Trip to NY Project

In one week I will be flying with the kids to NY by myself! I did this same trip last year but my daughter was less mobile and smaller; should be an interesting time. I am looking for an easy project to work on while I am out there and need your help deciding.

The first two are blankets that I was thinking I could make large enough for a twin or full sized bed for my daughter and the last two could be photo props for upcoming newborn shoots.

Summer Garden Granny Square by Lucy of Attic24 

Source: ravelry.com via Sarah on Pinterest

Neapolitan Ripple by Michelle Tang

 

Source: greetingarts.typepad.com via Sarah on Pinterest

The Baby Cozy by Jennifer Pedersen-Giles

Source: windrosefiberstudio.blogspot.com via Sarah on Pinterest

And last but not least - a knitting project.

Baby Envelope by Joanna Johnson

Source: ravelry.com via Sarah on Pinterest

I love the granny square blanket but worry it might not be mindless enough for vacation since I have never attempted one!

Another Cocoon Idea

Here is a picture from the weekend newborn shoot I did. This is using a larger sized cocoon (two more rounds of increases) and the mom was holding the cocoon from the top. If you want to see more of my photos you can check them out here.

The link to the original pattern is found here.

Crochet Sausage Links Pattern

You made have heard (or read) that my family loves sausage! My kids wanted to help but clearly couldn't with raw pork involved so I came up with this solution. Now they can help make and cook sausage. 

Crochet Sausage Links Pattern
Hook: US F5/3.75mm
Yarn: Worsted weight. I used Red Heart Eco-Ways in Cinnabar.

 

Step 1:  Chain 5
Step 2:  6 Single Crochet (SC) in second stitch from the hook, join with slip stitch to create circle (6 stitches)
Step 3:  2 SC in each stitch  (12 stitches)
Step 4:  1 SC in next stitch, 2 SC in next stitch - repeat around (18 stitches)
Step 5:  SC each round until you get the desired length of sausage (18 stitches)
Step 6:  To start decrease: 1 SC in next stitch, Single Crochet 2 stitches together (SC2tog), repeat around (12 stitches)
Step 7:  SC2tog around (6 stitches)
Step 8:  SC2tog around (3 stitches)
Step 9: Chain 5

Repeat Steps 2 - 9 until you have the desired number of sausage links.
I took some stash yarn and tied little bows since in my mind that is how sausages look, even though we personally don't make sausage like that.

Sausage Links by Sarah Boccolucci is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.

Something Is Brewing

Without going into a ton of detail, I just submitted a design for a crochet book. I have had this idea for a while and I was able to flush it out today. Luckily the deadline is near so I won't have to wait too long to find out if the publisher likes it. If they pass on the idea, have no fear I will find a home for it.

Tunisian Crochet Camera Strap

About 6 years ago my mom sent me a bag of strange looking crochet hooks that on first glance I thought were knitting needles. Having no clue what they were for I put them away - way, way, way back in my closet. I learned what they were really for about a year ago and since then I have had "Learn To Tunisian Crochet" on my list of new techniques to learn.

First thing I did was watch a couple YouTube videos on Tunisian crochet and then I bought the book Tunisian Crochet: The Look of Knitting with the East of Crocheting, by Sharon Hernes Silverman. After having the book sit on my shelf for a couple month I finally got motivated to give it a shot.

Using the basic Tunisian simple stitch, also known as the Afghan stitch, I made myself a camera strap cover. With some trial and error I found the right width to fit my strap.

Materials:
Size 6 Tunisian Crochet Hook
Worsted Weight Yarn - I used Malabrigo - Hummingbird
Understanding of Tunisian Simple Stitch

Gauge: 6 stitches per inch

Instructions:

• Create a foundation row of 20 stitches - I would recommend testing the width after a couple of rows to make sure it fits your specific strap
• Work TSS for the entire length of strap
• Turn work with right sides facing each other
• I used a crocheted slip stitch to seam the edge
• Turn half your strap inside out and work camera strap into cover
• Unfold strap and pull the second half through

Little Crochet by Linda Permann

I never win anything. Until last week...

The stars aligned and I was the winner of the Slate Falls Press giveaway for Little Crochet by Linda Permann.

Going through the book this afternoon I found myself saying over and over again, "I think I will make this first." I love so many of the patterns but think I narrowed it down to:

The Hooded Capelet,  Sock It To Me Sweater Vest  OR  Swing Set Sweater

 

All the patterns seem easy to read and good for beginner-intermediate crocheters. I might even try my hand at reading charts. Definitely will keep you posted on future works-in-progress. My Ravelry queue keeps getting longer and longer!

Cocktails and Craft Challenge and Giveaway

Are you ready for some crafty challenge awesomeness? Join me for the Dollar Store Craft Challenge and have a chance to win an adorable crochet or knitting pattern from HandMadeAwards. Look at these cute rabbit pattern they offer - perfect for Easter!

