Showing posts with label Merino Soft. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Merino Soft. Show all posts
Headbands are nice small accessories saving us from cold and wind in any weather. They are fast to make and can become a wonderful last minute gift. Chocolate Bar Headband crochet pattern was designed exclusively for Happily Hooked magazine. And now, when copyright came back to me, it is released as a stand-alone pattern. Hope you’ll enjoy!
Scheepjes Merino Soft and Merino Soft Brush 50g (50% Wool Superwash Merino, 25% Microfiber, 25% Acrylic):
Yarn A Merino Soft 605 Hogarth x 1 skein
Yarn B Merino Soft Brush 257 Van der Leck x 1 skein
4.5mm crochet hook
Yarn needle to weave in tails
Merino Soft and Merino Soft Brush yarns are available in local Scheepjes shops and via online retailers:
beg beginning
ch chain stitch
dc (double crochet): yo, insert hook in indicated st, yo, draw up a lp, [yo, pull through 2 loops] twice.
RS right side
sc (single crochet): insert hook in indicated stitch, yo, draw up a loop, yo and pull through both loops on hook.
st(s) stitch(es)
WS wrong side
yo yarn over
*…….; rep from * to ….. work the instructions after * and then repeat that section as instructed
Purchase ads free ready-to-print pdf with full written instructions and photo-tutorial HERE on Ravelry.
An original LillaBjörnCrochet Design (Tatsiana Kupryianchyk). Copyright 2014-2019. All rights reserved. This pattern is for personal use only. It cannot be sold, redistributed or edited in any way. Translations and video-tutorials are not allowed without permission. You can sell your finished products, but you cannot use my pictures to promote them. Please, always credit me as a designer of this pattern. Thank you!
With Yarn A ch24.
Row 1 (WS): sc in second ch from the hook, sc in each ch to end (change to B in final st), turn – 23 sc
Row 2 (RS): With Yarn B, ch1, sc in first st, *ch1, skip next st, sc in next; repeat from * to end, turn – 12 sc and 11 ch-1 spaces
Row 3: Continue with Yarn B, ch1, sc in first st, *ch1, skip next ch-1 space, sc in next st; repeat from * to end (change to Yarn A in final st), turn – 12 sc and 11 ch-1 spaces
Row 4: With Yarn A, ch1, sc in first st, *dc in skipped st from 3 rows below (working in front of ch-1 spaces – here and throughout), skip ch-1 space behind dc, sc in next st; repeat from * to end, turn – 11 dc and 12 sc
Row 5: Continue with Yarn A, ch1, sc in each st to end (change to Yarn B in final st), turn – 23 sts
Row 6: With Yarn B, ch1, sc in first 2 sts, *ch1, skip next st, sc in next; repeat from * to last st, sc in last, turn – 13 sc and 10 ch-1 sps
Row 7: Continue with Yarn B, ch1, sc in first 2 sts, *ch1, skip next ch-1 space, sc in next; repeat from * to last st, sc in last (change to Yarn A), turn – 13 sc and 10 ch-1 sps
Row 8: With Yarn A, ch1, sc in first 2 sts, *dc in skipped st from 3 rows below, skip ch-1 space, sc in next st; repeat from * to last sc, sc in last, turn – 10 dc and 13 sc
Row 9: Continue with Yarn A, ch1, sc in each st to end (change to Yarn B in final st), turn – 23 sts
Repeat rows 2-9 five more times (49 rows in total)
Repeat rows 2-3 once more (51 rows in total)
First half
Row 52: With Yarn A, ch1, sc in first st, *dc in skipped st from 3 rows below, skip ch-1 space behind dc, sc in next st; repeat from * 4 more times, turn – 5 dc and 6 sc
Row 53: Continue with Yarn A, ch1, sc in each st to end (change to B in final st), turn – 11 sts
Repeat Rows 6-9 once more – 11 sts
Repeat Rows 2-9 once more – 11 sts
Repeat rows 2-3 once more (16 rows in total). Fasten off and cut both yarns.
Second half
With RS facing you attach Yarn A with ss in fist sc on Row 51 after first half.
Row 52: With Yarn A, ch1, sc in same st as join, *dc in skipped st from 3 rows below, skip ch-1 space behind dc, sc in next st; repeat from * 4 more times, turn – 5 dc and 6 sc
Row 53: Continue with Yarn A, ch1, sc in each st to end (change to Yarn B in final st), turn – 11 sts
Repeat Rows 6-9 once more – 11 sts
Repeat Rows 2-9 once more – 11 sts
Repeat rows 2-3 once more and change to Yarn A in final st, don’t fasten off! – 16 rows in total
Putting both halves together
Flip first half over second one (use a sewing pin to hold them together) and crochet next row on the top of both half beginning on the second one:
With Yarn A, ch1, sc in fist st, *dc in skipped st from 3 rows below, skip ch-1 space behind dc, sc in next st; repeat from * 4 more times, 2sc in first st of the first half, *dc in skipped st from two rows below, skip ch-1 space behind dc, sc in next st; repeat from * to end, turn – 10 dc and 13 sc
Next row: Continue with Yarn A, ch1, sc in each st to end (change to Yarn B in final st), turn – 23 sts.
TIP: To adjust the length of the band make more or less rows on the next part. If you adjust the length, please, make sure the band is finished either with Row 4 or Row 8. This will help to make the seam invisible.
Repeat rows 6-9 once more – 23 sts
Repeat Rows 2-9 five times – 23 sts
Repeat Rows 2-4 once more, fasten off and cut both yarn leaving approx. 40cm tail of Yarn A.
