Cookie Crumble Shrug Crochet Pattern

I finished my first ever piece of crochet clothing, and I'm happy to finally be able to share it with you!  Like most crocheters, clothing intimidates me.. but I wanted to take the plunge and try something new.

At first, I tried my hand at a cardigan of my own design and it was just not working out.  I opted for something a lot more simple. Like.. crochet a rectangle and sew some sides together simple. That's how easy this shrug is!

You may have seen many other variations of this shrug, and to be honest I wasn't 100% sold on the idea.  How can a square/rectangle possibly be clothing? Once I worked this up with a delicious Caron Big Cake - I was persuaded. Big time. I love the striping of this yarn and how soft it is! (It's even 100% acrylic which is a win for me as I can't wear wool items too long without getting itchy.)

To me, this is perfect lounge wear to cozy up in.  Pair this shrug with a nice cup of something hot, slippers and some yarn or a book - you'll have the perfect little slice of heaven on Earth.

I found the stitch in my one and only stitch dictionary (link below), and it worked up so quickly. The name of the stitch is called "Rope Stitch". I used this stitch for my infinity scarf that I worked up with the Sprinkles Caron cake, which is a super bulky weight. You can see how that worked up and get the free pattern here.

I wanted to use just one Caron Big Cake for this so I did some edging to make it the size I needed. If you make a larger size (which I have instructions on how to make this bigger below) and use the Caron Big Cakes, you will need another cake in order to complete the shrug.


Materials
Caron Big Cake in Cookie Crumble (2 cakes if you are making medium, large, or XL)
Worsted weight yarn in black
I/5.25mm hook
Tapestry needle
Scissors

Amazon Picks(affiliate links)


Gauge
4" x 4" - 12 stitches x 7 rows in DC

Abbreviations
Ch = Chain, DC = double crochet, st - stitch(es), HDC = Half double crochet

Sizes

The two things that will be different for the sizes are the beginning chain and the number of rows. Below, I have the sizes with the corresponding number of beginning chains and number of rows to complete. Everything else in the pattern will be the same.

Small: Measures 36" from armhole to armhole - Beginning chain 114 ; 48 rows
Medium: Measures 38" from armhole to armhole - Beginning chain 120 ; 48 rows
Large: Measures 40" from armhole to armhole - Beginning chain 126 ; 50 rows
XL: Measures 42" from armhole to armhole - Beginning chain 132 ; 50 rows

Pattern

Row 1: Chain beginning number of chains according to size you are making, DC in 4th ch from hook, ch 1, DC in next ch, *skip 1, DC in next st, ch 1, DC in next st, repeat from * across, DC in last st, turn
Row 2: Ch 3, skip next 2 DC, *(DC, Ch 1, DC) all in ch 1 space from previous row, skip next 2 DC, repeat from * across, skip last DC, DC into ch 3, turn
Repeat Row 2 until you have the number of rows needed for the size you are making

With black yarn, attach anywhere to the rectangle.
Chain 2, HDC around, join to beginning HDC
Repeat until you have 4 rows total
Fasten off

Assembly

1. Lay your rectangle flat. It should be longer horizontally.
2. Fold the rectangle down in half.
3. Starting at the bottom edge of one side, use a tapestry needle and black yarn to sew up the side until you have about 8 inches left. This will be an arm hole. *You can adjust this as needed if you would like a bigger or smaller opening*
4. Repeat on the opposite side.
5. Weave in all ends.

WEEK 4 - Christmas Granny Afghan CAL - Rudolph Applique Free Crochet Pattern

Welcome to Week 4 of the CAL!

*I hope you're enjoying the crochet along so far! If you haven't hopped on over to the Facebook group - you can join here to share your progress and to ask questions!

This week we will be working up 8 granny squares and the Reindeer/Rudolph Applique.
All the patterns and video tutorials that you will need are below.

If you would like to purchase the complete pattern and work ahead or at your own pace, you may do so here on Ravelry.

If you need to go back to the main page of the CAL for previous weeks - click here.

If you need to take another look at the materials list - click here.

Week 4
Make 4 granny squares in Linen
Make 4 granny squares in Kelly Green
Make 4 Rudolph appliques
Weave in all ends!

You can find the GRANNY SQUARE PATTERN HERE!

Materials
Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice in:
Taupe
Beige
White
Scarlet

G hook
6mm safety eyes
Tapestry needle
Scissors

Notes

Beginning chain in rounds do not count as a stitch

Special stitches used: SC foundation chain 

Pattern

Head - Taupe

Row 1: Magic ring, Ch 1, 12 SC in ring, join to first SC 

Row 2: Chain 1, SC in next 3 stitches, 2 SC into each of the next 3 spaces, SC in next 2 stitches, 2 SC into each of the next 3 spaces, join

Row 3: Chain 1, SC in next 6 stitches, 2 SC into each of the next 3 spaces, SC in next 6 stitches, 2 SC into each of the next 3 spaces, join

Row 4: Chain 1, SC all around, join (24)

Row 5: Chain 1, SC in next 7 stitches, 1 HDC, 2 DC in each of the next 8 stitches, 1 HDC, SC in next 8 stitches, join to first SC

Fasten off and leave long tail for sewing onto granny square

Antlers - Beige

We will be working the horns in the 4th and 5th stitches to the right (right antler) and the 4th and 5th stitches to left (left antler) of the space where we joined for the head. Because we are working in the round and from right to left, where we start the left and right antler will be a slightly different. Pay attention to what # stitch you are inserting your hook into.

