Long Time, New Update (and some new graphs)

I realize it's been a really, REALLY long time since I've posted an update.  Long story short, I've been plagued by a ton of computer problems for the better part of a year.  To make up for it, here are some new FREE sports graphs and a brand new EASIER way to find and download my graphs.  From now on I'll be hosting my sports graphs on Google Drive so just follow this link, click on the graph you want and download it.  Enjoy :)

Free Crochet Patterns for Baby

Here are my latest free crochet graphs. This week I'm posting a selection of adorable baby blanket and nursery decor patterns.  All of these patterns are designed to be made using the single crochet method, with one block equal to one stitch using a worsted weight yarn and size H hook.  Enjoy!

*If you would like to make the piano blanket with a different initial, just let me know and I can make one for you. I'm spend a few hours on each set of patterns to make sure they are easy to follow and look good and I am providing them all free of charge so please do not sell my patterns or the finished product.*

Floral Bright Baby Blanket

Child's Giraffe Pillow

Piano Baby Blanket

Teddy Bear Afghan

Valentine Bear Afghan

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More Free Sports Crochet Charts!

I recently finished up a few more sports teams logos to crochet into throws or stadium blankets. I have been concentrating on college teams that are important to my family and friends, but I can make any other team by request, or you can give it a try yourself. I also now have the option to make larger sized afghan charts instead of only smaller throws.
 
Once again, please only use these patterns for personal use.  If you attempt to sell the pattern or the finished products you are breaking the law.  These make excellent gifts, but it is not okay to profit monetarily from someone else's intellectual property.

As with my other sports logos, if you want the full size .jpg pattern, just email me and I will send it to you until I am able to have them hosted externally.

#1 Bowling Green State University 

This chart shouldn't be too complicated to follow. Use 4 colors of yarn to create this charming falcon logo.  I recommend making this throw longer by adding rows of the background color to the top and bottom and also adding a border of orange, brown, or both.





#2 The University of Georgia

Support your favorite SEC team with this simple G logo stadium blanket. Extend to whatever size you like by adding rows to the top and bottom, or to both sides, and then finish off by adding a bold red border. Go Dawgs!




#3 Michigan State Spartans

Clean lines and contrasting colors make this Spartans logo really stand out. Simply add three or four rows of white border and you have the perfect stadium blanket to fend off those chilly Michigan breezes.





#4 Miami University (OH) 

Love and Honor to Miami! The original and best Miami, that is.  Show your school spirit with this striking throw. All it needs is a few more rows of white around each side and then a red and black border and this blanket is ready for the football stadium or dorm room.





Keep an eye out for more patterns as I will be updating regularly. Remember, email me if you would like these charts and you can always make your own at:
http://stitchboard.com/pages/pattern/freePatternWizard.php

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Crochet Graph-ghans

Bear Chart

My latest hobby is crochet. I find that it really helps me de-stress and focus in the evenings and I love being able to gift my family and friends with handmade hats, scarves, and blankets.  Lately I've been teaching myself how to crochet from a graph and it has most definitely been a lesson in patience! Crocheting from a graph allows for really beautiful intricate patterns to be worked into blankets, pillows, and more, but it is extremely time-consuming and you have to pay VERY close attention to your work.  I'm currently working on a few smaller pieces to join together into a throw, but I have grand plans to complete a few afghans this year as well.  What I love about crocheting from a graph is the incredible level of customization you can add. I found this website: http://www.stitchboard.com/pages/pattern/freePatternWizard.php where you can upload your own design/picture and almost instantly have it converted into a graph!

Deer Chart

Now, there are some things to keep in mind when planning a graph design:

1. Keep it simple to start with. Maybe choose a geometric border design for a small throw blanket so you can get the hang of it. 
2. Choose an image with a simple color scheme, and simplify the colors on the pattern maker. There is an option to choose custom colors and I recommend choosing the closest 2-4 colors depending on your design. 
3. If you use any of the patterns that I linked to, be aware that the coloring isn't perfect, especially on the Ohio State logo.  Use common sense and simplify the color scheme as needed. For this one in particular I was planning on a gray or white background, and then using one shade each of a green, a red, black, and brown. So 5 colors total.  
4. Be aware that the patterns are based on single-crochet stitches so they are fairly time consuming.  The best yarn to use is usually a worsted (4ply) or sport (3ply) weight yarn and a size G or H crochet hook.  
5. Be mindful of copyright infringement. If you're using someone else's design or a trademarked logo, please don't try to sell the pattern or finished product(!!!). This is illegal(!) and could get you in some serious trouble if you get caught.  
6. Have fun and don't be afraid to experiment! The only way to get better is by practice so start small and work your way up to larger projects. Soon you'll be able to make custom afghans and throws to gift your friends and family! 
7. If you would like either the Ohio State or IU pattern, please email me and I will send you the full size chart as a .jpg image. I will hopefully have them hosted somewhere in the future but for now I can only email them as attachments.