Browse Category by Projects
Crochet, Projects, Videos

Crochet Instructional Videos – FCH and HHDC

I thought I’d make some crochet video tutorials today, because – well, why not. Hopefully, my free crochet patterns have introduced you to two new stitches: the foundation chain (FCH) and herringbone half double crochet (HHDC).

These two stitches are the secret jewels of the crochet world.

You might think you know it all with your double crochets and slip stitches, but I urge you to at least give these two stitches a chance.  It’s rare to find a pattern that calls for a FCH, but once you’ve learned how to do it, you’ll be surprised that you’ll start swapping out a normal chain in favor of a FCH. Being able to adapt crochet patterns to make them better is the sign of an advanced, innovative crocheter.  Welcome.

The FCH can replace beginning chains in a project.  It’s best used when you need a “stretchy” edge, such as the beginning row of a scarf.  The HHDC, on the other hand, is the love child  if a double crochet and half double crochet got a little cuddly one night.  I use this when stitch when I want some nice texture and tighter stitches than I’d get when working in double crochets.

If you’ve made it this far in the post, you are probably a crochet lover/nerd so congrats!  Watch these two short videos and then try your hand at the FCH and HHDC.  Here’s a great pattern that uses both of these two stitches in case you’d like to start working on something fun and quick: Crochet Cowl with Infinity Loop.  I promise you’ll love it.

Crochet, Crochet Ripple Blanket, Projects

The Ripple – She’s Finished!

Crochet Ripple Blanket

Crochet Ripple Afghan
You might remember when I started another project – a wonderful, rainbow-colored afghan – at the beginning of the year.  This time, it was a ripple. Based off Attic 24’s crochet ripple blanket pattern, this blanket was to be comprised of over 17 different colors.

I watched as the blanket grew weekly–during late night crochet sessions, a movie, a phone call with a friend, or while watching some episodes of Arrested Development.

A pink ripple here, a purple ripple there.  And now some orange.  Stop.  Look at the colors.  What’s missing?  Ooh… maybe some cobalt blue to make the colors pop.

Crochet Ripple Afghan

Some ripple stats:

  • Finished size – About 5 feet, 5 inches tall by 4 feet wide
  • Rows – 156
  • Different Colors – 17
  • Stitch count – over 10,000 (or 9,984 plus a border of single crochet, to be exact)
Crochet Ripple Afghan

The ripple is larger than the hexagon afghan I crocheted last year and when she’s spread out, she takes up quite some space.  As usual, I took way too many pictures of the finished product, but the colors make it hard not to enjoy.  I hope you, blog reader–even though you can’t touch the ripple, can’t feel how soft the baby cashmerino yarn makes her waves–can enjoy her, too through my humble pictures.

Crochet Ripple Blanket

This blanket is ready to go to its new home where I know it will bring happiness and warmth.  It’s been a real treat finishing her the past couple months and I know she’ll be in good hands.  Hope you enjoyed!

 Ripple Blanket to Crochet

Crochet Ripple Pattern

Crochet, Knitting, Projects

Baby Things: Crochet Hat & Knit Sweater

Two of my coworkers are having little baby boys!  They’re not due til the fall, but I figured I’d get a head start on things.  First up is a little guy’s crochet hat that’s modeled after the bigger men’s free crochet hat pattern I posted a few weeks ago.

Crochet a Hat

I got this yarn from Jo-Ann Fabrics and was planning to use it to knit something.  It’s one of those self-striping yarns, but it is painfully, painfully thin.  After spending 30 minutes trying to make something using double pointed needles, I just wasn’t feeling it.  So I got out my crochet hook and made this hat.

While watching a Netflix documentary.

On a Saturday night.

My life is riveting, I know.

Baby Crochet Hat

Baby Crochet Hat

Size G Crochet Hook

FPDC: Front Post Double Crochet

Pattern has a few small adaptations from the original hat, but I’d be more than happy to write a specific pattern for this baby-sized hat if you’d like.   Let me know.

Next up is a half-made baby sweater, modeled after this knitted baby sweater I made two years ago.  It’s a free pattern on Ravelry called “Baby Sophisticate” and has become my go-to baby sweater (the 3,359 people on Ravelry that have made it agree). It’s a classic.

