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Friday, January 24, 2014

Moroccan Cowl Crochet Pattern by Moogly Review



I've been following the Moogly blog for awhile now. She has some really great crochet designs, tutorials and more. I've learned a lot of unique technics that I love! 

She recently posted the Moroccan Midnight Cowl and I knew I had to make it! I just happened to have a skien of Boutique Midnight on hand. So I decided to make it! It was a very well written pattern and comes out lovely! So many photos and videos to help you along the way so you don't get stuck. I confused myself at first but it's was just me and it was late.  

I love the peeks of sparkle and the size it just right! I used the color way Moonlight and I Love This Yarn in Antique teal. The blue hues don't pop as much as the more colorful skeins so I just might have to make another! I like the warmer jewel tones and pops of color changes without much work . 



She also just posted a hat to match! So go make yourself an awesome set! 

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Crocheting and Calories


This is more of a personal post, just thought I'd warn you up front and don't worry. I won't post a ton of weight-loss and fitness stuff. Just wanted to share my heart a little. 

I'd talked the other day about crochet goals, business goals, and family goals. 

Monday I decided I needed to make some healthy goals for myself. It seems so obvious to make a weight loss challenge in January but see I've not tried in years. Really basically since I had my kids and gained too much weight. Life got busy, business was good and I didn't really make time to really focusing on me, but I think that is okay for that season in my life. There comes a time when you have to dig down and work on yourself too! 

Hubby is pretty active and working to get fit, so it's my time to get off that couch! 

Goal one. Turn that TV off! 
- Netflix is a time suck seriously! I mean we all want to bing watch our favorite shows and it's easy to do when you have to crochet!
 I'm turning to music or just enjoying the quite, thinking & praying instead. 

Goal two. Eat & Drink healthy. 
I HATE to cook and bake. I don't enjoy it and everyone in my house is so picky. So trying new things isn't something we enjoy, but I think we can make it work. I'm going to do a lot more shopping on those outer isles of the grocery store and avoid the many isles of food that don't need to be eaten. 

My mom does a lot of smoothies so I'm going to try more smoothies too! I made some green ones today. Calleigh and I both enjoyed our yummy healthy breakfast! 

I tend to really only drink coffee and water so that's not really hard to change. I've not really been drinking pop for about a year. Just one occasionally and its usually diet. I'm finding I've lost my taste for pop! Flavored water is what gets me through! 

Goal Three: Activity and Exercise
I'm trying to get at least 30 minutes a day of activity! I'm very very out of shape! You know what I do because I HATE Gyms and I'm a homebody! I use my X-Box Kinect! I love the Adventure game! It gets me moving. It's silly I know but I have to enjoy what I'm doing. Calleigh likes to join in with me too! If it's not exercise then I don't know why my legs feel like noodles today! LOL. It's a start to get me moving!! 
I have some other work out games I'm going to wash the dust off and try again too! 
We didn't have a lot of space for this before but I do now so no excuses with this new house! 

What's making this easier for me?


Hubby got us both Bracelets called FitBit. I thought it was silly at first but I really think it's a tool that will help keep me in check and I always have a reminder on my arm! 

The bracelet keeps track of your steps. You can set up reminders and alarms and it vibrates. 
With the App I track all my food, water, & activities. So now I have a plan to count calories, know what I've burned and see how many I have left. I also set up a plan just for me. 
I have goals and it helps me track them from the app on my phone or online. 

It's social too because I can add friends, like my hubby. I even found a group with crocheters who also do fitbit! 

Just incase your wondering you do burn calories while you crochet! I couldn't find the exact number but it ranges from 100-200 per hour. I'm sure that just depends on what you are making. 

Well that's my goals! So far I've lost 2bls. but it's only the beginning of a long journey! I'll keep you posted when I hit some major goals! I need cheerleaders!! 
So feel free to leave motivational comments, encouragement's or share your story! I'd love to hear about it! 







Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Mini Mystery CAL from Merry Messy Life Part #2

I'm really having fun with this  Mini Mystery Crochet-A-Long hosted by Merry Messy Life.
I finally got around to finishing part 2. Eight little hearts. I was going to make 2 of each color but I ran out of green. I left long tails on most of mine for now since I'm not sure how these will be arranged when we get to part 3. This is turning out to be lovely! I can't wait to put it all together! I think whatever it is. It will be cute in my craft loft. It need more crochet decor. Which is what I'm guessing this is.


