How to Make a Center-Pull Ball of Yarn by Hand

September 5, 2013 by ·

How to Make a Center-Pull Ball of Yarn by Hand

how to make a center pull ball of yarn by hand

We’ll show you how to make a center pull ball of yarn by hand…no tools or special gadgets required. This simple technique will keep your yarn stash neat and your yarn tangle free.

yarn wound in various forms

A center pull means that the yarn can be pulled from the center of the ball or skein. The ball stays stationary and does not flop around like it does when yarn is pulled from the outside of the skein.

Yarn comes packaged in several different ways.

Ball – Yarn wound in a round shape that has a center pull (purple ball top left in photo above).
Hank – A loose coil of yarn wound in a large circle with no center pull (red hank bottom in photo above).
Skein – An oblong ball of yarn with a center pull (yellow skein top right in photo above).

yarn in various states

There are several reasons for making a ball of yarn:

  • The skein is 3/4 used up and its shape is floppy and starting to turn into a tangled mess.
  • The hank is easier to work with as a ball of yarn.
  • A project has been frogged (ripped out) and needs to be turned into a ball.
  • A previous ball of yarn is starting to unravel.

How to Make a Center Pull Ball of Yarn by Hand

thumbs up for making a ball of yarn

1. Lay a yarn tail across your fingers with your thumb pointed up and the tail of the yarn dangling below your little finger. Close your fingers around the yarn. You’ve now got a thumbs up to go ahead with the yarn ball.

first wrap

2. Wrap yarn around your thumb at and angle…I usually wrap it on an \ angle. Wrap the yarn around approximately 10 times.

3. Twist that group of yarn about 1/4 turn to the left (clockwise).

2nd wrap

4. Wrap yarn around your thumb at the same angle \ as you did in step 2, again wrapping the yarn around your thumb about 10 times.

almost done wrapping yarn

5. Repeat steps 3 and 2 alternately until your ball of yarn is made.

how to make a center pull ball of yarn by hand

6. Remove your thumb from the center of the ball and that is where your center pull is.

Note: There are a lot of alternatives for this method of making a center pull ball of yarn.

  • You can wrap around two or three fingers instead of your thumb.
  • You can wrap around a knitting needle or crochet hook instead of your fingers or thumb.
  • You can twist your hand/thumb instead of twisting the yarn.
  • You can wrap the yarn around a piece of cardboard or plastic bobbin.

We use this center pull ball of yarn method ALL the time. We often find that after the center pull ball of yarn has been used a while, we will need to remake it. The partially used center pull ball tends to collapse and tangle (as seen in the black ball in the photo above).

 

Filed Under: Tips & Tricks, Yarn · Tagged With: ,

Talk Like a Pirate Day Cozy & Lemonade

August 30, 2013 by ·

Strawberry Lemonade Recipe and Crochet Pirate Cozy for Talk Like a Pirate Day – September 19

talk like a pirate day

Ahoy, mateys. For Talk Like a Pirate Day (September 19), we’ve got a fun crochet pirate mason jar cozy and Strawberry Lemonade Recipe. If ye don’t want to get scurvy on this voyage…you’ll need lots of Vitamin C!

Let’s make some grog before we get to the crochetin’.

jar of strawberry lemonadeStrawberry Lemonade Recipe

Aye, a pirate’s diet is sorely lacking in fresh fruits and veggies when long out to sea. We’ll keep scurvy at bay with this recipe of fresh squeezed lemonade.

Strawberry Lemonade Ingredients:

  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries
  • 1 cup agave nectar
  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice (4 to 5 lemons)

Strawberry Lemonade Directions:

  1. Mix 1 cup water with ¾ cup agave nectar in a 2 qt pitcher.
  2. Hull strawberries (cut off top and fiber from core).
  3. strawberry lemonade ingredientsJuice lemons (best if they are room temperature) and strain to remove seeds.
  4. Blend 3 cups water, ¼ cup agave nectar and strawberries until smooth.
  5. Pour strawberry mixture into pitcher. Stir.
  6. Add more of any ingredient as needed to desired taste.
  7. Keep refrigerated. Serve over crushed ice.

Bottoms up!

Crochet Pirate Cozy

crochet pirate

Avast ye scallywags, it’s time to grab yer crochet hooks before we make ye walk the plank!

