Favourite Cardigan

My Favourite knitting pattern by Georgie Nicolson.

This truly is one of my favourite knitted 

cardigan patterns.  

I came across this three years ago and fell in love with it. I found it on Ravelry as a paid pattern.  You can knit it in a size range of 28 - 60 inch chest.

Knitted from the yoke downwards, including a couple of bands of easy lace patterning.  The rest in stocking stitch.

I opted for a shorter sleeve length, but kept the body length the same.

I just happened to have in my yarn stash enough yarn to complete it.  I knitted it in DK/8ply wool yarn.  I can't tell you the brand, but the colour was 'Nectarine'; that I do remember.

Loved how it turned out.  I wear it often. 

Link to pattern on Ravelry:

My Favourite

Basket Weave Beanie

Crochet:

The Basket Weave stitch has become very popular, and is widely used for hats, scarves, blankets, afghans and dishcloths.  A great all rounder pattern. 

Here I have used it for a beanie.  The size is very adaptable.  I have completed this one in a child's size.  It is worked from the crown down.

I came across this pattern on YouTube.com 

Here is the link to the video I followed:

Basket Weave Hat

Stepping Texture Hat

Crochet

This is a lovely hat to crochet.  I have made it in a baby size.  The pattern given is for an adult size.  But I found it easy to convert to different sizes, as along as you have the correct stitch count for the repeat pattern. 

I first found it on YouTube by the Crochet Crowd; where Mikey gives clear instructions as you follow him along.
Here is the link to the video: 

Crochet Stepping Texture Hat

and here is the link to the free pattern:

The Crochet Crowd

 

Donation Hats

This Winter I have been busily crocheting hats/beanies as donations to the local thrift shops, hoping they will help some families keep their kids warm.

Here are some of the hats/beanies that I have crocheted for the donation box mainly using up leftover yarn from previous projects.  

There are plenty of free patterns on the internet that you can download or watch on YouTube.  They only take a hour or so to complete.  Great for working on during the evening whilst watching TV.  



If you can crochet even just the basic stitches you could make one of these.  And believe me once you have made one, you won't stop there. 

Here is a link to a video I created for the Crochet Ribbed Beanie.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G47JafiR0go

Very easy to work.

So why don't give it a try....

Crochet Baktus Scarf

Here I have been working on a Baktus Scarf, following a YouTube video by Oana on 'Oana's Crochet Channel'.  I had to watch it several times as english is her second language but I got there in the end.  I was very pleased with the result.  I only used some cotton yarn left over from another project but was very pleased with the result.  

 

















I loved how the edging was worked in with the pattern and not added after completion.  Just makes sense doesn't it?  Oana has many tutorials but she doesn't give a written pattern; so you have to follow her videos step by step.

The main body stitch is the 'Crossed Double Crochet Stitch'.  Very easy to achieve and looks very effective.  I intend to go ahead and purchase some suitable yarn now that I am familiar with the pattern.  And as it is winter here in NZ it will be much appreciated.

This is a link to her channel.  I strongly suggest you check her out.
Oana's Crochet Channel  

'Spring Surprise' baby afghan

I have been working on a fabulous baby afghan called 'Spring Surprise' from a book named Circular Baby Afghans by Rebecca Leigh.  

This is intended for special Spring baby.

Loving the pattern.

Finally finished this 'Spring Surprise' baby afghan for a special baby due in October. Very pleased with it.  This is the first time I have followed a written pattern such as this.  Obviously had to concentrate.  I ripped back a couple of rows on the way, but it was so worth it.  The book I have had in my cupboard for more than a few years.  I assume it is still available.  But it is well worth seeking it out.  There are some great patterns in it.  All are circular.

 

A Hat With Love

 
Tried this pattern out after watching a video by Bobwilson123 called Made With Love. Far easier that I thought. You can find the free pattern and tutorial at: http://www.myhobbyiscrochet.com/…/a-hat-with-love-free-croc…

 I found this to be an easy pattern to follow.  I have only followed a graph pattern a couple of times before and found this to be easy.  But, I might add that is best to read all the instructions and work your way through the pattern in your head before starting it. Familiarise yourself with the graph.  I really hope you give it a try.

 MILE A MINUTE 
  crochet baby blanket

This is such an easy project to make.  Honestly sooo simple.  There are many variations of pattern on the internet. You can make this to any size you want.  These two blankets were approx 30" square for a crib sized blanket.  Having two colours to compliment each other really makes it stand out.  The lemon and white was just the two colours, but the lilac variegated and white really made it pop.  It is an ideal project to work on whilst watching tv or traveling.

