tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-253998732024-03-07T12:20:01.963-08:00KnittingGuruA trip into the mind of a knitwear designer.
Knitting and crochet provide pleasure, relaxation, meditation and make the world more beautiful with fiber.KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.comBlogger86125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-6287394732116706292015-03-13T11:38:00.000-07:002015-03-13T12:01:44.022-07:00Happy St. Patrick's Day!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">In one more week it will be St. Patrick's Day. I have a soft spot for that holiday because my father was born and lived the first 12 years of his life in Dublin, Ireland. He came from a large family of 8 brothers and sisters and they all were born in different countries as they worked their way to the America, but he grew up in Dublin. He's no longer living, but this post is fondly dedicated to him and the slight Irish lilt in his speech that he never lost.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Could this be why one of my favorite colors is green? You'll always find green things in my online shops. Here I've featured some things from my Etsy shop.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">First, a selection of green scarves, shawls and sweaters.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFiyXvSlca-7Ng-qfeBSLqhFbEVBxHKS7pNuh6HheG4knVovDjhpejPTClAuBNN0Dq3sUO1WWYsD4XcaGwjHarg83lzAvRrKw4NEUeI-vo92-21jsUOv1RvTF57LYcNDUNqLm4/s1600/StPatricksDayScarvesCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFiyXvSlca-7Ng-qfeBSLqhFbEVBxHKS7pNuh6HheG4knVovDjhpejPTClAuBNN0Dq3sUO1WWYsD4XcaGwjHarg83lzAvRrKw4NEUeI-vo92-21jsUOv1RvTF57LYcNDUNqLm4/s1600/StPatricksDayScarvesCollage.png" height="640" width="236" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Starting with the sweater on the upper right and going clockwise these are: <span style="color: black;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/21576739/knit-crochet-shrug-bolero-sweater?ref=shop_home_feat_4">Knit and Crochet Bolero Sweater</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/64058763/mens-handknit-scarf-george-bernard-shaw?ref=shop_home_active_12">George Bernard Shaw Men's Scarf</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/69201204/organic-cotton-crochet-scarf-cowl-grass?ref=shop_home_active_21">Organic Cotton Crochet Cowl</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/63827680/saint-patricks-day-scarf-irish-moss?ref=shop_home_feat_1">Irish Moss Scarf</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/21481408/green-lace-knit-shawl-emerald-and-teal?ref=shop_home_active_10">Emerald and Teal Lace Shawl</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/62781474/olive-mohair-knit-shawl-wrap-stole?ref=shop_home_active_7">Olive Mohair Knit Shawl</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/16047216/seaweed-crochet-scarf-cowl-lariat-wrap?ref=shop_home_active_13">Seaweed Crochet Scarf</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/57718818/woodlands-knit-wrap-cape-ecofriendly?ref=shop_home_active_4">Walk in the Woods Wrap</a>.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Next I'd like to share a selection of green crochet fiber art jewelry that's available at my Etsy shop:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrbPKteKYxFWfU24thBkHfkTC1tBEhqQPjjkvDEhhD6PcrN53kKihZdoU2JpcYKDcUbxUs6Mvy-7ZYipmJZzFMvIB0YLP0ypFrpA1dy2I9D_dgT77ESVV-J95UM6uV7Wx9qHqr/s1600/St.PatricksDayJewleryCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrbPKteKYxFWfU24thBkHfkTC1tBEhqQPjjkvDEhhD6PcrN53kKihZdoU2JpcYKDcUbxUs6Mvy-7ZYipmJZzFMvIB0YLP0ypFrpA1dy2I9D_dgT77ESVV-J95UM6uV7Wx9qHqr/s1600/St.PatricksDayJewleryCollage.png" height="640" width="354" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Starting with the lariat at the upper right and going clockwise these are: <span style="color: black;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/61496598/crochet-vine-lariat-necklace-headband?ref=shop_home_active_11">Leafy Vine Lariat</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/124115485/irish-shamrock-crochet-necklace-sage?ref=shop_home_active_15">Irish Shamrock Necklace</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/53444815/crocheted-and-beaded-ring-green-sea?ref=shop_home_active_13">Beaded Crochet Sea Flower Ring</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/61496598/crochet-vine-lariat-necklace-headband?ref=shop_home_active_11">Leafy Vine Lariat</a> (worn as hair jewelry), <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/25958565/crochet-necklace-lariat-under-sea-flora?ref=listing-shop-header-1">Under Sea Flora Lariat</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/94805738/st-patricks-day-necklace-emerald-green?ref=shop_home_active_14">Emerald Green St. Patrick's Day Necklace</a>.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Finally, there's still plenty of time to knit and crochet one of these gifts for St. Patrick's Day:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7jFhpG6Q2Am7NTtW45LgZKxXTKTtWdPqaAtrjrLDVnLhs9YDLvcClOd2DQMFqjbyuopQVMwi6wy8B0L-WfWED6Xt5QnRepDDPEtNuevVcOMwd0vIUeQAGVu1GG7uu1jw48yx/s1600/StPatricksDayPatternCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7jFhpG6Q2Am7NTtW45LgZKxXTKTtWdPqaAtrjrLDVnLhs9YDLvcClOd2DQMFqjbyuopQVMwi6wy8B0L-WfWED6Xt5QnRepDDPEtNuevVcOMwd0vIUeQAGVu1GG7uu1jw48yx/s1600/StPatricksDayPatternCollage.png" height="640" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Starting at the top these patterns are: <span style="color: black;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/52231940/knit-cowl-scarf-pattern-convertible?ref=shop_home_active_4">Garter Rib Knit Cowl / Capelet Pattern</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/102498406/leprechaun-baby-knitting-pattern-green?ref=shop_home_active_20">Leprechaun Baby Cocoon Set Pattern</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/53137566/go-green-6-knit-dishcloth-pattern-pack?ref=listing-shop-header-0">Go Green Dishcloths Pattern</a>.</span> You will be able to finish any one of these designs in anywhere from two hours to an evening or two.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">If you have any questions about anything in this post, please contact me here or at <a href="http://www.knittingguru.etsy.com/">http://www.KnittingGuru.etsy.com</a> and I'll be glad to speak with you. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">To celebrate the holiday, use coupon code </span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">STPADDYSDAY10
at Etsy checkout through March 31, 2015 and get 10% off any or the items shown in this posting! (Please note that except for the patterns, each item is one-of-a-kind only so there's only one available.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Happy St. Patrick's Day!</span></div>
KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-33859990709719744312015-01-11T09:20:00.000-08:002015-01-11T11:11:42.497-08:00Happy New Year - Next Up Valentine's Day<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I wish you all a Happy New Year 2015 and am looking forward to making some pretty things now for Valentine's Day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I last posted on Thanksgiving, and since then there's been nothing but celebrating in our home with family get-togethers and also the arrival of twin boys in the family! My needles and hooks have been Very Active!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Now, with Valentine's Day only about a month away, I'm working on some "heart-felt" projects. If there's any small project you'd like me to design, contact me here and maybe there'll be time to complete it. In the meantime, here are some suggestions for things to knit and crochet for Valentine's Day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfZNsiyVvs44AaHEi0rJTV30AXHIi8dWB0aj0gvCtGYhy7-AeQapvVyUgmVediZ2HPcAvujO9eLh_kIWwi-f_HOm6Gn_LxJvHxJJHJnSB-z6d30JNh2WjTWpf9xRZG4yVXkjNz/s1600/HeresMyHeartScarfCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfZNsiyVvs44AaHEi0rJTV30AXHIi8dWB0aj0gvCtGYhy7-AeQapvVyUgmVediZ2HPcAvujO9eLh_kIWwi-f_HOm6Gn_LxJvHxJJHJnSB-z6d30JNh2WjTWpf9xRZG4yVXkjNz/s1600/HeresMyHeartScarfCollage.png" height="640" width="128" /></a><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Project 1 -- Valentine Knitted Scarf</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I'm very fond of this Here's My Heart Scarf and Headband. It's quick to knit and is a great stash-buster since it uses only an ounce or so of worsted weight yarn. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Part of the heart shaping involves knitting several stitches together. This is clearly explained and illustrated in the pattern. You will also need to graft the two sides of the scarf together. There is a tutorial to show you how to do this. The pattern is suitable for advanced beginners and intermediate knitters. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">However, everything is presented in clear step-by-step fashion, so an intermediate knitter would be able to make this and it's also really fast to knit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The headband may be worn in the two ways shown here and has a very boho quality to it. It would be quite fetching for Valentine's Day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The pattern includes a variation I call Hearts and Flowers since there are sweet little crocheted flowers on the scarf heart ends. This is definitely for the romantics among us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">You can get the pattern <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/174143872/valentine-heart-scarf-headband-pattern?ref=shop_home_active_17">Here</a><b><span style="color: #cc0000;">. </span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Project 2 -- Bulky Crochet Cowl for Beginners </span></b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm2o3TWxRj06rI_rX4bTyWf7R1lB0AMpdPnJFzwTNzprlX-v2UB4BH44mZ9744l3lfM0_8YpI3fQZOMt9J9ZreQ4FzRqW_qAyNhfvynt2MW8H0dnI-ZhyKGaRPdVMfFoybxnD4/s1600/30MinCowlV-DayCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm2o3TWxRj06rI_rX4bTyWf7R1lB0AMpdPnJFzwTNzprlX-v2UB4BH44mZ9744l3lfM0_8YpI3fQZOMt9J9ZreQ4FzRqW_qAyNhfvynt2MW8H0dnI-ZhyKGaRPdVMfFoybxnD4/s1600/30MinCowlV-DayCollage.png" height="640" width="128" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The design for this cowl came about because I saw a fascinating Jumbo Crochet Hook from Lion Brand. It was a size S (19mm) and really, really big. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I wondered if something could be made with it that would only take a few minutes, but that would allow the yarn to form graceful stitches and a soft, draping fabric. I used several different yarns to make samples of this cowl and they each looked and felt great. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The pattern gives suggestions for different yarns to use - both high-end and inexpensive. The cowl can also be made from 3 strands of knitting worsted held together as one. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The real beauty of this design is that even new crocheters can make this in 1/2 hour - using only 1 skein of yarn!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">If you're an experienced crocheter, you'll be able to make this in 15 to 20 minutes. Think of all the Valentine Gifts you can make! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I'm showing it here in red, the traditional Valentine color, but it looks good in any color and if made in masculine shades, it's also great for men.</span>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">You can get this pattern <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/199540179/crochet-cowl-pattern-30-minutes1-skein?ref=shop_home_active_17">Here</a>.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgWyazE3C4TL0Gyn9JzLsBofjrnwk6EB2depufb3queq3gLbF54khcxlfz6bryoOnOfvVJoBeo5757EwE8kRE-qKL-SsluiNM2qtsGSoD8mF3F1gjmTXNTo4P0bDqCT9n1ndBr/s1600/HeartLaceScarfVDayCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgWyazE3C4TL0Gyn9JzLsBofjrnwk6EB2depufb3queq3gLbF54khcxlfz6bryoOnOfvVJoBeo5757EwE8kRE-qKL-SsluiNM2qtsGSoD8mF3F1gjmTXNTo4P0bDqCT9n1ndBr/s1600/HeartLaceScarfVDayCollage.png" height="640" width="128" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: #cc0000;"> Project 3 -- Heart Lace Knit Scarf </span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This beautiful scarf is perfect for intermediate knitters who want to use a lace panel within a textured background. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The pattern instructions are written out without abbreviations in Standard American Terminology (as are all KnittingGuru Patterns). I know that abbreviations can be confusing and knitters find themselves checking continually with the Key that explains them. This slows you down and makes the knitting more cumbersome. I only use complete English sentences in my patterns.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">In addition, some of us (myself included) are visual learners who find it far easier to follow charts than to read words while knitting. I've included a chart here for this two-pattern design. It will help you keep track of the rows as you knit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I've made this pattern many times since I designed it several years ago. It is, in fact, my personal favorite scarf. I made it in White Paton's Merino Wool and have been wearing it often for years. I always get compliments when people see it. You will too! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">You can get this pattern <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/119863336/knit-heart-lace-scarf-pattern-pdf?ref=shop_home_active_19">Here.</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: #cc0000;"> Wishing you all a very Sweet and Loving Valentine's Day! </span></b></span><br />
