Crochet Day:)

Okay, here it is, September 12 and it's Crochet Day. I know, every day is crochet day, but apparently this is a bigger deal than just everyday. I probably won't crochet in public because my employer has this silly notion that when I am at work, I should be working. But I will be working on preemie hats tonight, so that's when I get the crochet on.....

For those of you who are planning an active fall lifestyle, particularly the kind that includes going to places where you got to dress up, I have this amazing pattern for a party purse. Okay, it's not "Amazing" it's "Vanna's Sequins"...

here's the link from Lion Brand
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/L20105.html?utm_source=Patterns_20120911_Sept11&utm_medium=Emails&utm_campaign=NewPatternsAlert&utm_content=P-MoonWaterClutch

_enjoy_

hello again

Hi.
I haven't been saving the world or anything besides the normal stuff of working and living my life. Nothing terribly exciting (unless you enjoy compliance training) just chugging along.

I have finished a pink and white baby afghan, a giant granny square using the Fibronacci sequence. I think it looks cool, but that's me.I've cleared everything out except the BIG project I alternately dread and am excited about. It's a matching curtain for the window, the lion curtain....

I need to get this done because it is always in the back of my mind that I need to finish it. Silly, isn't it? But this UFO has been hanging around the house way too long and I will be happy to finish it.

I think the craft stores are taking a major hit in this recession. Almost every week, Michaels and A.C. Moore have a 20% discount coupon. I know, you'd think I'd be hitting that sale every week. Rubber stamps, magazines, paper and of course yarn for 20% off. Sounds great. But....
I'm only semi interested in checking it out. Is it depression? Did a pod person take over me? I don't think so. One driving force is I have more yarn than I can possibly use in my life. As a matter of fact, I'm thinking of reducing my stash (don't faint!) because there is so much I'm not going to ever use. I have some beautiful bulky fall colored yarn. Absolutely beautiful. It's wool. I don't know if it's getting older or what but I find it difficult to work with wool. I get all stuffed up and itchy when I crochet with it. Same with mohair, but worse. This is a shame because I have some beautiful yarn in those fibers, but not if it is going to cause me to clog up.
Another reason is there is not enough variety of books and magazines in these stores. I mean, I wasn't that fond of "The Happy Hooker" but some folks think it is awesome. Stitch 'N Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker I'd rather see something new such as Unexpected Afghans: Innovative Crochet Designs with Traditional Techniques or The Complete Photo Guide to Crochet: *All You Need to Know to Crochet *The Essential Reference for Novice and Expert Crocheters *Comprehensive Guide ... Charts, and Photos for 200 Stitch Patterns or Simple Crocheting: A Complete How-to-Crochet Workshop with 20 Projects or here's something I could really use The Crochet Artist Memory (no kickback for me from these authors, just saying)

just something that has been published in the last 3 years. Sometimes (*gasp*) I go to Joanne Fabrics for books and magazines. They seem to have a fresher inventory or maybe it's just stuff I don't already own. They also have British books there occasionally.

But I don't know, maybe I am just a cheapskate.

It was suggested to me from somebody that I make myself a panda bear similar to the one I made for my sister Howie that was buried with her. She suggested it may have healing qualities for me. I think she is right. (It's strange to mention this on what would have been Howie's 54th birthday). Now I just got to find the perfect yarn - I used the Lion brand microspun yarn for hers. I am not sure that's the name of the yarn, but it is so soft and smooth and easy to work with - even when your eyes are full of tears. Do I have what was left of it in my stash or should I buy more....well, I do have discount coupons;)

Free shipping on Lion Brand's site

From April 15 to April 30, 2010, Lion Brand is offering free shipping on their yarn. The code is crchtrsrck


http://www.lionbrand.com/cgi-bin/epg.fcgi?page=MainPage1.html&utm_source=Favecrafts&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Favecrafts

and no, Lion Brand doesn't give me a kickback. I'd take one;)

FM 11/16/09

Hello. I have finally finished the round afghan and need to take a photo of it. I am also making a lion toy to go with it, it will be all white with a multi-colored mane.
I have the body made, I just need to do the ears, legs and tail.
Today would have been my friend Robin Freed's 55th birthday. I met her thru rubber stamping but we were both interested in fiber. Her interest took the form of quilts. For a quilter, the quilt block is the basic tool they use to make their creations. We crocheters also use motifs to make our creations. So in honor/memory of Robin Freed's 55th, I am posting links to various free motif crochet patterns.



Triple triangle square
http://crochet.about.com/library/weekly/aa120706.htm


Lace motifs - these are great
http://www.mypicot.com/crochet_patterns_quilt_motifs01.html

double heart square
http://www.crochetnmore.com/bonnieschristmasdoublehearts.htm


Teresa's "Art of Crochet" blog has a wonderfully textured knobby granny square
http://crochet-mania.blogspot.com/2009/02/crochet-knobby-granny-square.html


baby bonnet squares
http://crochetroo.blogspot.com/2007/03/bonnet-babies-crochet-square.html



hearts in a row square
http://www.freepatternsdonnascrochetdesigns.com/hearts-row-patches-free-crochet-pattern.html


Northern Lights motif is made in size 10 crochet thread, but I bet it would look great in fingering or lace weight yarn
http://www.karensvariety.com/NEWSLETTER/Patterns/NorthernLights.htm

Concentric circles from Lion Brand
http://cache.lionbrand.com/cgi-bin/faq-search.cgi?store=/stores/eyarn&faqKey=335


This is really cute - a retro polka-dot square
http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=86785

torch flower motif
http://pandacrochet.8m.com/torchflower.html

That's it for this week. I hope you enjoy exploring the various motif patterns I have posted. As usual, no payments of any kind have been given to me to post these links. Everybody's too broke for that nonsense;)

_enjoy_

FM Labor Day

I'm still working on Aidain's afghan. I am about 3/5 of the way finished. I can't wait to see how it turns out, it's the first time I tried this pattern and so far, I really like it.
I have a mixed bag of info for you today, so let's get started.


