crochet by faye

TNNA Recap

2012-01-27T12:24:00.000-05:00

Before the book signing.

This TNNA in Phoenix last weekend was great!

Me and Miriam Felton, and yes we are
wearing the exact same dress!

It was the first one in more then I can remember, I only had 1 thing scheduled. It was fantastic. I had a late afternoon book signing and that's it. Meaning, I actually had time to talk to people and look at all the booths. Well, not really the later. I am a talker. I ate up all my time talking to people. Seriously, I talked nonstop for 3 days straight. That's what you get when you work in an attic alone (except for a toddler and dog). Get me near real people and I don't stop. Ask anyone, some had to run from the jabber mouth I am!

Simona Merchant-Dest, Me, Marly Bird

Anyway, it was great! It was also awesome talking to SO many yarn store owners that all have crochet in their shops. Honestly, at my book signing I probably talked to 50 or more store owners that all have crochet. If yours doesn't, they are really starting to be in the minority; and need to get on the crochet train. I found the ones that really did want to have crochet and didn't was only a matter of having no one to teach. So if yours doesn't and you can help, doesn't hurt to offer to teach some classes.

As always, I had a blast with all my yarny friends. And these are only a few of the pictures I could find. I don't know where I put Sunday and Monday's pictures. I really did chat and really chat with so many great people my head is spinning.

Anne Lukito and I in her hats

I did come back with some goodies too. I am usually terrible about getting goodies, being so scattered. I got to spend some nice time with Berroco at this show. They gave out these adorable samples of yarn. I have not had the chance in forever to catch up with their yarns. It was so nice to discuss and really get to study the yarns to see what I think would be great in crochet. And boy, there are a ton in their yarn line. I will have to tell you more when I can swatch more, but keep them on your radar for a great yarn to pick up at your local yarn store.

Goodies from TNNA

The books you see are for you guys. I got a copy of both the Best of Interweave Crochet and Custom Crocheted Sweaters for you guys. I will do a giveaway later this winter so be on the lookout!

Ok, so back to my crazy book deadline that I am swimming in.

CSVE Inspired Project

2012-01-25T12:14:00.002-05:00

I am in LOVE with this project by Denise on her Voie de Vie blog.

She look a bunch of the stitch patterns from the book and combined them for a fabulous afghan. She was nice enough to write down her recipe with where in the book you can look for the motif pattern and edging and such.

Love it, Denise. Thank you so much for sharing it!

If you have a CSVE inspired project, please email me I'd love to see it!

Come Join Me: Knit and Crochet Festival Pittsburgh, PA

2012-01-25T12:00:00.002-05:00

Come Crochet With ME!

I'm heading back to the Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Festival Feb 10-12th, 2012 with lots of new things.

Backstory: Ok, so I started teaching at this festival years ago from my cousin telling the event organizer that her cousin was a designer. Since that introduction, I have taught every year (except when CJ was so little and I was nursing). Why do I keep coming back year after year? The people! Seriously, you will be blown away by the skill and love of all things fibery in Pittsburgh. Everyone is super excited to touch new yarns, meet other yarny friends, and general glee of yarn fun; it is totally infectious.

This year: I will be teaching and, new this year, I will have a booth! (Booth #57) I will be selling all my books, DVDs, patterns, and (totally new) crochet jewelry. Crochet will totally be represented you believe me! Of course, anything I don't sell there I will keep in case any of you wanted a chance to purchase it too.

Classes:

Friday Feb 10th, 2012 2-5pm:
Guide to Tunisian Crochet: Woven Fabric with one hook
Often confused with both knitting and crochet, Tunisian crochet is an art form all unto itself making the most unique woven fabric. In class we will learn how to make the basic stitches, then dive into crocheting with color. We will discuss Tunisian Crochet stitch diagrams and tips to making the most beautiful fabric. I will have samples of all my Tunisian Stitch Patterns from Crochet Stitches VISUAL Encyclopedia ; and Tunisian Projects from Simply Crochet. We will go from basic to color fast, to have fun and keep us laughing.

Sunday Feb 12th, 2012 9-10am:
Crocheting with Color
Come get a taste of how to get powerful results in all your crochet colorwork projects. We will discuss the simplicity of mosaic crocheting, the joy of slip stitch embroidery, and easy ways to stay on track in charted color. This mini class will get you excited about color and give you inspiration to go have a color explosion.

Sunday Feb 12th, 2012 3-4pm:

Go International!

Come see how easy it is to crochet around the world with symbol diagrams. We will discuss crochet symbol charts and how to use them, plus we will look at crochet patterns from Japan, Russia, and Belgium; and dissect them to see how easy it is to use them with symbol diagrams.

Hope to see you there! I will be crocheting and I hope you stop by Booth 57 to say hi!

Interweave Crochet Winter 2011

2012-01-05T09:00:00.000-05:00

Amaryllis Tunic, Interweave Crochet Magazine

Another project that slipped by the blog, is my Amaryllis Tunic in Interweave Crochet Winter 2011 Issue.

This is the project that when finished last year, I said it's either brilliant or awful. The jury is still out for me. My vision was a tunic that you wear over leggings and tall boots.

To be honest, this top was made for teenagers in mind specifically. It is actually sized from pre-teen. I don't do many teenager fashions, that is probably why I am still waffling on it. I was thinking a mashup of plaid and flowers. The empire waist is really high to hit right under your bust (if you are built like a teenager that is, aka, not like me).

It is a blast to crochet though. The plaid is super fun with little chain spaces built in for your embroidery. The motifs are easily memorized sc and ch pattern. The yarn is fantastic, Cascade superwash. I think I have used it at least 10 time since crocheting this sweater.

You can check out all the pictures over at ravelry, and let me know what you think. Would your teenager wear it?

New Year, lots of crocheting

2012-01-04T11:29:00.001-05:00

Winterburn Hexagon, Crochet Stitches Visual Encyclopedia

Happy New Year, everyone!

Motifs from project

How was everyone's holidays? I spent mine working, granted not as much as I wanted, but working still. I got a couple of projects squared away, and a number underway. Both that can be tough. Now I am just looking forward to getting back on schedule. The top two photos are both motif garments that I designed on break. The pumpkin one I crochet 75% then handed it off to my cousin. She is SO much faster then me, and I'm not slow. I bet she can whip through 2 balls of yarn at a sitting. The bottom one is a top down project that I am loving the design, not the yarn. The yarn is fine to crochet with, I am just not happy with the variegation. I would have loved it if the white was not there. Oh well, I'll add it to "when I run a yarn company" list. The last is some necklaces I made my friends for Christmas. My best friends and I long gave up on gifts for each other. But every now and then I like to make them something. Being a mom, you so rarely get anything pretty, and I wanted something like that for them. I liked making them so much, that I think I will be selling the necklaces and pattern at the Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Festival.

Holiday Necklaces for Friends

Oh wait, I totally forgot to tell you guys about that, right? Man. I am out of it. Yes, I'm going to be teaching a few classes again this year. New, is that I will have a booth. I will be selling my books, patterns, and DVDs from there. I am thinking that I will make a bunch of these necklaces too. That way, when a non-crocheter goes by there is something they can purchase too. I will have to tell you guys more soon. It is coming up in little over a month.

Also in just a few weeks is TNNA in Phoenix. I will be going to sign copies of Simply Crochet. If your yarn store wants a copy, tell them I will be signing. But really, I am going to play with my best friend's baby for a few days and get out of this crazy cold. I figure un-thawing my brain for the weekend will help more then it will hurt, even though my deadline is so close.

Top Down Crocheting Project

What deadline? Oh yeah, I'm writing yet another book and I have a nasty deadline that I am 5 sweaters behind on at the end of January. I know, I could pass out myself. I keep saying, at least it is not 10. The worst part is this book is the book I have been waiting to write for years. I have been given full creative and technical vision. Yet, I am so tired that I am getting frustrated that I am not doing it justice. I would love if I could have 3 more months, but that's crazy talk.

Ok, so I really should be either crocheting or designing. More soon on the Pittsburgh Festival.

Ballet Rock Cardigan Winner

2011-12-29T16:23:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Katelyn for winning the Lorna's Laces yarn and pattern for Ballet Rock Cardigan. I have sent you an email, so please check your junk folder if you have not received it yet.

Hope you enjoy the pattern and yarn!

Simply Crochet Countdown to Fun: Spa Shawl Top and Tunic

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

Very sadly, today is our last stop on the blog tour. I have really enjoyed sharing with you some of my favorite people in the crochet world. I hope you have enjoyed as well.

If you haven't been hook yet by Simply Crochet, today might just be the kicker. I have been waiting and waiting to show you the masterpiece in the book, Spa Shawl Top by Doris Chan. Now, you all know of Doris's genius right? Let's pretend you have no idea who I am talking about for a second, and let me wax on about her.

Besides being a wizard with a crochet hook, she is my guru. Her designs run that line of modern and fresh and classic and beautiful. I seriously have no idea how she does it. She can take a dated doily, and throw it on its head and make it the most amazing stunning project you have ever seen. Of course, she can manipulate complex pineapple stitch patterns and make them into stunning garments with just an extra chain or shell here and there. I swear, it is magic. My very very analytic brain is stumped on how she comes up with her designs, and I just stand back in awe.

Now if you honestly have not seen her work, you need to run over and check out her books. Then check out her line of crochet patterns online and at Tahki Stacy Charles and at Interweave. By the time you are done, you will see what I mean. (in looking at all her work, I fell in love with a new one. What do you think?)

I can't wait to hear her thoughts on the project. My directions to her was a doodle I scribbled on a note at the Crochet Guild conference. From that, she made this beautiful feminine top.

Simply Crochet Countdown to Fun: Dots and Dashes Blanket

2011-12-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

Ok, so by now you have seen kids clothes, women's accessories, toys, and baskets; all that can be made with 1, 3, or 5 balls of yarn. But today, I am here to proudly show you a fantastic blanket that you can make with less then 5 balls of yarn.

Of course, this stunner would come from Ellen Gormley. Ellen does the most creative granny square projects. Her afghan designs are usually the ones that I bookmark, because I want to make them too. This is not a surprise, if you have seen her book Go Crochet. It is filled with inspiration to take the simple granny square motif and run. I can't wait to see what she has to say about the blanket on her blog. I can tell you that I jumped when I got her swatch and sketch, and said yup! I love it. From that very very early stage, I knew i would adore it. Now if only, I could swipe it for CJ's room.

Simply Crochet Countdown to Fun: Linked Jacket

2011-12-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

Today's project, Linked Jacket; has been in my proposal rejection pile for years. I think I first proposed this maybe 5 years ago, maybe more. It went through 4 different rounds of rejects from all the crochet editors. And as you know, if they can't fit it in their magazines, I use it in my books. Seriously, nearly all my projects in all my books are rejects from proposals I did for other publications.

I never look at projects that are rejected as bad ideas, but simply as not right for the issue or book at the time. And when I love them, I usually write a book around them.

Enter Linked Jacket. It is an adorable jacket that uses as little as 4 balls of yarn. When I was calculating the yarn I would need for it, I laughed. 4 balls? How is that possible. I was convinced my math was off. Way off. Normally, women's crochet projects are always like 10 balls of yarn. Two things work in favor for this project, one its short sleeves... that cuts off a bunch right there. And 2, the stitch pattern is essentially a bunch of chains with a single crochet every now and again. The stitch that uses the least amount of yarn is the chain, that makes sense; but it is tiny. Doing a quick experiment comparing a swatch made of chains and a swatch of single crochet. The chain one still uses 15% less yarn. The only challenge comes in when you want to use chain stitch patterns but you do not want a lacy fabric. This is why I love this top so much. It is just a bunch of chain spaces separated by single crochets, and when turned on their side makes a very simple fabric of horizontal lines. Nothing too lacy, nothing that pulls funny. Hope you enjoy!

Simply Crochet Countdown to Fun: Float Vest and Cardigan

2011-12-19T13:00:00.000-05:00

We are getting close to the end on our book tour, just 4 projects left to show off. And 2 of the 4 are mine. The Float Vest and Cardigan are an oversized top that could also be looked at as a shawl (with armholes). It is a basic rectangle with holes for arms. You can wrap your self up or belt it in the middle or leave it open. The stitch pattern is a fun chain space trefoil lace, very easy to memorize and quick to crochet. I crocheted the tan and my wonderful, amazing crocheter; Diane, crocheted the green. It was funny being at crochet group and we both where working on it. Easy to check that our gauges were matching! One thing to point out. This shawl/ top will grow. The lace is extremely lacy and the wool/ cotton blend is a bit heavy. The top will naturally grow over time. If this bothers you, try sub'ing a non-shiny acrylic (think velcro, not silk). The silkier and heavier the yarn, the more it will grow. The stiffer and lighter, the less it will grow. I personally think growth is no issue, since the top is oversized to begin with; who is going to notice months from now it is an inch bigger? But I know that can annoy some, so just watch your yarn choice.

Today is one of my favorites, not because I love the stitch pattern (I do) but because it shows how easy it is to add sleeves. I love when I have a funny concept and Interweave says "yes please go for it, Robyn." So my idea was to have a bunch of the projects in the book shown in two ways. One as is, and one with one additional skein. My thought was, what if you had one more ball of yarn. What could you make with it? In this case, sleeves! In Doris's case in a few days, a crop top becomes a tunic. We had a couple of others, but they had to be cut for space. Still, it is really neat to be able to explore even just a little what you can do with just one more ball of yarn. Hope you enjoy!

