May 2020 – Katie's Blog

Arts and Crafts, Beginner Patterns, Crochet

Crafty Sassy – Single Crochet Square (Beginner)

Posted on May 26, 2020May 26, 2020 by Katie Night

Hey Dearies! Here is another pattern that is perfect for beginners! Single crochet is one of the most basic stitches that is commonly used in most, if not all patterns, especially for beginners.

What I like most about the single crochet is that is it very simple and easy to do, although I don’t really recommend using the stitch to create a blanket with unless you are using double strands.

We are only working with one strand, so don’t get too nervous!

Single crochet is the stitch that makes your work look ‘tighter’ just like the half double crochet, but we will talk about that one later!

So, what do you need to make the single crochet square? The answer is the same for the solid granny square and regular granny square, any yarn or hook size you want to use or need to use for a project or just to practice it with different yarn sizes and hook sizes.

Let’s start!

What I used:

5.0 mm
- For most beginner projects, a 5.0 mm hook is the ‘normal’ hook size, especially when it comes to crocheting for the first time!
Medium Size yarn
- This is the normal size yarn that you will use for most projects.
- Today, I am using Mainstays Basic Yarn in the color Soft Gray Heather
Sewing needle
- You’ll always need this, there is no if and or buts about it, you need to sew in your ends!

Note: For single crochet, you can chain however long you would like to like, but once you have reached your desired length, chain 1 extra, this extra chain isn’t going to be crocheted in.

Make a slip knot and chain 26. (As I said before, you can chain whatever size you want, but make sure to have 1 extra chain. Example: I want 25 stitches, but I added an extra chain, making it 26 chains I do.)

Row 1: Single crochet into the second chain from your hook. (Not counting what is already around your hook.) Single crochet in the next stitches across. (25)

Row 2: Chain 1. Single crochet in the next stitch and across. (25)

Repeat Row 2 until you reach your desired length or however long you want to practice it.

I kept going till about 30 rows, you can stop whenever, but once you are done, it makes a great washcloth, if you are using cotton. The more rows you do, it’s more practice for you!

Now, if you noticed, it will tend to roll or fold on you, when you try to flatten it out, with is normal. Most people will block them, which is when you get your project wet and peg it to a block for it to dry, and they usually don’t fold after that!

But this project is so simple and fun to do, that you could easily make a bunch of these squares into a blanket or make a bunch of them into washcloths, towels, and even blankets! The possibilities are endless!

Arts and Crafts, Crochet, Top Projects for Crochet/Knitting

Crafty Sassy: Top 10 Free Crochet Shawl Patterns

Posted on May 20, 2020August 1, 2020 by Katie Night

Hey Dearies! So, here is another top 10 list, but for shawls! Since spring/summer is the perfect time to wear these, and since most of us are stuck at home with nothing to do, these are something you want to make.

Shawls can be used for fashion or something that can keep you warm, especially if you decide to go to the ocean or coast and don’t necessarily need or want to put on a sweatshirt.

One of the best things that I just love about these shawls is that they are perfect for using yarn cakes, which are a type of yarn that is in a ‘cake’ shape that is in different colors. Which turn out beautiful!

Note: These are not my patterns, all rights go out to their original creators. I will leave links to the patterns.

1. In The Garden Shawl

This shawl is perfect for enjoying your garden views or taking a hike in the forest. The design is open but very beautiful. This shawl isn’t using a ‘cake’ yarn, but if you have extra yarn laying around, I would use it to make one of these.

Link to the pattern: https://knotions.com/in-the-garden-shawl-2/

2. Triangle Shawl

I just love the ‘cake’ yarn that they used for this shawl, especially when the greens slowly turn into pink. In this showing, of a shawl, it shows that you don’t have to wear it as a wrap, but you can wear it as a sort of scarf.

Link to the pattern: https://www.anniedesigncrochet.com/2019/09/23/crochet-triangle-shawl-with-shells-free-pattern-fragrant-shawl/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest&utm_campaign=tailwind_tribes&utm_content=tribes&utm_term=838450652_35449804_530964

3. The Earth Shawl

One of the thicker looking shawls, however, more simple to create, perfect for a starter shawl. I also just love the colors, although when I saw that this shawl was called an ‘Earth’ shawl, I was surprised to see that they didn’t choose more of the green colors.

