Crochet Post #343-346 & 347-350

Finishing up a few afghans that I have been working on for a long time!

Each afghan used 10 of the Breast Cancer Ribbon filet crochet squares and 10 plain squares in a coordinating variegated yarn.

and

I've been working on these for a couple of years so was glad to see them finished.  I will use one of them myself and am not sure about the other.  I am trying to decide whether to give it to someone or to auction it off to raise money for my annual 3Day walk sponsorship.

But anyway - below I will share the next 8 dishcloths in my 365 challenge series!

#343 Winter Greeting - pictured below on the upper left.  I LOVED doing this one... the directions were clear and simple and it worked up quickly.  The results you can see for yourself!

#344 Solar Eclipse Dishcloth - pictured on the upper right... again, simple clear instructions and worked up quickly.  Choice of colors is not a favorite for me - but I would definitely do this one again.

#345 Friendship Pineapple Greeting - Cute!!  Fun to do and easy - but I'm not sure I'd do it again.... unless I needed a quick gift at a luau-themed party?

#346 Sunburst Dishcloth - above on the bottom left.  I like this one but I couldn't get it to lie flat and that annoyed me.

The next four dishcloths are pictured below:

#347 Granny's Path Dishcloth - pictured below on the lower left.  As much as I lover granny squares, I don't usually like them as dishcloths.  Somehow the rectangular shape of this one feels more useful to me.  This cloth turned out absolutely lovely - my photos don't do it justice.  This pattern is a keeper!

#348 Penguin Dishcloth...... totally adorable!  This cloth just makes me smile :-)  It worked up well with a little extra stitching for the eyes and beak.  What a fantastic cloth for a child's bathtime!

#349  Snowman Dishcloth - on the upper left.  Another one that the photo doesn't show well enough.  The basic circle is quick and easy... the features are not too hard to figure out and then just a bit of stitching.  But he is so cute, he makes a great gift!

#350  Winter Sunrise Dishcloth - another round favorite for me!  I have truly enjoyed working up so many simple patterns.  This one is lovely.  I could see it done well in several color combinations.


All of these patterns are available free at Maggie Weldon's site www.bestfreecrochet.com in the dishcloth archives.

Crochet Post Dishcloths #327 -330 and # 331 - 334 and more!

I really love finishing up projects!  The afghan below is a free sampler pattern from Red Heart Yarns that was published on Maggie Weldon's site www..bestfreecrochet.com  

LOVED making it but then I am a sucker for sampler patterns :-)   I just wish it were bigger.  It's a great size for a THROW but I personally like a bigger afghan.

Anyway - I loved using colors from my stash and think it turned out pretty!  I just may make another one in a completely different palette just for fun... [SOMEDAY]

and a hat!  Another from Maggie Weldon's www.bestfreecrochet.com   Just the right size for a little one!   (and NOW I can give it to my grandson!)

I have actually been doing a lot of crocheting lately - and have loved finishing up projects and using up my stash as I go...  At this writing, I still have ONE more dishcloth I am stuck on.... but have been spending time crocheting cowls and hats for winter gifts!   More next week!


Dishcloths for this week are below:

#327 Whirligig Dishcloth  Pictured below on the upper left - This pretty cloth is done in Christmas colors.... quick to work up with easy stitches and clear instruction, this is a great beginner piece.  I enjoyed making it and could see making them in different color combinations for different holidays!

#328  Camo Print Dishcloth - pictured on the lower right.  Not quite camo - but a variegated similar colors, this is a pretty circular cloth.  I would be tempted to try it in a more floral color.  The pattern is lacy and would look striking in a solid.

#329  Simple Cro-Hook Dishcloth  Pictured above on the lower left.  I had fun doing this one but it took me WAY too long :-)  New technique with the hook on both ends... fun to LEARN!  Obviously I got messed up somewhere along the way because the pattern switched up in the middle.... still works fine as a dishcloth and not worth tearing out and starting over.  I did discover that this is probably not a hook / technique that will work well for me!

#330 Mini Pineapples Dishcloth If you look closely at the yellow variegated cloth, you can see little pineapples in the pattern.  I do enjoy trying new patterns and would definitely encourage new crocheters to test out these pattens! This particular pattern would make super afghan squares!


The next 4 dishcloths are pictured below:

# 331 Sock Dishcloth.. I bet you can pick this one out of the photo below! Easy to make and cute to look at.. but I have to ask WHY?  Yes, it is  dishcloth or washcloth... a strange shape but functional.... but seriously I don't know who I would give it to!  I did learn how to make a flat sock shape, though, in case I ever need to :-)

#332  Flower Scrubbie Dishcloth  pictured below on the lower right.  I have found making this type interesting.  This particular one was done by actually crocheting onto the scrubbie....  a serious PAIN.  Once that part was done, the pattern was pretty simple.  I like the concept of cloth and scrubbie but will have to test-drive it to see how it goes..... (certainly I won't have the ease of tossing it in the dryer after I wash it!)

#333 Tea Pot Dishcloth  Above on the upper left.... actually, I think it is a creamer!
    paired with
#334 Sugar Bowl Dishcloth
   These two are whimsical and fun and made me smile.  I enjoyed making these and think they would be super for tea or coffee drinkers.  I know I would smile when I used them to clean my kitchen!

