s k e t c h e d s o u l

Recipe Book With Love

Tuesday, July 31, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

My dear sister Brooke, just informed me about a wonderful project! Insha'Allah our contributions will be of enormous help, as all the profits go to the Muslim Food Bank.

Linda "Widad" Delgado, author of Halal Food, Fun and Laughter is accepting original recipes and foodie stories for another book.

How can we help??

Send in recipes: should be original, never been published before. List ingredients and cooking method. If any unusual ingredient is used (something native to their country) explain below the recipe in a footnote and suggest something similar that could be used.

Send in a funny food story: a short funny story that is about eating, and/or preparing food. Maximum of 500 words. The only changes made to the story are spelling and/or punctuation.

Send in funny food poetry: light hearted poetry about food. A maximum of 32 lines. Any style acceptable.

The contributor should include their name, city/state and/or country. If they have a website and/or blog they can include this. This information will be included in the book crediting their contribution.

August 15th is the deadline for submissions. Sister Brooke will insha'Allah respond to each contributor and advise if his/her work have been chosen for inclusion.

All contributions should be emailed to: woodad@mindspring.com

May Allah reward all those involved in trying to make a difference, and shower His mercy upon them. Ameen.

Labels: help, recipes

posted by Sketched Soul at 5:10 PM | Permalink 2 comments

Accessorize My Hobby Swap

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

With every interest, hobby, etc., there is always the extra little trimmings we could do with, or would love to have but don't always indulge in. You know, the knitter who would love a knitting bag, the gardener who could do with an apron, the shopper who could put a new purse to use, an avid reader who would greatly appreciate more bookmarks, and tea-drinker who ... you get the idea!

Details of swap: Send your swap partner a collection of (minimum of 3) items that reflect ONE of the hobbies/interests they have posted on their blog (Blog questions below).
- One of the items must be an accessory
- One item must be handmade. (Masha'Allah we have so many creative sisters, this shouldn't be a problem.)

note: the accessory can be the item that is handmade

Swap Objective: meet another sister, send someone something special for Eid, be creative, explore other hobbies/interests, be part of those giving during Ramadaan - to please Allah!

Participants allowed: International (open to Females only!)

Ages allowed: All ages. (note: if you are not mature enough to see this swap through, please don't sign up)

Cost Limit: Non. There should be no 'expectations'. The idea is to have fun with it, and be a little creative.

Rules: You will have to inform only me and your swap partner via email when you have sent out your package and when you have received your package.

Email me a picture of your package before you send it out, so I can put it up in an album.

Those who have not yet sent out their packages from previous swaps, will not be allowed to join this swap.

Sign up due date: Monday, August 13th, 2007
Partners will be Emailed to you on: Wednesday, August 15th, 2007
Package HAS TO BE MAILED OUT before: Wednesday, September 19th, 2007

Questions to post on your blog (or to email me if you don't have a blog):
Four of my favourite hobbies/interests:
The best part of my hobby is:
My favourite colour is:
A new hobby/interest I've just taken up:
The hobby/interest I hope my swap partner will choose:
A hobby I've tried but hate:
Creativity to me, means:
What I think of my purse not matching my shoes:

If you would like to participate, I will need to know the following information. (amtullah79@yahoo.ca) note: .ca NOT .com
Please email me the answers even if you have participated in a previous swap.

QUESTIONNAIRE TO ANSWER
Name of swap: Accessorize My Hobby Swap
Blog name/url: (if applies)
Email address:
Your real name:
Mailing address:
City, State, Zip (country if needed):
Link to where your (blog) answers are:
Do I and your swap partner have your permission to post pics of your 'creation' (ie. on their blog):
How did you hear about this swap:
Comments:

Number of participants to date: 8

Blog Answers that rock! Check it out:

Surviving's Craft Room

Gulnarita

Susy

Amira's Kitchen

Labels: swaps

posted by Sketched Soul at 9:05 AM | Permalink 7 comments

Cupcake Bake Sale

Sunday, July 15, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

AlhumduliLlah! Yesterday we held a Cupcake Bake Sale at a local community center, with all the proceeds going to help the children in Thailand, insha'Allah.

Overall, the event and sales went pretty good, we made a total of $290 (including $90 from donations.. many thanks). Insha'Allah the money will either go directly to the school and they can use it as they wish, or to help buy books to start a library. I shall keep everyone updated on how the money is used, insha'Allah.

