The Mother Lode

Crafts and Crochet

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Margarita Earrings

I think I learned to like margaritas at El Rodeo in Blacksburg, VA. My husband was in graduate school at Virginia Tech and El Rod’s had delicious food and frosty margaritas! I’m not a huge drinker: beer is gross, wine gives me a headache, and hard seltzer is just seltzer that is even worse than regular seltzer. BUT I can down a margarita like a college kid on spring break! A few months ago, my forever friends group text was giggling over one of those funny memes that said “What actually runs in the veins of the 16 personality types” and mine was margarita mix.

Anyway, I had the idea that some margarita earrings would be fun! I had to search FAR and WIDE for the color I wanted of crochet thread, though. My husband found it on Etsy. So if you are looking for that Wasabi color in Aunt Lydia’s Crochet thread and can’t find it in store, check there! I also think the WeCrochet’s Curio thread in color Jalapeño would work. You could also opt for a strawberry marg! Some of my testers made those and they were cute!

I would call this pattern intermediate since crochet thread takes some experience, but it is actually pretty simple if you are familiar with crocheting in the round. You will basically be crocheting a tiny circle for the bottom of the glass and then a small cup shape for the top, then attaching the beads and sewing the parts together. I put 2 full pages of photos in the premium version of the pattern, which you can snag for a low cost on Ravelry or LoveCrafts!

Okay, let’s get to it!

Supplies

  • Aunt Lydia’s Crochet Thread, size 10 in color Wasabi, approx 20 yds
  • Size 1.50 mm crochet hook
  • Tapestry needle and scissors
  • Earring findings: 2 fishhook style earrings
  • 6 size 6/0 beads, preferably green to match your glass
  • Fabric stiffener, like Aleene’s Fabric Stiffening Spray

Stitches (US Terms)

  • ch = chain
  • sc = single crochet
  • sl st = slip stitch
  • st/sts = stitch/stitches
  • MC = magic circle
  • dc = double crochet

Notes

  • Photo tutorial available in low cost PDF: Ravelry or LoveCrafts
  • You should block these in order to make the stems of the “glass” straight. I use Aleene’s Fabric Stiffening Spray and t-pins on a blocking mat.
  • Pattern is worked in two pieces and sewn together.
  • Pattern is worked in joined rounds.

Gauge

Gauge is not really necessary for this pattern. Personally, I find the smallest hook I can handle for the thread size (for earrings) produces the best, tightly stitched look. If you desire to gauge swatch: use double crochet in 5 rows with 11 sts to equal a 1 inch square.

Instructions

To make the bottom of the glass:

Round 1: Leave a long tail at the beginning then: MC, sc 6 into MC and sl st to join. (6 sc)

Round 2: Ch 1, (dc in next st, 2 dc in next st) repeat 2 more times, sl st to first st to join. Fasten off. (9 dc)

Weave in remaining end, thread tail from beginning MC through the center of the circle. Thread the 3 beads onto this and set aside.

To make the top of the glass:

Round 1: MC, sc 4 into MC and sl st to join. (4 sc)

Round 2: Ch 1, 2 sc in each st around, sl st to join. (8 sc)

Round 3: Ch 1, sc each st around, sl st to join. (8 sc)

Round 4: Ch 1, 2 sc in each st around, sl st to join. (16 sc)

Round 5: Ch 1, (sc, sc, 2 sc) repeat 4 more times around, sc in last st of round, sl st to join. (21 sc)

Round 6-7: Ch 1, sc in each st around. (21 sc) Fasten off after round 7. Weave in end.

If they aren’t turning out as you like, remember that the premium version on Ravelry and LoveCrafts has photos with step by step instructions! Or feel free to send me an email [email protected] and I’ll try my best to help you out!

Use tail with beads on it to sew to the bottom of the upper glass part. Pull firmly to set it in place as straight as possible. Pin to blocking mat, and spray generously with fabric stiffening spray to stiffen your earring.

When the earrings are dry, finish by attaching first a jump ring, then a fish hook style earring finding.

I would love to see your hard work!!!! Share with me on Instagram! You can use the hashtags #margaritaearrings or #motherlodecrafts

Here are some of my other crochet patterns:

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Simple Summer Headband

Hi! I have a fun and simple headband pattern for you today! I designed this for two purposes/reasons. First of all, I love hand-dyed yarn because, well, there is no denying its beauty and quality! It is costly because of this though, so I want to use up every scrap. I have some yarn leftover from my advent calendar from the fantastic Rita Mae Yarns and wanted to use it for another hair accessory for summer. Secondly, I have been enjoying making yarn music videos on my Instagram account, and I wanted to do Meghan Trainor’s All About That Bass which I turned into All About Crochet. (I crack myself up, clearly.) Anyway, she wears headbands all throughout that music video so this was born of that!

I can’t say what my next design will be because I’m working on a few things and I’m not sure what will be ready for testers yet, but I have earrings planned and hopefully some kitchen items I’m working on the design for with one of my new favorite yarns: Caron Cotton Ripple Cakes. I just finished a tank top with it and it was really fun to work with. My mom used it for some beautiful trivets for wedding shower gifts a few weeks ago, and I think the texture will be just right for a handy kitchen wipe. If only I could crochet as fast as I think!

Alright enough rambling about crochet and on to the pattern! This pattern is a nice beginner pattern, but you still might want the PDF because there are quite a few rows and it will be easier to check off as you work. It’s only $2, less than a fancy coffee! Available on Ravelry and LoveCrafts.

Summer Vibes Blog Hop!

If you missed snagging the free PDF as part of the Summer Vibes Blog Hop, you can still get it at a HUGE discount by purchasing the Blog Hop Bundle! This Bundle has ALL the patterns from the blog hop: 39 patterns! For less than $13! Here is the link to purchase! Go to the pattern round up below if you want to see all the patterns. Then “hop” back here and use the link above to get it for yourself! Think of the pattern stockpile you’ll have!

You’ll need 100 yards of that fabulous hand-dyed yarn from your stash, or any fingering weight yarn you want to use up! I’m working on my third headband now (I want to film a cool time-lapse video for Instagram.) So don’t get mad if you end up making more than one! You’ll also need a 3.25 mm crochet hook, or whatever helps you meet gauge.

