Hookin' it
Crochet, etc.

Dancing bear is an old fave - excuse the age spots on pattern. I usually do it in the ecru cotton with fringe instead of the scalloped edge. Next try will reverse the blocks, dark color. Three DC mesh in a worsted weight makes a perfect baby size.

Cotton thread works out to doll size and four triples in bulky yarn can be almost single bed size or a lap blanket. If a copy (right click to save) doesn't enlarge and print well enough, ask me for a download. The original was labeled play rug, could also be done in cross stitch.

Pattern was for puff stitch - wanted to try filet first. Alphabet takes four rows of five and two of three (ABC and XYZ) with hearts in corners.

First ripple for me, doing it in columns makes ripping out mistakes slightly less painful - so does calling it uncrochet.

Might still add a wider border or fringe.

Bub's "recliner sweater" - almost would cover the whole chair, he's 6', 5" - took almost eight feet to tuck under his size12s. Good pattern for men because it's not lacy. Hard to see even in close-up, it's clusters of three DCs alternating with SC in middle DC, chain three - sort of makes an uphill optical illusion.

Gathered circles are called yo-yos. Cutouts are dessert plate size. I wouldn't recommend any larger but a little smaller works.

Tied together with a light cord, no other join stitching.

Also dessert plate size, tacked then blanket-stitched with embroidery floss. Fraying looks better after every wash.

2" X 2" squares, seams out. Reverse is one piece. Tacked with buttons through one layer of batting - could be stuffed more, could also make fatter (more 3D) with row of squares going around (pic below).

This guy is about half size, both sides one piece. Sorry stitching doesn't show that well. Could stuff with dryer sheets or potpourri for use as drawer or suitcase fresheners. Even smaller can hang from car rearview mirror. Good sewing basics project for kids.

Sorry about the quality here, copied from an old magazine. Note ears missing on the pattern before you cut if doing in one piece. Thought one ear cocked looked better on my flat versions.

Made these for a few friends, that's Buster's pic with Santa.

http://www.therealmartha.com/Holidaze02/index.htm
http://www.therealmartha.com/holipix/index.htm
More craft, crochet and needlework projects among Christmas variety features

http://www.therealmartha.com/HolidayCritters/index.htm
Critters all dressed up waiting for Santa

Now, what to do with leftover yarn and fabric ... whip up a few critter-size pads or blankets, even stuffed toys for your local shelter. Animals aren't fussy about mixed up colors, brighter the better! Donations of any kind always appreciated, plus, people-size afghans and other handmade gift items tend to rake in nice bucks at auctions.

Questions/comments: MarthaJones1@aol.com

Always looking for new, easy and/or unusual patterns, your pics welcome too - thanks.

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