tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771815839885843032024-03-15T18:10:19.346-07:00A Little Loopy, But I'm HookedFocusing on free crochet patterns and sharing my projects along the way.Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-70084465577052838032015-10-29T20:02:00.002-07:002015-10-29T20:10:01.304-07:00Bird nesting material ball<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jk0KOOE67kA/VjLc7_0FNJI/AAAAAAAABN8/-IcsY9dYwsk/s1600/20151029_154232_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jk0KOOE67kA/VjLc7_0FNJI/AAAAAAAABN8/-IcsY9dYwsk/s400/20151029_154232_.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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Supply the birds in your area with some nesting materials. You can encourage the birds to build their nests in or around your yard. Birds don't<i> really</i> need our help and can make due on their own. But in the suburban land of manicured lawns and well kept yards there may not be as many materials laying around for them as there are in more rural areas. So it cant hurt to help.<br />
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I was trying to figure out ideas for extra scrap yarn when I saw people online mentioning putting it out for birds. So I checked online to see how to go about doing that and I found some crochet/knit forums were discussing it and saying its probably not a good idea. That they could possibly get tangled in the yarn and basically saying don't do it. But I had heard of people doing this before so I looked into it further. I found multiple bird lovers or bird watching sites that were all for it. As long as the scraps are cut up into small bits that are <u>less than 2 inches in length</u> and natural fibers are best. The humane society even listed it on their website for nesting materials. So after seeing all of that I decided to go ahead with making one.<br />
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<b><u>Things you will need:</u></b><br />
Twine or yarn<br />
A balloon<br />
Glue (4 oz bottle or larger)<br />
Cornstarch<br />
Petroleum jelly (cooking spray can be used if you don't have it)<br />
Bird nesting material (see below)<br />
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Your bird nesting material can be made up of many different items that you probably have laying around. There are also some items that should not go in them. Here are some articles about birds nesting material, from <a href="http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/nest_building.html?referrer=https://www.google.com/#id=album-144&num=content-2737" target="_blank">The Humane Society</a> and <a href="http://www.wild-bird-watching.com/Nesting-Materials.html" target="_blank">Wild Bird Watching</a>. You can find premade bundles of nesting material but, why pay for that when you can DIY.<br />
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<u><b>Use:</b></u><br />
Twigs<br />
Grass or straw<br />
Pine needles<br />
Horse or pet hair (unless its been treated with a flea/tick ointment then no)<br />
Yarn (<u>pieces smaller than 2 inches</u>)<br />
Wool<br />
Small pieces of cloth (pieces smaller than 2 inches)<br />
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<b><u>Things to exclude:</u></b><br />
Dryer lint<br />
Animal or human hair that has been treated with chemicals (such as flea and tick repellent)<br />
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First things first.. You need to make your sphere. Blow up a balloon (do not blow it up all the way) so it is around the size you want your sphere. I made mine smaller than a cantaloupe but larger than a softball. I like that size personally. This will get messy and these spheres have so many decorative uses so... if you're gonna get messy make it worth it. I recommend making more than just the one (or two) you will need for your nesting feeder. Check out Pinterest for some ideas. Many people use them with old xmas lights around the yard and it looks gorgeous! Anyways, back to the current project (stop craft day dreaming!) Next up is mixing your glue and cornstarch<br />
Mix:<br />
4oz bottle of glue (elmers or generic is fine)<br />
1/2 cup corn starch (flour can be used as a substitute)<br />
1/4 cup water<br />
Mix those all up. The mix should be runny but still somewhat thick.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGgRpEiF9mo/VjLXe0oRIUI/AAAAAAAABNE/U8aYvVdI18g/s1600/20151026_111940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGgRpEiF9mo/VjLXe0oRIUI/AAAAAAAABNE/U8aYvVdI18g/s200/20151026_111940.jpg" width="112" /></a>Next, figure out a place to secure your balloon. You have to hang it. I poked a little hole in the end of my balloon so I could run some string through it to hang it.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-znba5rHeRDg/VjLXv4QMIII/AAAAAAAABNI/EFc0f4dxoRE/s1600/20151026_113640_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-znba5rHeRDg/VjLXv4QMIII/AAAAAAAABNI/EFc0f4dxoRE/s200/20151026_113640_.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
Then lather it up with petroleum jelly so everything wont get stuck to the balloon (cause that's no fun).<br />
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Prepare your twine by running it through the mix. You can either just let it run through the mix or cut the amount you think you will need and toss it all in the mix. Make sure not to get it tangled up because that will slow you down. I cut mine and tossed it in so I was sure it would get fully saturated.<br />
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You're ready to get started creating your sphere! Get ready for very messy hands! Have a damp rag nearby or a clear path to a sink because your hands will have the gluey mess all over them. Wrap the twine around the balloon. Remember you will have to fit your fingers in there and stuff thing inside so don't go crazy with wrapping. Once your done let that dry overnight.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mivn0LsO9kc/VjLYdWMTQiI/AAAAAAAABNQ/1JKft-F3ikM/s1600/20151026_134152_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="111" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mivn0LsO9kc/VjLYdWMTQiI/AAAAAAAABNQ/1JKft-F3ikM/s200/20151026_134152_.jpg" width="200" /></a>Come back to it the next day and pop that balloon. Little specks of dried glue may fly off when you pop it so be prepared for that. Personally, I'm a wuss and never just pop it, I do the wimpy move and cut a small slit and slowly let the air out. Either way works. But more power to you if you're tough and can handle to pop it without flinching or blinking. There may be little died pieces of the glue mix on the sphere just pick those off. If there is a lot grab an old toothbrush and gently rub them off.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cTktvjmhJx8/VjLYnui3GmI/AAAAAAAABNY/QZfSEeIdvx0/s1600/20151026_133811_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cTktvjmhJx8/VjLYnui3GmI/AAAAAAAABNY/QZfSEeIdvx0/s200/20151026_133811_.jpg" width="172" /></a><br />
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Now we are ready to fill it up! Gather your materials and gently stuff them into the sphere. Keep in mind that this is a functional yet decorative piece for your yard so don't just stuff it in there willy nillly. Take some time and make it look nice. I stuffed mine with pine needles, twigs, yarn scraps and some roving merino wool.<br />
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Now that you've got it all loaded up its time to go hang it. I took a piece of extra twine and slipped it through one of the parts on the sphere and tied it around a branch.<br />
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You're all done! Now sit back and admire your wonderful bird nesting material ball thingy. Isn't it lovely?!<br />
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I just love the look of it and knowing your helping those adorable little birds feels great!<br />
<br />Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-20270244318558744722014-02-06T12:58:00.002-08:002014-02-06T14:11:19.964-08:00Baby shampoo isnt just for babies!! Why I love baby shampoo..Ohh baby shampoo, how I love you so. I'm glad I sparked your interest. Baby shampoo is the only shampoo I use, I love it. Let me explain why..<br />
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I don't wash my hair everyday (you're not really supposed to) and when you go 2-3 days without washing your hair it gets a little oily. You have that oily buildup so what do we as women do? Spray dry shampoo on it and add to the gunk on our head. Genius right? So when you finally decide that you are gross and you need to wash your hair you must lather rinse and repeat to get that oil and dry shampoo out of your hair. Well, if you're like me you will notice that it still looks a big gunky. Even after washing twice.<br />
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There would be many days that 'first day hair' looked like 'second day hair' which is so frustrating. I'm clean. Why don't I look it?! Yuck!<br />
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Well I decided to turn to my good friend Google for advice. I found many salon products meant to get rid of the oils and buildup left in your hair due to hair spray or dry shampoo. I thought, great! I'll just get one of those, easy. Well, those products cost about $30. If you're like me than that is not something I'm willing to do. Maybe if it was $20, but $30, that's a big hell no. So I turned to my friend Google again for advice. I found a few forums of women claiming that baby shampoo provided the same benefits as those expensive build up busting salon shampoos. Voila! I found my answer! So I went down to CVS and picked up a bottle for around $5. Gotta love that price!<br />
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Immediately after the first wash I felt a difference in my hair. I had so much volume, I'm guessing because that gunk wasn't holding it down. It was bouncy and I just couldn't help but touch it all day. At first when I started using baby shampoo it was only every other time I washed it. Going between my regular shampoo and the baby one. But it didn't take long before I was just using the baby shampoo every time. About 7 bottles later and I'm still using it!<br />
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I recommended it to friends and family. My mom swapped her expensive salon shampoo for it and hasn't looked back. She gets her hair dyed so I warned her that it may not be safe for colored hair. But she and I haven't noticed a difference with it pulling the color out or making it fade.<br />
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Also, my mom swears by washing her face with shampoo. Super weird, I know. But she does look really young for her age so I'm not gonna call her crazy. But anyways, I've started doing it too since its no tears shampoo. Might as well.I have really sensitive skin so for me it was like a light bulb went off in my head. If its made for a baby, chances are its gentle enough to use on my face. Sure enough, it doesn't irritate the sensitive skin around my eyes at all!! So if you have a sensitive face, try it out.<br />
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If you have a dry scalp or are prone to dandruff im not sure how well this will work for you. You could add a couple drops or tea tree oil to the shampoo and that will moisturize your scalp. The do make a 'moisturizing baby shampoo' I have yet to try it but I'm sure that would be perfect for anyone with a dry scalp but oily hair.<br />
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I hope that you give it a try. Its only $5 and is a great shampoo to have around when you end up with too much product or oil in your hair. Even if you don't use it everyday it comes in handy. Say you have a night out and used a ton of hairspray, it will get it out no problem! Gotta love it! Now go try it! :)<br />
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<br />Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-25346579084557153292013-03-22T12:46:00.005-07:002015-08-24T15:52:43.920-07:00Honey & Cinnamon Hair Mask. Lighten and Condition!Hey all! It's been forever since I've posted anything. Life has been crazy and yada, yada, ya. This is totally not crochet related but I just had to share it! Anyways let's get to the point.<br />
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Dirty dishwater blondes this is for you. Brunettes can add some color too.<br />
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So about 2 years ago I decided to swear off hair dye forever (well probably not forever but you get what I mean) so I did one last round of dye and did an ombre thing to my hair so I could just let my roots grow out and rock that look. But recently I have gotten really bored with my hair and want a change so bad. But I refuse to dye it. So I went to my good friend Google and searched for some natural ways to lighten your hair.<br />
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Sure enough I found this remedy that not only lightens your hair but conditions it and makes it smell delicious all from stuff that you may have lying around in your home. To good to be true right? I was a bit skeptical but I figured why not give it a try and I was amazed with the results! <br />
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Mind you my hair is a dirty blonde and takes well to coloring of any kind. When I used to bleach it, it would take very quickly so depending on your hair you nay not are results for just one use. My research online lead me to believe that I wouldn't really see any results after just one use, but I did. So it all depends on your hair.<br />
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<u><b>The science behind it: </b></u><br />
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I'm not going to get super technical. You can Google it and find out more if you would like. Basically, honey contains a small amount of peroxide. Mixing it with the cinnamon boosts the lightening process and helps add the golden tones. Honey is a great conditioner. It locks in the moisture.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>What you need: </b></u></span><br />
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<b>Raw honey</b> - Don't just use the kind from the bear bottle. Apparently it is important to use the raw kind. Once I went to make this mixture I found that raw honey is much more thick than the other kind of honey which helps keep it thick and creamy. They sell raw honey at any health food store or probably even the regular grocery store.<br />
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<b>Ground cinnamon</b> - You might as well buy the big container of it because you want you use quite a bit of it.<br />
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<b>Conditioner</b> - Just your regular conditioner.<br />
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<b>Plastic bag or saran wrap</b> - To wrap around your head after you apply it.<br />
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<b>Bandana</b> - Not crucial but helpful to wrap around your head you catch any drips.<br />
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I didn't measure when I mixed it all together, just eyeball it. How much
you need depends on how thick and long your hair is. Try to go for
equal parts honey and conditioner.<br />
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<u>Modifications:</u><br />
<u> </u>So you can make changes to this mixture. I found a few different "recipes" shall we call them..? I didn't try any of these...yet.<br />
Swap the conditioner for olive oil<br />
Add a little bit of lemon juice<br />
Not even using cinnamon, just raw honey and olive oil<br />
Adding distilled water <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Mix it up:</b></u></span><br />
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You need at least 3 tablespoons of cinnamon. I used probably about 4 or 5 though. Scoop that up and put it in a bowl. (If you have very sensitive skin go easy on the cinnamon because it may burn a tiny bit, I didn't notice it personally)<br />
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Take a few spoonfuls of honey and pop it into the bowl. Work it around with a spoon to get it softened up and mixed with the cinnamon. If it's really cold where you are run a blow dryer on it for a minute and that will help soften it.<br />
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Add some conditioner. Roughly equal to the amount of honey you used. Stir it all up.<br />
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You <b>must let it sit for at least 30 minutes</b>. The explanation of why it technical. But apparently it's important. Your hair must be damp when you apply it so perhaps take a shower to pass the time..? The smell of honey and cinnamon made me hungry so I munched :)<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Ready, set, go: </b></u></span><br />
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This WILL be messy. You have been warned.<br />
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Your hair must be clean (no product) and damp. Not sopping wet but not super dry.
Brush through your hair and separate it into 2 or 3 parts depending on how thick your hair is you may need more.<br />
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Dip your hands into that ooey-gooey delicious smelling mess and slather it on. Make sure you're generous with it and really cover your hair.
