what do YOU want?

[rebeccav]

what would you like to see as far as crochet patterns are concerned?

childrens clothing? what kind?
womens?
funky?


please be as specific as possible...

[RachelG]

I'd like to see things that are rare. Read: no scarves, no ponchos, no hats, no mittens.

To me, rare is: CUTE form-fitting cardigans and jackets, lovely trendy tops (all kinds), dresses (lacy and light), etc.

My two cents...since you asked...:D

[donnalynn2]

I agree with Rachel... There are only so many ways to make scarves, hats and ponchos. Something unique and different. Personally I'm not into "funky" but would like to see things I have never seen before oh and patterns that don't call for yarn that costs a fortune to buy (like Moda Dea)... :hook

[threeolivemartini]

i have to echo rachel.. i think there is a need for nice sweaters.. made with finer guage yarns to kind of mimic some of the knits we have seen ..



i wouldnt mind some wraps or something of that sort that were fun.. funky .. asymetrical or odd shaped.. but i am pretty tired of the same old same old in that department..

some cool funky lacy skirt cover type things would be fun too

and please dont misunderstand me .. but a move away fom the granny square in clothing would be a nice change..

i actually would like to see some upper end yarns being used for those of us that dont particularly like cheap yarn as well as a substitution chart for other types of yearn that can be used..

also on this note.. i think many people dont think enough about substitues .. maybe a section on the importance of gauge swatching.. and ways tomake reasonable substitutes? i am assuming this is going to be a book ?

[pinknightmare]

i agree. fun trendy. i live in texas:sun so we are only able to wear scarves/ponchos for like a week. i would like some light things to compliment tank tops to dress them up a bit but not too heavy as it is verrry hot here. also i hate short shirts, i have a looong torso and baby fat:pig that makes it impossible to find clothes to cover my belly:) i would love some trendy summer clothes that cover me up enough but are cute:rabbit.

[swapnae]

No more ponchos or afghans.... :D

Wanted: Seamless clothing (hate those ends), lacier looks, more mitten patterns for babies (why are there so many bootie patterns but so few mitten one?)....seamless clothing!

[natalie058]

I'm totally on the garment bandwagon... I'd love to see more wearables [especially without fun fur - ick! :yuck] Bikinis are nice but they're the old stand-by crochet pattern. I'd like to see some flattering tops and sweaters, especially for bigger sizes. More bottomwear - cozy boyshorts or open skirts. I love a nice shawl, too - something lacy and unique. Fulling is big, but I'm sick of fulled bags - more fulled slipper and toy patterns would be nice.


And I'm totally with Beth on getting new, higher yarns in there, too... Seems like whenever I see a crochet pattern with high-end yarn it is freaking fur...Gag... More wool, silk, lacy and drapey yarns would be great.

[magdiego]

I'm not a shawl, wrap, or poncho wearer - and I hardly ever wear scarves, and there are plenty of those patterns. On the other hand, I've rarely seen a basic tank or shell pattern that your average 40-something could wear.

I love the jacket on the cover of the current Crochet! magazine - I may attempt that, though not in pink.

I fell in love with Knitty's Tubey (http://knitty.com/ISSUEwinter05/PATTtubey.html), and I may have to expand my knitting skills past basic knit and purl to make this. I wish it were possible to replicate something like this in crochet.

Mary

[threeolivemartini]

oh yeah ditto on the fur.. i am so sick of novelty yarn .. trim is one thing but full garments.. no way .. unless of course its the real deal


gimme silk.. angora.. cashmere.. wool..alpaca.. llama .. camel.. and of course some of the nicer higher end syntethics like soy silk and indegio ( i htink i spelled it right .. its made from corn) for those allergic or vegan..

[PoisonApple]

I would like to see more patterns for boys. YOu know stuff they would actually wear. While they are cute, no patterns for boys from the 70's or newsboy caps. I see things for baby boys and men...but not really inbetween.

[monael]

I agree with the garment requests! I think crochet is perfect for sweater coats, jackets and cardigans.


I want to see more patterns using interesting crochet stitches-I liked Cool Crochet but a lot of the patterns used such basic stitch patterns - all hdc or dc.

Also agree, NO hats, scarves, ponchos or shawls. Interesting purses would be good. But not a variation of 2 squares sewn together-I was so mad when I saw in a magazine (can't remember which one at the moment) who had a purse pattern that was 2 granny squares sewn together and a chain strap. What a rip!

I wish that more patterns would state the weight of the yarn. I usually have to research the yarn too long to figure out that it is worsted weight or whatever. And no novelty yarn! One thing I personally love about crochet is that the stitches can be so beautiful that simple yarns show it off.

If you are going to include afghans, please-no granny squares, no ripples, no patterns that are a stitch pattern repeated throughout. They are very nice afghans, not saying that. Just that there are so many of those type patterns out there that I don't need to see any more. Not if I am going to pay for the patterns.

[rebeccav]

oooo - this is great! keep it going..... tell me more :cheer

[RachelG]

Of course we're curious to know why you're asking, but we're too polite to say so. :lol:lol

[losingmymind2]

I want to see clothing sized for REAL people. If I see one more pattern that goes from xs to l and that's it I'm going to scream so loudly you'll hear me in Texas. We're here, we're big and we wear crochet too, designers!

