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Thursday, June 19, 2014

Simple Slippers Pattern

 
I love slippers and I love nautical colors and themes for summer time. (I also love summer!) I wanted a simple slipper that I could slip on (say that five times fast) in the mornings to wear out on to my deck where I have my first cup of coffee.

I live in Western Idaho on a high desert which means cool summer mornings and blazing hot afternoons. It’s great fun! But that also means I can’t be wearing big ole’ heavy winter slippers around either. My feet will get too hot too fast. I don’t normally wear slippers past 8 AM any way, but you just never know.

I chose to use nautical or “patriotic” colors for my slippers. You could easily make these in all kinds of color combinations such as national flags, favorite sports teams, school mascots, seasonal or holiday themes just to get your creative juices flowing. (Perfect timing for all you soccer fans and World Cup watchers out there!)

I alternated between two or three rows of each color to create my striping effect but you could also break the slipper into thirds to achieve a color block effect or simple crochet a pair in a solid color. Your choice! (Shout out to my mother-in-law for modeling these simple crocheted slippers!)


Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue.

Size: Adult Women’s sizes 5 - 10

Skill Level: Easy

Materials:
Worsted weight or cotton yarn (Alternate colors as desired.)
Yarn/tapestry needle

Hook size: H/5.00mm (or hook needed to obtain gauge

Abbreviations:
CH = chain
SC = single crochet
HDC = half double crochet
DC = double crochet
JOIN = sl st to first stitch of round
MR = Magic Ring (tutorial here)
RND = Round
SL ST = slip stitch

Gauge:
4 dc = 1" across
2 rows = 1.25" height

Notes:
Chains do not count as stitches in this pattern.
Join your round to the first dc, not your chain.
Start your first stitch of each round in the same space as your chain.
Sizes are based on averages, measure the intended feet for a truer fit.



Pattern:

(Size 5/6)
Rnd 1: MR, Ch 2, 12 dc in magic ring, join. (12 dc)
Rnd 2: Ch 2, 2 dc in each st around, join. (24 dc)
Rnd 3 – 6: Ch 2, dc in each st around, join. (24 dc)
Rnd 7: Ch 2, dc 18, hdc, sc 4, hdc, join. (24 st)
Row 8 - 13: Ch 2, turn, dc 18. (18 dc)
Row 14: Ch 2, dc 4, hdc 3, sc 4, hdc 3, dc 4. (18 st)
To sew up heel: Turn slipper inside out, sl st to first dc of Row 18, pinch seam together and sl st through both sides down length of seam.
Break yarn, weave ends.

Turn slipper right side out to work simple edge around slipper opening.
(Working in top of slipper now, I like to use a contrasting color.)
Rnd 1: Ch 1, sc around evenly, join. Chain 15, sl st to first chain to form a loop.
Break yarn, weave ends.

(Size 7/8)
Rnd 1: MR, Ch 2, 12 dc in magic ring, join. (12 dc)
Rnd 2: Ch 2, 2 dc in each st around, join. (24 dc)
Rnd 3 – 8: Ch 2, dc in each st around, join. (24 dc)
Rnd 9: Ch 2, dc 18, hdc, sc 4, hdc, join. (24 st)
Row 10 - 15: Ch 2, turn, dc 18. (18 dc)
Row 16: Ch 2, dc 4, hdc 3, sc 4, hdc 3, dc 4. (18 st)
To sew up heel: Turn slipper inside out, sl st to first dc of Row 18, pinch seam together and sl st through both sides down length of seam.
Break yarn, weave ends.

Turn slipper right side out to work simple edge around slipper opening.
(Working in top of slipper now, I like to use a contrasting color.)
Rnd 1: Ch 1, sc around evenly, join. Chain 15, sl st to first chain to form a loop.
Break yarn, weave ends.

(Size 9/10)
Rnd 1: MR, Ch 2, 12 dc in magic ring, join. (12 dc)
Rnd 2: Ch 2, 2 dc in each st around, join. (24 dc)
Rnd 3 – 10: Ch 2, dc in each st around, join. (24 dc)
Rnd 11: Ch 2, dc 18, hdc, sc 4, hdc, join. (24 st)
Row 12 - 17: Ch 2, turn, dc 18. (18 dc)
Row 18: Ch 2, dc 4, hdc 3, sc 4, hdc 3, dc 4. (18 st)
To sew up heel: Turn slipper inside out, sl st to first dc of Row 18, pinch seam together and sl st through both sides down length of seam.
Break yarn, weave ends.

Turn slipper right side out to work simple edge around slipper opening.
(Working in top of slipper now, I like to use a contrasting color.)
Rnd 1: Ch 1, sc around evenly, join. Chain 15, sl st to first chain to form a loop.
Break yarn, weave ends.