_Not_ a freebie but a class you can take to learn about selling your crochet designs. It's $50, it's online and it's taught by Mary Beth Temple. I know, $50 seems like a lot for a class, but consider how helpful it will be to have a professional teach you how to prepare your pattern for publication. Sounds like a good investment to me.
http://www.hookedforlifepublishing.com/onlineclass.html


This blog about a visitor's experience of the hyperbolic crochet exhibit in Australia
http://trishalandesigns.blogspot.com/2009/09/crafters-way-107-crochet.html

Here's an article about "yarn wars" in Canada. No, it's not local shops having a price war (I can dream, can't I;))
http://www2.canada.com/vancouvercourier/news/story.html?id=ddca1c3b-35d1-4571-ae65-869f52a6f6b6


This article by Kim Guzman made me realize that when you substitute manmade fibers for natural fibers, you will definitely run into a fitting problem.
http://www2.canada.com/vancouvercourier/news/story.html?id=ddca1c3b-35d1-4571-ae65-869f52a6f6b6

Noreen Crone-Findlay creates a crochet goddess of upcycling. Cute, especially with the zippers.
http://www.blisstree.com/hankeringforyarn/crocheted-goddess-of-upcycling-doll/

Here's a very cute afghan, it's called a bunny slope snuggli (think skiing, not Thumper)
http://jaybirddesigns.blogspot.com/2009/09/free-crochet-pattern-bunny-slope.html


Rachel Choi comes thru with a crochet pencil case pattern. You could probably use it for glasses. too
http://www.crochetspot.com/free-crochet-pattern-back-to-school-pencil-case/


There's no people like snowpeople - especially crochet snowpeople
http://www.favecrafts.com/Christmas-Crafts/Crochet-Snowman-Family-from-Bernat#

Want to make something fancy for a swap or yourself. Here's how to make fancy crochet stitch markers
http://e1.interweave.com/dm?id=7F961284108FB5A87672EF075A466371B675C59E1385BC44

Mary is a very busy woman and she can't be everywhere. But luckily for us, there are "Everything Mary" tutorials
http://www.crochetsoiree.com/objects/view/30832/


I found this to be a very intriguing pattern stitch for a dishcloth - big enough to see if you like it, small enough to finish if you're not thrilled with it
http://dishclothcorner.blogspot.com/2008/04/crochet-garterlac-dishcloth.html

This panda crochet-along combines Tammie Snow's talents with brushing yarn.
http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2009/09/crochet-along_fuzzy_panda_amig.html

That's it for today. As usual, no kickbacks, bailouts, payola or the hint of a gift was involved in making this list.

_enjoy_

FM 8/10/09

The picture above was taken at the Toy Museum at Natural Bridge, Virginia. They have a lot of modern toys (South Park, Teenage Mutant Turtles, Barbies) but these are the only two toys that appear to be hand made from yarn. I don't know if the stitching in the larger doll shows up well but it looked like a combination of knit and crochet. The little yarn doll is similar to the thread dolls Noreen Crone-Findlay makes.http://www.blisstree.com/hankeringforyarn/busting-stress-with-old-time-thread-dolls/


I'm back. I went to Virginia for a couple of days, got a picture of me and my honey with a tiger cub. I have to post it sometime, got to figure out to work ii in;)
The weather is great, the avocado pit is growing and all is right with the world. Okay, with my world. I plan to go shopping (in my stash) a little later to get the yarn I want for a project. I think I have more yarn than A.C. Moore and Michaels combined. The last few times I was at either place, I didn't buy any yarn at all. That's how you know the economy is in the toilet. I'd like to lie and say "oh no, I was not going to buy yarn at all" but why lie? I just couldn't find anything I liked in either store. I know, that's _weird_. Anyway....


How much yarn do you need for a project? I can't ever figure it out. And don't even try to go back and get the same lot number. But Lion Brand has figured it out:
http://www.lionbrand.com/faq/96.html?language=-En

Not a pattern, but an article about the stress reducing benefit of crocheting (and knitting). I know I always feel better after I crochet.
http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet/Knitting-and-Crochet-Tote-Releases-Stress

This is a very cute blog and video - check it out.
Fridge Critters: Where the Wild Things GO
http://woowork.blogspot.com/2009/08/fridge-critter-chelsea-chicken.html


There is a lot of tutorials on this site for almost anything you could need.
http://www.crochetsoiree.com/objects/view/30832/

How about a really cute granny square by SmoothFox?
http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/2009/08/smoothfoxs-cute-as-button-12-x-12.html

The "snuggie" is a bit deal though it probably won't be at the fall fashion shows;) They have even had a "Snuggie Pub Crawl" in Fells Point. (Of course I didn't go - I would have tripped over the snuggie;)) Here's an adult snuggle pattern and you can make it any color you want.
http://www.coatsandclark.com/cgi-bin/MsmGo.exe?grab_id=34&page_id=9439232&query=adult+snuggle&hiword=ADULTES+ADULTS+SNUGGLING+SNUGGLY+adult+snuggle+


