2020 Crochet Cancer Challenge – All October Long

Post author:SweetPotato3
Reading time:10 mins read

October marks the month of Cancer Awareness and I am so excited to host another year of the Crochet Cancer Challenge. This has been an annual event that began in 2014, seven years later it has grown due to the generosity of the crochet community.

Our crochet community does so much for others by making handmade items and in this event those said items are all donated. Donations go to cancer patients or cancer centers in our own communities. We have this amazing opportunity to make a difference one hat at a time.

A Quick Overview of the Cancer Challenge

During the month of October a different crochet pattern designer will be featured. The designers has personally designed a hat in honor of someone they know, or to help bring awareness to a specific type of cancer. They will offer their design for FREE for 1 day only. If you download their pattern, you are taking a pledge to make a minimum of one hat from that pattern to donate.

The Crochet Cancer Challenge has become so personal to so many of you and to so many of us designers. I appreciate all the time and efforts everyone puts into this event. I hope to spread the word this year, so I am asking that you share photos of your finished hats on social media or links to the challenge AND always use the #CrochetCancerChallenge . The more people see our challenge, the more it will grow and that means the more people we can touch in a positive way. We can all use a little more positivity in our lives in 2020.

Daily Crochet Cancer Challenge Features

Each Day I will post a new designers hat link. You can then go to their site to read about who or what cancer they designed the hat for. Once again, each design will be free for 24 hours, but you must use code “CancerChallenge” to get the pattern free. Look for this button in their blog post:

Do you have more questions about the Crochet Cancer Challenge? Scroll to the bottom of this post for more informative links.

2020 Final Pledge Count

Let’s just face it, 2020 has been a crazy year. Some of us are stuck at home with time on our hands. Some are stuck at home juggling working with our kids around and/or helping them with online school. We are all in our own world of craziness.

Plus, some Cancer Centers were not taking donations due to COVID. So, I didn’t have any idea how our pledges would be. I am very excited to say that, although it wasn’t our biggest year, it was pretty darn close!

October 2020Features

Below you can see all the gorgeous designs that were featured in this years Crochet Cancer Challenge. The code to get them for free has expired. However, you can still grab them from the links and support the designers. I hope you enjoyed the challenge and making each hat to give away and brighten someone’s day. I also hope you keep adding to that stash pile of yarn so you are for the 2021 challenge next year.

Stitch in Progress

“My design is in support of those dealing with Prostate Cancer. My family has been affected by a prostate cancer diagnosis in the last year and I wanted to lend my support to all those men affected and the women who love and support them.”

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find pattern HERE

Snappy Tots

The Full of Hope Beanie is sure to be a loved design. I love how the variegated yarn pops through in the hat!

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find pattern HERE

Straight Hooked

Today I am so honored to have Malena, designer behind Straight Hooked featured. Malena wanted to offer 2 designs today that are very personal to her. Make sure you scroll through her blog post and grab BOTH designs:

“I designed the Brain Freeze Beanie in honor of my Daddy, who was taken home to Jesus with the not-so-friendly assistance of Brain Cancer. My dad had a heck of a sweet tooth, and would never say “no” to a big bowl of ice cream, so I named his hat “Brain Freeze”.

“I released the Ice Cap Beanie in honor of my momma who was always cold and battled Ovarian Cancer for the last decade of her life. “

Find Straight Hooked on Social Media:

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Both Patterns HERE

Sweet Potato Crochet Creations

“My best online crochet lady friend and soul sister, Krista, was diagnosed with breast cancer in February… You guys, this woman is the strongest person I know.”

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern HERE

Woodland Stitchcraft

“My hat color, black, is the ribbon color for Melanoma or skin cancer. Living in a state like California where the sun is shining quite often and outdoor activity is a part of life in our state I felt this was a good fit for me.“

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern HERE

Bliss This

This beanie design is dedicated to Edie, Gloria, Amparo, and Magui! This is also dedicated to my unstoppable dad, Rod, who remains cancer free, 15 years after his own battle with cancer!

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern HERE

Two Brothers Blankets

Made in light blue color to represent the ribbon color for Prostate Cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, Prostate Cancer is the second most common cancer among men, behind skin cancer.

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern HERE

Fosbas Designs

“No one deserves to go through the agony of battling Cancer, not the patients nor the relatives and loved ones. In my profession, I have seen so many people of all age groups go through this.“

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern HERE

Crochet by Trista

Trista designed the Pearl Beanie because she’s, “known a few people who have battled breast cancer. Some are currently in remission and almost back to normal and some have lost their battle.”

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern HERE

Through the Loop Yarn

The Rocksteady Beanie was designed and incorporates the color Lime to represent Lymphoma. This is very near and dear to her heart, please read her blog post about why.

