Free Crochet Pattern: Doodleberry Pie

Materials:
Crochet hook size E4 / 3.5mm
Worsted weight acrylic yarn in beige and pink
Tapestry/ yarn needle
Polyester stuffing

You’ll need to know how to do these stitches:
Double loop start
Half double crochet (hdc)
Single crochet (sc)
Single crochet together/ decrease (sc2tog)
Slip stitch (sl st)

Pie Crust Bottom:
With beige yarn
Rnd 1: 6 sc into a double loop start and pull the loop closed(6).
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (12).
Rnd 3: [Sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (18).
Rnd 4: [Sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (24).
Rnd 5: [Sc in next 3 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (30).
Rnd 6: [Sc in next 4 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (36).
Rnd 7: [Sc in next 5 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (42).
Rnd 8: [Sc in next 6 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (48).
Rnd 9: [Sc in next 7 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (54).
Rnd 10: [Sc in next 8 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (60).
Rnd 11: working in back loops only, [Sc in next 8 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (54).
Rnd 12: [Sc in next 8 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (60).
Rnd 13: sc in each sc around (60).
Rnd 14: [Sc in next 9 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (66).
Rnd 15: sc in each sc around (66).
Rnd 16: [Sc in next 10 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (72).
Rnd 17: working in front loops only, [3hdc in next sc, skip next sc, sl st in next sc] repeat around.
Finish off and secure ends.

Doodleberry: make 3
With pink yarn
Rnd 1: 6 sc into a double loop start and pull the loop closed (6).
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (12).
Rnds 3-4: sc in each sc around (12). Stuff with polyfil.
Rnd 5: [sc2tog] 6 times (6).
Finish off leaving a 12" tail for sewing. Weave tail through remaining 6 sc and pull up firmly to close the hole.

Pie Top:
With beige yarn
Rnd 1: 6 sc into a double loop start and pull the loop closed (6).
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (12).
Rnd 3: [Sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (18).
Rnd 4: [Sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (24).
Rnd 5: [Sc in next 3 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (30).
Rnd 6: [Sc in next 4 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (36).
Rnd 7: [Sc in next 5 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (42).
Rnd 8: sc in each sc around (42).
Rnd 9: [Sc in next 6 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (48).
Rnd 10: [Sc in next 7 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (54).
Rnd 11: [Sc in next 8 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (60).
Rnd 12: [Sc in next 9 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (66).
Rnd 13: sc in each sc around (66).
Rnd 14: [Sc in next 10 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (72).
Finish off leaving a 24” tail for sewing. Sew doodleberries to the top of the pie.
Sew Rnd 14 of pie top to the free loops on Rnd 17 of pie crust about ¾ of the way around, stuff the pie with polyfil and continue to sew together.

Free Crochet Pattern: Hippo

Materials:
Crochet hook size E4 / 3.5mm
Worsted weight acrylic yarn in baby blue and white (or two other colors of your choice)
Small amount of brown felt for eyes
Small amount of brown and white embroidery floss for eyes and nostrils
Sewing needle
Tapestry/ yarn needle
Polyester stuffing

You’ll need to know how to do these stitches:
Chain (ch)
Double loop start
Single crochet (sc)
Single crochet together/ decrease (sc2tog)
Slip stitch (sl st)

Head:
With baby blue yarn
Rnd 1: 6 sc into a double loop start and pull the loop closed (6).
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (12).
Rnd 3: [Sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (18).
Rnd 4: [Sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (24).
Rnd 5: [Sc in next 3 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (30).
Rnd 6: [Sc in next 4 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (36).
Rnd 7: [Sc in next 5 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (42).
Rnd 8: [Sc in next 6 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (48).
Rnd 9: [Sc in next 7 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (54).
Rnd 10: sc in each sc around (54).
Rnd 11: [Sc in next 8 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (60).
Rnds 12-13: sc in each sc around (60).
Rnd 14: [Sc in next 8 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (54).
Rnd 15: sc in each sc around (54).
Rnd 16: [Sc in next 7 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (48).
Rnd 17: [Sc in next 6 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (42).
Rnd 18: [Sc in next 5 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (36).
Rnd 19: [Sc in next 4 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (30).
Rnd 20: [Sc in next 3 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (24).
Rnd 21: [Sc in next 2 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (18).
Finish off, leaving a 12” tail for sewing.

