Mile-A-Minute CAL

[barbn77]

Would anyone be interested in doing a Mile-A-Minute CAL with me?:hook Hubby decided he wants a king size afghan that i can't do in one piece and he did'nt want squares, so Mile-A-Minute it is!!! the pattern i'm doing is HERE (http://www.bevscountrycottage.com/mile.html) i'm doing the inside dk. plum and the border in black.

I made a couple buttons for anyone who is interested there below:yay for you to save and load to your blog if you want them:clap


http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b144/barbn77/th_mileamin2.jpg (http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b144/barbn77/mileamin2.jpg)


http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b144/barbn77/th_mile-a-min1.jpg (http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b144/barbn77/mile-a-min1.jpg)



Hope to see some of you here :cheer :cheer :cheer

Some patterns for Mile-A-Minutes are at Crochet Pattern Central and as i find more i'll link here:jumpyay


A couple Links I found,

Mile-A-Minute Granny (http://www.allfreecrafts.com/crochet/mile-a-minute-afghan.shtml)

Mile-A-Minute Cotton Throw (http://www.freepatterns.com/fp_pdfs/Other/Crochet/mileaminute.pdf)

Mile-A-Minute Baby Afghan (http://www.caron.com/projects/cs/pro_cs_milemin.html)

[barbn77]

I got 1 strip done yesterday, here's a pic of what it looks like at the point, it's a really fast pattern, i just might do another one after this :)




http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b144/barbn77/Crochet%20album/th_mileamin001.jpg (http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b144/barbn77/Crochet%20album/mileamin001.jpg)

[mimi_mia]

I really like the idea of this CAL but is there anything else other than afghans to make as a mile-a-minute!!! I don't want to make a blanket :blush

[barbn77]

Hi Maria :)...I think i seen bookmarks that were mile-a-minute patterns here's a couple links


Bookmark (http://mysite.verizon.net/vze8mnnp/mmbookmark.html)

Bookmark #2 (http://www.craftbits.com/viewProject.do?projectID=1123)
You could even just make one strip of a patterns you like and make it a scarf, that would look really nice too:manyheart Hope you decide to join me here:clap

[Qmare]

Very pretty, Barb!

[mimi_mia]

Thanks Barb, I guess I'm in on the CAL, I'll whip up a few bookmarks!! LOL :hook

[barbn77]

Welcome to the CAL Maria:clap

[ttbookjunkie]

Hi all-
I am unfamilar with Mile-a minute I clicked the links that were posted and it looks like you make an afghan in strips instead of squares which sound neat and a lot faster. Did I get that right? I would love to join you all, I have begun Christmas knitting (this year is blankets for four people) and I love having different techniques to make different blankets.

[barbn77]

Hi Amanda, yup it's done in strips and it's a lot faster, and easier if it's a lg. afghan you want to make, Welcome to the CAL:yay

[ttbookjunkie]

Thanks so much Barb...now to pick the colors...

[barbn77]

Let us know when you have your colors :)

[Scorpio59]

Here's a pattern for you:

http://crochet.about.com/library/weekly/aa061398.htm

[susandoty48]

I just seen this Cal and I would really love to join this one. I have never done a mile-a-minute afghan yet. I think this would be lots of fun.

[barbn77]

Lorraine - Ty for the link, i never seen that one yet, it's pretty


Susan - Welcome:clap , i've never done a Mile-A-Minute until now either i really like the pattern i chose, let us know what pattern your doing and your colors when you choose them :)

[susandoty48]

I think I'm going to do the same pattern that you are doing, I really like that one alot but I haven't decided tonight yet what colors, I'll let you know tomorrow ok?

[vernzap]

I would love to join in this CAL. I want to make a mile-a minute toddler sized blanket for one of the kids in my sister's preschool class. This CAL will be just the thing to get me going... and make me finish! :D

[jchllm]

I was just thinking today about what new project I would start and I really wanted to do a mile-a-minute..........looks like I have an excuse to do it now!

Now just to pick out a pattern and colors.
I'll let y'all know.

Thanks for the 'kick in the pants'.
:hook :manyheart :hook

[barbn77]

Welcome Veronica and Lisa...This is quickly becoming my fave. afghan patterns, i'm almost done my 2nd strip, if i actually worked on it tonight instead of playing on the comp. i could have it done LOL

You can easily do a strip a day on these :)

Let us know your patterns and colors when you choose them:clap


Susan - Can't wait to see your colors, i'd like to see the dffrent varieties the same pattern can make:D

[crochetlady]

hi everybody,
Just saw this Cal today and as I am busy coaching my kids for their exams this gives me a nice project to do :) Also I think I might mahe a MAM bag instead of the afghan! Thansk for all the great links posted!

Will let you know what colours I pick and which pattern I am using tomorrow. I saw a MAM style basket done in some japanese book.. so off to hunt it down now:)

Hugs
Vims

[Scorpio59]

I am seriously considering joining you in this MAM-a-long.
I want to make an afghan for my 22 year old nephew for Christmas.
I've already started on his 19 year old sister's afghan. Hers is made up of 12" blocks.
I like portability in a project!

I pulled out a book I have : Leisure Arts Mile-A-Minute Afghans (40 designs - contest winners) It's leaflet #3144. Lots of beautiful patterns. I'm taking it to work with me to contemplate. I'll let you know the big decision tonight !

[barbn77]

Vims and Lorraine - Welcome aboard :clap this is gonna be a fun CAL:hook


I've finnished another strip last night, it just needs to have the border done, which is'nt much :) Doing a strip a day I should have this done next week!!

I'll start a diffrent pattern when i'm done this one, I have some purply/blue baby yarn (Bernat Softee baby in Denim) and white/pink/lilac varigated (Bernat Softee Baby also but can't remember the name!!) that i'm going to use for the 2nd one:hook

[barbn77]

Here's a link to a few MAM's at about.com


click here (http://crochet.about.com/od/mileaminute/)

[crochetaj]

I'd like to join but I have a couple of questions!

Firstly, this would be my first CAL, so I'm excited about that!

