Sheep Dog's Fleece

Giant Flowers

2012-02-12T16:57:00.000-08:00

I have challenged myself to learn some new stitches. It started when I saw a cute blanket on pinterest that used the bobble stitch. I had a bunch of pink yarn so I started making a blanket. The stitch was fun and so I made a little cup using it. Since I am new to this stitch I didn't feel comfortable making a pattern but here is a picture so you know what I am talking about.

The blanket isn't done but I'll get back to it soon. Right now I am learning another stitch, the loop/fur stitch. It reminds me of shag carpeting but its kinda fun. I had a big vase that needed to be filled with flowers but I also have a little two-year-old so I couldn't put anything breakable in it. I decided to make some giant flowers.

Here is my first attempt.

To make the stem stiff I used a section of an old garden hose.

The flower itself is the fur/loop stitch worked in a rectangle (mine was 6 inches by 16 inches) and then cinched into a ball. Here is my poor attempt at explaining it by drawing the process.

Did that make it more or less clear? Well here is the pattern:

Stem:
Cut a section of garden hose the length you want it (Mine are around 20 inches long)
Using the magic circle, sc6 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (12)
Rnd 2-? : sc around (12) for as long as you want your stem to be. It will need to be just a little longer than the hose. Slip it onto the hose when it is long enough. You can do this by twisting it back and forth and pushing till it slips on.
End Rnd: decrease around (6) Seal up hole and hide ends.

Flower:
Learn the loop/fur stitch here
Make a 16 inch long chain and start doing the stitch back and forth until you have a 6 inch wide rectangle. Sew it into a tube with loops out. Weave yarn through top of tube and cinch tight. You might need to stitch any remaining hole closed. Weave yarn through bottom of tube and cinch almost all the way tight, stuffing as you tighten. Leave a rounded area in the stuffing for the stem to sit in. When you have cinched it tight enough to equal the width of the stem put the stem in (it should go through most of the flower for stability). Sew flower to stem.

Size reference picture with my four-year-old hiding it behind her back:

I have several more stems already made. I look forward to trying different types of flowers and then deciding my favorite.

Cupid

2012-02-06T10:10:00.000-08:00

A few years ago I made this cupid to hang in the middle of a crochet heart I bought. I love getting him out each February to display on my door. I don't have a pattern but I thought maybe you might like some inspiration for Valentine's Day decorations to crochet. And yes those are toothpick arrows.

Koala

2011-12-09T15:23:00.000-08:00

I like to shop at second-hand stores for small balls of yarn. You can find interesting colors and I never need a big ball so it works fine to buy them as leftovers. The other day I found two unopened packages of Koala safety noses at my local second-hand store. Now, I might make one Koala but I can't see myself making six. I bought both packages anyway because they were only fifty cents.

Now if you really want to make him and you don't have a nose you can comment on here and I will try to scrounge up enough money to send you one. After I find homes for my leftover five noses though, you'll have to find a supplier somewhere else (and no I don't know who that is).

Here is a picture of the leftover noses and my brush. I used my brush to make the koala fluffy. Planet June uses this technique here and describes it really much better than I could. She used a pet brush but my hairbrush worked just fine.

And here is my koala from a few different angles.

Right now my koala is climbing my plant. I decided to tie him on a stem and leave him there just for fun. He would be adorable hung in a backyard tree; though I don't know how long he'd last out in the elements.

Here is the koala pattern:

Use an f hook throughout

Head and body combined:
With grey yarn
sc5 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 2: *sc1, 2sc in next st* repeat around (15)
Rnd 3: *2sc in next st, sc2* repeat around (20)
Rnd 4: *sc3, 2sc in next st* repeat around (25)
Rnd 5: *2sc in next st, sc4* repeat around (30)
Rnd 6: *sc5, 2sc in next st* repeat around (35)
Rnd 7-11: sc around (35)
Rnd 12: *decrease, sc4* repeat around (30)
Rnd 13: *decrease, sc3* repeat around (25)
Rnd 14: *decrease, sc2* repeat around (20)
Rnd 15: *decrease, sc1* repeat around (15)
Cut two round circles out of felt and make holes in the center of them for the safety eyes. Put on eyes and nose and stuff head.
Rnd 16-18: sc around (15)
Rnd 19: sc twice in each st around (30)
Rnd 20: *sc1, 2sc in next st* repeat around (45)
Rnd 21-27: sc around (45)
Rnd 28: *decrease, sc1* repeat around (30)
Rnd 29: decrease around (15)
Stuff and then decrease until you have only 5 stitches left and seal up hole.

On rounds 28 till the end I recommend you stitch very tight to prevent holes in your work and use Planet June's technique here to make invisible decrease stitches.

Arms (make 2)
Start with black
sc5 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each st around (10)
Rnd 2: sc around (10)
Switch to grey
Rnd 3-9: sc around (10)

Legs (make 2)
Start with black
sc5 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each st around (10)
Rnd 2: *sc1, 2sc in next st* repeat around (15)
Rnd 3: *sc2, 2sc in next st* repeat around (20)
Rnd 4: sc around (20)
Rnd 5: *decrease, sc1* repeat 5 times, decrease (13)
Switch to grey
Rnd 6-12: sc around (13)

Ears (make two grey and two white)
sc5 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each st around (10)
Rnd 2: *sc1, 2sc in next st* repeat around (15)
Rnd 3: *sc2, 2sc in next st* repeat around (20)
Rnd 4: *sc3, 2sc in next st* repeat around (25)
Leave a tail to sew to two halves together

Stomach
Make with white
ch10, turn starting in 2nd ch from hook sc9, ch1, turn, sc9, ch1, turn, sc9, ch1, turn, sc9

Chin
Make with white
ch5, turn starting in 2nd ch from hook, sc4, ch1, turn, sc4

I fluffed up all of the pieces before joining them together and then fluffed them a little more after they were all together. Remember to vary where you decrease and increase in the round for the best look (for ease of writing I put them all in the same place but it does look much better if you don't always start and end the same with the decreases/increases or you get lines).

Bean Bags

2011-11-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

Before I started writing patterns down I made this fun pinto "bean bag" one day while I was canning beans. Today I decided to recreate him. The new version looks a little "older" so I gave him a mustache.

Bean Bag (use an f/3.75 hook throughout)
Rnd1: sc6 in a circle
Rnd2: 2sc in each sc around (12)
Rnd3: *sc1, 2sc in next st* repeat around (18)
Rnd4: *sc2, 2sc in next st* repeat around (24)
Rnd5-7: sc around (24)
Rnd8: decrease 4 times, sc16 (20)
Rnd9: decrease 4 times, sc10 decrease 1 time (15)
Rnd10: decrease 3 times, sc9 (12)
Rnd11: sc around (12) Put in eyes and face. If you want to make a mustache use the pattern from my mustache bunny.
Rnd12: 2sc in next 4 stitches, sc8 (16)
Rnd13: sc5, 2sc in next 4 stitches, sc7 (20)
Rnd14: sc6, 2sc in next 4 stitches, sc10 (24)
Rnd15-17: sc around (24)
Cut the end off of some nylons and fill with beans then tie a knot. Push it into the body.
Rnd18: *decrease, sc2* repeat around (18)
Rnd19: *decrease, sc1* repeat around (12)
Rnd20: decrease around (6)
decrease once more and sew up hole.

This is a picture of the bean-filled nylon before I stitched it up.

And this is a profile shot.

Owl Ornament

2011-10-27T17:03:00.000-07:00

I have been busy lately working on my book so I apologize for the long absence. To make up for the silence I have decided to try a Pinterest Challenge. I picked an inspiration photo from my crochet file on Pinterest.

I thought these animal ornaments might be fun to crochet. The original inspiration is from etsy seller RedMarionette.