Finishing
Work evenly with Yarn A and sc along both edges of the band. Insert the hook under the floats of yarn on the edge to hide them. To begin, attach Yarn A with ss under the flap, ch1, sc in same st as join and continue to crochet with sc until you come to flap again, fasten off. Repeat for another edge. Weave in all tails.
Purchase ads free ready-to-print pdf with full written instructions and photo-tutorial HERE on Ravelry.
Subscribe to a newsletter not to miss a single post. You can also follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram.
Materials
Scheepjes Merino Soft and Merino Soft Brush 50g (50% Wool Superwash Merino, 25% Microfiber, 25% Acrylic):
Yarn A Merino Soft 605 Hogarth x 1 skein
Yarn B Merino Soft Brush 257 Van der Leck x 1 skein
4.5mm crochet hook
Yarn needle to weave in tails
Merino Soft and Merino Soft Brush yarns are available in local Scheepjes shops and via online retailers:
WoolWarehouse*, Deramores*, Black Sheep Wools* (all in UK with international shipping)
Caro’s Atelier* (NL and Europe)
KnottyHouse* (Canada) |
| Xenia and Barry as my beautiful models :) |
Measurements
Approx. 56cm x 11cm (22” x 4.3”)Gauge
20 sts x 22 rows = 10 x 10cm/4 x 4” with sc and 4.5mm hookAbbreviations (US crochet terms)
beg beginning
ch chain stitch
dc (double crochet): yo, insert hook in indicated st, yo, draw up a lp, [yo, pull through 2 loops] twice.
RS right side
sc (single crochet): insert hook in indicated stitch, yo, draw up a loop, yo and pull through both loops on hook.
st(s) stitch(es)
WS wrong side
yo yarn over
*…….; rep from * to ….. work the instructions after * and then repeat that section as instructed
Pattern Notes:
- Headband is worked in rows in back and forth. Change to new color on the last yarn over in the end of the row, when there are 2 loops on the hook. Colors are changed after every two rows unless otherwise stated in the pattern. Don’t cut yarn but carry it along the edge to next rows.
- Ch1 in the beg of each row doesn’t count as a st.
INSTRUCTIONS
Purchase ads free ready-to-print pdf with full written instructions and photo-tutorial HERE on Ravelry.
An original LillaBjörnCrochet Design (Tatsiana Kupryianchyk). Copyright 2014-2019. All rights reserved. This pattern is for personal use only. It cannot be sold, redistributed or edited in any way. Translations and video-tutorials are not allowed without permission. You can sell your finished products, but you cannot use my pictures to promote them. Please, always credit me as a designer of this pattern. Thank you!
With Yarn A ch24.
Row 1 (WS): sc in second ch from the hook, sc in each ch to end (change to B in final st), turn – 23 sc
Row 2 (RS): With Yarn B, ch1, sc in first st, *ch1, skip next st, sc in next; repeat from * to end, turn – 12 sc and 11 ch-1 spaces
Row 3: Continue with Yarn B, ch1, sc in first st, *ch1, skip next ch-1 space, sc in next st; repeat from * to end (change to Yarn A in final st), turn – 12 sc and 11 ch-1 spaces
Row 4: With Yarn A, ch1, sc in first st, *dc in skipped st from 3 rows below (working in front of ch-1 spaces – here and throughout), skip ch-1 space behind dc, sc in next st; repeat from * to end, turn – 11 dc and 12 sc
Row 5: Continue with Yarn A, ch1, sc in each st to end (change to Yarn B in final st), turn – 23 sts
Row 6: With Yarn B, ch1, sc in first 2 sts, *ch1, skip next st, sc in next; repeat from * to last st, sc in last, turn – 13 sc and 10 ch-1 sps
Row 7: Continue with Yarn B, ch1, sc in first 2 sts, *ch1, skip next ch-1 space, sc in next; repeat from * to last st, sc in last (change to Yarn A), turn – 13 sc and 10 ch-1 sps
Row 8: With Yarn A, ch1, sc in first 2 sts, *dc in skipped st from 3 rows below, skip ch-1 space, sc in next st; repeat from * to last sc, sc in last, turn – 10 dc and 13 sc
Row 9: Continue with Yarn A, ch1, sc in each st to end (change to Yarn B in final st), turn – 23 sts
Repeat rows 2-9 five more times (49 rows in total)
Repeat rows 2-3 once more (51 rows in total)
Division of the band
First half
Row 52: With Yarn A, ch1, sc in first st, *dc in skipped st from 3 rows below, skip ch-1 space behind dc, sc in next st; repeat from * 4 more times, turn – 5 dc and 6 sc
Row 53: Continue with Yarn A, ch1, sc in each st to end (change to B in final st), turn – 11 sts
Repeat Rows 6-9 once more – 11 sts
Repeat Rows 2-9 once more – 11 sts
Repeat rows 2-3 once more (16 rows in total). Fasten off and cut both yarns.
Second half
With RS facing you attach Yarn A with ss in fist sc on Row 51 after first half.
Row 52: With Yarn A, ch1, sc in same st as join, *dc in skipped st from 3 rows below, skip ch-1 space behind dc, sc in next st; repeat from * 4 more times, turn – 5 dc and 6 sc
Row 53: Continue with Yarn A, ch1, sc in each st to end (change to Yarn B in final st), turn – 11 sts
Repeat Rows 6-9 once more – 11 sts
Repeat Rows 2-9 once more – 11 sts
Repeat rows 2-3 once more and change to Yarn A in final st, don’t fasten off! – 16 rows in total
Putting both halves together
Flip first half over second one (use a sewing pin to hold them together) and crochet next row on the top of both half beginning on the second one:
With Yarn A, ch1, sc in fist st, *dc in skipped st from 3 rows below, skip ch-1 space behind dc, sc in next st; repeat from * 4 more times, 2sc in first st of the first half, *dc in skipped st from two rows below, skip ch-1 space behind dc, sc in next st; repeat from * to end, turn – 10 dc and 13 sc
Next row: Continue with Yarn A, ch1, sc in each st to end (change to Yarn B in final st), turn – 23 sts.
