One of the most exciting and often frustrating parts of crocheting is trying a new pattern. Even when you know all the stitches, it can sometimes take several tries to get it to really look or fit right. It is important to check your gauge--even though it takes time away from actually making the project, it could save you hours of work if your gauge is off.
What does it mean to check your gauge? A gauge swatch will tell you if your stitches are the same size as the pattern creator's were. Hook size, yarn type, and your own personal stitch tension can affect your gauge. If your pattern says to use a certain size hook and type of yarn, it will often tell you how many inches a certain number of stitches will yield. So you stitch the number of stitches it suggests, then measure it with a measuring tape to see if your swatch is the same size as the pattern's. If not, you may need to loosen or tighten your stitches, or change to a different size hook or yarn. It may take some experimenting, but it's worth it if you want your project to fit when you're done! Once you're completed a pattern, you probably won't need to check your gauge the next time you use it.
Okay, so let's get to some free patterns! I'm in love with Creative Yarn. This beautiful crochet artist in Rome makes the most gorgeous stuff, and she offers lots of free patterns on her blog. If you don't crochet, you can also buy most of her finished products in her Etsy shop! These are a few of my favorites from her site. (Click on the picture to go straight to her pattern!)
I actually used her pattern for this giant flower and attached it to a thicker headband. I wanted something warm to cover my ears when I'm outside with the kids.
I also recently stitched up these adorable dog sweaters for my sister's chihuahuas. They're mini halter tops made from this free pattern (it's hard to find a good chihuahua sweater pattern for crochet!). Aren't they hilarious? They're on their way to you this week, Lind. You'll have to send me pics of the pups wearing them so I can post them!
There are also tons of great patterns for sale out there. You don't have to always buy a whole book for one pattern, either. Etsy features lots of cute crochet patterns for just about anything imaginable. My next project was this cool brimmed hat. I found the pattern in Little Projects' Etsy shop. Here are a couple more of her patterns that I totally want to try! Isn't she talented? (Click on pictures for links to these patterns in her shop.)
We are really lucky to live just minutes from the home offices of Martingale & Company Publishing, publishers of some of your favorite quilting and crafting books. If you're ever in the Seattle area, you've got to take the tour. They take you through their offices and show off many of the beautiful quilts featured in their books, and tell the stories behind them. But the best part is when the tour is over, you get to go down to their "seconds" shop and buy past books for only $5!
Stacy, our cute friend Erin, and Jessica in the book room.
Stacy and Jess showing off their loot!
Collectively we've probably been half a dozen times, mostly for the shopping, and this time when Jessica and Stacy went (I was the designated babysitter), they picked up a couple of extra books so we could host some sweet giveaways! Here's our first book giveaway, perfect for all our crocheting readers!
Amigurumi World, Seriously Cute Crochet, by Ana Paula Rimoli, is an awesome pattern book for the hot amigurumi trend. (Amigurumi is a Japanese word which, roughly translated, means "knitted stuffed toy.") People of all ages are crocheting and knitting these little creatures and collecting them. The book features about 27 crochet patterns for little "amis", many of them mommy and baby pairs, and a few faux food cuties as well.
So, if you want to win this book, leave a comment telling us the last crochet project you made, and you'll be entered to win it! Comments must be in by 11:59pm PST on Saturday, January 24. Good luck, amis!
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130 Responses to “more crochet and amigurumi book giveaway”
The last thing I crocheted was the second thing I have ever crocheted - a scarf for my little boy. Unfortunately it's summer here in Australia so he won't be wearing it for a bit!
I love the stuff by Creative Yarn! I got the Lacy Crochet Japanese-to-English crochet book for Christmas this year. My last completed crochet project was my *ahem* "Condom Doily". You'll have to vist my blog for a better understanding. I promise, it's G-rated.
The last crochet project I made was really a project... i made a bunch of samples of the different stitches. I was planning on making a pair of slippers, but I didnt get that far. I did learn how to crochet in rounds, and got good at it, but I had to get back to sewing.
That is so cool that they let you buy the older books! Then again, it is probably a good thing I live in CA, or I would be there all the time to pick up new books!
I just started learning more and diving into the art of crochet and just made a scarf and I would die for that book. My kids would love those little cute creations. And think about what an awesome mom I'd be if I could tell them I made them. Pick Me!