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern HERE

Ambassador Crochet

The Warrior Ribbon Hat is a wonderful design for the challenge. Make this hat in any color to help spread awareness for what cancer is close to your heart.

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern HERE

Pink Crochet Hook

Message from Pink Crochet, “My great uncle Jack who was a very big part of my upbringing, passed away June 10th from leukemia. He had a sailboat he named after me that launched in ’84. Her name was “Lady Erin” so that is where the name of this awesome anchor hat came from. Thank you for downloading to pledge and as always happy crocheting Love Pinkcrochethook”

Find Pattern HERE

Crochetverse

The Double Quick Beanie was designed in support of is Ewing’s Sarcoma and to honor a beautiful friend. Stephanie wanted to bring as much love, light, and prayer for her and her family this year through her hat design.

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern HERE

Sunflower Cottage Crochet

Helen designed the Robin’s Beanie with Sara’s father in mind, it is personal and is designed to help bring awareness to Colon Cancer. Find Sunflower Cottage on social media below:

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern Here

Waves of Hope Hat Crochet Cancer Challenge

Sweet Potato 3

I was honored to take an extra day to help out a fellow designer who has a family member going through Cancer-this hat is in honor of her/family!

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern Here

Sweet Potato 3

I designed the Dotty’s Dream hat this year to honor my daughters dance teacher, Dotty who was diagnosed with Breast Cancer.

Find Sweet Potato 3 on Social Media:

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Dotty’s Dream Hat HERE

Darcy’s Crochet Creations

Darcy designed the Leonard’s Star hat in honor of everyone who has fought colon cancer including her Grandfather & Uncle.

Facebook / Website

Find Hat Pattern HERE

Endless Crochet Creations

Tammy designed this lovely hat in honor of her mother who lost her battel to lung cancer in 2016.

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern HERE

Wish Upon a Hook

“The Garden Path Beanie is made in this gorgeous emerald green color to bring awareness to the battle against liver cancer.“

Instagram / Facebook

Find Pattern HERE

Momma By Grace – Oct 26

“The Tyler Beanie was designed in honor of my 22-year-old sister who passed away from ovarian cancer.”

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern HERE

Nanas Crafty Home

The Marci Hat is in honor of my best friend from my childhood…The Marci Hat is a Tunisian Crochet pattern that features 2 different Tunisian Crochet stitches. Give it a try today!

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern HERE

Crochet by Courtney

For this year, I chose white to represent lung cancer. I think many of us know of a smoker or maybe smoke ourselves. For me, I have never smoked after observing my dad and maternal grandmother.

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern HERE

Briana K

I chose Goldenrod to be the main color for this hat because I chose to raise awareness for childhood cancer, with Gold being the represented color. The fair isle crochet hat pattern comes in a variety of sizes so it can be used in any color for any age.

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern HERE

Simply Hooked by Janet

The Cascade Hat design represents and is dedicated to those who have battled Esophageal cancer.

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern HERE

Canoe Mountain Designs

Audrey designed this beautiful Side Ways Shuffle hat in peach to help bring awareness to uterine cancer.

Find Canoe Mtn Designs on Facebook

Find Pattern HERE

Ned & Mimi

Sarah designed this lovely Jasmine Beanie in Gold tones to bring awareness to childhood cancer. Find Ned & Mimi on social media:

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Pattern HERE

Salty Pearl Crochet

Katie designed this gorgeous Rose Tellin Beanie in honor of Breast Cancer.

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Hat Pattern HERE

Marly Bird

The Wings of Hope Hat is our first design today, made in a rich purple.

Instagram / Facebook / Blog

Find Hat Pattern HERE

L’amas de Laine

This amazing design features the bold colors of teal, pink and purple to honor Thyroid Cancer. What a fabulous hat Sandra!

Find L’amas de laine on social media:

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Hat Pattern Here

Made with a Twist

Pam designed this lovely golden beanie called the Brave Beanie, the color is specifically picked to bring awareness to childhood cancer.

Find Made with a Twist on Social Media:

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Hat Pattern Here

Crystalized Designs

A beautiful design with rich texture, the Valda Beanie was designed by Crystalized Designs. It was designed for her Mom in a teal to bring awareness to Ovarian Cancer.

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Hat Pattern Here

Underground Crafter

Marie designed the Herringbone Slouchy Beanie in this rich purple to bring awareness to pancreatic cancer.

Find Underground Crafter on social media:

Instagram / Facebook / Website

Find Hat Pattern HERE

Find more information about the Crochet Cancer Challenge Below:

Information explaining what the Crochet Cancer Challenge is, click HERE.
What type of hat should I make? What Sizes? Where do I get the patterns? Click HERE.
Yarn Recommendations to use for the hats, click HERE.
Where should I donate my hats, click HERE.
A fun start early project you can add to your hats, click HERE.
Challenge others to join and get tags you can print for your hats, click HERE.

