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Interview with Anna from The Knotty Boss
I am very excited to introduce you to Anna from The Knotty Boss today. Anna is a very talented maker that designs and crochets the cutest amigurumi cacti. And her talent doesn’t stop there! Anna is also a talented graphic designer who makes some seriously awesome templates for crafters to take their projects to the next level. If you haven’t already seen her Instagram account, you need to check it out. Read below to learn more about Anna and The Knotty Boss.
Tell me a little bit about yourself.
My name is Anna. I’m the maker behind @theknottyboss. I currently reside in the Philadelphia area, although I’m originally from Ukraine. As much as I would love for The Knotty Boss to be my main bread-n-butter, it’s currently a part time gig. Professionally, I’m a graphic designer, and have been doing design [as my full time job] for the past 14 years.How long have you been crocheting?
I’ve been crocheting for a little over 2 years
Are there any other crafts that you enjoy doing?
Yes, I’m a craft hoarder. I love knitting, sewing, painting, paper crafts… the list goes on. Unfortunately, with work and crochet taking up most of my time, it doesn’t leave room for any other crafts at the moment
How did you learn to crochet?
From good old YouTube
How did you get started making cacti?
I’m a habitual plant murderer, so I wanted to make a plant for my desk that wouldn’t die after a month. I searched for ideas on pinterest until i stumbled onto a world of amigurumi cacti. That’s what made me want to learn crochet. I had to make a cactus!!!
What is your favourite project that you have designed to date?
That’s a hard one. It’s like picking your favorite child [not that I know what that’s like, since I’m not a mom] I think my Frida and Rosie inspired cacti are my favorite. They were so fun to design, and people seem to like them.
Frida inspired Cactus by The Knotty Boss When did you start pursuing a business as a maker and why?
I think it was mainly peer-pressure, haha. Whenever people found out I made stuff, next question was always “do you have an Etsy store?” After a few months of crocheting I decided to open one. Although, until this year I only used Etsy for custom listings, so my store was empty.
Rosie inspired cactus by The Knotty Boss What are your aspirations for your business?
I ask myself this question from time to time, but I seriously haven’t come up with a good answer yet. I obviously want to be successful, but doing what, I’m still not 100% sure of. Lately, design has been creeping into my crocheting world, and I’ve been working with different makers on their branding and packaging, which I LOVE TO DO! I would love to do more of that, in addition to crocheting.
Some of Anna’s beautiful tags How do you organize yourself and stick to your goals?
The only thing that I do to keep myself organized is make to-do lists. Other than that, I’m pretty all over the place. I know this might be shocking to hear, but I don’t really set any crazy goals for myself [when it comes to The Knotty Boss] I keep things very organic, and do what I feel like and when [unless i promise something specific to someone] Is that bad?
What are your biggest struggles as a maker?
Trying to achieve perfection, procrastination, inability to work on one thing at a time. Should I continue? haha.
Where does your inspiration come from?
From anywhere and everywhere. Friends and other makers, social media and also my customers. A lot of my cacti ideas came from customers with specific requests. For example, my first Frida cactus was a custom order.
What tips would you give to someone wanting to start out with a maker business?
I would be the worst person to give any business advice. However, as a designer, I can give some design advice… It’s important to know the difference between a professional logo and one designed with free apps with pre-made graphics. Good logos aren’t cheap, and cheap logos aren’t good [most of the time] Also, stay consistent with your branding fonts and colors.What’s your favourite yarn/fibre to work with?
I love cotton yarns, but I also haven’t worked with that much yarn variety yet. I’m still learning and finding new fibers to work with.Who inspires you? Who are your favourite makers?
There are so many makers that inspire me, I wouldn’t know where to start, plus I don’t want to leave anyone out.If time and money were not an issue, what would your dream project be?
I would love to make a huge cactus with one of those giant yarns [the ones you can just hand crochet with]
Anna from The Knotty Boss Anything else you’d like to tell us about? (i.e. exciting future projects, fun tidbits, etc.)
Just some random-ness:
I love cheese, chocolate and sauv blanc. I’m a dog person [sorry, cats] I’m obsessed with typography and fonts. Recently I’ve been on a Judge Judy kick [can’t get enough of her sassy courtroom antics… and yes, it’s currently on in the background, as I type this]Want to know where to find this talented maker? You can find Anna and The Knotty Boss at the links below:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/theknottyboss
Facebook: www.facebook.com/theknottyboss
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/theknottyboss -
Carter the Carrot Amigurumi Pattern
This post may contain affiliate links. This is an unsponsored post and all opinions are my own. In celebration of Best Friends Day tomorrow, I’ve teamed up with Osage County Crochet to bring you two free crochet patterns this week! While we were brainstorming ideas, we found out that tomorrow is Best Friends Day and wanted to do a best friends theme. After some deliberation, we wanted to make some amigurumi peas and carrots who were best friends. My contribution to this collaboration is Carter the Carrot.
