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The Ultimate Guide to Crocheting a Temperature Blanket

by | Crochet Blankets

Author: Alison Heathcote   –   Published: December 2023   –   Revised: January 2024

What is a Temperature Blanket?

Practical Significance

A crochet temperature blanket is a beautiful and creative way to capture the changing temperatures throughout a specific year and location. Imagine, you can craft a temperature blanket that represents the upcoming year in your very own city.

This unique and popular crafting project allows you to blend artistry with the ebb and flow of the seasons. But it doesn’t stop there; temperature blankets can hold special significance beyond just tracking the weather.

 

 

Meaningful

Creating a temperature blanket can be a deeply personal and meaningful experience. It can serve as a practical and heartwarming memento, especially when crafted to commemorate the year and location of your child’s birth.

This thoughtful gesture not only showcases your artistic skills but also honors a momentous event in your life. It becomes a warm and cozy reminder of the time when your child entered the world.

Cherish

The beauty of temperature blankets is that they can be cherished by individuals of all ages. Even as children grow up, they continue to hold a special place in their hearts for these unique blankets. Grown-up children often find comfort in the nostalgia of their birth year’s temperature blanket. It’s a tangible connection to their past, a piece of art that grows with them, just like the memories it represents.

Memories

So, as you embark on your journey to create a crochet temperature blanket, keep in mind the endless possibilities it offers. Not only can you capture the year’s temperature fluctuations, but you can infuse it with love, memories, and the vibrant colors you adore as an aspiring artist. 

Let the tapestry of weather and life’s moments intertwine, resulting in a truly exceptional and heartwarming creation. Whether it’s for the upcoming year or to commemorate a special occasion, your temperature blanket will undoubtedly become a cherished piece of art that warms both your body and soul.

thermometer

What are Temperatures?

High Temperatures

In crochet temperature blankets, we utilize the highest temperature recorded each day to weave a colorful narrative of the year. This unique crafting project not only captures the changing weather but also offers flexibility when it comes to temperature measurement methods. The choice of measurement depends on your location and personal preference, ensuring that the blanket aligns with your familiar temperature scale.

US Crocheters: Imperial – Fahrenheit

For crocheters in the United States, temperatures are commonly measured in Fahrenheit. This scale is the go-to for those accustomed to using it, and it lends itself perfectly to documenting the year’s weather highs. In Fahrenheit, freezing point is at 32 degrees, while water boils at 212 degrees at sea level.

UK Crocheters: Metric – Celsius

On the other hand, in the United Kingdom, Europe, Canada, and South Africa, Celsius is the preferred temperature scale for creating temperature blankets. This scale is easy to work with and gives you a unique perspective on temperature changes.

Here, zero Celsius signifies the freezing point of water, while 100 degrees Celsius indicates the boiling point at sea level. These technical details, though interesting, are entirely optional and can be set aside if you prefer to focus on the artistic aspect of your project.

What about Kelvin?

And then there’s the Kelvin scale, which, as you mentioned, we need not concern ourselves with for the purpose of crafting a temperature blanket. It’s typically used in scientific contexts and not necessary for our creative endeavor.

Canada – Celsius

As for me, residing in Canada, I personally favor the Celsius scale for my temperature blanket projects. It resonates with our daily experiences, where zero means water freezes and 100 represents the boiling point. While these benchmarks may be of scientific significance, they don’t need to be the primary focus when crafting your temperature blanket.

Temperature Scale

The beauty of crochet temperature blankets lies not in the technicalities of temperature measurement but in the artistic journey they offer.

You have the freedom to choose the scale that resonates with you and best reflects the temperatures in your region. Whether it’s Fahrenheit, Celsius, or even another scale specific to your locale, what truly matters is the vibrant colors and artistic expression that emerge as you crochet your way through the year.

So, select the scale you’re most comfortable with, embrace the creative process, and let your temperature blanket tell the story of the year in a way that’s uniquely your own.

Choosing a Location for Your Temperature Blanket

Where?

Creating an accurate and meaningful temperature blanket involves consistency in the location where you gather temperature data throughout the entire year. Let’s delve into this concept further to ensure you have a clear understanding of how to construct your temperature blanket.

Your Home

Consider my own situation as an example.

I reside in Vancouver, Canada, and I find the high temperatures I need for my temperature blanket by consulting a reliable weather app each day. This practice is essential because it ensures that I’m collecting temperature data from the same geographical point throughout the year. Using a consistent data source, such as a weather app, helps maintain the integrity of the project, as it eliminates variations that might occur if data were gathered from different locations.

Microclimate

This consistency in location is pivotal because temperatures can vary significantly even within the same city. Factors like microclimates, proximity to bodies of water, or urban heat islands can all influence daily temperature fluctuations.

By obtaining temperature readings from a single, reliable source within your specific location, you ensure that your temperature blanket accurately reflects the year’s climate as experienced in your immediate vicinity.

Be Consistent

So, whether you’re in Vancouver, Canada, or any other place in the world, the key is to choose one consistent location for collecting your temperature data. This location could be your home, your workplace, or any other spot that’s convenient for you. The goal is to capture the temperatures as they occur at a single point, so your temperature blanket can authentically represent the year’s weather in your area.

Weather Apps

Additionally, using a reliable weather app or a trusted source for temperature data is an efficient way to stay up-to-date with daily highs. Many weather apps provide historical data as well, which can be invaluable when you start crocheting your blanket. It’s a convenient way to ensure that you have access to accurate temperature information for the entire year.

