A Very Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

I'm so looking to celebrating my Lord's birthday! This year is a year of heartfelt gifts as not much money is available. I really think gifts from the heart are best given anytime.

I just saw how cold it is in the midwest. I thought of my dear friend. Then I was thinking of all those inner city kids that truly need a christmas present. One of love and one that will keep them warm. I wish I could give them all what they need. I was thinking one day if I were rich I could reach out and help them. I realized also that my heart is good and wants to give..Maybe a lesson for one who has wealth is to reach out..to have a giving heart. So I will do my best to help those I can..I will try to reach that far..concentrating right now on a homeless couple and those around me. I wish all people would do that. Just think of the love and assistance to those in need that could happen! If you can send to International Children's Network a hat and scarf for Inner City kids ages 5 through 18 yrs.

The attic has been quiet lately. Most of us are scrambling to finish projects, mail out donations, and also get ready for Christmas. My heart is really happy. Sometimes in the past I have been very sad. Not sure why. I am saddened when I hear the media say its wrong now to say, Merry Christmas! They couldn't be farther from the truth. So to all in the stores when I'm greeted with Happy Holidays! I say Merry Christmas! I try to as often as I can to remember to say that to all I meet. Our great country was founded on God. Why not happily say Merry Christmas?! A celebration of His son's birth.

I have a warm home and place to lay my head. I have food and clothing. I have those around me who love me and I them. What greater gift could I receive this Christmas, but His everylasting love. I wish for you all this Christmas, just that!

Since I most likely will not post before the new year, Merry Christmas to you all and a very Blessed and Happy New Year!

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
yarnangel52@gmail.com

Christmas Approaching!

Hello Everyone!
As we approach the yearly celebration of Our Lord's birthday, I find my thoughts going out to all those who have so little. Of those who have nothing to keep them warm. A simple need in winter and yet it becomes a ritual to find warmth to survive winter.

A dear friend was telling me about how she took a tag from the "Angel Tree". I realized I wanted to do that too. But once I was standing in front of the tree in my nearest Walmart I found my thoughts going out to choosing which one? I knew that I had very little to spend on my own family let alone a child who really wanted something to brighten his/her christmas. God in His wisdom never made me rich with money or I certainly would have chosen every tag. Did I choose?..no, not right away. Why? I realized that I will be making a choice soon, but that I have family that need an angel in their lives right this minute. I'm hoping to first help them..then help a child on that tree. In Crafter's in the Attic we give all year. Isn't that really what its all about? A giving heart to those in need that He brings along our life paths to help? This thought makes me think.. how giving is my heart? I remember as a child my father saying that I wore my feelings on my shoulders and I needed to take them off before I got hurt. I have gotten hurt a lot in this life..but I would certainly wish to live with my feelings right out there then not see or realize someone needed me.

As this year's celebration begins I wish you all a wonderful season of giving. For surely Our Lord gave the most precious gift to us. Now lets emulate that Love.

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee

The Middle of November!

Its now November.Wow! already!
Time sure has been flying. I've been busy with trying to move and settle down for awhile.I've moved things into storage and out. I'm still not done. However, life just keeps on going on around me. The kids are into activities that they are interested in. There are birthdays this month and now Thanksgiving is next week! I think of the days that nothing happens and time seems to slow down to a crawl. This has not been the case for me for the last few months.

My group, Crafter's in the Attic is doing well. We still have only a handful of ladies. They are some very sweet dedicated women whom I love dearly. Our group is currently making things for 100 orphans in Peru who sometimes have as little as a thin sheet to keep warm in temperatures of below 10. Slippers are sometimes worn as shoes as they have nothing else. My heart is sad for these children. So we are trying to help them as best we can hoping that God sends us more hands to do the work.

Lately, I've worked on some loomed hats. They work up really well if you use two strands of 4 ply yarn. I would imagine by the way they are turning out that they will be nice and warm. I'm also going to work on a blanket. A friend recently said she was using an I hook and working hdc which would make a nice warm blanket to keep someone warm. I have decided to give this a try. I want to send some fleece blankets as well. I have worked on sweaters but I'm not sure on larger sizes..Yet these children really need our help so I will give this a try. My knitting is still in the baby stages so it will have to be crocheted.

I just added some holiday recipes to our group. We were thinking that a nice page to leave up anytime our members wanted to find a different dish or dessert..or just spice up a midweek meal. I love our Nexo site. Its given us the freedom to create pages for our use and make the group a fun place to come. We still have our regular pattern pages and files/links..Having an arcade to come to is a nice break as well. I'm looking forward to finishing up my donations soon. I have a lot of holiday projects screaming at me..but now at this time of year most crafters do so I guess I'm in really good company.

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee Libby
yarnangel52@gmail.com

October News

Finally,
I'm back to blog again. Sometimes my life has me going in several different directions. I'm sure that many of you also experience this. I get frustrated as I really just wish to craft.

I had a wonderful opportunity in September to visit an old online friend. I had an awesome time as she lives on a farm. I saw a wonderful part of our country at the same time. Mother nature changed the leaves. What a radiant picture of color it was! I got quite a bit of crocheting done then. I also knitted my first sock! wow, I almost couldn't believe it. Now that I know I can do that I will be working on the second sock..giggle..well, once things settle down a bit.

I have been moving around trying to find a place of my own since I came home. I will finally be living with my daughter and her family.

Crafters in the Attic has been in a state of change. We will be listing our places for donation and instead of making a place only have what we called an event for one or two months, we will be listing the places and our members can work as they are able and just send to the places we list. I think it will work out better.

I found a nice pattern book from Bernat at Walmart for only 97 cents. It has some crocheted and knitted blankets in it. One of them I'm trying right now is rather lacy. I'm making it in a Bernat soft lavendar. Its going to be really pretty.

I also belong to a group that sent out a new pattern for a man's cap and scarf set. Its great as its just the pattern I've been looking for since July. You see one of my many sons loves this sort of sporty cap. I saw him wearing one in July at my youngest daughter's wedding. So I thought it would be a great gift for Christmas if I could make one in charcoal gray. I'm sure he would love it.Then I would need to figure out what to make or get for his wife. I made her a lovely shawl last Christmas so I'm really not sure what I could create for her. I hope to make some nice things for charity as well as my family.

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
yarnangel52@gmail.com

Busy days Crocheting articles of love

Hello!
Wow here we are in September already! Its been a long year. So much has happened and so much will till the end of the year..Summer is nearly gone and Autumn is just about here. I am going to a dear friends home for two weeks. I hope to be able to blog too. I love this picture..wishing she lives in an area that is like this. She is up in what I term the frozen tundra. Up in Michigan on the peninsula..It will be on a farm and near a different type of woods..

I have been busy crocheting lapghans for seniors, ghans for babies, hat/scarfs for inner city kids, and learning a new pattern. Actually its the one in my last post. It is a bit confusing but it creates a very nice sweater.

When you have the time check out Annie's Attic. Today she has a ghan called Wedgewood. I don't particularly like the colors used but I think I would love to do this pattern and just use my color choices.

One of my members in Crafter's in the Attic gave us a url for a site that has patterns galore! You know I don't think that I will ever have enough patterns let alone yarn! lol I also came across something that made me laugh.. its called, "The Proper Care and Feeding of The Crochet Based Economy" This is a small excerpt from it..

