tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34606472047248291312024-03-06T07:02:17.222+00:00Dotty DoilyAnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.comBlogger67125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-19903211556077105342015-06-30T10:35:00.003+01:002015-06-30T10:35:58.793+01:00Wedding decorations guest blog<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGmfPSNKDgZHBpQT5PqvycQ3zcWBBEfNEEjCFtoFfA4da5ic7_gmZKpQXwQxrzEPIWvEtApTyLUn1CXjTjDpgdpigR_4NFnmJlizVEQ2lTs9n7so_AlkbkOr51S0SfuGjucaSrz0bpL9M/s1600/IMG_9477.JPG.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGmfPSNKDgZHBpQT5PqvycQ3zcWBBEfNEEjCFtoFfA4da5ic7_gmZKpQXwQxrzEPIWvEtApTyLUn1CXjTjDpgdpigR_4NFnmJlizVEQ2lTs9n7so_AlkbkOr51S0SfuGjucaSrz0bpL9M/s640/IMG_9477.JPG.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I was asked because of my impending nuptials to write a guest post for the <a href="http://ideas.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/" target="_blank">Stitch Craft Create blog</a>. Let me tell you it was quite the cathartic outpouring of stress and I am grateful for the opportunity!<br />
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I am still slogging away with my various wedding makes and have hardly had time to write or even photograph them. There are a few snaps here and there on <a href="https://instagram.com/dottydoily/" target="_blank">instagram</a> and theres a treasure trove of ideas on my <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/dottydoily/wedding-theme/" target="_blank">pinterest board</a> but I have not been able to blog for ages and I just can't wait now to get married and let normal service resume!<br />
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Anyway for those of you getting married soon and looking for a bit of inspiration and reassurance that it is ok to do it yourself and have it your own way, head over to the <a href="http://ideas.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/" target="_blank">Stitch Craft Create blog</a> now for a few insights into the crazed mind of a soon-to-be-wed crafter!<br />
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DD xAnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-40882168801800527912015-05-10T17:51:00.002+01:002015-05-10T17:51:24.720+01:00Bunting Stash Busting!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHpyXZgB6rVAHFzyJfFIwQ6RNJrdc_U7vsVlDQ-0805sh_iyNOMMNayS4ctjeW1FeuO03iSCeqL0XXHIyo518lPWWWkZgN3YXgWsRZKCg346xjc8rKriMWm_AF5_bVE5UUmZ0IyNTOVk/s1600/Photo+10-05-2015+17+01+16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHpyXZgB6rVAHFzyJfFIwQ6RNJrdc_U7vsVlDQ-0805sh_iyNOMMNayS4ctjeW1FeuO03iSCeqL0XXHIyo518lPWWWkZgN3YXgWsRZKCg346xjc8rKriMWm_AF5_bVE5UUmZ0IyNTOVk/s640/Photo+10-05-2015+17+01+16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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As many of you already know I am tying the knot in August so a lot of my time this year has been devoted to preparing for that. I now have my dress organised, catering booked, music sorted and a whole host of other bits are pulling together nicely but I have not spent much time on the pretty things which will give the event a bit of 'ahhhh' factor.</div>
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So I have started work on some fabric bunting using scraps of fabric from my stash and my trusty pinking shears!</div>
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My theme is hessian and lace - but with a colour injection! I am having bright, British Summertime flowers for my bouquet and the table decorations, and will carry the floral brights through to my little flower girl dresses (four floral print dresses of different colours), the cake, and the decor so that there is a colourful and happy theme to the day, without it all getting overly coordinated as that is just not me!</div>
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These floral triangles will be mixed up with some in rough hessian and others in lacy fabrics to create my bunting.</div>
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When I worked out what size to make the triangles I did a bit of cutting to see what size of triangle I liked best and what would make the best of the fat quarters and scraps I had hanging around. I ended up with this template and I thought you may find it useful for creating that perfectly sized bunting triangle! Click on the image to get a free download of the template and print it out to use. </div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2KnWsXivPV6LVlYVUcxdVhTTkE/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSuCTigspkAZzMknaNyPdaPrOGzUUAVwgJ2iXW1ebyadixiObPTn2dmCNc1Z-1Y1e9OeQr4j8yMwyKgL7CmuC1ezNQ6Ae9FrwXBozzZndzwmsgU16GsEGvewj4Iwr4kE9ndLUO3XwUKds/s640/bunting.jpg" width="452" /></a><span id="goog_2126489818"></span><span id="goog_2126489819"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a></div>
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There is a little twist to this tale. I'm on a shoestring budget for my event and will use every scrap of fabric I can find or recycle. Now I know there are incredibly worthy charities out there, my wedding not being one of them! So if you can put your fabric to better use for them I would much rather you did just that, but if you happen to have any fabric lying around of a floral or lacy variety and you would like to see it appear in my wedding bunting, not having any other use for it, I would love for you to send me an email or comment and I will let you have a postal address to send them to so that I can make them into flags! If you want to cut them to size to save weight and postage that is fine. I appreciate anything you can send.</div>
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I'm thinking that once it is done and I have used it I could pop a post on showing how it looks. That way if anyone has an event they could use it at down the line I could lend it out perhaps, paying it forward that way?! Just an idea really but there is something lovely about the idea of this happy bunting made from sad little fabric scraps which would never have had a chance at life otherwise!</div>
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One length of bunting I have been able to complete was made from crochet squares which I made ages ago, intending to cover a chair with them. I got rid of the chair rather than covering it so I had a rhino bucket full of squares! </div>
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To bring the colourful squares into my theme I crocheted them into a chain of jute twine which I had picked up at yarndale a few years back. It worked a treat I think and here is the result! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbkrKucFDsWJv6e0u0BtaoOZGlDL4Wozlw8EyjkbrgQDA626ZMOfdR0TsssWul2p8PEAQFQ7bX5eDjiDAtE2jBSc-65xP4usqq3lhDp_8hhRtmf9WuwoSoPJpl0coxH7agYzK0_FmwShY/s1600/Photo+22-04-2015+21+34+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbkrKucFDsWJv6e0u0BtaoOZGlDL4Wozlw8EyjkbrgQDA626ZMOfdR0TsssWul2p8PEAQFQ7bX5eDjiDAtE2jBSc-65xP4usqq3lhDp_8hhRtmf9WuwoSoPJpl0coxH7agYzK0_FmwShY/s640/Photo+22-04-2015+21+34+06.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">This is a small section of it strung out. I love the way the light shines through the colours! I ended up with just over 17 metres of bunting which sounds like a lot but won't amount to much in the face of the walls I need to cover! So time to destash the fabric!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvD6ulOz5RhqoFcv4lQFh_A_ub2YZJakO-V__iGeFE60Inoncss9DYL590kmt9bajoxPO7SezWL042giCmtW60FxVC_PuWQp1QS1ZOoOfJb6s49toPwe7b7YOaFmUhs1ZTGct8_F0H1qg/s1600/Photo+23-04-2015+15+18+08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvD6ulOz5RhqoFcv4lQFh_A_ub2YZJakO-V__iGeFE60Inoncss9DYL590kmt9bajoxPO7SezWL042giCmtW60FxVC_PuWQp1QS1ZOoOfJb6s49toPwe7b7YOaFmUhs1ZTGct8_F0H1qg/s640/Photo+23-04-2015+15+18+08.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-51015292049180598532015-02-28T17:37:00.001+00:002015-02-28T17:37:32.936+00:00Hooked on Hearts // Wedding plans<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I don't know about you lot, but for me, February has been absolutely chocca!</div>
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Amongst other things I've travelled around the country art directing photo shoots for work, designed a trade stand and attended the event to set up and style things, joined the gym, my new craft room furniture arrived and Darren put it together, more on that in another post - so excited to show you! Oh and we might have set our date for the Wedding, finally! </div>
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We were determined it would be this year we tied the knot even though through various reasons and no small amount of procrastination, we didn't decide on when and where until earlier this month! So now, having set the date - 08.08.15 - we are in a mad panic to get everything sorted.</div>
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I have been designing my wedding invites this week in between everything else! (Sneak peek here.) Today, we went up to the hall we are using for the wedding after party and measured the spaces, checked what facilities there are etc. We will keep everything crossed for good weather so we can make use of the nice lawn outside. We want to have a hog roast and a bit of a knees-up afterwards and have found a great company who provide a mobile bar and disco! Plans abound so there will no doubt be more of this madness appearing on the blog before the summer.</div>
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So it was with feelings of love and romance in my heart and wedding bells on my mind that I approached the latest blog hop project with <a href="http://ideas.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/" target="_blank">Stitch Craft Create</a>. They showed me an advance copy of this great new book they have coming into stock for March - Hooked! By Michelle, Cécile and Sylvie Delprat. It is available for <a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/hooked#402074" target="_blank">preorder now and with a free e-book</a> to get you started while you wait for the print book to arrive!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizLHzpmZd5_QEaTOfUpSGEXboinbrb8WUUJoxqO2OeImrOnPSG8dqMaZx0wBFXkeVLlGpTjeaWL1vPb1lGz0rwzDtJuHrLD0dVO8OY9azZY1NdIbwzlw4h6oxGhKvhUUhyphenhyphenIULWFXjqaSI/s1600/Photo+28-02-2015+08+47+45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizLHzpmZd5_QEaTOfUpSGEXboinbrb8WUUJoxqO2OeImrOnPSG8dqMaZx0wBFXkeVLlGpTjeaWL1vPb1lGz0rwzDtJuHrLD0dVO8OY9azZY1NdIbwzlw4h6oxGhKvhUUhyphenhyphenIULWFXjqaSI/s1600/Photo+28-02-2015+08+47+45.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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It is full of clever little motif designs and really appeals to the designer and creator in me as the motifs become little building blocks for other ideas or decorations to add as patches to other creations. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBuB3Q_Qd9oENefPHQIW1wLR_wqyqOHQrfu0Lxwwduyyz0p9HPPzWLotM6pTsrvFbWjmdapmz-Zp9398_yc18XGTNBSD6exQ4h3wEiXlRs8TTza-kUUC7p5tt66ptRhUWyDKo9IcHR3WY/s1600/Photo+28-02-2015+08+49+22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBuB3Q_Qd9oENefPHQIW1wLR_wqyqOHQrfu0Lxwwduyyz0p9HPPzWLotM6pTsrvFbWjmdapmz-Zp9398_yc18XGTNBSD6exQ4h3wEiXlRs8TTza-kUUC7p5tt66ptRhUWyDKo9IcHR3WY/s1600/Photo+28-02-2015+08+49+22.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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They can be made with any colours and by using a larger or smaller hook or yarn, the size range is great too. The patterns state quite small hook sizes and I think they are intended to use fine yarn such as sock yarn or cottons. I used my usual Double knit acrylic and a 4mm hook and got almost a coaster sized motif. I reckon with aran weight and a 5/6mm hook they would be big enough to use as such.</div>
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Of course, with all this talk of weddings and Valentine's day just done, I couldn't resist making the heart motifs in this candy pink. </div>
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The instructions were succinct and easy to follow and I really liked the way the book was divided so that the 'gallery' of motifs was all together at the front, leaving the instructions at the back to find once the design had been chosen. It keeps the inspiration separate from the instruction and I like that.</div>
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There are some stitch explanations along with UK/US conversion tables so I think most beginners would be able to tackle this book, possibly with a little help from the masses of youtube videos out there for stitch tutorials etc.</div>
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If you are the sort of crocheter who likes to create your own look but is not ready to design your own patterns, this book is for you. Even if you are a designer it is such fun it would be hard to resist! The lovely guys at Stitch Craft Create are running a competition to win a copy of Hooked! Along with a crochet goodie bag so get involved! <a href="http://ideas.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/crochet-motifs-competition/" target="_blank">Details can be found here.</a></div>
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So anyway, back to the invitation designing now, I must get them out in the post otherwise nobody will turn up in August! Back as soon as possible with more on wedding ideas and a craft room update - just wait until you see it! </div>
Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-82404433616547065092015-01-19T09:00:00.000+00:002015-01-19T13:15:50.763+00:00Shades of Spring Cushion - Thrifty January Blog HopHonestly! If it wasn't for another blog hop whipping me into action I would never post on my blog at the moment! Life has been busy, there has been barely time to pick up a hook let alone write about it but the lovely team at Stitch Craft Create have asked me to join in with their Thrify January blog hop and so 'Boing!' here I go again!<br />
