Three Rivers Crochet

New Member Shows Us Some of Her Work

2012-01-25T16:08:00.002-05:00

Constance attended 3RC for the first time and enjoyed the group enough to return. It's great fun when newcomers show off their work. Constance found 3RC as a listed chapter of CGOA on their website. It's also fun to find out how people find us.

Constance showed us samples of her work that she had with her because she had an interview with Joann's earlier. Most new people don't bring this many things to show!

She's showing us fingerless gloves and a cowl in a shell pattern. Then she showed us a lace patterned red scarf that we tried to get a good photo of. But it can sometimes be difficult to bring out the openwork sections. Really cute edgings on girl's socks done in thread. Finally, there's a baby afghan that has a pattern stitch that produces a really nice fabric.

So look for Constance at the Joanne's on McKnight where she is filling in for awhile.

She is also a lover of animals and has some of us making cat blankets for the shelter.

Three Items of Interest

2012-01-19T15:01:00.004-05:00

Chris had this yarn already and decided she needed to make something with it. It has really interesting quick color changes so the fabric looks woven. Looks warm and cheerful on Chris.

Remember we received big boxes from Carol's niece. These squares were in one of the boxes. Paulette added black yarn and pieced the squares into a totally mod throw.

Finally, in a past posting, we showed a hat made and designed by Theresa. The recipient, Chris's dad, was kind enough to pose wearing his holiday gift. Go Carps!

Wintertime Completions

2012-01-12T17:00:00.003-05:00

More projects were finished up now that the holiday demands are over. I'm showing off a lace shawl that I ordered from Annette Petavy. Several people design for her shop now and this design is from Euclat Soleil. I ordered the yarn and pattern for a very reasonable price. I encourage everyone to check out sites besides those in the U.S. You may be surprised.

I started working on the shawl in the summer and just finished up. The design was simple enough to watch tv and crochet at the same time. I did change the edging. The pattern called for a ruffle. But since I was drawn to the very geometricness of the shawl I continued with 3 rows of dc and a final one of sc. It's a wonderful color and design. I felt I did not overblock the design but the shawl is long. Tall members of the group suggested I had made it just for them.

Theresa finished up this Fair Isle hat from a kit that she got while taking a class at Stitches. She's reluctant to show off her work so Chris filled in for her. We all really liked the design. Of course, her work as usual was impeccable.

Theresa also has excellent taste in a choice of yarns and designs. Especially when she picks for me. She picked up this jacket's makings at the Fiesta booth. She was very proud of my master's in advanced stitches and techniques from CGOA. So this is her way of celebrating. Actually, she'll use any excuse to buy yarn. If she buys it for someone else, she's not adding to her stash. I was a very agreeable recipient and the design was from Fiesta and the yarn is La Boheme.

Unveiling of FO's for the New Year

2012-01-03T16:14:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year! I hope everything was merry and bright for the holidays.

Some people were busy though. Carol finished her last afghan for another grandson. I am impressed how Carol managed to design afghans per each boy's request that is each distinctive in their own way. But from the youngest to the oldest, each boy has an afghan that he likes now, and , I am positive, will like as he grows older.

Karen just finished up a Tunisian jacket in Moonlight Mohair. I made one several year ago, but I like her color choices better than mine. I am convinced this yarn only really looks good in Tunisian. I suspect it's because of the somewhat knitterly technique of Tunisian stitches and that Lion Brand didn't really check if this yarn looked good in crochet stitches. But I may just not have found the right pattern for the yarn.

Our last photo is of Byron, who is holding a plastic crate for comparison. The two big boxes are from Carol's niece. In a fit of organizing, she sent Carol & 3RC donated yarn and rectangles. At one time, her niece was part of a group making Warm Up America afghans. The group kind of dissolved but the yarn didn't. She hopes we can make use of everything she sent. So we thank her most kindly. We also thank Carol's hubby for standing around in the pic, so we could get an idea of how big the boxes were she sent.

The Year of the Hat

2011-12-28T15:01:00.004-05:00

I am dubbing 2011 the Year of the Hat because I just feel like I have written so many entries about hats. I wonder what the new year will have us making?

Karen is showing off her skull and bones hat made by Theresa. I'm not sure how many of those Theresa made. Theresa is holding up a carp hat she made in black and gold. In order to get this one done, she had to hunt for pictures of carp and figure out how to get the design on the hat. She must be getting rather good at figuring designs into stitch counts.

The other 2 pictures of Karen are her showing off a hat she was going to felt. We were a little surprised at the size of the hat until she explained. But it was also fun to see her trying it on in its unfelted condition.

The felted hat looks great on Gayle.So don't laugh too hard at the unfelted kind. Really looks expensive all finished. Hope Gayle can afford it!

Yarn Ball Part 2

2011-12-14T15:26:00.004-05:00

As usual I missed someone from the fashion show, Karen. Her sweater was wonderful and the photo just doesn't show the fine detail which is exquisite. She really has a perfect fit, too.
The rest of the pictures are people just hanging out or watching the fashion show. See if you can spot yourself.

Yarn Ball Fashion Show

2011-12-12T16:14:00.005-05:00

The Yarn Ball this year was on a Sunday right after the closing of the Holiday Gift Sales. I never had time to get all the items from the sales onto the blog. Once the sales started I was too busy to put up any more.

Every year we have a fashion show to show off items we've made and in this year's case, items we've purchased!

We start off with a lace beaded entrelac stole designed and made by Theresa.
Lyn is wearing a blue jacket she made.
Adina has gone all out with her outfit by having knitted the shell, the scarf, and the hat.
Becky is showing off a beaded duster she found at the gift sales that is perfect for floating onto the stage.
A scarf you can't remember what yarn you used is still perfect for the show.
There I am showing off the "Midsummer's Night's Dream" shawl from Interweave Crochet summer 2010.
A knitted white shawl that Amanda doesn't remember all the details for is still looking great.
Peggy is showing off a scarf that was supposed to be a shawl. Some of our efforts end by being real surprises.
Susan's jacket looks nice and cozy.
Bradley shows off a vest that was made using two variegated yarns together, both of which bunched up to make the job very difficult. But we all agree it was worth the effort.
Victoria is showing off a wave stole. Again this is one of the times when I think my camera did not show off the colors well.
Carol is wearing a ribbon yarn cape which was made by Rebecca and purchased at the Gift Sales. Sometimes we are are own best customers!
Ward is showing off his yamaka.
Lisa is holding up her afghan of knitted entrelac rectangles. The different yarns are from various projects. Now when she focuses on a rectangle, pleasant memories come back. Not everything in our fashion show has to be clothing.
What fashion show is complete without Sponge Bob Square Pants?
Evie was beside herself when she realized she needed something made of yarn to be in the fashion show. I made this jumper for her, but unfortunately it was way too big. But we all agree that one day she would grow tall enough for it to fit. And she got to be part of the fashion show.

Holiday Gift Sales: Totes & Purses

2011-11-29T15:29:00.005-05:00

From the smallest to the largest this grouping does it all: from tiny keepsake pouches to large size totes and everything in between.

We had a large infusion of wool yarn this year and had a wonderful time felting all types of items.

The small pouches for electronic items are being packaged in sets.

And nothing's better than a kiwi purse!

Holiday Gift Sales: Hats

2011-11-28T16:07:00.005-05:00

We have some great hats this year and we really tried to make different sizes. The blue set is heavily cabled and there are several broomstick hats.

Holiday Gift Sales?? Where? When?

2011-11-28T15:45:00.002-05:00

It occurred to me that I might not have given out all the information you might want to get to the Holiday Gift Sales.

We are at the Wilkins School Community Center (wsccpgh.org) in Regent Square.
The address for your GPS is:
7604 Charleston St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15218

The center is one block off Exit 77 (Swissvale/Edgewood) of 376 East (the exit right before/right after the Squirrel Hill tunnels). From the east turn right on South Braddock Ave. Coming from the west keep choosing the left lane: you will be heading up the hill on South Braddock Ave.

Since Charleston is one way, go up to the next corner (Sanders) and turn left; then turn left again (Milton) and arrive at Charleston. Parking is on street.

