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Monday, December 28, 2009

Crochet Horoscope 2010 - Part 3 of 3

Here's the third and final part of my crochet horoscopes for 2010. I do mention money a few times in some predictions, but that's because I believe money will still be a bit tight in 2010. Hopefully, I'll be wrong about that one;)
Anyway, as I stated, there's no deep, dark hidden agenda. The predictions are just for fun and if you find they hit a little close to you, well, I probably know a crocheter that is your zodiac sign.

Sagittarius November 22 - December 21
It can be a bit bumpy this year, but as long as you're careful, you should be okay. You're very idealistic and love the idea of helping people out. There's nothing wrong with that. But when you're investing your time, talent and money, make sure that it's clear where the items are going. You won't be happy if you find out all those pet blankets you're making are being sold on somebody's Etsy shop for their own profit. Plus you're going through a slow down in your crocheting. Maybe you're not inspired by anything that's out there, maybe you're working too much, but you will receive a welcome increase in crocheting in 2010. It will begin with something relatively small, maybe a beret but it will expand and soon your friends will be calling you "Speedy" for the amount your crochet.

Capricorn December 22 - January 19
You have a way of getting caught up in all the details of crocheting and that can be a good thing. Your projects are neatly finished, all the loose ends tucked away. But sometimes the details become overwhelming for you and you are just frozen in place by all the tiny things that must be done. So take a break by (gasp!) making some granny squares. Yes, you heard me right. Granny squares can be as simple or as elaborate as you choose them to be, but I'd suggest simple for you for a while. You need the break from sorting out all the little details that can clog up your creativity. Of course you can go back to your lovely precise crocheting and you will. But to relieve your stress form all that's going on around you, take a break. You will feel like you can't possibly do it, but you will need it more in 2010 than you do now - hard to believe but true. Take it easy on yourself.

Aquarius January 20 - February 18
Of all the zodiac signs, you have been the most eager for a new decade to begin. And you will get a chance to broaden your crochet horizons this year, maybe by learning tunisian or going to conference. Or maybe you're just find some more like minded people that you can talk to about crocheting. At any rate, you will definitely want to spend more time browsing thru pattern books and magazines. Maybe a few online tutorials will be helpful for you. All you know is that change is in the air and you want to be part of it. And you can be (and will be) - just don't buy out the yarn shop in search of something new. You (probably) have more than enough textures and colors in your own stash to get started on a new project. Use that yarn you've been saving for "something special". You are "something special" and you need to appreciate that about yourself.


Pisces February 19 - March 20
You have been much too busy to spend any real time crocheting, but things should start to settle down by about February. You'll have more time and more energy for crocheting. You also will have a burst of creativity unlike any you have ever experienced before. Suddenly the way stitches interlock will click in your head and you will be able to whip up some fantastic items. Some may be a little different, such as the unicorn hat for ferrets, but others will be spot on. This ongoing creativity will have seemed to have bubbled up from nowhere, but it's been percolating in you for quite some time. So hang on to your hook and enjoy the ride.

Crochet Horoscopes Part 2 of 3

As I stated in the first part, this 2010 horoscope is just for fun. If you recognize yourself in any of these predictions, it's just coincidence - or is it;)

we pick up where we left off - with Leo

Leo July 23- August 22
Leo, you do have high standards, all of us can agree on that one. But you are stubborn. Yes, I said it, stubborn. You put off doing a project until you have the perfect yarn to match the perfect pattern, the perfect buttons, the perfect crochet hook...there's no perfection in life. I'm not saying for you to loop any old thing together, but if you give yourself a little break, you will enjoy crocheting so much more this coming year. Plus by the time you line up all the perfect items for the perfect project, it may be too late to actually make them - that niece of yours could be in college and not really interested in matching sweaters for her American Girl doll and herself. Just loosen up a little, that's all I'm saying, and you will be able to enjoy crocheting so much more.

Virgo August 23 - September 22
Ravelry is fun. Facebook and My Space are fun. But when do you actually make time to crochet? When you are up against a deadline for a gift and you're so frazzled you don't produce the results you want? Here's my advice to you, Virgo, plan ahead - not a whole lot, just a little bit. Maybe find a stitch you want to learn and practice it by making a scarf - and use the scarf as a gift for a later time. Instead of reading about all the great stuff other people crochet, unplug for a bit and work on your own crocheting. You will be much happier with this turn of events because in the months to come, you will have a new somebody special to crochet for (it might be a new person in your life or somebody that you've known that becomes special to you) - and you'll be happy you took a little time to learn a new stitch or two.

