The Mother Lode

Crafts and Crochet

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Striking Stripes Poncho

It’s a beautiful late fall day outside and I have the perfect pattern for you to cozy up with through these cold weather months! The Striking Stripes Poncho is made with a heavy worsted yarn and will keep you feeling warm and snuggly all season long. Use 4 colors to make it fun and funky, or opt for a simpler 2 color scheme to coordinate with your wardrobe.

WeCrochet supplied me the yarn to design this pattern for the Winter Wonders blog hop! Their City Tweed yarn is super soft and squishy, and the colors are beautiful. I’m not usually a yellow fan but the Lemon Curd color is amazing!

This pattern is an easy make using mostly half double crochet stitches. It is crocheted in one flat piece, then seamed. The optional cowl neck is single crochet in the round, very simple! The yarn really shines in this poncho, so choose some colors you love! If you are subbing yarn, try to find something with some halo to it, as the WeCrochet City Tweed has a lovely halo to it.

Because I spent sooooo much time working on the sizing options for this pattern, I am not offering it free on the blog. (my next pattern will be a free one here!) BUT you can get the PDF free in the Winter Wonders Blog Hop on November 30th!!! Go to the blog round up link here for the coupon code (on Nov 30th) and come back to download your free copy via ravelry!

If you missed out on all the other beautiful patterns, consider purchasing the bundle! It’s truly a great deal, especially if you intend to make some Christmas gifts, as there is a great variety of patterns.

Okay, you’ve got the code from the blog hop round up page? Go get your pattern!

Thank you so much for supporting me! I love to keep designing and making new things and it’s possible through all the love and support of our wonderful yarnie community!

This post contains affiliate links. I make a small commission from sales made using these links, though the cost to you is the same!

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Fall Cluster Earrings!

I am so grateful to be able to share in the crochet community! It’s wonderful to collaborate with other creative people. A few years ago I participated in a Fall Earrings e-book collaboration! It was so much fun. The e-book is unavailable, but you can still get the pattern for my earrings right here!

ooo I want to make these earrings!

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Giant Lacy Scrunchie

I’m thrilled to publish this beautiful cozy scrunchie for you! I had plans for a triple scrunchie pattern earlier in the summer and it just got away from me. I was invited to a Back to School Email hop and thought one of the scrunchie designs I had been planning was perfect for the hop, so I made a couple of changes and it turned out awesome! I loved using the Lion Brand Truboo yarn for this scrunchie. It really made it extra silky and comfortable.

About the Back to School Email Hop: an email hop is a little different from a blog hop. An email hop is for crochet designers to be able to send their patterns straight to your inbox! How great is that?! So each day, the email hub hosted by Joy of Anvisgranny will direct you to sign up for a designers email list, and then you get their pattern to your email! It’s a little less “hopping” than a blog hop! My day will be Monday, August 15th! So hop to that hub post and be ready to download your free PDF of the Giant Lacy Scrunchie Pattern! Check out these amazing designs!

Alternatively, you might just want to purchase the pattern pack. Each pattern comes out to just 60 cents when you buy the pack! Here is my affiliate link for the pattern pack. If you use my link, you’ll get an additional free pattern from me! It’s my Hair Bow Scrunchie from a couple of years ago, which is still one of my favorites!

I love to offer free versions of my patterns here on the blog! Not all of my patterns are available as such, but this one is simple enough that you might like to just use this free version below! The PDF contains a photo tutorial and is easier for couch crochet, but the written instructions are exactly the same. Here is the ravelry link to purchase!

Supplies

  • 150 yds DK CYC weight 3 (Sample is Lion Brand Yarn Truboo)
  • crochet hook US size G (4.25mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
  • tapestry sewing needle
  • scissors and measuring tape
  • ponytail elastics

Stitches

ch = chain

dc = double crochet

hdc = half double crochet

fdc = foundation double crochet

v st = dc, ch 1, dc

sk = skip

st/sts = stitch/stitches

sp = space

Notes

  • Dimensions before attaching to elastic: 18 in by 4 in. Finished dimensions of scrunchie approximately 5 in diameter.
  • Turning chains count as stitches.
  • Stitch counts are marked with parentheses ( ) at the end of each row.