"Are these mere syndromes or are they obsessions? Either way, they are the foundation of the crochet-based economy. Without crocheters, this entire economy would fail. Despite what the stock exchange may lead you to believe, much of the Western World is dependent on crocheters for its continued existence. How does this work? Well…..

I shop at thrift stores a lot, so if I run across a bag of hooks, I buy them. Even if I already own every size in the bag. If I find a stack of crochet magazines, I buy them. If I already own them, for about 25 cents each, I can share with my crochet friends. And yarn - well, any and all yarn found at the thrift store or on a good sale anywhere will find a good home with me. Not that all my goodies come from the thrift store..."

http://crochet.craftgossip.com/the-proper-care-and-feeding-of-the-crochet-based-economy/2007/07/09/

The above url will lead you to this article. I'm in no way taking credit for this. I admire the author whomever she might be.. I think it was written well and I'm suggesting each reader go read the entire article..I love the tongue in cheek way this was written. I found it funny because so much of this is true. Happy reading!

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://craftersintheattic.nexo.com/

Weekend stuff!

Ahhh, there is something about weekends that just seems to make me happy. I think its the lack of appointments. No one expects a person to make an appointment on a weekend. Then usually we have no working on a weekend and only then on an occasional saturday. For me, I usually try to do things that would get interrupted on a weekday. That said, I planned to sew this weekend. Funny thing is I've done everything but that.lol

I did manage a few rows on one mixed color lapghan. I also did a few rows on a white climbing shells baby ghan. I started another hat for my challenge. I hope to finish it and at least start a scarf to go with it tonight. Feeling a bit guilty on the sewing. I guess I prefer to crochet as I can sit anywhere and do that. A little while ago I sat on our deck and started the hat.

Next month, begins a new event. This event will be for newborns in need. I'm looking forward to a change up in venue. Although next year's donations will be worked differently. Then I can juggle what I want to do according to yarn and desire. The next project will be "Mary Jo's Shell Stitch Sweater with Hat". You can find that pattern at this url, http://bundlesoflove.org/
This is really a darling little sweater and hat. I'm posting a pic above for you all to see. Its an older sweater pattern. I love the ribbing and the look of the sleeves.

Until we meet Again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://craftersintheattic.nexo.com/

Great Crochet Finds.."Scrumbling"

I found some interesting things online today. First, I have an old friend that from time to time sends me all sorts of information. She also belongs to a fiber group in the U.K. Then also will I have to say to her..ummm...what does this mean? translate please?..

To my delight she sent me something else today. I opened to the url sent to me and found that there is a small guild in New South Wales that had workshops. Attached to that url was workshops. They have U. S. translation and then what they called "the rest of the world". Oh, and since they give the translation from U.S. to "rest of the world", I now have a resource for information. I opened the first one which shows choosing a yarn and hook!... What a find! The guild says we can use them for our own purposes or teaching needs. I'm going to download and add these to my Cd collection for use in helping others learn to Crochet. I'm also passing on this tidbit to you:
http://www.crochet.nu/scjwc/workshops/index.html Use it well.

Our new word for today?

'Scrumbling' ( from: (late)sylvia cosh/james walters crochet)

"'Scrumbling' (that is, making things up as you go along) has always been our word for free-form crochet. There is a whole range of different techniques and philosophies behind the idea – probably as many as there are people doing it. Ours have usually been about finding what suited us and took us in new directions. It is all about peeling off the layers of household grime which have accumulated around the infinitely popular, but limited, 'painting by numbers' tradition of domestic crochet and discovering underneath a brilliantly simple and expressive technique. Starting with a hook and a continuous thread of some kind, each of us can make fabrics and structures in two and three dimensions, allowing our eyes, hands and heart all to work together to create intuitively and immediately

What we have always tried to teach are down-to-earth, practical approaches to help people to develop their own creative personalities, rather than always to be measuring themselves against someone else's set-piece crochet 'recipes'. It is still my plan to use this space to help de-mystify the things that often confuse or intimidate people about crochet, so they can really begin to fly …" This lady left a wonderful legacy behind her. She shared her craft with the Crochet Guild of America among many others. What a wonderful thing to leave behind for our loved ones to benefit in.~ Leslee

There is a delightful new free pattern today from Annie's Attic. Its a purple pineapple plant hanger. I was really surprised. Its one of those little things you find along the way that you want to save and add for a gift project. Many times those little finds are great gifts. This one has a practical use for your household too.

Until we meet Again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://craftersintheattic.nexo.com/

I Believe its called Procrastination!

I wish you all well on this very hot friday afternoon! Very hot here as its 97 degrees. When the temperature gets above 90 its just really uncomfortable. My daughter said its going to cool down and we are getting rain..yeah, right! ok, so maybe it will who knows?

Now on to crocheting. Have you ever had a lot of projects going at one time and then have others that need to be started. Add to that a site posts a wonderful ghan, and then I'm groaning. I want to start a new project but the others are dragging their feet..wait! that's me dragging..lol
The pattern I'm speaking of is in Annie's Attic today. Its their free pattern. Its called "Midnight Jewel Afghan". Its black and the color comes from a yarn called gemstone..So pretty!

So, ok, I started making a list of things to do today. I added phone calls, emails that needed to be written, laundry that needed to be done, dishes washed, banana bread made, a list of things I need to have ready or done for my flight, and I want to get some reading done. No where on that list was crocheting!..wait..let me check!..nope!.. I think I see a problem..I'm not scheduling it in. I'm moving slowly today so I guess its the heat wearing me out..So far on my list I've done all but the list which I did start but not finish and the banana bread..I even made muffins..those weren't on the list. Nor was this blog...ahhhhhhh!

Ok, maybe I just need to make a list for my crafting and mark it off as I go?..hmm..well, I will certainly give it a try..who knows?it just might work!

Until we meet Again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://craftersintheattic.nexo.com/

Managing Crochet During Hot Summer Months!

Good Evening!
My its been pretty hot here where I live. Its 93 right now and tomorrow will be 97. Its hard to want to pick up some of my warmer crochet projects. I have a lapghan that needs finishing. I have one hat/scarf set to make to reach my goal for this month's challenge. I have sewing to do..that's more heat. I was left with what can I keep my hands busy with? The solution was this. During the daytime hours when everything was too hot to handle I would work on my crochet threads. They are much lighter and it will get those doilies I've wanted to make done. Then during the cooler evening hours I will work on those warmer things .

I was really excited yesterday. I found through a member of my Crafter's in the Attic group a url to a pattern I really fell in love with. Its a baby blanket done in baby or sport yarns. Matching hats that are just too cute.. then after looking over the blanket pattern I found a link to some booties. I'm a curious one so I clicked on it and found something called Baby Ugs..oh I just fell out..they are darling. I have a newborn gs just born last week..he is a little guy but could use some growing up.. and I have another gs overdue at the moment. He must be a shy one..lol. I know he will be at least a nine pounder as his little petite mom seems to have big ones like that and the last one born before this little guy was nine pounds four ounces.. I have decided to make a list of yarns I need and I'm taking patterns and yarn with me when I go on vacation. These little guys have to have some Ugs..and we have another little girl due in November..she gets some girlie ones.. oh, I nearly forgot. Check out Bev's Country Cottage for Baby's Hat by Gayle Benoit..she has a link to her Ugs pattern at the bottom of this page that also includes a blanket she made to go with the hat..