Week 1: Crochet Cancer Challenge

Post author:SweetPotato3
Reading time:5 mins read

Thank you so much for checking back in to see the designs that have been part of the Crochet Cancer Challenge Week 1. We are off to an amazing start but it is no surprise when you see how great the designs have been.

For the challenge week 1 hat designs, you have through Sunday October 6, 2019 to PLEDGE to get your patterns for FREE. To pledge just download the pattern, make a hat and donate that hat to a cancer patient or cancer center nearby.

Everyone, of the designers below, have taken the time to design, photograph, test and publish their designs. This is a big commitment and is extremely generous of them. I ask that you take a few minutes of your day and send them a quick “thank you” note. Trust me, it will make their day!

Day 1 of the Challenge: Sweet Potato 3

The Emerald Stone Hat by Sweet Potato 3. Find Sweet Potato 3 by clicking on the following links:

Website / Instagram / Facebook Page / Facebook Group

Find Emerald Stone Hat post and link to pattern by clicking HERE (code “cc2019” good through 10/31/19). The Emerald Stone hat is featuring the color for Liver Cancer. Christine’s Uncle passed away 6 years ago from Liver Cancer and this hat is designed in honor of him.

Sincerely Pam is sponsoring Day 2:

The Fighter/Survivor Graph Beanie by Sincerely Pam. Find Sincerely Pam by clicking on the following links:

Website / Instagram / Facebook page

Find the Fighter/Survivor Graph Beanie post and link to pattern by clicking HERE (code “cc2019” good through 10/6/19). A short note about the design:

In honor of my Dad’s diagnosis, battle, and recovery, I have designed these hats for him. The awareness ribbon color for stomach and esophageal cancer is periwinkle.
http://www.sincerelypam.com/fighter-survivor-graph-beanies-cancer-challenge-2019/

Day 3 is featuring a hat by Muki Crafts:

The Frisky Hat by Muki Crafts. Find Muki Crafts by clicking on the following links:

Website / Instagram / Facebook page

Find the Frisky Hat pattern by clicking HERE (code “cc2019” only good through 10/6/2019). Maarja wanted to focus on Leukemia because most of her crochet designs are centered around children. The awareness color for Leukemia is orange.

Challenge Day 4 is Crystalized Designs

The Nancy Beanie by Crystalized Designs. You can find Crystalized Designs by clicking on the following links:

Website / Instagram / Facebook Page

Find the Nancy Beanie pattern by clicking HERE (code “cc2019” good through 10/6/2019). The Nancy Beanie was designed in honor of Crystal’s Mom who fought Stomach Cancer, so her design features the color peach. Reach more about her story and inspiration on her blog HERE.

Day 5 of the Challenge: Leesa’s Knotty Corner

The War of the Roses Hat by Leesa’s Knotty Corner. You can find Leesa’s Knotty Corner below:

Facebook Page / Instagram

Find the War of Roses Hat HERE. Leesa has graciously offered her design for FREE during the entire month of October (use same code of “CC2019”-good through 10/20/2019). Leesa is a new designer to the Crochet Cancer Challenge and here is a note from her:

I chose testicular cancer because my son has it. He has been fighting it since January 2010. He is back to receiving treatment after being in remission for a couple of years. So, for me this hits very close to home.
I also lost a grandpa to lung cancer, a grandpa to brain cancer, a grandma to breast cancer, and an Uncle to bone cancer. Cancer is all around us, not one of us has not had it personally touch our lives. Even I have had my own battle with cervical cancer, and later pre-cancerous cells in my uterus, ovaries, and cervix that resulted in a radical hysterectomy…but no other treatment, thankfully.
Leesa Nixon, Leesa’s Knotty Corner

And the Grand Finale this week at day 6 is, Creations by Courtney

The Whirlwind Hat by Creations by Courtney. You can find Creations by Courtney below:

Website / Instagram / Faceboook Page

Find the Whirlwind Hat HERE (code “cc2019” is good through 10/12/2019): Courtney says

Lavender was chosen for this hat to represent all forms of cancer as it has or will impact every person.
https://creationsbycourtney.com/product/whirlwind-hat/

Keep Checking Back

All these beautiful designs are in the challenge week 1. But wait, we have all of October left for the Crochet Cancer Challenge, check back each day for updates on the hats that are released and designers participating.

We would love to see the hats you make from the first weeks challenge. Please post away on all your social media outlets. Use #CrochetCancerChallenge to help us see how far our challenge is reaching.

Stay up to date on the rest of the month by following the Challenge on Sweet Potato 3’s social media outlets {linked above/at top of post} or by signing up with the newsletter that will be sent out every few days.