I am NEVER picked for give-aways so I'll admit I just bought this book and made the little octopus - it's darling. (ha ha ha)
I almost bought myself a similar book for Christmas, but i am yet to start on any amigurumi projects. The last thing i crocheted was many moons ago, and i think it was a dolls blanket for my oldest daughter.
Thank you for directing me to Creative Yarn! The last thing I crocheted was a hat with ear flaps.
I'm just learning to crochet and used the amigurumi octopus pattern on the lion brand website. My 2 year old loves those little guys!
I just picked up crochet now that I'm on my maternity leave... :) The last thing I crocheted was perhaps the very first crochet I completed: laces for my fave T-shirts!
the last thing i finished was a granny square blanket for my little girl when she was born. your website is a new discovery for me. as a result, my budget needs a crafting category. i'm working on the lapghan that you posted a few weeks ago. thanks for these great ideas!!!
The last thing was a scarf but it wasn't very good! I need this book!!
The last thing I crocheted was a little purple hat for baby girl #2 to be born in a week!
Since my sewing machine is out of commission, crochet is the only way to get the craftiness out of my bones. My last project was a beanie for my hubby. I got sick of him whining that I made stuff for everyone BUT him! hehehe
Here's a pic:
http://zeahrenaissance.blogspot.com/2009/01/single-solitary.html
The last thing I crocheted was a stack of blue/white scarves for the Special Olympics!
That reminds me! They need to be mailed today!
My most recent crochet project was a stuffed bunny for my niece, along with a baby blanket for her soon-to-be-born new baby brother or sister.
aleach6179 AT gmail DOT com
The last project I completed was a hat for me. When the temperatures went way down, I realized I didn't have a hat! So, now I do and I am working on a scarf to match.
I have just learned to crochet… so I haven't made anything real yet, but tones of practicing stitches…
Looks like I am not the only one teaching themselves to crochet! The last project I made was my first. I made a dishcloth while learning a single crochet. I even finished it last night. I would love a book about crochet.
The last thing I crocheted was an amigurumi skeleton for my daughter. She loved it. I prefer to knit but it sure is hard to pass up wanting to crochet all those cute little amigurumi!
A baby blanket for my youngest. That was 7 years ago!! My grandmother crocheted one with me. She taught me to crochet many, many years ago. She passed away in 2006. I miss her terribly and can't bring myself to make the granny stitches right now as I will end up wetting the yarn with my tears. I'd love to learn some other stitches so I can bear to crochet again.
I looooove making little "boggins" for babes! Those little animals are tooooo cute. I HAVE to learn how to make them!!!
The last thing I crochet was a rattle frog. One of the toys I sell in my Etsy shop.
I just started to crochet right after Christmas when I was bored. I crocheted a scarf and a hat this last weekend using the Homespun yarn and the large hook you mentioned in the post with the afghans. It was fabulous. thanks for the tip.
This book would definitely be well used! I think I am becoming a rabid crochet-er!
Here's a link to my last project, I even mentioned you guys! http://sherific.blogspot.com/2009/01/i-promise.html
My first and the last crochet project I took on was a lap blanket. I had decided I really wanted to make a blanket and my sister happened to just teach me to crochet so there it went. I ended up giving the blanket to my mom for Christmas as she was diagnosed with cancer just before then.
On a lighter note, if I'm lucky and snag this book, I can make her little animals to cheer her up!
The last things I crocheted was actually a blessing dress for my little girl when she was first born. I had never done any type of clothing before and had never read any pattern books, I am more of a visual learning, so I LOVED making it because it really taught me to read pattern books. And, I was proud of myself that she actually fit into it perfectly the day she was blessed!
Erin
iamfrugal.blogspot.com
The last things I crocheted were play food. This looks like a cute book with cute projects
Oooh! I'd love to get this book! I'd like to try something a little more difficult than what I have been making--scarves for everyone in my family. :)
The last thing I crocheted was a scarf for my FIL in his favorite baseball teams colors. Thanks for having this giveaway!
last project that I made: I crocheted the edges to a baby blanket. I have started a beanie though.
The last thing I crocheted was some cupcakes for a christmas gift (it was a pattern from Etsy). I would love to try these animals, though! So cute!
