Link Published by Chainthe Guild of America • Volume 16 Number 5 • Sept. 2007 Inside... President’s Letter Reviews The way magazines are produced necessitates that I write this to discounts with our participating travel businesses…when you show p. 2 message weeks before the annual meeting, and you unfortunately get to your Auto Club membership card, your savings can more than pay for read this after the annual meeting the cost of your annual membership.” Member Spotlight p. 3 I always believed that everyone interested in crochet would want to What a great idea! Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could do the same be a member of CGOA and would want to join with other interested with our membership card? That started the Board not just thinking but Chapter News p. 4 crocheters to promote the craft we love. I have discovered, however, doing. We’ve been out there “beating the bushes” looking for discounts that many crocheters question the validity of joining. “What do I get for on yarn, on supplies, on publications. Our plan is to make the CGOA Book Review my $35?” is the perpetual question. membership—like the auto club membership—pay for itself. p. 5 My small crochet group has 15 enthusiasts who are happy to Now, if you were at the annual meeting, you probably heard us Member meet once a month to share their crochet projects and to learn new announce the plan. By the time you read this, I’m hoping that we’ve Interviews p. 6 techniques. But there are only about 3 of us who are CGOA members. worked out all of the kinks, and that we’ll be able to tell you exactly Executive The mother of ten children has to think twice about spending $35 what discounts we’ve arranged. We’re going to answer that perpetual Director’s on her hobby. Should she use that extra $35 to buy yarn, or to join an question; we’re going to be able to say, “Plenty!” Message p. 7 organization with no tangible benefits? Can I ask the member who Who says driving a car is better than crocheting? Masters in Thread takes old projects apart so she can re-use the yarn to put up $35 to Graduate p. 8 support the world of crochet when she can barely afford to buy yarn? Rita Weiss Recently I read an advertisement from the American Automobile Association in which they announced that “Your membership is about to pay for itself.” Why? Because “as an auto club member, you’re entitled

Moderator’s Message The CGOA Online Message Board is proving to be a fun and CGOA Chapters with. Until Chapters can be established in all of educational addition to CGOA’s growing Crochet World. our home towns, the online board is here to provide the CGOA members with a much needed way to communicate with, and Lyn Robinson graciously volunteered to be a moderator to the enjoy the friendship and knowledge, of those who are committed list. Her style and knowledge are very appreciated. Lyn’s attendance to Crochet. and perspective of events will be an enormous benefit in keeping those who cannot attend informed. The existing and newly created Chapters are growing and providing the seeds for generations of crochet enthusiasts to Samantha Stopple has volunteered to organize our Crochet advance, improve, and enjoy. These CGOA Chapters are to be Along’s for this year. She is working with our talented and admired for providing inspiration to everyone who wants to generous designers to provide the on line list with CAL’s that will be on top of, and involved in, everything Crochet. There is no provide us with fun while extending our crochet education. amount of praise that can describe the gratitude deserved by those Dawn Dempsey is our moderator who keeps our online group who belong to, organize, contribute to, and maintain the CGOA safe with the approval process. Dawn’s hard work keeps our online Chapters. membership up to date and current. If you are taking advantage of the online CGOA Membership Treva McCain is our communication liaison, Treva is our behind Board group--you are in excellent company. If you have not yet the scenes guide, and keeps us advised on all CGOA happenings. taken advantage of this CGOA benefit, please join us! We look Without the advice, help and guidance of these volunteers, the forward to sharing our Crochet World with you. online list could not function! Sincerely- Our database is being updated--so that the members who do not Sandy “Sandyfroglegs” Scofield in DeMotte, Indiana. have the benefit of belonging to a CGOA Chapter, are able to go CGOA Message Board Moderator into the base to seek other members whom they can create new Crochet Guild of America CGOA Yarn Review/Evaluation

