Princess Bride themed graph

My favorite movie of all time is The Princess Bride.  I remember watching it with my mom when I was a kid.  At first I thought "oh boy, another stupid romance."  I mean, what kid wants that?  But I watched.  And I became intrigued.  And by the end of the movie I was fake sword fighting all over the living room furniture, rhyming my replies to every conversation, and quoting Mandy Patinkin's famous line "Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya.  You killed my father. Prepare to die," in a bad Spanish accent to anyone that would listen.

I've watched it several times since then.  I shared my love for the movie with my son (who didn't want to watch a stupid romance movie, either), I've read the book, and I've read Cary Elwes' book about working on the movie.  For our anniversary this year, my husband bought me a digital copy on Vudu.  I've watched it twice more.  Maybe three times.  Maybe more.  Anyway, I just finished it again and thought I'd memorialize this wonderful romance/comedy/drama/adventure with a throw.  First step is to design the graph which I've done and now share with you. 

I created the graph to be a 5 x 6 throw when using a J hook and 1 sc per graph square.  To cut down on color changes I'd start on the long side and work my way across.  If you'd like a copy yourself, please email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com and I'll send you the pdf. Use any colors you like.  If you make one, I'd love to see a picture!  Email it to me and you can possibly be shown here or on my Facebook page.  If you post it to social media yourself, please tag #KendrasCrochetedCreations and credit me with the design.  If you have any thoughts you'd like to share please comment below.  you're welcome to share this post using the links below.

Marilyn Monroe graph

My adult niece and I were chatting one day and I mentioned my respect for Marilyn Monroe as an actress.  Overcoming a rough childhood, changing from factory girl to pinup/actress/singer, bombshell...Wow!  You go, Norma Jeane!
"I LOVE Marilyn Monroe!" she exclaimed.
Since Christmas was coming up, what else could I do?  I made up this graph and crocheted her a blanket.  I used a flesh colored yarn for the skin tone.  Unfortunately, I can't find any of the photos I took of the finished product.  If I find any later I'll add them to this post!

I used 2 dc per graph square with an H hook to get a large throw (about 4 x 6).  If you'd like to make one of your own please email kendrascrochet@gmail.com with "Marilynblue" in the subject line.  Any questions should be put n the body of the email.  If you'd like to see your finished photo featured here or on my Facebook page,  please email it to me when you're done.  You're also welcome to post it to my Facebook page yourself. If you post to other social media, please tag #KendrasCrochetedCreations and credit me for the design.

Let me know if you like it in the comments section below!

Batman graph

The Batman franchise has been around for decades, starting in the DC comics and ending up on the big screen, with series, animation, and video games liberally sprinkled throughout.  The logo has drastically changed throughout the years starting out as a man in a cape and morphing into a bat...getting slimmer/clunkier back and forth as time goes on.  This version is my personal favorite.

To crochet this full size afghan, I would use black for he background even though the graph shows white (it's just so hard on the eyes to stare at a black graph!), using 2 dc per graph square with an H hook.  If you want to make a twin size, cut off the top and bottom 15 rows. For a throw, add 15 to top and bottom, add 40 rows to right and left sides, and sc with a J hook.

If  you'd like me to make one for you, I can do that too.  Please email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com for payment details.

To get this graph yourself, email me with "Batman" in the subject line.  Any questions should be in the body of your email.

If you make one, I'd love to see a finished photo!  Email it to me, or tag #KendrasCrochetedCreations on social media.

Are you secretly a designer and don't even know it?

Designing an original crocheted piece is sometimes a great deal of hard work.  If you don't know where to start or think you have no idea how to even try, think about these things: have you ever modified a piece to get it closer to what you wanted?  Even something as simple as changing the color of the yarn is a step in the right direction (and I'm 99.999% sure we've all done that!). The first step to designing (in my opinion) is modifying existing patterns to suit your needs or tastes.  This post will be about adjusting patterns.