After you're done icing your head twist your hair up in a bun. Wrap the bag or saran wrap around it to keep the mess contained. If you have a bandana roll it up and wrap it around so it will catch any pesky drips that try to roll down your neck.<br />
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<b>Now we wait.</b> I slept with it on which is what I recommend. I put it on a bit before bed since I never actually get 8 hours of sleep. Take a towel and lay it over your pillow to avoid your pillowcase getting ruined. I shift a lot in my sleep so when I woke up my bag and bandana were a bit askew so I was grateful that I thought to lay down the towel. If you aren't planning on sleeping with it on then leave it on for <u>at least</u> 6 hours.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Lather, rinse, repeat:</u></b></span><br />
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You've done your time and now you get to rinse it out. When you go to wash it be prepared because it's going to take a lot of washing. The funny thing is, initially I thought, honey is so sticky it must be so hard to get out of your hair. But no, it was the cinnamon that really hung on there.<br />
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Rinse it well, very well. Then start shampooing. What I did was wash thoroughly twice then put some conditioner on it so I could comb through it a bit. Rinsed, shampooed again and conditioned. Inspect it to make sure you don't see any specks of cinnamon.<br />
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Take a deep breath and soak in that lovely smell. Yup, that's coming from you. Voila!<br />
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Like I said, you may or may not see a difference from just one use. You need to do this multiple times for it to really take effect. I plan on doing it again in a week or so. But for now I just can't get enough of how soft it feels and how great it smells! <br />
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<b>Enjoy!!!</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If you love inexpensive beauty tricks be sure to check out <a href="http://alittleloopybutimhooked.blogspot.com/2014/02/baby-shampoo-isnt-just-for-babies-why-i.html?m=1" target="_blank">why I love baby shampoo</a>!</span></b><br />
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<br />Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com53tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-40281398355217084162012-05-22T13:21:00.000-07:002014-02-06T12:04:58.129-08:00Seed Stitch Camera Case<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i7oGWa6VVuQ/T7tXralftzI/AAAAAAAAATY/pkFzhR4DEm8/s1600/IMG01449-20120522-0111_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i7oGWa6VVuQ/T7tXralftzI/AAAAAAAAATY/pkFzhR4DEm8/s400/IMG01449-20120522-0111_.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the texture of the seed stitch!</td></tr>
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This case is designed to fit a digital camera, you can very easily add onto the chain to make it larger if needed. It uses "seed stitch" so it has a great texture! <br />
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My camera is about 4 inches wide x 2 1/2 inches tall x about 3/4 of an inch thick. I know not all cameras are the same exact size so I left as little extra room for different sizes to still fit comfortably.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Seed Stitch Camera Case</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/seed-stitch-camera-case" target="_blank">Ravelry page for this case - add it to your library!</a> </b></span><br />
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G/4.25mm hook<br />
not sure exactly how much yarn it used but it was not much at all, maybe 75 yards or so <br />
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st = stitch<br />
sts= stitches<br />
ch = chain <br />
sl st= slip st<br />
sc = single crochet<br />
dc = double crochet <br />
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The case is comes out to be 5 inches wide and 3 1/2 inches tall.<br />
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You can add or decrease length by chaining any odd number<br />
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With color A<br />
chain 19 (hold it up to your camera and make sure this length will work)<br />
sc in 2nd ch from the hook, * dc in next st, sc in next st * dc in the last st<br />
ch 1, sc in the first st, * dc in the next st, sc in the next st * dc in the last st<br />
Repeat last row until piece measures 8 inches long<br />
ch 1, sc in the first st... repeat the alternating dc and sc for the next 7 stitches (4 sc, 4 dc) , ch 2 and skip 2 sts, sc in the next st, dc in next st- repeat until the end of row (IF you altered the number of chains than the stitch count will not add up, the button hole must be centered so for every 2 that you added onto the chain amount add 1 st onto each side of the ch 2)<br />
ch 1, sc in the first st, * dc in the next st, sc in the next st * dc in the last st<br />
Repeat the last row 3 more times<br />
Fasten off with color A <br />
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Switch to color B<br />
Attach the yarn into the very first st of project, where the starting tail is<br />
sl st around in each st, when you work down the sides (the side where you turned) you do not work into the individual stitches, you work into the space ....seen in picture below<br />
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After you finish the sl st border you are ready to sew up the sides<br />
It will look like this....<br />
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Flip it over so the wrong side is facing up and fold the bottom up <br />
Sew up sides with color A<br />
when seaming up the sides there are 2 loops and you want to go into the "inner" loop on each st<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-acbHVm8GzVE/T7s0Pf573RI/AAAAAAAAAS0/xMgU121iw_4/s1600/IMG01426-20120521-2249_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-acbHVm8GzVE/T7s0Pf573RI/AAAAAAAAAS0/xMgU121iw_4/s320/IMG01426-20120521-2249_.jpg" height="131" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Attach the button, double check to make sure that it will line up properly<br />
Weave in the ends and you're done! :)<br />
<br />Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-20181955546376442882012-05-19T21:54:00.002-07:002014-02-06T12:04:24.107-08:00Sweet and Simple Clutch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9o5JUbrWn0c/T7hynd-tQEI/AAAAAAAAASQ/OoaMQgLHO8g/s1600/IMG01383-20120519-2058_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9o5JUbrWn0c/T7hynd-tQEI/AAAAAAAAASQ/OoaMQgLHO8g/s400/IMG01383-20120519-2058_.jpg" height="241" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This is a super easy clutch, it works up pretty fast. A great instant gratification project! You can use 2 colors (like I did) or just do the whole purse one single color, whatever you prefer. Enjoy! :)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Sweet and Simple Clutch</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sweet-and-simple-clutch" target="_blank">Ravelry page for this clutch - add it to your library!</a></span> </span><br />
<br />
G hook<br />
Worsted weight yarn, not sure how much I used but it wasnt much..maybe about 100 yards <br />
<br />
st = stitch<br />
sts = stitches<br />
ch = chain <br />
sc = single crochet<br />
hdc = half double crochet<br />
dc = double crochet<br />
<br />
ch 37, hdc in the 3rd ch from the hook and in ea ch ch st across (ch 2 counts as hdc, 36 hdc)<br />
<br />
ch 2 (counts as hdc), sc in next st (not the very first st) and in each st across, the very last st will be into the 2nd ch of the previous row beginning ch 2 (36 hdc)<br />
<br />
repeat the last row until piece measures about 9 inches <br />
<br />
switch to "flap" color... (you don't have to use 2 colors but I think the contrast makes the design pop)<br />
<br />
ch 1, sc in very first st and each st across (36 sc)<br />
<br />
ch1, sc in first st and in next st, *ch 3 skip 2 sts and sc in the next st, ch 6 skip 4 sts and sc in the next st, ch 3 skip 2 sts and sc in the next st *repeat 3 times sc in the last st<br />
<br />
ch 2, hdc in next st (not very first st), ch 1 and sc into the ch-3 space, * work 9 dc into the ch-6 space, sc into the ch-3 space, ch 3 and then sc into the next ch-3 space *repeat 2 times, work 9 dc into the ch-6 space, sc into the ch-3 space, hdc in the last 2 sts<br />
<br />
ch 1, sc in the first st and in next st, * ch 5 and count over to the 4th dc (in the set of 9) and sc into the top of that 4th dc, sc into the top of the next 2 dc, ch 5 and work 2 sc into the ch-3 space *repeat 2 times, ch 5 and count over to the 4th dc (in the set of 9) and sc into the top of that 4th dc, sc into the top of the next 2 dc, ch 5 and skip over 4 sts and sc in the next st, sc in the last st<br />
<br />
ch 3, dc in the next st (not the very first st), ch 3 and sc into the ch-5 space, * ch 3 and skip over the next st(1st sc) sc into the 2nd sc(in the set of 3), ch 3 and sc into the ch-5 space, ch 6 and sc into the next ch-5 space *repeat 2 times, ch 3 and skip over the next st(1st sc) sc into the 2nd sc(in the set of 3), ch 3 and sc into the ch-5 space, ch 3 and dc in the next st, dc in the last st<br />
<br />
ch 3 , dc in next st (not the very first st), work 4 dc into the ch-3 space, * sc into the next ch-3 space, <u>ch 3</u> and sc into the next ch-3 space, work 9 dc into the ch-6 space *repeat 2 times<b>(if you are using a large button on the <u>2nd time you work this </u>you want to swap the ch 3 for a ch 4, if you are using a very small button than you want to swap it for a ch 2) </b>, sc into the next ch-3 space, ch 3 and sc into the next ch-3 space, work 4 dc into the last ch-3 space, dc in the last 2 sts<br />
<br />
Attach the sides together with whatever method you prefer, I simply whip stitched the sides and then flipped it inside out to hide the seams. When you attach the sides you want to leave one row untouched, basically leave one row that is not stitches together.<br />
<br />
Weave in the ends and attach the button<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-czpFPB6qK4Q/T7hzVoXV7xI/AAAAAAAAASg/Sk06mCx3gsI/s1600/IMG01385-20120519-2058_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-czpFPB6qK4Q/T7hzVoXV7xI/AAAAAAAAASg/Sk06mCx3gsI/s400/IMG01385-20120519-2058_.jpg" height="245" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K3K-2sUqLT8/T7hzBPmQEtI/AAAAAAAAASY/5MBZfRoTWrE/s1600/IMG01386-20120519-2059_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K3K-2sUqLT8/T7hzBPmQEtI/AAAAAAAAASY/5MBZfRoTWrE/s320/IMG01386-20120519-2059_.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">what it looks like with the "flap" open</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-2569406437284023112012-05-15T18:17:00.003-07:002016-03-11T08:36:25.491-08:00Dots and Dashes Bolero/Shrug<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6VuEUGUm-sA/T7L92bJuDBI/AAAAAAAAARk/r-HQhwV0kzE/s1600/CIMG8478_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6VuEUGUm-sA/T7L92bJuDBI/AAAAAAAAARk/r-HQhwV0kzE/s400/CIMG8478_.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This is a super easy bolero/shrug that<b> <span style="font-size: large;">you can adjust to fit any size</span></b><span style="font-size: large;">!</span> I love figuring out simple, fast and most of all easy patterns so I'm so excited to share this with you all! It is full of eyelets so it is light and airy, I love eyelets and I keep trying to figure out more fun ways to use them. <br />
<br />
<b><u>Measuring:</u></b><br />
<br />
Figure out how far down your arm you want the shrug to go, measure from
that spot across your shoulders to the same spot on your other arm. That
is how wide you need to make your rectangle. <br />
Measure around your arm in that same spot, this will be how tall to make the rectangle. You may want to add a half inch for comfort and stretch. If your yarn is not one that gives easily or stretches than you may want to add 1 inch.<br />
<br />
<b>If you follow this pattern exactly than your piece will be about 25 inches long and fit a<u> teen or petite/small woman (around 100 lbs or less)</u>. But you can make it in any size with adjustments.</b><br />
<b>To adjust the size</b> you want the number of chains to be a multiple of 4, then add 5 to that amount. The great thing about this pattern is its so easy to adjust to any size!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Dots and Dashes Bolero/Shrug</span></b></u><br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/dots-and-dashes-bolero---shrug" target="_blank">Ravelry page for his bolero - add it to your library!</a><br />
<br />
<br />
G/6 4.25mm Hook<br />
Worsted weight yarn<br />
I used about about 225-275 yards but depending on how large or small you are making it will change exactly how much yarn you use<br />
<br />
st = stitch<br />
sts = stitches <br />
ch = chain<br />
sl st = slip stitch<br />
sc = single crochet<br />
hdc = half double crochet<br />
dc = double crochet<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Notes:</b><br />
<b>ch 3 counts as dc so the last stitch on rows will be into the 3rd chain / ch 2 counts as first hdc so the last stitch on rows will be into the 2nd ch</b><br />
<b>do not work the first stitch into the turning chain stitch</b><br />
<b>do not work your chains for the space tightly because you will have to work a stitch into the in the next row</b><br />
<br />
Chain 101 (this is MY starting chain size, yours may be different for size adjustments)<br />
<br />
Row 1: dc in 4th ch from the hook, dc in each ch across<br />
<br />
Row 2: ch 3, dc in next st (not very first st/same st as ch but the next st), * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in next st * dc in the last st, turn<br />
<br />
Row 3: ch 3, dc in each st across (don't dc into the very first st), turn<br />
<br />
Row 4: ch 2, hdc in next st (not very first st/same st as ch but the next st), * ch 3 skip 3 sts, hdc in next st * hdc in the last st, turn<br />
<br />
Row 5: ch 3, dc in each st across (don't dc into the very first st), turn<br />
<br />
Repeat rows 2-5 until piece reaches height needed according to your measurements but <u>you want row 2 & 3 to be the last rows worked! Don't end with row 4 & 5 otherwise when you go to work the band your pattern won't match up.</u><br />
<br />
You want to fasten off but leave a long tail to sew the sleeves, go ahead and weave in the end from the very beginning to get it out of your way.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NccHzFKYcYc/T7Nf4DdCSvI/AAAAAAAAAR4/cWypwMTASL8/s1600/IMG01175-20120426-1437_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NccHzFKYcYc/T7Nf4DdCSvI/AAAAAAAAAR4/cWypwMTASL8/s200/IMG01175-20120426-1437_.jpg" width="195" /></a>I <i>suggest</i> sewing together 16 stitches inward for each sleeve <b>but you can adjust that easily if needed for size</b> but just <u>make sure that you work in even numbers for the stitch count! Please adjust it if needed instead of completing it and commenting that it was too tight. I want you to love your project! Only do 12 if that seems more comfortable. It all depends on your fit and how far down your arm you measured from. </u><br />
<br />
Count 16 stitches (or less) starting at the corner (corner counts as the first stitch) and mark the 17th stitch, do the same for all the edges. Sew together those 16 stitches and stop at the marked 17th stitch. Attach yarn to the other end and join the other 16 stitches to form the other sleeve.<br />
<br />
It should look like the picture on the right...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7nDiXn74Cd0/T5nJpwGKVCI/AAAAAAAAAP4/DutfEqD-H3s/s1600/IMG01178-20120426-1452_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="163" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7nDiXn74Cd0/T5nJpwGKVCI/AAAAAAAAAP4/DutfEqD-H3s/s200/IMG01178-20120426-1452_.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
Attach the yarn into the marked stitch (it doesn't really matter exactly which one you start from) you will now be working in rounds. It's best to keep the markers in the stitches for the very first round so you don't accidentally
work into the stitches right next to it that you used to join/sew the sides.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
You will be working the same pattern as before but since you will be working in rounds so it starts and ends slightly different than working in rows. But you still<u> do not work into the very first st</u>.<br />
<br />
<br />
Round 1: hdc into the same st that you attached the yarn into, * ch 3 skip 3 sts, hdc in the next st * at the end of the round sl st into the top of the first hdc to join (when you get to the parts where you joined make sure you don't count the stitches that were used to join...go from one marker to the next..like in the picture above)<br />
<br />
Round 2: Ch 3, dc in each st around, sl st into the 3rd ch of beginning ch 3 to join<br />
<br />
Round 3: ch 4, skip 1 st, * dc in the next st, ch 1 skip 1 st * sl st into the 3rd ch of beginning ch to join<br />
