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. Say it with me...waa-tl...wattle! Besides being fun to say and creating images of fat little penguins (waddling) across the frozen snow, it is a beautiful stitch that works well for baby blankets, scarves, and dishcloths giving it a fun, squish feeling! To do this stitch you should be familiar with chaining, single crochet, skipping stitches and double crochet. Here are the instructions for this stitch: CHAIN Multiple of 3 ROW 1 Starting in the 3rd chain from the hook, *work SC, CH 1, DC. Skip two chains. Repeat from * across the row. When 3 chains remain, skip 2 and work 1 SC into the last chain. CH 2 and turn. ROW 2 Skipping the first two stitches, start in the first chain space with *SC, CH 1, DC. Skip two stitches. Repeat from * across the row ending with 1 SC in turning chain. CH 2 and turn. REPEAT ROW 2 I also found this wonderful video tutorial posted November 15, 2016 by Mama in a Stitch that shows the steps to creating the wattle stitch: Video Instructions Examples of the Wonderful Wattle Stitch Below are some beautiful examples of using the wattle stitch in blankets, washcloths, and handbags all done in a variation of great colors. #bloggingthemoonCM #stitchofthemonth #wattlestitch Check out The Crocheted Moons Fall/Winter Selection!

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. S-e-d-g-e, not Sage The puff like, shell pattern that this stitch creates really caught my eye. When I looked into this pretty stitch I found you only need to know basic crochet knowledge of chaining, single, half double and double crochets. You will be crocheting multiple stitches into one stitch and skipping stitches. As a result, the puff that is in this pattern appears due to three stitches into one. If this is all "Greek" to you (and even if you speak Greek) I found several illustrations that beautifully show the steps to this mesmerizing stitch: Add a little Sedge to your life! Look for the Sedge Stitch in beautiful items like these: hot pads, washcloths, dish towels, & pillows cases (the featured items below are not sold at The Crocheted Moon): #bloggingthemoonCM #stitchofthemonth #sedgestitch Check out The Crocheted Moons Fall/Winter Selection!

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. Old World Traditions I love living in the United States for many reasons, but during the holidays it usually has to do with all the traditions we've adopted. You don't have to travel the world to find different cultural experiences, you can probably walk next door to your neighbors where they each have their own way of celebrating that has been passed down through their family line. The love of hand crafted items is one that has been prevalent in my family for generations. We are full of crafters, sewers, crocheters, and cross stitchers. Infact, right now in my dining room is a colorful tree full of hand crafted ornaments made by family members. It started long before I could safely hold a glue gun and every Christmas we made an ornament to add to our collection. I have continued the tradition with my children, which is what go me thinking on the meaning and history of these well known Christmas decorations. Handmade Ornaments from Around the World-Denmark These fun ornaments may not be crocheted but they are fun for the family, easy to make and come with a great history. Julehjerte are a traditional Danish Christmas tree ornament made from interwoven red and white paper, the same colors as the Danish flag. Jule means Christmas, and hjert means heart, giving us Pleated Christmas Hearts in English. The oldest known julehjerte were made by Hans Christian Andersen , a famous Danish author know for his fairytales, in 1860. Children in Denmark make these at school and at home with their families every year. You can make this wonderful symbol of love for your Christmas tree by following the simple instructions below. To make Julehjerte, you’ll need two contrasting colors of paper, scissors and the template. Traditionally, they are made with red and white paper. The paper should be sturdy enough to hold its shape and hold candies, but not so stiff that there is no flexibility in the weaving. The one above was made with scrapbooking paper that wasn’t as stiff as cardstock. Use the template found here and get a little extra help with the tutorial found here . I’d recommend trying one first before making one with your kids – it’s fairly easy once you get the hang of it, but it might seem a little confusing at first. Once complete, you can even fill them with Christmas goodies like chocolates and candy! Common Ornaments and Their Meanings The Christmas Star: When Christ was born there was a great and shiny star in the sky and the star that we use to decorate our trees today is representative of the original Star of Bethlehem, Candy Canes: Are shaped like Shepherds crooks and Around 1900, the red stripes and peppermint flavoring were added. Christians believe that the red stripes represent the blood that Jesus shed on the cross and the peppermint flavoring represents the hyssop plant that was used for Biblical purification, Angels: Of course are to watch over us and keep our family and homes safe, but it also represents the angel that appeared in Bethlehem to announce the birth of Jesus, the angel Gabriel who told Mary she would give birth to Jesus. Now, Christmas tree ornaments have come to really represent the interests of each individual family and carry our own significant meanings. #bloggingthemoonCM #knowyourcrochet #ornamentspart2 Poinsettia or Christmas Star The Poinsettia is considered by the ancient Aztecs to be a symbol of purity, and in today's society is known as the December birth flower which symbolizes good cheer and success. They are also said to bring wishes of mirth and celebration and commonly come in colors of pink, red, white, or variegated. As a Christmas treat to you this year you can make your symbols of good cheer as ornaments or clips to use on hats or clothing.