Temperature Accuracy

To create a temperature blanket that faithfully reflects the weather of your location, maintain consistency by measuring temperatures at the same place throughout the year. In my case, living in Vancouver, Canada, I rely on a weather app for my daily high temperature data.

This practice ensures the accuracy and authenticity of my temperature blanket, and I encourage you to adopt a similar approach for your own creative project, regardless of your location. By doing so, you’ll be able to craft a unique and meaningful piece of art that tells the story of the year’s weather as it unfolded right where you are.

graph-high-temperatures-in-vancouver

Where to get Temperatures for Your Temperature Blanket

How Hot is It?

When it comes to selecting a source for your daily temperature readings for your temperature blanket, it’s important to emphasize consistency. While there may be various temperature measurements available from nearby locations, such as the airport or even in the mountains, it’s crucial to maintain uniformity in your data collection process.

Same Source

The key principle to remember is to obtain your temperatures from the same source each day. This principle ensures that your temperature blanket remains a reliable and accurate representation of the year’s climate as experienced at your chosen location.

Garden Thermometer

In some cases, individuals might have a thermometer conveniently placed in their garden. If this is the case for you, reading the temperature from your garden thermometer can be an excellent choice.

It offers the advantage of a nearby and accessible source that can serve as the foundation for your temperature data. Just remember to read it consistently each day to maintain the desired level of uniformity.

Fluctuations

While it’s important to adhere to this principle of consistency, it’s also vital to acknowledge that there’s no need to worry about the “temperature police” coming to check on your data collection process. There won’t be any official audits of your temperature readings.

The essence of creating a temperature blanket is to enjoy the creative process and capture the weather’s fluctuations in a personal and meaningful way.

Sentimental Value

Ultimately, the goal is to create a temperature blanket that holds sentimental value and accurately represents the year’s temperature trends in your specific location.

So, while adhering to the practice of consistency is advised, it’s equally important to embrace the creative journey and not become overly concerned about strict rules or regulations.

Authenticity in Temperatures

Whether you choose a nearby location, a garden thermometer, or any other source for your temperature readings, the core principle remains the same: collect your temperatures from the same place each day for the sake of consistency.

This approach ensures the authenticity of your temperature blanket, reflecting the true climate of your selected location throughout the year.

And remember, the most important aspect of this project is to enjoy the process and create a cherished piece of art that tells the story of the year’s weather in your unique and artistic way.

Shopping for Temperature Blanket Yarns

Plan Ahead

When embarking on your temperature blanket journey, it’s advisable to plan ahead and purchase all the colors you anticipate needing right from the start. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you have the right materials and approach:

Plan Your Color Palette

Begin by planning the color palette for your temperature blanket. It’s essential to have a variety of colors that can represent the different temperature ranges. Keep in mind that, at the outset, you won’t know how much of each color you’ll need because you can’t predict the year’s temperatures.

Initial Yarn Purchase

To get started, purchase one ball of yarn in each color you’ve chosen. This approach allows you to begin without the pressure of predicting how the temperatures will vary. Starting with one ball of each color is a practical way to initiate your project.

Yarn Variety

It’s a smart move to select a yarn brand that offers a wide range of colors. This way, you have the flexibility to adapt your color choices as the year progresses. One such versatile option is Lion Brand Impeccable, which boasts a rich assortment of hues to suit your creative vision.

As you consider the colors for your temperature blanket, here’s a list of colors you can find in Lion Brand Impeccable:

White

Soft Taupe

Aran

Black

Chocolate

Gold

Pumpkin

Teal

Aqua

Lavender

Grape

Amethyst

Bright Sky Blue

Kelly Green

Grass Green

Red

Cherry Red

Soft Rose

Magenta

Claret

Color Range

Having this range of colors at your disposal means you can adapt your color choices as the seasons change and temperature data accumulates.

You can adjust your palette based on the actual temperature highs, creating a vibrant and meaningful representation of the year.

Pre-purchase

When starting your temperature blanket project, be well-prepared by purchasing all your chosen colors in advance. Opt for a yarn brand like Lion Brand Impeccable with a diverse selection of colors, and begin with one ball of each color.

This flexible approach allows you to adjust your color choices as the year unfolds, ensuring that your temperature blanket is not only a work of art but a true reflection of the year’s weather patterns.

Temperature Blanket Yarn

I recommend Impeccable yarn by Lion Brand. It is a [4] weight yarn and you can use a 5mm hook for your Granny squares.

Colour Palette

Celcius

My color palette for each temperature is:

 

  • Zero and below white,
  • 1C to 2C cream,
  • 3C to 4C taupe,
  • 5C to 6C light blue,
  • 7C to 8C teal,
  • 9C to 10C green,
  • 11C to 12C lemon,
  • 13C to 14C yellow gold,
  • 15C to 16C orange,
  • 17C to 18C pink,
  • 19C to 20C hot pink,
  • 21C to 22C red,
  • 23C to 24C magenta,
  • 25C to 26C violet,
  • 27C to 28C purple,
  • 29C and above black,

    Square-a-Day Temperature Blanket

    Make one granny square every day in the Color of the high temperature. If you use 4 weight yarn and a 5mm hook then the sizes of the blanket at the end will be different.

    2-Round Granny

    This will result in a small blanket approximately.  By

    3-Round Granny

    This will result in a smaller medium blanket approximately. By.

    4-Round Granny

    This will result in a large blanket approximately

    Leap Year Square Temperature Blanket

    Leap Years are 2016, 2020, 2024, 2028, 2032…

     

    Layout

    Let’s delve into the specifics of creating a square layout for your temperature blanket for a leap year. Leap years, as you’ve rightly pointed out, have an extra day in February, making the month 29 days instead of the usual 28. This slight difference requires some adjustment in the square layout to accurately to depict the year’s temperature changes.