Yeah, it's August and in my part of the world, summer is drawing to a close. But you can always use a summertime tote
http://www.coatsandclark.com/Crafts/Crochet/Projects/Magazines/CTJune0892+Summertime+Tote.htm


I thought this was really an amazing afghan - a personalized baby afghan Kim Guzman
http://www.crochetkim.com/patterns/perbaby.htm

But honestly, this is my pick for my great-nephew's afghan. I have looked thru books and online to find something I wanted to do that would be different than what I did for his two older brothers. So (drum roll please), a fish motif by by Eboni A. Francis and it looks fun and challenging. I will be sure to post a photo of it when I finish it (first I have to begin....). It's a fish motif.
http://in-a-pear-tree.blogspot.com/2008/08/crochet-fish-motif-finally.html


And just in case you want to know more about tessellations, here's a website for you
http://www.tessellations.org/

That wraps it up for this week. Of course, no economic stimulus passed my way for listing the sites. I'd take it but no one is offering anything - not even used Popsicle sticks.

_enjoy_

FM August 3, 2009

Well, hello again. We just turned our air conditioner on for the first time this week. It wasn't so much the heat, but of course the humidity. (I do live in Baltimore.) Not too much going on in my end of the world, but here's a tip for you - if you join Facebook, you can become a "fan" of Lion Brand Yarn. The advantage of that is you can get free shipping this weekend from Lion Brand.



Apparently, this free baby bib pattern looks a lot like a Ralph Lauren baby bib that is going for $85. I can't imagine paying $85 for a baby bib, but that's me.
http://www.craftown.com/baby/pat8.htm



And now for something completely different, a teddy bear hat
http://kierakrafts.wordpress.com/2007/11/12/teddy-bears-attack/


Maybe you want to try crocheting a portrait - Todd Paschall has 3 celebrities for you to crochet (Walter Cronkite, Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson)
http://crochetbynumbers.com/FREE-PATTERNS.html

I thought this crochet trivet was pretty neat and there are some other nice patterns, too. http://www.craftleftovers.com/blog/archives/1565

Or how about a crochet ice dragon
http://crochetme.com/patterns/baby-snow-dragon

got goldfish? Well, you can have gold or any other color fish you want with this quick goldfish pattern
http://www.crochetspot.com/crochet-pattern-goldfish-applique/


That's about it for today. I considered making an afghan for someone at work that I sort of knew, but not well. Than I took a look around and saw all the pregnant young women at work and realized "hey, I don't want to make a lot of baby afghans". After all, if I did it for one person, I'm sure I'd have a lot more friendly co-workers, most people like baby afghans. So I decided instead to do a turtle, Quicker, easier and not a huge problem if I had to make 4 or 5 more.

As usual, I don't get any special considerations for posting these links. Who can afford anything special? (and yes, the list is getting smaller - harder for me to find free patterns)....

_enjoy_

FM July 27, 2009

Hello again. My tomatoes are just beginning to ripen, the daylilies are still blooming and the roses are (surprise) still blooming. Usually by this time, the heat has caused them to blow out. And speaking of roses.....

Here's a crochet flower pin with button
http://craftapalooza.typepad.com/crafted/2009/07/crochet-button-flowers.html

that is based on Lion Brand crochet roses
http://www.lionbrand.com/cgi-bin/faq-search.cgi?store=/stores/eyarn&faqKey=492&language=

and to top it off, Lion Brand's pattern for an Irish lace crochet shawl
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/80771AD.html?noImages=
Pretty cool, huh?

There was a list of amigurami toys and tutorials posted here:
http://amilist.blogspot.com/http://amilist.blogspot.com/

I happened upon this blog by accident, but thought the blogger had a great idea - check it out
http://nikkishell.typepad.com/wardroberefashion/2009/07/thank-you-crochet.html

I know some people wear hats all the time, so if you're in the middle of summer or winter, this is a lightweight crochet beanie tutorial
http://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/lightweight_crochet_beanie

Or how about something you can wear anytime - a crochet headband
http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2009/07/craft_pattern_podcast_crochet_4.html


I've posted M's Bailey's beautiful work before, here is more of it (no patterns, just beautiful photos)
http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2009/07/crochet_art_exhibit_from_xenob.html

If you're in the Lauderhill Florida section of the world, you might want to check this out http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/gallery/2009/jul/23/star-wars-exhibition
Not quite sure why it's referenced by a British publication, but why not?


Paton has some new free patterns posted
http://www.patonsyarns.com/pattern.php?NEW_PATTERNS=1


Well, that's it for me for today. I hope you have a good week

_enjoy_

May Fourth (be with you) FM

I know, I know, it's a terrible pun. But my beloved told it to me, so of course I couldn't resist passing it along. I enjoyed the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival Saturday, but somehow I managed not to buy any yarn. I'm not quite sure how that was even possible for me, the yarn was gorgeous but not quite what I was looking for (I guess...). I am working on a pink baby afghan (still) I'm about a third of the way thru it. And of course, making preemie caps.....

