Mermaid Shell Beanie (Adult)

H hook
5 oz Caron Simply Soft
Gauge: rnd 1 = 2"

Special stitches:
Beg trcl- ch 3, yo twice, insert hook into stitch indicated, pull up loop, *yo, pull through 2 loops. Repeat from* twice more. Beg trcl completed.

trcl- *yo twice, insert hook into stitch indicated, pull up loop, **yo, pull through 2 loops. Repeat from** once more. Repeat from * once. Yo, pull through all 3 loops. trcl completed.

Begin with magic circle.
Rnd 1: Beg trcl, 12 trcl into magic circle. Pull magic circle tightly closed, sl st into tr from beg trcl (13 cl)
Rnd 2: ch 3, dc, sc in same st. *2dc, sc in next st. Repeat from * 11 more times. Sl st into top of beg ch 3.
Rnd 3: ch 1, sc in same st, sk next st, *3 dc in next st, sc in next st, sk next st. Repeat from * 11 more times. End with 3 dc in next st, sl st into beg sc.
Rnd 4: ch 3, 2dc in same st, *sk next st, sc in next st, sk next st, 3 dc in next st. Repeat from * 11 more times. sk next st, sc in next st, sk next st, join with sl st in top of beg ch 3.
Rnd 5: sl st into next st, ch 1, sc in same st. *sk next st, 3 dc in next st, sk next st, sc in next st. Repeat from * 11 more times. sk next st, 3 dc in next st, sk next st, join with sl st in beg sc.
Rnds 6-7: Repeat rnds 4-5.
Rnd 8: ch 3, 4 dc in same st, *sk next st, sc in next st, sk next st, 5 dc in next st. Repeat from * 11 more times. sk next st, sc in next st, sk next st, join with sl st in top of beg ch 3.
Rnd 9: sl st into next 2 sts, ch 1, sc in same st. *sk next 2 sts, 5 dc in next st, sk next 2 sts, sc in next st. Repeat from * 11 more times. sk next 2 sts, 5 dc in next st, sk next 2 sts, join with sl st in beg sc
Rnd 10: ch 3, 4 dc in same st. *sk next 2 sts, sc in next st, sk next 2 sts, 5 dc in next st. Repeat from * 11 more times. sk next 2 sts, sc in next st, sk next 2 sts, join with sl st in top of beg ch 3.
Rnds 11-22: Repeat rnds 9-10
Rnds 23-24: ch 1, hdc in same st and each st around, join with sl st in beg hdc
Rnd 25: ch 1, sc in same st and each st around. Sl st into beg sc, fasten off. Weave in ends.

Super Hero Play Mask Crochet Patterns (Small and Large)

Toddler/small child super hero mask
G hook
Small amount worsted weight yarn
8"+ braided elastic (or length needed for custom fit)

Ch 25.
Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and across, ch 1, turn
Row 2: sc across, turn
Row 3: ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in next 2 sts, ch 10, sk next 8 sts, dc in next 2 sts, ch 10, sk next 8sts, dc in last 3 sts, turn
Row 4: ch 2 (counts as hdc), hdc in next st, dc in next st, dc in next 2 chs, 2 dc in each of the next 3 chs, dc in next 3 chs, 2 hdc in next ch, hdc in next ch, sc2tog over next 2 sts, hdc in next ch, 2 hdc in next ch, dc in next 3 chs, 2 dc in next 3 chs, dc in next 2 chs, dc in next st, hdc in next st, hdc in top ch of ch 3 from previous row, ch 1, do not turn.
Row 4 continued: Rotate work to continue along side. Sc 6 sts along side, rotate work and sc across in opposite side of beg ch, rotate work and work 6 sc evenly across last side. Sl st in next st and fasten off. Weave in ends. Attach elastic to each side of mask between rows 2 and 3, stretching elastic on end to tie, leaving little overhang. Folded flat in half, you want it to measure approximately 7" for a total circumference of 14" unstretched. Tie a tight double knot to secure.

Medium/Large Child-Adult
G hook
Small amount worsted weight yarn
8"+ braided elastic (or length needed for custom fit)

Ch 36.
Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and across, ch 1, turn
Row 2: sc across, turn
Row 3: ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in next 4 sts, ch 12, sk next 11 sts, dc in next st, tr in next st, dc in next st, ch 12, sk next 11 sts, dc in last 5 sts, turn
Row 4: ch 2 (counts as hdc), hdc in next 3 sts, dc in next st, dc in next 4 chs, 2 dc in each of the next 3 chs, dc in next 3 chs, 2 hdc in each of the next 2 chs, sc3tog over next 3 sts, 2 hdc in each of the next 2 chs, dc in next 3 chs, 2 dc in each of the next 3 chs, dc in next 4 chs, dc in next st, hdc in next 3 sts, hdc in top ch of ch 3 from previous row, ch 1, do not turn.
Row 4 continued: Rotate work to continue along side. Sc 6 sts along side, rotate work and sc across in opposite side of beg ch, rotate work and work 5 sc evenly across last side. Sl st in next st and fasten off. Weave in ends. Attach elastic to each side of mask between rows 2 and 3, stretching elastic on end to tie, leaving little overhang. Folded flat in half, you want it to measure approximately 8" for a total circumference of 16" unstretched. Tie a tight double knot to secure.