Additional Materials

  • 100 yds/10g Sock/fingering/baby/sport yarn super fine CYC weight 1 OR 2 to meet gauge (Samples are Rita Mae Yarns in Berries N’ Cream and Universal Yarn Finn in Rose Quartz)
  • crochet hook US size D (3.25mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
  • tapestry sewing needle
  • scissors and measuring tape

Stitches (US Terms)

  • ch = chain
  • esc = extended single crochet: insert hook into st, yo, draw through the st, yo and pull through one loop on hook, yo, pull through both loops on hook.
  • sl st = slipstitch
  • BLO = back loop only
  • st/sts = stitch/stitches
  • dec = 1 esc in 2 sts: insert hook into st, yo, draw through the st, yo and pull through one loop, insert hook in next st, yo draw through st, yo and pull through one loop on hook, yo pull through all 3 loops on hook.
  • sk = skip

Notes

  • Finished Dimensions: Approx 26 in X 1 in
  • I suggest blocking this headband to get it very straight and make sure the ends don’t curl.
  • Photo guide pages 5 and 6 will help you check your work.
  • Stitch counts are marked with parentheses ( ) at the end of each row. Repeating rows also have a number of rows marked at the end with { }

Gauge Swatch

Chain 10, esc in 2nd ch from hook and each remaining st. (9 esc) Ch 1 and turn. *Esc each st across. Repeat from * for 6 more rows. Square should be 1 inch by 1 inch. (9 esc sts in 8 rows)

Instructions

Ch 3.

Row 1: 2 esc in 2nd chain from hook, 2 esc in next st. Ch 1, turn. (4 esc)

Row 2: Esc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (4 esc)

Row 3: 2 esc in first st, esc until last st, 2 esc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (6 esc)

Row 4: Esc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (6 esc)

Row 5: 2 esc in first st, esc until last st, 2 esc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (8 esc)

Row 6-7: Esc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (8 esc)

Row 8: Dec, esc in each st until last two, dec in last two sts. Ch 1, turn. (6 esc)

Row 9: Esc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (6 esc)

Row 10: Dec, esc in each st until last two, dec in last two sts. Ch 1, turn. (4 esc)

Row 11-19: Esc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (4 esc) {9 rows}

Row 20: 2 esc in first st, esc until last st, 2 esc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (6 esc)

Row 21-47: Esc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (6 esc) {27 rows}

Row 48-78: Esc BLO in eash st across. Ch 1, turn. (6 esc BLO) {30 rows}

Row 79-111: Esc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (6 esc) {32 rows}

Row 112: Dec, esc in each st until last two, dec in last two sts. Ch 1, turn. (4 esc)

Row 113-122: Esc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (4 esc) {9 rows}

Row 123: 2 esc in first st, esc until last st, 2 esc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (6 esc)

Row 124: Esc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (6 esc)

Row 125: 2 esc in first st, esc until last st, 2 esc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (8 esc)

Row 126-127: Esc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (8 esc)

Row 128: Dec, esc in each st until last two, dec in last two sts. Ch 1, turn. (6 esc)

Row 129: Esc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (6 esc)

Row 130: Dec, esc in each st until last two, dec in last two sts. Ch 1, turn. (4 esc)

Row 131: Esc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (4 esc)

Row 132: Dec twice. Ch 1, turn. (2 esc)

Row 133: sk first st, sl st in 2nd st. Fasten off and weave in ends. Tie with a square knot at the two thinner areas near each end of the band.

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Flower Cluster Stud Crochet Earrings

Well summer is knocking on the door here in Pennsylvania and I am glad for it! I will be making earrings all summer long! They are such fun, quick projects. I love to make them for myself and they make great gifts, because they always fit.

Aren’t these fun?! I gave this pair to my mom for Mother’s Day! Now I’m making another pair for myself.

I like flowers! I am always cutting flowers from our yard and bringing them inside to put in vases. It’s one of my favorite things to bring the outside in. I just started planting flowers this week as we had to wait until the tree stumps were ground out (if you didn’t read my last post, we had several trees taken out.) I can’t wait for them to fill in and sit on my back patio, drinking my fave diet Pepsi, watching the kids play, and crocheting!

These flower cluster stud earrings turned out so fun! I like to wear stud earrings because I have long hair and sometimes big dangly ones get caught in my hair. BUT I still want the studs to stand out, so here you go with these big beauties! You’ll need three colors of Aunt Lydia’s Crochet Thread, size 6/0 beads, and flat back stud earring findings. I used a 1.4 mm size hook, but you could use a little bigger or smaller. As long as you stitch tightly they’ll look great!

This pair is made with Aunt Lydia’s Crochet Thread size 10 in colors Maize, Mint, and Ocean. What colors would you use?

As usual, I like to offer the pattern for free here on the blog! You can read all the instructions and necessary information below. However, I also created a PDF version of the pattern! The PDF is available for a low cost on Ravelry and LoveCrafts. It is 9 pages long and includes 5 pages of photo tutorial. This pattern is an intermediate pattern, but the photo tutorial is pretty extensive so if you are a confident beginner I think you could manage.

I’m having such fun participating in the May Flowers Blog Hop being hosted by Stardust Crochet! Head over to her blog to check out all the amazing flower themed patterns! As part of the event I’m offering a discount on ANY of my earring patterns in my ravelry shop. Through the end of May 2024, use the code EARS40 to take 40% off any of my earring patterns like these:

For the Love Earrings
Christmas Wreath Earrings
Cherry Blossom Earrings

But no worries if you want to use the free version here on the blog! Sometimes I like to use the blog version of a pattern, then if I need more help or think I’m going to make something over and over, I purchase the PDF. So here you go:

Supplies

  • Aunt Lydia’s Crochet Thread, size 10 in three colors, one preferably green for the leaf 10 yards each color
  • Size 1.40 mm crochet hook
  • Tapestry needle and scissors
  • Earring findings: 2 posts/stud earring findings
  • E600 jewelry glue or Gorilla glue
  • 16 size 6/0 beads, preferably 8 green ones for the leaf

Stitches (US Terms)

  • ch=chain
  • sc=single crochet
  • sl st= slip stitch
  • st/sts=stitch/stitches
  • MC=magic circle
  • dc=double crochet
  • tr=treble crochet
  • sc w/bead= single crochet with bead: insert hook into st, yarn over, pull through. Push bead down next to hook, push towards Right Side with finger from behind. Yarn over and pull through both loops on hook.

