American Girl Backpack Pattern

The pictures show two backpacks. The little one is for the American Girl dolls. I will post the pattern for the big girl backpack another day.

American Girl backpack by Elizabeth Mareno 2006

Materials: G hook, Small amounts of WW yarn, Needle for assembly.

Body:
With pink
Row 1- ch14, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across (13) sc on opposite side of starting ch.(26)
Do not increase at the corners and do not join.
Row2-7- sc in each sc around. Place marker @ first sc of row 2 to help keep count.
Row 8- (chg to green, sc in 3sc, chg to pink, sc in 3sc) around to last 2sc, chg to green, sc in last 2sc, cut pink.
Row 9-11- with green sc in each sc around.
Row 12- (chg to pink, sc in 3sc, chg to grn, sc in 3sc) around to last 2sc, chg to pink, sc in last 2sc. Cut green.
Row 13-14- with pink sc in each sc around.
Row 15- ch3, (sk next sc, dc in next sc, ch1) around, sl st to ch2 of ch3. (13 ch1 spc)
Row 16- ch1, sc in join, sc in each ch1 sp and dc around. (26sc) Finish off.

Straps(make 2):
with one color
Row 1- ch4, sc in 2nd ch and last 2 chs(3sc)
Row 2-30- ch1, turn, sc in each sc.
Fasten off.
*Attach- 2 rows up from bottom and 2 rows down from top and about 2-3sc in on either side.

Ties(make 1):
with opposite color
ch51, sl st in 2nd ch and in each ch across. Fasten off. Weave in ends. Weave over and under around top of bag keeping ends in the front.

All done! Have fun!
biz

For other American Girl items, visit www.AmericanDollsGirlsLove.com

AG Fresh as a Daisy

Just thought I'd share the latest addition to the AG "Garden Party" Series. This is design #2! Called "Fresh as a Daisy". The pattern includes the dress, hat, choker and purse. It is currently for sale in my Ebay store. Look on the side for a link----->

Pooh in Pastel

This is the partial blanket done in mint green and chocolate brown. Pooh is cornmeal and I will give him a light blue shirt. This is for a new niece/nephew due in July. They are confident they are having a girl, but I'm not going to put all of that time and effort into making this blanket pink and have it come out a boy!


This is the picture I'm making the blanket from. I took the picture from a craft magazine years ago and had someone graph it on the computer for me. This is actually a latch hook kit! lol! But I just determined how many stitches I wanted per square and away we went! It's challenging and has LOTS of color changes (which I absolutely hate!) but it turns out so darn cute how can you not make it?? I will be making an accompanying Pooh stuffed toy to go with the blanket, that will have to wait till I finish this tho.....
The stuffed toy, believe it or not, is harder than the blanket. I've made only one of each so far for two different friends having babies. But maybe I should make it more, huh?

ttfn
biz

Sampler Scarf

*links provided may be affiliate links

 This beautiful, light scarf is a crochet stitch sampler highlighting the Shell stitch.

Sampler Scarf Pattern

Materials: 1-1/2 skeins of each of the following:
Scheepjes "Spirit" in Dolphin, Blue Jay, Orca, and Grasshopper. You can find Scheepjes yarn here.
F hook
Lg eye needle for weaving ends

ch26

Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across. (25)

Row 2-3: ch1, turn, sc in each sc across.

Row 4: ch1, turn, (sc in 1sc, sk next sc, 5dc in next sc, sk next sc) 5 times. Sc in last sc. (6shells, 7sc)

Row 5: ch4(cts as dc and ch1), turn, (sk 2dc, sc in next dc, ch1, sk 2dc, dc in next sc, ch1) 5 times, ch1, sk 2dc, sc in next dc, ch1, sk 2dc, dc in last sc.

Row 6: ch1, turn, sc in each st and sp across. sc in 3rd ch of original ch4 (25)

Row 7: ch2, turn, hdc in ea sc across.

Row 8-11: Repeat rows 4-7 once.

Row 12: ch1, turn, sc in each hdc across.(25)

Row 13: ch2, turn, hdc in each sc across.

Row 14-17: Repeat rows 12+13 alternately.

Row 18-114: Repeat rows 4-17, 5 times.

Row 115-118: Repeat rows 4-7

Row 119-120: Repeat row 4+5

Row 121: Repeat row 6

Row 122-123: Ch1, turn, sc in each sc across (25) do not cut!

