August Gnome: Cherries

*Radio crackle and static* We interrupt your Ocean baby blanket series to return to your previously scheduled series: A Year of Monthly Gnomes! (I am totally funny, right?)

August is a busy month in my household. We have a lot of birthdays! We will celebrate my husband’s birthday! đŸĨŗ Then a few days later my baby girl turns two! đŸĨŗ A week later is my first daughter’s 7th birthday! đŸĨŗ

And birthdays mean cake. And cake means ice cream. And ice cream should have cherries on top!

Plus, cherries scream SUMMER to me! August means hot, summer days around here.

I was worried this design isn’t busy enough. It is definitely less busy than last month’s design. But I hope you like the simplicity of it.

Each monthly gnome on Ravelry and all of the mosaic files in the eBook have been updated now to include a chart with X’s. If you purchased any of my patterns (not just these gnomes) on Etsy and would like an updated X-marked chart please send me an email!

This listing comes with two files: an interlocking crochet pattern and chart, and an overlay mosaic crochet pattern and X-marked chart.

“August Gnome” on Ravelry
“A Year of Gnomes” on Ravelry
“August Gnome” on Etsy
“A Year of Gnomes” on Etsy
Overlay Mosaic sample crocheted by CarolinevdB

Here’s our master list of Gnomes so far:

We are still continuing the Friends Around the World 6th Anniversary CAL: Adventure in Mosaic Crochet and I love seeing everyone’s projects! Even if you start late you can still join in! Make sure you join the Facebook group and event for all the new FATW6 releases every Monday and Thursday: https://www.facebook.com/calcrochetalong

When I finish with this Baby Ocean series I am hoping to have a new Crochet-A-Long as well! The “Summer Direction CAL” will have video walk thru’s for both techniques! I just finished the interlocking technique and I have only one more video to do for the mosaic one. And then I have to get my webpages set up for it all. And make sure my written pattern is ready. But first, in a few days, I will have the final pattern in the Baby Ocean and Others eBook – and it’s a special one for me, so keep your eyes peeled!

ashleebrotzell

Baby Whale: 5 of 6 patterns in the Baby Ocean & Others eBook

These ocean-themed baby blankets have been fun to design! I have finally decided upon six baby ocean patterns for the eBook on Ravelry. Would you like me to put the eBook on Etsy too once it’s complete?

This adorable whale started his life looking quite different but I am happy with the final outcome. My art leads me most of the time. At least this time it is still a whale! I gotta go with the flow, you know?

Sometimes I ask my husband for his opinion. Sometimes I ask a friend online. And sometimes I ignore everything they say.

I get a little defensive, “this is MY art, stop telling me what to do!”

But sometimes I listen when my husband says the eye needs to go back farther and maybe change the curve of his back? And, wouldn’t you know it, my artsy husband can even be right! (some of the time)

Sample crocheted by CynCityCrochets using the interlocking crochet technique. Her fun purple ombre yarn really adds to this design!

As always, my pattern is written for two techniques: interlocking crochet and overlay mosaic crochet. You get one file with written line-by-line instructions for locked filet mesh (that’s what I call interlocking crochet) and a one-page chart. The single-page chart is good for viewing on a screen because you can easily zoom in on the section you’re working on.

The other file has written line-by-line instructions for the overlay mosaic crochet technique and a multi-page chart with X’s showing where to do the drop-down double crochets. These charts are best used printed off and taped together. It can be confusing to scroll between the pages when you’re not sure which row to look at next.

This pattern, along with the others in my Baby Blankets section on Etsy and Ravelry all begin with 60 windows when you use the Locked Filet Mesh technique or 121 foundation single crochets for the overlay mosaic method.

These extra-large squares have been designed with the thought that if you join four together you could get a full 60″ blanket. I have a tutorial on YouTube for joining squares but this is only one of many ways you could do it.

Since this is not the first pattern in my Baby Ocean series, you should already know about the eBook on Ravelry called “Baby Ocean & Others“. It will be updated to include each of these ocean-themed baby blanket patterns as I publish them. And I have finally concluded that there will be a total of six (6) patterns in this eBook.

“Baby Ocean & Others” eBook on Ravelry

I have more than six Ocean-themed blankets but I have decided to create a new eBook next month with the designs that don’t really fit into the “baby” theme.

Get “Baby Whale” on Etsy or Ravelry. Use code, “BABY21” to get 20% off* all my baby blanket patterns!

