Christmas Gifts 2006- Along

[jadyn05]

I don't know if it's too early for this, but the post about what everyone was making for Christmas got me thinking, that maybe a Christmas Gifts CAL would be a good idea... am I even allowed to start a CAL?

If i'm not i guess this will be removed :lol

Anyway, I've started on my gifts for the holiday season, and as it's July have a hard time being 'christmasy' already, but I'm pluggin along.... anyone wanna join me and keep eachother updated on our progress and such?

If so, grab a :hook and jump on in!

If i made this right... here is the button: http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a306/tomasko2002/christmasbutton.jpg

[grandkids]

Ada, I think that I would be interested in this cal. I have a lot of things going but that is normal with me. I am always ready to get on somthing else. I don't think that it is too early to start.

[Lady_of_Roses]

I have a WIP that falls into this category. It's the Plaid blanket from the Blue Ribbon Afghans from America's State Fairs book. The receiver knows he's getting it, but that's because it's got 16 balls of yarn attached and is too hard to hide. :lol

I'm about 1/10th of the way done the main part. There's a several rows of border around it after that. :(

[jadyn05]

woot! I'm not alone!!! Welcome aboard, this should be fun :yes

wow, I started a CAL, that's kinda cool! :yay

[Debbi-a1]

I'd like to join. My Quilt CAL is going to be a christmas gift and my coworker and I were talking about our lists yesterday and she mentioned how she would like a doily (so now I have 4 I need and I think I have 1 or 2 done and 1 in process). Plus all the other things on my list I want to crochet but don't know if I will. So this will help me get things done.
Debbi

[JunieMarie]

I'm in!! This will be my first CAL. I am soooo excited!:yay I am planning on making pillows for my neices and great-neices (5 in all). The front of each pillow will be their initial done in filet crochet and the pillow itself done in satin in a contrasting color. Then I will probably edge them with some sort of novelty yarn, something for a little girl's rooms. I do have to finish my bedspread first, but it shouldn't take me very long....I hope.

[PBLKNP]

I'd like to join...I'm making some friends an afghan for Christmas out of Wool-ease Chunky--I'm using some of the square patterns from the 63 Square Crochet-Along, but modified for the thicker yarn. It's going to be more of a blanket than an afghan at this point, seeing as it's so thick.:lol

I'm taking a bit of a break right now, due to my tendonitis, but as I'm steadily improving, I may just try to sew together some of the squares tonight, as sewing doesn't seem to aggravate my arm.

[Scorpio59]

This will be my really and truely first CAL! :cheer

Here are a pile of squares that I have made up for my niece. I was doing really well and then lost interest. Haven't touched them in months.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v201/YoonHo/blocks.jpg

My niece is 19 and her birthday is December 22nd. I wanted to do something special for her this year because lately we haven't been paying as much attention to her birthday at Christmastime as we should have.
I never made her an afghan before but did so for her brother.

I figure that I need 20 squares. I've got 10. I was even thinking of making the next ten in the solid white and just patterning them as I put it together !!

So I'm all set for this CAL! I'll start this weekend.

[naidascrochet]

I'm interested in this one too, I've already been thinking of starting my crocheted christmas gifts.
naida:hook

[Slumpidedooda]

id love to join! this sounds like a blast! :wooand it will be my first cal! im not positive on everything im making yet but im sure there will be some doilies and lots of fun stuff. great idea, by the way :yes.

Megan

[Homebody]

Count me in! I have so many kids and grandkids to make for and I think this is a fun way to get everything done.

I have started on snowflakes ornaments for each. I have a few made, but I am going to wait a while to starch them. I am also making afghans for each (12 total). I am in the middle of the snowflake afghan.

[sprtsbear]

I would certainly like to be in this CAL. I have started making Christmas gifts. I will post a few pictures next week of things I have finished so far.

[Jimmie Lu]

I will join too my list is as follows
7 purses
7 hats
4 T-towl kitchen sets
2Kitchen sets
1 MAM patriotic gahn (for my dad very important)

[Melibean223]

This is one I will definatly get in on as soon as I finish my afgan (not too great with the doing multiple things at once thing yet hehe) BUt with the way i've been plugging away at that I will be starting my dads remote holer, and my mom's afgans very soon.

[jchllm]

Sounds like just the kind of thing I'm looking for!!
I actually told my kids and hubby that I thought we should ALL handmake our gifts to each other this Christmas. Now, obviously, I'll crochet mine. What's not so obvious is what I'm going to make each of them (7 y/o boy, 15 y/o boy, 16 y/o girl, hubby).............
So.......count me in.......maybe y'all can give me some ideas!! :hook :hook

[jadyn05]

good to see that this cal is already growing only a few days in :yes

welcome to everyone, and I'll have some pictures up soon... really ned to update my blog, I finished a couple of the non-crocehted ornaments, just haven't uploaded pictures. And thanks to KrisitieMN, i'm going to have to add about 6 Blushing Becca's to my list of things to make :lol but it's a good thing, i need to finish the wings on my first one, and then i can post a pic.

[Lavelle26]

Christmas??? I'm in!!! I need to start planning the gifts. I have a few thoughts in mind and am trying to decide which I want to do, which I have time for and which would be most appreciated.

My thoughts were to do doilies but with all our siblings (I have 5 and hubby has three) that's a lot of doilies. My next thought was to knit dishcloths and send them with some kitchen items, but what??? I am at a loss past that point. No inspiration for that.

Then I thought of doing bath items. I have made some crocheted loofahs, washmits, soap savers and such and then I could include some little soaps and gels and things. This is my favorite idea and the one I will probably go with. Its relativly quick and I think it would be well appreciated by everyone on my list.

So, now I better get to working on this...:hook

[ChicagoHooker]

How about golf club socks for the men on our lists? I always have trouble thinking of anything other than scarves, hats and blankets for men. And no, I will never make a man-cho...that's just wrong.

[Ithinkican]

What the heck....Sounds like a good plan! Could someone please give me help with the button? I need the code.
Thanks

[j_kawano]

Count me in. Now all I have to do is work out what I am going to make. ;)

[caednkat]

Count me in too. This will be my first CAL.

On my list so far

Celtic Afgan for my Brother and Sister-in-Law (this is allready a WIP)
Doilies for my Step MIL
Scarf for my MIL

I'm sure the list will grow more. lol

[LavenderBear]

This is a GREAT CAL - thanks for getting it started! :clap

I've made one belt and am working on CHRISTmas colored dishcloths as well! I also started a CHRISTmas colored (red and white - and a CAL I started here!) afghan for my youngest daughter and plan to make afghans and tree skirts for sure! OH, I also started a shawl for a CHRISTmas present, which I almost forgot about! We give each of our girls a new ornament every year. I've made homemade ones in the past and just might do that again this year! Perhaps angels or snowflakes?!

[Debbi-a1]

This is going to be a fun CAL. I stopped on my quilt CAL this weekend (needed a break from it) and almost finished a doily for a gift! I'll post a pic when I'm done. I have about 1/2 a round left to finish!
Someone posted the Harry potter "Golden Snitch" bookmark (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=31263) and my friend loves HP too and this would be cute for her daughters, one who can read and the other who is learning as they both love HP too... so that adds to my list, but pretty easy to crochet.
Debbi

[NPrairie]

This is a great idea. I am just starting my Christmas gifts. Thanks for starting the cal.
:cheer

[jadyn05]

Ok, so i've decided with all I'm trying to accomplish crochet wise that i have to beak up my week... I have a lot of small gifts, a couple major gifts, and some non-croceht gifts... so i really need all my croceht stuff done by thanksgiving so i can spend the last 2 weeks of work time before i need to ship everything on the non croceht projects which dont take a lot of time. I've posted some pics of the ornaments I am making on my blog (see siggy for link), those take quite a bit of time each so i work on them whenever i am tired of crocheting. Also on my blog is my complete list of projects needed to be completed by Christmas...at least I think it's complete, I'm toying with the idea of cocheting snowflakes for every card as well, and I found a site with great bells I'd like to make a few for my own tree and a few friends.... somehow my list keeps growing... i think i need to stop looking up new ideas for a while and go with what I've got! :lol

The way I see it, I will either spend the next 4 months being full of Christmas cheer, or I'm going to be totally christmas'd out by Thanksgiving :rofl so we'll see.

Anyway, Sunday and Monday are gonna be my non-christmas crochet days, and Wed. will be my only Dani's throw day; Thursday and Friday will be my all other Christmas projects days...and Saturday will be my RAOK and charity crochet day.

I know, i'm nuts, but i'd like to do it all, and get it all done! :yes :lol :rofl

[Hazlecreek]

What better way to start out on a new board then jumping right into a CAL!:hook

I just started making the bag for this (http://www.anniesattic.com/crochet/detail.html?prod_id=19084) doll set. I'm hoping that with all the leftover baby yarn that I have I won't need to buy anything else but the doll.:)

I also need to make gifts for 2 other girls aged 6 to 10, but not sure just what to make yet. I also would like to make that "golden snitch" bookmark.

I'm excited to join all of you in this CAL!:yay

[DesertCrocheter]

I'm in!! I am starting back on one of a bunch of Christmas tree skirts for each of my sisters (I started one but need to return to it) and they are also getting felted totes. One tote is done, but not felted, so I need to make the other. If I can squeeze another tote in for my friend L, that would be good, too. Last year everyone got scarves, scrunchies, and one sis got place mats. I am also working on snowflakes for my trees. Good for us, all starting so soon. And yea, I think an only handmade gifts holiday would be great. Lavelle, how about adding towel toppers if they like them to the kitchen idea, or tea cosies (I'm pushing our soon to start tea cosy swap shamelessly here! :lol ), or Cupcake's potluck casserole toppers? Patty

[Homebody]

DesertCrocheter, What pattern are you using for your tree skirt? That sounds like a fun project and one I have not done before.

I just hope I can get all the ideas I have running through my head finished in time for Christmas!!

[Debbi-a1]

somehow my list keeps growing... i think i need to stop looking up new ideas for a while and go with what I've got! :lol
If poeple would stop posting what they've crocheted then I wouldn't want to make one too;)

I know, i'm nuts, but i'd like to do it all, and get it all done! :yes :lol :rofl
Me to.