 

 

Details:
Create something you love using items purchased at your local Dollar Store. Your total purchase should be under $10. You can use items you already have at your house (scrap fabric, yarn, scissors, sewing machine, drill, glue) but the main items for your project have to be purchased at the Dollar Store. 

Link up your project below and a panel of guest judges will pick a winner. Be sure to mention how much you spent and tutorials are encouraged. 

We will also have one winner picked at random from our followers. So if you don't feel like being crafty but want a chance to win one of the patterns, become a follower and/or join me on Facebook.  Leave a comment letting me know you would like to participate in the drawing. 

Looking for some inspiration? Check out the site Dollar Store Crafts. They have projects and tutorials that show how incredibly talented and resourceful people are. 

Winners will be selected on Friday, April 22nd. Go get your Dollar Store Craft on! 
 

Perfectly Paired Girl's Dress - Crochet Pattern

Perfectly Paired Girl's Dress

I have been wanting to make G a dress that combined crochet and fabric. I love crochet/knit dresses for her but if we are being honest here, I am wanted something faster because I can be lazy. I thought of making a formal pattern but 1) I didn't take super great notes when I was creating it and 2) I don't have the time to create a bunch in varying sizes. So consider this a semi-tutorial and do with it as you will.

Materials:
I used cotton yarn and cotton fabric. 

I think I used a size 5.5 mm/I hook - but the kids ran off with it so I can't confirm at the moment.
One yard of fabric
Buttons

Step 1: Measure around the chest of the gal that will be wearing this fabulous new dress

Step 2: Create a chain as long as your measurement from Step 1 and then add an inch or two - depending on how loose you want it.

Step 3: I did three rows of single crochet

Step 4: Decide where you want the button holes to be and then single crochet to that stop, chain 2, skip two stitches and continue. When you get to same spot on the opposite end, chain 2, skip two stitches and continue with single crochet to the end. Add another row or two of single crochet and bind off.

Step 5: Fold your rectangle in half to find the middle. Decide how wide you want the apron top to be and pick up equal amounts of stitches on each side.  I did two rows of single crochet

Step 6: Sc2tog on the first two and last two stitches of each row. This will create the taper. Repeat this until you have the top to your desired width. I then added two more rows of single crochet. Bind off.

Step 7: I used a contrasting color and picked up stitches along the edge. I just used a simple single crochet edge. Bind off. 

There the crochet part is finished! My sewing skills are pretty basic so I needed something simple. Shall we carry-on??

Step 8: I took one yard of fabric and cut it half (selvage to selvage). Create your hem, I  added some fancy-shamancy stitches just so I could test out my new machine.

Step 9: Using my ruffler foot (or a gathering technique) I created a gather along the top edge. I then went along the top with my pinking shears to prevent fraying.

Step 10: Sew the top of the skirt to the bottom of the crocheted bodice using a straight stitch on my machine. I just laid the bodice on top of the fabric and pinned - not right sides together like you would normally do with sewing. Sew up the back seam until you reach the bodice. Sew up the bodice using your preferred method, I used a slip stitch. Weave in ends.

Step 11: To create the straps I made double-fold bias tape and top stitched around. To get the length I measured G from the top of the apron to where the button holes are. I wish I had then added two inches so I could add more buttons as she grows, but that is for next time. I then sewed those to the crocheted bodice.

Step 12: Add buttons. 

Step 13: Step back and admire your hard work.

I am hoping that G can get two years out of this dress since I made it with crisscrossed straps.
If you have any questions let me know. I know this wasn't the greatest tutorial but consider it a chance to break out your artist license.

Perfectly Paired by Sarah Boccolucci is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

Simple Baby Cocoon - Photo Prop

Simple Baby Cocoon - Photo Prop

Please do not use my images to sell product in your shop. The images in your shop should reflect your own work and not the work of others! I also ask that if you do sell these in your shop that you link back to this page out of courtesy for using a free pattern.

If you are interested in purchasing a completed cocoon let me know. For $30 I will create one in the color of your choice.

I updated how the pattern was written on April 4th, 2011 to hopefully make it easier. If you have any questions be sure to either email me or let me know how to contact you in the comments section.

This pattern is worked continuously, without a seam.
Finished size - 12 inch opening, about 9 inches deep. The baby in the picture weighed about 8 lbs and was 18.5 long. 
Hook - 10 mm/P
Yarn - Bulky/12 ply  (one skein of Lions Brand Wool-Ease Chunky)
Stitch marker

Hopefully this goes without saying, but please don't leave baby in the cocoon unattended.

Chain 6 and join with slip stitch (6)
2 HDC in each stitch (12)
1 HDC in first stitch, 2 HDC in next stitch - repeat around (18)
1 HDC in next 2 stitches, 2 HDC in next stitch - repeat around (24)
1 HDC in next 3 stitches, 2 HDC in next stitch - repeat around (30)
1 HDC in next 4 stitches, 2 HDC in next stitch - repeat around (36) 
1 HDC in next 5 stitches, 2 HDC in next stitch - repeat around (42)
2 rounds if HDC (42)
In the pictures I then switched to single crochet for 2 rounds which makes it possible to thread a ribbon and change the look easily.
2 rounds of HDC OR 2 rounds of SC. (42)

If you don't have a newborn handy you might want to leave a long tail and add more if you want more coverage around the baby. I did that and I was able to add the last two rounds in about a minute.

