Beginner Crochet Tips Part 5: Use Stitch Markers

Granny Stitch Capelet

 There are several options for using stitch markers in crochet, and you can choose the one that works best for you. Here are some ideas:

1. Safety pins: Small safety pins are a great option for stitch markers. They're easy to attach and remove, and you can use them to mark individual stitches or sections of your work.

2. Locking stitch markers: These are specially designed stitch markers that lock in place, so they won't slip out of your work. They come in a variety of sizes and colors, and they're great for marking rounds or sections of your work.

3. Paper clips: If you don't have any stitch markers on hand, paper clips can work in a pinch. They're not as secure as other options, but they'll help you keep track of your stitches.

4. Yarn scraps: You can use small pieces of yarn as stitch markers. Simply tie a piece of yarn around your hook or into the stitch you want to mark.

5. Bobby pins: Bobby pins are another option for stitch markers and they are MY FAVORITE. They're easy to slide into your work, and they come in a variety of sizes.

6. Beads: You can use small beads as stitch markers. Thread the bead onto a piece of yarn and tie the yarn into a loop. Then, slide the loop onto your hook or into the stitch you want to mark.

7. Clothespins: Miniature clothespins work great as stitch markers, and they're easy to find at craft stores. You can clip them onto your work to mark individual stitches or sections.

Remember, the most important thing is to choose a stitch marker that works for you and your project. Happy crocheting!

You can find me on Instagram @jocelynsass

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Beginner Crochet Tips Part 3: Practice Your Tension

 

Cookie Tape Measure Cover

Crocheting is a wonderful way to create beautiful and functional items such as blankets, clothing, and cute accessories. One of the most important aspect of crocheting is maintaining proper tension or gauge, which is the number of stitches per inch or centimeter. Without proper tension, your finished project may be too loose or too tight, resulting in an uneven or misshapen item.

Fortunately, there are several ways to practice and improve your tension in crochet. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best ways to do so.

1. Use a Gauge/Tension Swatch

A gauge/tension swatch is a small sample of crocheted fabric that is worked up using the same yarn and hook size as your intended project. By creating a swatch, you can test your gauge and make any necessary adjustments before starting your project.

To create a gauge/tension swatch, chain a few stitches (depending on the stitch pattern you will be using) and work several rows of the pattern until the swatch measures at least 4 inches or 10 centimeters square. Measure the number of stitches and rows in the center of the swatch using a ruler or tape measure.

Compare the measurements to the gauge recommended in the pattern. If your measurements do not match the recommended gauge, adjust your hook size or tension and try again until you achieve the correct gauge.

2. Practice with Different Yarns and Hooks

Different yarns and hooks can affect your tension, so it’s important to practice with a variety of materials. Try crocheting with different weights of yarn and different hook sizes to get a feel for how each affects your tension.

For example, if you usually crochet with worsted weight yarn and a 5.0 mm hook, try crocheting with a sport weight yarn and a 4.0 mm hook, then compare the tension of the resulting fabric.

3. Take Breaks and Stretch

Crocheting for long periods of time can cause tension in your hands, wrists, and arms. This tension can affect your crochet tension, so it’s important to take breaks and stretch your muscles regularly.

Try taking a break every 30 minutes or so to stretch your hands and arms. You can also try some hand exercises to help relieve tension and improve your grip.

4. Practice Consistently

As with any skill, consistent practice is key to improving your tension in crochet. Try to make time for crocheting every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. This will help you develop muscle memory and improve your overall tension.

By practicing these techniques regularly, you can improve your crochet tension and create beautiful, even projects every time. Remember to be patient with yourself and enjoy the process – crocheting is a wonderful hobby that can bring joy and relaxation to your life!

You can find me on Instagram @jocelynsass

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Spool of Thread Decorative Potholder

Spool of Thread Potholder

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Love for Crochet Decorative Potholders

Crochet decorative potholders are a fun and easy way to add color and texture to your kitchen. Discover some easy and fun crochet patterns and tips for adding texture and dimension to your work. Mix and match crochet potholders for a coordinated look.

As a published crochet designer, I've always had a passion for creating beautiful and functional crochet kitchen items. One of my all-time favorite projects is the crochet decorative potholder. Not only are they fun to make, but they also add a touch of color and texture to any kitchen.

Easy and Fun Crochet Patterns for Potholders

If you're new to crochet, potholders are an excellent starting point. They are quick and easy to make and require only a small amount of yarn. You can find many free crochet patterns online, or you can create your own. One of my favorite designs is the Patchwork Quilt look-alike potholder. This classic design never goes out of style, and you can play around with colors to create unique combinations.

