It is amazing what can be made with just chains and slip stitches in different combinations. The foliage below is made by chaining, then folding the chain back on its self and securing with a slip stitch to make a loop. Combine several loops into clusters and make stems by slip stitching along a chain, and it makes an interesting botanical shape.
I followed a chart for a Monstera leaf that uses crocheted chains, slip stitches, and double crochet. The leaf looks complicated, but it is a simple concept: make a chain, slip stitch into the center, make another chain, slip stitch into the previous rib, then turn and double crochet back to the start.
I don’t really like that there isn’t much to the center of the leaf. I’ll have to come up with my own pattern.
I’m not sure what to call this crocheted foliage element, but at least it looks botanical. It uses only chain stitches and slip stitches to work the stems and branches: chain out, slip stitches back. There is quite a lot of potential in this simple stitch combination.
In February 2017 I was experimenting with my new air brush. I tried a design out on paper, then did it on a plank of wood.
For the words I used a stencil, then airbrushed in shadows.
This was a gift for a friend. I did enjoy the airbrush, but set up and clean up is an involved process, so I don’t use it often.
I switched tracks on what I am doing with the yarn remnants. I decided a need a new front door wreath, and am now making crocheted botanical elements.
This first leaf started with a chain, then I worked each side of the chain with single crochet, half-double crochet, double crochet, and triple crochet to make curved sides. The stem is slip stitched.
It is a humble beginning, but I hope it will bloom into something remarkable.
Critters and Craft 