So You Want to Crochet: How to Read a Pattern

This is one of the most basic things to learn.  If you don't know how to read a pattern, you will have a hard time learning how to crochet in the first place!  So lets start at the beginning.  When you first look at a pattern, it is going to tell you a few KEY things you will need to know:

Yarn Size

Here is a chart I really like that tells you all about the different sizes of yarn, what they are used for, and the suggested size of hook that you use.

Skill Level

Most patterns will tell you how difficult the pattern is.

Image from crochet-world.com

Crochet Hook Sizes:

Most patterns will tell you the size in metric AND U.S. Size Ranges.

Image from coatsandclark.com

The last and most important part about the pattern is the ability to read it!  If you are just beginning  you may want to print this post out and refer back to it as you start your first pattern!  The first time I looked at a pattern, I thought it was a foreign language!  It took me a while to really wrap my brain around around it.  Here is my BEST tip.  Take baby steps.  Just read a couple words at a time, crochet what it is asking you to, and then go to the next step.

Crocheting Abbreviations:

Click on any link for a brief explanation of each on LionBrand.com

approx = approximately beg = begin(s)(ning) bet = between BO = bind off bpdc = Back Post double crochet btwn = between care washing cleaning CC = contrasting color ch(s) = chain(s) ch-space = space previously made cn = cable needle CO = cast on cont = continu(e)(s)(ing) dbl = double dc = double crochet dec = decreas(e)(s)(ing) dpn(s) = double pointed needle(s) dtr = double treble (triple) crochet est = establish(ed) ext = extension foll = follow(s)(ing) fpdc = front post double crochet fpsc = front post single crochet fptr = front post triple crochet hdc = half double crochet inc = increas(e)(s)(ing) k = knit k1b = knit 1 in the row below k1b = knit through the back loop k2tog = knit 2 together k2togb = Knit 2 stitches together through back loop k3tog = knit 3 together k3togb = Knit 3 stitches together through back loop Kfb = knit in front and back of st lp st = loop stitch lp(s) = loop(s) M1 = make 1 M2 = make two MC = main color meas = measure(s) ndl(s) = needle(s) opp = opposite p = purl p1b = purl through the back loop p2sso = pass 2 slipped sts over p2tog = purl 2 together p2togb = purl 2 together in back p3tog = purl 3 together pat = pattern Pm = place marker psso = pass slipped stitch over PU = pick up rem = remain(s)(ing) rep = repeat(s)(ing) rev = revers(e)(ing) Rev St st = reverse stockinette stitch rf = right front RH = right hand rnd(s) = round(s) RS = right side rsc = reverse single crochet S2KP or S2KP2 = slip 2 stitches together, knit 1, pass two slip stitches over sc = single crochet sc2tog = single crochet 2 together sc3tog = single crochet 3 together sk = skip sk2p = Slip 1, k2tog, pass sl st over skp = slip 1, knit 1, pass slipped stitch over sl = slip sl st = slip stitch slip1-k1-psso = slip 1, knit 1, pass slip stitch over sm = slip marker sp(s) = space(s) sq(s) = square(s) ssk = slip, slip, knit St st = Stockinette stitch st(s) = stitch(es) t-ch = turning chain tbl = through the back loop tog = together tr = treble (triple) crochet work even WS = wrong side wyib = with yarn in back wyif = with yarn in front yo = yarn over yrh = yarn over (yarn round hook)

Here are a few others:
[] -- work instructions within brackets as many times as directed
() -- work instructions within parentheses as many times as directed
* -- repeat the instructions following the single asterisk as directed
** -- repeat instructions between asterisks as many times as directed or repeat from a given set of instructions.
" -- inches
alt -- alternate

Last but not least:

Gauge:

This is one of the most misunderstood crocheting tools.  Mainly, because people, like me, get impatient and don't check it and most of the time the hat or whatever comes out the wrong size.  Everyone crochets differently, we hold our hooks different, our stitches are different sizes, etc.  The gauge is what we check so that we are working the same size as the author of the pattern.  For example:  Say the pattern tells you that the gauge is 12 dc = 4".  Well, this means that if you did 12 double crochets and measured them, then it should be 4 inches long.  If it is shorter, you may need to use a larger hook.  If it is bigger, than use a smaller hook, and work it out again to get closest to 4 inches as you can.

Here is was Lion Brands says about gauge:

Gauge is the term that is used to define the proper tension you should work to insure that the crocheted piece you make will be the right size when it's completed. The hook size listed in the pattern is just the size used by the designer to work at the proper gauge. You may need to change hook size in order to work at the given gauge. It is especially important to work to the proper gauge when making garments -- anything that you want to fit properly!

