Polypropylene filter material for face masks

I know a lot of people are making face masks while we're in this pandemic for the Corona Virus, and even though professional sources say that they're not very effective, any type of barrier is better than none.  I won't share patterns here, since there are dozens of blog posts and video tutorials for that already.

To make the plain cotton masks a little more effective, it's suggested to make them with a pocket where you can add some type of removable filter.  The commercial N95 masks are made with a high grade of polypropylene material and while that would be near impossible to find outside of a hospital supply setting, I did find OLY*Fun - a similar fabric - at my local Walmart.

DISCLAIMER:   This product is NOT the same grade as the commercial N95 medical masks, but it IS made of the same basic non-woven, water-resistant material (polypropylene), so will filter more junk than cotton fabric alone.  Again, even if it won't stop ALL manner of buggy stuff from entering your nose and mouth, it's an added wall of defense, and I don't think anyone would scoff at that.

I'm going to wipe down my scissors and work-space with alcohol, then cut the OLY*Fun into appropriately sized pieces immediately after washing my hands, then put directly into ziploc bags so they'll be untouched and won't have come into contact with anything in my home that might be tainted.  I'll then send that baggie of filters to my son with a couple of the cotton masks, which will be washable/reusable.

I found it online by the bolt, but when I limited to local stores, none of it showed up (even the small rolls like I have here).  I found mine in the fabric department of my store in Jacksonville NC, in the same aisle as the quilt batting.  One roll measures 3 yd x 30 in, enough to make a good amount of filters.  Bonus:  It was on sale for only $2/roll!  I wish they'd had white, but black will work for the masks I'm making for my son, and I'll make do with yellow for some of the brighter cotton fabrics I'll be using.

Since I don't want the CDC or any other Big Brother entity to come down on me, I'll stress again - this material is NOT a replacement for medical grade P95 masks, but it IS an extra barrier in our line of defense against this crazy COVID-19 bug that's infiltrated our masses.

Be safe.

~ Marie Anne

Latest Project - Daisy in the Corner Granny Square

When you fall in love with a pattern you see shared on Facebook, you have to go buy the yarn to start it right away, no matter how many other projects you having going on, right?  That's a rule, right?  RIGHT?

The Daisy in the Corner pattern came across my feed and I was immediately hooked.  It's an easy pattern to follow, with a little bit of a spin on the traditional granny square.

I loved the way the designer made it with the two shades of two different colors, and wanted to somewhat replicate that, without being exactly those colors.  I had a tough time finding shades that would work, but finally settled on purples and oranges.  Not a combination I would ever have thought about previously, but I think it works ok. 

After looking at just these four squares, I think I might try joining them with all four daisies pointing towards the middle, instead of the same way at lower left.  I think that'll give it a completely different look, but will have to do the math and see if four blocks made into a larger block will work out for an appropriate length and width.  Look for that post soon.

I think this pattern is also a great way to use up scraps of yarn from your stash.  You could keep the center and daisy the same throughout, add bits of whatever colors you have for the portion around the daisy, then use a common color for the join.  It would end up being a very colorful, somewhat scrappy-with-a-pulled-together-look sorta afghan.  I think I'm going to save my scraps to do just that.

What's on your hook today?

~ Marie Anne

Crochet Withdrawal, and Wanting to Try Something New

I haven't picked up a crochet hook in a month or more, and I think I'm going into withdrawal.  I had been crocheting dishcloths while watching TV and walking in place to get my steps in, but switched to reading books while walking figure 8s in the hotel room.  Hey, whatever works, right?  But while I love to read, it's not giving me any tangible results for my efforts, ya know?  I think I need to find balance.

I bought a cone of ecru cotton yarn a few weeks ago, intending to make some Swiffer-type cloths, but there it sits, with the paper wrapper still intact.  I do need to get that pattern written and published as it's not doing anyone any good filed away in my head.  Someone give me a push!

What prompted me to write this blog post, though, was a pattern for this pretty Gardenia Shawl I saw on Facebook this morning.  I haven't worked with thread in a bit because that requires sitting down and concentrating a little more than dishcloths (that I could likely do blindfolded) and I can't do that while walking in a hotel room.  I'm stuck sitting here so much that I need to find things that will allow me to keep moving in my limited living area (yes, I'm still displaced from Hurricane Florence, 7 1/2 months later).

Anyway, the pattern I saw this morning really caught my eye and I wondered if my fingers could manage to turn out something so pretty.  Looking further at the instructions and materials needed, I saw that it required Aunt Lydia's size 3 thread (usually used for apparel) which I'd never worked with before.  It also calls for a larger crochet hook (4mm/G) than one would normally use for thinner thread, as with doilies.

So now I'm tempted to see if any local stores carry the size thread needed to make this shawl, and give it a try.  What's the worst that can happen?  I spend a couple of bucks on a ball of thread that I won't use ... not a big deal.  I really do want to give this a good effort as I love the look of this shawl, and it would be perfect for church when I never know how warm or cool it will be in the sanctuary on any given day.  A lacy shawl would give just a bit of coverage if the air conditioning is a bit too much, but also flimsy enough to shrug off and set aside without taking up any room. And in the current spring season, sometimes it's still a bit chilly when I head out to church, but hot as blazes when coming out.  A lightweight shawl would take care of a couple of 'what to wear' dilemmas nicely.

Have you ever crocheted with size 3/apparel thread?  What did you make?  I'd love to hear about and see some of your projects!

