Southwest Sunburst C2C Crochet Afghan

Kaitlin Cone Crochet August 8, 2017

Ever wanted to try making an afghan but felt it was too large a project to take on? How about crocheting an afghan that’s a smaller size, but with a more interesting design than is usually given in a crochet pattern? If this sounds like a project you want to put in your queue, then say hello to the Southwest Sunburst Corner to Corner Crochet Afghan from One Dog Woof.

Crocheting corner to corner might be a new concept for some, but don’t despair, because One Dog Woof has a tutorial specifically for those who are new to the corner to corner technique. There’s a link available in the pattern and you can try it out before you start on the blanket, whether you want a written tutorial, a step-by-step photo process, or a video to watch.

To make the Southwest Sunburst afghan, you’ll need plenty of yarn – the pattern recommends using Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice or something similar. You can pick whatever colors you like, of course, but the original pattern calls for grey, blue, pink, yellow, and white (about 12 skeins). The recommended crochet hook size is a “J”, though of course this makes larger, looser, stitches. If you prefer a tighter stitch, you might want to consider a smaller hook size. The nice thing about bigger stitches is that it leaves plenty of air in the blanket – instead of being constricting, the larger stitches allow the blanket to breathe.

Whatever hook size you intend to use, you’ll also need the following materials: a stitch marker or safety pin, scissors, a tapestry needle, bobbin holders, and clothespins, though of course the bobbin holders and clothespins are optional. They do make things easier, however.

The stitches required for the afghan are simple (the pattern is categorized as “Easy”): chain (ch), slip stitch (sl st), double crochet (dc), increase (inc) and decrease (dec). The afghan will measure about 3 feet by 4 feet when done, not including the fringe. The fringe is optional, of course, but it’s a fun accessory and easy to add.

Want to make a little side money by crocheting a couple afghans? One Dog Woof has given permission to sell what you’ve made using the pattern as long as you link back to her original blog post. You may, of course, also share the pattern on your social media, using the original blog post link. If you’d like to translate the pattern, you can send a message to One Dog Woof via the website.

If the Southwest Sunburst Corner to Corner Crochet Afghan needs to be in your home, you can whip one up following the instructions, graph, photo tutorial and videos provided by One Dog Woof. If you enjoy this one and want to try another corner to corner pattern, One Dog Woof also has a pattern called the “Zoodiacs Afghan” and another, the “Chevron Baby Blanket”. You can share photos of your finished projects with One Dog Woof via Facebook or Instagram. Make sure to tag your pictures with #1dogwoof. You can also browse through PDF patterns and more from One Dog Woof on Etsy and Craftsy.

648 total views, 37 today

Crochet Amigurumi Eeyore The Donkey (Free Pattern)

Kaitlin Cone Crochet August 8, 2017

“It’s snowing still,” said Eeyore gloomily. “So it is.” “And freezing.” “Is it?” “Yes,” said Eeyore, “however,” he said brightening, “we haven’t had an earthquake lately.”

-A.A. Milne

What would the Winnie the Pooh stories be without the melancholy and irony of Eeyore? Despite his gloomy outlook, his loyalty and kindness have won over thousands of hearts throughout the years. Who wouldn’t want him as a companion?

Well, now you can have your own Eeyore with the free Eeyore crochet pattern from aphid777 and Skestes on DeviantArt. There are plenty of pictures from aphid777 if you want to figure it out yourself, but Skestes took up the challenge and figured out a pattern that the rest of us can follow.

Before you begin you’ll need to collect a few materials: yarn (in blue, black, and tan), eyes (buttons could also be used), felt (purple, pink), faux fur (black), black embroidery thread, a tapestry needle, and scissors. The pink felt is for the insides of the ears, and the purple felt goes on Eeyore’s tummy. Of course, the felt is optional and does not need to be added. You could also use pink or purple yarn to create the same effect. Also, Eeyore’s tail and mane do not have to be made with faux fur, they can be made with black yarn. And you can keep or lose the button that joins Eeyore’s tail to his body, as well as the bow that adorns it (whether you crochet the bow or use a ribbon is up to you).