1. Besides simply changing the color of the yarn to get what you want, you can change the size of the finished product. The easiest way to do this is to use a different hook size. Follow the pattern as it is written  but use a smaller or larger hook.

2. Just as easily as changing the hook size is changing the yarn type.  Most of the products I make use worsted weight yarn.  I like how it feels on my hook and I'm used to it.  If I use a thinner yarn or a thicker yarn, that automatically changes the finished size.

3. Another way to change the size of a finished product is to change the number of repeats.  Most patterns are repetitive and often the designer tells you the pattern is "multiples of *number of stitches* plus *number of stitches*" for example: multiple of 7 plus 2. So if your pattern calls for  65 stitches across you can change it to a smaller size by multiplying 7 x say, 5 = 35 plus 2 for 37.  This would make the finished product about half the length.  Of course, you don't need to change it that drastically!

4. Stitch length is another variable in patterns that can be easily changed.  Try using a taller stitch sometimes, a double crochet instead of a single crochet perhaps. Or do the opposite. Be a bit more discerning with this change though, because it can change the entire look of a finished product.  You'll need to make sure this is a change that you can appreciate. Then again, making changes is a huge part of the designing process!  If you don't like it, rip it out and try again. 

5. Replacing an element with a different method.  If you're making a wearable piece that calls for an element in a method you don't care for (a sweater with seamed sleeves instead of seamless or a slipper sock with a gusseted heel instead of a heel flap) you can work the pattern as it is and replace one method for another when it gets to that part of the pattern.

Once you are comfortable making these changes, you can start modifying existing patterns more and more with a combination of these suggestions. If you make enough changes, you've actually created a new, unique piece and can call yourself a designer after all!  Do this enough times and you can start from scratch.

Marauder's Map graph

A lot of adults as well as children love Harry Potter.  I'm a big fan myself and have enjoyed sharing the books and movies both with my son when he came along.

The Marauder's Map was created by Messieurs Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs who we later found out was Harry's father and his friends. It shows the location of every living person in the Hogwarts castle and which direction they are moving (if they are moving) and helped Harry out of a few scrapes from the time he got his hands on it, thanks to the Weasley twins.

I plan on using a J hook and 1 sc per graph square worked in straight rows for this to make a 4 x 5 ft throw. Maybe use a tan color for the background to simulate old parchment. If you would like a copy to make your own (graph only, no written instructions) email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com with "solemnlyswear" in the subject line and I'll send you the pdf.  If you have any questions, they can be in the body of the email.  As always, you may sell your finished product, but not the pattern, nor can you claim the pattern as your own.  If you post a photo to social media please tag #KendrasCrochetedCreations in the photo. 

Cincinnati Reds free graph

The Cincinnati Reds are an American professional baseball team based in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Reds compete in Major League Baseball as a member club of the National League Central division.  In 1876, Cincinnati became one of the charter members of the new National League, but the club ran afoul of league organizer and long-time president William Hulbert for selling beer during games (the horror!) and renting out their ballpark on Sundays.  Cincinnati president W. H. Kennett refused to sign a pledge to formally ban beer and Sunday baseball, so the other owners formally expelled Cincinnati!  When  attempts to form a new league failed, a new independent ball club known as the Red Stockings was formed in the Spring of 1881, and the team was brought to St. Louis for a weekend exhibition and eventually the American Association was formed.  The Cincinnati Red Stockings left the American Association on November 14, 1889 and joined the National League, changing their name from "Red Stockings" to simply "Reds."

If you'd like a pdf of this graph please email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com with "Cincinnati Reds" in the subject line and I'll send it to you.  If you'd like me to make you one, I can do that too, please email me for pricing.  

To make your own large throw, use 2 dc per graph square with an H hook.  If you are unsure how to begin, read this blog post on intarsia crochet, but let me know if you have trouble getting started.

If you like my work, please share using the Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest buttons below.  If you make one, I'd love to see a completed photo and with your permission, post it here or on Facebook.  If you post it yourself, please credit the design to me.

