Stitch of Love

Versatile Blogger Award

2012-02-11T07:43:00.002+07:00

Hello all my bloggy friends!

Rob at Men Crochet was so kind and nice to think of me and pass this Versatile Blogger Award on to my blog. Thank you very much, Rob! I cannot believe my blog is versatile! I'm very chuffed! :)

Now it's my turn to follow the rules:

1 Add the award to your blog

2 Thank the blogger who gave it to you

3 Mention 7 random things about yourself.

4 List the rules

5 Award to 15 bloggers

6 Inform each of those 15 by leaving a comment on there blog.

1 - 2 - 4: Done. Now I have to list 7 things about myself - I just wish I can skip this part! :)

I love coffee.
I started to try spicy foods a few years ago, and I just love it.
I don't smoke.
I love dark chocolate.
My favorite color is orange, green, cream and recently I feel I like blue.
My sweet honey just brought to my home 2 chickens, they are very cute in the garden!
I met my honey 8 years ago and we don't celebrate Valentine's Day. I love gifts, love flowers, love chocolate,..., but don't need to have them on Feb 14.

This part is also not easy, I have to choose 15 blogs to pass this award on to. Here goes, in alphabetical order:

Annielizabeth at annielizabeth's heart to heart
Anne at Ungardened Moment
Annemiek at mieksthreads
Aurora at Aurora Blythe
Celeste at les mailles de celeste
DaPerfectMix at Mixing it up with DaPerfectMix
Donna at GG's Creative Corner
Esther at Happy In Red
Heather at The Good Life
Mercedes at el olor de cadiz
Meredith at Mereknits
Tammy at T's Daily Treasures
Teresa at Teresa Kasner
Sandy at Sandy's Space
Saskia at Crafty Valley

I hope you like the award, but you don't have to participate - a smile would be good enough!

Great weekend to all! see you sooooonnnn.........

Learn more about "45 Lessons..."

2012-02-08T10:55:00.004+07:00

Hello everyone!

Thank you very much for your comments on my last post and I'm so happy you like the "45 Lessons Life Taught Me".

After reading one of the comments on my blog that Regina is an Urban Legend, my dear friend Donna had spent time to find more about her from her official site and found that Regina herself is the author of "45 Lessons Life Taught Me" not anyone else. She wrote this when she was 45, and added 5 more to her list when she was 50, you can refer those on her site above, "50 Life Lessons". She is not an Urban Legend.

Both Donna and I agreed that we should post this to our blogs, as Regina is really an incredible woman and her life lessons are really wonderful and honorable.

Thank you for your time. Wishing everyone a gorgeous day!

All the best,
Lovestitch

45 Lessons Life Taught Me

2012-02-04T09:12:00.010+07:00

After reading this from my friend's blog, Donna at GG's Creative Corner, I know I will print it out to read and remember it by each day. My craft blog today has a non-craft post as I would love to reprint it here to share you all. Hope you like this as much as I do. Thank you Donna for sharing these precious words...

Written by Regina Brett, 90 years old, of the Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio.

"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most requested column I've ever written.

My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short – enjoy it.

4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and family will.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Stay true to yourself.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye But don't worry; God never blinks.

16.. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful. Clutter weighs you down in many ways.

18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

19. It's never too late to be happy. But it’s all up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive but don’t forget.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood.

38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all throw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

41. Envy is a waste of time. Accept what you already have not what you need.

42. The best is yet to come...

43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

44. Yield.

45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."

Knitting Lace Scarf

2012-01-30T07:31:00.007+07:00

Hello, hello everyone!

Finally I can find some time to blog and have something to share with you after a long break... I just finished a scarf during my Holiday of Dragon New Year. This is the first time I tried lace knitting, but this scarf turned out so beautiful in lavender and so soft! I just love, love, love it!!! I'm sure the photos did not treat it well!

I selected a pattern in my knitting book to make the scarf, called a "Cell Stitch". It's a simple combination between YO and K2TOG, but with this special type of yarn, it came out much over my expectation!

My friend Donna sent this yarn to me a while ago, she loves lavender color and generously shared it with me. It ruffles itself, and is very soft, especially it creates an amazing stretch for the scarf!!! I believe it made the scarf more special beside the stitches! Thank you, thank you so much my friend for giving me a great opportunity to experience this wonderful yarn, and in turn, this one will be another gift to be sent back to California! I'm more than happy with that!

I made a crochet chain for the edgings instead of adding fringe or tassel, as this kind of yarn unravels easily when cut in to a short piece, and the second reason is just to save yarn for the scarf body! :)

This scarf is really glamorous to me, so I hope she will love it and enjoy it as much as I do!

Thank you ever so much for taking the time to visit my blog and your comments are always most appreciated! Wishing you all a wonderful New Year!!!

Best wishes, ♥

Ruffle Scarf for the New Year!

2012-01-03T20:33:00.012+07:00

I made several scarfs before, in both crochet and knitting, but until the weather has changed recently, when it's getting cold here I just realized I don't have any scarf for myself! I really wanted to have one. I found this pattern when surfing for a scarf and it was always in my mind until I could start it!

This scarf was made with 2 skeins of Lion Suede, the yarn my dear friend Donna (visit her at her wonderful blog here) sent to me in our last "Dove". I actually thought about making something with this yarn all the time so I was very happy with this project! The pattern calls for 3 skeins so I had to adjust a bit in the last row, worked only 1 dc in each stitch along and finally it was also sufficient, till the last scrap! Thank you so much, my friend for sending me such beautiful yarn! You know how much warm I feel! It's great on me and I just love it!

I'm also making on another project with another yarn she sent me, and must say I'm really excited with it, but I will reveal it once I'm done!! :)

Thank you for stopping by, hope everyone had wonderful Holidays and wishing all the best for your New Year!!!

♥ See you all,

~ Hello New Year!!!

2012-01-01T11:13:00.004+07:00

Hi everyone!

Thank you very much, my friends, for always visiting my blog and uplifting me with your words of encouragment over the past year, that meant a lot to me and I do appreciate!

I would like to wish you and your loved ones a very Happy New Year! May your new year be filled with love, joy, happiness and so many crafting creations!

Blessings and Lots of love,

Lovestitch, ♥

Rose Brooch Pattern

2012-01-01T09:22:00.002+07:00

When I made this rose brooch and attached it into a hat in my earlier post, some firends have asked me for the pattern. I found this pattern in chart form somewhere on internet and could not remember the source, so I reprinted it in written term here just in case you need.

Rose pattern:

Chain 75.

Row 1: Ch 1, 2 sc in the same ch, 2 sc in the next ch, 1 hdc and 1 dc in the next ch, 2 dc in each of the next 4 chs, *1 dc in the next ch, 2 dc in the next ch. Repeat from * until the last 3 chs, 1 dc in the next ch, 2 hdc in the next ch, 1 sc in the last ch. Turn.

Row 2: Ch 1, sc in the same st, 1 hdc in the next st, 2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in the next st, 2 dc in each of the next 3 sts, 1 dc in the next st, 2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in the next st, 2 hdc in the next st, sc in the next st. *2 hdc in the next st, dc in the next st, 2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in the next st, 2 dc in each of the next 4 sts, 1 dc in the next st, 2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in the next st, 2 hdc in the next st, 1 sc in the next st. Repeat from * 2 more times. 2 hdc in the next st, dc in the next st, 2 dc in each of the next 4 sts, 1 dc in the next st, 2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in the next st, 2 hdc in the next st, sc in the next st. **2 hdc in the next st, dc in the next st, 2 dc in each of the next 4 sts, 1 dc in the next st, 2 hdc in the next st, sc in the next st. Repeat from ** 3 times. 2 hdc in the next st, 2 dc in each of the next 4 sts, 2 hdc in the next st, sc in the next st. 1 hdc in the next st, 2 hdc in the next st, 2 dc in each of the next 3 sts, 2 hdc in the next st, 1 hdc in the next st, 1 sc in the next st, slip stitch to the last st.

Weave yarn and shape into a rose and secure in to place.

I sewed a brooch pin in the back of the rose and attach it into a hat, I love the way it matches the hat! Or you can sew it into your hat directly, it will come out lovely I beleive!

Take care and all the best! xxx

~ Puppy and Christmas ~

2011-12-18T07:12:00.008+07:00

Hello! How is everyone doing? I hope all is well and your weekend have been gorgeous!

While I have been inspired with so many crafting projects from so many talented bloggy friends, I would really wanted to make something for Christmas this year and I almost gave up the idea until I found a pattern in last minutes! I was so happy that I can't wait to start it right away! Look how it turned out!

I spent my whole Saturday with this little doggy and his Christmas Hat, Christmas scarf... Isn't he cute?!! :)

I found the pattern in a Japanese crochet book and I love this! Have a look at him from the back...

And see what he is thinking... Perhaps he needs some snow but that never happens here!!! Poor puppy!

Christmas is coming so close, you all must be so busy with home decoration or so... Enjoy your time and Happy Holidays!!!

Best wishes, ♥

PATTERN: Crochet Hat for My Mom

2011-11-27T22:51:00.007+07:00

Hello friends!

Thank you so much for all your comments on my last post, I'm so warm in my heart with your kind thoughts and uplifting words. They are so precious to me, just let you know how much I appreciate!

I have received some messages from some of you recently asking for the pattern of the hat I made for my mom a while ago. When I made it before I just moved the stitches and didn't notice to write the pattern down (lazy me!), that's why I couldn't remember the pattern to share. But I've been so happy you like it! So now I just wrote the pattern and made another one to test, with different yarn and hook. Hope you like it and give it try!

I made this hat with the same cotton yarn of the rose brooch I made a few months back. This way I don't have to make a flower to attach! But it looks nice, isn't it? :)

With the brim turned up... This pattern is quite simple and easy to make, but it turned out just lovely!

Well, enough for my showing, it's time for the pattern!

HAT PATTERN:
Yarn: Cotton yarn (Sugar 'n Cream also works well with this pattern).
Hook size: F - 3.75mm

Magic circle.

Flat circle for the top:

Round 1: Ch 1, 7 sc through the loop. Do not join, place marker and work a continual round.
Round 2: 2 sc in each sc around (14 sc)
Round 3: *1 sc in the next stitch, 2 sc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. (21 sc)
Round 4: *1 sc in each of the next 2 stitches, 2 sc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. (28 sc)
Round 5: *1 sc in each of the next 3 stitches, 2 sc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. (35 sc)
Round 6: *1 sc in each of the next 4 stitches, 2 sc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. (42 sc)
Round 7: *1 sc in each of the next 5 stitches, 2 sc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. (49 sc)
Round 8: *1 sc in each of the next 6 stitches, 2 sc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. (56 sc)
Round 9: *1 sc in each of the next 7 stitches, 2 sc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. (63 sc)
Round 10: *1 sc in each of the next 8 stitches, 2 sc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. (70 sc)
Round 11: *1 sc in each of the next 9 stitches, 2 sc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. (77 sc)
Round 12: sc in each sc around. (77 sc)
Round 13: *1 sc in each of the next 10 stitches, 2 sc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. (84 sc)
Round 14: sc in each sc around. (84 sc). Slip stitch to the next 2 stitches.

You can adjust this flat top to fit your head by adding more or subtracting the last row (84 sts).

Hat body:

Round 1: Ch 3, 2 dc in the same stitch, skip 2 stitches, *3 dc in the next stitch, skip 2 stitches. Repeat from * till the last shell, join with the beginning chain. (28 shells - 84 sts)
Round 2: Ch 3, 2 dc in the same space, *3 dc in the next space. Repeat from * to the last space, join with the beginning chain. (28 shells - 84 sts)
From round 3: Repeat round 16 until you get the desired length.