2007 Name and Residing State (Identification) of contributing CGOA mem- Yarn characteristics: Officers & ber - Audrey Morris, Los Angeles, CA 1 - Ease of working with? I found it fine, but beginners might find the variation Directors Date of review/evaluation - April 2007 in width and difficulty in seeing your stitches to be annoying 2 - Does it produce airborne lint while working with it? Not to speak of. President Basic Yarn information: Rita Weiss Does it shed while wearing? Yes! Mine sheds very long pieces of white 1 - Name of Yarn being reviewed/evaluated? Patons Divine (mohair?). I used the Deep Earth (darkish brown) color. 2 - Fiber content and weight? 79.5% Acrylic, 18% Mohair, 2.5% Polyester Bulky Vice President 3 - Does it pill? Don’t know yet Nancy Brown weight (5) See www.patonsyarns.com/product.php?LGC=divine for colors, etc. Does it show wear even while working with it? Not that I could see. 3 - How many ply? At least 2--one heavy, uneven and multicolored (perhaps more 4 - Any stretch? Not built into the yarn, but some stitches would produce Secretary than 1), one thread-like and solid color Vashti Braha stretch, just like with any other yarn. 4 - W.P.I. or Wraps per inch? 6-7 5 - Similar or identical to another yarn? I used it in lieu of the Red Heart 5 - What does this yarn retail for? about 4.99/skein (142 yards) Treasurer Symphony called for in the pattern I had. Joann’s has a house brand version. It’s Treva McCain 6 - Where did you purchase it? Joanns or Michaels, I had bought it on sale for a just one of those bulky, fuzzy-mohair type . different sweater and misplaced my pattern 6 - How does it reflect light? (matte, sparkly, lustrous, chalky)? Matte; it is Directors 7 - Where can it be purchased? mass market stores/online/some of my LYS Carol Alexander very fuzzy and it CAN reflect if light hits it perfectly. Ed Hamrick Project Specifics: 7 - Does the yarn look good crocheted? I think so, but someone who wants to Marty Miller 1 - What project worked successfully using this yarn? granny-square based see every stitch detail would not like it. sweater from Aug 2006 Hooked on Crochet Care of yarn: 2 - Can you do several different kinds of stitches with it, or do you have 1 - How is it cleaned? it says to hand wash, dry flat. I will be using the gentle to keep it simple to see the stitches? This yarn is bulky and uneven in its size, cycle and drying flat. so only simple stitches will show the details. I didn’t want the stitch detail to be 2 - How does the fabric look after it’s been cleaned? Don’t know yet super obvious for this project, so it was perfect. 3 - Does it hold its shape and size? I don’t know about post-cleaning; it does 3 - What Hook size did you use? I used an L to get my size halfway between the NOT stretch out on a hanger, though. S and M sizes. My gauge perfectly matched that of the pattern, and it worked. 4 - Drape of the finished fabric? It drapes, but it makes a pretty heavy fabric. Summary/ Recommendations: 5 - What projects would you say this yarn is more suited for? hats/scarves, 1 - Would you purchase again? If I am going for this look again, I will certainly a poncho or sweater without too much “drapyness” required. It would make a very consider it, epsecially if it’s on sale and in the color I want. warm and cozy afghan. 2 - Would you keep a item crocheted with this yarn for yourself? I am!