Link to the pattern: https://merrymarystories.blogspot.com/2019/01/how-to-crochet-earth-shawl.html

4. Cara Shawl

A more inclosed shawl, perfect for those chilly nights to hang around the campfire. This is more of a solid color, which is perfect if you are looking to make a simple shawl. It would also make a wonderful gift to grandmothers, as well.

Link to the pattern: https://trulycrochet.com/cara-shawl-free-crochet-pattern/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest&utm_campaign=tailwind_tribes&utm_content=tribes&utm_term=932303504_41169220_351291

5. Mahogany Shawl

This flower shawl is amazing! I just love the pattern and the color that they choose. Plus, the deep purple that they used, makes seeing the flowers easier and in more detail. Making this to go with a simple white dress, would look perfect together.

Link to the pattern: https://www.ravelry.com/projects/tearaleaf/south-bay-shawlette

6. Amore Wrap

Another ‘cake’ yarn pattern, but this one is the blues turning into pinks, which is beautiful, not only does it look like the perfect yarn to make a baby blanket with, but shawls look amazing in it.

Link to the pattern: https://noowul.com/amore-wrap-free-crochet-pattern/

7. Fairy Tale Shawl

I am one of those people that just love a good fairy tale and this shawl is perfect for whenever you think of the word ‘fairy tale’. The design is simply amazing, I just love the boarder, plus this shawl is longer, kinda like a cape.

Link to the pattern: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/fairy-tail-2

8. Bella Vita Shawl

Looking for a shawl to make that isn’t too open or flashy? This one is perfect for those who work in an office setting, this shawl is simple yet elegant. The ‘cake’ yarn that they used is amazing, perfect for making a lap blanket.

Link to the pattern: https://wilmade.com/bella-vita-shawl/

9. Primrose and Proper Triangle Shawl

Another thicker shawl that would be perfect for those chilly days that we get in between spring and summer. I also love the tassel idea, but if you have cat, watch out because they will think you made the shawl not just for yourself, but for them as well. This is also another design that is simple and perfect for beginners when it comes to making shawls.

Link to the pattern: https://kirstenhollowaydesigns.com/2019/12/primrose-and-proper-easy-triangle-shawl-crochet-pattern.html?crlt.pid=camp.1QzozM5GPMil

10. Bottom Up Shawl

Last, but not least, this shawl is one of my favorites, when it comes to the pattern and the ‘cake’ yarn that they chose for this project. Not only is the pattern look simple, but it looks like if you cut the solid granny square in half. You can also use this shawl to make it into a scarf, as well.

Link to the pattern: https://trulycrochet.com/bottom-up-shawl-free-crochet-pattern/

What do you think of these shawls? Is this something you would want to make or wear? Let me know in the comments.

Also, I will no longer have my Facebook page, so my updates will be posting on Instagram in my news feed or ‘story’, make sure to follow that as well.

Arts and Crafts, Crochet, Top Projects for Crochet/Knitting

Crafty Sassy – Top 10 Free Crochet Flowers Patterns

Posted on May 12, 2020August 1, 2020 by Katie Night

Hey Dearies! With it getting warmer outside, I figure it was time to go on the lookout for some crocheted flowers! Now, crochet flowers can be used for quite a bit of things, from accessories to pins and to add-ons for other projects that you might have.

Note: These patterns are not my own creation, all rights go to their original creators. There are links for each creation.

1. Sunflower

Sunflowers are always the perfect accessories for dresses, headbands, and even bags! Not to mention, you can always make them as hair clips or pins to add a touch of spring to your outfit. Some people have gotten creative and created a bouquet of them.

Link for pattern: https://www.skiptomylou.org/crochet-sunflower/

2. Cherry Blossom

Cherry blossoms are beautiful when they are in full bloom, not to mention, they are my sister’s favorite flower, so I had to add them onto this list. Even though they are small flowers, they can still be perfect add-ons to any project.

