Crochet Toilet Paper cozy that looks like a roll of toilet paper

I hope this crocheted toilet paper cozy that looks like a roll of toilet paper makes you laugh as much as it make me laugh. It seems like a good time to share this throw back craft, after all I think we need all the laughter we can get.

I was on a tp cozy making kick for awhile as I don't have much storage space in my bathroom so I thought fun tp cozies would be the answer. I was chatting with a friend about this and somehow the idea of making a tp cozy that looked like a roll of toilet paper would be funny.

So as a crocheter I decided to crochet a TP cozy that looked like a roll of toilet paper.

If you think this is a funny idea too here is the pattern I used originally posted over at Craftside. There are some funny comments on my original post.


To make your own TP cozy you'll need:
Materials
Gray worsted weight yarn
White Worsted weight yarn
size H crochet hook
yarn needle

How to crochet the roll of toilet paper cozy:
With the gray yarn:
Chain 4 and slip stitch to join
Chain 1
About 15 sc into circle and join
chain 1
single crochet around again, about every 3rd or 4th stitch do a second sc in the same loop. This will increase the size of the circle allowing it to stay flat. Adjust number of stitches as needed to lay flat.
Cut gray yarn and weave in the end.
With the white yarn:
SC around gray circle every few stitches doing two sc in one loop. Join each circle, then chain 1 and repeat until you have a circle the size of your roll of toilet paper. For me this was about 6 rows (circles)
For the side:
Chain 15
Chain 1 and sc into second to last stitch.
SC back into every chain stitch, chain 1, turn and sc back into every stitch. Adjust number of stitches as needed for your roll of toilet paper.
Repeat until you have a strip long enough to go around the entire roll of toilet paper plus a few inches to fall open. For me it was about 20 inches.
Stitch the top to the sides and then join the beginning of the side strip under the falling open end.
Weave in all the ends.

Giggle appropriately.

Fancy Shamrock Crochet pattern from the book The Complete Photo Guide to Crochet 2nd Edition

I love crafting for holidays and it's never to soon to start making little embellishments like this fancy shamrock for the book The Complete Photo Guide to Crochet, 2nd Edition for St. Patrick's Day.

F A N C Y  S H A M R O C K

Skill Level: Intermediate

Ch 6, join with a Sl st to form a ring.

Rnd 1: Work 18 sc in ring, join with Sl st to first sc.

Rnd 2: Ch 1 (counts as first sc now and throughout), skip first

sc, 1 sc in each sc around, join with Sl st to beg ch-1.

Rnd 3: Ch 1, skip first ch, 1 sc in each of next 5 sc, [ch 10,

1 sc in each of next 6] twice, ch 12, join with Sl st to beg ch-1.

Rnd 4: Ch 1, skip first ch, 1 sc in each of next 4 sc, [22 sc

in next ch-10 space, 1 sc in each next 5 sc] twice, 24 sc next

ch-12 space, join with Sl st to beg ch-1.

Rnd 5: Ch 1, 1 sc in next 4 sc, *[ch 4, skip 2 sc, Sl st next

sc] 7 times, sc in next 5 sc, rep from * once, [ch 4, skip 2 sc,

Sl st next sc] 8 times, join with a Sl st to beg ch-1.

Rnd 6: Ch 1, skip next sc, 1 sc in next sc, [5 sc in next ch-4

space] 7 times, skip next 2 sc, Sl st in next sc, ch 18 for stem,

1 sc in 3rd ch from hook, 1 sc in each of next 15 ch, Sl st

in next sc on Main Motif, [5 sc in next ch-4 space] 7 times,

skip next 2 sc, 1 sc in next sc, skip next 2 sc, [5 sc next ch 4

space] 8 times, join with a Sl st in first sc, end off.

More about the CPi book:

The Complete Photo Guide to Crochet, 2nd Edition

*All You Need to Know to Crochet *The Essential Reference for Novice and Expert Crocheters *Comprehensive Guide to Crochet Tools and Techniques *Packed with Hundreds of Tips and Ideas *Step-by-Step Instructions for 220 Stitch Patterns

By Margaret Hubert
This is a comprehensive reference book on all aspects of crochet.
This book provides a reference for all methods, including Tunisian, intermeshing, broomstick lace, hairpin lace, and freeform crochet.
Includes step-by-step instructions for all the basic stitches and swatches of 100s of stitch patterns with completeinstructions. Now with:

• 15 all new projects
• 20 new stitch patterns (220 in all)
• Expanded basics
• Hundreds of tips and ideas

Margaret Hubert designs for yarn companies and book and magazine publishers including Crochet, Interweave Press, Quick and Easy Crochet, Crochet Fantasy, and Belle Armoire. She teaches at yarn shops, retreats, and national gatherings and rarely misses a national conference in the needle arts field. Among her specialties, she is a master at freeform crochetand knitting. She is the author of many books and currently resides in Pawling, NY. Visit her online at http://www.margarethubertoriginals.com and http://margaretshooksandneedles.blogspot.com.

