An Introduction

Hi, hello! If you’ve found your way here from Alexi’s Traveling Afghans project, welcome to my little corner of the internet, affectionately referred to as Sewrella – but people call me Ashleigh! A bit about me: I love baking with my 4-year-old son Parker (you can often find us making Christmas cookies at all times of the year), I’m utterly and forever obsessed with Gilmore Girls, and I have a not-so-side biz hand dyeing yarn (check it out here!).

I’m so happy you’re here and hope you’ll grab a cup of coffee to join me on my fun crochet journey!

Traveling Afghans Project

The absolute gem behind the incredible design biz called Two of Wands, Alexi, created the idea of doing a traveling afghan project – think Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants – but better! It’s traveled by old school snail mail all across the world this year, with one granny square being added to the blanket by each maker it ventures to see. This project has been in the works for almost a year, and still has some special people to visit after me before it’s finished! I’m working on the crochet version, but there is also a knit traveling afghan if you prefer dusting off those needles.

To find all of the wonderful makers and patterns included in the blanket listed cumulatively over on Alexi’s blog, get the inside scoop on this unique project, along with all the details, click HERE.

Inspiration + Design

When it came time to design my square I knew I wanted to make something simple, therapeutic, and familiar. I love eyelet lace stitches and the way they add breatheability to a wool afghan like this one. So I went with the same eyelet stitch pattern as my Duo Poncho from last year!

I love all the textural squares on the crochet afghan and this easy square works up QUICK to offer some light contrast to the more dense stitches around it. I love that every designer brings something totally different to the blanket and it has so much personality!

Substituting yarns

For both the crochet and knit counterparts, we all used Lion Brand’s Wool-Ease, which is a medium weight 4 yarn. If you’re allergic to wool or have other yarns in your stash you’d like to use – go for it! Just use any worsted yarn and make sure to check your gauge. This blanket could be made in any colors, even multiple colors! Though I love that all the squares are in the same neutral because it makes this traditional sampler style afghan really modern and elegant.

PATTERN

Yarn

Lion Brand Wool Ease
(Weight 4/worsted, 3 oz/100g,  197 yds/ 180m)
Colorway: Natural Heather

Notions

-Size J 6mm Crochet Hook

-Darning needle

-Blocking mats and pins

Gauge

14 sts x 10 rows = 4″ in pattern

Notes

-This pattern is part of an ongoing project called the Traveling Afghans. See all the other squares, find the links to all other designer’s patterns, and make the entire sampler blanket here!

CROCHET TRAVELING AFGHAN SQUARE

Ch 34

Row 1: Starting in thrid chain from hook, Hdc across, chain two and turn <32>

Row 2: Hdc across

Row 3: Ch 3, sk 1 hdc st, hdc, *ch 1, sk 1, hdc; rep from * across, chain three and turn <16 hdc>

Row 4: sk 1 hdc st, hdc, *ch 1, sk 1, hdc; rep from * across. Finish last stitch with mc yarn, chain two and turn

Repeat Rows  1-4 until you’ve finished 24 rows.

Finish off, weave ends.

The shape of your square may be a slight bit slanted but this can be straightened out with blocking. I recommend soaking your square in a bit of wool wash or mild laundry detergent, pinning it to a blocking board (make sure it measures 10 x 10″ when blocking!) and letting it dry.

Sew square to the rest of your Traveling Afghans blanket with a mattress stitch for a seamless join.

The post Traveling Afghan Square – Crochet Eyelet Granny Square appeared first on Sewrella.

The Inspiration + Design

I could have just knit this hat in my size and called it a day, but where’s the fun in that?! For some reason, once the weather cools off all I can think about is a family set of chunky hats. Every year this thought passes through my mind and every year I never get around to making them. This year is different!

I wanted to create a very simple super bulky knit hats pattern that is beginner friendly and classic. It looks good in any super bulky yarn and on anyone’s head! My husband (who never wears knits) even said he’d like a blue one! Gasp!

These would also make wonderful handmade holiday gifts – I’m trying to get ahead on my gift giving plan so I actually have time to make all the super bulky knit hat projects I want to this year!

Sewrella Yarn

For this project I used some of my own hand dyed yarn (did you know I have my own hand dyed yarn company?!). We have a new base yarn called Classic Super that you can order any of our colorways on to knit this hat. One skein will make any size up to Adult Small – you would just need two skeins to make the Adult Medium or Adult Large.

I love this yarn because it is extremely soft and drapey, even for a yarn as chunky as this. It’s also super vibrant and the color is juuuuust right because of our artisanal hand dyed method! The colors I used in these super bulky knit hats samples are Lodge and Harvest that will be available in our Cozy Collection launch on October 1st at 8pm est!

One chunky hat, so many sizes

We’ve just started in on our cooler fall weather so what better time to knit family hats?! I made this pattern in 10 sizes ranging from Newborn all the way to Adult Large (and yes, I measured my husband’s giant head to make sure that size would fit him, ha!)

Hat sizing is always somewhat approximate and I’ve written the pattern to have a bit of a snug fit around the brim so it stays on the head with a bit more room in the body of the hat for a comfortable, warm fit. In the sizing list for these super bulky knit hats just choose the size that closely matches the actual measurement of the recipients head. I’ve built that fancy fit into the pattern.

Substituting different super bulky yarns

Although our yarn is beautiful, it can be hard to get your hands on. Our collections sell out in hours and we only launch once every month or so. If you just can’t wait to get started on these knit hats, I do have a couple of recommendations! Our Classic Super base is a Weight 6/Super Bulky weight yarn so any comparable yarn could be substituted in this pattern.

The tried and true classic of Super Bulky yarn is Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick. This yarn is perfectly suitable for this pattern and it’s sold at nearly every yarn retailer you can find. It’s inexpensive and has plenty of yardage to make an adult size hat or multiple kids size hats per skein. It comes in loads of colors and is an excellent option!

Another fun yarn substitution would be the newer Lion Brand Wool Ease Roving. It’s got a more singly ply feel like our own Classic Super hand dyed yarn but at a much more affordable price point. There are some gorgeous colors and it’s available at LionBrand.com here!