TIP: To adjust the length of the band make more or less rows on the next part. If you adjust the length, please, make sure the band is finished either with Row 4 or Row 8. This will help to make the seam invisible.
Repeat rows 6-9 once more – 23 sts
Repeat Rows 2-9 five times – 23 sts
Repeat Rows 2-4 once more, fasten off and cut both yarn leaving approx. 40cm tail of Yarn A.
Sew short sides of the headband using yarn tail and needle.
Finishing
Work evenly with Yarn A and sc along both edges of the band. Insert the hook under the floats of yarn on the edge to hide them. To begin, attach Yarn A with ss under the flap, ch1, sc in same st as join and continue to crochet with sc until you come to flap again, fasten off. Repeat for another edge. Weave in all tails.
Purchase ads free ready-to-print pdf with full written instructions and photo-tutorial HERE on Ravelry.
Subscribe to a newsletter not to miss a single post. You can also follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram.
Garment making is my new crochet passion. I like simple and easy shapes (but not boring) and a slightly oversized fit and look. I’ve made (and even designed myself) quite a few garments recently. And I am looking forward to learn more about shaping and sizing.
Today I would like to show you my hot off the hook sweater. I made it following the video course Get Squared by Jenny King – a crochet designer from Australia. Jenny kindly gifted me this course to try it out and maybe to write a review. And now when my sweater is completed I would like to share my thoughts and experience with you.
Get squared course is about creating garments with basic crochet granny stitch. You don’t need to be an experienced crocheter to make a unique sweater or cardigan for yourself. Jenny’s course is all about magic and it’s aimed to absolute beginners in crochet (as well as advanced makers who would like to learn a new method of creating garments).
You will need (any) yarn, 6mm crochet hook, several measurements of your body... and 10 minutes to watch the video. That’s it. Jenny has created a universal (and pretty much innovative) system of creating garments – without complicated measuring, shaping or sewing. Get Squared is a very clear, complexed and complete method explaining everything from beginning to end.
Get Squared course consists of several short videos: introduction and explanation on how to create five different garment styles – basic sweater/jumper, basic cardigan, cardigan with extended fronts, cardigan with V-neck shaping and a shrug.
Instructional videos give a very clear idea about basic shaping and with your own accents (like collar, hem, buttons, different length of sleeves) you can create endless variations of garments. You can create literally everything. And no need to mention that with 6mm hook and a “speedy” granny stitch your new garment will be made in almost no time. With some frogging and remaking it took me, guess, 9 hours in total to make my sweater.
The course will also provide you with a chart and table with measurements where you will add your own “magic numbers” – several simple measurements of your body.
I first heard about Get Squared system at last Bloggers Days when creative director of Scheepjes – Simy Somer – was showing her nearly finished crochet shrug. To be honest I am not very fond of granny stitch. I am not even sure why… Maybe because I haven’t seen many crochet designs with this stitch which look modern. But Simy’s shrug inspired me to give this system a try.
In the very beginning I made two mistakes. I don’t normally use large hooks, and I thought that for 6mm hook I should take some bulky yarn. Which is not true at all! In her video Jenny is showing cardigan made with very fine yarn. And with large hook granny stitch is getting a very nice drape. So after a little bit of swatching I put away 20 skeins of bulky wool yarn and chose Merino Soft yarn* by Scheepjes instead. The label recommends 4.5mm hook, but with 6mm hook granny shells became nicely draping.
My second mistake was wrong sizing. With Jenny’s recommendations I made necessary measurements (for a perfect fit). But after I started to crochet I felt like adding much more ease to my sweater. To make it slightly oversized. And to get an oversized effect with granny stitch you should really add enough of space.
After both mistakes were corrected everything went very fast and smooth. I loved Jenny’s videos and the way she talks to you. Her voice is very soothing, she is taking time to explain every single detail. She is using both UK and US terms in her talking, so no chance to be lost. Jenny also mentions some tips and tricks I’ve never heard of before, and her decreases for sleeves are genius! With nice background music I had a feeling as if I was talking to an old friend in my living room.
And what I really loved about Get Squared course is that video's are not long at all. It takes up to 10-12 minutes to get a complete insight into every garment style! No endless hours of watching and trying to filter important information.
After approx. 9 hours of crochet my sweater was done. First I made it much longer. But then frogged almost half of it, added knit-look hem to the bottom and sleeves, and a long tunelneck collar. I turned my sweater inside out to make back side as a front. For some reason I like it much better like this. And ta-dah! The sweater is ready!
If you got interested in Jenny’s system of creating garments you might also want to have a look at your new Kids Squared course for children's garments. The course includes video tutition as well as 21 pattern shortcuts which can be made to fit children, from babies through to pre-teens. And I am sure it will not disappoint.
My fellow blogger friends also got hooked with Jenny King designs. Nerissa of Miss Neriss has created a classy cardigan (and also published an interview with Jenny on her blog HERE). And Susan of Felted Button went very creative with shaping. Check her colorful sweater HERE.
Subscribe to a newsletter not to miss a single post. You can also follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram.
Today I would like to show you my hot off the hook sweater. I made it following the video course Get Squared by Jenny King – a crochet designer from Australia. Jenny kindly gifted me this course to try it out and maybe to write a review. And now when my sweater is completed I would like to share my thoughts and experience with you.
What is Jenny’s course Get Squared about?