~ Marie Anne

More Dishcloths and Swiffer Sweeper Cloth for WIP Wednesday

Since I'm still in a hotel more than six months after the hurricane, I don't have the space to work on larger projects, so dishcloths it is!  I've been trying to get more mileage in but still have injuries that prevent me from walking much outside, so I step in place while crocheting dishcloths and watching TV.  Since my stack of dishcloths is growing, I need to figure out what to do with them all.  I do have an Etsy shop but don't get a lot of traffic there, so might try selling locally or through Facebook.  If you'd like some, give me a shout!

I also broke down and bought a generic Swiffer-type sweeper at Aldi last week, and since I'm too cheap to buy the replacement cloths, I'm going to make my own.  There are a lot of crochet patterns already out there, but I think the stitch that I use for my Gentle Ridges Dishcloth (free pattern) will be good for something like this, so I'm working one up now.  If I can get the dimensions right, you'll see that pattern listed here soon.


That's what's on my hook this week.  What're you working on?  Link up below!

~ Marie Anne

To link up with WIP Wednesday, make a blog, Facebook, Pinterest, or Instagram post about something that you're working on - any type of craft, DIY, renovation project, landscaping - even that novel you're writing.  Link your post by clicking on 'click here to enter' below so that my other readers can see what you're up to.  Make sure to link back to me in your post too!  

Simple Shell Dishcloth - Free Crochet Pattern

Homemade dishcloths make great gifts, and are quick and easy to make.  A single ball of kitchen cotton yarn will make two dishcloths (depending on pattern), so make several to keep in your gift closet for last minute gift giving.

They’re also nice as face or washcloths for the bath and shower, so pair some of your crocheted cloths with a bar of handmade soap or a fancy body wash for a housewarming or hostess gift that any woman would love. This simple shell pattern would look especially nice in a bathroom with a seashell or ocean/beach themed décor.

If sharing this pattern, please share the link to this blog post. You may print a copy for your personal use, but please don’t print copies to share with others.

Simple Shell Dishcloth Pattern

Abbreviations:

Ch = chain
SC = single crochet
DC = double crochet
HDC =half-double crochet
Sk = skip
St = stitches

With kitchen cotton yarn and size H (5.0mm) crochet hook, ch 30

Row 1:  2 DC in 3rd ch from hook, *sk 2 ch, SC in next ch, sk 2 ch, 5 DC in next ch, repeat from *, ending with sk 2 ch, 3 DC in last ch.  Ch 1, turn.

Row 2:  SC in first st, *sk 2, work 5 DC in next st, sk 2, SC in next st.  Repeat from * across. Ch 3, turn.

Row 3:  Work 2 DC in first st, * sk 2, work SC in next st, sk 2, 5 DC in next st.  Repeat from * across, ending with 3 DC in last stitch.

Repeat rows 2-3 until you have 15 rows, ending with row 3.  Ch 1, turn.

Row 16/finishing row:  Sk first st, *HDC in next two sts, DC in next st, HDC in next two sts, SC in next st; repeat from * across. Finish with SC border around remaining three sides. 

Simple, right?  Enjoy!

~ Marie Anne

P.S.  A copy that's printable without the ads and wonky formatting is paired with another of my favorite cloths in my Etsy Shop, The Crooked Yarn (look for listing titled Two Easy Crochet Dishcloth Patterns).

Easy Woven Look Baby Blanket - Free Crochet Pattern

This baby blanket is simple enough for a beginner, but pretty enough for gift giving. Worked in single crochet only, changing colors with each row makes the woven appearance even more unique. The simple stitch works up quickly, which more than compensates for the numerous color changes and weaving in so many ends.

I've used this stitch for a scarf pattern in a single color and decided to try using several colors for a different look in a blanket. As written, the pattern is worked in four colors, but would also make a good stash-buster project. Try using black or white as your main color and alternate every other row with whatever yarn scraps you have left in your stash.

This baby blanket pattern is provided free and may not be sold. You may sell the items you make from the pattern, but you may not sell the pattern itself.  You may print a copy for yourself, but if sharing with friends, please give them the link to this blog post.  Thanks for respecting my efforts to provide free patterns for you!

Skill Level - Beginner
Gauge - Not Important

Pattern Directions for Woven Look Baby Blanket

Abbreviations:

ch = chain
sc = single crochet
sk = skip
sp = space

Size I crochet hook and starting chain of 124 and worsted weight yarn should result in a blanket approximately 34" wide. To adjust the width, simply increase or decrease the starting chain in increments of two.

The colors I used for the blanket in the photo are:

MC (main color) = white
A = Lavender
B = Cornmeal
C = Honeydew

Pattern sequence will be one row of each color as follows:

A, MC, B, MC, A, MC, C, MC, repeating sequence until piece is desired length, ending with MC.

Foundation:  With size I hook and color A, ch 124.

Row 1: SC in second ch from hook, *ch 1, sk 1 ch, sc in next. Repeat from *, ending with sc in last ch. Leaving tail, cut yarn but do not bind off. Attach MC as indicated above, ch 2, turn.

Row 2: SC in first ch 1 sp, *ch 1, sc in next ch 1 sp. Repeat from *, ending with sc in turning ch. Leaving tail, cut yarn but do not bind off. Attach color B, chain 2, turn.

Repeat row 2 alternating colors each row as indicated above until you reach desired length. Bind off, weave in all ends. For a more finished look, add a simple sc border around the blanket, putting 3 sc stitches in each corner.