Gauge

Fdc 17, follow pattern repeat below.

5 rows, 11 dc sts = 2 inches

Written Instructions

Fdc 95.

Row 1: Ch 3, sk 1 st, v st in next st, *sk 2 sts, v st in next st, repeat from * until last 2 sts, dc in last st of row. Turn. (31 v sts, 2 dc)

Row 2: Ch 2, 3 hdc in each ch 1 sp, hdc in turning ch. Turn. (95 hdc)

Row 3: Ch 3, dc each st. Turn. (95 dc)

Repeat rows 1-3 two more times, then repeat only rows 1 and 2 again. Fasten off, leaving 24″ tail for sewing.

Rectangle should measure 18 inches by 4 inches.

Insert elastic ponytail holder, then sew the first row to the last, forming a tube around the elastic. Sew the ends of the tube together. You can use a mattress stitch or whipstitch to your preference.

I hope you love your scrunchie!!!!!

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It’s a CAL!

Well I am so flippin’ excited to be part of an amazing event: Spring Crochet Earring CAL! 6 designers have created beautiful crochet earring designs for you to make for spring. Led by Amber over at Bliss This, we have wonderful patterns for you to buy at a steep 55% discount! The bundle of 6 patterns is available through May 3rd for only $10.50, then the price goes up to $16.50 until May 21st, which is the last day to purchase the bundle. After that, all the patterns will be available at regular prices in each designer’s shop.

Get the bundle here!

Here are the designs in the bundle:

Xochitl Earrings by Amber Bliss This
Sunflower Ridge Earrings by Momma Grace Creations
Gloriana Earrings by Wish Upon a Hook
Spring Fling Earrings by Teal Dragonfly Creations
Lilith Earrings by Chalia’s Craft
Cherry Blossom Earrings by me!

To go with the bundle there is a CROCHET-A-LONG! It takes place on Amber’s facebook community here. You’ll get tips from the designers for making their patterns as well as general thread crochet tips, so even if you’ve never made crochet earrings before, you can still complete these!

What are you waiting for?! Go snag the bundle, then join Amber’s group for the CAL!

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Chill Stopper Cowl

It has been a WEEK here! Do you ever feel like that? You get to Friday and think “what did I even do this week?” Thank goodness this cowl pattern is SO easy that I only had a few simple corrections after my testers finished up! If it had been more complicated, it would have needed pushed back!

I’m working on a colorwork hat design, it was going well until I tried it on and realized I had made the brim FAR too large and ended up frogging the whole thing. I still have a plan for it and I think it’s going to turn out wonderful, but it is going to be a couple of weeks until I’m able to publish it. Next week I’m planning instead to share a tutorial video! It was just my birthday and my husband got me an amazing light so that I can film tutorials! I’m thrilled to be able to do that moving forward.

On to today’s pattern! You’ll need two skeins of Lion Brand Hue + Me or similar weight 5 yarn. It is a simple two row repeat with an easy seam to make this slightly textured chunky cowl! It really keeps your neck warm, and even your face. My little 5 year old asked me to make him “a circle for my neck like you” after I had been wearing another cowl all winter, so this pattern includes a child size! For the low cost PDF, head over to my pattern shops! The PDF has a photo tutorial page in addition to the instructions provided here.

