Butterfly's Creations: April 2013

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse Beanies

Another popular icon I wanted to do was Mickey mouse, of course with Mickey also comes Minnie. I found a pattern, yet again, over at Repeat Crafter Me for hats. I made my original ones in toddler size, using my General Hat Patterns and starting the red yarn at row 9. Using her pattern for the mouse ears and Minnie's bow, I completed the look.

(I always turn my beanies inside out after completing, to use that side as the “right side”, because I feel it always comes out looking better on that side)

***Note on my beanie patterns: I've realized that I had learned the DC stitch wrong, so my beanie pattern was done to the scale of my wrong stitch instead (which is really a long-DC stitch). So, you might want to do long-DC stitches, OR add a row or two to the bottom of the beanie. Also, my "Chain 2" NEVER counts as a DC in any of my patterns.***

(Every pattern that I currently have available to download is in Word format and is downloadable on my Scribd. If I do not have a pattern there, then I do not have a downloadable version of it. Please do not e-mail me with requests of patterns, as I most likely will not even check my e-mail. I apologize for this but I have a full-time job now and no longer keep up with the pattern requests. Thanks, and here is the link to my Scribd: https://www.scribd.com/ashley_holden_14)

Stitch Abbreviations:

CH= Chain

SC= Single Crochet

DC= Double Crochet

SL ST= Slip Stitch

ST= Stitch(es)

You will need size 4 Worsted weight yarn in Black & Red for Mickey Mouse OR in Black & Pink for Minnie Mouse (I used I Love This Yarn in Black, Red, & Old Rose). I usually use the size H on everything, but I also work my stitches pretty tightly. (Just remember that changes hook changes the size of your work)

Work entirely in Black for solid version, of course. Start in Black, and change to second color (Pink or Red) where indicated for two-tone effect.

Size: 0-3 Months

(Two-Tone version: make rows 6-10 in second color)
Chain 6, join to form ring, Chain 2

Finish off. (Start on Earflap 1, if doing Earflaps/Ties. If doing a border in a contrasting color, start at Edging/Border section here. OR, if you want it one solid color, just weave in ends)

Size: 3-6 Months

(Two-Tone version: make rows 7-11 in second color)
Chain 6, join to form ring, Chain 2

(Two-Tone version: make rows 8-12 in second color)
Chain 6, join to form ring, Chain 2 (11 DC)

(Two-Tone version: make rows 8-12 in second color)
Chain 6, join to form ring, Chain 2

Finish off. (Start on Earflap 1, if doing Earflaps/Ties. If doing a border in a contrasting color, start at Edging/Border section here. OR, if you want it one solid color, just weave in ends)

Size: Toddler (appx. ages 12 month – 3 years)

(Two-Tone version: make rows 8-12 in second color)
Chain 6, join to form ring, Chain 2

(Two-Tone version: make rows10-14 in second color)
Chain 6, join to form ring, Chain 2

(Two-Tone version: make rows 10-14 in second color)
Chain 6, join to form ring, Chain 2
Round 1: 11 DC in ring, join to first DC, chain 2 (11 DC)
Round 2: 2 DC in each around, join, chain 2 (22 DC)
Round 3: (DC in first, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (33 DC)
Round 4: (DC in first 2, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (44 DC)
Round 5: (DC in first 10, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (48 DC)
Round 6: (DC in first 11, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (52 DC)
Round 7: (DC in first 12, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (56 DC)
Round 8: (DC in first 13, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (60 DC)
Round 9: (DC in first 14, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (64 DC)
Round 10: (DC in first 15, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (68 DC)
Rounds 11-14: DC in each around, join, chain 2 (68 DC)Finish off. (Start on Earflap 1, if doing Earflaps/Ties. If doing a border in a contrasting color, start at Edging/Border section here. OR, if you want it one solid color, just weave in ends)

Earflaps

(be sure to pick the right one for your size beanie)

Earflaps for 0-3 Months - Preschooler

Starting at where you finished off your beanie, skip the right amount of stitches for your size beanie and start Earflap 1 in next stitch. Skip 6 stitches for 0-3 Months size, skip 7 for 3-6 Months size, skip 8 for 6-9 Months size, skip 9 for 9-12 Months size, & skip 10 for Toddler/Preschooler sizes.

Earflap 1:
Row 1: Chain 1, SC in next 10, chain 1, turn (10 SC)
Row 2: SC decrease, SC in next 6, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (8 ST)
Row 3: SC across, chain 1, turn (8 SC)
Row 4: SC decrease, SC in next 4, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (6 ST)
Row 5: SC across, chain 1, turn ( 6 SC)
Row 6: SC decrease, SC in next 2, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (4 ST)
Row 7: SC across, chain 1, turn (4 SC)
Row 8: Make 2 SC decreases, (If you are doing braided ties: at this point chain 4, turn, and sl st to last stitch. Finish off here & start Earflap 2) chain 1, turn (2 ST)
Row 9: SC decrease (1 ST)

Finish off. Start on Earflap 2.

