Crochet Chiq

Love Granny Square

2021-01-10T14:33:00.000-08:00

How adorable is this solid heart in a granny?? I started making amigurumi hearts because I was just feeling so sad, upset and worried by everything in the news and I knew I needed something positive to focus on!

I recommend carrying both colors with you as you work your square so you don't have as many ends to weave!

I used Yarn Bee Soft Sleek and Chunky and a size F hook

You can use any 4 or 5 ply yarn and then go two hook sizes down to create a tight pattern.

HC=Heart Color

BC= Background color

Round 1

using HC make a magic ring, chain 3 2dc, ch3,3dc,ch3,3dc,ch3,3dc, ch 3 and join with beginning of the round

Round 2

using HC chain 3 1 dc in each dc, in corner 2dc, ch 2, 2dc, then dc in each stitch along the side, 2dc, ch2,2dc in corner, repeat until you get to the beginning and join.

Round 3

Using BC skip the first 2 stitches of any side, ch3, dc in nest two stitches, Using HC 1 dc in each stitch 2dc, ch2,2dc in each corner. * The spot where there is 3 stitches in BC is the top of your square.*

Round 4

Starting at top right corner using HC ch3, 2dc,ch2,dc, the dc in next two stitches, change to BC and dc in the next 7 stitches. switch to HC dc in the last 2 stitches, in the corner 2dc,ch2,2dc, dc in the next 9 stitches, change to BC dc in next 2 stitches, 2dc,ch2,2dc in corner, dc in next 2 stitches, switch to HC dc in next 7 stitches, switch to BC dc in next 2 stitches, 2dc, ch2, 2dc in corner, dc in the next 2 stitches, switch to HC dc in the next 9 stitches, and join.

Round 5

Starting at the top right corner using BC 2dc,ch2,2dc in the corner, work 1 dc in the next 15 stitches, work 2dc,ch2,2dc in corner. work 1 dc in the next 2 stitches. Switch to HC work 1 dc in the next 7 stitches, switch to BC work 1 dc in the next 6 stitches, work 2 dc,ch2,2dc in the corner. work 1 dc in the next 6 stitches, switch to HC work 1 dc in the next 3 stitches, switch to BC work 1 dc in the next 6 stitches, work 2 dc,ch2,2dc in the corner. work 1 dc in the next 6 stiches, switch to HC work 1 dc in the next 7 stitches, switch to BC dc in the last 2 stitches and join.

Round 6

Using BC starting at top right corner, *2dc,ch2,2dc in corner, dc in the next 19 stitches* repeat until you have completed the square then join.

What will you make and what colors will you use? comment below! Tag @crochetchiq if you post any project photos!

Invisible Join Tip for yarn projects

2020-04-18T10:30:00.000-07:00

I am using Red Heart Super Saver Ombre Yarn and an I hook

This is a quick back I wanted to share for those that want a join that is invisible even when you are working with multiple colors!
I'm in the process of making a Corner to Corner throw of various colors and am making panels of the same length but different widths. To join them I am using a needle and thread to sew together and below you will see what the front and back look like when you do this. I always double thread and hand stitch when using this method. I start by placing the panels on top of each other and stitch about 2 stitches in every crocheted stitch. You can go in the yarn. It doesn't have to be like when you see with the yarn.

The Front

The back, can you tell I used Hot Pink Thread?

Video of how to decrease a Corner to Corner

2020-04-17T21:13:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone, a friend was getting stuck on how to decrease her corner to corners, so I shot a quick unedited video to show. I'm going to film this next week, please let me know what you would like to see.

Free Lacey Hexagon Pattern

2019-04-28T19:04:00.000-07:00

This pattern can be used with any yarn or hook size. I used Pantone by Caron which comes with 5 Hanks that are designed to go together.

I am making a larger project with these cute hexagons but thought I would share the base pattern first. I used a size G hook.

Round 1
start with a magic circle, chain 3 and DC into ring, chain two *dc 2 chain 2* repeat 3 times. You should have a total of five sets of 2 dc's and chain 2. Sl into the first chain 3.

Round 2
sl to nearest chain 2 space. (These are the corners) chain 3, dc, chain 2, 2dc all in the ch2 space. Ch1* 2 dc chain 2 2dc in the next chain 2 space, chain 1* repeat 3 times and slept to first chain 3.

Round 3
sl to nearest chain 2 space, chain 3, dc, chain 2, 2dc in the same space, chain 1 two dc, chain 1 in chain 1 space, *2dc, chain 2, 2dc in next chain 2 space, chain 1 2dc chain 1 in next chain 1 space* repeat three times and sl with beginning chain three.