Secondly, about the MAM... does each strip *have* to be constructed from a long foundation chain, then worked in rounds? Or can each strip be a small foundation chain of about 20 or so, then worked upwards (like a long skinny scarf) and then a couple of rows of rounds around it, then joined with the other strips?

The reason I ask is about 20 years ago when I was younger I watched my mother crochet a MAM pattern, but it was worked similar to this except each panel was fatter than 20 chains across. It was maybe 40.

If this would be okay for a MAM afghan, I'd like to design my own. I have some ideas in my head for something I think would be quite pretty, but just wanted to make sure that it would still count as a MAM. :D

Thanks everyone! I'm very excited about possibly doing a CAL with you!:hook

[barbn77]

AJ - Welcome, i'm sure if your making your own you can do it anyway you want:yay The one i'm doing is like a skinny scarf with a little border done after, the link is in the 1st post if you want to see itLet us know what pattern your doing and your colors when you choose them :)

[jchllm]

I've decided to do the MAM that is linked in the first post. I do have a question though.

In the pattern it says to stop after 75 shells. Is the shell the (3dc, 3ch, 3dc), or it is it half of that? So, in other words, is (3dc, 3ch, 3dc) one or two shells?

I know I sound dumb but..........:think

[barbn77]

Lisa are you doing the same one as me??


If you are do the 3dc, ch2, 3dc and than the last dc in the space like you do before you turn, just don't turn end it there....does that make sense?

[jchllm]

Lisa are you doing the same one as me??


If you are do the 3dc, ch2, 3dc and than the last dc in the space like you do before you turn, just don't turn end it there....does that make sense?

Not really. Oops...I thought I was doing the same one as you but I'm doing the baby one....maybe just making it a bit bigger. It says to end the row after 75 shells, I'm likely going to make it to 100 shells.....just need to know if (3dc, 3ch, 3dc) is one shell or two. Here is the pattern..... http://www.caron.com/projects/cs/pro_cs_milemin.html

[denny]

I would like to join in on this CAL. I will let you know what pattern I'm using and yarn colors. I need to go to the store tomorrow. Another good reason to get yarn!

[ttbookjunkie]

http://static.flickr.com/46/120425434_6f070a37fa_m.jpg

Hope everyone is having a great day so far. So I have decided that I am going to make a baby size blanket mosting DC strips 3 inches wide 30 inches long in various yellow and off white colors to be donated to Warm the World (and number 7 in my 25 things for charity this year).

[barbn77]

Lisa - Looking a the pattern (3dc,ch3, 3dc) is a shell, and too finish i just would'nt do the ch and turn at the end:yay


Denise - Welcome :elle

Amanda - Those colors will make a really nice baby blanket, can't wait to see a finished pic:hook

[vernzap]

I'm giong to the store today to pick out my yarn and pattern. I think I'm going to use Caron Simply Soft, but once I get to the store I'm always tempted to try something else... maybe I'll buy a couple of differnt yarns just because :devil

[mimi_mia]

Another good MAM strip is the Ginko Bookmark that Drew has for free on his free pattern page, scroll down and you can find it there! http://thecrochetdudepatterns.blogspot.com/
I've made 3 strips so far out of cotton, I'll make a dishcloth 1st, then I'll try the bookmark.....:hook

I've never made any MAM strips before, they're fun and quick, very addictive :manyheart

[barbn77]

Thanks for the pattern link Maria:yay

[denny]

I went to the store and picked out my yarn-----Caron SS Embroidery Print, Rubine Red, and maybe Grape. My pattern is Nostalgia in MAM for Everyone by Leisure Arts. It has two versions, one solid and the other calls for two colors but I may go with three. I'll have to see once I start.

[barbn77]

Denise - I looked at the caron site and those colors are really pretty :), is caron simply soft a nice yarn to use? I can't find it here but lot's of people seem to like it:yay

[crochetaj]

Well, I'll put my two cents in on Caron Simply Soft -- I LOVE that yarn! It's ever so soft and glides just beautifully over the hook, which actually makes me go faster! And for finished products, it's just stunning. Creates stunning afghans that drape beautifully and are warm without being too heavy.

Not to mention it has a TON of color choices and it's so inexpensive! :D

[barbn77]

AJ - I knew Caron was an inexpensive yarn and i wanted to try it, do ya think i can find it??? NOOOO LOL not at Wal-Mart or Michaels:( oh well...


How's everyone coming along?...I have 2 strips done and bordered so far and tonight i'm going to join them, and then join as i go, not sure how wide i need it to be so doing it this way is easiest I think:hook

[vernzap]

I really like the Simply Soft yarn, too. It is so easy to work with, it washes well, and it looks (and feels) great. I highly recommend it.

[crochetaj]

Just wanted to post my progress so far :D

I've completed one strip and am going to take a break for a day or so on it before I dive into the next one. I'm designing this myself and have had a bit of trouble getting the edging the way I wanted it. All is good now and written down. :D:hook

http://photos1.blogger.com/hello/219/10095/450/blankets-232b.jpg

Here's the entry on my blog for the full story: MAM blog (http://crochetaj.blogspot.com/2006/03/mam-cal.html)

Oops, forgot to include what colors and yarn type. Colors (as you can see) are purple and white in Bernat Softee Baby.

--

edited to include details of yarn

[barbn77]

AJ - That's so pretty:manyheart i was thinking of using Bernat Softee baby for my next one :)

[crochetaj]

Thanks! :D

I love Softee. It's so soft and everyone I've made a baby afghan for with the yarn just loves it, too.

[Stacy25]

Oooh I may have to get in on this! I need to make a baby afghan for BIL and his g/f, their baby shower is in 3 weeks. :eek

I really love that baby MAM project from the Caron site, and I have 2 colors that I just used for my daughter's sweetie pie dress that would be perfect. I need to finish up 2 other projects first, but I should be done with them by Monday. :hook

[denny]

A.J.that is a beautiful pattern. I'm glad that you are writting it down. It has a very feminine look to it. Barb, the colors are nice and bright, not my usual choice. It will be for my six year old GD and I think it looks like a rainbow which she loves. The yarn is working up real nice. It does seem to glide across your hook. I'm using a metal hook, I haven't tried it with the Crystal hooks yet.

