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<channel><title><![CDATA[Cara Corey Designs - Blog]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog]]></link><description><![CDATA[Blog]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2026 09:57:21 -0500</pubDate><generator>Weebly</generator><item><title><![CDATA[Red resistance hats]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/red-resistance-hats]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/red-resistance-hats#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Sun, 01 Feb 2026 18:39:50 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.caracorey.com/blog/red-resistance-hats</guid><description><![CDATA[If you would like to make your own red resistance hat and need a pattern that knits up quickly, here is one that can be made with a super bulky yarn (size 6).&nbsp;You can read about the history of the hats here, and how the Melt the ICE hat pattern is raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for local nonprofits in our community in Minnesota.&nbsp;I'm not charging for my pattern, but I would encourage you to donate to organizations working on the ground here or in your own community. Everything [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">If you would like to make your own red resistance hat and need a pattern that knits up quickly, here is one that can be made with a super bulky yarn (size 6).&nbsp;<br /><br />You can read about the <a href="https://www.npr.org/2026/01/31/nx-s1-5693767/red-hat-protest-minnesota" target="_blank">history of the hats here</a>, and how the <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/melt-the-ice-hat" target="_blank">Melt the ICE hat pattern</a> is raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for local nonprofits in our community in Minnesota.&nbsp;<br /><br />I'm not charging for my pattern, but I would encourage you to donate to <a href="https://www.standwithminnesota.com/" target="_blank">organizations</a> working on the ground here or in your own community. Everything helps.&nbsp;</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-6626_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><strong>Materials</strong><br /><br />&bull; 1 skein super bulky (size 6) red yarn such as Wool-Ease Thick and Quick in Cranberry<br />&bull; Size 13 circular knitting needle in 16-inch length<br />&bull; Set of 4 size 13 double-pointed needles<br />&bull; Yarn needle<br />&bull; Stitch marker<br />&#8203;&bull; Scissors<br /><br />*Note that other super bulky yarns will also work. Or, if you have a thinner yarn in your stash, you could double up the strands.&nbsp;<br /><br />The tail and tassel are worked separately so that you can include them or not.&nbsp;<br /><br /><strong>Instructions</strong><br /><br />Cast on 40 stitches. I like to use a loose cast-on so I can fold up the brim. Join, being careful not to twist the stitches and place marker.&nbsp;<br /><br />Work in K1 P1 ribbing all the way around for 5.5 inches.&nbsp;<br /><br />Switch to stockinette stitch and knit until your piece is 9 inches tall.&nbsp;<br /><br />Begin decreases. *Knit 6, K2TOG. Repeat for entire round.<br />Knit all stitches in next round.&nbsp;<br />Continue decreasing in this manner:<br />Knit 5, K2TOG &amp; repeat for rest of row. Knit the next row.&nbsp;<br />Knit 4, K2TOG&nbsp;<span style="color:rgb(98, 98, 98)">&amp; repeat for rest of row. Knit the next row.&nbsp;<br />Switch to double-pointed needles and divide stitches among 3 needles.</span><br />Knit 3, K2TOG&nbsp;<span style="color:rgb(98, 98, 98)">&amp; repeat for rest of row. Knit the next row.&nbsp;<br />Knit 2, K2TOG&nbsp;&amp; repeat for rest of row.&nbsp;<br />Knit 1, K2TOG &amp; repeat for rest of row.&nbsp;<br />K2TOG &amp; repeat for rest of row.&nbsp;<br /><br />Cut yarn, thread thread through yarn needle. Then thread yarn through remaining stitches and cinch to close up the top. Tie a knot and cut off excess yarn.&nbsp;</span><br /></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-6622_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <span class='imgPusher' style='float:right;height:0px'></span><span style='display: table;width:auto;position:relative;float:right;max-width:100%;;clear:right;margin-top:18px;*margin-top:36px'><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/published/img-6623.jpeg?1769973446" style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 20px; margin-right: 10px; border-width:1px;padding:3px; max-width:100%" alt="Picture" class="galleryImageBorder wsite-image" /></a><span style="display: table-caption; caption-side: bottom; font-size: 90%; margin-top: -10px; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: center;" class="wsite-caption"></span></span> <div class="paragraph" style="display:block;"><strong>Make I-Cord</strong><br /><br />I love this method! Cast on 4 stitches to one of your DPNs. Slide the stitches to the right side of the needle. Knit the four stitches (the yarn will be feeding from the back on the left side but that's okay). Slide the yarn back to the right and knit four again. Repeat this, sliding the yarn to the right each time you finish a row. When your cord measures 6 inches long, you can bind off the stitches or snip yarn and thread it through the stitches and cinch up the top.&nbsp;<br />&#8203;<br /><br /><strong>Make Tassel</strong><br /><br />Wrap some extra yarn around your palm a few times and cut it. Then cut another piece about 8 inches long. Take the wrapped yarn off your hand, keeping it looped, and then wrap the extra piece around the folded top (about an inch from the top) a few times and tie a tight knot. You can then cut all the strands at the bottom and trim them into an even fringe.