Find more information about the Crochet Cancer Challenge Below:

Information explaining what the Crochet Cancer Challenge is, click HERE.
What type of hat should I make? What Sizes? Where do I get the patterns? Click HERE.
Yarn Recommendations to use for the hats, click HERE.
Where should I donate my hats, click HERE.
A fun start early project you can add to your hats, click HERE.
Challenge others to join and get tags you can print for your hats, click HERE.

2018 Crochet Cancer Challenge Final Pledges

Post author:SweetPotato3
Reading time:2 mins read

We are a week into November and the 2018 Crochet Cancer Challenge has officially wrapped up. Every year that I have organized this Challenge, I am amazed at how committed everyone is to help out. The designers always reach out to join and come up with some amazing designs. All of you crocheters, who crochet relentlessly to create hats to give.

All of this encourages me to continue every year. This was my 5th year organizing the Crochet Cancer Challenge and I was blown away with our final pledge numbers.

Just to let you know how amazing our final pledge count is, this surpassed last year by over 10,000! We could not have done this without each and everyone of you.

I hope you found the Crochet Cancer Challenge to be as rewarding as I did. I am already excited to organize next years to be even bigger and better. Make sure to bring those donations into your local cancer center, I took my stack in on Monday and it is always so rewarding. I like to think of my Uncle Jeff when I walk into donate, and it make me chuckle just remembering his laugh, it was one that I will never forget. I love you Uncle Jeff!

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE thank the designers.

A huge part of our success every year is how willing other crochet designers are to give a pattern in exchange for a pledge. I want them to know how much we all appreciate this. So, please, take a little time today to thank them. Write a message on their facebook page, send them an email or facebook message, or even share a photo of the hat you made from their design.

Crochet Cancer Challenge – FINAL CALL

Post author:SweetPotato3
Reading time:2 mins read

Today is the official last day of the 2019 Crochet Cancer Challenge! So, don’t put it off, grab those patterns (in exchange for your pledges of course) and start crocheting.

Autumn Breeze Beanie Pattern by Sweet Potato 3

Chill Beanie Pattern by Sincerely Pam

Bond Street Beanie Pattern by Pattern Paradise

Over the Rainbow Turban Pattern by CPD designs

Riley Winter Hat Pattern by Endless Crochet Creations

Cables N Such Beanie Pattern by Pink Crochet Hook

Cranberry Trails Hat Pattern by Canoe Mountain Designs

Terrain Kitty Hat Pattern by Poise & Envy

Use Code: Cancer18

The above code will be good on all the patterns listed above. BUT, only through the end of the week, Sunday November 4, 2018 and will allow you to get the pattern for FREE, but remember….

A Download = A Pledge

This is a very important part of the Crochet Cancer Challenge. If you download any of the patterns during this month and you use the code to receive it for FREE you are PLEDGING to donate a minimum of 1 hat to a Cancer Center/Patient.

Add Labels to your hats

click HERE to get an printable sheet that has 8 of these tags on it.

Week 4: Cancer Challenge – Last Chance

Post author:SweetPotato3
Reading time:3 mins read

We are wrapping up our 4th week of the Crochet Cancer Challenge. Only 3 days left! You have all been so amazing. Not just in your pledges, but in your encouraging posts to one another, in your heartfelt comments and the gratitude you have shown throughout the challenge. I am blessed to be able to work on this challenge with each and everyone of you. Thank you!

If you are just now joining, I am so excited to have you jump on board, if you want to read a little more about what the challenge is follow this link: HERE.

Below I will showcase each days design, just click on the image if you missed one and use the same code that was featured all week (or that is posted later in this blog post).

Autumn Breeze Beanie Pattern by Sweet Potato 3

Cassia Hat Pattern by KMT Creations

Cambridge Shells Hat Pattern by Krissy’s Over the Mountain Crochet

Auntie Em Twister Hat & Ebook by Underground Crafter

Lennox Hat Pattern by Sweet Potato Crochet Creations

KJ Hat Pattern by Two Brothers Blankets

Loop the Loop Cowl Pattern by Crafting Friends Designs

Use Code: Cancer18

The above code will be good on all the patterns listed above. BUT, only through the end of today, Sunday October 28, 2018 and will allow you to get the pattern for FREE, but remember….

A Download = A Pledge

This is a very important part of the Crochet Cancer Challenge. If you download any of the patterns during this month and you use the code to receive it for FREE you are PLEDGING to donate a minimum of 1 hat to a Cancer Center/Patient.

Add Labels to your hats

click HERE to get an printable sheet that has 8 of these tags on it.

