Stunning Shawl: Week 2

Hi everyone! Welcome to "Week 2" of our "Crochet Along!" This is the week, we actually crochet. That is exciting, all by itself!

Our goal for this week, is going to be to work rows 1-9. That means we're starting our Stunning Shawl. And working a second "section." Not too bad. And this will allow us all to ease into our projects. I know school has started for most kids/people. This should be an achievable goal for the week.



I got a few questions this week. All about yarn. Individually, I answered the questions. But I thought I'd post something about it here. I was asked if you could use the "One Pounder," from Lion Brand. As in the "Baby Yarn." Yes, you can. It will make your shawl a little more "delicate." Probably a little smaller, and lighter as well. You might also have to go down a size in hook. Just to make your work look neat.

And I've gotten a few comments about Red Heart's large skeins of "Super Sport." That would also be a great way to go. Then you wouldn't have to hide extra threads, from connecting the 2 skeins of yarn.

Remember, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns feel free to contact my Mom or I. You can also e-mail us at CraftyMomLoves (at) aol (dot) com. Or SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com. You can also send us pictures, of your shawls. That's always fun to see! Have a wonderful week. And we'll see you next Sunday!!! ♥

Stunning Shawl: Week 1

Welcome Back! It's "Week 1" of our little "Crochet Along." My Mom and I are impressed by all the interest!!! Looks like everyone likes the Stunning Shawl. As of this morning, we have 59 people signed up. Yay!!!

This week, we're starting off easy. You just need to print out this pattern. And buy your supplies. You'll need a size H (5.5mm) hook. And 2 skeins of your favorite yarn. About 14 oz.



I went with a new yarn. I have no clue what it's called. I know it's by Red Heart. But the wrappers were all taken off of the yarn. It's not the "regular" Red Heart "Super Sport." Something new, that Wal-Mart had. And it's super soft! I bought 2 skeins of plum.

Next week, we start our crocheting. :) Just wanted to start off easy. If you have any questions, or still want to sign up, leave my Mom or I a comment. And we can't wait to see you next week! ♥

Crochet Along: Stunning Shawl

Do you remember when I told you about a new "Crochet Along?" Well, my Mom and I have been debating a pattern, for about a month now. I know! But there are so many choices. We thought about something with thread. Because she's awesome at it! Me, not so much!

Then we thought about an amigurumi project. You know, because I've now got her addicted to the stuff! Or maybe something for Fall. Maybe something to decorate with. Something for our homes.

But there was this one pattern, that we just kept going back to. One that was calling us. One that we couldn't resist. That would be, Red Heart's Stunning Shawl!



Do you love it? Do you want to be a part of our little "Crochet Along?" Well, you just have to leave my Mom or I a comment. Or an e-mail. My Mom's e-mail address is CraftyMomLoves (at) aol (dot) com. And mine is SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com.

That's it! From the time we start crocheting, to the end of the project, should be 6 weeks. Every week, we'll post a "goal." You are welcome to work past it. And it's OK, if you don't work quite as fast as our "goal."

This is just going to be a fun little group, all working on the same project. A cute shawl, that should come in handy this Fall. If you're like us, you're still battle the high 90s, and random triple digits. But soon enough, it will be cool. The perfect weather for this shawl.

We hope to see you next Sunday! Don't forget, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, don't hesitate to contact us. Now, or when we start our projects. Have a wonderful week! ♥

Wise Owl Tote Bag: Week 5

And it's our final week! :) Are your bags looking cute? Why am I asking? So many of you, have sent me the most adorable pictures! And I'm inspired to make a few more bags. Because I want to try your color combinations. Please keep sending me your pictures! :)

This week, Cari reminded me that she starts school in 8 days!!! I guess it's a good thing, that we're almost done with our Wise Owl Tote Bags! This week, all we have to work on, is the heart. The one that goes in the middle. And well, if you need to catch up, this is the week to do it!



I also received lots of e-mails, about how I've sewn on the various pieces. Well, with the eyes, I sewed the buttons on the "white part." Then attached that part of the eye, to the larger piece. That larger piece, is the part that I actually attached to the bag itself. If you try to sew from the largest to the smallest, it gets a bit "bulky." And the inside of your bag, can look a bit messy.

Now for the beak, don't over stuff it. That will make it too "bulky" for this project. I then sewed the end shut. Making it slightly flat. When it's sewn together, it's easier to attach to the body.

Once I attached the beak to the body, I didn't like how it "bobbled" around. So I tacked the entire beak down, from the inside of the bag. I did this, in a small triangle. Smaller than the size of the beak, so the stitches stay "hidden."