I'm also considering looking into some yarns by Coats and Clark. They made some cotton yarn that looks rather tweedy..definitely a nice choice for a hat and scarf..a boy might like it.. They have made some great new yarns lately. Also check out Lionbrand..they have some great new knitting and crocheting patterns that are free. They offer ideas on the yarns to use. Sometimes I change up a different yarn just to see if it will produce something unexpected. Not a mess but a new creation I haven't thought of. To me it like playing with colors and textures..when I was a kid I loved to color..I still do.. but I noticed that I used to play with crayon colors the same way I do yarns..so the sky's the limit next time I hit the store!

Until we meet again!
Hook's up!
Leslee
http://craftersintheattic.nexo.com/

Crocheting to help

With one new grandson born a week ago today..we are still waiting for the other one. Since this baby watch is dragging itself out I decided to pop back in here and write. For those who read my blog from time to time..I'm sorry I've been away. For those just reading thanks for visiting my place here.

I've steadily been working on lapghans for a senior home. In between I've been working on crocheted baby sweaters, hats for the babies and hats for inner city kids. My group, Crafter's in the Attic, along with Les Bois Arts and International Children's Network, have been working to make hats and scarf get to inner city kids this winter ages 5 through 18 yrs. These are the kids that usually get skipped over and who need things to keep them warm. Now we are also working with ICN to help 100 orphans in Peru. With the earthquakes that have happened in that country recently I'm not sure how our involvement will change. Of this I am sure, they will need our help more now then ever!

I've developed a pattern that is easy for a scarf. I'm using a pattern that I modified to fit a child and for a teen which is basically at that part of life is a small adult. Some are children larger so I was thinking if we just made them in sets as I have challenged my ladies to do, then we would be able to have a broader chance to meet the needs of most.

Leslee's scarf pattern: ch 126 (chains depend on size, keep in mind you want an even number of chains to begin with) Row 1: sc in the second ch and across to the end..ch 3, turn. Row 2: dc in each st across to the end, ch 3, turn. Row 3: *skip one st, dc in next. Go back and dc in skipped st.* Then repeat * to *across to end. dc in last st. Ch 3, turn. Row 4 & 5: repeat row 2. ch 3, turn. Row 6: repeat row 3. ch 3, turn. Row 7: repeat row 2. ch 1, turn. Row 8: sc in each st across, finish off.

Annie's Attic, has the sweetest little project that is free for kids today. It's an earring set that are musical notes or a violin. The wire part is the ear ring part..the rest is crocheted..Its fun!
http://www.anniesattic.com . I have a teen age grand daughter that would probably love these. Too bad my flute playing grandson is a boy!..lol

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://craftersintheattic.nexo.com/

Crafting while on Baby Watch

As I stand on "baby watch" here ..or should I say sit..lol. I'm busy crocheting three climbing shells lapghans for some seniors..Actually one will be for one of my grandson's who has yet to make his appearance.

I also made one hat and embellished with fun fur I found at the dollar store. It looks like a hat a teen girl might like. I'm currently working on a scarf to go with it. That will take care of half my challenge for this month. I still need another hat/scarf to make my goal.

I was hoping to finish the two sweaters that seem to allude me. I think maybe concentration on that goal in need of work..giggle..At least finish them before this monday as both mommy's to be will be induced..Have to have them done. But its not like its cold here or anything. Its been in the 80's. Although up here in the mountains at night it does get a bit nippy.

I'm planning my christmas presents too..oh yeah! I said the word. Its a word most crafters and mom's don't like to hear or think on..but with all these new additions to my family..I have to get busy..I'm thinking some nice footies I just saw from Annies' Attic ..and some fleece blankets for the kids..that's a lot of kids but if I get them made and then add a little something to make the gifts personal they will be welcome..

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://craftersintheattic.nexo.com/

Busy Crafting

Hello!
Oh my! Two days in a row for my blogging! Might become a habit. I love to write. I don't always have time. I love more to crochet which explains why I get more of that done.

Right now I'm sort of on crunch time. I have baby blankets to get ready for my new grandsons who have yet to make their appearance! I also have a lap ghan and two sweaters to finish..Then someone in our group drew our attention to some free patterns that are great. One is Cowboy Booties and the other newborn gowns. After saving the patterns I was trying to decide which to do first..Ok, better light in the morning for sewing and threading that darn needle in my machine..so that can wait..I guess tonight will get my attention in my crocheting.

I also have a challenge I'm working on. The challenge is to make hats/scarf sets for inner city children ages 5 thru 18. I think I mentioned this before. Its the CRS and my meds playing with my memory. Not to mention a bazillion other things I am trying to keep on the back burners..
I haven't started these yet. I set a goal for two sets a month till the end of the year. Hmm..I'm thinking I need to get started..lol

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://craftersintheattic.nexo.com/

I'm back!

Its amazing how time just seems to fly when you are busy!
That's the case here with me. I've been working hard to crochet some baby things for my daughters who are pregnant. Both of them due in August and two days a part. The funny thing here is they are almost like to horses in a race..just when you think one is ahead the other's nose shows she is taking the lead. Let me explain. One of them went to the hospital for pain. Was told she is dilating but not yet ready to stay. Then the other goes to the doctor and she is told she is
experiencing some labor but will need to wait a bit.. This has gone on for three going on four weeks. So, like a good mom/nana, I'm working on receiving blankets, spit up cloths, sweaters, what ever they need really. Both are expecting little boys. So color choice is now easier. Both have very little for their babies so that makes choice easier too.

I'm crocheting lapghans too. I have one red climbing shells ghan done. I have one baby blue and one tan/lighter tan striped one on the hook.. I love this pattern as it works up easy.

Crafter's in the Attic, is now supporting a challenge from now throughout the year. We are setting goals to make hat/scarf sets for inner city children in poverty ages 5 through 18 in this country. We are working in collaboration with International Children's Network to help these children. We also have an event in Nov/Dec of this year to work with them to help keep warm 100 orphans in Peru. They will need blankets, sweaters, hats/scarfs, anything to keep them warm in temps -10. I guess you could say the "Attic" is a busy place. We have going on right now an event to help senior in a place called "Summer Wind". Those seniors are being taught to crochet or knit from one of our members to help children in the U.S. Meanwhile we hear in the "Attic" are making things for them. The ladies there that are crocheting are not aware that we are making things for them...So, it should be a nice surprise!

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://craftersintheattic.nexo.com

An Enchanting Wedding

Hello Everyone!
I must apologize for the sudden departure! I have been busy with the wedding of my youngest daughter Laurie. It was an awesome wedding and a fun reception set in a meadow of a nice ranch in the woods. With garden faires, Dragons among the folliage and the dancing little fairy flower girl it was both magical and enchanting.

I had the pleasure of spending time with an online friend I've known for at least four years. It was the first face to face meeting and the hug was absolutely awesome! We took a day to crochet and dip in the pool..spend time with some of my family in the park on a picnic..help my oldest daughter and have dinner with her. Crocheting was happening even at the reception..giggle..can we say hooked?