    First Row of Granny Squares

    In this case, the first row of your temperature blanket will consist of 18 squares. This row spans from January 1st to January 18th, covering the initial part of the year.

    Each square in this row represents a day’s high temperature, allowing you to document the gradual transition from the old year to the new.

    Second Row

    Now, as we move into the second row, we start on January 19th, but there’s a bit of a puzzle here since February has an extra day in each leap lear.

    To ensure that each row contains 18 squares, the second row will extend to February 5th, which covers the full month of January and a few days into February.

    Prepare

    It’s worth noting that when laying out your temperature blanket, it’s a common practice to begin each row from the right and work your way to the left.

    This approach ensures that the most recent temperature data is at the forefront of your creation, and it’s easier to keep track of your progress.

    Number of Squares

    In total, your temperature blanket for leap years will comprise of 21 rows. These rows will allow you to showcase the temperature fluctuations experienced throughout the year, including the additional day in February due to the leap year.

    Last Row

    As for the last row of your temperature blanket, it will indeed be unique due to the leap year. Since the last day of February in a leap year is the 29th, you’ll need to determine the number of squares in the final row once you’ve completed the previous rows.

    This will depend on factors such as the dimensions of your blanket and the size of the squares you’ve been using. You can calculate how many squares fit within the space you have available, and this will determine the number of squares in the last row.

    Leap Year

    Leap years present an exciting challenge for your temperature blanket.

    By carefully planning and adjusting the square layout, you can accurately capture the year’s temperature changes, from January 1st to February 29th.

    Embrace this unique opportunity to showcase an extra day’s worth of weather data in your artistic creation, making it a truly memorable and distinct piece.

    End Gap: Year and City

    The ending gap is where you write the year and city for the which the temperature blanket is created.

    Temperature Blanket Border

    Finishing Touches

    A well-crafted temperature blanket not only showcases the beauty of the temperature data but also pays attention to the finishing details, including the border.

    The border serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, and its width is crucial for achieving the right visual balance.

    Balance

    The general rule of thumb when adding a border to your temperature blanket is to make it the same width as each square.

    This symmetry creates a harmonious and balanced look for your blanket, giving it a polished and cohesive appearance.

    Two-row Granny

    For those creating a two-row granny square temperature blanket, a border consisting of four rows is ideal. This border complements the dimensions of the squares, adding both structure and visual appeal to your creation. The four-row border adds a touch of elegance and frames your temperature squares neatly.

    Three-row Granny

    If your temperature blanket features three-row granny squares, a border with six rows is recommended. This broader border enhances the overall aesthetic and lends stability to the edges of the blanket. It’s a visually pleasing way to accentuate the unique patterns created by your three-row squares.

    Four-row Granny

    For those ambitious crocheters working on a four-row granny square temperature blanket, an eight-row border is the perfect choice.

    This deep border complements the larger squares and ensures the overall harmony of your creation.

    It adds a sense of completeness to the blanket, making it feel well-rounded and balanced.

    Proportion

    The correct proportioned border width is more than just a finishing touch. It brings visual balance to your temperature blanket, enhancing the appearance of the squares and creating a unified and visually appealing composition. When properly proportioned, the border not only frames the temperature squares but also complements the overall design, turning your blanket into a work of art.

    Visual Harmony

    When adding a border to your temperature blanket, consider the width carefully.

    Making the border the same width as each square ensures visual harmony and balance.

    Depending on the number of rows in your granny squares, choose an appropriate border depth: four rows for two-row granny squares, six rows for three-row granny squares, and eight rows for four-row granny squares.

    This attention to detail will not only showcase your artistic skills but also result in a temperature blanket that’s a true masterpiece, both in terms of data representation and aesthetic appeal.

    Plan your Temperature Blanket Success

    Success

    Achieving success with your temperature blanket project hinges on more than just the final product; it’s about enjoying the creative journey and ensuring you complete what you’ve started.

    Proper planning is the key to enhancing your chances of success, so let’s delve into this notion further.

    The Joy of Crafting

    Success in your temperature blanket endeavor isn’t solely about the end result; it’s also about the enjoyment you derive from the process. Crocheting a temperature blanket can be a fulfilling and meditative artistic endeavor. Each square you create becomes a brushstroke on the canvas of your year, and taking pleasure in the craft is an essential part of your success.

    Setting the Stage with Proper Planning

    Effective planning is the foundation of any successful project. In the case of your temperature blanket, it’s about organizing your materials, selecting the color palette, and establishing a clear framework. This initial planning phase sets you up for a smoother and more rewarding journey.

    Consistency is Key

    One of the ways to ensure success is by maintaining consistency in your crocheting routine. Dedicate a specific time each day or week to work on your temperature blanket. Consistency helps you make steady progress and keeps the project from feeling overwhelming.

    Adaptability and Flexibility

    While planning is crucial, remember that unexpected changes in weather are inevitable. Be prepared to adapt your color choices or design to accommodate unanticipated temperature variations. This flexibility is a sign of a successful approach, as it allows your blanket to truly reflect the year’s climate.

    Visualizing the End

    Picture the completed temperature blanket in your mind. Imagine how it will look with all the squares aligned in their vibrant colors. This visualization can be a powerful motivator to keep you on track and ultimately reach your goal.

    Rewarding Milestones

    As you progress with your temperature blanket, celebrate small milestones along the way. Completing each row or finishing a month’s worth of squares can be rewarding achievements that keep you motivated and reinforce your sense of accomplishment.