Ravelry
Etsy
Lovecrafts

Supplies

  • 250 yards bulky (CYC 5) yarn, samples: Lion Brand Hue and Me, Red Heart Yarns Soft Essentials
  • crochet hook US size L (8 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
  • tapestry sewing needle
  • scissors and measuring tape

Stitches

ch = chain

sc = single crochet

st/sts = stitch/stitches

FLO = front loop only

sk = skip

hdc = half double crochet

Notes

  • Finished dimensions after seaming: child size 6.5 in by 10.5 in /adult size 10.5 in by 13 in
  • Sizes are marked with parentheses ( ) and stitch counts are marked at the end of each row in brackets [ ].
  • Pattern is worked flat and seamed at the end.
  • The right side is the side where the hdc stitches puff out more, pictured below.
  • The crossed hdc will be made by working in front of the previous stitch, not behind. Front is always the side of the work closest to you.
  • This is a beginner pattern, and all of the instructions are available here. However, there is a PDF available in my pattern shops that includes a photo tutorial page: Ravelry Etsy Lovecrafts

If you’d like to modify this pattern to get the exact fit that you want, the stitch multiple for this cowl is 2. That means you can add or subtract stitches to the beginning chain in multiples of 2 to make your cowl taller or shorter.

The pattern repeat is in rows of 2. For the best look at the seam, you want the final row to be the hdc row. If you want your cowl to be a tighter fit to the neck, you could subtract 2 rows at a time or add 2 rows to make the cowl more loose.

Gauge

4 in by 4 in swatch = 12 sts in 8 rows of the pattern repeat which is:

Row 1: Ch 15, sc each st across, ch 1, turn.

Row 2: *Sk st, hdc, hdc in skipped st, repeat from * to end, ch 1, turn.

Row 3: Sc FLO each st across, ch 1, turn.

Repeat rows 2 and 3, respectively.

Written Instructions

Child (Adult)

Row 1: Ch 25 (31), sc in 2nd ch from hook and each st across, ch 1, turn. [24 (30) sc]

Row 2: Sk first st, hdc next st, hdc in previously skipped st, *sk next st, hdc, hdc in skipped st, repeat from * across, ch 1, turn. [ 24 (30) hdc]

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Row 3: Sc FLO each st across, ch 1, turn. [24 (30) sc FLO]

Row 4- 43(47): Repeat rows 2 and 3 respectively.

Row 44 (48): Repeat row 2. Fasten off, leaving about 12 inches for seaming.

Fold right sides together and seam using the remaining end with a tapestry needle. Use whipstitch to sew together the chain row from the beginning to the the back loop of the last row. Weave in remaining ends.

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Chill Stopper Beanie

As a mom of three boys, it’s hard to “twin.” There aren’t many options for matching outfits! BUT I’ve enjoyed making us a few matching hats. I’m working towards creating more patterns for wearables for the family. Items where you can buy one or two patterns, a few colors of the same yarn, and make coordinating outfits for the whole family! Sounds great, right??!! I’m starting with this Chill Stopper set! There is a matching headband pattern here. The matching cowl comes out next week!

The Lion Brand Hue + Me is my new favorite bulky yarn! I still have a few skeins of my old favorite, Red Heart Soft Essentials, but I think it is discontinued. Two great things about this yarn: it’s super warm since it is a wool/acrylic blend, and the colors are AMAZING. Seriously you could pick a bunch of them randomly and they would look great together. I don’t know how they did it, some kind of color wizardry.

On to the pattern: you’ll need one skein of Lion Brand Hue + Me. From one skein I made an adult medium, child, and baby size, so even for a slouchy style adult size, I think one skein is enough. This beanie is easy! It’s a two row repeat that uses “crossed” half double crochet and single crochet in the FLO. You’ll need an 8mm crochet hook and scissors, tapestry needle, measuring tape. I added a removeable pom to mine and I’ve been wearing it everyday!

The PDF has a photo guide page to show the steps of the half double crochet row, as well as instructions to assemble the beanie. It’s available on ravelry and Etsy! You can work from the free version below, and if you need more help, head over and grab the PDF. It’s on sale through Feb 3rd! No code needed.

