Three Way Afghan (Baby, Table Runner, Mats)

By Berta Gilholm

Take one pattern using the same leftover materials and by making it a little smaller or larger create several different gifts for family or friends.  You can make a Table Mat Afghan, a Table Runner Afghan or a Baby Boy/Girl Afghan with the following pattern.

Materials: Leftovers, any color of your choice (A) light (B) dark (C) medium.

(A) 6 skeins of Lion Brand Vanna's Choice, Worsted Weight #4 100% acrylic, 2.5 oz/70 g - 121 yds/111mm, 501 Vanilla Twist
(B) 1 skein of Red Heart Super Saver, Worsted Weight #4 100% acrylic, 7 oz/198 g - 364yds/333mm, 7365 Coffee Café
(C) 1 skein of (very old from 1988) Lee Wards Orlon Sayelle, Worsted Weight #4 100% Orlon, 3.5 oz/99 g - 235yds/333mm, 1069 Dark Williamsburg Blue. Love this color/no longer available.
"For a girl use pink in place of the blue".
Crochet Hook size US J/10, 6mm.
Yarn Needle
Note: The Baby Afghan is worked in three panels which are then joined together to form one piece. Two stripes of open weave stitches are created in each panel with skip stitches for weaving in chain stripes vertically, then a border is worked around the whole joined piece to finish. The Table Runner is just one single panel from the Baby Afghan and the Mat is ½ of a panel with border.
Weave in ends as work progresses. Ch 2L counts as first stitch of row unless otherwise indicated.
Approximate Finished Size:  Sizes are approximate.
Baby Afghan = 40 inches wide x 45 inches Long.
Afghan Runner = 13 inches wide x 30 inches long.
Afghan Mat = 13 inches wide  x  15 ½ inches long.
Abbreviations: Ch = chain, Ch 2L = chain 2 loosely, Dc = double crochet, FO = fasten off, Jwslst = join with slip stitch in top of beginning stitch of current row,  Rnd = round, Sc = single crochet, Slst = slip stitch, St = stitch Yo = yarn over.
Special stitch and Instructions:
Dc2t = double crochet two stitches together - Yo, go through next st, yo, pull up a loop, go through next st, yo pull up a loop, yo pull through 3 loops on hook, yo pull through last 2 loops on hook.  
Color Code = (A) Vanilla Twist (B) Coffee (C) Williamsburg Blue
Instruction/Baby Afghan:
Panel:  Make 3.
With (A) Ch 31,
Row 1: Sc in second ch from hook and each ch across, turn (30 sc)
Row 2 through Row 4: Ch 2 L, dc in next st and in each st across, turn (30 dc)
Row 5: Ch 2 L, 1 dc in each of next 5 dc, ch 1, skip next dc, 1 dc in each of next 2 dc, ch 1, skip next dc, 1 dc in each of next 10 dc, ch 1, skip next dc, 1 dc in each of next 2 dc, ch 1, skip next dc, 1 dc in each of next 6 dc, turn (26 dc + 4 ch spaces)
Row 6: Ch 2 L, 1 dc in each of next 5 dc, ch 1, skip next ch, 1 dc in each of next 2 dc, ch 1, skip next ch, 1 dc in each of next 10 dc, ch 1, skip next ch, 1 dc in each of next 2 dc, ch 1, skip next ch, 1 dc in each of next 6 dc, turn, (26 dc + 4 ch spaces)
Row 7 through Row 54 : Repeat Row 6,
Row 55 through Row 57: Ch 2 L, dc in next st and in each st across including ch spaces, turn (30 dc)
Row 58: Ch 1, Sc in each dc across, FO and weave in ends (30 sc)
Panel Border:
Join (B) in any short end corner,
Rnd 1: Ch 3, 1 dc, ch 1, 2 dc in same space(corner made), *(1 dc in each of next 28 st), **((2 dc , ch 1, 2 dc) in next st (corner made)); ***(working down long side - "4 dc evenly spaced in next 2 row ends",  Dc2t in next row end", Repeat from " to " all the way down side to last 4 row end st's - 1dc in next 3 st), Repeat ** for corner,  Repeat * for other short end, Repeat ** for corner, Repeat *** for long side, jwslst, FO (B) (258 dc + 4 corner sp) 
Join (C) in any ch 1 sp of short end corner,
Rnd 2: Ch 3, 1 dc, ch 1, 2 dc in same space(corner made), *1 dc in each dc across to next corner, (2 dc , ch 1, 2 dc) in next ch 1 sp (corner made), Repeat from * 2 times, 1 dc in each dc across to corner,  jwslst, FO (C) (268 dc + 4 corner sp) 
Join (B) in any ch 1 sp of short end corner,
Rnd 3: Repeat pattern for Rnd 2, FO (B) (278 dc + 4 corner sp) 
Join panels together vertically using (B) and a whip stitch, FO weave in ends.
Afghan Top & Bottom Borders:
Top:
Join (A) in first dc after ch sp in the corner of one end (working across the 3 joined panels horizontally),
Row 1: Ch 3, 1 dc in next 37 dc, *1 trc in next 2 joined seam stitches,1 dc in next  37 dc, Repeat from * one more time, FO (A) (111 dc + 4 trc)  Turn,
Row 2: Join (B) in last st, Ch 3, 1 dc in next 114 stitches across, FO (B) (115 dc)  Turn,
Row 3: Join (C) in last st, Ch 3, 1 dc in next 114 stitches across, FO (C) (115 dc)  Turn,
For Rows 4 through 7: Repeat  Row 3 with the following colors - (4) B (5) A (6) B (7) C
Row 8:  Join B in last st, Ch 3, 1 dc in next 114 stitches across, turn (115 dc)
Row 9: Ch 1, 1 sc in next 114 dc, FO weave in ends
Bottom:
Using the same color sequence, Repeat Rows 1 through Row 5 of Top then repeat Row 8 and Row 9 of Top, FO weave in ends.

