When you join my Crochet & Conversations Facebook page, I ask a few questions. One of those is “What would you like to learn about crochet?” The top answer, new crochet stitches. The second answer, textured crochet stitches. I am excited to offer my next crochet along in a Stitch Sampler Blanket.
I am excited to share with you some of my favorite textured crochet stitches. The sampler blanket is an ideal way to learn new stitches. Each stitch includes written instructions as well as a photo and video tutorial. By completing the stitch sampler blanket you will work square by square to complete your blanket.
Stitch Sampler Crochet Along
A crochet along is a fun way to work up a pattern. The pattern is released in sections over a specified period of time. This helps encourage you to complete the pattern in steps alongside a community of other crocheters doing the same project.
I will begin releasing Stitch Sampler Blanket CAL (crochet along) on February 1, 2022. I encourage you to join today so you can gather your materials and prepare for the event. The following is my tentative schedule, but this may change slightly.
January
18th – release CAL for 50% off, no code needed, through Jan 31, 2022
20th – release yarn amounts, color options & explain options to adjust size
24th – release gauge check and explain hook sizing information
26th – release stitch information
28th – share yarn colors
February
Feb 1 – begin with Square 1
A square will be released each Mon – Fri until all 30 squares have been released.
April 1 – pattern will be released in full
Join Crochet Along
You can join the CAL through my Etsy or Ravelry Shop. When you purchase the CAL, you are giving me permission to use your email address to send out CAL updates.
The moment you finish a crochet project is one of life’s simple joys. You weave in the last end, set down your hook, yarn and scissors and lay out your masterpiece to check it out – and WAIT – it doesn’t look quite as nice as you had hoped, what went wrong? It does not have the sharp finished look that you had hoped for, so what more does it need? Perhaps, blocking your crochet piece will do the trick.
I know, I cringe when the word “block” slips into my mind too. However, this technique really isn’t as bad as it is made up to be. Blocking crochet pieces is one tip that you can do to elevate your crochet work to the next level.
What Does Blocking refer to in Crochet?
The most basic answer is that blocking getting your crochet piece wet or damp to manipulate the shape/size and allowing it to air dry. Blocking will shape your crochet project giving it a clean and professional look. An important note to remember is that blocking can increase the size of a crochet piece slightly but it cannot decrease the size.
You only need a few tools to block your crochet piece and they include: water, measuring tape, a blocking mat, blocking pins and of course your crochet piece.
Blocking Mats
The size of the project you are blocking will determine how many mats you will need. I love my blocking mats from Knitters Pride. They come in a convenient plastic tote that helps keep them clean while in storage. I also love that it keeps them together so that when I need them, I simply grab the handle and have access to multiple squares that can snap together to make a larger mat if needed. You can purchase these blocking mats by clicking HERE, or discover more crochet tools from Knitters Pride by clicking HERE.
Blocking Pins
The other tool that is a must is a set of rust proof blocking pins. There are many options of blocking pins, many of which come as individual pins. Using individual pins can make blocking a larger project take forever (which is why so many of us are not fans of blocking). Individual pins do have their place though as they are ideal for detailed edges and to help place stitches (such as picots) into place.
Knitters Pride has fabulous pins that come in a case and instead of being individual pins, they are grouped together in two different sizes. These groups allow you to quickly pin an entire section of your crochet project and speeds up the process.
Ever since I received these blocking pins the thought of blocking hasn’t bothered me at all. It is actually kind of fun because they make blocking feel like a breeze. They really are a game changer. You can purchase the Knitters Pride Blocking Pins by clicking HERE.
Blocking has a few different purposes and is not required (in my opinion) for every crochet piece. Obviously, there is no need to block amigurumi projects. Crochet hats will naturally get shaped as they are worn so blocking is not required.
I do recommend blocking some types of crochet pieces such as Home Decor items (especially ones that will lay flat like doilies, table runners, placemats, etc.), lace projects of any type, garments (helps with the drape) and sometimes blankets, but let’s look into that one a little more closely.
Some (and I stress some) blankets that are used for daily use and use a simple or basic stitch throughout do not need to be blocked. However, if you crochet a simple stitch blanket and notice the tension/gauge has changed, blocking can help and I would recommend it in this situation. Also, if you are gifting a blanket, blocking can make it really look clean and sharp so blocking would be encouraged in this situation.
If the blanket is being used more as a home decor element and not as a warm wrap to snuggle up with on the couch, then blocking is also recommended. A good example of these blankets would be my Interchangeable Wildlife Blankets shown below (pattern can be found by click HERE).
When to Block Continued
If your crochet piece has “curled” due to tightening or loosening of your stitches, as you worked through your project, blocking can help correct the roll.
If a crochet piece has a delicate stitch pattern that kind of gets lost in the drape (such as a garment or curtain) blocking can help. By blocking the piece, the stitches will be more defined and it will improve the drape and overall look of the crochet piece.
For projects that need to have an exact measurement, blocking can work wonders. For example, if you are making a blanket with squares that will later be sewn together you may find that each completed square may vary slightly due to using different yarn brands, different stitches or simple tension changes. Blocking can make these squares uniform in size.
Types of Blocking
Soak (or Wet) Blocking, is where you submerge the entire crochet piece in water. Soak the project for 30 minutes so all the fibers are thoroughly wet. Press the water out. A common way to do this is to lay the project on a towel, then roll the towel and the crochet project up together to press out the water, repeating until project is not dripping. It is very important to never twist the water out. Pin the project out on the blocking board and allow it to dry completely. This type of blocking takes the longest but has the biggest impact. So, if your crochet piece needs a lot of help, this would be recommended.
Steam (also known as Dry) Blocking, instead of getting your project completely wet you will simply use a steamer to moisten and heat the fibers in the yarn. Often this is done while the crochet project is hanging to help enhance the drape such as in a garment. It is quicker than soak blocking because it takes significantly less time to dry.
Spray Blocking, this is the most common type of blocking and is right between soak and steam blocking. This form of blocking is quicker than soaking your garment but gives a little more assistance than just steaming. I will walk you through Spray blocking below.
Spray Blocking – the project
Recently, I was working on a blanket that was crocheted using squares. Each square used a different stitch (I’ll share this pattern when it is released-you’ll love it). This was so fun to make but each square varied slightly, so blocking was essential.
Each block was designed to be 10″ X 10″ and honestly, they were all very close. But looking carefully you can see that they all vary slightly, with the top two squares being slightly smaller. With just 4 squares this may seem like a minute difference, but this blanket has 30 squares total. Having 30 squares that vary this much in size will result in some pulling or stretching as the squares are stitched together, resulting in an unprofessional or messy looking blanket.
Before you begin any blocking project, make sure your blocking mat is larger than the size you are blocking. For this example, I needed each square to measure exactly 10″, the mats are about 12″ so I was able to use just one. If my project was larger than the mat, I would simply need to snap multiple blocking mats together.
How To Spray block
Lay your crochet piece on the blocking mat. Generously spray the crochet piece with room temperature water until the entire piece is moist. Flip the crochet square over and repeat, spraying generously until the entire surface is damp.
Measure All Edges and Pin in Place
Double Check All Measurements after Pinning in Place
Using rust proof pins, measure and pin the square into place. Don’t pull the square into place. Gently press from the center of the square and nudge it to the correct size. Measure each side carefully and pin all edges. After the entire square has been pinned, remeasure for accuracy.
After the crochet piece has been blocked let it dry completely. I typically let it dry over night or longer. You do not want to take the pins out while there is still moisture in the crochet piece. After all the pieces have been blocked you can see that the edges are more aligned. The top squares are no longer smaller and this will result in a more polished blanket.
Tips to elevate your crochet
I would like to bring you more blog posts about how to elevate your crochet. This is the first post and I hope you found it helpful. I will be releasing more posts and will link them below. Until then, I would love to hear your suggestions on tips you would like to see.
How to Add Labels to Your Crochet Project – click HERE
Ideas on How to Clean Up Your Craft Room – click HERE
I am always grabbing miscellaneous items around the house as I am dashing out the door, usually finding myself with too many things to carry and fumbling to get my keys and settle into my car. I decided it was time to design the Armeria Everyday Handbag that I could just throw all those items into as I was running out the door.
The Armeria Everyday Handbag is fun to crochet plus it is a useful project that I found I was using more than I thought I would. That is until my daughter took claim of it!
“Armeria” What’s It Mean?
Trying to name a pattern is honestly one of the most difficult parts of designing. I often turn to my pattern testers and ask for suggestions. One of the first suggestions was “pebblestone” which struck a chord with me because I was thinking something like pebbles as well.
Then I received multiple comments saying the stitch reminded them of flowers. What do you think?
I also noticed that the design looks a little similar to the Tunisian Ocean Stitch. So, I wanted to factor in all three of these (pebbles, flowers and the ocean stitch) into my name. Given that I decided to name this handbag after Armeria Maritima, or Sea Thrift. It is a flower that grows in small clusters, often found in rocky areas next to the ocean.