[dhaunae]

Hear, hear to pretty much all of the above. Please please, no more fun fur or other novelty yarns, and no more poncho patterns! As for bulky yarn for clothing ... can we pretty much skip that? My daughter looks good in stuff made from bulky yarn. She wears a size 1. I don't think most of the rest of us need the additional bulk though ;)

For myself I'd love to see more patterns that used good natural fiber yarns (or gave enough info about the yarn used that without spending a lifetime researching I could figure out a substitution using the yarn of my choice). I've noticed a dearth of pretty short sleeved tops, seems like everything is either an all-out sweater or a tank top -- I'd LOVE to find some of those, since I'm at an age now where frankly my upper arms do not bear baring. I also completely agree with the folks who have noted that it's hard to find more fitted sweaters -- I'd love to see both the cardigan and pullover variety and for both men and women. And Magdiego, I've lusted after that Tubey sweater too!

As for sizing -- how about realistic sizing? S/M/L means NOTHING unless you know exactly what the designer means by it ... I've run across mediums that are tight on my teensy daughter, and mediums that hang off me like tents. Don't say medium, say Bust 36-38 or something that gives us an actual clue. And yep, a larger range of sizes; I wanted to make something for my mother and the only patterns I found that I liked didn't come in the 1X that she wears.

[dspotten]

On the other hand, I've rarely seen a basic tank or shell pattern that your average 40-something could wear.
I've noticed a dearth of pretty short sleeved tops, seems like everything is either an all-out sweater or a tank top -- I'd LOVE to find some of those, since I'm at an age now where frankly my upper arms do not bear baring.

I'll second both of these. I need tops to wear with suits!

Debby

[losingmymind2]

I don't wear sleeveless and I don't wear long sleeves very often, because they get in my way and annoy me. I need short to 3/4 or better yet, an option to make them the desired length in the pattern.

[Shelena]

I agree with everyone elses opinion...I would like to add that cute dresses would be nice but for real size women not stick people. Nothing too clingy because not all of us have a perfect figure!
I would love to see some freeform crochet sweaters as well.
Unique patterns for things would be great too such as hard to find patterns for things like wedding dresses, evening gowns and like someone else said things like look more like knit items. Cute purse patterns would be another request of mine, no your typical tote bag but more designer styled purses like the Fendi Knockoff Bag and such.

[reecie]

ok, i really dont have anything much to add here, but i completely agree with pretty much everything said...please please...clothes for real sized women (i'm a 14/16 women's bottom and a 16/18 women's top) and i HATE having to almost completely re-write patterns cause they're for skinny chicks. i would also love to see patterns written for the less expensive, but nice yarns, the less bulky yarns.

thanks for listening!

[dixieredhead]

Fun Fur is just wrong! It is time to bury it or burn it! I would like to see trendy clothing items, like maybe a snuggly cardigan. I really like those lacy shrug patterns the NICE ones.. like you see in real swanky stores. maybe a tutorial on types of yarn for diff types of clothing too. I want to buy the ritzy yarns, but have no clue what to use them for.

[rebeccav]

i was asked why, soo.....

i decided this was my year to do something about the absence of patterns. i think a lot of you know i was a professional seamstress for many years and now i want to put my sewing/pattern making knowledge to use with crochet. all i need are a few basic measurements and i can make a sewing pattern of any kind to fit any body. i took classes, went to seminars and practiced practiced practiced to develop this skill. it's just time i use it again. it's been 3 years (when my youngest was born) since i've touched my sad neglected sewing machine. guess i'm just missing it, but my heart is still in crochet right now. so there ya go. that's my reason. i hadn't really thought of a book or anything. i was really thinking 'crochet me'. the reason i ask is because i know what i like, but i'm a very very casual dresser and wanted to hear what others have in mind when searching for patterns.

...okay, i'm rambling.
i have saved everyone's comments and will continue to do so... i hope to be bugging for testers soon.:hook

[Yasmin]

I think ..I'd love to see more of women's clothing more form fitting and lacy.

[RachelG]

i was asked why, soo.....

i decided this was my year to do something about the absence of patterns. i think a lot of you know i was a professional seamstress for many years and now i want to put my sewing/pattern making knowledge to use with crochet. all i need are a few basic measurements and i can make a sewing pattern of any kind to fit any body. i took classes, went to seminars and practiced practiced practiced to develop this skill. it's just time i use it again. it's been 3 years (when my youngest was born) since i've touched my sad neglected sewing machine. guess i'm just missing it, but my heart is still in crochet right now. so there ya go. that's my reason. i hadn't really thought of a book or anything. i was really thinking 'crochet me'. the reason i ask is because i know what i like, but i'm a very very casual dresser and wanted to hear what others have in mind when searching for patterns.

