In need of a good DYI project or want to brush up on you crochet knowledge, well my dears, you have come to the right place. A look back Reviving a classic pattern for a fast DIY project to get your home ready for fall. The earlier blog post, Know Your Crochet....The Magic of the Ring , provided a quick guide on various methods to begin what crocheters refer to as the magic ring. This technique is essential for starting any circular or tubular pattern. Here is a recap of the magic ring, and you can access the PDF download for the Fall-fetti placemat & coaster at the conclusion of the blog. Round & round we go! I'm not talking about an exhaustive argument with yourself, I'm talking about making a circle. So, if you're tired of making squares and rectangles and would like to soften up your projects the magic ring is truly a magic way to begin. Unlike squares that are crocheted in rows (flipping back and forth between front and back), the circle or any cylinder type project is done in rounds...well because you go around and around lol! How to start your round ONE Ring of Chains Method: A lot of people just starting to learn crochet will use this method because it's the simplest to use. To start you chain 4 stitches and then use a slip st to connect the two ends and make a ring. Then depending on what stitch you're use (SC, HDC, DC) you'll stitch the number you need for your pattern, into the center of the ring. Pros: use to use Cons: leaves a hole in the middle Advantage: if your design requires an opening in the middle TWO Magic Circle Method: For this method you start with a loop and then make a slip knot around the loop. Once you have your slip knot you cans start adding your stitches around the loop. As you go around the loop you will notice that there is tail hanging down from the loop you created. Once you have the number of stitches you need you pull this tail tight until the hole in the middle closes up. After tightly closing your circle you join the round by slip stitching in the your first stitch. Pros: no open holes in the center and makes your work look more finished Cons: slightly harder to learn than the "Ring of Chains" Method Advantage: can use on any circular project (socks, hats, placemats...) that requires a ring to start THREE Chain Method: Start by chaining however many chains you need for your stitch, plus one. For example if you're using single crochet stitches you would chain 1 + 1 = 2, or if your using double crochet stitches you would chain 2 + 1 = 3. Then you would continue by making your first stitch in the chain farthest from the hook and so on until you have the number of stitches needed for your project. However, the slip knot you use to make your chain can cause a gap in our circle. But never fear you can remedy this by picking out the slip knot and pulling the remaining tail tight like you would if you were using the "Magic Circle". Pros: A versatile ring to use. You can leave the hole in the center if needed, or tighten the center. Cons: you have to add an extra step to tighten the circle unlike using the "Magic Circle". Advantage: can use on any circular project (socks, hats, placemats...) that requires a ring to start Picking favorites So out of the 3 methods above I really favor the "Magic Circle". I love the finished look of it and in my opinion it's actually the sturdiest circle to use and more often than "knot"...wink, wink...will not come undone. And the biggest reason....there is NO HOLE in the center of your project! I can't tell you how much that bugs me! Side note, unless you need the hole. #bloggingthemoonCM #knowyourcrochet #circlesofmagic In the spirit of giving! Since November IS the month of GIVING & GRATITUDE I am attaching a 2 for 1. You can use the same pattern to create festive placemats and matching coasters. Not a bad deal!! FALL-FETTI PLACEMAT & COASTERS

Join me in discovering both new and traditional stitches, and in crafting simple-to-follow patterns that will enhance the beauty and diversity of any project you undertake. Ah, Halloween, the time of year when pumpkins glow, ghosts roam, and candy corn reigns supreme. We all know and love those sugary little triangles that mark the arrival of the spookiest season. But what if I told you that candy corn could be more than just a festive treat? What if I told you it could be transformed into the most adorable Halloween accessory? That's right, folks – we're talking about turning candy corn into the must-have beanie for all ages! The Birth of a Halloween Icon It's no secret that candy corn is the poster child for Halloween. Those yellow, orange, and white layers have been delighting taste buds for generations. But imagine if you could wear that iconic candy corn look on your head – now that's taking Halloween spirit to a whole new level! To make this delightful and attractive hat, you will be using the "Griddle" stitch, also referred to as the Cobble Stitch. This stitch pattern is easy and ideal for beginners looking to add some texture to their projects! It entails alternating between single and double crochet stitches. Whether known as the griddle stitch or cobbler, you will have fun incorporating this texture into different crochet projects....and the possibilities for using this stitch are endless: wash/dish clothes blankets hats/beanies scarves sweaters dresses scrunchies couch/arm rest covers baskets gloves/mittens If you're familiar with the "Griddle" stitch post in the comments below and let us know your favorite way to crochet with it. Candy Corn Beanie: 0-6 months to Adult Medium Whether your little one is still in their infant years or you're an adult looking to embrace your inner child, there's a candy corn beanie for everyone. Picture this: a sweet little baby rocking a cozy candy corn beanie, or a group of friends out trick-or-treating, all sporting matching candy corn headwear. It's a Halloween dream come true! #bloggingthemoonCM    #stitchesandpatterns   # CMcandycornhalloweenbeanie