About the design
In the beginning stages of designing a crochet pattern there are so many things to consider. The yarn you plan on using will greatly affect how the stitches will look, how the final product will hold up and the overall design appeal.
A few years ago I had the opportunity to work with Lion Brand Rewind yarn. This yarn definitely has a unique feel to it, as it is a ribbon yarn (flat) instead of the traditional round due to fibers being twisted together. The yarn also has a very soft feel to it while keeping the bulky weight.
As mentioned above, I had a chance to design multiple patterns using Lion Brand Rewind tape yarn. I designed an entire line of Home Decor patterns that you can find through the Leisure Arts Website by clicking HERE. I also hosted a Crochet Along making these adorable Woven Baskets shown below. The baskets are a FREE pattern you can still find on my blog by clicking HERE.
Armeria Everyday handbag
The handbag is an ideal size, measuring about 13″ wide by 15″ tall. You can throw a folder with paperwork in, a change of overnight clothes, or in my case all those things your kids forgot and you need to deliver to them before class starts.
Materials Needed
Crochet Hook K (6.50 mm)
Bulky Weight Yarn (#5) ~ 390 yards
Sample made using Lion Brand Rewind Yarn / color: Mahogany Rose
Measuring Tape
Scissors
Yarn Needle
Check out the Samples Made by my testers
Some of you may find it helpful and inspiring to see other samples made from the crochet pattern. I have a great group of pattern testers who work hard to help me publish quality patterns. I love showing off their work so you can see other variations whether it is different colors, different yarn or how they may have modified the pattern to work for them.
See the details of the yarn and changes in the caption of each sample photo below. I know you’ll love what they made as much as I do. One of my testers enjoyed the pattern so much she decided to make 2 more!
Test by Jillian – used Lion Brand Rewind in the color Artic Ice
Test by Sarah K – used double strands of a DK weight yarn.
Test by Sarah – used Premier Yarn Puzzle in a fun Self Striping yarn.
Test by Richelle – used Big Twist Textiles yarn.
Test done by Nicole – loved the design so much she made 3!
Test by Martha – used 2 strands of Red Heart Super Saver.
Where to get your Copy of the Armeria Everyday Handbag
Follow Sweet Potato 3 on Facebook to see more pattern releases, sales and crochet fun, just click HERE.
However, if you would enjoy a more interactive group experience, you need to join my Crochet & Conversations facebook group, click HERE. It is a ton of fun and I encourage everyone to share their projects, WIPS (works in progress) and inspirations. Plus you get exclusive deals, are the first to see new releases, give input on designs and have opportunities to win patterns. Join now and get to know others who also enjoy the art of crochet.
The brisk mountain air is always reenergizing especially in the cold winter months. Spending time outside is always a fun way to show off all the fun and unique crochet wearables including ear warmers (my personal favorite winter accessory). The Mountain Peaks Ear Warmer is designed to remind you of the majestic peaks in the mountain ranges of Idaho.
Details about the Mountain Peaks Ear Warmer Pattern
I used a beautiful worsted weight yarn by Knit Picks called Reverie. It has a lovely mohair look to it and feels so soft. The stitches worked up lovely and have a softer look with this specific yarn. Make sure you check out the other yarns my pattern testers used (later in this blog post).
The pattern includes 3 sizes from children’s up to adult, but with some measurements you could easily customize the size by adding or deleting rows.
A full photo tutorial AND video tutorial on the stitch combination are included in the pattern to help you get it just right.
Pattern Has been fully tested by other crocheters like you
All Sweet Potato 3 patterns have been tested by fellow crocheters just like you. I make sure to have all skill levels and consider all their feedback to make sure that you are confident and able to easily complete the pattern. I also love to see how a change in yarn brand and/or color changes the entire look of the pattern. Check out their work in these fun images.
Pattern test done by Trudy W
Test completed by Chauntel S using Red Heart Ombre
Pattern test completed by Radhika T
Pattern test done by Jennifer L
Where to get your copy of the Mountain Peaks Ear Warmers
If You Love This Ear Warmer Pattern You will Also Love the fingerless mitts
I designed the Mountain Peaks ear warmers to coordinate with the Mountain Peaks fingerless mitts. This was a fun design that I created a few years ago and they have been very popular. They are crocheted with a lighter DK weight yarn (the ear warmers are made with a worsted weight), but they have the same beautiful stitch work.
You can purchase this fun crochet pattern on it’s own (find more info on this design by clicking HERE), or you can grab it in an eBook that includes BOTH the fingerless mitts AND the Ear Warmers, you can find them in the links below:
Follow Sweet Potato 3 on Facebook to see more pattern releases, sales and crochet fun, just click HERE.
However, if you would enjoy a more interactive group experience, I invite you to come join my Crochet & Conversations Facebook group, click HERE. It is a ton of fun and I encourage everyone to share their projects, WIPS (works in progress) and inspirations. Plus, you get exclusive deals, are the first to see new releases, give input on designs and have opportunities to win patterns. Join now and get to know others who also enjoy the art of crochet.
Occasionally I will stumble upon a stitch that I fall in love with and find that I implement it into many of my designs. That is exactly what happened when I first discovered a stitch that I call a Knotted Half Double Crochet. This stitch works up quickly and has a relaxing cadence to it as you weave your hook through the yarn to crochet the stitch over and over.
The knotted half double crochet stitch creates a thicker, or bulky, fabric while keeping its buoyancy due to natural spacing of the stitches. The result, a flexible, warm and cozy feel that is great for so many projects. With winter setting in I decided a cowl would be a great project to make to teach this fun new stitch.
About the Knotted Half Double Crochet Stitch
I am not sure if I saw this stitch or just ‘figured’ it out playing with yarn one day. Knowing this was a stitch I was going to use for a project, I searched high and low for its name and was not able to find it.
The stitch is basically a half double crochet decrease, or a half double crochet two stitches together but without a decrease in stitches. What makes it unique is the stitch placement which results in the same number of stitches in each row (no decreases). You may know it as something else. If you do, please leave a comment below.
If you look closely at most crochet stitches that are worked in rows, the stitches are crocheted in an alternating pattern as the rows stack (the stitches are aligned between one another). However, the knotted half double crochet stitches align perfectly on top of one another. The stitch looks like little knots lined up in an orderly fashion.
Materials Need to Crochet the cowl
Crochet hook K (6.50 mm)
Crochet hook I (5.50 mm)
400 yards of a heavy Worsted Weight yarn (sample made in Bernat Premium color: lavender & aran)
Scissors
Yarn Needle
Measuring tape
Finished Size
My completed cowl is 7″ wide and 30″ long, as this is folded in half it actually has a 60″ circumference.
Gauge is usually very important when crocheting. Since this is a cowl designed to practice a stitch, the focus today is to learn the stitch and crochet evenly throughout your project. The cowl is designed as a double loop cowl (loop around neck, twist, and loop again) so it will have allowances for different gauges. This is a very rare occasion when I will say to not worry about your gauge.
Making the Cowl
Begin using the larger crochet hook K (6.50 mm). It is very important to use a larger crochet hook for your foundation row to allow for a little more natural stretch in the main section of the cowl.
Foundation Row
Crochet 140 Foundation hdc (if you are not familiar with foundation stitches check out my video tutorial HERE), join in top of beginning hdc to form a round (140)
The bottom of the first and last stitch of the foundation row will not be connected (see image below). Using the yarn tail from the beginning of your project sew the bottom of those two stitches together and weave in your end.
Switch to smaller crochet hook I (5.50 mm). Again, this is very important to keep your foundation row and main body of the cowl close to the same tension.
Begin the Knotted Half Double Crochet (Khdc) Rows
The written explanation of the KHdc:yarn over, insert hook into st, pull up a loop, yarn over, insert hook into next st, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through all loops on hook.
Begin your round with a chain 1, yarn over and insert your hook into the joining slip stitch that is behind your beginning chain, pull up a loop (3 loops on your hook).
Ch 1, yarn over and insert your hook into the joining slst (see where needle is pointing)
pull up a loop (3 loops on hook), next you will insert your hook where the needle is pointing
Yarn over, insert your hook into the 1st st of the row (2nd image above-where needle is pointing). Pull up a loop, you will know have 5 loops on your hook, yarn over and pull through all 5 loops on your hook. Your first Khdc has been completed.
yarn over, insert hook into 1st st and pull up a loop (you now have 5 loops on your hook)
pull yarn through all 5 loops on hook to complete the Khdc.
The Next Khdc
To begin your next Khdc, yarn over, insert your hook into the same stitch the last Khdc ended in and pull up a loop, you now have 3 loop son your hook.
yarn over and insert your hook into the same stitch the last stitch ended in
pull up a loop, yarn over and insert hook into next st,
For the second part of the stitch, yarn over, insert hook into next st, pull up a loop and yarn over to pull through all 5 loops on hook, you completed another Khdc.
pull up a loop, you now have 5 loops on your hook
yarn over and pull through all 5 loops on hook to complete a Khdc
Continue to repeat the Khdc around the entire row. Double check that you ended with 140 stitches for the round, not counting the beginning chain 1.