Crocheter's Attic has been moved to a new site. It has a new name as well. Its called, "Crafters in the Attic" giving credit to all of our crafters.
Here is the url, http://craftersintheattic.nexo.com/

We have a wonderful place now. It allows us individually to develop our own webpages, to have an arcade in which to play games. Two different message systems are at our disposal as well as places for patterns, and links. Every day we learn new things with this system. It is not like yahoo where we can't do anything..or we don't get posts..Freedom is definitely a commodity here and we love it!

I'm personally working on two sweaters for my gs's who are to be born next month. I'm working on receiving blankets for them too. I have a blanket started but I'm thinking of changing the pattern. Currently in the group we are on a Senior event, called, Summer Wind. It will be a lot of fun to make things for them. They are connected with Ameritas and are interested in having teens work with seniors. This project should really help a connection between young and old. Also we have our orphans in the latter part of the year. It will help us be able to get things out to all the children in that program. And through all this we will be reaching out to the poor in this country and globally. Am I excited! You bet I am! When I first started this group I wanted to be able to make a difference in the lives of those who have such grave needs. I don't have finances to give but I can crochet and sew. Those talents combined with those of our members should make a ripple in life's waters. Sometimes in life we lose control and say things we don't mean. Its like a ripple in that water. Why not make something with love and toss it out in the water's of life. Make a ripple and effect everyone!

I must end this tonight. I have something to finish up before bed.

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://craftersintheattic.nexo.com/

Saturday thoughts

Hello Sunshines!

Wow! what a great day it is today!..Its been very hot here in Magalia. I guess it could be worse. I don't take heat well. After some of my family leave today I will be back sewing. I need to run to the store and get some elastic for the waist of the pants I've made. Then hem them up and I'm done with them. The top isn't difficult but the material stinks! Its hard to make do what I want it to do. Rather slippery. I really want to get it done and over with so I don't have to think on it.

I have a few projects waiting for me to come back to. One is that little sweater for one of my expected grands, and another is a blanket that I need to work on. e-Patterns Central is a place I just bought a pattern from. Actually I purchased a few. Giggle. You know they are so cheap. So here I got two patterns and at the top was a question to add another for .99 cents..Of course, I went ahead and said yes. I love that site as you get your patterns right away and there is no shipping and handling costs. I got an afghan called Catty Corners. Its beautiful! I also got a new pattern for a little girl's sweater.The cheap pattern was for Jiffy Shells. Jiffy Shells is an afghan for beginner's. I was thinking it would be a nice one for our teen crafting group.

Today Teen Crafters in the Attic was created. This is a teen group that will craft things for their peers and others in need. We will be teaching them to craft and make things for pleasure as well.
Crafters in the Attic is the adult group. They are all working on a senior event. Its called Summer Wind. I really like making things for babies but its nice to make things for seniors as well.

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
craftersintheattic@nexo.com

New Things to Enjoy!

Today we got a new lady in Crafters in the Attic. She is affiliated with a group in East Oakland that helps teen mom's. Its good to have her here.I hope we each can get something good with our union.

I almost have my pants finished for the wedding. They are in pink crepe. The top is started. Its a pink flimsy see through with satin flowers on one side. Its pretty material. I'm trying to roll this small piece of it to be a loop and it rolls and comes undone. Haven't figured out how to get around it. Too much noise today from the kids. The swamp cooler causes the door to swell so my sewing room door will not close. Ever feel like running away?..right now I do. The pressure to finish as the wedding is in seven days!

I will not have the time for other projects till this wedding is done and over. I will have the pleasure of visiting with two friends from my group who are able to attend. It should be fun to sit and crochet and talk. Possibly pick up some new skills. I have a darling knitted baby footie pattern,(e-PatternsCentral.com) I want to make for my two new grandsons who will be born next month or sooner, depending on the mom's. I also got a sweater pattern I want to make and see if I can enlarge for larger children.

I wish you all a peaceful evening,

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
craftersintheattic@nexo.com

Hello Everyone!

Surprise!

I'm back! I apologize to all who read this. I have had two major things happen in my family along with the wedding of my youngest daughter Laurie. She will marry July 14th. So we have a bridesmaids luncheon on sunday and last minute details.

First, a small recap of the two major things. My oldest daughter Holly/husband Bear are expecting, her heart is an issue that is being watched closely. They lost their home and moved in with one of my son's/wife/daughter. Next Bear was informed that his son from another relationship was in Pennsylvania. Apparently the mom kidnapped him from California. He is a special needs child. She had an appointment with CPS and blew it off. Took him and all she could and fled. She is in jail on federal charges. CPS has checked the home where Holly/Bear are staying and are telling Pennsylvania to send the little boy home. Which means Bear will have to take off work to fly out to get him.

The second crisis, ahh..where do I begin? short version, My son Casey's wife needs mental health counseling and she was abusing him and the kids. A close family friend who just brought her own kids out of crisis in Arkansas by moving them and their things back here to California gave him courage to get out of that home. Sad thing, mom is really a sweet lady who is ill. Good thing is they are out of the home. The friend is helping him care for the kids while he goes through the task of ending their marriage and getting counseling for him and the kids. Tough work, I know first hand as I brought my own family out of a crisis years ago. I now have silver hair as a result.

All this and a wedding..oh and three babies coming..two in August, one in November. The two in August are boys. The one in November is a girl.

Crafting?..lol..not a lot I assure you. I was a safe house and shelter for Casey and children. I did manage to sew my pants for the wedding. They are nearly done. Then I'm making a light flimsy type top that goes over a comfy tank top. I decided to be comfortable. It will be hot that day.

I have two dear friends who will be there that day. I'm so looking forward to their arrival. And to visit with them.

News!

Crocheter's Attic has moved to Nexo.com. It has a new name, Crafter's in the Attic. We moved due to yahoo's service. I felt the ladies in the group deserved a better site and service. We also needed to change our name to reflect everyone there. So far so good. The ladies have found that they have their own webpages to play with and decorate and blog. One of my sons, David, is now our IT guy. He is the technician that helped us design our site. Kudos and many thanks to him!

We also added an Arcade feature for the members to enjoy. Still working to design our database and get a message system that better fits our needs..

Our current events are Knit for Kids and Summer Wind. Knit for Kids is very strict in that you have to use their patterns. They do have crochet and knit but some of the ladies seem to have difficulty and decided they can't do it. So, we have Summer Wind. It is a facility for seniors. This is something we have done before and shouldn't have difficulty with. We will be helping ICN with orphans and poor children in the U.S. and in Peru this year. Our teen group still needs to be modified a bit but we will get there.

I wish you all a cool evening, its been 103 today.Like ouch!

Until we meet again!

Hook's Up!

Leslee

Fun things to do

Ahh..the days are definitely getting warmer. We are due for some very hot weather. This week we will be in the 90's and we should hit triple digits too. I think I will be using the swamp cooler and fans quite a bit. So anything on the big side in my crocheting will wait for a cooler day..

I was given some Vintage patterns the other day. Some of those are tablecloths, motifs, table runners, toys and dolls, baby, squares, afghans and bedspreads, etc. Some have years attached. Like one motif is dated 1911. These are so cool.. a baby blanket is done in thread..Its gorgeous!