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KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-26615042300650082712014-11-27T09:02:00.000-08:002014-11-27T09:08:21.128-08:00Happy Thanksgiving Sale<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Wishing you all a Very Happy Thanksgiving!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">As we prepare our family feast, I wanted to take a minute to thank all of you for following KnittingGuruDesigns and to give you all a Black Friday / Cyber Monday treat. Just write Code #BlackFriday10 in your coupon code box when you check out of my <a href="http://www.knittingguru.etsy.com/">Etsy shop </a>and you'll receive a 10% discount on your purchase(s).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Here's just a sampling of what you'll find in my Etsy shop. I've put together some things in an Autumnal colorway to celebrate the holiday. Of course, there's much more to see and many other colors in my shop.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-fqQDw8iIDFjAWBf-HfG_vLNIHlPiQJgnltjPPfcKvx00XPPdkQoD4tnvQ6ezkP_FQIauqZSn17ul4ZrFu5bBZX4ylm4gx_0MAi0sZDIUVgv4deUc3BrZKS1n_-1q4CP5hhN_/s1600/KGAutumnCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-fqQDw8iIDFjAWBf-HfG_vLNIHlPiQJgnltjPPfcKvx00XPPdkQoD4tnvQ6ezkP_FQIauqZSn17ul4ZrFu5bBZX4ylm4gx_0MAi0sZDIUVgv4deUc3BrZKS1n_-1q4CP5hhN_/s1600/KGAutumnCollage.png" height="640" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Enjoy your Holiday and please stop by at http://www.KnittingGuru.etsy.com</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span>KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-16388535849234475842014-02-28T12:57:00.000-08:002015-01-11T10:46:50.207-08:003 Ways to Use 1 Pattern Many Times<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Do you like to use the patterns you purchase many times? It sure helps to get your money's worth when you can use a pattern over and over again! Many patterns are written so specifically using one particular yarn in one colorway that knitters and crocheters are often at a loss for how to reuse the pattern effectively. Also, yarns are often discontinued, which means older patterns may be impossible to follow exactly. What to do? Here are suggestions for how to use skills you already have to get more from patterns. I'm going to use my latest pattern - Tender Tendrils Scarf - as an illustration.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">1 - Change the color(s)</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This is an obvious change that anyone can make and it has a big impact. If you see a pattern you like that's shown in a summery pink, that doesn't mean you can't make it in a gorgeous green for spring. In addition, why not imagine a single color garment or accessory made in more than one color? What if you added a contrasting border or made it in stripes? All of these suggestions would completely change the look. I try to build this into all KnittingGuru patterns by giving as many examples as I'm able to knit/crochet and adding suggestions for altering patterns to make them your own. Look how different the Tender Tendril Scarf looks in different colors.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYym_SQi5dFMy0gcb-puMbCoxMO73yqHKVmF5-y4KiFb-BE7KsQZUKkUjgukSVNv_onFjVKkDXv_vkam57lO-caZbeliiyLecnX_JigTNWcxALqSgd9gfyq8LWNC2xmllp631/s1600/RedTendrilScarfTxt.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYym_SQi5dFMy0gcb-puMbCoxMO73yqHKVmF5-y4KiFb-BE7KsQZUKkUjgukSVNv_onFjVKkDXv_vkam57lO-caZbeliiyLecnX_JigTNWcxALqSgd9gfyq8LWNC2xmllp631/s1600/RedTendrilScarfTxt.png" height="400" width="280" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> Romantic Red Scarf</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOjC9B5cmlti2SBL6-uTbGPjcbs09fU3YXD6_OGqkWPmYGsEYm8rl6iUCKQPHoMXmdIhvWrNQUv1tv_V-s2LPNj_sM_nXKsLvUOR9l5Mh9WAhXVhTdOwKotvppi4k-AgnWqfq1/s1600/CocolateScarf3Crpd.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOjC9B5cmlti2SBL6-uTbGPjcbs09fU3YXD6_OGqkWPmYGsEYm8rl6iUCKQPHoMXmdIhvWrNQUv1tv_V-s2LPNj_sM_nXKsLvUOR9l5Mh9WAhXVhTdOwKotvppi4k-AgnWqfq1/s1600/CocolateScarf3Crpd.png" height="320" width="214" /> </a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Chocolate Licorice Scarf</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjj3uGIf2N6xSVPDKQ2h28dhoGa5wlkNUMxpOxT1PQmcmmRvhYBe8t_U66Lo2uxXeQKvOWWscM3jgPUAgUbHeHs4Xg6wzh7sPPSj5OkhfqL1RCRPE9fmiWWTcQs99-8EFyUMFc/s1600/PurplePassionScarf6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjj3uGIf2N6xSVPDKQ2h28dhoGa5wlkNUMxpOxT1PQmcmmRvhYBe8t_U66Lo2uxXeQKvOWWscM3jgPUAgUbHeHs4Xg6wzh7sPPSj5OkhfqL1RCRPE9fmiWWTcQs99-8EFyUMFc/s1600/PurplePassionScarf6.png" height="320" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Purple Passion Scarf</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">And look what happens when you add a second color!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEEQrGYzfImAua_Z2suWJ7McIYpJOh_VZZ3n1OZmDldJ_aZ0JqyoZBiZ_FdkMGc3RZXNOlCF0o8jdnHlU9IlrZ6CnaVbbN-eQWgFNBwIUACiITtvSiPOHKLk9UgxIIInQqHZN7/s1600/Black&WhiteTendrils1bPic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEEQrGYzfImAua_Z2suWJ7McIYpJOh_VZZ3n1OZmDldJ_aZ0JqyoZBiZ_FdkMGc3RZXNOlCF0o8jdnHlU9IlrZ6CnaVbbN-eQWgFNBwIUACiITtvSiPOHKLk9UgxIIInQqHZN7/s1600/Black&WhiteTendrils1bPic.png" height="320" width="279" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> Zebra Scarf </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6y5ohrsjn62SFM7_Rg_GUAvLaBdb66fc6IQgKL2Xeshjb-rGwtlUKsiFg8L50ppOs94MRatRm0NapxQI5SQEWrOfBOWf7jd0vBrA3DTKnFGu9sm1k6Bb5njaK8yCZkzuV_9Cr/s1600/BlackTurquoiseTendrilsCrpdTxt.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6y5ohrsjn62SFM7_Rg_GUAvLaBdb66fc6IQgKL2Xeshjb-rGwtlUKsiFg8L50ppOs94MRatRm0NapxQI5SQEWrOfBOWf7jd0vBrA3DTKnFGu9sm1k6Bb5njaK8yCZkzuV_9Cr/s1600/BlackTurquoiseTendrilsCrpdTxt.png" height="400" width="270" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Turquoise Tempest Scarf</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">2 - Change the fiber content of the yarn</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">All of the scarves shown above are made with wool knitting worsted. If you switch to cotton worsted weight yarns, look at the difference. Because cotton is much heavier than wool, you may need to shorten the pattern or change it in other ways to compensate for this weight difference so that the finished garment isn't too heavy to be comfortable to wear.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEubN4RD374ksBgZHW0g3e-hqoZR0AJE-nkhs56r0nImIPSrX6bDQjgPbP7qa56gCfp7ansWnuBqclZqNhdFD2w3vGPDP7-Duvq1ET6mnhphP2CL0wYptX68aw8VkNKbUamb32/s1600/DesertFlowerScarf4.2New.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEubN4RD374ksBgZHW0g3e-hqoZR0AJE-nkhs56r0nImIPSrX6bDQjgPbP7qa56gCfp7ansWnuBqclZqNhdFD2w3vGPDP7-Duvq1ET6mnhphP2CL0wYptX68aw8VkNKbUamb32/s1600/DesertFlowerScarf4.2New.png" /></a> </div>
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Desert Flower Scarf</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJeztix2xutQ9CNNP1UXs4h0x0-FdwS5SfcV1ru9jTJr3g2ZcIQsACGqCci2LBzdjexraJISuWmpcNpnft1gA2E4_LeLygcBL5JDiVldBwkYjkqt5DWRtt_1HcE9K_spNikBfS/s1600/DesertFlowerScarf4.2New.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeZ-tbjeXmME3qclyOIw86URvJwzUHtR3zpbfYWTARhbteCREw4zkSeuUoLGSD-Lo1vGwh6FijGa8dyXb7MdmvP5f6YpgOYd4MBP_N0M79hI_mP1xesRCYKuNTWiBCtbgUMHPO/s1600/BlueHydrangeaScarf8Txt.png" height="320" width="239" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Blue Hydrangea Scarf</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Changing to a fluffy yarn such as mohair or angora will totally alter the feel and look. Using fuzzy and brushed yarns often requires a change in the stitches. For example, in knitting, the stitches will be blurred with this kind of yarn so you may want to use a simpler stitch. Always make a sample first!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicALe322iM9zNbzS2MbmQd5xYxgzUHr365TMf5zBPyqI5Wr_Oq4I8eUUYIDOCHM1uQ1D4DrI3NtGpyNDd4ZoDTsNk4m0QV3kbv4_RWq3eYAG5WzX7PwTFOTC4_7JsxJunoB6tM/s1600/CoralPinkScarf2Crpd.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicALe322iM9zNbzS2MbmQd5xYxgzUHr365TMf5zBPyqI5Wr_Oq4I8eUUYIDOCHM1uQ1D4DrI3NtGpyNDd4ZoDTsNk4m0QV3kbv4_RWq3eYAG5WzX7PwTFOTC4_7JsxJunoB6tM/s1600/CoralPinkScarf2Crpd.png" height="320" width="232" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Pink Bunny Scarf</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifYnzkhi4KgDK78zRfh_M9zdk3VefaThOM8y1jfd0XnZO421qSwnUjfpAIvvGB7UudBBVTwTgYzNyh95Gf6EAypGZgmBtnu3d_No2dSMqnOykMSUm8rJR2_Cgbup_3SJwiTDe2/s1600/NovemberNirvanaCowlTxt.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifYnzkhi4KgDK78zRfh_M9zdk3VefaThOM8y1jfd0XnZO421qSwnUjfpAIvvGB7UudBBVTwTgYzNyh95Gf6EAypGZgmBtnu3d_No2dSMqnOykMSUm8rJR2_Cgbup_3SJwiTDe2/s1600/NovemberNirvanaCowlTxt.png" height="320" width="268" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">November Nirvana Scarf</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Using a boucle yarn with pronounced bumps will yield another design element that changes the appearance of what you are knitting or crocheting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEf5CXXefx3MkotBwmVXqJIewi2z_DSP6vL-PjnGJvEfnoFGZrtwN21RZFDUNmsqrwrTpCyTrMkJV8coYU1O7xqqWRnFHs2Ko1JRzWz7OnyCCZBGf9Kwy2sQEoa81IC2Ue4-Y/s1600/ZanyZinnia2ICrpd2C.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEf5CXXefx3MkotBwmVXqJIewi2z_DSP6vL-PjnGJvEfnoFGZrtwN21RZFDUNmsqrwrTpCyTrMkJV8coYU1O7xqqWRnFHs2Ko1JRzWz7OnyCCZBGf9Kwy2sQEoa81IC2Ue4-Y/s1600/ZanyZinnia2ICrpd2C.png" height="320" width="300" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Zany Zinnia Scarf </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIrhbm1sJsxHJruYXis0sH8bEVLXsYS1s8iY-NJkqTy8a-B12_ZXe9XYUupnSANYKXetCgUFo0Vihyv9pTLM_fMgXONeazoGp_7l0wASnAdIresKMj0R57ayk6_HrQ_dRG6cCl/s1600/CoralScarf5Txt.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIrhbm1sJsxHJruYXis0sH8bEVLXsYS1s8iY-NJkqTy8a-B12_ZXe9XYUupnSANYKXetCgUFo0Vihyv9pTLM_fMgXONeazoGp_7l0wASnAdIresKMj0R57ayk6_HrQ_dRG6cCl/s1600/CoralScarf5Txt.png" height="320" width="268" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Pink Coral Scarf</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">3 - Change stitch details and dimensions</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Changing to a different stitch can make a huge difference in the look of a garment or accessory. If you see a sweater pattern in stockinette and you want to add some textural interest, you could use an eyelet, lace, cable or knit/purl combination stitch. Of course you need to make a sample and block it to be sure the gauge is correct. Make adjustments for number of stitches or needle/hook sizes as needed. In the examples below, I've changed the length of the crocheted tendrils to get a different look. The Seaweed Scarf and the Rosy Sunset Scarf have sorter tendrils and the Springtime Hydrangea Scarf has longer tendrils, closer together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio9TM1vcQEa86n2PltBmre7CbvFAGc4j6zSif2O4QY5DnEUpLJjGa9ALGGE9SGH115bD7u4lx8573DHhk-lKLd3K1DFcEv7SPC7UCpi0Tm7aUUL29dSTzKfoRN7jmEziN4Lbaq/s1600/SmallSeaweed.