Here is my version of the owl:

Use an F/5-3.75MM hook throughout
Rnd 1: 5sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3: *sc1 then 2sc in next sc* repeat around (15)
Rnd 4: *sc2 then 2sc in next sc* repeat around (20)
Rnd 5: *dc in front loop of next stitch, tc in same stitch, dtc (double treble stitch) in same stitch, tc in next stitch front loop only, dc in same stitch* (all in front loop only), sc in next stitch front loop only, then repeat between * for next two front loops, sc15 (20)
Rnd 6: sc around, making stitches behind forehead peaks using the left over back loops and continue around (20)
Rnd 7-8: sc around (20)
Rnd 9: *decrease, sc2* repeat around (15)
Make eyes (see below), use safety eyes to put through white layer and green layer and attach. Sew on beak and stuff as you go.
Rnd 10-13: sc around (15)
Rnd 14: *decrease, sc1* repeat around (10)
Rnd 15: decrease around (5) seal up hole and hide ends

Eyes (make 2)
Rnd 1: 5sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2sc in each sc around (10) sl st next st

Wings (make 2)
Rnd 1: 7sc in a circle
Rnd 2: sc3, 2sc in next 3 stitches, sc1 (10)
Rnd 3: sc2, 2sc in next 4 stitches, sc4 (14)
Cut thread, leave tail, sew to body. Add a little string to hang on the tree.

Crow

2011-09-05T16:25:00.000-07:00

I decided to make a crow to go with my scarecrow. Sorry I tried to make a scarecrow pattern but it got too complicated to write. I hope you like the crow though, enough to make a whole murder.

Crow
f hook throughout

Body
Rnd1: 5sc in a circle
Rnd2: 2sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd3: *sc1, 2sc in next sc* repeat around (15)
Rnd4: *2sc in next sc, sc2* repeat around (20)
Rnd5: *sc3, 2sc in next sc* repeat around (25)
Rnd6: sc around (25)
Rnd7: sc6 in front loop only, *ch1, turn, sc in 2nd st from hook, sc5* repeat 5 times. Cut thread and leave a long tail to sew the tail together.
Join thread to 1rst leftover back loop and sc6 in back loops then sc19 (25)
Rnd8: *decrease, sc3* repeat around (20)
Rnd9: *sc2, decrease* repeat around (15) sew up tail, and start stuffing body (see pictures below for how to sew up tail)
Rnd10: *decrease, sc1* repeat around (10)
Rnd11: decrease around (5) cut thread, stitch up hole.

Wings (make 2)
sc7 in a circle, sl st one, 2dc in next st, 2dc in next st, tc in next st, ch1, turn, sc3, ch1, turn, sc3, turn, sc2, turn, sc1
cut thread, sew a point on the end then weave through wing and leave a tail to sew to the body.

Head
Rnd1: 6sc in a circle
Rnd2: 2sc in each sc around (12)
Rnd3-5: sc around (12)
put in eyes and start stuffing head (see picture for eye placement)
Rnd6: decrease, sc4, decrease, sc4 (10)
Rnd7-8: sc around (10)
Rnd9: 2sc in next sc, sc4, 2sc in next sc, sc4 (12)
Rnd10: *sc3, 2sc in next sc* repeat 2 times (15)
Sew head to body, sew wings to body (see picture for placement)

Beak
ch8, turn, sc7, ch1, turn, sc7
cut thread and leave a really long tail, roll beak up (see picture), sew beak to face (see picture), wrap beak in thread and give it a point (see picture)

I then used some wire to make legs to stick in my pot.

Here is the picture of the tail before it is sewn together.

Here is how you curl the tail under to sew it.

Here is the finished tail

This is where I put the eyes.

This is the beak before curling it.

Here is how you curl the beak.

This is what it looks like sewn onto the bird before being wrapped in yarn.

See his wire legs.

All done.

Happy Labor Day

2011-09-05T09:10:00.000-07:00

I have been putting out my fall decorations today. I love the crisp, cool feeling in the air. Fall is my favorite time of year.

Birds Flying

2011-08-23T21:11:00.000-07:00

Another nursery idea. I will post more patterns soon when I am not so busy enjoying the last of the summer before my kids start school.

Fun Nursery Idea

2011-08-02T09:25:00.000-07:00

I made this a few years ago to hang above my son's crib. It was easy to make and I still love it.

Dormouse

2011-07-31T16:12:00.000-07:00

Years ago I helped my grandmother clean the dust out of her china cabinet. In appreciation she gave me four teacups. Yesterday as I was dusting my own china cabinet I looked at those four teacups and thought of the Mad Hatter's tea party in Alice in Wonderland. So now my china cabinet holds those four treasured teacups and a dormouse.

Dormouse
use an f hook throughout

Ears (make 2)
sc5 in a circle
Rnd1: 2sc in each sc around (10)

Body
sc5 in a circle
Rnd1: 2sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd2: *sc1, 2sc in next sc* repeat around (15)
Rnd3: *2sc in next sc, sc2* repeat around (20)
Rnd4: *sc3, 2sc in next sc* repeat around (25)
Rnd5-7: sc around (25)
Rnd8: *decrease, sc3* repeat around (20)Start stuffing
Rnd9-10: sc around (20)
Rnd11: *sc2, decrease* repeat around (15)
Rnd12: sc around (15)
Rnd13: *decrease, sc1* repeat around (10)
Rnd14: sc around (10)
Rnd15: decrease 1, sc8 (9)Put in eyes and sew on ears
Rnd16: *decrease, sc1* repeat around (3)
Hide thread, sew up hole with nose color

Petal Pens

2011-07-10T13:16:00.000-07:00

As requested by vicarno's mama, here is the pattern for the flower pens. I did three styles of petals to show how you can change the pattern depending on what is your favorite. You could also design your own petals.

The pattern below is for this style of petal.

Flower Pens
Use an f hook throughout. It fits a standard plastic pen.

Starting with your center color, use the magic circle and sc5 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3: sl st, switch to petal color, *sl st in front loop only, ch8, sl st in 2nd ch from hook, sc1, hdc1, dc2, hdc1, sc1, sl st in original front loop* repeat 9 times (10 petals)
Rnd 4: switch to green, sl st in back loop left behind from Rnd 3, sc 10 in back loops (10)
Rnd 5: decrease, sc1, decrease, sc1, decrease, sc2 (7)
Rnd 6-15: sc around (7) sl st last stitch and weave in end.

Here is a photo of when I switched to the petal color in Rnd 3.

Here is a photo of when I switched to green in Rnd 4

After you have done Rnd 4 you can trim the yarn ends a little before you go on.

For these petals, on Rnd 3 do this: sl st, switch to petal color, *sl st in front loop only, ch8, sl st in original front loop* repeat 9 times (10 petals)

For these petals, on Rnd 3 do this: sl st, switch to petal color, *sl st, dc5 in next sc* repeat for five petals, sl st last stitch in back loop and switch to green and continue with Rnd 4.

Here are some examples of other petal designs you could use. They are nice to brighten up a desk.

The Adventures of Curzano

2011-07-07T10:58:00.000-07:00

It all started with a book on sale called Felted Crochet. I just thought maybe I should try felting something, you know, cause the pictures in the book were so great.

I went home and looked at my stash of yarn. To my dismay I realized all of my yarn is not the correct type of yarn to use for felting; well all except one small little ball of orange, 100% virgin wool.

Orange is my eldest son's favorite color and he pleaded for me to make him a tic tac toe game. I told him I didn't have enough yarn and I stared to crochet something. It got to the point where I needed to stuff whatever I was making, so I referred to my book on felted crocheting.

Jane Davis, the author of the book, told me I needed to stitch tight so the stuffing wouldn't show through after felting. Had I stitched tight? I looked over my crochet with a critical eye and realized I hadn't stitched ultra tight. Back I went to my yarn stash and found a few other balls of orange yarn; these ones wouldn't felt but they would work great as stuffing.

