Thursday, December 18, 2014

new crochet pattern - weekend cowl by kim miller.


http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/weekend-cowl-2
Weekend Cowl by Kim Miller
Skill Level: Easy

This gorgeous v-shaped cowl will layer well with a sweater or your favorite peacoat. Plus, this crochet pattern only uses 1½ balls of Lion Brand® Wool Ease Thick and Quick, so it works up fast, making it a great weekend project!

This crochet pattern calls for a 9.00 mm (M) crochet hook, 1½ balls of Lion Brand® Wool Ease Thick and Quick [6 ounces (170 g)/108 yards (98 meters) per ball], which is a super bulky (6). The cowl is worked flat in one piece and the pattern calls for the following stitches: single crochet, half double crochet, and single crochet 2 together.

Finished Size: When laying flat the finished cowl measures 81.3 cm (32”) long, 20.3 cm (8”) wide at its narrowest point, and 26.7 cm (10½”) wide at its widest point.
 
The stunning buttons pictured on the cowl are from a local B.C. artist that creates handmade buttons from polymer clay. If you would like to see more of their creations then we invite you to visit Dave and Carolyn Good of 2GoodClaymates.



Purchase this pattern using the above link and receive 20% off by entering the coupon code "WEEKENDCOWL20" at the checkout!
Offer valid until Wednesday - December 31st, 2014

kim.

Thursday, December 11, 2014

sneak peek.


I'm calling this the "Weekend Cowl", because it's a simple crochet project that can
easily be completed in a weekend!


I'm working hard to get this pattern listed as soon as possible...
 
 
 
 
kim.

Thursday, December 4, 2014

new crochet pattern - blue mist cowl by tara schreyer.

http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/blue-mist-cowl 

http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/blue-mist-cowl

Skill Level: Beginner

This slip stitched cowl is light and airy but will provide plenty of warmth during the cool months. With the chunky yarn and the large hook, it makes a perfect project for a beginner or a quick project for an advanced crocheter. Although the stitches create a different pattern on each side, both are equally beautiful making it completely reversible and adding interest when twisted around the neck.

This pattern calls for 2 skeins of Cascade Yarns Baby Alpaca Chunky which gives it amazing drape and coziness but any chunky yarn can be used as a substitute.

Finished Size (if blocked):  11" wide x 54" long


Purchase this pattern using the above link and receive 20% off by entering the coupon code "BLUEMIST20" at the checkout!
Offer valid until Thursday - December 18th, 2014


tara.

Purchase this pattern using the above link and receive 20% off by entering the coupon code "HEADBAND20" at the checkout!
Offer valid until Sunday - December 14th, 2014
- See more at: http://knotsewcute.blogspot.ca/#sthash.AohJgSOO.dpuf



Purchase this pattern using the above link and receive 20% off by entering the coupon code "HEADBAND20" at the checkout!
Offer valid until Sunday - December 14th, 2014
- See more at: http://knotsewcute.blogspot.ca/#sthash.AohJgSOO.dpuf




Monday, December 1, 2014

new crochet pattern - cabled headband by kim miller.

 
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cabled-headband-24
Cabled Crochet Headband by Kim Miller
 
Skill Level: Intermediate

Practical and fashionable...this knit-look headband crochets up fast, and will look equally amazing with loose curls or a ponytail!!

This crochet pattern calls for a 4.00 mm (G) crochet hook, and ¾ of a skein of Berroco Vintage [100 g (3.5 oz)/200 meters (217 yds) per skein], which is a worsted weight (4). The headband is worked flat in one piece and then seamed together at the back. The pattern calls for the following stitches: dc, fpdc, bpdc, and fptr.

The finished headband measures approximately 10 cm (4” ) wide and 45.7 cm (18”) in circumference and stretches to fit 53 to 56 cm (21 to 22”) in circumference.
 
 
 
 
Purchase this pattern using the above link and receive 20% off by entering the coupon code "HEADBAND20" at the checkout!
Offer valid until Sunday - December 14th, 2014
 
 
kim.