Gauge is usually defined in the pattern by a ratio of stitches and rows to a given measurement such as 16 stitches and 14 rows in single crochet = 4". You should always work a swatch of fabric (approximately 4" x 4") in the stitch pattern of the piece you are making. Then count the number of stitches and rows in the measurement designated by the gauge given in the pattern. If you find that your swatch has more stitches and rows than the gauge, you are working too tightly so change to a larger hook and try again. If you have fewer stitches and rows in the area, you are working too loosely and should try a smaller hook. Keep changing hook size until you arrive at the proper gauge.

Now, don't look at all this and get discouraged.  ALL of this isn't going to be in a single pattern!  This is only a guide to help you read one.  Let's look at an example.

Let's say we are going to make this Santa Hat from FaveCrafts.com:

Let's take a peek at the first part of the pattern:

Hat circumference at bottom edge: 20 (22)". (This is telling you the size)
Directions are for size Small/Medium; changes for size Large are in parentheses. 

Materials:
RED HEART® “Holiday”: 1 Ball each 140 White/Silver A and 9090 Red/Red B. (This is the exact colors that they used, doesn't mean you have to.  This is also in it's way telling you the size.  Red Heart yarn is Worsted, Med, #4: so any other brands that size would do just as well)
Crochet Hook: 5mm [US H-8]. (We go by the H in the US)
Yarn needle. (A must have for weaving in loose ends)
Pompom maker. (I just use a tongue depressor or my hands)

GAUGE: 12 dc = 4”; 8 rounds = 4”. CHECK YOUR GAUGE. Use any size hook to obtain the gauge. (This is the same as the example above)

You can read the rest of the pattern here!

Then you begin!

-Cat

Stay tuned this week with more beginning lessons in crocheting.

Coming soon:
How to chain and slip stitch, and do some other things.
How to Single Crochet
How to Double Crochet
And much, MUCH more!

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Winner of the cute Newborn Cable Hat!!

And the winner of this super cute cable hat is (thanks to random.org for determining the winner):

Bobbi Hinton!!! 

Congrats on winning this great hat!!

Please send me your contact info at kebbuk@yahoo(dot)com and I'll get this sent off to you asap. Thanks everyone for entering and giving us such great feedback! Stay tuned for more great posts and I know we'll be doing more giveaways in the future.

If you missed out on this and really wanted one you can order one through my Etsy page.

~Heidi

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So You Want to Learn to Crochet: Starting Out

This last week, during our ultimate giveaway events, we posed the question:  What would you like to see more of on this blog.  The answers were numerous but had several common themes.  One thing, you as readers would like to see more of are posts for beginning crochet.  I was really excited to see the enthusiasm for crocheting and the expressions for the desire to learn one of my most favorite things!

Today, I wanted to talk about what you need to get the best start on your crocheting journey.  There are easier ways if you know some of the tricks of the trade.  I didn't have anyone to teach me, I am a self-taught crocheter, so I learned by trial and error and more trial and error.  So to save you some of the pains I went through, let me give you my best tips for starting out!  Beginning with yarn selection.

Yarn

When it comes to starting out, believe it or not, there are "good" yarns and "bad" yarns to use to begin your journey.  I taught a some crochet classes this last year, and no matter how many warnings, how many emails or texts I sent out, half of my students STILL showed up to class the first day with yarn I told them NOT to buy.

All yarns are NOT created equal.

Now, mind you, my favorite yarns are not necessarily the yarns that are best to start out with.  But some of my favorite stuff is little harder to work with and not beginner friendly.

The best yarn to start out with, is the Red Heart brand.

Now, before you start whining and complaining that it's the cheap stuff, and it isn't as soft and yadda yadda, let me remind you that you are LEARNING.  There is nothing better to learn all your new skills than cheap, user friendly yarn.  Trust me.  Make sure this is something you really want to learn, something you are willing to invest in later -- and to get the best idea of how well you are able to do this, you need yarn that is easy to work with.  This is the stuff.

Once you have made a couple things to practice your skills, you can move onto some other brands that are little more pricey, but softer.  I really like Vanna's Choice (you can find this one just about anywhere):

Micheal's carries a brand I like called Loops & Threads: Impeccable, that is pretty good:

I LOVE a brand that Jo-Ann's carries called Deborah Norville: Everyday:

Hobby Lobby has one called I Love This Yarn, that is pretty easy to work with as well:

Other Types I love, but don't buy until you are fulling investing in crocheting, because they can be pretty pricey.

