Lion Brand Notebook

News, Ideas and Information for Crafting with Yarn

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Archive for the 'Crafting' Category


Get Going on Your Holiday Gifts with the Martha Stewart Crafts™ Knit & Weave Loom Kit

October 28th, 2011

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If you’re like me, you’re probably thinking about making some holiday gifts this season. I love to make accessories in fun colors and textures for my friends and family, since it’s a nice way to change up a winter look. They’re my go-to gift items.

A great tool for cranking out gifts is our Martha Stewart CraftsTM Knit & Weave Loom Kit, which lets you knit, weave, and double-knit (as shown above), along with making rosettes, and knit in the round. The Kit is particularly fast in weaving and double-knitting, making those crafts perfect for making multiples–especially if, like me, you find yourself perpetually biting off more than you can chew when it comes to gift recipients.

If you’ve never woven before, it’s a great way to mix and match colors to create interesting plaids or striping designs. Check out the weaving patterns on LionBrand.com or click here for my blog post about picking yarns for weaving.

Wondering why you should try double-knitting? First off, it’s extra warm, allowing you to creates a double-thick layer of fabric. But more impressively, one project you’ll want to check out is our Loom Double Knit Duo Striped Scarf (right). Unlike in regular or loom single knitting (in which you would have yarn floats on the back-side of your work), loom double-knitting allows you to make vertical stripes with ease AND it’s completely reversible! I kid you not; double-knitting on the loom is seriously fast, seriously easy, and definitely worth trying.

Finally, for the crafter in your life, you may want to consider giving the Kit itself as a gift. Find out why loom-knitting might be a good option for both younger and older crafters by reading this interview with designer, Isela Phelps.

For the patterns shown above, simply click on the photos to access them on LionBrand.com.


Wisteria Shawl Collar Pullover KAL: Working the Collar

October 26th, 2011

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Welcome back to the Wisteria Pullover Knit-Along! My sweater pieces are knit and blocked, and I’m ready to get this pullover finished! In getting started to put mine together, however, I realized there are quite a few different finishing techniques involved and quite a large collar to knit, so I’m going to break the finishing work down into two posts, this week and next. Let’s get started on the shoulder seams and collar!

The first step is to seam the shoulders in order to create the back neck opening for the collar. To do so, I recommend a type of seam called the mattress stitch. There are three different types of mattress stitch: horizontal to horizontal stitches (side seams), vertical to vertical stitches (shoulder seams), and vertical to horizontal (the collar and part of the sleeve cap). As you can see, we’ll be employing all three along the way to finishing our sweater! Starting at the outside edge of your shoulder seam, pin your front and back pieces together and begin seaming, working your darning needle under both legs of the V on one piece and then under both legs of the V opposite on the other piece, as shown in the following image. I’ve used a golden yarn so that you can see the stitches, but keep in mind that these will be visible, so you should use the same yarn as for the main body. For more information on seaming click here.

Seaming

I like to keep the tension of this seam similar to my knit stitches, instead of pulling it tight so that the seam looks like another row of stitches, but it’s entirely up to you. Here’s why mine looked like after seaming:

Shoulder Seam

Repeat with the other side and voila! Starting to look a bit more like a sweater? Now you can start to picture where this collar is going to fit in. So now it’s time to pick up stitches to start knitting the shawl collar. The way the collar is constructed is this: you pick up and knit a certain number of stitches along the back of the neck and begin working in 2×2 rib; gradually more stitches are cast on at the beginning of both rows to elongate the collar but give it a nicely-shaped curve, then it is knit until it is wide enough to fill the gap we created in the front.

