Circle in a Square Motif Squares #23 & 24

We're just about to 2017!  And I think that 2016 has been hard on a great many of us.  Fortunately, I remember plenty of good things that happened through the year.  I am always grateful to feel like I have a new year to work with, to change and make things different - or better.  Truthfully though, I feel like each day is a gift where we get to start new.  I hope for better things for all of us.  I often feel though that the opportunity for betterment lies in our perspective on what life serves up to us rather than what we actually find on our plates.

As for our pattern for the last two squares of the year, it's a lovely circle in a square motif.  It's a beautiful motif for scarves or shawls, or even a unique sweater or blanket.  Not too tricky, but a fun change from the traditional granny square.


Square #23

Square #24

Pattern

Ch 4, sl st to beginning ch to form ring.

Rnd 1:  Ch 3, make 15 dc in ring, sl st to top of beginning ch to join.  (16 dc, beginning ch-3 counts as dc).

Rnd 2:  Sl st between beginning ch-3 and next dc from previous rnd.  Ch 5 (counts as dc, ch 2), [dc in between next 2 dc, ch 2] 15 times.  Sl st to 3rd ch of beginning ch-5 to join.  (16 ch-2 spaces)

Rnd 3:  Sl st in next ch-2 sp, ch 3, 2 dc in same sp.  [Ch 1, skip next dc, 3 dc in next ch-2 sp] 15 times.  Ch 1, skip next dc, sl st to top of beginning ch to join.  Fasten off and weave in ends. 

Rnd 4:  Join new color in any ch-1 sp, sc in same space.  *[ch 3, skip next 3 dc, sc in next ch-1 sp] 3 times, ch 5 (corner loop made), sc in next ch-1 sp.  Repeat from * 3 times, omitting final sc of last repeat.  Sl st to beginning sc to join.  (12 ch-3 spaces 7 & 4 ch-5 corner spaces)

Rnd 5:   Sl st in next ch-3 sp, ch 3, 2 dc in same sp, [ch 1, skip next sc, 3 dc in next ch-3 sp] twice, ch 1, [5 dc, ch 2, 5 dc] in next ch-5 sp, *[ch 1, skip next sc, 3 dc in next ch-3 sp] 3 times, ch 1, [5 dc ch 2, 5 dc] in next ch-5 sp.  Repeat from * 2 times.  Ch 1, skip next sc.  Sl st to top of beginning ch-3 to join.  

Rnd 6:  Sl st in next 2 dc, sl st in ch-1 sp.  Ch 1, sc in same ch-1 sp.  (Ch 3, sc in next ch-1 sp) twice.  *Ch 5, sc in corner ch-2 sp, ch 5, sc in same corner sp.  Ch 5**. (Sc in next ch-1 sp, ch 3) 3 times.  Sc in next ch-1 sp.  Repeat from * 3 times ending last repeat at **.  Sc in next ch-1 sp, ch 3, sl st to beginning sc to join.  

Rnd 7:  Sl st to next ch-3 sp.  Ch 3, make 2 dc in same ch-3 sp.  Make 3 dc in next ch-3 sp.  *5 dc in next ch-5 sp.  (3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc) in corner ch-5 sp.  5 dc in next ch-5 sp**.  (3 dc in ch-3 sp) 3 times.  Repeat from * 3 times, ending last repeat at **.  Make 3 dc in next ch-3 sp.  Sl st to top of beginning ch-3 to join.

Rnd 8:  Ch 3 (counts as dc), *dc in each dc to corner ch-1 sp.  Dc, ch 1, dc in corner ch-1 sp.  Repeat from * 3 times.  Dc in each remaining dc.  Sl st to top of beginning ch-3 to join.    

Rnd 9:  Repeat row 8.  Fasten off and weave in ends.  

Note on the color variations:  Square #23 is done with one color on the first 3 rounds, and another color for the rest of the rounds.  For square #24, a different color is used for round 1, round 2, and round 3, and the color chosen for round 4 will finish out the motif.

Happy New Year friends!

XOXO - Taralee

Granny Squares 11 & 12

Well my friends, June is practically over.  This post is well overdue, but I do have some rather good excuses for being late on this one.

Excuse #1: Family trip to Maui.

My awesome kids on the beach in Maui June 2016

My sweet parents-in-law took their whole family (kids, grandkids, etc) to Maui to celebrate their 50th anniversary.  It was a great time with lots of beaches and much needed relaxation.

 Excuse #2: New puppy.