Crocheted Softies Winners

2011-12-19T10:40:00.000-05:00

Congrats to Kelly and Kacy! You both won a copy of Crocheted Softies. I have sent you both an email, so check your spam folder if you don't see it right away.

When I asked CJ her favorites, she said..."mmm, I like doggies." Me: "there are no doggies in the book." Her: "I like penguins." Me: "Peanut, I know you love penguins, but what animal in THIS book do you like best." Her: "Oh. Owls have eyes." Me: "So you like the owls, with the big eyes?" Her: "Fishes have eyes too." Me: "Yes, they all have eyes..." Needless to say, she wasn't much of a help. So I picked two winners at random instead.

Hope you guys enjoy the book!

Ballet Rock Cardigan Giveaway!

2011-12-19T00:29:00.001-05:00

Back this fall, Lorna's Laces asked if I could put together a girls sweater in their new colorway. For once, I actually jumped on the design and worked on it through the Thanksgiving holiday. (It helped that it was with one of my favorite yarns, Shepherd Sport.) Between the 5 hr car ride home and breaks in cooking; I finished all the panels (front, back, and sleeves). Then with one additional day, and I crocheted on the edging. From start to finish the cardigan look less then a week to crochet. It would make for the perfect holiday crocheting between Christmas and New Years. The colorway is a one of a kind colorway that makes the project pretty special. But not to worry, Lorna's Laces has a boatload of variegated colorways that are tempting to try. The stitch pattern is great for variegated yarns by having each row nested into the next. Besides that CJ loves her new sweater (I let her pick out the contrasting color); it used so little yarn. So little that I have a bunch left making me think....

GIVEAWAY!

Leave a comment or send me an email and you will be entered to win a Ballet Rock Cardigan kit. Kit includes: 1 pattern, 3 skeins of Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sport (in Wheaton, the colorway pictured above), 1 skein Naturally Caron Country. [Naturally Caron Country is a great substitute to the Lorna's Laces and looks great on the edging giving a little sheen.] Enough to make the 12mth or 24mth size. Drop me a note by the 24th and I will announce a winner by New Years.

Ballet Rock Cardigan

2011-12-18T23:58:00.001-05:00

A little bit country, a little bit ballet, a little bit rock n roll; this wrapping cardigan is for every girly girl who also likes to play in the mud with trucks.

Yarn
Lorna’s Laces Shepherd Sport (CYCA #3), 100% Superwash Merino Wool, 200yds/ 70g:
MC: #Wheaton, 3, 3, 4, 5, 6 hanks
CC: #Manzanita, 1 hank

Hook
H/8 (5.0mm) hk or hk needed to obtain gauge

Notions
Blocking pins & spray bottle
(2) 11/16” dia buttons
(2) size 5 snaps
Matching sewing thread

Stitches Used
ch Chain
sl st Slip Stitch
sc Single Crochet

Gauge
21sts x 22 rows= 4” x 4” in grit tweed stitch pattern

Sizes
Cardigan is sized for 12mth, 24mth, 4yr, 6yr, 8yr (XS, S, M, L, XL). Chest circumference is 16.5”, 18”, 19”, 21”, 23”. Shown in 24mth size.

Notes
1. When substituting yarns be sure not to use a heavy yarn (like cotton, bamboo, or silk) or the cardigan will hang wrong. Good substitutes to the wool are acrylic or wool blends.
2. See http://flic.kr/s/aHsjxqKY1P for more pictures

$6, PDF Download Only

Fine Print: To use the PDF, you will need appropriate software such as Adobe Acrobat Reader. By purchasing this pattern, you are granted a limited license to download the pdf file to a single personal computer and to print out a hard copy of the pattern, solely for personal non-commercial use.

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Amelia Cardigan

2011-12-18T07:50:00.002-05:00

First of all, is this baby sweater not the most adorable thing ever? A wearable cabled baby sweater came from the amazingly talented Julia Vaconsin. She is one of those designers that I am always tickled to see what she has in store for us next, knowing that it is always amazing.

Take a walk through her Interweave patterns alone, and you will be blown away. Am I right? She is a super busy mom, like a lot of us. I know that creating and designing is a challenge for me, I can only imagine with 3 I would be insane. The fact that she can keep crafting and making these beauties is truly inspiring to me with only 1 to juggle.

Back to that little bit about yarn amounts from yesterday. If you remember yesterday's lacy baby tunic was less then 500yds for the 2T size. This cardigan is around 700 yds for the same size. Sure, this one has sleeves, but is also shorter. The main yarn suck here is the post stitches. Now they will not always add 40% more yarn to your project, but do not be surprised if they add 20%. It is a quick number to have on hand when you are buying yarn for a cabled crochet sweater. 20% is a good base line for how much more yarn you will need compared to a non-post stitch sweater. So if you know you only have 3 balls and really want to do crochet cables, look at scarf patterns instead of baby sweaters and you will have much more luck finding a pattern.

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Tallula Baby Top

2011-12-17T08:37:00.001-05:00

We finally head into the last chapter of the book, 5 balls or less of yarn. You will be surprised that you can make clothes to blankets with only 5 balls. And not giant ball either. It is all in the stitch choice, and you will see that over the next few days.

It is best seen between today and tomorrow's post. Both are baby sweaters. Today's sweater is a motif skirted tunic from Marly Bird. It is lacy on the bottom and solid on the top. It uses less then 500 yds for the smallest size (2T). The largest uses less then 1000yds for the largest size (8yrs). Keep those numbers in mind for tomorrow.

I love the snowflake like motifs that Marly picked out for this top. It is something that I would love to make for CJ. Marly has a great eye for all things yarn. She is the creative director over at Bijou Basin Ranch, and you can see by their patterns how fabulous she is at getting great things from people.

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Annabel Shawl

2011-12-16T08:29:00.001-05:00

We end this week with the stunningly talented, Kristin Omdahl. She is truly an inspiration. Her work is always stunning and unique.

Annabel Shawl is both Victorian and modern in look. Motifs are crocheted together to create a lacy fabric, then a ruffly edging is added to finish off the project.

Kristin has a keen eye for all things crochet. Her latest book, Seamless Crochet, proves that. She shows how to crochet a number of motifs without ever having to cut your yarn and start again.

It is quite the technique to have on hand if do not like weaving in ends. Definitely worth checking out! Speaking of checking out, you can tune in at 4PM today on twitter to find out more about her book. She will be doing a live twitter chat. Check out her website for more details.

You also need to check out Kristin's Sample Sale going on now! So many of her great designs, all crocheted or knitted for you. Certainly would make for great holiday gifts to get a one of a kind scarf from Kristin herself.

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Sidney Cardigan

2011-12-15T08:00:00.003-05:00

This project, Sidney Cardigan, from Simply Crochet perfectly shows what I love about this book. It is a baby cardigan for less then 3 balls of yarn. The stitch pattern mixes post stitches and lace to keep the yarn count low and still not be too lacy.

The edging is a lace edging, so little fingers can play with it (or suck on it, depending on how little). The sample in the book is 24mths. The little girl in the book looks around 2 to me (maybe 2.5). I have it modeled below on CJ at 15mths. It is too big on her then, but you can see that if you made the largest size it really can fit them for more then a month. The sweater was modeled after my favorite sweater for CJ that was a simple one button car coat. It was easy to slip on her in our chilly house and take off after she ran around.

Looking to upsize or change the sweater? Then I think my DVD, Designing your own Crocheted baby Sweater class is perfect for you. The method I used to design this sweater is exactly the same one I highlight in the video.

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Giselle Vest

2011-12-14T07:52:00.001-05:00

We head back over to Simona Merchant-Dest today and talk about her Giselle Vest. This project show perfectly that yes with less then 3 balls of yarn you can make a garment. Like I was saying last week, Simona, always does lovely garments. They are wearable and always have one new and different twist on them.

In this vest, you have a basic rectangle that is transformed into a vest by changing the direction of your crochet. It is easily converted to a long top too, but crocheting a longer front center panel first.

You can check out more of Simona's lovely garments over at the Interweave Store.

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Natalie Shrug

2011-12-13T07:38:00.001-05:00

Today we are heading over to my super handy helpful crocheter, Megan Granholm. I rely on her quite a lot and give her some pretty wacky assignments. (you will see in the next book, one of those) Some are a bit more straight forward, like in this one, but all are wacky in some way. If you are looking for a crocheter of something that needs a bit of working out, she is your gal.

Today though was one of her own designs. She does some lovely Tunisian designs, and today is a little arm-warmer shrug. This little romantic shrug uses very little yarn. Works perfectly for taking summer dresses into cooler weather.

Coming Soon: Ballet Rock Cardigan

2011-12-12T16:46:00.002-05:00

Coming soon! Ballet Rock Cardigan... the answer for a little bit country, a little bit rock n roll, a little bit ballet kind of girls like mine. The kind of kid that loves playing with mud and trucks in her dresses and sparkly shoes. Hoping to have this up by the weekend. Would be perfect for winter crocheting. Mine took me 3 days to make. Sized 12mth to 8yrs.

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Nedburt Puppets

2011-12-12T09:37:00.005-05:00

Nedburt Puppets came from playing with my daughter. She was 14mths and still found anything funny if you played with them with a funny voice. These simple toys work great for being silly.

With 3 skeins you can make at least 6 puppets. So if you have half a skein and some scraps you can make one, nothing better then using up that stash right? Which is what Simply Crochet is all about! These would have been perfect for the baby shower I was at over the weekend. The mom is having twins and doesn't know if they are boys or girls or both. Since 2 afghans would have taken me forever, toys would have been perfect. (slapping my head for forgetting about these puppets)

The puppets use dc and sc rounds so that you don't have to spend forever crocheting round after round of sc. The dc get you further along faster and add just a touch of a pattern. The eyes and ears have nothing more then leftovers stuffed in them so you don't have to run around to find stuffing. If your baby is a chewer, you can always swap out the button eyes for some embroidery.

I will say that my daughter loved these guys. Like our little model in the book, she like to put them on as much as me. I hope you enjoy!

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Blooming Beauty Purse

2011-12-11T09:19:00.002-05:00

Tracie's project on our tour stop today uses my favorite crochet technique (motifs) and one of my favorite yarns (Filatura di Crosa Zara). Motifs are great traveling projects. They are so small you can crochet them in line to almost anything. Why yes I have crocheted at long red lights and in grocery store lines.

This project is no different. With just a few motifs, you get an entire purse. Who doesn't love that, right? The other fun part of this project is the lining. Since the motifs are very lacy (and I just believe all purses should be lined so they don't stretch out), you have the opportunity to play with color. You can make a statement like Tracie did with a powerful red (or bold color) and make the void or negative space of the motif stand out. Or you can go for a muted color that will make the solid or positive space of the motifs stand out. Either way, I this purse is meant to be used and loved.

If you are looking for some other quick projects, you might want to check out Tracie's online patterns. Most are quick projects that you will be able to whip up in a few nights. Wonder when that would come in handy? Oh yeah, right about now.

Book Review: Crocheted Softies

2011-12-11T07:14:00.005-05:00

Today I have an adorable book for you by Stacey Trock.

Crocheted Softies has 18 adorable animal toy projects from around the world. You can see a few of my favorites to the side here. Maple the Moose, Hootie the Owl, and Milton the Slowpoke Snail.

Now if you are like me, I read through all the beginning material and then browse through the patterns. I love seeing how other designers describe anything from basics to more challenging techniques. For instance, I was really interested to find out why all the projects are crocheted in the back loop only. Was it a cultural thing? A technique? Just the way she does it? Stuff like that is really interesting to me. Turns out that she says that there are less holes for the stuffing to pop out that way, neat. Besides those kinds of tips she goes into detail on how to sew all the pieces together to get the exact look in the book. The other neat thing is her yarn choice. She uses local yarn store yarns sure; but she has chosen to feature companies that have an eco presence. Whether they are eco-friendly, or give back to the community in some way. Of course, you can use any yarn you want to crochet animals. I usually use acrylic for babies, in case they have a wool allergy that we do not know about. But that's the great thing about toys, you can substitute easily and yours just might end up being a bit smaller or larger then the books. But its a toy, so who cares, right?

One thing to watch out for is the written directions. For those of you familiar with Crochet Today or Interweave Patterns, it will take your brain a while to read her patterns. Especially if you are dyslexic like me. Instead of having the # of sts you need to crochet before the abbreviation it is after, in the European style. Meaning 2 single crochets in the next stitch is written "Sc 2 in next st" instead of "2 sc in next st". It is a simple thing, but it can easily get transposed to "sc in next 2 sts" in your mind when you are used to US pattern style. I just wanted to let you know so you can remind yourself.

Now for the good news, I have 2 copies to giveaway! Leave a comment here on the blog (or email me) your favorite animal from the book. You can see them all on ravelry. I will let CJ pick out her favorite and pick from those entries to win a copy. You have to Dec 17 at midnight (EST) to enter. Don't forget to make sure there is a way for me to contact you once you win. Good Luck!

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Tapestry Basket

2011-12-10T07:03:00.001-05:00

I love projects like the one on today's tour stop. It is useful. I love filling my house with crochet that we can use and touch every day. Especially since sometimes it is too hot or too cold to wear crochet; but there is no climate that crochet house stuff doesn't work for.

Carol Ventura is the hands down expert on Tapestry Crochet. She is the master, so I knew I had to have her a part of the book. Her work is so unique that again, it just is inspiring. The design in the basket is very minimal but it packs a great wallop. You can see playing around with color the basketweave pattern can jump out or recede. I love it. You have to check out her blog just to see the before and after shot of the felting. Amazing right?