To plan mine, I counted how many bind-off stitches I had along the back of the neck opening and found I had 32 – 2 short of the 34 I needed to pick up. I accounted for this by picking up my first and last stitch from the shoulder join, then used the 32 stitches I bound off before ato get my 34 stitches to start the collar. Working from right to left, pick up and knit each stitch until you have the number required. By planning ahead, you can evenly space these stitches instead of getting to the end and having to stretch across or cram in a bunch of stitches. For more information about picking up stitches, click here. Here’s what the process of picking up and knitting looks like (again, I’ve used contrast yarn, but you’ll be using your main body yarn):

Picking up stitches

To add the stitches at the beginning of the row, one simple method is the backwards loop cast on. Click here for more information on how to do this cast on. Just as a word of advice: once you have your added stitches, the pattern says to work in K2, P2 rib as established – be aware that on your right side rows, you will need to start with 2 purls, or you will throw off the rib pattern.

If you made your neck opening deeper or more shallow, now is the time to adjust your collar length to fit your opening, keeping in mind the collar is sewn in with the ribbing slightly stretched. I worked the pattern as written, and my collar fit well. Although the opening looked very deep, it worked out very nicely. Keep working in 2×2 ribbing until the side edges of the collar are the same height as the bound-off opening in the neck, which for me was just over 4 inches. Remember the back section of the collar will be wider than this, which creates the shawl collar.

Now it’s time to sew it into place. We’ll be using a different version of the mattress stitch for this: the vertical-horizontal type. This method combines the technique of the other two versions: you work under the V of the vertical piece, then under the bar one stitch in from the edge of the horizontal piece, back and forth, then pull them together to make the seam disappear. Again check out the page we have about seaming by clicking here, where you can see what I mean between the different horizontal and vertical stitches (disregard the garter stitch seams since we have stockinette and ribbing.)

I chose to secure the bottom of the collar first, then attach it down each side so I could fit it in smoothly. I joined the left side of the collar (your left, the sweater’s right side) first, using a simple whip stitch between the side of the collar and the bound-off stitches of the neck opening, since this part of the seam will be covered up by the overlap. Next I attached the other side of the collar on top, carefully working my vertical-horizontal mattress stitch to make the join as invisible as possible, resulting in this:

Seam

I applied the same type of seam to the sides of the collar, pinning the collar in place first: one in the middle, then two on either side of that, to ensure that I could make the collar lay flat and even. It takes some patience to make it look right, but it’s worth it! Here’s a picture of my finished collar and I couldn’t be happier!

Collar

As I mentioned last week, once I finished knitting the sleeves it was time to get those blocked and ready for seaming. As with the front and back of the sweater, it’s very important to have your pattern schematic and a measuring tape handy when blocking so you can shape and size the sleeves to the exact measurements you want in the finished piece and it makes seaming much easier. My sleeves are all pinned out and drying, ready for next week!

So enjoy your week and completing the collar of your sweater, and next week we’ll set in the sleeves and seam up the sides, then enjoy our finished pullovers!
Related links:


5 Tips on How to Design and Make a Scarf

October 24th, 2011

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Whether you’re a beginner interested in making your first project special or an experienced designer looking for a new endeavor, designing your own scarf is a wonderful project. Scarves can be as plain or complex as you like, and since you won’t have to worry about fit, scarf projects are the perfect opportunity to try out new skills or yarns. If you have made scarves before and want to try designing your own scarf from scratch, the tips below can help get you started. If you prefer working with a pattern and modifying as you go, click here to see all the scarf patterns available for free online at LionBrand.com.

Try these 5 tips to design a scarf that is perfect for your taste and style.