PATTERN

• Get the ad-free, large print, printable PDF pattern HERE.
• Grab the Ultimate Pattern Bundle that includes 150+ patterns just like this one on sale for $20 today HERE.
• PIN this pattern to your Pinterest boards for later HERE.
• Save to your Ravelry queue HERE.

Description

Simple, classic super bulky knit hats are the perfect cool weather accessory. Made in 10 sizes, these are perfect for the whole family!

Yarn

–Sewrella Yarn – Classic Super
(weight 5 / bulky, 3.5oz/100g, 76yds/69m)
Colorways: LODGE, HARVEST
See yardage below

Notions

-Size US 11 8mm circular knitting needles with a 16″ cord

(I love this set of interchangeable knitting needles for hat knitting)

–Set of 8mm DPNs

–Darning needle

–Faux fur pom pom (optional)

Gauge

10 sts x 18 rows = 4″ in stockinette

Sizes (head circumference) & Yardage

Newborn (13″) – 30 yds

3 month baby (16″) – 40 yds

6 month baby  (17″) – 46 yds

12 month baby  (18″) – 48 yds

2 years toddler (19″) – 58 yds

3-5 years child (20″) – 68 yds

6-10 years child (21″) – 70 yds

Adult Small (22″) – 76 yds

Adult Medium (23″) – 92 yds

Adult Large (24″) – 106 yds

Notes

-Head circumference listed above is the true measurement. Measure just above the ears and all the way around, then choose the size that closely matches this measurement from the sizing list above

-Pictured: Lodge sample in Child, Harvest sample in Adult Small

SUPER BULKY KNIT HATS

Newborn

CO 32, continue working in round
Rows 1-5: *K1, P1; rep from * around
Rows 6-16: K around
Row 17: *K2tog, K2; rep from * around, k2tog <24>
Row 18: K around
Row 19: K2tog, K1; rep from * around, K last two <16>
Row 20: K around
Row 21: K2tog around, K last st <8>
Row 22: K2tog around <4>
FO and pull to cinch, weave ends.

3 month baby

CO 36, continue working in round
Rows 1-6: *K1, P1; rep from * around
Rows 7-20: K around
Row 21: *K2tog, K2; rep from * around <27>
Row 22: K around
Row 23: K2tog, K1; rep from * around  <18>
Row 24: K around
Row 25: K2tog around <9>
Row 26: K2tog around, K last stitch <5>
FO and pull to cinch, weave ends.

6 month baby

CO 38, continue working in round
Rows 1-6: *K1, P1; rep from * around
Rows 7-22: K around
Row 23: *K2tog, K2; rep from * around, K last  <29>
Row 24: K around
Row 25: K2tog, K1; rep from * around, K2tog <18>
Row 26: K around
Row 27: K2tog around <9>
Row 28: K2tog around, K last stitch <5>
FO and pull to cinch, weave ends.

12 month baby

CO 40, continue working in round
Rows 1-6: *K1, P1; rep from * around
Rows 7-24: K around
Row 23: *K2tog, K2; rep from * around <30>
Row 24: K around
Row 25: K2tog, K1; rep from * around  <20>
Row 26: K around
Row 27: K2tog around <10>
Row 28: K2tog around, K last stitch <5>
FO and pull to cinch, weave ends.

2 Years toddler

CO 42, continue working in round
Rows 1-8: *K1, P1; rep from * around
Rows 9-26: K around
Row 27: *K2tog, K2; rep from * around, K last 2 sts <32>
Row 28: K around
Row 29: K2tog, K1; rep from * around, K2tog  <21>
Row 30: K around
Row 31: K2tog around, K last stitch <11>
Row 32: K2tog around, K last stitch <7>
FO and pull to cinch, weave ends.

3-5 Years child

CO 44, continue working in round
Rows 1-8: *K1, P1; rep from * around
Rows 9-29: K around
Row 30: *K2tog, K2; rep from * around <33>
Row 31: K around
Row 32: K2tog, K1; rep from * around <22>
Row 33: K around
Row 34: K2tog around, K last st <11>
Row 35: K2tog around, K last stitch <6>
FO and pull to cinch, weave ends.

6-10 Years child

CO 48, continue working in round
Rows 1-9: *K1, P1; rep from * around
Rows 10-32: K around
Row 33: *K2tog, K2; rep from * around <36>
Row 34: K around
Row 35: K2tog, K1; rep from * around  <24>
Row 36: K around
Row 37: K2tog around <12>
Row 38: K2tog around, K last stitch <6>
FO and pull to cinch, weave ends.

Adult Small

CO 52, continue working in round
Rows 1-10: *K1, P1; rep from * around
Rows 11-34: K around
Row 35: *K2tog, K2; rep from * around <39>
Row 31: K around
Row 32: K2tog, K1; rep from * around  <26>
Row 33: K around
Row 34: K2tog around <13>
Row 35: K2tog around, K last stitch <7>
FO and pull to cinch, weave ends.

Adult Medium

CO 56, continue working in round
Rows 1-10: *K1, P1; rep from * around
Rows 11-36: K around
Row 37: *K2tog, K2; rep from * around <42>
Row 38: K around
Row 39: K2tog, K1; rep from * around  <28>
Row 40: K around
Row 41: K2tog around <14>
Row 42: K2tog around <7>
FO and pull to cinch, weave ends.

Adult Large

CO 60, continue working in round
Rows 1-12: *K1, P1; rep from * around
Rows 13-40: K around
Row 41: *K2tog, K2; rep from * around <45>
Row 42: K around
Row 43: K2tog, K1; rep from * around  <30>
Row 44: K around
Row 45: K2tog around <15>
Row 46: K2tog around, K last stitch <8>
FO and pull to cinch, weave ends.

Abbreviations (US terms):

FO – finish off
k – knit
k2tog – knit 2 together decrease
p – purl
rep – repeat
st(s) – stitch(es)
<> – stitch count

OTHER FREE CROCHET BLANKET PATTERNS

1. Crochet Color Block Blanket / 2. Crochet Seedling Blanket / 3. Crochet Cake Stripe Blanket

The post Super Bulky Knit Hats appeared first on Sewrella.