Round 4
Sl to nearest ch 2 space, chain 3 dc, chain 2, 2 dc in that space. Chain 1 2dc in the next two chain 1 spaces. Chain 1 * 2 dc, chain 2, 2 dc chain 1 in chain 2 space, 2 dc chain 1 in the next two chain 1 spaces* repeat three times and Sl with beginning chain 3.

Round 5
Sl to the nearest chain 2 space, chain 3, dc, chain 2, 2 dc all in the chain 2 space. Chain 1, 2 dc in the next three chain 1 spaces. *2 dc, chain 2, 2 dc in next chain 2 space, chain 1, 2 dc in the next three chain 1 spaces, chain 1* repeat three times and Sl with first chain 3.

The corners all have 2 dc chain 2 2 dc.
The sides have 2 dc in the chain 1 spaces with a chain 1 in between each one.

How to make a DIY Crochet Circle Vest, Instruction to use your favorite doily pattern and my FREE pattern is included as well

2018-04-20T09:34:00.000-07:00

This one drove me crazy until I made several! Anyone else hook in their car?

This pattern is for advance beginners and beyond

For those that prefer an exact stitch count for every size this in not the pattern for you. I made this pattern last year but didn't put it up because i don't have the yarn budget and whew the time to make this in every size. If you search circle vest patterns on ravelry I am sure you can find paid patterns in any size you want.

I have taught this as a class in a major craft store and many students loved the idea of learning to make something with this level of customization .

Note I instead of just giving you what I did to make my size I am giving you all of my notes so you can make it in your size as well. If you are comfortable reading patterns then this should not be difficult for you however I would not suggest this pattern to be the first written pattern you should try.

Every time I have make this I have used a different 4ply yarn

Red Heart with love- Soft and slightly thicker than other 4 plys for a warmer vest, try subbing out all the tr for dc or use a dc base circle pattern like the one linked below for a warm vest

Caron Simply soft, Lion Brand Pound of love - thinner more lacey

Lion brand homespun is a bulky yarn and perfect for those in cold weather! I had a student make one for her daughter who went to school on the east coast and she loved it!

Other yarns that look great but may not be in every ones budget (I never go yarn shopping without coupons!) are Bernat Moasic, Red Heart Boutique Midnight, Vanna's sequin doubled ( holding two strands as one)

The reason I mention the other yarns is although they may be pricey using them for a special project is worth the cost. Think of how much you would send in the store. And this may not want to be the project you want to splurge on but keep it in mind and treat yourself once and a while to yarn you normally don't use.

Each yarn brand has a different amount... I would recomend getting 2 balls of what every you choose and you most likely will have left overs. With the caron and the with love yarn I bought two color for each and had lots of left over yarn after making a teal and grey in the caron and a brown and iced blue in the with love. I made mine in an xl size

Make a Magic circle

Round 1 - Chain 4, 17 triple crochet in the ring ( if you would like to alter the beginning size of the circle add 2, 4, 6, ect. just add a multiple of two, I don"t recommend starting with more that 26) total of 18

Round 2 - chain 7 ( ch 4 for first triple crochet, plus chain3) skip 1 tc, *tc in next,chain 3* repeat all the way around total of 9 tc and 9 chain 3's (it want to curl a bit here but in round 3 and 4 it straightens out)

Round 3 (a)- chain 4, 2 tc ( all in the same space), skip 3 spaces ( you will only be crocheting into the top of your tc of round 2) ch2, *3 tc, skip 3 spaces, chain 2* repeat total count of 27 tc

Round 4(b)- chain 4, tr in each stitch 3 tc in the chain 2,* tc 3 times, 3 tc in ch 2* repeat for a total of 57 tc

Round 5(c) chain 8, skip 2 tr *tr, chain 4, skip 2* repeat * depending on your starting number your may not have the correct count for skipping two. that is okay just skip one space on your last stitch.

if you want tight stitches use a g, if you want a quicker more open vest use a J or Q

play with it and esp. if you use the larger hook blocking will make a huge difference!

Optional round a variation - try doing this instead on all or a few round a's to spice it up.

ch 4 *2tr, ch2 2tr in chain 4 sp, 1 tr in the next tr*repeat.

for arm holes stop the pattern as soon as the circle reaches your shoulders

then chain 20 to 30 depending you your size

and continue on with the next round of the pattern until you get you the next space
Keep repeating rounds a, b, and c until you have the right circumference

** For those using a doily or other circle pattern ( I am currently making one using this great pattern! ) follow the pattern until your circle is the right circumference, laying down a shirt in the size you want is a great way to see if your circle is the right size see photo below.

The road to Mrs. started with a photo shoot for Crochet Chiq

2018-04-03T16:19:00.001-07:00

So do any of you remember this post? from over 5 years ago?