We’ll be drinkin’ this lemon booty from mason jars and crocheting with Vanna’s Choice Yarn. Though this be a great stash busting project, Vanna’s rich and vibrant colors are a treasure to be sure.

Skill Level: Easy

Stitches Used: Chain, Slip Stitch, Single Crochet, Half Double Crochet, Double Crochet

Technique Used: Crochet in rows, crochet in the round, increase

Pirate Cozy Supplies:

  • Vanna’s Choice Yarn: worsted weight (4)
    Red Cozy: BEIGE, CRANBERRY, BLACK, CHOCOLATE, WHITE, COLONIAL BLUE
    (Green Cozy: Kelly Green, Beige, Black, Chocolate, White)
    (Blue Cozy: Colonial Blue, Beige, Black, Chocolate, White, Kelly Green)
  • Crochet Hooks:
    H/8/5.00 mm
    F/5/3.75 mm
    C/2/2.75 mm
  • Yarn needle for sewing

crochet piratePirate Cozy Instructions

Beige

Hook: H

Ch 17

Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook. Sc across. (16)

Row 2-3: Ch 1, turn. Sc across. (16)

Row 4: Ch 1, turn. Sc dec, 12 sc, sc dec. (14)

Row 5-6: Ch 1, turn. Sc across. (14)

Row 7: Ch 1, turn. Sc dec, 10 sc, sc dec. (12)

Row 8-9: Ch 1, turn. Sc across. (12)

Row 10: Ch 1, turn. Sc dec, 8 sc, sc dec. Finish off and weave in ends. (10)

Attach Cranberry to bottom right corner (the 1st ch from foundation ch).

Row 11: work 9 sc across the sides of Rows 1-9. Work a sc inc into the corner. Turn to Row 10, sc across. Work a sc inc into the corner. Turn to sides of Rows 1-10. Work 9 sc across. (32)

Row 12: Ch 1, turn. Sc across. (32)

Row 13: Ch 1, turn. 5 sl st, 5 sc. Leave remaining sts unworked. (10)

Row 14-32: Ch 1, turn. Sc across. (10)

side of pirate cozy

Row 33: 5 sc, 5 sl st. (10)

Row 34: *Ch 6. Sc in 2nd ch from hook. Sc, 2 hdc, sc* twice. Join with sl st through center of tails to end of Row 33. (10)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

Join Row 33 to 12 with whip st across.

Eye Instructions

Black

Hook: C

Ch 2

Rnd 1: 5 sc in 2nd ch from hook. Join with a sl st. Finish off and weave in ends. (5)

Attach Colonial Blue to any stitch.

Rnd 2: Sc inc around. Join with a sl st. Finish off and weave in ends. (10)

Attach White to any st.

3 cozies

Rnd 3: Working in the back loop only, *sc, sc inc* around. Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing. (15)

Sew a reflective spot on eye if desired.

Patch Instructions

Black

Hook: F

Ch 2

Row 1: 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook. (6)

Row 2: Ch 1, turn. Sc inc across. (12)

Row 3: Ch 1, turn. *Sc, sc inc* across. Ch 26. Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing. (44)

Mustache Instructions

Chocolate

Hook: F

Ch 18

Row 1: Sl st in 2nd ch from hook. Sc, hdc, 2 dc, hdc, sc inc, sc, sl st, sc, sc inc, hdc, 2 dc, hdc, sc, sl st. Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing. (17)

Assembly Instructions

  1. Pin then sew Eye, Patch and Mustache to cozy. Weave in ends.

Shiver me timbers, we’re done! Let’s grab us some black jacks (mason jars) and drink to yer health.

Talk Like a Pirate:

Just for fun, here are some pirate words and phrases:

Ahoy – Hello
Arrr (Aargh) – An expression
Avast – Stop or Pay attention
Aye – Yes
Black Spot – Death Threat
Blimey – An expression of surprise
Blow the man down down – A command to kill someone
Feed the fishes – Someone will die
Heave Ho – Put some muscle into it
Hornswaggle – To cheat
Landlubber – Person who doesn’t know how to sail
Loaded to the gunwalls – a drunk person
Scalleywag – Mild insult
Scurvy – Vitamin C deficency that causes swollen gums and tooth loss
Shiver me tinbers – An expression of surprise
Son of a buiscuit eater – An insult
Thar she blows! – Sighting of a whale
Walk the plank – Death by walking off the ship and drowning
Yo Ho Ho – An expression of cheer

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this pirate cozy? There are more seasonal, holiday and just for fun cozies in the store in our Crochet Cup Cozy eBook. We’ve created an entire collection with 28 designs one ebook.