Knit Baby Cardigan

I realized I never posted WIP (work-in-progress) photos of things I make since I am an impatient crocheter/ knitter and tend to whip things out, but I thought I would share my mid-project progress.  Yesterday, I finished the body and have the sleeves and collar left to complete.  Should be a good project for later this week.

Knit Baby Sweater

Knitting

Oh, and just to prove that I’m not being completely lazy this weekend, just know that I’m going to Cedar Point today.  And using my SEASON PASS.  So no pity for the sad, Saturday-night crocheter here!

What have you made this weekend?  I’d love to see what you’re working on.  Do you have any good baby patterns?  I’m thinking maybe some booties to go with the hat or even some to match the sweater.  Hmmm… new projects brewing already…

 

 

Crochet, Crochet Ripple Blanket, Projects

Crochet Ripple Blanket – Part 2

Crochet Ripple Blanket

I can’t believe I’ve only posted about the crochet ripple blanket ONCE since I began.  I’m ashamed, really.  Currently, there are 29 colored stripes (116 rows) of this beautiful rainbow afghan.

Just like any large crochet project, I’ve noticed ebbs and flows in my desire to work on it.  Some months, it’s 20 rows, other times, it’s 2.  But that’s all part of crocheting. I”ve already covered the details behind this blanket so I won’t bore you with more text.  Onto pictures!

Crochet Ripple Blanket

 Crochet Ripple Blanket

Crochet Ripple Blanket

Crochet Ripple Blanket

Crochet Ripple Blanket

If, after viewing these pictures, you don’t want it to instantly be summer, there is something wrong with you.  Please seek help.  Happy Monday, everyone!

Crochet, Free Patterns, Projects

Free Crochet Bird Pattern – 3rd Project

The day continues with the third project of “my big crochet idea“: a free crochet pattern for birds! Inspired by Kathleen’s post: “I’d love to see these cute little birds!! http://pinterest.com/pin/44613852528533507/I got to work as soon as I saw the picture.

After three tries, I finally crocheted what I deemed to be a good bird shape.  How cute are they?!  So  adorable. They take only minutes to make and a few yards of yarn.

Free Crochet Bird Pattern

Materials

Size G (4.25mm) crochet hook

Worsted weight yarn

Free Crochet Bird Pattern

Chain 4, join with sl st to form ring

Round 1: Ch 2 (counts as first dc), 14 more dc into ring (15 sts)

Round 2: Ch 1 (counts as first sc). Into same stitch, work [dc, 5 trc, dc, sc].  (Bird head). Sc in each of next 10 sc (around  bird belly).  Into next stitch, work [sc, ch 1, dc, ch 1, sc] (bird tail). Sc in each of next 3 sc (bird back).

Fasten off, weave in ends.

Bird Beak

Join yellow yarn at base of your bird’s head. Ch 4, sl st back into the stitch where you joined your yarn.

Fasten off, weave in ends.

Free Crochet Bird Pattern

Bird Eye

With black or white yarn and a big yarn needle, sew a couple stitches onto your bird’s face for an eye.

Free Crochet Bird Pattern

Free Crochet Bird Pattern
The dirty side of pattern writing...
Crochet, Free Patterns, Projects

A First – Free Crochet Snake Pattern

This is today’s second project of my big crochet idea, but it’s certainly a JJCrochet first.  If you follow my blog, you know I tend towards wearable items (most of which are geared towards girls).

But what better way to “shed my skin” then with this latest project.  Prompted by Juliana’s post on JJCrochet’s Facebook page, I designed and crocheted a reptile.

Yes, you read that correctly, a repitle.  A snake, to be exact.  It’s kinda cute… right?

Free Crochet Snake Pattern

Free Crochet Snake Pattern

Juliana’s request: “That is really nice of you! Ok, I know there are lots of patterns for snakes, but I have some leftover wool-ease thick and quick in greys that would make a cool snake. Do you think you could give me direction (or pattern) for a snake using thick and quick (since all the patterns I’ve found use thin yarn). Or maybe using thick and quick for a snake wouldn’t work? It was just a thought!” 

Free Crochet Snake Pattern

I had some Wool-Ease Thick & Quick here with me and thought this would be a fun crochet project so I began. Free pattern below so you can make your very own snake.  I hope you enjoy yours, Juliana!