Dates are: Dec. 3- Dec 11

Sat & Sun 10-5
Weekdays 12-8

Holiday Gift Sales: Throws

2011-11-25T15:34:00.008-05:00

This year we have a big choice of afghans, they come in different sizes and different colors. I thought my camera was off when it came to the colors and you really need to see the true colors to tell if an afghan is for you.

The Steeler Helmet afghan is exceptionally long. Perfect for a single bed or that tall person who can't find an afghan to cover him/her. We'll be selling raffle tickets for this one. So don't forget to purchase a few when you stop by to shop.

Holiday Sales: Scarves

2011-11-24T09:57:00.010-05:00

You can see that we continue the theme of variety. There are many really warm scarves but there are also what I consider to be "decorative" scarves that are worn to finish off an outfit: tossed around the neck instead of jewelry. Most are in the $20 range except for the beautiful gray mohair lace that is $25. Sets are also a little more. There's one neck warmer in broomstick lace. The newest items are the ruffle scarves. Cha, cha, cha!

Holiday Sales: Shawls

2011-11-23T15:05:00.006-05:00

As you can see the range of styles and colors and types of shawls is rather extensive. All are priced at $25. A price well below what might be expected for hand crocheted or hand knitted items. In some cases you are probably below the cost of the yarn. Most of the colors from my camera are fairly accurate; however, I think in reality the colors are much richer. The one that is totally gray looking is actually black.

Lori's Current Project

2011-11-18T10:01:00.002-05:00

I forgot to ask Lori what her work was intended to be. I just enjoyed the stitch pattern. Many people avoid patterns that involve cutting the yarn at the end of each row and then starting on the front right again. They really hate weaving in all the ends. Shelli felt that way about all the ends in her granny baby blanket. For the picture, Lori carefully tucked the ends in.

American Girl Quilt

2011-11-17T14:54:00.002-05:00

Lori has come to a group meeting 2 or 3 times now. She comes in from west Virginia. She does really nice work and makes interesting items like this American Girl Quilt. She has nieces who collect the dolls. This is a quilt for a doll's bed. To get the reduced size, Lori made the quilt per the instructions but with size 10 thread. The colors are vibrant and the resulting quilt is spectacular to see. Apparently she has made more than one. Whew!

Getting Ready for Holiday Sales

2011-11-14T13:22:00.002-05:00

Everyone is making things for the holiday sales and usually I am asked, "What can I make? or What do we need? But Theresa is going about it in a different way.
Chris asked her to make a skull and crossbones cap for her because we had already seen one Theresa made. Theresa made the first but it didn't quite fit, so she made another. Unfortunately, other people seeing her work on these hats, want hats, too. But now they are requesting other designs, like fish bones.
If she works on these designs when does she make something for the Holiday Sales? By turning her special requests into donations for either Rwanda Knits or VA Pittsburgh Healthcare Systems. Nice going, Theresa!
Theresa is seen here with Chris showing off the skull and crossbones hat and a fishbone hat. By the way, the small skull and crossbones hat has made its way into the Holiday Sales.

Personal Projects

2011-11-01T12:48:00.002-05:00

How would you like to wear a hat that came from your own private alpaca? Karen's black hat is from her alpaca, Ebony. The green yarn is from a blend of fibers from alpacas at Highland Alpaca.
Karen decided she needed some nice warm hats for herself this winter and whipped up these two hats. She looks good in this style of hat and what could be warmer or softer than alpaca fiber?

Shelli worked all summer on this darling granny square blanket. The design and colors are so comforting looking. I'm sure her grand nephew will love the blanket. Who wouldn't love getting such a nice present for their baby? The edging is a special finishing touch.

A Mask for Halloween

2011-10-31T11:51:00.003-05:00

Theresa loves Halloween and has a houseful of spooky beings to prove it. I think it's the Angel of Death standing behind her. This year her birthday fell on the date of the Halloween party she throws for her interns. I thought it should have something special.
The summer issue of Interweave Crochet introduced Maire Treanor and Clones Irish Crochet Lace. There was a picture of a mask Maire made. So there was my inspiration!
The mask I made doesn't have any Clones knots. There were no details given with Maire's mask; so I was on my own. She apparently used much finer thread than I did with perhaps a smaller hook. My motifs came out larger than hers. The end result was I had no room for a net background. The packing cords were size 10 and the crocheting thread size 20. I varied between a .75 mm hook and a 1.00 hook.
You can see I used a shamrock, several scrolls, a bunch of grapes and grape leaves. There are 2 roses but they are on the sides. I stiffened the mask so it would hold its shape. I'm rather proud of how it turned out but I still have a way to go to perfect my Irish Crochet skills. Even though it's not there, I can make a Clones knot!

More on Felting

2011-10-26T18:56:00.003-05:00

One of the usual directions for felting is to put the item to be felted in a pillow case cover.
I personally have never followed that direction. Maybe I should.
When Carol tried her latest felting activity, she put the item in the bag. The first picture shows how much "lint/flutz/crap" came out of the yarn. The second picture shows what came out when the tote finally felted. It actually looks to me like the yarn disintegrated.

So now the questions are: Does this happen with every yarn? or just some yarns? What condition is my new washing machine in now? Anyone out there have any info for us?

Last But Not Least

2011-10-21T12:53:00.004-05:00

Maria finished her Special Olympic Scarf just in time for them all to be mailed out. Maria has difficulty with arthritis in her hands and when we were all making our scarves, Maria's doctor told her she needed a little break from knitting.

Maria is back to knitting now but is very careful not to overdo. She made a combo garter stitch and stockinette but felt the edges needed a more finished look. Maria, who barely crochets, put a sc edge down the sides which is difficult for anyone since you really have to go with feel and no real instructions.Then she added a short fringe.
Maria was worried how the scarf would turn out, but it's another great scarf to add to our other 21 scarves that were mailed today.

Spotted

2011-10-19T12:52:00.002-05:00

Spotted at the Seattle sit-in supporting the 99%. A knitter!

Felting for Holiday Sales

2011-10-18T17:19:00.003-05:00

Before Joe & Lyn went West, they stopped by the group. We looked at Carol's felted tote (a work in progress) and talked about making handles. Then Joe gave me a tote he had knitted and "allowed' me to felt it. When talking about felting, there's always the discussion about how much will it shrink and the standard answer is 1/3.
Since I was felting I thought I would measure. The bag was 21" across and the handles looked a fine length. With a front loader, I wasn't sure how things would go. I used a super hot setting and checked at a 1/2 hour (Dawn detergent & old jeans for agitation), but it didn't look like much was happening. I checked in another 1/2 hour and was it felted! I put it through a cold rinse & spin(high). I think 45 minutes would have done it. The bag was now 14" wide.
It was spun out enough that it wasn't dripping so I let it air dry. The handles were more felted than I liked so I hung the bag on the door with wine bottles inside to stretch them, and stretched the opening a little. (I've had the suggestion to use rocks instead and drink the wine. I say to each his own). It probably took a day and a half to dry ; I turned it inside out at one point, too.
Rebecca told me later that she thought some of the yarn might have been cotton. If it was evenly dispersed, it must have evenly felted anyway.
Joe followed instructions for the size, but he had to make up the color pattern for the yarn he was given. Everyone thought the result was a great tote (hanging on the door). You can find it at the Yarn Sales: Dec. 2- 10.

A Present for Amelia

2011-10-17T12:37:00.003-05:00

Paulette knitted this vest for Amelia's 2nd birthday. Amelia hasn't been in the blog lately. Babies seem to disappear from Panera's once they can say "No! Mommy"!
If you look closely you can see elephants. That's all the hint you're getting.

Soft Afghan

2011-10-13T12:28:00.003-05:00

Paulette crocheted this afghan from Berroco's Vintage. She loves this yarn and says it is soft and drapey.

A Present

2011-10-12T10:12:00.003-05:00

Paulette made this sweater as a birthday present for someone, and it wasn't me! This is Berroco Souffle, a bulky yarn made of acrylic, wool, and alpaca. Paulette used a Berroco pattern and size 15 needles. I love the colors and the yarn has an unexpected sheen for the fibers.