<br />
Round 4: ch 3, dc in each st around, sl st into 3rd ch of beginning ch to join<br />
<br />
Round 5: ch 5, skip 3 sts, * hdc in the next st, ch 3 sip 3 sts * sl st into the 2nd ch of beginning ch to join<br />
<br />
Repeat rows 2-4<br />
<br />
Ch 2, hdc in each st around, sl st to join<br />
<br />
ch 1, sc in each st around, sl st to join (you could also work a sl st border instead if you prefer)<br />
<br />
Weave in the ends<br />
<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u_Cd_sc_yAA/T7L_I9F-2lI/AAAAAAAAARs/SO0FLxBjVq8/s1600/CIMG8475_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u_Cd_sc_yAA/T7L_I9F-2lI/AAAAAAAAARs/SO0FLxBjVq8/s400/CIMG8475_.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-22763290601431469602012-04-27T13:31:00.003-07:002014-02-06T12:03:10.158-08:00Cute Little Flower SquareHeavily inspired by the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/flower-square-2" target="_blank">Flower Square by Beata Basik</a> but wanting a smaller square with less holes I decided why not come up with my own. I made a mash up of the flower square by taking the idea of the flower square but using a smaller flower and changing it up a bit. Since my intentions are to use this square for purses/clutches I wanted to make sure it didn't have a bunch of holes where you would be able to see the lining.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X4O-1FVnGI8/T5sAygKgmvI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/Clgvf9suB4Q/s1600/IMG01208-20120427-1306_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X4O-1FVnGI8/T5sAygKgmvI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/Clgvf9suB4Q/s400/IMG01208-20120427-1306_.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
For my squares I used 3 colors, center, petals and base. You don't have to use a different color for the center but included in the pattern is when to do the color changes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Cute Little Flower Square</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cute-little-flower-square" target="_blank">Ravelry Page for this Cute Little Flower Square - Add it to your library!</a> </b></span><br />
<br />
Size - about 2 1/2 inches, you can go up a hook size for a slightly larger square<br />
<br />
H hook<br />
Worsted weight yarn <br />
<br />
US terms:<br />
ch = chain<br />
sl st = slip stitch<br />
sc = single crochet<br />
dc = double crochet <br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hh2w5_HaMd4/T5oMJ1cwIKI/AAAAAAAAAQE/bqm-BVWaLag/s1600/IMG01190-20120426-1949%281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hh2w5_HaMd4/T5oMJ1cwIKI/AAAAAAAAAQE/bqm-BVWaLag/s200/IMG01190-20120426-1949%281.jpg" height="112" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>post stitches</b> = the "bottom" of the stitch, the part that is wrapped around the previous row.<br />
If you bend the petal it tends to make it a bit easier to get your hook into those stitches<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Do not work the dc for the petals tightly!! You will get frustrated later when you have to work into the post stitches of the dc!</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Make an adjustable/"magic" ring<br />
<br />
Round 1: ch 1, and work 4 sc into the ring sl st into first sc to join<br />
<br />
If you want the center a different color than switch to the petal color now<br />
<br />
Round 2: working into the same st as join * ch 1, 3 dc, ch 1, sl st, then sc into the next st * on the last petal after you work the sl st go to the next step (5 petals)<br />
<br />
You will now be working <b>behind the petals</b> into the post stitches... bend the petal down so you can get to the post stitches<br />
Round 3: * sc into the post stitch of the first dc (in the set of 3) on the next petal, ch 2, sc in the last (3rd) dc on the same petal * on the last petal after you worked sc into the 3rd dc sl st into the ch 2 space on the next petal to join (5 ch 2 spaces)<br />
<br />
Round 4: * ch 1, 4 dc, ch 1, sl st, then sc in the next ch space * after you sl st into the last petal...(5 petals)<br />
<br />
You now want to switch to your base color <br />
<br />
Working <b>behind the petals</b> into the post stitches<br />
Round 5: sc into the post stitch of each of the 4 dc on each petal, sl st into first sc to join (20 sc)<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>working in <u>just the front loop</u> on each st</b><br />
Round 6: ch 1, sc into the same st, sc into the next st, * 4 sc in the next, sc in the next 4 sts * sc into the last st, sl st into the first sc to join<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m4O1CtEZkKk/T5sB0vzRyhI/AAAAAAAAAQg/8LVhoPLcaRw/s1600/IMG01214-20120427-1308_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m4O1CtEZkKk/T5sB0vzRyhI/AAAAAAAAAQg/8LVhoPLcaRw/s200/IMG01214-20120427-1308_.jpg" height="200" width="194" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8H58hHKkLXc/T5sBntXzDbI/AAAAAAAAAQY/iadRlER0ck8/s1600/IMG01213-20120427-1308_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8H58hHKkLXc/T5sBntXzDbI/AAAAAAAAAQY/iadRlER0ck8/s200/IMG01213-20120427-1308_.jpg" height="180" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br />
You're done!<br />
<br />
I would love to hear/see the ways you use this little square so please share! :)<br />
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<br />
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FYI: I'm working on a purse that uses these squares by attaching 4 of them together to make a big square full of flowers (like in the picture below)......so be sure to check back in the next few weeks for that pattern :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMxfwDyJr7U/T5sMShducLI/AAAAAAAAAQs/Lvjj8WQeYIc/s1600/IMG01218-20120427-1409_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMxfwDyJr7U/T5sMShducLI/AAAAAAAAAQs/Lvjj8WQeYIc/s200/IMG01218-20120427-1409_.jpg" height="200" width="173" /></a></div>
Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-86951716655103731522012-04-15T16:59:00.001-07:002014-02-06T12:02:01.579-08:00Fat Owl BagIt's a crocodile owl! <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4LpKelDVnX8/T4teNu-wnXI/AAAAAAAAAOU/wsAIe8iTNsI/s1600/CIMG8377_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4LpKelDVnX8/T4teNu-wnXI/AAAAAAAAAOU/wsAIe8iTNsI/s320/CIMG8377_.jpg" height="320" width="242" /></a></div>
I love the look of the crocodile stitch and using it has been on my to do list for a while. It comes out really thick so I know that it wouldn't be good for any spring or summertime garments so I got to thinking how I could use this awesome stitch on an accessory. I have seen the crocodile stitch used on some really cool pieces but unfortunately (with a few exceptions) they are patterns that you have to buy. I love owls, anything with owls on it always catches my eye. I've had the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crocodile-stitch-owl" target="_blank">Crocodile Stitch Owl</a> in my Ravelry library for a while as inspiration since it's a pattern that you have to buy. I love the idea of the scales (as I call them) to be used as feathers....genius!<br />
<br />
So as I usually do I sat down with some paper a pen and a few inspirational pictures and got to figuring out how I could make a purse that looks like an owl out of this stitch. It was more difficult than I had imagined and I felt like giving up but when I set my mind to something I'm not gonna stop. I made it up and pulled it all out way too many times to count, I could have probably made 5 purses in the time I wasted frogging this project over and over...but it was worth it in the end when it all started working the way I wanted it to.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tjxJAG_0Ni8/T4tfHrETtcI/AAAAAAAAAOc/Yn8PbHWOX0I/s1600/CIMG8376_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tjxJAG_0Ni8/T4tfHrETtcI/AAAAAAAAAOc/Yn8PbHWOX0I/s320/CIMG8376_.jpg" height="320" width="264" /></a></div>
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This purse uses the crocodile stitch, if you are not familiar with this stitch and have never worked it before than take a moment and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MMPLqDMUuA" target="_blank">watch this video</a> I also found <a href="http://lostandfoundlane.blogspot.com/p/croc-stitch-easy-way.html" target="_blank">this picture tutorial</a> very helpful. Work up a strip, take it apart and work it up again, practice makes perfect. It will save you a lot frustration later down the road when you are working up the pattern and saying wtf does she mean?! There is not much worse than having to frog rows on your piece because you realized you made a mistake it the first few rows. I cannot stress enough that you need to know how to do the crocodile stitch before you start this pattern....you will get very lost and confused if not.<br />
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<br />
I noticed that while working this up there are many times where if you just stopped at that point you could make something else, when it is still flat I realized that it would make a really really cool hotpad! I'm going to get some cotton yarn and make one! Also once it starts to become a bowl I realized that it would make a cool bowl for yarn balls or other random nick-knacks. Especially if you use a stiffer yarn (like cotton) it would make a great bowl! I wrote in into the pattern where you would want to stop working the
steps, for the hotpad but if you wish to make a bowl you have to decide where you would want to stop. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>Fat Owl Bag</b></u></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/fat-owl-bag" target="_blank">Add the Fat Owl Bag to your Ravelry library</a><br />
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<b>Terms:</b><br />
<br />
<b>Scale: </b><br />
Since its called the crocodile stitch because it looks like scales I'm going to refer to them as a scale. The scale is 10<b> </b>dc around the 2 dc (5 dc around each dc)<br />
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<b>Shell:</b><br />
A shell is made of 5 dc that are all worked into 1 stitch<br />
<br />
st = stitch<br />
sts = stitches <br />
ch = chain<br />
sl st = slip stitch <br />
sc = single crochet<br />
dc = double crochet<br />
sc2tog = single crochet decrease <br />
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<br />
<b>Materials:</b><br />
Approx. 460 yards of medium worsted weight yarn - recommend using cotton or a stiff acrylic like Red Heart<br />
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H hook and medium/worsted weight yarn (I used Red Heart Super Saver, cotton work would great also)<br />
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<b>Size of purse:</b><br />
12 inches circumference at the widest point/ 24 inches around<br />
Band at the top is 6 inches circumference/ 18 inches around<br />
10-11 inches tall<br />
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Make an adjustable ring<br />
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Round 1: 10 hdc into the ring, sl st to join<br />
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Round 2: Ch 3, dc into same st, * ch 2, 2 dc in next st * sl st into the 3rd chain of starting chain to join<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TOTk0onthUk/T4auTav6pBI/AAAAAAAAANU/DVwpPmhHSe8/s1600/CIMG8318_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TOTk0onthUk/T4auTav6pBI/AAAAAAAAANU/DVwpPmhHSe8/s200/CIMG8318_.jpg" height="167" width="200" /></a><br />
Round 3: Ch 1, work a scale into the first 2 dc, * skip over the next set of 2 dc , work a scale into the next set of 2 dc * don't join (5 scales)<br />
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Round 4: Ch 1, * 2 dc in the chain space between the scale and the 2 dc, ch 2 work 2 dc into the other chain space between the scale and dc, ch 2, dc into the hole in center of the scale, ch 2 * Sl st into the top of the last dc in the last scale to join.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tYSX97eLc_Q/T4adlImcG1I/AAAAAAAAANM/TAdzY3_OXAE/s1600/CIMG8324_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tYSX97eLc_Q/T4adlImcG1I/AAAAAAAAANM/TAdzY3_OXAE/s200/CIMG8324_.jpg" height="135" width="200" /></a><br />
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<b>When you dc into the space between the scale and 2 dc:</b> On the very first one in the round it will be very easy to see but as you go around you will have to pull back the scales a little bit so you can get to the chain spaces and stitches behind the scales...they hide back there.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DMRFY2IgRuI/T4c_coXC50I/AAAAAAAAAN8/qAUlQ-qHF1Y/s1600/CIMG8328_.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DMRFY2IgRuI/T4c_coXC50I/AAAAAAAAAN8/qAUlQ-qHF1Y/s200/CIMG8328_.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><br />
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<b>Far chain space: </b>when I use the phrase far chain space I'm referring to the chain space furthest from your hook, <u>not</u> the closest one to where your working but the one on the other side of the 2 dc worked in the previous round<br />
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Round 5: Ch 1, * work a scale in the 2 dc, skip the next 2 dc * sl st into the far chain space <u>not</u> the closest one to where your working or to your hook but the one on the other side of the 2 dc worked in the previous round (7 scales) <br />
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Round 6: Ch 3, dc into that same space, * ch 2, 2 dc into the center of the next scale, ch 2, 2 dc in the chain space, ch 2, 2 dc in the next chain space * at the end of round ch 2 and sl st into the 3rd chain of starting chain to join<br />
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After this point you will no longer be working a sl st to join at the end of a round, instead you will just keep continuing spiraling up <br />
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Round 7: Ch 1, * work a scale into the set of 2 dc, skip the next set of 2 dc * at the end of round work 2 dc into the far chain space <u>not</u> the closest one to where your working and to your hook but the one on the other side of the 2 dc worked in the previous round. (10 scales)<br />
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Round 8: * Ch 2, 2 dc in the center of the scale, ch 2, 2 dc in the chain space, ch 2, 2 dc in the chain space * at the end of round stop after you have worked the 2 dc into the last scale<br />
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Round 9: * Work a scale in the 2 dc, skip the next 2 dc * at the end of round ch 2 and then work 2 dc the far chain space - <u>not</u> the closest one to where your working and to your hook but the one on the other side of the 2 dc worked in the previous round (14 scales-only 14 scales will be worked in each round here and throughout)<br />
- <b>-<u>IF</u> </b>you don't work the last 2 dc into the chain space and sl st , join and fasten off at this point you would have yourself an awesome hotpad!!! Hmm.......idea! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dl-lLOxy5js/T4dDGNy8R9I/AAAAAAAAAOE/f639zcLfCwk/s1600/CIMG8345_" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dl-lLOxy5js/T4dDGNy8R9I/AAAAAAAAAOE/f639zcLfCwk/s200/CIMG8345_" height="132" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Space in between the 2 dc from the previous round: </u>You will work 2 dc into the space in between the 2 dc from the previous round. </b>Instead of working in the chain spaces like you did on every other
round and skipping over the 2 dc you will be working in between those 2 dc. Work the 2 dc like this now and throughout the pattern unless otherwise specified.<br />
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<u></u>Round 10: * 2 dc into the center of the scale, 2 dc in the space between the 2 dc from the previous round... instead
of working in the chain spaces like you did on every other round and
skipping over the 2 dc you will be work into the space between the 2 dc * at the end of round after you have worked 2 dc in to the center of the last scale stop<br />
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Round 11: * Work a scale into the 2 dc, skip the next 2 dc * stop after you work the last scale <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jhPgFcQNFbg/T4gQNAp5QqI/AAAAAAAAAOM/hSbkg9n6b_M/s1600/CIMG8362_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jhPgFcQNFbg/T4gQNAp5QqI/AAAAAAAAAOM/hSbkg9n6b_M/s320/CIMG8362_.jpg" height="251" width="320" /></a>On the rounds that you set up for the scales...the rounds that you work sets of 2 dc...the very last 2 dc that you will work in space between the 2 dc from the previous round it will be in the "hiding" 2 dc. You may have to move the scales to get to it..it will be below and behind them. It will be a little lower but once you work the 2 dc into it, it will bring it up to the same level as the other stitches<br />
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On the rounds that you work the scales the very last scale will go there (blue arrow)<br />