Looking for the cup and mug version? They’re in the ebook.

Each design in the ebook has instructions to fit Mugs, Cups and Mason Jars. Every design has a delicious recipe or fun craft.

All 3 pirates pictured at the beginning of this post are in this ebook! AND the ebook includes 4 new designs – Dracula, Vampire, Mummy and Blue Jeans.

Available in the StoreRead more about the set:

Blog: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Store: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Filed Under: Cozy, Cup Cozies, Mason Jar Series, Patterns for FREE, Recipe · Tagged With: , , ,

Miner for Halloween

August 26, 2013 by ·

Miner for Halloween

Miner Trick or Treating

If you’re looking for a quick and cute costume to crochet for Halloween, we’d suggest the Miner Set. Miner Set pattern on Etsy.

With just a hard hat and a stick of dynamite, your crocheting is done. The hard hat has an adjustable band making it one-size-fits-all. The rest of the costume is pretty easy, too. Grab a pair of overalls or jeans, a flannel shirt and some boots and you’re good to go. Oh…and don’t forget to smear a bit of dirt on your cheeks!

Here are more pictures of my nephew with the Miner Set. He’s about 15 months old in these photos. Miner Set on Etsy.

Blasting the Box

Here he is playing with the blasting box.

throwing dynamite

Fire in the hole…here’s the little guy tossing a stick of dynamite.

Mother and Son Miners

Mom gets into the Halloween spirit, too. Here they are holding the Mummy Trick or Treat Bag.

Learn more about these crochet patterns:

Filed Under: Halloween · Tagged With: , , ,

Skull Pattern for Fauxchet Hook Rugging

August 23, 2013 by ·

Skull Pattern for Fauxchet Hook Rugging

skull patternThis skull pattern was our first attempt to hook rug with the easyloop fauxchet tool.

We haven’t hook rugged for years….maybe even decades (that makes us sound old)! But it brings back fond memories of craft times with our mom and special pillows she made for us.

Skull Pattern

This skull and cross bone image we charted for this pattern would make a fun “keep out” sign for a child’s door or a fun pillow for his or her room. We considered creating a rug for a high traffic area.

Supplies:

  • Easyloop fauxchet tool
  • Latch Rug Canvas
  • Yarn – 2 skeins
    (Pictured: Red Heart Super Saver – Light Raspberry, Tea Leaf)
  • Marker
  • Skull Chart

back of hook rugInstructions:

  1. Referring to the skull chart, color all the “BL” bars with a marker. You now have two tones drawn out on your canvas.
  2. Select your yarn color and start hooking! If you are using the easyloop tool, start at the top left corner (for right handed). With traditional hook rugging, you’ll start at the bottom.
  3. Optional: cut loops and trim to desired length.

NOTE: If using the larger mesh and worsted weight yarn, try double stranded hooking with the easyloop tool to create a fuller rug.

Our Thoughts on Hook Rugging with the easyloop tool

Hook rugging is super easy with the easyloop tool. Since the technique uses a skein of yarn instead of individually cut lengths of yarn, hook rugging goes a lot faster! I love crafting…but I’m all about finishing projects quickly so I can start the next one!

fauxchet promo videoThe technique is very similar to fauxchet, but instead of going through loops, you are fauxcheting around the bar in the canvas.

This fauxchet video will show you the basic use of the fauxchet tool. And when you purchase the tool, there are instructions and videos for hook rugging.

Pros of hook rugging with the easyloop tool

  • Easy to learn
  • Fast
  • Less mess with using skeins instead of cut yarn
  • Creates loops instead of cut ends
  • More color choices available since skeins are used instead of cut yarn
  • Can create a mix of loops and cut yarn as desired

Cons of hook rugging with the easyloop tool

  • Creates loops instead of cut ends
  • Can knot up if tool is wrapped around bar wrong
  • Challenging to create loops of consistent sizes

I’m already dreaming about my next hook rug project. I’m definitely going to be using the easyloop tool. If you love to hook rug, you’ve got to try this tool!