[barbn77]

Welcome Stacey :)

[ttbookjunkie]

AJ great work. Lovely colors.

[crochetaj]

Thank you bookjunkie and denny! :D:D

[crochetaj]

Hey ya'll -- another update! I know I said I wasn't going to work on this for a few days, but I decided to start strip #2 while it was still fresh in my head. I just finished it up and everything matches up! Same size and width and everything. I placed them side by side and I'm SO excited with how it looks so far. I did a little measuring and I figure just two more strips and it should be good. Then to join and border around the body of it.

Like I said earlier, this is my first mile-a-minute and my own design, which makes it doubly special to me. :c9

[Jannyberry]

Hello there everyone:hook

I am working on a Mile A Minute Baby rug
For my nephews soon to be born baby:yay

I love mile a minute crochet:dance
:hug Janny

[barbn77]

Welcome Janny:yay

[mimi_mia]

Well since I was only making a dishcloth to start, let me be the first to post a picture of a FO!
I have never done the MAM before so I hope it's alright, I didn't really follow a pattern, I just did as they say......winged it!!


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b376/mimi_mia/MAMdishcloth.jpg

[barbn77]

Maria - I lOVE:manyheart those colors togeather, that's very pretty:clap

[ttbookjunkie]

http://static.flickr.com/1/122035083_4a5706bda4_m.jpg

Two strips done and 8 more to go! The colors remind me of Thanksgiving. I decided to weave the ends in and sew them together as I go because experience tells me that if I do not then the blanket either will never be put together or all the ends will be hanging out. This is a fun project, thanks Barb for putting this together.:hook

[ttbookjunkie]

Maria your dishcloth came out so great! Neat colors.


Well since I was only making a dishcloth to start, let me be the first to post a picture of a FO!
I have never done the MAM before so I hope it's alright, I didn't really follow a pattern, I just did as they say......winged it!!


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b376/mimi_mia/MAMdishcloth.jpg

[Stacy25]

Great colors, everyone!

I've finished 2 projects I needed to get out of the way and am hoping to have a 3rd done by tonight- I really want to be able to focus on this. I picked up a couple more skeins of yarn yesterday- I'm going with LB Baby Soft in Bubblegum, and Carousel print. I think it will be very cute. :c9 I hope so, anyway! I'm itching to get started.

[barbn77]

Amanda -- That's looking good so far:clap Stacy - I looked at the LB site and those colors are very pretty togeather:manyheart

[vernzap]

Looks like I need to get movin'!

AJ~ I love your design! It's very pretty, and the colors are lovely.

Maria~ How cute! Congrats on your first MAM.

Amanda~ Very pretty! It reminds me of Thanksgiving, too. I bet you'll love using it this fall.

I was going to get some housework done, but I think I'll crochet... just for a liilt bit. :devil

[SPRAT605]

OK.... I wasn't going to do it.... but I LOVE MAM! And I can't resist! So I"m in! I think I will do a baby ghan and will look for my MAM book for a pattern. The last MAM I did was a poncho and it went so fast! Cant wait to figure out yarn and pattern! Update later!

[crochetaj]

Thank you, Veronica! :D

[Stacy25]

Thanks, Barb.
I got 3 projects finished so I'm fairly clear to start...in fact, I started yesterday. :lol I made one strip last night and it's cute...I'm not really thrilled with the pattern, though, so I'm going to check out CPC to see if she has any other baby MAM patterns...if not, I'll have to Google. I only have 3 weeks! :eek

[barbn77]

Welcome Jackie :elle

[Lady_of_Roses]

I'd like to join but I have a couple of questions!

Firstly, this would be my first CAL, so I'm excited about that!

Secondly, about the MAM... does each strip *have* to be constructed from a long foundation chain, then worked in rounds? Or can each strip be a small foundation chain of about 20 or so, then worked upwards (like a long skinny scarf) and then a couple of rows of rounds around it, then joined with the other strips?

The reason I ask is about 20 years ago when I was younger I watched my mother crochet a MAM pattern, but it was worked similar to this except each panel was fatter than 20 chains across. It was maybe 40.

If this would be okay for a MAM afghan, I'd like to design my own. I have some ideas in my head for something I think would be quite pretty, but just wanted to make sure that it would still count as a MAM. :D

Thanks everyone! I'm very excited about possibly doing a CAL with you!:hook

In an book of award winning mile-a-minute patterns (there's a picture of a braided one on the front) by Leisure Arts, there's a pattern for a mile a minute afghan in the style you described. It has a center strip worked in various jewel tones kind of like stained glass, and then is bordered by black, has black criss-crosses like tied up shoes and is joined. I don't have the book, but that unique pattern caught my eye.

[crochetaj]

Hey that sounds neat! One of these days I'll have to see if I can find some of my mother's old crochet pattern books. I'm sure there are a ton in there I'd enjoy working on.

And besides.... who wouldn't want to have more patterns?? ;)

[misticalturtle]

Hi there!

I have had this pattern for quite some time. I have wanted to make a blanket with every since I found it. I will commit to it which is huge considering I have never finished an afghan before.

Wish me luck

Mist

[Jimmie Lu]

Oh I am so in on this cal but first I have to go to Mexico. Oh well I love it there. I made a mile a minute for the amegios project and loved how fast it went and I used all scraps it is sooooo colorful. Hunh there may be a picture of it on the Amegios blog it would be listed as Issabells gahn. So I have a bunch of scraps and am ready for another one. Yippeeee!!

[barbn77]

welcome Mist and Jimmie Lu, we'll be here when you get back from Mexico:yay

[crochetaj]

Hey! How's everyone doing?

Just wanted to post an update - I'm almost done with mine! Got a couple more rounds of border to do and then weaving in ends. This has truly been a learning experience for me with designing it myself, but also with the ways that MAMs work and join. I'd never successfully joined ANYthing together before. I'm much more comfortable with afghans that are done all in one piece so this was definitely a departure for me.