Not sure for my left shoulder if working with threads is a good idea...
I'm seriously considering making some of these. Right now the doctors have ordered an Xray, tendonitis or bursitis.. I'm thinking working with thread might aggitate my shoulder more so then yarn..not really sure. It might regardless, I will slow down a bit..but, not stop completely.

So then a friend sent me Baby Heirloom Dress patterns..They are for a newborn to nine months.
One of my dil's who's expecting just found out she is having a boy! There are two more expecting. One is trying to find time for an ultrasound to find out and the other is still too early. I will put these wonderful patterns away for possible use in the future.

Btw, the classes if I take them will most likely be to an online University so that my back won't give out trying to transport books and materials. I will also try finding scholarships and grants that most students never try for that just sit. Not sure how to find them yet. Usually online universitys want the student to use a loan. Not for this lady! I'm on SSI and no way do I want to worry over paying back a loan. So this might take me awhile to find money for school.

In Crocheter's Attic this week:
We will have a new square pattern released to the group. Its called a star stitch. It should be a lot of fun to make..I'm looking forward to this one. I think if it were incorporated into a little sweater or dress it would look so sweet.. Then thinking a blanket made with this stitch would be fun.
Many of us are already getting ready for summer fun. Children and grandchildren are now out of school so many have scheduled some summer fun.
Others of us are completing one event and getting ready for the next one. We will be learning to make both knitted and crocheted Guidepost sweaters. This event should be great fun. These sweaters look warm.. Possible gifts for family too.

Personally, I'm working on a sweater I designed for a new grandbaby. I'm also starting a new pattern making a stuffed toy. I need to get my teen gd started on a sweater so that she has some skills to share and use. I stalled on the Waldo puzzle square. It takes a whole lot of time for me. So I'm thinking that my daughter and her new husband might get it for a Christmas present instead..lol

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crochetersattic/

Crocheter's Attic Summer Arrives!

Sigh.. nearly done with all those graduations! I'm so proud of each one. I guess I'm a sap, I hear that commencement march and tears well up in my eyes..Poor Laurie nearly passed out walking to her place to sit and then when she was called on stage her teacher said a few things about her..she said she got dizzy..I told her its cause she didn't breathe..we gotta work on that as we can't have the bride passing out during vows!

Crocheter's Attic, its been a bit quiet lately. And its not unusual as this is the time when change happens. It happens in the lives of each crafter. Whether its vacation time, graduations, birthdays etc. This is usually the time we find a few tumbleweeds moving by. However, I found some great patterns today. My prayers for things for toddlers was answered I came across three different sweaters, a new pattern for knitted and crocheted hats, a new newborn blanket, and a sweater for an old child. Oh! I nearly forgot..A pattern for crazy socks!..my gd Gabriella loves her crazy socks!..meaning she loves it if she can find socks with stripes, argyle kind of print, crazy color mixes..anything goes with that kid..well, the great thing here is not only are they a crazy stripe..they stripe on their own using Red Hearts Strata Yarn.. She's seen the color variations before..not realizing that I might use them for something for her.. Come to think of it..there are days I would wear something like that too.. I have my silly days..lol

So, we have decided to add more squares to our list and to have more classrooms..Looks like a few different kinds of them. Maybe for a newbie needing to learn to crochet or knit. It will be fun as I will definitely need the knit class.. I really would love to knit..Its not that I don't have the tools or I think the talent..I don't have someone to help me through it.. I wouldn't mind taking the place of a newbie learning to knit..lol there are some very talented ladies in the group. I know that they could help us along.

No plans this summer for a vacation. lol.. not that I ever really get one. Someday though, I would love to go on a vacation..just to know what one is..being a mom of ten doesn't end when they grow up and get married..Its an odd position to be in. So, where would I go?..hmmm.. I'm not a tropical sort of person.. but believe it or not..there are two places I would love to go..one could be tropical as its in South America. That would be Peru..love the culture and the history. The other place would be New Zealand. The country there is awesome.. I would love to go into some sort of ministry. Haven't a clue how to begin with something like that..so for now I will work on those things before me. The first is to really work hard on the Waldo Puzzles squares for the wedding ghan. I also want to add more things to my donation box for Teddy's event. Then I will need to learn how to make a guidepost crocheted sweater. I guess this summer will be one of learning for me.. and that's not a bad thing..I love doing that. Once the wedding is done in July I will concentrate my efforts to things to learn..

My secret passion would be to take psychology classes.. I love to work with people. I've had so much experience in my life. I think it would be a good thing for me. I have my A.A. in Liberal Arts so I would enter Chico State as a junior..lol..its so weird when going to a college and other students are so young..You don't find a lot of friends there my age..ah well..

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crochetersattic/

Monday blues

How I wish I could attach music here to this blog..I'm listening to some right now. It has a wonderful way of uplifting the soul...thereby lifting the creative part of us.

I must say at this point since I started writing a blog here due to the gentle prodding of a friend, that for the most part I've enjoyed this. I have gotten a bit frustrated at not being able to type when my body that is slowly failing me. My son has a program for his computer that all he needs to do is speak and its typed for him..I would love to get that program..but shoot, I can't even afford $5.00 for a Cd of patterns that I just found out about.

There is a storm moving in, its supposed to rain tomorrow morning but I suspect that it will dump the rain a bit sooner. I'm hoping for rain today..I love to listen to it fall against the windows.

I'm still working on my crochet projects. I think I will go rest awhile and work on my crocheting. I expect things will come to a grinding halt as Laurie's wedding draws closer..She graduates tomorrow from high school..

Until we meet again!
Hook's up!
Leslee

Sunday morning!

Its Sunday! quiet and peaceful.. it seems that everything bows its head before the Lord...except stubborn mankind. Some do..some don't.. As I bow my head before my Lord, I pray for this world, for this country, for all of us who are working..trying to reach out and share His Love with those around us and those we know who need His loving touch in their lives. Thank you Lord, for this talent that you have given me to be able to reach out with Your Love even with a body that is broken and diseased to help others showing me that even for me You have a purpose and plan.. in Jesus name, Amen!

I'm currently working on a blanket for my daughter and her fiance, Chris. I have a lot to do as I'm making Waldo Puzzle squares, here's the url for that kind of square, the author is Chris Simon, I love her work on her squares... but as you can see, I have a lot of work to do to finish this ghan up. The good thing is they are 12" squares. http://www.geocities.com/cdjsimon/waldos_puzzle.html ,
trimming them in white and attaching them. It needs to be queen size..unless I have a crochet blast into hyper speed I can't see me finishing it in time before the wedding.. I guess we will see on that note.. on another note, I am just starting that picot blanket. It should be very sweet. I have some mint green..thinking that will look very nice. Since I fell in love with my new sweater pattern I'm thinking of making more of those too.

In July, Crocheter's Attic will be making guidepost sweaters for Knit for Kids. I'm kinda excited about these. I've never made one before. They look so warm and cozy. We have the Caring house that we donate to around the new year. Its an abuse shelter..many of the kids who go with their mom's aren't always babies..so I'm thinking sweaters from size 2 to 10 are really going to be needed. Its good to help children around that age and size to keep warm.. In November, the orphans in Peru will be our target donation place. It gets -10 there and they have very little to keep warm in.. I'm hoping for a place in Louisiana to get donations to. I'm sure they could use warm things as well once winter hits..

