Another Scarf

I've completed my FIRST crochet pattern scarf.  As I've shared before, I'm more of a 'freestyle' crafter.  I learn the basics and then go with the flow.  I try new things out, collect and consult patterns.....then create from there.

I decided that I should try to follow a pattern so I can learn how to read a crochet pattern, being that I'm still new to this and all.  I found this pattern on Ravelry.  I now understand why my girlfriend says she's a "pattern-ho".  It's easy to collect patterns, so many choices and styles.

Anyway, this pattern is called Cascade Scarf (it's a free pattern by Lion Brand Yarn)....not bad for my first one, eh?  I've already gone through my stash and will be making another one tonight.  Gotta love crochet--it's quick!

What are you up do these days???

Fresh Off the Hooks!

Earlier this year I purchased some chunky baby alpaca yarn (IT'S SUPER SOFT & WARM) at a lovely yarn store (aren't they all?).  Since that time I've been deciding exactly what to make with it.  I settled on a scarf--simple and easy.  Instead of knitting it, I chose to crochet it.  I think the pattern I 'freestyled' as nice and was able to complete it in just under 2 hours!! (yeah, that the main reason why I chose crochet over knitting)

As I was making it, my son asked me to make him one, which is a big deal (to me at least) as he's never asked for something handmade from me (although I've made him several things)!  I looked through my stash and found the baby alpaca yarn that I purchased on Ebay months before his birth.  I was able to make him some booties of out that yarn, but that was it.  I'm must completed his scarf and will be starting on a matching hat.

It's rather hot still....but Winter is coming! My plan is to have everyone 'hatted' and 'scarfed' up before the cold winds blow!

What's NOT on my Needles?

I usually see posts about "What's ON your Needles?"  When I browse crafting/knitting/crocheting sites, this is a frequent question.

Well, I've been taking time [in this blazing heat] to knit.  Yep. Knitting.  I'm determined to complete my started projects BEFORE starting new ones (and boy do I have some new ones I want to start on)!

So here's the completion to a winter set for me:

(I made the scarf previously--it was crocheted.)

So, what's NOT on your needles?? (or in your sewing machine?)