Materials

Size L (8.0 mm) crochet hook

50 yards super chunky yarn.  I used Lion Brand’s Wool-Ease Thick & Quick in “Grey Marble”

Free Crochet Snake Pattern

Starting at snake tail: Ch 8, join with sl st to form ring

Round 1: Ch 2 (counts as first hds), Work 1 hdc in each chain (8 hdc). Join with sl st to first hdc

Rounds 2 – 25: Ch 2, do not turn. Hdc in the FLO (front loops only) of each st around (8 hdc).  Working in only the front loops of each stitch will give the snake a “textured”, scale-y look.  

Repeat Round 2 for as long as you want your snake to be.

Begin working the snake’s head.

Round 26: Ch 2, 2 hdc in each the FLO of each stitch (16 hdc).

Rounds 27 – 28: Ch 2, do not turn. Hdc in the FLO (front loops only) of each st around (16 hdc).

Round 29: Decrease Round. Ch 2, hdc 2 tog in next two sts and in each st around (8 hdc).

Rounds 30 – 31: Ch 1, sc in each st around (8sc).

Fasten off.

Whip stitch the bottom and top of your snake together.

Textured Snake Skin
Textured Snake Skin

Snake Eyes

Size J (6.0mm) hook

Worsted Weight black yarn

Chain 3, join with sl st to form ring.

Round 1: ch 1, work 9 more sc into ring (10 sc).

Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing onto the snake’s face.  Make two eyes.  Sew onto the snake’s head.

Snake’s Tongue

Size L (8.0 mm) crochet hook

Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick Yarn in “Cranberry”

Think of making the snake’s split tongue like a Y

Chain 8, fasten off. (the straight long part of the “Y”)

Join yarn at the end of where you fastened off, Chain 4. Fasten off (one “prong” of the “Y” made)

Join yarn at the same point where you fastened off, Chain 4. Fasten off (the other prong of the “Y”).

Weave in ends.

Sew tongue to your snake face.  Enjoy?

Crochet Snake Pattern

Free Crochet Snake Pattern


Crochet, Free Patterns, Giveaways, Projects

Free Crochet Pattern – Baby Headband for Girls

The first project made from my big crochet idea is this sweet little girl’s headband.  It’s very simple and a basic pattern for anyone to make for a newborn in their life.

Newborn Crochet Flower Headband

Maria responded to my request, “I’m so excited about this idea. I’m 8 and a half months pregnant, I’ve been looking for a simple and easy newborn dress pattern but if that’s too big maybe a nice headband with flower or flowers for spring? Thanks”

Instead of tackling a bigger project like a newborn’s dress, I instead designed a headband.  Maria, I’ll be mailing this out to you next week .  Congratulations on the upcoming birth of your daughter… I hope she enjoys her new headband!

Newborn Crochet Flower Headband

Materials

Size E crochet hook

45 yards Worsted Weight yarn.  I used Lionbrand Wool-Ease Worsted Weight in “Natural Heather” and some extra pink yarn.

Button for center of flower (optional)

Finished size

Headband measures 13 inches in diameter + stretch; 1.25 inches high

Crochet Headband Pattern for Newborn Girls

Fch 50.  Join with sl st to form ring.  (for instructions on how to work the “foundation chain” (fch), check out this post)

Round 2: ch 2 (counts as first sc + ch 1).  Skip next stitch. *sc, ch 1, skip next stitch*. Repeat around.  (25 scs, 24 ch-1 sts)

Rounds 3 – 5: ch 2, *sc in ch-1 space, ch 1*. Repeat around (25 scs, 24 ch-1 sts).

Fasten off, weave in ends.

Open Chain Flower

Ch 3, join with sl st to form ring.

Round 1: chain 9 (counts as first sc + ch 8). Ch 12, sc into ring. *Ch 8, sc, Ch 12* Repeat around until you have 5 loops/ petals (3, ch-8 loops, 2 ch-12 loops). Join to first sc with sl st.

Round 2: Working in back sc of previous round, sc. *ch 13, sc in next sc*. Repeat around until you have 5, ch-13 loops/ petals.

Fasten off, leaving a long tail of yarn to sew flower onto headband.

Sew flower onto left side of headband (button center optional).