You can find the instructions here for Part 2 

You can also read more of my Part 1 here


Do you like CAL? I do!




Monday, January 20, 2014

New- Heirloom Hearts Tiara and Doily Set Crochet Pattern

Introducing my newest design. The Heirloom Hearts Tiara and Doily Set! 



You can find this in your favorite shop on Sale of $2.99 Jan 20-22nd. 
No coupon needed. Expires Jan 22nd midnight central. 


The Doily prop can be used as a cape to drape over the baby, used as a basket detail, or underneath the baby.
Its a prop that can be use other ways than just baby. After you are done getting those special photos use the doily on tables or put it in a frame or shadow box as wall decor.
The Doily makes a great home decor items!
You can easily use any yarn or hook size to make these doily’s smaller or bigger for just the right look of course exact details are given in the pattern for the Newborn size.

If your not familiar with my other Doily Sets. Check them out! It will give you some ideas of how to use them as props! Hopefully I'll get some proffesional pics soon of this set! 


I can't wait to see your projects! Enjoy!! 

Sunday, January 19, 2014

Twisted Knit Project


Sometimes you just need to switch it up! I don't knit often. I forced myself to learn more about it last year. I had tried it several times before but it just wasn't clicking for me! One day last year when I came across the Fiber Flux blog and it really excited me. She has some simple clear videos and instructions that it all finally came together for me. I've only competed a couple knit project because they do take awhile but it's fun to try new things outside my crochet box! 

I kept seeing these fun twisted head wraps and I thought a knit one would be simple enough. I went in search of a pattern on Ravelry. I found this freebie : Twistin the Night Away

I started it Saturday night and finished it Sunday afternoon. I'm a slow knitter LOL! I loved this project because it was using chunky yarn! I don't have a large knitting needle stash like my crochet hooks.  So I used my 11- 8mm DNP's and adjusted the pattern as I went which is very easy to do with this pattern. I'm going to attempt some more of these soon. My Calleigh said "mom I need one in blue next please" so I'll work on a child size, which will work up faster! 


Don't you just love this color! The yarn is Michaels Brand Loops and Threads Cozy Wool in Spearmint.

I didn't realize till I was finished that there is a video too and lots of pics. So if you try the pattern or just want to learn to knit this could be a good project for a brave beginner. 

Do you just crochet or do you have another craft you enjoy too? 

Saturday, January 18, 2014

Mini Mystery CAL from Merry Messy Life Part #1

HI! Hope your weekend is off to a fabulous start. I decided to have some fun crochet time just for me today. I'm joining in a Mini Mystery Crochet-A-Long hosted by Merry Messy Life


I was enticed by this one because it's called the Mini Mystery CAL! So that tells me it will be simple and not take to much time. I also liked that it uses basic worsted weight and H hook. Makes for a great stash buster with materials I already have. 

Part one can be found here : Part #1

I decided to use colors that match my logo from my stash of Vanna's Choice. I can't tell you the exact colors because many don't have wrappers, but I think it's Rasperry, Lime, Aqua, & Duckie!


The triangle granny was very simple to make and I really like the looks of these! 
I'm even thinking of making more but we'll save the remnants of yarn I have left for the other steps just incase.  



There is plenty of time to join in this week so come join the fun if you can! 

Friday, January 17, 2014

Which Is First Crochet or Cleaning?

This week has been a weird on for me. Trying to get back into the groove of life after the Holidays, sickness of everyone in the family x2 and Birthdays I suppose.

Sometimes balancing life and business is hard. I'm so thankful that I get to stay home and work doing what love. This actually marks 4 successful years of Calleigh's Clips and Crochet Creations. Each new year is a new adventure and I look forward to doing this for as long as can.

I'll admit crochet tends to out weight everything else and I need to set some personal goals for home and family. I think this card kinda sums up my week! It's a goal that easy to meet. Haha!

"For the new year, I resolve to spend more time knitting or crocheting
and less time doing housework!"