Cotton:  I love working with cotton, but it can be a bit tricky and isn't the greatest for ALL types of crocheting.  My favorite brand is carried at Hobby Lobby called "I Love this Cotton"

Wool:  Wool is fun, but super pricey right now.  I only use it on my sock monkey hats.  I would skip this for a while until you are more practiced.

DO NOT USE:

Simply Soft:  Even as an advanced crocheter, I hate this stuff.  I tell ALL my students not to show up to class with this brand EVER, and guess what?  Half of them ALWAYS DO!  I even put threats in my supply lists I send out, that I will drop kick them out the door if they show up with it.  I guess they don't take me seriously.  As a beginner, this is NOT the yarn for you.  I don't care how soft it feels compared to the Red Heart.  Don't fall for it.  Once you learn how to crochet and can actually ALTER a pattern, that's right, you read that right, ALTER a pattern.  Don't even LOOK at Simply Soft.  Here's why:

It claims to be Worsted Med yarn.  This is a total lie.  You will never meet gauge using this yarn as the pattern tells you.  It is thin, slick, and unless you are using a little hook, the stitches are loose, and the product stretches out SUPER easy.  Not worth it.  Don't buy it until you are advanced -- then help yourself.

Crazy Types of Yarn:  Now, I know that the sparkly yarn looks cool, or that ultra super fuzzy stuff... but these are yarns for more advanced crocheters, not beginners.

Now onto the other important item:

Hooks!!

I love my hooks.  It's sad really, but I do.  I actually wrote a post about my favorite types:  You can read it here!

I am a total fan of the Susan Bates hooks (above).  I WILL NOT use anything else.  I started out on the Boye hooks and really struggled until I discovered my Susan's.  I tell all my students this as well, and you do think they listen?  Heaven's no!  They all show up Boye's start cursing and whining when they can't hold them right, the stitches aren't flowing, and they keep catching unwanted yarn onto the hook, etc, etc.  At this point, I break out my Susan's and let them try them out.  They fall in love.  And sometimes they even try to sneak off with one!  They aren't really much more expensive, so that's not much of an excuse, and you don't ever have to pay full price if you print out a coupon or something.  Hobby Lobby has a whole set of Susan's for around $10, and if you get on their email list you will have a 40% off coupon to take in with you... see where I am going with this? (Note: I have never seen Susan Bates hooks at Wal-Mart, just a heads up!)

For just starting out, I would suggest you have two hooks for sure: H and I.  G and J can also be useful, but the H and I are the most commonly used ones for the stuff I do anyway.

Yarn Needles:

Get a package!  They are super cheap and you NEED at least one.  I really like the sharp ones, but lots of people like the dull ones... I don't.  Sharper the better for me!

Time to Learn!!

Now, you have your yarn and your hooks and it's time to get going!!  In summary, here are my best tips plus some for the newbie:

1. Start out with cheap yarn! (Red Heart or something similar)

2. Don't skimp on hooks because it's what's there.  If you don't learn with something you like, you may get discouraged and quit.  Buy one of each brands if you want and give them a go, they really aren't so pricey that you couldn't do it.

3. Invest in yourself.  Don't get discouraged.  There are 3 types of students in my classes: the crochet challenged, the average joes, and the natural talents.  Some may pick it up faster than others, that's natural with anything, BUT I promise you, that by the end of my classes (3 month/ once a week semesters), ALL my students that stuck to it are producing hats and their stitches are nice and even.  One of my most "challenged" students last summer ended coming up with better stuff than the crochet gifted one!  Mainly because she practiced more and really went for it!

4. Practice, practice, PRACTICE!!  You aren't going to get any good if you don't make the effort.  Anything great in life is worked for.  So work for it.  When I first started out, I literally filled a whole garbage bag full of practice projects.  Not good enough to give away, but they taught me how do the stuff I do today.

So pop on over and get your yarn and hooks, then get back here later or tomorrow (depending on when I have another minute) to read my next post on How to Read a Pattern!

Happy Shopping!

-Cat Pin It

Winner of the Woman's Hat!!!

And the winner of this cute woman's hat is (thanks to random.org for determining the winner):

Wendy!!! 

Congrats on winning this great hat!!

I'll get this sent off to you asap. Thanks everyone for entering and giving us such great feedback!

~Heidi

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Candy Corn Hat Pattern for Toddlers/Children

Since my Candy Corn Hat design was such a hit.  I decided to release my children's size pattern on here to share.  So here it is!!