“Baby Whale” on Ravelry
“Baby Whale” on Etsy

*20% discount is valid in my Etsy Shop on Preemie Love Blanket, Feline the Deer, Many Hugs, Baby Ocean, Baby Dolphin, Baby Crab, Baby Sea Turtle and Baby Whale; and in my Ravely store on Preemie Love Blanket, Feline the Deer, Many Hugs, Baby Ocean, Baby Dolphin, Baby Crab, Baby Sea Turtle, Baby Whale, and Baby Ocean & Others eBook. Code “BABY21” must be used at the time of purchase, and is not retroactive. Offer ends 11:59 pm CST July 31, 2021. OFFER EXTENDED TO AUGUST 10, 2021.

This offer will be extended to August 10, 2021 because I didn’t create the patterns fast enough! I have a 6th pattern to publish in this eBook. The final pattern has a special place in my heart – you’re going to love it! It should be ready for you in one week!

ashleebrotzell

Using Albums in a Facebook Group

I love my Facebook group, Ashlee Brotzell Designs.

I created it just over a year ago when I started designing crochet patterns. As a designer I suddenly wasn’t allowed to post in a lot of the groups I was in. It was, and still is, a bit of a sore spot. It makes me sad not being able to contribute to a conversation on a topic I love simply because I love it so much that I decided to create my own patterns.

So, now I have my own group where I can post everything I am working on. I also have a Facebook page and an instagram page and a ravelry group, but I am most active in the Facebook group.

Besides being a great place to see my newest patterns as they come out and sometimes see a sneak peak of things before they come out, it is also a great place to get advice on yarn choices or meet some new friends who love crocheting too!

I have created albums for most of my patterns so you can see a few color options and sometimes see the difference between the two techniques all my patterns are written for: interlocking crochet and overlay mosaic crochet.

But, it seems that these albums are not as easy to use as one would hope.

Mobile / Tablet

One issue is that the screens look different based on whether you are accessing the group on your desktop/laptop or on a mobile device like your smartphone or tablet.

This is is how I access the albums on my phone:

Choose, “More”, “View Group Info”, “Photos”, and then choose an album.

Choose the three dots, “More” and from the drop-down menu, choose “View Group Info”

Choose “Photos” (the number of photos in the group will probably keep increasing!)

Here are a list of albums! You have to scroll down and choose to load more if you want to see earlier designs. I find that slightly difficult on my phone actually. It is easier on the desktop.

When you choose an album you will see the description I have given the album and you may notice that the comments are all turned off but you can still add your own photos!

Comments are turned off on the albums, but you can click on an individual image and comment on that image. In the album description, I try to put the links to my blog post about each pattern and sometimes also the ravelry or etsy link. Those links can also be found in my blog post, so the information is kind of everywhere.

Desktop

The steps are basically the same on my laptop, but the screen looks a bit different. Also, your screen might be slightly different because you aren’t the admin so I am pretty sure I have some extra things that you can’t see.

Choose, “More” from the menu bar, then choose “Media” from the drop down menu. Select “Albums” instead of seeing all the photos at once, and then choose an album!

Choose “More” from the menu bar. It will have a drop down menu – choose “Media”. I tried to screenshot with the menu visible but I am apparently not that technologically advanced.

In “Media” you have the option of seeing all the photos or you can choose “Albums” to see some organization,

You may have to scroll down to see older designs. Some albums are bundled to include more than one design – for example, all of the gnomes are in one album.

Once you’ve selected an album you will see that comments are turned off but there’s a blue button that says “Add Photos/Videos”. Plus, if you click on a photo in an album you can leave a comment for the maker there!

I hope this helps! I sometimes forget to create an album for my new patterns, but eventually I get it done. *embarassed grin*

Remember, you can find a list of all my patterns here: ashleeslint.com/patterns

Most of my patterns are on Ravelry (a few of the Dr Who ones are not).

Some of my patterns are on Etsy (let me know if you need something on a non-ravelry platform).

And all of my social links are here: linktr.ee/LFMandMosaic

ashleebrotzell

FATW6 CAL: Adventures in Mosaic Crochet – Ocean Theme

Good morning, Monday!

It has been so great seeing all the new projects getting started since Thursday when my Mosaic Coral Strip was released as the first section in the Friends Around the World 6th Anniversary CAL (FATW6)!

Mondays and Thursdays will be the release days of a new section – and today is Monday! Remember, all the pieces in this Crochet-A-Long have been designed by different people. The common theme is mosaic crochet and then 3 blankets were compiled from the submissions!

Each section is FREE. Some designers, like me, have included videos. I believe all the sections include a chart and written instructions, but I guess we will have to wait and see if that’s true.

