Crochet

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Light And Lovely Spring Crochet

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cro necklace 1213

I’ve seen necklaces like this before but have never seen instructions for creating one for myself.  I think this would be perfect for a special touch for Spring.  It would also be especially lovely to match a shawl or cap.  And, no, it’s not too early to think about Spring in the first weeks after Christmas and New Year!  This is the perfect time to evaluate your wardrobe and see where you might like to fill in some missing pieces or perk up some of those old outfits.

Shemi Dixon has created this particular necklace and offers her free pattern and tutorial here.  While she shows it in a ladder-type yarn, giving it an especially airy appearance, I think it would work well with other types of yarn also – especially ribbon types yarn.  I happen to have a single ball of a ‘shoelace’ type yarn that appears to have been tie-dyed.  I’m thinking this necklace would be a perfect use for that single skein of very pretty yarn.  It’s in pinks and blues so would look good with a pink tee shirt for me this Spring matched with a pair of jeans.

ADDENDUM:

Thanks to Barb Grenier for offering these sites for obtaining the type of yarn used in this project:

http://www.ehow.com/how_4854601_make-trellis-yarn-necklace.html

http://grammiepammie.wordpress.com/crocheted-necklace-from-trellis-ribbon/

Comments

  2. Marie,
    It’s called ‘ladder yarn’ and has been widely available at stores like Joann and Michael’s. You might look online.
    jd

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.