My long time friend Harold was kind enough to model a beanie for me. We ended up going to downtown Disney to take some photos and grabbed some dinner while we were there. Well If you haven't been to Down Town Disney at Christmas at night let me fill you in, it is extremely beautiful and romantic! That evening I only took 2 photos because I was all nervous and distracted by "My maybe he is more than a friend", friend! At the end of the night I think he stood talking to me at by back door for almost 30 minutes and I thought he was going to kiss me! I found out later he was thinking about it but was also afraid of being slapped! We ended up hanging out a lot and had a lot of almost kiss moments and then he finally asked me out for our first official date! Problem was it was for New Year's Eve on the Queen Mary and as a single mom of 2 I had nothing to wear and very little money. I found a great sleeveless dress on sale and decided to make a shawl in 2 days to wear!! EEKK! I was so stressed and grateful my job was to demo at Michaels so I worked on the shawl at work!! A few months later I wore the shawl to the CHA Craft show and RED HEART YARNS bought the PATTERN!!!! View that post HERE or see the The Crochet Crowd how to video HERE! WOW when Mikey covers your pattern you feel pretty amazing! I never would have made this particular design If Harold hadn't asked me out to a super fancy place! And yes we had our first kiss that night! If you look around I mention him a few other times on the blog and he even designed and crocheted a granny square here !
This blog was like my wing man and I am so happy to share with you that we tied the KNOT in February

and couldn't be happier! If you are a romantic his mom did get the proposal on video and I have that here .

Now that things calm calm down I can't wait to get back to designing! What type of patterns would you like to see most? Comment below and let me know!

Prisma is the must have new filter app

2016-07-25T07:58:00.000-07:00

Not everyone is a photographer,but we all want this wow photos of our projects right? This new app just dropped in the play store called prisma!

Above is a screen shot of the app

Here are some fun examples I did with an every day wip photo

This is the original

These are just 3 of the many filters you can use to jazz up your photos, it also has a slider to control how much of the filter you want!

It does take a minute or two to create but it's worth it!

Here is a fun cartoon photo of my youngest! He thinks I'm super cool for turning him into a cartoon!

Berry Harvest pattern by Moody blog review

2016-07-21T09:54:00.002-07:00

I love how easy Tamera makes this lace pattern! There are written instructions, a chart and a video so no matter what way you prefer you can learn this. Crochet lace may be scary to some but I think this is a great intro project. I used Patons lace and an I hook ( yes that big!). The pattern in very repetitive so after a few rows you will get the hang of it. It's also forgiving the my shawl has 2 mistakes that I didn't go back an fix!! I honestly didn't do the border because I wanted to me done so I added fringe which I really love!
I donated this scarf to an auction for a chartiy for music education for low income children and I am very proud to say that it went for $100 (I spent 4 dollars on the yarn and it took me less than a week crocheting only in the evenings to make, I am very happy with that number!)
*I used a little less than 2 balls of Paton's Lace by Yarnspirations to make this!*

Head over to Moogly's Site and Get the free Pattern HERE

New more user friendly site!

2015-07-18T14:48:00.003-07:00

Current projects include:

If these projects look unfamiliar please go to www.CrochetChiq.com to see the full free patterns and diy instructions! THANK YOU so much for being a loyal subscriber :) xoxoxoxo Mary Kathryn

Noah's Ice Cream #scarfie

2015-01-15T14:38:00.003-08:00

I was lucky enough to spend some time with the amazing people from Lion Brand while I was at the CHA and as soon as my 5 year old spotted this yarn they gave me he decided it was his! Ice Cream yarn in the colorway Cotton Candy ! So I am making a full size scarf we can share :)

I offered to pick him up a ball without pink or purple but he loved the name

This Free pattern is advanced beginner and uses sc, hdc, dc, tr
I hook
1 ball of Lion Brand Ice Cream yarn

Chain 16 *turn at the end of every row*

Row A: ch1, sc in the next 4 stitches, hdc in the next 4 stitches, dc in the next 4 stitches, tr in the next 4 stitches.

Row B: ch1 sc in each stitch until the end of row.

Row C: ch3, tr in first stitch, tr I'm next 3 stitches, dc in the next 4 stitches, hdc in the next 4 stitches, sc in the last 4 stitches.

Row D: ch1 sc in each stitch.

Repeat rows A to D until your scarf is the length you desire.

I love how the color changes in the yarn highlight the stitch pattern! Don't forget to share photos of your scarf using the #hashtag #scarfie

Lion Brand fashion show and the #scarfie

2015-01-14T11:26:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of meeting Vanna at the Lion Brand fashion show Sunday!!
Here is the link to last year's show

I was lucky enough to be sitting in the 2nd row and right by Vanna, in the photo above is the president of Lion Brand David Blumenthal.