Candy Corn Hat Pattern 

(Toddler/ Child size)

Shown above is the toddler size, which you can get by using a hook smaller than the ones used in the pattern below.

Materials:

Hooks I & H (or for the toddler hat use hooks H & G)
Yarn: white, orange, yellow (I used Red Heart)

Note:  The chain 2's at the beginnings of the rows DO NOT count as 1 dc.  instead you will dc 1 or 2 times in the same st to start each row.

With I hook (or H hook for toddler size) and white yarn, Ch 4 (or magic circle) join with 1st ch to form a loop.  Ch 2.

Rnd 1: work 12 dc into loop.  (remember not counting as a dc) join. (12 dc)

Rnd 2: ch 2, dc in each st. join. (12)

Rnd 3: ch 2, 2 dc in each st. join (24)

Rnd 4-5: ch 2, dc in each st, join (24)

Rnd 6: ch 2, *2 dc in next st, dc in st, rep from *. join (36)

Change to orange.

Rnd 7: ch 2, 2 dc in next st, dc in next 2 st, rep from *, join (48)

Rnd 8: ch 2, *2 dc in next st, dc in next 3 st, rep from *, join (60)

Rnd 9-13: ch 2, dc in each st around. join. (60)

Change to yellow yarn and H hook (or G hook for Toddler size)

Rnd 14: ch 1, sc in each dc space around. join. (60)

Rnd 15-18: ch 1, sc in each st around. (60)

Fasten off.

Ear Flaps

Right Flap

Holding hat like this:

Count 8 stitches left from where you tied it off.  In the 9th st, join yellow yarn (H hook for Kids, G hook for toddlers) with a ss.

Row 1: in same st as ss, sc 1. sc 11 more across. (12 sc total) Ch 1 turn.

Row 2-4: sc across (12 sc) ch 1, turn.

Row 5: sc 2 tog, sc in next 8 st, sc 2 tog (10) ch 1, turn.

Row 6: sc 2 tog, sc in next 6 st, sc 2 tog (8) ch 1, turn.

Row 7:  sc 2 tog, sc in next 4 st, sc 2 tog (6) ch 1, turn.

Row 8:  sc 2 tog, sc in next 2 st, sc 2 tog (4) ch 1, turn.

Row 9: sc 2 tog, sc 2 tog (2) ch 1, turn.

Row 10: sc 2 tog (1) tie off.

Left Ear Flap

Holding hat the same way as above, count 19 stitches to the right from the tie off of the hat. In 20th st, join yarn with a ss.

Follow same ear flap directions as above, but DO NOT TIE OFF!!!

To finish of the hat, sc down the ear flap and around the hat, doing 3 sc in the tips of the ear flaps.  Fasten off.

Add tassel ties and braid.

And there you go!!  My fun little Candy Corn Hat for Fall fun!

-Cat



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Winner of the E-Reader Cover!!!

This is my most favorite item that I made this week.  I was surprised that I didn't have more people enter the giveaway... oh, well, maybe they are just holding out for the free pattern that is coming soon!

Anyway, the winner of the E-Reader Cover is:

Emily!!!

Congrats and thanks a million for your support!  Please email me (nutsinanutshell(at)gmail(dot)com) with your mailing info so I can get this to you asap!

-Cat Pin It

Long Elf Hats!

I have been working on elf hats lately.  I have done... well... 2 so far :) They look absolutely adorable on my kids! Haha.  Thought I would post them and see what you think.  I got the original pattern from Oodles 4 Noodles. Then I had to adjust it for toddler size because I don't have an infant to try it on, so I had to settle for my little toddler :) But you get the idea :) Oddly enough... he will wear it all day long! Here are the pictures.. the colors are a bit washed out because my camera isn't very good.

 

I like how the bottom part of the hat is thicker, makes for warmer ears!If you aren't a crocheter and would like to purchase one of these hats, please contact me, Amy, at nitymesky(at)yahoo(dot)com for prices and to make a customized order just for you!!-Amy

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Winner of the Candy Corn Hat!!

The winner of the Candy Corn Hat is:

Brandee!!!!

Congrats!!!

Please email me the size you want and your shipping info so I can get this to you asap!  Thanks for you support!

-Cat

PS for those of you who MUST have this hat anyway, you can buy it at my shop here! Pin It

Special Surprise Giveaway!!

I actually had planned on doing a different infant hat but due to it's popularity I decided to offer up my cute little creation...the Newborn Cable Hat. You can check out my post about it here and my Etsy shop here. It's my very first personal design I've ever made and so I'm very proud of it.

