summer crochet

Here in Michigan, winter is coming to a close and spring is starting to show through. I don't despair for my crocheting, though, because there are plenty of warm weather crochet projects out there!

Using a lighter yarn works well for warmer weather wearables. Switching to a cotton or sock yarn to do a project is a simple way to transfer a winter wearable into a spring/summer item (but always check your gauge! Lighter yarns don't work up the same way heavier yarns do). Try making a lacy sun hat instead of a bulky, warm hat, or make a beach cover up instead of a sweater.

Another warm weather project is embellishments. Creating appliques for summer or winter wearables is always fun. Adding a flower to a hat makes a personal statement and changes the look at the same time. Crocheting a lacy edging around the collar of a favorite tee or blouse adds a feminine touch. Creating your own jewelry with crochet is stylish and whimsical. All these projects can be put into a purse or bag and brought with you on vacation as well.

You may want to try different projects altogether. Sitting under a pile of yarn can often become too warm and uncomfortable if the air conditioning isn't strong enough, or if you like to sit outside and crochet, like me. So why not try napkin rings, placemats, or dishcloths to name a few? They work up quickly and don't cover your lap with heavy, hot fabric. Another idea is stuffed animals or dolls. I've become quite enraptured by these, myself. I've made stuffed sheep, cartoon characters, people, and other toys.

So don't put down those crochet hooks for summer! Try something new and small, or practice your stitches on a favorite take-along project. But don't stop crocheting!

Awareness ribbon bags free pattern

2 colors WW yarn (background color (A) and ribbon color (B))

Size G hook

cloth for lining, sewing needle, and matching thread (Optional)

1. with color A, 6 sc in magic circle (do not join)

2. 2 sc in each sc (12 sc) (make sure to crochet over your tail so you won't have to hide it later!)

3. (sc, 2 sc) x 6 (18 sc)

4. (sc in 2, 2 sc) x 6 (24 sc)

5. (sc in 3, 2 sc ) x 6 (30 sc)

6. (sc in 4, 2 sc) x 6 (36 sc)

7. (sc in 5, 2 sc) x 6 (42 sc)
8. (sc i 6, 2 sc) x 6 (48 sc)

9. (begin sides) in back loop only, hdc in next sc, dc in next 47.

10. dc in ea (48 dc)

11 rep row 10. (48 dc)

12. Using color B to start the ribbon, dc 1, change to A, dc in next 5, change to B, dc 1, change to A, dc in next 41.

13. 2B, 3A, 2B, 41A

14. 1A, 2B, 1A, 2B, 42A

15. 1A, 3B, 43A, 1B

16. 1B, 1A, 2B, 41A, 2B, 1A

17. 2A, 2B, 44A

18: 1A, 2B, 1A,  2B, 42A

19. 1A, 3B, 44A

20. 1A, 3B, 44A

21-23. dc in next 48

24. dc in next 45, hdc, sc, sl st

25 ch 3, dc in next st, ch 2, sk 2, (dc in next 2, ch 1, sk 2 dc) 11 times, join with a sl st to top of beginning chain 3.

26. ch 3, dc in each dc and ch, join, fasten off.

Strap:

Join A on one side of bag with ribbon facing  forward. (ch 3, dc in next 2) turn.  Repeat till strap is desired length. Join to opposite side of bag.

Drawstring:

With color B, ch 100. sc in 2nd ch from hook and each chain to end. Fasten off.  Weave through holes made by ch 2 spaces on bag.

*I have to turn my bag inside out to have the best side showing. You should see the ridge made on your back loop only row on the outside.

Now, cut out your fabric if you choose to line it.  trace around the bottom of the bag with pencil on the wrong side of the fabric and cut it out.  Measure the distance around the bag and cut out a rectangle that length. Sew the rectangle to the circle with the right sides together. Fold down the top edge of the lining and iron it down. Now insert the lining into the bag and pin, in, pin it in, right under the drawstring holes. Sew lining into bag. Do not go all the way through the crochet stitches, just snag the needle around the yarn on the inside of the bag and back through the lining.