 
Materials:
DK/8ply yarn
200grams white
100grams contrasting colour
4mm crochet hook
Shell pattern: 3dc, 2ch, 3dc

1. With the white yarn ch 9
2. Into 6th ch work the shell stitch (dc 3, 2 ch, dc3) ch 3. Skip 2 ch and into last remaining ch slip st to join up. 3 ch and turn your work so that you are working into the bottom chains (upside down)
3. Work a shell stitch (dc 3, 2 ch, dc3). 1 dc into 3rd ch.  Ch3, turn your work.
4. Repeat the shell pattern for 45 rows or (as many rows as you require for you blanket). 
5. To give the strip a border in the contrasting colour join at a convenient place and ch3.  Work in dc all around the strip working extra dc's at the points of the strip.

When you have worked 10 strips with the contrast yarn or (as many as you require for your project) Join the strips with the white yarn in a sc join.  Here are two video clips that will demonstrate firstly a  flat single crochet join and then one that I used for preference.

(link to)
Flat Single Crochet Join 

(link to)
 BUBBLE POP crochet stitch blanket
(with single crochet join my way)

When all strips are joined as one piece work a dc border around all four sides working multiple dc's at the corners and points.  This gives the blanket a lovely finish.

Enjoy!

yours in stitches....

BUBBLE POP crochet stitch

Baby Blanket

This crochet stitch is a variation of the Crunch Stitch.  It produces an effect very similar to the Puff Stitch, Bobble Stitch, Popcorn Stitch, Raspberry Stitch, but is much simpler to produce.  Sooo easy!

The stitches you need to know are the chain st (ch), single crochet (sc) and treble (tr).  Every other stitch in one row is a single crochet (sc) followed by a treble (tr) stitch, and every other row is in single crochets (sc).

Lets get started.
Use any thickness of yarn and hook size to match the weight: depending on the project you have in mind.

Work a chain in multiples of two.

1. Into the first chain work 1 single crochet (sc).  Then work the rest of the chain length in single crochets (sc).  (This produces a sturdy baseline to work on). Chain 1 (ch1) and turn your work.
2. *Single crochet (sc) into the first stitch. One treble (tr) into the next stitch*.  Repeat the stitch sequence ** to the end of the row ending with 1sc into the last stitch.  1ch and turn your work.
3. Work sc's into all of the stitches to the end of the row.
4. Rows 2 & 3 form the pattern and are to be repeated to the length of the project you desire.
5. When you reach the length of work you desire finish off with row 3 (sc). This will balance out with the beginning row.  With the sc stiches at the beginning and end of each row you will have a good base to work a border around if so desired.

Notes:

As you work the treble stitches alongside the single crochet stitches a small 'Bubble' will form to the back of the work.  This is correct.  By ensuring you work a single crochet stitch at the beginning and end of each row your bubbles will lie on top of one and other creating a very uniform pattern. Reminds me of bubble wrap.  You just want to pop them!

My blanket is for a crib size.  I have used DK yarn and 4.00mm hook.  I chained 34 resulting in 16 bubbles in the bubble row and I worked 15 bubble rows plus ended with a sc row.  I worked a contrasting border of sc.  Working 3 sc into the corners. My blanket consists of 12 eight inch squares before adding the border. Once all joined a final sc border in contrasting yarn.

I joined the squares using a single crochet method that I reconfigured to what I prefer.  I prefer my joins to be central and remain upright.  The method demonstrated in the 2nd link is a flat sc join, and tends to lean to one side.  In the 1st link I have demonstrated my version of SC joining which I much prefer.  It adds dimension and ensures the ridge formed lies central and not to one side.  I will put links to both methods below. 

I hope this post will help those that are a little challenged with the regular Bobble/Puff stitch.  This method is so much easier and fast to work up.  I hope you have fun with it.

BUBBLE POP crochet stitch video link
If you just want to view the Dimensional SC Join then fast forward the video to 5.05 mins.

Flat Single Crochet Join

by Web's America's Yarn Store

Crochet Eight Petal Coaster

Crochet Eight Petal Coaster
These make great coasters.  Use a coarser choice of yarn. When completed stiffen with a 50/50 mix of crafting paste and water. Soak, squeeze out the excess and block it into shape. Let it dry naturally. Super easy.  Super effective.  Makes a great gift.  Crochet six and gift wrap.  Great for using up left over yarn.  
Materials: 

DK/8ply yarn
Size 4.50m hook
Scissors
Darning needle

Instructions:

Ch 6
Slip st to join the ring
Ch 3 (counts as 1dc), 15 dc into the ring. A total of 15 dc's + 3ch.
Ch up 4, dc into next st. (1dc, 1ch, 1dc) into the next 7 sts.
8 loops in all.
Slip st into top of 3 ch.
Slip st into next loop, ch 3, 5 dc into same loop. 
*(sl st in-between the two dc's. 6 dc into the next loop)*. Rep patt * to * until you have 8 petals.

Sew in your ends securely. Cut your threads.

