New Yarn Toy

 

A couple of weeks ago, I received Joann's coupon book, and in my shopping spirit, I thought I wanted to find something I liked rather than something I absolutely needed. However, my trip to Joann's was unsuccessful, or maybe I didn't look into every aisle. So, I decided to drive over to Michael's, hoping to find better luck there. I was under the impression they still accept coupons from other stores, but it turns out they only do price matching now.
While I was exploring the aisles at Michael's, I saw an umbrella yarn winder on the floor in front of a shelf. Magic moment—I remembered having so many yarn hanks sitting around waiting to be wound up! The thought of doing it by hand, wrapping each around a chair, sounded like a chore I wasn’t ready to spend time on just yet.
Since Michael's wouldn’t take my 50% coupon, I made my way back to Joann's, determined to find that yarn winder. What can I say? They had the exact same one as Michael's! Thanks to my coupons, I was able to snag it at 50% off since it wasn’t on sale. Since I had two coupons, I went back a day later and bought a second one, one for myself and one for a gift.
I brought my new find to our Knit and Crochet Circle on Wednesday, and we had a blast trying it out together. It was such a joy to share the moment with friends, and it feels good to have the perfect tool for winding my stash of yarn hanks.

Black Lace Purse

Pattern by Lisa Daehlin

Back in 2008, when Pilar and I opened All About Yarn in Azusa, I stumbled upon a beautiful pattern in a magazine that instantly caught my eye. It turned out that one of our clients loved it just as much as I did! At that time, we were building our reputation by creating custom knitting projects for our customers. One of my first orders was for a Lace Purse, which I crafted for a customer who came into the store, chose her yarn, and placed her order. Once I finished the purse, we proudly displayed it on our table for everyone to admire.

That experience sparked an idea: Why not turn this project into a knit-a-long for our Wednesday night and Saturday morning knitting groups? It was such a fun and exciting venture! 

We started the Lace Purse by knitting a circular lace mat and then picking up stitches around the doily. After completing the first mat, we started on a second one, sewed the bind-off edges together, lined it with fabric, and knitted a long handle to comfortably wear over the arm.

This project brought joy to those who participated and attracted many customers to our shop. It was a hit! We eventually expanded our offerings to include more knit-a-long classes, which became quite popular since the only requirement was to purchase the yarn from our store.

All About Yarn was the only independently owned yarn shop in Azusa and Covina at the time, and looking back on those early days in 2008 fills me with fond memories. It was a special time that truly shaped my journey in the yarn community.

Types of Natural Yarn

Here’s a description of various types of natural yarns, including their forms like hanks, skeins, and rolls, along with their characteristics:

Wool Yarn, often found in hanks or skeins, is warm, soft, and elastic. Perfect for cozy garments and accessories.

Cotton Yarn is available in skeins or balls. Its smooth, breathable properties make it perfect for summer projects like dishcloths and lightweight garments.

Linen Yarn, typically sold in hanks, is strong and durable, with a natural sheen. It is great for summer wear and home decor items.

Alpaca Yarn, commonly found in hanks or skeins, is luxuriously soft and warm, with a silky texture. It is excellent for scarves and blankets.

Bamboo Yarn is usually available in skeins. The texture is soft and drapey with a natural sheen. Good for lightweight garments and accessories.

Silk Yarn is often sold in hanks. Its characteristics are elegant and smooth, with a beautiful and warm feel to it. Ideal for special occasion garments and accessories.

All About Yarn Types

... and so many to choose from. Did you know that different yarn types can significantly impact your knitting and crochet projects in several ways?

Yarn comes in various weights (e.g., lace, fingering, worsted, bulky). The weight determines the thickness of the stitches and the overall drape of the finished piece. Heavier yarns create thicker, warmer items, while lighter yarns are better for delicate, airy projects.

Some yarns, like those blended with elastic fibers, have more stretch, making them great for fitted garments. Others, like cotton, have less elasticity, which can affect the shape and fit of the finished item.

Different yarn fibers absorb dye differently, affecting the vibrancy and depth of colors. Wool often absorbs dye more vividly than acrylic, leading to richer colors in knitted or crocheted items.

Yarn types also influence the durability and care requirements of the finished project. Synthetic yarns like acrylic are often more durable and easier to wash, while natural fibers like silk or alpaca may require more delicate handling.

Yarn types vary in texture, affecting the project's final feel. Wool yarn is warm and soft, ideal for cozy garments, while cotton yarn is smooth and breathable, suitable for summer items.