Dodge Charger graph for sale

This graph was created to make a throw sized afghan when using a J hook and 1 sc per graph square.  It uses 3 shades of blue along with black, white and gray, but can be customized to show the color of your choice.  Please email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com with your request and I'll send you an invoice via PayPal, or we can discuss payment options.  Graph is $5, no written instructions.

Pittsburgh Penguins graph

Who doesn't love an ice skating penguin?  The Pittsburgh Penguins logo hasn't changed much over the years, but for a brief period where the penguin wasn't ice skating.  They soon went back to another ice skating version, though. A more buff, masculine version (I didn't realize penguins could be buff, but look at that chest!).

If you'd like to make your own afghan from this graph email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com for the pdf, putting "Pittsburgh Penguins" in the subject line.  Use 2 dc per graph square with an H hook to make a twin size afghan.  If you'd like to make a throw size, increase the top and bottom by 5 rows and the left and right sides by 15 rows. Use a J hook and 1 sc per graph square.

Finished photo!  I trimmed the sides
by 10 and added 25 to top and bottom,
using 1 sc per square with a J hook.
Not what I said to do at all! ;-)

If you'd like me to make you one, I can do that too.  Email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com for pricing.

If you like this pattern, please share on Facebook or Twitter or whatever other social media platform you prefer and give me the credit for the graph ('cause that's just good manners 😉).

Same graph, different background.
Which do you like best?

Milwaukee Brewers

The Milwaukee Brewers have changed their logo several times over the years but I think this is the most recognized one. Or maybe it's just the one I like best 😀 .  It was recently changed again to a single M with a barley head from this baseball glove style MB. 

To make your own, email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com for the pdf of the graph, putting "Milwaukee Brewers" in the subject line. Use an H hook and 2 dc per graph square to get a twin sized afghan.  To get a 4 x 5 ft throw, use a J hook and 1 sc per graph square. Increase the number of rows on top and bottom by 5 each and left and right by 15 each.

If you'd like me to make you one, I can do that too.  Email me for pricing.

If you have a special request that hasn't been posted, please let me know and I'll see what I can do for you.

anxiety blanket

Weighted blankets have been in use for years to treat symptoms of sensory processing issues, but recently there is a lot of hype to treat insomnia and anxiety as well.  I have a close friend with anxiety and depression who often half-jokes about being out of order when her emotional issues flare up.  I created this graph as use for a weighted blanket with her in mind.

I plan on using 2 strands of WW yarn such as Red Heart when I make this (but using a chunky or bulky yarn would work too) with a J hook and 1 sc per graph square.  A commercially manufactured weighted blanket may have actual weights sewn in between the layers, but there is no need for that when using 2 strands or a super bulky yarn.  The effectiveness of the weighted blankets come from the heaviness of the total blanket, not from the individual beads sewn inside.  If you'd like to make it a lighter, regular throw, just use 1 strand of WW yarn.

If' you'd like to try this afghan for yourself, please email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com with "out of order" in the subject line.  If you have any questions, please put them in the body of your email.  I'd love to see a finished photo of your work, so after you've made it email it to me or share it on Twitter using @kendrascrochet  or Instagram using #kendrascrochetedcreations.  

Captain American themed free graph

Captain America is an enhanced Steve Rogers who was injected with a serum by the government to help with the war effort (WWII).  He was frozen in ice and suspended until the present day when he was thawed out and served the government again.  He stands for morals, patriotism, and truth, justice, and the American Way.

This graph was made to use 2 dc with an H hook to get a twin sized afghan.  If you'd like it to be smaller, 1 sc per graph square with a J hook will yield a 4 x 5 ft throw  if you increase the number of rows by 5 on each side and 15 on top and bottom.  I'd recommend working this one from the long side due to the lettering.  If you work it from the short side, a lot of the color changes will happen at the top and bottom and really slow things down.  See my post on intarsia crochet to get an idea how to do your color changes.

