Tag: fandom

FKC Faves: 5 Best YA Book Series for Adult Readers

Best YA Book Series to Read

Book Recommendations: YA Books Series to Read (Even as an Adult)

“Young Adult,” or “YA” is a strange way to label a massive genre of literature.  I find it a little misleading, limiting, and just plain odd. As an intense lover of books – VARIOUS types of books – and someone with a Master’s in English Literature, I consider myself fairy “in the know” about books.  So, I feel confident in my ability to say that if you are an adult, and you don’t read books labeled YA because you feel that you are not their target audience and therefore wouldn’t like them, you are likely missing out. 

I don’t believe in “guilty pleasures.” As the magnificent Dave Grohl says, “I don’t believe in guilty pleasures. If you fucking like something, like it. … That whole guilty pleasure thing is full of fucking shit.”  You heard the man. Don’t be afraid to like what you like. I take that advice all the time, and that is what led me to start down the rabbit role of reading YA literature, particularly YA Fantasy. 

Why YA Books Are For You 

And, once I started, I really couldn’t stop.  I have discovered so many creative, fun, and truly badass writers. I tend to prefer female authors, and I love me a strong female character.  I’m also a sucker for a love story of some kind, though I typically like there to be some adventure thrown in, too. Most of all, I want to read solid characters – round, developed characters with some top-notch dialogue.  That is what really sells me – if I can feel invested in the characters, I can feel invested in the book. 

That said, here is my list of the 10 Best YA Book Series for Adult Readers.  Clearly, I have not read all the YA Series out there, so this list is not really the “best of all time,” more like “the best I’ve read lately.” I like a series, because once I attach to characters, I want to be with them for a while, so I’ve excluded stand-alone books. 

Will you love all of them? Probably not.   Am I missing some really amazing series on this list? I fully expect I am.  So, be sure to tell me what you think – what you’d add to the list, especially, in the comments.

(This post contains affiliate links. See my full disclosure policy here.)

What to read

A Note About Formats – Audiobook vs. Ebook vs. Physical Books

There may not be anything I love more than holding a physical book in my hand, turning over the pages, and breathing it in.  I LOVE books. Actual books – especially the well-worn, slightly musty kind.

That said, I was reluctant to ever read an ebook or listen to an audiobook. But, I’ve discovered that there is a place and time for all three format in my life, and I’m not a traitor to my paper and ink if I pop in my Air Pods or swipe through an ebook in a waiting room. 

I love the ability to read a physical book – I love the look and feel of them – I like to be surrounded by them.  But I also like the convenience of being able to read on the go with just my phone – on a plane or waiting for my kids at Ninja class. So, I also download ebooks.  

Similarly, I am a knitter, crocheter, walker and puzzler.  So, I listen to a lot of audiobooks. I love the ability to combine my love of reading and my other hobbies.  So I listen to plenty of audiobooks, too.  

So, you’ll see that in my recommendations below, I’m also liking to the ebooks and the audiobooks.  Give them a try. I promise, you will learn to love all three formats.  

Try Audible for Free

Pro tip – signing up for an Audible membership has been the best thing I’ve done in a long time.  I utilize the digital resources from my local libraries – and I mean, I really utilize the heck out of them – my holds shelves are always full, but sometimes I cannot wait the 19 Weeks or whatever to get the next book in a series.  So, while I love the fact that I can listen to audiobooks and read ebooks for free from the library, I also sometimes NEED to listen to the next book in a series before it’s available. So, I signed up for Audible and I really love it.  So, if you want to give Audible a try, they offer a free trial (which is how they got me), which you can sign up for right here: Audible Free Trial.

5 YA Book Recommendations 

  1. A Court of Thorns and Roses Series by Sarah J. Maas

Books Included: A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Wings and Ruin, A Court of Frost and Starlight

What it is: A fantasy adventure with romance and a lot of style. Sort of a fairytale “retelling,” but quite a bit more than that. 

Why I liked it: Honestly, the main reason I enjoyed the first book was because I wasn’t sure how it was going to end.  I was anxious to see where the series was going to go. Also, there were some characters that really intrigued me, and they proved to be even more intriguing as the series progressed. The second and third books in the series were the best, by far.

Notable quote: “Pity those who don’t feel anything at all.” – Sarah J. Maas, A Court of Thorns and Roses

A Court of Thorns and Roses Box Set
  1. The Infernal Devices Series by Cassandra Clare

What it is:  A prequel series to the City of Bones series about Shadowhunters, those who fight dark forces in the world. Supernatural underworld, swoon-worthy characters – you get the point.