Continue Rows of Khdc
Repeat rows of Knotted Half Double Crochet until your desired height has been reached. For my cowl I completed 7 rows in lavender then continued to work another 7 rows in aran.
For your last row, switch back to the larger crochet hook K (6.50 mm). Ch 1, loosely sc in each stitch around, join in top of the 1st sc, fasten off and weave in all ends.
Video Stitch Tutorial
If you are a visual learner, like me, watch this video tutorial I created of the Knotted Half Double Crochet Stitch.
Other Designs Using the Knotted Half Double Crochet Stitch
In the introduction of this post I mentioned that I stumbled upon this stitch. I was hunting for stitch that had some specific features – one of which was perfect alignment. That was because I had a few graph designs in mind for blankets.
Traditional graph blankets are made crocheting single crochets, these take forever to make because the stitches are so small. Another option for graphs is the corner to corner technique, but these images are kind of choppy and I wanted a smoother transition and nice angles in my designs.
Music to my soul blankets
Check out how amazing the Knotted Half Double Crochet worked in the Music to My Soul blankets which I designed.
Grandioso Guitar Blanket
Piano Pizzazz Blanket
Vibrato Violin Blanket
You can find these music blankets along with many more in my shops – or simply click the links below:
Original Music To My Soul eBook (includes piano, violin, & guitar) – click HERE
Music to My Soul Expansion Pack (includes 10 instruments not in original) – click HERE
Percussion Expansion Pack Only (snare drum & full drum set) – Etsy / Ravelry
String Expansion Pack Only (harp, electric guitar & banjo) – Etsy / Ravelry
I also designed some gorgeous Nature’s Landscape Blankets. They are a published book through Annie’s publishing.
Desert Skies Blanket
Purple Mountain Majesty Blanket
Green Rivers Blanket
Blue Mountain Lakes Blanket
The Nature’s Inspiring Blanket information can be found HERE.
More Crochet Fun
Follow Sweet Potato 3 on Facebook to see more pattern releases, sales and crochet fun, just click HERE.
However, if you would enjoy a more interactive group experience, I invite you to come join my Crochet & Conversations facebook group, click HERE. It is a ton of fun and I encourage everyone to share their projects, WIPS (works in progress) and inspirations. Plus, you get exclusive deals, are the first to see new releases, give input on designs and have opportunities to win patterns. Join now and get to know others who also enjoy the art of crochet.
Can you believe we are only 72 days away from Christmas (as of October 14th anyway). It is crazy how quick these next few months will go. A couple years ago I shared a hot pad tutorial with printables that everyone loved making for gifts during the holidays. So this year I put a spin on it and am sharing a Pocket Hot Pad Crochet Pattern.
I love to have a stash of small gifts to give. Everyone always needs last minute gifts for those that happened to not make the gift list during the hustle and bustle of shopping. But, we still want to recognize them and gift them something. Therefore, having a stack of small useful gifts in your stash is helpful and convenient.
Crochet Hot Pads Make Great Gifts
Crochet hot pads are one of those gifts everyone, and I mean everyone, LOVES. Plus they can be hard to find for most people that don’t crochet. So, gifting hot pads is a great handmade gift that will be appreciated. Check out my traditional hot pad and dish scrubby pattern that also has a free printable gift tag by clicking HERE.
Because that last design was so popular I wanted to create another hot pad with a different spin on it. I created another FREE hot pad tutorial, but this time it features a handy pocket! Everyone loves pockets, plus it makes an adorable way to gift goodies!
But, before I get to the details about the Pocket Hot Pad crochet pattern, I want to share with you a great resource for more fun stash buster projects that make great last minute gifts.
The 2021 Holiday Stashdown CAL
Every Monday and Thursday from October 4 through December 16, 2021, a free crochet pattern from a different designer will be shared. Each pattern will be a one-skein project, or a stashbuster/scrappy project, so you can work from your own existing yarn stash to make a great winter holiday gift, decoration, or wrap. If you’d like to go ahead and buy some yarn just for the project, we won’t stop you! We love yarn as much as you do.
Plus at the end of the CAL there is a huge giveaway so don’t forget to enter in this post on Underground Crafter by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, December 31, 2021! Enter HERE.
How to Participate in the Stashdown CAL
You can join in by crocheting the featured patterns as you have time.
Share your progress and post pictures of your finished projects. Tag your projects and posts #CALCentralCrochet and #HolidayStashdownCAL on all social media.
By the end of the CAL, you’ll have up to 22 gifts, decorations, or wrap projects for the winter holidays.
Visit Underground Crafter to learn more about the prizes, enter the end-of-CAL giveaway, and to get links to each Holiday Stashdown CAL pattern as it is released.
About the Pocket Hot Pad
The design of the hot pad is created with a stitch that practically crochets a double thickness so there is no need for a double layer. This is a big time saver. The pattern includes 2 sizes and can be made with or without a pocket on it. But, my favorite part is the cute little hanging loop in the corner!
Materials Needed
Crochet Hook Size I (5.50mm)
Worsted (#4) Weight Yarn in 2 colors – these were so much fun to make I made a few samples to show you- you can check out the yarn details below:
Large Red sample – Premier Anti Pilling Everyday Worsted
Main Color (Burgundy) ~ 120 yards (less than 1 skein)
Contrasting Color (Cream) ~ 30 yards (less than 1 skein or scrap)
Small Blue sample – Premier Anti Pilling Everyday Worsted
Main Color (Quiet Blue) ~ 100 yards (less than 1 skein)
Contrasting Color (Admiral Blue) ~ 25 yards (less than 1 skein or scrap)
Small with No Pocket Gold sample – Premier Anti Pilling Everyday Worsted
Solid Color (Mustard) ~ 95 yards (less than 1 skein)
Measuring Tape
Yarn Needle
Scissors
Stitches Used
Ch = Chain
Slst = Slip Stitch
Sc = Single Crochet
Dc = Double Crochet
ThermalDc = Thermal Double Crochet (photo tutorial & video tutorials are below in this post)
ReversePuff = Reverse Puff Stitch (photo tutorial & video tutorial are below in this post)
BL = Back Loop
Gauge
Gauge will be checked while making the pattern. However, gauge isn’t essential unless you want the final size to be exact. It is essential that your stitches are even throughout the pattern and tight so heat doesn’t transfer through to your fingers too quickly. If your stitches are not tight, change hook to smaller size until this is achieved.
The pattern has 2 sizes. Instructions are written for the smaller size with larger size in parenthesis.
The hot pad is made in 2 pieces, a front and back that are then stitched together.
Do not count the beginning chain as a stitch.
When the pattern states to repeat, repeat what is stated in the brackets [ ].
Main piece of the Hot Pad Pattern
Begin by making the back of the hot pad (this is the full square piece) and if using 2 colors of yarn use your main color of yarn.
R1: Ch 25 (31), sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch to end, turn (24, 30)
R2: Ch 1, working in BL only for this row, dc in each st across, turn (24, 30)
Small Size Measures 6″ Wide / Large Size Measures 8″ Wide
R3: Ch 1, ThermalDc in each st across, turn (24, 30) Note: the first couple rows of the thermal stitch it is easier to rotate your work instead of turning, this allows you to see your stitch plaement. After a couple rows have beencrocheted, a traditional turn works great. If this is confusing you can watch my video tutorial below.
This image only shows the hook placement for the first step.
yarn over, insert hook into the back loop
insert hook into the unworked loop from prior row
pull up a loop
complete dc by yarn over pull through 2 loops on hook, yarn over pull through remaining 2 loops on hook-repeat this process in the next loops
Thermal Double Crochet tutorial
https://youtu.be/HzY7in-bZIk
Continue to repeat R3 until you have crocheted a total of 10 rows. This is when you should/can do a gauge check, your height for both the small and larger size should measure 3″ high.
Repeat R3 until measures 6” (8”) high or until the height matches the width
Final Row: Ch 1, in each st across sc through both loops of stitch AND the BL (unworked loop) of corresponding st from the prior row, fasten off and weave in ends (24, 30)
Make The Front Pocket for the Hot Pad (optional)
Repeat R1-R3 of the Hot Pad
Repeat R3 until measures 4” (6”) high or until the height is 2” short of the hot pad height
Switch to contrasting color
Final R1: Ch 1, in each st across sc through both loops of last stitch AND the BL (unworked loop) from the prior row, do not turn
Note: if you are right handed work next row from left to right / if you are left handed work the next row from right to left
Final R2: Ch 1, see above note, [skip st, yarn over, insert hook into next st from the right of your hook, pull up a loop, yarn over, insert hook into same st, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through all 5 loops on your hook, ch to close], repeat [ ] until 2 sts remain, skip next st, slst into next st, fasten off and weave in ends.