Crochet Post #335-338 and #339 - 342 and more :-)

As I started to get back to my sewing projects - I found this pre-shirred fabric on clearance and decided to do up a couple of dresses for my girls!  Easy, cheap and quick success - my favorite way to do things :-)

I also completed another gift - one of my favorite baby girl projects... easy to do with beautiful results.... I really need to do a few of these to keep on hand for new babies :-)

Dishcloths for this week are pictured below:

#335 Tea Cup Dishcloth Pictured below on the upper right.  A companion to the sugar bowl and creamer in the last Crochet Post, this is adorable and easy to make!  A fun addition to a tea or coffee gift basket!

#336 Pink Pansy Dishcloth on the bottom right.  This one is really simple to make.. the base is double crochet with a nice edging and a flower that was intriguing to figure out.  This was a nice project to learn to make flowers with.  I think I would choose different colors if I did it again...

#337 Treble Textured Dishcloth pictured above on the bottom left.  I liked making this one because it is a little different from the ones I have been doing.  It has a nice texture for cleaning and the pattern would be good in many different colors.  I could also see this as an afghan square!

#338  Poinsettia In A Square Dishcloth Above on the upper left.  LOVE this one - a huge THUMBS UP from me :-)  The flower was a little challenging to figure out but once I did - it was totally worth it.  The results are stunning!  The pattern is also generic enough to use other colors to create a floral collection.  Definitely a FAVE!

The next 4 dishcloths are pictured below:

#339 Red & White Pinwheel Dishcloth  Pictured below on the upper left.  Wow!  This one drove me crazy!  It took a while to figure out the pattern and get in the groove... and then the rows with the red knots came along and were really challenging.  I'm still not sure I did it right.  Anyway... try it and see if you agree!  Not only will I not do it again, I need to give it away because it makes me aggravated to look at it!

#340 Little Black Purse Dishcloth  Cute and easy to make.... designed to go along with the black tie of a previous post Crochet  (and quilt) Post # 311-314 & 315-318   I am not sure how much I would like actually cleaning with either cloth but they DO make me smile... which would be a bonus while doing dishes!  Might be a good holiday hostess gift with a bottle of bubbly :-)

#341 Spider Lily Dishcloth  Pictured above on the upper right.  Unique and fun to figure out!  The spider lily is worked in the center in a raised stitch.  This one looks like it would be very functional - the raised flower would work well as a scrubber!  Definitely would do this one again :-)

#342  Indian Summer Dishcloth  Above on the bottom right.  This is another of the circular patterns that I enjoy doing.  The only thing I did not like - which might be me - is that I didn't quite get it to lie flat.  This indicates that I most likely did not follow the instructions and count properly!  It's pretty nonetheless and I will enjoy using this one in the summer / fall.

All of these patterns are available free from Maggie Weldon's site www.bestfreecrochet.com in the Nov and Dec 2011 archives as part of the 2011 Dishcloth challenge!  Thanks again to Maggie for a fantastic challenge and a lot of fun!

Crochet Post Dishclothes #319--322 & 323-326 and more!

In the efforts of cleaning out my stash....

 

Today I want to share a couple of scarves I finally finished up:

The free pattern is located here: 

Plush Woven Scarf

It seemed like a good idea at the time....  the pattern calls for bulky yarn but I thought it looked TOO bulky.. but in the interest of cleaning out my stash, I decided to try it according to the pattern AND according to me :-)   The scarf above is done in regular 4-ply yarn and the scarf below is done in bulky yarn

Both are pretty.... but BOTH are way too bulky for my taste.  They each took 3 full skeins of yarn so are heavy too.  Unless I hear from a reader who wants them..... they will probably both be headed for a homeless shelter where the weight and bulk will be much more appreciated!

BUT..... I AM 6 skeins lighter :-)

**********************

This week's dishcloths are pictured below:

#319 Watermelon Dress  pictured below on the bottom left... there are a few dresses in the dishcloth challenge collection.  They are made similarly - fairly simple and cute.  I think they would be a lot of fun for young girls or doll collectors!

#320  Moon Flower Dishcloth  Below on the upper right.... Another of the pretty round flowers that I appear to be partial to.  This one, like the others is quick, easy and pretty.  Two stitched back to back would make a great hot pad or trivet for the table.  It would be a quick and easy project to make a couple of dishcloths and couple of hot pads for a kitchen shower gift!

#321 The School Bus Driver - pictured above on the upper left.  Easy to make and adorable.  Of COURSE, knowing me, you know it sat in my sewing basket for a bit until I could get around to stitching on the embellishments (but if you look at the photo below, you can see that the bus had company!).  But it was totally worth the wait!  Now, if only I knew a school bus driver.....

#322  Sunshine Dress Dishcloth  pictured above.  Another of the little dress dishcloths... fun to make and adorable results!

The next 4 dishcloths are pictured below:

#323 Hexagon Crochet Dishcloth  Below on the bottom left  Would be pretty in several different color combinations.... this cloth uses primarily triple crochet stitches.  It is a great small project to teach this stitch and how to create a hexagon shape!

#324 Root Beer Crochet Dishcloth  Can you find it in the picture below?  Easy and cute... fun to do.. need to find a root beer lover....

