Monday, October 22, 2007

THAT GRANNY MOMENT......

For days I’ve struggled with crochet hook and wool trying to figure out the pattern, but sadly with each frustrating attempt I failed, my single crochets and clusters of double crochets were simply not working out into the desired shape.

It maddened me more because way back in the 70’s I’d crocheted a jacket that involved this very same pattern, so why did the technique allude me now I kept asking myself. In theory it seemed a pretty basic pattern, I held the wool correctly, I understood how to do each individual stitch, so what was going wrong!! Eventually I gave up and packed it all away, but then, each time I glanced through Cath Kidston’s catalogue and saw her beautiful blanket my enthusiasm was resurrected. And I’m so glad it was too, for last week, as I sat in the quietness of the morning I tried again..... Finally, the penny dropped and that wonderful ‘granny moment’ came, I did it!!! and you know what! its so simple.....

Now, with each spare moment I have, I ‘granny-along’ with hook and yarn. I have to thank Cath Kidston for renewing my determination to achieve this, as well as saving me the £160 it would have cost to purchase one of hers.

19 comments:

LAUREN at Faith Fuel said...

I love Cath Kidston's style- and your plucky perseverence!

Ramblins of a middle-aged goddess said...

Perseverance and Patience!! That is what it takes sometimes. I made one of those years ago with black holding them all together. I have not made one in years though. Looks good to me!! Glad you kept going!!
Sandy

Willow said...

Don't you just love how relaxing and mesmerizing the granny squares are? Last spring I made TWO blankets, one for a wedding gift and one for me.

Betty said...

Dear Friend Marion,
Your granny squares are perfect....you didn't give up...

Years ago when I was Acting Postmaster at our little village post office....my girls wanted a crocheted vest...I didn't crochet...on faith I bought a hook and yarn and a lady came in and got me started....another one would tell me what to do next. I made two vests and two afghans and I still don't know the names of the stitches....both afghans were granny squares....Betty

Willow said...

Marion,
Thank you for your thoughts and concerns for our safety. So far, we are fine. But our MamaMia in San Diego is packed, wondering if the evacuation order will come.

Ms. Kathleen said...

I love to crochet. I find it so relaxing. I am not that great and I am self taught (about 23 years ago) but each Autumn I find myself pulling out the hook and yarn. The picture is lovely! I can't wait to see the finished product.
Blessings to you!

Susie said...

I have two granny square afghans from the 80's that were made for me. They probably never go out of style, but the colors scream 80's! . Perhaps, I'll post a picture someday. Good for you for not giving up!!
xo

Val said...

Now I havent done that for years and years. I have a couple of things I made for my eldest - she is thirty now!! I wonder if I could still manage it......

Mountain Mama said...

Your post made me smile because I have done the very same thing. I finally purchased with dozens of Granny Square Patterns. I have a nice supply of yarns and when the mood hits, I going to be doing some 'grannying'too.
I enjoy your blog very much.

kate said...

I think it's great that you figured the Granny square out all by yourself! Your squares are wonderful colours.

I once made a huge bedspread that grew and grew because I loved making the squares. After that, I made one that was just a huge granny square. I kept that one and still use it. Unfortunately it is a predominantly cream colour and my chocolate lab is inordinately fond of sleeping on it.

Barbara said...

Glad you did not give up Marion as they look good.
I have just posted a post with a surprise.

Anonymous said...

I am going to be so jealous. It is going to be beautiful. Glad you were able to figure it out.

Hugs,
Connie

Anonymous said...

Hi Marion,

As someone who can knit but has never mastered crochet, I think that your crochet squares are so pretty and will make a lovely blanket ~ I really admire your determination.

Marie x

La Tea Dah said...

Very beautiful! I love the colors you have selected. I understand your frustration with the hook and thread! I've had similar frustrations with the knitting needles. When it finally all came together it was such an 'ah-hah' moment!

Have fun!
LaTeaDah

Kerri said...

Good for you for persevering Marion. It's been years since I've crocheted. I used to knit a lot, but haven't done that in ages either. My oldest daughter knits all the time...just like my mum used to. It's wonderful to pass these crafts along to younger generations.
I'm sure your blanket will be beautiful.
My 4 O'Clocks have been frosted so I'll be gathering the seeds to grow more next year. I enjoyed them very much, especially because they made me think of you :)

Anonymous said...

I am glad you found out how to do it.

I am working on a granny square blanket in green and blue for my blue garden.

Anonymous said...

you need to visit the granny along blog - heres the link if your interested.
http://www.grannyalong.blogspot.com/

Unknown said...

Best to you on being so determined! I admire that tremendously. Have a nice weekend! :)

Barbara said...

Missing you. When are you coming back?