*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_

FM 10/19/09

This is the fish for Aidain. I basically followed the motif pattern, using 2 strands of worsted weight yarn instead of one and putting one extra row of single crochet between the each of the original patterns. Obviously, it made it much bigger. I used one skein of the Caron Simply Bright and the other skein was the Red Heart Banana berry. I crocheted the eyes and sewed them to the fish. I wasn't too thrilled with the eyes, but I didn't want to use felt or buttons/eyes simply because Aidain is only about 6 weeks old. But I still liked it.
I have another project lined up to do, but I want to make myself do a few little applique things prior to beginning the next crochet project. I wear a navy blur lab jacket for work and it's boring. So I bought a few from Ebay (I didn't want to do anything to the company supplied jacket) and decided to "pimp" the pockets. One lab jacket has pink ribbon appliques on it. I plan to iron on a pink rhinestone ribbon on the same pocket. The other plans are sunflower appliques and butterfly appliques. It occurred to me that I could crochet the items after I already purchased the appliques. I'm thinking I may get a few more and make a snowman applique to put on the pockets. But that's for later.

Now it's time for some free patterns:
A beautiful pattern from Noreen Crone-Findlay - a crochet wire bracelet
http://www.blisstree.com/hankeringforyarn/crocheted-wire-bracelet-with-vintage-button/


I may have posted this before - or maybe I didn't. But I liked it so here it is, a
flower blanket from Caron's website:
http://www.caron.com/projects/op/op_flower_throw.html

The Crochet Dude has a pink ribbin purse on his site - it's cute, check it out
http://blog.thecrochetdude.com/2009/10/02/free-purse-pattern-pink-ribbin.aspx


As always, if you have cats, you must have cat toys. Yeah, I know everything is a toy for cats, but this is really a crochet cat toy
http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2009/09/just_a_few_yards_using_up_yarn_scraps.html?CMP=OTC-5JF307375954


It might be time for all of us who associate pine cones with winter holidays to start on this project from Planet M - crocheted pine cones
http://planetmfiles.com/2008/12/18/free-crochet-pine-cone-pattern/


Again, I'm not sure if I posted this or not, but I think it's fascinating. I'm trying to think in what lifetime I'd do all those little motifs but you never know -
crochet flower afghan from Berroco.
http://www.berroco.com/exclusives/cyanne/cyanne.html


It's close to Halloween, bow about some ami bats
http://fuzzyfeetworks.blogspot.com/2009/10/free-amigurumi-bats-pattern.html

A few more projects from the Caron site:
a vest
http://www.naturallycaron.com/projects/aurora/aurora_1.html

and a sweater
http://www.naturallycaron.com/projects/cushman/cushman_1.html


Here's another bat pattern for you:
bat pattern
http://shala-beads.livejournal.com/202913.html
And here's a blog that does Sunday freebies you might want to check out. It's Itsybitsyspider Crochet, it has a lot of good information on this blog:
http://itsybitsyspidercrochet.blogspot.com/search/label/Free%20Patterns


The usual disclaimer applies - I receive no special consideration or renumration for posting these sites. I keep saying I'm not proud, I would accept it but I guess no one wants to insult my integrity;)

_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 June 29, 2009

It's been hot and humid, but what else can you expect from Baltimore in the summer? I had some plans to work on some crochet, it just didn't pan out. You know how life is, sometimes a few days attack you at once;)

I thought this was weird - and no, it's _not_ Lady Linoleum's crocheted eyeball
http://www.instructables.com/id/Crocheted-Eyeball/

here's a crochet class being given online by Planet June at Crochetville. I don't know if there's a chanrge but I'm sure it's worth checking out if you can.
http://www.planetjune.com/blog/crochet-class-african-violets/

I know in this section of the country, it's too warm to wear a hat. But Olivia's butterfly hat is great, check out the pattern.
http://vallieskids.blogspot.com/2009/06/olivias-butterfly.html


And since we're looking at hats, how about a baby hat?
http://chickenstitches.blogspot.com/2009/05/baby-in-bloom-hat.html

I thought this flower motif square was pretty cool.
http://craftybegonia.blogspot.com/2009/06/flowerful-crochet-motif-and-sumer-shell.html

And this one is a majestic flower motif by Teresa
http://crochet-mania.blogspot.com/2009/06/majestic-crochet-flower-motif-bullion.html

Noreen Crone-Findlay discusses clutter
http://www.blisstree.com/hankeringforyarn/surrendering-to-the-joys-of-studio-clutter/

Here's a pattern for a Granny's attic afghan
http://www.crochetmagazine.com/newsletters/pages/TCNL2009_patt1.html

