Mystery Crochet-Along Part 3

Now, we come to the final portion.

You will start with the worsted weight yarn.  The bulky fun yarn will be explained in the instructions.

Before you begin, you must decide which option you wish to make:

1. Round Pillow (less than 300 yards of worsted weight yarn)
2. Easter Basket (more than 300 yards of worsted weight yarn)
3. Purse / Bag ( a lot more than 300 yards of worsted weight yarn)
4. A small beret and a cowl (around 300 yards of worsted weight yarn)

The fun part is when you finish you can start over and make something new!!!

1. Round pillow instructions
1. seam part 1 to part 2 fasten off weave in ends.
2. create a pillow with material and stuffing (I used massive scraps of yarn for my stuffing)
1. Cut a piece of fabric, just bigger than your part 1, (cut out two), cut a strip of material, just bigger than your part two, all the way around [at least 1/4 inch wider on all sides]
2. Sew 1 circle to the strip, sew second circle to the strip, turn inside out, stuff (i used scraps of yarn)
3. Seam the strip closed. 
3. Optional close
1. add yarn where you cast off on part 2
2. ch 1, hdc in joining stitch, hdc in next 7 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, *hdc in next 8 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, repeat from * around (81 hdc)
3. ch 1, hdc in joining stitch, hdc in next 6 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, *hdc in next 7 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, repeat from * around (72 hdc) 
4. ch 1, hdc in joining stitch, hdc in next 5 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, *hdc in next 6 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, repeat from * around (63 hdc) 
5. ch 1, hdc in joining stitch, hdc in next 4 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, *hdc in next 5 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, repeat from * around (54 hdc) 
6. ch 1, hdc in joining stitch, hdc in next 3 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, *hdc in next 4 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, repeat from * around (45 hdc) 
7. ch 1, hdc in joining stitch, hdc in next 2 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, *hdc in next 3 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, repeat from * around (36 hdc) 
8. ch 1, hdc in joining stitch, hdc in next stitch, hdc2tog across next two stitches, *hdc in next 2 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, repeat from * around (27 hdc) 
9. ch 1, hdc in joining stitch, hdc2tog across next two stitches, *hdc in next stitch, hdc2tog across next two stitches, repeat from * around (18 hdc)
10. ch 1, *hdc2tog across next 2 stitches, repeat from * around (9 hdc)  
11. hdc9tog across all nine stitched, close with ch1, fasten off and weave in ends.
4. 2nd Option:  make a second Part one, and seam over the stuffed pillow
5. Fasten off and weave in ends.
6. Using the bulky fun yarn, add yarn to one side's edge, ch1 (does not count as a stitch), hdc in joining stitch, hdc around the the edge, sl st to join in the first hdc.  fasten off and weave in ends.  (if you want repeat process for the other side of the pillow)
2. Easter Basket   (probably would work best with RHSS, Handicrafter Cotton or any stiff yarn.)
1. Using Step 2, continue repeating Round 2 until basket sides are as tall as you would like them.
2. Chain 9, hdc in 3rd ch from hook, hdc in each ch across, *turn, ch 2 (counts as hdc, hdc in next stitch and across, repeat from * until piece is as long as you would like basket handle.
3. Seam part one to your basket sides, then seam handle to basket.
4. Using your bulky fun yarn, add yarn to front loop only of basket rim,  ch1 (does not count as a stitch), hdc in joining stitch, hdc around the the edge, sl st to join in the first hdc.  fasten off and weave in ends.  (I found that it helps with stability and really looks cute to repeat this with the bottom round of basket.
3. Purse / Bag
1. Using Step 2, continue repeating Round 2 until bag sides are as tall as you would like them.
2. Chain 9, hdc in 3rd ch from hook, hdc in each ch across, *turn, ch 2 (counts as hdc, hdc in next stitch and across, repeat from * until piece is as long as you would like purse handle.
3. Seam part one to your bag sides, then seam handle to bag.
4. You may want to use material and create a lining
5. Using your bulky fun yarn, add yarn to front loop only of bag rim,  ch1 (does not count as a stitch), hdc in joining stitch, hdc around the the edge, sl st to join in the first hdc.  fasten off and weave in ends. 
4. Small size beret and cowl
1. The cowl is complete, but you can always add more if you would like it to be taller.
1. Using bulky fun yarn, you can add a really fun edge to one or both edges of the cowl.   Using your bulky fun yarn, add yarn to cowl edge,  ch1 (does not count as a stitch), hdc in joining stitch, hdc around the the edge, sl st to join in the first hdc.  fasten off and weave in ends.
2. For the beret:
1. Add yarn where you left off on part one.  (Contact me for instructions if you would like this to be an adult beret.)
2. ch1, hdc around,
3. ch 1, hdc in joining stitch, hdc in next 7 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, *hdc in next 8 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, repeat from * around (81 hdc)
4. ch 1, hdc in joining stitch, hdc in next 6 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, *hdc in next 7 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, repeat from * around (72 hdc) 
5. ch 1, hdc in joining stitch, hdc in next 5 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, *hdc in next 6 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, repeat from * around (63 hdc) 
6. ch 1, hdc in joining stitch, hdc in next 4 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, *hdc in next 5 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, repeat from * around (54 hdc) 
7. ch 1, hdc in joining stitch, hdc in next 3 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, *hdc in next 4 stitches, hdc2tog across next two stitches, repeat from * around (45 hdc) 
8. ch 1, hdc in joining stitch, hdc around, join with a slip stitch (45 hdc)
9. Repeat Round 8
10. Repeat Round 8
11. Repeat Round 8
12. Repeat Round 8, fasten off and weave in ends!
13. I used the bulky fun yarn and made a pom pom for the top of the beret.

