Learn-To-Crochet Afghan blocks are COMPLETED!!!!!

August 24, 2013

Block 17
Crosses and Bars

In this pattern I was asked to yarn over three times before inserting the hook into the stitch, which gives enough yarn to draw through two loops four different times. This makes a stitch long enough to form the long-legged Xs across the solid bars of this good-looking pattern. Longer stitches may look leggy when they aren't combined with other techniques; however, in this block we've taken advantage of the plus side of long stitches, which allows interesting stitch manipulations.

August 25, 2013

Block 18
Three-Color Interlocking Blocks

This block is one of those clever ideas that looks more difficult than it really is. It is made up of stitches already learned - Chains, Double Crochet and Spikes - but they are combined in unique ways. The challenge in this stitch pattern is to make sure to keep all the chains hidden on the wrong side.

Since the interlocking blocks pattern has such a cushy feel, it is perfect for seat covers or rugs. It would make a great bath rug, floor pad for baby, or a cozy afghan worked loosely with an extra large hood and chunky yarn.

This pattern is most effective when used with three or more colors. To make sure the colors appear to be random, always use an odd number of colors. If you used a constant neutral such as black, white, or even red for every third row, it would be a wonderful way to use leftover colors of matching values. If using up leftovers is your goal, try making small items like hot pads or coasters out of this pattern.

August 26, 2013

Block 19
Three-Color Post Stitch Variations

This block features another intriguing use of multi-colors. In the photo above, you can see the six ways the three colors can be combined. Notice how much subtler the colors appear in the lower-right and upper-left sections of this block when the vertical post stitches are the low contrast A and B colors. The center-left section, where the vertical post stitches are the two highest contrast colors, appears most dramatic of all. This pattern stitch looks quite different on the reverse side where the horizontal stripes have equal merit.

This pattern is a good one to use to experiment with color. Try using five or seven analogous or monochromatic colors for an even more intricate look. Keep a one-row accent color in black and then use all different deep jewel tones for the verticals. Use two or four colors for a checkered effect. Make an interesting shawl collar for a jacket by folding a long strip in half. As the collar extends down the front of your jacket, the opposite side will show.

August 27, 2013

Well the last block is finished. Hip Hip Hooray!!!

Block 20
Lace

There are probably more patterns written for lacework than any other kind of crochet. Lace crochet makes excellent edgings and home accessories. Lace wearables using fine threadlike fibers are always a luxury.

That's it for both the Learn-to-Knit and Learn-to-Crochet Afghans. Now when the "snowbirds" arrive I will be ready for them. I went to the store and purchased my yarns for starting the projects for myself. These blocks are for demo only. I will work my afghans with my students. Of course, I'll keep the postings here.