Deer Antlers - Free pattern

Good morning everyone!
Today's pattern comes with a little festive cheer. Last week my youngest, Miss M walked out from her room with... Well...  Like this!

Yes, she sticky taped antlers on her head. While I admire her creativity, sticky tape on ones head isn't ideal, especially when you have hair stuck in it. So in comes mamma with a promise to make some antlers, that don't involve taking your eyebrows off when you remove them! Could these have been a little neater? Sure! But you know what, we're not fussed about being super neat. Miss M LOVES her antlers and has proudly worn them every day since, I guess we'll call that a win hey! I hope your little ones enjoy these as much as mine do!

You will need
Worsted Weight yarn in 2 different browns (DK works just as well). (Use the lighter of the 2 for the ears)
4.5mm hook
Headband
Sewing needle

Main Antler Piece - Make 2
1: ch2, sc into 1st chain 6 times, place marker
2-14: sc in each stitch around (6)
15: 2sc in each front loop around (12) Finish off, leaving a long tail for sewing.

Smaller Piece - Make 2
1: ch2, sc in the first chain 5 times, place marker
2-5: sc in each stitch around (5)
6: hdc in the next stitch, dc in the next stitch, hdc in the next stitch
7: ch1, turn, repeat row 6. Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing to main antler. Attach to the antler pointing inwards.

Band Cover
1: ch2, sc in the first chain 6 times
2+ sc in each stitch around continually until the tube is 3 inches shorter then your headband. End off and slide over your headband. You should have 1.5 inches left on each end uncovered so it can tuck behind the ears easily. Weave in all ends.

Sew antlers onto the headband.

Ears - Make 2
1: ch2, sc 6 times into the 1st chain, join. (6)
2: ch2, *2hdc in the first stitch, hdc in the next*, repeat around (9)
3: ch2, *2hdc in the first stitch, hdc in the next 2 stitches*, repeat around (12)
4-5: ch2, hdc around, join.
End off leaving a long tail. Pinch the bottom of the ear in half and sew together before sewing onto the headband.

Ariel Booties - Micro Preemie Keepsake

Good morning lovely people!
Today's pattern is a follow on from last week's jacket. A little pair of simple booties for 16 weeks. They may be more of a keepsake then a wearable, but as I say, it is nice to know the option is there to make something size appropriate. These tiny booties are barely an inch long, and very quick to make.

You will need
2mm hook
Fingering / 4 ply (I used Moda Vera Gelato)
2 small bows

1: ch8, hdc in the 2nd chain from hook, hdc in the next 5 chains, hdc 4 times in the last chain, do not turn, working on the opposite side of the stitches just made (using the same chains) hdc in all 6 stitches, join to the first hdc with a sl st. (16)

2: ch1, 2sc in the first stitch, sc in the next 6 stitches, 2sc in each of the next 3 stitches, sc in the next 6 stitches, join. (20)

3: ch1, sc in each stitch around, join. (20)

4: ch2, hdc in the first 6 stitches, dc2tg 4 times, hdc in the last 6 stitches, join. (16)

5: ch2, hdc in the first 6 stitches, dc2tg twice, hdc in the last 6 stitches, join. (14)

End off main colour. If desired sl st around opening loosely with a contrasting colour.

I added small bows to the top of the bootie with glue.

No Yeast Pizza Dough - Recipe Review

 
Good afternoon all!

Well today is a bit of a different post for me, but one I hope to make a regular on here.

See, I like to bake. I like to cook. I like filling my freezer with both! Im not terribly fantastic at it, but I am a regular mamma with a large family that need to eat. So I thought I'd share my kitchen adventures. The good, the bad, and the often ugly, because hey, not everyone can pipe out perfect icing!

Today I noticed I had a large lot of capsicum (red peppers) and onion. What to do, what to do! Mini pizza's, absolutely. Now I am all for quick and easy so I wanted to find a dough that didn't involve me having to rub in butter and that didn't mean waiting an hour for yeast to do its thing. A bit of searching online and I found THIS no yeast pizza dough recipe over on cooks.com. Sounded like a winner to me so off I went!

First up, this dough, it is OH so easy. Like seriously easy. You just throw all the ingredients at the bowl and mix it up. Simples! Now because I had a LOT of ingredients in the fridge to use up I ended up making 2 double batches of dough. Once made I pulled the dough into blobs that were roughly golf ball sized and then rolled them out to palm sized. I wasn't overly fussed about them being round, we're more for taste then presentation in this mamma house! The dough was enough to make 52 mini pizza's in total. Some of which Hubby and I ate quality controlled at a time that just happened to be around lunch.

I was very impressed with the dough. It cooked wonderfully, browned ever so slightly and tasted fantastic! A big win in my book, and something I will be adding to the make again list for sure! Once topped, the pizza's were baked in a 180c oven for 10 minutes each. Interested to know what I used for toppings? Well, here is a list!

Salami
Ham
Bacon
Leftover chicken breast
Pineapple
Mushroom
Onion
Capsicum
Cheese (all the leftover "bits" from cheddar to smoked, it got grated and chucked on!)
Tomato pizza paste
BBQ pizza paste

The result? YUM. Super YUM!

I do think next time I make some I might shake it up a little by mixing some cheese and herbs into the dough itself to see how that goes, and as for toppings again it will likely be whatever is in the fridge that needs using. I don't have hopes of these lasting that long, the girls love adding them to their school lunches!

