Crocheted Kewpie and Baby Cradle PurseThe original pattern I found on the Thrifty Fun website. I printed it in hopes of making it someday. They are just so adorable and turned out so cute.
How to Crochet the Perfect Diamond ShapeI love making triangles. It's mindless and so versatile. But as much as I love increasing my one per row, I detest decreasing. Let me know how you the difference in how I do it vs. the patterns.
Oklahoma Sooners Afghan Square Crochet PatternHere is the pattern for an Oklahoma University afghan square I made up.
Crochet Bodice DressesI'm doing needlework combined with my crochet for an income while I'm job hunting. I call it "little things" because it's a variety of things I create.
Crocheting with Three Strands of YarnI love to mix yarns for projects, but they can get tangled and who needs that?
So, I found a flat basket from the Dollar Tree, and using three mushroom containers, I came up with this.
Champagne Cork Crochet Hook SaversTo prevent dropped crochet hooks from rolling under furniture, getting lost in seat cushions, or even under the bucket seats in a car, drill a small hole in a champagne cork with your wine bottle opener and stick the end of a crochet hook in it. When it drops it stays in place.
Cross Stitch Patterns for CrochetTired of looking for crochet patterns in all the same places? I found cross stitch patterns are very easy to use. Each square is a single crochet. When changing colors, just place the one you aren't using on top of previous row and crochet over it until you need the color again.
Using Colored Stitch Markers as Hook Size IndicatorsI have over 200 plastic stitch markers from China (cheaper that way and they seldom snag the yarn). Someone showed me to mark a few of them with hook sizes (G, H, I, J). Some ladies put the metric size (4.00, 4.5, 5.00, 5.5). This helps to remember what size hook you are using with a project when you have multiple projects going at once.
Using Yarn Scraps for Crochet AfghansI crochet afghans for a charity so I have lots of yarn on hand. I sometimes end up with short end pieces of yarn and use to throw them away. Now I save them, join them together and end up with my own variegated yarn. No waste now for what I once considered throw aways. Most of my afghans are granny squares so it works great color-wise.
Crocheted Hanging Dish TowelsWhen I was a young girl my aunt always had one of these hanging on the stove and fridge. I use the whole towel; some like to cut it in half, but it looks nice with the whole towel. I only use 100% cotton yarn. I use Sugar and Cream crochet thread.
Monogramming Crocheted ItemsI have recently started doing monogramed dishcloths and washrags. I stitch the letter by hand on the item, secure with a knot, then I crochet along the line. This makes it so pretty to hang up to dry ;)
Yarn Cozy PocketI love blue jeans pockets. I sewed two strips of fabric to a pocket, salvaged from a pair of jeans, and put Velcro on the ends. Now my yarn holds it's own crochet hook and scissors :)
Crochet Peeking Cat Butt CoasterThis was a cute little craft I found for free, but I won't be telling you how to make it. I promised the lady who created the pattern I would share a link to her free pattern. Fair is fair. When you make it, its fun and fast. It took me less than an hour.
Use Mod Podge for Crochet Knots or FraysI am at all times crocheting something. Right now I am crocheting sports scarfs for a non-profit community organization. And often after I wash them you can see the ends where you change colors. The knots in the yarn. They are difficult to hide. I found a better way of disguising them.
Granny Square Afghans from Leftover YarnI enjoy making afghans for a charity group called Project Linus. I make large granny square afghans out of the scrap yarn and add to my squares as I get new colors from the donations. It is fun to try to coordinate the color scheme or just to add colors to get a new pattern.
Bread Ties To Store Correct Crochet Hook SizeI like to work on multiple projects when crocheting and would use the same hook for whatever I was working on. When I went back to the project I would forget what size hook I was using. I started using bread ties and wrote the crochet hook size on the tie and attached it to the afghan I was working on.
Keeping Track of Crochet Chain LengthRecently, I did a project where I had to count stitches to make sure the chains were all the same length. Well, they sure weren't. I often have to compete with visiting kids and their video games, radios, videos, dogs...you name. It is hard to find quiet.
Crochet Hook Storage TowerThis craft just won 3rd place for Crocheted/Other at the State Fair here in Salem. It's a fun craft you can make with any scrap yarn.
Crochet Cluster Stitch That Uses Less YarnI was making a hat using the cluster stitch, and I was worried that I would not have enough yarn. The regular cluster stitch uses 3 yarn overs then pull through 4 loops. We'll I left off 1 of the yarn overs and pulled through 3 loops.
Jacob's Ladder Crochet AfghanI made this afghan up in just a couple of weeks choosing my own color combination. The main stitch used is double crochet (dc) and a multiple of ten chains between (dc) groups of ten.