...okay, i'm rambling.
i have saved everyone's comments and will continue to do so... i hope to be bugging for testers soon.:hook

You go girl! :hug :hook :cheer

[MarvieN]

I vote for more wearables too. No granny squares or fun fur lol. Cute stuff, things for real sizes, Cardis, tanks, sweaters, short sleeved tops.... I'm with the others who voted for affordable yarns too. The expensive stuff is nice, and if I could afford to use it I would... but I'm more interested in being able to make more items for my money. If I spend $100 on yarn, it better get me more than one project lol. I get very frustrated by the patterns in the magazines when they call for such expensive yarns. (I don't buy expensive clothes,shoes or bags either!) So I vote for nice, but affordable yarns.

One thing I like to see with clothing patterns is sketches with measurements. I like to know how long/wide each piece is supposed to turn out. That also makes it easier to sub yarns I'd guess? (I've made exactly one piece of clothing and I didn't use a pattern so I'm talking out my hind end here probably)

Anything that makes a pattern more adaptable would be great =)

[Lorrie]

I'm with everyone else when it come to garments that the real world can wear. I would like to see more patterns that are for pus size people. I wear a 3x and I have 1 pattern that I as able to find w/o having to change to fit me. I also echo the sleeve thing. Sleeveless and long sleeves are rare worn. short sleeve or 3/4 are nice. Thanks for the inquiry. This has ben nice to get off my chest.

[jtoland]

I would love to see more patterns for sweater-coats. I love these but I can't find a good pattern for one. I agree with everyone else about an expanded size range and more specific measurements for clothing. Less ponchos and fun fur would be nice, too.

[aliciasjoy]

Good luck on your endeavor!
I have to agree with all the fun fur hate, although I do like the bulky nubby yarns.
As for me, I'm a little weary of everyone trying to prove how cool crochet is with all the "fun, funky" patterns.
I agree with everyone who has asked for actual measurements instead of S,M,L. I don't like sewing pieces together, so any top-down, bottom-up, or general all in one piece with minimal joining type patterns make me very happy.
And, of course a stitch gauge, so it's easier to substitute yarn. You'd think that would be a given, wouldn't you? But I've seen a lot of patterns that don't give one.
Best of luck to you!

[itsnikki!]

I want to see nice womens' clothing. As nice as the stuff I see in knitting magazines/sites. In nice, natural fibers. I'm kinda getting away from the whole novelty yarn thing. They're nice enough in scarves and maybe hats... or maybe as a trim on gloves... that sort of thing, but not in clothing, imo. I am also kind of out of bulky items. I'd like to see crocheted clothing that has a nice drape to it, which might be achieved through a smaller hook and thinner yarn?

OH, and plus size patterns. Things that are really cute, and stylish... but still flattering. I'm only a XL/ 16-18 myself (tops), and I can't find sweaters that I like... that are long enough (below the waist), in a nice yarn, stitch pattern... that fits in a way to accentuate my curves, not hide them. But nothing tight either. Heh. Hope that made at least a LITTLE sense.

[RachelG]

Girl's clothing that would fit your daughter, Rebecca, would be popular also, I think. Nothing belly-button-baring, just sensible yet sassy. Like sets...shirt and skirt...or something like that.

[mamaoso]

I agree with the others.. I have been looking for sweater patterns for weeks nothing I liked in crochet, so I ended up knitting.....

You'll have a line of people to be your testers.. So don't worry about that!!!!

[Luvmyrott'nboy]

I LOVE ponchos, scarves and wraps...they make perfect gifts for folks because they are basically one size fits all and they work up quickly. However, I have only been crocheting since November and I have enough poncho, scarf and shawl patterns to last a lifetime or two!:lol

I agree some sweaters, sweater jacket/coats would be wonderful! Sleeveless and short sleeved tops would be great too! Yarn substitutions, and actual garment measurements would be helpful.

[kariholtz]

I want to see a funfur granny square scarf with a matching poncho done in disco with a boa trim.


No, seriously I'd have to just echo what everyone else is saying.

[Tiffany]

I want to see a funfur granny square scarf with a matching poncho done in disco with a boa trim.


No, seriously I'd have to just echo what everyone else is saying.

Oh yeah, you'd better be joking. I had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming when I read that. :lol

[Stacey]

What I'd love to see more of is clothing patterns that don't befuddle me :lol What I mean by that is that a lot of times the pattern will list sizes (S, M, L, etc) without explaining how big that's supposed to be, or list finished sizes without giving an indication of how much ease there's supposed to be. Maybe I'm just slow but I don't feel comfortable starting anything clothing-like without knowing what each size means in terms of both body measurement and finished size.

One thing I like to see with clothing patterns is sketches with measurements. I like to know how long/wide each piece is supposed to turn out. That, too! Sketches would be tremendously helpful.

And cute short-sleeved tops in lightweight yarns. I really want to make a cute top that isn't too heavy. :yay

[RachelG]

I want to see a funfur granny square scarf with a matching poncho done in disco with a boa trim.


I laughed out loud. :lol:lol

[Kathleen]

The thing about all the patterns with fun fun is they were probably written about a year or more ago. Whenever I've been published in magazines, they will accept the pattern and print it in 8 - 12 months. That's probably why we are so way ahead of the magazines when it comes to fun fun. I still really like it, but like everyone else, I'm sick of pattern books that are swamped with it.

