Ravelry

https://www.ravelry.com/

One of my all time favorite online places for crochet resources is Ravelry.com. If you haven't visited this site and you are a crocheter or knitter...do it right now! You will fall down the rabbit hole of free patterns and amazing resources. But it's okay. You will be better for the adventure.


I've been a "raveler" since November 2011 and I can't tell you how many times I've gone to this awesome website for inspiration, desperate gift ideas and all kinds of patterns for all kinds of things. I love that I can type in a keyword or two and the powerful search tool in Ravelry comes back with all kinds of options.

https://www.ravelry.com/designers/tia-davis

My designer profile page makes it easy for fans and followers to find my stuff. It's also a great resource for me, since sometimes I need to go back to a pattern I created. I also really like that I can sell patterns via Ravelry's paid pattern store option. The interface is easy to use and if you are interested in making money from your pattern designs it's definitely worth checking out.

That's about all I've got time for today. I've got to get some serious laundry done, check on why my boys' are so quiet in their rooms, and get a bit of lesson planning done for school next week. As always, I'm delighted to bring you crochet inspiration and a bit of fun too! #rockthehook #crochetrochelle

Connect with me here:

Ravelry - http://www.ravelry.com/designers/tia-davis

Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/CrochetRochelle

Pinterest - http://www.pinterest.com/CrochetRochelle

Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/crochetrochelle

2016 Pantone Color Of The Year

2016 Pantone Colors of the Year

 I am obsessed with the Pantone color of the year...each and every year. I always tell myself I am going to do SOMETHING with the the Pantone color of the year. Alas...I usually fail miserably. So this year, I'm not going to promise big Pantone type projects or features. I am going to simply share the knowledge and let you decide how you are going to use it.

So, what is the Pantone color of 2016? Pantone decided to tip the entire color wheel and fashion industry on its head this year and through us for a loop. They chose...two colors for 2016. I know right? Whaaaaa?

I'm pleased to introduce you to Rose Quartz and Serenity. Is it just me or do they look more like baby pink and powder blue?

Pantone describes their decision to choose two colors as this:

"For the first time Pantone introduces two shades, Rose Quartz and Serenity as the PANTONE Color of the Year 2016. Rose Quartz is a persuasive yet gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure. Serenity is weightless and airy, like the expanse of the blue sky above us, bringing feelings of respite and relaxation even in turbulent times." 


And for the curious crocheters and crafters, a history of Pantones.

Source

Source

How will you use the two new colors for 2016 Pantone's colors of the year? Or will you? I'd love to hear from you in the comments.

Rock the hook,
Tia

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

Goodbye 2015, Hello 2016

Source

2015 brought many changes to my family, my kids, my crochet business and most definitely my blog. I tried to go out on my own and start a freelance writing business. It wasn't a complete failure and I actually made some sweet coin. I neglected my crochet blog because I didn't have time to do both freelancing and blogging well at all. I quickly learned that I am not happy or fulfilled writing for stuffy clients. Yes, the money isn't too bad once you build up a clientele. But if you don't like writing for clients, or dealing with their obsessive nitpicking over word choice (especially when you chose to use correct grammar and they just don't get it)...well it's hard to keep at it day in and day out.

In May of 2015 I decided enough was enough, and closed down my freelance writing business. The fact that my husband and I are raising two growing boys and live somewhere in the middle class meant that I still needed to contribute to the household income. So, I secured a position as a bookkeeper at a local school. That was a wise decision. I have a 20 year banking and bookkeeping background so it's not new territory. And I have the same hours and holidays as my kiddos and a retirement plan - both wins.

Do I regret my foray into freelance writing? Nope! It was a great experience and even better lesson. I do regret staying away from my crochet blog for so long. I hope you didn't lose complete interest. If you did, that's okay too. Maybe I can woo you back in with free patterns and cool tools. Either way, I welcome 2016, recommit to my little blog and feel blessed to be writing again just for me, and you.

