Valis' Knitting Moment

2011-10-26T13:23:00.001-05:00

Hi everyone!
Yep, it has been a while but now I have final news to share with you.
As of today, Valis' Crochet and Valis' Knitting Moment Blogs will
now be PJ Crafts in Austin. My avatar, Valis now ceases to exist.

I am now PJ Crafts in Austin in and I am PJ.
This was a hard decision due to making a go at a business and under my
own company name.
I will add the connection to the new blog pjcraftsinaustin@blogspot.com
as reference to former free patterns and also, considering the change at
Ravelry and Knitpicks.

The new blog features not only my new patterns, but other avenues of my
designs in upcycling, felting, and even sculpting.

My website in under construction and will be out soon. Yep, that takes time.

In the meantime, thanks you all for your support and encouragement in the last
few years.
Formerly,
Valis, now PJ

For any inquiries or questions, please contact me at pjcraftsinaustin@gmail.com.

New Pattern for Alien Chick

2011-09-21T21:07:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone!
Yep, I'm back. Been gone for medical reasons and doing better. Also, lost 41 lbs and feeling way better!
So, what's up? Well, there is a new pattern now titled as Alien Chick.
Pattern will up on Friday.

Here's a sneak peak of what she looks like,,,,,,

Hair inserts.Part 4.

2011-04-05T13:51:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the hair tutorial, Part 4.
This time we will just do photos with simple notes.
Take your time and please send those photos to share on our Little Pigtail Girl CAL group on Ravelry.

Using Lionbrand Homespun for hair. Wrap around book or magazine for as much of the hair you want on the doll.

Cut one side for this yarn , that is her long length for the pigtails. You decide your length if no pigtails;)

I add a thick contrast yarn and map out the hair line around the head.

I use at least 2 strands of yarn at a time which covers and gives a great hair line with a hook.

I pull through the loop slowly, so as not to fray the yarn. Take your time and enjoy this part.

The hair is now pulled throught the loop and you can see the length take shape.

I usually start with the back then work around to the front and finally, around to the back. With this thickness, you may not have to fill the whole head as I did here. With regular yarn, I use 3 strands and work around. We'll review later.

Her majesty sweetly waiting for her hair to be completed.

She has stated that she wants to look like the poster girl but without bangs. I tied her hair up with yarn like a ponytail.

I separated the hair and made sure there are no gaps around the hair line and tied with yarn and added ribbon. She gets a trim at this time or shape the bangs here. You may embellish with ribbon or gems as you go at this point.

This is how she looks and is very happy as you can see. She will be going on her trip to San Antonio, Tx soon with her new family. What a lucky girl!

Thanks for sharing this CAL with us. We will be making more dolls with different types of hair , outfits and giveaways. Send us your photos on Ravelry. Stay tuned.

Part 3 Adding the the body and arms.

2011-04-03T18:43:00.001-05:00

Welcome back to the Little Pigtail CAL.
After adding the shoes and build up to the connection of the legs, the picture tutorials will help in showing the
body process.

Photo A. 5 rows of 24 sts make the trunk.

The first picture shows how the 2 legs are completed and connected.

1. There is a total of 24 stitches per row.
2. From the Part 2 24 sts were already created when the 2 legs were connected.
3. Go ahead and work a total of 5 rows each having 24 sts. See photo A.

Photo B. Dec to 18 inc on this row.

The second picture show that the 5 rows are completed.

Now to begin decreasing up to the chest.

1. After the 5 rows done, *1sc in the next st and dec in the next st* repeat 5 times around.. [18]
Refer to Photo B.

The next row will be the building of the chest.

For the next 3 rows, sc in the 18 scs.
Refer to Photo C.

Photo C. Adding the next 3 rows of 18sts.

Now, this is something I do in order to work the rest of this area a little easier.

From the yellow marker to the tan marker
1 sc to the next 4 sc and that becomes the beginning stitch.
Refer to Photo D.

Photo D. Making a new beginning st.

Photo E. Making the hand.

Let's stop with the body for a bit and work on the hands and arms.
1. Ch 2.

2. Add 4 sc in the 2nd ch. [4]

3. *2 sc (inc) in the next 1 sc* and repeat in the next 3 sc. [8]

4.Sc in the next 3 sc and * 1 triple crochet (tc) in the 4th sc (to make a thumb) and 1sc in the last 4 scs. [8]
* this optional if you feel like just keeping the tc out.

Photo F. View of the making of the hands in the round.

