Single Shoulder Strap Pattern/Tutorial

Just in case you missed it, a couple of weeks ago, I posted the pattern for my Blog Collection Round Hobo Bag, possibly my favorite bag so far. Although that Windmill bag... Maybe I should just refrain from playing favorites.

Anyhow, because the straps of the bags in this collection are meant to be interchangeable, I chose not to post it all in one go. That, and I had yet to write up a coherent pattern.

Please be aware that the instructions for the strap are specific to the Round Hobo Bag, but a quick note about changing it up for other bags follows the pattern.

**********

Single Shoulder Strap

chain 120, do not turn, skip next 54 sts

Design Note:  For now, ignore those 54 skipped stitches, but you may want to mark the first and last skipped stitch so they're easier to find later.

Round 1:  being careful not to twist chain, connect to next st w/sc, sc in next 53 sts, sc in each ch across (174 sts)

Round 2:  sc in each of next 53 sts, skip next st, sc in each of next 119 sts, skip last st (172 sts)

Round 3:  skip 1^st st, sc in next 51 sts, skip next 2 sts, sc in each of next 117 sts, skip last st (168 sts)

Round 4:  skip 1^st st, sc in next 49 sts, skip next 2 sts, sc in next 115 sts, skip last st (164 sts)

Round 5:  skip 1^st st, sk in next 47 sts, skip next 2 sts, sc in next 114 sts, join w/sl st in 1^st st (161 sts)

finish off, weave in ends

(opposite side) Round 1:  connect w/sc at 1^st skipped st, sc in next 53 sts, sc in each unused loop of ch (174 sts)

Rounds 2-5:  repeat Rounds 2-5 above

finish off, weave in all ends

**********

Modifying this strap to fit any bag is fairly simple. Instead of skipping 54 stitches, use the stitch count of the last row/round of your bag. Divide your total stitch count by two. This is the number of stitches you will skip.

In the coming months, as I post other bags from this series, I will also post the how-to's for their respective straps including a slightly narrower shoulder strap and a much shorter rolled handle. In the meantime, have fun playing with this one.

Happy Crocheting!

Get It Together (free tutorial for assembling the Blog Collection Windmill Bag)

Okay, last week you got the pattern for the panels of the Windmill Bag based on my signature, Blog Collection, motif. This week, I'm going to show you how I assembled the bag. There are many, less complicated, ways of putting the pieces together, but I use this one because it only requires two seams. (We have already established that I hate to sew, right?)

If you're a newbie, I'd recommend trying a simpler assembly method first. You'll find numerous tutorials on various blogs and on Youtube.

Lay all four of your pieces out so they are set the same way. The bottom is your beginning chain; the top is Row 17.

On the bottom, place a marker at the 17^th stitch from the left (mine is green). On the top, place a different colored marker at the 18^th stitch from the right (mine is blue).

Lay your pieces out end-to-side as shown so they resemble a windmill. Attach them using your stitch markers. Each row at either end will require one stitch, hence the count of 17.

At the center (which will be your bottom), hold all 4 together with one marker.

Fold up your opposite ends and attach them to one another using the stitch markers so they resemble the picture that shows the assembled piece. The corner of one panel will meet the blue marker of the next panel. This will give you the zig-zag effect at the top. You may want to pin the sides or use additional stitch markers to hold them together as you might if you were sewing a fabric bag.

At this point, you should be able to visualize a finished sack.

Hold the bag inside out with right sides (outside) facing. *Attach your yarn with a slip stitch at the open end (top) of the bag through two layers and slip stitch the pieces together.

Continue stitching through the center where all four pieces join and end at the opposite side, on the top of the bag.

Repeat from the * for the remaining seam.

Note: Assuming the seams would go through quite a bit of strain, I chose to crochet through all 4 loops to give the bag more strength.

You should now have a sack that resembles the one pictured except for the border and shoulder straps.

I will publish the pattern/tutorial for the border and straps next week.

Happy Crocheting!

Don Quixote Eat Your Heart Out (free pattern)

I began working on this pattern about a year ago. This is why I haven't posted any free patterns on the blog in so long. Finding the time to crochet has been tough enough, but finding the time to design and work a prototype has been darn near impossible.

However, a few weeks ago, I stumbled across the pattern and supplies again while cleaning and decided I was so close to done that I should go ahead and finish the job. It has been my go-to project whenever I feel the need to procrastinate.

I planned, initially, to do two bags: the Windmill (aka pinwheel), and a basic hobo style. Because I love a hobo bag, but I enjoy having several sizes at my disposal, I later came to the conclusion that two hobo bags -- one round, one oval -- might be a better idea.

But the ideas kept expanding and changing as I got further and further into the project. Now, it's quite likely you will see a collection of four bags and a wristlet. I'm testing each of the patterns here on the blog where you will eventually find them all at no charge, released as each pattern and prototype is finished.

I also plan to group the whole collection and make it available as an e-book for Kindle. If all goes well, you'll eventually see it in print and on other e-reader platforms as well.