Thursday, November 27, 2014

black friday sale.


Come visit knotsewcute.etsy.com and receive 30% off all crochet patterns!

https://www.etsy.com/shop/knotsewcute?ref=hdr_shop_menu

To receive 30% off of your next crochet pattern purchase, simply visit knotsewcute.etsy.com and enter the coupon code sale30 at the checkout. Offer expires Sunday, November 30, 2014.

Our regular offer of "buy 5 patterns in one transaction and receive 1 free" still applies.  
Convo us or leave us a note upon purchase as to your free pattern choice, and we will automatically send you your free pattern.


kim and tara.


sneak peek.

I live in the prairies where the winter months can be pretty harsh.  Therefore, I have an unending supply of cowls.  Here is one of my latest creations that will be made available to you in the very near future. 


As it is made with a chunky yarn and a very simple stitch,  it will become a favorite go-to pattern to get you through those chilly months ahead.

tara.


Monday, November 24, 2014

sneak peek.

 
The crochet pattern for this knit-look, cabled headband will be coming your way soon!
 
 
 
 
kim.

Thursday, November 20, 2014

new pattern - jute wine bottle sleeve by tara schreyer.

 
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jute-wine-bottle-sleeve
Jute Wine Bottle Sleeve by Tara Schreyer

Jute Wine Bottle Sleeve by Tara Schreyer

Jute Wine Bottle Sleeve by Tara Schreyer


SKILL LEVEL: Easy

What's one thing that everyone loves to give (and receive) as a hostess gift? Wine, of course! Make your gift special by hand-making a beautifully natural and elegant sleeve that can be embellished as desired for the occasion. Simple is beautiful!!

The finished sleeve measures 11" (28 cm) in circumference and 7.5" (19 cm) in height and will fit most regularly shaped wine bottles.

The pattern calls for approximately 164 feet of 2.00 mm jute twine. Jute twine can be purchased at your local dollar store (as I did) but you can also find it in the jewelry making section of your craft store. I've even seen it in some pretty amazing colors so you can have a lot of fun with this project!

Please note: There are no instructions or suggestions provided in the written pattern for possible embellishments. The pictures shown are supplied to serve as inspiration but the possibilities are endless!!!




 
(Purchase this pattern using the above link and enter coupon code "JUTESLEEVE20" at checkout and automatically receive 20% off your pattern purchase. Offer valid until December 4, 2014)


tara.






Thursday, November 13, 2014

sneak peek.

Working on a quick and easy pattern that makes a beautiful hostess gift!
It should be ready any day now.



tara.

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

new crochet pattern - lacy cuffs by kim miller.

Lacy Cuffs by Kim Miller
 
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lacy-cuffs-3
Lacy Cuffs by Kim Miller
 
 
Skill Level: Intermediate

Add a warm layer, and a touch of feminine detail to any outfit with these beautiful lacy cuffs.

This detailed crochet pattern is complete with colour illustrations, and a detailed chart of the lacy section of the cuff. Instructions are written for one size. The finished cuff measures 7 cm (2¾”) wide, 13.3 cm (5¼”) long, and will fit a ladies 14 cm (5½) to 15.9 cm (6¼”) wrist.

The pattern calls for ¼ skein of Malabrigo® Sock (Light Fingering) [100 g (3.5 ounces)/402 meters (440 yards ) per skein] and a 2.75 mm (C) crochet hook.

 
 
 
Purchase this pattern using the above link and receive 20% off by entering the coupon code "LACYCUFFS20" at the checkout!
Offer valid until Wednesday - November 19th, 2014
 
 
 
kim.


 

Monday, October 27, 2014

sneak peek.

This crochet pattern for these lacy cuffs should be ready for publication soon....
 

 
 
 
kim.

Friday, October 17, 2014

new crochet pattern - thermos cozy by kim miller.