BUT I loved it! What a great way to just jump right in -- when you know others are "there" with you. :D I'm definitely going to do more CALs. Such a fun way to do this!

I'll post pics a little later when I get this thing finished. I'm hoping I'll have it done by the afternoon sometime.

Hope everything is going smoothly for everyone else! :hook

[Scorpio59]

In an book of award winning mile-a-minute patterns (there's a picture of a braided one on the front) by Leisure Arts, there's a pattern for a mile a minute afghan in the style you described. It has a center strip worked in various jewel tones kind of like stained glass, and then is bordered by black, has black criss-crosses like tied up shoes and is joined. I don't have the book, but that unique pattern caught my eye.

I have that leaflet and that 'ghan is pretty :) There is another MAM in there that is just rows of dc in an aran color with a simple diamond pattern of bobbles all up it's length, them bordered with a contrasting color. Another pattern looks like granny squares but they're really not! It's leaflet #3144- (30 Afghans).

[Lady_of_Roses]

I have that leaflet and that 'ghan is pretty :) There is another MAM in there that is just rows of dc in an aran color with a simple diamond pattern of bobbles all up it's length, them bordered with a contrasting color. Another pattern looks like granny squares but they're really not! It's leaflet #3144- (30 Afghans).

*nods* I only really liked the Braided Miles and the Stained glass one. I got the Braided miles in another book.. Best of Red Heart Crocheted Afghans.. which meant only one pattern in the MaM book I liked. I dropped a _lot_ of my allowance on pattern books over the last month or so and it doesn't go over well when I buy something for a single solitary pattern. I'm hoping the stained glass will appear in another compendium type pattern book so I eventually get it. :hook

[mimi_mia]

Veronica thanks

Maria~ How cute! Congrats on your first MAM.
I've never seen a braided MAM, does anyone have a picture??

[crochetaj]

I've finished! Here's the entry on my blog if you want to read it (and see more pics!) CLICK HERE for MAM blog (http://crochetaj.blogspot.com/2006/04/its-finished.html)

Here's a pic:

http://photos1.blogger.com/hello/219/10095/450/blankets-260b.jpg

http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7703/2436/1600/blankets-248b.0.jpg

http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7703/2436/1600/blankets-250b.jpg

Thanks for starting this CAL, Barb! I had a lot of fun with this :)

[denny]

AJ you project is beautiful:clap I love the colors. My 10 yr.old GD loves purple, her birthday is in Feb. and it is her birthstone.

[mimi_mia]

Wow, awesome, I love the way it turned out :manyheart

[barbn77]

AJ - That's beautiful i LOVE it:manyheart

[JulieKay]

AJ -
I'm not in on this CAL , but happened to see your photos. WOW, is that pretty !
Am I understanding that you made this up on your own ? Are you planning on sharing the pattern or was it from a book ? It is just lovely . :)

[crochetaj]

Thank you everyone!! I appreciate your kind comments so much!

Yup Julie, I made this one up on my own. Eventually once I work the kinks out of my pattern notes, I'll share! :)

Thanks again!

[Scorpio59]

Veronica thanks

I've never seen a braided MAM, does anyone have a picture??

There's a picture here (http://www.purplekittyyarns.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=367) The green braided MAM can be seen on the bottom right of the page.

[barbn77]

I've got 3 strips done and bordered, now i just need to sew them togeather to see how many more strips i need to do, might do that tomorrow:hook


AJ - I just looked at your blog, all your baby afghans are BEAUTIFUL:manyheart

[denny]

I have finished two strips and they are crocheted together as you go which saves me from sewing them. The braided MAM shown looks like it is crochet together in a similar way. By the way the one in the upper corner caught my interest. Next project maybe?!

[vernzap]

Okay, I stayed up way too late last night watching LOTR and finishing the first strip of my MAM 'ghan. I've posted pictures here (http://veronica.ectospheno.com/?page_id=107). The colors are deep violet and off white not the funky colors you see in the picture. I made this 'ghan for my dd a few years ago. It was the first thing I ever crocheted. The first strip I crocheted took me three days to finish. This one took me three and a half hours! :lol

[mimi_mia]

Veronica, that strip is beautiful it'll make a beautiful 'ghan!! :hook

[crochetaj]

Oooh that's pretty, Veronica!!! Nice work! :manyheart

[JulieKay]

AJ -
Hurry and work out the kinks !!! :lol That is lovely !!! I want one -- here I go again, guys . Up to my EYEBALLS in CAL's and I want to do another one . GEEZ LOUISE . I'm like an alcoholic. Somebody stop me .


Veronica- it sounds like you're picking up speed, if you can make the strips so much faster now ! Good job !:hook

[Qmare]

Just wanted to post my progress so far :D

I've completed one strip and am going to take a break for a day or so on it before I dive into the next one. I'm designing this myself and have had a bit of trouble getting the edging the way I wanted it. All is good now and written down. :D:hook

http://photos1.blogger.com/hello/219/10095/450/blankets-232b.jpg

Here's the entry on my blog for the full story: MAM blog (http://crochetaj.blogspot.com/2006/03/mam-cal.html)

Oops, forgot to include what colors and yarn type. Colors (as you can see) are purple and white in Bernat Softee Baby.

--

edited to include details of yarn

Wow, AJ... that is so pretty! I've never seen a MAM worked that way. Stunning!

Edit to add... Jeezo , AJ... Do you sleep? I just saw the FO at your blog. Wow. It's gorgeous. You are an afghan machine! Great stuff you make. Your blog is really nice!

[Qmare]

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b376/mimi_mia/MAMdishcloth.jpg

Cute! A MAM dishie!

[Qmare]

http://static.flickr.com/1/122035083_4a5706bda4_m.jpg

Two strips done and 8 more to go! The colors remind me of Thanksgiving. I decided to weave the ends in and sew them together as I go because experience tells me that if I do not then the blanket either will never be put together or all the ends will be hanging out. This is a fun project, thanks Barb for putting this together.:hook

Nice going, Amanda. I love those colors!