Hat brim:

Round 1: Ch 1, sc in the same stitch, sc in the next 5 stitches, 2 sc in the next stitch. *sc in the 6 next stitches, 2 sc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. Do not join. (96 sc)
Round 2: sc in each sc around. (96 sc)
Round 3: *sc in the 7 next stitches, 2 sc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. (108 sc)
Round 4: sc in each sc around. (108 sc)
Round 5: *sc in the 8 next stitches, 2 sc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. (120 sc)
Round 6: sc in each sc around. (120 sc)
Round 7: sc in each sc around. (120 sc)
Round 8: *sc in the 9 next stitches, 2 sc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. (132 sc)
Round 9: sc in each sc around. (132 sc)
Round 10: sc in each sc around. (132 sc)
Round 11: sc in each sc around. (132 sc)

Slip stitch (or reverse sc all around) the last round.

There you have the hat pattern, appreciate if you point out any mistake I might have. Thank you!

Hope everyone had a great weekend and wishing your new week ahead is gorgeous!!!

~ Much love, ♥

Missing Crochet and Blogging

2011-11-13T20:34:00.082+07:00

Hi everyone! How are you? It's been a long time since my last post, I hope everyone is so well and did enjoy a gorgeous weekend!

I have been so busy for work and family recently and hardly find time for other things. It's been more than one month I didn't blog, but you - my bloggy friends - are still there, continue visiting, following my blog and leaving sweet words on my posts during my "absence", that really warms my heart... Thank you! I'm sorry for not either visiting back or leaving comments on yours as often as I wish, but I surely will, I will try to get back to my favorites as soon as I can!

I've been missing crochet so much. I tried some moments I had in the busy days to make these small flowers...

I also don't know what they will be for, just to crochet, just to pick my hook and touch my yarn again. That feeling is always so special to me...

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my rambling today. Take care, and wish you all a wonderful new week!

Love and hugs ♥

Crohet Polka Dot Bag

2011-10-10T14:01:00.003+07:00

Hello friends! How you are doing? I do hope you all had a wonderful day, and had so many inspiring creations over the weekend!

It's been quite a long time since my last crafting project, crochet, knitting, sewing,... have been in my mind during these busy days... But finally I have something to share to you all and must say I am so happy... What do you think about my newest crochet project? :)

I actually started this bag a few months ago, but so many things happened then that I had to put it aside. Now look how the bag came out now and a few sneak peak of the lining...

I'm so pleased with the lining fabric and also the zipper, their colors are quite match, right? Hmm, sewing zippers is now no more changeling to me, after so many times I had to sew and unsew again them in my other projects, hehe!

In case you wonder what pattern this bag came from, you got it right here, I used it for the whole bag.

It's hard to explain, but I'm always excited every time I get a crafting project done, whether it is a big project or just a little one!

Enough for my new bag, I wish everyone a fabulous new week ahead!
~ xxxxxx ~

Second Giveaway Win!

2011-10-04T05:40:00.001+07:00

Hello everyone,

I could not believe my eyes that I was noticed I won another giveaway just right after the first one! One on Saturday and one on Sunday! How happy and lucky I was to win two giveaways at nearly the same time! I had never won any giveaway before and then I won two! Don't you see it strange? But it's amazing!

This necklace arrived at my doorstep in the midst of last week, from our very lovely lady Teresa and I was thrilled! Thank you Teresa for such a gorgeous giveaway, I love it! It's so beautiful!!

Visit her shop here to enjoy a lot of handmade jewelry items in all kinds of bead, you will be amazed, for sure!

Thank you again, Teresa!

♥ Take care, and hope everyone a happy day!
Lovestitch, x

First Giveaway Win!

2011-09-26T06:38:00.013+07:00

I received this lovely giveaway from our very lovely friend Aurora Blythe in the midst of August but was too busy with my family troubles to post about it. This is the first time I won a giveaway and I'm really happy!

Opened the box I was amazed with this beautiful fuzzy case! I love it so! Thank you, Aurora! x

Oh it's a lovely case with so many lovely stuff inside! A sneak peek first:

See what I took out, aren't they wonderful?!! So many gorgeous things were packed for the giveaway that I was really lucky to be the winner!

I love them all! Thank you very much, Aurora!

♥ Wishing everyone a fabulous new week ahead!

Till next time,
LS, xxxxxxxxxx

~ Thank You! ~

2011-09-21T06:41:00.018+07:00

Hello Friends!

Thank you very much for your kind thoughts and treasured prayers on my father's illness and my family. They are such heartwarming words and mean a lot to me...

I'm sorry I have not been saying anything to you all, honestly it has been so hard for me to find time and spirit for blogging during the time... But I'm so happy as now my father is getting better and on the road of recovery. On behalf of my family, I would like to express my big THANK YOU to all of you, my very kind friends!

Thank you my dear sweet friend, Donna, for so much care and thoughtfulness, for always sharing and uplifting me in such a hard time, and, for the generosity in offering the wonderful quick post with such beautiful words... Thank you, my dear friend!

I'm very happy finally I can get back to blogging, to my little crafts corner, not much time though, but I can be back, that's great enough to me! Once again, thank you!!!

♥ Hope you all enjoy a wonderful week!

See you soon!
Lovestitch, xo

Quick Post from a Dear Friend

2011-09-18T10:43:00.002+07:00

Dear Blog Friends,

It has been quite some time since our wonderful and dear friend, LOVESTITCH, has had time for blogging.

She is just fine, so I hope to relieve your mind of worry. Her precious, loving father suffered a massive stroke in mid August, and a second one while in the hospital a few days later. He has come home now and is progressing well, but still needs much care.

Please join me in praying and sending positive thoughts for her dear father for a complete healing, for her mother for strength, for our dear friend and her beau, as they work all day and care for her parents each night and weekends.

She is strong and loving, and will be back to her crocheting, knitting and sewing very soon. I know she will delight us with her new projects soon!

Thank you all so very much!
May you all be blessed and loved,
Donna
(grandma4five)

Patterns: Crochet Flower Brooches

2011-08-05T14:53:00.003+07:00

Hello everyone!

Thank you very much for making my day with all your sweet words on my flower brooches and my posts so far! That really meant a lot to me, I do appreciate!

I made these flowers using some patterns from Japanese books and they are all in chart form. I've just "translated" them into US term for your convenience (as I guess most of you may prefer written patterns, hoping I'm right!). So, here you go - please let me know if there's any mistake:

1. Cream daisy flower:

(Make two alike in different colors)

Magic circle.
Round 1: 5 sc in the loop. Do not join.
Round 2: 2 sc in each stitch around (10 sc)
Round 3: 1 sc in the next stitch, 2 sc in the next stitch (15 sc in total)
Round 4: * Slip stitch to the next sc, ch 2, 4 dc in the next stitch, ch 2, slip stitch to the next stitch to complete the first low petal. Repeat from * for the remainder (5 petals in total).
Round 5: * Slip stitch to the 1st chain of the first ch-2, sc in the next chain, work 1 hdc in the first dc, 1 dc in the same stitch, dc increase in each of the next 2 stitches, 1 dc in the 4th dc, 1 hdc in the same stitch, sc in the next ch-2 space, sl st in to the previous sl st. Repeat from * for the remainder.
Round 6: * Sc in the next sl st, ch 2, 3 dc increase in the next 3 stitches, 1 dc in the next st, 1 hdc in the same stitch, 1 hdc in the next stitch, 1 dc in the same st, 3 dc increase in the next 3 stitches, ch 2, sc in the previous sl st. Repeat from * for total of 5 petals.
Cut the tail, fasten off and weave in ends.

Use a contrast colored thread to sew 2 layers together with petals are alternate to each other. Sew the center as it looks like in the picture.

Crochet a tiny flower to sew it in the center (magic circle, * ch 5, sl st into the loop. Repeat 4 times from * to finish) or just simply sew a button in center to complete the pistil.

2. Other daisy flower in Orange:

Magic circle,
Round 1: Ch 3 (count as the first dc), 15 dc in the loop, join with sl st to the first ch 3. (16 dc)
Round 2: Work in back loop only: 2 dc in each dc around (32 dc)
Round 3: Ch 1, sc in the same stitch, ch 5, sc in the next stitch, *sc in the next stitch, ch 5, sc in the next stitch (16 ch-5 spaces in total).
Round 4: * Slip st to the ch-5 loop, ch 2, work 9 dc in the ch-5 loop, ch 2, sl st into the loop. Repeat from * for the remaining loops. (16 petals in total)
Cut the yarn and fasten off.
Round 5: Join new thread to the front loop created at round 2, repeat the instruction for round 3.
Round 6: repeat round 4.
Fasten off.

Make a tiny flower (magic circle, * ch 9, sl st into the loop. Repeat 9 times from * to finish) to sew in center. Add button in center to make the pistil look a bit different.

3. Colorful flower with many layers of petal:

Magic circle,

Round 1: Ch 1, 16 sc in the loop. Join with a slip stitch to the first sc.
Round 2: Ch 1, sc in the same stitch, ch 3, skip one sc, * sc in the next stitch, ch 3, skip 1 sc.
Repeat from * for the remainder. Join with a sl st to the first sc (8 ch-3 loops in total).
Round 3: ch 1, * 1 sc, 1 hdc, 1 dc, ch 2, 1 dc, 1 hdc, 1 sc into the loop. Repeat 7 times total from * (8 petals total)
Round 4: ch 1, * front post single crochet around the first sc in round 2, ch 4. Repeat 7 times total from *. Join with sl st to the first FPSC (8 ch-4 loops in total)
Round 5: ch 1, * 1 sc, 1 hdc, 2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc, 1 hdc, 1 sc into the loop. Repeat 7 times total from *.
Round 6: ch 1, * front post single crochet around the previous FPSC in round 4, ch 5. Repeat 7 times total from *. Join with sl st to the first FPSC (8 ch-5 loops in total)
Round 7: ch 1, * 1 sc, 1 hdc, 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc, 1 hdc, 1 sc into the loop. Repeat 7 times total from *.
Round 8: ch 1, * front post single crochet around the previous FPSC in round 6, ch 6. Repeat 7 times total from *. Join with sl st to the first FPSC (8 ch-6 loops in total)
Round 9: ch 1, * 1 sc, 1 hdc, 3 dc, 1 tr, ch 2, 1 tr, 3 dc, 1 hdc, 1 sc into the loop. Repeat 7 times total from *.
Round 10: ch 1, * front post single crochet around the previous FPSC in round 6, ch 6. Repeat 7 times total from *. Join with sl st to the first FPSC (8 ch-6 loops in total)
Round 11: ch 1, * 1 sc, 1 hdc, 4 dc, 1 tr, ch 2, 1 tr, 4 dc, 1 hdc, 1 sc into the loop. Repeat 7 times total from *.

Complete this pattern you will have 5 layers of petal, change color for each if desired.

*** To turn them into a brooch or a hair scunchi:
Cut a circle of felt fabric or crochet a circle with sc for 7 rounds and sew in place in the back of the flower.
Here is a pattern for a circle just in case:

Magic circle,
Round 1: Ch 1, 8 sc in the loop. Do not join.
Round 2: 2 sc in each sc around (16 sc). Mark the first sc with a contrasting color maker.
Round 3: 1 sc in the next stitch, 2 sc in the next stitch (24 sc)
Round 4: sc increase in every 3 stitches (30 sc)
Round 5: sc increase in every 4 stitches (36 sc)
Round 6: sc increase in every 5 stitches (42 sc)
Round 7: sc increase in every 6 stitches (48 sc)
Round 8: sc increase in every 7 stitches (54 sc)
Skip 1 stitch, slip stitch to the next stitch to join.