First Try with Beads

2011-10-11T13:25:00.003-05:00

This is a scarf made by Paulette. This was the first time she actually strung the beads and then knit. Looks like a lot of beads to me. I like the way the beads lie along the entrelac rectangle and emphasizes the shape of the design. These particular beads really show up on the dark yarn. Sometimes it is difficult to photograph beads or reflective fibers in work: they don't seem to show up. Well, Paulette took the picture or someone close to her and they may be better at lighting than I am.
Oh yeah, she made the runner, too.

Update from Seattle

2011-10-07T14:37:00.002-05:00

Randy came in from Seattle and Judy came from New York to celebrate Pat's birthday.

Of course, Randy had to stop by and say hello on Oct.1 to all of us at Panera's.

Pat is wearing the sweater Randy made for her. Looks a perfect fit. You can also see Pat working on her tote which she intends to felt. Apparently Randy and Judy refer to her project as "the boat". They'll be jealous when it's done.

They talked for awhile with me and Rebecca whom you can see working on something for Robyn's latest endeavor. She is very brave in my book: I never bring a Robyn project to group because I'd make so many mistakes, I would only have to do the work over .

Randy is making a sweater for her daughter Julia. The pattern is called Cobblestone and the Yarn is Shelter Yarn both by Jared Flood (website:Brooklyntweed.com). How does someone in Seattle get their hands on this yarn? They get on a ferry to Bainbridge Island and order the yarn in their chosen color at the Churchmouse Yarn & Tea. Randy's holding some well traveled yarn!

But here is a story for the generations. Pat taught Randy to knit (apparently several times). Randy taught the sweet young girl with her knitting project how to knit. She is a daughter of one of Randy's business partners. Randy says she picked it up like a natural. She's making something for her mom. Next, Randy is going to teach her how to crochet. And the beat goes on!

Carol Keeps Busy

2011-10-06T14:56:00.003-05:00

Carol does her best to make sure that Linus Project always has afghans. She also uses this chance to put together new stitches with colors that don't look like they should go together. I think she's getting rather good at it.

Everything she makes is developing that experienced look. She works hard at really expanding her skills. I'm sure she told me info that I've forgotten by now. Sorry, Carol. Maybe you can add something in the comments section, too.

Long Awaited Projects

2011-10-05T10:12:00.003-05:00

Just to show you how lax I was all summer, Paulette showed us these two scarves in June. Two really different what I think of as decorative scarves that you put on to finish off an outfit.
Then she went on vacation and made the sweater (she wasn't gone THAT long either). I know it's made from yarn she purchased at Highlands Alpaca. She was very nice about sending me info about the pattern but that email is long gone.
Paulette is like the energizer bunny; she just doesn't stop. But if she happens to check this blog and still has the missing info maybe she will add it in the comments section.

Grand Prize Winner of Creative Design Contest

2011-09-30T08:51:00.003-05:00

Last week at the CGOA conference I won the Grand Prize in the Creative Design Contest. I won $1000 and was on an adrenaline high for days.
I wore this top at last fall's Yarn Ball. When we all got a chance to go to the Chain Link in Greensboro, I decided to send it in with the idea of winning something in the thread category. Wow, did I get a surprise!
I was not planning to model the top or I would have brought something with me dark. The white top I wore does not highlight the designs in the motifs.
I've never counted the number of motifs in the top. They were all made individually and then put together. I love motifs and how was I ever going to get a chance to make all the ones I liked? So I had the idea you see here. Apparently I like symmetry and it's evident in the patterning. So I got a chance to make 2 of every motif I liked (almost).
I worked on this top over period of a year and a half. I started just making motifs and collecting them until I thought I had enough to start laying them out. My friends called it the "Mythical top" because, of course, I talked about it but no one ever saw it. I was going to call it "An Homage to Myra Wood" because exactly how it got all together is best explained in her book, Creative Crocheted Lace. But I finally went back to my original idea, and named the top "So Many Motifs, So Little Time".

More Accomplishments

2011-09-19T14:16:00.003-05:00

Karen is showing off her hat made from yarn at Highland Alpaca. It was so cute, we encouraged Karen to do a "cute" pose. This hat is on sale at Highland Alpaca (as well as the yarn).
Peggy made this pretty shawl. The color suits her well and the crocheting is just beautiful.

Personal Projects

2011-09-18T10:35:00.003-05:00

While it may seem that the only thing 3RC members have done this summer is make Special Olympic Scarves, that would be untrue.

As you can see here Amanda was working on her color work skills. She is donating this hat to our Holiday Sales. Right now everyone is starting to think about what to make for the sales, but I am holding back on pictures so all the items can be shown in November right before our sale dates (Dec 2-Dec 10).

This lovely young woman is Amanda's daughter, Cara, on her wedding day. She is wearing a stole made lovingly by Amanda for this occasion. You can see some of the intricacy of the stitches when you look closely. Amanda worked intensely to finish this shawl on time and arrive with it in California. I think it is just wonderful that she can wear this shawl on many other occasions and be reminded of a wonderful day and a wonderful mom at the same time. It's sad to think that not every bride has a wonderful memento made by their own mom. (or perhaps dad)

Last Few Special Olympic Scarves

2011-09-14T14:02:00.002-05:00

The last few Special Olympics scarves have been collected (with the possibility of one more). As you can see more of the group is trying for dimensional motifs. This is one of the examples of what happens when you belong to a group. You see what someone else has done and then you say. "I think I'll try that, too."
The blue and red striped scarves (kind of makes me think of Waldo) looks knitted but they're crocheted. The knitted scarves have large blocks of color and then a zig zaggy effect.
They've all been washed and tagged, ready to be sent.

Latest Scarves

2011-08-23T12:13:00.002-05:00

These 4 are the latest scarves to be turned in. Isn't it amazing the different looks that can be accomplished with shell stitches?

More Special Olympics Scarves

2011-08-17T15:17:00.003-05:00

Yes, the blog is still continuing. I'm just managing to have a very lazy summer. I suspect so is the rest of the group, since only a few FO's (finished objects) have surfaced. But we are running our Special Olympic Scarf Project up to Labor Day. These are the latest contributions. All crocheted and very different.
A follower has asked about the patterns for the previous scarves. 2 scarves came from the official website for the project, the colors reversed. Other than that, everyone went off on their own, which makes seeing each scarf a special treat. Other than the colors and size, the scarves are each unique. The website offered a hang tag which we are each filling in and attaching to our scarves. Please remember the official deadline to get in the scarves is February 1st. Ours will be sent in sooner than that.

Special Olympics Scarves 2012

2011-07-19T14:07:00.003-05:00

Yes, that's right! 2012!

3RC barely made the scarf deadline and then didn't make the cut off; so our scarves went outside PA last year. This year we are being really timely. The info for this winter is already up. We thought that since we get so busy in the fall with other charity projects we would get a head start this year. Besides when it's so warm, working on just a scarf isn't so uncomfortable. We are going to make our deadline Sept 1st. But PA's deadline is Feb 1st. So anyone who wants to be involved in the Special Olympics Scarf project has plenty of time.
Again the scarves are 6 x 6o". The colors are Red Heart Cherry and Soft Navy. All the info is on the website, just google Special Olympics Scarves 2012.

Here you see our first group of scarves. They've been washed and almost dried and are being blocked until dry. Three of the scarves are from this year's crocheted designs, but again you are free to do a pattern of your own choosing. They'll each be put in their own ziploc bag and sent out altogether at one time.

Randy Finishes Pink Sweater

2011-06-17T15:04:00.004-05:00

Randy has been working on this sweater for what seems like a long time. But truthfully, life can just get in the way of knitting and crocheting.

The last picture shows how far Randy was this past winter when she was staying with her mom, Pat, during her illness. What is really interesting is that she also sent her notes to herself that she wrote while working. I find that very interesting.

I feel so insecure when I am knitting that I practically write a direction for every row out in long hand. I only do that in crochet when I'm working a more difficult stitch pattern.

Randy really is progressing in her skills. The sweater looks great. Hey, it fits! The last test of success.

Yarn Bombing Sighted

2011-06-16T11:32:00.003-05:00

This yarn bombing was sighted on Liberty Avenue in Bloomfield on International Yarn Bombing Day. Where will these crofitti terrorists strike next?