Makes a very pretty coaster to adorn any coffee table.

Video demonstration:    Crochet Eight Petal Coaster



   

NECK WARMER in crochet

NECK WARMER

Crochet
DK/8 ply
Hook size: 4.00mm

Notes:
Sc sts are worked into the back loops only thus producing a stretch rib effect.  This creates air pockets to hold in the warmth.  Use a yarn suitable to be worn close to the skin.  Soft and cosy.

Instructions:
1.  Ch 2, 3 sc into the 2nd ch.  Ch 1, turn work.

Increase Row:
2.  1 sc into the 1st st, sc to the end.  Ch 1., turn work.  In this manner keep increasing 1 st at the beginning of each row until 20 sc.  1 ch, turn work.

3.  Work 1 row sc (no increase).

Decrease Row:
4.  Sc into 2nd sc and until the end of the row (decreasing 1 st).  Continue decreasing in this manner until 10 sts remain.

5.  Work straight for 8 rows.

6.  Follow the increase row until 20 sts are reached.

7.  Work straight for a further 70 rows (or to length req)

8.  Follow the decrease row until 10 sts remain.

9.  Work straight for 8 rows.

10.  Follow the increase row until there are 20 sts.

11.  Follow the decrease row until there are 2 sts left.  Cast off.

Loop Band:
1.  Attach your yarn to one  back ridge side of the 10 sc sts.  Pick up and sc along 10 back ridges.

2.  Sc a further 10 rows.

3.  Slip st into the other end of the 10 rows you attached to, thus creating a loop for passing the other end of your neck warmer through.  Sew in the end of yarn.

Your neck warmer is complete.  

Pass one end through the loop and Voila!

Baby Crochet Textured Coat

What I love about this pattern is the whole design.  It is well written and easy to follow.  I like patterns that work down from the neck as this one does.  This stitch pattern doesn't have a name.  I refer to it as a Puff Shell stitch.

The Puff Shell stitch pattern give the impression of a waffle type design.  This is particularly good for baby patterns to create warmth pockets to hold in the heat.

This Puff Shell pattern looks just as good on the reverse side, making this suitable for many projects like hats, scarves, cowls, baby blankets, afghans etc.  This definitely a go-to pattern of choice.

To the right is the one that I am working on at present and am absolutely delighted with it.  As soon as I pick it up I think of babies.  It feels and looks so right.  The yarn I am using is Robin Double Knit.  An 8ply/DK, and the hook size 4.00mm. 

As you can see the 'waffle' type Puff Shell stitch stands proud giving an awesome look.

Here is a close up of the stitch pattern on the reverse side, and as you can see it is just as good as the right side.  This is such an easy stitch to achieve.  I know you will love it.

This is just one of the many crochet patterns available for download at JustCrochet.  Patterns designed by Heather.

For a video link of the Shell stitch being worked go to:

Crochet Coat

This Baby Crochet Textured Coat Pattern is available to print off for free at:
 

http://www.justcrochet.com/textured-coat-usa.html

 

 

HOW TO MAKE LAUNDRY POWDER

I have been busy researching how to make my own laundry powder and fabric conditioner.  For me there were too many perfumes going on in each product bought from the supermarkets.  They would irritate my nose and interfere with my own personal choice of perfume I would rather smell of.  So after some extensive research on the internet, this is the recipe I have settled on.  And it works a treat. 

In fact my washing looks cleaner, especially my lights and whites.  I have been very impressed.  I haven't worked out just how economical it is until I run out.  But from what other homemade enthusiasts have written the recipe amount can last for up to 11 months.  Of course it would depend on the size of the boxed quantities used and how often you machine wash per day/week.  I can't wait to see.  So here is the recipe that I am now using.

WASHING POWDER:

1 part Borax - 1kg
1 part Washing Soda - 1kg
1 large bar of soap - 250grams

In a large container used only for this purpose mix together the Borax and Washing Soda.  Grate the large bar of soap and mix in.  Store in an airtight container.  I use 2 tablespoons of powder per normal frontload wash. If washing heavily soiled clothing I use more. 

Give it a try.  It will be more economical, more green, saving the planet and lighten allergy sufferers within your family.

Christmas Mini Boxed Photo Album

Over the past two weeks I have been constructing a Christmas themed Mini Boxed Photo Album.  

I have seen a few online and thought I would love to make one.  I did not have a pattern/template.  I thought I could work it out myself.  Well I did and love the end result.  I just need to fill it with Christmas photos of 2014.

During this process I made three video recordings of the steps and instructions I took to share with you.  

So if you would like to follow these videos these are the links to them.  Please like/share and subscribe to my channel.  Thank you......

Video one: Mini Boxed Photo Album
Video two: Mini Boxed Photo Album
Video three: Mini Boxed Photo Album

There is a fourth video to come in the making of the final pages and album. 

