Monthly Archives: August 2014

Pinspiration – Local Love

You know how much I love social media.  Facebook was my first love (well, I did have brief fling with Myspace back in the day), and now we’ve evolved into an old married couple, comfortable and predictable.  Twitter and I had a brief but intense relationship until one day I realised it just wasn’t for me and walked away.  These days I’m in love with Instagram.  I love the photos by people I’ve never met and I love the way it has brought some wonderful talented photographers into my life.  And the yarn porn!  OMG, it’s an addiction.

But through it all is Pinterest. Pinterest is my Great Love.  And Pinterest loves me too.  Over the last year, it has driven more traffic to my website than all other social media combined.  Isn’t that mad?  And now the analytics have improved, it’s incredible to see how far the reach actually goes.

What I also love is that with Pinterest you can engage easily with beautiful images and projects from people all over the world; the concept of Six Degrees of Separation is alive and well on Pinterest.  Last week a friend told me about a project of mine that appeared on her Facebook feed via a friend that had pinned one of my images, all the way across the world in Melbourne!

But today, I want to share some Local Love.  Some designers that I’ve come across via the Internet, and since had the enormous pleasure of meeting in person.

Flower Stole by creJJtion

Flower Stole by creJJtion

I love everything that Maaike makes.  I love her style and I love her colour choices. I love her ethos and how her projects make me want to be a more conscious crocheter.

Win a Furls Yarn bowl on acreativebeing.com

Win a Furls Yarn bowl on acreativebeing.com

Wink is a blogger I discovered about a year ago via the tuts+ website.  I was looking to make a rug (which never eventuated), and she created a tutorial for one on the site.  I spent the rest of the day devouring her website.

Happy in Red's love affair with Istanbul's yarn district

Happy in Red’s love affair with Istanbul’s yarn district

Even though Esther is a crochet blogger, it wasn’t via crochet that I first came across her work – it was thanks to this bag that she designed.  I love it!

Haak Maar Raak's Vintage Ripple Blanket

Haak Maar Raak’s Vintage Ripple Blanket

I can’t get enough of this vintage ripple blanket.  Kirsten is a blogger that I only recently discovered while I was expanding my blog horizon into Dutch language blogs.  Both Kirsten and Esther write in Dutch and English, a feat I’m yet to attempt!

Canadutch's Lopi cardi

Canadutch’s Lopi cardi

You already know how much I love Tammy.  She knits as well as she crochets, and she’s just generally awesome.

Stash Storage

A couple of weeks ago I shared an image of my creative workspace, and how it is slowly taking over our living room and this last week I needed to find a colour for a project I’m working on and this happened:

Yarn pouring out of the cubpoard

It sparked a curiosity into how we all store our yarn.  I’ve of course seen a million Pinterest Perfect images, but how do we store it in real life, and not just for taking pictures for our #socalledfacebooklife.  So I’m sharing mine.

Here’s where I store my yarn:

stashcupboard

Isn’t it just a beautiful cupboard?  I bought it from a friend with the intention of moving it upstairs to be a wardrobe for my daughter now that she has graduated from baby furniture, but it’s so heavy and a bit of a tight squeeze to get up the stairs that after an argument on the first morning my husband and I abandoned the idea.  It’s a deep corner cupboard and I just love it.

Meanwhile, here’s what my stash looked like last week:

stash1 Not particularly organised, is it.  Every few months I go through and sort it all out, but as the collection grows (and grows) I don’t seem to be able to keep on top of it.

I had a bit of a tidy up last week, so here’s how it looks today:

stash2 Better.  Not great, and not ideal, but better.  Ideally I’m going to update an upstairs storage room into a craft/escape room.  Right now it’s my husband’s computer room, but he rarely uses it any more, so I’d like to add shelving and a nice workspace for us both to be able to use.  It’s one of those never-ending discussions though.  He has a desk that was his fathers and made by his grandfather that he’s very attached to, but I hate.  Not because it’s ugly, but because it doesn’t fit the space *at all* but he won’t part with it.