8 week old pug puppy named Waddles

Would you look at that face?  Well, I never in a million years thought I would be getting a house pet (my mother didn't like them, and admittedly I am not the best housekeeper) - but we did.  After some deliberation with an old friend (my daughter's aide from a few years back when she was in kindergarten - who is now a dog trainer), we concluded to get a family dog.  The intent is to train her as a therapy and service dog for my girl.  She wanders occasionally - and although the family cat does sometimes follow her around the neighborhood, we can train the dog to actually alert us when she is going and help us find her.  I have never owned a dog - so I went to the library last week and checked out a whole stack of books on dogs.  I still don't know what I'm doing, but am happy to report that so far she has gone to the bathroom outside only and doesn't bark or whine much at all.  Beyond that, I have no idea what I am doing.  I think our friend will come to visit sometime next week to give us some tips and instruction on what to do.

Ok, moving on to business!

The basic granny square.  This was truly one of the first things I learned to make when I started crocheting as a child.  My sweet step-grandmother that lived next door taught me to crochet.  I would visit her in the evening (my grandfather had passed on years before, so she was alone) and while she watched her evening soaps (Dallas and Dynasty) I would work on my crochet skills.  We made granny squares out of all of her scraps and odds and ends.  I am definitely fond of granny squares - especially the traditional ones.  Square #11 is the most basic granny square.  You can make it all the same color - or change colors on some of the rounds as is often done.  Square #12 is a definite twist on the traditional granny square, I call it a diagonal granny.  It uses two colors, but instead of switching the colors on certain rounds, it's actually worked back and forth turning at the end of each round if that makes sense.  Below is a picture of one pattern that combines these two squares.  The possibilities are absolutely endless - just check out google or pinterest for half-triangle square quilts for some fantastic inspiration.

Granny Star Afghan by taraduff 2016

Square #11

Square #12 Diagonal Granny

Pattern

Ch 4, sl st to beginning ch to make a ring.

Rnd 1:  Ch 3 (counts as dc in this and all other rnds).  Make 2 dc in ring.  *Ch 3.  Make 3 dc in ring.  Repeat from * 2 times. Ch 1.  Hdc in top of beginning ch 3 to join.

Rnd 2:  Ch 3.  *Make 2 dc around post of hdc from previous rnd.  *Ch 1.  (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc) in next ch-3 sp.  Repeat from * 2 times.  Ch 1.  (3 dc, ch 1) in next ch sp.  Hdc in top of beginning ch 3 to join.

Rnd 3:  Ch 3.  Make 2 dc around post of hdc from previous rnd.  *Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp. (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc) in next ch-3 sp.  Repeat from * 2 times.  Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp.  Ch 1.  (3 dc, ch 1) in next ch sp.  Hdc in top of beginning ch 3 to join.

Rnd 4:  Ch 3.  Make 2 dc around post of hdc from previous rnd.  *(Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp) twice. (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc) in next ch-3 sp.  Repeat from * 2 times.  (Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp) twice.  Ch 1.  (3 dc, ch 1) in next ch sp.  Hdc in top of beginning ch 3 to join.

Rnd 5:  Ch 3.  Make 2 dc around post of hdc from previous rnd.  *(Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp) 3 times. (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc) in next ch-3 sp.  Repeat from * 2 times.  (Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp) three times.  Ch 1.  (3 dc, ch 1) in next ch sp.  Hdc in top of beginning ch 3 to join.

Rnd 6:  Ch 3.  Make 2 dc around post of hdc from previous rnd.  *(Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp) 4 times. (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc) in next ch-3 sp.  Repeat from * 2 times.  (Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp) 4 times.  Ch 1.  (3 dc, ch 1) in next ch sp.  Hdc in top of beginning ch 3 to join.

Rnd 7:  Ch 3.  Make 2 dc around post of hdc from previous rnd.  *(Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp) 5 times. (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc) in next ch-3 sp.  Repeat from * 2 times.  (Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp) 5 times.  Ch 1.  (3 dc, ch 1) in next ch sp.  Hdc in top of beginning ch 3 to join.

Rnd 8:  Ch 3.  Make 2 dc around post of hdc from previous rnd.  *(Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp) 6 times. (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc) in next ch-3 sp.  Repeat from * 2 times.  (Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp) 6 times.  Ch 1.  (3 dc, ch 1) in next ch sp.  Hdc in top of beginning ch 3 to join.

Rnd 9:  Ch 3.  Make 2 dc around post of hdc from previous rnd.  *(Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp) 7 times. (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc) in next ch-3 sp.  Repeat from * 2 times.  (Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp) 7 times.  Ch 1.  (3 dc, ch 1) in next ch sp.  Hdc in top of beginning ch 3 to join.

Diagonal Two Tone Granny

Note - when changing colors, do not cut previous color, just drop the previous color and pick up the new color.  Turn at the end of each rnd to work the next rnd in the opposite direction.