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The theme for the Stitch Craft Create digital magazine this month is Thriftiness and upcycling after the overspending and excesses of the festive period. I read some great articles and projects in there such as knitted rug made from strips of fabric, updating a dress by adding a cute patch pocket from your fabric stash, a bag made from children's clothing and even one for us hooky types - a log cabin patchwork design cushion using those little bits and pieces of leftover yarn we can never bear to part with. I considered giving this one a go and embarked on a journey of discovery in my craft room in search for my leftover stash. Instead I found these...<br />
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I made this riot of crocheted squares last year for months and months. The idea had been to yarn-bomb a chair with them. I even began to attach them to the chair. The only problem was - and it took me a year to admit it - the chair was too big for my craft room. Eventually I came to terms with this and sold the chair. I have different plans now chair-wise so I am left with a huge carrier bag full of colourful crochet, asking to be made into something.<br />
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After careful consideration I have decided to join them together into a kaleidoscopic blanket for my spare room bed. It will really brighten the room up and I am sure the cat will appreciate a cosy new blanket on what he believes to be his bed!<br />
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So this week, as a test to see how the colours could blend in sections I created a smaller, cushion version from springtime yellows and blues. We are not quite there yet, the weather today is grey and cold and even the warm browns and golds are disappearing from the hedges leaving bare branches. My choice of colours are a reminder of the splendour to come with daffodils, bluebells and green buds on the branches along with those crisp, blue sky days where the air seems to smell fresher and it feels like everything will be ok.<br />
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It really felt great joining together those squares, finally using something I had put so much effort into so long ago! I slip stitched them together along the back in rows, then worked down the horizontals. This is absolutely my favourite way to join crochet but I am not keen on the seams it creates showing so for the blanket I will mattress stitch them (which I hate doing but prefer the look of - isn't that always the way?!) for the cushion it worked just fine as the back is hidden inside. I didn't even bother sewing in the ends, just hooked them through to the back and left them hidden. What a massive cheat I hear you say! I assure you had the cushion been destined as a gift or being kept as a permanent fixture I would have taken the time for washability purposes! As I plan on adding these sections into my blanket later on I left that work for another day.<br />
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To join the two sides together I started with a round of dc going through the stitch spaces. In the next round I put two trebles into every second dc space. And finally - the pompom edging! I have fallen in love with this technique and wish to share it with you all. As this tale is growing long I will post the pattern details separately.<br />
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So if you have a bunch of motifs from a UFO you can't quite bring yourself to grow to blanket proportions, make a cushion! You get that great feeling of success and with half the time!<br />
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Well that's it. There are a host of thrifty January posts coming along and the list of participating blogs can be found <a href="http://ideas.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/thrifty-craft-projects-blog-hop/" target="_blank">here</a>. Next, it is the turn of <a href="http://yarndemon.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Yarn Demon</a>.<br />
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Happy New Year everyone and enjoy the rest of the hop. I will be back soon with the pompom edging for those of you who want to try it out.<br />
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<br />Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-13794170572385580762014-11-27T13:18:00.000+00:002015-01-18T19:33:38.754+00:00Christmas Decorations Blog Hop (FREE Gingerbread Man Crochet Pattern)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">I was asked by the lovely folks
at </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://ideas.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Stitch Craft Create</span></a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> to make a Christmas decoration for their Christmas Blog Hop. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There have been </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://ideas.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/handmade-christmas-decorations-blog-hop/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">25 posts so far</span></a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> in the run up to the festive season. Yesterday we had an
insightful book interview by Nicole of </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://blog.followthewhitebunny.com/2014/11/handmade-scandinavian-christmas.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Follow the White Bunny</span></a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> with the author of </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/handmade-scandinavian-christmas#401713" target="_blank"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Handmade Scandinavian Christmas</span></i></a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">, </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.2athome.no/"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Hege Barnholt</span></a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">. She even made some paper decorations from
the book. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">I think as usual that I got the
wrong end of the stick about the theme of the blog hop, judging by all the
posts so far. Everyone else seems to have picked a project from a book to make or written a review.
There are projects from </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/handmade-scandinavian-christmas-pdf-ebook#803359" target="_blank"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Handmade Scandinavian Christmas</span></i></a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">, </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/washi-tape-christmas#401889" target="_blank"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Washi Tape Christmas</span></i></a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> and </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/crochet-your-christmas-baubles-ebook#803733" target="_blank"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Crochet Christmas Baubles</span></i></a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> to name a few. It is highly like that I was
supposed to follow suit but instead I went off on a tangent and made something
new!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Whilst pondering the subject for
my blog hop I had a day out with a friend and her little girl who spotted a
stall with beautifully decorated gingerbread shapes. We took a while to choose
our victims from amongst the ranks of gingerbread people and it was almost a
shame to devour them, they were so pretty. I got over the feeling soon enough
as the gingerbread was delicious! I decided that my decoration would be my own
take on this delicacy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Made as he is of crochet, there is
little danger of this little guy being eaten by the cat while he hangs on my
Christmas tree, which is just as well because he can’t run like his ancestor in
the fairytale could! I intend to make him some friends too, decorating them in
different ways to create a variety of personalities.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Gingerbread Man Pattern</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">You will need:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">DK yarn in biscuit / brown</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">4mm crochet hook</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">yarn needle</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">buttons and yarn / thread to decorate</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">stuffing <i>(only if you are making a cuddly toy version, mine is flat with no stuffing)</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><b>UK terms used:</b><br />
</span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.dottydoily.com/2012/04/crochet-uk-vs-usa-stitches.html" target="_blank"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">See here for US conversion chart.</span></i></a></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">MR – Magic Ring<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">dc – Double Crochet<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">dc2tog – dc 2 together<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">ch – chain<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">FO – fasten off<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">sk – skip<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">st – stitch<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><i>Note: All parts are worked amigurumi style in a continuous spiral. Use a stitch marker to keep track of the end of each round to avoid pickles, swearing and unravelling!</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><b>Head</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 1: 6dc into MR<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 2: 2dc in each dc around
(12dc)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 3: (dc in next dc, 2dc in
next dc) around (18dc)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 4-7: dc in each dc around<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 8: (dc in next dc, dc2tog)
around (12dc)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 9: dc2tog around (6dc) FO.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><b>Arms (make 2)</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 1: 8dc into MR<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 2-6: dc in each dc around<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 7: dc in next 6 dc, dc2tog
(7dc)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 8: dc in next 5 dc, dc2tog
(6dc) FO.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><b>Legs (make 2)</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 1: 6dc into MR<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 2: 2dc in each dc around
(12dc)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 3-4: dc in each dc around<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 5: dc2tog over next 8dc, dc
in next dc around (8dc)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 6-8: dc in each dc around <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Note: FO 1st arm but leave 2nd unfinished. You will continue the
body from the top of this leg.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><b>Body</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Continuing on from 2nd leg. Rnd 1
will join the two legs together. You will dc around the top of each leg,
joining together with a ch1 space between them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 1: Dc in next 7dc, 1ch, place
hook in the top of 1st leg, just after where you fastened off, dc in next 8dc,
1ch, dc in last st of 2nd leg. (16dc / 2 chsp)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 2: (sk 1ch, dc in next 8dc)
around (16dc)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 3-6: dc in each dc around<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 7: (dc in next 2 dc, dc2tog)
around (12 dc)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 8: dc in each dc around<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 9: dc in next 4 dc, (moving
across to top of 1st arm) dc in next 6 dc, (moving back to body) dc in next
7dc, (moving across to top of 2nd arm) dc in next 6 dc, (moving back to body)
dc in last dc. (24dc)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 10: (dc in next 2 dc, dc2tog)
around (18dc)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 11: dc in next dc, dc2tog
around (12dc)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rnd 12: dc2tog around (6dc) FO leaving
long tail. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><b>Finishing</b><b> </b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">You could stuff the gingerbread
man if preferred and you could add safety eyes to the head before finishing off
if you want it as a toy. I wanted mine to look more like a biscuit so I left it
unstuffed and added stitching around the edges to keep it flat. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Sew in all loose ends not hidden
during the stitching of the body. Sew head and body together at neck with long
tail on body. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVK9jfCJXhrnra1WijDT2_iUCDHxtwDhD8XJeje7s8x44s5eCbt-SNatL1putXBNtfg-ys2ms_foRu0COcNzoQeEIyAqFQBBHPo73iJQVyy_e0zzE0PnIFPnxXmK6fBHqe-CM8wQbkqi4/s1600/Photo+27-11-2014+12+50+40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVK9jfCJXhrnra1WijDT2_iUCDHxtwDhD8XJeje7s8x44s5eCbt-SNatL1putXBNtfg-ys2ms_foRu0COcNzoQeEIyAqFQBBHPo73iJQVyy_e0zzE0PnIFPnxXmK6fBHqe-CM8wQbkqi4/s1600/Photo+27-11-2014+12+50+40.jpg" height="640" width="594" /></span></a></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><b>Personalising</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Decorate your gingerbread with