If you're unsure about which gifts complement each other or how to coordinate your fashion items from The Crocheted Moon for a fabulous look, you've come to the right place. Here, we will demonstrate how you can match your pieces with other items from the store or your own wardrobe. Prepare to exude style and confidence! Meet Fanny the Fashion Pair. Our little friend loves clothes and accessories galore, but doesn't always know how to 'pair' things together. Today she wants to find something cool, but warm that will help keep her toasty in the cold weather. See what fun combinations you can make with hats, scarves, and your fav jackets and coats. Trick or Treat my pretties! Fanny enjoys dressing up, particularly for Halloween, and who can blame her, right? Fanny has also developed a fondness for The Crocheted Moon's vintage-style Witches Hat, which can breathe new life into an old costume hanging in your closet or add just the right touch to a new one. "Bobble, Bobble, Toil and Trouble".....something wicked this way comes! Oh it's just you in your divine new witches hat! #bloggingthemoonCM #fashionpairs #witcheshatsandcostumes Halloween shopping starts here....

The creations have been crafted and are on their way. Explore The Crocheted Moon to uncover what is unfolding, as part of the thrill comes from the anticipation! Zombie, who? Zombie Voodoo Doll.... Hey there, spooky season enthusiasts! I'm thrilled to share a bone-chilling sneak peek with you all. The Crocheted Moon is set to unveil a new addition to our Snug N' Cuddle Line, and brace yourselves because it's going to be gruesomely delightful. And As we gear up for Halloween, the atmosphere will be brimming with excitement, and what better way to enhance your eerie festivities than with this adorably macabre companion? The Zombie Voodoo Doll is not your average plush toy—it's a delightful blend of cute and spooky,. Below are some of the awesome materials that will be used to create it's stitched-up grin to its button eyes that seem to follow you around the room. Every detail of the Zombie Voodoo Doll exudes charm with a hint of mischief. Whether you're a horror aficionado or simply looking to add a unique twist to your Halloween decor, this plush creation is bound to steal your heart (and maybe your soul along the way). So get ready to meet our newest creation real soon, the super soft and squishable Zombie Voodoo Doll 🎃👻! #bloggingthemoonCM    #comingsoon    #CM zombievoodoodoll More from the Snug N' Cuddle Line Introducing the first plushie in the Snug N' Cuddle Line. This adorable and super cuddly Butterfly is soft and huggable made specifically for kids and babies, with its gentle and plush material perfect for cuddling during nap time or playtime. The bright and colorful design is sure to capture the attention and imagination of your little ones, and will create endless hours of fun and entertainment. Whether for play or comfort, this lovable butterfly is a must-have for any child's toy box. Get Your Spooky on Here!

If you're unsure about which gifts complement each other or how to coordinate your fashion items from The Crocheted Moon for a fabulous look, you've come to the right place. Here, we will demonstrate how you can match your pieces with other items from the store or your own wardrobe. Prepare to exude style and confidence! Meet Fanny the Fashion Pair. Our little friend loves clothes and accessories galore, but doesn't always know how to 'pair' things together. Today she wants to find something cool, but warm that will help keep her toasty in the cold weather. See what fun combinations you can make with hats, scarves, and your fav jackets and coats. Grab your pen and paper! Fanny is back and wants to share her fav hat and jacket "pearings" for a fabulously stylish fall. Now, either rummage through your closet or treat yourself to a shopping spree to put together your own stylish fall outfits that will impress everyone! #bloggingthemoonCM #fashionpairs #sylishhatandjackets Fall/Winter Fashion