After stuffing my piece I continued crocheting. The figure of a cat took shape. My children named him Curzano and I called him Curz.

I told him what was going to happen next and he was outraged.
"Madam," he said, "I am a cat. I refuse to be treated like that!" He gave me a scowl and folded his arms.

"But Curz, It will make you look wonderful," I told him.

"I am already as beautiful as I wish to be," he said.

"Surely, you could stand to have a little more fuzz in your fur?"

"No!" he said and then he turned his back to me.

I ignored him and picked up his little body and stuck him in a bowl of hot, soapy water.

After a thorough scrubbing and rubbing I rinsed him off several times in ice water. He was miserable, wet, and angry. I pushed and molded him back into shape and folded his little arms for him. With care I placed him into a clean butter container to dry.

His little eyes looked up over the rim at me accusingly. "Stay there and dry," I said.

"Grrr!" he said.

I feel sorry for the little cat with his fur all ruffled. I'm off to the store to see if I can find some great yarn to make Curz some company; you know, cause misery loves company.

Army Tank

2011-06-15T10:03:00.000-07:00

I saw this cute pencil sharpener and decided it would make a wonderful soft toy as well. And it does.

Tank
I used an E(3.5 mm) hook throughout

Dome (make one)
Rnd 1: sc5 in a circle
Rnd 2: 2sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3: *sc1, 2sc in next sc* repeat around (15)
Rnd 4: *2sc in next sc, sc2* repeat around (20)
Rnd 5: *sc3, 2sc in next sc* repeat around (25)
Rnd 6-10: sc around (25)

Turret (make one)
Rnd 1: sc7 in a circle
Rnd 2-5: sc around (7) sl st last stitch

Sew turret rounded end to dome as shown in pictures.

Tank body (make one)
ch21, turn, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc19, *ch1, turn, sc20* repeat 12 times, ch1 sc along the edge to make 15 sc stitches along the side of your stitches, *ch1, turn, sc15* repeat 18 times. See picture for a better idea of this piece finished. Sew two ends together and sew top pieces on.

Side pieces (make 4) I made these a slightly different shade of green for contrast.
Rnd 1: sc6 in a circle
Rnd 2: 2sc in each sc around (12)
Rnd 3: *sc1, 2sc in next sc* repeat around (18)
Rnd 4: *2sc in next sc, sc2* repeat around (24)
Rnd 5: sc8, ch1, turn, sc in 2nd st from hook, sc7, *ch1, turn, sc8* repeat 3 times
Sew two side pieces together. Leave long tails to sew to sides. They will be a little larger than the tank because they are going to dome inward. Start sewing in the middle of the tank and the side piece working around and stretching as you go. Stuff tank and sew on other side.

Rivets (make 10)
Rnd 1: sc7 in a circle sl st once
Leave extra long tails to sew on. First sew five on one side then pull the yarn all the way through to the other side. Sew on the other five rivets and sew the two matching sets together through the tank to make the two sides bend in a little. See pictures for a better explanation.

Enjoy!

Flower Pens

2011-05-24T09:25:00.000-07:00

I made these to hide the ugly pens on my desk a few years ago. I never wrote a pattern but I thought you might like the idea. They are a variation of a finger puppet. If you think you would like to make them, comment. If enough people are interested in a pattern, maybe I will write one.

Hungry Bunny

2011-04-21T11:59:00.000-07:00

Here is the hungry bunny. He is all ready to eat his vegetables. He helps little ones learn how to count to ten and recognize their colors and he is just so cute. I hope you enjoy him.

This bunny is hungry for vegetables. He loves carrots the most but is also a fan of cabbage, broccoli, peas, cherry tomatoes, corn, radishes, and turnips.

This pattern is for a solid colored bunny. If you want to make patches like my bunny just alter the color as you want for you own unique looking bunny. He takes a lot of yarn so make sure you have enough or use a color you know you can get more of. I ran out when I got to the ears so I had to run and get some more. Luckily it was in the cream because I don't think I could have color matched the brown which I found in my stash. All of the vegetable patterns are found under my food tab on the side. I used an f hook throughout.

White Circle Around the Eye (make 2)
sc10 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (20)
Rnd 2: sl st around (20)

Body
sc5 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 2: *sc1, 2sc in next st* repeat around (15)
Rnd 3: *2sc in next st, sc2* repeat around (20)
Rnd 4: *sc3, 2sc in next st* repeat around (25)
Rnd 5: *2sc in next st, sc4* repeat around (30)
Rnd 6: *sc5, 2sc in next st* repeat around (35)
Rnd 7: *2sc in next st, sc6* repeat around (40)
Rnd 8: *sc7, 2sc in next st* repeat around (45)
Rnd 9-14: sc around (45)
Rnd 15: Put a stitch marker in the 20th stitch from hook
ch 20 and sl st to marker spot, sc25 (45)
Rnd 16: sc around (45) Put in features, Sew in stomach, stuff head. See pictures for further explanation.
Rnd 17: sc around. (grab stitches from the back of the stomach as you go by. You don't need to do this all the way across just in a few places to keep the stomach in place) (45)
Rnd 18: sc around (45)
Rnd 19: *sc8, 2sc in next st* repeat around (50)
Rnd 20-35: sc around (50)
Rnd 36: *decrease, sc8* repeat around (45)
Rnd 37: *sc7, decrease* repeat around (40)
Rnd 38: *decrease, sc6* repeat around (35)
Rnd 39: *sc5, decrease* repeat around (30)
Rnd 40: *decrease, sc4* repeat around (25)
Rnd 41: *sc3, decrease* repeat around (20) Stuff sides around stomach lightly and bottom of bunny.
Rnd 42: *decrease, sc2* repeat around (15)
Rnd 43: *sc1, decrease* repeat around (10)
Rnd 44: decrease around (5) Sew up hole and hide ends.

Stomach
sc5 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 2: *sc1, 2sc in next st* repeat around (15)
Rnd 3: *2sc in next st, sc2* repeat around (20)
Rnd 4: *sc3, 2sc in next st* repeat around (25)
Rnd 5: *2sc in next st, sc4* repeat around (30)
Rnd 6: *sc5, 2sc in next st* repeat around (35)
Rnd 7: *2sc in next st, sc6* repeat around (40)
Rnd 8: *sc7, 2sc in next st* repeat around (45)
Rnd 9-13: sc around (45)
Rnd 14: *decrease, sc7* repeat around (40)
Rnd 15-29: sc around (40)
Sew to mouth opening. Stitch to back of head. See picture for a better description and body instruction to show when to stitch it in.

Teeth (make 2)
ch6, turn, sc5, ch1, turn sc5, ch1, turn, sc5, ch1, turn, sc5, ch1, turn, sc5, ch1, turn, sc5, ch1, turn, sc5
Fold tooth in half and sew sides together. Insert cut plastic lid piece. Sew to top of lip. For a better description see the pictures.

Ear (make 2)
sc6 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (12)
Rnd 2: *sc1, 2sc in next st* repeat around (18)
Rnd 3: *sc2, 2sc in next st* repeat around (24)
Rnd 4-8: sc around (24)
Rnd 9: decrease, sc22 (23)
Rnd 10-12: sc around (23)
Rnd 13: decrease, sc19, decrease (21)
Rnd 14-15: sc around (21)
nd 16: *sc4,decrease* repeat 2 times, sc3 (18)
Rnd 17: sc around (18)
Rnd 18-23: decrease by one st each round so you will start at 18 st and decrease down to 12 st, vary where you decrease to get the best finish (17-12)
Rnd 24-29: sc around (12)
Don't stuff. Sew to head.

Tail
sc6 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (12)
Rnd 2: *sc1, 2sc in next st* repeat around (18)
Rnd 3-5: sc around (18)
Stuff and sew to bunny.