So now that I have my crochet goals, I have business and life goals to set! I see this as being a successful year if I put my mind to it. Organization and balance is a must! 

So is balancing it all hard for you? What comes first many times for you Crochet or Housework? 





Wednesday, January 15, 2014

What's In My Stash Wednesday?

Would you believe that I haven't gone yarn shopping in 2014 yet! Haha! I didn't do much yarn shopping in December either. I usually go every week to be inspired.  This yarn addict doesn't make silly goals like, use the yarn I have, yarn buying freeze or organize that stash first (face palm)
It just isn't happening! 

I had to get yarn for an order so seemed like a good day to explore what's new on the shelves.  Today I went to Hobby Lobby and the fact that I have an employee discount courtesy of my hubby working at corporate doesn't ever help me buy less. 

Red Heart recently released a reflective yarn. Reflective yarns aren't new but they are usually kinda pricey! I've seen yarn creations popping up in my Facebook feed but they seem to be so popular the yarns are already out of stock. Would you believe while shopping today I found a new version of I Love This Yarn- Reflective! They only had two colors Orange Glow and Yellow Glow. It's a worsted weight where I think the Red Heart Brand might be a Bulky. So I snatched up one of each! It's priced at $5.99 but I used a coupon on one of them. I'm going to brain storm a fun pattern or two with it for sure (eventually). If you click the photo below it will be bigger and you can read the yarn label for specific info. It is not on the website yet to order. 

This is with flash to show the reflective. 

This is without flash. 
I also picked up several skeins of I Love This Yarn in some soft and pale, wintery shades. I already have plans for some of these lovely skeins! Hopefully soon, if not come spring time I'm sure they'll be put to good use! Aren't they pretty! I think these shade would also be gorgeous with with my 

Hobby Lobby doesn't carry a lot of other brands of yarn like they used to, but that a okay because I love everything they have come out with. I'm just sad they don't have as much Vanna's Choice because there are specific colors I use on a regular basis I now have to order ahead of time online.
 I was so excited to see today one of my new favorites Lion Brand Heartland being stocked on the shelf! I could only get it at Joann's and it's out of the way for me to go there so I'm super excited to see it! I use this yarn in my free Key Tab Stitch Series of crochet patterns! 

So buy any yarn this week? What did you get? 


Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Need to Organize?

After I posted all those 2014 goals I have yesterday I think I forgot one goal! Now that the crazy holiday season is past it might be time to tackle my craft room! It's a bit of a disaster and took quite a hit! I have yarn everywhere, unorganized. I have random projects laying about that need to be finished or find new homes. 

(I will be posting a de-stash sale soon.....as soon as I get organized, items and maybe yarn, if I can bare to part with it. {raise a hand if your a yarn hoarder}) 

When we moved in May/June I was so excited about this space. So much room and I was going to keep it top notch! See it looks so nice here. Everything had a place! 

Now look at this disaster! Inside of some of those cubbies are yarn tornados! I really need to wind some of my partially used skeins! 


My desk is usually clean. I do all my shipping here! Labels, packaging and organizing! 
(Although someone should really take out all that paper trash by the desk...)


For Christmas I did do a little shopping with Thrity-One! I have lots totes and more fun items from them and I love it! 
I got this hanging organizer to help me better keep track of orders, receipts, patterns (which I rarely print) and many other things. I'm going to add a calendar and labels that will help me better plan. I usually just fly by the seat of the pants but I think with a little organization and planning this can be an awesome 2014. 



So how is your crafty space? Does it need help? I'm going to make a post on my Facebook page and I want you to share a picture of how you organize? If you don't have Facebook just post a pic to twitter instagram and tag  #Calleighsclips (that's my name for both) I can't wait to see your pics and tips! 

Monday, January 13, 2014

5 of My Personal Crochet Goals for 2014



I don't normally make new years resolutions. Which is kinda sad but it don't like to make goals I know I can't keep but I've realized if I don't make goals I won't grow as a person or business! The world of Crochet is large and even with my experience there is so much more to learn! Here are a few things I'd like to accomplish this year.

