I'm hooked...

A little over a month ago I strong armed my mother into teaching me how to crochet.  I had some basics down thanks to the awesome people who take the time to make YouTube videos...but I needed that hands on experience and wanted a real live person to pester with questions while I was figuring it all out.  After a week of straight crocheting, I think I have it down enough to share some of the things I've made.

I'm absolutely crazy over crocheted scarves and cowls...so that's pretty much what I've been making.  And I'm only keeping one of these for myself, the others will be Christmas gifts. 

Speaking of Christmas, I decided last month to try and MAKE many of the Christmas gifts for friends and family this year.  Armed with inspiration from Pinterest, I'm nearly complete!  Handmade gifts are truly the best gifts and when you're currently living on one income it becomes a necessity.  But more on that later!

Here is the first cowl I crocheted.  I adapted a few patterns I found on Pinterest.  I used Bernat Softee Chunky Ombre Yarn in Shadow.  The balls were small so I needed 3.

The original pattern did not have any holes...I added some for interest!  And this isn't the greatest pic.  It's hard to photograph yourself in the bathroom mirror.  How those chicks on Facebook do it, I'll never know.

 So, after finishing this baby up I was basically running back to the craft store for more chunky yarn and a bigger hook.  I really wanted a HUGE cowl.  One that could be a hood, kinda like the one the Crimson Owl came up with.


The result is a massive cowl that is heavy but boy is it WARM!  It's going to be hard for me to give this one up.  I used Lion Brand Hometown USA Yarn in Aspen Tweed and a size P hook.  It took about 4 skeins but worked up quickly.  I'm a now a chunky yarn fan!



As a cowl.  I added an expansion row about 2/3 of the way down so one end would be larger to cover more of the chest.

Pull it up over your head and you have a super warm hood!

Now onto scarves.  I found a really pretty and feminine Potato Chip scarf pattern on the Lion Brand website.  You have to become a member to access to their patterns (many are free), but that just takes a second and then you are ready to start.  This was super easy and super quick to make.

I used Lion Brand's Amazing Yarn in Constellation for this scarf.  The yarn is pretty amazing, I love how the color changes in a subtle way.  It says size 4 on the ball but this yarn is pretty delicate and light weight.

I also had to add a little lace edging to give it more interest.  I found inspiration for the edge here.

Crocheting is something I really enjoy and after a long day of entertaining a pre-toddler, I kick back and unwind by working up a few rows.  If I can crochet, anyone can!  You just have to practice, find good patterns, and pester your Mother!!

Thanks Ma!