Bread Closures for Marking Crochet Needle SizeI had heard of using the tags/closures for bread packages to mark your projects while knitting or crocheting, but came upon another use for the little white tags while crocheting.
Lacy Accent DoilyFirst of all let me say I did not come up with this pattern. I got it off the internet. But I did modify it as I didn't like the way rows 30-36 were done in the original pattern (too much tying off and fastening back on 24 pineapples).
Almost Free Crocheted "Plarn" ItemsI was able to keep the cost down when providing table favors for an event needing 20 items. The solution was to use 'plarn' to make the favors. Plarn is strips of recycled plastic grocery type bags that you use instead of crochet thread or yarn.
Crochet Tube SocksFor socks that will fit just right, make a tube sock. They are easy. Measure the person's foot around just above the toes, then measure the length of the foot and add 4 inches.
Wrapping Hangers With YarnI just crochet a very very long chain. Then, even if it's too short, it can be added to and continued. I put some hot glue to the base of the "hook" and wait for it to cool. Then, you simply wrap it around, gluing every 4-6" until it's all the way around and meeting up with the other end.
Crocheted Calypso CardiganThis is a cardigan/vest I crocheted for my daughter. I made it with Red Heart Super Saver yarn in white and light blue. It is the first piece of adult clothing I have made besides numerous shawls.
Turn Plastic Grocery Bags Into PlarnThe most effective was to reuse plastic grocery bags that I do is make them into plarn, then into useful items like cell holders, lunch bags, purses, even a bingo bag for my one co-worker!
Making A Crocheted Kitchen TowelIt doesn't matter what pattern you use for the first rows connecting to the towel, but you want to make sure you make the long flap (where the button is) long enough to fit around the hook, towel rack, or stove handle where you are planning to hang the towel.
Paint Can Pin CushionI don't have much room on my work table, so today while making a wreath, I needed a place to stick a needle. I thought of setting my pin cushion on top of the paint can, then thought it needs one of it's own.
Reinventing the Granny SquareI make these and sell them, but hate to block. After months of pondering whether this will work, I finally got the time tonight to try it and yes, it does.
Remembering Crochet Hook Size on ProjectsI usually have a half dozen or so crochet projects going all at once, and sometimes don't recall the size hook I was using. I've started keeping the plastic bread closing tabs and writing the hook size on it and attaching it to my project during construction.
Use Cotton Yarn to Make Crocheted TowelsI've found that Lily Sugar 'n Cream 100% cotton yarn is much more durable than acrylic yarn, since towels are laundered so much. I make quite a few crocheted wash cloths and dish cloths using the cotton yarn.
How To Store Crochet DoiliesI love to crochet doilies with #10 thread and #6 crochet hook. I block them, then when thoroughly dry, place on a paper plate. I have about 10 stacked each on a paper plate on top of each other, stored in a cupboard.
Crocheting With Plastic BagsMy dad's new wife just showed me how to re-use plastic grocery store bags. She folds them into four length wise then cuts the bottom off. Working your way up, you cut about one inch strips until you get to the handles.
Crochet On Road TripsWhenever we travel, should it be a short distance or a vacation, I crochet while my husband drives. Believe me, crocheting goes really fast. There are not as many interruptions such as a TV or excessive talking, because my husband must concentrate on driving.
Crocheted Pot ScrubberI crocheted a pot scrubber. I did not like the yarn I had, so I made this. It turned out so pretty, I almost didn't use it with the dishes at all.
Crochet Using Old SocksFor socks, I cut the toe off and cut the sock in circles about an inch wide. You can interlace them, roll them into a ball, and use them as you would use crochet cord; making whatever you want - rugs, slippers, even throws.
Crocheted Beach Bag From Plastic Grocery BagsI keep our plastic grocery bags and re-use them, but sometimes we get way too many to keep around. I fold them flat and cut strips of plastic circle and intertwine them.
Cookie Cottages From Tin CansWhen using the coffee plastic cans or even the metal ones, I make cookie cottages out of them, and give them as gifts, with home made goodies inside.
Easy Crochet Chain StitchThis is about crocheting a loose and easily decorated chain stitch: If you have trouble making your beginning chain loose and stretchy enough, switch to a hook at least one up to three sizes larger than the hook you need for your pattern.
Craft: Swiffer "Cozy" Pad ReplacementI recently made a Swiffer Cozy for my Swiffer to replace the dry Swiffer cloths I buy. I think it qualifies as the ugliest Swiffer Cozy ever, but it used up leftover yarn I had and, it is very functional.