Attach a brooch pin if you want to have a brooch, or a pony tail if you want to have a hair brunchi.

♥ Enjoy, and Happy hooking!!!

Thank you for stopping by, hope you all a very Happy Weekend!!! ♥

Crochet Flower Brooches

2011-08-02T18:47:00.002+07:00

How is everyone doing? I cannot believe it's been the beginning of August already! It feels like just yesterday July was starting. Time sure does fly by! I do hope you got many things done in the last month, as I didn't! My to-do list in July is still in progress, and August has come! How about you?

I made these flower brooches a few days back and would love to share you right here. I found it was such a fun when playing with cotton!

A colorful flower with many layers of petal...

take a closely look...

A rose in blossom...

A daisy with two layers of petal...

And this lovely one I don't know what to call, maybe another kind of daisy... :)

All of them were attached a brooch pin, to become these flower brooches...

Didn't they turn out lovely? I love them all, especially the creamy one with an orange button center, my favorite colors as well...

I've still not worn any of them, but my clothes are ready to go with these 'new friends'!

Well, enough for my brooches, I would come to see what you've been up to, but I know they must be awesome, whatever you do!

Best wishes to you all, hope your days are always gorgeous!

♥ Thank you for stopping by! See you later!!!

Pattern: Puffy Cell Phone Cozy

2011-07-28T23:14:00.013+07:00

Hi everyone!

I made this cell phone cozy for a friend awhile back and was asked for the pattern. OK, I can't let you wait any longer so am glad to share you here:

PATTERN

Yarn: cotton or any yarn.

Hook: any size to match your yarn. I used 3.5mm hook and cotton yarn for mine to fit a cell phone with 4.5" H x 2.31" W x 0.37" D.

This pattern has a multiple of 2, so you can easily adjust the bottom narrower or wider in an even number of stitches.

Puff stitch: Please refer this site for the method of finishing a puff stitch - using method A for this pattern.

Bottom:

Make 14 foundation single crochet (or chain 14 if you prefer to use a chain instead).

Ch 1, sc in the same stitch, sc in each of the next 12 sts, 4 sc in the next st, sc in each of the next 12 sts, 3 sc in the last stitch, join with sl st to the first ch. (32 sc in total)

Body:

Round 1: ch 2, *make a puff stitch in the same st, dc in the next stitch. Repeat from * for the remaining stitches, slip stitch to the first puff stitch to join. (16 combos of puff stitch and dc in total).
Round 2: ch 1, sc in the same st, sc in the next st, *front post sc around the next puff stitch, sc in the next dc. Repeat from * to the last st. Sl st to the first sc to join.

Repeat round 1 and 2 until you get the desired length of your cell phone.
Make one or two rounds of sc on top, attach a button if you like and your cozy is ready!

Here is the new one I made with this pattern, isn't it lovely? :)

Enjoy! Lovely day to you all! ♥

Happy Returns and Sunshine Award!

2011-07-27T21:37:00.009+07:00

Hello, hello everyone!

I've got back after a short vacation, so now I'm so happy to be here and say Hello again! Hope you all had a wonderful weekend! For me, I know I had! ;)

I would like to express my THANK YOU for all your kind words on my last post. They really touched my heart. My dear friend Donna told me your comments warmed her heart so much. How precious bloggy friendship is! I'm sure she would not mind when I reprint this from her message to me: "And the comments left on your blog warmed my heart so much! They were so kind in their comments about our friendship and about my FRIEND album, so very, very nice!". So, we thank you!

When I returned, I received many lovely things which made me so happy! My Mom prepared food for me to enjoy together, my dear friend's message arrived to welcome me back! I also received this Sunshine Award from lovely Aisyah at My Tinker Space, thank you Aisyah!

Well, to follow the rule I have to tell something about myself:

I love sunshine! :)
I love coffee and... dogs! :)
I learned to swim last year and now I forget how to swim!
My childhood memories are always in my mind...
My hair is dark brown naturally and I don't want to dye it any color.

I'm done! In turn I have to pass this award on to other blogs, oh I'm so scared of this part! All your blogs are awesome, and all deserve the award, but I have to pick some friends so I would like to pass it on to:

My dear friend, Donna, who is very special to me and is a part of my life...
Josie, who always makes me happy with her words of encouragements...
Susie, lovely lady who is always with me from the beginning of my blogging...
Tammy, she seems never misses any post of mine to leave her kind words on!
Penelope, a nice friend who gives me so many inspirations...
Annemiek, talented lady who loves dogs as much as I do...
DaPerfectMix, lovely friends who is also with me from the beginning...
Carol, a kind lady who always spreads her love to everyone...
Sonia, who leaves her sweet comments of motivation on my crafting work so far...
Caz, "never knew" how her nice words meant...

I would be happy if you feel free to take this award and pass it on to other blogging friends, but please don't mind if you don't want to!

Great day to you all!

Take care and till next time! x

Wonderful Gift from a Special Friend

2011-07-18T07:00:00.486+07:00

My dearest friend Donna (visit her blog here) told me she was making something for me, something small but special! How I thank God for the amazing friendship we have, she is very special to me, always caring and so thoughtful! She always cares about me and my family, my work, my love, my life, my hobbies, ... and we share everything together! She always brings joy to my life with a sweet friendship and thoughtfulness. We have so many things in common, same hobbies, same month of birthday, and our sweethearts are both great! :)

One day she notified me "something special" was on the way, so excited! We waited and prayed, again and again, for our "Dove" arriving safely and soundly, over the mountains and the Pacific Ocean! We were very excited, really excited while waiting! When my Mom called at Monday noon to tell our "Dove" had just arrived my home, oh God, my heart jumped up and down, I wrote her right away to tell the "hot news", and she was also so excited as much as I was!!!

I came home from work and rushed into my room. I guessed something would be in the box before, but when I opened it, I just cried...! There was so many beautiful stuff she made especially for me, I took every item out with tears in my eyes, I could feel the LOVE she put in each of them, I was really really touched...

The FRIEND album she sent me is her first Word album, but it came out fabulous! I love it ever so much, and obviously, I was special!

I cried again when I opened each page...

The "R", with a beautiful crochet butterfly, everything little in it carried a Love message from her heart to mine...

The "I", with many beautiful ideas and creations in, only came from LOVE...

The "E", oh how I love these pretty flowers, with some lovely tags included for me to fill in with anything I would like...

The "N", so vintage, so beautiful and I believe the folded round in green paper at the center with a pretty flower on is an "O" from the word "lOve"...

And the "D", look like you are opening the doors when you take the button and open it out. It's the room filled with LOVE, just open it to feel overwhelmed! But I will not worry if it's closed, as her love is all around here!

She asked me to be honest with her first word album, oh which word I can say better than WONDERFUL! "Yes, Donna, only a very talented woman can make such a wonderful album like this herself! And you made it with love, so it's much more amazing! Believe me!"

She also made me feel I'm special with this: "The crochet heart is from mine to yours! Just give it a couple of squishes and the aroma of Lavender will fill the room!". Soooo sweet!!!

"And I'm going to try to squeeze in some yarn for you to play with!"...

Such a beautiful yarn, so soft and lovely! The other yarn below is very beautiful, she was so careful to press it in a plastic bag with a Food Saver machine, so it can fit the box easier!

I kept my patience not to cut it out until I can take a picture, and oh my, look these beautiful yarn when I took it out of the bag! How I just love love love them!!!

And here are two jars of jam she made, one Strawberry and one Mango. I and my family have just enjoyed it and must say it's so yummy! We all love it! The most delicious jam I've ever tried!

Many beautiful flower seeds for my Mom...

And a very lovely card with her hand-writing letters on... Each word in it touched my heart, so much...

I love all of them, each of them, it meant a lot to me. I told her, it's not only a gift, it's a GREAT gift from a heart to a heart! What I could expect more?!!

I appreciate this more than I can say. Thank you my dear friend for making me such a wonderful and unique gift! A huge hug and thank you both - Donna and Don - for your love and thoughtfulness to a friend from so far away...

Thank you everyone for your visit and taking the time to read my post today. I would love to share you all my feeling and my happiness that the friendship has been bringing to me. Thank you for your lovely comments of encouragement so far...

Best wishes to everyone and enjoy your gorgeous new week ahead! Enjoy the friendship you have and Happy Blogging!!!

Until next time, x

Lovely Cell Phone Cozies

2011-07-05T16:11:00.006+07:00

Hello friends!

How are you doing? I hope you all had a great weekend. Thanks you very much for your nice words on my last posts also. It's a while I haven't been here and I miss blogging so! That's great to have something to blog again! :)

A friend of mine told me she loved a cozy for her new cell phone, so I made these small stuff to surprise her on her birthday. I took these pictures a week ago but so busy to post.

I made this one using star stitch pattern from Teresa (video tutorial here). I love the stitch and the pattern so much, I used to make one when I had just learned to crochet, by following instructions from her, it turned out not too bad, hehe! But I can feel the difference with this one!

And this one is my own pattern, with a combination between puff stitch and double crochet, the next round were front post single crochet and repeated, it came out ever so lovely!

Both of them were given to my friend as a birthday gift, she texted me "I love them so much did you know!", I was happy too!

They covered and fitted the cell phone perfectly!

and lovely!

I will make some more for myself and friends, cozies are always really fun to make!

Thank you for stopping by, I wish your new week is wonderful and cheerful!!!

Until next time! x

Another Ridge Hat With Brim

2011-06-26T11:46:00.017+07:00

Happy Sunday everyone!

I finished this hat last week but was so busy to take photos and post, well, how time flies, it's weekend again and I'm happy to have something to share with you all!

It was made with the same pattern as the one I made before for my Mom (pattern can be found here ). I wanted to try it with another type of yarn and hook size, so I used Lion Brand Cotton Ease, Seaspray color and size G-6 4.25mm, bigger than the one I used in my original pattern. I adjusted stitches and shells a bit as I used a larger hook: 6 rounds for top and 8 shells for hat body. The brim was done exactly what the pattern says. It turned out as lovely as I expected!

Such a nice idea to make a sun hat for this summer, I love this hat, the color is so lovely! It also has a softy touch and so comfy to wear under the sun!

Have a happy Sunday everyone, I wish your summer is gorgeous and enjoyable!

~ Thank you for stopping by and see you soon ! ♥

Knitting WIP - My Stripped Scarf Is Done!

2011-06-13T22:48:00.008+07:00

Hello! Hello Friends,

Thank you very much for all your comments in my last post, that's so SWEET and means a lot to me! I would love to THANK YOU, thank you for the amazing bloggy friendship!

Remember my first knitting project WIP in the beginning of this year? Oh I can't believe it's over six months! The scarf WIP has been in my closet for months then! Finally I managed myself to get it done (phewww!!!), and here is how it turned out:

I knitted in the rounds with 5.0mm circular needles, worsted weight yarn, 60 inch long (not including the fringes).

I love the softy touch and the warm feeling as it was knitted in rounds. Take a closely look when it's folded:

This scarf will be a handmade gift for my honey's sister in July, she is living in a very cold place. I love it, so warm and happy to wear, hope it will make her warm too!

