Crafty Resolutions for 2015

Do you aspire to try something new in 2015? Perhaps this is the year you'll finally tackle that sewing project, learn to weave, or master knitting or crocheting. Exploring the wonderful world of fiber arts is something we know a little bit about - after all, Allure was created by the fine folks at Bijou Basin Ranch, purveyors of premium luxury yak yarns.

We'd like to get you started on your craft journey with just a few recommendations for tutorials and resources to check out, no matter which craft you choose. Don't forget to treat yourself to a bottle of Allure to care for your finished project, too!

1. Knit: AllFreeKnitting.com has a wealth of learn-to-knit tutorials awaiting you! Learn to cast on, knit and purl with the best of them when you visit this free website. Another great resource to add to your list are the video tutorials found at KnittingHelp.com.
2. Crochet: Grab your crochet hooks and visit AllFreeCrochet.com to start hooking in 2015! This website offers links to free tutorials covering everything from the basics to intermediate and advanced skills. For those who prefer video tutorials, CrochetEverAfter.com to browse a list of technique and stitch tutorials. 
3. Sew: Starting with a simple project is a great way to get your feet wet, and there are plenty of
   
   step-by-step tutorials accompanying the projects at SewCanShe.com. There is also an excellent list of free sewing technique tutorials from around the web that is worth checking out! 
4. Weave: Starting small with a handheld loom is a wonderful way to give weaving a try; you can also try a more low-cost approach by making your own cardboard loom using a few supplies you probably have lying around the house - click here for a free photo tutorial on the Easy blog. If you already happen to have a loom, WeavingToday.com offers many free eBooks geared towards the beginning weaver. 
5. Handspinning: Drop spindles are a great way to get started without having to invest in a wheel, and you can even make your own using this free tutorial! To get started, check out this comprehensive tutorial on the Knit*Six blog (although we recommend using Allure to set the twist in your finished skein to avoid accidentally felting). 

Fine fibers deserve the very best care; you work hard on your handmade projects, so be sure to treat them right! Our gentle no-rinse, no residue formula is the perfect way to finish handmade projects and keep them looking their best for years to come. Be sure to visit our website for more specific washing instructions here on our FAQ. For more crafty inspiration, join us on Pinterest!

Shop Our December Sale!

There's no better time to stock up on Allure than during our December sale! The more you buy, the more you save; from stocking stuffers to laundry room essentials, we've got you covered!

Click here to shop our sale.

Allure was recently mentioned in the blogosphere, where the first 250 folks who were lucky enough to preorder Hunter Hammersen's new book of knitting patterns were treated to a goody bag which contained some lovely treats, including a sample of Allure! Click here to read more on the Violently Domestic blog.

Image courtesy of theViolently Domestic blog

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter for holiday gift inspiration and the latest Allure news! 

Meet the Allure Sample Set!

Just in time for the holidays, we're introducing the Allure Sample Set! Containing three 3.4oz bottles in each of our scent options, it's s great way to sample the full range of Allure products, plus it makes a lovely gift  to give & get!

Whether you give as a set or gift each bottle separately, Allure has you covered for just about any gift-giving situation: If you're planning any handmade holiday gifts this year, be sure to add a small bottle of Allure to the gift box to ensure the recipient cares for your creations properly (there's nothing like a subtle hint or two!). Allure would also make a fantastic stocking stuffer, Secret Santa gift, or a thoughtful extra to include with store-bought gifts such as cashmere sweaters, luxury wraps, or lingerie.

Bloggers and podcasters are giving Allure rave reviews! Click the links below to check out some of our most recent mentions:

• Knitting Daily Blog
• Dark Matter Knits Podcast
• Handmade By Stefanie Blog

Hand Wash Basics with Allure + Free Sample

Hand washing garments in the sink.

Delicate items such as cashmere sweaters, hand-made woolens, and lacy lingerie require special care which often involves washing by hand instead of by machine using a gentle detergent such as Allure. Many items marked dry clean only can also be cared for in this manner, which can save you money in the long run!

Please note: if you are washing an item for the first time, be sure to check for color-fastness using these simple instructions from our FAQ. Once you are certain that the colors in your garment won't bleed, it's safe to proceed!

Here's how to hand wash like a pro with Allure:

Using a drying rack for
sweaters washed by hand.

• Fill your sink or a basin with warm water. 
• Add 1-2 capfuls of Allure per gallon of water.
• Immerse article(s), squeezing gently if necessary to work water and soap all the way through (but be careful not to agitate if you are washing woolen items, which have a tendency to felt). 
• Soak for at least 10 minutes; it's ok to soak items longer if they are heavily soiled or in the event you forgot about them - it happens! 
• Remove article(s) from water and squeeze gently to remove excess water. Be careful not to twist or wring. 
• Lay article(s) flat on a dry, clean towel and roll it up to remove additional moisture. This will help your item to dry faster! 
• Lay flat on drying rack or clean, dry towel. Take care to place item away from direct heat and sunlight. 

By following the instructions above, your items will last longer and smell great, too!

If you've been wanting to give Allure a try, but can't decide between our 3 scent options, we're offering a free sample so that you can experience Allure risk-free! Click here to request your free sample; please note, 1 sample per request per customer. 

Meet Allure!

We're pleased to introduce you to our newest product to join our family of fine yarns and fibers at bijoubasinranch.com: Allure!

Allure is available in 16 oz. and 3.4 oz bottles and a 0.23 ounce single-use packet; it comes in three great fragrances: Woodland Mist, Prairie Breeze, and Fragrance Free. This all-natural no-rinse wash is backed by 30 years of experience; the premium no-residue formula was developed specifically for fine fiber care by our own resident chemist, Eileen Koop! 

Be sure to watch this blog for more updates about Allure; you sign up to have blog posts sent directly to your email inbox using the link on the top right, or you can add us to your preferred blog reader to be notified whenever we share a new post!