*I have provided pictures below to help aide you in starting the antler (specifically shown for the left horn)

Right Antler:

Insert your hook into the 5th space to the right of the join and attach taupe color. Chain 1 to secure, insert and pull up a loop into space to the left (4th space to the right of the join). **YO pull through one, YO pull through both loops. (That completes your first SC foundation) Continue to SC foundation crochet until you have 6 SC foundation crochets. Chain 4, treble crochet into SC foundation nearest to chain. Slip stitch into same space. Slip stitch into next two spaces. [Slip stitch, chain 2, DC, Slip stitch] all into next space. Slip stitch until you get back to the head portion. Slip stitch into 4th space to the right of the join on the head portion. Fasten off and leave tail for sewing onto granny square.

Left Antler:

Insert hook into 4th space to the left of the join, attach taupe color. Chain 1 to secure, insert and pull up a loop into the space to the left (5th space to the right of the join). Follow direction from ** for the right antler.

Ears - Taupe

Left ear

Attach taupe one space below the horn, SC into same space and next space, turn 

Chain 1, SC decrease

Fasten off

Right ear

Attach choclate brown yarn into two spaces below horn

SC into same space and next space, turn

Chain 1, decrease

Fasten off

Nose - Scarlet

Magic Ring, Chain 1, work the following into the ring: 2SC, 2DC, 2SC, 2DC, join to first SC.

Fasten off and leave tail for sewing

Eyes - white - make 2

Magic ring, Chain 1, 8SC into ring, join to first SC

Fasten off and leave tail for sewing

Attach safety eyes into white eye centers. Place eyes onto head and place safety eye backings on the back of the head.

OR create a french knot with black yarn and a tapestry needle on the whites of the eyes.

Video Tutorial

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Skeleton Beanie Crochet Pattern

This is Halloween, this is Halloween, Halloween.. Halloween.. Halloween.. Did you sing that in your head, too? So you're a Nightmare Before Christmas fan, too?  I'm a fan of the movie and it's totally appropriate to watch from now until the end of the year! (Or all year round, right?) My son is also a fan of the movie so I made this beanie with a Jack Skellington applique.

This beanie was made last year (photo below) for him and it was something I sold at the time when I wa I sold quite a few, so I thought I would share the pattern with you all this year now that I have my own little blog to do so!

This year, we have already went through our Fall/Winter hats and decided which ones he wanted to wear again and discussed what kind of new hats he wanted me to make this year. He wanted to keep the skeleton hat, but I had to remake it in a larger size this year :)

I wrote up the pattern in multiple sizes: 6-12 months, toddler, child, and adult. Check the parenthesis for head circumference to pick the best size you need.

Update: I made a matching beanie for myself in a messy bun beanie style! In our case, it is a 'mommy and me' set. Both patterns are written in multiple sizes!

Click here for the Messy Bun version

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Sharing in any way helps my blog going and free patterns coming - thank you!

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Free Crochet Pattern

Materials:

Worsted weight yarn in black, gray, white

H/5.0mm hook

G/4.0mm hook

Tapestry needle

Scissors

Amazon Picks (affiliate links):

Gauge: 4"x4" = 12 stitches x 7 rows in DC

Pattern notes:

Chain 2 in beginning of rounds do not count as a stitch

Pattern

6-12 months (16” circumference)

 Starting with black

Round 1: Magic ring, Chain 2, 12 DC into ring, join to first DC (12)

Change to gray

Round 2: Chain 2, 2 DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (24)

Change to black

Round 3: Chain 2, *DC, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (36)

Change to gray

Round 4: Chain 2, *DC in next 2 stitches, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (48)

Change to black

Round 5: Chain 2, DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (48)

Change to gray

Round 6-10: Chain 2, DC in each stitch around, join to first DC

Changing colors for each row to complete the gray-black pattern

Continue with black yarn for the remaining rows

Row 11-13: Chain 1, SC in each stitch around, join to first SC

Fasten off and weave in tail

 Toddler size (18” circumference)

 Starting with black

 Round 1: Magic ring, Chain 2, 12 DC into ring, join to first DC (12)

Change to gray

Round 2: Chain 2, 2 DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (24)

Change to black

Round 3: Chain 2, *DC, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (36)

Change to gray

Round 4: Chain 2, *DC in next 2 stitches, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (48)

Change to black

Round 5: Chain 2, *DC in next 7 stitches, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (54)

Change to gray

Round 6-11: Chain 2, DC in each stitch around, join to first DC

Changing colors for each row to complete the gray-black pattern

Work the remaining rounds in black

Round 12-14: Chain 1, SC in each stitch around, join to first SC

Fasten off and weave in tail

 Child size (20” circumference)

 Starting with black

 Round 1: Magic ring, Chain 2, 12 DC into ring, join to first DC (12)