#325 Thanksgiving Turkey Crochet Dishcloth  LOVE this turkey!!  It's a little more extra stitching than I wanted to do because it is made in a couple of parts... but the results are fantastic!  I think next year I will make some seasonal cloths for my grandchildren's houses... just for fun - and this turkey will be in the mix!

#326  Pumpkin Dishcloth  AND this pumpkin will go along with the turkey!  Absolutely adorable and fun to do!  I love this little guy...

ALl of these patterns are available FREE at Maggie Weldon's site www.bestfreecrochet.com  in the November 2011 archives as part of the 2011 Dishcloth Challenge.  I honestly have had a blast doing all of them!

Crochet (and quilt) Post # 311-314 & 315-318

Okay - so I am behind in sharing handwork with you but I guess it allows me time to photograph and write a little bit about finished items!  As you probably recall, I have had a lot of fun working with the tutorials from www.diaryofaquilter.com.  Today I am sharing a second table runner 

I showed it to you already previously but wanted you to see that it is actually finished (and was finished in time to use in September :-)

and a skirt:

The skirt makes me feel a little bit like a cross between a hippie (which I have been) and Mrs. Weasley (of Harry Potter fame)  But either way, it makes me smile - so it works for me.  I have yet to wear it in public but I do wear it around the house some!

It's also fun simply because I did not pay enough attention to the tutorial - the tutorial was for a GIRL'S skirt and called for 6 fabrics (10 panels).  In my infatuation with the process, I read 10 FABRICS... which ultimately worked FOR me.  As written, the skirt would have been way too short - so, doing it my way, I had enough fabric to make 2 tiers of rectangles and an extra set so that it goes around my waist too :-)  A quick, FUN project....  I look forward to making skirts for my little girls!

...and on to this week's dishcloths!

# 311 Flower in  Circle Dishcloth - So, so pretty!  This one made me smile while I made it... not to mention it uses just a teeny bit of the center 3 colors..... so the pleasure that I personally get in creating something out of the last bits is HUGE!  This is another of the easy-to-make, beautiful results cloths that I enjoy!

#312  Pansy Parade - pictured below on the upper right.  This is an easy attractive pattern that would show up better in a solid color yarn.  The rectangular shape is a nice change though not a fave of mine.  I have mixed feelings about the edging - I like the effects of the reverse single crochet but I don't like actually doing it.  Glad it was a small project!

#313 Golden Triangle  - Boy I was glad when this was finished!!  Perfect for someone who enjoys working with crochet thread, this is a very pretty triangle.  And, that is pretty much the best thing I can say :-)  I decided to use some metallic thread I had in my stash.. and it is definitely a pretty triangle but I am not at all sure what I will be able to do with it. It has the texture of a scrubby so it may be more useful than I anticipate.... NOT something I will do again though I WILL pull it out at Thanksgiving and use it for the holiday season and see how it goes :-)

#314  Tractor "John Deere" Dishcloth.  I bet you can guess which one this is in the photo above!   CUTE! and easy.... perfect for a John Deere lover (not me :-) - but I can totally see me pulling this out for a grandchild's bath!  I would do it again upon request or if I saw a need..

The following 4 dishcloths are pictured below:

#315 Black Tie Dishcloth - pictured at the bottom of the photo.  Easy and cute - certainly would make a fun gift!  I am not sure but what the cinch in the middle cuts down on its effectiveness as a dishcloth - but maybe not.  Definitely fun :-)  Probably not a repeat for me - unless a certain granddaughter needs a PINK one...

#316  Red Radiance Dishcloth - pictured below on the right side.  This one is unique and striking.  Not quite s simple as many of the others but not too difficult either.  I enjoy how elegant it looks!

#317 Red Roof Birdhouse Dishcloth - the opposite of elegant, this one is cute :-)  I'm afraid it looks a little more like a cyclops triangle so I might be tempted to add a bird or try different color combos... but it qualifies as easy to make and might be fun for a bird lover's gift basket!

#318 Red Anemone Dishcloth - pictured at the top of the above photo.  Pretty, pretty, pretty!  Definitely a repeat for me.. I can envision this in lots of different color combinations!

All of these dishcloth patterns are available free at Maggie Weldon's site
www.bestfreecrochet.com  in the November 2011 archives.

What are you working on this week?

Crochet (and Quilt) Post Dishcloths # 303 - 306 & 307-310

Hmmmm.... what kind of crafting have I been doing lately?    Mostly playing with fabric, I admit!    I worked on a summer table runner:

My personal challenge?  2 fabrics in here screamed SUMMER to me - the sandy-colored one with big shells and the bright blue gingham one with the bright watermelon slices.  Not much in the way of shared colors, the FUN for me is to dig through my scraps and find colors that tie them together.  I'm pretty proud of this one.

And then there was a tutorial on burp cloths....  These are simply diapers covered with a fabric that my daughter (aka MOM) likes.  These fabric scraps were in my stash from the table covers at my girl's wedding.... (that is how I knew she liked it :-)  Anyway, she promised to test how they work so I know whether to make more or not... it IS a pretty and an easy gift to work up!  I'm not sure you ever have enough burp cloths.