Get squared course is about creating garments with basic crochet granny stitch. You don’t need to be an experienced crocheter to make a unique sweater or cardigan for yourself. Jenny’s course is all about magic and it’s aimed to absolute beginners in crochet (as well as advanced makers who would like to learn a new method of creating garments).
You will need (any) yarn, 6mm crochet hook, several measurements of your body... and 10 minutes to watch the video. That’s it. Jenny has created a universal (and pretty much innovative) system of creating garments – without complicated measuring, shaping or sewing. Get Squared is a very clear, complexed and complete method explaining everything from beginning to end.
What you'll get with Get Squared
Get Squared course consists of several short videos: introduction and explanation on how to create five different garment styles – basic sweater/jumper, basic cardigan, cardigan with extended fronts, cardigan with V-neck shaping and a shrug.
Instructional videos give a very clear idea about basic shaping and with your own accents (like collar, hem, buttons, different length of sleeves) you can create endless variations of garments. You can create literally everything. And no need to mention that with 6mm hook and a “speedy” granny stitch your new garment will be made in almost no time. With some frogging and remaking it took me, guess, 9 hours in total to make my sweater.
The course will also provide you with a chart and table with measurements where you will add your own “magic numbers” – several simple measurements of your body.
My own experience with Get Squared
I first heard about Get Squared system at last Bloggers Days when creative director of Scheepjes – Simy Somer – was showing her nearly finished crochet shrug. To be honest I am not very fond of granny stitch. I am not even sure why… Maybe because I haven’t seen many crochet designs with this stitch which look modern. But Simy’s shrug inspired me to give this system a try.
In the very beginning I made two mistakes. I don’t normally use large hooks, and I thought that for 6mm hook I should take some bulky yarn. Which is not true at all! In her video Jenny is showing cardigan made with very fine yarn. And with large hook granny stitch is getting a very nice drape. So after a little bit of swatching I put away 20 skeins of bulky wool yarn and chose Merino Soft yarn* by Scheepjes instead. The label recommends 4.5mm hook, but with 6mm hook granny shells became nicely draping.
My second mistake was wrong sizing. With Jenny’s recommendations I made necessary measurements (for a perfect fit). But after I started to crochet I felt like adding much more ease to my sweater. To make it slightly oversized. And to get an oversized effect with granny stitch you should really add enough of space.
After both mistakes were corrected everything went very fast and smooth. I loved Jenny’s videos and the way she talks to you. Her voice is very soothing, she is taking time to explain every single detail. She is using both UK and US terms in her talking, so no chance to be lost. Jenny also mentions some tips and tricks I’ve never heard of before, and her decreases for sleeves are genius! With nice background music I had a feeling as if I was talking to an old friend in my living room.
And what I really loved about Get Squared course is that video's are not long at all. It takes up to 10-12 minutes to get a complete insight into every garment style! No endless hours of watching and trying to filter important information.
After approx. 9 hours of crochet my sweater was done. First I made it much longer. But then frogged almost half of it, added knit-look hem to the bottom and sleeves, and a long tunelneck collar. I turned my sweater inside out to make back side as a front. For some reason I like it much better like this. And ta-dah! The sweater is ready!
If you got interested in Jenny’s system of creating garments you might also want to have a look at your new Kids Squared course for children's garments. The course includes video tutition as well as 21 pattern shortcuts which can be made to fit children, from babies through to pre-teens. And I am sure it will not disappoint.
My fellow blogger friends also got hooked with Jenny King designs. Nerissa of Miss Neriss has created a classy cardigan (and also published an interview with Jenny on her blog HERE). And Susan of Felted Button went very creative with shaping. Check her colorful sweater HERE.
Subscribe to a newsletter not to miss a single post. You can also follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram.
Here is something I should have shared with you long ago. If you are on Ravelry you might have spotted a new poncho design which has recently appeared on my page. It’s Winter Light Poncho, and it’s a part of a magically beautiful YARN book-a-zine* published by Scheepjes. The new edition is called Dutch Masters.
I’ve been a part of this project for two years already, but every new issue amazes me more and more. If you haven’t even heard about YARN book-a-zine you might want to check it out. It’s something in the middle between a magazine and a book. Each issue contains around 15 knitting, crochet and sewing patterns accompanied with useful articles and insights into creative process of artists and designers.
Every new issue is themed. We already had Sea Issue, Midnight Garden Issue, Tropical Issue and here is a new one – devoted to Dutch Masters. I am a little bit addicted to printed books and magazines. And though my husband is an IT specialist reading everything on his mobile phone or on electronic book reader, I still find something magical and charming about holding a real paper book in hands.
The quality of YARN book-a-zine is supreme. Thick matt paper, high quality pictures (all made according to themes and chapters, very moody and special), additional pages for your notes and flap to help you organize the projects. The book-a-zine is published in both English and Dutch.
As already mentioned, new edition is devoted to Dutch Master featuring Vermeer, Mondrian, Rembrandt and Van Gogh. And all projects were designed in color palette and with the “mood” of their paintings. The pictures were taken in amazing interiors and wonderfully translate the feel of each artist. Just amazing. And very stylish.
I was asked to design a poncho for a new issue, and though I am still not confident in garment design, I decided to take the challenge. The poncho is one size (I believe it’s good for everyone – with a slight oversize look for smaller sizes and perfect fit for larger sizes), with a kind of “sleeves” and long knit-look tunnel neck.
Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue
Depending on how you want to wear the poncho, you can make a knit-look fabric on the right or wrong side. I prefer to have the neck as a tunnel without shaping (so that it’s draping itself), but for a magazine it was folded for a neater look. And so that photography perfectly matches the Vermeer chapter.
The poncho uses approx. 22 skeins of Merino Soft Brush* yarn by Scheepjes. This yarn line was created as an addition to existing Merino Soft* range (reviewed HERE). So far it comes in 7 shades – each with a nice semi-colored effect. And all of them can be used in combination with regular Merino Soft yarn.