I hope that everyone has enjoyed this "Crochet Along!" I'm already planning our next one. With my Mom!!! And if you have any questions, please send me an e-mail at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com. Or leave Cari or I a comment.

I hope you enjoy your Wise Owl Tote Bag! I know I've enjoyed making mine. And know, a very special little girl, is going to LOVE my finished bag too! ♥

Wise Owl Tote Bag: Week 4

I almost forget that it was Sunday. I know! We're back from our vacation. But my brain still hasn't caught up. How are your bags coming along? Are they starting to look like owls?

I've gotten tons of fun e-mails this week. With pictures of your bags. Wow! They look AMAZING!!! If you want to send me yours, e-mail me at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com.

This week, is going to be all about the little parts. The things I generally lose, if I don't attach them immediately! Please tell me, I'm not alone! This week, our goal is to make the inner eyes, outer eyes, and the beak. Oh, and attach everything! You know, so we don't lose them. :)



Before we go much further, don't forget this week, we'll be needing 2-12mm buttons for the eyes. I found some cute and inexpensive ones at Wal-Mart. They come in packs of 6 for $2. A wonderful buy if you ask me! Oh, and we'll also be needing a sewing needle. I like to use "tapestry needles," for this kind of work. But use whatever you feel comfortable with.

Lastly, don't forget to leave long tails, at the end of these pieces. It makes it A LOT easier to sew them in place. And then to hide the ends later. Now let's have a wonderful week crocheting! And if you need some help don't hesitate to contact Cari or I. Now let's give our owls a little personality! ♥

Wise Owl Tote Bag: Week 3

Happy Sunday! How is everyone doing? Are your bags coming along nicely? If you're like me, you get a little "addicted" to a project, and you don't want to put it down. Right? I know! Even in paradise, I'm having a problem with just leaving my Wise Owl Tote Bag undone. :)

Our goal this week, is to work the strap and 2 wings. And hopefully attach them to our finished bag. If you're like Cari, you had a very busy week. And she told me, she's going to use today, to "catch up." Then use this week, to make the strap and wings. See it's OK if you work at a slightly different pace.




Don't forget, if you have any problems, questions, or concerns don't hesitate to contact us. That's what we're here for! :) Leave Cari or I a comment. Or send me an e-mail at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com. See you next Sunday! ♥

Wise Owl Tote Bag: Week 2

Let the crocheting begin!!! We're finally going to start our bags this week. I know! Can I be completely honest with you? I've been a little busy. And this morning, I woke up in a cold sweat. You see, we're traveling. And I thought I left my yarn at home...

Yes, I rushed out of bed, and searched my bag. Yes!!! I remembered my supplies. I even got to talk to Miss Cari this morning. Who will be spending the day with her Dad. In the park. And she is so excited to start her Wide Owl Tote Bag! So am I. :)




This week's goal is going to be, working Rows 1-20 of the bag. At the end of this week, we'll all have an idea, of how large our bags are going to be. Remember, if you have any questions, please leave Cari or I a comment. Or send me an e-mail at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com.

Have a great week crocheting! And I can't wait until next week! We're going on vacation this week, so I might actually work ahead. :) It's going to be a long flight. ♥

Wise Owl Tote Bag: Week 1

Welcome Back Crocheters!!! Cari and I are so excited to get this "Crochet Along" started. I've gotten tons and tons of e-mails. So I am happy to say, this is already a HUGE success!!! And if you still want to join, we'd LOVE to have you! Just leave Cari or I a comment. Or send me an e-mail at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com.



This week is going to be fairly easy. You need to print out this pattern, and buy the supplies. That's it! Easy as can be. :) That's how I like to start projects.

For me, the most difficult thing about starting a projecting, is buying he supplies. I know! You will need 1 skein of yarn for the body of the owl. I'm thinking that dusty purple color that Red Heart makes. And a decent amount, less than a skein, of a different color for the inner eyes and heart. I'll probably go with Aran. Funny how that's the only name I remember. But recently, I've been working on lots of dolls. :)

You will also need a small amount of another color for the outer eyes. I'm going with a dusty green. And a small amount of orange for the beak. For these 2 colors, I'd say you could use scraps. At least that's what I'm going to do. I have A LOT of scraps that need to be used up!

Come back next Sunday, and we'll actually get started on our bags. But I figured with all that we have going on during Summer, some of us might need the week to prepare. Have a wonderful week! ♥

Crochet Along: Wise Owl Tote Bag

Cari and I had this idea. You see, Cari is getting ready to start 8th grade this year. And wanted to make something fun for school. I know! It's the beginning of July. Still Summer in my book. But this should be fun.