Not a pattern, but it's Herrschners (www.herrschners.com)free shipping (with $35 or more purchase) good until May 31, 2009 , Code D25


Here's today's freebie crochet patterns

Here's a crochet box
http://www.crochetspot.com/free-crochet-pattern-box/

That you could use to put in Noreen Crone-Findlay's buillion jewelry creations

Buillion stitch tutorial
http://www.blisstree.com/hankeringforyarn/how-to-crochet-bullion-stitches/

first part of crochet bracelet tutotial
http://www.blisstree.com/hankeringforyarn/crocheted-bullion-stitch-bracelet-1/

how to add findings to crochet jewelry
http://www.blisstree.com/hankeringforyarn/how-to-add-findings-to-a-crocheted-bracelet/

and last but certainly not least, a crochet flower
http://www.blisstree.com/hankeringforyarn/topic/tutorial/

All the above is from Hankering for Yarn, M's Crone-Findlay's blog.

How about another crochet flower - a crochet aster from Lion Brand
http://www.lionbrand.com/cgi-bin/faq-search.cgi?store=/stores/eyarn&faqKey=487&language=

This is something new from Leisure Arts - the Crochet Soiree from Leisure Arts
http://www.crochetsoiree.com/


Here's something cute and "retro" a smiley face afghan square
http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/2009/04/free-cool-smiley-face-square-7-x-7.html

from Planet June. crochet roses
http://mail.google.com/mail/?shva=1#inbox/120f869cf2b5e42a

How about a crochet cardigan from Berocco
http://www.berroco.com/exclusives/aruna/aruna.html


Paton tea cozy
http://www.patonsyarns.com/newsletters/apr2009/ClassicWool_Web_TeaCozy.pdf?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_content=TeaCozyPDF&utm_campaign=PatonsApril2009

Karen D prayer shawl pattern
http://karendcreations.blogspot.com/


octopus key chain tutorial
http://knittingdragonflies.blogspot.com/search/label/Free%20octopus%20pattern%20tutorial

As usual, I receive no bailout from anyone for posting these links. It's okay if somebody wants to offer me one;) but I don't think that's going to happen.

FM 2/9/09

I'm baaaack....oh, wait, I wasn't gone, was I? Today is a beautiful 65 degrees and it's supposed to be nice all this week. Next week we'll probably have a foot of snow, but we'll worry about that when it gets here....

I love the "Suncatcher Eyes" for toys and I think this "Noggins pattern" is pretty cool. I'm not hip or with it so I don't know if "Noggins" is something on tv or what....It's still cute...
http://www.suncatchereyes.net/Noggins%20Crochet%20Pattern.html

Yes, I know Valentine's Day is this week. I still have no idea what to get for my beloved. Vut this would be a cute gift for a friend - a small heart pattern
http://kcrochet.blogspot.com/

This is one of the cutest dolls I have seen and I'm not really a doll person. I love the way the hair looks and you can customize it to suit whoever you give it to (or yourself) - an amigurumi doll
http://stitch.hellooperator.net/free-patterns/amigurumi-doll/

Lion Brand makes the Valentine's free crochet patterns with two toys - a heartfelt bunny
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/80018AD.html?noImages=

and a heartfelt bear:
http://cache.lionbrand.com/printablePatterns/80019AD.pdf

and if you want to get more involved, here's the one stitch adult crochet cardigan from Lion Brand:
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/957.html

I do know this is the name of a children's book - "If You Give A Pig A Pancake".....
http://www.beansproutcreations.com/2009/01/08/pig-and-her-pancake-free-pattern/
wonder how it would translate to a bunny and a pancake;)

I think this is really sweet. At my wedding to my beloved, I crocheted a penguin groom and bride for the cake top....
http://bittersweetblog.wordpress.com/2009/01/19/not-quite-duck-pins/

February is also "Wear Red for Heart Disease" month - here's a pin you can make up quickly:
http://suzies-yarnie-stuff.blogspot.com/2009/02/suzies-red-dress-pin.html
To find out more about the number one killer of women - heart disease, not breast cancer,
check this link outhttp://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/02/06/wear.red.heart.irpt/

and also from Suzie's Yarnie stuff, a pattern for a rectangle granny afghan:
http://suzies-yarnie-stuff.blogspot.com/2006/08/rectangle-granny-afghan-pattern_11.html


"Woman's Day" magazine has some crochet patterns online. I really miss the "old days" when a woman's magazine was about more than what diet to be on & what jeans to wear to make me look 10 years younger. I really liked "Woman's Day" articles around Christmas time about different presents a person could make. I doubt those days will come back, but this is a nice start:
http://www.womansday.com/Articles/Crafts/Crocheting/8-Cozy-Crochet-Crafts.html?cid=5385


This would be cute for a belt...and maybe it will make your jeans look 10 years younger;)
http://www.orble.com/free-scrap-yarn-medallion-crochet-pattern/

I thought this was pretty cool - a tiny crochet angel. You could use it to make angel earrings.
http://www.orble.com/free-tiny-angel-crochet-pattern/

And now for something a bit different - an apple keychain
http://mycrochetstuff.blogspot.com/2009/02/apple-keychain-free-crochet-pattern.html

Roxycraft offers a free pattern for hearts done Roxycraft style:
http://www.roxycraft.com/crochet_hearts.htm

As usual, I get no breaks, special coinsiderations, favors, money, yarn or anything else to post these sites. I'd take a bribe, but than I'd have to pay taxes on it and that would be a mess for my accountant.
_enjoy_

FM 12/29/08

Hope you had a lovely holiday and spent some quality time with your loved ones and got what you wanted....or got gift certificates so you can get what you want;)