More Fauxchet

To learn more about the easyloop tool, visit fauxchet.com.

Read our initial product review of the easyloop fauxchet tool.

Check out our FREE Fauxchet Patterns.

Filed Under: Fauxchet, Latch Hook Rug, Patterns for FREE · Tagged With: , ,

Dishie Fauxchet Patterns

August 21, 2013 by ·

Dishie Fauxchet Patterns

Dish clothes are great projects for learning how to Fauxchet. In fact, these were some of the first projects we made.

fauxchet dishies

As we mentioned in our product review of the easyloop fauxchet tool, any pattern that uses a chain, slip stitch or single crochet can be made with the easyloop tool. The patterns below will list the abbreviation for both crochet and fauxchet.

dishie on sink

The dishies in these fauxchet patterns measure approximately 6”x6”. We love the smaller size for getting into cups and such.

Skill Level: Easy

Stitches Used: Chain (ch), slip stitch (sl st), single fauxchet (sf), single crochet (sc)

Techniques Used: fauxchet/crochet in rows, fauxceht/crochet in the round

FAUXCHET PATTERN 1: V-Stitch Dishie

The v-stitch is widely used in crochet…and is easy to fauxchet as well.

v-stitch dishie

Materials List:

  • Easyloop fauxchet tool (or Crochet Hook: H/8/5.00mm)
  • Lily Sugar’n Cream worsted weight (4) cotton
    HOT PURPLE
  • Yarn Needle for sewing

V-Stitch Dishie Fauxchet Pattern

Ch 17

Row 1: In 3rd ch from tool work *sf(sc), ch 1, sf(sc), skip 2 ch* across.

Row 2-17: Ch 2, turn. *In ch-1 sp work sf(sc), ch 1, sf(sc), skip 2 sts* across.

Rnd 18: Sf(sc) around all four sides of dishie. Join with sl st. Weave in ends.

FAUXCHET PATTERN 2: Mini Blocks Dishie

Another popular crochet pattern is mini blocks. Again, an excellent project for learning the easyloop fauxchet tool.

mini blocks dishie

Materials List:

  • Easyloop fauxchet tool (or Crochet Hook: H/8/5.00mm)
  • Lily Sugar’n Cream worsted weight (4) cotton
    LAVENDER
  • Yarn Needle for sewing

Mini Blocks Dishie Fauxchet Pattern

Ch 23

Row 1: Sf(sc) in 6th ch from tool, sf(sc) *ch 2, skip 2 ch, 2 sf(sc)* across. End with ch 2, skip 2 ch, 1 sf(sc).

Row 2: Ch 1, turn. *2 sf(sc) on ch-2 sp, ch 2, skip 2 sts* across. End with 2 sf(sc).

Row 3: Ch 3. *Skip 2 sts, 2 sf(sc), ch 2* across. End with skip 2 sts, 1 sf(sc).

Rows 4-18: Repeat Rows 2 & 3 alternately.

Rnd 19: Sf(sc) around all four sides of dishie. Join with sl st. Weave in ends.

More Fauxchet

To learn more about the easyloop fauxchet tool, visit the fauxchet website.

PDF’s of our Free Fauxchet Patterns are available on the Free Fauxchet Patterns page.

Filed Under: Fauxchet, Kitchen, Patterns for FREE · Tagged With: , , ,

Crochet Bear Cozy and Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers

August 16, 2013 by ·

Crochet Bear Cozy and Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers

crochet bear and chocolate covered grahams

This crochet bear mason jar cozy is not only super cute, but it will keep an eye on the snacks you store like these chocolate covered graham crackers. This bear will keep lookout for any hungry critters in your household that might snatch a treat when you aren’t looking.

This is a beary sweet gift idea. We’ve made a list of fun “beary” greetings below.

Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers Recipe

chocolate grahams

We’ll get to the crochet bear in a minute. First, let’s make this super easy chocolate covered graham cracker recipe.

This is a wonderful last minute dessert idea. Perfect for gatherings where finger foods are on the menu.