With A, ch 4, sl st to beginning ch to make a ring.

Rnd 1:  Ch 3 (counts as dc in this and all other rnds).  Make 2 dc in ring.  *Ch 3.  Make 3 dc in ring.  Ch 3.  Switch to color B.  With B, 3 dc in ring, ch 3, 3 dc in ring, ch 1, hdc in top of beginning ch 3 to join.  Turn to work Rnd 2 in opposite direction.

Rnd 2:  Ch 3.  Make 2 dc around post of hdc from previous rnd.  Ch 1.  (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc) in next ch-3 sp.  Ch 1, (3 dc, ch 3) in next ch-3 sp.  Pick up color A.  With A, make 3 dc in same ch-3 sp. Ch 1, (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc) in next ch-3 sp.  Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch sp, ch 1.  Hdc in top of beginning ch 3 to join.  Turn to work Rnd 3 in opposite direction.

Rnd 3: Ch 3.  Make 2 dc around post of hdc from previous rnd.  Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp.  Ch 1.  (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc) in next ch-3 sp.  Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp.  Ch 1, (3 dc, ch 3) in next ch-3 sp.  Pick up color B.  With B, make 3 dc in same ch-3 sp. Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp.  Ch 1.  (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc) in next ch-3 sp.  Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp.  Ch 1, (3 dc, ch 1) in next ch sp.  Hdc in top of beginning ch 3 to join.  Turn to work Rnd 4 in opposite direction.

Rnd 4:  Ch 3.  Make 2 dc around post of hdc from previous rnd.  (Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp) twice.  Ch 1.  (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc) in next ch-3 sp.  (Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp) twice.  Ch 1, (3 dc, ch 3) in next ch-3 sp.  Pick up color A.  With A, make 3 dc in same ch-3 sp. (Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp) twice.  Ch 1.  (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc) in next ch-3 sp.  (Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp) twice.  Ch 1, (3 dc, ch 1) in next ch sp.  Hdc in top of beginning ch 3 to join.  Turn to work Rnd 5 in opposite direction.

Continue working in this manner until square measures 10 inches.

I'm just getting an email list going - so if you'd like to sign up for a 20% off discount code for my Etsy shop, visit http://eepurl.com/bYEGUz

Have a lovely 4th of July!

XOXO  - Taralee

Seersucker Crochet Squares #1 & 2

It's an overcast, dreary, cold day today.  Sounds typical for this time of year - at least where I live :-)  If you find yourself somewhere warm and sunny - send some my way!

Ok - so lets get going on these squares, shall we?

We'll start off our afghan with the seersucker squares.  This is a super simple pattern that utilizes basic increases and decreases to create a seersucker effect.  It's a rather unexpected twist for crochet, not something seen too often.  I love unexpected things in crochet - they make life more exciting - in a good way!

Here is the solid version of the square.

seersucker crochet square #1

And here it is striped, using a different color on the increase and decrease rows to accent the ripples created with this stitch pattern.

seersucker crochet square #2

Once you learn the pattern - it's very versatile and makes the fabric super interesting.  I used a self-patterning yarn in the seersucker baby blanket below.  This is an awesome project if you or someone you know has a baby coming in the near future.

seersucker crochet baby blanket

Seersucker Crochet Squares Pattern

Yarn and Gauge Information here

Note:  Turning chains DO NOT count as stitches in this pattern.  Stitch counts at ends of rows do not include the ch 2 or ch 3, only the specified stitches are counted.  

Special stitch:
dc2tog (double crochet 2 together):  Yarn over (YO), insert hook in stitch, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook).  YO hook, pull through 2 loops.  YO hook insert in next st, pull up a loop (4 loops on hook).  YO, pull through 2 loops (3 loops on hook).  YO pull through last 3 loops. 

Foundation Ch & Row 1: Ch 33. Hdc in 3rd ch from hook and each remaining ch. Turn.
Row 2: Ch 2. Hdc in each hdc from previous row. (31 hdc) Turn.
Row 3:  Repeat row 2.
Row 4: Ch 3. Dc in first hdc. Make 2 dc in each remaining hdc. (61 dc) Turn.
Row 5: Ch 2. *Dc2tog in next 2 dc. Repeat from * until one dc remains. Dc in last dc. (31 stitches) Turn.
Row 6: Ch 2. Hdc in each stitch across. (31 hdc). Turn.
Row 7, 8: Repeat row 2.
Rows 9-23: Repeat rows 4-8

For 2 color striped variation:
Rows 4 & 5 use color B.  All other rows use A.

