6 tips for summertime crochet...

Many mistakenly think that crocheting is strictly a cool weather hobby, so Tara and I have come up with 6 tips that will help you to continue crocheting...even when the weather is heating up.

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#1 Think smaller projects like coasters.

Tara's latest crochet pattern for the "Vintage Coffee Coasters" is an excellent example of a small project that is not only cool to work on, but it is also portable and quick to make.

Vintage Coffee Coasters by Tara Schreyer

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#2 If you have your heart set on a larger project, how about motifs?

Motifs are a small project that pack a big punch. Since motifs are made individually they have all the same benefits of a small project, cool to work on, portable and quick to make. Once the cooler weather hits you can join them together to turn them into a queen bed cover, a table cloth, a scarf, a pillow. Your only limit is your imagination.

Bed of Flowers Baby Blanket by Tara Schreyer

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#3 Choose fibers that are cooler to work with.

Summertime is the perfect time to try out some new fibers. How about cotton, linen, bamboo and hemp, all of which create breathable fabric that is cool to wear in warm weather.

Girls Cotton Tam by Kim Miller

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#4 Use your downtime to unwind.

Don't let your kids "back to back" swimming lessons leave you feeling frustrated and bored. Instead, take advantage of this time to catch up on some reading and yes...crochet!

Chevron Dishcloths by Tara Schreyer

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#5 Pass the time while travelling

Crocheting is a wonderful way to pass the time while travelling. Whether you are travelling by car or plane, the trick is to think about your situation. Is there going to be a lot of quiet time, or are you going to be chatting with family and friends? Knowing your situation will help you to decide what kind of project you want to work on. 

Crocheting while flying may take some extra planning. Airport security may be a problem so it is usually a good idea check with your airline to see what items you will be allowed to take on the plane. If bringing a metal hook is a problem, than how about a plastic or wood hook? If blunt scissors are going to be an issue then you may need to get creative. I read once that someone used the cutter on a dental floss container to cut their yarn.  

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#6 Vacation time is crochet time!

Don't forget the pool, beach and camping. With minimal planning, you will find that all 3 are great places to bring your crochet. 

Spring Bunny by Josephine Wu

Have a wonderful summer, and may your days be filled with lots of relaxing time with crochet and hook!

kim and tara.

new crochet pattern - numbered storage bins by kim miller.

Numbered Storage Bins by Kim Miller

Numbered Storage Bins by Kim Miller

Skill Level: Easy/Intermediate

I love containers, and I never seem to have enough. Not only do containers store tons of stuff, but they also add charm to any decor.

Now you can crochet your own numbered containers. Classic stripes add a splash of colour, and 3 different sizes means that you can create nesting bins, or switch it up and make them all the same size. Plus, I show you an easy way to switch the colours without having to fasten off, and having a ton of yarn ends to work in.

This well written crochet pattern includes instructions for 3 different sized bins, and for the numbers 1 through to 3. This pattern is also complete with illustrations to help you to successfully complete you project.

The pattern calls for Bernat® Handicrafter® 100% Cotton 50 g (1.75 oz)/73 meters (80 yds) per ball which is a worsted weight 4, a 4.00 mm (G) crochet hook, and a yarn needle. This crochet pattern uses the following stitches: slip stitch, single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet, sc2tog and sc4tog.

Finished Measurements: 

Small Bin = Diameter 21.6 cm (8½”) and 14 cm (5½”) high. 

Medium Bin = Diameter 25.4 cm (10”) and 14 cm (5½”) high. 

Large Bin = Diameter 29.2 cm (11½”) and 14 cm (5½”) high. 

Please note that the finished sizes are approximate and will be affected by the gauge and the brand of yarn.

Buy Now

(Purchase this pattern from Ravelry.com and receive 20% off by using coupon code "STORAGEBINS20" at the checkout. 

Offer valid until June 30th, 2016)

kim.

new crochet pattern - vintage coffee coasters by tara schreyer.