5. Dec in the first st and 1 sc in the next 4 st and dec in the last 2 st. [6]

6. 1 sc in the next 6 st for 5 rows [6]

7. Refer to Photo F and G.

8. This is one way to make the hand and arms.

9. For those who have arthriris and love to crochet in less pain, I will cover another simpler way to make them.

Photo G. Looking at how the hand and arms look like to the body.

Photo H. Adding the dress for the chest.

Let's finish the chest by adding our colored yarn for the top. (The colored yarn will be added to the arms later by the 2nd technique below.)

1. Starting with your different colored yarn for the dress, 1 sc in the next 18 st. [18]

2. Work 4 more rows, [18]

3. I am using a DK yarn and it looks way smaller but use what you have and add your total of 5 rows. I like the petite charm.

Photo I. Adding the 3 rows of dress yarn.

Photo J. Making the hand back and forth vs. in the round.

This is the arm done differently.
1. Ch 5 and turn.
2. 1 sc in the next 4 ch. Ch1 and turn. [4].
3. *2 sc (inc) in the next sc* and repeat in the next 3 sc.Ch1 and turn. [8]
4. 1 sc in the next 3 st, tc in the 4th st, and 1 sc the last 4 sc. Ch 1 and turn. [8]
5. Dec in the 1st sc, 1 sc in the next 4 sts, dec in the last 2 sc. Ch1 and turn. [6]
6. 1 sc in the next 6 st for 5 rows [6]
7. Adding the new colored dress yarn,
1 sc in the next 6 sts for a total of 3 rows.
8. Refer to Photo J. Do the same for in the round arm and hand.

Photo K. 2 different arms. On the doll was worked in the round. The unattached done open and sewn to the side.

Photo L. Arms added to the body.

Now the arms are attached to the body. Yippee.
Keep going.....Because now you need to add the head to the body.
Refer to Photos L and M.

Photo M. Head attached to the body. Isn't she cute?

Photo N. Picking up 18 sts around the chest to add the skirt.

Once the doll is in one form, we need to add the dress.
Now you may make the dress separate and attach or you may just pick up stitches from the chest and
circle around and keep adding all away until you get to size of the skirt size you want. I have done it both ways.
First, let's add it as the photos were shot.
1. I picked up 18 stitsches around.
2. 2 sc in ech of the 18 sts [36]
3. 1 double crochet in the next 36 sc around.
4. Try to continue #3. for 4-5 rows.
5. My last row was just a simple decorative border of shells every other st. You may use your own.

Photo O. Our adorable doll with her skirt finally added.

All she needs is her wavy curly hair.

Please enjoy this session. You may embellish as much as you like. This is your project. Looking forward to seeing your work. Happy Crocheting! Valis

Next Step

2011-03-30T21:30:00.000-05:00

Ready for the next Round? Here it is...

What the face and ears should look like.

Plan:

To add a smile to the face.
To make the ears and sew on symmetrically.
To work from the bottom up to connect the 2 legs.

Part 2 A: The face and add ears.

Face: Embroider the mouth with a simple stitich across.

Smile made.

Ears: Make 2 and use skin tone yarn.

1. Ch 2. 6 sc in the 2nd ch. Sl st to beginning st and bind off. [6]
Pin the 2 ears to each side of the head.
Sew the ears on.

Ears made and pinned to head to make sure they are symmetrical.

Ears sewn on.

Part 2 B: Shoes and legs.

Shoes: Make 2 in black yarn.

1. Ch 2. 6 sc in the 2nd ch. [6]
2. 2 sc in all 6 sc. (inc) [12]
3. 1 sc in the next st, 2 sc in the next sc*, repeat 5 more times. [18]
4. Place marker (pm),1 sc in the next 18 sc. [18]
5. 1 sc in the next 18 sc. [18]
6. 1 sc in the next sc, dec in the next sc*, repeat 5 more times. [12]
7. 1 sc in the next 12 sc. Sl st to beginning st and bind off. [12]

Shoe made.

Shoe made.

This completes shoes...now let's add the legs. Black yarn is cut enough to weave in later.

Beginning to change colors.

Adding the leg to the shoe.

Adding more to the leg and stuffing as you go

Legs:

Make 2 in flesh tone yarn.
Move the marker here for now.
The leg will be 12 sc around for 15 rows.

After the 1st leg is done, cut the tail to about 1 inch to weave in later.
15 rows completed.
Keeping the leg stuffed as you crochet up.

Start of the second leg.

After the 2nd leg is done, do not fasten off.

Hold the legs together.

1 sc in the next 12 sc around of one leg and then continue to crochet the 1 sc in the 2nd leg's

12 sc around. [24]

Once the 2nd leg is completed, start to connect the two legs.

