Vickie Howell's Blog: Vickie Howell's Website, page 42
September 12, 2016
Ask Me Monday: How to Crochet a Triangle Shawl + NEW KIT!
How to Crochet a Triangle Shawl from the Top-center Out
Episode 45 of Ask Me Monday was a fun one because not only did I teach a cool way to crochet a triangle shape shawl, but I also announced my latest collaboration with Interweave on a collection of Yarncraft kits. You can see the full collection here, but scroll down to see the first one available.
Watch the full episode of Ask Me Monday now!
First Vickie Howell Yarncraft Kit Available Now!
Once you’ve watched the video for a tutorial on how to get started on the Torrance shawl you’ll be amazed at how a few stitches quickly form a triangle right before your eyes. Once you’re hooked, then nab a kit. Wear it as a layering piece for a perfect Fall addition to your wardrobe!
NEW KIT: The Torrance Triangle Shawl in Mrs. Crosby Satchel yarn. AS SEEN ON ASK ME MONDAY
As always, thanks for virtually hanging out with me. Be sure to tune in again next Monday for a new episode LIVE on Facebook.
Enjoy!
xx,
Vickie
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September 6, 2016
Super Size Your Scarf Knitting!
Knit Super Scarf
Today is the launch of the Craft Yarn Council‘s Super Scarf initiative, and I’m pleased as punch to be joining in on the festivities! Not only does it mean I had an excuse to knit-up one of the biggest (literally) trends for Fall/Winter, but for the first time I got to play with the new Size 17, Takumi Bamboo Circular needles. So. fun. But wait, there’s more! I’ve partnered up with the folks at WEBS to create a signature, Vickie Howell Color Collection in their new, Valley Yarns Super Bulky, and used it for this project — the first in this yarn yet, to be shown publicly! The collection is available for pre-order today!
Thanks to the magic of super bulky yarn and slick, comfortable circular needles, (Even though this project is knit straight, I highly recommend knitting it on Takumi Bamboo Circulars so that the cord can hold the bulk of the knit super scarf. Friends don’t let friends put too much strain on their knitting wrists!) this project offers huge results without a hefty time commitment. This means, pretty much anyone can join in on this fad.
(Psst…even if you don’t think you’ll wear one, a knit super scarf looks pretty amazing hanging on a wall as a work of art & craft!)
So go big. Go bold. Super-size your style by knitting a Super Scarf! Here’s how.
Super Size Scarf
Materials
Valley Yarns Super Bulky: Colors by Vickie Howell, in colors: (A) 8 balls Tiki Turquoise, and (B) 1 ball Moontower Mustard.
Size U.S. 17 Clover Takumi (any length) Circular Needle
Clover Amour Crochet Hook (for fringe)
Clover Jumbo Tapestry Needle
Takumi U.S. 17s in action!
Finished Measurements
10″/25.5 cm wide x 96″/244 cm long
Gauge
Approx 9 sts x 12 rows = 4″/10 cm in pattern stitch
Directions
With A, CO 23 sts.
Rows 1-2: Knit.
Row 3: K1, k to last stitch wrapping yarn twice around needle for each stitch, k1. (You’ll have almost double the loops on the needle at this point.)
Row 4: K1, * slip next 3 stitches knit-wise to right-hand needle dropping extra loops, pass these 3 stitches back to left-hand needle, [k1, p1, k1] through 3 stitches together; rep from * to last stitch, k1.
These 4 rows make the Little Crown Stitch pattern. Click below to watch a recording of this week’s Facebook Live stream, Ask Me Monday, to see how to knit the Little Crown stitch on Takumi Bamboo Size 17s to make a knit Super Scarf
Rep these 4 rows until piece measures 60″/152 cm
Cut A. Join B.
Stripe sequence:
With B, work two, 4 row repeats.
Cut B. Rejoin A.
With A, work one, 4 row repeat.
Cut A. Rejoin B.
Repeat last 12 rows, once more.
Cut A. Rejoin B.
With B, work two, 4 row repeats.
Cut B. Rejoin A.
With a, repeat 4 row stitch pattern until piece measures just short of 96″/244 cm long.
Knit last two rows.
BO.
Finishing
Make Braided Fringe: (Make 10)
Cut 3, 20′′/51 cm, strands of yarn. Holding strands together, fold in half. Insert crochet hook through RS of scarf edge; lay yarn at the folded point over the hook. Pull yarn through, from back to front, just enough to create loop. Set aside hook and use hands to fold the loop over the edge of the project, pulling the ends of the yarn through the loop. Pull tight-ish.
You’ll now have 6 strands hanging (3 stands folded). Separate into 3 groups of 2 strands; braid. Knot off. Trim and fray ends.
Repeat process, attaching 5 fringe bunches evenly across each end of scarf.
