Weeks 3, 4 and 5 of CAL

I've been having a lot of fun doing the Dada Neon CAL. This is a crochet-a-long for freeform crochet. Each week there is another piece to be added to the blanket.

If you're interested in joining, here is the first week:  http://dadacrochet.blogspot.de/2014/05/your-personal-freeform-cal-week-1.html

Week 1 was an abstract shape, week 2 was a hand.

Week 3 was a flower garden:  Here's mine:

Next came Vincent Van Gogh's "Starry Starry Night"
Here's my version of that:

Week 5 was favourite pet. This is very difficult for me, because I'm not really good at art, as such. Also how do I crochet every animal in the world?  They're all my favourites. I decided to go with a cat. It looks a bit like one of mine.

I decided rather than crocheting around it, I would do a netted background. Once it was joined on, I felt it needed something else, so I made a swirled ruffle in the corner. I will probably still need more, but I'll see as the blanket grows.


So this is what it looks like after week 5.

I'd gradually "loosened up"  while going through the weeks, and I started to "play" a bit more.

Floral Fantasy Mandala Pattern

 I've finished this pattern and had it tested.

It is now available from: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/floral-fantasy-mandala

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/9709288

and
http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/crocheting/home-decor/floral-fantasy-mandala/103993

 
This pattern consists of a variety of stitches, creating a multi-layered textured effect.

All stitches used are explained thoroughly. Illustrations and photos are included throughout the pattern to help make everything clear.

This is great for stash busting. Use a different colour for each row, or make it all in one colour.

The finished product can be used as a doily, a wall decoration, cushion covers, and much more.

Freeform CAL week 1 and 2

I've started the CAL. This is so free-ing!

So this is the result of week 1. It looks very strange, but I think I like it.

Week 2, I need to crochet a hand, then join the 2 pieces together.

I'm not so sure I like it now. But I'm really enjoying making it. It's such a different way of making things.

Freeform CAL

I'm in the middle of making some patterns, but I really want to do some freeform crochet.  I'm sure I'll be able to do both.

Freeform is just so amazing.

Have a look at these amazing pieces of art.

http://jac-bercreations.blogspot.com.au/2012/04/freeform-crochet-capelet.html

http://www.flickr.com/photos/elinfelt/3903215619/

http://easycrochetphoto.canalblog.com/archives/2013/05/08/27107149.html

So I've decided to join a freeform CAL(Crochet-a-long)

http://dadacrochet.blogspot.de/2014/05/your-personal-freeform-cal-week-1.html

I'm 8 weeks behind, but I'll catch up.

I'll post each piece on here as I've finished it.

The patterns that are coming soon, are for mandalas.

This is the first one:

Blocking and stiffening Crochet Items

Blocking and stiffening
 

When crocheting or knitting, you will often be instructed to block the piece/pieces.

Blocking is basically a way of stretching and shaping a piece to a certain shape or size. It helps it to look better, to be more uniform in shape and sets the design.