Crochet "Chat"

[Kassaundra]

Oh, and I couldn't make it solid, like solid single crochet b/c the yarn I'm working with (and can't get more of, at least don't think I can b/c I got is several, many actually years ago) and I don't have enough skeins to make it a solid field.

 

[rancher hicks]

I am fully aware it is an optical illusion, that all squares are the same size, but getting a stitch that is exactly the same size tall as wide, plus divisible by 3, plus can maintain a straight line. I figured several that ALMOST fit all the criteria but would be wonky or not have an easy smooth color change or not make a perfect square, or, or, or..... Oh an I forgot needs to be about 45 inches square total for the project I am working on.

I thought you were only partially aware.

that's why I suggested a single crochet. If this is to be a wall hanging or framed you could use a sock yarn or baby yarn.

When using two colors simply carry the unused color in the back. You should get a smooth transition shouldn't you? Like when knitting a sock. Each square would be 3" right?

 

[Kassaundra]

Our group of crocheters participating in the swaps keeps dwindling. I think there are a few reasons for this, the cost of postage being one, the commitment to multiple squares, trying to find something to do w/ the squares (not everyone crochets for afghans) and a few others.

I have been thinking about this and trying to come up w/ some ideas for changes for future swaps. I think I've come up w/ some new and hopefully exciting changes that will address these problems and at the same time include more of our yarn / thread friends.

I will post more about this after this swap is finished and shoot for our first new swap style for after the first of the year.

 

[sunflower4you]

Can't wait until the first of the year.

 

[christine9]

Our group of crocheters participating in the swaps keeps dwindling.  I think there are a few reasons for this, the cost of postage being one, the commitment to multiple squares, trying to find something to do w/ the squares (not everyone crochets for afghans) and a few others.

I have been thinking about this and trying to come up w/ some ideas for changes for future swaps.  I think I've come up w/ some new and hopefully exciting changes that will address these problems and at the same time include more of our yarn / thread friends.

I will post more about this after this swap is finished and shoot for our first new swap style for after the first of the year.

I really like the idea of a swap. I've never done one through the mail before. But I do have a few reservations and I think they are worth mentioning if trying to get more people involved.
I would be more likely to get in on a swap if it was more themed somehow. I'd like to think I have some chance of liking colors that others would choose and vice versa of course. I'd feel terrible if my portion was the one everybody hated. Also, I have a really hard time finding yarn here. Basically if Walmart or Michael's don't carry it, then I can't have it. It'd be difficult for me to match other brands. I'm interested to see what kind of ideas you have. This could be fun!!

 

[Kassaundra]

I really like the idea of a swap. I've never done one through the mail before. But I do have a few reservations and I think they are worth mentioning if trying to get more people involved.
I would be more likely to get in on a swap if it was more themed somehow. I'd like to think I have some chance of liking colors that others would choose and vice versa of course. I'd feel terrible if my portion was the one everybody hated. Also, I have a really hard time finding yarn here. Basically if Walmart or Michael's don't carry it, then I can't have it. It'd be difficult for me to match other brands. I'm interested to see what kind of ideas you have. This could be fun!!

Yes we have run into issues when specifying a specific brand even making it as universal as possible someone always seems to have some difficulty getting it. Some have even had to order online to get the right brand. Trying to balance enough "rules" (color / pattern / and such) w/ enough freedom so all skill levels can participate, as well as everyone having access to supplies, and broad enough interest that many people want to participate, can sometimes be difficult.

But all that being said, I have to say how much I have enjoyed participating in the swaps, both crocheted and quilting. It has stretched my skill level wanting to do my best for others, and seeing how others combine colors or patterns in a way that I might never have tried.

 

[acemario]

I have participated in two swaps snd really like the idea of having a online guild all working on the same project. Funny that kassaundra mentioned her thinking of how to make it better! I have been brainstorming too! Here is one of my ideas...

Everyone crochet one square a month and send it to one person. Rhat one person suddenly has enough squares to make a blanket! In one day! The next month is a new person... Etc. this would probably be best if 12 dedicated people were willing. Maybe we could make it 2 squares.

This way it is not overwhelming and everyone gets their own community blanket. Maybe the person who is receiving the blanket could choose the square!

 

[rancher hicks]

I really like the idea of a swap. I've never done one through the mail before. But I do have a few reservations and I think they are worth mentioning if trying to get more people involved.
I would be more likely to get in on a swap if it was more themed somehow. I'd like to think I have some chance of liking colors that others would choose and vice versa of course. I'd feel terrible if my portion was the one everybody hated. Also, I have a really hard time finding yarn here. Basically if Walmart or Michael's don't carry it, then I can't have it. It'd be difficult for me to match other brands. I'm interested to see what kind of ideas you have. This could be fun!!

The point of the swap is the fun of connecting with others. Our swaps have been themed but there is always the chance of not liking someone elses choice in color/colors. I'd just use them as coasters for planters or whatever. My granddaughter was playing with the small squares in this swap. Putting them on everyones head for a hat.