Metropolis Scarf Easily Customize Length & StyleMost scarves are designed to be a single, long strip of material. If you already have a favorite scarf pattern that you’d like to make in a new way, try making that strip into a new shape. You can get the look of an extra long scarf like the Metropolis Scarf to the left by adding more rows of the stitch pattern. If you feel adventurous, you can even sew the ends together to make a long infinity-style scarf.
Craft with Yarn Learn a New CraftIf you normally stick to one craft, a new scarf is a  perfect opportunity to try out knitting, loom knitting, crochet, or weaving. If you’re interested in learning a new craft or just brushing up on your skills, click these links to Learn to Crochet and Learn to Knit, and watch our videos on Loom Knitting and Weaving.
Stitch Patterns Try a New Stitch PatternBecause scarves are typically a simple rectangle, a new stitch pattern can make all the difference to the look of your project. Take a look at the Lion Brand.com  Stitch Finder for inspiration.
Yarns Choose a Yarn You LoveA new scarf is a great opportunity to work with a new yarn for the first time. Because scarves tend to be of simpler construction, so be sure to pick a yarn that you love to make a scarf you’ll love wearing. Click here to see all the colors and styles of yarn on LionBrand.com
Make Tassels Add Details and AdornmentsClever details like tassels, fringe, appliques and buttons are part of what makes designer scarves so highly coveted. They can also make your handmade scarf uniquely you. Click here to learn how to make your own tassels like the ones to the left. You can add buttons, beads, patches, trims or pockets to your scarf, the sky is the limit.

Choosing new yarns, trying out stitch patterns and adding details will truly make your scarf one of a kind and uniquely perfect for you.

Have you ever designed or modified a scarf? Share your story in the comments section below!


October 14th is I Love Yarn Day

October 14th, 2011

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The Craft Yarn Council has declared October 14th “I Love Yarn Day”; I’m sure all of you wonderful crafters profess your love for yarn all of the time, but now, there is an “official” day we can all unite and do so. In celebration of this day, you are encouraged to knit/crochet in public (as if you don’t already do so!), do something for charity, wear a knit/crochet item or even teach someone how to knit or crochet. On this day, Lion Brand would like to thank all of you for your support; we love our yarn crafting community! We thought including a roundup of some Customer Gallery submissions would be very suitable for this celebration, go ahead and take a gander.

(Pattern information is only available if the customer noted pattern on their submission.)

Commemorative Police Throw
Commemorative Police Throw
Created by: Laura Hanson
Craft: Knit
Yarn: Vanna’s Choice
Weekend Retreat Cardi


Weekend Retreat Cardi

Created by: Margaret Mealia
Craft: Knit
Yarn: Vanna’s Choice
Crochet Lola Doll
Crochet Lola Doll
Created by: Sheila Sessions
Craft: Crochet
Yarn: Vanna’s Choice
School Colors ScarfSchool Colors Scarf
Created by: Bump Shannan
Craft: Knit
Yarn:Wool Ease Thick & Quick
Knitting Bag
Knitting Bag
Created by: Joan Livernois
Craft: Knit
Yarn: Amazing
2 Bears
2 Bears
Craft: Crochet
Yarn: Homespun
CowlCowl
Created by: Brenda Taulbee
Craft: Crochet
Yarn: Amazing
Whimsical OwlWhimsical Owl
Created by: Yvonne Odegard
Craft: Crochet
Yarn: Vanna’s Choice
Cable Ready BagCable Ready Bag
Created by: April Wood
Craft: Knit
Yarn: Wool Ease Thick & Quick

Have you been previously informed that today is “I Love Yarn Day?”, if so, how will you celebrate? If you didn’t know before, now you do- so go out and represent your love for yarncrafting!

(Please note, due to holiday observances, our offices and Lion Brand Yarn Studio and Lion Brand Yarn Outlet are closed today and tomorrow.)


How to Make a Wreath for Any Occasion

October 7th, 2011

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Wreaths are a great way to celebrate any holiday, and a handmade wreath will last for many seasons to come. If you make your wreath with friends and family, each person can make leaves, flowers and decorations. Add each individuals work into one wreath, and you’ll have made an art project into a lasting piece of holiday fun. It’s also an Earth-Friendly project, since you’ll be able to use wreath over and over in the years to come. 

Celebrate the changing seasons with the elegant felted Fall Wreath (pictured to the right) or one of the wreaths below. Want to make your wreaths extra special? Use the tips below to make your wreaths uniquely you.