    Community and Support

    Consider sharing your project with others, whether through social media or local crafting groups. The support and encouragement of like-minded individuals can be a significant factor in ensuring you stay committed and finish your temperature blanket successfully.

    Visualize Completion

    Success in your temperature blanket project involves both the destination and the journey. Proper planning, consistency, adaptability, and the ability to find joy in the creative process are essential elements.

    By envisioning the final result, celebrating milestones, and seeking support from a crafting community, you can increase your likelihood of not only reaching your goal but also relishing every moment of making your temperature blanket.

    Author Bio

    Alison Heathcote is a passionate crochet enthusiast and dedicated business blogger. She combines her love for crafting and entrepreneurship to inspire and connect with others.

    With a knack for transforming yarn into beautiful creations and a flair for sharing valuable insights about running a successful crochet business, Alison embodies the perfect blend of creativity and practicality.

    Read more about Alison’s crochet journey.

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    Crochet Temperature Blanket – Week 1 Progress

    by | Crochet Blankets, Crochet Patterns

    by Alison Stapleton

    Temperature Blanket Details

    This year I am making a temperature blanket.

    Each day will be represented by a three-row granny square in the colour of the high temperature that day where I live in the city of Vancouver in Canada.

    I started on January 1, 2018, and make one square every day until December 31, 2018. That will be 365 crochet granny squares in all.

    Size

    I want my blanket to lay on my king sized bed and run in vertical rows for each set of 18 days.

    My design is to make this blanket 18 squares by 21 rows as that makes a squarer blanket than the usual 14 squares (or two weeks) by 21 rows which result in a long, narrow blanket more suited to a single or twin sized bed.

    I plan to make some extra white squares at the end to square off the blanket and on this can embroider the date for the year (2018). Here I may do MMXVIII just to be different.

    The Details Up To Day 9

    I know it says “week one” on the title of the post but it was actually Day 9 before  I got this published.

    For the first week, the temperatures in Vancouver remained between 5C and 6C for the highs.

    In a way, it was annoying to have to do the light blue for day after day and on into Day 9!

    But, I think it will soon get a little colder as we move into late January and February is typically the coldest month.

    My Progress

    I like that I can do one granny square just after dinner each night while watching TV and chatting with my family. It is very doable and once the day’s square is completed that is all I have to do. So, there is a feeling of satisfaction in completing the single motif.

    I do not feel the need to do more crocheting but I do have other projects on the hook that I will work at over the weekends.

    I will post again when I reach week 2 and share wyouyrou just how good the blanket is coming along.

    This is like a crochet along (CAL) and all the squares are the same.

    Temperature blanket Day 9

    Temperature Degree Colours

    I have the colours already decided listed here.

    Temperature blanket stash of colours.

    Zero and below white

    1C to 2C cream

    3C to 4C taupe

    5Cto 6C light blue

    7C to 8C teal

    9C to 10C green

    11C to 12C lemon

    13C to 14C yellow gold

    15C to 16C orange

    17C to 18C pink

    19C to 20C hot pink

    21C to 22C red

    23C to 24C magenta

    25C to 26C violet

    27C to 28C purple

    29C and above black

    I bought the yarn (which is Vanna’s Choice [4] weight yarn) on January the first at my local yarn store (LYS) in downtown Vancouver.

    I am using a 5.25mm crochet hook.

    Instagram @OldEnglishCreations

    Follow my daily progress and tag me with your temperature blanket images all year.

    The Crochet Wars

    by | Crochet Stories

    The war between knitters and crocheters continues unabated.

    If you are not a knitter or a crocheter you may not be aware of the subtle war that rages on in parlours and coffee shops across the land.

    I was chatting with my friend Nicole at Canadian Frost Apparel the other day about this very issue.

    Like most wars, there is a pointless tension between the knitters and the crocheters. No one knows when the animosity began, but it crept in and is seemingly here to stay.

    Let’s get straight to the point.

    Knitters

    Knitters use two needles with points. They may use a circular needle with points at both ends and a wire joining them, or, just to get tricky, they could use four double pointed needles for socks and tube-like things.

    They have many stitches on their needles at once and sometimes hundreds for a large piece.

    If they drop a stitch and it runs, it takes serious effort to retrieve it. Yes, knitted stitches will run away from their mistresses.

    Knitters often feel superior to crocheters as though to knit is to be better in some way. Crocheters never look down on knitters but they see them as their crafty cousins. Both use the same yarns and buy their supplies at the same store.

    You can have a “knitting bag” but who has heard of a “crocheting bag” I mean really.

    Crocheters

    Crocheters use one hook and yarn. The hook can have a thicker handle to aid tired hands and make the act of crocheting easier for extended periods of crafting. This feature on hooks makes crocheters calmer and relaxed.

    Crocheters have one stitch on the go at once.

    Crocheters can easily make a circle, square or any three-dimensional shape. In fact, crocheting has been used to demonstrate the Möbius strip-like in the March Möbius cowl, hyperbolic crochet and other spatial concepts.

    If you can knit and crochet be careful in which camp you pitch you tent.

    Myths surrounding Crocheters and Knitters

    • Knitters are better looking than crocheters. False
    • Crocheters only use one hand. False
    • All knitters can crochet but not all crocheters can knit. False
    • All crocheter are old ladies and that’s why they have “granny” squares. False
    • All knitters are young and hip. False

    Craft Groups

    I once joined a knitting and crochet meetup group. When I arrived the eight women there were all knitting. As I took out my crocheting there were gasps of horror from the assembly.

    Who was this woman? What was she doing here, and with a hook?

