crocheting my best with my worsted

Sorry Folks

2011-07-10T12:18:00.000-06:00

I'm having trouble with my Internet Explorer, it won't let me show my Followers. So I'm going to work on it for a little while and hopefully I can fix it, so hang in there with me :)

If anybody has any ideas I'm all ears.

Molly

A Sad Note

2011-06-06T23:50:00.001-06:00

I am so sorry to have been away from here for so long but my Mother passed away, she was 95 years young. So I have been just out of things but I am tip-toeing back in a little bit, so be prepared for my usual "Craziness to appear". Good Luck to all of you and take care.

Molly

I Actually Got Something Done!

2011-03-05T16:54:00.001-07:00

I got the small cap with the tassels finally finished last night. Of course I don't have anybody to send it to but I'll just wait and there will be one pretty soon that needs a little something to keep warm. We still have tons of snow on the ground and a big possibility of snow for the next 4 or 5 days. So it looks like I'll be making some more caps pretty soon. The yarn is from Heather on Ravelry and it is just the best softest and squishy kind you have ever felt.

Now onto the cap on the pretty lady, I won a crochet book and this cap came along with it as the woman designed it herself and it was posted in the book. She said she felt like I deserved to win the cap also. Wasn't that nice of her? So I must make a cap from her book and post it on here for y'all to see. So I think I will say Good-Bye for now and maybe if I get through with something else I'll show y'all tomorrow...................but don't hold your breath!!

Oh My Gosh!

2011-02-25T23:16:00.004-07:00

Well, Ms Tamara you have surely surprised me with this award. But I'm in the same spot you are, I think I have told everybody everything about me, but I'll give it a try anyway.

1. I am in my second marriage and we've been married for 37 years and he is just the best.
2. I have 8 grandchildren--but only 2 of them are girls!!
3. I have been crocheting since I was 8 years old, my Aunt taught me. I have also been sewing since I was 6 years old, my Mother taught me on an old treadle sewing machine.
4. For Valentine's Day my husband spoiled me and got me a Designer Dog, 1/2 Shih Tzu and 1/2 Pekingese (?). She is so spoiled but I do love her.
5. I do so love the snow but Jay doesn't let me out in it very often, so I guess I will just have to wait until spring.
6. Before I came down with MS I was a school teacher, after I became paralyzed I didn't think I could handle the kids correctly so I retired. I do love retirement!!
7. My first craft love is sewing then crocheting. I can't hand quilt anymore but I am trying to learn how to machine quilt........and I'm making a terrible mess!

I hope I told you some things that you didn't know about me, but I hope I didn't scare anybody off. Now for my list of people:
1. http://glor-crochetgalore.blogspot.com/
Crochet Galore
2. http://almacrochetforcharity.blogspot.com/
Alma's Blog
3. http://chickenstitches.blogspot.com/
Chicken Stitch
4. http://tomshack.blogspot.com/
Creative Bliss
5. http://crochetnuts-place.blogspot.com/
Nancy's Crochet
6. http://macrochet.blogspot.com/
Everyday Crochet
7. http://freeamigurumipatterns.blogspot.com/
Free Amigurumi Patterns
8. http://indigo-blue-designs.blogspot.com/
Indigo Blue
9. http://qualitycrochet4fun.blogspot.com/
Quality Crochet
10. http://marinecorpskids.blogspot.com/
Marine Corps Kids

I'm Fine

2011-01-24T20:26:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everybody that wrote saying they hope I felt better. It is so nice to get so many thoughtful comments from y'all. I really am okay I just needed a little more rest. So I think I will hit my bed early tonight so I can get on with my crocheting tomorrow.

But "Thanks" for all the well-wishes, I really appreciated them.

Stay inside and stay warm.

We Have A Winner !!!

2011-01-24T16:22:00.002-07:00

Well, people we do have a winner. I drew the name late last night then wound up in ER for awhile so that's why I am so slow today. I hope everyone continues to stop by and see what is going on here, this has really been fun for me, I hope all of you that didn't win still come by and hope you had fun here also. Okay, the name I drew has 48 hours to contact me with her address so if I don't hear from her then I draw another name.

So Good Luck to Allison and Thank You to all the others who participated. Stay warm and stay tuned. As my uncle used to say, "See you in the funny papers!"

Allison from Field Wonderful

What Was That Number?

2011-01-20T20:57:00.000-07:00

Can you believe that right now I have 203 followers? Which means I get lost very easily to have to have that many people follow me around so I can find my way back home. Interesting thought though isn't it?????

Almost 200

2011-01-20T06:27:00.000-07:00

Look at my followers--198, almost 200!! My Giveaway is getting close to the winning 200 entry. I decided to have my Giveaway when I reached my magic number of 200, I hope it won't be long now. I'm excited about it now!!

Take care and I'll see y'all soon!!

GiveawayGiveawayGiveaway

2011-01-08T16:17:00.000-07:00

Today is the day that I am announcing the start of my Giveaway plus a photo of the prize. It is starting tomorrow Sunday the 9th and ends on Sunday the 23rd. I will announce the winner after drawing names on the 24th and will wait for you to send me your address for 48 hours and if I do not hear from you then I will draw another name. Simple huh?

This book is one that I was given a long time ago by another crochet lady, It has 50 motifs in it that can be made using thread or fingering yarn or worsted weight yarn. As usual I am terrible at photos so I cannot get rid of the flash in the very center, so we will have to live with it. Anyway, this is one of the prizes and I will show more prizes later, so stay tuned!!

My New Purses--And A Giveaway!!

2011-01-05T01:34:00.002-07:00

I finally got the pictures done of the purses I have been working on. Gracious it seemed like forever before I got the pictures made, as a matter of fact I have already picked out 4 other colors from Hobby Lobby and purchased the yarn for them. Now how is that for getting started on an early Christmas. So here are the photos then keep on reading for some other news.

Now don't you think these would be oh so cute for some little girls to carry around? Now on to the second part of my story.

In case you haven't noticed I have reached 191 followers, I can't believe it. I thought I was doing great when I reached 10 people!! Sooooo, when I reach 200 I am going to have a big Giveaway of "something" to do with crocheting. I won't tell you until we get a lot closer to the big 200, so you'd better stay tuned to see what is going on. But I will say this......the major prize is not one of these purses. Gotcha there didn't I???

I will keep up with you if you'll hang in there with me, okay? Chat with you soon.

What's New Around Here?

2010-12-30T00:20:00.001-07:00

Well, we here in South Dakota are going to be shoveling out from a ton of snow for the next 3-4 days. Doesn't that sound like fun? I thought so until Jay reminded me that I won't be going outside I will be stuck here in the house under house arrest, and then he gave me that evil little grin of his. The doctor says I should not be going out under any sort of bad conditions because of my ease of catching something close to a cold? Now would I go and do that???? So we just won't mention that I have a 9:45am Doctors appointment in the morning that I really shouldn't be going to, but I told Jay to bundle me up really well and let's give it a try before it got to much snow.......you don't even want to know what look I got on that suggestion. So thank heavens I have plenty of yarn and a ton of things I can make for next Christmas, or gifts for birthdays during this year.

So I suppose I really should get to bed so I will be bright and bushy tailed in the morning and ready to work. It would be nice if I knew what I was working on????? Take care my friends and stay warm.

2010-12-25T20:07:00.005-07:00

Merry Christmas to All !!

Finally Online

2010-12-17T21:11:00.001-07:00

My monitor quit the other day so Jay has been looking everywhere for me a new one. Finally he found me one late last night and went and picked it up around 9:00p.m. Since it was so late he didn't hook it up until this morning and since he had a Santa thing to do today I haven't had a chance until now to get on it. It works great!! I am so proud of it and of Jay for sticking with it to find me the right one, it works so good.

So I will be back on here sometime tomorrow to write and let you know what I have been up to, so just hang in there a little while longer, okay? Check with you real soon.

One Gift Done, One To Go

2010-12-05T17:51:00.001-07:00

I finished the organizer that fits on the arm of Jay's chair to hold all his stuff. Like his remote, the telephone, pen and paper and his glasses. In other words, his whole world. I've placed a photo down below so you can see what I've done, I really like it.

Now I'm on to see about crocheting him an envelope and then make a card to go inside of it. My MS doesn't let me write so I'll have to make it on the computer instead. But never fear, I will let y'all see what it looks like before I give it to him.

Take care everybody, stay warm.

I've Got It

2010-12-03T23:08:00.002-07:00

I certainly had some super ideas given to me for Jay's birthday present and have decided on a couple of them. One was a crocheted envelope with a nice card inside inviting him out for dinner so he won't have to cook his own birthday meal, and the other was for one of those "things" that go on the arm of his easy chair with pockets that holds his remote, his glasses, his tissues or anything else he wants to cram in there.

So now I just need him to disappear so I can get to work on this and get it finished by Wed. night and get it wrapped before he wakes up Thursday morning. Anybody want to babysit a pretty big baby????? He's going to be 63 years old, how is that possible? Shoot I'm only........I forgot, must have been a Senior moment. =)

I suppose I'm going to have to use these late nights when Jay has gone to bed to get things all cut out and ready to sew tomorrow. He's so good about asking what I'm making and I just say 'something to talk about on my blog' so I think I'll be pretty safe. Check back in with me tomorrow and see how I'm doing. Night ladies, I'm off to work.

I've Got The Blues

2010-12-01T22:14:00.001-07:00

Actually I do. Going from one Giveaway Day to just a regular old day is pretty boring. So that means I had to actually do some work today. I had to sit down and write myself a letter of intent on presents that I still plan to make. Talking about a long list--but a much more interesting one anyway. Until I reminded myself that my husband has a birthday on December 9, do I have him anything? No. Do I have anything planned for him? No. Am I going crazy about now? Yes. I have stayed up tonight so I could go through some of my patterns and see if I could find something that just jumped out at me.......well, so far no luck. My husband is a real man, he pats me on the back when I make something and tells me how good it looks, heaven forbid if I ask him what it is. He cooks great and does all the cleaning as well as Martha Stewart does, but when it comes to yarn gifts, I am out of luck.

So I am back to my patterns to see if I can find him something, unless somebody out there in blogland has a super idea they want to cast my way I will still be here in the morning. But trust me, if I find a great pattern, y'all will hear me roar. Night Ladies and I'm off looking.

We Have A Winner !!

2010-11-30T12:41:00.002-07:00

First off, I want to apologize for this notice being so late but I had a bad health problem last night and wound up in ER. So on to good news.

The winner is......Ta Da, Ta Da

Yaya Yarns

Now if you will just send me your mailing address in an email I will get this off to you as soon as the Holidays are over. Thank you to everyone that entered and I wish I could send a package off to y'all.

Giveaway Last Day

2010-11-29T14:07:00.003-07:00

For those of you that don't think you have time to enter my Giveaway.....you are so wrong. Today is the last day, it ends at Midnight tonight, so you still have time.

I want to take this moment to tell everybody "Thank You" for entering. I haven't even looked to see how many have entered but I know there is a bunch. I know there can be only one that wins but I wish I had a gift for everyone, you have really made this so much fun and so full of excitement that we will definitely do another one before too long.

So Thanks and Good Luck to everybody.

I Make My Own Snow

2010-11-28T18:48:00.002-07:00

We have been having snow off and on for about a week. But it really is pretty bad when you have to make your own snow. Now to tell the truth, I was over at a friend of mine, her blog, and I happened to see that she had a snowflake on there that she had made. It was the cutest thing. Well, I decided to give it a try, and see what it looked like. I loved it !