*Name and Residing State (Identification) of contributing CGOA member- 5 - What projects would you say this yarn is more suited for? garments, Carole Sullivan, Vail, Arizona but not loose stitches.. *Date of review/evaluation- March 07-completed April 10 07 Yarn characteristics: Basic Yarn information: 1 - Ease of working with? zips along with ease. doesn’t split 1 - Name of Yarn being reviewed/evaluated? BERNAT HAVEN (NEW) 2 - Does it produce airborne lint while working with it? barely noticeable 2 - Fiber content and weight? 59% acrylic, 22% cotton, 16% alpaca, 3% Does it shed while wearing? didnt appear to --too hot to keep on long right now nylon www.Bernat.com 77 yards to 50 gr/1.75 oz made in Taiwan, bulky weight, 3 - Does it pill? not at this point--may with wear Does it show wear even I chose color of honeysuckle while working with it? yes...cant discern plies 4 - Any stretch? only because of stitch used.. 3 - How many ply? 3-4--hard to tell 5 - Similar or identical to another yarn? maybe Divine?? I remember using 4 - W.P.I. or Wraps per inch? depends on hook size, label states, with *m* that but it has been some time. hook, 8 sc, 9 rows, = 4 inches my pattern says 7 sc, 9 rows, with *N* = 4 inches 6 - How does it reflect light? this is a matte with a sprinkling of white--rather --I obviously couldnt get that gauge.... nice looking! 5 - What does this yarn retail for? 4.99 per skein--I paid sale of 3.49 7 - Does the yarn look good crocheted? I am certain it would look better each...(15 skeins for design I chose, yikes) with a hook more suitable to the size of the yarn itself... 6 - Where did you purchase it? JoAnn’s online 7 - Where can it be purchased? wherever Bernat is sold..this is new so would Care of yarn: check online first. 1 - How is it cleaned? hand wash, dry flat 2 - How does the fabric look after it’s been cleaned? n/a (yet) Project Specifics- 3 - Does it hold its shape and size? n/a (yet) 1 - What project worked successfully using this yarn? well, not sure, I would have used different hook size to get a more pleasant result. I made a Summary/ Recommendations crochet wrap with sleeves-- a design specific for this yarn. 1 - Would you purchase again? yes, most certainly, but always on sale and 2 - Can you do several different kinds of stitches with it, or do you not so much at once! rather costly for what you get. have to keep it simple to see the stitches? this was a basic design, mostly 2 - Would you keep an item crocheted with this yarn for yourself? I am sc’s--you can see the rows but not the stitches. keeping this--the design and the yarn itself are not suitable for each other in 3 - What Hook size did you use? *N* (too big in my opinion) my opinion. I would buy again to use with another pattern or change the entire 4 - Drape of the finished fabric? stitches are loose and item stretches, but design and use a different hook... the pattern I used was in Bernat’s Havenly drape is ok, actually. for other items, not sure... booklet. Printed in Canada-isbn #1-897272-38-3

◆ 2 Chain Link Chain Link 3 ◆ Member Spotlight Membership information We recently received the most wonderful letter from CGOA member Doris Linzy of Elkton, Maryland. In searching for just the right Mother’s Day gift for her Mother, Doris decided on a CGOA gift membership. Doris reports that her Crochet Guild of America is a Mother was both surprised and pleased with the gift, and was so glad that it came to mind as something that would not-for-profit, honor her and her well honed craft. member organization. We might add that love of the crochet is alive and well in Doris’ family. One of her twin daughters, Kathy, , National as well as three grandchildren, Jacob, 12, Rachel, 10, and Luke 9. The grandchildren are still learning the basics from membership their grandmother. Jacob made a beautiful purple scarf for this past winter. includes a subscription to Crochet! magazine with a Dear Fellow Crochet Artist, Chain Link insert. Annual dues I felt I had to write to say I just purchased a Over the years she has made many beautiful, are $35 (U.S.), membership for my Mother, Doris Heacock, useful, creative crocheted items. She will be $42 (Canada & Mexico), $50 (all for Mother’s Day. I had already purchased a thrilled with the membership---it is my way of other international membership for myself a few weeks ago.....and honoring her art, her creative spirit...... addresses) and when I received the pin, it meant a lot to me. $100 (corporate). And though I know she won’t sign up for courses Dues may be paid Why? she has to pay for to be called a “professional” or by check or “master” crocheter..... my Mother could teach those money order Because I have crocheted since the age of 22, courses! I am hoping that CGOA will not overlook in U.S. funds when I was carrying my son...... I am now 55.... only, payable to the years of mastering stitches, tension, and color many years have passed, many gifts have been Crochet Guild of that so many women and men have creatively done made and given....and cherished....most recently, America. Mailing over time and honor only those who sign up for address: CGOA, the “prayer shawls” I have made for those suffering current courses and titles. I feel that would be an 1100-H Brandywine serious or terminal illness or for those who have Blvd, Zanesville, error. We never build up a creative endeavor by been through traumatic losses. I am not patting OH 43701-7303. overlooking the many years, the many lives, that my own back; I will say that the crocheted shawls Phone: (740) went into developing the craft. 452-4541. E-mail: have meant so much to those receiving them.....that [email protected]. I felt I was the one who received the real gift. It I am hoping that CGOA will be inclusive in its Address correc- is a wonderful thing to be able to present love and honors, not exclusive. So many people deserve tions: Send your compassion in a physical, creative way. recognition for the beauty of their art! mailing label with corrections Back to my Mother. I can remember my Mom Thank you so much for building a cohesive group clearly marked to the address crocheting from the time I was a very young of fiber artists who crochet. I am hoping that my above. Copyright child...... she had me at a very young age, and she Mother will feel the honor that I intend for her via information: All crocheted to make extra money for our family. I this membership! items submitted to know that my Mother could look at a piece of All the best, Chain Link become the property of vintage and reproduce it----that has Doris A. Linzy, RN CGOA. Chain Link always amazed me! [email protected] is copyrighted by 15 South Chestnut Drive the Crochet Guild Elkton, Maryland 21921 of America. All rights reserved except where other copyright notice is given. Please write for Letter from a young crocheter permission to reprint articles. Dear CGOA Members, other the projects of the week and of course we crochet. We learn new stitches and how to read patterns too. We My name is Olivia Natale. I am a member of Stitch N are always welcoming new members, so please come and Witches, our local chapter of CGOA. I go there with my join us. Mom, a friend, and two of my younger sisters. Before I joined the chapter I had no interest in learning how (For more information on the Stitch N Witches Chapter, to crochet, now I love it! The meetings are held on contact Joanne Jillard at [email protected] or Thursday from 6 to 8 PM at the Fordville Crossing Deli in Carol Moore at [email protected]) Gouldtown, NJ. It’s a lot of fun. We eat dinner, show each