Added a piece of black thread as a marker to show that 12 sc were done on the 1st leg.

Completed the 12 sc on the second leg.

Completed 24 sc around as the beginning of the lower trunk.

This holds the lower part of the torso and we will crochet up to the begiinning of the chest and add the colored yarn for the chest as the top of the dress.

Does this make sense?

I decided to incorporate the dress on the body when I first made them.

For those that are advanced or adventerous may continue all the way up and add a dress

later. I've done that , too.

Remember, this is your project. I just want to share my pattern and let you embellish as you

choose. That's part of the fun.

Little Pigtail Girl CAL

2011-03-28T14:14:00.004-05:00

Little Pigtail Girl CAL

I decided to to make this project a Crochet A Long with photos.
See at the end of this session at the bottom of

the updated photos that shows the process.

Part One: The Head
The hair will be covered later.

Supplies:
Simply Soft from Caron in Light Country Peach
1- 3.5 mm/E hook
1 piece of different colored string or marker
1 pr of 12mm or even 15mm solid black eyes
(or black embroidery thread and needle to sew on eyes if this
project is made for a child < 3 yrs of age.
100% Polyfill for stuffing

Gauge:
1- 6 oz./170 gm Caron Simply Soft will make almost 2 dolls.

Plan:

Using Bernat for beginners in case you need any references. Just click on Bernat.
Using single crochet (sc) with combinations of increasing sc (inc) and decreasing sc (dec)

Inc: 2 sc in one st. Inc made.

Dec: Insert hook in first st, yarn over (yo), draw up a loop, insert hook in the next yo, draw up a loop, yo, pull through 3 loops. Dec made.

Quick look as we increase using a marker especially for Steps 7-17.

Pattern:

Chain (ch) 2.

1. Single crochet (sc) 7 into 2nd chain stitch (st) from the hook .[7]

Project is worked in rounds, make sure to mark the beginning (or end) of each round so you don’t lose your spot.
Make sure your tension is tight enough so when you stuff it, no stuffing is sticking out.
You may use the magic loop (from Crochetme forum) if you want. I personally like the other way.

2. 2 sc in each 7st. . [14] (beginning to increase)
3. (Sc 1, sc 2 in next st)*, now repeat * 6 more times. [21]
4. (Sc 2, sc 2 in next st)*, now repeat * 6 more times. [28]
5. (Sc 3, sc 2 in next st)*, now repeat * 6 more times. [35]
6. (Sc 4, sc 2 in next st)*, now repeat * 6 more times. [42]
Stopping the increasing and now creating the main part of the face.
7-17. Sc 42 sts around for 10 rows. Use your marker or your piece of yarn to designate the first st.

Let's stop for a second...let's plan to place the eyes on this doll.

Now, we can mark with contrast yarn to place the eyes or place the
plastic eyes in the designated area without snapping the back part on (just in case you miss the position like I do sometimes and have to almost rip off...don't do that!)

See the dec st make 7 cool angles see your eye placements

But by experience, just placing a marker to kind of placing where the eyes may go and think about how far apart you want the eyes to be placed.

Is this this critical? Yeh, it is because with amigurumi, we are looking at cuteness. Personally, I go between 6-8 sts apart vs some

designers going closer or further apart. It's your choice.
Some designers favor to start filling the head at this point but I found that you get that fuzz caught on the hook.
My suggestion is to do some decreasing sc rounds and then start to fill as well as look at how the eye placement appears. (This goes for embroidery or even placing black felt pieces and embroidering around the eyes)

18. (Sc 4, decrease (dec) 1)*, repeat 6 more times. [35]
19. (Sc 3, dec 1)*, repeat 6 more times. [28]
20. (Sc 2, dec 1)*, repeat 6 more times. [21]
21. (Sc 1, dec 1)*, repeat 6 more times. [14]

Believe it or not but, you may start placing the eyes between Step 20 or 21.

Better shaping and better eye placement.

You can see the decreasing angles and can gauge where the eyes may stay and then fill.

You can feel the shape of the head and be more confident toward the final shaping.

22. dec 7 [7] and slip stitch (sl) into the last st and pull through the loop to complete the round.
23. Weave in ends. The torso will have a weaving tail to attach to the head.

Closer look at eye placement.

For now this completes the head. Next part will complete the ears and add a smile with embroidery thread. We will start on the feet and legs, too. Until then, happy crocheting! Valis

Update for this blog.Photo review of the Head.

Completed the inc and dec rounds with eye placement.

Eyes needs more adjustment.

Happy with the adjustment and snapped eyes on, then start to fill head.