Jazak'Allah to all those sisters who helped out during the event, to the sisters who took so much time and care in making such amazing cupcakes for the sale (masha'Allah), and to those who bought cupcakes to support the cause. May Allah Most High shower you with His infinite blessings and give you success in this world and in the next. Ameen.

Insha'Allah I pray I have the opportunity to continue raising funds and helping out the school. If any one has any ideas for future events, please share your ideas. And if you are interested in organizing something in your area to help the school in Thailand, contact me, insha'Allah I'll see what I can do from my end to help out.

Labels: love

posted by Sketched Soul at 7:41 AM | Permalink 0 comments

A Bookshelf In Thailand

Wednesday, July 04, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

.... a humble deed
..... a gracious heart
....... a thundering difference
Islam Witthaya (academy) Beungnamrak is a little school in the rural area of Thailand. It teaches both deen and academic studies, but unfortunately does not have enough funds to hire qualified teachers, or give the children the education they deserve.

By providing the children with books it will insha'Allah be a means to educating them and thus result in a better life.

Please help build a library for them, by sending new (or in very good condition) books to them, in English (especially books that can help them learn proper grammar, etc.) or Thai, Islamic or non-Islamic, suitable for ages 12, 13, 14.

All books can be mailed directly to the school at:

Islam Witthaya Beungnamrak School
42, Moo 13, Klong 15,
Beungnamrak Sub-district,
Bangnampriu District,
Chachoengsao Province
24172
Thailand

(note: Please write "Library Project" on all packages)

The school is for both girls and boys ages 12, 13, 14.

With not enough room the Masjid is also used as classrooms.

To donate funds for the Library Project:
Make a cheque out to: Islam Witthaya Beungnamrak School (and mail to above address)

or

Bank Account Name: Islam Witthaya Beungnamrak School
Bank Account No.: 231-0-05020-2
Krungthai Bank - Branch: Bangnampriu

May Allah shower His mercy upon you, and reward you for your generosity. Ameen.

If you have any further questions, concerns, etc. please feel free to contact me at amtullah79@yahoo.ca. Insha'Allah I shall keep everyone updated on how things are going that end.

PLEASE share this with others. Jazak'Allah.

Labels: help, love

posted by Sketched Soul at 3:20 PM | Permalink 4 comments

Crazy Creations

Friday, June 22, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Ahh.. it has been a while since I've posted.. sorry. Things this end have been very crazy! Speaking of crazy.. my dear bored cousin, who loves art as much as I do, decided 'we' (me and her) need a challenge. So we each exchanged a list of ten items, and now have to create something and include everything on the list.

I shall post both lists below, if any of you are up for the challenge, pick either List One or List Two and make something! I would definitely love, love, to see what you come up with, and I'm sure she would too. (Email me with pics, amtullah79@yahoo.ca) I'll keep you posted on how our creations go.

I for one, have no idea what I am going to make..hehe, and the fun begins! *suggestions are welcome*

List One:
1) some wire
2) 2 circles
3) at least 1 safety pin
4) some calligraphy
5) a reflection
6) some ribbon
7) time
8) some glass
9) at least 1 leaf
10) some powder

List Two:
1) something from nature
2) analogous colours
3) tribal motif
4) a spice
5) leather
6) something made in China
7) a battery
8) a pyramid
9) death
10) glass

Happy creating Fatima, and to all those who decide to try it!

Labels: crafts

posted by Sketched Soul at 10:11 AM | Permalink 2 comments

Creative Cuisine :: 1

Thursday, May 31, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

.... this e-swap will only commence once we have 10 or more participants, insha'Allah.

AlhumduliLlah for all the gifts Allah Most High has showered upon us.

"It is He who produced gardens with trellises and without, and dates, and tilt with produce of all kinds, and olives and pomegranates, similar (in kind) and different (in variety). Eat of their fruit in their season, but render the dues that are proper on the day that the harvest is gathered. But waste not by excess. For God loves not the wasters" (6:142)

Insha'Allah this e-swap will be a means in honoring, appreciating and reflecting on just a small portion of the bounty Allah has provided us.

Ever wonder what all those 'interesting' and 'unusual' fruits we walk by in the grocery store are really like?? Well insha'Allah we are about to find out!