Newborn Crochet Flower Headband

Crochet, Projects

My Idea: Free Crochet Patterns Instantly

Good morning!  I woke up, looked out my window, and saw a white fluffly layer of snow.  I knew it.  I’m not going anywhere today.  That’s when I got an idea.  You might say I’m an old spinster, or even anti-social, but stay with me.

Here’s the deal: I’m sitting here with my crochet hooks, camera, and a pile of yarn.  I’m in the pattern-writing mood.  This means I’m here to help.  If you’ve been scouring the web for a crochet pattern that you can’t seem to find, look no more.

You + Idea + My Brain = Free Crochet Pattern

Today and today only (February 25th) I am your personal-pattern generator.  If you need a crochet pattern for something, I will crochet the item for you and post the free pattern. Does this sound cool or is it just me, still in my post wake-up haze?

Here’re the deals:

  • Leave what you want me to crochet in the comments
  • Pictures are helpful
  • Thorough descriptions are even better
  • In favor of creating a couple free patterns for people, please no large items (nothing bigger than a hat/ scarf – ie. no afghans or sweaters).
  • I’ll crochet the item, write a pattern, then post the free pattern here on my crochet blog
Oh, and I also forgot, but I’d like to give the finished item to the person who requested the pattern.  I’ll mail it out to you later this week.  You get a totally free item, the world gets a free crochet pattern.  It’s a beautiful ideal!

So yep, that’s the deal.

What do you want me to crochet?

Crochet, Free Patterns, Guest Post, Projects

Crochet Beard Pattern: Free Pattern for Hat

Crochet Beard Hat Pattern

When people find I crochet, it’s a matter of weeks–days sometimes– before they ask if I can make one project: a crochet beard hat. Friends, family, and strangers have e-mailed, texted, even posted pictures on my Facebook wall, requesting this odd item.

Crocheted beards hold some inexplicable intrigue.

That’s why I was delighted to come across Lauren Strasser, a crochet designer who blogs about life at The Production Department.  Lauren has been crocheting since she was 15, but really started cranking things up when she was 19.

******************************************************************************
Reasons you need to make this project, this weekend:

  1. It’s freezing out there!
  2. The lumberjack look is so hot this season.
  3. St. Paddy’s Day leprechaun costume?
  4. My beard is way comfier than this beard.

I had been wanting to make a beard hat for awhile, but all the patterns I could find online weren’t quite what I was looking for. My wish list included: a big enough mouth space, ear coverage, and full chin coverage.

So I made my own and now you can too.

I loved using the foundation chain (fch) stitch in this pattern. The foundation chain lets the beard be stretchier than using a plain chain would allow. And stretch is key when you’re pulling this hat on like a face mask.

The foundation chain also makes the mustache area just a tiny bit thicker and we don’t want any wimpy mustaches around here. Here’s how to do the foundation chain (dch): Chain 2 Insert hook into 2nd chain from hook.

Yarn over, pull up a loop (2 loops on hook). Yarn over, pull through both loops (1 loop on hook). First fch made.

For remaining fch stitches, insert hook under the strand to the left (if crocheting right handed) of the hook, yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over pull through two loops.

What you’ll need for the beard:

  • Red Heart worsted weight yarn (about 50 yards)
  • Size K crochet hook

Ready? Let’s go!

Crochet Beard Pattern

Fch 31

Row 1: Chain 1 (counts as first sc now an throughout), * dc, sc *, repeat * to * 15 more times (31 stitches).

Row 2: Chain 2 (counts as first dc now and throughout), * sc, dc *, repeat * to * 15 more times (31 stitches).

Rows 3-8: Repeat rows 1 and 2.

Row 9: ch 1 (Counts as first sc), *dc, sc* 5 times (11 stitches), fch 9, (up to 20 stitches).  Skip 9 stitches. Work *sc, dc* 5 times, end with another sc. (31 stitches total)

Row 10: Repeat Row 2 (31 stitches).

Fasten off.

Optional step: Hold the beard up to your face, look in the mirror, and laugh until your sides hurt. Now sew the beard to a hat.

11/1/12 Update: After many requests, a pattern for  a smaller beard for kids is included in the comments and posted here below: 

Instructions for Kid’s Sized Beard

Fch 19

Row 1: Chain 1 (counts as first sc now an throughout), * dc, sc *, repeat * to * 9 more times (19 stitches).