◆ 2 Chain Link Chain Link 3 ◆ Looking for a CGOA chapter Chapter News in your area? Check out By Dee Stanziano the complete HHCC Founder/Vice President chapter listing at www.crochet. Hooked on Sheep, and Wool During our individual breaks we got to do some shop- org/chapter.html ping too! I treated myself to some unspun silk hankies, On Saturday, April 28th, members of the Happily and a beautiful wooden from Grafton Hooked on Crocheting Club, Connecticut Chapter of Fibers (creators of our 2005 CGOA Commemorative the CGOA, participated in its first Sheep & Wool Festival Hook). Upon my arrival back to our booth, I could not -- not as spectators, but as demonstrators! Our goal was resist playing with “my new toys.” So I took out my to provide free beginner crochet lessons and to show book, 200 Ripple Stitch Patterns: Exciting Patterns to off, in a mainly spin/knit environment, what crochet is Knit & Crochet for Afghans, Blankets & Throws by Jan all about. Eaton, my unspun silk hankies, and my new crochet Upon our arrival we learned that there was a group hook and started a deliciously soft scarf. Spectators of people already waiting for us to teach them crochet! insisted on an impromptu demonstration of crocheting This was a very encouraging sign! So while HHCC with raw fibers and willingly I obliged. It was amazing members Grace, Ritu and I set up our booth, we had to witness such excitement about crocheting with raw member Elaine, who is working on her Crochet Instruc- fiber! tor Certification, start the free beginner lessons. Her Our first experience as demonstrators at the 98th students took to crochet like a duck to water; smiles Connecticut Sheep & Wool Fiber Festival was a huge were everywhere! success! We were thrilled with how many people took We had several types of crochet on exhibit: a felted us up on our offer to learn how to crochet, and of the bag, freeform crochet, a beaded bikini top, a shawl many minds we changed about what crochet is, or featuring yarn Ritu had spun herself, several Tunisian could be! We do hope to be invited back next year to crochet pieces featuring Grace’s cables, and more! Our repeat this fantastic experience! focus was on using natural fibers, and projects that If you’ve never been to a Sheep & Wool Festival/Fair were not what one would consider to be “grandma’s then do make a point to experience one! There are sev- crochet.” It worked! Some of the many compliments we eral to consider. Visit these websites for more informa- received were: tion: “Wow, this is nothing like what I thought crochet was! Connecticut ... www.ctsheep.org -- April I thought it was all and granny squares -- these items are amazing!” (note: we did not have one Maryland ... www.sheepandwool.org -- May (the “grand- or on display!) daddy” of the S&Ws) “This looks like knitting; are you sure it’s not knitted?” Massachusetts ... www.masheep.org -- May (note: it was Tunisian!) New Hampshire ... www.yankeeshepherd.org -- May “I thought crochet was for grannies only; I had no idea New York ... www.sheepandwool.com -- October you could do these sorts of projects with crochet!” (note: the story about the grannies making undergarments Pennsylvania ... www.co.greene.pa.us/secured/gc/his- in Europe was told, along with the story about the de- tory/Sheep-FiberFest-history.htm -- May signer making a chair out of doilies and selling if for Vermont ... www.vermontsheep.org/festival.html -- $40,000 -- this also helped change the opinion about September what “grannies” are crocheting!) Welcome New Chapters