Ariel Cardi - Free Micro Preemie Crochet Pattern

Good afternoon lovlies,

This weeks pattern comes as a request from the CCP crafters group. It is a very small and dainty jacket/cardi for 16-18 weeks. I will have a hat and booties up to match it in the future. I know bubba's of this size more often then not don't wear clothing and instead use wraps/cocoons ect, but it is incredibly important that there IS clothing options available for those who do need them, and as it stands now, there is such a lack of items to fit the 16-20 week range. Hopefully I can bridge that gap some with a few items for people to make and donate.


Supplies
2.00mm hook
Fingering / 4 ply (I used Moda Vera Gelato)

1: chain 31, hdc in the second chain from hook and each across (30)

2: ch2, turn, 2dc in the first stitch, dc in the next stitch, repeat across. (45)

3: ch2, turn, 2hdc in the first stitch, hdc in the next 2 stitches, repeat across (60)

4: ch2, turn, dc in the first 13 stitches, ch5, skip 8, dc in the next 18 stitches, ch5, skip 8, dc in the last 13 stitches. (44dc's, 10ch's)

5: ch2, turn, dc in each stitch and chain across (54)

6-11: ch2, turn, dc in each stitch across

End off and weave in tails.

Sleeves
1: Join yarn to one of the chain stitches on the arm hole (will be the underarm section) and ch2, dc evenly around the armhole 19 times, join. (19)

2-3: ch2, dc in each stitch around, join. (19)

4: ch2, dc2tg, dc in the remaining 17 stitches, join. (18)

5: ch2, dc in each stitch around, join. (18)

6: ch2, hdc2tg, hdc in each remaining stitch, join. (17)
End off and weave in ends.

Repeat 1-6 for second sleeve.

Add a button and weave in all ends and you are done!


DUTCH TRANSLATION - met dank aan Karin

Wol:
Scheepjes Colour Crafter met haaknaald 3 of 3.5 of Soft van Zeeman met haaknaald 2.5 of 3 in zachte kleurtjes Of haakkatoen geschikt voor haaknaald 2 dan wordt het een stuk kleiner maar die maatjes zijn soms ook nodig. Je kunt dit vestje ook met verschillende kleuren haken

Haak 31 lossen
Rij 1:
Haak 1 half stokje in de 2e losse vanaf je haaknaald en elke overige losse. (30) Haak 2 lossen en keer je werk.

Rij 2:
*Haak 2 stokjes in de 1e steek, 1 stokje in de volgende steek*, herhaal tussen *-* tot het einde (45) Haak 2 lossen en keer je werk.

Rij 3:
* Haak 2 halve stokjes in de 1e steek, half 1 stokje in volgende 2 steken* herhaal tussen *-*tot het einde (60) Haak 2 lossen en keer je werk.

Rij 4:
Haak 1 stokje in de eerste 13 steken, haak 5 lossen, sla 8 steken over, haak 1 stokje in de volgende 18 steken, haak 5 lossen, sla 8 steken over, haak 1 stokje in de laatste 13 steken (44 stokjes, 10 lossen) Haak 2 lossen en keer je werk.

Rij 5:
Haak 1 stokje in elke steek (ook 1 stokje in de 10 losse uit rij 4) (54) Haak 2 lossen en keer je werk.

Rij 6-11:
Haak in elke steek 1 stokje, kant je werk af en werk de draadjes weg.

Mouwen:

Rij 1:
Hecht je garen aan in 1 van de losse steken bij het armsgat (het mooist is aan de onderkant), haak 2 lossen, maak 19 stokjes verdeeld rond het armsgat, haak vast met een halve vaste in de beginlosse (19) Haak 2 lossen en keer je werk.

Rij 2-3:
Haak 1 stokje in elke steek, haak vast met een halve vaste in de beginlosse (19) Haak 2 lossen en keer je werk.

Rij 4:
Haak 2 stokjes samen, haak 1 stokje in de resterende 17 steken, haak vast met halve vaste (18) Haak 2 lossen en keer je werk.

Rij 5:
Haak 1 stokje in elke steek, haak vast met halve vaste (18) Haak 2 lossen en keer je werk.

Rij 6:
Haak 2 halve stokjes samen, haak vast met halve vaste (17)

Kant je werk af en werk draadjes weg.

Herhaal rij 1-6 voor 2e mouw.

Naai een mooi klein knoopje op het vestje en klaar is je vestje.

Micro Micro Diaper Pattern

Good morning beautiful people,

Today's pattern is for a very small diaper. This month our CCP crafters group have been working on diapers, pants and keepsakes, and one of the challenges we had was finding a range of diaper patterns in multiple sizes, especially the very small. So of course, I set out to rectify that. This diaper fits on my 16 week doll quite snugly. I know sometimes not all babies of this size would actually be able to wear such an item, but it is comforting to know that the option is there should someone need it. They are very quick to whip up. I'll have some more diaper patterns over the coming weeks.

You will need:
3ply yarn (Light Fingering)
2.5m hook
1 safety pin for securing, or ribbon or a small button.

1: ch32, hdc in the second chain from hook and in the 29 chains, 3hdc in the last chain, do not turn, instead working on the opposite side of the chains you just used, hdc in each of the next 29 chains, 2hdc in the last chain and join.