I know my photos are not ideal but they were the best I could get!

Here is a closer look at Vanna's shawl they are tiny granny squares using Vanna's glamor and bon bons. Anyone could make this and look amazing! The fashion show focused on squares and blocks and how easy shapes can make amazing farmers even for the beginner! While I was watching the show I thought of Megan Trainer's song but instead of its all about that bass.... "it's all about that block, that block.. No shaping. .."

This was one of my favorites!

LB pattern L40271

Ombre! Who doesn't crazy for it? This was another one of those block like designs which is fun and makes it easy for ANY beginner to make something they can wear!

I know that one is knit but wow is that a fun spin on the Pancho! I love the 2 tones and textures together!

This reminds me of the quilts my grandma used to make! I absolutely love log cabins!

The color blocking on this one is fun! I would totally wear this and I am not a Pancho person! I like how it has the sleeves so it stays in place and you can use your hands!

Here are some photos from the Booth :)

The #scarfie hashtag is huge! Take a photo with a scarf made with Lion Brand Yarn and post it online with the hashtag.

Yes that is a giant knitted iphone! All the people with the #scarfie hashtag are on it!

Look who I found to the a #scarfie with! My dear friend Yolanda of the All Crafts Channel

What is your favorite Lion Brand pattern? Comment below

Yarnia

2015-01-14T10:42:00.000-08:00

I was at the Craft and Hobby Association show in Anaheim Ca! I will have many posts about the show but let's start with the Yarnspirations booth!

Looking out through the wardrobe you get a glimpse of Yarnia!

The details just blew me away! Yarnspirations spent about 10 months putting this booth together! I loved seeing the different yarn lines they have shine in thier unique applications. For example they used thier metallic yarn to make the chain maille and word has it that it's done in movies that way too!

I wish a had a few more photos of the tent to show you! Each panel was a different stitch and I can't even imagine how many hours it took to create!

This has to be my favorite of all them if I had to pick...I love how it goes from a fine knit to a jumbo one!

This is a lovely example of the different yarns all working together to make a jaw stopping creation.

Of all the things to be excited about these sure made me say awww out loud!

This is something any crocheter could do! Just graph what you want and sc the the colors!

I personally always have crochet snowflakes on my trees and I loved that Yarnia has them too!

I stand in awe of the person who knit this! The details are beautiful!

The brick wall was clever! I think it would make a fun afghan too! I know my boyfriend was saying he would mind one... uh oh maybe I shouldnt be sharing these photos with him... ..

These ladies are to die for....I especially love the purple dress! What was your favorite? Comment below!

I thought I would include my photo from the Yarnspirations booth at

the Prime Blogger event! THE one and only Vickie Howell was there handing out finger knit cuffs!

Most Popular free Crochet Blogger patterns of 2014

2015-01-03T14:21:00.000-08:00

I thought it would be fun to post my blogging designer friends most popular pattern from last year and wow there are some amazing patterns out there! Which are your favorite? The top one for my blog was the same top one from last year, the hT I designed for my Grandma free pattern here

Easy Star Stitch Blanket by Ag Handmade

Paper dolls shawl by Kim Guzman

Pink Mambo's Calypso-crochet-shawlette

Tranquil waves puse by The Crochest Lounge

Beyound Infinity from Granny's Heart

MNE crafts made this lovely mockknit set

Desert Hope beanie by Simply Collectable

Amazing Grace Snoodie by BeatriceyandDesigns

Moogly has hit a home run with here up a down collection , the beanie pattern is linked here

Fabi's v stitch dish cloth

Temp Scarf by Underground Crafter

Bulky stacked shell cowl by Creation Crochet

Blanket jacket by Katidcreations

Bobble Beard by Ashley Marie

Hows about hat by GrammyDirlam

Newborn bear beanie with. bow by CEDdesigns

Snow Bear Scoodie by Dearest Debi

Adult Chunky Slippers crochet by Jennifer

Skylark Scarf by Jessie at home

Floathing shells by Triflesntreasures

Check back tomorrow for a collection of the top paid patterns!

Thread Cross Bookmark

2014-08-04T21:22:00.000-07:00

I used Aunt Lydia's Crochet thread and a size D hook.

Make a magic circle

Round 1
Ch3, 2dc, ch2, 3dc, ch2, 3dc, ch2, 3dc, ch2 and join.

Sides and top of cross
Ch3 2dc, ch2, dc3 in any ch2 sp. Turn and *sl to ch2, ch3,2dc, ch2,3dc. *Turn and repeat * repeat everything in this step 3 more times. Cut thread and weave in ends at the ends of the sides.

