New items added to my Etsy store...

SNSDOLLS

FREE Pattern for crochet angel ornament..

I recently saw a link for a free angel pattern on my Facebook feed. The pattern is super easy (only four (4) rows of crochet); you could easily make several in an afternoon.

Here are two angels I made yesterday (I haven't blocked them yet). The white one on the left is made using Knit-cro-sheen which is a size 10 thread. That made an angel that is about 2 inches. The blue one on the right is made using Premier Cotton Fair, a size 2 cotton yarn. With that yarn I was able to get an angel that is about 3 inches which will match the size of my crocheted snowflakes so I will continue to use the Cotton Fair yarn for the rest of my angels.

Every year I decorate a 6 1/2 ft. tree in my entry way with icicles and snowflakes (just one of many trees I decorate...I love Christmas!). These angels will make a beautiful addition to that tree.

The free pattern is available from Kim Guzman at Crochet Kim.

Pumpkin Table Scapes

I have to show off my latest crochet piece I created from an Annie's pattern. It is just perfect for fall decorating and I plan to use it right through Thanksgiving.

The pattern was very easy to work up...it took about 2 nights to crochet and a hour or so the next day to attach the pumpkins. The completed centerpiece measures approximately 23" in diameter.

Also included is a pattern for a long table runner which is approximately 12"W x 29"L. The instructions call for #4 worsted weight yarn and I used Red Heart Super Saver in the colors recommended by the pattern designer. The pattern is available by clicking on the above picture.

And, of course, if you have a lovely centerpiece, you definitely have to have something to put in the middle so yesterday I baked some pumpkin spice cookies made from a recipe I found on Pinterest.

The recipe makes about 2 1/2 dozen soft, cake-like cookies that are absolutely delicious.

If you would like the recipe, click on the picture with the plate of cookies to be taken directly to the recipe from "The Recipe Critic".

Enter Leisure Arts contest...

SALE EXTENDED - Craftsy classes on sale - under $20

(ad) Surprise! Our friends at Craftsy are extending their weekend class sale! Select classes are not eligible, including those from our partner The Great Courses®.

Offer expires at 11:59 PM MT on September 26, 2016.

Crafty's Farewell to Summer Sale is on!

Craftsy is having a "Farewell to Summer" clearance sale on several of their kits! Below is one of the choices for this sale:

Love cardigans but hate sizing? The Round-About Cardigan will be your new favorite sweater! Made from two panels, this cardigan works up into an interesting, loose fitting piece with a cute, feminine back. Everyone will be asking where you got it! Save 35% off the normal price of this kit.

Offer expires at 11:59 PM MT on August 21, 2016.

Fall/Halloween Instant Download Pattern Sale!

ALL Instant Download Patterns in the Fall/Halloween Section of my Etsy Store (SNSDOLLS) are 50% off NOW through Thursday, September 15 at midnight (EDT)!

No coupon code needed! View pattern sale HERE!

Fall/Halloween Instant Download Pattern Sale!

ALL Instant Download Patterns in the Fall/Halloween Section of my Etsy Store (SNSDOLLS) are 50% off NOW through Thursday, September 15 at midnight (EDT)!

No coupon code needed! View pattern sale HERE!

FREE Pokeman go Trainer Bag...

This came across my Facebook feed last night from Mary Maxim and I thought I would share...

Click on the picture to go to the FREE pattern!

A dog named Sam...FREE pattern!

The Craft Yarn Council website is featuring a FREE pattern, "Sam the dog", designed by Michele Wilcox to celebrate "I Love Yarn Day" on October 15, 2016:

As an animal lover, I can't think of a better way to use leftover yarns from my stash and I am all for celebrating yarn! Get your FREE pattern by clicking on the picture!

From Annie's Craft Store...

Sunflower hat...

This is just the cutest...I can just see a little girl wearing this hat which is a FREE pattern from Oui Crochet!

Oh, how I wish I had a little one to crochet this for..what an adorable hat this will make!

Click on the picture to go directly to the pattern!

FREE Crochet Animal Ornaments pattern...

...available as a FREE pdf pattern download on Craftsy!

Pattern Description: Fill of joy your Christmas tree with these little amigurumi animals that protect themselves from the cold winter. You can choose from a dog, cat, frog, crab, rabbit, owl and a mouse. Or maybe you can crochet them all!

I can see these as a great group project to raise funds for your local humane society during the holidays. Easy to make and great use of leftover yarns.

