The Stress Free March Pattern

Our little, baby Temperature Blanket seems to be growing up into a big one! I’m delighted to share the March design by Ellen of Crochet.By.Ellen. You can learn more about Ellen here on the blog!

Please enjoy Ellen’s lovely stripe as we usher in those Spring temps!

Materials:

160 yds High Temp Color Worsted

160 yds Low Temp Color Worsted

6.0mm crochet hook

Tapestry needle (for weaving ends)

Key:

 

ch: chain

dc: double crochet

hdc: half double crochet

sc: single crochet

sc2tog: single crochet two together

sc3tog: single crochet three together

tr: treble crochet

tr2tog: treble crochet two together

tr3tog: treble crochet three together

Pattern:

(High Temp)

Row 1: Ch 2 (counts as HDC), hdc in each st across. (180)

Row 2: Ch 2 (counts) Hdc in 3rd loop across (working into the BACK of the fabric). (180)

(Low Temp)

Row 3: Ch 1 (counts) [sc, hdc, dc, 3tr in next st, dc, hdc] Repeat [ ] across until 5 sts remain. Sc, hdc, dc, 3tr, dc. (See photo below for reference.) (30 raised “waves and a total of 240 sts)

You may carry this color up the side.

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(High Temp)

Row 4: Ch 1(does not count) [sc in next 2 sts, 3 sc in next st, sc in next 2 sts, sc3tog] Repeat until 7 sts remain. Sc in next 2 sts, 3 sc in next st, sc in next 2 sts, skip st, sc in last st.

Note on proper stitch placement: the 3 SC should rest in the center (2nd of 3) treble crochet stitch From the previous row. See placement photos below for help.

Row 5: Ch 1 (counts) sc, [sc in next 2 sts, 3sc in next st, sc in next 2 sts, sc3tog] Repeat [ ] until 6 sts remain. Sc in next 2 sts, 3 sc in next st, sc, sk 1, sc in last.

(Low Temp)

Row 6: Ch 4, (counts as tr), [dc, hdc, sc, hdc, dc, tr3tog] Repeat [] until 7 sts remain, dc, hdc, sc, hdc, dc, tr2tog.

Tip: before working this row, count your stitches. If you have any more than 180, SC evenly across to get 180.

Row 7: Ch 1, sc in each st across. (180)

(High Temp)

Row 8: Ch 1, sc in each st across. (180)

Row 9: Ch 1 (counts) [sc, hdc, dc, 3tr in next st, dc, hdc] Repeat [ ] across until 5 sts remain. Sc, hdc, dc, 3tr, dc. (30 raised “waves” and a total of 240 sts)

(Low Temp)

Row 10: Ch 1(does not count) [sc in next 2 sts, 3 sc in next st, sc in next 2 sts, sc3tog] Repeat until 7 sts remain. Sc in next 2 sts, 3 sc in next st, sc in next 2 sts, skip st, sc in last st.

Row 11: Ch 1 (counts) sc, [sc in next 2 sts, 3sc in next st, sc in next 2 sts, sc3tog] Repeat [ ] until 6 sts remain. Sc in next 2 sts, 3 sc in next st, sc, sk 1, sc in last.

 

(High Temp)

Row 12: Ch 4, (counts as tr), [dc, hdc, sc, hdc, dc, tr3tog] Repeat [] until 7 sts remain, dc, hdc, sc, hdc, dc, tr2tog.

(Low Temp)

Tip: before working this row, count your stitches. If you have any more than 180, SC evenly across to get 180.

Row 13: Ch 2, hdc in each st across. (180)

Row 14: Ch 2, Hdc in 3rd loop across. (180)

 

Meet the Designer: Ellen Bergmann

This month  I am so pleased to announce that our designer is Ellen Bergmann.
Ellen runs @crochet.by.ellen and is a designer, maker, mom and teacher. Ellen’s classic and romantic designs are some of my favorites! If you don’t follow Ellen on her channels, keep in touch with her here:Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/crochet.by.ellenWebsite: www.crochetbyellen.com Ravelry: https://www.ravelry.com/designers/ellen-bergmannFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/Crochetbyellen/
NAME: Ellen Bergmann

 

LOCATION: Salem, Oregon

 

PLACES YOU’VE LIVED: Bend, Halfway, Corvallis, Eugene, Springfield, Brownsville, Millersburg, Silverton, Salem, Philomath (Oregon)Renton (Washington)

 

TEMPERATURE BLANKET STRATEGY: I used the colors in a wave to symbolize the ups and downs of the temperature as the season changes from winter to spring.

 

DESCRIBE YOUR PERFECT DAY (temperature and activity): My perfect day is one spent outdoors crocheting while the kids play; 70 degrees, sunny, and a slight breeze.