Learning to use a Drop Spindle

My latest goal has been for some time to learn how to spin on a Drop Spindle.

I did tons of research on fibers, and drop spindles, and watched a LOT of videos on You Tube.

Fibers:
I found some combed top roving already dyed fibers for a decent price and purchased them.   I have since learned that a beginner should start with combed top roving when learning to spin.   I have read different things about what fiber is the easiest to learn with.  So far, the easiest fiber to spin has been merino wool.   I have enjoyed spinning bamboo as well.
I hope to learn how to spin using batts and using locks very soon.   But I think it would be helpful to you to see and learn a little about what each of the three are.

After the wool has been cleaned, it is carded; which opens the fibers and causes the fibers to be in random direction.  Depending on how that carded fiber is taken from the carding machine, it is roving or batt. If the carded fiber is combed by another machine to remove short fibers and align the fibers in the same direction , it becomes combed top.

Combed top:

http://www.paradisefibers.net/Ashland-Bay-Multi-Colored-Merino-Top-Garnet-p/910.htm


Fiber Batt:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/94647101/autumn-breeze-hogg-wild-fiber-batt-38


Wool Locks:

http://www.shopneauveau.com/product/evening-meadow-dyed-border-leicester-locks-10-oz


I am sure there are other types of fiber that you can get, I am not sure if they can be spun or not.   As you can see I am still learning.

What about kinds of fibers?   There are so many fibers out there!  How do you know which ones to use?  Well there are a few things to consider.   Are you allergic to wool?  If so, you may want to spin alpaca, or bamboo, or cotton.  (I have only tried bamboo so far, and not totally sure how easy cotton is to spin, or even how to get a hold of cotton that I would like to spin -- still working on that.  
But even with wool there are many different types of wool.

Approximately 90 percent of the world's sheep produce wool. One sheep produces anywhere from 2 to 30 pounds of wool annually. The wool from one sheep is called a fleece, from many sheep, a clip. The amount of wool that a sheep produces depends upon its breed, genetics, nutrition, and shearing interval. Lambs produce less wool than mature animals. Due to their larger size, rams usually produce more wool than ewes of the same breed or type.
Fine wool sheep produce fleeces which usually have the greatest value due to their smaller fiber diameter and versatility of use. Garments made from fine wool are less likely to itch.
Because there are over 200 varieties of sheep and it can get a little confusing, I can tell you that so far, a fine merino and bfl (bluefaced leicester) are my favorite wools to spin.   Blue Faced Leicester is a longer stapled wool (the individual fibers are longer) which is fine enough for next-to-skin wear and very hard to felt.

