Yarnage

Lily Basic Patterns

2012-01-26T07:36:00.002-07:00

The Lily yarn company has put out some basic knitting and crochet patterns that are designed to teach basic skills.

You can find them HERE!

Happy Crocheting!!

Review: Around the Corner Crochet Borders

2011-09-26T12:10:00.003-06:00

I bought Around the Corner Crochet Borders by Edie Eckman this month and although I haven't had the chance to make anything from it yet, I am impressed! It is full-colored with lots of great ideas for colors that would look great with each edging. It is FULL of information about how to adjust so that you can add a border to any fabric project or to a crocheted item.

There are also charts, pictures and instructions for 150 different edgings. There are open and loose designs, tight designs, designs which incorporate flowers, spirals, bobbles and shells. I am excited to have ideas for flannel blankets, clothing edges and blankets. There are so many to choose from! I may never have to choose the same one twice for a long time! That is unless I fall in love with one!

The Sharp Crochet Hook

2011-09-19T07:31:00.002-06:00

I just learned about a great new crochet tool. It's a crochet hook with a sharp tip for getting into fabrics for making a beautiful edge. You'd no longer have to get things hemstitched to crochet around the edge! I just bought an edging book, too! Yay! I hope to get one of these Sharp Crochet Hooks, soon.

Elise Hats

2011-09-12T11:54:00.001-06:00

I bought this hat pattern at the beginning of the month and I have already made two and a half of them. I may be giving lots and lots of these away! It is really simple once you get the hang of it and it turns out looking beautifully! This one is for the new baby of a friend! I got the pattern from: www.mamachee.etsy.com . The pattern also includes a flower to go on the side, but I loved it just like it was!

She has tons of awesome patterns and ideas! She is also the owner of the blog Easy Makes Me Happy, listed on the side.

Review: The Crochet Stitch Bible

2011-09-12T11:46:00.000-06:00

The Crochet Stitch Bible by Betty Barnden is probably my favorite crochet book to this point. It isn't a book of patterns to make purses or afghans, but it is full of stitches that you can use to make anything you want. It has lots of instructions for various different techniques as well. Each stitch is described, shown with a graph and beautifully photographed. There are stitches using simple stitches with minor changes as well as intricate alterations as you gain skills and confidence.

You can easily take a simple pattern or idea and make it look amazing with these stitches!

When I am trying to make something new, The Crochet Stitch Bible is usually the first place I go to decide what the crocheted fabric will look like.

Double Crochet (dc)

2011-09-03T07:57:00.001-06:00

Start a row of chains. For practice do as many as you'd like:

Yarn over.

Insert hook in 4th chain from hook.

Yarn over and bring a loop through the chain. You will now have 3 loops on the hook.

Yarn over and pull the loop through two of the loops on your hook. Two loops will be left on the hook.

Yarn over and pull through the two remaining loops on your hook. Double crochet (dc) created!

Continue to the end of the chain, inserting hook into the next chain each time. At the end of the row, chain 3 and turn the work.

At this point, you'll have to follow what the pattern says. Some patterns will have the chains at the beginning of a row count as stitches and some don't. In this picture, I didn't count them, so there are chains at the end that you do not work stitches into and you don't count as you go.

The thing you have to be careful of is when they don't want you to count them and you do, you end up with a much wider end of project than beginning. The easiest way to avoid this is to just count at the end of each completed row.

Working in the Round Deux

2011-08-31T11:03:00.000-06:00

I thought I'd make working in the round a bit easier. Sometimes I forget to do that! This is more to learn the skill than to make something. Although, you could make the large hole in the middle be a button hole if you wanted to attach it to something...

Start with 8 chs.

Insert hook into the first chain and make a slip stitch.

Insert hook into the chain loop you have just created.

I continued on making sc in the loop. It looks like I stopped at 13 for some odd reason. At this point you are just practicing, so just make whatever fits.