Earflap 2:
Row 1: Chain 1, SC in next 10, chain 1, turn (10 SC)
Row 2: SC decrease, SC in next 6, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (8 ST)
Row 3: SC across, chain 1, turn (8 SC)
Row 4: SC decrease, SC in next 4, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (6 ST)
Row 5: SC across, chain 1, turn ( 6 SC)
Row 6: SC decrease, SC in next 2, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (4 ST)
Row 7: SC across, chain 1, turn (4 SC)
Row 8: Make 2 SC decreases, (If you are doing braided ties: at this point chain 4, turn, and sl st to last stitch. Finish off here) chain 1, turn (2 ST)
Row 9: SC decrease (1 ST)

Do NOT Finish off, start your Edging/Border here using the same yarn first

Earflaps for Child - Adult

Starting at where you finished off your beanie, skip the right amount of stitches for your beanie size and start Earflap 1 in next stitch. Skip 10 stitches for Child size, & skip 11 for Teen/Adult size.

Earflap 1:
Row 1: Chain 1, SC in next 12, chain 1, turn (12 SC)
Row 2: SC decrease, SC in next 8, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (10 ST)
Row 3: SC across, chain 1, turn (10 SC)
Row 4: SC decrease, SC in next 6, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (8 ST)
Row 5: SC across, chain 1, turn ( 8 SC)
Row 6: SC decrease, SC in next 4, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (6 ST)
Row 7: SC across, chain 1, turn ( 6 SC)
Row 8: SC decrease, SC in next 2, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (4 ST)
Row 9: SC across, chain 1, turn (4 SC)
Row 10: Make 2 SC decreases, (If you are doing braided ties: at this point chain 4, turn, and sl st to last stitch. Finish off here & start Earflap 2) chain 1, turn (2 ST)
Row 11: SC decrease (1 ST)

Finish off. Start on Earflap 2.

Starting at other side of Earflap 1 (where you put your last stitch from Row 1), skip the right amount of stitches and start Earflap 2 in next stitch. Skip 20 stitches for Child size, & skip for 22 Teen/Adult size.

Earflap 2:
Row 1: Chain 1, SC in next 12, chain 1, turn (12 SC)
Row 2: SC decrease, SC in next 8, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (10 ST)
Row 3: SC across, chain 1, turn (10 SC)
Row 4: SC decrease, SC in next 6, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (8 ST)
Row 5: SC across, chain 1, turn ( 8 SC)
Row 6: SC decrease, SC in next 4, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (6 ST)
Row 7: SC across, chain 1, turn ( 6 SC)
Row 8: SC decrease, SC in next 2, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (4 ST)
Row 9: SC across, chain 1, turn (4 SC)
Row 10: Make 2 SC decreases, (If you are doing braided ties: at this point chain 4, turn, and sl st to last stitch. Finish off here.) chain 1, turn (2 ST)
Row 11: SC decrease (1 ST)

Do NOT Finish off, start your Edging/Border here using the same yarn first

Edging/Border

It's best when you have added earflaps to do a border in that same color of the earflaps first, and then another border in the contrasting color. This will give you a better looking edge, taking care of any weird gaps caused by different size stitches. So, chain 1 (after last stitch from earflap) & then SC around entire beanie in that same color, join to first SC. Then change to the contrasting color (Ishowed below how I do that) & SC around entire beanie again (make sure that if you are doing Regular Ties, that you do them at the points of the earflaps starting immediately after changing colors for second border)
Changing colors: End your last row by starting an SC into last stitch, but do not pull through loops on hook. So with the color your ending: yarn over, insert hook into last stitch, pull up a loop. Then get your second color: yarn over, pull through both loops on hook, slip stitch to first SC of round. Color change complete! Now, Chain 1 with this new color and continue with your border.

***I TURN MY BEANIES INSIDE OUT AT THIS POINT, OR WHEN I'M DONE BECAUSE I FEEL THE "INSIDE" WHILE YOU'RE WORKING ACTUALLY TURNS OUT LOOKING THE BEST.***

Ties

Braided Ties

Cut yarn out of desired colors (1-3 colors) in 36" strands (9 total). Fold in half and grab at the loop that forms at the halfway point. Pull that loop through the ch-4 space from last row on Earflap. Open loop up and pull through the strands left (this makes a sort of knot to keep the braid on there and will double your strands, leaving you with 18).
Divide yarn into three groups, keeping in mind how the colors will come out looking, and braid until desired length. Tie another knot to finish off and cut ends so that only about an inch to an inch and a half hang down. **I usually make the braids about 5 1/2 inches long (from knot to knot) for 0-9 months and almost 9 inches long (from knot to knot) for the bigger sizes**

Regular Ties

Starting at the end of each earflap, chain 40 (or as long/short as you wish), SC in 4th chain from hook and the rest of the way down the chain.
After doing both ties, attach Tassels or Pom-Poms.

