Ready for Cool Weather?

I don't post items for the knitters as often as I do for crocheters.  It's because I am better at one than the other.  So as not to leave out the knitters entirely (for which I apologize), here is something to think about as the days get shorter.

Let's not talk about afghans just yet, but maybe the time has come to consider working on some hats and scarves.

Lion Brand Yarn allows us to post their photos, so here's one for the knitters in an easy ribbed pattern.



The pattern for this one is given here: http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/L0611D.html

If you want to crochet something absolutely fast, try this hat made with an S hook and two strands of yarn held together.



Here's the free pattern for this one: http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/L20096.html

Stay warm, and happy crafting,

Kathi Linz

Large Hooks

I seem to be perfectly capable of crocheting myself into carpal tunnel/tennis elbow symptoms.  Where I used to be able to crochet for eight hours straight, now I can't.  (Funny how the mind still thinks in terms of a young, strong body until the pain starts.)

One thing that helps me when I know I'm going into a marathon session like crocheting shawls for hospice, is to get out my bigger hooks.  The wider grip seems to prevent the damage and the bigger stitches make the project go faster.  I can still see fast results without the consequences.

V-stitch is one of the really good patterns for a large hook.  It opens up like a Solomon's knot.  I use a Q hook and two strands of yarn.

Happy crafting,

Kathi

Another Crochet Project

I'm still working on shawls for hospice.  (Several more to come - I'm sure.)

This is the most recent work.  It's a soft ripple pattern done on an N hook made with a single strand of yarn.  That makes the work a bit lacier.

Happy crafting,

Kathi Linz