Crochet using variegated cotton yarn, NOT the look I had hoped for...

I was really eager to try out these gorgeous variegated cotton yarns to crochet a doily or two.  So once I decided on a pattern I got started.  But halfway through I realized I did not like it as much as I thought I would.  Its still a pretty piece, but not what I thought it would be..

It was as though the design and pattern did not really pop.  Maybe it all depends on the surface you're planning to use them on, but I was not too happy with the result.  So I crocheted the exact same pattern using white yarn and I think it looks much better!  It has a completely different look...

So I will just have to find another project for the rest of the yarns, I have no idea what to make yet... any ideas?

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African Flower Crochet Bag - Lining Tutorial

I have finished up my second african flower crochet bag, and thought I'd share with you how I've made the lining.  The pattern for the crochet bag can be found HERE, keeping mind that I used this tutorial to make the flowers.

I find it is easier taking measurements of your bag before the bottom is sewed on to the body of the bag.  So before your bag is completely stitched up, do the following:

Measure from the top of where the lining will be sewed on (just below the drawstring area), to the bottom.  Add at least 2 inches for the seam allowance, ½ inch for the bottom, and 1½ inches at the top that will be folded over.  When measuring the width, you'll need to multiply it by 2, then add 1 inch for your seam allowance.  

In this case; 

8 + 2 = 10 inches high

9½ x 2 = 19 + 1 = 20 inches wide

Fold the lining in half width wise, and with right sides together sew at least a ½ inch seam allowance.  To check of it will fit properly, place it inside the bag and make adjustments before sewing on the bottom.

Make a template of the bottom of the bag, I used two pieces of printer paper, sticking them together using clear tape.  Then pinning the crochet bottom piece to the paper, mark ½ inch seam allowance around the circle.  

Then pin the template on top of your fabric and cut right against the pattern.  You'll then need to add 'markers' to the bottom and bag lining, by folding the fabric in half, finger pressing or using a hot iron, fold in half again and press.

Match up the creased lines, right sides together and pin.  You'll notice that the circle is bigger than the bag, fold in pleats between the pins, and secure it properly.  Then sew it together using ½ inch seam allowance.

Since the bottom of your finished crochet bag forms a round shape, kind of like a 'bowl', the pleats of the lining will give the same result.  Fold over at least 1½ inches of the bag lining over and press to have flat and even straight seam to sew onto your bag.

Place the lining inside the bag, and hand sew the lining to the crochet bag.  Keeping in mind to grab the yarn with every stitch.  Keep the stitches really small to make sure its properly secured.

  

  

This bag is really small, but the process and steps would apply to a larger bag as well.  Hope you enjoy making your very own bag.

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So many WIPs

How many projects have you got that you're working on at once?  I think I might be overdoing it just a tad bit, I realized it today when I took them all out to take some pictures.  The following wips are all my most recent, I have three crochet projects going simultaneously, and already I am planning another.  

I bought these variegated yarns to make a few more doilies.  I enjoyed making my 1st one so much, all I've wanted to do since was try another few.  But for now I think I need to finish up a few of my other projects before starting another..

My most recent project is another African Flower Crochet Bag.  The first I made was for the Secret Tote Bag Swap, which was a hit by the way, my partner loved it!  This time I am using a much thinner yarn, so the bag will be really small.  All that is left to do, is construct the bottom of the bag, the drawstring, the part where the drawstring will pull through, and of course the lining.

Another crochet project is this Clam Shell Blanket.  I am using various colours of elle Pure Gold Chunky.  I think this project might sit on the shelf for a while.  The weather has warmed up considerably these past few weeks, and having it lie across my lap while crocheting might be murder, lol.  If you are interested in the pattern click HERE.  

Another crochet project, is this chevron blanket, I recon I am about halfway with this one.

Then, not forgetting that I quilt too, I've started cleaning up the back of the disappearing four patch baby quilt that I've made a few months ago.  The white fabric I used was fraying so much that I decided to clip them away before basting.  The last thing I want is for it to show up after quilting. 

So with it ready and 'clean' I started basting, I cant wait to start quilting it.  I've felt rather guilty for letting this one lie for so long.

Then, just when you thought I was done sharing all my WIPs, here is another I started.  A little cross stitch rose which was included with issue no 30 of Mollie Makes. 

 Hopefully before long I will be able to share a finish with you.

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Anything Goes Mondays #36

Last week we took a little break and visited my sister in law for a couple of days.  During our visit, I started another little crochet project.  I am going to make another african flower Crochet bag, the same bag I made in the Secret Tote Bag Swap, only this time a lot smaller.  I am using elle Premier Natural Cotton, in four different bright colours.  I will keep you updated with my progress...

...but let us have a look at some of the previous week's linkups.  These are chosen at random, if you do not wish to have it shown, please contact me.

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Joanie from Joanie's Trendy Quilts was inspired by all the colour changes of fall, and made this beautiful table runner.  Its definitely worth visiting her blog to see close up pictures of the quilting.  Its really beautiful.

Paula from Sassy Quilter made this beautiful star surround quilt, 'You are my sunshine' measuring 48 x 48 inches.  I truly love the colours of this quilt, and the simplicity of the quilting.

If you follow Sandy from Upstairs Hobby Room you'll know that she always keeps busy in her sewing room.  Between so many WIP's and finishes its hard to keep up with her.  She is definitely an inspiration.  Just look at this beautiful string block quilt.  

Diana from Red Delicious Life made this beautiful set of Ashen Floral Placemats.  Her free motion quilting is stunning, and I love that she used feathers, my all time favorite free motion quilting design.

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Now its your turn to link up for this weeks party...

....the rules are simple:

1.  Link up ANY recent post that features any quilting, sewing, knitting, crochet etc. projects.  If you've made it, we'd like to see it.

2.  Somewhere in your blog post, you must link back here to my blog, or grab the 'Anything Goes' button for your sidebar.

3.  Please do not just link-and-run, comment on at least a few other blogs linked, the whole point of having a party is to connect, share and maybe get a few new followers...

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An InLinkz Link-up

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