Hope you are having some happy crafting days!  Below are this week's dishcloth selections to share:

#303 Shells Galore Crochet Dishcloth - pictured on the upper right. This pattern is a little unusual in its construction but was fun to figure out.  It's a basic shell pattern that morphs into a granny type square.  I like the edging too... I am not sure I like it enough to do it again but it was a fun project!

#304  Easy as ...<<hdc>> Crochet Dishcloth - on the upper left. This pretty little sturdy dishcloth is simply half-double crochet, just like the name!  With a simple edging, it is a nice addition to a dishcloth collection

#305 - Marjorie Crochet Dishcloth pictured above on the lower left.  This dishcloth with the pink ribbon was named in honor of the designer's mother.  Simple double crochet with the ribbon worked separately and stitched on.  This one is a keeper for me :-) Especially with my personal goal of walking as many of the Breast Cancer 3Day locations as I am able!

#306 - Pink Piggy Crochet Dishcloth - this is another of the ADORABLE ones!  There are several in this dishcloth challenge that begin with a round base and then you crochet and add features to it.  Love this one :-)

The next 4 dishcloths are featured below:

#307 Ruffle Granny Crochet Dishcloth - below on the bottom left.  This one is exactly what it says it is - a granny square with a ruffled edging.  Quick to work up, a good size and texture AND pretty.  A winner, in my book!

#308 Scarecrow Crochet Dishcloth - Another adorable one! His hat is a little off - but that was me, not the pattern... I love the way this little guy works up and he is as sturdy as he is cute!

#309 Star Spangled Crochet Dishcloth - the small one above on the upper right.  This one works up like a granny square - only a pentagon shape instead.  I think it is a little small.. but could probably be enlarged by adding another round!

#310  Lacy Blue Crochet Dishcloth - Pictured above on the upper left.  Very pretty - not too difficult but a little time-consuming - this is made of thread instead of the usual cotton worsted used for most of the cloths.  It seems much more like a decorative doily to me than a cloth for washing.  I am glad I tried it but I don't think I'll do a repeat!

All of these patterns are from Maggie Weldon's 2011 Dishcloth Challenge - FREE at www.bestfreecrochet.com!

Crochet (and more!) Post - DIshcloths # 295-298 & 299-302

QUILTING:

I've been talking about doing more quilting (actually LEARNING about quilting) for quite a while.  You know I have a large hand quilting project that I can't seem to get cracking on.  I've done a little work on that but not enough to brag about!

But I did discover a super website that shares easy projects that you can see through from start to finish - mostly on the sewing machine.  It is called Diary of a Quilter - and has several tutorials that utilize scraps you probably have lying around...... (okay, I have lying around!)  And since one focus of 2012 is to USE UP.. I chose a table runner project to use some holiday fabrics.

This is Mischief, my helper :-)

 one of my favorite things to do in a quilting project is to pick 2 fabrics that don't seen to go together and make it happen!  In this case.. it is the wild purple with black cats and orange jack-o-lanterns... and the more muted harvest print with sage green and yellow/orange.  It is a lot of fun choosing fabrics that will tie two disparate prints together!

This project took less than a week working on it in bits and pieces as I had time..  I was so pleased that I decided that I had time to create and USE a summer version.... will share that one later!

Dishcloths # 295 through 298 are pictured below:

#295 Striped Rib Crochet Dishcloth - pictured below on the bottom right....  I love the feel of this one - thought when (WHEN) I make it again, I will probably make it a little bit wider to square up the shape!  Nice easy pattern for a beginner :-)

#296 Lilac Lace Crochet Dishcloth - pictured below on the upper lefthand side... this cloth is another easy pattern that is fairly easy.  I think I will do it again BUT not as a dishcloth.  I think I would like it better as an afghan square.


   

#297 - Rose in Bloom Crochet Dishcloth - pictured above on the upper right - Very nice, very simple.  Like most of the round ones, I would prefer them as hot pads (make two and sew them together) or trivets on the table

#298 - The Little Piggy Crochet Dishcloth - I hope you can figure out which one this is!  He was my favorite to do though I am not particularly a pig lover so probably won't use him myself.... but it worked up quickly and turned out really nice!

Below, we have #299 through #302

#299 Lacy Delights Crochet Dishcloth - pictured below on the lower right... Definitely NOT a fave!  Not that it is so difficult to do but it is a bit cumbersome, I can't get it to lie flat and it isn't that pretty!  That said - like the rest of this project, it is a good opportunity to practice skills both in crocheting AND in pattern deciphering!

#300 Cute Cupcake Crochet Dishcloth - really really easy and cute!.. Will definitely make one smile when doing dishes or washing babies!  I think that is one thing to consider while choosing a pattern to try....  these do not HAVE to be scrubby dishcloths!  Many of the patterns will make adorable washcloths for the kiddos.... or, as I mentioned before, afghan squares for a larger project in regular 4-ply worsted yarn.

#301 - Tramlines Crochet Dishcloth - While this one is easy and turns out pretty, I probably won't repeat it (unless, of course, I get the ITCH to do all the ones I didn't hate doing!  I can see me doing that with the leftover cotton yarn).  It will make a great addition to a gift basket though!

