Crochet

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FIRST YOU TAKE A …………..THEN YOU CROCHET A ……..

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Isn’t that a great headline?  First you do what?  Well, back on the theme of recycling/repurposing, I ran across a couple of re-fashion sites.  These struck my fancy since I recently attended the Green With Envy craft show here in St. Louis where every item for sale or display was made with recycled (upcycled) materials.  There seems to be a theme here…

Dolin O’shea has a nice tutorial about making tee-shirt yarn and using that to re-fashion a cute tank top.

http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2009/05/refashioned_crochet_embellishe.html

Then, I found this idea which I actually like better.  This idea can be used for any number of garments:

http://skyturtle.wordpress.com/2009/06/20/tank-top-crochet-refashion-how-to/

This idea I may have shown you before.  I’ve done the same thing with sweatshirts too.  Take a pullover and convert it into a cardigan using crochet to edge and embellish.  It’s very simple.  There’s a tutorial on this blog:

http://www.sarahjoaustin.com/refashioning-old-misfit-sweaters-into-cute-crocheted-cardigans/

Using these same ideas, you can re-fashion any number of otherwise throw-away garments into ones you can wear and enjoy.  Want capris or yoga pants?  Take a pair of thin sweats or other lightweight knits and cut off at the length that’s right for you.  Edge with a cute row or two of crochet.  Have a tank that your kid has outgrown?  Take it and a piece of fabric or the skirt from a different dress, and crochet them together to create a new dress.  These ideas will save you money, create a look that’s unique, and soothe your creative urges.  Go for it.  Not much to lose.

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Comments

  2. What great and simple ways to re-purpose old clothing! I’ve actually got a bag of stuff going to goodwill right now, I think I’ll have to go through it and see if there’s anything I want to keep to try your ideas out on. Thanks!

Have you read?

Cozy Up Your Holidays with This Stunning Christmas Blanket!

 

If you’re anything like me, you know the best Christmas gifts are the handmade ones that come from the heart. That’s why I’m featuring this gorgeous Christmas blanket nice and early—because it’s the perfect project for anyone wanting to get a head start on their holiday gift list.

This blanket is not just festive; it’s a true work of art. The intricate design is cozy and cheerful, blending classic holiday motifs with a modern touch. Whether you’re planning to drape it over your couch for a warm and welcoming vibe or gift it to someone special, it’s sure to become a cherished seasonal favorite.

The pattern is clear and easy to follow, making it a joy to crochet, even for those of us who like to sneak in a few stitches while sipping cocoa by the fire. Bonus: starting now means you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the process without any last-minute stress.

So, grab your favorite yarn, settle into your comfiest chair, and let’s get a jump on the holidays together. Trust me, this blanket will be the star of your Christmas decor or gift-giving lineup.

Crocheting bobbles can add a beautiful, textured detail to your projects, but mastering them takes a little practice. Here are some handy tips to make your bobble crochet journey smooth and enjoyable:

A bobble stitch typically involves working several partial double crochet (dc) stitches (or other specified stitches) into the same stitch, leaving the last loop of each on the hook.

Once you’ve completed the required number of partial stitches, yarn over and pull through all the loops on the hook to finish the bobble.
Yarn Weight: A smooth yarn helps you see your stitches better. Avoid fuzzy or textured yarns until you’re comfortable with the technique.
Hook Size: Use the recommended hook size for your yarn. A slightly larger hook can make it easier to pull through multiple loops.

Maintain an even tension while making the partial stitches to avoid overly tight or loose bobbles.
If your bobbles don’t “pop,” try crocheting a little more loosely when making the partial stitches.

After completing the stitch, use your finger to gently push the bobble through to the right side of your work, ensuring it sits prominently.

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