[MamaHooks]

I am in -

:gift:ctreeMY LIST:ctree:gift
DD – Scarf [100 % done] & Hat [100% done]

DS - Hat [100% done]

DH - Scarf [100% done]

MIL - Wreath Hotpads [100% done]

BIL - Scarf [100% done]

Uncle S. - Scarf [100% done] & hat [100% done]

Uncle J. - Scarf [100% done]

Uncle B. - Scarf [100% done]

Aunt - Thread Angel [100% done] & Angel ClothesPin Doll [100% done]

Aunt's Father - Lapghan (native american/Indian) [100% done]



I am crossing my fingers I can get done with all of these long before Christmas 2006.

[Melibean223]

penguines did you say Vickie? Penguines are one of my favorite animals, Now you are going to have me searching the net looking for penguine patterns and my b/f will probably kill me after I start making penguine everything to deco his house in lol

[MamaHooks]

penguines did you say Vickie? Penguines are one of my favorite animals, Now you are going to have me searching the net looking for penguine patterns and my b/f will probably kill me after I start making penguine everything to deco his house in lol

LOL, yep my hubby is a Penguin Lover.... he has like ummm... 80 different penguins. Tiny 1" figuires to big 24" fluffy stuffed penguins.

http://www.*********************/crochet/pen.htm (http://www.*********************/crochet/pen.html)

http://www.kreinik.com/kshop/product.php?productid=108&cat=33&page=2
(make this one with yarn and goggly eyes and it is soo cute!)

http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=30488.0

http://www.etsy.com/view_item.php?listing_id=343988

http://www.craftdesigns4you.com/crochetpenguin.htm

That is just a few.

[DesertCrocheter]

OKay, I did 15 rows in one panel of this http://www.freepatterns.com/fp_pdfs/Other/Crochet/Tree_Skirt.pdf Christmas tree skirt for my sis last night. I have 1 panel done, and 3 more to go. At least it goes pretty fast. Patty

[Homebody]

DesertCrocheter, That is really pretty! I'm sure she will love it.

[Debbi-a1]

I finished one doily. ( 5 Hour Doily (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=31514) ) I started another one after I finished it. Right now I'm into thread... will get back to my afghan soon! And other gifts.

DesertCrocheter that will be a gorgeous tree skirt!
Debbi

[Slumpidedooda]

Well, here is what ive made so far. they are mini stockings that could be used for ornaments or whatever. :manyheart they are just thre right size to put something like money or lip gloss or something like that in. :yes i also want to make one that has a really long top part (above the heel) and then like put pens in it or something.
http://home.valornet.com/kkline/meg/mycoolstockings.jpg

i used a pattern that i had saved but i dont remember where i got it from so i will try to find it and when i do i will post a link.

--EDIT--
I found the link to the pattern! here it tis:http://www.seafore.com/original/stocking.html (http://www.seafore.com/original/stocking.html)

thanks for looking!

Megan

[Debbi-a1]

Those socks are just too cute! I was going to do angels for my coworkers but that with a lipbalm would be a great gift. Thanks for sharing!

[jadyn05]

I'm working on finding a snowflake pattern for thread that i don't think will kill me,.... think i've found one, want to put them in with christmas cards.. but today i'm working on Danielle's throw... or will be once my hubby wakes up and i can go in the master bedroom and sit in the AC.... I want to get 15-20 rows of this throw done today/tonight... I know I can do it, each row takes 20min, less once I actually get started, and I'm never in bed by midnight, so if i work from 8pm (when kids go to bed) until I"m done, I think I can do it... "Focus ada Focus"... I'll let ya know tomorrow how I did!

[Melibean223]

good luck Ada I wanted to get 5 rows of my round ripple done today but even with my ac set at 60 and the one down stiars on the house is still too hot to have the afgan on me to crochet it =o( Gotta love when the teps reach 101 but it feels like 115 outside. Good luck though I hope you reach your goal I might go out tonight just so I can sit in my car and crochet in my car's ac lol

[TamiCrochets]

such a great idea I'm gonna steal your christmas list blog idea ada :) post what i'm going to make everyone for christmas on my blog so that way yall can keep better uptodate on my progress .. I'm so excited to see that i'm not the only one who has started christmas allready **** I started a month ago what are you guys waiting for ... :)

[jadyn05]

Well, I didn't do the 15-20 rows I wanted, as I was crocheting in the dark and going slower than I normally would, but I did complete 10 rows of my throw for Danielle last night!!!! Which felt really good to do... also I figured I'm between 50-60 rows away from being finished with it completely.... maybe 70, depending on how long I make it.... but even if my 1 day a week I only do 10 rows that's only 5-7 weeks left till i finish... and that's well before the Thanksgiving deadline I'm giving myself for all crocheted presents.... and that's exciting for me.

But seriously, the person who made that King Size Ghan in 6 months..... hats off to 'em!!! That is very impressive!!

[Homebody]

I went shopping today for yarn! Meijers has Caron 1lb & Bernat super saver (which is very nice & soft!) on sale. I am now stocked and ready for work.

I started another afghan last night, I'm calling it my "warm & woodsy" afghan. It is made with 2 strands together (1 a soft rust, the other a variegated). The pattern is just a simple one to do in front of the TV - sc, ch 1, sc etc. and then the next row is sc in ch1 sp and ch 1. I got 15" done last night which turned out to be 1 8 oz sk. with a P hook.

I'm still stitching together my snowflake afghan. I will have it done soon. And, I have another 4 patterns picked out and yarn ready to hook.

[Debbi-a1]

Wow you are doing great. Kathryn That sounds like a nice afghan. I think I may have to do a few with 2 strands and a big hook and that's an easy pattern to do (I did a sweater in that pattern). If I end up doing more afghans, not sure yet... Thanks for sharing the idea!
Debbi

[Homebody]

Thanks Debbi. I like the pattern because the afghan has no holes (which is a requirement from my children!) and the double strands make it thick and warm. It is turning out to look very masculine (because of the colors). I think my oldest son will like it. I do like to do simple stitches inbetween complicated patterns - just a change of pace.

[PBLKNP]

My tendonitis is better, so I'm probably going to start doing more squares for the Christmas Afghan. Of course, it's positively ridiculous to be even thinking of crocheting Wool-ease Chunky in a heat wave, but I do have another Christmas project I'm also going to be working on, so I have to get a move-on with this one.

I swear, I feel like the globe has shifted and we're now where Florida used to be...:think

[JunieMarie]

Just wanted to post an update. I should be finished with my bedspread this weekend (I hope...) And then I will be able to get started on the Christmas presents! I have added one to the list, I found a pattern for a table topper (for those little round occassional tables) that I want to make for my Mom. So, hopefully, next week I will be able to post updates for THIS CAL. :lol

[macgillie]

Hope it's not too late for me to join. What a great idea! I've got a whole bunch on my list for Christmas gifts:
Hats for son (done), daughter (WIP), husband
Blanket/pillow set for son, daughter (done except for sewing ends)
Sachet sets for siblings/parents/in-laws (WIP)
Stuffed toys, blankets(?) for nieces/nephews
Wow! That sounds like a lot! Hmm, wish me luck!

[jadyn05]

It's never too late to join this CAL.... well maybe Dec 26th is a lil late :lol SO glad to be reading everyone's ideas and can't wait to see what everyone has completed.... now I need to find a CD of Christmas Music, and keep myself in Christmas mode =) I'll have some pics up tonight, I finished a couple things, some stocking stuffer items whose patterns I wanted to test, and an ornament. I decided I like the Pocet Tissue Covers, and I found a ww snowflake pattern, I'm making a bunch of to put in the windows of my house =). I want to complete a few more of each of these things, and post them together... do as little uploading as possible :rofl

Later.

[Scorpio59]

Kathryn- So funny that you posted about that 2 strand afghan! Today I went to the Rag Shop where I always stop and admire the bin of Caron Pounders they have out front. I am drawn to the varigated and matching solids but can never figure out what to do with them so I just look. I did buy a Crystalite hook in Size S because I wanted my DD to try it.

So tonight I pulled out two skeins of Red Heart and did up a swatch of your pattern. It was very easy to do once I got the hang of it. Now I can go back to the Rag Shop and rescue a couple of pounders and start a TV afghan to work on!

I need the simple mindless patterns. My almost 7 year old is autistic and from
the time he comes home until the time he goes to bed it's like living with a kangaroo! I cannot follow patterns when he is awake and once he goes to sleep all I want to do is watch TV.

[Krystal16]

I think at this moment, I have two Xmas presents already in the works, but once I'm done with the MAM, I'll be starting on another 3 or so. I cannot work on only one thing at a time, so I told myself I can work on as many as I want now as long as they are ALL for Christmas gifts.

My Gerber Daisy afghan (Flower CAL) is the only one I have pictures of at this point...

[Homebody]

Lorraine, I'm glad my simple pattern made sense. I'm almost finished with mine. I am making it about 76" long (my son is 6"3"!), so I have about 10 more inches to go and then I need to put a boarder around it. I will post a picture when it's completed. I can see why you would want a non-complicated pattern to work on. I think this type is relaxing to do.

Like Krystal, I can't work on just one project at a time. I still have my snowflake afghan to complete and I have a beautiful light peach, light beige, and off white afghan going. That one will take forever!!! (1 hr. per inch!). It is for my daugher and might take until Christmas to finish. I also bought yarn (black & grey) for my other son. I am looking for the right pattern. And I bought 3 shades of purple for his wife (looking for the right pattern).

If I have leftover yarn for each, I may make them all new slippers. They are complaining the ones I made the year before last are worn out and they want new.