I echo everyone else when I say we something new, maybe trendy, and nice to wear that's not too bulky

[Katchkan]

What I would like to see is pattern for clothing that flatter the everyday woman. I am not tall and willowy. Never have been and never will be. I have fought weight in the past and know that clothing that looks good on you is hard to come by. I see so many designs I would never wear if you paid me. If you go to all the time and effort to make something it should be something that makes you look your best when you wear it to show it off or it will hang in th closet forever. Well done or not. I don't like the designs that cut a woman right in half. not a good look. Necklines should be flattering. not make you look like you had your head chopped off. Sleeves that aren't going to drag into everything I try to eat or do. I see a lot of designs are geared to quick results and an economy of yarn. Large open designs, I never wear large prints and I don't think I would wear a large open design for the same reason. I dont like a lot of bulk for the same reason. There is enough of me, I don't want to make myself look any larger than necassary.

So well thought out designs, that are clear to read, explicit in their sizing, that can be done in wide range of yarns from pricey to economy and still look nice. Boy I don't want much do I. :eek

If we want to promote crochet we need to look great when someone sees it. and nine times out of ten it's seen when we are wearing it. So if it looks good on you it will encourage others to try it. If it makes you look like a sack of potatos they will never envy you your top. So let's make them pea green with envy and want to buy what you make or learn how to do it.

[natcat]

:) Katchkan!!!
you really said it well!!! even if it's just purses, or evening bags, atleast let them be really pretty in design, & PLEASE let the patterns be easy to read & follow !! I have never worn a crocheted top, or bottoms EITHER, i guess that people see the patterns & can't follow them, or just plain don't like them. I like crocheting afghans,& ripple afghans& giving them to our relatives, simply because the whole time I was growing up, I would have given my "eye-teeth" to have a beautiful afghan, wether it be granny squares, squares, straight, or ripple,"back then & now" there are so many people that don't want to take the time to sit their bottom down, & crochet either a regular-sized afghan or a long one, just to make someone else happy & to see the sparkle in their eye when they give it to them!! & If there are more patterns for tops with 3/4 length sleeves, long-waisted, V-or U necked, Please make it happen, & there are a lot of people that will be a lot happier, just because they found a pattern,they can make& wear.& what about a crocheted nightgown just to lounge around in??!!!:c9

[Lyndamic]

Personally, I want sweater patterns that do not require a PhD in crochet to follow.Sweaters patterns with measured dimensions for, and pictures of, each individual piece before assembly. So, when the pattern makes my head spin (as per usual), I can refer to measurements and pictures and know I'm on the right track. I just got the book "Glorious Crocheted Sweaters", and was really impressed by the included measurements. If only the clear-as-mud patterns were easier to follow!

[threeolivemartini]

Sweaters patterns with measured dimensions for, and pictures of, each individual piece before assembly


this is how knit patterns have been for years.. its about time crochet caught up .. ! for me its definately easier to size something if i have that kind of reference ..

[Pink]

I know some, if not all of this has been said previously but I'd like to add my 2cents worth anyway. I'd like to see more form fitting styles instead of all the cover ups and wraps. And the use of thinner yarns that drape softly rather than the bulky yarns that stick out! And patterns with more detailed measurements as mentioned before would be a bonus for those of us who would like to mix-n-match between two or more patterns to make something we can't find but can envision.

[antara]

I pretty much agree with what everyone else is saying, except I still love Fun Fur, lol. More wearables, particularly sweaters. I like Beth's suggestion about listing substitutes for the suggested yarn. There are a lot of beautiful yarns out there, but I simply can't afford to buy big quantities of them.

I hope you get into CrochetMe, Rebecca! Good luck! :cheer

[natcat]

I pretty much agree with what everyone else is saying, except I still love Fun Fur, lol. More wearables, particularly sweaters. I like Beth's suggestion about listing substitutes for the suggested yarn. There are a lot of beautiful yarns out there, but I simply can't afford to buy big quantities of them.

I hope you get into CrochetMe, Rebecca! Good luck! :cheer
Hi antara!!
I agree, there needs to be a list of substitutes if we don't want to, or just can get the yarn the pattern suggests. It's frustrating when you like a certain pattern, but can't get the yarn.
Hope You have a Nice Evening!!
Carol

[purlycues]

I would like to see more patterns for Boys from 6-10Yrs and up
Beaded doilies,purses.

[woolandflax]

Hmmm...since I'm getting more and more adventurous in my knitting, I'm seeing techniques that need to be transferred from knit to crochet. More dressmaker type detailing, more tailoring. Yet I crave retro (not 1960-1970's!) romantic 1940-1950's styled pieces. I love to accessorize so great bags and hats are a hit with me. I want more lacey patterns. Tops and sweaters with directions to make them fit those wearing A cups and those wearing DD cups!! Really more things like these (http://whiteliesdesigns.com/patterns/lpullovers.html)! And definately, NO MORE BULKY STUFF, unless it's like a gorgeous crocheted tweed peacoat! And NO fur unless it really looks real.