This blog post of mine is going to be where I keep a list of all the sections as they are released. You can bookmark it if you like! You can also sign up for updates from the host: CAL Crochet A Long Facebook group

Also, please feel free to share your progress on this CAL in my Ashlee Brotzell Designs Facebook group. Normally, I don’t allow work by other designers but since this is a group collaboration I am making an exception – I want to see your progress! 🙂

I will link to the official CAL blog entry and you will have to scroll through their post to find the link to that section’s pattern (some are Ravelry downloads, some are on websites; different designers have different ways of doing things).

Friends Around The World: Adventures in Mosaic Crochet – Ocean theme

July 8, 2021: Mosaic Coral Strip by Ashlee Brotzell

Since this is my section I will also link to my blog entry about it and the ravelry download. Plus, my handy-dandy video walk-thru: Coral Strip on YouTube

July 12: Sally Starfish by Lynette Kosar of Lavender Cup Cottage

Look for the link to the ravelry download near the end of the article I linked to above.

July 15: Mosaic Crab by Suzanne Lively Boren

This one also has a link to ravelry near the end of the article.

July 19: Dancing Octopus by Suzanne Lively Boren

Find the ravelry link at the end of the blog article!

July 22: Mosaic Squid by Suzanne Lively Boren of Not So Boren Crochet

Suzanne was busy! This is another section she did!

July 26: The Goldfish 1 by Svetlana Rogatykh

This goldfish section also includes a tiny border design you can use at any point in your design! And the goldfish is pretty awesome! The link the to ravelry download is at the end of the article I have linked to above.

July 29: The Goldfish 2 by Svetlana Rogatykh

Svetlana’s second pattern in this Crochet-A-Long is swimming the other direction! Her Ravelry link is going at the end of the post linked to above.

August 2: Wave 1 by Svetlana Rogatykh

Another beautiful section from Svetlana!

August 5: Dolphin by Suzanne Boren of Not so Boren Crochet

You must be familiar with this designer by now! The official blog post from CAL has a direct link to her download, no Ravelry this time.

ashleebrotzell

Blooming Owl Wall Hanging

My musical husband has a guitar strap on his classical wooden guitar with these floral motifs. Everytime I see it I think of an owl.

Obviously I couldn’t just draw it as it is, but I think I captured the idea of a flowery owl in my newest wall hanging: Blooming Owl.

My husband loves it!

I used fingering weight yarn. This is also called 4-ply or 8/4 depending on where you live. Craft Council lists it as a weight 1 – super fine and states it can also be called sock yarn.

The black yarn is “110 Jet Black” Scheepjes Catona. It is 100% mercerized cotton. The small balls are only 50 grams and have 125 metres of yarn. Scheepjes suggests a 2.5 – 3.5 mm needle (I believe that specifically refers to knitting needles). I used a 2.5 mm crochet hook.

I used a full 2 balls. There was barely anything left over (see photo below). So, make sure you match my gauge or grab an extra skein. If you’re going to grab an extra one you might as well grab two! 😉

The gold yarn is actually called “Copper” (oops, it is called “Ginger”). It is from SweetGeorgia Yarns’ Tough Love Sock Yarn line. We looked online at YarnCanada.ca and I gave Mitch a few options. He said this color was “it” and he didn’t care that it was also the most expensive.

It comes in a twisted hank of 115 grams which gives you 425 yards of soft, silky wool. I only used half the skein.

It cost me $3.65 CAD per ball of Catona, so $7.30 total (but I did buy a 3rd ball just in case). The Tough Love Sock yarn was $33.95 but I only used half, so it cost me about $17 for this project. It felt really expensive to buy the fancy color Mitch wanted but it was so worth it because this is just beautiful to look at.

It was my first time using my fancy yarn swift! It is fun having toys! This is one of the more expensive things I own (related to yarn crafts). I don’t usually buy yarn that comes twisted because it just gets all tangled up. This was easy to set up and I turned the hank into a cake in a few short minutes!

The “Tough Love Sock Yarn” is 80% merino wool with 20% polyamide. Because it is a hand-dyed yarn it gives my finished piece a sort of mottled look where the dying process created slightly different shades in the yarn.

Like all of my patterns, this pattern is written for my two favorite techniques: interlocking crochet and overlay mosaic crochet. You can choose to use your favorite method or you can try something new!

I used the mosaic method because I wanted the fringe on the bottom and I wanted to use the strings at the top to attach the wooden dowel. I created a short YouTube tutorial with some tricks for attaching the dowel.

YouTube tutorial: Adding a Dowel

If you use interlocking crochet for your project you can add fringe to the bottom and whipstitch the dowel to the top. Instructions are included in the PDF pattern.

Both techniques work the design starting at the top-right corner going down to the bottom-right corner. I designed it to sideways because of the mosaic fringe.