The Inspiration + Design

I dyed some yarn for my most recent Sewrella Yarn hand dyed collection in the gorgeous colors Cruise and Lido Deck, they were just sitting on my shelf, begging to be used for something as stunning as they are. I loved dyeing these colors and I knew a two-sided, simple stitch blanket would be the perfect thing for them. Worked up on our Classic Bulky base yarn made the blanket squishy and luxurious with unbelievable drape.

This cruise crochet blanket is the epitome of luxe. It’s an heirloom piece for sure! I’ll just say this: if there’s a blanket you should splurge on and invest time in making, it’s this one.

Color Pooling made easy

You’ll notice in the photos of this crochet blanket pattern that the variegated yarn pools in a way that looks like waves or really soft, flowing striping. That’s not due to any fancy counting or technique, that’s just how our yarn works up when crocheted.

We work the right side of the blanket in one color and the wrong side in another color to get a two-toned effect and this helps the color to pool in the wavy look that you see here. You could get a similar effect using any of our pour dyed hand dyed yarn colorways.

Sewrella Yarn

I started hand dyeing my own yarn over two years ago and it’s now a flourishing business that I absolutely love working on! We host monthly collections, each one focused on a theme complete with variegated and solid colored yarns, speckled yarns and all different base yarns including the bulky yarn you see pictured here.

We also incorporate teas and house-made wool wash that are specific to each collection. Special edition teas that connect to the theme like key lime margarita in the summer and pumpkin chai in the fall to taste while scented wool wash connects a sense of smell to the collection like coconut grove or warm amber staycation.

Follow Sewrella Yarn on Instagram or get on our email list on the Sewrella Yarn Website to stay up-to-date when new collections launch!

One blanket, so many sizes

Although I am in love with this crochet blanket in the baby size, I have written this pattern to work for blankets of just about any size!

Within the pattern below you’ll find a table of blanket sizes that are included in the pattern as well as their measurements and the yardage required to make them (provided you’re using the yarn I used or a similar worsted weight yarn)

Yarn + Substitution

It’s easy to make this blanket in another chunky yarn – like Lion Brand Color Made Easy. This yarn is really widely available for a great price in a really pretty color palette. Any other category 5 bulky blanket could also be substituted fairly easily – even hand dyed yarn from other independent dyers too!

PATTERN

• Get the ad-free, large print, printable PDF pattern HERE.
• Grab the Ultimate Pattern Bundle that includes 150+ patterns just like this one on sale for $20 today HERE.
• PIN this pattern to your Pinterest boards for later HERE.
• Save to your Ravelry queue HERE.

Description

This cruise crochet blanket includes an easy free pattern using all my own gorgeous hand dyed yarn, written in 12 sizes!

Yarn

–Sewrella Yarn – Classic Bulky
(weight 5 / bulky, 3.5oz/100g, 219yds/200m)
Colorways: CRUISE, LIDO DECK
See yardage via table below

Notions

–Size 7mm Crochet Hook

–Darning needle

Gauge

7 sts x 12.5 rows = 4″ in hdc

Finished Size

Notes

–See chart above to choose the size blanket you’d like to make!

-See chart within pattern below to determine your number of foundation chains (A), row stitch count (B), and number of total row repeats (C).

-Chain stitches throughout the pattern do no count as a stitch, nor are they included in total stitch counts.

-Throughout this pattern you change color every row working all RS rows in Cruise and all WS rows in Lido Deck. This gives a two-tone, reversible effect!

-Substitute other yarns of any weight by using it’s recommended hook size and following the same stitch pattern with a foundation chain that’s the width of your desired blanket size and working row repeats until you’ve reached the length you desire. Alterations may affect yardage.

-Use worsted weight yarns following the yardage chart below. See “Yarn & Substitution” section above for additional guidance.

Special stitches

-Front Loop Only Hdc: make a half double crochet stitch working into the front loop only.

CROCHET OLD FASHIONED THROW BLANKET

With Cruise, Ch A (or any number +2), sk 2 sts.

Row 1 (RS): Hdc across, turn <B>

Change color to Lido Deck leaving 6″ tails from both yarns.

Row 2 (WS): Ch 1, FLO hdc, turn <B>

Change color to Cruise leaving 6″ tails from both yarns.

Rep row 2 until you’ve finished C rows, changing color every row as indicated.

Finish off & weave ends.

Abbreviations (US terms):

ch – chain
flo – front loop only
hdc – half double crochet
rep – repeat
rs – right side
sk – skip
st(s) – stitch(es)
ws – wrong side
<> – stitch count

OTHER FREE CROCHET BLANKET PATTERNS

1. Crochet Color Block Blanket / 2. Crochet Seedling Blanket / 3. Crochet Cake Stripe Blanket

The post Cruise Crochet Blanket appeared first on Sewrella.

I’d always heard of blogging, heck – I read a lot of blogs for recipes, crochet patterns, DIY ideas, and other things. I was a Pinterest junkie since way back when you had to be “invited” to have a Pinterest profile circa 2010 (anybody remember that?!). I’ve always been crafty and creative but I never had an outlet for it in a way that could make a large impact on my life. I just picked up random crafty hobbies throughout the years like sewing my own dresses out of quilting cotton and going crazy with creative Christmas gift wrapping.

I taught myself to crochet (and ultimately knit) on youtube while my great grandmother Betty was in the hospital with a failing heart. All there was to do was to sit around and wait for doctors and tests to tell us what we already knew: we were losing the matriarch of our family. I needed something to focus on and since Betty had been the craftiest lady I’d ever known (she never crocheted or knit but she did extensive cross stitch, embroidery, and TONS of sewing – including my mom’s bridesmaids’ dresses!) so I wanted to pick up a hobby that made me feel more connected to her before she was gone.

I remember wondering the craft store in a daze, looking for something I could do while waiting at the hospital. Sewing was out, I couldn’t bring a sewing machine to the waiting room. Cross stitch seemed too focused, I needed something more repetitive. Then I saw a skein of Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick on an endcap. The elusive fisherman colorway was in my hands before I knew it. I didn’t know to read the yarn label to see what hook size to buy so I picked up a Susan Bates N hook just because it was gold.