Instructions/AfghanTable Runner: 

(Make 1)
Make 1 Panel of the Baby Afghan including panel border, weave in ends.
You can do 1 more repeat of round3 using the border panel but, change the stitch to chain 1 and  single crochet.

Instructions/AfghanTable Mat: (Make 4)

Using the Panel pattern from the Baby Afghan as follows:
With (A) Ch 31,
Row 1 through Row 26:  Repeat Row 1 through Row 26 of  Afghan Baby Panel.
Row 27 through Row 29: Ch 2 L, dc in next st and in each st across including ch spaces, turn (30 dc)
Row 30: Ch 1, Sc in each dc across, FO and weave in ends (30 sc)

Mat Panel Border:
Basically the same as panel border except much shorter.
Join (B) in any short end corner,
Rnd 1: Ch 3, 1 dc, ch 1, 2 dc in same space(corner made), *(1 dc in each of next 28 st), **((2 dc , ch 1, 2 dc) in next st (corner made)); ***(working down long side - "4 dc evenly spaced in next 2 row ends",  Dc2t in next row end", Repeat from " to " all the way down side to last 4 row end st's - 1dc in next 4 st), Repeat ** for corner,  Repeat * for other short end, Repeat ** for corner, Repeat *** for second long side, jwslst, FO (B)  
Join (C) in any ch 1 sp of short end corner,
Rnd 2: Ch 3, 1 dc, ch 1, 2 dc in same space(corner made), *1 dc in each dc across to next corner, (2 dc , ch 1, 2 dc) in next ch 1 sp (corner made), Repeat from * 2 times, 1 dc in each dc across to corner,  jwslst, FO (C)   
Join (B) in any ch 1 sp of short end corner,
Rnd 3: Repeat pattern for Rnd 2, FO and weave in ends.

Beanie Brown for Drew

Berta Gilholm

There is a really great knit and crochet designer that I follow. His name is Drew Emborsky. He has a site call  www.thecrochetdude.com ; he's very talented and I love his pattern books.
This cap went to one of his charities along with 20 others.
 

Materials:
Coats and Clarks, Crème de La Crème, worsted weight 100% Combed Cotton,
(A) 1 skein - 0331 Fudge 2.5 oz/70gm
(B) 1 skein - 0930 Browntones 2 oz/56.7gm 
Crochet Hook US J10/6mm
Yarn Needle

Size: Adult, approximately 21 inches circumference (for a smaller or larger size change hook)

Abbreviations: Ch = chain, Dc = double crochet,  Hdc = half double crochet, FO = fasten off, Jwslst = join with slip stitch in top of beginning stitch of current row,  Rnd = round, Sc = single crochet, Slst = slip stitch, St = stitch.

Note: Weave in ends as you work. Ch 2 counts as hdc, Ch 2 loosely counts as first dc.
Special stitches:
Hdcdec = half double crochet decrease (yo, pull up a loop in next st (3 loops), yo pull up a loop in next st, yo pull through all 5 loops on hook).
Dcdec = double crochet decrease (yo, pull up a loop in next st, yo pull through 2 loops on hook, yo pull up a loop in next st, yo pull through 2 loops on hook, yo pull through 3 loops on hook).                                                                                 Top of Hat - Leaf are

Instructions:

Crown: With (A) Ch 3, jwslst to form ring,
Rnd 1: Ch 1, Sc 9 times in ring, jwslst (9 sc)
Rnd 2: Ch 1, 2 sc in each sc around, jwslst (18 sc)
Rnd 3: Ch1, sc in same st, 2 sc in nextsc, *1 sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc, Repeat from * around, jwslst (27 sc)
Rnd 4: Ch 2, *1 hdc in each of next 3 sc, 2 hdc in next sc, Repeat from * around, hdc in last sc, jwslst (35 hdc)
Rnd 5: Ch 2 loosely, *1 dc in each of next 4 hdc, 2 dc in next hdc, Repeat from * around, dc in same st as ch 2, jwslst (42 dc)
Rnd 6: Ch 2 loosely, *1 dc in each of next 5 dc, 2 dc in next dc, Repeat from * around, dc in same st as ch 2, jwslst (49 dc)
Rnd 7: Ch 2 loosely, *1 dc in each of next 6 dc, 2 dc in next dc, Repeat from * around, dc in same st as ch 2, jwslst (56 dc)
Rnd 8: "Leaf Round" *Ch 6,slst in second ch from hook, sc in next ch, 1 hdc in each of next 3 ch, sk next dc on crown, slst in next dc on crown, Repeat from * 26 times,  (27 leaves) FO (A)
Rnd 9: "Upper sides and lower hat".  Work around the post, not in the stitches. Work with the row facing you and push the leaves away from your work.
Join (B) around the post (atp) of any dc on round 7, Ch 1, 1 sc around each post all the way around, jwslst (56 sc atp)
Rnd 10: Ch 1, sc in same sc, 2 sc in next sc (increase made), 1 sc in each of next 25 sc, 2 sc in next sc (increase made), 1 sc in each sc to end of round, jwslst (58 sc)
Rnd 11: Ch 2, 1 hdc in next sc and in each sc around, jwslst (58 hdc)
Rnd 12 and Rnd 13: Ch 2, 1 hdc in next hdc and in each hdc around, jwslst (58 hdc)
Rnd 14: Ch 2 loosely, 1 dc in next hdc and in each hdc around, jwslst (58 dc)
Rnd 15 and Rnd 16: Ch 2 loosely, 1 dc in next dc and in each dc around, jwslst (58 dc)
Rnd 17: Ch 2 loosely, dcdec in next 2 dc, dc in next 25 dc, dcdec in next 2 dc, dc in each dc around, jwslst (56 dc)
Rnd 18: Ch 2, 1 hdc in next dc and in each dc around, jwslst (56 dc)
Rnd 19: Ch 2, hdcdec in next 2 hdc, hdc in next 23 dc, hdcdec in next 2 hdc, hdc in each hdc around, jwslst (54 hdc)
Rnd 20: Ch 1, 1 sc in each hdc around, jwslst (54 sc)
Rnd 21: Ch 1, 1 sc in each sc around, jwslst (54 sc) FO and weave in ends.
Top of the Hat Leaf Flower:  "Work around sc posts for this area"
Rnd 1: Join (B) in any post of any sc on round 2, Ch 1, sc around the post of each sc around, jwslst (18 sc)
Rnd 2: "Top of Hat Leaf Round" *Ch 6,slst in second ch from hook, sc in next ch, 1 hdc in each of next 3 ch, sk next sc on round, slst in next sc,  Repeat from * 8 times,  (9 leaves) FO and weave in ends.
Finish: Thread a yarn needle with a long piece of (B) and tack each leaf end down separately to the bottom of round 4 tying on the inside of the hat, trim ends.
 

K 8.9 Felted Tote

By Berta Gilholm

Materials:

Lion Brand Martha Stewart Crafts Roving Wool, Bulky #5 100% wool, 1.75 oz/50 gm - 58 yds. -
3 skeins - #553 Umbrella, 2 skeins each of #513 Pimento and #548 Sea Glass Blue.
Crochet Hook size US L/11, 8mm.
Yarn Needle
Note: Tote is worked starting at the bottom in the round, work around ch row in rounds and join with slst on each round. Granny Pocket is made separately and then attached to tote. Strap is worked lengthwise in rows and then attached to tote and sewn together to finish. Weave in ends as work progresses. Ch 2 counts as first stitch of round/row unless otherwise indicated.
Approximate Finished Size: Tote = 10 inches wide x 12 inches High, Pocket = 7 ½ inches wide x 7 inches high, Strap = 34 ½  inches long x 2 ¼ inch circumference.
Abbreviations: Ch = chain, Dc = double crochet, Hdc = half double crochet, FO = fasten off, Jwslst = join with slip stitch in top of beginning stitch of current row,  Rnd = round, Sc = single crochet, Slst = slip stitch, St = stitch.
Instructions: Color Code = (A) Umbrella (B) Sea Glass Blue (C) Pimento
Main Tote: With (A) Ch 31 "Rnds will be started working arnd and in the ends of this ch"
Rnd 1: Sc in second ch from hook and each ch across, 3 more sc in last ch, (turn corner and work from opposite side of ch back to first sc)  sc in next 29 ch, 2 more sc in last ch, jwslst (64 sc)
Rnd 2: Ch 2, 1 hdc in each of next 63 sc, jwslst (64 hdc)
Rnd 3: Ch 2 loosely, 1 dc in each of next 63 hdc, jwslst (64 dc) FO (A) Join (B) in any dc,
Rnd 4: Ch 1, 1 sc in same dc and each dc around, jwslst (64 sc)
Rnd 5: Ch 2 loosely, 1 dc in each of next 63 sc, jwslst (64 dc) FO (B) Join (C) between any dc,
Rnd 6: Ch1, 1 sc in between each dc around, jwslst (64 sc)
Rnd 7: Ch 2 loosely, 1 dc in each of next 63 sc, jwslst (64 dc) FO (C) Join (A) in any dc,
Rnd 8: Ch 2 loosely, 1 dc in each of next 63 dc, jwslst (64 dc)  
Rnd 9 through Rnd16: Repeat Rnd 8, at end of round 16 FO (A) Join (B) in any dc, (64 dc)
Rnd 17 through Rnd 20: Repeat Rnd 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 including yarn changes at end of round 7, (64 dc)
Rnd 21 and Rnd 22: Repeat Rnd 8, at end of round 22, FO (A) Join (B) in any dc, (64 dc)
Rnd 23 through Rnd 26: Repeat Rnd 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 including yarn changes, at end of round 26 FO, and weave in ends.
Granny Square Pocket:
With (A) Ch 3, jwslst in first ch to form a ring,
Rnd 1: Ch 1, Sc 12 times in ring, (12 sc) FO (A) Join (C)
Rnd 2: Ch 3, 2 dc in any sc (corner made) 1 dc in each of next 2 dc, *3 dc in next dc, 1 dc in each of next 2 dc; Repeat from * 2 more times, jwslst, (20 dc (4-3dc corners + 8 side dc)) FO (C) and Join (B) in the center dc of any corner,
Rnd 3: Ch 3, 3 dc in same dc (corner) , 1 dc in each of next 4 dc, *4 dc in next dc, 1 dc in each of next 4 dc; Repeat from * 2 more times, jwslst, (32 dc (4-4 dc corners + 16 side dc)) FO (B) and Join (A) in between the center 2 dc of any corner,
Rnd 4: Ch 3, 3 dc in same dc (corner) , 1 dc in each of next 7 dc, *4 dc in between the center 2 dc of next corner, 1 dc in each of next  7 dc; Repeat from * 2 more times, jwslst, (44 dc (4-4 dc corners + 28 side dc)) FO (A) and Join (C) in between the center 2 dc of any corner,
Rnd 5: Ch 3, 3 dc in same dc (corner) , 1 dc in each of next 10 dc, *4 dc in between the center 2 dc of next corner, 1 dc in each of next  10 dc; Repeat from * 2 more times, jwslst, (56 dc (4-4 dc corners + 40 side dc)) FO (C) and Join (B) in between the center 2 dc of any corner,
Rnd 6: Ch 3, 3 dc in same dc (corner) , 1 dc in each of next 13 dc, *4 dc in between the center 2 dc of next corner, 1 dc in each of next  13 dc; Repeat from * 2 more times, jwslst, (68 dc (4-4 dc corners + 52 side dc)) FO (B) and Join (C) in between the center 2 dc of any corner,
Rnd 7: Ch 3, 3 dc in same dc (corner) , 1 dc in each of next 16 dc, *4 dc in between the center 2 dc of next corner, 1 dc in each of next 16 dc; Repeat from * 2 more times, jwslst, (80 dc (4-4 dc corners + 64 side dc)) FO leaving a 3 foot tail for sewing.
Center the Granny Square on either side of the Main Tote, using the tail with a yarn needle attach  the Granny Square to the tote starting down one side, then across bottom and back up other side, FO and weave in ends.
Strap:
With (A) leaving an 8 inch tail for sewing before first ch, Ch 100,
Row 1: Sc in second ch from hook and each ch across, (99 sc) FO (A) Join (B)
Row 2: Ch 1, 1 hdc in every sc across, turn (99 sc) FO (B) Join (C)
Row 3 and 4: Ch 1, 1 Sc in every st across, turn (99 sc) at end of row 4 FO (C) Join (A)
Row 5: Ch 1, 1 hdc in every sc across, turn (99 sc) FO (A) Join (B)
Row 6 and 7: Ch 1, 1 Sc in every st across, turn (99 sc) at end of row 4 FO (B) Join (C)
Row 8: Ch 1, 1 hdc in every sc across, turn (99 sc) FO leaving an 8 inch tail for sewing.
Finishing Strap:
1. Center one of the strap ends on the outside top of one side of the main tote and pin with markers; using the 8 inch tail sew the strap end to the tote with a yarn needle, FO and weave in end.
2. Repeat with the other strap end on the other side of the tote.
3. Take a 48 inch piece of either yarn (A) or (C) and using yarn needle and starting on one side of tote; sew the first and last rows of strap on the underside together from one side of tote to the other to form a tube, FO and weave in ends.