To download the patterns, click on the picture!

Annie's No. 1 Selling Crochet Pattern...

This pattern is from Annie's Signature Designs and is perfect to keep the chill off for a night on the town or as a casual jacket to wear shopping.

Made using Universal Yarn Classic Shades Frenzy worsted- #5 weight yarn.

Click on the picture for more information!

Grab your hook and get ready to look fabulous!

Yarnspirations has a FREE pattern for a crochet top; no fancy stitches means that it should work up pretty fast.

Choose any two colors, or if you prefer, crochet it in all one color. Either way, it will be the perfect summer top to match your favorite pants or shorts.

The top is crocheted using a Size U.S. H/8 (5 mm) crochet hook or size needed to obtain gauge and Weight 3 - DK & Light Worsted Weight Yarn.

I am so making one of these...or maybe two!

Click on the picture to go to the pattern!

Does your furbaby need a hat for Christmas?

Red Heart has just released two new hats for your pooch that you can download for FREE so that you can make one or more in plenty of time for the holidays!

Too adorable for words! These would make great sellers for your Holiday craft fair table!

These are just the first two (2) designs to be released for Red Heart's "Christmas in July" pattern series. Click on the picture to visit Red Heart and be sure to save the page to your Favorites so you can collect all twenty (20) FREE patterns!

Looking for a pattern to crochet that "little black dress"?

Currently available on Leisure Arts is a beautiful crochet booklet that includes a pattern for a beautiful crochet dress plus many more amazing patterns.

Just for the ladies, Drew Emborsky (aka "The Crochet Dude") has created 13 cutting-edge fashions in luxurious crochet.

Fashion-conscious women are always searching for the perfect Little Black Dress, and Drew has one, plus an incredible selection of other must-have wardrobe pieces.

Designs include a party dress, cabled and ruffled cardigans, flirty skirts, a vest, trendy tops (including a baby doll style), an asymmetrical long coat, an opera jacket, and a keyhole scarf. The designs are crocheted using a variety of beautiful yarns; the majority are made with sumptuous, organic/natural yarns in worsted or sport weight and are highly textured with enticing post stitches.

Get your copy now!

Kitty Cat Afghan...

FREE Crochet Patriotic toddler dress...

Another adorable Free pattern from The Lavender Chair.

Click on the picture to go to her Ravelry page to get the pattern. Remember to show a little love when you download the pattern!

Yarn substitutions...

Simba...A Free crochet patttern for amigurumi lovers!

Free Crochet Baby Patterns on Craftsy...

Are you looking for the "perfect" crochet pattern so you can create a special gift for the new baby?

Here are just two of the many FREE crochet baby patterns available on Craftsy. You can download either or both patterns by clicking on each picture.





If these patterns are not exactly what you are looking for, why not check out all the lovely free baby patterns made available as pdf downloads by several Craftsy designers!

Kitties Table Topper...

From Annie's Craft Store...

Kitties All Around Table Topper Pattern

Top your table with this "purr-fect" pattern!

This sweet table topper is perfect for the cat lover in your life -- even if that's you! It features 2 versions of cuddly kitties, all ready for you to dine in style! Finished size is 36" in diameter.

Hot off my knitting needles...

I recently bought a pattern for a knitted top from Annie's. I don't particularly like to knit because it always seems to take longer than crochet, but I really liked this particular style.

After starting the project, I was happy to find out that the pattern worked up very quickly. It is basically a three row pattern repeat; one row to create the pattern and two rows of knitting each stitch. There are even directions if you decide you would like less drape in the front.

I have to say that the fit is every bit as nice as I was hoping; not too clingy, but conforming to my body. There is a 3 inch slit on each side at the bottom for added interest.

I used the yarn that the pattern recommended; Premier® Yarns Cotton Fair in color Turquoise.




I highly recommend the pattern and also the yarn. I am actually using the same brand of yarn to create a beautiful shawl as part of a Crochet Along.

If you are looking for a quick, sassy top to wear over your tank tops this summer, this pattern would make a great choice!

"Dance..."

Just released!  My latest pattern; "Dance..", a wool felt sewing design for a table or wall decoration.

Pattern is available as a pdf instant download on either Etsy or Craftsy.

Up to 40% off Leisure Arts...

Do you knit, crochet, sew or like to color? Leisure Arts is having a Memorial Day Sale...40% off all digitial downloads and 30% off all physical products with FREE shipping on orders over $35.