These classes aren't free - some are $10, some are $30. But for a chance to learn taprestry and beading or find out how to design for publication, they are definitely worth checking out. And for the wannabe threadies, there's a class in filet crochet
http://www.crochetville.org/forum/classes.php


I know the _last_ thing you want to think about is crocheting for Christmas. I can't say I blame you. But look at this as an easy pattern to do in the spring or summer, being lightweight and easy to carry along. Plus you can use it as an ornament, sew a garland together or use it as featured, in a card....
http://my-pattern.blogspot.com/2008/12/silhoute-of-angel.html
A reindeer from Lion Brand
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/70707AD.html?noImages=

and a few more from Lion Brand
Lion Brand teddy bear - you could dress him up for any holiday by changing the bow...
http://www.lionbrand.com/cgi-bin/patternView.fcgi?itemKey=1922242982

and a Siamese cat
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/80444AD.html?noImages=


I thought this was really cute - pixie dolls
http://strngbn.tripod.com/pixies.html


After the year I've had, I think I_need_ a pocket angel and I can think of a few more people who do. I bet you can, too...
http://esunbeams.com/knittycat/patterns/knittycatsPocketAngel-knitandcrochetversions.pdf

Now another wonderful pattern by Teresa Richardson - the "galaxy stitch" scarf pattern by
http://crochet-mania.blogspot.com/2008/12/galaxy-stitch-crochet-winter-scarf.html


These fingerless gloves seem more suited to a male than the previous pattern links I have posted.
http://www.steigerbeat.com/patternbf.html

A crochet mitten pattern
http://www.garnstudio.com/lang/en/visoppskrift.php?d_nr=104&d_id=30&lang=us

and you can make a matching headband / ear warmer from the same site
http://www.garnstudio.com/lang/en/visoppskrift.php?d_nr=104&d_id=20&lang=us

A cute smiley baby toy for a cute smiley baby
http://members.iglou.com/mantia/crafts/smile.html


Here's something I never thought of - an afghan from old wool sweaters
http://prettypennydesign.typepad.com/my_weblog/2008/12/how-to-make-an-afghan-in-a-weekend-if-you-dont-have-kids-.html

And something else I have never seen - ripple tube socks
http://loveyarn1984.blogspot.com/

As usual, I receive no payola for any of these listings.
Here's hoping you have a safe happy new year holiday and a good 2009.

P.S. I am in the process of updating some of the blog sites on the side., This week I updated the "Crochet With Dee" site, so if you're trying to see her site, now you can....

fm 10/13/08

Happy Thanksgiving to the Canadians in the audience. Lucky you, you're going to be eating turkey:)

There's a few things that aren't freebies, so let's get them out of the way right now.

If you're so inclined, I have put a button up (on the right hand side) for a donation for the "Race for the Cure"in Baltimore. It's next week, so I'm not quite sure if my doc will let me walk the mile or so. I signed up for it before I realized I'd be in the stinky boot so long. The money doesn't go to me, it goes directly to "Race for The Cure" which is working to find a cure for breast cancer. I've walked it almost every year, but not so sure about this one because of the broken leg. We;ll see what the doc says on Friday.

Peter Franzi (Hookerbear Creations) does some besutiful patterns - even for larger sizes. Until December 31, 2008, he is offering his great patterns at half price. Plus they are in a pdf form, so there's immediate gratification for thos of us who are pattern addicts. Check it out:
http://hooker-bear.com/

Here's something amazing (to me) - okay, it's not a freebie, but it really doesn't look that hard to make the Saks "Pacific Hobo Bag":
http://www.zappos.com/n/p/p/7509071.html

Thinking maybe the next few months will ruin your diet? Here's a suggestion for you - an amigurami food swap:
http://www.swap-bot.com/swap/show/22986

And to get you started, a pattern for amigurami candy corn
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/80763AD.html?noImages=

This is a very pretty hat done in bulky yarn:
http://freshwaterfibers.blogspot.com/2008/10/bulky-crochet-hat-pattern.html

In honor of my two new kittens, Braveheart and Heidi, here's a cute kitten filet chart:
http://stylish-crochet.blogspot.com/2008/10/filet-crochet-kitten-chart-1.html

This patten is called "Divine Cap" and it really is quite divine - check out the other patterns on the site, too.
http://rheatheylia.com/index.php?page=patterns&id=0

Need a crochet Christmas tree here you go:
http://www.mypicot.com/christmas_crochet_patterns04.html

This is one of my faves because I have trouble working with thread - snowflakes using "woolen yarn"
http://www.mypicot.com/christmas_crochet_patterns04.html

But for those of you who do work with thread, here's some lovely thread snowflakes:
http://www.mypicot.com/christmas_crochet_patterns01.html

The Art of Crochet makes an appearance again with these crochet slippers on You Tube.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jUBskG-6V8

Want to learn how to make some beautiful lace - check out the basic Bruges lace shown here:
http://crochet-mania.blogspot.com/

As ususal, I don't get any payola from the sites mentioned here. I'd accept it but since I mention the sites for free, why would anyone pay me?
_Enjoy_

FM 9/22/08

It's almost fall (in my neck of the woods) as I write this, so I think some scarf patterns are in order:


Here's something that you don't see everyday - unique and beautiful - a spiral scarf
http://kierakrafts.wordpress.com/2008/09/18/spiral-scarf/

What if you, like me, get a cold neck very easily? or maybe you just don't want the scarf to hang down where it could get tangles in something? Here's the perfect scarf pattern for you, the unisex neck scarf.
http://wendydoescrochet.blogspot.com/2008/09/unisex-neck-sock.html