Tapestry and felting just seem to go together. As do beading and tapestry. Oh wait, I know someone wrote a book on that. Yup, it was Carol. Her book Bead and Felted Tapestry Crochet combines them all together in truly unique projects. I think the basket in that book is one of my favorite tapestry crochet pieces. (My favorite Carol tapestry project you will see in a book later in 2012.) Anyway, go check out the book you will really enjoy it.

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Botan Placemats

2011-12-09T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hanging out with the very funny Marly Bird today. Marly makes me giggle literally every time we chat, even when I am being a grump (which is quite a lot). You have to love a person like that.

These placemats are like that to me. They make me smile. I can only imagine having my cereal on them and smiling even before I can get that first sip of coffee. They are felted so you can use them as real placemats, which I love. I am not so into ones for decoration only, these guys are the real deal. They use 3 balls of yarn for a set, so you can change your table every season if you want for cheap.

If you need a bit of Marly, go check out her Craftsy online classes. I love online classes. Especially when it is with a great teacher like Marly too. She has that special balance of being able to teach you very complex ideas and have you still be relaxed and having fun. Can't go wrong with that!

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Neck Lattice

2011-12-08T07:00:00.001-05:00

Our stop today is the first project that I actually have in my own WIP pile. I started it the moment I got the pattern. One to figure out how to draw the diagram, and two because I loved it. It is an incredibly lightweight Tunisian shawl that has the edging crocheted on as you crochet.

Vashti Braha is the clever crochet scientist who came up with this project. It mixes traditional Tunisian crochet with the freedom of crochet. She is always teaching me something every time we see each other. Literally. At one party we were at we sat in a corner and she taught me how to crochet two sides of a fabric at once. It was really wild, and easy all at the same time. But she does that, makes really cool techniques look really simple.

Vashti's website is packed with patterns just like that. If you are like me and are always looking for ways to be inspired and challenged, her patterns do that. Like her Aero Tunisian Filet Lace wrap. Did you know that Tunisian crochet can do Filet crochet? Not me. Told you, she is like a mad (in the best way) crochet scientist. I get so excited every time I see a new project of hers on my flickr roll, I just know I will be inspired again. Go check it out for yourself.

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Diamonds and Lace Hat

2011-12-07T07:00:00.001-05:00

We head back to Lindamade today to visit with the Diamonds and Lace Hat this time. But who minds going back a million times to visit with Linda, not me! Her cap in Simply Crochet was a perfect project for the book. Yes, there are post stitches, but Linda shows you that with a touch of lace, the post stitches can be balanced and yardage can be attainable. Perfect right? Plus just look at that hat from the top down. It's like giving the giants you live with a special visual gift when looking down (Mr CBF is a foot taller then me... I actually think about whats on top of my head.)

But we know Linda is brilliant. Have I mentioned that she is also nice? In that you can learn her brilliance from her in person; or if you don't live in TX; online too. She has some great crochet classes over on Craftsy. They would make great gifts for the crocheter that has everything.

Oh and a little birdie told me that you might want to stop by for another reason today too. So just go check out her blog.

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Emma Lace Scarf

2011-12-06T07:00:00.002-05:00

The Emma Lace Scarf is one of the projects in the book I fell in love with before it was even finished. It is one of those scarves that you can really bundle into. Plus it is a great project if you really want to challenge your crochet chops. There is no dc row after row here, it is all unique and lovely from start to finish.

But that's Simona Merchant-dest. I am sure she has been on your crochet and knitting radar, but if she hasn't let me sing her praises for a moment. She makes fashion forward yarn projects that you can really wear and love. Every design she proposed for the book was great, it was hard to just pick 2 from her proposal. You can see some of her crochet work over at Interweave. If garments are still too scary for you, Simona does accessories too. My favorite of hers is the Hialeah Bag from Interweave Crochet. The use of color with the simple motif was just stunning for me. I know she is going to wow us again soon, so keep her blog bookmarked!

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Mystic Cuff

2011-12-05T07:00:00.002-05:00

Hey today's stop is right here!

In the book besides assembling a fantastic group of designers, I got to design a bunch of the projects too.

The book pretty much started with this cuff for me. It was one of the first things I made here in Pittsburgh. I had to google where the closest Jo-Anns and Micheals are located compared to the house. Because even though this is a very very quick cuff, I made about 10 before I got it just right. I must have changed the way the beads get attached a dozen times; besides changing the shape and color of the beads too. If you have been in my jewelry class, you have seen all the rejects.

The cuff is a lovely Victorian edging (yes, its in the encyclopedia if you where wondering) with beads threaded onto the foundation chain. You know that I love jewelry. I have a few other jewelry patterns for sale over at Interweave. Can you tell I have a definite style? Bright, bold, thread.... that's all me. Plus, is there anything quicker and cheaper to make? They are perfect for my life now. CJ destroys so much jewelry I wear, and when I can whip one up for under 2 dollars...brilliant!

Bloei Scarf and Hat

2011-12-04T20:56:00.007-05:00

Bloei scarf and hat is the perfect project to use up some of your odds and ends in your stash since they are so small that your color choice can be deliberate instead of random. All you need is enough to make one flower motif and off you can race along cooking up this project. The pattern was originally published in Mission Falls Goes Crochet. It has been re-written and has substitutions listed for the discontinued Mission Falls Yarn. As with all Crochet By Faye patterns, the pattern has both written and diagrammed instructions.

Yarn
Scarf

Mission Falls 1824 Cotton (CYCA #4), 100% Cotton, 77m (84 yds) / 50g:

MC: #404 Indigo, 35 yds

25 yds ea: # 303 Jade (A), #302 Wintergreen (B), #203 Cosmos (C), #208 Merlot (D), #411 Pumpkin (E), #305 Lemongrass (F)

Hat

Mission Falls 1824 Wool, (CYCA #4), 100% Merino Wool, 78m (85yds)/ 50g:
MC: #022 Ink, 30yds
30 yds ea: #027 Macaw (A), #028 Pistachio (B), #025 Mallow (C), #029 Raspberry (D), #533 Squash (E), #531 Sprout (F)

Hook
I/9 (5.5mm) hk or hk needed to obtain gauge

Notions
Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Stitches Used
ch Chain
sl st Slip Stitch
sc Single Crochet
hdc Half Double Crochet
dc Double Crochet
sk skip
t-ch turning chain

Finished sizes

Scarf is 3” wide by 60” tall (8cm by 153cm).
Hat is 22” (56cm) in circumference.

Gauge
Main Flower Motif = 3” (8cm) in diameter
14hdc by 16 rows= 4”x4” (10cm x 10cm)

Yarn Substitutions
1824 Cotton
Blue Sky Alpaca Worsted Cotton, Lion Brand Cottonease, Red Heart Ecoways

1824 Wool
Spud and Chloe Sweater, Cascade 220 Superwash, Brown Sheep Lamb’s Pride Superwash Worsted

$4, PDF Download Only
Fine Print: To use the PDF, you will need appropriate software such as Adobe Acrobat Reader. By purchasing this pattern, you are granted a limited license to download the pdf file to a single personal computer and to print out a hard copy of the pattern, solely for personal non-commercial use.

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Twist Wrap/ Cowl

2011-12-04T07:00:00.004-05:00

Today we are chatting with Linda Permann. As you know I totally love Linda. She has a great sense for color (which I am challenged) and is great at explaining how things work. She is also super crafty. Her first project in the book is this lovely ONE BALL (yes, only 1) Solomon's knot wrap. The very cool thing about the pattern is that it can be used in so many ways. In warm weather, you
can wear it as a wrap; in cold as a cowl. It really makes me wish I did not have to give it back to her.
It would look perfect with my navy winter jacket... just saying.

While checking out her inspiration and thoughts on this wrap, be sure to check out Linda's other patterns. There are a number that are perfect for any weather. Like her Cotton Candy Cowl would be perfect for cold climates like mine (I'm in PA), or her Summer Picnic Wrap would be perfect for warm climates like hers (she's in TX). Plus, just look at all her cap patterns. I think she needs to make those into a book, don't you?

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Billows of Baubles

2011-12-03T07:00:00.001-05:00

Our next stop is the first Tunisian project in the book. We have quite the few inside. I really love exploring the wide world of Tunisian, and when you are on a budget it is a great technique to try out.

Sheryl Means brings us our next project, Billows of Baubles scarf. It is a Tunisian scarf project that plays with the stitches and yarn. The yarn is this neat wool steel, yes, steel blend. You can literally form it to any position you want. Very Cool.

Sheryl is a crochet artist and yarn store owner. Her store, Yarntopia , in Katy, TX is exactly what you want your local store to be. Friendly, inviting, knowledgeable, and fun. Definitely worth stopping by if you are visiting Houston! (and there is a pizza joint a few doors down for those who aren't into yarn. Mr CBF had no problem hanging out there while Sheryl and I had fun a few years ago)

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Flapper Hat

2011-12-02T07:00:00.002-05:00

I can not tell you how much I adore our next project. It is the brainchild of Margaret Hubert. She is one of the many crochet designers I admire, and I can only hope my career lasts as long as hers. What hasn't she designed? You may recognize her name from her recent freeform artwork, or maybe from her crochet classes, or from her popular books. This hat is all about today's fashion with that great nod to the 30's. The cap is worked top down, then the edging is worked perpendicular to the cap all the way around. It really does liven up your basic crocheted cap!

Her latest book is all about grannies, and I can't wait to get a copy! The Granny Square Book: Timeless Techniques and Fresh Ideas for Crocheting Square by Square It is all about granny squares with diagrams and directions for all inside. It looks great!

Simply Crochet's Countdown to Fun: Iced Ascot

2011-12-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

We kick off the party tour today with Rebecca Velasquez's Iced Ascot (our cover girl!)

Rebecca's project uses one hank of Blue Sky Alpaca Royal, which is not a cheap yarn it is an amazing yarn. It is what you want to cover yourself in. It is also perfect example of a yarn you can gift to the crocheter that has everything. They will LOVE crocheting with it and LOVE wearing it.

Rebecca and I go back a bit. She used to help crochet for me way back when, before she started designing. I knew she could knock out a project no problem that everyone would love to crochet. Speaking of loving to crochet, don't forget to check out her patterns for sale. She just started a new series of patterns based on storybook characters. You can see the first one, Classic Red, on her blog. Adorable, right?

Enjoy!

Simply Crochet Countdown to Fun

2011-11-30T07:00:00.002-05:00

It's here! Simply Crochet: 22 Stylish Designs for Everyday
is releasing Dec 7 in print (or now in ebook). In honor of its release, I am hosting a party.

The book is packed with gifts since all projects use less then 5 balls of yarn, perfect for your holiday gift crocheting. The book is also packed with great designers, hence the party. Everyday in December we will be talking about one of the projects in the book. You can see the full schedule below. We will be going through the book in order, like we are turning the page and finding out from the designer herself on each project. I can't wait to hear all their behind the scenes on working on the projects myself.

Besides the projects themselves, the book explores what it really means to crochet on a budget. I proposed this book right before I was laid off, and at the time we had to go down to 24 hour work week. Needless to say, my family had budget planning on the mind like never before. I had a ton of stash yarn and I knew there was a great book in there somewhere. Of course at the same time, I was also pregnant. When the book got going, I had an infant and no time to design all the projects myself. So I roped in some of my crochet friends, and tapped their brains on crocheting on a budget. They had amazing projects that only used a few balls of yarn and totally was invigorating working with them on each one. I only have 6 projects in the book, but I think you will love everything they made as much as I do. I also included my tips on how I crochet on a budget. So besides great projects to use that stash yarn, or leftover yarn bits; there are ideas on picking stitches that will make your crochet go farther, literally; recycling yarn from old sweaters; organizing your yarn so you do not "lose" any skein; and more.

Hope you enjoy! Here's a preview to tempt you. Don't forget to come back tomorrow and the day after and the day after...

Simply Crochet Countdown to Fun Schedule:
1 Ball or Less
Dec 1 Iced Ascot by Rebecca Velasquez
Dec 2 Flapper Hat by Margaret Hubert
Dec 3 Billows of Baubles Scarf by Sheryl Means
Dec 4 Twist Cowl Wrap by Linda Permann
Dec 5 Mystic Cuff by Robyn Chachula
Dec 6 Emma Lace Scarf by Simona Merchant-Dest
Dec 7 Diamonds and Lace Hat by Linda Permann
Dec 8 Neck Lattice by Vashti Braha

3 Balls or Fewer
Dec 9 Botan Placemats by Marlaina Bird
Dec 10 Tapestry Basket by Carol Ventura,
Dec 11 Blooming Beauty Purse by Tracie Barrett
Dec 12 Nedburt Puppet by Robyn Chachula
Dec 13 Natalie Shrug by Megan Granholm
Dec 14 Giselle Vest by Simona Merchant-Dest
Dec 15 Sidney Cardigan by Robyn Chachula
Dec 16 Annabel Shawl by Kristin Omdahl

5 Balls or Fewer
Dec 17 Tallula Baby Top by Marlaina Bird
Dec 18 Amelia Cardigan by Julia Vaconsin
Dec 19 Float Vest, Float Cardigan by Robyn Chachula
Dec 20 Linked Jacket by Robyn Chachula
Dec 21 Dots and Dashes Blanket by Ellen Gormley
Dec 22 Spa Shawl Top, Spa Shawl Tunic by Doris Chan

Holiday Crafting

2011-11-29T15:06:00.004-05:00

I took the holiday weekend "off". Meaning, I did not write or do anything on my laptop, but just crocheted and only when I wanted to crochet. Not on deadline mode. It was so relaxing, and reminded me that I really need to schedule more time off.