Some of Paulette's Projects

2011-06-11T11:20:00.003-05:00

Paulette made this darling bassinette for a little friend of hers. This is a really good gift since young children always need to bring along toys when they are out and about. What's great is that the toy becomes its own carrier. And even a good storage place when the toy is put away.

Paulette was very pleased to finish these sox. Not sure if it was difficult or one of those projects that just never seems to get done. However, it does look like a pair of sox to be proud of.

Race for the Cure

2011-06-09T13:41:00.004-05:00

Chris made this hat and scarf in support of Breast Cancer Awareness. I know she likes making hats and probably designed her scarf with the extra yarn in the shape of the pink ribbon. Many members in the group have other groups and charities they support besides the ones 3RC is dedicated to.

Karen's Personal Projects

2011-06-07T12:57:00.003-05:00

Karen knitted up these precious sweaters for gifts. I think she should make them for me in an adult size, especially the Fair Isle.

WWK (& crochet) IP Day June 11

2011-05-20T14:01:00.002-05:00

World Wide Knit ( and Crochet) in Public Day is June 11. Just 3 weeks away. I was unable to put the flier on the blog. Anyone on my mailing list will receive a copy of the flier to print out. If you want me to send you one, contact me at dhalpern3@comcast.net.
Three Rivers Crochet is hosting the event again at the Schenley Plaza, 4100 Forbes Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15260 (for your GPS). That is in Oakland, between the Carnegie and Hillman libraries. We meet under the tent in any weather (almost) between 2-5. This is our third year hosting. Spread the word.

Charity Donations

2011-05-18T14:15:00.002-05:00

This past Saturday, May 14th, Karen, Theresa, and I participated in the Regent Square annual yard sale. We were allowed to set up in Wilkins School Community Center schoolyard. We were hoping to find people who had never encountered us before, liked what we had to offer and were glad to support our charities.
While our expectations were perhaps a little high, we were somewhat successful. We were able to send a check for $75 to the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System and one for $90 to Rwanda Knits. Joe continues to drop afghans at the Veterans Hospital and Cari keeps us posted on the successes of the Ignezi Union. So we continue to help a little here, a little there.

Personal Projects

2011-04-20T12:06:00.002-05:00

Carol has been in Arizona where she made a hat for her sister-in-law. Back home Carol decided to make a similar hat for herself but had to make a few adjustments. The original size was a bit too small and she just wanted to use her leftover yarn. So Carol used a kitchen scale to find out if she had enough yarn. Knowing the weight of the original hat, she weighed the leftover yarn to see how the weight compared. Luckily she had enough. By carefully watching increases, she was able to make a somewhat larger circumference and even had enough for the bow detail. Just what she wanted.

Krystle has been enjoying making three dimensional crochet items lately and picked up the book that has the instructions for the Winnie-the-Pooh characters. Were we surprised when she arrived with Winnie. None of us had ever paid any attention to the dimensions in the book. (The characters just sit next to each other in the photo with no other item to indicate size.) Well, Winnie is about the size of a 2 year old! And I am sure a 2 year old would love to have this humungous bear. He turned out darling, cute and BIG.

Personal Projects

2011-04-14T11:57:00.003-05:00

Some of our members are very good about sending pictures of finished projects. Others are not. I am always wondering how something turned out.

Paulette sent me this doily pic. Paulette is my heroine. She makes beautiful things out of thread. Plus I always like her choice of patterns. While this particular doily has very classical elements, they have been put together in the most modern way. This piece is timeless and beautiful. When Paulette gets tired of it, she's giving it to me.

While it.s hard to tell these two dresses are not the same size. I made them for sisters and the sizes are 4 & 6. They are made from Caron's Spa and the design was by Treva McCain for Inside Crochet. The layout showed the design as a tunic over a t-shirt and pants. The green is not actually so bright and the blue is a deep aqua.

Wendy Picks Up Breasts

2011-04-10T16:03:00.004-05:00

If you're a regular reader, you know that several members agreed to help Wendy Osher with her eco-art project for Something in the Water.

You can see the array of plarn breasts that Wendy took with her. We're planning to see the exhibit once it is in place at JCC in May and, of course, wondering what Wendy's project will look like when it's finished.

Krystle, Paulette, and Chris, several of the people who contributed, really seem to be enjoying having their picture taken with Wendy. Wendy enjoyed Karen adding a nipple ring to her effort.

Some Personal Projects

2011-03-22T14:52:00.002-05:00

Kitty has been knitting this hat. We spent time trying to get a good pic of the sparkle in this hat. What looks like perhaps white specks in the photo are really sparkles of light. It's one of those items you look at and go "ooooh!". So chic!

Maria went to Texas to visit her daughter and came back with her first ever felting project. You can see her knitting needles sticking out of this cute project bag. There is no stitch definition left and looks really smooth. It's amazing how a single bright color can look so expensive. I always like it, but it always surprises me. Great first felting, Maria.

Some Other Projects

2011-03-11T13:18:00.003-05:00

Well, while I was so busy, I kept taking pictures and finally my desktop was covered. I'm glad to say that these are the last of the pics. But even so, they are wonderful projects just like all the others.

Shelli finished this poncho for a little one. The pastel colors are sweet and the flower as cute as the dickens! Bet the little one loves it.

The other Amanda made this cover for her kindle. Truly, when you want a little project, think of all the electronic gizmos we have now. A beautiful cover like this one would certainly be a delightful gift. The same Amanda is going large with the last item, a great afghan. The ripples are always striking and timeless. I love variegated yarns for decor because they can go with so many things.

Jayne Hats

2011-03-10T16:55:00.002-05:00

Well, I had to do some searching to have enough info to tell you something about Jayne hats. First there was a TV series named Firefly, then came the movie Serenity, then there were comic books that filled the gap between the two. The best I can explain is that there is a man named Jayne who wore this hat. Everyone knew that a man who wore that hat must not be afraid of anything. That's what I know.

Then there are Kitty and Paulette who volunteered to make Jayne hats as "door prizes" for the blood drive at the Pittsburgh Comicon. The blood drive is on the 16th of April. The comicon is Apr 15-17 at the Monroeville Expomart. So give blood to win one of 4 Jayne hats!

Kitty is modeling one of the hats. I don't know if she isn't afraid of anything, but she sure is a good sport.

Amanda's Projects

2011-03-09T12:54:00.003-05:00

Amanda is another prolific knitter.

She frequently wears a shawl during our group get togethers at Panera's because when the door opens a blast of air just whips right in. So she comes prepared. The colors in her shawl are just great.

She says it only takes her five hours to make these gloves. She made a pair for a friend as a gift and posted a pic on Facebook. Another friend saw them and said."Have to have them". So Amanda made this pair for her and is getting glass jewelry in return. I think they both made out like bandits.

Finally, Amanda made this hat for the Yarn Ball. I had the hat sitting on the table to give to Lyn who organizes items for the Yarn Ball for us. But a family was sitting nearby and began asking us questions about what we were doing , what all the group is about, etc. Well, the mom purchased the hat then and there (because it matched her coat) and they were happy to support our charities. Now Lyn is organizing a donation.

Carol's Projects

2011-03-08T10:53:00.003-05:00

Carol has a special fondness for the Linus project and is always working on small blankets for infants. She usually uses yarn from her stash or donated yarns. She has made several for a church group who occasionally needs blankets for members of their fellowship who are having new babies. Apparently they sometimes need a little help and purchase the blankets from us. Carol donates that money for Yarn Ball charities.

Carol keeps the tasks interesting by trying out new stitches, and using different edgings and trims. The little touches add that "sweet" factor.

In addition, Carol has a friend who quilts. She made the quilt for Linus Project. Her quilt will be turned in with the blankets and other items for Linus Project. Nothing like a beautiful project to put a smile on everyone's face.

Wendy Osher

2011-03-07T10:08:00.003-05:00

Wendy Osher, an installation artist, is in the planning stages for an eco-art project concerning the safety of the water we drink. I'm not sure that calling her an installation artist is accurate since I think most artists don't fit into neat categories. The point of her project is to raise awareness of how plastics get into our water and is found in breast milk. I won't describe her entire project since her blog does a better job: http://www.h2oforall.blogspot.com But as a collaborative work, Wendy was looking for crocheters to make breast forms from plastic bag yarn (plarn). Some of you out there are probably aware of plarn as a way of reusing plastic bags.