I went home and watched hours of youtube videos and learned the basic stitches. Before I knew it I had a scarf going and I haven’t stopped crocheting since. Betty passed away about a week later and I crocheted on the drive to and from her funeral services. In some ways it feels like I’ll crochet forever just to keep a piece of her with me.

Fast forward about two years later, as I am in college studying English Literature and working hard at craft coffee shops around town, all the while crocheting constantly. I was even called “grandma” lovingly by my other young coworkers. When I got pregnant with my partner of about seven years, it was a surprise and an awakening. I realized two things pretty quickly:

1. I didn’t love the life I was working toward. I had no desire to move up through the ranks at the coffee shop and I remained focused on school. But I was studying to eventually become an english teacher, a dream that didn’t feel like it quite fit. Although I loved books and learning, I always dreamed of doing something very creative with my life. I secretly hoped that I would write the great American novel while teaching and eventually slip out of that confined job. Though those are lofty expectations with a baby on the way and only a half finished english degree.
2. I needed a good paying job, and fast. Minimum wage plus tips wasn’t going to cut it and while by husband was busy building his business from the ground up (now a larger-than-life printing business) I needed to try to fill in the gaps.

While I was pregnant I knew I had a shot. A short window of a few months that I could dedicate to trying to build something. When my fall semester ended, I left school and the coffee shop with a dream and a crazy work ethic. I told myself this:

If I can make enough money to buy our groceries by the time the baby comes in May then I will keep going with whatever this creative idea turns out to be. And if it ever stops making money I will go back to my normal life.

But what creative idea do I run with? What could I turn into an income?

I’d been reading a lot of crochet blog over the last couple of years since I’d begun crocheting but even more so after I got pregnant as I made things for the baby. I thought to myself that these men and women that write these blogs just started them one day. They didn’t have any more training than I do now so let’s see if I can do the same thing. I’d already been making up some of my own patterns when I couldn’t find what I wanted online so I felt it could work.

I created my crochet blog website, Sewrella.com, on Christmas Day of 2015 (did I mention my crazy work ethic? Who starts a business on Christmas Day??). I spent the first several weeks figuring out how to post a crochet blog post and write a pattern, though I still had a lot to figure out on my own that took YEARS to master.

I worked diligently at creating patterns for my crochet blog, from scarves to granny square tutorials, and even intricate blankets. I worked seven days a week and I created dozens of crochet blog posts by the time the baby came in May. During that month I made $800 from my crochet blog and it was determined that I could keep blogging as long as it kept making money to help support my family.

Sewrella has earned more money every month since then as I’ve continued to build a repertoire of blog posts, tutorials, and designs even working with big companies like Lion Brand Yarn, JOANN, and Michaels Stores.

Oh yeah, back to walking down the streets of New York with Lion Brand – this was a little over a year after I started blogging. For some reason they saw my granny squares and my tenacity and though I deserved a seat at that table. I’m still not sure what potential they saw back then, since I still had SO much to figure out. But they saw it and they knew where I could go.

Over the last few years this crochet blog has turned into something I never thought possible. It’s afforded me a comfortable financial life – something that seemed so far out of reach when I found out I was pregnant without a concrete plan – and it’s given me the creative freedom that feeds my soul. It has not been without hard, consistent work but MAN has it been worth it.

After sharing my story, I’ve been asked a lot of specific questions about how I got from A to Z. How I went from starting my crochet blog on Christmas Day four years ago to making a six-figure income. The dos and don’ts of writing a crochet pattern. How to work with brands. How to take beautiful photos. How to use social media in ways that will amplify my blog instead of just waste time.

I’ve written a comprehensive online course that answers all of these questions and lots more, The Sewrella Method. I talk in depth about the big wins and the even bigger misses so that you don’t have to figure it out alone.

There is also a wonderfully engaged online forum called the Neighborhood that’s a place to talk with like-minded students about course content as well as your own personal journeys. It’s a place to ask questions, share ideas, and work together toward our own common goal of being amazing crochet bloggers.

If you aren’t sure, no sweat! Check out the chapter previews and course quiz on the Sewrella Method website to see if it’s a good fit. We’ll be here when you’re ready.

The post My Journey to Sewrella appeared first on Sewrella.

Read through my inspiration, design process, and lots of info on the perfect yarn I chose, or scroll on down for the free pattern.

The Inspiration + Design

It had been about a year since making my last crochet cardigan so I knew it was time for another! This time with lacy stitches and a flowy bohemian sleeve that’s cool and comfortable.

It was hard to choose what types of crochet lace stitches to use for this sweater. Being that we’re making a garment, I didn’t want to do anything too complicated just so that the pattern was easy to follow. I chose a simple V stitch for the bodice, some waist detail in simple double crochet with a simple fan stitch section at the hip. This same sequence is repeated in the sleeve and I love the extremely feminine, dainty look of the whole sweater!

Can a beginner really make this crochet cardigan?

I believe the answer is yes! I designed this cardigan to consist of only rectangle shaped pieces. If you are comfortable with the V stitch and fan stitches used in the pattern, you can make this project. There is no fussy shaping or increases/decreases to make it confusing. That drape and fit is all a product of the yarn I chose, not fancy shaping!

The Yarn

I chose to use Lion Brand Truboo for this project. It’s a newer yarn that launched earlier this year and I hadn’t gotten a chance to try it out yet so I used the Mauve skeins in my stash to work on my sweater! Let me tell you guys, this was absolutely the right yarn for this piece. It’s so silky and soft with excellent drape and movement. It’s extremely comfortable to wear as well as a pleasure to crochet with.

I can’t stress to you enough how much I LOVE the color palette of Truboo yarn. There are loads of options from dusty neutrals to bright summer tones so you can really choose a color to fit any style.

PATTERN

• Get the ad-free, large print, printable PDF pattern HERE.
• Grab the Ultimate Pattern Bundle that includes 150+ patterns just like this one on sale for $20 today HERE.
• PIN this pattern to your Pinterest boards for later HERE.
• Add this pattern to your Ravelry queue HERE.

Description:

An oversized lacy crochet cardigan for the summer months inspired by the delicate beauty of my garden. This project has just enough interest with two different lace stitches to keep it engaging without being complicated – it’s made entirely from rectangles! Lightweight Truboo yarn is silky and light on the skin with breathable texture to keep you cool and comfortable. Loose boho sleeves nod to the laid back look and are surprisingly easy to make.