    One pleasant looking woman turned and said to me, “Oh, can’t you knit?”

    I replied, “Yes I can knit, but not tonight. I’m enjoying my crocheting time.” Gulp.

    I can knit and crochet. But, these days I prefer crocheting. It is easy and quick. I can do small squares everywhere I go and take them home to create a beautiful blanket or lapghan.

    Out and About

    I can crochet in the car or trapped in an aeroplane seat at 35000 feet. Here I have to use bamboo hooks as they get twitchy these days. But you can’t knit in a plane even with bamboo needles. It’s the point of the needle that annoys the authorities.

    In the end you have to do what you like. Don’t be knitting because your mother did. If you prefer crocheting then forsake knitting for a while.

    If you prefer the rhythm of knitting and can do it without looking then let that be your therapy.

    Do what you love and love what you do.  It will permeate into your items and the love will shine through your completed items whether you used a hook or needles. 💛

    Triangle Shawl Crochet Design

    by | Crochet Basics

    Shawl and Wrap Shapes

    Wraps are rectangles and shawls are triangles.

    This is the general consensus.

    You can get semi-circle wraps as well. But in this post I’m discussing the structure of crocheted triangles.

     

    Triangles

    A triangle has three sides and three corners.

    Typically there is one long side and two shorter sides both the same length. This is known as a scalene triangle and is the most popular shape for triangle shawls.

     

    Crochet Designs for Triangle Shawls

    If you are making a shawl in a solid piece as opposed to granny squares or other motive shapes then it will be made in one piece.

    The starting point sets the stage for the design and there are only a few ways to construct a triangle shawl in crochet.

    Any type of stripe or pattern stitch can be used but the way the shawl grows will be the same.

    Point Up – Horizontal

    This is a popular method where you work from the bottom point and go up in rows which increase each row. In this design you can stop or keep going once the size is suitable.

    An example of this design is the Lancashire Shawl. 

     

    Wide Top Down – Horizontal

    In this design the full-width of the top side is set, typically as a chain length, and cannot be adjusted later. Here you work rows down towards the point. Each row is shorter than the previous as you decrease at the start and end of each row.

    Here you work rows down towards the point. Each row is shorter than the previous as you decrease at the start and end of each row.

     

    Center Top to Sides – Both Diagonal

    In this design you start at the center top and make a triangle immediately. This can be seen in the half granny style. Each row adds to the sides and the point grows downwards.

     

    The center top to sides design can be adjusted when the size is reached or you can continue to add more rows.

    The Cumbria Shawl is a good example of this design.

     

    Left to Right – Vertical

    In this design you start at the left side and work vertical rows towards the right side. Which increases on one side only and the top side remains the same. At the

    At the point you start to decrease on the lower side again and the rows get shorter.

    The image below is the first half of the shawl as the rows grow vertically towards the point. When I’ve finished it I’ll get the completed image in here for you.

    Centre to Sides – Vertical

    Here the base chain is from the top center to the point. You work first the left side to the side point and then the right side to the side point. Care needs to be taken to get both sides the same.

    Each row is vertically from the center chain and reduces at the bottom whilst keeping the top edge straight.

    In this design the depth of the shawl is determined at the start but you can make the width wider if you do a shallower decrease.

     

    Your Choice

    All shawl designs have their pros and cons. Personally, I like the point up and the center top to side methods as the triangle shape it set from the start.

    It is a personal choice and the stitch pattern and the colour choices used will help determine the type of design you should choose.

    Alison

    Author Bio

    Alison Heathcote, a passionate crochet enthusiast and dedicated business blogger, combines her love for crafting and entrepreneurship to inspire and connect with others.

    With a knack for transforming yarn into beautiful creations and a flair for sharing valuable insights about running a successful crochet business, Alison embodies the perfect blend of creativity and practicality.

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    by Alison Stapleton

    Tech Essentials

    I’ve had an iPad for several years now and I’ve been frustrated with the big bulky and clunky hard cases sold in the Apple Store. They are not neat and they make the whole item seem bigger than it is.

    If the iPad designers made such a sleek and smooth piece of kit why would you want to hide it all in a nasty plastic flap thingy?

    You are probably like me and you need the information and connectivity the Ipad gives without the bulk of junky covers.

    I take my iPad with me most days and slip it into my bag. In fact these days I don’t buy a handbag or tote that will not fit my IPad.

    I had worked on several prototype designs made in crochet for my IPad cover but they all had the same problem that the sleek pad would just slip right out.

    This was not good.

    Carleton Nip and Tuck iPad Cover

    This new design is based on the simple pillow case method where the case is snug (nip) and then you ease the inner flap (tuck) over the end so the iPad will not slide out.

    Our Carleton iPad Crochet Cover has no external flaps or buttons to catch on other things.

     

    No matter who you are or how you crochet you will likely have an iPad. If you are a crocheter you can make this easy breezy iPad cover in less than three hours.

    And if you don’t have an iPad I bet your grandkids do.

     

    Materials

    Made from Vanna’s Choice by Lion Brand or any other 4 weight yarn.

    2 x 50g balls, one in black and one in pink.

    Size 5.25mm crochet hook or the hook required to match the gauge.

    Your label (optional)

    Yarn needle to sew in ends.

    Stitch marker.

    Gauge

    15 stitches and 12 rows to 4″ x 4″ (10cm x 10cm).

    Measurements

    Width 17cm, height 23cm.

    Note: When resting and by that I mean when the iPad is not in the cover, the cover is slightly smaller than the actual iPad.

    Pattern Notes

    This cover is worked in the round and after the first row the work spirals up and is not round by round. There is no seam.