Tassels

Cut a piece of cardboard 3" square (or use the width of your palm). Wind a strand of yarn around the cardboard approximately 30 times (or however thick you want it) and cut it.
Cut a small length of yarn and insert it under all of the strands at the top of the cardboard; pull up tightly and tie securely. Leave the yarn ends long enough to attach the tassel to the beanie. Cut the yarn at the opposite end of the cardboard and then put the cardboard aside. Cut small length of yarn and, 1 inch below the top, wrap it tightly around the tassel twice; tie securely. Trim the ends and attach to beanie.

Pom-Poms

Cut a piece of cardboard 3" square (or use the width of your palm). Wind a strand of yarn around the cardboard approximately 30 times (or however thick you want it) and cut it. Carefully slide off of your hand or the cardboard, being careful to make sure it keeps the same shape.
Cut about 15" length of yarn and place behind at the middle; wrap around and tie securely, making sure it stays at the middle. Leave the yarn ends long enough to attach the pom-pom to the beanie. Cut the yarn at the opposite both ends of the pom-pom to make the edges. Trim the ends, fluff it up, and attach to the beanie.

Mouse Ears (originally found here, edited some)

Chain 6, join with sl st, chain 1

Round 1: 2 HDC in each stitch around, join with sl st, chain 1

Round 2: 2 HDC in each stitch around (24 HDC), join, chain 1

Round 3: 2 SC, SC in next, repeat pattern around (36 SC), finish off but leave long tail for sewing onto hat

(Sew ears between rows 3 and 6 from beanie)

*Make two ears and sew together for thicker, sturdier ears. I did this with the Mickey hat, but not for Minnie.

Minnie’s Bow (originally found here, edited some)

(Make foundation chain longer/shorter or use a bigger/smaller hook for bigger/smaller bow)

Chain 16

Row 1: HDC in second chain from hook, SC in next 14, chain 1, turn

Rows 2-5: HDC across (15 HDC)

Ending: do not turn, continue to SC around edges, join to first SC in row 5.

Finish off, weave in ends.

Finishing: Scrunch the middle of the bow accordion style and with a tapestry needle, sew yarn through the middle. With long tail, wrap yarn the middle approx. 10-15 times. Tie off, but leave a tail for sewing onto hat. I sewed the middle of the bow to the top center of the hat and also sewed the bow to the ears.

I made them in sets also, of course (Look at my post Diaper Cover Patterns for more about my diaper covers)...

******Credit is given where due, I don't claim any patterns to be mine that are not. If you use this pattern please link back to Butterfly’s Creations, please do not claim patterns as your own that are not yours. I also ask that you do not repost my pattern, it takes quite a bit of time to count everything out and type these up so please give credit where it's due. *****

Monday, April 15, 2013

Initialed Beanies

Another potential customer contacted me after viewing some of my work online, and she wanted a set for her son Logan. She liked the Batman design, but wanted an L for his name, so I came up with this:

I used my General Hat Pattern (adding the white border with sc stitches), then the oval pattern that I used for my Batman design, and chain stitched an L on top (to still look like a superhero logo).

Oval (originally found here)

Chain 2
Round 1: SC 6 in 2nd ch from hook, don’t turn. (6)
Round 2: SC 3 in first st, 2 in next, 1 in next, repeat once. (12)
Round 3: SC 1 in first st, 2 in next three, 1 in next 3, 2 in next three, 1 in last two sts. (18)
Round 4: SC 1 in first two sts, 2 in next (inc), 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in next four, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in last two sts. (24)
Round 5: SC 1 in first three sts, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in next seven, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in last four sts. (30)
Round 6: SC 1 in first four sts, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in next ten, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in last six. (36)
Round 7: SC 1 in first five sts, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in next thirteen, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in last eight. (42)
Round 8: SC 1 in first six sts, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in next sixteen, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in last ten.

There is also a good tutorial here on how to make letters in the way I did the L.

She wanted on of my diaper covers also. (Look at my post Diaper Cover Patterns for more about my diaper covers).

But, it seemed a little plain to me, so I asked her if there was anything she could think of that she might like to add to the back. We put our heads together and she came up with an idea of having a little bear on it, which I had never attempted before so it was a challenge. It came out like this:

Bear Applique (originally found here,edited some)
Chain 6, sl st in first ch to form a ring
Round 1: ch 3, 8 dc into ring, sl st in top of beginning ch-3; (8 dc)
Round 2: ch 3, 2 dc in each dc around; (16 dc)
(Do not finish off, continue with first ear)

Ear 1: ch 2, sc in next dc, dc in next dc, sc in next dc, finish off.
Ear 2: Count over 3 dc from last ear, join in 3rd dc, ch 2, sc in next dc, dc in next dc, sc in next dc, finish off.