Why I liked it: In my opinion, this prequel series is better than the original books, mainly due to the Victorian Era London setting and the character development.

Notable quote: “Only the very weak-minded refuse to be influenced by literature and poetry.” – Cassandra Clare, Clockwork Angel

The Infernal Devices Box Set
  1. The Selection Series by Kiera Cass

What it is:  A dystopian, elegant “bachelor” style novel that somehow manages to pull you in and keep you engaged. It’s a mix between a reality competition and the hunger games – if the hunger games contestants didn’t kill one another and wore ball gowns.

Why I liked it: I honestly didn’t think I’d like this series, but I got reeled in. I am a sucker for a good love triangle (or square, or rhombus, or trapezoid). Class differences and political scheming add layers of depth, making it an overall engaging read.

Notable quote: “I should have known that if any girl was going to disobey an order, it would be you.”― Kiera Cass, The Selection

The Selection Series Box Set
  1. Red Queen Series by Victoria Aveyard

What it is: The series follows Mare Barrow, a badass female warrior in a dystopian society that is comprised of two classes: the silver-blooded rulers and the red-blooded oppressed.

Why I liked it: I got a lot of Hunger Games vibes from this book, but it did some different things, too. There were some morally ambiguous characters, which I always love. Similarly, the abilities/powers of the characters were more sci-fi and different from what I’ve seen before.

Notable quote: “The truth is what I make it. I could set this world on fire and call it rain.” ― Victoria Aveyard, Red Queen

Red Queen Box Set
  1. Simon Snow Series by Rainbow Rowell

What it is: The Simon Snow Series, at the time I’m writing this, is two books, Carry On and Wayward Son. The third book, Any Way the Wind Blows, is apparently in the works. The series is a fantasy series about magical beings, a la Harry Potter, with plenty of mystery, drama, romance and humor.

Why I liked it: The DIALOGUE! The INTERIOR MONOLOGUE! This book was not something I was sure I’d enjoy, but man, did Simon Snow convince me with his narration. And then I met Baz, and it was all downhill from there. The characters are so alive, entertaining, funny and lovable.

Notable quote: “You were the sun, and I was crashing into you. I’d wake up every morning and think, ‘This will end in flames.” ― Rainbow Rowell, Carry On

So, tell me – which of these are you looking forward to reading? What would you add to the list? Let me know in the comments! 

Book recommendations for adults

Let’s Connect! 

Want to see what I’m reading or, better yet, keep track of your own reading and get some spot-on recommendations? Head over to Goodreads! You can “friend” me right here: http://www.goodreads.com/jerisswanhorst.

Want to talk books, fandom, or crafts? Join me and a whole community of fandom-lovers in the free, private facebook group “Fandom Knitting & Crochet – Group.” I’d love to see you there!

You should also hop over to the sidebar and subscribe to the newsletter to keep up to date on all the new patterns. 

Also, head over to Instagram and follow me to see the latest updates and @fandom.knitting.crochet.

Fandom Spotlight: Diana Peterfreund

Author Diana Peterfreund knits and crochets!

An interview with Author Diana Peterfreund about crocheting, writing, and fandoms.

When I started the Facebook group Fandom Knitting & Crochet – Group, I was pleasantly surprised to see oodles of talented knitters and crocheters quickly join the community. There were others out there – people that love to knit, crochet, and binge-watch TV with total abandon. Voracious readers, movie-goers and gamers, all who use those fandoms as inspiration for their yarn crafts.

What I didn’t expect was to find group members meeting creators of their own fandoms within the group. In one of those early weeks, a member, minding her own business and chatting crochet, was asked, “Wait…are you THE Diana Peterfreund?”

Yes, yes she is. And whether she likes it or not, she is a bit of a celeb for some of her fellow fandom yarnies. For those of you that don’t already know Diana and her work, she is a novelist, know for her Secret Society Girl Series, Killer Unicorn Series, Star Series, and the Omega City Series. She has also written short stories and non-fiction.

So, I went out and read one of her books, For Darkness Shows the Stars, and thoroughly enjoyed it. I asked Diana which of her books I should read first, and she sold me on this one by describing it as “angsty and romantic…a futuristic Austen retelling.” Totally fit that description – well worth a read.

