Easy Knit Scarf

short video on knitting an easy garter stitch scarf.   This video links back to the Beginner's Knit Scarf posted earlier in the May 2014 posts on this blog.

Thank you for stopping by ... 

The HookDude

Crochet Prayer Shawls

Prayer shawls provide comfort, warmth and spiritual healing to the recipient.  They are always given to someone who is going or has gone through some rough times, be it physical, emotional or spiritual.    

For more information on prayer shawls go to this link

I had been working diligently on these prayer shawls last year and then put them aside for some time.   Last month, I decided that it was time to put the hook back to good use and finished them.    I like these because they are very warm but not bulky.   This particular stitch gives the shawl a very nice texture.  As you can tell from the photos, there's some open work on the stitches, but not so much as to make it a lacy shawl.

The pattern used to make these shawls is a very simple one and one which I used to make a baby blanket and an afghan.   I like this pattern because it uses the V-stitch (dc, dc) and it just keeps on repeating itself.   No complicated rows to memorize ... after you set up your foundation chain and first row ... it just repeats itself.     You can also use this same stitch to make a nice warm scarf.

The finished shawls in these photos measure 18" X 64"

Skill level:  easy-intermediate

abbreviations:

dc - double crochet

ch - chain

st(s) - stitch(es)

2dc grp - 2 double crochet group

rep - repeat

*  * - when indicated in the instructions, repeat the action given between * and *

gauge:  6 v-stitches = 4in.

            9rows =  4in.

however, for this project, I don't think gauge would be that important.

hook size = 5.5 mm, I #9  or size needed to obtain gauge

materials = worsted weight yarn #4 (remember to use the recommended hook size for the yarn that you will be using)

for each shawl, I used 2 skeins of Red Heart Super Saver medium weight

chain loosely 50 chains

Row 1 - 2dc in 4th ch. from hook * skip 1 ch, 2dc in next ch(this will create the V-stitch or 2dc group)*, rep from * to last 2 ch., skip 1 ch, 1dc in last ch,  ch 3 & turn.

Row 2 - * 2dc in center of 2dc grp*, rep from * to end of row, 1dc in the 1st ch (from your foundation chain below), ch3 & turn.

Row 3 - * 2dc in center of 2dc grp*, rep from * to end of row, 1dc in 3rd ch of turning chain, ch3 & turn.

Repeat Rows 2 & 3 to the desired length.  Fasten off and weave in ends.

Optional:  Add Fringe if desired on ends of shawl.

Note:  there are several variations of V-stitch, including putting 1 chain between the 2 DC's, you can modify this pattern according to your preference.   Have fun making the shawl !!

As always, I thank you for stopping by ... 

The HookDude

Why I Crochet and Knit

Four years ago, I didn't have an inkling of what crochet and knitting meant.   The only thing that I remember is that many years ago, my ex-wife used to weave or tie twine for hanging plants in the patio.    Honestly, I don't know what that was called, but it seems to have been popular in the 70's and 80's.   It could have been something called macramé.    

Anyway, as it so happened, a retired couple who lived down the street from me talked to me about some volunteer work that they were involved in at a local charity.    She crocheted hats and he crocheted scarves for the homeless shelter.
Now, four years later, that couple has moved from the city, and I have learned how to crochet and how to knit.   I find that I equally enjoy both activities, however, I have found that crocheting is more forgiving if you make a mistake. 

About 3 years ago, I began making scarves and hats for local charities as well as overseas organizations.   One positive aspect of this is that I never have to work to meet deadlines.  I make the scarves & hats whenever I have the time, and I never feel pressured.   It also helps me relax and wind down.    It's also my mental therapy.

See what the Craft Yarn Council (CYC) says about it as being therapeutic

It's a hobby that I enjoy tremendously, and the best part of it is that I know that the scarves and hats which I donate will keep persons warm during the cold winter months.   

Thanks for stopping by ... 

The HookDude