If you'd like the pdf of this graph, please email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com with "Captain America" in the subject line.  If you have any questions, please include them in the body of your email.

*tip: a border in red, white, and blue would really tie it together!

For Sale

 I have a collection of items in my possession that I've crocheted in order to write a pattern, give as gifts, or just to see if I could do it.  This is a small sample of items I have at home that I've decided to sell.  If you're interested in any of them please email me for pricing.  The items shown are a stuffed green frog, stuffed neon orange elephant, stuffed green hippo, stuffed raccoon with ice cream cone, fox-themed hood with ears, and blue shawlette.  The stuffed animals are approximately ten inches high, but I can measure if you'd like a precise measurement.  These are all one of a kind items, but I can make similar ones if you'd refer a different color or size.

Hello Kitty

Hello Kitty was created in 1974 by the Japanese Company Sanrio, and brought to the U.S. in 1976. She was purposely created without a mouth so that consumers could project their own feelings onto her and be happy, sad, angry, or whatever together with her. Also, she speaks from her heart, not with her mouth.

To get the pdf of this graph to create your own afghan, please email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com with "Hello Kitty" in the subject line.  Any questions should be in the body of the email.  At this time I have not completed the afghan myself so have no yarn amounts to share with you, but if you complete it and would like to send the information to me along with a photo to be shared here and/or on my Facebook page, I'd appreciate it! 

The graph is 120 x 100 squares.  I'd use an H hook and 2 dc per graph square to get a twin sized afghan.

If you like this, please let me know in the comments and share using the Facebook, Twitter, and Google plus buttons below.

Fight Like a Girl

After I made yesterday's pink ribbon post, I made up this boxing gloves graph to encourage our breast cancer fighting sisters.  Thanks for the inspiration, Gale, who asked for boxing gloves with the pink ribbon graph.

To get a twin mattress sized afghan (without putting on a border) use 2 dc per graph square with an H hook. Adding several rows of border will give you overhang for the twin bed.  To make this a 4 x 5 ft throw, add 5 rows to each side and 15 to top and bottom, but use a J hook and 1 sc per graph square. 

To request this graph, please email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com with "pink gloves" in the subject line.  If you have any questions, please put them in the body of your email.  If you'd like me to make one for you, I can do that too.  Email me for pricing. 

If you like this pattern, please share it using the buttons below, and I always love comments!

Breast Cancer Awareness Ribbon

I know this one is very plain, but it is halfway through October (breast cancer awareness month) and I haven't posted one yet! 

The pink ribbon is one of the most recognized symbols of silent support. We all know someone who has been touched by cancer (of some kind or another), either someone who has been diagnosed, or someone who is a mutual friend of someone who has been. 

Breast cancer awareness ribbons outwardly show our moral support for those who have been diagnosed with, are receiving treatment for, and are survivors of breast cancer. We wear these ribbons for our mothers, friends and lovers, and sisters.

Ladies, remember to do your self-exams and get your medical checkups!  There are people who love you and YOU should be one of them!!!

If you would like this free graph (graph only, no written instructions), please email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com with "Pink Ribbon" in the subject line.  If you use an H hook and 2 dc per graph square this should come out about twin mattress sized.  Adding a few rows of border will make it cover a twin bed nicely with a bit of overhang. If you'd like a smaller throw, use a J hook and 1 sc per graph square, but add 15 rows to the top and bottom, and add 5 rows to each side.

If you'd like me to make one for you I can do that too!  Email me for pricing.

If you have any questions or comments, you can either email me or leave a comment at the bottom of the page.

Vegas Knights

The [Las] Vegas Golden Knights were formed in 2017 and is the first major professional sports franchise to be based in Las Vegas.  The Golden Knights are the first team in NHL history to have started their inaugural season winning 8 of their first 9 games!  I think we can expect great things from this team!