&nbsp;</div> <hr style="width:100%;clear:both;visibility:hidden;"></hr>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-6625_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><strong>Attach I-Cord &amp; Tassel</strong><br /><br />I'm sure there is an official way to do this, but I just used my yarn needle to sew the tassel to the tail and then sew the tail onto the top of the hat, hiding the knots on the inside of the hat.&nbsp;<br /><br />You could sew a piece of fleece to the inside to make it a little warmer. Stay warm and take care of each other!<br /></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Easy knit coasters]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/easy-knit-coasters]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/easy-knit-coasters#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 20 Mar 2023 01:12:37 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[free patterns]]></category><category><![CDATA[knitting]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.caracorey.com/blog/easy-knit-coasters</guid><description><![CDATA[These adorable rope coasters work up in no time. You make the stitches with your fingers, so you don't even need knitting needles! This is a great project for kids as well. One hank of macrame cord will make 4 coasters.&nbsp;​Materials• 50 feet of 6 mm macrame cord (I used Cora's cotton craft cord)• Scissors• Clear tapeInstructions​Start by leaving a tail about 6 inches long and make a slip knot. A slip knot is an adjustable knot - there are many ways to make one, but I wrap the yarn a [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">These adorable rope coasters work up in no time. You make the stitches with your fingers, so you don't even need knitting needles! This is a great project for kids as well. One hank of macrame cord will make 4 coasters.&nbsp;</span>&#8203;</div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-1277_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div class="paragraph"><strong><span>Materials</span></strong><br><br>&bull; 50 feet of 6 mm macrame cord (I used Cora's cotton craft cord)<br>&bull; Scissors<br>&bull; Clear tape<br><strong><span><br>Instructions</span></strong><br><br>&#8203;Start by leaving a tail about 6 inches long and make a slip knot. A slip knot is an adjustable knot - there are many ways to make one, but I wrap the yarn around my palm until it crosses over and then and I push up a loop of yarn behind my hand. Then you can let your hand slip out and tighten the knot.&nbsp;</div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/slipknot_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/slipknot2_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">Since you don't have knitting needles, you need to make a chain of loops for the base of the coaster. Coming from behind, pull the cord through the loop to create a new loop. It should be about the same size - big enough to fit 2 fingers through it. That is your first chain (see below).&nbsp;</span>&#8203;</div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/firstchain_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">Making sure you don't tighten the previous chain into a knot, pull another loop through that one. You are going to make a total of 4 chains, plus you will have an extra loop sticking out.&nbsp;</span>&#8203;</div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/fourchains_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">Now you're going to take the extra loop sticking out to the right, and stand it up. Make sure it's flat and not twisted. This is now the first loop of your new row.&nbsp;</span>&#8203;</div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/startsecondrow_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">Now you're going to move left to the next chain. (If you're not sure where to go, look at where the first loop is coming out and go one left of that). Coming from behind, you will pull a new loop through just the top of the chain. Try to match the size to the first loop.&nbsp;</span>&#8203;</div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/secondloop_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">Now you will do this two more times for a total of four loops. Sometimes, the first chain gets a little squished by the time you reach it. So you might need to stretch your chain out a little bit to see them more clearly.&nbsp;</span>&#8203;</div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/fourloops_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">Now things get a little big easier. You will just be putting loops into other loops. Coming from behind and starting from the left most loop, pull a new loop through that one. Just make sure you are matching the size as best you can.&nbsp;</span>&#8203;</div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/thirdrow_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">Continue across the row, pulling loops through the rest of the loops.&nbsp;</span>&#8203;</div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/fullthirdrow_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">Now you have two full rows of knit stitches. Make two more rows, for a total of four.</span></div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/fourrows_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">Now you are going to bind off your stitches. You start knitting as if it's a normal row and make your first two loops. Now you will take the second loop you made and thread it through the center of the first loop. That binds it off.&nbsp;</span>&#8203;</div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/bindingoff_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/boundoff_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">Now move to the next stitch and knit one. Thread this loop through the previous loop. Now you have two stitches bound off and you should start to see an edge forming. Continue down the row until you have one loop left.