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September 26, 2022
Crochet Skull Mug Rug
Crochet Skull Mug RugThis week on Ask Me Monday, I show how to work the hdc tapestry crochet skull motif called for in my Dead Man’s Party cowl pattern, plus offer of a free project for a Crochet Skull Mug Rug. Halloween, let’s do this!
This episode of Ask Me Monday is sponsored by Knitter’s Pride/ KnitPro
Featured Knitter’s Pride Products: Zing, Waves & Ginger Crochet Hooks
Crochet Skull Mug Rug
MATERIALS
Mystic Fiber Co Enchanted Worsted (100% superwash merino; approx 183 yds/168 m, 3.5 oz/100 g), 1 hank each in colors:
(A) Black Cats, and (B) Fairytale Pumpkin — or equivalent worsted-weight yarn.
Size U.S. I-9/5.5 mm hook — or size needed to obtain gauge
Tapestry needle
Removable stitch marker
FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
4 1/2″ x 5″, excluding ball fringe
GAUGE
14 hdc x 11 rows = 4″/10 cm
NOTES
When working from chart, read RS rows from right to left, and WS rows from left to right.The body of this project is worked in Color A, and the skull motif and edgings are worked in Color B.
Color changing tips:
Change color when completing the last stitch before the stitch in the new color as follows: work hdc until 3 loops are left on hook, YO with new color and draw through 3 loops on hook, proceed in new color.
I’ve found that the color work slants a little less when, as the piece faces you, on the RH side of the motif you YARN UNDER, instead of YO (yarn over) during the switch over to the new color. On the LH side switch over, the usual YO works.
DIRECTIONS
With A, ch 17.
Row 1 (RS): Hdc in 3rd ch from hook, and to end. Turn. — 15 hdc
Row 2 (WS): Ch 1 (doesn’t count as st), hdc in every st across.
Join B when beginning charted skull.
Rows 3-13: Work Rows 1-11 of chart.
Cut A.
Row 14: Ch 1, hdc in every st across.
Row 15: Ch 1, hdc in every st across.; joining B in the last step of the last st.
Cut A.
Edging:
Row 14: With B, ch 1, hdc in every st across.
Row 15 (ball fringe): *Ch 5, [YO and insert hook into third ch from hook, YO, pull through 2 loops on hook] 4 times, (5 loops on hook) YO, pull through all loops on hook (first bobble made)**; ch 3, rep from * to ** (second bobble made); sl st into base of first bobble (this will connect both bobbles to create a ball); ch 3, sk next st, sc in next st; rep from *, ending with sl st in last st.
Fasten off.
Flip the piece over, and repeat the Edging process (Rows 14-15) for the opposite side.
FINISHING
Weave in ends, block if necessary.
Use those skills for a larger project, the Deadman’s Party Cowl!
Looking for more Halloween Coasters? Here are two more!
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September 19, 2022
Fringed Halloween Hangers
Fringed Halloween HangersSpooked by an overabundance of scrap yarn? This week on Ask Me Monday, I show how to use it to embellish cute Halloween Hangers that are now available in my YarnYAY! shop. Add fringe, knit or crochet edgings, or sew-on swatches to fiber-up these dastardly little decorations.
This episode is brought to you by:
Fringed Halloween Hangers
Knitted FringeUsing sport-weight yarn and size 5/3.75 mm needles, CO 20 sts (or desired multiple of 4).
Row 1: *K2, YO, k2tog; rep from * to end.
Repeat Row 1 until piece measures 2 3/4″, or desired length/
Note: The length will actually be the width of the piece as the firing will be dropped from a side edge, and not the bottom.)
BO 11 sts. Fasten of yarn.
Drop remaining stitches, unraveling them to create finger loops. Trim and press with a flat iron at a very low heat, if desired.
Half-Hitch KnotJust plain ol’ fringe.
Cut two strands of yarn twice the length if the desired fringe. Hild the two strands together and fold them in half. Using a crochet hook (a Size US D/3.25 mm fits easily through the hanger holes) pull the loop created by folded strands through one of the holes. Set hook aside. pish tails through the loop and tighten. Repeat for remaining holes.
Applied i-Cord LoopsFind the tutorial HERE.
Looking for more Halloween treats? Check out the YarnYAY! Limited Edition Halloween Box!
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September 12, 2022
Bargello Knit Stitch In-the-Round
Bargello Knit Stitch In-the-RoundThis week on Ask Me Monday, I show how to work the Bargello Knit Stitch in-the-round. This stitch pattern packs a lot of visual punch, with relatively low effort. II love that!
Give it a go with the swatch below, then dive into a Bargello Knit Stitch project by making my Lo-Fi Cowl (see below). Enjoy!
This episode of Ask Me Monday is sponsored by Knitter’s Pride/ KnitPro
Featured Knitter’s Pride Products: Mindful Collection
Bargello Knit Stitch In-the-Round: Swatch it!