[unicorn37757]

It's never too early to start thinking of making Christmas presents; I already feel like I'm way too far behind (haven't even started yet!) I want to get started cause there's lots of people I have to do for!:eek

[jadyn05]

Here are some things I've been working on, I need to make more of the tissue covers, and I haven't decided if I like this snowflake or not.. so please give honest feed back.... I want to make snowflakes for my windows, these are easy, but i'm not sure I think they are all that pretty... and the stocking, I need to make 2 more, changing the order of the colors, so that each of my 3 daughters has 1... this one is for Mackenzie, who is holding it up for me :D

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a306/tomasko2002/christmas06/th_DSC00595.jpg (http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a306/tomasko2002/christmas06/DSC00595.jpg) Pattern (http://www.crochetnmore.com/pockettissuecover.htm)

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a306/tomasko2002/christmas06/th_DSC00594.jpg (http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a306/tomasko2002/christmas06/DSC00594.jpg) need honest opinions of this snowflake... don't want my windows to be unattractive... pattern was on-line, can't find link now tho

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a306/tomasko2002/christmas06/th_DSC00592.jpg (http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a306/tomasko2002/christmas06/DSC00592.jpg) this is all granny squares ( 7 of them), the frilly border on the top I did in 2 rnds around the opening, rnd 1: (sc, ch3) in ea st around and rnd 2: 5dc in ch3 sp, ch1... all the way around. No pattern for this one, just figured it out, by looking at the one my great-grandmother made me when i was a baby.

Question for the stocking.... should I add a pom-pom at the toe, and the top of the foot? or leave it as it is... or only a pom-pom at the toe??

[2parrots]

Ady,

Count me in! :yes This is my first CAL, and what a perfect idea. I've got 2 winter coat scarves finished except for the fringe (which I don't enjoy doing), and 3 shawls in progress. I can't seem to stay on one project long enough to finish it before I start something else. Guess I just want to do everything. Maybe being in this CAL will help me stay on track and finish up a few gifts so they can go into my "ready to be wrapped" box. :gift

This is wonderful. Thanks for the suggestion! Christmas will be here sooner than we may think!

BP

[PBLKNP]

Well, now that my tendonitis is a tad better, I've started work on my Christmas afghan again. I got my shipment in from Joann.com of the yarn I need to complete the whole thing. I'm trying to sew together the squares as I go along, which is TEDIOUS, to say the least. However, I took a cue from my knitting books and am sewing them together using the mattress stitch instead of whip-stitching. The result is so good that one can't really tell which is the wrong side and which is the right. It takes AGES, though...

[tlisley]

I'm in on this. I have sooooo much to do.
My DH actually asked me to crochet a bathrobe. Anybody have a good pattern??? Shawls for my mom and SIL, 4 kids... 2 brothers... better get off the blasted puter and onto the hooks eh?:think

[Hazlecreek]

Jadyn05, I love the stocking that you made! What a great ideal to change the colors for each of your daughters. As for the snowflake it looks really nice, but doesn't have that snowflake look, but more like a doliey. It should be more open in between the stiches. IMHO. They would make very nice holiday costers!

I finished the bag, except for putting on the handles, along with the blanket and pillow for Tootsie Toodler (http://www.anniesattic.com/crochet/detail.html?prod_id=19084). I just ordered the doll today so that I can get started on the clothes. I'll try to get photos up later today.

BTW, Jadyn05, I wouldn't add the pom pom to the foot, you could add a bell there.

[Laura A.]

Ada,

I'd love to join.....I already began an afghan (or if I run out of yarn, a lap blanket ;) ) and would like to crochet a few more gifts so this group would give me the push I need. I'll look forward to hearing everyones' progress and seeing some pictures. :cheer

[jadyn05]

Hazle... ty so much for yho, i never even thought about using them as coasters, but i think you're right, it would be a nice coaster, I've found some other snowflake patterns, and I'm working on one in particular called The Pretty Snowflake http://www.jpfun.com/patterns/03ornaments/prettysnowflake.shtml there is the pattern if the link worked. Just have to see how easy it is to work up, i might be scratching the snowflake idea for this year... or just put it off till last, since I'm sure of most of my other projects...

and sry taking so long for the Christmas houses pics, have to get my scared silly butt into the basement and get one out :lol

[Lady_of_Roses]

Hazle,

What do you think of that Tootsie Toddler set? Is it easy to make, etc?

Is Tootsie Toddler the sole dolly that will fit the clothes, or do you know if another doll may fit just as well?

[Hazlecreek]

Jadyn05, I like that snowflake you posted. It look easy, good luck and I can't wait to see this one.


Hazle,

What do you think of that Tootsie Toddler set? Is it easy to make, etc?

Is Tootsie Toddler the sole dolly that will fit the clothes, or do you know if another doll may fit just as well?

It was really easy to make the bag, blanket and pillow. I haven't started on any of the clothes yet. She does give changes for different doll sizes up to 13". I just went ahead an ordered the doll shown because she was too cute, but you could always check the stores for different dolls to fit.

I've got the photos up now.
The bag with some slight changes.
http://img348.imageshack.us/img348/3044/morgansgift2na3.th.jpg (http://img348.imageshack.us/my.php?image=morgansgift2na3.jpg)

And opened
http://img348.imageshack.us/img348/9186/morgansgift1ra2.th.jpg (http://img348.imageshack.us/my.php?image=morgansgift1ra2.jpg)


Enjoy!

Edited to add thumbnails!

[cristin~FL]

Okay, I'm in!!

I have been thinking about Christmas gifts for a week or so now and being in a CAL will (hopefully) keep me motivated!

Here's what I know so far -- no one is getting anything done in thread! (it really does a number on my hands) -- except Mom

Mom is getting doily I started for her *last* year! - my case in point
I'm on round 17 of 26. size 20 red thread.

MIL is getting a popcorn square afghan - I've got one square done, another one started. My goal is 20.

And I'm not sure of the rest? My best friend is in school again now, so maybe I'll make her a granny tote? Everyone got scarves last year --or reindeer (clothespin) ornaments and I was stressed out, WAY TOO stressed out because I started everything after Thanksgiving. I was REALLY involved in my stepdaughter's band/color guard program last year and Christmas just sort of snuck up on me. She graduated this past spring....so I have WAY more time to crochet now! And way less stress in my life!

[Debbi-a1]

I started another doily (I need at least 4 for Christmas and have 1 done) and it's smaller then I thought. But at least it's started and I have an aunt with a bunch of my doilies out (saw them last week when I visited her) and she loves them for her knick knacks so it may work anyway. Then I crocheted a bunch of squares for my quilt afghan, I'm sewing some but catching up to the round of colors that I'm crocheting so I need to crochet more and sew less...
Debbi

[jadyn05]

OK, so the link to the snowflake that I posted here: http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showpost.php?p=437098&postcount=59 the snowflake is SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO EASY!!!!!!!!! It worked up in like 10min, maybe 15, so now I will definitely be making many many more for this year, I'd like to put one in my christmas cards, so I need 19 more for that, and I want at least 4 for the windows at the top of my front door, so I need to make 23 more, but I know I can do it!! Plus, it's giving me practice working with thread, which is very much needed, since I'm making bookmarks for a neice, and doilies for 2 other people, so these "no pressure" snowflakes should help me to develop some consistency with thread!
Anyway, just wanted everyone to know, if you're thinking snowflake, and need easy, then this snowflake is quite possibly perfect for you!

[MamaHooks]

I thought I would start on my daughter skirt earlier today... haha! Yeah, right. I can't seem to get the waist size right. I have tried 5 different stitches to make it look pretty and still be close weaved. Finally I decided to try something different... it is not working either.

Her measurements are 23" in the waist and 28" in the hips. Yes, she is a hippy little girl (7 yrs old).

Well, The waist is about 5 inches too big, because she already has hips I need to add about 6" within the first 8 rows (exsc) and it is not working! So I am putting that down and starting on something else... otherwise I will ruin the yarn for her skirt if I frog it too many more times.

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h165/MamaHooks/ChristmasPresents/th_21dabf38.jpg (http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h165/MamaHooks/ChristmasPresents/21dabf38.jpg)

[No, I did not make the table cloth.]

[Homebody]

I started on a ripple afghan for my DIL in 4 shades of purple (her favorite!). It is going ok. I think it is going to take a while though. I finished my afghan for my oldest son, but I haven't gotten around to taking a photo.

It looks like everyone else is working steadily. I love the photos posted so far.

[sprtsbear]

My first Christmas gift. It is for the boss' baby.http://www.crochetville.org/forum/http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i202/sprtsbear/th_PinkXmasStocking.jpg (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i202/sprtsbear/PinkXmasStocking.jpg)

[Homebody]

sptsbear, Very nice! Will you put the babies name on it?

[acrhrttcwgrl]

OK I finished a pair of socks for my first CAL...decided to give them to my mom for Christmas. Have a lot of neices and nephews so I think I am going to make them all snowflakes. The rest will come as I go. Last year was scarves, still thinking about making all the SIL socks or something.

But as for the CAL for Christmas I am in. :manyheart


Anna


WIP baby blankie and LOTS of snowflakes

[Krystal16]

I am really getting into the thick of Xmas gifts now...

I have my oldest daughter's started-10 squares out of 24 for her Gerber Daisy Afghan.

I just designed my own pattern for my youngest daughter's afghan, it's a flower too. (Both of these can be seen in the Flower CAL, click on my sig)

I started my sons' afghans by starting a self-designed square with a ships' wheel in it.

I also started a pattern called "Snow Crystals" from a Leisure Arts Year of Afghans book (book 5?) today, too. That one works up REALLY fast.

I think I'm going to frog this one I started for my mom...not sure yet. It's a patchwork butterfly. Lots of ends to weave in, not sure I like that. Might just find a pretty pattern small square and work that with a pretty border.

[minwifeof4boys]

I ran out of yarn for a wrap I was doing for my Grams and I ahve been searching in our area for 2 months... today I walked into AC Moore and found it ON SALE:clap (yeah me:cheer )...so the rest of the week I'll work on that and some minature stockings with champagne fun fur around the top and some of Bev's 15 minute snowflakes... I also have a huge cross stich project going for my son that will turn into a pillow and I need to stitch up hook cases for my mom and MIL....all projects this week....

[jadyn05]

I just LOVE seeing what everyone has in the works... even if no pics are up yet, to get a pic in my mind about all the great things coming... it's going to be a GREAT Christmas, and I'm so glad to be sharing with everyone the things that are in the works!