Happy 2016 and may the crochet be with you!

Rock the hook,
Tia

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

Coffee Cozy

(This pattern originally appeared online at Craftown.com. Copyrights have now reverted to me, the designer.)

Got mocha? Perfect for personalizing your "cup of joe" - this cute coffee cozy adds a little flair to your drink! Create a quirky coffee cozy with my free crochet pattern for yourself, a friend or as a quick gift. This project is simple and easy and great for beginners or anyone wanting a relaxing crochet project. Make some in a variety of colors and color combinations to really personalize your coffee cozy creations. This simple cozy would make a nice teacher gift too, paired with a coffee gift card of course!

*Note: This coffee cozy was made to fit a 16 oz. cup but could be easily adapted to fit larger or smaller cups.

Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue.

Skill Level:  Easy

Materials: Red Heart Worsted Weight Yarn in "Mexicana", large button, yarn needle

Hook size: I/5.50mm

Abbreviations:
CC = change color
CH = chain
SC = single crochet
SL ST = slip stitch
SC2TOG = single crochet decrease (or single crochet 2 together)

Gauge: 4 sc = 1 inch

Instructions:

Chain 31.
Row 1: Sc 30, ch 1, turn.
Row 2: Sc 10, 2 sc in next space, sc 10, 2 sc in next space, sc 8, ch 1, turn.
Row 3: Sc across row, ch 1, turn. (32 sc’s)
Row 4: Sc 10, 2 sc in next space, sc 10, 2 sc in next space, sc 10, ch 1, turn.
Row 5: Sc across row, ch 1, turn. (34 sc’s)
*Button closure: Ch 8, sl st to first ch. Proceed to Row 6.
Row 6: Sc 10, 2 sc in next space, sc 10, 2 sc in next space, sc 10, 2 sc in next space, sc 1, ch 1, turn.
Row 7: Sc across row, ch 1, turn. (37 sc’s)
Row 8: Sc 10, 2 sc in next space, sc 10, 2 sc in next space, sc 10, 2 sc in next space, sc 4, ch 1, turn.
Row 9: Sc across row, ch 1, turn. (40 sc’s)
Row 10: Sc 10, 2 sc in next space, sc 10, 2 sc in next space, sc 10, 2 sc in next space, sc 7.
Finish, weave ends in.

Bring It Together:
Using yarn and a yarn needle, sew the button onto the coffee cozy, approximately 2 inches in from edge on opposite side of button closure loop. This will make your coffee cozy fit snuggly on an average sized cardboard or Styrofoam 16 oz. coffee cup. (See image.)

Extras: The yarn I used tended to curl up so you may want to block this project when finished and before giving as a gift. Or use my shortcut: I saved a 16 oz. disposable coffee cup and used it as my form for the finished cozy. I put the cozy on the cup for a few days and that took out the kinks in the project, as the cup keeps the cozy on tight. Enjoy using or giving your finished coffee cozy!

Rock the hook,
Tia

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

Originally published at http://www.craftown.com/Coffee-Cozy.html

Water Bottle Cozy

(This pattern originally appeared online at Craftown.com. Copyrights have now reverted to me, the designer.)  
 
Getting ready for a workout or your favorite sport? Create your very own water bottle cozy to help you enjoy any sport or activity any time. Crochet a cozy to take on the go: while shopping, on vacation, playing your favorite sport, or any occasion.

Staying hydrated doesn’t get much cuter than a personalized water bottle cozy! Create one in any color with our free pattern. Enjoy your H2O in style! These also make fast and fun gifts or stocking stuffers!

Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue.

Skill Level:  Easy

Materials: Red Heart Super Saver in “Earth & Sky”

Hook size: I/5.50mm

Abbreviations:
CH = chain
SC = single crochet
DC = double crochet
MR = magic ring (tutorial here)
SP = space (stitch from previous round)
SL ST = slip stitch

Gauge: 4 dc = 1 inch

Instructions: (Make two.)