Arm (make 2)
sc6 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each st around (12)
Rnd 2: *sc1, 2sc in next st* repeat around (18)
Rnd 3-7: sc around (18)
Rnd 8: *decrease, sc1* repeat around (12)
Rnd 9-13: sc around (12)
Stuff tips of hands only. Sew to body of bunny.

Leg (make 2)
Same as arm except stuff a little more and stitch to bottom of bunny.

This is the way the stomach sits in the bunny. You can stuff the head from behind before you stitch the back of the stomach to the back of the head.

You must put in the eyes and teeth before sewing in the stomach. This is how it all fits together. You can see originally I had a nose. I decided I didn't like it so I took it off.

Here is how you grab the stitches in round 17 of the body. Bend the stomach back so you get the full depth of mouth before you do this. Then grab the stitches near the back of the stomach. This hides the stitches and keeps the stuffing in the head so the bunny still is partially stuffed even if he doesn't have any vegetables in his stomach.

Here is the teeth before and after you fold and sew them.

I used my cupcake trick here so the teeth would be stiff. You probably don't have to do this. I just liked the idea of having stiff teeth. I used two pieces of plastic in each tooth with the pieces back to back to hide the blue text from the butter lid.

I made a version of this bunny a few years ago for my niece before I started writing patterns down. This is my attempt to recreate it. As you can notice the original had a felt nose, eyes and teeth. He even had a felt stomach sewn in. If you like that better you can use felt on your bunny instead. I decided to try something different with this version. The original version didn't have arms and legs either and was a little plumper to help him stay sitting. My kids kept asking me where his arms and legs were this time so I decided to add some. You can decide which you like better. If you leave off the legs and arms make his bottom a little bigger to compensate so he will sit better. Just gradually increase the stitches in the bottom to make him evenly plump.

This is the original.

Here is the new version with his teeth tucked and his belly full.

Mini Turnip

2011-04-21T09:58:00.000-07:00

I almost forgot to put on the turnip. With it you have an even ten vegetables for the hungry bunny.

Turnip
sc5 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 2: *sc1, 2sc in next st* repeat around (15)
Rnd 3: *2 sc in next st, sc2* repeat around (20)
Rnd 4-5: sc around (20)
Rnd 6: switch to white, sc around (20)
Rnd 7: *decrease, sc2* repeat around (15) Stuff
Rnd 8: *sc1, decrease* repeat around (10)
Rnd 9: decrease around (5)
Sew up hole leave a tail for the root.

Leaves (make one little, one big)
sc5 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in first 4sc, ch4, turn, sc3, sl st in next sc (stop here for little leaf), tc2 in next st then sl st in same st.
Sew to top of turnip.

Almost Finished

2011-04-20T18:56:00.000-07:00

The light is fading so I will have to wait to show you all of him but hungry bunny is almost done!

Radish

2011-04-18T18:21:00.000-07:00

Radish
5sc in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 2: *sc1, 2sc in next st* repeat around (15)
Rnd 3-4: sc around (15)
Rnd 5: *decrease, sc1* repeat around (10)
Rnd 6: sc around (10)
Rnd 7: decrease, sc5, decrease, sc1 (8)
Rnd 8: decrease to 5, stitch closed hole and leave a short tail for root.

Leaves (make 3)
sc8 in a circle
sl st to first st, ch7, sl st 6 starting in 2nd ch from hook, sc3, sl st 1
Sew onto top of radish

Cherry Tomato

2011-04-18T16:50:00.000-07:00

sc5 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 2-3: sc around (10)
Rnd 4: decrease around (5)
Sew up hole. Use green yarn to make the stem.

Mini Corn on the Cob

2011-04-18T16:17:00.000-07:00

Corn
start with yellow and use an f hook throughout
sc3 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (6)
Rnd 2: *sc1, 2sc in next st* repeat around (9)
Rnd 3-6: sc around
Rnd 7: switch to green, sc around
Rnd 8-9: sc around
Rnd 10: *decrease, sc1* repeat around (6)
Rnd 11: decrease one stitch then sew hole closed

Husks (make 3)
ch6, turn sc5 starting in 2nd ch from hook, ch1, turn sc5, turn, sc4, ch1, turn, sc4, turn, sc3, ch1, turn, sc3, ch1, turn, sc3, turn sc2, turn sc1
Sew to corn. You can add a few stitches of other yellows to make extra kernels in the corn.

Broccoli

2011-04-18T10:19:00.000-07:00

Stem
sc6 in a circle
Rnd 1: sc around in back loops only (6)
Rnd 2-5: sc around (6)

Head
sc6 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (12)
Rnd 2: *sc1, 2sc in next sc* repeat around (18)
Rnd 3: *sc2, 2sc in next sc* repeat around (24)
Rnd 5: sc around (24)
Rnd 6: dc1, tc1, sc2, dc1, tc1, dc1, sc3, dc1, tc1, sc2, dc1, tc1, dc1, sc3, dc1, tc1, sc2 (24)
Rnd 7: *decrease, sc2* repeat around (18)
Rnd 8: *decrease, sc1* repeat around (12)
Rnd 9: decrease around (6)
Stuff with yarn very lightly. Create a few indents by sewing stitches in the top. Sew to stem.

Pea Pod

2011-04-17T15:43:00.000-07:00

The bunny is still hungry.

Peas (make 3)
sc4 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (8)
Rnd 2: sc around (8)
Rnd 3: decrease to 5, stuff as you go. Sew hole up, leave tail to sew to pod

Pod sides (make 2)
ch11, turn sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc9, ch1, turn, in 2nd st from hook, sc10
Sew sides together on the two short sides and one long side. Sew in peas.

Mini Cabbage

2011-04-14T09:58:00.000-07:00

Here is a little cabbage for all of the little hungry bunnies out there.

Use an f hook throughout

Center
sc5 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 2: *2sc in first sc, sc1* repeat around (15)
Rnd 3: sc around (15)
Rnd 4: *decrease, sc1* repeat around (10)
Stuff
Rnd 5: decrease to 5, cut thread, sew up hole

Leaves (make 7)
sc5 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 2: *2sc in first sc, sc1* repeat around (15)
Rnd 3: *sc2, 2sc in next st* repeat around (20) sl st last st
Sew leaves to center in a staggered pattern.

Lamb

2011-04-07T09:26:00.000-07:00

Mini Carrots

2011-04-01T09:15:00.000-07:00

For all of the little bunnies hopping around.

Carrot
Stuff as you go
with orange sc5 in a circle
Rnd 1: sc2 in each sc around (10)
Rnd 2-3: sc around (10)
Rnd 4: decrease, sc8 (9)
Rnd 5: sc around (9)
Rnd 6: sc7, decrease (8)
Rnd 7: sc around (8)
Rnd 8: decrease, sc6 (7)
Rnd 9: decrease, sc2, decrease, sc1 (5)
Sew up hole

Leaves
with green sc5 in a circle
*sl st in 1rst st, ch 6, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc4* repeat 4 times and sl st in last st
Fold the greenery in half and sew to top of carrot.

To make the medium carrot: skip Rnd 3
For littlest carrot: skip Rnd 3, 5, and 7

Beaver Puppet

2011-03-21T11:05:00.000-07:00

My son recently lost some teeth and now looks like he has beaver teeth. So in honor of the occasion here is a beaver finger puppet pattern.