Libra September 23 - October 22
Libra, Libra, Libra...you have so many projects going on you can't keep track of them. And you also can't finish them on time because you don't focus on one project for the time it takes to complete. Sure, that does mean you're interested in lots of different things. But it is also frustrating for you. So to make sure in December 2010 that you're _not_wondering where that hook is to finish those mittens, do a little organizing now. Use paper bags or plastic, but just get some control over your projects. Don't start another project, no matter how tempting, until you do this. This will be helpful because money is still going to an issue in 2010 (not just for you) and you will be able to save some cash by giving your lovely completed projects.

Scorpio October 23 - November 21
Yes, Scorpio, all of us know that you know all there is to know about crocheting. But 2010 is the year you put all that knowledge to work. Don't just look at a pattern and say "I can do better than that", actually do better than that pattern. This will teach you that although it looks easy to write a pattern, it isn't - and that you have a knack for writing easily understood patterns. Whether you decide to use this talent for producing unique items to sell or publish your patterns, you could use this skill to branch off into a different part of crochet. Just don't go crazy buying lots of yarn and setting up a website just yet. Be prudent and take things slowly. You will learn a lot from this experience.

That's it for part 2 - stay tuned for part 3

Sunday, December 27, 2009

2010 Crocheting Horoscopes - Part 1 of 3

Please keep in mind, this is just for fun and does not reflect any deeper, darker meaning. Just take it for what it is. If it hits a little too close for you, well, I probably know a crocheter that shares your birth sign;)

Aries March 21-April 19
You've been working a little too hard for too little reward, so 2010 is a time to relax a little. Give yourself a break and plot out a meaningful project for yourself. Maybe it's that afghan you really want to make but keep putting off. Maybe it's learning filet crochet, but whatever it is, carve out the time in your busy schedule to try something new. Even if it's a new yarn shop to visit, it will give you a much needed smile. You may have a new special someone to crochet for towards the end of 2010.

Taurus April 20-May 20
You may be traveling, for work or for pleasure. Check out the yarn shops in the area you travel to, you will be surprised what different yarn shops have. Be wary of making a deal to crochet something for profit for someone. Make sure all the details are clear so you will not be disappointed by rejection or non-payment. This situation could be financially worthwhile for you, but go into it with your eyes completely open to the pitfalls involved. Be patient, your crochet muse will visit you but not in the usual places - try a museum or movie for inspiration.

Gemini May 21-June 20
You have the chance in 2010 to take your crocheting up a notch. Whether it's entering a contest or selling some of your original designs, this upcoming year could be profitable for you in the crocheting part of your life. Maybe that blog you're struggling with will finally take off. Your new found enthusiasm for crochet will inspire you and others in the upcoming year. However, keep an eye on how much money you're spending on crochet related items. You know what I mean;)

Cancer June 21-July 22
You have been pondering what direction your should go in with your crochet. You should try to invest a little more time on your fiber habit because it will be helpful for you in the long run. Start taking photos of the items you make and either keep a scrapbook or a blog about these items. You'll be able to see your proficiency increase with each finished item. Don't do your usual thing of setting the goal too high for yourself. Crocheting is something you are supposed to enjoy. It's not a race between you and all other crocheters. Take it easy and enjoy the process.



Stay tuned for the next 2 parts.....

Sunday, December 20, 2009

ahhh, FM?

Before I start off, I should tell you that the CGOA has sent out an email warning their members of fake renewals. The fakes are coming from Publishers Billings. I received one and tossed it just because I knew I had just renewed my membership. So be on the lookout so you don't get scammed. Here's a quote from the email for you:
"Any true CGOA membership renewal notice will always state clearly that it is from CGOA.

If you have any question regarding your CGOA membership renewal status, feel free to contact CGOA@CGOA.com or call CGOA headquarters at 740-452-4541."


I hate to report this but I got nothing. Seriously, I usually search posts and listings for free crochet patterns that would pertain to whatever my theme (if there is one) might be and I just haven't had the time. I'm always amazed at how fast Christmas comes. When I was a kid, from Thanksgiving to Christmas seems like an unbearable stretch of time. Now it's like put away the dishes from Thanksgiving and it's Christmas.
I still don't have my tree up. My sons were going to come over yesterday (it's our tradition) but with 12+ inches of snow, that wasn't going to happen. And today we had to take them to the store so they could get shovels to dig out the car. Apparently, we haven't had that much snow since they moved out. The main highways here are generally good, but the side streets have not been plowed. They probably won't be until Thursday;)
Even though I have no free patterns to offer this week, I do have a link to the world's largest crochet blanket.
http://fortheloveofcrochetalong.blogspot.com/2009/12/worlds-largest-crochet-blanket.html
The woman worked on it for 11 years! That would drive me nuttier than I already am. I am working on a hat for the youngest great nephew and fretting about finishing it in time. It's a baby hat, how long can it take? Shouldn't be very long, since I started one pattern and ripped it all out. Plus I got to finish his bib.
And I'm doing Christmas this year, woo hoo. Actually, I'm providing the house for it, my brother and sister-in-law are supplying the food. My sister-in-law is pursuing her nurse practioner's degree and between school and work, they won't have it together. I'm not so sure I will either, but whatever happens, it will work out. It always does, one way or the other.

I wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas.

_enjoy_

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Crocheter's Night Before Christmas

*** I did not write this, I found it on the internet. I am crediting the knit version to Nancy Massaroni, and Dee Stanziano rewrote it to fit into crochet.
If you've used this poem in the past, the info is CROCHETERS CHRISTMAS EVE, Original knit version by Nancy Massaroni, 2003, rewritten (crochet version) by Dee Stanziano, 2006. Please give them credit.



CROCHETERS´ NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS

~ Nancy Massaroni adapted by Dee Stanziano ("Crocheting with Dee")

`Twas the night before Christmas and all around me
There was unfinished crocheting not under the tree,
The stockings weren´t hung by the chimney with care
`Cause the heels and the toes had not a stitch there.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
But I had not finished the caps for their heads.
Dad was asleep-he was no help at all.
And the sweater for him was 6´´ too small.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I put down my hook to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash.
Tripped over my yarn and fell down in my stash.

The tangle of yarn that lay deep as the snow
Reminded me how far I still had to go.
When out on the lawn I heard such a noise,
I was sure it would wake up both Dad and the boys.

And although I was tired-my brain a bit thick,
I knew in a moment that it must be St Nick.
Yet what I heard left me very perplex-ed
For nothing I heard was what I expect-ed.

"Move Rowan! Move Patons! Move Koigu and Clover!
Move Shelridge! Move Starmore! Move Spinrite! Move over!
Lopi, don´t circle around, just stand there in line.
Pay attention you sheep and you´ll work out just fine!

I know this is hard as it´s just your first year
But I´d hate to go back to 8 tiny reindeer."
I peered over the sill. What I saw was amazing:
Eight wooly sheep on my lawn all a-grazing!

And then in a twinkle, I heard at the door
Santa´s big boots stomping on the porch floor.
I rose from my knees and got back on my feet.
As I turned around, St Nick I did meet.

He was dressed all in wool from his heat to his toe
And his clothes were hand crochet from above to below.
A bright Fair Isle sweater he wore on his back.
And his toys were all stuffed in an Aran crochet sack.

His hat was a wonder of bobbles and lace
A beautiful frame for his rosy red face.
The scarf on his neck could have stretched for a mile,
And the socks peeking over his boots were Argyle.

On the back of his mitts was an intricate cable.
And suddenly on one I spotted a small label:
"S.C." in duplicate on the cuff.
So I asked, "Hey, Nick, did YOU crochet all this stuff?"

He proudly replied, "Ho, ho, ho, yes I did.
I learned how to crochet when I was just a kid."
He was chubby and plump, a well dressed old man,
And I laughed to myself, for I´d thought up a plan.

I flashed him a grin and jumped up in the air,
And the next thing he knew, he was tied to a chair.
He spoke not a word, but looked down in his lap
Where I had laid my crochet hook and yarn for a cap.

He began then to crochet, first one cap then 2-
For the first time I thought I might really get through.
He put heels in the stockings and toes in some socks,
While I sat back drinking a scotch on the rocks.

Quickly like magic his hooks they flew,
Good Grief! He was finished by two!
He sprang for his sleigh when I let him go free,
And over his shoulder he looked back at me.
I heard him explain as he sailed past the moon,
"Next year, start your crocheting sometime around JUNE!"

Monday, December 14, 2009

FM 12/14/09

I can't believe it's so far into December. What was I thinking? Anyway, here's some links for you today

I printed this pattern for a ear flap hat to make one for my youngest sister. While it seems like a good pattern, I ended up not using it and making it up as I go along. It uses the bottom up technique, but I prefer the top down method. After all, I could try on the hat as it grew so I could find out if it would fit correctly.
http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet-Hats-Scarves-Gloves/Earflap-Hat-Crochet-Pattern-from-Caron-Yarn


I can't help it, I love snowflakes. (Obviously, I don't live in the midwest) Here's a snowflake ornament
http://www.jpfun.com/patterns/free/ornaments/f103016prettysnowflake.shtml



And if it's cold where you are, here's a pattern for a pair of chunky mittens and scarf set
http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet-Hats-Scarves-Gloves/Chunky-Crochet-Mittens-and-Scarf-from-Bernat


And a reindeer ornament
http://crochet.about.com/library/weekly/aa121899.htm

and a gingerbread ornament
http://www.craftbits.com/viewProject.do?projectID=169


and a flat angel ornament
http://www.cm-crafts.com/flatyarnangel.htm


In case you forgot how a stitch should be made, here's a tutorial
http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to-crochet-star/


Since we are getting close to the finish line, here's some quick patterns to do. Remember, you could always make 1 panel of a mile-a-minute as a scarf.