Join the conversation and share your progress on social media #taraduff2016cal

2016 Crochet-A-Long Sampler Afghan Introduction

January brings birthdays for us - one is my sweet baby girl (I know she's 9, but she will always be my baby girl), and the other is my 11 yr old (soon to be 12).  My girlie's b-day was on Saturday.  It's a fine line to walk with a child with autism on their birthday.  How to celebrate in a way that is going to work for them is the dilemma.  Making peer friends is challenging for her - plus all of the hullaballoo of a big party would be a bit much for her.  This year she asked to go to the local trampoline park, and was happy with a cake (which she asks for but never touches), some organic gfcf homemade rice crispy treats (that she happily ate) and opening presents.  One January birthday down and one to go.  My 11 yr old really does enjoy a party, lots of friends, a true birthday cake and ice cream.  So that's in store next week.

Well friends, are you ready to see our crochet-a-long project for 2016?  I'm keeping with the theme of 10 inch squares, so these will be totally interchangeable with the squares from our 2015 project.  

Some folks like sampler afghans, some don't.  I happen to fall into the 'love' sampler afghans category.  I have a pretty large stash of yarn - and love putting it to use.  My parents were the type to pick up yarn whenever they would find it at a yard sale and bring it to me.  So - when they brought me yarn, it was typically by the box, and often pretty random colors and types.  So, instead of purchasing yarn to make sure this project was all matchy matchy, I just pulled various yarns from my stash to use.  One thing I have found, is that as a general rule, a border will go a long way in tying randomness together.  So, while I really did use just whatever I had around for the blocks, I picked one yarn to border all of the blocks with, join them together, and put a final border around the entire thing.  In our 2015 project, the blocks were all whipstitched together at the end.  This one is a join-as-you-go (jaygo) project.  This means that as you add the finishing border to the blocks, you'll actually be joining the blocks in the final round.  If you've never done a jaygo project, it's a great technique to learn!

Here is a photo of my finished afghan, but remember yours will look different depending on the yarn you use!

taraduff 2016 CAL

This afghan is essentially made of only 12 different squares - however, each square has a variation so all 24 squares are different.  Some of the variations are simple color changes and others are a little more complex.  For example, the granny square block on the 4th row down, 3rd block from the left and the granny square block on the bottom right hand corner are the same pattern.  One has color changes in rounds, and the other features the color change on the diagonal.  The exact same stitches produce a very different look with a simple change.  So - we'll be doing one block each month and one variation to that block.

Things you will need:

Yarn:  #4 yarns (worsted) from your stash (some yarns featured in mine are caron simply soft, red heart soft and Deborah Norville Everyday Worsted) For the border, I used 3-4 skeins Caron Simply Soft in Dark Grey Heather

Hook size: US H8/5.00mm (or size needed to obtain gauge)
Gauge:  In double crochet 13 stitches x 10 rows = 4 inches square

This is the only gauge I will give for this project.  Each square is a different stitch pattern, so watch your blocks that they all turn out approximately the same size (10 inches square)

And here's one more pic of the afghan. 

Anywho - the first two blocks are coming soon.  I promise I'll have them posted early next week.

Taraduff's 2015 CAL Sampler Afghan Square #24

Well well, here we are.  It's December 31st, 2015, the last day of the year.  Are you ready to close the book on 2015?  Ready or not, it's coming to a close.  I remember thinking last year how glad I was for the year to be over.  I had lost my mother and a baby that year.  And do you know I thought the same thing the year before after losing another baby.  Trials come, whether we are ready for them or not.  It makes me super sad to think of how glad I have been to say goodbye to the last few years.  Can I hope to make 2016 the best year ever?  Who knows what is coming our way, but does it really matter?  I have certainly learned that there are events that occur in life over which we have little to no control.  I can choose to more fully enjoy the gifts that am blessed with each day.  I can choose to alter my perspective to look for the silver lining in all things - regardless of whether they appear to be good or bad.  I am hoping that 2016 will be filled with sunshine and roses, but more than that I hope that I will be successful in seeing the sunshine and roses that undoubtedly will be there.

So here we are, on our last square of the project.  Do you have the other squares all finished?  No worries whether you do or do not, the patterns are there for whenever you get to them.  Here are the links to all of the other squares for this project : Introduction, Square #1, Square #2, Square #3, Square #4, Square #5, Square #6, Square #7, Square #8, Square #9, and Square #10, #11, #12, #13, #14, #15, #16, #17, #18, #19, and #20, # 21, and #22. and #23.  If you are a pinner, you can find them on pinterest here.  And I'd love for you to join me on facebook,  twitter, and instagram!