How to make a knit and crochet heart purse with pom pom handle for Valentine's Day

I found this cute heart purse in my box of Valentine's Day decorations and for the life of me I can't find anywhere I posted the tutorial for it. So I thought I'd share it to the best of my recollection.

I'm pretty sure I would have started from the bottom point and did increases on each knit side working in stockinette stitch until I was happy with the the width and height of the heart.

Then to create the top two curves, working each separately decreases to create curves as desired.

Repeat for the second heart.


Seam the two knit hearts together with a chain crochet stitch using an eyelash yarn. Work the top inside "V" areas separately so you can put stuff in your heart purse.

To make the handle thread pom poms onto pieces of coated wire. Link the ends of the wire to the top of the heart where you left the purse opening.

A great book I recomend for all sorts of knitting tutorials and patterns is:

The Complete Photo Guide to Knitting, 2nd Edition: *All You Need to Know to Knit *The Essential Reference for Novice and Expert Knitters *Packed with Hundreds of Crafty Tips and Ideas *Step-by-Step Instructions and Photos for 200 Stitch Patterns
by
Margaret Hubert 



Looking for the perfect book on knitting? It's right here in The Complete Photo Guide to Knitting, 2nd Edition. This stitch guide is the ultimate knitting reference! A comprehensive how-to book about all aspects of knitting, you'll be making scarves, hats, socks, mittens, sweaters, and other projects in no time! Inside this ultimate knitting guide you will find expanded basics for all knitting techniques, from cast-on to bind-off and every step in between. Learn to knit row by row and in the round; understand knitting jargon and how to follow a pattern; learn all the methods for increasing and decreasing stitches, seaming, and adding details like pockets and zippers. With twenty new stitch patterns, this section expands to 220 in all, arranged in style categories for easy reference. Projects at the end of each section give you opportunities to try some of the new techniques you've learned while making knitted items you can use or gift to others. Margaret Hubert will guide you through special knitting topics like cables, intarsia, entrelac, Fair Isle knitting, and lace knitting. With the updated information and all new projects, even if you have the first edition you are sure to want the second edition to complete your collection.

Me and Jane Doe Amineko hangin' in the Lion Brand Booth at CHA Show 2015

 

Jane Doe Amineko and I had a great time at the Craft and Hobby Show this year. The photo op in the Lion Brand booth with the giant knit hashtage was THE photo op of the show!

If you need to crochet up your very own amineko and then take fun photos grab yourself a copy the adorable book:

Hello My Name is Amineko: The Story of a Crafty Crochet Cat

by

Nekoyama

 Hello My Name is Amineko follows the journey of Amineko the Crochet Cat and his crocheted friends as they eat, sleep, and have lots of fun and adventures. The book comes with complete step-by-step photography and instructions for creating an Amineko of your very own and personalizing this cute cat with different facial expressions, clothing, and even bedding. Hundreds of color photographs tell the adorable tales, and mischief, that Amineko and his friends find themselves in, with complete instructions for knitting adventures of your own.

Tiny crochet carrot Easter decorations

I love to crochet tiny little dimensional projects and that is what Teeny, Tiny Crochet: 35 Adorably Small Projects is all about. So suffice to say I am in heaven!
The first project I had to try was the crochet carrots, after all Rorschach Amineko already has his bunny ears and eggs.

 If you too love making tiny cute crochet things I bet you will love:

Teeny, Tiny Crochet: 35 Adorably Small Projects
by
 Catherine Hirst

More about the Cico book:

 "All good things come in small packages" is the thinking behind this new crochet book from expert crafts teacher, Catherine Hirst.

 Meet Ekaterina, Elena, and Eva three sisters who live in the highest onion dome of a very old building in St Petersburg, Russia although they are only two inches tall. They are best friends with the three bears Mama, Papa, and Baby Bear who love to snuggle up at night under their beautifully crocheted blankets. And although they don t know it, they share their house with the Catnip Mouse, who measures a teeny, tiny one inch from the tips of his whiskers to the end of his tail. Working with fine yarn and using the smallest of crochet hooks, here is an adorable collection of 35 projects, from miniature amigurumi-style animals to tiny accessories. Crafts teacher Catherine Hirst has created a menagerie of small-scale pets, a whole host of families, and beautiful accessories. There are crocheted cakes which really do look good enough to eat, plus pretty flowers which can be worn as brooches or hair decorations and cute decorations for the Christmas tree. You ll also learn how to crochet miniature beads so you can make your own jewelry. As well as 35 easy-to-follow patterns, there is a comprehensive basic techniques section which will help beginners to master the art of crochet. This book really does prove that all good things come in small packages!"

