Drawing Money Purchased Patricia Kristoffersen Book

Posted on May 21, 2018December 19, 2018 by Kitty

Not too long ago, I was lucky enough to be the winner of a drawing for $100! Since it was luck and all, I set out to do the wise thing and splurge, lol. I had been eyeing many Patricia Kristoffersen books on doilies for a while and decided to buy one. It was a difficult decision, but I chose, Doilies with a Twist. There are six wonderful patterns in the book. I crocheted, Ruby, which is on the cover. My fanciful dream is to eventually collect all of her books. They are fairly expensive and difficult to find, sadly. However, there are individual patterns for sale on Ravelry.

Patricia Kristoffersen Books

Patricia Kristoffersen

As you can see from the first picture, I stocked up on Lizbeth yarn. This was the first time I used the yarn for doilies. Before, I mainly used it for Irish crochet and jewelry. After using it there, I realized how durable and lustrous it is. It can be unraveled over and over again without pilling or separating. I’m not trying to sell it, I just really think it’s a great product. In my opinion, it is better to pay a little more for good yarn than to pay less for something that will fall apart in your lifetime. Especially since there is so much effort, time, and love involved in making each creation.

Patricia Kristoffersen Doilies

Patricia Kristoffersen

From left to right, I crocheted Windsor Round, Peacock Pride, and Ruby. The first two are from my other Kristoffersen book, Absolutely Gorgeous Doilies. For Peacock Pride, I tried incorporating Lizbeth’s new Metallic yarn into size ten thread. At first, it was a little tedious getting the hang of the texture difference. After one round, I was able to easily work it. I LOVE Metallic Lizbeth yarn. I can’t wait to start making some jewelry with it! Even though the company says that Metallic is comparable to size 20 thread, it worked really well with the size ten I used. The colors I used for each from left to right are Golden Yellow Lt, Ocean Turquoise Lt with Gold Dust, and Purple Iris Lt.

Kristoffersen Doilies

Patricia Kristoffersen Doilies

In the near future, I want to thread more Metallic yarn through the Peacock Pride doily. I think more Gold Dust and some Iridescent would be pretty. There will be lots of experimenting!

My First Crocheted Afghans

Posted on May 7, 2018 by Kitty

All my life I was surrounded by handmade afghans, but I never tried crocheting them myself. During the cold months last year, I decided to attempt my first. Instead of going with a traditional square or rectangle pattern, I went with a circular one I found on moogly. Not only did I think it was nice to have a round afghan, but I also loved the pattern.

First of Two Afghans Second of Two Afghans

After crocheting for as long as I have, I thought I knew most things pertaining to the subject. Turns out that I had much more to learn! Gauge is extremely important when it comes to making afghans. Every person is different in how they crochet, so it’s critical to find your gauge for the pattern. I needed a much bigger needle than suggested. Unfortunately, K is the largest size I have, so I had to crochet super loosely to make it work. The pink afghan was my very first attempt, and it is a puny example because of my tight crocheting. For the second attempt, I tried much harder. It was comical for me to crochet at the tautness needed for the pattern. After three tries for the gauge, I was able to finally continue. Somehow, I still ended up with a couple extra skeins of yarn! Oh well, that yarn will definitely not go to waste.

Crocheting Afghans

First of Afghans Afghans

The Circle of Love Afghan pattern is a lot of fun to crochet. It was a little strange at first, but I got the hang of its parabolic nature eventually. Choosing the colors for the pattern is one of the best parts. Knowing how to change colors is a must for this pattern, as well as knowing the front post double crochet. It is the FPDC that gives the pattern its neat shape and body.

Little Crocheted Angels Brighten Christmas

Posted on November 28, 2017 by Kitty

With Christmas just around the corner, I decided to crochet a few angels. My grandma used to crochet them for the family. I loved them as a child and got to pick out ones that were special to me. I still enjoy them, and they make really nice ornaments. She let me have her crochet pattern book that I will keep forever. It’s called Angels by Becky Stevens, and it was published by Leisure Arts.