The Interview

What I knew about Diana (from the group) was that she was a master at making fantastic crochet and knitwear to wear to conventions and for fun. So, I thought I’d ask her to share a bit about her writing AND her knitting and crochet in this interview.

She was kind enough to agree to answer some questions, so here is a good chunk of the interview. I hope you enjoy and find it as interesting as I do to learn a bit more about a fellow yarny fangirl.

Interview:

  • I think it was within the first few weeks of starting the group that a member said… “Wait…you are THE Diana Peterfreund??” It was pretty cool to see that we have an author in our group. So – how did a writer find herself in a knitting and crochet group?

DP: I’m actually in a couple of Facebook groups for crochet–but yours is by far the best! That was a great moment, I’ll admit. And it was so much fun because Crystal and I got to talking and she made me this awesome set of comic book art fingerless gloves and we met up at DragonCon. I love these gloves. I wear them all the time because my hands get cold on the keyboards in winter.

I was taught how to crochet by my grandmother when I was younger, and then I learned to knit (poorly) in college. I would make the occasional thing over the years, but then in 2017 I made a hat for the Women’s March for a friend and it was just such a huge stress reliever and very meditative and I became obsessed. I found the website Ravelry (I’m “dianablue”) at the same time, I realized that crochet was so much more than those sort of 70s patterns that I thought I knew, I learned I could teach myself new techniques with YouTube, I could join Facebook groups… it became a deeply important hobby for me.  

  • As a writer, you have taken inspiration from other writers (such as Jane Austen).  What writers inspire you most?

DP: One of the things I love about retellings or adaptations is the idea that you are connecting to the collective unconscious, these characters or storylines that have become the fabric of our society. Which is kind of what fandom is, right? This sort of wink and nod that you know what I know, and that’s whether or not you say “I’m writing this story based on Jane Austen” or you’re walking around in a Dr. Who scarf. It gives you this extra sense of connection with the people who also see it and recognize it and then you are starting from a place of commonality.

I think we’re all inspired by the life around us and by the stories we love, whether we’re explicitly writing a retelling or not. When I sat down to write Omega City, my middle grade series, I wanted to write a story for kids that gave me that same funny, adventurous treasure-hunting feel I got from watching The Goonies as a kid. So I can say to you, this is an adventure story, and you may know what I mean, but it would be better if I say, “It’s like the Goonies, but with spaceships” and then you remember the Goonies, and how it made you feel, and you understand I’m trying to create that same experience.

  • I was a literature major in college, too (though I certainly didn’t go to Yale! Holy impressive, Batman!) – was there one book or writer that really sparked you to say…”this is it.  I am going to be a writer”?

DP: I always wanted to be a writer. My 5th grade English teacher wrote YA novels on the side, and when I was in high school I knew that, say, Michael Crichton was a doctor before making it big as a novelist, so I always had it on my head that writing was what you did on the side, and I just intended that to be my plan, too. I’ve been very lucky in my career that I’ve been able to make it my main profession for the last decade or so.

I do a lot of school visits and students often ask me what they should major in to become writers, and I always say not to major in creative writing. That part you can pick up — you should study something worth writing ABOUT. I was actually a Geology major in college. I double majored. The literature one was because Yale doesn’t have “minors” and I realized that because I took so many of those classes I could basically add it in at the last minute for the price of a thesis.

  • I read For Darkness Shows the Stars, and I really loved it. I am an Austen fan, and I enjoy a good love story.  Throw in some sci-fi, and I am sold. Elliot is a fantastic character – is it a mission of yours to write strong female characters? [I personally think she is a great example of feminism – making her own choices for her own reasons.]

DP: Thank you! I had a real mission with Elliott. I had just come off four books writing about Amy Haskell, who is my loud mouth, in your face, Ivy League co-ed in the Secret Society Girl series, and then two books writing about Astrid Llewellyn, who is a badass warrior in the killer unicorn books, and I wanted to write about a different kind of strength. Elliot is not outspoken. She is not physically strong. I wanted to portray a woman who found her strength in another way. I think her counterpart, Anne Elliot, in Jane Austen doesn’t have the flash and sparkle of say, Elizabeth Bennet, and it’s easy to forget how strong she is. So I wanted to see if I could write someone like that.

  • For someone unfamiliar with your work, which book should she start with?