Felting:  Felt the purse twice.

Put a small hard piece of plastic the size you want the finished pocket inside the pre-felted pocket area of the purse to help separate that area, you can also put a piece in the purse area. Then put the purse in a pillow case and tie closed with a piece of yarn. Place pillow case, tennis balls or other heavy articles and detergent into washer. Wash on hot for a regular load until just before spin cycle (Do not use softener, it will stop the felting process) this usually takes me 15 minutes. Remove the purse from case, stretch to check for size after each washing and smooth pockets and shape straps.  When you are satisfied with the size lay it flat on a towel to dry, or hang it from a door knob, leave it there 2 days to dry in a dry warm spot. Don’t use the dryer during felting, it will mess it up. After tote is dry, shave lightly with a disposable razor to remove any fuzz.

 

Midnight Earrings

By Berta Gilholm

I made these Earrings to go with Susie's Barefoot Sandals, same color yarn and beads, but, you wear them on your ears!!! They also make a great super easy and quickie Christmas Present using white, red or green thread yarn  and silver or, gold beads (or your choice of any).

Materials:

100 yds or less Black size 3 Fashion Cotton Crochet Thread, use in any color you like.
12 small metal beads (8 blue/4 silver) 2 medium large metal silver stars. Use colors you like and shapes you like.
Beading needle to thread beads.
Crochet Hooks: US D3/3.25mm
1 pair Fishhook Earring Wires
Stitch Abbreviations: Ch = Chain, FO = Fasten Off, Rnd + round, SB = slide up a bead, Sk = skip, Sc = Single Crochet, Slst = slip stitch.
Instructions:  "Make 2" unless you have more earring piercings, then you can make more.
String the following beads on yarn with beading needle - (Sm. Blue, sm. Silver, sm. Blue, Silver Star, sm. Blue, sm. Silver, sm. Blue)
Ch 3, jwslst to form a ring,
Rnd 1: Ch 1, sc 12 times in the ring, jwslst, (12 sc)
Rnd 2: Ch 1, 2 sc in each of first 3 sc, *SB, sc in next sc, Repeat 6 more times in stringing order above, 2 sc in each of last 2 sc, jwslst (17 sc + 7 beads)
Hook Loop: Sc in same st as slst, ch 2, sk 1 sc, sc in next sc, FO, weave in ends and fabric tack ends.
Thread Ear-wire through hook loop.