Sorry for uploading so many photos for one scarf, I'm so exciting and just love to enjoy pretty pictures of my knitting achievement here! Oh I have to say knitting is really another inspiration to me! :)

That's all for this post, wish you all a gorgeous new week ahead!!!

See you later! ♥

Hat of the Month!

2011-06-07T14:03:00.005+07:00

Hi everyone!

Just popping by to say Hello, hope you all had a great weekend!

I received a notice yesterday from the Hat of the Month group on Ravelry and I would love to share you all here: My Ridge Hat with Brim pattern has been voted for The Hat of the Month for a crochet-along for June! Such an earburning news to me!

I would like to express my big thanks to all of you who have brought me all the motivation and encouragement so far! This is my first attempt on designing a pattern and like a magic, it's over my expectation! I'm so thrilled!!!

Thank you! Wish you all a wonderful week ahead!

Lovestitch, xo

My First Sewing Project: Knitting Needle Roll

2011-05-30T23:33:00.007+07:00

Hello friends, hope your weekend was wonderful and enjoyable, filled with joy, happiness and so many crafty creations to amaze me!

I'm so excited now as I am going to show you my FIRST sewing project, which I've dreamed on for a long time: Sewing knitting needle roll!

Using this great tutorial as a guide, I modified a bit and here is my own one:

Not yet many things to put in the case as I've just taught myself how to knit, but it will be great to keep all my knitting tools for the next future :).

Single point needles, circular needles, double points, cable needles and other tools are all in order, very neat.

Needles and other stuff, just some but such a mess before:

They now have an ideal home! So comfy! So happy!

Isn't it lovely? I will spend more time to keep going in knitting, as promised to myself. Also have many crochet projects in waiting, but I've found sewing is really fun too! :). Oh my... how much time is enough for doing all things I love to do? Well, I should take it easy...

Have a gorgeous week ahead everyone!!!

See you soon, x

Free Pattern: Crochet Catherine Wheel Tissue Box Cover

2011-05-29T19:01:00.012+07:00

Hi everyone, here is the pattern for my crocheted Catherine Wheel Tissue Box Cover mentioned last post.

Sorry for not writing the pattern and posting it soon as promised. Some of you have asked for the pattern and I'm glad to get it done today to share you all. Let me know if there's any mistake found.

Crochet hook: 3.25mm, cotton yarn of your choice.
Ch 38, join with slip stitch to the first chain to form a circle.

Round 1: ch 1, sc in the same stitch, 1 sc in each chain around. Join.

Round 2: ch 1, sc in the same stitch, 1 sc in each of the next 18 stitches, 3 sc in the next stitch, 1 sc in each of the next 18 stitches, 2 sc in the next stitch, join with slip stitch to the first sc (42 sc in total).
Round 3: ch 1, sc in the same stitch, 3 sc in the next stitch, 1 sc in each of the next 18 stitches, 3 sc in the next stitch, sc in the next stitch, 3 sc in the next stitch, 1 sc in each of the next 18 stitches, 3 sc in the next stitch, join with slip sitch to the first sc. (50 sc in total)
Round 4: ch 1, sc in the same stitch, sc in the next stitch, 3 sc in the next stitch, 1 sc in each of the next 20 stitches, 3 sc in the next stitch, 1 sc in each of the next 3 stitches, 3 sc in the next stitch, 1 sc in each of the next 20 stitches, 3 sc in the next stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch, join with slip stitch to the first sc. (58 sc in total)
Round 5: ch 1, sc in the same stitch, 2 sc in each of the next 2 stitches, 3 sc in the next stitch, 1 sc in each of the next 22 stitches, 3 sc in the next stitch, 1 sc in each of the next 5 stitches, 3 sc in the next stitch, 1 sc in each of the next 22 stitches, 3 sc in the next stitch, 2 sc in each of the next 2 stitches, join with slip stitch to the first sc. (66 sc in total)
Round 6: ch 1, sc in the same stitch, 3 sc in each of the next 3 stitches, 3 sc in the next stitch, 1 sc in each of the next 24 stitches, 3 sc in the next stitch, 1 sc in each of the next 7 stitches, 3 sc in the next stitch, 1 sc in each of the next 24 stitches, 3 sc in the next stitch, 3 sc in each of the next 3 stitches, join with slip stitch to the first sc. (74 sc in total)coners

Continue with the same increasing rule (to create the corners) for the remaining rounds till round 11:

Round 7: 82 sc in total
Round 8: 90 sc in total
Round 9: 98 sc in total
Round 10: 106 sc in total
Round 11: 114 sc in total

Round 12: Ch 1, sc in the same stitch, *skip 2 stitch, 7 dc in the next stitch, skip 3 stitches, sc in the next stitch. Repeat from * to the last 2 shells. (Skip 3 stitches, 7 dc in the next stitch, skip 3 stitches, sc in the next stitch) twice. Join with slip stitch to the first sc. (16 shells in total)
Round 13: Slip stitch to the 4th dc, ch 1, sc in the same stitch, *ch 3, work 1 cluster over next 7 stitches, ch 3, sc in the next stitch. Repeat from * to end. Join with slip stitch to the first sc. (16 clusters in total)
Round 14: Ch 1, sc in the same stitch, *skip 3 ch, work 7 dc into the loop which closed next cluster, skip 3 ch, sc in the next sc. Repeat from * till end. (16 shells in total)
Round 15: Slip stitch to the 4th dc, ch 1, sc in the same stitch, *ch 3, work 1 cluster over next 7 stitches, ch 3, sc in the next stitch. Repeat from * to end. Join with slip stitch to the first sc. (16 clusters in total)

Repeat rounds 14 and 15 for the remaining depth of your tissue box.

Picot edging: Join new yarn in any stitch, * ch 3, slip stitch to the first ch (make picot), ch 2. Repeat from * to the remaining stitches to create lovely edging for your tissue box cover.

~ Enjoy! ♥

Crochet Little Bear Coasters

2011-05-28T14:43:00.011+07:00

Hello Hello everyone!

Thank you so much for your sharing and your comments on my last posts, I'm happy to have you here!

Well, today I feel great and have something little to share you, I've just made some coasters, they're easy and so fun to make!

Stack them up

You would like the pattern? You got it right here:

Face:

Magic circle,

Round 1: Ch 1, 8 sc in the loop. Do not join.

Round 2: 2 sc in each sc around (16 sc). Mark the first sc with a contrasting color maker.

Round 3: 1 sc in the next stitch, 2 sc in the next stitch (24 sc)

Round 4: sc increase in every 3 stitches (30 sc)

Round 5: sc increase in every 4 stitches (36 sc)

Round 6: sc increase in every 5 stitches (42 sc)

Round 7: sc increase in every 6 stitches (48 sc)

Round 8: sc increase in every 7 stitches (54 sc)

Skip 1 stitch, slip stitch to the next stitch to join. Slip stitch all around the circle to make it stronger.

Ears:

Join new yarn in any stitch of the circle, ch 1, skip 2 sc, make 6 dc in the next stitch, ch 1, skip 2 sc, slip stitch to the next stitch to join. Fasten off and weave all the yarn tails.

Count to the next 10 stitches, make the same ear for your coaster.

Use French knot for the eyes and sew to form the mouth in any way you like.

You are done! It's time to take one for your sweet cup!

♥ Have a happy weekend everyone! ♥

2011-05-24T14:57:00.004+07:00

Crochet Scarf With Galaxy Stitch

2011-05-12T13:11:00.000+07:00

I've just finished this scarf for my Uncle, using Galaxy stitch. Video tutorial HERE.

From more than two skeins of this yarn.

I love the color, love the stitch pattern, and love how happy my Uncle looked when I gave it to him!

Happy day to you all! ♥

Crochet Catherine Wheel Tissue Box Cover

2011-05-03T10:56:00.023+07:00

Hello everyone! Hope you all had a wonderful weekend!

I just finished this tissue box cover and must say I'm pretty pleased with it, can't wait to show you here! I love the softy cotton touch, the Catherine Wheel look and the cheery colors as well.

Take a look from the top:

This tissue box cover fixes a tissue box with 4.0"D x 6.5"L x 4.2"H, like this one:

After dressed:

This is my own design and I'm very pleased to share my pattern with you. So if you like it, just come back, I will write and post the pattern very soon!

Enjoy your new week and see you later! x

Just Lovely Things...

2011-04-29T21:09:00.014+07:00

... love this little birdie...

and a little flower and leaf...

also love this little bowl ...

love how it keeps the bobbins safe in shells...

but this lovely one also does its job well...

... just simple things, but my heart feels lovely...

♥ Hope everyone enjoy a SWEET and LOVELY weekend! ♥

Pattern For My Ridge Hat With Brim

2011-04-24T16:59:00.029+07:00

Hi everyone,

Thanks a bunch for making my day with your so sweet and lovely comments on my hat last post. Some of you have wondered if I could share the pattern, honestly I didn't write it down when I were making, so I tried to write it down here in case you would like to use. Please feel free to let me know if there's any mistake.

With size F (3.75mm) crochet hook and some cotton (or any kind of yarn as you wish), make a Magic circle.

Flat circle for the top:

Round 1: Ch 3 (count as the first dc), 11 dc in loop. Join with slip stitch to the beginning chain 3 (12 dc)
Round 2: 2 dc in each stitch around (24 dc)
Round 3: *1 dc in the next stitch, 2 dc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. Join (36 dc)
Round 4: *1 dc in each of the next 2 stitches, 2 dc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. Join (48 dc)
Round 5: *1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches, 2 dc in the next stitch. Continue around from *.Join (60 dc)
Round 6: *1 dc in each of the next 4 stitches, 2 dc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. Join (72 dc)
Round 7: *1 dc in each of the next 5 stitches, 2 dc in the next stitch. Continue around from *. Join (84 dc)

Hat body:

Round 1: Ch 3 (count as the first dc), * skip 2 stitches, work 2 dc in the next stitch, chain 1, 2 dc in the same stitch (this will form a shell). Skip 2 stitches, dc in the next stitch. Continue from * for the remainder of the round. Join with slip stitch to the beginning chain 3 (14 shells in total)
Round 2: Ch 1, Front Post Single Crochet (FPSC) around the previous chain-3, chain 1 (count as the first FPDC). * Skip 2 stitches, 2 dc in the next ch-1 space, chain 1, 2 dc in the same stitch to complete a shell. Skip 2 stitches, work 1 Front Post Double Crochet (FPDC) around the previous dc. Continue around from * for the remainder. Join to the chain 1 right above the first FPSC. (You will have total of 14 shells and 14 FPDC between each shell).
Repeat round 2 for the next 9 rounds. Join with slip stitch to the first FPDC.
(This will straighten the shells) Ch 1, FPSC around the previous stitch, * hdc in the next stitch, sc in the next stitch, slip stitch to the chain-1 space, sc in the next stitch, hdc in the next stitch, FPDC around the previous FPDC. Continue around from * for the remainder. Join (84 stitches in total)

Ridge brim:

Note: make a FPDC instead of a dc around every previous FPDC. This will create the ridges for your brim.

Round 1: Ch 1, FPSC around the previous stitch, ch 1, 1 dc in each of the next 2 stitches, 2 dc in the next stitch (make an increase). * 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches, 2 dc in the next stitch. Continue from *. Join (105 dc in total)
Round 2: Ch 1, FPSC around the previous stitch, ch 1, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches, 2 dc in the next stitch (make an increase). * 1 dc in each of the next 4 stitches, 2 dc in the next stitch. Continue from *. (126 dc)
Round 3: Ch 1, FPSC around the previous stitch, ch 1, 1 dc in each stitches around. (126 dc)
Round 4: Ch 1, FPSC around the previous stitch, ch 1, 1 dc in each of the next 4 stitches, 2 dc in the next stitch (make an increase). * 1 dc in each of the next 5 stitches, 2 dc in the next stitch. Continue from *. (147 dc)
Round 5: Ch 1, FPSC around the previous stitch, ch 1, 1 dc in each stitches around. (147 dc)

Slip stitch (or reverse sc) all around to make the brim stronger.