I am often asked if Winter Light Poncho is available for purchase as a single pattern, and the answer is no. It is only available in a book-a-zine. But believe me, it’s a must have and a must read. Dutch Masters issue is available in local Scheepjes shops and via larger retailers such as Wool Warehouse* (UK with international shipping).
New issue of YARN boo-a-zine contains 16 other patterns, articles about different types of yarn (with some interesting facts about acrylic), about tatting technique. It also presents work by Mathijs Siemens and Anne-Claire Petit.
I would love to show you everything in this blog post but I don’t want to spoil your surprise. My personal favourites are New Horizons Blanket by Rachele of Cypress Textiles, Almond Blossom Scarf by Nerissa of Miss Neriss and the Bedroom Rug by Dedri of Look At What I Made.
Want to see more? Grab your own copy and Enjoy!
Subscribe to a newsletter not to miss a single post. You can also follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram.
* DISCLOSURE: This blog contains affiliate links (marked with *). I may be compensated with a tiny amount from each purchase made via these links, and it will not cost you a penny. By using affiliate links you support my blog. Thank you!
I’ve been a part of this project for two years already, but every new issue amazes me more and more. If you haven’t even heard about YARN book-a-zine you might want to check it out. It’s something in the middle between a magazine and a book. Each issue contains around 15 knitting, crochet and sewing patterns accompanied with useful articles and insights into creative process of artists and designers.
Every new issue is themed. We already had Sea Issue, Midnight Garden Issue, Tropical Issue and here is a new one – devoted to Dutch Masters. I am a little bit addicted to printed books and magazines. And though my husband is an IT specialist reading everything on his mobile phone or on electronic book reader, I still find something magical and charming about holding a real paper book in hands.
The quality of YARN book-a-zine is supreme. Thick matt paper, high quality pictures (all made according to themes and chapters, very moody and special), additional pages for your notes and flap to help you organize the projects. The book-a-zine is published in both English and Dutch.
As already mentioned, new edition is devoted to Dutch Master featuring Vermeer, Mondrian, Rembrandt and Van Gogh. And all projects were designed in color palette and with the “mood” of their paintings. The pictures were taken in amazing interiors and wonderfully translate the feel of each artist. Just amazing. And very stylish.
 |
| New Horizons Blanket by Cypress Textiles |
I was asked to design a poncho for a new issue, and though I am still not confident in garment design, I decided to take the challenge. The poncho is one size (I believe it’s good for everyone – with a slight oversize look for smaller sizes and perfect fit for larger sizes), with a kind of “sleeves” and long knit-look tunnel neck.
Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue
Depending on how you want to wear the poncho, you can make a knit-look fabric on the right or wrong side. I prefer to have the neck as a tunnel without shaping (so that it’s draping itself), but for a magazine it was folded for a neater look. And so that photography perfectly matches the Vermeer chapter.
The poncho uses approx. 22 skeins of Merino Soft Brush* yarn by Scheepjes. This yarn line was created as an addition to existing Merino Soft* range (reviewed HERE). So far it comes in 7 shades – each with a nice semi-colored effect. And all of them can be used in combination with regular Merino Soft yarn.
I am often asked if Winter Light Poncho is available for purchase as a single pattern, and the answer is no. It is only available in a book-a-zine. But believe me, it’s a must have and a must read. Dutch Masters issue is available in local Scheepjes shops and via larger retailers such as Wool Warehouse* (UK with international shipping).
 |
| Almond Blossom Scarf by Miss Neriss |
New issue of YARN boo-a-zine contains 16 other patterns, articles about different types of yarn (with some interesting facts about acrylic), about tatting technique. It also presents work by Mathijs Siemens and Anne-Claire Petit.
I would love to show you everything in this blog post but I don’t want to spoil your surprise. My personal favourites are New Horizons Blanket by Rachele of Cypress Textiles, Almond Blossom Scarf by Nerissa of Miss Neriss and the Bedroom Rug by Dedri of Look At What I Made.
 |
| The Bedroom Rug by Look At What I Made |
Want to see more? Grab your own copy and Enjoy!
Subscribe to a newsletter not to miss a single post. You can also follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram.
* DISCLOSURE: This blog contains affiliate links (marked with *). I may be compensated with a tiny amount from each purchase made via these links, and it will not cost you a penny. By using affiliate links you support my blog. Thank you!
Being a crochet designer means that your family and all your friends will be involved into crochet. Sooner or later. Most of my friends don’t crochet. But from time to time I get messages from them with pictures of different crochet projects and notes like “You could probably make the same?” I think it’s fun! Crochet is connecting people.
A few days ago I received a message from my friend Lera. She lives in Amsterdam and has just returned from a long journey around Australia. It’s winter in the Netherlands, and it's pretty cold. And Lera asked me if by any chance I have designed something like a headband (saying her ears are freezing but she can’t wear hats for many reasons). I haven’t designed anything like this myself, and crochet hats or any head accessories is a nightmare for me because I am never good at sizing. But I thought I could make one for Lera. And it would be a nice late Christmas gift.
She wanted something very simple and elegant, in grey or black color. Together we browsed lots of pages on Pinterest and both agreed that Rib Turban Headband (FREE pattern) from Carmen of New Leaf Designs is something we were looking for. Lera wanted a wide enough band which could cover her ears, so I adapted the pattern a bit to make it wider. But otherwise no other changes were made.
I used two skeins of Merino Soft yarn* by Scheepjes in shade 603 (silver grey). A great choice for head accessory, in my opinion. As this yarn is very warm, soft, but not fluffy and not scratchy.
