Search Results for: gauge

The Most Important Things You Need to Know About Crochet Gauge

If you've ever completed a project only to find that it didn't turn out quite the way you hoped, your crochet gauge may have been the culprit. This article is designed to help you understand crochet gauge better, giving you the knowledge and skills to prevent more project disappointments. We'll explore important topics like how to measure gauge correctly, ways to make adjustments if needed, and what to do when your gauge doesn't match the pattern's requirements. UPDATED: SEPTEMBER 12, 2023 BY BRITTANYThis post may contain affiliate links. Learn everything you need to know about crochet gauge, and why it's important. In the following sections, we'll look at the most pressing questions surrounding crochet gauge, including what it is and why it matters. Here's a quick overview of the topics…
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What You Wanted to Know About Gauge (Part 2) | Podcast Episode #131

Are you completely confused by gauge? No worries! I'm back this week to answer even more of your questions about gauge and why it's one of the most important things to consider when designing or following crochet or knitting patterns. Here's the scoop... Don't worry, you're not alone! I turned to my Instagram community again this week to bring you another "what you wanted to know episode" to find out exactly what you need to know about gauge. So many questions were submitted that I'm breaking it into two episodes so I can answer as many of your questions about gauge as I can for you! Mentioned in this Episode There were no specific resources mentioned in this episode but if you want to learn more about gauge, check out…
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What You Wanted to Know About Gauge (Part 1) | Podcast Episode #130

Are you completely confused by gauge? Don't worry, you're not alone! I turned to my Instagram community again this week to bring you another "what you wanted to know episode" to find out exactly what you need to know about gauge. Clearly, this is a topic that needs clarification. After all, it's the single most important thing to consider when designing or following crochet or knitting patterns. So many questions were submitted that I'm breaking it into two episodes so I can answer as many of your questions about gauge as I can for you! Mentioned in this Episode There were no specific resources mentioned in this episode but if you want to learn more about gauge, check out these resources too! Tech Editing & Gauge What You Need to…
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What You Need to Know About Tech Editing & Gauge As a Crochet Designer | Podcast Episode #111

Not sure how to make your patterns available in more than one size (without making them all)? Whether you aspire to be a professional tech editor, need to learn how to tech edit your own patterns or simply have no clue what gauge is, there is something valuable for you in this episode! Special Guest I'm joined by professional tech editor, Emily from Fiat Fiber Arts and we made it our personal mission to help you with gauge. She'll help you understand what it means to tech edit a pattern (for those of you who design patterns) and understand what gauge is (for those of you who follow patterns for fun). Emily started tech editing professionally after realizing this was her passion. She is a wealth of knowledge and she…
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Crochet Challenge for Warm Up America 2024

We're passionate about using our crochet skills to help others through our annual Crochet Challenge for Warm Up America. Every year, hundreds of people just like you come together to make a specific handmade gift (the challenge project) for someone in need. The 2024 Crochet Challenge for Warm Up America starts on February 16, 2024, with the pattern and tutorial coming out at 11:00 am EDT. You have until March 20, 2024, to send your finished challenge project to Warm Up America. That's how you complete the challenge! Make sure to read all the details on this page before that date. This page is like your main hub for the challenge because it has everything you need to know to join and finish the challenge. I've tried to make it…
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How to Make a Simple Crochet Snowflake in Minutes!

Learn how to make a crochet snowflake in a matter of minutes with this free pattern and step-by-step tutorial. You can view the pattern completely free on this page, or you can buy the ad-free, printable PDF from our shop. UPDATED: JANUARY 9, 2024 BY BRITTANYThis post may contain affiliate links. JUMP TO PATTERN SAVE TO PINTEREST Skill Level | EasyFinished Size | Small, Medium, Large Making a crochet snowflake is a cool project that doesn't take long, and you don't need much yarn. You can use different yarn weights to make it your way and be as creative as you want. I enjoy putting these crocheted snowflakes around my home during winter to add a homemade feel. They're also perfect for the holidays – you can hang them on…
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Knitting Needle Size Chart + How to Pick the Right Size

When it comes to beautiful knits, knitting needle size matters! Have you ever seen a number or a metric value (or maybe both) stamped on your needles? These are the codes manufacturers use to tell you how big or small the needles are. This handy guide is your trusty companion. Bookmark this page and use it whenever you come across a pattern that uses a needle size you're unfamiliar with. UPDATED: DECEMBER 18, 2023 BY BRITTANYThis post may contain affiliate links. I made this guide to help clear up the questions you may have about knitting needle sizes. Keep in mind, that the size of your knitting needle isn't only about the yarn it works with - it also affects how your project turns out. If you use a small…
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Crochet Hook Size Chart + How to Pick the Right Size