Choosing different color combinations can make each blanket truly unique, so don't be afraid to experiment.  Can't deal with weaving in all those tails?  Tie them off to make fringe!

Enjoy!

~ Marie Anne

P.S.  Make sure to check out my other free crochet patterns!

Baby Washcloths, Hand Piecing, and Publishing Patterns - WIP Wednesday

It's been a busy week for me!  I've been digging out old crochet (and a few knit) patterns that I had previously published elsewhere, and working on getting them posted here on the blog again. I've made good progress, but still have more to go, and I've hit a snag in that there are a few that I can't find the written patterns for anywhere.  There's a chance I still have some of them in a folder somewhere, but who knows where that is as I have belongings scattered in several locations (I'm still displaced from Hurricane Florence almost 5 months ago).  Would have been nice if I'd had more notice from Craftsy and could have saved them before they shut it all down, but I'll work it out.

I also picked up knitting needles again and tried to work up a dishcloth pattern that I had written years ago, and that didn't work out too well.  I had written it from a charted pattern and no longer have the chart, and what I'd written definitely had some issues as it didn't look at all like what I expected.  Oops.

Baby washcloths

An online friend who is expecting another little one asked if I'd make some baby washcloths, so that's one of the things I'm working on this week.  I'm using my dishcloth patterns and just making them a little smaller.  I should be able to finish those up in the next couple of days, in between everything else I've got my hands into.

Block #4

 I'm still trying to keep up with the hand-pieced QAL (quilt along) with Elm Street Quilts and Simple. Handmade. Everyday. , and this week is block #4.  I suck at cutting accurately, and these small pieces has made it especially difficult.  My block #3 last week was so bad that I didn't even finish it, but I might revisit it later if I have enough fabric.  I just can't devote the time to it now when aggravation is the last thing I need more of.  This is supposed to be a relaxing, enjoyable craft!  I do enjoy hand piecing and I've still got two other projects of my own that I'm working on, but this QAL is proving to be more of a challenge due to my less-than-accurate cutting skills.

Blocks 1, 2, and 4 (block 3 didn't make the 'cut')

So ... I've got enough projects to keep me busy for a good while.  What have you been working on?  Link up below!  It'll be open until next Wednesday.

~ Marie Anne

To link up with WIP Wednesday, make a blog post about something that you're working on - any type of craft, DIY, renovation project, landscaping - even that novel you're writing.  Link your blog post by clicking on 'click here to enter' below.  Make sure to link back to me in your blog post too!  (Not blogging?  You can also link up with a Pinterest or Instagram post).

Classically Simple Shell Afghan - Free Crochet Pattern

This afghan is made from a very simple shell crochet stitch that can be mastered by a beginner, yet result in a beautiful throw that anyone would be pleased to own.  It's pretty enough to satisfy someone who is more advanced in the art of crochet but wants a simple project to work on that doesn't take a lot of concentration, and easy enough for a novice to complete a beautiful afghan or baby blanket.

While it could be crocheted in a striped manner in your choice of colors, I prefer the look of a single color for this particular afghan pattern.  The blanket works up very quickly and requires only a basic knowledge of the single and either half-double or double crochet stitches and virtually no counting - easy to work on while watching TV without having to worry about losing your place.

Materials needed

Size K crochet hook
Worsted weight yarn in the color of your choice
(5 7-oz skeins should yield an afghan approximately 52" wide x 54" long)

Abbreviations

Ch=chain
SC = single crochet
DC = double crochet
HDC = half-double crochet

The starting chain is a multiple of 3 plus 1.  A chain of 145 should result in an afghan approximately 52" wide.  To make a baby blanket that is 30" wide, start with a chain of 91.  To make larger or smaller, simple add or subtract in increments of 3.

Classically Simple Shell Pattern Directions

With size K crochet hook and worsted weight yarn, ch 145 for afghan, or 91 for baby blanket.

Row 1:  SC in second ch from hook and SC in each remaining stitch across.  Ch 3, turn.

Row 2:  *Skip first two stitches 3 DC in third stitch (all 3 in same stitch), skip two stitches.  Repeat from *, ending with DC in last stitch (turning ch).   Ch 2, turn.

Row 3:  Skip first stitch, HDC across row.  Ch 3, turn.

Repeat rows 2 and 3 for pattern, until afghan measures the desired length.

Last row:  After final row 2 of pattern (shell row), ch 1, turn.  SC in second stitch and remaining stitches across.  Bind off, weave in ends.

Close up of afghan made from pattern  as
written with the HDC rows between shell rows

Note:  I have also made this afghan with a row of DC between the rows of shells, instead of the HDC rows.  It works up quicker with the DC rows, but I personally think it looks more tidy with the HDC.  You might want to work up a swatch doing it with both the HDC and the DC rows to see which way you like better before starting on a large afghan.  A starting ch of 16 should give you swatches large enough to get a good idea of the how the pattern will look.

Enjoy!

~ Marie Anne

P.S.  Don't forget to check out the rest of my free crochet patterns!

Anything But Drab Scarf - Free Crochet Pattern

The olive drab color of this scarf prompted the name of the pattern, but it really is anything but drab. This easy to crochet scarf makes a great set when paired with the matching Anything But Drab Hat.