[rebeccav]

oh! that carina! i'm hearin' ya girls.... i'm sketchin' away :hook

[jchllm]

I'm with everyone else when it come to garments that the real world can wear. I would like to see more patterns that are for pus size people. I wear a 3x and I have 1 pattern that I as able to find w/o having to change to fit me. I also echo the sleeve thing. Sleeveless and long sleeves are rare worn. short sleeve or 3/4 are nice. Thanks for the inquiry. This has ben nice to get off my chest.

DITTO, DITTO, DITTO...........
Lisa :hook

[CrochetMonkey]

Boy, I have to agree with the previous posters regarding the fun fur -- I just don't want to see it anymore. I also agree that we need more adult clothing patterns (jackets, skirts, tops, sweaters, etc..). Even a nice adult bathrobe pattern would be great. Like someone else also posted, adding a list of substitute yarns for the pattern would be extremely helpful (I think this would also help the pattern sell better too, IMO). I would also love to see patterns for use in an automobile. For example, someone here recently made a steering wheel cover. For more automobile patterns, how about seat protectors/covers, seat tote bags (the kind that hang from the back of the head-rest), CD holders, or even floor mats? I would love to see patterns like these for use in an automobile.

[princsstrish]

Conservative, traditional clothing and afghans. I'm definitely into the afghans and can't wear most of the clothing patterns that are out there. Nothing funky cuz usually only the runway models can get away with wearing it.

I think all the kids patterns out there are fantastic but for women and men, the clothing patterns are just too trendy for me.

[justwantacraft]

I so agree with everyone here and just to say Im a size 14 or 16 a real life person and everytime I see something I really like its knitted and on a size tiny person. Love to see wearable stuff in adult woman fashion in afordable yarns with crochet pattern that is written so that your able to crochet it not confuse the person in crochet pattern double talk.

[Qmare]

I wish that more patterns would state the weight of the yarn. I usually have to research the yarn too long to figure out that it is worsted weight or whatever.

I totally agree here!!! It bugs me when there is no mention of the weight of the yarn used. Its like the company that is publishing the pattern is afraid no one will buy their yarn if they publish a way to find an alternate. Give me a break!!!

I, too, would like to see some fine garment patterns like you see with knit. I think that there is a lot more potential for crochet to create fine garments but there just aren't enough designs using the finer fibers.

[Qmare]

I fell in love with Knitty's Tubey (http://knitty.com/ISSUEwinter05/PATTtubey.html), and I may have to expand my knitting skills past basic knit and purl to make this. I wish it were possible to replicate something like this in crochet.

Mary

I don't see why that couldn't be done in crochet - we'd just need to use a small hook and a fine yarn. Maybe even sock weight would work. Hmmm... (thinking about what is in stash... and remembering all the projects on the pile)...

I may have to try this out!

[Qmare]

[QUOTE=kariholtz]I want to see a funfur granny square scarf with a matching poncho done in disco with a boa trim.
QUOTE]

:devil :laughroll :devil :rofl :devil :laughroll :devil :rofl

Very funny!

[Kathleen]

Oh, I just thought of something I would love...a felted form fitted jacket/carcoat pattern.. double breasted maybe.. and in several sizes. How's that for a challenge?

[rebeccav]

Oh, I just thought of something I would love...a felted form fitted jacket/carcoat pattern.. double breasted maybe.. and in several sizes. How's that for a challenge?

oh wow - that is a tough one. not so sure about it... there's too much play in felting for accurate results (IMO)

[Sonny321]

My personal pattern wishlist would echo alot of the things already listed,

1. Yarn substitution list for the pattern in a variety of price catagories, Not every one can spend $70 to make a sweater.

2. Larger sizes and pretty garments for larger women. Larger doesn't have to mean shapeless. It irks me that there are so few patterns out there for larger women and the ones that are out there are shapeless and unflattering for the most part. I'd like to be able to find lovely garments in real women sizes to make for my larger family members.

3. More boys stuff, nice sweaters, not too cutesy, just nicely designed sweaters that they would be proud to wear.

4. More nice mens sweaters, classic lines, nice manly color schemes that they would love to wear.

5. Mens garments also in larger sizes, Men too have a hard time finding nice things to wear in larger sizes. My Hubby had the hardest time finding things he liked to wear versus just finding somthing that fit before he lost all his weight.

6. Light and Lacy sweaters and garments, well designed clean classic lines, that won't go out of style in 5 minutes. Also garments that flatter the womanly shape. We have curves, whether petite or gloriously buxom we have curves and garments ought to acentuate them. Gone should be the days of boxy shapeless sweaters and tops. There are some lovely classic patterns that could be reworked and brought up to more modern tastes.


7. More midrange priced yarns, it seems to me that you've got your cheaper widely available yarns and your high end yarns but not much in between.

that's all that comes to mind at the moment.

[pragmatica]

I'm violently in agreement with everyone to date (I do like fun fur for edging girls' clothes and scrunchies, but I myself wouldn't be caught dead in in either) but I'd like to make some very specific suggestions for improving existing clothing patterns. (I'm following my first pattern for an article of clothing right now and there are some real problems with it, as noted by many others.)