At this point you make a choice (or follow the pattern if you are doing something other than practicing).

You can either make a slip stitch in the top of the first sc.

Make a chain.

And continue on, making two sc in every other stitch and one in the other.

OR you can create a sc in the top of the first sc...

...and continue on.

There are a couple of differences and reasons why you'd choose each. When you use the slip stitch method, the end of the round is much more obvious. The downside, is that when you are making a larger item (like a hat) there will be a line going down the side where the end of row is.

When you choose to use a sc instead, you have to mark the end so that you know when you need to change or where to count from. The great thing about it is you can have a completely invisible end with no seam.

Have fun and please ask if you have any questions!!

Multi-Colored Daisy Scarf

2011-08-29T11:11:00.000-06:00

I've been making these scarves for a while now and one of these days I'll get the pattern completely written out.

I thought it'd be fun to make one for my 6 yr old that was a variety of colors rather than the ones I normally do.

What do you think?

Half Double Crochet

2011-08-29T11:07:00.001-06:00

To make a half double crochet (hdc), make a chain of your desired length. Yarn over:

Insert hook into the third chain from your hook:

Yarn over and pull a loop through the chain. You will now have three loops on your hook:

Yarn over and pull a loop through all three loops that are on your hook:

You have made your first hdc!

Generally, to turn and make another row of hdcs you will work to the end and chain 2, then turn.

I like to use hdcs when I want a look/feel that is softer than using a sc, but firmer than a sc. They are a nice in-between stitch.

I'm working on a mermaid toy for my daugter...

2011-08-27T14:09:00.000-06:00

...and it looks like it's related to a snowman. I think I'll try using a pattern next time!

Charity Links

2011-08-24T11:30:00.002-06:00

Check out the new page at the top for charity links. There are SO many people out there who are crocheting, knitting, sewing and anything else they can think of to help other people!

If you want, we could choose a pattern and I could help you with it so we could donate to some of them!

Free Bootie Pattern

2011-08-06T08:34:00.000-06:00

I can't actually take full credit for this pattern. Several years ago at a church activity, a sister was teaching crochet and she gave out this pattern. I had a baby with me, so I couldn't sit down and learn it then, but she sent me home with a pattern and her sample booties. I have since lost the pattern, but by looking at the booties, I have reconstructed it.

Here is is:

Newborn Booties

Make 2:

Ch 8

Row 1: sc in 2^nd ch from hook and sc to end; 3 sc in last ch. Working in free loops, sc across (15 sc)

Row 2-8: ch 1, turn; sc in each sc in back loop only.

Row9: Ch 3, turn; dc in each sc, join to first dc.

Round 10 & 11: (do not turn) ch 3, dc in each dc around, join to first dc of round

Round 12: ch 1, (dec with sc over two dc) twice, dec with sc over 3 dc, (dec with sc over two dc) twice. (use hidden type for better visual appeal). FO leaving long end. Weave end through sc of last round and hide end.

Ties: ch 50, FO. Weave into top of bootie leaving room to tie a bow over ankle.

Alternate flower ties: ch3, dc in first ch, sl st in chain (ch 2, dc in first ch, sl st in chain) twice. Continue on with 50 ch. Before cutting off, weave chain through bootie. (ch 2, dc in first ch, sl st in chain) three times in 3^rd chain from hook. FO, weave in ends.

Meeting Time

2011-08-06T08:30:00.000-06:00

At our last crochet group, we decided to start doing this once a month on the first Thursday of each month. Since we've gone through the basics and everyone is at a different level, I want to continue to mostly just have us come and crochet. We can each work on a different project with maybe a few tips thrown in. I don't want to keep adding new things each time. Let's just have fun and learn together.

As always, if you need ANY help in between, don't hesitate to call, text or email me!