Crocheted Angels

Before Grandma gave me her book, I found a few free patterns online. I finished one large and two small angels from some of those I found. After crocheting, I felt they needed more color. So, I laced ribbon through the wings and dresses. There are several more designs I would like to try:
Peace on Earth in Oombawka Design by Rhondda
Angel in Flight Ornament by Priscilla Hewitt
Angel Bells by Sue Childress
Victorian Vintage Ornament by Tammy
Tree-Topper from Patons
Treetop
Cute Poofy Skirt from Crochet ‘N’ More
Little One from Crochet ‘N’ More
Mini Treetop by Julie A Bolduc
Little Bobbles by Julie A Bolduc
Lora’s Angel by Lora Johnson
All of these patterns would make great ornaments for the tree or any space that needs brightening.

This year, I crocheted using different colored thread instead of just white. The metallic, silvery thread is very pretty but difficult to use. So I only made a small angel with it. Some of them could use some hair, but they are cute enough without it. Even though each pattern is unique, it is still possible to customize each angel more by adding ribbon and halos.

Victorian Pattern Crochet Angels

Thread angels can be starched or left as is. For a more sparkly effect, add glitter during the stiffening process. I usually prefer not to stiffen them though because it makes cleaning easier.

Crocheted Angels

Crochet Coaster of the Turtle Variety

Posted on September 11, 2017 by Kitty

This crochet turtle coaster I found at Amigurumi Today is easy to make and useful for saving furniture surfaces. It requires knowledge of the magic circle and some basic sewing skills. Unfortunately, I didn’t have any brown yarn, so I went with two shades of green. Also, I didn’t have any safety eyes, but I was able to substitute yarn to act like embroidery. Most patterns suggest leaving a long end when finishing a part in order to sew it to the whole. I have experimented, and it has never successfully worked for me. Instead, I prefer to leave a short end and use either yarn or thread to sew together the parts. Thread is usually better than yarn, especially if the colors match well, because it fastens tightly.

Turtle Coaster Yarn

After crocheting all eight pieces, it’s best and convenient to sew all of them but the shell onto the belly. By doing it that way, all stitches and ugly threads will be hidden underneath it. Before sewing the head to the body, I semi-embroidered the eyes and mouth. This method helps me center everything better. When I first saw this pattern, I wondered if it would be all right to use acrylic yarn because of the heat issue. Then I realized that it’s not a potholder, so any heat coming off of cups shouldn’t melt the material. The turtle coaster ended up being much larger than I thought it would be, so it could be a cute little potholder. If making it into a potholder, I would use cotton yarn to avoid melting or flames.

Turtle Coaster

I think the coaster turned out really cute! There are so many other cute and free patterns available at Amigurumi Today. The site is definitely a must for any crocheter. Everything is categorized nicely and described in great detail. So, whether you’re just beginning or are a pro, it’s a great site.

Turtle Coaster

Original Tangle Pattern by Dainty Kitty

Posted on August 25, 2017 by Kitty

The other day, I was just doodling and discovered a cute tangle pattern. There isn’t another one like it, to my knowledge. If there is, it would be a coincidence. The pattern consists mostly of lines, with dots alternating on a grid. It reminds me of electricity and atoms.

Tangle Pattern: Fluffer

Fluffer Tangle

The name Fluffer came about because I think it’s fun to say. Another reason is because I think the wavy lines appear fluffy and ruffly at the same time. I just combined the two adjectives into an amusing, nonsense word.

Fluffer Tangle Shaded Option

Fluffer Tangle

As shown above, it can be shaded for a more dramatic effect. Alternately, the shading could be reversed for a different look. Also, the dots in the grid could be left unfilled. Really it is up to the artist for what the final outcome will be. I think it is an easy pattern to learn and is relaxing to draw. Fluffer will definitely be used in a future project of mine, whatever it may be.

Hand-Painted Mail Organizer to Stop Clutter Part 2

Posted on August 21, 2017 by Kitty

Well, I finally finished the mail organizer! Last week, I began painting it after my husband did the shop work. Inspiration was a bit lacking at first. I had to watch a couple of videos to get me started, but I think it worked out fine in the end. This one by theartsherpa was so pretty that I had to copy it. One thing about me is that I love bright, vivid colors. So, I went for a sort of bold statement. After all, I will be seeing this every day and want it to be pleasing.