I got a bunch crocheted too. I am making a sweater for CJ in a one of a kind colorway from Lorna's Laces. When it is done I will make the pattern available for you guys. I am planning on up-sizing it to go from 12 mths to 8 yrs. It's a wrap cardigan that will have a solid lace edging. The contrast of variegated yarn to solid color lace edging will balance the very girly silhouette perfectly I think. CJ approves, and that's all that matters.

I also got through crocheting half of my next project for the book. Of course I had to rip it all out and start again, but by today I am at the same point so not too bad. I am laughing b/c it was a total tension thing. I am a tight crocheter, no doubt. But I crocheted something that was supposed to be 12" and it was 9" when I was done. In my tension too, wonder what was stressing me this weekend? All good now. Tension back to normal.

Time to get back to work. CJ has been playing with another item on my to-do list recently and it reminds me I have to format that pattern too. It is so funny watching her start to get into imagination play. Today she was a countess making dinner. (not sure where that came from, but the play hat is the pattern I will be releasing)

Inspiration Week - day 5

2011-11-25T07:00:00.003-05:00

It is not by chance that my favorite season is autumn. I love when you can wear sweaters every day, play in the leaves, drink hot cider, and feel the excitement of the holidays coming up. And oh, the colors. I really did not capture the beauty of the colors this year, but they were amazing. Bright yellow, blazing orange, eye catching red, spring green, blue sky... So it is was an easy choice to want one of my projects to be that maize yellow to have the harvest time of year to be warn all year. (besides the leaf shape that so inspires my passion for motifs)

Inspiration Week - day 4

2011-11-24T07:00:00.001-05:00

The children's garden at Phipps Conservancy is so much more then for kids. Sure they have areas they can water the flowers, touch leaves that feel like a lamb, get lost in a maze, or climb a tree; but the beauty is what keeps me taking her back week after week. The romantic beauty of the rolling stream down to the lily pad is one of my favorite pictures. The romance is all in this project too with its berry lace pattern. It is a project that you wear in romantic places. So naturally the color needed to be a springy green, with dark as night blue contrasts just like the lily pads in the water.

Inspiration Week - day 3

2011-11-23T07:00:00.002-05:00

Ok so the thing about living in the area we live in, is that at first glance it is not the most beautiful neighborhood. Not even the second glance, especially for me coming from living in the historic district in Cincinnati with all the painted lady houses. But after you live here for a while you notice the little things, like the flowers on your neighbors steps or the trees blooming on the hilly walk to the park or the stunning view of the bridges in the winter. This project is like that. At first glance, it is ok, but then you really look at it and the mix of crochet lace and structure make you want to wear it everyday. Or at least, I do.

Crochet Today Jan/ Feb 2012

2011-11-22T13:00:00.001-05:00

Preview for Crochet Today Jan/ Feb 2012 Issue is out!

I have two small projects in this issue; a scarf and necklace.

The scarf is a little doily scarf with three different doilies in three different colors. They all blend together really well, so far away they look the same, but upclose you get the joy of seeing the differences. The yarn is a lovely cotton yarn. It was really a joy to crochet. Perfect for warm weather climates and for wool allergies.

The necklace has 2 tiny amigurumi hearts. I really like the hearts without the embroidery. The inspiration was conversation heart candy, but the final piece I like more plain. I gave CT the option figuring they know what they are doing more then I do. EC is for my sweethearts, CJ and Charles. (Instead of giving our name, Chachula, Mark always gives Charles to the hostess since it is so much easier to pronounce. That and in college, we all called him Chach.) There are a ton of options for the hardware for the necklace. I like the stacking of the necklaces, but I also like placing them side by side. I think a ribbon option would be really cute too.

These projects were so enjoyable to crochet. I was crocheting them while I was editing and it was such a nice break to crochet while reading and re-writing. I hope you enjoy too!

Inspiration Week- day 2

2011-11-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

I minored in Architectural History in college, so you know I adore all forms of architecture. My other half is a modernist lover. On our trips this summer we visited the Art museum in Milwaukee. The form obviously set in my mind for a project. Clean lines with open spaces. What makes me chuckle looking back is the color. CJ was wearing a hot pink jacket that day, and it definitely stuck with me I guess.

Inspiration Week - day 1

2011-11-21T07:00:00.005-05:00

First up this week is a pretty picot project. The crocheting was handled by my cousin, Rebecca. She is fast and great.

Inspiration of the shape of the project will have to wait. The color and crochet where inspired by Phipps Conservancy in Pittsburgh. They have a toddler storytime where they read books, then either do crafts or plant flowers. CJ loves it, and I love the venue. On one of our trips we stumbled into the Japanese garden. CJ was in love with the bridge and secret passageways. It was easy to be inspired to add more Japanese crochet into my work and use a neutral color to let the crochet shine.

Ryan Motorcycle Jacket

2011-11-20T01:14:00.006-05:00

Ryan Motorcycle Jacket

Do you know of a tyke who is “too cool for school”? Then this jacket is perfect for him. Its motorcycle-inspired style, complete with snaps and zipper makes this a decidedly “cool” sweater. The high collar will help keep your little guy warm and it can even be unzipped when the air gets a little warmer. Plus, the Tunisian stitch pattern adds just a touch of texture and will offer many the chance to learn a new skill. Pattern was originally cut from Baby Blueprint Crochet, then published in Inside Crochet Issue 17 with UK terms. Download-able pattern is written in US terms and fully diagrammed in crochet symbols.

Yarn

Red Heart Sport (100% acrylic), CYCA #3, 165yds/70g: #12 Black 2, 3, 3, 4 skeins

Hooks
J/10 (6.0mm) afghan crochet hk and H/8 (5.0 mm) hk or hks needed to obtain gauge

Notions

Yarn needle for weaving in ends

Steam iron and rust proof straight pins

14” Black sport separating zipper

(3) size 2 snaps

3/8” by 9” of black grosgrain ribbon

Matching thread

Stitches Used

ch Chain

sl st Slip Stitch

sc Single Crochet

t-ch Turning Chain

sk Skip

Gauge

15 sts by 12 rows (7 Stitch Repeats by 6 Row Repeats)= 4”x4” inches (in tire tread stitch pattern)

Sizes

Pullover sized 12 mth, 24 mth, 4 yrs, 6yrs. Chest circumference is 24” (26”, 28”, 30”). Garment fit is relaxed. Sample shown in a 6yrs size.

$6, PDF Download Only

Fine Print: To use the PDF, you will need appropriate software such as Adobe Acrobat Reader. By purchasing this pattern, you are granted a limited license to download the pdf file to a single personal computer and to print out a hard copy of the pattern, solely for personal non-commercial use.

1 step forward 2 steps back (or is it the other way around?)

2011-11-19T14:47:00.004-05:00

Even when you plan as much as I do, I am still always surprised how behind I am. If you know me, you know even when I try really really hard, I will always be at least 10 mins late. This translates to everything. And I really should not be surprised that I have only 5 projects finished for the new book, when I wanted to have 8 done by now.

I should be less surprised that I have to work through the holidays. Every year in January, I vow not to work through the holiday season. By November, I am always behind and have to work long long nights through and put on a happy face while I do it. So no surprise I will have to do it this year as well.

My one saving grace is getting one afternoon off a week to sit back and just work. To actually work when I am alert, it is such a noble concept these days. Work for me happens all the time, but I usually have one eye on my 2yr old making sure she isn't wrecking havoc while I check my email. My only time to concentrate is during nap or bedtime and you know how with-it you are after wrestling a toddler to sleep. Still I am amazed at how just one afternoon really can re-charge me.

Like this week for example. I got the 5 projects back from my crocheters 2 weeks ago. I planned a week of doing the finishing bits and send them off. (I always do the finishing so that I can write exactly what to do for that piece. You know that yarn can vary so much and you never quite know which one will really need a steam bath to get it to settle down, or which one will need a larger edging to support the weight of the crochet. Instead of wasting my crocheter's time, I do it. Plus, then I can get my hot little hands on the project too. I can get very jealous sometimes that they get to crochet with the yarn. Anyway.) After an entire week of late nights (think newborn sleep hours); I was only half finished and really disheartened. In all the planning who new that it would take me 2 weeks to finish, instead of one. So going into the week, I knew I was behind and really need to get to the next step on my to do list. No magic pill to make you not totally disheartened at the time it is taking you to finish, other then to just finish. But on my one afternoon off, when I can sit and think. It comes to me, put all my struggles finishing these in the book. Because I know everyone has had projects that they think they have to frog, but actually might only need some blocking or lining or edging to fix them. See, it is amazing what you can do even when you are at your end with just a few hours to think straight.

Even with all the late nights these past few weeks and all the going ons in our house (if you have been following me on twitter you know that nearly everything in our house needed fixed at one point); how can you trade it in when I get to visit places like Phipps (the pic above) in Pittsburgh. Our daily routine consists of going to a museum/ library/ park everyday to get CJ tired and I can then work. I won't lie, I get most of my inspiration for my work in those activities. I mean come on, look how beautiful that place is and just try to not be inspired.

So a little late, but this week will be inspiration week around here to remind me that even if it takes me an extra month I can finish projects. The first is to the right, and noticing now how all those colors looked plucked out of the picture above; just goes to prove that even when you don't know you are being inspired you really are. The project on your right is for a magazine, so i can't say much other then I really enjoyed making it. It took me a month to crochet. I would literally get to crochet one or two rows a day, but hey even that will add up in the end right? More sneak peeks all this week, hope you enjoy!

Climbing Vine Vest

2011-11-09T21:06:00.006-05:00

Climbing Vine Vest

Since crocheting can sometimes take a while, I love projects that you can wear all year round. This vest made from silk can easily be layered over a cami in the summer for a dressy tank top or over a buttoned down shirt in the winter for a polished vest. As with all my patterns, the construction is both written out and diagrammed in symbols. The pattern was originally published in Inside Crochet Issue 9 in UK terms. The version available to download is in US terms.

Yarn:

Rowan Purelife Revive (CYCA #3), 36% Recycled Silk, 36% Recycled Cotton, 28% Recycled Viscose, 125m (137 yds) / 50g: #462 Basalt 6, 6, 7, 7, 8 balls

Hook:

G/7 (4.5mm) hk or hk needed to obtain gauge

Notions:

Blocking pins &spray bottle

Stitch markers

Tapestry needle

Stitches Used:

ch Chain

sl st Slip Stitch

sc Single Crochet

hdc Half Double Crochet

dc Double Crochet

t-ch Turning Chain

sk Skip

Gauge:

7 dc by 8 rows = 11.5 cm (4.625”) wide by 11 cm (4.25”) long in stitch patt

Sizes:

Bust/chest circumference is 86, 94, 102, 109, 117 cm (34”, 37”, 40”, 43”, 46”) to fit S, M, L, XL, 2X. Fit is close. Shown in M.

$6, PDF Download Only

Victoria Scarf

2011-11-09T16:18:00.006-05:00

Victoria Scarf

Like shoes, I think scarves are best when they are popping with color. Victoria is scarf that can stand out from a crowd easily, and I love that about her too. No reason to go through the winter with a boring gray scarf, right? Might as well have something fun wrapped around your neck to make you smile. As with all my patterns, the motifs and construction are both written out and diagrammed in symbols. The pattern was originally published in Inside Crochet Issue 14 in UK terms. The version available to download is in US terms.

Yarn:

Mirasol Tupa (CYCA #3), 50% Silk, 50% Merino Wool, 125m (137 yds) / 50g:

#817 Aquamarine 2 hanks

Hook:

G/7 (4.5mm) hk or hk needed to obtain gauge

Notions:

Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Spray bottle and blocking pins

Stitches Used:

ch Chain

sl st Slip Stitch

sc Single Crochet

hdc Half Double Crochet

dc Double Crochet

tr Treble Crochet

sk skip

t-ch turning chain

Finished size:

Scarf is 5” wide by 60” tall (13cm by 153cm).

Gauge:

First Motif = 13 cm (5”) in diameter

Notes:

Scarf is worked one motif at a time. Each motif will connect to prev motif with a sl st at the end or beginning of the row.

$4, PDF Download Only

Note: This pattern has not been tech-edited. Please let me know if you find any errors in the pattern. I will give you a free pattern for any errors you might find. Hope you enjoy!

Crochet snuggle

2011-11-09T02:17:00.001-05:00

Chair snuggle
Originally uploaded by rchach

We all should love on crochet like this, don't you think?

Life has gotten a bit out of control. If you have been following my twitter account, you already know. In the last 10 days my laptop fried completely, CJ had to start nebulizer treatments for a cough, and our washing machine, garbage disposal, and dishwasher all broke in the same night. Fun times.

I thought that maybe we all could use a bit of a break. So I am having a half-off sale on all my patterns.

Autumn is my absolute favorite time of the year. Leaves changing, jumping in piles of leaves, apple cider, crisp air, and the return of crocheting with wool.. I hope you can use the sale to pick up a pattern you have been wanting to crochet. All I ask is you to enjoy it, while enjoying some of this nice autumn weather.

Sale Details:
Visit my ravelry store and pick out a pattern : http://www.ravelry.com/stores/crochet-by-faye-designs
enter the coupon code: AUTUMN at checkout
It will automatically take 50% off the pattern price. I will have the sale up for 2 weeks. Coupon only will work once.

Off to some crochet snuggles myself

Unexpected Afghans Preview

2011-11-02T07:35:00.000-04:00

Months and Months before it will be available. Here's the preview to my 3rd book this year. I am madly in love with this one. The designers were all amazing and I can't wait till you can see it all. Till then, I can't even say much. But I think the preview does speak miles.