 #302 - Barnie Bear Crochet Dishcloth - cute, Cute, CUTE!  Easy and fun - just looking at him makes me smile :-)  I think I'd like to have him help me with my dishes :-)



Instructions for all these cloths are on Maggie Weldon's site  www.bestfreecrochet.com in the October 2011 archive

Crochet Post! #287 - 290 and #291-294

More baby things to share.....

Gifts for my daughter at her shower...

LOVED the way this log cabin pattern turned out!  I will definitely make more of these

NOT happy with the sweater / hat set... this is a 'never again' pattern :-)

..and washcloths... because there are never enough!

and on to dishcloths!


#287 Rudolph Crochet Dishcloth - This cloth is absolutely adorable!  The lighting in the photo doesn't do it justice.  I am not at all sure what I will use it for - somehow it doesn't feel like a dishcloth.. Rudolph is just too cute for that...  but I enjoyed making it... even the sewing part... the antlers are a little tricky to make but once I saw what I was doing, it made sense.

#288 Poinsettia Crochet Dishcloth - pictured below on the upper right, this cloth is a variation on a granny square.  It could easily be made in a variety of colors for a pretty floral gift basket!

#289 Candy Cane Blocks Crochet Dishcloth - Pictured underneath Rudolph on the upper left.  This one was really easy, looks nice and is a sturdy cloth.  I think I would like it better in different colors - I will definitely do it again but try for a different effect!

# 290 Basketweave Crochet Dishcloth - pictured above on the bottom right....  LOVE this one - both for ease of pattern and the final product!  It looks a lot trickier than it is and has a nice thick scrubby texture to it.

The next four dishcloths are pictured below:

#291 Very Berry Crochet Dishcloth - pictured on the upper right.  This is another easy pattern that turns out really nice.  I also love the pattern for dishcloths because the texture is nubby.

#292 - Frankie Frog Crochet Dishcloth - This one is for frog lovers!  It is simple to do - but like Rudolph above, is made in several pieces that need to be sewn on.  He is adorable though - and will make one of my grandchildren really happy!

#293 Granny Spokes Crochet Dishcloth - On the lower left, this is a granny square variation with a circular pattern in the center that becomes a square as you continue.  Simpler to do than it sounds, I think it turned out really pretty.

#294 Southwestern Crochet Dishcloth - This one looks like a flower :-)  I enjoyed working it up and will definitely make it again!

Crochet Post! Dishcloths #279-282 and #283-286 and more!

I am working on lots and lots of baby stuff again :-) These two little sets are representative of the ones I am making.  They don't have the booties with them because I needed to send the little blue sweater & hat to its new home right away.  I will send the booties later when I finish them.

 I have put the martial arts afghans away for a little while so I can work on all my new baby things.  I have several things on the agenda - it will be a while before I can share any finished objects :-) especially since the booties will live in my sewing basket for a bit before I wind them up!

I still have ONE more dishcloth to do and TWO to finish stitching before I finish the whole 365 dishcloth challenge :-) (Maggie Weldon's 2011 Dishcloth a Day Challenge at www.bestfreecrochet.com)  All the patterns are still in the archive if you find any you like.

The one I am stuck on is called the Crocodile Stitch.... I will have to put down baby sweaters for a few days to figure the thing out!

Dishcloths for the week are below:


#279 Christmas Flower Crochet Dishcloth - pictured below on the bottom left, this pretty variation on the granny square works up quickly and easily.  It's lovely in Christmas colors but I think it would make a really pretty scrap afghan!

#280 Shell Variation Crochet Dishcloth - pictured below on the upper left in a baby pastel variegated cotton yarn, this is another pretty pattern that works up quickly.  I didn't like the way the border is done.... or maybe it's me, but I couldn't quite get it to lie flat.  I think I would use the pattern again - but probably for a long scarf.  I think that would do better than a flat dishcloth.

#281 Liberty Square Crochet Dishcloth - pictured above on the upper right.  This one is a bit unusual in the pattern stitch - done in alternating rows of double and single crochet.  It adds an extra level of interest with variegated yarn - but I think it would be pretty with different colors on each row too!

#282 Linked Leaves Crochet Dishcloth - above on the lower right.  Oh my - I did not like this one!  I almost always enjoy figuring out a new pattern, so that part was okay.  That said - once I figured it out - I don't like it.  It stretches too much.. I think it will snag when I try to clean with it. 

The next four cloths are shown below:

#283 Berry Bushes Crochet Dishcloth - pictured below on the upper right.  I LOVE this pattern for dishcloths!  Easy to do, it's nice and nubby.. exactly right for the product :-)  That said, I messed up somewhere around the middle and lost track of stitches.  It's not exactly square.. but will definitely serve the purpose... and it's worth trying again to make for gifts :-)

#284  Candy Corn Crochet Dishcloth... hmmm..... I bet you can guess this one :-)  Definitely easy and cute and will be fun to make for the grandkids!

#285  Orange Blossom Crochet Dishcloth - pictured above on the lower right.  This one shows how much a small applique can do!  This is nothing but an orange circle with a flower applique - and it's adorable!

#286  Christmas Star Crochet Dishcloth - another FAVE!  I found this pattern worked up really quickly once I laid the foundation.  An easy, impressive gift idea :-)

Have fun crocheting!

Crochet Post! Dishcloths #271-274 and 275-278 and more....

