Crochet

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2013 Crochet, Here We Come!

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Time is running out for 2012 and we’ll soon be welcoming 2013.  I’m not huge on making New Year’s Resolutions, but this year I’ve decided to make a few resolutions regarding my crochet.

1. Use up stash on hand

2. Get rid of yarn that in my stash that I’ll never use

3. Purchase only the best yarn for each project rather than looking for the least expensive alternative.  Given all the time I put into each project, it deserves the very best.

These are my resolutions.  What are yours?

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And, here’s a bonus for you.  You can get the free pattern Clock Pattern and fantastic tutorial (including non-crochet elements) on Matt’s site.

More Crochet?

Comments

  4. I agree with your 3. And add make sure I really like the pattern. And if its something for me, it will look good on me and fit properly! I don’t even like to think how much time I have wasted starting something, only to end up pulling it out because it didn’t look right!

  5. Yours are all good but I would add for me 4. Finish all unfinished projects from 2012 before starting any new projects in 2013. 5. Plan better so that my crochet gifts can be completed without having to stay up late for multiple nights to finish gifts in time. 6. Stop downloading every “cute” pattern I see but know I will never make (pin to Pininterest instead). 7. Finish setting up my blog so that I can share more with others (this is for all crafts).

  6. I love your intentions for 2013, especially the one to purchase quality yarn (and supplies) rather than the most affordable. I am also going to add to my list to be more active on ravelry to check patterns rather than getting frustrated and using this resource after the fact.

  7. I would like to finish all uncompleted projects before starting new ones but I think I might make it work if I do one old and then one new.

  8. 1). Using stash yarn…
    2). Try not to buy yarn for “just because, or just in case”
    3). Finish at least one wip per quarter
    4). If any yarn is leftover from a project, add it to one of the many long term projects…crochet versions of scrap quilts – no time limits on these, as they are driven by yarn type/weight/content
    5). Work on any project every evening – destress and be creative

  9. I made your #3 a resolution a few years back and I have never regretted it! Now yes I do have a stash, but it’s all good stuff! So if I need something for a particular project, I’m very likely to find it in my “yarn shop” in the attic! Life is short, I spend a lot of it crocheting, and I refuse to crochet with scratchy yarn I can’t stand. Instead I buy only “good stuff” that’s pleasing to both my eyes and hands, using coupons and sales when I can.

  13. If you’d like to add CrochetGossip to your twitter feed, there’s a link on the upper right side of each page of my blog. Just click on that and add this blog to your account. And, Thank You! I have quite a number of twitter followers – always an honor.
    jd

Have you read?

Cropped Chunky Granny Stitch Cardigan Crochet Pattern

There is something about a chunky granny stitch cardigan that just feels instantly wearable, isn’t there? It has that lovely handmade texture we all adore, but it still looks modern enough to throw on with jeans, wide-leg pants, a simple dress, or, if you are feeling a little festival-ready, a floaty boho skirt and boots.

This boho granny stitch cropped cardigan crochet pattern has that perfect relaxed handmade look without feeling too oversized or shapeless. The cropped length keeps it flattering, while the open granny-style stitch gives it plenty of drape and texture. I especially love it worked in a soft sage green, because it gives the whole design a calm, earthy, slightly vintage feel without looking dated.

The design features a boxy cropped body, open front styling, wide sleeves, and a textured granny-style stitch pattern that gives the cardigan its statement look. It is the kind of crochet cardigan that looks impressive but still feels approachable if you are comfortable with basic crochet stitches and joining simple garment pieces together.

This is a lovely project for crocheters who want to move beyond scarves and blankets but are not quite ready for complicated shaping. The beauty of this style is that the relaxed fit is forgiving, which makes it a good first wearable project if you have been wanting to dip your toe into crochet clothing.

The chunky texture is also a bonus for impatient crocheters — and yes, I am raising my hand here. There is nothing worse than starting a cardigan and feeling like you have committed to a six-month relationship with one sleeve. This type of open stitch pattern builds quickly and gives you that satisfying “oh look, it’s actually becoming a cardigan” feeling fairly early on.

For yarn, I would choose something soft but structured enough to hold the stitch definition. A chunky or bulky yarn in cotton blend, acrylic blend, or wool blend would work beautifully depending on the season. Sage green gives it that boho handmade look, but this pattern would also be gorgeous in oatmeal, rust, denim blue, cream, mushroom brown, or a soft dusty rose.

If you are styling it for a modern boho look, pair it with sage wide-leg pants, a simple white tank, layered necklaces, and a crossbody bag. For cooler months, it would also look lovely over a fitted long-sleeve tee with jeans and ankle boots.

What I Like About This Pattern

The cropped length makes it feel fresh and wearable.

The granny stitch texture gives it a beautiful handmade look.

The open-front shape means there is no fussing with buttons or closures.

The wide sleeves add a relaxed bohemian feel.

It is a great project for crocheters who want a wearable garment without too much shaping.

Skill Level

I would place this as an advanced beginner to intermediate crochet pattern, depending on how confident you are with garment construction. The stitching itself appears beginner-friendly if you already know the basics, but assembling a cardigan and keeping your gauge consistent does require a little patience.

If you are new to crochet garments, take your measurements before starting, check gauge properly, and don’t skip blocking. I know blocking is one of those things we all pretend we are going to do “later,” but with a cardigan like this, it really helps the stitches relax and the edges sit nicely.