Working from left to right, skip first st, yarn over, insert hook into next st
and pull up a loop
yarn over, insert hook and pull up another loop, 5 loops on hook
yarn over, pull through all loops on hook, ch to close
Skip next st, yarn over
insert into the next st, pull up a loop
yarn over, pull up a loop
yarn over, pull through all 5 loops on hook, ch 1 to close
repeat pattern to end, slst in last st.
Video Tutorial for the Reverse Puff Stitch
https://youtu.be/x6W2OIowynI
Stitching Pocket & Border of Hot Pad
1st Step: If you did not make a pocket, skip to step 2. Place the pocket on top of the hot pad. Single crochet the pieces together working through both the hot pad and the pocket. Join with a slip stitch in the lower left corner, chain 1, working an even number of stitch on each side sc in each row end and/or st around (working 3 sc in the corners), do not count these corner 3 sc in your even number of stitches, join in top of the first sc, do not turn.
2nd Step: Begin the left side reverse puff stitch: Ch 1, Reverse Puff along the first side (left side working from bottom towards the top) until you reach the 3sc corner.
Create the Hanging loop
3rd Step: Reference photos below: Slst into 1st sc of the corner, ch 18 (same for both sizes), skip next st, slst in next st, turn, ch 1 and work 20sc in ch sp, slst into same st as beginning slst, turn, (if this transition is not the cleanest it is okay-it will be covered up when we wrap the base of the loop) slst into each sc in loop, slst into same st as slst in 3rd corner sc.
3. Slst into 1st sc of the corner
ch 18, skip next st, slst in next st
turn, ch 1 and work 20sc in ch sp
slst into same st as beginning slst, turn, slst into each sc in loop
slst into same st as slst in 3rd corner sc
4th Step: Repeat the Reverse Puff around the remaining 3 sides & corners of the hot pad, join in the beginning st of the round, fasten off and weave in ends.
5th Step: Wrap the base of the loop about 20 times, secure with a knot in the back and weave in the ends into the stitches of the border.
A Traditional Hot Pad, Dish Scrubby and Gift Printable
I mentioned in my earlier post that I have a tutorial for a traditional hat pad. That same tutorial includes a dish scrubby and a super cute printable for gift giving during the Christmas Season.
I wanted to share how cute some of the hot pads that my pattern testers finished. They always do such an amazing job! Their samples show how different you can make this pattern. Some demonstrate what it looks like with no pocket, or no hanging loop, solid color or multi-colored. Each one is unique and handmade with love.
This coordinating set was a Test by Judy
I love the display in this test by Trudy, shows how you can make it into a gift!
A no pocket & single color version in the test by Tanya.
Showing details in the test by Sarah, love how defined her reverse puff stitch is.
Nancy decided she didn’t want the hanging loop and it is still useful and looks great.
What an amazing event 2021 was. I would like to personally thank each and everyone of you that participated, whether it was as a designer, a crocheter or if you were just able to share the challenge-thank you.
I love seeing all the hats made and hearing so many heart touching stories about your donations. The messages about why this challenge means so much to you are overwhelming. I read each and every one and do my best to respond. I feel honored to be able to host such an amazing event.
Now, my favorite part…. in October of 2021, our crochet community knocked last years numbers of pledges out of the water with 54,661. Yes, that is 54,661 hat made and lives touched by YOU. Thank you.
Original Cancer Challenge Info for 2021
Fall is almost in full swing here, the temperatures are dropping and the air is nice and crisp. This is a sign that October is nearing and that means my Crochet Cancer Challenge is coming up! This is my favorite charity crochet event and this year we are celebrating its 9th year!
It has been such an honor to host this event every year and I am able to witness how charitable our crochet community is. I receive messages daily about how this is a project that is close to home for so many. It is a blessing to witness how our crochet community makes a difference one hat at a time.
what is the crochet Cancer Challenge
The Cancer Challenge is a crochet charity event that lasts the entire month of October. Each day of the month a new crochet pattern designer will be featured. In this feature they will release a new hat pattern that has been designed in honor of someone they know who has battled cancer or to help bring awareness to a specific type of cancer. Their hat design will be FREE for 48 hours in EXCHANGE for a pledge. By downloading the pattern for free you are taking a pledge to make a minimum of one hat from that pattern to donate.
Over the last 9 years, the Crochet Cancer Challenge has grown and reached so many. It is a personal charity that means so much to so many crocheters and so many of us designers. The time and efforts put into this event by everyone is greatly appreciated.
Each hat made has a special meaning for the designer, the maker and the recipient. Help spread the word and encourage our efforts to grow by sharing the challenge, the links, photos of your completed hats and your donation piles. Use the hashtag #CrochetCancerChallenge in your posts and shares to help identify our efforts.
The more people that see our challenge the more it will grow and the more we can touch others in a positive way.
Daily Crochet Cancer Challenge Features
Every day this blog post will be updated with the new featured designer’s crochet hat pattern links. All you have to do is go to their website, take a minute to read their post, learn the significant meaning behind their design and reflect on that as you make their design.
Just a reminder, each design is available for 24 hours only. If you miss a pattern, don’t worry, there will be plenty of others available. To get the pattern for free you will need to use the code “CancerChallenge“. 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.
Add a Tag to your donation
It’s fun to add something personal to your hats that you plan to donate. I created these simple tags that you can print, then punch a hole in the top and tie them to your completed hats. The tag gives you room to write the size of the hat (sometimes specifying childrens, adult small vs. adult large helps when they pick out a hat), plus you can write down your name as the maker.
You can optionally add a note on the back saying you were thinking of them as you crocheted their hat. Or, that you said a prayer for them, their family and or the doctors and nursing staff as you made the hat. It’s these personal touches that can make a generous gift even more personal.
The Colors of Courage Hat is designed in multiple colors to recognize all those fighting this awful battle. As you make this hat think about and pray for their journey.
This pattern is available for FREE through October 31, 2021.
Simply Melanie Jane – 1st Bonus Weekend
For my hat, I chose the color teal for ovarian/cervical cancer in honor of my sister. When she got the diagnosis, she was terrified, as so many others are as well. She lived too far away for me to give her a physical hug, but my thoughts and good vibes were always with her.
The Karen Strong beanie was created in honor of one of Pam’s dearest friends who lost her battle to multiple cancers in August of 2021. It’s the personal touch of this challenge that makes it so meaningful to so many.
This pattern is FREE through Tuesday October 5, 2021.
Oct 5 – Straight Hooked
Today is a very special day because it is my father’s birthday and to celebrate, I designed him a hat! If you were not aware, my father has been in Heaven for over 15 years. He got an early ticket to meet Jesus with the assistance of Glioblastoma, which is a form of brain cancer.
This pattern is available for FREE through 10/6/2021.
Oct 6 – Briana K
This year I chose the color black to highlight Melanoma Cancer. Skin cancer can be largely preventable. Since Iiving in Florida, I’ve become more aware of the need to protect my skin against the sun.
This pattern is available for FREE through Oct 31, 2021.
2nd Weekend Bonus – Fosbas Designs
TI have chosen to talk about tobacco cancer, as it is one of the common cancers where I grew up. This beanie is dedicated to everyone fighting cancer caused by the use of Tobacco. My thought and prayers are for you all.he Pebble Beanie
This pattern is available for FREE through Oct 10, 2021.
2nd Weekend Bonus – Lakeview Cottage Kids
The “Hope” Beanie is made with white yarn which is the color that represents lung cancer. Lung Cancer is the horrible disease that took my beloved Dad’s life. Here is the story of his cancer journey.
This pattern is available for FREE through Oct 13, 2021.
Oct 12 – Underground Crafters
My maternal grandmother who taught me to crochet passed away after a short battle with pancreatic cancer in 2007. I miss our weekly calls and her laughter so much!
Purple is the awareness color for pancreatic cancer,
This is Ambassador Crochet’s 6th year participating in the challenge.
In January 2019 the cancer challenge turned personal for me when my husband was diagnosed with stage 4 Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma (UTUC), which is a rare form of bladder cancer.
This pattern is available for FREE through Oct. 20, 2021.
Oct 14 – Nana’s Crafty Corner
Earlier this year Tonya received devastating news that her granddaughter, Nina, was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. This beanie was designed with this sweet little girl in mind, so please keep her in your thoughts and prayers as you crochet your donation hat.
Pattern is available for FREE through Oct 15, 2021.
Oct 15 – Crochets by Trista
I designed the Quiet River Hat in a light purple in honor of those with pancreatic cancer. One of my closest and dearest friends Grandmother, Yvonne, suffered from pancreatic cancer.”
Pattern is available for Free as part of the challenge through October 31, 2021.
Oct 18 – Snappy Tots
I am so happy to feature Snappy Tots, she has been a part of the Crochet Cancer Challenge every year since it started. This year her hat design is special because it acknowledges the wide range of daily emotions a cancer scare or diagnosis might cause.