The first two pictures show making the bags I collected from grocery shopping and was making into loops for yarn. They also show my first attempts at making a breast form. Daunting since we are going for 12-36".

Wendy visited with the group at the 3/5 meeting. She showed us some rather impressive "boobs" she'd been sent already. She really helped us see what she was looking for. We were on the right track but apparently they needed to be sturdier, so we switched to smaller hooks. She will pop into the 3/26th meeting to collect the breast shapes.

How About Some Firsts?

2011-03-04T18:11:00.002-05:00

While Pat was in the hospital, her daughter Randy was here from Seattle. She ended up trying to help someone with a crochet problem and said: "Hey, Diane." Well, the problem was with the instructions from a free flyer. This isn't the first time I've run across poorly written instructions. They weren't wrong, (which I've run across, too), just saying things in more than one way and then throwing in a chart to save space.

So I worked with Randy on changing the chart (filet) into an international symbols chart, so she could picture the actual stitches. She did great! It helped her discover where she made a mistake from the chart. The end result? A darling star square for a baby blanket made from filet squares and solid ones. Now Randy can do charts, filet crochet, and international symbols. WOW!

Kitty made this great jacket for her sister. It was her first attempt at a garment. On top of that she changed the pattern and I think used a different yarn. But getting some directions from Theresa after running into each other at JoAnne's, she apparently breezed through the project. I think the jacket is very Chanel looking.

April has developed a very regular tension with her stitches. She made the pot holder for practice and then we worked on how to edge her square with sc. Of course, moving along, she learned dc.

Three Interesting Afghans

2011-03-03T18:06:00.002-05:00

Paulette seems to like to try lots of different crafts. She also seems to do an excellent job at whatever she turns her hand.

How many of you have seen the ads for a small, like the size of your palm, hand loom called a "Weave-It"? I watched Paulette finish up the last few squares for her afghan weaving with a needle. She says it is a small, portable craft while making the squares. She picked the colors for this afghan to take to the ocean. They all remind her of things from the seashore. The trim is crocheted from the same yarn, making a great finishing touch.

Theresa makes many baby afghans for young couples she knows. But she also likes to try new things. This is her first attempt to make a star shape. Turned out darling. She added a sweet simple edging that also takes her project up a notch.

Carol is holding up an afghan she borrowed from her dentist's office. Imagine! If you get cold at the dentist, they cover you up with a nice afghan.

But this afghan caught her eye because if you look carefully the colors are not the same on each side. How'd they do that? When making the first colored round only the front loop was used. Then the afghan was reversed and the other color was placed right behind the first color using the remaining loop. Turning back to the first side, the next row was crocheted by catching the loops of both sides. Clever!

Anyone for Hats?

2011-03-02T22:05:00.005-05:00

Well, I've been collecting photos for quite awhile when 3RC gets together. Since I've been very busy; there hasn't been much time for the blog. So I've come up with some groupings to handle the "pile up".

Krystle has 2 hats in this grouping. She recently learned to knit and has been doing great. The blue cap is for her. The jeep hat is for her boyfriend. He was wearing it last week and looked really cool.

Chris is showing off her"summer" hat. Soft colors and a small brim. It's perfect on her.

How about this cap for a nice Fair Isle design?

Then there's Phyllis's yellow hat with a blue design. How cool is adding blue jewels?

How about Kitty's hat? Another great pattern!

Last Day for Caps for Good

2011-03-01T18:12:00.003-05:00

The little white hat being held by April is her first crocheted project. All the hat used was chains and single crochets. The hat is adorable. I like how this particular picture shows how very small these hats are.

Peggy shows off a sweet spiral cap she made. Rebecca made this table top full of hats. Again she used the leftover pieces of yarn. Some only long enough to go around the cap twice. But the result is fun and pleasing.

The final total was 88 caps for good and donations over $200. Check the sidebar for the final count.

New Faces

2011-02-21T14:12:00.005-05:00

Lately, we've had a lot of "newbies". That really means people who have come to join in a meeting for the very first time. They could be rather advanced knitters or crocheters. Or they could be people who have known about us for awhile and finally found the time to actually drop by. They may stop by to ask a question about a problem. Or as happened on one day : "I want to learn to knit" and "I want to learn to crochet". Someone was recently shown how to knit cables. Maybe someone just shows up with a coworker or friend. We were glad to see each and every one and hoped they had a great time while with us. What we like even more is when we get to see them again. You won't be able to pick them out in the pictures, they just blend in. I know I didn't get everyone; don't be disappointed if you don't see yourself.

More Preemie Hats

2011-02-20T14:42:00.003-05:00

I hope no one thought that the last entry about Caps for Good would be all the hats this group could put together. How about a few more?

Rebecca came up with a dozen and a half caps. She is the expert when it comes to using up those stretches of yarn that are too short to really do a project but also too long to feel good about tossing out.

Phyllis made 3 knitted caps from the patterns that are put out by Caps for Good.

I'm actually not sure who made the last 2 sets of caps. They ended up in front of me to get their pictures taken. I think they came from "the group in the corner". Then they hopped into a bag with Karen so they could be sent on their way.

We really don't make any one sit in the corner. 3RC has so many "regulars" now that we kind of

end up grouping ourselves to chat and share. Next week a whole new group of people will be in the corner.

Emphasis Moves On

2011-02-07T13:40:00.004-05:00

The group has collected all the leftover Special Olympics yarn. I've added some white yarn to add something new to the colors. We had 2 scarves that did not make it to the scarf box, so we are using them as strips for an afghan to be eventually donated to the VA. We are using the same technique as the Feel Good Project in which we put strips together to make the afghan. This time the length will be about 56". Again the number of people involved will be up to the individuals.

We've talked about Caps for Good before, and this where some emphasis will occur since this drive for preemie hats and $10 for medical kits will end with the month of February. This is essentially the same charity as Caps for the Capitol and Caps for Change and is through Save the Children. Each cap gets a short note attached as a message for the mom; this is an important aspect of the program, as the personal touch is very comforting to the moms.

A few people have already made some hats. MaryAnn sent a few hats, the 4 colorful crocheted hats. Denise has sent us 5 knitted hats. Carol crocheted the 5 sweet pastel hats. The great thing about this project is that if you have some yarn leftover but it really isn't enough to make something...... oh wait, it's probably enough to make a preemie hat. (or 2??)

Special Olympic Scarves

2011-02-04T14:30:00.007-05:00

Well, I took a chance waiting until the 31st to mail our scarves. Apparently on the same date the Special Olympics Scarf Project met their goal of 1,000. Everyone was mailing on the 29th, I guess. However, our scarves are being forwarded to a state still struggling to meet their goal but not yet closed. So our scarves are being used by special athletes which is what we all wanted. The Trib mentioned we were doing this project in their article last Monday on knitting and crocheting groups.

Of course, it's always fun to see what people came up when they had to use the two colors and could pretty much do what they wanted. The first 3 scarves use the motif that came with the directions. I suppose some of this was due to curiosity about another "Granny" square pattern. This is a good one to keep in your arsenal. Lacy and not a bit old fashioned.

The next two look different front and back. One suggested pattern was crocheting lengthwise in blo only which make an accordion effect, but the dominate color is different on each side. The other is Tunisian and while the color patterns are the same on each side the stitches look very different.

Next are two knitted scarves. One with each side a solid color and the other random stripes. The next 2 scarves start with the same idea: alternating color rows. But how different they look with a straight or shelled border.

Next, one is knit and one crocheted. Large needles holding both colors together makes a lacy scarf. The "granny" hexagons don't seem surprising at first until you realize that they make the unusual edge naturally that so many modern scarf patterns are showing.

The next trio are crocheted. Two are using the granny stitch idea but working down a long axis with a cute curve at the end to establish the corners. Rows aren't boring when you throw in a spike stitch effect.

Next, how about a wave pattern? or a potato chip scarf? Just plain fun.

Then a truly warm knitted scarf that came to us all the way from Missouri because they do not have a winter Special Olympics there. But now our scarves, along with this one, are on their way, too. Makes me think about throwing pebbles in the pond and making ripples. How far will the ripples go?

