Hey, Good Lookin’, Whatcha Got Cookin’?

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It’s such a time of joy and there’s so much to be delighted about! I find joy in the warmth of the long days, the expectation and freedom of summer exploration, summer recipes that delight the senses, colors that scintillate in the sun! And Jems Luxe Fibers served it all up with their What’s Cooking yarn subscription this spring!

Yummy colors and delicious southern recipes were delivered the last 3 months: Carrot Soufflé in April, Pig Pie in May, and Blueberry Rumble in June. These colors brought me such delight, I named my newest pattern “Chara,” Greek for “joy.” You can crochet your own delicious Chara Shawl using the colors from Jems Luxe Fibers What’s Cooking collection or choose your own color palette that brings you joy!

Chara Shawl $6





Joy is the warmth of spring, delighting in the flavors of fresh recipes, and the dazzling colors inspired by What’s Cooking Spring 2021 by Jems Luxe Fibers. Fill your senses with joy as you immerse yourself in creating this shawl!

Difficulty
Advanced Beginner

Finished Measurements
Approx. 60 inches by 32 inches after blocking

Materials
What’s Cooking from Jems Luxe Fibers
1 skein DK Luxe (274 yds/100 g) in each color:
Carrot Soufflé C1
Pig Pie C2
Blueberry Rumble C3
or
3 skeins DK weight yarn in desired colors

US Size H (5mm) hook

Tapestry needle

Gauge
5 sc = 1 inch
Gauge not critical

Terms and Conditions

Fight Like A Girl: New Pattern Coming Soon!

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It’s so hard to keep a secret! I’ve been working on a pattern collaboration with Forbidden Fiber Company called Fight Like a Girl, and I can’t wait to share it! So in my excitement, here is a sneak peek. If you want to get in on it, you can order the kit here.

Forbidden Fiber has delicious hand dyed colors and the Fight Like a Girl kit is no exception. This treasure trove is inspired by how awesome we think women are (ourselves included). The kit includes six 20g hand dyed miniskeins, a pattern (crochet or knit), and surprise themed goodies.

Be sure to order before limited supplies run out!

Tamagotchi ON: A Perfect Diversion

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I’m working on a math heavy pattern right now, and my brain just needed a diversion. So I took a break last night a designed this Tamagotchi ON cozy. Tamagotchis are a cool little diversion themselves. It’s a revival of the 90’s electronic pet. You start with a digital egg and it hatches and grows through different stages of life. But only if you feed it, clean it, and play with it…Every. Single. Day. Or it dies.

It’s fun to play when I’m supposed to be cleaning house or feeding my real kid. Why go through all that when you can do it digitally in a game? The device is a little egg shaped game, and the originals had a keychain attached so you could carry it with you where ever you go. The newest version lacks the keychain, so I needed a cozy that would protect it, make it a little shock resistant, and have a convenience loop to carry it. So here is a quick diversion for you to make for your or your kid’s Tamagotchi.

Tamagotchi ON Cozy

Materials

G hook

Worsted yarn

Rnd 1: In magic loop, ch 6. Do not join; work in spiral.

Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st.
12 sc

Rnd 3: [2 sc in next st, sc in next st] around.
18 sc

Rnd 4: [2 sc in next st, sc in next 2 sts] around.
24 sc

Rnd 5: [2 sc in next st, sc in next 3 sts] around.
30 sc

Rnd 6: [2 sc in next st, sc in next 4 sts] around.
36 sc

Rnd 7: Sc in each st around.

Rnd 8: Sc in next 3 sts, ch 15, sk 3 sts, sc in next 30 sts.

Rnd 9: Sc in next 3 sts, ch 3, sk ch-15 lp, sc in next 30 sts.

Rnd 10: Sc in each st and ch around.

Rnd 11: [Sc2tog, sc in next 4 sts] around.
30 sc

Rnds 12 & 13: Rpt last rnd 2 more times.
20 sc

Finish off with invisible finish. Weave in ends.

Oh no! My Tama just died! 😭

Agape Love Shawl Crochet Version and 9 Tips for working with Mohair

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Happy Valentine’s Day! Treat your Valentine or yourself to this soft, luxurious scarf designed by Judy Busby at Jems Luxe Fibers and translated to crochet by me, Katie Clark.

Agape Love is an unconditional love that transcends and persists regardless of the circumstance.  Agape is the Greek term for Love – the highest expression of love – a pure and  selfless thing.