2: slst in the first 7 stitches, ch2, hdc in the next 16 stitches

3-4: ch2, turn, hdc in each stitch across

5: ch2, turn, hdc2tg, hdc in the next 12 stitches, hdc2tg

6: ch2, turn, hdc2tg, hdc in the next 10 stitches, hdc2tg

7: ch2, turn, hdc2tg, hdc in the next 8 stitches, hdc2tg

8: ch2, turn, hdc2tg, hdc in the next 6 stitches, hdc2tg

9: ch2, turn, hdc2tg, hdc in the next 4 stitches, hdc2tg

10-12: ch2, turn, hdc in each stitch across (6)

13: ch2, turn, 2hdc in each stitch across (12)

14: ch2, turn, hdc in each stitch across

15: ch2, turn, 2hdc in the first stitch, hdc in the next 10 stitches, 2hdc in the last stitch (14)

16: ch2, turn, 2hdc in the first stitch, hdc in the next 12 stitches, 2hdc in the last stitch (16)

17: ch1, but do not turn, sc evenly around the entire diaper, being sure to do 3 sc's in the corners, join when you get back to the ch1. Weave in ends.

If you want to use a tie closure, weave it evenly in and out of the stitches in the middle of the waist band.

George The Snowman

Hello all!

Today I have a new free pattern for you all. Meet George. George is a snowman, and a cute one at that! He likes ginger cookies and peppermint bark and his friends (who we will meet soon enough!) Just in time for some last minute Christmas Crochet! Arr who said this year could go so fast? George is made in one piece, meaning no joining his head to his body, HORRAH! He is also worked in the round, so no need to join at the end of each round, just move your marker.George is about 6.5 inches tall from base to the top of his pompom making him a perfect shelf sitter or stocking stuffer.

Want to make a George of your own? Or perhaps a whole tribe of them! Here is how!

You will need:
DK/8ply yarn in white, orange, red and green (or any other colour combo you choose)
3mm hook
2 safety eyes (or you could sew them on, or use puff paint too)
Stitch marker
Sewing needle.
Stuffing

George
With white
1: ch2, sc 8 times in the 1st chain, place marker
2: 2sc in each stitch around
3: *2sc in the first stitch, sc in the next stitch* repeat around
4: sc in each stitch around
5: *2sc in the first stitch, sc in the next 2 stitches*, repeat around
6-10: sc in each stitch around
11: *sc2tg, sc in the next 2 stitches*, repeat around
12: *sc2tg, sc in the next stitch*, repeat around
13-14: sc in each stitch around
15: 2sc in each stitch around
16: sc in each stitch around
17: *2sc in the first stitch, sc in the next stitch*, repeat around
18-21: sc in each stitch around
Attach eyes to desired place and start stuffing head.
22: *sc2tg, sc in the next stitch*, repeat around
23-24: sc in each stitch around
25: *sc2tg, sc in the next stitch*, repeat around
26: *sc2tg, sc in the next stitch*, repeat around
Add more stuffing, George should be stuffed firmly to help him stand
27: sc2tg around.
End off leaving a long tail. Use the tail to weave in and out of the remaining stitches and gather closed.

Nose
With ornage
1: ch2, sc 5 times in the first stitch, join.
2: sc in each stitch around, join.
End off and leave a long tail to sew onto George's head.

Hat
With green
1: ch2, hdc into the 1st chain 5 times, join.
2: ch2, *2hdc in the first stitch, hdc in the next stitch*, repeat around, join.
Change to red
3: ch2, *2hdc in the first stitch, hdc in the next stitch*, repeat around, join.
Change to green
4: ch2, hdc in each stitch around, join.
5: ch2, 2hdc in each stitch around, join.
Change to red
6: ch2, *2hdc in the next stitch, hdc in the next stitch*, repeat around, join.
Change to green
7: ch2, hdc in each stitch around, join.
8: ch1, sc in each stitch around.
End off, leaving a long tail to sew hat to George's head.

Using red and green yarn, make a small pompom. I use the fork method, if you are unfamiliar with this, there is an excellent tutorial HERE by Mollie Makes

Scarf
With green
1: ch52, sc in the second chain from hook and each chain across.
End green, change to red (I find it easier to join in the middle of the scarf rather then the end)
2: ch1, sc in each stitch across, when you get to the end, sc3 times in the end, then working on the other side of the green stitches, sc across until you get to the other end, 3sc in that end as well, and then sc in all stitches back to where you started, join. End off and weave in tails. Tie scarf around George's neck. You can choose to sew it in place if you like.

Edith Bonnet - Free Crochet Pattern

Good morning lovlies! This weeks pattern is for a fancy little bonnet. It may look a little complicated but it is a super easy pattern and Im sure even beginners will be able to attempt this beauty. It comes in 2 sizes, prem 24-26 weeks gestation, and Newborn (full term) I have only tried this with a variety of pinks and whites so far but I bet it will look amazing in all sorts of fantastic colour combinations.

For 24-26 weeks you will need:
DK weight/8ply/Light worsted yarn in a main colour and contrasting colour (you can also use 4ply/fingering  for contrast if you want it thinner, just stitch loosely)
4mm hook

1: ch3, dc in the first ch 9 times, join
2: ch3, 2dc in each stitch around, join
3: ch3, *2dc in the first stitch, dc in the next stitch*, repeat around, join.
4: ch3, *2dc in the first stitch, dc in the next 2 stitches*, repeat around, do not join.
5: ch2, turn, hdc in the front loops only of each stitch around.
6-8: ch3, turn, dc in each stitch around.
9: ch2, turn, hdc in the front loops only of each stitch around
10: ch2, turn, hdc in each stitch around, do not turn
11: sc evenly around the neck line of the bonnet. End off yarn.

Hold bonnet so the front is facing you, and the rear is pointing away. Join yarn to an unworked loop on the left side of round 5 with a sl st. sc into the same stitch. *hdc 3 times in the next loop, sl st into the next loop* repeat across, sc into the last back loop. End off.