If you're interested, the "Red Scarf Project" has begun again and is looking for donations. Here's the info on it
http://orphan.org/index.php?id=40


Or maybe you're looking for something to decorate your home? How about a filet crochet heart pattern?
http://thecrochetstudio.com/blog/2008/09/15/filet-crochet-heart-pattern-now-available/


You've probably seen curly fringe on various items - here's a tutorial to help you learn how to make itl
http://yarnkrazy.wordpress.com/2008/09/14/curly-fringe-tutorial-with-pics/

This is quite lovely, it's a crochet butterfly motif - check it out.
http://crochet-mania-grannysquare.blogspot.com/2008/09/crochet-butterfly-motif-variation-b.html
I have 2 new kittens, bringing the total number of cats in my house up to four (again). Since Heidi and Braveheart (the newbies) are stealing my scrunchies to play with, I should probably make this for them, some crochet sardine cat toys
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/80061AD.html?noImages=

or maybe a cute mouse for them to play with? Hopefully with four cats, I wouldn't have a mouse problem....
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/80060AD.html?noImages=


As ususal, no bribes were given to me to post this info. I wish somebody would try to bribe me, but so far, nobody has;)
_enjoy_

FM 9/15/08

What a week! I celebrated (?) International Crochet Day by going to the leg doctor's and wearing my capris with the crocheted flowers on them. I crocheted preemie hats while waiting for the appointment. I even wore one of my t-shirts from my Cafe' Press shop. But that didn't have anything to do with the outcome - I _still_ have to wear the boot for another 5 weeks (too bad it's not a pirate boot). But on the bright side, at least it's my leg and not my hand.\

Some important news for pet owners - there has been (another) pet food recall. This includes pet food from Wal-Mart as well as Wegman's store brand. Some brands are Old Roy, Special Kitty, Pedigree and Buju and Ziggie. This petfood can cause Salmonella serotype Schwarzengrund in your pets. Please check this site: http://www.petcare.mars.com/

On a sad note, "Essentia" will no longer be publishing a newsletter. L'Tanya Durante is part of "the sandwich generation" (as many folks are) and is not able to keep up with it. I wish M's Durante the best of luck in her future endeavors and I am happy to see that M's Durante does have a new craft blog. Here it is: http://www.craftnicity.com/

On with the show
If you have ever listened to "Dr Demento" on the radio, you'll know that September 19th of every year is "Talk Like a Pirate Day". To find out a little more about it, here's a link
http://www.talklikeapirate.com/piratehome.html

What's that got to do with Freebie Monday? Well, there's a bit of a theme going on here...

These 2 patterns are for _sale_ not for free, but you might feel compelled to buy them to celebrate Talk Like A Pirate Day
Interweave Press Crochet Dread Pirate Sam (unless you have the edition with this pattern in it) http://shop.interweave.com/Crochet-Dread-Pirate-Sam-P202C59.aspx
and Scurvy Pirate pattern for sale
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6355011

This one is a freebie pattern from Lion Brand, a crochet pirate pal.
http://cache.lionbrand.com/patterns/70445AD.html

Or how about a Crochet Captain Teddy?
http://crochetme.com/patterns/captain-cute-pirate-teddy

here's a few links that aren't related to pirates.

This is a beautiful beaded crochet collar pattern.
http://www.pattern-making.com/crochet/beaded-crochet-collar

And at the same site, a crochet butterfly doily pattern.
http://www.pattern-making.com/crochet/crochet-butterfly-doily/

Here's a little something to dress up your little black dress:
http://www.berroco.com/exclusives/liza/liza.html

This is an incredibly cute scarf pattern - all hearts
http://pepperberry.typepad.com/my_weblog/conversation-hearts-scarf.html


I can't remember if I posted this or not - if I did, sorry, but here it is again, a crochet along with Lion Brand
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/20124AD.html


As usual, I receive no booty for listing these sites. I'd take some, but nobody's offering;)
_enjoy_

FM 6/16/08

Here we go again, a nice little mix....

http://www.black-purl-magazine.com/NEWS-061308.htm
The new "Essentia" magazine is online.

http://www.crochetmemories.com/newsletters/newsletter.html
The new Crochet Corner newsletter is also online.

2nd blogiversary contest
Planet June is having a contest to win one of her patterns or a mouse she has made herself - very cute. If you're like me and can't decide between the mouse and the pattern, don't worry - just post twice to enter both contests.

http://www.garnstudio.com/lang/en/visoppskrift.php?d_nr=0&d_id=428&lang=en
It's been a little warm here in the MD area and somehow sewing worsted weight motifs together doesn't seem too appealing. Here's a lighter pattern.

http://www.coatsandclark.com/Crafts/Crochet/Projects/Accessories/WR1661+Crochet+Buttonon+Trims+for+Crocs.htm
If you are one of the folks who wear Crocs (or "Croc like" shoes), you can make them a bit fancier by using some of these trims. My beloved won't let me make any for his Crocs;)

http://www.friendshipshawl.org/patterns.html
Since it's vacation time for lots of folks, maybe you'd like a quicker project to work on - this, of course, is a link for a friendship shawl pattern.

http://leisurearts.com/customer_care/download_files/N_06_08_CrochetStole.pdf
Another link for a friendship shawl pattern.