Flower Fairy & Mushroom Amigurumi (Free)

Today is my birthday and as my birthday present to you, here is Flower Fairy. I made the little basket with Easter in mind. I just love the look of the jelly beans. Yum! Of course, thank you Lotte for the idea!

Difficulty: This is an intermediate pattern, but the hair is difficult. I have been wanting to do this technique for a while, because I hate doing fringed hair. I am of course not the first, nor the last person to use this method of making hair. MyGurumi has an excellent tutorial for making hair. If you scroll down, you will see a method similar to the one I used. Her "troll with a short haired curly wig" has been made with the same concept. Please refer to that if you have trouble. http://mygurumi.blogspot.com/2008/10/how-to-amigurumi-hair.html

Also, like I have said before, if you are unfamiliar with the adjustable loop, it is also known as the Magic Ring. June Gilbank has an excellent tutorial. http://www.planetjune.com/blog/magic-ring-for-amigurumi/ If you are uncomfortable, please use the "ch 2, 6sc in 2nd ch from hook method instead through rnd 1.

Materials:
F hook
small amounts of Cream, Hot Pink, Hot Blue, Hot Green, Hot Orange, and White worsted weight yarn (I use Sugar'n Cream)
Stitch Markers
tapestry needle
2-6mm black amimal eyes


Notes: Parts are worked in continuous rounds without joining unless otherwise specified. Mark stitches to keep track of rows.

Hair:
Note: Hair is worked as a traditional sc circle, but with hair strands every 2 sts. Hair strands do not count as a st, so ignore them when working in "next sc." Work around hair strands, pulling them forward toward you.
With Hot Pink, Make adjustable loop, ch 1.
Rnd 1: [2 sc in loop, {ch 7, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc remaining 5 chs} hair strand made] 3 times (6sc, 3 hair strands)
Rnd 2: [2 sc in next sc of rnd 1, ch 7, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc remaining 5 chs] repeat around (12sc, 6 hair strands)
Rnd 3: [sc in next 2 sc of rnd 2, ch 7, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc remaining 5 chs, continuing rnd 3, sc in same st of rnd 2, sc in next sc, ch 7, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc remaining 5 chs, 2 sc in next sc of rnd 2, ch 7, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc remaining 5 chs] repeat around (18sc, 9 hair strands)
Rnd 4: [sc in next 2 sc of rnd 3, ch 7, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc remaining 5 chs, continuing rnd 4, 2 sc in next st of rnd 3, ch 7, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc remaining 5 chs] repeat around (24sc, 12 hair strands)
Rnd 5: [sc in next 2 sc of rnd 4, ch 10, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc remaining 8 chs] 8 times, [sc in next 2 sc of rnd 4, ch 7, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc remaining 5 chs] 4 times, sl st in beg sc, fasten off leaving a long tail for sewing (24sc, 8 long strands, 4 short strands)

Head & Body:
With Cream, Make adjustable loop, ch 1.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in loop, pull loop taut (6sc)
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around (12sc)
Rnd 3: [sc in next st, 2 sc in next st] repeat around (18sc)
Rnd 4: [sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st] repeat around (24sc)
Rnd 5-8: sc around (24 sts each rnd)
Rnd 9: [sc in next 2 sts, sc2tog] repeat around (18sc)
Rnd 10: [sc in next st, sc2tog] repeat around (12sc)
**Put safety eyes in between rnds 6 and 7 now if desired**
Rnd 11-12: sc around
Rnd 13: [sc in next st, 2 sc in next st] repeat around (18sc)
Rnd 14: sc in next 10 sts, 2 sc in next sc, sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 4 sts (20sc)
Rnd 15: sc in next 11 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 5 sts (22sc)
Rnd 16: sc in next 10 sts, [sc2tog] 4 times, sc in next 4 sts (18sc)
Rnd 17-24: sc around (18 sts each rnd)
**STUFF**
Rnd 25: [sc2tog] repeat around (9sc)
Rnd 26: [sc2tog] repeat around, sc in last st, sl st into next st, fasten off. Weave tail through each st of rnd 26, pull taut, knot to secure and weave in end (5sc)

Dress:
With Hot Green, Ch 24, join with sl st in 1st ch to create a ring, being careful not to twist ch.
Dress Skirt
Note: Beg ch 3 counts as dc.
Rnd 1-4: ch 3 (mark bottom of ch 3 where ring was formed), dc in each st around, join with sl st in top of beg ch 3 (24 sts each rnd)
Rnd 5: [{ch 4, sc in 2nd ch from hook, hdc in next ch, dc in next ch, sk next st of rnd 4, sl st in next st} point made] repeat around, make last sl st in sl st in top of ch 3 of rnd 4 (12 points)
Dress Bodice
Rnd 1: Working on other side of foundation ch, join with sl st in marked st, sc in same st, sc in each remaining st around (24sc)
Rnd 2: sc in next 11 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 9 sts (26sc)
Rnd 3: sc in next 12 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 10 sts (28sc)
Rnd 4: sc in next 11 sts, [sc2tog] 4 times, sc in next 9 sts (24sc)
Rnd 5: (sc in next 2 sts, sc2tog) twice, ch 5, sk next st, sc in next st, sc2tog, sc in next 2 sts, sc2tog, sc in next st, ch 5, sk next st, sc2tog in next st, sc in next 2 sts, sc2tog (13 sc, 2-ch5 spcs)

Wings:
With White, Ch 25, 2 dc in 4th ch from hook, dc in next st, hdc in next 5 sts, sc in next 8 sts, hdc in next 5 sts, dc in next st, 6 dc in next st, working on other side of foundation ch, dc in next st, hdc in next 5 sts, sc in next 8 sts, hdc in next 5 sts, dc in next st, 3 dc in next st, join with sl st in top of beg ch 3, fasten off.