Bottom of the cross
When you get to the last side repeat the * section 2 more times for a total of 4 shells for the bottom and 2 shells for the sides not including the center.

On the top of the cross attach yarn and chain 26, skip the first 5 and sl to the first chain. Then I added a tassel.

If thread isn't your thing check out this great bookmark Stitch 11 made from my Cross Bangle pattern!

Check out the Stitch 11 post here

How to loom Simple adorable, one of a kind Angel Babies

2014-07-12T19:54:00.003-07:00

Hi, I’m Sharona Wilson. My daughter Pam and I make loom knitted dolls for charity. We recently sent off two dozen to an orphanage in Haiti, followed by a batch to a local Alzheimers center, and a batch to our local sheriff’s station for their children in crisis program. Mary has asked me to share a bit about the dolls, so here goes.

I stumbled onto loom knitting quite accidentally. I took a group of girls from the church to summer camp. During the daily activities, the girls signed up for badge classes, and the leaders were told “if you aren't teaching a class, you need to be attending one with your girls”. (I guess one year they found a group of leaders taking long naps during badge classes.) LOL. No, it wasn't me. Really. I decided to take the loom knitting class, and was introduced to Knifty Knitter looms and learned to make a simple baby hat. I went home after summer camp, bought a set of looms and have never looked back.

After a couple of years of the same badge class, the badge teacher realized that the same girls were taking the class each summer, so saw the need for an “advanced” class and taught the girls to make a simple doll. Just a doll with a stitched face and a hat. They were told to go home and get one of their old baby blankets to wrap the baby.

I've worked up the design for the babies, and then designed a simple cocoon blanket. The dolls are delightful and everyone who sees them falls in love with them. So, here you are. Follow these simple directions and you can have a knitted baby doll of your own.

I start with making the doll form. I cut two pieces of light colored fabric, 10”x6”, and stitch the sides and top, rounding the top to make the head. Turn, stuff, and sew the bottom shut. I then do a running stitch with yarn about 1/3 of the way from the top, and pull tight, to form the neck. (All that being said, I do know people who just use an old sock.)

**for my loyal crochet readers, if you want to give this a try Check out Kristen at GoodKnitKisses youtube playlist HERE to learn the basics, MK***

The doll sock is loomed on the KK blue loom (24 peg). Ewrap and knit 40 rows (10 inches) and gather off. Use whatever skin tone you like. All looming done on this pattern is with two strands of yarn.

The sock will slide over the doll form and will form itself to the neck you made on the doll form. Sew the bottom shut.

The thing that will give your baby doll personality is the face. It does not have to be difficult, as long as it’s cute. I do a simple mouth and eyes stitched in yarn. I have found the triangle shaped mouth gives a great expression. I do the entire face on the lower half of the head, leaving plenty of room for the hat. Honestly, the face is what makes the doll especially adorable. Don’t tell anyone, but I stitch the face by using a long sharp quilting needle, and running it through the back of the head to anchor the stitches firmly. The hat will cover the knots on the back, and the face stitches cannot possibly come loose.

Now let’s work on the clothes. Of course, planning the outfits is the most fun! The hat is made on the blue KK loom as well. Ewrap eight rows, then turn a hem. Complete ten more rows, then gather off.

The hair can be made a couple of ways. My usual style is to make a loop stitch on 17 of the 24 rows, about ½” under the brim of the hat. Yes, the hair is attached to the hat, not the head. Cut the hair to about 1” or so in length, then with your hook or a needle, separate the strands of the yarn. This will give you curly hair. (I

have also made the hair using simple loops, or I have made braids, or long straight hair, or I have even used Fun Fur (a double strand) to give wild spiky hair.)

Position the hat on the head and secure with a hot glue gun, applying the glue just under the brim all the way around. Glue a pom pom on top. At this point I generally add a ribbon around the neck as an additional accessory.

Now for the cocoon. Use the red KK loom (31 pegs). You will start by ewrapping, but do not complete the circle. Leave the last wrap open, and then wrap rows back and forth so that you are making open rows. Wrap eight rows, then turn a hem. Continue for ten more rows, leaving open.

At this point, go ahead and close the circle and ewrap and knit 22 more rows, wrapping completely around the circle. Gather off.

The baby will slide right down inside the cocoon perfectly. Trim with a ribbon if

you like, to match the ribbon on the baby.And just like that, you have a precious little baby doll, which, if I do say so myself, is absolutely adorable.

Now you can just let your imagination run wild. Try all sorts of things: sports

themed babies, garden babies, superhero babies, even Waldo, if you can find him.

Like I say, we make the babies mostly for charity. Do we sell them as well? Well, yes, of course. But all the money we make selling babies goes right back into more yarn to make more items for those around us who could use a cuddly little friend when things get tough.