Details of e-swap: Create your own dish or follow a recipe (check the library or internet) using a fruit you have never eaten before. You may want to try 'ethnic' grocery stores if you want something totally different.

Then post the recipe, a picture (if possible), and your details of the whole adventure on your blog/website on the 'Post Date' (given below).

Note: You will need to email me a picture (if using one) and a link to where you have your recipe posted so I can put together a complete list for us to visit each others site.

Participants allowed: International - anyone who can post a recipe online (blog or website)

Ages allowed: All ages.

Cost Limit: Non.

Rules: Email me a picture and link to where you have your recipe posted by the due date.

Sign up due date: non yet
Recipe POST DATE (the day you post your recipe): participants will be informed.

If you would like to participate, I will need to know the following information.
Please email me (amtullah79@yahoo.ca) *note: CA not COM* the answers below, even if you have participated in a previous swap.

QUESTIONNAIRE TO ANSWER
Name of swap: Creative Cuisine :: 1
Blog name/url: (if applies)
Email address:
Your real name:
How did you hear about this swap:
Comments:

Number of participants to date: 1

Labels: recipes, swaps

posted by Sketched Soul at 10:10 AM | Permalink 3 comments

Lil' Balla Cookies

Thursday, April 26, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barkatuhu

Sugar cookies and kids go hand-in-hand. They love to help make and decorate them just as much as they love to eat them. I made these for my nephew Abdullah, who at the age of three is already a big basketball fan.

The dough works best refrigerated for about two hours, so it's a dough you can make way ahead, and when the kids run out of things to do, you can bring it out and start creating!

I'd love to hear from anyone who gives this recipe a try; what shapes, or interesting decorating you did,... share, share, share your ideas.

Note: Black food colour generally (used here to outline the basketball) does not actually show up as black. It looks more like a very dark blue. But kids are forgiving (masha'Allah), they'll even tell you it's green if you so want it to be green.

Makes: approximately 30-35 cookies - depends on the shape and thickness of cookie

3 cups (24oz/681.6g) flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup (8oz/16 tblsp) butter - softened
1 1/4 cups (10oz/284g) sugar
3 eggs
1 tsp vanilla essence

:: Mix flour, baking powder, and salt together.
:: Beat butter and sugar with electric mixer, until light and fluffy.
:: Add in eggs and vanilla, beat together.
:: Stir in dry mixture.
:: Form dough into 3 balls, wrap in plastic wrap, chill in fridge.
:: Pre-heat oven at 375°F (190°C).
:: Line baking trays with parchment paper.
:: Roll out dough on floured surface to about 1/4" thickness.
:: Cut in desired shape.
:: Optional: sprinkle coloured sugar on or leave plain and decorate after it's baked.
:: Bake for 7-10 minutes (until lightly brown)
:: Cool on tray for 5 minutes before removing.
:: Once completely cooled, decorate!!

Frosting:
1 1/2 cup (12oz/341g) icing sugar
2 tblsp butter - softened
1-2 tblsp water
food colour

:: Mix together until spreadable consistency, you may need more milk.
:: For chocolate frosting, add cocoa, leave out food colour, and add more milk as needed.
:: Decoration ideas: colour sugar, candy pieces, chips, coconut, nuts, raisins and jam.
Note: I don't know if this is enough frosting for the above recipe, you may need more depending on how you are decorating the cookies.

Labels: recipes

posted by Sketched Soul at 2:05 PM | Permalink 10 comments

Swaps & Projects

Saturday, April 21, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Any sisters or brothers who are interested in receiving a newsletter about new swaps (for children and adults), give-aways & projects, as well as updates on current swaps & projects please fill in the form below. This newsletter will only go out when needed (i.e: no spam)

Insha'Allah I will be posting a new swap soon, and will no longer be emailing individuals separately, so sign up!

If you have any ideas about future swaps and projects, please feel free to email me at amtullah79@yahoo.ca

Labels: help, swaps

posted by Sketched Soul at 12:54 PM | Permalink 1 comments

As Cute As A Button

Wednesday, March 28, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Aren't they cute?!? These are for The Muslimah Doll Project. AlhumduliLlah, I found it pretty easy to sew their dress.. especially considering they have a chubby little body. Insha'Allah these two will make their way to Ethiopia.

The project is still open for anyone who would like to join us.

We already have some dolls in the album below which you can check out. Masha'Allah! Thank you to all the sisters who are participating in this project.