Right now, Miss Cari is in Mexico. Studying her Folklorico dancing. Don't let that get between a girl, her goal, and some crochet fun! We're going to start our little "Crochet Along." Next Sunday. And it should be a blast! So what are we making? Redheart's Wise Owl Tote Bag.



We're going to give plenty of time to complete this project. Being that it's Summer. Many of us have planned trips. And well, we just want to work at a fairly relaxing pace.

If you are interested, please leave Cari or I a comment. Or e-mail me at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com. Remember, this is meant to be something fun and enjoyable. And hopefully, at the end of the "Crochet Along," we'll have something fun to be proud of! Hope to see you Sunday! ♥

Crochet Along: Week 5

This week is exciting! We're beginning Week 5, of our Crochet Along. And at the end of this week, we'll be done with the basic pattern. The only thing left, will be the edging!

Our goal for this week is, rows 67-87. The same "Bunny Block," as Week 3. This is really exciting! Now I'm anxious, to finish up my blankets. :)



I have to confess, I'm a little behind this week. Work has been extra crazy. So today, I'll be taking a lot of time to crochet. :) My goal for the day, is rows 50-67. See, I told you, I fell behind. But I'm sure, that this week, will be much better! How are your blankets going? ♥

Little Owl Crochet Along

It's no secret, that I LOVE to crochet! No, it's not. I ALWAYS have a ball of yarn, and a crochet hook, in my purse or briefcase. ALWAYS!!! You should also note, I'm a BIG fan of Ana Paula Rimoli. Her crochet patterns, and toys, are so cute! If you need some convincing, check out Ana's Flickr page. :)

If you've never seen Ana's work, you should visit her blog. And her Etsy Shop. In fact, 4 or 5 years ago, I made my first purchase from Ana. A handful of patterns. Later, I bought her books. Bought magazines, with her patterns in them. And then, this guy, surprised me, with all of her Etsy patterns!

Right now, Ana is hosting a Crochet Along. With her cute "Little Owl" pattern. You can find the pattern on her blog. And you should connect with Ana, on her Facebook page.



One thing about Ana, she is so incredibly kind! And so helpful. In fact, one of the first patterns that I bought, had a mistake in it. She actually, hunted out, everyone who bought that pattern, and sent them a personal e-mail. With an apology, the correct pattern, and a "bonus" pattern. I've had many chats with her, via e-mail. And Ana is always so helpful! She LOVES for people, to send her pictures, of the items they've made. From her patterns. And is ALWAYS so encouraging!

In fact, every single time, that I've purchased something from Ana, she has been a doll! And often posts free patterns, on her blog. For all of you crocheters out there, please support Ana! And if you can't buy a pattern at this time, join her Crochet Along. ♥

Crochet Along: Week 4

Happy Sunday! I think this Crochet Along, is a success! I've had so many positive e-mails this week. Which makes me smile! :) That's the whole reason, that Manders and I wanted to do this. To reach out to fellow crocheters. And create something beautiful, in the process.

This week, we're working on our third, "Bunny Block." Rows 46-66. Pretty much, it's exactly what we did, during Week 2. I'm really excited, to see how big our blankets are going to get. I can tell, this is going to be a good week!



This week, I fell a little behind. I was performing, early in the week. And late in the week, I was doing some last minute things, for my friend's Baby Shower. But I managed to get to row 45. I'm really excited, to have 2 "Bunny Blocks" done. But now, I kinda of wonder, how would the blanket look, if every other bunny, faced the opposite direction? Maybe I'll try that, on the next one! For now, I'm going to tackle rows 46-66! Have a GREAT week! ♥

Crochet Along: Week 3

Welcome Back Crochet Along friends! How are your blankets going? I'm moving along well. Still experimenting a little. With my smaller blanket. But all is well. This week's goal, is rows 25-45. That's one more "Bunny Block!" :) This set of bunnies, will be running in the opposite direction.



Don't worry if you didn't make it to row 24. Remember, we're not on a time crunch. We're just working on this, together. This is supposed to be something fun. Not stressful! Just keep that in mind. :)

I got a few e-mails this week. All having to do with the same "issue." The gauge, is just a little off. The chains are a little loose. And the double crochets, are too tight. So when you're looking at your work, it looks a little "messy."

I've worked on other filet blankets before. And I've worked on filet crochet...with thread. Your work, just doesn't look "neat." That is, your chains look too loose. And your double crochets, tootight. The double crochets "pull" at the chains. And the chains just look really loose. It has to do with the tension of your work. You just need to work on, making all your stitches similar, in tension. Don't stress. With yarn, especially a thicker yarn, it'd not as noticeable.