Madison Area Crochet Guild Always in Stitches Meets Where: The Sow’s Ear, 125 S Main St, Verona, WI 53593 Portland, Oregon Meets When: 4th Thursday of the Month Contact: Sherry Yarger: [email protected] Contact: Debra Morse: [email protected] Web site: crochet.meetup.com/435

For more information on starting a CGOA Chapter in your area, visit http://www.crochet.org/chapter.html

◆ 4 Chain Link Chain Link 5 ◆ Beaded and Felted Tapestry Crochet The new email Book Review by Carol Ventura, pub. in Cookville, TN, 2006. address for Chain Link is newsletter@ Report by Vashti Braha, CGOA Secretary I tried to single out favorite designs and crochet.org. Please can’t, but the Bead Diamond Bracelet With every new book Dr. Ventura outdoes herself! Even if you already submit your articles makes me look for my hook to get own her earlier classics, this latest book will inspire and carefully guide using the new email started! A range of yarn weights, fiber address. you to incorporate beads in your tapestry crochet projects, or to felt types, and hook sizes are used, and it’s them, or both. If you don’t own her other books, or are new to tapestry easy to make substitutions. crochet, all the necessary information is here for even beginners to start from scratch. Separate instructions for lefties are provided. Carol’s It’s important to point out that this signature tapestry graph paper is included. book benefits from being self-published because the author’s extensive experi- There are 16 projects ranging from jewelry to flat bags to bowls and ence, teaching abilities, and strong round-bottom bags. They’re grouped in color-coded chapters of Rounds, vision shine through. Tubes, Circular Spiral, and Oblong Spiral. For me this format facilitates learning tapestry crochet and choosing my next project. Carol will be teaching how to bead and felt tapestry crochet projects at both CGOA conferences this year. www.knitandcrochetshow.com. The striking geometric patterns and symbols are enhanced with selec- tive beading for a 3-D effect and sharpened color contrasts. Felting is a creative, fascinating option for tapestry crochet with or without beading. Chapter News By Gwen Blakley Kinsler “Crochet Buffet” Northern IL Chapter Celebrates National Crochet Month The Northern Illinois Chapter of CGOA was recently presented many options for wire crochet, including the pleased to present to its members a special workshop use of yarn or fabric strips along with the wire. With many by Bonnie Meltzer of Portland, OR. Known as a crochet new ideas to add to their creative baskets the participants artist who works primarily in wire crochet using recycled were happy to have taken advantage of Bonnie’s wealth of computer parts, Bonnie has been a friend of CGOA for knowledge. years She has been an invited artist in several of the CGOA Any chapter wishing to have their own wire crochet art exhibits and her work was featured on the cover of workshop with Bonnie can contact her at: meltzer@ our catalog for the 2003 traveling exhibition. Participants macsolve.com. enjoyed exploring new avenues with their crochet as Bonnie

CGOA Yarn Review/Evaluation *Name and Residing State (Identification) of contributing CGOA member- 4-Drape of the finished fabric? A little stiff but I am going to try and wash it Wendy Marple, Minnesota like Janelle posted. *Date of review/evaluation - March 29,2007 Yarn characteristics: Basic Yarn information: 1- Ease of working with? I thought it was very easy. I didn’t work if it twisted 1 - Name of Yarn being reviewed/evaluated? Lion Brand Incredible or anything. I just used it as it was and it worked up really nice. Ribbon Yarn 2- Does it produce airborne lint while working with it? Does it shed 2 - Fiber content and weight? For details please see www.yarndex.com while wearing? No 5-What does this yarn retail for? I think 4.99 but I got it for $2.00 a skein at 3- Does it pill? Does it show wear even while working with it? No Michaels after someone from CGOA posted the ‘deal.’ 7-Does the yarn look good crocheted? Yes 6-Where did you purchase it? Michaels Summary/ Recommendations Project Specifics- 1- Would you purchase again? Yes, I already have. 1- What project worked successfully using this yarn? Poncho CAL 2- Would you keep a item crocheted with this yarn for yourself? Yes, I 2-Can you do several different kinds of stitches with it, or do you have already have a shrug planned. to keep it simple to see the stitches? Nope, it is easy to work with and to see the stitches 3-What Hook size did you use? J