 

FAVORITE SEASON: I used to love Fall, but as a teacher and mom I have fallen in love with Summer.

 

FAVORITE CROCHET STITCH OR TECHNIQUE: Arcade Stitch! I use it in most of my designs.

FAVORITE PROJECT TO DATE: Renata Raglan Top! ( https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/renata-raglan )

 

PEOPLE YOU LIKE TO MAKE THINGS FOR: I love to make for myself, my kids and my home.

 

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST EVER CROCHET PROJECT: I must have been 5 years old and my grandma had me cranking out doily coasters.

HOW DO YOU CRAFT? (WORKSPACE, SETTING, BEVERAGES?): My perfect crafting space is sitting in my living room in my crochet chair watching a true crime drama and sipping a grapefruit LaCroix.

FAVORITE NON YARN HOBBIES OR ACTIVITIES: Gardening, puzzles, sewing, diy home projects, landscaping.

WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION FOR THIS DESIGN?: I wanted to mimic the ups and downs that we experience as the weather changes and seasons transition from winter to spring.

 

 

Just for Fun questions:

Most unusual talent? I can answer random Jeopardy questions correctly.

Favorite book and why? Lately its been You are a Badass by Jen Sincero because it’s the perfect pick-me-up for a mom boss and for those looking to rediscover their self worth and full potential.

Favorite toy as a kid? I loved my stuffed bear, but I was perfectly content to play with rocks and sticks outside 🙂

What was the best year of your life? I’m hoping this will be the best year ever! Having just turned 30, I’m happy to say goodbye to the chaotic 20’s and start living life more laid back and enjoy each moment rather than waiting for life’s next big transition.

Most caring thing anyone has ever done for you? My hubby working full time and giving me the liberty to stay at home with the kids while they are little.

Favorite Beatles Song? Let it Be

What is your favorite memory that happened in March? Working in the backyard with the kids playing. The sun is always my favorite thing about March 🙂

February Pattern

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It’s finally here! Somehow, this short month of February seemed to drag on this year. Maybe it was just long in anticipation of this awesome pattern by Bri from HooknStein

Learn some more about our Guest Designer by reading her feature HERE.

Without further ado, let’s get started on the February Stripe!

Materials:

Two Skeins of Hobby Lobby’s I Love this Yarn in your average high and low colors (determined by your chart)

Total yardage for the stripe is roughly 400 yds

200 yds of High Color

200 yds of Low color

6mm hook (My favorite hooks are from Clover, and I’ve provided an Amazon Affiliate Link should you wish to order one.)

Tapestry Needle: I love these Bates needles that are SO great for weaving in short ends. I promise if you try these, you won’t want to use any others!
Abbreviations:

SC: Single Crochet

DC: Double Crochet

st(s): Stitch(es)

Sk: Skip

CH: Chain

HDC: Half Double Crochet

HDC into the Third Loop (Back):Half Double Crochet into the Third loop. If you need a refresher on this technique, Moogly Blog has a great tutorial

BerryS: Berry Stitch — Stitch explanation and video below

Sl St: Slip Stitch

YO: Yarn Over

Special Stitches:

Berry stitch – YO, insert hook into st, YO draw up loop, YO pull through one loop (3 loops on hook), YO insert into st, YO draw up a loop, YO pull through one loop (5 loops on hook) YO, pull through all 5 loops on hook.

Pattern Notes:

Be sure to count your stitches for each row. Each row should contain 180 stitches. 

Rows starting with CH 1 do not count as a stitch.

Rows starting with Ch 3 do count as a DC and CH 1.

Pattern:

(At the end of each row, turn and begin next row.)

Beginning with the high temp color, and working with the wrong side facing you:

Row 1: CH 1, HDC across. (180 sts)

Row 2: CH 1, HDC in 3rd loop across. (You will be working in the BACK third loop throughout the pattern.)

TIP: AT THIS POINT IN THE PATTERN, PLEASE MKE SURE THAT YOUR TEXTURED THIRD LOOP STITCHES ARE APPEARING ON THE SAME SIDE AS THOSE FOR THE JANUARY STRIPE. IF THEY AREN’T YOU MAY NOT BE WORKING INTO THE BACK THIRD LOOP.

Change to low temp color

Row 3: CH 1, SC across.

Change to high temp color

Row 4: CH 1,  BerrySt in first st, Sl St in next. Repeat *berry st, sl st* across ending with a sl st.

Row 5: CH 1, SC in first st (into the Sl St from previous row), Sl St in next st (the top of the BerrySt). Repeat *SC, Sl St* across ending with a SlSt.

Change to low temp color

Row 6: CH 1, BerrySt in first st, Sl St in next. Repeat *BerrySt, Sl St* across ending with a Sl St.