contrast yarn for ‘icing’ and buttons or beads for ‘jelly sweet buttons’. I
gave my gingerbread a heart as well as buttons and used a blanket stitch around
the edges as well as some couched stitches to create piping for cuffs and hems
of his outfit. You could use any kind of embroidery technique you prefer for
this. I would love to see how your gingerbread men turn out. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Use this basic
recipe to create all sorts of styles, you might even want to add hair or other
decorations to create different characters.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><b>Hanging loop</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Sew a loop of ribbon or cord into
the top of your gingerbread man, tie the ends and then poke the knot inside the
crochet fabric to hide. You could do this before sewing up the head and body
but if you forget that’s fine. (I did and mine worked out ok!)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Have fun making your decoration
and enjoy the rest of the blog hop. The list of people taking part is </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://ideas.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/handmade-christmas-decorations-blog-hop/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">here</span></a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">. Next up is
the exceedingly talented Lauren of </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.guthrie-ghani.co.uk/blog" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Guthrie andGhani</span></a></span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">. I can’t wait to read her post!</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-55407531926632184082014-11-07T18:20:00.000+00:002014-11-07T18:21:08.417+00:00Christmas Makery<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://scontent-b.cdninstagram.com/hphotos-xaf1/t51.2885-15/10597288_341637092672375_780683904_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://scontent-b.cdninstagram.com/hphotos-xaf1/t51.2885-15/10597288_341637092672375_780683904_n.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I made these for the Crochet Christmas Baubles book but had to send them away so it's back to the drawing board!</td></tr>
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OMG! How did this happen?!!! I was going to be so prepared for Christmas this year, handmade gifts well under way and decorations done. That turned out to be an unrealistic dream and I have NOTHING done!<br />
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So the time has come to get things under control. I don't have too many things on my list but I certainly need to make sure that everything I make from here on in is a Christmas item. I plan on sticking to small things - nobody will be getting a blanket this year put it that way! I think some things like wrist warmers, mug cosies and that kind of thing would be good as gifts, and a few simple decorations to liven up the tree.<br />
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One thing which will help kick-start my Christmas creativity will be the blog hop I have been asked to join by <a href="http://ideas.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/handmade-christmas-decorations-blog-hop/" target="_blank">Stitch Craft Create.</a> I am to make a Christmas decoration and write about it. I have not decided what I will make yet but I imagine it could very well be crochet related! Whatever I make I will post some instructions in case you want to have a go at it yourselves. If all goes to plan my Christmas Blog Hop post should be live on 27th November and I will try to remember to link back from here.<br />
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Oh no! I just realised I need to make my Christmas cake too! Got my work cut out for me I think!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://scontent-a.cdninstagram.com/hphotos-xap1/t51.2885-15/1516164_177435535789549_1390771460_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://scontent-a.cdninstagram.com/hphotos-xap1/t51.2885-15/1516164_177435535789549_1390771460_n.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last year's Christmas cake was lovely but all that decoration was hard work so I may scale back this time...</td></tr>
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Hopefully you are all a little more organised with your gifts and decorations than me but if not, take comfort in the fact that I am in as much of a pickle as you are!<br />
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Happy last-minute-Christmas-crafting everyone!Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-47722975515897588492014-10-01T13:46:00.001+01:002014-10-22T22:44:02.185+01:00Crochet Amigurumi Pumpkin Pattern<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Great for Halloween, these cute, little, ghoulish gourds are quick and easy to make for seasonal gifts, toys or decorations. Stitch a different expression on each one to give them a personality! They can guard your trick or treat candy or hang in the window to scare passers by although you may hear more 'Awww' than 'Aghh' when people see them.<br />
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<b>You will need</b></div>
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Stylecraft Special DK yarn</div>
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<span class="s1">in <a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/stylecraft-special-dk-spice#510287"><span class="s2">Spice,</span></a> <a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/stylecraft-special-dk-copper#510283"><span class="s2">Copper </span></a>and <a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/stylecraft-special-dk-meadow#510235"><span class="s2">Meadow</span></a></span></div>
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<span class="s2"><a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/aluminium-crochet-hook-orange-4mm#.U-5uPLxdXKw">4mm Crochet Hook </a></span></div>
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Stitch Marker</div>
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<span class="s2"><a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/gutermann-sewing-thread-colour-000#.U-5ukbxdXKy">Black thread</a></span></div>
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<span class="s2"><a href="http://www.purplelindacrafts.co.uk/10-x-6mm-black-toy-safety-eyes-826-p.asp">Safety eyes</a></span></div>
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<span class="s2"><a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/supersoft-toy-filling#.U-5vR7xdXKw">Polyester toy stuffing</a></span></div>
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Yarn needle</div>
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Scissors</div>
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<b>Stitches & Techniques</b></div>
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</b>Magic Ring</div>
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ch - chain</div>
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dc - double crochet</div>
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dc2tog - dc two together</div>
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sl st - slip stitch</div>
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tr - treble crochet</div>
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htr - half treble crochet</div>
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picot - ch2, sl st in 2nd ch from hook</div>
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<b>Pumpkin</b></div>
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With Spice</div>
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RND 1: 6dc into Magic Ring</div>
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RND 2: 2dc in each dc (12)</div>
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RND 3: dc in next dc, 2dc in next dc. (18)</div>
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RND 4: dc in next 2 dc, 2dc in next dc. (24)</div>
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RND 5: dc in next 3 dc, 2dc in next dc. (30)</div>
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RND 6: dc in next 4 dc, 2dc in next dc. (36)</div>
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RND 7-12: dc in each dc.</div>
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RND 13: dc in next 4 dc, dc2tog. (30)</div>
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RND 14: dc in each dc.</div>
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RND 15: dc in next 3 dc, dc2tog (24)</div>
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RND 16: dc in next 2 dc, dc2tog. (18)</div>
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RND 17: dc in next dc, dc2tog (12)</div>
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Add safety eyes about halfway down and 6 sc apart. Snap on washers and stuff firmly.</div>
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RND 18: dc2tog (6)</div>
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Fasten off leaving long tail. </div>
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<b>Stalk</b></div>
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</b>With Meadow</div>
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RND 1: 4dc into Magic Ring</div>
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RNDS 2-5: dc in each dc.</div>
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RND 6: 2dc in each dc. (8)</div>
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RND 7: 2dc in each dc. (16)</div>
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RND 8: *slst in next dc, (htr, tr, picot) in next dc, (tr, htr) in next dc, slst in next dc,* Repeat around to make 4 leaves.</div>
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Fasten off leaving a long tail.</div>
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<b>Finishing</b></div>
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Cut a long strand and use a running stitch or back stitch to create 6 lines down the pumpkin from the top opening to the centre of the bottom.</div>
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Stitch the mouth. using black embroidery thread or yarn. I used a tiny couching stitch to hold down the curve of the mouth.</div>
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Hide all the ends of your detailing yarn and thread inside the opening of the pumpkin with the stuffing, then using the long Spice tail, neatly sew the opening closed.</div>
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Position the stalk over the top of the pumpkin and using the long Meadow tail make a few firm stitches through the base of the stalk and the top of the pumkin and back. Repeat around to secure the stalk but still allow the leaves a little movement to create character. After you have tied off the last stitch, bring the thread through the body of the pumpkin and pull it a little tighter, then cut the yarn and it will be hidden inside.</div>
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You could place these little characters all over your home for halloween. Try different expressions for a bit more fun. If you have a collection of tiny pumpkins you could turn them into seasonal bunting using some ribbon or twine.</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Please Note: As with all my free patterns, you can sell items you make using the pattern and you can share the pattern on your own blog or elsewhere as long as you link back to me. Please do not resell the pattern as your own work. That's when I get cross!</span></i></div>
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Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-89881612660859123332014-09-01T08:00:00.000+01:002014-09-01T08:00:00.731+01:00Cactus Amigurumi Pattern<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have been meaning to make a little <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/201864129/cute-amigurumi-cactus-crochet-pattern?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">crochet cactus</a> for ages now and looking online I saw lots which people had made to look like the realistic plants. These are brilliant but I already have a healthy collection of cacti which look as realistic as they come! So I thought, what is better than a cactus? The answer came to me; 'A cactus with a face!' And so <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/201864129/cute-amigurumi-cactus-crochet-pattern?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">my pattern</a> came to be.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/201864129/cute-amigurumi-cactus-crochet-pattern?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">This little amigurumi cactus</a> will never need to be watered. No matter how much you neglect her she will continue to smile at you from her place on the shelf. She will never spike you (even if you sit on her!) and she will stay in flower all year round. As I am not known for my green fingers (hence the cacti collection) this is my ideal plant!<br />
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The pattern only calls for a few odds and ends of Double Knit (light worsted) yarn so it is great for using up your stash. It uses simple stitches and typical amigurumi techniques such as the magic ring and working in a spiral. You could use any colour combinations you like for the pot and the flower and will just need two shades of green for the cactus itself and a brown or neutral for the sand/soil at the top of the pot. The rest is up to you!<br />
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My cactus has safety eyes but you could use beads or buttons, or you could embroider the eyes with black thread. I used plastic toy pellets in the base of my pot for weight but you could use sand, small pebbles or dry rice instead.<br />