This year’s hat is dedicated to by friend Shawna Dandois of DandoisLion DeLights and is currently on her journey with breast cancer. Yes, the hat is not pink, but she is an amazing human and I wanted to honor her and ask for prayers, universal love, and healing for her. Thank you it is my absolute honor to be a part of this event.
Pattern available FREE for the challenge through Oct 31, 2021.
Oct 21 – Bliss This
This year, I decided to create a beanie in honor of those who have battled or are battling prostate cancer. I named the beanie RJay, using my dad’s initials. I’m so grateful to have my dad here with us nearly 16 years after he BEAT cancer.
Pattern is FREE as part of the challenge through Oct 23.
Weekend Bonus – Creations by Courtney
(Courtney’s friend) Stacy dealt with thyroid cancer, and thyroid cancer is represented by a ribbon that is pink, purple and teal. While inspired by my friend, I added my own touch when designing the Stacy Sunhat.
As a Registered Nurse, I previously worked on a Neurology floor for a long time. Apart from taking care of stroke and head injury patients, we took care of brain and spinal cord tumor patients.
I had a vision for this hat all the way back in April. I knew I wanted to create a beginner friendly hat that was a modern twist on a classic design element.
Pattern is available for FREE as part of the challenge through Oct 31, 2021.
Oct 28 – Hooks Books & Wanderlust
Back in 2015 when I was going through chemo…, I made myself soooo many hats. I hated wearing my wig because it was so itchy, so I relied on hats daily. They served to keep me warm (boo to being bald in the winter!), act as “hair” in a weird sort of way, and frankly, to make me feel pretty and seen.
The Faith Hat crochet pattern is a very simple toque style hat. It features the brick stitch throughout the body of the hat to give it a beautiful texture.
Pattern will be FREE as part of the challenge through October 31, 2021.
Last Weekend Bonus – Juniper & Oakes
My aunt was a very special lady and I wanted this design to be dedicated to her. I had planned to gift her my mock-up the next time I saw her, but I ran out of the yarn I was using, and before I could get to the store to buy more… she passed away.
Free through October 31, 2021 as part of the Crochet Cancer Challenge.
Bonus Weekend – Remington Lane
St. Peregrine is the patron saint of those suffering from cancer and other diseases. So I wanted this hat to be a tribute to all of the cancer warriors out there. I chose the color white to represent lung cancer. My aunt has been fighting lung cancer all year.
Pattern availble FREE with your pledge through Oct 31, 2021.
Weekend Bonus – Creative Snugglies
A few years ago, I found out I had precancerous cells. The doctor informed me I had to have a hysterectomy. It was a very difficult time in my life especially since I was unable to conceive and carry a child to term. We have been so blessed with the gift of adoption but this has always been part of the cross I have to carry.
Pattern is available for FREE through Oct 31, 2021.
Bonus Pattern Time for those participating!
Check out how cute this is! I was so excited when Lisa reached out and told me she was so inspired by everyone making hats to donate that she designed this darling hat buddy and wanted to offer it free to all of you. I think this would be so cute for an office to use to display that they have hats for their patients.
Meet Hopeful, the Hat Buddy! I created this pattern for charity, to donate a cute Buddy to cancer centres and to hospitals, but I also created this pattern for all you lovely people who have been participating in the cancer challenge and have been working so hard to make beautiful hats and other items to donate to centres world wide. I thought, that you too may like to have a work station Buddy who sits and smiles at you while you work! So, this pattern is for your enjoyment as well…Unspoken hero’s you are I say… Hero’s in your own thoughtful way… So I hope you love making your own Hopeful Hat Buddy and that whatever you choose to do with it, I hope it puts a smile on your face or someone else’s face!
Crochet hats have always been my go-to designs. When the hats have a purpose, such as for the Crochet Cancer Challenge, the meaning behind them means even more. Those that have to battle through a cancer diagnosis must have courage and support. To honor them my design for the 2021 challenge is called the Colors of Courage Hat.
Colors of Courage
Unfortunately, there are so many different types of cancer. Over the years I have designed hats for someone specific each year. This year I wanted to honor them all by recognizing all the colors of the cancer ribbons.
After years of hosting the Crochet Cancer Challenge I have heard from so many participants. I hear which designs you love and which ones you find more challenging. The designs that tend to get the comments about “so quick and easy I made more than 1 hat to donate” usually have quick and easy stitches.
I have been listening! I know a huge “like” are top-down patterns, so this year that is exactly what I designed. The pattern uses a simple stitch that works up quickly but still has amazing texture. The texture does not affect the feel of the hat, it is still soft and comfortable against the head.
Materials Needed for the colors of courage Hat
Crochet Hook size I (5.50 mm)
Crochet Hook size H (5.00 mm)
Worsted Weight Yarn (#4) – 100-130 total yards
The samples made were using Lion Brand Mandala Ombre – color: Tranquil
Yarn Needle
Scissors
Measuring Tape
colors of courage hat design with tutorials
The pattern comes in sizes for children, youth/ladies and of course adult/men. As mentioned earlier, the hat is made in the traditional top-down method. I have included tutorials for the stitch combination used to create the texture in the main body of the hat.
Create the band of the hat using only the back bar to give the band a braided look. This is soft against the head but gives the hat the slight “hug” it needs to stay on.
The Colors of Courage Hat pattern will be FREE for the entire month of October 2021 as part of the Crochet Cancer Challenge. You MUST use the code “CancerChallenge” at checkout on Ravelry to get the pattern for FREE.
Crochet Cancer Challenge Information
Designs will be released each morning Monday through Friday with a bonus weekend release on Saturdays. The challenge will run the entire month of October.
Follow Sweet Potato 3 on Facebook to see more pattern releases, sales and crochet fun, just click HERE.
However, if you would enjoy a more interactive group experience, you need to join my Crochet & Conversations facebook group, click HERE. It is a ton of fun and I encourage everyone to share their projects, WIPS (works in progress) and inspirations. Plus you get exclusive deals, are the first to see new releases, give input on designs and have opportunities to win patterns. Join now and get to know others who also enjoy the art of crochet.
Someone asked me what inspires your designs. The answer is simple: textures, colors and eye appeal. When I design crochet blankets many things can spark an idea, but I will admit that quilting has always amazed me. I love all the small pieces, straight seams, and the eye for perfection. Log Cabin quilts are one of my favorites and inspired my latest, Mountain Lodge blanket design.
If you are not familiar with some of the history behind the Log Cabin Quilt designs and the meaning, I would love to share just a small tid bit with you. The design dates back as early 1830 in Egypt, but became popular in the 1860’s in during the Civil War. The following explains the importance of the center color square:
Early Log Cabin blocks were hand-pieced using strips of fabrics around a central square. In traditional Log Cabin blocks, one half is made of dark fabrics and the other half light. A red center symbolized the hearth of home and a yellow center represented a welcoming light in the window.
While I was designing the Mountain Lodge blanket, I had a few things I wanted to acheive. I’ll explain each of those below and hopefully you will get a good understanding about the design, the construction and the richness in the pattern.
The Stitches create a light fabric
I wanted the blanket to be a lighter weight design and a pattern that wouldn’t eat up a ton of yarn. My hope was to be able to grab this blanket and wrap up for a morning cup of coffee on the front porch in the spring and fall.
To acheive this, I went back and used one of my favorite stitches, the Extended Single Crochet. I have a tutorial on the stitch combination I used that you can watch to help see how easy the pattern is. The tutorial is not specific to this pattern, but shows how to work the combination of stitches. You can view the video by clicking HERE.
Deciding on Colors
Choosing your colors for a design can change the entire look of the blanket. I knew I wanted to stick with the “warmth of the home” for the center of the blanket. I was hoping for a softer look so decided on a light pink. Instead of doing all the squares a different color I stuck with the tradition of a dark and light color side but kept the light side all cream. I went with calming greens to accent the pink and kept the naeutral grey for the outline.
Choosing the square layout
In my designs I typically don’t like to do things in a traditional way. Stacking the squares directly on top of one another is lovely but I was hoping for a more modern twist. Deciding the angle the squares in a diamond shape gives the blanket an whole new look.
But, this creates a challenge with making the blanket a rectangle. I had to put my thinking cap on and design some half and quarter squares (triangles) to fill in those edges and create a nice shape to the blanket. By making these odd shaped edge pieces in a solid color really makes the actual log cabin pieces pop in the design.
A Simple Border
A simple border allows for the eyes to really focus on the design elements of the blanket. I didn’t want to loose the focus on the details in the log cabin squares so a very basic border was crocheted. This is easy to adjust the thickness as well by adding or deleting rows.
Easily adjust the size
The sample blanket was made using a light weight yarn called Mighty Stitch, I loved how this made the blanket so light weight. The final size was 35” wide X 42” high.
You can use a heavier weight yarn. However, that will effect your gauge. Gauge on a blanket does not have to match like it does while crochet garments and such. However, be aware that not meeting the gauge will alter the amount of yarn needed.
You can easily adjust the size of the blanket by adding more squares. I would love to see this design made in a full throw or bed spread size.
