Greetings Friends!

Usually I like to write about good things, you know - projects that have worked out well.  Pretty things that I've made or tips that I've figured out to help make things easier for us.  I don't often write about - or read about -  projects that have gone wrong!  In fact, when I was planning my posts this one was supposed to be about a super cute hearts and cables cowl.  It still is about the cowl - just not the super cute part... Let me tell you what happened:

I have been knitting for less than a year - I cast on my first swatch last February 21, 2013.  (I only know that because of the blog - before I looked I thought it had been a few years!)  Anyway, in that time I have done a lot of knitting, and I really like it!  Most everything that I've made has come out nicely, and I'm continuing to stretch myself and try new things.  So after making a very lovely cowl for my mother-in-law for Christmas I decided to do a little (more) pattern modification.

I guess I was feeling pretty confident.  In my mind I could see a Valentine cowl with cables & hearts - that look like X's & O's. For this new project I took the basic size (cast on 100 stitches) and the hearts repeating 4 times around then added the cables, a sewn bind off, and a crocheted trim around the bottom. Unfortunately, things didn't turn out the way I planned.  I'm not sure if it's my inexperience or if it's just the nature of knitting, but I'm never really sure exactly what is going to happen when I bind off.  Seeing the project off the needles for the first time is always a surprise - and after all that work, the last thing that I want is to be disappointed - which seems to happen most when working in the round.

This cowl is the perfect example of thinking that everything was going along splendidly only to find out that it wasn't!  It doesn't look too bad in the picture, but in real life the bottom is a good 2 inches smaller than the top and the top edge rolls down hiding the pretty hearts and cables. I didn't even bother with the bottom trim because I knew it never was going to be what I had hoped!

 Take a look at the first cowl.  It's the Sweetheart Lacy Cowl by Cheryl Murray from the book 50 knitted gifts for year-round giving. It's beautiful right? I followed the pattern for main body, but changed the top to the sewn bind off.  I also decided to crochet the bottom edge instead of knit the edging and then sew it on as the pattern indicated.  The main difference between this one and "mine" with the cables is well -  the cables.  I also only did two repeats of the hearts and included a few more rows between them to space them out a bit. 

So what have I learned and what comes next?  I've learned that knitting in the round allows you to avoid seaming, but prevents you from getting a good look at the real size of the item.  That I need to practice binding off - so that one day my tops and bottoms will be close to the same size. And I've learned that even small changes to a project - like a few extra rows here or there can sometimes end with unexpected results!

I've also learned that I don't run into these kind of challenges when I crochet.  If I start with 100 stitches in the round and end with 100 stitches I'm certain that my bottom and top will be the same size.  I also don't have to worry about what the project really looks like - because you can see the whole thing. 

Does this mean that I'm going to stop knitting? No way!  I love knitting and I really do love a challenge! So far I've tried the traditional bind off and the sewn.  I know that there are still more out there - and eventually it will all come together!  In the mean time - adding crochet edging helps - and so does using a little clear elastic to firm up an unruly top!

Will I keep making changes to the patterns?  Of course I will.  It's a way to express my creativity and continue to grow as a fiber artist.  When I first started crocheting I never would have dreamed of doing something different from what the pattern said - now I use them as a guide.  As a framework to help be build and shape new projects.

What will become of the cables and hearts?  I think that they look good together and that there is potential.  Maybe a scarf?  Ribbing is always an option to give stability to the body of the cowl and stop the top from rolling down.  And finally I'm thinking that I should just let it rest while I work on something else!  We all need a little space one in a while - especially after things go wrong!

Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me.
Until next time friends,
Be Blessed and Stitch & Read with Love!

Greetings Friends!

Are you afraid to try  knitting cables?  You love the way they look - the texture and motion they give to garments, but the idea of adding another needle into the mix is more than you're willing to attempt?

Fear no more!!  For I was once like you!  Timid and leery of a third needle for stitches to slip off of.  Because really, how would I possibly fix that kind of mistake when it takes every once of concentration to pick up a dropped stitch in a simple knit row? The skills required to make cables are basic.  It's no more than slipping stitches and knitting (and sometimes purling).  The tricky part is wielding that third needle.


It's typically a three step process:
1) Slip the stitches onto the cable needle and hold it in back (or in front) of the body of the project.
2) Knit the required number of stitches (according to the pattern) using the main set of needles (making sure the slipped stitches on the cable needle stay in back or in front of the project).
3) Knit the slipped stitches from the cable needle to the main needle.