1. Learn a new crochet technic!

 Last year I wanted to learn Bavarian Crochet & Broom Stick Lace. I learned the basics of both but I don't have a project to show for them yet. My Bavarian Crochet Blanket is still in process. When I learned Broom Stick Lace is was just by chance. I had joined a mystery crochet along but I never finished. I just got to busy with other things. 

What I want to accomplish this year is to learn and finish a project in Tunisian crochet. 

2. Write more patterns!  

I have a million ideas in my notebook. I want to try to stay original and unique. 
Which can be hard in a growing work of crochet artists. 

3. I'd like to try to get a pattern published 
in a popular crochet magazine or with a popular yarn company. 

I've been doing some investigating and I'm excited about the possibilities. 
I was beyond thrilled when I had a pattern accepted with my freelance work for Hobby Lobby (Holy Cowl) and it's always fun to do the Crochet a Day Calendar each year but I want to take that next step as a designer. 

4. Blog more! 

If you haven't noticed I've been blogging almost daily. I'm doing a really awesome crochet blogging challenge to start 2014 off on the right foot and I've learned so much! I won't likely blog everyday after January but I want to try to do it at least 2-3 days a week! 
More tutorials, patterns and crochet tips to come!!! 

5. Donations, Charity and Prayer.

I've worked on donating some hats each year to preemies organizations and I'd really like to check into doing it more local in our area hospitals. I have a lot of little skeins of yarn that can be quickly make into darling little hats. I'd like to set a goal to make a certain amount each month. I bet I could do over 100 - 200 this year. Thats just about 2-4 a week. 

Someone recently mentioned in my facebook group of praying for little ones while they make special blankets. I'm a Christian and I do believe in the power of prayer! I think that during these special hat making times it would be a great time to pray for the special little babies and families that would receive these hats! I just think of all the mindless tv I watch while I crochet and I think this could be a better use of some of that time. Thinking of others! I'm going to write more on this soon! 

So do you have any Crochet Goals for 2014?







Sunday, January 12, 2014

Current Projects and Crochet Cables

I've been obsessed with crochet cables lately! I've been able to test some fun patterns and been inspired to maybe try some of my own cable ideas eventually but I have no idea when! So many ideas and so very little time. Here are a few great cable projects I've done in the past few weeks. 

My friend Rachel over at Silly Stitches wrote this really awesome pattern for a cabled cowl 
called the Myrna Cowl

The pattern even includes directions for a cozy, furry lining. This is super warm and fun to make! I made this with Lion Brand Tweed stripes and just looove the way the colors worked up.  




If you love this as much as I did! Then your in luck because she is having a 20% off sale in her 
Etsy Shop Items and Patterns this weekend! Just use the code: 20percentssale


You can see her other two amazing cable patterns I've made here

With all the fun inspiration of cables I'd had, I decided to try my hand at this 
"It's a Hoot Beanie" again. 
I'd made this one around Christmas 2012. It came out smaller than anticipated so it was perfect for Calleigh. I just added a fuzzy trim and big ol' pom pom for fun.  


I've been loving Lion Brand Heartland so I thought I'd try to make a cabled Owl slouch, but I ran out of yarn! I'll have to grab another skien to add a brim to make it slouch more. I also would recommend  doing the owl cable hat in light or brighter colors. I was excited for this charcoal color but you can't really tell the owls are there very well. They just don't pop. I like the way this one turned out but I still have some finishing details I'd like to add. 




Have you tried crochet cables? What did you make? 


Saturday, January 11, 2014

Platypus Birthday Party Ideas

My son's b-day was Tuesday but his party was last night! I'm not a great cook/baker but I made an attempt to bake a Perry The Platypus cake he picked out! 


Little sister was lots of help and we had fun. I think she just did it for the frosting! 

Whether I'm a good baker or not the cake was a hit and he loved it. That's what matters to me!



 I found a lot of neat party ideas online! I'll share these links below! 

Birthday Interview
This was fun and I'm saving his answers and will try to do it every year to see how he changes.

 Free Printables -Straight from Disney
There are invitations, paper crafts, cupcakes, games and more all free! It's a great resource. 

We can't leave crochet out of the post so here are some free patterns
I came across for Perry and his pals! 









