Free Patterns

Techniques for different crochet stitches: A Crochet Stitch Guide from the Crochet Me Experts

Toni Rexroat — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 23:37:44 GMT

Are you learning how to crochet or looking for a few tips on crochet stitch basics? Let's start with the basics. Every crochet project is built from a series of cleverly placed crochet stitches. And a solid understanding of the crochet basic stitches is essential for any crocheter.

In this free eBook, you will find a crochet stitch guide for the basic stitches you will need to create beautiful works of crochet art.

A handy list of crochet abbreviations will be invaluable as you learn to interpret the language of crochet. Keep this handy list close at hand.

There are several different crochet stitches available to start your crochet project. The most common method is the chain stitch. This easy crochet stitch is not only the base of many crochet projects but is also an essential stitch to know when creating lace fabrics and the simplest stitch in your repertoire.

The adjustable loop is a great option for projects such as hats where you do not want an opening on your first round of stitches. The ingenious adjustable loop is also known as the magic ring or magic loop.

For a foundation with elasticity, try the foundation single crochet or foundation double crochet. These easy crochet stitches allow you to work both the beginning chain and first row of single crochet or double crochet stitches at the same time. No more trying to work stitches into a beginning chain.

The slip stitch and single crochet are the shortest of the crochet stitches. These sturdy stitches are perfect for joining rounds and for working solid fabrics and colorwork techniques such as Bosnian crochet and tapestry crochet.

The half double crochet beautifully blends added height with a dense fabric. This easy stitch is a great introduction to the yarn over.

For a taller stitch, try the double crochet and treble crochet. These quick stitches are beloved for their economical use of yarn and their speed. Projects worked in these basic stitches boast incredible drape but do not provide as dense of coverage as their smaller cousins.

The Wool Bam Boo Scarf by Judith L. Swartz will build on the crochet stitches you have learned and introduce you to decreases. This beautiful crocheted scarf is worked in a soft wool and bamboo-blend yarn.

Use the basic crochet stitches you just learned to whip up the Quick Cuffs by Toni Rexroat. The 100% wool yarn means these cuffs keep you warm on cold days, and the variegation allows them to be worn with multiple outfits.

As you combine and build on these basic crochet stitches, you will form a solid crochet foundation. So download your free copy of Techniques for Different Crochet Stitches: A Crochet Stitch Guide from the Crochet Me Experts today. We would love to see your work; share pictures of your projects in the Crochet Me member gallery.

5 Free Crochet Shawl Patterns: Inspiring Designs for a Lace Shawl, Irish Crochet Shawl, Prayer Shawl, and More

Toni Rexroat — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 18:22:10 GMT

A shawl is the perfect accessory! With a crocheted shawl, you can add a touch of sophistication, ward off the cold, or let someone know that you care.

In this exciting free eBook, we have compiled five beautiful shawl patterns, including an elegant and lacy shawlette, a cozy wrap, and the perfect capelet. You will find the perfect shawl for any occasion.

Long chains and solo single crochet stitches create the airy Sprout Chains Shawlette by Kristin Omdahl. This sweet little shawl is the perfect accessory for a pretty dress or to wrap around your neck for a fun scarf. Dainty flowers finish off this easily memorized pattern.

The Flowers for Eryn Wrap by Tracy St. John was inspired by traditional Irish lace crochet. Shell-stitch panels and a mesh border frame the vintage roses. The length of this cozy wrap can be easily adjusted by simply working longer or shorter shell-stitch panels.

The Waffle Lattice Shawl by Elin Nybø is created with simple crocheted chains of varying lengths. The chains are felted to create the soft, fuzzy texture.

Chanson en Crochet by Mari Lynn Patrick begins with a simple crocheted chain at the neck edge before falling effortlessly around the shoulders in bands of elegant lace. This vintage capelet is the ideal opportunity to play with different lace patterns. A row of picot stitches around the neck and lower edges add the perfect finishing touch.

Crochet a Hug by Marcy Smith was designed while drawing on the tradition of prayer shawls. The easy wattle-stitch pattern, comprised of three basic stitches, is quickly memorized and wonderfully meditative. Create one for yourself or several as gifts.

Shawls are the go-to project to pair with that little black dress for a special occasion or to give to a friend in need of comfort. Whether you are looking for an eye-catching shawl for yourself or the perfect pattern for a friend, 5 Free Crochet Shawl Patterns: Inspiring Designs for a Lace Shawl, Irish Crochet Shawl, Prayer Shawl, and More has you covered. We would love to see your work; share your pictures in the Crochet Me member gallery.

