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Merry Christmas, Crochet Style

By JJCrochet on December 26, 2010 in Crochet

Merry Christmas! I hope today found you surrounded by those you love, decadent food, and general merriment. For my family, Christmas included visiting both sides of the family, binge eating, opening lots of presents, and the singing of Christmas carols (although if you know us at all, when I say “singing” I actually mean shouting loudly and off-pitch noise making). We are not musically gifted in the least. I think we sang 3 different songs to the tune of Hark the Herold…

Our family also has a Christmas tradition that I started oh, about 6 years ago. Every year, my brother and sister receive from me (their generous and talented sister) a priceless gift so rare and valuable no amount of money could ever buy:

FREE CROCHET LESSONS.

I know you won’t believe this, but they have YET to redeem them.

Maybe this year will be the year (although my brother violently ripped up his coupon and thew it away so I doubt it) they will finally learn to crochet. It’s my Christmas wish that one day, they’ll learn. Despite their howls of laughter and swearing up and down they would rather poke their eyes out with a crochet hook before they’d learn to crochet, I will give them the same gift next year.

At the end of the evening, my father did attempt to crochet, but I don’t think he’s a natural. You might want to stick to the deer hunting, Pops.

For one last bit of Christmas cheer, I’ll leave you with a picture of our family tree (yes it’s true and not a joke – this is what we “put up” every year).

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, from our home to yours.

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Free Chunky Crochet Cowl Pattern

By JJCrochet on December 20, 2010 in Crochet, Free Patterns, Projects

Crocheted and Knitted Cowls are big and chunky and warm and totally IN this winter. Why not make your own with our free crocheted cowl pattern? This particular crocheted cowl is worked in a flat rectangle then whip stitched together, but you can easily work it in the round.

Materials

Size P crochet hook (11.5mm)
Super Bulky Yarn. I used Lionbrand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick in a heather gray, but any bulky yarn will work.

Special Stitches

FCH – Foundation Chain (or single crochet): Chain 2. Insert hook in the first of two chains. Yarn over, draw through loop (chain stitch just created). Yarn over, pull through two loops on hook. (Single crochet created). You now have two fch completed. *Insert hook in upper loop of stitch just created. Yarn over, draw through loop. Yarn over, pull through two loops on hook.* Three fch completed. Repeat from * to *across for desired number of chain stitches.

HHDC – Herringbone Half Double Crochet. Yarn over, insert hook in next stitch. Yarn over, pull through two loops on hook. (This will be a little awkward, but it’s correct. You might have to use your left thumb and forefinger to really hold the stitches so you can pull through both of them.) Yarn over, pull through two loops on hook.

Directions

FCH 45. (If you can’t quite get the foundation chain, don’t panic! You can do a regular chain 45 and still be fine. A FCH just creates a stretchier base which will be better for your cowl, but either works!)

Round 1: Chain 2 (counts as first HHDC now and throughout). HHDC in each stitch across. (45 HHDC)

Round 2: Chain 2, turn. HHDC in the BACK LOOP ONLY of each stitch across. (45 HHDC)

Repeat Round 2 nine more times or until yarn ends.

Fasten off, leaving a 12″ tail to sew ends together. Match short ends of rectangle and whip stitch together. Weave in ends.

You’re finished! I’d love to see your new project and so would the world. Show off your new crochet cowl in JJCrochet’s Customer Gallery or post your project on Ravelry.

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What Not To Crochet: Crimson Crochet Christmas Capris

By JJCrochet on December 20, 2010 in Crochet, Projects

You may be asking yourself, “Crocheted Capris? Not possible. What does she really mean?” Yes, I mean crocheted capris. Pants that are entirely crocheted. Crochetwear that has been transformed into pants. Before you see the picture, let me describe this project to you in adjectives: acrylic, tight, bumpy…disastrous. They are surprisingly warm, though. It’s like wearing a sweater on your legs.

I can only justify my (hideous) crochet work by saying it was not my idea. The inspiration came from the 2004 premier issue of Knit 1 so if anyone’s to blame, it’s them. Here’s the picture that started it all:

Although these pants never made a public appearance until this year, I crocheted them a few years ago so (fortunately) I don’t remember my original fascination. I don’t know what it could have been that, upon seeing the picture, drove me to adapt the knitting pattern and make my own version of crocheted maroon gauchos. Even saying that gives me chills. But alas, I did.

My crocheted red pants remained tucked away in the bottom drawer of my dresser, a forgotten memory of a crochet project gone awry. It was too hideous to display, yet too good to throw away. Nothing could make me share my pants with the world and endure the inevitable ridicule and laughs of critics. Nothing, except, for the Okie Pi Christmas Party of 2010.