Well, its Sunday and a time for rest..which I intend to do..
Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crochetersattic/

Crocheter's Attic and my new sweater

Hello Everyone!

The summer hasn't yet begun and already I feel like someone rang the bell and the race is on!..lol..
I managed to finish up my new sweater I created.. I'm waiting for my son and dil who took pics for me to send them so I can put them up for you all to see.. The sweater is just darling. I'm sure the baby who wears it will be warm and toasty. To the left is the picture of the sweater I created..It was fun to do and I know will keep some little one warm and toasty.

Crocheter's Attic is going through a time when we aren't focusing on any particular pattern. We have been asking questions about some areas where we get stuck.. Someone asked about a "rabbit hole stitch"..we are all like ..what?..no clue.. That's ok, most of us are curious.It was suggested that it might be the stitch that you crochet around a plastic loop..made sense to me and I have a feeling that would be it. I'm in the process of making a hat to go with my new sweater.. hoping to buy a onsie to go with it.. I realized today that we are now in the vacation mode and when we are in hotter weather. Which means crocheting and knitting slow down and relaxing happens..I remember last summer was a scorcher..it was triple digits for three weeks..I couldn't crochet..it was just too hot..instead I read about 15 books..it wasn't as hot to do that..I got to know our local library quite well..

I'm in the process of crocheting a baby blanket using a Picot Stitch. Its a very simple stitch and should make an interesting blanket. I also want to make something in a soft yellow. I don't usually make things in yellow as it makes a baby who is a bit jaundiced look more so wearing yellow.. when the yarn is calling out make something with me you just have to get busy and use it making something new..I just might use my new pattern and making another sweater..of course a hat will follow..I love making sweater sets but just sort of feel a blanket has to go with it..

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crochetersattic/

Memorial Day

Today will be a day of rest. I am currently working on a sweater I started a couple of days ago. I was following a pattern.. The yoke turned out well..It has a nice feel and look to it. But the body was just terrible..the look just didn't go with the yoke. So I ripped it out and I'm adding my own body and sleeves to the sweater. When I finish it will be my own creation. Its been awhile since I created my own pattern. It gives a feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction.

I'm looking forward to learning how to make the crocheted guidepost sweater. It will be good to work on something for Knit for Kids. I have never had the pleasure of creating sweaters for them to give to those who need. Perhaps these sweaters can be used for other places too.

In Crocheter's Attic I released another square pattern. Its called the Snapdragon Stitch. No one has mentioned it..I'm guessing they are busy with other projects and the Memorial Day weekend.

I want to wish you all a peaceful day. Prayers go out especially for those who left our country to fight in Iraq. Also for those who have passed that we miss in our daily lives.

Until we meet Again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crochetersattic/

Crocheter's Attic Progresses

Welcome Back!

Crocheter's Attic is moving forward. We now have on board with us, International Children's Network. Our ladies will be making blankets, sweaters, hats for 100 orphan's in Peru in November. At some point of time..which is not yet appointed..more likely we haven't been told yet. That Cindy and I will be traveling to Peru to teach the children how to crochet and knit. Yes!..I'm very excited. I'm hoping my medical condition will allow that travel.

The picture is of a little orphan in Peru. His name is Juan.

Currently we are working on an event for newborns. We are making hats, sweaters, booties, blankets, little outfits etc. for poor mom's in the San Diego area. We are also learning to make Guidepost sweaters. We posted a crocheted pattern for us to be able to play around with the pattern. I'm hoping we can downsize it to fit babies as well as an older child.

I introduced the Snapdragon stitch today. Its a square using this stitch. I don't know how many are still working on making squares..that project took a bit of time. Still the end result will not only give enough squares to join to make a ghan but will actually show how much the crocheter has learned..

Until we Meet Again!
Hook's up!
Leslee
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crochetersattic/

Looking Forward to a Creative Weekend!

Hello!
Sorry this is so late in getting written. I went out to run errands and got back much later then I expected to. So, now I'm sitting here listening to "Allegro"...really nice for writing.

Crocheter's Attic ladies seem really busy lately. I just love looking at their work. Some are working on ripple blankets, some booties, socks, and hats.. One lady even found an adult bib. Great for eating lobsters or for that senior in your home that needs tender loving care. I have a lady who just finished making a little five point star ghan. here is the url for it..

http://www.angelfire.com/va3/heartfeltangels/littlestarafghan.html

today Annie's Attic has a beautiful afghan called Nosegays..Its so nice. I would love to do something like that but alas, I usually have very little time and I don't crochet quickly. It looks like fun to do.. I saved it to work on later..who knows? I might be able to find time for it.

We have new members coming into the group which makes it nice as usually we have crafters who have ideas and talents to share with all.
This blog is short. I apologize. I'm in a lot of pain lately. the steriod shots the doctor gave me didn't work. so I'm trying to keep up with things and rest too..

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee

My Wish For You

My Wish For You
Author: Unknown

Comfort on difficult days,

Smiles when sadness intrudes,

Rainbows to follow the clouds,

Laughter to kiss your lips,

Sunsets to warm your heart,

Gentle hugs when spirits sag,

Friendships to brighten your being,

Beauty for your eyes to see,

Confidence for when you doubt,

Faith so that you can believe,

Courage to know yourself,

Patience to accept the truth,

And love to complete your life.

A close friend sent this to me. She is like a sister. I feel her sadness and pain. I feel her joy. We share our lives, our feelings and our craft. I also have another friend. She is newer and still close to me. I feel so blessed to have them in my life. We three are together in this life to help each other along this pathway. I usually write about Crocheter's Attic. I love my group of ladies. They are so near and dear to me. I have been witness to some amazing talent, strength and beauty. They are all flowers in life. "Stopping to smell the roses", takes on a whole new meaning when compared to this group of ladies. Thank God he created them and thanking Him further that He brought us together.

Tomorrow, I will post my normal blog.

Until we meet again!

Hook's Up!

Leslee

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crochetersattic/

Projects in the works

Another day, and I accomplished finishing up that blue sweater with buttons..so its ready! Now I'm still working on the round ripple blanket.. its getting bigger and I know I will need to look for more yarn that color or a contrasting one to finish it up.

In Crocheter's Attic today we have a new crochet square called, "Parallel Post Stitch." Its really an interesting stitch. It should make a great blanket too. I guess for a baby blanket you could say it has feelies.. My grands love a fleece blanket with blanket binding. It gives the same sort of feelies. My gd Kayla has a store bought blanket. It has a soft fleece side and a soft satin on the other side. This is the blanket she goes places with and the one that goes to bed at night with her. Again the different kinds of materials used to make the blanket create feelies.

So far to date, I have created two sweater sets and a round ripple for our next event in the group. I will finish the other round ripple and try to make a couple of teddy bears to go with them. At that point I will send my donation out. One of my ladies submitted an adult bib pattern she found. It was a wonderful pattern to add to my collection. I wished that I had it when I did my senior event. I'm sure they could have used a few of them there.

I'm thinking of using a Snapdragon stitch for our next square. It looks a bit like a climbing shell stitch and yet it is different. I'm thinking that these different squares might give a nice look to a blanket should all of the squares be used. It can be for personal use or to give to someone who needs something warm to cuddle up with..