If you're unsure about which gifts complement each other or how to coordinate your fashion items from The Crocheted Moon for a fabulous look, you've come to the right place. Here, we will demonstrate how you can match your pieces with other items from the store or your own wardrobe. Prepare to exude style and confidence! Meet Fanny the Fashion Pair. Our little friend loves clothes and accessories galore, but doesn't always know how to 'pair' things together. Today she wants to find something cool, but warm that will help keep her toasty in the cold weather. See what fun combinations you can make with hats, scarves, and your fav jackets and coats. Grab Your Popcorn! Fanny is back and wants to share a new video on her latest fav pairing from The Crocheted Moon. Thank you, Fanny! The Summer/Spring Thin Bow Tie Collection and Father Gnome make excellent gifts for men. "Father Gomes Best". Father Gnome is decked out in fun details complete with a cotton shirt and lapels, a silk tie, fabulous mustache, and a nifty pocket where he keeps the money...or gift card. "Summer & Spring Collection: The Thin Bow Tie". Gives off a streamlined and sophisticated look, and is appropriately proportioned for most men and boys. You can dress it up with a suit for a more formal function or keep it a little bit more casual with a flattering print button up and a pair of khakis. Each bow tie is a double layer of cotton mesh thread, has an easy to use metal clip to fasten it onto your collar, and is blocked and shaped for a crisp clean look. #bloggingthemoonCM #fashionpairs #bowtiesandgnomes Father "Gnomes" Best Summer & Spring Collection: The Thin Bow Tie

Join me in discovering both new and traditional stitches, and in crafting simple-to-follow patterns that will enhance the beauty and diversity of any project you undertake. 1990's are the new 2024! As far as fun accessories go, scrunchies are one of the best! They add color, texture, and style to just about anything. Share some creative ways you have utilized your scrunchy collection by posting your ideas in the blog comments for us to experiment with as well! hair accessory (of course) shirt tie bracelets anklet what else can you do......? Lattice Hair Scrunchie #bloggingthemoonCM    #stitchesandpatterns   #scrunchiesarethebest

The creations have been crafted and are on their way. Explore The Crocheted Moon to uncover what is unfolding, as part of the thrill comes from the anticipation! Get ready to "line-up" and fall in love with CM's newest additions Wrap your little one with The Crocheted Moon's latest baby beanies collection. One design features an updated "earflap" style that securely fastens under the chin, with a cozy waffle pattern perfect for transitioning from fall to winter. The other charming beanie showcases a captivating spiral pattern, both styles finished with faux fur pom poms. Each hat pattern will be accentuated by the carefully selected colors that follow this fall/winter trends of pastel, neutrals, and rich fall colors. Displayed below is an illustration of the waffle pattern and the pearl, rust orange hues complemented by a chestnut brown faux fur pom. Following that, you will find the spiral motif and the variegated cotton yarn, which will give each piece its own distinctiveness and will also be adorned with a cream faux fur pom. More Crocheted Moon fall fashion must-haves If you haven't already added these fabulous fall items to your wardrobe, you won't want to miss out on the classic style "Static Wave Beanie", the flapper style "Flowering Bobble Beanie", or the versatile everyday "Rustic Slouch Hat". If you also love dressing from head to to in your fav character, we have to-die-for Nightmare Before Christmas and Grinch scarves and hats! And before checking-out, make sure to take a look at the charming and playful "Paw Print Scarf." This scarf will come in the new colors selected during CM's fall color contest last year, as well as a few remaining discontinued colors available at a reduced price. #bloggingthemoonCM #comingsoon #CMfallfashion2024 Shop Here!

Join me as I explore new and old stitches and create easy-to-follow patterns to add a touch of beauty and variety to any project you make. Unleash Your Inner Stylist with Floral Accessories Easily made with leftover yarn scraps, they can be placed just about anywhere you can imagine. Here's a short list of fashionable fun ideas. turn them into brooches and pin them on your hand bags, sweaters, hats, jackets, and even your ballet flats attach them to headbands and switch them out to match your outfits need new magnets for your fridge? make them into granny squares....remember the fabulous square! String them together and hang them on walls or across your fireplace for a fun spring or summer bunting arrange them into a decorative bouquet or a door wreath Imagination is always key in any worthwhile endeavor and we'd love to hear your creative uses for fun, fabulous crocheted floral. Scroll down to the comments and let us know! #bloggingthemoonCM  #stitchesandpatterns  #floralaccessories Easy Rose Pattern Perky Sunflower Pattern Darling Daisy Pattern