Arms (Make 2):
With Cream, Make adjustable loop, ch 1.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in loop, pull loop taut (6sc)
Rnd 2-12: sc around, sl st into next st and fasten off leaving long tail for sewing at end of rnd 12 (6 sts each rnd)

Legs (Make 2):
With Cream, Make adjustable loop, ch 1.
Rnd 1: 8 sc in loop, pull loop taut (8sc)
Rnd 2-15: sc around, sl st into next st and fasten off leaving long tail for sewing at end of rnd 15 (8 sts each rnd)

Finishing: Weave tail in and out of sts of rnd 26 of body, pull taut and knot to secure. Sew hair to top of head, lining up 4 shorter hair strands in front for bangs, centered with bust, and tack down on all sides of head. Sew legs to bottom of body. Place dress on body, lining bust of body up with bust of dress. Weave tail through sts of rnd 12 of arms. Sew sides of arms to body through arm holes (straps) made in dress. Sew wings to back of body, sewing through dress and body to secure. Sew mouth to rnd 9 of face, using 2 strands of 4ply yarn or embroidery thread.

Mushroom:
With Hot Blue, Make adjustable loop, ch 1.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in loop, pull loop taut (6sc)
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around (12sc)
Rnd 3: [sc in next st, 2 sc in next st] repeat around (18sc)
Rnd 4: [sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st] repeat around (24sc)
Rnd 5: [sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st] repeat around (30sc)
Rnd 6: [sc in next 4 sts, 2 sc in next st] repeat around (36sc)
Rnd 7: [sc in next 5 sts, 2 sc in next st] repeat around (42sc)
Rnd 8-14: sc around (42 sts each rnd)
Rnd 15: [sc in next 5 sts, sc2tog] repeat around (36sc)
Rnd 16: [sc in next 4 sts, sc2tog] repeat around, sl st into next st, fasten off, leaving long tail for sewing (30sc)
Large Spot (Make 2):
With White, Make adjustable loop, ch 1.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in loop, pull loop taut (6sc)
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around (12sc)
Rnd 3: [sc in next st, 2 sc in next st] repeat around, sl st into next st, fasten off leaving long tail for sewing (18sc)
Small Spot (Make 2):
With White, Make adjustable loop, ch 1.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in loop, pull loop taut (6sc)
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around, fasten off leaving long tail for sewing (12sc
**Sew Spots to Mushroom, alternating between large and small.**
Bottom of Mushroom:
With White, Make adjustable loop, ch 1.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in loop, pull loop taut (6sc)
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around (12sc)
Rnd 3: [sc in next st, 2 sc in next st] repeat around (18sc)
Rnd 4: [sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st] repeat around (24sc)
Rnd 5: [sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st] repeat around (30sc)
Rnd 6-8 sc around, sl st into next st and fasten off at end of rnd 8 (30 sts each rnd)
**Begin sewing bottom of mushroom to top, leaving an opening for stuffing. Place pennies in bottom of mushroom before closing up to give it some weight and stability if desired.**

Basket:
With Hot Orange, Make adjustable loop, ch 1.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in loop, pull loop taut (6sc)
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around (12sc)
Rnd 3: [sc in next st, 2 sc in next st] repeat around (18sc)
Rnd 4: [sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st] repeat around (24sc)
Rnd 5-7: sc around, sl st into next st (24sc)
Rnd 8 (handle): ch 15, sk next 12 sts, sl st in next st being careful not to twist ch, sl st in next st, ch 1, sc in each of the next 15 chs, sl st in next st of rnd 7, fasten off.

Looking For Ideas...

I want to design a new ami for Easter and/or Spring. I am going to post it as a free pattern here, so please let me know what you would like to see. I am trying to stay away from the traditional rabbit or egg, because there are so many out there already. :)

What I've Been Making

Though I haven't been busy making up new patterns lately, I've been quite busy stitching. Here's some of what I've made recently! :)

Featured Blog

Every now and then you just have to give it up for the creative people out there! This is one of those moments. It's a good thing I didn't have liquid in my mouth when I saw this picture. I really had a good laugh from this one!

Copyright: Spindles and Spices on Blogspot

Check out her blog: http://spindlesandspices.blogspot.com/

Carrot Cake TP Cosy

Materials:
small amount of aran/off white worsted weight yarn
small amount of tan, reddish brown, or other appropriate color worsted weight yarn
scrap amounts of green and orange worsted weight yarn for carrots
g hook
tapestry needle
washable fabric glue if desired

Stitches and abbreviations:
beg=beginning
flo=front loop only
blo=back loop only
hdc=half double crochet
fpdc=front post double crochet
beg popcorn=ch 3, 4 dc in same st, remove hook from loop and insert from front to back through 1st dc, with 1st dc on hook insert hook back through loop, pull loop through first dc, ch 1.
popcorn=5 dc in indicated st, remove hook from loop and insert from front to back through 1st dc, with 1st dc on hook insert hook back through loop, pull loop through first dc, ch 1.