With the slightly raised texture from working in the back loop only of some of the pattern rows, the finished scarf and hat have almost an Aran or fisherman's knit look to them. I think if you were to work up a set in an Aran or off-white color, it would more closely mimic that effect.

At approximately 4" wide, it doesn't quite fit into the skinny scarf category, but it's not big and bulky either. As written, the pattern will yield a scarf approximately 60" long, but if you'd like a longer scarf to wrap multiple times or to fold in half and feed the ends through, increase the starting chain in increments of 6 to increase the length by 2" for each increment added.  (This scarf is crocheted lengthwise and not by the width, which is the norm).

Anything But Drab Scarf Pattern

Abbreviations:

Ch = chain
Sk = skip
SC = single crochet
DC = double crochet
BLO = back loop only

Foundation: With size I crochet hook and worsted weight yarn, ch 180.

Row 1: In back bump of chain, SC in second ch from hook and SC across (179 SC). Ch 1, turn. (Note: Working in the back bump of chain isn't required, but gives the piece a much cleaner, finished look).

Row 2-4: SC across (179 SC). Ch 1, turn (ch 2 at the end of row 4).

Row 5-9: DC in first st (turning ch becomes the SC), *sk 1, work SC and DC in BLO of next st. Repeat from * across, ending with regular SC in last st. Ch 2, turn (end of row 9, ch 1).

Row 10: SC in first st, SC across in BLO, ending with regular SC in last st. Ch 1, turn.

Row 11-12: SC across (NOT in BLO). Leaving a short tail, cut yarn and pull through last stitch. Weave in ends.

You may print a copy of this pattern for personal use, but if sharing the pattern with friends, please send them the link to the pattern here instead of making printed copies. 

Enjoy!

~ Marie Anne

P.S.  Don't forget to check out the rest of my free crochet patterns!

Anything But Drab Hat - Free Crochet Pattern

The Anything But Drab Hat is perfect for when you want something easy to crochet, but with a little more definition to it. It's worked in a simple rectangle with a sequence of four rows each of two different stitches. Once completed, stitch the two ends together and gather at the top and you've got one great looking hat that's anything but drab!

One of the pattern stitches is worked in the back loop only (BLO), so it makes a slight ridge for a more textured look. Neither stitch is difficult and even a beginner should be able to complete this cute hat in just a few hours.

The pattern as written is sized for a woman and I think it's more suitable for her rather than him. A darker color could be used for a more masculine looking hat, but you'd have to do some tinkering with the number of pattern rows to make it larger to fit a man.

My prototype was stitched in an olive drab hue but choose whatever color you like to make your hat
Anything But Drab.  Pair it with the Anything But Drab Scarf  for a nice set to get you through those cold mornings.

Anything But Drab Hat Pattern

Abbreviations:

Ch = chain
Sk = skip
SC = single crochet
DC = double crochet
BLO = back loop only

Foundation: With size I crochet hook and worsted weight yarn, ch 29.

Row 1: DC third ch fr hook, *sk 1, SC and DC in next space. Repeat from * across, ending with one SC in last ch. Ch 2, turn.

Rows 2: DC in first st (the turning ch becomes the first SC of that row), *sk 1, work SC and DC in BLO of next space. Repeat from * across, ending with a regular SC in last ch. Ch 2, turn.

Rows 3-4: Repeat row 2, but at end of row 4, ch 1 instead of 2.

Rows 5-8: SC in each stitch across (27 SC). Ch 1 at the end of the first three rows, but ch 2 at the end of the fourth row when you'll be switching to the other pattern stitch.

Continue in a sequence of four rows of the SC/DC cluster in BLO and four rows of the SC until you have a total of 56 rows (ending with the four rows of SC). Do not cut yarn.

Finishing: Fold the piece and slip stitch through top stitches the full length of both first and last row. Leave a tail of approximately 18" and cut the yarn.

Thread tail of yarn onto a large needle and weave through every few stitches at top of hat, going completely around until you end where you started. Pull yarn taut to gather tightly. There might still be a small opening at the top of the hat, so take a few more stitches going from the top of one side of the opening to the other and pull tightly. Work a few stitches to hide tail and cut yarn.  If desired, you could even make a pompom for the top of the hat.

Enjoy!

~ Marie Anne

P.S.  Don't forget to check out the rest of my free crochet patterns.

Almost Reversible Baby Blanket - Free Crochet Pattern

You can see that the black is more prominent on
one side, while the reverse looks a little lighter

This puffy shell crochet pattern can be made in two (one light and one dark) or four (two light and two dark) colors.   It’s not completely reversible in that both sides are totally different, but five DCs worked into one stitch makes it a slightly puffy, so the light colors will be more prominent on one side, the dark on the other.

Using four colors won’t be quite as vibrant as the black and white version, but the intensity of the colors will look different on each side as long as you alternate the rows of light and dark colors. It doesn’t matter which color you start with, as long as you repeat the pattern of one row of light, then one row of dark. For a border, work a few rows of single crochet alternating two or more of the colors used in the afghan, or single crochet in one or two colors and then a shell border to give the blanket a finished look.

This pattern can also be made into a full sized afghan, but it can be time consuming to change colors for every row, and then have so many ends to weave in. The shell pattern itself is very easy to crochet, but if changing colors and dealing with those pesky tails is tedious for you, keep that in mind before attempting this pattern to make larger than a baby or lap blanket.

The pattern can be worked in a single color and the shells will still be somewhat puffy, but obviously won’t have the reversible effect.