May Allah Most High, give you success in this world and in the next. Ameen.

Labels: help, sewing

posted by Sketched Soul at 4:05 PM | Permalink 12 comments

Time Is Precious

Thursday, March 01, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu my dear brothers and sisters,

I am so sorry for not blogging for a while - to anyone who still stops by. Jazak'Allah.

It has been a wonderful blog world journey, I've met many absolutely amazing sisters (masha'Allah) and together we have managed to do so much (alhumduliLlah), but I think I should really spend what ever time I can doing things that will be of benefit (ie: in the next world) insha'Allah.

Blogging takes up a lot of my time, so I'll only be using this to post projects, swaps, and maybe my book reviews.. insha'Allah. (ie: anything we can all take from)

Jazak'Allah for everyones du'as, comments, help, and feedback.. very much appreciated. Forgive me if I have said anything that made you upset, that was definitely not my intention.

Insha'Allah I hope to still visit, and read those blogs I have learned so much from. If you have a blog you think I can benefit from.. please leave your link.

Ma'salaama
Farhana

Please remember me in your du'as.

Labels: love, reflection

posted by Sketched Soul at 12:05 PM | Permalink 7 comments

Companions of the Prophet

Tuesday, February 20, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Another two brilliant books done, alhumduliLlah. I feel like I inhaled them *they are that interesting*! In total I learned about 60 companions of the Beloved Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa-sallam). I found the books interesting, beneficial, extremely inspiring.. but at the same time sad. Yes..sad because of what the companions went through (may Allah have mercy on them), insha'Allah their reward is with Allah for their struggle. But more-so a realization of how far we have strayed. How we have muddled our priorities.. we are so busy trying to make something of this world.. that our permanent abode just kind of fades into the background, unlike the life of the companions.

Title: Companions of the Prophet
Author: Abdul Wahid Hamid
Available: MELS

Have I learned anything from it, or was it all review? Actually I did! From little bits of information about companions we are familiar with to companions we have never heard about, or rarely hear about. Example, the first Muslim to ever enter Makkah reciting the talbiyah, who pledged allegiance to the Prophet as a small child, what advice did Abu 'Ubaydah ibn al-Jarrah give before he passed away, who learned to write Hebrew and Syriac in order to help communicate with others,...

Does the Imam use Qur'anic and authentic hadith texts? Yes.. naturally. I also found it so great to read about what was happening when a certain ayah or hadith was revealed.

Is the book easy to understand? Extremely easy to follow, and would be great for younger readers as well.

Notable pages? Every page. I personally love that when I come across any hadith now, I know a little about the narrator.

Out of 5: I rate both books 5.

It would be nice to hear from others who have read these books, what you thought of it, if you have a favourite story in it, or if you recommend any other books about the companions.

Labels: review

posted by Sketched Soul at 8:16 AM | Permalink 13 comments

The Muslimah Doll Project

Tuesday, January 30, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

There is no words to describe the smile on a little girl's face when she receives a doll for the first time. We were all once that little girl, and now Allah Most High has given us the opportunity to be the one giving, rather than the one receiving. AlhumduliLlah.

Details of project: Purchase a doll of your choice and design the clothing for it, using whatever material/method you like, so it is Islamic (ie: modest with her hair covered). You will be sending the doll directly to the orphanage department in that location. Note: when purchasing the doll please take into consideration what area of the world the doll is going to.

Options:
:: You may send dolls to more than one child.
:: You are welcome to give your doll a name.
:: You can email me a picture of the doll/clothing you designed, and I shall put it in an online album.. insha'Allah that will be an inspiration to others.

Islamic Ruling: I have discussed this project with a Shaykh (may Allah preserve him), in regards to the ruling of giving dolls as a gift. He said, "it is permitted to give young girls dolls—even with the full face according to the prevalent opinion."

Participants allowed: International

Ages allowed: All ages. (Note: please, please, be sure you can go through with this.. a little girl is counting on you)

Cost Limit: None.

Rules: Inform ME via email when you have sent out your package.

Sign up due date: Indefinite. When we've reached maximum participants (enough to send a doll to every child), sign up will be closed.
Project start date: As soon as you receive a number and an address where you will send the doll.
Package HAS TO BE MAILED OUT before: as soon as possible, insha'Allah

If you would like to participate, please email me the following questionnaire at amtullah79@yahoo.ca (note: .ca NOT .com)

:: If you would like contribute to this project (ie: pay for shipping), but do not have the time, etc. to purchase a doll (and/or design the clothing) please email me for further details.