Change to gray

Round 2: Chain 2, 2 DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (24)

Change to black

Round 3: Chain 2, *DC, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (36)

Change to gray

Round 4: Chain 2, *DC in next 2 stitches, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (48)

Change to black

Round 5: Chain 2, *DC in next 3 stitches, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (60)

Change to gray

Round 6: Chain 2, DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (63)

Change to gray

Round 7-11: Chain 2, DC in each stitch around, join to first DC

Changing colors for each row to complete the gray-black pattern

Work the remaining rows in black

Round 12-14: Chain 1, SC in each stitch around, join to first SC

Fasten off and weave in tail

 Adult size (21” circumference)

 Starting with black

 Round 1: Magic ring, Chain 2, 12 DC into ring, join to first DC (12)

Change to gray

Round 2: Chain 2, 2 DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (24)

Change to black

Round 3: Chain 2, *DC, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (36)

Change to gray

Round 4: Chain 2, *DC in next 2 stitches, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (48)

Change to black

Round 5: Chain 2, *DC in next 3 stitches, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (60)

Change to gray

Round 6: Chain 2, *DC in next 19 stitches, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (63)

Change to gray

Round 7-12: Chain 2, DC in each stitch around, join to first DC

Changing colors for each row to complete the gray-black pattern

Work the remaining rounds in black

Round 13-15: Chain 1, SC in each stitch around, join to first SC

Fasten off and weave in tail

 Skeleton Applique

 Using white and a G hook

 Make a magic ring

Round 1: Magic ring, 10 HDC in ring, join to first HDC

Round 2: Chain 2, 2HDC in each stitch around, join to first HDC

Round 3: Chain 2, *2HDC, HDC, repeat from * around, join to first HDC

Round 4: Chain 2, *2HDC, HDC in next 2 stitches, repeat from * around, join to first HDC

Fasten off and leave tail for sewing onto hat

 Eyes - black - G hook

 Round 1: Magic ring, 10 HDC in ring, join to first HDC

Fasten off and leave tail for sewing

Make 2 eyes

 Sew eyes onto circle

Sew on mouth using a tapestry needle and black yarn

Sew applique onto side of hat.

Please share with me on Instagram or Facebook with your finished works! I would love to see them!!

WEEK 3 - Christmas Granny Afghan CAL - Christmas Tree Applique Free Crochet Patter

Welcome to Week 3 of the CAL!

Many of you are zipping right along, and it's so neat to see everyone's progress! I'm also enjoying seeing everyone's variations - so fun! If at any time you have questions, hop on over to the Facebook group - you can join here. I try to be very present in the group, so I'll be there to help you out! If you'd like - you may also shoot me an email mariasbluecrayon@gmail.com

This week we will be working up 8 granny squares and the Christmas Tree Applique.
All the patterns and video tutorials that you will need are below.

If you would like to purchase the complete pattern, you may do so here on Ravelry.

If you need to go back to the main page of the CAL - click here.

If you need to take another look at the materials list - click here.

Week 3
Make 4 granny squares in Linen
Make 4 granny squares in Kelly Green
Make 4 tree appliques and sew them onto Linen squares
Weave in all ends!

You can find the GRANNY SQUARE PATTERN HERE

Materials:
Lion Brand Vanna's Choice in:
Kelly Green, Taupe, Mustard
G hook
Tapestry needle
Scissors

Pattern notes:

Chain 1 in the beginning of each row does not count as a stitch

SC2tog - single crochet 2 together AKA decrease is worked as follows: insert hook into stitch, pull up a loop, insert hook into next stitch, pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through all loops

Loop stitch is worked as follows: (hold the working yarn around your index finger) insert hook into stitch, grab the yarn from behind the index finger as well as the yarn in front of the index finger, pull up a loop (at this point you can pull the working yarn to make the loop on the backside of the work smaller or pull the loop to be bigger), yarn over, pull through all loops on hook. This will create a loop on the backside of your work

Pattern:

Tree - Kelly Green

Row 1: Chain 13
Row 2: SC into second chain from hook and across, turn (12)
Row 3: Chain 1, loop stitch across, turn (12)
Row 4: Chain 1, SC2tog, 8 SC, SC2tog, turn (10)
Row 5: Chain 1, loop stitch across, turn (10)
Row 6: Chain 1, SC2tog, 6 SC, SC2tog, turn (8)
Row 7: Chain 1, loop stitch across, turn (8)
Row 8: Chain 1, SC2tog, 4 SC, SC2tog, turn (6)
Row 9: Chain 1, loop stitch across, turn (6)
Row 10: Chain 1, SC2tog, 2 SC, SC2tog, turn (4)
Row 11: Chain 1, loop stitch across, turn (4)
Row 12: Chain 1, SC2tog, SC2tog, turn (2)
Row 13: Chain 1, loop stitch across, turn (2)
Row 14: Chain 1, SC2tog, turn (1)
Row 15: Chain 1, loop stitch across, turn (1)
Fasten off and leave tail for sewing onto granny square

Tree trunk - Taupe

Attach yarn into 6th stitch on the bottom of the tree
Row 1: Chain 1, SC in same space and next space
Row 2: Chain 1, SC across next 2 stitches, turn
Row 3: Chain 1, SC across next 2 stitches, turn
Fasten off and leave tail for sewing onto granny square


Star - Mustard

Magic ring, Chain 2, *DC, slip stitch, repeat from * 4 more times
Fasten off, leave tail for sewing
Sew onto top of tree

Video Tutorial

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Kool-aid yarn dying 2.0

This post may contain affiliate links.