Notes: ch 2 counts as hdc, ch 3 counts as dc.

TOP
With aran, ch 3.
Rnd 1: 8 hdc in 3rd ch from hook, join with sl st in top of beg ch 2 (9 hdc).
Rnd 2: Ch 2, hdc in same st, 2 hdc in each remaining st, join with sl st in top of beg ch 2 (18 hdc).
Rnd 3: Ch 2, 2 hdc in next st, (hdc in next st, 2 hdc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in top of beg ch 2 (27 hdc).
Rnd 4: Ch 2, hdc in next st, 2 hdc in next st, (hdc in next 2 sts, 2 hdc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in top of beg ch 2 (36 hdc).
Rnd 5: Ch 2, hdc in next 2 sts, 2 hdc in next st, (hdc in next 3 sts, 2 hdc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in top of beg ch 2 (45 hdc).
Rnd 6: Ch 2, hdc in next 3 sts, 2 hdc in next st, (hdc in next 4 sts, 2 hdc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in top of beg ch 2 (54 hdc).
Rnd 7: beg popcorn in flo of first st, sc in flo of next st, (popcorn in flo of next st, sc in flo of next st) repeat around, join with sl st in beg popcorn, fasten off (27 popcorn, 27 sc).

CAKE/SIDES:
With tan/brown, join with sl st in any back loop of rnd 7 of top.
Rnd 8: Ch 3, dc in blo of each remaining st, join with sl st in top of beg ch 3. (54 dc).
Rnd 9-19: Ch 3, (fpdc around next st, dc in next st) repeat around, ending with a fpdc, join with sl st in top of beg ch 3 (27 dc, 27 fpdc).
Rnd 20: ch 1, sc in each st around, join with sl st in 1st sc, fasten off (54 sc).

WHIP CREAM:
With aran, ch 15. hdc in 3rd ch from hook, 2hdc in each remaining st, fasten off leaving long tail for sewing. Arrange whip cream in a spiral and sew across bottom to hold shape. Sew whip cream to center of top.

CARROTS (make 8):
With orange, ch 5, sl st in 2nd ch from hook, sc in next 2 sts, hdc in next st, fasten off. For stem, attach a 3" piece of green yarn to one loop in the side of the last hdc made as you would when attaching fringe (fold the yarn in half, pull the loop through, insert the loose ends through, then pull tight). Trim stem and fray/separate strands with a tapestry needle. Sew or use fabric glue too attach carrots as shown in picture. To make it easier, arrange carrots as they will lay once attached, then pin them if sewing or pick them up one by one and glue them into place.

What I've Been Up To

I love to crochet, but who doesn't need a small break now and then? I've done a little bit of sewing and most recently, made some soap.

Here is a Halloween ragdoll I desperately need to finish! Her name is Gorgona, inspired by Greek Mythology (check out this if you want to know more http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gorgon). It's almost October now! EEk. The fabric she is laying on will be her dress. I have had a lot of fun making her and will actually keep her. Me, keep something I made? Wow.


And some dragonfly soap. It's unscented, except for the dried lavender I added, but it DOES have a bit of a soap smell. I am giving away these two on Crochetville, one each to two different people. If you are interested, please go to the Giveaway thread under "A Little Something Different" to express your interest.

Settling In

It was a long drive! We had to make a few stops along the way, but I don't think my son Ben minded at all. We found an awesome rest stop in Illinois!


Now that we're here Ben can play outside, in weather not nearly as hot as Missouri. Ohio is about 20 degrees cooler. Just not looking forward to the winters. Ben says, "Bye, going to Wal-Mart to get milk!" (I kid you not.)


One good thing about the nice weather here, I don't mind getting down on the pavement to do a little bit of "art." Ben likes Sponge Bob, though we never watch the show, so I drew him a little something.


Chalk-Eater Max (our pup)!

Moving is...

I hate moving. I hate packing. I hate unpacking. We just moved over 800 miles from Missouri to Ohio. However, I am glad we moved, because things will be better for us in the long run (better already in fact). We just have a lot of job searching to do. >.< But it won't take long. :)

Just A Note...

I recently put the comments on my blog on moderation, because I was receiving a lot of spam... some of which apparently contained links to innappropriate websites. So, I'm sorry. I will try to remember to come in and approve messages promptly. :)

Monkey Soda Can Cozy

Note: Many people have asked me what an adjustable loop is. It is a method used to eliminate the gap in the center of your work that is sometimes created when working in the round. It is also known as the magic ring. June Gilbank of Planet June has an excellent tutorial. http://www.planetjune.com/blog/magic-ring-for-amigurumi/ If you are not comfortable with the method, please feel free to replace adjustable loop with: ch 2, sc # specified in 2nd ch from hook for single crochet in the round OR ch 4, dc # specified in 4th ch from hook for double crochet in the round (the beginning ch 3 would count as your 1st dc).

