Category Archives: Shawls

May 6 2013
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Tranquil Tank Top Knit-Along – Additional Sizes (Or How to Resize a Pattern)

Tranquil Tank Top Knit-Along – Additional Sizes (Or How to Resize a Pattern) May 6th, 2013 by Zontee Pin It We’ve heard from several of you (thanks for asking, Karen, Kate, and Chelli!) who are looking to make the Tranquil Tank Top larger or smaller than the bust sizes in the pattern. Because of this, I wanted to write up a quick blog post about how you can resize a pattern WITHOUT rewriting the directions.How? Most of you know that getting the correct gauge is how we make sure that the item we make ends up the size we expect based on the pattern. It’s the reference point that makes sure that you’re on the “same page” as the designer.We’ve all had that experience at least once in our knitting/crochet lives, where we’ve skipped the gauge swatch and ended up with a project that’s just too small or big. Well, by harnessing our gauge, we can purposely make a project larger or smaller.Calculating Our New GaugeFirst, I read through the pattern for the Tranquil Tank Top, and I see that the cast-on amount is the same as the bust stitch count (this makes things easier, as you’ll want to base all the calculations on the bust size, which is the main sizing reference point for sweater patterns).The sweater is made as a front and a back piece, so we know each piece is half of our bust measurement (which is the measurement around our bust/chest).If you’re looking for a bust size of 34 inches, using the Small directions (with a 66 stitch cast-on), let’s do the math:34 inches ÷ 2 pieces = 17 inches per piece (that’s the front and back pieces of our sweater)66 stitches ÷ 17 inches = 3.88 stitches per inch (or approx 15.5 stitches per 4 inches)That would be the gauge we’re looking for.What Gauge Will YOU Need?I’ve gone ahead and done the math so that you can simply get the gauge below for your project.

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Tranquil Tank Top Knit-Along – Additional Sizes (Or How to Resize a Pattern)

Feb 25 2013
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The Therapy of Crochet and Knitting

The Therapy of Crochet and Knitting February 25th, 2013 by Ashley Pin It Has crafting ever brought you out of a tough time? Often, the meditative and creative aspects of yarn crafts can be just what the doctor ordered when it comes to coping with grief, depression, or that funk you just haven’t been able to emerge from. Though knitting and crochet are often looked at as lighthearted, serene crafts, the emergence of many crafting social groups over the last several years speaks to the release of both the craft and the social component that frequently comes along with it. A new book highlights the healing that can come from crochet.Crochet Saved My Life chronicles the journey of a college freshman coping with the usual suspects–new school, new state, new friends–as well as the far less familiar, including the surprise diagnosis of an inoperable brain tumor.

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The Therapy of Crochet and Knitting

Aug 16 2012
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Fall Fashion to Knit and Crochet: 12 Capes and Capelets We Love

Fall Fashion to Knit and Crochet: 12 Capes and Capelets We Love August 16th, 2012 by Margaret Pin It Fall is almost here, and if you’re anything like me, you’re already searching for the perfect fall pattern to sink your hooks and needles into. Finding that one must-make pattern can be a challenge, particularly when there are so many beautiful patterns to choose from.Capes are swinging back into style this fall, according to several sources including this article on Fashionising.com:“Capes & cloaks …  for fall 2012 they’re making their move again, pushing the boundaries of fantasy to capture the imagination with new life. From the tailored to the traditional, the Gothic to the bright, capes and cloaks are the thing to throw over your shoulders when the chill hits.”Looking for the perfect cape for you? Here are 12 of our favorites and why we love them

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Fall Fashion to Knit and Crochet: 12 Capes and Capelets We Love

Feb 9 2012

5 Free Shawl Patterns

A shawl is the perfect accessory! With a crocheted shawl, you can add a touch of sophistication, ward off the cold, or let someone know that you care.

In this exciting free eBook, we have compiled five beautiful shawl patterns, including an elegant and lacy shawlette, a cozy wrap, and the perfect capelet. You will find the perfect shawl for any occasion.

Long chains and solo single crochet stitches create the airy Sprout Chains Shawlette by Kristin Omdahl. This sweet little shawl is the perfect accessory for a pretty dress or to wrap around your neck for a fun scarf. Dainty flowers finish off this easily memorized pattern.

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The Flowers for Eryn Wrap by Tracy St. John was inspired by traditional Irish lace crochet. Shell-stitch panels and a mesh border frame the vintage roses. The length of this cozy wrap can be easily adjusted by simply working longer or shorter shell-stitch panels.

The Waffle Lattice Shawl by Elin Ny

bø is created with simple crocheted chains of varying lengths. The chains are felted to create the soft, fuzzy texture.

Chanson en Crochet by Mari Lynn Patrick begins with a simple crocheted chain at the neck edge before falling effortlessly around the shoulders in bands of elegant lace. This vintage capelet is the ideal opportunity to play with different lace patterns. A row of picot stitches around the neck and lower edges add the perfect finishing touch.

Crochet a Hug by Marcy Smi

th was designed while drawing on the tradition of prayer shawls. The easy wattle-stitch pattern, comprised of three basic stitches, is quickly memorized and wonderfully meditative. Create one for yourself or several as gifts.

Shawls are the go-to project to pair with that little black dress for a special occasion or to give to a friend in need of comfort. Whether you are looking for an eye-catching shawl for yourself or the perfect pattern for a friend, 5 Free Crochet Shawl Patterns: Inspiring Designs for a Lace Shawl, Irish Crochet Shawl, Prayer Shawl, and More has you covered. We would love to see your work; share your pictures with us.