Fire Truck Applique by The Perfect Knot

As with all true professionals in many walks of life, they strive to grow and improve upon things like technique, skills and communication. Reputable crochet pattern designers are no exception.

Michelle from The Perfect Knot decided that her fire truck needed an update. When a designer does this, I have even more respect for them that what I initially had. To me, this shows that they really care about their customers, they’re committed to their art and the feel a responsibility to continue to improve upon something they have already put out there. I think that really shows the human side of things (before I started pattern testing and getting to know designers, I thought they were a super-human species above us mere yarn-loving mortals, unapproachable and up on a pedestal. How wrong I was! I think there’s going to be a post somewhere about that at a later date… LOL)

So after Michelle did some tweaking and refining of the pattern, here are my results:

I think that turned out awesome! I’m very pleased with the results and that couldn’t happen without a great pattern!

You can purchase the fire truck applique pattern by clicking here. As mentioned on the listing, it is under revision (which how I came to do this test), but she will be sending out the revised version soon. If you already have a copy, be on the lookout for an update.

Crochet Pattern Review: Diagonal Weave Halter by Crafting Friends

Last week I finished testing the Diagonal Weave Halter by Crafting Friends.

Tutu option, size 6

I will be adding a tutu to this one as well. It’s a size 10

I am in LOVE with this texture! And when I added the tutu option to this pattern, my inner child just squealed. Kate has done a wonderful job explaining this stitch. There are also clear photos to help you through as well. Even though the instructions are very well-written, I would suggest this pattern to a more experienced stitcher. Her explanation of how to do the skirt is clear, yet leaves room for thinking outside the box. I used an H hook. The yarn I used was Sirdar Crofter Fair Isle Effect Chunky (NOTE:This yarn is NOT the kind of “chunky” that I would call chunky… I did a WPI test and it fell more into a worsted weight category). I really enjoyed this pattern.

I would certainly suggest this pattern to a friend.

These dresses will be available for purchase very soon at the Kinmount Artisans Marketplace

Crochet Pattern Review: Side Step Beanie or Newsboy by Crochet by Jennifer

I had the honour of testing Crochet by Jennifer’s latest pattern, the Side Step Beanie or Newsboy.

Once again, Jennifer delivers yet another well-written pattern. It may look complicated, but it really isn’t. If you don’t have a lot of experience (or this is your first time) with colour changes, this would be a great pattern to get you started. You can achieve some really amazing results just by changing the colour combinations. The yarns I used were Bernat Handicrafter and Village Yarn from Herrschners. I used a J/6mm hook as suggested in the pattern. ALWAYS check your gauge even though there is a suggested hook. I’m a tight stitcher and I matched gauge on this pattern.

This pattern includes sizes from preemie/doll all the way up to large adult. She also snuck in a newsboy option (after I finished my test!). For more colour inspiration and to purchase the pattern, click here.

I would most certainly recommend this pattern to a friend.