DP: I guess it depends on what they want to read. For funny, modern, chick litty type of stuff: Secret Society Girl. If they are a fan of urban fantasy (like Buffy the Vampire Slayer), the killer unicorn books Rampant and Ascendant. Jane Austen lovers or people who like post apocalyptic sci fi should go for For Darkness Shows the Stars. For a lush, glitzy sci fi novel, or if you can’t get enough Scarlet Pimpernel in your life, Across a Star-Swept Sea. And if you like the Goonies, Omega City! I know, I’m not a person who can stay in her lane.

  • Aside from the literary, what are some of your main fandoms (tv, movies, pop culture)? What was the last thing you got really hooked on watching?

DP: I’m a real TV addict. I think if I could go back in time, I’d go into television writing instead of novels. Current TV obsessions are The Good Place, because the marriage of Mike Schur and Kristen Bell is basically my dream team, and Schitt’s Creek. I’m waiting on tenterhooks for my beloved Game of Thrones to return. I just heard Jordan Peele is rebooting The Twilight Zone? There are some more obscure shows I was obsessed with, like the recent, totally-bananas BBC Dirk Gently adaptation and the trippy Legion starring my television boyfriend Dan Stevens (from Downton Abbey, which I also loved). For movies, almost everything I see is either Marvel or for kids, or both (Spiderverse was incredible!). I’m also obsessed with Riverdale but I haven’t seen the most recent season.

  • If you could knit or crochet for any three fictional characters from any fandom, who would they be and what would you make?

DP: This makes me think I should write some characters that knit and crochet. There are not enough characters that knit or wear knitwear in fandom! It’s like, Mrs. Weasley, and Jayne from Firefly, mostly. Nakia’s cowl from Black Panther made me gasp out loud in the theater. I loved all the attention to fiber and detail in that movie. I also love all Sabrina Spellman’s gorgeous sweaters. (I like the costumes more than the show!)

Because I cosplay at DragonCon every summer, I’m always looking for characters who could wear yarncraft. I made that Katniss cowl from Catching Fire, but it’s way too hot to wear that in August in Atlanta. You have to get creative. Last year, my friends and I did a group costume: Leiapalooza, and we did different versions of Leias as if she were at a music festival. (This is what we do — either mashups or twists on our cosplay. Another year we did Elsa and Anna on summer vacation, in bathing suits and sarongs.) I was Cloud City Leia and instead of her long white robe, I crocheted an airy, boho long white vest with the symbol of the rebellion on it. I designed it myself. I should probably put up the pattern somewhere.

  • What type of projects do you like to crochet/knit? What is your favorite knitted or crocheted project to date?

DP: I mostly do things I can wear. I get bored too quickly to tackle blankets, though my grandmother is an afghan goddess. I also like to make presents for friends that match their books. The best piece of advice I ever got was from my friend Katee Robert, who is also a novelist and the faster knitter I know, to not do easy, boring stuff, but to pick challenges that you really wanted, because it would push you to learn the skill to complete it. And this is so true. I learned continental knitting, color stranding, AND intarsia to make this Chewbacca-themed shawl (Fuzzball Bandolier is the name of the pattern) I made last summer. But I wanted that darn shawl. It was such a labor of love. My other favorite project was this beaded mermaid tail hat I made for my mermaid-obsessed daughter. Basically I just added beads and a few flourishes to a Osage County Crochet pattern (I believe Sadie is a member of the group too). Beading is shockingly easy for how fancy it makes your finished project look (I used the dental floss method). I encourage everyone to bead something if they have the chance.

  • What are you working on now (writing-wise and yarn-wise)?

DP: I’m so excited about my next series: a trilogy of young adult mystery novels based on the board game CLUE. I got to invent a new mansion, new formulations of the beloved characters, new motives for murder, everything! The first one will be out from Abrams this October, and it’s called IN THE HALL WITH THE KNIFE. You can read more about it here: https://www.bustle.com/p/a-clue-inspired-ya-novel-is-coming-out-this-year-start-reading-in-the-hall-with-the-knife-now-16978527

And I’m still working on a very complex colorwork scarf project that I picked up in order to learn more about colorwork. It’s supposed to look like the Maryland flag when it’s done. We’ll see!

A huge thanks to Diana for taking the time to share with us!

Let’s Connect!

If you aren’t already a member, and you like knitting, crochet, and/or fandom, join us in the “Fandom Knitting & Crochet – Group.” I’d love to see you there!

You should also hop over to the sidebar and subscribe to the newsletter to keep up to date on all the new patterns and fandom, yarny goodness.