The PDF includes written line-by-line instructions for both techniques and two charts; one is marked with x’s for overlay mosaic crochet. I haven’t created a YouTube video on how to use the x-marked charts yet. I have only just started updating my patterns to include a marked chart.

The other chart can be used for both techniques and I have tutorials on YouTube for that!

YouTube: Read Interlocking Crochet Chart
YouTube: Read Chart Without X’s for Mosaic Crochet

Grab your copy of my “Blooming Owl Wall Hanging” on Etsy or Ravelry and get 15% off your entire cart*!

Etsy
Ravelry

*no code needed, offer ends 11:59 pm, CST, July 13, 2021.

Pin this! https://pin.it/6jorpDe

ashleebrotzell

FATW6: Mosaic Coral Strip

Introduction

This is a pattern for an overlay mosaic crochet strip that belongs in the Friends Around the World 6th Anniversary CAL (FATW6) “Adventures in Mosaic Crochet” hosted by CAL – Crochet A Long. Links to all past and future patterns can be found on their blog: https://calcrochetalong.com and you can join their facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/668646249929007/

My section (this Mosaic Coral Strip) can be found here on the blog (scroll down) or downloaded on Ravelry: https://ravel.me/mosaic-coral-strip

Download on Ravelry

You can also crochet with my YouTube video to guide you! Please note: the video does not show the foundation rows. You can add sections onto each other, but if this is your first section you must start with a foundation row; see my other YouTube tutorial on creating a Mosaic Foundation: https://youtu.be/RqgmJQMaB7A for more information.

When I first designed this piece I didn’t know I would be the first section in the blanket. That’s why my Coral video mentions that you will be joining to a project you already have. But I have created a video on crocheting the foundation rows now!

Quick Bio

I published my first pattern less than a year ago (April 1, 2020) and, honestly, that was a dream come true! My grandmother taught me to crochet when I was about 8 years old, and it has been a favorite hobby of mine in an on-again-off-again kind of way. I finished my first blanket in high school and created a few projects over the years to fit my needs (how about a bag that fits this book exactly and nothing else).

Three years ago, I picked up my hooks in earnest again as a coping method after the traumatic delivery of my son. Crocheting – and now, pattern designing, too – are therapy for me. I am so grateful to everyone who has supported me and made it a little easier to stay at home with my 3 beautiful children.

I was also able to achieve another dream of mine in April 2021: I got published in a magazine! My Eiffel Tower Wall Hanging can be found in Crochet Now! Magazine, issue 68. I feel a little famous now!

The Coral Strip

I love how wiggly and intricate coral can look. It is almost abstract enough that if you didn’t know it was called “Coral” you might just think it was random lines.

My single repeat used 30 g of yarn (Medium 4 – worsted weight, acrylic). I used Caron Kindness in Tomato and Robin’s Egg Blue because it was what I had on hand. Unfortunately, this is a discontinued yarn. You can use any yarn medium (4) weight yarn. If you’d like some suggestions, try Yarnsub.com for a list of similar yarns.

Like the other patterns in this CAL, each repeat is 48 stitches wide. An extra stitch is added at the beginning of each row, and two extra stitches are added to the end. Each designer may have different ways of explaining things but all the pieces in this CAL are designed to work together!

My chart does not show those extra 3 stitches (the joining stitch, balancing stitch, and end stitch), it only shows the repeated section.

Chart is included in the ravelry download

If you share your works on Instagram, I would love for you to tag me: @AshleesLint

YouTube

I created a YouTube video to go with this pattern! You can see each stitch being done and crochet with me! Please note: the Coral video does not show the foundation rows. You can add sections onto each other, but if this is your first section you must start with a foundation row.

Foundation Row YouTube Video

Don’t forget to like and subscribe to my YouTube channel!

Mosaic Coral Strip YouTube Video

Important Details

  • US crochet terminology
  • Chart is 48 x 19, add 1 extra stitch at the beginning of each row and 2 extra stitches at the end of each row. Repeat is 48 + 3 stitches wide.
  • 5 mm hook (H-8)
  • 18 g / 21 yards of Main Color (MC) = coral
  • 12 g / 30 yards of Contrasting Color (CC) = light blue
  • One repeat finishes at 10” x 4” / 26 x 10 cm
  • Gauge: 18 stitches x 18 rows = 4” / 10 cm

Key (US terminology)

MC = Main Color: coral in chart

CC = Contrasting Color: light blue in chart

ch = chain

SC = single crochet: insert hook, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through both loops on hook

sc = SC into Back Loop only

DC = double crochet: yarn over, insert hook, pull up a loop, *yarn over, pull through two loops* twice

dc = dropped double crochet: skip next single crochet, and instead double crochet into Front Loop of stitch in the row below

