Archive | October, 2016

Crochet Super Scarf using Chunky Yarn

Now you can crochet a super scarf using chunky yarn.  I have created this pattern using a Jumbo weight yarn from RedHeart.  It is called “Grande” yarn.  I chose the “Foggy” color since this could work for most wardrobes as it is a neutral color.  Since this super scarf uses this chunky yarn it works up very quickly.  I wanted to design a pattern that would be easy enough for beginners to crochet.  I hope you like this scarf.  I wrapped it around myself several times and it feels so plush and comfy.   I want to thank RedHeart Yarns and Boye for sponsoring this project.  It was a great opportunity to try the Boye ergonomic hooks and the Red Heart Grande yarn.   (photos courtesy of RedHeart Yarns).

Crochet Super Scarf

Crochet Super Scarf

Super Scarf

Super Scarf by Yolanda Soto-Lopez

 

I usually don’t use Chunky yarns but creating this pattern allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and use a chunky yarn and the Boye ergonomic hooks.  I am really pleased with how it came out.   I also uploaded a free YouTube video tutorial of this project.    On the next page, I had included the free written pattern and a link to the video tutorial for visual learners.    Enjoy!

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Ombre Shawl using Caron Cakes by Yarnspirations

I love Ombre shawls, using the Caron Cakes by Yarnspirations I was able to design this beautiful shawl.  I wanted to take full advantage of the ombre effect created when using the new Caron Cakes by Yarnpspirations.  This design allowed me to make a shawl that would show off this beautiful effect.   I want to thank Yarnspirations for sponsoring this post.  This design and ideas are my own.  This shawl will make a great gift or make it for yourself.  Caron Cakes are exclusive to and available at Michaels stores.

Ombre shawl using Caron Cakes by Yarnspirations

Ombre Shawl using Caron Cakes by YarnspirationsSupplies needed to create your Ombre Shawl

Supplies needed for  your Ombre shawl

2 Caron Cakes by Yarnspirations (colorwave of your choice)

Yarn needle

Scissors

H- Crochet Hook  5mm

Square (I used a CD case) to measure your yarn for tassles

Here is a back view of the shawl.  Can you see the beautiful ombre effect not only on the body of the shawl but also on the tassles?  Keep reading to learn to crochet this beautiful shawl.

Back of shawl

Here you can see the ombre effect of the tassels

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Bernat Stitch-Along / Final Clue and Reveal

The Bernat Stitch-Along is now complete.   Today I share the final clue.  I can’t believe how quickly has passed.  Here we are four weeks later and the final clue is now being revealed.   I love the fact that there was no seaming of pieces in this beautiful blanket.  Each week’s clue has built on the previous clue until today the final blanket is revealed.

Bernat Stitch-Along Knit Blanket

Bernat Mystery Stitch Along – Knit blanket

 

Each week in this Stitch-Along I have shared a different clue.  The result has been that you were able to learn  how to knit new stitch design and for others who were already familiar with these patterns you were able to practice these stitch techniques.  The Stitch-Along has also allowed me to be able to share some tips, tricks, and techniques I use to simply the knit patterns.   I have made every effort to be able to demonstrate the techniques in a way that even beginners can have success.  Remember, just like any other skill knitting takes practice.  Don’t give up or get discouraged if it was a little challenging for you.  These designs and techniques are new to many people. With practice and patience,  you will be able to master any knit design.

Be sure to take plenty of breaks so that you don’t fatigue your hands.  Also, taking breaks will ensure that you are fresh and ready to knit.  I know knitting can be addicting and I struggle to remind myself to get up after 20 minutes or so and stretch my hands and maybe walk around the room.

Stitch-Along / This  Week’s Clue:

This week the clue shared was a border.  Not just a plain border but a beautiful cable border.  The techniques that were used allowed us to attach the border without sewing.  You can get this week’s written pattern and charts from Joann’s website.  Be sure to select the clue for either the crochet or knit design depending on which you are completing.   Here is the link:  Weekly Clues

For the blanket border,  we will be using a cable needle or hook.  I prefer to use a hook, especially for beginners.   In this week’s video tutorial I show you some tips on how to evenly pick up stitches over a long area.  I share how I divide the area up and then pick up the stitches.  I also share how I ensure I am picking up the correct stitches.   Since the pattern is made without seaming we will be picking up stitches as we go along.  The process is divided into 2 steps.   (picking up the stitches and then adding the border).

I created a mini-swatch of the previous week’s patterns so that I could better demonstrate how to add our border.  Using the full size blanket would not have allowed me to show the entire piece within the view area of my camera.  I thought that using the mini-blanket would be a good way to demonstrate where to begin, how to divide my spaces for picking up stitches and to add the remaining border areas and in which order.

Any of the knit designs shared during the first three weeks can be used for creating other size blankets as well.   Just be sure to keep in mind the pattern repeat and then cast on enough stitches to get the desired width of your blanket be sure that number can be evenly divided by the number of your stitch pattern repeat.

Thank You

I want to thank Joann’s Craft and Fabric store  for allowing the great honor of serving as your knit host.  If you haven’t participated in this Stitch-Along there is still plenty of time.  The videos and patterns will be available at the Stitch Along site:  Stitch Along Info Site   Joann’s has also created a special Facebook event page.  This page is being shared by both knitters and crocheters.  This is a fun community where you can ask questions, share your process, encourage others and receive inspiration.   Facebook Stitch Along Page

If you are a visual learner or would like to see a this week’s clue demonstrated please pick on the video below.