Mail Organizer Part 2

After finishing the floral parts, I began painting the outside of the organizer. Since the sides are symmetrical, I thought it would be wise for me to keep it simple. When I was a kid, my grandpa got a shelf for me that had been painted in a similar style. I know he really liked it and joked that he was the artist. So, in a way, this reminds me of him.

Mail Organizer Part 2

Finished Mail Organizer

Mail Organizer Part 2

Once I finished the faces, I painted the edges a cheery pink color. Then I added little flowers on the side edges in a darker pink. After painting, my husband took it in the garage and used wood glue to lock everything in place. Once the organizer is through drying, I will put it on top of my counter. Hopefully, my three cats will leave it alone once it is in use. They really enjoy sniffing, chewing, and batting at things so it will be interesting to see how they handle the new item.

Tangle Inspired by Historic Solar Eclipse

Posted on August 20, 2017 by Kitty

Tomorrow, a total solar eclipse will be visible in the United States for the first time since 1979. It was nearly 100 years ago that one could be witnessed across the entire contiguous U.S. So, it’s a pretty exciting event. It starts on the Oregon coast at 9:06 a.m. PDT tomorrow and will end on the South Carolina coast at 4:06 p.m. EDT. If you don’t want to leave your home or buy sun-safe goggles, NASA’s website has got you covered.

Since the eclipse is kind of a historic event, I felt inspired to create a Zentangle piece. To draw it, I used tangle designs I found at tanglepatterns.com, a ruler, and a compass. The specific patterns I used are: Footlites, 4 Fun, Ciceron, and Floatfest. The others are just doodles I drew in for fun. To me, the contrast of black and white looks very crisp and signifies light and dark naturally. So, I will most likely leave it uncolored.

Total Solar Eclipse Tangle

Solar Eclipse Tangle

This piece took longer than expected, but I did finish it in time! Technically, I know that the sun’s surface cannot be seen during a solar eclipse, but I took creative license here. I thought it would look better this way. One of the things I enjoy so much with Zentangle, is that seemingly random patterns can be taken as building blocks to construct realistic or fictitious works of art. Also, because of the nature of the medium, timidity gets overtaken by creativity. When I finished this, I could hardly believe it. Usually, I get hung up on silly things that keep me from finishing a project. With this, it’s easy to gain momentum and stick with it until the end. So, whether you like science or art or both, I hope everyone gets to enjoy the total solar eclipse tomorrow.

Hand-Painted Mail Organizer to Stop Clutter Part 1

Posted on August 15, 2017 by Kitty

Mail is one of those things that just builds and builds until it becomes a paper monster. Whether its spam that should be thrown out immediately or dreaded bills that have deadlines, mail must be organized. So, a mail organizer was conceived. My husband came up with a design that would work for separating bills from everything else. The divider of the organizer has a handle for easy pick-up, and the size is small enough so that it doesn’t take up too much room.

Using medium-density fibreboard (MDF), my husband cut out a nice design and the joints. After I drew hearts on the board, he cut them out using a scroll saw. Then he glued the joints together, keeping the divider out for easy painting. It’s always fun to do projects with him, especially if it helps with organization. MDF is a very absorbent material, so I had to apply a white base-coat first.

Mail Organizer Pt. 1 Mail Organizer Part 1

Using acrylic paint, I applied it to all the surfaces except the bottom. In some areas it took two coats, so it was a bit time consuming. The edges of the material were the most absorbent and needed four coats to cover the board well. MDF must always get a base-coat in order for any design to show. Luckily acrylic paint dries quickly, so I was able to coat it all in one sitting.

Mail Organizer Part 1

After finishing that part, I had a little time left over for adding color. I’m still not 100% sure what I will be painting, but it will hopefully turn out well. Maybe something floral, but it will definitely be dainty. When the painting is done, the divider will be glued in the center, using a clamp to hold it in place. I look forward to finishing it and having a pretty organizer on my counter in place of clutter.