Update:

FLOWER PATTERN

This flower has three layers, three particular flowers are stacked from big to small.

The flower with big petals:
Make a magic circle,

Round 1: Chain 3 (count as a dc), ch 1, dc in the loop, ch 9, join with slip stitch to the first chain, ch 1. *dc, ch 1, dc, ch 9, join with slip stitch to the first chain, ch 1. Repeat from * 4 times. Join with slip stitch to the first ch-3 (12 dc and ch-1 space; 6 ch-9 loops in total).
Round 2: Ch 1, sc in the same stitch, * work 14 dc in the ch-9 loop, sc in the next dc. Repeat from * 5 times, join with slip stitch to the first sc. Fasten off.

The smaller one:
Magic circle. Ch 1, * sc in the loop, ch 6, 1 hdc in the third chain from hook, 1 dc in each of the next 3 stitches. Repeat from * 5 times, join with slip stitch to the first sc (6 petals in total). Fasten off.

The smallest one:
Magic circle, * ch 8, slip stitch in the loop. Repeat from * 4 times (5 petals in total). Fasten off

Assembling:
Put these flowers in order they should be done with the smallest one on top. Sew in place in the center. Sew it in the hat using the photo in my blog as a guide, if you like making it that way. :)

Pattern PDF link: download free pattern on Ravelry now

♥ HAPPY EASTER to EVERYONE!!! ♥

My Mom Has Another Hat!

2011-04-19T11:34:00.009+07:00

I always love making something for my Mom, something sometimes is very simple but special, just as it comes from my heart and I make it myself! Nothing is greater than a handmade one don't you think? So this time, again I crocheted her another hat! :)

I've just made it with some yarn left and it's my very own one, come with no pattern. I played around with some stitches and finally I decided to make one like this. Love how it turned out, love the stitches I've done, and love how it fits my Mom also!

Thank you soooooo much for your visit and your sweet words on my posts so far, they really made my day, to be honest!

Take good care everyone, hope you have a gorgeous week!

See you very soon!!! x

Crochet Brimmed Cap

2011-04-15T17:50:00.001+07:00

I had a lot of fun when this brimmed cap was done! This is the first time I made such a cap and it turned out over my expectation! I'm soooo excited to show you here! :)

Look from the top:

Do you notice a button on top? I'm so happy with this little cute one! :)

Pattern for the cap is from a Japanese book and in chart form, but it's very easy to make. Just come over here to get it if you are interested in.

Have a very happy weekend everyone!!! x

Cheerful Tissue Box Cover

2011-04-12T11:31:00.006+07:00

Hello friends! How are you? Hope your weekend was GREAT and your new week will be WONDERFUL!

Time goes by so fast, it's a while since my last post and how I miss blogging! I would also love to say THANK YOU for all your nice words so far, that means a lot to me. I do appreciate!

Don't you think this tissue box cover is lovely? I love this pattern right away I first saw it and now it's time to have one for my own. See how cute it is in my garden:

A look from top. Do you notice the edging? I made some picots instead of shell like the pattern says and it turned out lovelier than I thought!

Come over here for this lovely pattern if you are wondering where it is. Thank you Michelle for the great work!

Take care and see you very soon! x

Happy Day - Happy Hat!!!

2011-03-21T16:19:00.012+07:00

How was your weekend, my friends? I do hope you had a wonderful time with your loved ones and inspired me with your crafting creations! My Sunday was GREAT, I had the sunshine, with my family and my sweetheart by my side all day long! My Happy day also filled with this:

I finished this lovely hat on Sunday, and how I can say, just love, love, love it!!! :)
This hat was made with the same pattern as my last broad brimmed hat, I just modified a little bit and added the leaf embellishment all around, and it turned out much prettier than I expected!
Wishing you a beautiful new week, full of joy and happiness!!!
See you soon, x

My Mom Has A New Hat!

2011-03-19T20:41:00.013+07:00

I made this hat with some yarn left from the sweater I crocheted for my Mom a while ago. Crochet hats is not very difficult, I just always think and think what stitches I should use for them. Finally I decided to make it like this as you can see. My Mom likes it so much and wears it every morning when walking for exercise.

Hope you all enjoy a very beautiful weekend! x

Crochet Berry Bag

2011-03-06T20:42:00.013+07:00

Hello hello my friends! I can't believe how time flies, and I haven't been here for a while... Maybe you are wondering where I have been, I'm busy and busy at work these days, but I'm well and still alive :)! I would like to thank you so much for all your lovely words and kind thoughts so far, from my heart! I'm also sorry for not visiting you as often as I wish, but just let you know I always try to come to see your beautiful places as soon as I get a moment, and enjoy the inspiring things you did all the time!

I've just finished this bag, after weeks left it alone. I made this bag with no pattern, just used diagonal stitches for the whole bag body, and single crochet for the bottom, attached handles with single crochet too, it turned out as lovely as I desired. I named it "Berry" just as its variegated colors :).

The special thing of this bag is the lining was sewed with a zipper. This is the first time I attached a zipper for a lining. Oh my godness, it took me hours to sew and unsew again, many times... But finally it's done with a nice look, phewwwww..., thanks God!

With the zipper opened:
And closed: My new bag in the garden:
I'm very pleased with this bag, and in my mind, right now, I'm thinking about another bag pattern! Hehehhe, I'm bag addicted!

Have a beautiful Sunday and see you soon! x

Knit Roll Brim Hat

2011-02-13T17:23:00.009+07:00

Hello everyone! I do hope you had a great weekend, filled with so many crafting creations which inspire me all the time!

Well, I'm glad to be here to meet you, and to share you a hat I knitted a few days ago, just let you know how much I love it! :)
I made this hat using the pattern here, but just used the instruction as a guide. Using Bernat worsted weight yarn and 5.00mm circular needles, I casted on 80 stitches and knitted all around, made the decreased top with magic loop method, instead of sewing seam as the pattern says.

This hat is really great to keep warm and I love the softy feeling from it too! My first hat in knitting! :)

Wishing you a new week full of joy and happiness, also a Happy Valentine!!!

Lots of Love, xxx

Knit Scarf - New Year, New WIP

2011-01-30T21:32:00.011+07:00

I am knitting a scarf using magic loop method. I have learned this method recently and found it's really easy to do, a comfortable feeling when knitting! I've also learned how to knit with DPNs, will try it in another project one day, but now I prefer this one. I'm so excited with my first knitting WIP!

I'm using Bernat worsted weight and 5.0mm circular needles, cast on 62 stitches and knit stockinette stitches in the rounds. Hope I will get it done soon, knitting is always an achievement to me when I finish something! :)

Crochet Fat Bottom Bag

2011-01-30T19:25:00.012+07:00

Hello everyone!

Thank you for stopping by and your sweet words to me throughout the last time, I really appreciate your encouragement! I have been quite busy at work so I'm very excited to be back now! Hope you had a wonderful time with your loved ones!

I would like to show you the first Fat Bottom Bag, I dreamed on it for a long time! So many adorable crocheters made this bag and showed it on their beautiful blogs, they also create an inspiration to me! At last I finished my own one, it turned out as lovely as I desired! Pattern is from this book.
The lining inside. For those who's wondering how to sew the lining, please check here. I followed the instruction and must say I'm very pleased with it!
Have a wonderful and sunshine day!

LOL, xxx

Pay It Forward Participants

2011-01-18T22:22:00.011+07:00

Thank you everyone for participating my PIF!

Rachael, Aisyah Helga and Pammy Sue are the three first people who commented on my PIF post, so they will receive a handmade pressie from me! Please drop me an email with your mailing address and thanks ladies again for participating.

If someone would like to join this fun for the next, please check their blogs out, they will also Pay It Forward!

Thank you so much for your visits and lovely comments! I truly appreciate!!!

Have a beautiful and joyful day! x

Pay It Forward!

2011-01-16T19:30:00.012+07:00

Hello my lovely friends!

I'm very excited to be back to you after a while non-blogged. Hope you all had a wonderful time and the busy-ness will never keep us away from our wonder blogland!

I joined sweet Casey's Pay It Forward a while ago and now I'm Paying It Forward! It's one of my plans in this year, and I think it's time to start the fun!

If you are wondering about the PIF, here is how it works:

First 3 people who comment on this post will receive a handmade gift from me in sometime next 12 months.
If you are one of the three PIF participants I choose, you will have to host the same Pay It Forward on your blog and send a gift to the three first people who comment on yours too.

I'd really love to send you something special, so if you want to join, be one of the three first bloggers to comment here and let's pay it forward!

Stylish Blogger Award!

2011-01-05T21:00:00.000+07:00

Hello everyone,

I would like to share you some things made me more than happy at the beginning of New Year! :)

On my holidays, I received the nomination from lovely Teje, she'd like to give me the Stylish Blogger Award! Oh my, I cannot believe my little blog is 'stylish'! So amazing! I'm very honored to take it! Happy vacation then! :)

Another big surprise came to me when I got back, lovely Daperfectmix gave me the Stylish Blogger Award again! I was so delighted she passed this award on me! So excited! My honor, lady!
Thank you, thank you my sweet friends so much for your thoughts! This is really a big encouragement and a very special New Year present to me! Nothing is greater than!

Well, to keep the condition of the award, I will tell you 7 things about me (just wish I could skip this part):

I love nature and what is natural.
I love the simple things and always try to make everything simple.
My childhood memories always in my mind and always make me smile.
I rarely cook. But I believe I will be a good cook if I pay attention to cooking :).
I learned how to swim more than one year ago, and I didn't swim since then!
I learned Chinese for a about one year long time ago and now I even can't write my name in Chinese!
I love making bags and purses, a lot of bag ideas are waiting for me!

I'm happy to pass it to new lovely bloggers, just some of them here:

Josie from Flower Power
Tina from Beansie Bables
Louise from Gephart 836
Lee from Killiecrankie Farm
Lilybets from Nel bosco di Lilybets...favole, ricordi ed amicizia.
Pammy Sue from Scotty's Place
Linda from Linda Crochets
Anita from ASE Keepin' Creative
Tammy from T's Daily Treasures
Sarah from Home Made Gorgeous
PattieJ from Blissfully Domestic
Denise from Knitting Kitties
Jacey from Coffee 'n' Crochet
Maaike from creJJtion
Rudee from A Knitting Nurse
Sara from tangled happy

Visit them for your inspiration, they're really rock!

To accept the award, you have 4 duties: link back to the person who nominated you; tell 7 things about yourself; pass it to the 15 recently discovered bloggers; contact them to let them know about the award. Enjoy!!!Thanks again Teje and DaPerfectMix for the award! Thanks all my lovely friends for always warming my heart with your sweet friendship and encouragements all the time!!!

Have a wonderful New Year!

Hello New Year!!!

2011-01-04T13:11:00.008+07:00

How's your holidays, my friends? I do hope it was GREAT!!! Hope you spent a wonderful Holiday with family and friends!

That's great to be here again to say "Hi" to you all. I've just got back from my vacation, I knew I had a beautiful time.

Thank you so much for your visit and your lovely comments throughout the holidays! Just let you know how much I appreciated!