They are fun to give as gifts to family and friends, but always remember they are DECORATIVE to display, but generally are NOT usable for hot items, like regular potholders!

Find the Spool of Thread Potholder at the link below:

https://www.freepatterns.com/crochet/for-the-home/kitchen-decor/spool-of-thread-potholder

You can find me on Instagram at @JocelynSass

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Would You Like To Crochet A Purse?

Crocheting is a hobby that can be both therapeutic and creative. It is a skill that has been passed down for generations, and one that has stood the test of time. If you are looking for a fun and easy project that you can complete in just a few hours, consider crocheting a purse. Not only is it a practical accessory, but it is also a special item that you can be proud of creating.

Adorable Beach Ball Purse

Crocheting a purse is a relatively easy project, even for beginners. With just a few basic stitches, such as the chain stitch, single crochet, and double crochet, you can create a beautiful and functional purse. There are countless patterns available online, ranging from simple designs to more intricate patterns with intricate detailing. You can choose a pattern that suits your skill level, and if you get stuck, there are plenty of tutorials and YouTube videos available to help you.

Crocheting a purse is a fun and engaging project. It allows you to tap into your creativity and experiment with different color combinations and textures. You can choose from a wide range of yarns, from natural fibers like wool and cotton to synthetic blends that are easy to care for. You can also incorporate different embellishments, such as buttons, beads, and tassels, to add a unique touch to your purse.

The Beach Ball Bag above is a great beginning project that is super fun to crochet! It is also on SALE for a limited time!

You can find me on Instagram at @JocelynSass

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Apple Hat Crochet Pattern from Too Cute Crochet

Quick and easy crochet pattern! Whether you are new to #crochet or a seasoned veteran, you will LOVE how quickly this #crochetpattern works up!

Welcome Fall with this cute, cute apple hat!

This adorable hat is oh-so-easy to crochet, so it is perfect for the beginning crocheter.

A photo TUTORIAL is included for working the REVERSE single crochet AND working on OPPOSITE SIDE OF STARTING CHAIN!


FINISHED SIZES listed in CROCHET PATTERN:
Newborn measures 14” (35.5 cm)
3-6 months measures 15-3/4" (40cm)
6-12 months measures 17-1/4” (43.8 cm)
2-3 years measures 19” (48.25 cm)
4-10 years measures 20-1/2” (52 cm)

You must be familiar with basic crochet stitches and techniques.

My instructions are very well written and very easy to follow!

FPF Calypso Shawl for Spring

 Happy 'almost'  SPRING!

Our Free Pattern Friday (FPF) offering today is perfect for outfits that need 

just a little something to compliment them! 

How pretty is this Shawlette?

One of my favorite crochet designers is Carolyn Christmas and she has been for many years! I am most fortunate also, to be able to call Carolyn a friend! We have that kind of friendship that not only has survived over the years, but will always be there, no matter how often we actually see each other in person. Being crochet design colleagues has just made the relationship even stronger!

Carolyn has a wonderful blog at Pink Mambo. I love all her free patterns and knowledgeable posts. She also has many, many beautiful wearables and adorable home decor patterns at

Gourmet Crochet! 

Photos courtesy of Carolyn Christmas at Pink Mambo.
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FPF Dress Me Bunny for Spring

Spring and Easter is just around the corner! 

So our Free Pattern Friday (FPF) offering today is great for that little one of yours!
They will love to cuddle and dress this cute-as-can-be Bunny!

 

Click HERE to see the Spring Dress Me Bunny and extra outfits!

The dress and outfits are at the link above and the actual bunny pattern is HERE.

Photos courtesy of Amigurumi To Go.
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FPF Never Ending Wildflower

Rebecca of Little Monkeys Crochet has a really pretty 'giant' flower tutorial and pattern in crochet. I love the beauty of the petals in this flower that she calls the Never Ending Flower.

She explains in the post why this is a never ending flower and how the construction of the flower makes it different and less bulky than other large crochet flowers. And she gives us a few crochet projects that can use this beautiful flower!

I would love to hear how YOU might use this flower!



Photo courtesy of Rebecca of Little Monkeys Crochet.
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FPF Heart Throb Blanket

For this FPF (Free Pattern Friday) you are in for a big treat! 

I had another pattern that I was going to post here today, but when I saw this 

gorgeous blanket, I had to change my mind!

Well-known designer and podcaster, Marly Bird has created a beautiful blanket, that is featured on the Red Heart free pattern website. 

When you click the photo above or HERE, you will be taken to Marly's blog, where not only can you find a link to the pattern, but also the backstory of this pretty blanket.

C2C fans will be thrilled to know that this design is crocheted using Diagonal Box Stitch!