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crochetersattic/

Waking up to a Beautiful Spring Day!

hello!

I woke bright and early this morning at 6:30 a.m. Already I had things flying through my brain about what I wanted to accomplish today. Well, first things first..morning meds, breakfast , etc.
Then as I sat at my desk I was thinking about how beautiful it was this morning. The birds were singing. There is something about how morning smells out in nature. Since my desk and computer are right next to the open window I was able to enjoy it. This morning it was still brisk as the sun hadn't had the chance to warm up the air.

I knew that I had an appointment this morning, so I went into my group to read the morning posts. I saw that I'm not the only one who sleeps in...lol. I shared with them that I finished my baby blue sweater set. I also started another round ripple blanket. I kept seeing this beautiful bright blue/green yarn as I pulled out yarn out of my bag when finishing the little blue sweater.
I knew it would alone make a fantastic blanket for a little one. Then add that the ripple blanket makes a pattern of its own..wonderful tactile for a baby!..I couldn't pass it up.. so, its waiting for me to call it quits on the computer for awhile.

This week in Crocheter's Attic I will post another square for our ladies to work on. Most of them are busy with little projects of their own. I love to give them freedom to work on what moves them. After all, when we are creatively moved to create something regardless of the medium in which is available at hand, we create with passion. Personally, I love crayons, oil crayons and believe it or not..clay!..I painted once with it..fantastic medium to use.

I'm hoping to start some new things to share soon. I just needed to get that little blanket out of my system..you know, moved by the spirit..lol ..so for now I will stop and go get busy!

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee

Reflection as Mother's Day Approaches

Its a bright sunshiney day here in California!.. Makes a person feel like getting out doors and do a little gardening. For me, I can't physically do that. I can make a garden with my crochet. One day, I was thinking about colors, palettes of colors and designs to be used to create something truly beautiful. We are fortunate that yarn companies right now are creating some beautiful mediums to create that something beautiful in the hand of the crafter.

Now, personally I love to make things for my family and friends. I really like surprising them. I was thinking of the look in the face of those who receive the things we make in Crocheter's Attic.
Its such a warm loving group of women. This past wednesday I had the pleasure of delivering donations for an event I held for the Healthy Mother's Program at Feather River Hospital in Paradise, California. The items we donate are given to young mothers who have very little if anything to take care of their new babies with. I had the co ordinator, the receptionist, the NA, the nutrionists, the wic workers tell me how much they liked and appreciated what we donated.
It always feels really good to take in the deliveries like this.

I have been suffering with what seems tendonitis. It leaves me hurting, frustrated as it also hurts to type. I find I can do some crocheting though..not sure why..although sometimes I can't seem to crochet. I have no idea how this happened.. in saying all this.. my blogging has slowed down to a crawl.. I love to write..even hand writing is a bit painful. It sure was miserable trying to address 119 invitations to mail out for my daughters wedding..

We have had in Crocheter's Attic some interesting patterns go through the group. Lets see, popcorn booties/hat, another round ripple, a cute little sweater pattern, and what is called the World's Easiest Sweater pattern. We did find an author for the last one.. She also had some other patterns listed.. I did not post a new square pattern. I decided to let the ladies catch up a bit.
And we all seemed to be interested in the new things that came our way.

I want to wish everyone a very Happy Mother's Day! Whether two legged, fourlegged or feathery or scaly..you still have taken on a responsibility for another's welfare. May you be blessed for your time, love, tenderness, compassion, kindness and understanding of what another life is experiencing. May you be blessed for not turning your head when another life needed you..

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crochetersattic/

Springtime

I love May!

Its the month that Spring really kicks in. There are festivals and parades. Coming this next saturday is "Paradise Chocolate Fest".. What's great is that not only is it chocolate but Mother's Day is the very next day. So it promises to be a fun weekend for everyone!

In Crocheter's Attic this week we are looking at a new sweater pattern that was developed from other patterns. Someone put together this sweater pattern and dubbed it the "World's Easiest Sweater" pattern. I'm curious about this not copy writed pattern. Here is the url if you are curious.. http://www.angelfire.com/va/thevelvetpumpkin/sweater.html
We are also working on various different projects. I'm working on an Aunt Jen's sweater. Its really very easy to do. I'm also working on doilies..a lost art really..most people don't make them as they say they are either too hard or not easy to see.

Just recently I picked up a "Keepsake Crochet" by Coats and Clark. They had four doily patterns and all of them, even though they are slotted for intermediate, are easy to do.
Well, I'm off to get into one of those patterns above..

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crochetersattic/

Crocheter's Attic, here comes the weekend!

Ahh, Its Friday!

I sometimes love the end of the week..It usually means a rest from what I have been doing during the week. I'm planning on a restful weekend. A time to just reflect and get ready for the new week.

My gd Gabbie is getting baptized this sunday morning! She has grown so quickly. I am hoping to add her to Crocheter's Attic Teens very soon. She is excited about learning and about possibly some of her friends involved online with this new little group.

Today also marks the end of the Baby Sweater I have been posting. I will post in a few minutes the Finishing. I'm personally working on a different sweater pattern.. It seems easy at this point of time. Its called Aunt Jen's sweater? I'm doing it in a varigated Bernat blues. Having finished my ripple ghan I'm planning on making a little teddy bear to go with it..so this should be kinda fun for the mom who receives it for her baby.

Now for the Finishing to the Baby Sweater...

Baby Sweater Finishing

Body Edgings

Rnd 1: With right side facing and smaller size hook, join yarn with sc in hdc at center of Back neck edge (see Joining with Sc at bottom of this post); sc evenly around entire Sweater working an even number of sc; join with slip st to first sc.

Rnd 2: Ch 4, skip next sc, *slip st in next sc, ch 4, skip next sc; repeat from * around; join with slip st to first slip st.

Rnd 3: Ch 6, (slip st in next slip st, ch 6) around; join with slip st to first slip st, finish off.

Weave a one yard length of ribbon through Rnd 2 ch 4 sps along neck edge only.

Sleeve Edging

Rnd 1: With right side facing, smaller size hook, and working in free loops of beginning ch, join yarn with sc in any ch; sc decrease, (sc in next ch, sc decrease) around; join with slip st to first sc: 36 sc.

Rnd 2: (Eyelet rnd), Ch 5 (counts as first dc plus ch 2), skip next 2 sc, *dc in next sc, ch 2, skip next 2 sc; repeat from * around; join with slip st to first dc; 12 ch 2 sps.

Rnd 3: Ch 1, sc in same st, 2 sc in next ch 2 sp, (sc in next dc, 2 sc in next ch 2 sp) around; join with slip st to first sc, finish off.

Weave an 18" length of ribbon through Eyelet rnd; pull ends to gather Sleeve and tie ends in a bow. Repeat for second sleeve.

Joining with Sc

When instructed to join with sc, begin with a slip knot on hook. Insert hook in stitch or space indicated, YO and pull up a loop, YO and draw through both loops on hook.

The sweater is now finished. I hope that you all have enjoyed it as much as I did. Its very delicate and very sweet to do.