    The fit is a snug fit to grip the iPad the cover will stretch a little as you insert the iPad this is normal.

    Colour choices

    The pattern here is for the black/pink version but I am also showing you the gold/cream colourway.  When you use colour in crochet it changes the feel of the item.

    The black/pink is vibrant and businesslike and the gold/cream is lighter and has more whimsey.

     

    Stitches used

    Chain – ch.

    Slip stitch – sl st.

    Single crochet – sc.

    Learn more about the five basic crochet stitches you need to know.

    Pattern

    Please note: This pattern will be free for just over a week and then be available as a PDF download for a nominal fee.

    Body

    Foundation chain: With black ch 24.

    Rnd 1: Ch 1 (as 1st st), 1 sc in every chain to end (24 sts), 2 sc into same st (as side corner), 1 sc into every st up the other side, 2 sc into same st, (52 sts). Do not join with sl st. Place a stitch marker into next st.

    Rnd 2: Immediately make the next st into the first st of rnd 1 and continue in a spiral from here.

    Work until completed 12 rnds and end at stitch marker side. Leave black (do not cut),

    Join pink, work 1 sl st into next 2 sts then continue in sc, complete one rnd, leave pink, pick up black and work 1 sc into each of the sl sts from the rnd below and then continue.

    From this point you will have two spirals (one pink and one black) with two thread in use. Continue until you have five pink and five black rnds completed. End at the stitch marker side. With black make 1 sl st into the next 2 sts. Cut black and fasten off.

    With pink continue and work every st and go over the 2 black sl sts with sc all the way round. Continue spiral in pink for twelve more rnds. End at stitch marker side. Turn.

    Inner flap

    Row 1: 1 ch (as 1st st), 1 sc into next 24 sts, turn (25 sts).

    Row 2-8: Repeat row 1. Fasten off.

    Finishing

    Turn item inside out. Fold flap down and neatly sew down both sides making sure not to go through to the front. Weave in ends. Turn right side out.

    Sew on your label at the right hand side bottom 1cm in from the corner (optional).

     

     


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    Crochet Bag Patterns

    by | Crochet Patterns

     by Alison Stapleton

    Crochet bags are fun and easy to make. There are many types of bags and most can be made in crochet. The beauty of these designs is that they usually can be made in a day or two.

    Start now and have a new bag each season (that’s four this year) or go ahead and craft yourself one for each month.

    Crochet bags do not last forever and depending on the yarns you use they can get worn, fluff or pill easily.

    Take care to choose natural fibres like cotton or wool  or select tough acrylics.

    Where to put your crochet bags when out and about

    Never chuck a crochet bag (or any bag for that matter) onto the floor.  Rather leave it hanging on the back of your chair

    In a restaurant or coffee shop

    Tuck your bag behind your back on the chair in a restaurant or coffee shop.

    Only place spectacular evening bags on the dining table.

    You can get a handy dandy portable handbag hook and dangle your bag stylishly from the table edge.

    On the bus, train or subway

    Always have your bag on your knee. Don’t leave it on the seat next to you (this attracts grab-and-runs). Not on the floor.

    If your commute is very dirty put you crochet bag into a see-though plastic bag for travelling in busy public places.

    In the cloakroom

    Hang it on the hook or knob behind the door. Never place your crochet bag on top of the cistern. Really?

    Never ever on the floor. Tuck it under your arm as you hover.

    At the basin, if you have to put it on the counter, place some paper towels down first.

    You never know what lurks in public places.

    Care for your crochet bag

    You have spent many hours making your crochet bag so you need to care for it to extend its longevity.

    When bags like this get dirty or stained it is hard to clean them so the best way is to protect them beforehand.

    Any bag you make and use says something about you. You want you crochet bags to be beautiful for a long time so take care and enjoy using your hand crafted bags.

    Bag patterns coming soon

    These bag patterns will be coming soon. I will add them as soon as I can.

    The patterns are free for a few days and then cost $2 for a PDF download. Check back often to pick up your free bag patterns.

    There are more free patterns here.

     

    Your Crochet Business in the New Year

    by | Crochet Business

    Your Crochet Business: New Year Reset

    If you have a micro crochet business the New Year is always a good time to plan your growth and direction for your venture.

    It is at the turning points each year, and for most of us that is the start in January, that you can assess what you hope to achieve in your crochet business for the next twelve months.

    You can also do a review of how things went during the past year before you start the plan for your new year in crochet.

     

    Questions for You

    Ask yourself the following questions and they will help you find your path in the New Year.

    These can be answered towards the end of December each year as your business naturally slows down after Christmas.

    Personally I do this in the week between Christmas and New Year. I take these seven days off from the main business of selling and interacting with my clients.

    I spend this time with my family and friends. But there are now hours in front of the TV and this is when I consider what I’m doing and where I’m going.

    With your crochet journal in hand consider the next 365 days of your crocheting life.

     

    In the New Year

    What will you do more of?

    What will you do less of?

    Who will you partner and collaborate with?

    Which yarns will you choose?

    Which items will you continue to make?

    Which items will you never make again?

    Do you need a better hook?

    Do you want to do more designing?

    Will you start a square-a-day blanket?

    Honesty

    Be honest. Write it down you can always go back and change things later.

    You can use your crochet journal to capture your thoughts and plans for each new Year.

    Author Bio

    Alison Heathcote, a passionate crochet enthusiast and dedicated business blogger, combines her love for crafting and entrepreneurship to inspire and connect with others.

    With a knack for transforming yarn into beautiful creations and a flair for sharing valuable insights about running a successful crochet business, Alison embodies the perfect blend of creativity and practicality.