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I need to make some friends now for this one. She tried to make friends with the other cacti but they are just too spiky!<br />
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If you <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/201864129/cute-amigurumi-cactus-crochet-pattern?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">buy my pattern</a> and have any questions please comment here or email me. I would be glad to help. If you make a cactus and want to send me a photo I would love to see it! I am on <a href="http://instagram.com/dottydoily" target="_blank">instagram</a> so you could tag me there or just drop me an email. I hope you have as much fun as I did making her!Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-59491794996718024232014-08-31T09:56:00.004+01:002014-08-31T09:56:53.997+01:00Pumpkin Crochet Competition!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello everybody! I worked up this cute little pumpkin amigurumi crochet pattern for the guys at <a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/" target="_blank">Stitch Craft Create</a> to go out in their Autumn catalogue and I will pop all the instructions up here for those of you who don't receive their mailing, in time for you to hook up your own spooky cutie's for Halloween!<br />
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<b>There's just this one thing...</b><br />
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... I would really like to get to 2000 followers on Instagram and I am a couple of hundred off so I thought it would be a nice way to pick up more followers if I ran this as a giveaway. I will therefore release the pattern when I reach my magic number. In addition to this I will send the three pumpkins shown in this photo to a lucky winner (drawn at random from all entries when I get to 2K followers). I hope you don't all think I'm being too mean making you wait!<br />
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<b>So, to enter the competition you will need to:</b><br />
Have an Instagram account (if you don't, get one! It is my fave ever social app - just wow!)<br />
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Be following <a href="http://instagram.com/dottydoily" target="_blank">@dottydoily</a></div>
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Be following <a href="http://instagram.com/stitchcraftcreate" target="_blank">@stitchcraftcreate</a></div>
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Re-gram the <a href="http://iconosquare.com/viewer.php#/detail/799008118331289812_48779747" target="_blank">photo</a> tagging @dottydoily and #ddpumpkinwin</div>
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When I get to 2k followers I will do the draw for the winner and launch the free pattern. Good luck everyone!<br />
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(A little note to private instagrammers. You will need to either comment on my original post so that I can follow you to see your entry, or send me a Direct message to take part.)</div>
Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-81389313214701945242014-06-12T10:00:00.000+01:002014-10-22T21:32:35.242+01:00How to tie a slip knot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"Let's start at the very beginning..." Maria was a sensible girl if you ask me. I thoroughly agree that it is a very good place to start! But rather than Do, Re, Mi, in Crochet we generally begin with a slip knot. There are other ways to start when you are working special kinds of crochet but for your granny squares, doilies and blankets, a slip knot is what you will need to get started.<br />
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Some of you will have no problem mastering this while others (like myself once upon a time) will have a bit more difficulty and end up with a knot that doesn't slip, or a slip that won't knot! I have photographed every stage I go through when creating a slip knot and hopefully it should give you a fool proof guide to that most important crochet fundamental! This is my first Crochet School instruction so if anyone reads this and finds it is not helping I am looking for feedback please!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiswOEXONvIQ5M4hPlrvvj6501hG2BnLMgnig5ngYnAUCDqHhEx_pzJ-PnHNU2-AbxUR4BBpU4pHAxfZAr31FUkQuzUVmRekZNXVHQLGdhzp3MjFT8ku6V_wkIlXwEXDLeuNqsufH0DBVQ/s1600/Slipknot_steps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiswOEXONvIQ5M4hPlrvvj6501hG2BnLMgnig5ngYnAUCDqHhEx_pzJ-PnHNU2-AbxUR4BBpU4pHAxfZAr31FUkQuzUVmRekZNXVHQLGdhzp3MjFT8ku6V_wkIlXwEXDLeuNqsufH0DBVQ/s1600/Slipknot_steps.jpg" height="273" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>STEP 1: Use the right hook for your yarn</b><br />
Before you start to crochet make sure you have the right yarn for your project and the right hook for that yarn. Don't do as I did and pick up any old yarn and hook combo, then wonder why your granny square looks like a holey lettuce leaf! All yarns have a label which gives needle size information. Just switch this for your crochet hook.<br />
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<a href="http://www.dottydoily.com/2012/05/crochet-uk-vs-usa-hook-sizes.html" target="_blank">Hook Size Charts</a><br />
<a href="http://www.dottydoily.com/2012/05/woolly-wednesday-yarn-thickness-chart.html" target="_blank">Yarn Weight Charts</a><br />
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<b>STEP 2: Make a loop at the end</b><br />
Now you are ready to start crocheting. Have your hook ready but for now just make a loop in the end of the yarn like I have here.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>If it helps to start with, place it down like I have so you can compare with the photo. Sometimes it all looks a bit different when you hold it up in the air. That comes with practice and you will soon be wondering what all the fuss was about!</i></span><br />
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<b>STEP 3: Pull up through the loop</b><br />
Next, take the top strand (connected to the ball) and pull a loop up from under your first loop.<br />
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<b>STEP 4: Insert the hook in the centre loop</b><br />
Pop your hook under the new loop and over the old loop as shown.<br />
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<b>STEP 5: Pull short end to tighten knot</b><br />
Pull the short end of the yarn to tighten the base of the knot. Keep hold of the hook as you do so and the main loop (it is referred to as the working loop in patterns) will stay quite loose.<br />
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<b>STEP 6: Pull long end to tighten onto hook</b><br />
Pull the long end (connected to the ball) of the yarn whilst continuing to hold the hook and it will tighten the working loop onto the hook. You are all set and ready to begin crocheting!<br />
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Practice this several times to get used to it. If you have done it right you should be able to slip the knot off the hook, pull the short end and the whole thing will come undone so you can do it again.<br />
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I hope that you have found this post useful. If you are a beginner crocheter and want to ask my advice about anything hooky related please comment or <a href="mailto:dottydoilycraft@gmail.com" target="_blank">email</a> me and I will do my best to help. Think of my as your crochet Agony-Aunt - The one with the blue rinse and the Werthers Originals in her handbag!<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Please feel free to use my tutorials to help in any way with your crochet projects. I am happy for you to share them, just make sure to link back to my site by way of acknowledgement.</span></i><br />
<br />Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-40962351295313750372014-06-09T09:06:00.000+01:002014-06-12T13:30:41.330+01:00Blog Hop<div class="p1">
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It's time for a blog hop! "And what might a blog hop be?" I hear you ask. It is a sort of digital trail of discovery - a great way for bloggers, and in this case creatives and makers, to expand their reading lists, find new inspirations and like minds, and generally have a great round of mutual back patting! </div>
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This particular blog hop concerns makers, crafters, artists and creatives and these are just the sort of people who's blogs I love to discover. The idea is that each participant tags three more people so that the cycle continues endlessly one would hope, although that magic number has somewhat eluded me this week!<br />
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I was asked to take part in the hop by lovely lady <a href="http://aliceshomemadestudio.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Alice</a> who wrote her blog hop post last week. Take a look back at hers and you can follow the trail back and forward from there too. I was so pleased to be asked and looking forward to writing my post. However, the last week has been a frantic flurry of emails and messaging to recruit my three other bloggers. And now, on the eve of my scheduled post I have had to admit defeat with just two bloggers at the end of my post. I hope this doesn't upset the equilibrium of the blogosphere! I will introduce you to them at the end of my post.</div>
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And now to the post itself. I was asked four questions which I will answer as best I can below and they should give you a bit of an insight into my process, such as it is!<br />
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1. What am I working on? </h4>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">While I am interested in all craft and am in awe of sewers and printers and knitters, it always comes back to crochet for me. Maybe one day I will pick up a needle and thread or try my hand at papercrafting but there is always something else to try - a new thickness of yarn, a new stitch, a different approach to w</span>orking with colour or texture - so that crochet still holds me in thrall.<br />
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At present I am working on a mass of squares of all colours of the rainbow to cover an armchair I adopted and named 'Dorothy' and in whom I am sitting in whilst writing this post. The scale of the project is somewhat daunting so it is something I come back to every now and again in between other things. Maybe one day you will see a Ta-dah post with the culmination of my efforts showing Dorothy in her dazzling new coat of many colours!<br />
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By contrast I was asked this week to write a pattern for a little Pumpkin Amigurumi to be featured in a catalogue in September for <a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/" target="_blank">Stitch Craft Create</a>. I will also be posting it on my blog as it has been a while since I featured a free pattern. I worked it up yesterday afternoon and am thinking about making him some friends with different expressions on their faces now. Short and sweet!</div>
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A couple of months back I was asked to write a pattern for a great book about making accessories and decorations for your bike. The book is called <a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/craft-bomb-your-bike#401884" target="_blank">Craft Bomb your Bike</a> and is out in August but available to preorder now. Another of my patterns featured in <a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/101-ways-to-stitch-craft-create-vintage#401709" target="_blank">101 Ways to Stitch Craft Create Vintage</a> earlier this year and I am pleased to say that both patterns were the featured projects on the front covers of their respective books!</div>
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My brain is always ticking away with new things to try and that small selection does not cover all my WIP's and UFO's such as a tapestry crochet cushion cover, a handbag and more, all hidden away in my drawer of doom! All will be resurrected at some point but I am a little excitable about new things and less so about finishing off old things!</div>
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2. How does my work differ from others of its genre? </h4>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">I would say that whilst individual aspects of my work fit in with other examples of their genre, the fact that I am never content with just one kind of crochet, one application, one colour palette or one source of inspiration keeps my work fresh. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2p4iLwlI7G5kqnJPjKYldlwTOQftn6x_sS1SOkm-WVfs0OIVHmwHn5VF9nJB6gb2sbzjcp5cnLs7IgBFizAzX_avzkn7g7bfkrLfRc-SHVKaxWl_KvTu8U0YUSQVVVMZ5IIl4GEiCe0k/s1600/bloghop_images_why.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2p4iLwlI7G5kqnJPjKYldlwTOQftn6x_sS1SOkm-WVfs0OIVHmwHn5VF9nJB6gb2sbzjcp5cnLs7IgBFizAzX_avzkn7g7bfkrLfRc-SHVKaxWl_KvTu8U0YUSQVVVMZ5IIl4GEiCe0k/s1600/bloghop_images_why.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">You wouldn't be able to visit my blog knowing exactly the sort of thing you are going there to see, apart from it being crochet related! In general I prefer bright colours but I have even been known to use more subdued colour palettes so there really is no tying me down! Whilst I am in awe of the makers who are able to churn out beautiful blanket or bootie sets one after another, I don't think that is something I will be able or willing to do anytime soon! </span><br />
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3. Why do I write/create what I do? </h4>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">I have always enjoyed the creative process - I used to love drawing and making and creative writing as a child and apart from a short break while I was busy being a teenager and early twenty-something, I have continued this obsession into adulthood. Paintings and stories have become graphic design and blogging, clay modelling and straw dollies have become crochet and so on. I think it is safe to say that I will always want to make something and then tell the world about it!</span><br />