Watch this space!

Hexagon Christmas Star Decorations/Coasters

These Christmas Stars are so quick and easy to create.  They can be used for Christmas tree decorations, strung together as a Banner, or as I use them as Coasters.  They are just the right size and take little fabric to construct.  

Use a variety of fabrics and play with patterns or plain. Seasonal or Festive. Your imagination can run wild. 

The pattern is not mine, but was found on the website www.kiwiquilts.co.nz a couple of years ago; and I keep referring back to them for inspiration. 

The pattern consists of two 'nesting hexagons' when turned on point the larger one acts as the backing and binding to the front to form the 'Star'. With a little piece of wadding to act as an insulator in between the layers, if using as coasters.  

Looks really unique.

The PDF link for this free pattern is:

Hexagon Christmas Star Decoration/Coaster

Post It Note Cover & Pen

POST-IT-NOTES COVER & PEN



These instructions are for 3"x 3" Post-It-Notes

Materials:

Card stock cut at 7 3/8" x 3 1/4"
Bone scorer
Snail adhesive
Short pens or pens
Stamps, ink pads, and anything to embellish with






Score your card stock at intervals of  3 1/8", 3 1/2" and 3 7/8"
Fold card along all center score lines.  Cut to the score line at equal intervals as shown in the diagram below.  About 1/2" apart.  Enough room for a pen or pencil.

At this stage you can embellish the cover.  Stamp and emboss with celebration sentiments , or simply emboss with your Cuttle-Bug machine.  I have done both.

Once completed, fold and score lines so that the pen holder sits proud as in photo.  Apply snail adhesive to secure the  middle score line to the inside of the back, thus producing a book cover.

On the back of your post it notes pack run several lines of snail adhesive and carefully center inside the back panel.  There you are, a great economical and practical for for anyone.  Especially for those last minute gift ideas.  Easy and cheap to create.











Link to a downloadable printout:
Post It Note Cover & Pen

Mini Scrapbook Photo Album

I am currently working on mini scrapbook photo albums which I love. So creative from start to finish. This particular album is called 'A Step in Time'. And it was created with the male in mind. I chose the paper pad named 'Vintage Grunge' by Craft Concepts. 

The pad consists of 48 double sided 12" pages. It is jam-packed full of grunge type designs. Ideal for our male species. And if you are stuck for a present then why not create a similar such album.

Each page will hold between 6 - 10 photos, that includes both sides.  So with 6 pages this album can capture a lot memories.

The design that I took inspiration from was the Kathy Orta's build a page album.  Go to her video  Kathy Orta if you want to follow her design.  She created hers from envelopes and cards, but I made mine from A4 cardstock.  Very easy to adapt.


I have created a video on YouTube for you followers with more in-depth photos of the finished project.  I am super pleased with it and can't wait to move onto the next one.

Mini Scrapbook Photo Album

Crochet Bobble Hat

Just had to share this with you all.  I recently completed this project.  I had seen this pattern on Ravelry.com and instantly took a liking to it.  Just had to try out the pattern.  And seeing's as I had enough leftover yarn from something else to use I went ahead.  And I thought it looked stunning even if I say so myself.

I found the pattern by Viktoria Gogolak to be well written and easy to follow.  You do need to know how to do a 'Puff stitch', though clearly explained in the notes.  Otherwise using stitches of single crochet, double crochet, slip stitch and chain stitch was all that was needed. 










I found making the 'Pom Poms' the most tiresome thing to complete at the end.













Think I will invest in a 'Pom Pom' making tool.  I did mine the way I used to make them back at school.  Two cardboard circles.  Fiddly.

So my friends, to find this pattern go to www.ravelry.com and search for 'Ella Hat Crochet Pattern'. It is a pay for pattern.  But well worth it!

Ok, til the next time byeee!

If you found this post interesting please 'Share' with your friends and fellow crafters.

 Imagez 

from photo to pendant engraving

www.imagez.co.nz

for personalised photo engraved dog-tags/pendants

get your orders in early for Christmas!

Christmas Card Making

Christmas Card Making

I have been feeling very festive lately.  I have been making Christmas cards as I do every year.  I love getting into the Christmas stamping and designing a different look for each year.  This year is all about trees against a night sky. 

This involves some masking and sponging before stamping your image.  And it could be any stamp set you have that might reflect a little of Christmas in a card.  



Doesn't have to be religious nor Santa's and reindeer all over your card.  Though I do love the traditional Christmas colours of red, green, gold, silver and white.  But this year is more pictorial for me.



So today I made twelve cards and am feeling pretty good to have got started on them before November, (though only just).

Stamp set used: 'Lovely As A Tree' by StampinUp.

There are plenty of videos on YouTube for masking and sponging effect skylines.

Please Like, Share or Follow if you found this post of interest. Thank you!