The photo alone makes me want to crochet one for my Sophia!

What do you think of this unusual pattern? Does it make you want to try a C2C blanket where you change colors and follow a chart?




Photo courtesy of Marly of the Yarn Thing Podcast.
Free pattern LW5143 at redheart.com
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TT Tutorial Tuesday Love Wiggles Trivet

This Love Wiggles Trivet for TT is the cutest table trivet I have seen in a long time! 

Moogly is offering this as a free PATTERN, but Tamara's writes her patterns so well and gives so much information, it is almost like a tutorial.

The PATTERN is taken from her original Wiggle It Trivet and she has upgraded it for Valentine's Day!

There is also a link to the original pattern on her site as well as several helpful video tutorials.

I LOVE the pink cotton, but what color would you make it in?



Photo courtesy of Tamara of Moogly.
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NEW Free Pattern at Cute Crochet Chat

Timeless Teddy

Design by Jocelyn Sass/Cute Crochet

Copyright 2014 Jocelyn Sass/Cute Crochet All Rights Reserved

Unauthorized duplication is a violation of applicable copyright laws. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of these instructions.  

Materials: #5 Bulky suede-like yarn,  #4 worsted weight yarn, 2 yards Black for Eyes and Nose;
J (6mm) hook; 

1-1/2" Coordinating Wire Ribbon, 24";
1" Green Flower Buttons, 4;

3-3/4" Gold Wire Eyeglasses by Fibre Craft; sewing & tapestry needles;
5-inch soft-sculpture doll needle;
polyester fiberfill; Button and carpet thread; sewing thread;  

Size: Bear measures 13" Tall Sitting; 18" Standing

Gauge: H (5mm) hook:   3 sc = 1 inch

NOTE: Do not join rnds unless indicated.  Mark first stitch of each rnd.

HEAD AND BODY

Rnd 1:  Starting at top of head with Canyon, ch 2; 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook (6).

Rnd 2:  2 sc in ea sc around. (12).

Rnd 3:  (Sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc) around. (18).

Rnd 4:  (Sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc) around. (24).

Rnd 5:  (Sc in next 3 sc, 2 sc in next sc) around. (30).

Rnd 6:  (Sc in next 4 sc, 2 sc in next sc) around. (36).

Rnd 7:  (Sc in next 5 sc, 2 sc in next sc) around. (42).
 

Rnds 8-15:  Sc in ea sc around. (42).

Rnd 16:  (Sc in next 5 sc, dec over next 2 sc) around. (36).

Rnd 17:  (Sc in next 4 sc, dec over next 2 sc) around. (30).

Rnd 18:  (Sc in next 3 sc, dec over next 2 sc) around. (24).

Rnd 19:  (Sc in next 2 sc, dec over next 2 sc) around. (18).

Rnd 20:  Starting body, 2 sc in ea sc around. (36).

Rnd 21:  (Sc in next 5 sc, 2 sc in next sc) around. (42).

Rnds 22: (Sc in next 6 sc, 2 sc in next sc) around. (48).

Rnds 23-34:  Sc in ea sc around. (48).

Rnd 35:  (Sc in next 6 sc, dec over next 2 sc) around. (42).

Rnd 36:  (Sc in next 5 sc, dec over next 2 sc) around. (36).

Rnd 37:  (Sc in next 4 sc, dec over next 2 sc) around. (30).

Rnd 38:  Sc in ea sc around. (30). Begin stuffing head and body firmly.  
     

Rnd 39:  (Sc in next 3 sc, dec over next 2 sc) around. (24).

Rnd 40: (Sc in next 2 sc, dec over next 2 sc) around. (18).

Rnd 41: (Sc in next sc, dec over next 2 sc) around. (12).

Finish stuffing body.

Rnd 42: (Dec over next 2 sc) around. (6).  Join with a sl st to first sc.

Fasten off, leaving length for sewing.  Sew opening closed.

EARS (Make 2)

Rnd 1:  With Canyon, ch 2; 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook. (6).

Rnd 2:  2 sc in ea sc around. (12).

Rnd 3:  (Sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc) around. (18).

Rnd 4:  (Sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc) around. (24).

Rnds 5-7:  Sc in ea sc around. (24).

Rnd 8:  (Sc in next 2 sc, dec over next 2 sc) around. (18).

Rnd 9:  (Sc in next sc, dec over next 2 sc) around. (12).

Rnd 10: (Dec over next 2 sc) around. (6). 

At end of Rnd 10, join with a sl st to first sc.

Fasten off, leaving length for sewing.  Flatten ears, and sew to each side of head.