The type of yarn can also affect the cost of a project. Natural fibers tend to be more expensive than synthetic options, which can influence budget considerations for larger projects.

In summary, choosing the right yarn type is crucial for achieving the desired outcome in knitting and crochet projects. It affects the texture, appearance, durability, and overall success of the finished piece.

Simple Beanie Pattern Created by Copilot

Materials:
• Circular needle size 16 and set of 3 to 5 short needles
• Worsted weight yarn (approximately 100 grams)
• Stitch markers
• Tapestry needle

Instructions:
Cast on 80 stitches using the long-tail cast-on method. Place a stitch marker to mark the beginning of the round and join in the round, being careful not to twist the stitches.

Ribbing:
Knit 1, Purl 1 (K1, P1) ribbing for 2 inches (about 5 cm).

Body:
Knit every stitch (stockinette stitch) until the beanie measures 6 inches (about 15 cm) from the cast-on edge.

Crown Shaping:
Round 1: (K8, K2tog) repeat from * to * around. (72 stitches)
Round 2: Knit all stitches.
Round 3: (K7, K2tog) repeat from * to * around. (64 stitches)
Round 4: Knit all stitches.
Round 5: (K6, K2tog) repeat from * to * around. (56 stitches)
Round 6: Knit all stitches.
Round 7: (K5, K2tog) repeat from * to * around. (48 stitches)
Round 8: Knit all stitches.
Round 9: (K4, K2tog) repeat from * to * around. (40 stitches)
Round 10: Knit all stitches.
Round 11: (K3, K2tog) repeat from * to * around. (32 stitches)
Round 12: Knit all stitches.
Round 13: (K2, K2tog) repeat from * to * around. (24 stitches)
Round 14: Knit all stitches.
Round 15: (K1, K2tog) repeat from * to * around. (16 stitches)
Round 16: (K2tog) Repeat from * to * around. (8 stitches)

Finishing:
Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail. Thread the tail through the remaining 8 stitches and pull tight to close the top of the beanie. Weave in all loose ends securely using a tapestry needle to prevent them from unraveling.

Customization Options:
1. Color Changes: You can add stripes or color blocks by changing the yarn color at different points in the pattern. For example, you could switch colors every few inches or create a pattern with alternating colors.
2. Brim Style: Instead of the K1 P1 ribbing, you can try different ribbing styles like K2, P2, or a twisted rib for a unique look.
3. Pattern Stitches: Add texture to your beanie by incorporating pattern stitches like cables, seed stitches, or a simple lace pattern.
4. Pom-Pom: Attach a pom-pom to the top of the beanie for a fun and playful touch. You can make a pom-pom using leftover yarn or purchase a pre-made one.
5. Ear Flaps: For extra warmth, you can add ear flaps to your beanie. Knit two small triangles and attach them to the sides of the beanie.

How Sider ChatGPT Can Help You Create Knitting and Crochet Patterns

Knitting and crochet are wonderful crafts that let you express your creativity. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crafter, coming up with new patterns can be challenging. That's where Sider: ChatGPT comes in! This tool can help you create unique patterns for your next project. Here’s how it works and some examples to inspire you.

Here are two examples of patterns that Sider: ChatGPT createt:

Example 1: Knitted Scarf Pattern

Pattern Name: Cozy Cable Scarf

Materials:

• Worsted weight yarn (about 200 yards)

• Size 8 (5 mm) knitting needles

• Cable needle

Instructions:

1. Cast On: Start with 30 stitches.

2. Row 1: Knit all stitches.

3. Row 2: Purl all stitches.

4. Row 3: *Knit 4, then use the cable needle to cross 4 stitches, knit 4; repeat from * to the end.

5. Row 4: Purl all stitches.

6. Repeat Rows 1-4 until the scarf is as long as you want.

7. Bind Off: Knit the last row and bind off loosely.

Finishing: Weave in any loose ends and block the scarf to show off the cable pattern.

Example 2: Crocheted Granny Square Blanket

Pattern Name: Colorful Granny Square Blanket

Materials:

• Worsted weight yarn in various colors

• Size H (5 mm) crochet hook

Instructions:

1. Make a Magic Ring.

2. Round 1: Chain 3 (this counts as your first double crochet), then add 2 more double crochets into the ring, chain 2. *Add 3 double crochets into the ring, chain 2; repeat from * until you have 4 clusters. Join with a slip stitch to the top of the chain 3.