Completing the dec rounds-Almost done!

Last 6 stitches and ready to close and shape.

Closed and will weave extra yarn inside and shape the head better.

Reshaped head. Does this all make sense? I hope it does.

Little Pigtail Girl

2011-03-23T19:22:00.000-05:00

This is the little Pigtail Girl. After doing so many amigurumi projects, I believe this is the one I want to share with you. Now, at this time I have to complete some commissioned work and will be writing the pattern. Please be patient and it will be worth the wait. This is one of my proudest works and I can't wait to share with you. Until then, thanks for everyone's support. Valis

First day of Spring

2011-03-22T20:44:00.003-05:00

Cowgirl Rabbit Complete

Feeling better after a brief encounter with a virus. Able to complete this Cowgirl Rabbit for a friend's daughter for Easter. Coming soon will be her brother's cowboy rabbit. I recently made them a couple of Minions from the movie, Dispicable Me. This is a very popular movie and now I own the DVD.

New Designs

2011-03-14T19:43:00.000-05:00

El Chupacabra!

I thought making amigurumis was a fad for me, but I have had so many requests for different projects.This has been great. I feel useful for a change.

Embroidered eyes for a 2 yr old. Safety 1st!

I made a chupacabra for a doctor for a gift to his sister. It was a great challenge and absolutely a joy to make. Along with that order, I made a golden retirever and a kitty for 2 little girls.

I made an 11 inch Batgirl to follow the 16 inch Batman figure for a duo Birthday gift for a little girl and her uncle. My friend was nice to take a picture of the gift before she left for the party. I brushed the yarn for the hair and it came out silky and wavy. I did not want a yarn-ie type of hair. Had to make it a little unique.

I have been inspired with the Dispicable Me movie and had to buy it. So many people at work wanted the minions of various shapes. But I do love the response and chuckles after they receive their order.

Pretty soon, I will be completing Easter bunnies and other cute forest animals. Looking forward to sharing all with you. For those that ordered, thank you so much for your support.

With gratitude, Valis

New Items to share

2011-02-23T17:30:00.000-06:00

Since I have been enjoying amigurumi crochet, I have alot of requests to make unique gifts. Just recently completed Batman but in the photo, the cape is not completed. Making from no available patterns, I have to trust alot on photos and help from my comic book collecting spouse. Thank goodness.

The request was for a 16 inch character. I did this project based on three +/- 5 inch segments of the whole body. After that, it was just doing the project.
I have to make a small Batgirl to complete the commissioned work. All in all, this has been a labour of love.

Cookie's pig, panda, and kitten

Lila's Panda

Lion and Lime Sherbet Kittens

There is a great easy purchased pattern from Sarah K. Walker in Ravelry . Look up the title, Wilbur, Bejing or Purrr . Here is the first Panda I made for a friend. I showed it to my mom and she had to have one and pig, too. I told her about the Valentine Sherbet Kitten Pattern and I made her a light golden tinsel kitty. At work a really good friend asked for a Lion type kitten and made a Lime Sherbet Kitten for a nite nurse who needed cheering up. She works hard and needed a smile on her face. It worked!
Enjoy the latest pics and will write soon! Valis

Happy Valentine's Day To You...

2011-02-14T12:45:00.000-06:00

This is what I love to receive for Valentine's Day every year....my sweet husband seems to find them and I go crazy adding to my collection.

This is my Diego inspired doll that my friends love to give to their sons. The monkey is another one of my favorite softies to make for my friends. Gave one with magnet hands so as to hold his banana. This one is a popular item.I made so many. Soon I will make a pattern.

Made this monkey this weekend for a friend's nephew.

Bought this crochet pattern which is fast and easy.

This unique 3 mitten project was made for a new couple and it is called Smittens.

I thought the rush for for Christmas was extremely busy, but Valentine's Day beats it hands down for me.

This was a special order for a dear friend.

Added glue to safety eyes for added security.

Made several Sherbet Kittens found in Ravelry for free. Everyone loves them.

This was given to a patient to lift his spirits.

One girl wanted hers as a lion...cute, huh?

Made these for my bosses for VD.

Another nurse made a request to make a look-alike for her husband in his gii along with the black belt and specified details.

HK golf club cover for a little girl.

.
One Doctor was given a crocheted kitten for his daughter's birthday and I was commissioned to make a golf club cover with Hello Kitty theme. That was a great project to make-it was a knit-crochet combination.

Here are the accumulated photos that I would like to share with you. Valis

Returning from a hiatus....