Row 7: CH 1, SC in first st (Sl St from previous row), Sl St in next st (the top of the BerrySt). Repeat *SC, Sl St* across ending with a Sl St

Row 8: CH 1,  HDC across.

Row 9: CH 3 (counts as first DC and CH 1), *sk next st, Dc, ch 1* across, DC in remaining st. 

Change to high temp color

Row 10: CH 1, SC in first 2 sts, DC in the sk st from previous row. Repeat *SC, DC in sk st* across, ending with a SC in the 2nd CH of turning CH. (See photo below for placement of DC)

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Row 11: CH 3 (counts as first DC and CH 1), Repeat *sk next st, DC, CH 1* across, DC in remaining st.

Change to low temp color

Row 12: CH 1, SC in first two sts, DC in the sk st from previous row. Repeat *SC, DC in sk st* across ending with a SC in the 2nd ch of turning CH.

Row 13: CH 1, HDC across.

Row 14: CH 1, HDC in 3rd loop across.

Change to high temp color

Row 15: CH 3 (counts as first dc and ch 1), Repeat *sk next st, DC, CH 1* across, DC in remaining st.

Row 16: CH 1, turn, SC in first two sts, DC in the sk st from previous row. Repeat *SC, DC in sk st* across ending with a SC in the 2nd CH of turning CH.

Row 17: CH 1, HDC across.

Row 18: CH 1, HDC in 3rd loop across.

Congrats! Now you’ve completed the full February stripe of the #StressFreeTempBlanket

CONTEST:

Throughout the month of MARCH (2019), share your work on your temperature blanket and be entered to win a $10 Hobby Lobby Giftcard (and some other goodies). Winner will be announced on March 31.  The most creative photo will win! To Enter:

  1. Take and Share a photo of your Temp Blanket and share it on your public Instagram feed.
  2. Tag both @TeaganandLu and @Hooknstein so we can both see your gorgeous stripe and enter you in the giveaway.
  3. Share in your stories as well with the hashtag #StressFreeTempBlanket (and tag @TeaganandLu) for an additional entry!

Meet the Designer: Bri Holdstein

This month, the talented designer who brings us our stripe is Briana Holdstein. You can find her on Instagram as @Hooknstein and on Facebook here. Learn a little more about her here:
Briana'sFamily-98

NAME: Briana Holdstein, but you can call me Bri!

LOCATION: Auburn, Maine

PLACES YOU’VE LIVED: Born, raised and reside in southern Maine

TEMPERATURE BLANKET STRATEGY:

My strategy was to challenge myself with using as many coordinating colors as I could that were already in my yarn stash. (I only had to buy 4 colors!)

DESCRIBE YOUR PERFECT DAY (temperature and activity):

My perfect day would definitely be a day that is warm enough to open up all the windows and not need to put a sweater on. I like to be able to walk around barefoot and wear my Birks without socks.

FAVORITE SEASON: Fall, hands down.

FAVORITE CROCHET STITCH OR TECHNIQUE:

I’m alllllll about that half-double crochet! As for technique, I love working in the round, and the less assembly the better!

FAVORITE PROJECT TO DATE:

There’s too many to pick only one! If I must choose though, it would be any of the mandala’s I’ve made. I really like being able to display what I made!

PEOPLE YOU LIKE TO MAKE THINGS FOR:

Everyone! If you’ve been following me, then you know I love to make things for Charlotte, but I really love to make things for everyone. Especially if we’ve just met. There is nothing more inspiring than someone who doesn’t have anything handmade from me.

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WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST EVER CROCHET PROJECT:

Shoe laces! My mom first taught me, and I made shoe laces to practice my chaining. After that my first real project was a magic potholder that my mom still uses!

HOW DO YOU CRAFT? (WORKSPACE, SETTING, BEVERAGES?):

I craft everywhere. On the couch, the bed, the floor, waiting while the kids bathe, while the noodles cook. My favorite space is my corner of the living room, I have my half of the couch, a side table (where you’ll always find a bottle of water, a notebook and a pen), my shelves of yarn and everything fiber related I could need.

FAVORITE NON YARN HOBBIES OR ACTIVITIES:

Baking! I love to try new recipes and collecting kitchen gadgets. I also enjoy all the other crafts as well, I’ve been doing more drawing, painting, and beading in my spare time. I also enjoy reading, and recently took up yoga and meditation.

WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION FOR THIS DESIGN?:

Honestly, I didn’t have much inspiration for this month’s stripe. Everything I tried to use for inspiration didn’t work so I looked for new stitch combinations I hadn’t tried that I thought would make an interesting texture.

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Fun questions:

Most unusual talent?

I have a knack for not being able to replicate a recipe twice hahahaa. Even my own cookie recipe doesn’t come out the same every time.

Favorite book and why?