That's it. Piece of cake right? I know you may not believe me yet, but I promise you can do it.  The two biggest challenges I have with cables are making sure the stitches don't slid off, and actually knitting from the cable needle.  While working on this cowl I had an ah-ha moment.  I was looking through my supplies for a larger cable needle (I have several that were given to me when I started knitting) and I came across my 12 inch circular bamboo needles.  Honestly these needles haven't been good for a whole lot (they're too small for most projects and the short needles are tedious to work with). But I thought why not use it instead of the short slippery metal cable needle?  Ah-ha!

Right away I knew I was onto something.  Once you slip the stitches onto the circular needle you can just let it hang in back or in front of your project.  No more worrying about dropping stitches!  When you're ready to knit the slipped stitches just slide them up to the tip of the needle and you're in business.  I find that it really works like a dream.  There was some concern that the hanging circs. would get in the way, and I imagine if you don't have a short stubby pair of 12 inchers that could be a problem.  For me the piece of mind that I get from not worrying about dropping stitches is worth it. Don't have circular needles? I've been told that using a bamboo double pointed needle is a much better option than a slippery metal cable needle. 

The other part of cables that took me some time to master is the language.  Cable abbreviations seem confusing.  The first time I saw C6F and C6B I was stumped.  Now that I understand the construction of cables it makes perfect sense.  Here's what I learned.  Basic cables are formed when you work stitches in front and in back of other stitches. The C tells you you're making cables, the number is how many stitches you'll be using in total and F or B lets you know where to hold your slipped stitches. So C6F is a Cable worked over a total of 6 stitches, holding slipped stitches in Front. That means that you will slip 3 stitches onto your cable needle and let it hang in front of your main body of work. Knit 3 from your main needles, then knit the 3 slipped stitches. C6B is a Cable worked over a total of 6 stitches, holding slipped stitches in Back.  So that means you slip 3 stitches and let them hang in back of your main body of work. Knit 3 from your main needles, then knit the 3 slipped stitches.

Like everything in knitting, cables come in many shapes and sizes.  They can be classically simple or wonderfully complex.  Personally they are one of my favorite fabrics.  I love the texture and movement they bring to any garment. My desire to create cables is one of the reasons that I learned to knit!  Using the short circular needles instead of a standard cable needle has really been a breakthrough!  I still have plenty to learn, but understanding the language and how they're made makes me feel like I can tackle more complicated patterns with much more confidence!

So what do you think?  Are you ready to give cables a try?  I hope you do.  And for my knitting friends who are well versed in the ways of the cable, I would love to hear from you!  What kind of cable needle do you use?  Do you have any tricks or tips to share?  One last thing, I'm looking for my next cable project and welcome any pattern suggestions you might have.

Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me!
Until next time friends,
Be Blessed and Stitch & Read with Love!

Greeting Friends!

It's October already!  Wow!  For so many reasons this is my favorite time of year.  New England foliage and the brisk, refreshing weather rank at the top of the list, but so do the bounty of holidays: Halloween, Day of the Dead, I Love Yarn Day, and my birthday!  I try to come up with an October project that embraces all of these favorite things.  Last year I filled our house with little pumpkins. (Check out the post, and the link to the super easy pattern!) 

This year's inspiration comes with a story.  Last year I signed up for an account with Stumble Upon. As instructed, I selected several categories I was interested in (crochet, knitting, photography, nature etc.).  Like Pinterest, these were the topics that I would see when visiting their website.  I did a bit of stumbling (that's what they call it), and promptly forgot about it.  Because really, how many social networks can I be a member of ?  Anyway, I must have signed up for emailed "highlights" because about once a month I'll get a message with links to what's hot in my categories.  Usually I just glance, but recently something caught my eye.  It was a skull scarf and a series of pictures showing how to make the skull.  Cool.  This is something I'm willing to stumble over to!

After 15 frustrating minutes of trying to remember which version of my username and password I used I finally made it to the page.  As it turns out, it was just a jpeg - with no link to the website or person who contributed it.  But that's okay, because I just wanted to print the picture and try making the skull.  Printing proved another challenge and required saving the image to my desktop and printing from there.  I'm not so thrilled with my stumbling experience, but I am glad they delivered the skull picture to my inbox.