[crochetaj]

JulieKay -- Thank you! I'm working on it and will definitely get the pattern posted as soon as I can! :D

Qmare -- Thank you! lol, yup, insomnia is great for crochet projects! ;)

[crochetaj]

Well, guys, this CAL has converted me to a HUGE MAM fan! ;)

So I decided to start another one today! As you can see from my siggy, I've got 3 strips done and joined.

This one is another of my own design, but I'm sure it's been done before in one way or another. Basically it's a granny MAM.

Here's a pic:
http://photos1.blogger.com/hello/219/10095/450/blankets-267.jpg

And CLICK HERE (http://crochetaj.blogspot.com/2006/04/here-we-go-again.html) for the entry on my blog about it.

These CALs are addicting!!!

[barbn77]

LOL what have I done to you statrting this CAL AJ??? LOL your a MAM-aholic!!!


I love that second one your starting, i really like how they are turning out with baby yarn, i'm going to do my next one in baby yarn now after seeing yours:c9

[JulieKay]

Mia- love the colors -- the pink is beautiful !

And Amanda - what type yarn did you use to get the variegated one ? I don't remember ever seeing that anywhere before . It is pretty ! It's make a lovely Fall bedspread!

Holey Moley AJ- You are a CROCHET MACHINE !!!! You can really crank them out , can't you ? Another pretty one -- you know we'll be bugging you for this design too, don't you ?

[denny]

I finished the third strip and have started the fourth. I don't have a camera yet so can't send picture. I hope to get a "cheap" one at the end of the week.

[SPRAT605]

I finished my first strip too! I decide to do a baby ghan using red heart babysoft yarn in a blue/green/white varigated , blue solid and green solid. I pick a pattern that I Just love.... I need to figure out how to post pic on here!

[SPRAT605]

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j101/sprat605/april2006046.jpg

I wonder if I did this right???? Please check it out and let me know if it works....K??? :manyheart This pattern didn't have a name.... just a number... so I decided to call it "crazy daisy, baby!".

[TamiCrochets]

i want to do this one with you guys..



i like the dark plum and black i think i'm going to try that in kingsize too as we have a king size bed :) it sounds cute

[vernzap]

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j101/sprat605/april2006046.jpg

I wonder if I did this right???? Please check it out and let me know if it works....K??? :manyheart This pattern didn't have a name.... just a number... so I decided to call it "crazy daisy, baby!".

It works, and I love the name! :) The design and colors you chose are really pretty. It's going to be a lovely 'ghan when you are done. :hook

Tami~ Welcome to the group!

[crochetaj]

Jackie, I LOVE that pattern! So pretty. And nice pic, too!

[JulieKay]

Very pretty , Jackie :)

You must also have some photography talent -- you had such a nice springtime background going with the afghan !

[denny]

SPRAT65

What yarn are you using? I love the colors and the pattern.:h5

[barbn77]

Jackie - That looks really pretty can't wait to see it finnished :)


Welcome Tami !!

[mimi_mia]

Jackie I love it, your "crazy daisy, baby" is so beautiful, love the photograph too!!

[SPRAT605]

Hey thanks guys! I was my first attempt at adding a picture! I am so glad that it worked! I dropped my old digital camera and broke the battery cover door... it still works but it was only a matter of time. So I brought it to best buy to see if they could repair it.... $200.00 to repair!:2eek wow! So I was forsed to buy a new one! I am having lots of fun with it and yes it does take wonderful pictures!

_Denice - I am using "soft baby" by red heart in "laddie print(the varigated) and "sky blue" and "lime". It is the first time I am using this yarn and I really like it! It seems to work up nice!

[Scorpio59]

Well, guys, this CAL has converted me to a HUGE MAM fan! ;)

So I decided to start another one today! As you can see from my siggy, I've got 3 strips done and joined.

This one is another of my own design, but I'm sure it's been done before in one way or another. Basically it's a granny MAM.

Here's a pic:
http://photos1.blogger.com/hello/219/10095/450/blankets-267.jpg

And CLICK HERE (http://crochetaj.blogspot.com/2006/04/here-we-go-again.html) for the entry on my blog about it.

These CALs are addicting!!!

AJ- Are you attaching these as you go along?
Very pretty !

[crochetaj]

Yup! I'm doing the flat braid join, which works nicely as a join as you go thing. i'm liking it because then there's less to do at the end (which for me always seems so overwhelming to have so many things to join up.)

And thank you!! :D

[barbn77]

How's everyone doing? I'm almost done the center part of the 4th strip, I love how fast this is going :manyheart

[crochetlady]

Oh wow!! I love how everyone's mam is turning out!! I finally figured out what pattern I wanted to use . Its from a japanese book but luckily it has symbols so I can figure out. Its kinda like daisy flowers(made with chains) so i guess it will go quickly. I have decided to use white homespun and green chenille thick and quick for the edges for this project(enough of stashing it away). Will post a picture of a strip tomorrow.

hugs
Vims

[crochetlady]

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j101/sprat605/april2006046.jpg

I wonder if I did this right???? Please check it out and let me know if it works....K??? :manyheart This pattern didn't have a name.... just a number... so I decided to call it "crazy daisy, baby!".