Barefoot Sandals for Susie

By Berta Gilholm

This pattern is from the center of an old doily pattern for the top of the foot. You can experiment with the center of any round, oval or elongated square doily pattern, make rows of beaded Dc straps or open work ladder patterns. You can add more beads or fewer if you prefer. You can create a cuff and join it to the top instead of ties for the ankle. You can also crochet into a metal/wood or bone toe ring and join that to the bottom instead of the toe ring in this pattern.

Sizes: Small/Medium or Large Adult

Materials:
200 yds Black size 3 Fashion Cotton Crochet Thread, use in any color you like.
74 assorted 8mm to 11mm beads (I used mostly silver and a few blue metallic (mixed shapes - ball, rose ball, ruffle dividers, round flat and stars)) Use colors you like and shapes you like.
Beading needle to thread beads.
Crochet Hooks: US C2/3mm for Adult Small, D3/3.25mm for Adult Medium, E4/3.5mm for Adult large.
Stitch Abbreviations: Ch = Chain, Dc = Double Crochet, FO = Fasten Off , Hdc = Half Double Crochet, Lp + loop, Rnd + round, SB = slide up a bead, Sc = Single Crochet, Scdec = single crochet decrease, Slst = slip stitch, Sp(s) = space/spaces, St = Stitch, YO = yarn over.
Stitch Note:  Ch 2 counts as hdc and Ch 3 counts as dc unless otherwise stated.
Scdec = Insert hook in next st, draw up a lp, (two lps on hook), insert hook in next st, draw up a lp (3 lps on hook), YO and draw through all 3 lps.
Instructions:
Top of Foot: (make 2)
Using Black cotton thread, Thread 32 beads onto thread with a beading needle, I used the following beads in this order: *Rose Ball, Divider, Flat, Silver Star, Flat, Divider, Rose, Divider, Flat, Silver Star, Ball, Divider, Repeat from * then for last 6 beads thread a Divider, Blue Star, Rose, Blue Star, Rose, Blue Star for center round .
Carry beads on unused thread and slide bead back to work into stitches as needed.
Ch 4, slst into first ch to form a ring.
Rnd 1: Ch 1, work 11 sc in ring, jwslst (11 sc)
Rnd 2: Ch 1, SB (rose ball), sc in same sc, sc in next sc, *SB (blue star), sc in next 2 sc, SB (rose ball), sc in next 2, Repeat  from * 2 times, SB (divider), sc in last sc, jwslst (11 sc with 6 beads)
Rnd 3: Ch 2, hdc in same sc, 2 hdc in next sc and each remaining sc around except last sc, hdc in last sc, jwslst (21 hdc)
Rnd 4: Ch 1, SB (next silver), sc in same hdc, sc in next hdc, *SB (silver), sc in next 2 hdc, Repeat  from * around, jwslst (21 sc with 10 beads)
Rnd 5: Ch 3, 2 dc in next sc, *dc in next sc, 2 dc in next sc, Repeat from * around, jwslst (31 dc)
Rnd 6: Ch 1, SB (next silver), sc in same dc, sc in next dc, *SB (silver), sc in next 2 dc, Repeat  from * around, jwslst (31 sc with 16 beads)
Rnd 7: Ch 3, dc in same sc, ch 2, dc in next sc, ch 2, *2 dc in next sc, ch 2, dc in next sc, Repeat from * around, jwslst (46 dc + 32 ch sp)
 "change to working in rows on Row 8 for top of foot leading to straps".
Row 8: Ch 1, sc in next 16 stitches (dc sts and chsts),  turn (16 sc)
Row 9: Scdec using first 2 sc, sc in next 12 sc, Scdec using last 2 sc, turn (14 sc)
Row 10: Scdec using first 2 sc, sc in next 10 sc, Scdec using last 2 sc, turn (12 sc)
Straps:
Row 11: Ch 68, pull last ch to make a knot (do not FO) leaving a 20 inch loop for beaded ends,
Row 12:  join yarn again back into the last ch worked on row 11 with a slst, sc in same ch, sc in next 66 ch, Continuing across top of foot sc in next 12 sc on foot top,  Ch 68,
Row 13:  Sc in second ch from hook, sc in next 66 ch, jwslst to last sc on top of foot area, FO and weave in ends.
Toe Ring:
#1: Join thread yarn with a slst in bottom center of foot piece, Ch 18, jwslst in st to the left of ch, (Ch ring created) (18 ch)
#2: Working around ch ring, Sc in each ch around, jwslst in foot piece, FO, weave in ends.
Finishing: Cut the 20 inch loops on the strap ends in half, using a beading needle,  thread one loop ends through the needle with the following beads (blue star, divider, silver star, divider, blue star, divider, blue ball), snug up beads, tie several knots at end and t

Crochet Yarn Carrier

By Berta Gilholm

 