Beaver Finger Puppet
5 sc in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 2: ch2, sl st in 2nd ch from hook, sc1 in front loop only, sc1, ch2, sl st in 2nd ch from hook, sc1 in front loop only, sc7
Rnd 3: sc around using back loops behind ears (10)
Rnd 4-5: sc around (10)
Sew on face. Teeth are four strings of yarn tied into a knot then tied to face with ends hidden inside of puppet.
Rnd 6: sc6, ch4, sl st 3 starting in 2nd ch from hook, sc1 in front loop only, sc1 in both loops, sc1 in front loop only, ch4, sl st 3 starting in 2nd ch from hook, sc 1
Rnd 7-9: sc around (using back loop left behind in Rnd 6 for Rnd 7) (10)
Rnd 10: (Using front loops only switch to brown but leave red yarn attached and uncut) sc4, ch 1, turn, sc 3, ch1, turn, sc 3, ch 1, turn, sc 3, turn, sc1, sl st last and cut brown thread and hide end.
Rnd 11: Use red yarn from start of Rnd 10 and loop it through the first back loop then sc3 (using back loops) ch4, turn and sl st 3, sc2, ch4, turn and sl st 3, sc2 and sl st last.

The Italian

2011-03-09T16:40:00.000-08:00

We love skinny Italian Greyhounds. They are great with their pencil-thin legs.

See them from the front.

See them from the side.

See them from the back.

See them together.

Greyhound Pattern
Use an E hook throughout
Head
Sc 5 in a circle
Rnd 1: 2sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 2-3: sc around
Put in nose (I used a black eye for the nose)
Rnd 4-7: sc around
Stuff nose
Rnd 8: *sc1, 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (15)
Rnd 9-10: sc around
Put in eyes and stuff head
Rnd 11: *sc1, decrease* repeat around (10)
Rnd 12: decrease around (5)
Sew up hole

Ears (make 2)
ch4, sc in 2nd ch from hook and sc2
ch1, sc in 2nd ch from hook and sc2
sc2, turn and sc1, turn and sc1, sc3 down side to end up where you began
Cut thread and fold in half and sew sides together and sew them to head.

Neck
5 sc in a circle
Rnd 1: 2 sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 2-10: sc around
cut thread and stuff. Sew rounded top to head.

Body
6 sc in a circle
Rnd 1: 2 sc in each sc around (12)
Rnd 2: *sc1, 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (18)
Rnd 3-4: sc around (18)
Start stuffing and stuff as you go.
Rnd 5: decrease next 5 stitches, sc8 (13)
Rnd 6: decrease next 3 stitches, sc7 (10)
Rnd 7: decrease next 2 stitches, sc6 (8)
Rnd 8: sc around
Rnd 9: 2 sc in next 5 stitches, sc 3 (13)
Rnd 10: *2 sc in next st, sc1* repeat 4 times, sc3 (18)
Rnd 11: *sc2, 2 sc in next st* repeat twice, sc9 (21)
Rnd 12-13: sc around (21)
Rnd 14: *decrease, sc2* repeat 3 times, decrease, sc1, decrease (15)
Rnd 15-16: sc around (15)
Rnd 17: *sc 1, decrease* repeat around (10)
Rnd 18: decrease around (5)
Sew up hole. Sew neck to body.

Tail
ch15, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc13.
Cut thread and sew to body.

Legs (make 4)
5 sc in a circle
Rnd 1-10: sc around (5)
Cut thread. Cut a pencil to the right length and slip it into the crochet case. Sew legs to body.

Little Green Men

2011-02-28T10:38:00.000-08:00

Ants crawling on a forgotten apple in the basement is my first sign of spring this year. I am finding creatures in other places too. I was watering my plants today and picking off dead leaves when I saw a wee little hat and pot of gold coins.

As I was reaching my fingers forward a creature with amazingly long arms came out of the plants. Very quickly he ran to the pot and hat and seized them tight.

I picked him up, put him where I thought he would be more comfortable and asked his name. He told me and we had a polite conversation. He started to count his coins. We had a fun conversation.

Sorry no pattern this time. I thought you might like seeing this dapper fellow though. Maybe it will give you ideas for making your own. Seeing the cute things other people make always helps me get ideas.
I got the idea for the arms from this adorable knitted hug monster which I still want to try to crochet.)

Wizard

2011-01-27T07:16:00.000-08:00

I tried to make a gnome. I ended up with a wizard. Though I'm not disappointed. He is still cute. Maybe I will have to try a different approach next time, if I want a gnome.

I used an f hook throughout

Head and Hat

Start with tan yarn
Rnd 1: 5 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc (I will call this increase from here on) around (10)
Rnd 3: *sc1, increase*, repeat around (15)
Rnd 4: *sc2, increase*, repeat around (20)
Rnd 5: *sc3, increase*, repeat around (25)
Rnd 6-7: sc around (25)
Rnd 8: sc around in back loops only (25)
Rnd 9-11: sc around (25)
Rnd 12: switch to blue, sc in front loop only, sc around (25)
Rnd 13-14: sc around (25)
Rnd 15: Put your hook through next st and the back loop you left behind in Rnd 12 and sc both together to join. Do this all the way around. (25)
Rnd 16-20: sc around (25) At this point make your beard and hair piece and sew them on. Also make the mustache and sew it on. Put in the eyes and stuff the head, before you continue.
Rnd 21-26: decrease on first st, sc rest (Rnd 21 you will have 24 st and will lose one a round till Rnd 26 you have (19) Decrease on the first st to make the hat get it's wavy look
Rnd 27: sc around (19) Stuff as you go.
Rnd 28: sc8, decrease, sc9 (18)
Rnd 29: sc8, decrease, sc8 (17)
Rnd 30: sc8, decrease, sc7 (16)
Rnd 31: sc6, decrease 2, sc6 (14)
Rnd 32: sc4, decrease 2, sc5 (12)
Rnd 33: sc4, decrease, sc4 (9)
Rnd 34: sc3, decrease, sc4 (8)
Rnd 35: sc3, decrease, sc3 (7)
Rnd 36: sc2, decrease, sc3 (6)
Cut thread and sew up hole

Beard (brown yarn)

Rnd 1: Pull your thread through the hoop you left behind on Rnd 8 in the head. Starting there, sc around in all of the hoops (25) see picture for visual explanation
Rnd 2-5: sc around (25)
Rnd 6: dc around
Rnd 7: *triple crochet 2 times in next st, sc1* repeat around. cut thread.

Hair Piece (brown yarn)

ch 20, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc19
ch 1, sc back along ch starting at 2nd ch from hook, sc19 (repeat for 5 more rows)
on last row, ch 1, *triple cr twice in next st, sc1* repeat across row, sl st in last st. Cut thread, leave tail for sewing.

Mustache (make 2, brown yarn)

Rnd 1: 4 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: sc in next st then ch 5
sc in 2nd ch from hook
sc6 along ch and into round, sl st in next st
cut thread

Body

Start with red yarn
Rnd 1: 5 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3: *sc1, increase* repeat around (15)
Rnd 4: *sc2, increase* repeat around (20)
Rnd 5: *sc3, increase* repeat around (25)
Rnd 6: *sc4, increase* repeat around (30)
Rnd 7: *sc5, increase* repeat around (35)
Rnd 8: sc around in back loops only (35)
Rnd 9-13: sc around (35)
switch to green
Rnd 14-15: sc around (35)
switch to red
Rnd 16: sc around (35) Make a false bottom as I did with my cupcake and sew this in now. You also could start to stuff it then stuff as you go.
Rnd 17: *decrease, sc5* repeat around (30)
Rnd 18: sc around (30)
Rnd 19: *decrease, sc4* repeat around (25)
Rnd 20: sc around (25)
Rnd 21: *decrease, sc3* repeat around (20)
Rnd 22: sc around (20)
Rnd 23: *decrease, sc2* repeat around (15)
Rnd 24: sc around (15)
Cut thread. Sew to head.

Sleeves (make 2 in red yarn)

Rnd 1: 5 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3: *sc1, increase* repeat around (15)
Rnd 4: *sc2, increase* repeat around (20)
Rnd 5-7: sc around (20)
Rnd 8: *sc2, decrease* repeat around (15)
cut thread

Hands (make 2 in tan yarn)

Rnd 1: 5 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3-4: sc around (10)
Rnd 5: *decrease, sc3* repeat (8)
Rnd 6: sc around (8)
Rnd 7: sc in front loop of next st, ch 4, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc 2, sl st in original front loop, sc7 (8)
Rnd 8: sc around (sc in back loop behind thumb with the first st) (8)
Rnd 9-10: sc around (8)
Rnd 11: *decrease, sc2* repeat (6)
Rnd 12-14 sc around (6)
Cut thread. Slide hands deep into sleeves and sew them together then sew them to the body.