Row 2: Chain 2 (counts as first dc now and throughout), * sc, dc *, repeat * to * 9 more times (19 stitches).

Rows 3-8: Repeat rows 1 and 2.

Row 9: ch 1 (Counts as first sc), *dc, sc* 2 times, dc. (11 stitches), fch 7, (up to 20 stitches). Skip 7 stitches. Work *sc, dc* 2 times, dc. End with another sc. (19 stitches total)

Row 10: Repeat Row 2 (19 stitches).

Fasten off.

I used this men’s free crochet hat pattern (from JJCrochet). Here the hat is inside out to show approximate placement I like. The beard goes smack dab in the middle of the hat then the front tilts up an inch or two. Just sew along the edges of the beard, not all the way to the edge of the hat. You’ll see why soon.

One more cool thing about this hat; even with the beard sewn in, it can be worn as a plain hat. just fold the hat in and off you go! (This is why you only sewed along the edge of the beard back there.)

Crochet Beard Hat Pattern
I think it looks like a football helmet when it’s turned inside out… Anyone else?

You are now the proud owner of a beard hat! Gift it away, stay warm outside, and make up a stack for your jealous friends. If you already have too many projects in process and don’t have time for this one, you can head over to my blog and order a custom made crochet beard.

Crochet Hat Beard Pattern

******************************************************************************

Many thanks to Lauren for creating this fantastic pattern and allowing me to share it.

Currently, my workplace is participating in “Full Beard February” (no joke – it’s a real thing), but being a girl, I was feeling left out.  After Lauren’s pattern – no more! I was so excited for this beard pattern and immediately tested it out to make myself some facial hair.

I can confirm it is the most bizarre, most wonderful thing I have crocheted for myself in a while.  I tried the beard on, checked myself out in the mirror, and laughed myself silly. I guarantee it’ll be an instant hit when you crochet one.

Lauren’s favorite yarn to crochet with is Red Heart worsted weight and her least favorite chore around the house is vacuuming the stairs.  The best part about her day is her lunch time where she spends her a few precious minutes crocheting or reading.  During the week, she teaches 25+ preschoolers at her church and couldn’t be happier.  To learn more about Lauren’s crochet work, visit her at The Production Department.

Crochet, Free Patterns, Projects

Free Crochet Hat Pattern – Girl’s Valentine’s Day Hat

I’m in love.  With this new hat, that is.

Girl's Crocheted Valentine's Day Hat

One of the women in my Bible Study is due right around Valentine’s Day.  She’s having a baby girl and was the inspiration for my latest crochet project.   This hat will fit a  newborn/ 3 month old baby girl and is right in time for Valentine’s Day.  Because it’s so tiny, this hat works up quickly, uses relatively little yarn, and is guaranteed to generate lots of “awwws” when worn.

Girl's Free Crochet Hat Pattern

Materials

Size H (8/5.00mm) Crochet Hook

70 yards Worsted Weight Yarn – I used Vanna’s Choice in light pink, dark pink, and white

Special Stitches

Materials

Size H (8/5.00mm) Crochet Hook

100 yards Worsted Weight Yarn (I used basic Red Heart Super Saver)

Special Stitches

Double crochet 2 tog (dc2tog): Yarn over, insert hook in next stitch, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook). Yarn over, pull through two loops (2 loops on hook). First half of dc made. Yo, insert hook in same stitch, pull up a loop. Yarn over, pull through two loops (3 loops on hook). Yarn over, pull through all three loops.

Double crochet 3 tog (dc3tog): Yarn over, insert hook in next stitch, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook). Yarn over, pull through two loops (2 loops on hook). First dc made. Yo, insert hook in same stitch, pull up a loop. Yarn over, pull through two loops (3 loops on hook). Second dc made. Yo, insert hook in same stitch, pull up a loop. Yarn over, pull through two loops (4 loops on hook). Yarn over, pull through all four loops.

Size

Hat will fit newborn to 3 month old child.  Measures approximately 11 inches wide; 5 inches high.

Crochet Hat Pattern

Chain 3, join with sl st to form ring.

Round 1: Ch 2 (counts as first HDC).  Work 9 more HDC into ring (10 HDC). Join with sl st to top of ch 2.