Materials:

–Lion Brand Truboo yarn
(Weight 3/light, 3.5 oz/100g, 241 yds/220 m)

(5, 6, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 10) skeins in Mauve

Or (1120, 1290, 1450, 1570, 1800, 1980, 2220, 2410) yds

–Size H 5mm crochet hook

–Tapestry needle

–Measuring tape

Shop all of my favorite tools & materials HERE!

Sizes:

XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL

Gauge:

18 sts x 8 rows in dc = 4″

Finished Sweater Measurements:

Bust: (32, 36, 40, 42.5, 48, 52, 57.5, 61.5)
Length: (29.5, 30, 30.5, 31, 31.5, 32, 32.5, 33)
Sleeve (to underarm): (12.5, 13, 13.5, 14, 14.5, 15, 15.5, 16)
Armhole: (8, 8.5, 9, 10, 10, 10.5, 11, 11)

Skill Level:

Level 2 – Easy

Pattern Notes

-Sweater is shown in size M, model is 5’5” tall and true bust measures 38” for reference. This pattern has 10” positive ease built in. Size down for a more fitted look.

-Sizing listed in the pattern will be in XS, Small, Medium, Large, XL, 2XL, 3XL, and 4XL listed in parenthesis such as (95, 106, 117, 128, 139, 150, 161, 170) whereas 95 for size XS, 106 for size S, 117 for size M, 128 for size L, 139 for size XL, 150 for size 2XL, 161 for size 3XL and 170 for 4XL. When only one number is given, it applies to all sizes. To follow pattern more easily, print the pattern and circle/highlight all numbers pertaining to your size before beginning.

-Pattern is worked in flat panels from the top down – 1 back panel and 2 front panels. 2 identical sleeve panels that are all assembled in the final step.

-Ch 3 counts as a stitch throughout.

Hydrangea Crochet Cardigan

Back Panel
*make 1

V Stitch Section

Ch (74, 80, 92, 98, 110, 116, 128, 140)

Row 1: Skip 3 sts (counts as a stitch throughout), Dc in fourth ch from hook, ch 1, skip 2, (dc, ch 1, dc) in next stitch, *skip 2, (dc, ch 1, dc; rep from * until 4 stitches remain, ch 1, skip 2, dc in last 2 stitches, turn <52, 56, 64, 68, 76, 80, 88, 96 dc>

Row 2: Ch 3, dc, ch 1, skip to center ch 1 of V stitch, *(dc, ch 1, dc) into ch 1 space; rep from * in all V stitches across to last V stitch, ch 1, dc in last two stitches, turn

Rep row 2 until panel measures (13, 13.5, 14, 14.5, 15, 15.5, 16, 16.5)” or you’ve completed (26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33) rows.

Waist

Rows 1-2: Ch 2, dc in each st acrss (including all ch-1 spaces), turn <72, 78, 90, 96, 108, 114, 126, 138 dc>

Rows 3-4: Ch 3, dc, ch 1, *skip 2, (dc, ch 1, dc) into next stitch; rep from * until 4 stitches remain, ch 1, skip 2, dc in last 2 stitches, turn <52, 56, 64, 68, 76, 80, 88, 96 dc>

Rows 5-6: Ch 2, dc in each st acrss (including all ch-1 spaces), turn <72, 78, 90, 96, 108, 114, 126, 138 dc>

Fan Stitch Section

Row 1: Ch 2, dc in the first stitch, ch 2, skip 2, (2 dc, ch 1, 2 dc) in next stitch, *ch 2, skip 5, (2 dc, ch 1, 2 dc) in next stitch; rep from * until 3 stitches remain, ch 2, skip 2, dc in last stitch, turn <52, 56, 64, 68, 76, 80, 88, 96 dc>

Row 2: Ch 2, dc in first stitch, *ch 2, skip to center ch-1 of next fan stitch, (2 dc, ch 1, 2 dc) into ch-1 space; rep from * across, ch 2, skip to dc in last stitch, turn

Rep row 2 until panel measures 11.5″ or  23 rows.

Front Panels
*make 2

Ch (38, 44, 50, 50, 56, 62, 68, 71)

Repeat V Stitch, Waist and Fan stitch section as for back panel.

Sleeves
*make 2

Ch (80, 86, 92, 98, 98, 104, 110, 110)

Repeat V stitch section until panel measures (5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5)” or (10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17) rows.

Repeat all of Waist section.

Repeat Fan Stitch Section until panel measures 5″ or 9 rows.

ASSEMBLY

Shoulder seams: Lie back panel with wrong side up, lie front panels with wrong side up aligning the foundation chains to sew shoulder seams. Sew with a whip stitch. Weave ends.

Sleeve seams: Leaving front and back panels as they are, lie sleeve panels with wrong sides up on either side as pictured. Align center of the sleeves with shoulder seams by measuring the center or counting stitches in from each side. Place a stitch marker to keep this in place if you like. Sew with a whip stitch. Weave ends

Side seams: Fold sweater longways along the shoulder seam as pictured. It should look more like a cardigan now!

Sew with a whip stitch along the side seam, to the underarm, and along the sleeve seam. Weave ends.

Abbreviations (US terms):

ch – chain
dc – double crochet
sk – skip
st(s) – stitch(es)
<> – stitch count

OTHER FREE CARDIGAN PATTERNS

1. Crochet Everyday Cotton Cadigan / 2. Knit Betty Cardigan / 3. Crochet Slouchy Stripe Cardigan

The post Hydrangea Crochet Cardigan appeared first on Sewrella.

When I first started my blog, it was all crochet all the time. And while yarn is still my first and true love, there are a lot of things I consider my hobbies now and I love sharing them with you over on Instagram!

Over there I share everything from chocolate cake recipes to updates on my garden so I had an idea:

A weekly series with a short link roundup of all the things I’ve been enjoying that week.

These posts will be short and sweet – think a Buzzfeed list but with us crafters/moms/old souls in mind!

The Best Things on the Internet This Week

This smoothie that tastes like dessert has been awesome – even parker likes it!!

The video that taught me how to propagate my mint plants – and I’ve even done it successfully!