Materials:
1.5 oz brown worsted weight cotton
small amount tan worsted weight cotton
small amount black embroidery floss or yarn
H hook
F hook
2 buttons
tapestry needle

Cozy:
With H hook and brown cotton, make an adjustable loop.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in loop, pull loop taut. (6sc)
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around. (12sc)
Rnd 3: (sc in next st, 2 sc in next st) repeat around. (18sc)
Rnd 4: (sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around. (24sc)
Rnd 5: (sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around. (30sc)
Rnds 6-24: sc in each st around, sl st in next st at end of rnd 24 (30sc each rnd).
Rnd 25: rev sc around, fasten off and weave in ends.

Ears (make 2):
With F hook and brown cotton, ch 2.
Row 1: 6sc in 2nd ch from hook, ch 1, turn. (6sc)
Row 2: 2 sc in each st across, fasten off leaving long tail for sewing. (12sc)

Eyes (make 2):
With F hook and tan cotton, make an adjustable loop.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in loop, pull loop taut. (6sc)
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around. (12sc)
Rnd 3: (sc in next st, 2 sc in next st) repeat around, sl st in next st, fasten off leaving long tail for sewing. (18sc)


Mouth:With F hook and tan cotton, ch 9.
Rnd 1: 2 sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc in next 6 sts, 3 sc in next st, working on opposite side of foundation ch sc across. (18sc)
Rnd 2: 2 sc in next 2 sts, sc in next 6 sts, 2 sc in next 3 sts, sc in next 6 sts, 2 sc in next st, sl st in next st, fasten off leaving long tail for sewing. (24sc)

Finishing: Sew buttons on centers of eyes. Sew mouth and nose on mouth piece. Sew on ears on either side of cozy on rnds 14-17 (if you lay it flat it is easier to determine where to sew ears). Sew mouth centered between ears on rnds 10-13. Sew eyes on rnds 15-21.

Your Navel Is Showing!

Okay, I don't fully understand the obsession with apple cozies, but they are kind of cute I admit. Orange you glad I didn't make one? Nope, it's an orange cozy instead.

Materials:
H hook
small amounts worsted weight cotton in color a and color b
2 stitch markers (scrap yarn or what you have on hand is fine)
button
tapestry needle

Abbreviations:
blo=back loop only

Note: Do not turn unless otherwise noted. When working stitches to marked st in row 9, make last st in the marked st. In row 9 you will join with a dc instead of a sl st and ch 3. This is also called invisible joining/beginning. Please view this tutorial for more information.

With color A, ch 24, join with sl st in 1st ch to form a ring.
Row 1: sc in 1st ch and around, join with sl st in 1st sc, ch 1 (24 sc).
Row 2: (sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in 1st sc, ch 1 (30 sc).
Row 3: (sc in next 4 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in 1st sc, ch 1 (36 sc).
Row 4: (sc in next 5 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in 1st sc, fasten off color A (42 sc).
Row 5: join with sl st in next st with color B, ch 3, dc in next st and around, join with sl st in top of beg ch 3 (42 dc).
Row 6-7: ch 3, dc in next st in blo and around, join with sl st in top of beg ch 3, fastening off color B at end of row 7 (42 dc).
Row 8: join in previous st with color A, ch 1, sc in same st and in each st around, join with sl st in 1st sc, ch 1 (42 sc).
Row 8: sc in next 5 sts, sc2tog over next 2 sts, sc in next 4 sts (place marker 1 in last st just made), sc in next st, sc2tog over next 2 sts, (sc in next 5 sts, sc2tog over next 2 sts) twice, place marker 2 in st just made, (sc in next 5 sts, sc2tog over next 2 sts) twice, join with sl st in 1st sc, fasten off (36 sc).
Row 9: Join with dc in color A in st where marker 2 was placed, dc in each st to marker 1, **begin strap** ch 13, dc in 4th ch from and across, join with sl st at bottom of last dc made before beginning strap (where it meets row 8), fasten off.

Finishing: Weave in all ends. Attach button to opposite side of strap, in the 1st and 2nd st of row 9.

Cookie Monster Pillow

Cookie Monster Pillow

Materials:
H hook
F hook
fun fur/eyelash yarn in blue
worsted weight yarn in blue
worsted weight yarn in white
worsted weight yarn in black
Two 18mm black animal eyes
Small amount of stuffing
tapestry needle


Front/Back (Make 2):
Holding strands of worsted weight yarn and fun fur together and using H hook, ch 4.
Rnd 1: 11dc in 4th ch from hook, join with sl st in top of beg ch 3, ch 3 (12 dc).
Rnd 2: dc in same st, 2 dc in each remaining st around, join with sl st in top of beg ch 3, ch 3 (24 dc).
Rnd 3: 2 dc in next st, (dc in next st, 2 dc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in top of beg ch 3, ch 3 (36 dc).
Rnd 4: dc in next st, 2 dc in next st, (dc in next 2 sts, 2 dc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in top of beg ch 3, ch 3 (48 dc).
Rnd 5: dc in next 2 sts, 2 dc in next, (dc in next 3 sts, 2 dc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in top of beg ch 3, end off and weave in ends (60 dc).