Earlier this summer, I experimented with Kool-aid dying for the first time. I had no idea what I was doing and the whole time I kept thinking - what if I mess up? Am I doing this right? After doing it once, I had a better sense of what I was doing and made notes for the 'next time' I would dye some yarn with kool-aid. That 'next time' was a few days ago. I did some things differently, but I feel that it was for the better!

The first time I dyed yarn, it came out speckled and had a tie-dye effect, which I wasn't going for - but it still turned out pretty! You can check out the first time I dyed yarn here. I provide the resource for how I did it, added notes for next time, and listed some pros and cons for this particular method.

This time around, I wanted just one color and to avoid the tie-dye look. I wanted something that I could make a nice scarf and/or hat out of. I ditched the ice cube method I used the first time and just poured the mixed Kool-aid right onto the yarn before setting it outside to 'bake'.

The result was better than I could have imagined!! You will notice, the dye didn't set consistently throughout the yarn, but I think it gives it good character. In the picture below, it looks like the lighting washes out part of the yarn making it look lighter, but it really is lighter in those places!

I think what happened is when I put the yarn in the baking dish, I folded it in half so there was a 'top' portion and a 'bottom' portion.  My theory is that either the dye settled to the bottom more OR that the sun washed out the top layer just a bit.

Here's exactly what I used and how I achieved this color yarn.

Note: I did this on a sunny, warm day so I could 'bake' the yarn outside and not have to use other heating methods to set the dye.

Materials:
2 packets Sharkleberry Fin Kool-Aid
3 cups water (I used cold - not sure if there is a difference if I would've used warm)
Vinegar&water for pre-soak
Large pot/bowl for soaking
Baking dish for yarn to 'bake'
Plastic wrap to cover
1 skein Wool of Andes worsted from Knit Picks - you can browse their bare yarns here
(they also have other weights of yarn in wool you can use)


Step 1: Pre-soak with warm water and vinegar.
Fill up a large pot or bowl with warm water, add vinegar (I didn't measure, I poured maybe a little less than a cup of vinegar in with the water)
Put the yarn in the water/vinegar mixture, making sure all the yarn is saturated
Allow to soak for 30 minutes

Step 2: Prepare kool-aid mix. Mix 2 packets of kool-aid with 3 cups cold of water.

Step 3: Take the yarn out of the water/vinegar mixture after 30 minutes. Squeeze out water, careful not to tangle the yarn or twist it like you would wring out a wash cloth. It should still be damp after you squeeze out as much water as you can.

Step 4: Lay yarn in baking dish. Pour kool-aid mixture all over yarn. Gently push yarn down to make sure all yarn is soaked in kool-aid mixture.

Step 5: Cover with plastic wrap

Step 6: Set in the sun on a warm day for about 3-4 hours. You will know when it's 'done' when the remaining water is clear and when you squeeze the yarn, color does not bleed.

Step 7: Rinse yarn (if color is bleeding, set yarn back outside to bake).

Step 8: Lay out to dry. I dried mine in the sun for a few hours and then brought it in the shade to dry completely. The longer you keep it laid in the sun, the lighter it will become. If you are happy with the color after rinsing it, lay it in the shade to dry.


Have fun with this, get creative!! And please share with me on Instagram or on my Facebook page!

Trevor Slouchy Beanie Crochet Pattern

You may purchase the ad-free PDF printable on Ravelry for $1.00 which includes toddler, child, adult, and adult large sizes. Thank you for your support!

**Scroll down for the free pattern!!

Every year I make my son several hats for the cold months, and every year he has his 'go to' hat that he prefers. This slouchy beanie is easily going to be that go-to hat this year.

He seems to prefer simple beanies without the earflaps so this is the first one I whipped up for him.  He has already worn it several times on the cooler mornings we have had and offering another hat is just ludicrous to him.

He is very particular about hats, so when he keeps them on for more than ten minutes - you know it's a comfortable hat.  The yarn I used for this was on clearance at Michael's. I fell in love with the color way and had to pick it up even though there was only one skein left.  The one skein worked perfectly for this perfect little slouch for my little guy. :) The yarn is Lion Brand's Woolspun which is 20% wool/80%acrylic. It's super soft and nice to work with.

This slouchy is unisex although the name of the beanie may infer differently. (I just had to name it after my son since it is his go-to hat this year!) It's available to make in the following sizes: toddler, child, adult, and large adult. In the pattern below, make sure to take a peek at the head circumference size in parenthesis to choose the best size.

Pattern notes:

Beginning chain in each round does not count as a stitch.