Body:
With baby blue yarn
Rnd 1: 6 sc into a double loop start and pull the loop closed (6).
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (12).
Rnd 3: [Sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (18).
Rnd 4: [Sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (24).
Rnd 5: [Sc in next 3 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (30).
Rnd 6: [Sc in next 4 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (36).
Rnd 7: [Sc in next 5 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (42).
Rnd 8: [Sc in next 6 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (48).
Rnds 9-10: sc in each sc around (48).
Rnd 11: [Sc in next 7 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (54).
Rnds 12-16: sc in each sc around (54).
Rnd 17: [sc in next 7 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (48).
Rnd 18: sc in each sc around (48).
Rnd 19: [sc in next 6 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (42).
Rnd 20: sc in each sc around (42).
Rnd 21: [sc in next 5 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (36).
Rnd 22: sc in each sc around (36).
Rnd 23: [sc in next 4 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (30).
Rnd 24: [sc in the next 13, sc2tog] 2 times (28).
Rnd 25: [sc in the next 12, sc2tog] 2 times (26).
Rnd 26: [sc in the next 11, sc2tog] 2 times (24).
Rnd 27: [sc in the next 10, sc2tog] 2 times (22).
Rnd 28: sc in each sc around (22).
Rnd 29: [sc in the next 9, sc2tog] 2 times (20).
Rnd 30: [sc in the next 8, sc2tog] 2 times (18).
Finish off and secure end. Stuff head and body firmly with polyfil and sew head to body.

Arms: make 2
With white yarn
Rnd 1: 6 sc into a double loop start and pull the loop closed (6).
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (12).
Rnd 3: [Sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (18).
Rnd 4: [Sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (24).
Rnd 5: sc in each sc around (24).
Rnd 6: [Sc in next 10 sc, sc2tog] 2 times (22).
Rnd 7: [Sc in next 9 sc, sc2tog] 2 times (20).
Rnd 8: [Sc in next 8 sc, sc2tog] 2 times (18).
Switch to baby blue yarn
Rnd 9: sc in each sc around (18).
Rnd 10: [Sc in next sc, sc2tog] 6 times (12).
Rnds 11-25: sc in each sc around (12).
Finish off and secure end, leaving a 10” tail for sewing. Stuff with polyfil and sew an arm to each side of the hippo at neck level.

Legs: make 2
With white yarn
Rnd 1: 6 sc into a double loop start and pull the loop closed (6).
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (12).
Rnd 3: [Sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (18).
Rnd 4: [Sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (24).
Rnd 5: [Sc in next 3 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (30).
Rnd 6: sc in each sc around (30).
Rnd 7: [Sc in next 13 sc, sc2tog] 2 times (28).
Rnd 8: [Sc in next 12 sc, sc2tog] 2 times (26).
Rnd 9: [Sc in next 11 sc, sc2tog] 2 times (24).
Switch to baby blue yarn
Rnd 10: [Sc in next 2 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (18).
Rnds 11-30: sc in each sc around (18).
Finish off and secure end, leaving a 10” tail for sewing. Stuff with polyfil and sew a leg to each side of the hippo at Rnd 10 of the body.

Ears:
Inner Ear: make 2
With white yarn, ch 2.
Row 1: 3 sc in 2nd ch from hook, ch 1, turn (3).
Row 2: 2 sc in each sc across, ch 1, turn (6).
Row 3: [sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc] 3 times, ch 1, turn (9)
Change to baby blue yarn
Row 4: [sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 3 times (12).
Finish off, leaving 8 " tail for sewing.
Outer Ear: make 2
With baby blue yarn, ch 2.
Row 1: 3 sc in 2nd ch from hook, ch 1, turn (3).
Row 2: 2 sc in each sc across, ch 1, turn (6).
Row 3: [sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc] 3 times, ch 1, turn (9).
Row 4: [sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 3 times (12).
Finish off but do not break yarn. Using yarn tail from inner ear and with right sides facing, sew inner ear and outer ear together around the outside edge of ears (but not the bottom).
Turn ear right side out. Ears are not stuffed. Sl st bottom of inner ear and outer ear
together and finish off leaving an 8’ tail for sewing. Making ear into a curved shape as you sew it on, sew each ear to top sides of head about 2” away from the top center of head.