Materials needed:

Crochet hook size J
Any worsted weight yarn in contrasting light and dark colors
Yarn needle to weave in ends

Abbreviations:

Ch = chain
SC = single crochet
DC = double crochet
HDC = half-double crochet
SK = skip
ST = stitch

Dimensions:

The starting chain should be a multiple of 6 plus 2, and each multiple of 6 (two shells) measures just under 2”. The following dimensions are approximate, and are before adding your choice of border:

30” wide = chain 98
44” wide = chain 146

Almost Reversible Shell Pattern

For a blanket worked in four colors, colors A and C will be the darker colors, and colors B and D will be the lighter colors. If using only two colors, just alternate A and B.

Note: Color A will also be the first row of SC border around the finished blanket.

For a 30” blanket, ch 98 with color A.

Row 1: Sc in 2d ch from hook and in each ch across; leave tail and cut yarn.

Row 2: Attach color B, ch 1, turn. SC in first st, *sk 2, work 5 DC in next st, sk 2, sc in next st. Repeat from * across; leave tail and cut yarn.

Row 3: Attach color C, ch 3 (counts as first DC), turn. Work 2 DC in first st, * sk 2, work SC in next st, sk 2, 5 DC in next st. Repeat from * across, ending with 3 DC in last stitch.

Row 4: Attach color D, repeat row 2.

(You’ll be making a SC at the peak of the shell in the previous row, and the 5 DC shell in the valley between two shells in the previous row).

Repeat pattern rows 2 and 3 until desired length, ending with row 3.

Last row: Attach color A, ch 1, turn. SC in first DC, *HDC in next 2 DC, DC in SC, HDC in next 2 DC, SC in next DC, repeat from * to end. This will make the top of the afghan even, instead of leaving the scalloped shell at the top, and becomes the top border. SC down both sides with color A to complete the first row of border. Add additional rows of SC and/or a shell border to complete.

Enjoy!

~ Marie Anne

P.S.  Make sure to check out more of my free crochet patterns.

Circle in the Square - Free Crochet Granny Square Pattern

I like simple crochet patterns, but I also like something that doesn't look too basic.  I think this Circle in the Square granny square pattern fits both of those nicely.  This square is easy enough to make, but I think that starting out as a circle adds an interesting element of design.  It really pops if you crochet it in contrasting light and bright or dark colors.

Materials Needed

Size I crochet hook
Two contrasting colors of worsted weight yarn
Large needle to weave in ends

Abbreviations

Ch = chain
St = stitch
Sl st = slip stitch
Sk = skip
SC = single crochet
DC = double crochet
HDC = half double crochet

Circle in the Square Pattern

Using size I crochet hook and worsted weight yarn will result in a 6" granny square

With Color A, ch 5, join with slip stitch to first ch.

Round 1:  Ch 2 (counts as first HDC at beginning of rounds 1-3), work 17 more HDC in the circle for a total of 18 HDC.  Join with sl st to top of beginning ch 2/HDC.

Round 2:  Ch 2, work 1 HDC in each stitch around, for a total of 18 HDC.  Join with sl st to top of beginning ch 2/HDC.

Round 3:  Ch 2, 1 HDC in same space, work 2 HDC in each stitch around, total of 36 HDC.  Join with sl st to top of first ch 2/HDC.  Finish off.

Round 4:  Join Color B in any stitch.  Ch 3 (counts as first DC at beginning of rounds 4-5), DC in same space, * DC in next st, HDC in next 2 st, SC in next 2 st, HDC in next 2 st, DC in next st, (2 DC, ch 2, 2 DC) in next st (making corner).  Repeat from * to complete other 3 sides, ending with 2 DC in beginning corner, ch 2, sl st to join to beginning ch 2/DC.

Round 5:  Ch 3, DC in same space, * DC in next 10 st, sk last DC, work (2 DC, ch 2, 2 DC) in corner, repeat from * to complete other 3 sides, ending with 2 DC in last corner, ch 2, sl st to top of first ch 3/DC.  Finish off.

Border:  Join Color A in any stitch.  Ch 1, SC around all four sides, working (SC, ch 2, SC) in each corner.  Sl st to join to initial ch.  Finish off, weave in ends.

Enjoy!

Marie Anne

P.S.  Make sure to check out the rest of my free crochet patterns.

Gentle Ridges - Free Crochet Dishcloth Pattern

I'm no fancy designer and like to crochet simple things, so I played around with a favorite crochet stitch and threw this little number together pretty quickly.  I think it's the first crochet pattern I wrote down, and that was years ago! Everyone I've shared the pattern with has proclaimed it to be a hit because of its simplicity and functionality, while still being an attractive piece.

I prefer a crochet dishcloth that has a little bit of a raised stitch and even keep a few set aside that I use strictly as washcloths - they're perfect in the bath for gentle exfoliating without being too rough on the skin.  I think this pattern works well in the bath or shower as well as the kitchen.

Gentle Ridges Crochet Dishcloth Pattern

Finished size is approximately 8" x 8"

Materials needed

Size H crochet hook
Any kitchen cotton yarn

Abbreviations

DC = double crochet
SC = single crochet
SK = skip
Ch = chain
St = stitch
Sl St = slip stitch

With size H crochet hook and any kitchen cotton yarn, ch 31

Row 1:  DC in 3rd ch from hook, sk 1, * SC and DC in next ch, sk 1.  Repeat from * to end of row, ending with SC in last stitch.  Ch 2, turn.