 
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/thermos-cozy-2
 
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/thermos-cozy-2

http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/thermos-cozy-2
 

Skill Level: Intermediate

Pretty and practical - this cabled thermos cozy will help your beverages stay hot longer, and features an optional carry handle that easily buttons on and off.

This crochet pattern calls for 1 skein of Knit Picks® Gloss Fingering Yarn
[1.76 ounces (50 g)/220 yards (201 meters) per skein], 4 – 18 mm buttons, and a 3.25 mm (D) crochet hook. The pattern uses the following stitches and techniques: single crochet, front post double crochet, back post double crochet, and front post treble crochet.

The finished cozy measures 19 cm (7½”) in circumference and 20.3 cm (8”) in length, and fits a thermos that measures in 21 cm (8¼”) circumference and 19.5 cm (7.7”) in length - from the bottom of the lid to the bottom of the thermos. Please note that size is approximate and will be affected by the gauge and the brand of wool.



 
 
Purchase this pattern using the above link and receive 20% off by entering the coupon code "THERMOSCOZY20" at the checkout!
Offer valid until Friday - October 31st, 2014
 


kim.
 

Monday, October 13, 2014

sneak peek.

My husband bought me a new thermos, soooo of course I had to crochet a thermos cozy. I seriously can't even stop myself! Originally I had no plans of writing up a pattern, but once the cozy was completed, and I liked how it turned out, I wanted to share. Plus, I figured that if I wanted a cozy for my thermos then someone else might want one too.

 
The crochet pattern for this cozy should be ready sometime this week.
 
 
kim.

Thursday, October 2, 2014

new crochet pattern - cabled crochet poncho by kim miller.

 
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cabled-crochet-poncho
Cabled Crochet Poncho by Kim Miller
 
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cabled-crochet-poncho
Cabled Crochet Poncho by Kim Miller
 
 
Skill Level: Intermediate

Cozy up in style with this knit look cabled poncho.

This crochet pattern includes instructions for 3 different sizes:
• Size Ladies Small = 17" wide and 13" long to fit 32-34" bust.
• Size Ladies Medium = 19½" wide and 14" long to fit 36-38" bust.
• Size Ladies Large = 22" wide and 15" long to fit 40-42" bust.
Please note that the sizes are approximate and will be affected by the gauge and the brand of yarn.

This well written crochet pattern calls for a 5.50 mm (I) crochet hook and 3 (3¾, 4½) skeins of Berroco Vintage [100 g (3.5 oz)/200 meters (217 yds) per skein], which is a worsted weight (4).The pattern calls for the following stitches: dc, fpdc, bpdc, and fptr.
 
 
 
 
Purchase this pattern using the above link and receive 20% off by entering the coupon code "PONCHO20" at the checkout!
Offer valid until Thursday - October 16th, 2014
 
 
kim.

Friday, September 26, 2014

sneak peek.

Some cozy comfort for fall....


 
I'm pretty excited about my new crochet pattern and should have it ready soon!!!
 
 
 
kim.

Monday, September 22, 2014

new crochet pattern - post stitch dishcloth sampler by tara schreyer.



SKILL LEVEL: Easy

This pattern is for a set of 3 different dishcloths that allow you to practice your post stitches.  While each cloth uses similar stitches each has a unique look as illustrated in the pictures. Careful consideration was given to the stitches as well so that the dishcloths are completely reversible, providing texture on both sides.

The pattern calls for one 123 yard ball of Knit Picks Cotlin DK (70% Tanguis Cotton, 30% Linen) per dishcloth, but any DK weight (3) cotton can be substituted.  Each cloth measures 9" x 9" using the suggested weight of yarn but any size can be made as the pattern provides the multiple needed to change the size.

The 3 patterns use a variety of simple stitches but concentrate on post stitches.  If you are not familiar with front /back post double crochets or front/back post treble crochets here is your opportunity to practice!!  Here is a helpful tutorial on post stitches to get you started - http://knotsewcute.blogspot.ca/2011/06/how-to-work-post-stitch-in-crochet.html  




Purchase this pattern using the above link and receive 20% off by entering coupon code "DISHCLOTHS20" at the checkout! 
Offer valid until Monday, October 6, 2014.