If you are having trouble with the heel, check out the image, comment below or send me an email and I'll do my best to help!


Optional Embellishment:

I used Petals to Picots free Crochet Anchor Pattern to embellish the tops of my slippers since I was going for a nautical theme. I think the anchor is so adorable and sets off the slippers nicely. If you are using other colors or combinations and depending on the season, add flowers, buttons, ribbons and all sorts of accents to give your slippers personality and pizazz!

Enjoy your cozy new slippers!

Rock the hook,
Tia

Don't forget to rock with me over at Facebook, Pinterest and on Ravelry.

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

Solid Granny Coasters Pattern


Summer vacation is in full swing at my house and my boys are running wild! Their favorite summer holiday is the 4th of July - partly because they get to scarf on hot dogs and treats and partly because they get to watch things explode!

Aside from explosions and fireworks, I wanted to add some patriotic touches to my new patio set
Create crocheted coasters in all kinds of colors, combinations and themes to match or contrast your home décor, patio furniture or even office. I use Red Heart Super Saver or Lily Sugar’n Cream depending on personal preference or colors I’m going for.

Red Heart Super Saver is great for coasters made with sports team or school colors. The cotton yarn is nice because it’s so durable and washable, especially if your coasters have to endure spills and drips. Lily Sugar’n Cream comes in nice variegated color schemes too.


Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue.

Size: 4 x 4”

Skill Level: Easy

Materials:
Worsted or cotton yarn
Yarn/tapestry needle

Hook size: I/5.50mm

Abbreviations:
CH = chain
SC = single crochet
DC = double crochet
JOIN = sl st to first stitch of round
MR = Magic Ring (tutorial here)
PICOT = ch 3, sl st to 1st ch
RND = Round
SK = skip
SL ST = slip stitch
SP = space

Gauge:
4 dc = 1" across
2 rnds = 1.5" height

Notes:
Ch 3 counts as first dc throughout pattern.
This pattern is built with rounds, no turning necessary.

Pattern

Rnd 1: MR, Ch 3, 2 dc in ring, ch 2, [3 dc, ch 2] x3, join to 1st dc. Pull MR tight to close. (12 sts)
Rnd 2: Ch 3, 2 dc, [2dc, ch 2, 2dc in ch 2 sp], *3 dc, [2 dc, ch 2, 2dc in ch 2 sp], repeat 2x from *, join to 1st dc. (28 sts)
Rnd 3: Ch 3, 4 dc, [2dc, ch 2, 2dc in ch 2 sp], *7 dc, [2 dc, ch 2, 2dc in ch 2 sp], repeat 2x from *, 2 dc, join to 1st dc (ch 3). (44 dc)
Break yarn, weave ends. Or continue to optional finish round.

Optional Finish Round with Picots 

Rnd 4: Ch 1, sc, picot, sc 5, [sc, picot, sc] in ch 2 sp; *sc 6, picot, sc 5, [sc, picot, sc] in ch 2 sp, repeat 2x from *, sc 5, join to 1st sc. Break yarn, weave ends.


Like mine?
If you like my patriotic versions, crochet your rnds as follows:
Rnd 1: blue
Rnd 2: white
Rnd 3: red
Optional Finish Rnd: your choice!

You are done! Enjoy a patriotic and hydrated holiday!

Rock the hook,
Tia

Don't forget to rock with me over at Facebook, Pinterest and on Ravelry.

Thursday, June 12, 2014

Water Bottle Cozy Pattern


Hey Rockers!

Looking for cool ways to quench your thirst, stay hydrated and pack a water bottle or sports drink around with you? Have a go at my super simple water bottle cozy with a carry cinch strap! My boys love these and take them on our morning walks. Slip each strap over your shoulders like a back pack or slung across your chest or back sideways!

Crochet a few out of cotton to make them ultra-washable and kid-friendly, as well as light weight for summer fun. I’ve noticed the cozy tends to stretch out quite a bit after a few uses, so you may want to subtract a few rows if you plan to carry shorter bottles, your prerogative. Play around with colors too. This would be a fun cozy to crochet in sports team colors or school colors. Enjoy!


Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue.

Skill Level: Easy

Materials:
Worsted or cotton yarn
Yarn/tapestry needle

Hook size: I/5.50mm

Abbreviations:
CH = chain
BLO = back loops only
DC = double crochet
JOIN = sl st to first stitch of round
MR = Magic Ring (tutorial here)
RND = Round
SK = skip
SL ST = slip stitch
SP = space

Gauge:
4 dc = 1" across
2 rows = 1" height

Notes:
Chains do not count as stitches in this pattern.
Join your round to the first dc, not your chain.
Start your first stitch of each round in the same space as your chain.
* This pattern will fit most 16 – 24 oz. water bottles. (I used a Dasani brand 16.9 oz. water bottle for my pattern.)