◆ 4 Chain Link Chain Link 5 ◆ Chain Link is now online! Mini Member Interviews You can find back issues What is your real name (First and Last)? Have you seen a crochet item (not your own work)- in the of Chain Link Jennifer Sarte’ Larck last few months, that made a impression on you? by going to: I have seen a lot of things that impress me...I check out Cro- www.crochet. What city and state do you live in? chet Me a lot. I would love to make fancy designs but I am too org/memonly/nls. html Panama City Beach, Florida impatient.

And is this where you grew up? Do you have a crochet item, that you inherited from another No, I grew up in California family member? ooh ya, my first blanket my Mom made me growing up. Until Where have you lived and what influence did it have on you this day I love that blanket. and your crochet? I guess what influenced my crocheting is my Mom and Have you created a crochet item--that you hope the family Grandma taught me growing up how to crochet. I did not get will pass down through the generations? into it until about 6 months ago. Not yet but I would love to.

What is the name of your site (blog, group)? Can you name drop for us? http://pcbchickinflorida.blogspot.com of course

What can we read about crochet or CGOA there? Is your name out there, attached to crochet? Mostly my projects I am making, my adventures with my kids no and husband. And last but not least What do you think will be the “in” thing Do you crochet? If so, what are you currently working on? in crochet, in the next few months? I am currently making a summer poncho I hope to see more modern designs.

Mini Member Interviews What is your real name (First and Last)? Have you created a crochet item--that you hope the family Natacha Morens will pass down Through the generations? For christmas, I offered one of my creations to my mother What city and state do you live in? And is this where you and hope she will keep it a very long time! grew up? I live in Annecy, France Can you name drop for us? Of course! And what influence did it have on you and your crochet? As I don’t know other crocheter here and thanks to the Is your name out there, attached to crochet?---If so, where do web, the international vision of crochet is a treasure to me! we look? Not yet What is the name of your site (blog, group)? What can we read about crochet or CGOA there? And last but not least, What do you think will be the “in” I have a crochet site (www.helpcrochet.com) and a blog thing in crochet, in the next few months? (http://ilovecrochet.blogspot.com) because it’s very impor- I’m working on kawaii fashion and I think it could give a tant to me sharing my crochet experience as French peaople great vision of crochet for young ladies are very late about it!

Do you crochet? If so, what are you currently working on? I try to become a professional crochet designer and trans- later so I crochet a lot! Great Sites for Free Patterns! Have you seen a crochet item (not your own work)- in the last few months, That made a impression on you? www.crochetpatterncentral.com Yes, I just discovered Twinkie Chan and it’s amazing! http://freecrochetpatterns.lionbrand.com Do you have a crochet item, that you inherited from an- other family member? www.crochetnmore.com I’m the only crocheter in my family http://crochet.about.com www.freepatterns.com

◆ 6 Chain Link Chain Link 7 ◆ Is your local CGOA Executive Director’s Message chapter doing By Penny Sitler something special? We would love to Dear CGOA Members, We really look forward to having you join us in highlight it in the Oakland. Plan some time just for yourself – enjoy next newsletter! See Be sure to watch www.KnitandCrochetShow.com details on page 5. crocheting surrounded by friends old and new, for pictures from the Manchester, New Hampshire perfect your techniques in classes taught by the very show and Chain Link Conference. Oakland’s Knit & best teachers, and shop till you drop on a show floor Crochet Show and CGOA’s Regional Conference is right overflowing with fabulous crochet and knit supplies. around the corner, and I hope you’ve registered. Class What more could you ask for? See you there! tickets are going fast, the education promises to be excellent and new exhibitors are signing up daily, so be Happy crocheting! sure to register today. You won’t want to miss out on all the fun! While at the show, consider volunteering to help CGOA in the membership booth, judging crochet or knit time trials, helping backstage at the fashion show, or perhaps you prefer the limelight – we can always use models for the runway. Let us know at www.crochet.org [email protected] and we’ll sign you up.