If you would like the pdf of this graph, please email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com with "Vegas Golden Knights" in the subject line.  If you have any questions, please include them in the body of the email.

From this graph, if you use 2 dc per graph square with an H hook, your blanket should come out about twin mattress sized (around 3.5 x 6.5 ft) before including a border.  If you'd like a smaller throw, add 15 rows to each side of the graph and you'll get around a 5 ft square-ish afghan, using a J hook and 1 sc per graph square.  If you've never made a graphghan before, please read my post on intarsia crochet for tips and a little background.

If you'd like me to make it for you, I can do that too!  Please email me for pricing.

Super Mario Brothers graph

Mario is one of the most recognizable video game characters. This plump plumber in the Nintendo world has been smashing blocks, riding turtle shells, and stomping gumbas for decades!  He's one of my son's favorite characters of all time, and I decided to create a graph of him when I had an email asking if there was one available.  I don't know why I didn't think of it before, but here he is!  The graph is 90 squares wide by 120 tall.  If you want a twin sized afghan, use 2 dc per graph square (so it's 180 stitches wide) but do not double the rows!  There will still be 120 rows.  Use an H hook to get this size.  If you want a smaller throw, use 1 sc per graph square with a J hook and increase the rows by 5 on each side, and 15 on top and bottom.

If you'd like a Mario blanket of your own, email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com with pricing info for a completed afghan, or request the free pdf of this graph to make one yourself.

Mickey Mouse free graph

I was about 3 years old when my grandpa and I were walking through a department store together and I saw a single Mickey Mouse stuffed plush toy on the floor near a whole basket full of them.  I picked it up and my grandpa told me to put it back but I wouldn't (what did I know, I was 3!) and I apparently threw quite a fit when he tried to take it from me to put back himself.  Well, grandpas being what they are, he decided it would be easier to buy it for me. Guess what, though? It didn't have a price tag.  He dragged me all over that store, holding on to that stuffed mouse, to find an employee that he could ask about the price.  Not one could tell him. They tried to find another one like it but there wasn't one in the whole bin!  They were all different.  I'm not sure how they came about a price for it, but eventually I took that little guy home and I've had him ever since.  That was 39 years ago! His eyes have had the paint scraped off them, the tip of his nose fell off, his plush is matted down and one arm has had to be sewn back on, but I still have him.  I slept with him every night until I left for college. I was afraid if I took him with me he'd get lost somehow and if I left him home at least he'd be safe.  He's been chewed on, cried on, drooled on, and listened to all my adolescent woes.  I've collected loads of Mickey Mouse over the years from people but I never cared as much for them.  I think it was because they weren't from my grandpa.

My cousin recently asked me to make a baby blanket with Mickey Mouse.  I graphed this one up and thought of Grandpa the whole time.  To make the blanket I think I will use a G hook and 1 sc per graph square with Caron simply soft.   I'll post a finished photo when I'm done.  If you'd like to make your own, you can download this graph at kendrascrochetedcreations.com

In the comments below, let me know your thoughts and if you have a similar experience with a stuffed animal, or other toy you'd like to share.

I forgot to post a finished photo, but Jeannie sent me hers!

Thank you, Jeannie!

And Dorothy made one with a white background and no border.
Looks great, Dorothy!

Free Minion graph

What is a minion?  By definition, "a follower or underling of a powerful person, especially a servile or unimportant one," but that doesn't all apply to the minions of Gru (Despicable Me franchise). They are most certainly not unimportant!  They do most of Gru's hands-on work for him, whether in the lab or cleaning his house.  He is lost with out them!

They have masculine names like Kevin and Stuart, but no distinguishing gender characteristics.  They can be tall (for a minion-almost 4 feet), short, skinny, heavy, one-eyed, or two-eyed. Or, like Bob (not pictured) extra short, extra heavy, and with 2 eyes of different colors (did you even notice that?)! Also, they have no ears so their glasses (and they all wear glasses!) are strapped on.

