tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66443163316504056222024-03-13T05:52:13.749-06:00Kota's Crochet CreationsPictures and descriptions of all of my crochet creations. Please feel free to ask any questions you may have!Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-90365967629589366812016-09-18T22:13:00.000-05:002016-09-18T22:16:15.582-05:00Oh, Hello There!Hmm... I think I mentioned that I would be back in, what was it, <i>April</i>?<br />
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Oops. Sorry about that. Really. I work as a substitute teacher both in town and in the next town over, so I can get a little sidetracked and busy. Okay, <i>a lot</i> sidetracked and busy.<br />
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I don't have any pattern round-ups for you, but I do have a few photos of what I've been working on. Sadly, it's only been one project (not counting the order I'm still working on), but I can say that I've made my first "real" clothing item.<br />
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This is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/amelia-toddler-sundress">Amelia Toddler Sundress</a>. It was meant to be a birthday gift for one of my nieces (I have two little bitty ones now), but I foolishly made a mistake when reading the pattern and had to restart the entire skirt the night before the party. So, I've decided that it'll be a Christmas gift instead, which is fine because that gives me time to finish it properly (and go buy more yarn that I ran out of, of course).<br />
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Here is a couple of Work In Progress photos. I'm actually nearly done with it now. It's super cute and I've decided that I'm going to go ahead and make one up for my other darlin' niece for Christmas as well. I'm super proud of this!<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oeU1b4H6Phk/V99UvrD0CYI/AAAAAAAALnw/T-hLOZPknlM7HbF5ms4x9eV9-eKyN1QMwCLcB/s1600/Dress1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oeU1b4H6Phk/V99UvrD0CYI/AAAAAAAALnw/T-hLOZPknlM7HbF5ms4x9eV9-eKyN1QMwCLcB/s320/Dress1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T2qDIEzqRcw/V99Uva56RiI/AAAAAAAALns/KqusUs13JYomH0HOdYxGbEfDZIJed7Q-ACLcB/s1600/Dress2.jpg"><img alt="Sorry for the feet and the dog. Couldn't be bothered to move for a WIP pic." border="0" height="288" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T2qDIEzqRcw/V99Uva56RiI/AAAAAAAALns/KqusUs13JYomH0HOdYxGbEfDZIJed7Q-ACLcB/s320/Dress2.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></div>
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Isn't this just the cutest thing? I love it already. I can't wait to make another in a different set of colors. (This is currently being worked up in Peaches and Creme's Happy Go Lucky.) Takes up a fair amount of cotton yarn, but it's well worth it.<br />
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I'm on the fence about taking orders for Christmas at this point. I've got a commission to finish and my own gifts to work on (they're a little more complicated this year).<br />
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However, regular commissions are still open. I'm more than happy to make something without a tight deadline (like Christmas), so feel free to contact me if you have any questions or would like to order something.<br />
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No promises as to when I'll post again, but I do hope to post again when I'm finished with this dress and maybe even add a sneak peak of what I'm giving away for Christmas gifts to all the women in my family this year. (So maybe next month?) Going to aim for a Halloween/Fall themed pattern round up as well, seeing as it is that time of year.<br />
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Until next time, my dears! :DJulie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-71580960480215196882016-03-16T14:42:00.001-06:002016-03-16T17:53:21.823-06:00I've Been Gone for Far Too Long<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm sorry. I'm so, so sorry... I've been terrible. Been away for AGES and I am so sorry. I've been quite busy since my last post, and I haven't been able to dedicate the time I needed for this blog.</div>
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But, some good news is that since the last time I've posted, I have not only moved, but we have gained internet access since the move (which was nearly a year ago). So, I am hoping to get this started back up and upload lots of patterns for you guys.<br />
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That being said, I won't try and scramble around to find round-ups for March, but come April, I will be back in full swing and post plenty of things for you. In fact, later this month, I'll offer up one of my own patterns and share the link with you guys.<br />
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So, until next time, my dears, have a FANTASTIC day. :)</div>
Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-84749245056237689782014-12-13T10:45:00.001-06:002016-03-16T17:54:28.988-06:00I'm sorry. I'm so, so sorry.So, I've been utterly swamped this year, since it's my first year with a job. My advent calendar fell short of what I wanted it to be this year. It is currently day 13 of my calendar and I haven't even posted for days 11 or 12.<br />
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Due to this unplanned/poorly planned scheduling issue/not being prepared enough - I'm stopping the calendar. I'll find something for days 11 & 12 - to round it out, but I will not be continuing it further this year.<br />
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I did not plan correctly, didn't get information out soon enough, didn't work hard enough to get all 25 days filled. I will constantly be days behind schedule and I can't deal with the stress of "OH crap, I didn't get one for 'Day x' finished, let me panic and stay up all night trying to make something". I will have to do better for next year, starting now, otherwise this may be the last time I do this.<br />
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I will still post anything I have made this holiday season, however none will be assigned specific "days". This will hopefully allow me to make up for unfinished gifts and do about two weeks of work in the span of one.<br />
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I sincerely apologize and hope that you can understand. I will do better next year, if I decide to repeat this. Thank you for reading and your time.<br />
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<b><u>COMMISSIONS:</u></b><br />
These will reopen mid-January, if you are interested. Send me an email or drop a comment down below.<br />
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(bonus points to anyone who knows where the title came from)Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-18959564019266497442014-12-10T16:11:00.001-06:002014-12-10T16:11:21.375-06:00On the Tenth Day of Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Day 10 and these cuties finally arrived to their new home. My dear friend "Jazz" (the woman who I featured a few days back) ordered these for her two little boys.</div>
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Again, I have learned so much from making little stuffies like these. The blue/green one is a little thicker than the red/orange guy - stuffed him a little and it seemed to make his head a little more stable. I have also learned that hair is a pain in the butt sometimes. "J" has a slightly crooked face, but I think he looks heroic. "C" has the written mouth, while "J" has a mouth made similar to the stitch used for the eyes. (Can you guess which one I like better?)</div>