Muzzle:
Chain 6, sl st in first ch to form a ring
Round 1: ch 3, 8 dc into ring, sl st in top of beginning ch-3; (8 dc)
Finish off.

Ending:
Place the muzzle so that the bottom of both circles match up. Then using embroidery floss, stitch on a small triangular nose, sewing over the top of the muzzle and into the face. Then, add a smile. Finish off by sewing on the two bead eyes.

******Credit is given where due, I don't claim any patterns to be mine that are not. If you use this pattern please link back to Butterfly’s Creations, please do not claim patterns as your own that are not yours. I also ask that you do not repost my pattern, it takes quite a bit of time to count everything out and type these up so please give credit where it's due. *****

Butterfly Beanies

I posted some of my items online for sale on my local Facebook Swap Meet, and I had someone ask me for something I had never done. So, of course, I took the challenge because it's always fun to learn something new. Plus, she wanted something butterfly themed, so I couldn't pass that up!

This was the one I made for her.....

And, after I had started on it, I also discovered some really cute baby yarn that had shimmery yarn weaved in with it. And, so I made this version too....

I used the General Beanie Pattern that I like to use for my hats, but added a row of white sc stitches for a border. The butterfly pattern I got free on a blog here and I also listed the instructions below a little edited because a couple things had been repeated in the original pattern.

(Look at my post Diaper Cover Patterns for more about my diaper covers).

Butterfly Applique (edited some)

Sl st and then chain 6. Join to form a circle.

Round 1: Chain 3 (this will count as your first DC), 2 DC into the circle, chain 1, *3 DC, ch 1* (repeat this set 6 more times), join the round. (8 sets of 3 DC's).

Round 2: Chain 2 (this will count as the first DC), 2 DC into the same ch-1 space, ch 1, 3 DC into the same ch-1 space, *3 DC, ch 1, 3 DC* into each ch-1 space, join the round. (8 sets of 6 DC’s separated by a ch-1 space)
(Your piece should be quite ruffled at this point, so don't worry.)

Round 3: Chain 2 (This will count as your first DC), 7 DC into the same ch-1 space, SC in the stitch in between the two ch-1 spaces, *8 DC into each ch-1 space, SC in between*, join the round. (8 sets of 8 DC’s in each ch-1 space)
Finish off, leaving a long tail to sew your butterfly together.

Finishing: Fold your round ruffled circle in half, aligning each set of four wings with the tail at the bottom. Sew up the center until you reach the inner circle of Round 1.

For Antennae

Chain 25, SC in the second chain from the hook and in the next 4, sl st in the next 14, and SC in the last 5. Finish off, leaving a long tail for sewing onto the butterfly.
Finishing: Fold the antennae in half and sew at the top of the butterfly.

Batman Logo Beanies

I love superhero things (of course, I have a boy!), so I've been wanting to do a Batman beanie and possibly a set. But, I couldn't figure out how I would do the bat. Then, I found a really great bat pattern online at Louie's Loops, he even had an oval pattern. So, I started making a beanie with my General Beanie Pattern (also placing a yellow border of sc stiches), then proceeded to make the bat and oval. I loved the way it turned out!

Stitch Abbreviations:

CH = Chain

SC = Single Crochet

DC = Double Crochet

SL ST = Slip Stitch

ST = Stitch(es)

MP = Mini Picot (Chain 2, SL ST in 2^nd chain from hook)

You will need size 4 Worsted weight yarn in Black & Yellow (I used I love This Yarn). I used the size H on mine to make it bigger. (Just remember that changes hook changes the size of your work)

Batman Bat (originally found here)
Chain 16
Row 1: Skip first 2 chains, HDC 1, MP, HDC 1 in next two, SC 1, MP, SC 1 in next three, MP, SC 1 in next three, MP, SC 1, HDC 1 in next two, MP, HDC 1, sl.st 1 in same as last. Turn upside down and chain 2 (15)
Row 2: On backside: (In where you put the last HDC and sl.st) DC 1, HDC 1 in next two, SC 1 in next three, MP, SC 1 in next two, MP, SC 1 in next three, HDC 1 in next two, DC 1 (14)
Cut and sew the end into the bat to hide it.