Anyway, I'm posting a photo of mine so you can see how well it snowed--HaHa--at my house, plus I am posting the link to my friends blog so you can get her instructions on how to make your own. I hope you enjoy checking her blog out. Take care my friends.

Clara's Crochet Room
http://clarascrochetroom.blogspot.com/

Did Y'all Live Through Thanksgiving?

2010-11-27T20:42:00.001-07:00

We had a great Thanksgiving Day Feast, so great that we had to come home to take a nap before going back to pig out one more time. Now how we were able to down two meals is beyond me but we did it. So after we just took it easy for the rest of the day, we went to bed. Wasn't that an exciting day? We really had a good time and Jay cooked us a great dinner, our lady that we took lunch to had such a good time laughing at Jay that she almost cried. I suppose we really all needed that nap more than we thought we did, we sure cooked pretty hard.

But we had a good time and here it is Saturday and I still haven't done much of anything yet. I've been going through my stuff and trying to decide what will take the longest to make and start on that project next. I still have too many projects to make, oh what will I do?

I suppose I will do what every smart person does on a day like today.......be lazy! Everybody take care and try to get enough rest!!

Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T10:31:00.002-07:00

Tomorrow is such a special day and I hope everybody has a great Thanksgiving. We all have many things to be thankful for, so let's remember all the good things that have happened to us and rejoice about them. So.....

Happy Thanksgiving Y'all

Finished Soxs!!

2010-11-19T18:09:00.003-07:00

Well, I finally got my second sock finished for my pair of tube socks. I love these just as much as I love the other pair. I may decide to not give them away for Christmas after all!! Anyway, here is a photo of the finished pair and notice how the stripes came out, pretty funny looking isn't it?

Oh, well, I may have to wear them all winter. Take care and keep those hooks working pretty hard for December.

My Next Project

2010-11-18T20:13:00.002-07:00

I have been making some more Christmas items lately, I'm not so sure who they will all go to but I know who will get one pair of them.

This is a pair of tube socks, they are so quick to make and so comfortable to wear. They are just unbelievable on how comfortable they are to wear around the house and to sleep in. I am making another pair and I'm not so sure who will get this pair for Christmas this year. I only have one sock made but I am almost through with the second sock.

Isn't this a cute color arrangement? It is a variegated yarn called Autumn by Red Heart. I love how the colors work out into stripes with no planning of my own. I'll put the photo up tomorrow when I finish the other one. If you are interested in making some of these here is the link to where you will find the pattern.

http://www.bevscountrycottage.com/maxines-bed-sox.html

If you notice that you can make these really small like baby size they could be used for baby socks, or baby mittens. I have done both sizes and they have worked out really well, so give it a chance if you have time.

Enjoy making them and give me a yell if you run into a problem and I'll see if I can help you out some.

What Did You Say?

2010-11-17T22:17:00.002-07:00

Well ladies, we are getting quite a few names on our drawing list, but we still have room for more. I'm not going to give numbers out but YaYa Yarns sure has several listed, so some of you other ladies better get busy and get your names in here.

Subject change now. In case you haven't read my Sewing, Quilting and a bunch of Whatever blog, I mentioned that we are having an Easter Giveaway to help raise funds so we can get money to purchase Easter items for the VA patients. Now first off I would say you need to go to my other blog and read all about it, you can get there by clicking on my Star Quilt on the right sidebar and it will take you there. Very easy to get there and if you have anything to donate to our drawing I will put your photo and one of your item on here unless you'd rather not, I will do as you say.

I know you are very busy right now so think about it later, you can also let me know later. So I will say bye for now and try to think up some other item to make for the drawing. Take care my friend.

Giveaway !!!

2010-11-11T23:17:00.001-07:00

Now just to keep y'all from going crazy, I will let you know that I am still making and digging out things to go to the winner of my Giveaway. I have found so much to give as a prize I may have to have 2 of those people. But hubby says "No, you said one winner and that is what it needs to be." So, one it is. But you'd better not plan on doing anything on the 30th of November because after you see what I am sending you, well, let's just say you won't be able to sit still long enough for the postman to get to your house.

I suppose I should quit bragging and just remind you, leave your message on the original Giveaway post, I read each one and some of you ladies have gotten pretty crafty in your language. Anyway, I read each one and I am filing it in my "Giveaway" file and that's where they all stay until drawing day. So ladies---keep 'em coming!! =)

Still Giveaway

2010-11-10T10:44:00.002-07:00

I suppose I should get off of here and get back to work. So y'all have a great day and keep those
Well, you read it right, the giveaway is still going on. Make sure you stop by my Giveaway post and leave a comment for me. All the comments for the Giveaway must be left on my Giveaway post to be eligible for the drawing. Plus I didn't answer all the comments but I did receive a bunch of them. So that's about all there is to it.

Of course I have been working on gifts for Christmas, but since I don't know what all to make I work on Scarves!! When I don't know what to make that's what I work on. At this time I am working on a Camo yarn one. I don't like not having several extra gifts on hand, it seems like we never have enough. I try to make scarves and hats to match for extras but this year I don't know that I will get them all made.

hooks flying----at least until Christmas that is. Take care and I'll chat with y'all later.

GIVEAWAYGIVEAWAYGIVEAWAY

2010-11-08T22:37:00.004-07:00

I know this isn't the usual Giveaway, but here goes. It will be a surprise one, I will put a photo on here after the name has been drawn. Now how is that for different, huh?? The rules are very simple, because I am simple minded----I heard that laugh. =) Okay here goes for the rules.

1. You will get one entry for every time you leave a comment on this post only.
2. You will get one entry if you are a Follower on here, new or existing one.
3. You must let me know that you are a Follower because I don't know everyone that is one.
4. Please leave a way to get in touch with you in case you win. You will have 48 hours to email me back, after that I choose another person.

Does everyone understand my crazy rules? I sure hope so because I would hate for this book, spools of yarn, hooks and let's see what else I can come up with by the end of this.

The entry will run from 7:00a.m. on November 9, 2010--Midnight on November 29, 2010. The time will run for you where ever you live. So everybody better get busy, okay???

A New Award

2010-11-01T23:33:00.002-06:00

For those of you that only look at photos, if you will look at the top left one here on my blog you will see that it is one award that I have won from Clara at Clara's Crochet Room at:
http://clarascrochetroom.blogspot.com/

So in going with the rules as Clara has put them down I must give this award out to 10 people and also tell you 10 things you probably don't know about me. So, here goes the first part, the 10 people.

1. Paulette at http://beedeebabee.blogspot.com/
2. Cat at http://lifebyhook.blogspot.com/
3. Fern at http://crafterholic.blogspot.com/
4. Jeanne at http://tomshack.blogspot.com/
5. Faith at http://crochetbythesea.blogspot.com/
6. Sandie at http://crochetcabana.blogspot.com/
7. Megan at http://crocheteveryday.blogspot.com/
8. Glor at http://glor-crochetgalore.blogspot.com/
9. Naida at http://yarnchick.blogspot.com/
10. Tamara at http://crochetwithtamara.wordpress.com/

Now on to the second part which is to tell you 10 things people don't usually know about me.

1. I spend most of my day in my wheelchair.
2. I have multiple sclerosis and was paralyzed for almost 1 1/2 yrs.
3. I love all animals, but am not real crazy about large dogs.
4. My Aunt (on my Daddy's side) taught me at 8 yrs. old how to crochet, she says so I could read her the instructions.
5. My husband is my best friend in the whole world.
6. I am a pre-k teacher, retired.
7. I miss most being able to just go for a walk and look at rocks and leaves.
8. I'm afraid my condition is wearing my husband down, he is getting very tired lately.
9. I miss teaching, I think I am like my Mother and was born to teach.
10. My Mother should have been a teacher, she taught me how to read before I was even old enough to start school.

Well, I suppose thats it folks. Either you like me or you don't. But I like you just the same. I will let everyone know of their award so they can stop by here to pick theirs up. Thanks again Clara, and you ladies make sure you go by her blog and visit. Tell her I said "Hi."

Photos Phinally!!

2010-11-01T15:33:00.002-06:00

Yes, I know I didn't spell the title right, and that was on purpose. I wanted to see how many people would actually read it without seeing the mistake.

Okay, on to the photos. Do you remember the scarf I started ages ago for one of the little girls that lives across the street from us that is 2 yrs. old going on 7 yrs. old. She thinks she should dress up like her 2 sisters do when they get ready to go to school just so she can play around in the house. So I made her a very small and short scarf for her to wear or to play with, we'll see what her Mom does with that one. Anyway, here is the photo of it, I think it turn out very cute.

Now onto photo number 2. Remember that afghan that I was working on that just didn't seem to work? Well, I decided to add just a few more rows and finish it up as a wheelchair leghan, there are so many people where I stayed 2 months in Rehab that could use something like this, so Photo #2.

Onto Photo #3. This is the shrug that I made to show my version of the shawl that I started. All it works up to be is a long shawl that when you put it on you bring the 2 top edges down to the center front and add some buttons. There are 3 buttons there but you can only see 2 of them, the middle one is hiding in the button flap. I added a shell edge to the 2 short ends and a hdc edging to the 2 long sides, it sort of added the finished look. So here is that photo.

Well, now I am on to work on something else, What you ask? Who knows!! But it has to be a better gift than you can see here because I still have several people on my list, plus a Surprise Santa Gift. I wonder what I will do for her????

Guess What?

2010-10-30T22:54:00.001-06:00

Well, I didn't see many raise their hands, so I guess I'll just have to tell you. The picture I've put on here from the last post that I did, you will remember it if you look below, well anyway it has become a lap afghan. Now don't ask me how it happened, it just does. I start out to make one item and then all of a sudden the wind changes and my object that I am working on changes shape and becomes something else. Who knows? Well, anyway, I have got that finished and a little shawl *type* thing that I will have to take a photo of tomorrow and put on here. Then I am back on my caps I think, at least I hope so. I have so many poor and cold heads and ears running around here it looks like I should be having a marathon. Plus I have a cap needed for the special lady that has the 3 little ones that I usually make something warm for, she told me the other day exactly what she needed so I just need to get busy. At least she didn't give me a color choice, I love it when people do that because I can really come up with some *lou lous* if you will just turn me loose with my yarn. Well, it is getting late and I better get off this computer and try to get to sleep, heaven knows Jay won't let me rest tomorrow, we go to the church for our Senior Citizens potluck lncheon. He thinks it won't be all eaten if we aren't there on time. Bye everybody and see if I can take photos tomorrow------hope so. =)

Shawl Come!!

2010-10-19T21:15:00.001-06:00

Okay, enough about my joking. I can hear all the smirks going on in the back of the classroom. This is a shawl that I am making from the zillion that I need to make from the two great books that I have won. One is from Tamara Gonzales blog and Bev Matheson blog, these two ladies each had projects in the books that I won and they are both about Prayer Shawls. Now how cool is that??? In case you haven't been checking up on me lately, I have been trying to find a regular sort of shawl that I could crochet pretty fast. I wanted to make several of them and donate to the society, well, I think I found the pattern. But then I turn the page and I want to do this other one, and on and on it goes. So I think there might seriously be 3 or 4 that I might make over and over. But I don't think I can make them all, then in the other book there are 3 or 4 in that one that I could do over and over. Gosh, I think I'm going a little crazy now!!!! Okay, maybe not so true. The shawl grows from the left and right sides. Here is the shawl that I have been working on and it is in Tamara's book here is her link:

http://crochetwithtamara.wordpress.com/

A New Blog

2010-10-11T17:58:00.001-06:00

So now that I have everyones attention, no I'm not starting a new blog. Gotcha!! Actually, I am bragging about the book that I won from Tamara's blog. I finally got it in the mail, and oh my gosh, is it ever a goodie.