Row 124: ch1, turn to long edge, sc in each sc+hdc row end, 2sc in each dc row end. Cut off. Weave in ends.

Row 125: Join with sl st in opposite side and repeat row 124

Cut strands for fringe- put 4 together- secure to end of scarf (using a latch hook technique) leaving 2 spcs in between each tassel.

Frog Hat

Ok. Here's the pattern for this uber cute hat! I will admit I didn't come up with the 'idea' for the hat. It was inspired by a little kids hat, BUT, the pattern is mine, so enjoy!!

Frog Hat by Elizabeth Mareno

Adult Size 22"

Materials:

4-5 oz Lt Green WW (I used Red Heart "Spring Green")

1-2 oz Dk Green WW (I used RH "Dark Sage")

scraps of black and white WW

small amt of stuffing

Lg eye needle for assembly

H hook

Hat body

Note: Hat is worked in continuous rounds. Do not join unless indicated.

With lt green, ch 2

Rnd 1- 4sc in 2nd ch from hook

Rnd 2- 2sc in each sc. (8)

Rnd 3- 2sc in each sc. (16)

Rnd 4- sc in each sc.

Rnd 5- *2sc in next sc; sc in next sc; rep from * 7 times more. (24)

Rnd 6- Rep rnd 4

Rnd 7- Rep rnd 5- (36)

Rnd 8- *2sc in next sc; sc in next 2sc; rep from * 11 times more- (48)

Rnd 9- Rep rnd 4

Rnd 10- *2sc in next sc; sc in next 3sc (60)

Rnd 11- Rep rnd 4

Rnd 12- *2sc in next sc; sc in next 4sc (72)

Rnd 13-32- Rep rnd 4. sl st to first sc. Finish off.

with Dark Green & bottom of hat facing away from you:

Rnd 33- Join with dark green to 'join' of last round. , ch1, In Front Loops Only, sc in same st; sc in each sc around. join with first sc. (72)

Rnd 34-36- ch1, turn, sc in both loops in each sc around. join with first sc.

Finish off. Weave in all ends.

Ear Flaps:

with light green: bottom facing away from you & working on rem loops on row 32:

#1

Row 1: sk 10 st from back join. Sc in next free loop and in next 10 loops. (11)

Row 2-4: Ch1, turn, sc in ea sc.

Row 5: sc dec on both ends, sc in ea sc. (9)

Row 6: ch1, turn, sc in ea sc.

Row 7-12: rep rows 5 & 6 alternately, ending with 3sc.

Row 13: sc dec, sc in next sc. (2)

Row 14: rep 6

Row 15: sc dec.

Row 16: ch1, turn, sc.

Row 17: ch 26, sl st in 2nd ch from hook and each ch. Finish off and weave in ends.

#2

Skip 30 loops on row 32. Follow directions for ear flap #1.

Frog Feet:

Note: Do not join rounds unless noted.

With Dark Green, ch2

Rnd 1: 4sc in 2nd ch.

Rnd 2: (2sc in next sc, sc in next sc) twice. (6)

Rnd 3: (2sc in next sc, sc in next 2 sc) twice (8)

Rnd 4: (2sc in next sc, sc in next 3sc) twice (10)

Rnd 5: (2sc in next sc, sc in next 4sc) twice (12)

Rnd 6: (2sc in next sc, sc in next 5sc) twice (14)

Rnd 7: (2sc in next sc, sc in next 6sc) twice (16)

Rnd 8: (2sc in next sc, sc in next 7sc) twice (18)

Row 9: sk first sc, [(4dc in next sc, sc in next,)twice, sk one sc, 4dc in next, sk one sc] twice. sl st in last sc.

Finish off leaving long end for sewing. Stuff lightly and sew closed matching up "toes", finish stuffing as you sew. Weave long end up the side of foot and use same string to sew heel of foot to hat strings.

Eyes: Do not join rounds.

Back: Make 2

with lt green, ch2

Rnd 1: 6sc in 2nd ch.

Rnd 2: 2sc in each sc (12)

Rnd 3: (2sc in next, 1 sc in next) around. (18)

Sl st to first sc. Finish off.