[MamaHooks]

Well am I mentioned before I put away my attempt at making a skirt for my daughter. I have now moved on to making her purse I am using "Little Dashing Drawstring" pattern from American School of Needlework Booklet # 1251. The pattern calls for WW Cotton yarn, but I decided that I would make it from WW Acrylic TLC Heathers in Blue Moon. I am going to line the bag if it turns out looking nice. I will most likely make another one if I like the pattern. The next one will be cotton so that it doesn't stretch like the acrylic one is going too. Anyway that is what I have moved on too.:hook

[Debbi-a1]

Vickie I was thinking about the skirt, can you add an elastic to the waist to make it fit better? Or a tie? Or belt loops? But maybe not. I know she'll love the purse though.
sptsbear, love the stocking. I did a bunch one year for my family. I used 3D paint to paint names on the top to make it easier and it was for family so it was okay...

I almost finished another doily (small one with 13 rounds) and may be able to finish it today or tomorrow.
Debbi

[cristin~FL]

I almost finished another doily (small one with 13 rounds) and may be able to finish it today or tomorrow.
Debbi

You threadie girls amaze me!

[jadyn05]

Click here (http://lovinglyhandmade.blogspot.com/) to see the 2nd of the 3 stockings I'm making, this one is for my 2nd child, Dawn... who is happily displaying it for everyone! Also posted is a pic of the "pretty snowflake" whose pattern I posted yesterday or the day before, it isn't blocked yet, i'm going to finish making all of them and block later, but you'll get the idea.

Hope you don't mind the link, but posting here and at my blog its just easier to post there and re-direct everyone,:lol

There is also a funny pic of my baby, making a mean face at her daddy! :rofl

Enjoy!

[MamaHooks]

Vickie I was thinking about the skirt, can you add an elastic to the waist to make it fit better? Or a tie? Or belt loops?
Debbi

Well actually I finally decided to put elastic in the waist on the sides and then put the lining (yes, I am going to line it) to encase the elastic. That way I know it will fit and I won't be hearing her little voice saying "it's itchy, scratchy, it feels funny or I can't wear it because ________ (fill in the blank)". I :bheart my kids! Thank you for your other suggestions... I might use one of them for a few of her store bought skirts.

[jchllm]

Hmmmmmm......stockings huh? Hmmmmmmm

[Homebody]

jadyn05, You aren't sure about your snowflake, once you block it you will see a difference. The points will stand out much nicer. You did a nice job!

[Debbi-a1]

I like the white stocking! That is nice. We're moving right along here. I worked some more on the afghan I'm making for a Christmas gift (my other CAL). And I'll do some of my doily today (if I have time) and maybe finish it.
Debbi

[Debbi-a1]

Doily #2 (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=31995) finished! Of course my coworker saw it and when I mentioned how another coworker wants to buy some hotpads from me, she wanted to buy this from me... she loves doilies. I gave her a doily for her birthday and yes she will be getting one for Christmas (was thinking of the 5 hour doily I made).
Debbi

[Laura A.]

Hi there, fellow Christmas crocheters! :) Thought you might like to see some of the things I'm working on. First is a throw for my Mom and then some coasters......I want to make so much more but the darned time just keeps getting away from me....imagine that! :blush

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f61/Jafroni/100_0151.jpg http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f61/Jafroni/Re-DoneCoastersPicture.jpg

[jadyn05]

C-ville we have a problem!!! I've been working on this throw for my sil, the colors are Oasis, Country blue, light sage, Navy blue and Aran... well Aran is a no dye lot yarn, and I had to purchase more to finish the blanket... and the color is off, I noticed... and she's a crocheter... so i know she's gonna notice... i can't start it over, i'll never finish in time if i do.... what do i do if she hates it??? ya know, once i've decided to crawl back from under the rock i'm gonna hide under......

[cristin~FL]

I'm sorry!! :( What brand is it? Maybe one of us could send you a skein that might match?? (it's a long shot, but could be worth it) :shrug
I hate that too!!! I now buy a ridiculous amont of yarn for a project just so I don't run out. :hook

[cristin~FL]

Laura A.
Nice work!!! I really like the look of the Aspen yarn in Mom's ghan!!
Coasters, huh? hmmmmmmm

[macgillie]

No more progress, but I do have some pictures. Here are the blanket and pillow for my daughter and the hat for my son:
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b133/macgillie/crochet/DSCN0721.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b133/macgillie/crochet/DSCN0722.jpg

[Debbi-a1]

Laura, nice afghan and coaster! You are doing a great job.
Jady, can you just figure that the off arron is part of the color scheme? If not you may have to frog or maybe make it part of the color scheme... and maybe posting here to ask others for something similar may help.
macgillie very nice job!

[Homebody]

Ada, Oh my! What a dilemma. I guess I would try to make it look like part of the color changes as suggested above. If that doesn't work, and you know that neither one of you will be 100% satisfied, I guess you will have to frog it. Sorry. How frustrating. Maybe you could go to a different store and see if they have a different batch that is closer to your original.

[jadyn05]

well the part that is a little off color is like the middle of the blanket... so it's like 1 side is a lighter aran and the the other half is a darker aran... i think it will be ok, my sil is very nice, and a fellow crafter, and she'll be honest with me... if she doesn't like this finished product than i'll make her another one... but frogging this blanket and starting from scratch for a 4th time is just NOT an option. thanks for listening to me ramble... so glad to have listening ears

[acrhrttcwgrl]

Yeah :cheer I finished my baby blankie and a pair of booties to match. Tomorrow I am going to begin the snowflakes for neices and nephews, my mom thinks I am nuts for making so many...about 100...:blush But I just cant put the hook down:manyheart . Will figure out how to post pictures tomorrow too. Hope everyones projects are going well.

Anna:angel

[Debbi-a1]

So maybe you can find a color that matches the first aaron and use that on the other side of the blanket. Or make another one if your sis doens't like it.
Anna I want to see that baby blanket and booties, those sound cute. One year I did tons of snowflakes too... proably not 100... but many. They are fun to make!

[DesertCrocheter]

Well, ya'll are keeping me inspired. I got sidetracked for three nights this week making a quick Solomon's knot shawl for a friend's birthday, but I am back on the Christmas gift-making sleigh and two-thirds of the way done with panel no. 3 for the tree skirt. When I get this one done, I'll lay the three out and post an in-progress photo. But I really need to get on my snowflakes. I only got 2 and one-half done on vacation.

[MamaHooks]

My progress report on my daughter presents so far... http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h165/MamaHooks/ChristmasPresents/th_clmXmas2.jpg (http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h165/MamaHooks/ChristmasPresents/clmXmas2.jpg)
is 1/3 finished. I need to buy 2 more skiens of yarn to finish it.

The http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h165/MamaHooks/ChristmasPresents/th_clmXmas1.jpg (http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h165/MamaHooks/ChristmasPresents/clmXmas1.jpg)
is almost finished. I need to line it and it will be done.

The pictures are awful. I had to take them while I was hiding from my daughter. The master Christmas present snooper. She thinks they are in my craft closet. But the presents are hidden elsewhere. She will never find them... :santaHo..Ho..Ho!

[sunrisedq]

I'm A newbe at Crochetville but an "old had At crochet" I DO NOT want a repeat of last year!! I made 12 purses for my two daughters friends in 3 days. That was the first week of Dec. Then soon to be hubby asked me on the second week to make an afghan for his brother with the requirements that it had to be big enough for his bed and in his fav color Red, and....have his name in it. Lucky for me it's Pat BUT I had never attempted to do a graph afghan. Talk about stressing!!:eek Anyway I did complete everything about 5 days before Christmas :clap This year my goal is to have everything done before Thanksgiving!! I am looking for suggestions for gifts to make for about 12 or so girls in the ages of 9-12 I'm not sure if I can top the purse thing but want to try:manyheart
If you want to see last years gifts it's on my much neglected blog...We were in the process of moving for 2months than the move took another 2 months then no internet for 30+ days.

[jadyn05]

sunrise, i would say for the girls... maybe make them a different purse than the one they got last year.... or if they liked the purses from last year, and you remember the colors you could make them matching scarves to go with the purses...

or, maybe you could make them shrugs or i have some patterns for nice, not so typical ponchos.... they work up pretty quick...

just a few ideas..

or maybe throw pillows.. there are some patterns for nice odd shaped ones, instead of just square... i made my neice a flower shaped pillow last year, and that went over really well...

[sunrisedq]

ADA, What a great idea for pillows that sounds like fun!! I'll have to do some research for some cool patterns. Your flower shaped one did you use a pillow form or just stuff it? Wondering how these would wash? These girls are not the neatest lil things!! :pig LOL The purses had a fun fur flap soooo I could somehow incorporate fun fur into the pillows.
I was thinking and actually started on making lil stockings for on top of their gifts will fill with lip gloss or candy or even pens & penciles. I also started making Robbies Angels in their school colors navy & white I'll put a loop on them for orniments and a magnet for whatever.
I'm off to find some pillow patterns...:c9

[Melibean223]

sunrise you could make the girls wrist warmers, or the scarves is a good idea, I have no clue what i would make for 12 girls that age, I would probably go nuts

[jadyn05]

sunrise the pillow i made i stuffed, and my sister told me that it washes really well, she hasn't had issues with all the stuffing going to one petal or anything..

good luck!

[Debbi-a1]

I think fun fur scrafs would be great for them. And fun. If you use funfur on the boarder of the pillows, most are not machine washable... although they have Baby Fur type yarn that is machine washable. but I guess you could handwash pillows, I'm sure. Or just make a cover that can come off. A cute flower or heart or fun shaped pillow would be nice.
Quick ponchos could also be made. There are some real easy patterns and using fun fur and a big hook with another strand of yarn would make it look fancy without the work.
You could always make them a second purse. A lot of women have more then one purse, so girls could too.
Good luck.
Debbi

[jadyn05]

well, i finished the bag i'm making my mother... she was originally getting something else, but she saw this bag that I made for someone else and said "i'd love that bag in a creme color".... so being that I can take a hint (or rather recognize a direct statement :rofl) I made quick work of it, and now that is 1 more gift to scratch off my list :yes I'llpost a pic to my blog soon, but wanted to update ya'll on my progress!

[Closet O' Yarn]

This is the CAL for me! I finished one present (A "coming home poncho" for my sister), I had to wrap it in Christmas paper so I would quit fussing over it!

Next to do is afghans for my BIL & SIL's on Dh's side (1 per couple makes 3)
& a kitchen rug and tea cozey for my (other) sister.

I will start with the afghans, and this time I'll take a picture BEFORE I wrap it- DUH!