I made the skull according to the pattern.  It came out okay, but as I was making it I was thinking of all the things that I would do differently next time.  After a few hours of trial and error I came up with my version of the skull - and this is what I am sharing with you today. Because next to pumpkins, what can be better in October than skulls!?!  However, I realize that if it hadn't been for the creative person who posted their skull scarf on the internet, I wouldn't be sharing my version with you today. 

The original picture has a watermark on it for a face book group: ClubeDasCrochedeiras.  After much searching, I was able to locate them and the original picture!  It appears that the group is Portuguese.  While I wasn't able to figure out exactly who posted the pattern, I was able to reach out to the group and say thank you.  I know that there are only so many ways that you can make a skull motif, and that nobody would have ever known if  I just posted my  version without this story.  But I know, and even though I could have come up with the pattern on my own by looking a pictures on the internet, someone in Portugal gave me a good foundation and made it a whole lot easier, and for that I am thankful!

And so my dear friends, here in my version of the skull motif.  I've been having a great time making them.  Once you've done a few they're super quick.  Like all motifs there are lots of ways you can use them.  Link them together like our Portuguese friends to make a scarf, use them as coasters, hang them in your window as spooky decorations or just make them because they're fun.  No matter what you do with them - Enjoy!!

The Pattern

I used worsted weight cotton and an f/5 - 3.75mm hook for the white skull.  I've made several and prefer this combination.  The finished size is about 3 3/4" x 5". The cotton has nice structure for this kind of motif.  However, use whatever you have on hand.  Skulls are a great stash buster!!  The first one I made was a little messy, by the fourth one I had the pattern memorized and they came out neat and even!

Step 1: Ch 14, sl st in beg ch to form loop.

Step 2: Ch 14 (again), sl st in 14th ch from hook to form another loop.  Now you should have 2 loops that look like the number 8 or a pair of glasses.

Step 3: Work 18 sc evenly around the first loop, then work 18 sc evenly around the second loop.

Step 4: Using the yarn tail left at the end of the starting chain, wrap it snugly around the space between the eyes 3 or 4 times.  Secure the end by pulling it through the loop you make while wrapping.  This gives your skull a nice finished look.

Now you’ll be working in rows to create the Top of the Skull above the eyes (the forehead!)

Set Up Row: Sl st in the next 7 sts.  This will get you from between the eyes to the top edge so you can start working in rows.

Row 1: Ch 1, turn. 14 sc across top of eyes.

Row 2: Turn (don’t ch 1), skip 1st sc, 12 sc across, leave last sc unworked.

Row 3: Turn (don’t ch 1), skip 1st sc, 10 sc across, leave last sc unworked.

Row 4: Turn (don’t ch 1), skip 1st sc, 8 sc across, leave last sc unworked.

Row 5: Turn (don’t ch 1), sc in each sc across. (8 sc)

Stop here and use stitch marker to hold your place. Cut yarn leaving about 36 – 48 inches.  After finishing the lower portion of the skull you’re going to come back to the marker and use the extra  long yarn tail to create the border around the skull.  You can fasten off after Row 5 and the reattach the yarn for the border, but if you do it this way there are fewer knots and tails to weave in.

Bottom of the Skull (the nose and teeth)

Turn the skull upside down.  Find the center under the eyes, count 7 stitches right and join the yarn in that stitch.

Row 1: Sc in same st as join and in next 3 sc, ch 4, skip 6 stitches, sc in next 4 sc. (8sc, ch4 sp)

Row 2: Ch 1, turn. 4sc, 4sc in ch 4 sp, 4 sc. (12 sc)

Row 3: Turn (don’t ch 1), skip 1st sc, sl st in next 2 sc, ch 4 (counts as 1 tr ch), tr ch in next 5 sc, leave last 3 sc unworked. (1 unworked, 2 sl st, 6 tr ch, 3 unworked = 12 sts)

Row 4: Ch 1, turn, sc in each tr ch across , sc in top of ch 4. (6 sc)

Fasten off.

Border around the Skull

Go back to the top of the skull where you left off (at the stitch marker). Ch 1, then evenly sc all the way around the skull. Work 2 sc into the corners at the cheeks and bottom of the jaw for smoother transitions. (52 sc)

Finish off with the invisible join or with a sl st into the starting ch.

Weave in the ends, and lightly block to the correct shape. Enjoy!!