Batman Oval (originally found here)
Chain 2
Round 1: SC 6 in second chain from hook, don’t turn. (6)
Round 2: SC 3 in first st, 2 in next, 1 in next, repeat once. (12)
Round 3: SC 1 in first st, 2 in next three, 1 in next 3, 2 in next three, 1 in last two sts. (18)
Round 4: SC 1 in first two sts, 2 in next (inc), 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in next four, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in last two sts. (24)
Round 5: SC 1 in first three sts, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in next seven, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in last four sts. (30)
Round 6: SC 1 in first four sts, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in next ten, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in last six. (36)
Round 7: SC 1 in first five sts, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in next thirteen, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in last eight. (42)
Round 8: SC 1 in first six sts, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in next sixteen, 2 in next, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1 in last ten.

Then I decided to make a set, but wanted to do the beanie a little different (adding braids and earflaps):

You can find the earflap pattern again at the bottom of my General Hat Patterns post.

Bat Ears (my original design)

I used a size H hook and size 4 worsted yarn in black. Add/remove rows or use a different hook size for bigger/smaller ears. Make sure you make two.

Chain 3

Round 1: 4 DC in third chain from hook, join, chain 2 (4 DC)

Round 2: 2 DC in each around, join, chain 2 (8 DC)

Round 3: (DC in first, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (12 DC)

Round 4: (DC in first 2, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (16 DC)

Round 5: (DC in first 3, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join (20 DC)

Finish off, leaving a long tail for sewing onto beanie.

These are a couple of versions of diaper covers that I made to go with it, a black with yellow border and a plain black with the logo on the back. (Look at my post Diaper Cover Patterns for more about my diaper covers).

Penguin Beanies

I had a friend ask for a penguin hat, so while searching, I decided to test out the one at Repeat Crafter Me that I had found under her Penguin Hat Post. I used that pattern (as I referenced in my earlier post General Crochet Hat Patterns) for the hat part, and the other designs specific in the post (as shown below). But, I'm not a big fan of pom poms so instead I did tassels, which I put the instructions for that at the bottom of the post. The hat in the picture didn't turn out perfect, I redid it but never got a chance to take a picture of the redone version (maybe something I'll post later). Enjoy!

Penguin Face (originally found here)
Row 1: Chain 16, SC in second chain from hook and rest of way down chain, chain 1, turn
Row 2: 2 SC in first stitch, SC across, 2 SC in last stitch, chain 1, turn
Row 3-7: SC across, ch 1, turn
Row 8: SC in first 2 stitches, HDC in next 3, SC in next 7, HDC in next 3, SC in last 2, chain 1, turn
Row 9: HDC in first 2 stitches, DC in next 3, HDC in next 2, SC in next 3, HDC in next 2, DC in next 3, HDC in last 2, ch 1, turn
Row 10: SC in first 2, DC in next 4, SC in next 5, DC in next 4, SC in last 2,
Continue to SC around piece until you get to the beginning of row 10.
Fasten off leaving long tail to sew on

Penguin Nose
Chain 5
SC in second chain from hook, HDC, DC , TC,
Fasten off leaving tail to sew onto center of face

Bow Pattern (for girl penguins)
Row 1: Chain 10, SC in second chain from hook and the rest of the way down chain, chain 1, turn
Row 2-4: SC across, chain 1, turn
at the end of row 4, continue to SC around the edges, join to first SC, fasten off and weave in ends.
Wrap yarn around the middle of the bow, tie off tightly and attach to hat.

******Credit is given where due, I don't claim any patterns to be mine that are not. If you use this pattern please link back to Butterfly’s Creations, please do not claim patterns as your own that are not yours. I also ask that you do not repost my pattern, it takes quite a bit of time to count everything out and type these up so please give credit where it's due. *****

Saturday, April 13, 2013

General Crochet Beanies

This is the general pattern that I base all of my beanie patterns off of, plus instructions for earflaps, regular ties (with tassels or pom-poms at the ends), and braided ties.

This is an example of what it looks like (this is an adult size beanie with no earflaps or ties):

This is an example of what it looks like with multicolored yarn (this is an adult size beanie with no earflaps or ties, done in a camouflage yarn):

Beanies

(I always turn my beanies inside out after completing, to use that side as the “right side”, because I feel it always comes out looking better on that side)

***Note on my beanie patterns: I've realized that I had learned the DC stitch wrong, so my beanie pattern was done to the scale of my wrong stitch instead (which is really a long-DC stitch). So, you might want to do long-DC stitches, OR add a row or two to the bottom of the beanie. Also, my "Chain 2" NEVER counts as a DC in any of my patterns.***

Stitch Abbreviations:

CH= Chain

SC= Single Crochet

DC= Double Crochet

SL ST= Slip Stitch

ST= Stitch(es)

You will need size 4 Worsted weight yarn. I usually use the size H hook on everything, but I also work my stitches pretty tightly. (Just remember that changes hook changes the size of your work)