Here's Mr/Ms chubby bunny really cute
http://zoriami.blogspot.com/2008/07/first-free-pattern.html

Yeah, it is too warm to wear a scarf, I agree. But it's a crochet ice cream cone scarf
http://cats-rockin-crochet.blogspot.com/2008/04/crochet-ice-cream-cone-scarf.html

This seems unbelievable to me, but apparently there is a pattern for a hat for a cat. I thought it was for a pattern of a hat that looks like a cat. if you make this, I hope you have a very tolerant cat or very good health insurance
http://www.wikihow.com/Crochet-a-Cat-Hat

As usual, no special consideration is received for the mention of any of these sites. The local emergency rooms would probably prefer I don't mention the cat hat site, but your cat might be more co-operative than mine.
By the way, Happy Canada Day as well as Happy 4th of July!
_enjoy_

FM June 1, 2009

Happy Blogversary to me! It's been 4 years since I have been posting on Blogger. I did have a blog on AOL (same name) but I don't think anyone was reading it. Thanks Teresa and Teena!
Because this is my Blogversary, I will be having a drawing for the book "Hooked: A Crocheter's Stash of Wit and Wisdom". It's an interesting read with essays by all sorts of crocheters - Jennifer Hansen, Noreen Crone-Findlay, Amy O'Neil Houck and many more. Just leave a comment and I will draw the name next Sunday and announce the winner next Monday. Unless nobody replies, than whoever posts first will get it....


Not a pattern but Vashti Braha has an excellent resource on tunisian / afghan stitch. I learned to do it when I was younger, but I really haven't done too much with the stitch. But this post made me rethink the tunisian stitch
http://designingvashti.blogspot.com/2009/05/fun-with-tunisian-crochet-aka-afghan.html

Double stitch crochet along inspired by Double Stitch: Designs for the Crochet Fashionista, a new book by Erika and Monika Simmons
http://doublestitch.blogspot.com/2009/05/north-suburban-knit-out-crochet-too.html

I would have never thought of this, but this lady makes crochet hats out of plastic bags
http://www.kfvs12.com/Global/story.asp?S=10439785&nav=menu51_2

Here's a crochet dog sweater pattern for your pooch:
http://crochetsoiree.blogspot.com/2009/05/free-patten-friday-dog-sweater.html


It's a bit warmer here in the US and this "brain freeze" pattern from the Crochet Dude might come in handy...
http://blog.thecrochetdude.com/2009/05/26/new-free-pattern--brain-freeze.aspx


A lovely crochet flower for you
http://debs1967.blogspot.com/2009/05/spiked-center-flower-applique-motif.html

Interweave giving away knitting, beading and quilting patterns. No, I don't know they don't have free crochet patterns, but it's a good question
http://www.knittingdaily.com/


Check this out - Monica Kennedy has a great website and has free patterns for round ripple afghans - this one is gorgeous
http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474977688297&grpId=3659174697252379

and she even has a preemie ripple pattern
http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.action?grpId=3659174697252379&articleId=281474977270508&nav=Groupspace

And she has video tutorials on how to crochet
http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474977696244

This is really cute - it's Suzetta Williams Hat of the Month
http://suzies-yarnie-stuff.blogspot.com/2009/05/suzies-fruit-cap-june-hotm-c.html

And last, but certainly not least, Crochet Corner has their first bimonthly issue out - you can read it here:
http://www.crochetmemories.com/newsletters/newsletter.html

And of course, I've received no economic incentive to post any of these sites....
_Enjoy_



--

FM 5/25/09

Not much going on here. I finally finished the turtle to go with the baby afghan and I cut the material for the curtains. It's been slow going crochet wise because, of course, it's crunch time at work. I work late and my hands hurt and I don't croceht all week, Stupid, really, because crochet relaxes me. But that's how it goes....

This is a funny video, you have to see it....."Craft Talk"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWVzIfUfjGk

I know I normally post sites for free crochet patterns, but come on, how could I resist this free chocolate site?
Click here: Mars Real Chocolate Relief Act


Eleanor Wilkinson of Valdese, North Carolina is the Artist of the Month with her crocheted stadium pillows.....
http://www2.morganton.com/content/2009/may/21/crocheting-family-members-evolves-artist-month-val/

I never seen this connection before - "frogging" (ripping out) and the zen of crochet?
http://www.capitalcityweekly.com/stories/052009/ae_442015901.shtml

Here's something very lovely for those upcoming brides - crochet bridal jewelry
http://www.craftstylish.com/item/47052/how-to-crochet-bridal-jewelry