I have been on the search through all of my prayer shawl patterns trying to find just the perfect one that I want to make to donate to a charity. But it seems that I haven't been able to find the perfect one. But then when I found out that I won this book from Tamara's blog, well my troubles were over. I knew that there was going to be the perfect shawl in it. Much to my surprise when I did receive it in the mail and opened it to discover that every single one was perfect. Now I must relax and decide which one I need to make first......or second. Oh no, this is going to be a problem. But I am going to make the one that is on Page 20 called "For Every Need." It was made by Mary E. Nolfi, and is it a prayer shawl or a prayer shrug. Well actually it is both, you can button the solid borders of the shawl to create sleeves. So it can be worn either way, and it will look very pretty either way. I suppose y'all will have to wait to see it when I get it finished, so let's hope I don't run into any problems along the way. I don't think I will. =)

In case you've forgotten where to find Tamara, click on the link below and you will find her. Enjoy.

http://crochetwithtamara.wordpress.com/

A New Square

2010-10-09T16:13:00.000-06:00

Okay it really isn't a square it is a Hexagon. Well, I know how to make a hexagon, but just in case you don't I've included the site where I got the pattern from. Now this site has lots of things going for it, Debi has lots patterns on this site and lots of other stuff you'd want to see also.

So take a few minutes out of your day and spend a few of them looking here. Now I will post the photo of the way I made mine and the colors I chose. I didn't have the exact colors I wanted to use, so I just chose the best I had.

http://hooksandyarns.blogspot.com/2010/05/debi-ys-hexagon-version-2.html

I'm Going Away

2010-10-05T12:10:00.000-06:00

Well, not for long and not very far, but I'm still going away. Jay and I are celebrating our 37th wedding anniversary TODAY so we are going to spend the night in a nice motel. We are going into Rapid City which is about 10 miles from where we live, and get us a room and be lazy for one whole night. You know you're getting old when you look forward to a rendezvous with a good looking man so the two of you can.......do nothing for a whole night.

I'm actually not going to take any crocheting with me, but I must admit I am taking my iPod with me. Of course my iPod has books on it, not songs. I sometimes have to listen to it before I can relax enough to fall asleep.

So, if anybody is looking for me I will be at ??????? I'm not telling because it is a secret meeting. So Ta Ta for now and I will chat with y'all tomorrow.

Guess What?

2010-10-04T20:44:00.000-06:00

Well, I did one of the squares wrong. Yep, I sure did. Donna sent me the updated pattern and I will make it tomorrow, the Baby Ball one is suppose to have the colors sort of swirl around but mine keeps the colors on top of each other. I guess an old dog can learn new tricks, huh?

Okay, another note about a Giveaway that is happening at StitchingnShipping site. If you look over to the left sidebar and see the top button, it is a little girl. Click on that button and it will take you to her site and her giveaway. It is very much worth the couple of minutes it will take for you to do this.

Now I suppose I'd better get to work and see if I can make this square "correctly". =)

Testing New Patterns

2010-10-03T21:36:00.001-06:00

Well I have been testing new patterns again for Smooth Fox (link to her site will be below). We don't usually get small items like squares but this time we got 3 squares and a triangle to test. This was a lot of fun and done very quickly.

Her site is a great place to go because she has lots of her own designed patterns down the sidebar and she has tons that are free although she does have some to purchase. She really is great to work with because she is never too busy to answer any questions.

Now for photos for the ones I just finished, hope you enjoy them, and here is the link to SmoothFox's blog.

http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com

1. Baby Ball Square

2. Granny Textured Square

3. Circle To Hexagon Triangle

4. Starfish

Trouble With A Small Scarf

2010-09-30T13:12:00.000-06:00

Has anybody ever had trouble making a small scarf? Well, I have. This scarf is for a little 3 yr. old girl who wants to dress like her two big sisters and so she needs a scarf. Now my first thought is---choking hazard. But her Mom insists she will be careful, but I'm still worried. So instead of making her the button up style that Mom wants I am making her a regular scarf but not very wide and not very long. Since this is a freebie I figure Mom can complain all she wants to but I am not going to be responsible for this little one getting caught on something and there being problems.

The photo I am showing you is what I am making her and it is about halfway done, like I said it is not going to be very long. But I must admit I do love the yarn, it is Red Heart Super Saver and the color is Monet, I decided that since it is a freebie I could use this saved bit and not have to buy anything. Mom said the color didn't matter so that was a blessing. I am only working the scarf in hdc all the way so it is going fast.

I am ready to fnish this scarf and get back to my beaded necklace bag, after all I need it finished to mail before Christmas !!!!! Here's my photo, I really like the colors.

Pattern For Cap

2010-09-25T22:15:00.002-06:00

I've had a couple of people ask me for the pattern for my cap. Well that would be great if I had a pattern, this is sort of one of those things that I just wing it as I go along. But here is what I can halfway say is a pattern.

H hook

Yarn appropriate for persons head (baby or adult)

Ch 50, I worked each row in hdc until the hat was the length that I thought would fit around the persons head. For an adult I measure the hat to equal 20" so it will stretch and fit well, for a baby's head I measure 17", for a child I measure 19".

Then I sew up the back seam so it creates a "tube" shape, then lay one end flat and sew that together all the way across, this will be the top. Cut several strands of yarn to create the tassels for each corner. On the other end I work a row of single crochet just to give the cuff end a finished look, fold up the cuff and you're done.

If I have everyone totally mixed up then write me back and I'll see if I can unscramble some of this. It really is just a very plain hat so hopefully I haven't messed everybody up. Take care and cover those heads it's going to be cold soon

Cap Is Finished !!

2010-09-23T20:20:00.002-06:00

As my title says, I have finished the cap that matches the scarf. I am so happy to be done with both of these because I so want to start on my next project. Plus I wonder why I have trouble sleeping? It's because I can't stop thinking of other things to make. Do y'all have the problem of having a project you want to make but there is nobody you know to give it to?

I use to have this problem until I discovered how many people here in Rapid City, S.D. don't get Christmas gifts at all. Now I must admit that some of my items are too flashy and just not practical enough for these people but I still enjoy making them and sending them all to the nursing homes here.

My Mother is 95 and still loves something nice and even a little flashy sometimes, so I make her a necklace purse with beads for just those sort of days. She carries her glasses in it and feels like a queen, she has even asked if I would make some for her friends, minus the beads *LOL* I think she likes being the fanciest of them all. So that is my next project, a small bag with beads, just as soon as I decide what color yarn and what color beads I'll be all set.

Well, here is the photo of the cap that matches the scarf and I hope the child that receives it will enjoy wearing it and stay warm. I hope you like how it turned out, I certainly do.

Finished Another Project

2010-09-22T14:47:00.001-06:00

I just couldn't stand it, I had to start another project even though I am working on a cap that matches my scarf. I can't help it, I must have at least 2 or 3 things going at the same time or it drives me crazy. I am bad about getting bored working on the same thing so that's why if I take a break from that project I need something else to work on. My poor little brain is so easily confused that it needs all the help I can give it.

Anyway, I started on my washcloth yesterday and finished it up today. I used Sugar 'n Cream in variegated shades of blue and made it using the hdc and the cross hdc stitch. I worked 2 rows of regular hdc and then 2 rows of crossed hdc, I really like the way it turned out, I may have to make some more and add them to my gift suitcase. I know that sounds goofy but I took a big suitcase and turned it into a place to save all my gifts that will fit in there. Pretty soon I may have to get another suitcase because this one is really getting full.

Sharlene over at http://solarcookingathome.blogspot.com/ gave me a very good tip a while back. She makes a crocheted pocket and adds it to the back of her washcloths, then there is a place to put a very nice bar of soap, whether it is for her own use or added in when she gives it as a gift. I thought that was so clever, I think I'm going to have to grab that idea and do it myself.

Below is a photo of the washcloth that I just finished, minus the pocket, I'll show you that when I get it added. Take care and have a great day.

One Project Finished

2010-09-21T15:12:00.000-06:00

Remember the other day when I was talking about this wonderful yarn I received, and how soft it was and how beautiful it is? Well, I finished the scarf so now all I have to make is the hat. This yarn is so chunky that it quickly works up so it shouldn't take me all that long to make my hat.....well, hopefully it won't. I hope my photo shows the yarn well enough, I am not the best photographer in the world.

My project after the hat is I want to make a beaded purse, well actually it is not really a purse it is just a small bag that hangs from a crocheted chain and you wear it around your neck. I have no idea what yarn I'll use or what color, plus I haven't decided on what sort of beads I will use. So what have I decided on ? Nothing---except that I am going to make this little bag. Same thing happens to me when it is time for supper---what are we going to eat ? But I never get into trouble on that 'cause I can always find food around here somewhere.

Okay, here's the photo of my scarf, I really like it. Now just figure out which g-child gets it for Christmas. Take care everybody.

"G S" is for Granny Squares

2010-09-19T00:16:00.003-06:00

Now if you read the title to this post you don't have to be Sherlock Holmes to figure out what I am talking about. The link below is to a great site that has just all sorts of patterns but one that caught my eye is using Granny Squares. I am the sort of person that finds time to crochet anywhere, although I have curbed myself from doing it in an elevator. I keep leftover yarn and a hook in my "large" purse so that I can yank it out and get to work whenever I am stuck someplace, Jay is nice and carries a book......I'm not nice =) I have surprised myself on how many squares I can make when I am just goofing off and not really working toward a project end, I just sort of think to myself that I will just make a square and save it until the day comes that I will have enough to put together to create something. Of course, I have no idea what I will make. I will be as surprised as you will be !! I also just love the fact that I feel I am using every bit of leftover yarn that I can, goodness knows I don't need to buy any I have enough to last me through the winter. But don't you feel good when you have that little bit of yarn left and then find that it can be used on a square or there is enough there to make just one more row on several small squares? Boy I sure do, I feel like I have just found a pot of gold.

Speaking of gold......a friend of mine gave me several skeins of yarn she had gotten from Hobby Lobby, it is called Yarn Bee Mosaic Twist and is 3oz., it is part wool, cotton, and acrylic. It costs around $6.64 a skein. Now I am sort of cheap and this is a little out of my league for such a small amount BUT, this is the softest stuff I think I have ever worked with. Now back to the gold part......did you think I had forgotten you? This yarn has a gold thread spun in with the other colors and to me that is so beautiful, it seems like all I ever see is silver with the yarn. It also is a chunky weight which makes it even easier to manage. So through all of this I am making a scarf (# gazillion) and a purse (haven't a clue on pattern) and as soon as I finish them I will post a photo so you all can see how pretty this stuff really is.

So I suppose if I did less talking and more stitching I might get some work finished----but as that old song goes "I Gotta Be Me !!" For you younger ones that have never heard that song before, rest safely because I am not going to sing it, trust me. Take care my friends and have a great day.

http://www.seafore.com/index.html

Comfy Slippers

2010-09-06T17:46:00.000-06:00

We have all been working on our Christmas gifts early and I just finished my first pair of slippers to add to my stack of finished gifts. This has to be the easiest pair of slippers that anybody could make. Basically they are a big rectangle that you fold together and sew up the back for the heel section, use a piece of yarn to draw up the toe section, and then sew up the section that would be the top of the foot. This pattern comes from Bev's site and she has great instructions for them plus you can make them in any size just make your chain the length of the persons foot. I have included the link to her site below and the photo is one of the slippers I just finished. I hope you give this one a try because they are so easy and quick to make, you will really keep this pattern in your stack of 'keepers'. Have fun.

http://www.bevscountrycottage.com/slippers1.html

A Different Square

2010-08-31T22:55:00.001-06:00

After the last square I thought I might better make one that would be softer colors. Well, Smooth Fox came through with another one she had designed and needed testing, so I was all set for it. I really like the design of the square but I am also very pleased with the colors. It's about time I did something right don't you think??? As always I am including the link to her blog where she has many free patterns and trust me all of them are written so well nobody can have trouble reading and following them. So check out this square and pop over and visit Donna and see all the pretties she has.

http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/

Is This Too Bright???