A few more stripes and granny looks, followed by a Tunisian scarf. The knitted scarf takes advantage of different stitches to have wide and narrow areas.

Some horizontal and vertical stripes. The more I saw the blo scarf the more I liked it.

Then garter stitch with two different pompoms. Followed by even more pompoms on a puffed shells scarf. Again, what fun!

Finally, bagged and waiting on my dining room table to be boxed. 27 scarves: a true feat.

Some did one scarf; some knocked themselves out making so many. Doing a project with the members of 3RC is always great.

Personal Projects

2011-02-02T13:49:00.002-05:00

Randy Joseph has been staying in Pittsburgh while her mom, Pat, is convalescing. She knitted up this cowl which easily also covers her head. There's a knit pattern that is difficult to see because the yarn is so dark.

Karen knitted up this cute hat. It has so many wonderful details that's it's hard to choose what I might like best about it. I pick the increasing details on the crown. On top of that, gray and pink is one of my all time favorite color combos, even as a child.

Carol has just finished another grandson's request. He wanted a Steeler afghan for his bed. I like that Carol's afghans are always what the boys want now but I can tell they will still still like the designs into adulthood. She wanted an official patch for the afghan and had a hard time finding one. She ended up cutting this patch from a pair of gloves.

Why are these projects all together in one entry? Each one was a personal design. Seems to me they could all get their designs published, but maybe they would like to keep it all to themselves. I believe creative people find each other. In this case, at 3RC.

Two New Projects

2011-01-28T19:50:00.002-05:00

Carol has finished another blanket. I really like the old fashioned look the color choices make. On the other hand, I think Carol may have Rumplestilskin locked in her basement and just spinning out blankets! instead of gold. Not sure yet where this item will be donated.

Paulette just finished this sweater for her daughter. It is knit and made with Berroco"s Borealis, color #5016 Grundvik, a self striping yarn. Lucky daughter.

Spotted!

2011-01-26T12:42:00.004-05:00

I'm always taking pictures at the meetings. Frequently, they just naturally group themselves into focused articles. But sometimes, they do not. The following pictures are items that have been spotted over a series of meetings.

Peggy brought in an array of items she had made; some of which are destined for charity projects. She's showing off the tam she made. She says it really was quite easy to make.

We come prepared for it to be cold at Panera's especially if we are in the back area. Paulette was wearing a very attractive shawl that showed off a great lace edging. Phyllis was wearing wrist warmers that peeked out prettily from her sweater. What beautiful ways to keep warm.

Carol likes to make blankets for Linus Project. Just look at the sweet embellishment she put on this blanket to make it special. It's frequently the small details that move a project into a whole other category.

Karen made this hat as a sample. Since she created it in a large size, she needed Rebecca as a model because of all her hair.

Lots of examples to show that being in a group doesn't stop anyone from doing their own thing.

More Hats!

2011-01-25T13:13:00.003-05:00

Can you believe there were more hats to see on the 15th?

I made the blue with gray stripe and the grey/pink/white. I used Paton's Classic Wool. The blue hat is Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS). I started with a rectangle but began decreasing after the grey stripe, so I only had 5 stitches to gather at the top & then seam. The other hat is the classic pattern I give out when we make hats for Guatemala. Hdc and ch across, working the hdc's into the chs in the next row and keep doing that for each row; then gather the top. The ch spaces make it easy to weave the thread and it's not so bulky.

I don't know as much about the other hats. But I can spot a "scoodie" which I believe is a hood with a scarf (or is it the other way around?) I'm sure a kid will wear it with the sides hanging. I remember when I wore things for style. Now it better keep me warm and I'll wear it anyway I like!

Just look at the variations in this entry and the last one. Aren't we lucky to have a hobby that allows for so much creativity?

A Bartholomew Cubbins meetings

2011-01-10T14:07:00.005-05:00

Do children still read Batholomew Cubbins? The kid who got in trouble because when told to remove his hat, another one kept appearing? When I got to Saturday's meeting I mentioned that I had received 2 pictures of hats for the blog but hadn't had time to post them. A little later someone shows me a hat; I take a picture. A little later, another hat. A little later, guess?? I thoroughly suspect now that they were playing with me. The final pictures of hats arrived today. Check these beauties out. Will I get in trouble with the king, too?

Any way..... the last pic is of Chris in a hat making a hat. What else?

Becky knitted 2 hats: one for herself and one for Jonathon.

Phyllis knitted 2 hats: the white is too large but couldn't be made smaller because of the lace section. The markers are where buttons will go. But the bucket hat fits nicely.

Paulette made the group of 3 for Guatemala but the hat with the ribbon is for herself. I suspect the picture doesn't do the colors justice.

Amanda made the knitted cat hat for her daughter in the chullo style that is so "in".

Shelli made her white hat "long ago".

Chris's tweed hat suits her to a T; she also made a baby hat to go to Guatemala.

Charity Projects

2011-01-05T12:20:00.004-05:00

Well, vacation is over. What will you do now?

The 2 hats in the photo have been donated to our own designated "good will" project. For the last couple of years we have been making hats in January for the dental team's Carla to take with her to Guatemala. These are for children who need dental operations that they would not normally get. I think of them as smile hats: happily smile for the camera wearing your new hat and your new smile. We ask that the hats be colorful and a 12- 14" circumference. If you want to donate, send the hats this month to

Diane Halpern, 191 W. Hutchinson Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15218

Caps for Good www.goodgoes.org

This is a continuation of the original Caps for the Capitol Campaign that sends preemie size hats with medical kits to new or almost new mothers in impoverished circumstances. We've been donating for the last couple of years. It's a good idea to include a $10 check with the hat, otherwise the hat waits for funds to show up before being sent. We will probably send our hats as a group.

Special Olympics Scarves www.scarvesforspecialolympics.org

We participated in the scarves campaign for the 2009 winter Special Olympics. The idea has caught on and now they would like to have scarves for each participant in the winter Special Olympics 2011. We will also send our scarves as a group on this project. PA wants the scarves sent by Jan 29 to arrive by Feb 5.

SuperBowl Scarves www.indianapolissperbowl.com/super-scarves

This feels like a steal from the special olympics. But they want scarves for their volunteers to match their uniforms: so any knitters/crocheters who can't be there can participate. Not my cup of tea, but if you're a football fan, it may appeal to you.

Snowflake Sweaters

2011-01-01T15:31:00.003-05:00

A winter issue of Crochet Today from last year had snowflake sweaters for kids sizes 2, 4, 6, 8. I decided I would make them for my grand nieces and nephews, all matching for Christmas. However, we are now talking sizes 9. 12 & 18 mos; as well as size 4 and size 10.

Again you get an idea and you are getting into designing. I paid careful attention to the measurements given out by the craft yarn council and started figuring out my stitch counts. Since I would have to leave a large head opening in the baby sweaters, I went with the drop shoulder design instead of the inset sleeve of the larger sizes. I also used Caron's Simply Soft in gray heather instead of Red Heart's Baby Soft. After lots of stitch planning, I got started. I did the snowflake embroidery with Lion Brand Microspun because I thought it looked more like embroidery floss than the Simply Soft.

The three baby sweaters had a split neck and snowflake buttons at the shoulders for ease of getting into. I added a little snowflake on the left sleeve.

The two size 4's followed the pattern but again I added a snowflake on the left sleeve and also one on the back right shoulder.

Finally on the size 10, I moved the snowflake on the sleeve up higher more like where a badge would be. I wanted to avoid being too cute with the snowflakes since it was for a boy.

Oh yes, rubber duckies were packed with the sweaters. Kids don't want clothes for Christmas!

(but not the 10 year old).

Fair Isle Dress

2010-12-31T13:38:00.002-05:00

Theresa has remade several sections of this dress. I always thought that if you followed the instructions you had it made in the shade. But it is not unusual that even having gauge an item just doesn't fit; or certain sections while beautifully photographed just don't appeal in reality. So you make changes. Now you are into designing. Perhaps just for yourself, but designing nonetheless. Theresa had a very difficult time getting that little band of pink near the neckline to line up properly.

Now she is a very experienced knitter and has made herself more than one dress. So if anyone reading this blog has had the same experience, you are not alone. Remaking and redoing is all part of the craft. Relax and enjoy the process.