Mouth:
With black worsted weight yarn and using f hook, ch 4.
Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc in same st, 2 sc in next 2 sts, ch 1, turn (6 sc).
Row 2: (sc in next st, 2 sc in next st) repeat across, ch 1, turn (9 sc).
Row 3: (sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat across, ch 1, turn (12 sc).
Row 4: (sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat across, ch 1, turn (15 sc).
Row 5: (sc in next 4 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat across, ch 1, turn (18 sc).
Row 6: 2 sc in 1st st, sc in next 5 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 4 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 5 sts, 2 sc in next st, ch 1, turn (22 sc).
Row 7: 2 sc in 1st st, sc in next 7sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 4 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 7 sts, 2 sc in next st, ch 1, turn (26 sc).
Row 8: sc across, 2sc in corner, sc in each row across top of mouth, join with sl st in 1st sc of row 8, end off leaving long tail for sewing.

Eyes:
With white worsted weight yarn and using F hook, make an adjustable loop.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in loop (6 sc).
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around (12 sc).
Rnd 3: (sc in next st, 2 sc in next st) repeat around (18 sc).
Rnd 4: (sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in next st, end off leaving long tail for sewing (24 sc).

Finishing:
Position eyes to top of pillow, allowing them to hang over the top edge a bit. Place animal eyes between rounds 2 and 3 of eyes, one toward the top and one toward the bottom to give him that goofy cookie monster look (use picture as a guide), pushing the animal eye through both the eye and pillow front, attach washer to back to secure (OPTIONAL CROCHET EYE PUPIL BELOW). Sew eye securely by weaving in and out around edge, except at top of eye where it hangs over, where you will weave in and out a row lower, being sure to not sew too tightly giving it a misshapen appearance. Pulling on yarn slowly when attaching eye allows less fun fur to poke through. Sew mouth below eyes as picture using same method. With right sides together, sew front and back 3/4 of the way and flip. Stuff pillow and finish sewing.

Alternative Eye Pupils:
With black worsted weight yarn and using F hook, make an adjustable loop.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in loop (6 sc).
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around, sl st in next st, end off leaving long tail for sewing (12 sc).

Pig In the City

Materials:
small amounts of worsted weight yarn in pink or peach (color A)
darker sweater color (color B)
lighter sweater color (color C)
2- 9mm black ami eyes (optional)
F hook
tapestry needle
stuffing
small amount of black yarn or embroidery floss


Notes: If you are not comfortable with making an adjustable loop, you can ch 2 and make sc's in 2nd ch from hook. At the end of each color you can sl st into next st and end off and join with the new color near the last st, or make a color change (depending on your crocheting ability). If you wish, you can use one darker color for color B and color C.


Body (working from top of head to bottom of body):
Starting at top of body, with color A make an adjustable loop.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in loop, pull loop taut. (6sc)
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around. (12sc)
Rnd 3: (sc in next st, 2 sc in next st) repeat around. (18sc)
Rnd 4: (sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around. (24sc)
Rnd 5: (sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around. (30sc)
Rnds 6-12: sc in each st around, ending color A at end of rnd 12. (30sc each rnd)
Rnd 13: change to color B, sc around. (30sc)
Rnd 14: change to color C, sc around. (30sc)
Rnd 15: sc around. (30sc)
Rnd 16: change to color B, sc around. (30sc)
Rnd 17: change to color C, sc around. (30sc)
Rnd 18: sc around. (30sc)
Rnd 19: change to color B, sc around, sl st into next st, end off leaving long tail for sewing. (30sc)


Bottom of body:
Starting at bottom of body, with color A make an adjustable loop.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in loop, pull loop taut. (6sc)
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around. (12sc)
Rnd 3: (sc in next st, 2 sc in next st) repeat around. (18sc)
Rnd 4: (sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around. (24sc)
Rnd 5: (sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around. (30sc)
Rnds 6-8: sc in each st around, sl st into next st and end off at end of rnd 8. (30sc)

Ears (make 2):
With color A make an adjustable loop.
Rnd 1: 4 sc in loop, pull loop taut. (4sc)
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around. (8sc)
Rnd 3: sc around. (8sc)
Rnd 4: (sc in next st, 2 sc in next st) repeat around. (12sc)
Rnd 5: (sc in next st, 2 sc in next st) repeat around. (18sc)
Rnd 6: dec around, sl st into next st, end off leaving long tail for sewing. (9sc)


Snout:
With color A make an adjustable loop.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in loop, pull loop taut. (6sc)
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around, sl st in next st, end off leaving tail for sewing. (12sc)


Arms (make 2):
With color A make an adjustable loop.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in loop, pull loop taut. (6sc)
Rnd 2-3: sc around. (6sc each rnd)
Rnd 4: change to color B, sc around. (6sc)
Rnd 5: change to color C, sc around. (6sc)
Rnd 6: sc around. (6sc)
Rnd 7: change to color B, sc around, sl st into next st and end off leaving tail for sewing. (6sc)


Legs (make 2):
With color A make an adjustable loop.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in loop, pull loop taut. (6sc)
Rnd 2-8: sc around, sl st into next st and end off leaving tail for sewing later at end of rnd 8. (6sc each rnd)


Tail:
With color A ch 5, 2 sc in 2nd ch from hook and each remaining ch, end off leaving tail for sewing.