My Mimmo Caddy
While making the Mountain Lodge Blanket you make a lot of small pieces. This makes it an ideal project for on the go. But, you need something to tote all the pieces around with. This is why I am in love with my Mimmo Caddy. If you don’t have one your should check it out, I have a full review of why this tote is my favorite.
Flower Motif Blanket pattern that can be found HERE.
Sweet Serendipity Blanket Pattern, you can find by clicking HERE.
Chasing Arrows Blanket, crochet pattern can be found by clicking this LINK.
More Crochet Fun
Follow Sweet Potato 3 on Facebook to see more pattern releases, sales and crochet fun, just click HERE.
However, if you would enjoy a more interactive group experience, you need to join my Crochet & Conversations facebook group, click HERE. It is a ton of fun and I encourage everyone to share their projects, WIPS (works in progress) and inspirations. Plus you get exclusive deals, are the first to see new releases, give input on designs and have opportunities to win patterns. Join now and get to know others who also enjoy the art of crochet.
Crocheting garments has always intimidated me for so many reasons. Will it fit right? Is it going to be too warm? Will the style look okay on me? I think I found a perfect project for a crochet top garment for beginners, introducing the Between Seasons crochet top!
Chosing the Design for the Between Season Crochet Top
One of my goals for 2021 was to work on some garment designs that are easy to make even for beginners. I wanted them to be styles that flatter nearly all body shapes and that everyone can feel comfortable wearing.
These are the reasons my design has nice capped sleeves that make it ideal for between seasons (not as cool as top but not as warm as a sweater with full sleeves. Plus the boat neckline makes it a modest choice even with the open stitch work at the top of the shirt.
This is a crochet top I will actually wear! I’ll get pictures of me in it soon and share them with you. Until then, you can see how well it fits “Gladis”, my manniquin that my daughter happliy named.
Picking the Yarn
The Between Seasons Top was made with Berroco Comfort yarn. Although this yarn is a worsted #4 weight, it is on the thinner side of worsted weight yarn. This was choosen carefully because I didn’t want a heavy yarn and wanted the fibers to be breathable. It isn’t a cotton yarn but the 50% nylon makes a huge difference (it is also 50% acrylic). I love how soft the yarn is and how defined the stitches look when working with it. Plus, the color options are endless!
The Stitches
I carefully selected the stitches of the Between Season top. As I mentioned earlier, I was really worried about the top being too warm and too heavy. Even with a finer worsted weight yarn, using a traditional stitch can make it heavy to wear.
The main body of the top is made using a combination of stitches including the Extended Half Double Crochet. There is a video tutorial linked in the pattern, but take my word, this stitch is amazing. It works up fast, has the height of a double crochet but is very thin, resulting in a nice laying fabric for the garment body.
The open stitch work of the top is just fun. It adds a simple yet fun eye appeal with the change. This stitch pattern works up even quicker than the main body of the top.
Easy Construction for Beginners
I believe what makes crocheting garments so intimmidating is that there are certain angles for the arms and sleeves. But, this top with capped sleeves is so easy that beginners will wish they tried making one sooner. The top is made by crocheting two rectangles. You simply place them on top of one another and seam up the sides and the shoulders…. that is it!
This creates a perfect arm opening with a flirty cap on the sleeves. The boat neckline drapes in a flattering way as well. If this is your first garment, you may just fall in love and decide you want to make more advanced tops going forward. I know I will be designing some more in the near future. If you want to stay up to date, make sure you are subscribed to my newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/SweetPotato3Newsletter
Sizes & Where to Get the pattern
The Between Seasons Crochet Top comes in sizes from adult Small up to adult XXL.
3 – in – 1 Summer Wrap crochet pattern: click HERE
Crochet & Conversations
I would liek to invite you to join my interactive Facebook group. It is called SP3 Crochet & Conversations, it is full of like minded people who enjoy learning about crochet as much as you do. As a member (which is totally free), you will get to help decide pattern names, colors, what designs will be coming, and so much more.
I believe it is the best day of the year!!! Did you know that August 15th is Relaxation Day? Yes, you heard me right, there is a day that is devoted to relaxation. Personally, this means a little Self Care and pampering are in order (and maybe a little crochet too).
Relaxation Day is a day to kick back and do nothing. Ahhhh!
What a great day. The stresses, the hustle and bustle seemingly consumes us, every day of the year. Even Sundays are no longer days of rest and relaxation. There never seems to be a day to just kick back and relax. For those us with a hectic lifestyle, Relaxation Day is a day to look forward to.
It provides a break from the madness of your busy work and personal schedule. Todays is the day to enjoy either doing absolutely nothing, or partaking in your favorite relaxation activity. Avoiding stressful activities today is the rule.
When I think of “self care”, I think of the things that I enjoy and love. As a mom, and know many of you are moms (even if you have grown children), we live hectic lives and rarely get time to ourselves. So, when we do, we MUST take advantage of that time.
What do I do when I have time to myself, and do I dare say it, the house to myself! I take the time relax….
If I had a day (or even just a morning), I would sleep in, roll out of bed and have a cup of coffee, or two. Then I would take a long hot bath, and take the time to shave my legs (hahaha, no I don’t do this everyday-remember, I’m a mom). I may steal a face mask from my daughters bathroom and pamper myself with a little skin care.
Then I would sit down and crochet. I don’t even know what I would crochet, but I would make something for me, I do know that.
What would you do, if you had a day to just yourself to focus on self care and relaxation?
Self Care Crochet Patterns
Well, that is the dreamy stuff. Until that “me time” actually happens, I can prep for it! And, I can even do that with the hustle and bustle of life going on. These are some quick and easy crochet patterns that you can sit and make when you have just a few minutes or take them and work on them while you are waiting in the school pick up line.
Sometimes all you need is a quick and easy crochet washcloth pattern! One you can start and finish within a couple of hours. The Blossom Washcloth is exactly that!
Take time for self care with these easy to crochet face scrubbies. Crochet several with scrap cotton yarn from your stash. Or, with just one ball of yarn you can make multiple scrubbies so you’ll always have a fresh one.
Face scrubbies are great eco-friendly and reusable facial pads. They can be mainly used to clean up your facial makeup or simply as a cleansing cloth. This quick crochet face scrubbie pattern will be a great gift idea. You will make a set like the one pictured here in just about less than an hour and a half.
A fun unique hexagon shaped face scrubby. I love how a traditional, reusable scrubby can have a whole new level of excitement just by switching up the shape. Make sure you check out the pattern below.
Remove your makeup with these cotton scrubbies, crochet them for gifts or for yourself. An added bonus with this design is that it comes in US & UK terms. Make sure you follow the one you are used too.
So far it has been all about face scrubbies, so I had to include this perfect Spa Headband. Seriously, you need a headband to hold back those fly aways before you can ever even begin to wash your face.
So, we all know that we love a handmade face scrubby. They make great gifts which is why I love that Desert Blossom Crafts included a free printable to make them look amazing when giving.
Makeup remover pads, facial rounds, cotton pads, face scrubbies… whatever you want to call them these reusable cotton rounds are your skincare routine’s BFF. They’re quick to make and work great for removing makeup or applying your favorite products.
The Farmhouse Spa Set pattern includes everything you will need to gift it. A basekt, face scrubbies, a puff, washcloth and soap saver. Great ideas all around!
Half way through July-Oh My! I cannot believe how quick the year is flying by, we are only 6 months away from Christmas. So, to celebrate this mid-way point I want to offer you all my Peppermint Twist Hat pattern for FREE. This is such a fun and unique design you are sure to love.
July 15th is a National Holiday for “giving something away”. I love the meaning behind this special day:
“Giving benefits us all… The giver also benefits. Giving not only makes us feel good but it teaches gratitude, too. Whether we give financially or by offering our skills and services, we lift others up. Our words can be a gift, too. Showing empathy, encouragement, and compassion to someone during a time of need may make us feel vulnerable, but it empowers those we offer it to as well.”
When I think back on my childhood and Christmas time I think of all the goodies that are always readily available at parties. My favorite was homemade peppermints and how refreshing they were as they would melt in my mouth.
The Design Inspiration
See those twists of color? That was the inspiration behind this whimsical hat design. My favorite is the red and white, but it is so fun in other colors as well.
The Peppermint Twist hat pattern comes in sizes from newborn up to adult. The hat is made as a flat piece that is a parallelogram, and then sewn together along the ends. This is an easy pattern that is fun to see different color combinations.
Materials:
Hook size J (6 mm)
Hook size K (6.5 mm)
40-120 yards Worsted Weight Yarn (#4) in 2 colors – I used Red Heart Super Saver
Yarn Needle
Scissor
Stitches & Abbreviations Used:
Ch = Chain
Hdc = Half Double Crochet
Slst = Slip Stitch
2Hdc = work 2 Half Double Crochets in the same stitch
Hdc2tog = Half Double Crochet the next 2 stitches together
Gauge Check:
Please check gauge for appropriate sizing, change hook to correct size to obtain gauge. Each size uses a different hook size, so find what hook is recommended for the size you plan on crocheting, them complete your gauge check accordingly.