I'm calling square #24 my puff stitch combo square.  It doesn't have an official name that I know of, but it does have puff stitches combined with other stitches - so puff stitch combo sounds great to me :-)  Anywho, this is a fairly solid stitch pattern with lots of texture and interest.  I used it in the Harvest Poncho to add some fun color and texture.

Block #24 Puff Stitch Combo

Pattern

Special stitch
Puff Stitch:  (Yo, draw up a loop in designated stitch) 3 times.  Yo, pull through all 7 loops.

Note:
Begin this square with C.  Work 1 row with C, then work 2 rows with B.  Next work 2 rows with C.  Continue by alternating colors every 2 rows for remaining squares.  Do not cut the yarn when switching colors, just drop it and pick up the next color.

Foundation ch and Row 1:  Ch 30.  Sc in second ch from hook and in each remaining ch.  (29 sc) Turn.
Row 2:  Ch 3 (counts as first dc here and throughout).  *Skip 2 stitches.  (Puff stitch, ch 2, puff stitch) in next stitch.  Repeat from * until 2 stitches remain.  Skip one stitch.  Dc in last stitch.  Turn.
Row 3:  Ch 1.  Sc in first stitch.  *(Sc, dc, sc) in next ch-2 sp.  Repeat from * until all ch-2 spaces are worked.  Sc in top of turning ch.  Turn.
Row 4:  Ch 1.  Scblo in each stitch across.  (29 sc)  Turn.
Row 5:  Ch 1.  Sc in each sc.  Turn
Rows 6-24:  Repeat rows 2-5, ending with row 4.

In the next week or so I'll post tips on stitching the squares together and also post the pattern for the lovely border.  And - there will be another crochet-a-long afghan project for 2016.  I'll continue with 10 inch blocks since that's what we've been doing.  I like having a stack of 10 inch blocks around to put together for an whenever I need an afghan for something.

Much love to you crochet friends - enjoy the holiday we'll get to assembling our blocks soon!!!

Taraduff's 2015 CAL Sampler Afghan Square #23

Well, I meant to have this posted a week ago.  So much for that!  I could list all my excuses, but I will spare you the details.  Most of us have pretty busy lives this time of year ;-)

So this square is our last solid square for this project.  Just one more to go and you'll have all 24 squares and we'll be ready to assemble the afghan!   Remember, you can go to the following links for all of the previous squares : Introduction, Square #1, Square #2, Square #3, Square #4, Square #5, Square #6, Square #7, Square #8, Square #9, and Square #10, #11, #12, #13, #14, #15, #16, #17, #18, #19, and #20, # 21, and #22.  They are on pinterest here.  And how about joining me on facebook and twitter too!

The stitch for this square is a 'cross stitch pattern'.  It is called this because one double crochet actually crosses over another one leaving an 'X' look to the stitch pattern.  This is a super versatile pattern that could be used in all sorts of things from scarves to blankets.  I used it in the placemat below in the pineapple motif since the little x's reminded me of the texture on a pineapple.

Perfect Pineapples Crochet Placemat pattern Taraduff 2015

Block #23 Cross Stitch

taraduff's 2015 CAL sampler afghan square #23 Cross Stitch

Pattern

Foundation ch and row 1:  Ch 27.  Sc in second ch from hook and in each remaining ch.  Turn.
Row 2:  Ch 3.  Skip first stitch.  *Skip next stitch, dc in next st.  Working around dc just made, dc in skipped stitch.  Repeat from * across to last stitch.  Dc in last stitch.  Turn.
Rows 3-14:  Repeat row 2.
Row 15:  Ch 1.  Sc in each stitch across. (26 sc)  Fasten off and weave in ends.  
 

taraduff's 2015 CAL sampler afghan square #23 Cross Stitch pattern close-up

Merry Christmas to you!  Here's wishing you time to relax and enjoy the season with your loved ones!

Taraduff's 2015 CAL Sampler Afghan Square #22

Hi friends!  Did you have a stellar Thanksgiving?  Hopefully you got to have your very favorite kind of pie!  Besides crocheting - cooking is my other love.  So if you didn't, and want to come for a visit, let me know beforehand and I'll gladly whip up your favorite pie!  Mine happens to be apple - and I will readily admit I am a total apple pie snob.  I have yet to try an apple pie that I LOVE as much as my own.    I don't use a fancy recipe - seriously, just the basic apple pie recipe from Betty Crocker or Better Homes and Gardens.  It's about the method.  A traditional well-made pastry crust (nice and flakey), and thinly sliced apples that meld together when cooked.  Yum!  Do you follow me on instagram?  I posted a picture the day before Thanksgiving of my beloved pie.  If only pictures captured divine aromas.......