Join your yarn in the same manner to the unworked loop from round 9 and sc in the same stitch, *dc 3 times in the next loop, sl st into the next loop* repeat around, sc in the last loop. End off.

With your contrasting colour, join the yarn to the first sc on the front ruffles. *Sc into each of the 3 dc's, sc over the top of the sl st (there will be a gap below each sl st from the previous row, use that to complete the sc)* repeat across, sc in the last sc. End off.

With contrasting colour, chain 40, join yarn to a corner of round 10 and sc in each stitch across until you get to the second last stitch, ch1, sl st into the last stitch, chain 40 and end off.

Weave in all ends.

For Newborn Size:
DK weight/8ply/Light worsted yarn in a main colour and contrasting colour (you can also use 4ply/fingering  for contrast if you want it thinner, just stitch loosely)
5mm hook

1: ch3, dc in the first ch 12 times, join
2: ch3, 2dc in each stitch around, join
3: ch3, *2dc in the first stitch, dc in the next stitch*, repeat around, join.
4: ch3, *2dc in the first stitch, dc in the next 2 stitches*, repeat around, do not join.
5: ch2, turn, hdc in the front loops only of each stitch around.
6-9: ch3, turn, dc in each stitch around.
10: ch2, turn, hdc in the back loops only of each stitch around
11: ch2, turn, dc in each stitch around, do not turn
12: sc evenly around the neck line of the bonnet. End off yarn.

Hold bonnet so the front is facing you, and the rear is pointing away. Join yarn to an unworked loop on the left side of round 5 with a sl st. sc into the same stitch. *hdc 3 times in the next loop, sl st into the next loop* repeat across, sc into the last back loop. End off.

oin your yarn in the same manner to the unworked loop from round 9 and sc in the same stitch, *dc 4 times in the next loop, sl st into the next loop* repeat around, sc in the last loop. End off.

With your contrasting colour, join the yarn to the first sc on the front ruffles. *Sc into each of the 3 dc's, sc over the top of the sl st (there will be a gap below each sl st from the previous row, use that to complete the sc)* repeat across, sc in the last sc. End off.

With contrasting colour, chain 45, join yarn to a corner of round 10 and sc in each stitch across until you get to the second last stitch, ch1, sl st into the last stitch, chain 40 and end off.

Weave in all ends.

Product Review - 6 Flowers Icing Images

Good morning lovlies!

Today I have something just a little bit different for you all. My very first non crochet product review! I was lucky enough to receive a trial sheet of cupcake toppers from the amazing gals over at 6 Flowers Icing Images to have a play with.

So let's start with the facts. The icing sheets from 6 Flowers are gluten free, egg free, dairy free AND vegan friendly. That's a whole bunch of safe right there, straight up making them great for parties.

The sheets themselves, providing they are stored in a ziplock/airtight dark environment will last for a whole year. That makes planning ahead a whole heap easier! Big win there that's for sure!

I started off with some basic vanilla cupcakes. I actually used a new recipe for them that I hadn't previously tried, and while they didn't rise quite as much as other batters, still tasted great.

We then topped them off with a basic butter icing with a soft pink tint to it.

Then comes the toppers! Right up these were super easy to remove from the sheets, they came right out without fuss, no ripping or effort needed. I was pretty impressed with that. Even the kids got in on the action and helped put them on the cupcakes.

The colour of the images is fantastic, like really fantastic. They are bright and vibrant, even after sitting in the fridge. No running or bubbling either which is great.

I guess the big thing here is the taste! I am happy to say they also taste great. None of that paperish taste that the edible images you get with premix box cakes has. All 3 kids really enjoyed them, and I'd call that a huge winner right there.

 All in all I am absolutely thrilled with these, and I can't wait to place an order for Christmas ones. If you are in Tas (Or Aus, as they will have posting abilities soon enough) then I can't recommend these enough. Especially if you are wanting a quick and easy way to make a fantastic looking cake for a party and have zero decorating skills. It could not be easier and at only $10 for a sheet of 15, a great price as well. They also do full sized round cake toppers and will be adding A3 ability to their range soon and can even print out your very own photos. Yummo! Pop on over and check them out on Facebook at 6 Flowers Icing Images

Lincoln Beanie - Free crochet pattern

Good morning beautiful people.

I hope the start to your day has been gentle. Today I have a sweet little hat pattern for you that takes all of 10 minutes to whip up. It will fit 14-16 weeks gestation and used only a very tiny amount of yarn. Perfect for the scraps of special colours left over from bigger projects. It is only 6 rounds in total, so a very easy take along project. When you make the colour changes, I find it easier to drop the main colour and pick up the contrasting, rather than cutting the main and having to rejoin it.

You will need:
3.5mm hook
DK/8ply/light worsted weight 3 yarn in a main and contrasting colour

1: ch3, dc in the first chain 8 times, join
2: ch3, dc twice in each stitch around, join.
3: ch3, dc in each stitch around, join.
4: change to contrasting colour, ch1, sc in each stitch around, join.
5: change to main colour, ch3, dc in each stitch around, join.
6: change to contrasting colour, ch1, sc in each stitch around, join.

End off all colours and weave in tails.

Molly Bonnet - Free Crochet Pattern

Good morning everyone.
Today's pattern is a super easy beginner one for a sweet little bonnet. It only uses dc's, hdc's and chains and is very fast to make. This bonnet will fit a bub of around 22 weeks and looks great in all sorts of colours.

