Year: 2024

...Continuing my Granny Square Cardigan Journey: If you missed the beginning, check out my first post here. I’ve been working on creating a crochet granny square cardigan, and it’s been quite the journey! From adjusting the granny square cardigan pattern to figuring out how to adjust crochet cardigan size, I’ve learned so much along the […]

...As the world of knitting grows, so do the options for formalizing one’s skills and gaining professional recognition. Two leading knitting certification programs stand out in this field: The Japan Handicraft Instructors Association (JHIA) in Japan and The Knitting Guild Association (TKGA) in the United States. Both programs have distinct approaches to developing knitting expertise, […]

...If you’re feeling overwhelmed by a constant stream of thoughts, tasks, or ideas, the brain dump technique could be the answer you need. I started exploring the brain dump technique after feeling overwhelmed by the growing list of tasks both at work and home. It turned out to be a simple yet powerful way to […]

...I first looked into the Japan Handicraft Instructors Association (JHIA) Knitting Certification after struggling to teach myself crochet through YouTube. When I started knitting—especially with garments in mind—I wanted a more structured way to build my skills. Many of the patterns I admired were from Japanese designers, so learning their techniques felt like the right […]

...On December 1st, I took the JLPT N1, marking a significant milestone in my Japanese language learning journey. It was both challenging and enlightening, and I’m excited to share my experiences with you. In this post, I’ll discuss what to expect from the JLPT exam based on my personal experience, along with practical tips to […]

...How do you organize your knitting supplies? Keeping small knitting and crochet tools organized can be a challenge. I used to struggle with this—my stitch markers and blunt needles always ended up scattered or buried in my bag. If you’re like me and searching for a storage solution that’s practical, portable, and affordable, I’ve found […]

...The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is just around the corner—scheduled for Sunday, December 1, 2024 (AATJ). I’m also taking the test, and with only a few weeks left, I’ve learned to stop spreading myself thin and zero in on what actually helps. This guide shares my personal strategies for making the most of the final […]

...I used to feel scattered juggling work and personal tasks—until I started using a To-Do list app consistently. Over time, I’ve built a system that helps me stay clear and focused. In this post, I’ll share how I actually use these apps to manage my day. Whether you’re balancing work commitments or handling personal errands, […]

...When I set out to find the perfect A7 ring binder for my 2025 planner, I quickly realized that none of the options quite met my needs. Most leather binders had too many unnecessary features—like pockets, bill holders, and snap closures—that added unwanted bulk. I wanted something sleek, simple, and customizable to keep my planner […]

...If you’re looking to sew your own notebook cover or create a custom planner cover, this project is for you. Recently, I picked up the Midori MD Diary 1 Day 1 Page 2025 (A6) and wanted to protect its minimalist design while adding a personal touch. I skipped the pre-made covers and took on the […]