This beautiful cutie's picture was taken by my talented cousin Kassidy, she does photography professionally.  She does my kids' pictures and wow, they are the best pictures I have ever had! 

You can check out her blog here

Just a couple other views (these were taken by moi so they aren't as professionally done):

Here is how to enter:


Mandatory:

Leave a comment on here telling us what you would like to see more of on this blog. Examples: giveaways, tutorials, free patterns, pattern reviews, etc.  (I am purposely keeping this the same for all the giveaways this week to give us some great ideas of what you, our readers and followers would like to see more of here)

Other Entries (Optional): (Leave a separate comment for each entry that you do please! Each comment = 1 entry)

• Become a follower of this blog. (If you already are one, still leave us comment and let us know!)
• Like us on Facebook (Again, if you already do, still leave us a comment and let us know!)
• Follow us on Twitter (Same as above if you already do)
• Blog about this giveaway.
• Share this giveaway on Facebook.
• Tweet about this giveaway.
• "Pin" this giveaway.
• If you can come up with another creative way to share our blog or this giveaway, you can have another entry!

• Check out my new Esty Page and come back and leave us a comment on your favorite hat I have there! Let me know what you like and other hats you'd like to see. 

Contest ends Monday the 29th at 11:59 pm, I'm letting this giveaway go a little bit longer so everyone who hasn't had a chance to enter this week will be able to do so. Winner will be announced on Tuesday. Have fun and good luck!

-Heidi

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Winner of the Men's Hat!!!

The winner of the Men's Beanie (thanks to Random.org) is:

Noelle Christensen

Congrats!!!!!

Please send me your shipping info so I can get this sent out to you!

-Cat

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Woman's Hat Giveaway!

It's time to announce the next giveaway and it's my turn, yippee!! I love giveaways!

I am giving away this beautiful turquoise woman's hat. It's so much fun! It reminds me of January and snowflakes. : )

To win this awesome hat:

Mandatory:

Leave a comment on here telling us what you would like to see more of on this blog. Examples: giveaways, tutorials, free patterns, pattern reviews, etc.  (I am purposely keeping this the same for all my giveaways this week to give us some great ideas of what you, our readers and followers would like to see more of here)

Other Entries (Optional): (Leave a separate comment for each entry that you do please! Each comment = 1 entry)

• Become a follower of this blog. (If you already are one, still leave us comment and let us know!)
• Like us on Facebook (Again, if you already do, still leave us a comment and let us know!)
• Follow us on Twitter (Same as above if you already do)
• Blog about this giveaway.
• Share this giveaway on Facebook.
• Tweet about this giveaway.
• "Pin" this giveaway.
• If you can come up with another creative way to share our blog or this giveaway, you can have another entry!
• Check out my new Esty Page and come back and leave us a comment on your favorite hat I have there! Let me know what you like and other hats you'd like to see. 

Contest ends Saturday the 27th at 11:59 pm. Winner will be announced on Monday. Have fun and good luck!

-Heidi

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E-Reader Cover/ Cozy Giveaway!

I wanted to do something a little different for the giveaway today.  After spending most of the day looking through some of my patterns, ideas that I have been wanting to try, and even starting a few projects with full intention of giving that one away... I finally decided on the the E-Reader Cover.

Now, I have seen a few of these on line.  Most of them cost the big bucks on Etsy, and you can buy a pattern or two... but the free stuff available was a little lame.  So I came up with my own design.

Cat's E-Reader Cover/ Cozy

I have been wanting something to slip my Kindle Fire in before it goes into my purse to keep it from scratching and playing games without me.  I do have a little plastic one that I like, but I REALLY wanted something the screamed ME!!  I wanted bright colors that caught the eye, and a cool pocket in the front to hold my head phones, or my cell phone (see picture on bottom).

The Kindle Fire slips snuggly into the case nicely... and so does my husband's Kindle Keyboard.  I would think the other e-readers would fit as well.

 This item is also 100% Cotton.

And the best part:  To all you crocheters, I am going to write this pattern down, along with some variations and post it on here for free.  It might not be for a couple weeks, but this is something I would LOVE to share with my fellow crocheters.  (They would make GREAT gifts for Christmas!)