(Rows 2-20 are worked in back loop only, except for the first and last stitch)

Row 2-20:  DC in 1st st, sk 1, * working in back loop only, SC and DC in next space, sk 1.  Repeat from * to end of row, ending with SC in last st.  Ch 2, turn.

Finishing:  After completing last st in row 20, SC/ch 1/SC in that corner space, continue to SC around all sides of piece, with SC/ch 1/SC in corners.  Join with sl st to first SC in first corner worked.  Bind off and work in ends.

This pattern can also be adapted to make hot pads/trivets.  Simply make two dishcloths the same size and place one on top of the other and stitch together around outer edges.  You can easily vary the size of the hot pad by increasing the starting chain and/or number of rows.  I also like to make them long and wide enough to fit beneath an oblong or rectangular casserole dish.

For gift-giving, fold, or roll a couple of coordinating dishcloths, tie with raffia, and tuck into a small basket with a bottle of eco-friendly dish soap.  Nestle a pair of washcloths alongside a bar of homemade soap or moisturizing shower gel, then add a scented candle or diffusers and oil for the gift of a truly luxurious bathing experience.  They would be a great gift for a teacher, housewarming, etc.

Enjoy!

 ~ Marie Anne

P.S.  Make sure to check out the rest of my free crochet patterns.

Easy Single Double Dishcloth - Free Crochet Pattern

This super simple dishcloth pattern is a favorite of mine. It can be completed by even a beginner and would make a good first project to teach someone who has never held a crochet hook before. I call it the “Single Double Dishcloth” because that’s all there is to it - a single crochet and a double crochet stitch. You should be able to get two dishcloths out of one 2.5 oz ball of any kitchen cotton yarn.

Abbreviations:

Ch = chain
SC = single crochet
DC = double crochet
Sk = skip

Simple single double dishcloth pattern 

With size H (5.0mm) crochet hook, ch 27
(Starting ch 27 of should give you a cloth that measures approximately 8 ½”. If you’d like a cloth that’s larger or smaller, add or subtract in increments or two. Your starting chain should be an odd number.)

Row 1: DC in 3rd ch from hook,* SC next ch, DC, next ch. Repeat from * to end, ch 1, turn.

Row 2: Sk 1st st, DC next st, *SC next st, DC next, st. Repeat from *, ending with DC in turning ch.

Repeat row 2 until piece looks square. On final row, work SC in the last st (turning ch) instead of a DC. (Work the rest of the row the same as previous rows, DC and SC across, except you’ll end with SC in the last 2 sts instead of SC then DC in turning ch).

If desired, work a SC border around all four sides to finish off. In the photos above, the blue is without a border, and the ecru is with SC border.  I usually put a border around all of my crochet dishcloths just because I think it holds the shape better, but it's not required.

That’s it! You’ll be making your SC on top of where a DC was in the previous row, and a DC on top of where the SC was in the previous row, so that the rows won’t be uneven.

Enjoy ...

~ Marie Anne

P.S.  If you'd like to print a copy of the pattern without the ads and wonky formatting, you can purchase it from my Etsy Shop, The Crooked Yarn.  It's included with another of my favorite dishcloth patterns in the listing called 2 Easy Dishcloth Patterns.

Busted Out the Knitting Needles for WIP Wednesday

I woke early and while going about my morning ablutions, out of the blue I felt the urge to knit something.  Now I don't knit often, so it was a strange feeling for me.  I attribute it to working on re-writing a couple of knitted dishcloth patterns and posting them to this blog in the last few days (you can find them by clicking here on knitting patterns, or the tab at the top of the page).

So rather than fight it, I decided to embrace that call to knit.  One problem ... I don't have any knitting needles here at the hotel.

I had to wait for dog #2 to wake up before I could remedy that, but after tea, toast, gathering laundry, and walking both dogs (second walk for dog #1), I walked over to Walmart to pick up some knitting needles, and was back home before 8am.

So today's WIP Wednesday will be knitting a dishcloth from another pattern that I wrote, so that I can publish it later too.  This one will (hopefully) have a 'picture' in the raised stitching.  Watch for that (and maybe even one more) to be added to the free knitting patterns page in the very near future.

So ... what're you working on?  Link up below!

~ Marie Anne

To link up with WIP Wednesday, make a blog post about something that you're working on - any type of craft, DIY, renovation project, landscaping - even that novel you're writing.  Link your blog post by clicking on 'click here to enter' below.  Make sure to link back to me in your blog post too!  (You can also link up with your Pinterest or  Instagram post).

Simple 7" Granny Square - Free Crochet Pattern

Redneck showing off the granny squares
assembled into an afghan

Granny squares can be joined together to make so many things - afghans and baby blankets, shawls and wraps, even scarves and purses.  This easy pattern is similar to the traditional granny but with a slight variation of rounds of single crochet and double crochet in place of some of the cluster rounds.  There are no fancy stitches in this granny square, so even a beginner who knows how to crochet in the round should be able to master it with no difficulty.

Abbreviations:

Ch = chain
SC = single crochet
DC = double crochet

Materials needed:

Crochet hook size I
Three colors of worsted weight yarn (listed as Colors A, B, and C)

Simple 7" Granny Square Pattern

Round 1:  With Color A, ch 4 (becomes first DC), 2 DC in 4th ch from hook (1st ch), ch 1, 3 DC in same space three times, ending with ch 1, join with slip stitch to top of ch 4.   12 DCs in round.  Bind off.