You will need:
8ply/dk/light worsted/ weight 3 yarn in a main and contrasting colour.
4mm hook

Starting with main colour
1. ch3, dc 10 times into the 1st ch, join.
2. ch3, 2dc in each stitch around, join
3. ch3, *2dc in the first stitch, dc in the next sticth*, repeat around, do not join.
4. ch3, turn, dc in each stitch across.
5-7. ch3, turn, dc across.
8. ch2, do not turn, evenly work  hdc stitches along the neckline of the bonnet (edges of the dc rows) until you get to the corner. End off main colour.
9. With contrasting colour, chain 25, join to the corner of the bonnet, ch2, hdc in each stitch across until the second last stitch, ch2, sl st into the last stitch, ch25 and end off.

Weave in all tails and ends and if you like attach decorations.

Elliot Beanie - Free Crochet Pattern

Good morning beautiful people,

Today's beanie pattern is bursting full of textures! The beauty of it is, you only need to know how to do 3 stitches! DC, FPHDC and BPHDC. If you are not familiar with front and back post stitching, there is a great video on it HERE by the amazing Clare aka bobwilson123 that will help you out.

This hat will fit a bub at 32-34 weeks gestation if made as below. I have included instructions after the pattern on making it fit a brand new baby and also 0-3 Months

For 32-34 weeks
DK/8ply/light worsted/weight 3 yarn in main and contrasting colours
4.00mm hook.

With main colour
1: ch3, dc 10 times into the first chain, join.
2: ch3, 2dc in each stitch around, join.
3: ch3, *2dc in the first stitch, dc in the next stitch*, repeat around, join.
4: ch3, *2dc in the first stitch, dc in the next 2 stitches*, repeat around, join.
5: ch3, dc in each stitch around, join.
Change to contrasting colour
6: ch2, hdc in each stitch around, join.
7: ch2, *fphdc around the first stitch, bphdc around the next stitch*, repeat around, join.
8: ch2, *bphdc around the next stitch (which will be a fphdc), fphdc around the next stitch (will be a bphdc)* repeat around, join.
9-10: Repeat rounds 7 and 8
Change to main colour
11-12: ch3, dc in each stitch around, join.

For Brand New Baby and 0-3 Months (Shown Below)
Worsted/Weight 4/ 10 or 12ply yarn in main and contrasting colours. (The yellow in this hat is RHSS, the brown is 4seasons Marvel 12ply (Aus yarn)
5.5mm Hook

With main colour
1: ch3, dc 10 times into the first chain, join.
2: ch3, 2dc in each stitch around, join.
3: ch3, *2dc in the first stitch, dc in the next stitch*, repeat around, join.
FOR 0-3 ONLY
4: ch3, *2dc in the first stitch, dc in the next 2 stitches*, repeat around, join.
For all other sizes continue on as follows.
5: ch3, dc in each stitch around, join.
Change to contrasting colour
6: ch2, hdc in each stitch around, join.
7: ch2, *fphdc around the first stitch, bphdc around the next stitch*, repeat around, join.
8: ch2, *bphdc around the next stitch (which will be a fphdc), fphdc around the next stitch (will be a bphdc)* repeat around, join.
9-10: Repeat rounds 7 and 8
Change to main colour
11-12: ch3, dc in each stitch around, join.

Kaitlynn Beanie - Free Crochet Pattern

Good morning lovlies.
Today I have for you a dainty little beanie that features the V stitch. They will fit 30-32 weeks gestation and are very easy to memories. Ive made so many of these in the car doing the school run!

You will need:
4ply/fingering/weight 1(superfine) yarn.
3.5mm hook

1: ch2, dc 8 times in the first chain, join.
2: ch2, dc twice in each stitch around, join.
3: ch4, dc in the same stitch, (dc, ch1, dc) in each stitch around, join (to the 3rd ch)
4: slst into the ch1 space, ch4, dc in the same space, (dc, ch1, dc) in each ch1 space around, join (to the 3rd ch)
5-10: Repeat round 4
11: ch2, hdc in each chain and stitch around, join.

End off and weave in tails.

Michael Beanie - Free Crochet Pattern

Hello all. Another beanie pattern today. I've been on a bit of a roll with hats recently so I hope you don't get sick of them all. I know a lot of you have been holding out for some newborn sized patterns, so Im going to try, where possible, to do these hats in prem sizes and then in newborn. Some might not work but I'll deff see how I go at getting some more sizes for you. Id like to go back through all the other patterns and do the same thing, time permitting.

This is a multi size pattern.

Making this hat in prem sizes
DK/Light Worsted/8ply yarn in a main and contrasting colour
+ 4mm hook = a hat for 22 weeks gestation (10cm tall x 9.5cm across)
+4.5mm hook = a hat for 24 weeks gestation (10.5cm tall x 10cm across)


1: ch3, dc in the 1st chain 9 times, join.
2: ch2, 2dc in each stitch around, join.
3: ch2, *2dc in the first stitch, dc in the next stitch* repeat around, join.
4: ch2, *dc in the first 2 stitches, fpdc in the next stitch* repeat around, join.
Change to contrasting colour
5: ch2, *dc in the first 2 stitches, fpdc around the fpdc from the previous row* repeat around, join.
Change to main colour
6: ch2, *dc in the first 2 stitches, fpdc around the fpdc from the previous row* repeat around, join.
Change to contrasting colour
7: ch2, *dc in the first 2 stitches, fpdc around the fpdc from the previous row* repeat around, join.
Change to main colour
8: ch2, *dc in the first 2 stitches, fpdc around the fpdc from the previous row* repeat around, join.
9: ch2, hdc in each stitch around, back loops only, join.
10: ch1, sc in each stitch around, join.

