Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Granny Rose and Granny Square Bag | How to Guidelines

 
The Granny Rose / Granny Square bag for Bug is done!

I made eight "Granny Rose 2" squares and 16 regular granny squares. 
I accidentally made two too many roses so I whip-stitched those together
leaving a small opening, and attached it to an i-cord for a little mini purse.

"The Granny Rose 2" pattern is available for free on my YouTube channel.
Here's the first video for that rose:
or the pattern for the Rose Square is available for purchase by clicking on the following 
Apple Blossom Dreams Shops:
 
Lined the inside (and the strap) with fabric from the fabric stash. 
Stitched it in with a sewing machine! 
The sewing machine is something I generally avoid, but this was pretty slick. 
Perhaps the sewing machine and I will become friends again...

I used 100% acrylic DK yarn in cream, beige, grey, 
and Lion Brand Jeans yarn in "Classic" and "Top Stitch" for this project.

I have added "write a pattern for the whole thing" to my to-do list...

Stay tuned for a lot more love and a lot of

coming your way!

Warmly, 
Astri Elisabeth


Monday, January 22, 2024

Heart Baubles and Sachets | Crochet Patterns | For Holidays

How about combining the Granny Heart Bauble with 
the Love Nugget Sachets together on a wreath?

Baubles and wreaths...not just for Christmas anymore...

I used a heart-shaped dollar store wire wreath form, rooted around in the Christmas storage box, 
procured a few heart-shaped ornaments from Michaels, 
and included the crocheted baubles and hearts. 

It has been hung on the back of the door instead of the front of the door, 
this way I can see it all day long 
(and there might be another wreath that's heart-shaped on the front of the door already).
Yes, yes I know... the coffee maker and the electrical plugs in the pic, 
but this is real life, man! 

The pattern for the "Granny Heart Bauble" can be found by clicking on the following 
Apple Blossom Dreams Shops:

The pattern includes an exclusive video that also shows you how to make the
"Love Nugget Sachets!" 

The pattern for the Love Nugget Sachets can be found by clicking on the following 
Apple Blossom Dreams Shops:

These baubles and sachets were made with*Scheepjes Catona 
A cotton fingering (Super Fine #1) weight yarn.
*Scheepjes Catona is available in a color pack of little cuties (109 of them!)
 from *Amazon by clicking here.
If you are in the US, you will receive your yarn quickly.


Have a happy day, thank you for your interest and

Warmly,

Astri

*Apple Blossom Dreams may receive a small commission
 on purchases made via these Amazon affiliate links, 
however, it is at no additional cost to you.

Thursday, January 18, 2024

Thomas Blanket | Crochet Pattern | Release - Published - Listed

Announcing the 
Thomas Crochet Pattern!!!
The pattern can be found by clicking on the following 
Apple Blossom Dreams Shops:




Here's one made from the yarn stash with
four different Main colors with several contrasting colors in warm tones.
I call it the "Rumpus Room" version
after the carpet in "Rumpus Room" in the my childhood home.

Yarn:
Any of the following three yarns works beautifully:
Yarnsmiths Create DK
Stylecraft Special DK
Scheepjes Colour Crafter
and are all listed in the pattern.

The yarn pack with Yarnsmiths Create DK
 for the Thomas Blanket is available at Wool Warehouse by clicking here.

The pattern listing reads like this:
Wrap yourself or a loved one in style with our Thomas Blanket Pattern! This easy-to-follow pattern is perfect for both beginners and seasoned crocheters, allowing you to create a timeless and snuggly blanket that will be cherished for years to come. Perfect for Gifting. Create personalized blankets for family and friends. Handmade blankets are heartwarming gifts for birthdays, weddings, or just to show someone you care. Begin your cozy crochet journey today with the Thomas Blanket Pattern. Download now and start crocheting your way to warmth and relaxation!

Instant Download:
Upon purchase, you will receive a link to download the PDF pattern instantly. Print it out or keep it on your digital device for easy access. With instant download, you can start crocheting right away! Simply download the pattern and start working on this charming blanket today.

Pattern Details:
• Skill Level: Body of Blanket = Easy
• Border = Intermediate
With basic crochet stitches and simple techniques, although the pattern body of the pattern is listed as "easy" and the border as "intermediate," it is perfect for crocheters of all skill levels.
• Language: English (US terms)
• Instant Download: Yes
• Format: PDF

Features:
• Versatile Design: This pattern provides endless possibilities for size and color customization. Choose your favorite colors and make it uniquely yours. Additionally, this pattern is great for busting that yarn stash!
• Step-by-Step Instructions: Include 15 pages of detailed guidance with clear, high-quality images and exclusive videos to ensure your success, even if you're new to crochet. A 3-page abbreviated version is included also. It is perfect for the experienced crocheter and convenient for printing.
• Quick and Enjoyable: The repetitive yet engaging stitch pattern makes for a relaxing and satisfying project.

