Babies and Small Things

Some small things were finished and some small things were started.  Yay!  Crafting on a regular basis energizes the spirit, invigorates creativity, and gives a sense of purpose.  And finishing small projects provides a break from bigger projects as well as enough motivation to push ahead on those bigger projects (I'm looking at you, Rainbow Bedspread.  Someday you will be finished).

Meanwhile, I can derive satisfaction from these simple, but pretty, baby items.  This free basic beanie pattern can be found here on Ravelry.  And truly it is a good basic pattern.

Basic Beanie

Sadly the final item seemed rather small--as in freakin' wee!  The above photo doesn't really give a sense of its size until you compare it to something else--like a doll.

Above is my 18" American Girl/Maplea wanna-be and the beanie fits her melon perfectly. Me thinks this is proof that the beanie is too small for a baby--although it might fit a preemie--and I used the 0-3 month size (Worth noting that since my SIL is well into her 8th month, the baby should have a bigger head circumference). To be fair, the pattern included instructions for bigger sizes up to adult size, so I would have found the right size.  Instead I tried my hand at something else.

This second beanie pattern came from Baby Crochet by Lois Daykin.  It was the same book from which came the rainbow baby bib.  Unlike the bib, these instructions were easy to follow and I had no issues with it, other than minor modifications.  Since the original pattern called for yarn thinner than worsted, my mods included:
1) using a 50 st chain instead of the 60 st chain called for in the pattern.  Thankfully this mod did not mess up the decrease rows.
2) using five 30-st chains for the tassel instead of the twenty 30-st chains called for in the pattern (although I need to trim my ends on the tassels a little more).

I also started some booties.  It's a free pattern from Bernat (aka Yarnspirations--whose website is currently being "updated" so I used the Rav link above.  It will take you to the appropriate link at Yarnspirations--once their website is up and running again).  Since the pattern is one I've made before (see here and also here.  Or you can check out my meager notes on Ravelry), I know two things: the directions are easy to follow and the final item is of acceptable size and dimensions.  It's win-win. ;)

With variegated yarn, there's always the danger of bad pooling, but it's not too bad--at least on the side visible in the photo above.  

Whatcha think?  What's in your project bag?

Rainbow Bib

Rainbow |Bib

So I finished the baby bib from this post and I have mixed feelings.  I like the way the variegated colour did not pool too badly and I love the circular shape; however, none too pleased with the neckline shaping and my confusion over the pattern instructions.  I may or may not attempt a second one, but I think for now I'll attempt a beanie and some booties. Planning to use familiar patterns so that there's no confusion over instructions.

By the way, happy to report that work was done on the lovely rainbow bedspread.  I've been busy seaming and crafting more grannies for the next row . . . every little bit helps. ;)

Rainbows and Bibs

Yup, I did it.  I  made something.  And I even managed to finish it too (but since the natural light has since faded, I'll have to wait for another day to show you the finished item, although I did manage in-progress shots).

Crochet bib in progress

What do you think?  The  pattern comes from a book I borrowed from the library entitled Baby Crochet.    First problem, I used the wrong gauge yarn; instead of fingering, I used worsted cotton.  This, in turn, meant I used a bigger hook.  So while I initially tried to follow the pattern as written, I had to make changes so the bib would not be monstrously large.

Closer view of bib

Although I've crocheted lots of items, I still consider myself a beginner crocheter.  As such, I'm no expert at reading pattern instructions.  So I'm trying to determine if my confusion over pattern instructions were the fault of the pattern itself or the fault of the crafter (i.e. me) . . .  Not sure.

My plan is to make another bib (second time should be the charm, right?).  So if my confusion subsides and I make a better bib, then the fault may lie with me . . . We shall see.  I'll keep you posted.

Sort of Crafting . . .

I meant to pull out my hook and work on more grannies for my bedspread (which will look awesome in my room against the grey walls--if I ever finish it!).  But I didn't.

Instead I attacked a group of boxes left in my room (Ugh!  More boxes!).  Notice the lovely mess of boxes in front of the closet below:

Before: the mess in front of the closet

It made getting to the closet very difficult--to say the least.  Thankfully the mess was diminished--if not completely eliminated.  Baby steps, right?

After: more organized . . . 

The number of boxes continues to decline as I slowly find a home for my stuff--and toss the things that are no longer needed--no easy task, but it's getting done.

The corner by my bed had turned into a mess of bins and baskets filled with miscellaneous crafting stuff:

Before: poster board, bins & baskets

Now it's more organized.  Remember that colourful drawer unit I assembled a few weeks ago?  It now contains many of my scrapbooking supplies (stamps, ribbons, embellishments--a modest stash at best.  My papers are on the bookshelf across the room next the larger closet). 

