Designers: June 2011 Archives
Man, was this little guy fun. I am really getting the hang of crochet and I am really enjoying it as well. I originally fell in love with the Lion on the Cover of 'Leisure Arts Easy Crochet Critters', until the book arrived. Then I took one look at the Hippo and was hooked (oh geez, please excuse my puns). Though something went wonky along the way- I think I left out an increase on the nose. I am still not very good at row counting in crochet so I can't really look back and see where the mistake might be, so my Hippo resembles more of a pig than a hippo but he is cute nonetheless. I am already shifting through my stash to make all the other animals, lion first, and redo the hippo to make sure I get it right this time. I am head over heels for that cute little tail. I made sure to use the right size hook this time, which was tricky but given the practice I was able to adjust in just a few minutes. My confidence is growing. I used the delightful Berroco Weekend in Orchid, which is just a very light purple, perfect for a hippo or the seal. The yarn crocheted up beautifully, with no splitting or snags.
The bonus, that I didn't see coming, is that my little 2 yr old loves the booklet as much as I do. She thinks it is another of her animal books. I get a few minutes of wiggle free lap time where she points to all the animals, we name them and then make the noise. It is bliss. The projects are small and quick so they make great car companions and fit inside a diaper bag or into the back of the stroller. I have also been able to fine tune my Magic Circle technique and use it instead of chaining and then crocheting into the chain. I just magic circle the same number as I would crochet into the chain and pull it up tight. It gives a flawless look. I cannot wait to get started on the other 9 animals and I hope Leisure Arts comes out with even more Amigurumi books like this one!
In 3 months a better part of the country will see temperatures drop and a fall chill creep into the air. It seems 100 years away since it just got hot but before you know it you will be reaching for your wooly sweaters, silk shawls and alpaca scarves. If you don't get busy now you will be left out in the cold. And why not start now. The kids are home from school and in need to activities to keep them entertained. Teach them to knit or crochet and they can create their own scarves. Once they learn to knit or crochet, they will love the activity and creativity. You can take your yarny projects to the park, soccer practice or sit at a local coffee shop while the kids play at camp. It is a great excuse to hide away in the air conditioning for a while.
I have scoured the internet for some great knitting and crochet patterns that you will want to get started on right away. You have 3 short months to put a dent in your knitting & crochet projects before the cold weather creeps in.
Owl Sweater: http://knitting.craftgossip.com/free-owls-sweater-pattern/2009/03/06/
I am a big fan of this Owl Sweater and recommend it with a wool or wool blend yarn in a solid color so the owls are most visible. Don't forget to get plenty of buttons!
Katje Sweater: http://www.fabric.com/knitting-crochet-knitting-books-patterns-knit-cardigan-vest-patterns-coco-knits-katje-pattern.aspx
This is an amazingly constructed sweater- Seamless from the top down, making it easy to try on while knitting. This would look great in tweed!
Child hooded Scarf: http://www.fabric.com/knitting-crochet-knitting-books-patterns-knit-scarf-patterns-marie-grace-designs-child-s-hooded-scarf-pattern.aspx
Such a great idea to make a 2-in-1. I recommend a bright Alpaca
Molly: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/molly-13
This sassy number needs a tonal stripe to make is just right for fall. I can see it in Teal and Lite Green Superwash Merino (pic © Mia Edvardson)
Legwarmies: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/legwarmies
Great for everyone- it can be a stash buster or to bump your cart up to $35/free shipping
Baby Poncho: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/baby-poncho-l0078ad
Crocheted delight for kids. My little one loves her poncho and so do I. It makes buckling into her car seat much easier than a coat.
Honey Cowl: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/honey-cowl
I MUST make this in a trendy, spicy color. I am thinking Candied Yarn Mix! (Pic © madelinetosh)
Elise Shawl: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/elise-shawl
This is simply amazing and I love it in a tightly wound red as featured.