Easy Patterns For Our Next Group

2011-07-27T16:12:00.002-06:00

For our next group (August 4th at 6:30) please bring something you want to work on. Whether it's the water bottle holder, one of these patterns or something you've found, I want to let you do what you'd like at this point and I'll help you as you need it!

Tote Pattern

Granny Square Pattern

Beanie Pattern

The charity links at the right also have some patterns that may work for you.

If there is anything you'd like me to help you find, just leave a message here or call and I'll do my best!

YARN!!!

2011-07-25T15:57:00.000-06:00

I just had to share that since Sugar n' Cream and Peaches and Creme yarns are now owned by the same company, Wal-Mart has started actually carrying a decent selection of yarns. It's so nice to go and see TONS of color rather than just a few uglyish ones!

Add to it that other companies are making some awesome yarns that are easy to get, I'm in crocheter's heaven!

I just thought you should know!

3 ways to Crochet in the Round

2011-07-17T16:34:00.000-06:00

As with most things, there are several ways you can crochet in a round. My favorite way, and the one that I think is easiest to get stitches into is the Magic Ring. It is the easiest to get the hook into several times and you can do as many stitches as you want.

In a ring made from several chains is probably the easiest to start with. It is easier to hold onto.

In a chain of stitches.

Ch 4. (Or whatever the pattern calls for.)

Sl st in first ch made.

Ch 1. (Or more for taller stitches.)

Make number of single crochets called for in pattern.

When you get to the end, you can either make a slip stitch in the first single crochet made or make a single crochet in the first single and mark the last stitch in the round. The second method creates a seamless piece.

Magic Ring

Make a loop around your hook.

Yarn over and pull up a loop.

Make a slip stitch.

Make desired number of single crochets.

Pull tail tightly. You can adjust the size of your center hole at this point.

Insert your hook into the first single crochet you made in the circle.

Create a single crochet.

In one chain.

Chain two. (or more for taller stitches)

Insert hook into first chain.

Yarn over and make a single crochet.

Continue making the desired number of single crochets (or other stitches) in chain.

Third Meeting Time

2011-07-17T06:15:00.001-06:00

I'm going to have to find a new meeting time for our third go around. I'm going to be at Bear Lake for the time we scheduled...

Water Bottle Tutorial

2011-07-14T10:33:00.000-06:00

Here is the picture tutorial for the water bottle holder for class:

Chain 4

Insert hook into first chain made.

Yarn over and pull through loop on hook. (Sl st)

Ch 1.

Sc in circle.

(sc in circle, ch 8) 6 times.

One loop made.

Sl st in first sc made.

Ch 4.

Sc in top of next loop.

Ch 8.

Sc in next loop.

Continue until desired height.

Add strap. Finish off.

Water Bottle Holder

2011-07-14T10:11:00.000-06:00

Here is the water bottle holder we are going to learn how to make at tonight's class.

Pattern:

Ch 4, join. Ch 1; (sc, ch 8) 6 times. Ch 4, sc in next loop. (ch 8, sc in next loop) as many times as necessary for desired height. Don’t FO.

Strap:

Ch for desired length. Sl in opposite side of holder. Ch, turn. Sc in each ch across. FO.

If you want the strap to be wider, just make an extra slip stitch in the opposite side of the and sc across in the free loops of the original strap chain.

Finishing Off

2011-07-14T10:06:00.001-06:00

When you have made it to the end of your project or just the end of a section and you need to tie up your ends, here is the way that I finish off.

First, chain two.

Then, make the loop a little bit larger (for weaving in) and cut the loop.

Then, pull the working yarn out.

You're left with a loop with the yarn pulled through it.

Grab the end, and pull.

Tightly.

Now you are ready to weave that end into the work. Use a crochet hook that is a few sizes smaller than they one you made the piece with. Put the hook behind and/or under the various loops on the piece and pull the loose ends to hide them. Cut off any remainders, once you have it under a few stitches.

OR, if you are working with something that you will add another color to, you can just make sure the loose end goes under the new stitches as you go.