It took me several hours to finish the headband, mostly because I couldn’t figure the width in the very beginning and had to frog several times. Otherwise this project is very fast to make, and very satisfying. A nice way to practice front and back post stitches. And I just love clear graphic of the twist!
I began with ch31 and the height of both parts for the twist was approx. 5-6cm. After the piece was divided into two parts for the twist I made a little math to make sure both parts are the same (for example, that they both begin and end with back post stitch). That was needed for a symmetry.
I would like to share something else with you… If you are interested in food and in healthy life style, be sure to check Lera’s website. She is a professional nutritionist running her own company Terra e Luna in Amsterdam. She is helping people to deal with health problems via correcting their daily menu. She is creating individual custom programs. And she runs food workshops in her amazingly beautiful kitchen studio in the very center of old Amsterdam.
Lera is vegan. She has been creating her own recipes since I have known her (and I know her for almost 20 years now). Every time I come to Amsterdam I'm secretly hoping she will invite me to stay at her place for a couple days. And every time it’s a feast for my stomach. Not that her food is very tasty and animal friendly, it’s also so beautiful!
I have created a collage for you with the pictures of her original meals. Don’t they look fantastic? And all recipes are available for free on her blog HERE. In English, Dutch and Russian. Enjoy!
Lera has not seen the final project yet and I really hope she will love it. And will use it a lot during long winter months.
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A few days ago I received a message from my friend Lera. She lives in Amsterdam and has just returned from a long journey around Australia. It’s winter in the Netherlands, and it's pretty cold. And Lera asked me if by any chance I have designed something like a headband (saying her ears are freezing but she can’t wear hats for many reasons). I haven’t designed anything like this myself, and crochet hats or any head accessories is a nightmare for me because I am never good at sizing. But I thought I could make one for Lera. And it would be a nice late Christmas gift.
She wanted something very simple and elegant, in grey or black color. Together we browsed lots of pages on Pinterest and both agreed that Rib Turban Headband (FREE pattern) from Carmen of New Leaf Designs is something we were looking for. Lera wanted a wide enough band which could cover her ears, so I adapted the pattern a bit to make it wider. But otherwise no other changes were made.
I used two skeins of Merino Soft yarn* by Scheepjes in shade 603 (silver grey). A great choice for head accessory, in my opinion. As this yarn is very warm, soft, but not fluffy and not scratchy.
It took me several hours to finish the headband, mostly because I couldn’t figure the width in the very beginning and had to frog several times. Otherwise this project is very fast to make, and very satisfying. A nice way to practice front and back post stitches. And I just love clear graphic of the twist!
I began with ch31 and the height of both parts for the twist was approx. 5-6cm. After the piece was divided into two parts for the twist I made a little math to make sure both parts are the same (for example, that they both begin and end with back post stitch). That was needed for a symmetry.
I would like to share something else with you… If you are interested in food and in healthy life style, be sure to check Lera’s website. She is a professional nutritionist running her own company Terra e Luna in Amsterdam. She is helping people to deal with health problems via correcting their daily menu. She is creating individual custom programs. And she runs food workshops in her amazingly beautiful kitchen studio in the very center of old Amsterdam.
Lera is vegan. She has been creating her own recipes since I have known her (and I know her for almost 20 years now). Every time I come to Amsterdam I'm secretly hoping she will invite me to stay at her place for a couple days. And every time it’s a feast for my stomach. Not that her food is very tasty and animal friendly, it’s also so beautiful!
I have created a collage for you with the pictures of her original meals. Don’t they look fantastic? And all recipes are available for free on her blog HERE. In English, Dutch and Russian. Enjoy!
Lera has not seen the final project yet and I really hope she will love it. And will use it a lot during long winter months.
Subscribe to a newsletter not to miss a single post. You can also follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram.
Have you noticed that brioche patterns are very trendy nowadays? I can see knitted brioche shawls, scarves and clothes everywhere. As well as brioche interior accessories, such as rugs and pillows… If you search for “brioche” (on Pinterest, for example) you will see loads of knitting projects. And not so many crochet… I thought it’s unfair and decided to recreate brioche looking pattern in crochet.
Actually this is not my first attempt. Earlier this year two Labyrinth patterns were released – for a mandala which later was grown into a rug. I used overlay crochet for that, and crocheted fabric turned out very sturdy and stiff. Just great for pillows and rugs, but maybe not very suitable for blankets, and no good at all for wearable accessories.
So this time I decided to go further and develop a slightly different technique which allows crochet light, airy and well draping pieces. And more than that – I wanted to figure out how to make brioche crochet in rows (and not in rounds as you can usually see). And Ta-dah!!! Here is my newest Brioche Waves crochet pattern.
You can find the pattern both on Ravelry HERE and Etsy HERE. Hurry up as it is discounted only this weekend (through Monday, August 28)!! And you will save 25% (no coupon code needed).
Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue
What is so special about this pattern? First of all I like the feel very much. When I show my new blanket to friends, they like it. But when they touch it – they love it. I wish I were a skilled writer to describe the feeling with words… Maybe pictures will help? The fabric is made up with two layers which are interlocked. The wrong side of the blanket reminds me of fish gills. It is very soft and touchable. And secondly, you can use this pattern for almost ev-ry-thing! Blankets, cowls, pillows, trivets, potholders, rugs, bags… you name it. You will easily adjust it for any width and length.
Brioche Waves pattern contains two versions: “airy” – which I used for a blanket, and “overlay” – with no chains and holes. Great for home accessories. You can see the difference of the wrong sides below.
The pattern also includes complete instructions to finish the blanket and the cowl shown in this post.