2010-08-26T22:29:00.000-06:00

I tested this square for Smooth Fox and it really turned out well........except for one thing. I hate the colors. I liked them from the beginning but somewhere there it became too bright and the colors seemed to all run together. But the pattern was great, just my color scheme off today.

If you haven't been to her site you really should, she has a lot of free patterns and it is just a great place to visit. I'll have a link to her below.

Well, it wasn't a lost square because my neighbor loved it so much that I gave it to her and she is adding it to the center of a gift she is making for Christmas. So, I guess I did okay on it anyway. I suppose I'd better quit talking and get back to work, to stop talking is just impossible for me to do.....I heard that laughing =)

http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/

This Way Or That Way

2010-08-19T23:21:00.004-06:00

I am working on a reversible baby blanket and I am making each side a different color. I then am putting a row of sc around each strip and then a row of hdc. I really like the white edging and that is also what I plan to use to join the strips together with. In the photo I have the strips laid out like I will probably sew them together and I have folded back the edge so you can see what the reverse side will look like. I'm working on another strip now and will add some more but I haven't decided how many yet. I'll keep you updated on how it is coming along, so for now you will just have to settle for this photo of an unassembled blanket. Each strip is made with an H hook and I started out with a ch 20 and worked it until the strip becomes 33" long. You can click on the photo to make it larger. The strip colors are from left to right as follows.
1. Red on front side turquoise on the reverse side
2. Baby blue on front side baby pink on the reverse side
3. Yellow on front side purple on the reverse side
4. Light brown on front side cream on the reverse side
5. Mexacali variegated on front side and green on the reverse side.
Enjoy!!

Christmas # ???

2010-08-11T22:30:00.000-06:00

Well I have finished my Christmas in July series and I hope everyone enjoyed it as much as I did. It was really fun but it sure made me notice how far behind I am in gift making. But that is nothing new for me I am always behind.

I just had to make another Ripple Snuggle Sack for a baby......whose baby? I haven't a clue but I am ready if a new little one makes its appearance. I have included the link to the pattern I am using and it is really a super easy one to do. I am sure I will be making more of these and y'all will be sick of seeing them, sorry but when I get on a roll it is hard to get me to stop.

Okay, here is the photo and the link.
http://suzies-yarnie-stuff.blogspot.com/2010/03/suzies-ripple-sleep-sack-and-cap.html

Christmas in July/August # 12

2010-08-02T00:25:00.002-06:00

Okay, so I goofed and didn't get this last one posted in July. Please forgive me and check it out anyway.
There is no sense to this entry it is just some stuff that I liked, you just have to put up with me.

Christmas Crochet Pattern Central
http://www.crochetpatterncentral.com/directory/christmas_ornaments.php
This site has so many entries that I couldn't put a photo for each one, you'll just have to check them all out yourself. Enjoy !

Ripple Arm Warmers
http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet-Hats-Scarves-Gloves/Arm-Warmers-Crochet-Pattern-from-Caron-Yarn

Ken's Crochet
http://crochetguy.tripod.com/id11.html
If you have never been here you are missing some good stuff. Sorry about no photo on this one, just too many things.

Hooded Sweater
http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet-Sweaters/Hooded-Sweater-Crochet-Pattern

Christmas Ball Cover
http://web.archive.org/web/20050206224945/www.crochetpartners.org/Patterns/CPpat93.html
Sorry, I just don't think you can have too many of these.

Satin Ball Covers

http://pandacrochet.8m.com/ornaments.html

Chemo Cap

http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet-Hats-Scarves-Gloves/A-Chemo-Cap-to-Crochet-from-Bernat

This is an easy one to make and is really warm.

Beaded Card Case

http://suzies-yarnie-stuff.blogspot.com/2009/01/my-beaded-playing-card-case-c.html
I think this would be great for my iPod, what do y'all say?

Flattering Jacket

http://lionbrand.com/patterns/chs-flatteringJacket.html?r=1

Christmas In July # 11

2010-07-27T22:22:00.001-06:00

Today is another mixture of all sorts of gift ideas so I hope you enjoy browsing through these ideas.

Baby Face Cloths
http://promotions.drgnetwork.com/newsletters/talkingcrochet/pages/TCNL2706_patt.html

Crocheted Collar

http://theongoingproject.blogspot.com/2008/06/crochet-collar-pattern.html

Easy Baby Socks

http://web.archive.org/web/20071114233351/www.geocities.com/Heartland/Ranch/4054/newbornsocks.htm

Happy Reindeer

http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/80971AD.html

Pot Handle Cover

http://dishclothdiaries.blogspot.com/2008/04/pot-handle-cover.html

Beaded Post Earrings
http://www.jpfun.com/patterns/free/jewelry/f107002_beadedpost.shtml

Dainty Earrings
http://www.jpfun.com/patterns/free/jewelry/f107008_daintyearrings.shtml

Pineapple Bell
http://carolynmurphy.tripod.com/pinapbel.html

Thread Ball Cover
http://www.crochetsal.com/ballcover.html

Christmas In July # 10

2010-07-21T13:54:00.001-06:00

The links this time are sort of a mixture of different types of items to be made. So I hope you enjoy them, have fun.

Simple Wrist Warmers
http://qualitycrochet4fun.blogspot.com/2008/02/simple-wrist-warmers.html

Beaded Caps
http://suzies-yarnie-stuff.blogspot.com/2009/05/suzies-lotsa-beads-beanie-adults-c.html

Ruffled Sachets
http://www.crochetmagazine.com/newsletters.php?mode=issue&issue_id=10&department_id=7

Colorful Coasters
http://www.crochetmagazine.com/newsletters/talkingcrochet/pages/TCNL2708_patt2.html

Tea Cosy
http://crochetroo.blogspot.com/2006_05_01_archive.html

Baby Jacket
http://www.bevscountrycottage.com/hexagon-jacket.html

Animal Ears Cap
http://crochetme.com/media/p/95436.aspx

Christmas In July # 9

2010-07-18T23:26:00.001-06:00

Today I am going to share some afghan ideas, I have so many I will probably have another afghan day also. So check these out and see if there is anything here that will help you with your gifts.

Corner To Corner Afghan
http://web.archive.org/web/20041009192258/www.thesmartyarns.com/patterns/Nov00/cornertocorner.html

Easy Sc-Dc Afghan
http://crochet.about.com/od/easy/a/easyscdcsq.htm?nl=1

Hexagon Afghan
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/chs-hexagonAfghan.html?noImages=0&r=1&r=1

Mile A Minute Afghan
http://web.archive.org/web/20010819064314/http://www.thesmartyarns.com/patterns/July01/mileafghan.html

Beth's Little Star Afghan
http://www.angelfire.com/va3/heartfeltangels/littlestarafghan.html

Bev's Afghans
http://www.bevscountrycottage.com/afghans.html
Scroll down the page for many more patterns.

Afghan With Sleeves
http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet-Afghans/Afghan-with-Sleeves-Crochet-Pattern

Christmas In July # 8

2010-07-16T00:06:00.000-06:00

I hope y'all are bookmarking these ideas 'cause I know you can't make them and keep up with these posts. My poor little fat fingers are ready for a rest. But here goes another day of ideas. Enjoy !

Cradle Purse
http://crotiques.com/origcradle.htm

Black Cat Bag

http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/70461AD.html?r=1

Holiday Tote Bag

http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet-Bags/Holiday-Tote-Crochet-Pattern

Ripple Tote Bag
http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet-Bags/Patriotic-Ripple-Bag-Crochet-Pattern

Rose Cosmetic Bag
http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet-Bags/Cosmetics-Case-Crochet-Pattern

Striped Square Tote
http://www.freepatternsdonnascrochetdesigns.com/striped-square-tote-free-crochet-pattern.html

Hip Hobo Bag
http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet-Bags/Hobo-Bag-Crochet-Pattern

Beaded Bag
http://suzies-yarnie-stuff.blogspot.com/2008/10/my-beaded-october-bag.html

Ripple Flap Bag
http://crochetme.com/media/p/94679.aspx

A New Idea

2010-07-14T12:15:00.001-06:00

I received a very useful comment from one of my friends so I just had to pass it along.

Sharlene, who is the Queen about Solar Cooking, sent a message about the facecloths that were in the pattern selection the other day.

"Love the washcloths, and, if you make a mini-pocket of the same pattern on one side, you can slip some soap in there! These cloths are great because they have just enough texture to remove dead skin cells without buying expensive lotions or liquids to do the job... " Sharlene

Now how is that for a good idea? I'm glad she read my post that day and left this comment, I just had to share it with everybody. Now the link to her blog is below so stop by and visit her, you will be glad you did.

Solar Cooking For Mainstream Cooks
http://solarcookingathome.blogspot.com/

Christmas In July #7

2010-07-13T22:54:00.000-06:00

Almost everyone needs a scarf during the winter. It is very nice to receive one and it is very nice to be able to sit down and make one so quickly. The answer to the problem of needing quite a few gifts is to make scarves, they are pretty, useful and very warm. So here are just a few patterns for you. I hope you'll be able to use them.

Diamond Lace Scarf
http://www.crochetmagazine.com/newsletters-proofing.php?mode=article&article_id=637

Granny Flair Scarf

http://suzies-yarnie-stuff.blogspot.com/2010/03/special-olympics-granny-flair-scarf.html

Bright Stripe Scarf

http://www.crochetmagazine.com/newsletters.php?mode=article&article_id=516

Reversible Scarf

http://crochetme.com/media/p/94252.aspx

Seed Stitch Scarf

http://suzies-yarnie-stuff.blogspot.com/2007/03/my-april-scarf.html

Christmas In July #6

2010-07-12T13:15:00.001-06:00

Are y'all ready for another set of patterns to checkout? I sure hope so because here they come. *LOL*

Angel Dishcloth
http://promotions.drgnetwork.com/newsletters/talkingcrochet/pages/TCNL2907_patt3.html
Very pretty and very simple to make.

Basketweave Dishcloth
http://www.angelfire.com/oh/crochethook/patts/dish.html
This one is pretty enough to be made for a Facecloth.

Front Post Double Crochet Washcloth
http://mamaclemmons.blogspot.com/2009/02/i-came-up-with-this-washcloth-pattern.html

Simple Washcloth
http://closetomyheart.freeservers.com/facecloth.htm

Crunch Stitch Facecloth
http://sites.google.com/site/gaylewhiteday/crunchstitchwashcloth

Diamond Washcloth
http://littlehouseinthesuburbs.com/2008/11/crocheted-washcloths-23-diamonds.html

Christmas In July #5

2010-07-10T00:38:00.003-06:00

This gift is something that you don't usually think to give to someone but I guarantee it is a gift that is much used and probably much needed.

Bookmarks

Butterfly Bookmark
http://www.crochetmemories.com/archive/april13.html
This is very pretty and actually does look like a butterfly.