I got this yarn in the mail this week in the color Mahogany Rose and I love it so much.

I updated my online course with a module on April’s data on here on the blog – join the course here to gain access!

These hidden pictures sticker puzzles have kept parker busy this week and I love that he has to slowwww down to do them.

Here’s the new show I watched in less than a week – it was so good, just for adult eyes only!

I ordered this beach hat because someday I will go back to the beach and I can’t wait!

Stocked up on my FAVORITE baking ingredient ever, this vanilla bean paste. It’s good in everything, and it’s worth the money because it lasts a long time, I promise.

See ya back here next week!

The post Weekly Stitch appeared first on Sewrella.

A cute little crochet mint leaf!

I’ve been loving gardening lately, especially after being at home so much this year. I’ve started growing four different kinds of mint plants – peppermint, chocolate mint, sweet mint and spearmint!

I’ve been brewing lots of mint tea (recipe below!) with the cuttings from my plants and it inspired me to crochet some little mint leaves! I couldn’t find a pattern for any so I decided to make one up.

Uses for a crochet mint leaf

Little crochet accents like this are great for adding to larger projects. This leaf could be used alongside crocheted flowers for home decor projects like wreathes and tabletop arrangements or it could be sewn next to a crochet rose on a baby hat!

The possibilities are endless and patterns like this crochet mint leaf allow you to get creative.

The Yarn

I used some scrap green yarn I had hanging around – one that’s my own hand dyed yarn in a color from last fall called Lodge and the other is a bit of Lion Brand Heartland in the color Kings Canyon. You could use any yarn to make this crochet mint leaf, I would just reduce the hook size by two or three sizes from what the yarn label recommends to make sure your leaf is stiff enough to hold its shape.

PATTERN

• Get the ad-free, large print, printable PDF pattern HERE.
• Grab the Ultimate Pattern Bundle that includes 150+ patterns just like this one on sale for $20 today HERE.
• PIN this pattern to your Pinterest boards for later HERE.
• Add this pattern to your Ravelry queue HERE.

DESCRIPTION

Free crochet pattern for an accent crochet mint leaf. Use for wreathes or tabletop decor, or to adorn hats, scarves and blankets.

YARN

-Lion Brand Heartland – Kings Canyon
(weight 4 / worsted, 5oz/142g, 251yds/230m)

NOTIONS

–Size H 5mm crochet hook
–Darning needle

NOTES

Finished size: 3 x 2″

Chain stitches and slip stitches do not count as stitches throughout.

Crochet Mint Leaf

Round 1: Ch 6, slip stitch in second stitch from hook, sc, hdc, dc, 4 dc in last, turn slightly to work down other side of foundation ch, 3 dc in same stitch, dc, hdc, sc, slip stitch in last, ch 2, slip stitch to 1st stitch of the round to join <13>

Round 2: Ch 1, slip stitch in next stitch (without skipping any stitches), repeat around, slip stitch to join, finish off and weave ends

Abbreviations (US terms):

ch – chain
dc – double crochet
hdc – half double crochet
sc – single crochet
st(s) – stitch(es)
<> – stitch count

Fresh Mint Tea

1. Pick 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, wash, pat dry, add to teacup or mug
2. Bring water to rolling boil, pour over tea leaves
3. Steep ten minutes
4. Strain or spoon leaves out
5. Add a teaspoon of honey or sugar and stir. Enjoy!

Other Free Crochet Patterns for the Kitchen

1. Crochet Ruffled Trivet / 2. Crochet Double Thick Potholders / 3. Crochet Betty’s Coasters

The post Crochet Mint Leaf (+tea recipe!) appeared first on Sewrella.

When I first started my blog, it was all crochet all the time. And while yarn is still my first and true love, there are a lot of things I consider my hobbies now and I love sharing them with you over on Instagram!

Over there I share everything from chocolate cake recipes to updates on my garden so I had an idea:

A weekly series with a short link roundup of all the things I’ve been enjoying that week.

These posts will be short and sweet – think a Buzzfeed list but with us crafters/moms/old souls in mind!

The Best Things on the Internet This Week

The gardening video that taught me all about hydrangeas – now I have 6 in my garden!

The silky new yarn I’m loving.

The mojito recipe I made with fresh picked mint.

Parker’s birthday is coming up – we ordered this!!

The chai tea I’m obsessed with.

Where I’ve ordered all my plants online while social distancing.

This article has really been helping me deal with working from home with a small child.

Trying to pick colors for a new project and I loved this palette!

The free printable coloring pages that have saved my sanity. There are also super cute paid ones here and here – support small business!

See ya back here next week!

The post Weekly Stitch appeared first on Sewrella.

An easy crochet tote bag with a fun, thick stitch – my Fraîche Crochet Tote Bag – is a free pattern here on the blog! Read through my inspiration, design process, and lots of info on the perfect yarn I chose.

Grab the inexpensive PDF pattern here or scroll all the way down for the free pattern.

The Inspiration + Design

The Fraîche Crochet Tote Bag is one I’ve had on my list to make since late last summer. I’ve seen so many gorgeous crochet tote bags over the years but they’re usually stretchy and open. I wondered what a more structured tote might be like (one that could pass my laptop test! And it did, no sagging or stretching!). After making my thermal stitch potholders last fall I knew this stitch would make an incredibly durable crochet tote bag.

Fraîche is french for “fresh” in the feminine distinction and translates also to “dewy, crisp, youthful” and I feel like those concepts perfectly describe this bag design. It’s fresh and new in concept yet somehow classic and crisp. It’s the perfect mixture of new, on-trend elements while still being timeless. My favorite kind of design!

The straps are my favorite part – they’re all crochet so you don’t need to purchase hard-to-find purse straps and they’re easy to make. A simple tiny tube actually makes for a fairly durable and rigid strap – especially if you thread some macrame or parachute cord through the center to prevent against stretching even more (this part is optional). Threading the strap through simple eyelet holes in the body of the bag make assembly simple and the crochet tote bag is easy to use. One could even add rivets to the eyelet strap holes for even easier strap movement as you load and unload your crochet tote bag with goodies.

One crochet tote bag, so many uses!