Every year, two fraternities at my school put on a Christmas party filled with gingerbread decorating, ornament painting, pictures with Santa, Christmas caroling, and of course: the wearing of ugly Christmas sweaters. As the Sweetheart of one of the fraternities (see: c rocheted Omicron Xi sweater), I took it upon myself to be extra-festive. And what’s more festive than crocheted red pants to celebrate Christmas? I submit to you: nothing. Actually, probably plenty.

But enough background story. In the spirit of transparency, I’ll swallow my pride and let you be the judge:

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Crochet Hexagon Blanket – Part II

By JJCrochet on December 18, 2010 in Crochet, Crochet Hexagon Blanket, Projects

The crochet hexagon blanket I started a month ago continues to grow and I continue to fall more in love. The blanket now consists of 61 hexagons. That means I’m 38.36% finished with the blanket. Woo! Pictures below…

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How to Crochet a Flower – Video Tutorial & Free Crochet Pattern

By JJCrochet on December 8, 2010 in Crochet, Free Patterns, Videos

Learning to crochet a flower can be tricky, but I made this video tutorial to show you exactly how to make a basic 6-petal crocheted flower. Follow along and you’ll be crocheting flowers in no time! You will need a few basic crochet stitches, but with a little practice you’ll get it! Written instructions for the crochet flower are also included below.

Free Crochet Flower Pattern

Materials

Any size crochet hook (I used size “J”)
Small amount of any yarn (~20 yards). I used Vanna’s Choice Solids.

Directions

Chain 4, join with sl st to form circle.

Round 1: Ch 3 (counts as first dc now and throughout), 11 more dc into circle (12 dc). Join to first dc with sl st.

Round 2: Ch 4 (counts as first sc + ch 3). *skip 1 st, sc in next st, ch 3* Repeat around until beginning. Join by making a sc in first ch-3 stitch. (Six, ch-3 spaces).

Round 3: Ch 3. 4 more dc in first ch-3 space. Sc. In next ch-3 space work *1 s, 5dc, 1sc* Repeat around until beginning. Join to first sc with sl st. (6 Petals)

Fasten off. Weave in ends.

Tada – You’ve made a flower!

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Crochet Hexagon Blanket – Part I

By JJCrochet on November 16, 2010 in Crochet, Crochet Hexagon Blanket, Projects

My blog is a bit drab, don’t you think? It’s missing pictures of mesmerizing crocheted hats, dazzling yarns, and lavish crochet projects.

I apologize, but offer a remedy: snapshots of my newest project: a crocheted Hexagon afghan. This hexagon afghan is a custom order for a wonderful customer that I’ll be tracking through its inception. (speaking of Inception, good movie).

Hexagon Blanket Yarn

Project Deets: Inspired by the Crochet Hexagon Blanket on Attic 24‘s Blog

Yarn: Rowan Handknit Cotton

Hook: Crochet hook size E (3.5mm)

Completed Hexs as of 11-15-2010: 38 of 159

Progress as of 11-15-10

It’s been incredible watching the afghan grow as I add each crocheted hexagon. And with Attic 24′s Crochet Hexagon How-To, it’s been a breeze. I especially appreciate her join-as-you-go technique to connect each hexagon as it’s made. Would it be helpful if I did a video tutorial of how to crochet one of the hexagons? Hmm… possibly in the works…

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Craft Show Update

By JJCrochet on November 16, 2010 in Uncategorized

November has long been here which means JJCrochet’s craft show season ended last month. Oh what a time of fun, sleepless nights, mad crocheting, and meeting wonderful people. Here’s a slight recap of JJCrochet’s craft show chaos 2010.

Number of shows: 3
Total Crafting Days: 5
Furthest Distance Traveled: 4 1/2 hours round trip
Total Crochet Hats Sold: 154
Times Getting Hit on: 8

To see real-life JJCrochet customer footage check out this VIDEO:

This year’s craft show season also marked JJCrochet’s most profitable day of selling EVER. JJCrochet sold 1 crocheted hat ever 6 minutes. Yes, 86 crocheted hats were released into the market at the Clarion Autumn Leaf Festival. And in case you’re wondering, seeing people walk around wearing your designs is still a rush, even after 6 years of doing craft shows.

Now that CSS (Craft Show Season) is over, it’s time for JJCrochet to start building up next year’s inventory. Crocheted hats, crochet berets, knit caps, and even a crocheted hexagon blanket are in the works. [Perhaps even a "How to Crochet a Flower Video Tutorial"...]

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The Advent of “Craft Show Season”

By JJCrochet on September 19, 2010 in Craft Shows, Projects

Every year without fail, Craft Show Season arrives. These few weeks in September and October have become affectionately known as “CSS”.