Crocheter's Attic has now moved into our new event. Culture of family Life Services. Its still a newborn event to help poor mothers. My round ripple blanket is for this new event. I'm excited to be making new patterns..I love my old ones but its fun and challenging to start new ones..

Until we meet again!

Hook's Up!

Leslee

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crochetersattic/

Sunrise brings new things

Good Morning!

With the night having slipped away to a beautiful sunrise I am looking at the projects before me. (I wrote this earlier today and didn't finish it. I'm

hoping to and post this.

Crocheter's Attic will get a square pattern today. They will be working on Velvet and Lace Square Designed by Priscilla HewittWebsite: Priscilla's Crochet . They have been making some squares for a future blanket. All 7" squares. This square will be nice as its different. It will add an interesting look to their square blanket. Some of the squares they have enlarged to be a baby blanket. It will be fun when we put them together..

I am personally working on a project for a friend and my daughter. I want to begin a cute little layette too. And I want to find another project for my donations. My round ripple blanket is finished and then I want to add something different to it. Its fun when something unexpected is add to the donation.

I promised the sleeve part of the sweater pattern today..so, here goes..

Baby Sweater cont.

Sleeve

With larger size hook, ch 55 loosely.

Row 1: Sc in second ch from hook and in each ch across: 54 sc.

Row 2: (Right side) Ch 3, turn; work Cross sts across to last sc, dc in last sc; 13 Cross sts.

Note: Mark last row as right side.

Row 3: Ch 3, turn; work Cross Sts across to last dc, dc in last dc.

Rows 4 and 5: Ch 1, turn; sc in each st across: 54 sc.

Rows 6-20: Repeat Rows 2-5, 3 times; then repeat rows 2-4 once more.

Change to smaller size hook.

Row 21: Ch 1, turn; sc in first 3 sc, sc decrease, (sc in next 5 sc, sc decrease) across. 46sc.

Row 22: Turn; slip st in first 3 sc, ch 2, hdc in next sc and in each sc across to last 2sc, leave remaining sc unworked: 42hdc.

Row 23: (Decrease row) Ch 1, turn; hdc in next hdc and in each hdc across to last 2 hdc, hdc across to last 2 hdc, hdc decrease: 40 hdc.

Row 24: Ch 2, turn; hdc in next hdc and in each hdc across.

Rows 25-35: Repeat Rows 23 and 24 twice; then repeat row 23, 7 times more: 22hdc.

Row 36: Ch 1, turn; hdc in next 9 hdc, hdc decrease, hdc in next 8 hdc, hdc decrease: 19 hdc.

Row 37: Ch 1, turn;( hdc in next 7 hdc, hdc decrease) twice: 16 hdc.

Row 38: Ch 1, turn ; hdc in next 6 hdc, hdc decrease, hdc in next 5 hdc, hdc decrease: 13 hdc.

Row 39: Ch 1, turn; (hdc in next 4 hdc, hdc decrease) twice; finish off : 10 hdc.

Sew underarm seam, beginning at bottom of row 1 and ending at top of row 21.

Centering seam at underarm, sew sleeve in place, easing to fit along raglan edges.

Repeat for second sleeve.

Tomorrow I will post the Finishing which is the body edging and the sleeve edging. I'm looking forward this evening to watch my 5 yr old gs play baseball..Yes, my crochet bag will go with me. I'm hoping the rain doesn't spoil it.

Until we meet again!

Hook's up!

Leslee

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crochetersattic/

Crocheter's Attic projects

Good Evening!

I hope this visit to my blog helps along a peaceful evening. I have enjoyed working on my round ripple blanket tonight. I have a little more of the border and its finished!..I just love to get things done. I think maybe the next project will be either a doily or something for a friend. Not sure what to make for her. She has been so special in my life.

The ladies in Crocheter's Attic have been busy working on multiple things. Some are trying their hands at a regular ripple ghan. What's sweet and loving is that they are trying to help each other learn. A special hug for one who has been spending much time working with another member. These are precious memories in the making. We have some ladies working on a sweater pattern I gave out last week. I did forget to post a new square as I have been suffering tendonitis. I is aggravated by typing..and yes, I'm doing it again...

I was going to finish off the sweater I have posted here for all of you tonight and then realized that besides the left side I still have sleeves to post..so lets see how long this arm lasts ...

Baby Sweater cont.

Left Front

Row 1: With right side facing and smaller size hook, skip first 4sc from Back and join yarn with slip st in next sc; ch 2, hdc in next sc and in each sc across: 28 hdc.

Row 2: (Decrease row): Ch 2, turn; hdc in next hdc and in each hdc across to last 2 hdc, hdc decrease. 27 hdc

Row 3: Ch 2, turn; hdc in next hdc and in each hdc across.

Row 4-8: Repeat Rows 2 and 3 twice, then Repeat Row 2 once more: 24 hdc.

Row 9: (Decrease row): Ch 1, turn; hdc in next hdc and in each hdc across: 23 hdc.

Row 10: (Decrease row): Ch 2, turn; hdc in next hdc and in each hdc across to last 2 hdc, hdc decrease: 22 hdc.

Row 11-16: Repeat Rows 9 and 10, 3 times: 16 hdc.

Rows 17 and 18: Ch 1, turn; hdc in next hdc and in each hdc across to last 2 hdc, hdc decrease: 12 hdc. Finish Off.

All right, I think I need to give my arm and shoulder a rest tonight.. will be back in the morning to share the sleeve with you and then the only thing left is to do the body edging and sleeve edging. This is a very weird pattern but the sweater is adorable. Will also be back with the latest square to be done..

Until we meet again!

Hook's Up!

Leslee

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crochetersattic/

Crocheting blankets

Hello Everyone!

Just getting back to blogging again. We have some new members in Crocheter's Attic. I'm excited as that means more hands to help those in need.

For those who want to continue with the baby sweater pattern I was posting, here is the next part.

Baby Sweater cont.
Back

Row 1: With right side facing and smaller size hook, skip first 4 sc from Right Front and join yarn with slip st in next sc; ch2, hdc in next 55 sc, leave remaining 32 sc unworked: 56 hdc.

Row 2: (Decrease row): Ch 1, turn; hdc in next hdc and in each hdc across to last 2 hdc, hdc decrease: 54 hdc.

Row 3: Ch 2, turn; hdc in next hdc and in each hdc across.

Row 4-15: Repeat Rows 2 and 3 twice; then repeat Row 2, 8 times more: 34 hdc.

Row 16: Ch 1, turn; hdc in next 15 hdc, hdc decrease, hdc in each hdc across to last 2 hdc, hdc decrease: 31 hdc.

Row 17: Ch 1, turn; hdc in next 13 hdc, hdc decrease, hdc in each hdc across to last 2 hdc, hdc decrease; finish off: 25 hdc.

Row 18: Ch 1, turn; hdc in next 12 hdc, hdc decrease, hdc in each hdc across to last 2 hdc, hdc decrease; finish off: 25 hdc.

Tomorrow I will post the left front.. I hope some of you are enjoying this pattern..It is really nice just very different.. I have been working on a round ripple blanket..the pic above is borrowed but is similar to what I'm making..its really pretty. Its in Red Hearts Kitten print. I chose a lavendar to border it..
Well, I am going to scoot for now..

Until we meet again!
Hook's Up!
Leslee
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crochetersattic/