I have to confess something. As soon as we started talking about our peas and carrots idea, I knew I was going to be putting a moustache on Carter the Carrot. I will put a moustache on ANYTHING. My very first crochet design was a cactus with a moustache on it. I don’t know why, but I think moustaches are hilarious and awesome so I love to put them on stuff.
Carter is a realitively quick and easy project that even beginners can do. You will need to know how to make a magic circle, single crochet, single crochet increase and decrease as well as how to single crochet in the back bump of your chain. (Need to learn how to crochet in the back bump of your chain? Check out this quick tutorial HERE.)
When you’re done here, head on over to Osage County Crochet to check out her part of our collaboration: Beary the Pea.
You can find Osage County Crochet on social media here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/osagecountycrochet/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/osagecountycrochet
Don’t lose it! Add it to your Ravelry Queue HERE.
Skill Level: Beginner
Get the inexpensive ad-free PDF copy of this pattern which includes step by step photos for making the glasses as well as the moustache template HERE via Etsy or HERE via Ravelry.
Supplies:
3.5 mm hook
2 – 10 mm eyes
Approximately 15 yards (14m) of Bernat Premium Yarn in Spring Green
Approximately 35 yards (32 m) of Red Heart Super Saver in Carrot
Black Craft Felt
Scissors
Tapestry Needle
Fabric Adhesive
20 Gauge Silver Craft/Jewelry Wire for Glasses
Sharpie Marker (or something around the same size to wrap the wire around for the glasses)
Polyester Stuffing
Stitch Marker
Abbreviations:
CH = Chain
MC = Magic Circle
SC = Single Crochet
SCINC = Single Crochet Increase
SCDEC = Single Crochet Decrease
SL ST = slip stitch
FO = Finish OffGauge: Not important as long as tension is maintained throughout the project and there are no large gaps between stitches – 10 stitches x 11 rows = 2″
Finished size: 7.5 inches tall x 2.5 inches wide (at its widest point).NOTES:
– This pattern is written in American standard terms
– This project is worked in the round. Do not join at the end of each round unless indicated otherwise.
Carter the Carrot Pattern:
Body
Row 1: Using orange, make a MC and SC 6 into the MC. (6)
Row 2: (SCINC) x 6 (12)
Row 3: (SC, SCINC) x 6 (18)
Row 4: SC 1, SCINC, (SC2, SCINC) x 5, SC1 (24)
Row 5: (SC 3, SCINC) x 6 (30)
Row 6: SC around (30)
Row 7: SC2, SCINC, (SC4, SCINC)X 5, SC2 (36)
Rows 8 – 10: SC around (36)
Row 11: SCDEC, SC16, SCDEC, SC16 (34)
Row 12: SC around (34)
Row 13: SC 8, SCDEC, SC15, SCDEC, SC7 (32)
Row 14: SC around (32) – Insert eyes 6 stitches apart in Row 14.
Row 15: SC 3, SCDEC, SC 13, SCDEC SC 12 (30)
Row 16: SC around (30)
Row 17: SC 13, SCDEC, SC 13, SCDEC (28)
Row 18: SC around (28)
Row 19: SC 4, SCDEC, SC 12, SCDEC, SC 8 (26)
Row 20: SC around (26)
Row 21: SC 7, SCDEC, SC 7, SCDEC, SC8 (24)
Row 22: SC around (24)
Row 23: SCDEC, SC10, SCDEC, SC 10 (22)
Row 24: SC around (22)
Row 25: SC5, SCDEC, SC9, SCDEC, SC4 (20)
Row 26: SC around (20)
Row 27: SC 8, SCDEC, SC 6, SCDEC, SC 2 (18)
Row 28: SC around (18)
Row 29: SC 2, SCDEC, SC7, SCDEC, SC5 (16)
Row 30: SC around (16)
Row 31: SCDEC, SC 6, SCDEC, SC 6 (14)
Row 32: SC around (14)
Row 33: SC 3, SCDEC, SC 5, SCDEC, SC 2 (12)
Row 34: SC around (12)
Row 35: SC 3, SCDEC, SC 4, SCDEC, SC 1 (10)
Row 36: SC around (10)
Row 37: SCDEC, SC 2, SCDEC, SC 2, SCDEC (7)
Row 38: SC around (7)
Row 39: SC 4, SCDEC, SC 1 (6)
FO and weave in ends.
