If you're a lover of spicy food, then you'll understand the magic of chili. Its fiery flavor can transform even the most basic of dishes into something extraordinary. Whether it's adding a kick to a bowl of soup, making a marinade for grilled meats, or creating a fiery salsa, chili has the power to elevate any dish. Fortunately, for chili lovers, there are plenty of options available to get your chili fix. You don't have to travel far to find a delicious chili dish; it might be closer than you think. Many local restaurants or food trucks specialize in chili-based dishes, serving up steaming bowls of chili con carne or chili mac and cheese.

An Interview with Shala Jones of Black Purl Magic

This month we got the chance to chat with our July Pom MAL sponsor, Shala of Black Purl Magic and dig deeper into her work-life balance. She shared about having a spot in this large sea of makers and how she landed on her iconic vinyl accessories.

How did you come up with the name Black Purl Magic and what does the name represent for you?

Black Purl Magic is a play on the hashtag #blackgirlmagic. "Black girl magic" means knowing that it may be more difficult at times but no one can stop you from what you wish to achieve in life because of the color of your skin. As a BIPOC knitter, this resonates with me because knitting is a craft not often associated with women of color but we can do it too!

Where did the journey begin for BPM and how has it changed with time?

BPM was born in 2018 as a maker of stitch markers and pins. Bags were never on the agenda but we saw a need and filled it! I started bag making in 2019 with no prior sewing experience. It began with cotton bags and finally arrived at vinyl bags in 2021 when BPM became my full-time gig. I was able to bring so many ideas to life operating at 100% capacity.

Your bags are ICONIC and we wonder how you decided to venture into vinyl (fabric)?

Thank you sooooo much! Whew! It has been a journey with the vinyl, for sure. As a neurodivergent knitter I lose A LOT of notions and even projects. Transparent project bags were a clear solution for me. That plus being a mom to a gymnast, I needed something to throw around and my precious suede and leather bags weren’t up for that challenge.

Speaking of vinyl, we know that can be tricky to work with, was that a huge learning curve for you?

Yes and no. Vinyl is a heavy material and attempting to sew it on my domestic machine was CRAZY! This pushed me to invest in an industrial machine and that made the task 95% easier. There are still tips and tricks that I’ve learned along the way but I’d say the machine upgrade was my saving grace.

Did you always know this was the direction you wanted to take your business? Project bags, maker tools, etc?

Yes. Black Purl Magic was founded with the intention of bringing functional maker tools to the table. Project bags were an add on and vinyl bags were completely unexpected.

What is your favourite product you have created?

This is a tough one. I’ve made some pretty cool creations! I think my favorite would have to be the BAB (big ass bag). It’s just larger than life and fun! My go-to festival shopping and beach bag.

What’s your advice on staying motivated while running a small business?

Slow and steady wins the race. Move at your own pace and know that no matter what other people bring to the table, your vibe will attract the right people. Your people will find you. They will wait for you. They will show up for you and they will carry you.

What is the most stressful part of your business or what do you wish your audience understood better about your business?

Definitely, the time and dedication that goes into each piece. I’m a solopreneur and extremely type A. This means that things move a little slower around here but the results are almost always on point as I am triple-checking each item. Lol.

What new things should folks look out for from Black Purl Magic in the future?

New materials! Vinyl has been an amazing wave for us! We are really looking forward to exploring different textures and bringing more bags to life.

How can people find your products for sale?

Our products are sold through our website blackpurlmagic.com. We also do a few in-person shows each year which we usually announce over on Instagram.

You can follow the BPM journey on instagram at @BlackPurlMagic and shop their maker tools at BlackPurlMagic.com

Black Magic - Ready to Ship

Size Spider Strands Variant sold out or unavailable Spark of Madness Variant sold out or unavailable 4 Plies of the Apocalypse Variant sold out or unavailable Best of the Worsted Variant sold out or unavailable Fluff Master Variant sold out or unavailable Chonky Boi Variant sold out or unavailable

Increase quantity for Black Magic - Ready to Ship

• 2 Ply Sock/Fingering Weight
• 80% Superwash Merino
• 20% Silk
• 100 grams / about 400 yards

Spark of Madness

• 2 ply sock yarn
• 75% superwash merino, 20% nylon, 5% silver stellina
• 100g
• about 438 yards

4 Plies of the Apocalypse

• 4 ply sock yarn
• 25% nylon and 75% superwash merino
• 100g
• about 436 yards

Best of the Worsted/DK

• 8 ply light worsted/DK yarn
• 100% superwash merino
• 100g
• about 218 yards

• 3 Ply Heavy Worsted / Aran Weight
• 100% Superwash Merino
• 100 grams / about 181 yards

• 3 ply bulky yarn
• 100% superwash merino
• 100g
• about 106 yards

*All yarns are dyed in a home with dogs. Animals are not allowed to play with the yarn, but their hair tends to travel. Please be aware if you have allergies.

Many local restaurants or food trucks specialize in chili-based dishes, serving up steaming bowls of chili con carne or chili mac and cheese. These establishments have perfected the art of chili-making, blending spices, herbs, and different types of chili peppers to create an explosion of flavors in every bite. Not only can you find chili magic close by, but you can also create it in your own kitchen.

Care information

To retain bright colors, do not store in direct sunlight. Items crafted from this yarn should be handwashed (or machine washed in delicate /handwash cycle) and then either laid flat or hung to dry.

Colors should be bright and permanent, but if you find any of the dye running from your fabric or yarn, soak in hot water with a bit of acid citric acid or vinegar) then rinse well. Do not dry in a machine.

With the wide availability of chili powders and chili flakes, you can experiment with different heat levels and flavors to create your perfect bowl of chili. Whether you prefer a smoky chipotle flavor or a fiery habanero kick, the options are endless. Chili is also incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. From chili dogs to chili burgers, from chili nachos to chili-stuffed peppers, the possibilities are endless. It's a dish that can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary restrictions. So, next time you're craving something spicy, remember that chili magic is close by. Whether you choose to seek out a local chili establishment or whip up a batch in your own kitchen, let chili's fiery flavor transport you to a world of deliciousness..

Reviews for "The power of chili magic: taking your recipes to new heights"

1. Emily - 2 stars:

I was very disappointed with Chili magic close by. The service was slow and the staff seemed uninterested in helping. The food itself was lacking in flavor and was not worth the price. I would not recommend this place to anyone looking for a good chili experience.

2. John - 1 star:

I had high expectations for Chili magic close by, but unfortunately, I was left extremely disappointed. The chili tasted bland and lacked the rich, bold flavors I was expecting. The portions were small for the price, and the service was subpar. Overall, it was a forgettable dining experience, and I won't be returning.

3. Laura - 2 stars:

I recently visited Chili magic close by and was not impressed. The chili lacked depth and tasted more like a watered-down soup than a hearty dish. The portion sizes were meager, especially considering the high prices. The service was also slow and inattentive. I left feeling unsatisfied and wouldn't recommend this place to chili lovers.

4. Mike - 1 star:

Chili magic close by was a letdown. The chili lacked any distinct flavor, and it felt like I was eating a bowl of tasteless mush. The service was incredibly slow, and I felt ignored by the staff. The prices were also overpriced for the quality of food provided. Save your money and go somewhere else for a better chili experience.

5. Sarah - 2 stars:

I had high hopes for Chili magic close by, but I was underwhelmed. The chili lacked complexity and tasted like it was missing some key ingredients. The portions were small and left me hungry. The service was mediocre, and the staff seemed disinterested in providing a positive dining experience. I won't be returning to this establishment.

Take your chili game to the next level with chili magic close by