Last project I crocheted was a bromstick lace shawl - very pretty but takes for ever! This would be just the job for my kids - they love acting out stories with their stuffed toys.
A baby bootie. Unfortunately, it didn't turn out well.
I have never crocheted by would LOVE to learn!!!
I am currently trying to learn ... Which isnt an easy feat when your teacher is busy lots !!!!
Even Mr Ooo is learning !
So our last thing really is our first & its little squares hahah ! They will hopefully become a blanket for our bed :)
The last thing I crocheted was a poncho for my son, when he was a boy. I somehow forgot about crochet until recently. I found this blog which has inspired me to take it up again, and I am working on a scarf for myself. I would love to win this book, as my son is now grown up and I have grandsons! I would love to make crocheted toys for them.
Oooh, I just learned to crochet, and consequently the whole world looks full of potential and ideas. The only thing I have finished so far are hats. My last project was a pixie looking hat for my baby.
The last thing I crocheted was a red scarf for my mom's Christmas present and am now working on one for my hubby.
I love that book, though. Cute stuff and can't wait to try it (even if I don't win. :) ) I'm also excited to try those giant flower headbands. So cute and I know just who to make them for!
I do have a crochet question for you though. Can you scale down a patter or make it larger? I have a pattern for a darling pair of mary jane shoes for babies and want them just a bit smaller to fit a newborn. Thanks!
I was on bed rest :( with my first child and tried to crochet her an Afgahn :( didn't work so well but I'd love a new book! She just turned 1 in dec so that says how long ago that afgahn happened.
I crocheted a scarf a couple of years ago with the use of my sisters hooks. But for Christmas I just received my own set and am excited to start at it again and with all these cute projects, I can't wait!
My last project was the headband from Creative Yarn actually. I Loved it! I would really LOVE to win the book so I can make my two little boys fun little friends!
My last crochet project was an afghan for my niece. It was this cute little lacy pink, yellow, blue and white thing that screamed "baby girl!" So far I've been able to crochet blankets (twin size at least) for all my brothers and sisters, a couple of them for my best friend, for my husband's brothers and sisters, baby afghans for all my kids and for my nieces and nephew. It's always fun watching people snuggle up in or use something that you made for them. :-)
The last thing I crocheted was a baby blanket for my cousin's baby. It was the second thing I had ever made, and I am quite pleased with the outcome.
I made bud vase out of pink poly-twine (purchased from Lowes Home Improvement).
I made a warmish hat for one of my best friend's birthday last week and sent it to her as she lives far away. :( But those animals are adorable and I'd love to make them for my kids, niece, nephew, new babies, everybody!
Just last night I finished an amigurumi giraffe from the Lion Brand website. I must say, it is adorable - just like the images on this book are adorable - I'd love to make the lion next...
Thanks for the Martingale tip! I do live nearby, but didn't know about their tours and seconds shop. Good to know.
The last thing I crocheted was a turtle for a 1 year old's birthday. It was my first venture away from flat crochet - blankets and scarves - and it was such fun!
I did a few scarves as Christmas gifts. I need to sit down and work on an afghan I started...just so many projects!!
: )
The last crocheted project I made was a scarf for my daughter who is in the Air Force.
Ha! The last crochet project I made was back in high school in the 1970s. It was a scarf (turned out quite nicely, if I do say so myself). Thanks for the chance.
I have been bitten by the Crochet bug lately and have been making stuff like crazy. I just finished a patterned hat last night!
Oh how do I want this book. My last crochet project was a ripple baby afghan - I am now working on another baby blanket. Yes, I am hooked on crochet. a.ahun@sbcglobal.net
The last thing I made was a scalloped infant sweater set for dontion to local hospital. It is a varigated pink and purple sport yarn with cute litt buttons. Hugs
Dianne
I've actually only had my first crocheting lesson with my mom! I've knitted before but am now working on crochet. I have two little boys and would love to make them some of these cute things!
I just crocheted my infant son's blessing blanket - I LOVED the way it turned out!
I love the afghan Mandy made me for
Christmas this year! I would like to make one for a Bunko prize for my October Bunko night. Love your blog honey! Little Birdie's mom
The last things I crocheted were a few scarves and a stuffed Flamingo :)
I am currently crocheting a dragon scarf.