If you’ve never done amigurumi before, it can be a bit fussy and tedious. There are several parts crocheted separately and then they will be joined together. If this intimidates you, sometimes watching tutorials online can help when you see the pieces coming together, or starting on something smaller before you attempt a bigger project can ease you into it.

The trick with amigurumi is to go slowly, concentrating on one piece at a time. It’s easier to focus on one part than to look at the whole. It’s easy to get overwhelmed but the payoff is well worth it if you can stick it out. Once you’ve done something small it gets easier and you can go onto more complicated things (like dragons!).

You’ll also need to be familiar with the following stitches:  the magic ring (if you haven’t done a magic ring before, there are several video tutorials available on YouTube that can help get you started), single crochet (sc), increase (inc), decrease (dec), and turn work (TW).

If you’re not sure how to increase or decrease, it’s worth your time to look up some photo or video tutorials because these are common enough stitches that they will be in dozens of patterns that you may want to try out after learning these techniques (Also remember to turn your work and keep track of which side is which).

If this project intrigues you and you want to work on bringing your own Eeyore to life, you can find the inspiration photos at aphid777’s DeviantArt page, and you can find the fully written, free pattern on Skestes‘ DeviantArt account.

 

258 total views, 29 today

Crochet Willow Square Blanket

Kaitlin Cone Crochet August 8, 2017

If you’ve ever made a blanket before, you know how intimidating it can seem. You also know how big the payoff is when you finish that last stitch and spread out the blanket to see it all together. Folding it up and putting it in someone’s arms as a gift is one of the most gratifying feelings in the world. A lot of love goes into a blanket, and many times, those blankets become comfort objects for the receiver. To that end, if you’re curious about blankets and are thinking of trying one out for yourself but don’t want to get caught in a boring crochet loop, not to worry – the Willow Square Blanket is the perfect fit for you.

Kirsteen’s blog “Life In My Houseful of Boys” details her account of the blanket-making process. She chose a square design (resembling a granny square) from the book “200 Crochet Blocks” and then joined them together with single crochet. Then she chose a border from the book “Around the Corner” to finish the blanket off. The finished Queen-size blanket was crocheted using DK Stylecraft Special, using the colors “Storm Blue”, “Duck Egg”, “Silver”, and “Sherbet”.

When planning blankets like these, with multiple colors, it is useful to have an online generator to get an idea of the big picture before starting on the project. If you want to try out the granny square generator that Kirsteen used to put together the Willow Square Blanket, you can visit it at granny-squares-color.com and plug in your own color combinations. Try using colors that coordinate with the room it will spend most of its time in, or if you’re making a picnic blanket, try combining the family’s favorite colors. Whichever colors you choose, the blanket pattern and color choices will be beautiful.

If you want to be organized with this project and resist getting overwhelmed by it, you can do what Kirsteen did and make each row of squares separately, then bundle up each row so it’s ready to go when it’s time to join the blanket together. With just a little time spent on organizing, it will be less of a headache to make your own Willow Crochet Blanket. You can also put separate rows in Ziploc bags, and take one bag at a time with you when you’re running errands. When you have a little time, pull out the squares and start joining (just make sure you have scissors and extra yarn with you).

Joining the squares together will create a smooth finish on one side, and a raised seam on the other. You can choose which side to display, but either side is fine. And don’t feel like you have to crochet an edge for the blanket either. You can leave it as is, you can make a simple edge, or you can go as fancy as you like with picot, shells, or your favorite crochet stitch. The Willow Square Blanket is easily customized and makes for a great gift for family members and friends.

If you’d like to look at pictures for inspiration before you get started on the Willow Square Blanket, you can do so at Kirsteen’s site. You can purchase both the books she mentions (there’s a link on the page), or see if they’re available at your local library.