 

If you enjoyed this Bernat Mystery Blanket Stitch-Along please be sure to post a comment here and on the Facebook event page.  This will let our sponsor Joann’s Craft and Fabric store know that you appreciated this Stitch Along.   It has been so much fun to be a part of this Stitch-Along.  I love to knit and to be able to share the joy of knitting with others.  Thank you and enjoy your beautiful blanket.  : )

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Bernat Stitch Along, Revealing Clue 3

The Bernat Stitch Along is now in its third week and it’s time to reveal clue 3.  This week’s clue reveal is a beautiful honeycomb pattern.   You may have seen this pattern used in various knitting projects.  Although it isn’t often shared on social media this pattern is really pretty.   The pattern is a 4 stitch repeat.   I have gone back to the color yarn I used in week 1.  The Bernat Stitch Along is really coming along now.

Knit Honeycomb pattern

Clue 3 of the Bernat Blanket Stitch Along

 

Why use a cable needle?  Our instructions call for using a cable needle or hook.   This stitch can be made without using a cable needle however,  the cable needle/hook is an easier and more secure way to ensure you don’t drop any stitches.  (Dropped stitches can be a hassle to pick up).   Some may think that using a cable needle is a slower process but in the end, it can save your from countless dropped stitches and headaches.   If you are an advanced knitter you can create the stitch without using a cable needle or hook.  For beginning or intermediate knitter I recommend using the cable needle.   Once you have mastered the stitch if you want to try creating the pattern without a cable needle that is also an option.   You will just have to be careful that you do not drop any stitches as you work.

This pattern is created by alternating the direction in which the stitches lean.  From left to right and right to left.  By working these stitches in different directions you create the honeycomb pattern.   You can choose to work from either the written pattern of the charts.   Some people prefer to work from written patterns and others from charts.  Either way, we have you covered.   To download all needed info including shopping supplies, patterns, video links or other pertinent information please visit:  Bernat Stitch Along Info   There are some colors that are exclusive to Joann’s Fabric and Craft stores.  You can purchase your supplies at your local Joann’s store or go online to Joann.com

I really like this pattern and it has inspired me to create a knit pot holder.. maybe with a couple of little bumble bees attached to the top.  I am thinking of using some cotton yarn in a honey color.  I think that would make a fun housewarming present.   I hope that you will find the Bernat Stitch Along a great way of adding new techniques to your knitting skills.

It’s not too late to join the Bernat Stitch Along.  The videos and instructions are still available for everyone to download and watch.  Joann’s has also created a special Facebook event page.  That page is being shared by both knitters and crocheters.  On that page you can share photos of your progress, ask questions and be inspired by others.  Visit the page today and be sure to like it.  Here is the link:  Bernat Stitch Along Facebook Page

I have uploaded a  YouTube Video tutorial for visual learners or if you just want a refresher on knitting the honeycomb pattern.   I go stitch by stitch and explain how to create this pattern.   Just click on the video box below to watch the full tutorial.   Be sure to share the video and this post with  your friends and family.

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Bernat Blanket Stitch along – Clue 2 / Week 2

Today I share Clue 2/ Week 2 of the Bernat Blanket Stitch Along.

For the second week’s clue, I chose a different contrast color than week 1.  For this week’s clue,  I am using Contrast color 2 which in case,  is the Bernat Blanket Yarn in Antique White.   I love how this design looks.  It is not something you usually see.

This is a pattern you don’t see very often.  I suspect it might be because people see how gorgeous it is and become intimidated to try to stitch it.  However, I have made every effort to ensure that the video tutorial goes slowly enough for everyone to be able to understand how this stitch is created.    After viewing the video you will hopefully be able to fully understand this stitch and in no time you will be a total pro.  I will share the written pattern and the chart for those who prefer working off of charts.  Either way, I have you covered. Remember, you can stop the video and rewind to view it as many times as you need.  There is also a little gear icon in the lower right-hand side of the video which when selected will allow you to change the speed at which the video plays.  The drop down menu for this icon include a setting for video speed.

Remember, you can stop the video and rewind to view it as many times as you need.  There is also a little gear icon in the lower right-hand side of the video which when selected will allow you to change the speed at which the video plays.  The drop down menu for this icon include a setting for video speed.

Here is a sneak peak at this week’s beautiful clue.

Week 2 - / Clue 2 of Bernat blanket  stitch along

Bernat Blanket Stitch Along Week 2 – / Clue 2 of bernat stitch along

 

This pattern reminds me of candy.  The stitch may be new to some knitters.  This is also a great pattern to use for scarfs or afghans.   The texture is so beautiful.   Using the Bernat Blanket yarn makes it look like little marshmallows.   How yummy!

If you haven’t purchased your supplies yet there is still time to join the fun.  Please sure to visit  http://Joann.com and purchase your supplies today.  The knit and crochet versions have different supply requirements.   There are some color selections that are exclusive to Joann retailers.   If you want more information about this fun Mystery Blanket Stitch Along please visit Stitch Along Supply List and info.  In this page your be able to download each week’s clue, supplies list, written patterns and all pertinent information.   Joann’s has also created a special event page on Facebook for both knitters and crocheters.  On this Facebook page you will be able to upload photos, ask questions, share your progress and be inspired by each other.  Joann’s has created this page as a fun community for everyone participating in this Stitch-Along.  Please be sure to visit and link this page today:   https://www.facebook.com/bernatstitchalong/?fref=ts

If you are a visual learner I have uploaded a video tutorial that goes stitch by stitch and may help you better understand this week’s clue.     Please be sure to share this post with your friends.  Enjoy!   Yolanda

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