And remember, if you have a question, or concern, please leave Manders or I, a comment. Or send us an e-mail. That's what we're here for! At the end of this week, we're pretty much, halfway done with our blankets! Now that is exciting!!! ♥

Crochet Along: Some Tips

On Sunday, I had mentioned that I was starting a second blanket. I started it. Stopped, and looked. I was using 4 ply yarn, and a size H hook. But it seemed small. I found myself at a stop. I wanted a slightly larger blanket. One that I could cuddle up under. So I took it apart, and added another bunny block across. This means that you must start with a chain 185. The adjustment will give 5 blocks across. And I'm thinking my finished blanket is going to be 5X6.

Manders also mentioned that she was making a baby blanket. And she didn't like the original size of the pattern. She called me. And I gave her these new adjustments. She's using baby weight yarn, and a size G hook. And according to Manders, this makes for a blanket, that is "crib" size.



But that also got time thinking. I wanted to make a baby blanket. One to add to a growing collection. That I'm donating, to the NICU, where I work. I knew that the original was slightly, too large. Because those babies are itty bitty!

So I started playing with the pattern. I thought. 2 blocks, with more double crochets in between. Making a larger border. But I didn't like it. So I decided to go with, 3 blocks across. You start with a chain 113. Then continue with the pattern. I haven't decided yet, if I'm going to make it 3X3, or 3X4. We'll just have to wait and see. In case you were wondering, I'm using Baby Bernat Sport Yarn, in white. And a G hook.

I told you, that we are here to help out! I just wanted to share a few adjustments, in case you were interested. A few of you were. Because I received, about 10 e-mails, on Monday. I hope this helps. Personally, I think that the odd number of bunnies, is more pleasing to the eye. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask. Hopefully, this helps with your goal this week. See you Sunday! ♥

Crochet Along: Week 2

Welcome Back! It's Week 2 of our Crochet Along. And this week, we begin our projects. That means, we're crocheting! But first, how did your shopping go? Did you find everything you need? Were you like me? Sitting in the middle of the yarn aisle, trying to decide, which yarn you wanted. That was really me!

For Week 2, our goal is to begin our blankets. And work to row 24. That will complete the first block. Or what we're going to refer to as, a "Bunny Block." Which means, by Saturday, we should, have some cute bunnies to admire!



For me, I have to admit something. I started crocheting my blanket already! I started last week. Because I didn't have another project to work on. And we were on the road. I'm making a baby blanket, in a soft yellow color. Last Monday, I almost finished the first "Bunny Block." I know!

But don't fear. I'm starting a second one. In a pretty yellow, 4 ply yarn. I have no clue what the color is! Because the label, is not on, this skein of yarn. But it's more of a muted color. I was tempted to buy Red Heart's Bright Yellow. It's so pretty! But I'm making this for our living room. And the more muted color, goes better with our decor.

I know that Manders started her blanket as well. But only got 3 or 4 rows done. She was trying to work ahead. Just a bit. Because she is in the middle, of planning 2 birthday parties. And didn't want to fall behind. I told you, the Crochet Along, is just about an outline. More of a support system.

This week should be fun. And interesting. I want to get both of my blankets, to row 24. By Saturday! I'm positive that I can have it done. I'm really interested in seeing, what the size difference is going to be. Should be interesting.

Don't forget, if you have any problems or questions, please contact us. Or leave a comment. Maybe someone else is struggling too. We're a supportive group. Ready to help, wherever we can! Happy Crocheting! ♥

Crochet Along: Week 1

Welcome to Week 1 of our Crochet Along! Manders and I, are super excited about this! We received just under 30 e-mails. Definitely made us smile! And we're looking forward to the next 6 weeks, of crochet time! If you are still interested, you can still contact us. Leave us a comment, on either of our blogs, or e-mails. :)

Week 1 is super easy! And hopefully a lot of fun! All you have to do is, print off the pattern. And do a little shopping. My favorite part! You are going to need 35 oz of 4 ply yarn. And a size H crochet hook.

Right now, I'm sort of having a mini issue. Do I make this for Easter? And use the 4 ply yarn. Or do I make this for a baby? Using "baby weight" yarn? And the colors. Oh the colors! Can you tell what I spend most of my projects doing? Trying to make decisions about yarn. I'm leaning towards a bright yellow. In a "Baby Yarn." But it will all depend on, what I can find at the stores.



I was thinking about this step. And I have a little note for you. I make a similar blanket. All the time! For baby girls. The filet pattern is of hearts. And I use baby weight yarn. With a size G hook. If you are considering this route, I would buy a large ball of yarn. I usually use Lion Brand Baby, or Bernat Baby Sport. One large skein, is more than enough!

