April 26, 2008
April's 12" Square
Made this really awesome square for this round of CLBSX. It's the Victorian Dream Square found here. I love it so much I'm going to make an afghan out of it. it's super fun to make. : )
Posted by jez at 07:53 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
April 23, 2008
Christy's Purse
Made this purse for Christy for this round of CLHBX. I used 2 strands of Fun Fur and a strand of size 3 thread, with an H hook. Oh, and bamboo handles. I am so pleased with how it turned out!
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April 21, 2008
April's Granny Squares
My exchange square for April. Happy Granny Squares!
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April 17, 2008
April Dishcloth
I absolutely love how this dishcloth turned out! i found this fabulous purply varigated cotton at Michaels, and I used a sampler stitch involving a row of X stitches and a row of sc. I am so pleased with this thing!
Posted by jez at 10:54 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
April 11, 2008
Granny Squares for March
Made these cutie squares for March's round in CLGSX. I lurves Granny Squares. : )
Posted by jez at 09:37 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
April 06, 2008
UFO Dishcloth
I've always wanted to try to make a dishcloth around one of those nylon scrubbies, so I finally took the plunge for March's dishcloth exchange on CLDCX2. What do you think? I think it looks like a flying saucer. : )
Posted by jez at 12:40 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
March 27, 2008
The Big Book of Weekend Crochet
Borrowed The Big Book of Weekend Crochet from the library recently, and thougth i'd post my thoughts. nice - had a handful of really neato patterns in it. the patterns were classic, applying basic stitches and details in an appealing and versatile form. the only drawback - too many baby patterns. I really liked several of the sweater/wraps/cardigan patterns, and one or two tank top patterns. The rest was not to my liking. Do I think it's worth the 18.00$? No. But I might consider it used for way cheaper.
Posted by jez at 08:35 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
March 23, 2008
Lacy Big Square
Made this neato beans Lacy big square for the CLBSX exchange on CL. The center pattern is a motif for a thread tablecloth that I really liked. I edged it with dc to make it fit 12" I think it turned out really nice!
Posted by jez at 09:42 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
March 20, 2008
Blue Shawl for my SCP
Made this neato shawl for my pal on Secret Crochet Pals. I really love this blue yarn! I got it as a gift from a friend; her Mom had tons and tons of stuff she used for machine knitting, and this came from that.
My base chain was several inches longer than my arm span, and I did shell, sk 2, sc, sk 2 shell for the body. I edged it with 2 rows of sc, then a row of shells. I am pleased with how it turned out.
Posted by jez at 07:19 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
March 19, 2008
Bday Purse for Tina
Made this lovely purse for my sweet friend Tina for her birthday. I got one from Christy on Bumbles that is similar, and Tina gushed over it. I happened to have a bunch of silk Sari yarn, so I whipped one up for her. Cute, huh!
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March 11, 2008
Shrugalicious!
I made this cute little shrug for Lila not too long ago from this pattern. I poked along at it, taking 2 weeks. Bad, Mommy! She'd near grown out of it between the time I took the measurements to the time she put it on. Sigh.
cute, tho! Baby Poo Poo (the younger cousin) will love it, and soon get it. =p
Posted by jez at 09:09 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
March 03, 2008
Hats for Jakes
One of my math faculty at work is going on sabbatical to Canada next semester, and, in passing, he mentioned his 2 girls had no hats. Hmmmm, I can do something about that!
So I made 6 : )
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February 29, 2008
Interlocking Filet Dishcloth
I made this really cool dishcloth for February's Crochet List dishcloth exchange out of the Interlocking Filet stitch. Sorry for the crappy pics - I ended up taking them at the post office. I absolutely love how the square turned out! Once I got the hang of how the filet interlocked, it was very easy, and I think I will make more of these in the future.
Posted by jez at 07:41 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
February 21, 2008
Spring-y Squares
Made these darling, warm, spring-y squares for the Feb round of CLGSX. I really liked this color combo!
The squares are the Chris Simon's Little Dahlia Square and Lisa's Kaleidoscope Square.
sorry for the crappy shot - i forgot and then took it at the post office.
Posted by jez at 08:45 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
February 09, 2008
The Dafghan
Yaaay! The Dafghan! 120 six inch squares, 40% of which came from CL granny square exchange members. I edged each of the squares with a round of sc. I stitched them together with slip stitches through the back loops on the wrong side, which gave the front an interesting ridge effect. I finished it by edging it with 2 rounds of dc. D loves it. : )
Posted by jez at 01:25 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
February 01, 2008
Square for Arlene
This here's my 12 inch square for January's Big Square exchange, CLBSX. The pattern is called "Lovely in Green" and can be found here. I did it in red, tho, for Arlene. : )
Posted by jez at 09:47 PM | Comments (0)
January 27, 2008
Pink Lace Dishcloth
January's dishcloth for CLDCX2. Shells n Lace, out of 200 Crochet Blocks.
Posted by jez at 09:52 PM | Comments (0)
January 23, 2008
January's Squares
Here's my squares for CLGSX. I used the Fretwork square pattern from 200 Crochet Blocks. : )
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January 08, 2008
Purse for Carmella
Made this purse... did it on the fly, and i think it turned out pretty cute!
Posted by jez at 06:09 PM | Comments (0)
December 27, 2007
Dress Bookmark
I *love* this cute little bookmark. They're super fun to make and remarkably quick and easy. Now dontcha just want one??? : ) You can find the pattern here.
Posted by jez at 10:01 PM | Comments (0)
December 22, 2007
Yea, I know... "Where You Been?"
This time of year is always full o sparse postings as I'm busy getting things made for xmas gifts. Luckily, my fam always gets together AFTER xmas, so I get a few days of extra Hooker time, which is nice.
Work's been crazy busy - I've been getting rid of the many flavors of Rats (those pesky buggy things that always pop up and multiply like rabbits that arent super important but must be taken care of nonetheless) this week, as well as catching up and keeping up before my lovely 10 day break from work. Yaay, xmas. : )
Lila is such a good girl. I attended an assembly last week at her school where she received a merit award for reading. What a good girl! I am so proud of her. : )
I got a new phone... an iphone, if you can believe that, which rounded out my istuff quite nicely. It's a glorious little toy that everyone loves to play with. The best part - work is going to reimburse me for it since I use it for text, IM, and phone contact with my peeps who need library stuff. Even Lila loves the little thing and runs around the house snapping pics like crazy. Here's some of my Lila iFavs:
And my Favoritest of all...
Oh yea, speaking of iStuff, you *so* have to check out the The 2007 Holiday Guide To iCr@p
Been really busy pumping out hat n scarf sets. Like this one, for my niece. I figure it's safe to post it here, cuz she is 3 and definitely doesnt read my blog. =P
Posted by jez at 09:52 AM | Comments (0)
December 09, 2007
December Squares
Made these for my secret santa exchange on CLGSX, with duplicates of course for the Dafghan, which is nearly done!!!!! omg... anyways. back to squares. : ) Of course the squares came from 200 crochet blocks.
