Needlecrafts - Crochet, Hexagon Granny Cardi

Large image | here
Inset images | pattern available here

Granny squares have fascinated and delighted crocheters for as long as I can remember.
During the 70's craft magazines were filled with granny square projects.
There was no shortage of ideas, either in fashion or decor.
At the time, the most popular yarn weight used was worsted and for the most part, acrylics.
What appealed to me about this design was the simplicity of the pattern.
You can virtually adapt this design to suit your every whim.
Personally, I like to keep it simple and let the yarn do the work.
This is where marls, tweed and multicoloured yarns are so good.
Whatever you pick, this design is fast, fun and fantastic.

Read further for more design inspiration, a free pattern and a video tutorial.

Large image | read complete tutorial here
Inset Images | read complete tutorial here

Continue reading...

Needlecrafts - Knit, Draped Cowl Tops

Image and free pattern | here

Draped cowl tops are not only stylish, but extremely flattering, especially for those who are considered full figured.
The increases you knit create folds, falling into a soft V-neck which attractively frames the face .
Draping the neck can be incorporated into many styles, depending how deep you want the cowl to be. Included are different techniques in draping the neck.
The tunic length free pattern in a soft cotton would be ideal as a coverup or over leggings.
Once you've decided on the type of garment, rethinking yarn and colour is all it takes. Basically speaking, this is definitely a keeper for your library.

Read further for more free draped cowl patterns, schematics, helpful tutorials on differenttypes of increases and finishing tips.

Continue reading...

Needlecrafts - Knit, Basic Pint-sized Cardi

Large image | Mamy Factory, Paris
Inset image | Le Petit Bateau

A simple, yet stylish cardigan is another basic garment pattern that's a must not only for adults but also for children.
A cardigan is the perfect, soft layer for kids. They're comfortable, easy to move in and every child should have these in their wardrobe, just like mommy.
The featured pattern, like the basic cap-sleeved cardi, lends itself to many different types of yarns and looks.
Use up your ends and make a striped style, a tweed for fall and of course cotton.
Also, like the basic cap-sleeved cardi, you are knitting the body in one piece. Easy peasy and a great shower gift.
Choosing different stitch patterns for this simple garment will give the beginner practice with their knitting skills.
If you are a crocheter, finishing all the edges with a scalloped edge or make simple eyelet holes for small buttons.
Read further for schematics, pattern, buttonhole tutorials, finishing tips and other helpful sites.

Continue reading...

Needlecrafts - Baby Shower Gifts, Nursing Capelets

Image and free pattern | Ravelry pattern library
PDF pattern (English version) directly from Pierrot Yarns, Japan | here

Nursing a baby in public when done discreetly is no longer such a delicate and controversial issue.
What is horrible are the modesty nursing capes available for this purpose. The capes are large, totally unfashionable and reminds one of the capes they use in hair salons.
By sheer fluke, I came across a practical, yet stylish capelet design from Pierrot Yarns in Japan.
My immediate response was to modify an existing capelet pattern for nursing in public. Remaining stylish, yet practical was the aim.
Really, any circular pattern can be modified, but a great choice is a simple pattern as it can be worked up quickly for a shower.
What a unique gift to present to the mother-to-be. Surely, everyone else will provide enough onesies and diapers.

Read further for an adapted capelet pattern and schematics,free patterns fo more inspiration including crochet, finishing tips and helpful sites.

Continue reading...

Needlecrafts - Crochet, Mesh Stitch Primer

All Images | style.com

There's nothing to hide this summer as it's all transparent where fashion is heading.
It can be sheer pleasure or sheer torture depending how you look at this trend.
To my eye, sheerness around the shoulders is delightful and sexy as shown in the very chic Gucci design.
This same sheerness can be translated into summer tops and tunics designed with open and easy to stitch mesh patterns.
A pullover or vest with an overall design in a mesh stitch can be complimentary to all body shapes with an attractive camisole underneath.
Crocheted skirts over leggings are stylish yet give you confidence in the coverage.
Read further to become totally inspired, get tutorials on different versions of the net stitch pattern and free crochet patterns that feature net patterns .

Continue reading...