Thursday, January 9, 2014

Cross Your Heart Slouchy Crochet Pattern


Introducing my newest design! Valentines is just around the corner and slouch hats have been so popular this year that I thought this design was a must! The pattern comes in three versatile sizes toddler, kids, and adult. 

My daughter already loves hers! You can make this in so many color ways. I like a bright color to make the hearts pop! 

The design features cross stitches and simply made heart shapes. It's not difficult but it is rated intermediate. There are a few videos included to help you with the stitches and of course I'm always just an email away if you get stuck! 

This new design is on sale in my Ravelry Shop for $3.50 -  Jan 9-11, 2014 
(ending midnight central, no coupon needed, discount applied at checkout)

After you make one be sure to link up your projects in Ravelry! I loooove to see your work! 

Want a chance to win a copy of the pattern! Come visit us on Facebook
Like, Comment and Share this photo here. (see post for details) 

Oh and If you like the hat be sure to check out this matching freebie!!



Thank you & Enjoy! 

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Knitter's Pride Waves Crochet Hooks Review


If you don't already know I love working with large hooks and chunky yarn! I like fast projects that work up in a pinch! Normally when you shop for crochet hooks in larger sizes, say anything above K (6.00mm) you'll find plastic hooks! I cannot stand plastic. I have a set of Glitter plastic hooks and while they look pretty I don't like working with them. I didn't find much success finding aluminum hooks in the larger sizes until I got a recommendations from a friend a few months back! 

I'd heard of Knitter's Pride Knitting Needles but didn't realize they had hooks too! I was thrilled that they had hooks up to size 12.00 all Aluminum. 

They are priced amazingly at $3.49-$4.59. Under $5.00 a hook for larger hooks! That's good in my book! You can find these in the Webs Online Store.  I purchased K, L, M, N, & 12.00mm  the shipping wasn't bad either and they came in the mail quickly.


The handles are comfy and grippy! The shaft seems short from the hook to handle but doesn't really bother me. It was just different for me at 1st. The head is tapered and shaped more like Boye hooks (my preference) If you are a Bates hook lover you may not like these. I've crochet several items with these hooks already and I did't notice anything strange with gauge being off. 
 I would highly recommend these! 

My favorite hooks by far are still Tulip Emito hooks! I have the whole set just wish they made bigger than a J Hook. I actually have the Silver Set but I really want this Rose set! So pretty! Not that I need it I just um...need it! LOL.



What's your favorite type of hook? 

You can read more awesome crochet hook comparison facts on Crochet Cabana





Tuesday, January 7, 2014

10 Free Birthday Party Themed Crochet Patterns

I thought today it would be fun to share some of my favorite 
Birthday Party Themed Crochet Patterns.


Today is my sons 6th birthday! I can hardly believe it! He started Kindergarten this year and absolutely loves it! He was so excited to get back to school yesterday after winter break. He's growing up so fast and I love him dearly! 


Now on to what you really want! Free patterns! 

1. Party Hat by Mamachee

I love this pattern and have made in many times in different variations! They are always a fun hit for the party. You can see my versions here.

2. Ballon Applique - By Me

The appliqué's are great on hats and other clothing. They even make great embellishments on cards or bunting. 

3. Birthday Candle Scarf by Twinkie Chan

Who doesn't love Twinkie Chan's Whimsical designs! They are always fun, colorful and unique. 

4. Cupcake Pin Cushion by One and Two Company 

I'm always losing my tapestry needles. I really should make a good pincushion. 
This one looks yummy but don't eat it!! 

5-7. Party Pennant Garland by Moogly. 

She also has crochet Letters and Numbers for you to make the perfect pennant! 


These would be great with a name, age, number and/or ballon appliqués. 

8. Cupcake Hat by Sara of Repeat Crafter Me


I love Sara's Patterns. I've made several. They are well written and on gauge for me! 

9. Rainbow Cake Tissue Cozy by Ashley Nichole


I just came across this adorable pattern! I will have to add this to my to do list! I love the colorful rainbow of colors and little textures added to the frosting! 


10. Party Cake Dishcloths by Jennifer of Fiber Flux 


I love crochet dishcloths! These caught my eye because of the bright colors. 
A great modern granny square! 