What is a drop spindle?
A drop spindle is something used to spin yarn by hand, without the need of an actual spinning wheel.   Drop spindles are usually classified into bottom whirl, top whirl and navajo.  I have not had good success, yet, with a bottom whirl spindle, but I have not given up.  One day I would love to try the navajo spindle.  Most of what I have learned about spindles (and many other parts of spinning came from this amazing site: http://www.joyofhandspinning.com/spindle-types.shtml!


What helped me learn?
I want to share with you some videos that really helped me learn to use the drop spindle.

This has been the best video for me:
http://youtu.be/rPUORvO-GZE

There are many more videos that I have watched, but this video is when everything finally clicked for me.


Where can I get a drop spindle?
http://www.knitpicks.com/accessories/Drop_Spindle__D80700.html
http://www.paradisefibers.net/Drop-Spindles-s/32.htm
http://www.facebook.com/hoggwildfibers

Well now you know how I got started.  I hope you found this useful or at least informative.
I am going to get back to spinning, and designing.  Happy first day of Spring!

Mystery Crochet-Along PART 2

Note:  I have realized that some of the final options may require more than 300 yards of yarn.   I just want everyone to be aware of this.  There will be at least 2 options that you can make with the 300 yards of yarn!  Also, I found a really yummy option that uses quite a bit of the fun funky yarn -- but it is optional.  Just a heads up!

Again we are not yet using our Bulky yarn.  This will be done using our worsted weight yarn and same hook from part 1.


ch 90, join with a slip stitch
Rounds:

1. ch1 (does not count as a stitch), hdc in first ch, hdc in all remaining chains around, join with a slip stitch into first sc (ignore the ch 1) (90 hdc)
2. (changing colors, if desired) chain 1, hdc in joining stitch, hdc in each stitch around, join with a slip stitch into the first hdc (ignore the ch 1)
3. Repeat Round 2
4. Repeat Round 2
5. Repeat Round 2
6. Repeat Round 2
7. Repeat Round 2
8. Repeat Round 2
9. Repeat Round 2
10. Repeat Round 2 (do NOT fasten off)

Congratulations you have completed Part 2 of the crochet along.

Do you know what you are making yet?


Stay tuned for more instructions as we continue our Crochet Along.

You can share your progress here or a my Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/My.Creations.By.Valorie

If you have any questions, please ask.

Crochet Along (CAL) Works in Progress (WIPs)

I want to be able to show off everyone's WIPs for the CAL.   If you are participating in our CAL, please email me your WIP.   Please specify if I have your permission to post your photo here with the others!
email address:  valorie@creations-by-valorie.com


Our first submission is from Rachel, the owner of The Country Hooker.   You can find more of Rachel's work here: http://www.facebook.com/TheCountryHooker

Our second submission comes from Jodie, the owner of Magically Hook'd.  You can find more of Jodie's work here: http://www.facebook.com/magicallyhooked

Our next submission comes from Lisa, owner of I Crochet It.  You can find more of Lisa's work here: 

 http://www.facebook.com/pages/I-crochet-it/253176778050851

Our next submission comes from Shelly, owner of Hooked in Yarn.  You can find more of Shelly's work here: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hooked-in-Yarn/225005554177615

Our next submission comes from Callie, owner of Yarn and String.  You can find more of Callie's work here: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Yarn-and-String/193498477361574?ref=ts

Our next submission comes from Stefanie, owner of ABChic Designs.  You can find more of her work here: http://www.facebook.com/ABChicDesigns

I will keep adding photos as they come in!

Creations by Valorie's Mystery Crochet-Along

Materials Needed:

• Worsted Weight yarn - no more than 300 yards
• Bulky Weight FUN yarn - no more than 100 yards
• I (5.5 mm) hook and J (6 mm) crochet hook
• Stitch marker (can use a strand of other scrap yarn for a stitch marker.

Note: I am using multiple colors, but your project can be solid, or using a self-striping yarn, or using a variegated yarn, it doesn't matter.