I finally put them where she couldn't see them.

I have both Walmart and Michaels here. Michaels carries Vanna's Choice which I like and there are others. We really only have so many choices. JoAnnes, Michaels, AC Moore and Walmart are it I think. Certainly we can come to a consensus with these choices in stores.

We generally use a worsted four ply yarn.

Keep in mind too that this presents an opportunity for newbies to hone their skills. I'd certainly take any questionable squares. For me it's about you and your having fun being a part of something neat.

Yes we have run into issues when specifying a specific brand even making it as universal as possible someone always seems to have some difficulty getting it. Some have even had to order online to get the right brand. Trying to balance enough "rules" (color / pattern / and such) w/ enough freedom so all skill levels can participate, as well as everyone having access to supplies, and broad enough interest that many people want to participate, can sometimes be difficult.

But all that being said, I have to say how much I have enjoyed participating in the swaps, both crocheted and quilting. It has stretched my skill level wanting to do my best for others, and seeing how others combine colors or patterns in a way that I might never have tried.

Well now IMHO it is a granny square swap and I've made and make plenty of grannies with different brands of yarn. As long as it's "worsted, four ply it should be fine. Too I plan to do an extra round on each square in a solid color. Most grannies were done with a black border, which I find pleasing and nostalgic.

Too not everyones stitches are consistently the same. I'm concerned about this circle swap as I don't care for the large circles and the size of my stitches. I do get the 12" but just don't like the way they're turning out. Well really it's just the last to rows. I just can't seem to get the stitches the way I'd prefer.

I have participated in two swaps snd really like the idea of having a online guild all working on the same project. Funny that kassaundra mentioned her thinking of how to make it better! I have been brainstorming too! Here is one of my ideas...

Everyone crochet one square a month and send it to one person. Rhat one person suddenly has enough squares to make a blanket! In one day! The next month is a new person... Etc. this would probably be best if 12 dedicated people were willing. Maybe we could make it 2 squares.

This way it is not overwhelming and everyone gets their own community blanket. Maybe the person who is receiving the blanket could choose the square!

Most of the swaps I've participated in are by size square or themed. Flowers, Winter colors, Fall colors etc. etc.

If each person crocheted " 1" square in a month that would amount to about 12 squares at best. Hardly enough for a blanket. Too what would happen if someone had to drop out? DW got diagnosed with B. Cancer and it's been hard. Still I used the time sitting in the doctors office or during her 4 hr Chemo treatments. And at my age I might be dead when my turn comes. Course I reckon they could bury me with the squares.

Then too where the wife says I'm going I don't think I'll need to keep warm.

She's such a kidder.

Seems to me making one square a day would yield enough for most swaps. Most squares are 6" or 12" The last swap I participated in all the 12" squares were solid color and I did them while on vacation to Ala seeing family. Came back with a suitcase full of yarn.

If anyone wants to "host" a swap they certainly can. We haven't had the same host/hostess every time. I even hosted once. I'm pretty flexible about these things cuz it's about YOU. Having and taking the time to meet and make new friends perhaps. You may not become friends with everyone but perhaps a couple of folks in other states.

Finally I'll leave you with this. My DD wants me to make her an afghan. She showed me a Winter color themed swap square and said "Like this". It's not one of mine, gray white and black. So you just never know. If you don't like a square donate them at AC Moore that collects squares to make blankets for the VA.

Peace,

Rancher , yes I'm a guy, Hicks.

BTW how much more time have I got? For this swap. Went to the docs yesterday finally. He's got me on antibiotics. Still haven't gotten my hearing back yet though.

 

[christine9]

ok ok, I'm convinced. Sign me up!

 

[acemario]

I have participated in two swaps snd really like the idea of having a online guild all working on the same project. Funny that kassaundra mentioned her thinking of how to make it better! I have been brainstorming too! Here is one of my ideas...

Everyone crochet one square a month and send it to one person. Rhat one person suddenly has enough squares to make a blanket! In one day! The next month is a new person... Etc. this would probably be best if 12 dedicated people were willing. Maybe we could make it 2 squares.

This way it is not overwhelming and everyone gets their own community blanket. Maybe the person who is receiving the blanket could choose the square!

Quote: Yeah, as I was typing that last night, I noticed that 12 squares wasn't enough, thus I said, "Maybe we could make it 2 squares." haha. I believe 24 12" squares would be sufficient for a nice afghan.
I also stated that we would need 12 dedicated individuals. Two squares a month is definitely doable. The details could be discussed if enough people were interested.

I would love to receive a pattern/color theme from someone and send them two squares. Then, I would love to see the final project with everyone elses squares. AND! I would love to assign out a theme one month and receive two squares from people. Having an instant afghan would be awesome! Especially if I only had to make 2 squares of it!

This is a more appealing group crochet than crocheting an entire blanket for each swap. While I enjoy the whole process, two big afghans a year is a little too much for me... but I just cant say no because I enjoy the social aspect.

eta: from ace... the other guy...