First, what do I want? I WANT THE PICTURE TO BE SHAPED LIKE THE ACTUAL ARTICLE. I'm working out of Susan Huxley's "Crocheted Sweaters," and in many cases, the picture of the sweater is clearly fitted (curves in at the stomach and out at the waist) while the construction of the garment clearly IS NOT -- they're two rectangles sewn together to make a box. Granted, this is my first pattern, but it seems to me to be a flat-out lie. Ain't no way that I'm going to sew these two rectangles together per the instructions and get something that comes in at the waist and curves out again. Now, the next time time I make this, I can probably suss out where to do increases and decreases to make it look like the picture, but the picture should be accurate or the instructions should show how to make it look like the picture. I shouldn't have to make it twice -- once following the directions and once fixing the directions.

Second, I'd like to see better instructional design in crochet directions. (Here, I'm expanding on the general theme of "instructions that people can follow.) I have a background as a curriculum developer/tech writer/instructional designer (occupations that overlap but are not exactly the same), and I tell you what, you should NEVER get someone started on a 50-step procedure without an overview, and each numbered step should have ONE thing that you do, not 50 things that you do and call a single step (many cookbooks have the same problem, IMHO).

There are some fundamental principles of how to explain a complex procedure but you rarely see it in technical writing (hence the miserable software manuals, most of which stink except of course for mine :D) and it's even more scarce in the consumer hobby realm.

For example, in the pattern I'm working on, it's totally not clear when the various pieces get put together. How hard would it have been to have an overview section at the beginning that explained the general process as...

<fake overview starts here>

Here are the general steps:

* Make the back
* Make the front
* Sew the shoulder seams together
* Make the hood directly in the hole between the shoulder seams -- the hood will be created as a single rectangle and then sewn together
* Sew together the top of the hood
* Finish the edges of the neck and armholes
* Sew together the side seams of the body pieces

<fake overview ends here>

Now, that's not phrased right -- there's a better way to describe the whole hood process but hey, this ain't my book -- but it would have saved me the aggravation of reading the shorthand pattern trying to figure out how the <bleep> this thing actually gets assembled. This takes up maybe three more inches of copy, and gives the reader an idea of what they're actually going to be doing as they go through the pattern.

Sorry to go on such a screed -- like I said, this is the first time I've worked on a pattern for anything other than a scarf, doily, or blanket. There are lots of psychotic instructions in doily world but they don't typically involve fitting or assembly issues. All my fears about following a garment pattern seem pretty well confirmed; it's only because I'm operating under the perhaps-unfounded assumption that if I assemble enough sweaters following someone else's pattern, I'll get a general idea of the process and be able to work up some sweaters that I like and that actually fit me.

I'll go have a cup of tea and calm down now. Peaceful happy thoughts.

--Elissa

[rebeccav]

:bump
giving this a bump-

[Luvmyrott'nboy]

I'm violently in agreement with everyone to date (I do like fun fur for edging girls' clothes and scrunchies, but I myself wouldn't be caught dead in in either) but I'd like to make some very specific suggestions for improving existing clothing patterns. (I'm following my first pattern for an article of clothing right now and there are some real problems with it, as noted by many others.)

First, what do I want? I WANT THE PICTURE TO BE SHAPED LIKE THE ACTUAL ARTICLE. I'm working out of Susan Huxley's "Crocheted Sweaters," and in many cases, the picture of the sweater is clearly fitted (curves in at the stomach and out at the waist) while the construction of the garment clearly IS NOT -- they're two rectangles sewn together to make a box. Granted, this is my first pattern, but it seems to me to be a flat-out lie. Ain't no way that I'm going to sew these two rectangles together per the instructions and get something that comes in at the waist and curves out again. Now, the next time time I make this, I can probably suss out where to do increases and decreases to make it look like the picture, but the picture should be accurate or the instructions should show how to make it look like the picture. I shouldn't have to make it twice -- once following the directions and once fixing the directions.

Second, I'd like to see better instructional design in crochet directions. (Here, I'm expanding on the general theme of "instructions that people can follow.) I have a background as a curriculum developer/tech writer/instructional designer (occupations that overlap but are not exactly the same), and I tell you what, you should NEVER get someone started on a 50-step procedure without an overview, and each numbered step should have ONE thing that you do, not 50 things that you do and call a single step (many cookbooks have the same problem, IMHO).

There are some fundamental principles of how to explain a complex procedure but you rarely see it in technical writing (hence the miserable software manuals, most of which stink except of course for mine :D) and it's even more scarce in the consumer hobby realm.

For example, in the pattern I'm working on, it's totally not clear when the various pieces get put together. How hard would it have been to have an overview section at the beginning that explained the general process as...

<fake overview starts here>

Here are the general steps:

* Make the back
* Make the front
* Sew the shoulder seams together
* Make the hood directly in the hole between the shoulder seams -- the hood will be created as a single rectangle and then sewn together
* Sew together the top of the hood
* Finish the edges of the neck and armholes
* Sew together the side seams of the body pieces

<fake overview ends here>

Now, that's not phrased right -- there's a better way to describe the whole hood process but hey, this ain't my book -- but it would have saved me the aggravation of reading the shorthand pattern trying to figure out how the <bleep> this thing actually gets assembled. This takes up maybe three more inches of copy, and gives the reader an idea of what they're actually going to be doing as they go through the pattern.