The yarn used (Lion Brand Woolspun) is considered a bulky 5 weight yarn, but I have found it a bit thinner than the usual bulky 5 yarn.  I would suggest sticking to the Lion Brand Woolspun when following this pattern to get the correct size. If you need to substitute, I would chose a medium 4 weight but I can't guarantee what the outcome will be.

You can easily make this slouch 'slouchier' by adding more rows to the beanie (keep repeating rows 5-6 for toddler&child size or keep repeating rows 6-7 for adult sizes)

Materials
Lion Brand Woolspun (2 skein for child and adult sizes)
-color used in photos: Sea Mist Mix
K/6.50mm hook
Tapestry needle
Scissors

Gauge
4" x 4" = 12 stitches x 5 Rows of double crochets

Pattern

Toddler (18" circumference)

Round 1: Make a magic ring, Chain 2, 12 DC into ring, join to first DC (12)
Round 2: Chain 2, 2DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (24)
Round 3: Chain 2, *2DC, DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (36)
Round 4: Chain 2, *2DC, DC in next 5 stitches, repeat from * around, join to first DC (42)
Round 5: Chain 2, DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (42)
Round 6: Chain 2, HDC in each stitch around, join to first DC (42)
Repeat Rows 5-6 until you have 16 rows total
Round 17: Chain 1, SC in each stitch around, join to first SC
Fasten off and weave in ends

Child (20" circumference)

Round 1: Make a magic ring, Chain 2, 12 DC into ring, join to first DC (12)
Round 2: Chain 2, 2DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (24)
Round 3: Chain 2, *2DC, DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (36)
Round 4: Chain 2, *2DC, DC in next 2 stitches, repeat from * around, join to first DC (48)
Round 5: Chain 2, DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (48)
Round 6: Chain 2, HDC in each stitch around, join to first HDC (48)
Repeat Rows 5-6 until you have 18 rows total
Round 19: Chain 1, SC in each stitch around, join to first SC
Fasten off and weave in ends

Adult (21" circumference)

Round 1: Make a magic ring, Chain 2, 12 DC into ring, join to first DC (12)
Round 2: Chain 2, 2DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (24)
Round 3: Chain 2, *2DC, DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (36)
Round 4: Chain 2, *2DC, DC in next 2 stitches, repeat from * around, join to first DC (48)
Round 5: Chain 2, *2DC, DC in next 15 stitches, repeat from * around, join to first DC (51)
Round 6: Chain 2, HDC in each stitch around, join to first DC (51)
Round 7: Chain 2, DC in each stitch around, join to first HDC (51)
Repeat Rows 6-7 until you have 19 rows total
Round 20: Chain 2, HDC in each stitch around, join to first HDC
Round 21: Chain 1, SC in each stitch around, join to first SC
Fasten off and weave in ends

Adult large (22" circumference)

Round 1: Make a magic ring, Chain 2, 12 DC into ring, join to first DC (12)
Round 2: Chain 2, 2DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (24)
Round 3: Chain 2, *2DC, DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (36)
Round 4: Chain 2, *2DC, DC in next 2 stitches, repeat from * around, join to first DC (48)
Round 5: Chain 2, *2DC, DC in next 7 stitches, repeat from * around, join to first DC (54)
Round 6: Chain 2, HDC in each stitch around, join to first DC (54)
Round 7: Chain 2, DC in each stitch around, join to first HDC (54)
Repeat Rows 6-7 until you have 19 rows total
Round 20: Chain 2, HDC in each stitch around, join to first HDC
Round 21: Chain 1, SC in each stitch around, join to first SC
Fasten off and weave in ends

If you would like to purchase an ad-free printable on Ravelry, you may do so here. (Or save it to your Ravelry for safe keeping!)

WEEK 2 - Christmas Granny Afghan CAL - Snowman Applique Free Crochet Pattern

Welcome to Week 2 of the CAL!

I hope you're enjoying the crochet along so far! If you haven't hopped on over to the Facebook group - you can join here to share your progress and to ask questions!

I know a lot of you are new to appliques - don't be scared of them! Sewing them on isn't the most enjoyable either, but it will be a lot better if you don't wait until the end. ;) To help you out, here is a good YouTube tutorial on how to sew these little guys on: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukil6fPT9BY
Also, I've seen people in the group sew the appliques on with thread, which is genius! You can sew them on using a running stitch (just back and forth through the square) and you won't see where you sewed it!

This week we will be working up 8 granny squares and the Snowman Applique.
All the patterns and video tutorials that you will need are below.

If you would like to purchase the complete pattern, you may do so here on Ravelry.

If you need to go back to the main page of the CAL to see previous weeks - click here.

If you need to take another look at the materials list - click here.

Week 2
Make 4 granny squares in Linen
Make 4 granny squares in Scarlet
Make 4 snowman appliques and sew them onto Linen squares
Weave in all ends!