I have been tossing around the idea to learn. I would love to win. Then I know I would do it.
The last project I finished was a scarf for my boyfriend a couple weeks ago. The project I'm currently on (started last night) is a beanie/skully/cap (depending on your region :]) for my boyfriend.
He got pushed to the back of the list while I was crocheting up a storm for the holidays. I'm getting around to his presents now. He's been great about the delay!
After this, I'm actually going to make something for myself for once! I am thinking a wrap (I got a pretty boucle) and a necklace. Love the necklaces in the photos!
I'm actually finishing up my first crochet project since college--a scarf from The Happy Hooker. I used to crochet, then life got in the way, but I'm back to it and wondering why I ever stopped. This is the first time I've ever actually read a pattern, and it's looking like a success!
My last crochet project was an amigurumi monkey. My daughter loves it, but my other 3 want some also...so some new amigurumi patterns would be great!
The last item I crocheted was a huge "petit" Granny Squares bedspread/blanket for our Queen-sized bed. Comprised of 750 squares, it took me around a month to finish (with some breaks to make smaller items in between)
The last thing I crocheted was a snowman scarf for my grand daughter, am now working on an afghan for another grand daughter for her birthday in February.
Noreen
just seriously started! so have none yet except what I just started- I think its a scarf or an ugly spider web for next halloween
Oh my gosh! I can't wait to get the doggie sweaters! You are just too talented. Can I pay you to knit me a hat and head band? I don't think I have the patience. I will for sure send you pictures. Love you!
The last crochet project I made was a failed mailbox. It looked alright but it doesn't hold it's shape at all. But my heart was in the right place! I'm thinking I need to build one out of cardboard and place it inside...
The last thing I crocheted was the first thing I crocheted- a doily when I was about 9 years old and my Aunt taught me how. Looking at those gorgeous animals makes me want to reconnect with crochet!
The last crochet projects I made were 3 scarves for my 2 sisters in law and my mother in law. The scarves were not well received but they were fun to make. Unfortunately, not everyone is thrilled with handmade gifts - even if they are made with them in mind in their colors and look really cool! Now I know to be sure someone will appreciate it before I go to all that work. It just means my kids will get tons of stuff and others will wonder why I don't make them stuff anymore! LOL!!
The last project finished was a miniature Christmas stocking. Projects started & not finished - bedspread and scarf. Thanks for the great giveaway!
The last thing I crocheted was a granny square! HAHAHA no really- that was the last thing! I am still learning- rather slowly I might add, but with my new little guy needing to nurse all the time and needing major snuggles the rest of the time I expect to be learning slowly for some time to come, but once I have it all down a book like this would be great!
My last project was a crazy quilt, and I am itching to start something new.
madamerkf at aol dot com
Does starting a project and not finshing count? If so a scarf, which I should get out and finish so I can wear it in this cold weather.
I recently finished a pink & yellow cotton crocheted apron for my 4yo granddaughter. Would love to win the book! wrabbitt@verizon.net
I learned to crochet from my Mom when I was waiting for my first born to arrive. That was 10 years ago. I am currently working on two different afghans. The last thing I finished was a afghan in blues and aquas for my youngest.
I just finished a neck cozy--a short scarf that wraps around your neck and attaches with a button. I'd love to learn how to make those cute amis.
the last crocheted thing I made was a dishcloth made from Bernat Stripes(pinks!). it turned out very pretty too. Marlene m.mcdonald123@rogers.com
I used to crochet little baby things and blankets for my kids when they were babies in the early 80's. My youngest daughter, now 22 decided last fall she wanted to learn. Unfortunately she got bored quick. I think she wanted instant gratification. But she did say not to give up on her yet. I made several scarves, some hats, and some pot holders for Christmas gifts. I have renewed my love for it. I stitch every time I'm watching something on TV. Its so relaxing. I don't know why it took me so long to rekindle the love.
I crocheted a sweater! I did the gauge, but it turned out really really big! So then I took out the yarn (yes - for the whole thing) and redid it. It still turned out a little big, but I'm still completely proud of it!
I crocheted a little basket. I've been itching to make something again.