Making this hat in newborn size.
Worsted Weight Yarn (I used 4 Seasons Marvel 12ply which is very similar in thickness to RHSS)
5.5mm hook
Completed size laid flat 16.5cm tall x 16cm across

1: ch3, dc in the 1st chain 9 times, join.
2: ch2, 2dc in each stitch around, join.
3: ch2, *2dc in the first stitch, dc in the next stitch* repeat around, join.
4: ch2, *2dc in the first stitch, dc in the next 2 stitchs* repeat around, join.
5-6: ch2, *dc in the first 2 stitches, fpdc in the next stitch* repeat around, join.
Change to contrasting colour
7: ch2, *dc in the first 2 stitches, fpdc around the fpdc from the previous row* repeat around, join.
Change to main colour
8: ch2, *dc in the first 2 stitches, fpdc around the fpdc from the previous row* repeat around, join.
Change to contrasting colour
9: ch2, *dc in the first 2 stitches, fpdc around the fpdc from the previous row* repeat around, join.
Change to main colour
10: ch2, *dc in the first 2 stitches, fpdc around the fpdc from the previous row* repeat around, join.
11: ch2, hdc in each stitch around, back loops only, join.
12: ch1, sc in each stitch around, join.

Lemon Tartlet - Playfood

Good morning beautiful people. Hope we are all having a fine one. Today's playfood pattern is for a very cute lemon tartlet, complete with cream and a lemon slice. Of course you could easily change the colours and make an orange or lime tartlet using the exact same pattern. Hope you enjoy this fat free pattern :) YUM! 

You will need

3mm hook
Stitch marker
Small amounts of yellow, brown and cream yarn in your chosen weight.
I use DK/8ply yarn for all my playfood. If you use worsted weight yarn your tartlet will be larger.

With yellow yarn
1: ch2, sc into the 1st chain 6 times, place marker - (6)
2: 2sc in each stitch around - (12)
3: *2sc in the first stitch, sc in the next stitch*, repeat around - (18)
3: *2sc in the first stitch, sc in the next 2 stitches*, repeat around - (24)
4: *2sc in the first stitch, sc in the next 3 stitches*, repeat around - (30)
5: sl st in the next stitch and then end yellow.
Join Brown Yarn
6: *2sc in the first stitch, sc in the next 4 stitches*, repeat around, join - (36)
7: sc in each stitch around, back loops only, place marker - (36)
8: *sc2tg, sc in the next 4 stitches*, repeat around - (30)
9: sc in each stitch around - (30)
10: *sc2tg, sc in the next 3 stitches, back loops only*, repeat around - (24)
11: *sc2tg, sc in the next 2 stitches*, repeat around - (18)
Stuff tart.
12: *sc2tg, sc in the next stitch*, repeat around - (12)
13: sc2tg around - (6)
End off leaving a long tail. Use the tail to weave in and out of remaining stitches of the opening, and pull tight to gather it closed.
With the lemon side facing you, join brown yarn to one of the un-worked loops from round 7.
14: sc in the same stitch you joined in, *skip 1, 5dc in the next stitch, skip 1, sc in the next stitch*, repeat around, join to the first sc. End off and weave in all tails.

Whipped Cream
With white yarn
1: ch10, dc 3 times in the second chain from hook and each chain across. Leave a long tail. Let the cream twist on itself and sew to the top of the tart.

Lemon Slice
With light yellow yarn
1: ch3, dc in the 1st chain 7 times, end light yellow leaving long tail for sewing.
Join dark yellow yarn
2: 2sc in each stitch, end colour.

Attach slice to the tart.      

Bryli Hat - Free Crochet Pattern

Good morning lovely people. I am so glad to finally be back with some more preemie patterns.

This hat will fit from 22-24 weeks depending on tension and is very fast to whip up. One takes me about 30 minutes from start to finish. It looks great in all colours and would be incredibly easy to upsize. (In fact, Im working on Newborn sized instructions for one right now!) I hope you enjoy this little pattern. I love hearing from you all. Remember, you are more then welcome to share any pics of items made from my patterns on my Facebook Page

EDIT** Newborn instructions below.

Bryli Hat
Prem Size
3.5mm hook
DK/light worsted/8ply yarn yarn in main and contrasting colours.

1: Ch3, dc in the first chain 10 times, join (to the top of the ch3, here and throughout)
2: ch3, 2dc in each stitch around, join.
3: ch3, *2dc in the first stitch, dc in the next stitch*, repeat around, join.
4: ch3 (counts as first dc), dc into the same spot 2 more times, ch1, *skip 2 stitches, dc 3 times into the 3rd stitch, ch1*, repeat around, join.
5: sl st into the middle dc from the previous cluster, ch3 (counts as first dc), dc into the same spot 2 more times, ch1, *skip to the middle stitch in the next cluster and dc 3 times in it, ch1* repeat around, join.
6-8: Repeat round 5
9: Change to contrasting colour, and ch2. hdc in each stitch and ch1 space around, join.

Bryli Hat
Newborn Size
5.5mm hook
Worsted weight yarn in main and contrasting colours. (I used RHSS)

1: Ch3, dc in the first chain 10 times, join (to the top of the ch3, here and throughout)
2: ch3, 2dc in each stitch around, join.
3: ch3, *2dc in the first stitch, dc in the next stitch*, repeat around, join.
4: ch3 (counts as first dc), dc into the same spot 2 more times, ch1, *skip 2 stitches, dc 3 times into the 3rd stitch, ch1*, repeat around, join.
5: sl st into the middle dc from the previous cluster, ch3 (counts as first dc), dc into the same spot 2 more times, ch1, *skip to the middle stitch in the next cluster and dc 3 times in it, ch1* repeat around, join.
6-9: Repeat round 5
10: Change to contrasting colour, and ch2. hdc in each stitch and ch1 space around, join.