Because in fact you crochet the entire piece with only front post stitches, it is better to choose very soft and light yarn for this project. Heavier yarns will work well for smaller project (like my Brioche Cowl for example made with Merino Soft* yarn by Scheepjes – reviewed HERE). But for the blanket I would recommend yarn with very good yardage.
I wanted to play with colors and for my blanket I chose Colour Crafter* (reviewed HERE) and Colour Crafter Velvet* yarn by Scheepjes. They both are premium acrylic and come in the same yardage and in nicely matching colors. The only difference is that dying process for Velvet yarn is a bit different, and it makes Velvet a bit stiffer than regular Colour Crafter. Ideally you will need equal amount of two shades for Brioche Waves pattern. But because of this difference you will need a little bit more of Velvet.
Let me show you examples of what Brioche Waves pattern can be used for.
1. The stitch pattern was specially designed for a blanket, so you can of course make a blanket with it. I should warn you that because you make lots of front post stitches this project is not quick. Even for me it was a bit slow but the final result is worth it! The huge advantage is that you are using both yarns at once. No need to break the yarn and weave in tails. So your time is saved already!
2. You can use Brioche Waves pattern for smaller projects, like cowls and scarves. I made one for myself.
3. As already mentioned, the pattern contains “overlay version” which creates a sturdy and stiff fabric. Good for different kinds of trivets and potholders.
I made a small sample in overlay crochet (with Stone Washed* yarn - reviewed HERE) and then played with it on computer to see how it may look as a rug. Pretty nice, isn’t it?
4. Overlay version is also perfect for bags. Hilde Tindlund was helping me to test the pattern. And look what a wonderful Zebra Clutch she made! You will find all details (and more pictures) on Hilda's project page HERE on Ravelry.
******************************************************************
About Brioche Waves crochet pattern in brief:
Subscribe to a newsletter not to miss a single post. You can also follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram.
Actually this is not my first attempt. Earlier this year two Labyrinth patterns were released – for a mandala which later was grown into a rug. I used overlay crochet for that, and crocheted fabric turned out very sturdy and stiff. Just great for pillows and rugs, but maybe not very suitable for blankets, and no good at all for wearable accessories.
So this time I decided to go further and develop a slightly different technique which allows crochet light, airy and well draping pieces. And more than that – I wanted to figure out how to make brioche crochet in rows (and not in rounds as you can usually see). And Ta-dah!!! Here is my newest Brioche Waves crochet pattern.
You can find the pattern both on Ravelry HERE and Etsy HERE. Hurry up as it is discounted only this weekend (through Monday, August 28)!! And you will save 25% (no coupon code needed).
Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue
What is so special about this pattern? First of all I like the feel very much. When I show my new blanket to friends, they like it. But when they touch it – they love it. I wish I were a skilled writer to describe the feeling with words… Maybe pictures will help? The fabric is made up with two layers which are interlocked. The wrong side of the blanket reminds me of fish gills. It is very soft and touchable. And secondly, you can use this pattern for almost ev-ry-thing! Blankets, cowls, pillows, trivets, potholders, rugs, bags… you name it. You will easily adjust it for any width and length.
Brioche Waves pattern contains two versions: “airy” – which I used for a blanket, and “overlay” – with no chains and holes. Great for home accessories. You can see the difference of the wrong sides below.
The pattern also includes complete instructions to finish the blanket and the cowl shown in this post.
Because in fact you crochet the entire piece with only front post stitches, it is better to choose very soft and light yarn for this project. Heavier yarns will work well for smaller project (like my Brioche Cowl for example made with Merino Soft* yarn by Scheepjes – reviewed HERE). But for the blanket I would recommend yarn with very good yardage.
I wanted to play with colors and for my blanket I chose Colour Crafter* (reviewed HERE) and Colour Crafter Velvet* yarn by Scheepjes. They both are premium acrylic and come in the same yardage and in nicely matching colors. The only difference is that dying process for Velvet yarn is a bit different, and it makes Velvet a bit stiffer than regular Colour Crafter. Ideally you will need equal amount of two shades for Brioche Waves pattern. But because of this difference you will need a little bit more of Velvet.
Let me show you examples of what Brioche Waves pattern can be used for.
1. The stitch pattern was specially designed for a blanket, so you can of course make a blanket with it. I should warn you that because you make lots of front post stitches this project is not quick. Even for me it was a bit slow but the final result is worth it! The huge advantage is that you are using both yarns at once. No need to break the yarn and weave in tails. So your time is saved already!
2. You can use Brioche Waves pattern for smaller projects, like cowls and scarves. I made one for myself.
3. As already mentioned, the pattern contains “overlay version” which creates a sturdy and stiff fabric. Good for different kinds of trivets and potholders.
I made a small sample in overlay crochet (with Stone Washed* yarn - reviewed HERE) and then played with it on computer to see how it may look as a rug. Pretty nice, isn’t it?
4. Overlay version is also perfect for bags. Hilde Tindlund was helping me to test the pattern. And look what a wonderful Zebra Clutch she made! You will find all details (and more pictures) on Hilda's project page HERE on Ravelry.
******************************************************************
About Brioche Waves crochet pattern in brief:
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate (front post stitches)
- The size (width and length) can be easily adjusted to your taste and needs
- The pattern contains two versions: “airy” – good for blankets, scarves and cowl; and “overlay” – perfect for pillows, rugs, bags, trivets and potholders.
- The pattern also includes complete instructions to finish the blanket and the cowl shown in this post.
- Brioche Waves crochet pattern is on SALE right now with 25% off. The offer only valid this weekend (through Monday, August 28) and then it will be listed at a regular price. You can find Brioche Waves pattern on Ravelry HERE and Etsy HERE.
Subscribe to a newsletter not to miss a single post. You can also follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram.