But first I decided that I should probably know just a little bit more about the tradition.  I'm happy to report that the skulls are used as a way to recognize and remember loved ones who have passed on.  Day of the Dead is celebrated in central and southern Mexico on November 1 & 2.   The indigenous people  believe that the gates of heaven are opened at midnight on October 31, and the spirits of all deceased children are allowed to reunite with their families for 24 hours. On November 2, the spirits of the adults come down to enjoy the festivities that are prepared for them. The sugar skulls, which are often adorned with the name of the deceased, are part of the alters that families prepare in anticipation of their loved ones visit.  If you'd liked to read more about this interesting tradition visit MexicanSugarSkulls.com.

Working with thread can seem intimidating.  I know the first time I picked up a tiny steel hook and #10 cotton thread I thought isn’t thread for sewing?! I felt out of my element.  There were a few rough moments, I won’t kid you, but with a little perseverance I discovered the magic feeling you get when bits of thread suddenly come together into a recognizable work of art that you created!

As an avid reader, bookmarks always seem in short supply at our house.  How better to combine my two passions than by designing a pattern for thread crochet bookmarks!

For the thread newbies out there I’ve taken lots of pictures to show you how it’s done.  If you’re very new to crochet, and have never made a granny square before I do recommend that you make a few with worsted weight yarn and an H hook before you try the thread.  As long as you’re comfortable with basic crochet techniques, and know the standard stitches than you should have no problem entering the wonderful world of thread.

1.     Don't be afraid! I know the hook and thread seem impossibly small, but give it a chance.
2.     All projects look messy and are hard to hold/work during the first few rows or rounds.  Keep going and it         will come together.
3.     Always work in good light and when you're not tired.
4.     Many patterns for yarn can be adapted to thread, and doilies are always in fashion.
5.     Take the time to use an invisible join instead of a slip stitch to join rounds.
6.     Use standing stitches to start rows/rounds instead of starting chains.
7.     Learn the join-as-you-go technique for motifs and grannies.
8.     Weave in ends as you go.
9.     If your hook is too thin to hold comfortably try wrapping the end with scrap yarn for an easy custom                handle.
10.   Blocking and stiffening your finished project are worth the time.

Rnd 3:  Join C in any ch2 corner sp. (ch3, 2dc, ch2, 3dc) in same ch2 sp, ch1. * 3dc in next ch1 sp, ch1, (3dc, ch2, 3dc) in next ch2 corner sp, ch1. Repeat from * 3 times. 3dc in last ch1 sp, ch1.  Join with sl st to starting ch3.  Fasten off.

Joining Rnd 3:  Join C in any ch2 corner sp. (ch3, 2dc, ch2, 3dc) in same ch2 sp, ch1. 3dc in ch1 sp, ch1.
(now we start the joining edge) 3dc in ch2 corner sp of working square, ch1, sc to join in any ch2 corner of finished square, 3dc back in same ch2 corner sp of working square. Sc to join in first ch1 sp of finished square. 3dc in ch1 sp of working square, Sc to join in next ch1 sp of finished square. 3dc in ch2 corner sp of working square, ch1, sc to join in next ch2 corner sp of finished square, 3dc back in same ch2 corner sp of working square, ch1. (join is finished) 3dc in next ch1 sp, ch1. (3dc, ch2, 3dc) in next ch2 corner sp, ch1, 3dc in last ch1 sp, ch1. Join with sl st in top of starting ch3. Fasten off.

Attach remaining squares in the same fashion.

Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me.  Be sure to check back for the final installment in my working with thread mini-series. I'll show you how to stiffen your bookmark and other thread projects using plain old white glue.  For your convenience I've included a downloadable copy of the pattern, just click on the link below and enjoy!

Until next time friends,
Be Blessed and Stitch & Read with Love!

Greetings!

Throughout the summer I've been dabbling with different thread projects.  Keeping them short and sweet helps to ensure that I'll stay interested and actually follow through to the end!  I was working on the review of the book 100 Colorful Granny Squares to Crochet which meant that I tried out several of the patterns.  I made some with worsted cotton and more with cotton thread.  It didn't take long for a collection to develop.  They were just too pretty to leave in a basket, so I bought a bunch of plain white washcloths and hand towels to embellish.  Stitching one square to each washcloth worked beautifully (you can see how I did it in this post).

