Sunday 8 December 2019

2020 New Year Stashdown Gorgeous Grannies Cal - Crochet a granny a day all through January...

Hello lovely people.  Is it too soon to be thinking of the new year?  I don't think so.  All the festivities of Christmas will be over before you know it and then we can all chill out with a little downtime and some nice relaxing crochet.  I always like to tackle my ever growing stash at this time of year and thought what better way to do it than with a good old crochet along.  If you are like me and your stash has taken on a life of its own, then why not join me all through January as I crochet a granny square a day.  By the end of the month we will have enough squares for a small blanket and will have made a nice dent in that stash pile.




I will be running the cal through my Facebook Group, where you will be able to share all your lovely photos.  I will post a link to that day's pattern each day and don't worry if you don't use Facebook, I will add links here too, so make sure to bookmark this page.  I am planning on using solid colours for all my squares, so the finished blanket will have a patchwork look to it.  You can use any colours you like, that's the beauty of granny squares.  Just use up that stash and make something pretty.

How To Join In


  • Check either here or on the Facebook Group each day for the pattern link.
  • Choose what weight of yarn you would like to use and correct hook for that yarn ie. 4mm hook for DK, 5mm hook for Aran / worsted.  Use this for EVERY square.
  • Follow daily instructions (each pattern may need to be altered slightly to give the correct size).
  • Feel free to post photos.
  • Once all squares are complete, check back here for finishing instructions.


Daily Pattern Links

The New Year Stashdown is here! Happy New Year everyone. Our first square is the Cosmos granny square. Remember choose either DK with 4mm hook or Aran / worsted with 5mm hook for your entire project. All equalising instructions in US terms.

Cosmos Granny Square

Follow pattern for square as written.  There are no equalizing rounds for this square.
24 sts across each side +4 corner sps




The Floral Square

Work rounds 1-3 as pattern, then continue as follows to equalise your square.
Round 4 Dc in each st and sp and [2dc, ch2, 2dc] in corners.
Round 5 Dc in each st and [2dc, ch2, 2dc] in corners.
Round 6 Sc in each st, dec 1st evenly along each side (crochet 2sts together in the centre of row), [sc, ch2, sc] in each corner, fasten off.
24 sts across each side +4 corner sps.


Lilly Pad Granny Square

Rounds 1-7 as pattern then equalise as follows
Round 8 [3dc, ch1] in each sp, [3dc, ch3, 3dc, ch1] in corners 
Round 9 hdc in each st and sp, [2hdc, ch2, 2hdc] in each corner 
Round 10 sc in each st, [sc, ch2, sc] in each corner, at the same time dec 1 st across each side (crochet 2 sts together in the centre of row).
24 sts across each side +4 corner sps


Tiptoe Through The Tulips

Work all rounds for flower centre 
Work rounds 1-5 of square 
Final round sc in each dc and ch2 sp, sc in top of each cl, [sc, ch2, sc] in each corner 
24 sts across each side +4 corner sps





Primula Square

Rounds 1-6 as pattern
Round 7 dc in each st, in corners [dc, ch2, dc]
Round 8 sc in each st, in corners [sc, ch2, sc] 
24 sts across each side +4 corner sps

Rounds 1-5 as pattern. 
Round 6 sc in each st and [sc, ch2, sc] in each corner.
24 sts across each side and 4 corner sps.






One Love Granny Square

Rounds 1-6 as pattern 
Round 7 sl st into next sp, 3dc in same sp, dc in next 3sts, in each corner [2dc, ch2, 2dc], across sides [3dc in 1st sp, 2dc in next sp, 2sc in next sp, 2dc in next sp, 3dc in last sp], join.
Round 8 sc in each st and sc, ch2, sc in corners.
24 sts across each side and 4 corner sps.




The Diane Rachael Square

Rounds 1-6 as pattern.
Round 7 repeat round 6.
Round 8 sc in each st around and [sc, ch2, sc] in each corner, at the same time inc 1 st evenly across each side (2sc in 1 st in centre of side).
24 sts across each side and 4 corner sps.



Eight Petal Flower wheel

Rounds 1-6 as pattern. 
Round 7 replace all dc with hdc.
Round 8 sc in each st and sp (apart from centre sp in each side, skip this one) and [sc, ch2, sc] in each corner. 
24 sts across each side +4 corner sps.

Rounds 1-7 as pattern.
Round 8 hdc in each st and [2hdc, ch2, 2hdc] in each corner.
Round 9 sc in each st and [sc, ch2, sc] in each corner. 
24 st across each side and 4 corner sps.