2011-01-03T09:21:00.000-06:00

Sorry for being gone so long but I definitely needed a time out. However, several months ago when I visited Houston, My friend, Jackie introduced me to amigurumi. OMG! I have not stopped and still going strong. i became very busy since then. There are so many sites for free patterns and I have been working on my own patterns. Patterns to come soon. In the meantime, here are some pics.

2010-10-15T18:51:00.000-05:00

Enjoying the Country

Just returned back from the country. Worked on undoing the sweaters and washing them.

Cut up 5 pairs of jeans (on the chair) for either a rag rug or a woven rug-not sure, yet.

Found a quilt holder to wind the yarn into hanks.

Hung the yarn after washing.

Finished a baby rug from this huge ball of leftover yarn before I left.

Also, started on another baby round infant rug.
Had so much fun.

New Item to share

2010-10-07T23:05:00.001-05:00

I know it has been a while but the there has been a whirlwind of great things happening to me.
Recently went to Sustainable Fibers in Elgin, Texas and I must say they are a great group of fine artisans.
If you go further to Paige, Texas, you can also stop at Yarnorama and see all the new beautiful yarn that Susan has in store. The Yarn Crawl has started and the LYS from Austin to San Antonio have alot of great goodies for those who participate.
I have been reading many books on dyeing yarn, spinning, a little on weaving, and lately on rag rugs. Too cool. Been looking at the great economical thrift stores for recycling sweaters. Can't get enough.
The most important point I want to share is a motif taken from my mother's quilt that she gave me after I lost
all those quilts from a past hurricane. It's going to be her birthday soon and I wanted to give her something I made from the heart and to say thanks for her unconditional support. Let me just say that I went through many prototypes and finally came up with this one. I would love to share this pattern with you.

The white motif is from Baby sport on Size 6 needles.

Both sizes to see the outcome.


This motif is from worsted wool on Size 8 needles. Cookie's Bow Ties

This is the pattern for the motif.
I will be making panels and merge together each panel.
In the swatch, I cast on 23 and slip stitched the first stitch and knit the 23 stitch for a smoother edge to put together for the panels. You may use his as a discloth, or a blanket, your call. Just be creative!

Cast On 21

Row 1 (RS): k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k7

Row 2 (WS): p8, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1

Row 3 (RS): k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k9

Row 4 (WS): p10, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1

Row 5 (RS): k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k11

Row 6 (WS): p10, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1

Row 7 (RS): k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p3, k9

Row 8 (WS): k1, p7, k5, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1

Row 9 (RS): k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p7, k5, p1, k1

Row 10 (WS): k1, p1, k1, p3, k9, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1

Row 11 (RS): k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p11, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1

Row 12 (WS): k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k9, p3, k1, p1, k1

Row 13 (RS): k1, p1, k5, p7, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1

Row 14 (WS): k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k5, p7, k1

Row 15 (RS): k9, p3, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1

Row 16 (WS): k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p10

Row 17 (RS): k11, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1

Row 18 (WS): k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p10

Row 19 (RS): k9, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1

Row 20 (WS): k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p8

Row 21 (RS): k7, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1,k1

Bind off. Block. Enjoy. Valis

New photos from Valis' Crochet Moment

2010-08-31T20:24:00.000-05:00

Crochet View a long completed shawl as laid out.

Another layout view.

Front view of Shawl as placed on with its own self button closure.

Check out the photos from Valis' Crochet Moment This is the completed Valis' CVAL Shawl group. You're invited to join on Ravelry.

The revised pattern is corrected to the first post and on here, too. Will correct the videos,soon.

Back view of shawl.

On another note....

After making several shawls, such as the smokey gray tinsel, I started to see that there was a need to increase in the middle of the shawl. Again, the pattern is corrected.

I love the way this shawl has its own neck shaping and edging.

The next item in this post is the new teal circular shawl that will be out soon. This was made organically and now I have to figure write out the pattern. Almost done. So that's all for now and thanks for your patience!Valis

New Addition

2010-08-16T18:59:00.001-05:00

My Photo for the crochet blog

Hey everyone!

Been sick for a while and doing better after a rest and recovery.
While resting, I decided to create a new blog for crochet.
It is Valis' Crochet Moment. To start, I added the CAL as the first post.
I am working on this teal colored circular shawl/blanket to be posted soon.
Thanks for your patience. Valis

Valis Crochet View- A-Long Part C

2010-07-28T23:52:00.001-05:00

Welcome to our Crochet View-a-Long!

Finally completed the Revision videos for Part A and B. Part C is now on board.

This was a short CAL but the fun is to see everyone's work and progress.