Crochet mini doily from the book Use Up That Yarn! by The Crochet Dude

I love little quick and easy ....oh and cute projects and that is just what these crocheted coasters featured on the cover and in Use Up That Yarn! are.

I whipped one up, well not even the whole thing, just the inside part out of some black and white variegated yarn and look what I had...a tiny doily for one of my tiny pumpkins.

Got a lot of leftover yarn from projects than Use Up That Yarn! is the book for you!

More about the book from the publisher Leisure Arts:

Use Up That Yarn!

by

Drew Emborsky

"Crochet is so relaxing! But if mountains of partial skeins and "someday" yarns are causing calamity in your closets, it can be difficult to decide what to make next. With Drew Emborsky's quick and easy stash busters, you can clean up the clutter! The Crochet Dude(R) presents 13 practical projects that are fantastically fast at shrinking a stash. Set the table with crocheted coasters, a table runner, or decorative bowls. Use up that yarn to crochet a coffee cup sleeve or tea cozy. For outdoor wear, get toasty in a hat-and-scarf set. These speedy designs will get your yarn collection under control, restoring serenity to your crochet time--and your closets!"

How to crochet a chain silver lame bracelet

I am a BIG fan of making something that is generally made out of one material out of something completely unconventional and unexpected and that is just the project that I fell in love with from the book Crocheted and Stitched Jewelry.

In Crocheted and Stitched Jewelry there is a crocheted chain necklace. I just had to make some crocheted chain! Off to the stash and I found some Lion Brand Silver Lame Metallic Yarn and I went with a size F hook.

I followed the basic stitch pattern and construction in Crocheted and Stitched Jewelry but I made a bracelet.

Confession: I actually brought this project to a meeting and I whipped this bracelet together in 2 hours!

I love it! I will most definitely be making more of these!

If you like making crocheted and stitched jewelry too then I bet you will love:
Handmade at Home: Crocheted and Stitched Jewelry
by
Emi Iwakiri

"Crocheted and Stitched Jewellery is part of a brand new series of craft titles from CICO. Beautifully packaged as a jacketed paperback and printed on woodfree paper, this series brings you a number of popular crafts at a very affordable price. Using traditional Japanese crochet techniques, Emi Iwakiri shows you how to create these adorable designs that include ribbons, beads, bows and even scraps from your sewing box. There are stunning ideas here to suit every occasion, from a classic cream silk pearl necklace to a vintage-style crocheted flower necklace. Try making a luxurious beaded collar to add a touch of glamour to any outfit, an elegant linen flower to wear in your hair or as a corsage or a fun, multi-coloured pompom bracelet for a modern, striking look. Whether you want to create original jewellery for yourself or to give as presents, you are sure to love Emi’s gorgeous Japanese designs. And once you have mastered her simple basic techniques, you will be able to create your own bespoke pieces in no time."

How to crochet a Christmas tree skirt

My Halloween decorations aren't even all packed up yet and back in the rafters of the garage and I am already pulling down the Christmas trees! Oy! That's just the way it goes when you get inspired to make something. Today it's a crocheted Christmas tree skirt. I was savoring the pages of the new book Stashbuster Knits: Tips, Tricks, and 21 Beautiful Projects for Using Your Favorite Leftover Yarn and the page you see above has this cool jacket with a circular back and as the book title states it's made from the almighty stash (of which this fiber fanatic has in abundance!)

And the part of my stash I've been savoring and has been calling to me the loudest to work with is Vickie Howell's Sheepish yarn.
How to crochet this Striped Christmas tree skirt:
Gather your yarn and hook (I used a Boye "H" as the yarn indicated)

Note: I made it this way because I might use it with different little Christmas trees I have and some of them don't have removable legs so I wanted to be able to open it up as far as I needed to.
(This photo is of single crochet thought the back loop)
I did this because I think the stripes looked smoother this way.

-Chain 10 (or as many as you need to fit around the base of the tree you think you plan to use it with).

-Cut the end of the yarn and pull through the last loop.
-Tie a bow with the tail from the end and the tail from the beginning.
-Pick your next color yarn and starting at the beginning again 2 single crochets in the back of the first loop.
-Work single crochets around the chain doing 2 stitches in one stitch every few stitches to increase. (Note I don't count I just go with it to keep it flat by eye)
-Do 2 single crochets in the last loop, cut the yarn and pull through the last loop to secure. Tie a bow with the tails.
-That's pretty much it my crochet peeps! Just keep going until you have the size you want.