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They may have been a little difficult, but they are well worth it. I love them so much. I may make some next year for my nephews. I really hope Jazz's little boys love them as much as I do. These will forever go down in my book as a favorite pattern that I'm totally willing to repeat.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kBKZa_88q_Y/VIi_mq2nscI/AAAAAAAAIrk/6a6SJU2LZmE/s1600/Super%2BHeros.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kBKZa_88q_Y/VIi_mq2nscI/AAAAAAAAIrk/6a6SJU2LZmE/s1600/Super%2BHeros.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing guard over my yard - or at least until they move to their new home!</td></tr>
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The pattern can be found at RedHeart.com under the name <a href="http://www.redheart.com/free-patterns/boy-girl-super-heroes">Boy and Girl Super Heroes</a>. They're adorable and not as difficult as I had originally thought. And they actually work up rather quickly too, since the head and body are one single piece. The thing that took the longest was the cape, but even that wasn't too terrible. Learned so much about weaving in tails for these guys too.</div>
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I'd like to remind you that anything that you see within my blog I can make custom for you. And almost every pattern I find is available to you on the Free or Paid pattern pages at the top. Feel free to contact me or dive into the pattern pages! If you make something from any of those pattern, I'd love to see! I'll even give you a free feature just so that others can see the amazing work that you've done as well!</div>
Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-64551694759394990252014-12-09T11:00:00.000-06:002014-12-09T11:00:00.202-06:00On the Ninth Day of ChristmasDay 9 and it's another feature!!<br />
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This amazing woman I have known for several years as well, again through summer camp at Magic Sky.<br />
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Coral Gracey does a few things, such as sewing and knitting. Featured below are some of those photos - scarves, pillow cases, vests, and a knit tam. How awesome is this kind of stuff? These are pretty cool photos, and since I can't knit, I find it even more amazing.<br />
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The photo on the left here is a picture of a Tam Knit hat from her mom's chemo days. I think it's pretty nifty. I always like knit things, but am not skilled at all with those needles! The photo on the right is a photo of two of her knit infinity scarves. Don't they just look so soft and cuddly? I want to take one and curl up with it and pet it for hours!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cAc7F-uRJys/VIYINSeNrOI/AAAAAAAAIrM/VeRADPNhZzc/s1600/Pillow%2BCases.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cAc7F-uRJys/VIYINSeNrOI/AAAAAAAAIrM/VeRADPNhZzc/s1600/Pillow%2BCases.jpg" height="233" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pillow cases! Aren't these cute?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3TYHIYdnnkc/VIYIU3-q4LI/AAAAAAAAIrU/rEonleGK60o/s1600/Vests.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3TYHIYdnnkc/VIYIU3-q4LI/AAAAAAAAIrU/rEonleGK60o/s1600/Vests.jpg" height="272" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vests sewn for Grandma. These are just awesome.</td></tr>
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What she doesn't have photos of are dog bandannas and coats - but sadly her model wouldn't sit still long enough for her to get any photos. Maybe, if you email her, she can get you some photos of the work she does with that. I bet those are just darling too.<br />
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For your very own custom knitting and sewing, contact Coral at <a href="mailto:crgracey@live.com">crgracey@live.com</a>. She'll hook up with all sorts of neat stuff! Tell her I sent you by, so she knows where you came from! And it's all custom, 100% handmade stuff. You can't argue with amazing stuff like that. Seriously, I'm jealous of her knitting skills and sewing ability. I'm going to learn to sew one day, but I may never be able to make stuff like that.Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-27409801441214918502014-12-08T10:26:00.000-06:002014-12-08T10:26:47.990-06:00On the Eighth Day of ChristmasDay 8 and a sort of "repeat", if you will. The first day was about the little blue teddy for my youngest nephew, Michael. Well, today's photo is of the little green teddy I made for my oldest nephew, Keoni.<br />
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I really do love this little guy and may even make him again, but bigger! Wouldn't he just look adorable a bit bigger? Size comparison, he's a little longer than my 7.5in hand (from middle fingertip to wrist). He's wider than that, too, of course.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FPE9hTLTTZE/VIXP8YzvlhI/AAAAAAAAIqo/ITJK0i8vU34/s1600/Teddy%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FPE9hTLTTZE/VIXP8YzvlhI/AAAAAAAAIqo/ITJK0i8vU34/s1600/Teddy%2B2.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ain't he just the cutest?</td></tr>
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Remember that this pattern is from Lion Brand and is called <a href="http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/70704AD.html">Bear in a Jiff</a>. It is on the "Free Patterns" page, but you will need an account to be able to use Lion Brand's patterns.</div>
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Be sure to stop by Kota's CC on Facebook to like and share all of these photos! They'll be ongoing until December 25!</div>
Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-43825261416966607302014-12-07T12:03:00.002-06:002014-12-07T12:03:56.812-06:00On the Seventh Day of Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Day 7 - and look, it's a Sunday! </div>
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Many of you know that my mother was diagnosed with "Non-Specific Breast Cancer" back in early February. If not, I'll do a brief rundown. She's been a trooper since day 1. Never really let pity and doubt and worry nag at her. She had her brief "I have cancer" cry, but shrugged and said that it is what it is. She even refuses to let others pity her because of it. The only thing she could do was talk to her doctor about treatments and what they could do to fight back.</div>
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And fight back she did! Since February she has had chemotherapy and radiation and several surgeries. She had a double mastectomy (meaning she's lost the gals), but is looking forward to getting her new ones after she's finished with radiation. She even said she wanted them to be bright pink, but knows that's now how it works. </div>
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So, back to today's photo - she's lost some hair, thanks to chemo, but that's normal. She found a photo of an older woman who lost her hair to cancer as well and had knit herself some hair. After posting the photo to my page and a strong hint, I did some searching myself. And I found a cute pattern, pictured below. And of course, I've got to make it in different colors so that she can wear a different "wig" every day of the week!</div>
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I've made a blue one as well, but didn't grab a photo of it at Thanksgiving, which is when I had made it. She loves it, and that's all that matters to me. :) Makes me super happy.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She can be a natural blonde now!</td></tr>