Rounds 1-6 as pattern 
Round 7 sc in each st around and [2sc, ch2, 2sc] in each corner 
24 sts across each side and 4 corner sps






Enchanted Garden

Rounds 1-6 as pattern 
Round 7 sc in each st in corners [sc, ch2, sc], at same time dec 1 st across each side (sc2tog in centre of each side). 
24 sts across each side +4 corner sps.





Crystal Square

Rounds 1-4 as pattern.
Round 5 2dc in each ch2 sp, 4dc in each ch3 sp, in corners [2dc, ch3, 2dc]. 
Round 6 sc in each st and [2sc, ch2, 2sc] in corners. 
24 sts across each side and 4 corner sps.





Popcorn 3D Flower Square

Rounds 1-6 as pattern. 
Round 7 sc in each st, inc 1 st along each side, in corners sc, ch2, sc. 
24 sts across each side.






Dreamcatcher Square

Rounds 1-6 as pattern. 
Round 7 sc in each st, inc 1 st along each side, in corners [sc, ch2, sc]. 
24 sts across each side


Rounds 1-8 as pattern. 
Round 9 sc in each st and [sc, ch2, sc] in each corner. 
24 sts across each side.


Queen Anne's Lace

Rounds 1-8 as pattern. 
Round 9 sc in each st, dec 1 st in middle of each side, in corners [sc, ch2, sc]. 
24 sts across each side







Floral Palisade Square

Rounds 1-7 as pattern. 
Round 8 sc in each st, dec 2 sts evenly across each side, in corners [sc, ch2, sc]. 
24 sts across each side.


Sofia Square



Rounds 1-6 as pattern.


Round 7 sc in each st and in corners 3sc.

Round 8 sc in each st, at same time dec 1 st across each side, [sc, ch2, sc] in each corner.

24 sts across each side.



Sublime Light Granny Square


Rounds 1-8 as pattern. 
Round 9 sc in each st and sp, dec 1 st across each side by skipping 1 dc in the centre of each side, in corners [sc, ch2, sc]. 
24 sts across each side.


Blossom Square

Rounds 1-6 as pattern.
Round 6 has a number of errors, each corner should be [3dc, ch2, 3dc] and after the last cluster st there should be a ch2.
Round 7 sc in each st, at same time dec 1 st in centre of each side, in corners [sc, ch2, sc].
24 sts across each side.




Daisy Wheel Granny Square

Rounds 1-6 as pattern. 
Round 7 dc in each st, 2dc in each sp and [2dc, ch2, 2dc] in each corner. 
Round 8 sc in each st around and [sc, ch2, sc] in each corner. 
24 sts across each side




Dahlia Pinnata

Rounds 1-6 as pattern. 
Round 7 sc in each st and 2sc in each sp, [sc, ch2, sc] in each corner. 
Round 8 sc in each st and [sc, ch2, sc] in corners. 
24 sts across each side.



Granny Square With A Flower

Rounds 1-6 as pattern 
Round 7 sc in each st and sp (sk centre sp on each side), in corners sc, ch2, sc. 
24 sts across each side.







Mangrove Square

Rounds 1-6 as pattern. 
Round 7 dc in every st, [2dc, ch2, 2dc] in corners. 
Round 8 sc in every st, dec 1 st across each side, in corners [sc, ch2, sc]. 
24 sts across each side.







Blanket Motif

Rounds 1-6 as pattern. 
Round 7-8 sc in each st, in corners [sc, ch2, sc]. 
24 sts across each side.



Rounds 1-3 as pattern. Rounds 3-6 3dc in each sp, in corners [3dc, ch2, 3dc]. Round 7 hdc in every st, in corners [2hdc, ch2, 2hdc]. Round 8 sc in every st in corners [sc, ch2, sc]. 24 sts across each side.

Rounds 1-8 as pattern. 
Round 9 dc in each st, in corners [2dc, ch2, 2dc]. 
Round 10 hdc in each st, in corners [hdc, ch2, hdc]. 
Round 11 sc in each st, in corners [sc, ch2, sc]. 
24 sts across each side.
Rounds 1-6 as pattern.
Round 7 sc in every st, inc 1 st in centre of each side, in corners [sc, ch2, sc].
24 sts across each side.




Mayan CAL Mini Taster

Rounds 1-7 as pattern. 
Round 8 hdc in every st and [2hdc, ch2, 2hdc] in corners. 
Round 9 sc in every st, inc 1 st across each side, in corners [sc, ch2, sc]
24 sts across each side.