Supplies

  • 125-200 yards bulky (CYC 5) yarn, samples: Lion Brand Hue + Me, substitute: Red Heart Yarns Soft Essentials
  • crochet hook US size L (8 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
  • tapestry sewing needle
  • scissors and measuring tape
  • optional: pom/decorative buttons

Stitches

ch = chain

sc = single crochet

st/sts = stitch/stitches

FLO = front loop only

sk = skip

hdc = half double crochet

sl st = slipstitch

Notes

  • Finished dimensions: baby: 14 x 6.5 in, toddler: 16 x 7 in, child: 18 x 7 in, teen/adult sm: 20 x 8 in, adult med: 21 x 8.5 in, adult lg: 22 x 9 in, adult xl: 23 x 9 in
  • Sizes are marked with parentheses ( ) and stitch counts are marked at the end of each row in brackets [ ].
  • Pattern is worked flat and seamed at the end.
  • Work the slipstitches loosely. The slipstitch/single crochet portion will be the top of the hat.
  • The hdc row will be made by working in front of the previous stitch, not behind. Front is always the side of the work closest to you.

Gauge

4 in by 4 in swatch

12 sts in 8 rows of the pattern repeat which is:

Row 1: sc FLO

Row 2: (sk st, hdc, hdc in skipped st) repeat

Size Modification

Hats can be made in all sizes, and I want you to be able to modify this pattern to get the exact fit that you want! The stitch multiple for this hat is 2. That means you can add or subtract stitches to the beginning chain in multiples of 2 to make your hat taller or shorter. To get a slouchy fit to your hat, I suggest an extra 4 beginning chain stitches on the smaller sizes, and an extra 6 beginning chain stitches on the adult sizes.

The hat pattern repeat is in rows of 2. For the best look at the seam, you want the final row to be the hdc row. A great way to fit your hat is to have the person you are making the hat for give you a measurement around their head (go above the ears and across the eyebrows.) You want the hat to be about an inch smaller than that measurement (called head circumference.) This will ensure the hat fits without falling off! There are finished hat size measurements in the notes section. Use these to help you decide which size to make, and add or subtract rows in multiples of 2, according to your measurements for the best fit!

Baby (Toddler, Child) Leave 10 in tail at beginning for seaming

Row 1: Ch 17 (19, 21), sl st second st from hook and next three, sc each st across, ch 1, turn. [4 sl st, 12, (14, 16) sc]

Row 2: Sk first st, hdc next st, hdc in previously skipped st, *sk next st, hdc, hdc in skipped st, repeat from * to last 4 sts, sc last 4 sts, ch 1, turn. [12 (14, 16) hdc, 4 sc]

Row 3: Sl st FLO each of first 4 sts, then sc FLO each st across, ch 1, turn. [4 sl st, 12, (14, 16) sc FLO]

Row 4- 25 (29, 33): Repeat rows 2 and 3 respectively.

Row 26 (30, 34): Repeat row 2. Fasten off, leaving about 8 inches for cinching the top.

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Teen/adult small (medium, large, extra large) Leave 12 in tail at beginning for seam

Row 1: Ch 23 (25, 27, 27), sl st second st from hook and next three, sc each st across, ch 1, turn. [4 sl st, 18, (20, 22, 22) sc]

Row 2: Sk first st, hdc next st, hdc in previously skipped st, *sk next st, hdc, hdc in skipped st, repeat from * to last 4 sts, sc last 4 sts, ch 1, turn. [18 (20, 22, 22) hdc, 4 sc]

Row 3: Sl st FLO each of first 4 sts, then sc FLO each st across, ch 1, turn. [4 sl st, 18, (20, 22, 22) sc FLO]

Row 4- 35 (37, 39, 41): Repeat rows 2 and 3 respectively.

Row 36 (38, 40, 42): Repeat row 2. Fasten off, leaving about 8 inches for seaming.

Fold hat and seam the back together using the beginning tail with a tapestry needle and mattress stitch or whipstitch, whichever you prefer. Use end tail to cinch top of hat. Weave through the top of every other row, then pull tightly to cinch. You may then sew back and forth over the hole at the top to close it better, if necessary.