Notes:
Due to the small circumference of this swatch, you’ll need to use dpns, or a long circular needle & the Magic Loop method.For striped effect, change colors every 4 rnd repeat.CO 28 sts. Join rnd, taking care not to twist.
Setup Rnds:
Knit 2 Rnds.
Next Rnd: *K3, k1 wrapping yarn around needle twice; rep from * around.
Rnd 1: *K1, ML, k1, sl1 wyib dropping extra wrap; rep from * around.
Rnd 2: *K3, sl1 wyib; rep from * around.
Rnd 3: Knit.
Rnd 4: *K3, k1 wrapping yarn around needle twice; rep from * around.
Repeat Rnds 1-4 until pice measures 4″/10 cm from CO edge.
Last Rnd: Knit.
BO.
Bargello Knit Stitch In-the-Round: Make it!
Lo-Fi Knit Cowl: Free pattern with purchase of YarnYAY!’s September featured yarn, Kelbourne Woolens Germantown
Let’s hang! Knit with me every month! Subscribe to my YarnYAY! monthly boxes.
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September 3, 2022
YarnYAY! September Box #53
It’s September, which in maker language means the kick-off to crafting season (which is really more ceremonial than anything, because, come on, we never stop making things)! For many of us, this time of year also marks back to school which means the kids are outta da house so maybe, amidst all of the other things you have to do, you’ll get a little more time to knit and crochet. The YarnYA! September Box is here for you. Here’s what’s inside!
Germantown | Kelbourne Woolens
An icon of American craft, Germantown is made of 100% U.S.-grown wool. It’s a lofty yarn with gorgeous stitch definition. Meet your new go-to yarn for fall/winter projects!
Kelbourne Woolens is a Philly-based company, owned by Courtney Kelley & Kate Gagnon-Osbourn. Learn more at: kelbournewoolens.com
Beanie Patterns | Designs by Vickie Howell & Toni Lipsey
Whether you’re headed back-to-school, or just happy to be back to cooler weather, this month’s hats are for you!
The knit version, designed by Vickie, is worked in a library carpet-inspired pattern. The crochet beanie by Toni is designed in a rich, classic, textured stitch reminiscent of your favorite nubby wool coat.
Follow and support our Fall/Winter Designer in Residence, Toni Lipsey on Instagram: @tlyarncrafts
Cross-stitch Bookmark Kit | Avlea Embroidery
Learn to cross-stitch, then mark your spot in your favorite pattern book with this folk art-inspired, custom bookmark kit.
Avlea Embroidery is owned by Krista West and is based in Salem, OR. Learn more at: avleaembroidery.com
Notebook | Studio Portmanteau
Take note of your knitting & crochet ideas with our YarnYAY! logo, kraft notebook!
Studio Portmanteau is a woman-owned, Oregon-based business. Learn more studioportmanteau.com
The post YarnYAY! September Box #53 appeared first on Vickie Howell.
August 29, 2022
Block Builder Club 2: Electric Blockaloo
Hey there friends, followers, and fellow maker-compatriots! We loved bringing the first Block Builder Club 12-month experience to our knitting & community so much, that we’d love to do it again (but with a new spin). We’re excited to start the next season of BBC, which we’re calling Block Builder Club 2: Electric Blockaloo. (For those over 40, you’re welcome. For those under, Google Breakin’ 2.) This week on Ask Me Monday I fill you in on what to look forward to, and why YOU should join a block of the month club!
Here’s the scoop!
WHEN:
Beginning Sept 1st, 2022, every month for 12 months, you’ll get an eBooklet with pattern and tutorial info for that month’s block. Start and stop anytime you want, though!
WHAT:
Our BBC2 knitting theme is: Lace & Texture. The crochet theme is: Eyelets & Angles. For this session, we’ll make a 10″ square each month for a year. At the end have twelve more patterns in your stitch arsenal and a beautiful collection of swatches!
PROJECT:
Feel like turning your swatches into a wearable history of your stitching year? As the year comes to an end, we’ll show how to seam together and embellish your swatches into a drapy, patchwork wrap!
SUPPLIES:
We’ll be using Vickie Howell Montoya Merino Light (100% superwash merino; 300 yds/100gr), or any sport-weight yarn from your stash or of your choosing. Depending on the craft and the stitch, you’ll need between 50-75 gr (150- 225 yds) per square. We’ll stock our colors all year long, though, so don’t feel like you have to go all-in at once! This brings us to colors.
We’ve chosen two featured palettes: Neon/Neutral (in colors Leche, Meow Wolf, & Roswell) and Green/Blue (in colors Boulder, Malachite, & UtopiaFest). Along the way, we’ll also be giving subscribers early access to special, speckled/variegated shades of Montoya Merino Light created exclusively to match these palettes.
