I'm a Hooker Now

Word play!

I don't know what it was that inspired me, but a month ago I made the decision that I was going to learn how to crochet.  I immediately went to Joann Fabrics, bought myself the variety pack of crochet needles and a skein of yarn.

Susan Bates Crochet Hook Set.  My set is rainbow colors & way more fun than this.

My timing could not have been more perfect.  The archivist where I work informed me that she had recently started a monthly "Fiber Time" gathering.  It is a knitting/sewing/fiber working get together for anyone in the area to show off what they're working on, get advice, and enjoy each other's company.  The archivists enthusiastically offered to teach me how to crochet at the next meeting.  As I told her I'd definitely be there, a part of me wondered if I'd turned into an adorable 90 year old recently.  Boy, am I glad I ignored that annoying part of my brain.

Check out the pattern after the jump...

It's a Planket!

I have about 10 different projects floating around the house that I've been meaning to complete, but haven't gotten around to.  I'm great with excuses and procrastination.

There were no excuses for this project, though.  It was going out as a birthday gift for the little guy I babysit, which meant it had to be done yesterday.  Here it is!

 It's a pillow - it's a blanket - it's a planket!  

The inspiration and seriously simple  tutorial came from here.  I wanted to make something special for the little guy's second birthday, and when I saw this, I knew it was meant to be.  He loves being outside and watching his dad play lacrosse, so this is perfect.  It can be used as a pillow for cold bleacher (anyone else think 'bleacher' doesn't look right?) seats or as a blanket for sitting in the grass.

Unfortunately, I totally forgot to snap a pic of it unfolded, but hit the link to the tutorial and you'll understand the magic of the planket.

I wanted to challenge myself a little, so I decided to monogram his initials on with a zig-zag stitch.  Let's just say, it wasn't perfect...

But for a first go, I don't think it looks half bad.  Yes, my letters are a wonky, the seams are a bit...wild, and my J is teeny, but I love it.  It's hard not to love something that you put your blood, sweat, and tears into.  Okay, maybe no blood or tears, but I started out with a sweater on, and finished in a tank top.

I'd love to hear what you've recently made that's not perfect, but you love it anyway!  Leave a comment.