I also intend to keep the promise I made to my blog readers the first time I posted a free pattern here: Although you may find these patterns for sale elsewhere, any pattern bearing my signature (Big Girl/Blog Collection) motif will be available here on the blog at no charge.

The Blog Collection

Windmill Bag

Supplies:

about 400 yds (4 balls, 8-10 oz) worsted weight yarn

size H-8 (5mm) crochet hook

stitch markers or pieces of scrap yarn in two colors

yarn needle or smaller crochet hook for weaving in ends

Note: If you plan to sew the pieces together rather than crochet them, you will need a yarn needle regardless of how you plan to work your ends. Do not weave in ends as you go since you may wish to use long ends to connect your pieces. The assembly tutorial does not make use of the long ends. Instead, it illustrates my preferred method of assembly which is not recommended for beginners.

Make 4:

chain 58

Note: All rows count 57 stitches.

Row 1: sc in 2^nd ch from hook and in each ch across, turn

Row 2: ch1, sc in each st across, turn

Row 3: repeat Row 2

Row 4: repeat Row 2

Row 5: ch1, sc in BLO of each st across, turn

Row 6: ch1, sc in FLO of each st across, turn

Row 7: ch1, sc in BLO of 1^st st, [dc in BLO of next st, sc in BLO of next st] across, turn

Row 8: ch1, dc in FLO of 1^st st, [sc in FLO of next st, dc in FLO of next st] across, turn

Row 9: repeat Row 7

Row 10: repeat Row 8

Row 11: repeat Row 7

Row 12: ch1, sc in FLO of each st across, turn

Row 13: ch1, sc in BLO of each st across, turn

Row 14: ch1, sc in FLO of each st across, turn

Row 15: ch1, sc in each st across, turn

Row 16: repeat Row 15

Row 17: repeat Row 15

finish off, leave long end unless you plan to use the assembly tutorial

one completed panel

The tutorials for my methods of assembling the pieces and crocheting straps will follow in upcoming posts over the next few weeks. My method is kind of advanced, not meant for beginners. I came up with it to minimize working with multiple pieces. (I can't stand having to sew/crochet pieces together.) You will likely find simpler methods on youtube.

As always, please don't re-post or share the pattern. You are welcome to link to my blog and I would encourage you to make more than a few to sell at craft fairs or in your Etsy shop. All I ask is credit for the pattern and design.

Happy Mother's Day!

New Friend (Mine) and New Patterns (Not Mine)

My online life has been a whirlwind lately. But there are so many positives coming from it, I can't complain. In the midst of cleaning up my blog address SNAFU a couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to meet (via email) the hard working brain behind one of my favorite websites, dish and washcloth mania. Norma collects kitchen and bath themed patterns from all over the web to gather them in one easy to use location. In its lifetime, my blog has received just under 10,000 hits from her site. You can imagine how honored I was when Norma agreed to be interviewed here on the blog. So, without any further introduction, I present to you the goddess of dishcloth patterns, Norma:

The Big Girl Scrubby was the first of my patterns listed on Dish and Wash Cloth Mania

Laurie:  Assume anyone reading this has not had the opportunity to visit your site. Tell us what to expect when we arrive.

Norma:  The left side of the page contains posts that I have written about changes or additions to the site. There is an occasional post on a topic I think may be of interest to visitors. The upper right portion of the site contains two static text areas. The first one provides details about the header picture. The second one provides detail about the purpose and intent of the site. Below these text areas and on the left, is a column labeled Pages. Each page contains links to specific categories of items.

L:  When did you begin Dish and Washcloth Mania?

N:  I started it in August of 2006.

L:  What motivated you to start it?

N:  I was not working outside the home at the time and needed to replace my supply of store bought dishcloths. My decision was to make my own using cotton yarn in my stash and free patterns on the Internet. As I began looking for patterns I discovered a "new to me" world of knitting and crocheting. I was totally fascinated by the beauty and variety of dish and wash cloths that were and are available. The most wonderful part was that most of them were free. I was so excited at my discovery that I wanted to share it with everyone. Listing links on a blog seemed to be the best way of doing so. As time passed this became my way of returning to the online fiber community part of what I had received from it over the years.

L:  Would you give us an estimate of how many pattern links you've amassed so far?

N:  I estimate there are links to about 500-600 patterns.

L:  Did you have any specific goals in mind when you began?

N:  The primary goal I originally had was to list all of the free dish and wash cloth patterns I could find on the Internet for the fun of doing so. I also wanted to share my exciting discovery with others.

L:  Have those goals changed as you've progressed?

N:  This is a difficult question. My goals have changed a bit although the original goal of listing links to as many free patterns for dish and wash cloths remains the same. I have chosen to expand the scope of the site to include links to other kitchen items and to some bath related items. A few months after the site began, I realized that it could be a way of returning to the fiber arts community part of what it has provided me over the years.

L:  How long have you been at it and what keeps you motivated to continue?

N:  I have been doing this for a few months less than six years. My motivation to continue is three fold. My primary motivation is that searching for and finding patterns is fun. Adding them to my site is the next step in that process. The second motivating factor is my commitment to make a contribution to the fiber arts community by providing a resource for people to find kitchen and bath related patterns easily. Last, but not least, I have learned that there is an amazing group of men and women all over the world who give their time, energy, and talents to design and make items for others. By providing links to free patterns my site also promotes the work of many designers.