When it comes to crochet, crochet hook size matters! Have you ever seen a number, a letter, or a metric value (or maybe all three) stamped on your crochet hooks? These are the codes manufacturers use to tell you how big or small the hooks are, and here's the kicker: these codes can be different from one brand to another. It can get confusing! This handy guide is your trusty companion. Bookmark this page and use it whenever you come across a pattern that uses a hook size you're not familiar with. UPDATED: DECEMBER 18, 2023 BY BRITTANYThis post may contain affiliate links. Furls Odyssey Crochet Hooks (Discontinued): Read the Review Here This guide was made to clear up all your questions about crochet hook sizes. Keep in mind, that…
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The Most Important Things You Need to Know About Yarn Weights

As you learn more about crochet or knitting, it becomes important to know about yarn weights. This is helpful when you follow a pattern and need to use a different yarn or when you want to make your own simple blanket. Understanding a bit about the yarn weight you're using is crucial for success. Yarn weight might seem confusing because of numbers and various names that all mean the same thing. This article is here to answer the most common questions about yarn weight and help you grasp the concept better. UPDATED: DECEMBER 18, 2023 BY BRITTANYThis post may contain affiliate links. In the following sections, we'll look at the most common questions about yarn weights and what they mean for your projects. Here's a quick overview of the topics…
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How to Make a Crochet Infinity Scarf in Under 4 Hours

If you're new to crocheting, a super quick crochet infinity scarf is a fantastic beginner project! This cozy scarf is stylish and warm and you can finish it in just a few hours. You can check out the free pattern on this page, or if you prefer, you can purchase the ad-free, printable PDF from our shop. UPDATED: DECEMBER 13, 2023 BY BRITTANYThis post may contain affiliate links. Skill Level | EasyFinished Size | 56" circumference; about 6.5" wide Whether you're looking for a quick gift idea or a simple project to make next, this simple crochet infinity scarf is just what you need! We use a medium-weight yarn and a jumbo-sized crochet hook, making it stitch up quickly, and it keeps you super warm. Plus, the best part is…
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How to Make the Easiest Crochet Garland in Minutes!

Garlands are fantastic decorations, and creating your own is a delightful and speedy project! This easy crochet garland, designed in a charming rope style, can be whipped up in just a few minutes. You'll see how to crochet a garland in this step-by-step guide, including the free pattern, or if you like, you can buy the ad-free, printable PDF from our shop. UPDATED: DECEMBER 7, 2023 BY BRITTANYThis post may contain affiliate links. Skill Level | EasyFinished Size | About an inch in diameter, and as long as you want! Not only can pre-made garland be a bit pricey but there's something truly enjoyable about crafting your own using the yarn you already have. For this pattern, I recommend using a super bulky yarn and a large crochet hook, ensuring…
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How to Make a Simple Twist Crochet Headband in Under 2 Hours

Learn how to make a twist crochet headband this weekend and enjoy wearing it throughout the season! These cozy headbands are easy to create, and you can finish one in less than two hours. Find the free pattern on this page, or if you like, you can buy the ad-free, printable PDF from our shop. UPDATED: DECEMBER 5, 2023 BY BRITTANYThis post may contain affiliate links. Skill Level | EasyFinished Size | Fits 21"-22" Head Circumference I adore a good twist crochet headband because they look cute on everyone, even if you're not usually into headbands. For this pattern, we use a super textured medium-weight yarn, which gives it a lovely organic look and feel. But, if you have any medium-weight yarn at home, feel free to use that instead.…
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How to Make a Chunky Crochet Beanie in 2 Hours

If you're new to crocheting, a chunky crochet beanie is a fantastic beginner project! These beanies are useful, simple to crochet, and you can complete them in just a few hours. You can check out the free pattern on this page, or if you prefer, you can purchase the ad-free, printable PDF from our shop. UPDATED: NOVEMBER 30, 2023 BY BRITTANYThis post may contain affiliate links. Skill Level | BeginnerFinished Size | Fits 18"-22" Head Circumference Whether you're starting your first crochet adventure or scrambling for a quick crochet gift, this chunky crochet beanie is just what you need! We use thick yarn, making it stitch up quickly, and it keeps you super warm. Plus, the best part is that it only involves one stitch and repeating a single row.…
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Learn How to Make Perfect Crochet Pumpkins in 3 Sizes