Here are the pictures of how to put on the beard.

If there are any errors in the pattern, please let me know. If you make him and have a picture, I would love to see it. If you like him, please comment. I don't get many comments on here and I appreciate feedback. Thanks!

Cupcake Tricks

2010-12-30T17:03:00.000-08:00

After you crochet a lot of things you start to develop your own tricks of the trade. Here are some of mine.

I really like to crochet cupcakes to give at birthday parties. Since I have made quite a few of them now, I have found different ways to make them better. If you are making a cupcake, here are a few of my tricks to use. First, birthday cupcakes need a candle. Here is a candle pattern:

Candle:
Use two strands of yarn and an f hook
sc 5 in a circle
sc around until you get the height of candle you want. I sc around 5 times.

Flame:
I used a yellow fur yarn to make it look like flames.
sc 5 in a circle
sc 4, decrease 1
Cut yarn and weave it through the remaining stitches to make a point. Sew it to the top of the candle. Sew the candle to the top of the cupcake.

I like to use this cupcake pattern on Bittersweet. You could use any crochet cupcake pattern though.

My second trick is, a stiff bottom. I want my cupcake to stand upright, even after lots of use. Using plastic lids from butter tubs I cut out two circles to fit the bottom of the cupcake. You could use any plastic lids, like the ones on top of nuts or whipped topping. Make a second bottom from the cupcake pattern. Tack the second bottom on top of the lids to the sides of the cupcake. This will keep the stiff bottom in place and help the cupcake stand upright.

My third trick is a rattle. I like to give these cupcakes to little babies when they turn one. Little babies like rattles so I add a rattle to the cupcake. My rattle is a cat toy sew into a little bag of fabric. I put it in the fabric in case it breaks. I don't want plastic to stick out of the cupcake and poke the cute baby.

My final trick is I use scrap pieces of yarn to fill my cupcake (or any of my amigurumi). This way I feel like I am not wasting any of my thread. I keep all of the little pieces of yarn in a little bag so they are convenient for stuffing into my next project.

Here is a cupcake I made a long time ago without my 'tricks'. You can see it has been well played with.

Here is my new cupcake.

The stiff bottom

The cat rattle

The colored filling.

Do you have any tricks you use when crocheting? I would love to hear about them.

Cardinal

2010-12-22T07:30:00.000-08:00

I have always thought about making one of these. Now I have! This one is little. (just right to hang on the tree or set within its branches)

Head:
Rnd 1: sc 4 in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (8)
Rnd 3: sc around (8)
Rnd 4: 2 sc in next sc 7 (9)
Rnd 5: sc 8 then 2 sc in next sc (10)
Rnd 6: 2 sc in next sc, sc 9 (11)
Rnd 7: sc 12, 2 sc in next sc (12)
Rnd 8: switch to black, sc 6, switch to red, sc 6 (12)
Rnd 9: sc 1, switch to black, sc 4, switch to red, sc 7 (12)
cut thread, leave tail to sew to body
I did a few stitches in the crest of the head to make it curve a little bit.

Body:
Rnd 1: sc 6 in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (12)
Rnd 3: *sc 1, sc 2 in next sc* repeat around (18)
Rnd 4: *sc 2, sc 2 in next sc* repeat around (24)
Rnd 5-7: sc around (24)
Rnd 8: sc 1 in front loop, ch 8, sl st in 2nd ch from hook, sc 1, dc 5, sl st in original front loop, sc 23 (24)
Rnd 9: *sc 2, decrease* repeat around (18)
Rnd 10: *sc 1, decrease* repeat around (12)
Rnd 11: decrease around (6)
Cut thread and weave through to close up hole.
Fold tail in half and sew together two sides.

Wings: (make 2)
Rnd 1: 5 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around
Rnd 3: dc 3, sc 1, sl st 5. Cut thread leave a tail to sew to body.

Put eyes in head. Sew the head to the body. Sew the wings on. Then make the beak.

Beak:
I tried to make a bunch of beaks and they were all too big, so instead I used orange yarn and wove it in over and over through the face until it was beak-like. Experiment until you get the perfect beak for your bird.

This is what the body looks like with the tail unfolded (I haven't finished the last round or stuffed or sewed it up yet in these photos)

And the tail folded

Ninja

2010-12-20T21:12:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the long wait. I have made a bunch of versions of this one and finally settled on a pattern to put on here. I hope you like it. My boys want me to do some in orange and blue and white and on and on. My little girl wants me to make a pink ninja. I think I prefer the black though.

Use an f hook throughout.

Head:
Rnd 1: sc 5 in a circle
Rnd 2: sc 2 in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3: *sc 1 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (15)
Rnd 4: *sc 2 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (20)
Rnd 5: *sc 3 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (25)
Rnd 6: *sc 4 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (30)
Rnd 7: *sc 5 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (35)
Rnd 8: *sc 6 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (40)
Rnd 9: *sc 7 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (45)
Rnd 10-14: sc around (45)
Rnd 15: Switch to tan and sc 15 in back loops only, switch to black and sc 14, sc next st in front loop only, ch 6, sl st in 2nd ch from hook, sc in next st, dc in next 2 st, sc in next st, sl st in beginning st, sc in next st on rnd in both loops, sc in next st in front loop only, ch 6, sl st in 2nd ch from hook, sc in next st, dc in next 2 st, sc in next st, sl st in beginning st, sc 13 (45)
Rnd 16-18: Switch to tan and sc 15, switch to black and sc 30 (use back hoops behind ties for Rnd 16) (45)
Rnd 19-22: sc around (45)
Rnd 23: *decrease then sc 7* repeat around (40)
Rnd 24: *decrease then sc 6* repeat around (35)
Rnd 25: *decrease then sc 5* repeat around (30)
Rnd 26: *decrease then sc 4* repeat around (25)
Rnd 27: *decrease then sc 3* repeat around (20)
Cut thread leaving a long tail for sewing. Put in eyes and stuff.

Nose:
Rnd 1: sc 5 in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3: dc 3, sc 2, dc 3, sc 2 (10)
Cut thread and sew to face.

Body:
Rnd 1: sc 5 in a circle
Rnd 2: sc 2 in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3: *sc 1 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (15)
Rnd 4: *sc 2 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (20)
Rnd 5: *sc 3 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (25)
Rnd 6: *sc 4 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (30)
Rnd 7: *sc 5 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (35)
Rnd 8-22: sc around (35)
Rnd 23: *decrease then sc 5* repeat around (30)
Rnd 24: *decrease then sc 4* repeat around (25)
Rnd 25: *decrease then sc 3* repeat around (20)
Rnd 26-28: sc around (20)
Cut thread and stuff.

Legs: (make 2)
Rnd 1: 6 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (12)
Rnd 3: *sc 1 then sc 2 in next sc* repeat around (18)
Rnd 4: *sc 2 then sc 2 in next sc* repeat around (24)
Rnd 5-12: sc around (24)
Rnd 13: *decrease then sc 2* repeat around (18)
Rnd 14-18: sc around (18)
Cut thread leaving a tail to sew with and stuff.

Arms: (make 2)
Rnd 1: sc 6 in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (12)
Rnd 3: *sc 1 then sc 2 in next st* repeat around (18)
Rnd 4-7: sc around (18)
Rnd 8: *sc 1 then decrease* repeat around (12)
Rnd 9-18: sc around (12)
Cut thread, stuff and leave tail to sew to body.