Round 2: Ch 2, HDC in same stitch.  *2 HDC in each stitch*  Repeat around (20 HDC). Join with sl st to top of ch 2.

Round 3: Ch 2, DC in same stitch (counts as first dc2tog cluster).  Work dc2tog cluster across next 3 stitches.  *Work two dc2tog clusters in next stitch.  Work one dc2tog cluster in each of next 4 stitches,* Repeat around (25 dc2tog clusters). Join with sl st to top of ch 2.

Rounds 4 – 9: Ch 2, 2 DC in same stitch (counts as first dc2tog cluster).  *Ch 1, work 1 dc3tog cluster in between each cluster stitch from previous round,* Repeat around (25 dc2tog clusters + 25 chains). Join with sl st to top of ch 2.

Round 10(Use different color for edging, if desired):  Ch 1, sc in each cluster stitch and ch-1 stitch across (50 sts). Join with sl st to ch 1.

Fasten off.

Crochet Heart Pattern

Chain 3, join with sl st to form ring.  (You’ll need to squish all your stitches as you work since you’re working a lot of stitches into the ring)

Round 1: Starting on left “hump” of heart, Ch 2 (counts as first dc). Work 2 tr, dc, 6 sc.  Dc, 2t r, dc, 2 sc into ring. Join with sl st to top of ch-2.

Round 2: ch 2 (counts as first hdc). Work 2 hdc, 4 sc across next stitches.  2 sc in next stitch (forms bottom point of heart).  4 sc, 3 hdc, sc.  Fasten off by working sl st into top center stitch of heart.

Fasten off, leaving a long tail to sew onto hat.  (I found my heart had more shape if I sewed the end straight down, almost pulling the tail down so the “humps” would have more definition.)

Free Pattern: Crochet Heart

Newborn Baby Free Crochet Hat Pattern

Crochet this newborn girl’s  hat with others on Ravelry:

Crochet, Free Patterns, Projects

Men’s Free Crochet Hat Pattern

Hi friends!  I haven’t posted a free crochet hat pattern in a while, so I thought it’s high time I share one.  I woke up this Saturday morning at 7:40am and got started with my day (translation: reading, French vanilla latte, crocheting).  Don’t you just love Saturdays?

This hat was designed for a guy, but could easily be adapted for a girl.  The ribbing on the bottom might be a tad masculine, but if it’s your style – go for it!  Teaser: This hat pattern would be the perfect compliment to JJCrochet’s first guest post, so keep it in your back pocket.

Men's Free Crochet Hat Pattern

Materials

Size H (8/5.00mm) Crochet Hook

100 yards Worsted Weight Yarn (I used basic Red Heart Super Saver)

Special Stitches

FPDC (Front Post Double Crochet): Yarn over, insert hook from right to left behind post of stitch from previous round. Yarn over, pull loop from behind post (3 loops remain on hook). Yarn over, pull through two  loops (2 loops on hook).  Yarn over, pull through remaining two loops.

Pictures always help (click to enlarge):

Step 1: Yarn Over
Front-Post Double Crochet
Step 2: Insert hook (from right to left) behind post of stitch from previous round
Front-Post Double Crochet
Step 3: Yarn over
Front-Post Double Crochet
Step 4: Pull yarn behind post (3 loops on hook)

 

How to Front-Post Double Crochet
Step 6: Yarn over, pull through 2 loops on hook

Step 5: Yarn over, pull through one loop.

FPSC (Front Post Single Crochet): Worked the same as FPDC, but no yarn over at beginning. Insert hook from right to left behind post of previous round. Yarn over, pull loop from behind post (2 loops on hook). Yarn over, pull through remaining two loops.

Gauge

First 3 Rows in Pattern = 4 Inches in Diameter.  To ensure a perfect fit, take time to check your gauge and adjust hook size if necessary.

Men’s Ribbed Crochet Hat Directions

Chain 3, join with slip stitch to form ring.

Round 1: CH 2 (counts as first DC, now and throughout).  12 more DC into ring (13 sts).  Join to top of ch-2 with a SL ST.

Round 2: 2 DC into each stitch around (26 sts). Join to top of ch-2 with a SL ST.