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Tuesday Morning Scarf Pattern
Tuesday Morning: Yarn Score Scarf PatternThere’s nothing like a store score. You know what I’m talking about—that unexpected find that makes your heart race! These are gems that Tuesday Morning is known for, especially when it comes to home decor, housewares and toys. Did you know, though that those little bits of bliss aren’t only for the interior design enthusiasts amongst us? Oh no, my stitcher friends, there are also magical finds for those of the fiber-loving persuasion. That’s right, knitters, I’m talking yarn. And not just standard craft yarn—although they carry that, too—but higher end, super merino wools, cottons and novelty blends. This means that whether you’re planning on yarn wrapping a wreath or knitting a luxury accessory, the Craft Supplies section is a great place to visit before you start!
I recently teamed up with Tuesday Morning to play with some of the aforementioned, gorgeous yarn. The result: a head-turning scarf project that can be made as unique as you are by simply, subbing out yarns for the ones that speak to you.
Make it!
Read more and get the free pattern on the store Blog, then get thee to Tuesday Morning to score yarn for your scarf!
Enjoy!
xx,
Vickie
P.S. Don’t forget to tag @vickiehowell and @tuesdaymorning with photos of your finished, Yarn Score Scarf!
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September 5, 2016
Ask Me Monday: How to Use Curved Double Pointed Needles
This week’s Facebook Live stream, Ask Me Monday was brought to you by Makers’ Mercantile, an online stop for gorgeous craft materials, tools, and gifts.
How to Use Curved Double Pointed Needles(knitting)
Episode 44 of Ask Me Monday focused on a new tool to the knitting world: Neko Curved Double Pointed Needles (cdpns). Since knitting’s been around for longer than anyone’s been able to specifically pinpoint thus far, the amount of “newness” in the instruments category is pretty rare. Sure, every generation reinvents the craft — reclaiming it with modern vim and vigor — but still, it’s two sticks and some yarn. The Neko needles, however through a curve ball to the industry. Or rather, a set of curved needles.
What’s the benefit of using them them?
CDPNS are meant for projects requiring to be knit in the round, and act as sort of a hybrid between traditional double-pointed needle knitting, and the magic loop method. The main benefits I see to using curved double pointed needles are: 1) there’s no worry of stitches dropping off the needles as they often do with straight dpns, and 2) the jog ladder at the beginning of each round that occurs with both the magic loop method and dpns, simply doesn’t with curved double pointed needles.
Watch the video for a tutorial on how to cast on, divide stitches, and knit on Neko Curved Double Pointed Needles! Then, head over to MakersMercantile.com to nab some needles of your own. They’re offering FREE SHIPPING on your entire, crafty order with purchase of two or more sets (exp 9/12.) Just use code: ASKMEMONDAY at checkout!
As always, thanks for spending a little part of your week with me. Be sure to tune in again next Monday for a new episode LIVE on Facebook.
Neko Curved Double Pointed Needles, Size US 6.
Enjoy!
xx,
Vickie
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September 2, 2016
A Conversation with Duct Tape Bags Author, Richela Fabian Morgan
This week on the CRAFT*ish podcast, I spoke with artist and “Duct Tape Bags” author, Richela Fabian Morgan. They talked about using a hardware store medium to create fine art, why she loves designing bags, and about the debate between art vs. craft.
Listeners can find CRAFT-ish on iTunes, Soundcloud, or Stitcher. Then go to the Show Notes page to see photos of a few of Richela’s bag designs, artwork and to enter to win a copy of her latest book!
Enjoy!
–Vickie
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August 30, 2016
Ask Me Monday: How to Little Crown Stitch (knitting)
How to Little Crown Stitch (knitting)
This week’s Facebook Live stream, Ask Me Monday, was jam packed! I started the episode sharing sponsor, Clover Neeedlecraft’s new, Size 17 and 19 Takumi circular needles. Then I answered viewer questions about circular projects to knit, how to calculate yarn amounts for the Long Tail Cast-on, and how to adjust one’s gauge.
Next up, I talked about the upcoming Craft Yarn Council’s #SuperScarf initiative, and showed how to knit the Little Crown Stitch that will be used in my upcoming Super Scarf pattern contribution.
We wrapped things up with an exclusive announcement about a new, product partnership I’m a part of, and gave the needle giveaway details.
Watch the video for more info! Then, tune in next Monday for a new episode LIVE on Facebook.
Enjoy!
xx,
Vickie
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August 26, 2016
A Conversation with Made by Rae Blog Founder, Rae Hoekstra
This week I had the pleasure of meeting Rae Hookstra, sewing blogger and the founder of the wildly successful sewing website, Made by Rae. Rae and I swapped stories about how leaving our former careers –hers as a Physics teacher; mine in the entertainment industry — to focus on being moms inadvertently lead us to start craft-based websites that would ultimately redefine our professional paths. We also discussed how the definition of feminism as we were taught it in the 80’s has evolved a bit, and about how her community of sewing followers has greatly influenced the type of business she’s chosen to nurture.