Week 2: Cancer Challenge Last Chance

Post author:SweetPotato3
Reading time:2 mins read

We are wrapping up the first week of the 2018 Crochet Cancer Challenge. Thank you all so much for all you have done so far. Today I want to give you all one last chance to grab any of the patterns you may have missed this week. If you are just now joining, I am so excited to have you jump on board, if you want to read a little more about what the challenge is follow this link: HERE.

Below I will showcase each days design, just click on the image if you missed one and use the same code that was featured all week (or that is posted later in this blog post).

Autumn Breeze Beanie Pattern by Sweet Potato 3

Logan Hat Pattern by Accessorize This Designs

Linda’s Easy Chemo Cap Pattern by Salty Pearl Crochet

ACCROchet Hat Pattern by ACCROchet

Columns & Fans Hat Pattern by Sunshine Charlotte Designs

Hope Lives Chemo Cap Pattern by Ambassador Crochet

Hope Endures Prayer Shawl Pattern by Ambassador Crochet

Use Code: Cancer18

The above code will be good on all the patterns listed above. BUT, only through the end of today, Sunday October 14, 2018 and will allow you to get the pattern for FREE, but remember….

A Download = A Pledge

This is a very important part of the Crochet Cancer Challenge. If you download any of the patterns during this month and you use the code to receive it for FREE you are PLEDGING to donate a minimum of 1 hat to a Cancer Center/Patient.

Add Labels to your hats

click HERE to get an printable sheet that has 8 of these tags on it.

Day 1: Cancer Challenge – Sweet Potato 3

Post author:SweetPotato3
Reading time:3 mins read

I am so excited today to begin the 2018 Crochet Cancer Challenge and show you my design of the Autumn Breeze Crochet hat. Each October I am humbled by all your energy and excitement you put into helping make hats for those in need.

If this is the first you have heard about it, please click the following link for more info: HERE.

Day 1: Autumn Breeze Hat Pattern by Sweet Potato 3

Before I start in on the hat for today, I want to make sure to share a little love for the designer. It is always worthwhile to thank the designer for offering her pattern to all of us:

Facebook for Sweet Potato 3: HERE

Sweet Potato 3 Blog: HERE

Ravelry Shop for Sweet Potato 3: HERE

Etsy Shop for Sweet Potato 3: HERE

Todays pattern was designed by myself and offered through my shop: Sweet Potato 3. I designed the Autumn Breeze Beanie specifically for this challenge because you can make it fairly quick and it can have many different looks just by alternating the yarn colors differently.

The Autumn Breeze Beanie is made in a soft worsted weight yarn (Lion Brand Heartland) and comes in adult sizes of: Small, Medium, Large/XL.

Use Code: Cancer18

This code will be good on the Autumn Breeze Beanie through October 31, 2018 and will allow you to get the pattern for FREE, but remember….

A Download = A Pledge

This is a very important part of the Crochet Cancer Challenge. If you download any of the patterns during this month and you use the code to receive it for FREE you are PLEDGING to donate a minimum of 1 hat to a Cancer Center/Patient.

Add Labels to your hats

click HERE to get an printable sheet that has 8 of these tags on it.

Challenge Others to join the Crochet Cancer Challenge

Post author:SweetPotato3
Reading time:4 mins read

The Cancer Challenge is such a fun way to share our craft, of Crochet, with others who may be struggling through a difficult time in their lives. Over the last week you have seen many posts on what the Challenge is, how to get the patterns, what yarn to use and who to donate too. This post will cover hopefully any other last minute information, especially on how to pledge to make donations.

What is my goal?

My goal is to simply help others and to make it easy for you to do the same. I started this challenge on a whim 7 years ago when I lost my uncle to cancer. Each year the challenge has grown, last year reaching just over 60,000 hats pledged. I am astounded with the success each year and am hoping to match and beat that number this year. So grab a friend and crochet away!

How do I pledge?

To pledge to make a hat simply download the pattern. During the month of the challenge there free patterns for hats posted, for each pattern you download you are pledging to make a minimum of 1 hat (12 pattern downloads = your pledge to make a minimum of 12 hats to donate).

I know many of you from the past years has pledged to make each hat (nearly 30) to donate. Some of you only have the time to make one. Whatever you do, we are just happy you are joining us.

Stay tuned and Share your Work & Get Others to Join

I will be posting the daily hats on Instagram, Facebook and in my Facebook Group. Please follow each of these to stay up to date.

AND I ask that you share your work by using the Hashtag #CrochetCancerChallenge in your posts! Call out your friends to join, it not only helps us pledge more hats, but makes it more fun and personal.

Follow on @SweetPotato3Patterns on Instagram

Follow on @SweetPotato3Patterns on Facebook

Join the SP3 Crochet & Conversations fb group

Who are you Honoring?

Add a comment to this blog post to let everyone know who you are making hats in honor of.