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGYKa6_3F5ASQgWhKFOTIFPHLEpg1SpaJdHnbmWB8c83Tb2mC5VjiGEzObwFKqnvpAzfT7UkHqKlJUcPstIgdrLgRwGSyOI7BB9Svs_OTJ1PC6wQx7Y9CIgOr0rXLzHQlxMazFcsEkpx4/s1600/bloghop_images_why2.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGYKa6_3F5ASQgWhKFOTIFPHLEpg1SpaJdHnbmWB8c83Tb2mC5VjiGEzObwFKqnvpAzfT7UkHqKlJUcPstIgdrLgRwGSyOI7BB9Svs_OTJ1PC6wQx7Y9CIgOr0rXLzHQlxMazFcsEkpx4/s1600/bloghop_images_why2.jpg" /></a><br /><br /> 4. How does your writing/creating process work?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: normal;">Inspiration strikes from so many directions that it is hard to keep up with it! For example, I could start researching something for work then spot a reference to a new method or find an unusual colour palette on pinterest or instagram and then suddenly I am away, trying something out, writing it all down, photographing it and sharing it on instagram, and then when I have finished the item and am ready to proudly show it to the world, I will either write it up as a pattern or tutorial or just as a final reveal if I am feeling precious about it, and up it pops on the blog!</span></h4>
Time is a huge constraint for me however, I wish I could make and write full time but I work full time as an Art Editor for a craft publisher and online craft store (which is brilliant BTW!) and when I am home, even without children in my life I find that there is a lot of boring stuff taking up my time. I love that I stay busy - I would be bored without every minute spoken for in some way but it would be great to have a few hours a week I could devote to dottydoily. Maybe one day...<br />
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I will finish off by introducing my fellow blog hoppers:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbpqXb4qUK8PJxH13_wWxmDYGD1hq9daxXhoeb3XRJj2anVZmfZFs7ZcLAzQ257_0VlAy79Js3nJ21INNPwR8utlRJXNDnfAoEbuWy2pXOFyKQEHtiPqswEj-KWbZnkiTNIMqP8ppDXAQ/s1600/hoppers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbpqXb4qUK8PJxH13_wWxmDYGD1hq9daxXhoeb3XRJj2anVZmfZFs7ZcLAzQ257_0VlAy79Js3nJ21INNPwR8utlRJXNDnfAoEbuWy2pXOFyKQEHtiPqswEj-KWbZnkiTNIMqP8ppDXAQ/s1600/hoppers.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="http://jijihook.fr/" target="_blank"><b>Jijihook</b></a> is a French blogger who designs crochet amigurumis. She shares free crochet patterns and all her creative ideas on her <a href="http://jijihook.fr/" target="_blank">blog</a>. Since she is also fond of granny squares and artjournal, she has launched two linky parties that anyone can join at any time: the Granny Love Challenge (the idea is to crochet at least one granny per week) and the "Artjournal et Gribouillages" Challenge (the idea is to make one page of artjournal on a different theme every week). She also has an<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Jijihook" target="_blank"> Etsy</a> shop with English crochet patterns and I love her instagram feed @loisirspassion_jijihook</div>
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<a href="http://iamsimplyhooked.wordpress.com/about/" target="_blank"><b>Jennifer</b></a> is a full time teacher and part time mum, wife, gardener and crochet geek (not necessarily in that order). She took up crochet two years ago when her youngest child left home for art school and has not been able to put her hook down since! She <a href="http://iamsimplyhooked.wordpress.com/about/" target="_blank">blogs </a>refularly and can be followed on Twitter as @JennyHSkye<br />
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I hope you enjoy reading their posts which will be out next Monday 16th June.</div>
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This area is strictly for newbie crocheters looking to pick up a hook for the first time or those who know the basics and want to add some new stitches to their repertoire. I aim to build a library of photo tutorials and possibly video instructions (if I work out how to set up the tech), working through from that first slip knot and endless string of chains (which you will not be able to stop making once it clicks!) to all the usual stitch suspects and the different ways of working crochet. I will add in some information about yarn weights and hook sizes along with anything else I can think of that I had to go and hunt down somewhere on the internet when I was a beginner crocheter.<br />
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There is a TON of information available to anyone learning to crochet these days, with youtube videos and blog tutorials aplenty, there is hardly cause for me to reinvent the wheel here! And yet I feel the urge to give something back.<br />
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Here are some of the great blogs and resources I found inspiration and instructions from when I started out crocheting...<br />
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<a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/" target="_blank">Attic24</a> - My first project was Lucy's Summer Garden Granny Square<br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/crochet" target="_blank">Crochet Geek </a>- All kinds of crochet tutorials with clear instructions<br />
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<a href="http://www.purlbee.com/crochet-projects/" target="_blank">the Purl Bee</a> - Great patterns and tutorials for crochet and more<br />
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<a href="http://annabooshouse.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://annabooshouse.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Annaboos House</a> - Cute, quirky and original patterns with clear photos and instructions</div>
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I started my crochet journey with a video here and a tutorial there, all available for free thanks to the hours of time given up by crochet guru's the world over who have blogged and recorded all their tips and tricks to help me and many others get to grips with a new craft. However, I Googled and Pinterested my way around the web to find each piece of relevant information I needed in a way which suited my style of learning so my hope is to create a cohesive source for beginners, free of charge and easily accessible right here on my blog, to save all that searching. I will include links to other brilliant bloggers and free patterns which I benefitted from in my early days as well as my own content, because part of the fun of learning is reading about different methods and tips which will vary between people.<br />
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Your comments are always invaluable to me - if I start putting stuff out here and it isn't helping at all - let me know! Or if you are just confused by one step or your work isn't turning out the same as the picture I show, get in touch! I will try to answer your questions as quickly as possible. It will take a while for me to build up this collection of information so bear with me and please ask if you are looking for a tutorial I haven't written yet - I will point you in the right direction if I can.Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-43956668244757139182014-04-30T15:18:00.001+01:002014-04-30T15:18:14.513+01:00Hello Dolly!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/2R0vFFGkGhI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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I did it! I have just finished my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2R0vFFGkGhI" target="_blank">live webchat</a> about the <a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/my-crochet-doll#401744" target="_blank">My Crochet Doll</a> book by <a href="http://instagram.com/kessedjian" target="_blank">Isabelle Kessedjian </a>and I seem to have survived the experience! I was a bit nervous as I am sure you will be able to hear, and I can't believe how Northern my accent still sounds even after all these years of living in Devon!<br />
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If you have bought or are thinking of buying the book, this series of slides with commentary from myself and Ame at <a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/" target="_blank">Stitch Craft Create</a> may help answer a few questions you would have about the usability of the patterns. You may want to just watch it if you know me online for a giggle!<br />
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<b>Here are some useful links to help you with making your crochet doll or amigurumi:</b><br />
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<a href="http://instagram.com/dottydoily" target="_blank">My Instagram feed</a> with some photos of my doll project as well as all sorts of bits and bobs.<br />
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#mycrochetdoll - loads of great photos with this tag on Instagram. If you tweet me with this hashtag and ask any questions you may have about making the doll I will see what I can do to help you!<br />
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<a href="http://instagram.com/kessedjian" target="_blank">Isabelle Kessedjian's</a> Instagram feed is adorable and she has shared lots of images of the dolls.<br />
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<a href="http://www.planetjune.com/blog/tutorials/crochet-tutorials/" target="_blank">Planet June</a> has an amazing blog on which reside a great selection of really clear amigurumi tutorials and videos. She is a clever lady!<br />
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<a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/" target="_blank">Stitch Craft Create</a> is a great place for hooky supplies along with an <a href="http://ideas.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/" target="_blank">ideas blog</a> where there are lots of free tutorials and patterns for download.<br />
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Of course, if you want to message me here with any questions I will keep an eye out and try to help. I would stress that the book is really easy to follow and that you can make what looks like a really impressive project, using only one stitch and some careful counting. I really loved making mine!Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-34183399674032296332014-04-24T23:12:00.000+01:002014-04-24T23:27:40.498+01:00Dotty Doily's Dolly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://origincache-ash.fbcdn.net/1172565_1380396665541077_1980895308_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://origincache-ash.fbcdn.net/1172565_1380396665541077_1980895308_n.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now here is a project I really enjoyed working on the whole way through. I work at the publisher of this great title by <a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/my-crochet-doll#401744" target="_blank">Isabelle Kessedjian called <i>My Crochet Doll</i>.</a> I worked to drop in the translated text and prepare the book for printing as well as redesigning the cover for UK and US sales. Because of the hours I spent poring over the beautiful images of this gorgeous doll pattern and the amazing wardrobe of clothing options, I could not resist having a go and making one for myself.<br />
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Here she is! I really enjoyed making all the parts and sewing them together. The instructions were really simple and clear and there are lots of pictures in the front part of the book which show how the doll fits together. I had a slight calamity with the hair because I got so carried away giving her a thick mop of golden locks that I added too much yarn and the weight of it made her head sag down! I spent a lot of time unhooking random strands of hair to shed the ballast!<br />
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There are loads of outfit options in the book including various scenarios such as bedtime, outdoor wear, holiday wear and so on, dressing up clothes and accessories, and even some little companions for the doll. This video shows some of the cute little photos from the book to give you an idea.<br />
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I chose to use the basic wardrobe patterns to create my doll's clothes so that I could customise an outfit in the colours I liked. I may make some more later on but for now she has Trousers, boots, a jumper and even some knickers! I also made a few bits of my own design to accessorise her. There is no limit to using just the items from the book as long as you make things to fit the doll so I made a tiny beanie hat and then just because I could I made a weanie little cowl using this marvellous pattern from the lovely <a href="http://annabooshouse.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/the-ultimate-cowlsnood-pattern.html?m=1" target="_blank">Annaboo's House blog.</a><br />
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I used <a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/yarn/stylecraft-yarn/special-dk" target="_blank">Stylecraft Special DK</a> yarn for the doll all the items and a 3mm hook rather than the standard size for that yarn which made the stitches a little tighter. The book suggests Bergere de France yarn but I love the feel and the range of colours in the Stylecraft range. Almost all of the patterns use just one stitch (double crochet UK / single crochet US) worked in an increase and a decrease to shape the pieces. It is a true masterpiece of amigurumi!<br />
