This past year I've had to take the focus off crochet though.
I took a part time job in March and starting this next week I've taken a Assistant Management Position and will become full time back into work after about 7 years of not working outside the home. Balancing it all as a Wife, Mother, Business owner and part time working hasn't been easy. I miss the time to design. I have to figure out how to make it all work. It may be quieter around here but I've got plans and designs to come as I can. Of course I'm always open to custom orders too. I was just thinking how thankful I am that I got to do this for 7 almost 8 years while raising my little ones. Thank you for helping me be able to do that!
I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and Happy Holiday's ahead! Enjoy the sale!
I don't know about you but a big trend last year in crochet was Yarn Pooling! Did you try it? I know I did and failed. Trying to find the right yarn, formulas and such wasn't easy on my own. Of course I didn't do a lot of research at first and was just grabbing variegated yarn I had on hand and just hoping it would magically happen. It didn't. I now have perfect solution and resource!
Yarn Pooling Made Easy
By Marly Bird
This new book has 32 pages of wonderful information on Yarn Pooling.
*General Instructions crochet terms, symbols, abbreviations and a few pictorial walk throughs of a few more intricate stitches.
*Yarn information
I love it when books include the exact yarn used. I find this very helpful especially in yarn pooling.
As Marly is Red HeartYarns National Spokesperson as yarns used are Red Heart Brand.
*10 - Easy Patterns
a few scarves
a set: hat, cowl and fingerless gloves
Car Seat Cover
Child's Sweater
Baby Cocoon
Poncho
I was really impressed with the variety of patterns. It was hard for me to choose one to make.
I started with the Full Scarf, but I didn't just want a basic scarf and I messed up at the beginning so I pulled it out. I was drawn to the child's sweater but I didn't have enough yarn.
So, I decided I would Make the Car Seat Cover just a smaller version of it.
I crochet for my daughters dolls a lot and thought it would make a cute mini babydoll blanket.
I just happened to have a Skien of Red Heart Super Saver #906 Ocean. This was used for the scarf pictured above in the banner.
I worked up a small rectangle using the yarn pooling method from the book and guess what it worked out!! Isn't this gorgeous. What I really loved was the border. It called for two contrasting colors but I went with a matching purple and the same variegated in the center and it made another lovely colorful border effect.
I really love the way it turned out and my Daughter did too.
So, if you were scared of yarn pooling.
Marly Bird and this book will help you through it!
I have to say personally. I've taken classes and followed Marly Bird for Years! She is an amazing women and you will learn so much from her! I can't say enough great things! Even if Yarn pooling isn't for you, You have to check out all her amazing designs and youtube tutorials.
You will want to get your hands on this book!
I'm hosting a Giveaway to win a copy of this book!
Thanks so much to Marly Bird and Leisure Arts for providing a copy of the book to me for review. This post does contain affiliate links which I may be compensated for when you make a purchase, however the review is my honest, un-biased opinion.
I haven't had a chance to "write" out the Joining the squares and Final Border Details! Life is just a little busy and crazy right now! I took a part time job and I'm learning to adjust with less time to crochet. I sure wished I'd wrote it out earlier when I did it LOL. Someday I'll learn that is the easiest way to write a pattern but I got excited to finish.
I will add to this very soon. Hopefully by the end of the week if not by the end of March!
I do however have the videos loaded up on youtube so you can follow along on how to finish up! I know of a few of you are patiently waiting so I hope this helps in the mean time! I'll add more to this post very soon!
Part 5 - Joining the Squares using the Simulated Braided Join Method
Part 6 Final Border Details and Finishing!
If you want to follow my border.
1 Round each of -Desert Glaze, Yellow, Mid Green, Peacock, Hot Rose
Ending with one Round of Ivory. Per video instructions.
I found explaining the edging typed out a little confusing so I was sure to make a video showing you exactly what I did, along with the typed out instructions. Just don't over think it!