I hope you enjoyed this Round up! Which one(s) will you try? Have you made any of these already? 
Feel free to link up your favorite Birthday themed patterns in the comments! 






Monday, January 6, 2014

Cross Your Heart Coffee Cozy - Free Crochet Pattern

Do you love Coffee! I drink way to much so I think this year I'll start a goal of trying to write 12 coffee cozy patterns. One for each month! Here is the 1st. Lets see how far I get. 

This one is Valentines Day themed. It uses fun crossed double crochets to make x's and some fun combination of other simple stitches to make hearts. You'll be sure to fall in love with this one. It's a great stash buster too as you only need small amounts of yarn. Have fun with Valentines Day Colors like pinks and reds, or go with a pastel theme like conversation hearts! Enjoy! 

Cross Your Heart Coffee Cozy


Do not use my images for any purpose! If you sell items made from my patterns please make and photograph your own work! Thank you! ~Elisabeth


Level: Easy

Materials: 
Worsted Weight Yarn of Choice in 3 colors
I used scraps of Vanna’s Choice, you don’t need much at all! A great stash buster! 
I'm not entirely sure but I think the colors I used are pink, raspberry and silver heather.

*Hook Sizes: 
H-Hook - (5.00mm)

*Tapestry Needle
*Terms and Stitches used:


*Special Stitch: Crossed Double Crochet - (csdc) -(sk st, dc in next st, working across the front, dc in previous sk st) -This special stitch makes an “X” shaped texture.  Click here to see video tutorial of this stitch -www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHDvbWdrdgk

Notes: 
*Chain stitch does not count in stitch count!
*The number at the end of each row is the stitch count for the row (#).


Starting with Color # 1 Leave a bit of a tail, about 4-6 inches.

Round 1: ch 25, hdc in 2nd ch from the hook and each ch across, join with a sl st to 1st hdc to form a circle (Take care not to twist the ch.  You’ll use the tail to join the bottom of the hdc.)

Round 2: ch 2, *(fphdc around next st, bphdc around next st), 
Repeat from * around, join with a sl st to 1 st of round (24) 

Round 3: ch 1, sc in each st around, join with a sl st to 1st sc (24)

Switch to color #2
Round 4: ch 2, CSDC around, join with sl st to 1st dc of round (24 or 12 csdc)

Switch to color #1
Round 5: ch 1, sc in each st around, join with sl st to 1st sc (24)

Switch to color #3
Round 6: ch 3 {counts as 1st dc in this round only}, dc in same stitch as join, ch 1, sk 3 sts, *(2dc, ch1, 2dc) in next st, ch 1, sk 3 sts, Rep from * around work (2 dc , ch 1) in same stitch as join (already has the ch 3, dc from beginning), join with sl st to top of ch 3. 

Switch to color #1 
Round 7: ch 1, sc in ch 1 space before join (center of the 1st heart), *ch 2, sc in the center sc of the sk 3 from Round 6 below, ch 2, sc in ch 1 space (center of heart), rep from * around. at end of round join with a sl st 1st sc.

Round 8: ch 1, 1 sc in each sc and ch-2 space around, join with a sl st to 1st sc (24)

Switch to color #2 
Round 9: ch 2, CSDC around, join with sl st to 1st dc (24 or 12 cdsc)

Switch to color #1
Round 10: ch1, sc in each st around, join with sl st to 1st sc (24)

Round 11: ch 2, hdc in each st around, join with sl st to 1st hdc (24)

Round 12: ch 2, *(fphdc around next st, bphdc around next st),
Repeat from * around, join with a sl st to 1st st (24) 


*Fasten off and weave in ends! 

Legal stuff! Copyright 2013 Calleigh's Clips and Crochet Creations

Download the PDF File here!

You will need Adobe to read this pattern. 
Please do not copy and/or redistribute this pattern, but direct people back to the blog post.


Thank you for using a Calleigh’s Clips original pattern. I have done my best to keep my patterns simple and easy to understand. If at any time you need assistance, please feel free to contact me using the contact me tab.

Please remember that there may be a slight variance in sizing due to different tensions of each individual and materials used.