Challenge Others

Do you know other crafters, crocheters or knitters?

Tag them in one of the facebook posts about the challenge, say “I challenge you to join!”

Add TAGS to your Donation

If you would like to add tags to your hats, we are providing a printable form, each sheet will include 8 tags. I recommend printing them on cardstock to give them a sturdier touch. Simply print the sheet, cut out the tags and then use a small hole punch to make a spot to tie the tag onto the hat. Each tag allows a space for you to specify the hat size and to include your name as the maker and the donater.

The tags add a very nice, personal and handmade touch. You can use the back side of the tag for any extra instructions, information or a simple prayer/saying for the recipient.

To download your copy of the printable tags, just click HERE .

Cancer Awareness Ribbon Pattern

Post author:SweetPotato3
Reading time:2 mins read

I know from hosting the last 5 years of the Cancer Challenge that there are many of you that cannot wait for October 1st to begin. So, I have a little starter project just for you.

The Cancer Awareness Ribbon applique is a great add on to hats, scarves, blankets or whatever you are making. Especially if you are donating to a specific Cancer Center (breast cancer, children’s cancer, etc) because you can make it in the corresponding color.

Get Started Early with the Cancer Awareness Ribbon

A couple years ago I had someone share a photo of a hat they had made for a donation. The hat featured a Cancer Awareness Ribbon. This was such a thoughtful touch to add to a donated hat so I wanted to share it with you. The best part was that the pattern by CrochetBug is free on their blog, you can find the link HERE.

Below is an image that shows the awareness color for some of the more common cancers.

So, I encourage you to go grab some scrap yarn and your trusty crochet hook. Sit down in front of your favorite show or pod cast and whip us a handful of these awareness ribbons.

Stay tuned and Share your Work

I will be posting the daily hats on Instagram, Facebook and in my Facebook Group. Please follow each of these to stay up to date.

AND I ask that you share your work by using the Hashtag #CrochetCancerChallenge in your posts! Call out your friends to join, it not only helps us pledge more hats, but makes it more fun and personal.

Follow on @SweetPotato3Patterns on Instagram

Follow on @SweetPotato3Patterns on Facebook

Join the SP3 Crochet & Conversations fb group

Information Links for the Cancer Challenge

If you are inspired and want to participate but may have missed some of the blog posts, below is a quick reference to the posts with more information:

Cancer Challenge Introduction, what is it, click HERE.
What type of hat should I make, what sizes and where should I get the patterns, click HERE.
What type of yarn is recommended for the hats, click HERE.
Where should I donate my hats, click HERE.
A fun “start early” project you can add to your hats, click HERE.
Challenge others to join and more fun information, click HERE

Where to Donate Hats for the Cancer Challenge

Post author:SweetPotato3
Reading time:3 mins read

You have decided to follow the Crochet Cancer Challenge and donate some hats, yay! I am so excited to have you join us. The next question you may have is… where can I donate the hats?

Where to donate my crochet hats?

I recommend checking your local Cancer Centers. This can be as simple as doing a google search. Once you find a center make sure to call them and ask if they accept donations and if they have specific guidelines you need to follow.

Where to Donate - call your local office

When you make that call, it may be a good idea to ask if they have a shortage of anything specific. Some examples may be X-large hats, small hats for teens, or hats for men, you just never know what their current needs might be.

I cannot find anywhere local, now what?

There may be some of you who live in a small community or who are unable to get out and deliver your donations. There are still some options for you. If you know someone else doing the challenge, they may be willing to take your donation in with theirs. You can also ship your donation to a cancer center. I would start local, then maybe go to your state, then region.

There are also numerous organizations who are always looking for donations and have lots of other information on their sites. A few of them are (click image for site link):

I have also found a couple amazing facebook groups that are a great resource, please check them out (click on the images for direct links):

Stay tuned and Share your Work

I will be posting the daily hats on Instagram, Facebook and in my Facebook Group. Please follow each of these to stay up to date.

AND I ask that you share your work by using the Hashtag #CrochetCancerChallenge in your posts! Call out your friends to join, it not only helps us pledge more hats, but makes it more fun and personal.

Follow on @SweetPotato3Patterns on Instagram

Follow on @SweetPotato3Patterns on Facebook

Join the SP3 Crochet & Conversations fb group

Information Links for the Cancer Challenge

Cancer Challenge Introduction, what is it, click HERE.
What type of hat should I make, what sizes and where should I get the patterns, click HERE
What type of yarn is recommended for the hats, click HERE
Where should I donate my hats, click HERE
A fun “start early” project you can add to your hats, click HERE
Challenge others to join and more fun information, click HE R E

Yarn Recommendations for the Crochet Cancer Challenge

Post author:SweetPotato3
Reading time:3 mins read

With the Crochet Cancer Challenge fast approaching, you may be going through your yarn stash and wondering which yarns you should use. Today’s post will go over some yarn recommendations for when you crochet the hats to donate to cancer patients.