Playfood - Picnic Basket

Good morning beautiful peeps!

Today's pattern is for a picnic basket! I figure with all these new foods, we need a way to store them right? And what is cuter then a little child sized picnic basket!

This basket is pretty straight forward to make, and only uses a handful of materials.

You will need:
4mm hook
Yarn in main and contrasting colours (I used tan and brown in DK weight, Worsted will work just fine)
2 matching buttons
Sewing needle
4 pipe cleaners
Piece of stiff board or plastic to line the base (I used the plastic from an icecream container)

With main colour
1: ch30, hdc in the 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across
2: ch2, turn, hdc in each stitch across
3-18: Repeat row 2.

Do not end.
Now we'll make the sides.

19: ch1, sc evenly down the side of the rectangle, 2sc in the corner, sc in each stitch on the next side, 2sc in the corner, sc evenly down the next side, 2sc in the corner, sc in each stitch along the last side, 2sc in corner, join to the ch1.
20-21: ch3, dc in each stitch around, join.
Change to contrasting colour.
22-23: ch3, dc in each stitch around, join.
Change to main colour.
24: ch1, sc in each stitch around, join.
Change to contrasting colour.
25-26: ch3, dc in each stitch around, join.
Change to main colour.
27-28: ch2, hdc in each stitch around, join.
29: slst loosely in each stitch around. End off yarn and weave in all tails.

Shaping the corners.
To give the basket a more defined shape and add some stability, we are going to sew the corners. This is a little bit time consuming, but it makes a huge difference to the basket.
You simply need to pinch the corners as shown below, and using matching yarn and a sewing needle, whipstitch from top to bottom, you want your stitches about a finger width deep. Repeat on all 4 corners.
If you want even more stability, you can pinch a pipe cleaner in there and then stitch, but I chose not to do so. (Lack of pipe cleaners, oops!)

Handles:
With contrasting colour.
1: Ch75, sc in the 2nd ch from hook and each across.
2-4: ch1, turn, sc across.
5: ch1, turn. Fold handle in half width wise and sc the sides together (going through the last and first rows) to create a tube. End off leaving a long tail.
This part can be a little tricky. You want to join 2 pipe cleaners together, and slide them into the tube. It is easier of you bend 1cm of the end of the pipe cleaner over before inserting it. Go slow so you don't poke it out the sides. Join the last 2 pipe cleaners and insert them from the opposite side.

Sew the handle onto the basket (the entire section that is touching the basket, not just at the bottom.)
Attach a large button to each side of the basket, positioning it over the top of the handle, and in between the 2 contrasting stripes on the basket.

Cut a piece of plastic or card to fit in the base of the basket and you are done! Fill full of play food and enjoy your yarn picnic!

Itty Bitty Giant Hat Drive Info and FAQ

Good morning beautiful people!

Yesterday on my Facebook page I posted about the 2nd annual Itty Bitty Hat Drive. It has since gained a lot of momentum and there have been a lot of shares and questions. I thought it would be a good idea to sit down and write up a post here so people looking can find some solid info and such if they seek it, and to help answer some of the questions that have come in.

The first Itty Bitty Hat Drive started in September of last year. For those who have been following for a while, you will remember my post about the loss of my baby early last September. I wanted to do something meaningful in bubs memory, something that wouldn't be sad, that would be helpful to others feeling like I felt and something to keep me busy. The Itty Bitty Hat Drive was born. I picked Chance's Clothes Project (CCP here on) as the recipient, because I had sent items to them previously, respect the way they run and was blessed to receive my very own pack from them. CCP is run entirely by volunteers who donate their time, their skill, their items and their love. It is run by the most amazing Nikki, who is one of the kindest, down to earth people I have had the privileged of knowing.

The very first hat drive eventually became the CCP crafters group on Facebook, and we still run monthly optional challenges, share patterns and ideas and talk about all things relating to making items for the smallest of the small. (link in the FAQ) This group is run by myself and Lisa from Crochet Quacker

CCP currently provide bereavement packs to 13 hospitals and 1 funeral home across Australia, and that list and the requests for them just keeps growing and growing. With volunteer help the incoming requests can be filled quicker, and people will have access to these very special little packs.

Each pack contains (size appropriate) a blanket, a wrap, clothing (or a bunting/cocoon for the very small), booties, a diaper, a set of matching keepsakes and up to 3 hats/bonnets. Why so many? Babies so small grow rapidly. There is an almost 3cm head circumference difference between 16 and 18 weeks gestation alone. As all babies vary greatly in size, it is most important to have a hat in the pack that will fit. The spares parents get to hold onto and keep close. You can see photos of these packs in their Facebook Photo Albums

As you can imagine, this makes the need for hats of all sizes a large demand. Hats are also one of the easiest things to make, using the least amount of materials and are super customisable. For these reasons, I decided to focus my event around hats and bonnets, in the hopes that CCP would receive a large stockpile to keep them going.

So now you know something about the background and the charity, it's time to share the event and answer some questions.

Truth be told, I was not expecting as many people to jump on board that have so far, and probably should have included more info in the original image above. I guess that happens sometimes, and so I apologise that it wasn't all covered initially and I hope these FAQ's help clear things up for you.

FAQ!