I wanted to try something different with the towels.  Flipping through my library of books and magazines I came across a pattern for lace edging that was perfect -  the Dolly Dish Towels in the Sept/Oct 2012 issue of Crochet Today.

It was just a coincidence that I had the same color thread they used on hand. The soft cotton towel was supple enough to work the foundation row without pre-poking any holes, and once that was done the design rapidly took shape. Perhaps the toughest part was making sure that I had the right multiple of stitches evenly spaced along the bottom of my towel. After finishing this quick and easy project I understand why lace edging is such a classic embellishment.  In times past if you wanted something fancy you had to make it yourself, unless you were wealthy enough to pay someone to make it for you.  Adding lace to household linens makes them look good and was probably excellent practice for more intricate pieces like wedding dresses, veils and christening gowns.  While I don't see any of those in my future, my towel and washcloths make a lovely addition to our bathroom.  My husband says they're too nice to use, but I say they're too nice not to!  

That's all for now.  Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me.
Until next time friends,
Be Blessed and Stitch & Read with Love!

Crochet is one of the youngest of the fiber arts.  Textiles are easily traced back to the Stone Age, but the first written reference to crochet (or crotchet as it was sometimes spelled) wasn’t until 1812.  The early patterns (of the 1840’s) gave detailed instructions on the use of the hook, possibly implying that crochet was not a needle craft familiar to the ladies of the day.  We know that fine lace was tremendously popular during the Elizabethan Period (1558-1603).  These early laces were made using needles or bobbins of thread that were woven into intricate patterns.  They were very expensive and took a long time to produce making it available only to the wealthy nobility.

Even though the art of crochet is a relative newbie its history is quite impressive.  In 1846 & ‘47 crocheted lace helped save many Irish from starvation during the Great Potato Famine.  How? A group of nuns taught men, women and children the art of making lace.  When Queen Victoria accepted the laces as a gift and started wearing them they became instantly fashionable.  With their work in such high demand, many families were able to earn enough money to survive the famine and even immigrate to America.

Irish Lace was all the rage and its popularity continued to grow as patterns became available.  Mlle.  Elanore Rigeo de le Branchardiere, one of the most gifted artists/designers of the time, published numerous books of thread crochet techniques and lace patterns from 1846 - 1887.  She was best known for her ability to write clear and precise instructions allowing anyone who could afford her books to produce the intricate designs of the Irish style.

At a time when resources were limited and ingenuity was necessary, other forms of crochet proved indispensable.  Of course I’m referring to the granny square.  This simple motif (that may have originated as a thread pattern) when worked with scraps of yarns left over from other projects or recycled from old garments became a favorite for crocheters allowing blankets and throws to be fashioned from otherwise useless materials.

Thread crochet in the 20th century adapted to the ever changing conditions of our economy.  Like all of the leisure arts, in times of moderation projects would take on a utilitarian style. Crocheters would focus on making items that were relevant because of their function and affordability.  During times of prosperity function could become secondary and crocheters would create exquisitely frivolous projects purely for pleasure.  However, thread crochet projects nearly always have the ability to look good!  Even the simplest washcloth is easily adorned with a little lace border turning it into something special without adding much to the overall cost.

In the 200 years since the first mention in print, thread crochet has moved in and out of fashion.  Proficiency in needle work was once necessary for ladies as part of their education.  As women’s roles have changed so has our relationship with fiber.  What we were once expected and even required to do we now must choose to learn.  However, fiber arts such as crochet, knitting, spinning and weaving have experienced a resurgence and they are now more popular than ever.  Many of the patterns that were originally written by our foremothers have a timeless quality that makes them just as relevant today as when they were published. So what’s changed?

With the colors that are available and the adventurous spirit of the latest generation of crocheters there’s nothing old fashioned about thread today.  Of course there will always be a place for doilies and lace edging, it just might look different than you expect! Here's a glimpse at what we're making today:

Everyone!  Young, old and in between!  Let’s just say that the image of gray hair and rocking chairs has been replaced by tattoos and pink hair.  Okay, maybe not everyone has pink hair, but today's crocheter is young (no matter how old, we’re young at heart!), hip and through various electronic devises virtually connected to other fiber enthusiasts.  And it’s definitely not just for the ladies.  In fact some of today’s top designers are men!

