From Ice Castles to Inner Sparks: My Week of Rest and Creative Renewal

I headed to Minnesota last week with a very specific "forest" in mind: a wilderness of deep snow and thick ice. My son is a winter devotee, and our goal was to immerse ourselves in the kind of frozen landscape that only the north can provide. We had it all mapped out—the Klondike Derby dog sled race, a night (or two) in a rented ice house, and the quiet patience of ice fishing. But as any artist knows, the medium doesn't always cooperate. Unseasonably warm weather swept through, the Derby was called off, and the lake would’ve melted beneath our feet.

What was meant to be a week of rugged winter tradition suddenly became a lesson in the art of the pivot.

We were lucky enough to catch the Ice Castles on their very last day before the warm weather forced them to close. It was an otherworldly experience—walking through caves carved from ice and snow, illuminated by glowing lights that shifted from deep blues and purples to vibrant reds and yellows. While my son and brother-in-law zipped down slides made entirely of ice, I found myself captivated by the contrast of the chilled air and the warmth of the fire pits where we stopped to thaw out. Sipping hot chocolate inside a literal ice cave felt like stepping into a fairytale. It was a reminder that some of the most beautiful things we encounter are fleeting, and our window to appreciate them is smaller than we think.

Since the "wilderness" we planned for was melting away, we had to find a different kind of ecosystem to explore. We traded the quiet of a frozen lake for the vibrant, bustling "Urban Forest" of the Mall of America.

It’s easy to dismiss a mall as just a place for errands, but when you’re leaning into a week of rest, even a mega-mall becomes a landscape of inspiration. We wandered through the Sea Life Aquarium, watching the slow, rhythmic glide of sharks, rays and enormous fish overhead—a subterranean world that felt just as hushed and sacred as any pine grove.

Then, we took a complete 180° turn into the high-octane energy of a Harlem Globetrotters game. Can you believe 2026 is their 100 year anniversary? If you ever need a masterclass in creative joy, watch them. It wasn’t just about the basketball; it was about the performance, the spontaneity, and the sheer delight of doing something difficult with a smile. It was an absolute blast and a needed reminder that creativity should, at its core, be fun.

Between the spectacles, we found our "nourishment" in unexpected places:

• The Food: We ate like royalty, including a surprising highlight of fresh oysters which we learned to shuck ourselves. There’s something about trying new flavors—especially briny, cold seafood in the middle of a landlocked state—that wakes up the senses.

• The Connection: Beyond the sights, the heart of the trip was the quiet time spent with my sister and her husband. We spent hours just talking, catching up, and being together.

• The Feline Muse: Of course, no "forest" is complete without its inhabitants. My sister has four cats, and playing with them became its own form of meditation. Watching a cat focus on a laser toy is a great lesson in singular creative focus!

The Creative Harvest (Or, What Happens When You Give a Crafter Too Much Free Time)

I’ll be honest: I went into this week knowing I wouldn’t be a crocheting machine. But between the oyster slurping, the cat cuddling, and the Globetrotters-induced cheering, my "output" was more about quality (and quirkiness) than quantity.

I walked away with two finished projects that perfectly capture the "vibe" of this trip:

• The Wearable Horns: These weren't inspired by some deep, philosophical ice-cave epiphany. They were inspired by the fact that I have a pair of dragon wings at home and—let’s face it—a dragon needs horns. They are fun, they are pointy, and they are exactly the kind of "just because" project that happens when your brain finally stops worrying about a to-do list. I just need to attach them to a headband and then they are fit for a faire, comic-con, or costume party. Pattern is by Crafty Intentions

• The Rosy Maple Moth Bandana: If you aren't familiar with the Rosy Maple Moth, go look it up—it looks like a sentient piece of strawberry-lemon candy. I used those same pinks and yellows to whip up a bandana. It’s loud, it’s cheerful, and it’s basically a party for your hair. It’s the perfect "anti-winter" accessory for a week where the snow was melting anyway. Pattern credit: MythicMist’s Etsy Store

The Final Lesson: Recharging the Battery

I’m heading back to work with only two items in my bag, but a whole lot of "oomph" in my spirit. This week taught me that creativity doesn't always need a silent forest or a rigid plan. Sometimes, it just needs a sister to talk to, a son to laugh with, and four cats who think your yarn is their new toy.