Purchase this pattern using the above link and receive 20% off by entering the coupon code "PILLOW20" at the checkout!
Offer valid until Friday - September 26, 2014
- See more at: http://www.knotsewcute.blogspot.ca/#uds-search-results
 tara.

Purchase this pattern using the above link and receive 20% off by entering the coupon code "PILLOW20" at the checkout!
Offer valid until Friday - September 26, 2014
- See more at: http://www.knotsewcute.blogspot.ca/#uds-search-results
Purchase this pattern using the above link and receive 20% off by entering the coupon code "PILLOW20" at the checkout!
Offer valid until Friday - September 26, 2014
- See more at: http://www.knotsewcute.blogspot.ca/#uds-search-results

Wednesday, September 17, 2014

finished project - Spring Bunny

I fell in love with this pattern design, Spring Bunny, from Josephine Wu and I just had to make it. She was so much fun to work on.  She got cuter and cuter with every step and piecing her together became quite addicting.

This little bunny has made her way to the Dominican Republic, into the hands of my sweet little niece.  Aren't the two of them precious together? I think she likes her :)




Here is Spring Bunny enjoying the warm sunshine at a resort, overlooking the pool.  Is it possible to be jealous of a stuffy?? 




Have a wonderful weekend everyone and don't forget to check out Josephine Wu's collection of cute crochet patterns for yourself.  You will find her designs on Etsy, Craftsy, and Ravelry.  Enjoy!!


tara.

Monday, September 15, 2014

sneak peek

Don't you love homemade dishcloths?  I see them everywhere, from the craft fair to the high end boutique so I'm thinking they must be a favorite item in many kitchens.  


Here is a set of 3 different dishcloths that will allow you to practice your post stitches.  Hoping to have to pattern ready to go later this week!

tara.

Sunday, September 14, 2014

new crochet pattern - cables & lattice pillow cover by tara schreyer.


http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cables--lattice-pillow-cover

  SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate

Add a splash of color and sophistication to your favorite space by creating this pillow cover. The cables and lattice work provide tons of texture and interest and will work with any decor.

The pattern calls for 595 yds/11 oz of Cascade Yarn Eco+ 100% Peruvian Highland Wool or other comparable bulky weight yarn.
A knowledge of front/back post stitches as well as double and treble crochets is required. Many figure pictures are provided in the pattern to assist with creating the cables and lattice work. A slipcover for the pillow form is recommended but instructions on construction is not provided.

The finished pillow cover measures 14" x 24". Please note that measurements are approximate and will be affected by the gauge and the brand of yarn.


Buy Now

Purchase this pattern using the above link and receive 20% off by entering the coupon code "PILLOW20" at the checkout!
Offer valid until Friday - September 26, 2014




tara.


Thursday, September 11, 2014

sneak peek

Excited to have a new pillow and a splash of colour for my living room!!


Looking forward to releasing this pattern design for you all next week!



tara.

Tuesday, September 9, 2014

sneak peek.

Here's a peek at my current crochet pattern in the works....
 
 
The pattern for these "Shabby Chic Coasters" is almost ready!
 
 
 
 
kim.

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

new crochet pattern - textured pot holder by kim miller.


 
Textured Pot Holder by Kim Miller
 
Skill Level: Easy/Intermediate

Styles may change but our needs remain the same, so it was my desire to create a pretty functional pot holder that would fit into our modern decor. This fun pattern is highly addictive and because bobbles are used, as opposed to the popcorn stitch, the pot holder works up relatively fast!

This crochet pattern calls for one 68 yard ball of Bernat® Handicrafter® Cotton for each
pot holder, but any worsted weight (4) 100% cotton may be substituted. The pattern uses the following stitches: single crochet, double crochet, bobble, and picot.