What can feel better than finishing a crochet wip on which you have been working for several months? I am not fond of large and epic projects as there are so many other ideas flying around. And my brain wants to catch each and everyone, and to develop it into a new design. But with a large project going on it’s not possible. So even though crochet blankets are very attractive I try to hold myself and reject them (always against my will). But there is one, very-very special, blanket I couldn’t resist. From the very beginning I knew I MUST make it. And this is Last Dance On The Beach CAL hosted by Scheepjes. Last week I finally finished it and today I am so very excited to share pictures with you.
This blanket has lots of meanings for me. I am very proud to be a part of this wonderful project as a designer. Together with my blogger friends we created square motifs for this blanket to bring into life CAL idea of Marinke Slump (aka Wink) from A Creative Being… Marinke tragically passed away last summer, and Scheepjes initiated Last Dance on the Beach CAL in a memory of this talented, kind, open hearted young lady. You can read more information about this CAL in my blog post HERE.
Unfortunately I didn’t have a chance to meet Marinke in person… To be honest at the moment I lack words to express my thoughts precise, and correctly … Many people in the world struggle with depression. It’s an invisible enemy crashing people’s lives. Last Dance on the Beach CAL united literally thousands of people who were making blankets in different parts of the world. Who were sharing their love, and who were trying to show that everyone’s life matters.
After this CAL started I read many thankful comments over different social media channels. Everyone of us feels damaged, and frustrated, and broken, and deeply sad from time to time. Someone lives with this through entire life… and then it’s very important to know you are not alone. That together we can make each other’s life a lit bit better. I know Last Dance on the Beach CAL brought light to many homes, and families and lives. And these are not just the words...
There were kits in three different colourways available for Last Dance on The Beach CAL: Dance in the Sea, Dance in the Rain and Dance under the Stars. Kits are no more available for purchase but if you visit Wool Warehouse HERE* and click each of the kit, you will see exact shades and yardages used for each blanket. There were basic kits with premium acrylic yarn Colour Crafter and luxury kits with Merino Soft. You can also create your own colour combination. In THIS blog post about the kits you will see how many skeins of each colour are needed to finish the blanket. And all patterns are available on Scheepjes website HERE.
Scheepjes donated small amout of money on every sold kit in Marinke Slump’s name. And after CAL was finished a cheque of 18.100 euros was handed to organization Mind. And it means many more people will get help in their struggles on the way to light.
I am very proud my own blanket is now finished! I wanted to make Last Dance in the Rain but in a slightly different colour combination. I left out whites and browns, and only used the shades of grey and blue. I forgot to weight each square before joining, so yardages are not exact…
I used the following shades of Merino Soft (and Amour Clover crochet hook 4.5mm*):
603 (11 skeins) – squares 2 and 8, joining and border
604 (5 skeins) – squares 5 and 7
605 (5 skeins) – squares 1 and 12
610 (5 skeins) – squares 4 and 10
612 (5 skeins) – squares 3 and 9
613 (5 skeins) – squares 6 and 11
To say I LOVE my new blanket is to say nothing… I am just very happy and proud.
Subscribe to a newsletter not to miss a single post. You can also follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram.
* affiliate link
This blanket has lots of meanings for me. I am very proud to be a part of this wonderful project as a designer. Together with my blogger friends we created square motifs for this blanket to bring into life CAL idea of Marinke Slump (aka Wink) from A Creative Being… Marinke tragically passed away last summer, and Scheepjes initiated Last Dance on the Beach CAL in a memory of this talented, kind, open hearted young lady. You can read more information about this CAL in my blog post HERE.
Unfortunately I didn’t have a chance to meet Marinke in person… To be honest at the moment I lack words to express my thoughts precise, and correctly … Many people in the world struggle with depression. It’s an invisible enemy crashing people’s lives. Last Dance on the Beach CAL united literally thousands of people who were making blankets in different parts of the world. Who were sharing their love, and who were trying to show that everyone’s life matters.
After this CAL started I read many thankful comments over different social media channels. Everyone of us feels damaged, and frustrated, and broken, and deeply sad from time to time. Someone lives with this through entire life… and then it’s very important to know you are not alone. That together we can make each other’s life a lit bit better. I know Last Dance on the Beach CAL brought light to many homes, and families and lives. And these are not just the words...
There were kits in three different colourways available for Last Dance on The Beach CAL: Dance in the Sea, Dance in the Rain and Dance under the Stars. Kits are no more available for purchase but if you visit Wool Warehouse HERE* and click each of the kit, you will see exact shades and yardages used for each blanket. There were basic kits with premium acrylic yarn Colour Crafter and luxury kits with Merino Soft. You can also create your own colour combination. In THIS blog post about the kits you will see how many skeins of each colour are needed to finish the blanket. And all patterns are available on Scheepjes website HERE.
Scheepjes donated small amout of money on every sold kit in Marinke Slump’s name. And after CAL was finished a cheque of 18.100 euros was handed to organization Mind. And it means many more people will get help in their struggles on the way to light.
I am very proud my own blanket is now finished! I wanted to make Last Dance in the Rain but in a slightly different colour combination. I left out whites and browns, and only used the shades of grey and blue. I forgot to weight each square before joining, so yardages are not exact…
I used the following shades of Merino Soft (and Amour Clover crochet hook 4.5mm*):
603 (11 skeins) – squares 2 and 8, joining and border
604 (5 skeins) – squares 5 and 7
605 (5 skeins) – squares 1 and 12
610 (5 skeins) – squares 4 and 10
612 (5 skeins) – squares 3 and 9
613 (5 skeins) – squares 6 and 11
To say I LOVE my new blanket is to say nothing… I am just very happy and proud.
Subscribe to a newsletter not to miss a single post. You can also follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram.
* affiliate link
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