Emma Washcloth – Free Crochet Pattern

May 18, 2015June 8, 2015 Jeris3 Comments

Emma washcloth free crochet pattern

Ready for an easy, cute, and functional free crochet pattern? I am pleased to introduce the Emma Washcloth!

I wanted to begin my free pattern series with something quick and fun, something that you can keep for yourself or give as a gift. Easily customizable, this washcloth design will quickly become one of your go-to projects (it has for me). I couldn’t settle on one color combination, so I made several. I love the idea of mixing and matching colors, and I opted for a set of spring and summer-friendly shades to brighten up any home.

What makes this design really special is the feminine detail of the scalloped border, adding a decorative twist to a classic washcloth. Using a contrasting color for the border provides a whimsical, modern feel to a vintage-inspired design. This pattern is appropriate for beginners of crochet, and it can be completed quickly by those more experienced. I recommend using Lily Sugar ‘n Cream yarn, though any cotton, worsted weight yarn will do. The colors pictured are: Mod Green, Hot Purple, Rose Pink, and Yellow. One 120-Yard skein will create a center of one washcloth and the border of another (with a little to spare).

And now, the pattern:

Emma Washcloth – Free Crochet Pattern Materials:

100% Cotton Yarn, Worsted Weight in Two Different Colors
H-8 Crochet Hook
Scissors
Yarn Needle

Gauge: While gauge isn’t important for this project, I’ll let you know mine anyway. 12 HDC = 4 inches 8 HDC Rows = 4 inches

Finished Dimensions: Approximately 11.5 inch square

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions:

With First Color, ch 31.

Row 1: HDC in 3rd ch from hook and in each ch across. (29 HDC)

Row 2: Ch 2. Turn. Work 1 HDC in each HDC across. (29 HDC)

Repeat Row 2 until the piece measures 10.5 inches. Turn, joining Second Color in the last loop of the last stitch.

Border: Chain 1. Turn the work so you are working along the side. 3 SC in the corner. SC evenly along the side to the next corner. You will have approximately 28 SC stitches along each side. 3 SC in the corner. Continue working around the piece, spacing SC around evenly and 3 SC in each corner. Join with a ss to the first SC stitch. You will have roughly 116 SC stitches, though it is okay to have a few more or less, as long as you have a multiple of 4. Ch 1. (1 SC, skip 1, 4 DC in next st, skip 1) around. Join with ss.

Cut yarn and fasten off.

Weave in all loose ends.

I hope you enjoy! Post pictures if you decide to complete this project. I’d love to see what you come up with. 🙂

Also, if you don’t want to make your own, you can purchase the entire set from SwanJay shop.

Why You Should Learn to Knit (or Crochet)

May 13, 2015 Jeris3 Comments

Why should you learn to knit or crochet when you can just buy a hat or blanket already made, and likely cheaper than the cost of yarn and supplies? There are actually numerous benefits, both physical and emotional.

I stumbled into the hobby of knitting when I was in grad school. I was studying English Literature, and I had a lot of work to do, especially while writing my thesis. I am also prone to stress and anxiety, and I needed an outlet, a way to relieve stress while still feeling productive. I’ve always liked art and making things, so I decided to try knitting.

At first, I found it overwhelming, and the results were less than fabulous on my first few attempts, but I quickly found it to be a rewarding, ever-evolving source of peace and fulfillment. Naturally, I had to learn to crochet, as well, which has produced many of the same results.

Without further ado, here are my top reasons to learn knitting or crochet:

1. It relieves stress. They have actually done studies on this, like the one found here. The process of knitting or crochet keeps your hands and your mind busy while producing a tangible result for your efforts. It is very soothing in that respect.

2. You can do it (almost) anywhere. If you’re like me, and you don’t enjoy idle time, knitting and crochet are great hobbies. They are portable, so you can do them while riding in a car, on a plane (if regulations are followed, of course), or while watching TV. Unlike other arts, such as painting or quilting, for instance, you can get your creative outlet on the go.

3. You can make pretty, unique things. If you get the hang of knitting or crochet, you can make beautiful things with even basic stitches. You can make yourself a new hat and scarf set, or you can create matching cable-knit sweaters for your children. Soon, friends and family will be requesting all sorts of items for birthdays and holiday gifts.

4. It keeps your mind sharp. Research has shown that knitting can actually keep your mind sharp. Once you have a handle on the knit and purl of it all, you can start creating your own patterns, which only ups the brainpower used during the stitching.

5. It’s fun. Last, but certainly not least, knitting is fun. It is really cool to see something come to be from yarn and two sticks. You can express your personality in what you make, and it is enjoyable to see what you can create.

So, there is really no reason to hold back. Pick up a set of needles, a skein of yarn, and get knitting. If you’re looking for a great place to get started, check out the Lion Brand website‘s tutorials. They are very helpful.Knit unique items for special occasions.