Edging:
Join yarn in any corner, (sc, ch 2, sc) [First corner made],
sc in the next Square space,
*(ch 2, sc in next square space) Repeat from * 12 more times), sc in next square space,
(sc, ch 2, sc ) [2nd corner made]
(15 ch-2 spaces including both corners)
Pattern continued below notes:
NOTES: Continue pattern around each side making sure you have 15 ch-2 spaces along each edge. See Video for further explanation.
sc in the next Square space, *(ch 2, sc in next square space) Repeat from * 12 more times), sc in next square space,(sc, ch 2, sc ) [3nd corner made]
sc in the next Square space,*(ch 2, sc in next square space) Repeat from * 12 more times), sc in next square space, join with a sl st to 1st sc. Fasten off and Weave in Ends. If you have any questions, please watch the video 1st and then feel free to email me. We'll have joining instructions later in the week.
Today is the day! We are on our last square! While this little bumble bee wasn't really part of the logo I thought he fit in rather well. Isn't he just a cute little buggy.
I've just added the video and better written instructions for the square edging (you can find that at the end of the this pattern)
Be sure to add your projects in Ravelry and feel free to share on social media. I'd love to see your squares!
Maybe one day I'll create more graphs with some other
critters or creatures.
What would you like to see?
Here is a link to the full materials list, other squares and
Sorry I'm getting this weeks square to you a little later in the day this week. I started a new part time job so I'm trying to juggle this new adventure.
Don't worry Calleigh's Clips isn't going anywhere! I still plan to design and create wonderful items for you.
I hope you are really enjoying this blanket!
We are coming down to the last few squares.
Since It's a crazy week for me and you need two of this square for the blanket there will only be this one post this week instead of two.
I do need to apologize. While I've filmed all the videos I haven't had time to edit them all. I'm going to try very hard to do that this week. So be on the look out for those as well.
This weeks squares are super simple diagonal stripes
with easy color changes every couple rows.
These should work up easy peasy and fast!
Here is a link to the full materials list, other squares and
Today's square is full of whimsy and fun! I couldn't decide if I wanted one mushroom or two, but ultimately decided on two. As always, feel free to choose other colors or leave off the spots for less color changes. This one was one of my harder ones to design just right. In the end I like it though. I hope you enjoy it too.
Here is a link to the full materials list, other squares and
Happy March! I say this all the time but man time flies! We are in the 3rd month of 2017. Things are warming up and Spring is just around the corner! Time to get ready for Shamrocks ☘ and Easter Bunnies🐰! Let's make sure your cute little babies are all dressed up! OH and don't forget you too!
Happy Day! It's time for our next square! This one is pretty special to me and has unique coloring. Feel free to use more traditional colors if you desire. Now remember I designed each square after my logo which is why this turtle is so colorful. You could even leave out the little dots on the shell for less color changing if you desire.
Turtles are a favorite around here as it was one of my 1st ever designs to go viral around the inter-webs! I've literally sold 1000's of patterns and made 100's of turtle sets! It will always have a special place in my heart. You can see that design below.
How are your squares coming? Are you ready for number 4. I love this one because it's a simple flower with little color changes!
This past week I was able to start filming the video tutorial for those that need assistance learning how to do the mini c2c and working from a graph! You can find Part 1 on Youtube
Gauge isn't essential! Whew! LOL! I know you wouldn't make a swatch anyways. haha!
Colors needed : Hot Rose, Desert Glaze, & Ivory
*Each Square on the graph represents one square in the mini c2c stitch Start at box 1 with mini c2c working diagonally up to box 29, Do not Fasten off Edging:Click here for For Edging Squares instructions
Yay! It's time for Square #3! I'm in love with this adorable ladybug! The Ladybug is special because it represents the first ever Cuddle Critter Cape design that started this wonderful crochet design journey for me 7 years ago!
Here is a link to the full materials list, other squares and
Gauge isn't essential! Whew! LOL! I know you wouldn't make a swatch anyways. haha!
Colors needed : Hot Rose, Charcoal, Ocean, & Ivory
*Each Square on the graph represents one square in the mini c2c stitch Start at box 1 with mini c2c working diagonally up to box 29, Do not Fasten off Edging:Click here for For Edging Squares instructions
Watch for square #4 later in the week as well as some video tutorials! I'm finally feeling better and won't sound so stuffy.