QUESTIONNAIRE TO ANSWER
Name of Project: The Muslimah Doll Project -1
Blog name & url: (if applies)
Email address:
Your real name:
How many dolls will you be purchasing:
What country do you reside in:
How did you hear about this project:
Suggestions for future projects:
Comments:

AlhumduliLlah we have managed to bring a smile to many orphans, from many areas. May Allah continue give us the means and ability to help others. Ameen.

Number of Dolls sent: 86
Orphanage in Ethiopia: 11
Orphans in Bangladesh: 15
Orphanage in Zambia: 40
Orphans in Indonesia: 20

Labels: help

posted by Sketched Soul at 9:13 AM | Permalink 18 comments

Boar-Bristled Paintbrushes

Friday, January 26, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

For those of us who paint, this may be very useful information, insha'Allah. This question is answered by Shaykh Muhammad ibn Adam al-Kawthari (may Allah preserve him).

What is the ruling regarding using paint brushes made of boar bristles? It is very difficult to find any other and what if one has to buy it for someone who is in one's employ as a painter and you don't actually use it yourself?

The reliable opinion in the Hanafi School and that which is considered to be the established narration (dhahir al-riwaya) is that pig hair is filthy (najas); hence it will not be permitted to use, buy or sell anything made out of pig hair.

The great Hanafi jurist (faqih), Imam al-Kasani (Allah have mercy on him) states in his renowned Bada’i al-Sana’i:
“As far as a pig is concerned, it has been narrated from Imam Abu Hanifa (Allah be pleased with him) that it is considered to be essentially filthy (najas al-ayn), due to the fact that Allah Most High described it as being “filthy” hence it will be unlawful (haram) to use its hair and all other body parts, except that there is a dispensation given for shoe-makers due to need. And it is narrated from Imam Abu Yusuf, in another narration, that it is prohibitively disliked for shoe-makers also. It is unlawful to sell pig hair as mentioned in all the narrations (related from the Hanafi Imams)….” (Bada’i al-Sana’i, 1/63)

And, as Imam Ibn Abidin (Allah have mercy on him) explained:
“According to Imam Abu Yusuf, which is the established narration in the Hanafi School, the hair of a pig is considered filthy and impure. This is the position chosen by Imam al-Kasani in his al-Bada’i and Imam al-Mawsili in his al-Ikhtiyar. Thus, if one prayed with pig-hair more than the amount of a dirham, one’s prayer would not be valid…” (Radd al-Muhtar ala al-Durr al-Mukhtar, 1/206)

Thus, although some Hanafi Fuqaha did permit the use of pig hair out of need, the reliable and mainstream opinion is that it will remain unlawful. The established narration mentioned by Imam Ibn Abidin (Allah have mercy on him) is that pig-hair remains filthy, and this is the position chosen by most other Hanafi Fuqaha.

Based on this, it will normally not be permitted for one to use paint brushes made of boar bristles. Indeed it may be difficult to find paint brushes that do not contain boar bristles, but it is not impossible. Paint brushes that do not contain boar bristles can and may be found. And, as Imam al-Kasani, pointed out in the above text, all the narrations from the Hanafi jurists state that it will not be permitted to sell pig hair.

However, one should remember that the above-mentioned ruling is in the situation where one is relatively positive of the paint brush containing boar bristles. If one is uncertain, it will not be unlawful to use it.

Some contemporary Ulama state that if finding paint brushes that do not contain boar bristles is difficult, one may use a paint brush that contains boar bristles provided two conditions are met. This permissibility is based on the position held by some Hanafi jurists that it will be permitted to use pig hair in cases of extreme need, as mentioned in the above text of Bada’i al-Sana’i.

The two conditions are:
1) One ensures that the bristles do not become detached from the brush and fall into the paint, hence becoming attached with the paint onto the wall.
2) One ensures that the bristles are scientifically dried in such a manner that its wetness and moisture is not transferred into the paint.