Most importantly, they are happiest when serving. I love that!  I like to be helpful myself so appreciate that trait in others.  Besides, it makes them even more adorable than their cuddly looking bodies themselves.

To make your own minion afghan, use an H hook and 2 dc per graph square. Your finished product should turn out around twin-sized.  If you want smaller, use a J hook and 1 sc per graph square, but increase the number of rows on top and bottom by 15 and on each side by 5.  If you want the full sized pdf, email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com with "Minion Graph" in the subject line.  Any questions can be put in the body of the email.  If you make it, please tag #kendrascrochetedcreations on social media with the finished photo and email me a copy to be featured here or on my Facebook page!

Dance graph (paid pattern)

There is something about dancing that makes people happy.  Moving our bodies to a rhythm is therapeutic, and repetitive motions are soothing.  Whether we are slowly and gracefully dancing, or jumping around to a heavy beat, our brains seem to respond with endorphins and the exercise makes us feel better.

Make this personalized afghan (or I can!) for your favorite ballet dancer to cuddle up under after a rehearsal or performance. Show your appreciation for their hard work.

This graph can be made with any name or without personalization.  I can make you one, or you can send $5 via PayPal to kendrascrochet@gmail.com with the message "Dance Graph" and the personalization info.  I will then email you hook size and general instructions (no written pattern) for you to make one yourself.  I will send a preview of what the graph will look like for your approval before sending the pdf. 

Leave your comments and thoughts below!

Tote bag lining tutorial

Since my first purse lining, I've done a few more and gotten better. I've lined cylindrical drawstring bags, rectangle totes, small circular purses, and who knows what else.  I'm still no expert, but I think I have the hang of it!

If you don't have basic sewing skills I suggest you learn.  Just enough to make a seam is fine.  You do not need a sewing machine, but it makes it much quicker.

eh, about 10 1/2 inches, I guess

To line my CHD tote bag from the previous post's tutorial, I first measure the bag. It doesn't have to be exact, a rough idea is fine.  I get 12 inches wide by 10 1/2 inches tall. Actually if you can't find a tape measure, just trace around the outside of the bag.  Like I said, it can be rough. We'll fix it when we seam them together.

 Cut out your pieces (for this bag, I just want 2 rectangles to sew together because it's a rather shallow bag). I cut out two 10 1/2 x 12 inch rectangles out of some jersey (tee-shirt material) I had from a previous project.  Sew around the sides and bottom of the pieces, right sides together.

Sew around sides and bottoms
of cut out pieces

I ironed down the top edge toward the outside, but I forgot to take a picture (what is wrong with me!).  *You need to turn down the top edge toward the outside and iron it down!

I will be hand sewing the top edge onto the bag. I don't want the stitches shown on the outside of the bag.

Now insert the lining into the bag.  Line up the side seams with the sides of the bag.  The seams should be on the outside of the lining, touching the inside of the bag.  The neat seam should be on the inside. Pin sides in place, just below the top line of crochet stitches. Then pin the heck out of the middles! Pin every inch of it! Leave no inch unpinned! The more the better! Pin, pin, pin!

insert needle through,
hiding knot between bag
and fabric

go under the yarn,
but not through bag

Start with your needle on the wrong side of the lining and insert it to the inside of the lining, to hide the knot between the bag and fabric (see photo). You can start anywhere, but I always start by a side seam.  Then, insert your needle through the lining, back toward the bag, going under one leg of one sc stitch, but not through to the outside of the bag.  Try not to split the yarn.  Bring your needle back through the lining to make your next stitch start where your last stitch ended.  Keep repeating this method all around bag. Do not pull the thread too tight or the lining will pucker. Keep a steady tension and try to keep your stitches even. I'm using white thread on a white lining in a white bag so if my stitches are a bit uneven I don't think anyone will notice.

Finished photos at the bottom of this post.