To win this awesome E-Reader Cover:

Mandatory:

Leave a comment on here telling us what you would like to see more of on this blog. Examples: giveaways, tutorials, free patterns, pattern reviews, etc.  (I am purposely keeping this the same for all my giveaways this week to give us some great ideas of what you, our readers and followers would like to see more of here)

Other Entries (Optional): (Leave a separate comment for each entry that you do please! Each comment = 1 entry)

• Become a follower of this blog. (If you already are one, still leave us comment and let us know!)
• Like us on Facebook (Again, if you already do, still leave us a comment and let us know!)
• Follow us on Twitter (Same as above if you already do)
• Blog about this giveaway.
• Share this giveaway on Facebook.
• Tweet about this giveaway.
• "Pin" this giveaway.
• If you can come up with another creative way to share our blog or this giveaway, you can have another entry!

Contest ends Friday the 26th at 11:59 pm. Winner will be announced on Saturday. Have fun and good luck!

-Cat

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Candy Corn Hat Giveaway!

Last Halloween, this was my best selling item.  There wasn't a lot of choices on Etsy, then, this year the Candy Corn Hat has exploded and there are many more options for people to buy.  I am okay with it, mainly because my shop has been closed the last few weeks due to having my tonsils out and I was in recovery mode... not exactly in the mood to be taking hat orders.

My original plan was to give away one of these cuties that I already had made up, but then as I thought about it today, I realized I didn't want to limit my readers that way.  So whoever wins this hat, you will get to choose between the sizes newborn through child (That includes all baby and toddler sizes as well).  This is NOT an adult hat.  But I will customize it to the size you need for your little one.

PS -- the great thing about the Candy Corn Hat, is that isn't just a Halloween thing... it's a FALL thing too :)

Candy Corn Hat

To win this cute as a button candy corn hat:

Mandatory:

Leave a comment on here telling us what you would like to see more of on this blog. Examples: giveaways, tutorials, free patterns, pattern reviews, etc.

Other Entries (Optional): (Leave a separate comment for each entry that you do please! Each comment = 1 entry)

• Become a follower of this blog. (If you already are one, still leave us comment and let us know!)
• Like us on Facebook (Again, if you already do, still leave us a comment and let us know!)
• Follow us on Twitter (Same as above if you already do)
• Blog about this giveaway.
• Share this giveaway on Facebook.
• Tweet about this giveaway.
• "Pin" this giveaway.
• If you can come up with another creative way to share our blog or this giveaway, you can have another entry!

Contest ends Thursday the 25th at 11:59 pm. Winner will be announced on Friday. Have fun and good luck!


-Cat

PS -- There is still time to enter the contest for the Men's Hat!  Click here for details!

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Men's Beanie Giveaway!

To celebrate the fact we have over a hundred likes on Facebook, AND to kick off the hat season, we will be doing some random giveaways all week!  Yay!

The first hat, is one of my (Cat's) new designs.  I have been wanting to put something together for men that looks manly, but fun.  I came up with this "raised stitch" design.  My husband totally feel in love with it and was heart broken when he found out that I hadn't made it for him!  So now I guess I am committed to making him one.

It's warm, covers the ears, and looks stylish... at least I think so!  (Then again, I am totally partial to the model here).

UPDATE (11/27/12):  If you like this hat, the free pattern will the FREE pattern is NOW posted!  Check it out here!

To win this fabulous men's hat:

Mandatory:

• Leave a comment on here telling us what you would like to see more of on this blog.  Examples: giveaways, tutorials, free patterns, pattern reviews, etc.

Other Entries (Optional): (Leave a separate comment for each entry that you do please!  Each comment = 1 entry)

• Become a follower of this blog. (If you already are one, still leave us comment and let us know!)
• Like us on Facebook (Again, if you already do, still leave us a comment and let us know!)
• Follow us on Twitter (Same as above if you already do)
• Blog about this giveaway.
• Share this giveaway on Facebook.
• Tweet about this giveaway.
• "Pin" this giveaway.
• Check out Heidi's new Etsy Page and come back and leave us a comment on your favorite hat she has there!

Contest ends Wednesday the 24th at 11:59 pm.  Winner will be announced on Thursday.  Have fun and good luck!

-Cat

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10 Fabulous FREE Halloween Crochet Patterns!

I have been searching the Internet this week for inspiration and some fun projects I can do in bed while recovering from this tonsillectomy.  I just had to share what I found!

Trick or Treat Bag

 from Wonky Wonderful

How super cute is that?!  For the pattern and information check out their site here!

Candy Corn Bunting (Pendants)

from The Cozy Corner

Who doesn't love Candy Corn??  Check out this pattern here!

Happy Bat Bag

By Red Heart

I am a sucker for cute crochet bags... and Halloween stuff... put both together and I am totally in bliss!  Click here for the free pattern!