If one cannot be certain of the above-mentioned two points, it will remain unlawful to use such a paint brush. (See: Nizam al-Fatawa, 1/40)

And Allah knows best

Labels: reflection

posted by Sketched Soul at 10:53 AM | Permalink 2 comments

Nanaimo Bar

Friday, January 19, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

I think it's about time for a new recipe. The Nanaimo Bar is a famous Canadian cookie/bar. It's extremely easy to make since it's a no-bake bar, I love how it tastes; rich and wonderfully chocolatey... but like most Canadian chocolates and cookies they are a little sweet. So you could either cut down the sugar or cut down your snacking time!

Makes 25

Bottom Layer:
1/2 cup (4oz/8 tblsp) unsalted butter - room temperature
1/4 cup (2oz/4 tblsp) sugar
1/3 cup (3oz/5 tblsp) unsweetened cocoa
1 large egg - beaten
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups (16oz/455g) graham cracker crumbs
1 cup (8oz/227g) coconut
1/2 cup pecans (4oz/114g) (or walnuts) - coarsely chopped

Filling:
1/4 cup (2oz.4 tblsp) unsalted butter
2 - 3 tblsp milk
2 tsp vanilla custard powder (or vanilla pudding powder)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups (16oz/455g) powdered sugar
optional: green food colour

Topping:
2 oz milk chocolate (or mint chocolate.. great if you use green food colour in filling)

:: Butter a 9" x 9" pan.

Bottom Layer:
:: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.
:: Stir in the sugar and cocoa powder and then gradually whisk in the beaten egg.
:: Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (1 - 2 minutes).
:: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and chopped nuts.
:: Press the mixture evenly into pan.
:: Cover and refrigerate until firm (about an hour).

Filling:
:: In your electric mixer cream the butter.
:: Beat in the remaining ingredients.
:: If the mixture is too thick to spread, add a little more milk.
:: Spread the filling over the bottom layer, cover, and refrigerate until firm (about 30 minutes).
:: Cut into 25 squares.

Top Layer:
:: Melt chocolate in double-boiler (ie: in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water).
:: Drizzle over each square.

Labels: recipes

posted by Sketched Soul at 1:23 PM | Permalink 13 comments

My Cupcake Creation

Thursday, January 11, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

This must be the first time I am so ahead of getting my swap package together.. it could be because I was so eager to get my ideas rolling. After narrowing it down.. I decided to make a bag for my wonderful swap partner. It's a little difficult making something for someone you have absolutely no knowledge about. Insha'Allah I hope she likes it.

For the cupcake pic on the bag, I first drew out some ideas, then stencilled on the one I liked. Insha'Allah I would like to do a tutorial in the future so others can take a try at stencilling, the easy way. I am very happy with the results, and had a blast making it, so I'm thinking of maybe sewing a few more to sell with the cupcake pic or similar.

The rest of my package includes:
:: A blank handmade card.. that was also just as fun, don't be surprised if you see more posted, one of these days
:: A recipe for some Vanilla Fairy Cakes, insha'Allah I shall also post that recipe up one day

How is everyones cupcake creations coming along??
Please remember to email me a picture of it before you mail it out, so I can put them all together in one photo album for everyone to check out, also let me know if it is okay to add your blog name (and link)/or name to your pic.

Labels: sewing, swaps

posted by Sketched Soul at 8:26 AM | Permalink 22 comments

Maariyah's Mop Hat

Monday, January 08, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Here it is!! My first official crocheted piece.. and a useful piece at that, insha'Allah. I made it for my niece, I think it might be a little big for her, so I may just make her another one or wait until she grows into it. The pattern looked as cute as her (masha'Allah) and I am pretty happy with the results.

I would have loved to share this pattern with everyone, but I think there is a copyright on it, since it's not a 'free' pattern. It can be found in the book Baby Talk, a publication by Coats and Clark. (they have lots of wonderful free patterns, check out their site) It's one of those thin books you can find at Wal-Mart. I shall check into the copyright, and if it isn't I will post the pattern, insha'Allah.

Jazak'Allah Umm Layla for helping me to be able to make something like this. I don't think I would have got any where this quick, had it not been for the book you sent me.

For those who have never tried to crochet.. give it a try!

I would love to hear how other sisters crochet and knitting projects are going.

(edited: 17/01/07 I checked into the copyright of this pattern, and I unfortunately can not share it with you, even if it's just online. But insha'Allah I shall post other patterns I can share.)