Alright then.  We are on square # 22 my friends!  So close to being done and ready to assemble!!!  Wahoo!

 If you're just joining me, WELCOME!  Following are links to this crochet-a-long project and all of the previous squares : Introduction, Square #1, Square #2, Square #3, Square #4, Square #5, Square #6, Square #7, Square #8, Square #9, and Square #10, #11, #12, #13, #14, #15, #16, #17, #18, #19, and #20, and # 21.  Find them all on pinterest here.  And I'd love to have you follow me on facebook and twitter too to get updated when a new square pattern is published.

November's colorwork square is super interesting.  The stitches are very basic, single crochet and chain stitches are all that are used.  The result is fantastic though - lots of texture and interest when using various colors.  I love it in the Happy Homestead Christmas Stocking.

Happy Homestead Christmas Stocking designed by taraduff 2015

 Block #22 Jacob's Ladder

taraduff's 2015 CAL sampler afghan square #22 Jacob's Ladder

Foundation ch & row 1:  With B, ch 29.  Sc in second ch from hook and each remaining ch.  Turn.
Row 2, 3:  With B, Ch 1.  Sc in each sc. (28 sc).  Turn.
Row 4:  With B, ch 1.  Sc in first 4 sc.  **Ch 12.  Sc in next 4 sc.  Repeat from * across until 4 stitches remain.  Ch 12.  Sc in next 4 sc.  Turn.
Rows 5-7:  With B, repeat row 2. (Keep chain loops to the back when working row 4)
Row 8:  With A, repeat row 4.
Rows 9-11:  With A, repeat row 2. 
Rows 12-31:  Repeat rows 4-11 ending with row 7.
Before moving on to row 32, chain loops together by pulling each loop through the one below.
Row 32:  Continuing with B, ch 1.  Sc in first 4 sc.  *Inserting hook in next ch-12 loop, sc in next sc (this secures the cable loop chain in place).  Sc in next 3 sc.  Repeat from * until 4 stitches remain.  Inserting hook in next ch-12 loop, sc in next sc.  Sc in last 3 sc.  Turn.
Rows 33-36:  With B, repeat row 2.  Fasten off and weave in ends.

taraduff's 2015 CAL sampler afghan square #22 Jacob's Ladder close-up of stitch pattern

If you find the part following row 31 confusing where you chain the loops together, here is a photo from a Christmas stocking with part of the chains looped together that might be helpful.

Above photo shows chain loops being looped together.  Take bottom loop and pull it through the loop just above.  Continue this process until all loops are looped together and only the top loops are loose.  Row32 secures the top loops in place.

Only two more squares to go!  And I've been thinking long and hard about a 2016 CAL (crochet-a-long) project.  I would love to hear from you!  What things would you like to learn?  Please comment below! 

Taraduff's 2015 CAL Sampler Afghan Square #21

This month has been much better than last thank goodness!  I did get good news, and am now on my way to rebuilding my health.  Thanks for the thoughts and prayers.  They have been so helpful and appreciated!

The weather's turned cold here, and I find myself by the fireplace curled up with my hook and some lovely yarn whenever I can.  It is that time of year - time to get working on holiday gifts, or just something warm and cozy to suit the weather.

If you're just joining in, WELCOME!  It's not too late to start!  Click on the links to get caught up: Introduction, Square #1, Square #2, Square #3, Square #4, Square #5, Square #6, Square #7, Square #8, Square #9, and Square #10, #11, #12, #13, #14, #15, #16, #17, #18, #19, and #20.  You can find them all on pinterest here. And follow me on facebook and twitter too for updates when a new square pattern is published.

November's solid square features a 'slant stitch' pattern.  Slanted lines are created by skipping a stitch, making a few double crochet stitches and then making a double crochet stitch back into the skipped stitch working over the just made stitches.  This creates a slanted line across the group of stitches which is where it gets it's name.  It's featured in the Willow Flats Convertible Scarf.  The rows of slant stitch are the small black stripes in between the blue stripes in this particular scarf.  If you look at the photo, you can see the slanted lines in those rows.