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This paid pattern <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/funny-halloween-pink-wig-crochet-pattern">Funny Halloween Pink Wig Crochet Pattern</a> can be found at Ravelry, of course. It says it's a "Halloween" wig, but you could totally wear it at any point of the year! I may even make a wig for myself to wear this winter and surprise some of the students I sub for! Wouldn't that be fun?<br />
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If you make some "hair" for a friend or family member of your own, send me some photos! I'd love to see the crazy colors y'all come up with!Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-40165537129888118042014-12-06T14:05:00.000-06:002014-12-06T14:05:14.975-06:00On the Sixth Day of ChristmasAnd today is Day 6! Half way through the first 12 Days of Christmas!<br />
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One of these days I'll jump into a craft fair of some kind and sell lots of stuff! But until then, I'll just make random things and either save them or wear them myself. I've already lost one beanie I've made to my darlin' husband who just took it and began wearing it. Totally doesn't match is uniform (as a cop), but he doesn't care. He may be mad at me when I steal it back and stick some holly on it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holiday cheer guaranteed!</td></tr>
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This set, however, I got to keep for myself. Hadn't really planned on keeping it for myself, but it got super cold one evening and I had to go feed and water our dogs, and I needed something to at least keep my hands warm. So, I pulled out this magical little set and went about my merry business.<br />
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The hat is the usual "Hat Hugger" pattern (can be found on the page "Free Patterns") that I go to on a regular basis. I just did a couple of front post stitches and dc on the front to give it a different type of brim. It's a lovely hat, and that little bit of texture makes the whole thing.<br />
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The wristers are a new pattern that I found looking for something easy and simple. They can be found on Ravelry (for free!) and they're called <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/simple-wrist-warmers-4">Simple Wrist Warmers</a>. They really are simple. Silly simple. They work great with any of the foundation chains too, so you don't have to do that silly chain.<br />
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For the hands that they're on currently, I had to google hand templates for a while and found one I liked. I then printed them out (after a few hours of trying to get them <i>just right</i> on Word) on cardstock so they're a little more durable. I do have to remember to print out a right and a left next time (or maybe just two lefts) since I made two rights this time. Oops.Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-44699559837598902552014-12-06T12:54:00.000-06:002014-12-06T12:54:00.883-06:00On the Fifth Day of ChristmasDay 5! Moving right along! (Explanation for why this is late will follow down below)<br />
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So, I've been struggling with this beanie for a year, a YEAR. I wanted to make it for a friend last year, but I couldn't figure it out for the life of me. This year, however, a fellow crocheter on Facebook posted her troubles with this particular pattern in a group we're in. I figured I'd try and help her out, since I was stuck too. So we began to work "together" on it (separately, but sharing notes and issues via Messenger on FB).<br />
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And that's not where the troubles stopped. After I had completed the hat, I realized it would fit my niece better than my friend. Well, that wasn't in the plans. Okay, we'll try again. Tore it out, and discovered (thanks to my new buddy) that if you work the hat in one hook, and then go UP a hook size for the owls, it works out a whole heck of a lot better. I would probably even recommend going up a hook size than require for the hat and go up a hook size from that for the owls, but then again, I crochet a little tight.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ByRT2gnCNGs/VINLF80m2rI/AAAAAAAAIpU/ymjU7OGC1xU/s1600/Owl%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ByRT2gnCNGs/VINLF80m2rI/AAAAAAAAIpU/ymjU7OGC1xU/s1600/Owl%2BCollage.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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This pattern may have kicked my butt for a while, but I can say that I am happy with it and I now know how to work cables into my work. It was harder than I thought, but that's how you learn. I would be willing to make this again and again.<br />
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The pattern is called <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/its-a-hoot-an-owl-hat">It's a HOOT!</a> and can be found on Ravelry. I actually purchased my copy from her website, but Ravelry is always a good place to buy and get patterns. They'll automatically store your receipt so you don't have to worry about losing it. And you'll get to download any paid pattern you bought over and over if your computer crashes or something. I use <a href="http://dropbox.com/">Dropbox</a> to save all my stuff, so I'll never lose it.<br />
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This is late because I was working all day Friday and got home and just could not find this photo. I had one, but GOD BLESS was it horrible. Didn't show the color well at all. I will try to keep up with this the rest of the Advent Season, but I do have to work and get stuff made. You can help me out GREATLY by dropping by my Facebook page andJulie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-68021760415419937822014-12-04T10:30:00.000-06:002014-12-04T10:30:01.999-06:00On the Fourth Day of ChristmasDay 4 of the Advent Season<br />
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Today is about Angels and dishcloths. Even better - Angel Dishcloths in time for Christmas! This is a super cute pattern, and (depending on the yarn and hook you select) they come out in different sizes!<br />
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The big one by itself is made with Peaches and Creme's "Yuletide" and a size "K" (6.5mm) hook. It actually turned out rather nice. I really like it, maybe more than the other two.<br />
The smallest one (hard to tell, I know) is the one in the large photo, bottom left is made with Red Heart's Mistletoe and a size "H" (5.00mm) hook. The one on the bottom right is the same yarn, though with the "K" hook - and it's no where near the size of the one in cotton.<br />
The two smaller ones will probably be wall decorations, but I can actually use the largest one as a potholder or a dishcloth. Either way, it's really pretty. I love it!<br />