Notes

  • You can choose to block these if you would like them to keep shape better. I use Aleene’s Fabric Stiffening Spray and t-pins on a blocking mat.
  • At end of round 3 of leaf, do not join, continue in the round.

Gauge

Gauge is not really necessary for this pattern. If you want it: swatch of double crochet should be 5 rows of 11 sts to equal 1 inch. Personally, I find the smallest hook I can handle for the yarn (for earrings) produces the best, tightly stitched look.

I used Aunt Lydia’s thread for these, because that is what I had at the time, BUT I’ve been making all my earrings with WeCrochet’s Curio 10 recently! The color selections are lovely and they have a nice sheen to them that Aunt Lydia’s doesn’t. If you’ve never tried it before, I highly recommend it. They even have a multipack so you can experiment with color!


Complete Curio #10 Value Pack

Instructions

To make the 1st leaf:

First, thread 4 green beads onto your green thread.

Round 1: MC, sc 6 into MC and sl st to join. (6 sc)

Round 2: 2 sc in each st around, sl st to first st to join. (12 sc)

Round 3: Ch 3, sk 1st st, sl st next st, *sc next st, 2 sc next st, repeat from*. (15 sc, 1 ch-3 space, 1 sl st)

Round 4: (sc, ch 3, sc) into ch-3 space, (sc, 2 sc) 3 times, [sc w/bead, 2 sc] 4 times, sc next 2, (sc, ch 3, sc) into ch-3 space, sl st next 2 sts, fasten off. (23 sc, 4 sc w/bead, 2 sl sts, 2 ch-3 spaces)

Use invisible finish method to finish off. (After last st, cut yarn and thread though tapestry needle. Insert under next st, then into the middle of last st and pull to create invisible finish.)

Weave in end and trim.

For the 2nd leaf:

First, thread 4 green beads onto your green thread.

Round 1: MC, sc 6 into MC and sl st to join. (6 sc)

Round 2: 2 sc in each st around, sl st to first st to join. (12 sc)

Round 3: Ch 3, sk 1st st, sl st next st, *sc next st, 2 sc next st, repeat from*. (15 sc, 1 ch-3 space, 1 sl st)

Round 4: (sc, ch 3, sc) into ch-3 space, sc, 2 sc, [sc w/bead, 2 sc] 4 times, (sc, 2 sc) 3 times, (sc, ch 3, sc) into ch-3 space, sl st next 2 sts, fasten off. (23 sc, 4 sc w/bead, 2 sl sts, 2 ch-3 spaces)

To make the large flower: (5 petals)

Round 1: Make MC, sc 7 into MC. (7 sc)

Round 2: Sl st to join, ch 2, (dc,tr,dc) in next st, ch 2, sl st in next st, *ch 2 (dc, tr, dc) in same as sl st, ch 2, sl st in next st repeat from * three times, sl st in remaining st. (6 sl st, 10 dc, 5 tr)

Fasten off, leaving an 8 in strand of thread. Fold the petals inwards to create a partially closed flower. Clasp closed petals with fingers and use tail to sew tightly into place, criss-crossing through the bottom ball of the flower. (See photos pg 8.) Weave thread up through the middle, remove needle and thread one bead. Reattach needle and sew tightly into middle of flower. Repeat for the other two beads, then weave end through bottom of flower and cut thread.

To make the small flower: (3 petals)

Round 1: Make MC, sc 4 into MC. (4 sc)

Round 2: Sl st to join, ch 2, (dc,tr,dc) in next st, ch 2,* sl st in next st, ch 2 (dc, tr, dc) in same as sl st, ch 2, repeat from *, sl st in remaining st. (6 dc, 3 tr, 4 sl st)

Fasten off, leaving an 8 in strand of thread. Fold the petals inwards to create more of a closed flower. Clasp closed petals with fingers and use tail to sew into place as desired, criss-crossing through the bottom ball of the flower. (See photos pg 8.) Weave thread up through the middle, remove needle and thread one bead. Reattach needle and sew tightly into middle of flower. Weave end into bottom of flower and cut thread.

Attach flowers tightly to the leaf close together for the clustered look.

Block your pieces using pins and stiffening spray if you’d like. You may block each piece individually, then glue together, or attach with yarn, then block the entire piece.

Use Gorilla glue or E600 jewelry glue to attach flat back posts to middle of the leaf.

Some of my earring patterns are a little easier, this one is definitely a bit fiddly. If you think you need more guidance, the PDF has a full photo tutorial. Remember it’s 40% off through end of May! Code is EARS40

Ravelry

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Spring Triangles Cowl

Happy Spring! We’ve started this spring with a giant overhaul of our lawn and garden. We love having a vegetable patch, but the space that was here when we bought our house doesn’t actually get enough sun AND it’s in the middle of the backyard. SO my sweet husband built a little raised garden bed and we are going to put it on the side of our house where the sun shines. Then we decided we needed more rock and mulch. We cut a large flower bed out in the front yard where the grass is spotty because it is so shady. We’ve been wanting to take down some trees (they were unhealthy hemlocks that were crowded together,) and we’re in the middle of that right now! This week they got the trees down, next week they’ll take the stumps out. Fingers crossed in a few weeks I will be planting ALL the flowers and veggies and then crocheting on my back patio while my boys play soccer, climb trees, and dig in the dirt.

Can you spot “the tree guy?” He told us he loves climbing trees!