Willow Flats Convertible Scarf modeled by Mitch, taraduff 2015

Willow Flats Convertible Scarf taraduff 2015

Block #21 Slant Stitch

taraduff's 2015 CAL sampler afghan square #21 Slant Stitch

Foundation ch and row 1:  Ch 29.  Sc in second ch from hook and in each remaining chain. (28 sc)  Turn.
Row 2:  Ch 3.  Skip first sc.  Dc in next sc.  *Skip next sc, dc in next 3 sc, yarn over, insert hook in skipped sc and draw up a loop even with hook, (yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook) twice.  Repeat from * across.  Dc in last 2 sc.  Turn.
Row 3:  Ch 1, sc in each stitch across.  (28 sc)  Turn.
Rows 4-19:  Repeat rows 2 & 3 ending with row 2.  Fasten off and weave in ends.

taraduff's 2015 CAL sampler afghan square #21 Slant Stitch close-up of stitch pattern

If you need a super easy scrumptious pie to whip up for your upcoming Thanksgiving feast, try my favorite chocolate pie.  I've assigned it to my 14 yr old son this year, so we'll see how he does! 

Taraduff's 2015 CAL Sampler Afghan Square #19

October is now upon us.  Time to plan the Halloween costumes and carve the pumpkins!  I am super glad to have September over.  My son's surgery went so much better than we had hoped, so thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all of the good thoughts and wishes and prayers.  It was wonderful to have some great news, we certainly needed it!  And he's back up and running and ready to roll!  I'm still a work in progress, but I guess I must be content with that for now.  I've been to see so many Dr's and specialists in the last little while.  It's never comforting to hear how anxious they are to see you, but although they've heard of what you have, they've never actually treated anyone with it before.  But that's alright, I have too many blessings to stay focused on the current challenges.

If you're just joining in, WELCOME!  Click on the following links to get caught up: Introduction, Square #1, Square #2, Square #3, Square #4, Square #5, Square #6, Square #7, Square #8, Square #9, and Square #10, #11, #12, #13, #14, #15, #16, #17, and #18.  You can find links to all of them on pinterest here. And be sure to follow me on facebook and twitter to get updates when a new square pattern is posted.

October's first square is our solid square.  This is a lacy square with those 'holes' that are so associated with crochet pieces.  Now we now that crochet comes in all sorts of fun forms - solid, lacy, thick, thin - but the traditionally thought of crochet is the more holey granny square type of crochet.  This stitch pattern fits that classic idea with the nice texture and holes.  I probably would not use it for a pair of mittens or socks where I wanted great warmth and coverage - but for a scarf, vest or sweater it would work great.  If you like fine yarns or thread - this is perfect for a lacey skirt or shawl.  In the Shenandoah Scoodie it is featured in the body of the scarf.  This is one of my favorite Sunday scarves for my girl when the weather gets a bit nippy.

Shenandoah Scoodie crochet hooded scarf pattern

 Block #19

taraduff's 2015 CAL sampler afghan square #19 Lacey Square

Block #19 Lacy Square

Foundation Ch row 1:  Ch 32.  Sc in second ch from hook.  Sc in next ch.  Ch 3, skip 3 ch.  (Sc in next 3 ch, ch 3, skip 3 ch) across.  Sc in last 2 ch.  Turn.
Row 2: Ch 1.  Sc in first sc.  (Skip 1 sc, 5 dc in next ch-3 sp, skip 1 sc, sc in next sc) across.  Turn.
Row 3:  Ch 3.  Skip 2 stitches.  Sc in next 3 dc.  (Ch 3, skip next 3 stitches, sc in next 3 dc) across.  Ch 2.  Skip 1 stitch, sc in last sc.
Row 4:  Ch 2, turn.  skip 1 sc, 3 dc in ch-2 space.  Skip 1 sc, sc in next sc (skip 1 sc, 5 dc in next ch-3 space, skip 1 sc, sc in next sc) across.  Make 3 dc in last ch-3 sp.  Turn.
Row 5:   Ch 1, sc in first 2 dc.  (Ch 3, skip 3 stitches, sc in next 3 dc) across.  Ch 3, skip 3 stitches, sc in last 2 stitches.
Rows 6 -21:  Repeat rows 2-5 four more times.

taraduff's 2015 CAL sampler afghan square #19 Lacey Square close-up of stitch pattern

Shenandoah Scoodie crochet hooded scarf pattern

One last picture to share, my sunshine girl LOVES small animals.   Elephants are a favorite.  She had to be sure I was getting her little elephant 'Peanut' in some of the photos. 

Taraduff's 2015 CAL Sampler Afghan Square #18

Well, I finally got a diagnosis of what was causing some of the health issues I've had going on.  They tell me I have a super rare 'disease' going on that occurs in 1 in 200,000 people.  It's called retroperitoneal fibrosis.  So - if you or someone you know has this - I'd love to chat!  I'm going to try the recommended treatment for it and hope and pray for the best.  This is one time that I'm not sure I love being so unique! 