JS = Joining Stitch: create slip knot, insert hook under both loops, complete a normal single crochet

ES = End Stitch: single crochet under both loops, chain 1, cut yarn and pull through tightly

Mosaic Technique

Please see the YouTube tutorial for more details. I use a single-row mosaic technique. Each square on the chart corresponds to one stitch. There is an additional stitch (not visible on the chart) on each side of the chart for joining and ending (for this pattern only, add an extra balancing stitch at the end of each row before doing the “ES = end stitch”). You start at the bottom-right corner of the chart.

dc = the dropped DC goes into the same-colored stitch, 2 rows below, front loop only. Skip the (pink) single crochet behind this dc.
sc = a single crochet in the body of this pattern goes into the back loop only
  • The front of your work is always facing you (this is the right side, the side showing the design)
  • You are always working from the right to the left (opposite for left-handed crocheters)
  • You tie on a new yarn at the beginning of each row and cut it at the end
    • Tails don’t need to be longer than an inch and a half (unless you want to use them as fringe, like on scarf)
  • Yarn colors can be anything you like
    • They need to contrast well (try a black and white photo to see if they are too similar)
    • They need to be the same weight (size/thickness)
  • Odd-numbered rows use MC (coral), even-numbered rows use CC (light blue)

Optional “Locked Double Crochet”

To prevent the small flaps on the back of your work, consider locking-in your stitch.

Begin like a dropped double crochet: skip the next stitch, and work into the Front Loop of the stitch in the row below; yarn over, insert hook into front loop below (see first image below), pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through two loops, insert hook into back loop of skipped stitch (see second image below), yarn over and pull through all three loops on your hook.

Time to start crocheting!

(There was an error with this blog but it has been fixed! I am so sorry! And majorly embarrassed 🙈)

Row 1 can be your foundation row OR you can add it to another section.

Repeat between *’s as many times as required for your project.

Foundation Row:

Row 1 MC – Can use a chainless single crochet foundation or you can chain the desired number of stitches, plus one for turning chain. Turn, skip turning chain, single crochet into each chain.

Repeats of 48 +3 = desired number of stitches

For example, if you want to repeat the design twice: (48 x 2) + 3 = 99 sc needed (chain 99 + 1 = 100, skip 1 stitch, sc into the rest of the 99)

Or, if you want to repeat the design three times: (48 x 3) + 3 = 147 sc needed (chain 147 + 1 = 148, skip 1 stitch, sc into the rest of the 147)

OR when added to another project:

Repeat between *’s as many times as required for your project.

1 MC – JS, *sc48*, sc1, ES

2 CC – JS, *sc48,* sc1, ES

3 MC – JS, *sc5, dc3, sc3, (dc1, sc3) x2, dc3, sc3, dc1, sc3, dc1, sc1, dc3, sc3, dc1, sc3, dc3, sc3, dc1,* sc1, ES

4 CC – JS, *dc3, sc5, dc1, sc3, (dc1, sc5) x2, dc1, sc3, (dc1, sc1, dc1, sc5) x2, dc3, sc1,* sc1, ES

5 MC – JS, *sc3, dc1, sc1, dc3, sc1, (dc1, sc1) x2, dc1, sc3, dc1, sc1, dc3, sc1, (dc1, sc3) x2, dc3, sc1, dc1, sc3, dc1, sc1, dc3, sc3, dc1,* sc1, ES

6 CC – JS, *(dc1, sc3) x2, (dc1, sc1) x3, (dc1, sc3) x2, dc1, sc1, dc1, sc3, dc1, sc5, dc1, sc3, dc1, sc1, dc1, sc5, dc1, sc1,* sc1, ES

7 MC – JS, *sc1, (dc1, sc3, dc1, sc1) x2, dc1, sc5, dc1, sc1, (dc1, sc3) x2, (dc1, sc1) x2, (dc1, sc3) x2, (dc1, sc1) x2, dc1, sc2,* sc1, ES

8 CC – JS, *dc1, sc1, (dc1, sc3) x2, dc1, sc1, (dc1, sc3) x3, (dc1, sc1, dc1, sc3) x4,* sc1, ES

9 MC – JS, *sc3, dc1, sc1, dc1, sc3, dc1, sc5, (dc1, sc1, dc1, sc3) x2, dc1, sc3, (dc1, sc1) x2, dc1, sc3, dc1, sc1, dc1, sc5, dc1,* sc1, ES