L:  How much maintenance is required to keep your site running?

N:  The site is relatively easy to maintain. Most of the reason for that is because it is hosted on WordPress.com. In my opinion it is the perfect match for my personality because while it is intuitive to use it is also very logical and organized.

L:  How many hours per week do you put in?

N:  On average I would say I spend about six to eight hours a week on the site. When I decide to do a major update, such as the one I am now doing, I easily spend twenty-four to thirty hours a week on it. I am fortunate to have a very supportive family who understand my need and desire to work on the site.

L:  Do you receive any help or is maintenance pretty much a one woman show?

N:  This is definitely a one woman show. I do my own research and site maintenance. My husband and son serve as editors and content advisers at times.

L:  I love that the look is very clean, simple, uncluttered. Is that how you tend to work when you're crafting?

N:  Thank you for the compliment. Yes, that is how I tend to work when I am crafting. The majority of my knitting and crocheting time is done at the kitchen table or in the computer/craft room. In order for me to concentrate and work efficiently those areas have to be uncluttered. My immediate work area does appear cluttered at times, but I try to keep it so I can reach what I want without looking for it.

L:  How do you go about finding all the great patterns you link? Do you seek them out? Do they find their way to you somehow?

N:  When the site first began, I used a variety of search engines and spent countless hours doing research to find them. That is still my favorite method to find patterns although it has changed a bit over the years. I now have a list of sites to periodically check for new additions. There is one designer who sends me an email when she adds a pattern to her site. Others know that I visit their sites and add links to their patterns as I find them. As the member of some online groups and Ravelry, I keep my eyes and ears open for patterns that might not be listed on my site.

L:  Let's say, in an average month, how many hits does the site get?

N:  Thank you for asking this question. It is averaging a little more than fifty-three thousand hits per month.

L:  I really like that the site is "bi-craftual," both knit and crochet. Are you as well?

N:  Yes! I am definitely be craftual. I fell in love with the art of crochet when I was six years old. Much to my dismay I had to wait to learn to do it until I was twelve or thirteen. I learned to knit when I was eight or nine. I enjoy them both and do not have a favorite.

L:  Do you have a particular type of pattern you prefer to make?

N:  My favorite dishcloths are knitted ones. I don't have much strength in my upper body and it is easier for me to squeeze the excess water from knitted cloths. One favorite kitchen item in my house is crocheted hot pads and table mats. We use an assortment of knitted and crocheted dishcloths as coasters for cups and bowls.

L:  Do you have favorite stitches?

N:  Not really. I do enjoy using a variety of stitches when knitting or crocheting.

L:  I think I've taken enough of your time, but is there anything else you'd like to share with my readers?

N:  There are a couple of things I would like to add. The first one is that if you have a link to a pattern you would like to see added to my site, please feel free to contact me by way of the Contact Page on my site. Due to my work schedule it might take a day or two for me to respond.

L:  Anything I've overlooked that you'd like to tell them?

N:  I cannot think of anything. Thank you for taking the time to interview me. It was a pleasure.

Thank you, Norma, so much for sharing your time and your thoughts with us. I wish you much continued success with the site.

Happy Knitting and Crocheting everyone!

Change-Up, Just for Fun. . .Free Crochet Pattern

I like playing with new ideas that incorporate environmental responsibility with crochet, or crafting in general for that matter.  That's why I started dabbling with scrubby sacks or soap sacks a while back.  Call them what you will, if you haven't encountered them before, I'll give you a brief explanation.  Pretty much, a scrubby sack is something my brother and I though WE invented in the tub when we were kids.  We took our washcloths, wrapped them around our favorite bar of soap, and used the whole package to scrub us clean.  Boy, did we think we were brilliant...LOL  Fast forward to last winter when I started surfing the web for cute little quickie projects to keep my itchy fingers busy during the cooler months so I wouldn't start yet another afghan.  I came across what many crocheters called scrubby sacks which took our "invention" one step further.  It's simply a cute pouch crocheted in an hour or two that's closed with a simple drawstring.  It's large enough to hold a full sized bar of soap, but my favorite part is that it's a great way to collect all those soap scraps sitting at the bottom of your soap dish so they're large enough to handle.  I'm cheap; I like to use every little bit of that soap, especially since I use a more pricey brand for my sensitive skin.

An added bonus to this pattern is that it's pretty (you like how I toot my own horn there?) so wrap a small gift in tissue, drop it in the sack, and your cute crochet project turns into a reusable gift bag!  Think about it:  wouldn't a gourmet bar of soap make a great grab gift when given inside a delightful little pouch?  Anyhow, I'm giving you the simple, round pattern here.  I have a couple of oval variations available in my Etsy and Ravelry shops as a set bundled with the pdf version of this one.