Nose/Muzzle:
With baby blue yarn
Ch 9
Rnd 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in next 6 ch, 2 sc in next
ch, working on the other side of the chain sc in next 7 ch, 2 sc
in next ch (18).
Rnd 2: [Sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (24).
Rnd 3: [Sc in next 3 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (30).
Rnd 4: [Sc in next 4 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (36).
Rnd 5: sc in each sc around (36).
Rnd 6: [Sc in next 5 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (42).
Rnds 7-10: sc in each sc around (42).
Rnd 11: [Sc in next 6 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (48).
Finish off leaving an 18” tail for sewing.
Using a sewing needle and dark brown embroidery floss, make nostrils on the muzzle as
shown in the picture. Sew the muzzle onto the head between Rnd 13 of head and the neck
about ¾ of the way around, stuff lightly with polyfil and continue to sew. Weave in ends.

Eyes:
Cut out 2 circles from dark brown felt about the size of a dime. Using a 6” strand of white embroidery floss, sew a “pupil” onto each felt circle. Using dark brown embroidery floss, sew the eyes onto the head as shown in the picture right above the muzzle.

New Crochet Pattern: Boxes, Bottles, Cans, Cartons & Jars

I've redesigned my Canned Goods pattern by making the items a little smaller so that they are the right size for play kitchens and grocery stores. I also added patterns for boxes, cartons and bottles. The result is my Boxes, Bottles, Cans, Cartons & Jars pattern. Using these shapes you can make tons of play food items for your kids! The tall jar can be mayo or peanut butter. The tall cans can be what ever canned veggie or soup you want. The squeeze bottle can be ketchup, syrup, or salad dressing. The possibilities are endless! Happy crocheting :)

New Crochet Pattern: Tea Set

I can't believe that I haven't designed a new pattern in a year! Things have been pretty hectic since the baby was born last year. This pattern has actually been finished for months but I finally had time to photograph it. I hope you enjoy it! With any luck I'll be able to finish and photograph a couple of other patterns soon.

I Changed My Shop's Name!!

Tonight I took the leap and changed the name of my Etsy shop. I was waiting and waiting for the day when Etsy would let us change our shop name, and then when they did I was too chicken to do it! I didn't want to have to change my blog and Flickr accounts or confuse my customers.

But I was always embarassed by my shop name -- it sounded kinda cheesy. When I chose the name I wasn't even sure that I would sell anything on Etsy or what products I would sell. Now that my shop is 100% focused on crochet patterns for toys, I thought it was time to finally do it. Hopefully everyone can still find me :)

Free Crochet Pattern: Lazy Wave Hand Towel

We just finished remodeling our basement and I needed a hand towel for the new bathroom. I looked everywhere but couldn't find one I liked, so I decided to make one myself. But I had no idea what to make or what colors to use. The basement is neutral in different shades of beige, brown and grey. Then it hit me - I would copy the wavy design in the throw pillows on the couch.

It had been a long time since I'd made a chevron or ripple afghan so I needed a refresher course. I found this great 5 part video tutorial that helped me come up with this pattern.

Materials:
- Crochet hook size H - 5mm
- Worsted weight cotton yarn in colors of your choice (I used Loops & Threads Cotton Club yarn from Michaels because that was the only brand that made grey cotton yarn!)



Stitches:
- chain (ch)
- double crochet (dc)
- dc decrease: Yarn over, insert hook into next stitch and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through 2 loops, yarn over, insert hook into next stitch and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through 2 loops, (there should now be 3 loops on the hook). Yarn over and pull through all 3 loops.

I didn't write down when I changed colors, I just freehanded it.