Yarn Recommendations

It is important to use yarns that are soft and breathable when making hats for cancer patients. Many will recommend for you to use a cotton blend. However, a 100% cotton yarn is not very soft, so make sure it is a blend.

The yarn should wash well and hold up with multiple uses (hold its shape). Below I have made a list of yarn recommendations including brands and types of yarn that have been loved by recipients from past years. Many of these yarns have also been recommended by Cancer Centers. Many of these yarns can be found at Michaels, JoAnn’s, Hobby Lobby and other Craft Stores.

Baby Bee (nearly the entire line is highly recommended) found at Hobby Lobby
I Love this Cotton found at Hobby Lobby
Comfy Worsted Cotton Blend from Knit Picks (online)
Shine Worsted Cotton Blend from Knit Picks (online)
Caron Simply Soft
Patons Bamboo Baby / Be Mine
Bernat Giggles / Li’l Tots / Softee Baby (regular or cotton) / Satin
Lion Brand Heartland / Landscapes / Jeans / Feels Like Butta / Homespun
Red Heart Soft (not Super Saver) / Love / Boutique Unforgettable / Buttercup
Loops & Threads Charisma / Soft & Shiny
Premier Deborah Norville Everyday Soft Worsted / Everyday Baby / Cotton Soft Silk
Main Street Yarns Shiny + Soft
Sprightly Yarn Line from BluPrint

Keep in mind that yarns that contain wool are often itchy and not recommended for Cancer hats.

The list above is not exclusive, there are many other brands/lines of yarn that will work. Just check your label and when in doubt, inquire with the center you will be donating at and see if they have specific recommendations.

Yarn Weights & Gauge Check

Remember to always follow the yarn weight recommended in the pattern. The weight of the yarn will affect the size of the hat along with your gauge. Always check your gauge prior to starting your hat. If your gauge swatch is too small, go up a hook size until it matches the gauge. If your gauge swatch is too large, go down a hook size until your swatch matches the stated gauge.

Stay tuned and Share your Work

I will be posting the daily hats on Instagram, Facebook and in my Facebook Group. Please follow each of these to stay up to date.

AND I ask that you share your work by using the Hashtag #CrochetCancerChallenge in your posts! Call out your friends to join, it not only helps us pledge more hats, but makes it more fun and personal.

Follow on @SweetPotato3Patterns on Instagram

Follow on @SweetPotato3Patterns on Facebook

Join the SP3 Crochet & Conversations fb group

Informational Links for the Cancer Challenge:

Information explaining what the Crochet Cancer Challenge is, click HERE.
What type of hat should I make? What Sizes? Where do I get the patterns? Click HERE.
Yarn Recommendations to use for the hats, click HERE.
Where should I donate my hats, click HERE.
A fun start early project you can add to your hats, click HERE.
Challenge others to join and get tags you can print for your hats, click HERE.

Hat Patterns for the Crochet Cancer Challenge

Post author:SweetPotato3
Reading time:2 mins read

Earlier this week the Cancer Challenge was announce. Now for the fun part, how to get your free hat patterns to make and donation! Each year I team up with so many amazing designers who are all willing to give you patterns to use for free, for a limited time. I am always amazed at their willingness to help out and donate their design talent to help make the Cancer Challenge a success!

What size of hat should I make?

Unfortunately people of all ages are diagnosed with cancer. So, all hat sizes are welcome and needed. However, teen and adult hats are the most requested because they will fit more of the ages (there are more people 16-100 than youth and infants).

New Hat Design All Month Long

This is the FUN part! During the month of October, crochet designers offer a FREE Hat pattern in exchange for your pledge to donate a hat to a cancer patient/center.

If you download a pattern you are pledging to make a minimum of 1 hat from that pattern for the challenge. If you download the pattern, please take a minute to visit the pattern designers Facebook page, Instagram Account or Website and tell them thank you for their generosity. Then we ask that you share your completed hat and use #CrochetCancerChallenge so we can all see it and to help it become trending!

Don’t miss Anything

You can follow the challenge daily on my social media venues, find them in the links below:

Follow on @SweetPotato3Patterns on Instagram

Follow on @SweetPotato3Patterns on Facebook

Join the SP3 Crochet & Conversations fb group

2018 Cancer Challenge – General Information

Post author:SweetPotato3
Reading time:3 mins read

Mark Your Calendars! Grab You STASH! Because the Cancer Challenge is almost here….

October is Cancer Awareness Month, and the 2018 Cancer Challenge is gearing up for another amazing year all month long!