Tree Bookmark
http://suzies-yarnie-stuff.blogspot.com/2009/11/suzies-christmas-tree-bookmark.html
To me this one should have beads on it so it would look like a decorated Christmas tree, but that's just my way of thinking.

Fan Bookmark
http://crochetroo.blogspot.com/2006/05/fan-bookmark.html

Heart Bookmark
http://www.jpfun.com/patterns/free/bookmarks/f110004_heartbkmk.shtml
I know it's not Valentines, but this little heart just cries out to me to be made and given to somebody I love. Who knows, you might get it????

Navajo Bookmark
http://www.angelfire.com/oh/crochethook/patts/navajo.html
This one is made just like the afghan is, but I really like this idea.

Heavenly Angel Bookmark
http://www.marloscrochetcorner.com/heavenly%20angel%20bookmark.html

Christmas In July #4

2010-07-07T13:28:00.000-06:00

Well today folks we are going to work on Socks or Bed Slippers. I have become so spoiled to 2 types I will show you today but I hope you can enjoy them all.

Adult Tube Socks
http://www.bevscountrycottage.com/maxines-bed-sox.html
I have really gotten spoiled to wearing these and they are so easy to make.

Rib On Top Socks

http://www.mrsdcrochets.com/RibsOnTopSocks.html

Bev's Easy Slippers

http://www.bevscountrycottage.com/slippers1.html
This is the other pair that I am spoiled to and they are super easy to make.

Basic CrochetedSocks

http://www.canadianliving.com/crafts/crochet/basic_crocheted_socks.php

Christmas In July #3

2010-07-05T00:03:00.001-06:00

Now the patterns today are more my sort of style. I must admit I am very partial to several of these and have made a couple of them several times. I hope you will find some to help you out in your search for gifts. Enjoy !

Denim Vest
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/ccusa-denimVest.html
Needless to say this can be made in any color you choose but I have made mine in dark blue just because blue is my favorite color. Very simple and quick to make.

Perfect Pocketed Shawl
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/80827AD.html?noImages=&r=1
Now this one I have made several times and have not found a color I didn't like yet. I did change the one for my Mother and made it a little wider for her, she really likes to wear it all the time.

Simple Shrug

http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/90689AD.html?noImages=
This shrug is very easy as there is not much shaping to it. It is more of a sweater to me than it is a shrug, but it still works up nicely.

Cozy Shrug

http://www.crochetmagazine.com/newsletters.php?mode=article&article_id=552
This is one that you really want to cuddle up with. I made it out of the softest yarn (don't remember the name) and my Aunt just loved it because she could stay snuggled up all day.

Christmas In July #2

2010-07-02T20:21:00.001-06:00

Is everybody ready for another set of Christmas ideas? Okay, let's go.

Boy's Ninja Gloves
http://www.hookyarnandneedles.com/oldstuff/node/101

These work up very quickly and it is one way to make sure those boys at least try to stay warm.

Camo Backpack
http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet-Bags/Camouflage-Crochet-Pattern-Backpack

This drawstring backpack is good for boys and girls, plus you might find some on your list that would like to have one just to carry around. Of course different colored yarn would help you out if you needed to make several. It could also serve 2 purposes, you could put pj's in there and use it as a gift bag plus overnight bag.

Girls Wrist Warmers

http://crochetkitten.blogspot.com/2009/01/charmed-wrist-warmers.html

These wrist warmers are so very pretty and make a good addition to add that little something else to your gift.

Simple Wrist Warmers

http://qualitycrochet4fun.blogspot.com/2008/02/simple-wrist-warmers.html

If you need another set of wrist warmers here they are. These are a made a little different but just as easy as can be.

Christmas In July #1

2010-07-01T07:00:00.002-06:00

Well, are we all ready to start thinking about Christmas Gifts? Or at least to start making our gift lists? I hope you will be able to find some ideas here that will help you out, needless to say I don't think y'all will be able to finish a bunch of these gifts now. But you will at least be able to bookmark these ideas and then be ready to make them when you have free time.

To start off we are going to come up with some ideas for probably the hardest person to make things for. The men in your life. Whether it is your husband, your father, your son whomever it is, men seem to be the hardest to satisfy. So I am going to give you a few projects to look over and see if there is something you can use, I certainly hope there is.

This first one is for a sweater:
Big Man's Sweater
http://www.angelfire.com/ca2/pappap/RonsSweater.html
This is a very simple pullover with a chest measurement of 56", but of course that can be changed by using a different size hook.

Mens Cardigan

http://wolfcrochet.wordpress.com/2009/10/14/mens-collage-cardigan/
This cardigan is for a mens size 48" chest, and again hook size can be adjusted.

Mens Vest
http://goodtimesithinkso.blogspot.com/2009/10/loving-hands-body-warmer-charity.html
This vest is sized for a 44" chest and again adjust hook for different sizing.

Newsboy Cap

http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet-Hats-Scarves-Gloves/Newsboy-Cap-Crochet-Pattern-from-Red-Heart
This cap is a favorite with the teenager girls as well as boys.

Earflap Cap
http://qualitycrochet4fun.blogspot.com/2009/10/ez-crochet-helmet-pattern.html
This cap is a favorite with all ages, it is amazing what just a little yarn color change can do.

I Am Going Christmas Crazy

2010-06-24T01:26:00.000-06:00

Just to give everybody a little warning, I am going to be doing a Christmas in July series. It will start on July 1st, and there will be a project on here every other day. I am going to show you how I made it or I will give you the link to the page where the project will be listed.

So I hope you will hang in there with me and check in starting July 1st. Most of my ideas are going to be very simple and quickly made so you won't be buried under a ton of hot yarn during July. Naturally you don't have to make them now you can always bookmark them and make them later.

I hope to see you here and I will be talking with you before then. Take care---Hugs!

An iPod Bag

2010-06-22T23:52:00.002-06:00

Well this old lady has finally gotten into the modern era and gotten an iPod. Now mine is one of those that has everything but a bathroom, but the only thing I use it for is to listen to books. While I was in the hospital I really got hooked on audiobooks. A friend of mine, Shirleymac, got me interested in a very special place called Librivox. They have a gazillion books and they are all free. She has also read for them, they ask for people to help out all the time. Now that is something I would love to try, but with my southern Texas accent I don't believe they could use me.

Anyway, the post today is about a very simple little case I crocheted so I could carry my iPod with me, plus there is room in there for my electric plug to hide. Jay laughs at me because it has a pedometer, an alarm clock, a video camera.....but what do I do? I listen to books. The worse part is when I go to bed and listen I make it through about 20 minutes of the story and then I am sound asleep. So why do I even download the whole book? I should just do about 3 chapters.

So anyway, here is a photo of my case and all I did was crochet a long piece then fold the bottom up and stitch the sides then fold the top down to create the flap closure. Trust me this is not rocket science. I will probably make another one in the camo yarn for one of my grandsons, he thinks since his Dad is in the Air Force camo is the only true color there is. Anybody out there wanna swap g-kids????

Tote Things Along

2010-06-15T10:31:00.000-06:00

I made this little tote bag to add to my Christmas present stash. It was such an easy bag to make that I will probably make some more for some of the little girls that live around us here. It is just a simple long pice that is stitched in hdc, then I made some ripple rows on the flap. The handle is made using the Kumihimo Japanese Braiding technique, if you are not familiar with it I have included a YouTube video below that will show how to make one. It is very quick to learn and can be used for many things. So I hope you enjoy it all.

Twin Girls

2010-06-14T22:26:00.004-06:00

I know that most of y'all have heard me talk about another site called Crochet Soiree. We are having several Crochet-A-Longs with some great prizes, we had one in May and in June and the word is that we might have one in July, So if you are not a member of this group you really should think about coming and joining us. Naturally it is free and there are tons of free patterns, tons of videos, and trust me there is a lot of chatting and helping each other when we run into problems of some sort. The link to this site is included below and whenever you get the chance go by and check it out because it is a very friendly place.

Okay now on to my next subject. We have a very nice gentleman that works on the forum boards and helps us out when we don't know how to do something or when we can't find a pattern, Doug always very nicely tells us where everything is or fixes the problem for us. Well, long story short, ( too late, huh?), he just had twin girls on May 8th, and I couldn't decide what to make for them. Then I got sick and so on, and so on..... Finally I finished their little gifts today, they are two 2010 pennies, each inside a crocheted ruffled circle. Pennies as from "Pennies From Heaven" as in the song and of course twin girls are another sort of Heaven, plus 2010 since that is the year of their birth. That is what the photo is below, the color didn't come out quite right but at least my crocheting did. I will be mailing them off to him tomorrow but I just had to show everybody here first. Jay is going to write a little poem for me to enclose with it. I thought these would be cute little things to include with their baby book items and maybe they will cut the threads loose on their 18th birthday and will find an "old" penny inside. After all, an old penny is for Good Luck. 8>)

http://www.crochetsoiree.com

Pretty Square

2010-06-10T15:33:00.000-06:00

This is the square that I was testing for Smooth Fox, which her link is below. I really liked the way it turned out, it is a 12" square made using a size H crochet hook. The pattern is very easy to follow and I can also see stopping about 4 rows back which would make a smaller square, 8" and use that size to make things. I have about a zillion colors of yarn but for some reason I decided to just use these 2, I think I wanted to see what it would look like in simple colors.

So if you get a chance buzz over to her blog and after you read everything in her posts look down the right sidebar where she has lots of free patterns, so go and enjoy yourself.

http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/

I Received A Gift

2010-06-09T00:03:00.002-06:00

A while back a knitting friend of mine that lives near me had her 71st birthday. Naturally her daughter had a great birthday dinner with all the trimings, cake and candles. Although I must admit I was surprised her fire alarm didn't go off with all the candles we had burning. The present I gave her was a large basket filled to the brim with yarn and a new set of bamboo knitting needles. Okay back to my gift.

We all had a good dinner and visit then dessert and we decided we'd better head for home. Well the next day she stopped by and delivered two of the most beautiful discloths you have ever seen and she said she had to make her daughter some after she saw these because she just had a fit for them. I really love the colors of them but I must confess I think I will use them for my face, not those old dirty dishes.

So I just had to show them off to y'all and she keeps saying that she will teach me to knit so I will have something to do on those bad days we get here. I didn't have the heart to tell her my crochet list is so long there is no way I could add another skill in there also.

So if y'all here some rumbling coming from up this way just ignore it 'cause it will just be me....I think I'm going to need a lot of chocolate 8>)

My Latest Ripple

2010-05-31T01:26:00.000-06:00

You know I have discovered that the older I get the more I get trapped into making a design so much that I realize I am hooked on it. No pun intended on the hook part there. That is the way I have become on these round ripple afghans. It always surprises me that I really don't have a color plan when I start it, I just grab one of the skeins and start working. Naturally I know what colors I am going to use I just don't know how many rows of each one and what order they will be used. So long story short (too late for that huh?) I just wanted to show y'all the latest one I had finished, and it is in pink, blue and white. It will sit here in my closet waiting for the call of a baby so it will have a new home, I hope you enjoyed looking at it as much as I enjoyed making it. Okay, brag time is over, now back to work. Have a good day.

Don't You Just Love Them?