http://www.crochetville.org/forum/archive/index.php/t-2815.html
And another link for a shawl pattern, this one is a butterfly shawl pattern.

http://sofar-sogood.blogspot.com/2008/06/peace-granny.html
Do you want to crochet for peace? Here's a really cool crocheted square. a peace sign.

http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/80211AD.html?noImages=0
Maybe you are preparing for a wedding at this time and can't figure out what type of wedding favors to have. Lion Brand has a few patterns for a wedding favor sachet. I can't imagine crocheting them for a really large guest list, but I'm sure there are more ambitous people than I am out there.

http://crochet.about.com/od/squaresbysize/a/crksq2clr.htm?nl=1
This is a strange little square and I think I will try this pattern out for a baby afghan...it would definitely be different....

http://crochet.about.com/od/bytype/a/zigzag.htm?nl=1
Okay, so maybe crocheted squares don't float your boat. How about some ripple patterns?

http://web.archive.org/web/20050208122000/http://grandmashookery.com/religious/supper.html
I have seen this "Last Supper" pattern made in filet crochet. (It was hung in a nursing home I visited for my job.) It is absolutely amazing to look at and takes up a ton of time. Check it out.

As always, I receive no payment or special consideration from the sites I have listed.
_enjoy_

FM 6/2/08

There's a neat online publication that's called "Canadian Living". It often has crochet patterns. Here's one for you:
http://www.canadianliving.com/crafts/crochet/crocheted_halter_top_and_shawl.php

This link is not a freebie but I really like it. If I can find a few plastic geese, I think I'd have a perfect gift for my sister-in law. (Did I ever post the story about the "drive by scarfing" incident?) Here it is, costumes to dress your goose....
http://collins-ottinger.com/

This is a very pretty afghan pattern. It is the blogger's own and her favorite afghan pattern:
http://pumamouse.com/crochetmyfavorite.html

I know, I know - who wants to think of an afghan (at least in the North America area) when it's warm out. But this is quite pretty, you can work it up a few motifs at a time and you won't sweat to death doing it.
http://www.artoftangle.com/free_patterns.htm

This is an oldie but a goodie - a "hobo bag" by Lion Brand.
http://crochet.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?zi=1/XJ/Ya&sdn=crochet&cdn=hobbies&tm=30&f=21&tt=14&bt=0&bts=1&zu=http%3A//joann.lionbrand.com/patterns/ckc-tote.html

Purple Kitty has done it again. I find lobsters funny and this potholder is pretty cool. Or you could adapt the lobster pattern and sew it on a bag - maybe the hobo bag?
http://www.freevintagecrochet.com/potholders/lobster.html


A ribbed sock pattern:
http://www.planetshoup.com/easy/crochet/ribsox.shtml

As usual, I don't get any kickbacks from any of these people for listing their sites here. I'd take kickbacks, I'm not proud, but apparently everyone is watching their money;)

By the way, June 14 is "Knitting / Crocheting in Public Day". I'm not sure what my parents' anniversary has to do with public displays of needlework, but there you are. I happened to be watching an Oriole versus Yankee baseball game and saw a few people knitting in the stands.
(Of course, the Orioles lost because_ I _was watching, doing my own version of "Pitch and Stitch" at home.)

_enjoy_

just another Freebie Monday

it's all not free patterns, folks;) some are just cool websites...

Looking for some Halloween crochet? This site has plenty of free patterns:
.http://crochet.about.com/b/a/257679.htm

And this one does have a pretty cool pattern for a starghan (a round ripple afghan). It doesn't show the holes the way a normal ripple afghan does. The blogger said she invented a new stitch, but it's better if she explains it than me.
http://inspiredcrochetdesign.blogspot.com/2007/10/free-pattern-chromium-star-blanket.html

I don't know who Twinkie is, but apparently "everybody" is talking about her. I always thought that was a snack cake, but I guess I'm wrong:
http://crochet.craftgossip.com/everbodys-talking-about-twinkie/2007/10/05/


I love Stitchy McYarnpants. It's just so funny. And I have to admit that yes, I did crochet some of those designs back in my wilder days. But hey, it was the '70s, all the other crocheters were doing it, and I thought just a little bit wouldn't hurt anybody. Now I see I was wrong;)
http://stitchymcyarnpants.com/knit06/

If you seen the floors in my house, the statement I'm about to make won't shock you. I don't have a Swiffer wet mop thingie. But apparently a lot of people do and some crochet the cover instead of using the little covers you have to buy for it.
http://diynamite.com/2007/10/16/crochet-swiffer-cover/
--

How about some Lion Brand Halloween crochet - here goes a pirate. It looks fairly easy to me....
http://cache.lionbrand.com/patterns/70445AD.html?noImages=


Again, I don't get a kickback or payola from any of these people. I'd take it, but nobody offers;)

_enjoy_

summer doldrums

Oh, I have been crocheting a bit, but not a lot. I finished a scarf for "Survivors Offer Support" , it's more for "show", it's a Lion Brand pattern, I think it's called "Potato Chip Scarf".

http://cache.lionbrand.com/patterns/50370.html?noImages=

I've also been making preemie hats, but that's my usual thing.
A classical pops station on Sirius Radio did a "Christmas in July" special on July 25.

http://www.sirius.com/servlet/ContentServer?pagename=Sirius/CachedPage&c=Page&cid=1018209032790