When I say "brown and blue bracelet", it really doesn't sound attractive. However, just take a look at it - it's great
http://planetmfiles.com/2009/05/20/free-crochet-bracelet-pattern/

I know, thread dolls aren't really crochet. But, as Noreen Crone-Findlay proves, they are quite cute and easy to make...
http://www.blisstree.com/hankeringforyarn/busting-stress-with-old-time-thread-dolls/

In my area, rockfish fishing is a big deal. People charter boats at (to me) a nice chunk of change to do this. However, there is an easier way than getting up at 4am and wandering bleary eyed to the water...
http://resurrectionfern.typepad.com/resurrection_fern/2009/05/lets-make-fish-a-tutorial-for-making-a-rock-fish.html


No, I didn't forget Memorial Day. It is right and proper that we thank all the military personnel and their families for the sacrifice that allows freedom to exist.
So, for Memorial Day, I'm posting a call to help make armed forces blankets
http://www.rectangle6x9.org/

That's it from here. As usual, no special bailout funds have been given to me to list these site. Probably because the people who have these links know I would just take the money and buy more yarn with it (which I probably would - but I might buy some patterns or hooks, too;)).

_enjoy_

Freebie Monday May 18, 2009

Hello again. I finally finished the baby afghan and have to finish the pink and white turtle that goes with it. Actually, all I have to do is embroider a face, stuff it and sew it together, not that big a deal. But it's crunch time at work so I'm not sure if I'll finish it this week...

Let's start out with a few blogs to check out:

This is Prudence Mapstone's blog about a scumble a week
http://prudencemapstone.blogspot.com

In case you are interested in recycling your plastic bags into "plarn" - plastic yarn, here's a blog about that
http://plastiqrecreation.blogspot.com/

Not a pattern, but a cool blog...
http://thisyearsdozen.wordpress.com/

Vickie Howell has a new crochet book out and here's an interview with her
http://naughtysecretaryclub.blogspot.com/2009/05/crochet-conflab-with-vickie-howell.htm


The next three links are from Vashti Braha's blog - the first two are about crocheting with wire
http://designingvashti.blogspot.com/2009/05/free-crochet-pattern-for-mothers-day.html
http://designingvashti.blogspot.com/2009/05/using-crochet-jewelry-with-wire-free.html
and this link explains how to keep your crochet inspirations in a reasonable order. I'll write thoughts for patterns on a scrap of paper. I'll lose the scrap and find it much later, when I can't quite remember what I was trying to do. This is a much more formal way to keep track of inspiration, but my informal way isn't helping me.
http://designingvashti.blogspot.com/2009/05/how-to-journal-about-your-crochet-ideas.html


This was a tough winter in many ways. My houseplants got hit hard because it got cold and stayed cold early on. I lost a lot of cacti, unfortunately. But now I can crochet a few to brighten my work area - it's really cute.
http://amigurumipatterns.blogspot.com/2007/11/thank-you-little-cactus.html


If you're old enough, you may remember the ads for the "crazy daisy loom" on tv. You could order an afghan kit that included a flower loom. Now you may be able to pick them up at a yard sale or thrift store (or E-bay). Noreen Crone-Findlay has a tutorial on "vintage" flower looms. ("Vintage"?! I guess that makes me "vintage", too)
http://www.blisstree.com/hankeringforyarn/how-to-make-flowers-on-vintage-flower-looms/

I knew my younger niece was pregnant, but until today I didn't know if she was having a girl or a boy. I suspected she was having a boy and I was right. Now I got to figure out another boy baby afghan (I've made 2 baby boy afghans for her already)...so I'm thinking, maybe this will be the next baby afghan?
http://crochetme.com/patterns/dont-be-square-granny

or this?
http://www.craftyarncouncil.com/projects/animals.html
I don't know yet. I have to think some more about this. I've got until August, so hopefully something will impress me..
I could make a crochet bib, but that would have to be extra because I did make the other 2 boys and afghan.....
http://crochettogo.blogspot.com/2009/03/crocheted-bib.html

That's it for Freebie Monday this week. As usual, I do not get a penny from mentioning any of these people or any of these sites. I'm willing to be bribed, but who has the money for that these days;)

_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 11/3/08

Some of you may remember me posting about my great nephew, Payton, the little boy who slid down the slide that was covered in acid. He is getting another skin graft this week, so please send good thoughts his way. Thanks a lot.
If you're a fan of art dolls, this one by Bonnie Prokopowicz is featured in the Winter 2009 "Art Doll Quarterly" magazine. I'm not sure if the word "cute" is used to describe art dolls, but it is a cutie.
http://www.prokopowicz.org/dolls/crochet/happy/happy.htm