Posted by jez at 08:13 PM | Comments (0)
December 08, 2007
Fall Colors Purse
Made this for the Fall Colors exchange on CLHBX for my partner. I used a brown acrylic from my yarn stash and some cute gold thread. I made thread pineapples and tried to make them look leaf like. *lol* I think it turned out pretty cute. : )
Posted by jez at 08:25 AM | Comments (0)
November 18, 2007
Sweet Purse for Lila
Originally made this little thing for the craft fair - I thought it would be a lovely little thing, perfect for holding the necessaries inside a larger bag, and ready for a quick trip to the store or whatever. But... apparently no one else shared my view of it. : ) So, I gave it to my sweet Lila. A sweet purse for a sweet girl. : )
Posted by jez at 10:33 PM | Comments (0)
November 13, 2007
Lacy Swing Top
Ah, the tale of a Yarn finding its perfect Pattern....
well over a year ago I got this fabulous rayon viscose yarn off freecycle. I really love the blue-green, red, silver, dark blue and gold fiber, but I wasnt quite sure what to do with it... so it sat around with a bar of Zum soap for smelly yummyness and waited.
Then, I got my August 2007 issue of Crochet Today, and i *knew* the Lacy Swing Top pattern was made for that yarn!
I did make a few adjustments - I decreased on each side of the center square as I thought that it had a wee too much of swing. and since I made the panels a bit more square with the decreases on both sides, I lowered the join to where it was just above the points of the squares. I think it turned out nice! And i do get scads and scads of compliments on it!!!
Posted by jez at 06:23 PM | Comments (0)
November 08, 2007
Black Purse
My beloved friends n family n coworkers, mostly, rag on me endlessly about my "Muppet Purses" (which are my assortment of purses made from worsted weight yarn and a strand of complimentary fun fur). This one escaped Muppetdom as I found a neato pin for it, complete with a little clock. Turned out pretty sweet, I think. : )
One of these days I'm going to find big, googly eyes and a fuzzy nose to attach to a particularly brightly colored one...
Posted by jez at 09:28 PM | Comments (0)
November 05, 2007
Lace Day
Had a fabulous adventure this weekend with my good friend Ruth. We went to Lace Day in Torrance, and boy, was it something! I'm so glad she convinced me to go! At first I was dismayed that there wasnt much crochet stuff there at all, but that quickly dissolved into astonishment... I, for the first time in my short life, saw real life bobbin lace making! I spent nearly a half hour talking to one lady of the Freeway Lace Guild, and she patiently explained to me as much as she could, from bobbins, to the pinning, to the patterns, to twisting and turning and braiding, and even let me move some bobbins around. It was amazing, and I am really grateful for the opportunity to see such fine handiwork. I am intrigued at how intricate and complicated it all seems... Unfortunately my brain was Out To Lunch, and I forgot my camera, but here's a picture from http://lace.lacefairy.com/BeginGuide.html to show you something similar to what the lady from the Freeway Lace Guild was making (and Goddess Bless, allowing me to mess with!!!).
The super amazing thing? There were a few young, like 8, year old girls making bobbin lace motifs - dolphins and fairies. Wow.
So after I was done being speechless over the really incredible lace, I wandered over to the tatting tables. I've always wondered at that craft, not knowing much about it beyond the need for a shuttle and other things, but I quickly fell in love with this glorious and delicate tatted bookmark in greens and varigated threads to make flowers. That, and that really awesome Celtic Knot book... so, I decided this Dog aint old enough for New Tricks just yet, and bought 2 shuttles and a How To book. Ruth sat with me for a bit after we were done spending money and wandering around rather awe struck, and she showed me how to knot and make loops and picots. It was fairly simple, although we'll see how I feel about that when I sit down to try to make something Celtic. *lol*
Other finds? A really awesome yoke book with reproduced patters from the teens n twenties. Eventually i'd like to make some for nighties and gowns. Oh, and a, get this, size 16 hook. Yes, folks, that's a size 16 STEEL crochet hook. My, my, so small. Oh, and finally, a hairpin lace loom!!!!
When we were done, we went off to a coolio spice store where I got mulling spices for sachets and some spendy cinnamon for my coffee (but not strong enough for coffee, methinks, based on this AM. But DH liked it over his sugary milk-rice the night before). Then, this overwhelming asian version of Costco, called Marukai. omg, wow! it was a neato place full of labels i couldnt read, but delightful ceramic dishes, cool gadgets for the kitchen, and some of the softest cotton undershirts and capri shorts for under skirts. Must go back when rich, oh yes.
Ruth went back the following day, but I was ready for some down time, house cleaning, errand running, crocheting and pogo playing, so I opted out. Apparently, there was this massive table there where all fiber was 4 bucks (Dang It!). Sweet darling Ruth got me this... for 4 bucks. Nearly 2 pounds of fingering yarn, rayon and cotton. For 4 bucks. I kid you not! YAAAARRRRNN!!!
Posted by jez at 08:13 PM | Comments (1)
October 29, 2007
Spindelicious!
Oh, wow!!!!!!! So this is my cousin-in-law, Beth's, etsy site. She goes by Spindelicious, and omg, take one look at her yarn and you'll see why!
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5174840
I am so very impressed! Her yarn looks so yummy... bright colors, and it all looks so soft.
And check out her blog, here
http://spindelicioushandspun.blogspot.com/
Wow, I had NO idea that my dear cousin Will married such a remarkable, creative lady! Check out her mosaic on her blog... i am ever so impressed, and totally humbled.
And she's part of my family!!!!! Whoo Hoo!
Posted by jez at 07:55 PM | Comments (1)
October 28, 2007
Grandma's Doily
Recently we celebrated my Gramma's 90th birthday with a huge bash. I didnt get a card... bad granddaughter, but I did whip up this cute little doily for her. She's tickled, and placed it on her vanity under a folding picture frame.
The pattern is from 99 Little Doilies, and instead of using a size 10 thread and a 7 hook, I used a size 3 thread and a size 1 hook.
Posted by jez at 12:07 PM | Comments (0)
October 25, 2007
October's Dishcloth
Made this for the October round of CLDCX2. I got the pattern from the latest issue of Crochet. The pattern was okay... but I did modify it a bit to make more sense to me. Turned out cute, tho.
Posted by jez at 07:51 PM | Comments (0)
October 19, 2007
Sewing Thread
So recently I was inspired to try my hand at crocheting with sewing thread. My goodest buddy, Tina of Secret Crochet Pals, made the neatest little doily out of this rainbow varigated sewing thread. So, I thought, "oooh, that's neat and I want to try!"
So I chose a large, 15 round, 13" pattern that called for a size 10 thread and a size 7 hook. Since the theme on CLDX, which is what these doilies were for, was fall colors, I dug around and found three shades of orange/brown for my experiment. I chose a size 9 hook.