If you're just joining in, WELCOME!  Click on the following links to get caught up: Introduction, Square #1, Square #2, Square #3, Square #4, Square #5, Square #6, Square #7, Square #8, Square #9, and Square #10, #11, #12, #13, #14, & #15, #16, #17.  You can find links to all of them on pinterest here. And be sure to follow me on facebook and twitter to get updates when a new square pattern is posted.

For September's colorwork square - we are doing a mitered square.  This mitered square is done in a single crochet stitch and makes a solid fabric.  If you do a mitered square search on pinterest, you'll find lots of fun possibilities.  Grovers Corners Afghan is just one example of what you can make with mitered squares.

Grovers Corners Afghan by Taraduff 2015

 Block #18

taraduff's 2015 CAL sampler afghan square #18 Mitered Square

 Block #18 Mitered Square

Begin this square with C. Work 2 rows with C, then work 2 rows with B. Continue in this manner for entire square. Do not cut the yarn when switching colors, just drop it and pick up the next color.

Special stitch

sc3tog (single crochet 3 together):  [Insert hook in next stitch, yarn over, pull loop through stitch] 3 times (4 loops on hook). Yarn over and draw yarn through all 4 loops on hook.
 

Pattern

Foundation Ch: Ch 56:
Row 1: Sc in second ch from hook and in next 25 ch. Sc3tog over next 3 ch. Sc in last 26 ch. Ch 1, turn.
Row 2: Sc in first 25 sc. Sc3tog over next 3 sc. Sc in last 25 sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 3: Sc in first 24 sc. Sc3tog over next 3 sc. Sc in last 24 sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 4: Sc in first 23 sc. Sc3tog over next 3 sc. Sc in last 23 sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 5: Sc in each sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 6: Sc in first 22 sc. Sc3tog over next 3 sc. Sc in last 22 sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 7: Sc in first 21 sc. Sc3tog over next 3 sc. Sc in last 21 sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 8: Sc in first 20 sc. Sc3tog over next 3 sc. Sc in last 20 sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 9: Sc in first 19 sc. Sc3tog over next 3 sc. Sc in last 19 sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 10: Repeat row 5.
Row 11: Sc in first 18 sc. Sc3tog over next 3 sc. Sc in last 18 sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 12: Sc in first 17 sc. Sc3tog over next 3 sc. Sc in last 17 sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 13: Sc in first 16 sc. Sc3tog over next 3 sc. Sc in last 16 sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 14: Sc in first 15 sc. Sc3tog over next 3 sc. Sc in last 15 sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 15: Repeat row 5.
Row 16: Sc in first 14 sc. Sc3tog over next 3 sc. Sc in last 14 sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 17: Sc in first 13 sc. Sc3tog over next 3 sc. Sc in last 13 sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 18: Sc in first 12 sc. Sc3tog over next 3 sc. Sc in last 12 sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 19: Sc in first 11 sc. Sc3tog over next 3 sc. Sc in last 11 sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 20: Repeat row 5.
Row 21: Sc in first 10 sc. Sc3tog over next 3 sc. Sc in last 10 sc. Ch 1, turn.
Row 22: Sc in first 9 sc.  Sc3tog over next 3 sc.  Sc in last 9 sc.  Ch 1, turn.
Row 23: Sc in first 8 sc.  Sc3tog over next 3 sc.  Sc in last 8 sc.  Ch 1, turn.
Row 24: Sc in first 7 sc.  Sc3tog over next 3 sc.  Sc in last 7 sc.  Ch 1, turn.
Row 25: Repeat row 5.
Row 26: Sc in first 6 sc.  Sc3tog over next 3 sc.  Sc in last 6 sc.  Ch 1, turn.
Row 27: Sc in first 5 sc.  Sc3tog over next 3 sc.  Sc in last 5 sc.  Ch 1, turn.
Row 28: Sc in first 4 sc.  Sc3tog over next 3 sc.  Sc in last 4 sc.  Ch 1, turn.
Row 29: Sc in first 3 sc.  Sc3tog over next 3 sc.  Sc in last 3 sc.  Ch 1, turn.
Row 30: Repeat row 5.
Row 31: Sc in first 2 sc.  Sc3tog over next 3 sc.  Sc in last 2 sc.  Ch 1, turn.
Row 32: Sc in first 1 sc.  Sc3tog over next 3 sc.  Sc in last 1 sc.  Ch 1, turn.
Row 33: Sc3tog over last 3 sc. Fasten off and weave in ends.

taraduff's 2015 CAL sampler afghan square #18 Mitered Square close-up of stitch pattern

Well, I'm off to the hospital now with one of my children.  I'm praying that next month is less eventful for us, we could use some down time to enjoy life more.  Enjoy making your mitered square! (This is actually one of my very favorite blocks of the whole afghan!)