Neon/Neutral Palette
Blue/Green Palette
For most, if not all of the knit squares, we’ll use Size US 5/3.75 mm needles; for crochet a 7/4.5 mm hook — or size needed to obtain gauge.
WHY:
Because, knitting and crochet.
Also, though, the YarnYAY! Block Builder Clubs are a great way to learn new stitches and techniques, incorporate a little stitching time into your month, hang out with your fiber community, and thanks to the current patchwork garment craze, walk away with an on-trend wrap. Handmade huzzah!
All this for just $6/month!
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August 22, 2022
Stretches and Mindfulness for Knitters
Stretches and Mindfulness for KnittersThis week on Ask Me Monday, we pressed pause on our usual tutorials to take a moment to focus (literally) on our minds and bodies.
Take a moment for yourself, watch this video and relax, and don’t forget to bookmark this one for any time you need it!
This episode of Ask Me Monday is sponsored by Knitter’s Pride/ KnitPro
Featured Knitter’s Pride Products: Mindful Collection
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August 15, 2022
Knit & Crochet Lace Panels
Knit & Crochet Lace PanelsThis week on Ask Me Monday, I show how to knit & crochet lace panels. Whether you want to use them as-is, to make things like bookmakers and belts, use multiples to make hanging planters (see below), or incorporate them into larger projects, these lace panels are a great addition to your stitch arsenal!
This episode of Ask Me Monday is sponsored by Knitter’s Pride/ KnitPro
Featured Knitter’s Pride Products: Ginger Crochet Hook and Mindful Collection Believe Needle Set
Knit Lace Panel Directions
SPECIAL STITCH
SK2P: Slip 1, K2tog, PSSO:
Slip 1 stitch as if to knit, knit the next 2 stitches together, pass slipped stitch over.
CO 11.
Row 1 (RS): K2, ktbl x2, k3, ktbl x2, k2.
Row 2: K2, ptbl x2, p3, ptbl x2, k2.
Row 3: K2, ktbl x2, YO, sk2p, YO, ktbl x2, k2.
Row 4: Rep Row 2.
Repeat Rows 1-4 until the piece measures 5” / 12.5 cm, or desired length, from CO edge.
BO.
Put your skills to work!
Flora Knit Hanging Planter by Vickie Howell for Yarnyay!
Crochet Lace Panel Directions
SPECIAL STITCH
Fan: 5 dc in same st
Ch 11.
Row 1 (RS): Dc in 4th ch from hook, (chs count as one dc) sk 2 sts, fan in next st, sk 2 sts, dc in next 2 sts. Turn work.
Row 2: Ch 1, dc in each of the next 2 sts, sk 2 sts, fan in next st, sk 2 sts, dc in each of the next 2 sts. Turn work.
Rep Row 2 until the piece measures 5” / 12.5 cm, or desired length, from CO edge.
Fasten off.
Put your skills to work!
Fauna Crochet Hanging Planter by Toni Lipsey for YarnYAY!
Try more knit and crochet stitches!
Subscribe to my monthly boxes for knitters & crocheters!
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August 3, 2022
YarnYAY! August Box #52
Are you venturing outside with your knitting and crochet? The YarnYAY! August Box is for you! (Also, if you stay inside, it’s for you. 
)
This month we went with a “plant happy” theme with projects and products including plant-based materials, made to hold your favorite foliage or to wear while you’re gardening. We hope you enjoy our August selections!
Isola | Berroco
Ombre linen and cotton shine a lovely summer light on this month’s box. We chose two, versatile blues to complement plants, homes, and beyond!
Berroco is a six-generation, family-owned business, based in Rhode Island. Learn more at: berroco.com.com
Plant Hanger Patterns | Designs by Vickie Howell & Designer in Residence, Toni Lipsey
Flora Knit Hanging Planter by Vickie Howell for Yarnyay!
YarnYAY! won’t leave you hanging this month, but we will do so for your plants. The knit version, designed by me, is created by knit-flat pieces that are then joined in the round. The crochet hanger designed by Toni is worked from base-up, with lacy panels and a festive tassel.
Fauna Crochet Hanging Planter by Toni Lipsey for YarnYAY!
Follow and support our Fall/Winter Designer in Residence, Toni Lipsey on Instagram: @tlyarncrafts
Crafty Hand Cream | Karma Cure
Made with hemp oil, Crafty Hand Cream is the perfect all-natural, cruelty-free moisturizer for busy crafters.
Karma Cure products are handmade in New York. Learn more at: karma-cure.com
Bucket Hat | YarnYAY!
The kids tell us that bucket hats are back in a big way! Wear ours this summer while you’re gardening or sitting for some poolside stitching!
The post YarnYAY! August Box #52 appeared first on Vickie Howell.