MUZZLE

Rnds 1-4:  With Canyon, repeat Rnds 1-4 of EARS. (24).

 At end of Rnd  4, join with a sl st to first sc. Sew Muzzle to front of head over Rnds 10-15,

stuffing lightly with fiberfill before closing.

ARMS (Make 2)

Rnd 1: With Canyon, ch 2; 6 sc in 2^nd ch from hook. (6).

Rnd 2: 2 sc in ea sc around. (12).

Rnd 3: (Sc in next  sc, 2 sc in next sc) around. (18).

Rnds 4 & 5: Sc in ea sc around. (18).

Rnd 6:  2 sc in first 3 sc, sc in last 15 sc. (21).

Rnd 7:  Sc in ea sc around. (21).

Rnd 8:  (Dec over next 2 sc) 3 times, sc in last 15 sc. (18).

 Rnd 9:  (Dec over next 2 sc) twice, sc in last 14 sc. (16).

Rnds 10-21:  Sc in ea sc around. (16).

At end of Rnd 21, join with a sl st to first sc.

Fasten off, leaving length for sewing.
Stuff arm firmly, fold in half at top and sewing opening closed. Sew arms to sides of body.

LEGS (Make 2)

Rnd 1:  Starting at top of leg with Canyon, ch 2; 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook (6).

Rnd 2:  2 sc in ea sc around. (12).

Rnd 3:  (Sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc) around. (18).

Rnd 4:  (Sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc) around. (24).

Rnd 5:  (Sc in next 3 sc, 2 sc in next sc) around. (30).

Rnds 6-11:  Sc in ea sc around. (30).

Rnd 12:  (Sc in next 3 sc, dec over next 2 sc) around. (24).

Rnds 13-16:  Sc in ea sc around. (24).

Rnd 17:  (Sc in next 6 sc, dec over next 2 sc) around. (21).

Rnds 18-22:  Sc in ea sc around. (21).

Rnd 23:  Sc in ea of next 7 sc, 2 sc in ea of next 7 sc, sc in ea of next 7 sc. (28).

Rnd 24:  Sc in ea of next 12 sc, 2 sc in ea of next 4 sc, sc in ea of next 12 sc. (32).

Rnds 25-29:  Sc in ea sc around. (32).

Rnd 30:  (Sc in next 2 sc, dec over next 2 sc) around. (24). Stuff leg firmly with fiberfill.

Rnd 31:  (Dec over next 2 sc) around. (12). Finish stuffing leg and foot.

Rnd 32:  (Dec over next 2 sc) around. (6). Fasten off, leaving length for sewing. Finish stuffing foot and sew opening closed.

Making JOINTED LEGS

Thread a long length of button and carpet thread onto a soft sculpture needle. Sew one Green Flower Button to top outside edge of each leg. Sew legs to sides of body, pushing needle through buttonholes of button, through legs and body, and back again several times, pulling tightly to secure.

Making NON-JOINTED LEGS

Position legs to body sides in a sitting position. Using tapestry needle and Suede Print yarn, sew legs in place.

FINISHING

NOSE: Using Black and Satin Stitch, embroider nose over Rnd 1 of Muzzle.

EYES: Place Eyeglasses on Teddy directly above Muzzle over Rnds 8 and 9 of Head. Mark placement for Eyes. Remove eyeglasses. Using Black and Satin Stitch, embroider eyes over Rnds 8 and 9.

Sew remaining two buttons centered to body front as shown in photo..

Tie 24" piece of coordinating ribbon into a bow. Trim ends  Sew bow to center neck under chin.

Place eyeglasses on Teddy.


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NEW Bonnet and Blanket Crochet Pattern Set at Too Cute Crochet

I am so excited to introduce one of my newest CROCHET PATTERNS from Too Cute Crochet!

The Build A Shell Bonnet and Blanket now comes in TWO SIZES with a Matching BONNET that comes in FOUR SIZES!

This SET is beautiful to give as a gift for the Newborn, Child OR used for baby photo props!

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
BLANKET: Newborn Size: 24-1/2” Wide (62 cm) x 26” (66 cm)Tall

Crib Size: 36” Wide (92 cm) x 40” (102 cm) Tall

BONNET: Newborn, 3-6 months, 6-18 months, 2T-4T

Visit Too Cute Crochet to see all our crochet patterns!

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Rudy Reindeer Crochet Pattern on SALE!

I just added Rudy Reindeer to my Ravelry shop!

Rudy Reindeer is a LARGE reindeer that can decorate your door or wall for Christmas.

It measures a generous 9 inches wide and 29 inches long!

It is easy to crochet and fun to put together!

The crochet pattern for RUDY will be $1.00 for ONE DAY only!