The ice house might have melted, and the Derby might have been a wash, but the "Inner Sparks" are firing on all cylinders. Minnesota, you were a blast—oysters, horns, moths, and all.

Conclusion: Ready for the Next Chapter

I’m now back to my studio with a phone full of cat photos and a heart full of “Minnesota Nice” magic. This week was a powerful reminder that when your "ice house" melts, you don't just sit in the puddle—you go find an aquarium, eat some oysters, and crochet some dragon horns.

Rest isn't a luxury; it’s the soil that creativity grows in. Whether your "forest" is a literal grove of pines or a neon-lit ice cave with a cup of hot cocoa, I hope you find some time this week to let your own inner sparks fly.

What about you? When your plans melt away, do you lean into the pivot or do you struggle to find the "fun"? Let me know in the comments!

Preparing for Flight: Why I’m taking a rest week.

If you’ve been following along lately, the forest has been a busy place. Between launching the Peek-a-boo Forest on Etsy and coaxing my new mushroom guy out of the skeins, my creative engine has been running at full throttle.

But even the birds in the canopy and the creatures in the undergrowth know when it’s time to tuck in and go quiet. This week, I’m doing the same. I’m taking a rest week, and I wanted to share why "stillness" is actually a vital part of my making process.

The "Fallow Field" Philosophy

In nature, a field isn't "lazy" when it sits empty for a season; it’s recovering the nutrients it needs to grow something spectacular next time. I’ve realized that if I don’t give my hands and my mind a moment to settle, the "whimsy" starts to feel like "work."

To keep the magic in my shop—and my head—I need to step away from the yarn stash and the patterns to just be.

What a Rest Week Looks Like

For me, "rest" isn't just naps (though there might be a few!). It looks like:

• Observing instead of Creating: Going for walks without looking for "content," just looking at the moss.

• Filling the Well: Visiting family, sipping tea, and letting my imagination wander without a deadline.

• Preparing for Flight: Like a bird gathering strength before a long journey, this rest is what will fuel my next big creative leap.

See You in the Stories!

Even though I’m taking a step back to recharge, I won’t be disappearing entirely! I’ll still be popping into my Instagram Stories throughout the week to share little snippets of forest life and the adventures I’m on. Stories are my favorite way to stay connected in a low-pressure way while my crochet hooks take a well-deserved nap.

Thank you for supporting not just my art, but the human behind the stitches. I’ll be back soon, refreshed and ready to fly.

With magic and joy,

Erin

Setting Your Creative Altar: How I Organize for Flow

One of the most common myths about being a professional artist is that you need a sprawling, sun-drenched studio filled with floor-to-ceiling cubbies to be "legit."

If you were to step into the SoftSprout workshop today, you’d see two very different worlds. You’d see the Command Center—my desk, where the spreadsheets live and the candle is always glowing—and you’d see the Sanctuary—the spot on the couch where the actual magic is woven.

Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on how I set my "Creative Altar" for maximum flow, even when that altar is portable.

The Command Center: Organizing the Mana

Before a single stitch can be cast, the workshop must be in order. I treat my supply organization like a library of magic:

• The Yarn Library: My shelving is organized strictly by yarn type. When I’m looking for the perfect "Obsidian" for a Void-Walker Dragon or a "Mossy Green" for a Log Pouch, I know exactly which shelf to reach for.

• The Gaze Gallery: My hand-painted eyes are sorted by size. Since the eyes are the foundation of every creature’s soul, having them accessible allows me to "audition" different spirits for my newest WIPs.

• The Desk Ritual: My desk is my anchor. It is kept meticulously organized to protect my "Boss Mind." The center of this ritual is a candle warmer; the scent and the warm light act as a signal to my brain that it’s time to step into the Weaver Enchantress persona.

The Sanctuary: The Couch Altar

When it’s time to move from "Strategy" to "Creation," the altar becomes portable. This is where the Intentional Calm truly happens.