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Urban Gypsy Boho Bag – Free Crochet Pattern

Kaitlin Cone Crochet August 8, 2017

Have a Boho beauty in your life? Are you, yourself a Bohemian? Then how about show that side of you off with this free crochet pattern for an Urban Gypsy Boho Bag? The Make & Do Crew provides this pattern free of charge, or – if you’d rather have a printable PDF without the ads – you can purchase the seven page pattern with accompanying step-by-step photos for a small fee. This is the perfect bag for the summer, whether you’re attending a music night at the park, going on a road trip to a boho mecca, or simply shopping at the local farmer’s market.

The Urban Gypsy Boho Bag is just one of a collection of patterns from the Make & Do Crew inspired by the 1970’s hippie generation. It features granny squares as well as plenty of fringe accents. You can crochet a strap for the bag if you wish, but if you want to go full-on retro, you can attach a vintage belt instead (there are instructions for both so pick your favorite) If you want an accompanying accessory or clothing item for the bag, you can try their other patterns, like the crochet moccasins, the hooded cowl, DIY boots, and cardigan. There are links to each of these patterns on the bag pattern page.

To make your own boho bag, you’ll need the following materials:

• 5 skeins of yarn (the pattern calls for Lion Brand Kitchen Cotton in “Vanilla”)
• Size “K” crochet hook
• Tapestry needle
• Scissors
• 30″ x 24″ piece of muslin fabric (optional for the inside of the bag)
• Sewing needle and thread to match muslin fabric (again, this is optional)
• Toggle button
• Leather belt or strap (optional)
• D-rings and rivets (optional – these are for use with the leather belt or strap)

While gauge is not as important in this particular project, if you want to make sure you’re staying within the pattern’s parameters, each square should measure 8.5 inches. There are also some stitches you should be familiar with in order to complete this project: magic ring, single crochet (sc), skip (sk), slip stitch (sl st), chain (ch), double crochet (dc), right side (RS), treble crochet (tr), space (sp). There are also a few special stitches: two double crochet cluster (2DcCl), three double crochet cluster (3DcCl), and four double crochet cluster (4DcCl), all of which are explained in the pattern. The bag is crocheted by holding two strands of yarn together at a time, and the pattern is basically two squares and two triangles worked together with the later inclusion of a strap and plenty of fringe.

Most of these should be known to beginner crocheters, which means this pattern is a good fit for most everyone. It might be a new challenge for those who have not made granny squares in the past, but it won’t be so difficult that it can’t be mastered.

If you would like to add this Urban Gypsy Boho Bag to your collection, you can find the list of materials, pattern notes, complete pattern, and photo tutorial for free at the Make & Do Crew’s website. Be sure and sign up to receive their weekly newsletter – it comes with free patterns.

1841 total views, 33 today

Crochet Block Blanket (Free Tutorial)

Kaitlin Cone Crochet August 8, 2017

Whether you’ve never done a blanket before or you’ve done so many you’re looking for a new challenge, there’s one blanket you need to try: the 3-D block blanket. It’s a fun project whether you’re an artsy person, a math whiz, or both. With just three colors, a crochet hook, a tapestry needle and a pair of scissors, you can make your own unique, interesting blanket to show off your skills. When you cozy up in your cuddly new blanket, you can be proud of your new ability.

The video tutorial is available on YouTube in both English and Spanish (there are two different videos so make sure you pick the right one for you), walking you through each step clearly and concisely. The pattern calls for three colors (the original uses navy, light blue and white but you can mix it up and use primary colors, pastel colors, or an ombre effect if you’d prefer) and there are a variety of yarns you can use for this project, but make sure it isn’t scratchy.

Feel a hankering to try this 3-D blanket for yourself? You can do so by watching the Crochet Diamond Blanket Tutorial with Lanas Y Ovillos on YouTube – the video tutorial is only thirteen minutes long, and once you’ve mastered that, you can find other patterns on the channel for a myriad of crochet projects. Be sure and subscribe so that you never miss a video – they release new videos every Tuesday. There are plenty of projects to suit everyone, including clothes, amigurumi, kitchen accessories, and household items.

Here’s a gallery of what this looks like when you’re working on it and when its done.