With yarn color of your choice
Ch 51
Row 1: dc in 4th ch from hook, dc in next 3 ch, [dc decrease, dc decrease, 1 dc in next 3 ch, 2dc in next 2 ch, 1 dc in next 3 chs] 3 times, dc decrease, dc decrease, 1 dc in next 2 ch, 2dc in last ch, ch 3, turn (45).
Row 2: dc in next 3 dc, [dc decrease, dc decrease, 1 dc in next 3 dc, 2dc in next 2 dc, 1 dc in next 3 dc] 3 times, dc decrease, dc decrease, 1 dc in next 2 dc, 2dc in last dc, ch 3, turn (45).
Rows 3-41: dc in next 3 dc, [dc decrease, dc decrease, 1 dc in next 3 dc, 2dc in next 2 dc, 1 dc in next 3 dc] 3 times, dc decrease, dc decrease, 1 dc in next 2 dc, 2dc in the 3rd ch of the ch 3 you made at the end of the previous row, ch 3, turn (45).
Finish off and weave in ends.

My Favorite Free Crochet Patterns: Chunky Cowl

Do you ever buy yarn not knowing exactly what you are going to make it into? I bought some extra bulky off-white yarn a couple of years ago. I tried making it into a drop stitch scarf, but I'm not much of a knitter and it didn't look right. So I tried to make it into a hat, but again it didn't look right. It had been so long that I lost the wrapper to the yarn and didn't even know what kind of yarn it was or what to do with it.

And then I found this free pattern. It was the perfect use for my yarn! It works up quickly and you only need to know two stitches - two stitches I had never used before so I learned something new in the process :) I've made two so far to give as Christmas presents and I'm working on a third. The third one I'm making using some grey yarn I've had sitting around for a while, but it's not bulky weight so I'm holding two strands of yarn together as I work.

I followed one of the suggestions given in the comments to the pattern. After I made the cowl, I gave it a twist before sewing the ends together. I love it!

Free Crochet Pattern: Autumn Garland

As we are remodeling our basement I keep thinking of ideas for decorating my sons' playroom. I am obsessed with making garland to decorate for each season or holiday. Garland isn't just for Christmas anymore!

I made mine in shades of orange, red and yellow, but I think it would also look pretty in shades of green. Here it the free pattern for my autumn garland.

Materials:
- Size E/4 crochet hook
- Worsted weight acrylic yarn in tan and brown for acorns and in colors of your choice for leaves
- Yarn needle
- Small amount of polyfil for stuffing acorns.

Stitches:
Chain (ch)
Double crochet (dc)
Double loop start or magic ring
Half double crochet (hdc)
Single crochet (sc)
Single crochet together/decrease (sc2tog)
Slip stitch (sl st)

With brown yarn, chain 315. This will be the base chain that you sew the leaves and acorns to.

OAK LEAF
With yarn in your choice of color
Ch 5
Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each chain across, ch 1, turn (4).
Row 2: 2 sc in first sc, sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in last sc, ch 1, turn (6).
Row 3: 2 sc in first sc, sc in next 4 sc, 2 sc in last sc, ch 1, turn (8).
Row 4: 2 sc in first sc, sc in next 6 sc, 2 sc in last sc, ch 1, turn (10).
Row 5: sc2tog, sc in next 6 sc, sc2tog, ch 1, turn (8).
Row 6: sc2tog, sc in next 4 sc, sc2tog, ch 1, turn (6).
Row 7: sc2tog, sc in next 2 sc, sc2tog, ch 1, turn (4).
Row 8: sc in each sc across, ch 1, turn (4).
Row 9: 2 sc in first sc, sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in last sc, ch 1, turn (6).
Row 10: sc in each sc across, ch 1, turn (6).
Row 11: 2 sc in first sc, sc in next 4 sc, 2 sc in last sc, ch 1, turn (8).
Row 12: sc2tog, sc in next 4 sc, sc2tog, ch 1, turn (6).
Row 13: sc2tog, sc in next 2 sc, sc2tog, ch 1, turn (4).
Row 14: [sc2tog] 2 times, ch 1, turn (2).
Row 15: sc2tog, ch 1, turn (1).
Row 16: 4 sc into remaining sc.
Finish off.
Stem:
Start by leaving a 6" tail
Ch 8
Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across.
Finish off leaving a 6" tail. Sew one end of stem to Row 1 of leaf and the other end of the stem to the foundation chain. I counted along 15 chains on the foundation chain and then sewed my first leaf to the chain. I placed all of the leaves and acorns 15 chains apart, leaving 15 free chains at the beginning and end of the foundation chain.