With Hook J: 8 rows with 14 hdc = 4 inches square (newborn, 6-12 month, youth)
With Hook K: 7 rows with 12 hdc = 4 inches square (3-6 month, 12-24 month, adult)
Hat Sizing:
The sizing of the Peppermint Twist Hat is slightly different than other Sweet Potato 3 Patterns, this is due to the design of the hat and the stretch.
Newborn (13” around & 5” high not counting top twist – fits up to 14” circumference)
3 to 6 Months (14” around & 5 ½ “ high not counting top twist – fits up to 15″ or 16″ circumference)
6 to 12 Months (16″ around & 6” high not counting top twist – fits up to 18″ circumference)
Toddler (18 ½” around & 7” high not counting top twist – fits up to 20″ circumference)
Youth (20” around & 8” high not counting top twist – fits up to 22” circumference)
Adult (22” around & 9” high not counting top twist – fits up to 24” circumference)
Notes About The Peppermint Twist Hat Design
Count the beginning chain as a stitch in each row.
Switch color of yarn every 2 rows, fasten off and bury yarn as you go.
When measuring the completed item measure from top to bottom, not along the diagonal stripe.
Hat height measurement given is the length from the base/crown of the hat up to the gather (or part that sits on top of the head), the gathered top is not included.
Peppermint Twist Hat Crochet Pattern
Newborn, 6-12 month, youth sizes use Hook J (6.00 mm)
3-6 Month, toddler, adult size use Hook K (6.50 mm)
pattern is written for the newborn size with subsequent sizes in parenthesis.
For example: hdc in the next 24 (24, 29, 29, 37, 37) correlates to hdc in next Newborn (3-6 month, 6-12 month, toddler, youth, adult).
R1: Ch 29 (29, 33, 33, 41, 41), 2hdc in 3rd ch from hook, hdc in next 24 (24, 29, 29, 37, 37) st, hdc2tog, turn (28, 28, 32, 32, 40, 40)
R2: Ch 2, hdc2tog, hdc in next 24 (24, 29, 29, 37, 37) sts, 2hdc in last st, turn (28, 28, 32, 32, 40, 40)
Change Yarn Color
R3: Ch 2, 2hdc in 1st st, hdc in next 24 (24, 29, 29, 37, 37) sts, hdc2tog, turn (28, 28, 32, 32, 40, 40)
R4-24(24, 28, 28, 32, 32): repeat rows 2 & 3 while continuing to change yarn color after every 2 rows.
Final Row: Lay hat flat, fold lower left corner over so it is aligned with the bottom edge. Next fold the upper right corner over. The bottom of your first row and the top of your last row will be aligned at an angle.
To crochet together, slst the sts from R1 and R24 (24, 28, 28, 32, 32) together. The ends that you are stitching together are at angles, match up the 1st sts and as you work each stitch the edges will come together to create the diagonal design. After sewing rows together, fasten off and bury ends. Turn hat right side out, this will leave the seam on the inside of the hat.
Drawstring: Ch 40 (40, 50, 50, 60, 60), fasten off. Drawstring should measure about 11″ (11″, 12″, 12″, 13″, 13″). From the top of the hat count down 6 (6, 8, 8, 10, 10) sts, weave the drawstring through the sts of each row. Pull drawstring tight, wrap until the ends of the chain are left, tie tightly and weave in loose ends.
Follow Sweet Potato 3 on Facebook to see more pattern releases, sales and crochet fun, just click HERE.
However, if you would enjoy a more interactive group experience, you need to join my Crochet & Conversations facebook group, click HERE. It is a ton of fun and I encourage everyone to share their projects, WIPS (works in progress) and inspirations. Plus you get exclusive deals, are the first to see new releases, give input on designs and have opportunities to win patterns. Join now and get to know others who also enjoy the art of crochet.
Some Fun Ways Others are Celebrating “give something away day”
Check out a cute Hooded Tiger Blanket by Timmel Crochet – click HERE.
See How to Make a Crochet Dolphin by Creative Snugglies – click HERE.
The temperatures have been rising and sandy beaches have been calling, therefore it is definitely time to bust out the swim wear. But, I believe many of us like having a cute cover up to throw on as we tromp down to the beach with all our gear in tote. So, I think you will love my latest design, the Summer Breeze Swim Cover Up crochet pattern.
As a crochet designer I try to come up with creative projects to work on in the summer. I am not into crocheting heavy blankets when my thermostat is above 80 (we don’t have air conditioning). So, I tend to work with light weigh yarns or on small projects.
After inquiring with “my favorite people” in SP3 Crochet & Conversations (if your not a member, be sure to check it out HERE), they said they really wanted me to design a swim cover up. When I design something, especially a wearable, I want it to be something I personally would wear.
The Summer Breeze Swim Cover Up is modest, loose fitting, lightweight but oh so dang cute!
Color Changing Blended Yarn
Radhika from The Yarnveda had contacted right around the time I was planning my Swim Cover Up design. She had some gorgeous color changing yarn that was an ideal 50% cotton/50% acrylic blend. I knew this would be the perfect yarn to use, plus, the colors are spot on for beachwear!
The Stitches in the Summer Breeze Cover Up
With the yarn in hand, I knew the style of the cover up so now I was on the on the hunt for some fun stitches. I usually try to create something brand new but there were a few stitches that kept coming to mind from past designs.
I knew I wanted something that created a finer stitch, not heavy. It was important the stitch would be flowy and lightweight. My Forest Friends blanket was just that and I knew I wanted to combine the main stitch of that blanket into the cover up. Plus, I LOVE crocheting the Extended Single Crochet Stitch.
But, I had to throw in a few more stitches for some eye catching appeal. A few years ago I did a CAL for a Big & Comfy Equanimity Blanket and everyone fell in love with a double row X stitch. I knew this stitch combination would leave some open gaps in the cover up and would coordinate well.
But, still hunting for another “quick” row of stitches, my Whispering Willows Poncho was another fun summer design and I decided to pull in those stitches as well. So, I guess I took my favorite stitches from past designs, add some gorgeous yarn and came up with my newest design that I absolutely love.
About The Design
The Summer Breeze Cover Up fits loosely with a decorative belt used to showcase a gathered waistline. The length is designed to hang a couple inches above the knee when standing. The pattern includes sizes from adult small up to XXXL.
3 – in – 1 Summer Wrap crochet pattern: click HERE
Crochet & Conversations
As I mentioned above, my facebook group helps me decide on upcoming designs and it is just a fun interactive group of fellow crochet lovers. I would like to invite you to come join in on all the crochet fun, just click HERE. You can also sign up for my newsletter to stay up to date on all the latest, I promise you won’t get spammed, just lots of fun crochet patterns and ideas. You can sign up for my newsletter by clicking HERE.
Crocheting home décor items are a perfect way to showcase your love for working with yarn. However, it can be challenging to find modern designs that add a little texture and warmth without making your display to cluttered. The Woven Basket/Pot Holder is just that, it doesn’t add an extra object (clutter), it just adds that missing piece of texture you’ve been longing for.
I created a full tutorial that will walk you through how to customize this design to suit your need. It can be made as a plant pot cover, for any sized plant, or you can create a shallow basket as a catch all. You could even crochet it smaller to work as a crochet hook holder or can cozy. If you can think of a fun idea, this tutorial will work!
The Accident that lead to the woven basket design
I had a plant that was displayed in my entryway. One afternoon my daughter was goofing off with her brothers and threw something (I honestly can’t even remember what it was) and it bounced off one of the boys, hit the plant which crashed to the floor. The pot completely shattered. Now, all I had was a cute plant with an ugly Styrofoam base.
I had some leftover home decor yarn from a project I had previously worked on (a whole book on home décor you can find it HERE… link coming soon) and thought the yarn would be fun to use to create a new base for the plant.
The Woven Look of the Stitch
When I stumble upon a new stitch my mind usually starts to buzz with ideas on how to incorporate it into a new design. When I saw this gorgeous woven stitch, I knew right away it had be worked into a basket design. Isn’t this stitch amazing?
Materials Needed
Honestly, this is the fun part about woven basket design. The pattern is designed so you can customize it to the size you want. I encourage you to go to your yarn stash and grab the color of yarn you really want to use. Don’t worry about the weight of the yarn, just estimate if you will have enough. I made 3 samples, seen below, in the next paragraph I will let you know how much yarn I used for each one.
The short basket that I left empty (we use it as a catch all for keys) uses Berroco Comfort Yarn (color: 9709). This yarn was in my stash and was left over from my Bella Borsetta Clutch pattern, you can find that by clicking HERE. The Berroco yarn is a finer worsted weight yarn. Therefore, I decided to crochet the basket holding 2 strands together and used about 80-100 yards total. For this sample I used a crochet hook size K (6.50 mm).