Link for pattern: https://www.goldenlucycrafts.com/cherry-blossoms-crochet-pattern/

3. Lilly

As you can see, people do crochet flowers as centerpieces or add them to vases, as if they were real. I was glad an added lilies to this list, it took forever for me to find, but I did! I’ve seen a few people crochet flower bouquets for weddings, and they love using these lilies!

Link for pattern: https://woolpatterns.com/beautiful-crochet-flowers-free-patterns/

4. 6 Petal Puff Flower

I love how the petals are 3D for this pattern. It spins a twist and makes these flowers more fun to create! I also love the different colors that the creator tried out for this pattern.

Link for pattern: http://mamachee.com/2010/07/26/6-petal-puff-stitch-flower/

5. Curved Edge Flower

If you are looking for a simple flower to make to add onto a project or make it into a pocket, these are the flowers to use for that. If you wanted to make them as pockets, you can always go up a hook size for a bigger pocket.

Link for pattern: https://crochetncreate.com/curved-edge-flower/

6. 6 Petal Flower

This flower has an amazing design, but the bead adds a perfect touch to the flower. I can see creating these as an added accessory for girls as a hair clip or for stylish headbands. The pattern might be a little challenging, but I love the added touch for each petal. Adding this one on my to-do list.

Link for pattern: https://www.crochetbeja.com/simple-crochet-flower-with-6-petals/

7. Blooming Flower With Leaves

I love these flowers! Just because the layers make them more beautiful and the added touch of the leaves is perfect. I love it when creators add little details, such as leaves and the colors that they chose as well.

Link for pattern: https://www.anniedesigncrochet.com/2018/12/30/blooming-crochet-flowers-free-crochet-pattern/

8. Loopy Flower

This is a more unique flower on this list, but the way the petals are created is amazing because it’s not how you would normally see petals created. Perfect add on to a hat or bag, I can even see you sewing a small button in the middle to give it some more detail.

Link for pattern: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/loopy-flower-for-february

9. Kanzashi Flower

When I saw this flower, all I could think of was ‘That 70s Show’. These flowers are pretty ‘groovy’, but I just love the button that they added, which makes it seem more modern. I also just love the colors that were chosen.

Link for pattern: https://naztazia.com/kanzashi-flower/

10. Summer Daisy

Another flower that I had to go looking for, daisies! I’ve actually tried out a pattern like this and it is very simple to create, not to mention, I’ve seen them being added to blankets. I think they would look wonderful on a sunhat, especially for the little ones!

Link for pattern: http://justpootling.blogspot.com/2016/06/summer-daisy-garland.html?m=1

There you have it! Which ones are your favorites and are you wanting to try out? Let me know in the comments down below, also make sure to follow me on Facebook for my daily updates on this blog!

Products, Reviews

Product Review – HUE HD Webcam

Posted on May 12, 2020 by Katie Night

Hey Dearies! Forgot to post this Saturday, but I wanted to review this webcam since it was something that I ended up getting for myself when I was doing Facebook lives all the time.

One of the reasons as to why I was looking into webcams that were overhead, was because I wanted to record videos of my crocheting so that I could post them on my blog and/or to YouTube.

Most of the camera’s that I found were between $99-$200. Since I didn’t know anyone else, I figured to see how well the cheaper camera would do. Now, a lot of the time it is a hit or miss when you buy something that is cheaper, so I took a chance.

When I got this item, I paid $50 buck for it on Amazon, which wasn’t too bad, I just hoped that it would do the job that I was hoping it would do, which is sort of did. It also came in four different colors: green, red, blue, and of course black. I got the green one.

Here is the link for the Webcam: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TTFEWG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

If you have been following me since the beginning, you know that some of my lives are used with my phone and a tripod, but in some of the other videos, you couldn’t see the tripod, which was when I was using the HUE Webcam.

Now, before I purchase any products, especially on Amazon, I always just see the reviews, both good and bad, which for this product, it was kinda split in half. Meaning it worked for some and others, not so much.