I have but one request if you make this pattern:  please come back and leave a comment to let me know how you felt about the instruction.  The oval patterns were tested extensively, but this one was typed up a while ago and not really well tested.  (I couldn't decide exactly what to do with it.)  Just as with any of my patterns I would love to see your finished projects.  I'd like to post a collection of photos some time before Thanksgiving, (maybe even ON Thanksgiving) to show off readers' handiwork.

As always, Happy Crocheting!

Round X-Stitch Pouch

Crochet Pattern

by Laurie Laliberte, Big Girl Jewelry & More

Special stitch used:  X-stitch -- skip next st, work dc in next st, work dc in previously skipped st around the dc you just made
To begin a round of X-stitch, skip the first 2 sts, work dc in next st, work dc in 2nd previously skipped st around the dc you just made

To end a round of X-stitch, work your last dc around the beginning ch3 of the round in the 1st skipped stitch.

Supplies Needed:

2 oz (95 yds) worsted weight cotton yarn (example was made using less than 1 ball Lily Sugar 'n Cream)

size H-8 (5.0 mm) crochet hook

size J-10 (6.0 mm) crochet hook (optional)

stitch markers or scrap yarn (optional)

yarn needle or smaller hook for weaving in ends

All instructions use American terminology and standard abbreviations

with smaller hook ch4, join w/sl st in 1st ch to form a loop

Round 1:  ch4 (counts as dc, ch1), [dc, ch1] 8 times, join in 3rd ch of ch4 (9 dc, 9 ch1 sp)

Round 2:  sl st into ch1 sp, [ch 4 (counts as dc, ch1), dc, ch1] all in same ch1 sp, join in 3rd ch of beg ch4 (18 dc, 18 ch1 sp)

Round 3:  sl st into ch1 cp, ch5 (counts as dc, ch2), [dc, ch2] in each ch1 sp around, join in 3rd ch of beg ch5 (18 dc, 18 ch2 sp)

Round 4:  ch1, sc in same st as joining, 2 sc in ch2 sp, [sc in next dc, 2sc in next ch2 sp] around, join in 1st sc (54 sc) 

Round 5:  ch3, X-stitch around (27 X-sts)

Round 6:  ch1, sc in each st around, join in 1st sc (54 sc)

Round 7:  ch4 (counts as dc, ch1), [sk next st, dc in next st, ch1] around, join in 3rd ch of beg ch4 (27 dc, 27 ch1 sp)

Round 8:  sl st into ch1 sp, ch4 (counts as dc, ch1), [dc, ch1] in each ch1 sp around, join in 3rd ch of beg ch4 (27 dc, 27 ch1 sp)

Round 9:  repeat Round 8

Round 10:  ch1, sc in each st and ch1 sp around, join in 1st sc (54 sc)

Round 11:  ch3, X-stitch around (27 X-sts)

Round 12:  ch1, sc in each st around, join in 1st sc (54 sc)

Round 13:  ch4 (counts as dc, ch1), [sk next st, dc in next st, ch1] around, join in 3rd ch of beg ch4 (27 dc, 27 ch1 sp)

Round 14:  sl st into ch1 sp, ch4 (counts as dc, ch1), [dc, ch1] in each ch1 sp around, join in 3rd ch of beg ch4 (27 dc, 27 ch1 sp)

Round 15:  repeat Round 14

Round 16:  ch1, sc in each dc and ch1 sp around, join in 1st sc, fo (54 sc)

Drawstring:

with larger hook ch 70, fo leaving a 1-2" tail at each end, Separate the strands of the yarn to form mini tassels.  Weave the drawstring through desired row of dc, ch1 spaces.

About my work:

Any pattern I design and post is my property.  Please do not duplicate my patterns for any reason especially to sell.  Instead, please link to my blog (http://biggirljewelry.blogspot.com/) or to the page where you found the pattern when referencing one of my patterns.

You are more than welcome to offer finished products made from my patterns for sale.  I see no reason why you should not profit from your hard work.  However, I'd really appreciate it if you gave me credit for the design; please reference my blog or the pattern page.

If you do make any of my patterns I'd love to see your finished items; please take a moment to email pictures to me.

If you are not interested in making your own pieces, I occasionally offer finished items in my shops.  I also welcome special orders, so email me and let's work together.

BigGirlJewelry@yahoo.com

I would love to see your finished projects!  Please send me photos.  With your permission, I will post them on 

Ravelry http://www.ravelry.com/designers/laurie-laliberte/patterns 

and/or Etsy http://www.etsy.com/shop/BigGirlJewelry 

and/or my blog http://biggirljewelry.blogspot.com/ .

Free Crochet Pattern: Too Hot to Handle

Here it is, folks!  This is the third, but probably not the final, installment in the Big Girl Kitchen line.  Megan of Crochet Every Day fame suggested a scarf and, of course I thought, "table scarf or neck scarf?"  Who knows what I'll come up with next?  There are so many ideas rolling around in my brain these days that my bucket list  is going to keep me busy typing and crocheting for the next 100 years!  (Let's hope these aching fingers can keep up.)  Truth be told, I've grown very fond of this pattern and I'm not ready to walk away from it yet.  I am considering some ideas for basic table linens (placemats, coasters, and a runner) that use the now familiar repeat from all the Big Girl patterns.  If you have a request of any kind, please post a comment here and I'll add it to the file (no, not the round file!).  Anyhow, thank you one and all for stopping by and for making my blog such a great place for me to hang out.  I hope you like it (the blog and the pattern) as much as I do.  Happy hooking!

