I am posting some of my
favorite techniques here
on my web site.
Many of the techniques I
use in my books are
created by me, and you
won't be able to access
from any other web sites.
Triple Cast on
I created this thicker
edge mostly to act as a
firm base for my scallop
lace trim, but it has
proved to be invaluable
any time I require a
firmer edge. For
doll clothes it is
perfect!
To begin you need to
determine how much yarn
you require to cast on.
I start with an
approximation.
Better to have more yarn
than to run out while
casting on.
As a rule, I use 3 times
the length of the cast
on edge. For
example, I know the
sleeve of a sweater is
2" wide on the needle.
So I will multiply 2" x
3, to make my cast on
thread to be 6" long.
But since it is tripled,
I fold the 6" length
onto the ball of yarn 2
more times so I have 3
-6" lengths of yarn to
begin.
To create my first
stitch, I fold the yarn
around the needle.
And continue with a
variation of a long tail
cast on.
Remember to keep
the triple strands at
the bottom - NOT on the
needle as shown.
The triple strands act
as a foundation for the
garment you are about to
create.
This is what the
first row looks like.
There is a small loop at
one end, and the cast on
threads (one single, one
triple) at the other
end. The small loop will
be clipped and woven
into the cast on row
when we are done.
This is after 2
rows are completed.
You are now ready for
your first row of
scallop lace. You
have a firm foundation
for your garment.
When you are finished,
clip the short loop
thread, and weave the
ends into your cast on
with a crochet hook or
darning needle.
The other side, clip the
straight thread close
the cast on edge being
very careful not to clip
anything you shouldn't.
Clip one edge of the
loop close to the cast
on edge, and use it as
your sewing thread to
sew up your garment.
Using loops rather than
single strands of yarn
eliminates knots and
weaving in numerous ends
(I hate finishing myself
- any short cuts are
appreciated).
Note to self:
take some better photos
<g>.
Scallop Lace Edge or
Scallop Lace Trim
Use with or without the
triple cast on.
The lace pattern is
simple, and printed in
all my books. Use
the triple cast on to
begin. Follow the
instructions written in
the book to complete the
4 or 6 row repeat pattern.
When complete, steam the
edge DO NOT LET THE IRON
TOUCH THE YARN as it may
melt depending on what
yarn you used.
Nothing worse than doing
all the work to ruin
your project in the
final stage.
Steaming your garment
will allow it lay flat
and give it a very
professional finish.