[PBLKNP]

I'm still slogging away on the afghan for my friends...I'm sewing the squares as I go along, so it won't be a total nightmare at the end. Thankfully, the weather has cooled down, so working Brand Wool-ease Chunky isn't as stifling as before <g>. I've also lost my mind and have decided to knit a friend a sweater for Christmas...

[grandkids]

I am going to be making some scarfs, doilies, afghan, and maybe time permitting a few other things.

[Hazlecreek]

Alright, I got the first outfit for Tootsie the toddler done.
http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/5677/blueandblackdolliexh6.th.jpg (http://img163.imageshack.us/my.php?image=blueandblackdolliexh6.jpg)

I still want to get at least 2 more outfits made. Then I have the Horse to make and I going to make a shaw for the oldest of the girls.:hook

[Debbi-a1]

Lovely doll and dress!
I love hearing how people are finishing up their Christmas gifts, very inspiring! I'm plugging away at my afghan and crocheted and sewed more squares. One day I'll be finished (hopefully before Christmas). Of course I'm working on other items too.

[Hellbo]

This will be my 1st CAL Yeahhh:yay

I will get started as soon as I finish off the coat n hat I am working on now - I'm trying to finish off one thing before moving onto the next.


I would love to make an afghan for my younger sister - it will be my 1st
slippers for my nephew
Hat n Scarf - friends
T cosy - just want to make one
A Christmasy item for MEHow exciting - this will make me keep on hooking...

[acrhrttcwgrl]

:cheer Finished a dish cloth :clap

[minwifeof4boys]

I fianlly made my list of everything to be done ( guess I really need to speed up a bit here)

AuntieDishcloth/ scrubbie
SIL: Dishcloth/scrubbie/snowflake
ds#3 snowflake , x-stitch ( 3/4 done) cat toys, dishcloths & scrubbies done
dnp: stuffie
db: Buckeyes ( can't make until time to ship)
dnp: bookmark
Mom: hook case/ stitsch markers/ snowflake. scrubbies and dishcloths done
friends: 20 snowflakes for cards
ds#1 pillow I am transfering on, scrubbie, dishcloths, cat toys, snowflake
Grams: shawl ( working on fringe), scrubbie
ds#4 Cross stitch and hopefully a crocheted letter pillow
ds#1's gf: small felted bag, scrubbie, snowflake, dishcloth
ds#3'2 gf : small felted purse, tissue holder
cat toys for our cats ( 5)
dnp: bookmark
SIl: scrubbie, dishcloth, snowflake
db: buckeyes
ddil: purse, pillow,lots of ornies for their tree, embroidery dishtowels
MIL: hook holder, stitch markers, scrubbie
ds#2: pillow,pillowcases, cattoys
dnp: bookmark
dnc: stuffie
dnc: stuffie
Hubby : I HAVE NO CLUE
dnc: stuffie & bookmark
dnc: felted purse
That should keep me busy! :eek I have all the charity stuff done fromt he hat a week stuff...

[unicorn37757]

Gee Lea your doing alot better then me, I haven't even made a list yet of what I want to do, it's just kinda in my mind (and that is a scary place to be!):eek

[Debbi-a1]

Lea, wow, what a list! But some of the items won't take too long, so that's a plus. Does hubby need a hat? scarf? blanket/afghan? slilppers? socks for winter? remote caddy? coaster for drink? can't think what else... it's hard for me with men too!
Debbi

[minwifeof4boys]

I've given hubby all of the above... and he dutifully uses them....he says the money he saves with me making gifts is a gift in its self :D

[Krystal16]

YAY!!! I finished my first Xmas gift! It's OldBagLady's fish purse for my niece:

http://www.synergy4results.com/images/fish.jpg

[minwifeof4boys]

That is just adorable!!!!

[unicorn37757]

Krystal, that is so cute!:c9

[Melibean223]

that is absolutly adorable, im currently working on the ssweet pea shawl from the happy hooker book for my mom, hope to have pics soon.

great fish purse =o)

[Hellbo]

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k105/HellboKilic/AfghanWool.jpg

Ok, so I am officially one step closer to making the afghan for my sister now as I got the yarn today:) . It was a bargain at 50p a ball with 20 balls that will work out at roughly $18.00
I think I am going to use a pattern from the Erika Knight Simply Crochet book & hope to start next week.
I have also nearly finished a hat & scarf for a friend - I will post a pic when it's finished.:yay

[Debbi-a1]

Lea, maybe you could make him seconds or thirds... or I have no clue either...
What a fish bag! I love it. You did a great job.
Oh that yarn makes me want to crochet! :devil I have such a hard time with new yarn waiting to make something... Look like it will be a very nice afghan.
Debbi

[minwifeof4boys]

Lea, maybe you could make him seconds or thirds... or I have no clue either...
What a fish bag! I love it. You did a great job.
Oh that yarn makes me want to crochet! :devil I have such a hard time with new yarn waiting to make something... Look like it will be a very nice afghan.
Debbi

Hey Debbi... did you see my thread on what I'm going to do for dh... the 12 days of Christmas....only each day will have something crocheted.. and something not crocheted... like a crocheted partridge & homemade pear butter etc...I am so psyched about it!

[daisycrochet]

:cheer Hi there. I would most certainly be interested in taking part in a CAL for christmas or actually anytime would work for me. Sounds like I'm not the only one whipping up things for christmas, lol. For the CAL should I start my own blog thing?

[kazily]

I NEED to join this CAL! If I don't,I will procrastinate like I normally do. This was a wonderful idea. :cheer

I do not have a complete list but am working on it. So far-

sister#1--- washcloth scrubbie (completed)
sister#2---?
sister#3---?
my mother--washcloth scrubbie + ?
a family gift-- An Afghan (WIP)
ds#1 a stop sign or traffic light pillow,
ds#2 a stop sign or traffic light pillow, a tie or ???
ds#3 a stop sign or traffic light pillow, fingerless gloves in camo
dh#1 (& only one :lol )
friend#1 pr of snowflake potholders
neighbor-washclothes?
neighbor girls-?
grown nephews & nieces-?

[Homebody]

Wow! I just got back from vacation and everyone is going strong on their projects! I love the purse Krystal! Very cute. I haven't had time to read all the other posts yet, but I will.

[MamaHooks]

This is the beginning of my Navajo Afghan. The border is Black, then Aran Fleck and White. The next color will be Forest Green. I really am enjoying this pattern.
[click on picture to enlarge]
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h165/MamaHooks/ChristmasPresents/th_navajoafghan2.jpg (http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h165/MamaHooks/ChristmasPresents/navajoafghan2.jpg)
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h165/MamaHooks/ChristmasPresents/th_navajoafghan1.jpg (http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h165/MamaHooks/ChristmasPresents/navajoafghan1.jpg)

The afghan is 57" wide. I was having too much fun doing my chain stitch... the afghan is really suppose to be a lapghan and 40" wide. :lol

[Yelutci]

I'm in.:hook I am actually working on coasters for our Bible Study group (:coffee we're usually drinking coffee as we talk), while reading these posts. I've got 5 of 6 for one family and 3 more families to go. I honestly haven't got the all of my list worked out yet.:shop I'd like to come up with more crocheted gifts as I've lost my love for shopping-maybe it's the 3 kids I always have in tow, who see shopping as a punishment.
Mom-Doily & butterfly bookmark
Dad-He always wants/gets a t-shirt w/kids' pictures ironed on
Bro1-Afghan (Maybe)
Bro2-Beanie & scarf
BIL-Beanie
SIL-Scarf
DN- I've started an afghan that matches the sock-monkey pillow I made for him
BIL2-Rasta beanie
MIL-?maybe a hat
FIL-?
Hubby-snowboarder skully/face mask
DS-beanie in Spiderman colors
DD-Granny square poncho
Dd-Granny square poncho (they like to match)
I'm looking forward to seeing everyone's idea's and end products. :manyheart Everything so far is really great & :clap very inspiring.

[Hellbo]

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k105/HellboKilic/Hottie.jpg

Yeahhh, one project finished.
I have no plans yet who will get this hot water bottle but it was fun to make.
I just copied a template of a bottle cover that I already have; I may add some embellishments onto it - I haven't decided yet.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k105/HellboKilic/Blankie.jpg

Here is where I am up to with the blanket for my sister - it's about half way finished using the yarn I posted a picture of last week.
Progress good so far - I know it wouldn't be if I hadn't joined in this CAL
Crochetville is really working wonders for my crochet!!!

[Debbi-a1]