About my work:

Any pattern I design and post is my property.  Please do not duplicate my patterns for any reason especially to sell.  Instead, please link to my blog (http://laurielaliberte.blogspot.com/ ) or to the pattern page when referencing one of my patterns.

You are more than welcome to offer finished products made from my patterns for sale.  I see no reason why you should not profit from your hard work.  However, I'd really appreciate it if you gave me credit for the design; please reference my blog or the pattern page.

If you do make any of my patterns I'd love to see your finished items; please feel free to email pictures to me.

If you are not interested in making your own pieces, I occasionally offer finished items in my shops on Etsy and Bonanzle.  I also welcome special orders, so email me and let's work together.

BigGirlJewelry@yahoo.com

Big Girl Pot Holder/Hot Pad 

All instructions use American terminology and standard abbreviations.

Supplies needed:

about 2 oz. or one ball of worsted weight cotton yarn

size I-9 (5.5 mm) crochet hook

smaller hook or yarn needle for weaving in ends

stitch marker or length of scrap yarn (optional)

Flat side

ch28

Row 1:  sc in 2nd ch from hook, [ch1, sk next ch, sc in next ch] across, turn (27 sts)

Row 2:  ch1, sc in 1st sc, [sc in ch1 sp, ch1, sk next sc] across, sc in last 2 sc, turn (27 sts)

Row 3:  ch1, sc in 1st sc, [ch1, sk next sc, sc in ch1 sp] across, ending with your last sc in last sc of previous row, turn (27 sts)

Rows 4-27:  rep Rows 2-3 ending with a Row 3, fo and set aside

Decorated Side

ch28

Row 1:  sc in 2nd ch from hook, [ch1, sk next ch, sc in next ch] across, turn (27 sts)

Row 2:  ch1, sc in 1st sc, [sc in ch1 sp, ch1, sk next sc] across, sc in last 2 sc, turn (27 sts)

Row 3:  ch1, sc in 1st sc, [ch1, sk next sc, sc in ch1 sp] across, ending with your last sc in last sc of previous row, turn (27 sts)

Rows 4-7:  [repeat Rows 2-3] twice

Row 8:  ch1, sc in each sc and ch1 sp across, turn (27 sts)

Row 9:  ch1, working in back loops only sc in each st across, turn (27 sts)

Row 10:  ch1, working in front loops only sc in each st across, turn (27 sts)

Row 11:  repeat Row 9

Row 12:  ch1, working in front loops only sc in 1st st, [dc in next st, sc in next st] repeat to end, turn (27 sts)

Row 13:  ch1, working in back loops only dc in 1st st, [sc in next st, dc in next st] repeat to end, turn (27 sts)

Rows 14-16:  repeat Rows 12-13 ending with a Row 12

Row 17:  ch1, working in back loops only sc in each st across, turn (27 sts)

Row 18:  ch1, working in front loops only sc in each st across, turn (27 sts)

Rows 19-20:  repeat Rows 17-18

Row 21:  ch1, sc in 1st st, [ch1, sk next st, sc in next st] repeat to end, turn (27 sts)

Rows 22-27:  [repeat Rows 2-3] 3 times

do not turn or finish off

Finishing Round

Turn, ch1, holding wrong sides of 2 finished pieces together, sc in each st around working 3sc at each corner, join w/sl st in 1st sc, fo, weave in ends

Guide for optional hanging loop

Choose where you would like to place the hanging loop.  You can place it anywhere you want.  Most common placement would be in a corner or at the center of one side.

As you work the Finishing Round, stop between 2 stitches, ch10, join w/sl st to last sc worked, sl st in each ch of the ch10, join again w/sl st, continue working sc where you left off.

I would love to see your finished project!  Please send me photos so I may post them on my blog.

You've Waited So Patiently: Free Crochet Pattern

When I posted the free pattern for the Big Girl Dish Scrubby last month I really didn't expect it to be such a hit.  To date, it has received 106 hearts and it's in 26 queues!  More than that, it's brought some very positive attention to my other patterns and I can now support my yarn habit without tapping into an already too tight budget.  So, rather than simply say thank you to the many folks who had their crochet hooks in helping me do this, I offer a gesture of thanks:

A short while ago I promised matching pieces and I've finally set down to keep that promise.  So, with no further ado, I offer the Free Big Girl Kitchen Towel.....and a tease.  The tease is a work in progress and will be my next free pattern offered here.  You'll see it in a couple of the pics in this post.

All instructions use American terminology and standard abbreviations.