If you know what tree you are using and it has removable legs you don't have to tie each row together like I did to keep it able to be opened and adjustable.

Another thing I should note here, yes, this book is a knitting book but it is so pretty and inspirational I just happen to prefer when I am working in the round doing it in crochet.

More about the book from Potter Craft:
Stashbuster Knits: Tips, Tricks, and 21 Beautiful Projects for Using Your Favorite Leftover Yarn
by
Melissa Leapman

"This is the latest title from popular knitting teacher, designer and author Melissa Leapman. It includes 21 creative projects and ideas to utilise every last piece of yarn in the stash. It features basic techniques, special tips, alternate colour suggestions and guidance on storing your yarn collection. Popular knitting teacher, designer and author Melissa Leapman offers quick, easy and imaginative new projects designed to make use of all the yarn odds and ends every knitter has. From a tiny baby sweater to a lovely striped wrap, "Stashbuster Knits" provides 21 creative projects and ideas to utilise every last piece of yarn in your stash. Projects are organised by yarn weight and use a variety of techniques including lace, cables, colour-blocking, stripes and fair-isle to make items for men, women, children and the home. The book also includes basic knitting techniques, special tips, alternate colour suggestions and guidance on storing and organising your yarn collection."

How to crochet tiny ghosts for Halloween

Tiny ghosts are just a little spooky, well really they are just darn cute.
I was inspired to crochet these tiny ghosts after seeing these great knit ones featured in the book Teen-Tiny Mochimochi: More Than 40 Itty-Bitty Minis to Knit, Wear, And Give.

When making dimensional projects out of yarn I prefer to crochet, but that's just me. If you like to knit little adorable things than grab yourself a copy of Teen-Tiny Mochimochi: More Than 40 Itty-Bitty Minis to Knit, Wear, And Give and you'll be in cute heaven!

If you like to crochet and want to make some tiny ghosts like mine here is how I did it:

Crochet Ghost Pattern:

I used Lion Wool-Ease White Multi 301 (it has a strand of sparkle in it)
and for a hook I went down a from the suggested size of J to an I

As far as the pattern it's more like a suggestion as each ghost can be a little different and free form as ghosts tend to be, I know this!

Chain 2
Single crochet 8 into the first loop
Slip stitch to join
Single crochet around increasing approximately every 2nd or 3rd stitch until you have a nice dome shape and there are at about 14 stitches.
Then I did about 4 rows with no increasing or decreasing.

For the final row to get an irregular edge I alternated 2 treble crochets in one stitch and then a slip stitch around the base.

For the eyes I grabbed some black yarn and knotted it twice to make each little eye and stitched each one on.

Repeat to make a set, because you know one is not enough!

My crocheted eyeballs look on in admiration :)

More about the book from Potter Craft:

Teen-Tiny Mochimochi: More Than 40 Itty-Bitty Minis to Knit, Wear, And Give

by
Anna Hrachovec

"This title is suitable for advanced beginner to intermediate-level knitters who want fun, witty, irresistibly tiny patterns to make as gifts for friends, cute accessories and decorative items. In "Teeny-Tiny Mochimochi", toy knits designer Anna Hrachovec presents more than 30 super-cute, humorous patterns for miniature toys, plus techniques for tiny knitting; ideas for using the tiny knits as wearables, decorations and gifts; and instructions on how to convert a pattern for a tiny project into a bigger toy.

Anna Hrachovec launched Mochimochi Land (mochimochiland.com), a website and brand of knitted toy patterns, in early 2007. To design her toys, Anna draws inspiration from Japanese kawaii (cute) culture and children's illustrators such as Dr. Seuss. Her original knitted creations have been featured on The Martha Stewart Show and have been exhibited in galleries in New York, Seattle, San Francisco and Tokyo. In addition to her website, Anna maintains a blog (mochimochiland.com/weblog) and a Ravelry group for her fans (Mochimochi Land Lovers). Anna's first book of knitted toy patterns, Knitting Mochimochi, was published in 2010."

Happy Halloween Spider Web crochet skirt finished!

Last year I posted the almost finished crocheted spider web skirt pattern and yup, I finished in time to wear it this year! Here is a fun photo my friend Maria took of me in my spider web skirt hamming it up for the camera holding a giant pair of scissors she scored on Ebay!

A side note I will confess I had to tear the house apart to find the tiny zip lock baggie the little ball of yarn, hook and almost completed skirt was in. Because where do you keep your Halloween unfinished crochet projects? In with all the Halloween decorations? No. In your "works in process" area? No. I finally found it in the drawer I keep projects I have written about already. These are the done ones but I must have thought I would finish it sometime during the year. Go figure.