Unexpected Afghans

Get it before it hits the shelves!

2011-11-01T19:29:00.004-04:00

Simply Crochet is available now as an immediate download e-book. That's almost 6 weeks before you will be able to get it in the store. Crazy!

I will have more soon on the book and all the projects starting in December. I'm just very excited that it is available so soon!

Simply Crochet

Final Stop: Crochet Chat

2011-11-01T19:07:00.003-04:00

Today is the last day on our blog tour.

I am very thankful to Wiley for sponsoring the tour with so many book giveaways. And very thankful to all our blog authors for their generous reviews of the the book. I really hope you all enjoy the book as much as I did writing it!

The last stop today is with Jocelyn over at Crochet Chat. She has the pulse on all the going ons in the crochet world. Be sure to sign up to follow her on twitter for everything crochet. She interviewed me on some of my favorite crochet books and techniques. Hope you enjoy!

And thank you all for following along!

Day 13 Stop: Manhattan Craft Room

2011-11-01T18:34:00.004-04:00

Heading over to New York for Brett's review of the new book.

Brett and I are pals from Crochet Today when she was the editor and, of course, from Knit and Crochet Now. Brett is one of the most creative people I know. She can master a new craft in a instant. Have you checked out her jello creations? Amazing right? She is also the author of the fantastic book, Sewing in a Straight Line.

Day 12 Stop: Lindamade

2011-10-27T13:43:00.005-04:00

Today we travel to Texas to stop in with Linda Permann. Linda is my crochet soul-mate. Her designs are everything that I want mine to be; fun, hip, creative, and colorful. I was an admirer of her work long before we ever met; and once we did I knew we would hit it off forever.

Linda is a crochet author, designer, and teacher. You probably have seen her books Crochet Adorned or Little Crochet. She designs for everyone, so may have caught her work in a magazine. Or of course, from her pattern line. Isn't her latest design, Starry Night, great? Besides that Linda is a great teacher. You can catch her at her local yarn store; or even better online. Her classes are very organized and packed with great tips.

Linda and I are so similar we keep laughing about it. She and I both wrote modern baby crochet books at the same time, having no idea that's what the other one was doing. Both made online DVDs or classes about very similar crochet topics, again at the same time having no idea that we did it again. It just kept happening. So when I was writing Simply Crochet and Unexpected Afghans, Linda was one of the first people I contacted to collaborate with me. I love her work and I hope you do too. So be sure to stop by her blog and enter a chance to win a copy of the book.

(By the way, in case you didn't know Crochet Adorned is also a mini stitch dictionary too. Just saying...)

Day 11 Stop: The Crochet Doctor

2011-10-26T09:30:00.004-04:00

We head over to stop in with Marty Miller, the Crochet Doctor. Marty is one of the most educated crochet designers I know. She has an interest in almost everything which makes it a joy to talk with her. In the crochet world, Marty designs, edits, teaches, and volunteers.

Marty's last booklet was a cute bunch of totes. They are perfect for running to the grocery store or library (where i use all my totes).

Marty's review of the book is wonderful. She put the book to the test by hopping in and testing out some of the patterns. I couldn't be more delighted that she found some inspiration inside. Marty is so knowledgeable with crochet that it is pure delight that she likes the book.

Hope you enjoy!

Day 10 Stop: Yarn Craft Podcast

2011-10-25T14:11:00.004-04:00

Today we are chatting with Zontee at Lion Brand over at the Yarn Craft Podcast. We talk yarn, stitches, and how to use a stitch dictionary. Hope you enjoy!

Book Winner and Update

2011-10-25T09:25:00.002-04:00

First, I'd like to congratulate Melody. She won a copy of Crochet Stitches VISUAL Encyclopedia from Vickie Howell's review of the book. I hope you enjoy it!

This last few weeks have been rough for us. So writing three books at once is tough, but I totally forgot (DUH) that while I am only writing one right now; I would be editing another and publicizing another two. Talk about feeling behind. At least we have been getting some good inspiration lately. I took CJ to my parents over the weekend to get her a good dose of the country, since she is such a city kid. She loved visiting all the "dogs"; all animals other then cats, cows, and sheep are dogs in her world. The colors were beautiful which you can sort of see below.

I have been working an a bunch of new projects too. One fun swatch which I am not going with, but I still love is below. More soon once I can have a minute to breath without a toddler on top of me.

Day 9 Stop: Styled by Kristin

2011-10-24T08:54:00.002-04:00

We are headed to Florida today to stop in with Kristin Omdahl over at Styled by Kristin. Kristin is an amazingly talented crochet and knit designer. Her designs are truly one of a kind and blow me away every time. Her mind thinks in geometry and makes the most incredible motifs that always are inspiring to me.

Her newest book is Seamless Crochet. It explains how to crochet a group of motifs without fastening off. It is really cool if you have not seen it before, you will say ooh and ahh at the same time. In really really simple terms, you crochet part of all the motifs in a strip then come back and crochet the rest in the return pass. It is a lot of fun to play with and you can see how lovely the projects come out to be.

Day 8 Stop: Nexstitch

2011-10-20T08:51:00.003-04:00

Nexstitch with Amie Hirtes is our stop for today.

Amie is a designer, graphic artist, and art teacher. She is incredibly talented. Her tutorials constantly are getting amazing praise, and are definitely worth a look when you need a crochet stitch reminder. Her patterns are always fashionable and easy to follow.

Her review of the book really warms my heart. She took a genuine look into the book and to my delight found some inspiration in it. I am truly touched!

Day 7 Stop: Knitgrrl

2011-10-19T21:43:00.006-04:00

Today we check in with Shannon Okey, over at Knitgrrl.

Shannon is the real deal. She is a designer, sure; teacher, you bet; and PUBLISHER, whaa? Yup, she literally does it all. She comes up with fantastic designs (knit, crochet, and felting); then can teach you backwards and forwards how to make them; oh and somehow finds time to publish wonderful books. Check out some of the titles Cooperative Press has coming out.

Cooperative Press is her brain child born from wanting to give designers more freedom in publishing. Her indie venture takes publishing to a new level. They are combining all forms of media (like print and ebooks); plus giving total freedom to the designer. Now it is not a breeze, these designers are working their tails off; but the product is lovely with totally fresh approaches to craft books. If your local yarn store has not heard of them, help them out by spreading the word. The patterns and designers are not to be missed. They are all truly masters at their craft.

Hope you enjoy!

Oooh! Coming Soon

2011-10-19T15:39:00.002-04:00

Look what is up for pre-order!

I am so excited the newest Crochet Accessories is about to come out. I'm not in it, I'm just excited to see all the great projects. By the looks of the preview, it looks amazing. Just look at those shawls! And how in the world did they pack in 59 projects? Is it a fold out magazine? I mean, that is amazing.

I just can't wait!

Day 6 Stop: Annie Modesitt

2011-10-18T19:31:00.003-04:00

We head to Minnesota today and visit in with Annie Modesitt.

Annie is a good friend of mine, and I am also a GIANT fan of hers. She is the best teacher I have taken classes from. I actually keep all of her handouts close to me every time I knit, especially cables. She just explains stitches really well and while entertaining you in the mean time. So you are there laughing, all the while not even realizing you are learning a new technique.

Annie teaches all over the country, but if she is not going to near you anytime soon you can also take an online class from her as well. How great is that?

Annie's review of the book, makes me blush. She is just the greatest cheerleader, is she not? Every time I am getting down and exhausted, she makes me smile. Enjoy!

Day 5 Stop: Vickie Howell

2011-10-17T14:22:00.004-04:00

Today's tour stop is with the ultimate working crafty mom, Vickie Howell. You can her thoughts on the encyclopedia and see a swatch in her new yarn, Sheepish.

Sheepish is an acrylic wool blend yarn. It gives great stitch definition since it is a single ply with a shiny sheen. You can see a few of my swatches when I was using it for a pattern here.

Have you seen the yarn in your local hobby and craft store (Like Micheals)? What would you love to see made with this yarn?

Answer either of the above questions (by email to me, or here in the comments) by Wednesday at noon, EST; and I will enter you to win a copy of the book. I will send all the answers to Vickie, I know she loves hearing what you think as much as I do. I will pick the winner at random and have Wiley send you out a copy of the book. Make sure you leave a way for me to get a hold of you, email is best.

Day 4 Stop: The Hook and I

2011-10-14T14:24:00.002-04:00

Today we are headed to Alaska to talk with Amy from the Hook and I.

I love Amy. We were roomies at all the conferences until she and her family moved to Alaska, and travelling became much more difficult. Amy is multi-talented. She's a great teacher, crocheter, designer, author, editor, chef, and more. You can catch up on their adventures in craftiness in Alaska on her blog. Amy is the author of a bunch of crochet books as well, so check her out on Ravelry when you get a minute too.

Day 3 Stop: Go Crochet with Ellen

2011-10-12T14:22:00.003-04:00

Today we are headed to Cincinnati (our old home) and stop in to see Ellen Gormley.

Ellen is a very busy crochet designer. So much so, that I think in the 6 years we lived there, we only found time to see each other 3 times, And once way the day I was leaving! I literally think she sleeps with a hook in her hand. And I might be wrong, but I think she crochets all her designs herself. So she must not sleep either.

Her latest book, Go Crochet! Afghan Design Workshop, is a fantastic workbook of motifs. I blogged about it here. But I have it close to my desk to look at for inspiration all the time. You can see lots of her designs at Ravelry as well.

Look Look...

2011-10-11T19:31:00.004-04:00

Look what I found!

Book 5 Revealed!

Unexpected Afghans: Innovative Crochet Designs with Traditional Techniques

More soon about the book, it will be amazing is all I can say. Like hold on to your hats projects. I can say that since I only did 5 small ones in this book. Most from the people that inspire me, and I hope you too. Doesn't come out till next summer so more when we get closer. I am editing for the third time this week. Nice little pick me up to see it for pre-order.

Day 2 Stop: Yarnthing Podcast

2011-10-11T09:15:00.004-04:00

Today's stop is with the sunny and giggling, Marly Bird, over at Yarn Thing Podcast.

Come join us at 12 noon today for some laughing and chatting about crochet. Marly and I always have fun, so it will be a great time!

Till then, have you seen Marly's latest book, Curvy Crochet? Or her latest designs? She is the creative director over at Bijou Basin Ranch (along with author, designer, teacher, and podcast host). Her work with them is fantastic and really shows what amazing things you can make with their great yarn.

-------

See if you can tell all my great mothering acts in the 30 min show....

1. Let CJ watch Sesame Street to buy me 10 mins of quiet

2. Threw stickers on the floor to buy another 10

3. Then threw cookies on the floor to keep both baby and Faye quiet for the last 10.

Fabulous! Seriously can you hear me running away from the crazy loud toy she was playing with? You wondered how I "do it all". Quick answer-- not well.

Encyclopedia hits the Road....

2011-10-10T08:37:00.004-04:00

Starting today and going until Nov, the encyclopedia is stopping and visiting with some incredible crocheters. At each stop there will be an opportunity to win a copy of the book, so be sure to check in every day for the tour stop for your chance to win. The complete list of tour stops is below, but I will be posting about these great crafters everyday as well to remind you to check them out.

Today's stop is with Mary Beth Temple over on her podcast, Getting Loopy. Be sure to take a listen tonight at 9pm (est), and call in if you have any questions (or ask in her chat room). You can always catch up on our chat later this week too on itunes. Mary Beth is one of my fellow crochet designer, teacher, authors; that is as nuts as I am taking on a million projects and hardly ever sleeping. Her latest blog post about dropping off a package, was like she was scripting my life. Exactly the same. You can check out her latest designs on her pattern line hooked for life. I hope to hear from you guys tonight!

Tour Schedule:

Oct 10- Getting Loopy

Oct 11- Yarn Thing

Oct 12- Go Crochet

Oct 13- Hook and I

Oct 17- Vickie Howell

Oct 18- Modeknit,

Oct 19- Knitgrrl

Oct 20- NexStitch

Oct 24- Styled by Kristin

Oct 25- Yarn Craft

Oct 26- Crochet Doctor,

Oct 27- Lindamade

Oct 31- Manhattan Craft Room

Nov 1- Crochet Café

First of Many Giveaways

2011-10-03T12:38:00.003-04:00

Today mark's the first of many giveaways for Crochet Stitches VISUAL Encyclopedia

All you need to do today, is head over to Wiley's Craft Blog and leave a comment to be entered to win.

Starting next week and going through November, every day you will be able to enter to win a copy of the book at one of the blog tour stops... so get ready!

Encyclopedia in the house

2011-09-29T19:31:00.002-04:00

I got an email from my editor at Wiley this week that Crochet Stitches VISUAL Encyclopedia
was printed, then boom its at my front door! This book moved so fast that I am still in disbelief that it is real. I only started writing it in mid January of this year, and its now in my hands. (for BC, BBC, and SC all took over 18 mths to publish from my start date of writing) So yeah, this moved fast.

What's in the book you might wonder? Well over 300 stitch patterns for starters. It is broken into 9 chapters: simple stitch patterns, texture and cables, lace, unique lace (Brussels, filet, broomstick), color, Tunisian, granny motifs, flowers and snowflakes, edgings.