Leaves
Row 1: Using green, make a MC and SC 6 into the MC. (6)
Row 2: (SCINC) x 6 (12)
Row 3: SC 1, *CH13, SC in the back bump of the 2nd CH from the hook. Working down the CH, SC 11 in the back bump of each CH. SC into the next stitch of Row 2.* Repeat 11 more times. SL ST into the first SC of this round. FO leaving a long tail to sew onto carrot body. Sew onto top of carrot head.Glasses
Using silver craft/jewelry wire, bend the wire at a 90 degree angle approximately an inch from the end of the wire. Next to the bend, create a circle by wrapping the wire around a large pen/marker once – this creates the first “lens”. Leave some wire straight to act as the bridge of the glasses. Make sure that the bridge is long enough so that when you create the second lens, the eyes should be centered in each “lens”. (I find it’s helpful to measure the space between the two eyes to help me gauge how long the bridge should be.) Wrap the wire around the marker again to create the second “lens”. Create a 90 degree bend in the wire to create the second “arm” and cut off at an inch and a half. Put them on the carrot, inserting the arms into the carrot, through the spaces between the stiches on the outside of the each eye. (Need more help? A step-by-step photo tutorial for making the glasses is available on the ad-free PDF available HERE via Etsy or HERE via Ravelry.)
Moustache
Cut a moustache out of black felt. Mine is approximately 1 3/8” long. The template that I used for my moustache is available in the PDF of the pattern which is available HERE via Etsy or HERE via Ravelry. Apply some of the fabric glue to one side of the moustache and glue it to the carrot just below the bottom of the glasses.
When you’re done here, don’t forget to head on over to Osage County Crochet to see her pattern for Carter’s best friend Beary Pea.
Disclaimer:
Feel free to sell the item created by this pattern but please provide pattern credit back to me when posting online, and please provide a link to my Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/ca/shop/theloopylamb. Please do not resell, distribute, duplicate, or share this pattern in any printed or digital form, claiming this pattern as your own original design. Please do not use my photos when selling your finished items.
I’d love to see your finished Carter the Carrot! Please share your finished makes by tagging the pattern on Ravelry, sharing it to our Facebook page or use #theloopylamb on Instagram. Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheLoopyLamb
Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheLoopyLamb
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/theloopylamb
Newsletter: Sign up for my newsletter!If you like amigurumi patterns, check out these fun projects: Wanda the Whale and Ned th Narwhal or Clawdia Cat
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How to Crochet the Foundation Double Crochet Stitch
This post may contain affiliate links. This is an unsponsored post and all opinons are my own. This week I want to show you how to do a foundation double crochet (FDC). You may have heard some buzz about foundation stitches (aka chainless foundation stitches) lately and there is a good reason why – Foundation stitches create your base chain and your first row of stitches for your project at the same time. The foundation double crochet stitch is a real time saver and it isn’t as tedious as working into chains to create your first row.
Foundation stitches have more stretch than working into chains and tend to look tidier because it is easier to maintain tension throughout your first row. My favourite part? No more counting chains! You just make as many stitches as you need. What’s not to love?
Step 1: Ch 3.
Step 2: Yarn over and insert your hook into the 3rd chain from hook.
Step 3: Yarn over and pull up a loop. You should have 3 loops on your hook. Next, you’ll yarn over and pull through 1 loop on your hook. This creates the “chain”.
Step 4: Yarn over and draw through 2 loops on your hook. You should have 2 loops left on your hook.
Step 5: Yarn over and pull through all the loops on your hook. This creates your first foundation double crochet stitch.
Step 6: For the next stitch (and subsequent stitches), yarn over and insert your hook under the 2 loops of the “chain” of the last stitch and pull up a loop. You should have 3 loops on your hook again.
Step 7: Yarn over and draw through 1 loop on your hook. This leaves 3 loops on your hook.
Step 8: Yarn over and draw through 2 loops on your hook. This leaves 2 loops on your hook.
Step 9: Yarn over and draw through all the remaining loops on your hook. This creates your foundation double crochet stitch.
Repeat steps 6 to 9 until you have the number of stitches required for your project.
I hope that you enjoyed this tutorial! Please don’t foreget to pin and share this post.
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Colour Block Make Up Bag Crochet Pattern
This post may contain affiliate links. This is an unsponsored post. All opinions are my own. The colour block make up bag is a super easy, beginner-friendly crochet pattern that can be made in a few hours. Because who doesn’t love a quick, easy crochet pattern?
Don’t lose it. Add it to your Ravelry Queue HERE.
One of my favourite features of this bag is the suede tassel. I hunted high and low to find the perfect tassel for this project. After going to a few shops locally and searching online, I found this beauty on Etsy at Moxie’s Leather. Their tassels were gorgeous and I was so excited to support another Canadian maker that I couldn’t wait for it to get here. I think it was the perfect finishing touch to this bag.
