Sunday, April 25, 2010

Hooded Jacket by Sue Whiting

I recently started crocheting Sue Whiting's Hooded Jacket from her book Weekend Crochet for Babies. The pattern recommends using Rowan All Season's Cotton which is 60% Cotton and 40% acrylic microfiber. Being rather eager to start the pattern and not all that keen on searching for the exact yarn I substituted this for some left over yarn that I had on hand. Usually when substituting yarn I look for something that has a similar make up, texture, recommended hook size and stitches per inch guide. In addition I check how many meters each ball of yarn contains to ensure that I purchase enough yarn. However, this time around I broke those rules and have used Cascade Yarns Cloud 9 which is 50% Merino Wool and 50% Angora. I suspect that my version of this Jacket is thicker and fluffier than the original. Despite this my almost finished jacket is thus far adhering to the measurements given in the pattern.

It has been fairly quick to make. The pattern is straightforward and can be followed with ease (well mostly). The stitches are simple and I have completed most of the jacket whilst watching TV without needing to refer back to the pattern. There was, however, some guesswork required on the first row: the author has not stated what should be done with the last 2 of the foundation chain. Using the stitch diagram (rather than the written instructions) I was able to infer what stitches to use.

I have only one dilemma left to solve in order to finish this pattern: round buttons (as used in the pattern) or animal shaped buttons?

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

New Arrivals

After years of crocheting baby hats and booties for friends and family, I'm thrilled to say it's now time to start crocheting little pieces for my own bub who will be making a grand appearance in July.  However, I have very quickly discovered that my collection of patterns are far from exciting and the thought of making another hat that looks just like all the others is not very motivating.  So i jumped onto my favorite online bookstore - The Book Depository - and discovered a new world of crochet books.  When selecting crochet books for myself I have steered clear of books that are mostly filled with hats and booties or nursery objects.  Instead I've gone with books that focus more on clothing rather than accessories.  I've now added these two gems to my pattern library: 

Candy Babies: Cute Crochet for Wee Ones by Candi Jenson

Candy Babies contains a variety of cute and unique patterns from Ugg boots, to jackets, dresses, vests and hats.  Most patterns are for babies aged 6-18 months old.  Each pattern is presented with a photo and diagram of the completed item with measurements.  Also included are basic crochet instructions, such as yarn selection and substitution, and pictorial guides to basic crochet stitches.  I find the stitch guides particularly useful in crochet books as it saves me the hassle of trying to work out whether the stitches are based on the American or International crochet system.

Weekend Crochet for Babies: 24 Cute Crochet Designs, from Sweaters and Jackets to Hats and Toys by Sue Whiting

Weekend Crochet for Babies contains adorable jackets, cardigans, coats, sweaters, dresses and more.  Most patterns can be made for babies aged 0-18 months old.  Each pattern is presented with a stitch diagram, and a photo and diagram of the completed project.  This book also includes a pictorial guide to basic crochet stitches.


I've just recently started the Hooded Jacket from Sue Whiting's Weekend Crochet for Babies.  It's similar to the Duffle Coat on the front cover but not as bulky looking.  I will write more about it in the following posts.  Unfortunately pics will have to wait until we announce bubs gender!

Monday, April 5, 2010

How I Got Hooked

For as long as I can remember crochet has been one of my favorite hobbies. It's something I can happily do anywhere anytime: whether I'm curled up in bed on a rainy day, watching TV, or needing something to do at a social event when I don't know what else to do with myself.

I still remember as a young child the day my mum taught me to crochet. I had thought she was so very clever as she showed me how to make some chain and treble. Away I went creating granny squares out of scrap yarn. The only thing I knew how to do was that granny square, so around and around I'd go until a single square was big enough to cover my bed. I loved it, taking orders for family members, friends, pets and dolls; everyone was given a square blanket.

As time went on I discovered other stitches, yarns, patterns and the different terminology used between America and the rest of the world. I moved on from granny squares, to scarves and beanies, then to jumpers and tops, baby's booties, hats and jackets. And I'm proud to say that I'm now teaching mum how to add crochet edging onto her knitting projects.

Hmm... I think i can hear my crochet and bed calling to me. More info about my current projects will be revealed in the posts to come.

Nicki