The finished, unblocked pot holder measures 20.3 cm (8”) by 20.3 cm (8”)
 
 
 
 
 
(Purchase this pattern and receive 20% off by entering the coupon code "potholder20" at the checkout!
Offer valid until Tuesday - September 2nd, 2014)
 
 
 
kim.
 

Saturday, August 16, 2014

sneak peek.

This fun and highly addictive pattern for this richly textured pot holder should be ready for release very soon....that is if I can put my crochet hook down long enough to finish up the publishing aspect of the pattern ;)







kim.

Thursday, July 31, 2014

new crochet pattern - basket of owls baby blanket by kim miller.


http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/basket-of-owls-baby-blanket
 
Basket of Owls Baby Blanket by Kim Miller

Skill Level: Intermediate

This gorgeous, cabled baby blanket is full of texture, and will make a timeless gift that is sure be enjoyed and treasured for years.

This crochet baby blanket, featuring a border of 16 cabled owls, is worked from the center out. The owls buttons eyes are attached as you go, making it safer for baby. Also, the textured stitches hide the join at the end of each round, so other than the last few rounds of the owl panel (as shown in the last picture) the border is barely noticeable.

This crochet pattern includes lots of colour pictures to help you to successfully complete your project, but please note that the pattern is written in a condensed manner, so good pattern reading skills is recommended. The pattern calls for 4½ skeins of Berroco Vintage worsted weight yarn [100 g (3.5 oz)/200 meters (217 yards) per skein], and 32 – 16 mm (5/8”) buttons. The pattern uses the following stitches and techniques: adjustable ring, ch, sc, hdc, dc, fpdc, bpdc, fptr and picot and cluster. Instructions for the latter 5 stitches are included.

Finished Size: Unblocked = 68.6 cm (27”) by 68.6 cm (27”). Blocked = 71 cm (28”) by 71 cm (28”). Please note that the size is approximate and will be affected by the gauge and the brand of yarn.
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Purchase this pattern and receive 20% off by entering the coupon code "basketofowls20" at the checkout!
Offer valid until ThursdayJuly August 14th, 2014)

 
 
kim.

 

 

Monday, July 28, 2014

sneak peek.

The crochet pattern for this baby blanket was inspired by a very dear and sweet customer. It just so happens that as I was pondering a design for a square baby blanket, one of our customers contacted us, and suggested designing a pattern for a square baby blanket with a cabled owl border. I was immediately inspired and spent the rest of the day looking at stitch dictionaries and researching yarn.
 
Working from the center out presented all sorts of design challenges! After much frustration and tearing out, I'm so pleased with the finished results and happy to share with you a sneak peek.....
 
 
Just a few details to work out and the pattern for the "Basket of Owls Baby Blanket" will be ready for publication.
 
 
 
kim.
 
 

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

winter sale in july.


Come visit knotsewcute.etsy.com and receive 50% off all crochet patterns!
 
https://www.etsy.com/shop/knotsewcute?ref=hdr#
 
Our regular offer of buy 5 patterns in one transaction and receive 1 free still applies. Simply convo us, or leave us a note upon purchase as to your free pattern choice, and we will automatically send you your free pattern.
 
 
 
kim and tara.

Friday, June 27, 2014

that nasty word "gauge".


I can't think of 5 letters that can evoke more stress in the mind of most crocheters then the word "gauge". We've all seen it written in patterns, and we all know that it is something we should check, but it is so much easier to ignore it. Really, all we want to do is relax and crochet. Then when our project turns out to be any size, other than what we intended, we do what every good crocheter does...we cast all blame on the pattern and the designer. I know that I'm guilty of this and I'm sure that I'm not the only one, so I thought that I would take a few minutes to talk about gauge (also known as tension). Hopefully, this will take away some of the mystery and fear.