All patterns are copyright protected, but you are welcome to sell finished products made from my patterns. I do ask, however, that you mention my company name along with my web shop address as follows:

Calleigh’s Clips & Crochet Creations by Elisabeth Spivey 

I would love to see your finished products if you would like to send me pictures. These will be for my personal use only and will not be posted anywhere without prior written permission from you.

Enjoy,
Elisabeth

Sunday, January 5, 2014

Yarn Eater Throw Update

Well It's been 6 months since I started my Yarn Eater Throw. 
You can read about the start of it and grab the free pattern in my previous post : 



I got excited at the start to learn bavarian crochet but after the 1st few rounds I got distracted. I rarely do large projects. So I knew this would be a long process. The stitch is now burned into my mind and it's very easy even though you kind of have to pay attention or you will miss stitches.

Right now it's measuring about 32 x 32 inches. I have 10 skeins of yarn left and the wheel stitch rounds (2 rounds) now take about a full skien. My goal is to finish this by spring.

I'm slightly disappointed in the way the variegated colors are working. I love the yarn but I wish it had more blue and that the red/cream didn't look so pink. I originally went with the variegated because I'd hoped it would mean less yarn changes but you have to fasten off every other row anyways because of the way the stitch works. I think in the end I'll still like it but I'm to far in to start fresh. It's still a special project to me!

I think I may need to block it. I must have done something weird at the start or crocheted with looser tension because it won't lay flat. It kinda pokes up in the center. Unless I stretch it out, like I did for the picture. Anyone else have that problem? Any advise?

Saturday, January 4, 2014

Top 10 Posts from 2013

What a great 3rd year for Calleigh's Clips and Crochet Creations. It's been fun branching out even more and sharing my projects and pattern with you! This post is about the top 10 most viewed posts of 2013. Most are freebie patterns and then my fun tutorial on the lawn chair crochet over.




While these were the top 10 post of 2013 
My top two post of all time are....

 1. Addison Headband  -The headband got a make over and re-edit.



I just recently added toddler size to the slouch post so you can now make it in 3 sizes toddler, kids, adult! This was also the most favorite pattern on All free crochet for Dec 2013 and a top 100 for the 2nd year in a row! So exciting!! 

Did you make any of these patterns? Which one is your favorite! 

Friday, January 3, 2014

Hand Chain Scarf Crochet Pattern Review


Hand chain Scarf in Sashay Golden
During the business of the Holiday's I hurt my hand and couldn't crochet for a about a week. I'm not really even sure what I did. I play piano too and I think I actually hurt it practicing not crocheting. Hand and finger exercises are soooo important to your hand health. You can read more about that in a previous post I wrote: Breathing in and out while you crochet.

Anyhoo. Not being able to crochet for a few days well wasn't going to happen. I tried to rest but still needed to whip out a few gifts some how. So, I cheated and found a pattern on how to crochet with your fingers as the tools instead of a hook. I thought maybe if I was relaxed and not gripping a hook that might help the pain.

I had two skeins of Sashay yarn I'd bought at Michaels that I thought should be used. The pattern I found was a freebie on Red Hearts Website called Glam-It Up Hand Chain Scarf.

This is a wonderful beginning project. Even if you've never crocheted this would be a great place to start. Or if you teach it may be a great project for you to get your students started with the basics of chaining and tension with out having to worry about a hook.

 Working with the mesh yarn can be a bit frustrating otherwise. I'd made several ruffles scarfs the previous year and I prefer to knit those rather than crochet and I don't knit well!

These scarves worked up in about 20 minutes, so I made two and really could have made more! The colors were gorgeous and I loooove the way they turned out! I used Red Heart Sashay Metallic in Rubies and Golden. They are so sparkly and pretty in person. I also love the fact that the scarf is super light! It's not heavy at all! I will for sure made more of these in the future.

I used two fingers and kept my tension pretty loose. I left a decent amount at the end and after I tied the ends together I made a little bow detail (see golden image) That way I could make it adjustable. The golden one has different lengths wrapped. The red one they are all about the same length. I like options! So will you try a finger/hand chain scarf?

Hand chain Scarf in Sashay Rubies