Size: 0-3 Months
Chain 6, join to form ring, Chain 2

Round 1: 11 DC in ring, join to first DC, chain 2
Round 2: 2 DC in each around, join, chain 2 (22 DC)
Round 3: (DC in first, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (33 DC)
Round 4: (DC in first 2, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (44 DC)
Rounds 5-10: DC in each around, join, chain 2 (44 DC)
Finish off. (Start on Earflap 1, if doing Earflaps/Ties. If doing a border in a contrasting color, start at Edging/Border section here. OR, if you want it one solid color, just weave in ends)

Size: 3-6 Months
Chain 6, join to form ring, Chain 2
Round 1: 11 DC in ring, join to first DC, chain 2 (11 DC)
Round 2: 2 DC in each around, join, chain 2 (22 DC)
Round 3: (DC in first, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (33 DC)
Round 4: (DC in first 2, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (44 DC)
Round 5: (DC in first 10, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (48 DC)
Rounds 6-11: DC in each around, join, chain 2 (48 DC)
Finish off. (Start on Earflap 1, if doing Earflaps/Ties. If doing a border in a contrasting color, start at Edging/Border section here. OR, if you want it one solid color, just weave in ends)

Size: 6-9 Months
Chain 6, join to form ring, Chain 2 (11 DC)
Round 1: 11 DC in ring, join to first DC, chain 2
Round 2: 2 DC in each around, join, chain 2 (22 DC)
Round 3: (DC in first, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (33 DC)
Round 4: (DC in first 2, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (44 DC)
Round 5: (DC in first 10, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (48 DC)
Round 6: (DC in first 11, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (52 DC)
Rounds 7-12: DC in each around, join, chain 2 (52 DC)
Finish off. (Start on Earflap 1, if doing Earflaps/Ties. If doing a border in a contrasting color, start at Edging/Border section here. OR, if you want it one solid color, just weave in ends)

Size: 9-12 Months
Chain 6, join to form ring, Chain 2
Round 1: 11 DC in ring, join to first DC, chain 2 (11 DC)
Round 2: 2 DC in each around, join, chain 2 (22 DC)
Round 3: (DC in first, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (33 DC)
Round 4: (DC in first 2, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (44 DC)
Round 5: (DC in first 10, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (48 DC)
Round 6: (DC in first 11, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (52 DC)
Round 7: (DC in first 12, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (56 DC)
Rounds 8-13: DC in each around, join, chain 2 (56 DC)
Finish off. (Start on Earflap 1, if doing Earflaps/Ties. If doing a border in a contrasting color, start at Edging/Border section here. OR, if you want it one solid color, just weave in ends)

Size: Toddler (appx. ages 12 month – 3 years)
Chain 6, join to form ring, Chain 2

Round 1: 11 DC in ring, join to first DC, chain 2 (11 DC)
Round 2: 2 DC in each around, join, chain 2 (22 DC)
Round 3: (DC in first, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (33 DC)
Round 4: (DC in first 2, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (44 DC)
Round 5: (DC in first 10, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (48 DC)
Round 6: (DC in first 11, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (52 DC)
Round 7: (DC in first 12, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (56 DC)
Round 8: (DC in first 13, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (60 DC)
Rounds 9-12: DC in each around, join, chain 2 (60 DC)
Finish off. (Start on Earflap 1, if doing Earflaps/Ties. If doing a border in a contrasting color, start at Edging/Border section here. OR, if you want it one solid color, just weave in ends)

Size: Preschooler (appx. ages 3-7)
Chain 6, join to form ring, Chain 2
Round 1: 11 DC in ring, join to first DC, chain 2 (11 DC)
Round 2: 2 DC in each around, join, chain 2 (22 DC)
Round 3: (DC in first, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (33 DC)
Round 4: (DC in first 2, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (44 DC)
Round 5: (DC in first 10, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (48 DC)
Round 6: (DC in first 11, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (52 DC)
Round 7: (DC in first 12, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (56 DC)
Round 8: (DC in first 13, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (60 DC)
Rounds 9-14: DC in each around, join, chain 2 (60 DC)
Finish off. (Start on Earflap 1, if doing Earflaps/Ties. If doing a border in a contrasting color, start at Edging/Border section here. OR, if you want it one solid color, just weave in ends)

Size: Child (appx. ages 8-12)
Chain 6, join to form ring, Chain 2
Round 1: 11 DC in ring, join to first DC, chain 2 (11 DC)
Round 2: 2 DC in each around, join, chain 2 (22 DC)
Round 3: (DC in first, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (33 DC)
Round 4: (DC in first 2, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (44 DC)
Round 5: (DC in first 10, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (48 DC)
Round 6: (DC in first 11, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (52 DC)
Round 7: (DC in first 12, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (56 DC)
Round 8: (DC in first 13, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (60 DC)
Round 9: (DC in first 14, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (64 DC)
Rounds 10-14: DC in each around, join, chain 2 (64 DC)
Finish off. (Start on Earflap 1, if doing Earflaps/Ties. If doing a border in a contrasting color, start at Edging/Border section here. OR, if you want it one solid color, just weave in ends)