OK now onto craftastic links!

Craftside- A behind-the-scenes peek at our crafty world
This week at Craftside there is a chance to win a copy of Modern Calligraphy and Hand Lettering by Lisa Engelbrecht, two ways to position a patch pocket, a cool finger print poster, an eye dropper drawing tutorial and how to nalbind from the book Knitting Around the World.

Mixed Media Artist
Cyndi's got a rack full of freshly painted fabrics, and she knows how to use 'em!

Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery
Learn how to make a recycled #6 plastic shrunk skull necklace.

About Family Crafts
Do you have a fun and fabulous collage idea? Share it!

Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi had new 3D rose cards to showcase this week.

Crafty Princess Diaries
Don't be a wash out! Learn to make a simple crochet wash cloth with this free pattern you can download as a pdf file.

Eileen - The Artful Crafter
Eileen had fun learning how to create fine art with Photoshop.

How to crochet eyeballs with Debbie Stoller's Washable ewe yarn

One set of eyeballs says to the other,"________________".
I really don't know what they are saying to each other but they do make me laugh.
Is it crazy that I am giving my Halloween decoration eyeballs costumes now? Howdy partner!
If you like my latest set of eyeballs and want to make yourself a set grab a hook and yarn and get crocheting.

I used a size "I" hook and some of the new Stitch Nation by Debbie Stoller Washable Ewe Yarn.

This is the general pattern, I'm not really exact about my crochet and I purposefully made my eyeballs slightly different sizes so they would have a bit more personality.

Black yarn:
Chain 1 and then 7 single crochets in first loop. Slip stitch into first stitch.

Change color to iris color:
Single crochet 2 rounds increasing approximately every other stitch to create a dome shape.

Change color to white:
Single crochet for 2 rounds again increase approximately every 2 to 3 stitches.

1 round of single crochet with no increases or decreases.

Single crochet decreasing approximately every 5th stitch until you have a hole about the size of a marble.

Add stuffing and a marble or two.

Finish crocheting and stitch closed.

Read, Craft, Repeat Spooktastically!

How to crochet an Easter Egg

Got some scraps of yarn lurking around and in the mood to whip up a few Easter Eggs for decoration? They are super easy and quick! I was inspired to crochet these eggs after reading the new book Little Crochet: Modern Designs for Babies and Toddlers. I don't have babies or toddlers but I do have Aminekos and they just loved their eggs. If you like Roy's Easter Bunny ears and want to make a pair hop on over the Crocheted Easter Bunny Ears Pattern at Craftside.

This was the page that really inspired me. I loved the concentric circles in pretty colors on this blanket from Little Crochet and they reminded me of the stripes on Easter eggs and I thought how easy it would be to make some.
Here is the rough pattern on how to crochet Easter Eggs as it is quite flexible:

Yarn scraps
Hook to match yarn size.
marbles
stuffing
yarn needle

I pretty much used worsted weight yarn but some of my yarns were smaller so I double stranded.

Chain 3
7-8 single crochets into the first chain stitch
join with slip stitch
Single crochet around increasing about every other stitch until you get to about 15-17 stitches
At this point I started to change colors and make stripes.

Sometimes I did one round and then switched colors other times two rounds. If I planned to use the color again I left the yarn on and just picked it back up when I wanted to use it again. This saved a bit of end knotting etc.

After I did about 6 rows of stripes with no increases I started to decrease about every 3rd or 4th stitch to make the pointier end of the egg.

I should also note after the row of my last color change I trimmed the ends and knotted while the opening was wide.

After a few rounds with decreases I added 3 marbles and some stuffing.

Then when there was only about 3-4 stitches left I cut the yarn and stitched the egg closed.

Pretty easy, hu? Well, if you like crocheting little cute things you will love this book filled with these types of projects!
Little Crochet
Modern Designs for Babies and Toddlers
By
Linda Permann

More about the book from Potter Craft:

Linda Permann, author of Crochet Adorned, brings modern colors and fun-to-work stitch patterns to the pint-sized crowd with this cute collection of over 24 clever crochet patterns for kids.

The adorable designs in Little Crochet are worked in a range of washable fibers and vibrant hues that babies and toddlers are sure to love. Make tiny sweaters, dresses, pants, and accessories while exploring a range of construction techniques, including top-down cardigans, side-to-side sweater vests, motif-based yokes, and traditional seaming. Beautiful blankets, sweaters, soft toys, bibs, booties, and hats employ simple stitches that are sure to steal the show at baby showers. Whether you have a couple of hours or a couple of weeks till the baby's due date—you'll find the perfect project in this book.