I think that we’re at something of a crochet crossroads.  Historically we’ve seen that what we make and how much time we spend making it has been influenced by what’s going on in the world.  Given our current climate, history would dictate that we’re making utilitarian projects and not spending a lot of time enjoying the leisure arts.  But that’s not what we’re doing.  Sure, we’re making (pretty, colorful) things you can use, but we’ve discovered that crochet is a great way to relax and unwind.  Our lives our hectic and busy, we’ve got lots to do, and our resources are limited.  We’ve learned that we have to take care of ourselves and that we need economical outlets that help us to decompress when dealing with tough situations.  Thread crochet fits the bill perfectly.  For a minimal investment you can purchase several balls of thread and a set of steel hooks that will keep you stitching for months!  It’s portable, easy to learn, and convenient.  There’s also the added bonus of the on-line fiber community.  Not only can you find groups dedicated to crochet on social networks like Facebook, Pinterest and Google+, we have our very own network in Ravelry!  It’s like the modern version of the quilting bee where like-minded fiber enthusiast get together to share friendship, tips and encouragement!

Are you ready to grab your steel hook and get started creating something exciting?  If you’re worried that it’s too hard or too small, don’t be.  The stitches and techniques are the same whether you make them with yarn or thread.  Yes it does take some time to get your tension right and to feel comfortable with the hook.  But, with a few helpful hints and a little practice you’ll be amazed at what you can do!

I hope that you’ve enjoyed this look at the evolution of crochet.  We are the new generation and it’s up to us to carry on the traditions while continuing to expand our craft.  We have the opportunity to make our mark on history by ensuring that the designs we create today are available to the crocheters of tomorrow.

Be sure to come back for Part II of my series on Thread Crochet.  Next up is a pattern and tutorial for a project that’s perfect for all skill levels.  If you’re looking for more information on the history of crochet The Encyclopedia of Crochet by Donna Kooler is an excellent resource.  Or you can check out The Granny Square Project.  It’s a 5 part series all about crochet's most popular motif, and you'll find the links at the top of blog in the sidebar!

Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me.
Until next time friends,
Be Blessed and Stitch & Read with Love!

Greetings Friends!

Today I've got something really cool to tell you about.  If you ever visit me on any of the social networks you may have already seen this hat, and have heard me talking about My Mountain.  So what is My Mountain? It’s a little hard to explain, but I’ll give it a try… The concept started as a promotion in Europe where the Schachenmayr Yarn Company asked people what gives you that exhilarating feeling of accomplishment, or the adrenaline rush like you’ve just slalomed down a black diamond trail or summited a world class peak.  Now they're reaching out to North America to see how we challenge ourselves and what makes us feel like we're on top of the world. Well, I’m not much for mountain sports,  but there are a few things that make me want to throw my arms in the air and let out a big whoop of joy!

Right now my greatest mountain moments come from creating original crochet designs. It's something that I'm just getting into, and the process of going from idea to sketch then watching as it comes to life with the yarn and hook is just awesome.  The final thrill comes from putting the whole thing together on paper so I can share it with you.  How cool is it then, that as part of the promotion the folks at Schachenmayr Yarns and Westminster Fiber are having a My Mountain hat design contest. By submitting a design using their yarns you can be eligible to win some really awesome prizes.  As if that weren't enough, by emailing [email protected]  they'll even send you the yarn for free! I don't know when the cut off for the yarn request is, but your finished hat pictures need to be submitted (also by emailing Linda) by August 30.

Using the yarn that they sent me I came up with this 1920's / Gatsby inspired design.  If you know the book then you know that Daisy was bold and sassy.  I think she would have rocked this hat, so in her honor it's called Daisy's Cloche.  In addition to this beautiful violet colorway, they also sent me their new specialty Lumio yarn that has threads that reflect when you take a flash picture.  I've made a hat similar to Daisy's that I'm just about finished with.  I figure it they were kind enough to send the yarn then I'm going to use it to make some cool hats for their contest!

