Thursday, July 31, 2008

Ribbed Scarf


This is based on a pattern in the Make It Yourself library (a 1970s craft encyclopedia) - a pullover sweater I’ve reduced to a simple scarf. It alternates chain groups with rows of sc worked in the back loop only. For the scarf itself, I used a nubbly yarn that gives it a more textured appearance. The yellow version (a coaster) uses a sport-weight cotton yarn. I think this would be a nice edging for a knit scarf, and potentially placemats as well.

Sunday, July 13, 2008

Baby Bib

What started out as a quick project has turned in to a multi-draft, nearly two month project. The white, lace trimmed bib above was crocheted by my great-grandmother right before I was born. It's elegant and classic and, if the stains are any indication, was actually used. I wanted to replicate the pattern, but use baby weight yarn (to save time) and create variants that were less feminine.

This blue version was my second attempt (the first wasn't even close). It's too square, a bit stiff, and doesn't drape well.

I think this green one is just about final. I'm going to make the straps slightly shorter, add an extra two rows along the lower edge for length, and incorporate a scalloped edge when making the pattern for a girl.

Thursday, July 03, 2008

Ear-Flap Hat



This is a result of the ravelry fixation - I was cataloging all the projects I'd like to make in Stitch 'N Bitch Crochet, and stumbled across this pattern at the end of the book. It was incredibly fast - 2 hours from start to finish - and is a great way to use up yarn scraps. My version uses an assortment of wool and acrylic worsted weight yarns in pink, purple, and red.

I'm hooked. I've spent every night this week poking around on the site, cataloging work, and uploading images. It's exactly what I've been looking for - a visual index to both projects completed and projects I'd like to make. One of my favorite features is the library, where you get links to the projects you've made from a book (it would be even better if you could see your pictures). I also love the queue feature, for projects you'd like to make. It's awesome to be able to see pictures of a completed projects, scan through problems people have made, and see the results of using different yarns and hooks. If you're not already signed up, do it today! My account name is AliciaMalia if you want to look me up.

Additional features I'd like:
- A view to see all projects in any given book
- A way to see what I've made in a book, and what I'd like to make, all on the same screen