Multicolor Afghan And Matching PillowIf you know how to crochet a basic granny square this afghan and matching pillow are very easy to make. After crocheting the pillow squares together with black yarn, I took a measurement of both panels.
Use a Post-it to Keep Your Place in a Crochet PatternIf you always lose your place reading a crochet pattern, keep a 3x5 inch Post-it pad handy. Stick a note on the row you're working on. You can use the note to write on too!
Crocheted Chain Craft IdeasWhen you have made your chain, you simply have to get a hook bigger than you did the chain with and pick a project. For instance, for a hot pad, make a chain the size of the work you want to do, in an even amount, then make a single crochet in the second chain from the hook.
Recycled Plastic Can CozyCut plarn from recycled plastic bags to crochet can cozies. I made this up as I went along so I don't have a pattern to share.
America Freedom FlagThis is an America Freedom curtain. It was crocheted in 7 panels. Each of the red panels has a word or phrase embedded in it. I used filet crochet to do this. Since it is to go in my husband's tractor trailer, I put his CB handle in the middle panel.
Plastic Canvas Crochet Trinket BoxI wanted to see if I could crochet on plastic canvas without any sewing and ended up with this trinket box made on 5-mesh plastic canvas. I used a size D crochet hook so it would fit through the holes and worsted weight yarn.
Mix Different Types of YarnIn a knitting blog, I read about acrylic yarn being a low-cost option. Well, it is - and to make it more interesting in small projects you can mix it with other yarns, even wool ones.
Crochet Squares In Waiting RoomsWhenever I know I'm going someplace (like the doctor's appt I have today!) I always take a small carry-all with me that has a small amount of yarn and a crochet hook. If I need a pattern, I copy it on my scanner and print it out to take with me.
End Cap for Crochet HookI am moving soon, and taking a lot of craft supplies with me. I wanted all my hooks in this handy clear eyeglass case and this one wouldn't fit. I hacksawed it down to the right size, but didn't want my hook to snag on anything.
Crochet Beaded Hair ScrunchiesFor all of you who have already crocheted everything you can think of as gifts for your friends and relatives, here's something new and fun to make for them! It's a beautiful pattern I've designed myself for beaded hair scrunchies which I'd like to share with you.
Leftover Yarn for Pet ProjectsDogs and cats always enjoy getting something new, whether it's a blanket or toy. I crochet quilts and always have yarn left over. Each time there is yarn left over, even a piece 10 inches long, it is tied to the end of another leftover.
Knitting and Crochet TipsA while back, a woman asked about how to knit or crochet. Here is what you do. You make a loop with your yarn and place it on your knitting needle, that will be your lead needle.
Crocheted PotholdersThese potholders are thick and safe, so long as you crochet tight stitches. If you use a larger hook, you may get air spaces where the hot pan can burn your fingers. If a size H hook is too loose, get an F or G hook. We all crochet at different tensions.
Store Crochet Hooks in an Eyeglass CaseI like to crochet while traveling and I've found the perfect container for storing my many crochet hooks is in an empty eyeglass case. These cases fit perfectly inside my purse or my car's glove box.
Simply Patriotic AfghanThe crocheted afghan will be donated to the V.V.A. (Vietnam Veterans of America) Scholarship Program for next year. At the present time I'm working on a second afghan for V.V.A.
Crocheting a Rug from Scrap FabricsI have a rather large fabric collection. We decided to paint our new bathroom a pumpkin color. It looks very nice, but hard to match for accessories. So, I decided to crochet a rug using my left over fabric.
Try Tobacco String Instead of Crochet ThreadWhen crocheting things like a bed spread, you can buy tobacco string and use it like crochet thread. It comes on a cone and a lot cheaper then the crochet thread.
Thrifty Crocheted Soap ScrubberBuy 100% polyester yarn or use your acrylic yarn scraps. You will be making an enclosed "pillow case" out of the polyester yarn. Start by crocheting a chain that's about 3 inches long.
Crochet Wire Hanger CoversI have a pattern for crocheting wire hanger covers. The pattern is simple. Use two wire hangers tied together by the hook.
Knifty Knitter Purse for a Little GirlI was practicing some stitches while learning to crochet. I had a little crocheted piece about 5 inches wide and 12 inches long in a pale yellow. I just had thrown it aside. I got to looking at it today and decided to fold it in half longwise and stitch up long sides in matching yarn.
Working with Dark Colored YarnsI am the owner of a Yahoo craft group and help to lead a local community craft group in Frankfort, Kentucky. In our area group and on our web site, we always try to help each other make projects become a little more enjoyable to make.