What are your ideas? I think a bright yellow, 4 ply yarn, would also be nice. Something bright and fun. Potentially for a toddler. Or a more muted color, for an Easter throw. I've also seen a pretty lavender color, that I'm sorta in love with! Oh the decisions. ♥

Crochet Along: Filet Crochet Bunny Blanket

Hi there! I've got some exciting news for you! Manders and I, decided to host another Crochet Along. We had wanted to do one, last summer. But time just got away from us. Then we planned one in the fall. But I don't know why, we never actually hosted it. We even had a pattern picked out!

But never fear, we've picked out something fun! After much thought, and hunting on just about every crochet website, we picked Red Heart's Filet Crochet Bunny Blanket.The main reason we picked this pattern, is it's a "user friendly" pattern. Meaning that a new crocheter can follow it. But it's interesting enough, that a more advanced crocheter, will also enjoy it!



Another thing, that grabbed my attention is, this blanket can be used for a variety of reasons. Wouldn't this look amazing, as a baby gift? It's gender neutral. Perfect for your next Baby Shower! And if you are anything like me, you have quite a few coming up!

But I can also see this same blanket, as a nice throw for Easter. You know how the weather is right now. Warm one minute, cold the next. So this would be a nice addition, to your Family Room. Something to cover you, while you watch your favorite show.

If I've convinced you, please sign up! Either leave me a comment on this post, or go visit Manders. :) You can also e-mail me at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com. Or send Manders an e-mail at MandersinLove (at) yahoo (dot) com.

We'd LOVE to hear from you! We'd also like a little feedback. Do you like our pattern selections? Would you like us to host a Crochet Along, with a certain pattern? Or at a certain time? We'd love to hear your thoughts!

And don't feel like we're forcing you along. We are hosting this Crochet Along, just to encourage our fellow crocheters. I know, from personal experience, sometimes I just get bored with a project. Or frustrated. This Crochet Along, is designed with the idea, that we are here to encourage and help each other out.

Manders and I sat down the other night, and worked out our entire plan. Every Sunday, we will post our goal for the week. In that post, feel free to comment. If you are struggling with something, or have some information you want to share, we'd love to hear about it.

And with our plan, we should be done the first week in April. Of course, you could also work, ahead of our pace. I hope that a few of you, are interested. Because Crochet Alongs, are a lot of fun to be a part of! I hope to hear from you soon! ♥

Week Three

Welcome to Week Three of the Crochet Along! This week is all about working on the handle. You should have the main basket piece (up to row 25) done. If you haven't, that's OK. Just work on as much as you can. If you need any help, don't hesitate to ask Manders or me. We'd love to help! Because we really want you to succeed at this cutie!



I'm having a lot of fun with this project. I just need to find some time to crochet. Earlier in the week. I keep putting off my crocheting time until Sundays. Particularly, Sunday nights. It's not that bad. But then I feel a little bit of stress. You know, trying to finish before my own deadline. I just need to make a "crochet date" with myself. Maybe Wednesday nights. How is everyone else doing? ♥

Week Two

It's Week 2 of our Crochet Along! It's time to begin the 2nd part of the basket. By the end of this week, we should have the main basket piece finished. Our goal this week, is to work Rounds 11-25.



And if you are like me, you were running a little behind, this past week. I didn't buy my yarn until late in the week. And I forgot to print out the pattern. So I only worked a row or two. But yesterday evening, I got working. And I caught up! This week, I'm going to try and be more product. Earlier in the week. :) ♥

Let's Begin!

Are you guys ready? Today we start our "Crochet Along." I just can't wait to start my bunny! You can still join in. Leave me or Manders a comment. Or send us an e-mail. My e-mail address is SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com. And Manders' is MandersinLove (at) yahoo (dot) com. We've gotten about 25 total. A fun group!

If you want to get a look at our schedule, here it is. I just wanted to somewhat, "equally" distribute the crocheting time. You of course, can work ahead, or behind us. We just wanted to set up a little schedule.

Week 1 (March 14-20): Buy supplies, print pattern, and work to Round 10.
Week 2 (March 21-27); Work Rounds 11-25.
Week 3 (March 28-April 3) : Work the handle.
Week 4 (April 4-10): Work ear #1.
Week 5 (April 11-17): Work ear #2.
Week 6 (April 18-24): Put your bunny basket together and enjoy!



This week is all about getting started. Don't hesitate to send us an e-mail, or leave us a comment. We'd enjoy it a lot! This should be a fun project for everyone. Now let's have a little bit of crochet fun! Oh, I might need to go buy some yarn too! ♥