Pattern:
Rnd 1: MR, ch 2, dc 12, join. (12 dc)
Rnd 2: Ch 2, 2 dc in each stitch around, join. (24 dc)
Rnd 3: Ch 2, dc in blo around, join. (24 dc)
Rnd 4 – 17: Ch 2, dc around, join.(24 dc)

Carry Cinch Strap
Ch 150, leaving 6 – 8” tail at each end. Weave chain in and out of dc’s in Rnd 17. Measure to make sure you have equal amounts left on each tail. Sew tails to Rnd 3 at bottom of water bottle cozy to make a handy carry cinch strap. Break yarn, weave in ends. My little guys even like wearing these around like little water bottle back packs!


Like mine?
If you like the patriotic version I did for the 4th of July, crochet your rnds as follows:
Rnds 1 – 7: blue
Rnds 8 – 17: Starting with white alternate white and red until finished. I carried my colors to each new row, rather than breaking yarn each time I began a new row.

Add an Optional Star Applique just for funsies!
Rnd 1: MR, ch 2, 11 hdc in magic loop. Sl st to first hdc. Do not turn.
Rnd 2: *Chain 5, Slip stitch to 2nd ch from hook, sc in next ch, 1 hdc in next ch, 1 dc in last ch. Skip 1 st from rnd 1, sl st to next st. Repeat from * 4 times. Finish off. Leave a long tail for sewing star to cozy.

You are done! Enjoy a fun fresh hydrated summer!

Rock the hook,
Tia

Don't forget to rock with me over at Facebook, Pinterest and on Ravelry.

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

Simple Can Cozy Pattern


Hey Rockers!

How’s your week going? Mine is great. I’m enjoying my boys’ first official week of summer vacation and so far it’s been pretty darn fun. We bought a new harness and leash for our doggie and take her on walks every day. I started art-journaling with the boys. We try to do a page each day. Other than that I’m trying to learn to live in the moment and enjoy spending time with my little guys.

Oh yes, I’m also experimenting with crochet projects for Father’s Day and 4th of July. You know, because I’m crazy like that. Here’s my take on a very simple can cozy you can crochet quickly for a last minute Father’s Day gift or festive addition to your Independence Day celebration. Make a set of four for Dad to share with friends, or crochet a basket full to pass out at your next barbeque.

I love that this simple can cozy can be crocheted in solid colors, variegated yarn, stripes or color blocked like the red-white-and-blue version I made. Add monograms or appliques to personalize this cute little cozy too. Or use your favorite sports team colors to add a little team spirit to your next event.

I also love that it fits short sodas, tall brewskies and tangy ice tea cans.


Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue.

Size: 12 - 16 oz. can

Skill Level: Easy

Materials:
Worsted or cotton yarn
Yarn/tapestry needle

Hook size: I/5.50mm

Abbreviations:
CH = chain
HDC = half double crochet
JOIN = sl st to first stitch of round

RND = Round
SL ST = slip stitch

Gauge:
3.5 hdc = 1" across
2 rows = 1" height

Notes:
Chains do not count as stitches in this pattern.
Join your round to the first dc, not your chain.
Start your first stitch of each round in the same space as your chain.

Pattern:

Ch 25, join with first ch to form a loop. (Be careful not to twist.) Do not turn.
Rnd 1: Ch 2, hdc around, join. (25)
Rnds 2 – 9: Repeat Rnd 1
Break yarn, weave ends.

*Add a few rows for taller cans (such as ice tea or beer cans). The circumference should still work fine.


Optional Star Applique
Rnd 1: MR, ch 2, 11 hdc in magic loop. Sl st to first hdc. Do not turn.
Rnd 2: *Chain 5, Slip stitch to 2nd ch from hook, sc in next ch, 1 hdc in next ch, 1 dc in last ch. Skip 1 st from rnd 1, sl st to next st. Repeat from * 4 times. Finish off. Leave a long tail for sewing star to cozy.

Like mine?
If you like the color blocked version I did for the 4th of July crochet your rnds as follows:
3 rows – blue, change color
3 rows – white, change color
3 rows – red.

You are done! Now your soda/beer/iced tea doesn't have to be naked this summer!

Rock the hook,
Tia

Don't forget to rock with me over at Facebook, Pinterest and on Ravelry.

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Easy Breezy Slouch Hat Pattern


Hey Rockers!

On Monday I shared my news of being the featured designer of the June Issue for Entwine Crochet Magazine. The pattern featured with my designer article is my new Easy Breezy Swimsuit Cover Up, which I'm kind of proud of as it's gotten a great response so far.

In honor of the feature and pattern, I decided to create a summer slouchy to go along with my "easy breezy" theme. Nice huh? I'm a thinker that way! So if you don't subscribe to Entwine or wouldn't necessarily wear a swimsuit cover up, here's another way to celebrate summer and slouchy hats!