Wondering what all your wonderful clothing pieces from The Crocheted Moon would look fantastic with...look no further. Here we'll show you what you can pair your pieces with, whether it's other items from the shop, or your own closet. Get ready to look great and feel confident! 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. Hot & Spicy for the cold weather! Fanny doesn't want to be a cold fish, let alone, a cold pair! She is looking for some great outerwear pieces that will keep her sung & looking fantastic at the same time. CM has a collection of stylish hats, like the Static Wave Beanie, the Rustic Slouch Hat, the Flowering Bobble Beanie, and the Aviator Beanie complete with aviator goggles, that is a match made in heaven when you pair it with our popular Paw Print scarf that comes in Spa, Silver Grey, & Sage. Now all you have to do is raid your closet and dust off your best coats and jackets, or if you need an excuse, go shopping and pick up the next hottest style of jacket this season. Watch the quick and fun video below to get your next winter fashion idea! #bloggingthemoonCM #fashionpairs #winterouterwear Movie Time! More fall/winter outerwear from CM

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. Griddle Stitch & I'm not talking about cookin' The Griddle Stitch is a beautiful stitch that is created by using a combination of simple crochet stitches. The fantastic thing about crocheting with a combination stitch like this, is that it looks the same on both sides, no "wrong side" & it still looks gorgeous. When your project is complete it will have a soft, bumpy look and feel to it. To me it makes things look more "vintage". How to work the stitch: ROW 1 Starting in the 2nd chain from hook, *work 1 SC. In the next stitch, work 1 DC. Repeat from * across the row. The last stitch made will be a DC. CH 1 and turn. ROW 2 Starting in the first stitch, *work 1 SC into the top of the DC of the previous row. 1 DC into the top of the next SC. Repeat from * across the row. The last stitch will be a DC. (Always DC into SC. Always SC into DC.) CH 1 and turn. Griddle me up some lovin'! What can't you make....below are some great ideas of what to use this fabulous stitch in like scarves, blankets, beanies, & earwarmers to name a few. The adorable Candy Corn Beanie is my creation & is sold on The Crocheted Moon website. #bloggingthemoonCM #stitchofthemonth #griddlestitch Check out The Crocheted Moons Fall/Winter Selection!

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. 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

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. Figuring out an age old question If you were like me especially in the beginning, you were standing in the yarn isle starring from the massive wall of yarn back to your phone while trying to do some math in your head (math was my worst subject in school). Well....no more! I found this nifty chart on Pinterest and immediately pinned it. You can tailor it to just about any project you’re doing to get a general idea of how much yarn you're going to need. If this chart does not suit your fancy, you can definitely google one and find something that speaks to you. The first thing you need to know as you're looking at your chart is the meaning of the yarn weights and the numbers related to them. Super Fine 1: Super fine yarn is lightweight and typically used for baby items, sock patterns, or shawls. Lacy items often fall under this category, as this type of yarn works best for creating delicate pieces. Fine 2: Sport weight yarn works best for items such as socks, wraps, heirloom sweaters, and other delicate accessories. It is also used for lightweight afghans. Light 3: Slightly heavier than a fine weight yarn, this weight is used for items such as garments and heavier baby items. Medium 4: Worsted weight yarn is the most frequently used. It is easy to work with (making it great for beginners), approximately double the weight of DK or sport yarn, and ideal for working up afghans. Bulky 5: Bulky yarn is about twice as thick as worsted weight. It usually works up quickly when using large needles/hooks, and it’s great to use when making sweaters, scarves, rugs, and throws. Super Bulky 6: Super bulky yarn is a thick yarn that works up quickly. It is most commonly used for cowls, scarves, and hats. Jumbo 7: Jumbo yarn is the thickest yarn weight, added in 2014 to classify the super thick yarns that began to appear on the market. Jumbo yarns are great for arm knitting and work up quickly. The wonderful thing about yarn weights is that the scale is pretty universal. If you are using one brand of yarn on a project and by some tragic fate you run out and cannot get it, you can use another brand with a similar color and the weight should match. You can even change the look of your project by using a different yarn weight to suit your style or use multiple yarn weights to give it a cool texture. What's the second thing I need to know? Make sure that once you choose the weight, you take the time to create a gauge swatch following the pattern to see how the stitches will look in the different weight and to ensure the project will turn out the size you want. A gauge what what...? In the picture below you can see the yarn weight, what size knitting needles you need and what size crochet hook (for this yarn you would use a 5mm hook). Around the hook size you see measurements in inches and centimeters. To decode this you look at the left side that says 4in x 4in and the top says 10 x 10 cm. At the bottom you see 13 sc and on the right side you it says 14R. This means that if crochet 13 Single Crochet stitches across and make it 14 rows high it should measure the stated measurements in inches and centimeters. If you're crochet swatch does not match, then you are either using the wrong size hook or you need to adjust your project measurements accordingly because it could require more or less yarn. Simple, right? Of course it is! Yarn weight brought to life! Here are some examples of items offered at The Crocheted Moon that show the different yarn weights and how you can mix and match them. #bloggingthemoonCM #knowyourcrochet #yarnweight