Ingredients & Supplies:

  • 8 graham crackers
  • 4 oz. melting chocolate
  • 1 Tablespoon peanut butter
  • 2 oz. white melting chocolate
  • Aluminum foil lined cookie sheet
  • 2 mason jars for storing

Directions:

  1. chocolate covered graham crackersBreak graham crackers into pieces (4 pieces per graham) and lay out on a cookie sheet.
  2. Melt 4 oz. of chocolate in microwave stirring every 30 seconds. Do not over heat. When chocolate is mostly melted and a little lumpy, stir until smooth.
  3. Stir peanut butter into chocolate.
  4. Dip 2/3 of each graham into chocolate/peanut butter mixture. Scrape off excess and lay on aluminum foil to cool and harden.
  5. Melt 2 oz. of white melting chocolate in microwave stirring every 30 seconds. Do not over heat. When chocolate is mostly melted and a little lumpy, stir until smooth.
  6. Drizzle white chocolate over grahams. Allow to cool and harden.
  7. When chocolates are hardened, remove from foil and scrape off excess drizzle.
  8. Store in mason jar.

Crochet Bear Cozy

crochet bearThis crochet bear cozy makes a great gift. Fill a mason jar with snacks and trickets and you’ve got a beary special gift. Here are a few fun greetings for special occasions:

  • I Love You Beary Much
  • You’re Beary Special
  • For a Beary Special Son (or daughter or other relation)
  • Get Well Beary Soon
  • I’m Beary Sorry
  • A Beary Happy Birthday
  • Beary Christmas
  • I Miss You Beary Much

Skill Level: Easy

Stitches Used: chain, slip stitch, single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet

Techniques Used: crochet in rows, crochet in the round, increase, deacrease

Crochet Bear Cozy Supplies:

  • Vanna’s Choice Yarn: worsted weight (4)
    Brown Bear: CHOCOLATE, HONEY, BLACK, BEIGE
    (Golden Bear: HONEY, BEIGE, BLACK)
    (Black Bear: ESPRESSO, CHOCOLATE, BLACK, BEIGE)
  • Hook: H/8/5.00mm
  • Yarn Needle for Sewing
  • Stuffing

Crochet Bear Cozy Instructions

  • Chocolate
  • Hook: H

Ch 34, join with a sl st.

Rnd 1-10: Sc around. (34)

Sl St. Finish off. Weave in end.

crochet bear

Snout Instructions

  • Honey
  • Hook: H

Ch 9

Row 1: Hdc in 3rd ch from hook (count the first two chains as a hdc), 6 hdc. (8)

Row 2: Ch 1, turn, hdc dec, 4 hdc, hdc dec. (6)

Row 3: Ch 1, turn. Hdc dec, 2 hdc, hdc dec. (4)

Rnd 4: Sc all the way around the snout (a sc in each st and on the end of each Row). Join with a sl st. (16)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

Nose Instructions

  • Black
  • Hook: H

Ch 2

Rnd 1: In the 2nd ch from hook work 2 sc, 2 dc, 2 sc, 2 dc. Join with a sl st. (8)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

EYES INSTRUCTIONS (Make 2)

  • Black
  • Hook: H

Ch 2

Rnd 1: 10 sc in 2nd ch from hook. Join with a sl st. (10)

Finish of leaving a long tail for sewing.

3 bearsEAR INSTRUCTIONS (Make 2)

  • Chocolate
  • Hook: H

Ch 2

Rnd 1: 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook. (6)

Rnd 2: Sc inc around. (12)

Rnd 3: *3 sc, sc inc* around. (15)

Rnd 4-5: Sc around. (15)

Rnd 6: *3 sc, sc dec* around. (12)

Rnd 7: *1 sc, sc dec* around. (8)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

Assembly Instructions

  1. Pin Snout to bottom of the cozy. Stuff lightly. Sew. Weave in ends.
  2. Pin then sew Nose to center of Snout. Weave in ends.
  3. Embroider a mouth below Nose. Weave in ends.
  4. Embroider reflective spots on the Eyes with the beige yarn. Weave in ends.
  5. Pin then sew Eyes above the Snout. Weave in ends.
  6. Pin then sew Ears to the sides. Weave in ends.