I really, really love how it turned out, but it's way smaller than I expected! I figured I'd be close to 8", no.... it was a little over 4" (but sure makes a cute little coaster!). I love the texture of the sewing thread, and the unusual color scheme that the three related hues created. I love how it lies flat on it's own, yet remains soft. I hate how the pesky, silly little threads would slip off the hook, which made crocheting this take longer than normal and border on the "I'm about to throw you against the wall" level of frustration. Will I do this again? Absolutely! But I think i'll use 6 strands of thread instead of 3, and a larger hook. : )
And since the requirements for this swap is 1 8" doily or 2 4" coasters, I whipped this cutie up, too.
Posted by jez at 06:30 AM | Comments (0)
October 16, 2007
Yea, I exist
Finally got a new battery for my camera... so the pics will start coming in again.
been quite busy with work, lately. working on several projects, a few articles here and there, and a conference presentation. i'm really excited about the conference presentation (no kidding!) although it is a lot of work, but because this is one place where i'm an innovator. see, we have this content management system called Sakai here at work, and not only have i created lots of library handouts n stuff in there, but i've been teaching it and using it as a networking tool with my faculty and staff. it's been fun... but keeping me out of trouble, and out of fun.
i've also been lucky enough to get involved with the teaching and learning writing initiative here, and boy, that has been, and will continue to be, a real eye opener! it's all about creating writing in courses as a learning tool, and i am getting a lot of ideas on how to incorporate writing into my own library sessions, but more than anything this set of workshops will impact my own ability to write. i'm looking forward to implementing some of the things i've learned in my next set of writing. we're basing our sessions around Engaging Ideas by John Bean, which is a great read and full of some neat ideas. this whole writing workshop is inspiring me to write more, in general, so i gather this will mean i'll be extrapolating here more often, peppering my little bloggy woggy with text in addition to pics of crochet stuffs.
heading off home here in a few days... cant wait! I miss civilized food and i'm eager for breakfast burritos at Millies and the Frontier (my once fav hangout), some Cracker Barrel (a luxury we do without out here. someone please explain that to me, cuz i dont get it), and hanging with the fam. My sis is coming down, of course Dad n Stepmom will be around, and so will my Gramma! it's actually all in honor of her - she's turning 90 next week, and we're all surprising her with a visit! I assume it's safe to write about that here, as I'm sure Gramma doesnt ever look at my blog. : )
Today is Yarn Lunch... Ruth and I will hang out in the dining hall and encourage our students to come craft with us. It's chilly today... good day for a snuggly jacket and some yarn to crochet on. Working on a doily right now; size 3 thread and a size 1 steel hook. fun combo.
k, nuff for now. should go put $$$ on my card so I can eat, which I very much want to do right now.
oh, and since this is Random Ramblings of a Crocheting Librarian... here's some bookmarks I've made for an upcoming craft fair. Just to keep it on topic. : )
Posted by jez at 10:37 AM | Comments (0)
September 09, 2007
Lily Chin's Top 10 Ways to Hide the Stash
Lily Chin's Top 10 Ways to Hide the Stash
1. Tape a bag of yarn to the underside of all the chairs - who'll know???
2. Put a slipcover over a bag of yarn, stick it on the couch, call it a pillow.
3. Remove the cushions of the couch, stuff with yarn instead.
4. There are narrow books that don't reach all the way to the back of the bookshelf. That dead space behind such books is good for several skeins.
5. Do you wear ALL your shoes at the same time? No, stick a skein of yarn in each unworn shoe (boots are great for this very reason).
6. Everyone has clothes in the closet that are never, ever worn. Sew up the bottoms of the garments, insert yarn. Do not forget to sew up bottoms of sleeves. There's enough in each sleeve for more than a bag's worth.
7. Never cook, only order take-out or go to restaurants. You've now got the whole oven!
8. Look to the china cabinet. That large soup turrine? Maybe a bag. Large teapot? A few balls. Covered dish? The same.
9. The freezer is advantageous for fuzzies such as angora or mohair. Make sure to place in plastic bag first. This is known as the high-fiber diet!
10. Get a really large box and fill it up with lots and lots of yarn. Put a tablecloth over it. Voila, instant dresser (but you can't get your feet underneath it).
Posted by jez at 06:36 PM | Comments (0)
September 06, 2007
Purse and Coasters for Mary
I had Mary for the last round of CLDX and CLHBX, so I got to save on shipping. :-p
For Mary's purse, I used this really neato yarn I got from someone on freecycle. I haven't a clue what the yarn is, but I did double it with some size 5 cotton thread to give it weight. I also lined it as things would clearly fall through the holes in the stitches.
For her coasters, I used a size 10 cotton thread an a coaster pattern I got from a library book. They were very easy to make. : )
Posted by jez at 09:47 AM | Comments (0)
September 04, 2007
Squares for August
here's my squares for the August round of CLGSX. I enjoyed working with the red and off white, and these squares were fun to make. : )
Posted by jez at 06:55 AM | Comments (0)
August 03, 2007
Crochet Terms Defined
Crochet Terms Defined
Do those crochet terms and abbreviations have you
stumped? Read on...
Pattern: A set of written instructions that may or may
not result in creating the object in the picture. Most
patterns include a list of supplies, but this is for
your amusement only. After all, Amazonian Rhesus yarn
in smoky turquoise does not exist, and cannot be
obtained. Patterns also have fun-to-do math problems, such as 1
dc in next 7 dc (34 dc made)... ?!
Yo: Yarn Over, meaning you need to wrap your yarn over
your hook. Of course, this assumes the yarn doesn't
split, fray or tangle. If this happens, yo then stands
for, "Yell Outrageously."
Dtrtrc: Double-treble- treble-crochet. This is a
stitch where you yo four zillion times, insert hook in
stitch and pull through the next two loops, repeating
until all loops are off the hook, or until the end! of
time, whichever comes first.
Reverse sc: This stitch is the lefty's revenge on all
of us righties - for once we have to work backwards,
too!
Catalog: A dangerous device that hypnotizes
crocheters. It lulls them into a catatonic state,
causing them to spend the family's grocery money on
patterns and yarn. It may also be an evil plot to
cause the downfall of the American economy.
Hook: A device permanently attached to a crocheter's
hand. It is also connected to her blood supply, and if
for some reason it becomes dislodged from her hand,
she breaks into a sweat and starts to feel faint. If
the hook
cannot be immediately replaced, the only valid
substitute is a catalog (see above).
Yarn: The only reason sheep farms still exist! It's
also what crocheters buy when they have money; if
there's any cash left over, they buy food and clothes.
Doily: This seemingly innocent item looks like a table
protector, but if someone actually tries to put a wet
glass or an ashtray on it, the creator will instantly
turn into a snarling Doberman. Use doilies at your own
peril.
Cat: A non-mechanical device used for unraveling
afghans, unwinding skeins and keeping one's lap warm.
A cat requires daily maintenance in the form of light
stroking.