Size: Teen/Adult (appx. ages 13 & Up)
Chain 6, join to form ring, Chain 2
Round 1: 11 DC in ring, join to first DC, chain 2 (11 DC)
Round 2: 2 DC in each around, join, chain 2 (22 DC)
Round 3: (DC in first, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (33 DC)
Round 4: (DC in first 2, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (44 DC)
Round 5: (DC in first 10, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (48 DC)
Round 6: (DC in first 11, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (52 DC)
Round 7: (DC in first 12, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (56 DC)
Round 8: (DC in first 13, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (60 DC)
Round 9: (DC in first 14, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (64 DC)
Round 10: (DC in first 15, 2 DC in next) repeat around, join, chain 2 (68 DC)
Rounds 11-14: DC in each around, join, chain 2 (68 DC)Finish off. (Start on Earflap 1, if doing Earflaps/Ties. If doing a border in a contrasting color, start at Edging/Border section here. OR, if you want it one solid color, just weave in ends)

Earflaps
(be sure to pick the right one for your size beanie)

Earflaps for 0-3 Months - Preschooler

Starting at where you finished off your beanie, skip the right amount of stitches for your size beanie and start Earflap 1 in next stitch. Skip 6 stitches for 0-3 Months size, skip 7 for 3-6 Months size, skip 8 for 6-9 Months size, skip 9 for 9-12 Months size, & skip 10 for Toddler/Preschooler sizes.

Earflap 1:
Row 1: Chain 1, SC in next 10, chain 1, turn (10 SC)
Row 2: SC decrease, SC in next 6, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (8 ST)
Row 3: SC across, chain 1, turn (8 SC)
Row 4: SC decrease, SC in next 4, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (6 ST)
Row 5: SC across, chain 1, turn ( 6 SC)
Row 6: SC decrease, SC in next 2, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (4 ST)
Row 7: SC across, chain 1, turn (4 SC)
Row 8: Make 2 SC decreases, (If you are doing braided ties: at this point chain 4, turn, and sl st to last stitch. Finish off here & start Earflap 2) chain 1, turn (2 ST)
Row 9: SC decrease (1 ST)
Finish off. Start on Earflap 2.

Starting at other side of Earflap 1 (where you put your last stitch from Row 1), skip the right amount of stitches and start Earflap 2 in next stitch. Skip 12 stitches for 0-3 Months size, skip 14 for 3-6 Months size, skip 16 for 6-9 Months size, skip 18 for 9-12 Months size, & skip 20 for Toddler/Preschooler sizes.

Earflap 2:
Row 1: Chain 1, SC in next 10, chain 1, turn (10 SC)
Row 2: SC decrease, SC in next 6, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (8 ST)
Row 3: SC across, chain 1, turn (8 SC)
Row 4: SC decrease, SC in next 4, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (6 ST)
Row 5: SC across, chain 1, turn ( 6 SC)
Row 6: SC decrease, SC in next 2, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (4 ST)
Row 7: SC across, chain 1, turn (4 SC)
Row 8: Make 2 SC decreases, (If you are doing braided ties: at this point chain 4, turn, and sl st to last stitch. Finish off here) chain 1, turn (2 ST)
Row 9: SC decrease (1 ST)
Do NOT Finish off, start your Edging/Border here using the same yarn first

Earflaps for Child - Adult

Starting at where you finished off your beanie, skip the right amount of stitches for your beanie size and start Earflap 1 in next stitch. Skip 10 stitches for Child size, & skip 11 for Teen/Adult size.

Earflap 1:
Row 1: Chain 1, SC in next 12, chain 1, turn (12 SC)
Row 2: SC decrease, SC in next 8, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (10 ST)
Row 3: SC across, chain 1, turn (10 SC)
Row 4: SC decrease, SC in next 6, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (8 ST)
Row 5: SC across, chain 1, turn ( 8 SC)
Row 6: SC decrease, SC in next 4, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (6 ST)
Row 7: SC across, chain 1, turn ( 6 SC)
Row 8: SC decrease, SC in next 2, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (4 ST)
Row 9: SC across, chain 1, turn (4 SC)
Row 10: Make 2 SC decreases, (If you are doing braided ties: at this point chain 4, turn, and sl st to last stitch. Finish off here & start Earflap 2) chain 1, turn (2 ST)
Row 11: SC decrease (1 ST)
Finish off. Start on Earflap 2.
Starting at other side of Earflap 1 (where you put your last stitch from Row 1), skip the right amount of stitches and start Earflap 2 in next stitch. Skip 20 stitches for Child size, & skip for 22 Teen/Adult size.