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this bear cozy? There are more seasonal, holiday and just for fun cozies in the store in our Crochet Cup Cozy eBook. We’ve created an entire collection with 28 designs one ebook.

Looking for the cup and mug version? They’re in the ebook.

Each design in the ebook has instructions to fit Mugs, Cups and Mason Jars. Every design has a delicious recipe or fun craft.

All 3 bears pictured at the beginning of this post are in this ebook! AND the ebook includes 4 new designs – Dracula, Vampire, Mummy and Blue Jeans.

Available in the StoreRead more about the set:

Blog: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Store: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Filed Under: Animals, Cozy, Cup Cozies, Great as Gifts, Mason Jar Series, Patterns for FREE · Tagged With: , ,

Product Review: easyloop Fauxchet Tool

August 11, 2013 by ·

Product Review: easyloop® Fauxchet® Tool

fauxchetThere’s a new fiber arts tool hitting the market. Did you see it highlighted in the Autumn 2013 Crochet! Magazine (page 8)? We did..and we were intrigued! We were given a couple of the new easyloop® fauxchet® tools to review…and here’s what we thought:

Fauxchet® is Easy to Learn

Fauxchet® is super easy to learn. My sister and I were Fauxcheting in minutes thanks to the detailed instruction booklet and videos! We showed several friends (knitters and crocheters) how the easyloop® tool works and they picked it up super quick too.

I’ve taught friends how to crochet, knit and Fauxchet® and I have to say, Fauxchet® is, by far, the easiest craft for people to learn.

fauxchet promo video

The Art of Fauxchet™ instruction booklet (free with purchase) is full of tips and tricks for mastering the easyloop® tool. There are a ton of photos with step-by-step instructions. The how-to videos are helpful for those who need to see it in action. You’ll be impressed with how easy it is to learn.

Practice Makes Perfect

Though Fauxchet® is easy to learn…it takes a bit of practice to master. That should be no surprise, since all fiber arts skills take time. Making each stitch consistent in size is the key to making a nice looking fabric and there are tips in the instructions booklet to help you learn how to do that.

fauxchet trivetWith a bit of practice, you’ll create “muscle memory”, which is a fancy way of saying your hands will learn to move smoothly and consistently as it makes each stitch. Don’t rush the process. We recommend that you make a couple of swatches before starting your first pattern. One of our first projects was a trivet. Another was a market bag.

What the easyloop® Fauxchet® Tool Does

As soon as we were comfortable using the easyloop®  tool, we were curious to learn as much as we could about everything it can do. Here’s what we learned:

It creates a loose drapey fabric which is a reflection of how the tool is to be used…with a relaxed grip so the yarn can glide through the tool smoothly and easily. I tend to crochet rather tightly, so it was a bit of a mind shift for me to relax and make what felt like large stitches.

Fauxchet® is similar to crochet in that you insert the tool through loops. With Fauxchet® you generally work across your work from left to right (if you’re right handed) which is opposite from how crochet is worked. However, depending on the project, it is possible to work in either direction. The fabric it can make looks similar to crochet and knitted stockinette (when turned sideways).

fauxchet swatches

Stitches you can make include: chain, slip stitch, single fauxchet® (comparable to single crochet) and the loop stitch.

Techniques you can do include: increase, decrease, work in rows and in the round, work in front, back or both loops.

Other things you can do include: hook rugging, beaded fauxchet®, edging your work, joining motifs, top stitching (comparable to crochet chain embroidery).

A lot of crochet patterns use these stitches and techniques, so it would be easy to convert them into a fauxchet® project! In fact, we did just that and will be sharing a couple of free fauxchet® patterns on our blog.

Pros and Cons for the easyloop® Tool

easyloop fauxchet toolHere’s what we like about the easyloop® tool:

  • easy to learn the basics
  • easy to learn the advanced techniques
  • easy to hold the tension yarn
  • easy to make edging
  • easy to add beads
  • economical to buy
  • great resources – instruction booklet and videos
  • relaxing to use
  • dropped stitches don’t unravel the work
  • no hook end to snag on stitches or yarn
  • easy to work with two strands of yarn at once

Here are a few limitations of the easyloop® tool:

  • doesn’t make tall stitches like double or treble crochet
  • dropped stitches create large loops in work
  • recommended for worsted or bulky weight yarn only
  • tool is stuck in middle of the skein if project is frogged (ripped out) part way or if you want to use a different tool (you must cut your yarn to get your tool out of the skein)
  • if you pull on the wrong side of the yarn the tool gets stuck (easier to understand when you are first learning)

As you can see, the pros out weigh the cons.

