The Caron Notebook

On September 21, the New York City Crochet Guild sponsored their own grassroots Knit-Out, held on famous 125th Street in Harlem. Earlier in the year, they asked if I would come down to judge the fashion show, so how could I say no?

These ladies had been so active in the Knit-Outs when they were held in NYC, they felt they needed to continue the tradition but just uptown. And continue they did! Here are a few photos from the day.

My favorite is of Gabriel Christianson holding the bear that’s wearing the scarf he crocheted. In the photo he’s waiting his turn to go “out on the runway.”

And to the right are a couple ladies joining squares to create afghans for Warm Up America.

Coffee Cup Surprise!
Like many of us who work in offices, we often take a few minute to step out and grab a cup o’ joe – I know I do. But I was noticing how many java jackets aka cup cozies I was accumulating. I almost brought them all back to the espresso shop but thought of a better idea, one we could share with you: make (and customize) your own crocheted (and knit) java jackets! Liz jumped at the opportunity, so here you have our first – of many – cup cozies made using Country. This will be the basic crocheted pattern that we will use for future customized cozies, so keep the pattern handy. And next week, look out for a knitted version. Who knows? You might even get one from me!

Reusable Cup Cozy
designed by Liz Walsh

SIZES: One size

YARN
Caron International’s Naturallycaron.com Country (75% Microdenier Acrylic/25% Merino Wool): 2 oz of yarn will make 3 cozies
#0012 Foliage (1oz/28g) (A)
#0021 Peacock (1oz/28g) (B)

CROCHET HOOK
One size US G/6 (4 mm), or size to obtain gauge

ADDITIONAL MATERIALS
Yarn needle

GAUGE: In single crochet, using size US G/6 (4 mm) hook, 11 sts and 12 rows = 2″/5 cm

STITCHES USED
Chain (ch)
Single crochet (sc)
Slip stitch (slip st)

NOTE
To change color in join of a round, insert hook in first sc of round, yarn over with new color and draw through all loops on hook. Carry color not in use up wrong side of work until needed for next color change.

COZY
With A, ch 48; join with slip st in first ch to form a ring.
Rounds 1–3 (RS): Ch 1, sc in each sc around; join with slip st in first sc; change to B in join of last round—48 sc.
Rounds 4–6: With B, ch 1, sc in each sc around; join with slip st in first sc; change to A in join of last round.
Rounds 7–9: With A, rep Rounds 4–6.
Rounds 10–15: With B, rep Rounds 4–9. Fasten off.

FINISHING
Using yarn needle, weave in ends.
Enjoy! Ahhhhh – hot cupa joe!

Today’s Patterns

La Paloma Wrap
It’s Kristin Omdahl at her finest! This amazing La Paloma lace wrap is crocheted in four colors of Spa and it’s one of my favorites. Wear it over a tank – or wrap it around a fall jacket. It’s amazing however you look at it!

Edinborough Pullover Vest
While some may call this a vest and some a top, whatever you call the Edinborough, call it versatile. Click through the various options for wearing this piece and you’ll see what I mean. It’s a top under a jacket, a vest over a blouse or a spring/summer top worn just as is. Plus you can belt it or wear it straight. Designer Kim Kotary used Country in Naturally for Edinborough.

Cusco Vest
The Cusco vest, knitted in Country, is a wonderful contemporary adaptation of a traditional menswear cardigan popular in the 50’s. The contrasting front is what makes this design so unique – and so retro. Designer Margret Willson created this project using an easy textured stitch and basic 3-color slip stitch. But Cusco has a story behind it, which I’ll explain – and show you – next week.

Amsterdam Coat
Another Doris Chan original, the Amsterdam Coat is totally “Doris.” It’s crocheted from the neck down, one of her signatures, with a wide flounced border that is so flattering on nearly any figure. Yes, the sizes go up to a 3X, so truly nearly anyone can make and wear this super design. The Amsterdam coat is crocheted in Country in color Peacock.