And here's the best part: Little Crochet includes size ranging from 0–4+ years, so you can keep crocheting as the little ones in your life grow. Plus, Linda has included lots of wearable patterns for both boys and girls, with swatches showing alternate colorways sprinkled throughout. Each pattern is designed to spark your own creativity, complete with how-to instructions for adding your own crafty touches like sewing, embroidery, and appliqué. Work confidently from Linda's easy-to-follow instructions, clear stitch diagrams ,and schematics, and her illustrated guide to basic and advanced stitches and finishing techniques.

Whether you’re new to crochet or experienced with a hook, you'll find these little designs a joy to stitch and share.

LINDA PERMANN is the author of Crochet Adorned and has published over 50 crochet designs in magazines including Crochet Today, Interweave Crochet, CRAFT, Knit Simple, and Living Crafts. She designs and teaches crochet in San Antonio, Texas. When she's not crocheting, she also enjoys sewing, knitting, gardening and playing with her adorable nephew. Read more about her crafty adventures at www.lindamade.com.

Jane Doe and Rorschach Amineko Ready to go to The Craftside Free Make and Take zone at Unique LA

Jane Doe and Rorschach Amineko all set to go to The Craftside Free Make and Take zone at Unique LA this weekend December 11th and 12th, 2010. To see the full schedule of all the things you can make with a whole bunch of talented designers pop on over to this post at Craftside.

Eileen - The Artful Crafter
Calling clay and gourd crafters: do you have any suggestions to help Kathy with a cracking problem on her wonderful clay Santas?

Margot Potter The Impatient Crafter
Madge shares a Pink Ribbon Necklace project she created live on Jewel School at Jewelry Television!

Craftside-A behind-the-scenes peek at a crafty world
This week at Craftside there are tutorials on how to make a pop up gift card holding greeting card, a Steampunk style mixed media bracelet, tips on creating art everyday, and a bunch of cute pastry decorating ideas.

Mixed Media Artist
The Bead Journal Project is starting up again for its fourth year! Registration ends soon!

Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery
See how to make recycled sweater and zipper Christmas trees (or hats).

About Family Crafts
If you are in search of a special gift for a crafter or a wannabe crafter, check this collection of ideas and resources.

Aileen's Musings
Check out part 2 of Aileen's Pomegranate Liquor and download a freebie background while you're at it.

Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi downloads a cute Christmas graphic to make this fabric ornament.

Crafty Princess Diaries
Ta da! The 10-inch-squares crocheted baby afghan is done!

How to crochet a spider web skirt pattern

I shall hook you up with a spider web skirt!
I shared the beginnings of this skirt inspired by some of the designs in Crochet It. Love It. Wear It! . Well it's not quite finished but I wanted to post the pattern as I promised before Halloween. Ya, it's just a few days before but if you are a pretty quick crocheter you could whip this up in time! I only have a few rows to go.


This is really I suppose more of a formula or guide rather than a full-on pattern for a spider web skirt.
1. Chain the length you want your skirt to be (from waist to hem)
2. Chain the width of the bottom space between each "spoke" (the vertical sections) Essentially follow the pattern above (the path the arrows take you)

When the path is on a vertical spoke single crochet to attach.(pink area highlighted on drawing)
Then single crochet the next loop area and attach to the spoke with a single crochet.

I just guessed at the number of stitches based on how it looked.

A few tips:

I worked with the project flat on a table or pillow on my lap.

I used the space from the previous row to make my next row. I would lay the length of chain stitches over the space I was duplicating to see if it was the same size and adjust as needed.

I wasn't going for perfection, this is a costume and a bit of irregularity was A-OK with me.

I am quite sure you could count exact numbers but I am more of a free form crocheter and like enjoying rather than counting.

If you make one leave a comment or link, I would love to see!

Crochet Spider Web Skirt Inspired by some designs by The Crochet Dude's New Book- Crochet It. Love It. Wear It!

The Crochet Dude has got style! His new book Crochet It. Love It. Wear It! is packed full of wonderful designs that I want to wear! And also has the fabulous side effect of getting my personal creative juices flowing. That is what you see above. In the picture you will see the back of Crochet It. Love It. Wear It! and it shows you the two pieces that combined in my brain to give me the idea of crocheting a spider web skirt. The super cute pink dress is styled over a petticoat and the green long skirt had a wonderful open drape that made me think of a spider web. You can see my start on the skirt over the petticoat I plan to wear it over. I promise to post the way I did it soon!

But as a special treat today the Crochet Dude took a moment to answer a few questions and I get the pleasure of sharing his answers with you! Read on.....