Dog: Another non-mechanical device that is used for
chasing down balls of yarn and putting tooth-mark
engravings in wooden hooks. It's a high-maintenance
item that does not store easily.
Baby: A valid excuse to crochet something.
Housework: An ancient rite that was performed by some
B.C. women (Before Crochet). Historians believe it may
have had something to do with a device called a
"vacuum cleaner," which was kept in closets now
occupied by yarn.
Posted by jez at 12:12 PM | Comments (0)
July 29, 2007
July's Squares
Made these funky fun squares for July's CLGSX. I really like the green combo, and I also made 2 for the Dafghan, of course, and 2 more in reverse colors. I hope to get that big project done soon... and I already know what kind of 'ghan I want to make next with my exchange squares. Swaps are fun!
Posted by jez at 06:00 PM | Comments (0)
July 25, 2007
Yarn Stash
omg, this makes my piddly 3 gianormous yard bags of yarn, misc baskets and grocery bags of stash look so pitiful!
and that room... makes me realize I need a 'craft cottage' : )
http://mochimochiland.com/weblog/?p=111
Posted by jez at 09:10 AM | Comments (0)
July 24, 2007
Prize Purse
Every summer after the spring round of CLHBX I do a drawing for a goodie stuffed handbag, and this is it for this year. I made it out of some interesting fun fur coupled with size 5 thread and a J hook.
Posted by jez at 08:35 AM | Comments (0)
July 15, 2007
Prize Doily
I really enjoyed this little thing. It turned out smaller than I thought it would, but it's really darling. I got the pattern from 99 Little Doilies, which is a great book full of neat, smaller doilies, which are perfect for CLDX. And besides, I like anything with a spider stitch in it... : )
Posted by jez at 05:18 PM | Comments (0)
July 11, 2007
July's Dishcloth
Here's my dishcloth for the CLDCX2. I used 'Diamonds and Bars' from 200 Crochet Blocks. It was fun to make. : )
Posted by jez at 07:56 PM | Comments (0)
July 08, 2007
June Dishcloth
boy, i sat on my laurels this month, but did get it done. this is my dishcloth for CLDCX2. i chose a nice sampler square from 200 Crochet Blocks (of course =P ) called Shells n Lace. I thought it turned out pretty nice!
Posted by jez at 01:48 PM | Comments (0)
June 28, 2007
Pastel Squares
here's my squares for the June round of CLGSX... I enjoyed working with pastels for a change!
Posted by jez at 08:15 AM | Comments (0)
May 30, 2007
Pouch for Me
Made this little thing over the weekend. I originally was going to put my gum and lipbalm in it, but decided it was a great little pouch for storing my ipod goodies. I used this lovely eyelash yarn I got from one of my Secret Crochet Pals and a strand of dark blue size 5 thread to make it easier to work with. I really like how the colors striped up.
Cool, huh?
Posted by jez at 06:03 PM | Comments (0)
May 21, 2007
Dishcloth for Tina
Here's my softee pinky dishcloth scrubbie for Tina. I used Bernats Baby Cotton, which does make for a soft scrubbie. I'll give ya a nickel if you can guess where i got the square pattern from...
Posted by jez at 07:21 PM | Comments (0)
May 20, 2007
Glove Purse
This is the Glove Purse from Old-Time Crochet Made Easy. Originally, this little purse was made with a size 50 thread and was teeny enough to tuck into a glove to hold 'Mad Money' in case you needed to find alternate transportation home from a date. The pattern in the book calls for size 10 thread and a size 7 hook, but I used a size 5 thread and a B hook, planning to use it for all the change and loose dollar bills that end up floating around in my purse. I also put a snap on the purse instead of the ball and chain closure, which attaches to the flap and runs through the center of the first rounds. I figured the ball and chain would drive me nuts, so snap it became. I'm really pleased with how this one turned out. : )
Posted by jez at 08:19 PM | Comments (0)
May 18, 2007
Karen's Squares
Squares, squares, everywhere there's squares... *lol* Squares are fun to make, and here's two examples of super fun squares from, yup, you guessed it, my favorite square book, 200 Crochet Blocks.
Posted by jez at 09:11 PM | Comments (0)
May 15, 2007
Purse for Baby Lili
Made this purse this past weekend for Baby Lili, or just 'Baby' to her family. Her bday party is this weekend, and Eliz told me last time we were down there that she just loves purses. I thought she'd enjoy a pink one with purple fun fur. Turned out pretty cute!
purses are fun!
Posted by jez at 02:05 PM | Comments (3)
May 13, 2007
Mine!
Made this purse a few weeks ago... just now getting around to taking a pic of it. I originally made it for this year's summer drawing for my handbag swap, but before I was halfway done I knew I was gonna want it for my own. So... it's mine, mine I say! *lol*
I used some lovely tan Chenille Thick n Quick that Carole sent to me for Secret Crochet Pals, and my new Vermont Woodworks Rosewood G hook. I chained the width I wanted the purse, hdc across one loop of the chain, hdc across the second loop, and then built spiral style till I got the length desired. Then a flap, then the strap, then a fancy pants button.
Pretty sweet, eh?
Posted by jez at 11:40 AM | Comments (0)
May 06, 2007
Pouch for Leslie
Every month (except November and December) CL does a 24 Crochet A Thon (CAT), where we chat on IRC for 24 straight hours about all kinds of crochet and non crochet things. Each hour someone wins a CAT PAC of a few crochet related goodies. This month's CAT PAC theme was crochet aids, and who doesnt need a cool pouch for hooks or something else? So I made up a small, quickie pouch for Leslie.
I did my typcial pouch pattern,
ch 4 form ring
hdc 10 in ring
hdc 2 in each stitch
hdc spiral style till desired length
hdc halfway across, turn
hdc across, turn
dec, hdc across to last 2 stitches, dec, repeat till point reached, creating a triangular flap, end off
join at edge of flap, sk stitch, shell, sc, shell, repeat to point, create a chain loop to fit chosen button, repeat on opposite side, end off
sew on a button, and you're good to go!
Posted by jez at 02:15 PM | Comments (0)
April 25, 2007
Popcorn Dishcloth
So I was on a popcorn stitch kick lately, and made two variations of popcorn squares for my square swap partner this month. I did the same sort of thing for my dishcloth for CLDCX2, combining the 2 squares. Turned out kinda cool, eh?
Posted by jez at 07:24 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
April 23, 2007
Popcorn Squares
Here's my squares for the first round in April of the CLGSX. I got both patterns from 200 Crochet Blocks, which is *still* my favorite square book and is *still* on my list of books to review. These are the popcorn flower square and the popcorn square; yes, I felt like doing some popcorn stitches. And just you wait till you see the popcorn dishcloth coming up next.... *lol*
Posted by jez at 08:35 PM | Comments (0)
April 18, 2007
Thread Coasters
I did these 2 thread coasters for the last round of the CL Doily & Coaster exchange, and I'm so pleased with how they turned out! These are only the 2nd coasters I've ever made, and I'm pleased! I got the pattern from the Pattern a Day calendar, kinda modifying it a bit so they would be 4 inches in diameter in order to meet the exchange guidelines.