I also added another one of the Tim Holtz Word Bands to this bag. I have used them on the last two bags I’ve designed (The Rainbow Saver Tote Bag and the Shoreline Seeker Tote) and I really enjoyed the look they give to the bags. The one I used on this bag says “Encourage your hope, not your fears”.
Colour Block Make Up Bag Crochet Pattern
Skill Level: Beginner
Get the inexpensive ad-free PDF copy of this pattern HERE.
Supplies:
Bernat Handicrafter in White (1- 50g Skein) and Classic Navy (1 – 50g Skein)
4 mm crochet hook
Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
8” White Zipper
White Sewing Thread and Sewing Needle
Tim Holtz Idea-ology Word Band (Optional)
4” Leather Tassel (Optional) – I got mine from Moxie’s Leather on Etsy (HERE)
1 – 9mm Split Jump Ring to attach Tassel to Zipper (Optional)
Sewing Pins
Measuring Tape
Scissors
Fabric Pencil (or something to mark where you need to sew on the bottom of the bag)
Abbreviations:
CH = Chain
SC = Single Crochet
SCINC = Single Crochet Increase
SCDEC = Single Crochet Decrease
SL ST = slip stitch
FO = Finish OffSize: Finished size: Approximately 3.75 inches tall x 8.75 inches wide (at widest part) x 3“ deep (at base).
Gauge: 9.5 sts across x 9 rows = 2” square
NOTES:
– This pattern is written in American standard terms
– This project is worked in the round. The end of each round is joined with a slip stitch to the first stitch of that round.
Using Classic Navy, CH 71. Join with a SL ST to the first CH to form a ring. CH 1. (71)
Rows 1 – 12: SC in the first stitch and in each stitch around. Join to the first stitch with a SL ST. CH1. (71)
Change to White
Rows 13 – 23: SC in the first stitch and in each stitch around. Join to the first stitch with a SL ST. CH1 (71)
Row 24: SC in the first stitch and in each stitch around. Join to the first stitch with a SL ST. (71)
FO. Weave in ends.
With the bag inside out, line up the bottom stitches. Using Classic Navy, sew the bottom of the bag together, sewing through each set of lined up stitches. FO and weave in ends.Applying the zipper: Pin in the zipper and using the sewing thread and needle, sew the zipper to the bag.
To make the square bottom: Keeping the bag inside out, turn it upside down. Lay the bag so that the bottom faces up and one of the corners lays out in a triangular shape, with the seam centered. Use a ruler and measure 1 1/8” from the tip of the cover and mark a line across the corner at that point. Using Classic Navy, sew through both layers across that line. Repeat on the other corner. Fold the corners towards the center of the inside of the bag and using a length of classic navy secure the corners down to the bottom of the bag.
Finishing Touches: If using the word band, sew it to the front of the bag in the center, just below the opening.
If using the tassel, attach it to the jump ring and attach the jump ring to the zipper to act as a zipper pull.Disclaimer:
Feel free to sell the item created by this pattern but please provide pattern credit back to me when posting online, and please provide a link to my Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/ca/shop/theloopylamb. Please do not resell, distribute, duplicate, or share this pattern in any printed or digital form, claiming this pattern as your own original design. Please do not use my photos when selling your finished items.
I’d love to see your finished items! Please share your finished makes by tagging the pattern on Ravelry, sharing it to our Facebook page or Instagram. Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheLoopyLamb
Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheLoopyLamb
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/theloopylamb
Newsletter: Sign up for my newsletter!
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How to Crochet the Foundation Single Crochet Stitch
You may have heard some buzz about foundation stitches (aka chainless foundation stitches) lately and there is a good reason why – Foundation stitches create your base chain and your first row of stitches for your project at the same time. The Foundation Single Crochet Stitch is a real time saver and it isn’t as tedious as working into chains to create your first row. Foundation stitches create your chains and first row of stitches at the same time.
Foundation stitches have more stretch than working into chains and tend to look tidier because it is easier to maintain tension throughout your first row. My favourite part? No more counting chains! You just make as many stitches as you need. What’s not to love?
How to Crochet the Foundation Single Crochet Stitch (FSC)
Step 1: Chain 2.
Step 2: Insert your hook in the second chain from the hook and yarn over.
Step 3: Pull up a loop. You should have two loops on your hook.
Step 4: Yarn over and pull through one loop on your hook. This creates your “chain”.
Step 5: Yarn over and pull through both loops on your hook. This creates your first foundation single crochet (FSC).
Step 6: For the next stitch (and subsequent stitches), insert your hook under the “chain” of the last stitch. Yarn over and pull up a loop (2 loops on hook).
Step 7: Yarn over and pull through 1 loop on your hook.
