The squares are together!

After sitting on the back of my couch for at least a month, the squares for my niece's blanket are finally together! At first, I couldn't figure out how to do it, so I was discouraged and left them sitting. But last night I sat down with my book, determined to master it. I know, putting them together is truly simple. I'm not afraid anymore!

I joined the square motifs with a slip stitch which requires the use of a crochet hook (as opposed to joining with stitching which requires the use of a crochet needle). By using the slip stitch it creates a firm ridge on one side of the blanket, as you can see in the photo.

Now, for the border and finishing touches... much less intimidating for me!)

The Spark

It's no wonder I have been "hooked" (pun intended) by crochet, the word itself is apparently French. No, I'm actually not French, well maybe a little, but mostly German...although, I did study French throughout high school and college and have always held a deep love for France, the French language and Paris. Back to the spark...

What truly sparked my interest, beyond my family's history with the craft of crocheting, was the hope to make something for a co-worker. This friend of mine is about to have a baby and I wanted to make something special for her and her new addition. I present to you, project number two:

The pattern came from a pattern book which can be bought at Joann Fabrics. The yarns that I chose were both Lion Brand, one being Pound of Love in Antique White and the other, Vanna's Choice Baby in Sweet Pea. The Pound of Love yarn is a bit thinner, stringier...and just altogether more difficult to work with. The pattern I used called for a G6 (4.00mm) hook, which was fine for the Vanna's Choice. I did however have to increase to an H8 (5.00mm) hook in order to keep the gauge with the Pound of Love.

All in all, I'm pretty pleased with the way it came out. Of course, there are a few spots that I can see and point out where I made mistakes...but that's just the perfectionist in me.