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COMING TO PEACE WITH PIECES (AND TAILS)

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pink-afghan-wip.jpg
Do you hate weaving in all those tails that are left dangling when you make squares, strips, and panels? I used to too. But, no more. At some point, I came to peace with the pieces and the tails they produce. I used to hate having to weave in all those dratted tails. Now, I enjoy hiding them within stitches and rows of my crochet.

What changed? I think I began to see the weaving in process as the ‘nearing completion’ stage of my work. I could really see the project take shape as I stopped long enough to weave in loose ends as I changed colors or joined squares. A certain serenity comes over me as I thread the large needle and begin to turn the work this way and that to see the best route for the needle and tail.

So, maybe we all just need an attitude adjustment when it comes to those loose ends. Maybe we can begin to view the loose ends as milestones in the creative process rather than stumbling blocks to completion of projects. I’ve actually heard of people who finished many projects to the point of weaving in the ends – then just abandoned the projects because of the hated weaving in process.

It’s a shame to be so near to the finish line – but refuse to cross it. So, we DO need that attitude adjustment. We need to view those dangling bits of yarn and thread as evidence of our accomplishment rather than as a hindrance.

Addendum:

This particular project is only about 1/4 done. It’s going to be a lapghan for ME! Pink is my favorite color. When I saw this yarn at my LYS, although there were only 8 skeins of this chunky stuff, I just had to have it!! About the hook….it’s a size L and it’s a wonderful hook I bought from a hook maker on the internet. Sadly, I cannot recommend the hook maker despite the fact that this is a great hook and I bought a set of them – and they’re custom made to my specifications. So, please don’t ask.

Comments

  2. Weaving in ends has never been a chore for me, crochet so many rows then weave ends in.
    When afghan is done only have a few ends to weave. No problem, it is attitude as you mention.

  4. I also used to hate those tails! I did not like weaving in ends at all, and didn’t like to make things that were in blocks or pieces
    that had to be put together.Now after a lot of years of crocheting I really appreciate the way my projects turn out when I take the extra time to weave in all those little ends.
    I recently made a baby afghan for my newest grandson, who was born in June. It was one of those you have to crochet a hundred and something blocks(they were diamonds instead though), and then you have to sew them all together.I thought it was going to take forever to finish, and got callouses on mt thumb and finger from sewing!It turned out really nice and I was very proud when I got it done! Perhaps also it is something that comes with age.
    Sorry for rambling!Love your Blog
    God Bless
    Ruby

  5. At peace with the pieces. That’s good.

    Wow, that pink afghan seems like it’s very pretty. Can you share the link to the pattern? TIA Lynn

Have you read?

Vintage Crochet Baby Dress Pattern Review

There is something especially charming about a vintage baby dress pattern, and this Crocheted Cutie Dress #3112 has all the details that make older crochet designs so appealing.

The dress features a neatly shaped bodice, short sleeves, contrast stripes and a full lace skirt with a scalloped finish. It has that classic heirloom look without feeling overly formal, which makes it suitable for birthdays, family photos, baby showers or simply as a special handmade outfit.

One of the nicest things about this design is the balance between the structured upper section and the much softer, more decorative skirt. The bodice is worked in a simple repeating texture, while the skirt opens into a detailed lace pattern that gives the dress plenty of movement and fullness. The white trim around the neckline, sleeves and hem also helps define the shape beautifully.

The pattern includes instructions for sizes 1 and 2, with the second size shown in parentheses throughout. As with many vintage patterns, the sizing does not line up neatly with modern age labels, so it is important to check the gauge and finished proportions rather than relying on the size number alone.

This would be best suited to an intermediate crocheter, or a confident beginner who is comfortable reading traditional pattern instructions. The design uses chain stitches, single crochet, double crochet, treble crochet, colour changes, shaping, repeated lace sections and separate pieces that are sewn together during finishing.

The sleeves and collar are made separately and attached to the completed bodice. The back is finished with three buttons, giving the dress a practical opening while keeping the front clean and decorative.

The original version uses pink and white mercerized crochet cotton, but the design works beautifully in more modern combinations too. Sage and cream give it a soft botanical feel, lemon and white make it fresh and summery, while orange and ivory create a much warmer retro look.

Because the pattern was originally written for vintage crochet cotton and a steel hook, I would strongly recommend making a gauge swatch before beginning. Modern threads and hook-sizing systems can vary, and the bodice needs to fit correctly before the lace skirt is added.

The professionally reformatted PDF is much easier to follow than an unedited scan. It keeps the original stitch counts and construction while improving spacing and readability. It also includes a modern mockup and the original vintage reference image, which is helpful when visualising the finished shape.

Overall, this is a lovely pattern for anyone who enjoys making vintage-inspired baby clothes. The lace skirt is the real highlight, but the striped bodice and matching collar give the finished dress a polished, complete look.