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    Square-a-Day Crochet Blankets – 3 Options

    by | Crochet and Creativity, Crochet as Therapy, Crochet Patterns, Crochet Stories

    Square-a-Day Crochet Blankets

    A crocheted square-a-day blanket is easy, quick and it almost grows when you are not looking.

    You make one square each day of the year to reflect what was happening every day. At the end of twelve months you have a crochet record of how the year was for you.

    Skills required

    Because the effort you have to expend is only one square a day it can easily be done by beginners and experienced crocheters in a few moments each day.

    If you are a beginner this project will help you get better at a simple granny square that will stand you in good stead for all of your crocheting life.

    if you are an experienced crocheter you can add this little square to you repertoire of other crochet work that you have on the hook.

    The square-a-day blanket is a perfect complement to other crochet work in progress (WIP) which you may have. The square-a-day blanket is a big project and will take you all year to finish. This means that you can also do other crochet work in-between.

    Small, medium and large

    It is always a good idea to have more than one project on the go, a big one (like this blanket), a medium one like a hat or shawl and a small one like a bookmark.

    It is advisable to have large and small pieces and this blanket falls into the small pieces section because you can take it with you.

    Basic square

    The squares you do are a basic two-row granny square motif. The two rows can be one colour or in some cases (see below) with two different colours in each square.

    You can do one, two or three square-a-day blankets and we have three suggestions of blankets that you can make this year.

     

    3 Types of Square-a-Day Blankets

    Three types of daily square blankets that you can make and are explained here are:

    • A daily rising planet blanket (astrology related)
    • A daily high temperature blanket
    • A daily mood blanket (your feelings)

    Your life – your blanket

    Clearly you can think up other ways to do the square-a-day blanket depending on interests in your own life.

    If you are a gardener you can do one for planting, seedlings, flowers and fruits in your garden. The first rose bloom or the first apple on your trees. This is a good one as the seasons change and the garden lives a dies off over the year.

    If you live in a rainy area you could do a square-a-day rainfall blanket.

    Let the blanket reflect your life and the things that are important to you.

    1) Daily Rising Planet Crochet Blanket.

    For this blanket you will make one square for each day of the year.

    The colour for each square is chosen depending on which planet rises before the Sun every day for 365 days.

    Your blanket can be either 14 x 27 squares and this will make a long oblong blanket or it can be 18 x 21 squares which will make an almost square blanket.

    Either way there is no simple way to make a rectangle that is 365 days so there will always be a few squares over and the left over squares can be where you write, or embroider, the date and year for the blanket.

    Sunrise and the Pre-dawn Rising Planet

    The pre-dawn rising planet (in fact this is also known as the Oriental Plane)t is the planet that rises on the eastern horizon every morning before the Sun at dawn.

    This rising planet will change over the course of a year as the Sun and the planets move through the zodiac.

    Choosing the Colours

    You will use one colour for each planet. In astrology the Moon is considered a planet as well.

    Moon – white

    Mercury – taupe

    Venus – pink

    Mars – red

    jupiter – blue

    Saturn – grey

    Uranus – turquoise

    Neptune – mint green

    Pluto – maroon

    The Make-a-Square-a-Day method

    Because we do in fact know which planet will rise before the Sun this blanket can be started and you can push forward with the daily squares if you choose.

    But the best way to create this type of daily blanket is by making one-square-per-day which is the main idea.

    This is a big project and it can be done alongside other smaller or medium sized projects that you have on the hook.

    To make one small granny square and crochet it together will take you less than thirty minutes every morning or evening.

    2) Temperature Blankets

    There are two ways to do the squares in the temperature blankets. You can simply do the daily high temperatures or the high/low temperatures.

    Daily high temperatures

    In the high temperature blanket you take the daily high for the day where you live and crochet the square in the pre-determined colours you choose.

    So for example in Vancouver the highs are about 26C in summer and 4C in winter.

    So each degree on the thermometer can be one colour or you can designate one colour to cover two degrees because there are only so many colours of yarn in one make.

    Daily high/low temperature blanket

    The other option is the high/low temperature blanket.

    In this blanket you do a granny square with two rows where the first row is the low temperature and the second row is the high for the day. This makes a more colourful combination of squares in the blanket.

    The only thing is that you need a wider range of colours to cover the low temperatures as well.

    Example colours for a temperature blanket

    Zero and below white

    1C to 2C cream

    3C to 4C grey/taupe

    5Cto 6C light blue

    7C to 8C teal

    9C to 10C green

    11C to 12C lemon

    13C to 14C yellow gold

    15C to 16C orange

    17C to 18C pink

    19C to 20C hot pink

    21C to 22C red

    23C to 24C magenta

    25C to 26C violet

    27C to 28C purple

    29C and above black

    3) Daily Mood Blanket

    A mood blanket can be done by crocheting a square in the mood you wake up in each morning.

    We all like to think we are upbeat and happy each and every day and that is the goal of most people but reality is different. The only problem with this blanket is that you may be in a sad mood for many days and the blanket will bear witness to this.

    Also if you get halfway through the year and your cat dies you will be is a sad mood for weeks and this will show in the blanket.

    The mood blanket will reflect life as it really is. If you feel comfortable with making a mood blanket here are some suggested colours that you can use for each mood.

    Example colours for a mood blanket

    Anger – red

    Joy – orange

    Happiness – yellow

    Envious – green

    Sadness – blue

    Optimistic – indigo

    Inspired – violet

    Bored – white

    Tired – black

    You can choose the colours beforehand and hopefully you will have a happy and cheerful year.

