Adriana's Spring Dress

About a week ago, as I was going through my daughters wardrobe, I realized she has grown out of many nice things faster than I noticed. Time for something new! With the spring coming, the next few months will be a challenge to dress, as always - the weather here turns from hot to cool in an instant. One of the best solutions is always to layer.

So, I decided to make her a sleeveless dress, to be worn over a long sleeve top and a jacket on top of it, if needed. Something simple, something everyday. I browsed through a number of crochet patterns, but most of them were just 'too much' for what I had in mind. This time I simply want cute and practical, but everyday.
So, here is my version.

Simple crochet spring dress

 It has a few flaws, but in general I am rather happy with it. I did it in one peace, starting at the top, added a nice lace detail on the bottom and a pretty finishing at the top. The flowers are Adriana's favorite. The whole dress is worked in 100% virgin wool, which was a little splitty to work with, but bearable. The flowers are made of a soft and slightly fuzzy angora mix in a gentle pink shade.

Another thing is, while I did a gauge swatch and all, it is still a little snug and (because I plan to make another one, slightly moderated), I have recalculated my stitch counts, so the next one will be a bit more loose and will fit longer, too. One more change will be adjusting the lace border. It looks fine, when worn, but it could have been done slightly better... I should get some modeled photos, I guess :)

Anyone care to join me for a 'crochet-a-long'? I am considering writing this pattern up - it is such a quick and rewarding project with a cute, practical result. Let me know, if you do!

Yet another diversion...

It seams that I just can't finish a project without at least one diversion.... And this time, it is a very cute little elephant that I made for my son Alexandro. He really likes it, and that is no surprise!

 This was a test knit for another designer on Ravelry. I saw that in the Free Pattern Testers group and I just could not resist.... The pattern is called Trumpy the African Elephant, by Claire Sibley. It is fairly easy, the only challenge were the British crochet instructions, I am more used to the American ones, and generally much prefer charts anyway - whenever possible, but other than that, it is a well written pattern and if You are thinking of creating a toy, I'd recommend it. I decided to add a bowtie to it, but it would be very easy to improvise with the outfits, maybe create a vest or a skirt to alternate looks. Well, it's all decided on this one, he's a boy, so no skirt... :) I am still awaiting on what his name will be, not Trumpy though, I guess, - sorry Claire :))