Coasters is a GREAT idea for those who drink coffee or even cola out of cold cans...
````````
LOVE the afghan and the colors. Wow you're all ready that far! I'm impressed! :clap

Almost finished with my 3rd doily for Christmas. I think I'll make one or two extra if I have time... maybe just take my time after I finish everything (not if..;) .) Still working on my squares afghan.

And yes Crochetville is wonderful in helping us finish projects, I love it!

[minwifeof4boys]

Ok.. since my last post here is what has been achieved so far....the biggie was figuring out what to do for dh... anyhow.. some of the things were near completion anyhow...

My Gramms: finished her TLC wrap and a handle holder, scrubbie and dishcloth

SIL: 2 dishcloths, triangle & one looking like a dress, scubbie and handle holder

SIL2: same

Aunt: same except I made a fabric tissue holder for her too

MOM: same

ds#3 finished cross stitching the national Guard emblem ( neede to have it framed), 2 cat toys,dishcloths, potholders (2), scubbie, handleholder...

ds#1 made a jar of pear butter

dh made pear butter for his first day of Christmas...
Onward!

[Yelutci]

Okay I've got 2 sets of coasters done, I decided to do 8 for each family instead of 6, since I have enough cotton yarn and they went fairly fast.(I'm trying to finish off yarn as I go; to minimize my growing stash) I also picked up 4 pairs of flip flops (2 black & 2 white) at Michael's for 19 cents a pair. I'm going embellish them with some novelty yarn from my stash for my daughters. We wear flip flops all year, here in California, so they aren't as impractical a Chistmas gift as they sound. I'm only bummed they didn't have any adult sizes left. I may check around so I can make a pair for my SIL and myself, too.

[Debbi-a1]

Actually flilpflops could be given with those flip flop socks for winter areas... maybe with some pj's... I like them in the summer instead of slippers if I have to or want to wear anything instead of hot crocheted slippers. But wow 19 cents! I picked up some black ones for me that barely fit for 99 cents there a few months ago... Those will be great.

Working on Doily 3 and 4 (4 here at work at lunch when I'm not too tired or busy) and my afghan which seems to be taking forever as I'm use to doing quick ones with 2 strands and/or big hooks.

[sammimag]

I didn't see this post when I started made the Doily CAL. I think I will join this one since I am not getting many bites.

I want to make 2 doilies (maybe 4)
I will make 15 more bookmarks one for everyone on my to do list I''' work on some of these first because they are fast so if I can't get to the "bigger projects" everyone gets something from me.
Funky jewelry for one of my nieces
washcloths mostly for the girls on my list.
gameboy holders for the kids
a bag for my mom

Finish freeform doll blanket for my dd and she wants some things for her dolls. I was thinking doll ponchos, a dress and a skirt. She also wants a purse.

water bottle holder for both of my kids.

Ds wants a dragon stuffed animal and dd wants a unicorn.

Ideally I'd like to make several 20 or more? snowflakes to put on holiday cards to send to friends and family.

I'm sure I have forgotten some things but I hope not.

[sunrisedq]

OK, I'm a slow starter I DO NOT have any lists yet, only random ideas! I need to buckle down and start getting more organized. :eek
Thank you to jadyn05 for posting the pretty snowflake pattern, I've made 20 so far, out of #5 aunt lydias fashion thread, 7 white/pearl, 7 gold/gold, 4 white, 2 white/gold. I want to do 12 of each, also have natural/pearl, & white/silver that I haven't got to yet. These are for my tree, I want to make more for gift toppers, they are so easy and work up unbelieveably fast.:yay I also made some coasters from a modified version of the snowflake. Too cute;) These are GREAT take-alongs I do them at cheerleading practices and baton lessons.
I made a mini stocking and love it will be making many more of those as well. I found a baby girl & baby boy's first Christmas stockings will be making those. I was thinking of making my mom a table topper or runner for her new kitchen which should be finished in Oct. Not sure though what pattern yet. :think
And thats where I get kinda stuck not sure what else to do BUT I'm still looking and I do have a little bit more time.

[scc51055]

I am in.....I have a few ideas of what i will do but nothing started yet....still in the planning stage

[caednkat]

I love seeing everyone's progress.

Right now I'm still working on a baby afgan for my soon to arrive nephew. And working on a scarf for my brother.

I haven't even started working on Christmas stuff really yet, not that it has stopped me from bookmarking pattern after pattern. I also bought the Happy Hooker book and my list just keeps getting longer. lol

[Homebody]

I just finished my purple ripple afghan for my daughter-in-law. I will post a picture tomorrow. I really love how it turned out. It has 4 shades of purple (her favorite color) and it is so soft and comfy. I want to keep it for myself. 2 completely finished, 3 in progress, and 5 more after that.

[Vickietoria]

Wooo hoo! I'm doing a CAL! :) This is my first, but it's important. I live 750 miles or so away from my family, and my hubby can only get off work during Thanksgiving, so we're doing Christmas at Thanksgiving. No pressure right?? That only cuts my crochet time by a month. Add to that my idea this year was to make things simple, and lets all just make the presents. My family is pretty crafty, so this should be interesting. Anyone see that Friends episode where Monica and Chandler make Valentine's Day presents for eachother, but forget about it? Everytime I think about making the presents I think of it! Anyway... My presents are basically that all the women will get purses/totes (maybe lined, even though I'm just learning how to sew...) and the men? I was reading someone on crochetville is doing the 12 days of Christmas for their hubby. I might do something like that too. :) Especially since we won't be "home" for Christmas, it's sort of like extending it, and everything. Anyway, but there aren't that many men in my family, so it's basically just my dad and my FIL. Hummm... I might "let" my husband figure out the gifts for the men, and I'll figure out the women. Not even, but fair lol. It's so hard to figure out things for men! I mean, on my bags we're going to say they're from both of us, because my husband would have had to do something to help like, either, pay for it (I'm a stay at home mom), or watch son while I work on it lol. :) Anyway, enough rambling, need to go crochet! :)

Victoria

[kazily]

Vickietoria, I know what you mean about hard to make crochet things for guys. I was thinking of crocheting dh a tie. I wonder if he would like it though? :think I know he'd wear it at least once :lol but he's not really the tie type of guy. But I'd love to see him wear a tie hehe so maybe it's a better idea than I thought? :D Maybe a hat too.

[tlisley]

My list gets longer all the time... I have a pattern picked out for a bathrobe for my dh. My family thinks it's a dumb idea to try a bathrobe but I think it will work out ok. the pattern is here
http://*****************/web/20011119094654/www.cei.net/~vchisam/groovy/10-11k.html

I'm going to drop the granny squares and just continue the body pattern up to the shoulders. I know its a womens jacket but I think it looks like a robe myself...lol.
I have a shawl almost finished for my mom, I have an afghan started for one brother. I have 5 daughters (3 are mine 1 was given up for adoption 19+ years ago and she has a younger sister) and a son. I'm thinking Christmas stockings for everyone. I've never made those but they don't seem like they would take too long.
My grandmother has moved back here from Kentucky so I will have to make her something too. I just don't know what. lol.

[Hellbo]

Tlisley, the bathrobe looks great & it is a great idea - give it a go & don't forget to keep us posted.

[unicorn37757]

I think a bathrobe would be a great idea!:cheer

[Yelutci]

Oooo-Snowflakes for gift toppers is a great idea! I'll have to some of those to my list!

[sunrisedq]

:hook I just found a pattern on the net thats perfect for my SIL to be, she's a HUGE Green Bay Packers fan, drives a green truck all done with GB stuff and a room in her apt dedicated to them.:yes I found a GB coasters, and pillow, also football coasters. I'm making the footballs out of thread for a mini Christmas tree and will make a mini tree skirt with GB on it. The football will have ribbon in their colors on it. While I'm at it I'll make many extras for the other football fans with their favorite teams colors of ribbon. Then I'll do the football as a coaster and the other pattern that has a G on it. The lights on the mini tree will have to be changed to Green, White, & Yellow. So what do ya'll think??

[minwifeof4boys]

I really didn't make much gift progress with the wedding this past week, but I did hide in my craft room last night after everyone left and made my mom a knitting needle case. I am almost done with ds#1's project. I transfered a drawing he had done in highschool to material and I am embroiderying it. I bought the sweetest little bird pattern last night that will become a partridge, 2 turtle doves and thre french hens this week if all goes as planned. This is the week of quick projects, ds#1's cats toys, a couple of bookmarks,a couple of Kristens mice....back to work on my yo-yo afghan I have neglected....

[MamaHooks]

I am totally thrilled with all the different items that people of found to make for their loved ones. Everyone is so creative.

Personally I am still struggling with the Navajo Afghan. The pattern is not difficult, it is just composed entirely of the single crochet stitch. So it takes a while to make any really progress. Plus I had to make my MIL a few items for her B-Day. It is on the 1st of Sept. So many things to make and so little time.

[GarnetMoon]

OKay! Count me in! I have a list of items I NEED to get done. Having a CAL will keep me moving in a forward direction!

afghan for king size bed (kill me now)

3 all american granny square afghan (lion brand site)

bookmarks tunisian crochet (*my pal* noreen crone-findlay's site http://www.hankeringforyarn.com/)

and I have about 5 more people I need to come up with girt ideas for!

[Scorpio59]

Personally I am still struggling with the Navajo Afghan. The pattern is not difficult, it is just composed entirely of the single crochet stitch. So it takes a while to make any really progress.

Who are you making this for?
I made the Navajo Afghan years ago. Reading your message reminded me about those sc's :( Actually I started it for someone I was dating at the time and decided to keep it. Glad I did! My daughter loves it and so do I !

Hang in there- It is a beautiful afghan.

[Yelutci]

I'm still working on coasters, I'm varying the pattern so it's not quite so tedious. I've also started working on a stuffed Yoda for my son. The face is giving me a hard time, hopefully the body will be easier.
http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h126/yelutci/th_IMG_2512.jpg (http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h126/yelutci/IMG_2512.jpg)

[Debbi-a1]

Yoda is going to be so cute!
I did a single crochet afghan for a Christmas gift 2 years ago... took forever!
I'm still going slowly on my projects. Been dabbling in beaded jewelry (shh... not crocheted:eek... that's what I bought the beads for actually and it didn't work out, so I used stretchy wire to make a bracelet with some additional beads)... But will get back into my crocheting this weekend as that's my frist love.
Debbi

[dogymom]

I'm jumping in kinda late!:P I've just started making dishcloths for my relatives, only need about 30 more:blush
I've got to finish my son's afghan, started back in the spring:blush, make an afghan for my mom, a felted purse for my sis-in-law, and golf club covers for my brother. Why oh why do I wait until the last minute????:think

[jadyn05]