I love the pattern you have chosen! The colors are just beautiful and will be gorgeous when assembled :yay

hugs
Vims

[crochetlady]

I've finished! Here's the entry on my blog if you want to read it (and see more pics!) CLICK HERE for MAM blog (http://crochetaj.blogspot.com/2006/04/its-finished.html)

Here's a pic:

http://photos1.blogger.com/hello/219/10095/450/blankets-260b.jpg

http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7703/2436/1600/blankets-248b.0.jpg

http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7703/2436/1600/blankets-250b.jpg

Thanks for starting this CAL, Barb! I had a lot of fun with this :)

:clap:clap:clapbravo!!! you are amazing!! Loved everything in your blog ! Thanks for sharing and inspiring me!!!:hook

Hugs
Vims:manyheart

[jules1268]

Hi Everyone - Sorry to interupt but I was wondering what makes it a Mile-a-Minute? Is it because it is broken out into separate pieces and then attached? I had to research on the crochet along because I wasnt sure what that was either (found it in the archived CAL). Is there a thread with terms explained that is easy to find? I also found out what frogging was from reading a knitting mystery fiction book. Just wondering - I'm a self learned crocheter and havent been exposed to some of this stuff :)

Julie

[vernzap]

Hi Everyone - Sorry to interupt but I was wondering what makes it a Mile-a-Minute? Is it because it is broken out into separate pieces and then attached? I had to research on the crochet along because I wasnt sure what that was either (found it in the archived CAL). Is there a thread with terms explained that is easy to find? I also found out what frogging was from reading a knitting mystery fiction book. Just wondering - I'm a self learned crocheter and havent been exposed to some of this stuff :)

Julie

To make a MAM 'ghan you crochet long strips and then sew the strips together. Barb has a few examples in the first post to give you a good idea of what a MAM looks like. I don't know if there is a thread that explains all the crochet terms, but please ask if you have a question. This is a friendly group, and most of us are more than happy to help out. :hook

[crochetaj]

Thanks so much, crochetlady!! :D

[barbn77]

I changed the way i'm joining these togeather, i did'nt like how it looked just whip stitched so i'm trying something like how the Crochet Dude joins the Monet Squares Afghan shown here (http://thecrochetdudepatterns.blogspot.com/) (scroll down a little to find the Monet Afghan) i've added to the border of 1 and almost done the 2nd strip than i'll join them and see if that looks better i'll post a pic when i'm done:yay

[CB Potts]

I'd like to join this cal too! My sister is getting married in September, and I think an afghan would make an *awesome* wedding gift...I'll make a trip for yarn this weekend (Oh, the hardship!) and let you know what I get.

[SPRAT605]

AJ - You are a maniac! I can't believe you almost have two done already! They are both very beautiful. You are very talented. Are you thinking about selling your patterns? I would be interested. They both turned out great! There is a lady from crochetville that sells her patterns on e-bay.... she sells each of her patterns for $5.00 and whoeverbuys gets the pattern e-mailed. What a great business! No overhead and no postage! Just thought that your patterns are so lovely they would sell like hot cakes!

Vims - Thanks! I really am liking the pattern too! And the yarn is turning out to be very nice to work with too! Can't wait to see what you choose for pattern and yarn!

Barb - I love the way the Crochet Dude joined his xquares togather too! Easy AND beautiful!!! Can't wait to see your with that join too! Everyone MAM is so pretty so far!

Well I'm off to get ready to go to my C.L.A.W. (cafty women at work) group. We meet once a month on the second sat. It isn't just crochet.... everyone bring what ever craft project they happen to be working on at the time.... so it is fun to see what everyone is doing and to yak!

Later Ladies!

[SPRAT605]

Sorry!

I didn't mean to be "stuck up" Glad to have you join us CB Potts You'll have fun here... everyone is wonderfully friendly and helpful! So.... HI!!!!

[barbn77]

CB Potts - It's never too late to join these :) Welcome, let us know what pattern your doing and your colors when you decide :elle

[crochetaj]

Welcome CB! They'll pull you in and then you'll start doing more and more and more CAL's until you're lost in them! ;)

All kidding aside -- it's fun! And the Mile-A-Minute one is a great one to start with.

JACKIE -- thank you for the compliments! I've never thought about selling the patterns. I just figured I'd share them! I'd rather keep crochet as a fun hobby that I can share in with others who love it, too. :manyheart But thank you for saying they'd sell like hotcakes! That made my day. :c9

[crochetlady]

Hello ladies, here is my first of the 8 strips done for the bag that I am doing using MAM strips. I am using homespun in white for the daisies and edging with LB green chenille (thick and quick kind).

http://www.flickr.com/photos/44035398@N00/125585221/in/set-1834320/

hugs
Vims

[crochetaj]

WOW that's gorgeous!!:yay

[crochetlady]

Thanks AJ!! Not quite quick as you but I am getting there :)

hugs
Vims

[mimi_mia]

That's a great looking strip, can't wait to see the finished bag!! :hook

[barbn77]

vims - that's going to be a very pretty bag :)


I have 3 strips done and joined, but the camera went dead!! when i get new batteries i'll post a pic, i'm almost done the center part of the 4th strip

[Stacy25]

Wow, that bag is going to be gorgeous! Can't wait to see the finished product.

Well, I worked up 2 MAM strips already and I have to say I am not thrilled at all with the pattern. So I may be bowing out of this CAL, unless I can find another baby afghan pattern. :(

[crochetlady]

Wow, that bag is going to be gorgeous! Can't wait to see the finished product.

Well, I worked up 2 MAM strips already and I have to say I am not thrilled at all with the pattern. So I may be bowing out of this CAL, unless I can find another baby afghan pattern. :(



:hug Thanks Stacey and Barb! I too can't wait to see it finished! I have made 3 more strips now just 4 more to go!!! Hope you do find a nice pattern soon. will be too bad if you leave now... will it help if I stayed in here and made one more mam while you take your time and pick another mam project:think.. anyway hoping you would stay on:)

hugs
Vims

[vernzap]

Hello ladies, here is my first of the 8 strips done for the bag that I am doing using MAM strips. I am using homespun in white for the daisies and edging with LB green chenille (thick and quick kind).

http://www.flickr.com/photos/44035398@N00/125585221/in/set-1834320/

hugs
Vims

Very pretty! I love the green chenille you chose. Can't wait to see pics of your bag. :hook

[SPRAT605]

Vims - I love it! It is going to be splendisious! ( don't think that is a really word:yay ) I will be waiting with everyone else to see the finished product!

Stacy - I sure hope that you find a new pattern! I'd hate to see you "bow out!"

I on the other hand havent had anytime to get anymore done on my MAM! Dang! I wish I was filthy rich and didnt have to work and could spend all my time and money on yarn and projects! Anyone with me on that thought?

Well later girls!

[mimi_mia]

Stacy - I sure hope that you find a new pattern! I'd hate to see you "bow out!"