We're gearing up for round 2, and I'm planning a special surprise drawing for one lucky winner!!!! If you like thread, you should join today! Get yer thread on! : )
Posted by jez at 07:12 PM | Comments (0)
April 17, 2007
Incredible Hooks!!!
while chatting with three of my great online friends from Secret Crochet Pals, Carole shared a link to Vermont Woodwork. Their hooks are *lovely* and I could not help but buy 2 of them. I got a size G in african rosewood and a size H in a pressed indigo. Arent they stunning!
These hooks are amazing! They glide seamlessly through yarn and are a delight to hold. As you can see, they're plenty beautiful, but practical, sturdy, and well made, too. Of course I had to begin 2 new projects just for these hooks; a fun fur/thread handbag with the H and a chenille handbag with the G.
I am totally impressed with the excellent customer service offered by Vermont Woodwork; they immediately responded to my emails, answered all my questions, and kept me posted on the progress of my order. The hooks were custom made for me to the size I chose (my favs, G and H), and the creator offered to design the handles if I had any preferences. Overall, my shopping experience was par none, the service was outstanding, and the shipping was honest and very fast. I highly recommend this seller and these hooks!!!!!
Posted by jez at 02:48 PM | Comments (0)
March 24, 2007
Squares for Deanna
Made these squares for the march round of CLGSX, both are from 200 Crochet Blocks, which is my current favorite square book. One of these days I'll review it. Anyways, here's my squares. : )
Posted by jez at 10:51 AM | Comments (0)
March 22, 2007
Pouches for Judy
When I saw that my partner for this round of the CLHBX liked pouches, I was in heaven! I'm a pouch fanatic and love to make them. So... here's my pouches. : )
The purple one was built spiral style in a hdc, a simple flower around a ring for the button closure, and the other was a shell stitch. I'm in love with the shell stitch one!!!
Posted by jez at 10:29 AM | Comments (0)
February 27, 2007
Squares for Ann
more squares for the CLGSX exchange... i got both patterns from my current favorite book... 200 Crochet Blocks
Posted by jez at 02:04 PM | Comments (0)
February 25, 2007
Hat n Scarf for Tina
Made this hat and scarf set for my secret pal this go-around. I kinda made it up as I went along, and I'm pretty pleased with how it turned out. It's super soft n fuzzy and I'll bet really warm.
Posted by jez at 12:39 PM | Comments (1)
February 20, 2007
Karen's Dishcloth
made this smashing dishcloth for this month's exchange on CLDCX2. i really enjoyed it and i think it turned out really pretty. i've been looking for the pattern, but i printed it up ages ago and i cant find the url...
Posted by jez at 08:34 PM | Comments (0)
February 18, 2007
Big Square for Arlene
made this square for my CLBSX swap - this was fun! it was the butterfly garden square from Chris Simon's site. it was way fun to make and turned out pretty good!
Posted by jez at 08:16 PM | Comments (3)
January 30, 2007
Secret Pal Stuff
sent off my first puffy for this go-around of Secret Crochet Pals. my pal knows who I am, so I'm posting these pics as I'm pretty durned proud of how these projects turned out.
First, the bookmark
i made this using one of my favorite motifs, which I've used with thread, yarn, embroidery floss, ribbon... you name it. it's a great motif for any project; join them for scarves, ponchos, shawls, skirts, blankets, or use them on their own as a decorative piece.
the pattern is as follows:
ch 6, form ring
sc, ch3, sc 12 times, 12 loops made
sc. ch3, sc 12 times, 12 loops made
sc, ch6, sc, ch3 12 times, 12 loops made, 6 large 6 small
sc in ch3 loop, 6 dc ch2 6 dc in ch 6 loop around, 6 petals made
if you join the motifs, simply interlock the motifs at the ch 2 space between the dc stitches.
The Hook Holder
omg, I am sooo impressed with myself here! I love this thing and plan to make one myself. I used a steel hook size 00 and size 10 thread.
this is a simple pattern, too.
ch 4, form ring
10 sc in ring
2 sc in each sc, 20 sc
sc in sc, 2 sc in sc, 30 sc
do not join
build spiral style in hdc until pouch is the length you desire
for the flap, hdc across halfway, turn
hdc across, turn
hdc dec, hdc, hdc dec in last 2 stitches, turn, repeat until triangular flap is made, fasten off
for edging, join w/ sl st at the edge of the flap
sc, ch 3, sc to tip
sc, ch sc in tip
sc, ch sc to end (matching the loops you created on the other side. make sure it's an even number), turn
sc, hdc, dc, picot, dc, hdc, sc in loop
sc in next loop
repeat, placing sc, hdc, dc, picot, dc, hdc, sc in loop on tip
sew on a button and you're done!
Posted by jez at 10:31 AM | Comments (2)
January 23, 2007
Potholder for Skip
i really enjoyed this one. i'm again perusing 200 Crochet Blocks, which has quickly become one of my favorite library books, and i decided to make up a potholder by doing a pretty granny square with a dc sampler crocheted together. i used the Seville Square, and i think this one turned out really pretty!
Posted by jez at 10:38 PM | Comments (0)
January 15, 2007
Catchin' Up
been busy... work was crazy with stuff after xmas break, and then i've had a pretty nasty cold distrubuted by some beloved member of the household. but, today is a rare luxury - Lila is with the Luceros and Daniel is working. yup, i have a day of quiet all to myself. : ) and Daniel was soooo quiet this morning, i slept till 10. wow!
so i'm tired of Pogo for the time being and relatively caught up on my crochet and email, so i think i'll catch up on post i've been meaning to do.
of course i crocheted gifts for the family. : ) I made Gramma a nice lap 'ghan/shawl out of Bernat's Galaxy, in Saturn. It was hateful yarn to crochet with as it got all tangled up in its gobs of fiber that makes it nubby boulce. but, the shawl turned out pretty nice and very warm.
I made a plain hat n scarf set for my Dad out of TCL Amore in Navy, and a doily for Mom. I was just kinda messing around with pineapples, and the doily started to bowl, so I ran with it. it would be perfect for holding potpouri or under a bowl or vase, and i think it turned out pretty cool.
we also took a marvelous trip to Salt Lake to visit with the fam; everyone was there as Gramma, Dad, and StepMom drove up from Albuquerque. it's cold there and Lila needed a hat and scarf. I whipped one up in record time on xmas day out of Moda Dea Wild in Hot Tamale and Aunt Lydia's size 10 cotton in Red. It's a very interesting combination and made for a sturdy, warm, and heavy combination. We've already lost the hat (dammit!), but i'm hoping it will turn up at Mom's somewhere. Turned out really cute, though, and Lila was so excited to open it.
we all had a great time hanging out with the fam and Lila really came out of her shell. : )
Before:
After:
Posted by jez at 01:43 PM | Comments (0)
January 08, 2007
Fun Fur - Not!