&nbsp;</span>&#8203;</div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/lastrowdone_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">Now you just have to do the finishing. You can cut off the yarn with about 6 inches left. Wrap a little clear tape around the end so it doesn't fray. Then thread this tail through the last loop and tighten it into a knot.&nbsp;</span>&#8203;</div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/tapeend_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">Now turn your coaster over to the other side. You'll notice the stitches are more bumpy. This is a good place to hide your yarn tails. Just lift up some of the stitches (I like to go in a line down the side) and tuck the yarn tail underneath.&nbsp;</span>&#8203;</div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/weaving_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div class="paragraph">If you end up with too much extra yarn, you can cut it off and just tape the end again. Repeat this weaving in process with the other tail.&nbsp;<br><br>Another option would be to just cut off the tails next to the knots at the beginning and end of your work. Then you could put a dab of hot glue or fabric glue on the knot to keep it from unraveling.&nbsp;<br><br>&#8203;A full set of 4 coasters would make a great gift for a friend!&nbsp;</div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/otzk4034_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none" style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"><a><img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/rope-coasters-pinterest_orig.png" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%"></a><div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div></div></div><div><div id="280197356614701021" align="left" style="width: 100%; overflow-y: hidden;" class="wcustomhtml"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/phpA6zPrtEA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Crocheted owl pillow]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/crocheted-owl-pillow]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/crocheted-owl-pillow#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:47:31 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[free patterns]]></category><category><![CDATA[knitting]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.caracorey.com/blog/crocheted-owl-pillow</guid><description><![CDATA[I used to make tiny owlies to sell at craft fairs and I always wondered, what if I made one that was really big instead? It seemed like the perfect project for&nbsp;Tough Love yarn&nbsp;(my favorite wool yarn for poufs), although you could use any jumbo yarn, wool roving, or multiple strands of bulky yarn held together instead. The Tough Love will hold up to a lot of use.         I used my fingers to make the stitches, but you could use a jumbo crochet hook if you wanted (size U/25 mm). They are [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">I used to make tiny owlies to sell at craft fairs and I always wondered, what if I made one that was really big instead? It seemed like the perfect project for</span><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">&nbsp;</span><a href="https://lovefestfibers.com/products/tough-love?variant=9439641541">Tough Love yarn</a><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">(my favorite wool yarn for poufs), although you could use any jumbo yarn, wool roving, or multiple strands of bulky yarn held together instead. The Tough Love will hold up to a lot of use.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/betterowl_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">I used my fingers to make the stitches, but you could use a jumbo crochet hook if you wanted (size U/25 mm). They are much easier to find at craft stores than they used to be. The stuffing is also up to you &ndash; you won&rsquo;t see it so feel free to recycle old fabric or anything soft and pillow-like.</span></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Crocheted owl pillow</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><strong><span>Materials</span></strong><br /><br />&bull; 2 balls of Tough Love felted wool yarn (approx. 50 yards each)<br />(I used the teal and turmeric colors)<br />&bull; Small piece of white or beige felt for the eyes<br />&bull; Black and orange yarn pieces for the eyes and mouth<br />(I used a small piece of turmeric Tough Love with the bottom snipped into a V for the beak and two little pieces of Tough Love Tiny for the eyes. A black piece of Tough Love split down the middle to make 2 skinny pieces would work for this as well.)<br />&bull;&nbsp;Polyester fiberfill stuffing (or stuffing of your choice)<br />&bull;&nbsp;Stitch marker<br />&bull; Fabric glue or needle and thread to attach the eyes/mouth<br /><strong><span><br />Instructions</span></strong><br /><br />*If you already know how to crochet, you can Ch2, make 6 SC into the first chain and skip to the second row. *<br /><span><br />&#8203;First row</span>. Start by making a<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.woolandthegang.com/how-to/knit/how-to-make-a-slip-knot" target="_blank">slip knot</a>. Leave a short tail (6-8 inches) of yarn, which you will tuck inside later. Reach two fingers into the loop and pull another loop of yarn through there. That makes your first chain. Pull another loop through the last loop to make a second chain.</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-6767_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><em><span>Pulling the first loop through the slip knot to make a chain.</span></em></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-6768_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><em><span>First chain complete. You&rsquo;ll make 2.