     

    Author Bio

    Alison Heathcote, a passionate crochet enthusiast and dedicated business blogger, combines her love for crafting and entrepreneurship to inspire and connect with others.

    With a knack for transforming yarn into beautiful creations and a flair for sharing valuable insights about running a successful crochet business, Alison embodies the perfect blend of creativity and practicality.

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    Crochet Patterns

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    African Violet Flower Crochet Pattern

    by | Crochet Patterns

    African Violets

    The African Violet is a delightful indoor plant that blooms in a variety of violet and purple shades.

    The petals can be deep purple through to pale pink and white as well.

    The edges of the petals are different colours and add interest to the shape.

    The flowers are surrounded by dark green almost circular leaves. Each bloom has a small yellow center.

    The basic structure of yellow, violet and green leaves is an excellent shape that lends itself to crochet.

     

    African Violet Care

    African violets like to be in bright spots but not direct sunlight.

    Place them anywhere and even in the bathroom near a window.

    When the flowers die off pinch them out as others will grow in their place.

    They are forgiving little plants and will bloom several times a year.

     

    Propagation

    This dainty little plant can be easily grown from a leaf cutting just thrust into fresh soil and the new leaves will shoot up from the cut base of the original leaf.

     

    Watering

    The trick to watering an African violet is to use tepid water and never cold water.

    Never drip water onto the leaves, but instead carefully pour water onto the soil in the pot.

    Water once a week with about a half a cup of water.

    If the leaves get dusty you can brush them lightly with a dry paintbrush or a pastry brush.

    African Violet Hexagonal Motif

    Shapes can be powerful symbols in themselves.

    Many motifs in crochet are square and this one is a hexagon. Six sided shapes are found in nature where bees make honey.  

    The balance of six side makes the shape of a hexagon itself somewhat satisfying to see and agreeable to work with.

    Use this basic six sided motif to create many items.

    It can be used for a simple coaster or combined with others to make larger projects like scarves, shawls or blankets.

     

    Note:

    With the African violet flower hexagon motif I have made a small blanket to lay at the bottom of my bed.

    When I have a lie down in the afternoon (to read you know) I can slip my feet underneath the light blanket to keep my toes warm in case I nod off.

     

    African Violet Crochet Pattern Details

    You will need…

    You will need yarn in yellow, white and complimentary shades of violet, pinks and purples.

    You may use as few as two violet colours (one main and one complimentary) or as many colours as you like in a random fashion.

    Use one color for the edging and in this case I have chosen white.

    Note: My bedroom is mainly light and neutral and this is why I chose white as the edging for this blanket. You can select a colour that will compliment your bedroom colour scheme and use that as the edging colour on the last round.

    Stitches used in this pattern

    There are four basic crochet stitches used in the African violet flower motif and one special stitch, the spike stitch.

    Please note, we use the US crochet stitch terminology and not UK on all patterns on this site.

    • Chain (ch).
    • Single crochet (sc).
    • Double crochet (dc).
    • Half double crochet (hdc).
    • Spike stitch (sp st) see note below.

    Special stitches

    Spike stitch (sp st) insert your hook into the gap in the row below the current row and pull up a loop loosely (two loops on hook), yarn over pull through both loops.

     

    African Violet Crochet Pattern

    Center chain ring: With yellow. Ch 5, join with a sl st to form ring.

    Round 1: Ch 2 (as 1st dc), dc, ch 1, *dc 2 ch 1*, repeat from * to * [4] times, sl st to join at top of 1st st. Cut yarn.

    Round 2: Join violet with sl st into space.  Ch 2 (as 1st dc), ch 1, dc 2, * dc 2, ch1, dc 2 * repeat [4] times. Join with sl st.

    Round 3: Sl st into next 2 sts (to be in space), Ch 2 (as 1st dc), dc 6 into space, * in next space dc 7 *, repeat from * to * [4] times, join with sl st. Fasten off.

    Round 4: Join contrast colour. Sl st to join into the 1st st on the left of a petal. Sc6 until you get to the gap between two petals. * Sp st, sc 7 * repeat from * to * [4] times. Join with sl st. Fasten off.

    Round 5: Join white. Hdc1 in every stitch until you get to the middle st of the 7 sts in the petal, in this middle st (hdc 1, ch 1, hdc 1). Continue until end making all 6 points at the top of the petals. Join with sl st. Fasten off.

     

    Finishing

    Sew in all ends by weaving up the edge of the motif.

    Layout the motifs is an appealing way if you have use random colours. Take your time with the colour placement.

    Pick up two motifs and with right sides facing sew them together.

    “Outer loops only” sew-up method

    Sew with white and a tapestry sewing needle through the outer loops only of the top row of stitches. Double stitch at the corners to keep them sharp.

    This method leaves an attractive edge to each motif when laid flat.

    Do not sew through both loops.

    Note: Joining the hexagons by sewing them results in a firmer, smoother and less bulky seam than crocheting them together does.

    Sewing may seam seem to take longer but it makes for a far superior finish.

    Sewn crochet blankets will last better in the wash and after ten years they will still be joined.

    I still own an acrylic crocheted blanket that I made in 1990. I use it every day and wash twice a month and the seams are only now starting to fray.

    Author Bio

    Alison Heathcote, a passionate crochet enthusiast and dedicated business blogger, combines her love for crafting and entrepreneurship to inspire and connect with others.

    With a knack for transforming yarn into beautiful creations and a flair for sharing valuable insights about running a successful crochet business, Alison embodies the perfect blend of creativity and practicality.

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    Your Year in Crochet – A Review

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