I hope this tutorial helps you with your purse/tote linings!  If you have any questions or comments, let me know!  You can leave comments here (please do!) or email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com and let me know if anything needs clarification or if you have any problems following my instructions.

go back through same place

close up photo of finished lining

Finished lining!

free Zoidberg graph

Need to crochet an afghan?  Why not Zoidberg?

Dr. John Zoidberg, a crustacean doctor specializing in alien physiology (but not human! Oh boy, not human!) is the company doctor for the Planet Express crew of Futurama.  He is exceedingly poor, homeless, friendless, smelly, and eats out of trash cans ("a feast is a feast!"). He is oblivious to social propriety, but extremely loyal to the crew.  He is one of my favorite characters on the show so I made a graph of him (no, I haven't made this one yet either...I'm beginning to see a pattern with my procrastination, do you?). 

If you'd like the pdf of this graph, email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com with "Zoidberg" in the subject line.   To make the blanket, use an H hook and 2 dc per graph square to get a twin-sized afghan (or close to it).  To get a 5 x 6 ft afghan, use a J hook and 1 sc per graph square, increasing the rows by 5 on top and bottom and by 15 on each side.  If you make this, please tag #kendrascrochetedcreations on social media and send me a copy of your finished product so I can feature it here or on my Facebook page! Leave me your thoughts below and share with the social media buttons!

Tote bag tutorial

I love bags. Purses, wallets, tote bags, drawstring bags, backpacks, hobo bags, I love them all!  I have a weakness for them.  I enjoy filling them with my treasured items and carrying them from place to place. I love the designs, the different sizes, the pockets - oh the pockets!

Let's put 2 of my favorite things together.  Crochet and Bags.  Actually, let's add fundraising in there too (but you don't have to work the pattern; you can still go through the tutorial in one color). I have a pattern made for a Congenital Heart Defect fundraiser that I'm dying to try out. If you'd like to work the CHD pattern on your tote bag, email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com if you'd like the pdf for an easier read.  Before we start:

1. First, use a durable yarn.  I stay away from animal fibers like wool when making bags because I've had a problem with yarn breakage.  Of course you can join the broken yarn and keep going, but I prefer to use a single long strand of yarn for as long as I can before attaching another one.  It looks better without a join and I think it stays stronger.  Every join is an opportunity for a weakness in the structure.  For this project I'm using Bernat Super Value.
2. Use tight, close stitches, and/or a lining.  This will keep the bag from stretching and give it a sturdy structure that will hold up to use. For this bag we'll be using single crochet throughout, but that isn't necessary for every bag, especially if you line it.  Feel free to mix up your stitches to give a different texture.
3. Go through both loops of each stitch.  This will reinforce the stitches and keep it from stretching also.

This will be a simple pattern. You'll need to know chain stitches and single crochet.  If you need to learn these first, go to https://www.craftsy.com/crocheting/article/crochet-for-beginners/ before you begin.

The pattern:

where you go around the other side

1. With an F (or G-I worked mine with an F and my wrists are screaming at me!) hook and WW yarn, ch 52. Sc in 2nd chain from hook and next 49. 3 sc in last ch.  Keep working around opposite side of starting chain (see photos). Sc in next 50. 3 sc in end st. Do not join, do not turn.
2. sc in next 51.  By this time, you may be noticing that your work is starting to curl or corkscrew.  That's fine.  Keep going, it will work itself out. 3 sc in next, sc in 51.
3. 2 sc, sc, 2 sc, sc in 51, 2 sc sc, 2 sc, sc in 51.
4. You can keep increasing the base of the bag if you like, but I'm going to stop my increases here and just work on the sides.  To work on the sides without color changes, just keep sc through both loops around without any increases on the ends. Go as high as you want!  Make that bag as tall or short as you like it. When you have it as high as you want, skip to the section  marked "strap." If you're working the CHD graph, this is where things change a bit:
5. To work the graph, first work 2 rows even. That will take care of the 2 white rows of graph squares at the bottom of the graph (we do have to work the graph from the bottom up!).
6. Now that we're at a color changing row, we'll have to start working back and forth and joining. This is because the color changes are only on one side of the bag. I'm doing this for a couple reasons.
   A. I'm thinking about "surface crocheting" a different design on the other side. We'll see.