For me, the first few times I worked with the camera, it worked great, downloading the CD program worked on my computer and it worked with no problems, but after a few times of trying to record longer and live, it started cutting out or not working.

I’m not sure if it was my computer or not, but it made it really hard for me to want to record or try to go live. I would even uninstall it and reinstall back onto my computer, sometimes it works that way, other times, not to much.

The good thing that I liked about the camera when it was working for me, was when I could adjust the picture or video clearly by turning the lens of the camera. I also like how there is a light to indicate when the webcam is plugged in, however, there is no manual control to turn it off and on.

Also, another feature is that you can attach and detach the camera from the base, which I found really helpful because if the base doesn’t want to work for you, you can always plug the camera directly into your computer base.

I might have to try it out on my laptop, and see if it works or not, and I will update when I do that.

Overall, for the price, it was okay, I wouldn’t get it again unless it was a last resort or they had it upgraded to something that was better than before. If anything, I would try out one of the more expensive ones, just to see if there is a major distance.

The good news is that, in good lighting, it records great! I just don’t understand why it was cutting in and out all the time. One of the options that I found very helpful, was that you could adjust the camera very easily, to any angle you needed it to be.

Have you tried out this camera? How was it for you? Or did you have the same problems as I did? Let me know in the comments down below and if there are any products you would like me to try out, let me know in the comments as well.

Writing Works

Finally Free – Friday’s Short Stories

Posted on May 8, 2020May 8, 2020 by Katie Night

Finally Free

Hey Dearies! So, this one is another short story based on an idea or prompt! This one inspired me or gave me the idea from Safe Haven, but with a different twist to it. This one has mentions of abuse, so if you are triggered by that, please don’t read!

What would freedom really be for those who are trapped?

Hailey didn’t know what freedom was until she got dropped off at the docks of Hawaii. She had finally left the pain and hurt that had been damaging her for years. She never thought that she would have to be on the run, but she figured being in Hawaii would give herself and her ex more distance between each other.

She looked around in amaze as she took a deep breath of her new surroundings. Picking up her bag pack that only held a few essentials that he grabbed in rush from leaving Kevin. She shook her head as she wandered around the street, she was amazed at the beautiful view of the ocean.

Hailey had always wanted to come to Hawaii, but after high school, her plans completely changed. They had especially changed since she met Kevin. The worse regret of her life. If she would’ve known what he would’ve been like before she had got with him, she would’ve run for her life.

Now she is running for her life.

Discouraging the thought of Kevin, something caught her eyes, as she watched him walk by. He looked familiar to her and it took her only a second to realize it was him, the real reason why she ran to Hawaii, all because of Ethan Brooks.

Her heart started to beat faster as he gazed into her eyes and stopping right in front of her.

“Hailey? Is that really you?” Her heart dropped, he still remembers her. Especially, since it’s been almost 3 years since she last saw him.

She was silent, a tear had fallen from her cheek, as she didn’t expect to cry in front of him. Instead of walking away from him, Ethan embraced her in his arms, holding her tightly. It made her feel safe and at home.

They stood there for a few minutes before Ethan pulled away from his embrace and took another look at her. Even though was in Hawaii, Hailey didn’t dress like she was comfortable. Wearing jeans and a tank top with a sweater covering her arms and zipped up to her neck.

Ethan noticed the bruise that slowly healing on her neck. Once he noticed that, he noticed other bruises of hers that were now more noticeable. “Walk with me, my beach house isn’t that far from here.” He grabbed her hand and took her bag of hers, throwing it over her shoulder, as he led to his beach house that was down the street from the boardwalk.

As soon as they got into Ethan’s beach house, Hailey was shocked at the place that she was in. She never knew that Ethan was rich, but he sure lived like it. She then took a view of the balcony that showed over the ocean, waves crashing onto the beach. It was heaven to her.

“Why didn’t you meet up with me that night?” Ethan spoke, he wasn’t going to catch up with her once he saw her bruises. Hailey beats herself up over not leaving to go with Ethan. She had met him in a nightclub, it was right after she 21, she went out with her friends to celebrate.