I’m sure we are in for a few more chilly days to wear this cowl! It actually was very wintery here today, we even had snow flurries! You’ll need some worsted weight yarn: about 315 yards (one of my testers used Caron Simply Soft and one skein was the perfect amount!) I used some gorgeous merino worsted yarn from my favorite yarn dyer Rita Mae Yarns. She has such wonderful colors! A size J hook should work for you, but check the gauge below just in case. I hope you love this cowl, I’m really proud of the stitch pattern and I’m working on a shawl with it!

I’ve got the free version of the pattern right here for you, with written instructions and a few photos. A PDF is also available for $3 on Ravelry and Lovecrafts! The PDF includes everything below ready to print as well as photo tutorial pages for the stitches. It’s especially helpful if you need to learn the foundation chain.

Supplies

  • 315 yards worsted weight yarn (CYC 4) samples used Rita Mae
  • Yarns Worsted Merino in colorway Hey Mrs. Robinson OR Caron
  • Simply Soft in colorway Orchid
  • crochet hook US size J (6 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
  • tapestry sewing needle
  • scissors and measuring tape

Stitches (US terms)

  • ch = chain
  • sl st = slipstitch
  • st/sts = stitch/stitches
  • tr = treble crochet
  • dc = double crochet
  • sc = single crochet
  • fdc = foundation double crochet

Notes

  • Photo tutorial follows the written instructions.
  • Finished Dimensions: 26 in around, 13 in wide, 11 in tall
  • Stitch counts are marked at the end of each round in parentheses.
  • Pattern is worked in the round without turning.
  • In round 1, the ch-3 does not count as a stitch. Join to the 1st fdc st.
  • In round 3, the first ch-3 will end up as the last tr of the round and counts as a stitch.

Gauge

14 sts of dc in 7 rows = 4in x 4in

Written Instructions

Round 1: Fdc 100, sl st to beg fdc to form a circle, being careful not to twist the chain. Ch 1, do not turn. (100 fdc)
Round 2: *Sc next 3 sts, sl st in next st, ch 3, sl st in next st, repeat from * to end of round, with final sl st in the first sc from the round. (60 sc, 40 sl st)
Round 3: Ch 3, sk 5 sts, then 5 trin the first ch-3 space, *sk 5 sts, 5 tr in next ch-3 space, repeat from *, ending with 4 tr in the last ch-3 space of round, join with sl st to the first tr from last round. (99 tr, 1 ch-3 which counts as the last tr of the round)
Rounds 4-23: Repeat rounds 2 and 3, alternating. End with a repeat of round 3 on round 23.
Round 24: Sc in each st around. (100 sc)
Round 25: Ch 1, dc in each st around, sl st to beg dc to join. Fasten off.
(100 dc)

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Heart Tassel Earrings

It’s almost Valentine’s Day and I am juuuuuuuust squeaking out this pattern in time! These sweet crochet earrings work up fast, though, so they can definitely be finished in time to wear on Sunday. (Although, there aren’t too many people venturing out for Valentine’s day right now due to the pandemic! Right?!)

Well, I will be at home, making some kind of fancy-ish dinner for my husband and maybe chicken nuggets for my children because, let’s face it, that’s what they want anyway! Last year I made homemade pizza for Valentine’s Day and did one as a heart shape. They liked that, maybe I’ll do that again! If I put a fancy ingredient on the pizza does that make it fancy? I’m thinking yes!

Alright to the pattern: I made a beautiful shawl last year with some hand-dyed yarn. I had a bit leftover and designed my Hairbow Scrunchie pattern with it, and I loved being able to use the scraps of the fancy, expensive yarn. In thinking about a Valentine’s earring design, I decided to use the scrap hand-dyed sock yarn again! I’m still working on a pair of socks with my advent calendar yarn, but I know I won’t use it all. Sometimes the struggle is real for estimating how much yarn you need for a project and so often we end up with leftovers. I think this pattern highlights that you can always find a use for that last little bit of precious yarn for something fun. These are especially great if you’ve never made crochet earrings before and want to give it a try!

If you are a beginning crocheter, there is a low cost PDF available on Ravelry. It has a full photo tutorial for each step! Otherwise the pattern is free below!!!!

Supplies

  • Scrap sock yarn (CYC 1), maybe 10 yards or so. Sample uses Rita Mae Yarns Sweet Pea Sock in color Mama’s Special Grape Juice.
  • Size 2.25 mm crochet hook
  • Tapestry needle and scissors
  • Earring findings: 2 fish hook style or 2 posts (will need Gorilla glue or similar for posts)
  • (Optional) 2 6mm jump rings

Stitches (US terms)

ch = chain
sc = single crochet
sl st = slip stitch
st/sts = stitch/stitches
MC = magic circle
dc = double crochet
tr = treble crochet
hdc = half double crochet

Special Stitches

picot = ch 3, sl st in back bump of 1st ch.

Notes

  • You can choose to block the heart if you would like them to keep shape better. I use Aleene’s Fabric Stiffening Spray and t-pins on a blocking mat.

Gauge

Gauge is not really necessary for this pattern. It depends on the size you would like the earrings to be. Personally, I find the smallest hook I can handle for the yarn (for earrings) produces the best, tightly stitched look.

Written Instructions

To make the heart:

Round 1: MC, sc 8 into MC and sl st to join. (8 sc)

Round 2: Ch 1, 3 tr in 1st st, dc in next st, hdc next st, sc next st, picot, sc next st, hdc next st, dc next st, 3 tr next st, ch 1, sl st into the join st from round 1. (6 tr, 2 dc, 2 hdc, 2 sc, 1 picot, 1 sl st, 2 ch)

Use invisible finish method to finish off. (After last st, cut yarn and thread though tapestry needle. Insert under next st, then into the middle of last st and pull to create invisible finish.)

Weave in end and trim. Pull MC tightly, weave in remaining end and trim.

To make tassel:

Cut a strip of cardstock to 1 inch. Wrap yarn around approximately 8 times. Cut.

Insert hook under yarn, grab a 3 inch strand of yarn and pull through, tie tightly. Remove cardstock and tie tightly once more. Cut tassel.

Use washi tape or masking tape to affix top and bottom of tassel to table or other flat surface. Use another 3 inch strand of yarn to tie around top half of tassel. Wrap around a few times, then thread end through tapestry needle and weave into middle of tassel through to the bottom. Trim tassel bottom as desired.