I used Hobby Lobby’s I Love This Yarn in the smallest sample in the color, Ivory. I used 1 strand of yarn (crochet hook size I (5.50mm) ) and the entire pattern worked up in about 60 yards.
For the larger pink basket I used Lion Brand Rewind yarn which is a (finer) bulky home décor yarn. I used about half of a skein, or 100 yards, and used a crochet hook size K (6.50 mm). The Mahogany Rose color is very soft and muted.
Other items you may want to have on hand are a stitch marker, scissors and yarn needle.
Stitches and abbreviations Used
Ch(s) = Chain(s)
St(s) = Stitch(es)
Sc = Single Crochet
Hdc = Half Double Crochet
Spike Sc = Spike Single Crochet
Reverse Sc = Reverse Single Crochet (also known as the Crab Stitch)
FP = Front Post
BL = Back Loop Only
FL = Front Loop Only
R = Row/Round
The ridged bottom of the Woven Basket
The woven stitch creates a nice thick fabric which holds up great for sides of a basket. However, when you create something with sides are are thicker/heavier it is important to have a sturdy base. This took some trial and error but I eventually came up with a fun way to do just that.
Plus, the technique I used created a ridge on the basket bottom/base which helps keep the circular shape of the basket.
Gauge Check
This pattern is very unique since it can be customized to any size and can be made with any type of yarn. Due to all the customization available, you do not need to check your gauge. Just follow the instructions to make the basket the size you want. Make sure you use the recommended hook size on your yarn label.
A step by step video
Beginning your custom basket or pot holder
R1: Ch 2, 8hdc in 2nd ch from hook, join with a slst in the top of the 1st hdc of the round (8) pull beginning strand of yarn to close hole *note: you may begin with a magic circle if you prefer
Part 1 of R2: you will crochet 2 layers in this round, Ch 1, work this section in the BL only, 2hdc in each st around making sure not to work into the joining slst of R1 (16), do not join
Part 2 of R2: you will now work a round in the unworked FL (1st image) repeating the 2hdc in each st around, this will create a 2nd layer (2nd image) join in both of the 1st stitches from both layers (3rd image) to complete the round (4th image)
R3: Ch 1, work this round working through both layers of R2, 2hdc in 1st st, hdc in next st, [2hdc in next st, hdc in next st], repeat [] around (24)
R4: using the same technique you used on R2, crochet 2 layers in this round, Ch 1, work this section in the BL only 2hdc in 1st st, hdc in each of the next 2 sts, [2hdc in next st, hdc in each of the next 2 sts], repeat [] around (32) do not join, you will now work a round in the unworked FL repeating [] around, join in both of the 1st stitches of each layer in this round
R5: Ch 1, work this round working through both layers of stitches from R4, 2hdc in 1st st, hdc in each of the next 3 sts, [2hdc in next st, hdc in each of the next 3 sts], repeat [] around (40)
*note: at this point you will continue to crochet increase rounds working every even rows with a double layer. Odd rows crochet as a single layer while working through the double layer of the previous row. Continue this pattern until the bottom of your basket in your desired size. You can end on either an even or an odd row.
Final Round: Ch 1, sc in each st around, join
Creating the turn from bottom to side of basket
R1: Ch 1, loosely FPsc in each st around, join and turn
If you are wondering what a FP (front post) single crochet is, take a look at the photo tutorial below: Ch 1, insert hook around the post of the st from the prior row (see image 1 & 2), yarn over and pull up a loop (image 3 & 4), yarn over pull through both loops on hook to complete the FPsc (image 5), repeat around row (image 6).
R2: Ch 1, sc in each st around, join
R3: Ch 1, spike st in each st around, join
See the tutorial below for the spike stitch: Begin with a ch 1, insert your hook into the base of the sc from the prior row (image 1 & 2), pull up a loop (image 3), yarn over, pull through 2 loops on hook to complete the spike st (image 4), continue working a spike stitch (image 5) around entire row, join (image 6).
The Woven Stitch / Side of Basket
R4: Ch 1, skip first st, in next st work 1 row below , working into the skipped st of current row repeat [], {skip next st, in next st work 1 row below repeat [], working in the skipped st of the current row repeat []}, repeat {} around, join (see photo tutorial below).
Repeat R4 to desired height – I recommend watching the video to see stitch placement. It is much easier to show than try to explain. Video is further up in the blog post.
A Rolled Finished Edge
Once you finish the sides of your basket it is nice to have an easy and clean edge. I love the rolled look of the last round. It helps create a clean and professional edge that doesn’t take away from the beautiful stitching throughout the design.
R1: Ch 1,reverse sc (crab st) in each st around, fasten off and weave in all ends.
Reverse Single Crochet Tutorial: You will work backwards going from left to right. Insert hook into 1st st (image 1 & 2), pull up a loop (image 3), you now have 2 loops on your hook.Yarn over and pull through both loop on hook to complete your first reverse sc (image 4), insert your hook into the next st to your right, remember you are working backwards (image 5-see where needle is pointing), repeat in each st (image 6).
With Spring upon us and the sun shinning, I know we are all dreaming of visiting the nearest sandy shores for a splendid day at the beach. Grab your tote, fill it with goodies such as a towel, sunscreen, water, snack and flip flops. Oh wait, is your old tote need to visit the recycle bin? No worries, take the stress out of it and crochet up a new Paradise Beach Tote with this fabulous crochet pattern.
Not only is this an ideal size for a day at the beach, you may learn a few new tricks of the trade (our crochet trade)!
the Paradise Beach Tote
Designed to be just the right size for a day trip, the totes completed size will come out at about 14” wide by 15” tall and is 3” deep. The square base allows for more room to place those essentials in a more organized fashion.
As the crochet pattern progresses up towards the top, you will follow a graph. But, don’t fret over this. If reading graphs is not your favorite thing, I have included a “cheat sheet” on the graph. It will tell you exactly how many stitches in each color need to be worked in each row.
So Many Tutorials – Twist Cord
The Paradise Beach Tote was so much fun to design and see it develop into what I had envisioned. As I neared the top I had to make a decision on what type of strap I wanted. I have always loved the look of Twist Cords so thought that would be a fun way to reintroduce the colors back into the design.
But, it is a little tricky to explain how to make one of these fun and colorful twist cords. As in so many of my designs, I decided to just make a quick video tutorial to help demonstrate how easy they really are to make.
The Twist Cords for each strap of the tote are completed! Yay, you may have just learned something new. But, adding them to the tote can be a little tricky. Leaving holes in your crochet piece works but over time, they stretch and won’t hold their shape.
The solution: Grommets! You will be amazed at how easy they are to add. Again, I went to my video camera and threw together another quick tutorial:
Hopefully you are convinced this is a great tool to use and so easy! Now, are you wondering where to get the grommets, and what about those tools? Well, it is easy to purchase a small kit. I used this one on Amazon:
The great part about this Grommet Kit is that it comes with multiple grommets and all the tools you need including that scrap piece of wood.
See Samples Made by my Pattern Testers
One of the greatest rewards with designing crochet patterns is seeing the completed projects from those that have made something from them. This test was so fun when I got the feedback and photos from my testers.
Susie made her tote using Red Heart Ombre yarn (in the color ‘scuba’) and it created lovely color fades. The bold contrast of the Hobby Lobby I Love that Yarn (in the color ‘coral sparkles’) was the perfect color for the lettering. Susie said, “I can fit my large beach towel, water shoes, mask, snorkel and so much more.”
Nancy tested the tote and I love the alterations she made. The bold colors are perfect for spring. She also adjusted the final round to be made in a contrasting color showing off the texture. More alterations included her brilliant addition of the pegs on the bottom of the bag and the strap running straight across from one end to the other (instead of 1 strap on each side like mine).
The next test that came is was done by Heidi. She made the straps slightly shorter and in 3 colors (instead of 4) and I love how distinct all the colors are in it! Heidi also topped the bag with the same colors as the middle lettering which really tied the bag together.
The final test that was completed was by Vickie, she did a fabulous job and shows off the size and how useful the tote is! Pluss her decision to use the same multi-colored yarn for all the lettering turned out perfect.
Materials Needed for Paradise Beach Tote Crochet Pattern
Crochet Hook size H (5.00 mm)
Worsted Weight Yarn (#4)
920 total yards
Sample Made using Premier Anti-Pilling Everyday
Measuring Tape
Scissors
Yarn Needle
4 – 3/8” grommets (hammer for installation)
Where to find the Paradise Beach Tote crochet pattern
Follow Sweet Potato 3 on Facebook to see more pattern releases, sales and crochet fun, just click HERE.
However, if you would enjoy a more interactive group experience, you need to join my Crochet & Conversations facebook group, click HERE. It is a ton of fun and I encourage everyone to share their projects, WIPS (works in progress) and inspirations. Plus you get exclusive deals, are the first to see new releases, give input on designs and have opportunities to win patterns. Join now and get to know others who also enjoy the art of crochet.