Materials: Patons Classic 100% Wool Worsted Weight, 2 skeins Lotus, 1 skein Taupe
Crochet Hook, US J/10 6mm
Yarn Needle 
Abbreviations: Ch=chain, Sc=single crochet, Dc=double crochet, Hdc=half double crochet, FO=fasten off, Rnd = Round, St=stitch, Slst=slip stitch, Jwslst=join with slip stitch in top of first stitch of round.
Note: Ch 2 counts as hdc, Ch 3 counts as dc throughout pattern. Carrier body is made in one piece by working rows for bottom and then coming up working rounds for the sides. Weave in ends as work progresses. Straps are made one half from each end and gradually decreased, then joined at the center to compete.
Special stitch: Hdc2tog = Work a hdc in the next stitch without completing the very last step (keep all three loops on hook), then hdc in the next stitch without completing the last step. You should have 5 loops on the hook then yarn over and draw through all the loops. Decrease made.
Instruction: 
Carrier Bottom
(Approximate size: 16.5" long x 10" wide before felting) (11.5" long x 7" wide after felting)
With Taupe Ch 33,
Row 1: Sc in second ch from hook, and in each ch across, turn (32 sc)
Row 2: Ch 2, hdc in next sc and each sc across, turn (32 hdc)
Row 3: Ch 2, hdc in next hdc and in each hdc across, turn
Rows 4 through Row 42: Repeat Row 3
Row 43: Ch 1, sc in each hdc across, (32 sc) Do not FO, continue with Main Carrier below.
Main Carrier Sides:
(Depth in size: 12.5" high before felting)(7.5" high after felting)
Rnd 1: (Continuing with Taupe) Ch 2, (work across long side) hdc in each row end for a total of 42 hdc, hdc in next 32 st (across short end), hdc across other long side for 42 hdc, hdc in next 32 st across other short end, jwslst to first hdc (148 hdc)
Rnd 2: Ch 2, hdc in next hdc and in each hdc around, jwslst. FO Taupe, join Lotus (148 hdc)
Rnd 3 through Rnd 23: Ch 3, dc in next st and each st around jwslst. (148 dc)
Rnd 24: Ch 2, hdc in next dc and each dc around, jwslst, FO Lotus and join Taupe (148 hdc)
Rnd 25: Ch 2, hdc in next hdc and each hdc around, "place a marker in 42nd, 74th, 116th and 148th hdc st, for strap work", jwslst, FO weave in ends.
Strap: Strap is worked on the ends of the Carrier, one half at a time. Hold Carrier, right side facing/bottom side down, (decrease to 3.5" wide prefelt at the thinnest point and 1.5" wide after felting) then the 2 ends of the strap are slst together to finish.
"Repeat pattern on each end of Carrier".
First half: Join Taupe in first hdc at marker on #74, of top right hand corner on end of carrier,
Row 1: Ch 1, sc in same st, sc in next 31 hdc across, turn (32 sc) "ending at marker on hdc #42"
Row 2: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), Hdc in next sc and each sc across, turn (31 hdc + 1 ch2)
Row 3: Ch 1, Hdc2tog, 1 hdc in next 28 hdc, hdc2tog, turn (2 decreases made for 30 hdc)
Row 4: Ch 1, Hdc2tog, 1 hdc in next 26 hdc, hdc2tog, turn (2 decreases made for 28 hdc)
Row 5: Ch 1, Hdc2tog, 1 hdc in next 24 hdc, hdc2tog, turn (2 decreases made for 26 hdc)
Row 6: Ch 1, Hdc2tog, 1 hdc in next 22 hdc, hdc2tog, turn (2 decreases made for 24 hdc)
Row 7: Ch 1, Hdc2tog, 1 hdc in next 20 hdc, hdc2tog, turn (2 decreases made for 22 hdc)
Row 8: Ch 1, Hdc2tog, 1 hdc in next 18 hdc, hdc2tog, turn (2 decreases made for 20 hdc)
Row 9: Ch 1, Hdc2tog, 1 hdc in next 16 hdc, hdc2tog, turn (2 decreases made for 18 hdc)
Row 10: Ch 1, Hdc2tog, 1 hdc in next 14 hdc, hdc2tog, turn (2 decreases made for 16 hdc)
Row 11: Ch 1, Hdc2tog, 1 hdc in next 12 hdc, hdc2tog, turn (2 decreases made for 14 hdc)
Row 12: Ch 1, Hdc2tog, 1 hdc in next 10 hdc, hdc2tog, turn (2 decreases made for 12 hdc)
Row 13: Ch 2, 1 Hdc in each of next 11 hdc, turn (12 hdc)
Row 14 through Row 44: Repeat Row 13, at end Do not turn and FO leaving a 24" tail for joining straps.
Second Half: Join Taupe at marker on hdc #148, of top right hand corner on other end of carrier and repeat Row 1 through Row 44, but, FO at the end of Row 44 and weave in end.
Finish Strap: Line up both strap ends front to front, join ends together with slst and slst in each set of stitches across, FO weave in end.
Hook Pocket 1: (size: 9.5" high x 14" wide before felting) (6.25" high x 10.25" wide after felting)
With Taupe Ch 29,
Row 1: Sc in second ch from hook and each ch across, turn (28 sc)
Row 2: Ch 2, hdc in next sc and each sc across, turn (28 hdc)
Row 3 through Row 37: Ch 2, hdc in next hdc and each hdc across, turn, FO leaving a 42" tail for sewing to carrier.
Using tail, sew 2 sides and bottom of the hook pocket centered on one side of the carrier. Using same yarn and yarn needle sew 6 channels evenly spaced across pocket from bottom to top to form hook pockets for hook storage. Sew across  bottom edge and FO weave in ends.
Accessory Pocket:  (size: 9" high x 9" wide before felting) (6" high x 6" wide after felting )
With Lotus, ch 27,
Row 1: Sc in second ch from hook and each ch across, turn (26 sc)
Row 2: Ch 2, hdc in next sc and each sc across, turn (28 hdc)
Row 3 through Row 24: Ch 2, hdc in next hdc and each hdc across, turn, FO leaving a 24" tail for sewing.
Using tail, sew the 2 sides and bottom of the accessory pocket centered to other side of the carrier.