Step 8: Yarn over and pull through both loops on your hook. This creates your foundation single crochet stitch.
Repeat steps 6 to 8 until you have the desired number of stitches for your project.
I hope that you enjoyed this tutorial! Please don’t forget to pin and share this post.
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Rainbow Saver Tote Crochet Pattern
This post contains affiliate links. This is a sponsored post but all opinions are my own. I had been looking for a really great rainbow yarn pallette for a while for this design when I came across the Chiffon Rainbow Ombre Pack from Darn Good Yarn. I am a sucker for ombre pallettes but when i saw the rainbow pack, I was sold. I knew I had to design something with it. The Rainbow Saver Tote is the result.
Get an inexpensive ad-free PDF version of this pattern HERE.
What drew me to this product (other than the lovely colours) was the fact that Chiffon Ombre Packs are made from recycled Saris. I love getting to crochet with different fibres and textures. Additionally, using this stuff keeps it out of landfills. Honestly, I was hooked.
If you haven’t checked out Darn Good Yarn yet, I recommend that you do. They have some really cool products that are unique and environmentally friendly. Most of the products are ethically sourced, recycled materials in a variety of gorgeous colours. The Chiffon Rainbow Ombre Pack that was used to make this bag is a size 5 bulky yarn and I used an 8mm crochet hook.
Rainbow Saver Tote Pattern
Skill Level: Beginner
Supplies:
1 Chiffon Ribbon Ombre Pack in Ribbon from Darn Good Yarn (Use the code THELOOPYLAMB15 to save 15%
8 mm crochet hook
Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
4 – 11.1 mm Eyelets or Grommets
11.1 mm Eyelet/Grommet Application kit
Hammer
Approximately 6 feet of 3/8” 3 strand cotton rope for handles (I got mine from mapleleafropes.com)
Optional: Tim Holtz Idea-ology Word Band
Optional: Sewing thread and needle if using the word band
Abbreviations:
CH = Chain
SC = Single Crochet
SCINC = Single Crochet Increase
SL ST = slip stitch
BLO = Back Loops Only
FO = Finish OffDon’t lose it. Add it to your Ravelry Queue HERE.
Size: One Size
Finished size: Approximately 13 inches tall (when standing) x 16.75 inches wide.
Gauge: 9 sts across x 11 rows = 4” square
NOTES:
– This pattern is written in American standard terms
– This bag is worked in the round. Do not join at the end of each round unless indicated otherwise.
– When changing colours, I use the invisible join method to minimize the look of the colour changes and to avoid having a visible seam. You can find a tutorial on how to do the invisible join HERE. Alternatively, you can join each round with a slip stitch but you will have a visible seam.
– You can make this pattern without the eyelets/grommets but they add strength and longevity to the bag. Since the Chiffon Ribbon is chiffon, it may not hold up as long without the eyelets/grommets acting as a shield from the friction of your handle.
Pattern:Using Indigo, CH 21.
Row 1: 3 SC in the 2nd CH from the hook. SC 18, 5 SC in the last CH. Working on the other side of the chain, SC 18, 2 SC in the last CH (46)
Row 2: (SCINC) x 3, SC 18, (SCINC) x 5, SC 18, (SCINC) x 2 (56)
Row 3: (SC 1, SCINC) x 3, SC 18, (SC 1, SCINC) x 5, SC 18, (SC 1, SCINC) x 2 (66)
Row 4: (SC 2, SCINC) x 3, SC 18 , (SC 2, SCINC) x 5, SC 18, (SC 2, SCINC) x 2 (76)
Row 5: In BLO, SC in each stitch around (76)
Rows 6 – 8: SC in each stitch around (76)
Change to Blue
Rows 9 – 14: SC in each stitch around (76)
Change to Green
Rows 15 – 20: SC in each stitch around (76)
Change to Yellow
Rows 21 – 26: SC in each stitch around (76)
Change to Orange
Rows 27 – 32: SC in each stitch around (76)
Change to Red
Rows 33 – 34: SC in each stitch around (76)Row 35: SC 19, CH 1, SK 1, SC 14, CH1, SK1, SC 22, CH 1, SK 1, SC 14, CH 1, SK 1, SC 3 (76)
Rows 36 – 38: SC in each stitch around (76)
Join to the first stitch with a SL ST and FO. Weave in ends.Adding the Eyelets/Grommets
You will need a solid surface that can handle the force of a hammer being using on it to apply the grommets.
Add eyelets/grommets to each of the CH 1 spaces. The side with the “stem” is the grommet so insert it through the CH 1 space from the outside. It will be a snug fit. There will be a solid metal circle that comes with the grommet kit. This is the base. Place the base underneath your grommet (it protects it from being damaged).