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<b><u>It will be like this throughout the pattern!!!! You are not stopping rounds you are spiraling upward</u> </b><br />
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Round 12: * 2 dc into the center of the next scale, 2 dc in the space between the 2 dc from the previous round *<br />
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Round 13: Skip over the first set of 2 dc(the one that was worked into the scale) and * work a scale into the next set of 2 dc, skip the next 2 dc * <br />
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Round 14: * Ch 1, work 2 dc into the center of the next scale, ch 1, 2 dc into
the space between the 2 dc from the previous round *<br />
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Round 15: Skip over the first set of 2 dc(the one that was worked into the scale)
and * work a scale into the next set of 2 dc, skip the next 2 dc * <br />
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Round 16: * Ch 2, <u><b>4 dc</b></u><b> </b>in the center of the next scale,ch 2, 2 dc into
the space between the 2 dc from the previous round * <br />
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Round 17: Ch 2, Skip over the first set of 4 dc(the one that was worked into the scale)
and * work a scale into the next set of 2 dc, skip the set of 4 dc * <br />
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Round 18: * Ch 2, <u><b>4 dc</b></u><b> </b>in the center of the next scale,ch 2, 2 dc into
the space between the 2nd and 3rd dc (in the set of 4) from the previous round * <br />
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Round 19: Ch 2, Skip over the first set of 4 dc(the one that was worked into the scale)
and * work a scale into the next set of 2 dc, skip the set of 4 dc * <br />
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Round 20: * Ch 2, <u><b>4 dc</b></u><b> </b>in the center of the next scale,ch 2, 2 dc into
the space between the 2nd and 3rd dc (in the set of 4) from the previous round * <br />
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Round 21: Ch 2, Skip over the first set of 4 dc(the one that was worked into the scale)
and * work a scale into the next set of 2 dc, skip the set of 4 dc *<br />
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Round 22: * Work 2 dc into the center of the next scale, 2 dc into
the space between the 2nd and 3rd dc (in the set of 4) from the previous round * <br />
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Round 23: Ch 2, Skip over the first set of 2 dc(the one that was worked into the scale)
and * work a scale into the next set of 2 dc, skip the set of 2 dc * <br />
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Round 24: * Work 2 dc into the center of the next scale, 2 dc into
the space between the 2 dc from the previous round *<br />
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Round 25: Ch 2, Skip over the first set of 2 dc(the one that was worked into the scale)
and * work a scale into the next set of 2 dc, skip the set of 2 dc * at the end of the round sl st into the top of the 1st dc in the next scale<br />
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Round 26: You will want to work into the 3rd stitch from the hook, it may be difficult to see....not the stitch that is in the center of the scale but the next stitch, work 5 dc into that stitch, * skip 2 stitches and sc in the 3rd st, skip 2 stitches and work 5 dc into the 3rd st. * at the end of the round you will sl st into the same st that you ended the last round with<br />
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Round 27: Ch 3 (counts as dc), work 1 dc into the same st, sc into the top of the 3rd dc in the shell, work 5 dc into the next sc * at the end of round you will work 3 dc into the stitch you started from. sl st into the next sc (the one at the top of the next shell)<br />
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Round 28-29: Repeat last row 2 more times<br />
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Round 30: Ch 1, sc in same stitch, sc in each stitch around, at the end of round sl st into the ch 1 you made at beginning of round<br />
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<u><b>Ears/Straps:</b></u><br />
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Count in the direction that you are working.....count 16 stitches from where your hook is and mark that stitch, count 10 more stitches and mark the 11th stitch. Count 16 more stitches and mark that 16th stitch.<br />
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Turn your work so you are working the opposite direction that you have been working. ch 1 and sc in the next 10 stitches..you should be right next to the marker stitch, turn<br />
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Ch 1, sc in the first st, sc2tog, sc in the next 4 stitches, sc2tog, sc in the last st, turn<br />
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Ch 1, sc in the first st, sc2tog, sc in the next 2 stitches, sc2tog, sc in the last st, turn<br />
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Ch 1, sc in the next 2 stitches, sc2tog, sc in the next 2 stitches, fasten off<br />
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Attach yarn to where the 16th stitch marker is, ch 1 and work sc in the next 10 stitches, you should be right next to the other marker stitch, turn<br />
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Ch 1, sc in the first st (the same one you attached the yarn into), sc2tog, sc in the next 4 stitches, sc2tog, sc in the last st, turn<br />
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Ch 1, sc in the first st, sc2tog, sc in the next 2 stitches, sc2tog, sc in the last st, turn<br />
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Ch 1, sc in the next 2 stitches, sc2tog, sc in the next 2 stitches<br />
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Chain 50-70... I chained 50 but if you would like a longer strap than you can chain more<br />
Make sure you do not twist the chain!!<br />
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Attach the chain with a sl st into the other side, after you attach sc into the next stitch, turn<br />
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Work your way across the chain and at the end of the strap work a sc into the stitch on the other side (make sure it's the 2nd stitch inward not the 1st), turn<br />
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Work sc across the strap, work a sc into the stitch on the other side<br />
Repeat 5 more times. By the end of working the strap the 5 stitches on both sides where the "ears" were made have the strap attached. On the last row sl st in the last stitch instead of sc. Fasten off.<br />
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I put a face on just one side of my purse, if you wish to have a face on both sides than make 4 eyes and 2 beaks.<br />
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<u><b>Eyes:</b></u><b> </b><b>Make 2</b><br />
For the eyes you will want to make a flat circle. You wish to do the eyes differently (different hook size, yarn weight) just make sure it measures to 2 1/2 inches big.<br />
Using a G hook/medium weight yarn<br />
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Chain 2.
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Rnd 1:<b> </b>6 sc in 2nd ch from hook. Sl st in first sc, to join.
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Rnd 2: ch 1, 2 sc in ea sc around. Sl st in first sc, to join.<br />
Rnd 3<b>: </b>ch 1, * sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc * around. Sl st in first sc, to join.<br />
Rnd 4: ch 1, * sc in ea of next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc * around. Sl st in first sc, to join.<br />
Rnd 5: ch 1, * sc in ea of next 3 sc, 2 sc in next sc * around. Sl st in first sc, to join.<br />
<b>Leave the tail long so you can use it to attach the eye to the piece.</b><br />
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<u><b>Beak:</b></u><b> </b><b>Make 1</b><u><b><br /></b></u><br />
I've been going back and forth of how to work the beak of the owl so if you have a way that you like best feel free to use that way. This is how I did mine:<br />
Using a G hook<br />
Ch 2<br />
Sc in to the first ch twice.<br />
Flip/turn your work and ch one.<br />
Sc into each stitch of the last row, there should be 3 sc in this row.<br />
Ch one then again flip your work and sc into each stitch of the previous row, there should now be 4 sc.<br />
I worked a sl st into each st around the border...you don't have to do this if you don't want to. Personally I don't like the triangle beaks, I prefer a shape that is similar to a guitar pick. <br />
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<u><b>Lining the purse:</b></u><br />
This bag needs a lining because of the scales there are holes in between so most likely some small items would fall out. I'm having trouble deciding the best way to line this bag. I wanted to have the pattern complete before I posted it but....I thought maybe it would be best to get some feedback on how to line this purse.<br />
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I found a tutorial that instructs you to measure the size the width of the piece and cut out 2 pieces of fabric and sew the together down the sides, which I think seems like the best solution. <br />
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If you have any better ideas please let me know<br />
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Enjoy!Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-14844135265051436762012-04-10T20:16:00.001-07:002014-02-06T12:01:22.065-08:00Kush Shrug I love shrugs! Leggings and a tunic with some added flair is a typical outfit for me so I love cute shrugs or vests to jazz up and outfit. I previously made the <a href="http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/90689AD.html" target="_blank">Simple Shrug by Lion Brand Yarn</a> in black and I love it. It's a simple pattern where you work up a big rectangle made of rows of dc's and sew together the sides to make a cozy shrug. I decided to take that idea and change it up quite a bit. I'm also working on a light and airy daisy motif shrug but that still needs some work (and blocking) so that one is soon to come.... but is sure to be a showstopper. But for now we will just dive into how to make this shrug, I am so excited to share this pattern with you guys!!!<br />
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<a href="http://crochetpatterncentral.com/">Crochetpatterncentral.com</a> picked up this pattern and put it in their library :) <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QY0abf3BeMI/T4T1xIUuLRI/AAAAAAAAAMk/yrIHhZfK0us/s1600/Shrug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QY0abf3BeMI/T4T1xIUuLRI/AAAAAAAAAMk/yrIHhZfK0us/s400/Shrug.jpg" height="190" width="400" /></a></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DS4FoorH_nE/T4NzkFJchvI/AAAAAAAAAL8/kU8mGmQpuBQ/s1600/IMG01054-20120408-1831_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DS4FoorH_nE/T4NzkFJchvI/AAAAAAAAAL8/kU8mGmQpuBQ/s200/IMG01054-20120408-1831_.jpg" height="150" title="I"m obsessed with this yarn. It's part of the Deborah Norville collection by Premier Yarns" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the colors in this yarn!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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This is a great pattern to use a self striping or ombre yarn with. You could also take this pattern and make a small rectangle and sew the sides to make a cropped version like many other smaller shrug/boleros.<br />
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This pattern may look slightly confusing but it is pretty simple I just would rather over explain that not give enough information. <br />
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<u><b>Hook and yarn:</b></u><br />
You can use any hook and size because you adjust how many sets you need according to the size of your sets. I recommend an H hook and medium worsted acrylic blend yarn but you can use what you like best. But be careful with cotton yarns because you want this piece to have some stretch and flow to it and cotton tends to be a little less flexible.<br />
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<u><b>Button:</b></u><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_0zKnoR-zBg/T4S7uiwlUDI/AAAAAAAAAMc/2u-OD5M2y2E/s1600/CIMG8279_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_0zKnoR-zBg/T4S7uiwlUDI/AAAAAAAAAMc/2u-OD5M2y2E/s200/CIMG8279_.jpg" height="200" width="177" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
How big is the button you plan on using? This is very important when it comes to how many to chain for your button hole. I recommend doing a quick small square of hdc using the appropriate ch size (below) for your button you make sure it fits through but doesn't have to much space to where it will slip out. The button I used is the double quarter size (double the size of a quarter), as you can see in the example pictures.<br />
Quarter size - ch 1 and skip 1 st<br />
Double quarter size/large - ch 2 and skip 2 sts<br />
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<u><b>Measurements:</b></u><br />
You need to determine how big to make the rectangle for your shrug. Grab a measuring strip, a pen and paper. Determine the middle point between your elbow and shoulder, now go about
an inch above that. That is what I am going to refer to as <i>the top of your arm</i>.<br />
<br />
<b>#1. </b>Measure from <i>the top of your arm</i> spot across your shoulders to that same spot on your other arm. Write that measurement down as #1. <br />
<b>#2. </b> Measure from the top of your shoulders down your back to about 5 inches above where you want the piece to stop. (the band will accommodate for those extra 5 inches) Write that measurement down as #2. <br />
<b>#3.</b> Measure from the top of your shoulder down to <i>the top of your arm </i>spot. Write that measurement down as #3. <br />
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You will need to determine how many "sets" you will need to achieve the size needed according to measurement #1.<br />
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<u><b>Sets:</b></u><br />
Each "set" is made of 5 dc's + ch 1 space. Do a test strip with your yarn and hook of choice. Measure the length of your set, you don't need to worry about the height of the set.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kn7hAN3xLaY/T4UpJkw4pxI/AAAAAAAAAM0/5KlSZgUFj-I/s1600/IMG01066-20120410-2328_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kn7hAN3xLaY/T4UpJkw4pxI/AAAAAAAAAM0/5KlSZgUFj-I/s200/IMG01066-20120410-2328_.jpg" height="161" width="200" /></a><br />
I used a H(5mm) Hook and worsted weight yarn and my "sets" are each 2 inches long. For example, on my shrug I put a total of 10 sets + the last 5 dc's so the piece is 21 1/2 inches wide.<br />
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The reason I'm making it confusing with the sets is so you can use any hook size and yarn you choose without it affecting the size of the garment. <br />
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The multiple is 6 then + 5 (for last set of dc's) and + 2 (for starting dc)<br />
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<b>Example:</b><br />
If your "sets" are 2 inches long and you want your piece to be about 22 inches you will need 10 sets + the last sets of 5 dc's<br />
So you would need to chain 67<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">( 6x10=60 +5 +2=67 )</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Kush Shrug</b></span><br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/kush-shrug" target="_blank">Ravelry page for the Kush Shrug - Add it to your library!</a><br />
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I used an H(5mm) Hook and a medium worsted weight soft acrylic blend yarn which is what I recommend but you can use other sizes (as explained above)<br />
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I used approx 600 yards/10.5 oz for mine but it will vary depending on how large or small you make your shrug <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-15okXkeItPY/T4NysBe9obI/AAAAAAAAAL0/YzAFSerjcNQ/s1600/IMG01062-20120409-1326_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-15okXkeItPY/T4NysBe9obI/AAAAAAAAAL0/YzAFSerjcNQ/s200/IMG01062-20120409-1326_.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the pattern I use the term "very first stitch </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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st = stitch<br />
sts = stitches<br />
ch = chain <br />
sl st = slip stitch<br />
hdc = half double crochet<br />
dc = double crochet<br />
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<u><b>Main piece: </b></u><br />
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Repeat from <b>* * </b>across<br />
Chain ____ (according to your calculations)<br />
Row 1: dc in 3rd ch from hook, dc in next 3, * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in next 5 *<br />
