- the event is one of the largest outdoor marketplaces for handmade goods, a spinoff from the Chicago original. Now in it's third year, the fair will feature more than 200 artists, interactive workshops and even a swap-o-rama. Look for a photo booth, the Amoeba booth, a bar and food trucks galore. And the whole event is free, so you're welcome to explore and enjoy freely.

No better way to escape the madness than with some great homemade goods!

Renegade Craft Fair takes place this weekend from 11am to 7pm each day at the L.A. State Historic Park in downtown.

-- Chau Tu

Do It. Artisanal LA and Unique LA.

Ah, it's gift-giving time. And for those who are already stressing out about what to get for your loved ones, but still want to avoid the mall and the general boring gifts, then this weekend is for you. All you'll have to do is head on over to downtown and you'll be able to hit up two of the best craft and artisanal fairs this city has to offer.First up is Artisanal LA, located at the Cooper Design Space and offering samples and delicious, delectable goodies from more than 30 local artisans. Think special treats like chocolates, fruits, pies, spices, meats, ice creams, breads, etc. Basically anything your inner foodie could desire.

Cooper Design Center is located at 851 Santee St. in downtown. Admission is $6 (cash at the door), which includes a free beverage, roasted chestnuts (really!), and donation-based gift wrap.

Then there's Unique LA at the California Market Center. They've got all your crafty gift dreams in order, from T-shirts and scarves and apparel to jewelry, home decor, posters, and pet things. And this ain't your Grandma's crafts (no offense); the selection, like from Artisanal LA, comes from great and accomplished vendors. There'll even be an Amoeba pop-up shop!

The California Market Center is located at 110 E. 9th St. in downtown. Admission is $10, which includes free beverages, DIY workshops and photo booth fun.

Best part about this all? They're right down the street from each other, and you can go to both at a discounted price if you keep your wristband for at least one (Get $1 off Artisanal with a Unique wristband/Get 2-for-1 admission at Unique with an Artisanal wristband). It'll definitely be good for shopping for unique and personable gifts, and you'll be helping out local artists too. Don't pass up this super easy way to get all your holiday shopping done!

Both events are taking place both Saturday and Sunday, from 11am-6pm.

-- Chau Tu

Make It. Ripple Afghan.

Following through on yesterday’s promise, here’s how to make a “Ripple Afghan.” I found this in a pattern book from the late 70s called “Keeping You In Stitches”—a cute, kitschy find that outlines all manner of berets and ponchos. However, I really do like this blanket. It’s basic enough for a crochet novice, but the result doesn’t necessarily look simple.

What you’ll need:
1) J size crochet hook
2) About 36 ounces of different colored yarn*

Directions:
If you’re completely new to crochet, I would suggest checking out one of the many video tutorials out there on the internet to help you get a better understanding of what each of these steps looks like.

Do It. Get Crafty.

One of the things I'm most grateful for this time of year are the crocheting lessons my nana gave me growing up. It comes in handy around the holidays when any extra expense seriously strains my already-tight budget. Just a little yarn and planning and I'm checking off everyone on my list with practical and handmade gifts (check back tomorrow for an afghan pattern that I'm currently working with).

If you don't have your own nana to teach you the basics, try one of these reasonably priced sewing and crafting classes offered in Silver Lake. You'll learn an indispensable skill and reap the sweet, sweet reward of self-sufficiency.

Sew LA may be little tricky to find, but tucked away on the 2nd floor of 1637 1/2 Silver Lake Blvd. is a treasure trove of designer fabrics and sewing tools. Best part? They have classes that'll show you how to use them. Their basic Machine Intro class is offered almost every week this month for $45. Classes for creating pencil skirts and dresses are also offered and you'll leave these multiple-session lessons with a finished piece.
Already have the technique, but need the machinery? You can use one of Sew LA's on-site sewing machines for $10 an hour.

Home Ec, located at 3815 Sunset Blvd., is the newest craft store on the scene and owned by a former ReForm School teacher. This month they're offering everything from basic sewing to needlefelting. Classes run between $40-$100. Also be sure to check-out their beautiful blog for more crafty ideas.


Make this cute guy at Home Ec on December 11th!

--Heather Robertson

Photo credit: Home Ec