Fall Wreath
This shimmering wreath makes excellent wall and door decorations. They already have the texture and sparkle of designer decoration, but unlike wreaths with natural plant branches or glitter, these wreaths won’t shed and will stay sparkly and brilliant for years to come. 

Tip: Shimmer and texture have year-round appeal. The sparkle of this yarn make it great for decorations; try making this wreath in a child’s favorite color and embroidering their name on it as a special decoration for the door to their room.

Fall Foliage Felted Wreath The crocheted  and felted leaves of this Fall Foliage Felted Wreath make it easy to customize. Pick the fall colors of Alpine Wool used in this example, or light spring colors to celebrate the end of winter. 

Tip: Add amigurumi to make your wreath unique. A small amigurumi or two can create a sweet scene inside this wreath. Try the Amigurumi Love Birds or some autumnal Thanksgiving Gourds in the center of this one.

Thanksgiving Wreath This Thanksgiving Wreath is an excellent project for using up yarn. Since the leaves and body of the wreath are wrapped, rather than knit or crocheted, they take much less yardage to create. 

Tip: Decorate your wreaths with scrap yarn. Mix and match any fibers you have left over from other projects to create leaves and decorations. Since you won’t be washing the wreath, you don’t have to worry about the fiber content or care instructions, just the colors and textures.

Wrapped Wreath

Get ready for winter holiday cheer with this Wrapped Wreath in Holiday Homespun. The yarn of this wreath has all the silky sheen of Homespun with an added glint of sparkle. Little yarn ball ornaments make a sweet touch to the finished wreath. 

Tip: Hang extra ornaments and holiday treasures from your wreath. Your wreath is a great place to hang ornaments you have no more room for. Be sure fasten ornaments securely; extra twist ties and safety pins work very well. If you’ll be hanging the wreath outside, be sure your ornaments are weather proof.

The care and keeping of handmade wreaths is fairly simple when you use long-lasting materials like cardboard and yarn. Simply wrap your wreath loosely in paper or fabric to keep them dust free while in storage (a pillow case works perfectly for smaller wreaths). Keep them with your other seasonal decorations and they’ll be easy to find each year.

To see even more patterns for wreaths, click here

Have a favorite wreath or holiday decoration you’ve made yourself? Leave a comment to tell us your story.


Wisteria Shawl Collar Pullover Knit-Along: Gauge Swatch and Casting On!

September 28th, 2011

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Hello and welcome back to the Wisteria KAL! Hopefully you’ve had time to get your yarn and needles together because it’s time to dive into the the pattern with the all-important gauge swatch. Determining your gauge is crucial for getting on the road to a successful finished sweater. When you take to time to find the needle size that gives you the gauge of the pattern, you will be on your way to a sweater that actually turns out the size you want it to be!

The gauge of this pattern is 17 stitches over 4 inches (4.25 sts/in) and 24 rows over 4 inches (6 rows/in). To make a gauge swatch for this project, I recommend casting on at least 25 stitches and working for at least 30 rows so you have a nice large swatch to measure over. After I bind off my swatch, I measure both the stitch and row gauge by lining up a rule at the edge of one stitch and counting how many stitches fill 4 inches (see photos below). Make a note of these numbers, then wash and block your swatch. This is important as many yarns change slightly after washing, either shrinking slightly or very often “blooming” and getting a bit looser, so if you ever plan to get your finished sweater wet, wash your swatch! To do so, I soak my swatch in a sink of water for 10 minutes, gently squeeze out the excess water, then lay it out flat to dry. If you are using a cotton yarn for this pullover, you may want to spray block your swatch instead by laying it flat and wetting with a spray bottle. Once dry, re-measure your swatch as shown:
Stitch gaugeRow gauge
Before blocking, using a size 8 needle with Amazing (in Constellation) I had 18 stitches and 25 rows over 4″ x 4″, but after blocking I (magically!) had the exact pattern gauge of 17 stitches and 24 rows! It is not always possible to get both the stitch and row gauge on one needle size, so use the needle size that gives you the correct stitch gauge, but make sure to make a note of your row gauge with that needle size because that will become important when we get to the sleeves. If your first swatch does not result in the correct gauge, make another! If you have more than 17 stitches, your gauge is too tight so try a larger needle; if you have less than 17 stitches, your gauge is too loose so try a smaller needle. You can see more about gauge here.