Bind off and weave in ends.

COMING SOON! - I am planning on creating the same cocoon using fingerling or lace weight for an airier version.

If you are interested in selling these beauties consider making a donation. Half the donations from this pattern will go to St. Jude's Research Hospital.

Baby Cocoon by Sarah Boccolucci is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

Based on a work at totsandbottoms.blogspot.com.

Cat Burglar Cowl

This pattern was designed to give as a birthday gift. I wanted a simple black cowl that had some interesting textures for the edging. I hope she loves it! If you are reading this Hilary - SuRpRiSe!

Cat Burglar Cowl

Materials:
I/5.5mm hook
About 150 yards (more likely less) of worsted weight yarn
Tapestry needle to weave in ends
Stitch marker - cowl is worked in continuous rounds

Instructions:
Cast on 95 and join in circle
Round 1-3: Single crochet back loop only
Round 4: Front post single crochet around
Round 5: Double crochet around
Round 6: Single crochet back loop in first stitch, single crochet front loop in second stitch - repeat around
Repeat round 6 until you have the desired width. (Mine is 20 rows)
Round 27ish: Repeat Round 5
Round 28: Repeat Round 4
Round 29: Repeat Rounds 1-3
Bind off.
You can be done here or...
I added a Crab Stitch edging to the top and bottom. It was my first attempt at this edging and I had some trouble keeping my tension the same around but liked the results.

This is a great project to try out some new techniques.

Note to self: Black is hard to photograph!


Cat Burglar Cowl by Sarah Boccolucci is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

Baldy Baby Hat - Crochet Pattern

Tired of everyone asking you when your baby is going to grow some hair? I have the product for you!

Click Here for Baldy Baby Hat Pattern

This free crochet pattern will cover your baby's bald head with thick locks of yarn. This pattern works up incredibly fast and I hope your family gets as many laughs as mine did.

Your baby can go from this:

To this:

Baldy Baby Hat by Sarah Boccolucci is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

Love this free pattern? Consider donating via PayPal so I can keep 'em coming.

Stegosaurus Dinosaur Hat

Introducing (drum roll please) the first crochet pattern I designed - The Stegosaurus Dinosaur Hat!

Since this is my first pattern, please let me know if you see any mistakes or have any questions. My Little Man loves his new hat, at least that is what I think all that roaring is about.

Click here to download the pattern.  You can also find it on Ravelry.

 

Stegosaurus Dinosaur Hat by Sarah Boccolucci is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.

Love this free pattern? Consider donating via PayPal to keep 'em coming.

Yarn Pumpkins Don't Rot

I should be working on costumes but decided to make this cute crocheted pumpkin instead. Is it bad that I get excited when I finish a project and my son can identify the object? As I typed that I realized that maybe that made him sound a little dim-witted, which isn't what I was intending. I am sure you understand what I was trying to convey. 

The pumpkin turned out a little smaller than I had hoped but I think the pattern can be easily adjusted to make a bigger pumpkin. Here is the pattern if you are interested in making one yourself.

Crocheted Pumpkin

Okay, off to swim lessons. From the slow, deep breathing on the couch I think that means waking my little man up after he insisted he wasn't going to take a nap.

Fall Bag

Some girls like shoes or jewelry, I like coats and bags. Not to be mistaken with purses, bags must be able to carry a plethora of goods including, but not limited to; cell phone, diapers, wallet, current yarn project and camera.  Here is my latest crochet creation, the Derek bag by Che. Like the majority of the items I crochet or knit I found the pattern on Ravelry. 

This was my first attempt at lining a crocheted bag and it was a learning process. I started out with a cute nautical print canvas but after destroying that with my seam ripper I found this nice utilitarian brown in my fabric box.  I am pleased with the end results and now I have to go find a coat that coordinates with this lovely new bag.

Crocheting With Beads

Looking for a super simple, yet elegant gift to give this Christmas season? Allow me to recommend the Understated Necklace by Sharon Hanson. I found this pattern on Ravelry and was able to create it while watching one episode of Project Runway. The most time consuming part of the whole project was either picking out which beads I wanted to use or chasing the runaway beads around the floor.

Like most patterns I run across, I ended up altering it slightly. Instead of creating a loop for a button hole I opted for a toggle closure and I switched the beads up to be all the same size in a 3 - 2 - 3 pattern. I also wanted a little more space between the beads so I chained eight in between each set of beads.

This is an excellent beginner piece for those learning to crochet with beads and every time I have worn the bracelet out it gets noticed.

Sharon Hanson is the owner/designer of Knot-Cha-Cha in Portland, Oregon and kindly offers this tutorial free of charge.  Find the pattern here!

The necklace version - please ignore the coffee stain!