Round 2:  Attach Color B in any ch 1 space.  Ch 3 (becomes first DC), 2 DC in same space, ch 2, 2 DC in same space (makes first corner) * (3 DC, ch 2, 3 DC) in next ch 1 space.  Repeat from * twice more, join with slip stitch to top of ch 3 (first DC).  Result:   Four corners made. Bind off.

Round 3:  Attach Color A in any ch 2 corner space.  Ch 3 (becomes first DC), 1 DC in same space, *skip 1, DC in next 4 stitches, skip 1, (2 DC, ch 1, 2 DC) in corner.  Repeat from * 2 more times, end with skip 1, 2 DC in corner, ch 1, and join with slip stitch to top of ch 3 (first DC).  Result:  4 DCs on each side with two clusters of 2 DC in each corner.  Bind off.

Round 4:  Attach Color C in any corner.  Ch 1 (becomes first SC), SC in same space.  * SC in next 7 stitches, (2 SC, ch 1, 2 SC) in corner.  Repeat from * 3 more times, ending 2 SC in first corner, ch 2 and join with slip stitch to top of first ch (first SC).  Result:  7 SCs on each side with two clusters of 2 SC in each corner. Do not bind off.

Round 5:  Continuing with Color C, ch 3 (becomes first DC), 1 DC in same space.  * DC next 10 stitches, (2 DC, ch 1, 2 DC) in corner.  Repeat from * 3 times, end with (2 DC, ch 1) in first corner and join with slip stitch to top of ch 3.  Result:  10 DC on each side with two 2 DC clusters in each corner. Bind off.

Round 6:  Attach Color A to any corner.  Ch 3 (becomes first DC), 2 DC in same space.  * Skip 2 stitches, 3 DC in next stitch three times, skip 2, (3 DC, ch 1, 3 DC) in corner.  Repeat from * 3 times, ch 1 in first corner and join to top of ch 3 Result:  Four clusters of 3 DC on each side, with two 2 DC clusters in each corner.  Bind off.

To make a full 7" square, finish with SC border using Color B, with (2 SC, ch 1, 2 SC) in each corner.  Bind off, weave in ends.

Here's a clean copy of the Simple 7" Granny Square for you to print without the advertising and extraneous info that appears on the blog.  And don't forget to check out the rest of my free crochet patterns.

Crochet as many of these granny squares as you'd like for personal use or for sale, but please don't sell the pattern.  If sharing with friends, please give them the link to this post instead of printing multiple copies of the pattern.  Please respect my efforts to provide this to you for free ...  thanks!

Enjoy!

~ Marie Anne

Easy Back and Forth Dishcloth - Free Crochet Pattern

Back and Forth Dishcloths in Seafoam Green
© Marie Anne St. Jean

(This easy crochet dishcloth pattern was previously published on Associated Content/Yahoo and later on Examiner  After both sites closed down, I listed it on Craftsy and of course now they've taken down most patterns there too, so I give up, and just going to post here again to my blog).

Dishcloths are fun to crochet because they work up very quickly and are a useful item that most anyone would be happy to receive as a gift.  My favorites are the simple ones that are worked in a fairly close stitch that doesn't get all stretched out when wet - a dishcloth doesn't need to be elaborate, it just needs to hold up to scrubbing!

I've probably crocheted more dishcloths from this pattern than any other over the years.  I call it the "Back and Forth Dishcloth" because you work one stitch in the back loop only, and the next one in the front loop only.  It's super simple, but alternating front and back loops gives it just the slightest hint of texture with just the single crochet stitch.  Even a beginner can learn to make this dishcloth on the day they first pick up a crochet hook.

Directions for Back and Forth Dishcloth

Materials Needed

Size H crochet hook
Any kitchen cotton yarn

Abbreviations

Ch = chain
SC = single crochet
SS = slip stitch
BLO = back loop only
FLO = front loop only

With size H (5.0 mm) crochet hook, ch 31

Row 1:  SC in third ch from hook, and each ch across.  Ch 1, turn

Row 2:  Skip first stitch, SC in BLO of next stitch, SC in FLO of next stitch, and continue across, alternating BLO and FLO, finishing with a regular sc through both loops of turning ch.

Repeat row 2 until your dishcloth is square (the number of rows might vary depending on how tightly you crochet).

Finishing:

After completing the last row, do not make a turning ch, but turn the dishcloth and SS through both loops of each stitch in top row and around the remaining three sides, working 2 SS in each corner.  SS to join to first SS in top.  Cut yarn leaving a small tail, weave in ends.

If you'd like to print a copy of this pattern without the ads and wonky formatting, visit my Etsy Shop, The Crooked Yarn, and look for a listing titled 2 Easy Crochet Dishcloth Patterns.  And don't forget to check out the rest of my free crochet patterns!

Crochet as many dishcloths as you'd like for personal use or for sale, but please don't sell the pattern.  If sharing with friends, please give them the link to this post instead of printing multiple copies of the pattern.  Please respect my efforts to provide this to you for free ...  thanks!

Enjoy!

~ Marie Anne

Free Yarn Giveaway from Yarn Crush

Yarn_Crush.com

Who doesn't want free yarn?  I haven't been crocheting as much lately because I'm still displaced from Hurricane Florence and don't have most of my supplies with me, so I'd love to win some!  Yarn Crush is having a contest to give away over $300 worth of yarn and other free goodies and I've got my entry in, and you can enter too by clicking Yarn Crush Woolentine's Day Giveaway.