Don't forget to share your finished squares, either on the Facebook Group, or use #lullabylodge on Instagram...



Joining Your Granny Squares

You should now have 30 granny squares and these can be joined 5 x 6 to make a small rectangular lap blanket or baby blanket. You can use any method you prefer to join your motifs. If you would like some joining ideas or are a beginner, you can read my tutorial on joining granny squares. There are 3 methods of joining, all suitable for beginners. I will be using method 3 to join my squares.


Iris Stitch Crochet Edging

Well, all the squares are finished and joined and it's now time for the border.  I wanted something pretty but simple to go with all the floral themed squares.  So I thought the Iris Stitch would make a wonderful edging to the finished blanket.  The link above will take you to the border pattern.


Blocking


To block or not to block?  Everyone has their own preferences so I am not going to tell you what to do, I will just tell you what I do.  Some people like to block each square individually before joining, this will probably give you the most professional result.  I'm afraid I tend to be a bit lazy when it comes to blocking, however this type of blanket really does benefit from something.  

For those of you who have never blocked anything or are not sure what it is, I will give a brief explanation.  Blocking is the process of setting the yarn into shape after finishing your piece.  This is done usually by two methods, wet blocking or steam blocking.  For wet blocking you would complete soak your finished crochet, gently squeeze out the excess water (usually wrapped in a towel so as not to ruin your work), pin into shape on a flat surface and leave to dry.  For steam blocking you pin out your dry finished piece and hover over it with a steam iron (do not touch your yarn with the iron) and leave to dry.  Both of these methods will give you a beautiful finish and drape to your blankets or whatever it is you are blocking.  The stitches get relaxed and softened during the process, which is why this type of blanket in particular really benefits from this procedure.

If I have any particular squares that are not quite sitting right, I will pin these out and steam them, but usually I just throw the whole blanket over the ironing board and hover over it with the steam iron.  The steam allows the stitches to relax and you can pull and ease the blanket into shape.  So for anyone that feels that blocking out 30 individual squares is a bit of a chore, you can try this option.



Pin it for later...



I can't wait to get started, I do love to bust through my stash.  I hope you will join me.  Oh and don't forget to subscribe...

Have a great day!
Catherine
x

Subscribe

* indicates required






You might also like...



This post contains Amazon affiliate links...


Friday 6 December 2019

Last Minute Christmas Crochet - My top selections, for quick and easy projects, to decorate your home with...

Hello friends!  I'm sure you are all super busy this holiday season, but there is always time for crochet right?  It's so nice at this time of year, to be indoors, all cosy and warm.  With your Christmas decorations up and feeling festive with a little something Christmasy on your hook.  Go make yourself a nice cup of coco, get your hook out and crochet up one of these lovelies...





You can never have too many baubles on your tree and these crochet ones are so pretty.  I love the way the gaps in the crochet allow the ball underneath to shine through and the sparkly yarn adds extra glitz.  You can find this pattern at Annie Design Crochet.

Christmas Baubles





This time of year is always so busy, busy, busy.  What with all the shopping, decorating and cooking, but you can still whip up this super cute, crochet Santa in no time at all.  Add a hanging thread for an adorable tree decoration, or you could make lots and use them for gift toppers.  The pattern is by Little Johns Yarn.

5 Minute Crochet Santa





Want something squishy to cuddle up to this Christmas?  Then look no further than 3amgracedesigns' cuddly candy cane.

Candy Cane Kawaii Cuddler





I'm not a big drinker usually, but I do like to have a little tipple at Christmas.  A nice glass of mulled wine or maybe a Baileys over ice.  This festive tree coaster will have you feeling merry and bright in no time, along with a glass of sherry and a mince pie?  The pattern is by Fluffy Stitches.

Tunisian Pine Tree Christmas Coaster




Another little something to hang on your tree.  Isn't he just adorable?  I love this pattern by my good friend Marjan, which you can find on her blog here...

Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer





Every fireplace need stockings at Christmas and this design by Sincerely Pam is so quick and easy, you can make it in just a few hours.  The pattern is perfect for beginner crocheters too.  Make them for gifts or just hang to decorate your home.

Alex Stocking





Lastly we have another hanging ornament and this one is such an unusual idea and is reminiscent of a vintage Christmas.  This pretty ice skate pattern is by Crochet Cloudberry.

Crochet Ice Skate Christmas Bauble




Pin it for later...



I post every week, so if you would like to see more like this, along with free patterns and more.  Be sure to subscribe.