</span></em><br /><br />&#8203;Place the last loop on your finger. You are now going to put 6 single crochet stitches (SC) into the first chain you made. (You might need to use your fingers to open that space a little wider).<br /><br />Reach under the top of the first chain and pull up a loop so that you now have 2 loops on your finger. Now reach through both of those loops and pull a new loop through them. That&rsquo;s a single crochet!</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-6771_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><em><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">Two loops on your finger &ndash; now pull a new loop through these.</span></em></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-6773_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><em><span>SC stitch complete. Notice the space for the next 5 stitches.</span></em><br /><br />&#8203;Now you are going to repeat that five times until you have a total of six single crochet stitches in the same chain stitch. By the time you finish, you should have made a circle shape. Place a stitch marker on your very last stitch. (Every time you complete a row, you will move this marker up to the next row).</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-6776_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">For the&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)"><strong>second</strong> row</span><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">, you&rsquo;re going to put two SC into each of the six stitches for a total of 12 stitches in that row. The top of each crochet stitch looks kind of like a V. You&rsquo;ll reach under both sides of that V to pull the new loop for the next stitch through.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-6779_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">For the</span><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">&nbsp;</span><strong><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">third</span></strong><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">row, you will put 1 SC in the first stitch and 2 SC into the second stitch and repeat that pattern for a total of 18 stitches. This is where you will stop increasing.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-6780_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">For the&nbsp;</span><strong><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">fourth</span></strong><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">&nbsp;row and every row after, you will put 1 SC in each stitch, staying with 18 stitches per row. This will make your piece start going up into sort of a basket shape. Stop at the end of 12 rows.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-6783_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><strong><span>Finishing</span></strong><br /><br />&#8203;When you reach your last stitch, pull the remaining yarn through the middle of the stitch and tighten it. You will use the yarn tail to stitch the top of the pillow closed.</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-6790_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><em><span>The finished piece looks like this.</span></em><br /><br />&#8203;First, you need to add stuffing. Place enough stuffing inside the pillow so that it will stand up, but it&rsquo;s not bursting out the top. Once you&rsquo;re happy with it, you can start sewing top closed. (You can also tuck the tail from the beginning of your work inside the pillow).</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-6791_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">I like to hold one loop from each side of the seam together and then weave the yarn through both loops, side to side until I reach the end. Then tie a knot and tuck the rest of the yarn inside the pillow. If there&rsquo;s too much, cut it off to about 6 inches long, then tuck that inside.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-6795_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><em><span><span>Pinching one stitch from each side together, then weaving the yarn tail through.</span></span></em><br /><br />&#8203;Now you can add the eyes and mouth. Cut out two felt circles &ndash; I like to draw around the bottom of a glass to get perfect circles. Then add the black pieces in a U-shape to look like eyes. They are about 3 inches long.</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-6796_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">You can attach them with a few stitches or some fabric glue, like Fabri-Tac. For the nose, I cut a piece of Tough Love about 2 inches long and then snipped off the bottom in a V-shape. But you could also use another type of yarn or felt and glue it on.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-6798_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span>That&rsquo;s it! You could make one, or a whole bunch of owls, maybe with different-sized yarns. I think they would be so cute in a kids room.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/img-7294_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/owl-pillow2_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Cozy knit reversible cowl]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/cozy-knit-reversible-cowl]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/cozy-knit-reversible-cowl#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:41:26 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[free patterns]]></category><category><![CDATA[knitting]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.caracorey.com/blog/cozy-knit-reversible-cowl</guid><description><![CDATA[Here&rsquo;s another freebie pattern that I absolutely love for fall and winter. This cowl is super warm and cozy, and the bonus is that it is ribbed on one side and bobbly on the other. You can wear it long like a scarf, or doubled up around your neck. Or you can even pull it over your head like a hood or lower on your shoulders like a shawl.         