I don't know if it is the sunshine or the renewed interest in being outside in the garden, but I am feeling so much better about most things in my life!  I'm not sure I am getting more accomplished - but I am more philosophical about it.... and am definitely spending more time enjoying it!

I think I told you I finished up an afghan project I've been working on for a while... and I can honestly say that I am glad to see the end of it :-)  It was an interesting challenge and I did learn how to join granny squares without stitching them - and I will use this technique as often as I can!  I can also say without a doubt that sock yarn is not my chosen yarn :-)  Nor are these colors ones that I would choose.....

 BUT... I made it from a pattern a friend sent..... FOR that friend... and I made one for myself so that I can think of her.  It was a FUN thing to do simply because I wanted to - and that is a blessing all in itself :-)

Other than this, I am working on a couple more granny afghans in martial arts colors.... and I have 11 babies to create for this year!  A couple have already been born (sorry, friends) but most are due between August and October.... so I gathered up several colors of Pound of Love pastels and am working on several hat/sweater/bootie sets for the newborns.  For those babies who are already here, I hope to finish up an afghan or get a 12-month sweater/hat done for this winter!  Planning is happening!  

On to the dishcloths:


#271  Summer Lime Lines Crochet Dishcloth pictured below on the upper right - I enjoyed doing this one... it has a nice nubby texture and was quick to work up... it will be a nice complement to a gift basket - and would be fun to do in different colors for friends

#272 - Puff Stitch Crochet Dishcloth - below on the upper left...  I don't mind doing puff stitches, though they are not my favorites... but I didn't care for the way they turned out on this cloth.  It's okay but not a repeat

#273 Tea Pot Crochet Dishcloth - can you find it??  This is a cute cloth to give to a tea drinking friend.  It's just cute - and easy to do :-)

#274 Kitten Crazy Crochet Dishcloth  Bottom left  Supposedly this pattern looks like little kittens.. and I confess that their cloth resembles kittens more than mine... I THINK because of the variegated thread confusing the issue.  Still a pretty cloth and good instructions!


the next 4 cloths are pictured below:


#275 Wavy Ripple Crochet Dishcloth - pictured below on the bottom left - this one was fun to do!!  I had to pay attention.... and used mostly scraps for it.. but it turned out cute and makes me smile :-)

#276 Purple Puffs Crochet Dishcloth - below on the bottom right.  So I had to go BUY more yarn for this one... I could hardly use any color BUT purple with a name like this :-)  I like these puffs a little more than on the last cloth.  My main concern though is that one of the threads will pull and the pattern will mess up... especially if this is used as a cleaning cloth.

#277 Dips and Stripes Crochet Dishcloth - pictured above on the upper left.  I used the last bit of a variegated color & the only color I had at the time to go with it... an interesting pattern with a good texture to it.. I think it is a good basic cloth

#278  White Diamonds Crochet Dishcloth  Pictured above on the upper right.  This one is really pretty and was easy to do....  I like it but am not sure I like it as a dishcloth.  This is another of those that I think would make a great afghan square!  (especially for an Elizabeth Taylor fan :-)

Crochet Post! Dishcloths #239-242 and 243-246

I have been working like crazy on these dishcloths.... I can see the end!  I have fewer than 20 left if you count the ones in my sewing basket waiting for me to stitch them!  And I am glad :-)  I have a pile of requests waiting to fill over the next few months.

Lots of baby boys on the way - several of whom have older sibling who need to feel the love too :-)  So I can see that I will have a lot to share here if I can get myself writing again!  I am not being very productive in life - and maybe the writing (or lack thereof) is why - I am not sure but hopefully I am pulling myself together again!   Anyway - the week's cloths to share are below!

#239  Florets Crochet Dishcloth - pictured below on the bottom left.;  I apologize for the poor photo.. the dark blue cloth doesn't show up well against my dark green background.  The pattern is fairly easy to figure out and make - a pretty addition to a gift but probably not the best dishcloth.

#240 Bayberry Crochet Dishcloth - pictured on the bottom right.  I had fun with this one.  Not too easy - but clear instructions and predictable repeat pattern.  The bobbles make things interesting and I got to use up some odds and ends....  The resulting cloth is sturdy and will be good for its intended purpose.  I would do this one again!

#241 Shells Crochet Dishcloth - pictured on the upper right... another pretty one.  It's hard to see in the picture because of the dark background - but it is a lacy shell pattern that worked up quickly.

#242 - Lazy Daisy Crochet Dishcloth  LOVED the final product!  It wasn't that hard to do but the edging was annoying to do :-)  It is worked on top of the flat daisy and is a little tricky.  Looks great though.. I might do again but would have to think about it!

The next 8 cloths are in the photo below:

#243 Plain Peach Crochet Dishcloth - pictured below on the upper right.  This is a fairly simple pattern which makes a basic dishcloth.  Functional, not fancy but a pattern that works quite well!

#244 Soul Heart Crochet Dishcloth - on the upper left... this was a fun cloth to make.  Not too difficult and a fun shape to create - it's a good-sized cloth.  Also a good one for scraps - Definitely a repeat performer!

#245 Daisy Crochet Dishcloth - pictured above n the lower right.  I really enjoy making some of these cloths!  The flowers in a circle are so satisfying because they work up quickly and are pretty as you do them!  The only trouble I had with this one is keeping it flat... it seems to want to ruffle a little but it is really pretty anyway.