Thumbs: (make 2)
Rnd 1: sc 3 in a circle
Rnd 2: sc 2 in each sc around (6)
Rnd 3: sc around (6)
Rnd 4: decrease 1 then sc 4 (5)
Cut thread and leave a tail to sew to hand.

Belt:
Use a thick yarn and loop it around him and tie it or crochet a thick chain and wrap it around him. I just used a dowel for a staff. If you have a little play sword it would look great too.

Robots Can Be Cuddly

2010-11-22T11:19:00.000-08:00

Christmas is soon so I am making presents for my boys. Here is the first. I am thinking of making a car for him to drive around in. He seems like he needs a car even though he does have rocket shoes.

Use an f hook throughout.

Head: (blue)
Rnd 1: 5 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3: *sc 1 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (15)
Rnd 4: *sc 2 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (20)
Rnd 5: *sc 3 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (25)
Rnd 6: *sc 4 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (30)
Rnd 7: *sc 5 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (35)
Rnd 8: *sc 6 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (40)
Rnd 9: *sc 7 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (45)
Rnd 10-16: sc around (45) sl st last st, cut off thread leave a tail to sew.

Bottom of head: (blue)
Do same as for head but stop at round 9. cut thread.

Bobin:
Start with red thread
Rnd 1: 5 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3-5: sc around (10)
Rnd 6: decrease around (5) switch to grey
Rnd 7-9: sc around
Cut thread and leave tail to sew on head.

Body: (blue)
Same as for head do rounds 1-9
Rnd 10-29: sc around (45)
Cut thread and leave a tail to sew bottom on.

Bottom of body: (grey)
Same as for bottom of head. do rounds 1-9 from head.

Neck: (grey)
Rnd 1: 6 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (12)
Rnd 3: *sc 1 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (18)
Rnd 4: *sc 2 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (24)
Rnd 5-9: sc around (24) cut thread and leave tail for sewing.

Arms: (make 2)
Start with grey
Rnd 1: 5 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3: *sc 1 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (15)
Rnd 4-6: sc around (15)
Rnd 7: *decrease, then sc 1* repeat around (10) Switch to blue
Rnd 8-15: sc around (10)

Feet: (make 2 blue, 2 grey)
Rnd 1: 5 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3: *sc 1 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (15)
Rnd 4: *sc 2 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (20)
Rnd 5: *sc 3 then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (25)
Rnd 6-10: sc around (25)
sl st last st and cut thread and leave tail for sewing.

Fire (bottom of feet): (make 2)
Rnd 1: 8 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (16)
Rnd 3: 2 dc in each sc around (32)
Rnd 4: 1 sc, sl st next st. cut thread.

Buttons: (make 6)
Rnd 1: 4 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: sl st. cut thread, leave a tail for sewing.

Directions:
Sew the bobin to the head. Put eyes in the head and stuff the head lightly. Sew bottom onto the head.
Sew buttons on the body. Sew arms on the body. Squash the top of the body down and tack it in place. Sew rounded end of neck to the body. Stuff neck and sew head on.
Lightly stuff grey feet. Sew in red bottoms. Stretch blue feet over grey feet and tack them to it. Sew feet to grey bottom of the body. Stuff body. Sew bottom of the body to the body. I inset the bottom a few rows so it sinks in a bit.

If there are any problems with the pattern please let me know through the comments so I can fix them.

Colorful Tribbles

2010-11-07T16:16:00.000-08:00

I purchased a bag of miscellaneous yarn awhile back and in it was a bunch of fur yarn. I don't usually use it because it is so hard to work with. It ends up making big fuzzy knots and seems unusable for anything small. I have figured out a way to use it though that doesn't test my sanity. I am glad because it is such fun and interesting yarn I would hate for it to go to waste. The only way to use it for amigurumi is as a coat over something else so the stuffing doesn't end up falling out. You see the thing is to use fun fur you have to use a big hook to make it work and even then you still miss stitches. It is usually okay to miss stitches though because the nature of the fur hides them. So here is my version of a tribble or as my children call them fuzzies.

Body (use an f hook)

Rnd 1: 5 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3: *1 sc then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (15)
Rnd 4: *2 sc then 2 sc in next sc* repeat around (20)
Rnd 5-7: sc around (20)
Rnd 8: *2 sc, decrease* repeat around (15)
Rnd 9: *1 sc, decrease* repeat around (10)
Put in eyes and stuff. I like to stuff them with beans for weight.
Rnd 10: decrease around (5)
Cut thread. Weave through and close hole. Hide ends.

Fun Fur Coat (I used a K hook and crocheted very loosely)

Rnd 1: 5 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3: 2 dc in each sc around (20)
Rnd 4: 17 dc, sc 2 and sl st last st
Cut thread and leave a long end to sew the fur coat onto the body.

Wrap the fur coat over the body and pull it up and just leave a little space for the eyes and sew it on. I use the fluffiest side since you can't see the stitches.
The first few I made I decided to give them feet and ears and tails. Be creative and make strange fluffy animals, or just leave them as a simple ball.

Signing with Crochet

2010-10-15T16:51:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I think I am way too addicted to crochet.

Use an f hook.
Hand:
Rnd 1: sc 6 in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around (12)
Rnd 3: *sc 1 then sc 2 in next st*, repeat around (18)
Rnd 4: *sc 2 then sc 2 in next st*, repeat around (24)
Rnd 5: *sc 3 then sc 2 in next st*, repeat around (30)
Rnd 6-10: sc around (30)
Rnd 11: *decrease then sc 6*, repeat three times then sc 4 (26)
Rnd 12: sc around (26)
Rnd 13: *decrease sc 11*, repeat (24)
Rnd 14: sc around (24)
Rnd 15: *sc 2, decrease*, repeat around (18)
Rnd 16: *sc 1, decrease*, repeat around (12)
Rnd 17-21: sc around (12)
Stuff very lightly

Thumb:
Rnd 1: sc 5 in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around (10)
Rnd 3-9: sc around (10) cut thread

Fingers:
Rnd 1: sc 4 in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around (10)
Rnd 3-9 sc around (10) cut thread for pinkie or keep going for other fingers.

Rnd 10-13: sc around (10) cut thread for index finger or keep going for other fingers.

Rnd 14: sc around (10) cut thread for ring finger or keep going for last finger.

Rnd 15: sc around (10) cut thread for middle finger.
I didn't stuff any of the fingers or the thumb.

Sew pieces together. Sew middle two fingers down to hand. You could put in on a stick to wave it around. I decided I wanted it framed.

Update: I decided to reframe my hand. I had an old broken clock so I took out the clock parts and the glass and cut a circle of fabric and cardstock. I sewed the hand to the fabric and glued the fabric to the cardstock and then I put it into the clock frame. It goes great in my round frame gallery. I envision it being a cute decoration for Valentine's day with red fabric.

Ghost Puppet

2010-10-15T16:48:00.000-07:00

Use an f hook
Rnd 1: 5 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3: decrease one st and sc 8 (9)
Rnd 4: sc 4, decrease, sc 3 (8)
Rnd 5: *dc 3 in next st, sc 1 then dc 2* repeat 3 times around then sl st

T-Rex

2010-09-25T15:08:00.000-07:00

T-Rex
use an f hook throughout
Head
Rnd 1: 5 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (10)
Rnd 3: *1 sc and then 2 sc in next st* repeat around (15) Start stuffing
Rnd 4: *2 sc and then 2 sc in next st* repeat around (20)
Rnd 5: *3 sc and then 2 sc in next st* repeat around (25)
Rnd 6: *4 sc and then 2 sc in next st* repeat around (30)
Rnd 7: *5 sc and then 2 sc in next st* repeat around (35)
Rnd 8-15: sc around (35)
Rnd 16: *decrease then sc 5* repeat around (30)
Rnd 17: *decrease then sc 4* repeat around (25) Put in eyes, Sew on mouth and nostrils
Rnd 18: *decrease then sc 3* repeat around (20)
Rnd 19: *decrease then sc 2* repeat around (15)
Rnd 20: *decrease then sc 1* repeat around (10)
Cut thread and leave long end to sew to body. Finish stuffing.