GoT Shawls KCal 2019

Knit/Crochet Along Prep & Yarn Recs

March 4-April 14

Shawls are coming! It is almost time to kick-off our Game of Thrones-inspired Knit and Crochet Along here at Fandom Knitting + Crochet. We are going to be making some lovely shawls as we await the premiere for the FINAL season of Game of Thrones, which airs on April 14th.

So, how do you get started?

(This post is in no way affiliated with Game of Thrones or HBO. It is simply a fan activity. This post may contain affiliate links.)

Step 1: Sign up to Get the Updates

First thing’s first – if you would like to get the email updates, including the weekly schedule, tips, etc, you can sign up here: JOIN THE KCAL NOW!

Step 2: Choose your Pattern & Prep

We will be working two shawls – one knit and one crochet. These were the most popular choices (as determined in the Fandom Knitting & Crochet FB Group) (Not a member? Go and join – you will find many fandom/yarny friends and you can share your progress there.)

So, we have a knit shawl and a crochet shawl.  They are not meant to look the same, just a general “feel” in common. They are loosely inspired by the dragons from Game of Thrones. Here at FKC, we tend to lean toward the more “inspired by” rather than literal interpretations of fandoms. (Note: we LOVE literal fandom projects – we just try to skew toward loose interpretations for our KCals.)

GoT Shawls FKC KAL/CAL Patterns:

“Lizard” image ©Morben Design, “Martinmas” image ©Izamight

“Lizard” by Jasmin Räsänen (Crochet)

 “Martinmas Shawl” by Sarah B. Abram (Knit)

You can get the full scoop on these pattern choices by going to the original GoT Shawls KCAL post right here: GoT Shawls.

Step 3: Get Your Supplies

The beauty of a shawl is that you don’t have to follow the yarn and needle/hook guidelines precisely.  If you want to make the shawl larger or smaller, you can adjust your yarn size and how many rows you complete.  Easy peasy.  So, if you want to work up the shawl faster, try using a light weight yarn, rather than fingering.  Just be sure to size-up your needles or hook accordingly, as well.

The recommended yarn weight and yardages are here, and I have some specific yarn and supply recommendations included here, as well.

Note: I am providing two yarn weight suggestion options: fingering weight and medium weight. The patterns call for fingering weight, so I’m giving some of those suggestions, but I’m also including medium-weight suggestions for people that would rather use a larger yarn.

You will have time to find or order some yarn as we will be working on this over 6 weeks. So, you can catch up if your yarn is a few days late. 😉 Of course, any yarn from your stash dying to be used will work just as well, too.

The Inspiration: The Dragons!

I decided to go with color schemes inspired by Dany’s dragons from GoT, Drogon (black with red markings), Rhaegal (green with bronze markings), and Viscerion (cream with gold markings).

via GIPHY

Lizard Yarn Suggestions

  • Recommended Yarn Weight: Fingering
  • Yardage Needed: 776 yards. (if using a greater yarn weight, you’ll need fewer yards)
  • I recommend:
Game of Thrones yarn recommendations.
  1. Hawthorne Fingering Kettle Dye Yarn – Blackbird (Fingering Weight, Drogon) – http://shrsl.com/1h7gj
  2. Stroll Tonal Sock Yarn – Matcha (Fingering Weight, Viserion) – http://shrsl.com/1h7g0
  3. -5. Lion Brand Heartland Yarn – Black Canyon (Drogon), Acadia (Rhaegal), and Saguaro (Viserion) (Medium Weight, http://shrsl.com/1h7in)

Martinmas Yarn Suggestions

  • Recommend Yarn Weight: Light fingering/Fingering weight yarn
  • Yardage Needed: 350-420 yards each of two different colors (if using a great yarn weight, you’ll need fewer yards)
  • I recommend:
  • 1-2. Lindy Chain in Black and Hollyberry (Fingering weight, Drogon); Lindy Chain in Linen and Tumeric (Fingering weight, Rhaegal) – http://shrsl.com/1h7lb3-5. Heartland in Black Canyon and Badlands (Medium weight, Drogon); Acadia and Grand Canyon (Medium weight, Rhaegal); Heartland in Saguaro and Mammoth Cave (Medium weight, Viscerion) – http://shrsl.com/1h7in

Step 4: Mark your Calendar

Mark you calendar for the schedule of the Starting Date! You’ll want to get your supplies by the first week, if possible. Our kick-off is March 4th!