1. What does your workspace/ design space look like?

"I love my studio more than I can say in words. When I was looking for a home to buy in Houston one of the criteria was to finally have a proper workspace where I could run my design studio. The house I found has a converted 1 car garage that overlooks the back yard that I have turned into my perfect workplace. My desk is set up so I can look out into the backyard and it feels like I'm out in the country even though I'm only a few miles from downtown Houston!"

2. Do you save your mistakes/ or designs you don't love right away -or ditch them?

"Most of the oopsies are discovered in the swatching phase of designing, and I have kept them all through the years. I go back to the swatch box and rummage through it when i am in need of some tactile inspiration. And Miss Chandler (one of my cats) likes to dive in every once in a while and haul out a swatch to claim. Her fave so far is a fluorescent green swatch made from mason twine."


3. What's on your "next to try" list?

"I really want to try melding crochet with other crafts and get all experimental with it. I have come up with some exciting stuff recently and I can't wait to release it in 2011."


5. Do you ever work with recycled materials?

"Some yarns that are on the market right now are made from recycled material. I think my fave right now is the Lion Brand Recycled Cotton which is made from t-shirt findings. The projects I've made with it feel great, just like your favorite t-shirt!!"


6. What music do you listen to when designing?
"If I'm on deadline I need music that will motivate me to keep going. The soundtrack to Run Lola Run really does the trick. When I'm not under too much pressure I listen to mainly pop music. Something with a beat that you could dance to."


7. How long does a design take you to create?
"A man's sweater can take me up to 3 days, a ladies sweater about 2 days. Accessories such as bags get a bit trickier and I often find myself spending a week on one project."


8. How do you organize your supplies?
"They're not organized. My hooks are in a hook case (shameless plug, I use my hook case from The Crochet Dude(r) line of products)."


9. What books/magazines do you read?
"I love House Beautiful, Martha Stewart Living, and I love the random catalogs that arrive (anything from LLBean to Skymall). I'm in a book club so I find myself reading books that I wouldn't normally choose and I like that. "


10. How would you describe your personal style?

"I hope that my style is perceived as simple and easy to wear. I don't try to try too hard, ya know? I want the crafter's experience to be fun and enjoyable from beginning to end. Let me do the hard part and figure it all out, you just relax with your project and enjoy yourself."

11. How do you determine what a design is going to be made with?

"During the swatching phase I discover very quickly if my first choice of yarn is going to work. I'm open to using anything, but as a designer I have to be careful that the yarn I choose is readily available. Yarns trend and are discontinued on a regular basis. I like to use yarns that have been around and are staples in the yarn industry."


12. Do you have a collection of anything?

"I really don't have a collection now that I think about it. Hmm, is that normal?"

13. And the all important question (from Ravelry) what is your favorite swear word?

"Oh hamburgers!"

Thanks Drew for sharing!
If you Love the "Dude" as much as me and want to make some of his fab crochet designs grab yourself a copy of his latest book with Leisure Arts:
Crochet It. Love It. Wear It! The Ultimate Collection for Every Occasion
By
Drew Emborsky

"Just for the ladies, Drew Emborsky, aka The Crochet Dude , has created 13 cutting-edge fashions in luxurious crochet. Fashion-conscious women are always searching for the perfect Little Black Dress, and Drew has one, plus an incredible selection of other must-have wardrobe pieces. Designs include a party dress, cabled and ruffled cardigans, flirty skirts, a vest, trendy tops including a baby doll style, an asymmetrical long coat, an opera jacket, and a keyhole scarf. The designs are crocheted using a variety of beautiful yarns; the majority are made with sumptuous, organic/natural yarns in worsted or sport weight and are highly textured with enticing post stitches.

For exciting new garments you'll adore, crochet these designs by Drew Emborsky - world-famous The Crochet Dude(r)! Drew created these patterns with plenty of figure-flattering shape and texture. Make a cardigan vest, party dress, or pencil skirt that will accentuate your curves. Let a chic red coat take you out for a night on the town. There's even and ultra-feminine Little Black Dress that you simply must have! And don't forget the graceful openwork skirt to wear over your best skinny pants. Sweet details and sophisticated styling are yours to enjoy with each garment as you crochet, wear, and love it! (added by author)"

All Washed Up by the Crochet Dude (Drew Emborsky) Hooked up Halloween Style

We here at the Plaidbunny Test Kitchen
took
All Washed Up
by
Drew Emborsky
B. K. A. "The Crochet Dude

for a test drive and let me say I loved making this cute dish cloth (The one on the top right side of the cover in green with white ruffles)

I whipped it up in black with orange ruffles so it would fit in with all the Halloween stuff lurking around the kitchen at the moment.

It was a great pattern that went super smoothly with the great directions Drew wrote!

There are 3 more in this series of booklets just as cute!