More Broomstick

2010-12-29T12:48:00.003-05:00

Chris also took the broomstick crochet class with me. She selected a colorful yarn that did not have as much yardage and was thicker. Just the same, she also made a beautiful scarf, too. I really like that the stitches are so clear on this scarf, so that the uniqueness of the broomstick lace is very evident.

Shelli's Baby Sweater

2010-12-28T13:44:00.002-05:00

Shelli had been working on this sweater for awhile. It's a gift, of course. I'm pretty sure this is an Elizabeth Zimmerman project. You keep knitting from different directions and just seam across the top. It's all garter stitch. This is one of those examples that shows simplicity can be quite beautiful. I really liked the yarn for this project.

Donating the Feel Good Project Items

2010-12-17T13:51:00.003-05:00

On December 16th, Three Rivers Crochet members donated 3 afghans and 1 lap robe to VA Pittsburgh Healthcare Systems. These items were made from the yarn that Land's End donated to Warm Up America, which contacted CGOA (Crochet Guild of America). Penny Sitler contacted chapters who were interested in making finished afghans by mid-December. Karen Cinnamon, director of recreation and volunteers, graciously accepted the donation on behalf of the veterans. The three large afghans will go to the homeless services division and the lap robe will stay in the main hospital.

By far the most intricate patterns were in the lap robe. The sections are both knit and crocheted.

The next afghan is also knitted and crocheted. From left to right you can see me next to Karen Cinnamon and then Lyn, Denise, and Carol. In front is Evie, who came with her grandmother Lyn because she wanted to donate, too. Lyn brought additional lap robes and afghans that she made and others had donated over a period of time. I believe the total was 16.

The next 2 afghans were totally crocheted.

Probably 10 -13 people were involved in making strips and sewing them together. It was a great group effort that covered just a month's time.

Finally we all said goodby and packed up the afghans to send on their way.

Paulette Strikes Again

2010-12-10T13:04:00.003-05:00

At the last meeting, Paulette wore a crocheted shawl. Very pretty. Her first attempt at beading. It's not new but now I wonder what other nice items are lingering in her closets???

She also surprised Amelia with a new hat. Doggies and bones. This hat is knitted and Paulette did not find the pattern difficult. I think it is both funny and cute!

How Are Things Working Out?

2010-12-09T13:25:00.001-05:00

When you have a group of people working on one project there are always kinks that need to be worked out.

The first afghan had three strips that were too short. On Saturday we will extend those strips and sew up the sides. A pretty easy fix.

The second afghan was in good shape lengthwise but came out short on the width. We know we have one more strip coming to sew on, which we plan to do also on Saturday. But there is still room for concern due to...

The original finished afghan was washed gently and dried on very low but still shrunk. Almost uniformly which was very good. But its size is now 64" by 40". So I am worried about the width on the afghan that isn't so wide yet. Only 34" right now. Will it make it? Stay tuned.

Assembling Strips Dec. 4, 2010 1-5

2010-12-07T19:35:00.005-05:00

Previous blogspots showed strips that were being made, but what did they look like when they were all together? I think we were lucky to get rather compatible colors. Although we all learned quickly to keep the "grape" separate from the "blueberry".

A large crew arrived to attack the assembly and make some adjustments to the lengths, so we could get even edges. A rather intense group who would probably all avow they don't really like "sewing".

By the end of the afternoon, we had our first afghan done and two more almost there. The first completed afghan is in the last picture.

Diane's Projects

2010-12-02T14:21:00.002-05:00

I've been busy this last month making sweaters for a grandniece and grandnephew

who both have fall birthdays. Not that I ever get the projects done on time. But the family just accepts now that something might show up at any time.

The sweaters are both oversized size 4. They are both made of Homespun and the pattern was from a small seasonal book from several years ago. I knitted the edgings and really liked the final look. The pattern called for 3/4" buttons but I think 1" buttons would have worked better with this bulky yarn. Still learning after all these years. I found that the camera didn't give an accurate rendering of the colors, besides the colors in this yarn really come alive out in daylight.

I gave my grandniece an itty bitty when her baby brother was born. So I made another outfit for the doll to slip into the sweater's pocket. The patterns for the itty bitty that I got from Annie's Attic aren't very good. I got an extra doll so I could try on outfits before I sent them. The shirt top was too big and the overalls were too small to fit over the top. The hat turned out gigantic and was still too big with several row reductions. The booties were just right. The final outfit was pretty good.

Carole and Squares

2010-12-01T12:17:00.002-05:00

Crochet has become Carol's passion since she retired. She wants to know everything and try everything.

Since Carol purchased a great find at a flea market, she has been into crochet in the square. The afghan that inspired her had a great pattern of blue and white squares and the squares were perfectly executed. Obviously, someone let that afghan go without knowing what they had.

Carol found the directions for the square that she wanted. Honestly, there are so many versions of the square it is amazing. But she came to the meeting one day and said, "Why are these squares so wonky on these baby afghans?" She was being meticulous in her stitch count.

So we sat down together while I watched her make a square and we found the problem. Because the corner increase covered the top of her 1st stitch, she was actually starting her count in the second stitch. It was a small, simple thing that hinged on where to look for the two loops at the top of the 1st stitch.

Carol went home and dismantled one of the baby ghans and redid it. Can you tell which one is which? I think this is a good example of how belonging to a crochet/knit group can increase your skills.

Carol also took the broomstick crochet class. She changed the pattern stitch a little to make the scarf more to her liking. Broomstick crochet is everywhere!

Karen's Projects

2010-11-30T14:48:00.003-05:00

Karen has been very busy lately. She's been working for Highland Alpaca and taking care of her own business Chocolate River Alpacas.

But she found the time to finally work on projects. The basket weave sweater took a long time to finish. It is made from an alpaca blend that Karen requested and had made at a minimill. It's really soft. All hers.

She made the hat as a design sample for Highland. It's felted alpaca and she embroidered it. Karen is really good at felting. I know the sweater is knit but I think the hat was crocheted.

Paulette's Latest Projects

2010-11-29T14:44:00.004-05:00

Paulette has been really busy lately.

The wraparound shrug is from Crochet!'s September issue. I especially like how the stitch pattern shows in the back. It fits nicely, too.

This fall I worked on a pattern from Lion Brand and everyone liked the design. Karen made one for Highland Alpaca in their yarn. Then Paulette made it in a different yarn. This knitted pattern can be found on Lion Brand's website.

Then Paulette took my broomstick crochet class. She made the scarf from the ball of alpaca yarn she got at the lesson along with the pattern. But she made it shorter than my design, so she knitted up some fingerless gloves. Whew!

Paulette is still rather new to 3RC, and is what I call a double threat yarn enthusiast: she both knits and crochets well. Oh well, this group will let anyone join.

Feel Good Strips

2010-11-28T17:56:00.004-05:00

The Feel Good strips are still coming in. There are two crocheted strips on the chair Then Phyllis knitted three strips with a definite pattern in mind. She laid them out in the direction they should go on a bench in Panera's. I know of 3 more knitted strips coming in on Dec. 4th; so I am hoping for a knitted afghan and 2 crocheted ones. The V stitch has been so popular, one afghan can just be that. If there isn't enough for a fourth afghan, maybe we put together a lap robe. I remain hopeful though.

Kitty brought in a teddy bear. I think he must be a Thanksgiving bear because he looks like he ate the entire feast! Cute stuff!

Feel Good Strips

2010-11-18T15:02:00.003-05:00

So far we have 5 completed strips turned in for the Feel Good project. Measuring them across the width comes to 44 ". That would seem enough width to make an afghan. But we'll wait to see what other sizes people have made to put all the strips together. The patterns people have chosen seem to go together well.

The Beethoven Burger

2010-11-17T13:29:00.004-05:00

This past fall, Becky was hired to teach a lesson on composing to students in the Allegheny Clarion Valley School District. How do you do that? and hold their interest? FAST FOOD!

Becky, an accomplished pianist, got her mom and dad, Lyn and Joe, to knit and crochet a burger. Not your sink your teeth into size, but wrap your arms around size. All the parts are there: down to some sesame seeds on top.

They put it together in 2 weeks. Can you imagine the conversation at their house during that time? "Joe, what yarn do you think looks like hamburger?" "Lyn, is this a good color for cheese?" "How do you make lettuce?"

