1/27/2015

Needlecrafts - Crochet, Grannies Head to Toe

1/27/2015
Needlecrafts,Crochet - Grannies Head to Toe
A family of granny square accessories | all free Drops patterns available here
Who doesn't love granny squares?. They make you smile and feel happy. I've loved them forever.
A garment made with granny squares, on the other hand, can be overwhelming for some tastes with a very definite style.
My answer to that, "Make accessories!" Hats, wrist warmers, scarves and slippers. All very useful, quick to crochet and just enough pattern and color.
Slippers are a great gift and you can never have enough pairs for people who drop in. I have several pairs of slippers in my foyer, especially during the winter.
Whether you like it bright and colorful or shades that are subtle, there are plenty of slipper, hat and scarf/cowl pattern ideas for you to try .

Read further for helpful slipper how-to diagrams, video tutorials and great free patterns for friends and family.

1/20/2015

Needlecrafts - Knit, Capelet in the Round

1/20/2015
Needlecrafts - Knit, Circular Knitting a Capelet
Image | Nube Knitting Magazine
Knitting on a circular needle doesn't have to be a mystery, although I have to admit it was a tough sell when I began knitting. Holding a large number of stitches or thick yarn on two needles can be cumbersome, which is why a circular needle is recommended. There are a few tricks to remember when working in the round but these are very well explained in the video tutorials included below. The featured capelet pattern is ideal for a beginner with some experience. The design itself is not complicated and the recommended bulky weight yarn works up quickly. The shaping on the shoulders is easy, attractive and good way to learn about both simple and double decreases. This project is a perfect gift to yourself to wear on it's own or over a jacket for extra warmth. Read further for pattern, tips and video tutorials making it a breeze to knit with circular needles!

1/12/2015

Needlecrafts - Crochet, Oversize Hobobag

1/12/2015
Needlecrafts - Crochet - Oversize Hobobag
Inspirational images | Pinterest
Who doesn’t love boho? It’s so french, slightly gypsy and very comfortable. Incorporating a boho vibe with accessories is a good way to provide interest but still keep it simple. The over the top bohobags featured in the inspiration page step straight out of 1970s Marrakech, with heavily embellished bags dripping with embroidery, tassels and trim. The bag pattern featured is simple, great for everyday but if your heart is really into decorative pieces, by all means embellish to your heart's content. You could stripe the bag, add fringe, pompoms or even beads for when it's tribal or ethnic, more is more. A popular past post featuring 4 stylish hobobags are worked in the round, another way of looking at the big bag.

1/05/2015

Needlecrafts - Knit, Edgy Vests

1/05/2015
Needlecrafts - Knit, Edgy Vests
All inspirational images | style.com
When you think of it, sleeveless cardigans and pullovers make a lot of sense and are becoming the unsung heroes of transitional dressing. When it’s warm outside, wear the cardi with a tank top; when it gets cooler, wear it with another sweater underneath; when it gets downright cold (like now), wear it as an extra layer with a coat on top. Basically, it’ll carry you from summer to winter seamlessly. A sleeveless pullover or vest can be and is just as flexible a garment in your wardrobe.
Layering works on so many levels. You add texture and color interest to your outfit as well as the ability to add or subtract warmth. Long or really dress length looks fresher but if you prefer jacket or fingertip length, that can look equally as stylish with the right accessories.
Personally, I do like the tunic length, worn with a t-shirt, skinny jeans and slip-on patterned runners. You can't go wrong.
All of these ideas can be made from any drop shoulder pattern as this is the basis of your sleeveless, edgy sweater. Read further for tips on what to consider when modifying an existing pattern and 8 great free patterns to get started.