Tunisian Crochet Coasters

Boo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Scared ya??? Yes... I'm still here... (^_^;)

I made a lot of these coasters with worsted weight cotton yarn over months in the past, and I just wanted to share them with you all:



I just used Tunisian Simple Stitches(TSS) and edged them around with Single Crochet Stitches(SC). TSS and worsted weight yarn create the thickness just right for coasters. I also like how variegated yarn look in TSS. (^_^)  Make sure to use a Tunisian crochet hook that is 1 or 2 size larger than suggested hook size for the yarn you are using to avoid excessive curling.

Book Review: "Crochet! - Techniques, Stitches, Patterns"

I was given this opportunity to review this book:

"Forget about outdated designs: Crochet! is all about cutting-edge needlework! These sophisticated handmade masterpieces-all in wools, silks, cottons, bamboo, and microfibers-range from dresses and cover-ups to accessories, home décor items, and toys. Eighty classic and fanciful stitches provide plenty of inspiration for crocheters of all levels, while 20 patterns-each with a photo of the finished project-round out this updated and comprehensive course."

* Click the image to view inside of the book *

Crochet! Techniques, Stitches, Patterns
By Marie-Noelle Bayard
Flexibound
ISBN13: 978-1-936096-14-5
8 1/8x 10 5/8 inches • 224 pages

Product page on Sixth & Spring Books
This 224 page book is for beginner - advanced level crocheters. The photo tutorials are very clear, and crochet symbols (I believe all crocheters need to learn symbols!) include unique and advanced symbols in addition to basics. I really like this books for the tutorial of basic garment construction with explanations of types of armholes, necklines, and button holes!

Also, the pattern stitches and motifs are my most favorite part of this book! - There are beautiful fans, shells, textured, and unique stitch patterns including "raised scales", which has become widely known among crocheters rather recently as "crocodile stitch". Crocheters - Don't be afraid of advanced pattern stitches! :) They are just different combinations and repeats of basic stitches. In my opinion, beautiful and advanced pattern stitches can be done a lot more easily in crochet than knitting!

Patterns included are: bags, baby items (toy, sweater, blanket, booties), adults' pullovers, jacket, accessories (belt, slippers, scarves, beret, brooches), and home decor items (pillows, lamp shade). - Contemporary and useful. :) I'd say the skill level of these patterns are ranging from easy to advanced intermediate. The constructions of each design seem traditional, and I believe oh-so-very-important basics and lots more can be learned by completing these projects.

Great work, Ms. Marie-Noelle!!!

Where did the time go?

Already August?! Eeeeeek!!!

I'm really sorry for having been absent here for such a long time. But not to worry, I've still been near the yarn craft, and I'll stay that way. :) It amazes me that I started this blog when my son was 3 years old, and this year he will be 11! I shall continue!!!

I've been juggling home-schooling, house chores, and my work in the last year. My boy is going back to school for this new school year, and the first day is next week! Please - pray for us that my boy will stay healthy unlike last year and that he will enjoy his school life again.

I am having a little guilt feeling recently because..... I've been eyeing sewing machines! XD I want to graduate from my basic Brother machine I bought years ago. I also feel like graduating from jeans and become a skirt lady... Haha. Having a typical Asian woman figure of my generation, most skirts I can find here are either too long/too short and too narrow/too wide around hip, and I NEED to make my own. I'm also dreaming about sewing up little girl dresses for my nieces and cute bags with pretty fabric. But again, I will NOT stop crocheting/knitting especially because I also need hats that fit my big head covered with thick layer of hair, and one can never have enough scarves, shawls, and even doilies... right?? :D