Need help creating a small/simple pattern

[simonssez]

I've never actually created my own pattern before, thus the reason I'm stuck! If someone could help I'd really be appreciative. I'm working on an afghan for a charity auction coming up in early april. The "body" of the afghan is almost finished and will be in red, white, and blue with a star theme. I now need a pattern to make a small (probably 3 or 4") submarine in black to stitch onto the blanket and stuff for a 3d effect but I just can't seem to make the pattern work. I tried to alter a square pattern I have that has a submarine in the middle, but it just turned out a mess when I tried to downscale it. If anyone has any suggestions, I'd love to hear them. Thanks so much!

[crochetfun]

If it is just sewn on, perhaps you could use the same pattern with thinner yarn/thread or just smaller hook?

[simonssez]

I did try that. I used a small steel hook and filet/thread crochet thread but it just wouldn't "take the shape". And the pattern I have for the square with the sub in the middle is either a 12"x12" or a 14"x14" so I know just using thinner yarn is out. Even my mom who is a whiz with this stuff hasn't been able to help. I fear I'll have to just hang up the idea of putting the subs on it which is what was going to "make" it different.

[Empress Busy Bee]

Have you tried making your own graph?

http://www.microrevolt.org/knitPro/

[simonssez]

I've never seen that! Thanks for the link...I've never seen a resource like that. Now if I can figure it out I'll be in good shape!