Ahhhh! There is so many, can I choose a few and a series? Ultimately, I love The Women’s Murder Club by James Patterson. I’ve read every novel as he’s released them!

Favorite toy as a kid?

I don’t remember having a favorite toy, I remember being crafty, and that I really liked to make beady buddies.

What was the best year of your life?

I’m not sure it’s happened yet. I’ve had many good moments like getting my nursing license in 2011, getting married in 2012, and having my kids in 2013 and 2016, but for every wonder filled moment there were also many challenged ones.

Most caring thing anyone has ever done for you?

There is not enough room to describe the amount of caring things that have been done for me. Whether they choked down a test recipe, smiled at a terrible first try, or lent an ear for the fiftieth complaint about the same thing, the kindness is insurmountable.

IMG_6518

Favorite Beatles Song?

I don’t actually know many Beatles songs but I would have to say my favorite would be the songs “When I’m Sixty Four” or “Yellow Submarine,” because I can see and hear my mom singing them in the car.

What is your favorite memory that happened in February?

My favorite memory in February would be getting married. Kevin and I were planning a September wedding, and then one day I had enough and decided I didn’t want to plan anymore, I wanted to elope! So on February 29, 2012 Kevin and I said our I do’s in our jeans and coats and have only celebrated one actual anniversary since we’ve been married! This year we celebrate 7 years of marriage!

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It’s January 300th

Our first stripe is FINALLY here!

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Where I am from, in the Midwest, we can pretty well count on January temperatures being cold, sometimes with long stretches of below zero temperatures. So, you can imagine my surprise when January 2019 started off with unseasonably warm temperatures (up to the 60s some days) and then drifted down to below zero highs, and dipped even lower in the last few days to historic lows of -20 actual — and -50 with the wind chill. Ah yes, the Midwest. We have it all!

I always laugh at the never-ending-month-of-January memes and jokes, because January here just ISN’T pleasant (weather-wise). But my family did have some pleasantness this January. We spent time with family, we went on a trip to New York to see MORE family, my oldest got to experience her first true winter break from school, AND a whole bunch of snow days. I hope as you are stitching away at this inaugural Temperature Blanket stripe, you are reminded of all the pleasantness that January had to offer!

 

Design Inspiration:

The design below is inspired by the textures that I fell in love with when diving into learning more about crochet. I remember the first time I stitched a bobble, I could hardly believe yarn could be manipulated that way. I’m all about the simple pleasures in stitching and the whimsical properties that yarn can take with just a little extra love and attention.

I hope you are able to stitch your January highs and lows away and enjoy the simple but fun texture of this stripe.

Materials:

Two Skeins of Hobby Lobby’s I Love this Yarn in your average high and low colors (determined by your chart)

Total yardage for the stripe is roughly 335 yds

237 yds of High Color

98 yds of Low color

6mm hook (My favorite hooks are from Clover, and I’ve provided an Amazon Affiliate Link should you wish to order one.)

Tapestry Needle: I love these Bates needles that are SO great for weaving in short ends. I promise if you try these, you won’t want to use any others!

Abbreviations:

SC: Single Crochet

CH: Chain

HDC: Half Double Crochet

HDC into the Third Loop (Back):Half Double Crochet into the Third loop. If you’ve not done this technique, Moogly Blog has a great tutorial

B: Bobble — Stitch explanation below

 

Important Notes:

  • There are lots of ways to carry these colors to hide yarn ends as you go. I’ve added a tutorial video below (and to my IG TV) to show you just how I like to approach making each of these bobbles so that the color change is concealed. (Please visit www.instagram.com/TeaganandLu  to view it on IG)
  • You will break the yarn of the contrasting color (the low temp) at the end of each bobble stitch row where it appears.
  • CH1 at the beginning of new rows does not count as a stitch.
  • CH2 at the beginning of new rows typically DOES count as a stitch, unless otherwise noted.
  • Gauge for a 4 x 4 in SC is 13 stitches and 16 rows. 

The Bobbles and Color Changes: A Tutorial

*In the following photos the HIGH TEMP is represented in the Navy Blue color and the LOW in the Light Green color*

In this pattern, a BOBBLE is formed by the following steps:

 

  • Using the LOW TEMPERATURE COLOR, *YO, pull up a loop, YO, draw through two loops* repeat four more times (there will be six loops on the hook).
  • YO using BOTH colors (held together).

 

Color Changes are best made using the following steps:

 

  • Change from HIGH TEMP color to LOW COLOR on the last step of a DCIMG_5807
  • Bobble in LOW COLOR while working OVER the HIGH TEMP color to conceal it.IMG_5808
  • On the last step of the bobble, pull through all loops on the hook with BOTH colors.IMG_5809
  • For Remaining DC stitches, work OVER the LOW TEMP color.IMG_5811

 

Video Tutorial:

 

Pattern

Begin by Chaining 181 in the Low Temp color. (All rows should contain 180 sts as a final stitch count.)