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio9TM1vcQEa86n2PltBmre7CbvFAGc4j6zSif2O4QY5DnEUpLJjGa9ALGGE9SGH115bD7u4lx8573DHhk-lKLd3K1DFcEv7SPC7UCpi0Tm7aUUL29dSTzKfoRN7jmEziN4Lbaq/s1600/SmallSeaweed.png" height="320" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Seaweed Scarf</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ8brXLi0u28kqCHKKijpl7ZiFRzEUKTD0fOBZTGQkwi6XCroON6BUjmNfN7Tnb5iVJ0U8qr3NszSpSd37zPijiwTOTsiGbp0qBMtVmUVPy9g0rNvkTftYzkbOyUNC8HoUVn0V/s1600/SprngHyacthLariatScrf2aCrpd.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ8brXLi0u28kqCHKKijpl7ZiFRzEUKTD0fOBZTGQkwi6XCroON6BUjmNfN7Tnb5iVJ0U8qr3NszSpSd37zPijiwTOTsiGbp0qBMtVmUVPy9g0rNvkTftYzkbOyUNC8HoUVn0V/s1600/SprngHyacthLariatScrf2aCrpd.png" height="320" width="300" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Springtime Hydrangea Scarf</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbKqFF1i87vzN1gIwxwmHK6bpY__VFhBUUzQhwgNy5sN__BjC798Y-sgFI_WtnWoAZ4NUe32bLCAfU-OmlAi5WJuQlRzJDpjHkDxhsb_2R5GXSb_DxgcLrCtxAQbl4eEjx0fz/s1600/RosySunsetScarf3Txt.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbKqFF1i87vzN1gIwxwmHK6bpY__VFhBUUzQhwgNy5sN__BjC798Y-sgFI_WtnWoAZ4NUe32bLCAfU-OmlAi5WJuQlRzJDpjHkDxhsb_2R5GXSb_DxgcLrCtxAQbl4eEjx0fz/s1600/RosySunsetScarf3Txt.png" height="400" width="308" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Rosy Sunset Scarf</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> And Finally...</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Making any of these three changes absolutely requires some sampling to check the feel, appearance and drape, as well as to be sure to get the correct gauge. The sampling is well worth doing so that you can personalize the pattern and make it many times. All the scarves pictured here are made from one pattern that you can get at my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/177419510/crochet-scarf-pattern-tutorial-tender?ref=shop_home_active_11">Etsy Shop</a> or my <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/crocheting/accessory/tender-tendrils-crochet-scarf-tutorial/84116">Craftsy Shop</a>. If you decide you want to do some design experimenting with this you can always email me for suggestions and help. My email is on every pattern and I love to discuss knitting and crochet, and to answer questions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">If you have general questions about these three important ways to add variety and spice to your knitting and crocheting, please comment here and I'll be happy to respond.</span></div>
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KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-9420322433004908182013-12-19T13:23:00.001-08:002015-01-11T11:09:55.481-08:00Presenting the 30 Minute Crochet Cowl (for those who need some last minute Christmas gifts)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Christmas is only 6 days away but I still have a few things I need for gifts. Last week, thinking about this need, I set out to design a chunky cowl that could be made in an hour. When I finished the cowl, I check the clock and it had only taken me 1/2 hour! Amazing! Here's the story of how to do this. It's so easy even a beginner could make this in 30 minutes. An experienced crocheter will find, after the first cowl, that they'll be making these much faster.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">In addition to speed, this cowl only takes 1 100 gram skein of bulky yarn, so you can indulge in some of the wildly gorgeous yarns available without spending too much. The other thing you'll need is a Jumbo Size S (19mm) crochet hook. This is a really big hook that measures 2 1/2 inches in diameter on the handle. This picture shows the hook with a penny next to it so that you can get an idea of just how big it is:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicfQmqCCwvTCkY7EnL0jJ0dY7sGstXikldkviQHZnnSkBbjC38SwLxsKlAyxp5GaHEK3f45wOTvRzDkg8Z4kG_7IKgiwW3EbHZPsrh1qaAfe-cOkvcSL2u-rgQS6UAkCMiYetB/s1600/Size+Q+Crochet+Hook.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicfQmqCCwvTCkY7EnL0jJ0dY7sGstXikldkviQHZnnSkBbjC38SwLxsKlAyxp5GaHEK3f45wOTvRzDkg8Z4kG_7IKgiwW3EbHZPsrh1qaAfe-cOkvcSL2u-rgQS6UAkCMiYetB/s400/Size+Q+Crochet+Hook.png" height="140" width="400" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Generally speaking, using these gigantic hooks and knitting needles results in rather stiffly thick accessories and garments and I definitely wanted a soft cowl that draped well and was comfortable to wear. To accomplish that, I used a very simple, but open crochet stitch. Incredibly, the stitch only uses chain stitches and single crochets. It's the way they're arranged with spaces between them that makes the beautiful texture and drape of the cowl.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">For the first cowl I used a beautiful blue, 100% Merino, bulky yarn by Tahki called Baby. I chose the blue because I wanted to make a unisex cowl. Here's how it came out:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I always knit or crochet my patterns at least one more time to check for accuracy and, in this case, to make sure the cowl really only took 1/2 hour. For the second cowl I chose a lovely grayish mauve wool yarn from Rowan called Big Wool Fusion. While still in the bulky class of yarn, it actually had a few more yards to the 100 gram ball than the Tahki yarn - 87 yards as opposed to only 60 yards for the Tahki. This meant that when I crocheted the same length as the first cowl, I really could have gone on to make it longer so that it would be an Infinity Scarf. The stitch definition was quite lovely with this smooth yarn. I did check my work time and it was less than 1/2 hour! Here's the mauve scarf:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Since these two came out so well, and since they took so little time, I found myself a bit addicted to this design so I tried it with two other yarns. The third cowl I made with Rowan's 100% Wool Chunky Tweed. You can tell from the name that this was a chunky rather than a bulky yarn. Moreover, when I tried using just one strand, the thick and thin nature of this yarn left large open spaces that were not appealing. Because of this I used a double strand of the Chunky Tweed to make the third scarf. The texture is really wonderful I think.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Since I was on a roll here, and since it is about to be Christmas, I couldn't resist making a fourth cowl using my old workhorse yarn - Paton's Merino Wool Classic - in red. I crocheted this cowl with three strands of yarn held together as one. This worked out very well and gave the cowl a different texture because of the three distinct strands used to form each stitch. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">So there you have it! 4 cowls made in just 2 hours with a giant hook and bulky weight yarn. The pattern can be found in my <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/crocheting/accessory/30-minute--cowl---1-skein-wonder/79561">Craftsy</a> shop and my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/199540179/valentine-crochet-cowl-pattern-30?ref=shop_home_active_8">Etsy</a> shop. If you make this cowl, please send me pictures. I'd love to post a gallery of them here and feature your work!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> Happy Holidays to All!</span></div>
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KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-28264057100489722732013-12-06T11:00:00.001-08:002013-12-06T11:01:08.676-08:00Cozy Knits for Christmas<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Christmas will be here
soon and if you're like me, you're knitting and crocheting lots of
gifts. It's always good to find some quick knits at this time of year,
so I did want to let you know about a book I came across recently called
Cozy Knits edited by Tanis Gray. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> This book includes 50 projects to knit divided among 5 Chapters:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Heartfelt Hats</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Warm & Wonderful Mittens</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Cuddly Cowls & Scarves</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Snuggly Sweaters, Shawls & Shrugs</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Quick & Clever Gifts</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">There
are excellent illustrations and clear directions. All the stitches used
are charted, so if you like working from charts you'll be happy with
this. While there are some larger projects for sweaters, shawls and
blankets, there are enough quick projects to make this a good book to
use for holiday gifts. You can find the book <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/cozy-knits">here</a> from Interweave/F+W Media.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I
hope you find some nice things to make! I'll be posting some other
patterns soon for very quick knits and crocheted projects that you might
want to give for Christmas.</span>KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-31570636372370090972013-11-26T13:11:00.000-08:002013-12-10T13:51:18.949-08:00Let the Holidays Begin!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's two days before Thanksgiving and my mind is on the big feast - the menu planning, shopping, cooking, and so on. However, I'm a knitter, so I'm also thinking about holiday presents for everyone - what I have on hand and what I need to knit and/or crochet. This leads me to think about the yarns I have on hand, and believe me, at KnittingGuru there's always a huge stash of yarns. Still, I may have to order some new yarns for the season. That's why I jumped at the chance to add My Favorite Yarns on Craftsy to my blog. It updates the yarns for sale at Craftsy, including their many excellent deals. You can get a head start on these sales by checking the Craftsy Yarns in the right hand column of this page.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">While you're looking there, please also check out my Craftsy Pattern Store which has so many patterns for things to give for Christmas. I always think of the babies first at this time of year. For the littlest babies, why not whip up this <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/knitting/accessory/baby-bobbles-cocoon--hat---fast--easy/39334">Baby Santa Cocoon and Hat Set</a>. It takes only a few hours and not too much yarn. Think how cute your Christmas photos will be with baby wearing this!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/knitting/accessory/baby-bobbles-cocoon--hat---fast--easy/39334"><img alt="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/knitting/accessory/baby-bobbles-cocoon--hat---fast--easy/39334" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj36tMZQd525b9X75dMyb29NdrFUWqvGoUfURwQOikDVqGL3GoSVzqG6obZ4AOcZH4DA4kUtloh2mLJm4ljv9obJLQD0f_iwZ_SQVoSMkRwARpO4lQLhLLsMnVd4upD7WRk38bB/s1600/BabySantaCocoonCollage.