Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

Crochet Link – Link To Link Party

by

Link parties are cropping up all over the net, so I thought I’d host one here.  This one is limited to crochet – and to your original design(s).  You don’t need to have a pattern available – although everyone will ask!  The idea is for us to see all the wonderful crochet designs that are being created daily in the family rooms and kitchens and waiting rooms all over the world!  I know you have them, those things you’ve dreamt up yourself, freeformed, or dramatically altered from an existing pattern.  If you did start with a published pattern (free or not), please credit the original designer.

So here’s your chance to grab your few minutes of internet fame!  In the Comments Section below, just post a link to your design.  It must have a picture.  Otherwise how will we be able to see how cool it is?  So, get busy photographing and posting.  I can’t wait to see all the crochet goodies.

The doily pictured here is NOT my own design, but it is Sheila of Sheila’s Schnauzzie’s original pattern, so I’m posting it here for her – because it’s my favorite doily pattern ever!  I’ve made a bunch of doilies, but not original designs.  To get to this pattern (only free until about June, 2012), go to the page, then scroll down to Pond Lilly No. 1 .  Hope you enjoy making it as much as I did!

Now, it’s your turn.  Post away!

Comments

  8. a few things I’ve designed, and more I am working on, problem is, I don’t have a website, a blog or anything like that. Wouldn’t even know where to begin. Another problem is trying to the upkeep, since I really don’t like being on computer that much, and having to write something daily, Yikes, all my free time would go to the blog, and not crocheting. Also, having to take pictures and post them to the blog, another thing I don’t know how to do.

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.