*You may also choose to use FDSC instead (180 sts)

Row 1: Working into the 2nd CH  from hook, SC in the Low Temperature Color. Ch 1  Turn. (180 sts)

Row 2: SC across in Low Temperature color, switching to High Temp on the turning chain, CH 2 and Turn.  (180 sts)

Row 3: HDC across (CH 2 turning chain DOES count as a stitch), CH 2 and Turn.

Row 4:  Continuing in High Temperature, HDC in third loop across. CH2 and Turn.

Row 5:  (Continuing in High Temperature) HDC Across, CH 2 and Turn.

Row 6: (Continuing in High Temperature) HDC in the third loop across. CH2 and Turn.

Row 7: (Continuing in High Temperature) HDC across, CH 2 (counts as a DC) and turn.

 

(See color change tutorial for rows 8-10)

 

Row 8: DC 2 in High Temp Color, *Bobble in Low Temp color,  DC 3 in High Temp Color, * repeat ** to end(ending in 1DC). CH1 and Turn.

Row 9:  HDC across in High Temp Color. CH2 (Counts as a DC) and Turn.

Row 10: *Bobble in Low Temp Color, DC 3* Repeat ** across ending with 2 DC. CH1 And Turn

Row 11: In High Temp Color, SC across. CH2 and turn.

Row 12: HDC across in High Temp color and turn.

Row 13:CH 1 HDC across in High Temp color and turn.

Row 14:CH 1 HDC across in Third Loop In High Temp color. Turn.

Row 15:CH 1 HDC across in High Temp color. Turn.

Row 16:CH 1 HDC across in Third Loop in High Temp Color, switch to Low Temp Color CH1 and turn.

Rows 17-18: SC across in Low Temp Color, *CH1 and Turn* Omit ** for final row.

Weave in your ends, and this stripe is complete!

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January: Meet the Designer

So, each month of the Temperature Blanket project, I plan to do a feature on each of the designers. It’s a little awkward that the first month’s designer is ME, but here goes nothing!

 

My Little Family and I exactly a Year ago

NAME: Theresa Denham (most call me Therese, in real life)

LOCATION: Normal, Illinois

PLACES YOU’VE LIVED: I’ve lived in Illinois most of my life with a short stint in Allendale, Michigan. I was born and raised in Chicago, so I’m a city girl at heart but I would say I am adjusting to small town life better than expected.

TEMPERATURE BLANKET STRATEGY: I’ll be making one blanket in grayscale for this current year and testing designer patterns by using the data from 2010 in the towns we lived with a Jewel Tone palette. This is significant because it was the year my husband and I got married. We will be celebrating 9 years married this year! I also plan to calculate the data myself so I can use the temperatures from the places we travel this year!

Some favorites from our wedding in 2010

DESCRIBE YOUR PERFECT DAY (temperature and activity): I love a nice warm day where the kiddos can play outside while the husband, pups and I relax (me with some yarn, of course). I love getting outside at our favorite garden in town and taking our time enjoying things! It’s a total plus to treat myself to some GOOD coffee and take our super pups for a walk.

Enjoying our favorite garden in Normal, IL

FAVORITE SEASON: Fall! I love the layers, the knits and handmades and all the nights out by and outdoor fire! A close second is early summer, when the above answer can be my day!

FAVORITE CROCHET STITCH OR TECHNIQUE: I’m a HDC all day kind of girl, but I also am obsessed with textures that don’t look like crochet. I love the Lemonpeel Stitch for that!

FAVORITE PROJECT TO DATE: I once made a little Cape for my daughter that was just SO cute. I made it big so she can still wear it today, and it’s top down so I intend to add some length as she grows out of it. I also made a little cabled cardigan for my sweet son when he was a newborn. It fit him for a literal day, but I just loved making it for him and he looked SO cute in it.

PEOPLE YOU LIKE TO MAKE THINGS FOR: I love making for my kiddos and myself and anyone who truly appreciates the magic of handmade items. I think they are SO special!

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST EVER PROJECT: I made leashes for my hundreds of TY Beanie Babies as a kid. My mom and dad STILL have them at their house and my kids play with them when we visit. I made them with Lion Brand Jiffy.

My sweet girl playing with my childhood beanie babies with leashes

HOW DO YOU CRAFT? (WORKSPACE, SETTING, BEVERAGES?): I love being cozy on my couch with some warm tea or coffee. There is often Netflix happening alongside my crafting, or Spotify playlists that are soft and soothing!