Start with a magic ring. (YouTube Magic Ring Tutorial)
Rnd 1: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), dc 11, sl st to first st. (12 dc)
Rnd 2: Ch 3, dc in same sp, 2 dc in each sp around to end, sl st to first st. (24 dc)
Rnd 3: Ch 3, dc in each sp around, sl st to first st. (24 dc)
Rnd 4 – 12: Repeat Rnd 3. (24 dc)
Carry Loop: Ch 15, sl st to first dc of Rnd 12. (See image.)
Finish, weave in ends.

*Note: This crochet pattern will fit most 16 – 24 oz sized water bottles. (I used a Nestle brand 16.9 oz water bottle for my pattern.)

Rock the hook,
Tia

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

Originally published at http://www.craftown.com/Water-Bottle-Cozy.html

Circle Motif Earrings

(This pattern originally appeared online at Craftown.com. Copyrights have now reverted to me, the designer.)  
 
Crocheted jewelry always add a little bit of bohemian style to any outfit. Create your very own pair of crocheted earrings to coordinate with your outfit or crochet several pairs in different colors and color combinations to enjoy all year! These fun homemade earrings would also make a nice thank you or appreciation gift for someone special.

Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue.

Skill Level:  Easy

Materials: Aunt Lydia’s Classic Size 10 Thread – any color, fish hook style earrings, needle

Hook size: 4/2.00MM

Abbreviations:
CH = chain
SC = single crochet
DC = double crochet
MR = magic ring (tutorial here)
SL ST = slip stitch

Gauge: not needed

Instructions: (Make two.)

Start with a Magic Ring.
Rnd 1: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), dc 11 in ring, sl st to join. (12 dc.)
Rnd 2: Ch 1, 2 sc in each sp around. sl st to join. (24 sc.)
Rnd 3: Ch 5, *skip 1 sp, 2 dc in next sp, ch 2, repeat from * around to end until you reach beginning ch. Dc in same space as beginning ch 5, sl st to 3rd ch to finish round, sl st to join. (52 st.)
Rnd 4: Ch 1, *2 sc in ch 2 space, sc 2, repeat from * around to end, sl st to join. (52 sc.)
Finish, leave about 8 – 10 inch tail to use to fasten motif to earring.

Rock the hook,
Tia

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

Originally published at http://www.craftown.com/Crochet-Earrings2.html

Etsy Shop Is Open For Biz!

Hey Rockers!

Guess who jumped on the band wagon and opened an Etsy shop? It's me! I'm super stoked about this new entrepreneurial adventure. What prompted the decision to open an Etsy Crochet Pattern Shop? 1. It's something I've been tossing around in my head for awhile and 2. I wasn't laid off from my day job as a content manager about four weeks ago.

You could say I'm much more inspired to get my little pattern boutique up and rolling, since losing my primary source of income. I've wanted to go rogue and self employed via crochet pattern design for awhile, now I just have extra motivation.

So, if you've got a few minutes and have an Etsy account, I wouldn't mind at all if you logged in and gave my shop a look-see. Maybe even favorite it? But only if you like what you see. No pressure. Serious. If you don't have an Etsy account, or have never shopped on Etsy...

I highly recommend you visit. Soon. Because there are huge amounts of cuteness and unique products just waiting for you to discover them. You can find everything from vintage lamps to wooden iPad stands. And everything in between. I also like to lurk on Etsy just to get inspiration for new ideas or designs for my crochet and painting. (Bet you didn't know I painted did you!)

Alright. I've plugged my new Etsy shop and imposed on your time long enough! Here's the url just in case it's easier for you to find:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/CrochetRochelleShop

Rock the hook,
Tia

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

Iron Man Soda Cozy

(This pattern originally appeared online at Craftown.com. Copyrights have now reverted to me, the designer.)  
 