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The cocoon set is made with 200 grams of red knitting worsted used doubled and about 25 grams of white. While I used some Paton's Classic Merino Wool to make this cocoon because I had it on hand, it would knit up beautifully in Cascade 220 Yarn in Ruby which has the same yardage. And... if you click on that yarn in My Favorite Yarns on Craftsy, you'll see that the regular price is $7.65, but it's now On Sale at Craftsy for $5.40 per skein. That means you could make this cocoon set for less than $16.20 for the yarn and only $6.50 for the pattern.The white yarn will last for many projects, so the next time you make this set your cost will only be $10.80 if you take advantage of this current sale at Craftsy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">That's very little to make such a warm and cozy outfit for your baby or grandchild. But consider this -- The very same pattern can be used to make a springtime or Easter cocoon with other colors. You might want to pick the beautiful Goldenrod Yellow, the Mystic Purple, or the Puget Sound Blue to make the cocoon and hat and trim them with your left-over white. I'm sure once you make this speedy pattern, you'll want to do it again and again for your baby, and those of your relatives and friends. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">So while your checking your turkey and pumpkin pie recipes, take a minute and click </span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.craftsy.com/supplies/cascade-220-yarn/2068?ext=dbe57d3b-123a-4b39-96f9-4f027cffbfd4">here</a> to</span> see the color choices for Cascade 220 now!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.craftsy.com/supplies/cascade-220-yarn/2068?ext=dbe57d3b-123a-4b39-96f9-4f027cffbfd4"> </a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Happy Thanksgiving to All! </span>KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-15473502816788953592013-11-19T13:29:00.000-08:002013-11-20T08:38:40.808-08:00Signs of Autumn - Part 3 - The Pumpkin Baby Cocoon<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">My final Autumn post for this year is the quintessential Autumn vegetable - The Pumpkin!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">What can we say about pumpkins? They look good, they taste good, and they're a great color. So my knitting brain naturally connected this to babies who also always look great, especially when they're wearing cuddly cocoons. First came the Carrot Cocoon, then the Green Pea Pod Cocoon, and now the Pumpkin Baby Cocoon....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Just what's needed for taking babies Over the River and Through the Woods to Grandmother's House on Thanksgiving, or any other day! The cocoon is snug and warm for Autumn strolls in the carriage, photo-ops, or just cuddling. It's a great way to calm your infant! The pattern has a photo tutorial on how to knit the leaves and includes step-by-step pictures and directions for making invisible increases.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Here's a full view of the cocoon:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This Pumpkin Cocoon is available as a knitting pattern and there's also one available that I knitted in pure Merino wool. The pattern is available at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/169015088/pumpkin-baby-cocoon-pattern-fast-easy?ref=shop_home_feat">Etsy</a> and <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/knitting/accessory/easy-pumpkin-cocoon--knit-leaf-tutorial/76281">Craftsy</a>. The ready-to-wear cocoon is available at my Etsy <a href="http://www.burrybabies.etsy.com/">BurryBabies</a> shop.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />Wishing you all a wonderful Thanksgiving!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span>KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-42986965058664876672013-10-31T09:04:00.000-07:002013-11-03T01:16:26.553-07:00Signs of Autumn Part 2 - Happy Halloween!<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Happy Halloween everyone!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I was going to write many more Signs of Fall, but this year the season has been extraordinarily busy for me. Most importantly, my daughter got married on October 5th and between the lead time and the aftermath time, it took me several weeks to get back on schedule. A very happy event!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">At any rate, my Carrots and Peas Baby Cocoon Patterns did very well this year as newborn baby costumes. </span><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/110361811/carrot-baby-cocoon-and-hat-knitting?ref=shop_home_feat"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Carrot Baby Cocoon and Hat Set</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/102498406/halloween-baby-cocoon-set-knitting?ref=shop_home_active"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Green Pea Pod Baby Cocoon Set</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtHUN5qbiCCF0B3lydjnY3GKQO44sa9V9xXj7kK2FYzlbNlOKcDD6u3OSmMhjkNgmN6AAyZ2x8uHVDgw-tx0WuTCwqtDkBW604vHhalkEvm0nD5P8qgnF-yia5ZnrPGsRCpjVK/s1600/CocoonOnPeasAd.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtHUN5qbiCCF0B3lydjnY3GKQO44sa9V9xXj7kK2FYzlbNlOKcDD6u3OSmMhjkNgmN6AAyZ2x8uHVDgw-tx0WuTCwqtDkBW604vHhalkEvm0nD5P8qgnF-yia5ZnrPGsRCpjVK/s400/CocoonOnPeasAd.png" width="400" /> </a></div>
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These patterns have been popular for a couple of years because they are so fast and easy to make with thick yarn and big knitting needles. Even new knitters tell me they can finish one in a couple of evenings. These are adorable all year, not just for Halloween. They're always sweet for family pictures and would be a great way to bring baby "over the river and through the woods to Grandmother's house" for Thanksgiving! I was even thinking that if the bobbles on the Pea Pod Cocoon were made in red, this would be a terrific Santa's Elf pattern.</div>
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You can get these patterns in several places in addition to the links above: </div>
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http://www.craftsy.com/KnittingGuru</div>
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http://www.KnittingGuru.etsy.com </div>
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http://www.KnittingGuru.artfire.com</div>
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http://www.BurryBabies.etsy.com</div>
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http://www.ravelry.com/KnittingGuru</div>
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Finally, I'd like to share with you some of the many pictures knitters have sent me of the cocoons they made with these patterns.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3gtg7YAFy_LMixN3zAGwxIWxfJG7qc2A8-LJ9vxGu3lrVKtT4-ecjAVIyeSxhLWnoBGiTkRes_JAGGUXZYsKHPaEzypY6QL9tC7hUo_AAe2wEGsFJkA4VTNQJAiv6SZUW36ns/s1600/Carrots&PeasCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3gtg7YAFy_LMixN3zAGwxIWxfJG7qc2A8-LJ9vxGu3lrVKtT4-ecjAVIyeSxhLWnoBGiTkRes_JAGGUXZYsKHPaEzypY6QL9tC7hUo_AAe2wEGsFJkA4VTNQJAiv6SZUW36ns/s640/Carrots&PeasCollage.png" width="213" /></a></div>
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The last two pictures are of the cocoons made for brand new twins by their proud aunt. If you want to make both of the cocoons, I have a double pattern for them at a discount at <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/knitting/accessory/carrots--peas-baby-cocoons---fast-knit/45107">Craftsy</a> and at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/110611697/2-diy-knitting-patterns-baby-cocoons-and?ref=shop_home_active">Etsy</a>.</div>
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Aren't those twins amazing? They're already interacting with each other just days after birth! Most babies get to look like the one in the top picture when they're wearing a cocoon. Putting babies into cosy and snug wraps is a time honored way to help them be calm. I certainly found that to be true for my three babies. </div>
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Please write to me if you have any questions about these cocoons. I also have a Santa Baby Cocoon in my shops and am currently at work on a Duck Cocoon. I'm always happy to hear about requests for others you may be interested in.</div>
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Enjoy the Autumn! I'm working on some things for Thanksgiving now and taking lots of leafy walks too in my favorite season.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span>KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-67315847264185877962013-09-22T12:29:00.000-07:002013-09-22T12:29:04.142-07:00Signs of Autumn Part 1 - Sweet Buttered Corn<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Autumn is my favorite season. I love the foliage colors, the golden quality of the light, and the bountiful harvest. Here in New York City, there's lots of fresh corn available at the Union Square Farmers' Market and elsewhere. I've been gorging on Sweet Buttered Corn and will be having some tonight. I love it so much, I've made a soft woolen scarf dedicated to it. So even when there's no more corn to buy and eat, you can still wear it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I used a beautiful 100% soft wool yarn for the scarf. It's knitted and then edged with crocheted bobbles. The textural result gives it a definitely corn-like appearance. As a final touch, I added two tiny corncob buttons to each end. So when it comes to corn on the cob I say... eat it or wear it!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU98BlcVYf_ZwNoKHWuFYz_0cmSvzNI7DSKDZ_WvZeTYm1gi-DTqgktlRAHaU2HCk1kOCD8tkXWeD-nDcwELj8Vrs6ctVGzzxCQDze3HgU_iZ8V5jVjxna5nuvTJefloEw_t3P/s1600/SweetbutteredCornScarfCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU98BlcVYf_ZwNoKHWuFYz_0cmSvzNI7DSKDZ_WvZeTYm1gi-DTqgktlRAHaU2HCk1kOCD8tkXWeD-nDcwELj8Vrs6ctVGzzxCQDze3HgU_iZ8V5jVjxna5nuvTJefloEw_t3P/s1600/SweetbutteredCornScarfCollage.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This scarf is available in my Artfire store <a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/knittingguru/18198/golden_sweet_buttered_corn_scarf_-_soft__pure_wool/handmade/accessories/scarves">Here</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Happy Autumn!</span></div>
KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-20642309360588286502013-07-02T09:17:00.003-07:002013-07-02T14:31:56.158-07:00Happy 4th of July!<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">My 4th of July celebration preparation continues with my newest pattern - Red, White and Blue Coasters. You can make one of these coasters in less than 30 minutes including crocheting, finishing and blocking! Create a little excitement for any national holiday - Independence Day, Presidents' Day, Election Day, Memorial Day - with these Fireworks Coasters. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I'm very lucky to have a view of the frequent holiday fireworks in New York City from my house near the New York harbor. They're always spectacular and were the inspiration for these coasters. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I wish you all </span>a very happy 4th of July holiday!<br /><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv06BtarITZqApV3rbHuCI_bPYpjgL8Y6v62wHhGJ6ANUhfHTpnlnRHEoOLwQ5AOt_g-OBG2BsuRKDNO3TCqqpjGcD_pau3ftkNj5lhJijBMTF92Pcab7PegyBtJt6cIhe8y6Y/s1600/Blog-July4th.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv06BtarITZqApV3rbHuCI_bPYpjgL8Y6v62wHhGJ6ANUhfHTpnlnRHEoOLwQ5AOt_g-OBG2BsuRKDNO3TCqqpjGcD_pau3ftkNj5lhJijBMTF92Pcab7PegyBtJt6cIhe8y6Y/s1600/Blog-July4th.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This pattern is available at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/155555045/4th-of-july-crochet-coaster-pattern?ref=shop_home_active">Etsy</a> and <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/crocheting/home-decor/red-white--blue-coasters/59847">Craftsy</a>. Enjoy!</span><br />
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KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-31843673888797398652013-07-01T08:36:00.001-07:002013-07-01T08:39:58.209-07:00Firecracker Necklace for the 4th of July<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Are you getting ready for the 4th of July? I made this Firecracker Necklace to celebrate this year.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKMLFzYPVwgngOeiUJfPSe42OAkJOOqp1nKZ5DS8KuhHQm5rtcXLNreGE_igxQL0AfewLoRfzZV9ETyOeNYbb3U6l8ZdbhUW4LMEtNpvM_nHMkpMCuEKvWvKyG_0-vGDGTJbay/s1600/FirecrackerNecklace2Collage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKMLFzYPVwgngOeiUJfPSe42OAkJOOqp1nKZ5DS8KuhHQm5rtcXLNreGE_igxQL0AfewLoRfzZV9ETyOeNYbb3U6l8ZdbhUW4LMEtNpvM_nHMkpMCuEKvWvKyG_0-vGDGTJbay/s1600/FirecrackerNecklace2Collage.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The necklace is a