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. Herringbone, not just a fish I love the look of the Herringbone Half Double Stitch, especially when it comes to cool weather projects. I don't know if it's the name, or the pattern of the stitch, but it always makes me think of New England fishing docks with their cozy, warm sweaters. There are 2 things to remember with the Herringbone: First, is a variation from the half double that makes the stitches lean slightly in one direction and second, it must be worked back and forth in rows. The reason for this, is the back and forth alternates the leaning giving it it's unique look. If you would like to try the stitch out yourself, it's an easy stitch to crochet: YO, insert your hook, YO, pull up a loop and pull directly through first loop on hook, YO and pull through remaining two loops. Half the size, but not half the fun! If you haven't fallen in love with the stitch yet, you will. This time of year is a good time to keep a watchful eye on the horizon for cool winter projects that contain this beautiful stitch, such as these items below (items not offered on The Crocheted Moon website: #bloggingthemoonCM #stitchofthemonth #hdcherringbone Check out The Crocheted Moons Fall/Winter Selection!

The best thing about being part of a community, whether physical or virtual, is the support, creativity, and fun you can have as group. Here you can find testimonials of friends who have supported The Crocheted Moon and information for other local small businesses. It really does take a village to help us grow! Feel special, look great! Man, I have really talented friends and I love sharing their creations and nothing makes you feel more special than a tee that's designed just for you. My good friend Ashley is a whiz at vinyl lettering and design. She is the one that made my business window decal, my logo tees for The Crocheted Moon, and now the best Halloween shirt eveva...for the one of the best Halloween movies! She has some pre-made designs available and also takes SPECIAL REQUESTS. There is still time to grab some spook-tasitc tees for Halloween, but don't forget Thanksgiving, Christmas, sports fans, family pics, holiday pics, b-days, hobbies, or business. She has also done aprons and button up shirts w/logos on the pocket. She does amazing work, as you can see for yourself! You can contact her to order your shirt at: ashlaine.cga@gmail.com #bloggingthemoonCM #wilbertandfriends #creationsbyashley Fun Video...Wilbert & Friends Presents... Picture Gallery Just in case you didn't watch the video... Check out more from The Crocheted Moon!