(There are other ways to do this, but I like this one the best.)

Whoopdwhoop

2011-07-12T07:03:00.001-06:00

Have you heard of Whoopdwhoop? It is a site where you put things up for swap and when someone wants it, you get 'whoops' credits to swap with other people. No money involved. It's a pretty neat idea. It is still fairly small, but I've had some success swapping back and forth and it's pretty fun!

(If you are interested in joining, give me your email address and I'll send you an invite. --I get some whoops that way! Thanks!)

Turning your work

2011-07-12T06:49:00.002-06:00

Once you have completed a row of stitches, you'll need to turn your work to continue making it taller.

Start by yarning over.

Then, you make one chain. (It will be more chains for taller stitches.)

Turn your work from right to left.

Now you are ready to crochet stitches across again. For single crochet, you will insert your hook in the top of the first single crochet from your hook. Make sure you get under both loops as shown in the picture.

Yarn over.

Pull the yarn through.

Now you have the two loops of a single crochet.

Yarn over.

Pull through both loops on the hook.

You have another single crochet.

Crochet to the end of this row and repeat for as many rows as your pattern calls for or for as long as you want to!

Great list of 'How To' Sites

2011-07-11T15:34:00.002-06:00

I found this link to a lot of other links about tons of crochet how-tos. Have fun!!

Single Crochet

2011-07-11T12:47:00.001-06:00

To make a single crochet (sc), begin with a length of chains.

Insert hook in the second chain from your hook.

Yarn over.

Pull loop through the chain.

Yarn over again.

Pull yarn through both loops on your hook.

And you have your first single crochet.

Continue on to the end of the chain!

Pattern Sources

2011-07-09T14:51:00.002-06:00

The internet provides TONS of great patterns. Most of these links are for free patterns, but some are for purchase as well. Usually, crochet patterns online are pretty cheap, though.

First, if you are looking for a specific pattern, just do a Google search for 'crochet baby booties pattern', or whatever it is you are looking for and you will get a ton of links. Here are some places that usually have a lot of patterns.

Antique Crochet Patterns

Free Crochet Patterns

Crochet Pattern Central

The Chain

2011-07-09T14:16:00.000-06:00

Once you have a slip knot on your hook, you can begin making chains.

Yarn over.

Um, yeah, yarn over.

Twist the hook slightly so that it faces downward and pull the yarn through the loop on your hook.

Keep pulling.

And, you have your first chain!

Continue to yarn over and pull the yarn through the following chains.

This part may take a lot of practice to get the chains to be uniform and large enough to fit the hook back into. As you are going, if the hook won't fit you can loosen the yarn by pulling it back over the shaft of the hook.

Cool New Yarn

2011-07-08T11:38:00.001-06:00

I just learned about this fun new yarn!

How to Hold Hook and Yarn

2011-07-06T17:38:00.000-06:00

First you have to know that there are several ways to hold the hook and yarn. I'm going to show you both here and then most of the rest of my pictures will show my hands demonstrating in the way that I crochet. Whichever way you choose, just know that it is really hard to switch to another way, so you'd better like the one you pick. I do switch a little to relieve tension in my muscles, but it is really awkward.

This way, you are holding the hook like you would hold a pencil.

This way is more like just holding your hook in a loose fist while you pinch the spot made for your thumb.

Next, the yarn. After you've made a slip knot, you hold the yarn in your three lowest fingers. Some people also wrap the yarn around their pinky finger.

Then, you wrap your fingers around the yarn.

Now, here comes another difference. Although the yarn stays in the same place, you will either pinch the tail with your middle finger and thumb as in this picture....

Or pinch it with your forefinger and thumb, as shown here.

(This picture is the way I hold the yarn, and is 'technically' the wrong way. It works great for me.)

Making a slip knot

2011-07-06T12:07:00.001-06:00

To make a slip knot, first you need to place the yarn over the hook from the front to the back

Next, twist the yarn towards you/the front.