Got super hero fans and soda cans? Crochet an Iron Man soda cozy to keep your soda nice and cool while you bask in the sun and enjoy summer, Avengers style – fun and full of adventure! Create a super hero soda cozy for all the heroes in your house and enjoy the super cheers for your efforts.

Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue.

Skill Level: Easy
Materials: Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice in Red, White, Yellow and Black

Hook size: H/5.00mm, yarn needle

Abbreviations:
CH = chain
SC = single crochet
HDC = half double crochet
DC = double crochet
SL ST = slip stitch

Gauge:
4 hdc = 1" width
2 rows = 1" height

Instructions:

Soda Cozy
Yellow: Chain 30, join with first ch to form a loop. Do not turn.
Row 1: Ch 2. (This will serve as your first hdc in each row.) Hdc in each chain to the end. Join with ch 2 stitch. Do not turn.
Row 2: Change to Red . Ch 2. Hdc in each stitch across. Join with ch 2 stitch. (30 scs)
Rows 3 – 10: Repeat Row 2.
Row 11: Change to Yellow, Ch 2. Hdc in each stitch across. Join with ch 2 stitch. (30 scs)
Finish off, weave in ends.

Iron Man Applique
White: Chain 9.
Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook across (8 scs). Ch 1. Turn
Row 2: Sc2tog, 4 sc, sc2tog. Ch 1. Turn.
Row 3: Sc2tog, 2 sc, sc2tog. Ch 1. Turn.
Row 4: Sc2tog, sc2tog. Ch 1. Turn.
Row 5: Sc2tog. Do not turn.
Rnd 1: Change to Black. Sc across to end (approximately 7 scs). Sc 3 in corner of triangle. Sc across to end (approx. 7 scs). Sc 3 in corner of triangle. Sc across to end (approx.. 7 scs). Sc 2 in last corner. Join to first sc of round. Finish off. Weave in end.

Bring It Together:
Using white yarn and a yarn needle, sew the applique onto the soda cozy, centered approximately in the middle.  (See image.)
Enjoy!

Rock the hook,
Tia

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

Originally published at http://www.craftown.com/Iron-Man-Soda-Cozy.html

Captain America Inspired Soda Cozy

(This pattern originally appeared online at Craftown.com. Copyrights have now reverted to me, the designer.)  
 
Summer is here and it’s time to get ready for some fun! One of the best things about summer is an ice-cold summer soft drink, iced tea or juice.  What’s worse than sweating on a sweltering summer afternoon? A warm drink! The solution = Crochet a soda cozy to keep your soda nice and cool while you bask in the summer sun. Create one in every color of the rainbow, hand them out to friends and family, and enjoy your summer cool down drink!

This pattern also doubles as a fun little gift for the Super Heroes/Avengers fan in your life!

Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue.

Size: 12 - 16 oz. can

Skill Level: Easy

Materials: Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice in Red, White, & Blue, yarn needle

Hook size: H/5.00mm

Abbreviations:
CH = chain
SC = single crochet
HDC = half double crochet
DC = double crochet
SL ST = slip stitch

Gauge:
4 hdc = 1" width
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.

Instructions:
Soda Can Cozy
Blue = Chain 30, join with first ch to form a loop. Do not turn.
Row 1: Ch 2. (This will serve as your first hdc in each row.) Hdc in each chain to the end. Join with ch 2 stitch. Do not turn. (30 scs)
Row 2: Ch 2. Hdc in each stitch across. Join with ch 2 stitch. (30 scs)
Row 3: Change to white, Ch 2. Hdc in each stitch across. Join with ch 2 stitch.
Row 4: Change to blue, Ch 2. Hdc in each stitch across. Join with ch 2 stitch.
Row 5: Ch 2. Hdc in each stitch across. Join with ch 2 stitch.
Row 6: Repeat Row 3.
Row 7: Repeat Row 4.
Row 8: Repeat Row 5.
Row 9: Repeat Row 3.
Row 10: Repeat Row 4.
Row 11: Repeat Row 5. Finish off.  Weave in ends.