Wishing you a Happy New Year, full of love, health, success and joy! Wish you all the best for the prospective New Year!!!

My first completed knitting stuff

2010-12-28T11:52:00.015+07:00

Hello everyone,

Hope you enjoyed a wonderful Christmas with friends and your loved ones!

I've finished this baby washcloth while relaxing over the holidays, it's also my first completed knitting projects :). Pattern is from the book I told you before. Some mistakes would be found on this garter stitch washcloth, but for the beginner like me, it's an achievement! :)I can see over the blogland, there are so many beautiful crafting projects you are sharing throughout the holidays, love to enjoy them so much!

Have a wonderful holiday!!!

Thanks for dropping in! See you soon... :)

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE!!!

2010-12-24T16:59:00.007+07:00

Dear all my lovelies,

I would love to let you know that I do appreciate all your kind words and encouragements so far. Thanks for always making me smile and brightening my day with your lovely comments, I really enjoy them. Thanks ever so much for the bloggy friendship you are bringing, if only you know how much it means to me...

I wish you and your beloved ones a Wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!

With lots of Love from heart,
Lovestitch,
xxx

Crochet Christmas Heart Granny Square

2010-12-24T15:16:00.009+07:00

I found the pattern of this heart square by accident and love it, so I made one with christmassy colors and share you here. Hope you like it! For the pattern, come here.

Merry Christmas!!!

Crochet Lovely Bag - A Christmas Present

2010-12-22T14:44:00.018+07:00

Finally I finished this lovely bag just in time for Christmas, it will be a Xmas present for a friend of mine. So exciting! I fell in love with this bag since I found it by accident at the first time, luckily I found the pattern then. I love the stitches, the shape... It has a lovely form for a girl's small stuff. I especially love the ribbon around, it's a Polka Dot, I used about 1 meter including the bow.

And the lining with the magnetic snaps for more secure, as always, I love sewing lining...

Hope my friend loves it, hope it brings joy to her this Christmas season. Who can refuse a handmade gift which comes from the heart? :)

Wow, Christmas is just around the corner, I'm sure you are very busy now for making/buying gifts for your beloved ones, preparing the celebration, decorating your Christmas Tree,... so many things need to do! Enjoy it my all friends!

Merry Christmas!!!

Update: There's an available link to the pattern right on the post above, you just click on the word "...the pattern..." and you will be linked to the pattern. For those who might not recognized it, please click HERE to get yours!

Thank you!!!

My First Knitting Book

2010-12-19T19:26:00.013+07:00

Hi there, how time flies, it's weekend again and I hope you all have a wonderful time!

Did I tell you I'm learning how to knit? Yes, it's really my new fun. I have a big love with crochet, and now I think I should make friend with knitting. But honestly, I did not spend much time for knitting until now, well so many things to do and time has its limit.

I received the parcel from Amazon.com yesterday, my knitting book arrived! It's a "Teach Yourself Visually Knitting". Hope I could get help with this lovely book, for such a beginner like me.

The book has a colorful and visual design, I can find a lot of knitting techniques with picture demonstrations. Let's go through some pages:

So interesting, isn't it? Well, there's much more things I should do, but I will take it easy, will enjoy it at my leisure. Learning and enjoying the crafting feeling, what could be greater than? :)

Thank you so much for stopping by and see you very soon!

Crochet Christmas Flower Doily

2010-12-12T18:01:00.015+07:00

This doily inspired me at the first time I saw it. I love the color, the stitches and the special feeling I had when making it. Thank you so much Glor at Crochet Galore for sharing such a beautiful pattern!

I added 2 dc more in the last round, just hope it will be thicker, but when I finished, how surprising it turned out ruffled, so there's a little bit difference from pattern:

But I love it. The ruffled edging looks like petals of a big flower. Glor, may I call it a Christmas Flower Doily? :)

Wish you all a fabulous weekend!

With love, xxx

Update: Christmas Potholder Crochet Pattern

2010-12-12T14:40:00.008+07:00

Hello! It seems I am often here just on weekend, I've been quite busy these days, so it's really happy every time I can have a talk - or thought to you. But I always keep going around to enjoy your lovely worlds at any time I can. Thanks ever so much for all your lovely words on the Christmas Potholder from my last post, if only you know how it brightened my days!

Well, I promised to post the pattern for the Christmas potholder in my last post, I do it right now. This pattern is from a Japanese book, I found chart via Picasa. The problem is I could not find the link again to share you here, as I printed it out and lazy me did not save the link :(. So I've uploaded the one I have to my Picasa album, you can get it if you are interested in.

For those who are not used to reading chart, I did "translate" it into US crochet term just in case. Please let me know if there are something unclear :).

You can use any yarn and hook.
Gauge: Not important.

FRONT:
With RED, make a magic circle.
1. Ch 1, sc in loop, (3 dc, 2 sc) 4 times, join to beginning chain.
2. *Ch 4, sl st in between 2 sc, repeat from * 3 times, join to beginning chain.
3. Ch 1, *sc into the ch-4 space, 5 dc, sc in the same space. Repeat from * 3 times, join to the beginning chain.
4. *Ch 6, sl st to the previous sl st, repeat from * 3 times. Join.
5. *Ch 1, sc into the ch-6 space, 8 dc, sc in the same space. Repeat from * 3 times. Join to beg ch and cut the yarn.
6. With GREEN, *ch 4, sl st to the previous sl st, repeat from * 3 times. Join to beg ch.
7. Sl st into space, *ch 3, dc decrease into the same space, ch 1, (cluster (3 dc joined), ch 1) 3 times in the same space. Repeat from * in each space around. (total 16 cluster ch 1). Join to the top of beginning chain 3.
8. Ch 4, dc in ch-1 space. *Dc, ch 1, dc* in each ch-1 space around. Cut the yarn.
9. With WHITE, sl st in to the ch-1 space, ch 3, dc in the same space, *ch 1, 2 dc, ch 1, 2 dc* around. Ch 1, 2 dc in the first space, ch 1 (made shell), join to the top of beg ch3.
10 - 11. Repeat row 9.
12. Ch 3, 2 dc in the same space, *ch 1, 3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc* around. Ch 1, 3 dc in the first space (made shell), ch 1, join to the top of beg ch3. Cut the yarn.
13. With RED, Ch 3, 2 dc in the same space, dc in the ch-1 space, *3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc, dc in the ch-1 space* around. 3 dc in the first space (made shell), ch 1, join to the top of beg ch3. Cut the yarn.
14. With WHITE, Ch 3, 3 dc in the same space, dc in the previous dc, *8 dc in the ch-1 space, dc in the previous dc* around. 4 dc in the first space (made shell of 8dc), join to the top of beg ch3. Cut the yarn.

BACK:
With RED, magic circle.
1. ch 3, 15 dc into the loop. Join to the top of 1st ch 3 (total 16 dc).
2. Ch 3, dc in the same st, 2 dc in each dc around. Join to the top of 1st ch 3 (total 32 dc).
3. With GREEN, ch 3, *2 dc in next st, dc in next st* around. Join to the top of 1st ch 3 (total 48 dc).
4. Ch 3, dc in the same st, *ch 1, 2 dc, ch 1, 2 dc* around. Ch 1, 2 dc in the first st, ch 1 (made shell), join to the top of beg ch3.
5 - 7. Repeat row 4.
8. With RED, Ch 3, 2 dc in the same space, dc in the ch-1 space, *3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc, dc in the ch-1 space* around. 3 dc in the first space (made shell), ch 1, join to the top of beg ch3. Cut the yarn.
14. With WHITE, Ch 3, 3 dc in the same space, dc in the previous dc, *8 dc in the ch-1 space, dc in the previous dc* around. 4 dc in the first space (made shell of 8dc), join to the top of beg ch3. Cut the yarn.

Edging and Hanger: With WS facing, Join RED yarn, ch 1, sc all around, join to the beginning ch. Ch 18, skip 8sc, join to the next sc. Turn and sc increase for the remaining chains.

Hope you enjoy your weekend! :)

Crochet Potholder for Christmas

2010-12-05T17:04:00.013+07:00

How is your holiday, my lovely friends? Well, I bet you had a great great time, so I would love to enjoy your posts about it!

For me, I have just attended a wedding party of my colleagues today, yes, they both are my colleagues! Wedding, what a happy time in our life! I don't know how my wedding will be, but every time attending, I always have a very special feeling. I am happy for them, and think of myself, about my man, my marriage life in future, kids, .... Oh forget it, I always have a big imagination in my mind! :)

Back home, I completed the last stitches of this Christmas potholder and must show you right now because I can't wait! :)

FRONTand BACK

Pattern will be posted as soon as I can. Creations for Christmas are so fun, and special to me! Hope I could make more and more!

Take loads of care everyone, and enjoy your time, no matter how!

Have a fabulous Sunday!
xxx

Crochet Christmas Ornaments

2010-12-03T12:02:00.021+07:00

Hello my dear friends! I am here again, it's such a happiness to me as always! I do appreciate for all lovely words you have made on my blog, if only you know how it's meaningful to me, thank you! Hope you have spent a great week!

These days I really enjoy a lot of beautiful stuff for welcoming Greeting season from your wonderful places, they all are adorable, give me a very Christmas feeling!

I have just finished some little things for Xmas, very little, very handmade, and I am very please to share :).

A Christmas Card: I made this card for all of you, my so lovely friends, wishing you a very merry Christmas!
You'd like to have the pattern for this tree? You got it, right here, so simple, and so fun to make.

- The Xmas Tree:
With red, chain 14.
Row 1-3: 14 single crochet, turn.
Row 4: 1 sc decrease, 11 sc in next stitches (skip the last stitch and turn) (total 12 sc).
Row 5: 12 sc across. Change to Green, turn.
Row 6: 12 sc across, turn.
Row 7: 9 sc across, 1 sc decrease in the last 2 st, turn (total 10 sc).
Row 8-9: 10 sc across. Change back to Red, turn.
Row 10: 10 sc across, turn.
Row 11: 7 sc across, 1 sc decrease in the last 2 stitches (total 8 sc), turn.
Row 12-13: 8 sc across. Change to Green, turn.
Row 14: 5 sc across, 1 sc decrease in the last 2 stitches (total 6 sc), turn.
Row 15-17: 6 sc across, turn.
Row 18: 1 sc decrease, 3 sc across (total 4 sc), turn.
Row 19: 4 sc across, turn.
Row 20: 1 sc decreae, 1 sc (total 2 sc), turn.
Row 21: 2 sc.
Row 22: 1 sc decrease.
- The little star: I used the pattern here, but just made for 2 rounds.
- The base of the tree:
Row 1: skip 4 first stitches, work 6 sc across through the back loop of the beginning ch, turn.
Row 2-4: 6 sc across.
- French knot embroidery to make the snowy dots.
Make your own card as special as you want!

Star ornament: The lovely star, with very Christmas colors!And how it looks when getting along with the Christmas tree! Lovely friendship, isn't it?Pattern for this star is still from my fav book, making it made me really happy!

And, the last one I would love to share, a first piece of my knitting, my practice of stockinette stitch, it also has Christmas colors, oh a bit shy :)
I love to learn knitting, love to do crochet, and other lovely crafting, just wish I got much free time... But we seem hardly have enough time for what we want to do :)

Hope you all have a fabulous weekend, and enjoy it!!!

xxx

Crochet Apple

2010-11-28T17:14:00.007+07:00

I really enjoyed making this lovely apple. Once found the pattern, I knew I could not wait. With a cup of coffee and a hook, I started right away. It turned out lovely, isn't it?
How nice it looks to be on a tree! I just love to give it to you all!
Oh, I nearly forgot, you can get the pattern here if you're interested in.