If you like playing with new tools and gadgets…you should try this tool. If you’re a knitter who thinks crochet it too hard, you should try this tool. If you teach fiber arts classes or seminars, you should try this tool. If you are the type of person who frequently switches between projects (be it knitting, crocheting or loom knitting) than you should try this tool. In short, if you’re a Yarnivore like us, you’ll want to see  for yourself what the  easyloop® tool can do.

Learn More About Fauxchet®

easyloop fauxchet toolThe easyloop® Fauxchet® tool retails for only $9.99 and will come with an instruction booklet (starting August 19) and access to The Art of Fauxchet™ instruction booklet as well as several how-to videos.

Visit the Fauxchet website to learn more.

Look for the tool at your local yarn shop.

Filed Under: Fauxchet · Tagged With: , ,

Captain America Crochet Cozy

August 2, 2013 by ·

Captain American Crochet Cozy

cup cozies permission pending

Captain America makes for another great movie night crochet cozy. This is a fun and easy way to make your kids feel special. Buy a box of their favorite candy (Buncha Crunch in my case), pop in the movie and enjoy a bit of family time together.

This cozy makes for a great cup cozy, too.

Captain American Cozy Supplies:

  • Vanna’s Choice – worsted weight yarn (4)
    Colonial Blue, Cranberry, White, Black
  • Hook: H/8/5.00 mm
    Hook: F/5/3.75 mm
    Hook : C/2/2.75 mm
  • Yarn needle for sewing
  • Stuffing
  • Mason Jar

Captain American Crochet Cozy Pattern

Though this Captain American cozy utilizes several crochet techniques, it really is quite simple to make.

Skill Level: Easy

Stitches Used: Chain, Slip Stitch, Single Crochet, Half Double Crochet, Double Crochet

Techniques Used: Crochet in the Round, Crochet in Rows, Increase, Crochet in Back Loop, Crochet in Both Loops

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this Captain America cozy? There are more seasonal, holiday and just for fun cozies in the store in our Crochet Cup Cozy eBook. We’ve created an entire collection with 28 designs one ebook.

Each design in the ebook has instructions to fit Mugs, Cups and Mason Jars. Every design has a delicious recipe or fun craft.

Available in the StoreRead more about the set:

Blog: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Store: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Filed Under: Cozy, Cup Cozies, Mason Jar Series, Patterns for FREE · Tagged With: ,

Crochet Stars Pattern & Tutorial

July 29, 2013 by ·

Crochet Star Pattern & Tutorial

We’ve played around with crochet stars for various projects. Each star has it’s own unique shape…and you just never know when you’ll need one design over another.

crochet stars

The stars above were crocheted with an H/8/5.00 mm hook using Vanna’s Choice: Mustard (worsted weight). We often crochet them with a C/2/2.75 mm to get a smaller star with tighter stitches.

Let’s take a closer look at each one.

Crochet Star Pattern Tutorial

A couple of these stars require you to slip stitch into the top of a previous stitch. See the tutorial below for more information on how to do that.

Large Crochet Star Pattern

large starThis star could perhaps double as a sun. The holes that you see in this star actually disappear or become less visible if a smaller hook is used than what is recommended on the yarn label.

As seen on: Lid of the Flag in the Cup Cozy Collection.

Size: 2 3/4″ (2.75 inches)

  • Worsted Weight Yarn
  • Hook: H
  • Ch 2
  • Rnd 1: 10 hdc in 2nd ch from hook. Join with a sl st. (10)
  • Rnd 2: In back loops only, sl st into next st. (work next group in the same st as sl st you just worked) * work: ch 2, dc, ch 1, sl st into top of dc, ch 2, sl st. 2 sl sts into next sts of Rnd 1* around.
  • Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

 

“Starfish” Crochet Star Pattern

starfish starEach point of this star is constructed from the chain stitch…giving it a more fluid look.