MAPLE LEAF: I followed the pattern here.

SMALLER LEAF:
Ch 7
Sc in 2nd ch from hook, hdc in next ch, dc in next 3 chs, [2hdc, ch 2, sc in 2nd ch from hook, 2hdc] in last ch. Working on opposite side of foundation chain, dc in next 3 chs, hdc in next ch, sc in last ch. Join with sl st into first sc of rnd.
Stem:
Start by leaving a 6" tail
Ch 7
Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across.
Finish off leaving a 6" tail. Sew one end of stem to the leaf and the other end of the stem to the foundation chain.

ACORN:
With tan yarn
Rnd 1: 6 sc into a double loop start and pull the loop closed (6).
Rnd 2: [sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc] 3 times (9).
Rnd 3: [sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 3 times (12).
Rnds 4-5: sc in each sc around (12).
Switch to brown yarn
Rnd 6: sl st in each sc around (12).
Row 7: sc in the tops of Rnd 5 behind the sl st in Rnd 6 (12). Stuff with polyfil.
Row 8: [sc2tog] 6 times (6).
Finish off leaving an 18" tail. Weave tail through remaining 6 sc and pull up firmly to close the hole. Insert your hook into the top center of the acorn and pull up a loop. Ch 5 to form the stem. Sew to foundation chain.

Deliciously Disgusting: Halloween Food for Kids

Well, October is almost over and I have barely posted anything to my blog! But between returning to work full-time after maternity leave, my husband having surgery and my grandmother passing away after a long battle with Parkinson's disease, it has been a busy and hectic month to say the least.

With my children's Halloween party around the corner I was surfing the web for great food ideas and found these. I can't wait to get started :)

Zombie Marshmallows by the decorated cookie (she has ghost, mummy and skeleton marshmallows and a ton of other Halloween goodies on her blog!)

Eyeball Truffles by GourmetMom

Monster Cake by Betty Crocker (Betty has a ton of great Halloween recipes too!)

Pumpkin Party Mix by Betty Crocker

Mummy Mia Pizza by Parents.com (I think you have register as a member to see the recipe)

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies by Betty Crocker

P.S. I have some free crochet patterns to post as soon as I find time to photograph them!

BUY 5 PATTERNS AND RECEIVE A 6TH ONE FREE!

Starting October 1st you can always receive a 6th pattern for free when you buy 5 patterns! The free pattern must be of equal or lesser value than the most expensive pattern you are buying. Please don't put the free pattern(s) in your cart, just note which free pattern(s) you want in the note to seller at checkout. Yay! Now you can stock up on patterns and get started making some Christmas gifts. I know I am going to try to make as many Christmas gifts as I can to save money this year. It seems like the Christmas spending gets more and more out of hand each year!

Yummy Crochet Giveaway Winner

And the winner is... JUDY! Congrats, Judy! I will be sending you an email shortly.

I also wanted to thank everyone for entering the giveaway and the kind comments that you left. You gals have some fantastic ideas for new patterns! Unfortunately, my maternity leave ends in 2 weeks (at which point I go back to work full time), so it may be a looooooong time before I'm able to design half the patterns I have on my list :(

I had a lot of fun working on Yummy Crochet so hopefully this isn't the last book that I contribute patterns to.

New Crochet Pattern: Birthday Cake

Hi, everyone! Here is a peak at my newest pattern for birthday cake, a candle, a cake server and party hats to fit a child and a doll. I'll have to have my niece over to model the party hats with her doll because I don't think I'll convince my sons to put on a pink hat :)

Free Crochet Patterns: Doctor Mask and Bandage

Here are a couple of freebies to go along with my doctor kit pattern. I hope you enjoy them :)

Materials:
Size E4 / 3.5mm crochet hook
Worsted weight acrylic yarn in peach, white and turquoise
Yarn needle
Velcro