   

   The inside-see what I mean? Yuck!

   
   B. More importantly, carrying the yarn all the way around the end to the other side will affect the bag by changing the tension.  I plan on lining this bag so I'm not going to crochet over the red strand (tapestry crochet) because it will be visible under the white but since I'm lining it anyway, I'll just leave it hang on the inside and pick it up where it's needed. The strands will be covered by the lining. If you aren't lining your bag and want to add the design on both sides, I recommend starting a different skein for the opposite side of the bag so you won't have to crochet over the red strand and have it show through all around the edge.
   So, to join and start a new row, when you're done with the 2nd row of working even, sc 3 more to put you at the end of the bag, then sl st in the next.
7. ch 1, turn. Start working design on graph from the bottom of the lettering of the word "Warrior." Sc around opposite side of bag till you come to the join. sc in the ch 1 sp, then join with a sl st to the first sc of the round.
8. Ch 1, turn.  Work around bag, following the graph when you get back around to the lettering. Continue until graph is finished.

Strap:

sl st to opp end of bag on opp side

Make sure your hook is at the very edge when bag is laid flat. If working in the round (not joining) you may have to add or subtract a few stitches to get your hook in position.

1. Ch 1, turn.  sc in next 6.
2. repeat step 1 until strap is desired length (mine was 130 rows)
3. sl st to opposite end of bag, on opposite side. Fasten off, weave in ends.
   
   

   

   The finished front

If you have any questions or if something is unclear, please leave a comment or email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com.  I want to make sure this tutorial is usable for you, and I plan on making more! Next up-lining the bag to cover the ugly inside (or just because you want a lining!

 

free Snoopy graph

Snoopy, Charlie Brown's pet beagle, is considered wildly imaginative and confident.   He's hip, aloof, and a canine Master of Disguise (remember Joe Cool?).  He's the pet we all wished we had. Now we can!  In yarn form, of course.  Use an H hook and 2 dc per graph square to get a twin sized blanket, add 5 rows to each side and 10 to top and bottom and work with a J hook and 1 sc per graph square to get a 5 x 6 ft throw.  Work the back ground color in your favorite shades, or leave white.  Email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com for the pdf of this graph. Put "Dancing Snoopy graph" in the subject line of your email.  Any questions should be in the body of the email.  There are no written instructions for this graph.  If you make it, please credit me with the design of the graph and tag #kendrascrochetedcreations on social media.  Leave your thoughts in the comments below and please share using the buttons below this post.

Jughead Jones free graph

When I was a little girl, there was a bookstore about a half mile from my home where I would go and read the comic books.  I'd walk there with my older brother who would pick up the newest action/adventure/sci-fi type book and he'd find me with my nose in the Archie Andrews section of the magazine rack when he was ready to leave.  My favorite character was Jughead Jones.  Whenever there was a "Jughead double digest" I'd buy it and bring it home. I thought he was smart, funny, and amusing to read about.  I loved how much he could eat and still stay skinny (a talent I wish I had myself!). I admired his loyalty to his friends. 

I never was sure about that hat, though...

If you'd like to make your own Forsythe P. (Jughead) Jones afghan, please email me at kendrascrochet@gmail.com for the pdf of this graph.  Put "Jughead graph" in the subject line and any questions in the body of your email.  Work it with an H hook and 2 dc per graph square to get an approximately 5 x 6 ft afghan. 

I haven't made this one myself yet, it's on the ever growing list of things I want to make myself but probably won't.  I'd love to see your finished product.  Tag #kendrascrochetedcreations on social media and send  me a copy to be featured here or on my Facebook page.