206 total views, 15 today

Granny Flower Square (Free Pattern)

Kaitlin Cone Crochet August 8, 2017

Are you one of those people who feel like you belong in another decade? Do you pine after the 1960’s and 1970’s styles that can’t be found except in vintage stores nowadays? If you’re one of the hippies or boho babes that would like to throw some older influences into your interior design, then you might want to take a look at this Granny Flower Square blanket from ByHaafner. Depending on which colors you choose, you can go completely retro with shades of brown, yellow, and orange, or you can take it even further back and do a 1960’s inspired blue, yellow, and green. Whichever colors you choose, it doesn’t take much, so this is a great project if you have a bunch of small skeins in your stash.

There are some pattern notes on this square and it would behoove you to read them over and make sure you understand before beginning. Planning out or experimenting beforehand can save a lot of time (and a headache) later. The specific notes are about beginning rounds (either chain two or make a double crochet, though the author does indicate that the chain two option is her preferred method) and joining (the pattern calls for a blunt needle in order to do this, or you can do a slip stitch, though the author writes that joining by needle is her go-to tactic).

To make a blanket out of Granny Flower Squares, you’ll need to measure out the surface you wish to cover (whether it’s used as a rug, blanket, or picnic surface) and do some simple math to figure it out. Each square is 4 x4 inches, and the original blanket is 285 squares total. Depending on the type of yarn you use (the pattern does not specify so this is up to you), you’ll need a corresponding hook. The hook used in the pattern was a 4mm size, so worsted weight yarn is a likely candidate.

After you’ve done the math, gathered your materials, and read over the instructions, you will be using the following stitches to make your Granny Flower Square: magic ring, slip stitch (sl st), chain (ch), double crochet (dc), space (sp), and treble crochet (tr). Most of these stitches are, of course, in a beginner’s repertoire, so this square should be easy for advanced crocheters and a good challenge for beginners. Joining the squares (should you choose to make more than one) simply requires a join-as-you-go stitch.

While there are written instructions for the Granny Flower Square, there is also a chart that illustrates which stitches go where. If you’ve never followed a chart (or seen one – I’ve mostly seen them used overseas), you may want to go through and figure out what each symbol stands for before you begin the project. You can, of course, share this pattern, but be sure and provide a link to the original so that the owner gets credit for her beautiful work.

If the Granny Flower Square looks like it might be your next project, you can find the written tutorial as well as the stitch chart at ByHaafner’s website. Groovy, baby.

789 total views, 25 today

Lacy Crochet Boots Pattern For Adults (Made with Flip Flops!)

Kaitlin Cone Crochet August 8, 2017

Don’t know which shoes to wear to that music festival? Want to wear something that’s more comfortable than a pair of sweaty socks and some old sneakers? How about these bohemian, gladiator sandal inspired lacy crochet boots? You can even re-use last year’s flip-flops and turn this into a green DIY recycling project – only this one will turn out cute.

The Make & Do Crew free pattern is available on their site, but if you’d prefer to look over an ad-free, printable PDF with a photo tutorial, you can purchase it from the website for a small fee. The bonus to buying the PDF is that it comes with a ruler to ensure you get just the right fit when sizing your flip-flops and crocheting the boots. Whichever pattern route you choose to go, you’ll have the makings of an adorable pair of crochet boots your friends and family will love. You may even have to make your sister, friend, mom, or aunt a pair!

If you make yourself a pair of these lacy crocheted boots with flip-flop soles, you might want to check out the other flip-flop sole shoe patterns available from the Make & Do Crew – there are plenty of options to choose from, including the Cabin Boots, Moccasins, Breckenridge Boots, and Lightweight Slippers. You can also sign up for the Make & Do Crew newsletter, which arrives in your inbox each week with free patterns, tips, and tricks for all your crochet needs.

While the lacy crochet boots are made for womens’ sizes 5-10, you can make larger sizes by adding additional rows to the boot foot base (there are instructions in the pattern). If you want to sell these, you can do so with permission from the author, but be sure and link back to the original post. You may not, of course, sell or distribute this pattern as your own. Always be sure to link back to the original source when sharing.