Bandage:
With peach yarn
Ch 4
Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, ch 1, turn (3).
Row 2: 2sc in first sc, sc in next sc, 2 sc in last sc, ch 1, turn (5).
Rows 3-29: sc in each sc across, ch 1, turn (5).
Row 30: sc2tog, sc in next sc, sc2tog (3).
Sl st evenly around. Finish off and weave in ends.
Pad:
With white yarn
Ch 5
Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, ch 1, turn (4).
Rows 2-6: sc in each sc across, ch 1, turn (4).
Sc evenly around putting 3sc in each corner. Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing and sew to the center of the bandage. Weave in ends.
Cut 2 small squares of velcro. Sew the hook side to one end of the right side of the bandage. Sew the loop side to the other end of the wrong side of the bandage (so that the velcro meets when the bandage is folded into a loop).

Doctor's Mask:
With turquoise yarn
Ch 23
Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, ch 1, turn (22).
Rows 2-12: working in back loops only, sc in each sc across, ch 1, turn (22).
Continue to put 3 sc in the corner, sc down the side of the mask and put 3 sc in the corner, then working on the long side of the mask, sc in next 4 sc, hdc in next 3 sc, dc in next 8 sc, hdc in next 3 sc, sc in next 3 sc, put 3 sc in the corner, sc up the side of the mask, put 3 sc in the corner, then working along Row 12, sc in next 4 sc, hdc in next 3 sc, dc in next 8 sc, hdc in next 3 sc, sc in next 4 sc. Finish off and weave in ends.
Straps: make 2
Start by leaving a 6" tail for sewing
Ch 30 and finish off leaving a 6" tail for sewing.
Sew one end of the strap about 1" from the top of the mask. Sew the other end of the strap about 1/2" from the bottom of the mask. Weave in ends.

Yummy Crochet Giveaway and Free Pattern!

Some of you may remember this post from last year where I announced that I had some exiciting news. The time has come to let you know what it was...

Last year Kristen Rask, owner of Schmancy Toys, contacted me and asked if I would like to contrubute crochet patterns to her newest book. The book is called Yummy Crochet and features 12 different play food crochet patterns. Of course I said yes! Some of the first crochet patterns I ever designed were for crocheted vegetables so I chose to design the turnip and corn on the cob for the book. The book and kit (it comes with the materials necessary to make 2 of the projects) will be available at Barnes & Noble later this month.

Kristen was kind enough to provide a copy of the book so that I can do a giveaway. That's right, you can win a copy of Yummy Crochet!! All you need to do is leave a comment on this post with (1) your e-mail address (so I can contact you when you win) and (2) what crochet pattern you want me to design next. The winner will be chosen on September 15th. Good luck to everyone!!

To further celebrate the book's release (and because I love to crochet veggies!), I designed a free crochet pattern for bok choy. I hope you enjoy it :)


Materials:
- Crochet hook size E4 - 3.5mm
- Worsted weight acrylic yarn in white, light green and dark green
- Stuffing
- Yarn needle
- 2 black safety eyes
- Small amount of black yarn or thread for mouth
- Stitch markers - the pattern is worked in continuous rounds with the stitch marker moved up to the first stitch of each round.