Round 3: *2 DC into next stitch, 1 DC in next stitch,*  Repeat around (38 sts). Join to top of ch-2 with a SL ST.

Round 4: *2 DC into next stitch, 1 DC in next 2 stitches,* Repeat around (50 sts). Join to top of ch-2 with a SL ST.

Round 5: * 2 DC into next stitch, 1 DC in next 6 stitches,* Repeat around (55 sts). Join to top of ch-2 with a SL ST.  Note: You might get 56 stitches, but that’s alright! It won’t affect the overall size of your hat and it will still turn out just fine.  If you do end up with 56 stitches in Round 5, it’s recommended you make 57 stitches total so you have an odd number to work the edging across.

Rounds 6 – 10: 1 DC into each stitch around (55 sts). Join to top of ch-2 with a SL ST.

Rounds 11 – 13: Ch 2, *FPDC into next stitch, DC in next stitch,* Repeat around (55 sts). Join to top of ch-2 with a SL ST.

Round 14: Ch 1 (counts as first SC), *FPSC into next stitch, SC into next stitch,* Repeat around *(55 sts). Join to top of ch-1 with a SL ST.

Fasten Off.

Related Posts: 

Men's Free Crochet Hat Pattern

Men's Free Crochet Hat Pattern

Enjoy!  Crochet this men’s hat with others at Ravely: 


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Projects, Uncategorized

Improving my Quality (of) Life

I’m not much for New Year’s resolutions. If I want to do/ change/ fix/ enhance something, well then I do it. But now that I’m on my own and making money, I decided I wanted to improve my quality of life.

This idea of improvement stemmed from “Treat Yo Self Two-thousann’leven” from Parks & Rec (watch the video – you won’t be disappointed).

I decided, no more eating frozen chicken nuggets for dinner.  No more buying clothes that are only on sale.  No more skimping and being frugal (within reason, of course).  No more!  This year, I’ve determined to improve my quality of life. If you remove the “of” in that statement, it sounds even more exciting: I want to improve my quality life. Yes, much better.

So besides cutting out frozen poultry from my life, what does “improving my quality life” entail?  Great question.  Essentially it’s just me spending more money on myself, but here’s a list of things I came up with just now:

  • Buying sweet smelling, loose-leaf tea
  • Crocheting something for myself (done)
  • Picking up the bill for a friend’s dinner (done)
  • Designing new business cards for JJCrochet (done)
  • Purchasing a pair of shoes at full price, just because I love them (done)
  • Splurging on that cookies ‘n cream milkshake (done)
  • Making it a priority to call out-of-state friends (done)
  • Ordering custom stationery and writing to friends (partially done)

In completing that list, I realized most of my “treat yourself” things include food, but I guess it is what it is. The stationery I marked as partially done because that is my latest endeavor.

You see, I came across PowderBluePapers on Etsy and figured custom stationery was the perfect place to start.  I told myself it was okay spending over $1.50 on a notecard–I was worth it– and placed an order.

My cards arrived in the mail today and can I just tell you, they have improved my quality of life.  I am so happy.  I didn’t know it was possible to get this much joy from notecards, but I did.  Here they are:

I cropped my address off from the bottom of the notecards, but know that it is there and it is beautiful.  I can’t wait to improve the quality of life of others when they receive little notes from me in the mail.

I also splurged and bought myself mini-moo cards (from Moo.com), and as expected – LOVE. I ordered half the cards with a floral design, half with images of crochet hats and knitted cowls.  My family hated them, mocking: “Hi, here’s a half-business card,” (giggles) “Hello, do you want this tiny piece of paper?”  (mocking laughter), but I think they’re great.  Just want I wanted for JJCrochet.  I treated myself and I enjoyed it!

I have started 2012 off treating myself and I must say that I am enjoying it.  I am too thoughtful and good to myself, ha.  But what it really comes down to, is what am I willing to spend my money on and why don’t I spend it on others?  I’m trying to be more conscious of my spending, more purposeful, but also remembering it’s okay to let myself go sometimes.

What are some ways you could treat yourself to improve the quality of your life and the lives of others?  Maybe it’s going to a movie or buying that new purse or calling an old friend.  Whatever it is – DO IT!  Life is too short and you deserve the finer things in life, and that most certainly excludes frozen chicken nuggets.