10 CC – JS, *(dc1, sc3) x2, dc1, sc5, (dc1, sc1) x2, (dc1, sc3) x2, (dc1, sc1, dc1, sc3) x3, dc1, sc3,* sc1, ES

11 MC – JS, *(sc1, dc1) x2, sc3, (dc1, sc1) x2, (dc1, sc3) x2, dc1, sc5, dc1, sc3, (dc1, sc1, dc1, sc3) x2, (dc1, sc1) x2, dc1, sc2,* sc1, ES

12 CC – JS, *sc2, dc1, sc3, (dc1, sc1) x2, dc1, sc3, dc1, sc1, dc1, sc5, (dc1, sc3) x2, dc1, sc1, (dc1, sc3) x2, (dc1, sc1) x4,* sc1, ES

13 MC – JS, *sc3, dc1, sc1, dc1, sc3, (dc1, sc1) x2, dc1, sc3, (dc1, sc1) x6, dc1, sc3, dc1, sc5, (dc1, sc3) x2, dc1,* sc1, ES

14 CC – JS, *dc1, sc3, dc1, sc1, dc1, sc3, (dc1, sc1) x2, dc1, sc3, (dc1, sc1) x5, dc1, sc3, dc1, sc5, dc1, sc1, dc1, sc3, dc3, sc1,* sc1, ES

15 MC – JS, *sc1, dc1, sc3, dc1, sc1, (dc1, sc3) x5, (dc1, sc1) x2, dc1, sc5, dc1, sc1, dc1, sc8,* sc1, ES

16 CC – JS, *(dc1, sc1, dc1, sc3) x2, dc3, sc1, dc3, sc3, dc1, sc1, dc3, sc1, dc1, sc1, (dc1, sc3) x2, dc1, sc1, dc8,* sc1, ES

17 MC – JS, *sc3, dc1, sc1, dc1, sc3, dc1, sc11, dc1, sc7, dc1, sc3, dc1, sc1, dc1, sc12,* sc1, ES

18 CC – JS, *dc3, sc1, dc1, sc1, dc3, sc1, dc11, sc1, dc7, sc1, dc1, sc3, dc1, sc1, dc12,* sc1, ES

19 MC – JS, *sc31, dc1, sc16,* sc1, ES

20 CC – JS, *dc31, sc1, dc16,* sc1, ES

Trim the fringe, if needed.

Continue with the next FATW6 ocean-themed section!

ashleebrotzell1 Comment

Hobby Stencil Blanket

Not too long ago, I published a square called “Hobby Stencil 40“. This large square was like a puzzle piece. I made 4 of the squares and then joined them together to create a blanket with a full circle motif (although, there are definitely more ways to join them: you could even mix-and-match with other squares of that size.

I used interlocking crochet because the tails and envelope border with overlay mosaic crochet can get annoying. I like how I can get more colors into a blanket this way. I like colors!!

But, I really wanted this cool circle pattern to be more accessible. I know that a LOT of my fans prefer to use the overlay mosaic crochet technique.

So, this blanket is the full circle motif!

It is also handy for people who crochet with the interlocking technique and don’t want to join squares.

But, wait! There’s more!

If you’re familiar with my patterns, you know they always have the written instructions for interlocking crochet, a one-page chart, and then the written instructions for overlay mosaic crochet.

This pattern ALSO has a bonus file: the chart has X’s!!!

Natalie Caruso, a fellow designer, has generously offered to help me add X’s to my charts! I have a lot of patterns, so I’m not sure how long it will take me to update everything. I know you will all be patient while I work 😉

If you’ve already purchased the square you will get an automatic discount on your purchase of this blanket pattern (applies to Ravelry only). Or, you can add both of them to your cart right now to see the discount (buy the blanket and get the square free!).

Hobby Stencil Blanket on Ravelry
Hobby Stencil 40 on Ravelry
HObby Stencil Bundle on Ravelry

On Etsy, to help keep the fees down, I’ve bundled the Hobby Stencil square and blanket permanently.

Hobby Stencil Bundle on Etsy

ashleebrotzell

Une Autre Fleur

This is a 3rd companion to my Eiffel Tower Wall Hanging and my Fleur-De-Lis Wall Hanging. A friend found a beautiful design in her pillow and I tried to capture a piece of it here. She helped me name it too! If you don’t speak french, I will tell you it means “Another Flower”. The Fleur-De-Lis is a classic french image and although the image is a bit abstract the translation is a lily flower so this new wall hanging is simply another flower.

You may remember, my Eiffel Tower pattern has been published in Crochet Now! magazine. The rights will revert back to me in a few months and I will publish it to Ravelry and Etsy at that point. The sample in the image below was crocheted using the interlocking technique and only uses two colors (the original in the magazine is overlay mosaic and has 7 colors!).