The last thing that I crocheted (and finished) was a pair of slippers for a blogging friend. I did that a couple of years ago.
The last thing I crocheted was a baby sweater, hat, booties, and baby bib for charity.
thank you for this generous opportunity.
Penny
I last crocheted an ear flap beanie a few days ago that was one of about 15 that I made to donate to the local homeless shelter. That book is so cute! I would love to win and make those for my girls. I'll cross my fingers!
The last crochet project I made is the hat I made for my dd this weekend. That's the most recent 'finished' project. :)
Those little critters from the book look adorable, thanks for the opportunity to win.
The last thing I crocheted was a ripple blanket. I decided to use wool only rather than acrylic. This was a great decision because it hasn't pilled and looks brand new BUT it was also a bad decision because it is unbelievably heavy. I got addicted to the pattern so I am doing another for a friend but it is too hot here at the moment to have wool on your lap (summer in Australia!) BTW, the book retails here for $35 !!!
Rene
Hi darling!
Thanks for talking so kindly about my designs and my blog!!
I LOVE to see people appreciating my creations..
The last crochet project I made was a pair of knitted wrist warmers, in dark grey and antique pink. Unfortunately I haven't done a picture of them yet, but I swear they are cute!;)
Ciao and many thanks again!
best wishes,
Marta (creativeyarn)
I've never crocheted before but I want to learn because I see all these CUTE toys and things for kids!
The last project I did was baby booties and flowers to make some barrettes or my daughter...
Let's see...yesterday I made about 6 cowl scarves..which will be in my etsy shop soon. I also am just about finished with a pair of fingerless gloves...pattern from Stitch N Bitch crochet. =) Thanks for the opp!
I've been crocheting a set of fingerless mittens and a scarflette for a friend. This is my third set this season.
-- Michele
I have made some Amigurumis, but the last thing I crocheted was a pair of potholders, I always need more of them!
The last (and only) thing I crocheted was a matching hat and scarf for a friend who gave me her crochet hooks and a book so I could try to learn. . .that was like 5 years ago and I haven't picked it up again! Mainly because we were living in a really warm climate and now we're back to the tundra so I want to start again.
The last project I finished was some dish cloths. I love them! This looks like an awesome book!
The last thing I made was a hat. But I decided I didn't like the way it fit on me :(
I made some arm warmers in pink for my friend's birthday. It included a green mitten cover for the fingers that buttoned on with cute pink buttons! She loved them!
I recently made a blue and white scarf for a co-worker as part of our office Secret Santa. I had not done anything in a while, and I am excited to get started on projects again!
The last thing I crochet was a ruffle on my daughters sock. Before that I hadn't crocheted in awhile I had to get a little refresher course from my mom who taught me to crochet when I was little.
Hmmmm, I'm not sure I can remember that long ago, but I think it was a border around a flannel baby blanket. I have to admit that I haven't had the desire to pick it up again until I started seeing the cute projects on your blog. Keep it up.
Lisa P. in Hawaii
The last thing I made was a cute little Meercat for my son. Yeah Summer in Australia has put me off crocheting for now. Can't wait for the cooler weather to start again.
I WANT to say that the last thing I crocheted was a baby blanket for my 4 month old son...except I haven't finished it yet! Other than that WIP, the last thing I finished was either a scarf for my hubbie or cute washclothes that I gave away as gifts.
lfinndesigns[at]gmail[dot]com
I've always wanted to try amigurumi! They'd make such unique baby gifts. The last things I crocheted were scarves for each of my 2 kids.
The last thing I crocheted was a stuffed hedgehog for my mom for Christmas. He's about football-sized, with round feet, brown eyes, and eyelash yarn crocheted in a ring on his back for the prickles! It's my own design, but I would love to learn more about amigurumi so that I can make more.
I made a crocheted octopus before Christmas, but it sure wasn't as cute as Ana's!
The last thing I crocheted is a baby blanket I'm currently working on for a newborn great-nephew. It's an aran-styled baby blanket, with lots of funky stitches. The last crochet project I completed was a tote bag (which I felted) and embellished with a pretty crocheted pansy.
The last thing I crocheted was a stuffed fawn out of a amigurumi book. I love Ana Paula's patterns and have a couple of them and have made them for my kids before! They LOVE homemade stuff.