Front: Make 2

With white, ch2

Rnd 1: 6 sc in 2nd ch

Rnd 2: 2sc in 3sc, (chg to black), 2sc in 3 (12)

Rnd 3: (chg to white) *(2sc in next sc, 1 sc in next sc) 3 times*, (chg to black) repeat *to* once.

Finish off.

Eye Assembly: Holding wrong sides together, join with sc thru both thicknesses on black side (sk 1 black sc from bottom) crochet in remaining black and white sc around to last white sc, then sc in last 2sc ONLY thru front thickness, not both. Finish off, leaving long end for attaching to hat.

Attach to hat about 4 rows down from center on each side. Stuff them before sewing on.

Embroider big smile on frog's face with black.

Good luck and have fun!! Let me know if ya like it!

biz

HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEFANI!!! 12 YEARS OLD!

OK. At 4:37 this very morning 12 years ago I was laying on an operating table listening to my first born scream. After 13 hours of hard labor (we won't go into details) they finally decided to take her out. Come to find out she was stuck on my pelvic bone and had a small wrinkle above her right eye for weeks because of it.

She is beautiful and joyful and vibrant and one of the pride's of my life. Through 2 years of chemotherapy she displayed a maturity and strength that many adults would be hard pressed to put forth.

So..............FELIZ CUMPLEANOS CHICA!!! TU ES MI AMORE!

Sorry....she's watching the 'cheetah girls 2' (birthday present) right now and I was overtaken by the need to speak spanish!

tah

b

Backpacks

Wow. I'm going to see how long I can keep this posting everyday thing up. Now watch tomorrow I'll forget.

There's nothing really very exciting to share. Oh wait. I made a backpack set yesterday. One for a little girl and one for her doll. And by five thirty this morning my right arm was throbbing in pain and going numb. I think I need to get this carpal tunnel thing checked out.

Anyway. I thought you might enjoy the adorable color combinations. My daughter picked them out. And even though I've already made her her own backpack(two years ago), she wants this one. I've told her no. But she is a professional nagger...I mean she could make money doing this. She is almost 12 (in 7 days) and has had mannnny years of practice. She knows she can break me down. I want to be resolved about this, but I always feel guilty. Don't ask me why, its not like she is lacking for ANYTHING! When she was diagnosed with cancer she really learned how to tweek the old 'precious moments' eyes and then go in for the kill. I'm telling you she could earn a living.....

I will talk to you later. I have a doll nightie, robe and slippers to design. It's sitting in my head just screaming to come out and be worn by an American Girl!!!

TTFN

bizzer

Doll Dresses Finished

I forgot to get a picture of the purple dress. It turned out unbelievably cute. I used silver buttons with daisies on them to finish off....I'll have to get a picture of it in three weeks when I see my niece again. Meanwhile, here are the other two girls....

What do you think?

b

Whimsical Castle Pattern

Hello, my fantasy crochet friends! Today, I'm thrilled to re-introduce to you a quirky project that's sure to spark joy in your crafting journey – the Whimsical Castle Toy Bag! 🏰✨

This is an OG pattern of mine from 2006 that has gotten a recent update and rewrite. It was one of the first patterns that I wrote out, so it was definitely lacking in the style department. But, I recently reconfigured it so that it has more stability and integrity and it now stands on its own. Plus, I redesigned the roof so it helps in the stability of the castle instead of being too wonky to be any good. Yay! I'm really excited about the fact that this little pattern has had the chance to have some new life breathed into it. My testers were very happy with the changes, so if you ever made this pattern when it was in its original state, I hope you are happy with the changes too.

Let's set the mood.

Regardless of your level of crochet expertise, this charming little castle-inspired bag, complete with a rippled roof and a tie closure that playfully peeks through the window, is going to be a fun and enchanting project. It works up quickly and uses very basic stitches. 

What makes this project truly magical is its versatility. While the pattern is designed for a compact size, perfect for storing small treasures or even as a cozy home for tiny characters, you can customize it to your heart's content. Want a grander castle fit for a fairy tale kingdom? Simply scale up the yarn weight, and voila! Your imagination is the only limit.

Recommendations:

Now, let's talk materials. While you can use any yarn weight for this project, I highly recommend worsted weight or bigger. Why, you ask? Well, not only does it give your castle bag a sturdy structure, but it also provides ample space for creating those adorable miniature characters to inhabit its whimsical walls. Think of it as a blank canvas just waiting for your creative touch!