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The pattern can be found on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/">Ravelry </a>- <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/christmas-angel-dishcloth">Christmas Angel Dishcloth</a>. And it's a free pattern! I'll be sure to update it and put it on the Free Pattern page, so y'all can find it all year long. And, of course, you don't have to make this only at Christmas time. These in a solid would be good all year long.Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-58929432794481990042014-12-03T10:30:00.000-06:002014-12-03T20:36:09.005-06:00On the Third Day of Christmas<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Advent Day 3</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Today I am featuring a very special friend of mine. I met Nicole at Magic Sky Ranch in Colorado a few summers back and I have to say what a wonderful person she is. She's been dabbling in various things for a while, but I have to say her photography is simply amazing! I mean, look at all those happy, smiling faces! Can't you tell that she's just awesome at her job?</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-skKYtCPE3mY/VH53mPxPgJI/AAAAAAAAIoA/bDA2pnmnc0s/s1600/Kid1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-skKYtCPE3mY/VH53mPxPgJI/AAAAAAAAIoA/bDA2pnmnc0s/s1600/Kid1.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">You can find her on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nicolebradshawphotography">Facebook via Nicole Bradshaw Photography</a> or on her very own <a href="http://www.nicolebradshawphotography.com/">website - www.nicolebradshawphotography.com</a>. Tell her Dakota sent you!</span>Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-74297592416367742792014-12-02T15:54:00.001-06:002014-12-02T15:55:11.272-06:00On the Second Day of ChristmasFINALLY!! Here is Day 2 of my lovely Advent Calendar!<br />
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Day 2 brings us what I've made for my nieces this year. There is a purple one that matches this one, with a pink bow and nose of course, but I haven't gotten a snap shot of her yet. The skirt is just some lace I picked up at Wal-Mart and sewed it on. I thought it made the bunny cuter. I've even been told I should make a guy bunny with a little tux, give her a veil and look! A bunny wedding set! I may just have to try that.<br />
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The pattern for this is easily found on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/">Ravelry</a>. It is called "<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/bunny-janks">Bunny JÄNKS</a>". I would advise you sew the nose on before continuing with the body. I did this twice and I sewed the nose on afterwards both times. It was crazy. Also, I'd get some regular safety eyes (and maybe even a safety nose?) instead of the buttons I used. I mean, I adore this cute little thing, but I know what I would do differently now.</div>
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I have opened up spots, as many as I can, this year in hopes of getting more people who would like some free advertising. If you'd like to be featured this year in the Advent Calendar, stop by Kota's Crochet Creations on Facebook and send me a message. I'll let you know what I need from you or even just give you more information. I'm starting my free advertising tomorrow with a very special friend of mine, so be ready for it!</div>
Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-2903419777922677932014-12-01T12:00:00.000-06:002014-12-01T16:01:45.828-06:00On the First Day of ChristmasAnd here is the first day of my Crochet Advent Calendar 2014! Are you guys excited as I am?<br />
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I've mentioned a couple of times that I decided to give gifts to <i>all</i> of my nieces and nephews this year. Last year, I only got around to making one gift for the niece who lives with her grandparents (my in-laws), the purple cat scoodie. This year, I made each one of them a stuffed animal.<br />
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The boys got little teddy bears, Keoni in green, his favorite color, and Micheal got blue (since he's only 2 and can't make that kind of decision yet). I made a boo-boo when crocheting Keoni's only because I didn't use the same yarn I used to make Michael's to make Keoni's. Michael's is made from Bernat Baby Softee yarn and Keoni's is made of Red Heart Super Saver. Though, the scarves are made of BBS yarn, since I'm trying to use up some of my scraps.<br />
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They're adorable little bears that are super easy to make. For your own teddy bear, check out Lion Brand's <a href="http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/70704AD.html">Bear in a Jiff</a>. It's an adorable little bear and it is super easy to whip up. This was my first amigurumi and I can't believe how easy they were. I'm definitely not used to crocheting in what is basically a spiral, but it was easier than I thought it was. If you don't have good stitch markers (like me, oddly enough), a safety pin works marvelous. It's what I've been using for a while now. Cheap too.</div>
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Tomorrow you'll get to see what my nieces are getting for Christmas. :D I won't ruin the surprise because that won't be any fun. (Though, if you've been following my Facebook page, you may already know what they're getting. Don't spoil the fun for anyone else!)</div>
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Remember to spread the word about my Crochet Advent Calendar! I'm also going to be posting links to various other artists who crochet and create marvelous items and share their patterns with the whole of the internet.</div>
Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-23947339860223606182014-11-16T15:41:00.001-06:002014-11-16T15:41:34.743-06:00Want some FREE YARN?!Would you like a chance to win some free yarn? Who wouldn't, right? Well, head on over to this link (posted below) and enter for your chance to win some free yarn!<br />
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<a href="http://yarnforyear.happilyhooked.com/?ref=dac9f002b3" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://yarnforyear.happilyhooked.com/?ref=dac9f002b3</a><br />
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Did I mention you get a whole YEAR'S WORTH?! It's a supply for a year's worth of yarn, seriously, who wouldn't want that? I'm going to post this link a couple of times, so you won't miss it.<br />
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<a href="http://yarnforyear.happilyhooked.com/?ref=dac9f002b3" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://yarnforyear.happilyhooked.com/?ref=dac9f002b3</a><br />
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Also, it's free to enter. Heck, this is probably one of the easiest contests to enter. Your name and email and that's it, you're done. So, what are you waiting for?! Go enter for some free yarn!<br />
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<a href="http://yarnforyear.happilyhooked.com/?ref=dac9f002b3" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://yarnforyear.happilyhooked.com/?ref=dac9f002b3</a><br />
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Seriously, if you're still reading this, I'm a little amazed. Okay, so maybe you don't want the yarn for yourself. Maybe enter and give it to a friend. It'll make a wonderful Christmas present - or even a birthday gift. Come on, whatcha waiting for? Go enter!<br />
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<a href="http://yarnforyear.happilyhooked.com/?ref=dac9f002b3" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://yarnforyear.happilyhooked.com/?ref=dac9f002b3</a>Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-43570555667638627662014-11-13T11:29:00.000-06:002014-11-13T11:29:35.609-06:00A Sophisticated Lady<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I finally finished something! I've started about a hundred different projects and finished a handful - and of course most of those are going towards my Advent Calendar, so I can't show them to you yet. And, of course, I posted this all over my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KotasCrochetCreations">FB page</a> and my <a href="http://kotacrochetcreations.deviantart.com/">deviantArt page</a>, but forgot about my own blog! Goodness me!</div>