Earflap 2:
Row 1: Chain 1, SC in next 12, chain 1, turn (12 SC)
Row 2: SC decrease, SC in next 8, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (10 ST)
Row 3: SC across, chain 1, turn (10 SC)
Row 4: SC decrease, SC in next 6, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (8 ST)
Row 5: SC across, chain 1, turn ( 8 SC)
Row 6: SC decrease, SC in next 4, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (6 ST)
Row 7: SC across, chain 1, turn ( 6 SC)
Row 8: SC decrease, SC in next 2, SC decrease, chain 1, turn (4 ST)
Row 9: SC across, chain 1, turn (4 SC)
Row 10: Make 2 SC decreases, (If you are doing braided ties: at this point chain 4, turn, and sl st to last stitch. Finish off here.) chain 1, turn (2 ST)
Row 11: SC decrease (1 ST)
Do NOT Finish off, start your Edging/Border here using the same yarn first

Edging/Border

It's best when you have added earflaps to do a border in that same color of the earflaps first, and then another border in the contrasting color. This will give you a better looking edge, taking care of any weird gaps caused by different size stitches. So, chain 1 (after last stitch from earflap) & then SC around entire beanie in that same color, join to first SC. Then change to the contrasting color (Ishowed below how I do that) & SC around entire beanie again (make sure that if you are doing Regular Ties, that you do them at the points of the earflaps starting immediately after changing colors for second border)

Changing colors: End your last row by starting an SC into last stitch, but do not pull through loops on hook. So with the color your ending: yarn over, insert hook into last stitch, pull up a loop. Then get your second color: yarn over, pull through both loops on hook, slip stitch to first SC of round. Color change complete! Now, Chain 1 with this new color and continue with your border.

***I TURN MY BEANIES INSIDE OUT AT THIS POINT, OR WHEN I'M DONE BECAUSE I FEEL THE "INSIDE" WHILE YOU'RE WORKING ACTUALLY TURNS OUT LOOKING THE BEST.***

Ties

Braided Ties

Cut yarn out of desired colors (1-3 colors) in 36" strands (9 total). Fold in half and grab at the loop that forms at the halfway point. Pull that loop through the ch-4 space from last row on Earflap. Open loop up and pull through the strands left (this makes a sort of knot to keep the braid on there and will double your strands, leaving you with 18).
Divide yarn into three groups, keeping in mind how the colors will come out looking, and braid until desired length. Tie another knot to finish off and cut ends so that only about an inch to an inch and a half hang down. **I usually make the braids about 5 1/2 inches long (from knot to knot) for 0-9 months and almost 9 inches long (from knot to knot) for the bigger sizes**

Regular Ties

Starting at the end of each earflap, chain 40 (or as long/short as you wish), SC in 4th chain from hook and the rest of the way down the chain.
After doing both ties, attach Tassels or Pom-Poms.

Tassels

Cut a piece of cardboard 3" square (or use the width of your palm). Wind a strand of yarn around the cardboard approximately 30 times (or however thick you want it) and cut it.
Cut a small length of yarn and insert it under all of the strands at the top of the cardboard; pull up tightly and tie securely. Leave the yarn ends long enough to attach the tassel to the beanie. Cut the yarn at the opposite end of the cardboard and then put the cardboard aside. Cut small length of yarn and, 1 inch below the top, wrap it tightly around the tassel twice; tie securely. Trim the ends and attach to beanie.

Pom-Poms

Cut a piece of cardboard 3" square (or use the width of your palm). Wind a strand of yarn around the cardboard approximately 30 times (or however thick you want it) and cut it. Carefully slide off of your hand or the cardboard, being careful to make sure it keeps the same shape.
Cut about 15" length of yarn and place behind at the middle; wrap around and tie securely, making sure it stays at the middle. Leave the yarn ends long enough to attach the pom-pom to the beanie. Cut the yarn at the opposite both ends of the pom-pom to make the edges. Trim the ends, fluff it up, and attach to the beanie.

First Crocheting Projects

The next thing I did after getting the hang of crocheting, was to go back to Walmart and look for more yarn. Well, I ended up finding another couple books with patterns in them, mostly baby stuff. The book titles are listed below, and I also found them at Hobby Lobby (for reference). I found out how fun baby stuff was to make and started pumping out things, even though I had no babies to make stuff for (my son is a toddler and too old for that stuff). Again, I won't post the patterns for these because I actually had to pay for them. You can find some general hat patterns for free online, but the diaper covers in this book are better than any free ones I've found online (it is more contoured like a diaper really is).

The first book I bought was one for 5 different sets of Hat & Diaper Covers, which I had so much fun making. (My phone doesn't take very great picture, so I apologize for the quality).....