K, so I'm a laggart at this Fun Fur stuff. So I decided to make a purse for my Secret Crochet Pal in her favorite color, and edge it in fun fur, just to try it out. It does look fun, huh? The purse is okay... I made the body a shell pattern and lined it with this cool purple and black paisley pattern, which went along quite nicely, but I definitely have to say that fun fur is, um, Un Fun Fur. I had no problem finding the stitches and keeping the actual cord on the hook, but I found that the junk had a tendency to tangle in itself, making it hard to pull up loops. And let's not talk about the whole 'weaving in ends' business.
Oh, and see that glob of fun fur down on the purse's corner? That was my attempt to make a flower. Fun fur apparently doesn't care if you sc, dc, hdc, or trc, it all looks like one gianormous, tangled lump.
will I give up on fun fur? probably not. it does *look* fun. but i'll probably couple it with thread or yarn next time. Lila needs a hat. a fun hat...
Posted by jez at 01:46 PM | Comments (0)
January 02, 2007
Slippers for Wendy
I dont normally do New Year Resolutions, falling into the school of thought that self improvement should occur year round, not just once. But this year, I did make one - to finish up my abandoned WIPs. I've oodles of them... afghans, tops, shawls, doilies, motifs, you name it, all cluttering up my stash and WIPs basket. Off to a good start; on our drive to Salt Lake I finished these slippers I started like, 2 years ago. I gave them to my good friend, Wendy, who not only loaned me her excellent camera for our trip but also fed my kitties.
I used some Jiffy yarn for these; I made the soles years ago, and didnt like the way the tops worked up, so I frogged and left them in a bag at the bottom of my WIPs basket. I just did rows of dc decreasing along the toe line, finished with a row of sc, and then ran a length of ch stitches for a tie. They turned out cute!
Posted by jez at 12:28 PM | Comments (2)
November 08, 2006
Donnie's Dishcloth
Love this one! I chose this pattern and I found it fun and easy to make. Plus, it works up lovely, doesn't it?
Posted by jez at 01:35 PM | Comments (0)
November 07, 2006
Joan's Squares
These turned out cool! Well, except that my camera made the red color a brilliant fuchia pink. I should take some time to learn how to take pictures. Of course that's assuming this is user error, and not the cheap camera I chose...
Anyways, this is the Moon Square from Patty's site. The link is a google search - click on the first link for Patty's site and then find the Moon Square pattern. It was fun and easy to make, and of course I made a few for the Dafghan. : )
Posted by jez at 02:42 PM | Comments (0)
October 21, 2006
Anna's Knot Doily
I really like Anna, and I do believe that if we lived closer we'd be joined at the hip. So, I wanted to make her something special for the next puffy that goes off her way. So, I found this.
We're both Witches, and the Celtic knotwork in the center is significant to us in that it illustrates how all life is interconnected. There is no end, no beginning, everything is one cycle and interwoven.
The doily is the Double Triquetra Square from Crochet with Bits and Pieces. It was pretty easy to make, once I figured out the whole cord making thingie.
Posted by jez at 04:30 PM | Comments (0)
Anna's October Squares
I got Anna U again on my Happy Hookers group for the granny square and sampler square exchange. Here's my squares. : ) For the sampler I did the bridge stitch from the Complete Book of Crochet Stitch Designs. It's alright... I found the stitch easy to do but frustrating because if flops around a lot and is kinda big. It would probably look better in thread, and I think I'll monkey around with it and use doubles instead of trebles to see how it looks. The square is the French Square from The Crochet Stitch Bible. It was a fun square to make, and I made a few for the 'Dafghan' (Daniel's 'ghan), too. For Anna's, I added 2 rows of dc in order to get it 7 inches to match the sampler square.
Posted by jez at 04:28 PM | Comments (0)
October 14, 2006
Danielle's Squares
Here's my squares for the second half of the September CLGSX. I love this varigated... it's so pretty.
poor things too forever to get to Canada, but they finally did. : )
Posted by jez at 07:47 PM | Comments (0)
October 04, 2006
My Scarf for Breast Cancer Awareness
I finished my scarf for the Breast Cancer Awareness drive that they're doing at work. I wanted to do 2, but ended up only doing one. Gramma came to visit, and we had other company, too, so we were pretty stacked up. Plus, I decided that I wanted to make something special for my swap partner I have for this go-around on Happy Hookers. I have Anna again, and she and I are so alike that I am convinced we'd be joined at the hip if we lived closer. So... i'm working on a special goodie for her.
but i digress... here's my scarf. : ) I did the blue star square pattern from Granny Squares, Nanny Squares, which works up quick and is fun to make. I do modify it by taking a total of 8 stitches out of round one as i find it fits better.
Posted by jez at 07:45 AM | Comments (0)
September 20, 2006
Christin's Purse
Finally got around to finishing Christin's purse for the CL Handbag Swap. *lol* The purse has been done for a few weeks now, but I wanted to experiment with a lining, and getting off my butt and doing that is what has put me behind. I'm the coordinator for the swap, and the last to actually send. Ugh, I'm embarrassed of myself.
Anyways, it's done, and going into the mail today (although I'll post this after she recieves, as to not spoil her surprise, should she look at my blog beforehand!).
I'm pleased with it, for the most part. The purse body is my standard pattern; chain the width, hdc in front loops around the chain, turn, and hdc in the back loops, then build spiral style till the desired size is reached. I then sort of made up the flap. I originally wanted to do a pineapple style flap, but was stumped at finding a good pattern for a flat edge (found plenty in the round) and got frustrated trying to graph out my own pattern, so I just kinda winged it.
The lining turned out okay, but I think i'll make the next one a bit larger next time. I found this one a wee bit tight. I used snaps inside to close the purse; I'll ask Christin to keep me posted on how the silly thing wears.
Posted by jez at 09:10 AM | Comments (0)
September 15, 2006
Theresa's Potholder
Finished my potholder for the CL potholder swap last night.
This one was fun! I made the pattern up, mostly, based on a trivet pattern from Crochet with Bits and Pieces. I've wanted to come up with a star shaped potholder pattern, and this one is okay. I think I'll monkey around with the pattern a bit more to see if I can't improve on this one. It is a wee bit on the small side, I think, but okay.