Additional Assembly Instructions

Block your heart using pins and stiffening spray if you’d like. The heart seems to keep it’s shape pretty well without blocking, though, especially if you stitch tightly.

You can assemble in a few different ways depending on what you prefer and what jump rings you have. Here are some suggestions:

Option 1: Use Gorilla glue/super glue to attach flat back posts to middle of heart for simple heart stud earrings.
Option 2: Attach fish hook earring finding to final st at top of heart.
Option 3: Attach tassel into picot at bottom of heart with a jump ring. Attach fish hook style earring to top of heart with 2 jump rings.
Option 4: Attach tassel into picot at bottom of heart with method above. Attach fish hook style earring to top of heart with 2 jump rings.

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5 Great DIY Gifts Under $5

Okay, Christmas is coming and you need some DIY gift suggestions. I got you covered! I think there are many DIY gifts that you could give someone that are very inexpensive, EASY, and thoughtful. Personally, I love being creative and figuring stuff out with my craft supplies, but I know fooling around with items like that isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. BUT. Everyone has the ability to create. It doesn’t have to be a masterpiece to be made with intention and love! Allow me to give you some ideas that are easy and FUN.

Crochet (or knit) Hat

Basic crochet and knitting supplies are inexpensive and pretty accessible. Personally, I’m a Michael’s junkie, but JoAnn Fabrics sometimes lures me in, too. Walmart carries some craft supplies, and for a complete beginner, this is my suggestion. Grab this crochet hook for less than $1.50. It’s tricky to see their yarn selection online, but I’m sure you could find some yarn as low as $3. Here is a nice Lion Brand Hometown for less than $3 that makes a good hat, is easy to work with and has a variety of colors. Choose a color that your loved one likes and you can definitely make them a nice simple hat. This pattern by Make and Do Crew is an amazing beginner pattern. You’ll need to learn 2 very simple stitches, and you can totally make it! (there are TONS more crochet patterns everywhere on the internet, Pinterest is a great resource for them.)

Polymer Clay ANYTHING

People of the world: polymer clay is so cool. I got some last year to make a topper for my son’s birthday cake of a random Pokemon character, and it was fun and easy to cure. We used the leftovers to make Christmas ornaments and they turned out SO great. You could buy 2 colors for about $4 at Michael’s (less if you’ve got a coupon.) It can be used to make earrings, Christmas ornaments, little figurines, pen toppers, coasters, so many possibilities.

Painted Glassware

Get out the paint! One year, I painted a bunch of globe shaped candle holders for people as gifts. I think they were right about $7 each, but they were pretty large. Michael’s has a few options that are less than $5. Dollar stores usually carry a few glass items, too. It doesn’t have to be a fancy design! Just paint with colors the person likes, maybe use some tape to make stripes. Use a cotton swab to make polka dots.

Christmas Ornaments

One of the most fun to DIY, and particularly inexpensive if you are making several for someone. Michael’s is my suggestion again for materials like these glass ornaments. You could buy glue and glitter to add inside, or paint the outside. I remember dropping paint inside and swirling it around when I was little with my mom. The possibilities are pretty endless honestly, and if you are on a budget, dollar stores often have some basic craft supplies.

Plants

Air plants and succulents are still very popular! They aren’t too expensive and would make a great simple DIY gift. There are a few options at Lowe’s and Walmart. Paint a tiny ceramic pot and pop a little plant into it! Paint your friend’s name, put a simple stars, stripes, or polka dot design on it and call it a day!

Well, I am off to work on some crochet gifts for my people! Here are some of my crochet patterns that would make nice gifts, and the baby hat is very easy if you are a beginner. Just click the photo and you’ll hop right to the pattern!

Funky Chunky Headband
Hairbow Scrunchie
Almost Stripes Ear Warmer
Almost Stripes Beanie
Simple Ripples Baby Hat

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Funky Chunky Headband

November is here! I’ll decorate for Christmas in the coming weeks, work on some crochet Christmas gifts for my family, and maybe even publish a couple of patterns. Last week, I got caught up in finishing Halloween things and on Friday I called it at 4pm and said, “Priscilla, you do not have time to publish this pattern today properly. Postpone it until Monday and enjoy Trunk or Treat with your kids.” So, I did. Anyone else have to do some serious self-talk from time to time? I’m just such an idea person and get all frazzled that I need to talk myself out of (or sometimes into) certain things.

A few months ago, I was enjoying my second favorite hobby: yarn shopping. Two beautiful colors of Wool Ease Thick and Quick yarn by Lion Brand Yarn jumped out at me! I just loved the colors and had been wearing an outfit all summer that matched. SO I snatched them up and brought them home and they sat all pretty in my craft yarn room for a month.

I got the pretties out and designed a funky, modern crochet headband that will keep the chill away from your ears all winter long! I hate having cold ears. I love all the cozy hats and headbands. Sometimes, though, they get all stretched out easily and/or don’t really keep ALL the wind out. Let me tell you, friends, no wind is getting through this headband and it is staying nicely snug on your head!

Funky Chunky Headband Pattern

Alright here it is! As usual, you can use the pattern here for free, but the low-cost PDF includes photo tutorials to show you how to change colors and use the herringbone half-double crochet stitch (which I’m in love with right now. Don’t tell my husband.) It has each of the three sizes on its own page, so you can pick and choose which ones you need to print to save on ink and paper! It’s available here on Ravelry or here on Lovecrafts.

Supplies

  • 100 yards super bulky (CYC 6) yarn in two colors, sample is Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick and Quick in Succulent (70 yds) and Butterscotch (30 yds)
  • crochet hook US size N (9 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
  • tapestry sewing needle
  • scissors and measuring tape
  • stitch marker

Notes

  • Photo tutorial follows the written instructions.
  • Finished Dimensions: child: 17-18 in around, teen/adult sm: 18-19 in around, adult med/lg: 20-21 in around for a snug cozy fit.
  • Stitch counts are marked at the end of each round in parentheses.
  • Pattern is worked in the round without turning.
  • Some of the rounds state to carry the yarn. If it does not say to carry, then leave a tail and cut the yarn to be woven in later. As written, there are 10 ends to weave in. You may choose not to carry the yarn and have more ends to weave.
  • If you get confused with the color changes, look back to the last bold color and that is what color you should be working with.
  • Round 1 and 2 can be substituted with foundation sc if you find it difficult to sl st into a chain. This will also help make the brim a bit wider if you prefer.