I hope you enjoy this pattern. If you have any questions or find an error, please do leave a comment and I'll do my best to get back to you quickly!

Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue.

Size: Child - Adult

Skill Level: Easy

Materials:
Worsted weight or cotton yarn
Yarn/tapestry needle

Hook size: K/6.50mm

Abbreviations:
CH = chain
SC = single crochet
BLO = back loop only
JOIN = sl st to first stitch of round
RND = round
SK = skip
SL ST = slip stitch

Gauge:
Foundation row: 3 sc = 1”
Sc, chain 5, sc = 1" (length)
2 Rows = 1" (height)

Notes:
Chains do not count as stitches in this pattern.
Join your round to the first sc, not your chain.
Start your first stitch of each round in the same space as your chain.
This pattern creates a very forgiving, loose drape – which makes for a relaxed fit slouch hat.



Pattern

Child (average head circumference = 19 – 20”)
Ch 64, sl st to form loop, (be careful not to twist).
Rnd 1: Ch 1, sc in each ch around, join. (64)
Rnd 2 – 4: Ch 1, sc in BLO around, join. (64)
Rnd 5: Ch 1, *sc, chain 5, sk 3 sp, sc; repeat from * around to end, ch 5, sl st to 1st sc to join. (16 ch spaces)
Rnd 6: Ch 3, *sc in next ch sp, ch 5; repeat from * around to end, ch 5, sl st to 1st sc to join. (16 ch spaces)
Rnd 7 – 20: Repeat Rnd 6.
Rnd 21: Sl st in each ch sp around, join.
Break yarn, leave 6 – 8” tail. With yarn needle thread tail, weave in and out of sl sts from Rnd 26. Pull tight to close top of slouch hat. Tie off, trim yarn.

Teen/Adult Medium (average head circumference = 20 – 21”)
Ch 72, sl st to form loop, (be careful not to twist).
Rnd 1: Ch 1, sc in each ch around, join. (72)
Rnd 2 – 4: Ch 1, sc in BLO around, join. (72)
Rnd 5: Ch 1, *sc, chain 5, sk 3 sp, sc; repeat from * around to end, ch 5, sl st to 1st sc to join. (18 ch spaces)
Rnd 6: Ch 3, *sc in next ch sp, ch 5; repeat from * around to end, ch 5, sl st to 1st sc to join. (18 ch spaces)
Rnd 7 – 25: Repeat Rnd 6.
Rnd 26: Sl st in each ch sp around, join.
Break yarn, leave 6 – 8” tail. With yarn needle thread tail, weave in and out of sl sts from Rnd 26. Pull tight to close top of slouch hat. Tie off, trim yarn.

Adult Large (average head circumference = 21 – 22”)
Ch 80, sl st to form loop, (be careful not to twist).
Rnd 1: Ch 1, sc in each ch around, join. (80)
Rnd 2 – 4: Ch 1, sc in BLO around, join. (80)
Rnd 5: Ch 1, *sc, chain 5, sk 3 sp, sc; repeat from * around to end, ch 5, sl st to 1st sc to join. (20 ch spaces)
Rnd 6: Ch 3, *sc in next ch sp, ch 5; repeat from * around to end, ch 5, sl st to 1st sc to join. (20 ch spaces)
Rnd 7 – 27: Repeat Rnd 6.
Rnd 28: Sl st in each ch sp around, join.
Break yarn, leave 6 – 8” tail. With yarn needle thread tail, weave in and out of sl sts from Rnd 26. Pull tight to close top of slouch hat. Tie off, trim yarn.


You are done! Now go out and rock that easy breezy summer slouchy!

Rock the hook,
Tia

Don't forget to rock with me over at Facebook, Pinterest and on Ravelry.

Monday, June 2, 2014

News Worthy

http://entwinemagazine.com/

Hey Rockers!

I've got big news to share with you! I was invited to be the featured designer of the June Issue for Entwine Crochet Magazine. How awesome is that? So here's my little plug for this up and coming digital publication that brings you new patterns every month for a very affordable subscription price.

And my pattern in the June Issue is the Easy Breezy Swimsuit Cover Up, which I am extremely proud of. Also, some of you who know me personally may recognize the adorable model who also happens to be the daughter of my wonderful friend and next door neighbor! Nice huh?

She (Miss B) was so patient with my hubby as he snapped picture after picture in all sorts of strange contorted poses in an effort to show off the pattern and hide her knee brace. All in all, after approximately 125 images taken, we ended up with several great photos.

So that's the news for now. Stay tuned on Wednesday when I'll publish my new free pattern right here! Stick around and browse, or check back later - either way don't forget to "rock the hook" with me!

Cheers,
Tia

Don't forget to rock with me over at Facebook, Pinterest and on Ravelry.