Not a pattern, just a thought / inspiration here.....
http://thesmallobject.com/stenopad/wordpress/?p=1046

For those of you who follow Noreen Crone-Findllay's blog, she is no longer at "Hankering for Yarn". She is now at www.tottietalkscrafts.com

Crafty Corral is having a contest on the website - the deadline is quick (November 14, 2008). You have to make certain items for charity. Check out the drawing at:
http://craftycorral.blogspot.com/

Now for the free patterns:
once again, Teresa has come thru - here's a beautiful potholder pattern using the "magic square" technique. She is amazing.
http://crochet-mania.blogspot.com/2008/10/crochet-magic-heart-potholder.html

another one from Teresa
http://crochet-mania.blogspot.com/2008/10/crochet-thread-angel.html


I've seen a few flakes of snow, so it's probably time to crochet this - an ice scraper mitten
http://doyourworsted.blogspot.com/2007/01/ice-scraper-mitten.html


This pattern is the reason my sons are happy the internet wasn't accessible to me when they were kids - otherwise, they'd be wearing hats like this:
http://www.piece-by-piece.net/Crochet/baby_hat.htm

I have a lot of those clear plastic cds left over from my beloved's projects. This is pretty cool way to use them - a Christmas wreath cd hotpad/trivet
http://www.crochetmemories.com/archive/december13.html


_Enjoy_

FM 10/27/08

I'm back. I'm still sad and confused, but the only way to deal with grief is to work thru it, so that's what I'm trying to do. I didn't post this last week but I still have the boot on my right leg for at least another month. The leg is not healing quickly because of "too much stress". SO hopefully by Thanksgiving it will be off or they will do "bone stimulation". That doesn't sound like fun. Thanks for all the emails and support...

Some of the links on my posts as well as the ones I have on the side may not work after October 31, 2008. AOL is closing down their blogs as of that date. As I find the new addresses, I will post them.

This site is just to look at - it combines 2 of my favorite things - crochet and buttons. Check it out: "Always a Bridesmaid" Kathleen Holmes' beautiful marriage of crochet and buttons
http://www.kathleenholmes.com/art/113/

On to the show:
Noreen Crone-Findlay's creation, Tottie Tomato has her own blog - and it features one of M's Crone-Findlay's pattern for a crocheted baby hat. Very cute.
http://tottietalkscrafts.wordpress.com/
In my part of the world, it's time to think of making afghans, maybe as a Christmas present. Look at this reversible afghan pattern:http://www.sarahanns.com/crochetworks/afgan.html

Priscilla Hewitt's crocheted mask. (This is an AOL site, so don't dawdle): http://members.aol.com/_ht_a/lffunt/mask.html
M's Hewitt's new site is http://www.priscillascrochet.net/

This is really cute - a crochet donut:
http://www.creativelegs.com/2008/10/we-are-back-with-sweet-crochet-donut.html

Lady Linoleum works her magic again - this time it's a bat applique in time for Halloween:
http://monstercrochet.blogspot.com/2008/10/free-pattern-vampire-bat-applique.html

There's a contest being sponsored by Caron Yarn and A. C. Moore. It's the "Naturally Baby Blanket" contest. Take a peek at it: http://www.naturallycaron.com/naturally_baby.html

Again, the "Art of Crochet" comes thru with Teresa's Lovely work - first, a crochet snowflake
http://crochet-mania.blogspot.com/2008/10/crochet-snowflake-1.html
than a filet crochet angel
http://stylish-crochet.blogspot.com/

Want to know the "behind the scenes" of Carol Ventura's "Sunburst Bowl" which is featured in the September/October 2008 issue of "Crochet Today" - here you go: http://www.tapestrycrochet.com/blog/?p=470

Have a large stash you want to reduce without giving it away (to me?) The "Stitch Diva" Jennifer Hansen's has a stash buster blanket on You Tube.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQlPEmNBt9k

As I have said a lot of times before, I receive no compensation for cataloging this sites. If somebody wants to give me some compensation, well, I'm all for it;) but I doubt that will be happening any time soon....