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I wanted to try something new with this particular item. I didn't want to take a photo of it in our messy room and try to crop out all the crap in the background, nor worry about which blanket should I use to get the best lighting - or how to get good lighting in my room period. So, I headed outside with my cowl and a styrofoam head and plopped down on the ground. The head just wasn't working: too low to the ground, the cowl wouldn't work right over the head, it looked like a muddy mess, and I was worried about having to clean all that grass and stuff off after I was done. Luckily, I remembered to let Lady out of the fence so she could go explore and say hi to the other dogs on the property (since we're living with the in-laws for a bit longer). After battling with the four puppies that roam around (they're the in-laws and on their way to a good home soon), I snagged Lady and made her sit for me. Of course the puppies wanted in too, but I didn't really need them.</div>
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Pictured below is my darlin' GSD Lady - also know as Lady-Bug due to the "spots" that she has on her back - modeling <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/the-sequin-turtle">The Sequin Turtle's</a> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/hooded-crochet-infinity-scarf">Hooded Crochet Infinity Scarf</a>. She's a darling dog whom I love to death (her and her parents).</div>
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It didn't take me too long to get her to sit and stay, the latter being the harder of the two for her to follow, and snapped a few shots - including puppies too. And when I finished, I was super excited how this photo turned out! The barn, the angle, the trees - it's all perfect! I am super proud of myself and I really hope y'all enjoy it as well.<div>
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I'll add this pattern to my patterns list at the top of the page for easy reference. Thanks for stopping by! </div>
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(Side note - my husband and I are moving soon and I may not get to post anything else I make between now and December. I'll try and get something up if I can, if not feel free to follow Kota's Crochet Creations on Facebook. I keep that pretty up to date via my phone.)<br /><div>
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BONUS PHOTO TIME!</h2>
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She's not overly fond of the puppies in her personal bubble. And that little pup tried to get in there several times before I could snap the photo of her above. Crazy little tykes!</div>
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Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-443176522262657582014-10-26T11:58:00.001-06:002014-10-26T11:58:21.089-06:00A Round-Up for Today!<div style="text-align: left;">
Since I had nothing to post (or rather, nothing I'd want to post just yet, saving as much as I can for my Advent Calendar this upcoming December), I figured I'd start posting Round-Ups for you. While I haven't gotten time to make my own round-ups yet (something I may do in the future on Saturdays, instead of posting these), I have found tons of these all over Facebook and the blogs I read.</div>
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This one is an awesome set of 50 Patterns that Fiber Flux has found - and each one of them uses buttons! Lots and lots of buttons!</div>
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You can check out this marvelous round-up here: http://www.fiberfluxblog.com/2014/10/buttons-50-free-crochet-patterns.html</div>
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Be sure to drop by her Facebook page too and give it a "Like".</div>
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I'm getting ready for my annual Crochet Advent Calendar - looking for people to add to my list to give free advertising during those 25 days. I'm getting all my Christmas presents finished and starting my list for Christmas commissions. (Which I'm taking orders until Thanksgiving; after that, I won't have time. The cut off may be sooner if I get too much on my list and feel like I won't have enough time.) So, stop by Kota's CC on Facebook and put an order in today!</div>
Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-2488066791239518842014-10-17T19:20:00.001-05:002014-10-17T19:25:27.001-05:00I'm Horrible - So Have Some UpdatesI haven't posted in so long, I know. I've been up and down and working (Substitute Teacher in San Angelo Independent District, so that's several schools that I can go and sub at. It's fantastic!) and a bit sick. Oh, and my husband has a job now (starts on the Oct. 20), so life will be a little more crazy in the coming weeks (or month).<br />
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If you'd like to check out some patterns, I'm doing a whole months worth of round-ups and free pattern offers on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KotasCrochetCreations">Facebook Page: Kota's Crochet Creations</a>. I've got several round-ups and a few free pattern offers (though they have most likely expired by now).<br />
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I have gotten my PayPal account up and working, or at least I think I do, so I can now accept payment through PayPal. Huzzah!<br />
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I am working on my Advent Calendar for this year. I've gotten a handful of things done, though I am in dire need of things to make for it. Oops... Kinda slacking on it. So much for trying to get a head start on it. Got my first Christmas order of the year, so that's great. Speaking of...<br />
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I am taking orders up until Thanksgiving of this year. Sooner if I feel like I'm overwhelmed and may not finish all of them in time.<br />
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I'll post a photo of what I've done this month in a few days, just to prove that I'm still crocheting, though I'm terrible at posting. Thank you all who have stuck with me and even glanced at my blog. I'm trying hard to keep up with it and my new crazy life. I'll try and post at least once a week, on Saturdays, if nothing else. I greatly appreciate everyone who has stayed with me and will continue to do so!<br />
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Keep Hookin' y'all!<br />
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A little donation button for me, if you feel like it. To all who do, thank you very much. I greatly appreciate it.</div>
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Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-13221065577528546562014-09-07T13:23:00.001-05:002014-09-07T13:27:48.772-05:00Been A While, Huh?So, I've been terrible at posting lately. I haven't for months, in fact, and that's not good for me. Or for y'all, since I know you enjoy seeing all the things I've made. So, over the next few days (with a couple days in between), I'll be posting everything I've been working on for the last few months. It won't be a lot, sadly, because I've been working - subbing actually - so my crochet/crafty time has been narrowed a bit. I'm saving up for my new cellphone bill, student loans, and a chance to finish up my schooling.<br />
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This is the beach bag I started on my trip to Corpus Christi for a stay at a friend's condo next to the beach and a trip to the Lexington and Texas State Aquarium. It's a pretty wide base, bigger than I thought it'd be, but I'm not fond of the handles. If I do this bag again, I may make one large handle to go over the shoulder. Or at least make both handles longer to go over the shoulder. Or something. I'll let ya know.</div>