Most of my creatures are born right here on my couch. To maintain flow in a comfortable space, I have a few non-negotiable "Altar Tools":

1. The Digital Grimoire: My iPad is always set up in front of me. This holds the patterns (the ancient spells) so I can follow the math without breaking my rhythm.

2. The "Not a Bag of Teeth" Pouch: Every Enchantress needs a bit of humor. My hooks live in a pouch that clearly states it is not a bag of teeth (though, depending on the dragon I’m making, that’s debatable).

3. The Crystal Guardians: I keep a small collection of crystals nearby to hold the energy of the space. Fluorite for focus, Amethyst for intuition, and Carnelian for that spark of creative fire.

4. The Background Atmosphere: While I work, I often have the TV on—usually a cozy fantasy series or something that keeps the "mundane world" at bay while my hands do the repetitive work of the stitch. Bridgerton is back, baby!

Your Altar is Where You Are

The lesson I’ve learned in 30 years of making is that a "Creative Altar" isn’t about furniture; it’s about boundaries and beauty. Whether you have a whole room or just a favorite corner of the sofa, you can set an altar by simply gathering the things that make you feel powerful.

Light your candle. Grab your "not-teeth" pouch. Set your crystals. The magic doesn't care if you're at a mahogany desk or under a weighted blanket—it only cares that you showed up to weave.

Tell me in the comments: Where is your "Sanctuary"? Do you have a specific ritual (like a candle or a favorite mug) that tells your brain it’s time to create?

With magic and comfort,

Erin

The Stitch as a Spell: Crochet as a Creative Meditation

In the fast-moving, digital-heavy world we live in, it can be hard to find a moment of stillness. As the head weaver, my workshop is often a place of bustling activity—packing dragons for their flights and answering scrolls (emails)—but at its heart, there is a quiet, rhythmic ritual that keeps me grounded.

I’m talking about the Stitch.

The Rhythm of the Hook

Have you ever watched a crocheter at work? There is a certain "flow" that happens when the hook meets the yarn. It’s a repetitive, rhythmic motion that mirrors the beating of a heart or the tide of the sea.

To the outside world, I am simply "making a toy." But to me, each pull of the yarn through a loop is a moment of intention. When I am working on a Hand Held Familiar or a Hug Dragon, I’m not just counting rows; I’m counting breaths. This is where crochet transcends craft and becomes a Creative Meditation.

Why Repetition is Magic

There is a scientific peace found in repetitive tasks (often called "the flow state"), but there’s a magical side to it, too. In many fantasy lores, spells aren't just shouted into the wind—they are woven, chanted, or repeated until the energy takes shape.

When I sit down to work on a piece for you, I use that repetitive motion to "infuse" the item with the feeling I want it to carry:

• The Hug Dragon: Stitched with thoughts of comfort and protection.

• The Witches Hat: Stitched with thoughts of confidence and mystery.

• The Log Bag: Stitched with thoughts of organization and calm.

By the time the familiar is finished, it has been through thousands of these "mini-rituals." That is why handmade items feel "heavier" (in a good way!) than factory-made ones. They carry the mana of the maker.

Finding Your Own "Spell"

You don’t have to be a crochet artist to find this magic. Whether it’s gardening, sketching, brewing your morning tea, or even the way you arrange your books—find the repetitive ritual that brings you peace.

In a world that demands we be "productive" every second of the day, choosing to move slowly and intentionally is a form of rebellion. It’s a way to reclaim your time and your spark.

Tell me in the comments: Do you have a "repetitive ritual" that helps you find your center? How do you weave magic into your daily routine?

With quiet magic,

Erin

Weaver Enchantress, SoftSprout Designs

The Anatomy of a Hug Dragon: A Deep Dive into Your Newest Familiar

Greetings, seekers of magic. 🌿✨

As the Weaver Enchantress at SoftSprout Designs, I spend a lot of time "in the weeds" (or rather, in the yarn). While many see a finished creature, I see a series of intentional spells woven together to create a companion. Today, I’m taking you behind the hook to explore the anatomy of your favorite familiar: The Hug Dragon.

