Testing Patterns

I absolutely Love testing patterns. And it's not for the reason most would assume.

When I test a pattern my main job is to help ensure the accuracy of the pattern for the writer. I am currently testing two patterns and am so excited about them. I always find that I learn new techniques when I'm testing. And if I'm not learning new things I am finally getting the handle on a stitch or technique I just couldn't get a handle on.

For instance, the foundation chain. Now I have seen it, saved an image of the instructions typed on it. But-for some reason, beyond me, I just couldn't get the hang of it. Until these two patterns. And finally, Finally, I got it. And now I think, why couldn't I get it before?! So easy when you have just the right instructions I front you.

With most patterns there is a key that lists the stitches used through out. But these patterns-the writers went above and beyond with full instructions on how to execute Special Stitches. Normally, if there is a stitch I don't know I type it into Google, click the video tab and watch a few tutorials. But the Special Stitches key is like icing on the cake.

Testing patterns doesn't just help the writer to ensure the pattern is clearly written, rated at the correct experience level and grammatical errors are corrected. It also helps the me grow as an artisan. As I already mentioned, it helps me get a grasp on stitches I haven't been able to in the past as well as building my stitch capabilities. Testing patterns also helps me build a better structure for writing my own patterns.

Every writer has their own methods and set up, but as a writer of few patterns it is helpful to examine other patterns to get an idea of what works best for you. Now, you could say that you can get from working patterns up and you'd be right. But I encourage, that if you ever get the chance, to jump right in. It's a lot of fun.

xoxoLexy

Ankle Cuffs

Happy Saturday Everyone!

Are you ready for a new pattern? Because I am ready to release it. 

The idea for my  newest pattern was born when I was making the Ridged Cable Leg Warmers. The best part of these ankle cuffs is they can be worn with the Ridged Cable Leg Warmers or by themselves.

I am so excited I have gotten all of my notes back from my testers for the new ankle cuffs so quickly again. They are the Best!!! All edits have been made.
This is a Lexy's HandMade Creations Original. Please feel free to share this pattern with your friends by sharing the link, or directing them to my blog. Also, if you post any images using this pattern I ask that you be kind enough to give me a mention as the designer. :)

Have Fun.

xoxoLexy

Materials Needed

I Hook

RedHeart SuperSaver 7oz skein

Yarn needle

2 Buttons per cuff

Clasps

Sewing Thread

Embroidery Needle

Stitches Used

Chain (ch)

Half Double Crochet (hdc)

Double Crochet (dc)

*To get the ridge effect you will have to know how to work in the front loops (FLO) of certain stitches.

*I do not ch at the end of my rows.

Finished Measurements

Fold in half, side to side, top is roughly 4"

Top center to bottom center height is roughly 4"

Let's get started!

Ch 31

Hdc in second ch from the hook and in each ch across, (30) turn

Row 2: Hdc in FLO of each st across, (30) turn

Row 3: Hdc in first 14 sts, 2hdc in next 2 sts, Hdc in last 14 sts, (32) turn

Row 4: Hdc in FLO of first 15 sts, 2hdc in FLO of next 2 sts, hdc in FLO of last 15 sts, (34) turn

Row 5: Hdc in first 7 sts, *skip next st, 3dc in next st, skip next st, hdc in next st,* repeat once,  skip next st, (3dc, ch1, 3dc) in next st, *skip next st, Hdc in next st, skip next st, 3dc in next st,* repeat once, skip next st, hdc sc last two sts together, (36) turn

Row 6: Hdc in FLO of first 7, *skip  next st, (2dc, ch1, 2dc) in next dc, skip next st, hdc in FLO of hdc,* repeat once, skip next st, 3dc in next dc, (3dc, ch1, 3dc) in ch space, skip next st, 3dc in next dc, *hdc in FLO of next hdc, skip next st, (2dc, ch1, 2dc) in next dc,* repeat once, hdc in FLO of last 7 sts, (46) turn

Row 7: Hdc in first 7 sts, *(3dc, ch 1, 3dc) in next ch 1 space, hdc in next hdc st,* repeat once, [skip next st, 3dc in next dc,skip next 2 sts, 3dc in next dc], (3dc, ch 1, 3dc) in next ch space, repeat from [ to ] once, {hdc in next hdc st, (3dc, ch 1, 3dc) in next ch 1 space}, repeat from { to } once, hdc in last 7 sts, (60), fasten off and sew in end.

Sew your buttons onto the back side so they can be used with your leggings.

Sew a clasp or two on the front side so they can be used alone.

Seaside Inspired Patterns

  Here is a collection of Seaside Inspired Patterns form some fabulous designer friends of mine.
Enjoy!!

  Sea Breeze Summer Cowl: Cre8tion Crochet

  Sea Breeze Summer Slouch: Cre8tion Crochet

  Seaside Tank FREE pattern: Cre8tion Crochet

  Sea Breeze Slippers: Pattern Paradise

  Do you have any Seaside or Summer inspired patterns? Share them in a comment below.

  Have a Blessed Day
  Lexy

Craft your Patriotism

With Memorial Day and the Fourth of July right around the corner I thought I would gather up some links to some great projects to help you show off your patriotism.

