Needlecrafts - Crochet, Working Around Hexagons

Image | Keito Dama 140

Whenever you see a creative design detail used in an unexpected way, you take notice.
The clever treatment of the negative space between the hexagon shapes proved to be most inspiring by opening up new possibilities for linking motifs .
Hexagon motifs are six sided and honeycomb shaped. They can be worked into a solid, lacy or more inticate, layered motif.
There are many lovely patterns readily available for both the beginner and more advanced crocheter.
Traditionally, these shapes were used for afghans or throws with the edges left uneven or half motifs used to fill in edge spaces.
The simple motifs used in this design are smaller with the "holes" in between filled in with contrast double crochet shells or stitches worked over a chain space.
An easy beginning project for this decorative detail could be a scarf or to edge a shrug or cardigan fronts.

Read further for tutorials, free patterns and ideas for working around hexagons.

Continue reading...

DIY Restyle - Key Denim Trends S/S '14

Right, middle image | Junya Watanabe F/W 2013
Left image | DKNY, S/S 2014

Putting your own personal stamp on an item of clothing, whether purchased, vintage or handmade seems to resonate with a lot of people.
Mass production producing multiples of the same garment lacks any kind of personality, something we crave these days.
Denim jeans during the 60's had that kind of edge. Patchwork, embroidery were added with pride.
Practical and above all comfortable (for the most part), denim is definitely a go-to piece of clothing for whatever you are doing.
The trend that seems to be growing is the idea of collecting a look to put together.
Patches used in Junya Watanabe's jeans are different kinds of plaid and the patches themselves are grand in size, not the small patches used to cover holes.
Side stripes really mimic the tuxedo pant with the side embellishment, but why stop there?
The are so many ribbons, especially vintage ribbons allowing the denim to ooze with personality. As far as the embroidered logos, don't stop at one kind. There are sequined appliques that would add instant glamour to a pair of plain old jeans

Continue reading...

Needlecrafts - Knit, Loopy Over Capelets

Image and adapted pattern | purchase Nube Knitting Magazines here

The harsh winter we've been experiencing is definitely calling out for some happy colours to put a smile on your face.
Loopy, bumpy textures and mouthwatering shades of melon and berries make this project a treat to knit.
Worked from the top down, a soft rolled neck is increased to a slouchy, comfy capelet.
After trying this quirky little pattern stitch, I was amazed at how quickly it worked up and how much fun it was to knit.
Perfect to throw on and stay toasty on a chilly evening if you like to keep the thermostat lower.

Read further for the pattern and tutorial on how to knit the Loop Stitch.

Continue reading...

Needlecrafts - Crochet, Poncho with Flare

Peplums on garments seem to be a style everywhere in fashion from t shirts to jackets.
Unfortunately, this style is not always easy to wear, especially if the body itself is formfitting.
My idea of comfort is an oversize garment and a design that can be adapted for different seasons and types of yarns.
Inspiration struck when looking at a blouse with a very loose flare or flounce and a loose body.
Since poncho styles seem to be popular, I decided to design a very easy garment with a flared band or skirting.
As I looked around for yarn, I came across an unfinished project which consisted of a few crocheted squares, probably intended for a shrug.
This was an excellent starting point where I didn't have to start from scratch.
You may also want to think of this pattern for the spring or summer crocheted with a lovely soft cotton.
This design is very easy to customize either in the squares and also in the skirting as this is your waist.

Read further for the pattern instructions, schematics and also a thank you to Erin, a colleague and a very patient model.

Continue reading...

Needlecrafts - Knit, Crochet - Braiding Ideas

Image | Benissimo Magazine

Large image | Chainlink braid, free tutorial here
Top and middle inset images | Interweave Rapunzel scarf pattern for purchase here
Bottom image | Youtube video - crochet weaving see video after jump.

One of the easiest ways to add interest to any garment is to add trim.
Trims can be opulent and glitzy or simple and humble. It depends on your own preference and the look you are trying to achieve.
Braid trims have always attracted my eye, from child-like prints to ornate velvet ones.
What better way to trim out a simple toque, sweater front bands, v neckline, boat neck or just to make a cowl neck scarf than with knitted or crocheted bands.
Working strips into braids is not only easy but also versatile and cost effective.
In everyone's stash, at least in mine, there are oddballs of expensive, lovely yarns that really need to be used and shown off.
Even if they are different weights, you can compensate by making the thicker or bulky strip first, measure the finished strip and then work the finer yarns accordingly by working more stitches and rows.

Read further to be inspired by different ways braids can be used and free tutorials for different braid projects.

Continue reading...