I'm not sure how the winners are going to be picked, and while winning is always nice, the truth is that participating in the promotion has been a great experience.  The yarn that they sent is squishy, soft and so pretty.  Plus it's really given me the confidence to come up with my own designs.  Lately I've been doing a lot of work with thread, and I don't usually use super bulky yarn so it was a real challenge to move outside my comfort zone and try something new.  My initial thought was what on earth am I going to do?! I started brainstorming and incorporating some of my favorite thread elements (like the flowers!) and before too long the cloche was born.  Along with the designing, it's also given me a reason to work on my pattern writing skills.  I think the presentation of the pattern is really important.  One of my biggest pet peeves is bloggers who share their designs, but don't have downloadable PDFs.  I never work from patterns on my laptop, and I don't have a tablet.  That means in order to print I have to copy and paste into a Word document.  It's not hard, but the formatting is always off and honestly unless the item is really special I usually don't bother.  With that in mind, I'm working on a layout that I can use for all of the patterns I share here.  My goal is to  design something that I want to use - with a little background, clear pictures and of course accurate instructions! 

If you're interested in making Daisy's Cloche for yourself or for a gift (the holidays are coming!) just click on the link below and you're in business.  Because you're using such thick yarn the whole project comes together really quickly making this a great pattern to keep on hand for when you're looking for a fast project that looks harder than it is!  Since I did edit the pattern myself you may come across something that doesn't make sense.  First, accept my apologies and then let me know about it so I can fix it!

Good luck to my fellow entrants - I hope you have as much fun as I did creating your designs.  Thanks to the folks at Westminster Fibers for reaching out, sending the yarn and encouraging us to embrace life, conquer our mountains and live each moment to the fullest! 

Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me. 
Until next time friends,
Be Blessed and Stitch & Read with Love!

Greetings Friends!

The recent break in the hot weather has me thinking about fall (my favorite of all the seasons)!  One of the best things about the cooler weather is wearing wraps and shawls.  I have several that are crochet, but none that are knit.  For the past year or so I've been pinning and bookmarking patterns for the someday when I'd finally give knitting one a try.

It's been a while since I picked up the needles so I figured now is a good time to work on my skills.  If you remember, I've only been knitting for less than a year, and my entire repertoire includes one pair of socks, a small stuffed baby toy,  a few pairs of fingerless mitts, oneleg warmer and a scarf and hat that are still in progress. (I have issues with finishing I know!)

I sifted through the mass of beautiful patterns and finally settled on one called Blossoms by the Brook. It's quite lovely and looks like it will keep me interested and be a good way to practice lacy techniques.  It calls for worsted weight yarn and since I have a bounty of acrylics in pretty colors I decided that's what I'll use.  Normally I'll pick a fiber that feels better next to the skin, but since this is my first attempt it seems the wiser choice to use something economical.  If all goes well then a knit shawl in gourmet yarn is in order, but for now I'll stick with the cheap seats!

I have a fair collection of knitting needles.  However, with the exception of a pair of dpn's I bought to make John's socks they've all been donated.  Which means that lots of them have been very well used.  Many of my crochet hooks came to me the same way and they've always treated me well.  I have learned that all hooks are not created equal and to use the same one throughout a project, but I've never had one not work properly because of it's age.  So when I picked out the size 8 circulars that the pattern calls for I didn't think twice about their condition. I used the long tail cast on and set to work.  The first row is usually tight and hard to pick up, but once I get past that the tension evens out and I can get a good rhythm going.  So why after 4 or 5 rows was I still struggling so much??  That's when I took a closer look at the tips of my needles. Well how about that! The finish was worn off and it's clear that these babies have knit a lot of stitches!  What was once a fine chiseled tip is now blunt and dull! Of course I don't have another pair that size so I had to decide if I want to go up or down.  I chose bigger needles figuring that with the worsted yarn the larger stitches would improve the drape of the fabric.

Wow!  What a difference!  Now I get it.  I had the right tool but it's worn condition made it so hard to work with that I could probably use chop sticks with better results!  And so I've learned a valuable lesson.  Make sure your tips have good points.  For a moment I thought that I had lost my knitting mojo, but once I got going with a healthy set of needles it was smooth sailing.  The larger size has helped with the drape and the pattern is proving to be a fun as I hoped.  Now that I'm nearly half way done I'm already picking out the "nice" yarn I'm going to use for my next knit shawl!

I'm sure that you seasoned knitters know exactly where I'm coming from, and may have even enjoyed a chuckle at my naivety! Somewhere deep in the recesses of my brain I know that I've read about points and lace needles and what makes for good easy knitting, I just got so caught up in the excitement of the project that I never even considered that I might have dull needles!