Everyone has been so supportive and helpful. Thanks so much.

This is such a great community and I feel privileged to be part of it, too.

I was impressed with everyone's background in this craft. Some of you could teach me a tip or two.

Lots of great talent out there.

My contribution to the CVAL

Well, here is my updated project with the CVAL and I really love this yarn. KP's Shadow-Golden Glow Lace Weight.

I also have another yarn to make another shawl (I'm on a roll) From Hobby Lobby, I love this yarn!-Stripes and the name is Seaspray stripe. This is the softest yarn as an acrylic and washable and dryable.

This pattern works pretty fast and fun!

Here are the pics.

I Love this Yarn Stripes-Seaspray

For now, keep on crocheting! Valis

Crochet View A Long Continued

2010-07-27T11:42:00.009-05:00

Our project in the video

Ok, let's get started. In order to see the video and its contents, I thought it was better to place the instructions here. We don't need eye strain.

The Plan

If you are a beginner or need a refresher, please take the time to review the following: (Referencing Lionbrand Tutorial)
Abbreviations:

Part A: The Beginning

Make a chain (ch)
Make a single crochet (sc)
Make a double crochet (dc)
Make a triple crochet (tc)
Make a slip stitch (ss)
Join a chain into a circle.
Make a special shell of 5dc in 1dc stitch (st)

The Set Up

To learn this pattern, I suggest any worsted weight yarn.
1 I/9 5.5mm crochet hook.
2 stitch markers. Place marker (pm)
1 pr of Scissors
1 blunt end needle for weaving in those loose threads.

Another close up example

1 measuring tape.

The Pattern: Part A Video

Round 1

Chain (ch) 3.
Make a circle by slip stitch (ss) of 3rd chain into the 1st ch as a join. (Makes a tiny circle)

Round 2

Ch 1 and insert the hook in the tiny hole and make a single crochet stitch (sc).
Make 8 more sc in this circle.
Ss the 9th st into 1st ch1.
Total 9 sts.

This is where we move from the circle to a half circle to work this project back and forth.

Working back and forth

Row 3

Ch 1 and turn.( This represents the first sc in the row)
1 sc in the next 2 sc and place marker (pm)
3 sc in the next sc.
1 sc in the next sc.
3 sc in the next sc.
pm and 1sc in the last 3 sc.
Total:13 sts

Row 4

Ch 3 and turn.(This represents the first dc in the row)
1 dc in the next 2 dc and pm.
5dc in the next dc.
1 dc in the next 5 dc.
5 dc in the next dc.
pm and 1 dc in the last 3 dc.
Total: 21 sts.

The Pattern: Part B Video Revised

Row 5

Ch 1 and turn.
1 sc in the next 2 dc and pm.
Triple crochet (tc) in the next dc.
1 sc in the next dc.
Continue (tc in the next dc and 1 sc in the next dc) until you get to the last 3 dc.
pm and 1 sc in the last 3 dc.

Another swatch as a reference

Total: 21 sts.

Row 6

Ch 3 and turn.
Dc in the next 2 sc and pm.
Make 5 dc in the next tc.
Dc in the next 13 sts.
Make 5 dc in the next tc.
pm and dc in the last 3 sc.
Total: 29 sts.

Do you see how the pattern works? It alternates with one row of dc and the next row of tc with sc.

Soooooooooooooooooooo.......
Row 7

Repeat Row 5.

Row 8

Repeat Row 6.

Where we stopped from Part B

Continue in this manner until the base of the shawl becomes 60-70 inches long.

15 inches from the top of the semi-circle to the base as a shawlette or go further.

The Progress

I know this is a short CVAL but Part C will cover Rows 7 and 8 and see the final outcome and its edging.

Be Creative! The purpose is to promote creativity and uniqueness.

You can add a picot edge or shells.

You can change anything on this pattern, for it is a guide to a half-circle shape.

Just be forgiving of my videos. After 11-12 tries, anything more than 2 minutes is tough.

Just enjoy and have fun with this project.

Don't forget: If you use lace yarn, take it slow and easy!

My gratitude to those who joined my Ravelry group on Valis' Crochet View-A-Long. Thanks so much!!!!!

Let's see those photos, and introduce yourself.

Don't forget to weave in ends with blunt end needle or crochet hook.

Remember to block your work.

Making Crochet Magic!!! Valis

Valis'Crochet View-A-Long

2010-07-26T19:58:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that I made a crochet view-a-long. Everything in video with instructions included. Still using silent movie with music genre but hey, that's me.

Also, added a crochet group in Ravelry, too.
It's Valis' Crochet View-A-Long.