Find the GRANNY SQUARE PATTERN HERE! I've updated it with extra photos to help with those stitch counts ;)

Materials 
Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice in:
White
Black
Terracotta
G hook
6mm safety eyes
Tapestry needle
Scissors

Notes:

Chain in the beginning of each round/row does not count as a stitch

You may substitute safety eyes by using black yarn to make french knots. You can find a good YouTube tutorial here on how to make french knots here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5BHO_Cnvzs

Pattern

Head - White

Round 1: Magic ring, Chain 2, 10HDC into ring, join to first HDC
Round 2: Chain 2, 2 HDC into each stitch around, join to first HDC
Round 3: Chain 2, *2HDC, HDC, repeat from * around, fasten off and leave tail for sewing onto granny square

Hat - Black

Row 1: Chain 16, HDC into 3rd chain from hook, HDC into remaining stitches, fasten off
Row 2: Attach black to 4th stitch from the right, Chain 2, HDC into same space and into the next 7 stitches, turn
Row 3: Chain 2, HDC across into 8 stitches, turn
Row 4-5: repeat Row 3
Fasten off and leave tail for sewing onto granny square
Sew hat onto head

Eyes

Attach safety eyes or create a french knot with black yarn and a tapestry needle.

Nose

Using terra cotta and tapestry needle, sew on nose by first making the triangle outline, then filling it in using back stitches

Mouth

Using black yarn and tapestry needle, sew on mouth using a back stitch along the curve between the 2nd and 3rd rounds of the head.
*back stitch: insert needle and yarn from the back to the front, send the needle back down one space over, bring needle back up to the front one space over, insert your needle back down to the left next to previous stitch

Video tutorial

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Frankenstein Hat Crochet Pattern

It feels like Fall here in Central PA! Mid-50 mornings warming up to high-60s are my kind of days. 

With Fall comes, Halloween and I'm a big fan! Years ago, I made my son a frankenstein hat and I even sold a couple when I was selling my finished items.  I came across a picture and I thought - I should write up a pattern for that!

The green I used this time around is Spring Green from Red Heart Super Saver.  As you can tell in the picture of my son modeling it years ago, I used a different green. I can't tell you the exact color name off the top of my head - but I can tell you it is the brand "I Love This Yarn!" from Hobby Lobby. I think it's more of a true "Frankenstein green", but I picked up the Red Heart out of convenience, plus I think it looks just as good! It also isn't an EXACT replica, because I never wrote down the pattern but I did the best I could from what I had ;)

The pattern comes in the following sizes: 6-12 months, toddler, child, and adult. Be sure to look at the circumference in parenthesis to help you chose what size you will need.

Materials:

Worsted weight yarn in green, black, white, gray

(I used Red Heart Super Saver Spring Green)

Small amount of poly-fill for bolts

H hook

Tapestry needle

Scissors

Notes: 

Chain 2 does not count as a stitch in the beginning of the rounds

2DC -  two double crochet in same stitch

spike stitch - double crochet one row below making a ‘spike’

HDC2tog - YO, insert hook in stitch, pull up a loop, insert hook in next stitch, pull up a loop, YO, pull through all loops on hook

You can change up the look of the 'hair' by using more/ess spike stitches or making them randomly. I tried to keep it easy as possible by repeating a sequence for pattern purposes.

Gauge: 4"x4" in double crochet = 12 stitches x 8 rows

Abbreviations:

YO - yarn over

DC - double crochet

HDC - half double crochet

SC - single crochet

HDC2tog - half double crochet 2 together

Hat

6-12 months (16” circumference)

Starting with black

Round 1: Magic ring, Chain 2, 12 DC into ring, join to first DC (12)

Round 2: Chain 2, 2 DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (24)

Round 3: Chain 2, *DC, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (36)

Round 4: Chain 2, *DC in next 2 stitches, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (48)

Round 5: Chain 2, DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (48)

Change to green

Round 6: Chain 2, DC in next 14 stitches, *spike stitch, DC in next 2 stitches, spike stitch in next 2 stitches, DC in next 2 stitches, repeat from * 2 more times, DC into remaining stitches, join to first DC

Round 7-11: Chain 2, DC in each stitch around, join to first DC

Fasten off and weave in tail

Toddler size (18” circumference)

Starting with black

Round 1: Magic ring, Chain 2, 12 DC into ring, join to first DC (12)

Round 2: Chain 2, 2 DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (24)

Round 3: Chain 2, *DC, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (36)

Round 4: Chain 2, *DC in next 2 stitches, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (48)

Round 5: Chain 2, *DC in next 7 stitches, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (54)

Change to green

Round 6: Chain 2, DC in next 17 spaces, *spike stitch, DC in next 2 spaces, spike stitch in next two spaces, DC in next two spaces, repeat from * two more times, DC in remaining 16 stitches, join to first DC

Round 7-12: Chain 2, DC in each stitch around, join to first DC

Fasten off and weave in tail

Child size (20” circumference)

Starting with black

Round 1: Magic ring, Chain 2, 12 DC into ring, join to first DC (12)

Round 2: Chain 2, 2 DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (24)

Round 3: Chain 2, *DC, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (36)

Round 4: Chain 2, *DC in next 2 stitches, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (48)

Round 5: Chain 2, *DC in next 3 stitches, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (60)

Round 6: Chain 2, DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (63)

Change to green

Round 7: Chain 2, DC in next 20 stitches, *spike stitch, DC in next 2 stitches, spike stitch in next 2 stitches, DC in next 2 stitches, repeat from * 2 more times, DC into remaining stitches, join to first DC