Make sure to visit Yarn Crush to subscribe to their newsletter, or sign up for a subscription of their yummy yarns to be delivered right to your door, or to give as a gift to a favorite person in your life who knits or crochets.  Each box will contain some hand-dyed yarn, the current issue of their magazine with free patterns, and one other fiber art-related goodie.  Everyone likes to get fun surprise boxes in the mail, right?

Have you ever dyed your own yarn?   I'm not that brave, but I do drool over some of the beautiful yarns that others have dyed.  Once I learn more about it, maybe I'll try it one day.

~ Marie Anne

P.S.  When you sign up for the newsletter, you'll receive a code for $12 off your first box!

Touchdown Scarf to Crochet in Team Colors

Touchdown Scarf from RedHeart.com

Looking for something quick and easy to crochet this weekend? Check out this Touchdown Scarf pattern from Red Heart!  The Patriots and Rams will be meeting up in Atlanta on February 3 for Super Bowl LIII, and if you're reading this today, you've still got time to whip out one (or more!) of theses scarves to support your favorite team.

I'm a Green Bay Packer fan, but I grew up in NH so the New England Patriots are a close second for me.  Since red, white, and blue are much nicer color choices for accessories, I think I'd go that route instead of Packer green and gold, but I think this scarf would look nice in any colors you might like to throw together.

Who are you rooting for?

~ Marie Anne

LIckety-Split Knit Dishcloth - Free Pattern

The Lickety Split knit dishcloth pattern was originally available for free on Associated Content/Yahoo and when that folded, I published it on Examiner.  When they closed down also, I listed it for a few pennies on Craftsy, but now that is changing too, so I'm giving up and posting it here again for free on my blog.

This knit dishcloth pattern doesn't require a lot of counting and the pattern repeat is easy to follow, so anyone who knows how to cast on, work a simple knit and purl stitch, and bind off should be able to work this up lickety-split.

Finished size is approximately 8 1/2" square

Materials needed:

Size 6 knitting needles
Large yarn needle to weave in ends
Kitchen cotton yarn (Requires approx. 1.2 oz per cloth.  You should be able to get two cloths from a 2.5 oz ball of yarn)

Tip #1:  I've written the pattern to slip stitch the first stitch and purl the last stitch of every row.  Doing this keeps the finished piece from curling, and gives it a nice, straight edge.  If you'd rather not do that, simply knit the first and last stitches in each row.

Tip #2:  To make it easier to follow and know which row you're working on, I've included a cheat sheet of numbered rows at the end of the pattern so that you can cross off each row you've worked and never lose your place.  If you slip the pattern into a plastic document protector sleeve and use a grease pencil to mark off each row as you've finished it, you can re-use the same sheet over and again.  No scraps of paper and stitch counters needed!

Lickety Split Knit Dishcloth Pattern

With size 6 knitting needles, cast on 42

Rows 1-5, slip stitch first stitch, (SS), knit remainder of row to last stitch, P1

Pattern Rows:

Row 6: SS, K3 (P4, K2, P4) to last 4 sts, K3, P1

Row 7:  SS, knit remainder of row to last stitch, P1

Row 8:  SS, K3 (P4, K2, P4) to last 4 sts, K3, P1

Row 9:  SS, knit remainder of row to last stitch, P1

Row 10:  SS, K3, purl across to last 4 sts, K3, P1

Row 11:  SS, knit across to last stitch, P1

Row 12:  SS, K3, purl across to last 4 sts, K3, P1

Row 13:  SS, knit across to last stitch, P1

Rows 14-45:   Repeat pattern rows 6-13 four times

Row 46-48:  Repeat rows 6-8

Rows 49-53:   SS, knit remainder of row to last stitch, P1

Bind off, weave in ends.

This pattern may be used to make items to sell, but you may not sell the pattern itself.  If you'd like to share it with friends, please share the link to this blog post, and don't just copy or print the directions for them. While this is a simple pattern, it does take time to knit the cloths and translate to written directions, include the row guide that you can mark off, transfer to .pdf form so that you may read/print it easily without advertisements, take photographs, etc., and ultimately publish the pattern   I enjoy providing free, easy patterns for others, but please respect my efforts - thanks!

Close-up of Lickety Split Knit Dishcloth

Close up of folded Lickety Split Knit Dishcloth

Lickety-Split Knit Dishcloth Cheat Sheet 

Rows 1, 6, and 10 are the only rows you need to remember. All other rows are repeats of those three.

Row 1: SS, knit remainder of row to last stitch, P1

Row 6: SS, K3 (P4, K2, P4) to last 4 sts, K3, P1

Row 10: SS, K3, purl across to last 4 sts, K3, P1

Instead of trying to follow the longer written pattern earlier in this post, use the list below to follow the sequence of rows directly above this, and mark them off as you go along.

1       1 1       1 1

6       1 6       1 10 1      10 1

6       1 6       1 10 1       10 1

6       1 6       1 10 1       10 1

6       1 6       1 10 1       10 1

6       1 6       1 10 1       10 1

6       1 6            

1       1 1       1 1

P.S.  If you'd like a clean copy without advertising and wonky formatting, you can find it available in my Etsy shop, The Crooked Yarn.   And don't forget to check out the rest of my free knitting patterns.

Enjoy!

~ Marie Anne