Assembly: Place ami eyes between rnds 6 and 7 on front of body (opposite side of ends/beginnings of rows), with 5 visible sts in between them. Sew snout in center of eyes on rnds 7-10. With black yarn or embroidery floss sew mouth below snout and then two verticle straight sts on either side of rnd 1 of snout. Sew ears level with eyes on either side of head. Sew arms to either side of top of body between rnds 12 and 13. Sew bottom of body to top of body halfway, stuff, and then finish sewing around. Attach legs between rnds 6 and 7 of bottom of body. Attach tail to back of bottom of body just below sweater.

2010 HFA Fiber Fair

This past Saturday we went to a fiber fair in Marshfield, MO. It was the first that I had ever been to and it was a ton of fun. They had animals for the children to enjoy, food, and crafts and yarn for sale. There was a crochet and knit speed contest, but I didn't bring a hook for the crochet contest and didn't want to stay that late. Hopefully next year I can participate! :D Here are a few pictures. (Please forgive the dreary, rainy atmosphere.)\

http://www.hfafiberfair.com/fairarchives.htm

New addition to stash (my mother bought it from a private vendor)!

A lady spinning straight from an angora on her lap!

Little Lambs

Alpaca

Alpacas

**Wipes Sweat From Forehead**

Recently I took on the arduous task of raising a puppy. We got him from my SIL about 2 weeks ago. Needless to say, it's been a ride. It was just not a good time for me, but she wanted to get the puppies out of her house (can't say I blame her, there were several). While potty training my new pup, I've been struggling to get my last bit of school work done for this college semester and I've been trying to clean the house. It was really stressful at first, but I've started to relax. Puppies are very stinky little creatures though. It takes a lot of cleaning to ensure your house doesn't smell like a kennel. I also have to take great measures to keep my yarn away from him, he has cat blood in him I believe! ;) Overall, it's just like having a new baby that sheds and you can't put diapers on. LOL

Chunky Bunny

Materials:
One 200g ball of Marble Chunky yarn (bulky yarn)
J hook
tapestry needle
black yarn or other embellishments desired for face


Note: Pieces are worked in the round, mark your stitches and do not join unless otherwise noted.


HEAD
Ch 2.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook.
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around.
Rnd 3 : (sc in next st, 2 sc in next st) repeat around.
Rnd 4: (sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around.
Rnd 5: (sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around.
Rnd 6: (sc in next 4 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around.
Rnd 7: (sc in next 5 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around.
Rnd 8: (sc in next 6 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around.
Rnd 9: (sc in next 7 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around.
Rnd 10: (sc in next 8 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around.
Rnds 11-15: sc around.
Rnd:16: (sc in next 8 sts, sc2tog over next 2 sts) repeat around.
Rnd 17: (sc in next 7 sts, sc2tog over next 2 sts) repeat around.
Rnd 18: (sc in next 6 sts, sc2tog over next 2 sts) repeat around.
Rnd 19: (sc in next 5 sts, sc2tog over next 2 sts) repeat around.
Rnd 20: (sc in next 4 sts, sc2tog over next 2 sts) repeat around.
Rnd 21: (sc in next 3 sts, sc2tog over next 2 sts) repeat around.
Rnd 22: (sc in next 2 sts, sc2tog over next 2 sts) repeat around.
**Stuff Here, or sooner if needed.**
Rnd 23: (sc in next st, sc2tog over next 2 sts) repeat around.
Rnd 24: (sc2tog over next 2 sts) repeat around, join with sl st in next st, fasten off leaving long tail. Weave tail through each st of rnd 24 and pull taut to close hole, knot and weave in tail.


BODY
Ch2.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook.
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around.
Rnd 3 : (sc in next st, 2 sc in next st) repeat around.
Rnd 4: (sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around.
Rnd 5: (sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around.
Rnd 6: (sc in next 4 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around.
Rnd 7: (sc in next 5 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around.
Rnd 8: (sc in next 6 sts, 2 sc in next st) repeat around.
Rnds 9-12: sc around.
Rnd13: (sc in next 6 sts, sc2tog over next 2 sts) repeat around.
Rnds 14-17: sc around.
Rnd 18: (sc in next 5 sts, sc2tog over next 2 sts) repeat around.
Rnds 19-22: sc around.
Rnd 23: (sc in next 4 sts, sc2tog over next 2 sts) repeat around.
Rnds 24-26: sc around
Rnd 27: (sc in next 3 sts, sc2tog over next 2 sts) repeat around, join with sl st in next st and fasten off, leaving long tail for sewing.


ARMS (Make 2)
Ch 2.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook.
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around.
Rnds 3-24: sc around, join with sl st in next st at end of rnd 24 and fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.


LEGS (Make 2)
Ch 2.
Rnd 1: 8 sc in 2nd ch from hook.
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around.
Rnds 3-24: sc around, join with sl st in next st at end of rnd 24 and fasten off, leaving long tail for sewing.


EARS (Make 2)
Ch 2.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook.
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around.
Rnd 3 : (sc in next st, 2 sc in next st) repeat around.
Rnds 4-20: sc around.
Rnd 21:(sc in next st, sc2tog over next 2 sts) repeat around, join with sl st in next st and fasten off, leaving long tail for sewing.


