plaid diamonds

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Plaid diamonds. That's what this reminds me of.
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Only it's really entrelac. And as confusing as the technique appeared at first -- it becomes reeeeeeeeeeally addicting once you get the hang of it.

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Perfect and precise directions are from this book. And the photos that go along with the directions are exceptional to aid those of us --ahem --who are visual learners.

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I had 2 tiny bits of scrap yarn in my stash that I used to see if I could even do this. And now that I am thoroughly smitten with this tunisian-type crocheting, I am going to do more.

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The stitch used is actually a tunisian simple stitch (or afghan stitch as it is called in the book) and after searching a million different places for a tunisian how-to, I found this from CrochetSide to be so, so helpful!

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This is the backside -- and in my very limited grasp of knitting -- it looks so much like...well...it was knitted.

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So now that I am thoroughly charmed by this tunisian-type crocheting, I am going to do more.

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I can see a scarf in a red and white plaid.

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Hmmm. Time to check my stash.....

irish crochet coaster

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Intricate lace not only intrigues me -- it instills in me a passion & desire to recreate it. And irish crochet is one of those delicate, yet gorgeous laces that just leaves me breathless.

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One of my past issues of MAGIC CROCHET (Oct. 2002 -- issue 140) includes a crochet pattern for an irish crochet coaster.

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An added bonus? It is shown in Christmas colors.

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Perfect.

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So using my size 5 crochet hook and crochet thread that I purchased from the thrift store, I made one little irish crochet coaster that seemed so well suited for this one little, vintage Christmas figurine.

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snowy claus & paws

*gasp* Look at what I received from my swap partner, Diana. Snowy snowmen, snowy Claus -- and yes, there are even snowy paws.




These potholders are just soooooo beyond cute! She used Annies Attic Ultimate Book of Potholders.



And also sent this delicious Patons Pure Organic Cotton and a recipe for Christmas Pudding -- yum!

But that's not all! Oh my, she knows me so well -- look at the books she also sent --->Fun to Crochet Gifts & Stocking Feet. I have wanted these in my collection of crochet books!

Such a wonderful swap with such a wonderful crocheter!

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Thank you, Diana!