I on the other hand havent had anytime to get anymore done on my MAM! Dang! I wish I was filthy rich and didnt have to work and could spend all my time and money on yarn and projects! Anyone with me on that thought?

Well later girls!

I'm with you for sure, that would be the best to stay home and crochet, shop for yarn (all the types I dare not buy now) and loving it.

Stacy - don't bow out there is no time limit so you can find a pattern you like and make it then!!

[Stacy25]

Thanks, everyone. I'm definitely out, though. For now, anyway...I just found the cutest granny square pattern for a baby afghan so I'm going to do that for the shower, instead. I'm still interested in doing a MAM, but it's going to be put on hold until I have one of my projects finished.

[denny]

This is the MAM I am doing for my grandaughter. Any suggestions for the border color? I was thinking the blue or yellow.

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j168/crochetnan/th_000_0003.jpg (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j168/crochetnan/000_0003.jpg)

[tlisley]

I'm in! I already started a MAM this will help me stick to it and finish! My pattern is in the Leisure Arts booklet "Beginner's Guide: MAM Afghans" # 75010 its the Sculptured Shells pattern. My color (its a solid) is Bernat medium navy. I have one strip done so far and a second started.:hook

Traci

[SPRAT605]

Stacy - Sorry to see you not joining us in the MAM.... But I for one "admire" your "courage" and "strength" to be able to "bow out". I for onw have not got the will power to say no! LOL! I hope that you continue to drop in and check us out!?!:manyheart

Denny - Your MAM is beautiful! Very bright! I think Yellow would continue to brighten and blue would blend in more..... so if Your asking me .... I would do the yellow!

I still haven't found time to work on my MAM.... what do you ask???? How 'bout the time I am on this computer? Hmmmmmmm .... I guess I should get off and get to work!

Later Ladies!

[barbn77]

traci - welcome :)


denny -- I think yellow would keep it bright too:yay

[denny]

Jackie and Barb: I think my choice is going to be yellow. I agree that the blue would blend in too much, and the yellow will brighten it up. Thanks for the input.:)

[vernzap]

Traci~ Welcome to the group!

I haven't done too much work on my MAM lately, but hopefully I'll be able to work on it while the kids play outside this afternoon. There's nothing like sitting in the sun while crocheting. :hook

[Lollie2639]

Hi I think I will try doing a MAM as well. How many strips is everyone doing?????? This should be FUN!!!!!! I hope mine turns out!

[barbn77]

Here's a pic of the 3 strips i already have joined :)


http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b144/barbn77/Crochet%20album/th_mileamin2002.jpg (http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b144/barbn77/Crochet%20album/mileamin2002.jpg)

[tlisley]

Oooh! Its so pretty! I couldn't picture it before.
My goal is to finish my second strip today! I'll post if I make it! LOL

[Stacy25]

Very pretty, Barb! :hook

[tlisley]

Hey! I got it done! Yay me! Only 8 more to go!

[SPRAT605]

Good Morning ladies!

Barb - I love your purple! And I love black with anything! it has a way of making everything look distinctive. I really like the way you joined them too! I looked at crochetdude's site and I think i may have to try something similar with joining mine!

Traci - Did you get you next strip done? I can't wait to see a pic of it.....

CrochetRN - Can't wait to see what you pick out for pattern and yarn!

I think that the pic are the most fun to see in these forums... (well OK besides yaking!) It is soooooo cool to see colors put togather that I would have never dreamed of putting togather.... We are so limited to our own preferences that it is hard to think out of the box at times! It helps me to get a little funkier when I see someone elses imagination at work!

[tlisley]

Yep, got it done and joined!:hook The joining was a PIA...:yell I had to rip back the last half of my round 4 because I misread the pattern...ugh, you join as you go on this one and I finished out the pattern then went to join it and ... GRRRRR! :thair It was kind of confusing to me I've never done a project this big or a MAM, but once I figured out what to do it was a snap! I'll have to borrow a digital camera from my friend to get a pic. It's a dark color so I may have to play with it a bit to get it where you can see it very well.I'm so glad I joined this board and this CAL! I KNOW I would have thrown down that strip had I not had to "answer" (LOL) to you guys...;)

[barbn77]

I love that way of joining too, it's sooooo much faster and i like how it looks lacey, i joined my 63 afghan like that too (well it's only 4 sq. x 5 sq.) my sis seen it and wanted one that size for the computer chair so i joined them that way to make it seem a little bigger and i also put a border on it :)


Hubby picked out purple and black, he's wanted a purple/black blanket for almost a year but all the purples i seen were very pinkish and it seemed too girlyfor him and as soon as i seen the dk. plum color i told him he can finally have his blanket lol:yay

[SPRAT605]

Hey Barb... I am wondering... how do you go about putting a picture right on your message rather than putting just a sink on it? I am kind of new to the picture thing. I am just barely starting to figure out my blog. I love computers... but feel like I am out of touch with it! So I was asking because I don't totally understand all the lingo in the places where they have instructions.... I wish they had like "instructions for dummies" for both the picture thing and the blogs.

[barbn77]

Jackie -- I use Photobucket for my pics....once you've uploaded the pic to photobucket, right under the pic, and above the codes already there, will be a box beside the pic name, check mark it, than scroll to the bottom of the screen and there will be a button that says Generate HTML and IMG code, click it and a new window will open, highlight everything in the 3rd box that says IMG clickable thumbnails, paste that code in your message :)


I hope this helps if it does'nt let me know:yay i'm just figuring this out myself :)

[Jannyberry]

:yay Just popped in to say I am still working on the

Mile A Minute Baby rug:coo

:mdustJanny

[tlisley]

Well, I'm starting strip # 3! I won't have this one finished today though...lol!

[Jimmie Lu]

I started mine today and I have 1 strip almost done I am going to bring it on the plane with me so I should see progress soon!

[vernzap]

Still working on my MAM. It was supposed to be a toddler 'ghan, but I decided to make it adult sized instead.