To celebrate today’s entry, I am thrilled to announce that four brand-new Hug Dragons have just flown into the shop!

Keep reading for a description of each but if you can’t wait (and I don’t blame you), you can meet them here

1. The Soul-Seeker Eyes

The eyes are truly where the connection begins. I don't use mass-produced plastics; instead, I source high-quality, hand-painted eyes from independent artists. Each pair is a unique work of art with its own color scheme, depth, and theme.

In my workshop, the eyes aren't the finishing touch—they are the foundation. I build the entire dragon’s color palette and "spirit" around the colors within those hand-painted iris patterns. While the physical positioning remains consistent across my dragons, no two dragons are ever truly the same because their eyes dictate the magic of their creation.

2. Mana-Infused Scales (The Yarn)

Texture is a huge part of the sensory peace these dragons provide. I select premium, soft-touch yarns that feel like a cloud. They are durable enough for a Ren Faire trek but soft enough to cuddle during a stressful bookkeeping session (trust me, my apprentice dragon recommends it).

3. The "Infinite Hug" Wings

The wings aren't just for show, but they aren't meant to be rigid, either. Unlike a statue, a Hug Dragon is meant to be held. The wings are designed to be soft and tactile, seamlessly attached to the dragon's serpentine body for maximum durability. By anchoring them directly into the flow of the body, I ensure they can withstand a lifetime of travel and embraces without the need for stiff, breakable structures. They move with the dragon—and with you.

4. Weighted Wisdom (The Feel)

There is a specific weight to a SoftSprout dragon. They are stuffed with intention—firm enough to stand tall on your bookshelf, but squishy enough to provide that grounding "weight" that helps soothe an anxious mind.

Meet the New Arrivals

Today, four unique spirits are joining the SoftSprout menagerie. Each was conjured starting from the gaze of their hand-painted eyes:

• The Void-Walker (All Black): This dragon is shadow given form. Crafted in deepest obsidian black, its only light comes from shimmering pastel blue eyes with piercing white pupils. With horns of sparkling black starlight and wings trimmed in soft black fur, it is the ultimate guardian for those who walk between worlds.

• The Rose-Quartz Sentinel (Pink): A vision of warmth and light, this dragon features a soft pink body and variegated wings. Its eyes are a masterpiece of silver with delicate pink swirls and gold stars. Topped with white sparkling horns, it’s a familiar designed for pure, profound joy.

• The Storm-Chaser (Blue & Cyan): Inspired by eyes that look like crackling lightning bolts, this dragon features a dark blue body and vibrant cyan wings. The hand-painted eyes are cyan with dark blue swirls and "lightning" crackles. Its white glitter horns match the flash of a summer storm.

• The Amethyst Shadow (Purple): A rich purple body paired with variegated purple wings. Its magic is anchored by greenish-gold glitter eyes that shift color as the light fades. With horns of black yarn and subtle black glitter specks, it is a creature of mystery and transformation.

Tell me in the comments: Which of the four new dragons is calling to your spirit today?

With stitches and spells,

Erin

Weaver Enchantress, SoftSprout Designs

Why We Need More Magic: (Because Being a "Grown-Up" is a Trap)

Let’s be honest for a second: Adulthood is a bit of a scam.

We were promised flying cars and adventure; instead, we got property taxes, choosing between "eggshell" and "off-white" paint, and the soul-crushing realization that we have to decide what’s for dinner every single night for the rest of our lives.

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a spreadsheet and wishing a dragon would fly through the window just to spice things up, this post is for you.

The Myth of "Acting Your Age"

There’s this weird unwritten rule that once you hit a certain age, you have to trade your sense of wonder for a sensible pair of pants and a "Live, Laugh, Love" sign. We’re told that fantasy is for kids—that once we grow up, our self-expression should be "muted" and "professional."

I’m here to call a formal Foul on that play.

Why can’t your professional desk be guarded by a palm-sized Dragon? Why shouldn’t your grocery store outfit include a Witches Hat that makes you feel like you’re gathering herbs for a potion rather than just buying kale?