Sharona has a paypal set up for donations, to help make more of these babies for charity, if you feel so inclined donate any amount using the above button. How about some love to Sharona for sharing this free pattern with us!

Chic Phone Clutch

2014-07-12T14:15:00.000-07:00

I wanted to make a cute mini case that would my phone and my id, keys and cash... I am so happy with how my Chic Phone clutch came out!

I have a Note 3, which is on the large side of phones so if you want a smaller one just chain less.

Supplies
1 ball Vannas choice .... I used dark Heather Grey.
50 yards or so of a contrasting color.
1 zipper which is optional
1/2 a yard of your favorite trim for the handle, I found mine at Joanns and it was only 1.99 a yard. Make sure you pick a sturdy trim.

You also need an I and a F crochet hook.

With your main color, and I hook loosely chain 16 ( for a smaller phone like an iPhone ) or 20 ( for larger phones like mine or if you want extra room.)

Ch1, sc, ch1, sk 1, sc, ch1 etc... repeat until you are at the end then, sc,ch1,sc,ch1,sc, ch1 and continue the sc,ch1 along the other side of the chain. When you reach the beginning make sure the first ch has 3 sc and 3 ch.

This project is worked in the round from here on out do not join.

Sc around the entire chain from her on out.

Every Round:
Sc around ch, ch1, sc around ch repeat I til your bag is 5 inches tall.

Skip a ch and sl for your last stitch.

Next comes the fun part!

With your contrasting color and F hook make a slip knot and the take it off your hook.
Insert your hook where you would like to start your design then put the slip stitch back on the hook. Your working yarn will be under the bag. You surface slip stitches to design your initials, something abstract or a picture. Here is a few photos of what the inside looks like.

Be careful not to pull up too tightly or it will pull the shape of your bag.

It may take a few tries to get it down, I know I played with several ideas before I decided on doing my initials on the front connected to an abstract design on the back.

Be sure to knot and weave in your end/ends. You can line your bag at this point if you desire.

Next it's time to add the trim, I attached mine at the bottom corner on the inside so that it was more stable. You can hand sew or use your machine. The last step is to add a zipper! Check out my tutorial on that here! How to line and or add a zipper to you bag

just another yarn night and a new way to cast on while knitting/ arm knitting

2014-07-09T10:32:00.000-07:00

Here is a photo from last night at the yarn meet up. Can you guess which coffee shop it was at? I was asked to show how to arm knit and at first no one really thought it would be as easy as it was! I used left over balls of yarn. That were bulky, you can also use 4 strands of 4 ply or mix it up! The yarn above is Red Heart Ribbons and Red Heart with love, and wow is it a soft fun scarf!

Here is another photo in better light the I took this morning .

To make this you just cast on 4, until last night I only ever used the long tail cast on, however my friend Sharona showed me her favorite way to cast on and I filmed a quick video with my tablet this morning to show you... forgive the tank top because I am MELTING here in socal I think I may end up 3 sizes smaller due to this nonstop heat!

Above is the new cast on and below is the long tail with full tutorial

Also I found the project I originally used the Red Heart Ribbons for

click here for this free pattern

finger crochet cowl

2014-07-08T13:13:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! I took a ball of Lionbrand Heartland Thick and Quick with me to an Angel baseball game. I always bring yarn because while going to games is fun the boys in my life enjoy them far more than I do! This project to only took me 1/2 of an inning to create so it you want something quick this is your project.

I only used 1/2 of the ball but you can get an extreme one by using the whole ball... it would be perfect for cooler weather.

I started by making a slip knot with my fingers.
Then I wrapped the yarn around my index finger and pulled through so that I was chaining with my fingers. See photos below. After you have finger crocheted the length you want, I did 1/2 the ball knot the end, wrap around your neck to the desired length and use about 6 inches to wrap around all the strands like the photos show. I weaved in my ends or you can use fabric glue to make it super secure. Any 5 ply or 6 ply yarn can be used to make this.I have a kids tutorial for finger crochet here

And here is a shot of the field...my boyfriend was given these amazing seats for being such a great employee, Thank you T-Mobile!

And another close up of the scarf/ cowl

Do you know the company you get your craft supplies from?

2014-07-02T16:19:00.002-07:00

In an ideal world I am sure many more of us would only use organic locally made craft supplies, but for alot of crafters that isn't an option. However you still can choose which stores and brands you want to support. Google is your best friend in this department you can search and find out info on about any company or product you want.