I was thinking "Christmas! You got to be kidding!" But for crocheters (and other crafters) you do have to think about it early. Okay, so I thought about it;) I have no hints or tips to help anybody figure out what to make for Christmas (or any other holiday, for that matter), so if you got any thoughts, just send them on in. Here's a site that offers some free Christmas crochet patterns:
http://www.crochetpatterncentral.com/directory/christmas.php


Payton update:
He is coming along well. The 98 Rock trip raised a nice amount of money for him and there is a motorcycle ride for his benefit tomorrow. Unfortunately, we did receive some unsettling news - the teens that committed the crime are now going to be charged as juveniles.
http://wjz.com/local/local_story_206121240.html

preemie hat pattern

I keep my 2007 "Crochet Pattern a Day" calendar at my desk. I sort of forgot that July 12 was the date my pattern would appear. So I thought I'd post it here, for anyone and everyone. Please do not claim this pattern as yours, I hold the copyright. If you want to make the hats and donate them, that's fine by me. Please do not repost this pattern to your website, just send any inquiries you might have to this website. I thank you in advance for your co-operation and I hope many of you will be making preemie hats to donate.

##########################################################
Here's the pattern:

Skill level: C3 - intermediate
Fiber: Red Heart - Baby Sport Pompadour (I also use Lion Brand "Jamie", but this happened to be done in the Red Heart Baby Sport)
Color #1046 Carousel Print
Gauge: 5 stitches x 2 rows = 1 inch/2.5cm in dc
Hook size: steel E US/3.5mm
Notions: Yarn Needle
Stitches used: chain, slip stitch, single crochet, double crochet

Round 1: Chain 6, join with a slip stitch, chain 2. Double crochet 11 double crochets into the ring, counting the chain 2 as a double crochet, equals 12 stitches. Join at top of chain 2 with a slip stitch.
Round 2: Chain 2, double crochet in round 1's chain 2 stitch, 2 double crochets in each stitch around, counting the starting chain 2 stitch as a double crochet equals 24 double crochets. Join with a slip stitch to top of the chain 2 stitch.
Round 3: Chain 2, double crochet in round 2's chain 2 stitch, *1 double crochet in next stitch, 2 double crochets in next stitch all the way around, counting the starting chain 2 stitch as a double crochet equals 36 stitches. Join with a slip stitch to top of the chain 2 stitch.
Round 4: Chain 2, double crochet in round3's chain 2 stitch, *1 double crochet in next 2 stitches, 2 double crochets in next stitch, all the way around, counting the starting chain 2 stitch as a double crochet equals 48 stitches. Join with a slip stitch to top of the chain 2 stitch.
Round 5-9: Chain 2, double crochet in each double crochet around. Join with a slip stitch to top of the chain 2 stitch.
Round 10: Chain 5, double crochet in second double crochet from hook from joining chain, *chain 1, skip 1 double crochet, double crochet in the next double crochet all the way around. Join with a slip stitch to top of the chain 2 stitch.
Round 11: Chain 4, single crochet in second chain from hook, single crochet in next 2 chains, attach to round 10 by slip stitching to chain 1 space *working in back loops only, single crochet in each of the 3 single crochets, chain 1, turn, single crochet in each of the 3 single crochets, attach to round 10 by slip stitching to chain 1 space all the way around, total 48 rows. Slip stitch the ribbing together by working thru the back loop of row 48 and the bottom of the chain for the first row of single crochets.

Break off and weave in ends.

Chain stitch 90, fasten off, weave in ends. Thread the chain 90 thru round 10. Make a small bow.

################################################################

I was very fortunate never to have a premature baby. But my mom did in the early 1950's. There wasn't a lot that could be done at that time and the baby died (many complications). This baby boy was spoken about very rarely - it was the way it was done at that time. My sister-in-law is a nurse at the NICU and I give her the hats to distribute. She does tell people she made them;) but that's okay - as long as they get to the right place.

Another freebie

I know Annie's Attic does a free crochet pattern a day
http://www.anniesattic.com/free_pattern_day/index.html
and there's some very cool patterns there. The other day Annie's Attic featured a pattern by one of my friends, Angel Rhett - and that was very cool. (I've crocheted for Angel before)...

but here's another one:

Click here: Free Crochet Pattern of the Day from The Daily Crocheter


so now you have at least _2_ free patterns to check out a day:) That's always a good thing.

And since we're on the subject of free patterns, I particularly like Lion Brand Yarns website.
here's their link:http://www.lionbrand.com/content-crochetPatternIndex.html
They have some great free patterns. I have to tell you that when I buy Lion Brand Yarns, I not only search for the dye lot number, but also I check out the patterns. I have been known to buy a skein of yarn I wasn't that interested in (color wise) because of the pattern on the sleeve. Stupid, I know, but if you ever searched for their sock pattern or the famous "tiny teddy", you know what I mean.

Speaking of Lion Brand Yarns, Jo-ann Fabrics is having a yarn sale at their stores. I purchased a few skeins of "Mystery" because this was the first time I remember seeing it and it was on sale to boot. As the clerk rang up the sale, she stated that Jo-ann's wouldn't be carrying that particular color anymore. I don't know if some colors are being phased out, but I thought "good grief, they are discontinuing yarn before I even have a chance to try it out". How can that even be possible? Are I just slow to catch on to the new yarn? Or do the companies get rid of yarn a lot quicker than they once did?

By the way, I don't get any kickback from any company I mentioned. I'd take it in supplies;)

Payton update:
He is recovering from the broken arm nicely. Hopefully, he will soon be able to enjoy his new playground in his back yard.