It's time I have to back to my knitting, I have just started and really love to learn.

Enjoy your Sunday, my lovelies!

See you soon, xxx

Crochet Another Pouch

2010-11-28T15:01:00.010+07:00

Long time ago I gave a colleague of mine a little pouch as a gift. She loved it so much, and although it's now getting old and shaggy, she still brings it with her every day. I know it's time to replace it with a new one so I made this one for her.

How it looks like with the lining inside. Did I mention I love sewing lining for all my bags? My sewing machine seems just to be used for making that only thing! :)
Fastened it off by pulling the drawstring. Actually I prefer a zipper than a drawstring, but attaching a zipper always scares me! Anyway, hope it will be with her all the way!

Crochet Cute Little Doggie

2010-11-26T11:43:00.019+07:00

Hi everyone! Long time no see! I miss blogging so much, miss all my lovelies and that's great to be here with you again!

Today I would like you to meet my Little Puppy, he's very happy to meet you!

"Hello! So nice to meet you!"

A smile is a good sign of happiness, isn't it? "Yes, I am smiling, and welcome you to my close friend's blog!"

"I was watching and listening her carefully when she was telling me about some lovely things in life, and about how she's happy to have you here!"

Oh my lovely Puppy, what are you thinking? You seem staring into space! "No, I just feel sad a little bit, as it's time I have to say goodbye my new friends, I will miss them!". Don't worry little Puppy, you will always in our hearts!

So, take a rest Puppy, have a good sleep, and beautiful dreams will come....!
Oh what a lovely Puppy! I love him so much!

You love him, too? And you also love to have the pattern for your own? I knew I did, when I first saw the pattern here and bookmarked it. But this time, by clicking the link above, you will see nothing on the page, I don't know why too. Luckily, I did make a copy on my hard drive, so I can share it to you all now, please come here HERE to get yours!

Have a wonderful Sunday!
xxx

Beautiful Blogger Award

2010-11-17T15:30:00.015+07:00

It's soooooo happy to me when I was given this lovely award from Clara and then Hayley, thanks ever so much for thinking of me "Beautiful Blogger", you really made my day! :)

Well I'll tell you 10 things you don't know about me, keeping with the award conditions:

I am a Vietnamese girl, also the only girl in my family.
I am 25% French, from my grandfather.
I haven't got married yet.
I love dogs and other animals, so much.
I learned to crochet about one year ago, and deeply fall in love with it.
I bring home a ton of yarn and thread but when starting a new project, I bring another one :( .
I just started to learn knitting yesterday, and found it's really fun!
I go jogging 4-5km every morning.
I love coffee and enjoy it every day.
I also love Louis Vuitton bags but never think about buying one!

Phewww, done! Now it's my turn to pass it to 10 blogs, such a hard job! I have to choose only 10 of 10 millions beautiful blogs! So some of them are:

Penelope from L is for Love
Casey from plus3 crochet
Susie from Uit het breitaske
Sonia from Raine and Sage
Jacquie from Bunny Mummy
Teje and Nero from Nero's Post and Patch
Mopo from La tana di...
Nélia from Magia do Crochet
Ames and Tash from Le Tigre Papillon
Glor from Crochet Galore

I just wish I could write down my list as long as I love, not have to stop at 10, very sorry for that. And, it's my big fun if you take this award and pass it to the other blogs, but please don't mind if you don't want to. :)

Love the Sunshine

2010-11-09T18:47:00.026+07:00

It's been quite some time since my last post, about ten days, hasn't it? It seems like ages to me!!!
I was a little bit busy these days, so now I am back to say 'Hi' to you all, hope you have a wonderful time!
This lovely heart motif is from "Beyond the Squares" - Edie Eckman - I mentioned in my last post. It's also the first time I tried a thing with my favorite book. And I love it. Do you think "Sunshine Heart" is a good name? :)

Enjoying flowers in sunshine is really great, they are so bright and beautiful. I took some "Sunshine Pics" today and would love to share you.

This lovely flower is quite popular in tropical climate areas, so once I saw it from Attic24, I just love to tell her there are so many such flowers in my garden. I knew them when I was just a very little girl, and now they're still there, as from all my childhood...
These flowers have just come to my garden recently, and I have no idea what they are called, just love them, the tiny flowers look bright and lovely in sunshine!
These flowers are always growing in clusters, so once they are in blossom, they look like to be in a vase!
And here, also in sunshine, a washcloth with sc cluster edging for my friend, she loves pink, and really loves it. Ah, it's also a big surprise to her knowing I can crochet! :)

Crochet Colorful Bracelets

2010-11-01T16:03:00.012+07:00

These bracelets are what I did on the rest of last Sunday, after "Coffee Break!". Once I found a very beautiful and easy-to-make tutorial on The Purl Bee, I knew I could not miss these lovely things, now here they are! Thanks for sharing!

I will make some more for matching my dress colors. Size S or M fix my hand well (for brown and blue one), but I also made size L for the red one, so you will see the button was not placed right at the edge as the others.
But look, it's still OK on my hand! :)
Hope you all have a new wonderful week!
xxx

Coffee Break!

2010-10-31T13:40:00.009+07:00

Hi all, how are you? I guess you all have a very wonderful weekend!

It must be great to relax with a cup of coffee, in the fresh Sunday morning, how peaceful it is! And I know, I got that feeling, this morning, with my coffee and a hook :).

Getting the small table-cloth completed is also my big fun this morning, so I would love to share it to you all, hope you enjoy your weekend, and enjoy a Coffee Break! :)

Some small pouches

2010-10-14T10:02:00.023+07:00

I love to crochet some small things for my small stuff, and when I saw the pattern from Miva Crochet, I started to give it a go! The blue pouch and the pink cell phone case were made with the same pattern.
Opened them:
And here is another tiny pouch I made for my Mum to keep her some change. It came with no pattern, just work single crochet all around, adorned with some spike single crochet.

Crochet Bag in Blossom

2010-09-19T19:32:00.009+07:00

I think about this lovely bag all the time since I first found the pattern on Crochet me. Thank you Julie for sharing it!
When starting, I worried a little bit about the color. But you see, it's beautiful in its own special way! I love it, so much.
Lining inside. I always love sewing linings for all my bags. It's really really fun!Enjoy your new day, friends, and happy hooking!

Crochet Shell Bag

2010-09-19T15:17:00.016+07:00

This shell bag pattern comes from a Japanese book I have read long time ago. I decided to give it a try with the variegate color yarn, and it came with surprising design really impressed me!The lining in the same tone of crochet fabric, and the magnetic snaps as well.I and my new bag are going out, ah hah... :)

Morning in the garden

2010-09-02T21:14:00.024+07:00

When getting out into the garden this morning, a very comfortable feeling came to me. Fresh air and cool weather, green trees, colorful flowers, ... everything is perfect! Today I would love to share you something about my Dragon Bean trellis.

Few months ago, my Mom sown some seeds in our garden, now they're growing and in bloom. It's a kind of bean, mainly grown in Asia plants like green beans, soybeans... and perhaps its shape looks like the scales of Dragon so it is called "Dragon Bean"! :)

Observing its normal growing process within the morning you will feel so interesting. Buds are just showing...

Then blooming...

In purple...

And in white

So beautiful! So soft! So bright! So much I love...!!!

And where a flower is, there come a bee right away!!! A natural rule...

OOhhhh, so strange!!! There was a strawberry on my bean trellis!!! :)

I took it on my hand... (but cannot eat!!!)

Do you love to get pattern for this nice strawberry?
You get it right here:
Fruit body:
Make a magic circle
Round 1: chain 1, 6 sc in the loop. Do not join. Add a marker in your beginning stitch.
Round 2: 2 sc in each sc around (12 sc total)
Round 3: *1 sc in next stitch, 2 sc in next stitch. Repeat around from * (18 sc total)
Round 4: sc increase every 2 stitches (24 sc)
Round 5-7: 1 sc in each sc around (24 sc)
Round 8: sc decrease every 2 stitches (18 sc)
Round 9-10: sc in each sc around (18 sc)
Round 11: 1 sc, 1 sc decrease (12 sc)
Round 12: 1 sc in each sc around (12 sc)
Round 13: 1 sc decrease in each stitch around (6 sc decrease total)
Stuff and sew shut.
Leaf:
Magic circle.
Round 1: chain 1, 6 sc in the loop.
Round 2: 1 sc increase in each sc around (12 sc)
Round 3: chain 1, * sc in the same stitch, chain 3, skip 2 stitch, sc in next stitch. Continue from * all around, join at beginning chain (4 chain-3 total)
Round 4: chain 5, sc in the 2nd chain from hook, 1 half double crochet in next chain, dc in each of next 2 chains, slip stitch in the next sc (total 1 sc, 1 hdc, 2 dc total). This will give you a leaf triangle, continue for the remainder.
Sew the leaf to the top of the strawberry body. Make a chain loop on top of the strawberry if you want to use it for a key. Secure and sew in the tails.

Crochet Bottle Cover

2010-09-02T18:26:00.016+07:00

I have just crocheted this water bottle cover this morning, so interesting! It's nice, isn't it? ;)

Cotton yarn will work best for bottle covers because of its natural ability to absorb moisture and easy to wash. I used 2.75mm crochet hook for this cover.

We will start from the bottom to the top of the bottle.

Bottom:

Round 1: Make a magic circle, chain 3, 15 double crochet in the loop, join at the first chain-3 (total 16 dc).
Round 2: Chain 3, 2 dc in each dc around (total 32 dc).
Round 3: Chain 3, *2 dc in next stitch, 1 dc in next stitch. Repeat around from * (48 dc total).

You can add extra rounds or subtract to fit your bottle bottom.
Body:

Round 1: chain 1, Front Post Single Crochet around the chain-3 space, chain 1. * Skip 2 stitches, work 2 dc in the next st, chain 1, 2 dc in the same st (this will complete a shell). Skip 2 stitches, work 1 Front Post Double Crochet (FPDC) in the next st. Continue across from * for the remainder with 1 FPDC between shells. Join with the chain 1 above the FPSC. You will have total of 8 shells and FPDC between each shell.
From round 2 onwards: Repeat round 1 for the remainder of the length of the bottle cover you desired (For mine, I made 17 rounds).

Drawstring: chain 80 (or as many as you like), this will keep the cover in place. Sew little flowers on the ends of drawstring.
Little flowers: (make 2)
Magic circle, * sc in the loop, chain 2, 1 cluster of 3 dc, chain 2, sc in the loop. Repeat from * 4 times (there will be 5 petals of the flower).

Crochet Granny Squares: WIP

2010-08-30T21:25:00.018+07:00

Above are some granny squares I have crocheted for my "A Granny A Day" plan. The more I make them, the more I love, so much, very much, nearly be addicted...! :) I always try to make one a day for my different projects (but sometimes I did not, hix), and now it becomes my WIP project (ah yes, for those who wondered: WIP = Work In Progress).I also have a plan of joining them. A granny-bag first, and then a blanket with shell edging, and perhaps something else, any plan can be changed, who knows! But you see, they are cool, although they are spread out or stacked, aren't they?

The pattern for these grannies comes from Attic24, she made a great tutorial for this. I also love the other patterns of hexagons and ripples... Once visit her blog, you will see a rainbow! Thanks for sharing, Lucy!