Again, if you haven’t already signed up for the email list, you will want to do that to get all the official KAL/CAL updates and weekly schedule.  Also, be sure to join the Fandom Knitting & Crochet Facebook Group to share your progress and interact with your fellow stitchers throughout the process!

2018 Fandom Knitting + Crochet Awards – Winners

Fandom Knitting and Crochet 2018 Award Winners

And the winners are…

2018 was a HUGE year for Fandom Knitting + Crochet. Why? Well, it was this blog and community’s birth year! I started this blog in March of 2018 to share my love of fandom-inspired knitting and crocheting, and I was just crossing my fingers that I would find other crafters with similar interests out there in the world.

And…I did! I am so grateful for the fantastic, supportive, inspiring community that is the Fandom Knitting + Crochet Group (which you should totally join if you haven’t already), and these awards are just an indication of the amount of complete geekiness and craftiness and fandom-ness that happen on this blog and in that group.

2018 Fandom Knitting + Crochet Award Categories, Nominations & Votes

The idea of creating our own FKC Awards was really the result of two things. 1) I LOVE awards shows, top 10 (or any number, really) lists, countdowns, etc. and 2) I wanted to have a sort-of time capsule of what was “in” and beloved by people in this group at the end of a year as a sort of recap for posterity.

The categories were just things I thought people would like to vote on and things that we often discuss in the FKC community. Looking back, there are some categories I would like to add, but there’s always next year. (If you have suggestions for categories, let me know in the comments.)

After a call for nominations in those categories, I took the most requested nominees and put together a quick ballot. Voting took place for about a week, and the results were then tallied.

So, without further delay….here are our 2018 Fandom Knitting + Crochet Award Winners!

And the Winners Are…

So, that’s it, folks. We can close the book on 2018 and start discussing all our current faves in 2019!

Let’s Connect!

I’d love to hear what your thoughts are – which winners do you find surprising? What categories would you like to see next year (song of the year, perhaps)? Let us know in the comments!

Are you a Fandom Knitting + Crochet group member on Facebook? If so, good decision. 😉 If not, come on over and join us! Join the group right here.

Want to keep up with all the latest updates from Fandom Knitting + Crochet? Free patterns, yarn suggestions, tips + tutorials, nonsensical annual awards…of course you do! Subscribe to our mailing list right here.

Oculus Fan-tastic Crochet Ornament – Pattern

Oculus Fan-tastic Crochet Christmas Ornament
Crochet Christmas Ornaments
A Crochet Pattern by Jeris from Fandom Knitting & Crochet

*This post may contain affiliate links.  See my full disclosure policy here.  

Nerdy + Christmas = Oculus Ornaments! 

When I wanted to fandom-ize my Christmas tree this year, the first thing that came to mind were a pair of round glasses! So…the Oculus ornament was born.

Crocheters often spend loads of time making gifts for family and friends around the holidays, and this could certainly be gifted to a nerdy cousin or bff – but I made this one for ME, and you can make yours for YOU! Go on, you deserve to keep some of your hard work for yourself. 

One of the absolute, hands-down favorite fandoms in the Fandom Knitting & Crochet group (FKC Group) is you-know-who, the boy who lived, lighting scarface. Here’s a good place to note that this pattern is a geeky ornament, not associated with any one specific glasses wearer. 

Okay, that said – what you’ll find here is a crochet ornament cover pattern that includes FREE written instructions right here on the blog. 

Should you want a printable pdf version, which includes a handy-dandy graph of the ornament, you can find that for purchase right here at my Etsy shop: Oculus Pattern PDF Download with Graph. 

Crochet Christmas Ornaments

Should you want to make a few solid ornaments to go with the Oculus one, here is the solid version of the Fan-tastic Crochet Ornaments. 

Add this pattern to your Ravelry Queue right here. 

Pattern for Oculus Fan-tastic Ornaments

The pattern is worked with worsted-weight yarn and a size G-6 crochet hook. You’ll need two colors of yarn – I used Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice in White and Dark Grey Heather.  If your gauge is too large or small, just jump down or up a hook size or two. Easy peasy.

The pattern is worked in rows, which will be seamed around the plastic bulb. The top is open enough to fit around the top of the bulb, and the bottom is cinched and the back seam sewn with the yarn needle.

Download the PDF with graph:  Oculus Pattern PDF Download with Graph. 