3. Round 2: Slip stitch to the first chain-2 space, chain 3, and add 2 double crochets in the same space, chain 2.* Add 3 double crochets in the next chain-2 space, chain 2; repeat from* around. Join.

4. Continue: Repeat Round 2, changing colors as you like, until your squares are the desired size.

5. Join Squares: Connect the squares together with slip stitch or whip stitch.

Finishing: Weave in any loose ends and block the blanket for a neat finish.

Conclusion

Sider: ChatGPT is a fantastic tool for anyone who loves knitting and crochet. It can help you generate new ideas, create personalized patterns, and learn new skills. Whether you're making a cozy scarf or a colorful blanket, let Sider: ChatGPT guide you on your crafting journey. Happy crafting!

My Fair Isle Adventure - Tundra Pattern Beanies

I finished the second Fair Isle beanie using the "Tundra" pattern from the book Inspired Fair Isle Knits by Fiona Ellis. I like Fair Isle knitting, and this pattern looked great; the chart was easy to follow, and the detailed explanations made the knitting process enjoyable. I love how the Tundra pattern plays with colors and watching the design come together as you knit along.
After completing the first one, I decided to make the second beanie in reversed colors. It was interesting to see how different they would look side by side, and I’m pleased with the results! They turned out great and really captured the spirit of the season.
Check out the pictures. 

Maybe it inspires you to create your own Fair Isle project! 

General Beanie Knit Pattern

Materials Needed:

- Worsted weight yarn (approximately 100-150 yards)

- Circular knitting needles (16-inch size 8 or 9)

- Double-pointed needles (size 8 or 9 for the crown)

- Stitch marker

- Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Gauge:

- 4 stitches per inch in stockinette stitch

Instructions:

1. Cast On:

   - Cast on 80 stitches (or adjust based on your desired size) using the long-tail cast-on method.

   - Join in the round, being careful not to twist the stitches. Place a stitch marker to indicate the beginning of the round.

2. Ribbing:

   - Round 1: *K2, P2* around.

   - Repeat Round 1 until the ribbing measures about 2-3 inches.

3. Body of the Beanie:

   - Switch to stockinette stitch (knit every round) and continue until the piece measures about 6-7 inches from the cast-on edge.

4. Decreasing for the Crown:

   - Round 1: *K8, K2tog* around (72 stitches).

   - Round 2: Knit all stitches.

   - Round 3: *K7, K2tog* around (64 stitches).

   - Round 4: Knit all stitches.

   - Round 5: *K6, K2tog* around (56 stitches).

   - Round 6: Knit all stitches.

   - Round 7: *K5, K2tog* around (48 stitches).

   - Round 8: Knit all stitches.

   - Round 9: *K4, K2tog* around (40 stitches).

   - Round 10: Knit all stitches.

   - Round 11: *K3, K2tog* around (32 stitches).

   - Round 12: Knit all stitches.

   - Round 13: *K2, K2tog* around (24 stitches).

   - Round 14: Knit all stitches.

   - Round 15: *K1, K2tog* around (16 stitches).

   - Round 16: *K2tog* around (8 stitches).

5. Finishing:

   - Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail. Thread the tail through the remaining stitches and pull tight to close the top of the beanie.

   - Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle.

6. Optional:

   - Add a pom-pom to the top for a fun finish or embellish with a contrasting color.

Customization Ideas:

- Colors: Use multiple colors for stripes or a gradient effect.

- Stitch Patterns: Incorporate cables or other stitch patterns in the body of the beanie.

- Size Adjustments: Adjust the number of cast-on stitches and the length of the ribbing to fit different head sizes.

 

Fairisle Beanie

To me, relaxation is sitting comfortably on the couch, a cat curled up in my lap, the puppy beside me, a warm cup of coffee on the table, and my hands busy with knitting needles as I create a new project.

Artisan Hat

While flipping through one of my many pattern books, I came across the Tuck Stitch, which sparked a memory of a beautiful hat I had seen on the Interweave website. The Pipette Hat, designed by Laura Hulslander, featured a lovely three-part tuck stitch pattern. 

Inspired by that design, I decided to create my own version and named it the Artisan Hat.
My Artisan Hat starts with a classic beanie shape, making it perfect for knitters of all levels. What makes it special are the unique tuck stitch rows, which add texture and interest. Plus, I’ve included a cozy rolled rim for an extra touch of style.
If you’re looking to try something new and create a stylish, fun-to-knit hat, I invite you to try the Artisan Hat! You’ll love the way the tuck stitch brings your project to life.