“Want to go shopping this weekend?” my friends will ask innocently.

“No, sorry… it’s CSS.” I respond. They shrug knowingly, sometimes followed by a head nod or affirming pat on the back.

Anyone who’s not a crafter might not realize the gravity of CSS and how it shapes your life. I have an upcoming show this weekend, Harmony Grange Festival, and it will mark the opening of my 3 week CSS. I have been prepping for months: crocheting hats to have a decent inventory, screwing dowel rods into bases to make hat stands, painting wooden letters to fashion a sign, saving $1 and $5 for the past couple weeks months so I have change for the big spenders.

You can’t underestimate the power of CSS; those unprepared will not survive.

Especially in college, CSS is an interesting time of year. I have done two-day shows where I got 3 hours of sleep because I chose to stay up and crochet more hats. I have driven 50 minutes in the wrong direction before realizing it and arrived late to shows. I have endured 35 degree weather with nothing but the shelter of a blue EZ-up tent to protect me from the ranging winds. I have done homework in McDonald’s restaurants. I have tried to sell warm crochet hats to people eating snow-cones in August. It has rained, it has been warm. I have worked 28 hours and driven 6 hours in one weekend. During CSS, I’ve done it all.

That being said, I wouldn’t trade CSS for anything.

I love it. Absolutely love it. The people, the selling, the relationships, the experiences. Some people remember my booth from previous years and when I hear, “Ohhh – there’s the hat lady!” it makes all those sleepless nights worth it (well, only if they buy something, really).

Three craft shows in Western Pennsylvania will culminate my 2010 CSS:

September 23 – 25th – Harmony Grange Festival
October 1 – Clarion Autumn Leaf Festival
October 2-3 – Delmont Apple ‘n Arts Festival

If you’re in the area, stop by and see my new booth setup or ever better, pick up your very own JJCrochet hand-crocheted hat! And please, if I look tired, don’t tell me.

For those who can totally relate to CSS, here’s are two good articles to make your CSS seamless:

All the Best and Happy Craft Show Season!

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JoAnn Fabric’s VIP Card – 10% Off for Crafters and Non-profits

By JJCrochet on August 26, 2010 in Uncategorized

I found some exciting news about JoAnn Fabric’s. As a small business and crafter, I thought I’d pass along the news. Everyone’s favorite craft store, JoAnn Fabrics, is offering a free new VIP card that’ll get you 10% off every purchase. I spent too much there as it is so I might as well get 10% off every order, can I get an “Amen”?

The details:

10% off every purchase, including sale items
Eligible if: a reseller, member of sewing or crafting guild, or a non-profit
Must show tax exempt license or proof of 501(c)3 status
Sign up at joann.com/vip. It’ll take 3-5 weeks for your card to arrive

So simple, right? If you qualify for JoAnn’s new VIP card, sign up and start saving 10% off your purchases. You never know, those dimes might add up after a while. Happy crafting!

UPDATE 9/15: My JoAnn Fabric VIP card arrived in the mail today. Time for a yarn run.

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Free Crochet Giveaway WINNERS!

By JJCrochet on August 5, 2010 in Giveaways

Thanks to everyone who participated in JJCrochet’s Summer Giveaway from July 28 – August 4th! It was our first giveaway, but hopefully not our last.

Congratulations to the following winners:

1. Coral Headband with Buttons: Chelsea Hosler
2. Teal Bamboo Flower Headband: Stephen Johnson
3. Open Coral Beret: Kjersten Whiting

Winners were selected using a random number generator.

1. Coral Headband

2. Teal Bamboo Headband

3. Coral Summer Beret

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Free Crochet Giveaway

By JJCrochet on July 31, 2010 in Crochet, Giveaways

JJCrochet’s on Facebook. Visit our page to become a fan. If you “like” JJCrochet, you’ll:

Be the first to view new products
Know which craft shows JJCrochet will be attending
Be able to submit your feedback
Oh, and did we mention WIN FREE CROCHET STUFF?!

Yep, that’s right. “Like” JJCrochet on Facebook and you can start getting all these benefits, plus you can enter JJCrochet’s free crochet giveaway. From July 28 – August 4th, you can enter to win three of these beautiful prizes:

Coral Summer Crochet Beret. Retail Value: $25

Teal Bamboo Flower Headband with Button. Retail Value: $9.00

Crocheted Coral Headband with Buttons

How do you enter? It’s as easy as posting a comment on Facebook. No, really. To enter, simply leave a comment on any/ all items you like and you’ll be entered to win those hand-crocheted items from JJCrochet. No strings attached. Winners will be randomly selected and notified on August 4th.

