Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

Clever Crochet Stitch Marker

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cro locking stitch markers 0913

Have you seen these very clever and useful stitch markers?  Clover, a company whose products I have come to rely on, has created these locking stitch markers that have an additional little clip on them.  The tiny clip can hold a small piece of paper on which you can indicate useful information.

Have you ever put down a project for a week or two only to have no idea where in the pattern or what hook size you were using?  I have – oh, and way more than  once or twice!  I have some cute homemade markers that indicate the hook size, but this little marker plays double duty.

The locking safety-pin-style hook can hold your stitches in place so you don’t lose any when you move the project around.  Plus, you can put other information on that little piece of paper.  How about adding the pattern name, its source, what row you’re on, etc?

I saw these first in the catalog I received from Patternworks, Fall 2013.  Tomorrow, I’m heading to my LYS to get me some.  The list price is $5.99 for a 6 count package.  Gotta find a coupon.

Comments

  1. JD-Wish I could take credit for this, but I can’t. A good crochet friend of mine, has made some stitch holders out of safety pins that does all of the above with beads. Each pin has a letter bead which represents the hook used. If more info is needed, we just use a post it and put it thru the pin and tack it on too. Everyone in the group has two sets. ( saves some $$ for yarn).
    Regards. Barbara R

Have you read?

Whip It Up Crochet Blanket – Free Pattern

This Free Whip It Up Crochet Blanket Pattern from Mary Maxim looks like pure comfort crochet. It is a free download for a crochet afghan, and Mary Maxim describes it as a beautifully textured blanket with a plush, soft texture designed to be worked up quickly.

The yarn choice is what really sets the tone here. This pattern uses Bernat Blanket Extra Thick, with 5 skeins and a U.S. U/50 (25 mm) crochet hook. That puts it firmly in the jumbo-yarn category, which usually means fast progress, chunky stitches, and that lovely instant-gratification feeling where the blanket actually starts looking like a blanket very quickly. Mary Maxim lists the yarn as weight 7 jumbo.

The finished size is also generous at 52 x 60 inches, so this is more than a tiny lap throw. It sounds like a proper snuggle-on-the-sofa blanket, and one that would make a nice gift as well. Mary Maxim specifically suggests it as a throw for home décor or as a thoughtful handmade present.

Skill-wise, this one looks very approachable. The page lists it as Beginner / Easy, and the stitch requirements are simple: chain, double crochet, repeat, single crochet, and slip knot. That makes it a good option for newer crocheters who want a chunky blanket project without too much fuss, or for more experienced crocheters who just want something relaxing and cozy on the hook.

I also think this is the kind of pattern that has strong appeal for anyone who likes fast, useful projects. Jumbo yarn blankets are not subtle, but that is part of their charm. They feel squishy, dramatic, and very giftable. Sometimes you want a delicate heirloom project, and sometimes you want a big soft blanket that feels like crocheting with a cloud. This one definitely leans toward the second category. That last part is my take based on the listed materials, size, and description.