Yes, that is $1.00!

Get the pattern before the link expires!

Sale will end at 11:59 PM on 11/24/14.

Crochet BRIM Earflap Hat with Pompoms

I am so excited to introduce one of my newest crochet patterns from Too Cute Crochet!

The Brim Earflap Hat is available in 5 sizes:

FINISHED SIZES listed in CROCHET PATTERN:
Newborn measures 14” (35.5 cm)
3-6 months measures 15-3/4" (40cm)
6-12 months measures 17-1/4” (43.8 cm)
2-3 years measures 19” (48.25 cm)
4-10 years measures 20-1/2” (52 cm)

There are so many different Earflap hat patterns available, so  what makes this one any different? First of all, my patterns are professionally formatted and written in easily understandable crochet terms, with email pattern support. It also has also been designed with a 'brim' on the front of the hat, which makes the earflap hat a bit different.

Visit Too Cute Crochet to see all our crochet patterns!

 

 

 

 

New Bonnet and Doily Crochet Pattern

I am so excited to introduce one of my newest crochet patterns from Too Cute Crochet! Like many of my crochet designs, my daughter, Gina, who is a Newborn and family photographer, asked me for some new Baby Bonnets to use in her business. I am so happy with the results! I have SEVERAL new designs coming out soon, but this is my first combination set of a Bonnet and a Doily photo prop. I am thrilled that so many new moms and photographers are requesting the more TRADITIONAL styles for babies, then when I first had my children. Everything old is new again, right?

The Bonnet is available in 4 sizes, Newborn, 3-6 months, 6-18 months and 2T-4T. This bonnet works up very quickly and is so much fun to crochet. Of course, it also comes with the Doily pattern below, which make a wonderful Photography Prop!
You can see more of Gina's work on Facebook here:

https://www.facebook.com/ginaricciphotography

Please feel free to LIKE her page!

Look below to read about a chance to win a copy of this new Bonnet and Doily pattern!

If you would like to win a copy of this new pattern, please leave a comment below! One winner will be chosen at random in a few days! Thank you for your support of this blog and my crochet design business!



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Crochet Pattern Snowman Baby Bib

Snowman Baby Bib was commissioned and designed by me for HGTV. Therefore, the pattern can be found on their website!

http://www.hgtv.com/holidays-occasions/crocheted-snowman-baby-bib/index.html

Three Crochet Patterns Bundle Now Available at Too Cute Crochet

I sell many crochet patterns for babies and photography props at various Etsy shops, Ravelry and on Craftsy.

Some of my most popular patterns are my Build A Blanket Series that are specifically designed for the Beginner crocheter in mind and for those who are looking for a fun and really quick baby gift or photo prop.
Beginners love the fact that my patterns are professionally formatted and that they are REALLY EASY to follow!

Starting today, I am offering a BUNDLE of 3 of my most popular baby blanket patterns for one low price!

The BUNDLE at THIS price will only be available for a limited time!




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What a Difference a Year Makes!

Many of you know that my daughter, Gina, is a family photographer. She is the one who photographs all the crochet designs for my online shops. Recently, she was able to do an updated photograph of the SAME child in my Apple Hat, one year later at her First Birthday session! How cute is she?

The Apple Hat comes in five sizes, Newborn to 10+ years.The apple hat on the left is newborn size and the hat on the right is size 6-12 months.

BRAND NEW LOOK!

Cute Crochet Chat has a new look!

Whew! It has been quite a whirlwind this past week deciding just how to change my blog look! For anyone that has visited lately, you might have seen some turmoil and some 'dust' here. But it is all fixed now! I wanted a new look for Spring and a more modern and streamlined look. I love it!
We will be offering a lot more content starting in May, but I have a couple of GREAT book and product reviews coming up in April. And YES, there will be GIVEAWAYS in April as well.
So stay tuned!
I would love to know if you like our new look! Please let me know what you think in the comments below. Thank you!

The Laura Cowl Crochet Pattern

Introducing our new cowl pattern, The Laura! The Laura Cowl is an easy, fun-to-do pattern that works up quickly, but is luxe also!

The Laura is named for a new and very dear person, who is not only a friend, but my mentor and coach as well!

This trendy cowl is a must accessory for Winter. Crocheted from a soft blend of 50% Wool and 50% acrylic, this beautiful cowl will keep you warm, yet stylish on a cold day.  Wear it with a coat outdoors or indoors over a sweater. This cowl is smaller than our other cowls and does not need to be wrapped. Just slip it over your head! A large hook and super bulky yarn makes this a fast project!

The Laura is available in my ETSY SHOP, or RAVELRY in my Ravelry Shop.