As an art form and craft, crochet spans centuries and countries around the world. In this encyclopedia, I tried to pay homage to that fact. Inside you will find patterns that date from Victorian lace work, 60s retro granny squares, and modern interpretations of crochet. The stitches span the globe from here in the US to Ukraine to Japan to South America and more. I wanted to compile and touch on as many art forms of this unique craft as I could. You will find patterns that look deceptively like knitting, but in actuality are simply slip stitch crochet. You will find patterns that look deceptively challenging like the mosaic colorwork pattern, but in actuality are simply stripes of color. You will find motifs that range from the classic granny square to Gothic window inspired hexagons. In the Tunisian chapter, you can explore my favorite part of the technique which is the woven like fabric it can create.

Every pattern in the book has a stitch diagram alongside of the written directions. This is to help guide you in the pattern, and make it easier to see where the stitches will be created. Included in the chapters are tips and tricks of mine to make your work look sensational.

Below is a little slide show of a few stitch patterns from each chapter. Later in October, I have set up a blog tour with some great reviewers; so they can let you all know what they think of the book too. (plus, they all will have giveaways... so stay tuned!)

Till then, here's a peek inside:

Congrats.....

2011-09-23T15:59:00.002-04:00

Congrats to Cupcake Catie for winning Lion Brand's yarn and my DVD giveaway. When you get a chance send me your address, and I will get the DVD right out to you.

Bartlett Car Coat Live

2011-09-23T13:57:00.003-04:00

Petite Purls just went live this morning with their latest issue. If you are not familiar with them, they are the online knitting and crochet magazine for little ones (babies and small kids). They also have great articles on moms and other crafty ideas.

In this issue, I have a baby girl car coat that is free for you guys! It is sized from 6mth to 24mth. Made from a few skeins of Spud and Chloe Fine, it is a great wearable sweater for playtime. CJ is modeling it here on the blog, and Brandy's daughter is modeling it on Petite Purls. So you can see how it fits on 2 different 2 yr olds. The stitch pattern is really easy with just back and front post double crochet stitches. Sometime after this book, I hope to release it here for sale on Crochet By Faye in more sizes; but knowing me that will be a while from now.

I couldn't be happier with how it turned out, and can easily see it being a staple in CJ's wardrobe this winter. Big Thank You to Diane for crocheting the sample for me. She just won the grand prize at CGOA's design competition, besides being thrilled for her, i am so thankful to have her expert help on my projects too.

I have lots and lots more pictures of the sweater modeled by CJ, here at flickr. Don't forget you get the pattern over at Petite Purls.

My love of mock-ups, project 1.

2011-09-13T15:47:00.003-04:00

;

This month I started my 4th book for this year. And I totally thought by this point, I would want to stab my eyes out instead of LOVING designing yet another book. Amazing. This one is totally different from the other books I wrote this year.

Simply Crochet was kinda a sampler book on how you can crochet your heart out without breaking your bank.

Crochet Stitches VISUAL Encyclopedia was like doing a thesis for my crochet PHD (it has so much packed in there)

The third (yet to be announced) was a designer collection book that will blow all the competition in the category out of the water.

This book is back to Robyn (as I am seeing it.). Basically crochet projects that I like crocheting, with tips and techniques that I use when I crochet. That said, I am being very picky on exactly what is going in the book. I am taking WAY to long to design each project because I am trying to make them all perfect. (that is not Robyn)

It took me FOREVER to pick out colors this time, and I am still fighting with myself on some of them. And some arrived perfect as I knew they would. Here's a pic of 3 different projects.

Yesterday, I broke though and finished the first project (of 8) for my next milestone. I had to make a mockup to get the measurements exactly right. And remembered how much i love mockups. (a mockup is a quickly cut out version of the schematic size... you can see how quick above) I make my crochet mockups with lightweight fleece or heavy flannel. I want them to "stick" to other clothes and be thicker to mimic, sort of, how crochet fabric behaves. Using knit or cotton fabric for the mockup never gives me the results I need, after I drape it on Susie. The mockup for this first project was fantastic. I draped it and saw the front looked good, but the back hung all funny. It was invaluable. It saved a lot of ripping and re-crocheting later. I almost hugged Susie for modeling. Actually, before I crochet a sweater for myself I make a mockup. Nothing better then to see what it looks like on me before I crochet, so I can make changes if I want.

Now to get moving on project 2.

Granny Square Skirt

2011-09-08T08:00:00.003-04:00

The preview for the Nov/ Dec issue of Crochet Today is up on their site. Included in the issue is my granny square skirt.

I was asked to create a granny square skirt, and since it is way to difficult for me to do anything literal... I had to do something different. The motif is an off centered granny with log-cabin-like edging on 2 sides. Each motif is rotated before seaming together to get a mosaic-ish fabric.

Of course, in my head there are a lot more motifs. Especially since, in my head I am designing for me, which would have more motifs to go across my hips. I think if I were to make this for me, I would make the motifs smaller so there are more of them. I really like the idea of the skirt, but am not crazy with the outcome. Oh well, that happens.

I finished this in June with the help from my cousin. She crocheted 12 of the motifs; then I made the shaping ones, seamed it together, and added the edgings. I love my cousin for being so cool with helping me out. Having someone who can tag team crocheting with me is fantastic. I still get to crochet and work out the fussy bits, perfect! (a lot of times I have to get a contract crocheter to crochet the entire project, so then I pout because I didn't have the time to make it myself).

You can see more of the skirt here and the details on the yarn. (Which actually is perfect for skirts. Durable and sportweight.)

What's on sale?

2011-09-07T14:46:00.006-04:00

Just so you can see the amazing deals first hand....

Blueprint Crochet and Baby Blueprint Crochet are on sale (around 13$-- 40% off)

The ebook version (which is new, btw) of Baby Blueprint Crochet is on sale.

The ebook of 6 designs of mine is on sale (about 6$- 40% off- and since normally 1 pattern is 6$ that's like 5 for free)

All my Interweave patterns are on sale. (30% off)

Looks like just my DVDs and Simply Crochet (pre-order) are not on sale. Not bad, so now what am I going to buy?

Lion Brand... A little Q and A

2011-09-07T08:00:00.010-04:00

Did you know that YarnCraft is getting ready to launch its 100th show? Yup, Lion Brand's informative and fun podcast is about to air its 100th episode on Sept 13th. In honor of their great run, Liz and Zontee sat down to answer some of my burning questions.

RC: Liz and Zontee what do you do at Lion Brand?

Liz: I do product and yarn development at Lion Brand. That means I work with mills to create the yarns that will eventually be on the retail shelves. Yes, this is every bit as awesome as it sounds.

Zontee: I edit our various newsletters, our company blog which is the Lion Brand Notebook, produce the YarnCraft podcast, and oversee marketing initiatives like our booths at yarn events. I also work on content for our website, and I work with artists and designers who use our yarns, which means I get to spend a lot of time out and about in the wonderful yarncrafting community.

RC: Lion Brand has a great Podcast, interviewing lots of designers, authors, teachers; and coming up with project ideas, organization, and techniques. Where do you get your ideas for each of your podcasts?

Zontee: Liz and I do a lot of brainstorming and try to think about topics that will be interesting to other yarncrafters. Sometimes we’re inspired by suggestions from our listeners, coworkers, or friends. Other times, we start with a guest that we’re interested in speaking with and build the topic around their expertise. In the world of yarncrafting, there’s no shortage of creativity and inspiration.

RC: We know that a ton of work goes into each podcast, how early do you start planning shows and how long does it take you to edit all the segments into a show?

Zontee: We usually plan several episodes at a time, so we have our ducks in a row usually a few weeks before the episode airs. Once everything’s recorded, it takes me a few hours to go through all the segments and put everything back together again.

RC: How do you keep your sanity being surrounded by all the great yarn colors and textures all day?

Liz: Well, I think the matter of my sanity is definitely a topic for debate! Honestly, at this point I start to feel anxious if I am NOT surrounded by piles of yarn, since that is such a big part of my work and home life. You should see how much yarn I bring when I travel.

RC: What is your current favorite Lion Brand yarn to crochet?

Liz: The LB Collection Cotton Bamboo – I love how smooth and silky it is. It just flies through your fingers. I made a granny square baby blanket out of this and it went so fast!

Zontee: For everyday projects, I’ve crocheted a lot with Vanna’s Choice, which makes a really lovely dense fabric, and is very versatile. For special projects, I like crocheting with the LB Collection Silk Mohair, since you can crochet a

seriously fast-finish project that’s lacy and open.

RC: You know I am in love with the LB Collection. Can you tell us how that came about?

Liz: We wanted to offer our loyal customers high quality, natural fiber yarns that unfortunately are too expensive to be carried at our normal retailers. By selling them direct to customers on our website, we can make luxury fibers like cashmere, alpaca, angora, and mohair available at reasonable prices. An important part of our Lion Brand philosophy is to provide high quality but value priced yarns for every type of crafter – whether someone is looking for an inexpensive acrylic yarn for their child's classroom project or for 100% cashmere to make an heirloom gift.

RC: How does Lion Brand decide out of the millions of fibers and weights and colors, on a new yarn line?

Liz: When developing new yarns, we try to balance the newest fibers and yarn construction techniques with practical applications for our customers. We want to make yarns that are new and exciting for people, but not so unusual that people won't know how to use them!

Zontee: In fact, we’ve done an episode about this very topic, so be sure to listen to episode 90.

RC: LB Collection Superwash Merino is one of my favorites to use, it has been featured in a number of my books and DVDs. What was the inspiration behind that yarn?

Liz: I am so glad to hear you say this, because the LB Collection Superwash Merino is one of my favorites too! It was created to be as versatile as possible, so we went with a DK weight and a multi-ply construction that resists pilling while staying lofty and soft to the touch. This means that you can use this yarn at a variety of gauges, all with great results. I've used it for everything from socks to sweaters to baby blankets.

RC: LB Collection also has a really cool yarn with Steel in it, that will be in my new book, Simply Crochet. It can be crocheted and then the project can be formed into different shapes, it is really neat. What was the inspiration behind that yarn?

Liz: The LB Collection Wool Stainless Steel is such a fun yarn to experiment with. At the time we were developing the LB Collection, we were approached by a Japanese mill we had worked with in the past who wanted broader distribution for their Stainless Steel yarn. We had already been big fans of the yarn, so were thrilled to included it in the LB Collection.

RC: What is coming up next at Lion Brand that we should keep an eye out for?

Zontee: This fall, we have a couple of awesome things coming out. First off, we have a brand new collection in conjunction with Martha Stewart Crafts that features 8 yarn lines, as well as a Knit & Weave Loom Kit that’s one of the most versatile knitting loom/weaving tool combinations I’ve ever seen. Second, we have several new yarns in chunky and bulky weights that feature great textures. These will be great for gift projects for the holiday season. Be sure to keep an eye on our newsletter, The Weekly Stitch, and LionBrand.com for announcements. We’ll also, of course, be talking more about them on YarnCraft!

Thank you Liz and Zontee! I can't wait to see what comes next on YarnCraft!

Continuing the celebration, We will be giving one lucky winner a copy of my DVD "Design Your Own Crocheted Baby Sweater" and a few balls of LB Collection Superwash Merino (my favorite for crochet). The cabled cover sweater is made with Lion Brand's Microspun, which is another good yarn for kids.

To enter: Leave a comment here (or email me) your favorite yarn at Lion Brand or your favorite YarnCraft Episode. Enter by Sept 16th at midnight (EST) and I will announce the winner the following week. Good luck!

Stash Busting Sale

2011-09-06T15:31:00.002-04:00

Mark your calendars....

tomorrow starts Interweave's Stash Busting Sale!

Books and more will be marked down... way down. I was told that Blueprint Crochet and Baby Blueprint Crochet will be 40% off. CRAZY! (I don't know if the eBooks, patterns, and DVDs will be on sale. I guess we will have to wait and see.)

In addition to crazy cheap books, they are doing a huge giveaway. One lucky winner will get to choose 5 brand new books from their 2011 lineup, and another 5 will win either Inside the Creative Studio or The Crafter's Guide to Taking Great Photos.

What do you need to do? Either upload a picture of your craft stash (yarn, fabric, crayons... whatever you have that is crafty) to the Stash Bash flickr group or tweet your photo with the hashtag #stashbash

To help with your anxieties of showing it all... Here is a look into my studio and my yarn stash.

So don't forget to check out that sale tomorrow (stashbustersale.com) and enter the giveaway by Sept 16th.

Design time

2011-09-01T15:44:00.001-04:00

Design time
Originally uploaded by rchach

It's September, that must mean it is design time! This month I have 10 projects to design (not including this one). I am hoping to push out the designs so that my crocheter can have time to crochet and not rush. (yes, there is NO way I can crochet 6 sweaters and 4 accessories. in one month. I am shooting for 1 sweater and 4 accessories, plus all this designing)

Today's design is a project I demo'd on the new season of Knit and Crochet Now. Need to get this one in the mail pronto, since the new season starts soon. Nothing like last minute! I still don't know when it starts airing -- either October or January-- I always forget. But I will keep you posted!

Turning the Page

2011-08-30T14:31:00.004-04:00

Over the weekend I traded in my red pen for colored pencils and balls of yarn.

August was officially editing month. All three books where in some stage of editing at once. It was a bit batty keeping them all straight, especially since things like "blp" and "blo" are different book to book. Now that syntax and most of the math are sorted for 2 of the 3 books, it is time to start #4. Right?

Right. Isn't that what you all do? Finish one huge job and move straight into the next. Well, I do.