Beaded Mile-a-Minute Bracelet
http://www.jpfun.com/patterns/free/jewelry/f107009mambracelet.shtml

Mile-a-Minute Afghan
http://crochet.about.com/library/n061398.htm


Mile-a-Minute Scarf
http://www.coatsandclark.com/Crafts/Crochet/Projects/Accessories/SB300-006+Crochet+Mile-a-Minute+Scarf.htm


Mile-a-Minute Afghan
http://www.purplekittyyarns.com/crochet-afghansli.html



You know the drill - no payola was given to me for making these links available. If somebody wants to pay me off in yarn, I'd be happy to accept it;)

_enjoy_

Friday, December 11, 2009

Chanukkah / Hanukkah crochet

Yes, I do know the Festival of Lights is almost upon us. There is not as much Hanukkah crochet out on the interweb, or if there is, I don't know where to find it. But here's a few patterns to get started.


Robin Chachula's softy dreidel
http://crochetbyfaye.blogspot.com/2007/12/dreidel-softie.html



A Star of David Square - perhaps put them together to make a scarf or afghan?
http://cgli.150m.com/starofdavid.htm



Here are more Star of David motifs
http://www.chezcrochet.com/page51.html


Here are some prayer caps (kipahs) - check out the Star of David one
http://www.directions2.clicksitebuilder.com/index.html


And a Star of David kipah
http://community.livejournal.com/craftgrrl/1401191.html

again, no payola to me for posting these links.
_enjoy_ and may your December be filled with light and love

Wednesday, December 09, 2009

*whew*

Sorry, folks, somehow or another the time slipped away from me and I wasn't ready for Freebie Monday. I don't even have the excuse of Black Friday shopping to fall back on. In my (limited) defense, I will say I was making cakes for a Toys for Tots bake sale. Unfortunately, I burned up one milky way cake :( and had to make another. I'm not sure if the pan will survive, I've been working on it. I hope it does because good tube pans are hard to find.
In present making news, I finished the lion for my niece & nephew to go with the afghan,I really liked the way the afghan turned out, but I was too dumb to take a picture of it. I made a lavender mohair blend long scarf for my oldest sister. I really don't like working with mohair as it makes my eyes and throat itch. But it's done and it's soft and lovely. I made an ear flap hat for my youngest sister. She uses public transportation and it's cold out there. So far we have been spared any snow, but it won't last forever. I started the project with a free pattern, but it was worked from the bottom up. I'm not a fan of that technique because I like to check the fit of the hat as I go along. So I basically made up the pattern as I went along. I used Lion Brand Homespun in the black and purple color way. That is because my youngest sister is a Ravens' fan and those are the Ravens' team colors.

This is a short list, but it will give you a start:


Noreen Crone-Findlay not only posts a wire snowflake pattern, she also includes lots of snowflake links Those of you who are sick of snow probably want to skip this)
http://www.blisstree.com/hankeringforyarn/snowflakes-how-to-make-a-wire-snowflake/

This is a cute yo-yo pattern - for the toy, not the motif. Check it out
http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=307721.0



Here's a granny tree that has 2 versions - one at "The Royal Sisters":
http://theroyalsisters.blogspot.com/2009/11/grandma-tree-tutorial.html

And one at Amy O'Neil Houck's "The Hook and I" blog - along with more crochet ornaments
http://www.thehookandi.com/2009/12/01/ornament-crochet-along/

Here's another ornament from "The Royal Sisters" blog
http://theroyalsisters.blogspot.com/2009/11/grandma-twinkle-tutorial.html


And a star garland
http://ellenbloom.blogspot.com/2009/12/garland-of-stars.html


The sweater doesn't work for me, at least not with the dinosaur on it. But what did work for me was the dinosaur. You could just make the dino motif and sew it on a sweatshirt and instant dino clothing;)
http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet-for-Kids/Dinosaur-Sweater-Crochet-Pattern-from-Red-Heart#

Here's a cute little stocking
http://crochet-mania.blogspot.com/2008/06/blog-post_14.html

This is a really cool link for Danish hearts
http://shala-beads.livejournal.com/265530.html

You heard the story before - no exchange of money, gifts or anything else was provided to me for posting these links. But if anybody has a spare tube pan, I can probably be bought....

_enjoy_