To make your lacy crochet boots, you’ll need to gather the following materials:

• 4 skeins of cotton yarn (the pattern recommends using Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton in “Ecru”)
• Tapestry needle
• Size “B” and “H” crochet hooks
• Ruler
• Tape
• Flip-Flops (one size smaller than you’d usually wear)
• Sharp tool (the pattern recommends an awl, skewer, or drill bit)
• Sharp scissors
• E6000 glue (available at most craft stores)
• Stitch markers (these are optional but always a good idea to keep track of where you are in the pattern)

Gauge is important in this pattern to ensure the right fit, so be sure and work  up some stitching before you jump into the project. Make sure that for 13 stitches, it equals 4″, and just under 9 rows should also equal 4″ (this is for the ankle shaft portion of the pattern). You’ll also need to be familiar with the following stitches: single crochet (sc), double crochet (dc), skip (sk), slip stitch (sl st), chain (ch), wrong side (WS), right side (RS), main color (mc), single crochet two together (sc2tog). All of these should be familiar to a wide range of crocheters, so even if you’re a beginner, these should not be too difficult to make.

Want a pair of these beautiful lacy crocheted boots? You can find the free pattern at the Make & Do Crew’s website.

205 total views, 18 today

Crochet bobble stitch (Free Patterns)

Kaitlin Cone Crochet August 8, 2017

Ever wonder how many blankets a new parent can use for their newborn? How many of those blankets end up getting put in the donation bin? If you want to make your friend or family member a baby blanket to welcome their new little one, you can make yours stand out (and avoid the Goodwill pile) with the crochet bobble stitch. Whether you choose to use one color, two, or use a variegated option, this stitch gives whatever project it’s used in a pop. It stands out but doesn’t take a lot of time to learn, making it a useful, practical stitch to spice up those favorite projects.

If you’re new to the bobble stitch, there are plenty of tutorials around, including options on the Free Patterns, Yarn, and Crochet Blog, where they’ve collected resources from around the web, including a chart (if you’ve never used charts before, you should learn how to read them for those difficult to impossible to find items that don’t come with instructions), a video tutorial, and several photos for inspiration (the bobble stitch is not limited to newborn items – they can be used to dress up a sweater, adorn a hat, or make a chic scarf).

Now that you’re considering the bobble stitch, give it a few practice tries before you incorporate it into a pattern. It’s a simple enough stitch for a beginner to learn, but it does take a few rounds before it becomes familiar enough to use on a project. You can start with something small, like an evening clutch, a hair accessory, or even something like a bookmark. This stitch is versatile and can be included in many patterns and projects. However you choose to use it, the bobble stitch is one you’ll likely return to again and again as a simple, yet effective stitch that catches the eye.

If you’re looking for bobble stitch baby blanket patterns, you might want to check out what Crochet Patterns For Beginners has to offer – there are plenty of video tutorials to choose from, including an easy bobble stitch chart project to a simple baby blanket that utilizes the stitch to create raised designs. You can either create a design (or use a chart for one) or just make a row of bobble stitches around the edges of the blanket. Crochet Patterns For Beginners collected quite a few photos for inspiration, and the bobble stitch has been used for a variety of things, from abstract shapes, to letters, to animals (like butterflies and dragonflies).

If you like what Crochet Patterns for Beginners has to offer in terms of bobble stitch baby blankets, you might want to check out their other offerings, including their e-books and embroidery section. They also have a search function that allows you to look for patterns if you’re having difficulty finding a specific item.

Want to try your hand at the crochet bobble stitch? Head over to Free Patterns, Yarns, and Crochet to watch their video tutorial, and then try out one of the baby blanket patterns chosen by Crochet Patterns for Beginners. Make sure the next baby blanket you give becomes a family heirloom.