With just 2 ounces of yarn needed, this project is perfect for stash-busting! Say goodbye to your leftover yarn scraps gathering dust in your closet and hello to a charming castle toy bag that's as practical as it is whimsical.

What can you use it for?

This project isn't just about crocheting; it's about spreading joy and wonder to those around you. Imagine gifting this charming castle toy bag at a baby shower for parents who adore fantasy-based toys. It's a thoughtful gesture that's sure to earn you some major brownie points – and perhaps a few requests for your next crochet masterpiece!

Here is my favorite pattern for filling this castle, but you can use any small fantasy character to put inside: 

Melissa Mall's Fairy Tale Character Finger Puppets

I just stuffed them with fiberfill and closed up the bottoms of the finger puppets. They are the PERFECT size for this castle. They were actually the inspiration for me to design this castle in the first place. I wanted to give them as a gift, but I felt like they needed something to hold them all together...hence, the castle!

Free on the blog or a PDF upgrade.

Now, here's the best part – the pattern for the Whimsical Castle Toy Bag is available for free on my blog- just scroll down! You can dive into this enchanting project without another thought. But, for those who prefer a convenient PDF format, I also offer a PDF upgrade option. You can purchase the pattern on Etsy, Ravelry, or my Website, just click a picture below:

Thank you for your support!!

We're going on an adventure!!

If you're ready to get crocheting, grab your crochet hook, raid your yarn stash, and let's embark on a magical journey together. Whether you're crafting for yourself or spreading joy to others, the Whimsical Castle Toy Bag is going to bring a touch of enchantment to your crochet adventures.

X's and O's Baby Blanket

It's called X's and O's Baby Blanket. It is uber cute when it's done and I worked it in two strands of Lion Softee Baby throughout so it's ultra soft and creamy too!

X's and O's Baby Blanket
Skill: Easy

X's and O's Baby Blanket copyright © 3/9/06 Elizabeth Mareno

Supplies: J hook
MC- Sport yarn- approx 10 oz
CC #1- Sport yarn- approx 6-8 oz
CC #2- Sport yarn- approx 3 oz
(Amounts are estimated. Sample uses Bernat Softee Baby in "Baby Denims" for MC, Bernat Softee Baby in "Lemon" for CC #2 and Caron Simply Soft in "White" for CC #1)
Blunt Needle

**Note** Afghan is worked holding two strands of yarn together at all times.
**Specialty Stitches**
X-Stitch: worked over 2 st. Skip first st, tr in next st. Working behind tr just made, work tr in skipped st.
Bobble: (YO, insert hook in designated st, YO, pull through, YO, pull through 2 loops)3 times. YO, pull through 4 loops left on the hook. One bobble made.
Ch 3 counts as dc throughout
Ch 4 counts as tr throughout

With MC & CC #1,ch 78
Row 1: dc in 4th ch from hook and in each ch across. (76)
Row 2(RS): ch 4, work X-stitch across, tr in top ch of ch 3. (76)
Row 3: ch 3, dc in each tr across, dc in top ch of ch 4. (76)
Row 4: ch 3, dc in each dc across, dc in top ch of ch 3.
Rows 5-7: Repeat row 4
Row 8: Repeat row 2
Row 9: Repeat row 3. Change CC #1 to CC #2
Row 10: ch 1, sc in each dc across. (76)
Row 11: ch 2, hdc in next sc, (create bobble in next sc, hdc in next 4 sc) 14 times, bobble, hdc in last 3 sc. (76)
Row 12: Repeat row 10. Change CC#2 to CC #1
Rows 13-36: Repeat rows 1-12 three times.
Rows 37-45: Repeat rows 1-9 once. Finish off.

Edging:
Row 1: Attach MC/CC#2 in top right dc with a ch 1. Sc in same st, sc evenly around afghan, putting 3 sc in each corner, ending with 2 sc in same st as first sc. join with sl st.
Row 2: ch 2, turn. Hdc in next 2 sc, work bobble, * (hdc in next 4 sc, work bobble st) to next corner, 3 hdc in corner sc*, work from * to * 2 more times. (hdc in next 4 sc, work bobble st) to next corner, 2 hdc in same st as first hdc. join with sl st.
Row 3: ch 1, turn. sc in same st, sc in each hdc around, putting 3 sc in corners, ending with 2 sc in same st as first sc. Fasten off and weave in ends.