Chicken Sweater

A couple of weeks ago, a friend at work asked me if I could crochet a chicken sweater. I can usually crochet just about anything if I have a pattern. So I said sure. Before I continue, I have to give a little backstory. I work at a school, and our end of year is quickly approaching. One of our teachers is retiring after 39 years. He and his wife recently started raising chickens. My friend is in charge of the end of year celebration, where we honor teachers and staff. She also does a selection of gag gifts, like large, obnoxious keychain to teachers who repeatedly lose their keys, things like that.

So, we are honoring this particular teacher for his retirement, but also presenting him with gag gifts for his new hobby. Hence, the chicken sweater.

So, when she asked, I immediately started a search for a pattern. There are lots of patterns for chicken sweaters, but most of them are knit. The ones I did find in crochet were paid patterns. Since it was for a gag gift, I really didn’t want to pay for the pattern. I figured I’d never make another chicken sweater, so why pay?

I searched Pinterest, finding some really cute ones, but clicking the pictures sucked me into the internet wormhole of hell, and no patterns.

I posted a status on FB, uttering nine words I never thought I’d say in a complete sentence. “I can’t find a chicken sweater pattern I like.”

I posted in a couple of the FB crochet groups I belong to, and while I know people were trying to be helpful, I was sent to Etsy (paid), Ravelry (paid) and Pinterest (wormhole), or told me to measure the chicken and make my own. I was beginning to think no one actually read my post as I stated that a) it was a gag gift for someone at work (figuring it was obvious I didn’t have the chicken) and b) that it must be a free pattern.

Finally someone posted a link to a free,easy pattern. For the most part, I did follow this pattern, with a few of my own adjustments. I’m happy with the finished product.

The end of year gathering is Wednesday. I hope he likes it.

Latest projects

Three and a half months into the year. Wow, where has the time gone? I’m trying to be better organized with my projects. I’ve started a crochet book, where I’m writing down my projects, yarn and hooks used, patterns, etc. It’s helping. I crochet for relaxation, but I also make things to sell at craft shows. I used to do any and all craft shows I could find. Now, I do a big one in the fall, and maybe a few little ones here and there, but I generally just concentrate on the fall show. I did commit to doing a fundraiser in August though, for the pet rescue where I got my most recent baby, a sweet little Yorkie, about a month ago.

Anyway, here are some of my projects completed so far this year:

The latest completion is this cute giraffe pillow. Pattern is from Leisure Arts book, “Fun Animal Pillows”

Then there’s this scarf, no pattern, just hdc.

I made this nice warm throw for me out of blanket yarn I found at a thrift store. It came to n handy when we had our freak snowstorm a few weeks ago (18 inches in one day in northern Arizona!) and we were without power for about 6 hours.

These are current WIPs:

A C2C throw

A lacy summer top

I’m also working on a few other projects that I haven’t gotten around to taking pictures of yet – an owl pillow, an amigurumi elephant, another scarf. I’ll get pics soon.

Until next time.

Starting Over

It’s been several years since I did anything with this blog. So, with this new year, I am starting again. I’m going to be blogging on my projects, progress, and other things related to what is Desert Chick Designs. I crochet, I bead, I do a variety of other crafts. Like what I do, or don’t. That’s your choice. I craft to relax, to pass the time, and because I enjoy it. I make crafts to give to friends, I sell at craft shows, and I take custom orders. I hope you enjoy what you see here.

Turkey Day!

A Successful Show

Had a successful show this weekend. There were 3 of us in our booth, my friends Carolyn (pictured) and Janet, and myself. Carolyn did the best, but I made about $135, so I was pleased. Not sure when our next show will be, would like to do a couple more before Christmas but nothing scheduled yet.

More jar cozies

I made more jar cozies tonight. Setting up for the show tomorrow night so I think I’m done creating for now.

I also made this ornament. I wanted to make more, but I ran out of time.

Ready or not, it’s almost show time.

Snowman and Christmas Tree Jar Cozies

I was browsing the interwebs the other day looking for cute crochet snowmen patterns. I came across this pattern for a snowman jar cozy and thought I’d try it. It’s really cute and easy.

I decided I’d try other designs as well. My first variation is what I’m calling a Christmas Tree. I used Red Heart green and silver Holiday yarn and glued on some tinsel pompoms for the decorations. I’m pleased with the way it turned out.

I have a couple of other ideas in mind. Once I get them done I will share them as well.

Tuesday

Will I make it? I still have several items I want to make before Friday. I have to be done by Friday because that’s when we set up. I have a feeling the next two nights are going to be long ones.

One day closer

Monday is almost done. So far today I’ve made two jar cozies and several magnets. We’ll, I’ve crocheted the jar cozies; I still need to add the buttons. I’ll post pics once I get some completely finished.

The magnets are a new craft. I originally started using some large buttons I had. Then I saw a post in a group I belong to and thought I’d give their idea a shot. The magnets are made using up cycled costume jewelry. It’s a great use for broken earrings and pendants. Sorry for the quality of the pics.

Sunday crafting

I am so behind on my crafting. I have a huge craft fair next weekend and I am nowhere near ready. I have ornaments to make, dog sweaters to crochet, I need to finish my jar cozies, make more dog toys, get things priced….I’m looking at a few long nights ahead of me this week. I’ll post a few pics later of some of the items I will have for sale.