The Eiffel Tower Wall Hanging – with just two colors

I have created an eBook Bundle for these three Parisian Wall Hangings. You can purchase the bundle now and it will be updated to include the Eiffel Tower at the end of August 2021. Updating is easier on Ravelry but if you don’t use Ravelry I have made it available on Etsy as well.

You can see in this image below that my tester used 2 wooden dowels for each wall hanging – you can do the same, or you can just put one at the top. I love seeing creativity and I always think of my patterns as guidelines or suggestions rather than strict rules. Make your project your own!

Bundle of 3 wall hangings: Eiffel Tower, Fleur-De-Lis, and Une Autre Fleur

On Ravelry: if you already purchased the Fleur-De-Lis Wall Hanging you will receive a retroactive discount on the eBook bundle – it happens automatically.

On Etsy: I have already contacted the individuals who purchased the Fleur-De-Lis

Une Autre Fleur on Etsy
Une Autre Fleur on Ravelry
Parisian Bundle on Etsy
Parisian Bundle on Ravelry

For “Une Autre Fleur Wall Hanging”:

You will receive one file containing:

  • the interlocking pattern (including instructions for adding fringe and attaching a dowel)
  • a one-page chart (101 x 109)
  • the overlay mosaic pattern (including instructions for an optional envelope border and attaching a dowel)

The Locked Filet Mesh (LFM) interlocking crochet method uses only chain spaces and double crochets to create a mesh; two colors are worked alternately which creates the pattern.

Mosaic crochet uses single crochet and double crochet stitches. The double crochet stitches cover some of the other color’s single crochet stitches to create the design. My patterns instruct you to cut your yarn at the end of each row. The back is striped but often gives a faint impression of the pattern on the front (sort of like illusion knitting). See an example here.

I have YouTube tutorials available for both crochet methods! Follow this link to get to my YouTube channel and find my other social links.

Important Details

  • Fingering Weight Yarn (500-520 yards)
  • Main Color (MC) – 250 yards (plus 20 yards for optional SC border when done in interlocking crochet)
  • Accent Color (AC) – 250 yards
  • Plus, extra for fringe
  • Crochet hook: 3 mm (C/2)
  • Stitch marker
  • Finishing Needle
  • Wooden Dowel: 1/2″ diameter, 21″ length
  • Interlocking Gauge: 13 dc stitches x 26 rows in one color = 4” square
  • Mosaic Gauge: 26 sc stitches x 26 rows = 4″ square
This sample shows a dowel on both the top and bottom of the piece – you can also use a single dowel for just the top if you prefer.

Šī¸ 2021 Ashlee Brotzell.
All rights reserved. This publication is protected under federal copyright laws. Reproduction or distribution, in whole or in part, in any medium, is strictly prohibited.

What does this mean?
This is an original pattern by Ashlee Brotzell. You may not copy, reproduce, sell, or share any part of it whether for profit or not. This includes, but is not limited to, the written pattern, the chart, and the photos. No translations or video tutorials are allowed.

Sales of your finished items are, of course, unrestricted (and I wish you all the best!). I appreciate credit given to the designer when possible but it is not a requirement. You may tag me @AshleesLint or direct people to my website http://www.ashleeslint.com

ashleebrotzell

Hobby Stencil: Large Square, best for interlocking crochet

Update on July 6, 2021: I have created a one-piece blanket! https://ashleeslint.com/2021/07/06/hobby-stencil-blanket/

I did my first YouTube LIVE this morning! It was very fun and I feel a little bit famous now – you can watch it here: https://youtu.be/qaH8xu_s-L4

I did mention in that video that I was hoping to publish this pattern today – and here it is!

Skip the babble, I want the pattern

When I started designing I only created patterns for interlocking crochet. I was told that my charts would work for overlay mosaic crochet as well, so since it didn’t require me to change anything I added those instructions to all my patterns as well.

But, even though you CAN do both techniques for all my patterns, sometimes one technique just works better than the other.

For example, my Eiffel Tower pattern has horizontal stripes through the whole thing. This is very easy when doing the mosaic technique but it is a bit annoying when doing it in interlocking crochet.

My squares, of all sizes, do seem easier to do in interlocking because there are no tails to worry about. You can add an envelope border to your mosaic pieces but it is an extra step that I don’t really like doing because I want to move on to the next big thing. And, for this new pattern an envelope border might detract from the design a little.

This “Hobby Stencil” square was designed to be added to more squares to create a bigger design. It is small enough to work on in the summer heat (as opposed to a blanket which can get too warm).

You can also join it to other squares if you’re not concerned about breaking up the flow of the pattern.

Where To Get the Pattern

I sell my patterns on Etsy and Ravelry. Not all of them are on Etsy, but this one is!