Size: 2″ (2 inches)

  • Worsted Weight Yarn
  • Hook: H
  • NOTE: The 1st ch made is the “base ch”.
  • Ch 5
  • Rnd 1: Sl st in 2nd ch from hook, ch 2, sl st into base ch. (first point made). *Ch 4, sl st in 2nd ch from hook, ch 2, sl st into base ch* 4 times.
  • Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

 

 

 

Solid Crochet Star Pattern

solid starThis star is petite yet beefy all at the same time.

Size: 1 1/4″ (1.25 inches)

  • Worsted Weight Yarn
  • Hook: H
  • NOTE: The 1st ch made is the “base ch”.
  • Ch 2
  • Rnd 1: Sc in 2nd ch (base ch) from hook, ch 1, sl st in top of sc, sc in base ch. *Sc in base ch, ch 1, sl st in top of sc, sc in base ch* 4 times.
  • Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

 

 

 

Classic 5 Pointed Crochet Star Pattern

small starThis star is very classic with 5 pointed ends and no holes in the center ring.

As seen on: Captain American Cup Cozy.

Size: 1 1/2″ (1.5 inches)

  • Worsted Weight Yarn
  • Hook: H
  • Ch 3, join with a sl st.
  • Rnd 1: Sl st into ring. *Ch 3, sl st in 2nd ch from hook, ch 1, sl st into ring* 5 times.
  • Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

 Slip Stitch to Make a Point Tutorial

A couple of these crocheted stars ask you to slip stitch into the top of the previous single crochet (or double crochet). This will make a nice point on your star. The loop(s) you grab will give effect the way your star looks.

Here’s how we worked our Solid Star:

work a sl st on top of a sc

After you chain 1, insert your hook through the front loop of the single crochet, then the side loop of the single crochet (where the blue marker is hooked in the photo above). Yarn over and slip thought all loops on the hook.

Working through the front loop and the side of the stitch will help your stitches lay nice and flat.

Other Uses of These Star Patterns

We’ve used these star patterns on numerous projects.

 

apple dumplings recipe

  • Mug Cozy uses Large Star – Hook H
  • Mason Jar Lid uses Large Star – Hook H
  • Cup Cozy uses Classic 5 Point star – Hook C

For more information about our cozies:

 

Filed Under: Appliques, Patterns for FREE, Tips & Tricks · Tagged With: ,

The Plastic Challenge

July 25, 2013 by ·

What would you create if you had to incorporate plastic into a fiber arts project?

Four of us (friends from a Starbucks knit/crochet group) took up the challenge and crocheted four very different projects. Other group members who didn’t submit items where the honorary judges.

Plastic Challenge

The Plastic Challenge Rules:

  1. The project had to be crocheted or knitted.
  2. Accents of other mixed media was acceptable.
  3. Plastic had to be incorporated into the piece in a significant way.
  4. Open to contestants of any age.

FIRST PLACE:

Piggy Bank – By: Deborah

piggy bank upcycling

Upcycling for Change…this piggy bank incorporated a cup that one of our beverages came in!

Does this little piggy look familiar? It’s a modified version of our Pork Chop crochet pattern.

Pork Chop pattern available on Etsy.

SECOND PLACE:

Panda – By: Island (age 11)

panda

Hands down, this project incorporated the most plastic elements in the bunch. This is a fun trash-to-treasure art piece. Who knew that pandas love plastic?

THIRD PLACE:

The final entries tied for third.

Granny Menu & Bag Keeper with Coordinating Coupon Purse – By: Dana

granny bag keeper and purse

Nostalgic and useful, the Menu Keeper holds a weekly menu between two transparency sheets while the tufted granny square pocket in the back stores plastic grocery bags. Crocheted with similar construction, the granny purse has two pockets for holding coupons.

Strawberry Writing Box – By: Alice

strawberry box open and closed

This bedazzled strawberry container is now a felted stationary box. It’s the perfect size for storing greeting cards, pens and stamps.

Another Challenge

The plastic challenge, though a little quirky, turned out to be surprisingly fun. It was interesting to see how very different everyone’s projects were.

The gauntlet has been dropped and another fun challenge has begin. Stay tuned for our next fiber contest.

Filed Under: Challenges & Contests · Tagged With: , , , ,
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