_enjoy_

fm 10/6/08

Here it is Monday again. I really truly mean to post days other than for Freebie Monday, but life gets in the way. Here's today's offerings:

Pattern Making has two lovely designs - one is a beautiful afghan
http://www.pattern-making.com/crochet/afghan-sea-shells/
and the second is for granny square slippers for the whole family:
http://www.pattern-making.com/crochet/granny-square-crochet-slippers/

Since it's October, pumpkins seem to be a primary decoration. Here's a filet pumpkin chart:
http://stylish-crochet.blogspot.com/2008/09/filet-crochet-pumpkin-chart-3.html

or maybe you'd prefer a few amigurumi pumpkin patterns:
http://planetmfiles.com/2008/10/04/free-crochet-pumpkin-pattern-or-two/


Or to get into the fall mood (and warm up a bit), here's a falling leaf afghan pattern:
http://www.coatsandclark.com/Crafts/Crochet/Projects/AfghansThrows/WR1039+Falling+Leaves+Afghan.htm

Red Heart has a website for the free patterns that come on the ball bands. So if you misplace that pattern (or maybe you never seen it), here's a place for you to check out:
http://www.redheart.com/patterns.html

Somebody out there has finished the Lion Brand crochet along and has a photo of her finished sampler - check it out, it's very pretty:
http://outtahere.wordpress.com/2008/10/01/its-finished/

Have you been looking for a Cthulhu pattern? Here's one for you and the wings look great.
http://cthulhucrochet.blogspot.com/2008/09/theyre-breeding-like-rabbits.html

Wormie has put her free patterns on one blog - Wormie's Pattern Place:
http://wormiespatternplace.blogspot.com/

This isn't a pattern but it may give you some ideas to do with plain t-shirts:
http://bonnindesigns.blogspot.com/2008/10/adding-zing-to-t-shirts-with-crochet.html

Here's another site that has free patterns - Sue's Crochet and Knitting patterns
http://crochetandknitting.com/patterns.htm

Noreen Crone-Findlay makes another appearance in this blog with her "Around the World" baby sweater and hat for Caron. Very cute:
http://www.caron.com/projects/ss/ss_around_world.html

As usual, I am not being financially supported by bribes or gifts by any of the sites I have mentioned. I keep waiting, but I think everybody's just too broke to do it;) - maybe when the economy takes an upturn;)

_enjoy_

FM 9/29/08

Here it is, Monday again (and so quickly). I am still walking sround with my lovely boot;) I did do something I thought was neat crochet wise this weekend - I used an old cd to make a coaster for my tea mug at work. It wasn't that hard to do, especially if you count your stitches correctly, which I seemed to have trouble doing last night;) Anyway, on with the show....

I thought this was pretty cool, a cheat sheet on how many chains & how many wraps you use for various stitches: http://crochet.about.com/od/filetcrochetcharts/ss/leaves011203.htm

For those of you who want to get an early start, here's Christmas Stocking pattern. It's for a crochet (and knit) Christmas stockings. (By the way, does anyone else notice how fast the special Christmas yarn disappears from the stores? It seems if you don't get it way before Halloween, you don't get it)
http://www.berroco.com/exclusives/magi/magi.html

For the filet lovers out there, here's a lovely filet leaves chart:
http://crochet.about.com/od/filetcrochetcharts/ss/leaves011203.htm


Amy O'Neil Houck has found the time, between moving from Maryland to Alaska, to create some crochet instructional videos - you got to check them out:
http://www.monkeysee.com/play/10393-crochet-chainless-foundations

I thought this is a very interesting textured wristband - prehaps would be good for a watchband.
http://crochet.about.com/od/wristbands/a/aa09202008.htm?nl=1

"Crocheting with Dee"'s Dee Stanziano has posted her pattern for preemie caps and info on the "Caps to the Capital" project.

Click here: Tulip Preemie Pattern

"Hankering for Yarn"'s Noreen Crone-Findlay has also posted a preemie cap pattern, along with info for the same project.
http://www.hankeringforyarn.com/crocheted-baby-earflap-style-cap-by-noreen-crone-findlay

Need something to hold the door open? How about a crochet door stop wizard?
http://www.pattern-making.com/crochet/crochet-door-stop-wizard/


This isn't a freebie, this is for a kit - but you can find inspiration in it - it's gorgeous. You could use your favorite flower motif in your favorite colors (or somebody else's favorite colors) to make a lovely gift.
http://www.loopknits.com/2008/09/22/kaleidoscope-crochet-scarf/


For Rosh HaShanah:
How to crochet a yarmulke
http://www.ehow.com/how_2319506_crochet-yarmulke.html
and another yarmulke
http://homes.aol.com/kpsbox/kippah.html
Happy New Year 5769!

_enjoy_

As usual, I get no kickback from anyone for listing these sites. I'd take a bribe, but that's not oging to happen;)

fm 9/1/08

I have been released (yay!) from the surgeon, but am still waiting to hear from the leg doc (boo). The incision still hurts, but it is finally healed. But on to the real star of the show today - freebie patterns and such.