First off, what is gauge? Simply put gauge, or tension, is your guide as to how tight or how loose the designer crochets. Each of us is unique. Not everyone holds their yarn the same, or crochets the same. Some us crochet loosely while others of us crochet tightly, and for some of us our gauge is dependent on our mood. When we are happy and relaxed our gauge is loose, and when we are upset or tense our stitches are tighter then normal. The gauge is added to the pattern so that you are able to match your gauge, or tension to the designers. If your gauge is different then the designers then not only will this affect the finished size, but it will also affect the drape and feel of the fabric.

Now, comes the question...how do you check gauge? Before you start your crochet project you will want to work up a small test swatch. You want to know how many stitches and rows you are getting in a given measurement. Often, the designer will suggest a 4" (10 cm) square, but it is best to work up a few more stitches and rows then the gauge instructions recommend. This will ensure that you get a accurate measurement. Also, be sure to use the yarn weight and hook size recommended, and to follow all instructions regarding blocking and pressing. After you have crocheted your test swatch as directed, lay it out on a flat surface and using a metal or rigid ruler measure the length horizontally across the square. Mark the length with a pin at either end as shown.



Next, take the same measurement vertically across the square and again mark with a pin at either end.



If you are measuring the gauge over a pattern of stitches then the same principle applies.


Now, count the number of stitches and rows between the pins. If you have the same number of stitches and rows, as the pattern suggests, then you can proceed with your project. If you have more stitches, this means that you crochet tighter then the designer, and if you have less stitches you crochet looser.

The next question is, how do you match your gauge to the designers? We have found that the simplest way is to change your hook size. When a designers adds the hook size to a pattern this is meant to be used as a guide. There is no hard and fast rule that this is the hook size that you should use. The most important thing is to make sure that you are getting the same gauge or tension as the designer. If the designer crochets tighter then you do then this would mean that you would need to choose a smaller hook, and don't be alarmed if your hook size is drastically different then the hook size called for in the pattern. I'm a fairly loose crocheter so for amigurumi I've been known to use a hook as small as a 3.00 mm to a 3.50 mm (E) using a worsted weight yarn, whereas someone else may achieve the same gauge as me using a 5.00 mm (H) crochet hook.

Another way to match the gauge is to try holding the yarn in a different manner. If your stitches are too loose you can try wrapping the yarn around your ring finger as well as your little finger. If your stitches are too tight you can try not wrapping the yarn around your fingers at all. You will need to make up a new test swatch for each trial, but it is well worth the effort as it will help you to successfully finish your project and ensure that you have something that you are proud of and able to enjoy for years!

****************************************************

If you are interested in further information on gauge and garment design, Kim Guzman is a designer that I admire and an expert in the field. If you are ready to tackle a garment then I would recommend checking out this post by Kim: Problems with Gauge


kim.

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

finished project - seafoam shawl.


I've been eyeing up this one skein of Blue Heron Rayon Metallic in my yarn stash for some time now. Although, I tend to stick to more neutral colours I was drawn to this gorgeous colour way, and I've been pondering for a while now about what to make with it. I'm not a big fan of colour pooling so I was looking for a quick, lacy project that would really show off the yarn. I finally decided on the Seafoam Shawl by Kimberly K. McAlindin. Not only did I love the pattern, but it also turned out to be a great match for the yarn.


Seafoam Shawl by Kimberly K. McAlindin
  
Seafoam Shawl by Kimberly K. McAlindin
  
I thoroughly enjoyed crocheting with this yarn as it is amazingly soft, and not at all itchy, which is unlike most metallic yarns. Also, the drape is simply delicious! I used a 3.75 mm (F) crochet hook and if you compare my shawl to the original you will notice that I didn't follow gauge....ooops. I really should of taken the time to work out a test swatch as I would have preferred my finished project to have turned out a bit bigger. Totally my fault, but  in the end it is a nice size for a scarf. To open up the stitches and to stretch it out a bit, I lightly steamed blocked the shawl/scarf when it was done.
 
 
 
 
 
 
kim.