I have researched alot about Hobby Lobby and although I am christian and love companies with Christian values I don't agree with their stance againest woman's health. They are a FOR PROFIT company and for them to be able to deny coverage of something because it's againest thier beliefs ( yet they will still do business with companies that do exactly what is against their faith) doesn't seem right to me. There are many religions that don't think we should vaccinate, take antibotics, or even see a doctor at all.
I don'the want to tell you what to think, we all have a right to think what we want I just want to encourage you to research companies you purchase from. Below are some links to articles about the hobby lobby case.

What are your thoughts?

http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2014/06/30/326926331/companies-can-refuse-to-cover-contraception-supreme-court-say

http://www.cnn.com/2014/06/30/politics/scotus-obamacare-contraception/
http://time.com/2945942/planned-parenthood-hobby-lobby/

Grandma's Strawberry Avocado Salad Recipe

2014-06-26T16:05:00.002-07:00

Hello here is a fun but non Crochet post. Today my grandma threw a Garden themed lunch for her scrapbooking friends and I just have to share a few of the details with you!

We used potted fresh herbs down the center of the table and she had many little garden accents! For lunch she served quiche ( she is not parting with the recipe to that one) and a mouth watering Starwberry Avocado Salad.

To Make the Dressing:

2 TBSP White Sugar

2 TBSP Extra Virgin Olive Oil

4 TSP Honey

1 TBSP Cider Vinegar

1 TSP Lemon Juice

Whisk together and set aside.

To make the salad

2 cups torn salad greens

1 Avocada peeled and pitted

10 Strawberries sliced

1/2 cup chopped Pecans

Place salad greens in bowl and toss with dressing. Then top with sliced avocado, strawberries and pecans

That is my lovely Grandma in the blue and one of her friends :)

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we have!!!!

Yarn wrapped flag

2014-06-24T22:47:00.000-07:00

I recently saw this adorable project at my local Joann's and I fell in love with it! I asked the person finishing it if I could share this with everyone on my blog and she said yes! After some searching I found the project link HERE on the site it shows all the specs. And even has it in a wood frame! The example in the store used 2 foam core boards one for the back and one cut into strip for wrapping... Also the the one in the store used homespun and the website uses another Lion Brand Yarn. What do you of this quick fun project, Are you likely to make one for the 4th of July?

When art is inside you, it will come out via any medium available!

2014-06-23T09:37:00.000-07:00

A pregnancy inspires many crocheters to make the cutest of baby blankets, christening gowns baby booties and more, but what is an extremely talented artist to do when she finds out she can't paint for 9 months? Read my Q and A with Katerina Penzina below and find out what this Russian artist decided to do! I first discovered Katerina's work only a week ago if that when YARNBOMBS ( aka Stephen) reposted her work to his instagram and more than tripled her followers just by getting her work out there, Take a look at her Instagram Blogspot and her facebook for more of her work!

1.Your crochet art is so unique ( in a great way) what inspired you to start creating this way? What term would you best use to describe it?

My pregnancy - my inspiration :) - Or rather, a necessity. Since childhood I love to create art. Paintings, drawings, collages - all of this I like very much. I have been exhibiting my works (in different techniques: paintings, drawings, collages, etc) in various galleries all over Russia for some years now. The last few years I painted with oil. But I used toxic solvents, they are heavy. When I found out about the pregnancy, I realized that I

will not be able draw for 9 months. (Dangerous, I suppose.)

I thought for a long time - what should I do? Creative ambitions! Wanted to make art.

Usually at this time of the women knit or crochet, sew .. doing needlework. And I decided to combine: drawing portraits and crochet.

A term I have not yet invented) ... -crochet-portraits, Crochart

I love this photo of her!

2. At what age did you first learn to crochet?

At 7 years, I have learned to crochet. At school. All children learned to crochet ))

3. Do you have a favorite type of yarn or hook to use?

None. And yarn and hooks - very ordinary. I found this at home. I buy yarn in the store. Choose colors. I know nothing about this. ))))))

4. Your pieces have a very free-form feel, do you sketch or plan out your ideas on paper before you begin?

I invent in the process of what to do next. I have two identical pictures, one - for watching, the second - a diagram by hand.

5. Do you have a favorite piece? What does it mean to you?

All this - my favorite. This is my salvation from boredom.

6. Besides crochet what other forms of art do you enjoy?

I love animation (that's my job) and love painting. But all forms of art are interesting to me.

7. What did your friends and family think after you made your first piece?

My husband, mom and dad - approve and support the my eksperementy. For the other - just funny, I think) for Russia is not very interesting.

8. Tell us about how crafting with your hands is valued or devalued in your area.

Much of my audience is Japanese. In my area it is not popular. Only old women crochet. Or I do not know where the young ones are.