Round 8-13: Chain 2, DC in each stitch around, join to first DC

Fasten off and weave in tail

Adult size (21” circumference)

Starting with black

Round 1: Magic ring, Chain 2, 12 DC into ring, join to first DC (12)

Round 2: Chain 2, 2 DC in each stitch around, join to first DC (24)

Round 3: Chain 2, *DC, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (36)

Round 4: Chain 2, *DC in next 2 stitches, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (48)

Round 5: Chain 2, *DC in next 3 stitches, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (60)

Round 6: Chain 2, *DC in next 19 stitches, 2DC, repeat from * around, join to first DC (63)

Change to green

Round 7: Chain 2, DC in next 22 stitches, *spike stitch, DC in next 2 stitches, spike stitch in next 2 stitches, DC in next 2 stitches, repeat from * 2 more times, DC into remaining stitches, join to first DC

Round 8-13: Chain 2, DC in each stitch around, join to first DC

Fasten off and weave in tail

Ear flaps for 6-12 months

Fold the hat in half twice to find the middle of each side for the ear flaps. Each ear flap is worked as follows:

Chain 2, HDC in same space and into next 7 stitches, turn

Chain 2, HDC2tog, HDC in next 4 stitches, HDC2tog, turn

Chain 2, HDC2tog, HDC in next 2 stitches, HDC2tog, turn

Chain 2, HDC2tog, HCD2tog, turn

Chain 2, HDC2tog, fasten off

Ear flaps for toddler, child, and adult

Fold the hat in half twice to find the middle of each side for the ear flaps. Each ear flap is worked as follows:

Attach green yarn, Chain 2, HDC in same space and next 9 stitches, turn

Chain 2, HDC2tog, HDC in next 6 stitches, HDC2tog, turn

Chain 2, HDC2tog, HDC in next 4 stitches, HDC2tog, turn

Chain 2, HDC2tog, HDC in next 2 stitches, HDC2tog, turn

Chain 2, HDC2tog, HCD2tog, turn

Chain 2, HDC2tog, fasten off

Eyes

Small eye

Starting with Black

Magic ring, Chain 1, 10 SC in magic ring, join to first SC

Change to white

Chain 1, 2SC in each stitch around, join to first SC

Fasten off and leave tail for sewing onto hat

Large eye

Starting with Black

Magic ring, Chain 1, 10 SC in magic ring, join to first SC

Change to white

Chain 1, 2DC in each stitch around, join to first SC

Fasten off and leave tail for sewing onto hat

Eye stitch

Using black yarn and tapestry needle, sew ‘stitches’ diagonally to the left of the small eye

Bolts - Make 2 - stuff poly with poly-fil as you go

Using gray

Magic ring, Chain 1, 10 SC into the ring, join to first SC

Chain 1, *2SC, SC, repeat from * around, join to first SC

Chain 1, SC into back loops only, join to first SC

Chain 1, *SC, SC2tog, repeat from * around, join to first SC

Start stuffing with polyfil

Chain 1, SC2tog around, join to first SC

Chain 1, SC into each stitch around, join to first SC

Fasten off and leave tail to sew onto side of hat

Finish stuffing bolt, use end of crochet hook if necessary

Tassels

Cut 24” piece strands of yarn: 3 in green, 3 in white, 3 in black 

Fold in half and knot onto the ends of earflap

Braid together and knot the ends.

Repeat on other earflap

Enjoy your hats! 

Crochet Infinity Scarf using One Caron Sprinkle Cake

Who loves crochet infinity scarves? *raises hand* *waves it in the air* *points to herself*
Infinity scarves are so great to wear AND so easy to make! They take up less yarn than a traditional scarf and usually less time as well when using comfy, cozy, chunky yarn.

I've been loving on the new Caron cakes line and I made this quick infinity scarf with the new Caron Sprinkle Cake. I also made a traditional scarf with a Caron Tea Cake that you can find the free pattern for here.

The stitch I used for this infinity scarf is called a rope stitch that I found in my stitch dictionary (linked below under Amazon Picks). I recently bought this crochet book and I love it! I always shied away from crochet books because I thought - I know how to crochet, I don't need a book. Boy, was I wrong. This stitch dictionary is amazing for learning new stitches! And it's organized very well and even gives details about stitches. (Example, it will tell you what kind of yarn the stitch would work best in and if it 'drapes' well which is good to know when making garments)

The rope stitch that I chose was said to give excellent drape and that is one of the reasons I chose it on top of it being a bit more of an airy stitch - perfect for the changing of season. ;)

DOWNLOAD THE FREE PDF PATTERN HERE

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CLICK HERE

WEEK 1 - Christmas Granny Afghan CAL - Santa Claus Applique Free Crochet Pattern

Hi everyone - Welcome to week 1!

 I know a lot of you have been very eager to start this CAL, and I have been too! This is my first ever CAL that I will be hosting! Please be patient with me if there are any issues - don't hesitate to contact me with questions!

This week we will be working up 8 granny squares and the Santa Claus applique.
All the patterns and video tutorials that you will need are below.