With white yarn
Rnd 1: 6 sc into an adjustable ring and pull the ring closed (6).
Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (12).
Rnd 3: [Sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (18).
Rnd 4: [Sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (24).
Rnd 5: [Sc in next 3 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (30).
Rnd 6: sc in each sc around (30).
Rnd 7: [Sc in next 4 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (36).
Rnds 8-11: sc in each sc around (36).
Rnd 12: sc in next 4 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 3 sc, switch to white yarn and sc in next 6 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 2 sc, switch to white yarn and sc in next 5 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 3 sc, switch to white yarn and sc in next 11 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 2 sc (36).
Rnd 13: switch to white yarn and sc in next 3 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 5 sc, switch to white yarn and sc in next 4 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 4 sc, switch to white yarn and sc in next 3 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 5 sc, switch to white yarn and sc in next 6 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 2 sc, switch to white yarn and sc in next 2 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 2 sc (36).
Rnd 14: sc in next 9 sc, switch to white yarn and sc in next 2 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 5 sc, switch to white yarn and sc in next 2 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 8 sc, switch to white yarn and sc in next 3 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 7 sc (36).
Rnd 15: [sc in next 10 sc, sc2tog] 3 times (33).
Rnd 16: switch to dark green yarn and sc in next sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 4 sc, switch to dark green yarn and sc in next 2 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 8 sc, switch to dark green yarn and sc in next sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 6 sc, switch to dark green yarn and sc in next 2 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 9 sc (33).
Rnd 17: switch to dark green yarn and sc in next sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 3 sc, switch to dark green yarn and sc in next 2 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 4 sc, switch to dark green yarn and sc in next sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 3 sc, switch to dark green yarn and sc in next sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 5 sc, switch to dark green yarn and sc in next 3 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 5 sc, switch to dark green yarn and sc in next 2 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 3 sc (33).
Rnd 18: switch to dark green yarn and sc in next 2 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 2 sc, switch to dark green yarn and sc in next 3 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 2 sc, switch to dark green yarn, sc2tog and then sc in next in next sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next sc, switch to dark green yarn and sc in next 3 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 3 sc, switch to dark green yarn, sc2tog and then sc in next 2 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 4 sc, switch to dark green yarn and sc in next 3 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc2tog (30).
Rnd 19: switch to dark green yarn and sc in next 3 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next sc, switch to dark green yarn and sc in next 4 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next sc, switch to dark green yarn and sc in next 7 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 2 sc, switch to dark green yarn and sc in next 4 sc, switch to light green yarn and sc in next 2 sc, switch to dark green yarn and sc in next 6 sc (30).
Rnd 20: sc in each sc around (30).
Rnd 21: working in back loops only, sc in each sc around (30).
Rnd 22: [sc in next 3 sc, sc2tog] 6 times.
Pause crocheting. Attach the safety eyes. Using a needle and a length of black yarn split down to 2 ply, stitch on the mouth.
Stuff the bok choy firmly with stuffing.
Cut out a piece of cardboard that is the diameter of the opening of the top of the bok choy and insert it into the bok choy on top of the stuffing.
Rnd 23: [sc in next 2 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (18).
Rnd 24: [sc in next sc, sc2tog] 6 times (12).
Rnd 25: [sc2tog] 6 times (6).
Finish off leaving a 6" tail. Weave the tail through the remaining 6 sc and pull up firmly to close the hole. Weave in ends.
Leaves: make 9
With dark green yarn
Start by leaving a 12” tail
Ch 4
Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, ch 1, turn (3).
Row 2: sc in each sc across, ch 1, turn (3).
Row 3: 2sc in first sc, sc in next sc, 2sc in last sc, ch 1, turn (5).
Row 4: 2sc in frist sc, sc in next 3 sc, 2sc in last sc, ch 1, turn (7).
Row 5: 2sc in first sc, sc in next 5 sc, 2sc in last sc, ch 1, turn (9).
Rows 6-12: sc in each sc across, ch 1, turn (9).
Row 13: sc2tog, sc in each sc across, ch 1, turn (8).
Row 14: sc2tog, sc in each sc across, ch 1, turn (7).
Row 15: sc2tog, sc in each sc across, ch 1, turn (6).
Row 16: sc2tog, sc in each sc across, ch 1, turn (5).
Row 17: sc2tog, sc in each sc across, ch 1, turn (4).
Row 18: sc2tog, sc in each sc across, ch 1, turn (3).
Row 19: sc2tog, sc in next sc, ch 1, turn (2).
Row 20: sc2tog (1).
Sc evenly around.
Three of the leaves are sewn to the top center of the bok choy (i.e., around Rnds 23-25) using the tail that you started with. The remaining 6 leaves are sewn to the free loops on Rnd 21 along 5 loops. In order to keep the leaves standing up, tack one leaf to the leaf next to it, overlapping them here and there, using a needle and a length of dark green yarn.
Weave in all ends.