Well, i am a bad Cal starter, lol, i have made no progress on any projects recently, at least not christmas ones. I've been real overwhelmed with life happenings, and my crocheting has taken a serious hit. Anyway, am working on some patterns that i'm testing this weekend, that will become a christmas present for someone, well a few people, and a thing for the ds of my known pal in the sp swap. I need to read here more and stay motivated.

[auntel]

OK, better late than never - I'm in. Might as well take the plunge, and get the fingers flying!
I have some gifts to make:

4 afghans(3 crochet, 1 knit)
4 scarf and hat sets(definitely the scarves/we'll see about the hats)
2 cross stitch projects(the most time consuming for me)
1 sweater/jacket(that's knitted/ about half way through)
a couple of shrugs
a shawl or 2

Fortunately, some of these are already WIPs. I'd much rather do this than housework! I'm dedicating at least 2 hrs a night to completing the list. The last thing I want to do is go to the stores to buy gifts in December- I hate the crowds, and the lint in my wallet won't get me very far! This is so much more fun and creative.

Ellen

[salos]

My MIL makes Navajo style afghans that are real treasures. I like the idea of crocheted toss pillows for gifts.

I'll spend some time thinking about Christmas gifts. There are so many wonderful things we can make!

[CrochetCasper]

I'm in!!! I don't have a real list yet, but I'm planning on making a few scarfs, a couple afghans. Those miniture stockings sound really cute - I think I'll add them to my list! There are other people I want to make stuff for, but haven't decided what yet. Hopefully I can get more organized and have a "real" list together soon!

So far, I have one scarf done and have a scarf and afghan WIP going.


I've read through all of your posts and am amazed at how far along everyone is. This CAL will be really helpful in motivating me!! And this is much better than going to the stores to shop for christmas!

[LadyBeBop]

Joining two CAL's in an hour...man, I must be dense. :help

But I'm in. :tup

I don't think I have too many projects.

1) I have a monster afghan project for my MIL which I think will take up most of the next three months.

2) I'm working on a shrug for my eldest daughter.

3) I'll probably make a baby afghan for my eldest great niece (she'll be about 18 months old) and either a stuffed animal or an afghan for my youngest great niece (she'll be 9 months old).

4) I have a great nephew due right around Christmas time. I'll probably make him a baby afghan for him...dunno if it's going to be a Christmas present or a hospital present. The way things are going, it could be both. :sheepxmas

[acrhrttcwgrl]

Been offline for a few weeks..almost thought hubby was going to have to put me in the nut house..no new patterns to print and try at a later time... But I did get a some snowflakes done and my round ripple for my neice who will be 1 in Jan. so I have made some progress.:cheerRead somewhere that someone was making mini sockings...would love to see the pattern..sound intresting...maybe another idea brewing....:devil

[sunrisedq]

I am doing some of those mini Christmas stockings, you can get the recipe here http://www.seafore.com/original/stocking.html :hook I say a recipe because it is a basic out line. They are really cute I'm making some in green & red and some in victorian colors.:stocking

[unicorn37757]

Thanks for the link, they're so cute!:clap I am doing some of those mini Christmas stockings, you can get the recipe here http://www.seafore.com/original/stocking.html :hook I say a recipe because it is a basic out line. They are really cute I'm making some in green & red and some in victorian colors.:stocking

[Ellie 13]

I'm in. I have a small purse pattern I want make for 4 girls (teen and pre-teens), Don't know what to do for a 5 yo boy though. Any ideas?
I've already made 6 Christmas stockings that I hope to sell. I like the little ones, I might try some. I have 6 or more books of smowflake patterns I can make (hate stiffening them though).
Ellie 13

[ankey]

I'm joining in this - so far I have an afghan to make for my kid sister, a scarf to make for my roommate, two stockings to make for one of my older sisters and my BIL so they can hang them up in the new house they just bought together, and AJs dog bone mat for my puppy (don't laugh). Also trying to make something from crochet for my other sister, my soon-to-be second BIL and my parents! 8 gifts in all and I haven't even started yet! I'm going to be really busy these next few months...

[Koalagirl9394]

I like this Idea!!! I am joining!!!!

[Ellie 13]

penguines did you say Vickie? Penguines are one of my favorite animals, Now you are going to have me searching the net looking for penguine patterns and my b/f will probably kill me after I start making penguine everything to deco his house in lol
I have a stuffed penguin pattern, if you PM me your snail-mail adress I can send you a copy. I also have a snowman pattern if anyone's interested.
Ellie 13 :yes

[Ellie 13]

I'm working on finding a snowflake pattern for thread that i don't think will kill me,.... think i've found one, want to put them in with christmas cards.. but today i'm working on Danielle's throw... or will be once my hubby wakes up and i can go in the master bedroom and sit in the AC.... I want to get 15-20 rows of this throw done today/tonight... I know I can do it, each row takes 20min, less once I actually get started, and I'm never in bed by midnight, so if i work from 8pm (when kids go to bed) until I"m done, I think I can do it... "Focus ada Focus"... I'll let ya know tomorrow how I did!

I have some snowflake patterns that are easy (stiffening them is a pain though). PM a snail-mail adress and I can send a copy. Good luck.
Ellie 13

[Ellie 13]

Here are some things I've been working on, I need to make more of the tissue covers, and I haven't decided if I like this snowflake or not.. so please give honest feed back.... I want to make snowflakes for my windows, these are easy, but i'm not sure I think they are all that pretty... and the stocking, I need to make 2 more, changing the order of the colors, so that each of my 3 daughters has 1... this one is for Mackenzie, who is holding it up for me :D

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a306/tomasko2002/christmas06/th_DSC00595.jpg (http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a306/tomasko2002/christmas06/DSC00595.jpg) Pattern (http://www.crochetnmore.com/pockettissuecover.htm)

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a306/tomasko2002/christmas06/th_DSC00594.jpg (http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a306/tomasko2002/christmas06/DSC00594.jpg) need honest opinions of this snowflake... don't want my windows to be unattractive... pattern was on-line, can't find link now tho

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a306/tomasko2002/christmas06/th_DSC00592.jpg (http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a306/tomasko2002/christmas06/DSC00592.jpg) this is all granny squares ( 7 of them), the frilly border on the top I did in 2 rnds around the opening, rnd 1: (sc, ch3) in ea st around and rnd 2: 5dc in ch3 sp, ch1... all the way around. No pattern for this one, just figured it out, by looking at the one my great-grandmother made me when i was a baby.

Question for the stocking.... should I add a pom-pom at the toe, and the top of the foot? or leave it as it is... or only a pom-pom at the toe??
If you PM a snail-mail adress, I can send you some snowflake patterns.
That one looks a little thick, if it's done with really fine thread it might be ok. Ellie 13

[MamaHooks]

I have quickly scanned through all the posts and I am thrilled and amazed by everyones progress. Everyone is doing such a wonderful job. I can already tell a lot of people are going to have a wonderful Christmas. :wreath

[sunrisedq]

I have a question for y'all, Last year I made 12 purses for gifts for dd's friends, Would it be 'goofy' to make them market/beach bags this year??:think Maybe put with it a book marker, sun glasses case, hair scrunchie, fuzzy flip flops, or a can cozy. It gets soooo cold here:wcold by Christmas time everyone is ready for summer weather.
Or.....would hats & scarves be more appropiate??

[dogymom]

I have a question for y'all, Last year I made 12 purses for gifts for dd's friends, Would it be 'goofy' to make them market/beach bags this year??:think Maybe put with it a book marker, sun glasses case, hair scrunchie, fuzzy flip flops, or a can cozy. It gets soooo cold here:wcold by Christmas time everyone is ready for summer weather.
Or.....would hats & scarves be more appropiate??

What a cool idea!!!!! I like it!!!! Maybe include a beach postcard?

[Debbi-a1]

Ellie, looks good. Love the sock.
Love the Beach Bag idea!

Dad's Afghan Sqaures started.
http://i69.photobucket.com/albums/i67/Debbi-a1/1stsquare.jpg
The blue square I've done
http://i69.photobucket.com/albums/i67/Debbi-a1/2ndsquare.jpg
The off white one I've started.
I'm using square #33 Silt Stitch square from the 63 Easy to Rcochet Pattern Stitches leaflet.
Still working on my crochet quilt...

Debbi

[macgillie]

Sunrisedq, I love the beach bag idea for Christmas. Give everybody something to look forward to!

[MamaHooks]

I have a question for y'all, Last year I made 12 purses for gifts for dd's friends, Would it be 'goofy' to make them market/beach bags this year??:think Maybe put with it a book marker, sun glasses case, hair scrunchie, fuzzy flip flops, or a can cozy.

Don't take this wrong but you totally forgot something... CHOCOLATE!!! You need to put chocolate in those beach bags. Book markers, sun glasses cases, hair scrunchies, fuzzy flip flops, or a can cozies are all great but chocolate is awesome. :devil

[sunrisedq]

Oh yeah!! HOW could I forget one of the main food groups....CHOCOLATE!! LOL At that age they do crave it... not sure if I can handle it when puberity hits.......I'll have to SHARE my stash!! LOL:rofl :rofl :rofl
Thanks everyone for the encouragement, NOW I have a game plan.
Huggles, Sunrisedq

[sunrisedq]

P.S. Would homemade fudge cover it???
Huggles, Sunrisedq

[Laura A.]

Debbie,

Beautiful job on your blue square! :) I think I have the same booklet so I'll check out square # 33. Are you making the squares for an afghan and if so will you be using the same square for the entire piece or using different squares from the book? In any event, it'll be a beauty when completed. :cheer

I'm very impressed by everyone's lists and already completed items for Christmas. I think I need to commit by actually listing my "hope to complete" for the upcoming season so here goes,

1. Lap Blanket (my Mom...and I'm near to completetion on this)
2. Coaster sets (Friends)
3. Opal Socks (my Daughter-in-Law)
4. Leg Warmers (my Mom)
5. Aran Baby Blanket (my new grandbaby)
6. Hats (nephew, sons)

All of the above with the exception of the hats, have been started and are in different stages of completion but it will take some good old fashioned self discipline to make sure they ALL get finished in time. Good luck to everyone with all of your lovely projects and we can continue to cheer each other on here. :yay

[Debbi-a1]

I am going to use the same pattern and make a variety of color of squares in shades of blue, white and off white. Since I crochet so looose my squares are about 8-9 inches instead of 7 inches, without the final boarder (not sure which color yet, probably a blue).
Debbi
PS: I noticed my blue square looks a little off, but it's just started and I sort of took the pic on an angle... :P

[CrochetCasper]

sunrisedq - I love the beach theme idea for the girls!!

-----


I think I finally have most of my crochet to-do list together for christmas...or at least "wish" list since I don't think I'll ever have enough time to complete it all!

Afghan in sage green - mom
Afghan in blue - aunt
4 scarves - aunts
Afghan - nephew
Shawl in teak - mother-in-law
Stuffed penguin - hubby
Stuffed animal (not sure what specifically yet) - niece