I always love Noreen Crone-Findlay's work. Here is a lovely crocheted baby cardigan and hat on the Caron site. http://www.caron.com/projects/ss/ss_around_world.html

Baby girls grow to be toddlers and here's a cute toddler skirt pattern.
http://www.naturallycaron.com/projects/sedona/sedona_1.html

I'm not trying to rush the season, but the stores have had Halloween stuff out for a few weeks, so here's some crochet patterns: a crochet ghost, cat and jack'o'lantern
http://crochet-patterns-techniques.suite101.com/article.cfm/halloween_crochet_patternsfree_easy

Do you ever think about a designer's life - read this first:
http://www.corsavoo.com/crafts/0,2577,388828,00.html

I like the star stitch but I remember having a hard time understanding it from the book I was usinf to learn it. Now there's a star stitch tutorial to make it easier.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inUleg__vaU

Need to collect your plastic bags until you got enough to make a bag or just to reuse? Well, here's something useful for you - a plastic bag holder pattern.
http://kollegiatehooker.blogspot.com/

A few years ago, I made my older son a scarf. It wasn't long enough and instead of telling me, he told his aunt, my youngest sister. Of course she told me. I made it longer but not this long - here's a photo of the 115 foot crocheted scarf that was a group effort:
http://fancytiger.blogspot.com/2008/06/longest-crocheted-scarf-and-visit-from.html

I forgot about and I'd forgotten about how to do this stitch:
Crab Stitch Reverse Single Crochet Edging
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_DPQw2Dykg

Want to learn how to do mitered crochet? Here's a site for you.
http://www.innerchildcrochet.com/resources/how_to_design/mitered_square.html

Got plenty of scraps but can't face a granny square afghan? how about a crochet scrap hat pattern?
http://laughingpurplegoldfish.blogspot.com/2008/01/accidental-hat.html

As usual, I am not making any money off of posting these sites, I just thought I'd pass them along for you enjoyment. Hopefully you'll find something that will tickle your fancy:)

_enjoy_

freebie Monday 8/11/08

More on the health front. The surgical incision is healing slowly. My right leg is broken (broken tibia for those medical words folks) and I am wearing a boot for the next 4 weeks. No prolonged walking or standing :( But I can still sit and crochet :). I haven't quite decided what I should do for my crochet Olympics challenge, but I'll figure it out.....
On with the freebies.


Here's a site to make crochet lace vases to put your crochet flowers in - very lovely.
http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2008/08/pattern_for_crochet_lace_vases.html?CMP=OTC-5JF307375954

Lady Linoleum makes a return to this blog with this wonderful cherry ribbon tote.
http://monstercrochet.blogspot.com/2008/08/cherry-ribbon-tote.html

This is a pattern preview from "Crochet Blueprint".
http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2008/08/maggie_wrap_free_crochet_patte.html?CMP=OTC-5JF307375954

Want a pup but can't have one because of housing restrictions or maybe not enough cash? Planet June has a miniature schnauzer pattern for you.
http://www.planetjune.com/blog/how-to-crochet-a-miniature-schnauzer-pup/

Is you Ipod thingie naked? Or maybe it needs a costume to appear in public? Here's a ninja cozy for your mp3 player.
http://cthulhucrochet.blogspot.com/2008/08/ninja-cozy-tutorial.html

How about some filet crochet designs for Halloween?
http://stylish-crochet.blogspot.com/2008/08/filet-crochet-halloween.html

This isn't a pattern. Every mom thinks their child is special and of course, they are right. This mom blogged about her daughter's crochet work and it is exceptional, in my opinion. I couldn't even crochet at the age of 10 and I know I couldn't produce something that delicate.
http://lynnskitchenadventures.blogspot.com/2008/08/my-daughters-crochet.html

Here's a pattern for a crochet bolero.
http://www.e-pleteni.cz/aktuality.petra?id=2&lang=en

Here's Noreen Crone-Findlay's post about crocheting during the Olympics:
http://www.hankeringforyarn.com/crocheting-during-the-olympics

Ever get confused when crocheting in the round? It can be a bit strange at first. Here's some help: http://barney.gonzaga.edu/~aburton/crochrnd.html

And to practice what you have learned, here's a round ripple crochet tree skirt pattern.
http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showpost.php?p=1070831&postcount=2231

Yeah, it's warm in some parts of the world, but it won't stay that way. Here's a beautiful crocheted sweater pattern.
http://bejai1962.blogspot.com/2008/08/just-stitchin.html

Crochet Poet's pattern links (and these is an amazing amount of links for just about anything you could think of to crochet).
http://www.myhq.com/public/c/r/crochetpoet/

Kreinik crochet (and knitting) freebies
http://www.kreinik.com/kshop/home.php?cat=33

Bella Online online crochet magazine
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art9515.asp/zzz

As usual, I have not accepted any payola for listing these sites. And as usual, I would accept payola if offered but none was offered.