[Crochet_Gram]

Well when this CAL started, I started a baby mam and it is over half finished. My DH asked me who it was for and I said "I don't know but in this family we will need it sooner or later." Sure enough, I got an invitation to a baby shower for someone Friday. LOL I can't make the shower but sure am glad I have this almost ready to send. LOL

[ttbookjunkie]

http://static.flickr.com/45/128593029_27eb0501ab_m.jpg

Four down and six to go... :hook

[vernzap]

Amanda~ it looks great! You're doing a wonderful job on it. :hook

[barbn77]

Amanda - that's looking good :)

[SPRAT605]

thanks barb! I'll give it a try and let you know! I love that there are real people that we can talk to in here and get advise! Thanks everyone!

Amanda.... you MAM is looking great.... where you doing a bag? cool colors! I love fall colors

[ttbookjunkie]

Thanks everyone for the compliments!

Jackie...I am making a baby blanket for charity but I think I might make a bag too!

Because I am trying to avoid writing my papers for class I have been playing on my computer and I made a couple more buttons for the CAL...


http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y24/coolpatterns/mambutton2.jpg

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y24/coolpatterns/mambuttton1.jpg




Thanks again Barb for starting it!:clap

[barbn77]

Amanda -- I love the buttons:manyheart

[SPRAT605]

OK.... here I go again feeling out of touch..... How can I use these buttons? Thanks for everyone's patience.:manyheart

[Jimmie Lu]

I have 2 rows done and a third near compleation. I love these gahns dont you?

[barbn77]

Jackie -- Do you have a blog to put the button onto???


I've got the center of the 4th strip done and half of the first border round done, I have'nt worked on it in a few days i'm a little behind LOL I recieved my copy of Scrap Afghans 2 and I was too impatient to start the Lace & Bobbles so i was working on that for a few days :):yay

[crochetlady]

just a note to tell you all that I have finished the strips for the bag and am up to the last two strips to sew together. I took a break to start the prairie star for the crochet a quilt CAL :) I should be posting the finished pic tomorrow hopefully. I have to line it but not going to do that right away:0)

I had so much fun in getting this done as this was my wim for a long long time:)

hugs
Vims

[Stacy25]

Congrats! Can't wait to see pictures.
:cheer

[denny]

Just a note to let you know I haven't forgotten this project. I ran out of the purple yarn and payday isn't until Friday. I have the last three strips done as far as I could go and just need the purple to finish fastening them. Then I just need to do the border. It is so aggrevating when you run out of yarn and money at the same time!:(

[tlisley]

Strip 3 is ready to be joined!! YAY!

[barbn77]

I have 4 strips done and joined now :) i'm going to add 1 more and see what hubby thinks, he'll probably want 2 more added he likes to totally wrap up in blankets LOL
Hope everyone is having a good day :hook

[crochetlady]

hello everyone! I am almost at the end now!! Just thought I would share the pictures I took as I joined them:)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v223/crochetlady/mambaginprocess.jpg

close up of the bottom
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v223/crochetlady/closeupmambagbottom.jpg

closeup of the handles
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v223/crochetlady/closeuphandlemambag.jpg

more pictures to follow:0) as I am weaving in the ends as I type here:)

This bag is heavy so I am gonna use it for carrying my crochet stuff :)

Hugs
Vims:hook

[barbn77]

Vims -- that's very pretty :)

[SPRAT605]

That is sooo styling!!!! I love it! It is way cool!

[mimi_mia]

That is so nice, wow It'll be beautiful when done!!

[denny]

I finished my gd afghan. I tried the yellow around the outside and it made it way to bright. She wanted the pink. I don't really care for it, but it is her favorite color and she is only six and dosn't care to much about composition. Some of her outfits are samples of her creativity. I had fun with this and I think I will try one for myself.
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j168/crochetnan/000_0037.jpg

[barbn77]

Denise -- that's beautiful i love how bright it is:manyheart

[Stacy25]

Beautiful work, Vims and Denise! :cheer

[HappyknitandcrochetFreak]

Hi ladies:hook

I love your Afghans:manyheart

Is it to late to join you in the Cal:blush

[barbn77]

Nope it's not to late Welcome:yay

[ttbookjunkie]

One more strip, only 5 to go... I might just finish this baby blanket this year :lol .

[vernzap]

I wanted to let everyone know that I'm pulling out of this CAL. I hope everyone has fun and enjoys their MAMs.

[barbn77]

sorry to see you go Veronica

[SPRAT605]

Denise.... I really like the pink! That is totally awesome! I LOVE pink! It really intensifies all the colors! Cool!

sorry to see ya go Veronica!

Later ladies!
Crochet on!

[pplcrochets]

Been lurking, 'cause I'm just not up to another CAL :hook, but had to post to admire Denise's afghan - love the pink! Just gorgeous and cheery all around. Nice job!:cheer

[HappyknitandcrochetFreak]

Nope it's not to late Welcome:yay

Thank you :cheer

I will post my choice of yarn etc tomorrow:hook

[denny]

Thank you all for the compliments......I was really leery about the pink.

[barbn77]

update -- I got the center part of the 5th strip done and will try to finish the 2 rows of edging tonight, and joining tomorrow:yay

[ttbookjunkie]

http://static.flickr.com/47/139117792_5d7da89045_m.jpg

Finished! It came out pretty good, I like to call it my sunshine baby blanket. It will be donated to Warm the World sometime this month. It is #7 out of my 25 things for charity in 2006. It was fun to make, thanks to Barb for starting this CAL.

[barbn77]

Amanda -- very nice:clap :c9 that's a nice blanket to donate to a charity:yes

[mimi_mia]

Nice blanket Amanda.........very nice of you to donate it!!:hug

[Jimmie Lu]

I have 3 strips done and a half of one. I am plannig to work on it as soon as things settle down around here lol like thats gonna happen soon!

[Stacy25]

Beautiful blankets, ladies. How sweet of you to donate it, Amanda. :manyheart

[cherryblossom]

Hi Barb and everyone!
I would love to join your MAM CAL. I am going shopping tomorrow for yarn and think I will do the same pattern that Barb is....now to just decide what colors!:think