Sorry to go on such a screed -- like I said, this is the first time I've worked on a pattern for anything other than a scarf, doily, or blanket. There are lots of psychotic instructions in doily world but they don't typically involve fitting or assembly issues. All my fears about following a garment pattern seem pretty well confirmed; it's only because I'm operating under the perhaps-unfounded assumption that if I assemble enough sweaters following someone else's pattern, I'll get a general idea of the process and be able to work up some sweaters that I like and that actually fit me.

I'll go have a cup of tea and calm down now. Peaceful happy thoughts.

--Elissa


Here, Here!!!! I so agree! I have another example: "decrease row: blah, blah, blah", next row: blah, blah, blah. Repeat last 2 rows 3 times" In "Cool Crochet" the mechanics of the increase/decrease are in the side bar and the instructions so clearly and succinctly say: "decrease every other row 6X"

[thecrochetdude]

How's about something for men besides scarves/hats/mittens?

[kariholtz]

How's about something for men besides scarves/hats/mittens?

YEAH!
It's so hard to come up with things to make the men in my life!

[Roli]

I've agreed with everything everyone here has said. In addition, I am also looking for a nice sweater pattern for DH. He HATES bulky sweaters and there are none out there in fine-guage at all! I'll have to come up with my own pattern or wait for yours, Rebecca.:help

[cherish]

I would like to see some crochet patterns for larger ladies, you don't see many about they seem very rare,(thats the pattern and not the ladies lol)
Cherish x

[snbarclay]

I agree with about all of everything said . I also would like to see more lil boy stuff. You see lil girl bonnets, blankets and booties. but not much of lil boy clothing at all. I like the Ideal of a line for the fuller figure. I am overly fuller figure.lol. size 18-20 maybe a 22 . But I need to get moving on how to make some of this stuff with the readings and all.:hook

[**Ann**]

I haven't been able to read all the posts but I agree with fun and hip tops for women and girls-especially advanced beginner level. Also simple skirts that can be embellished as the crocheter is interested in-adding lacy edges or something. These for women or girls also.
Not sure about men but definitely some cool (not the 70's style) vests for boys. My son loves fleece vests but I haven't found anything he'd wear in crochet....
Ann

[christinascrochethaven]

I must be a minority to like fun fur. I like using it in unusual ways to accent, not do the whole project in. It's amazing how a little bit can jazz up a item.

ANYWAY, I have 2 boys 9 and 10. Boy things would be nice...as well as men things. NOT just sweaters...

I would just like to see things explained better and made easier. I don't have a designer phd. Sweater/shirt patterns....they give me a headache...and I can't watch my kids and read it (the pattern) at the same time. Moms are multi-task people.
I also like unusual household items that are useful. I like giving my inlaws and my mom gifts, but they have so many things that it has to be useful.

Also teacher and teacher aide gifts that aren't apples. Not all teachers like apples...they like useful things. I really try to give things to teachers/teacher aides and school secretaries and librarians at least twice a year. They work really hard for the kids and get a lot of headaches in the process. Some of the kids are nightmares. I have a son in the Autism spectrum and he has 2 aides and a Special Ed teacher that work really hard with him. Little homemade items give them a well-earned thank you.

The other thing I would like is shirts/dresses/skirts/halters for little girls that are modest and yet cute. Modest..where their tummies aren't hanging out or things aren't too high up the thighs. (We don't need to get those sex offenders out there anything else to look at. They already have enough problems.)

I don't mind scarves and ponchos and hats and purses, but I can see where everyone is coming from...too many in all the publications.

I love afghans and I don't think they ever go out of style.

[soar]

I'd like to see some light lacy easy simple but funky tho not too wayout summer tops to make for my :manyheart daughter who is a very trendy 25

I don't make stuff for myself usually but I'd like some trendy tops/jackets cos tho I might be over 50 and crochet I don't want to be thought of as frumpy :eek !!!!

[meadowlake23]

okay I have a very specific type that I would like to see, a long sweater/duster type jacket for a 6-10 year old girl nothing fury just sturdy and warm.....plus everything everyone else said oh yeah and a pull over hooded sweater for little boys 3-8 finding hoods is almost impossible for that age. :hook I LOVE this thread!!

[bubblefizz]

Funky sexy tops for WOMEN!!! :clap :cheer :clap
and yes NO scarfs or mittens or ponchos they bore me stupid :lol
and yes rarer (is that the word) the better the fancier the better the sexier the better
im getting my penneth worth in...did ya notice lol. :yay

[JCB]

Wow... what a great thread! I would love to see more purse/bag patterns... ones in somewhat unusual shapes... not just a rectangle. Even more specifically, I'd like patterns designed to be felted.

One thing I'd like to see more often, is actual measurements of different components of a design. For instance, instead of saying: Round 35, start decreasing", I'd like to see "When piece measures xx number of inches, start decreasing". That way, if your gauge is not spot on, you will still be able get the dimensions correct.