Best wishes,

Potholders

Toni Rexroat — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:50:25 GMT

Colorful crochet potholders are a perfect beginner project.

Designer Marilyn Murphy
Size 6" square
Yarn Knit Picks Shine Sport (60% Pima cotton; 40% Modal; 110 yd [99 m]/50 g), one ball each:
• #6560 grass (A)
• #8066 coral (B)
Gauge 15 sts and 26 rows = 4" in patt
Tools
• Size F (4mm) crochet hook
• Yarn needle

Spider Web Veil

Toni Rexroat — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:25:33 GMT

A fun accessory to add to a hat or perch on your head.

Designer Regina Rioux Gonzalez
Size 11" wide and 5½" tall at longest point
Yarn Plymouth Encore DK (75% acrylic, 25% wool; 150 yd [138 m]/50 g): #1386 red, 1 skein
Gauge 6 sc and 6 rows = 1"
Tools
• Size E/4 (3.5 mm) crochet hook
• Yarn needle

BFF Finger Puppets

Toni Rexroat — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:04:52 GMT

This pair of finger puppets brings knit and crochet together in harmony. One doll is knitted, the other is crocheted. The features are embroidered.

Designer Marcy Smith
Finished Size 3¾" tall.
Yarn Spud & Chloë Fine (80% superwash wool, 20% silk, 248 yd [227 m]/65 g): #7808 sassafras (pink; A), #7803 dachshund (brown; B), #7800 popcorn (white; C), and #7805 anemone (blue; D), 1 skein each. Yarn distributed by Blue Sky Alpacas.
Hooks and Needles Pinki: size C/2 (2.75 mm) crochet hook; Blu: size 3 (3.25 mm): double-pointed needles (dpn) and size C/2 (2.75 mm) crochet hook. Adjust needle or hook size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge.
Notions
• Markers (m);
• tapestry needle;
• small amount of fiberfill.
Gauge 32 sts and 40 rows = 4" in St st on needles; 28 sts and 24 rows = 4" in sc.

Correction: Row 21: With B, knit.

Simple Crochet Patterns from Crochet Me: 5 Free Easy Crochet Patterns

Toni Rexroat — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 22:42:11 GMT

We all love simple, quick projects! Whether you are just learning to crochet or have been crocheting for fifty years, easy patterns are the perfect go-to projects for traveling, keeping your hands busy while chatting with friends, and gift giving.

In this fabulous free eBook, we have compiled five quick and simple patterns to grace your home, create a heartfelt gift, or accessorize a stylish ensemble.

Worked in a simple spiral of single crochet, the Country Rug by Susan Huxley combines four colors of soft, bulky alpaca to create a randomly patterned rug inspired by folk art. This straightforward pattern includes information of working the rug as small or as large as you would like. Make a little rug for a quaint bathroom or an eye-catching work of art for a cozy living room.

The Hook & Weave Shrug by Jennifer Orr is a warm one-size-fits-all shrug worked in luscious alpaca. Perfect for a beginning crocheter, this simple pattern introduces single crochet, double crochet, and treble crochet. A contrasting yarn is woven through the stitches to add interest to this easy shrug.

Add some sparkle to your crochet with the Yellow Leaf Bracelet by Amy Clarke Moore. Dainty leaf beads are pre-strung and worked in a simple beaded single crochet. This trendy accessory is a fun gift for all ages and a great introduction to thread crochet.

Motif squares create a hip accessory in the Linen Belt by Mary Jane Mucklestone. The linen yarn, held double, and lacy motifs create a pleasing contrast for this simple fashion accessory. Add your own buckle to reflect your own style.

The Organic Cotton Washcloth for Babies by Kim Werker makes a lovely gift, wrapped up with a bar of all-natural soap. The organic cotton yarn and easy stitch pattern creates a durable, textured washcloth ideal for babies. You will love this quick project so much, you may just have to make a couple for yourself.

Whether you are looking for a quick gift, an effortless accessory, or an easy stashbuster, you will find the perfect pattern in Simple Crochet Patterns from Crochet Me: 5 Free Easy Crochet Patterns. Create one, two, or all five projects and load pictures to the Crochet Me member gallery. We would love to see your work.

How to Crochet Sweaters: 5 Free Crochet Sweater Patterns from Crochet Me

Toni Rexroat — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 21:59:44 GMT

You can never have too many sweaters! Cotton short-sleeved sweaters are perfect for summer or pair them with a long-sleeved shirt for spring and fall. Nothing is better than a warm, cozy cardigan on a chilly winter evening. And a beautiful sweater is a wonderful canvas on which to showcase the splendor of crochet, whether it's lace, Tunisian, or simple single crochet.