Crochet Shell Sweater

2010-08-15T18:57:00.028+07:00

Hi, there! It's too long since my last post, I was too busy and miss blogging so much! Thanks for stopping by my blog and hope you enjoy it!

This sweater is for my Mom, I am so happy I finished it, after nearly 6 months letting it a WIP project at room corner due to my laziness! I promised to myself this time I have to get it done as soon as I can, and after more than two weeks of patience, and of love, at last it has been completed! I love how it fixes my Mom as well! Phew...! Thanks God! :)

The pattern for this sweater is from shell stitch and so easy to make.
I used 3.75mm crochet hook and cotton yarn.

Do you think the pattern is so pretty? I love it so much. I also uploaded the charts for this sweater just in case.

Disappointed crochet day!

2010-08-10T09:54:00.005+07:00

Next week is my close friend's birthday, and I love to give her a special handmade gift. I decided to make a drum-bag, was found on internet and it's really a lovely pattern. I used all my Sunday to crochet with hope of nice present... And the result, you know, I just wanna throw it away!!!

Although I know the yarn quality delivered is not as my wish when placing order, it's not soft as the ads, so stiff and the color is much darker, I tried with patience to get it done. But the more I tried, the more I felt badly let down!

I called the yarn shop and they promised to change another kind of yarn for me within a week. I will return them all, including the "drum-bag", if possible, huhhhhh...!!!

Anyway this is also an experience for me, and for any experience, we always pay bid! :)

Crochet Fashionable Bag

2010-07-19T13:26:00.069+07:00

Once reading an instruction for a fashionable bag on a crochet magazine (borrowed from a friend and I cannot remember its name), I know I have to make one for my own. It's a combination of solid granny squares with 4 different colors, and the design is really attractive!

This really is a great idea to start my "A Granny A Day" plan, so I began with a very excited feeling! The result is load of solid squares like this:

Then I joined them together in the way like this, put handles on, sewed lining and here is my complete bag:

Opened with the lining inside:

I think maybe you want to know how to make it, so I tried to write down what I have done in case you need, hope it's useful for you.

Instruction for the bag:

You need to make 24 motifs (6 motifs in one color), each motif is about 9.5-10cm.
Size F 3.75mm crochet hook.
Cotton yarn is for your choice, as long as it reaches your gauge.
A pair of bag handles: you can order from your local store.

Motif pattern and instruction: you can find here (thanks Teresa).

Joining to form a bag:

Follow this diagram and use the yarn color which you choose as main color of your bag to join motifs together to form a bag (for my bag it is green).

With wrong side facing, work a row of sc along edges, work each sc through front loops only on both edges. Dash lines on diagram are where motifs folded and joined to both front and back to form side and bottom seams.

Note: Do not join the outside edges of the top 4 motifs on both sides as this a bag opening.

With right side facing and your main color yarn, work sc in each stitch along the outside edges of the top motifs on the bag. Weave all ends.

Must say, I love this bag soooooooooo much!!! Just wanna bring it with me all my way! :)

Granny Squares - A Granny A Day

2010-07-04T14:27:00.025+07:00

I am really into making granny squares, I love the mixed-colors, the stitches, and the shapes... But most of my projects are still undone as I am too busy and just have the limit time for crocheting, so I decided to start "a granny a day" plan, this will take little time a day so I will get as many as I like day by day. I also love to join them in some different ways for a blanket, table clothes, pillowcases, totes or decoration... Wow, it sounds promising! Let's see heheh... :)

The first one for the first day:

PS: you can find the pattern and instruction of this granny square from Attic24, a very beautiful place for you to visit. Thanks for sharing all the best things!

Crochet blouse with cotton thread

2010-07-04T13:35:00.009+07:00

Sew a lining for crocheted bags

2010-06-28T14:44:00.016+07:00

I crocheted some bags but really don't know how to make the lining at all. Thanks to futuregirl, I myself can make the lining perfectly now! Her instruction with crystal clear photos helped me a lot. Alice, I must say thank you very much for your hard work and your sharing. The tutorial is so detailed and beautiful! I understand you had to take a lot of time to finish this tutorial, and lots of other things beside, I am grateful for that.

Take loads of care and keep on your great job!

This is where you can learn how to make the lining for your crocheted bags: http://www.futuregirl.com/craft_blog/2008/1/tutorial-sew-lining-for-crocheted-bag.aspx

Winter Solace Bolero

2010-06-14T22:22:00.014+07:00

This is an easy-to-make bolero and just take a little time to finish.
By chance finding the very clear instruction for this from http://ginantsilyo.com/blog/2009/09/winter-solace-bolero-pattern-and-instructions/, I can't wait to make it!
Thanks for sharing!

Mauve mini bag

2010-06-07T21:50:00.018+07:00

This bag is small but strong and you can use to safely keep your personal stuff.
Opened with the lining inside (instruction from futuregirl).

The linning is very easy to do, but I have just figured out how to use my sewing machine, so it took me almost an hour to get done, phew!!! It looks cool anyway, isn't it? :)

Shell crochet hat

2010-05-23T20:50:00.008+07:00

I have just finished this hat and taken a picture to upload here. This hat is for Mom, she will wear it every morning when walking for exercise. She likes it so much, thanks Mom!

Boye Crochet Hook Set - Steel and Aluminum

2010-05-23T20:40:00.015+07:00

I have just purchased this Boye crochet hook set from Amazon.com and love it very much. It comes with great case and all sizes I need. I really like the hooks Teresa used on her videos, they are Boye crochet hooks, it's her favorite brand also. I have them on my hand and from now on will never worry about having the right size hook anymore! Nice addition for my crochet collection!

Some little pouches

2010-05-23T20:28:00.009+07:00

This pouch was made for my camera. Although it's covered with a SwissGear case, I still want to make this. Put the camera into this pouch and put them both into the carrying case, my cam can be protected from scratches.

A cotton coin-pouch

Make two heart-squares and seam it together, I got a nice pouch for some small belongings.

Shopping bag

2010-05-23T20:22:00.010+07:00

Colorful things for opening my new camera!

2010-05-19T10:28:00.013+07:00

I have just received a new camera, purchased from Best-Buy US. It's a Sony Cyber-shot with silver cover, 4x optical zoom and 14.1 megapixel. The design is very cool, thin and fashionable. It also gives true color and very sharp pictures. Love it!

And here are some stuff I made to open my new cam :)

Coasters on my floor:

Colorful cap on green grass:

Beret cap

2010-05-04T12:54:00.009+07:00

Pattern HERE

My first Teddy Bear

2010-05-02T19:57:00.007+07:00

It's so cool, isn't it? Love it so much! This is my first bear, and I begin to fall in love with amigurumi crochet!

On my chair:

A shell headband with cotton thread

2010-04-29T14:57:00.016+07:00

This headband was made for a friend. I promised to make one for her a long time ago! :) Although it's quite easy and simple, I took much time to think of the way it looks like and choose the appropriate colors as well. Many projects are waiting for me, so I sometimes nearly forgot! This time I try to keep my promise and here it is.

The second bolero

2010-04-23T11:06:00.012+07:00

This bolero looks so easy to crochet, so I decided to make one. But when starting to go into the work, I realized that it's not so simple as I thought. Although it just needs the basic stitches to complete, I easily got confused the stitches on putting them in order to create the patterns, and in a few times I had to remove the confused stitches to start again. Anyway, I did finish it and got some experiences, which are very helpful to my crocheting.

Crochet for sharing

2010-04-23T10:39:00.013+07:00

I have found that crochet is also a happiness, when you not only crochet for yourself, but for the others around you. I have just finished a hat and gave it for my close colleague as a giveaway. She loves it so much and it's so happy to me when seeing her face with my hat on her head! That's a great feeling!

The hat:

And here is a scarf I have just had it given to another colleague in Germany. She will receive it on Monday, hope she likes it. It's a seed stitch scarf I have learned from Teresa.

My first perfect bag

2010-04-23T10:26:00.014+07:00

I am very pleased with this bag, although it took too long for me to finish. With front post and back post stitches, the bag looks so secured, thick but still be soft and the mix-color is so cool!

With the lining inside when opened:

Crochet yarn and thread

2010-04-21T18:36:00.018+07:00

Which do you prefer, yarn or thread?
Crochet is quite popular in my country. You will easily find your yarn or thread, but the variation of them, however, is not much. Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate, so we usually do not use the thick and fuzzy yarn for crocheting as temperate zone. Especially in Ho Chi Minh city, where I am living, the hot climate is mainly, so thread is preferred. I really love many different kinds of yarn and thread in the other countries showed on internet, but it's so hard to find in Vietnam.

My cotton thread collection:

And the tough thread usually used for making bags:

I also use some kinds of cotton yarn for sweaters, scarfs and hats...

Beyond the Squares - My favorite crochet book

2010-04-21T11:23:00.012+07:00

Placed an order on Amazon.com, I waited about two weeks (for international shipping) to get "Beyond the Squares Crochet Motifs". It's not only worth my waiting, but it really meets my favorite also. With a great cover, covered with pictures of gorgeous motifs in attractive colors, Beyond the Squares is a good pennyworth.

You can find many useful things in the book, from a simple explanation of how to work the "sliding loop" for starting without a chain ring to the principle of flatness for circles. Hundreds of patterns with clearly instructions, including joining motifs, how to keep your circles from being either ruffle or cupped, tips for beginners... It also talks about making circles, triangles, squares and unusual shapes in a very cool way.

I especially love the explanation of how is crochet, it's simple just:

1. Put your hook somewhere.
2. Wrap the yarn over your hook.
3. Pull the hook through something.

Interesting? And here are some images of the lovely book:

My crochet are improving

2010-04-20T16:49:00.023+07:00

Compare this doily to my first one, could you see how improving am I? :)

With a vase when the Lunar New Year was coming up

The bolero made during the Tet holidays

Chart for this popular bolero:

The ball responded to Teresa's instruction:

A nice heart square:

My first teacher in crochet

2010-04-20T12:58:00.030+07:00

In a random Google search for crochet, I occasionally found The Art of Crochet - Teresa. I am really impressed with her work, although threre are thousands of websites, blogs and videos about crochet on internet. Her instructions and videos are so great that you just need to follow her channels to become a good crocheter! I did not know anything about crochet before, even how to distinguish knitting from crocheting! Thanks to Teresa, who dedicated most of the time, mind and money for teaching crochet to everyone around the world for free, I now can be well-done with plenty of crochet techniques and can make anything I like!

You should not miss her YouTube channel for hundreds of best tutorial videos to improve your crochet rapidly if you are a beginner like me. But if you are crochet expert, you also can get a lot of new and useful things for your skill here; and even if you are non-crocheter, you will have chance to admire her talent!

With my heart full of appreciation, I would like to say thank you Teresa a thousand times. I would never reached crochet so fast without your help. You are my great teacher, who are very kind and giving. I am so lucky, and never so more for the love of crochet you have given to me.

My first crocheted stuff

2010-04-16T16:56:00.028+07:00

Here are some stuff at my beginning days, I just keep a few of them, some were given-away and thrown-away! They look not beautiful, but I always keep them for my memory.

The first hat:

The first pouches:

Cell phone cases:

A gray cap for my Mom:

And here, my terrible first doily:

Begining days of crochet

2010-04-16T09:50:00.010+07:00

I came to crochet by chance a few months ago, after seeing some crocheted shirts at a shop. They are so cool but quite expensive, so I wish I could make one for my own, and I decided to learn to crochet. Starting by going to market and buy a hook, some skeins of yarn, with my first basic crochet book, I am really into crochet. This is really myself-teaching because nobody around me knows how to crochet.