After: organized space

And then this got me thinking about my craft closet and the baskets of yarn scattered 'round the house.  So I gathered all the odds and ends 'round the house and consolidated everything so that it all fit nicely into the bins--with the necessary skeins left accessible.  I've got photos, paints and embroidery floss on the top shelf (yeah, those are the photos I need to get into albums).

Photos, paints and embroidery floss 

Yarn and some leftover fabric in drawers and bins on the floor.  The large bins are labelled on the outside.  The drawers are clear so it's easy to see what's in there.  A lot of my special yarns are in the drawers--special one or two skeins of pretty colours or interesting fibres.

Bins and drawers filled with yarn.

It's a work-in-progress for sure.  And in my organizing, I found a big ball of cotton.  Isn't  the colour yummy? Perfect for a baby, right?

Colourful cotton yarn for upcoming projects

Someone in the family is due soon.  Time to cast on for some booties, a hat and maybe a few bibs . . . Holiday break is fast approaching and my needles will be clicking away--at long last!  ;)

About Those Dishcloths . . .

It may seem as if there's been very little crafting at casa d'Acrylic-Girl with all the gardening (did you read last week's post?).    But I have managed to find some crafting time--as little as it might be.  What little precious time I have has been spent working on more dishcloths of course!

Notice the ends?  Yeah, I have yet to weave in the multitude of ends **sigh** Guess its the trade-off for using lots of colour (besides, some of the colours I'm using are only small amounts). 

Besides the ballband dishcloths, I made a few more using my own pattern.  In the green-blue version pictured above, I added a navy border using intarsia.  In the white-blue version, I varied the pattern.  Instead of the typical slip and knit stitch, I used the eye of partridge stitch where the slip and knit stitches are alternated each row.

And then I saw some awesome dishcloths over at Purl Soho blog.  All three patterns utilize  slipped stitches to create a thick yet colourful fabric.  While all three patterns look interesting, only the third pattern actually caught my eye.  The Triple L Tweed Dishcoth has a lovely texture created with three colours.

Since the original patterns called for a DK weight, I had to modify the stitch count for my worsted cotton.  Instead of the original 76 called for, I cast on 36 stitches and followed the pattern as written.  My attempt didn't quite look like the version pictured.

What do you think?  Doesn't it look different?  I worked a few rows of multi-coloured garter and then adjusted the pattern using 33 stitches plus 2 (one for each end as selvage since my plan was to pick up stitches and work a few rows of garter).  This means I eliminated the first 3-stitch section of the pattern (I'll post my mods when I'm finished).

I'm not sure the changes worked . . . I'll keep you posted. ;)

Later . . . 

Presenting . . .

Another dishcloth--of my own design, no less! ;)

Inspired by the thickness and durability of slip-stitched heels, I created a garter trimmed design to use up odds and ends of cotton.  I wasn't sure if the design would work, but in the end it created a nice pattern and a thick fabric--handy for a dishcloth or washcloth. 

The purl bumps on the back are handy for scrubbing. 

I made some mods after working the original, but here's the pattern:

STRIPEY SLIP-STITCH DISHCLOTH
Cast on 39 stitches using colour A.
Work 6 rows garter stitch. 
Row 7: K2, PM, knit to last 2 stitches, PM, K2
Row 8: K2, purl to marker, K2
Row 9: Using B  K3, *S1, K1  Continue from * until last 2 stitches. K2
Row 10: K2, purl to marker, K2
Row 11: Switch to colour A and repeat row 9
Row 12: Repeat row 10
Repeat rows 9-10 to complete pattern, alternating colours A and B until desired length is reached.
Work 6 rows garter stitch and bind off.  Weave in ends.

Hoping to make a few more and perhaps add a few mods.  Please share yours if you decide to make one. ;)

Dishcloth Desires

Yeah, sometimes its the simplest item that brings out the creative side . . . especially if you've got a nice collection of scrap yarns, namely in cottons (mine are mostly Bernat Handicrafter Cotton).

I've already regaled you with laundry and water mishaps concerning my dishcloths.  Some have had to go the way of the trash can (it's pretty bad when a dishcloth can't even find a second career as a cleaning cloth).

First dishcloth in blue and white

To that end I started with one dishcloth (incidentally I really loved the contrast of blue against white . . . until the hard water got a hold it--grrrrrrr!).

That dishcloth led to another whose colour combo was less than exciting or even inspiring . . . 

Second cloth in less inspiring yellow and blue

Until I discovered a small stash of colourful scraps hiding out in the black hole known as my craft closet (I gotta re-organize my stuff, but I've been busy "spring-cleaning"  the dressers and closets) . . . 