Never done one before, so we have a new territory to visit. Some people don't like to wait so, I also did a PDF in general form to share.

Now, I'll be doing this as I go, so in essence it a CAL...for me. ;)
The photos are my swatches I've been working on and completing the video.Soooooooooon!!
Until then, make crochet magic! Valis

A Gift for Mara

2010-07-22T12:36:00.000-05:00

Shrug-using autumnal colors

When I work evenings on Wednesday nite, I stop by Kirby Lane for their great sweet potato fries. So awesome with their chipotle mayonaise on the side.

So nice outside-had to take photo

And there is Mara, this hard working gal at Kirby Lane. Always a smile and always serving her customers with such commitment. I wanted to do something for her to say "thank you" for making this place a great Austin attraction.
So, I made her a shrug from my pattern and embellished it with the elongated stitch and crochet edge back from Mypicot.com.
I tapered the cuffs and added a button to each side.

back side

front side

Hope you enjoy and happy knitting! Valis

Completed Valis' Short Sleeve Shrug

2010-07-09T21:38:00.005-05:00

Finally completed the Short Sleeve Shrug. New pics are here.

Decided to use in Elongated Stitch and kept to the measurements very nicely. This measurement is for Large/Xtra Large Size. A medium size young lady tried it on and the arms were longer and roomy from the middle section. Now, she liked it because she can add a blouse underneath with room to spare. Please swatch your projects. This shrug fit myself and another plus size young lady perfectly. For myself, I might go 17 inches from back of neck to hip, personally. This young lady loved the fit as I originally measured as the prototype.

It took only One skein of Worsted Weight Yarn.

With the Elongated Stitch, the edging to the arms are really nice.

For the neck and back, you can slip stitch with a crochet hook or single crochet to obtain a smoother edging to the neck and back area. Hey, I believe you can continue embellishing to your hearts content.

I truly love this pattern and getting ready to make more for upcoming Christmas gifts, Birthdays, and for charity, too.
New videos for the progress of this project on youtube along with the stitch guide video and pics available to you on Ravelry.
Decided to add the pattern again:

The Plan:

1. Size 8/24 inch circular needles to work project back and forth.

2. 4 Stitch markers.

3. Worsted weight yarn. For this project,1 Skein-Total of 250-350 yds.

4. Darning needle.

5. Scissors.

6. Measurements: Worked in Garter Stitch.

7. Gauge: 18 stitches (sts) per 4 inches.

(For example, I am 32 inches measured from elbow to elbow across.

I am a plus size and I am doing a short sleeve shrug as a prototype.)

8. Gauge: 24 rows per 4 inches.

(For example, I measures 15 inches from the back of the neck to the hip.)

____________inches Total Across: Elbow to Elbow

1/4 ___sts Arm 1/2___sts Neck 1/4___sts Arm

___________________________________________

____inches Down from Back of Neck to Hip

____knitted rows

Pink shaded area is the rectangled shrug

9. Cast on your ___ sts.

(My cast on is 144 sts. The arms are 32 sts for each arm and 72 sts for neck.)

The Pattern:

1. Garter stitch the first 1/4 total sts and place marker (pm), then knit (k) 1/2 total sts, pm; k the last 1/4 sts. Leave the markers there.

(For me, total of 144 sts=k36, pm, k72, pm, k36.)

2. The total amount of rows = the measurement from the back of the neck to the hip. Check your gauge on your swatch or you skein label to determine your rows.

(For me, the measurement is 15 inches. My gauge in a 4X4 swatch is 18sts X 24 rows. (6 rows per inch X 15 inches =90 rows.) After completing this shrug-some have requested to make the back length to 17 inches. Your choice!

3. Once you completed to the final row, bind off. Use scissors to cut off a very long piece of yarn. Place the second set of markers as in step 1 so as to keep the markers in place to sew with the darning needle the 2 arm placements.
4. Sew the 2 arm placements together.

5. Try on your new shrug.

6. Try any stitch you want to use. Add a ruffle, or add fringe. Be creative!
7. Block.

Remember, you make knitting magic! Valis

Valis' Short Sleeve Shrug

2010-06-29T23:32:00.001-05:00

Decided to share a new free pattern. Progress photos to come soon. I added a few knitting how to videos from YouTube. Enjoy!

Valis' Short Sleeve Shrug Pattern

The Plan:

1. Size 8/24 inch circular needles to work project back and forth.

2. 4 Stitch markers.