August 1, 2022
Mosaic Checkered Knit Stitch
This week on Ask Me Monday I was joined by illustrator, designer and YarnYAY!’s Maker Assistant, Becky Joiner. We chatted about her design for our latest YarnYAY! Kit, the Dottie Vest, including how to measure yourself and how ease works. Then Becky showed how easy colorwork can be with Checkered Mosaic knit stitch. Watch, swatch, and go!
This episode is brought to you by:
Featured YarnYAY! Products: Vickie Howell Aqua Wooden Needles and the Dottie Vest Kit
Checkered Mosiac Knit Stitch: Swatch it!
MATERIALS
Yarn in colors A, B, C (we used this)
Corresponding needles (we used these)
DIRECTIONS
With A, CO 20 sts (or any multiple of 4)
Row 1 (RS): With A, knit.
Row 2 (WS): Purl.
Row 3: With B, *k2, sl2 wyib; rep from * to end.
Row 4: *P2, sl2 wyif; Rep from * to end.
Row 5: With A, knit.
Row 6: Purl.
Row 7: With B, *k2, sl2 wyib; rep from * to end.
Row 8: *Sl2 wyif, p2; rep from * to end.
Rep Rows 1-8 for pattern.
BO when piece measures square.
Love this stitch? Put your skills to work with our Dottie Vest
Dottie Vest Knit Pattern by Beck Joiner
Get Vickie Howell’s sport-weight yarn, Montoya Merino Light, and more at YarnYAY!.com!
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July 25, 2022
Santa’s Sleigh Beret
Santa’s Sleigh BeretReady to slay or rather, sleigh in a beret this winter? The Santa’s Sleigh Beret is a jaunty-cool alternative to the traditional Santa hat. This week on Ask Me Monday I show you all you need to know to knit it!
This episode of Ask Me Monday is sponsored by Knitter’s Pride/ KnitPro
Featured Knitter’s Pride Products: Mindful Collection, Ginger Needles
Santa’s Sleigh Beret | shown in Vickie Howell Montoya Merino Light, in color: Prairie Fire
Santa’s Sleigh BeretMATERIALS
1 hank, Vickie Howell Montoya Merino Light (100% superwash merino wool; 300 yds), in color: Prairie Fire
Size U.S. 4 / 3.5 mm, 16” circular needle — or size needed to obtain gauge
Size U.S. 5 / 3.75 mm, 16” circular needle and set of DPNs — or size needed to obtain gauge
Stitch marker
Tapestry needle
Faux fur pompom
Get the Santa’s Sleigh Beret Kit HERE!
SIZES
S/M (L/XL)
FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
Brim circumference: 20 (22)” / 51 (56) cm
Stretches to fit head circumference up to 22 (24)” / 56 (61) cm
GAUGE
22 sts x 32 rnds = 4”/10 cm in Stockinette Stitch with larger size needles
SPECIAL STITCHES
M1 (increase) = Lift the loop from the stitch from the row below onto the LH needle. Knit that loop. — 1 st inc.
sk2p (double decrease) = slip 1, knit the next two stitches together, pass slipped stitch over. — 2 sts dec.
Prefer a pdf? Get it for free from my YarnYAY! Shop.
DIRECTIONS
With smaller size needles, CO 110 (120) sts. PM and join to work in the round, taking care not to twist.
Rnds 1-8: *K1tbl, p1; rep from * around.
Switch to larger size circular needles.
Rnd 9: Knit.
Rnd 10: K1, [M1, k1 in same st]; rep from * around. — 165 (165) sts
Rnds 11-20: Knit.
Rnd 21: Purl.
Rnd 22: Knit.
Crown Decreases:
Note: Switch to DPNs when necessary.
Rnd 1: *K12, sk2p; rep from * around. — 130 (143) sts
Rnds 2-5: Knit.
Rnd 6: *K10, sk2p; rep from * around. — 110 (121) sts
Rnds 7-10: Knit.
Rnd 11: *K8, sk2p; rep from * around. — 90 (99) sts
Rnds 12-15: Knit.
Rnd 16: *K6, sk2p; rep from * around. — 70 (77) sts
Rnds 17-20: Knit.
Rnd 21: *K4, sk2p; rep from * around. — 50 (55) sts
Rnds 22-25: Knit.
Rnd 26: *K2, sk2p; rep from * around. — 33 (33) sts
Rnds 27-30: Knit.
Rnd 31: *Sk2p; rep from * around. — 10 (11) sts
Rnd 32: Knit.
Rnd 33: *K2tog; rep from * around, ending size L/XL with k1. — 5 sts
Cut yarn, leaving a tail. Use tapestry needle to thread tail through live sts, letting them fall off of needles. Cinch shut.
FINISHING
Weave in ends. Block Piece.
Using yarn and tapestry needle, sew pompom onto top of hat.
You’re ready to sleigh this holiday season!
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