Use the hook to go under the yarn and grab ahold of some. (Yarn over.)

Now that you have the yarn,

slightly twist the hool downward.

Pull the yarn and hook through the loop on your hook.

And, you're done!

Now, you're ready to begin!

Crochet Tutorials

2011-07-02T14:47:00.002-06:00

Here are some great sites with tutorials, pictures, video and lists to help you learn how to crochet! Have fun!!

Crochet Memories

Craft Yarn Council

Crochet Cabana

Crochet Guild of America

Needle Pointers

DMC

TipNut

Five Little Ladies Beginner Video

How to Make T-Shirt Yarn

2011-07-02T12:05:00.000-06:00

I just found thisT-Shirt Yarn Tutorial and I thought I'd share it with you. Did you know that you can crochet out of just about anything you can turn into strips? You have to be careful, though. Denim makes my hands REALLY hurt when I've crocheted with it.

My Favorite Pattern

2011-07-01T17:39:00.003-06:00

The Eco Friendly Tote is one of my favorite patterns to make. I have made it more times that I can think of right now. It's easy and makes a great tote for whatever you need.

I've made it with several different yarns and hooks so that I have totes from small enough to only hold a wallet, etc to big enough for a few books or groceries.

I'm a little crazy about totes and purses.

My Favorite Hat to Make

2011-06-30T08:00:00.000-06:00

I love to make projects that don't take a lot of time. I get bored with huge, repetitive projects. One of my favorite things to make are hats. Here is a picture of my favorite kind.

I started with the daisy from Krochet Krystal and then continued into just a normal beanie shape with a little scallop along the bottom.

How to Crochet

2011-06-29T11:56:00.007-06:00

So that I can keep track, you can look back at what we've done and what is coming, I wanted to create this outline. As I create my own instructions, pictures and video, I'll add links to them sot hat this list is complete. I'll also link up to other sites that have great tutorials as I go.

Slip Knot
How to Hold Yarn & Hook
Where do the stitches go?
Chain
Single Crochet
Turning to start a new row
Half Double Crochet
Double Crochet
How to Read a Pattern
Measuring Gauge/Changing Hook or Yarn to Change Size
Where to find patterns
Treble Crochet
Double Treble Crochet
How to Use a Chart
Increasing & Decreasing
Working in Rounds: Finger wrap/magic ring, In a Chain, In a ring of chains
Marking stitches/rounds
Stitch Variations
Adding Variety to a Basic Pattern
Joining New Yarn/Adding a new Color
Tunisian Crochet
Broomstick Lace
Hairpin Lace
Crocheting in Back or Front Loop only
Yarn types/Dye lots
Other Materials to Crochet With (fabric, wire, plastic bags, etc)
Edging/Flannel Blankets

I'm sure I'll add more to this as we go, but if you have something specific you'd like to learn (or help teach), please let me know!

Understanding Patterns

2011-06-29T10:13:00.002-06:00

There are so many terms, abbreviations, symbols, etc to learn and remember, so here is a great site to help you Understand Patterns!

Sign Up

2011-06-27T07:23:00.003-06:00

I'm so excited! I sent around a sign-up and asked on Facebook, etc and I have about 25 people interested in joining the crochet group!! We are going to start on July 5th at 6:30 pm. I hope to see YOU there!

Little Brown Hat

2011-06-24T15:55:00.002-06:00

I wasn't going to start posting here, yet. I was just saving my name, but here I am. I just had to share this little hat with you:

I have been working on it for a little while but I haven't been able to find a pattern I liked or could get to work, so I made up my own. I love the way it turned out and so I had to take pictures and share it with all of you (ie, no one) who are reading this blog that I just started yesterday!

Start

2011-06-23T17:12:00.001-06:00

Since I'm working on starting a yarn group, I thought I'd grab this name for a blog to keep track of things we do.

See you soon!!