I haven't had a planning binge in quite a while. Actually the last one was at my old house, so over a year at least. Our dining room table looked like a mess for most of the weekend, until late on Sunday when I had a plan. I always think it is funny that I sketch, swatch, and pull out inspiration; then have to throw most of it out. To boil it all down into a cohesive book. On the wall of the studio are folders hanging for each project in the book. I am a visual person, so I need to see my lists in graphic form. I have the sketch, yarn choice, color, and swatch all in the clear folder just staring at me. They will stay up until I finish the book (or I decide to finally paint... the yellow walls are starting to talk to me.)

Right now its the quiet before the storm. I have the designs chosen and yarns ordered. I have my task list for September worked out (10 projects to design and make in 30 days). Of course, I can't take a real break though. I still have 2 more projects to write up for Knit and Crochet Now (especially since the new season will start airing in a few months!) Besides Sept is only 2 days away.

Hopefully, even though I have the new book starting, I am hoping to be able to have time to blog a bit more about life and writing again. We will see.

Best of Knit It

2011-08-18T19:27:00.004-04:00

This week a got a copy of the book Best of Knit It. Do you remember Knit It? It was a magazine for simpler knitting patterns. I actually loved it. It was all projects that I could tackle at the time.

Well, we now share publishers (Wiley) and they got in a jam and asked me to help them out. They needed a charity shawl that looked really close to the knitted version they already had in about a week. My handy crocheter came to all our rescue and whipped up my design in no time. The result is above and to the side. It came out really cozy in my opinion. Nice to snuggle up with in the winter.

The book has 100 patterns in it of both knitting and crochet. I counted over 30 crochet patterns. So worth your while if you only do one or the other too, especially for the price. The cover shrug I still love all these years later and would still totally make for myself. I will warn you there are some.. eh, winners?... in there. You will see what I mean, but brace yourself for some bulky novelty yarn in a handful of patterns. Most you will like, though, so do just skip those pages. There are sweaters, blankets, toys, hats, and more that have lace, cables, and colorwork. I will also caution that there are no stitch diagrams for the crochet patterns, if you really like them. It is a nice collection though, and a huge book for the price. I mean, 100 patterns?, that is a ton!

Slowly Getting there

2011-08-01T15:06:00.002-04:00

I am slowly, slowly getting through my mountain of work. I can't believe that I only have one project to crochet at the moment. I have two coming but the yarn is not here, so I am pretending they don't exist. Even better is that I only have 2 patterns to write and some technical stuff for the 3rd book. (The picture is another preview of the book, if you have been following these random previews. I have been really really closed lipped about this book on purpose. The content is so awesome that I want it to speak for itself when it comes out next year. All I can say is hold on to your hats!)

My goal is to tie up all these loose ends by the middle of August so I can clear the decks. Literally. I want to throw out everything in my office and finally move in. I need to start sketching and swatching this month for another big project-- and I just can't think in all that junk.

The good news is my family just welcomed another baby this past weekend; so I have another baby to spoil and then give back to her mother. Love that! At least she will keep my hands crocheting, coming up with something cute for her to wear.

Mini-Update

2011-07-27T15:42:00.001-04:00

sneak preview
Originally uploaded by rchach

I have been quiet on twitter and the blog world for a few days since I am in a crunch again. I feel like I am never going to get out of that feeling, but I know I will start finishing these giant books soon.

I finished the first round of edits of the galley copy of Crochet Stitches Visual Encylopedia on monday. That beast of a book had to have over 50 pages cut, it is just that big. I think we were over 300 pages. That is amazing to me since we already cut 50 patterns while I was writing. Can you imagine if we left those in? Needless to say that ate all my free time this weekend (esp since I messed up the deadlines and thought I had another week...)

So I went from turning that in, to finishing up this project. It is for a winter crochet magazine and it is pretty obviously has some classic grannies. The rest you will have to wait to see. But this guy, had me up super late last night crocheting away.

Of course, I have been grinding away all after normal hours since our family from Louisiana is up visiting. Only figures I have crazy deadlines when they are here. So my days have been so funny. Do something fun and touristy in the day, crochet/ write the night away.

At least I am starting to make a small dent in my to do list. I have another chunk to edit and write for Book 3 (of this year) and then I will really feel better. Off to clean the house a bit then jump back in.

New Product Weekly: Sewing in a Straight Line

2011-07-25T07:30:00.006-04:00

Today I have the pleasure of bringing you Brett Bara's new book, Sewing in a Straight Line.

I will say that I have been quite excited for Brett's book. Sewing is a craft I love, but am just not the best at. I always say, "I am ok. I can sew in a straight line. Most of the time". I have made at least one probably everything you can imagine. I'm done one quilt, one skirt, one baby cardigan, one cloth diaper and on and on. I would love to say it is because I am so busy; but really I like to tackle a new project and then move on.

This is why I am so excited for Brett's new book. I now have a ton more projects that I know I can tackle since they all just use a straight line and nothing too fancy.

My hands down favorite in the book, are these lovely bowls. And LOOK! Brett even made a video demo on how to make them. How perfect is that?

Sewing in a Straight Line by Brett Bara – How to Sew a Round Bowl with Straight Lines Only from Rarebit Productions on Vimeo.

A few other projects that caught my eye are the belt and baby quilt. They

look like projects I can tackle and be very proud of finishing. In all there are 26 projects in the book. 16 home, 10 fashion. Each one has great photos of the finish piece, tips on making the project, and illustrations to describe the more complex ideas.

Make sure you stop on by Brett's blog for more videos and a huge giveaway. She is giving away a Singer sewing machine and serger. Winning that prize is like winning the motherload! Make sure you enter!

Brilliant or Awful

2011-07-12T22:25:00.001-04:00

preview
Originally uploaded by rchach

Today I finished a project that I seriously have no idea if it is brilliant or awful. Only time will tell, and I will tell you all more about it as soon as I can.

I will say that it was crocheted with my new favorite superwash wool. Cascade 220 superwash DK weight. Very nice in ball, plus an incredible amount of yardage. Definitely see more projects in this yarn.

Preview and last Winner

2011-07-11T16:37:00.003-04:00

First things first,

I would like to congratulate Diane H on winning the last lot from TNNA. It was great fun dividing everything up,. CJ looked forward to every Monday morning picking out the winners. Thank you all for playing along with me, made my TNNA last all month.

This week brings me a challenge of editing the encyclopedia, finishing the last chapter on Book 5, and designing and writing 3 magazine projects. It is a tall order. No sleep for this mommy, I am sure. I keep thinking that I have to be getting close to the end of my to do list and it keeps growing longer. Kind of like the laundry that never seems to end, even though I do at least a load every day. At the very least I have another preview for you. This one is from the secret Book 5. (In the last 12 mths I wrote 3 books, Book 5 is the last of the 3. I might have called it other things on the blog, I can never fully remember. I have got to get a better secret code name for future ones that is for sure!) This is a highly close up version of the project, but still it is a preview. More on the book when I can. But better get back at in now!

Petals Pullover Crochet-Along

2011-07-05T15:32:00.002-04:00

Check out CrochetMe's latest crochet-along....

Petal Pullover

They will be crocheting the pullover now to the end of August. If you were thinking of crocheting it, it may be nice to join them. I know I like working with others on the same project to be able to ask questions and what not. You can pick up a copy of the issue over at Interweave.

CAN NOT wait to see what everyone creates!

Winner Announced

2011-07-05T08:43:00.002-04:00

I will not lie. I am not ready for our 3 day vacation to be over. I did not turn on my laptop once and just enjoyed friends and family for 3 days. So nice!

But I thought you all would want to know who won that great bag right away. We had over 100 entries between here and ravelry. I put them all in a bowl and let CJ pick over waffles and sesame street this morning. Congrats to RebeccaCrochets over at ravelry. I hope she loves it, I know I love mine. Yes, you guessed it. I did get one myself. For the most part, I am giving away everything from TNNA. I did keep a ball from the blossom street collection, heel cream, tape measures, and my own Namaste bag in peacock. It is fantastic and I am in love! One last giveaway this week!

Also this week I will be working on book 3 (preview above). Actually I will be cramming in book and magazine work this week. I have 2 chapters to work on and a sweater to finish. Better wake up from my vacation mode, and get moving!

TNNA Treasures. part 4

2011-07-04T09:00:00.004-04:00

Last Stop on our TNNA Treasure Tour:

Wooly Goody Bag:

1 ball of Stitch Nation Washable Ewe by Red Heart

2 balls of Gerbera Solid from the Debbie Macomber Blossom Street Collection by Universal Yarns

Heel foot cream by Soak

Tape Measure by Red Heart

Boye wooden Crochet Hook

Key Dot by Polar Knit

So this last group is definitely for the crocheters. Both the Washable ewe ad Gerbera Solid will crochet beautifully. The Heel cream is my favorite and lives in my bag.

Leave a comment here or at Ravelry to enter to win the loot by July 10th. I will announce a winner on Monday.

Design Your Own Baby Sweater

2011-06-28T09:00:00.003-04:00

Coming soon!

Design Your Own Baby Sweater

Missed my Baby Crochet 101 Class? You can take it now in the comfort of your own house. This workshop will be available at Interweave as a video download or as a DVD this July. Each video (download or DVD) includes the a PDF worksheet (that I packed with as much information as I possibly could) and free patterns to test out the techniques we learn. In the baby sweater workshop, the Anna Cardigan and Severin Pullover are the free patterns. The patterns are advanced beginner level for those of you who want to test out my design method before you go crazy on your own version. If you are a chart person, you will not be disappointed. I show how to use crochet symbols to your advantage when working out that sometime funky math. It is the perfect class to take if you really wanted to learn how to make or design garments. Though we do focus on babies, you can translate all the information to adult sweaters. Please let me know if you do make a sweater from the workshop. I would love to make a gallery of finished sweaters!

Hope you enjoy!

Winner and winner

2011-06-27T14:32:00.002-04:00

First, I would like to congratulate Amy on winning the TNNA treasures, part 2. I see on her blog she is teaching a ton of crochet classes, I certainly hope that those goodies come in handy while she is teaching!

Second, did you see Toni's blog post on using my Design Your Own Hat DVD to make her own unique hat? I couldn't be prouder of how well hers came out. You will have to check it out. I think I prouder of her hat them I am of any of mine!

And don't forget to enter to win the TNNA treasures only part 3 and 4 (this week and next) left!

TNNA Treasures. part 3

2011-06-27T09:00:00.002-04:00

TNNA Treasure Tour, part 3 [aka, please do not pass out on me!]

Goody Bag #3:

Lime Green Bitty Bag from Namaste..... [yes, you heard me. Your own Namaste bag. I love this company. They are just the best. This bag is incredible too. Looks small, but you can fit at least 4 balls of yarn plus, your wallet, cell, and notions. It is so well made too.]

2 balls of Eclipse from Red Heart with a hook or knitting needles so you can start working as soon as you get it.

Tape measure from Craftsy.com

Same game as before. Post a comment here or on Ravelry by July 4th, I will announce the winner on Tuesday. Good Luck!

Sneak Previews: Yarn Company Edition

2011-06-24T15:36:00.003-04:00

This week I had 2 finished projects, both which were surprisingly for yarn companies.

The first I could tweet about and you may have seen. It is the Patte Cardigan, but re done for sock yarn. I love the delicate look of the collar against the solid jacket. The pattern and my review Soulmate by Lorna's Laces will be up soon.

The second, I shipped off today. It is a quick crochet project using a worsted weight yarn. I will tell you more details on that later (and where you can find the pattern).

I was just struck that both of these use granny motifs at the collar or hem or sleeve cuff and have a simple stitch pattern every where else. Obviously this is my new thing, since on the hook for next month is the same thing (motif on a skirt part of a sweater). And I did another for Knit and Crochet Now last week. Guess it is my thing. Needing to mix motifs into as many projects as possible.

Digging out and Winner Announced

2011-06-20T09:34:00.004-04:00

First up, thank you everyone here and over at Ravelry who entered the drawing for the first part of my TNNA giveaway. We had over 80 people enter which is so exciting! Especially since the goodies just will keep getting better.

With help from my assistant (shouting stop) over breakfast this morning, we randomly stopped at Ginny's name! Congrats to Ginny! SO excited that you won too. Ginny is an amazing crocheter and I can't wait to see what she cooks up with these tools!

Hope you all come back and see what next I am giving away. There are still 3 more groups left to win.

Today I am spending the day digging out from piles of yarn and project; and emails and tweets. Being away for 10 days certainly takes a toll on your studio. Mine is wrecked. Luckily I got through a lot of the house chores; like getting groceries and cleaning. And am down to this mess. I might leave it for a while. I have these grand hopes on re-organizing the studio now that all our stuff is in one place. That's right, we have all our stuff here. No more "summer house" in Cincinnati. While I was traveling the closing for the old house, finally (and painfully) went through. Even though it will take us a few years to pay back the loan we had to take out to close; at least we will not have to have 2 houses to care and worry over. We are now officially Pittsburghers. I know I am looking forward to concentrating on making this house ours after nearly 11 mths of just getting by.

On the task list the next few weeks, is final edits for the encyclopedia, a few last charts and articles for book 3, proposal for book 4 (hey, have to pay off that loan somehow), and 3 magazine projects. Seems light compared to the crazy schedule I have been keeping. Well, enough dwelling, better start tackling that pile.

TNNA Treasures. part 2

2011-06-20T09:00:00.001-04:00

Next UP on the TNNA treasures tour

Goody Bag #2:

Della Q small project bag [be sure to check out the hidden pocket on these]

Heel cream by Soak [makes a great hand cream to have in your bag while crocheting]

Eucalan Delicate wash [perfect for wet blocking wool projects]

Hook/ Needle/ and Tape Measure from Red Heart

1 Ball of Lhasa Wilderness by Bijou Basin Ranch [sock weight of yak/ bamboo blend- very very nice]

Buttons from JHB

Magnet from Wacky Woollies Collection at the Dublin Gift Co

Yarn Dot from Polar Knit

Button from Lorna's Laces

I'll be honest here, I did not want to give away the Heel cream, I love it that much! Luckily, I got two so I can share. This is the perfect little group for the stitcher that has everything. Everyone always can use extra tape measures and project bags!