graduated series of curlicues on a choker base. I made it with a shiny
red rayon (bamboo) thread and added an appliqued gold metallic chain
around the base. The necklace fastens with a vintage button from the
1960s. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I've
made this style before and it's firm and durable - made to last for
decades. It's lightweight and fun to wear all year. Since it looks like
firecrackers to me, it's especially nice for celebrations. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">If
you crochet, please let me know by your comments here if you'd like me
to create a PDF pattern for this one and I'll add it to my TO DO list!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The necklace is available in my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/155022986/4th-of-july-firecracker-necklace-crochet?ref=shop_home_active">Etsy</a> shop. </span><br />
<br />KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-77651887359617050142013-06-03T11:06:00.002-07:002013-06-06T08:47:05.623-07:00Happy Father's Day Sale!<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I always make sure I have some Gifts for Men in my Etsy shop because I find it hard to buy presents for men. This week I'm having a Father's Day Sale. Just use code FREESHIPDAD when you checkout in my Etsy shop: <a href="http://www.knittingguru.etsy.com/">http://www.KnittingGuru.etsy.com</a> and you'll receive free shipping on your purchase in the Gifts for Men Section of my shop. Here's a picture of the knitted and crocheted men's scarves I have available. They're all made with luxurious Merino wool, English chunky wool, or mohair. They are also one of a kind or limited edition pieces, so you'll be getting an original.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg58EIzR9zsUuQpt9MgMz1AxVZ05Z_EzdJ5UebO0MfBmI1Lyhyphenhyphen54PfpozYyg3SzGSMYG-afWI9YMPQTwo51QV2f-BnBJtH2iP1_wpBK8gHGsCqoDCh-_KrMyYeyRlqO4LvzcBgU/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg58EIzR9zsUuQpt9MgMz1AxVZ05Z_EzdJ5UebO0MfBmI1Lyhyphenhyphen54PfpozYyg3SzGSMYG-afWI9YMPQTwo51QV2f-BnBJtH2iP1_wpBK8gHGsCqoDCh-_KrMyYeyRlqO4LvzcBgU/s400/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Also, there are still 14 days until Father's Day, so if you crochet, you can make the Fred Astaire Scarf featured in this picture in just a few short hours in your man's favorite colors. You can purchase the Fred Astaire Scarf in my Etsy shop in the Patterns Section, or at <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/project/view/fred-astaire-scarf/63068">Craftsy</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNiJO6kYuCMuKmQv3H6ujSiQYx_gXj66UJDA5meZOvcPEeekBlJVgeHL1n4_9OQ3yni_3Duo2Sipi-TiYAPDjXPeDb1155yxK3017zsSi8T7_ciJAOObNPZn8pJWOCyVIT2sxj/s1600/FredAstaireScarfCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNiJO6kYuCMuKmQv3H6ujSiQYx_gXj66UJDA5meZOvcPEeekBlJVgeHL1n4_9OQ3yni_3Duo2Sipi-TiYAPDjXPeDb1155yxK3017zsSi8T7_ciJAOObNPZn8pJWOCyVIT2sxj/s400/FredAstaireScarfCollage.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Thanks for stopping by and Happy Father's Day to All!</span>KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-12714609500774424202013-04-29T09:40:00.002-07:002013-04-29T09:42:13.615-07:00New Crochet Pattern at KnittingGuru<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Brand New This Week - the <b>'Round the Loop Crochet Scarf Pattern</b>. It's super-fast and easy to crochet. The stitches used are chain, slip stitch and half double crochet. You'll be surprised at the intricate texture you'll achieve using these simple stitches. Even a new crocheter could make one of these in an evening. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The scarves shown are made with Paton's Roving - a soft wool unplied yarn, and Web's Berkshire Bulky - a wool and alpaca singles yarn. Because of the pattern's openness, the yarn texture really stands out so that the scarf looks very different in these two yarns. Suggestions for ways to vary the scarf are given in the instructions. An effective substitute for the bulky yarns, for example, is to use knitting worsted doubled.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2t19QE5zmWXWRT2qlhcwF1Ycr6_qUmlsHZ_8ouhOGPmrguew42iTyDP2dRsLAeJKXKvBTbdp7LTRoHe2lQudlwL-A2CjmA3Z800LyPzbj8KbzCzav73OBGUMW81GS3KwfHHhT/s1600/RoundTheLoopScarfCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2t19QE5zmWXWRT2qlhcwF1Ycr6_qUmlsHZ_8ouhOGPmrguew42iTyDP2dRsLAeJKXKvBTbdp7LTRoHe2lQudlwL-A2CjmA3Z800LyPzbj8KbzCzav73OBGUMW81GS3KwfHHhT/s1600/RoundTheLoopScarfCollage.png" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">These scarves don't take much yarn at all. With one skein of each color, you'll have enough yarn left over to make a matching hat.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">You can get your pattern here at <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/crocheting/accessory/round-the-loop-easy-crochet-scarf/53426">Craftsy</a> or <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/130449566/fast-easy-crochet-scarf-round-the-loop?ref=shop_home_active">Etsy</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I hope you'll enjoy making this quick scarf! Please comment or ask me questions below.</span>KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-12755358687761075412013-04-26T11:57:00.003-07:002013-04-26T11:57:56.549-07:00Variety is the Spice of Life <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I like a lot of variety in life. When I knit or crochet something, I try to design it so that it may be worn many ways. My customers feel the same way I do and appreciate the versatility of their KnittingGuru designs.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The Tangerine Sherbet Swirl Summer Scarf exemplifies this philosophy. The addition of a removable tasseled drawstring allows the scarf to be worn gathered as a ruffled cowl, tied at the neck or lower, or tied casually without the drawstring. That's lots of variety for one small scarf!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-o9soh6GlESx3MbVKQtRF10mD9-sTzcwObhZ5YIN4T9ftwJHgekY7rsSbYYD4fGWDqgDQxb_0PhSoJp56-xbgg_2lQIm-Y5xfmZcaiC2h01EC6G3b0ZUiFBlMxc3PP10qkldS/s1600/TangerineSwirlSummerScarfCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-o9soh6GlESx3MbVKQtRF10mD9-sTzcwObhZ5YIN4T9ftwJHgekY7rsSbYYD4fGWDqgDQxb_0PhSoJp56-xbgg_2lQIm-Y5xfmZcaiC2h01EC6G3b0ZUiFBlMxc3PP10qkldS/s1600/TangerineSwirlSummerScarfCollage.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The Tangerine Swirl Summer Scarf is available at my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/14198349/crochet-summer-scarf-tangerine-sherbet?ref=shop_home_active">Etsy</a> shop. </span></div>
KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-41421724305472333372013-04-22T15:41:00.001-07:002013-04-26T11:30:00.397-07:00Vintage Knitting & Crochet Patterns: Buyer Beware!<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">When it comes to buying vintage knitting and crochet patterns, the Latin phrase Caveat Emptor - let the buyer beware - needs to be taken seriously. I'm in love with vintage knitting and crochet patterns and have been collecting them for many years. This is just a small fraction of my collection:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxZg-1a4nHBcvvUgwcyMnC8ADy05B3c0phX23QnwdmvzPI3yQc5nFgYynIhnyvhITRWmKu-z_rhbWKgAhz2uK4t_Vkp-AftcK_lAcaL_SFMGQwq84dF0R3LEbxKeFkalQwD8T-/s1600/VintagePatternBookCollection.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxZg-1a4nHBcvvUgwcyMnC8ADy05B3c0phX23QnwdmvzPI3yQc5nFgYynIhnyvhITRWmKu-z_rhbWKgAhz2uK4t_Vkp-AftcK_lAcaL_SFMGQwq84dF0R3LEbxKeFkalQwD8T-/s400/VintagePatternBookCollection.png" width="387" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> To look at the great styles of the past and the beautiful workmanship of previous generations of knitters and crocheters is always inspiring. However, it's important to remember that many things have changed since those patterns were written. Do not expect to buy a facsimile pattern or a cleaned up PDF pattern and be able to follow the directions!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Here's why: yarns have changed, needles and hooks have changed, sizes have changed, and most important standards of clarity have changed. The handbag pattern begins with these instructions:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHAwXEIMLtuVKnI50IsF3e04bWVHS08InP4gr-0rHr-JPoNnE-4wBZdVDFhYhgFDwJ1zS-0109J6VO11ZwpfwZ8NPx4W0f5fLVvgPIVVCkPDMM973CqSd4XmnQtnIbqUETwW4e/s1600/SampleVintagePatternDirections.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="115" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHAwXEIMLtuVKnI50IsF3e04bWVHS08InP4gr-0rHr-JPoNnE-4wBZdVDFhYhgFDwJ1zS-0109J6VO11ZwpfwZ8NPx4W0f5fLVvgPIVVCkPDMM973CqSd4XmnQtnIbqUETwW4e/s400/SampleVintagePatternDirections.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Please keep in mind that the only parts of the pattern that are missing in this picture are the directions for the straps and inserting a zipper. In other words, this is all the instruction you get to make this lovely crocheted handbag from 1944:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii4dQXXiAKjoyNfOir4afnquIMkrjOX3CW75jmg9TOQInV6IhHZTU5rarpB1HNMVNYfBSh_Ul4rC9X8oVIYfEW-4dLiq075iHGuPL8co6hsGbsYau3lmDC6_IbNc6rgYMpB4iO/s1600/VintageCrochetHandbag1944.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii4dQXXiAKjoyNfOir4afnquIMkrjOX3CW75jmg9TOQInV6IhHZTU5rarpB1HNMVNYfBSh_Ul4rC9X8oVIYfEW-4dLiq075iHGuPL8co6hsGbsYau3lmDC6_IbNc6rgYMpB4iO/s640/VintageCrochetHandbag1944.png" width="487" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">What do the pattern instructions tell us to do? First of all we need 6 75 yard tubes of Jack Frost Cordet or we could substitute Soutashe, Ribbon Braid or Straw for that. Do you know what Jack Frost Cordet is or where to get it or the other yarns? The answer is that none of these yarns are available now. Cordet is now generally called corde and it's a dense, stiff yarn as is the soutashe. I'm not sure what ribbon braid looked like in the 1940s, but it definitely wasn't what we now think of as ribbon yarns which are usually quite lacy. I once had some of the yarn that was used to be called straw in the 1940s. It was very thin and dense also.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Looking further into the pattern, we're told we need a Size 5 White Crochet Hook. Would you know what size hook to use? Do they mean a vintage bone crochet hook? Possibly, but what size modern crochet hook should you use?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Modern knitting and crochet patterns always include the gauge which tells us how many stitches and rows equal an inch, or more likely 4 inches (10 centimeters). If we knew the gauge, we could crochet some swatches with yarns that seem similar to what is shown in the bag picture. After making several swatches, we would eventually find something suitable - maybe some heavy crochet cotton such as size 3. However, THERE IS NO GAUGE given in this pattern! This is not unusual for patterns published in the first half of the 20th century and earlier. Because of this, a lot more time would be necessary in order to come up with a suitable pattern for this bag.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Now let's examine the actual crochet instructions. We're told to make 79 circular motifs. That seems OK, but do they mean to actually make each motif separately, or do they want you to join them in strips? If you are to make each one separately, you're going to have a huge number of threads to weave into the inside of the bag! I suspect that the authors want you to join the motifs as you go along, but they don't say how. The finishing instructions tell indicate that strips of motifs should be sewn together, but they don't specify how to do that either. Looking at the bag, it seems to me that there are crochet stitches between the motifs, but the pattern makes no reference to them. Should the motifs really be crocheted together? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">At the end of the pattern when we're told to attach the zipper, we're instructed to join two of the motifs together and attach them to the zipper pull. There is no mention of lining this bag with it's hundreds of loose ends from all those motifs. I would expect that the average crocheter would be stymied by these instructions and would give up on this pretty bag. What a frustrating waste of time and money!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The next time you're tempted to buy a vintage pattern, please keep all of this in mind. It's not impossible to duplicate the design, but it does take a lot of work and time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Because I adore these patterns, I've started to produce some that I've updated - or translated - into modern knitting and crochet instructions so that they are doable. So far I've only done two: one for a belt and one for a hat that we would call a fascinator. Here are the two patterns I've updated.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjya29eL0r2gUjM3fmR-FduhbWOMwfv2J2souLMZ2EtNqwylV3kKJL1sqUmX9i6j7_ALa6IyhgZXxFqj-406wDKSDSXr957hn8qUS0RjYnR2MOagb9PH9iJ8bAiT_jINEr9DrYB/s1600/VintageCrochetBeltGreen.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjya29eL0r2gUjM3fmR-FduhbWOMwfv2J2souLMZ2EtNqwylV3kKJL1sqUmX9i6j7_ALa6IyhgZXxFqj-406wDKSDSXr957hn8qUS0RjYnR2MOagb9PH9iJ8bAiT_jINEr9DrYB/s400/VintageCrochetBeltGreen.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> 1940s Retro Crochet Belt Pattern</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6JvvQIg6qWvEt2Cq0qQB2Kgq41X4qE2ByoKL0XpP6XTdfZ-W-QYUY8CKLSO0fF53c_5K9fGO1mldvD01E8myhE94C_n2SuzZfU-rjpELxWIKQMckKNgYsSM6KJR-fjjjujrIN/s1600/TasselHat2HotPink.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6JvvQIg6qWvEt2Cq0qQB2Kgq41X4qE2ByoKL0XpP6XTdfZ-W-QYUY8CKLSO0fF53c_5K9fGO1mldvD01E8myhE94C_n2SuzZfU-rjpELxWIKQMckKNgYsSM6KJR-fjjjujrIN/s400/TasselHat2HotPink.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> 1940s Crochet Tassel Hat Pattern</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> To make these patterns, I first went through the process of figuring out what yarns would be suitable that are available now and what size crochet hooks should be used. I then retyped the instructions using large, easy to read type. (Did I mention that most of the vintage patterns are in tiny type?)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Then I worked on the pictures using Photoshop. I made them brighter and clearer, and just for fun I added color to the bag and belt. Each pattern shows several color variations to get your design started. I also added suggestions for ways to vary each pattern and finishing techniques so that the end result is professional looking.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Needless to say, each pattern took many hours to produce. I'd love to hear what you think of this project I've started. How interested would people be in acquiring these updated patterns? Please leave your comments here and I promise to answer them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Meantime, you can get these patterns in my Etsy shop.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/129089770/updated-vintage-pattern-pdf-1940s?ref=sr_gallery_1&ga_search_query=1940s+retro+crochet+belt+pattern&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_search_type=all">Belt Pattern</a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/129089770/updated-vintage-pattern-pdf-1940s?ref=shop_home_active"></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/129474270/1940s-retro-fascinator-hat-pattern-pdf?ref=sr_gallery_9&ga_search_query=1940s+tassel+hat&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_search_type=all">Hat Pattern</a></span></div>
KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-87614658431332035862013-04-02T14:44:00.000-07:002013-04-02T14:44:22.961-07:00Floral Forms Inspire Fiber Art Jewelry<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Flowers are an inspiring source for many kinds of crocheted and knitted jewelry. If you pick a simple floral shape, you can interpret it in thread crochet using perle cotton or embroidery floss. Stitched with tiny hooks, these threads will be dense and will keep their shape. You can wash the rings by hand so they will last indefinitely. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I'm very fond of Zinnias. They come in many colors and shapes and always look quite bold. I began with a pretty zinnia in gold, orange, and hot pink. First I crocheted the </span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">flower. It took shape beginning with a circle and proceeding outward in tendrils of variegated color. Then I crocheted the </span>band in a cotton and metallic dark gold perle cotton. I securely attached the flower to the band. This dramatic ring weighs almost nothing but packs a big visual punch. I hope you like it as much as I do!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuhWBu41OsNL8wdg1JFJl8JJCCoRazYOKMB4JKlR09NFA5FqX8ZDX5UYFv8z8wawxWxAhwa9ZT-6eERjWIYadPNr8hweKzPgeRqUOw-YwIkexkxnkA9619EErpGEVzL-6acyXG/s1600/ZinniaRingCollage+TextLargeXLarge.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuhWBu41OsNL8wdg1JFJl8JJCCoRazYOKMB4JKlR09NFA5FqX8ZDX5UYFv8z8wawxWxAhwa9ZT-6eERjWIYadPNr8hweKzPgeRqUOw-YwIkexkxnkA9619EErpGEVzL-6acyXG/s1600/ZinniaRingCollage+TextLargeXLarge.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This ring is available now at my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/46179838/crochet-flower-ring-tangerine-pink-gold?ref=shop_home_active">Etsy</a> shop. Each of my fiber art jewelry pieces is one-of-a-kind so when this ring sells, I could only approximate a similar one.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">There's a nifty little app available at Sherwyn-Williams that lets you separate out the colors from a picture you have. Here's what I came up with for the Zinnia: </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibKwYOhYVpu0-ACmvk4WDSuwmuiUZbNGoMghMXXSdFfEae6zBCHzZPmstl3-Dk4a5ZYfcWWpZxZuqo0WPis45Rg-Ipsn5LWeJNJj5S3QEmOCJNYmSLd9359jbfuGbkI8wX6FgH/s1600/ZinniaWithColorChips.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibKwYOhYVpu0-ACmvk4WDSuwmuiUZbNGoMghMXXSdFfEae6zBCHzZPmstl3-Dk4a5ZYfcWWpZxZuqo0WPis45Rg-Ipsn5LWeJNJj5S3QEmOCJNYmSLd9359jbfuGbkI8wX6FgH/s640/ZinniaWithColorChips.png" width="572" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">That was a little harsh for me so I ended up choosing these colors in floss for the ring:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_0622JV0X0WYNtcUEMHXyOyE6fp9VJgOJoeE0yelTYEN-TrDbS3BA5jS5-D518FMh7K6jPqXIoF0ffG2bhSmTPz0RKvt9YkxhW4SBO0DyOexCgg5nIxCRfyqiFINeD5JvdH1O/s1600/ZinniaRingWithColorChips.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_0622JV0X0WYNtcUEMHXyOyE6fp9VJgOJoeE0yelTYEN-TrDbS3BA5jS5-D518FMh7K6jPqXIoF0ffG2bhSmTPz0RKvt9YkxhW4SBO0DyOexCgg5nIxCRfyqiFINeD5JvdH1O/s640/ZinniaRingWithColorChips.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> They're similar shades but with a more predominant red/peach tone for the flower's center. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I hope you enjoy the spring and summer flowers and look to them for inspiration as I do. Please leave your thoughts, comments, etc. below and join in the conversation!</span></div>
<br />KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-59454266761179950932013-03-25T14:58:00.004-07:002013-03-29T12:04:28.453-07:00How to Crochet Floral JewelryMy flower garden is a great joy and one of the major sources of inspiration for my fiber art jewelry as well as my knitted and crocheted accessories. Each of my pieces begins with an image. In the case of this necklace, the image was of the humble morning glory. I'd like to invite you to share in my design process for making this piece.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3RFncrGp9TkHEWFEmUNVaJ_G0zArHYZRYyYxNbUAajksxIJs1XdhEjRkmWRqrRCJKBhuUcG_0rh09K-8BaKaktWy9Jj6-StqVxplOpaGKDaBOUCeLB5ljGjXYbFrvlFnBgsYS/s1600/XLMorningGloryLariatHowToCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3RFncrGp9TkHEWFEmUNVaJ_G0zArHYZRYyYxNbUAajksxIJs1XdhEjRkmWRqrRCJKBhuUcG_0rh09K-8BaKaktWy9Jj6-StqVxplOpaGKDaBOUCeLB5ljGjXYbFrvlFnBgsYS/s1600/XLMorningGloryLariatHowToCollage.jpg" /></a></div>
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Once the image is determined, I gather my materials: *crochet hooks *threads in cotton, bamboo and silk *beads and other findings. I then experiment with shapes. I'm not seeking to duplicate nature, but to interpret it in order to design versatile wearable art. The Morning Glory may be worn as a long lariat, a doubled and twisted choker, and even as a dainty looking headband. This is made with fine threads, but it's crocheted so tightly that it's very durable and even hand washable to last for many years.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSS9aHsAOd5ec_TH4GQoINgiZiy4db46OwnrTSjofvI2c2Dgm83VDJ1HLVUfAlRM6TkKJ9QATU-2b4x848tf4yBkQ5m12ssZiZ_1LRIA1sJoG8cHspn_ZgJ5OlmCuGOdqbTyUq/s1600/MorningGlory3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSS9aHsAOd5ec_TH4GQoINgiZiy4db46OwnrTSjofvI2c2Dgm83VDJ1HLVUfAlRM6TkKJ9QATU-2b4x848tf4yBkQ5m12ssZiZ_1LRIA1sJoG8cHspn_ZgJ5OlmCuGOdqbTyUq/s400/MorningGlory3.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Many people view morning glories as weeds because they're so invasive. I go after them in my garden too, but they're so lovely that I wanted to preserve them in this necklace. You can find my Morning Glory Lariat / Choker / Headband in my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/23983881/morning-glories-crochet-choker-lariat?ref=shop_home_active" rel="nofollow">Etsy</a> shop. To see all of my current Fiber Art Jewelry please click <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/KnittingGuru?section_id=5008847" rel="nofollow">here</a>. I'd be glad to speak with you about any questions you may have about this work. Just comment below to begin the discussion.KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-83505016644690225912013-03-19T15:20:00.001-07:002013-03-29T12:05:39.128-07:00Kudos for Craftsy from the KnittingGuru!I've been selling my patterns for years, but when I decided to open a pattern page on Craftsy.com the process became much more gratifying. The site is well organized and so beautiful to look at. It's rare that I find a venue where everything works perfectly and is absolutely intuitive. So I'm giving a shout out to Craftsy and would like to tell you about ways they've helped me too.<br />
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Last July my husband and I were in Paris and I was only checking my emails once a day. There are much better things to do in Paris than check emails! One day we came back from an arduous day strolling in the streets and parks and lounging in cafes and eating, and I noticed that I had sold many copies of my Delicate Lace Scarf Pattern. I wondered why so many of the same pattern were purchased at one time. During the next few days, this continued to happen.<br />
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg77htjFi0U0uhMfrQoVyUhTRNoxTOgpw8d22jCTvz-NVpiOzLxA7zbd4mzKppXAw69cq1UTSEhwuYtCgyKdRugzS6F9K32NO4kdrbPj0vVnZnUQRU0uXpFQN1xRG58dCz0H15j/s400/Forsythia3a.png" width="400" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/knitting/accessory/delicate-lace-scarf---easy-knitting/9326">http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/knitting/accessory/delicate-lace-scarf---easy-knitting/9326</a></div>
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It took a long time, but I finally understood. Craftsy had listed it as one of their Top 13 Lace Patterns and it was widely seen. Well that was great!<br />