Posted by jez at 07:18 AM | Comments (0)
September 13, 2006
Cheryl's Dishcloth
Finished up my dishcloth for the September CL dishcloth exchange. I haven't done a ripple in a long time, so I thought I'd do a quickie one for this dishcloth. I'm pleased with it! The one thing I don't like is that the initial foundation chain was a wee bit tighter than the rest of my gauge. I'm stumped - I've not had that problem since I was very young as my gauge is much more consistent these days, so for future ripples I'll use a hook one size larger and see if that makes a difference. Right now we're doing a drive for pink scarves for breast cancer awareness at work, so I'll try a ripple scarf and see if that solves my ripple problem. : )
Posted by jez at 02:57 PM | Comments (0)
September 07, 2006
Janice's Squares
Finished up my granny swap squares for CL last night. I did the same square that I did for Alisa last time, but this time I did it in contrasting colors. You can see the flowery trebles much better this way. I also did another square from Granny Squares Nanny Squares, called the Blue Star Square (although I did it in a yellow). I did end up modifying the pattern a bit, taking a total of 8 stitches out of round one in order to get it to fit into six inches.
Posted by jez at 02:17 PM | Comments (0)
September 04, 2006
Toys for Izzy's Toy Chest
August's Crochet List charity challenge featured Izzy's Toy Chest, a charity that gives toys to hospitalized children. I made two of my family's crochet bunnies. Both my sister and I had these bunnies as children and loved them; Lila has some, and lots of little ones in my social circle have them, too. This is a special pattern; my maternal Grandma made these for all the kids so we are fond of them.
I *believe* my Grandma created this pattern, but I'm not sure. If you have any info on this pattern, I'd love to hear from you.
Posted by jez at 10:10 AM | Comments (2)
August 20, 2006
Anna's Swap Squares
these were fun to do! this is my first exchange on the Happy Hookers group. I got Anna for both the sampler square and the granny square exchanges, so lucky me i get to only go to the post office once. : )
for Anna's granny, i did one of my favorites, called Thetys's Sqauare (i wont link to it because the site is fraught with horrible pop ups. try a google search instead.) the sampler was equally cool, as it's the first sampler i've ever done! i dug out one of my stitch books and chose something i've always wanted to do - the spider stitch. Fun! think i'll make a shrug out of it. : ) anyways, i'm going to like the sampler square exchange!
Posted by jez at 05:05 PM | Comments (0)
Alisa's Squares for August
finished my squares for the first exchange round on CLGSX. i got Alisa again, who is doing a safari theme afghan for her daughter. the green square is from a Year of Afghans leaflet. I modified it a bit and decided that the flowery treble stitch rounds get lost without a contrast color. the tan is called the butterfly square, and is from the Granny Squares Nanny Squares book. it took a few tries and froggings, but i finished one for Daniel's 'ghan and perfected it for Alisa. it's an elaborate pattern and i think it is very pretty.
Posted by jez at 04:59 PM | Comments (0)
August 19, 2006
Granny Squares Nanny Squares
checked out Granny Squares Nanny Squares from the Alameda County Library through the shared borrowing we have at work, and it's a keeper!
although the book's title claims, "New Twists for Classic Crochet," I didn't find the patterns to be that innnovative and new. not to say that they weren't good, mind you, i just didn't find them different enough to consider them new twists. however, the book does feature quite a few nice patterns that are reminicient of days of old, and i found myself picking up yarn and hook to stitch a pattern or two here and there. beware, though, by and large these patterns are not for the faint of heart! they are detailed and tend to be a bit on the complicated side, but if you like a good challenge, dig in. of the few things i stitched and the many i studied, the patterns in this book work up nicely.
in addition to the lovely patterns, the book has detailed, crisp and clear photographs, diagrams and images, and the large text is easy to read. although a strong attention to detail is suggested, as long as you follow stitch by stitch you will be able to create these patterns. they are well described in the items i stitched up.
this is a lovely book and contains old tyme patterns featured in today's modern example of a well printed book. if you like old fashioned patterns, definitely add this book to your collection!
Posted by jez at 07:13 PM | Comments (0)
August 18, 2006
August Dishcloth
Wow, I am really pleased how this one turned out!!! I really love the yellow color; it's bright and cheery, and particularly lovely in this corrected version of PFH's square. I edged it with sc, ch 3 (ch 6 over the corners), skip 2 stitches, sc, then a round of hdc, 2dc, hdc, with hdc, 4dc, hdc in the corners.
i tell ya, when that square is done right, it's really kinda fun, and super quick. : )
Posted by jez at 07:20 AM | Comments (0)
July 20, 2006
Swim Top
I hate swimsuits. They never feel comfortable, the fabric is itchy, and the damn elastic is always in places where no elastic should go. I had to replace my busted strap swimsuit from the last, like, five years this summer, so I went to Target. I got a lovely burgundy top and nice black skirt, but the hateful top kept rolling up over my waist because I have a figure. So... why not crochet a top?
Initially I wanted a cotton top, but after querying around on the 'net I read a good point - cotton was gonna get heavy and droop. I changed my mind and got a couple skeins of Caron's Simply Soft in a dark blue.
It totally rocks!!! I based the top off a variety of online patterns, modifying the cups to fit me. I crocheted them together with a chain, which I then single stitched in, with a row of dc ch 2 dc to hold the tie. I also added a smaller tie on the cups by sc along the cup to 5 stitches from the bottom, chaining, and sc in the chain. Off the bottom, I did a modification of an edging from a book I got from the library.
The edging was labor intensive, involving sc, picots, chaining, joining, turning, more sc and picots. I modified it by leaving out the picots for the majority of it, except for the first and last row.
I'm totally pleased with it and I think I might make a few more quickie tops (with a different edging!!!) for pjs. Oh, and I'm totally planning swim shorts to replace that hateful skirt that tries to fall off.
Posted by jez at 07:50 AM | Comments (2)
June 28, 2006
June's Squares
I'm so behind with my posts... here's my squares for June's CL Granny Square exchange. : )
Below are from the first round of swaps, and the one with the interlocking rings has special significance. I married my beloved on May 13th, and I wanted to make something to commemorate the event. I'm currently making him a 'ghan with my 6 inch squares for this swap, so it was natural for me to make a square. The red ring signifies Daniel, and the blue one signifies me. I made 2 - one for Daniel's afghan and one for my first exchange partner after we married.
These 2 below are from the second exchange round for June, both of which are linked from Martha's site here. They're the Pluto square and Haze square respectively. I hate the Pluto square, btw. The pattern just didn't make any sense, but I think I did a pretty good job of muddling right along.
Is it me, or does everyone get vertigo when viewing overhead pics of my squares??? *lol*
Posted by jez at 07:17 PM | Comments (0)
Tube Purse
Made this lovely purse for the Spring CL Handbag exchange. My partner is a Mom to 2 young girls, so I was thinking she'd need a bag large enough for stuffage plus dollies, hair clips, flowers, wrappers, books, and anything else a young child can produce that they then expect a parental unit to haul around. I figured a tube style purse would be ideal. I like it... it's super easy and I think I'll make one for myself.