 

Vintage Coffee Coasters by Tara Schreyer

 

These coasters were inspired from some coasters that my aunt had given to her. She loved them dearly but they were starting to show the love that they received over the years. She asked if I would be able to make her some new ones. Well, of course! But these had a little extra something that made them unique! They had a rubber ring (used in canning) incorporated into one of the rounds. Reminds me of how crafters, in days gone by, were very thrifty and creative in choosing their crafting materials. Therefore, I called them "vintage" as they make me think of simpler times.

This pattern offers well written instructions and figure pictures. It calls for only 5 grams/18.25 yards of sport weight cotton (or comparable yarn) and a 2-3/8” Rubber Sealing Ring for each coaster.

Finished size: 4 1/4” (10.8 cm) diameter.

Buy Now

(Purchase this pattern from Ravelry.com and receive 20% off by using coupon code "COASTERS20" at the checkout. 

Offer valid until June 30th, 2016)

tara.

sneak peek.

I'm an organizing junkie, and it seems that I never have enough storage bins...especially when it comes to yarn and crafts. I haven't quite decided what space I will be sprucing up with these classic, striped bins, but I'm super excited to share them with you!

I will let you know the minute that the crochet pattern is up!

kim.

sneak peek.

Coffee anyone? These coasters work up extremely quick, and have a secret component to keep them weighted and durable. 

These offer so much potential for individual creativity. Use a neutral colour for a classic look, or play with bright colours for a cheerful set. I'm working on the pattern now, and should have it up for you sometime next week!  

tara.

new crochet pattern - peekaboo ladders accent pillow by kim miller.

Peekaboo Ladders Accent Pillow by Kim Miller

Skill Level: Easy

Breath new life into your favorite space with this natural cotton, decorative pillow cover! This pillow cover is easy to crochet, and features an open work ladder stitch on the front...allowing your favorite accent colour to peek through. 

This well written crochet pattern has lots of illustrations to help you to successfully complete you project. The front panel is a 2 row repeat that is easy to memorize, and the back panel is worked almost entirely in single crochet (as illustrated in the third picture).

The pattern calls for 1 large ball of Lily® Sugar'n Cream 100% Cotton [400 g (14 oz)/650 meters (710 yds) per ball], a 4.25 mm (G) crochet hook, 4 – 35 mm (1.4”) buttons, and a yarn needle. This crochet pattern uses the following stitches: slip stitch, single crochet, double crochet, and reverse single crochet.

The finished pillow cover measures approximately 17x17” and fits a 18x18” pillow form. Please note that the finished size will be affected by the gauge and the brand of yarn. 

Buy Now

Purchase this pattern from Ravelry and receive 20% off your purchase by using coupon code "PeekabooLadders20" at the checkout. Offer valid until Wednesday, June 22nd, 2016 

kim.

diy crochet gifts for the teacher.

The end of the school year is quickly approaching, leaving many of us scouring the web for quick DIY gifts for the teacher. No worries...we have you covered. We have a great selection of crochet patterns that not only work up quickly, but will show your appreciation in a big way!

Nothing says "owl always love you" like our crochet pattern for the Owl Love Coffee Cozy.

Owl Love Coffee Cozy by Kim Miller

If you love the idea of a coffee cozy, but are uncomfortable with cables, then how about our popular crochet pattern for the Coffee Jacket?

Coffee Jacket by Kim Miller

Or what wise teacher wouldn't want one of these adorable characters from the Chubby Owl Family to decorate their desk, or hold up their books?

Chubby Owl Family by Tara Schreyer

Then there's always a grown up gift for your favorite teacher like the Jute Wine Bottle Sleeve?

Jute Wine Bottle Sleeve by Tara Schreyer

And of course we can't forget the timeless apple for the teacher...so why not dress your apple up with a Cabled Apple Jacket.

Cabled Apple Jacket by Kim Miller

For more quick, crochet gift ideas visit shop sections For the Home - Patterns and Cozies/Misc. - Patterns at knotsewcute.etsy.com.

kim and tara.