Labels: crochet

posted by Sketched Soul at 11:23 AM | Permalink 16 comments

Eid Mubarak

Saturday, December 30, 2006

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Love Farhana

Labels: love

posted by Sketched Soul at 8:58 AM | Permalink 10 comments

Roll n' Jam Fill Cookie

Thursday, December 28, 2006

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

It seems like I just posted Eid cookie recipes. Here is my Eid-ul-Adha cookie recipe I'd like to share with you. The Roll n' Jam Fill Cookie!! It's a cookie we can be creative with, which is what I love about it. And of course it tastes good. It is also very easy to make. (edited 03/01/07: they don't taste good.. they taste beyond excellent!!)

I divided the dough in half. To one half, I added vanilla essence, rolled each ball in sesame seeds and filled the center with strawberry jam. The second half, I added maple extract, rolled each ball in brown sugar, and filled the center with apple-cinnamon jam.

I would love to hear from others who try it out. Please let us know what you rolled the cookie in and what jam, etc. you used as filling.

Be creative!

Makes 40

1 cup (8oz/16tblsp) unsalted butter
2 cups (16oz/454.4g) flour
1/4 cup (2oz/4 tblsp) sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tsp baking powder

Essence/extract of your choice
What you decided to roll your cookie in
Jam of your choice

:: Cream butter.
:: Add sugar, salt, flour, baking powder and essence of your choice.
:: Cut dough into 40 even pieces and form into balls.
:: Roll in what you have decided to use.
:: Place on greased (or parchment covered) cookie tray.
:: Make a thumbprint in the center or each ball.
:: Fill with jam of your choice.
:: Bake at 400°F (200°C) degrees for 10 - 15 minutes.

Labels: recipes

posted by Sketched Soul at 8:56 AM | Permalink 13 comments

Hijab Organizer

Sunday, December 24, 2006

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Ahh.. to be back posting.. blogger has been soooo annoying since I switched to 'beta'..urgh

Anyway.. here it is my dear sisters.. numero uno pain in the bootay sewing project. In August I had bought two fabric pieces and this is what I had in mind when purchasing them. A hijab organizer!! We can't deny we all need one.. how many of us have half our scarves in boxes?, shoved in any drawer space available?, under the bed? we just wear the black one because who really cares to find one that matches?

It turned out great as far as its usefulness. But as much as I hate to discourage a project.. this one was not fun! Mainly because the vinyl has to be sewn with paper over, otherwise it sticks to the machine foot and therefore won't move. (note: I have a problem with things not turning out 'perfect' *uhmm some might call it being a 'perfectionist'* ... so maybe it won't be so bad for someone else)

It's in two sections. The top to hold scarves, the bottom to hold niqaabs, gloves and even has a hijab pin cushion thingy. The lower section also detaches to fold into a 'travel' size scarf holder.. cool eh? *now to travel*

Oh I can finally start my cupcake art now!!! this should be a blast..insha'Allah.

Labels: sewing

posted by Sketched Soul at 12:51 PM | Permalink 14 comments

Seven...you're next!

Thursday, December 07, 2006

As-salaam'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

I can't believe Muslim Wife tagged me!!!.. I actually had to use a few brain cells for this one. Here goes, insha'Allah you don't think I'm very weird.. just a little is fine.

Seven Things I want to do in life:
1. memorize more of the Qur'an
2. help the homeless, and orphans
3. die with the shahada on my lips
4. sew myself an entire outfit
5. snowboard
6. paint a mural
7. plant a vegetable garden

Seven Things I can do:
1. paint an entire house
2. benchpress more than my body weight
3. think before I speak
4. fish
5. draw with a mouse
6. swim
7. cook an authentic dish from more than 20 countries

Seven Things I can’t do:
1. eat a popsicle (sensitive teeth)
2. shout (don't laugh.. it's embarassing when people notice)
3. live without lipbalm
4. eat with niqaab on (some sisters are amazing at this!)
5. write an essay - or anything else that involves writing
6. pretend to care about politics
7. ice skate

Seven things I say the most:
1. oh my God
2. wonderful
3. toodaloo
4. ewww
5. lovely
6. trust me
7. that's nice
and that is the extent of my vocabulary (#5 on what I can't do)

I'm not going to tag anyone, but anyone who reads this, is welcome to try it... and let me know.. so I can check it out, insha'Allah. (and see how many other weird ones are out there)

Labels: me

posted by Sketched Soul at 11:25 AM | Permalink 12 comments

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