This picture shows the outside facing part of the grommet on top of the grommet application kit.
This is what it looks like after the grommet has been inserted through the chain space.
This is the back of the grommet (washer) that should be facing the inside of your bag.
Place the washer over top of the stem portion of the grommet.
Place the flaring tool inside the hole of the grommet.
Hit the flaring tool with the grommet until the washer and grommet are fastened securely together.
Adding the Handles:
Cut rope into two 38” lengths. Insert the end of one of the rope lengths through an eyelet going from the inside to the outside of the bag. Tie a knot in the end of the rope that you just pulled to the outside of the bag and pull taut. Repeat with the other end of the same handle, ensuring that you are inserting it through the eyelet on the same side of the bag that you used the first time. Once complete, repeat to create the handle on the other side of the bag. I picked cotton rope because it frays a bit when cut and it gives a cool weathered look to the rope. If you don’t like the fraying, you could try using a nylon rope or polyester blend rope. I prefer the cotton because it is softer on your hands and I prefer the twisted look rather to braided.
Attaching the Word Band
If using the word band, using a sewing needle and thread, sew the word band onto your bag. I placed mine in the center point between the knots of one of the handles.
Disclaimer:
Feel free to sell the item created by this pattern but please provide pattern credit back to me when posting online, and please provide a link to my Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/ca/shop/theloopylamb. Please do not resell, distribute, duplicate, or share this pattern in any printed or digital form, claiming this pattern as your own original design. Please do not use my photos when selling your finished items.
I’d love to see your finished items! Please share your finished makes by tagging the pattern on Ravelry, sharing it to our Facebook page or Instagram. Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheLoopyLamb
Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheLoopyLamb
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/theloopylamb
Newsletter: Sign up for my newsletter!
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Featured Maker Program -Call for Makers
I am so excited to finally be able to share this with you! After some thought about what I want The Loopy Lamb blog to be and how I can give back to the crochet community, I came up with my Featured Maker Program.
As a believer in community over competition, my goal with the Featured Maker Program is to help lift other makers up. I want to provide a platform to showcase the talent of other makers and to help my readers get to know some of the incredibly talented and passionate makers that are out there.
I’m looking for positive creators that can work in a collaborative manner and have the organizational skills to meet deadlines.
If you are a maker and are interested in being featured, check out this link to get the full details and the application. I can’t wait to collaborate with you!
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheLoopyLamb
Instagram:www.instagram.com/TheLoopyLamb
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/theloopylamb
Newsletter: Sign up for my newsletter! -
The Shoreline Seeker Tote Free Crochet Pattern
This post may contain afilliate links. This is an unsponsored post. All opinions are my own. Raise your hand if you can’t wait until the warmer weather gets here! ✋ We have been getting some pretty crazy weather here this spring and it has had me longing for the long, hot days of summer. In preparation for our family trips to the beach, I wanted to create a beach tote that was big enough to carry everything we need for a trip to the beach. So I created the Shoreline Seeker Tote.
The Shoreline Seek Tote is a fun and quick project using Bernat Maker Home Dec. It is a cotton and nylon blend bulky (size 5) yarn which is just like a t-shirt yarn. Since it has a tubular construction, it doesn’t have plies to split while you’re crocheting. It is machine washable (which, as a mom, I absolutely love) and i thoroughly enjoyed working with it.
Don’t lose it! Add it to your Ravelry Queue HERE.
The length of the strap is long enough to be worn across the body but still short enough to be worn on just one shoulder. You can adjust the length of the strap by adding or omitting rows.
I found these really cute word bands when I was at Michaels a little while ago and I thought they would look great as a tag. The one that I added to my bag says “Enjoy the Journey” which really spoke to me. If you have ever vacationed with young kids, you can sometimes feel like you need a vacation from your vacation by the end. It can be hard to relax when you’re running after little ones. So I added this specific tag to my bag as a reminder to slow down and enjoy the journey with my kids when on vacation. This time with them is short and sweet so I need that reminder to enjoy the craziness while I can.
Get an inexpensive ad-free PDF version of the Shoreline Seeker Tote pattern HERE.
Skill Level: Beginner
Supplies:
2 skeins of Bernat Maker Home Dec in Aqua
5 mm crochet hook
8 mm crochet hook
Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
Optional: Tim Holtz Idea-ology Word Band
Abbreviations:
CH = Chain
SL ST = slip stitch
SC = Single Crochet
FHDC = Foundation Half Double Crochet (Check out my tutorial HERE)
HDC = Half Double Crochet
FO = Finish OffSize: One Size
Finished size: 16.5 inches tall x 21.5 inches wide.
