Crochet-Along Clue 2

[linda817]

Love Clue 2!!

[Ryeshosho]

Whatever size you are getting is fine. That is why they included the instructions for blocking. Don't know how many times it has to be said lol Blocking, blocking, blocking and all the motifs will fit together beautifully. That is why we have the blocking templates. They were not meant to make you feel you are doing anything wrong

Have patience. Keep working at it and it will all work out!

[Lairy]

Blocking won't fix a nearly 2 inch difference --- I went back and re-tried with a "loose" tension with the same hook and hit the measurement nearly spot on. In my opinion - a loose tension recommendation would have been good to include in the directions.

Back to work I go!

[Bimpnottin]

I was ready to tear my hair out yesterday while trying to figure this out.

Different day, different perspective. I've got 4 done and working on #5. I finally GOT IT!

Now, I'm a pretty self-taught beginner crocheter and I'm using the hook sizes they say to use and my squares were just about right now - without being blocked (have never done that - I'll get around to it).

This pattern is only about 1/2" off, so I should be right on after blocking and my edges will be the same size.

So, I don't know if I'm lucking out because I don't know the "right" way to do these things, so I just go with it (today ) or what, but it's working.

I did have to stop looking at the written instructions for the first couple of pieces, but now that I figured it out, I'm using the pattern and it's working.

I've never really followed a pattern before, I just do whatever to my afghans and hope, so patterns, both written and diagrams are brand new to me.

[JustBets]

Agreeing with the blocking. My finished motif measures around 10 inches; BUT when I put it on the blocking template and stretch it (this pattern has a lot of give to it), it easily will block to the 11 inches. Blocking also opens up the pattern so you can see the lovely design.

[jencee72]

I must make a confession... I took 1 look at this pattern yesterday & totally psyched myself out! Luckily, a very patient & experienced crocheter at work is doing this as well & she very kindly helped me 3 different times- even as she sat down to enjoy her lunch. Elaine, you rock!!!!
I'm about to start my 4th octogon & I actually get it now- YAY
This is a beautiful pattern & I'm so proud of the fact that I'm doing it & not quitting. Can't wait to see this completed- I know its going to bring me joy every time I use it. Good luck everybody still plugging away!!!!!!!

[linda2012]

I've been crocheting for about 35 years, self-taught, and I'm loving this CAL. I was kind of hoping for a blanket with a tighter pattern, but I think this one will be beautiful. After reading some of the posts I just decided to move up a hook size and work VERY loosely....as in just letting the yarn loop over my fingers.....and my motif for Clue 2 came out to 10-1/2 inches. I'm happy with that, and after making many afghans with all kinds of blocks, I don't worry about gauge too much as long as it's close and the connecting sides are the same size/same number of stitches. However, while I love the flower design, I'm not real happy with the "loose-ness" of this motif, and I think I'll work the next one a bit more tightly, and use a couple of rows of extended double crochet or add a round or two of single crochet. If I like the looks of it, I'll frog the first one and re-do it. "Frog".....had not heard that one before, but I love it!

I was also having a bit of a problem with rows 5-6, until I went to the chart and used it instead of the printed instructions. Actually this is the first time I've used charts, and find that it's a much easier method than having to decipher the printed code! For those who are saying they wish there was a stitch count in the pattern for each row.....there is! Just count the stitches for each row or section in the chart and you've got it.

[Lairy]

My re-do of clue one in a loose tension to match my second attempt at clue 2 in a loose tension seems to have done the trick. While the newly loosened clue 1 measures slightly more than the suggested measurement - it does match up to the edge of the loosened up clue 2 piece! Both done with the suggested hook also!

For those working with a variety of yarns from your stash -- I am working with a total of 3 different yarns -- and with the loosened tension was able to hit the mesurements nearly spot on. In my opinion a nice loose tension, gentle and soft like the yarn we are using is the way to go!

Now that I have all the bugs worked out --- I can finish out and prepare for next Wed.! Woohoo!

[patbeth]

5 down 1 to go for clue 2, yeah!

[SDRVer]

I have finished two in A which measured about 10", but after blocking were just short of 11". I followed the written instructions thru row 4, then followed the chart. I had never followed a chart before, but it sure helped on this block. I also used the chart to check the double crochet count between each "corner" before moving on to the next section.