Enjoy!!

Stars & Stripes Bunting

Patriotic Bow Tie For Dogs, Pets and Humans

Uncle Sam's Top Hat

Flag Dog Sweater - Patriotic Sweater For Dogs PAID

Patriotic Dog Hat PAID

Star Spangled Banner Crochet Bunting

American Flag Wreath Crochet Pattern

May the 4th be with You!!

Happy Sunday All!!
Now normally I do not post on Sundays, but my inner nerd is in need of a break out. Tehe.
So today I bring you links to amazing crochet patterns that are all Star Wars all the Time.
Enjoy!
R2D2
Multiple Pieces
Boba Fett PAID
R2D2 Hats on Etsy
Multiple Pieces
Twi'lek PAID
Jabba the Hut PAID
Yoda i5 case
Jawa
Princess Leia Hat PAID
Yoda Hat for your Pooch

I'd like to introduce you to Manda Nicole, from MNE Crafts.

 Good morning everyone. I would like to introduce you to Manda Nicole from MNE Crafts. Today she will be sharing with us her journey in the crochet, pattern writing world. Please be sure to visit her blog and see what other amazing patterns she has to offer.

 I first learned to crochet when I was a pre-teen. A woman I knew was making baby blankets and I admired how she took basically nothing and turned it into something amazing. I wanted to do that. I struggled to get her to teach me. She showed me how to make a chain but, for whatever reason, I could not grasp the idea of turning around. Until, one day I got it. From there I continued practicing. People gave me pointers here or there but, for the most part, I taught myself.

  It wasn’t until I was pregnant with my daughter that I truly got into crochet though. I wanted to make her something special and was bound and determined to make her a blanket. That blanket took me from 17 weeks gestation to 39 weeks gestation. I finished it about 2 days before I had her! I even made her matching mittens with the left over material. That was in 2010 and I’ve not stopped since!

  Pattern writing was something I had absolutely no interest in. It seemed like to much work. Every now and then, I’d write down what I did and share it on my blog. I didn’t really have an audience so I didn’t put much work into it. It was as simple as “I did this, this and this… good luck!” I can say I have a completely different attitude about designing now and wish I’d realized earlier that it was my calling. I love everything about it and almost wish I could go back in time and start sooner!

  The first free pattern I have listed on my blog is for some leg warmers I made for my daughter back at the

end of 2012. The pattern includes one size, the format looks completely wonky, there is no gauge listed, no material listed…. Just an image (no watermark), the size, the hook and the pattern.  Even then, the pattern leaves so much to be desired simply due to the horrid formatting!

  My latest free pattern is one I call the Vintage Tulip Sun Hat and I made it for no particular reason at all. The image includes two angles, the name and a watermark to make pinning easier,  I start the pattern off with the hook, the material I used and the “in pattern” gauge. I then follow that with a Hints & Tips section. I include any questions my testers had (I actually have my patterns tested before sharing them now) as well as anything I thought was a little outside the pattern norm and might confuse people.  I also use this space as a little “cheat” spot – hehe. For example, instead of writing Ch 1 (doesn’t count as a stitch) at the start of every round, I just put it at the top that it doesn’t count. It makes things so much easier! The formatting on this pattern is completely different from the leg warmers as well. I have the instructions numbered and use bold lettering to make it easier to keep track of where you’re at in the pattern. I also include three different sizes!

 When I was first asked to share how I write patterns now to how I wrote them then, I knew there would be some big changes but I don’t think I fully realized just how different the two patterns would be! If I didn’t know better, I’d think they were written by two different designers. Looking back and comparing myself has really given me a perspective of how much I’ve grown and changed as a designer and I feel a sense of pride right now!

  I’ve been crocheting off and on for over ten years and actively for about four. In that time the three tips I’m most grateful for learning are:

1.The magic circle and making sure it is tied so it doesn’t come out!

2.Mark your stitches if it tells you to! – I once didn’t and had to completely start over!

3. Gauge is not something to be ignored. It’s actually VERY important. 

Summer Pattern Round Up

Today I want to share with you links to some great Summer crochet patterns.
I hope you enjoy them.

Please visit my friend from MNE Crafts to find these and other cool patterns to use for your next crochet project.
Link to the first hat is: Eccentric Beanie
Link to the second hat is: Springtime Showers Sun Hat
Make sure to comment on the patterns you love and bookmark them for future use.

Here are some other Patterns good for Summer!!!

Shell Stitch Tank Top

Crochet Baby Sandals

Seaside Beach Bag Crochet Pattern

Girls Bolero Shrug

Cross Stitch Beanie

Hi Everyone!
  Today I bring you my next free pattern. It is a Cross stitch beanie, current size will fit 3 months and up. I will be writing up a new pattern for other sizes, so keep checking back for those.  This pattern was written while sitting on my sofa and has been tested. I hope you enjoy this pattern as much as I enjoyed creating it.

Here is the Hat:

Tester Images:

And the Pattern: 

Enjoy and Have a Blessed Day

Lexy

Pattern Share-Moogly

I found this gorgeous Sweater pattern on Moogly tonight and am in LOVE!!!!
If you are looking for a great pattern to work up, might I suggest this one.