Star Applique:
Red: Chain 3.
Rnd 1: 10 hdc in third ch from hook. Sl st to first hdc. Do not turn.
Rnd 2: *Chain 5. Slip stitch to 2nd ch from hook, 1 sc in 3rd ch from hook, 1 hdc in next ch, 1 dc in last ch; repeat from * 4 times. Finish off. Leave a long tail for sewing star to soda cozy.

Bring It Together
Using red yarn and a yarn needle, sew the star applique onto the soda can cozy, centered in the middle.  (See image.)
You are ready to enjoy a cool refreshing drink in your new Captain America Soda Cozy!

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

Originally published at http://www.craftown.com/Captain-America-Soda-Cozy.html

American Soda Cozy Pattern

Hey Rockers!

A couple of years ago, when I first started creating my own patterns, I came up with a simple soda can cozy in a "Captain America" theme for my brother's birthday. His wife was throwing him an Avengers birthday party so I thought matching soda cozies would be awesome. That's just the kind of sister I am!

(Yes, he is an adult. But really, who doesn't like Captain America and the Avengers?)

Looking back over my soda cozies, I thought this pattern would also be fitting for a Memorial Day picnic or Independence Day barbeque, or any patriotic themed event. Not from the USA? No problem. Just choose colors from your home country's flag and celebrate your way.

This soda cozy fits all standard size soda and beer cans. It also fits most glass beer bottles too. Nice!

Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue.

Skill Level: Easy

Supplies:
Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice in Red, White, & Blue
yarn needle

Hook: size H/5.00mm

Key:
CH = chain
SC = single crochet
HDC = half double crochet
DC = double crochet
SL ST = slip stitch

Gauge:
4 hdc = 1" length

Instructions:
Since I originally published the pattern at Craftown, you'll have to get the pattern instructions to make this festive soda cozy over there!

Enjoy your weekend, holiday and Memorial Day - wherever you may be!

Rock the hook, 
Tia

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

Something Different!

Felt Heart Gloves

Hey Rockers,

Today I'm sharing something a little different. I know it's not crochet, but these little cuties are frugal, fun and adorable...so I couldn't help showing them off. If you don't already know, I work as a content manager for a craft website as my day job. It's a sweet gig. I work from home, my boss is awesome and I am off by the time my boys get out of school in the afternoon.

Anyway, this week I was searching for a fun and unique gift for my sons' teachers for Valentine's Day. We chose some candy and decorated some gift jars...but it just didn't feel complete. So I dug through my craft stash and found $1 stretchy gloves (from Wal-Mart) and pink felt. I thought to myself..."Yeah, I can work with that!"

And so was born the Felt Heart Gloves! You can find the full tutorial (with pictures) over at Craftown.com. Make some for yourself, or share a few pairs with friends. The tutorial is very simple, kid-friendly (probably ages 8+), and would make a sweet craft for a girl's party or girl's craft night.

Happy Valentine's Day!

xx

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

Small Petal Flower

Hi Rockers!

I bet you are wondering what I've got for you today! Turns out, I had one more flower pattern in me. (Well, I probably have more, but for now I'm going to give you this one and move on to other projects.)

This flower pattern is very similar to my last flower pattern - The Double Crochet Flower, but with smaller petals. It is also constructed in the same manner as the Triple Crochet Flower. If you haven't seen these two free patterns yet, do try them when you get time.

I love the flexibility of these flower patterns. You can make them as small or as large as you like. And they become such lovely accents for hats, scarves, cowls and all kinds of other garments and projects.

Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue.