Once you have determined the needle you need to use to get gauge, let’s talk about the pattern itself. Some of you have been posing questions about knitting in the round and the use of circular needles, so let’s start there. As far as choosing what type of needle to use, straight needles are perfectly fine for this project as all pieces are knit flat, but you also have the option of using a circular needle to better accommodate the number of stitches for each piece. Since I do a lot of my knitting on the subway in very cramped quarters, I tend to knit most things on circular needles to avoid jabbing the people next to me! My preference is for 29-32″ circulars, but for this pattern anywhere from 24″ and up will hold the number of stitches just fine. Just because you are using a circular needle does not mean you are knitting in the round. Instead, treat them just as you do your straight needles by turning your work at the end of each row and working back.

Some of you, however, have asked about converting this pattern to work it in the round, so let me talk about some pros and cons. I know many people dislike the seaming involved in making a sweater in pieces, and I understand the feeling. Often times, however, when a pattern is written in pieces instead of in the round there is a reason: seams provided structure to a sweater so it is less likely to stretch out of shape. This is great to keep in mind for any sweater but especially in this case where the pullover already has a relaxed fit. Although I love knitting in the round as well, I’ve learned from doing other sweaters that sewing seams isn’t that bad and can actually be a very rewarding finishing step. A later post will cover all of the different seaming techniques you’ll need to finish this garment beautifully.

Another important consideration if you still want to work this sweater in the round is to keep in mind what type of yarn you are using: self-striping or a solid color. When working a sweater in the round, you will eventually have to transition to working flat after dividing for the neckline and armholes. If using the recommended yarn, Amazing, the stripes will be much thinner when working the round and will then become much wider when you start working back and forth in rows, which may not be a look you want your sweater to have.

If you are using a solid yarn this is not a concern, so feel free to work as you wish keeping the stretch factor in mind. To convert to in-the-round, you generally want to take the cast on number for the back plus the cast on for the front, subtract 4 (2 stitches each side allowed for seaming) and cast on that many stitches. Adjust this number as needed to make it divisible by 4 so that the 2×2 ribbing still works out. Please keep in mind if you choose to work in the round that I will be working my sweater in pieces and the upcoming posts will focus on pieced construction.

As you start by casting on for the pullover, one final consideration to make is how long you want the body to be. As written, you work for 14 inches to the underarms, but this length is easily adjusted. The pattern does not have waist shaping, so you are free to make the body as long as you wish – this is why this is such a great unisex pattern! If you are following instructions for the similar Newcastle Pullover, the body for that version is already written as 17 inches to the armholes, 3 inches longer than the Wisteria. I suggest measuring a sweater you like the fit of, this time for length, to figure out how long you want to make the body of your sweater. Make a note of this length (I like writing all over my copy of patterns!) because if you make a change it will come into play when we work the front in a couple of weeks.

For now, figure out your gauge and then feel free to get going on the back of your sweater! It starts with three inches of a 2×2 rib (knit 2, purl 2) followed by your desired length to the armholes of stockinette stitch (knit one row, purl one row). Next week I’ll talk more about the back of your sweater and how to shape the armholes. Enjoy and see you next week!


Crafty and Creative: Blogs That’ll Keep You Craving for More

September 14th, 2011

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If you’re a crafty person then you probably read a few different blogs during the week. Blogs can be inspirational, educational and just plain fun to read! I love when bloggers take the time to post with detailed pictures; who doesn’t like eye candy? When it comes to yarn crafting, these are some of the blogs that definitely keep my attention (hopefully I can do another blog round up soon). From general crafting, to knitting and crocheting, these blogs might make you want to create something beautiful–or maybe adopt a pet!