In this free eBook, we have collected a fun and unique selection of crocheted sweaters, cardigans, and pullovers just for you. Whether you are ready to begin your first sweater, start a cardigan as a gift, or looking for the perfect sweater to add to your collection, you will find something for everyone.

Created entirely with single crochet, the Singular Tee by Regina Rioux Gonzalez boasts flattering hourglass shaping and striking horizontal stripes. This crocheted sweater is simple enough to be your first sweater and a perfect year-round top.

The Fuchsia and Blues Jacket by Pam Gillette is a fabulous first sweater and a quick and satisfying project. This swing jacket is worked in a simple seed stitch that amplifies the texture of the bulky wool and cotton yarn. A striking single button fastens the neck of this A-line jacket.

Crochet and knit blend in the classic Mélange Turtleneck by Katie Himmelberg. The knitted bodice is elegantly tailored and crocheted shells create lacy long sleeves and collar. Both the bodice and lace are created with a soft baby alpaca yarn.

The Weekend Jacket by Annette Petavy marries a simple stitch pattern with broad horizontal stripes to create a cozy jacket, perfect for a relaxing weekend. This stylish cardigan has a classic collar, set-in sleeves, and simple waist shaping.

The Wool Bam Boo Cardigan by Kristen TenDyke is worked in Tunisian knit stitch, creating a warm and dense fabric. A delicate lace edging at the hem and cuffs adds a feminine touch to this warm cardigan.

So choose your favorite pattern and add another great sweater to your closet. I hope you enjoy the collection of free sweater patterns assembled in the How to Crochet Sweaters: 5 Free Sweater Patterns from Crochet Me.

Best wishes,

P.S. Do you have friends who would like to crochet their first sweater and would appreciate free sweater patterns? Forward this link to them so they can download their own free copy of How to Crochet Sweaters: 5 Free Crochet Sweater Patterns from Crochet Me.

Crochet for Kids with Crochet Me: 5 Free Crochet Patterns for Kids

Toni Rexroat — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 15:19:22 GMT

Kids crocheted projects are small and quickly finished; they are an ideal stash-busting project, using only a few balls of yarn, and the diminutive recipients are just old enough to appreciate the thought that goes into a handmade gift. Toddler garments are also the perfect canvas on which to try a new technique such as embroidery on a crocheted fabric or a new stitch pattern.

In this eBook, you will find a collection of 5 free kids patterns, from a darling cardigan to a playful jumper. Use these free patterns to whip up an easy project that is sure to bring a smile to the child in your life.

The Sweetpea Cardigan by Candi Jensen is a sweet cardigan, embellished with embroidered ribbon flowers and a lace trim. The body of this easy cardigan is worked in single crochet, making it a great sweater project for a beginning crocheter. The little princess and the tomboy will both be enchanted by this sweater.

The Stella Cardigan by Robyn Chachula is a great transitional garment, moving from spring to fall with ease. Frog closures add a fun Asian flair and add a pop of color to this unique toddler jacket. Visual crocheters will also find multiple stitch diagrams. This little cardigan is perfect for the girl who is one part mischief and one part sugar and spice.

The Toddler Poncho by Candi Jensen is worked in the round in a soft, warm washable wool. This easy project can be completed in a weekend and makes a fun accessory for tiaras and gowns as well as jeans and dresses. Two large pom-poms accent the easy shell and bobble pattern.

The Seashell and Posies Dress by Elissa Sugishita is worked in a lacy shell pattern from the bottom up. Little girls will adore this toddler dress, which boasts a delicate flower trim at the waist; and you will love the minimal seaming-just two small shoulder seams.

Bring a touch of enchantment into a child's life with Frog Charming by Toni Rexroat. I was inspired by the story of the frog prince who fetched the princess's favorite ball after it was lost down a well. This fun crocheted toy is perfect for a little boy or girl, a great project for any crocheter who loves amigurumi.

I hope you enjoy the free kids crochet patterns in this eBook and share the joy of crochet with the kids in your life.

Best wishes,

Friendship Scarf

Toni Rexroat — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 15:28:06 GMT

Designers: Marcy Smith, Sharon Zientara, and Sarah Read

Ripple Strip

Finished Size: about 3" by 50".

Yarn: Red Heart Eco-Ways (70% acrylic, 30% recycled polyester; 186 yd [170 m]/4 oz [113 g]): 3533 misty violet, 1 skein. Yarn distributed by Coats & Clark.

