Crocheted Flowers

Initially I wanted to learn to crochet so that I could create some fun embellishments for knitted hats. After a few failed attempts I think I found a couple of patterns/tutorials that are easy to follow and have a lovely end result.

Made using 50 chains initially with Hometown USA super bulky yarn, this flower is BIG! I haven't decided where to use it yet. I have visions of it on a child's hat, but weight might be an issue. Stay tuned!

The flower above and below were both made using the same pattern as the big purple flower, but used a single strand of worsted weight yarn and a chain of 50 to start. This creates a big enough flower to make a statement on any size hat without becoming heavy or overbearing. These flowers are so easy to make and are so cute on hats, headbands, bags, scarves, pins, hair clips, etc...

Here is the tutorial, easy to follow and can be adjusted for smaller or larger flowers depending on the number of chains you start with. The bulkier the yarn, the bulkier the flower. You can get a lot of different looks just by switching up the yarn. 

Non-curling Loomed Hat

Ever since I began loom knitting I have had problems with the issue of curling edges. While I am still trying to address this issue when knitting scarves and flat panels, I found a pattern that I love for making a hat brim that doesn't curl or roll and doesn't need to be folded up (but looks very cute folded as well!). It creates a lovely finished edge and adds interest to a basic knit stitch hat.

Of course when I took pictures of this hat, I neglected to leave the brim unfolded. But you can see in the picture below that the brim uses a different stitch pattern that allows for a neat finished edge. No rolling. Here is a photo of another hat that uses the same method and isn't folded:

I used the red Knifty Knitter round loom for the purple hat, this pattern isn't size specific and can be used with any size or brand loom.

Use the Long tail cast-on method. A great site for cast-on and bind-off tutorials can be found here.

Purl one row. Knit one row. Purl one row.

E-wrap and knit over until your hat is the desired length.

I love using the flat draw-string bind-off method over the traditional gathered bind-off. It creates a more smooth top with fewer gathers. A bit more complex, but once you get the hang of it and compare it with a gathered bind-off you will see that it is worth it. Directions can be found at the link above.

Add your favorite pom pom, flower, or leave it as is! This is definitely my go to hat pattern because it is quick, well made, and very cute. Enjoy!

Loom Love

To my husband's dismay, I have taken up another crafting hobby. Loom knitting. I purchased the round set of Knifty Knitter looms on amazon and got to work experimenting right away. Here are a few of the projects I have completed.

A purple pom pom hat

An Ewok inspired hat with ears

 A loomed hat with a crocheted flower

This snowman was such a great model, not a diva at all!

I have found Pinterest and Youtube to be invaluable in helping me figure things out. Follow my Needle Crafts board on Pinterest to find things that have inspired me or taught me new skills.