Stitches

  • ch = chain
  • sl st = slip stitch
  • st/sts = stitch/es
  • BLO = back loop only
  • hhdc = herringbone half-double crochet: yo, insert hook, yo, pull through one loop, yo, pull through two loops.

Gauge

10 sts of hhdc in 7 rows = 4in x 4in

Ch 11, hhdc in 2nd ch from hook. Hhdc to end, ch 1, turn, *hhdc 10 sts, ch 1, turn. Repeat from * to make 7 rows. This is meant to be fairly tight, so you may need to go down a hook size to obtain gauge.

Child Size

Round 1: with color A ch 44, sl st to beg ch to form a circle, being careful not to twist the chain.

Round 2: sl st in each st around, placing a stitch marker in the first st to mark your beginning. (44 sl st)

Round 3: sl st in first 3 sts. hhdc in 16 sts, switch to color B, carrying color A behind. hhdc 14 sts, switch to color A, hhdc 8 sts, sl st next 3 sts. (6 sl st, 38 hhdc)

Round 4: sl st in first 3 sts, hhdc each st around until last 3 sts, sl st in last 3 sts.(6 sl st, 38 hhdc)

Round 5: sl st in first 2 sts, switch to color B, carrying color A behind, sl st, hhdc next 11 sts, switch to color A, carrying color B behind, hhdc in next 12 sts, switch to color B, carrying color A, hhdc 12, switch to color A, hhdc 3 sts, sl st 3 sts.(6 sl st, 38 hhdc)

Round 6: repeat round 4

Round 7: sl st in first 3 sts, hhdc 8, switch to color B, carrying color A behind, hhdc 23, switch to color A, hhdc 8, sl st in last 3 sts.(6 sl st, 38 hhdc)

Round 8: sl st 3 sts, sl st BLO in each st around until 3 remaining sts, sl st last 3 sts. Fasten off and weave in ends.(6 sl st, 38 sl st BLO)

Teen/adult small Size

Round 1: With color A ch 48,sl st to beg ch to form a circle, being careful not to twist the chain.

Round 2: sl st in each st around, placing a stitch marker in the first st to mark your beginning. (48 sl st)

Round 3: sl st in first 3 sts. hhdc in 17 sts, switch to color B, carrying color A behind. hhdc 15 sts, switch to color A, hhdc 10 sts, sl st next 3 sts.(6 sl st, 42 hhdc)

Round 4: sl st in first 3 sts, hhdc each st around until last 3 sts, sl st in last 3 sts.(6 sl st, 42 hhdc)

Round 5: sl st in first 2 sts, switch to color B, carrying color A behind, sl st, hhdc next 13 sts, switch to color A, carrying color B behind, hhdc in next 14 sts, switch to color B, carrying color A behind, hhdc in next 13 sts, switch to color A, hhdc 2 sts, sl st 3 sts.(6 sl st, 42 hhdc)

Round 6: repeat round 4

Round 7: sl st in first 3 sts, hhdc 9, switch to color B, carrying color A behind, hhdc 25, switch to color A, hhdc 8, sl st in last 3 sts.(6 sl st, 42 hhdc)

Round 8: repeat round 4

Round 9: sl st in first 3 sts, hhdc 3 sts, switch to color B, carrying color A behind, hhdc 19 sts, switch to color A, carrying color B behind, hhdc 11 sts, switch to color B, carrying color A behind, hhdc 9 sts, switch to color A,sl st 3 sts.(6 sl st, 42 hhdc)

Round 10: sl st 3 sts, sl st BLO in each st around until 3 remaining sts, sl st last 3 sts. Fasten off and weave in ends.(6 sl st, 42 sl st BLO)

Adult medium/large Size

Round 1: With color A ch 52, sl st to beg ch to form a circle, being careful not to twist the chain.

Round 2: sl st in each st around, placing a stitch marker in the first st to mark your beginning. (52 sl st)

Round 3: sl st in first 3 sts. hhdc in 19 sts, switch to color B, carrying color A behind, hhdc 17 sts, switch to color A, hhdc 10 sts, sl st next 3 sts.(6 sl st, 46 hhdc)

Round 4: sl st in first 3 sts, hhdc each st around until last 3 sts, sl st in last 3 sts.(6 sl st, 46 hhdc)

Round 5: sl st in first 2 sts, switch to color B, carrying color A behind, sl st, hhdc next 15 sts, switch to color A, carrying color B behind, hhdc in next 14 sts, switch to color B, carrying color A behind, hhdc in next 13 sts switch to color A, hhdc 4 sts, sl st 3 sts.(6 sl st, 46 hhdc)

Round 6: repeat round 4

Round 7: sl st in first 3 sts, hhdc 11, switch to color B, carrying color A behind, hhdc 26, switch to color A, hhdc 9, sl st in last 3 sts.(6 sl st, 46 hhdc)

Round 8: repeat round 4

Round 9: sl st in first 3 sts, hhdc 4 sts, switch to color B, carrying color A behind, hhdc 20 sts, switch to color A, carrying color B behind, hhdc 12 sts, switch to color B, carrying color A behind, hhdc 10 sts, switch to color A, sl st 3 sts.(6 sl st, 46 hhdc)

Round 10: sl st 3 sts, sl st BLO in each st around until 3 remaining sts, sl st last 3 sts. Fasten off and weave in ends.(6 sl st, 46 sl st BLO)

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Hair Bow Scrunchie

Are you a do-your-hair-everyday sort of person or a whatever-it’s-just-hair sort of person? Or maybe you’re a fabulous in between sort of person. The sort of person who sometimes likes to primp and fuss with hair, and sometimes just twists it into a bun and runs out the door. Maybe you often put it in a ponytail without even combing it to take your 1st grader to school in the morning. Just me?