Pugnotes
Meet Melissa and Archie! I simply can’t get enough of this blog. Melissa has the cutest little pug named Archie, and pug creations adorn her site. She knits, crochets and paints mostly animal related items. I absolutely adore her doggy sweater vests; stop by her site and check them out.
Crochet Everyday
Megan “the newlywed” is on a journey to completion. She posts a ton of new patterns, with a goal to create something for every pattern she’s created by 2014. Megan primarily crochets, but she also sews and makes quilts. Oh–and in addition to picture/pattern posts, she does frequent giveaways!
Tammy Powley: The Crafty Princess Diaries
Welcome to the world of crafty Tammy, and meet her 4 cats (Coco, Chanel, Herbie and Lola) along the journey.  Tammy crochets, creates jewelry, does some knitting, and even experiments with looms.  To further help inspire, Tammy continuously posts links to other crafty websites.  I love to see her cats stuff themselves in cardboard boxes, adorable.
Craftzine.com- Blog
Craft Magazine’s blog, Craftzine, is what you would call- Awesome! Every day there is a new craft to try on your own.  This blog is a compilation of DIY crafts that range from embroidery, cooking, baking, sewing, yarncrafting… and the list goes on! You’re sure to find something here no matter what your crafting status is; from beginner to advanced, you’ll enjoy this blog!

a caffeinated yarn
I love the “homey” feel of this blog.  I feel like I should be cozied up on my couch with some hot cocoa when I read this. Jodi has a plethora of beautiful knit and crochet projects and even posts cooking recipes (including pics of her finished results).  I enjoy the pictures of her cats snuggled up in the home made blankets; they’re so cute!
The Sweatshop of Love
If the bright colors of Allyson’s blog don’t catch your attention, her hip and modern pattern designs surely will.  Allyson creates lovely garments and fashion accessories with plenty of entrelac patterns.  She also posts amazing pictures from her travels which makes me want to visit some of the places she’s mentioned. If you enjoy knit-alongs, definitely give this blog a try, as she has done quite a few.

I’m always interested in finding new blogs; unfortunately I couldn’t list all of the ones I like, so hopefully I shall return with more listings. Have you, or do you read any of the blogs mentioned? What do you like to read? Share your thoughts!


Awesome Autumn Wedding Accessories

August 30th, 2011

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Will you be attending a wedding or getting married in the upcoming months? Fall is a popular wedding season, and I mean, why not? A wedding with fall color accents can be very beautiful.  I personally love to see the rich brown, gold and red hues in wedding decor.  Even a simple outside wedding with fall foliage in the background can be breathtaking.  Below you’ll find some patterns for wedding favors or decor inspirations.  Some of the pattern samples are designed in white, but take a look at these with alternative yarn colors for autumn themed creations.

Monogram Letters
Crafted with: Nature’s Choice Organic Cotton (Almond) 

Click here for pattern.

Other color suggestions in Nature’s Choice Organic
Cotton:
Spice, Mustard, Mocha

Lace Vase Cozy
Knit with:Sock Ease (Marshmallow)

Click here
for pattern. 

Other color suggestions in Sock Ease:
Green Apple, Circus Peanut


Wedding Favor Bags
Knit with Vanna’s Glamour (Topaz and Gold) 

Click here for pattern.

Other color suggestions in Vanna’s Glamour:
Copper, Bronze



Flower Hair Accessories
Crocheted with Vanna’s Choice Baby (Berrylicious, Goldfish,
Sweetpea, Lamb)  

Click here for pattern.


Ring Bearer’s Pillow Cover
Crocheted with Microspun (lily white)  

Click here for pattern.