Adapting Crochet Patterns For DollhousesI joined ThriftyFun today. I was looking at the craft projects and was impressed with the ideas for dollhouse decor. I am an accomplished dollhouse creator and have been making dollhouses for about 50 years.
Using a Soda Bottle for YarnIf you knit or crochet, an empty 2-liter soda bottle is useful. Cut off the bottom and place a skein of yarn into it, after you've started the skein from the middle, and feed the yarn through the bottle neck.
Knee-Highs and Yarn as Filling MaterialFor crochet projects that need filling: Give old knee-highs a new life. Use them as filling material.
Travel Toothbrush Holders For Crochet HooksI bought some of those long toothbrush travel holders, they're great for crochet hooks.
Crochet Tote BagI came up with this pattern for a crocheted purse! Sorry can't post a pic, but it is really cute!
Making Crochet Hooks Easier to HandleTo make crocheting easier for people with arthritis or other joints and muscle aches, slip a large bead over the handle of the smaller crochet hook to grip onto rather than trying to hold the tiny needle.
Basic Crochet Abbreviations ChartHere are some basic crochet abbreviations:
Granny Square AfghanEvery year after the holidays, I choose a project to help fill the long winter evenings while watching my favorite TV programs. This is the end result of last winter's project. It is king size and it took 64 twelve inch granny squares to complete.
Holder for Crochet HooksThose cheap plastic pens with caps make great travel containers for your fine crochet hooks. Just remove the "pen" part and pop in your hook.
Crocheted Christmas AngelsThese are some Christmas angels I make. There is no real pattern to them, no count, so they're each a little different.
No Lost Stitches When CrochetingAnother reader's tip reminded me of this, when putting my crocheting down, I enlarge the loop that was on the needle and tie a loose knot with the yarn hanging off the needle. Keeps me from losing stitches when moving the item around.
Avoiding Losing Stitches Crochet TipJust today after about 45 years of crocheting! I was at the end of a row and was starting to pull the yarn up so it wouldn't easily pull out until I got back to working on my pineapple afghan that I was making; I saw my "clover" plastic safety pin that I use to mark stitches when knitting . . .
Green Bay Packers DoilyThis is my own design Packers doily, I crocheted it myself. I do enjoy crocheting. I've been doing it for years since I was a teen. I do sell lots of them for my friends. We all love the Green Bay Packers here in Wisconsin.
Crochet Ball HolderInstall a toilet paper roll holder on the edge of your craft table to hold your crochet balls. It makes it easy to dispense yarn as your work on your project. If you want to use more than one color at the same time, you can install a more than one toilet paper holder.
Crocheting Warm BlanketsI love to have thick, warm blankets in the winter, but they are often expensive. So what I did was to have a friend teach me to crochet. At first I could only pick up the single stitch and then learned more a little at a time.
Making Yarn SparkleRub yarn in glitter to make it sparkle. Great to use for kids' craft Christmas ornaments.
Use Coffee Can To Store YarnWhen I'm getting ready to knit or crochet something I take a small coffee can and put a hole in the lid, drop my ball of yarn in and feed the loose end through the hole before casting on my stitches.
Make Drinking Glass Sweaters with Excess YarnI just saw an interesting tip on how to use up excess yarn by making baskets. Well, I use my excess yarn by making drinking glass sweaters. They are excellent for sweating glasses in the summertime.
No More... Getting Lost in the PatternMy mother is in her eighties, and was crocheting an afghan of cats. The pattern consisted of about 8 rows, each one different, and then a repeat of these 8 rows. She kept getting lost in the pattern, so I took index cards and printed each row of the pattern on a separate index card.
Crocheting On The GoI do a lot of crocheting on the go, I try to have a bag with a project ready to go for when I'm riding in the car, or bus or plane, or waiting in the doctor's office and so on. I found it was really easy to lose the patterns.
Cake Cardboard For Blocking Crocheted DoiliesI make a lot of crocheted doilies and when it comes time to block them I use the cardboard from cakes that I have purchased and saved. This cardboard has a shiny surface on one side so the doilies do not stick.
Crochet Baby Changing PadThis is a nice gift to include with a diaper bag and the dimensions can be made to fit rolled up into the new diaper bag or it can be used as a stand alone gift.
Granny Square CheckerboardWith leftover yarn create enough squares to make a checkerboard. Save and clean cat food cans or tuna fish cans (enough for 2 sets of checkers). Paint cans first with primer.
Beautiful Wooden Crochet Hook CaddyMake a crochet caddy as a gift or for yourself.