FAVORITE NON YARN HOBBIES OR ACTIVITIES: I love yoga but I don’t do it enough these days! I love crafts of any sort and spoiling my kids and dogs to a ridiculous degree.

WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION FOR THIS DESIGN?: I’m a sappy lady, so get ready. When I was pregnant with my daughter and before we knew she was a girl, I started a Jewel Tone baby blanket that was ALL bobbles. I loved it. But once we found out she was a girl, I abandoned it to make all things pink! I later turned the abandoned blankie into a cowl I wear with pride all the time. I chose to use the bobbles as an homage to that project.

Fun questions:

Most unusual talent?

I’ve perfected the art of eating corn on the cob without getting it stuck in my teeth. Ya know, important stuff like that.

Favorite book and why?

GOODNESS. This is a very hard question for me, but I always return to “The Great Gatsby.” Lots of people HATE this book but I have always loved it. I love the descriptions of the era and parties and for some reason I LOVE the realistic portrait of really flawed people. It’s a messy and kind of sad book but I can’t help but love it.

Favorite toy as a kid?

I had a Teddy Ruxpin toy that I took everywhere and loved more than life!

Best year of your life?

There have been many, but I think our first year of marriage (engagement, new house, new job, new pup) was the most exciting for me! The year was 2010

Most caring thing anyone has ever done for you?

I live a distance away from my family (not too far, but still a hike), I have cherished the times that people have shown up for me unexpectedly in harder times. My sister Ang, especially, has the best way of knowing when I need her and she just shows up. It’s my favorite bond.

Favorite Beatles Song?

“Here Comes the Sun” it’s cheesy and not the BEST Beatles song, but it’s my go-to to put me in a good mood!

What is your favorite memory that happened in JANUARY?

We got engaged on the beach (well, in our hotel room overlooking the beach because it was unseasonably cold there!) in January 2010. It was such a special memory!

After getting engaged!
The year we got married… spoiler alert, we do not look like this anymore. Ha!

 

FACEBOOK CHALLENGE:

 

If you are part of the Temperature Blanket Facebook Group, choose one of these questions to answer on the page so we can all get to know each other!  Post one of these questions in the Facebook group and answer it in the comments. If someone else has already answered the question on the page, add your answer to the Comments of their post!

  • What is a book that transformed your life?
  • What character in a children’s book did you most identify with as a child?
  • What was your favorite toy as a child?
  • What do you feel most grateful for?
  • What do you love most about being a part of this craft community?
  • What animal would you most like to be?
  • What place/activity/memory best captures “summer” for you as a child? How did it make you feel?
  • “Freedom lies in being bold,” said poet Robert Frost. Talk about a time you were bold.
  • Talk about the most difficult transition you’ve experienced in your lifetime.
  • The poet Maya Angelou once said, “If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” What do you think she meant by this? Have you ever had to do this?
  • Who is your Celebrity Crush?
  • Finish this sentence: “Everyone knows that my worst habit is…”
  • What is your favorite family tradition? Why?
  • OR write your own conversations starter to share on the page!

The Easy Silence Cabled Baby Beanie

I designed this simple, cabled hat when I decided to contribute to the American Heart Association’s Little Hats, Big Hearts campaign, which raises awareness for congenital heart defects. I’ve included both a preemie and newborn size for this simple cabled hat. I hope you can use this pattern to contribute to the cause!

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Note from the Designer: The purpose of publishing this pattern is to inspire you to make these teeny hats for a worthy cause! Specifically, I will be sending my hats to the American Heart Association’s Little Hats, Big Hearts campaign, but I encourage you to explore some other giving opportunities, too.

Ideally, the hats I make will make it to the heads of newborn preemies and babies in an effort to raise awareness for congenital heart defects. If you know me at all, you know that my MOST important and fulfilling job is that of being a mom to two precious littles.

I’ll never ever forget the feelings, early in motherhood that I was lucky to have: to look down at my child and feel the rest of the world’s worries just melt away. I still feel like that was a gift given to me by my kids. As an anxious person by nature, that sense of calm and bonding and just LOVE meant the world to me then and now.

Every time I know someone is welcoming a new baby, I think of THOSE moments and I just look forward to it for them. Even if that moment is fleeting, I always hope that they get it. It’s a miracle moment. I think that feeling is captured so well in some excerpts of the song “Easy Silence” by the Dixie Chicks–hence the name.

I imagine that these little hats will go to some families who will be lucky enough to feel the world melt away as they bond with their new babies. Enjoy this hat, and I hope you are able to feel some Easy Silence while making it.

