Menkreatikkul; Saturday Stitches

I've had a productive week. Last weekend, Mac1 asked if I would make some items for a couple of her running and kayaking chums: a headband and wrist warmers for one lady, and just a pair of wrist warmers for another. I produced all five items on Saturday in simple crochet; for the headband set, it was a straightforward single crochet (UK double) back-loop-ridged pattern, and for the other wristbands, I opted for a half-double and double crochet (UK triple) front-and-back post alternate ribbing pattern. When she left for the ferry early on Sunday, I realised I hadn't photographed them for you! I did find this image of the scbl stitching on Google Images, courtesy of Nordic Hook:

That's actually not too far from being the colour of yarn I used for that set, either... mine was slightly more to the blue (aqua). The other set was in a multicoloured cotton, and whilst this example with the front post ribbing is all done in line, you get the idea of the texture achieved. By offsetting the stitches on each row, the effect was closer to a basket-weave than straight ribbing. I will make some more for myself this way, because they were really comfy and looked rather fab.

That got me started back on the small wearables, quick results sort of gig again, so I had a trawl through some of my bookmarked patterns for inspiration and ways to use up yet more of my not inconsiderable yarn stash. There were quite a few that were calling to me...

I began with this one because it is called EDINBURGH EVENINGS... I mean, how could I not?!! Due to getting back into knitting, my crochet mojo had been on the back burner somewhat. The items from last Saturday proved to me why I love the craft so much - it is waaaay faster than knitting (for me at least). Knitting requires rather more concentration, whilst I can crochet with my eyes closed. 

That's not a joke, BTW...

Anyhoo... 

That's me using up more of my cheap-and-cheerful acrylic stash. You see it here seconds after the final stitch and, therefore, unblocked - but I may not even do that, because it shows up pretty well as is. I may go on to produce matching beanie and mitts, but not quite yet. It was a very easy two-row repeat pattern using linked triple (UK double triple) and chain stitching - a perfect podcast or telly-watching ... or, indeed, eyes-closed project! This is the third pattern I have taken from Moogly's website, and they have all been brilliantly written, so I can highly recommend them.

That was done over three evenings, and I had one night without anything in my hands. That needed remedying. The next project I selected required knitting in the round... but I had left the circular set down in The Grey. I could have walked to where he is parked and got them... however, I also was due to get my challenge of using double-pointed needles back on the go. I had not done anything since the first attempt half a year ago. Thus, the next thing got cast on... Will report on that next week!