Cozy knit reversible cowl  Materials&bull; 3 skeins&nbsp;Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick and Quick yarn&nbsp;in cranberry (or your favorite color)Other [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">Here&rsquo;s another freebie pattern that I absolutely love for fall and winter. This cowl is super warm and cozy, and the bonus is that it is ribbed on one side and bobbly on the other. You can wear it long like a scarf, or doubled up around your neck. Or you can even pull it over your head like a hood or lower on your shoulders like a shawl.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/cowl1-sq_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Cozy knit reversible cowl</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><strong><span>Materials</span></strong><br />&bull; 3 skeins&nbsp;<a href="http://www.joann.com/lion-brand-wool-ease-thick-and-quick-yarn/prd12018.html" target="_blank">Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick and Quick yarn</a>&nbsp;in cranberry (or your favorite color)<br />Other super bulky yarns would work great for this, too.<br />&bull; Size US 15/10 mm straight knitting needles<br />&bull; Yarn needle to sew up the seam</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/cowl2_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><strong><span>Instructions</span></strong><br /><br />Cast on 32 stitches.<br />Row 1: K1P1 across.<br />Row 2: Knit.<br />Repeat these two rows until the piece measures 52 inches. Bind off on last knit row, leaving a long tail to sew up the seam.<br /><br />&#8203;With right sides facing and using the long tail of yarn, sew up the seam using mattress stitch or your favorite seaming stitch. Weave in any ends and turn the piece right-side-out.</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/cowl3_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">*You could also just leave the piece as a scarf and make it longer or shorter. Up to you!</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/reversible-cowl_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Super bulky knit cowl]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/super-bulky-knit-cowl]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/super-bulky-knit-cowl#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:36:50 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[free patterns]]></category><category><![CDATA[knitting]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.caracorey.com/blog/super-bulky-knit-cowl</guid><description><![CDATA[If you&rsquo;re looking for a project that works up quickly (a la the&nbsp;arm-knit cowl), try this one. I can have one of these babies finished in half an hour!         At first this project came up out of necessity &mdash; my other cowl patterns were just taking too long to make, especially when I needed to make lots of them for shows. But now I think I would make this cowl anyway, just because it is so cute and so warm.         Super bulky cowl  Materials&bull; 4 skeins&nbsp;Lion Brand wool-e [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">If you&rsquo;re looking for a project that works up quickly (a la the&nbsp;arm-knit cowl), try this one. I can have one of these babies finished in half an hour!</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/bulkycowl01_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">At first this project came up out of necessity &mdash; my other cowl patterns were just taking too long to make, especially when I needed to make lots of them for shows. But now I think I would make this cowl anyway, just because it is so cute and so warm.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/bulkycowl04_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Super bulky cowl</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><strong>Materials</strong><br /><br />&bull; 4 skeins&nbsp;<a href="http://www.joann.com/lion-brand-wool-ease-thick-and-quick-yarn/prd12018.html" target="_blank">Lion Brand wool-ease thick and quick yarn</a>&nbsp;in navy (or your favorite color). *Note: 2 skeins is actually just the right amount for this cowl, but you will have to separate them into 4 equal parts to make the cowl.<br />Other super bulky weight yarns would also work great for this.<br />&bull; Size&nbsp;<a href="http://www.joann.com/lion-brand-speed-stix-14in-knitting-needles-size-50/8211948.html" target="_blank">US 50/25 mm knitting needles</a>&nbsp;<br />&bull; yarn needle to weave in ends<br /><strong><span><br />Instructions</span></strong><br /><br />Start by holding 4 strands of yarn together and tying a knot in the end. Leave a few inches of tail and then cast on 6 stitches.<br /><br />Work in garter stitch (knitting every row) until the piece measures approximately 48 inches. Bind off, leaving about 12 inches of tail to sew up the seam.<br /><br />&#8203;Tie another knot on the end of the tail and then use it to seam the two ends of the cowl together (I like a<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.allfreeknitting.com/Knitting-Tutorials/Seaming-Knitting-Easy-Methods-Sewing-Knitting-Projects-Together" target="_blank">whip stitch</a>). I usually just do this part with my hands. When you&rsquo;re done, you can cut off the knots from both tails and then use the yarn needle to weave any remaining ends into the cowl. I usually make a few knots just so the seam is nice and secure. Then snip off any extra yarn.</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/bulkycowl02_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span>The garter stitch pattern makes this cowl nice and stretchy, so you can wear it doubled up or let it hang longer like a scarf.