Again the premium version PDF in my pattern shops has tutorial photos like the one below, easy printing/digital viewing, and no ads! Check it out here on ravelry, or on Etsy.

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Chill Stopper Headband

I’m delighted with the turnout of this headband pattern! It’s cozy without being too thick, just right for keeping the chill off your ears in cold weather. I had 14 testers for this pattern, and a few of them made more than one. That’s when you know it’s a good pattern! I think you’ll love having this crochet pattern in your library as a staple for markets and gifting. There are six sizes, so you can make one for anyone! I like the way the crossed hdc stitches worked up in this headband, so I’m in the middle of designing a coordinating hat and cowl. Subscribe to my email list so you can get notified when the coordinating patterns come out in December.

Okay, I’m keeping this one short, because frankly, it’s late at night and I’m out of words! Let’s get to the pattern!

You can use the free version of the pattern below! It’s an easy, beginner pattern. If you need extra help with the stitches or forming the twist, you can get the low cost PDF on ravelry, Lovecrafts, or Etsy. It has photo tutorials to help with the tricky bits.

Supplies

  • 100 yards bulky (CYC 5) yarn, sample is Red Heart Yarns Soft Essentials in color Sugar Plum (Michael’s Loops and Threads Charisma or Hobbii Amigo Chunky would be good substitutes. The Amigo Chunky is on sale right now for Black Friday weekend!
  • crochet hook US size L (8 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
  • tapestry sewing needle
  • scissors and measuring tape

Stitches (US terms)

ch = chain

sc = single crochet

st/sts = stitch/stitches

FLO = front loop only

sk = skip

hdc = half double crochet

Notes

  • Finished dimensions: baby: 14 in, toddler: 16 in, child: 18 in, teen/adult sm: 20 in, adult med: 21 in, adult lg: 22 in around.
  • Stitch counts are marked at the end of each row in parentheses.
  • Pattern is worked flat and seamed at the end.
  • The right side is the side where the hdc stitches puff out more, pictured below.

Gauge

4 in by 4 in swatch

12 sts in 8 rows of the pattern repeat which is:

Row 1: sc FLO

Row 2: (sk st, hdc, hdc in skipped st) repeat

Written Instructions

Baby (Toddler, Child)

Row 1: Ch 13, sc in second st from hook and each st across, ch 1, turn. (12 sc)

Row 2: Sk first st, hdc next st, hdc in previously skipped st, *sk next st, hdc, hdc in skipped st, ch 1, turn. (12 hdc)

Row 3: Sc FLO each st across, ch 1, turn. (12 sc FLO)

Row 4- 27 (31, 35): Repeat rows 2 and 3 respectively.

Row 28 (32, 36): Repeat row 2. Fasten off, leaving about 8 inches for seaming.

Fold headband in half. Put the ends, right side together so that one end is halfway on top of the other end. Wrap the bottom end around the top and and weave the remaining tail through to create the twisted knot look.

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Teen/small (medium, large)

Row 1: Ch 15, sc in second st from hook and each st across, ch 1, turn. (14 sc)

Row 2: Sk first st, hdc next st, hdc in previously skipped st, *sk next st, hdc, hdc in skipped st, ch 1, turn. (14 hdc)

Row 3: Sc FLO each st across, ch 1, turn. (14 sc FLO)

Row 4- 39 (41, 43): Repeat rows 2 and 3 respectively.

Row 40 (42, 44): Repeat row 2. Fasten off, leaving about 8 inches for seaming.

Fold headband in half. Put the ends, right side together so that one end is halfway on top of the other end. Wrap the bottom end around the top and and weave the remaining tail through to create the twisted knot look. Don’t forget, if you struggle with this part, the PDF version has tutorial photos to help. It’s available on ravelry, Lovecrafts, and Etsy.

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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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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

by

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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