For example, I blogged about this pattern booklet some time ago.

I actually own it and I love all the different designs. The pdf download is normally $7.99.

For the Memorial Day sale, the digital version is now $4.79 with no shipping on downloaded patterns. That's quite a savings. Plenty of gifts can be made for wedding showers that might be coming around!

The sale price will show in your cart; there is no need for a coupon code.

However, if you are a senior, a teacher or military, don't forget to use the coupon codes I have listed to the right of this blog for an additional 15% off making your final cost $4.07!  That's almost half off the original price!

Now is the time to buy your favorites! Click on the pictures to go to the site!

Crochet Sunflowers...

I love sunflowers...actually I love all flowers. Recently, a couple of free sunflower patterns crossed my Facebook feed and I thought I would share.

Actually, I decided to make one of the patterns which was for sunflower coasters.

I thought they would look cute on a table next to my silk sunflower arrangement. Wrong, my son has already spoken up and asked if he could have them...so I guess I will have to make another set.

At any rate, this pattern was super simple...only five rounds. After the first coaster, it was easy to do the rest without looking at the pattern. Make them in any color; the designer has several color combinations on her webpage.

~affiliate link~ Pot Holders pdf pattern from Leisure Arts...
don't forget to use a 15% off coupon code


Next, I saw these adorable sunflowers in a pot pattern.

Ink & Stitches, The Writerly and Creative Life of J.H. Winter

How cute! I haven't made one of them yet, but I am keeping the pattern in my files for a time when I may need something as a housewarming gift or a gift to cheer up a friend.

You can get any of the patterns by clicking on the corresponding picture.

Have fun!

FREE pattern...Crochet Pineapple top

I was sorting some of my older emails and found this cute crochet item to wear over a tank top. It's a FREE pattern of Red Heart yarns using Creme de la Creme yarn.

Pattern is in sizes S/M to 3X. Click on the picture to go to the pattern!

Looking for a superhero?

Made by Mary is now making her crochet superhero patterns FREE on Ravelry. Mary Smith is the talented designer behind Made by Mary and apparently she was unable to get Disney's permission to sell her patterns, so she decided to give them away.

If you have never made one of Mary's patterns, they are wonderful. I recently made her pattern "Holli the Heart" for my grandson as a Valentine's gift.

Please remember that while Mary has made her patterns FREE, they are still her property as far as copyright.

Also, remember that Mary is making them free because Disney would not allow Mary to sell her patterns so a word of caution for all crocheters...if you sell completed superhero dolls made from Mary's patterns, you could encounter some problems with Disney; they are very proactive in stopping the sale of their trademarked property.

Lastly, please don't forget to show Mary some "love" by adding some of her patterns to your favorites in Ravelry!

Click on each picture to go directly to the patterns.

Stunning FREE Crochet Dress pattern...

Red Heart Yarns is making available an absolutely beautiful FREE crochet dress pattern designed by Lisa Gentry. Perfect to wear for a wedding or graduation party.

The dress is crocheted using a 3.75mm [US F-5] hook and size 3 fashion crochet thread. Sizes includes are Small/Medium, Large, X-Large, 2X-Large/3X-Large.

Since it is worked in one piece, from the neck downwards, you could easily make it as a top by crocheting fewer rows at the bottom and adding a pretty edging to finish. I just love this pattern!

Click on the picture to go to the pattern!!

Adorable crochet dress and hat from Annie's Catalog

Juliet Dress - $7.99 A hint of vintage mixed with modern, textured stitches results in a spring ensemble for any little girl's wardrobe. Mix up the colors with brights and whites for that whimsical little miss, or switch to neutrals and mochas for that zen baby. Simple post stitches keep the avid crocheter interested, and the newcomer to cables confident. Pattern includes sundress and sunhat, and is made using sport weight yarn. Finished sizes:; 6 (9, 12, 18, 24) months; 2 (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)T

Professional Yarn Dyeing at Home...

...with Sarah Eyre

One of the many new classes being offered at Craftsy!

Learn techniques for dyeing solid, speckled and variegated yarns at home. Create gorgeous colorways with tips for prepping, dyeing and drying your fibers.

Save 33%...regularly $29.99 Now on sale for $19.99!!

Click on the picture for more information and an introductory video of the class.

FREE Spring Flower Dishcloth pattern...

Quick and easy way to add colors and flowers to your kitchen decor!