Row 2: ch 3 dc in very first, dc in next 4 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in next 5 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in last 4<br />
Row 3: ch 3 dc in very first, dc in next 2 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in next 5 *ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in last 6<br />
Row 4: ch 3 dc in very first, dc in next 5 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in next 5 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in last 3<br />
Row 5: ch 3 dc in very first, dc in next st * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in next 5 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in last 7<br />
Row 6: ch 3 dc in very first, * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in next 5 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in last 2<br />
Row 7: ch 3 dc in very first, * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in next 5 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in last 2<br />
Row 8: ch 3 dc in very first, dc in next st * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in next 5 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in last 7<br />
Row 9: ch 3 dc in very first, dc in next 5 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in next 5 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in last 3<br />
Row 10: ch 3 dc in very first, dc in next 2 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in next 5 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in last 6<br />
Row 11: ch 3 dc in very first, dc in next 4 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in next 5 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in last 4<br />
Row 12: ch 3 dc in very first, dc in next 3 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in next 5 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in last 5<br />
Row 13: ch 3 dc in very first, dc in next 3 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in next 5 * ch 1 skip 1 st, dc in last 5<br />
Repeat rows 2-13 until piece reaches the size according to measurement #2<br />
Do not tie off! But you do want to weave in the end from the beginning.<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><u>Trim: </u></b></span><br />
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Once you finish making your piece lay it flat and take the side with the yarn still attached and fold it over according to however many inches you have for measurement #3. Make sure it is even on both sides, mark that spot on both sides.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0iMHpEqUZOg/T4P9TaTgKSI/AAAAAAAAAME/JV1QytSUSrA/s1600/CIMG8276_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0iMHpEqUZOg/T4P9TaTgKSI/AAAAAAAAAME/JV1QytSUSrA/s200/CIMG8276_.jpg" height="151" width="200" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zlmsHCnU48c/T4QGRxN7npI/AAAAAAAAAMU/_aW-ntOftqE/s1600/CIMG8270_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zlmsHCnU48c/T4QGRxN7npI/AAAAAAAAAMU/_aW-ntOftqE/s200/CIMG8270_.jpg" height="87" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">when working down the sides</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Slip stitch into the stitch you marked (to join)<br />
Ch 2, turn so your are working across the top/neck/short side work hdc into each st across when you get to the end sl st into the other marker stitch to join. <br />
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hdc into that same stitch, <b>*</b>2 hdc in the next st, hdc in the next st, 2 hdc in the next st <b>*</b><br />
When you get to the end of the side work 3 hdc into the corner stitch Repeat between <b>**</b> across<br />
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hdc in each stitch across, at the end of the bottom side work 3 hdc into the corner stitch<br />
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Work up the side the exact same way as you did the other side. (2 hdc into next st, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next st) sl st to join in the ch 2 (the one you made right after you joined the first sides)<br />
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<u>From here on out you will be working in rounds.</u><br />
Round 1: Ch 2, hdc in each st around, sl st into ch 2 to join<br />
Round 2: Repeat last round <br />
Round 3: Repeat last round<br />
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Stop and try on the piece, while you have it on locate your "solar plexus"/celiac plexus, that's the area where your ribs come to a v in the center or your chest...right in the middle near of the bottom of your boobies. Pull both the sides together so they meet up at your plexus, that is where you will want to put the button. You may have to tug on it a bit to get it to meet which is normal because the piece will stretch more once worn. If it is too tight and you cannot get it to meet even when stretched a bit than do a few more rows of hdc. Mark those stitches on both sides but make sure they are even. It is helpful if you mark them then take off the piece and count the rows from the bottom up so you are sure they are even. You can either add just one button (like I did), add 2 buttons or add buttons all the way down, whatever you prefer.<br />
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Round 4: ch 2, hdc in each st, when you get the the marked stitch stop<br />
chain 1 and skip 1 st - small button or chain 2 and skip 2 sts - large button<br />
whichever depending on your button size then hdc into the next stitch and continue working around, when you get to the next marker just keep going but leave that marker in that spot to refer to later. at the end of round sl st to join.<br />
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Round 5: ch 2, work hdc in each st around (including chain for button hole) sl st to join <br />
Round 6: ch 2, hdc in each st around, sl st to join<br />
Round 7: ch 2, hdc in each st around, sl st to join<br />
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<u><b>Trim on sleeves:</b></u><br />
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You will now want to attach the yarn into the "armpit", attach into the same stitch where you joined the sides together. Ch 2 and hdc into the same st, hdc in the next 2 sts, <b>*</b> work 2 hdc in the next st, hdc in the next, 2 hdc in the next st <b>*</b> (the same way you did the sides) sl st to beginning ch 2 to join<br />
Ch 2 and hdc in each st around, tie off<br />
Do the other sleeve the same way<br />
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Attach the button in the stitch that you marked earlier. weave in all the ends and you're done!<br />
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<br />Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-30416274400742525812012-04-09T15:30:00.002-07:002014-02-06T12:00:02.405-08:00The "Fat Bag"...Even Fatter! My new favorite purse!Ever since I first learned to crochet I have seen pictures of this awesome purse that I knew I wanted to make, unfortunately when I went to find the pattern I found a chart or instructions in a language I don't understand. Luckily after some searching I found <a href="http://bendbeanies.blogspot.com/2009/05/bag-pattern.html" target="_blank">this great tutorial by Bend Beanies</a> on how to make the "Fat Bag".<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ssX-ax2EOO8/T4NiYeEb9LI/AAAAAAAAALs/7Gr-1Uow-wQ/s1600/CIMG8223_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ssX-ax2EOO8/T4NiYeEb9LI/AAAAAAAAALs/7Gr-1Uow-wQ/s400/CIMG8223_.jpg" height="400" width="391" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://feiticeiradasagulhas.blogspot.com/2008/12/fat-bag.html" target="_blank">Original design "Fat Bag" by Samanta Maragno</a></span> <br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ivzzbJ0tCgA/T4LAF2VNrpI/AAAAAAAAALU/yVcu5SF6G-I/s1600/3589068063_e8ed7d385f_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ivzzbJ0tCgA/T4LAF2VNrpI/AAAAAAAAALU/yVcu5SF6G-I/s200/3589068063_e8ed7d385f_o.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CLICK on the image to make it bigger</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The chart is the original design, "Bend Beanies" edited the pattern by adding extra rows. The first one I made I made was according to Bend Beanies edits. I was happy with it but I personally like a very deep purse and I felt like my stuff was going to fall out of it if I bent down so I sat down and figured out how to make it the way I want it. I sketched it out and worked it up and I am extremely happy with the results. The first day I was wearing it I was at JoAnns and got complimented by some fellow crocheters in the yarn isle!<br />
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One thing that I think made my purse pop was that I used 2 different ombre yarns. Both were Lily's Sugar and Cream and both had <u>2 common colors</u>. (shades named Moondance & Beach Ball Blue) I switched the yarns after every 2 rows. The common colors of these 2 yarns were white and light blue. I highly recommend using Sugar and Cream because they have a great selection of self striping/ombre yarns and the stiffness the cotton provides is perfect for this purse. I added a few rows of just white cotton in the middle rows of the strap so it has colored "borders".<br />
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The changes I made are simple, normally you start by working 5 hdc on each side of the increase and stop increasing at 18 on each side. With my edit you start with 7 on each side of the increase and stop increasing at 24 on each side. The other change I made is that when you are working the straps you work some decreases.<br />
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/fatter-version-of-the-fat-bag-by-samanta-maragno" target="_blank">Ravelry page for this fatter fat bag - Add it to your library!</a><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Fatter "Fat Bag"</span></b><br />
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H Hook<br />
Uses approx. 350 yards, it depends on how long and wide you make the straps<br />
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sl st= slip stitch <br />
sts=stitches<br />
st=stitch <br />
sc= single crochet <br />
hdc= half double crochet<br />
hdc2tog= half double crochet decrease <br />
hdc increase= 2 hdc's into one stitch<br />
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<b>All turning chain 2 count as a hdc </b><br />
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Chain 23<br />
hdc into the 3rd chain from the hook, hdc in next 6 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 7<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 7 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 8 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 8 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 9 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 9 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 10 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 10 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 11 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 11 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 12 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 12 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 13 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 13 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 14 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 14 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 15 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 15 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 16 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 16 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 17 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 17 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 18 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 18 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 19 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 19 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 20 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 20 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 21 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 21 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 22 sts, turn <br />
ch 2, hdc in next 22 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 23 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 23 sts., 2 hdc in next st., hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in next 24 sts, turn<br />
Work hdc across in each stitch for 24 rows (you can add extra rows if you would like) <br />
ch 2, hdc in next 23 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 24 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 22 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 23sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 21 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 22 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 20 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 21 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 19 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 20 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 18 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 19 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 17 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 18 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 16 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 17 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 15 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 16 sts, turn <br />
ch 2, hdc in next 14 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 15 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 13 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 14 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 12 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 13 sts, turn <br />
ch 2, hdc in next 11 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 12 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 10 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 11 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 9 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 10 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 8 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 9 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 7 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 8 sts, turn<br />
ch 2, hdc in next 6 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in next 5 sts., hdc2tog, hdc in next 7 sts<br />
fasten off and weave in the ends<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z-i0I1Sa4ME/T4NaOmGTmGI/AAAAAAAAALk/Yp0TMlzuzEU/s1600/CIMG8238_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z-i0I1Sa4ME/T4NaOmGTmGI/AAAAAAAAALk/Yp0TMlzuzEU/s320/CIMG8238_.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had an old Ed Hardy scarf that I was able to upcycle it and use it to line my purse, which I think is a great compliment to the other colors.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Lining the purse:</b><br />
I highly recommend lining this purse, you don't have to but I think you should.<br />
<a href="http://bendbeanies.blogspot.com/2009/05/bag-pattern.html" target="_blank">The Bend Beanies tutorial</a> is great for lining the purse and starting the band and straps so use that. They provide lots of pictures and a great detailed explaination. But remember that you want to really squoosh the piece together and do the first band row (working into the turning chains) tightly.. the tighter the more the pleats will stand out. Their directions are correct..do not do that row loosely! So pop over there and then once your ready to do the first row on the straps (after you've done the chains) you can follow the direction below. <br />
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After you've worked up the "band" and started the straps by working the chains and now you're back to where you first attached the yarn for the straps. <br />
Find the 5 stitches that were worked in the middle between the increases/decreases and mark the stitches next to them so you can use these 5 stitches as a reference for the center.<br />
sc around in each stitch<br />
decrease, sc, decrease into the 5 stitches between the markers<br />
3 decreases centered above the markers<br />
2 decreases centered above the markers<br />
1 decrease centered above the markers<br />
sc around in each stitch<br />
sc around in each stitch<br />
If you want super wide straps than do more rows of sc<br />