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My crochet doll was finished around Christmas and yet she remains, chilling out in my craft room and generally looking cool and coordinating with things (over Easter she found a <a href="http://www.dottydoily.com/2013/04/cheeky-chick-and-egg-pattern.html" target="_blank">little friend </a>to keep her company!) I have a lot of very tiny girl relatives who are a little too young for me to bear handing her over to just yet so I am keeping her although I am finding it a bit weird keeping dolls at my age! Maybe when one of the small girls gets a bit bigger and less hamfisted I will part with her, or if I have a little girl of my own I would make an heirloom of her.<br />
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If you are thinking of buying the book or have it but want to find out more before getting started on your doll, I will be taking part in a live <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2R0vFFGkGhI" target="_blank">Google Hangout session</a> next Weds (30th April). You will be able to view the video on this page during and after the event but if you subscribe to the session <a href="https://plus.google.com/events/cip27bknvnc4s8msvbibln2is8k" target="_blank">here</a> you will be able to ask questions during the discussion and I will do my best along with the help of my colleague Ame from <a href="http://ideas.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/" target="_blank">Stitch Craft Create</a> to answer them!<br />
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Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-77021204250343690342014-03-15T18:40:00.001+00:002014-03-15T18:40:14.381+00:00My first Embroidery Project<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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I had so much fun making this cute little picture! For ages I have been wanting to have a go at embroidery. </div>
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I acquired this brilliant little leaflet from a neighbour of my Mother last year on a visit up North (look at the price!) and it seemed to tie in with my existing wish to make a start with some stitchery! Ever since on the design of <a href="http://www.dottydoily.com/2013/11/book-review-hoop-la-by-kirsty-neale.html" target="_blank">Kirsty Neale's first book 'Hoop-la!</a>' and seen just how versatile an embroidery hoop can be, I have been fired with a need to make and frame an item within that simple circle of wood.<br />
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I began with a rather scribbly sketch on a piece of paper which I roughly transferred to a piece of neutral linen I had bought on an <a href="http://www.abakhan.co.uk/" target="_blank">Abakahn</a> spree on my trip up North. I only had a 2b pencil but a washable marker would have been much better. I was just suddenly so excited to begin I was winging it quite a bit! Then I started stitching.<br />
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I stitched the fox first. I like to throw myself in at the deep end so to speak! Using a simple backstitch to outline the shape, I then filled in with satin and scatter stitches, working to create the shape of the nose and make the tail look suitably bushy! I love his little black forelegs! His nose got a bit large but I'm not complaining for a first effort.</div>
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After stitching the lines on the tree trunk using stem stitch, I outlined the grass and filled it with different coloured running stitches. I used seed stitch to fill the leaves in on the tree and created the curved shape of the sun using shades of yellow and orange in different stitches to give it a sampler style. One of my favourite elements of this piece literally grew as I went along. These cute little agaric toadstools just seemed the right thing to add. Peering out from behind the tree trunk and flower stems, you have to look for them but its an 'aww' moment when you see them!</div>
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The flowers were created from an explosion of different stitches I wanted to try. lazy daisy being one, bullion knots were another (these are what make up the bush which my chirpy and exotic bird perches on. Not all the stitches have names as far as I am aware. The further I went, the more confident I became with how to create the shapes and colours I wanted.</div>
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Like I said at the start of this post, I really had fun with this and enjoyed every last stitch. Embroidery is for me a wonderfully creative medium in which to express some of my more artistic ideas. Whilst I have never been the world's best sketch artist, the slow speed of embroidery and option to pull back and reposition a stitch when it doesn't sit quite right, give me the confidence to embellish and decorate with a true sense of freedom.</div>
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This first piece will be hanging on my craft room wall but I think that next I would like to make an embroidered item for a particular purpose. Maybe a cushion cover or cloth of some kind. I like the idea of making some new heirlooms...</div>
Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-54116574101636516532014-02-08T19:40:00.000+00:002014-02-08T19:46:02.087+00:00A nice catch up!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I was shocked to see it is almost two months since I last blogged anything. When I think about everything that has been going on I am not really surprised but this does little to relieve the guilt!<br />
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So to catch you all up with a quick overview - Since my last post I have:<br />
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Made Christmas presents for some of my smaller relatives...<br />
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...and one for Darren of course!<br />
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Made this gorgeous little doll from a book published by my work. More on this soon - I shall do a review!<br />
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Lost over a stone with <a href="http://www.weightwatchers.co.uk/index.aspx" target="_blank">Weight Watchers</a> - still a long way to go but making good progress!</div>
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Made and Decorated my Christmas cake - which I have been very good and only had a couple of slices of!<br />
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Got engaged to my darling fiancee Darren...<br />
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We visited my Mum in Preston just after Christmas, then went to the Lake District for the day on New Year's Eve for a walk. Part way around we stopped for a brew and a sandwich and he read me a poem he had written all about us, and asked me to marry him. I said yes (of course!) After our walk we drove to a little farm cottage he had booked for us and celebrated New Year in a lovely lazy, laid back style. We tucked in and watched the Godfather in our cozy little room together. He bought this beautiful ring for me - just perfect - and I am desperate to get it back from being resized but I must be patient! Wedding plans abound but we are aiming for next year to give ourselves some breathing (and saving) space.<br />
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Wrote a crochet project for a book - so much fun to make as it is in my usual crazy rainbow colours. The book will be published next year I think so I will post more on this soon.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's a sneak preview of the finished item. I just love the crazy rainbow colours!</td></tr>
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Completed my tax return and filed online with about three days spare! Oh the agony!</div>
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Became a master of procrastination and learned to embroider when I should have been completing my tax return! Here is my progress on a little sampler I have been experimenting with. I just sketched out a few elements and started stitching, working out the colours as I went and changing a few things along the way. I am really pleased with how this is looking and aim to frame it within the hoop and maybe use an edging method from <a href="http://www.dottydoily.com/2013/11/book-review-hoop-la-by-kirsty-neale.html" target="_blank">hoop-la!</a></div>
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Begun creating crocheted rainbow squares to cover my little old lady chair 'Dorothy' up in the craft room...<br />
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It is quite a big project to take on but I know that if I just do a little bit at a time I will eventually have enough to cover her. Then the challenge will be getting all the pieces fixed together and stitched to the chair. I am researching upholstery and looking any images I can find to see how this would be done. So far I have come up with a curved needle and that is about it! I think I need a Pinterest board for this so I will post more when I have more to share.</div>
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So...What next then?</div>
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Well, I will focus in on completing a few things so you should see a few posts which are concentrated on a particular project. I think I should make sure I detail the chair project and give any advice I can as I have not found much on the subject online and think this would be valuable info for yarny upholsterers!</div>
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I desperately want to restock my shop and will try to make things for this at the weekend. I started experimenting with marbles in the week so these might appear soon if I can bear to part with any of them!</div>
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The stitchery was something I found really enjoyable so there may be more of this to come too. This year was supposed to be the year I got to grips with my sewing machine and I have not begun that journey yet... I'm scared!</div>
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I think that's enough to be getting on with for now isn't it!</div>
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I hope you are all having fun so far this year with all of your projects, hooky or otherwise!</div>
Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-59522047197239149952013-12-11T22:13:00.004+00:002013-12-11T22:17:02.725+00:00Assemble the Minions!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well look at this! No posts for a month and then two come along at once! I have to say, I enjoyed writing my last piece about Harriet's lovely cushion that I was spurred on to tell you about my minion making adventure over the weekend. I have made a few other things and I will take you through them some time but as making this little guy at the weekend was just so much fun I thought I would bring him to the front of the queue!<br />
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After wracking my brains as to what to make my two year old niece for Christmas (she is going through short phases with her toys so I have been struggling to find something which is flavour of the week) I popped round for a visit and found her watching the despicable me film with her mum. Every time a minion appeared on screen she giggled and said 'Minion!' so I thought I should get to work making her one of her very own...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgfQJ0ZD5pWr_NfQPjmKO9LNRD41DGnbCCLHiUuEhGzSiLt5Eyp_pS6_W65xJB2Iwmup30oVC9aB4-GnVqzphtUwKWi6vg_CG7qphNDhIuqarjvbnMtKn26E-wOVcOWCulwiAhbSQY5yg/s1600/dave2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgfQJ0ZD5pWr_NfQPjmKO9LNRD41DGnbCCLHiUuEhGzSiLt5Eyp_pS6_W65xJB2Iwmup30oVC9aB4-GnVqzphtUwKWi6vg_CG7qphNDhIuqarjvbnMtKn26E-wOVcOWCulwiAhbSQY5yg/s640/dave2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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...And here he is! Meet 'Dave' the minion.<br />
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I worked on him in between batches of mincemeat and my mince pies at the weekend, and while we watched lots of cheesy Christmas films. It was great just making something up as I went along, referring to the picture and just making each piece to order.<br />
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The body was worked as a spiral from the top of the head with about 5 increase rounds, then worked down to where the dungarees start, then I switched to blue to finish off and decrease. I made a flat piece for the front of the dungarees and stitched it to the bottom after stuffing then a smaller rectangular piece for the back, with long rectangles for the straps. tubes for the arms and legs, which I only stuffed at the ends to make it more drapey and cuddly, and simple shapes for the goggles.<br />
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Once you start looking all the bits are easy enough to work out, you just need to keep looking back at the images on the web to make sure the positioning and scaling are correct. Maybe one day I will get my act together write the pattern out but there are lots out there already, I just wanted mine to be more 'Dave'.<br />
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I had so much fun making this guy although there was a bit of unraveling, accompanied by a lot of cursing and I am hoping he will be well received on Christmas day!<br />
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Hope you are all having fun crafting your Christmas gifts. Remember it should still be fun so don't set yourself impossible tasks and stress yourself out. Take it from a girl who's been there!Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-64115152412053258332013-12-11T17:03:00.001+00:002013-12-11T17:03:06.254+00:00Chevron addiction is spreading!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://alittlehousecalledenstorp.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/2013-11-04-11-32-41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="412" src="http://alittlehousecalledenstorp.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/2013-11-04-11-32-41.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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My friend Harriet was quite taken with my chevron cushion pattern and has made five cushions to date using <a href="http://www.dottydoily.com/2013/09/crochet-neon-chevrons.html" target="_blank">this pattern</a>. I am amazed at how quickly she is turning them out! What a star! And they have all been selflessly donated to various friends and family members as gifts. Maybe she will get around to making one to keep soon!<br />