mini stockings - lots of people

luckily I've started some of it already, I have 3 scarves done, and half of the afghan for my nephew completed. And I ordered yarn today for two of the afghans, so that should be all the yarn I'll need for my projects. Now, if I'm able to complete all of these by christmas, I'll be happy!! Of course, there are a couple other people I'd like to make afghans for, but that'll probably have to wait until next year, unless I want to quit my job and stay home and crochet from now till christmas. :) You can see a couple things I'm working on on my blog.

Everyone's great ideas here have encouraged me to get this list together and get to work!

[Notuswind]

Count me in! I have a few bed dolls I want to make for some older relatives who've mentioned having them when they were young girls. :)

btw - how do i add the button to my sig? thanks in advance...

[Redhead Deb]

In another place and time, I would LOVE to join everyone! I have too many things on my plate at the present so I'm not planning on making gifts. However . . . I will definitely be reading and making a list of all the great ideas. Happy crocheting to all of you!

:cheer

[cozyhomelife]

Vickie, you probably have seen this already, but I just ran over it yesterday. Maybe someone else hasn't seen it yet. My mom also loves cute penguins, so maybe it has her name on it this year!:
http://www.angelfire.com/folk/celtwich/Penguin.html

[minwifeof4boys]

I keep getting distracted with swaps :P
I ahve finished a blanket for my cousins little girl and a matching stuffed mouse... I finished the mouse for her twin brother and need to buy a tad bit more yarn to finish the blanket...

Working my way through a cross stitch project of massive proportions for my youngest ds ( a full size monopoly board)

Bought the yarn to make felted tiny totes for all the girls....

AND a hook case for my MIL....

I did just finish 2 scarves and a couple of treats for my mom4x( my scarf swap partner).... and started my Halloween swap today....so many projects... so little time!:hook

[Ellie 13]

C-ville we have a problem!!! I've been working on this throw for my sil, the colors are Oasis, Country blue, light sage, Navy blue and Aran... well Aran is a no dye lot yarn, and I had to purchase more to finish the blanket... and the color is off, I noticed... and she's a crocheter... so i know she's gonna notice... i can't start it over, i'll never finish in time if i do.... what do i do if she hates it??? ya know, once i've decided to crawl back from under the rock i'm gonna hide under......

I can relate. I have alot of Aran and Off White yarns that don't match (some were RAOK'd me). My mom just got RAOK'd with yarn (same guy gave some last week), alot of it was Light Sage, Aran, Off White and different shades of blue (LOL). Some lables have #'s, even if they say "no dye lot". I always take a sample when I shop. I lay it along side the strands of a skien. If I can't "see" it, I know it's the right color. Hope this helps.
Ellie 13

[sunrisedq]

I was making progress on my orniments and started my gifts, then... I got a little side tracked!!:eek I've made many things for halloween last week and will this week then.. I can get back to Christmas stuff!!:yay I just :manyheart all the holidays!!

[Ellie 13]

YAY!!! I finished my first Xmas gift! It's OldBagLady's fish purse for my niece:

http://www.synergy4results.com/images/fish.jpg
Love it!! Where do I get the pattern? I found one for a frog bag.
Ellie 13

[Ellie 13]

P.S. Would homemade fudge cover it???
Huggles, Sunrisedq
Mashed Potato Fudge (yes potato!)
3 TBLS butter
3 oz. (3 squares) baking chocolate
1 Lb powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1/3 C. mashed potato (leftovers or make instant flakes)
8 X 8 buttered pan
Melt butter + choc. in double boiler, add potato + vanilla, mix well. Remove from heat, add powered sugar, when it gets stiff, dump onto wax paper + knead the "dough". Press dough into pan + refridgerate. Very yummy!!
Ellie 13

[darski]

Vickie, you probably have seen this already, but I just ran over it yesterday. Maybe someone else hasn't seen it yet. My mom also loves cute penguins, so maybe it has her name on it this year!:
http://www.angelfire.com/folk/celtwich/Penguin.html

That penguin is adorable - thanks for letting me know it was there.:hug

[acrhrttcwgrl]

I am like a few others got a little side tracked with the halloween swap, but that is done and out of the way. Also have made about 10 dish clothes..completed a round ripple for my neices 1st bday in Jan. Started and couldn't put it down. but that is done now. I have also been working on 12 in squares for my GreatAunt's comfortghan..she has been diagnosed with lung and liver cancer, so we are all praying for her.

[PBLKNP]

Well, I've completed all the squares for my Christmas afghan for my friends and am now sewing them together. I have discovered that this thing is WAY bigger than I imagined :lol . And this is before the final border I'm planning to crochet all the way around it. I'm hoping to get done before the end of the week, so that I can work on my OTHER Christmas projects...

[CrochetCasper]

I just got a whole box of yarn in the mail today - woohoo!!

Anyway, I think I have all the yarn I need now to make my christmas presents. :) I started on the "Bed of Roses" afghan from the new Crochet Today! magazine as a gift for my mom last night. And I'm still deciding on the pattern to use for the yarn I bought to make an afghan for my aunt. Those are the two "big" projects that I'm making a priority. The others are smaller, so I'll probably wip those up when I get bored with making afghans.

[Hellbo]

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k105/HellboKilic/Blankieslipps.jpg

I finished the blanket a few weeks ago & had yarn leftover so I made a pair of slippers over the weekend from Erika Knight's Simple Crochet to go with it.
I might give the blanket a wash & attempt to block it as the bottom is weighed down a bit & out of shape. but other than that I'm happy to have one project ticked off!!!:yes

[minwifeof4boys]

what a wonderful set... you have done a great job with both of them... I really like the slippers...:cheer

[Sennight]

I am definently in!!

My first CAL ever!!!

I only joined last week and have found so much inspiration. I wanted to join a crochet-along and as it turns out I just spent the last weekend thinking about what to make everyone for christmas to show off my new found hobby!!!

I want to make afghans. 1 for = my boyfriend Clint, my sister Skye, my mum, my grandma.

I also want to make afghans for my Great Grandparents who are currently residing in Eventide Nursing Home in Charters Towers in Queensland, Australia.
My Great Grandma is blind and has alot of trouble moving around due to numerous falls and a broken hip. I want to make her one with lots of texture so she can feel how nice it is instead of seeing how pretty it looks. My Great-Grandad on the other hand, he can move around and has a four wheeler he zooms around on. He has Emphysema and not very long to live either with the need for an oxygen tank to always be with him. I think that I will make their afghans first and then work on the others after these are done.

Will keep you posted when I decide on patterns!!!

[jchllm]

This is my first....'this is what I've done' post...... Late last week I finished all the squares for DH's king size afghan, now I just have to join them. :eek
Right now I"m also working on a blanket done in shells, for my DD in all kinds of colors. I let her pick out the colors for the most part to make sure she'd like it, but she doesn't get it until Christmas!!

I'm getting there......slowly but surely........

[SeaShelly]

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k105/HellboKilic/Blankieslipps.jpg

I finished the blanket a few weeks ago & had yarn leftover so I made a pair of slippers over the weekend from Erika Knight's Simple Crochet to go with it.
I might give the blanket a wash & attempt to block it as the bottom is weighed down a bit & out of shape. but other than that I'm happy to have one project ticked off!!!:yes

Lovely. May I ask what material the yarn you used is? Cotton, wool??

[sunrisedq]

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h310/sunrisedq/IMG_0650.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h310/sunrisedq/IMG_0647_2.jpg

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h310/sunrisedq/IMG_0648_2.jpg

Just a few little things I've been working on.:hook
Hugs, Sunrisedq

[unicorn37757]

Oh they're so cute!:yay

[angelfire]

I have started making my snowmen...I will post when I get a few done.

[kazily]

I need to work faster. I am almost half way done the ghan I'm working on (Pics in my blog, I am on square 13 now though). I have also finished a few washclothes. I have enjoyed reading how everyone is coming along on their Christmas gifts.

[tinkerpuppet]

I'd like to join! I have a big list of things I want to get done before/for Christmas. A few purses, shawls, hat/scarf sets, an afghan (that I've just started!). And on top of that, I'd like to make a tree skirt and three stockings for my husband, son and myself. I found a great stocking pattern on the Michaels website a few months ago, saved the link. But when I went to get it last week, it was gone! That will teach me to save free patterns I like to my harddrive!

Thanks for starting this CAL, it will really help with motivation and inspiration!

[Sennight]

They're great!! Keep up the good work!!!

[j_kawano]

im still stuck on what to make for christmas for my family.
My list is short though, it includes...
Grandma, Mum, Dad, Hubby, and my son.
And still no idea what to make. Any ideas.... :(

[Sennight]

I'm crazy on afghans at the moment. Why don't you make a pilowghan for one of them??? It is in the Pillowghan CAL if you would like the pattern.

[PBLKNP]

I'm happy to report my afghan for a Christmas present is all done! I finally crocheted the border last night. I'll try to put up some pictures, once I figure out how...

[Ellie 13]

I finished 15 Christmas stockings, I'm now working on 4 small purses for my nieces, but I'm still not sure what to do for a 6 yo boy.
I'm also making rhubarb marmalade and a relish with my green tomatoes.
Ellie 13

[Debbi-a1]

Julie, go back through some of these posts, most of us have listed what we're making for people, which could give you ideas. Hats or slippers would be nice if you need something quick. Afghans are always nice and there are the quick afghans with several strands of yarn that you could do if you're short on time. Otherwise regular afghans are nice. I may end up doing quick ones if at all for my family as it's getting short on time. You could do shawls for your grandma and mom, maybe a lap afghan that could be both (I was thinking of that for a friend).
Not sure what else. Maybe go through the show and tell section, that may help.
What do they like or are interested in? That may help you decide on what to make them.
Good luck.
Debbi

[Crafty_Boy_13]

alright, well im inspired by the whole CAL thing...
so im gonna make this one my first!!!
im actually going out today to get some yarn so i can make my beautiful girlfriend an equally beautiful afghan for christmas.
im amazed that you can all start Christmas projects that early...
anyways, im happy to be joining my first CAL!!!

[Crafty_Boy_13]

well after one day i've got 3 rows done...
thats even thhough i had to work 5 hours and i had to actually buy the yarn
btw, i'll be keeping statistics in my signature.
some people hate statistics, but i find them inspiring.
i mean at my current rate of 3 rows per day, i'll be done by Nov. 20th
my afghan pattern has over 22,500 stitches in it. and every one will be filled with my love for my girlfriend.
hows everyone else coming along?

[Crochet_Gram]

I finished 15 Christmas stockings, I'm now working on 4 small purses for my nieces, but I'm still not sure what to do for a 6 yo boy.
I'm also making rhubarb marmalade and a relish with