Subscribe

* indicates required



Thanks for stopping by and I hope you found something you liked.  Which was your favourite?  Let me know in the comments below...

Have a wonderful Christmas and I will see you all again soon...
Catherine
x

You might also like...




This post contains Amazon affiliate links...






Tuesday 3 December 2019

Velvet Stocking - Make this soft & cuddly Christmas stocking - Christmas Cal

Hello everyone.  It's Christmas craft along time again and this week I have a super cute pattern to share with you.  I have been really enjoying experimenting, with Bernat's Velvet and will be making lot's of new patterns using this yarn.  Bernat Velvet is so soft and snuggly, you just cant stop touching it.  Have you tried this yarn before?  It really is beautifully soft, albeit a little tricky to work with.  So what to make first?  I needed a Christmas gift for my niece and nephew and just thought this yarn would make great Christmas stockings, perfect for a baby's first Christmas or just to make your home look extra festive.



Velvet Stocking


Materials

1 ball each in 2 colours Bernat Velvet yarn

Hook


Size

Approx. 15 inches (38cm) long

Abbreviations 

US terms  (UK conversion)
sc - single crochet (double crochet)
hdc - half double crochet (half treble crochet)
sl st - slip stitch
ch - chain
st - stitch


Other notes:  This pattern is described as intermediate, purely because of the nature of working with the velvet yarn.  This type of yarn obscures the stitches and requires some skill to determine where they are.  It is recommended for this reason to count your stitches as you go until you become familiar working with the yarn.  Colours used, Quiet Pink and White.


Stocking Toe

With contrast colour, starting with a magic loop.

Round1 Right side, ch1, (does not count as st), 8hdc into ring, join with sl st.  (8hdc).

Round 2 Ch1, 2hdc in each st around, join with sl st.  (16hdc).

Round 3 Ch1, [2hdc in next st, hdc in next st] repeat around, join with sl st.  (24hdc).

Round 4 Ch1, [2hdc in next st, hdc in next 2 sts] repeat around, join with sl st.  (32hdc).

Rounds 5 - 7 Ch1 sc in each st around, join with sl st, turn.  (32sc).  Fasten off.

With main colour and right side facing, join with sl st in 1st st of round.





Rounds 8-21 Ch1, sc in each st around, join with sl st, turn.  (32sc).  Fasten off.


Shape Heel

With contrast colour, joining with sl st to 8th st to the right of the back seem, (there is a slight seam visible from the joining sts).

Row 1 Ch1, sc in same st and in next 15 sts, turn.  (16sc).

Rows 2-4 Ch1, sc in each st, turn.  (16sc).

Row 5 Ch1, sc in next 10 sts, sc2tog, sc in next st, turn.  (12sc).

Row 6 Ch1, sc in each st to last 6 sts, sc2tog, sc, turn.  (8sc).

Row 7 & 8 Ch1, sc to last st, sc2tog over next st and 1st st from previous row, sc in next st, turn.

Row 9 & 10 Ch1, sc to last st, sc2tog over next st and 1st st of previous row, turn.  Fasten off.



Body of Stocking

With right side facing and main colour, join with sl st to 6th st of heel.

Round 1 Ch1, sc in same st and next 3 sts, sc2tog, sc4 down left side of heel, sc2tog over side of heel and 1st st of main body of stocking, sc in next 14 sts, sc2tog over last st and side of heel, 4sc up side of heel, sc2tog, sc in next 3 sts, join with sl st, turn.  (32sc).

Rounds 2-20 Ch1, sc in each st around, join with sl st, turn.  (32sc).  Fasten off.

With right side facing and contrast colour join with sl st to 1st st to the right of seem.

Rounds 21-40 Ch1, sc in each st around, join with sl st, turn.  (32sc).  Fasten off and weave in ends.


Hanging Loop

With contrast colour ch30.

Row 1 Sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc in each ch.  Fasten off.

Sew hanging loop to top of stocking.







I added a cute wooden tag, you can get these at Amazon...



If you would like to help support my work, you can purchase an ad free pdf version of this pattern in my Etsy store.  This pattern is also available to download this month, for my Patreon subscribers.  You can subscribe from as little as $1 a month and can cancel at any time.  Head on over there for more details...


Pin it for later...



I hope you enjoyed this weeks pattern.  Be sure to subscribe, I post new patterns every week.

Subscribe

* indicates required



Back soon...
Catherine
x

Velvet Stocking Pattern purchase from Etsy.

Velvet Stocking Pattern only $1 this month at Patreon





You might also like...




This post contains Amazon affiliate links...