I give them the Scissor Seal of approval here in the land of Green Crafting.

(Designer's note bright orange on a black background does pose a photography challenge but I assure you it is very festive in person!)

More about All Washed Up from Leisure Arts:

"We're proud to present this collection of all-original dishcloths in cotton yarn, designed by Drew Emborsky, The Crochet Dude. Make them as gifts. Make them for yourself. But whatever you do, be sure to make them fun! The 9 projects in this book are Tackle It With a Twist!, Extra Elbow Grease!, Grime Buster!, Lots of Suds!, Put Your Heart Into It!, Real Men Do Dishes!, Finished With a Flourish!, Nine Rounds and You're Done!, and One Red-Hot Scrubber."

My Christmas tree is getting adorned with a cute crochet bird from the charming new book Crochet Adorned by Linda Permann

Just about my favorite thing to do is embellish! And crocheting little bits and trims is so cool!

I savored every page of this book. The first project I had to try just flew right off the page at me....yes pun intended!
Crochet Adorned:
Reinvent Your Wardrobe with Crocheted Accents, Embellishments, and Trim
By
Linda Permann

"Does last season’s skirt need a little more flash? Want to breathe new life into your favorite tee? If you love crochet and quick, gratifying projects, Linda Permann will show you how to turn your old duds into a new wardrobe with yarn, a hook, and inspired ideas! By adding trims, embellishments and lace–or even changing the design of a garment–with simple crochet stitches, you can give your clothes a whole new look. These fun-to-make projects are a great second chance for clothes from your closet or thrifty finds–and they’ll even look great with the gems already in your yarn stash. When someone asks, "Did you make that?" you will love to answer "Yes!"

Plus, Linda shares new ideas for accessories and home decorating with projects that include earrings, aprons, and pillows. She’ll guide you through color theory (to keep your clothes and yarn in harmony), help you develop an eagle eye for embellishable clothes (so that you can reap all the benefits of thrifty finds), and share all the details you need to know to customize each project to your own size and style.

With helpful how-to instructions and illustrations, 20 inspired projects, and a stitch dictionary of extra trims, motifs, and patterns, you’ll have all the tools you need to embellish anything and everything–just the way you like it."

OK so I grabbed a ball of yarn in a great sick greenish yellow color, it was a bit bigger than the recommended size for this pattern but when I make something the first time sometimes I like to work with an easy size yarn.

Crochet Adorned included both word directions and symbol patterns, I really liked that because this helped me learn symbols but made the words make sense. Very cool!

I like the way my first bird came out. I gave it a ribbon scarf and used the yarn tails to make a loop for hanging on my tree. The next bird I crochet using the pattern from Crochet Adorned will definitely be in the recommended size yarn so I can make a pin from it.

If you like crocheting up little bits to add to your cloths or projects you will truly have a lot to work with in
Crochet Adorned .

The Crochet Dude's New Book Rocks!!

The Crochet Dude's Designs for Guys: 30 Projects Men Will Love

By Drew Emborsky (The Crochet Dude)

Is fabulous!

OK full disclosure, I know Drew, I love Drew. He was one of my guests when I produced Knitty Gritty. He appeared with Annie Modesitt when they came on the show doing a project from another of their great books, Men Who Knit & The Dogs Who Love Them.

He is a wonderful designer and the projects in this book are really nice looking (and it's not just the cute guys who are photographed wearing them, I swear!)
I decided to start with the cover project. But I wanted to test drive it for me first and then the second one I made would be for a guy. And I don't where hats (I have way too much hair to fit under one but I do wear headbands to keep my ears warm. The band on this hat looked perfect for that so I skipped over the first part of the hat pattern to the band part and picked right up with the cool alternating front post double crochet and back post double crochet pattern that was illustrated and explained beautifully in the back of the book.

In addition to the super patterns, the back of the book has great charts of symbols and explanations that made this project go so smoothly it only took me a few hours to whip this headband up!

For Peeps-sake!

First let me say my Mac turned Hollywood and went to Rehab.

So I apologize for the lack of posts this week.

In continuation of my Egg theme, I bring you my free-form crocheted fried egg coaster. It is simply a circle of yellow chenille yarn and then worsted weight white yarn randomly increased around it.

And this is my best score this season. Peep shaped plastic containers. They were found at the 99 cents store.

My second best score was I hooked up with my "spray can lid dealer, Dave" in the parking lot of the Starbucks and got my lid fix. If your scratching your head and wondering if I need to go to rehab-click back to this post and all will be explained.

Which came first the Crocheted Chicken or the egg

OK "Peeps" is this not the cutest? An egg cozy that looks like a chicken. If you know of a pattern please post in the comments section! I want to make a flock of these. Thanks.