Trick or Treat Wreath

By Sugar'n Cream

This wreath is just too fun to not try!  Click here for pattern!  And here is another cute wreath:

Candy Corn Wreath

By Donna's Crochet Designs

The pattern is found here!

Witch or Wizard Hats

By Red Heart

I think these look a lot of fun!  Pattern found here.

Cute Crochet Pumpkins

By Sugar'n Cream

Pattern found here! (I think you have to have a membership to the site for this pattern.  It's free though, and easy to sign up)

Halloween Pendant

By Lion Brand Yarn

I think this would look great in my kitchen!  Pattern found here.

Black Cat Door Stopper

By Lion Brand Yarn

I think I would put a festive orange ribbon around his neck... pattern here!

Spider Webby Bag

By Purple Kitty Yarns

I think this has got to be one of my favorites!  I think it's fantastic!  You can check out the pattern here!

There, I hope this has given you some great ideas for the season and motivated you to dust off those hooks! I know it has for me.  If you do decided to make any of these patterns, we would LOVE for you to send us pictures of your finished product.

-Cat Pin It

FREE Halloween Monster Hat Pattern for Toddlers

I have been a busy bee these last couple days!

For some reason, every part of me doesn't want to crochet when it's warm outside.  I almost get to the point where I swear that I will never be in the mood again... then the weather cools down, my yarn starts calling my name and my fingers start itching to hold the crochet hooks again!

I have had this overwhelming desire to give back to my fellow crochet community this fall with some free patterns.  Last night, I posted the free Newborn Pumpkin Hat.  Today, I whipped together a fun little monster hat for my toddler.  It turned out so dang cute, I thought I would post the pattern and share it as well.

Here is a basic, Monster Eye Ball skull cap.  But the options are unlimited to personalize!  Put some ears on, tufts on the top... I mean, come on, it's a monster... it can be ANYTHING!

Halloween Monster Eye Ball Hat Pattern

For 18-24 month Toddler

Yarn:  Worsted Med.
Black, lime green, blue, yellow, and white.  (Or any colors you want!)

Hooks: I and H

With Black yarn Ch 3. ss with 1st ch to form loop.

Rnd 1: ch 1. work 7 hdc in loop. (7) ss to join.

Rnd 2: ch 1. work 2 hdc in each st around (14) ss to join.

Rnd 3: ch 1. work *2 hdc in nect st, hdc in next. * repeat. ss to join. (21)

Rnd 4: ch 1. work *2 hdc in nect st, hdc in next 2 st. * repeat. ss to join. (28)

Rnd 5: ch 1. work *2 hdc in nect st, hdc in next 3 st. * repeat. ss to join. (35)

Rnd 6: ch 1. work *2 hdc in nect st, hdc in next 4 st. * repeat. ss to join. (42)

Rnd 7: ch 1. work *2 hdc in nect st, hdc in next 5 st. * repeat. ss to join. (49)

Rnd 8-9: ch 1. hdc around (49)

Rnd 10: change to green yarn.  Ch 1. hdc around (49)

Rnd 11-15: ch 1. hdc around (49)

Rnd 16-19: Change to blue yarn. ch 1. hdc around (49)

Rnd 20-21: Use H hook, sc around (49).  Fasten off.

Eye Ball

With black yarn, ch 3. ss with 1st ch 1 to loop.  (Note: to make it tighter in the center, do a Magic circle instead).

Rnd 1: ch 2. work 12 dc into loop.  ss to join (12)

Rnd 2: With yellow yarn, ch 2. work 2 dc in each st around (24)

Rnd 3: with white yarn, ch 2. work *2 dc in next st, work dc in next 2 st. Repeat * around. (36)

Rnd 4: ch 2. *work 2 dc in next st, work dc in next 4 st. repeat * Fasten off with long tail to stitch onto hat.

Attach eyeball to hat!

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Newborn Pumpkin Hat Pattern: FREE

Since it has been a while since I have updated this blog, I figured I owed it to my followers and readers to post a little freebie.

Fall time is a great time to welcome new babies into the world.  I, myself, had a fall baby the first time... and I would have LOVED to have a pumpkin hat for him!!  Halloween babies are so blasted fun!!

This year, I have been feeling like I want to give back to some of the babies out there.  So I put together this newborn pumpkin hat pattern for a great idea for a baby gift.  After all, who doesn't want a crochet baby hat these days?

So here it is, enjoy!