Oculus Fantastic Crochet Ornaments

Materials:

Gauge:

Approximately 8 stitches & 8 rows = 2″

*Note: These will be stretched around the ornament, and this gauge was calculated after stretched to fit the ornament.

abbreviations:

  • ch = chain
  • sc = single crochet
  • 2sc = create two single crochet stitches in the next stitch
  • sc2tog = single crochet two stitches together
  • MC = Main Color (pictured in White)
  • CC = Contrast Color (pictured in Dark Grey Heather)

Pattern:

The piece is worked in flat rows and will be sewn together at the back when placed around the ornament. 

Start with MC until specified to use CC: 

Row 1: With MC, Ch 17. Sc in 2nd chain from the hook and in each chain across. (16 sc). Ch 1. Turn.

Row 2: (2sc in first stitch, sc 3) across. (20 sc). Ch 1. Turn.

Row 3: (2 sc, sc 4) across. (24 sc). Ch 1. Turn.

Row 4: (2sc, sc 5) across. (28 sc). Ch 1. Turn.

Row 5: 2sc, sc 6, 2sc, sc 4 CC, sc 2 MC, 2sc MC, sc MC, sc 4 CC, sc MC, 2sc MC, sc 6 MC. (32 sc). Ch 1. Turn.

Row 6: 2sc MC, sc 7, 2sc (1st MC, 2nd CC), sc 4 MC, sc 1 CC, sc 2 MC, 2sc MC, sc CC, sc 4 MC, sc CC, sc MC, 2sc MC, sc 7 MC. (36 sc). Ch 1. Turn. 

Row 7: 2sc MC, sc 7 MC, 2 sc MC, sc CC, sc 6 MC, sc CC, 2sc MC, sc MC, sc CC, sc 6 MC, sc CC, 2sc MC, sc 6 MC, 2sc MC. (40 sc). Ch 1. Turn.

Row 8: sc 7 MC, sc 4 CC, sc 6 MC, sc CC, sc 3 MC, sc CC, sc 6 MC, sc 4 CC, sc 8 MC (40 sc). Ch 1. Turn. 

Row 9: sc 11 MC, sc CC, sc 6 MC, sc 5 CC, sc 6 MC, sc CC, sc 10 MC. (40 sc). Ch 1. Turn. 

Row 10: sc 10 MC, sc CC, sc 6 MC, sc CC, sc 3 MC, sc CC, sc 6 MC, sc CC, sc 11 MC. (40 sc.) Ch 1. Turn. 

Now begin decreasing as follows: 

Row 11: sc2tog MC, sc 7 MC, sc2tog MC, sc MC, sc CC, sc 4 MC, sc CC, sc MC, sc2tog MC, sc 2 MC, sc CC, sc 4 MC, sc CC, sc2tog MC, sc 9 MC. (36 sc). Ch 1. Turn. 

Row 12: sc2tog MC, sc 7 MC, sc2tog MC, sc 4 CC, sc 3 MC, sc2tog MC, sc MC, sc 4 CC, sc 2 MC, sc2tog MC, sc 7 MC. (32 sc.) Ch 1. Turn. 

Row 13: With MC, (sc2tog, sc 6) across. (28 sc). Ch 1. Turn. 

Row 14: With MC, (sc2tog, sc 5) across. (24 sc). Ch. 1. Turn. 

Row 15: With MC, (sc2tog, sc 4) across. (20 sc). Ch 1. Turn.

Row 16: With MC, (sc2tog, sc 3) across. (16 sc). Ch 1. Turn. 

Row 17: With MC, (sc2tog, sc 2) across. (12 sc). Ch 1. Turn.

Row 18: With MC, (sc2tog) across. (6 sc). 

Finishing:

Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail to sew the ornament seam.  I leave about 18″ of yarn just to be safe.

Weave in the loose end at the beginning of your piece.

Using the long tail from where you fastened off, draw the yarn through the remaining 6 stitches, cinching them up.

Place the crochet piece around the plastic ornament. NOTE: You’ll need to pull the crochet piece to stretch around the ornament.  You want the stitches to be taught. 

Sew the back seam of the ornament. I like to use whipstitch, but you can seam any way you like.

Let’s Connect!

If you have any questions about the pattern or supplies, or you just want to talk fandom, knitting, or crocheting – or share your project photos (or even to request a fandom themed project), join me in the free, private facebook group “Fandom Knitting & Crochet – Group.” I’d love to see you there!

You should also hop over to the sidebar and subscribe to the newsletter to keep up to date on all the new patterns. 