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Harriet has a <a href="http://alittlehousecalledenstorp.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">lovely little blog</a> with details of her crafting endeavours and all sorts of reviews. She has written a <a href="http://alittlehousecalledenstorp.wordpress.com/2013/12/02/crazy-for-chevrons/" target="_blank">lovely little post </a>confessing her chevron addiction and showing off some of her finished items. I love the way she has finished her cushions with machine sewn envelope backs using contrasting and complimentary fabrics. Her friends have all been so happy with their gifts and it is so nice to think that all these people are sitting on their sofas with such a carefully thought out item made by their friend!<br />
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I have more things to tell you as there have been no updates for a while. Things have been made, ideas have been thought of, wheels are in motion. But more of that soon when I get my head around it all. In the meantime, take a look at <a href="http://alittlehousecalledenstorp.wordpress.com/2013/12/02/crazy-for-chevrons/" target="_blank">Harriet's post her</a>e, it makes for a lovely read.<br />
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Happy Hooking,<br />
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Anna xAnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-73885525009184430572013-11-14T10:13:00.001+00:002013-11-14T10:13:46.884+00:00Blog feature on Stitch Craft Create!Yay! My Neon Cushion photo was featured in <a href="http://ideas.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/supercharge-craft-blog/" target="_blank">this post</a> on <a href="http://www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk/" target="_blank">Stitch Craft Create</a>'s blog! I am flattered. Thanks guys! The post is all about supercharging your blog and it is well worth a read if your blog is feeling a bit sad.<br />
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I'll be back soon with the Christmas gift making progress (slow!) and other news.<br />
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Anna xAnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-21692362986190270502013-10-24T22:44:00.002+01:002013-10-24T22:44:25.793+01:00The Neon Chevron Cushion is here!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcyBOpmDhf5650K01-_61xa1n8B22jgOnHTXLO0Ad-jTsJh_qy37oav1rKyXZKhWNQXcT4mtk9ABnoAuAw3Cs_3gYDuseGoOYyRIDjLuz1lxWT-fgxuuzoXviW0r1Db-Uj6gtDxtyj6U/s1600/zig-a-zig-ah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcyBOpmDhf5650K01-_61xa1n8B22jgOnHTXLO0Ad-jTsJh_qy37oav1rKyXZKhWNQXcT4mtk9ABnoAuAw3Cs_3gYDuseGoOYyRIDjLuz1lxWT-fgxuuzoXviW0r1Db-Uj6gtDxtyj6U/s640/zig-a-zig-ah.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I actually finished this a little while ago but didn't a moment to photograph it! I have been snapping away tonight so I can show you the finished cushion I made using the <a href="http://www.dottydoily.com/2013/09/crochet-neon-chevrons.html" target="_blank">chevron pattern</a> I wrote earlier in the month. Well, here it is!<br />
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The huge brightness of this cushion makes me grin every time it catches my eye - which it seems to be able to do even from behind a closed door, so vivid are the man made, graphic hues!<br />
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When I wrote the pattern I did not make instructions for how to make the back, mainly as I had not decided what to do back then. After much hemming and hawing and looking at this fabric and that yarn, I decided to crochet a great swathe of white trebbles with a smaller swathe for the closing flap.<br />
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I stitched on some cute little buttons I found in this great little <a href="http://www.pur-ple.co.uk/" target="_blank">independent shop</a> and then single crocheted it all into place, creating a piped looking edge at the same time. I am very proud of myself for spending all that time sticking to just plain white. It is hard for me when surrounded by lots of other colourful yarn all the time to just leave it on the shelves!<br />
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Cushion is in Dorothy's loving embrace for now but I really need to bring her up to date with a nice crochet cover. She is looking dowdy in comparison to the gaudy colours of my 'psychotic rainbow' colour scheme everywhere else! Yet another project to get started on. It will have to wait now as I need to get into Christmas gift production mode!<br />
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I hope you liked seeing my neon cushion. If you want to make one yourself or even a chevron blanket, my <a href="http://www.dottydoily.com/2013/09/crochet-neon-chevrons.html" target="_blank">free pattern is here.</a><br />
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Happy hooking,<br />
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Anna<br />
xxxAnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-15095380968182400532013-10-02T23:25:00.004+01:002013-10-02T23:46:13.521+01:00A Yarndale Tale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last weekend I was lucky enough to travel all the way from Devon up to Skipton for the fibre festival known as <a href="http://yarndale.co.uk/">Yarndale.</a> This was the first year for the show and judging from the number of excited crafters in attendance it will not be the last!<br />
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The show ran on both Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th in a most unusual display of late September sunshine!<br />
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My Mum standing next to a complimentary blanket. Cute Knitting Kits from <a href="http://sheapknits.wordpress.com/">Sheapknits</a>. A rainbow of yarn at the <a href="http://www.easyknits.co.uk/">Easy Knits</a> Stand.</div>
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There were 161 stalls - I went on both days and I still didn't get to see all of them as it was so busy! Entry fees were very reasonable as were stall rentals. This was calculated deliberately to encourage the smaller companies and individuals and it made for a startling array of materials such as hand dyed yarns and roving from various animal and plant fibres plus beautifully crafted equipment for a range of crafts such as knitting, spinning, dying, weaving, braiding and of course crochet! There were also many exhibitors selling handmade clothing, accessories, jewellery and more - usually relating in some way to yarn, plus many clever entrepreneurs like <a href="http://www.rosecottagecrafts.com/">Rose Cottage Crafts</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/catchemonkey">Catchee Monkey</a> who had created their own ranges of craft kits or workshops.<br />
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Me and my Auntie Linda meeting Lucy in the Knit and natter lounge. The lovely Attic24 display. One of Lucy's beautiful work in progress blankets!</div>
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In the centre of it all I found a little slice of <a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Attic24</a>. A knit and natter lounge had been set up with sofas and chairs, artfully draped with Lucy's very own creations to make us feel at home. It was wonderful to see them close up in person. Marooned on this colourful island, Lucy stood firm, smiling and chatting with a sea of delighted fans swirling about her. I don't know how she found the energy for it all. Of course I had to meet her myself. I am one of her many fans as it was her blog (suggested to me by my wonderfully creative Auntie Linda), which got me started on my hooky journey in 2011. It was great to meet her face to face and be able to tell her what an inspiration she has been to me. I wasn't disappointed, she is just as lovely as her blog would suggest and had time for everyone who approached her.<br />
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The <a href="http://yarndale.co.uk/yarndale-oxfam/" target="_blank">Oxfam Yarn Amnesty</a> was really successful! A gorgeous crocheted blanket from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/thespannerworks" target="_blank">The Spanner Works.</a> Busy crafters in the workshop area.</div>
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A separate area had been set aside for workshops on all manner of subjects. These were available to book ahead of the show, or, places permitting, on the day. One of my instagram pals <a href="http://abunchofbuttons.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/the-delights-of-yarndale-pt-1.html" target="_blank">A Bunch of Buttons</a> attended one of the courses and her thoughts on this make for a great read. She was so busy that we didn't get a chance to meet up before she headed home. Next time maybe!<br />
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My amazement at all the bunting! All those pins are clever crafters who sent in their crocheted flags. An amazing scene from the Attic24 banner, hooked up for decoration by <a href="http://www.littletinbird.co.uk/" target="_blank">Little Tin Bird.</a></div>
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The entrance hall was festooned with miles of hand crocheted bunting flags - over 6000 in total from crocheters all over the world. It was such an amazing spectacle to see on arrival.<br />
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The IG Crowd - photo courtesy of <a href="http://statigr.am/viewer.php#/user/8785442/" target="_blank">@ballyfuller</a> instagram feed. You get a great view of all my chins in this one!</div>
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On the Saturday there was an Instagram meetup arranged at lunchtime and I approached the knit and natter lounge feeling much apprehension. I needn't have worried as they were all such a lovely friendly bunch! We were all so excited to be sitting in the same room as the great Lucy, full of chatter about the day so far and we all agreed that we would all be trying to make it for next year!<br />
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There was a big, red London bus by the name of Jean who took me into town to visit Lucy and Tracy's studio. Tracy of the Patchwork Chicken greeted me and showed me around. What a lovely space they have. So light and pretty with such beautiful accessories and items on display.<br />
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I walked down through the park up to the canal where there was a final yarny treat for us! The Yarndale team had created a host of yarn bombs which they had tied to trees, railings, lamp posts and more, throughout the park. My favourite was the rows of ducks on the lock by the canal. Just after I snapped this two things happened simultaneously - my phone battery finally died just as a flotilla of real ducks swam right by the yarn bomb which would have made for the best photo ever!<br />
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Of course, I spent way too much money, but it was worth the second mortgage to meet such great makers and artisans which I wouldn't normally get the chance to do when buying online or shopping for more conventional materials. I got some new things to try too! Tunisian crochet hooks, a peg loom, t-shirt yarn, jute twine and some really posh Merino yarns from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fortheloveofyarnuk" target="_blank">For the Love of Yarn</a> and which are going to look and feel fantastic once I work out what I am going to make with them!<br />
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As you can see from this massive and enthusiastic post, I loved every minute of Yarndale and can't wait for next year!<br />
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Anna xAnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-64036486499344853912013-09-23T18:29:00.000+01:002013-10-02T21:09:05.243+01:00Chevron design updateHello!<br />
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I promised you an edging and I wasn't lying! I have updated the Chevron pattern post <a href="http://www.dottydoily.com/2013/09/crochet-neon-chevrons.html" target="_blank">here</a> to include an edging pattern to square off the top and bottom. That way you can turn it into a cushion cover, bag or anything else you might like!<br />
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Happy hooking!<br />
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Anna xAnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-62191416766830465202013-09-21T11:52:00.002+01:002013-09-25T14:11:51.027+01:00Crochet Neon Chevrons<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit0wxKTwoES8W5InSsxLwSai_nyWTR5xZgqcrio97D38WxchDKiA5c3xbu-voPkTLrPl6zKKkvMk9GUJw5umbse5FD1ckaCuy2ZYTlL4h53yfDWKvvBiBIYAT_YquBcibd9mHzVjY-vF0/s1600/chevron+photo+bars-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit0wxKTwoES8W5InSsxLwSai_nyWTR5xZgqcrio97D38WxchDKiA5c3xbu-voPkTLrPl6zKKkvMk9GUJw5umbse5FD1ckaCuy2ZYTlL4h53yfDWKvvBiBIYAT_YquBcibd9mHzVjY-vF0/s640/chevron+photo+bars-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I've been obsessing about crocheting with neon colours for ages now. After finishing my ripple blanket, I really missed working on it, so I thought chevrons would be a similar project. As usual, I couldn't quite find one I got on with so I made up my own. </div>