This shawl is a fun and quick crochet using minis and mohair.  Every row begins with decreases that shapes this colorful shawl.  Have fun with your colors and let it reflect the love you’ve experienced, how it has shaped and reshaped you.  God’s love for you and me is passionate, pure and beyond anything we’ve ever experienced, accepting us as we are.  He reminds us of our worth and beauty as His daughters.  He loves us with unconditional Agape Love.  God is Love!

Judy Busby, Jems Luxe Fibers

If you’ve never used mohair, you’ll find it takes some patience to work with. So before we get into the pattern, let me give you a few tips for working with mohair.

Tip #1

Use a larger hook or needle to retain loftiness. The wonderful thing about mohair is the silky halo of fiber that surrounds the core. Using a hook or needle that is too small will compact the fibers, negating the effect.

Tip #2

Work loosely. For the same reason as above, use a gentle hand. Or if you have a tendency to stitch tightly, go up another size or two.

Tip #3

Hold with another yarn to add softness, halo & warmth. The fibers aren’t just beautiful. They are very useful for insulating. Used alone, mohair is surprisingly warm. So adding it to another yarn will make your finished piece that much warmer.

Tip #4

Ask your LYS to wind your yarn. Especially if you’ve never used mohair before, because it is so clingy. You don’t want to be frustrated with your yarn before you even begin your project. If you must wind it yourself, try loosening fibers before winding by gently spreading the strands apart to keep them from matting together as you wind.

Tip #5

Do not work cake or ball from inside. I’m a work-the-ball-from-the-inside kind of girl. I do it even when it’s not recommended. Except for mohair. Ever. The fibers pull on each other and you end up with a big mess. Ask me how I know.

Tip #6

Use excellent lighting. This is always important, but especially when using mohair. The halo can make the core strand difficult to see. Good lighting can help and if you really can’t make out your stitches, try holding it up to the light.

Tip #7

Don’t worry so much about mistakes. The halo hides a lot. But if necessary, hold your work up to light to check.

Tip #8

Be patient when taking out stitches. It’s inevitable that you will have to take some out eventually. But try not to get frustrated. Don’t pull so hard that you rip the core, but don’t be afraid to tear fuzz to separate the strands.

Tip #8

Most of all, be patient! It’s is different than any other fiber. But the soft luxurious mohair is worth it!

Now on to the Agape Love Shawl Crochet Version!

Agape Love Shawl

Difficulty
Beginner

Finished Measurements
Approx. 90 inches by 6 inches

Materials
Agape Love Minis and Nimbus Set

or

1 skein Jems Luxe Fibers Nimbus in Ruby Red MC
1 mini skein Jems Luxe Fibers Luxe Sock in each of these colors
Aphrodite CC1
Rubellite CC2
Agape CC3
Ruby Red CC4
Apple of Discord CC5

US Size N (9mm) hook

Tapestry needle

Gauge
3 sc = 1 inch
Gauge not critical

Begin Shawl
Holding MC and CC1 together, ch 270 loosely.

Row 1: Working in back loop of ch, sk first ch, sc3tog, sc across to last 3 chs, sc3tog. Turn.

Row 2: Ch 1, sc3tog, sc across to last 3 sts, sc3tog. Turn.

Rows 3 & 4: Rpt row 2.

*Break CC1. Pick up CC2 and hold it together with MC.
Rpt row 2 five times (or as many times as desired if you have extra yarn).

Rpt from * for each mini skein. Finish off both strands. Weave in ends. Block as desired.

Terms and Conditions

Patriotism during Hard Times

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During this hard time, I want to give some encouragement! Look to your neighbors, friends, and even your social media friends. Together, we are Americans. Whether you look to the future with optimism or hesitancy, remember God is sovereign and America is sustained by His blessing! ❤

Colossians 1:16

“For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.”

I wanted to give you this free pattern to support and encourage my fellow Americans. Just so you know, I felt it important to release is as soon as possible, so it hasn’t been tested. Please email me if you have comments or suggestions for this pattern. If you would like to support me to allow me to continue to write patterns, the Patriotic Beanie is also available for purchase as a PDF download.

Difficulty
Advanced Beginner

Finished Measurements
Head Circumference in inches
Baby (Toddler, Child): 14 (16, 18)
Adult S (L): 20 (22)

Materials
1 ball each Knit Picks Stroll (50g/231 yds)
in these colors:
Cobblestone Heather (Gray)
Sapphire Heather (Blue)
Strawberry (Red)
White (White)

10 or more White Star buttons (not recommended for baby or toddler hat)

US Size F (4mm)hook

Tapestry needle

Gauge
22 dc = 4 inches
14 rows = 4 inches

Notes

• For sizing, measure your head and choose the size that is the next size smaller than your measurement.