If you would like to purchase the complete afghan pattern, you may do so here on Ravelry.

If you need to go back to the main page of the CAL - click here.

If you need to take another look at the materials list - click here.


Week One
Make 4 granny squares in Linen
Make 4 granny squares in Scarlet
Make 4 Santa Claus applqiues
Sew appliques onto Linen granny squares
Weave in all ends!

Find the Granny Square Pattern HERE.

Materials
Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice worsted weight in:
Scarlet
White
Beige
6mm safety eyes
G hook
Tapestry needle
Scissors

Notes:

Chain 2/Chain 1 is not counted as a stitch in the beginning rounds/rows

Bobble stitch is worked as follows: *Yarn over, insert hook in stitch, pull up a loop, YO, pull through two loops, repeat from * 2 more times in same space until you have 4 loops on the hook. Yarn over, pull through all 4 loops, chain one to secure bobble

SC2tog - single crochet 2 together AKA decrease is worked as follows: insert hook into stitch, pull up a loop, insert hook into next stitch, pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through all loops

Santa Claus hat is bent down before sewn onto granny square to give the hat a slouching look


Pattern

Head - Beige & White

Starting with Beige
Round 1: Magic ring, Chain 2, 10 HDC, join to first HDC
Round 2: Chain 2, 2HDC in each stitch around, join to first HDC
Round 3: Chain 2, *2HDC, HDC, repeat from * 4 more times
Continued from Round 3: Change to white, bobble stitch into remaining stitches, join to first HDC, fasten off and leave tail for sewing onto granny square

Hat - White & Scarlet

Starting with white
Row 1: Chain 13, SC into second chain from hook and across, fasten off
Attach Scarlet into 3rd stitch from the right
Row 2: Chain 1, SC into next 8 stitches, turn
Row 3: Chain 1, SC across 8 stitches, turn
Row 4: Chain 1, SC2tog, SC in next 4 stitches, SC2tog, turn
Row 5: Chain 1, SC2tog, SC in next 2 stitches, SC2tog, turn
Row 6: Chain 1, SC across in next 4 stitches, turn
Row 7: Chain 1, SC2tog, SC2tog, turn
Row 8: Chain 1, SC across in next 2 stitches, turn
Row 9: Chain 1, SC2tog, turn
Row 10: Change to white
Row 11: Chain 2, bobble stitch, fasten off
Sew hat onto head

Nose -  Scarlet

Magic ring, SC into ring 3 times, fasten off
Sew onto face

Eyes

Attach safety eyes or create a french knot with black yarn and a tapestry needle.

If you are using the french knot technique for the eyes, here is a good video tutorial:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5BHO_Cnvzs

Video Tutorial

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Or you may view the video tutorial here on YouTube.

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Solid Granny Square - Christmas Granny Afghan CAL

This is the granny square we will be using for the Christmas Granny Afghan. It's a basic solid granny square with a circle in the middle. Written pattern with photos and video tutorial is below.

Go back to main page of CAL here.

Notes:

Square measures 7in x 7in.

Chain 2 in beginning of rounds do not count as a stitch

When counting edges, do not count that Chain 2 in the beginning of the round - it does not count as a stitch.

Materials:

worsted weight yarn

I/5.25mm hook

Round 1: Magic ring, Chain 2, 10DC into magic ring, join to first DC

Round 2: Chain 2, 2DC into each stitch around, join to first DC

Round 3: Chain 2, *DC, HDC into next 2 stitches, DC, [2DC, Chain 2, 2DC] all in one stitch, repeat from * , join to first DC

Round 4: Chain 2, *DC until you get to the Chain 2 space from previous row, [2DC, Chain 2, 2DC] all in chain 2 space, repeat from * , DC in next 2 spaces until you get to the beginning of the round, join to first DC

Round 5: Chain 2, *DC until you get to the Chain 2 space from previous row, [2DC, Chain 2, 2DC] all in chain 2 space, repeat from * , DC in next 4 spaces until you get to the beginning of the round, join to first DC

Round 6: Chain 2, *DC until you get to the Chain 2 space from previous row, [2DC, Chain 2, 2DC] all in chain 2 space, repeat from * , DC in next 6 spaces until you get to the beginning of the round, join to first DC, fasten off and weave in all ends


I have also provided some photos of some of the steps to making this granny square to help with stitch counts: (click individual photos for larger view)

  

  

   

    

  

  

Video Tutorial

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Or you may view the video tutorial here on YouTube.

A question you may have is - to block or not to block the squares? I would say it's a personal preference. I personally do not block my squares and once I join them together, they usually all lay together well. If anything, I may block the border once the afghan is all finished.

Why would you want to block your squares? People will block their squares in order to keep the shape of the square before they join them together. It may also allow your squares to be all the same size if you have different tensions throughout making your squares. 

If you'd like to block your squares, there are many tutorials out there to do so. My suggestion would be to get something similar to a blocking mat (which is very similar to a child's foam puzzle pieces play may if you're familiar or a knee pad used for gardening) and use 4 thin dowels to pierce into the foam - place them so the distance between them is the size of what the square should be. You can them slide the granny squares onto the dowels to keep their shape.