Hailey was talking to Kevin, but she was single when she met Ethan. When they danced, they clicked just like that and she followed him home where they had an amazing time. He told her he was leaving to go back to Hawaii and he wanted to take her with him, but before she could, she tried to explain it to Kevin, but it ended badly.

Hailey didn’t want to think about it, but she had to give Ethan an answer. “It’s harder for me to explain.” She spoke, turning to face him, tears fell from her eyes. “You don’t want to know what he did to me.”

Ethan, hugged her again, she hugged him back as she tried to maintain her crying, but it came out like waterfalls. “I’m sorry. I wanted to. I was ready to go and then he found out-”

“You don’t need to explain. You’re here with me now, aren’t you?” Ethan smiled, wiping her tears away as she gave him a smile in return. “Feel free to stay with me. I’m gonna make you something to eat, why don’t you go take a shower.”

Haily nodded as Ethan showed her the bathroom, giving her a set of sweat pants and shirt, then handing her a towel before walking out into the kitchen.

Hailey shut them down and started to strip out of her old clothes and looked at her naked self in the mirror, the black and blue bruises that were up and down on her body. She turned and looked at the deep scar that planted down her back, that hadn’t started to heal.

That scar was what gave her strength to leave Kevin.

After her shower, she got dressed in the clothes Ethan gave her and then headed into the kitchen, he was just finishing up cooking burgers. Her stomach growled, she hadn’t had anything since she left California except a cereal bar.

They ate together in silence. As Hailey was washing the dirty dishes, Ethan noticed the scar on her back, he was shocked at how bad the situation she was in. He turned her around, which scared her, she gazed into his eyes.

Ethan leaned his forehead against hers and studied her eyes, kissing her forehead. “I promise I won’t let anything bad happen to you. Stay with me.” He promised as Hailey was in shock, but it felt so right. She then nodded and then went to kiss his cheek, but Ethan turned his head, having her miss his cheek and plant a kiss onto his lips instead.

They kissed for a second, Hailey’s heart fluttered as she missed his kiss. Ethan pulled her closer and held her close, as they both had missed each other, more than they had known. In his arms, it was like wrapping yourself in a heavy blanket.

In the next few days, Ethan and Hailey caught up on what they missed in each other lives. The more time they spent together, they ended up growing closer to where they before. Hailey started to see a better version of herself in his arms, but having Ethan around made her forget all the pain and hurt that Kevin had ever put her in.

She was finally free from it all. The best part is that she was finally happier, stronger, and more empowered about her life choices. She was a bird that was finally free to fly where ever she wanted to go.

Let me know in the comments of what you thought about this short story! These will be posted every Friday and if you have a prompt or idea that you would like me to try out, let me know in the comments!

Arts and Crafts, Crochet, Top Projects for Crochet/Knitting

Crafty Sassy – Top 10 Free Crochet Bag Patterns

Posted on May 5, 2020August 1, 2020 by Katie Night

Hey Dearies! Since summer is right around the corner, I figured I would show you some free bag patterns. When it comes to crocheting, there are lots of bag patterns, from purses to handbags to market bags and so much more!

It’s crazy to see so many designs and patterns that they have for these super cute bags! I’ve made a few of them myself, which I have ended up using a few of them myself, not to mention, I’ve figured out what type of yarn is the best for crocheting bags, too.

So, these patterns, you can use the yarn that is recommended, but I’m going to put in my suggestion, just in case you don’t like how the cotton or acrylic feels or looks like as a crochet bag.

I recommend using the Bernat Maker Home Dec. I’ve used this yarn to create my make-up travel bag and I love how it’s not fuzzy, but it also looks a little better. Not to mention, this yarn is perfect for creating placemats, seat covers, or even coasters. The link below is where you can find some of this yarn, but you can find this at Walmart as well.

Note: These patterns are not my own, all rights go out to the creators. I will be linking the website for each pattern.

1. Valerie’s Market Bag

I’ve done a few patterns from The Lavender Chair and I just love her designs! I actually made my daughter’s first Easter dress from one of her patterns. Her bags though are just so beautiful! I also love the colors that she chooses for her bags as well!