New Crochet Pattern: Fast Food Breakfast

Well, I seem to be on a breakfast kick these days. My newest crochet pattern is for a fast food breakfast -- egg McMuffin (or sausage McMuffin or sausauge & egg McMuffin), hash brown, coffee and orange juice. One more breakfast pattern is in the works :)

New Crochet Pattern: Waffles, Pancakes & Syrup

As promised, here is a new crochet pattern for belgian waffles, pancakes, and the syrup, butter, banana slices, whipped cream and strawberries to top them with. If you purchased the breakfast pattern from me and want the updated pattern for free just send me a Convo through Etsy and I will email it to you. If you could please include the date that you purchased the breakfast pattern from me that will help me find you in my records. Thank you :)

Free Crochet Pattern: Plum

Materials:
Crochet hook size E4 - 3.5mm
Worsted weight acrylic yarn in purple and brown
Stuffing
Yarn needle

With purple yarn
Rnd 1: 6 sc into a magic adjustable ring and pull the ring closed (6).
Rnd 2: [sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc] 3 times (9).
Rnd 3: [sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 3 times (12).
Rnd 4: [sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (18).
Rnd 5: [sc in next 8 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 2 times (20).
Rnd 6: [sc in next 9 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 2 times (22).
Rnd 7: [sc in next 10 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 2 times (24).
Rnds 8-11: sc in each sc around (24).
Rnd 12: [sc in next 2 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (18).
Rnd 13: [sc in next sc, sc2tog] 6 times (12) Stuff.
Rnd 14: [sc2tog] 6 times (6).
Finish off leaving a long (12” or so) tail. Weave long end through remaining 6 sc and draw up firmly to close the hole.
Using a yarn needle, run the tail along the outside of the plum, insert it through the bottom of the plum and come out of the top of the plum to create the “crease” in the side. Repeat this step again. Secure end.

Stem:
With brown yarn, ch 6.
Sl st in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across.
Finish off, leaving long end for sewing. Sew stem to plum.

Free Crochet Pattern: Peach

Materials:
Crochet hook size E4 - 3.5mm
Worsted weight acrylic yarn in orange, green and brown
Stuffing
Yarn needle

With orange yarn
Rnd 1: 6 sc into a magic adjustable ring and pull the ring closed (6).
Rnd 2: [sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc] 3 times (9).
Rnd 3: [sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 3 times (12).
Rnd 4: [sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (18).
Rnd 5: [sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (24).
Rnd 6: [sc in next 11 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 2 times (26).
Rnd 7: [sc in next 12 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 2 times (28).
Rnd 8: [sc in next 13 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 2 times (30).
Rnd 9: sc in each sc around (30).
Rnd 10: [sc in next 4 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (36).
Rnd 11: sc in each sc around (36).
Rnd 12: [sc in next 4 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (30).
Rnd 13: [sc in next 3 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (24).
Rnd 14: [sc in next 2 sc, sc2tog] 6 times (18).
Rnd 15: [sc in next sc, sc2tog] 6 times (12) Stuff.
Rnd 16: [sc2tog] 6 times (6).
Finish off leaving a long (12” or so) tail. Weave long end through remaining 6 sc and draw up firmly to close the hole.
Using a yarn needle, run the tail along the outside of the peach, insert it through the bottom of the peach and come out of the top of peach to create the “crease” in
the side. Repeat this step again.

Stem:
With brown yarn, ch 6.
Sl st in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across.
Finish off, leaving long end.

Leaf:
With green yarn, ch 7.
Sl st in 2nd ch from hook and in next 2 chs, ch 2, dc in next 2
chs, 4 dc in last ch, working on opposite side of the foundation chain, dc in next 2 chs, hdc in next ch, sl st in remaining ch. Finish off.
Sew stem to peach and sew leaf to stem. Weave in ends.

New Crochet Pattern: Bacon, Eggs, Toast & Orange Juice

Here is my newest pattern for play food -- bacon, eggs, toast and orange juice. I am also working on one for pancakes, waffles and syrup that I hope to finish next week :)

New Crochet Pattern: Baby Doll Carrier & Portable Bassinet

Here is my newest crochet pattern that my niece was kind enough to model for me -- a Baby Bjorn and a portable bassinet for baby dolls! My niece doesn't know it yet but she's going to receive the baby doll, diaper bag, baby bjorn carrier and portable bassinet for Christmas :)

Now your little girl can take her baby doll with her everywhere! The baby carrier can be used with the doll facing forward or facing your child. And this pattern only involves knowledge of a few basic stitches and is suitable for a newbie crocheter.