fasten off and weave in the ends :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KuFYT30zip8/T4NXbeqIVoI/AAAAAAAAALc/HhSRSju1MIo/s1600/CIMG8245_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KuFYT30zip8/T4NXbeqIVoI/AAAAAAAAALc/HhSRSju1MIo/s400/CIMG8245_.jpg" height="400" width="294" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My colorful Fat Bag!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span id="goog_1466602993"></span><span id="goog_1466602994"></span>Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-20192005671010595092012-03-31T18:08:00.002-07:002014-02-06T11:56:31.221-08:00Spring Hat Fever! Simply Burst Beret I'm am making the transition from making a bunch of scarves and beanies to leaping into spring with some cute colorful berets and shrugs. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jziK9iCq-AQ/T3enr-7PIUI/AAAAAAAAAJM/PZfWy5azSBY/s1600/CIMG8034_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jziK9iCq-AQ/T3enr-7PIUI/AAAAAAAAAJM/PZfWy5azSBY/s400/CIMG8034_.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check out those colors! I love the different shades of green and pink. It just screams spring!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CcJo3D6nsoM/T3eoyuPmKJI/AAAAAAAAAJU/L47Rc0l3Usc/s1600/CIMG8097_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CcJo3D6nsoM/T3eoyuPmKJI/AAAAAAAAAJU/L47Rc0l3Usc/s320/CIMG8097_.jpg" height="261" width="320" /></a>I really wish I had a better camera so you could see this hat better!!! I am in love with this pattern, it's so light and airy and it looks awesome with this multicolored yarn. I used Caron (my favorite brand) Simply Soft Paints in the color "Rose Garden". I love this yarn, it is the same one I used for the puff stitches on my Pretty Puffs hat and scarf. It is the perfect yarn to use because it has so much stretch to it which you want for this hat. <br />
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This is a free pattern that is offered on Ravelry, it is not my pattern.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/simply-burst" target="_blank">Simply Burst Beret</a></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j8ezvet9Sc0/T3epyyOf9nI/AAAAAAAAAJc/6ToLoFnT31Y/s1600/CIMG8099_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j8ezvet9Sc0/T3epyyOf9nI/AAAAAAAAAJc/6ToLoFnT31Y/s320/CIMG8099_.jpg" height="284" width="320" /></a>I suggest trying this pattern out with some light and flexible yarn for optimum "slouchyness" (my new word). This hat works up very very quickly. It took me only 1 1/2 episodes of Grey's Anatomy and I was done!<br />
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So get to it hookers!<br />
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<br />Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-28003066615562771312012-03-30T19:27:00.002-07:002015-08-24T15:44:31.883-07:00Spider Web Slouchy Hat<b><br /></b>
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When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade right? Well I've been feeling a little sick this week so while I was letting my body rest I kept my mind and hands busy. I made 3 hats and 2 of them are my own creations. I will take some pictures of the other ones and post them asap. They came out really awesome, luckily when I'm just messing around I usually write down the steps just in case.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rttjsc8Uma8/T3Zp2ITEinI/AAAAAAAAAI8/B0DSeD3QEuw/s1600/CIMG8087_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rttjsc8Uma8/T3Zp2ITEinI/AAAAAAAAAI8/B0DSeD3QEuw/s320/CIMG8087_.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretend that the ring is closed, I tried on the hat and took this before I finished off and it ended up being the best picture of it with my crappy camera.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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This hat would be good for a spring or summer hat. Who says hats are supposed to be "warm"? I recently was making Red Hearts free pattern for the Lighthearted top (It's hibernating right now) and a friend said that it looked like a spider web and that it looked really cool. I got to thinking that it would be cool to make a light airy beret with a web type pattern...and this hat was born!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VcJEMwdJN2Q/T59BN_dE2yI/AAAAAAAAARY/aG3Ecis5gSA/s1600/CIMG8448_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VcJEMwdJN2Q/T59BN_dE2yI/AAAAAAAAARY/aG3Ecis5gSA/s320/CIMG8448_.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="http://crochetpatterncentral.com/">Crochetpatterncentral.com</a> picked up this pattern and added it to their library :) <br />
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The band measures 22 inches around. If that is too small for you than you than in the "decrease round" work 16 sc between each sc2tog instead of 13.<br />
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It is a very flexible pattern and you can easily see how you could add more rows onto the pattern before you work the decrease rounds. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Spider Web Slouch</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/spider-web-slouchy-hat" target="_blank">Add this hat to your Ravelry library!</a></span><br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/badges/redirect?p=spider-web-slouchy-hat"><img src="http://api.ravelry.com/badges/projects?p=spider-web-slouchy-hat&t=.gif" style="border: medium none;" /></a><br />
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G Hook<br />
Worsted weight yarn<br />
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Stitches used:<br />
ch - chain <br />
slst - Slip stitch<br />
sc - single crochet<br />
sc2tog - single crochet 2 together (decrease)<br />
dc - double crochet<br />
dc2tog - dc 2 together (decrease) <br />
** Repeat around<br />
<br />
You need to know how to make an adjustable ("magic") ring.<br />
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Note: You will need to go <u>into the top</u> of the dc's from the previous round.<br />
<b>Do not work the chains too tightly, </b>your piece will end up smaller than the intended size. You want the hat to have stretch and flow to it so don't make stiff tight chains. <u>Since chains form most of the hat if you are a tight crocheter than you might want to go up a hook size!! </u><br />
<u><br /></u>
<u>I cannot stress enough that how tight you make your chains will determine the size. If it is too small keep increasing stitches before you start the decrease! Each yarn will be slightly different so please be prepared to improvise steps if your is too tight/loose. Unfortunately because of the variables I cannot be held responsible for some hat coming out smaller/larger. Please use your best judgement. </u><br />
<br />
- Make an adjustable ring<br />
- ch 3, work 11 dc into the ring, join with a sl st<br />
- Ch 4 (for 3 chains will count as first dc here and throughout), *dc into the top of the next dc, ch 1, dc into same st, ch 1, dc into the top of next dc, ch 1.* Slst into the 3rd chain of starting chain (you will do this at the end of every round here and throughout)<br />
- Ch 5, *dc into top of dc from previous round, ch 2.* Slst into the 3rd chain.<br />
- Ch 6, *dc into top of dc from previous round, ch 3.* Slst into the 3rd chain.<br />
- Ch 7, *dc into top of dc from previous round, ch 4.* Slst into the 3rd chain.<br />
- Ch 8, *dc into top of dc from previous round, ch 5.* Slst into the 3rd chain.<br />
- Ch 9, *dc into top of dc from previous round, ch 6.* Slst into the 3rd chain.<br />
- Ch 10, *dc into top of dc from previous round, ch 7.* Slst into the 3rd chain.<br />
- Ch 11, *dc into top of dc from previous round, ch 8.* Slst into the 3rd chain.<br />
- Ch 12, *dc into top of dc from previous round, ch 9.* Slst into the 3rd chain. <br />
<br />
This is where you will start decreasing. If it seems a little too small still just keep increasing! Theres no major rhyme or reason to the pattern of decreasing back down so don't get intimidated that there wont be exact steps. Use the information at hand to guide you. This pattern was designed to be something you can easily adjust to size.<br />
<br />
- Ch 11, *dc into top of dc from previous round, ch 8.* Slst into the 3rd chain.<br />
- Ch 10, *dc into top of dc from previous round, ch 7.* Slst into the 3rd chain. <br />
- Ch 8, *dc into top of dc from previous round, ch 5.* Slst into the 3rd chain.<br />
- Ch 7, *dc into top of dc from previous round, ch 4.* Slst into the 3rd chain. <br />
- Ch 4, dc in same stitch, *ch 2, dc in next dc from previous round, ch 1 dc in the top of same dc* at end of round ch 2 and sl st into the 3rd chain<br />
- Ch 1, sc in next 13 stitches (chains count as stitches), *sc2tog, sc in next 13 stitches* sc in remaining sts, sl st in first sc to join<br />
- Ch 1, sc in each stitch around, sl st in first sc to join <br />
- Repeat last round 3 more times. (you can work less or more rounds depending on how wide you want the band to be)<br />
Make sure your ring is pulled tight. Weave in the ends<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4svh9AZh7Oc/T3ZqjUAh4rI/AAAAAAAAAJE/NqvtJ6ASnJA/s1600/CIMG8130_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4svh9AZh7Oc/T3ZqjUAh4rI/AAAAAAAAAJE/NqvtJ6ASnJA/s200/CIMG8130_.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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I am so amazed by the feedback and attention this hat got, quite a confidence boost for a newbie :) Thank you guys so much and I'm really glad that so many of you enjoy this pattern!<br />
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<br />Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com63tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-36971852376170587862012-03-26T10:11:00.000-07:002015-11-18T15:56:03.558-08:00Simple Stripes Scarf<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fiwduY0KIqw/T3CqKBPI9fI/AAAAAAAAAHw/2x1_hL2dLrE/s1600/CIMG7962_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fiwduY0KIqw/T3CqKBPI9fI/AAAAAAAAAHw/2x1_hL2dLrE/s400/CIMG7962_.jpg" width="328" /></a></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kvWLQC0EKts/T3CsSJ52q8I/AAAAAAAAAIA/pTDw_qTXm2Q/s1600/CIMG7978_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kvWLQC0EKts/T3CsSJ52q8I/AAAAAAAAAIA/pTDw_qTXm2Q/s320/CIMG7978_.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On mine Color A is black B is grey C is white</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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This is a super simple scarf that I made for my Mom. She wanted me to use black, grey and white. I knew I didn't want to use equal rows, I wanted more of an abstract look to the lines. Some skinny, some thick all mixed up. I tried to find a pattern like that and I did find some but that were similar to what I was looking for but not what I wanted. So.....like I typically do when I can't find a pattern... I made my own.<br />
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For this scarf you mix rows of sc and hdc. You can use this "formula" (if you want to call it that) to mix any number of colors. I used 3 for the scarf, so for these instructions I will use 3. Basically what you do is in every "set" one color will be sc and the others colors will be hdc. Rotate which color is worked in sc in each set. Work until each color has a row of sc.You can use just 3 colors or however many you would like. If you are using 6 or more different colors work 2 colors in sc in each set instead of just 1.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/simple-stripes-scarf-3" target="_blank">Here's the Ravelry page for this scarf - Add it to your library!</a></span><br />
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I used a J hook, but you can use any size hook depending on how tight and snug you want your scarf.<br />
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Color A<br />
Color B<br />
Color C<br />
<br />
Chain desired length for scarf in Color A (mine was about 80 inches long) After making the chain with Color A start your first row with Color A as seen below in the "formula"<br />
<br />
<b>First set:</b><br />
A - HDC<br />
B - HDC<br />
C - <i>SC</i><br />
<br />
<b>Second set:</b><br />
A - HDC<br />
B - <i>SC </i><br />
C - HDC<br />
<br />
<b>Third set:</b><br />
A - <i>SC</i><br />
B - HDC<br />
C - HDC<br />
<br />
Repeat the sets until desired width is achieved.<br />
After all sets are completed work a row of hdc with Color A, ch 1. Turn.<br />
Work a row of sc (still with Color A)<br />
Tie off. The extra row is to help it look more even with the foundation row size wise. If you want to skip that step you can.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1na0_EYH7D8/T3AxtXRAbjI/AAAAAAAAAHg/ZxTNJ6pBEP0/s1600/CIMG7951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1na0_EYH7D8/T3AxtXRAbjI/AAAAAAAAAHg/ZxTNJ6pBEP0/s320/CIMG7951.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I suggest adding fringe, I think it makes it look nice. Plus then you don't have to weave in the ends! Add the fringe in the appropriate spots to match the colors. I your unsure how to properly add fringe there are plenty of tutorials out there to help.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bobbSTZHif8/T3CqgXrH1yI/AAAAAAAAAH4/0vTQV054Jj8/s1600/CIMG7960_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bobbSTZHif8/T3CqgXrH1yI/AAAAAAAAAH4/0vTQV054Jj8/s320/CIMG7960_.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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If you need any help just let me know :)<br />
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Enjoy!!!<br />
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Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-35814071899182280682012-03-20T16:39:00.001-07:002014-02-06T11:52:14.972-08:00Bolero / Shrug to Match the "Perfect Purse by Lion Brand Yarn"<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9IrQwymnpbw/T2kRW18OFBI/AAAAAAAAAG4/JrHXy5Ewv-M/s1600/CIMG7878_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9IrQwymnpbw/T2kRW18OFBI/AAAAAAAAAG4/JrHXy5Ewv-M/s320/CIMG7878_.jpg" height="229" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FLASH! Sorry for the crappy quality, I had to do a mirror shot.</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NwepIrH8n2k/T2kUuUSrlLI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/nOxkvbU5UGY/s1600/CIMG7870_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NwepIrH8n2k/T2kUuUSrlLI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/nOxkvbU5UGY/s200/CIMG7870_.jpg" height="167" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What it looks like from behind</td></tr>
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This super simple bolero shrug is designed to match the "Perfect Purse" pattern that is offered free by Lion Brand Yarn <a href="http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/90138AD.html" target="_blank">here.</a> I made the clutch purse a couple weeks ago and knew I would want something to match it (I'm <u>very</u> into matching items) so I figured might as well make a shrug to match it. It would be perfect to pair together with a dress for a lunch date or wedding. You could also pair them with jeans and a tank for a cute casual spring/summer outfit. It helps if you have already made the purse because you will be familiar with working with the shells in the pattern. Also if you have already made the purse you know that you do rows of SC and the work the shell pattern. For this you do the same thing except you add rows of sc at the end also. This shrug is super easy to make because it is just a big rectangle that is sewn together at the ends.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XfMQjH15YrE/T2kRyVm84TI/AAAAAAAAAHA/0xPejZHxQqo/s1600/CIMG7886_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XfMQjH15YrE/T2kRyVm84TI/AAAAAAAAAHA/0xPejZHxQqo/s200/CIMG7886_.jpg" height="200" width="145" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A shot of the shells on my arm</td></tr>
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To start you need to figure out how big your rectangle needs to be. Measure the size of your arm
circumference about halfway between your shoulder and your elbow. This
will be the width of your rectangle. (I added an inch just to make sure it's not to tight around the arm) Now, measure the length between
that space on your left arm and the same spot on your right arm. This
will be your length.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/perfect-little-shrug-to-match-the-perfect-little-purse-by-lion-brand-yarn" target="_blank">Add this shrug to your Ravelry library!</a></span><br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/badges/redirect?p=perfect-little-shrug-to-match-the-perfect-little-purse-by-lion-brand-yarn"><img src="http://api.ravelry.com/badges/projects?p=perfect-little-shrug-to-match-the-perfect-little-purse-by-lion-brand-yarn&t=.gif" style="border: none;" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Shrug: </b></span><br />
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Use a G/4.25Hook<br />
You need to chain multiples of 5 +3 (just like the purse pattern)<br />
<b>Row 1:</b> Sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across.
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<b>Row 2:</b> Ch 1, turn. Sc in each st across.
<b> </b><br />
<b>Row 3:</b> Ch 3 (counts as 1st dc), sk next sc, work 1 dc in
next sc, *sk 4 sc, (dc, ch 1, dc, ch 1, dc, ch 1, dc) in next st – Shell
made; rep from * across, end last rep sk 4 sc, 2 dc in last sc.
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<b>Next Row:</b> Ch 3, turn. Sk next dc, dc in next dc, *work Shell in center ch-1 space of Shell; rep from * across, end 2 dc in last dc.