Gauge: 13 sts across x 9 rows = 4” square \
Pattern:
Bag Body:
Row 1: FHDC 99 or CH100 and HDC in the 2nd CH from the hook and each st. across. CH1 and turn. (99)
Row 2: HDC 2, CH1, Skip 1, *HDC 1, CH1, Skip 1* repeat 47 times. HDC 2. CH 1 and turn. (99)
Row 3: HDC in the first two stitches. HDC in the CH space. *HDC in the next stitch. HDC in the CH space* repeat 47 times. HDC in the last two stitches. CH 1 and turn. (99)
Rows 4 – 49: Alternate Row 2 and 3 (99)
fter you have chained 1 and turned on row 49, fold the bag in half (with right sides together) bringing the left side of Row 49 together with the right side of Row 49. SL ST the two sides together to create a seam. Cut Yarn. Reattach yarn on the other short end of the rectangle in the first stitch of your foundation row. SL ST the two sides together to create a seam. FO and weave in ends.
Trim and Strap:
Row 1: Reattach yarn at the top of the bag near the seam and SC 100 evenly around the top of the bag. Do not join.
Row 2: Continue working in the round, HDC in each stitch around (100)
Row 3: HDC around. (100)
Row 4: Switch to 5.5mm hook. This will start the strap. SC 6. CH 1 and turn.
Row 5: SC 10. CH 1 and turn.
Rows 6 -96: SC across. CH 1 and turn (10)
Row 97: SC across. FO leaving a long tail to sew the strap to the other side of the bag.
Count 40 stitches to the left of the first stitch of your strap and place a stitch marker. Place a stitch marker in the 10th stitch away from the first stitch marker. Line up the unfinished end of your strap with your stitch markers that you placed on the body of the bag (taking care not to twist the strap) and sew the strap to the body of the bag.Optional: If using the word band, sew the word band onto the side of your bag. I placed mine in the center of the trim.
I hope you enjoyed making your Shoreline Seeker Tote. Please remember to pin and share this post.
Disclaimer:
Feel free to sell the item created by this pattern but please provide pattern credit back to me when posting online, and please provide a link to my Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/ca/shop/theloopylamb. Please do not resell, distribute, duplicate, or share this pattern in any printed or digital form, claiming this pattern as your own original design. Please do not use my photos when selling your finished items.
I’d love to see your finished items! Please share your finished makes by tagging the pattern on Ravelry, sharing it to our Facebook page or Instagram. Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheLoopyLamb
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How to Do The Foundation Half Double Crochet Stitch
This week I want to show you how to do a foundation half double crochet (FHDC). I’m showing you this technique this week because you’ll need it for next week’s free crochet pattern. Once you see how much quicker it is, you’ll be hooked!
You may have heard some buzz about foundation stitches (aka chainless foundation stitches) lately and there is a good reason why – Foundation stitches create your base chain and your first row of stitches for your project at the same time. This is a real time saver and it isn’t as tedious as working into chains to creat your first row. Foundation stitches have more stretch than working into chains and tend to look tidier because it is easier to maintain tension throughout your first row. My favourite part? No more counting chains! You just make as many stitches as you need. What’s not to love?
How to Crochet the Foundation Half Double Crochet
Step 1: Ch 2.
Step 2: Yarn over and insert your hook into the 2nd chain from hook.
Step 3: Yarn over and pull up a loop. You should have 3 loops on your hook. Next, you’ll yarn over and pull through 1 loop on your hook. This creates the “chain”.
Step 4: Yarn over and draw through all loops on your hook. This creates your first foundation half double crochet stitch.
Step 5: For the next stitch (and subsequent stitches), yarn over and insert your hook under the 2 loops of the “chain” of the last stitch and pull up a loop. You should have 3 loops on your hook again.
Step 6: Yarn over and draw through 1 loop on your hook.
Step 7: Yarn over and draw through all the loops on your hook. Now you have 2 foundation half double crochet stitches (FHDC).
Repeat steps 5 to 7 until you have the number of stitches you need for your project.
I hope that you enjoyed this tutorial! Please don’t forget to pin and share this post.
Want to learn how to do the foundation single crochet stitch next? Click HERE.
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Sloth Hook Case Crochet Pattern
When I realized that I had more crochet hooks than my first hook case could hold, I needed to come up with a solution. Obviously I was going to crochet something to solve my problem, but what? I typically start working at 5am so that initial climb out of bed can be a slow one. It was on one of those mornings that I had the thought: perhaps sloths are my spirit animal. Then it hit me! I would make myself a sloth hook case!
A modification of my sloth cup cozy pattern, this hook case is super adorable. If you’re ambitious you can line this with a cute and fun fabric. If you’re lazy like I am, you can go ahead and skip the lining and just stitch the zipper directly to the pouch.