3. Worsted weight yarn. For this project,1 Skein-Total of 250-350 yds.

4. Darning needle.

5. Scissors.

6. Measurements: Worked in Garter Stitch.

7. Gauge: 18 stitches (sts) per 4 inches.

(For example, I am 32 inches measured from elbow to elbow across.

I am a plus size and I am doing a short sleeve shrug as a prototype.)

8. Gauge: 24 rows per 4 inches.

(For example, I measures 15 inches from the back of the neck to the hip.)

____________inches Total Across: Elbow to Elbow

1/4 ___sts Arm 1/2___sts Neck 1/4___sts Arm

___________________________________________

____inches Down from Back of Neck to Hip

____Total Rows to knit.

___________________________________________

Pink shaded area is the rectangled shrug

9. Cast on your ___ sts.

(My cast on is 144 sts. The arms are 32 sts for each arm and 72 sts for neck.)

The Pattern:

1. Garter stitch the first 1/4 total sts and place marker (pm), then knit (k) 1/2 total sts, pm; k the last 1/4 sts. Leave the markers there.

(For me, total of 144 sts=k36, pm, k72, pm, k36.)

2. The total amount of rows = the measurement from the back of the neck to the hip. Check your gauge on your swatch or you skein label to determine your rows.

(For me, the measurement is 15 inches. My gauge in a 4X4 swatch is 18sts X 24 rows. (6 rows per inch X 15 inches =90 rows.)

5. Try on your new shrug.

6. Try any stitch you want to use. Add a ruffle, or add fringe. Be creative.

Remember, you make knitting magic! Valis :)

Valis' Elongated Stitch

2010-06-21T14:02:00.003-05:00

Hey everyone,
Since sharing the new Triangle Shawl, there have been questions of a stitch I used my pattern. So, I made a how to video and it is now on youtube under Valis' Elongated Stitch . There are a few comments to assist you, too. If you are on Ravelry , this may help you.

I have a couple of photos while I worked on this project, maybe it may help you. 2 are during the making of the shawl and the 3rd is from a close up of the finished shawl. Hope this helps, Valis

2010-06-16T16:12:00.002-05:00

Valis' Triangle Shawl

This is my first pattern. Triangle shawl in garter stitch with rouching ruffle.
It has alternate ideas especially for a beginning knitter. The ruffle drapes nicely.

The photos show how the shawl collars nicely.
You can see the front and back view.

Valis' Triangle Shawl

Materials:

Worsted weight yarn-I Love this Yarn Stripes (Sugarplum) 1 skein= 250 yds. Total of 2 skeins/500 yds.
1-10.5/24 inch- 29 inch circular needle which yields 7 stitches/12 rows in 2 inch swatch.
Stitching back and forth to hold all stitches.
1 tapestry needle to weave any ends.
1 pr of scissors

Measurements:

From point to width: 30 inches each side.
Wide base: 36 inches.
Ruffle rouching is 2 inches thick.
Final ruffle is 47 inches wide.

The Pattern:
Starting at the point:

Cast on 1 stitch. Knit this stitch and turn. (1)
Knit one in front and back and turn. (k1f/b) (2)
Knit first stitch in the front and back and knit to the end and turn. (3)
Knit first stitch in the front and back and knit to the end and turn and continue until there are 135 stitches.

Begin the ruffle:

Knit one and yo to the end and turn. (270)
Knit the next row and turn. (270)
Knit 1 stitch and knit again in the same stitch which elongates the stitch (not a k1f/b).
Refer to video on youtube.Turn.(270)
Repeat 3 rows like this.
(If too confusing, you may use the drop stitch method)
Or just knit the next 4-6 rows to make a 2 inch ( or wider) ruffle

Bind off instruction:

Knit one stitch, then knit the next 2 stitches together which becomes one stitch.
Now, knit the first and knit 2 together stitch you just did.
Continue this bind off to the end.
Basically, it is a knit 2 together bind off.
(If too confusing, just do a simple bind off of your choice :)

Let this pattern be a journey and use your own stitches. It's all fun to make.
Happy knitting, Valis

Finished Lacy Square Afghan...

2010-06-15T19:28:00.001-05:00

Finally finished my Lacy Square Afghan today. There were several photos taken at the local Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. However, lost the majority trying to download...I should start reading directions. anyway, here are 2 pics to show the completed project.

I tried a different final edging using single crochet and triple crochet throughout the edge and gave the afghan a textured ending.

This is the final triangle shawl and started working on the edge. I wanted to do a picot but decided with increasing at the base using my own long stitch versus a dropped stitch due to my awkward left-handedness.

Here are 2 images of the start of the increase at the base.

So right now I am home. I should be done with this shawl tonite. We'll see.;) Valis