I have three basic hairstyles: down, ponytail, bun. My new crochet hair bow scrunchie is for those days when I don’t have time for hair nonsense, but I want a little extra something. It’s actually really comfortable in my hair, and I feel more like pre-covid life when people used to leave their houses and dress up and all that? Remember that, guys? Good times.

You may be thinking: Is she really serious? What 33 year old wears a bow in her hair? Aren’t they for little girls? Probably, but I’m fun and it’s comfy so I’m wearing it. You should, too. It’s a super quick pattern, it uses a neat stitch called the Sedge Stitch, and it’s pretty versatile. Once you make one following my pattern, you could easily change yarn and hooks and make one smaller or larger. I’m working on a tiny red one for Christmastime right now! And, yes, it’s a great little quick gift pattern to make for the adorable little girls in your life. Alright, on with the pattern!

I had a large scrap of beautiful hand dyed sock yarn from Rita Mae
Yarns and I couldn’t let it go to waste! Instead of leaving it to sit
pretty in my yarn stash, I designed this hair bow scrunchie with it. It
works up pretty quickly and uses a beautiful sedge stitch for a really
great texture. This bow is perfect for ponies, but I also love it with a
big hairbun, too!
You’ll need about 75 yards of sock /fingering weight yarn for this
pattern and a thick ponytail holder.

As usual, I’ve got the written pattern below for free, and the PDF with a full photo tutorial here on Ravelry or on LoveCrafts!

Supplies

  • 75 yds/15g Sock/fingering/baby yarn, superfine CYC weight 1 yarn
  • Sample uses Rita Mae Yarns Sweet Pea Sock in Berries N’ Cream
  • crochet hook US size D (3.25mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
  • tapestry sewing needle
  • scissors
  • measuring tape
  • pony tail holder

Stitches

  • Ch = chain
  • Sc = single crochet
  • HDC = half double crochet
  • DC = double crochet
  • ss = slipstitch
  • sk = skip
  • st/sts = stitch/stitches

Gauge

Chain 11. Sc, HDC, DC in 2nd st from
hook. Sk 2 sts. Sc, HDC, DC next st. Sk
2 sts. Sc, HDC, DC next st. Sk 2 sts. Sc
last st ofrow. Ch 1, turn. Continue for
6 more rows. Square should be 1 1/2
inches by 1 1/2 inches.

Notes

  • Sc/HDC/DC is also called Sedge Stitch.
  • Within the rows, you will be working in the single crochet stitches from the previous row.
  • At the end of each row it can be very difficult to stitch into the very final stitch. You may instead work into the 2nd to last stitch, and remain consistent throughout the pattern.

Written Instructions

Body of Bow
Ch 23.
Row 1: In 2nd chain from hook, Sc, HDC, DC in same st. Sk next 2 sts.
[Sc, HDC, DC next st, sk 2 sts]repeat [ ] until last 3 sts. End row with
a Sc in the last st. Ch 1, Turn. ( 8 Sc, 7 HDC, 7 DC)
Row 2: HDC, DC into 1st Sc in the row below. Sk next 2 sts. [Sc, HDC,
DC next st, sk 2 sts]repeat [ ] until last 3 sts. End row with a Sc in the
last st. Ch 1, Turn. (7 Sc, 7 HDC, 7 DC)
Rows 3-12: Repeat Row 2. Fasten off. Leave long tail to create bow.
Rectangle should be approx 4 in by 3 in. With tail in bottom right
corner, fold rectangle up and use a tapestry needle to sew together
two sides. Turn right side out, then use mattress stitch to sew the
remaining side together. Tie off any remaining tail and cut.
Cut a length of yarn at least 12 inches. Wrap tightly around middle of
rectangle to create the bow shape. Tie a tight knot or sew the end in
firmly.

Tie around Bow
Ch 13. Sc in 2nd ch from hook and each st remaining. Turn. (12 sc)
Row 2: Ch 1, Sc in each st across. Turn.
Rows 3-4: Repeatrow 2. Fasten off.
Cut a length of yarn about 12 inches. Wrap tightly around middle of bow to
create bow shape and tie firmly.

There are now two options for attaching your bow:
1.) You can simply use the tie, wrap it tightly around the bow and a plain
ponytail holder, and sew it into place with a tapestry needle.
2.) Or you can make the pony tail holder into a scrunchie as follows:
Begin by working a HDC around the ponytail holder. Continuing to work
around the ponytail holder, HDC 4 more times, Ch 3, [5 HDC, Ch 3]
Repeat [ ] until desired fullness. Fasten off. Wrap the tie you made
around the bow and the scrunchie and attach firmly by sewing into place
with a tapestry needle.

There ya go! Fabulous, handmade, fun. Come back soon, I’ve got a chunky ear warmer pattern coming in a couple of weeks!

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All Saints’ Day Activity Pages

I’ve got some other crochet and crafty things coming soon, but for now, one more thing about All Saints’ Day!

My son’s preschool teacher asked the families for ideas to celebrate All Saints’ Day with the children. Of course, I headed to Pinterest as I knew I could find some good saint coloring pages there. I found some to represent the classroom’s patron saint for this year. There are many different saint coloring pages, but not many that are more interactive than coloring, especially not for preschoolers.

So I decided to fire up Canva (the program I use for graphics, printables, and photo tutorials.) I ended up making two similar activity sheets. One is for the children to plan their saint costume. They can add the things they are planning to wear to represent the saint to a plain, haloed face. The second sheet is to imagine what they could do to become a saint. What kinds of things would represent their good works? What would they become a patron of?

All Saints’ Day is a beautiful opportunity to enrich our children’s lives with stories of the saints. Often, though, there are parts of those saints’ lives that are difficult to convey to little children. There are some great books out there to help you, though! Our favorite is Saints on the Go by Chantal Baros. I can’t find it in print anywhere, but you can check the author’s website for other saint books, saint dolls, and coloring pages. Another popular saint book is Saintly Rhymes for Modern Times. I’m debating ordering it myself right now! It has mostly modern saints like Padre Pio, St. Teresa of Calcutta, and St. Gianna Molla. Two other good ones are Girl Saints for Little Ones and Boy Saints for Little Ones by Kimberly Fries.