Supplies Needed:

about 5-6 oz. of worsted weight cotton yarn (that's about 3 balls of Peaches n Creme or Lily Sugar n Cream)

size I-9 (5.5 mm) crochet hook

one button about 1 1/4" in diameter

yarn needle and/or traditional sewing needle for attaching button and weaving in ends

stitch markers or scraps of yarn for row counting (optional)

Special Stitches Used:

single crochet decrease (sc dec) -- insert hook into both loops of first stitch being worked, yo, pull up a loop, insert hook into both loops of next stitch, yo, pull up a loop, yo, draw through all 3 loops on hook

double triple crochet (dtrc) -- yo 3 times, insert hook into next st, pull up a loop, [yo, pull through 2 loops] 4 times

ch 48

Row 1:  sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch to end, turn (47 sc)

Row 2:  ch1, sc in 1st sc, [ch1, sk next sc, sc in next sc] rep to end, turn (47 sts)

Row 3:  ch1, sc in 1st sc and 1st ch1 sp, [ch1, sk next sc, sc in next ch1 sp] rep to end, sc in last st, turn (47 sts)

Row 4:  ch1, sc in 1st sc, [ch1, sk next sc, sc in next ch1 sp] rep across ending w/ sc in last sc, turn (47 sts)

Row 5:  rep Row 3

Row 6:  ch1, sc in 1st sc and in each sc and ch1 sp across, turn (47 sc)

Row 7:  ch1, working in back loops only sc in each st across, turn (47 sc)

Row 8:  ch1, working in front loops only sc in each st across, turn (47 sc)

Row 9:  rep Row 7

Row 10:  ch1, working in front loops only sc in 1st sc, [dc in next st, sc in next st] rep to end, turn (47 sts)

Row 11:  ch1, working in back loops only sc in 1st sc, [sc in next dc, dc in next sc] rep across ending w/sc in last sc, turn (47 sts)

Row 12:  ch1, working in front loops only sc in 1st sc, [dc in next sc, sc in next dc] rep across ending w/sc in last sc, turn (47 sts)

Rows 13-14:  rep Rows 11-12

Row 15:  ch1, working in back loops only sc in each st across, turn (47 sc)

Row 16:  ch1, working in front loops only sc in each st across, turn (47 sc)

Rows 17-18:  rep Rows 15-16

Row 19:  ch1, sc in 1st sc, [ch1, sk next sc, sc in next sc] rep to end, turn (47 sts)

Row 20:  ch1, sc in 1st sc and 1st ch1 sp, [ch1, sk next sc, sc in next ch1 sp] rep to end, sc in last st, turn (47 sts)

Row 21:  ch1, sc in 1st sc, [ch1, sk next sc, sc in next ch1 sp] rep across ending w/ sc in last sc, turn (47 sts)

Rows 22-59:  rep Rows 20-21

Row 60:  ch1, sc in each sc and ch1 sp across, turn (47 sc)

Row 61:  ch1, sc dec 12 times, sc in next st, sc dec 11 times, turn (24 sts)

Row 62:  ch1, sc dec 12 times, turn (12 sts)

Row 63:  ch1, sc dec 6 times, turn (6 sts)

Row 64:  ch1, sc in each st across, turn (6 sts)

Rows 65-81:  repeat Row 64

Note:  Before proceeding, you may wish to fit your hanging loop to the place where you'd like it to hang.  If worked as instructed it will fit the average drawer pull or oven door handle.  If you need to add length simply continue repeating Row 64 as necessary.

Row 82:  ch3 (counts as dc), trc in next st, dtrc in next 2 sts, trc in next st, dc in next st, turn (6 sts)

Note:  The space between the two dtrc is your buttonhole.

Row 83:  ch1, sc in each of 1st 2 sts, 2sc in each of next 2 sts, sc in each of next 2 sts

Finishing Round:  beginning with last stitch in which you worked, sc around working 3 sc in corners and stopping at Row 82, join w/sl st in 1st sc of Row 83, fo, weave in ends

Attaching button:  Fold end of narrow strip and attach button at desired position making sure that the hanging loop made by this fold allows enough room for you to hang your towel where you wish to hang it.  Take care to attach the button loosely enough that there is sufficient space behind it for the thickness of your fabric.

 

Note:  This pattern has not been tested.  I made it; I wrote it; I'm posting it; done.  If you find any mistakes or have suggestions for clarification, please email me or leave a comment here (preferred).

About my work:


Any pattern I design and post here is my property. Please do not duplicate my patterns for any reason especially to sell. Instead, please link to my blog or to the pattern page when referencing one of my patterns.

You are more than welcome to offer finished items made from my patterns for sale. I see no reason why you should not profit from your hard work. However, I'd really appreciate it if you gave me credit for the design; please reference my blog or the pattern page.

If you do make any of my patterns, I'd love to see your finished items; please feel free to email pictures to me.

If you are not interested in making your own pieces, I occasionally offer finished items in my shops on Etsy and Bonanzle. I also welcome special orders, so email me and let's work together.

BigGirlJewelry@yahoo.com

Free Crochet Pattern: Big Girl Dish Scrubby

This pattern was inspired by my closest friend. She has three children (whom I adore) and seems to be constantly washing dishes. She uses kitchen sponges with one scrubby side for just about all of her kitchen cleaning. There are always two close at hand, one for washing dishes and one for wiping down surfaces. Following her example, I've adopted this practice.