First weeks instructions:

Using Worsted Weight Yarn and I hook!!


(you can use an H hook if you prefer, just know that your final project will be smaller.)

Rounds

1. Using a magic circle (or ch3, slip stitch into 3rd ch from hook creating a circle) work 3 sc, 3hdc, and 3 dc in circle (do not join!!) 
2. hdc in first sc, insert stitch marker BEHIND the hdc just worked, hdc in same stitch, 2 hdc in each stitch around.
3. Being sure to move the stitch marker up (and changing colors, if desired), * hdc in first stitch, 2hdc in next stitch, repeat from * around
4. Being sure to move the stitch marker up (and changing colors, if desired), * hdc in first two stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch, repeat from around.
5. Being sure to move the stitch marker up (and changing colors, if desired), * hdc in first 3 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch, repeat from around.
6. Being sure to move the stitch marker up (and changing colors, if desired), * hdc in first 4 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch, repeat from around.
7. Being sure to move the stitch marker up (and changing colors, if desired), *hdc in first 5 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch, repeat from around.
8. Being sure to move the stitch marker up (and changing colors, if desired), *hdc in first 6 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch, repeat from around.
9. Being sure to move the stitch marker up (and changing colors, if desired), *hdc in first 7 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch, repeat from around.
10. Being sure to move the stitch marker up (and changing colors, if desired), *hdc in first 8 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch, repeat from around to last 3 stitches, sc in next 2 stitches, 2 sc in next stitch, sl st in next two stitches.  Fasten off and weave in ends.

You have completed the first part of the Crochet Along!

Stay tuned for more instructions as we continue our Crochet Along.

You can share your progress here or a my Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/My.Creations.By.Valorie

If you have any questions, please ask.

My experience - I can stay quiet no longer.

First, if you are offended by this, I do not apologize.  This is my experience and I will not apologize for it.  You do not have to read it.  

Twenty years ago, I was pregnant with my son.  I was unemployed, living in a home of a friend who was kind to help me out.  I had no insurance, but was on state run Medicaid.   I had no idea what I was going to do about my life.  I was in the middle of a divorce and losing custody of my daughter.  I was scared.

I filled out all the paperwork to have a tubal ligation when I gave birth to my son, because I knew I could not afford to care for me, let alone the child I was carrying, and I had lost my daughter.  I just didn't want to risk having to give up another child -- even if it was what was best for them.

Before I gave birth to my son, Roe v. Wade was overturned.  I lived in Louisiana at the time, and they immediately passed a state law banning abortions -- but added all kinds of contraception stuff to the law.

I gave birth extremely early Saturday morning at LSU Medical Center in Shreveport, LA.  Because I had my child on a weekend, and tubal ligations were considered "elective" surgery, I was put on a two-year waiting list for this surgery.  I was devestated.

I went to the Health Department for my check up, and they said they could offer me contraception if I knew what I wanted, but they could not discuss it with me -- the new law had dramatically affected how they operated.   I am allergic to the pill, and my partner and the father of my son was allergic to latex.   I didn't know if there was another option, so I left with no hope.

Eventually, my son's dad and I married (for financial and insurance reasons) and I was able to get the surgery.

WARNING!   Below is MY Opinion based upon my experience.

Whether my lifestyle was right or wrong isn't the problem.  A two-year waiting list for a surgery to prevent more children specific for women on state aid.   How does this HELP our country?   A health department that cannot explain contraception -- that works specifically with our nation's poorest population -- how does this HELP our country?

Personal beliefs, personal attitudes, religious beliefs and different moralities are exactly that PERSONAL.  It is not the place of our government to legislate morality.  In the 1890s it was common for women to have 10 or more babies, and common to die giving birth.  These women worked in factories beside their children.   They were treated inhumanely.  It was illegal to discuss birth control.   It was illegal for women to have a right to say I don't want any more children.   This affected every single woman that did not have the wealth to ignore the government's stand.   The wealthy women went to Europe and chose what to do with their own bodies.   The poor had no choice.

Why is there a desire of some in this country to go back to that way of life??