Finally Becky had a great teaching device for an innovative lesson plan. She explained that composing is a lot like building the perfect burger. Using Beethoven's "Fur Elise", she had students take and hold pieces of the burger associated with parts of the composition. The students then had to listen carefully and bring their part of the burger (composition) up and start stacking. Finally the Beethoven Burger was built and hopefully an interest in classical music sparked.

Even if we weren't at the lesson, everyone at 3RC recognizes the creativity that constructed the Beethoven Burger.

Yarn Ball Finale: The Fashion Show

2010-11-05T12:30:00.005-05:00

The Yarn Balls have always ended with a fashion show. The time when all of our talented members and contacts get to show off their knitting and crochet accomplishments, whether they did the item all by themselves, or someone who dearly loves them made it for them. Large or small, simple or complex, Three Rivers Crochet celebrates their achievements. There are small stories that go with most every picture for which we don't have the space here. If we missed your entry in the show, we apologize because the camera couldn't quite keep pace.

Social Time: Find Yourself

2010-11-03T07:45:00.006-05:00

Fred Astaire for an Evening

2010-11-02T15:22:00.001-05:00

Jonathon cutting a rug with his girls: Becky, Sierra, and Evie.

Door Prize Winners

2010-10-30T10:31:00.003-05:00

Raffle Baskets

2010-10-29T18:43:00.003-05:00

The Yarn Ball had three big raffle baskets. They can be seen here with the winners.

Ball 2010

2010-10-28T14:50:00.007-05:00

These are our attempts at creating pleasing displays for the Yarn Ball.

News from Rwanda Knits

2010-10-27T13:04:00.003-05:00

Karen notified Cari Clement of Rwanda Knits to tell her to look for the checks and the approximate total. Cari was thrilled to get the news. She constantly works long hours writing to get grants to support the cooperatives.

The first picture is a cowl produced by the knitters for Anthropologie. They made 750.

Indego Africa financed the yarn purchase.

Our donation along with grant monies will probably be used to purchase yarn to support the production of domestic school and team sweaters by the Ingenzi Knit Union (IKU).

The remainder of the pictures shows the women involved in some pretty intense knitting.

It's hard to believe but very rewarding to know that our efforts could be a real help.

Greeting Desk and Historical Display

2010-10-26T16:48:00.004-05:00

Karen greeted everyone, explained things, and answered questions. Such as how do I win a door prize? Where do raffle tickets go? Can we eat that food? How do I make out this check?

Periodically we challenge ourselves and do a group project that more or less falls into the arts as opposed to crafts. The "Pittsburghscape" was invented & executed in 2005 and went to the CGOA convention in California that year. Having inspired the book "A Coat of Many Scrumbles", the cape also traveled to the CGOA convention in 2006, where it was photographed with the new cape. Also at the same con was "In the Garden", a wire bra that was entered into a "bra"vo contest. Wooly Dreams can only be termed an adventure into needlefelting; the wool is alpaca fur. Slated for the future? A Slice of Pittsburgh, another wallhanging.

Yarn Ball 2010 October 9

2010-10-25T20:03:00.004-05:00

Meet the committee that organized the ball. Theresa, Becky, Lyn, Rebecca, Joe, Diane, and Karen.

This is the atmosphere section. A fantastic, yummy spread put on by Becky.

A fantastic view from the balcony. Great music. This is where I say: A good time was had by all!"

Up On the Farm

2010-10-11T14:22:00.002-05:00

On October 2, a few of us went to Highland Alpaca and helped celebrate Farm Day. We taught quite a few people how to needle felt and sent them home with samples of felted alpaca fur. Many of the younger set had fun lacing beads for necklaces and bracelets. There are no pictures of alpaca because you need to go to Highland Alpaca and see them for yourself.

Yarn Arrives

2010-10-04T17:37:00.003-05:00

This year Lands' End started a Feel Good project with Warm Up America. They have arranged for free yarn to make afghans.

Through Penny Sitler at CGOA, 3RC arranged to have 5 cones sent, thinking as a group we could complete 5 afghans by mid December. We originally asked for darker colors since our intended recipients are the VA. But we were told no choice on colors.

The yarn arrived today. Think fruit! Cranberry, cherry, orange, grape, and blueberry. If you look carefully, you can see the cones are not equal in size. They suggest handing out 1.5 oz per 7 x 9 rectangle. We've already discussed going about 5 afghans in a different way. Let's see how the colors influence us???

Paulette Finished Tablecloth

2010-10-03T12:45:00.004-05:00

Previously we showed this tablecloth as a WIP. Here it is. Finished beautifully and not a mistake in sight! (Sorry readers, inside joke.)

Voila! A scarf

2010-10-01T14:49:00.003-05:00

The complementary scarf for the beret. It's not the same exact pattern. It's the basic broomstick stitch.

It's 5 1/2 " wide and 54" long. I did 25 rows and fastened off. Then started again from the beginning chain for 25 more rows. The last rows have a picot worked in.

It really is the same yarn: I feel it is a real taupe, looking grey in some light and brown in others.

100% Alpaca Beret

2010-09-28T18:45:00.003-05:00

On November 6th, I'll be teaching a class at Highlands Alpaca. This Saturday, I'll be at the alpaca farm to celebrate Farm Day and help out with the activities as part of Karen's "posse". The hat and scarf patterns will be free with the class. But the finished projects will be with me for preview.

The free patterns are for a broomstick crochet beret and scarf. This is the result so far for the beret. I'm still working on the scarf. The yarn is 100% alpaca, a light worsted weight yarn that feels really nice. It's name is Isle of Lewis.

Personal Projects

2010-09-24T19:23:00.003-05:00

In spite of all the energy being funneled into the Yarn ball, members still find time for personal projects.

Becky just finished this blanket. It's rather large and more likely to be appropriate for a young child than a baby. Becky is going to donate her blanket.

Chris, however, is not donating her unicorn hat. It's part of a costume. Chris is really good at imaginative crochet.

Rebecca's Other Donations

2010-09-22T13:45:00.003-05:00

Here's two "green" thoughts. How about putting that present in a little crocheted bag? Or you can just keep your diddies in a little diddy bag. No plastic or paper with these little holders.

What's that green item hanging from Rebecca's wrist? A pea pod purse. Zipped up nice and tight with little pocket organizers inside.

No, these aren't doilies. These are rugs. As you can tell from items around the rugs how large they are. They've been made from 100% wool yarn that was donated to the group on large cones. They're great designs. A note to the purchaser: the rugs can be felted in the washing machine which results in a less lacy look and smaller size.

Rebecca and Donations

2010-09-21T19:19:00.002-05:00

Rebecca is our "go to" person for putting together disparate items of yarn. She says Lyn gives her a lot of inspiration.

However, she/they do it, the results are always pleasing and sometimes very astounding. Such as the pink shawl that Shelli is modeling. It went perfect with the top she was wearing that day. If you have a yellow top, get this shawl! you're sure to get comments.

There's bound to be a scarf at the ball, that goes with something you own already.

Yarn Ball Items

2010-09-20T09:57:00.005-05:00

Many of the items you will see at the Yarn Ball are from actual members of the 3RC. I made this baby sacque because this year we had so few baby things.

Marlene knitted this beautiful cape, modeled by Maria.

Theresa knitted the "Steeler" hat and scarf, modeled by Rebecca. She also crocheted the next fabulous item. It is a Tunisian (esc stitch) bedspread. The photos look funny because the afghan is so long. I couldn't get the entire 'ghan into the photo. People had to hold it sideways. It was made to cover a single bed as a bedspread. This is a big feature item and we would like a donation of $150. You can see the helmet and border design in the photos.

Next, Karen made this Santa hat (there are 2 more), modeled by Amelia.

Carol and Crochet

2010-09-19T16:57:00.003-05:00

Carol has really jumped into crochet since she joined 3RC. She made and donated the 2 tams, she's holding, plus the crocheted necklace. Then she designed and executed the 2nd afghan for one of her grandsons. Since she is celebrating her 50th on the same day as the Yarn Ball, we agreed she could purchase the yellow sweater in advance. Looks great on her, doesn't it?