Saturday, June 19, 2010

Granny Stripe Start

I've taken the leap.
I've started crocheting on the Granny Stripe Blanket by Lucy of Attic 24.
I'm having fun! (and oh, this could be SO addicting)
As a very new crocheter, and quite a novice in field of all things yarn, I want to share with you some of the things I have learned in the last few days.

I went into our local yarn shop here in town, and asked a few questions.
Lucy used a "dk" weight yarn, so that is what I purchased also.
The pattern calls for 17 colors, but I am starting with 11 bright shades.
Don't they just look happy sitting next to each other?

So far so good!
If I can do this, anyone can.
Lucy's pattern is a double-bed width, where she starts with 240 chains.
Because I am so new at this, I wanted my first attempt to be a little smaller. I am going with more of a baby size, and chained 150. She said the foundation chain needed to stay within multiples of 3.

Because "dk" is a lighter weight yarn, I am also following Lucy's use of a "G" sized crochet hook.

In the instructions, Lucy suggested doing a practice strip first. I used my worsted weight with an "I" (5.50) size hook, and got the technique down.
Yes! I can do this!
But, I didn't like the chunkiness in size, which helped me realize I wanted to purchase the smaller dk weight and use a smaller crochet hook.

Another challenge I had was learning how to add in a new yarn color. Lucy gives good instructions, but I am such a visual learner.
I found a great free video tutorial that really helped me "see" the technique.
http://www.nexstitch.com/v_changing_yarn.html

I've appreciated all of your comments, suggestions and encouragement.
Mary reminded me that this could be addictive, and to look out for carpel tunnel.
Sequanna (Annie) informed me that Amy Butler has a new line of yarns out, and provided a link:
http://www.fabric.com/SearchResults2.aspx?Source=Header&SearchText=amy+butler+yarns&CategoryID=1d5f47dc-9991-4088-93f3-26a376046a5e
OK. Now I am really in trouble.

10 comments:

Darlene said...

You might be in 'trouble' but I do believe you're having fun. LOL

It's going to be fabulous, Nedra.

Laura said...

Great yarn choices and the afghan is looking great so far!

Carol said...

Oh Nedra I just love it...the colors are gorgeous and it's looking great!

Jan Marie said...

I find this to be very relaxing as long as there is no deadline in site. Love your colors.

Kim Walus said...

Hi Nedra, I'm excited to start making one but I have to find the yarn I want to use. I have this great yarn that comes in beautiful colors but it's 100% peruvian wool. It has a really nice feel to it. I'm going to use her sample instructions to make a small one to see how it looks. It also uses a 5mm hook.

Also I'm so new that I didn't know what DK meant. lol. so I looked it up here:

http://www.anniesattic.com/pages/yarn_faq.html

It means Double Knitting Yarn.

Double knitting (DK) yarn
Needle size: 5-7 (3.75-4.5mm)
Knit gauge: 6 sts = 1"

Hook size: F/5-G/6
Crochet gauge: 16 sts = 4 inches

I just wish there was room at the cabin so I could go too. I'd love to crochet and quilt along with you and the others.

Have fun next week.

antique quilter said...

great colors! ah yes the collection of yarn will start now!!!!!
great progress!
I am so tempted to make one of these too!
but of course it means yarn shopping!!!!
kathie

Material Mary said...

Your colors are absolutely yummy. I love working with the dk weight yarn. Not too heavy but not to light--dk stands for double knitting--it's an English term that I picked up from my mom. Have fun with this!!
Mary

amy smart said...

This is going to be so wonderful, Nedra!

Also, I loved the story of finding Lori's note on your design wall. So funny and so sweet. :0

amy smart said...

This is going to be so wonderful, Nedra!

Also, I loved the story of finding Lori's note on your design wall. So funny and so sweet. :)

Nat Palaskas said...

Yummy color yarns. I love crochet too, but cannot take a leap right now. Too much of other things to do. Enjoy
Nat