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The link to this pattern can be found in the <a href="http://kotascrochetcreations.blogspot.com/p/testing.html">Free Patterns</a> page, found above!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beach bag finished! Going to do the handles differently next time...</td></tr>
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So, since there are lots of patterns out there in the great wide web, here's something you might enjoy:<br />
A special treat for y'all today too. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ThePerfectKnotCrochet">The Perfect Knot</a> is having a bit of a birthday bash today and is offering a free pattern from <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/">Raverly</a>. I've already gotten mine, so make sure to get yours. It's only valid for today and ends at midnight (PDT)!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To get your pattern, type "Birthday38" in the coupon box!</td></tr>
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Until next time, my dear readers! </div>
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Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-80939498425321682502014-06-28T17:47:00.000-05:002014-06-28T17:47:38.685-05:00Fun things today!Today is my niece's birthday. I do believe Sakura is turning 10 (?) today (but I'm really not sure. Only been in this family for a little over a year officially, and have known my niece for two years now, so I'm not sure).<div>
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Any how...</div>
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I've decided to make something for her this year. I found a few headband patterns which all call for cotton thread, which (of course) I don't have. I did, however, substitute it with some baby yarn I still have lying around (in "Antique White" by Bernat Baby). I think it worked out pretty well, don't you? It worked a little bigger than one with thread, but that's not bad. I like this yarn very much. It's much easier to wash, if needed too. Awesome all in one.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UPz_IbXZJNg/U68ocRcoq9I/AAAAAAAAHCg/PP_6qYbHIL0/s1600/2014-06-28+15.12.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UPz_IbXZJNg/U68ocRcoq9I/AAAAAAAAHCg/PP_6qYbHIL0/s1600/2014-06-28+15.12.37.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't mind the tail, I hadn't tucked and trimmed yet.</td></tr>
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The pattern I used is called <a href="http://www.mandipidy.com/2011/04/yarn-it-all-tutorial-15-mandyband.html">MandyBand</a>, written by Mandy England, who created both the flower and headband all by herself. How awesome is that? The flower, by itself, is very cute and had a multitude of uses. I may even use it again for something else. The pattern is a bit interesting to read, as she doesn't read patterns and doesn't write them the way I'm used to seeing them. However, she has included photos of every step, so it's extremely easy to follow.</div>
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I've also included some yarn, a handful of hooks, and a "I taught myself to Crochet" book in her bag. She really wants to learn how to crochet, so I figured, why not try and teach her this year. I've learned more within the last year than I knew last year and am sure that I can teach my niece how to crochet.</div>
Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-37650419631660477962014-06-25T22:18:00.001-05:002014-06-25T22:18:35.618-05:00Wow... I'm finally finishedIt's been a long time coming, but here it is...<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Je72octNASg/UEY4X6CLKHI/AAAAAAAAAVU/ybX7UY9nInw/s1600/blanket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Je72octNASg/UEY4X6CLKHI/AAAAAAAAAVU/ybX7UY9nInw/s1600/blanket.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo taken 9-4-2012</td></tr>
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I don't know if y'all remember this blanket from September 4, 2012, but I finally finished it. It's officially done. It's taken my just a tad under two years to finally get this silly thing done. It's 100 rows exactly and that's 25 more than the pattern called for, but I don't care. Fits me just fine.<div>
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This, two years ago, was going to be my very first lapghan (lap afghan), but fate intervened and my youngest nephew got his blanket before I got this finished. I've been trying for a while to actually make an afghan, but I was always intimidated by them. They take lots of yarn and lots of time and excuse after excuse. Finally after I realized that I have so many skeins of this variegated yarn laying around, I finally searched through Red Heart's many afghan and blanket patterns, this seemed easiest and quickest. (Boy, do I feel silly for thinking that.)</div>
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In reality, this is a really easy pattern and the color changes the pattern calls for are simple. Especially if you follow a few of <a href="http://www.mooglyblog.com/category/video-tutorials/">Moogly.blog's video tutorials</a> or <a href="http://www.mooglyblog.com/category/photo-tutorial/">Moogly.blog's photo tutorials</a>. Actually, now that I look at my photos, I love the way it sort of stripes itself. That's nifty. (If you're struggling to tell, the top photo is almost the entire afghan, the second is a closer photo, and the third is an extreme close up of the coloring/ripple.)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DBKg88MEoNc/U6uK4gUfr9I/AAAAAAAAHBI/_UpPBiJloAo/s1600/Blanket1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DBKg88MEoNc/U6uK4gUfr9I/AAAAAAAAHBI/_UpPBiJloAo/s1600/Blanket1.jpg" height="252" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">100 rows exactly and a lovely variegated yarn.</td></tr>
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The pattern I used is Red Heart's <a href="http://www.redheart.com/free-patterns/windsor-ripple-throw">Windsor Ripple Throw</a> in Red Heart's Mexicana. Super easy, super fun. Now that I still have a ball of this yarn left, I'll probably make headbands or something for my nieces, or even coasters for all the glasses we use. Plenty of uses for Red Heart yarn in these colors. :D</div>
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Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-80558741323429391722014-06-17T21:31:00.000-05:002014-06-17T21:31:01.703-05:00Lookie lookie, I got visitors!Well, not many here, but on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KotasCrochetCreations?ref_type=bookmark">Kota's Crochet Creations</a> (the FB page). A bunch of new likes today alone! All thanks to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/snappytots">SnApPy ToTs</a> and their decision to spread the love around! I'm inclined to share, of course, so if you're seeing this and have a Facebook page business (of any kind, not just crochet) that you'd like me to "like", drop a comment either here or on my page and I'll definitely send a like your way!<br />
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In other news:<br />
I've started making Christmas gifts already! I'm making teddy bears for my nephews and these bunnies (pictured below) for my nieces. Of course this is the tip of the ice burg as I plan on making a few more gifts as well. Got to get busy and play less video games, watch less t.v. and stop being an over-all slacker!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://apuuga.blogspot.com/2013/10/bunny-janks.html">Bunnies for the gals</a></td></tr>
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Nah, I kid! I have a lot going on right now, but I'll get back to posting stuff that I've made soon. Plus, I've been making updates to my blog, like the new pages on the top of the page! Check them out!<div>