Hook Size: I/9 (5.5mm).

Gauge: is not critical for this pattern.

Wattle Strip

Finished Size: about 3" by 50".

Yarn: Lion Brand Wool-Ease worsted (80% acrylic, 20% wool; 197 yd [180 m]/3 oz [85 g]): #151 grey heather, 1 skein.

Hook Size: G/6 (4 mm).

Gauge: is not critical for this pattern.

Shell Strip

Finished Size: about 3" by 50".

Yarn: Bernat Satin (100% acrylic; 200 yd [182 m]/3½ oz [100 g]): #04222 fern, 1 skein.

Hook Size: H/8 (5 mm).

Gauge: is not critical for this pattern.

Crocheted Spring Chickie, As Seen on Knitting Daily TV Episode 705

Toni Rexroat — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 20:52:53 GMT

Celebrity crafter Deborah Norville is back and joins Eunny with some cute crocheted stuffies. She demonstrates how to crochet the Spring Chickie, a seriously sweet project that makes a great handmade gift. Download your free pattern for the Spring Chickie.
Sponsored by Premier Yarns.

Get the entire Series 700 of Knitting Daily TV on a 4-Disc DVD Collection! Click here to purchase DVDs of this season or previous seasons of Knitting Daily TV.

ABOUT THE SHOW: Knitting Daily TV is an exciting needle crafts how-to program on public television covering everything from knitting and crochet to stitching, felting, and spinning. The show guides viewers in learning to make fun yet smart one-of-a-kind designs using the latest products in yarn and fiber. Download free patterns, meet trendsetting knit and crochet designers, and improve or learn new skills and techniques.

Click here to find the PBS station nearest you airing the program. (You can enter your zip code or click "view all schedules/get listings" to see all the cities that air the show and when.)

Knitting Daily TV is airing on PBS stations nationwide and new markets are being added to the schedule all the time. Each individual public television station chooses when and if to air the program. If it is not airing in your local market, please call, write, or email and let them that know you are a viewer of the station and would like to see Knitting Daily TV. You can help bring Knitting Daily TV to your local PBS Station. Thank you!

Keona Seamless Scarf to Knit or Crochet, As Seen on Knitting Daily TV Episode 712

Toni Rexroat — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 20:39:43 GMT

Kristin Omdahl joins Shay on set to demonstrate a favorite seamless project - the scarf. This one is unique because it can be knit or crocheted, and also worn multiple ways! Wear this as a scarf, neck band, headband, or even a belt. Download your free pattern for Kristin's Keona seamless scarf.

Sponsored by WEBs, America's Yarn Store.

Get the entire Series 700 of Knitting Daily TV on a 4-Disc DVD Collection! Click here to purchase DVDs of this season or previous seasons of Knitting Daily TV.

Click here to find the PBS station nearest you airing the program. (You can enter your zip code or click "view all schedules/get listings" to see all the cities that air the show and when.)

Learn How to Crochet Flowers with 5 Free Crochet Flower Patterns from Crochet Me

Toni Rexroat — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 20:09:55 GMT

Crochet flowers inspire creativity. You can use them to personalize hats, bags, sweaters, and more. They are quick and easy to whip up and a resourceful use of those luscious yarn scraps you just can't bear to toss. I've been creating a bouquet's worth of these vibrant, blossoming embellishments and they're just waiting to be attached to finished pieces.

Here we give you five patterns with instructions for creating eight flowers plus a basic single crochet hat in four sizes. Each pattern is perfect for beginner crocheters or experienced crocheters looking for a quick project. You can work the patterns as they are given or mix and match the flowers, embellishing your choice of projects, to create your own unique masterpieces.

The Colorful Crochet Flowers by Mags Kandis are a great way to use up those little bits of left over luxury yarns. The possibilities are endless: use them for bookmarks, key fobs, or to embellish a hat. Play with your favorite color combinations for your own unique bouquet.

The Corsage in Bloom by Christina Potter combines three thread crochet flowers to create wearable embellishments. She provides instruction for combining these three flower patterns to make either a choker or brooch.

The Primary Hat by Toni Rexroat and Susan Hazel Rich provides instructions for a basic single crochet hat in sizes from baby's to men's. The eye-catching peony flower is created using four individual crocheted circles. You can vary the size of these circles to modify the flower's size.

The Flower-Power Posy by Heather Lodinsky is a simple, two-row flower perfect for embellishment. Or play with joining rows of posies to create a scarf or table runner. You can finish a handful of flowers in under an hour. This small embellishment is the perfect project to learn how to crochet flowers.