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Rep last row until piece measures the length you need<br />
<b>Next Row: </b>Ch 1, turn. Sc in next 3 stitches, Sc2tog in 4th stitch, repeat across<br />
<b>Next Row: </b>Repeat the last row<br />
Fasten off.<br />
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You now have a rectangle piece. Fold it in half so that you
have a long, skinny rectangle now. Start at one short end and stitch
inward the same length as it takes to get from the part of your arm that
you measured to your armpit. Now cut your yarn and weave in that end
and repeat on the other side. Your rectangle now has two sewn ends,
making tubes on either side for the sleeves. Put it on to test the fit. Now you will want to add more of a "rim" to the shrug, it makes it look more polished and also help hide the awkward point where the armpit is and it was sewn together.<br />
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Rim:</span></u></b><br />
<b>Row 1:</b> To do this you want to start with a slipknot on your hook and slip stitch into the stitch in the armpit area, work sc in each st. across, slip st to join.<br />
For the 3-5 stitches that are directly in the armpit area that goes to a "point" (where it was sewn together) you will want to do HDC in those for the <u>next 2 rows </u><br />
<b>Row 2: </b>Ch 1, Sc in each st. across (except for hdc in armpit)<br />
<b>Row 3: </b>Repeat last row<br />
<b>Row 4: </b>SC in each st. across (you do not need to hdc in armpit)<b></b><br />
You can fasten off <b>OR </b>continue to repeat the rows until the rim is as wide as you would like<b></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x2-Mk36N_oc/T2kPMP9IxFI/AAAAAAAAAGw/R49SlWvG_5U/s1600/CIMG7861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x2-Mk36N_oc/T2kPMP9IxFI/AAAAAAAAAGw/R49SlWvG_5U/s320/CIMG7861.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished Shrug</td></tr>
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<b><br /></b>
<span style="font-size: large;"> Now you have an awesome little shrug to match your clutch purse!</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yKKuQDSQMFY/T2kSwl5XiQI/AAAAAAAAAHI/77URSGHfRtM/s1600/CIMG7906_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yKKuQDSQMFY/T2kSwl5XiQI/AAAAAAAAAHI/77URSGHfRtM/s400/CIMG7906_.jpg" height="287" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Effortless outfit :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-71202053971641434642012-03-16T19:57:00.000-07:002014-02-06T11:51:30.193-08:00Basketweave Stitch Infinity Scarf<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wMFOH6d5Lng/T2P5HTr0FrI/AAAAAAAAAF8/RkawEWAItZY/s1600/CIMG7782_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wMFOH6d5Lng/T2P5HTr0FrI/AAAAAAAAAF8/RkawEWAItZY/s320/CIMG7782_.jpg" height="225" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
This is a very simple and very cozy scarf. The basketweave stitch comes out pretty thick so this scarf is perfect for a chilly winter day. If you are not familiar with basketweave stitch don't be intimidated, it is sets of front and
back post stitches done in a way that makes it look "weaved" (like a basket). <b>There are many tutorials on Youtube of how to do the basketweave stitch
</b>but <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zb9CrMuCPhU&list=LLKyvi4iVw1_eiUYy8yY2aMw&index=5&feature=plpp_video" target="_blank">this is the one I used</a> and I found it very easy to follow. <br />
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For mine I did 5 sets of 4 posts (post=fpdc or bpdc), each set is about 1 inch wide. To make the scarf pick how many "sets of posts" you want (width) and work it up until you have your desired length. Stitch the ends together with a needle and voila! You have a nice thick scarf!<br />
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I made mine in black so in the pictures it's a little difficult to see how cool the weave looks. I used Caron Simply Soft which is my favorite brand for scarves since it's super soft.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rNQosjPziz8/T2P7Z7PzlJI/AAAAAAAAAGE/ge7z8OYt2e4/s1600/CIMG7789_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rNQosjPziz8/T2P7Z7PzlJI/AAAAAAAAAGE/ge7z8OYt2e4/s320/CIMG7789_.jpg" height="320" width="243" /></a></div>
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<br />Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-73801608421278838722012-03-13T14:26:00.000-07:002014-02-06T11:50:34.687-08:00Perfect Little Purse<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2yZsC17feAk/T2BJBhwNvvI/AAAAAAAAAFs/QaAoex_ds3w/s1600/CIMG7725_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2yZsC17feAk/T2BJBhwNvvI/AAAAAAAAAFs/QaAoex_ds3w/s320/CIMG7725_.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My yellow "wristlet" one, you can also tuck in the strap if you don't want to use it.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This pattern is the "Perfect Purse" offered by Lion Brand Yarn. It is the perfect little size so it could be used as a clutch purse, makeup bag or even use it like I did as a place to keep my hooks. You can make different sizes by switching the length of the chain, you can ch. 28 instead of 38 to get a smaller clutch. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M0tCdA-VWdI/T1-4j7u4OwI/AAAAAAAAAFc/bEeap0PzUgc/s1600/90138ada_medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M0tCdA-VWdI/T1-4j7u4OwI/AAAAAAAAAFc/bEeap0PzUgc/s320/90138ada_medium.jpg" height="320" width="284" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The picture on their website</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JTuh6HWKUuQ/T1-4HnTkcNI/AAAAAAAAAFU/qL6YHKahc4M/s1600/CIMG7542_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JTuh6HWKUuQ/T1-4HnTkcNI/AAAAAAAAAFU/qL6YHKahc4M/s200/CIMG7542_.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My smaller purple one</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<a href="http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/90138AD.html?r=1" target="_blank">Free Pattern</a><br />
<br />
To get the pattern you must sign up for Lion Brand Yarn's website. Which
is very simple and free, you will want to do this because than you can
surf their site and they have some really awesome patterns for free on
there.<br />
<br />
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I suggest sewing in a liner if your going to be keeping small items in there, you can also add a strap if you would like. To add a strap like the one I did (in the picture above) I attached some yarn to the top left side and made a tight chain long enough to slip on my wrist and slip stitched it into the stitch where the chain started from. The ravelry page for this item has some great picture to give you some ideas.<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/perfect-purse" target="_blank">Ravelry Page</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4iTBoW1wPDQ/T3Ak4ThCgMI/AAAAAAAAAHY/Gi-gUN0jnRU/s1600/CIMG7920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4iTBoW1wPDQ/T3Ak4ThCgMI/AAAAAAAAAHY/Gi-gUN0jnRU/s320/CIMG7920.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's one I made for a friend of mine</td></tr>
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If you need any help with how to sew a liner into a purse there are many great Youtube videos and tutorials. For a purse this size you can use an old t-shirt if you don't have any extra fabric. I found that bandanas work great!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3P6PwfyoHZs/T2BJNgwYDjI/AAAAAAAAAF0/2PiOoPtHgNA/s1600/CIMG7724_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3P6PwfyoHZs/T2BJNgwYDjI/AAAAAAAAAF0/2PiOoPtHgNA/s320/CIMG7724_.jpg" height="179" width="320" /> </a></td><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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I'm working on a matching bolero shrug (in yellow) so I can pair them with a sundress... I think it will be a perfect effortless summer outfit :) I can't wait for the sunshine, this rain has me daydreaming about summer outfits.Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-72561938519704992312012-03-02T21:21:00.002-08:002014-02-06T11:47:51.399-08:00Bangle Bracelet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ldWcWlHJCzw/T1Gp_R0AT_I/AAAAAAAAAEk/Hufgglea-20/s1600/IMG00799-20120302-2053_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ldWcWlHJCzw/T1Gp_R0AT_I/AAAAAAAAAEk/Hufgglea-20/s400/IMG00799-20120302-2053_.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Take those old bangles and turn them into a cute crochet bracelet</td></tr>
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I decided to make a bracelet with some old bangles I had laying around, it came out awesome so I thought I would share how I did it.<br />
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You need: <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jJrHHVHfmy8/T1GXpRruZNI/AAAAAAAAAD0/sRk9fhqw7F8/s1600/IMG00699-20120302-1508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jJrHHVHfmy8/T1GXpRruZNI/AAAAAAAAAD0/sRk9fhqw7F8/s200/IMG00699-20120302-1508.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yzbTdzmWor0/T1GXlVTFB1I/AAAAAAAAADs/eXWUwW25ojU/s1600/IMG00693-20120302-1505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yzbTdzmWor0/T1GXlVTFB1I/AAAAAAAAADs/eXWUwW25ojU/s200/IMG00693-20120302-1505.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>2 Metal bangle bracelets<br />
Yarn<br />
Small crochet hook (I used G/4.25 mm)<br />
Tapestry needle <br />
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You are going to want to SC <u>around</u> the bangle. Here's a few pictures to help:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oDEaNSb4_QA/T1GYhEsq1MI/AAAAAAAAAD8/Zy4qsM_Hsv8/s1600/IMG00705-20120302-1515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oDEaNSb4_QA/T1GYhEsq1MI/AAAAAAAAAD8/Zy4qsM_Hsv8/s200/IMG00705-20120302-1515.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><br />
Start by making a slipknot.<br />
Pull the yarn through the bangle <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2UPP2K7UYXY/T1GYklbkB5I/AAAAAAAAAEE/8kq5N3xRfK4/s1600/IMG00706-20120302-1516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2UPP2K7UYXY/T1GYklbkB5I/AAAAAAAAAEE/8kq5N3xRfK4/s1600/IMG00706-20120302-1516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2UPP2K7UYXY/T1GYklbkB5I/AAAAAAAAAEE/8kq5N3xRfK4/s200/IMG00706-20120302-1516.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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You will have 2 loops on your hook <br />
Yarn over and pull through both loops<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-szofKveiL8w/T1GYn6vpZpI/AAAAAAAAAEM/IUv3iqykYhY/s1600/IMG00713-20120302-1518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-szofKveiL8w/T1GYn6vpZpI/AAAAAAAAAEM/IUv3iqykYhY/s200/IMG00713-20120302-1518.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">* SC around the bangle until it is covered, slip stitch to join</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">* Ch 2. DC in each stitch around, slip stitch to the top of the first DC</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> (Here's where it starts to get a little tricky)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">* SC onto the 2nd bangle. When you SC you must do it a little differently than before, you need to go through the<u> front loop of the DC then pull the yarn through the bangle. </u>Basically you put your hook into the front loop then pull the yarn through the bangle (you will have 3 loops on your hook) yarn over and pull through all 3 loops. Join.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">* HDC in each stitch around. Fasten off but leave a very long tail</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">*Now push the "flap" (row of HDC) into the interior of the bracelet.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">* Take the long tail and your needle to attach the "flap" to the inside using the top loops of your work and loops on the inside.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z9cEuiKruBI/T1GdC7ed4rI/AAAAAAAAAEU/Btg2aE2A1q4/s1600/IMG00688-20120302-1501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z9cEuiKruBI/T1GdC7ed4rI/AAAAAAAAAEU/Btg2aE2A1q4/s200/IMG00688-20120302-1501.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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I'm sorry I don't have more step by step pictures to share. I am going to make another one soon so when I do I will update this with some extra pictures. :)<br />
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<br />Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-85221908899613360852012-02-21T18:11:00.003-08:002014-02-06T11:47:26.862-08:00Coffee Cup Cozy<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a-RiI_lN4XY/T0RNB9yKFZI/AAAAAAAAADE/JIAT2NvLzRw/s1600/CIMG7474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a-RiI_lN4XY/T0RNB9yKFZI/AAAAAAAAADE/JIAT2NvLzRw/s400/CIMG7474.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some sugary creamy coffee in my cup :)</td></tr>
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Since I am highly dependent on caffeine and love my coffee I decided to make the popular cup cozy that you can find pictures of all over the internet.<br />
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It's a very easy and instant gratification projects. It doesn't use much yarn so you can use extra yarn you have laying around or pick up some to match your home decor (I lucked out and had some Sugar n Cream brand lime green yarn on hand - which matches my living room) I am a huge fan of bright big buttons so this project just screamed my name.<br />
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<b> </b>You can look it this and pretty much figure out out it's done just by looking. I used the tuturial that I posted below but since each cup if different in size there isn't any set pattern. I will tell you the steps of what I did....<br />
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*Start by making a chain, you want your chain to be a little bigger than the cup. Wrap your chain around the cup to check the size, you want about and inch extra.<br />
*Pick your stitch, I used Single Crochet, but you could use SC, HDC or DC. It all depends on what you like best. (for these instructions I'm going to use SC)<br />
*SC in each stitch, ch 1 and turn, repeat until it becomes the height that is appropriate for the cup you want to use it with<br />
*Now you want to SC down the "short" side (<u>not</u> the side you have been working on)<br />
*Chain 3 and slip stitch to connect the two sides<br />
*SC up the other "short" side so that now you are back at the "top"<br />
*Attach the button to the opposite side <br />
*You will now want to put the cozy onto the cup<br />
*Chain enough so you can wrap it around the button and slip stitch it back into the sitch where you started the chain<br />
*Fasten off and weave in the ends<br />
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<b>I used this tutorial for my cozy: </b><a href="http://allaboutami.tumblr.com/post/5392680874/cupcozytutorial" target="_blank">Cozy Pattern</a><br />
<b> Tip:</b> When it comes to making the chain to go around the button I suggest switching to a smaller hook size. I used an H (5mm) hook for the cozy and a G (4.25mm) hook for the button chain.<br />
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On mine I didn't do standard Single Crochet stitch, I did in the back loops then once turned I did in just the front loops, then the back and so on. I noticed when you do the in the "back loops stitch" you end up with a stripe type of line on the reverse side and I don't really like that so I found if you go from back to front then all the stripe lines are on one side. I made the side with the stripes the inner side, I really liked how it came out.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qT7byUkQcM4/T0RNYHBPwEI/AAAAAAAAADM/ck0nVkzbHzo/s1600/CIMG7491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qT7byUkQcM4/T0RNYHBPwEI/AAAAAAAAADM/ck0nVkzbHzo/s200/CIMG7491.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coffee Cozy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Now go brew up some coffee and kick up your feet with your adorable cup cozy!Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-47361689231572168992012-02-08T18:04:00.000-08:002014-02-06T11:46:07.474-08:00"Divine" Beanie OBESSION<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8TDz-OwmNYc/TzMlqEBK6TI/AAAAAAAAACE/8shUVtbLD_Y/s1600/2243147704_93c05e21c7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8TDz-OwmNYc/TzMlqEBK6TI/AAAAAAAAACE/8shUVtbLD_Y/s320/2243147704_93c05e21c7.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Divine hat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So when my eyes first landed on a picture (the exact same picture as I posted to the left) of the Divine beanie an overwhelming feeling came over me:<br />