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Here is the pattern for the chevrons with an option to square off the edges if you are making a cushion cover like mine. You could use this for a blanket or anything else you would like a chevron pattern on.</div>
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So here is the chevron pattern I worked out. It is a properly pointed one, rather than a soft ripple as the blanket I made before. I wanted the chevroniest chevrons I could make!</div>
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3mm crochet hook (or 4mm if you are making a blanket - for better drape)</div>
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Double knit yarn in your chosen colours</div>
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Scissors</div>
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Yarn needle</div>
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<b>US Terms throughout:</b></div>
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ch = Chain</div>
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sk = Skip</div>
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st = Stitch</div>
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hdc = Half Double Crochet</div>
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dc = Double Crochet</div>
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjokOSfHi-I" target="_blank">tr = Treble Crochet</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzNm45bPcy8" target="_blank">dc2tog = Double Crochet 2 Stitches Together</a></div>
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Make your starting chain to your desired width.</div>
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You need to make 21 ch for each chevron, plus 12 ch at each end for the half chevrons and turning ch...</div>
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...So when you know how many chevrons wide you want your piece to be, times that number by 21 then add 24 for the two half chevrons and turning ch.</div>
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To work out how many chevrons you will need, make a test swatch with 43 chains and follow the pattern a few rows to see how it turns out. You can then measure your swatch and do the maths!</div>
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As a guide I made mine four chevrons wide, plus two half chevrons - one each end - to fit a larger size cushion. <b>So thats 4x21=84, +24=108.</b></div>
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If you are like me and prone to winging it, just be prepared to buy a different size cushion inner than you originally had, or play it safe and make a blanket! They are not size critical!</div>
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The first 2ch counts as a stitch at the start of each row.</div>
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I hope that isn't too confusing. It really is the only fiddly part, once you start your first row you are away!<br />
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<span style="text-align: left;">hdc in 3rd ch from hook, </span>hdc in next 9ch, *sk2ch, hdc in next 9ch, 3hdc in next ch, hdc in next 9ch*</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">repeat between ** until 12ch remain, sk2ch, hdc in next 9ch, 2hdc in last ch.</span><br />
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ch2, turn, hdc in same st, hdc in next 9st, *sk2st, hdc in next 9st, 3hdc in next st, hdc in next 9st*, repeat between ** until 12st remain, sk2st, hdc in next 9st, 2hdc in last st.<br />
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Repeat row 2 until the piece reaches your desired length.</div>
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My stripes are 8 rows for the white, then 6 rows for the colour. You can make the stripes as narrow or wide as you like but it is easier if you stick to even numbers of rows for continuity.<br />
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<b>ROW1:</b></div>
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Attach ending colour to last st of last row, ch1, turn, *sc in next 4 st (including the same st as the ch1), hdc in next 2 st, dc in next 2 st, dc2tog, tr in next st, dc2tog, dc in next 2 st, hdc in next2 st, sc in next 4 st.* Repeat between ** to end.</div>
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<b>ROW2:</b></div>
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Ch1, turn, *sl st in first 2 st, sc in next 2 st, hdc in next 2 st, dc in next 3 st, tr in next st, dc in next 3 st, hdc in next 2 st, sc in next 2 st, sl st in next 2 st.* Repeat between ** to end.</div>
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<b>ROW3:</b></div>
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Hdc in every st. Repeat for more rows as needed to square off the cushion.</div>
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<b>VARIATION FOR BOTTOM EDGE:</b><br />
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For the bottom edge, turn the cushion 180 degrees and join the edge colour as per ROW1. Follow the instructions as above except for the first and last sections (where you need to fill in a half triangle).</div>
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To begin, ch4 (counts as tr), dc2tog, dc in next 2 st, hdc in next2 st, sc in next 4 st. Then follow as per ROW1 between ** up to the last half triangle. Then finish with - sc in next 4 st, hdc in next 2 st, dc in next 2 st, dc2tog, tr in last st.</div>
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On the next row begin with ch4 (counts as tr), dc in next 3 st, hdc in next 2 st, sc in next 2 st, sl st in next 2 st. Then repeat ROW2 between ** until the last half triangle and finish off with - sl st in first 2 st, sc in next 2 st, hdc in next 2 st, dc in next 3 st, tr in last st.</div>
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The last row is exactly as ROW3 above.<br />
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I added a round of single crochet stitches all the way around the edge of my square once the edge was finished so that when I attach the back I have a good foundation to stitch or crochet into.<br />
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You could make an identical piece for the back, or crochet a square of the same size using a different stitch pattern. The possibilities are endless!</div>
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I hope you have fun with this and if you want to share any of your creations with me tag me on facebook, twitter or instagram.</div>
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All the Best,</div>
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Anna x</div>
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As with all my patterns, please feel free to sell anything you make with this one, but don't sell the pattern. If you use the pattern elsewhere please link back to me for credit.</div>
Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-88737205587299098822013-09-08T15:18:00.001+01:002013-09-08T16:01:35.105+01:00Welcome to Dotty Doily!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJPace8GvgKyx5c_hEVdxUWFreLHY_p21NpQWY2tHJ5VneJoSGahtDX7FwV-D39JYw28ZFDLxD6YftlyGRvc2RuMEZIyx8i2TGQtmVPtxNgaipPhQZ47OE96SKCI8cGXnS-cnnYjAYrPw/s1600/hello.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJPace8GvgKyx5c_hEVdxUWFreLHY_p21NpQWY2tHJ5VneJoSGahtDX7FwV-D39JYw28ZFDLxD6YftlyGRvc2RuMEZIyx8i2TGQtmVPtxNgaipPhQZ47OE96SKCI8cGXnS-cnnYjAYrPw/s400/hello.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Many of you already know me under the name of 'Two Birds Craft'. I started my crafting and blogging journey with that name along with a second bird. Unfortunately the second bird has now flown the nest! Starting a family, going back to work part time and other commitments just don't leave her with enough time remaining to squeeze in a bit of craft. As this will be the case for a good while I felt I needed to change the name to something which was a bit more on the singular side and something which would sum me up as an individual a bit more. Thus 'Dotty Doily' was born!</div>
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I am Dotty about crafting and in particular crochet. Doilies are crocheted in the main so I thought this would be a nice, succinct way of putting it!</div>
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It remains to be said that if ever my crafty friend flies back and wants to resume her activities, I will of course welcome her back with open wings, but for now I am a solo act.</div>
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I hope to be posting more regularly in the future. My lovely man Mr D is going to be working away during the weekdays so I will be filling the lonely nights with design, craft and blogging! In addition I am teaching a few others to crochet so if I come up with any good tips for beginners or tutorials which are useful I will add and link these in a new section. There is also hope that enough people locally will be interested in a regular craft group so fingers crossed as I think that would be fun!</div>
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Content will progress in a similar way; things I have been trying out, ta-dah's, highlights of other blogs, books or forums I am loving, tutorials, patterns and tips etc. I will expand and organise this as I progress but for now, bear with me!</div>
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My main progress reports are through my instagram feed. My username there is @dottydoily and this will just be changed over from the @twobirdscraft name so my feed should show the same images etc.</div>
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Don't forget to drop into my shop from time to time - 'Dotty Doily Handmade' on Etsy. I add all sorts of things here and as I am now experimenting with patterns etc, I will be adding some of these for sale for nominal amounts. Other patterns will be free on this blog. The rest of my items at the moment tend to be jewellery and cute little stitch markers for crocheters.</div>
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I look forward to any feedback you might have for me on the new theme and any suggestions of things you would like me to cover in my posts. I usually have something to say but I am always open to comments!</div>
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Anna x</div>
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Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460647204724829131.post-18107882116081793622013-08-19T16:40:00.002+01:002013-09-23T08:00:47.104+01:00Pattern Designing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkdMkXCmTBFbVEsDwQzC5O-aTNdIPCbMdwcmPEgnOUvFNgGCLNzVSWLu7ywaXohWILSAkHkLIxVsafaX-mzl6wYHBXHuZEtL6y-2-HM3eJHZCaGYw01YP0PDAREDwxutMoOv9A9GKHxnA/s640/cover.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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This is my first go at writing a proper pattern. I took a lot of time over it and have worked with the design of the PDF to make it pretty - I hope you all agree!<br />
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I decided to write this pattern for <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/160087510/gumdrop-crochet-baby-booties-pattern?ref=pr_shop" target="_blank">simple little booties</a> after having not quite found any that I was perfectly happy with. I wanted them to work up quickly and easily, without separate parts which have to be stitched together so that they can be crocheted with colour changes all the way to the end.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/160087510/gumdrop-crochet-baby-booties-pattern?ref=pr_shop" target="_blank">Gumdrop booties</a> are designed for teeny tiny babies aged 0-3 months and they make me go "Awwww" every time I look at them! I named them for the little drop shape the opening at the top makes. They work really well for both boys and for girls and are really easy to work up without lots of complicated stitches. They only tricky stitch has been written out in a really detailed way and it is a lot easier than you would first think.<br />
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Here is the first page of instructions as a little taster of the layout. It is the first page of instructions so you could test them out to make sure you get on with the layout and style.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyU-syjWJveUVseuRUXR2CydeF9hyphenhyphenTm3Fd6LUWT95szuoEt4sBGKkcJ0U4uPUXBnKjd2P8yUMPKggMFMkeUb29FAWFmaVJEXuIwAzYrOC0qNDgyjLRseUG57NPnFURYO7HqPDLyJCoXhQ/s1600/babybootseg1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyU-syjWJveUVseuRUXR2CydeF9hyphenhyphenTm3Fd6LUWT95szuoEt4sBGKkcJ0U4uPUXBnKjd2P8yUMPKggMFMkeUb29FAWFmaVJEXuIwAzYrOC0qNDgyjLRseUG57NPnFURYO7HqPDLyJCoXhQ/s1600/babybootseg1.jpg" /></a></div>
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I have given it lots of space and images as it is a digital download so there is no need to worry about paper and ink. I also thought that patterns written with comma separated instructions are easy to get lost with when you are looking back and forth from your work. I have gone instead for numbered instructions for each step of each round. As space is not a concern I thought I might aswell!<br />
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I would really welcome any feedback you would like to offer about this pattern. Layout, design, instructions etc. The pattern is just £1 from my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/twobirdscraft" target="_blank">Etsy shop</a>. I am running this like a test. There are lots more ideas brewing and I would like to create a series of patterns but the design process is time consuming so lets see how this goes first.<br />
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Happy hooking everyone!<br />
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Anna xAnnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12692437386475602885noreply@blogger.com0