Cotton Stash

Just love, love, love the colour combo (although there are lotta ends to weave).  Gotta make more in these colours and maybe even experiment with a different stitch pattern like a stripey waffle pattern.  I'll keep you posted.

Pretty Finished Dishlcoth

Have a good week!

Knittin' Stuff

There's no shortage of knittin' projects over at casa d'acrylic.  Hubby's slippers are almost done.  They just need some seaming--and none too soon as his old ones are almost disintegrating as I write this . . . eeek! Must sew post haste!

Man-sized Non-Felted Slippers

And I started another lovely ballband dishcloth.  I've made this pattern before.  It's easy, looks great and works much better than the ol' traditional garter stitch dishcloth (doesn't stretch out too much when wet, yet still has scruffy surface for scrubbing).  My old dishcloths are fading fast.  Living in the country with hard water can take a toll on one's laundry, especially the linens that go in and out of the water.  

Ballband Dishcloth in progress

Since there`s plenty of Bernat Handicrafter Cotton in the stash, I'm makin' more of these dishcloths.  Think 5 to 6 would suffice?  Maybe I should make more?  Let's see how quickly I get bored with the pattern . . . . 

Finished Avocado

Oh, and I mustn't forget:  Avocado is complete!  Buttons and ends sewn into place.  I think it looks very cute with the wooden buttons--very rustic feel to it.  Hubby is set to bring home a box so I can mail it off to my sister.  Hopefully my niece will be able to wear it before the weather gets too warm or she outgrows it (Ya gotta know I'm already planning another cardigan for the fall--hope 12 months will work for sizing).

Have a great week!

A Day Off

My youngest was feelin' a wee bit under the weather, so I decided to keep him home today.  It gave him a chance to rest and get better; also it gave me the chance to finish my Kirby amigurumi. 

Waiting for their Faces

Don't they look cute even without any facial features? I cut out pieces from plain old felt to make the eyes and mouth.  Using acrylic paint, I painted the details.

Waiting for Paint to Dry

 Once the paint was dry, I sewed on the features with plain thread and needle.

Kirby with Friend

My boys are both terribly pleased with their new friends.  I'm already contemplating the addition of more friends (my boys are putting in their requests for Waddle Doo and Meta Knight)


Have a great week! :)

Yahoo!

Towels with Buttons

I'm finished!  All of it is done: the knitting, the crocheting and all the finishing!

Kitchen Towels

Just lovin' the pretty kitchen towels with their buttons sewn on (I gotta make some for my own kitchen once I figure out which colours I'd like to use).  In my quest for free patterns, I did find a few others that I printed off, but never used.  More items to add to my Ravelry queue.

The place mats turned out lovely too (if I do say so--heck, I'm allowed to brag a little).  I really like the border.  And I'm glad I changed the striping.  This pattern was very easy to modify to one's own taste: add or remove stripes and colours to your own taste.

Four Finished Place Mats

And of course, I added a few extra dishcloths--very simple, easy pattern.  Again, this would be easy enough to modify too.

Dishcloths

I've got three dishcloths in total, plus the coordinating dish soap apron.  And dear hubby picked up a cute basket too.

Items in Gift Basket

Funny story: dear hubby explained to gift store owner about needing a basket to hold place mats I had made.  Store owner wondered if I'd be interested in making some place mats for him to sell in the store.  Very flattering, but I think not--at least not right now.  With pending toy requests from the boys and Bernat blog projects on the go, there's a lot on my plate.  Besides, crafting is for fun and I'm not sure if I'd enjoy it as much if it was work.  Something to consider for the future perhaps.

Have a great weekend :D

Not Quite Done

Yarny Bits

But almost there.  I'm working on it whilst surrounded by yarny bits from woven-in ends.  More yarny bits next to the scissors and threaded through my favorite blunt metal needle.  My diskman plays the tunes to keep my energy high and my attention focused.  Almost there.  I can see the light at the end of the tunnel (and my heavens, it's been a long tunnel!).

Even found some matching buttons for the kitchen towels.  They match exactly, even if slightly darker.  Not easy to find the exact same shade and I wasn't too keen on making my own button covers (too much work).  I think it'll be a good match.  What do you think?  

Matching Buttons?

So close to finishing, and what do I do?  I cast on a few last minute items-ha!  Procrastinator or perfectionist?  Hmmmm, tough call.  Actually I'm only working on a couple of dishcloths ('cuz one wasn't enough).  Super quick and no stripes (so less ends to work).

Hoping to hit the local farmer's market on Saturday to find something unique to add to the gift basket (oh yeah, need to get a basket too).

Catch ya later  ;)

Finally

There are three!  The last kitchen towel is complete.  Isn't it lovely?