9. For those that want to try an attempt to make art in the same style do you have any tips you want to share?

Do not be afraid. If you want - do it) I think it's not difficult) Imagination, skills, time (and pregnancy!)))) - that's all.

WOW is anyone else amazed by her art? I can't draw ( anyone who has played draw something ( a cell phone app game) with me can attest to that! however I can crochet all sorts of shapes so with some trial and error I am going to attempt to make something new :) How about YOU? Are you inspired???

SummerFriday Funnies

2014-06-13T12:30:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share some of the Funny quotes, memes and photos I have seen around the world wide web relating to yarn this week! Email me your favorite at CrochetChiq@gmail.com and I will share it next week

Found this on AFCAP facebook

A contagious disorder is looming .....There is no known cure. It is the MLD, Multiple Loom Disorder, characterized by the many looms owned and sought by those affected. Those with the disorder have been known to take drastic measures to feed their affliction. Here a loom, there are loom, everywhere a loom. Looms tossed here and there, some with nearly finished projects, others apparently abandoned for a more sparkly loom. found this in a facebook looming group

I thankfully just have my knitting board ones... hahaha anyone on here have too many looms????

This is from the hit show #oitnb or Orange is the New Blanket , the quote is a bout a beautiful crochet blanket haha. WARNING this show is not a show to watch around children, there is nudity, cursing, and all sorts of other things that made me blush! However if you do watch it, there is lots of crafty goodness to be found!

The next ones I couldn't find the original source,

"I have OCD Obsessive Crocheting Disorder"

every funny needs a hey girl.....

Not that I would ever condone violence but this made me giggle even my own family will asking me how my knitting blog is..... ITS CROCHET!!!!!!! Okay I hope i made you giggle a tad bit! Have a great weekend everyone!

Did you see my funny spoof video on youtube all about yarn?

Most popular posts for the last 7 days and a new free pattern for children coming soon!

2014-06-13T09:25:00.002-07:00

I hope everyone has had a great week! My has been full of adventure, loads of free time to crochet and sadly a quick trip to the ER because my youngest had to get stitches after falling on a playground! Ouch! anyone else ever have to take a child under 6 in for stitches? It can be a very traumatic experience but he was a brave little boy!

Here is a photo of him this am, he is on the mend now esp. with an ice cream cone! His trip inspired a new pattern ( he drew a picture and asked me to crochet it) which I hope will be done in the next few weeks so be on the look out!

Here are the top 10 trending post for the last 7 days, have you seen them all? *Also I am taking pattern requests so if there is something you would like to see a pattern for let me know! Please understand I can't do something the next day and that things take time, also I don't do trademarks items for legal reasons!**

10. Crocodile Flip Flops * all sizes*

9. Shell Shorts - a great bathing suit cover up, or many have used these for sleep shorts, *I've been told many a hubby's like these*

8.All Free Crochet All Season Ebook

7.Lizard's Mouth * interview and amazing photos of yarn bombed boulders in nature

6.Mini Horns-

5 Wedding Necklace

4.Anything Clutch - one of my first few patterns

3. Vertical Crocodile Stitch - an all time favorite

2. My Back to class bag, with cute ribbon details!

1.A Maleficent Cowl

Chiq Wedding Necklace - updated format

2014-06-12T17:34:00.000-07:00

This flower was in the wedding section for only 4.99

How Stunning is this???? Even if you are not getting married this yarn is available in many colors make one or 10!!!

The best part this is basically a chain! WHAT??? Yes I chained RIBBON yarn and made this stunning necklace in about 30 minutes!!

I teach this class as a "lets see if I want to try crochet but I want something cute right now kind of class at Micheal's arts and crafts"

Supplies : any ribbon yarn . There are MANY brands out there , the following is a loops and thread one, but any ribbon yarn will do

Flower or pendent notion, and a crochet hook any size between D to I

Spaces are the huge rectangle gaps at the top

Instead of making a slip knot, just insert your hook into a ladder ( for strength of your work skip the first ladder space, like I did.)

Now go to the next space ( or skip 1 to 2 ) and you will pull it through the first one like you are doing a chain.

It will look odd at first and be twisted, keep going!

This is what skipping 1 space looks like

This is skipping 2 spaces.

YOu necklace will start to look like this as you get more chains.

So you want to crochet in the top part that looks like a ladder....

for this pattern you will chain skipping 1 to 2 spaces in between each chain. I chained roughly 300 or about 5 and a half feet. Then slip stitch into your first chain and cut the ribbon yarn. weave in the end and knot a few times then wrap the necklace into three or two loops as shown and place the flower pin on to secure the three ( or two ) strand necklace.

HOW EASY WAS THAT????

Do you like this pattern comment below and tell me what you think!

Here is one with 89 cent wedding flowers instead of a pin