Pattern written for two fabulous spring color combinations (or choose your own colors) and is being made available on Yarnspirations using Lily Sugar 'N Cream or other worsted weight cotton yarn.

Click on the picture to download the pattern.

Crochet a lacy topper or two...

Two FREE patterns were shared on my Facebook newsfeed today.

The first one is "Lace Essence Top" by Dora Ohrenstein for Red Heart Yarns. I know many people have never tried crocheting with size 10 crochet cotton and some don't like to use it, but this one is just too cute to pass up. It is very feminine and would look lovely over a tank top.

This lacy pattern is actually crocheted in two halves starting at the sleeve and sewn together at the center front and center back.

I also fell in love with Kim Guzman's crochet top pattern called "Clarice" that is available to download for FREE on Ravelry for a limited time.

"Clarice" is part of a CrochetKim Crochet Along starting May 1. Join Kim's Facebook Crochet Along group by clicking on the link found on her website. If you have never joined a crochet-along (CAL), it is a lot of fun.


Each pattern can be found by clicking on the picture.

Eyes...

If you have ever crocheted or knitted a doll or animal toy for a child, you know that your basic options are safety eyes or buttons. While safety eyes are best for small children, they do upon occasion break apart.

HodgePodge Crochet has made available a video tutorial on how to crochet eyes for your projects; a much safer alternative for younger children's toys.

Click on the picture to visit HodgePodge Crochet to view the video tutorial. Don't forget to show a little love by sharing her social media links.

This post contains affiliate links.

10 Fabulous Crochet Shrug patterns...

Click on the picture for pattern information.



This post contains an affiliate link.

Supplies & Kits Clearance Sale

No time to tiptoe around the tulips –– Craftsy is having a clearance sale! You'll find craft project kits and supplies from your favorite brands and designers, discounted at least 40%. Stock up for spring, and get ready to pack a picnic basket full of inspiration!

Click on the picture to view the sale!

I may be compensated if you click on a link in this blog.

Sales at Annie's Craft Store

I may be compensated if you click on this link.

FREE! Guide to Crocheting in the Round...

...available for download on Craftsy.

Are you afraid crocheting in the round will have you spinning in circles? It’s simply not true! Download this FREE printable guide written exclusively for Craftsy, and get 14 pages of easy-to-follow photo tutorials that will walk you through the skills you need to know. You’ll learn how to crochet a continuous spiral, work the magic ring method, read circular diagrams and more!

This blog contains affiliate links.

I can dream, can't I?

April 1st...April Fool's Day. The weather in Central New York was warmer than usual as it has been all winter. Across my Facebook feed comes a video of a recipe for Boozy Sherbet Punch:



Looks refreshingly delicious. I could picture myself sitting on my deck, swinging on the porch swing my son gifted me for my birthday last year, lost in whatever needlework project that I picked up from my many WIPs (works in progress).

Ah, but April Fool's came late in my hometown shattering my dreams. On April 3rd, the snows came with a flurry of white as though it was the middle of January. Ironically, local schools were closed on Monday after having an extra vacation day on March 28th because they didn't use their "snow days" yet.

Looking out my kitchen window today, it would seem that my dreams may have to wait for a few more days or weeks:

My deck and porch swing are covered in snow and it is down right cold out there.

If you would like the recipe for Boozy Sherbet Punch, here is the link!

Pick Your Prize! Win $100 Worth of Craftsy Goodies

What do I win?

Pick any classes, kits or supplies you’ve had your eye on. As long as your total is within the $100 limit, you can move whatever you desire from your wishlist to your to-do list. Want to receive a $20 class, a $60 kit and $20 worth of notions? You’ve got it! Want a $100 kit? Go for it! The prize is totally up to you.

How do I enter?

To enter, simply sign into your Craftsy account and click here before 11:59 p.m. MT on Saturday, April 30. That’s all you have to do!

Don’t have a Craftsy account yet? That’s OK! It’s fast, easy and free to sign up for one today.






This post contains an affiliate link. Affiliate links provide me with income to help keep my blogs free.

New Online Class from Craftsy! Secrets to Successful Selfies

Do you start every morning with an “I woke up like this” hashtag?

Are you completely devoted to the noble task of taking the perfect selfie?

Well, you’re about to be #blessed, because we’re releasing the new online class Secrets to Successful Selfies today, and we want you to be the first to know!

Secrets to Successful Selfies



This post contains affiliate links.