I hope you are excited for square #2! It's a tree. I enjoyed making this square because of minimal color changes. It's simple but fun! You can jazz it up by adding some extra dots of color in the tree if you wanted for apples, oranges or other fruit by filling in the squares you desire.
This is where you can get creative and unique.
Here is a link to the 1st square, full materials list and Project details!
**You will only need a tiny bit of the Toasted Almond color (light brown). It will only be used it in this square so a very small amount of a brown shade you have will work to with out having to buy a full skein if you would like.
*Each Square on the graph represents one square in the mini c2c stitch Start at box 1 with mini c2c working diagonally up to box 29, Do not Fasten off Edging:Click here for For Edging Squares instructions Watch for square #3 early next week!
I'm so excited to share with you my latest design! I had this idea to use my logo to create a graphgan. I'd never made a graphgan myself before and thought it would be too much work, to much yarn and oy, those color changes! So many ends to weave!
I have made c2c blankets and I love the stitch, so I decided to just jump in with it!
I recently learned mini c2c stitch, basically you use a hdc stitch instead of a dc so it uses less yarn and make a smaller square. I fell in love even more!
I designed 9 whimsical squares and have a few ideas for more. I'll be posting about 2 squares a week over the next 5 weeks! The last week I'll share the last square and border I used. I'm not holding an official Crochet along but if you want to make one as I post each week. I'll be fresh to answer questions along the way. You are welcome to post on my facebook page, group or tag me on instagram @calleighsclips so we can have fun together!
Since I used the mini c2c stitch all my info will be based off that but feel free to have fun with this.
Use a different stitch, c2c, bobbles, sc, your preferred graph method.
You can use different colors, yarn sizes or hook choices.
You are not stuck on what I use. Be creative and have fun!
If you are a planner like me, I have a materials list for the whole blanket. If you have a decent stash like I do I had every thing on hand already. I'm doing good sticking to my no - new yarn ban.
See Release Schedule at the end of the post!
Be sure to add this to your Raverly Favorites and link up your projects so I can see your progress.
Watch for the next square later in the week.
Curious what the other squares might be???
It's all based off my logo! So you'll just have to wait and see what's next! I hope to design more bonus squares too! You can do so much more than just a blankets! Pillows, Wall hangings, purses and more! Enjoy!
I seems every year I say "I can't believe how fast that year went!" but honestly as I look back on these past seven years it has been an incredible rollercoaster! From super highs to way down lows. Running a home business isn't always easy but you know what I'm beyond thankful for each and everyone of you who read the blog, watch me on youtube, follow on all things social media, enjoy free patterns, buy paid patterns or just chat about our love of all things crochet....even knit! I've made some incredible friends along the way. I've loved getting to share my journey with you even if I've been a blog slacker for the past few years! It's hard to do it all! If I could just crochet all the time I would, I'm pretty sure you would too!
Of course we can't have a celebration with out a sale! It's actually been live all weekend but I think people are avoiding social media right now! (we won't talk about that). I should probably have blogged sooner but life....So I've extended the sale!
Get 77% off any pattern purchase in my Ravelry Shop!
Used the Code at check out!
SEVEN
Buy one or buy a bunch at all less then $1.39 each!
Sale will end midnight central Jan 31, 2017
Can't buy in the sale! Be sure to check out our free patterns too!
Don't crochet, Let me make something special just for you!
I also did a live video chat yesterday on facebook announcing a simple giveaway go watch it for details on how to enter if you'd like!
If you follow crochet trends you've for sure seen the surge in messy bun or ponytail hats! I love the idea. I connected with it as a runner sometimes you need more than just an ear warmer but you still want your hair off your neck. Some think it's silly and a year ago I might have said the same thing because I had a pixie hair cut. I would have no use for it LOL. I've let my hair grow now so I just really loved the idea. I've made a ton of them and I look forward to making more! You can buy a finished one from my Etsy shop
I know there have been a surge of pattern so I wanted think a little different. Most I've seen are super bulky/chunky or basic. I thought My Key Tab Series Stitch would be easy to adapt to a bun hat but give it a light, lacy look that cozy but not to thick. especially if your weather isn't super cold.