Link to pattern: https://www.thelavenderchair.com/valeries-market-tote-crochet-pattern/

2. Beginner Market Tote Bag

This one is a simple market bag or for those of you that have little ones, this would be perfect to hold any sand toys, the best part is the gaps that would allow sand to fall out as you are leaving the beach. This is a pretty simple pattern if you are looking to learn how to crochet a market bag.

Link to pattern: https://easycrochet.com/market-tote-bag-crochet-pattern/?utm_content=buffer56f22&utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest.com&utm_campaign=buffer#.VcZWYCZVikp/

3. Easy Market Tote

I love the colors that they used for this bag! Perfect for the little girls that you know, especially if they want a bag like their mommy. This is another easy bag and has the granny square build into it, which is very simple to follow in a pattern.

Link to pattern: https://loopsandlovecrochet.com/2019/07/18/easy-market-tote-free-crochet-pattern/

4. Beach Please Summer Tote

I actually have this bag save in my ‘to-do’ list for myself! I love the design, but they are also using the same yarn that I recommend! Also, the color combination is perfect for this tote bag! I think I will actually get the yarn to recreate this!

Link to pattern: https://loopsandlovecrochet.com/2019/07/07/beach-please-summer-tote-free-crochet-pattern/

5. 1 Skein Farmer’s Market Bag

Another simple farmer’s market bag, but this one is different from the others. Some of the bags that are on this list or others that you might find somewhere else might require to use more than just one skein, however this pattern, you’ll only need one. This is super helpful if you have a skein of yarn just hanging around and your not quite sure what to make with it, which would make this project perfect for that!

Link to pattern: https://www.sewrella.com/1-skein-crochet-farmers-market-bag/?epik=dj0yJnU9M3pTN2p3ZDBsd0VweXJqS09wZFVoN1hkR1hiNVVoeGYmbj1ZMVVyRHQwRUVVZTFQdk5IWXBEaUFnJm09MyZ0PUFBQUFBRjI1Ny1V

6. Starling Handbag

I love this one as well, a simple, yet beautiful design. I just love how the ribbon intertwines with the bag. This bag looks a little smaller than the others, so if you are looking for a bag that is perfect for a ‘Mommy & me’, this one would be perfect! Not to mention, all you would need to do, to make a smaller bag would be to use a smaller hook size to do so.

Link to pattern: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/starling-handbag

7. Solid Granny Square Bottom Bag

This bag is a solid granny square, which is perfect for those beginners wanting to practice with patterns or just to challenge yourself with something new to do! I also love the colors they choose for this, going from white to pink to dark pink into grey!

Link to pattern: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/solid-granny-square-bottom-bag-crochet-tutorial

8. Sweet Pea Tote Bag

I would say this is the perfect bag for the beach, just because the stitch is a shell stitch! I also love the yarn they used for this. I think I might add this to my list of endless patterns to try out! However, I might more of an ocean color yarn mix or a blue color yarn mix or add some 3D crochet turtles onto the bag.

Link to pattern: https://capscrochet.webs.com/apps/blog/show/1523376-sweet-pea-tote-bag-pattern

9. Meshy Shells Market Tote

Another shell’s bag, but instead of the shells being really close to together, they are more spaced out, which is makes this a wonderful bag to use for either the market or for the beach or ocean. I also love the handle that she chose for this pattern!

Link to pattern: https://www.thelavenderchair.com/meshy-shells-market-tote-crochet-pattern/

10. Puff Stitch Market Bag

Another granny square stitch, but this bag is a little bigger than the other one, which would be perfect for the beach, not to mention the colors that they chose for the bag, I just love it! I also like how this bag is taller, which is perfect for holding quite a bit of stuff.

Link to pattern: https://crochetbag.einsnummer.com/puff-stitch-market-bag-pattern-free-easy-crochet/

Which patterns were your favorites? Any of them that have caught your eye or get you interested in recreating one of these? Let me know in the comments below!

Make sure to follow me on Facebook for daily updates and if you want to see any of my projects that I’m currently working on!

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