1160 total views, 21 today

Crochet these Wrap Slippers (Free Patterns)

Kaitlin Cone Crochet August 4, 2017

Looking for that perfect pair of cozy slippers? Something you can slip into when you get home and relax into the softness of some friendly fibers? How about a classic pair of wrap slippers that you can crochet yourself?

With the crochet wrap slipper, you can customize to your heart’s content. Do you want to add leather soles? Include some buttons for a bit of interest? Fancy stitch work? Straps? A dash of color? You can add whatever you want – there are plenty of options.

The wrap slippers crochet up quickly due to the use of bulky yarn (one pattern suggests using Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick), in one or two colors. You’ll also need a size “N” crochet hook, a tapestry needle, stitch markers (or if you don’t have stitch markers, you can use safety pins), buttons, thread to match the buttons and/or yarn, and the materials for the soles if you’re going to add those.

While the adult-size slippers are typically sized for women ranging from 5 to 10, it is easy to size up by crocheting additional rows. It’s best to check the gauge first and then keep adjusting as you go along to ensure the perfect size. There aren’t too many complicated stitches either, with most patterns utilizing the following: chain (ch), single crochet (sc), single crochet two together (sc2tog), slip stitch (sl st), space (sp), right side (RS), wrong side (WS), and repeat (rep).

The patterns we found are both written and photo tutorials, allowing for an easier time following along. There are a few notes to read before starting, such as how to make a left and right slipper (some patterns will be the same up to a point and then switch), while some will not change at all. Some patterns are all in the round and some are crocheted in the round at the toe and then worked flat. For slippers, stitches are worked tight in order to create a good fit. You might also need to know a few basic stitches for sewing up the heel. One of the patterns calls for the mattress stitch. There are also instructions for changing out colors if you decide to use more than one color.

Want to try these wrap slippers yourself? If you want a child-size pattern for the toddlers in your life, you can check out the free wrap slipper pattern over at All Day Chic. If you’re more in need of adult-sized wrap slippers, you can find a free pattern over at Joe’s Toes or at The Make & Do Crew. If you’d rather purchase the pattern there’s one for sale in Annie’s Catalog – and if you want to make the slippers without the hassle of going through a yarn stash and trying to come up with materials, you can purchase a crochet kit from Craftsy, which comes complete with a pattern and a few skeins of yarn.

Below you’ll find a gallery of photos to inspire you, whether you purchase the pattern, try out the free options, or want to make up your own slipper pattern.

3169 total views, 14 today

Crochet Evening Clutch Bag (Free Pattern)

Kaitlin Cone Crochet August 4, 2017

Do you ever find something you want to crochet but then don’t know how to use it? Something cute that doesn’t seem to have a practical application? There’s a solution: turning the disparate parts into a whole. Caught On A Whim has done this with her delightful daisies. Once you crochet a couple dozen daisies, you can use them to make an elegant evening clutch.

To make the daisies, you’ll need both worsted weight yarn and fingering weight yarn, but don’t feel like you have to stick to the original colors of white and yellow. Feel free to experiment with pastel blues and pinks, or something darker like royal tones, or even primary colors.

You’ll need to know how to make a magic loop, as well as the following crochet stitches: chain (ch), slip stitch (sl st), single crochet (sc), and back loop only (blo). Most of these are beginner stitches so the daisies are a good project for someone wanting to try making something smaller and more delicate without a big fuss.

Then, once you get the hang of making the daisies, you can turn them into a cute clutch with another of Caught On A Whim’s patterns (though the pattern is for Mollie Flowers, it’s easily adaptable), the Flower Power Clutch, which is done by seaming the flowers together and then covering a zippered pouch. If you don’t sew regularly and don’t feel up to learning how to insert zippers (which can be difficult), you can purchase a plain zippered pouch from a craft store for cheap and use that instead. You can also add a strap if you choose (either by braiding several strands of the same yarns, or by crocheting a strap, or adding a leather detail or ribbon).

If these daisies are calling your name, you can find out how to make them at Caught On A Whim. If you want to try out the Mollie Flowers or the Flower Power Clutch, you can find those here.

628 total views, 10 today