The problem with these sponges is that they don't last very long. Once the "dish" sponge begins to wear, she throws out the "surface" sponge and replaces it with the old "dish" sponge. This practice serves two purposes: it saves her some money on sponges and it saves a bit of space in a landfill. Essentially she's throwing out one sponge when she could be throwing out two.

My issue is that cleaning with sponges doesn't always strike me as the most sanitary way of dealing with daily cleanup. Although we both pop the sponges in the microwave to kill whatever may be lurking, I still wonder what may be trapped in those sponges. Another concern is all those sponges. They're cheap and synthetic which means they don't decompose very quickly when they finally do reach the landfill.

That said, I offer you my kitchen scrubbie made of 100% cotton left over from another project.  You can throw it in the washer and dryer.  I plan to make enough for every day of the week and an extra just in case.

If you're not inclined to make one yourself, contact me.  I may choose to list them in my Etsy and/or Bonanzle shops. 

All instructions are in American crochet terms. I used worsted weight cotton and size 10 crochet cotton held together to make the example which measures about 4" x 5" x 3/8". This pattern has not been tested, so I welcome comments and questions. Please leave them here on this post so others can benefit from the answers as well.

You will need:

about 1 oz. worsted weight cotton yarn

equal length of size 10 crochet cotton

4.0 mm (size G-6) crochet hook

darning/yarn needle or smaller sized hook for weaving in ends

Design Note:  Most of this pattern is crocheted in rounds which is why the instructions specify "Row 1" but "Round 2."  You're working much of the pattern from the inside of the round, essentially making a tube that you will close with the last row (hence the instruction to work in the "inner loop only").  [Many thanks to my Ravelry pals for pointing out confusion with this technique.]

Ch 21

Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch to end, turn (20 sc)

Round 2: ch1, sc in back loop only to end of row, turn and sc in remaining loops of same row, join in inner loop only of 1st sc (40 sc)

Round 3: ch1, sc in inner loop only around, join in inner loop only of 1st sc

Round 4: repeat round 3

Round 5: ch1, *sc in inner loop only of sc, dc in inner loop only of next sc** repeat from * to ** to end, join in inner loop only of 1st sc (40 st)

Round 6: ch1, *dc in inner loop only of sc, sc in inner loop only of dc** repeat from * to ** to end, join in inner loop only of 1st dc (40 st)

Note: That is not a typo. This row is begun with a ch1 not a ch3.

Round 7: ch1, *sc in inner loop only of dc, dc in inner loop only of next sc** repeat from * to ** to end, join in inner loop only of 1st sc (40 st)

Rounds 8 - 9: repeat rounds 6 - 7

Round 10: ch1, sc in inner loop only around, join in 1st sc (40 sc)

Rounds 11 - 12: repeat round 10

Row 13: flatten piece, ch1, holding front and back sides together sc in all 4 loops of 1st and 40th sc, continue across to end, fo (20 sc)

Weave in ends.
Note: I weave the ends in for about 1" then leave a tail measuring about 2" inside the finished piece.

About my work

Any pattern I design and post here is my property. Please do not duplicate my patterns for any reason especially to sell. Instead, please link to my blog or to the pattern page when referencing one of my patterns.

You are more than welcome to offer finished items made from my patterns for sale. I see no reason why you should not profit from your hard work. However, I’d really appreciate it if you gave me credit for the design; please reference my blog or the pattern page.

If you do make any of my patterns, I’d love to see your finished items; please feel free to email pictures to me.

If you are not interested in making your own pieces, I occasionally offer finished items in my shops on Etsy and Bonanzle. I also welcome special orders, so email me and let’s work together.

BigGirlJewelry@yahoo.com

Added 10/17/14: I receive numerous questions regarding my patterns and I have one request for my readers. PLEASE, if you have a question, post it in the comments of the pattern to which it pertains, either here on the blog, or on Ravelry. That way, your questions and my answers are public and can benefit other crocheters. Sending me private emails doesn't do as much good. Thank you!

Happy Crocheting!

Pattern Testing and Comedy Don't Mix

I've recently become hooked on ravelry.com (yeah, I couldn't resist) which is where I stumbled upon an extremely talented designer by the name of Donna Mason-Svara aka SmoothFox. Her blog and Etsy and Ravelry shops are packed with gorgeous patterns, mostly for motif squares. Her patterns are beautiful and versatile....Can you tell I'm a fan? I like to crochet motif squares to use as luxury washcloths for gift baskets, so I'm always on the lookout for squares that look great on their own and don't need to be part of a larger piece. That said, I must have about 200 total patterns saved on my hard drive and at least as many bookmarks, yet I continue to search for new and exciting items to crochet.

I began following Donna's blog shortly after I began writing this one. When I saw she was looking for testers for her newest pattern, I jumped at the chance to be one of them. The picture of her finished piece tugged at my heart. It was one of those projects I didn't just need to do; I needed to do it NOW! Little did I know....

As an experienced crocheter, I'm used to simply working through patterns at a breakneck pace. If there's a mistake in the pattern that I catch, I usually make a note on the pattern page (if I've even bothered to print the pattern) in case I ever make it again, then it's forgotten; I move on. When there's someone counting on you to edit a pattern, you must be more diligent. You're not just throwing together a quick project; you're helping someone fine tune their hard work.