Finish By Felting:

Felt the Carrier three times. Put a small hard piece of plastic or something similar inside the pockets to help separate that area, you can also put a piece in the purse area, but, it's not necessary. Then put the carrier in a pillow case and tie closed with a piece of yarn. Place pillow case, some tennis balls or other washing articles and detergent into washer. Wash on hot for a regular load until just before spin cycle (Do not use softener, it will stop the felting process) this usually takes me 15 minutes for each wash. Remove the purse from case, stretch to check for size after each washing and smooth and shape straps and pockets, take a thick dowel or a P or Q plastic crochet hook and stretch out the hook pockets to make sure they don't cling to themselves during felting.  When you are satisfied with the size remove plastic and rinse it out (this can be done in the washer after the last wash on cold rinse). Take a small cardboard box or similar item and push it inside the Carrier, stretch and adjust for smoothness, sit the whole thing on a towel to dry,  leave it there 2 days to dry in a dry warm spot. Don’t use the dryer during felting, it may mess it up. When Dry, take a disposable razor and shave the fuzz and lumpy areas smooth.

Charleston Hat

By Berta Gilholm

This is what happens when you get bored with something you're working on. You make a quick project to cure the boredom. It does help to have a pretty neighbor who poses for a picture.

Materials:
Red Heart Super Saver, Painted Desert, worsted weight #4, (1 skein)
Crochet Hook: US J 10/6mm
Yarn Needle
Crochet Dude Bloom Loom
Abbreviations: Ch=chain, Dc=double crochet,  FO=fasten off, Rnd = round, Sc=single crochet, Sk = skip next stitch  St =stitch, Slst = slip stitch, Jwslst=join with slip stitch in top of beginning stitch of round.
Size: Approximately 21 to 22 inches circumference.
Instructions: Work from top down in rounds.
Ch 3, slst in second ch from hook to form a ring
Rnd 1: Ch 1, sc 9 times in the ring, jwslst (9 sc)
Rnd 2: Ch 1, 2 sc in each sc around, jwslst (18 sc)
Rnd 3: Ch 1, 1 sc in first sc, *2 sc in next sc, 1 sc in next sc, Repeat from * around, jwslst (27 sc)
Rnd 4: Ch 1, 1 sc in each of first 2 sc, *2 sc in next sc, 1 sc in each of next 2 sc, Repeat from * around, jwslst (36 sc)
Rnd 5: Ch 1, 1 sc in each of first 5 sc, *2 sc in next sc, 1 sc in each of next 5 sc, Repeat from * around, jwslst (42 sc)
Rnd 6: Ch 1, 1 sc in each of first 6 sc, *2 sc in next sc, 1 sc in each of next  6 sc, Repeat from * around, jwslst (48 sc)
Rnd 7: Ch 1, 1 sc in each of first 7 sc, *2 sc in next sc, 1 sc in each of next 7 sc, Repeat from * around, jwslst (54 sc)
Rnd 8: Ch 1, 2 sc in first sc, 1 sc in each of next 27 sc,  2 sc in next sc, 1 sc in each of next 27 sc, jwslst (56 sc)
Rnd 9: *Ch 4, sk next sc, sc in next sc, Repeat from * around joining last ch 4 in first ch of beginning ch 4 with a slst (28 ch loops)
Rnd 10: Ch 1, Sc 2 times into first ch loop, Sc 2 times into each ch loop arnd, jwslst (56 sc)
Rnd 11: Repeat Rnd 9 (28 ch loops)
Rnd 12: Repeat Rnd 10 (56 sc)
Rnd 13: Ch 3, dc in next sc and in each sc around, jwslst (56 dc)
Rnd 14 and Rnd 15: Ch 3, dc in next dc and in each dc around, jwslst (56 dc)
Turn hat inside out and do not fasten off (work on opposite side, but, in same direction)
Rnd 16: Ch 1, sc in same st, dc in next dc, *sc in next dc, dc in next dc, Repeat from * around, jwslst (28 sc + 28 dc)
Rnd 17: Ch 1, dc in same st, sc in next dc, *dc in next sc, sc in next dc, Repeat around, jwslst, FO and weave in ends (28 dc + 28 sc)
Flower:
Option 1: Use a Bloom Loom to make a double petal flower following manufacturer's instructions. Sew Flower to second row of dc (Rnd 14) securely.

Option 2: Use my flower pattern below.

Materials:
Same yarn as Hat or Worsted Weight in a coordinating color of your choice.
Crochet Hook: Size US H 8/5mm
Yarn Needle
Instructions: (work in rounds and leave a 6" beginning tail held to the back of the work)
Ch 3, slst in second ch from hook to make a ring
Rnd 1: Ch 1, 10 sc in ring, jwslst
Rnd 2: Ch 3, slst in same stitch, *ch 3, slst in next sc, Repeat from * 10
times,  join with a slst to first ch 3 space
Rnd 3: *Ch 6, slst in second ch from hook, sc in next ch, hdc in next ch, dc in
next ch, hdc in next ch, slst in same ch 3 space, Repeat from * around in each
ch 3 space, after last petal slst in first ch  of first petal
Rnd 4: Ch 4, sc in top stitch of the first sc in ring of rnd 1, (these stitches
do not have to be perfect, use a yarn needle to lift the sc’s up while working
in them)  *Ch 4, sc in top of next sc in rnd 1, Repeat 7 more times,
Fasten off leaving a 7" tail, weave this tail through the center of the flower to the back, tie the 2 tails together. Use theses 2 tails to secure flower to the hat on the second row of dc (Rnd 14) of hat.