-Therese

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The Materials

26 (45) yds Bulky (5 weight) yarn in a Red Shade

(Pictured is Deborah Norville Serenity Bulky Yarn in Berry Burst )

US 10 Circular knitting needles (11” circular)

Tapestry Needle

DPN or Cable Needle

 

Abbreviations

K: Knit

P: Purl

CO: Cast On — Long Tail Cast on is Recommended

CF: Cable stitch holding stitches in the front

CB:Cable stitch holding stitches in the back

K2tog: Knit two stitches together

BL: Back Loop

 

Notes:

Cables are made over 6 stitches.

How to cable:  Place first three stitches on a cable needle or DPN and hold in front or back based on what the pattern calls for, K3, K3 from Cable needle

 

Pattern directions appear with stitch counts in this format:  Preemie Size (Newborn Size)

 

Pattern

CO 32 (42) and join in the round

Round 1-5: K1, P1 around.

Rounds 6-11: K8 (13), P2, K6, P2, K14 (19).

Round 12: K8 (13), P2, CF, P2, K14 (19).

Rounds 13- 20: Repeat Round 6.

Round 21: K8 (13), P2, CB, P2, K14 (19).

Round 22-24: K8 (13), P2, K6, P2, K14 (19).

 

For Preemie:

Round 25: K6, K2tog BL, P2, K2, K2tog BL, K2, P2, K2, K2tog BL, *K6, K2tog BL, Repeat from *to end of Round.

Round 26 – 27: *K6, K2tog BL* Repeat around.

 

For Newborn:

Round 25:K11, K2tog BL, P2, K2, K2tog BL, K2, P2, K2, K2tog BL, *K6, K2tog BL, Repeat from *to end of Round.

Round 26 – 29: *K6, K2tog BL* Repeat around.

Finishing

 

Weave in all ends and wet or steam block.

 

I would LOVE to see your finished hats on Social Media. Be sure to tag me, TeaganAndLu on Instagram and Facebook and use the hashtag #easysilencebeanie

2019 Stress Free Temperature Blanket

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There is something about a new year that makes me want to tackle ALL of the things. I want to be more organized, more efficient, more adventurous. There is something totally hypnotic about that feeling!

But, I’ll be honest, half way through a Midwestern January, that feeling tends to fade a little bit. My intensity for all those “be better” rallying calls just…falls off. For this reason, I have gotten into the habit of making my resolutions or goals VERY achievable.

One year, I resolved to keep my car clean and free of all the coffee mugs that just somehow end up living in there. I kid you not, another year I resolved to wear cute socks every day and another to keep my nails done. We are talking about simple tasks that I could incorporate into a really busy life and serve as just the tiniest little reminder that I COULD keep it all together. It was a little grounding reminder that no matter how hectic things were, I could exert a little control. Who knew cute socks had such power?! (As an offshoot, somehow achieving these teeny tiny goals helped give me the confidence to set bigger goals, but that’s a post for another day.)

Also each year, I think of making a temperature blanket, marking the whole year while recording it with crochet. It’s the BEST idea. I love it. The chart, the practice, the whole thing. But, that is beginning of the year Therese talking. The one who can tackle anything and doesn’t get overwhelmed or tired or… just done. The realistic Therese gets to day 4 of the new year wherein I’ve worked, grocery shopped, mommed, wifed, dog momed and my only interest is sitting down with some tea to BE. It’s so easy to get behind with an idea like this one. So, ladies and gents, I am applying my teeny tiny resolutions idea to the Temperature Blanket and I am inviting you to join me!

The Scoop:

I’ve teamed up with some of my favorite designers (and they are probably yours too) to offer a MONTHLY temperature blanket idea that is low on stress, low on commitment, but high in fun and flexibility. Here is what I have come up with:

  • The Blanket is a Throw Size (60 by 75 inches) at completion. But we will work a vertical stripe at the END of each month. (Each stripe is 60″ wide and 6.25″ tall)
  • We will use just TWO temperatures (two colors) for each month that correspond to the average high temperature and average low temperature for the month. (This is specific to your locale and your very own color scheme.)
  • YOU get to choose your color palette so the end result fits into wherever you envision it.
  • Each stripe will be designed by a different crochet designer from our community, so the product will be a very cool sampler blanket that you can take your time with and be proud of.  (I have a VERY few spots left for the year so if you are interested in designing one, hit me up!)
  • Can’t commit to working on it every day? NO PROBLEM. Each design will be revealed for free on the Teagan and Lu blog for FREE at the end of the month. This means that you have a WHOLE month to work your section before the next one debuts.

What Ifs and FAQs:

What colors and yarn does it use?

You can choose! Download the worksheet and choose your own colors. As designers, we have committed to using Hobby Lobby I Love This Yarn so we can pretty easily keep the gauge for the project the same (seriously, stress free stitching over here!) but you can choose whatever you like. The patterns for each stripe will be written for worsted weight and a 6mm hook. (Or whatever you need to reach gauge determined by the first month’s stripe.)

What if I live in an area where there aren’t drastic temperature changes?