New Patterns Added to CGOA’S Pattern Line! Spider Web Lace Shawl By Dark Horse Yarn Staff CGOA 041 Light as a whisper, this 2007 Free lovely shawl is both stylish Member Pattern and elegant, and a perfect ad- Crazy Wavy Hats dition to any outfit. and Scarf By Claire Wudowsky Irish Rose Tube CGOA 040 By Dora Ohrenstein This pattern is free CGOA 042 to members renewing their membership May 26, 2007 This delicate and sexy sum- through May 25, 2008. The designer includes instruc- mer top has lovely drape and texture. The embellishments, tions for two style hats in multiple sizes to insure a adapted from Irish crochet, perfect fit. Paired with the lovely scarf, this set makes add an especially feminine the perfect cool weather accessories. note.

The Goals of CGOA To promote the art and skill of crochet To preserve historical projects To promote future crochet design and ideas To strive towards excellence in all facets of crochet

◆ 6 Chain Link Chain Link 7 ◆ Masters in Thread Graduate By Vashti Braha, Board Liaison to the Education Committee Our first Masters in Thread the differences, etc. It came with no patterns or graduate on record* is Annette instruction in how to go about making said swatches Stewart, founder and currently or pieces. So you must research. As I searched books Vice President of the Greater Dayton and websites I came across various sites that sought Crochet Guild. I asked Annette to preserve the old thread patterns and techniques. to tell us a bit about herself and Way cool! I have joined several forums and have been her thoughts about the Masters in inspired by their efforts. Thread correspondence course. “The most challenging has to be the Irish crochet Annette has been crocheting since her mother in piece. This is an antique pattern that is actually law taught her how in the 1980’s. At that time she available on the web at one of the preservation was working to complete her BA in Art from Wright sites. Translating it to modern crochet vocabulary State University while bringing up four children, and was fascinating and I was able to find a vocabulary crocheting was easier and safer to use around little translation at ones than oil paints. She says, “So I traded my brushes www.antiquepatterns.com. Working the padded for hooks and never looked back.” When she moved stitches was a new experience and a lot of fun. from worsted weight yarns to fine threads, she fell in “To those who plan to take the course I have only love with the fine details and as she puts it, “the grace good things to say about it. It is more difficult than one of the pieces”. would expect at first glance but well worth the effort. About the Masters in Thread course she wrote, “I The only advice is patience. Learning more about this usually work in #10 cotton, as it is so available. I had art, and learning to do it very well in order to teach made only one project in #20 and that was some years others is to me the goal.” ago when my mother in law was teaching me. Had it Besides her passion for teaching crochet, Annette is not been for this masters course I probably would not also a weaver, poet, works as a Stitch/Dresser in the have been exposed to #30 and #50 weights. I am so Theatrical Wardrobe Union; and maintains the website glad I did and found that they work up so fabulously of her guild (www.daytoncrochet.bravehost.com). In delicate that now I am hooked. Also the array of addition to all of this, she has recently been pattern fibers in the course is so varied, Linen, Silk, Rayon, testing for a fellow guild member, Mary Jane Hall, and Acrylic and Nylon as well as Cotton. The course was a one of her own designs will appear in Mary Jane’s next wonderful experience and I recommend it to anyone book. Congratulations, Annette! who loves thread crochet. More information on CGOA’s correspondence “The impact that taking the course has had on courses can be found here: me is in motivation. I love doing research and there is a lot of research involved in completing these www.crochet.org/courses/masters.html courses. What you receive in the course packet is a *There are gaps in the records that were maintained prior to document describing the swatches or pieces you are Offinger Management coming on board with us. to complete in various fibers and a written test where you compare this swatch to that swatch and describe

Helpful Hint

For those who are having a problem with their ‘spools’ or balls of ribbon yarn - try this...

Take a paper towel holder (free standing), remove the paper towel roll and place the spool of ribbon or other ball type yarn on the post. The yarn will unwind easier... at least, it won’t be rolling across the floor. This technique works great for thread crochet. Claudette Arnold Richmond, VA

◆ 8 Chain Link