Post a comment here or on Ravelry by June 26, and I will announce the winner on Monday. Good Luck!

What I did on my Summer Vacation

2011-06-19T14:41:00.003-04:00

The last 10 days has been quite a lot of traveling for me. It started in Columbus at TNNA and ended in Detroit to tape the next season of Knit and Crochet Now!

Season 4 of Knit and Crochet now will have 13 episodes with projects for babies and kids to garments and accessories to pillows and gifts. It really has a project for everyone on it. There are a ton of tips stuffed into the show, so you will have to watch to see more. I will be on 6 episodes talking crochet, and 5 of those will be new Robyn Chachula patterns. They are so varied of projects that the yarn I had to bring for step-outs took an entire suitcase.

Very nicely my episodes overlapped Drew's so he and I got to hang out together backstage. It was so nice to have my fellow crochet expert to talk episodes with. See when we tape, Drew and Kristin tape their episodes first; then Maggie and I show up and tape ours. Seems so crazy that we are rarely together, but makes it so special when we are! No matter who is around, Brett and I always have a good time, she's my kindred spirit being a fellow Pittsburgher at heart. (At one point both of us where living in each others hometowns to the point of knowing neighbors without knowing each other, crazy. ) And of course Candi is backstage, my mentor in crochet, and we always learn something new from each other. This year we also had Michelle from Simplicity backstage, which was such a nice surprise. She has a fantastic mood that kept all our spirits high even when we got tired, plus lent a hand whenever we were short a step-out or two.

It was such a nice vacation from normal life. I got dressed, showered, and put on make-up everyday. I even got to eat an entire meal sitting down. Crazy! It really was a vacation to just design and crochet and not have to juggle toddler and house as well.

Last season and this season where taped in Detroit Public TV's new building, which is super nice. You can even drive your car into the building to unload, which I got a big chuckle out of driving my stuffed car almost on to the set to unload yarn and such. There are a ton of people behind the scenes on our show. We have 4 cameras on us to get all the views of our hands. There are then a number of people in the control room watching to make sure they get every shot. It is quite impressive how organized they all are behind the scenes.

I have a few more pictures on my flickr set. I believe they will start airing this fall, of course that is all dependent on your local PBS station. Hope you enjoy! I certainly had a blast taping them.

TNNA Treasures. part 1

2011-06-14T14:16:00.003-04:00

TNNA (the national needlework association) this past weekend brought me home with so many goodies that I can not keep them all to myself. I just need to share. Marly Bird (designer, author, podcast host) always arranges for a dinner among the designers where we can all relax and chat. It is always the best way to start the conference. This year she got the sponsors to donate products for goody bags. There were so many generous companies that I have to give them a big thank you.

I thought , sure, I could tell you all about them; but how about giving them away so some of you can see first hand how cool these are! I will have 4 sets of goodies. I plan on giving one away each week, so check back to see what else you might be able to get your hands on.

First up:

Goodies #1: Sheep(ish) [which you can check out my post on here], 1 Boye wooden [very pretty] hook, and a Knit Kit [which you can check out my post here]

Everything in this first lot I use. Boye is my go to hook, if I can't find my Clover or Tulipe. Sheep(ish) I am designing a project in as we speak. And the Knit Kit lives in my purse. That puppy has everything in it (down to a crochet hook!)

For a chance to win, leave a comment here on the blog or a comment over at Ravelry by Sunday June 19th. I will pick a winner and announce on Monday.

New Product Weekly

2011-06-06T15:45:00.003-04:00

This week I am delighted bring you: Go Crochet! Afghan Design Workbook by Ellen Gormley.

The book is brilliantly presented to the reader's as a workbook. There are 50 motifs that are diagrammed and written out. Then there are sections on how to play with color, lay out, and join them together. If not feeling so adventurous the first time, Ellen gives us 10 afghans to spark our creativity. The one on the front is quite the favorite of mine, as is this motif to the right. You can see that each one is diagrammed and written out. At the bottom there are suggestions on which others you can mix and match with. I am quite in love with the spiral bound. You can lay it open flat which you can not do with other books unless you are like me and break them open.

Ellen gives a number of great tips throughout the book. One of my favorites she mentions is to do all the same round on all the colorful motifs while traveling. That way you only have to carry one color of a yarn at a time. I love when there are good sections of helpful advice, and this book has it. It is definitely one to add to your library, and you will return to over and over.

New eBook at Interweave

2011-06-02T16:07:00.003-04:00

Interweave has put together a collection of 6 of my designs into an affordable eBook.

Inside there's:

Bordeaux Cropped Jacket

Lucine Tunic

Their description made me blush and smile!

From the website:

"Meet crochet designer Robyn Chachula in this exclusive designer profile eBook! Inspired by nature, vintage fashion, and old Hollywood movies, Robyn adds modern flare to inspired classics with her designs. Discover Robyn’s unique pattern construction in the Designer Profile eBook, with 6 Crochet Patterns by Robyn Chachula. With this eBook you will not only learn the process that Robyn has perfected to create a finished piece but get a closer look at what inspires her designs (including her cute-as-a-button newborn daughter). You will also get six complete patterns that exemplify the romantic yet modern style of Robyn Chachula’s designs."

Summer Interweave Crochet

2011-06-01T07:24:00.005-04:00

Look who's design is on the cover again!

Back to back covers if you are keeping track at home.

How amazing is that?

The design has been in my sketch pile forever. It is a basic summer tank top that you can throw on on the hottest days of the year, or layer with a jacket when its cooler out. I am still not convinced if the variegated yarn adds or takes away from the stitch pattern. The stitch pattern is a simple shell repeat, nothing too exciting so I am not sure. I do like the two tone. For me I would love it in a navy/ eggplant/ fuchsia collar and a pale yellow or peach body.

The yarn pictured is Manos del Uruguay Serena (60% baby alpaca, 40% pima cotton). It was heavenly to crochet with. I kept a partial ball here in the studio to play with and pet from time to time. If you do have heat waves like we do, you can easily sub in other yarns. Actually, Lustersheen by Red Heart would work really well in its place. I know, acrylic for an alpaca blend, but it would work. Watch the cottons if you try to sub those in, get something in a blend to make it a bit lighter. The collar takes all the weight and cottons can be heavy.

Speaking of the collar, I did use grosgrain ribbon around the edge on the inside to help strengthen. I know it is a pain to sew in a ribbon, but it is SO worth it! I have a few more photos on my flickr site and Interweave has a few on theirs.

The issue is very pretty with lots and lots of lace tops and retro home items. Definitely take a closer look at Linda Perman's top, the vertical lines are really great; and it would be a pretty simple garment to make. The one that has won me over is Kristin Omdahl's tunic. The sleeves and lace are just stunning.

New Product Weekly

2011-05-30T08:50:00.004-04:00

For a bit now, I have had this great inspiration to gaze at while I have been writing the books. It is Vickie Howell and Caron Yarns newest collaboration, Sheep(ish). I LOVE the name. The yarn is a little bit wool and a little bit acrylic, like a little bit country and a little bit rock n roll, hence Sheep (ISH). The yarn you can get directly at buy.Caron.com or in Joann stores (to find exactly where check out this app); which means it is affordable and who doesn't love that?

Details

Weight: Worsted Roving Yarn

Content: 70% Acrylic, 30% Wool

Yardage:
167 yds, 153 m in a 3oz (85g) ball

Suggested Hook size:
H-8 US

Care:
Machine wash cold on gentle cycle. Dry flat

My Take

The yarn is a single ply of soft halo yarn. In crocheting a number of swatches it had not split once. I would recommend trying a larger hook size if you are a tight crocheter like me. I have been using a J/10 (6 mm) hook for the swatches (to the right). For blocking, I would try machine or hand washing in cold water, the full immersion is wh

at the yarn wants. It will behave very well for you after a cold bath.

Project Ideas

It is a bulky yarn for crochet. It would make quick and fun accessories, toys, or afghans.

But that is my take, Vickie was nice enough to sit down and answer come questions I had about the yarn. Here's our chat:

RC: The first thing I noticed with Sheep(ish) was the colors. What was your color inspiration when designing the yarn?

VH: I worked really hard on getting the palette just right, so it makes me happy when people notice the colors. Thanks for mentioning it! First and foremost, I wanted to be ab

le to bring some of the amazing colors you find in higher-end yarns to the mass market. Affordable doesn't have to look cheap. It was really important to me that the grays and browns in the line looked rich and luscious. I'm inspired by shades from the 5

0's, 60's & 70's, so in the line I went for super-saturated, retro-chic colors. Each Sheep(ish) color is meant to bring some pop to otherwise plain outfit or room, giving your existing wardrobe or home furnishing pieces more milage.

RC: You live in TX and this is a worsted weight wool blend yarn. For me, I love it but I am in Pittsburgh; for you how did you decide on a wool medium weight?

VH: I live much of my knitting & crochet life in denial, really. Just kidding. Honestly though, we don't wear much of the stuff I make because it's so hot here a good portion of the year. That's a drag, but certainly doesn't stop me from loving working with wool blends. I love 'em!

RC: The yarn has this great halo while having this really shiny sheen. What projects would you be drawn to making from it?

VH: Thanks--the halo is from the wool and the sheen from the acrylic--they work like Wonder Twins together! Because of the aforementioned combo, Sheep(ish) works great for kids items, comfy hats, gloves & sweaters, and home decor items. It's pretty versatile.

RC: The yarn is also silly soft, much softer then you think of when you think wool. Was that a key item for you?

VH: Absolutely. Kids won't wear things that aren't soft, so as a mother of 3 that factor was important to me. Also, softer yarn is more enjoyable to stitch with--I want people to love working with it as much as they dig their finished projects!

For some other project ideas, check out the free patterns on Vickie's pattern page.

To hear what others have to say, here is the full tour schedule:

May 25th: BlogHer.com (Kathy Cano-Murillo)

May 26th: LindaMade.com (Linda Permann)

May 27th: Kitschy Digitals (Danielle Thompson)

May 28th: DOUBLE POST DAY:

CraftyChica.com (Kathy Cano-Murillo) + JustCastingOn.net (Deb Steenhagen)

May 29th: Susan B. Anderson

May 30th: CrochetbyFaye.com (Robyn Chachula)

May 31st: CathieFilian.com (Yarn Wreath Project by Cathie)

June 1st: Craftzine.com (Review by Sister Diane)

June 2nd: Knitgrrl.com (1 Skein Project by Shannon Okey)

June 3rd: CraftyisCool.com (Allison Hoffman)

June 4th: Coquette Blog (Natalie Zee-Drieu)

June 5th About.com (Sarah White)

June 6th: Manhattan Craft Room (Brett Bara)

June 7th: BetzWhite.com

June 8th: TheCrochetDude.com (Drew Emborsky)

June 9th: Naughtysecretaryclub.com & Ilovetocreate.com (Dual post on the same day. Yarn-wrapped mobil by Jennifer Perkins)

June 10th: Craftzine.com (Ladybug Outfit Pattern by Vickie)

June 11th: StephanieJapel.com

Little Crochet Winner

2011-05-25T15:46:00.001-04:00

I forgot to mention....

Congratulations to Andrea, you are our winner of Linda Permann's Little Crochet.

(send me a email with your address and i will get it out this week)

New Product Weekly

2011-05-25T15:14:00.004-04:00

I have a bunch of really really cool yarn and books surrounding me in the studio, so many that I hope to weekly show them to you. To inspire me and hopefully some of you to give them a go.

Up first is an amazing yarn that I have already dove into and made a project for the new book (uh, the last secret book that is- I don't know, number 6, I think.)

Anyway...

Blue Sky Techno

Details

68% baby alpaca / 10% extra fine merino / 22% silk

109 yds in 50g hanks

I'd recommend using a K/10.5 hook

From the website:

A modern take on 1970’s neon and natural, the line includes seven groovy pop colors perfectly balanced with six granola-lover neutrals. Modern technology makes Techno a feather-weight genius: baby alpaca is blown into a mesh tube of silk for really fast knitting with literally no

splitting.

My take

Everything above is 100% true. It is a really fun yarn to crochet with, it doesn't split like they say. You can see in the picture of the yarn cakes that there really is no ply, so there is nothing to split. Clever, no? The yarn also gives this cool halo around pretty defined stitches. It and project are ridiculously soft. I mean, silly soft. So soft that CJ has taken my project and run off with it so many times I can't even count to cuddle with while she is reading.

Project ideas

Since it is pretty bulky for crochet, I'd use it for accessories. Especially since it is so soft, I would wrap your face in it. Scarves, cowls, hats, ascots, shrugs; are totally up its alley. Plus, the color range is so much fun you could make the best pillows and toys from it too. A little bit retro and totally funky. I really had a blast envisioning what to make with the neutral and neon bright colors. My project for the book uses Rogue, Cha-Cha Red, and Tonic Orange; just those names alone bring a smile. That being the case, this yarn is definitely something you want to do with a stitch pattern that has color work in it. It will make it jump off for sure.

Overall, I think it will make a fabulous yarn this winter. Not only is it soft and warm, it is bright and cheerful for those gray cold days. Definitely something to keep in mind, when shopping in the future.