In designing this crochet tote bag I wanted to make sure it could pass my “laptop test” – would it stretch out or sag with a heavy laptop inside? NOPE! It passed with flying colors! The rigid thermal stitch and the sturdy side seams supported the weight of my laptop perfectly. (Full disclosure: I have a 13″ Macbook air – so not the largest or heaviest laptop ever but I believe this bag would hold up well no matter what you load up inside!).

This crochet tote bag would also make an excellent farmer’s market companion. Filling with fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers is easy with its accessible body and incredibly thick structure. There is also quite a bit of privacy with this bag because the body isn’t see-through! Because let’s be honest – we all love to stop at the local bakery table at the farmer’s market and load up on chocolate croissants. Is that just me??

Simple and stunning construction

I wanted to make sure that this crochet tote bag design wasn’t too complicated. That’s why it’s made from one big rectangle! I believe that adventurous beginners can make this project – if you’ve already learned the thermal stitch by making my potholders or coasters, this bag is no more tricky than that!

We start by making one large thermal stitch rectangle with two eyelet holes at each end (don’t worry these are really just chain 1, skip 1 spaces). Then we fold it up and seam the sides, leaving a thermal stitch folded bottom for extra strength. Then the strap is made and threaded through the eyelet holes to be seamed into one continuous tube. That’s it!

I’ve also made sure to include lots of photos on the assembly of the bag, just to take care of my beginner crocheters out there!

The Thermal Stitch

I love love LOVE the thermal stitch. It’s become my favorite stitch for durable, rigid projects. Combine the stitch with a cotton blend yarn and you’ve got a recipe for heirloom projects that can handle regular use! Wahoo!

I have a full stitch tutorial with video here for those that are unfamiliar. I’ve also included a photo tutorial for this stitch below the written pattern at the end of this blog post.

Yarn + Substitution

I used Lion Brand’s Re-Up yarn in ecru, which is a worsted weight yarn. It’s a cotton polyester blend yarn that’s made from recycled water bottles! It’s a very unique yarn that comes in a lot of gorgeous, vintage-inspired colors and is extremely sturdy for projects like crochet tote bags, potholders, and coasters (all of which are free patterns here on the blog using the thermal stitch!). It’s also only $1.99 per skein so it makes for a great, affordable option. Or grab the kit in any color by clicking here!

A note on substituting yarns for this project: there is a lot of variation in the yarn industry within the world of worsted weight category 4 weight yarn. The best way I know to compare yarns of different origins, fiber contents, and brand are to look at the yardage per gram. On the yarn label for any yarn (from a big box store or from an independent dyer), the yardage for the ball or skein is listed.

The Re-Up yarn I used from Lion Brand is a 70 gram ball with 114 yards. 114/70=1.63 yards per gram.

I try to make sure any yarns I’m substituting are absolutely no more than 0.5 yards per gram difference from the yarn originally used in the pattern. The lower this number is, the closer these comparative yarns will be in gauge, resulting in a seamless finished project!

I do however recommend going with a cotton or cotton blend worsted weight yarn for this project, even if you don’t use Re-Up. The cotton is more stiff and rigid than other kinds of fiber meaning that your crochet tote bag won’t stretch very much when you fill it with goodies!

PATTERN

• Get the ad-free, large print, printable PDF pattern HERE.
• Grab the Ultimate Pattern Bundle that includes 150+ patterns just like this one on sale for $20 today HERE.
• PIN this pattern to your Pinterest boards for later HERE.
• Save to your Ravelry queue HERE.

Description

The ultimate crochet tote bag – simply classic in design with utilitarian functionality. Made-from-a-rectangle construction means adventurous beginners can make this crochet tote bag with ease. The thick thermal stitch offers rigidity and combats stretching. Make one for toting to the farmer’s market or a coffeeshop!

Yarn

–Lion Brand – Re-Up
(weight 4 / medium, 2.5oz/70g, 114 yds/105 m)
Color: ECRU – 8 skeins or 850 yds/778 m

Grab the kit in any color from Lion Brand here!

Notions

–Size 7mm Crochet Hook

–Size F 3.75mm Crochet Hook

–Darning needle

Gauge

12 sts x 12 rows = 4″ in pattern (thermal stitch, yarn held double)

Finished Size

12 x 14″ (excluding straps)

Notes

-Chain stitches throughout the pattern do no count as a stitch, nor are they included in total stitch counts.

-Substitute other yarns of any weight by using it’s recommended hook size and following the same stitch pattern with a foundation chain that’s the width of your desired bag size and working row repeats until you’ve reached the length you desire. Alterations may affect yardage.

-Yarn is held double throughout the pattern unless otherwise stated.

FRAÎCHE CROCHET TOTE BAG

With yard held double and 7mm crochet hook, ch 37, skip 1 stitch

Row 1: 3rd loop sc across, turn <36>

Row 2: Ch 1, BLO sc across, turn

Row 3: Ch 1, thermal sc across, turn

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Ashleigh Kiser (@sewrella) on May 4, 2020 at 12:44pm PDT

Row 4: Rep row 3

Row 5: Ch 1, thermal sc next 6 stitches, ch 1, skip 1 stitch, thermal sc next 22 stitches, ch 1, skip 1 stitch, thermal sc last 6 stitches, turn <34>

Row 6: Ch 1, thermal sc next 6 stitches, regular sc in skipped space, thermal sc next 22 stitches, regular sc in skipped space, thermal sc last 6 stitches, turn <36>

Row 7: Ch 1, thermal sc next 6 stitches, BLO sc in regular sc, thermal sc next 22 stitches, BLO sc in regular sc, thermal sc in last 6 stitches, turn

Note: Eyelet hole made by ch 1, skip 1 may look somewhat hidden. Place a stitch marker near the hole in case you’re worried you won’t be able to find it later.

Rows 8-80: Rep Row 3

Rows 81-83: Rep Rows 5-7

Rows 84-86: Rep Row 3

Row 87: Slip stitch through both top loops of the stitch and the stitch we work into from the row below, rep across

Finish off, weave ends.

Strap

With a single strand of yarn and F 3.75mm crochet hook, ch 6, skip 1 stitch

Row 1: Sc across <5>

Row 2: Wrap strip of sc into a loop and sc into the first stitch from Row 1, work sc in the round

Continue working sc in the round until your strap measures 50″ long or the desired length of your entire strap piece.