This year will be slightly different than in the past, but the goal is the same:

We (calling all crocheters here) pledge to crochet as many hats as possible to donate to cancer patients around the world.

Yes, this may sound like a lofty goal, but you have all proven to me in the past 4 years that we can grow each year and make a huge different in our communities. Even though hats are donated around the world, we ask that your hats are to be donated to your local center to help those closest to you.

Sound Fun and Want More Details?

Many / Most of us have been affected by cancer in some way. It is difficult to see someone go through cancer and/or chemotherapy. But with a community standing beside them it makes the battle slightly less daunting.

In honor of my Uncle Jeff, who lost his battle in September of 2014,

I am hosting the 5th annual Cancer Challenge.

How does the challenge work?

It is pretty simple.

Basically, I am asking all of you to help make hats for cancer patients and cancer survivors.

The hats can be made for someone you know, someone your friends know,s

a co-worker, teacher, neighbor, or even a complete stranger.

You can make as many hats as you can and donate them to your local cancer center.

If a cancer center is not in your area you can contact me and ship them my way. I will include them with my donation to the Summit Cancer Center in Boise, Idaho.

How long does the challenge last?

The challenge will begin October 1 and run through October 31. Each Monday through Friday a designer will offer a FREE hat pattern in exchange for your pledge to make a hat to donate. Saturdays the featured designer will offer a FREE cowl/prayer shawl/lap blanket or something like that for the same exchange. andSundays will be a week wrap up or last call. All pledges should be fulfilled by the end of 2018.

Stay tuned!

Sign up to follow by email (in the right column just under my name), this way you won’t miss any posts, updates, or patterns during the Challenge. More information will be posted over the next couple weeks. I will be highlighting the following topics and will add links as a reference once they have been posted:

What type of hat should I make, what sizes and where should I get the patterns, click HERE (after 9/19/18)
What type of yarn is recommended for the hats, click HERE (after 9/21/18)
Where should I donate my hats, click HERE (after 9/24/18)
A fun “start early” project you can add to your hats, click HERE (after 9/26/18)
Challenge others to join and more fun information, click HERE (after 9/28/18)

2017 Cancer Challenge Final Pledges

Post author:SweetPotato3
Reading time:2 mins read

The 2017 Cancer Challenge began on October 1, 2017. Each day a crochet pattern designer sponsored the challenge by providing a free pattern in exchange for your pledge to make a hat. The hats made are suppose to be donated to someone going through cancer, or to your local cancer center.

I want to personally say Thank You to everyone who participated and made pledges this year. I know that each one of these hats will be made with love and many are being given in honor of a loved one. What a great way for us crocheters to touch others lives.

If you haven’t completed your pledges, don’t fret! You have until the end of 2017 to fulfill your pledges. I am still working on mine but plan on making my donation in time for Thanksgiving.

Come back next year for the Cancer Challenge!

I will be hosting the Cancer Challenge once again in 2018. Make sure to follow Sweet Potato 3 on facebook to stay in the loop. Or, you can follow my blog by email, just sign up under my picture in the right side of this post. Thank you again for your time and efforts in this years challenge. I look forward to seeing you participate again in 2018.

Cancer Challenge Designers

I couldn’t organize this challenge without the help of so many wonderful designers. If you forgot to thank them please thank the ones you missed. The list below is all the designers who sponsored a day in the 2017 Cancer Challenge. All the images below are linked directly to the facebook page for that business.

2017 Cancer Challenge Hat Designs

Post author:SweetPotato3
Reading time:3 mins read

This is a wonderful day that I look forward to every year. The first day of the annual Cancer Challenge! A day, I get to personally honor my Uncle Jeff. But also, everyone who has been diagnosed with, who is fight for their life, who has survived or has sadly lost their fight. This is for all of you!

Cancer Challenge Hat by Sweet Potato 3

Today, Sweet Potato 3, is sponsoring a hat for the Cancer Challenge. This Floral Embrace Slouch hat pattern is avialable for FREE to anyone who is willing to pledge to make at least one hat, from this pattern, to donate to a cancer patient, cancer center, or cancer survivor.

The Floral Embrace Slouch hat pattern comes in adult sizes of small, medium, large/Xlarge. The design can also be made as a traditional beanie, one with a little slouch or a full slouchy hat. All measurements are included in the pattern. The hat works up quick and my sample is made in a soft cotton yarn from Knit Picks.

To receive this pattern for free you must enter code “2017CancerChallenge”. This pattern will be available for free through October 31, 2017. I am asking that your pledges for this Cancer Challenge be completed and donated by the end of the year, December 31, 2017.

Need More Information

For all the details on the 2017 Cancer Challenge, just click here. You can learn more about why this challenge was started, what yarn to use, where to donate and so much more.