#246 Diamond Filet Crochet Dishcloth - I liked doing this one too.  Filet is always fun as it unfolds.... I am not sure how well this will work as a dishcloth but I can visualize it in a panel of an afghan!


www.bestfreecrochet.com   #239 - 243 are in the August archive - #244-246 in September

Crochet Post 231-234 and 235-238

Wow - it's been a while since I posted my dishcloths!  I did some Easter goodies for my grandgirls - I think I posted those.... but since then - it's been dishcloths and dishcloths and dishcloths!  I am ready to be finished with them :-)  Finished with the project that is - I am still enjoying the quick little crochet ventures.... this is a super way to try out new stitches and ideas!  But what am I going to do with 365 dishcloths??

That should be my next challenge!

At any rate - I will begin again :-)

#231  Rickrack Crochet Dishcloth - pictured below on the bottom left.. this is a combination of stitches with a really pretty effect.  The photo doesn't do it justice.

#232 Tannenbaum Crochet Dishcloth - I bet you can figure out which one is the Christmas tree :-)  One thing I can say after all these cloths is that I am getting quite proficient with crocheting in a couple of colors and following a chart.  I can also say that I don't want to do a lot of them!  It really does make a pretty cloth though - and would make a nice afghan if you really liked doing them...

#233 Christmas Wreath Crochet Dishcloth - pictured above on the upper right.  I had fun doing this one!  It worked up quickly and looks adorable.  I could see doing a bunch of these as Christmas gifts in varying combinations of red, white and green!

#234 Red Apple Crochet Dishcloth - above on the upper left.  All the comments I made about the charts are still true BUT if one had a favorite teacher, this would be worth the work!  The finished cloth is absolutely adorable.   I would definitely consider doing this one again for a special someone.

The next 8 cloths are pictured below:

#235 Summer Shells Crochet Dishcloth - below on the bottom right.  I LOVE the color combinations I chose for this one.. really just using up scraps and coordinating colors... doesn't match my kitchen at all but makes me feel like summer :-)  It wasn't hard to make but I don't think it's my favorite pattern... the cloth is nice and thick so I am pleased with the end product.

#236 Tropical Breeze Crochet Dishcloth - on the upper left... more juggling with the scraps.. another nifty pattern to try.  Not really difficult but not a fave... the cloth turned out cute though!

#237 Lacy Shells Crochet Dishcloth - pictured above on the upper right.  This one was easy to do - and quick - and turned out gorgeous!  The BUT is that I'm not at all sure it will be a good dishcloth :-)  In a different size, it would make a fantastic afghan panel.  It will make a nice addition to a kitchen gift package though.. and may serve someone else just fine.

#238 Flower Child Crochet Dishcloth - on the bottom left.  LOVED doing this one - it is like a granny square.  Quick to work up - and very satisfying.  I will probably use up a lot of scraps making more of them.... Two of them stitched together would also make a good hot mat for the table.

These cloths are still available on www.bestfreecrochet.com and are located in the August 2011 archive

Thrive in Five Update Day 30 & Crochet Dishcloths 207-210 and 211-214

*****Thrive in Five Update Day 30*****

Today I had some really disturbing personal news that will shake up our lives all around.  I am really upset and lay in bed this morning thinking about it all.

Now I know that we all have things happen... and I know that when changes occur, life gets really confusing.  It's hard to see whether BIG changes are good or bad sometimes.  And I trust that God has us in very capable hands... and we will be fine.  But I still feel that knot in the pit of my stomach.... and I felt myself sinking into that depressed well that will not allow you to get out of bed.

You know what I mean... when there is no blood in your veins... and you just can't do it....   and the thing that got me out of bed today.... was a tiny but determined voice saying "Get thee behind me, Satan!  I will not allow you to keep me down today."  Wow... where did she come from?

That voice came from me.   That voice has been re-born in the last month and will help me stay on this journey.  That voice reminded me that after all... whatever happens now, my life will pretty much look the same... there will still be laundry to do and food to prepare.... money to save and things to clean... family to love and take care of.... it's all good.. and we are part of a plan.  And that is enough - just a little deep breathing and some long walks to take the place of the dorito diving and other things that I used to soothe my angst with!

This is the last official day for Thrive in Five - Take 1 - and the end of my blogging about it!  I am excited to see the progress I have made and am ready to start over on Day 1 with the principles and action steps that Hannah has provided.  I am sure that as I travel on this journey, I will receive more and more insight and achieve the health, strength and physical size I am supposed to have!

Remember you can purchase this health coaching system at www.hannahkeeley.com

..... and
DISHCLOTHS :-)

These are all from Maggie Weldon's 2011 dishcloth Challenge at www.bestfreecrochet.com

#207 Textured Stripes Crochet Dishcloth - pictured below on the lower left... the pink, white & green stripes.  I really enjoyed doing this one - the nubby texture is nice - and fun to do!  I think I would do it in one color next time though - it would work up a little quicker!

#208 Shells and Lace Crochet Dishcloth - on the lower right in yellow and white.  I have to admit... I detested doing this one!  It took me forever to figure it out and I'm not sure YET that I got it right.  This is one of the few that I was really glad to see finished!