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing, do not weave ends.

Assembly

Fold large rectangle with right sides together to seam up sides. Take care to align foundation chain and last slip stitch row. With a long piece of scrap yarn (held double) seam selvedge edges with a mattress stitch, pulling each stitch tight as you sew to create a strong seam. Weave ends to secure. Turn inside out (optional).

Thread unfinished strap through the eyelet holes created (these should match up) as pictured. You may thread a bit of macrame cord through the strap for added structure to prevent stretch but it’s not necessary. With a tapestry needle, sew two ends of the strap together with a whip stitch to form one continuous tube strap. Weave ends to secure.

Abbreviations (US terms):

BLO – back loop only
ch – chain
rep – repeat
sc – single crochet
sk – skip
<> – stitch count

OTHER FREE THERMAL STITCH PATTERNS

1. Crochet Double Thick Potholders /2. Textured Crochet Coasters/ 3. Fraîche Crochet Tote Bag

The post FRAÎCHE Crochet Tote Bag appeared first on Sewrella.

An easy crochet blanket with a fun, new stitch – my Crochet Old Fashioned Throw Blanket – is a free pattern here on the blog! Read through my inspiration, design process, and lots of info on the perfect yarn I chose. Or scroll on down for the free pattern.

The Inspiration + Design

I had a stash of Lion Brand’s Touch of Cashmere yarn in the gorgeous color Brandy, just sitting on my shelf, begging to be used for something as stunning as she is. When I came across this mini bean stitch, I knew this yarn would be the perfect thing for it. This stitch worked up in any yarn will create a squishy fabric and a drape like you’ve never seen. But then combine it with this also very squishy, soft, dreamy yarn – and you’ve got a match truly made in the crochet heavens.

This crochet old fashioned throw blanket is just warm and cozy enough, as well as light enough to use year round. I’ll just say this: if there’s a blanket you should splurge on and invest time in making, it’s this one.

One blanket, so many sizes

Although I am in love with this crochet old fashioned throw blanket in the throw size, I have written this pattern to work for blankets of just about any size!

Within the pattern below you’ll find a table of blanket sizes that are included in the pattern as well as their measurements and the yardage required to make them (provided you’re using the yarn I used or a similar worsted weight yarn).

Another fun aspect of this blanket is that you can sort of create your own crochet old fashioned throw blanket! Using yarn of any weight, you can just follow the pattern making the foundation chain as wide as you’d like your blanket to be and continuing with row repeats until it’s long enough.

You could make it in a solid color like I did here, or create a striped pattern, a two-tone stripe effect – anything goes. The crochet old fashioned throw blanket is totally customizable and my favorite kind of project!

The Mini Bean Stitch

This fun stitch creates a beautiful, drapey finished piece that I am just in love with. It’s really simple and easy to learn – then you just repeat it for the whole blanket! So once you get the hang of the stitch, this crochet old fashioned throw blanket is the perfect Netflix-able project. Watch my video tutorial below to make the pattern, or apply it to your own unique project!

Yarn + Substitution

I used a blend of Lion Brand’s Touch of Cashmere in Brandy, which is a worsted weight yarn.

A note on substituting yarns for this project: there is a lot of variation in the yarn industry within the world of worsted weight category 4 weight yarn. The best way I know to compare yarns of different origins, fiber contents, and brand are to look at the yardage per gram. On the yarn label for any yarn (from a big box store or from an independent dyer), the yardage for the ball or skein is listed.

The Touch of Cashmere yarn I used from Lion Brand is an 100 gram ball with 219 yards. 219/100=2.19 yards per gram.

I try to make sure any yarns I’m substituting are absolutely no more than 0.5 yards per gram difference from the yarn originally used in the pattern. The lower this number is, the closer these comparative yarns will be in gauge, resulting in a seamless finished project!

PATTERN

• Get the ad-free, large print, printable PDF pattern HERE.

• Grab the Ultimate Pattern Bundle that includes 150+ patterns just like this one on sale for $20 today HERE.

• PIN this pattern to your Pinterest boards for later HERE.

• Save to your Ravelry queue HERE.

Description

This crochet old fashioned throw blanket includes an easy free pattern and video tutorial featuring the mini bean stitch in 12 sizes!

Yarn

–Lion Brand – Touch of Cashmere
(weight 4 / medium, 3.5oz/100g, 219yds/200m)
Color: BRANDY
See yardage via table below

Notions

–Size 7 4.5mm Crochet Hook

–Darning needle

Gauge

7 sts x 12.5 rows = 4″ in pattern (mini bean stitch, see below)

Finished Size

Notes

–See chart above to choose the size blanket you’d like to make!

-See chart within pattern below to determine your number of foundation chains (A), row stitch count (B), and number of total row repeats (C).

-Chain stitches throughout the pattern do no count as a stitch, nor are they included in total stitch counts.

-Substitute other yarns of any weight by using it’s recommended hook size and following the same stitch pattern with a foundation chain that’s the width of your desired blanket size and working row repeats until you’ve reached the length you desire. Alterations may affect yardage.

-Use worsted weight yarns following the yardage chart below. See “Yarn & Substitution” section above for additional guidance.

Special stitches

-Mini Bean Stitch: insert hook in next stitch, pull up a loop, yarn over, insert hook back into the same stitch, pull up a loop (4 loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all loops, ch 1, skip one stitch, and repeat sequence.

CROCHET OLD FASHIONED THROW BLANKET

Ch A (or any number +2), sk 2 sts.

Row 1: Mini bean st across, turn <B>

Row 2: Ch 1, mini bean st across, turn <B>

Rep row 2 until you’ve finished C rows.

Finish off & weave ends.

Abbreviations (US terms):

ch – chain
rep – repeat
sk – skip
st(s) – stitch(es)
<> – stitch count

OTHER FREE CROCHET BLANKET PATTERNS

1. Crochet Color Block Blanket / 2. Crochet Seedling Blanket / 3. Crochet Cake Stripe Blanket

The post Crochet Old Fashioned Throw Blanket appeared first on Sewrella.