TAIL
Ch 2.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook.
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around.
Rnds 3-6: sc around.
Rnd 7: (sc in next st, sc2tog over next 2 sts) repeat around, join with sl st n next st and fasten off, leaving long tail for sewing.


ASSEMBLY: Stuff body tightly enough to support head and sew to bottom of head (sew partially and continue to stuff or head might flop). Stuff arms, legs, and tail lightly and sew to body. Do not stuff ears, sew to top of head. Stitch face if desired.

"Baby Tomato" Newborn Cap

Materials:
2oz red worsted weight cotton
small amount green worsted weight cotton
G hook


Gauge: rnds 1-3 measure 2"

Finished size: 5" from top center to bottom edge when laying flat, not including brim. 6 3/4" from side to side of bottom edge, not including brim.

Abbreviations:
flo=front loop only
hdc2tog (hdc dec)=yarn over, insert hook in specified stitch, yarn over, pull up loop, yarn over, insert in next st, yarn over, pull up loop, yarn over, pull through all loops.


With Red, ch 2.
Rnd 1: 9 hdc in 2nd ch from hook, join with sl st in 1st hdc (9).
Rnd 2: 2 hdc in each st around (18).
Rnd 3: (hdc in next st, 2 hdc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in 1st hdc (27).
Rnd 4: (hdc in next 2 sts, 2 hdc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in 1st hdc (36).
Rnd 5: (hdc in next 3 sts, 2 hdc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in 1st hdc (45).
Rnd 6: (hdc in next 4 sts, 2 hdc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in 1st hdc (54).
Rnd 7-?: hdc around, join with sl st in 1st hdc, fasten off, weave in ends (54 each rnd).


Brim:
Row 1: Join with a sl st in flo several sts away from last st so that beg and ends of previous rows are not directly in front. ch 1, hdc in flo of same st and next 21 sts.
Row 2: ch 1, hdc2tog over next 2 sts, hdc in next 18 sts, hdc2tog over next 2 sts, do not fasten off.


Border:
Rnd 17: ch 1, sc in the side of the next 2 rows, sl st in corner where row 1 of brim and rnd 14 meet, sl st in next 3 sts, sc in next st, hdc in next 24 sts, sc in next st, sl st in next 3 sts, sl st in corner where row 1 of brim and rnd 14 meet, sc in the side of next two rows, 2 hdc in next corner, hdc in next 20 sts of edge of brim, 2 hdc in next st, join with sl st in 1st sc, end off, weave in ends.


Stem:
With Green, ch 2.
Rnd 1: 9 sc in 2nd ch from hook (9).
Rnd 2-4: sc around, join with sl st in next st at end of rnd 4 (9 each rnd)
Rnd 5: (ch 6, sc in 2nd ch from hook and next st, hdc in next 2 sts, dc in next st, sl st in flo of next st of rnd 4) repeat around, fasten off, weave in ends. Sew stem to hat between rnds 1 and 2 of hat, sewing through back loops of stem. Tack down leaves.

Cotton Newborn Cap

Materials:
2oz worsted weight cotton
G hook

Gauge: rnds 1-3 measure 2"

Finished size: 5" from top center to bottom edge when laying flat, not including brim. 6 3/4" from side to side of bottom edge, not including brim.

Abbreviations:
flo=front loop only
hdc2tog (hdc dec)=yarn over, insert hook in specified stitch, yarn over, pull up loop, yarn over, insert in next st, yarn over, pull up loop, yarn over, pull through all loops.

Note: If desired (for effect pictured), make color changes at rnds 10, and 13.

Ch 2.

Rnd 1: 9 hdc in 2nd ch from hook, join with sl st in 1st hdc (9).
Rnd 2: 2 hdc in each st around, join with sl st in 1st hdc (18).
Rnd 3: (hdc in next st, 2 hdc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in 1st hdc (27).
Rnd 4: (hdc in next 2 sts, 2 hdc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in 1st hdc (36).
Rnd 5: (hdc in next 3 sts, 2 hdc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in 1st hdc (45).
Rnd 6: (hdc in next 4 sts, 2 hdc in next st) repeat around, join with sl st in 1st hdc (54).
Rnd 7-14: hdc around, join with sl st in 1st hdc, fasten off at end of rnd 14, weave in ends (54 each rnd).

Brim:
Row 1: Join with a sl st in flo several sts away from last st so that beg and ends of previous rows are not directly in front. ch 1, hdc in flo of same st and next 21 sts, ch 1, turn.
Row 2: hdc2tog over next 2 sts, hdc in next 18 sts, hdc2tog over next 2 sts, do not fasten off.

Border:
Rnd 17: ch 1, sc in the side of the next 2 rows, sl st in corner where row 1 of brim and rnd 14 meet, sl st in next 3 sts, sc in next st, hdc in next 24 sts, sc in next st, sl st in next 3 sts, sl st in corner where row 1 of brim and rnd 14 meet, sc in the side of next two rows, 2 hdc in next corner, hdc in next 20 sts of edge of brim, 2 hdc in next st, join with sl st in 1st sc, end off, weave in ends.