#209 Ruffled Square Crochet Dishcloth - pictured above on the upper right... A fun granny variation that was fun to do - I like the lacy edging

#210 Cluster Rows Crochet Dishcloth - done in the red, white and blue on the upper left.  This one was unusual but not hard.... I think it's a repeat - though I will add an edging to my next one!

The next four cloths are in the picture below

#211 Beach Party Crochet Dishcloth - pictured below on the lower left... this one turned out pretty, though mine does not look very much like the photo with the instructions :-)  It's a great cloth though with good texture!

#212 Cluster Bobble Crochet Dishcloth is the blue on on the bottom right.  This is another pretty one that is fun and easy to do.  I recommend it!

#213 Shapely Shells Crochet Dishcloth - pictured above on the upper right... another high success pretty dishcloth.  It would be gorgeous in a gift basket!

#214 Filet Cluster Crochet Dishcloth is on the upper left.  I enjoyed doing this one as an experience.. and I like the cloth.. but am not thrilled with it.  Only THRILLS get repeats :-)

Crochet Post! Dishcloths #199-202 & 203-206 and Thrive in Five Day 23

 *****Thrive in Five Update Day 23*****

I am feeling fine..... just crazy busy today!   I listened to the audio about the importance of cardio exercise... and will start thinking about how to increase HEART-PUMPING movement to help cleanse toxins and keep me GOING!  But I am afraid that THINKING is all I am going to be doing today..... except for 20 jumping jacks whenever I think of it :-)

I timed it once - I can do 40 jumping jacks in one minute..... so 20 jumping jacks takes 30 seconds.... I have no excuse for not doing 20 jumping jacks several times during the day... just have to think about it!

*****

Don't you love the human brain?  Since I am going out of town tomorrow evening for a couple of days ... and I will be running errands all during the day tomorrow ...... I am running around like a chicken with my head cut off today and.... all of a sudden, there is an urgency to paperwork and chores... and well.. you get it...

so here's the story... I am working on laundry... folding it and thinking... I have those bills to pay, some bread to bake, I'm behind in my blog, there are some ice cream bites in the freezer... go get one.. it's only 5 steps away... WHAT???? double take!  Where did that come from?

It's so subliminal that it's unfair.. I'm not even hungry!

VERY IMPORTANT NOTE:  I am becoming more and more mindful of how I move through my life.  And THAT is how I will become fit and healthy!

Thrive in Five by Hannah Keeley is giving me the tools and the confidence to take charge (and let God help!)  I am NOT a victim to the ravenous beast who tears into dorito bags and leaves me helpless in its wake.....  I am a strong confident purposeful woman.. and God has plans for me.

I also know that my children are watching.  Just because they moved out, doesn't mean they aren't still watching and learning from everything I do!  I want my girls to see my victory so they know that they can WIN this health/food/exercise battle too - and they can learn HOW.

******************

 Crochet projects finished this week:

Little Red Riding Hoods for my two favorite girls....

free instructions on the Red Heart website.  Click on the link above. 


and 2 hats from Maggie Weldon's 2012 Challenge :-)

#7 and #3..... I will probably keep the pattern for #7, the one on the left.  I liked doing that one - and can use up some of the smaller skeins of bulky yarn I have on hand.


Dishcloths for the week:

#199 Holiday Ruffles Crochet Dishcloth - pictured below on the bottom left.... a chance to try a new technique!  This one calls for an afghan hook... something that I own for some reason but have never used.  After a bit of research on the internet, I learned that the stitch is now called the Tunisian stitch (back in the dark ages when I learned to crochet, it was called the afghan stitch).... and I figured out how to do it.  It's not too difficult and is really pretty.  The cloth is thick and absorbent too!

#200  Wide and Narrow Pathways Crochet Dishcloth - pictured on the lower righthand side of the photo below.  Using front and back post double crochets, it has beautiful vertical ridges.  It is really pretty and unusual.  Thumbs up!

#201 African Sunset Crochet Dishcloth - pictured on the upper left of the photo above.  Another granny variation, it worked up quickly and I particularly liked the colors :-)

#202  Peach Delight Crochet Dishcloth - pictured on the upper right.  This one is a lot prettier than the photo shows!  And it's fun if you are a granny square lover like me :-)  It has a pretty flower in the center and an easy edging.

The next 8 dishcloths are pictured below:

#203  Seagulls Crochet Dishcloth - on the lower left in the photo below.  While I am not sure this will be my favorite cloth to make..... it is by far and away my favorite cloth!  It is so incredibly creative with the sand, surf and sky - and makes me smile every time I look at it!  I will definitely make more of these :-)

#204 Tradewinds Crochet Dishcloth - pictured on the lower right.  Easy like a granny square with pretty ruffles worked on top.  Definitely a do again!

#205 Shells & Filet Crochet Dishcloth - pictured on the upper left of the photo above.  This one turned out really pretty but was a little tricky to figure out.

#206 Thirteen Grannies in a Square Crochet Dishcloth - on the upper right.  While I didn't care for the extra work stitching this one together, I LOVE the result!  All those tiny granny squares with the flower in the center are really pretty!  This cloth would make an impressive gift.

The patterns are available on www.bestfreecrochet.com - these are archived in July 2011.