2010-05-27T18:04:00.001-06:00

The crocheted African Flowers that is, I certainly do. From the first time I saw this flower I thought, you know with a little bit of color change it could be made to look like a pansy. I'm sure most of you have made several of these and in all color combinations. But that is where my problem comes in, I can't decide which colors I like the best. I wanted to make a tote bag but it seemed like I was getting into an arguement with myself about the colors. Soooo, I think I may just make sort of a patchwork tote and make the last row of the motif all the same color to bind the different colors together. Anyway, the link below is to a tutorial on making this motif and I hope you have better luck than me on your color choices. Take care and enjoy the flowers.

http://heidibearscreative.blogspot.com/2010/05/african-flower-hexagon-crochet-tutorial.html

Ripple Snuggle Sack

2010-05-20T20:22:00.000-06:00

Doesn't this look comfortable? I just love making these because I can see that little baby sleeping so snuggly and warm. Other people may complain about using sleeping bags, remember those camping days? But I always liked sleeping in one because there wasn't any chance of any unwanted "critters' getting in there with me. Naturally you always stay covered up. Wow, somehow I went from making a snuggle sack for a baby to camping out with creepy crawlers ?!&%?? Anyway, the link below is to the pattern that I made above. I make a bunch of them and sent to the Pine Ridge Reservation to help cover up those little ones, it does get cold here and even during the summer its pretty cool at night. So, if you are looking for a neat present for a baby this will fill the bill, plus it is very easy.

Also they are good for little girls to cover up there baby dolls with. Now since we're out camping how about some S'mores???

http://suzies-yarnie-stuff.blogspot.com/2010/03/suzies-ripple-sleep-sack-and-cap.html

Do You Sometimes Need Help?

2010-05-19T12:37:00.000-06:00

Do you ever run across a pattern that includes a stitch that you forgot how to do? Or maybe a friend online asks you how to do something, and you know how, but being able to explain it would be something else. I have these sort of problems all the time. I'm sure it's not my age (?) but nevertheless it still happens. So I have added this particular site to my homepage so it is always handy for me. I think we all know about Crochet Pattern Central, and what a gold mine of information is there. But did you know about this how-to page that is also there? It is full of tutorials, crochet instructions, and many different how-to's. I send lots of people to this site because it is just so helpful. So when you have some time pop over there and take a peek. Oh my, I sure wish I hadn't mentioned "popover" *LOL*

http://www.crochetpatterncentral.com/directory/instruction_directory.php

Bag Pattern--Well Sorta

2010-05-13T15:01:00.001-06:00

I've had some questions about whether or not I could share the pattern to my bag with the public. My answer is YES of course.....as soon as I write one up. I just made this one up as I went along but I am going to try to write it up as best as I can. I have already mailed the bag off to Leisure Arts to be one of their prizes for a CAL we are having at Crochet Soiree for the month of May.

Okay, my finished bag is about 13" wide x 10" tall.

1. I made my foundation chain and then joined it to create a ring. I crocheted 6 rows of hdc working in the round using a cream color.

2. I also chose 5 colors of beads to add to the bag, so at this point I added one row of hdc in 4 of the bead colors,

3. I then worked 5 rows of hdc in the cream color.

4. The next row is where I started to add my beads and I worked 3 hdc between beads.

5. I worked 4 more cream rows then another row of beads.

6. Then 5 rows of hdc in the cream color.

7. Work one row of Shells, then add a row of edging at the top of the shells.

8. 5 more rows of hdc in the cream color, and 1 row of hdc in red.

9. What you should have now is a big crocheted tube. Now you can crochet the bag closed at the bottom and add crocheted handles plus the bag closure of your choice.

10. The way I finished mine. Handles-- Fabric cut 4" wide x 30" long, Bag Lining--measure the length and width of your bag remembering to add 1" to that measurement. 1/2" to form hem at the top and 1/2" for the hem at the bottom. Cut 2 pieces for the lining, sew the ends together to also form a tube that should match the bag tube.

11. Take the handle fabric pieces and fold both outer edges to meet in the center, then fold one more time to the center which will enclose all the raw edges. I stitched down each outside edge of the handles to form them.

12. Pin the handles onto the bag in your place of choice leaving about 1" of handle to be inside the lining. Now take your lining and place it into the bag pinning it in place. I stitched around the top and bottom with my sewing machine. Now working from the inside I pinned the bottom edge closed and sewed it shut. To form the boxed edge shape I turned the bag wrong side out, pinched the bottom corners flat and sewed across the triangle ends.

Turn it right side out and push the corners out to form a squared bottom. Guess what You're through!!

I know this isn't the best instructions and I would have better ones if I had written them while I still had the bag. A big DUH on me!!

I Hit 100!!!!

2010-05-12T22:32:00.000-06:00

No I didn't have a birthday, I reached 100 followers. Isn't that something? When I started my blog I thought how happy I would be if 10 people signed on as followers. I'm sure everybody has had that same feeling when they first started blogging. But I would like to " Thank" everybody that has been patient with me in my learning adventure here, and by doing that I would like to give this crochet book to my 100th person. So I need Erika, who happens to be my 100th person, to email me her address so I can mail this book to her. Again I would like to thank everyone for hanging around and putting up with my goofs as well as my Woo Hoo's. I hope I will be able to entertain y'all for a long time.

Original Bag Lady

2010-05-11T10:36:00.001-06:00

Hi everybody, I don't think our weatherman knows what the month is because we are getting snow one day and then it rains the next. Now I don't know about where you live but most places have snow in the winter and April is known for its showers. Last time I checked this was May, which brings me to the next topic.

On to something a little more fun to talk about. Crocheting. I know you have all heard me chat about Crochet Soiree, it is a great crocheting place for chatting, store for buying things, and free patterns. What more could you ask for? We had a CAL last month and everyone made a scarf using Tamara Gonzaless pattern. Everybody that participated had their name put together and we had 3 names drawn for 3 fantastic prizes. I was lucky, shoot very lucky, to have won the biggest prize. It was Crochet Hooks, 3 balls of yarn, and a Crochet Soiree tote bag. It was the greatest thing I have ever won.

Now for May we are having another CAL, this time. This time we are making a Berry Trivet or Coaster and a Cute Little Kitty, and I have made and donated the bag you see above as one of the prizes. So please join us and have some fun, and enjoy a bunch of chatting along with it. The CAL ends on May 31 so you still have time to enter.

See you there!

http://www.crochetsoiree.com

Giveaway--Giveaway--Giveaway!!!

2010-05-08T00:01:00.000-06:00

Yes, I'm having a giveaway but not on this blog. If you will look in my right sidebar you will see the link to my Book Blog, BOOKWORM. Click on the worm and follow him to my book site, that is where my giveaway is "this time". But keep an eye on this one cause I'm going to have one here pretty soon. Now scat over there and sign up. Bye!

My favorite--Beads or Yarn???

2010-05-02T16:01:00.000-06:00

I used to do a great deal of beadwork and I have always sewn and crocheted but what was my favorite thing? I honestly have no idea. But I do know that I love to crochet and add beads in there also. The photo above is just another gift for my trunk of things. The scarf is made from Lion Brand Suede yarn and I used a 'J' hook, it is 4" wide x 50" long. I love working with this yarn, it is so soft and cuddly feeling, I am sure I will make more items using it.

It's made with just a simple double crochet so it can't get any easier than that. I'm sure I'll make another one and who knows what color it will be. But I'll be sure to post a photo of it. Enjoy.

Baby Blanket Finished

2010-04-29T17:15:00.000-06:00

I finally finished another ripple baby blanket and this one goes to a new baby boy to match his room. I am still in love with these afghans no matter how many I have made. They are just so relaxing to me is one reason I think I enjoy making so many. But now on to my next project, but I just had to brag a little bit and show everybody a photo of it.

Button, Button, Who's Got The Button?

2010-04-27T22:54:00.000-06:00

You know when we make our crocheted items we then rack our brain trying to find just the perfect button to go on it. Now sometimes that is an easy thing to do but then sometimes....we are stuck trying to find just the perfect one. Well this link below will show you how to make a certain kind of button called the Dorset Button. These buttons go way back to the 18th century in Dorset, England. The link will tell you what they were made of long ago and what they are made of today. Plus there is a great tutorial so you are able to make your own. If you do make some please post a photo so we can all enjoy them. Good luck.

http://www.craftstylish.com/item/42688/how-to-make-dorset-buttons

Starburst Hotpad

2010-04-26T22:46:00.001-06:00

I just love the look of this round square (is there such a thing?). Actually you make 5 motifs and then assemble them and the above creation is what you end up with. I love the thread she used but I could see me making the last row in each motif a different color. The link below is to the pattern. You know me, I have to mess it up someway. I think that is the way I am going to make mine. If it turns out good I will show everybody, but if it turns out awful I am going to smile and say I just haven't had the time to make one yet. Y'all trust me don't cha???

http://www.crochetmemories.com/archive/lorettasstarbursthotpad.html

Do you like Teddy Bears?

2010-04-20T00:38:00.000-06:00

I am a sucker for a doll or a teddy bear. There's no way around it, doesn't matter that I am a Grandma, I still like dolls and bears. I have one little 5 yr. old g-daughter, the other g-kids are getting too big for little toys, darn it, so Avery gets stuck with whatever I make whether she likes it or not. So she is getting this Teddy Afghan for Christmas this year and I got to thinking that maybe it wouldn't hurt if I got started on it now, you know just to be on the safe side so it would be finished in time for Christmas. The link below has the pattern for it and it really is very simple. But I must admit I do have one problem, Avery's favorite colors are pink and purple. I could see a pink bear but I'm not so sure about pink and purple, but that is what she likes so that is what she'll get. I hope you have better colors choices than I do. Enjoy

http://www.angelfire.com/ca2/Jeanaries/Teddyghans.html

Are you looking for a Christmas item?

2010-04-18T15:09:00.000-06:00

No, I haven't gone bonkers, I work on gifts all year long and just happened upon this Snowflake Doily and decided i must make it. The pattern works up to be 9 1/2" across which is not a huge doily and to me it will be just the right size. I think I am going to do mine in white for the base and blue for the other part. I'm also going to see if I can work up one that will be about 3-4" across which can be used as a coaster or something that can be tied onto a gift. The link to the pattern is below and yes I know you're not in the mood to make Christmas items but....it will be here before you know it and since I am so slow I am going to keep working on it now. So at least go take a look and maybe bookmark it just in case.

http://www.crochetnmore.com/snowflakedoily.htm

A cup of tea anyone?

2010-04-15T23:28:00.003-06:00

I have a dear friend here online that collects tea pots, actually she has over 200 of them. I would say that's a pretty good collection wouldn't you? Anyway, when I saw this pattern I thought this one is just crying out her name. She is just one of the sweetest and nicest people in the world. There is always a good word or a pick me up phrase coming out of her mouth and there is a smile right behind it. She has only been crocheting about one year but she has done some fantastic work and I am so proud to call her my friend. I suppose I should tell you her name, wouldn't that be nice?

She is Barbara Moore from Moore Whimsies at http://barbara-moorewhimsies.blogspot.com/ so when you have time pop over there and visit for awhile. The link below is to the pattern for the tea cosy pictured above. I thought it was just so pretty, I hope you like it too, and remember that Mother's Day isn't far off.

http://megan.cc/RosyCosy/

Do You Like The Space At The End Of The Rows?

2010-04-13T12:49:00.001-06:00

I don't know about y'all but I hate the hole that my ch 2 or ch 3 creates when I start a new row. Then I found this video that fixes that problem for me. It took a little while for me to do it smoothly but now this is the only way I work it. I must admit I still do it the old way when I am changing colors, hopefully I will figure out how to do it this way soon. Anyway, I hope you enjoy watching this and will at least give it a try sometime. One hint, it is very important that you hold onto the large loop with your finger like it shows, if you let go of it...you're done for.