So until the desk issue is resolved, here’s how my yarn will have to stay.  I store it by brand and weight.  I love the pretty pictures of the colours all being together, but I need to know how much of one yarn I have.  Everything is in zip lock bags and perched on top of one another in the cupboard, ready to topple at any moment.  Kind of like my life, I guess.

How do you store your yarn?  I’d love to see, post some pics to my Facebook page!  Do you have any ideas how I can improve this, bearing in mind that it’s a corner cupboard, so is a triangular shape?

Jasper V Pattern – All the Sizes!! (S, M, L, XL)

Here it is!  The biggest and most daunting crochet project I have ever undertaken, completely finished!

Here it is!  The Jasper V is available in sizes S through to XL, all Free!  #scheepjes #scheepjeswol #stonewashed

I have to say, I’m a bit sad that it’s all over and I can move on to focus on the next big project, but I’m so relieved to have all the sizes worked out and ready to go.

What I have done for the smaller sizes is to update the diagram only.  I’m not re-writing the entire pattern; instead that can be used as a guide to get started, and the diagram has all the stitch and row counts, which is the clearest description.  The edging is so straight forward that I feel what is written in the original pattern will get you through.

Remember though, if you need any help at all, please just contact me.  I’ve added a contact form below so you can do it painlessly.

1407176460.178020.IMG_8114

Here we go!

The original pattern post with all the written instructions is found at this link.

The attachments with the different sizes are all attached to this post as pdf files.  You will need a program such as Adobe Reader (or similar) to be able to read this file.

Jasper V Size Small

Jasper V Size Medium

Jasper V Size Large

Jasper V Size XL

Please, please do note: the only size that has been tested by me is the XL – the smaller sizes have been created using mathematical magic and are not tested.  I’m relying on your help for that!  If you’re making the top and it feels like it will be a little tight, please don’t panic – the stitch has a lot of give; a good 5-10 cm! Think about the yardage of the smaller sizes, you won’t need as much as I did making the XL size (about 1100 metres).

I do value any and all feedback, but please don’t be mean.  And remember above all that this is a free pattern – together we can improve it.

This is an original design by Nerissa Muijs.  Please do not reproduce this pattern or sell this pattern as your own work.  Please share it on your social networks, linking it back to the original source.  Please also feel free to sell items made from this pattern and please credit me by linking my website: missneriss.com.  All images are the property of Nerissa Muijs, and if you would like to repost the originals, please send me a message to ask my permission before the fact.

Most importantly though, please share pictures of your work with me, by adding them to Ravelry or to my Facebook page, or even via an email.

Enjoy!

Need help, or want to ask a question, go for it here:

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Jasper V Pattern – XL

 

The Jasper V!  I loved all the ideas so much that everyone came up with, but one that stuck with me was the use of Jasper and V-Neck.  In the end it was simple and the Jasper V has been born!

Today I’m sharing the pattern for the XL size with you.  This is the first garment pattern I’ve written and stay tuned for more sizes.  I just wanted to get this out to you as soon as I possibly could!

So without further ado, let’s get to it!  For any questions, please send me an email using the contact form and I’ll get back to you to assist, OK?  If you find mistakes, please do the same.  Because it’s a free pattern, I’m the only tester so I’m relying on your help – thanks in advance!!

You can also find a printer version right here:

Printer Friendly Version of the Jasper V

This pattern assumes that you know crochet basics, like Chain, Single Crochet, Half Double Crochet and Double Crochet stitches.  You will also need to know how to do the Foundation Single Crochet stitch (FSC).  If you’ve never seen an FSC, you can find a great tutorial video here.  Alongside the FSC, you will also need to know how to do the Mesh Stitch, which is essentially Double Crochet, chain 1, skip 1, Double Crochet into the next stitch.

To keep a beautiful clean straight edge going up the sides, I use this brilliant technique that I found; I recommend you use it too.

All measurements are in centimetres and crochet terms are US based.