Materials Needed:
• 11 skeins of 100 gm DK weight (light #3) yarn (approx. 3500 yards)
• Crochet hook size: 7 – 7.5 aka “G” (4 – 4.50 mm) and 8 aka “H” (5.00 mm)
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends
• Stitch markers if desired
• Scissors

Dimensions:
The finished blanket measures approximately 44" x 58" (112 cm x 148 cm) making it perfect for snuggling on the couch, keeping warm on chilly nights, or as a thoughtful handmade gift.

Stay tuned for a lot more love and a lot of

coming your way!

Warmly, 
Astri Elisabeth

Monday, January 15, 2024

Thomas Blanket | Crochet Pattern | More Tests!

Here are a couple of additional tests of the
Thomas Blanket Crochet Pattern,
and they are fabulous!
This one by the increible Katrina and "Perdie" 
of @summerkat01
How perdie is Perdie huh?  Oh, be still my puppy-loving heart...
Katrina chose the Cityscapes Scarf pattern as her gift for testing.

This one is by the lovely Seemantini:
@cre8ive_diaries
Front                               and                                  Back
Seemantini chose the Rose Gold Afghan pattern as her gift for testing.

I have two different types of testers; 1)  Technical Editors and 2) "Maker" Testers. 
The technical editor generally does not crochet the project, 
but the "Maker" may also check for technical edits. 
They are both beyond valuable! 
You've probably heard the real estate phrase "location, location location" 
but in pattern writing it is "testing, testing, testing." It's mega important!

This testing go-around with the Thomas blanket has attracted
the most incredible group of both types of testers.

I also found the most amazing crochet pattern tech editor @krosha_prapancha !
If you need a Crochet Pattern Tech Editor I highly recommend @krosha_prapancha


Stay tuned for pattern release on January 18th, 2024.


Thanks for stopping by and I hope this brings you some 

Warmly,

Astri Elisabeth

Friday, January 12, 2024

Love Nugget Sachets | Crochet Pattern | Released - Published - Listed

Introducing the
Love Nugget Sachets
Crochet Pattern!!!


The pattern can be found by clicking on the following 
Apple Blossom Dreams Shops:

 
The listing reads like this:

Crochet these adorable heart-shaped sachets in your favorite colors
 and fill them with your preferred scents for a personalized touch
 to your home or as thoughtful gifts.

These delightful nuggets of love add a touch of whimsy to drawers, closets, or gifts
 and are perfect for infusing surroundings with cozy and inviting fragrances.

Step-by-Step Instructions: 6 pages of detailed guidance with clear, high-quality images
 to ensure success, even for those new to crochet. 
The pattern includes an abbreviated version for printing and for
 the more experienced crocheter. 
Additionally, the pattern includes a link to an exclusive step-by-step video
 that will take you through all the steps to create these scented sachets.

Make them in your favorite colors to suit any occasion
 - a perfect, Valentine's Day gift, or as a heartfelt gift embellishment.

Yarn: *Scheepjes Catona 
A cotton fingering (Super Fine #1) weight yarn.
One 10 g cutie will make 4 nuggets.

Additional Supplies Needed: Cotton balls, perfume/cologne/scented oils/potpourri,
 scissors, stitch marker, yarn needle.

Put a smile on a loved one's face with this thoughtful handmade gift
 that you can customize to their style or your style by changing the colors and or scents.


*Scheepjes Catona is available in a color pack of little cuties (109 of them!)
 from *Amazon by clicking here.
If you are in the US, you will receive your yarn quickly.


Stay tuned for a lot more love and a lot of

*Apple Blossom Dreams may receive a small commission
 on purchases made via these Amazon affiliate links, 
however, it is at no additional cost to you.

Thursday, January 11, 2024

Thomas Blanket | Crochet Pattern | Tests

The Thomas Blanket Crochet Pattern tests are coming in:
Here's a test by the smart and lovely Erin of @itseleverse
And another Thomas Afghan "Maker" test by the fabulous, funny, 
and always helpful @misspreciouskighton

The Thomas Afghan "Maker" tests are coming in and they are fabulous!

I have two different types of testers; 1)  Technical Editors and 2) "Maker" Testers. 
The technical editor generally does not crochet the project, 
but the "Maker" may also check for technical edits. 
They are both beyond valuable! 
You've probably heard the real estate phrase "location, location location" 
but in pattern writing it is "testing, testing, testing." It's mega important!

This testing go-around with the Thomas blanket has attracted
the most incredible group of both types of testers.
I found the most amazing crochet pattern tech editor @krosha_prapancha !
I suppose she found me as much as I found her, and for that, I am forever grateful. The tech edits are in and I am blown away!
Goodness gracious, she sees everything... every little inconsistency, every little error.
She makes me appear as though I know what I am doing.
I am flabbergasted! (that's a good thing right?) Additionally, she is: Professional Kind Knowledgeable Responsive I'm hoping she will be available for my future patterns.
In fact, the association has motivated me to get back to finishing these half-finished patterns If you need a Crochet Pattern Tech Editor I highly recommend @krosha_prapancha

Stay tuned for more test results and a pattern release on January 18th, 2024.

P.S. Here are a few (but not all) of my tests:


The pattern is currently still out to additional testers and will be released on January 18th!

Thanks for stopping by and I hope this brings you some 

Warmly,

Astri Elisabeth