Want to take a look at a pattern that I posted, but can't remember what it's called? I now have a working "Patterns Page"! I have all the patterns I've used since the beginning of this blog posted on the <a href="http://kotascrochetcreations.blogspot.com/p/testing.html">Free Patterns</a> page, which can be found at the top of the page! It's new and updated and full of free patterns, listed A-Z. If you find any broken links, have any questions, think I missed a pattern, feel free to let me know and I'll address the issue as needed. (Be kind and take a look? I spent a couple hours on it, just for you guys!)</div>
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There is also a Paid Patterns link at the top, in case you're wondering where I got all those patterns that aren't free. I've even posted the patterns I'm selling, should you be interested. If you don't see a pattern on either of these pages, but saw it in my blog, let me know. It may be a pattern that doesn't have a link or I just haven't written/posted it yet. If the latter is the case, give me a bit of time and I'll post the pattern up. I'll try and keep most of the patterns I write free, but don't be alarmed if I do charge. I promise it won't be much for any of them.</div>
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Thanks for all those who stopped by who were new. It's fantastic to see new faces around here! Hope you enjoy your stay and look forward to seeing lots of new stuff from me between now and Christmas! I'll be doing my Christmas Crochet Advent Calendar again, so keep that in mind should you like to be featured! (Check out December of 2013 for more information on that!)</div>
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Until next time friends, new and old!</div>
Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-11629870586726377762014-06-04T19:07:00.000-05:002014-06-04T19:07:33.747-05:00Busy Little Bee!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've been busy for a bit: working on the blue blanket from my last post, my husband's belt, our massive King sized blanket, and various other Works in Progress. I really should sit down and finish one thing before I start another, though I do like making things that work up fast so that I can take them with me while traveling around town (since I've been busy finishing up becoming a married woman!).</div>
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Like these ADORABLE little scrubbies. Okay, first things first... My husband, my darling husband, has let me buy more yarn that I need this past week, offering me his wallet TWICE to go and get more. So, thanks to his generosity, I have been able to get some 100% cotton yarn (Peaches and Creme, some great stuff) and I had no ideal what to use with it.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AmGb-wWOtnA/U4-m4UEmv7I/AAAAAAAAGqw/6mWT0U5cyXI/s1600/PICT0090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AmGb-wWOtnA/U4-m4UEmv7I/AAAAAAAAGqw/6mWT0U5cyXI/s1600/PICT0090.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l2-CfXZhPgI/U4-m20m9pfI/AAAAAAAAGqo/LQzUe808kfU/s1600/PICT0100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l2-CfXZhPgI/U4-m20m9pfI/AAAAAAAAGqo/LQzUe808kfU/s1600/PICT0100.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
The first yarn I got was <a href="http://www.peachesandcreme.com/yarns/cones/hippi">"Hippi" by Peaches and Creme</a>. I love the colors on this one, it's really pretty. The next one I got was Yuletide (and I have a couple of balls of them), that I'm going to hold off making until I go on my trip next month (gives me something to do). Those will be Christmas gifts. The next ball I got was "Stars and Stripes". It wasn't quite what I expected, though I do kinda like the Texas flag look to it (yeah, it's upside down in the photo, but I was tying to capture the colors, which took a while). Beautiful, isn't it?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wxgGCViemfs/U4-o01wgIQI/AAAAAAAAGtM/9epaHikWg9w/s1600/Scrubbies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wxgGCViemfs/U4-o01wgIQI/AAAAAAAAGtM/9epaHikWg9w/s1600/Scrubbies.jpg" height="208" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Psychedelic by Peaches and Creme: two tones, one scrubbie!</td></tr>
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My next purchase was "Psychedelic". I really like this yarn, since it gives two different color sets in one little scrubbie. Same with "Hippi", though this one is so much more colorful and bright! I really can't help but love these things. They're perfect for washing your face or yourself. Heck, they might even be good for dishes, though I'd like something with a little more texture/a rougher feeling to it for my dishes,so I'm going to try to make some with an old loofah with acrylic yarn (like Red Heart) for dishes and what-not. And if that doesn't work quite the way I want, I'm going to try to tulle with the acrylic yarn (since those are all over the internet). <br />
If you want to make your very own scrubbies, stop by <a href="http://crochetpatternsonly.blogspot.com/2005_05_16_crochetpatternsonly_archive.html">crochetpatternsonly.blogspot.com</a> and check it out. There is also a YouTube video by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J84jxmGMV5Y">Naztazia</a> who tells you how to put them together (which the website doesn't explain 100% clearly). There are even sites out there to tell you how to switch the colors to make striped scrubbies.Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-49387148430108322412014-05-24T20:23:00.000-05:002014-05-24T20:23:15.591-05:00Updates and What-Not Well, I never did get my Mother's Day gift finished, mostly because it's harder than I thought it would be. Bah, no worries though, I'll get it finished and post it up for y'all to see. Man, I really need to work on my WIPs. I have <i style="font-weight: bold;">way too many</i> for my own good. I'll get around to finishing them all one day! Hoping to get that massive Black Light blanket by Christmas, or even sooner if we move out (since I probably won't have much else to do but crochet!). I'll get that pile of stuff down and done soon enough. Until then, I'll keep working on a little bit of everything!<br />
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So, because I like to make a massive pile of work for myself, I've taken on another project at the puppy dog eyes of my darlin' husband. It's a Corner to Corner blanket (much like the BL blanket and the one I made for my nephew), though this time, it's made with Lion Brand's "Homespun" yarn instead of something nice. While I love this yarn, it can be a pain, splitting and threads catching on the hook. It looks real pretty and boy is it soft and warm! It'll be his own personal couch/sick blanket, so he'll stop stealing mine! (I love him any way!) I'm farther than the photo below, but I haven't had time to dig out my camera to take a new picture. Perhaps next week, since it should be finished by then (even if I wanted it to be done by tomorrow, since it's our anniversary [the 25th], but that may not happen).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oxb5LWSf10w/U4E5O-ofjNI/AAAAAAAAGb8/pHSLl8tsvqY/s1600/PICT0071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oxb5LWSf10w/U4E5O-ofjNI/AAAAAAAAGb8/pHSLl8tsvqY/s1600/PICT0071.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My newest C2C project, for my husband of course.</td></tr>