This is an original design by Nerissa Muijs.  Please do not reproduce this pattern or sell this pattern as your own work.  Please share it on your social networks, linking it back to the original source.  Please also feel free to sell items made from this pattern and please credit me by linking my website: missneriss.com.  All images are the property of Nerissa Muijs, and if you would like to repost the originals, please send me a message to ask my permission before the fact.

Jasper V - free pattern size XL on missneriss.com #scheepjes #scheepjeswol #stonewashed #jasper

Written Instructions

Abbreviations

FSC:    Foundation Single Crochet
SC:      Single Crochet
HDC:   Half Double Crochet
DC:      Double Crochet
CH:      Chain
SK:      Skip 1 stitch
MS:     Mesh Stitch

Gauge

21 stitches across x 9 rows high = 10cm2

Materials

  • Scheepjeswol Stone Washed (or similar 4 ply/sock) yarn – 1080 metres
  • 5mm hook; or hook to obtain gauge. I crochet tightly, so consider this when making your gauge swatch, which you will need.
  • Tapestry needle to sew in ends and seams.
  • Stitch markers.
  • Measuring tape to ensure that the sizing is correct for your body.
  • Pins (either ordinary pins, or even stitch markers will do).

 Size

This pattern is for a size XL garment.  The finished circumference (bust/hip measurement) is 110cm (43 inches) around and the length from top to bottom is 68cm (27inches).

Instructions

Row 1:  FSC x 105 (55cm)
Row 2:  CH 3 (counts as first DC and chain), skip 1 stitch, (DC, CH1, SK1) x 50, DC in the last.  Turn.
Row 3:  CH3, SK1, (DC, CH1, SK1) x 50
Repeat row 3 until your work is 43 cm long (41 rows).

Begin the sleeves:
Chain 35 (18cm), tie off and cut the yarn.
Re-attach at the other side, chain 37.  DC into the 3rd CH, CH1, SK1, DC into the next.  Repeat across to the last stitch of the other sleeve (179 stitches, or about 90cm end to end).  Repeat this row for a total of 3 rows and then start the V-neck.

Mark the middle stitch and crochet to the 2nd DC before the marker.  This becomes the decrease.  CH3 and turn (this counts as DC and SK1).  DC into the next DC stitch.  Crochet across to the edge of the sleeve.  CH3, turn.  Repeat that row, always stopping at the top of the CH 3 from the previous row, for 24 rows (23cm).  Tie off and attach yarn to the other sleeve, repeating the action again.

Once the V is complete, do not tie off.  Instead, MS across to the centre edge of the V.  Chain 48, attach at the first stitch on the other sided of the V and MS to the far edge of the sleeve.  This is now the beginning of the back of the top.

Repeat the MS rows for 26 rows in total; essentially the reverse of the front without the V.  After 26 rows, tie off and re-attach the yarn 37 stitches in.  CH3, SK1, (DC, CH1, SK1) x 50 for 105 stitches, turn and repeat for 41 rows (or 43cm).

Now the body of the top is complete and it is time to create the edging and sew it all together.  Lie the top flat, so that the front and back edges all line up, pin the top together and whip stitch it up both sides and under the sleeves.  Try it on and admire your reflection.  You look awesome.

For the edging, Attach the yarn at the join on one side of the bottom of the top and HDC all the way round (210 in total).  Join, CH2 and repeat.  The final row will be a SC row, just to firm it up and prevent excessive stretch.

The sleeves follow much the same rule.  Join at the seam and HDC around. HDC in the side of each stitch, and also in each space between rows.  Repeat the HDC row, then complete a SC row to finish it off. Do the same for the other sleeve.

With the edging, be sure that you keep your tension to be consistent with the shape of the top.  If the edging is too loose, crochet a little tighter or considering going down a hook size.  Same for if it is too tight.  Blocking will help, but can only do so much if the edging is too tight.