&nbsp;</span><br /><span></span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/super-bulky-cowl_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Arm knit cowl]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/arm-knit-cowl]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/arm-knit-cowl#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:32:23 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[free patterns]]></category><category><![CDATA[knitting]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.caracorey.com/blog/arm-knit-cowl</guid><description><![CDATA[The fastest way to knit yourself a cozy scarf or cowl is to put a few strands of chunky yarn together and arm knit it. It can be tricky at first to knit the stitches back and forth across your arms. But once you get the hang of it, the rows work up almost instantly. I wrote up the pattern, which you can download for free at this link:&nbsp;Download PDF         I like to use Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick &lsquo;n Quick yarn for these, but pretty much any super bulky yarn will also work. There are mo [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><span>The fastest way to knit yourself a cozy scarf or cowl is to put a few strands of chunky yarn together and arm knit it. It can be tricky at first to knit the stitches back and forth across your arms. But once you get the hang of it, the rows work up almost instantly. I wrote up the pattern, which you can download for free at this link:&nbsp;</span><br /><span></span><span><a href="http://media.caracorey.com/images/2015/armknitcowl.pdf">Download PDF</a></span><br /><span></span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/armknitcowl_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">I like to use Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick &lsquo;n Quick yarn for these, but pretty much any super bulky yarn will also work. There are more giant chunky yarns available than ever, so you may also be able to knit a cowl with just one strand.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/cowl1_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span>You can decide if you want to make a single loop cowl that drapes somewhat loosely, or a longer double-loop cowl that stays warm around your neck.</span><br /><span><br />&#8203;If the PDF instructions aren&rsquo;t enough to get you knitting, you can also enroll in my&nbsp;<a href="https://www.skillshare.com/classes/Intro-to-arm-knitting-make-a-quick-single-or-double-loop-cowl/" target="_blank">Skillshare video class</a>.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/arm-knit-cowl_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[The perfect fall scarf]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/the-perfect-fall-scarf]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/the-perfect-fall-scarf#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:22:34 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[free patterns]]></category><category><![CDATA[knitting]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.caracorey.com/blog/the-perfect-fall-scarf</guid><description><![CDATA[Fall&rsquo;s in-between-y weather calls for a scarf that&rsquo;s cozy but not so stifling that you have to take it off the minute you get indoors. This lacy lightweight scarf can be made with just about any yarn you like (and it&rsquo;s a great way to use up your stash), but I used super soft organic merino wool.         Lightweight lace scarf  Materials&#8203;1 skein Sublime organic merino wool DKSize J/10 crochet hookScissorsTapestry needleInstructionsChain 20. Single crochet into the 8th chai [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">Fall&rsquo;s in-between-y weather calls for a scarf that&rsquo;s cozy but not so stifling that you have to take it off the minute you get indoors. This lacy lightweight scarf can be made with just about any yarn you like (and it&rsquo;s a great way to use up your stash), but I used super soft organic merino wool.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/merino3_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Lightweight lace scarf</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><strong>Materials<br /><br />&#8203;</strong>1 skein Sublime organic merino wool DK<br />Size J/10 crochet hook<br />Scissors<br />Tapestry needle<br /><br /><strong>Instructions</strong><br /><br />Chain 20. Single crochet into the 8th chain from the hook. Chain 5. Skip 3 stitches and single crochet into the 4th stitch over. Repeat ch 5 and SC into 4th stitch until you reach the end. Chain 5, turn.<br /><br />Row 2: SC into the middle of the loop you just made. Chain 5 and SC into the next loop. Repeat until the end of the row, ch 5 and turn. Repeat the pattern across every row until piece measures 60 inches. Cut yarn and weave in ends.</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/greenlace1-sq_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">I&rsquo;ve made this scarf with a lot of different yarns. I really liked the softness and extra bulk of Lion Brand&rsquo;s organic cotton yarn, which is discontinued now, but there are a lot of similar cotton yarns out there.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hobby Lobby&rsquo;s Cotton XXL yarn is almost identical and comes in great colors.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/greenlace2_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span>This pattern is really adaptable to whatever yarn you want to use and whatever length and width you want the scarf to be. You could even add fringe!</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/multilacescarf3_orig.jpeg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">It&rsquo;s been really fun seeing all the&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lightweight-lace-scarf/people" target="_blank">different versions on Ravelry</a><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">. You gotta love a pattern that works up this quickly and easily!