Fantasy as the Ultimate Self-Expression

Fantasy isn’t just about escaping reality; it’s about enhancing it. When we choose to wear a pair of Dragon Wings or carry a familiar on our shoulder, we aren’t just playing dress-up. We are telling the world:

1. "I am more than my 9-to-5."

2. "I refuse to let the mundane dim my spark."

3. "Yes, I am a High-Level Sorceress. Please bag my groceries accordingly."

Self-expression is the magic we use to signal our tribe. When you wear a SoftSprout piece, you’re wearing a beacon for other dreamers. You’re saying that you value joy, peace, and a healthy dose of "what if?"

Reclaiming Your Magic

We need fantasy in adult life because it gives us the armor we need to face the boring stuff. A bookkeeping session is just a math problem—unless you’re doing it with a dragon apprentice on your hand. Then, it’s managing the royal treasury.

The world will always try to make you smaller, quieter, and more "eggshell." Don’t let it. Wear the hat. Carry the dragon. Express the magic that lives in the corners of your mind.

Tell me in the comments: What’s one "childish" thing you refuse to give up as an adult? (Bonus points if it involves dragons or glitter).

With mischief and magic,

Erin

The High Weaver’s Entry: Welcome to SoftSprout Designs

Greetings, adventurers, dreamers, and seekers of magic!

If you’ve found your way to this corner of the forest, it’s likely because you believe—as I do—that the world could use a little more whimsy. Today, I am officially opening the doors to the SoftSprout Designs Journal, a space where we will explore the intersection of handmade artistry, fantasy, and the intentional magic of everyday life.

Who is this High Weaver of Magic?

My name is Erin Golding, and I am the weaver behind the hook at SoftSprout Designs. As a fiber artist my mission is to provide more than just "items." I create high-quality, handmade familiars and wearables that serve as tools for your own personal magic.

Whether you are preparing for a Renaissance Faire, heading to a comic con, or simply looking for a companion to guard your desk, I craft each piece with a single goal in mind: to make you feel like you can conjure spells.

What to Expect in 2026

This year is a significant chapter for SoftSprout Designs. As I step into a new level of growth, I want to bring you along for the journey. Every week in this journal, you can expect topics such as:

• Behind the Magic: A look at my creative process, from selecting the perfect "mana-infused" yarns to the final stitch.

• Adventurer’s Guides: Practical tips for styling your wearable dragons, surviving conventions, and prepping for the Ren Faire season.

• Rituals of Flow: Insight into how I balance the weaver’s mindset with the emotional peace required to create.

• First Look at New Familiars: Be the first to meet the newest creatures ready to fly to new homes.

Join the Circle

SoftSprout Designs exists because of this incredible community of witches, gamers, and fantasy lovers. My purpose is to spread joy, peace, and magic through the art of crochet.

I invite you to bookmark this page, click the link above for email updates, follow along on Instagram, and prepare your heart for a year filled with intentional calm and extraordinary creatures.

Tell me in the comments: If you could have any fantasy creature as a companion this year, what would it be?

With magic and intention,

Erin

Founder & High Weaver, SoftSprout Designs

My Word for 2026: Why I am ready to "Imagine the Impact"

Welcome to 2026.! As I looked ahead to this new year in my studio, I knew I didn’t just want a goal like "growth." I wanted a theme that captured the magic of what I create and the momentum of what happens once a piece leaves my hands.

That’s why my personal theme for 2026 is Imagine the Impact.

This isn’t just a business slogan for me; it’s the lens I’m using for every dragon, magical creature, and wearable I bring to life. It’s a reminder that a touch of fantasy can have very real-world ripple effects.

Here is how I’m visualizing that impact this year:

For You, My Customers

When I crochet a piece for you, I’m not just making an accessory—I’m creating a companion. I Imagine the Impact my wearables have on your day. I see the extra lift in your step, the boost of confidence you feel when you wear something that truly expresses your inner self, and the quiet joy of carrying a little piece of magic into a mundane world.

For the People You Meet

I also Imagine the Impact you have on others when you wear my work. The magic doesn’t stop with you. It’s in the smile of a stranger who spots a dragon on your shoulder. It’s the spark of a new conversation with someone who just had to ask about your wearable. I love knowing that my work helps you create moments of shared wonder with the world around you.