Three colors combine to create the Starburst Flower by Heather Lodinsky. This striking flower is a perfect project for leftover bits of yarn. You can also work this easy flower in one color. Then let your imagination decide what to embellish, from hats and scarves to garments and bags.

So gather up your leftover yarn and use it to embellish your latest pieces. We hope you enjoy using these free crochet flower patterns to embellish your projects. Share pictures of your projects in the member gallery at CrochetMe.com.

Best wishes,

P.S. Do you have friends who love crocheted flowers and would appreciate free quick and easy flower patterns? Forward this newsletter to them so they can download their own free copy of Learn How to Crochet Flowers with 5 Free Flower Patterns from Crochet Me.

Chain Reaction Afghan Project

Toni Rexroat — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 13:55:01 GMT

It’s more than just an afghan—it’s a chain reaction!

The Chain Reaction Afghan was a yearlong print and online project that brought together the work of professional and emerging designers in a single afghan. The completed afghan will be auctioned off with proceeds going to a select charity.

In this collaborative project, we created an afghan with twenty unique squares. We asked some of your favorite designers to create half of the squares. We provided pictures and patterns for those ten in the Summer 2010 and Fall 2010 issues of Interweave Crochet. The rest of the afghan was designed by you! That’s right. Readers uploaded their original designs for a 12-inch square to the gallery. Ten reader-designed squares were selected for publication for the Winter 2010 and Spring 2011 issues of Interweave Crochet.

Now, those twenty square designs have been collected together into this one eBook! Plus, you will get the instructions for creating the final afghan.

Learn to Crochet: Instruction on How to Crochet and 5 Free Crochet Patterns for Beginners

Toni Rexroat — Thu, 26 May 2011 21:23:56 GMT

A solid understanding of the basics of crochet is the building block of learning how to crochet. Whether you have been crocheting for twenty years or twenty minutes, it is this foundation of basic crochet stitches and tips that allows you to learn new techniques and tackle your favorite patterns.

Here we give you instructions and illustrations for creating the basic crochet stitches, including the chain, slip stitch, single crochet, and more. For beginning crocheters, we have also included a comprehensive abbreviations list and tips on checking your gauge and substituting yarn.

You will also find information on efficiently changing colors or starting a new yarn at the beginning of a row or in the middle of a round. And when you have finished your project, check out our tips and illustrations on the best methods of weaving in loose ends for a smooth, finished fabric.

Prompted by a Crochet Me forum conversation, the 24K Hook Catcher by Marcy Smith was created to keep track of your hook when traveling. This beaded pattern includes instructions for 2 beaded lanyards and directions for bonus stitch markers.

For a fun, year-round project, try Mags Kandis' Gilded Mesh Scarf. Constructed entirely with treble crochet and chain stitches, this scarf adds a scalloped edge of beads to take its opulence one step further.

Once you are ready to begin crocheting, you can join Kim Werker as she discusses color choice and shares the Listening to Color Mitts pattern. This quick and simple pattern will allow you to practice changing colors as you use stitches of differing heights to create the flared shaping.

The Tapestry Crochet Bag by Pam Allen will introduce you to tapestry crochet and crocheting in the round. This little shoulder bag is worked as a tube, eliminating the need for seaming. A perfect beginner crochet project, this easy accessory would also make a terrific gift.

The Wool Bam Boo Scarf by Judith L. Swartz will introduce you to a decrease stitches, and the beautiful sea stitch pattern is easy to learn and memorize. This ruffled scarf is worked in two sections that are crocheted together before blocking.

This collection of crochet lessons and beginner patterns will help you learn to crochet and provide you with a foundation that will aid you as you continue to increase your crochet expertise. And don't forget to check out the links to great technique videos on Crochet Me.

Crochet A Hug

Sharon Zientara — Tue, 17 May 2011 19:33:14 GMT

Crocheted in a wattle stitch pattern, this craftivism shawl project is easy to modify into a scarf or an afghan, making a great handmade gift for anyone. The super bulky yarn works up quickly, and can be done in endless color combinations.

Designer Marcy Smith
Finished Size 19" by 66".
Yarn Caron Simply Soft Chunky (100% acrylic; 160 yd [146.5 m]/5 oz [141.5 g]; ): wine country 0007 (CC1), plum perfect 0005 (CC2), lavender blue 0002 (CC3), 3 skeins each.
Hook Size L/11 (8 mm). Adjust hook size if necessary to obtain correct gauge.
Gauge 9 sts and 8 rows = 4" in wattle st patt.