Don’t lose it! Add it to your Ravelry Queue HERE.
An ad-free PDF is available for a tiny fee HERE and it helps me continue to provide patterns for free on my blog.
Skill Level: Beginner
Supplies:
Approximately 8 yards of Loops and Threads Impeccable Yarn in Brown for the eye patches and nose, 69 yards of Bernat Premium in Café Au Lait for the pouch, 22 yards of Red Heart Super Saver in Buff for the face.
4.5 mm crochet hook
2 – 18mm Mushroom/Shank Buttons or Safety Eyes
Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
7” zipper in a coordinating colour. I used brown.
Scissors
Sewing needle and coordinating thread to sew in the zipper
Optional: Fabric for lining the case
Abbreviations:
CH = Chain
SL ST = slip stitch
SC = Single Crochet
SCINC = Single Crochet Increase
HDC = Half Double Crochet
HDCINC = Half Double Crochet Increase
FO = Finish OffSize: Finished size: Approximately 4.75 inches tall x 8 inches wide.
Gauge: 17 sts across x 13 rows = 4” square
NOTES: All pieces of this project are worked in continuous rounds. Only join the rounds where indicated.
Pouch
Row 1: Using Café au Lait, CH 31. In the 3rd CH from the hook, HDCINC. HDC 27. HDC 4 in the last CH. On the other side of the CH, HDC 27. HDCINC in the last CH. Do not join. (62)
Row 2: HDCINC in the next two stitches. HDC 27, HDCINC in the next four stitches. HDC 27, HDCINC in the last two stitches. (70)
Rows 3 – 14: HDC in each stitch around. (70)
Row 15: (This is a partial round to even up the two sides, you will not complete a full round.) HDC 24, SC 10, SL ST 3.
FO and weave in ends.Eye Patches (Make 2)
Row 1: Using Brown, CH 6. SCINC in the 2nd CH from the hook. SC 3, SC 5 in the last CH. Working on the other side of the CH, SC 3, SC 3 in the last CH. Do not join.
Row 2: (HDCINC) x 2, HDC 3, (HDCINC) x 5, HDC 3, (HDCINC) x 3.
FO leaving a long tail to sew onto the face.Face
Row 1: Using Buff, CH 15. SCINC in the 2nd CH from the hook. SC 12. SC 5 in the last CH. Working on the other side of the CH, SC 12. SC 3 in the last CH. Do not join. (34)
Row 2: (SCINC) x 2, SC 12. (SCINC) x 5, SC 12, (SCINC) x 3. (44)
Row 3: (SCINC, SC1) x 2, SC 12. (SCINC, SC1) x 5. SC 12, (SCINC, SC1) x 3 (54)
Row 4: (HDCINC, HDC 2) x 2. HDC 12. (HDCINC, HDC 2) x 5. HDC 12. (HDCINC, HDC 2) x 3 (64)
Row 5: (HDCINC, HDC 3) x 2. HDC 12. (HDCINC, HDC 3) x 5. HDC 12. (HDCINC, HDC 3) x 3 (74)
FO leaving a tail long enough to sew the face onto the pouch.
AssemblySew the face onto the pouch body. Place the button through the small gap created when you put 5 SCs in the last CH of the eye patch. Secure button. Repeat with the other eye patch. Position each eye patch on the face, slightly overlapping the edge of the face and sew onto face/pouch. Using dark brown, add a small nose between the eyes. I like my nose to be about 4 stitches wide.
If you’re using safety eyes: Insert the stem of the safety eye through the small gap created when you put 5 SCs in the last CH in the eye patch. Put the back on the eye. Position your eye patch as noted above and secure. The stem of the safety eye will be between the eye patch and the face so it shouldn’t poke into your pouch. Repeat with the other eye and eye patch. Use the dark brown yarn to add a nose between the eyes.
Attaching the Zipper
If you’re going to line the pouch, pin the zipper to the lining and then pin and sew the lining into the pouch. If you’re not using a lining, pin the zipper in place directly to the pouch and using your sewing needle and thread, sew the zipper into place.
Love sloths? Check out my sloth crochet cup cozy that matches this hook case!
Disclaimer:
Feel free to sell the item created by this pattern but please provide pattern credit back to me when posting online, and please provide a link to my Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/ca/shop/theloopylamb. Please do not resell, distribute, duplicate, or share this pattern in any printed or digital form, claiming this pattern as your own original design. Please do not use my photos when selling your finished items.
I’d love to see your sloth hook case! Please share your finished makes by tagging the pattern on Ravelry, sharing it to our Facebook page or Instagram. Tag me on social media or use #theloopylamb on Instagram. Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheLoopyLamb
Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheLoopyLamb
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/theloopylamb
Newsletter: Sign up for my newsletter!