Third Kitchen Towel

Three Towels

Sorry to toot my own horn, but I think the three towels look awesome together.  I'm very pleased with myself.

My next big task: weaving in all those pesky ends . . . ugh, the part I hate most!  How do you motivate yourself to get through the tedious finishing?  :O

I think I need a glass of wine--or two--and some killer tunes (hmmm, think I'll get my greedy little hands on Them Crooked Vultures).  Sadly I am technologically behind the times: no ipod, just an ordinary diskman.

Have a great weekend  :)

And Then There Were . . .

Two!  Finished the second towel and started a third one in yellow.  I'm changing how I work the bottom striping section just to add variety to the set.  The blue towel's reverse stockinette doesn't look bad now that it's finished.  I'm sure with the right button, it'll look even better.

Second Kitchen Towel

Dare I say that it looks handsome?  It'll definitely match nicely in MIL's kitchen.   (I'm soooo making a set for myself, in both everyday colours and in Christmas colours too!).  The two towels look quite lovely together, side by side.

Two Towels

And, I also finished the last place mat.  It just needs a border. 

Now if I could get 'round to working in all the loose ends, I'll be well on my way to finishing MIL's birthday present.

Happy crafting! :)

So . . .

Second Towel

I started a second towel in blue.  I added contrast striping along the bottom.  Not too sure if I like it yet (maybe I'll skip the reverse stockinette section and just use plain stockinette or garter).

Detail of Striping

My third towel is gonna be yellow (with blue and white striping).  When the kitchen towels are done, I must make more dishcloths.  Only have one made thus far (how slack is that?).  I'll just switch out the colours. 

After I finish the gift set, I'm hoping to embark on another crochet adventure: toy construction.  I've already shared the tale of the teddy bears, but I never showed you the toys I made for Bernat in December.  Check out these two cute fellas:

Meet Monster and Eggy

You can read the details about my Bernat toy adventure at the Bernat Blog post on yarnie pals.  These second set of toys were more fun to make (maybe I'm just becoming a better knitter?).  It helped that the instructions were less fiddly (is that even a word?).

So now my boys want more toys--crocheted toys (I gotta stop searching Ravelry with the boys watching, but there are soooo many cute things!).  Up until recently my crochet skills have been rusty, but with a few projects under my belt I feel more comfortable tackling more challenging items.  

Alas, those are plans for July.   For now,  my kitchen items occupy my time (along with my current Bernat project which looks super cool, but is hard on the hands).

Happy crafting :)

My Quandry: Towel or Placemat?

Almost an FO

Yeah, that kitchen towel proved to be a quick knit.  All done except for the weaving in of ends and finding a button (Aren't I good at hiding the ends?  And I apologize for the quality of my photos, but its been raining for three days . . . )

Another View of Kitchen Towel

While many other knitters have made these towels, I was particularly inspired by Crafterella's  version: check out her towels in bright blue, red and white. And I so love the matching buttons too!

(used with permission from Crafterella)

Aren't they just lovely!  Seeing her towels made me think that perhaps I should make more than just one towel (maybe three?).  Wonder if I'd have enough yarn to make another towel, perhaps with more striping? There should be enough yarn as I'm already on my fourth placemat. 

So here's my quandry: more towels or more placemats?  Initially I thought to make only four placemats, but wouldn't six be better than four?  Now you might be thinking to yourself: make it all.  Well, I'd love to, except that there's limited yarn.  Except for the white, I can't find the same colours locally so I have to use what I've got.

Decisions, decisions . . . :S

Couldn't Resist . . .

I started another project without even finishing what I've got on the needles (or the hook as the case be for my crochet projects).  In my defense, it is an item I planned to make anyways (part of the gift package for MIL's birthday).

Start of Another Kitchen Project

Check out the beginning of my lovely kitchen towel.  I've used this stitch pattern before for a scarf I made (I think I made the scarf about 2 years ago, but didn't actually use it till this winter).  I believe I found the stitch pattern in one of those knitting-pattern-a-day calendars (scarves are easy that way).

The most surprising thing is that the surface of the towel matches very nicely with my crocheted place mats, even though the items are made using two different crafts.  The half-double crochet worked in alternating front and back loops creates a similar textured surface.  How neat is that!

Stitch Detail

This particular kitchen towel pattern comes from Steph's Designs.  The designer has other kitchen towel patterns at her website.  Gotta love the generosity of those who take the time to design something and then offer it for FREE.  Even a seemingly simple item as a kitchen towel does not come easy for me.   Sure I can do a scarf, but anything else and my brain requires a pattern.  Once I've made the pattern, I can modify it and change it up, but I need the pattern first.

Back to my knitting . . .
Happy crafting :)