1. Holy crap, I want, no need......NO, I MUST make this beanie!<br />
2. Intimidation, it's looks very complicated<br />
3. Do I have enough yarn to do one right now?<br />
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I had never used a back or front post stitch (I'm still very new to crochet) so I watched a tutorial, did some practice stitches and felt confident enough to get going on the pattern. <br />
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Once I got started I couldn't stop, I've made so many of these hats already! I <b>highly</b> <b>recommend</b> this pattern, its easy and awesome! You can finish it in one day, gotta love those instant gratification projects!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ap4T7_TYa40/TzMneZT4qyI/AAAAAAAAACk/Z6DgZKkzLC4/s1600/IMG00354-20120127-1500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ap4T7_TYa40/TzMneZT4qyI/AAAAAAAAACk/Z6DgZKkzLC4/s400/IMG00354-20120127-1500.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me wearing the Divine hat with "alternative" border stitching</td></tr>
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<u>Alternative border:</u> I personally really enjoy "skull cap" style beanies so I decided to make my hot pink hat more of a skull cap rather than a beanie. If you would like to do that also its simple. After you finish Rnd. 7 on the pattern (SC around) do 1 more round of SC in each stitch and boom, you're done! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qM1wqfeYLRU/TzMnh3zOz8I/AAAAAAAAACs/HMcXMy0d4cI/s1600/IMG00396-20120206-1345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qM1wqfeYLRU/TzMnh3zOz8I/AAAAAAAAACs/HMcXMy0d4cI/s200/IMG00396-20120206-1345.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3 finished 1 still in the making (all with Caron SS)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><u>Link for the pattern:</u></b> <a href="http://www.rheatheylia.com/index.php?page=patterns&id=10">http://www.rheatheylia.com/index.php?page=patterns&id=10</a><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MKcleRTAJEQ/TzMlsnaOooI/AAAAAAAAACM/GUaALGTOdtY/s1600/2242353919_3a462ebd4d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MKcleRTAJEQ/TzMlsnaOooI/AAAAAAAAACM/GUaALGTOdtY/s200/2242353919_3a462ebd4d.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Divine beanie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://thekidneybean.wordpress.com/2008/02/06/the-spiral-effect/" target="_blank">* I used this website for a couple of the pictures</a> because their pictures were perfect and really showed the detail, also because it was those pictures that made me fall in love with the hat and decide to make it.Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-3995322448676191192012-02-08T17:32:00.000-08:002012-02-08T17:33:33.729-08:00Finding FREE Cute Crochet Patterns...YIKES!"Free" is not always free when it comes to searching for crochet patterns. I always seem to get reeled into a site by the claim of free patterns then I get there and its only 1 super crappy free pattern, ugh! <br />
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<br />
When the idea of learning to crochet was first presented to me it was in an article about how to reduce your stress levels, I decided that crochet seemed like a perfect stress busting craft. Since most (nearly 100%) of the stress I had was all revolved around money (and how I have none!!) a cheap hobby would be ideal. <br />
The idea of buying a pattern for $5+ rubs me the wrong way. No disrespect to anyone who spends lots of time designing patterns, I know you work very hard and you should earn some cash for your hard work. If I had the money I would buy your patterns in a quick second!<br />
<br />
After going through hundreds (literally)of websites/blogs trying to find the best free patterns I thought to myself...there must be so many other people out there doing this also so I figured I could track my projects and share them. I ONLY make items with free patterns! I would think that after going through Caron, Lion Brand and
many other yarn brand websites I could come up with more free patterns
than my wishlist of paid ones.....but it's about even so my hunt continues, I have many many
awesome patterns that I'm excited to try out and hopefully you will
join me along the way :)<br />
<br />Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-85310452935256172122012-02-06T15:03:00.000-08:002014-02-06T11:45:13.450-08:00The Pretty Puffs Slouchy Hat with Matching Scarf<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hbOqfYKDmDI/T2QW7JKne1I/AAAAAAAAAGM/N-RDe0GMVzs/s1600/CIMG7840_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hbOqfYKDmDI/T2QW7JKne1I/AAAAAAAAAGM/N-RDe0GMVzs/s400/CIMG7840_.jpg" height="400" width="281" /></a></div>
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I saw a picture online of this beautiful beanie/beret that used a few rows of puff stitch and it looked amazing so I knew I wanted to try it. I went to the website and tried to find the pattern and failed, the link was "broken" UGH! I saw comments from many people asking where could they find it or one similar to it. After searching and searching for the pattern I managed to find 2 websites that listed the pattern, it was identical. Now I have no clue which was the original poster/designer of the pattern so I thought I would post both links. I also found a site of this girl who loves the pattern and made the hats in many different colors and cool color mixes. she inspired me to make it more than just 1 color.<br />
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<b>Inspiration links: </b><br />
<a href="http://stampininspirations.blogspot.com/2010/12/puff-slouchy-crochet-hats-and-visor-cap.htm" target="_blank">Color inspriration</a><br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/pretty-puffs-slouchy-hat" target="_blank">Ravelry page</a><br />
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<b>Pattern links:</b><br />
<a href="http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=195823.0" target="_blank">Link #1</a><br />
<a href="http://craftypants.wordpress.com/2007/09/13/pretty-puffs-slouchy-hat-with-pattern/" target="_blank">Link #2</a><br />
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For mine I used a multi colored yarn for the puff stitch rows and a single color for the rest. I used Caron Simply Soft brand for both colors of yarn.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sORcbe16978/TzBbnctrwWI/AAAAAAAAAB0/bW1uGNcbPqE/s1600/IMG00382-20120202-1508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sORcbe16978/TzBbnctrwWI/AAAAAAAAAB0/bW1uGNcbPqE/s320/IMG00382-20120202-1508.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Puff Stitch on Pretty Puffs Slouchy Hat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I REALLY liked how it came out so I tried to find a scarf pattern that would match and I couldnt find one so I just created my own. I thought it looked nice with 1 row of puff stitch going down the scarf, I tried to make the stitching on the scarf match the "headband" part of the hat<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/pretty-puffs-scarf-to-match-pretty-puffs-hat" target="_blank">Here's the Ravelry page for this scarf - Add it to your library!</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Scarf: </b></span><br />
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Make a chain the desired length you would like for your scarf<br />
<b>Row 1:</b> SC down the entire chain, Ch. 1, turn.<br />
<b>Row 2:</b> SC across, Ch 3, turn (If you are using 2 different colors like I did you want to switch your color before you Ch. 3)<br />
<b>Row 3:</b> Puff stitch in first stitch, ch. 1, skip next stitch and DC in the next stitch, ch1. Continue to Puff stitch, ch1, skip one stitch, DC in next stitch across, ch 1 (you're going into <u>every other</u> stitch). Ch 3, turn<br />
<b>Row 4:</b> (If using 2 colors, switch back to original color now) SC in each stitch across, ch. 1, turn<br />
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Repeat Row 4 until the scarf is as wide as you want<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XZ8r66n619M/T1GSnllgijI/AAAAAAAAADU/23eqgVCYeLo/s1600/IMG00723-20120302-1930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XZ8r66n619M/T1GSnllgijI/AAAAAAAAADU/23eqgVCYeLo/s400/IMG00723-20120302-1930.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
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<br />
For my scarf I decided to go with an offset row of puffs but if you would like your row centered then simply add more rows of SC before you do your row of puff stitches, or you could also do more rows of puff stitches versus just one. There is a lot of freedom to mix up the pattern so have fun with it. <br />
Enjoy :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IiEIpcL6Jsc/TzBbq_SJ0SI/AAAAAAAAAB8/P7-e1W6gTXI/s1600/IMG00402-20120206-1348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IiEIpcL6Jsc/TzBbq_SJ0SI/AAAAAAAAAB8/P7-e1W6gTXI/s320/IMG00402-20120206-1348.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty puffs beanie and matching scarf</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9CJtYz04Z84/T1GSrAFJpKI/AAAAAAAAADc/obzagk_Ufxo/s1600/IMG00731-20120302-1933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9CJtYz04Z84/T1GSrAFJpKI/AAAAAAAAADc/obzagk_Ufxo/s320/IMG00731-20120302-1933.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My completed scarf, I love the super soft fringe</td></tr>
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<br />Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-17686508509466118582012-02-06T14:44:00.000-08:002014-02-06T11:53:30.969-08:00V-Day cheerSo with some pink and red yarn in hand and V-day approaching I wanted a cute, easy and fun project to bring some V-day cheer into my little apartment. As I was looking online to find some projects I kept coming across wreaths which were all adorable but I did not want to make 20+ flowers or hearts and put them all on a ring tube thing that I had to go out and buy = waaaaay more work and money than I wanted to put into it! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wpcCcJBa9CU/TzBXFVM1WtI/AAAAAAAAABU/raiea7quG0c/s1600/IMG00418-20120206-1401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wpcCcJBa9CU/TzBXFVM1WtI/AAAAAAAAABU/raiea7quG0c/s200/IMG00418-20120206-1401.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crochet hearts</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XEtO4PU_EGY/TzBW8KbPMQI/AAAAAAAAABM/th--BRkKSoE/s1600/IMG00419-20120206-1403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XEtO4PU_EGY/TzBW8KbPMQI/AAAAAAAAABM/th--BRkKSoE/s200/IMG00419-20120206-1403.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crochet heart</td></tr>
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<br />
So.... I decided to make my own. It came out pretty cute and did not take long to make so I thought I would share how I made it.<br />
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1. Find an old cardboard box and use a mixing bowl or any large bowl to trace a circle<br />
2. Measure 1 inch around that circle all the way around and cut it out. You will now have a cardboard ring that is 1 inch wide.<br />
3. Make a chain about 1 inch longer than the length of your ring.<br />
4. Single crochet in the chain and make 5 rows of single crochet (I used a J Hook)<br />
5. Use a tapestry needle and use the borders of the piece you just made to sew the piece onto the ring. I used some scotch tape to hold in it place and worked my way around the ring. The back side will look messy but that is okay.<br />
6.Once you get to the "top" where both ends of it meet attach it with the tapestry needle and use the extra to make a loop for it to hang from.<br />
7. Make some hearts, as many as you want, whatever sizes you want and attach them<br />
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I made an amigurumi heart which you can find the pattern many place but I used this one:<br />
<a href="http://easymakesmehappy.blogspot.com/2011/01/crochet-pattern-little-heart-plushy.html">http://easymakesmehappy.blogspot.com/2011/01/crochet-pattern-little-heart-plushy.html</a><br />
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(which by the way...I used crumpled toilet paper to stuff it since I didn't have cotton balls and didn't want to spend any $ on this project, you can see the white a little bit on mine but oh well)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8nhHidhUpVk/TzBXRYrq7LI/AAAAAAAAABc/WCgkxxEtvvI/s1600/IMG00421-20120206-1418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8nhHidhUpVk/TzBXRYrq7LI/AAAAAAAAABc/WCgkxxEtvvI/s200/IMG00421-20120206-1418.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amigurumi Crochet heart</td></tr>
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and I attached it to the top and made others of different color and sizes and just attached them where I thought fit. Here is the link to the page I used for the other hearts.<br />
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<a href="http://www.planetjune.com/blog/free-crochet-patterns/love-hearts/">http://www.planetjune.com/blog/free-crochet-patterns/love-hearts/</a><br />
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Unfortunately my camera is not the best but I took these pics to share<br />
(if anybody reads this..) and wants to make it and has trouble let me know and I will try to help.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s1P9WCnYfl0/TzBXkwD9THI/AAAAAAAAABk/zQ5N5i4y1nI/s1600/IMG00367-20120129-1921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s1P9WCnYfl0/TzBXkwD9THI/AAAAAAAAABk/zQ5N5i4y1nI/s320/IMG00367-20120129-1921.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Valentine's Day heart wreath</td></tr>
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Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-10883079938955679502012-02-06T14:17:00.000-08:002012-02-06T14:17:38.277-08:00My crochet virginityMy crochet cherry was popped! My first project was a scarf which I think is the best first project. I did a single crochet scarf with a J hook and added some fringe to the end. I didn't use a pattern I just kept going till it was the size I wanted. I used a multicolored yarn, I'm pretty sure it was Heart Saver brand. I regret going with the heart saver because it is not soft at all but still very pretty. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ps_5tu-wqn4/TzBRWsUX_DI/AAAAAAAAABE/vZcxdeMO0IM/s1600/IMG00283-20120116-0717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ps_5tu-wqn4/TzBRWsUX_DI/AAAAAAAAABE/vZcxdeMO0IM/s320/IMG00283-20120116-0717.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177181583988584303.post-47676345084797746832012-02-06T13:42:00.000-08:002012-02-06T15:41:22.577-08:00Hello Blogger!So I recently took up the art of crochet and while learning and searching for patterns I quickly realized that anyone who's anyone in the crochet community has a blog. Although (no offense) I didn't find many with the focus on projects that I would make personally. Which are FREE, trendy and not ridiculously difficult. So I figured why not make a blog and share my experiences. Also, I thought it would be a good way for me to keep track of my projects and maybe share it with others....(that is if anybody even reads it)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rU5AJD-ufCg/TzBQ4lPbT0I/AAAAAAAAAA8/0ODUyaRkaoI/s1600/yarn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="169" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rU5AJD-ufCg/TzBQ4lPbT0I/AAAAAAAAAA8/0ODUyaRkaoI/s320/yarn.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some beautiful colorful yarn</td></tr>
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While learning to crochet I ran into a big issue, one I didn't think would be one until I went to watch tutorials on how to crochet. I'm left handed. I managed to find some great left handed Youtube videos for when I was just learning to make a chain, SC, DC etc.<br />
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I overcame that small hurdle and now I have successfully completed many projects! I feel like I have a accomplished A LOT for a beginner, I don't mean to toot my own horn (but toot-toot!) I've only been at the hook for a month now and I can do: slip, single, halfdouble, double, triple, front & back post and puff stitch. WOOO! I've gone a little crazy with it. I'm going to document my projects and share them. <br />
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Thanks for reading! :)Frugal Fashionistahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02813444680377570577noreply@blogger.com0