These two printables have been added to my printable library! Sign up for my email list below to access my library!

I love making my kid’s All Saints’ Day costumes! Do you? Head over to my Costume Guide for All Saints’ Day! It has ideas and tips for DIY and store bought.

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Saint Costume Guide

for your kid’s All Saints’ Day costumes

Many Catholic schools over the years have transitioned into doing Halloween dress-up a bit differently! Our school has the children dress up as their favorite saints to celebrate All Saints’ Day, which is on November 1st. The feast day celebrates all those who have attained heaven and we especially celebrate those honored by the Church for giving wonderful examples of Christianity to us!

Often people misunderstand Catholicism in that they perceive our reverence for saints (especially Mary) as worship. That is not the case, though, when we ask for saints’ intercession, we are simply asking the saints to pray for us to God, because in their holiness they are close to Him.

Okay, enough theology, back to the fun! I don’t love sewing, but I DO love sewing Halloween costumes, which means I also love sewing saint costumes! That being said, saint costumes do not have to be complicated to be a good representation of the saint. Additionally, if you have multiple children in Catholic school, many items can be re-used from year to year to display different saints.

Here are the costumes I’ve done so far:

For Saint Pope John Paul II, I waited until the last minute and threw together this costume the night before! The white fabric was a knit, slightly fuzzy fabric so I was able to leave the ends unsewn. Keep that in mind if you head out to Joann Fabrics! I basically cut a small hole and slit in the middle of a long rectangle of the fabric and used velcro to attach at the back. Then I made a capelet which also attached with velcro. The papal mitre was made with yellow felt and stiff interface fabric.

For St. Francis of Assisi, I made a brown friar’s robe, which I’m sure I’ll be able to use for another saint as well in the future. I bought some rope trim to use as a belt and attached a stuffed animal wolf to the side with some velcro. The final touch was the little felt feet! St. Francis is always depicted barefoot or with sandals, so I formed the tan felt over top of his sneakers, drew the foot with a Sharpie marker, and used some elastic to secure it around his sneakers. A simple black rosary completed this costume!

DIY with some sewing

Here are my suggestions if you have a sewing machine and a little bit of time to make some garments.

  • Buy fabric at the craft store that does not have to be sewn at the edge. Fleece, knits, and velvet are great options that won’t require sewing the edges/hems. This way you can sort of drape fabric around your child to form the costume, then attach it either with a little bit of sewing, hot glue, or stick on velcro. Knit fabric can be difficult to work with if you are going to do actual sewing, though, so keep that in mind.
  • Stick on velcro can help you to create closures in the costume.
  • If this is for a preschooler or kindergartner, you may be able to use an xl t shirt for some kind of robe.
  • Felt is easy to use with hot glue and can be cut to make simple shapes that help define the costume. (like making a cross or stripes)
  • A headband and cloth can be easily used to make a religious habit if your saint was a nun.
  • Here are some tutorials for creating robes, capelets, and gowns: robe with hood, cape with hood, cape (no hood), I tried to find a free gown pattern for you, but I couldn’t! Here is a nice one you can buy, or if I had daughters, I would take the longest dress they have and lay it on top of my piece of fabric folded in half. Then cut about an inch and a half around the dress carefully and sew the pieces together, making the bottom longer if necessary.

No Sew Costume Ideas

I get it, sewing isn’t your favorite and you don’t have time to go to the craft store. What can you pick up from the Target Halloween aisle or order from Amazon? Here are a few ideas that include things you may even already have that you can use to create a saint costume:

  • St. Michael the archangel: warrior shield and breastplate and wings (hot glue + cardboard + a bag of feathers and I bet you could make some in 25 minutes) maybe even a scale
  • St. George: Suit of armor / warrior breastplate and a stuffed animal dragon
  • St. Joan of Arc: suit of armor/warrior breastplate, red cape/dress, flag with fleur-de-lys on it
  • St. Kateri Tekakwitha: a Native American costume and a small, wooden cross
  • St. Gianna Molla: a doctors coat and cross necklace
  • St. Elizabeth of Hungary: queen’s dress, crown, basket of bread
  • St. Maximilian Kolbe: striped pajamas, round glasses, book
  • St. Francis of Assisi: brown jedi robe costume (friar’s robes) with some kind of belt and a wolf
  • St. Anthony of Padua: brown jedi robe costume (friar’s robes), baby doll with halo (the Christ child) and lilies
  • St. Padre Pio: brown jedi robe costume (friar’s robes), gloves with cut off fingers to cover the stigmata
  • St. Lazarus: torn clothing and sores (maybe use some makeup?) with a crutch and stuffed animal dogs
  • The Blessed Mother/St. Mary/Our Lady of Lourdes/ Our Lady of Guadeloupe, basically all the ways to honor the Queen of Heaven: WALMART HAS SEVERAL MARY COSTUMES YOU CAN BUY. I would get that and add things to it to make it a specific Marian devotion: Our Lady of Fatima: gold and white crown and gold rope belt, maybe a sacred heart on the chest; Our Lady of Lourdes: blue sash, rosary, holy water; Queen of Heaven: crown and scepter; Our Lady, Undoer of Knots: long, knotted rope.

My last bit of advice in this guide is to use Google Images. Google the saint your child wants to be and look through all the different images of that saint. See how he/she is usually depicted and think about what things you have that could be used in your child’s costume. Also check this 2014 post from Catholic All Year to show you 150+ kid saint costumes. It’s very inspiring!

My kiddos costumes in 2021: St. George, St. Mark the Evangelist, and St. David of Wales

Update!!! I’m so happy to see this post viewed over and over throughout the month of October! I mostly write crochet patterns, and had the (I think) brilliant idea to include some crochet ideas for Saint costumes! So I have a new guide for crochet Saint costumes here for that and a new, totally free, crochet pattern here for making a Papal Mitre!

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