Here's what I did:
Ends - Make 2:
1. ch 6, form ring
2. 10 dc in ring
3. 2 dc in each dc (20 dc)
4. *2 dc in next dc, 1 dc in next dc* around (30 dc)
5. *2 dc in next dc, 1 dc each in next 2 dc* around (40 dc)
Purse body
1. ch desired length, plus 3
2. turn, dc in 3rd ch from hook and across
3. work till peice measures the diameter of your ends
Strap
1. ch desired length of strap, plus 3
2. turn, dc in 3rd ch from hook and across
3. repeat row 2
Assembly
1. stitch or sc ends to purse body
2. stitch strap to ends
3. add closure (button or other) if you like
Posted by jez at 03:30 PM | Comments (1)
A Hooker Poem
this came across the wire this morning, posted to my Happy Hookers yahoo group. yeah, it's true. : )
A Hooker Poem
My wife is a hooker,
Of this she's mighty proud,
And the stories of her exploits,
Are legends in our town.
She's shameless with her talents,
She'll go hooking anywhere,
And if people want to watch her,
She really doesn't care.
It seems to be a family thing,
Her mother taught her how.
Seems her grandma was a hooker,
and my daughter's hooking now.
She goes to Hookers' meetings,
to learn the new techniques.
She starts hooking in a frenzy,
and won't talk to me for weeks.
She doesn't do the housework,
She doesn't make the beds,
No she doesn't have time for that,
She'd rather hook instead.
My wife, she is a hooker,
and I curse that awful day,
when she first picked up the hook and yarn,
and learned how to Crochet!!
Posted by jez at 07:27 AM | Comments (1)
June 12, 2006
June's Dishcloth
while trolling the internet for various n sundry dishcloth patterns, i stumbled across this one and thought it was far too cute not to make at least one.
it is a remarkably simple pattern, and it works up quickly and is fun to make. i think i will make a few more for Lila to use in the tub. : )
Posted by jez at 03:04 PM | Comments (0)
May 24, 2006
Toy for a Tot
made this little cradle purse for a co-worker's daughter, who turns 3 in a few weeks. i've made some of these for my Lila and she loves them!
i made the cradle purse and one little blankie - the little blankie is a filet style square with a heart design, which turned out cuter that i thought. i'll have to make a few more for the CL granny square exchange and for Daniel's 'ghan.
i also changed the handles for the cradle purse; this family has another little one under a year, and if the 3 year old is anything like my Lila, one needs to be quite cautious about things that can be used to tie another thing up. so... instead of the drawstring handles i made quickie handles out of basic single stitches. i made them short so they wouldn't fit around a baby's head, and i actually like the little handles over the drawstring ties. although it doesn't make the purse very tight, i think the little handles will be easier for little hands to grab.
Posted by jez at 08:27 AM | Comments (1)
May 03, 2006
the adventures of 2 washcloths & a potholder
well now, crochet is always a learning journey, isn't it?
a week or so ago i sat down to crochet my april/may potholder for the CL potholder exchange. as i sat looking at my basket o cotton yarn, i decided to use up some of my leftover scraps. i started a five sided potholder alternating between a flat pink and a varigated pink with a planned green border (a watermelon-y theme), but after a few rounds i decided that the work was too open, and even double sided the potholder stood a good chance of letting the user get burned. so, i decided to keep going and make a lovely washcloth out of it. turned out lovely, didn't it?
so back to the drawing board... i still needed a potholder for this months' partner. i began perusing the web, looking for fun patterns to make, and i found a neato one off of Martha's site called the 'happy pot holder' i followed the pattern exactly, and, um... got another great washcloth.
there were a bunch of things i didn't like about the exact pattern. for example, after each round of dc, the pattern reads to do a round of sc without increasing. i think that pulled the circle into a cone shape, at least the way i crochet it did. secondly, the potholder is only one sided, which i think is too thin, and finally, the damn thing is just too big, imho. sooo... i modified. : )
and i'm quite happy with this! here's the pattern to what i did:
make 2
ch 6, join to form loop
20 dc in ring, join w/ sl st
*dc in next dc, 2 dc in next dc* repeat around, join w/ sl st
repeat
*dc in next 2 dc, 2 dc in next dc* repeat around, finish off
join 2 sides with hdc in each dc around. finish off
join 2nd color in any stitch, *3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc, skip next 5 dc* repeat around, join with sl st
sl st across 3dc shell to get to the ch 2 sp
*3dc, ch2, 3dc, ch 1 in ch 2 sp* repeat around, join with a sl st and finish off
join 1st color in any ch 2 sp, *2sc in ch 2 space, sc in next 3 dc, hdc in ch 1 sp (through all rounds of shell), sc in next 3 dc* repeat around and finish off.
if you prefer, from any ch 2 sp, ch 10 to form a loop.
and voila! you now have your very own Jez modified Happy Pot Holder!
Posted by jez at 08:11 AM | Comments (1)
April 23, 2006
April's Granny Squares
i made these squares for my first April 6" granny square exchange; my partner is doing a safari theme. i really like the zebra-y style square, and i'm going to make more. it's an interesting concept, where you work the two colors in rounds without finishing off. instead, you drop the loop, crochet around, and pick up the loop to join with a slip stitch and continue.
the only thing i dont like about the pattern is the odd way the corners go. i think the pattern is supposed to be somewhat diamond shaped within the square, as the pattern consistently stated to start the 3 chain corner in the first chain of the corner below. it warped the square, so i will make a typical 3 chain corner building on the second chain in the corner below for the next square i make. i'll try it out for Daniel's 'ghan.
Posted by jez at 07:39 PM | Comments (0)
April 22, 2006
April's Dishcloth
i'm a member of the CL dishcloth exchange, and this was the dishcloth i sent out this month. i used this pattern, and i really like it! i think i'll make some more for myself. : )
Posted by jez at 03:44 PM | Comments (0)
April 14, 2006
pouches
made these awesome pouches over the last month or so for my hooks n stuff. the green and yellow one holds all my Bates and bamboo hooks, and the purply one holds my stitch holders (which are actually cheep earring hoops), scissors, steel hooks, tapestry needles, and has a pouch on the outside that holds my little round tape measure. there's a plastic pocket protector inside that keeps the steel hooks and scissors from poking thru the yarn (i kid you not - Cambridge Scientific Abstracts, who provides lots of databases for work, sent the pocket protector to me as a promo thingie).
Posted by jez at 07:57 AM | Comments (1)
March 24, 2006
Baby Hats
I love this pattern - http://www.angelscrochet.com/patterns/mountainpat.php
for hats of all sorts and I regularly modify it for different projects depending on what I want. I love to use it with a D or E hook and finger weight yarn. I think it makes lovely baby hats that stay on baby and help to keep little ears warm. I made these two for recent baby gifts; the pink goes to baby Rebeckah who will be born next Wednesday, and the blue went to baby Isaiah, grandson to one of my online friends.
Posted by jez at 10:10 PM | Comments (0)
March 20, 2006
Heartmade Blessings Squares Off Today!
I dropped my two 12" squares for Heartmade Blessings today. I only donated a mere 2, others, many more. So far, the total for this month's charity challenge pledge is 507 squares pledged which equals just over 42 afghans. Pretty darn cool