• Before beginning, I reccommend highlighting the instructions for the size you will be making.

• Ch 2 at beginning of rnd does not count as a stitch throughout.

Crown Shaping

Note: As you work the crown shaping, change to Blue as noted for each size.

Rnd 1: Using Gray and working in magic lp, ch 1 (does not count as a st), 10 sc. Join w sl st to first sc.
-10 sc

Rnd 2: Ch 2, 2 dc in each st around. Join.
-20 dc

Rnd 3: Ch 2, [dc in next st, 2 dc in next st] around. Join.
-30 dc

Rnd 4: Ch 2, [dc in next 2 sts, 2 dc in next st] around. Join.
-40 dc

Rnd 5: Ch 2, [dc in next 3 sts, 2 dc in next st] around. Join.
-50 dc

Rnd 6: Ch 2, [dc in next 4 sts, 2 dc in next st] around. Join.
-60 dc

Rnd 7: Ch 2, [dc in next 5 sts, 2 dc in next st] around. Join.
-70 dc

For Baby (Toddler) 14 (16), finish off Gray. Join Blue and work next 1(2) rnds in pattern using Blue. Then continue to next section.
-80 (90) dc

Rnd 8: Ch 2, [dc in next 6 sts, 2 dc in

next st] around. Join.
-80 dc

For Child (18), finish off Gray. Join Blue and work next 2 rnds in pattern using Blue. Then continue to next section.
-100 dc

Rnd 9: Ch 2, [dc in next 7 sts, 2 dc in next st] around. Join.
-90 dc

Rnd 10: Ch 2, [dc in next 8 sts, 2 dc in next st] around. Join.
-100 dc

For Adult S (20), finish off Gray. Join Blue and work next rnd in pattern using Blue. Then continue to next section.
-110 dc

Rnd 11: Ch 2, [dc in next 9 sts, 2 dc in next st] around. Join.
-110 dc

For Adult L (22), finish off Gray. Join Blue and work next rnd in pattern using blue. Then continue to next section.
-120 dc

Rnd 12: Ch 2, [dc in next 10 sts, 2 dc in next st] around. Join.
-120 dc

Continue Blue Field

Continuing working in Blue, work even until you have a total of 3 (4, 4) 5 (6) rnds of Blue complete. Finish off Blue.

Red and White Stripes

Note: To change colors, complete last stitch in old color to the last yo. Instead of working yo in old color, draw up the last lp in new color. Do not finish off old color. Instead, run the strand up loosely to the next row.

Rnd 1: Using Red, ch 2, fpdc in first st, dc in next 4 sts, [fpdc in next st, dc in next 4 sts] around, changing to White at the end of last st.

Rnd 2: Using White, rpt rnd 1, changing to Red at the end of last st.

Rpt rnds 1 & 2 until you have 4 (6, 8) 8 (10) rnds of stripes. Rpt rnd 1 once more. Finish off Red and White.

Ribbing

Rnd 1: Using Gray, ch 2, dc in each st around. Join.

Rnd 2: Ch 2, fpdc in first st, bpdc in next st, [fpdc, bpdc] around. Join.

Rpt rnd 2: 2 (2, 2) 3 (3) more times. Join.

Finish off.

Sew buttons in Blue Field as desired. Do not use buttons for Baby or Toddler hat. Instead, use White to embroider lazy daisy stars to Blue Field as illustrated below.

Weave in ends.

Abbreviations

beg = beginning
ch(s) = chain(s)
dc = double crochet
fpdc = front post double crochet
lp(s) = loop(s)
rnd = round
rpt = repeat
sc = single crochet
sl st = slip stitch
st(s) = stitch(es)

New Patterns! Kirithra Cowl and Scarf

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Here is the Kirithra Cowl and Scarf! One pattern, two styles! “Kirithra” means “honeycomb” in Greek and it’s the same honeycomb pattern as the Kirithra Shawlette. I am so proud of the Kirithra Shawlette, but there are so many things I love about the cowl version.





First, it’s a perfect use of a pack of mini skeins from JemsLuxe Fibers! Do you have a mini skein set waiting for a project or 5 random minis you can put together? You can use that, or even left over sock yarn from your last few pairs. You just need 20 grams or 90 yards each in 5 different colors. You can even use a couple of full size handdyed skeins if you want.

Another thing is how fast it is. The cowl only takes a few hours to make, so it’s a great last minute Christmas present. The scarf, of course, takes a little longer, but it’s only December 1st. You still have time!

It’s easy too! If you were hesitant about the Intermediate skill level of the Kirithra Shawlette, this is a fun Beginner alternative.