I found Rae to be a creative being who’s also a smart businesswoman, a parent who seems to have her priorities straight, and an interesting person who’s open to hearing and sharing ideas. One of the main reasons I started the CRAFT-ish podcast was so I can pick the brains of other creative entrepreneurs while also sharing the knowledge that came out of our conversations. An the interviewer, this episode was definitely one that I walked away from enriched so I’m excited for listeners to reap the same, human-experience rewards.
Listeners can find CRAFT-ish on iTunes, Soundcloud, or Stitcher. Then go to the Show Notes page to see photos of a few of Rae’s most popular pattern designs, and get links to her shop, sew alongs and more!
Thanks to our sponsor, Makers’ Mercantile who would like to celebrate sewist, Made by Rae by giving a 20% off discount on all Stenzo Fabric on their website. Stenzo Textiles produces high quality, digitally printed fabric from the Netherlands. Choose between Cotton Jersey and Cotton poplin. This fabric will look fantastic with any of Made by Rae’s patterns. Use code: VICKIEMAKES at check out — offer good through September 8th.
Enjoy!
–Vickie
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August 19, 2016
CRAFT*ish: A Conversation with Illustrator, Travis Nichols
This week on the CRAFT*ish Podcast, Vickie talks with guest illustrator (Sponge Bob, Uglydoll, etc.) and author, Travis Nichols. He talks about the effect that the Austin Craft Mafia had on his career, how artists can protect their work, and about his journey from lifelong crafter to professional maker.
Listen on iTunes, Soundcloud, or Stitcher, then go to the Show Notes page to see photos of Travis’ work.
Enjoy!
–Vickie
August 15, 2016
Ask Me Monday (Facebook Live): How to Magic Loop (knitting)
This week’s Facebook Live stream (aka “Ask Me Monday”) tutorial came from a frequent request from viewers! I showed how to do the Magic Loop method for knitting smaller pieces in the round, using a long circular needle instead of double-pointed needles. I also answered a few viewers knit, crochet and craft questions. Click below to watch the recorded broadcast, and tune into Ask Me Monday streams live every Monday on my Facebook page at 10amPT/1pmET.
Missed past Ask Me Monday streams? No problem! You can watch them anytime on my Youtube Channel or by clicking on the “Videos” tab on my Facebook page. Enjoy! –VH
August 12, 2016
Crochet a Market Tote Bag!
Where I live in Austin, disposable plastic grocery bags have been outlawed, so I bring my own bags with me when I shop. From heavy duty paper and plastic, to canvas and nylon, there are of course countless reusable options to purchase. But, dear readers, we are stitchers — so why not make them ourselves? This crochet tote works up quickly using a chunky cotton yarn, and an Amour size “L” hook. This means means you can easily make several for yourself so you’ll be ready at all times to hold a serious amount of wares! This tote makes a great gift, too for for friends and co-workers — so don’t forget to bookmark it for the holidays! So grab your Clover hook, and get crocheting — in no time this project will be in the bag!
Materials
Chunky, 100 % cotton yarn (I used this), in Colors A (approx. 200 yds.), and B (approx. 100 yds)
Size U.S. L (8 mm) Clover Amour Hook
Clover Jumbo Tapestry Needle
Finished Measurements
18″ x 14 1/2″/46 cm x 37 cm
Gauge
8 hdcs x 6 rows = 4″/10 cm
Directions
BODY
Ch 60. Join rnd with a sl st in the first chain, taking care not to twist.
Rnds 1-9: With A, ch 2 (counts as hdc), hdc in next st and every st around. Join rnd with a sl st in the top of beg ch.
(Need some crochet stitch refreshers? Click on my video tutorials below!)
Cut A, join B.
Rnd 10: Ch 1, sc in next st and every st around. Join rnd with a sl st in the top of beg ch.
Rnd 11: Ch 3, dc in next st and every st around. Join rnd with a sl st in the top of beg ch.
Repeat Rnds 10-11, 6 times more.
Next Rnd: Ch 1, sc in next st and every st around. Join rnd with a sl st in the top of beg ch.
Repeat last rnd, 2 times more.
HANDLE
Rnd 1: Sl st in next 7 sts, ch 1 (counts as sc), sc in next 15 sts, ch 15, sk 15, sc 15, ch 15, sk 8 sts PLUS 7 sl sts from beginning. Join rnd with a sl st in beg ch.
Rnd 2: Ch 2, hdc in all sts (including ch-15) around. Join rnd with a sl st in beg ch.
Join A.
Rnd 3: With A, repeat Rnd 2.
Cut A.
Rnd 4: With B, ch 1, sc in next st and every st around.
Fasten off.
Finishing
Flip bag inside out. Join a through both widths of fabric at corner. Ch 1, sc across to seam up bottom. Fasten off.
Weave in ends. Enjoy!
