Crochet Cowl With Two Strands Of Yarn

I really enjoy crocheting and over the years have never used patterns, but have created my own designs by combining simple stitches. Recently I have found myself looking at patterns and thinking of new projects to try. I have been learning new stitches and I'm learning more about this beautiful craft.

I had never used two strands of yarn together on a project before and I have seen some great projects that inspired me to try to do so. I usually prefer a lightweight piece, but wanted something on the more chunky side. I therefore decided to make a cowl (also a first) using two strands. I fell in love with the Aqua colour of the" Bernet Satin" yarn (Colour: 04201). It is a medium, 100% acrylic yarn that was easy to work with and feels super soft.

Here are some images from my project.

I was inspired by this tutorial at "Aesthetic Nest" on how to make a crochet cowl. However, my finished cowl is larger and I did not really follow the instructions very well and ended-up doing my own thing. I love the size of the one I made, because it gives great versatility for wearing in a number of ways. I think the next cowl I make, will be even larger so that it can be worn over the head, which will be wonderful for next winter. However my thoughts are on spring and the cool evenings off the lake.

My finished cowl measures 11" high and 36" around and I used a USK10.5/6.50 mm crochet hook. I crocheted in the round and added a cord with a flower on one end and a leaf on the other. The cord is piped through and brings the cowl in nicely at the neck. However, I see myself wearing my new spring cowl more often as shown in option #2.

Book Review: Recycling Things to Make and Do

On today's Crafted Spaces Radio I talked about "Eco Crafting." I have wanted to start a segment on this topic for some time now and will like to add more to this topic as the year progresses. There are lots of blogs and other sites that are dedicated to this topic, as well as a wealth of other online resources. I mentioned this book; "Recycling things to make and do," because it is a great resource for working with kids on wonderful craft projects.

The large, bright full colour pages present the projects in easy to follow steps and each project uses materials from around your home as well as items that you may have from left-over sewing and craft projects. The projects are equally great for boys or girls and I think will appeal to a wide age group. Younger kids can make projects that allow them to explore paint and texture, while older kids can make projects like gift bags and tags that are perfect for gift giving. There are a number of other books in the series that look at "things to make and do."

I was asked by my nine-year-old son, "What interesting things did you do as a kid, when you were my age mommy?" His question brought back memories of drawing and working on countless craft projects. I remember spending hours with my craft books and trying lots of new craft projects. I would spend hours anticipating the final outcome. My favourite craft book was part of an encyclopedia set my mother had purchased for me. For years I continued to gain enjoyment from the projects I learnt and continue to use many of the techniques I learnt so many years ago.

My family and I have been having fun with our "Family Art Night" and my son's drawings have been amazing. Watching him expressing himself through art has been an amazing experience. Needless to say, I was very happy to find this book. Let me know what you think and perhaps share a favourite craft book from your library.

Sewing Seams

Learning to sew can be exciting, but it can also be an intimidating process for some people. Often my beginner sewing students will arrive for their fist session, convinced that it will take them forever to catch on. They subsequently leave pleasantly surprised at how well they have caught on, and in awe of the great projects they have created.

One of the first lessons I teach in the "Beginner Sewing" course is how to make seams. The basic seam and flat-filled seam are two of the seams that are taught. I therefore wanted to share on the blog, how to sew these two seams. Before you get started with your project you will want to make sure you have the proper thread and needle for your material. Depending on your fabric, for example 100% cotton, you may also want to pre-shrink your fabric. Confirm the seam allowance on the pattern you are using for your project. Check your machine settings to make sure the stitch, length, width and tension will work well for your material and project.

Basic Seam
The basic seam is the most used seam for a majority of the projects you will sew. The width of your seam will vary depending on the project you are working on; however, 5/8" seam allowance is a common seam allowance for commercial patterns.

Step 1:  Place your fabric together with the right sides facing each other. Pin your pieces together to hold in place. Depending on the type of fabric you are using you may want to hand-bast using a running stitch. Align the edge of your fabric with the line on your throat plate, for the desired seam width.

Step 2:  Lower your presser foot and lower your needle into the fabric. Backstitch by using your reverse stitching mechanism at the beginning and end of your seam to avoid the thread from undoing on the ends. This will eliminate the need to tie thread ends.

Step 3:  Guide your fabric as you stitch, using the desired line on your throat plate as a guide. If you do not have lines or your lines do not have numbers, use tape or another marking to assist in identifying the correct line for your stitch. You will need to measure from the point of your needle to the desired width.

Step 4:  Complete by opening your seam and pressing in place.

Once your seam is complete, there are many ways to finish the edges, including using pinking shears, zig zag stitch, overcast stitch, binding or by using a serger. You would finish your seam edges based on the type of fabric you are using and its' nature to fray.

Flat-Filled Seam
I like this seam on casual items and find it to be a great decorative touch on some pieces. Children's clothing, sporty items and casual handbags are some of the ways I use this method. You can use a contrasting colour thread to add a bit of detailing if you like.

Step 1:  Prepare your seam the same as you did your basic seam; however, place the wrong side of the fabric together, and stitch on the right side of the fabric.

Step 2:  Cut away one side of your seam. The amount you cut will depend on the width of your seam. I usually cut a minimum of half the given width.

Step 3:  Fold over the remaining side of the seam and iron over the cut side.

Step 4:  Fold under the end of the fabric and press your seam in the direction of your fold.

Step 5:  Stitch along the outer edge of the fabric. It is important to take your time while doing this, given that it is visible on the outside of your project.

Step 6:  Guide fabric along while stitching, staying close to the edge.

Step 7:  Iron finished seam in place.

With the flat-filled seam, I have found that it looks best if your stitch is straight, otherwise you notice it and it will take away from your project. I suggest practicing on ends of fabric or using a fabric guide to help keep your lines straight. I also suggest playing with top stitch thread or contrasting colour thread to add some detailing. I have also used a decorative stitch along the edge to add a decorative touch.

Happy stitching!

*Thanks to my mother Dr. Cheryl Cottle for assisting with some of the photography for this post :-)