</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/crochet-scarf_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Seed stitch dish cloths]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/seed-stitch-dish-cloths]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/seed-stitch-dish-cloths#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:16:52 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[free patterns]]></category><category><![CDATA[knitting]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.caracorey.com/blog/seed-stitch-dish-cloths</guid><description><![CDATA[I discovered a few years ago that the world&rsquo;s best dish scrubbers are handmade with inexpensive cotton yarn. But I&rsquo;d always thought it was the bobbled crochet stitch that made them so great. Not so! I still love crocheted&nbsp;cloths but I&nbsp;actually think that a seed stitch works even better for creating a grime-fighting texture. And I love the way my dish cloths look, with a neat crochet trim in a coordinating color. They&rsquo;re like tiny versions of the baby blankets I used t [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><font color="#333232">I discovered a few years ago that the world&rsquo;s best dish scrubbers are handmade with inexpensive cotton yarn. But I&rsquo;d always thought it was the bobbled crochet stitch that made them so great. Not so! I still love crocheted&nbsp;<span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 50, 50);">cloths but I</span>&nbsp;actually think that a seed stitch works even better for creating a grime-fighting texture. And I love the way my dish cloths look, with a neat crochet trim in a coordinating color. They&rsquo;re like tiny versions of the baby blankets I used to sell.</font></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/dishcloths3_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Seed stitch dish cloths</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><strong><span>Materials</span></strong><br /><br />&#8203;Worsted weight cotton yarn in two colors<br />Size 7 knitting needles<br />Size G/6 crochet hook<br />Yarn needle</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/dishcloths2_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><strong><span>Instructions</span></strong><br /><br />With the knitting needles, CO 33 stitches with the main color. Work in seed stitch pattern (K1, P1) across the first row, and all subsequent rows until piece measures as tall as it is wide (should be about 7.5 inches). Bind off in pattern.<br /><br />&#8203;Starting on the right side of the BO row, insert the crochet hook into the top of any stitch and pull the second color through. Begin to SC a border around the entire edge of the piece, putting 3 SC into each corner. When you reach the stitch where you started, slip stitch through it, and then snip off the yarn. Weave in ends.</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/dishcloths4_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph">You&rsquo;ll definitely want to block these to make sure they come out nice and square.<br /><span></span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/seed-stitch-dish-cloths_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Crochet color block blanket]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/crochet-color-block-blanket]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/crochet-color-block-blanket#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:10:52 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[free patterns]]></category><category><![CDATA[knitting]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.caracorey.com/blog/crochet-color-block-blanket</guid><description><![CDATA[I made this blanket years ago, and even though the yarn has been discontinued, I still think it&rsquo;s a great project that you can make with any worsted weight yarn that comes in 8 colors. Use the color block sequence to help you decide how many rows of each color to do.&nbsp;&#8203;         Here is the original post:I had a bunch of leftover yarn from a&nbsp;secret project, so I got to thinking it would make an adorable blanket with blocks of bright colors.The final version was just about big [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">I made this blanket years ago, and even though the yarn has been discontinued, I still think it&rsquo;s a great project that you can make with any worsted weight yarn that comes in 8 colors. Use the color block sequence to help you decide how many rows of each color to do.&nbsp;</span>&#8203;</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/crochetblanket3_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph">Here is the original post:<br />I had a bunch of leftover yarn from a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/double-sided-throw-pillow-cover">secret project</a>, so I got to thinking it would make an adorable blanket with blocks of bright colors.<br />The final version was just about big enough to cover my 4&rsquo;x6&prime; rug.</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/crochetblanket1_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph">Since I was using my leftovers, but also had to buy some new yarn, my blanket isn&rsquo;t exactly perfect. But I&rsquo;m pretty sure, putting this into a pattern, that you can make it with two skeins each of these:<br />Stitch Nation Bamboo Ewe (55 percent bamboo, 45 percent wool) &ndash; Periwinkle (A), Geranium (B), Snapdragon (C), Mermaid (D), Twilight (E), Lipstick (F), Beach Glass (G), Mercury (H)<br /><span>*I&rsquo;m sorry to say that this yarn has been discontinued, but you can use the pattern to create a stripe sequence with any worsted weight yarn that comes in 8 colors.