Where can I find out more about Chance's Clothes Project?

You can find their Facebook page HERE and their website HERE

I encourage you to like their Facebook page so you can keep up to date on any events and info, get to see the amazing feedback and view all their great photos. CCP share images of every donation they receive, so you know it made it there and you get to see it put into packs. It also gives you a way to get in contact with someone if you have questions or want updates.

If you would like to become a regular member and donate items you can find our craft group HERE It is a closed group and chatter is about the work we're doing for CCP. We run monthly challenges (optional) to help get the items that are needed to finish off packs done, share photos and ideas and talk patterns. Offer advice, sort out sizing and help each other as best we can.

What size hats do they need to be?
Hats can be any size from those for under 8 weeks gestation (these would fit on your fingertip) through to the size for a full term newborn baby. I have a size chart available HERE if you need a hand, but honestly any size is fine, babies come in all shapes and sizes. If you are worried about length, making a hat longer is the best way to go, the edge can always be folded up.

Do I have to crochet the hats?
Not at all! You can choose to crochet, knit or sew your hats. Some people loom them, some people use a knitting machine and others felt. You can use whichever crafting style you are most comfortable with.

Do I have to use your patterns?
Again, not at all! You are free to use whichever pattern you like to create your hats! I have a preemie related pinterest board HERE to get you started with free patterns and ideas. The colours and styles are entirely your choice,

Why do we post on the 15th Oct?
October 15th is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day (in most countries, including the US, UK and Aus). What better day to send these precious gifts and honour the memory of beautiful babies gone far too soon.

Can I send my donations to other charities?
The Itty Bitty Hat Drive was created specifically with CCP in mind. I understand there are a lot of other groups about the globe and some people would prefer to support locally. If you would like to organise your own event, I am happy to give you advice on how to do that. I am even happy to assist in creating graphics should you need them (like the image above), but I do appreciate that you don't hijack my event or copy it's name.

Do I have to send a certain number of hats?
Nope! In fact, even just one hat is perfectly fine. One or two hats may even be a cheaper alternative for international crafters as it can be sent flat in a regular envelope with a stamp, instead of a package.

I want to join in but I don't live in Australia, can I?
Absolutely you can. In fact we have some regular international contributors! But having said that I feel it is only fair to warn you that postage to Australia can be expensive. My advice would be to weigh a few hats and decide on how many you would like to make prior to starting, and going to the post office to see how much that weight parcel will cost if sent via sea mail. Sea mail is slower then air mail (sometimes up to 2 weeks slower in fact) but it is considerably cheaper.

Are there any goals?
There are no set goals because we are absolutely thrilled with any number of hats coming in. However, if you wish to make a personal goal, you are more then welcome to do so. If you want to share your goal, or share images of the items you have made to donate you are more then welcome to leave links to the images and state goals below. I am also happy to have you share any images on my Facebook page MammaThatMakes After all, we just love seeing how creative everyone is getting!
Myself personally, I am aiming for 50 hats. I'll be sharing my progress on Facebook as well.

Can I share this with my local craft group?
Yes indeed! If you want to print out the image and address you are more then welcome to share the event with your local crafting groups! The more the merrier.

Where do I post my hats to?
You can post your hats to the below address. If you would like to include a small piece of paper letting us know they are from the hat drive that would be fantastic!
Chance's Clothes Project
c/- Cowra Neighbourhood Centre
15 Vaux St
Cowra NSW 2794

I don't have a crafty bone in my body, but I want to help. Are there other ways?
Of course! First, simple word of mouth about the charity or the event would be amazing. You can share this post on social media networks and with friends and family. Some people choose to purchase preemie sized beanies from stores and post them in. Others send donations of yarn or fabric so CCP can pass it on to local crafters to make items with. The choice is entirely yours.

I think that answers most of the questions we've had so far. If you have any more at all, feel free to drop me a line on here, via email or via Facebook. I'll do my absolute best to help you out wherever possible. Thankyou for taking the time to read this lengthy post, and as always, have a gentle day <3

Mini Chocolate Cake - Playfood

Hello hello everyone!

Today's free pattern is super yummy! A mini chocolate cake with cream and a cherry on top! Super sweet to make, and oh so cute! You could use all sorts of flavours (colours) with this pattern! Mix it up!

You will need:
3mm hook
chocolate, white and red yarns. I used dk weight, but worsted would also work, it will be slightly larger.
Stitch marker
Sewing needle
Small amount of stuffing.

With the chocolate yarn
1: ch2, sc 8 times in the 1st ch, place marker - (8)
2: 2sc in each stitch around - (16)
3: *2sc in the first stitch, sc in the next stitch*, repeat around - (24)
4: *2sc in the first stitch, sc in the next 2 stitches* repeat around - (32)
5: sc in the back loop of each stitch around - (32)
6-11: sc in each stitch around
12: *sc2tg, sc in the next 2 stitches* in back loops only repeat around - (24)
13: *sc2tg, sc in the next stitch* repeat around - (16)
Stuff cake now.
14: sc2tg around - (8)
15: sc2tg twice, then end off leaving a tail for sewing.
Using the tail, gather the stitches around the opening and pull tight to close.

With cream yarn
1: ch12, dc 3 times in the second chain from hook, dc 3 times in each remaining chain. End off leaving a long tail. Sew cream to top of cake.

With red yarn
1: ch2, sc 5 times in the first ch
2-3: sc in each stitch around - (5)
End off and leave a long tail. Gather the stitches around the opening and pull tight to close, then sew on top of the cream.

Make sure all ends are weaved in and you are done :)