Other color suggestions:
French Vanilla, Mocha

Amigurumi Bunny Topper
Crocheted with Vanna’s Choice 

Click here for pattern.

Congratulations to the couples to be wed in the remaining months of 2011! Wishing you plenty of joy and love!


How to Make Bracelets with Yarn

August 23rd, 2011

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If you host a girl-scout troop, after-school club, or just the neighborhood kids, it’s always have to some great craft projects in your back pocket for a rainy day…or perhaps you’re hosting a wine & crafts night (or a bridal shower, baby shower, birthday party, etc.) for your friends and you’re looking for some group-friendly activities that are fun and light-hearted. Either way, bracelets made of yarn can be a fun project to do together.

Whether you’re just crafting (by wrapping and gluing, knotting or braiding) or you’re knitting and crocheting, LionBrand.com has a great selection of bracelets and cuffs to check out. Here are just a couple of options, but as always, you can use the search box on LionBrand.com to look for others.

Wrapped Bangle Bracelets Wrapped Bangle Bracelets

Recycle sections of old mailing tubes or dress up plastic bangles with sparkling yarn. Just wrap and glue the yarn! This basic craft project can be done with kids of all ages in just about any yarn.

Click here for the pattern.

Craft Blue and Green Bracelet Wrapped & Braided Blue and Green Bracelet

Wrap a foam ball in yarn to create a bauble for your braided bracelet. Glue, yarn, and a foam ball are all you need to make bracelets of all sorts.

Click here for the pattern.

Knotted Friendship Bracelet Knotted Friendship Bracelet

You may remember knotting lanyards or embroidery thread as a kid to make bracelets for all of your friends. Relive those days–or pass this easy skill onto a child in your life–with this beginner pattern.

Click here for the pattern.

Glittering Knit Bracelet Glittering Knit Bracelet

This cable-knit bracelet is a stylish project that all your friends will love. Practice your cabling skills and make them in different colors so you can share!

Click here for the pattern.

Pink Sparkle Crochet Bracelet

Pink Sparkle Crochet Bracelet

This 5-star pattern is quick & easy, even for the novice crocheter. Make multiples in different shades of sparkling Vanna’s Glamour for party favors!

Click here for the pattern.


Crafting with Kids Before School

August 18th, 2011

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The days are nearing where the kids will be off to school and you worry less about what daytime activities will keep them occupied.  BUT, before you get ready to send them back to school, why don’t you cherish this time left and craft some projects together (or tell the kids to create some of these easy crafts to show you when you get home).  No needles or hooks required!

Paper Box Vases
Add some yarn flair to your containers with this simple craft great for pen/pencil holders, flower vases and more.

Crafted with Homespun.
Skill Level: Beginner

Click here for free pattern.

Blue Bayou Tassle Necklace
Stylish teens and younger children can have fun crafting this unique necklace. There are so many different color combinations to be made!

Crafted with Fun Yarn.
Skill Level: Easy

Click here for free pattern download.

Pom-Pom Caterpillar
Playing with caterpillars can be fun when they’re made out of yarn! Sew your pom-poms together to make this little critter.  It’s a great toy for a child, baby, and even a pet.

Crafted with Fun Yarn.
Skill Level: Beginner

Click here for free pattern.

Wrapped Bangle Bracelets
Make a few of these bracelets in different sizes and layer them for a night out.  These can make a great accessory for a simple outfit; try a different look with some sparkle from Vanna’s Glamour.

Crafted with Vanna’s Choice.
Skill Level: Beginner

Click here for free pattern.

Star Street Necklace and Bracelets
Have the kids craft their own jewelry set that you don’t have to worry about them losing or needing repair!

Crafted with Homespun.
Skill Level: Beginner

Click here for free pattern.

Check out some more crafting ideas from Lion Brand Yarn here! If you decide to craft any of these projects, we strongly encourage you to review our patterns.  Don’t forget, you can always post final projects to our customer gallery.  Happy Crafting!