Crochet and knitting are activities that you really learn by doing. Books and videos are definitely helpful but the real knowledge comes from taking the yarn in hand and getting to it.  One of my biggest knitting fears is having to rip out my work, that's why I'm using life lines.  It's another valuable lesson I learned "on the job".  Yes, it's a bit tedious but I'd much rather take the time to run a safety line than have to leave in a mistake (never!) or start over!

So there you have it.  Check your tips!  Working with dull points is frustrating and time consuming.  Don't let shabby equipment ruin your knitting experience.  Thanks so much for stopping and spending a bit of your day with me.

Until next time friends,
Be blessed and stitch & read with love!

Hello Friends!

It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood and while we may be smack dab in the middle of summer Mother Nature is finally cutting us a break!  When it's hot out I tend to lean towards small thread projects to keep me busy.  Lately I've been focused on pincushions.  When I came across this little gem in the April 2013 issue of Crochet World I knew I had to make it.

The original pattern is for a tape measure holder/pincushion.  Of course I didn't have the same kind of tape so I needed to find something to use in it's place.  At first I thought about just stuffing the bottom, and then I remembered the little jar in my sewing box that I'd been keeping stray buttons in.

As it turns out it was just about the same size as the tape and minimal modifications were needed to make it work.  I figured if I made the pincushion into a jar topper the bottom could be used to hold notions like a needle threader, safety pins, small spools of thread and even the stray buttons, making it into a handy sewing kit perfect for those little mending jobs.

I followed the pattern through Rnd 8 of the Hat Bottom which is just a basic circle.  I added one more round (following the established pattern) so that the circle was the same size as the top of the jar.  Then I worked a round of sc in the  front loops only.  This give you the edge and you can start working down the sides.  I worked 4 rounds of dc in both loops until it covered the top. I finished with a round of sc worked into the front loops to form a small lip.

For the hat I followed the pattern again through Rnd 8, adding one more round just like I did for the base.  This way I knew that when I sewed them together I'd have the same number of stitches on both pieces (54, I think).  I did make one more modification.  I used a different flower than the one indicated.  I'm a fan of the traditional crochet roses so that's what I made using 3 different shades of pink. 

It's a fairly easy project - the magazine says "Confident Beginner" and I'd agree.  Even with the modifications it only took a few sittings.  I almost forgot.  I used a bit of fabric glue to secure the pincushion to the jar top. That way when it stays put when you open and close the jar.  I'm quite pleased with the whole thing.  It's quite charming and will certainly make a lovely gift. 

Well folks that's all for now!  Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me.
Until next time friends,
Be blessed and stitch & read with love!

Greetings Friends!

Last week one of the projects that I showed you was the totally groovy peace sign granny square from Petals to Picots.  My mission was to turn it into a pincushion for lovely young lady named Phoenix who volunteers at our library.  As you can see it was a terrific success and I'm overjoyed with the results.  It's a simple project that came together in just a few hours.  I made mine using Sugar 'n Cream Cotton in Sunshine, Hot Green and Psychedelic and a G hook.

Here's how:

1.    Using the granny square pattern, make just the peace sign.  For the base make a basic circle working in continuous rounds moving the stitch marker after each round. 

2.    When it's the same size as the peace sign work one round into the front loops only.  That forms the little edge and allows you to start working up.  Work 4 more continuous rounds making it about an inch and a half tall. Don't finish off.  To give it a bit more structure using the peace sign as a template, cut a piece of cardboard to fit snugly in the bottom. 

        To make the cushion, using the cardboard circle as a guide, cut 2 pieces of fabric about a 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch larger than the cardboard.

3.    Put the wrong sides of the fabric together and using a basting stitch sew around the circle.  Leave 1/4 inch seam allowance and an 1 1/2 - 2 inch opening.  Leave the needle and thread attached.

4.    Turn the circle right side out and stuff with fiber fill.  Over stuff so it's nice and firm and puffy.  Fold the edges of the opening in and stitch closed.

5.    Plump up your cushion and stuff it into the base.  It should fit snugly.  You could stop right here and have yourself a great little pincushion.  In fact, that's exactly what we're going to be making at the next YA craft class at the library!

6.    To finish, attach the peace sign to the base by single crocheting through the back loops of the base and the front loops of the peace sign.  Fasten off and weave in the end.

Well that it'll do it for me today.  I have all kinds of projects to share with you so please stop back and visit again.  Thanks so much for spending a bit of your day with me,
Until next time friends,
Be blessed and stitch & read with love!