Okay, I must go and work on my scarf from the CAL over on Crochet Soiree. We are using one of Tamara Gonzales new patterns and we have until April 30 to finish it, so there really isn't a big rush. For the ones that post a finished photo of their scarf your name goes into the drawing for some fantastic prizes. There still is plenty of time so when you have a minute stop by the link below and join us, we have so much fun and lots of chit chat. Come join in.

http://www.crochetsoiree.com

A Rose By Any Other Name

2010-04-11T13:58:00.000-06:00

I received an email from an old blog friend of mine, she was trying to find her pattern for the Two layered Irish Rose, but she had lost it or something. So she wanted to know if I would send her a copy of my pattern....sure, if I could find it. My filing system is the pits to put it mildly, but I started digging through bookmarks. I found some really interesting things in there, it's kinda like going through all those boxes you had from when you were in High School and seeing all those old memories come to life. Alright, where was I, oh yea, anyway I found my two favorite sites for roses so since Velda needed them I thought I might as well share them with everybody else. After all Mother's Day is not too far off and maybe you might need a whole bouquet of flowers. Have fun looking through them, but don't worry they don't have any thorns.

http://crochet.about.com/library/n030803.htm

http://www.crochetpatterncentral.com/directory/roses.php

Crocheting Or Quilting?

2010-04-07T19:22:00.001-06:00

The block above is known in the quilting world as a Log Cabin Block, so I decided maybe I should make one for the crochet world also. It made up very quickly and I am pleased with how it looks, I think I will name it a Crocheted Log Square. For a quilt block the center is generally red to represent the fire in the fireplace, then the strips on one half are light colors and the other half are dark colors. This represents the light of the fire and the shadow of the fire. It is very easily made:

1. Center square-(Red) ch 10, work in sc for approx. 5 rows. The object is to crochet a square so your tension may be different than mine so just keep making rows until you have a square. End off yarn.

2. Light strip-(Yellow) connect your yarn into the last row of red just made, work in sc across row, work 3sc in last sc of row to create a corner, work in sc along the side of the square. When you reach the last st ch 3 and turn. Work in sc making one st in each st, 3 sc in center st at corner, continue in sc to end. Continue working until you have made 4 rows, each time making 3sc in center sc of previous row.

3. Dark Strip-(Turquoise) connect yarn into the end of yellow section, sc across the yellow section and across the red square. When you reach the red corner work 3sc in same st, then continue in sc across the other side of the square and the other end of the yellow stripe. Continue in sc rows until you have made 4 sc rows with 3 sc in corner in the center st.

4. Light Stripe-(Pink) connect pink yarn into the end of the turquoise strip and work in sc across, then across the yellow, work 3 sc in corner st, continue in sc across the other side of the yellow and the end of the turquoise. Continue working until you have 4 sc rows done with 3sc in corner.

5. Dark Stripe-(Purple) connect purple yarn into the end of pink strip, sc across the pink section and the turquoise, then work 3sc in corner, then continue in sc across the other turquoise side. Continue until you have made 4 sc rows done with 3sc in corner.

Now this square ends up being 7" with me using an "H" hook, naturally you can use whatever size hook or yarn you want so that you can achieve the size square you would like.

RAK

2010-04-01T00:47:00.002-06:00

Is everyone familiar with RAK? It stands for Random Act of Kindness, and let me tell you we have a busy bunch of them over on Crochet Soiree. We have all agreed to go on our page and put items we would like to have in our Stash category file. Then if anyone decides they would like to give you a gift "just because" they can go look through your Stash and see if they want to choose something from there or they can get an idea of the type of things you like.

Let me tell you I have been so blessed with gifts it is unbelievable. I received a thread crochet book that has 50 square motifs in it, a beautiful wood handled size 7 steel crochet hook, 2 of the Crochet Lite hooks, and it goes on and on. But let me tell you about the latest one I have received.

Yes it is the doily pictured above, isn't that just the most beautiful thing ever? First off, I love hearts, so do you see all the hearts all around it? Plus do you know how much time it took to make this? I was just stunned when I opened this package. I would love to know who made this because I would really like to thank her.

So I am going to make a guess here and see if I am right or not. We have an extremely talented lady at Crochet Soiree that is a crochet designer, she creates unbelievable things and so graciously shares them with everyone. Her name is Tamara Gonzales, and I just have a hunch that this doily is from her. So if I am right and she wants to claim the fame that would be great, but if she wants to stay quiet I understand. Regardless of who made it I love it. You see there are 36 hearts in this doily and my husband and I have been married 36 years, so you see I feel there is a special connection with this doily. I am going to frame it and hang it here beside my computer. Maybe some of her talent will rub off on me. I can at least dream can't I?

Potholder, Dishcloth, Or Purse??

2010-03-31T14:12:00.004-06:00

Do you have a little girl that would like a cute purse? I have a 5 yr. old g-daughter that I hope to get one finished for, I will post a photo...if it's decent! You know we see so many of these cute little dresses as potholders and to go on our bottles of dishwashing liquid, but I would never have thought to make it a purse. i am so glad there are so many smart people out there. Cathy at Cats-Rockin-Crochet did this darling project and she has fixed up a fantastic tutorial for all of us to see exactly how she made it. Her instructions are so very clear, you will love it. You will have time to get one or two or ???? made before Easter so it will match that little ones dress. Of course, my g-daughter is going to want to use it as her Easter Basket, she's just a little hard-headed? Wonder where she gets it? Oh, well, on to the important things, the link below will take you to Cathy and her instructions and tutorials and the photo on the left is just "one" that she has there. The photo on the right is one that Tina from Beansie Babbles made for Valentines. So off you go and off I go to get back to work. Take care my friends, and remember to smile.

http://cats-rockin-crochet.blogspot.com/2008/02/crochet-dress-bag-pattern.html

Bright Triangle Square

2010-03-28T22:18:00.002-06:00

Well, here is my bright triangle square, so what do you think? I love it, I am doing better about getting out of my comfort zone of just using pastel colors. The dark color is purple, it is sorta hard to see in this photo, I am so glad that it is made all at once because I would hate to have to sew all these pieces together. I think I am really going to have to make a small blanket out of this type of square, in my free time of course?????

Have any of y'all ever wondered where I spend a lot of my crochet time? Well it's at a place called Crochet Soiree, I think I might have mentioned it on here before, but if you've never been there you are most definitely missing a treat. I honestly don't know how many members are on there but it is in the thousands and talk about a friendly and sharing place, this is it. We have friendly people here in blogland but at Crochet Soiree there are so many things to read, places to shop, lessons, free patterns, and the list just keeps going. As a matter of fact we are starting a CAL Scarf project on April 5, we are using a pattern designed by Tamara Gonzales, and no don't ask me what color mine will be because it is a secret....even from me!! We are all excited to see what everyone's scarf will look like since we are all using the same pattern what is going to catch our eye is going to be our color combinations.

You know what I just thought of? Why don't some of you come over and join in the fun? There is no entry fee and you will have a good time I promise. Oh wait, I'm wrong, there is an entry fee. It's a photo of your finished scarf so we can all ooooh and aaaaah over it, now that's not too much to ask is it? The link to Crochet Soiree is below, all you have to do is click on it and come visit and I promise you that you will be impressed. See you there!

http://www.crochetsoiree.com/

Four Triangle Square

2010-03-26T14:14:00.007-06:00

http://undisthreadness.blogspot.com/2007/04/four-triangles-square.html

Isn't this a neat square? I got the pattern from the site that I shared with y'all yesterday. The link above is to the page where down on the right side you will find it listed as Four Triangle Square. It is surprisingly easy to do even though just by looking at it I thought, Oh boy I'm gonna get a headache out of this one!! But not so, as a matter of fact I am making another one right now, well not as I type I'm not that good. When I first saw this square I thought about making it in coordinating colors, so I did. But then when I couldn't go to sleep last night, I thought of a million different color combinations, and came up with some good ideas. Like the one I making now each triangle is a different color, deep purple, yellow, bright green, and ? That is where I took a break to write this post. The last color may be red or turquoise, or something else, I never know what I'm going to do, I just sort of jump in the middle and go.

One of the things I thought I would make is a small blanket like maybe 24" square, which would be 16 of these squares. In each one I would make each triangle a different color, bear with me on this 'cause sometimes my ideas sound pretty goofy. Okay, so we have all these different colors and the shapes of triangles and squares, now I'm an old pre-k teacher, so I wanted to make this and take it to my old school so the kids can practice shapes and colors. I used to have them play a game about putting huge washers on certain colors and shapes on a quilt that I had made. They had a blast playing that because they could take their shoes off and be real fast. When I left the school I gave the quilt to them to go to the other children.

Anyway, here I go rambling again so I guess I'd better end this and get back to my square. I hope you all have a great weekend and good weather to go along with it.

Over 10,000 Crochet Patterns

2010-03-25T18:17:00.001-06:00

My friends, how many of you have no WIP's? You are all caught up with your to-do list? Then you are allowed to go to the site mentioned below. The rest of us are going to have to wait until we reach that point. Like that is ever going to happen for me....I'm going there NOW! Have any of you been to CraftFreely? It is a heaven here on earth for crocheters. But don't give up knitters because they have a whole section for you, over 9,000 patterns. This site is one of the most organized places I have ever been to, this has been done all by one person. She has the category Name and then the number of patterns in that section. After reading through this I realized how messy my bookmarks are, so don't even ask about my living room. So here is the link to this heavenly place. Get yourself a snack and something to drink and sit back and go through some of these and just have some fun. I'm going back to it, bye!

http://www.craftfreely.com/free-crochet-patterns/patterns.cfm

Stitch Markers---Crochet Or Knit???

2010-03-22T21:14:00.000-06:00

I love stitch markers and there are some gorgeous ones out in blogland but....Do you understand the difference in ones used for crochet and ones used for knitting? Some of you probably do but just in case you don't I thought I would show some and give the link to her tutorial so you can make your own. In case you haven't learned it by now, I am big on tutorials. I am one of those people that if you tied my hands I wouldn't be able to say a word, my hands flutter around just as fast as my jaws flap. Okay, y'all go put that rope back. 8>) For me the difference is that markers for knitting need to have a ring at the top so you can slide it onto your knitting needle to mark the spot between two stitches. For crochet, you need to have one that opens because you actually connect it into a stitch to mark your place. Now the first photo and link are to a great site and Debb does a very good photo tutorial and tells you everything you might possibly need and exactly how to make some like in her photo. Please go by and check hers out, she is a really talented lady and don't forget to make a stop by her Etsy Store.

http://crochetoholic.blogspot.com/2007/04/how-to-make-beaded-stitch-markers.html

Now the safety pin marker in the above photo is one that I made for my crocheting. Not a gorgeous item but you know what...it works. All I did was use pliers and separate the coil at the bottom of the pin, then slide on several seed beads, close the coil up again, and you're done. Now when you open the pin the beads cannot come off because they are on the other side of the coil. Got it? I make these all the time and usually put about 6 in a small plastic bag to keep in my purse and then hand them out to crocheters I meet. It isn't a fantastic gift but it really is a useful one. So now you know everything I know about making markers, well almost....I go to garage sales and pick up old earrings and jewelry and then I take them all apart and.......

Buttons and Hot Pads

2010-03-17T23:20:00.001-06:00

Isn't this a cute creation? It is from the Crochet World newsletter Talking Crochet. I have included the link to the pattern below, it is the Crochet World link. I just love these little medallions, they take no time to make and there are so many color possibilities. Since blue is my favorite color of course I would love this one, but the one I am going to make is going to be of all bright colors. I am trying so hard to break out of my box and use others colors, I am hoping I can change my ways and not be an old stick in the mud and keep using the same colors all the time. I can just see it in colors of a spring fashion.