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Then, in January, I got an email from Craftsy saying they wanted to feature my lace scarves in their blog. They sent me some interview questions for my responses. Again the high quality of Craftsy was evident in the intelligence of their questions. Instead of answering the same questionnaire I've always received from bloggers, they had some really interesting angles and it was a pleasure to respond. Here's the great article they put together: <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0B5wW7spJOdQfJ2akJgQ3UkIJyXFsLUEMSqugZJnjMQKPdTLvqgY6FD6JCzkXr8ScxaPWFyvPEplDgzjxYCO5HpEZW86vgOq7l7zcVo8QHCxFBkfykrPHrLq8JOXXrfbMJjkV/s1600/KnittingGuru_Knit_Lace.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0B5wW7spJOdQfJ2akJgQ3UkIJyXFsLUEMSqugZJnjMQKPdTLvqgY6FD6JCzkXr8ScxaPWFyvPEplDgzjxYCO5HpEZW86vgOq7l7zcVo8QHCxFBkfykrPHrLq8JOXXrfbMJjkV/s400/KnittingGuru_Knit_Lace.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.craftsy.com/blog/2013/01/meet-lace-knitting-pattern-designer-the-knittingguru/">http://www.craftsy.com/blog/2013/01/meet-lace-knitting-pattern-designer-the-knittingguru/</a></div>
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Finally, the second week in March, I was selected as a Craftsy Guest Pinner on Pinterest (another one of my passions that I must write about soon!)<br />
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Here's the Craftsy Blog article on my week of Guest Pinning: <br />
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<img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJcJd8DqXq8PHOlcYJwXhHC0b0B-kA67I4RTyzkqS_qOJitWahf9Lann5QstWmfquqCPU4NkfPgXjJ5slJNXqp52OPKZHt_yKUhToUigyjfRdTyYgDZN1v7bSyKz-KWyXM_luy/s400/KnittingGuruGuestPinner.png" width="400" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.craftsy.com/blog/2013/03/featured-pinners-joshua-veena/">http://www.craftsy.com/blog/2013/03/featured-pinners-joshua-veena/</a></div>
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The week is now over and I miss it. The response to my Craftsy Guest Pinning was amazing. So many people repinned my pins and responded positively. I added a few hundred new followers. It was a really great week. You can see my Craftsy Guest Pinner Board here:<a href="http://pinterest.com/Craftsy/guest-pinner-veena-of-knittingguru/"> http://pinterest.com/Craftsy/guest-pinner-veena-of-knittingguru/</a><br />
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I hope you enjoyed this story and that you'll follow me on Pinterest where I continue to pin every day at: <a href="http://pinterest.com/knittingguru/">http://pinterest.com/knittingguru/</a>KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-53132434432713096022012-09-12T07:11:00.001-07:002012-09-12T11:06:15.467-07:00DIY Fred Astaire Scarf PatternI'm really happy to say that after being included in dozens of treasuries on Etsy, my Fred Astaire Scarf is now going to a new home!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6a5c_YnWBrNlhJu428RwtoS7ShBVUqemTgFGnYfxDM-9UHIf62YxtQJlT0k6rWischhaYwQvQj5NZckk0KZzuIkuTghRdCgPSVEZ57sCHosykYIJmxY8jg4vKX9He2hvSaj-K/s1600/FredAstairInScarf.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6a5c_YnWBrNlhJu428RwtoS7ShBVUqemTgFGnYfxDM-9UHIf62YxtQJlT0k6rWischhaYwQvQj5NZckk0KZzuIkuTghRdCgPSVEZ57sCHosykYIJmxY8jg4vKX9He2hvSaj-K/s400/FredAstairInScarf.png" /></a></div><br />
I've always been a big fan of the debonaire Mr. Astaire and chose to include him in my series of knitwear dedicated to Old Time Movie Star Idols. Now that the scarf has a new owner, I've published a pattern so that even really new crocheters can make this fast and simple scarf. The pattern includes many suggestions for yarn and color variations, so there's no need to stick with the black and gray I chose for Fred. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxuW8Fsi8AZfJnRzY6x-TVLiP_uPiZVa2Ir6g2CZuc-mU6rcaiLx2gjRvXtThElnE33HHW_8vlWjYtjqwV_JdAvra82YZZsQCxhfTr6cq2KUI7UmYar4PL2iY7o7xqg-ms9WLp/s1600/MensGray%2526BlackScarf9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxuW8Fsi8AZfJnRzY6x-TVLiP_uPiZVa2Ir6g2CZuc-mU6rcaiLx2gjRvXtThElnE33HHW_8vlWjYtjqwV_JdAvra82YZZsQCxhfTr6cq2KUI7UmYar4PL2iY7o7xqg-ms9WLp/s400/MensGray%2526BlackScarf9.png" /></a></div><br />
You can get this pattern at <a href="http://www.Craftsy.com/KnittingGuru">Craftsy</a> Have fun making several of these for yourself or to give as holiday gifts. The scarf only takes a few hours and a small amount of yarn, so it's perfect for unique, inexpensive presents.<br />
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KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-9424099459618657532012-06-01T12:06:00.000-07:002012-06-07T14:28:05.649-07:00The Search for a Great Sunhat Ends Here!I don't know about you, but my search for a really great sunhat has been futile. Either they look good but don't keep enough sun off, or they're great looking but I don't want to lug around a big straw hat all day. (What do you do with those big hats when you go indoors?) Most hats I try on keep the sun off but look awful on me.<br />
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However, with a ball of cotton worsted yarn and my trusty crochet hook, I've come up with a great solution. My new hat has a definite Retro 1940s look. I really love the elegant fashions of that period and they look just right now, too. Therefore, I'll show you the hat first in a photo montage I just made of Ingrid Bergman wearing it and gazed at adoringly by Humphrey Bogart! (Photoshop is so much fun!)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidb1Ea-9CRVMm0AnHcYTOY_MKOAHfhjWE9T-La59_-tq70UCVy_CTy_7WbFjF1JyJ0su8TuziJU-4biZ9KcPEeB8IDfUfH0ZRLphP4pcH0ZOY79HCCL4nEhQqn1FhdTjTFCfHi/s1600/Ingrid+%2526+Bogy+PhotoMontage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidb1Ea-9CRVMm0AnHcYTOY_MKOAHfhjWE9T-La59_-tq70UCVy_CTy_7WbFjF1JyJ0su8TuziJU-4biZ9KcPEeB8IDfUfH0ZRLphP4pcH0ZOY79HCCL4nEhQqn1FhdTjTFCfHi/s400/Ingrid+%2526+Bogy+PhotoMontage.png" /></a></div><br />
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Of course I can't promise you that you'll look like Ingrid when you wear this hat, but I can promise that if you have just the basic crochet skills, you'll be able to make it quickly, easily and inexpensively. In fact, the hat will cost less than two dollars to make in readily available Sugar and Cream, or Peaches and Creme yarn. The pattern includes suggestions for ways to alter it's design too, so you could easily make a half dozen of these and they'd all look different. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI4Nxp0a8FKmNmIL0R7KYW5dKxi-htqn4s_qibCXPHM9OX2OGQ6TaHNHiL6b_YhJE9GSwlLHvGwbARY29BqKNuA_L1Q5jnE-BupG5DEiqPtTXbnnO5OLy-7JOKWz23BX0GRxx5/s1600/SunHat8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI4Nxp0a8FKmNmIL0R7KYW5dKxi-htqn4s_qibCXPHM9OX2OGQ6TaHNHiL6b_YhJE9GSwlLHvGwbARY29BqKNuA_L1Q5jnE-BupG5DEiqPtTXbnnO5OLy-7JOKWz23BX0GRxx5/s400/SunHat8.png" /></a></div><br />
I love the coolness of this hat in pristine white. My design criteria were: coolness, hair-proof style, sun protection, and portability. I used openwork lace for the crown of the hat. All those little holes give it an air conditioned feel. They also minimize the tightness on the head that makes you end up with hat hair! I hate to go indoors, perhaps to a restaurant, and take off my hat only to find that my hair is ruined, don't you?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtV4Maq9VI1yU7FK4dkgTSaUxres5LfnoTXIaRWIefLFT_6afa0cI6rZyWTovIzFJ4I9LGTI4CkXG507eSYEGuRWrwp3rlaoPyELlozCDOD_rH3KLO-T27xx0N3R7xkuE8ZeCp/s1600/SunHat6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtV4Maq9VI1yU7FK4dkgTSaUxres5LfnoTXIaRWIefLFT_6afa0cI6rZyWTovIzFJ4I9LGTI4CkXG507eSYEGuRWrwp3rlaoPyELlozCDOD_rH3KLO-T27xx0N3R7xkuE8ZeCp/s400/SunHat6.png" /></a></div><br />
My second criteria of sun protection is built into this hat through a very tightly crocheted brim. The tightness of the stitches also keeps the brim from flopping. If you happen to be wearing this in a very windy place, the optional head band can be adjusted to a tight fit that will keep your hat from blowing off.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9D1cXK5VsvUgpTGDwYUL7U7CEll37cqry4p_PsIh2nXwkgRZlnB5E0PcPHQxqO102FayApnRh-4mQwAmxErfQOjALRc-BXk3FarmFOy0XFtcEsdNumAzpkPtBwPDuXLJ1iyrt/s1600/SunHat11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9D1cXK5VsvUgpTGDwYUL7U7CEll37cqry4p_PsIh2nXwkgRZlnB5E0PcPHQxqO102FayApnRh-4mQwAmxErfQOjALRc-BXk3FarmFOy0XFtcEsdNumAzpkPtBwPDuXLJ1iyrt/s400/SunHat11.png" /></a></div><br />
Finally, I like a hat that I can roll or fold up so it fits in a handbag or pocket and this hat certainly will do that. Because of the firmness of the stitching, the hat isn't altered by this and it looks just as good as new when you put it back on. I'll bet Ingrid really would have liked to have this!<br />
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You can find the pattern at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/100910665/crochet-pattern-coolheaded-sun-hat">Etsy</a> and at <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/patterns/search?fit=&sortBy=&category=All&name=KnittingGuru">Craftsy</a><br />
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If you decide to make this hat, I'd love to see pictures of your finished projects!<br />
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*** I'm giving away one copy of this pattern to someone (at random) who post a comment about the hat here. A reward will go to someone who takes just a minute to comment! ***<br />
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<br />KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-3656237097947390492012-05-29T13:20:00.000-07:002012-05-29T13:24:11.794-07:00Starfish DIYThis is an update on my crocheted starfish. I had a lot of requests so I put together a pattern that includes the starfish brooch, earrings and ring.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-zt7qjGYt7v2oWqw3TqN6giAudj_whDShOjCgzaS9hR93XLTVdEcvtu_IGUHlIxMo0y7XfdmTftq2sYD9XsIQ9jHrs-pkYS8L2EyfNIF2gUatTCLxYdFpf4NJx5xjXGzd25B_/s1600/Starfish_Pattern_Ad.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-zt7qjGYt7v2oWqw3TqN6giAudj_whDShOjCgzaS9hR93XLTVdEcvtu_IGUHlIxMo0y7XfdmTftq2sYD9XsIQ9jHrs-pkYS8L2EyfNIF2gUatTCLxYdFpf4NJx5xjXGzd25B_/s400/Starfish_Pattern_Ad.png" /></a></div><br />
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You can find it at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/100051890/crochet-jewelry-pattern-starfish-ring">Etsy</a> and also at <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/patterns/search?fit=&sortBy=&category=All&name=KnittingGuru">Craftsy</a> <br />
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The pattern shows all three starfish designs in turquoise, but I'm now working on some coral/apricot/tangerine starfish and really they look good in so many colors.<br />
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Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. I always love to speak knitting and crochet, even though my patterns are always written in simple English.KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-28782858282552246492012-05-07T13:24:00.001-07:002012-05-08T09:11:51.321-07:00Starfish Are a Preview of Summer Beaches<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoJcDy5nVMNCTGkz3imrZo0mu4upu32WXPb4bppL1pQYC8lJTXNbAXe-FySNOSZdVmdkxhmrs77Z7a9MFbz7dgffW963HE1ZLLjtPsVKdw10Fxd8oZqQ0MwdNaqB4udsXXqIQY/s1600/StarfishBroochSolo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoJcDy5nVMNCTGkz3imrZo0mu4upu32WXPb4bppL1pQYC8lJTXNbAXe-FySNOSZdVmdkxhmrs77Z7a9MFbz7dgffW963HE1ZLLjtPsVKdw10Fxd8oZqQ0MwdNaqB4udsXXqIQY/s200/StarfishBroochSolo.png" /></a></div><br />
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My Turquoise Starfish Brooch <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRzu9KtP48SbY8VAgfzXNGgsTIray_YgwcCIY014gJnmu3CgtYPBbhs2TrcShJ8_OhChXBAM4-zAS2PkgNUcnyvgeZ_MUydBpIeqCMAVDjcgEuxBD70qzQKN2NHiDEA5kQAKTt/s1600/StarfishRing4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRzu9KtP48SbY8VAgfzXNGgsTIray_YgwcCIY014gJnmu3CgtYPBbhs2TrcShJ8_OhChXBAM4-zAS2PkgNUcnyvgeZ_MUydBpIeqCMAVDjcgEuxBD70qzQKN2NHiDEA5kQAKTt/s200/StarfishRing4.png" /></a></div><br />
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and Ring are a call to the sea. <br />
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I've loved poetry from my earliest years, most likely because of the music of its rhythms. I definitely remember learning this poem by heart when I was still quite young:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh67A2eRAN2CHEONY6F2oGSR8UE870aJnZUfxhCQ54oCDoIXML-ZLK7zfwRVG0lxhSimndy_eT6A_0U-aJKFbLBTMR6B1em9DPsQyJGj0GNcsF7b57IxI6orIqYe3WohqMacbBU/s1600/SeaFever.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh67A2eRAN2CHEONY6F2oGSR8UE870aJnZUfxhCQ54oCDoIXML-ZLK7zfwRVG0lxhSimndy_eT6A_0U-aJKFbLBTMR6B1em9DPsQyJGj0GNcsF7b57IxI6orIqYe3WohqMacbBU/s320/SeaFever.jpg" /></a></div><br />