Size: varies

Skill Level: Beginner

Materials:
Caron SS or Red Heart With Love
Yarn/tapestry needle

Hook size: H/5.00mm

Key:
CH = chain
SC = single crochet
HDC = half double crochet
DC = double crochet

Gauge: none required

Instructions:

Chain 40+1 (small flower), 60+1 (medium flower) or 80+1 (large flower)
Pattern Note: for an even larger flower, add chains in multiples of 10+1 and follow pattern.
Row 1: sc in 2nd chain from hook, sc across, turn.
Row 2: chain 5, skip 4 spaces, sc, [ch 4, skip 4 spaces, sc] repeat across, turn.
Row 3: Ch 1, [1 sc, 1 hdc, 4 dc, 1 hdc, 1 sc, sl st to sc from previous row] repeat in each ch 4 space from Row 2 across.
Break yarn, leaving 12 inch tail for sewing flower together.

You should now have a long strand of petals that are starting to curl/twist a bit. Now for the fun! Use the long tail to thread your needle.

Begin to roll the petals around, using the yarn needle and tail to secure the petals together as you roll. Be sure to reinforce the shape with a few extra whip stitches as you go.

Finish by securing the last petal. Use the rest of the tail to sew your flower to a hat or other object, or simply finish and weave ends for a detachable flower accent or brooch.

Pattern Note: For a taller flower, roll petals more tightly. For a wider, more flat flower, roll petals more loosely. See the images for clarification.

You are all done! I hope you enjoy crocheting and using this simple flower. Don’t forget to check out my other free flower patterns – the Triple Crochet Flower and the Double Crochet Flower. If you have any questions, please do leave me a comment below and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Rock the petal,

xx

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

Double Crochet Flower

Hey Rockers!

I had so much fun with my flower pattern last week that I decided to add another one! This Double Crochet flower is very similar to my previous free flower pattern, the Triple Crochet Flower. The petals are slightly smaller and less full. 

Sewing the flower petals together to form your flower is a little tricky at first. Good news: if you hate the way the petals are laying or how tall [or short] the flower is, you can always take out the whip stitches, unravel your petals and start again.

I still take my flower apart if it doesn’t come together just so. Play with this pattern and experiment until you get your flower to look the way you want. I love this flower for that very reason – it’s so flexible and quick, once you get the hang of it.

Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue.

Size: varies

Skill Level: Beginner

Materials:

Caron SS or Red Heart With Love

Yarn/tapestry needle

Hook size: H/5.00mm

Key:

CH = chain

SC = single crochet

HDC = half double crochet

DC = double crochet

Gauge: none required

Instructions:

Chain 40+1 (small flower), 60+1 (medium flower) or 80+1 (large flower)

Pattern Note: for an even larger flower, add chains in multiples of 10+1 and follow pattern.

Row 1: sc in 2^nd chain from hook, sc across, turn.

Row 2: chain 6, skip 4 spaces, hdc, [ch 4, skip 4 spaces, hdc] repeat across, turn.

Row 3: Ch 1, [1 sc, 1 hdc, 6 dc, 1 hdc, 1 sc, sl st to hdc from previous row] repeat in each ch 4 space from Row 2 across.

Break yarn, leaving 12 inch tail for sewing flower together.

You should now have a long strand of petals that are starting to curl/twist a bit. Now for the fun! Use the long tail to thread your needle.

Begin to roll the petals around, using the yarn needle and tail to secure the petals together as you roll. Be sure to reinforce the shape with a few extra whip stitches as you go.

Finish by securing the last petal. Use the rest of the tail to sew your flower to a hat or other object, or simply finish and weave ends for a detachable flower accent or brooch.

Pattern Note: For a taller flower, roll petals more tightly. For a wider, more flat flower, roll petals more loosely. See the images for clarification.

You are all done! I hope you enjoy crocheting and using this simple flower. Don’t forget to check out my other free flower pattern – the Triple Crochet Flower. If you have any questions, please do leave me a comment below and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Rock the flower,

xx

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