It’s our way of saying thanks to YOU for your support of all things JJCrochet. So spread the word, tell your grandma (who might go into shock when she hears about the marriage of “that Face-book thingy” and her time-honored art of crochet), tell your friends, tell your sister, and like JJCrochet!

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Free Coffee Cozy Crochet Pattern: FPF

By JJCrochet on July 16, 2010 in Crochet, Free Pattern Friday, Free Patterns

It’s Friday already? Alrighty then, time for another free crochet pattern as part of JJCrochet’s Free Pattern Friday.

I woke up this morning and was brainstorming what I could make and offer as a free crochet pattern for FPF. I wanted something quick for summer, something useful, something practical. Something people could make that would work crochet into their everyday routines. A couple months ago one of my good friends, C.J., suggested I made crochet coffee cozies. I instantly loved the idea, but hadn’t gotten around to crocheting up a prototype until today. So thank you, C.J. for your inspiration!

C.J.’s Crochet Coffee Cup Cozy

Materials

Size E (3.5mm) crochet hook
Size F (4.0mm) crochet hook
Small amount Worsted Weight Yarn. I used Vanna’s Choice Solids.

Directions

With smaller hook (size E), Chain 25. Join with sl st to first chain.

Round 1: Using larger hook, Ch 2 (counts as first hdc now and throughout), hdc in each st around (25 st). Join to first hdc with sl st.

Round 2: Ch 2. *Ch 1, skip 1 st, 2 hdc in next st* Repeat around until beginning. Ch 1, 1 hdc in same last st. Join to first hdc with sl st.

Round 3: Ch 2. 1 hdc in first ch-1 space. *2 hdc in next ch-1* Repeat around until beginning. Join to first hdc with sl st. (Note: Do NOT ch-1 between each hdc cluster.)

Round 4: Ch 2, hdc in each st across (25 st).

Round 5: Repeat Round 2

Round 6: Repeat Round 3

Round 7: Using smaller hook, Ch 2, hdc in each st across (25 st).

Fasten off. Weave in ends.

Choose different colors for each round or alternate a striping pattern. Below is the color scheme for the two coffee cozies pictures:

Crochet Coffee Cozy 1

Round 1: Bright Coral
Round 2: Gray
Round 3: Purple
Round 4: Bright Coral
Round 5: Purple
Round 6: Gray
Round 7: Bright Coral

Crochet Coffee Cozy 2

Round 1: Olive Green
Round 2: Grass Green
Round 3: Grass Green
Round 4: Olive Green
Round 5: Grass Green
Round 6: Grass Green
Round 7: Olive Green

Experiment with your own colors to create your very own crochet coffee cozies to match your style. They’re reusable, easy to wash, and a greener alternative to paper covers. Happy crocheting!

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I’m a Yarn Harlot… or at least enjoy reading about one.

By JJCrochet on July 16, 2010 in Knitting

I’m currently reading “Yarn Harlot: The Secret Life of a Knitter” by Stephanie Pearl McPhee. This book is a reflection of my soul.

( If you’d like to get a little kicky flavor of her witting writing, check out a sample of her book her on Google Books). I promise if you’re a knitting or crocheter, you won’t be disappointed. And coming from me, a big non-reader, consider this a glowing recommendation.

Granted, I’m only 40 pages through, but I just got the book from a lady at my knitting group (thanks, Helen!) and am so pleased with it, I can only show my appreciation through blogging. Future note to self: finish reading a book in its entirety before sharing your opinions.

If you eat, breathe, and sleep knitting or crocheting you have to check out this book. Reading Stephanie’s stories will make you realize you’re not alone and not as crazy of a knitter as you realized. You’re just like the rest of us yarn harlots. There is hope.

In the tiny pages of Yarn Harlot: The Secret Life of a Knitter, you’ll find:

Notes left by UFOs (unfinished objects, for all you non-knitters), begging to be finished
Panic-laden moments of stretching sweaters and blocking blunders
Ambitious, soul-stealing knitting projects shoved in closets
Family vacation money spent at local yarn stores
Sock knitting ramblings, etc, etc, etc.

My favorite paragraph from the book (so far) has been this,

“Knitting is magic. Knitting is an act of creation and a simple transformation each and every time. Each knitted gift holds hours of my life. I know it looks just like a hat, but really, it’s four hours at the hospital, six hours on the bus, two hours alone at four in the morning when I couldn’t sleep because I tend to worry. It’s all those hours when I chose to spend time warming another person. It’s giving them my time – time that I could have spent on anything, or anyone, else. Knitting is love, looped and warm.“

If that blurb doesn’t incentivize you to put down your needles and pick up a copy of Yarn Harlot: The Secret Life of a Knitter by Stephanie Pearl McPhee, I don’t know what will. Happy reading!

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