That's my 3 cents worth (inflation doncha know :)

Joan

[Shelleden]

I want to see a funfur granny square scarf with a matching poncho done in disco with a boa trim.


No, seriously I'd have to just echo what everyone else is saying.

:rofl That made me chuckle! :lol

[Shelleden]

Wow... what a great thread! I would love to see more purse/bag patterns... ones in somewhat unusual shapes... not just a rectangle. Even more specifically, I'd like patterns designed to be felted.

One thing I'd like to see more often, is actual measurements of different components of a design. For instance, instead of saying: Round 35, start decreasing", I'd like to see "When piece measures xx number of inches, start decreasing". That way, if your gauge is not spot on, you will still be able get the dimensions correct.

That's my 3 cents worth (inflation doncha know :)

Joan
I love this thread! I'm jotting down ideas for future pattern designs!! I think I'm on the right track - I have a leaflet coming out in July for 3 large-size sweaters for women. (I wish it didn't take publishers so long to get these books out - I signed the contract for these designs last summer!) Also, here's a Bustier Purse. How's that for fun & funky? Not your usual rectangle sewed together! :D The pattern will be on CPR shortly. I don't know if you can see the beaded fringe on the front. I'll post better pics later when I get the pattern finished. Keep those requests & ideas coming! I'm listening!! :hook:hug
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d51/Shelleden/BustierPursewithbeadedtrim.jpg http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d51/Shelleden/BustierPurseback.jpg

[queen_mo]

MENS MENS MENS. And I mean good stuff. Wonderful, sexy, drapy sweaters that he would actually wear!!!!!!

[HYATT]

I would love to see more in women dresses, all styles and shapes

[mama24boyz]

I agree with the BOYS! I can't find anything for my 3 yos to 11yo .

Also tween girls are hard to find stuff for.

[christinanthemum]

Mens - not afghans.

See, my husband thinks crochet sweaters on guys looks gay, and most patterns I've seen do (or would on him, he's a scrawny red-headed computer geek).
Anything for that type of mindset, he's a great guy, but not into sports, so typical "guy crochet" doesn't work for him.

Patterns/Ideas there would be wonderful!

[Kate's Mom]

I'm on the lookout for nice toddler clothes that aren't chunky sweaters. My daughter is a 2-3T and there isn't a lot of stuff to make for her that she can wear in the warm weather and look nice.

[loremor]

I agree with everyone...more realistic wearables in natural fibers that don't cost a lot of $$$. Seamless would be nice! lacy, girly patterns too.

[Michaels Gram]

I agree with everyone and would like to tell about a specific thing I have. I bought a simple shell stitch sweater from Kohl's last year and it has a cami under it because its an open pattern and it has become a uniform to me. Everywhere I go people ask if I made itbecause they know I crochet. The reason I bought it was I was going to try and duplicate it but without a pattern and not knowing what weight of thread was used I gave up.

I like to be challenged a little when I making something instead of counting 1,2,3,4,5 turn, 1,2,3,4,5 turn, after a while you just lose interest and want to get it finished so you can move on to the next project so it would be nice to see some new things.

I hope there are some designer's reading this thread and that they take heed and listen to what we would like to see. I refuse to pay a lot of money anymore for a magazine that has maybe one pattern that I would use and the rest just go to waste.

[nevadamama]

I love making novelty items ....... tissue covers, pot holders, candles, hanging towels, toys, dolls, pin cushions & holiday decorations.
:crocheting

[ferretlady]

Wow, what a great thread! I'll add my agreement to many others - I would LOVE to see some nice short-sleeve top patterns. I'm not comfortable wearing tank tops any more at my age. I've seen some darling tank & cami patterns out there, but some of us are older than 20 now (grin) and can't wear that sort of thing.

I do love making afghans, scarves, etc -- nobody is belittling those items, I don't think -- BUT there are sooooo many patterns already available for those - let's see some new types of designs that we don't already have 9,873,694 patterns for.

Yarn substitutions would be *wonderful*. I'm on a tight budget & no way I could spend big bucks to make a garment, especially since we very rarely go out - no point in making a $75 top, just to sit around the house in. But I would like to make a few simple basic short-sleeve tops, if I had a nice pattern & could come up with an affordable yet nice yarn to make it in.... So list the fancier high-end yarn for those who want it, but give us some ideas of substitutes that would work well also.

[angelzeyez]

I am sure my post is way late, but I have to agree with everyone else...something "trendy" and practical. Dresses would be awesome or tunic and skirt sets (like Lucy Chin)...something you might find in a high end boutique shop that you can make yourself without spending $500 for the outfit. I also have a thing for slippers...cute slippers (not the kind your mama makes). There are a few crocheters on Etsy.com that make absolutely adorable slippers for babies that would be great for older children as well as adults.

[naburu]

I am looking for a sleeveless tunic/tabard type of thing.

Would love to see this.

[KarrieMcD]

New here, but looking through the many patterns. Some simple vests for children (especially boys would be nice). Or some nice summer tank tops for women.
Something that we can aplique something on to that isn't too over bearing.