Crochet pumpkins are the perfect way to add a little handmade charm to your home. Learn how to make three perfect crochet pumpkins with this free pattern and step-by-step tutorial. You can view the pattern completely free on this page, or you can buy the ad-free, printable PDF from our shop. UPDATED: OCTOBER 25, 2023 BY BRITTANYThis post may contain affiliate links. Skill Level | EasyFinished Size | 7.5", 10", and 10.5" Are you ready to add a touch of autumn charm to your home decor? Crochet pumpkins are the perfect choice! Plus, they won't break the bank like store-bought ones. This awesome set comes in three different sizes, so you won't need to look for another crochet pumpkin pattern ever again! You can make them unique by simply switching…
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How Much Yarn Is Needed for Basic Projects + How to Build a Yarn Calculator

When you start exploring the world of designing crochet patterns, whether it's for a hobby or a more serious endeavor, understanding how much yarn you've used is a fundamental skill to develop. In this article, I'll walk you through the steps to figure out how much yarn you have in your design and share some valuable tips I've picked up during my ten years of pattern designing. UPDATED: SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 BY BRITTANYThis post may contain affiliate links. When you want to share a pattern you've made with others, in casual situations, it might be fine to just mention how many skeins you used. However, if you're aiming for a more professional approach, like distributing or selling your patterns, it's essential to provide more detailed information. Here is a quick…
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6 Easy Steps to Pick the Right Yarn Substitution

There are many reasons to need a yarn substitution in a pattern. Maybe the recommended yarn is no longer available, you're allergic to its fiber contents or you just want to use a yarn you already have. You can substitute yarn... but not all yarns will work equally. This guide will help you determine the best yarn substitution (when the need arises) in six easy steps. UPDATED: SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 BY BRITTANYThis post may contain affiliate links. Learn how to substitute yarn and use a different yarn than your pattern calls for. This guide was designed to help you determine the best possible yarn substitute for the pattern you have your eye on no matter the reason you want to substitute. We'll look at how things like yarn weight, color,…
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Stash Buster Crochet Blanket

With a simple repeat that works up fast, this soft and squishy stitch makes a perfect stash-busting blanket. Skill Level | IntermediateFinished Size | 45" wide; 55" long Buy the PDF Pattern About this Pattern This is one of the warmest and softest blanket patterns you'll find on this site! We paired a beautiful, simple, yet fast-growing stitch with an everyday medium weight yarn so you can finish in a matter of weeks not months. This blanket was the featured project for our time-based crochet challenge in early 2023, and hundreds of participants were able to finish it in less than one month. With this project you'll get lots of practice with the feather stitch. You can make stripes in your blanket like we did, or leave it solid. It's…
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The Most Unique Crochet Hat You’ll Ever Make!

Learn how to make the most unique crochet hat with this free pattern and step-by-step tutorial. When you make a crochet hat in rows instead of rounds, it has an excellent fit and totally unique look. You can view the pattern completely free on this page, or you can buy the ad-free, printable PDF from our shop. UPDATED: AUGUST 9, 2023 BY BRITTANYThis post may contain affiliate links. Skill Level | IntermediateFinished Size | Newborn, Baby, Toddler, Child, Adult If you hate crocheting in the round, you're absolutely going to LOVE this crochet hat. It is crocheted entirely in rows, yet it has a perfectly sculpted crown. A technique called "short rows" is the secret sauce behind this clever shaping, and it's one of the neatest tricks you can have…
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How to Make a Simple Fisherman’s Rib Knit Scarf

Learn how to make a fisherman's rib knit scarf with this free pattern and step-by-step tutorial. You can view the pattern completely free on this page, or you can buy the ad-free, printable PDF from our shop. UPDATED: SEPTEMBER 18, 2023 BY BRITTANYThis post may contain affiliate links. Skill Level | IntermediateFinished Size | 8.5" wide x 116" long When it comes to choosing the perfect stitch pattern for a knitted scarf, the fisherman's rib is right up there on our list. It produces a reversible, stretchy fabric with a beautiful drape. Our simple fisherman's rib knit scarf is an excellent starting point if you're eager to learn this versatile stitch and put your knitting skills to good use. About Our Fisherman's Rib Knit Scarf Pattern If you're on the…
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Crochet Challenge for Warm Up America 2023

This challenge has concluded. Thank you to everyone who participated! Together as a community, we sent 332 blankets to Warm Up America as a result of this challenge! We'll see you next year! We're passionate about using our crochet skills to help others through our annual Crochet Challenge for Warm Up America. Every year, hundreds of people just like you come together to make a specific handmade gift (the challenge project) for someone in need. We hope you'll join us this year! The 2023 Crochet Challenge for Warm Up America kicks off on January 27th, 2023 with the release of the pattern and tutorial at 11:00 am EDT. Challenge participants will have until February 28th to postmark your completed challenge project to Warm Up America to complete the challenge. Be…
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