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Been searching for more ideals, which is a bad thing, I know. I've got so much stuff to finish now, but I can't help it! Plus, it does help me search for Christmas gift ideals (shush, I know it's only May, but I have quite a few to make this year!), which is always helpful. Like that photo below. With my husband completing the Police Academy and in search of his own job through the Police Force, I just laughed. How perfect? And maybe good for the bedroom, ya know, if you're into that sort of thing. I totally want to try to make a pair.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q4Q-IKJySmU/U4E49GP6jEI/AAAAAAAAGb0/3DCQMl9f08Q/s1600/hairtie+cuffs+crocheted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q4Q-IKJySmU/U4E49GP6jEI/AAAAAAAAGb0/3DCQMl9f08Q/s1600/hairtie+cuffs+crocheted.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect for that police officer in your life, or maybe good for the bedroom?</td></tr>
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Speaking of Christmas gifts, if anyone who reads this blog has a good pattern for teddy bears, I'd love to know! I want to make a couple for my nieces and nephews for Christmas this year, so I have something to give to all of them. (Sadly, two of them live in Pennsylvania, but I won't get into that.) They'd love them, and I'd love to make them something special. Or bunnies for the girls and bears for the boys? Hmm, I'll definitely have to think about it!Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-49587608701840689262014-05-09T10:19:00.000-05:002014-05-09T10:19:31.344-05:00Blanket Finished and GraduatingReal creative title there, huh? Can't blame me too much, been a bit busy with my final week of school. But, more on that in a bit.<br />
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So, y'all remember that blanket I started working on at the end of April? Well, I finished it and I can say that I am really proud of myself. I haven't actually had to sew anything together before (as in squares, rows, etc.), so it was a bit of a terrifying task for me. However, I pushed through and look at that!<br />
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It wasn't as hard as I thought it would be, which is always a good thing, and the rows went together really well. I also found a matching yarn (Baby Baby from Bernat Baby Softee) for the border, since it had all of the matching colors of the animals, and the customer gave the okay. (Yeah, I know, I forgot to take a better picture of the border, ugh!) It actually came out marvelously. And the customer loved it, ensuring me that her niece (who is having the baby) would love it too. I'm just glad everyone will like it.<br />
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So, tomorrow (May 10th), I graduate from Angelo State University with a Bachelor's in English with a Specialization in Creative Writing. I am utterly excited. This has been six years in the making, and had to change majors once (from Eng Ed to just Eng). But, just because I'm graduating, doesn't mean I done with school. I'll be finishing my studies online through "Texas Teachers: Alternative Certification", where I will be finishing my original major to become a High School English Teacher. I am so excited! (And a bit nervous.) Finally, made it through college and onward towards my new career!<br />
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Information about what I'm doing for Mother's Day will come on Monday. I finally figured something out for Mother's Day, and I'm excited! Trying something new this year, and even something new in general. First time using thread instead of yarn. Woo!Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6644316331650405622.post-89942211723665012832014-04-30T20:27:00.000-05:002014-04-30T20:27:43.603-05:00I'm Still Here<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Well, it looks like I've been missing out on posting again. Geez, school is annoying sometime, right? Well, lucky for me, it's almost over (sorta). I finally graduate from Angelo State University this year, May 10th, and will have a Bachelor's Degree in English, Specializing in Creative Writing (currently Poetry). And, within the next few months, I will be signing up for classes through Texas Teachers, for my Alternative Certification. I'm so excited about that! I'll be on probation, but still getting all the benefits of a regular teacher.</div>
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So, what have I been doing since March? Well, to be honest, not a whole lot. I'm still working on my husband's belt for his own choice of study. Did I mention he's in the Police Academy? If not, now you know. I am really excited about it, it's my first time using a nylon thread and, even though it hurts my fingers to crochet so tight and small, it's actually turning out really nicely. I may even have a few orders of these if my husband's classmates like his. (I'm hoping to get it done before his graduation, on the 16th of May. Wish me luck!)</div>
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I am also working on that very large Black Light blanket that I started a few months back. It's coming along quite nicely, though I may go back and work some color in there, like white and maybe even some black. It's wide enough now for a lapghan, but hubby won't let me stop there. Got to make it big enough for him and I to share on our not-yet-existent king sized bed. I may or may not get it that big, after all, it's bigger than I had thought and it's quite a challenge (It is my second afghan of any size and I didn't realize that they were quite popular. I may have to learn to crochet faster if they become a staple order!)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4FM2M3xmHVw/U2GOaFtaIzI/AAAAAAAACK8/0-HAGkGRMFs/s1600/2014-04-22+15.52.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4FM2M3xmHVw/U2GOaFtaIzI/AAAAAAAACK8/0-HAGkGRMFs/s1600/2014-04-22+15.52.11.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KF8ir362MzQ/U2GOewj5wdI/AAAAAAAACLM/i0j2S8QGeoQ/s1600/2014-04-22+15.54.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KF8ir362MzQ/U2GOewj5wdI/AAAAAAAACLM/i0j2S8QGeoQ/s1600/2014-04-22+15.54.10.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></div>
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Down below is an order that I am currently working on (I have more than this finished, but it's not photographed). A marvelous lady contacted me via my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KotasCrochetCreations">Facebook page</a>, asking me if I could finish a blanket for her. Of course I said yes, and all I have to do it sew the rows together and then create a nice border. Simple and easy. Now, if I could only concentrate on that instead of freaking out about my Poetry final.</div>
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Ain't it just the cutest? If I remember correctly, this was supposed to be a blanket for the customer's daughter, but it never got finished (hence the name and date in the middle). However, there is another baby on the way, and she would love to give this blanket to that child. How could I say no to that?! I couldn't.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c8nepUx1hxE/U2GOdWeiwtI/AAAAAAAACLE/KwU6Q4iHHvk/s1600/2014-04-22+15.49.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c8nepUx1hxE/U2GOdWeiwtI/AAAAAAAACLE/KwU6Q4iHHvk/s1600/2014-04-22+15.49.18.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a> </div>
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I wish I could say I had something planned for Mother's Day, but sadly, I do not. I'm a little busy with school and graduation (and Mother's Day is the day after I graduate), so nothing this year. Our one year anniversary is also coming up. I'm super excited about that too. I love my husband dearly, so this is fantastic for us! </div>
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The next thing I post will probably be about my graduation (or the blanket, since it shouldn't take me too long to finish, I just have to get on it). Look for me in my cap and gown, all prettied up for my big day!</div>
Julie "Dakota"http://www.blogger.com/profile/05602493896305060944noreply@blogger.com0