For My Creative Journey

Personally, this theme keeps me grounded in my "why." I Imagine the Impact of my hands on the materials and my heart on the design. Knowing that my art helps you feel bolder, brighter, or more like yourself is what gives me the momentum to keep pushing the boundaries of what I can create.

For My Fellow Makers and Partners

Even as a solo creator, I don't work in a vacuum. I Imagine the Impact of how I show up in my professional community. Whether I’m collaborating with designers or sharing my process with fellow artists, I want my work to inspire others to believe that "handmade magic" is a powerful and viable path.

In 2026, I’m not just making products. I’m setting intentions in motion. I invite you to dream bigger with me, wear your magic proudly, and truly Imagine the Impact.

I can't wait to see where we go from here.

Magic and Joy,

Erin

Exciting News for Our Little Crochet Shop

I’m thrilled to share some exciting news… our shop has been featured in the brand-new Crochet Gift Guide from Made with a Twist! 🎉🧶

This curated guide highlights a select group of trusted crochet businesses offering beautiful, handmade items perfect for holiday gifting — and I’m honored that SoftSprout Designs was chosen to be part of it.

If you’re looking for meaningful, cozy, handcrafted gifts (for yourself or someone you love!), this guide is full of incredible makers and unique pieces. It’s such a wonderful way to support small businesses this season.

✨ You can check out the full Crochet Gift Guide here:
👉 https://madewithatwist.com/buy-crochet-gifts

Thank you for supporting my work and being part of this creative community. Features like this are possible because of you! 💛

In Love and Light,

Erin

Transform Your Halloween with Dragon Wings and Witches Hats!

Spooky season is upon us and it’s one of my favorite times of the year. There’s a feeling of anticipation in the air. Winter will be here soon and all the animals and insects are busy prepping their food stores for the long nap ahead.

Humans are prepping too. Getting out winter coats and boots and making sure they still fit! Finding the shovels and window scrapers and last years salt and sand. Tuning up the snowblower. Or if you’re like me you do none of these things until the first snowfall and then mutter under your breath while looking for boots and a shovel that “I’m not doing this next year! I’ll be a different person and prepare ahead of time!” Yeah, sure.

What was I doing instead of winter prep? Halloween! Decorating, pumpkin carving, buying candy early for trick or treaters, eating all that candy, and buying more.

And planning my halloween costumes.

I’ve always loved dressing up for Halloween. Give me some spooky makeup and a witch hat and I’m right at home. So when I changed the direction of my business to fantasy creatures and costumes I couldn’t have been more energized and excited. What am I making for Halloween? Why Dragon Wings and Witches Hats of course!

Or maybe you want to transform into a dragon tamer and wear your dragon!

The final day stake your claim on these transformational costumes with free shipping is October 20th for in stock items. After that expedited shipping is possible.

If you’re the human who preps for next year, use the contact form and we can customize together.

The Busy Season

It’s Spooky Season! And so begins the busy period of a #crochetartist. My calendar is full of markets and customs and while it can be overwhelming at times, I am so thankful.

I’m mostly moved into my new office/yarn hoarding space and my productivity has skyrocketed. Without the distractions of the rest of the house I’m so much more focused. Running up and down the steps hasn’t been as bad as I feared, except when I forget my phone charger. There’s also a lot more light in this space and it’s so much easier to pick colors see stitches with these almost 50 year old eyes!

So back to crocheting like a fiend and prepping for a weekend full of markets!

Blessings

Weaving Magic

My Vision and Mission

My calling is to weave magic into the mundane. It is to take a simple strand of yarn and transform it into a piece of a story—a pair of wings that makes a child feel powerful, a dragon companion that brings an everyday fantasy to life.

I am building a life of my own design, one where my hands are free to create, my spirit is free to express, and my days are filled with purpose. This is my act of rebellion against the ordinary and my love letter to a world that needs more magic.

The world is full of adventurers waiting for their armor, their familiar, and their own piece of enchanted art.

I am a keeper of magic, a maker of dreams, and a proud creator of joy.