Although the name says this is a Bachelor Button Rug, I think I will use it on a shelf sort of the same way I would use a doily. Well, on to another project.

http://www.crochet-world.com/newsletters/talkingcrochet/pages/TCNL1809_patt2.html

Now this photo shows two hotpads that to me are made in a very striking pattern, the link to its instructions can be found below. I just think they are so very pretty and would make up in so many color combinations. I do think it is attractive in the fact that they only use two colors which I think really emphasizes the pattern even more. I think these are going to be on my Christmas Gift list, but they are just too pretty to use!!

http://www.crochetmemories.com/archive/misc9.html

Crocheted Bead Necklace Or ???

2010-03-13T17:25:00.000-07:00

I know that there are quite a few of us that already know how to crochet using beads. But this is a different way of doing it. This way you wind up with a long strand of almost a beaded rope, now this can be used as a necklace, bracelet or even handles for some of your crocheted or fabric bags. This video shows really well the procedure, or at least I think it does because I could actually understand it. So I hope it will help some of you out there and you will at least give it a try. Even though it does take on the appearance of a rope, don't get carried away and make a jump rope okay?

Do These YoYo's Bounce Back To You?

2010-03-11T23:12:00.005-07:00

Isn't this a pretty square? It is from Chris's blog, and I have added the link to it below, she has a photo of it on her blog and a link to a very good pattern for it. This really is a way to use up all those tiny bits of yarn that you have left over. It only takes 10 feet of yarn to make one yoyo, and you only need to make 16 of them to create this 12" square, now isn't that something? Needless to say you can use less so that would create a smaller square. About the time you start on one of these you are finished with it. This would really be a good carry around project, just make some yarn bobbins, wind your yarn and you are set to go. I think it would be fun to choose the colors that will go in one square to coordinate with each other, but then again I think if they were contrasting that would be pretty also. Oh, all the combination ideas would just be so much fun to try. I sat down and cut out my bobbins, then I cut my yarn and went on and wrapped the bobbins and put them all into a bag that went into the car today so I would have them handy for those "just in case" times. Yes, I remembered my hook and the blue yarn to sew them together with. Now if you are not familiar with yarn bobbins or don't know how to make your own, I have included one of Teresas' great videos of how to make some and then she shows you how to wrap the yarn onto it. She is just so talented it is amazing. I have also made some out of milk jug plastic, but my hands have gotten to where I can't hold that as well as I can the cardboard, so keep an eye out because you might find something that works better for you. Of course you can buy the ones that they use for embroidery floss but I am too cheap, I'd rather spend my money on yarn. Okay, I will quit chatting now and let you watch the video or go check out the pattern. So have fun, because I am going to. 8>)

http://yarncrazy.blogspot.com/2009/05/simple-yoyo-square.html

For Your Face Or The Dishes?

2010-03-05T15:22:00.002-07:00

I know we have all seen these Tawashis or Spiral Scrubbies all over the internet but in this video this lady really explains it well and shows exactly how to make them. I'm sure most of you have seen Judith Pringle's blog about these and her photos are also great, as a matter of fact it is referred to in this tutorial. These are usually made out of cotton and they are so very soft whether you are washing dishes or taking a bath. They make great items to add into a basket with some bubble bath to then give as a gift. So if you haven't used one of these yet give this video a try and make one, then you'll find out they are like M & M's, you can't have just one.

Is it a Quilt Or A Crocheted Afghan?

2010-03-04T13:25:00.000-07:00

Well, the answer to the above question is Yes. It is a crocheted afghan made of squares that are then arranged in quilt patterns. Sounds difficult doesn't it? It probably would be if we had to do all the figuring for ourselves but we are lucky enough to have The Happy Yellow House to turn too. Cara has done all the work and figuring for us and trust me, it was a lot of work. Plus she is sweet enough to make all her patterns free to everyone, can you believe it? Wait until you see her work, it is just awesome, she also has many other items and again the patterns are free, the photo below is one that I just love. Of course I am a sucker for hearts so it stands to reason I would love it. I have included a link to her Yellow House so make sure you stop by and browse through her designs, I promise you that you will go WOW! Take care.

http://happyyellowhouse.com

Hairpin Lace Blanket

2010-03-01T11:09:00.002-07:00

I'm sure you have all heard me talking about the blanket I have been working on, well I finished it Saturday. So naturally I had to put it on here for all to see and to prove that I really did finish it ! In the one photo is just a section of the blanket, my color is not very well but the strips are pink and brown. The other photo I wanted to show a close up so you could see that the center is only a sc and the strips are joined by pulling 3 loops of one color through 3 loops of the other color. There are several ways to join these strips to produce different styles of items. To create a "wavy" appearance, you can take 10 loops and do 5 sc through them, then *take 2 loops and make one sc through those* repeat from * to * 4 more times. You should have one large group with 10 loops and 5 groups with 2 loops in each, so therefore that creates the wave effect. Anywaaaaay, this is a simple project to make and the end result is very impressive, so watch the video below to see how to start it. This video is from YouTube and I think she did a great job with it. In my post using the Hook Lite I am working with my loom so you might take a look at that also. I hope you enjoy the movie !

Remember Way Back When We Had Wooden Sewing Spools?

2010-02-24T02:12:00.002-07:00

I remember playing with these as a child so I would stay out of trouble while Mother sewed. Well, she didn't have enough spools because I was always into something. Anyway, how many of you had Daddy put in small nails or like mine wooden pegs? This was the first way I learned to do any type of handwork, I learned to crochet at 8 but I think Mother was trying to see how serious I was about it so she started me off on this. Do you remember making snakes? What about all those potholders? I made things for my dolls and just all sorts of goofy things. All this is leading up to the fact that it surprises me how there is this "new" idea on the market. They are called by all sorts of names but one of my daughters gave me this one called a French Knitting Bee, called that because it is colored to look like a bee. While I was wondering around in blogland I ran across this flower that is made from "I-cords", it is at the site linked here. I suppose like they say everything that is old will come back around in fashion someday. I wonder where I put my poodle skirt???

http://www.pompomemporium.com/

Lite Crochet

2010-02-22T13:26:00.002-07:00

No, I'm not talking about "diet" crocheting, I don't say words like that. Okay, seriously now. I have had 5 eye surgeries so I sometimes have trouble seeing my crocheting especially if I am using dark thread. I had heard about these hooks that have a lite in the hook section so you can see better, but I was afraid it was just a goofy idea. Boy was I wrong! I got a size H hook and went to work. I could not believe #1 how comfortable it was too hold. It is a flat hook with a rubber thumbhold, so there's no more rolling off the table onto the floor, right? Also the light turn on switch, and I mean small, is on the side not under your hand. If you hold the hook like a pencil the switch doesn't even touch your hand and if you hold it like a knife (like I do), it is way down at the end of your hand. So there is no way the switch is going to be in anybodys way. Now one thing else I thought about was, "Do I have to use the light all the time?" Of course you don't. Some smart person figured out to make the hook section clear so the light would shine through easy but if it is the daytime and light colored yarn you can still see very well without using the light. Okay all my problems questions were answered so it was time to get to work.

I LOVE it, the hook itself is very comfortable to hold and to work with. I was not clumsy with it like I was concerned about. The light was not glaring, it would shine down onto my working area and nowhere else, but if I had dropped something onto the floor it also worked as a mini flashlight.

I have included a link to a group that I belong to called Crochet Soiree, it is a fantastic crochet group but that's an understatement. It is a whole crochet universe, they have everything you could possibly think of plus some items you probably have never thought of. They sell these hooks so the link I've included here will take you right to their store and where these hooks are located. I purchased a size H hook because that was what I needed for this project, but trust me I am going to purchase several more sizes. Oh, I almost forgot about the batteries. It uses 3 tiny flat button style batteries but I was worried that maybe this would only last me about one hour and then burn out. Wrong! I do not know how long they will last but i used mine yesterday about 4-5 hours and it is still bright today. So I am sold on it. Jay took some photos so maybe you can get an idea of what it looks like, I hope you can see it good enough. I am working with brown yarn and it really helped me.

http://www.crochetsoiree.com/shop/hooks-n-needles/_crochet_lite%20hook_/

I'm not saying this hook is for everyone.....just for those that want to keep a better eye on what they are doing, like me. I forgot to tell you a little bit about Crochet Soiree, it is such a neat crochet place. We all get together and chat about what we are working on or what we are stuck on, and the others on there are ever so nice in offering help or suggestions and if they don't know the answer they can usually suggest someone that does. Most of us all turn to Tamara Gonzales, she is just a whiz at crochet and very nicely lets us know the way that works best for her or explains what the instructions mean when we can't understand all the jibberish. I'll have to keep you up to date on her because she has a crochet book coming out in the spring of this year. But you know what? Why don't you come join us and you will be able to keep an eye out for yourself plus meet a big group of very nice people get free patterns and free help when needed.

Yes, come visit us and become one of the gang just click here:

http://www.crochetsoiree.com/

Hooded Snow Scarf

2010-02-21T19:01:00.003-07:00

Yes that's me being crazy out in the snow, actually I am on my way to the car and my goofy husband decided to take a photo of me. But that's not what this post is about, aren't you glad? I am wearing the hooded scarf that I made several months ago, and I really love it.

Basically it is just a long wide scarf that is folded in half, then from the point of the fold, I sewed a seam down about 11" which forms the hood. The rest of the length is then wrapped around your neck and it really keeps the cold air from blowing in on you. Nothing great but gosh is it nice. I made this one all in different shades of blue worsted weight yarn and I stitched it using a hdc, which is fast but it is a tight enough stitch to keep out the wind.

It also is one of those projects that doesn't take a lot of thinking, it is the same row after row, which makes it easy as a drag along project or something that you can just pick up and do a little bit now and then. Here is the link to the pattern.

http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/cwes-scarves.html

This also is cute for the little ones, we have several little girls that live near us and I made a bunch of caps and scarves for Christmas for them. They have already asked if they could get them for Christmas this year, so I have decided they will get these Hooded Scarfs so they can keep up with them better. I think I've created monsters.

Debs Crochet

2010-02-20T06:55:00.004-07:00

Debbie over at Debs Crochet has so nicely passed this Sunshine Award along to 12 lucky people and guess what....I was one of the 12!! I am so tickled I can hardly sit here and type, and there is another good part. I get to pass it on to 12 other great blogs, now how neat is that? So I now am going to have to decide on those blogs out of so many of you great people, this will be hard but here is my list and some of the guidelines that you need to do when you accept this award.

The Sunshine Blog Award is awarded to bloggers whose positive and creativity inspires others in the blog world. The rules for accepting the award are:

1. Put the logo on your blog or within your post.

2. Pass the award to 12 bloggers.

3. Link the nominees within your post.

4. Let them know they received this award by commenting on their blog.

5. Share the love and link to the person from whom you received this award.

1. Armina at arminas_animals

2. Barb at barbs_creations

3. Kelly at bella_bambina

4. Pattie at blissfully_domestic

5. Paula at confessions_of_a_crochet_pattern_slut

6. Faye at crochet_by_faye

7. April at dishcloth_diaries

8. Debra at hooks_and_yarn

9. Karen at karens_garden_of_colors

10. Azbelle at sunflowerzcrochet

11. CraftyBegonia at crafty_begonia

12. Bethel at bethel_of_bethania

crocheting my best with my worsted

Sorry Folks

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