FREE Newborn Pumpkin Hat Crochet Pattern

Yarn:
Worsted (Med)
Brown, Orange, Green

Hook: sizes G & H

Special Stitch:  

Puff stitch --  Yarn over (YO), insert hook into next stitch, yo and draw yarn through st, yo again and draw yarn through 2 loops.  In the same stitch, repeat the same steps as above until you have 6 loops on the hook. YO and pull yarn through ALL 6 loops.  Chain 1.

Hat Body:

With brown yarn and H hook, ch 3.  Join to 1st ch to form loop.

Rnd 1: work 7 hdc in loop.  Join with ss to 1st.

Rnd 2: Ch 1. work 7 hdc around. (7 hdc) ss to join.

Rnd 3-5:  Repeat rnd 2.

Rnd 6: Ch 1. 2 hdc in each st around. (14 hdc) join with ss.

Rnd 7: ch 1. *2 hdc in next. hdc in next st. repeat * around. (21) join with ss.

Rnd 8: Ch 1. *2 hdc in next st. hdc in next 2 st. repeat * around. (28) join with ss.

Rnd 9: Join to orange yarn.  Ch. 1. *2 hdc in next. hdc in next 3 st. repeat * around. (35)

Rnd 10: ch 1. *2 hdc in next st. hdc in next 5 st. repeat *. (41)

Rnd 11: ch 1. hdc around (41)

12-17: Ch 2. Dc in next 2 st. Puff Stitch (see special stitch instructions on top) in next st. *dc in next 4 st. Puff stitch in next. repeat * around.  There will be an extra dc at the end of the row. (there will be 8 puff stitches total around).

Change to G hook.

Rnd 18-21: ch 1. sc around. (41) Fasten off after row 21.

Curly Cue:

With H Hook and Green yarn, chain 13.

In 2nd chain from hook, hdc 2 times in chain.  Work 2 hdc in each stitch forming the curl.  (24) Fasten off leaving a tail to thread and attach to the top of the hat.

Hope you have a blast making this cute hat!  If you do make one, send us some pictures and we can post them!!  Or share your stories with us... we LOVE feedback!

Have a Happy Halloween and a fantastic Fall!

-Cat

PS -- Oh, and if you decide to sell these hats, please give us the credit for the design :)  Thanks!

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And the winner is....

The winner of the Fall Giveaway is....

Wendy!!

Congratulations on winning the super cute Monster Hat!!

If any of you really wanted it but didn't win, you can come check it out at my Etsy shop here.

Keep checking back for new updates, Freebie Friday will be back this week, and we might just do another giveaway soon!

What kind of projects are you working on these days?

~Heidi

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Last Day to enter the Giveaway!

Happy October 13th everyone!!  I hope you are all having a great fall and enjoying this great season! Are you ready for Halloween yet? It's just 2 1/2 weeks away, that's so crazy!

Today is the last day to enter for the giveaway! Make sure you enter before it's too late! :) You can go here for the entry rules.

Best of luck everyone!

~Heidi Pin It

Fall is here again!

I can't believe it is already Fall! Time just slips away. It has almost been a year since we started this blog. Wow, can you believe it! So much has happened in the last year, there's just too much to even try to fit into a single blog post.

So anyway, welcome back to Fall! That time of year when the leaves are changing, Halloween decorations are being put up, and those winter clothes are being pulled out of the back of closets. Thanksgiving is just around the corner and then Christmas! I love this time of year, mostly because it means an end to super hot days, I live in a desert so 105 is very common during summer. It's so nice not to be living in a cave anymore. : ) So what's your favorite part of fall? What's your favorite Halloween decoration/costume/candy? 

Well here on The Worsted Crochet Blog we want to celebrate the coming of Halloween. We are doing, drum roll please...another giveaway!! Now this is so much fun! I love giveaways! And here is the Prize:

This is an original Monster hat. My husband drew the design and I created it as a hat. It was a fun joint effort. : ) 

Sure do love my cute model! Anyway, this is a Toddler size and it can be yours!

How to enter:

Mandatory:  Become a public follower of this blog (I usually don't do this, but since we haven't met our follower goal yet...) AND then leave a comment on this post when you have done so. Current followers can just comment on this post to enter.

Other optional entries (leave a separate comment for each):

• Like this blog on Facebook.
• Follow this blog on Twitter.
• Share this giveaway on Facebook, Twitter, and/or your blog and then leave a comment for each share. The more you share the more entries you have to win!

The contest ends Saturday, 13th of October (dun, dun, dun) at 11:59 pm.  Winners will be announced on Monday.  Good luck everyone!!

~Heidi

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