Mostly we stay home and stitch hats and embroider, although sometimes we go out to coffee shops and do the same: these are known as stitch dates, and are generally the big event out for the week. There are a variety of economic reasons that make it so that we spend most of our time at home, but actually that's just an excuse.
The truth is, we rather like it that way.
We like being at home, and we like crafting. Sometimes though, either I run out of immediately available work, or my fingers get so needle-sore that I simply have to take a break. But to quote one of my favorite Dylan songs, I'm a real believer in "may your hands always be busy" so even when I can no longer stitch, I've got to have something to do with them.
Lately, that's where crocheting comes to play. I spent a good amount of time working on amigurumi, little scrubbies, and hats before the holidays for gifts. I've got a nice couple of mary jane slippers for myself. And now I am beginning my foray into clothing, actual clothing, for looking pretty.
Here are my favorites in order of difficulty. All are digital patterns available on Etsy. The purchase price is very low, and the pattern is emailed to you very quickly, in full color, in PDF form.
Leafy Lariat Scarf E-Pattern is available from timaryart on Etsy
I've already done this one. It was ridiculously easy for marvellous effect. It's all chain stitches, so even the most beginner crocheter can handle it. In fact, I gifted the pattern to one of my young students who just started to crochet and she proudly wore her creation to her lesson this week.
Exotic green shrug pattern available from Crocheteria on Etsy
I'm working on this one now. I'm a very proficient knitter, so the knitted bit in the back is going rather quick. I haven't begun the scalloped crocheted edge, and I'm a bit nervous. But I can learn, I am always confident in my ability to learn to do most anything when it comes to fibers. I'm doing mine in black with lime green at the edge. I think it will be fun at tango.
Cathedral Corset pattern available from crochetbayboutique on Etsy
I think this is just gorgeous, and again, I think it will be great for tango. Once the shrug is finished this will be my next project. I'm definitely going to fancy this one up. I wonder what color I should do it in. Wish I could get a new dress to go underneath.....
City Lights Shrug pattern available from crochetbayboutique on Etsy
And finally, the most difficult looking of all. But sooooooo pretty!!!!!! Could I do it? I don't even know. We'll have to see as I march along getting up to this point. Oh the beautiful drape. This would be so much fun to wear!
(Emily)