_enjoy_

shark week & fm July 28/08

It's shark week! Here's an English translation of a German pattern.
http://www.ullrykka.de/iblog/B567792918/C947144548/E20070508153639/Media/shark_english_version.pdf

And if you're waiting for the Olympics to begin, here's a way to join in - 2008 Crochet Games of Ancient Greece Challenge
I decided I'd join in and make Carol Ventura's tapresty kitty bag. *thanks Noreen for poiting this out to me) I've never done tapresty crochet before, so I thought why not give it a shot. It is also a free pattern, not sure if I posted the link before....
http://www.tapestrycrochet.com/KittyBag.htm


Remember peace signs? Sure you do - check out the pease sign battette (it looks like a barrette to me)
http://shala-beads.livejournal.com/218625.html#cutid1

Here's a lovely hairpin lace shawl by the Stitch Diva. Her work is always so beautiful. (Stitch Diva also has tutorials on how to do hairpin lace)
http://www.stitchdiva.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=FREE008

Michaels website has some crochet patterns on it, here's a V-neck vest:
http://www.michaels.com/art/online/projectsheet?pid=e06596

It's hot, you don't feel like making anything that's going to lay across your lap, try this pattern. You can customize it with a fancy button, it's a wreath pin.
http://craftside.typepad.com/craftside/2008/07/bullion-stitch.html

I've made a lot of toys in my life, but I have never seen this technique used before. Next time I make a toy, I'm trying this. It's a tutorial on how to make a toy with ears and legs all in one piece.
Click here: http://www.esunbeams.com/knittycat/patterns/knittycatsLoopyLegCrochetTechniquetutorial.pdf

"Woman's Day" also has some crochet patterns - these are a preview from Tamie Snow's "Tiny Yarn Animals"
Cuddly Crochet Creatures

Or maybe you're in the mood to make motifs to put together - here's a flower (daisy like) motif
http://crochet.about.com/library/weekly/aa051300.htm?nl=1

Want to make something cute for a child - here's a bear-ghan.....hmm, I wonder if I can make it big enough for an adult....
http://web.archive.org/web/20021009171701/http://home.earthlink.net/~bollandbunch/bearghan.html

Somewhere along the way, I missed the July edition of "Black Purl". Here's the link so you don't....
http://www.black-purl-magazine.com/

I ran into some sites that feature free patterns:
http://www.yarncat.com/crochet.html
http://www.crochetstuff.com/
http://www.grannys-garret.com/pattern/crochetpattern.html

Have you watched the "Tour de France" ? or maybe "The Triplets of Belleville" (a beautiful movie, by the way, great for kids and adults). Perhaps you'd like to know about the "Tour de Fleece"
http://www.tourdefleece.com/TdF_2008_home.ht


FYI, no kickbacks were given for mention on this blog :(

_enjoy_

fm (a day late)

Here is a fascinating site for those of you who like miniatures. This is a pattern for a miniature bouquet. Absolutely amazing to me....
http://www.artisansinminiature.com/catalog.html

Looking for something a little different in a hotpad? Check this pattern out for a beautiful hotpad pattern, sort of Celtic in looks (at least to me).
http://cityofcrochet.blogspot.com/2008/05/weaved-hotpad.html


Way back in the depths of time, there was a pattern featured that had Marilyn Monroe worked into it. Todd Paschall has the method of taking a photo and working it into an afghan at this site.
http://www.crochetbynumbers.com/

Just in case the airconditioning is a bit colder than you would like, here's a shawl pattern for you.
http://www.coatsandclark.com/Crafts/Crochet/Projects/Accessories/WM0303+Crochet+Lacy+Shawl.htm

I may have posted this one already, but I'm not sure.....
http://www.naturallycaron.com/projects/belize/belize_1.html

Noreen Crone-Findlay's pattern for an angel doll for peace. Her work is always great and this is cool.
http://www.hankeringforyarn.com/crocheted-angel-of-peace-doll

Doris Chan has a pattern for a wrap. I love M's Chan's patterns of "exploded doilies".
http://www.naturallycaron.com/projects/cocobay/cocobay_1.html

An article that talks about the benefits of crochet (and knitting).
curlsofsunshine.tipzu.com/people-who-knit-and-crochet-may-be-happier-and-healthier


As usual, no kickbacks for me. I even thought of setting up a separate mail box to accept them but nobody's even offering;)

_enjoy_

FM 5/26/08

Carol Ventura teaches you how to make polymer clay handles for your crochet hooks:
http://www.tapestrycrochet.com/blog/?p=398