Actually I just finished an amigurumi tonight! I made the Lion Brand lion pattern for my sister's birthday. She loves lions.
The last (and only) crochet project I made was a huge granny square quilt in blue. It turned out pretty good for my first try!
I did just rent 2 DVD's on how to learn to crochet from the library. (because my incredibly talented crochet-wise sister is too busy homeschooling her 7 kids to teach at this moment!)
I would like to get into it so I can sit on the couch with hubby and make projects!
I am entering for my sis not me. While her little girl was in the hospital she made the most amazing scarves for everyone in our family for Christmas. The kids love them, my hubby like his too. she made 16 total. she would love this book!
Decorative trim on a baby receiving blanket. Practical and pretty.
The last project I crocheted was Bonnie Bunny. She is a cute white bunny I made for my niece on her 4th birthday.
Oooo...I can still get this in! They are seriously cute crochet! I wonder if I have the ability but I'd love the book so I could try! Smiles!
The last thing I crocheted was a long chain when I was 11. I have been wanting something to inspire me and I enjoyed crocheting more than knitting. My daughter would love the octopus.
I just emailed my mom and we going to have to go on a tour. How fun! Thanks!
My first and only fully complete crochet project is the three strand flower necklace in this post. I was so proud of myself for making it! I'd love to learn how to make the little crocheted animals.
my last crochet project was of course, a scarf... that's pretty much the extent of my ability! Hope to learn more though!
I love this book and just haven't had the extra fundage to purchase it. Thanks so much for this giveaway! The last thing I crocheted was a pair of handwarmers from While They Play on etsy. My daughter loved them.
Thanks again!
Robin
cokelush at gmail
I am learning how to crochet! So the last thing I made was a wash cloth! I do want to get better! PIck me!
My last project was a darling skirt for my 3 year old daughter. And she does look darling in it! lol
Maria
What a cute book! I crocheted toys for my kids now I'd love to do it for the grandkids. My last project was an lacy edge on a baby quilt I wove. I weave the edge with open loops and then single crochet around and go around and around making all the prettiest stiches I can think of.
That is too cute! I totally want to make some of those cute things.
The last project I crocheted was a hat for my Mom for Christmas. It is a little brimmed hat. I can't wait to make one for myself.
Great give-away! I've had the crocheting fever since December when I made my two oldest daughters "Bohemian" scarves for Christmas. Now I'm working on an afghan.
I love your blog!!! You have such great ideas here. I'll be back to visit often.
The last craft project I did was a Christmas with my daughter's class. I organized the party and we made Reindeer poop bags, homemade Christmas cards and a paper ornament. It was fun!
I crocheted a liitle hat and mittens for my son and will be trying to whip out a scarf for my husband's birthday on Tuesday.
Oooo, I've been wanting to get that book! The last project I actually *finished*? lol Probably the scarf I made for one of my daughters for the holidays.
I've never crocheted, but my mom makes my daughter lots of cute hats: apple, pumpkin, striped with cherries on top and sweaters galore. She makes me stuff on request too and my daughter loves little babies so I'd love to get a copy of this to my mom!
The last crochet project I made was a sweater from a booklet from Red Heart yarn that I picked up from walmart.
Beautiful, creative stuff! Thank you for visiting me on my big, bloggy day on Thursday! :-)
The last project I made was a little blanket for a dollhouse!
Erin
billbuckly@yahoo.com
the last thing i crocheted was... well a sad looking hat for a newborn. needless to say, it didn't turn out so great. but im up for a challenge and would love to try these cute little guys for my little girl!! adorable.
I just took a class at my local yarn shop to learn how to crochet. We are making a wave scarf (for my son) which is a sampler of several different stitches. I would love, love, love this book to make some very cute animals for my 13 month old son! :)
The last thing I crocheted was a scarf!!! It was very snowy ( here in Oregon) an i was very warm with it!!!!!!
~Camille P
I <3 you.
the last thing i crocheted was a dish cloth when i took a knitting/crochet class many years ago! but a friend is teaching me again this year, plus a good excuse to get together! she makes these great hats so i want to learn again. love love your blog!! i am checking them out when i get over to my sisters this summer! no matter how far from mill creek!
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