I also decided it would be fun to write doll size, kids, youth and women's! This is a very easy pattern to adjust size or height to as well. I'll give some tips for that too if you do need to adjust . I hope you enjoy my design on this new popular favorite!
I also found this amazing new yarn that is my current favorite! You know I love Hobby Lobby's I Love This Yarn Worsted. They came out with a few amazing color ways that are what I call twisted Rainbow colors. Even though they are Worsted the texture reminds me of a mix between Lion Brand Heartland and Simply Soft. I'm in love with the colors! I've picked up 4 different ones and I think there might be one or two more other mixes too.
Worsted Weight Yarn of Choice: In my samples I used the following: Hobby Lobby I Love This Yarn - Worsted Weight (4) *Brights (rainbow/jewel tones, Blue Multi (blue/purple/pinks) or Lion Brand Heartland Worsted Weight (4) (as I used in my original key tab series)
*Hook size: H - (5.00 mm)
*Tapestry Needle
*Ribbing Gauge 2” x 2” swatch = 8 rows of 8 sc
*Body of Hat Gauge 2” x 2” swatch = 4 rows of 8 dc
Terms and Stitches used:
(ch) chain, (st) stitch, (sp) space, (sl st) slip stitch, (sc) single crochet, (dc) double crochet, (rep) repeat, (blo) back loop only, (YO) yarn over
Special Stitches:
*Three Double Crochet Cluster (3dc cl)
YO hook insert hook into the next indicated st/sp, YO and draw up a loop, (3 loops on hook) YO and draw through 2 loops, YO hook insert hook into the same st/sp, YO and draw up a loop, (4 loops on hook) YO draw through 2 loops, YO hook insert hook into the same st/sp, YO and draw up a loop, (5 loops on hook), YO draw through 2 loops, YO and pull through remaining 4 loops. One cluster made.
Notes:
*Chain stitch does not count in stitch count!
*The number at the end of each row is the stitch count for the row (#).
*Hat is worked from the bottom up!
Size Adjusting tips: If you need a smaller or larger size around just make sure the Ribbing is a multiple of 4, for instance I have 32, 52, 56 & 60 for sizes - you can do 36, 40, 44, 48, 64 or 68 and so on. The rest of the hat will fall right into place. Easy adjusting for using other yarn types, size or tensions.
Video Helps and walk through:
18 In Doll
Measurements: Fit approx 12 inches around, 3 3/4 inches long
Ribbing:
Row 1: ch 4, (working in BLO only) sc in 2nd ch from the hook and each ch across, ch 1, turn (3)
Row 2: sc in blo of each st across, ch 1, turn (3)
Row 3-32: Repeat Row 2
*Match up Row 1 and Row 32, sl st together in blo of each st across to join, ch 1
*Do Not Fasten off! Body of Hat: Make sure right side is facing.
Round 1: working along the ends of the rows, sc in each row around, join with a sl st to 1st sc, ch 1(32)
Round 2: sc in same st as join, ch 3, 3dc cl in next st, ch1, sk 2 sts, *(sc in next st, ch 3, 3dc cl in next st, ch1 sk 2 sts) rep from * around, join with a sl st to 1st sc, ch 2, turn (8 - 3dc cl)
Round 3: *(sc, ch 3, 3dc cl) in next ch 3 sp, ch 1, rep from * around, join with a sl st to 1st sc, ch 2, turn (8 - 3dc cl)
Round 4-6: rep Round 3
Round 7: *(sc in next ch 3 sp, ch 1), rep from * around join with a sl st to 1st sc, Fasten of and weave in ends.
Kids 1-5
Measurements: Fits approx 16-18 inches around, 6 1/2 inches long
Ribbing: Row 1: ch 8, (working in BLO only) sc in 2nd ch from the hook and each ch across, ch 1, turn (7)
Row 2: sc in blo of each st across, ch 1, turn (7)
Row 3-52: Repeat Row 2
*Match up Row 1 and Row 52, sl st together in blo of each st across to join, ch 1
*Do Not Fasten off!