This is meter right out of Homer and moves the spirit for sure!<br />
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Starfish combine both the sea and the stars and also are wonderful design elements. A year or so ago I made a Turquoise Starfish Ring --<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcR11_ktE0gF38qAK33MWRbFTnkuSHjxe49kWs9gNIJGTHB3fpoFY0ZugJ0oRfdcTmLwdxTQ8Ht-Y8OXJ6MBx1aVZ2S6XWlUIjk-H5WCuvN6t7GFRPeO3OZ7r5gVDCE2lWCC2j/s1600/StarfishRing7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcR11_ktE0gF38qAK33MWRbFTnkuSHjxe49kWs9gNIJGTHB3fpoFY0ZugJ0oRfdcTmLwdxTQ8Ht-Y8OXJ6MBx1aVZ2S6XWlUIjk-H5WCuvN6t7GFRPeO3OZ7r5gVDCE2lWCC2j/s320/StarfishRing7.png" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkG9N8RI5SjUsfSMuWjRtrYEbm7vZu_WvCCRML62H19Us0ochPcu09V1b6v-wgsuKT16nQN87v2egvwNbRMVlVL4IcLpGJQohQX8V8iebkj1MQ2qpql2lP8YwZri_Z5kSVIrU/s1600/StarfishRing2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkG9N8RI5SjUsfSMuWjRtrYEbm7vZu_WvCCRML62H19Us0ochPcu09V1b6v-wgsuKT16nQN87v2egvwNbRMVlVL4IcLpGJQohQX8V8iebkj1MQ2qpql2lP8YwZri_Z5kSVIrU/s320/StarfishRing2.png" /></a></div><br />
I used Perle cotton #5 to make it and it's been in quite a few Etsy treasuries. Then a few months ago, a customer asked me to make a starfish brooch -- <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkdRKfGqiGG94XXIXKKybLAPHyqYoRS-Leinjx-Wo3LS8hOlQtCH8rKpD9cUElGjRkMefxCgRuk5h1I59I4G0V3sNiI0yT-Q8BdyJEAZZRuWgOp0_MaDsHyxuxSwbMMKBTcZAh/s1600/StarfishCrochetBrooch.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkdRKfGqiGG94XXIXKKybLAPHyqYoRS-Leinjx-Wo3LS8hOlQtCH8rKpD9cUElGjRkMefxCgRuk5h1I59I4G0V3sNiI0yT-Q8BdyJEAZZRuWgOp0_MaDsHyxuxSwbMMKBTcZAh/s320/StarfishCrochetBrooch.png" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-TQhlmlvn5qk6Ekg5MlDCE3cUR63b5QmK3WlonbVtBbhIDRFkKM-RMFnxzN2BDfG7l1czV_J6jxJZQdj5Z0zRH1peLawL4A_kZ-5N8gxyDnOF5QdnY4_VrQEjWzGuNo3Vd64b/s1600/StarfishonShell.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-TQhlmlvn5qk6Ekg5MlDCE3cUR63b5QmK3WlonbVtBbhIDRFkKM-RMFnxzN2BDfG7l1czV_J6jxJZQdj5Z0zRH1peLawL4A_kZ-5N8gxyDnOF5QdnY4_VrQEjWzGuNo3Vd64b/s320/StarfishonShell.png" /></a></div><br />
Can you see the starfish impression on the shell? The brooch is made with a DK weight mercerized cotton.<br />
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On my worktable right now is a starfish earring I've designed. This is made with variegated embroidery floss and the tiniest hook I could get to work with that easily separated thread. I'll mount these on silver plated ear wires.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmb7nI6evDIbwnJH9uxe2xu2Na79wF7PABHGzzUloZYJTJl3ZA8ksDdlyHyfeX_mO4r3iOttu8FACh0CW5rbVwHBR3PvCdY9a9z9m39_l98xVHRRhFl9JJgnVfSWsyDbdOtQcd/s1600/StarfishEarrings.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="450" width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmb7nI6evDIbwnJH9uxe2xu2Na79wF7PABHGzzUloZYJTJl3ZA8ksDdlyHyfeX_mO4r3iOttu8FACh0CW5rbVwHBR3PvCdY9a9z9m39_l98xVHRRhFl9JJgnVfSWsyDbdOtQcd/s320/StarfishEarrings.png" /></a></div><br />
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You can find the ring in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/38647722/starfish-ring-crocheted-cotton-turquoise">Etsy shop</a> and the brooch <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/95265855/turquoise-starfish-crocheted-pin"> here.</a> finished them. I'm also making a PDF crochet pattern for these enticing creatures that will be coming soon. I wish I could be on the beach right now smelling the salty air and hearing the waves while I do my design work.KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-25927402066073760012012-04-30T12:49:00.000-07:002012-04-30T13:13:55.566-07:00Lily of the Valley Necklace & Flowers - Harbingers of SpringWhen my Lily of the Valley first bloomed I made this necklace to celebrate the arrival of High Spring.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnRWbnmqbHHTtJtR8gDFW78crj9x_OqUgm15am9h8XAkTpErkpkPmvLIem840q4h54uzifLW2PPxa0Xj5yuauNC3VPJKtJlI1o9gx5dbpyAgfXkOMQhdkEyHZWU-_9GWYPjqs9/s1600/LilyValleyNecklace.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnRWbnmqbHHTtJtR8gDFW78crj9x_OqUgm15am9h8XAkTpErkpkPmvLIem840q4h54uzifLW2PPxa0Xj5yuauNC3VPJKtJlI1o9gx5dbpyAgfXkOMQhdkEyHZWU-_9GWYPjqs9/s400/LilyValleyNecklace.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Here's the necklace on a mannequin to give you an idea of the dimensions.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0X0JItaqLAi1qecjPAogLb_bd4jvmgcyQ7eVgxgBWjg7BhP1DuyGdGRU99UdqJc4ehF-HQcZm2xxSwnc_nDgOkrP7iTXtOKEyc_c_zcGhHUrbyQOZ-ttGi67ECfZUJbFZWINE/s1600/LillyoftheValleyNecklaceonModel.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0X0JItaqLAi1qecjPAogLb_bd4jvmgcyQ7eVgxgBWjg7BhP1DuyGdGRU99UdqJc4ehF-HQcZm2xxSwnc_nDgOkrP7iTXtOKEyc_c_zcGhHUrbyQOZ-ttGi67ECfZUJbFZWINE/s400/LillyoftheValleyNecklaceonModel.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
The necklace is large and makes a big visual statement, but because I crocheted it with fine threads, it's actually very lightweight. I'm fond of using French embroidery floss for my fiber art jewelry because it has a beautiful sheen and comes in an almost limitless number of colors.<br />
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Today I was delighted to see that the flowers are still blooming. This is unusual for Lily of the Valley which generally only lasts a short time in the garden. I'm assuming that the cold weather has lengthened their lifespan.<br />
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This picture shows them just after a rainstorm last week. I like the sparkly water on the sturdy leaves of these very delicate looking flowers.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYCu2Hbe6r0sWVjE3glMQncC3v1pO6pBndq9bVKNEVDtSmzGUz_gVrKtv09Xdybgg0csdWrl3F9oMtj6prnFEGh0A0LtLzoRIlKPFHAFoQtF_cQu1Z9Dfuyw4eYSLuHzI79P5w/s1600/LilyOfTheValley2B.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYCu2Hbe6r0sWVjE3glMQncC3v1pO6pBndq9bVKNEVDtSmzGUz_gVrKtv09Xdybgg0csdWrl3F9oMtj6prnFEGh0A0LtLzoRIlKPFHAFoQtF_cQu1Z9Dfuyw4eYSLuHzI79P5w/s400/LilyOfTheValley2B.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
These are the flowers I picked this morning. Not only do they look like little ivory bells, but they also smell so intensely sweet that the whole room is deliciously scented.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMMlGlXr485jg0mobS3vt8WnY00UMZTec0IQGc87tIDlOsldvTMU0k-f2DlsCDkoreJUqHh5KkOE8zsDm9VNbToprOdugLDGNdDXQIClPFqkiVYQHoBv5SUPaViOTYCY53zQHi/s1600/LilyoftheValleyinVase.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMMlGlXr485jg0mobS3vt8WnY00UMZTec0IQGc87tIDlOsldvTMU0k-f2DlsCDkoreJUqHh5KkOE8zsDm9VNbToprOdugLDGNdDXQIClPFqkiVYQHoBv5SUPaViOTYCY53zQHi/s400/LilyoftheValleyinVase.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I'll leave you today with a close-up of the necklace showing my interpretation in crocheted thread of these lovely flowers.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoRmRoPCN64eT-MzkZXYsbpTt69a4XB2SbTrGdP99caY5vq1ivAGcPiehJ_2JNDSkuKt3uXGikqeUtgjE1SPLQ-NpG708NkoM1M-7xkj3IpF1cpB_Rg5D0sX17-zHBHrYRYK71/s1600/LilyOfTheValleyNecklaceCloseUp2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoRmRoPCN64eT-MzkZXYsbpTt69a4XB2SbTrGdP99caY5vq1ivAGcPiehJ_2JNDSkuKt3uXGikqeUtgjE1SPLQ-NpG708NkoM1M-7xkj3IpF1cpB_Rg5D0sX17-zHBHrYRYK71/s400/LilyOfTheValleyNecklaceCloseUp2.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
To make this necklace I crocheted a band in a braided stitch with a vintage button fastener. Then I applied the flowers and stems to a leaf I crocheted, and sculpted the leaf around the flowers. Finally, I sewed the leaf and flowers to the necklace band. This is a very labor intensive, but also very satisfying process. My necklaces are strictly one-of-a-kind. You can find out more about this one by clicking on my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/98327487/crocheted-necklace-lily-of-the-valley">Etsy shop</a>.KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25399873.post-49851689495222304882012-04-27T12:35:00.000-07:002012-04-30T13:15:15.519-07:00Pink Tulips Inspire a New Cuff<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">As promised, I have my Pink Tulip Baroque Crocheted Cuff Bracelet to show now.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOHIHZwynxg65wMudRd6N0SBM-JGjESdqAymkFCKr5W_caMCghCDlODclFjVyD6bN_FvYhuhwF8gJIQixSmZBxAu6Z218sRrmvyrwayLw_ZYH4asUMDkSGOhxJNu-Ym6jYFgvp/s1600/BaroquePink&GreenCuff.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOHIHZwynxg65wMudRd6N0SBM-JGjESdqAymkFCKr5W_caMCghCDlODclFjVyD6bN_FvYhuhwF8gJIQixSmZBxAu6Z218sRrmvyrwayLw_ZYH4asUMDkSGOhxJNu-Ym6jYFgvp/s400/BaroquePink&GreenCuff.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRkO8-3sLe9eTdKJuN-hoJV4BbbatRhX9zjFZG131gLmqqclVlRZde0PztPt4wer1nuy0BysGwjU_jYqvL3_fXqGrcbDEvfbYZaGsqW_4-QNE3nIw8ah_sq1fVY-1yFNAHZKkM/s1600/PinkYellow&GreenTulips.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRkO8-3sLe9eTdKJuN-hoJV4BbbatRhX9zjFZG131gLmqqclVlRZde0PztPt4wer1nuy0BysGwjU_jYqvL3_fXqGrcbDEvfbYZaGsqW_4-QNE3nIw8ah_sq1fVY-1yFNAHZKkM/s400/PinkYellow&GreenTulips.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
This is how the tulips looked in the garden last week. When I cut some and put them in a vase, they opened out to over 7 inches in diameter. That gave me a chance to analyze the coloration more which led to the cuff itself. </div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
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The crochet of these cuffs is so detailed that I didn't want to have any visible closure. Instead I used a tiny snap to securely hold the bracelet together. Here's what the fastener side of the cuff looks like. This smooth closure is very comfortable to wear and easy to fasten too.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiszY8a41NeD0lfB2WOID8osJD5i6iCBcHqYiD5O1RqaaHA1FV_xp-hz8bNMNVCRdWDcmuC7CTCsS11Y3IARuFwcHwl2NHsqyMUv9AXKitTsY_ex7jaVJstPRc3wpQOEbTWujR0/s1600/Pink&GreenCuff.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiszY8a41NeD0lfB2WOID8osJD5i6iCBcHqYiD5O1RqaaHA1FV_xp-hz8bNMNVCRdWDcmuC7CTCsS11Y3IARuFwcHwl2NHsqyMUv9AXKitTsY_ex7jaVJstPRc3wpQOEbTWujR0/s400/Pink&GreenCuff.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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I've been experimenting with Photoshop to join the cuffs and their floral inspiration. The next photo is an example of my playing around with Photoshop.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb8GMO0UvQ1HLB-LpcSQwaBfBEYGBkLgnorJ1DI5SX97VAt1-m5PBQy8Guwyy2tfR3pwyyW8fatZJM5S2kODc8A26n1TFFlHJPunUIGDp06z2nWmhsEKvFUwskFFmcWwE81QJI/s1600/CuffW-Tulip.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb8GMO0UvQ1HLB-LpcSQwaBfBEYGBkLgnorJ1DI5SX97VAt1-m5PBQy8Guwyy2tfR3pwyyW8fatZJM5S2kODc8A26n1TFFlHJPunUIGDp06z2nWmhsEKvFUwskFFmcWwE81QJI/s400/CuffW-Tulip.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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Many of my friends on Facebook have expressed an interest in my making a pattern/tutorial for these cuffs.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY2Zxed23HrRcIL3VQSFyTtNQPYcvD-hACQh31dy60oHTyt5DFAbswcbSSvXF-vnuJ3VbYPRKQIhY0gRnrS4u9XFWt6DiFzQNzjELhBGfGWt1sU41IRsHEPv-qlXT5vo0FLLKH/s1600/Pink&GreenCrochetCuff.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY2Zxed23HrRcIL3VQSFyTtNQPYcvD-hACQh31dy60oHTyt5DFAbswcbSSvXF-vnuJ3VbYPRKQIhY0gRnrS4u9XFWt6DiFzQNzjELhBGfGWt1sU41IRsHEPv-qlXT5vo0FLLKH/s400/Pink&GreenCrochetCuff.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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In the meantime, and for those who don't crochet themselves, the cuff is available in my Etsy shop <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/98217861/crocheted-cuff-bracelet-pink-green">here</a>.</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I'd be happy to hear about other color combinations that inspire you that you'd like to see reflected in these cuffs!</span>KnittingGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10666434770743707529noreply@blogger.com3