The final piece is the V. there should be 2 DC posts each side of your centre stitch marker.  Attach your yarn to the top of the DC furthest from the centre (this will replicate a CH1 and bring the two edges together) and SC into the first stitch of the V.  SC all the way up the side, crocheting into each stitch and into each gap, ensuring you stitch into the stitches, not around them.  The final stitch should be a Slip Stitch into the top of the DC stitch on the body of the top.  Turn, SC into each stitch around, with the final stitch being a Slip Stitch into the next DC space on the body of the top. Turn and repeat for a total of 5 rows.  Tie off and whip stitch the V together for two or three stitches, to keep the rows at the bottom of the V straight while wearing the top.

Making sure the V sits just right... #scheepjes #scheepjeswol #stonewashed #missneriss #crochet

Tie off, sew in all the ends as securely as possible, soak in Eucalan for a couple of hours then block until dry.  Because it is two layers, allow for a long drying time.

On the blocking board, using my new Knit Pro blocking wires - what a cool idea! #scheepjes #stonewashed #missneriss #crochet #scheepjeswol

Jasper V Diagram - Front

Jasper V - Back

Don’t forget to parade around in front of your friends in your new top, you look amazing!

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Image

Taking Over

This is my “Office”.

I have so many projects on the go at once I’m a bit buried in yarn and, well, stuff.

20140806-201845-73125493.jpg
Oh how I’d love one of those Pinterest Perfect studios, but alas, I have 115 square metres of house and most of it is taken up by toys, records and more toys!

What does your crochet space look like?

The Big Reveal!

 

 

The Big Reveal!  The labour of love that has been my #stonewashed top is finally ready!  Pattern is coming soon! #Scheepjes #Scheepjeswol #missneriss

This has been one almighty labour of love and a huge learning curve.  It’s the first time that I’ve designed something that I can wear that’s not a hat or a shawl.  Can you tell how proud I am?The Big Reveal!  The labour of love that has been my #stonewashed top is finally ready!  Pattern is coming soon! #Scheepjes #Scheepjeswol #missnerissThe first thing that really strikes me is how warm it is!  When I first started rolling the idea around in my head I thought perhaps it could be something for the beach, but no!  This is really something for chilly mornings or late summer evening BBQs.  I’m sitting at my laptop in my garden wearing it this morning while there’s still a slight chill in the air and it’s perfect.

I love the wide open V-neck and how versatile it will be.  I already wore it walking the dog this morning, and I also plan to wear it when I go out for dinner next, paired with my favourite jeans and a white top.  For the first time I have an outfit ready!

I’m so happy that I chose the Scheepjeswol Stone Washed for this project.  I love the Red Jasper, but I have to be honest, I chose this colour  when it first came available and if I had to choose now, I don’t know what I would do as the collection has since doubled in size, with so many amazing colour choices!

Here are a few more photos for you to get an idea of the texture and how the colour-play works together.

The Big Reveal!  The labour of love that has been my #stonewashed top is finally ready!  Pattern is coming soon! #Scheepjes #Scheepjeswol #missneriss The Big Reveal!  The labour of love that has been my #stonewashed top is finally ready!  Pattern is coming soon! #Scheepjes #Scheepjeswol #missneriss

Isn’t the V-Neck just fantastic?The Big Reveal!  The labour of love that has been my #stonewashed top is finally ready!  Pattern is coming soon! #Scheepjes #Scheepjeswol #missneriss

It didn’t stay hanging over that chair for long this morning, believe me!The Big Reveal!  The labour of love that has been my #stonewashed top is finally ready!  Pattern is coming soon! #Scheepjes #Scheepjeswol #missneriss

And now comes the almighty task of putting the pattern together!  I’ll have to dig though pages and pages of notes to make it more concise for you to be able to follow, and I’ll be figuring out a few sizes while I’m at it.

But first, I need your help!  This design does not have a name yet and I have no idea what I should call it.  What do you think?

If you want to get your hands on the Stone Washed there are loads of options within the Netherlands.  Scheepjeswol has a list of stockists on their website and for those of you who aren’t lucky enough to live in Holland, you can pick it up via Deramores!

 

 

Project Monday

This is what I’m up to this week.  Can you guess what it’s going to be?