Mail Organizer Part 1

My Own Pattern Inspired by Zentangle

Posted on August 11, 2017 by Kitty

A few years ago, I started dabbling in Zentangle. My cousin sparked my interest by showing me her awesome work. Maria Thomas and Rick Roberts sort of fell into the art form when Maria noticed she felt better after drawing. Zentangle is a term they copyrighted to describe their method and patterns. Anyone can make up their own tangle, but one must submit it to see if it will be trademarked. It’s so much fun, that it’s hard to stop once you’ve tried. There is also a sense of calmness that comes from drawing, using their method.

My Zentangle Drawing

Above is a very humble attempt at making a tangle composition. I was in a very floral mood, as you can see. All of the patterns in it are available for free in the first link. Unfortunately, I don’t remember their names, so it will take some hunting.

After studying and trying my hand with different patterns, I came up with my own tangle. Now, I say that not knowing if there is another one out there like it. I haven’t seen all the patterns, and I’m not a certified teacher. Honestly, this came about from hours of trying to come up with something. My brain just naturally flowed into it. I became fixated with diamonds and rays. There could be many variations depending on shading or the slightest additional line. The tangle reminds me of stars and stripes, but that name might be considered too suggestive. Perhaps, Starps is a good enough tangly term.

Zentangle-Inspired Pattern

Stars and Stripes Tangle

Please feel free to use my patterns in your creations. Just drop a line for me, if you would be so kind. ? Saying where the pattern comes from helps my blog and encourages me to make more things. I enjoy sharing my ideas and projects with you. ?

Amigurumi Fun with a Kitty and a Couple of Dragons

Posted on July 28, 2017 by Kitty

Amigurumi is a Japanese art involving crocheted or knitted stuffed toys. The craft has been around for many years in Japan, and only started to become popular in the West around the 2000s. Now, it is still very popular because there are thousands of patterns and creations available, and the numbers keep growing. I first learned of amigurumi in 2012 when I started getting back into crochet. Since then, I have made a few creations. Many of them I have given away to friends and family. There is nothing quite like making a gift for a loved one that comes from the heart and is customized. Whether you make amigurumi for yourself or others, it is a very rewarding hobby.

Yarn Pile

While being a rewarding hobby, amigurumi is also a challenging one. I do not like sewing parts together because it is tedious to me, but it has to be done in this craft. So, I finally sucked it up and decided to make a cute cat. I found a great pattern and tweaked it to suit my tastes. There are so many different ways to detail a stuffed toy and truly make it your own. It took me a while to lose the timidness that came when I thought of changing a pattern. After gaining more needlework skills, it has become fun to change it up instead of scary.

Amigurumi Kitty Legs Amigurumi Kitty Parts

Amigurumi Kitty Eye Inspiration

Kitty Ear

For the eyes, I made my own pattern because I think they should be green. I used Lizbeth yarn size #20 for the irises and pupils. After I finished crocheting, I folded the ends of the eye parts towards the back and glued them. I then glued the eyes to the head using Fabri-Tac.

Amigurumi Kitty Eyes Pattern

Make two irises and two pupils
To make the irises, use a size #8 crochet hook, ch. 11, turn
sl. st. in 2nd ch. from hook, sc in next ch., hdc in next ch., dc in next 2 ch. (one in each ch.), trc in next ch., dc in next 2 ch., sc in next 2 ch., turn
sl. st. in next 2 st., sc in next st., hdc in next 2 st., dc in next st., sc in next st., sl. st. in next 2 st., finish and cut yarn.

To make the pupils, use the same hook, ch. 4, trc in first ch., finish and cut yarn.

After finishing the eyes, I decided to add some hearts to her ears by embroidering them. Since I’ve been looking at lots of crochet edgings lately, I thought it would be nice to change the skirt of the dress from the original pattern. It was a lot of fun making this kitty!

Amigurumi Kitty Finished

Amigurumi Oriental Dragons

When I first made an account on Ravelry, I found the most awesome oriental dragon pattern. Gail Hovanec came up with it. It wasn’t free, but it was well worth the price. It takes some intermediate knowledge of crochet to complete, as well as a great deal of patience. There are so many different parts to sew on correctly. Finding the eyes was a lot of fun though.

Amigurumi Dragon