Join me as I explore new and old stitches and create easy-to-follow patterns to add a touch of beauty and variety to any project you make. Unraveling the Mystery: Daisy or Star? Well my friends, it's both! It's like the famous optical illusion picture of the lady...do you see a duck or rabbit. You might recognize this particular stitch from "The Stitch of the Month" last year, but I love this stitch and have a fantastic shawl pattern to share. Now the big question: What can I make with this delicate looking stitch? cowels sweaters blankets scarfs hot pads pillowcase covers hats or use it as border around your project Imagination is always key in any worthwhile endeavor and we'd love to hear your creative uses for the Star/Daisy stitch if you don't see them listed above. Scroll down to the comments and let us know! Video Instructions The video instructions are once again done by Daisy Farms. She is wonderful crafter and her videos are always easy to follow. Starry Night Shawl It is always a good idea to practice on a swatch first, just to get the feel of it, before creating your blanket or garment. #bloggingthemoonCM  #stitchesandpatterns  #staranddaisystitch

Below you will find unique creations and patterns I have designed exclusively for my customers. I go into the "hows" and "whys" you won't find them anywhere else. 2 New Must-Have from The Crocheted Moon to Elevate Your Easter! SPRINGTIME CARROT BUNCH These delightful carrots are the perfect accent for your spring or Easter decorations.  The variegated yarn skein used to make one of the carrots adds a unique detail that gives you a different color scheme almost every time and their vibrant hues are sure to brighten up any space and bring a smile to your face. Whether you display them as a bunch or untie their rustic twin ribbon and display them separately, you can use them in a vase, on a shelf, or as part of a centerpiece, the Spring Time Carrot Bunch will add a playful and charming touch to your home. BABY PASTEL WILBERT Made in the image of their original counterpart, Wilbert: The Crocheted Moon Mascot, the pastel baby Wilberts are made for Easter, Spring, baby showers, gender reveals, ect.....  Their coat is crocheted to feel like wool, and the fleece-like yarn makes them very cuddly.  A cotton yarn muzzle & ears give him a variety of textures and looks, while black bubble buttons finish off his sweet expression.   So, get ready to count even more sheep because these little guys can't wait to come home with you either! #bloggingthemoonCM #CMexclusivedesgin #carrotsandlambs Shop here.... To make a purchase or for more details about each new item, click below.

Ever wonder why certain crochet stitches are better for some patterns and not others? Does using a particular stitch really make a difference in the finished product? Even if you are not a crocheter, having a little bit of stitch knowledge can help you pick the best quality product. This year I want to find new stitches I haven't used yet. Come along with me as I explore new and fancy stitches and what projects they are best used for. Daisy or Star? Well my friends, it's both! It's like the famous optical illusion picture of the lady...do you see a duck or rabbit. This particular stitch is constructed by clustering stitches in a chain one space and skipping stitches from the previous row and when it's completed you have a field of daisies or stars...I call it the star stitch. Once you learn how to do the daisy/star stitch it pairs well with other stitches to make a visually pleasing and beautiful pattern. Written Instructions: Start with any ODD number. (To practice do at least 15.) Row 1 In the 2nd chain from the hook insert your hook and pull up a loop, insert and pull up a loop in the next chain. Skip (SK) the next chain, insert and pull up a loop in the next chain. YO and pull through all four loops on the hook. *Chain (CH) 1. Insert your hook into the hole the chain made and pull up a loop, insert and pull up a loop in the last chain you worked. SK the next stitch and pull up a loop in the next ST. Yarn over and pull through all the loops on your hook. Repeat from * to the end of the row. CH 3 and turn. (the first of those chain 3’s will be the one that closes up the daisy stitch.) Row 2 Insert and pull up a loop in the 2nd chain from the hook, insert and pull up a loop in the 3rd chain from the hook, SK next stitch, insert and pull up a loop in the hole that formed when you closed up the daisy in the row below. YO and pull through all loops on the hook. *CH 1, insert your hook into the hole the chain made and pull up a loop, insert and pull up a loop in the next hole, skip a ST and find the next hole and pull up a loop. YO and pull through all four loops on your hook. Repeat from * across to the end of the row. Video Instructions The video instructions are once again done by Daisy Farms. She is wonderful crafter and her videos are always easy to follow. The possibilities are as numerous as the stars... I don't think I have come across a stitch yet that you can't do one of the 3 with....blankets, dish clothes, or kitchen hot pads. Along with those 3 examples, here are a few more ideas that you can use this bright shiney stitch with including my own pattern for my "Starry Night" shawl. #bloggingthemoonCM #stitchofthemonth #simpledaisyandstars