You can get 10% off your cart with a minimum purchase of $10 CAD until June 30, 2021. Use code “HOBBY” (valid for Etsy and Ravelry).

View “Hobby Stencil” on Etsy
View “Hobby Stencil” on Ravelry
Buy “Hobby Stencil” Now on Ravelry
I haven’t joined these squares together yet but this is the way I am going to arrange them

June 24, 2021 Update: I just sent an email that included an announcement about this pattern: https://mailchi.mp/8202b396674b/youtube-live-and-new-pattern

ashleebrotzell

Fleur De Lis Wall Hanging

I consider this a companion to my Eiffel Tower Wall Hanging. A friend requested the Fleur De Lis to go with the Eiffel Tower and I was happy to oblige. I’ve had a few asking about when and how they can get the Eiffel Tower pattern; at the end of August the rights will revert to me and I will publish on Etsy and Ravelry. Until then, it is only available in Issue 68 of Crochet Now! magazine.

You can get your copy on Etsy or Ravelry. It is 20% off for the first few days! *no code needed, offer expires 11:59 pm CST, June 10, 2021.

“Fleur De Lis” on Ravelry
“Fleur De Lis” on Etsy

Wall Hanging

I have included instructions for turning this rectangle into a wall hanging as such: cut a piece of MC yarn about 4x the length of your dowel. Whip stitch around the dowel into each stitch across the top. Tie another piece of yarn to each end of the dowel to use when hanging on the wall.

But, of course, you are free to do whatever you like with your piece! My tester, @raki_crochet did these beautiful single crochet (sc – US terminology) tabs. Each tab is 7 stitches wide and 17 rows tall. There are 11 stitches between each tab.

I am sure you can find a few options on YouTube – I don’t have a video on adding the dowel for a wall hanging yet, but maybe someday I will add my voice!

Fringe

Created naturally with the overlay mosaic technique. An optional addition when done in interlocking crochet.

The fringe on the sides is a by-product of cutting your yarn for each row when using the mosaic crochet technique. You can add an envelope border to hide them but I think they look good as a design attribute.

If you work this pattern using the interlocking technique there is no fringe. But, because it looks so good, I would add fringe to the bottom or to the two sides like the mosaic version.

These instructions are included in the interlocking part of the pattern: cut 1 piece each of both the MC and AC yarn for each window you will add fringe to. Length can be whatever you choose, I suggest 8-10” each which gives you about a 4” tassel.

Holding one strand of each color, fold in half and pull the loop from the front to the back (go through each window along the bottom edge).

Drop the ends inside the loop and pull tight.

You can see that my photos are using a different pattern (the MusicCAL, to be specific), but you can add tassels to anything!

Yarn weight and hook size can easily be adjusted, just keep in mind your finished project will use a different amount of yarn and be a different finished size. A gauge swatch can help with that.

Watch my YouTube tutorials! I also have a free photo tutorial in PDF form on this technique available in my Facebook group (Ashlee Brotzell Designs) and on Ravelry. All my social media links are here: https://linktr.ee/LFMandMosaic

If you share your works on Instagram, tag me: @AshleesLint

Important Details

  • US crochet terminology
  • Chart is 77 x 87
  • Finished measurements approximately 13” x 14.5”
  • 3 mm hook (C/2)
  • Wooden Dowel: 1/2” diameter, 16” length
  • Finishing needle
  • Scheepjes Organicon (Or any fingering weight yarn to meet gauge) (260 yards total)
    • Main color (MC) – 120 yards (plus 20 for optional sc border when done with interlocking)
    • Accent color (AC) – 120 yards
    • Yarn estimates do not include fringe! If you make long fringe you will need more yarn.
  • Interlocking Gauge: 13 dc x 26 rows = 4”
  • Mosaic Gauge: 26 sc x 26 rows = 4”

You may have noticed that this pattern is SO CLOSE to being the same size as my 40-windows squares (chart 81 x 81). I originally tried drawing it up to be the same but the dimensions just weren’t working. I do like it when one pattern can be used for more than one thing, but in this case I just had to make it it’s own wall hanging without being easily added to the large afghan squares.

I know that yarn weight can also be a confusing thing. We have so many different terms for the same thing. Yarnsub.com can give you some options, or you can check out what the Yarn Council has to say about yarn weights.

A final note: most of my patterns are written up with only two colors (main color and accent/contrast color). A few have included extra colors and I want to make sure everyone knows that I am not the type of designer to get bent out of shape when people take my patterns and create their own beautiful works of art. So, add some color, mix and match with other patterns, make your project your own. Just don’t sell my pattern as your own.

https://ravel.me/fleur-de-lis-wall-hanging

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