Check this spot for new updates or changes to The Crocheted Moon or our products. Grand news! The response to pre-order fall items has been amazing! Thank you all very much (smiley face & a big heart :) So I have extended it into October and you can pre-order your fav fall expo item now. If you haven't and aren't familiar with how the pre-order process works, below are details on the Salt Lake Home Fall Expo and pre-ordering....don't forget to scroll down and follow me with the CM Expo Countdown! The Crocheted Moon goes to the Salt Lake Home Fall Expo Once again I am extremely excited to announce that I will be doing a fall expo at the Mountain America Expo Center. I am stocking up on all sorts of awesome & exclusive Crocheted Moon goodies! These one-of-a-kind CM items will make their first appearance at the Fall Expo going on November 11-13th, 2022. You will not be able to purchase them through The Crocheted Moon's website until Monday, November 21st. BUT...for a limited time during the month of October when you PRE-ORDER any of the exclusive handmade items listed you'll receive 15% OFF each item you order! There are also several delivery date options ranging from October thru December. How to Pre-order Watch this quick guide on how to pre-order any Fall Expo item through The Crocheted Moon's Website. New items for pre-order will be added weekly. #bloggingthemoonCM #CMupdates #fallexpo2022 Watch Me! Order Here Facebook Countdown...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. Treble, 3 times the fun! There is no mystery or complicated instructions behind the Treble (YO twice, insert your hook, YO and pull up a loop, YO and pull through two loops, YO and pull through two loops again, YO and pull through remaining two loops) it's what comes after the Double Crochet..... but it can be used to create a lot of fun things. Like ruffles for sweaters, vests, skirts, or blanket edges -------------------------------> Or intricate features for lovable plush such as eyebrows, mouths, or chins <--------------------------- What Else does it do? Well, that's a good question....it helps elongate a pattern, creates height, and can make a project light airy. Just take a look at these fun and amazing ideas! #bloggingthemoonCM #stitchofthemonth #theterrifictreble Want more from The Crocheted Moon....take a peek!

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. How to pick your size when it matters The size of a crochet hook depends on the thickness of the cylinder, which is what establishes the size of the stitches. In the United States, hook sizes are usually listed with a letter and a number (ex: H-5mm), although some have only a letter or a number. Finding the right size for a crochet hook is important because it determines the gauge (number of stitches per square inch) of your crochet . Smaller hooks make finer and tighter crochet, while larger hooks produce a bulkier, more open weave. When you buy your skein of yarn, on the label it will suggest what size hook to use, but you may need to switch to a different size to achieve the correct gauge. Hook Tips....Like "Don't crochet with the wrong end?" Although all crochet hooks have a hook at the tip, there are two main types of tip: inline and tapered. Inline hooks look like a cylinder with a notch cut out to form the hook. Tapered hooks have a more rounded hook at the tip and the hook extends just past the cylinder or handle. No matter which type you choose, always be sure to slide your crochet stitches all the way onto the cylinder portion of the hook so they are the correct size. If the stitches stay too close to the tip, they may end up small or uneven. They both work the same so you can use what you like the best, however I prefer the tapered tip because I feel the yarn slides from the hook to the cylinder part easier creating a smoother motion. I believe this also helps with your tension so you don't pull your yarn too tight. My what a good grip you have! Everyone holds their crochet hook a little differently, but what's most important is that you're comfortable as you work. Generally most people will use one of these two main grip styles. The first style is the knife grip. For this, you hold the hook similar to when you use a knife for cutting food. Grip the hook with your thumb and three fingers, placing your index finger on the top of the hook to help keep it steady to guide it. The other common style is the pencil grip. With this method, you hold the hook just like you hold a pencil, gripping it with your thumb and index finger while keeping it steady with your hand and bent fingers. As for me and my house, well just me, I use the pencil grip because I feel I can control the size of my stitches better. Look at Ms. Fancy Pants... No matter what size of hook you're using, the type of tip, or your grip...if you love to crochet you must do it in style and comfort. First, let's talk about comfort, because if there's anything we've learned from life...comfort is key! The motion of crocheting after a while can unfortunately start to cause joint pain. So, my husband, being the wonderful guy he is, did some research and found these ergonomic hooks with special handles that help alleviate soreness from repetitive action. And you must believe they did exactly what they claimed, so much better than the simple steel hooks. But they too have their merits. You can find them at just about any store with a craft section and they are a good price range especially for beginner crocheters. Now to the fun part! Not only can you get your hooks and handles in a wide variety of colors, but you can find just about any type of print that suits your fancy. The crazy prints also make for great gifts for yourself or for a fellow crocheter. But don't forget about storage. Storing your beloved hooks is just as important as the cat print crochet hooks you just spent hours scouring the internet for. You can make your own holder (a crocheted case for crochet hooks) or you can use a case like the flower print one below (I have one like that) or a super fancy one to keep all your crochet supplies in like the last example (which also has cats on it). So if you haven't found the right hook for your hand yet, hopefully this helps, and if you have, you can never have too many different designs in your collection! #bloggingthemoonCM #knowyourcrochet #hooksizematters