Easy Peasy. The original key for color ranges is set in mostly 10 degree increments. If you live in a place that experiences pretty consistent temperature ranges (lucky you) you can just adjust to make those increments smaller (so instead of 10 degrees, do 5 or whatever would help you utilize the color chart best).

What happens if the High and Low temps are in the same temp range?

As designers, we are using two color colorwork in each sections but we are ALSO creating sections with fun and interesting textures, so even if it’s worked in all one color, it will look interesting!

What if I can’t commit to this every day?

NO PROBLEM. Each design will be revealed for free on the Teagan and Lu blog for FREE at the end of the month. This means that you have a WHOLE month to work your section before the next one debuts.

How do I find out the high and low temps?

Two ways, you can take them down each day by hand and do a little math to figure out the average (if this scratches your itch for something to commit to daily, go for it) OR you can use a government maintained weather site like weather.gov or the National Weather Service website or US Climate Data Website (for my Americans) to get that data for your area.

I’m all in! How do I stay connected?

The Teagan and Lu blog will be the hub for this project! You can expect features here on all the designers involved and free patterns posted here for each of the stripes. Please subscribe to my updates AND sign up for my newsletter so you can stay informed! I’m also really excited to feature your temperature blankets on the blog and my Instagram! Use the hashtag #StressFreeTempBlanket on Instagram and tag me so I can show off your work!

Temp Blanket badgedone

How should I get started:

  1. Download and fill out the Temperature Blanket worksheet (below) to pick your colors for the blanket.
  2. Go Get your Yarn!
  3. Spread the word on Social Media by posting this sticker (above) to your Feed or Stories to get others interested in the project! Feel free to follow me on Instagram
  4. Stay tuned! I’ll be debuting the pattern for the first stripe (designed by me!) on the last day of each month in my newsletter and blog! Make sure you are signed up to receive my email updates! (See the form Below!)
  5. Be sure to investigate resources for your area that can give you the temperature data you need. It may be necessary for you to keep track of the data on your own. For instance, I live about 2 hours outside of Chicago, and our local weather service collects data in a town that is about 40 minutes South of where I live. There IS data for average highs and lows available for THAT location, but not my town specifically. It’s similar enough, that I am choosing to use that resource, but if you want something that is accurate to your location, make sure you know whether or not it will be available to you at the end of the month. (Phew. That was a long one!)

Thanks so much for all the enthusiasm you all have shown for this project! I couldn’t be more excited about it! Here’s to a colorful and stress free year!

Want to receive Emails  about the Temperature Blanket (and more news from Teagan and Lu)? Sign up here!

http://eepurl.com/gaA81v

 

The Teagan Chunky Throw

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Calling all Knitters! I think you will just love making this super chunky and luxe looking chunky throw. I’ve decided to offer the pattern, free here on my blog.

This pattern uses one of my FAVORITE yarns, Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick and Quick. As the name would indicate, it’s thick, makes for quick work and really holds up well to wear over time.

This pattern is written for a throw/lapghan size, but is easily adaptable to other sizes, so long as your initial cast on is an odd number.

If you prefer an Ad free version of this pattern, you can find the inexpensive PDF HERE 

Offering PDF versions helps me recoup my costs so I can continue to bring you free patterns here on my site. Thank you for your support! Also, please find me on Instagram at TeaganandLu so you can get updates on new patterns and collabs!

Happy  Knitting!

The Teagan Chunky Throw

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Materials

About 1040 yds of Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick and quick in the color of your choice (or any weight 6 wool blend yarn)

Tapestry Needle

19mm Knitting Needles (straight or circular)

Abbreviations:

CO- Cast On

k- Knit

p- Purl

Special Notes:

Important – The fabric for this knit blanket is created by holding two strands of 6 weight yarn together. I suggest pulling yarn from the center from two skeins at a time

While gauge is mentioned, it is natural and expected for “Chunky” knits to grow, relax and stretch over time. The gauge mentioned will yield a throw that’s initial dimensions are 44 x 52”

This is an approachable and simple knitting pattern that makes a big impact! I consider it a beginner pattern.

Gauge:

5 stitches by 8 rows = 4” swatch in Stockinette

 

Pattern

CO 55
holding two strands of yarn together

 

Rows 1-4: *k1,p1 repeat across ending in k.

Row 5: k across
Row 6: p across
Rows 7-14: repeat rows 5 and 6  four times.

Rows 15 – 98: Repeat rows 1-14  6 additional times.

Rows 99- 102 End by repeating Rows 1-4.

Bind off  in k1, p1 pattern and weave in ends.

 

This pattern is the property of Teagan and Lu (Theresa Denham (c) 2018). Do not share, reproduce or republish this pattern without express, written consent from the designer.

 


 

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