If you like a challenge, or math (ha!), the cowl and scarf patterns are adjustable. The stitch count is included so you can alter the width and length.

I hope you enjoy this cowl as much as I have had designing and wearing it!





Introducing the Kirithra Shawlette

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The Kirithra Shawlette is available now! Choose a kit curated by Jems Luxe Fibers to crochet a stunning version of your own. The pattern is included free with the purchase of a kit. Or you can purchase the pattern here.



Once you have your kit or pattern, you can join the Kirithra Shawlette Crochet Along! Starting November 9th, gather with other crocheters in a private Facebook group to share progress, hints and tips, and some much needed community. Look for your invitation to join after you complete your purchase!

Kirithra Shawlette Kits by Jems Luxe Fibers

Find these kits and more at Jems Luxe Fibers

Southern Sweet Tea (MC)
Moldivite & Serendibite (CC)

Order now from Jems Luxe Fibers

Taaffeite (MC)
Blackberry Cobbler & Griffin (CC)

Order now from Jems Luxe Fibers

Rubellite (MC)
Oceanus & Tourmaline (CC)

Order now from Jems Luxe Fibers

Turquoise (MC)
Underworld & The Big Three (CC)

Order now from Jems Luxe Fibers

Turquoise (MC)
Aphrodite & Pink Sapphire (CC)

Order now from Jems Luxe Fibers

Turquoise (MC)
Morganite & Rubellite (CC)

Order now from Jems Luxe Fibers

Graphite (MC)
Amethyst & Benitoite (CC)

Order now from Jems Luxe Fibers

Dioptase (MC)
Euclase & Peridot (CC)

Order now from Jems Luxe Fibers

Cerberus (MC)
Euclase & Mud Pie (CC)

Order now from Jems Luxe Fibers

Copper (MC)
Dioptase & Tourmaline (CC)

Order now from Jems Luxe Fibers

Lazulite (MC)
Turquoise & Jade (CC)

Order now from Jems Luxe Fibers

Amethyst (MC)
Rubellite & Pink Sapphire (CC)

Order now from Jems Luxe Fibers

Jet (MC)
Graphite & Gypsum (CC)

Order now from Jems Luxe Fibers

Order these kits and more at Jems Luxe Fibers!

New Shawlette Pattern coming soon!

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I’m so excited to introduce my newest design! It’s a shawl! It’s a scarf! It’s a SHAWLETTE! I love how this turned out. It’s long and narrow. You can wear it loose around your shoulders for cool fall nights or bundle it around your neck when it gets colder.

I used 3 skeins of Luxe Sock yarn by @jemsluxefibers. The design features a spike stitch pattern with crocheted linen stitch stripes and a ribbed edging all around. The smart unisex design is perfect for anyone!

The pattern will be released November 9th with a special event for a few lucky stitchers! Details are coming later this week!

Christmas in September

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2020 has been something else, hasn’t it?! I don’t know about you, but I’m looking forward to the end of the year! There has to be a light at the end of this tunnel. And it should have something to do with Christmas. And yarn. How about a crochet along?

Forbidden Fiber Company is introducing this year’s advent calendar, and it’s gonna be so fun! It’s a White Elephant Advent Calendar! Have you played a White Elephant or Dirty Santa gift exchange? It’s like that. You choose a squishy present out of the box and see what you get. If you like it, you keep it to use in your pattern today. If you don’t, put it back and choose another! The catch is, you eventually get to keep them all!

The White Elephant Advent Calendar comes with everything you need to complete a surprise pattern by the end of the month: 18 coordinating hand-dyed mini-skeins, A MKAL (knit) pattern designed by Afifa Knits OR MCAL (crochet) pattern designed by me, Katie Clark, and a few extra goodies throughout the month.

If you choose the crochet option, find me on Facebook along the way for help, tips, and a good time! Are you ready to get started? Find the MCAL pattern here.

Summer Blog Hop

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It’s Fri-yay! AND…it’s my day for the Summer Blog Hop! Here is today’s free pattern, the Espartina Scarf, a light beachy wrap that features a crochet “drop stitch” motif. It’s available free today, June 26th, 2020, only. But if you missed the promotion, don’t worry! It’s available for purchase all the time on my Patterns page.

Espartina Scarf

I want to thank Jess from SunSandStitch.com for organizing the blog hop. She has one more surprise for you tomorrow, so be sure to check out her page one more time tomorrow! And thanks to the other awesome designers, Creativ Anaviv, Fobas Designs, Potter Productions & Desamour Designs. It’s been so fun!