Norren Crone-Findlay suggests a way to keep wasps out of your yard without using pesticides - a crocheted wasp nest. No, not for them to live in, but to trick them to think wasps already live in your yard. It seems that wasps are territorial. I plan to try this because I don't use pesticides in my yard.
http://www.hankeringforyarn.com/crocheted-wasp-nest

Covered hangers are good because they prevent clothes from falling on the floor of the closet - or in my case, on top of the yarn that's in the closet. Check this out:
http://craftygardenerca.blogspot.com/2007/06/crochet-covered-coathangers.html

Vashti Braha has this elegant jacket pattern available on the Caron site. It's beautiful.
http://www.naturallycaron.com/projects/barcelona/barcelona_1.html


Here's a sculptural crochet primer for you - really cool.
http://www.supernaturale.com/articles.html?id=277

Here's a Lion Brand yarn pattern on another site (with permission, of course, of Lion Brand).
http://sheilareinke.wordpress.com/2008/04/01/free-pattern-pure-appeal-baby-blanket-crochet/

Another sock pattern - toe up:
www.graftonfibers.com/socks.htm

This is a crochet pattern using sock yarn so you can actually wear the socks in your shoes:
socks_in_shoes.html

As usual, no kickbacks from anyone or any company mentioned here. _enjoy_

On a more serious note, in the U.S. today, it is Memorial Day, time to remember all who have given their lives during wartime for this country. Here's a more serious website to look at:
http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/flanders.htm

FM 5/19/08

New issues of the online "Crochet Cabana" newsletter is out:
http://www.crochetmemories.com/newsletters/newsletter.html

The May issue of Essentia is out. Check out that organized craft room!
http://www.black-purl-magazine.com/NEWS-051408.htm

I know it's a little late in my part of the world to be thinking of snowflakes - but I thought this was amazingly cool and perfect for a summer day.
http://www.crochetme.com/the-incredibly-versatile-giant-snowflake

Going to have folks over for a cookout? Maybe you can work in making an umbrella cover for your patio table inbetween making the potato salad?
http://www.knit1mag.com/patterns/2007/summer/k1su07_web1.pdf

Memorial Day in the US is the traditional start of beach / pool season. So maybe if you don't have time to make the umbrella cover, you can make a beach cover-up for yourself.
http://www.crochetme.com/June_July_2005/patt_waters_edge.htm

But if you're like me (running around like a crazy person, wondering why I always forget _something_ for a cookout), you might have enough time to make a headband.
http://www.berroco.com/exclusives/hedda/hedda.html

Noreen Crone-Findlay's blog shows her method of organizing hooks. I used a pencil case at one time, but now I have too many hooks for that. The idea of putting the large wooden ones in a cup or mug really appeals to me.
http://www.hankeringforyarn.com/organizing-crochet-hooks


Socks!? First I have stuff for the summer and now a design your own socks template pattern. Hey, it's not summer everywhere, you know. Plus folks do wear socks all year round. This is pretty cool because it allows you to adapt the sock to what you want.
http://crochet.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?zi=1/XJ&sdn=crochet&cdn=hobbies&tm=12&gps=401_788_869_563&f=20&su=p284.5.420.ip_p445.92.150.ip_&tt=2&bt=1&bts=0&zu=http%3A//www.crochetandknitting.com/sockstemplate.htm


Margaret Hubert does some of the most amazing patterns. It's good she comes out with crochet books frequently because that way my sons know what to get for me at gift giving time. Here's a free pattern for a butterfly from M's Hubert.

http://www.margarethubertoriginals.com/BUTTERFLY.html

And last but certainly not least, Roxycraft has a free amigurumi owl pattern. I thought it was quite cute. It could make a cute graduation gift package decoration.

http://roxycraft.wordpress.com/2008/05/13/woody-the-owl-free-amigurumi-pattern/

For those who have been following my trying to contact the "Crochet Fantasy" folks, I've gotten nowhere. I call and leave a message with the clerk (I presume she's a clerk) who answers the phone. Her reply is always the same "Some one will call you back". So far, no one has called me back. I'll keep trying, for what it's worth.

until next time, _enjoy_

A contest to win some cool earrings

Noreen Crone-Findlay makes some amazing creations. This time she is running a contest to win a pair of lovely lacy wire butterflies. You have to enter the contest by the 25th (yes, I should have posted it sooner - I'll blame work). I would really love to win this, but it's fair that I let other folks know about it.....here's the link:

http://www.hankeringforyarn.com/contest-crocheted-wire-butterfly-earrings

good luck and check out the other cool stuff on M's Crone-Findlay's blog....