Don't get me wrong, I found my experience testing Donna's two newest patterns to be invaluable as well as rewarding. I decided to offer my services (read that I would have BEGGED to test this pattern) because I had become quite a fan very quickly.

*Donna's patterns may be found on her blog: http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/ and in her Etsy shop http://www.etsy.com/shop/SmoothFox*

I was smart about the first pattern I worked for her; I started in a quiet spot with no distractions because she warned that she had written the pattern "late one night" and she expected it may contain a lot of errors. Before I even began, I received another email with corrections for the first three rows. Okay, weeeeeelllll, we're off!

Because acrylic can be quicker and easier to work with than cotton, I opted to use an inexpensive, plain, white, worsted weight acrylic (Caron One Pound) so I could focus on the pattern rather than dealing with the friction and splitting sometimes associated with cotton yarns. Sure enough, there were several errors to be corrected, one of which was a simple omission that threw off an entire round. All in all, with interruptions and stretch breaks, It took me about four or five hours to complete one 12" square.

I was diligent about taking notes through the process so I wouldn't miss any subtleties that may not have affected me, but might throw off a newbie. I emailed her a few times as I crocheted and then when I finished so she'd have my input and my thoughts would be fresh. While I took my duty seriously, let's be real; it's just yarn. We may not be saving lives, but we may as well get it right.

The next day, I opened all the shades to let some light into the dining room and took a few shots of my finished project. I must say I was pretty darn proud of myself because it looked as good as Donna's original did. It also surprised me that the white photographed so well. I was able to get a nice clear shot in just daylight. Of course, being the Queen of Dumb Mistakes, I sent the email saying "look what I did!" without first attaching the photos..... DUH!

I wasn't really sure what I would do with the finished piece. There were quite a few possibilities that I toyed with including just taking it apart and reusing the yarn. In fact, the first photos I sent to Donna showed a loop still in the end of the square because I hadn't finished off the last row and woven in the end. It wasn't until Donna emailed me asking for a picture with the end hidden that I decided I definitely wanted to keep the square and expand on the project.

*Possible ideas for expanding on this square included:

-making 11 more and turning it into an afghan

-making 4 or 5 more and turning it into a scarf

-making 11 more different squares and making a sampler afghan*

A day later, I set to making the square one more time using the most recently revised version of the pattern that I received that morning from Donna. I really wanted to make this one in cotton because I've been using cotton almost exclusively lately and I saw so much potential for color in this pattern. I wasn't sure how much yarn I'd need for the cotton version and I liked the idea of mixing neutrals, so I pulled out a new ball of Soft Ecru and a new ball of Terra Firma (a variegated brown) by Lily Sugar 'n Cream. I was able to breeze through this one in just about 1 1/2 hours with no problems at all and not much left of those two balls of yarn. I loved the finished product; it turned out better than I expected. I was so excited to send the photo of it to Donna and even more excited to see it posted in her blog. (You'll find more of the finished squares and the free pattern here: http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/2010/07/testers-pictures-of-foxs-amethyst.html)

And then it happened (queue the ominous music): Donna posted a request for testers again, this time for her "Ripple Star Square." Uh, oh. You guessed it... Thankfully, Donna still needed testers when I contacted her. The center star looked more like a snowflake, I thought, so I wanted to accentuate that point by doing the center star in white and surrounding it in rounds of red, white, and hot green.

I set about crocheting in my more standard way: butt on the sofa, laptop on the coffee table with the pattern on screen, and the TV on. This turned out to be a mistake for several reasons. First, my friend and I started watching Comedy Central at about 8:30 p.m. Jeff Dunham was on (I ADORE Jeff Dunham). Turned out they were having some sort of stand-up marathon for the holiday weekend. Second, I read through the pattern and THOUGHT I was following it to the letter, but I kept stopping to laugh, so I didn't make very good time. Third, I was wired on caffeine and determined to finish this block before I went to bed. I finished shortly after 1:00 a.m.

Except for a minor miscount of stitches, I found no mistakes in the pattern. (I did, by the way, reread it after I finished because I knew I'd been somewhat distracted as I worked.) I made one color change as I crocheted. If you look at the photo of my finished square, you'll see that the last round is white. Originally this was to be red, but I got about half way around and decided red/green/red made the square look too much like a man's tube sock, so I started at the next corner with white to see which I preferred. Needless to say, I ended up ripping out the red and finishing in white. In hindsight, the only thing I would change about the color choices is that I would use red where I used green and vice versa. I think the center star/snowflake would pop more if surrounded by red.

*When I finished making the center motif, I laid it out and thought it would make a great pot holder, so that may be my next project.*

I emailed photos of the finished square to Donna this morning who was concerned, after examining those pictures, that she'd made a mistake in the instructions. You see, I misread the instructions and my long double crochets in row 6 aren't long enough. Darn you, Jeff Dunham and Peanut! Darn you Larry the Cable Guy! Oh well, as I said before, we're not saving lives here; it's just yarn.