Body
Rnd 1: 3 in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st (6)
Rnd 3: sc around
Rnd 4: 2 sc in next st then sc 5 (7)
Rnd 5: 2 sc in next st then sc 6 (8)
Rnd 6: 2 sc in next st then sc 7 (9)
Rnd 7: 2 sc in next st then sc 8 (10)
Rnd 8: 2 sc in next st then sc 9 (11)
Rnd 9: 2 sc in next st then sc 10 (12) stuff as you go
Rnd 10: *2 sc in next st, sc 5* repeat around (14)
Rnd 11: *2 sc in next st, sc 6* repeat around (16)
Rnd 12: *2 sc in next st, sc 7* repeat around (18)
Rnd 13: *2 sc in next st, sc 8* repeat around (20)
Rnd 14: *2 sc in next st, sc 9* repeat around (22)
Rnd 15: *2 sc in next st, sc 10* repeat around (24)
Rnd 16: *2 sc in next st, sc 7* repeat around (27)
Rnd 17: *2 sc in next st, sc 8* repeat around (30)
Rnd 18: *2 sc in next st, sc 9* repeat around (33)
Rnd 19: *2 sc in next st, sc 10* repeat around (36)
Rnd 20-24: sc around (36)
Rnd 25: *decrease then sc 10* repeat around (33)
Rnd 26: sc around (33)
Rnd 27: *decrease then sc 9* repeat around (30)
Rnd 28: *decrease then sc 8* repeat around (27)
Rnd 29-30: sc around (27)
Rnd 31: decrease then sc around (26)
Rnd 32: decrease then sc around (25)
Rnd 33: decrease then sc around (24)
Rnd 34: decrease then sc around (23)
Rnd 35: decrease then sc around (22)
Rnd 36: *decrease then sc 4* repeat twice then sc 1 (17)
Rnd 37: *sc 3, decrease* repeat twice, then sc 2 (14)
Rnd 38: *sc 1, decrease* repeat three times, then sc 2 (10)
Cut thread and finish stuffing.

Feet (make 2)
Rnd 1: sc 8 in a circle
Rnd 2: sc 2 in every sc around (16)
Rnd 3: *sc 1 then sc 2 in next st* repeat around (24)
Rnd 4: sc around in back loops only (24)
Rnd 5: sc 3 *ch 3 sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc in next st, sl st in original st, sc in next 2 st* repeat 2 more times then sc rest of stitches (24)
Rnd 6: sc around (bend toes forward and stitch their base st with a sc as you go by them) (24)
Rnd 7: sc around (24)
Rnd 8: decrease, sc 7, decrease, sc rest of round (22)
Rnd 9-15: sc around
Rnd 16: decrease, sc 9, decrease, sc 9 (20)
Rnd 17-19: sc around
Cut thread and stuff.

Arms
Rnd 1: sc 5 in a circle
Rnd 2-7: sc around

On the body during the rounds vary where you increase and decrease to avoid getting lines in the stitching. For the convenience of writing the pattern I put all of the increases and decreases around the same spots. It is better to vary where they are within the round to give a better finished look. If you are ambitious you could make a bigger tail. I think if I make another one, I will. If there are any errors in the pattern, please let me know. It is the longest pattern I have posted so far, so it possibly might have errors. Thanks!

Simple Fish

2010-09-18T10:55:00.000-07:00

Fish
I used an E hook and thinner thread.
Rnd 1: 5 in a circle
Rnd 2: sc twice in each st around (10)
Rnd 3: *sc in first stitch then sc twice in next st* repeat around (15)
Rnd 4: *sc 2 then sc twice in next st* repeat around (20)
Rnd 5-7: sc around (20)
Rnd 8: *decrease first st, sc 9* then repeat (18)
Rnd 9: sc 3 then decrease then sc 8 then decrease then sc 3 (16)
Rnd 10: *decrease then sc 7 st* then repeat (14)
Rnd 11: sc 3 then decrease sc 4 decrease sc 3 (12)
Rnd 12: *decrease then sc 4* then repeat (10)
Put in eyes and stuff.
Rnd 13: decrease around (5)
Rnd 14: two sc in each st around (10)
Rnd 15: two sc in each st around (20)
Rnd 16-17: sc around (20)
sl st and leave a tail. Sew middle of tail together and sew up hole.

Pebbles
I used a funky yarn and did two circles to fit the bottom of my bowl.

Plant
Ch 30
Row 2: 2 sc in each st
Row 3: sc back along ch on the opposite side.
Weave wire through and sew to the pebbles. Hide ends of wire between layers of pebbles and string ends as well. Stitch the two pebble halves together. Use a toothpick to prop up the fish.

Mr. Bunny

2010-08-21T12:39:00.000-07:00

I saw this and re-created it with crochet.

Ears (make two)

Rnd 1: 6 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (12)
Rnd 3-10: sc around
Stuff

Tail

Rnd 1: 6 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (12)
Rnd 3-4: sc around
Doesn't need to be stuffed

Feet (make four)

Rnd 1: 8 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (16)
Rnd 3-4: sc around twice
To give weight and flatness to the feet I put small decorative glass stones in them before sewing them to the body.

Mustache (make two)

Rnd 1: 4 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: sc in next st then ch 5
sc in 2nd ch from hook
sc 6 along ch and into round, sl st in next st

Body

Rnd 1: 6 sc in a circle
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around (12)
Rnd 3: *sc then sc twice in next st* repeat around (18)
Rnd 4: *sc in next two st then sc twice in next st* repeat around (24)
Rnd 5: *sc in next three st then sc twice in next st* repeat around (30)
Rnd 6: *sc in next four st then sc twice in next st* repeat around (36)
Rnd 7-21: sc around
Rnd 22: *decrease then sc in next four st* repeat around (30)
Rnd 23: *sc in next three st then decrease* repeat around (24)
Rnd 24: *decrease then sc in next two st* repeat around (18)
Put in eyes, sew on mustache and ears. Stuff.
Rnd 25: *sc then decrease* around (12)
Rnd 26: decrease around (6)
Rnd 27: decrease once more then break thread and sew up hole.
Sew on tail and feet.

Yarn Cat

2010-07-18T19:28:00.001-07:00

Dedicated to my first follower.

use an f hook (larger or smaller depending on your finger size).
sc 6 in a circle
sc twice in each sc around (12)
ch 3
sc in 2nd ch from hook
sc in next st (on the round)
sc 4
ch 3
sc in 2nd ch fron the hook
sc in next st (on the round)
sc 8 around round
skip ear and sc in first st after ear
sc 3
skip ear and sc in first st after ear
sc 7
sc around (12)
decrease one st, sc 1, decrease one st, sc in next 4 st, decrease in next 2 st (8)
sc around for three rounds (8)
sc in next 2 st, slip stich, ch 10
sc in 2nd ch fron hook
2 sc in next st, 2 sc in next st, sc 6
slip stitch in original st
finish off and hide thread ends.
Sew tips of ears to top of head to make it look less mouse-like and more cat-like. Sew on eyes and nose and mouth. Steal three bristles from a broom and cut to size. Weave bristles through face.

Finger Puppet of the Sea

2010-05-02T17:39:00.000-07:00

First pattern... here goes:
Use an f hook (larger or smaller depending on your finger size).
5 sc in a circle.
sc twice in each sc around (10)
sc around for 2 rounds
decrease one st and sc in 8 (9)
sc in 4 decrease and sc in 4 (8)
sc around
*ch 8 then sc in second ch from the hook and sc 6 then sc in next st* do seven more times to make eight legs and then finish off and hide thread ends.
Sew on a smile and eyes.