Body of Hat: Make sure right side is facing.
Round 1: working along the ends of the rows, sc in each row around, join with a sl st to 1st sc, ch 1(52)
Round 2: sc in same st as join, ch 3, 3dc cl in next st, ch1, sk 2 sts, *(sc in next st, ch 3, 3dc cl in next st, ch1 sk 2 sts) rep from * around, join with a sl st to 1st sc, ch 2, turn (13 - 3dc cl)
Round 3: *(sc, ch 3, 3dc cl) in next ch 3 sp, ch 1, rep from * around, join with a sl st to 1st sc, ch 2, turn (13 - 3dc cl)
Round 4-9: rep Round 3
Round 10: *(sc in next ch 3 sp, ch 1), rep from * around join with a sl st to 1st sc, Fasten of and weave in ends.
Youth 5-10
Measurements: Fits approx 18-20 inches around, 7 inches long
Ribbing: Row 1: ch 8, (working in BLO only) sc in 2nd ch from the hook and each ch across, ch 1, turn (7)
Row 2: sc in blo of each st across, ch 1, turn (7)
Row 3-56: Repeat Row 2
*Match up Row 1 and Row 56, sl st together in blo of each st across to join, ch 1
*Do Not Fasten off!
Body of Hat: Make sure right side is facing.
Round 1: working along the ends of the rows, sc in each row around, join with a sl st to 1st sc, ch 1(56)
Round 2: sc in same st as join, ch 3, 3dc cl in next st, ch1, sk 2 sts, *(sc in next st, ch 3, 3dc cl in next st, ch1 sk 2 sts) rep from * around, join with a sl st to 1st sc, ch 2, turn (14 - 3dc cl)
Round 3: *(sc, ch 3, 3dc cl) in next ch 3 sp, ch 1, rep from * around, join with a sl st to 1st sc, ch 2, turn (14 - 3dc cl)
Round 4-10: rep Round 3
Round 11: *(sc in next ch 3 sp, ch 1), rep from * around join with a sl st to 1st sc, Fasten of and weave in ends.
Pre-teen - Women’s
Measurements: Fits approx 20-22 inches around, 8 inches long
Ribbing:
Row 1: ch 8, (working in BLO only) sc in 2nd ch from the hook and each ch across, ch 1, turn (7)
Row 2: sc in blo of each st across, ch 1, turn (7)
Row 3-60: Repeat Row 2
*Match up Row 1 and Row 60, sl st together in blo of each st across to join, ch 1
*Do Not Fasten off!
Body of Hat: Make sure right side is facing.
Round 1: working along the ends of the rows, sc in each row around, join with a sl st to 1st sc, ch 1(60)
Round 2: sc in same st as join, ch 3, 3dc cl in next st, ch1, sk 2 sts, *(sc in next st, ch 3, 3dc cl in next st, ch1 sk 2 sts) rep from * around, join with a sl st to 1st sc, ch 2, turn (15 - 3dc cl)
Round 3: *(sc, ch 3, 3dc cl) in next ch 3 sp, ch 1, rep from * around, join with a sl st to 1st sc, ch 2, turn (15 - 3dc cl)
Round 4-11: rep Round 3
Round 12: *(sc in next ch 3 sp, ch 1), rep from * around join with a sl st to 1st sc, Fasten of and weave in ends.
Copyright 2017 Calleigh's Clips and Crochet Creations Please do not copy and/or redistribute this pattern, but direct people back to the blog post.
Thank you for using a Calleigh’s Clips original pattern. I have done my best to keep my patterns simple and easy to understand. If at any time you need assistance, please feel free to contact me using the contact me tab.
Please remember that there may be a slight variance in sizing due to different tensions of each individual and materials used.
All patterns are copyright protected, but you are welcome to sell finished products made from my patterns. I do ask, however, that you mention my company name along with my web shop address as follows:
Calleigh’s Clips & Crochet Creations by Elisabeth Spivey