&nbsp;</span><br /><br />You need a J/10 size crochet hook.<br /><br />&#8203;Ch 152. DC across for a total of 150 stitches. (Here&rsquo;s a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.craftyarncouncil.com/mar06_dc.html">refresher on double crochet</a>.)<br /><br />&#8203;The stripe sequence:<br />8 rows A<br />4 rows B<br />2 rows C<br />7 rows D<br />4 rows E<br />2 rows F<br />7 rows G<br />3 rows H<br />5 rows C<br />4 rows B<br />5 rows F<br />Repeat once.<br />(In between I added 8 rows E plus 4 rows H, but that is optional).</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/crochetblanket2_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span>I love the colors and the soft, fuzzy texture of this yarn. It&rsquo;s just a happy blanket.</span><br /><span></span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/color-block-blanket_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[stripey baby legwarmers]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/stripey-baby-legwarmers]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.caracorey.com/blog/stripey-baby-legwarmers#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Sun, 19 Mar 2023 23:28:24 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[free patterns]]></category><category><![CDATA[knitting]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.caracorey.com/blog/stripey-baby-legwarmers</guid><description><![CDATA[When my daughter Harper was a baby, I loved making legwarmers for her. The weather in northern California was often kind of chilly, so it was nice to have something to dress her in that could stay on while I was changing a diaper. Plus, I got so many compliments on her cute, fuzzy legs!&nbsp;&#8203;         The yarn I originally used was called Jiffy &ndash; it was thin but with enough fuzziness to bump it up to more of a bulky size. Sadly, this yarn has been discontinued, but you can substitute [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">When my daughter Harper was a baby, I loved making legwarmers for her. The weather in northern California was often kind of chilly, so it was nice to have something to dress her in that could stay on while I was changing a diaper. Plus, I got so many compliments on her cute, fuzzy legs!&nbsp;</span>&#8203;</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/babylegs1_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 50, 50)">The yarn I originally used was called Jiffy &ndash; it was thin but with enough fuzziness to bump it up to more of a bulky size. Sadly, this yarn has been discontinued, but you can substitute another fuzzy yarn or a bulky-weight yarn. Joann Fabrics sells a yarn called Big Twist Rainbow Classic that is quite similar. I&rsquo;m keeping the pattern up because I think you could use the color block sequence as long as you have 4 colors.</span></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Stripey baby legwarmers</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><strong>Materials</strong><br />&bull; (Formerly) Lion Brand Jiffy yarn in colors: grape (A), country green (B), silver heather (C), and dark grey heather (D), (or any combination of 4 colors you like)<br />*<span>Try Joann Fabrics Big Twist Classic or another similar yarn</span><br />&bull; Size 10.5 straight knitting needles<br />*If you don&rsquo;t want a seam, you can always knit with DPNs or a magic loop instead.&nbsp;<br />&bull; Yarn needle to sew up seams<br /><br /><strong>Instructions</strong><br />(make 2)<br />Cast on 18 stitches, leaving a 14-inch tail so you can sew up the seam at the end. Using a stockinette pattern (knit one row, purl one row), follow this stripe sequence:<br />5 rows A<br />4 rows B<br />2 rows C<br />3 rows D<br />2 rows A<br />3 rows C<br />1 row B<br />4 rows D<br />3 rows A<br />2 rows C<br /><br />&#8203;<span>Bind off on your last row of C. Using your yarn needle, weave in any loose strings to the back side of the piece and snip off the ends. You can actually use these ends to carefully sew up the seam, matching the colors on each side. But if you don&rsquo;t have the patience for that (half the time I don&rsquo;t!), you can just use the long tail from the beginning of your work to sew up the seam.&nbsp;</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/legwarmers2_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph">To make<span>&nbsp;</span><strong><span>solid color</span></strong><span>&nbsp;</span>leg warmers, follow these instructions. You will only need one skein per pair.&nbsp;<br /><strong><span><br />&#8203;0-3 months</span>&nbsp;</strong><br />Cast on 18 stitches. Knit in stockinette pattern until piece measures &nbsp;7 inches. Bind off.&nbsp;<br /><strong><span>3-6 months</span></strong><br />Cast on 20 stitches.&nbsp;Knit in stockinette pattern until piece measures 8&nbsp;inches. Bind off.&nbsp;<br /><strong><span>6-12 months</span></strong><br />Cast on 22 stitches.&nbsp;Knit in stockinette pattern until piece measures 9&nbsp;inches. Bind off.&nbsp;</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/solidlegwarmers_orig.webp" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><strong><span>Finishing</span></strong><br /><span></span>With right sides facing, use the long tail of yarn you left at the beginning of the piece to sew a seam all the way up to the top. You can use mattress stitch, or your favorite seaming stitch. Then snip off any extra yarn and turn the leg warmer right-side-out. Repeat with the second one.<br /><span></span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/legwarmerssolid2_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="https://www.caracorey.com/uploads/1/4/1/7/141723943/legwarmers3_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>]]></content:encoded></item></channel></rss>