 

 

 

Fuzz-aghan

By Berta Gilholm

An Afghan made of Squares that are easy to make and fuzzy for a warm comfortable finish. All Yarns were leftovers and the square pattern is made holding 1 strand of Fuzzy and 1 strand of Bulky together. You can use any combo you want and I am listing the basic colors I used together and the number of squares. The borders around the squares are made with 1 strand of black worsted weight #4 and the border around the outside is made up of 1 row of 1 strand black and 2 rows of black fuzzy and worsted weight black held together.

Materials:  My Leftover’s,
(A) 100% Lion Brand Jiffy #5 bulky, 12 sk mixed (colors = Camel Spray, Caffe, Expresso, Gold, Blush, Avocado) 6 sk mixed Vannna's Colors #5 bulky (color = Woodgrain, Topaz, Wheat)  or any colors you prefer of leftover #5 bulky yarn.
(B) Lion Brand Fun Fur (1 sk per sq.) mixed  (Lava, Blond, White, (4 - Black for border)); (Dept. 71/Valerie Purple Glitter(3/4 sk per sq.) and mixed Outerspace Blue, Pink, Bronze) (Gala Fur (1 sk. Per sq.) Lt. Purple, Pink Blue) or any fuzzy, lumpy, shiny, pom-pom, fur type yarn you like.
(C) For Border use 2 sk. of Red Heart Super Saver, 7 oz/198g of Black worsted weight #4.
Crochet Hook US K/10.5 – 6.5mm
Yarn Needle
Abbreviations: Ch = Chain, ChL = chain loosely, St = Stitch, Sc = Single Crochet, Dc = Double Crochet, Sk =  skein, FO = Fasten Off.
Notes: Holding 1 strand (any color) (A) and 1 strand (any color) (B) together, work in rows, ch 2 counts as first dc on each row of dc. Weave in ends as you go.
Each Square measures – 11” x 11" with border and the finished Afghan measures 58" wide x 85".


Make 35 assorted squares: These is the combo's I used.
4 - Topaz/Blond Fuzz          4 - Expresso/Valerie Purple          1 - Expresso/Pink Red Bauble
4 - Camel /Bronze Fuzz       5 - Avocado/Pink multi Fuzz      2 - Woodgrain/Black White Fuzz
5 - Gold/Blue Fuzz               4 - Blush/Purple Fuzz                  2 - Wheat/White Fuzz
3 - Avocado/Light Beige       1 - Lava/Bronze Fuzz
Instructions: Square.
With a your choice from (A) and (B) held together Ch 21, turn
Row 1: Sc in 2^nd ch from hook, sc in each ch across, turn (20 sc)
Row 2: ChL 2, dc in next sc, dc in each sc across, turn (20 dc)
Row 3: ChL 2, dc in next dc, dc in each dc across, turn (20 dc)
Row 4 through Row 13: Repeat Row 3, FO weave in ends.
Square Border: Repeat around each square. Use 1 strand Black.
Row 1: (Jn (C) in right hand corner of the square, ChL 2, 2 dc in same st, dc in next 19 st across, 3 dc in corner st, (working down side) 20 dc evenly spaced across ends of rows, 3 dc in corner st,  dc in next 19 st, 3 dc in corner,  20 dc evenly spaced across ends of rows on other side, jwslst, FO weave in end.
Finish: Lay squares 5 horizontal and 7 vertical in rows on flat surface and adjust them until you get an overall color pattern design you like.  
Thread a yarn needle with 1 strand (appx. 90 inch piece) of (C) RH Super Saver black.  
Horizontal Joining of squares: Lay loose row 1 squares on top of row 2 squares and whip stitch each set of squares together (do this horizontally across all 5 squares) you will have 10 squares joined together when finished with the row). Weave in ends and trim as you work. Repeat this process for all squares until all horizontal rows are sewn together.
Vertical Joining of Rows: Fold first vertical row of squares on top of second vertical row of squares and whip stitch squares together from top of afghan to bottom (do this all the way across afghan). When finished all squares will be joined. Weave in ends and trim.
Outside Afghan Border:
Using 1 strand of (C) join yarn in right corner at top or bottom end of afghan,
Row 1: ChL 2, 2 dc in same st, (working across end) dc in next 123 st, 3 dc in corner st, (working down side) - dc in next 173 st, 3 dc in corner st, (working across other end) dc in next 123 st, 3 dc in corner st, (working up other side) - dc in next 173 st, jwslst,
Row 2: Join Black fun fur in same st as slst (working with 1 strand each of RH black worsted weight  and black fun fur held together)   ChL 2, 2 dc in same st, (working across end) dc across to next corner, 3 dc in corner st, (working down side) - dc down side to next corner, 3 dc in corner st, (working across other end) dc across to next corner, 3 dc in corner st, (working up other side) - dc up side to next corner, jwslst,
Row 3: ChL 2, 2 dc in same st, (working across end) dc across to next corner, 3 dc in corner st, (working down side) - dc down side to next corner, 3 dc in corner st, (working across other end) dc across to next corner, 3 dc in corner st, (working up other side) - dc up side to next corner, jwslst, FO weave in ends.