If you make this project, share it with me on Instagram: @fandom.knitting.crochet.

Thanks for checking out the pattern!

2018 Fandom Knitting & Crochet Awards – Nominate Your Favorites

I. Love. Awards. At the end of any year, my favorite way to procrastinate is reading all the Top 100s of the year, the year’s best books lists, the American Top 40 Countdown, the Oscar predictions. So, I got to thinking – why not create our own awards here at FKC?

What you’ll find here is a list of 20 categories – all related to fandom, knitting, and crochet.  What I need from you is your help creating the ballot.  This is a call for nominations! I have the categories here – I just want to know who and what you’d like to see make the ballot for voting.  So, please take a few minutes to nominate your favorites!

2018 FKC Awards Nomination Form

Fandom Spotlight: Women of Disney

The spotlight is on the Women of Disney (at least a few of them)! Get knitting and crochet patterns, yarns inspired by the characters, and some awesome fandom gear.

Women of Disney-Inspired Knitting and Crochet Patterns, Yarn, and Fandom Gear

Welcome to the second-ever Fandom Spotlight here at Fandom Knitting & Crochet!  The first one, our Harry Potter Fandom Spotlight, was so much fun to put together, and I got such wonderful feedback I decided to continue the series.  So, today, I bring you the Women of Disney.

So, why not Disney Princesses?  Well, I thought about that, and some of them aren’t really princesses.  So, I got to thinking, how about Disney Royals?  Well, that didn’t give the right “girl power” vibe, so I went with Women of Disney.

What you’ll find here is a collection of hand-picked knitting patterns, crochet patterns, yarn, and fandom gear that I personally love and find oh-so-fitting for celebrating the Women of Disney in the proper crafty fandom fashion.  While there are some “literal” interpretations of the characters these patterns and yarns inspire, I (as always) have also included a nice sampling of more loosely-related selections. 🙂

I hope you enjoy!

(This post contains affiliate links.  All opinions are my own.)

10 Women of Disney – Inspired Knitting & Crochet Patterns

While these patterns and are not officially associated with Disney, the inspiration can be seen if you are looking. 🙂 Here’s a round-up of some of my favorites to knit and crochet (some are my free designs, and some are fabulous patterns from other designers.)

  1. Rapunzel Scarf by Kate Lonsdale (Free Knitting Pattern)
  2. Disney Frozen Anna Doll by SarahBeth on Ravelry (Paid Crochet Pattern)
  3. Merida (Scarf) by Melissa G Martinez (Paid Knitting Pattern)
  4. Brave Scottish Princess Doll by Jana Whitley (Paid Crochet Pattern)
  5. Elsa’s Cable Socks by Valya Boutenko (Paid Knitting Pattern)
  6. Elsa (Shawl) by Christopher Salas (Free Knitting Pattern)
  7. Frozen Elsa Flip Doll by The Knitted Toybox (Free Knitting Pattern)
  8. Princess Anna Crochet Hat by Over the Apple Tree (Free Crochet Pattern)
  9. Ariel Cardigan by Simone Francis (Paid Crochet Pattern)
  10. Ariel Shawl by Kelly Spenhoff (Paid Knitting Pattern)

Royalty-worthy Yarn: Yarns Fit for a Princess

If you are looking for some perfectly princess-worthy yarn to create one of the projects above (or one of your own), I suggest using a yarn that comes in a variety of Women of Disney-type colors.

My recommendation for a general yarn is Swish DK from Knit Picks.  It is superwash, squishy, lovely, and affordable.  The best part is all of the colors! I have curated some of them in Disney-inspired combos in the photo above.  Here are the exact colors I pulled together:

  • For Elsa: Wonderland Heather
  • For Rapunzel: Sugar Plum & Carnation
  • For Merida: Rainforest Heather
  • For Snow: Dusk, Serrano, and Honey
  • For Tiana: Green Tea Heather
  • For Belle: Honey
  • For Anna: Bordeaux, Blak & Dusk

You can get all of these colors from Knit Picks right here.

Women of Disney Gear – Fandom Product Finds

So, if you’re like me, you want to show off your fandom.  It’s not just picking fandom-related projects to knit and crochet and carefully selecting yarn.  Sometimes it’s also about finding a cute fandom item that just brings a smile to your face.  So, if you’re looking for some Women of Disney fandom gear, here are my picks:

  • Mrs. Potts Ceramic Teapot available here.
  • Women’s Princess T-Shirt available here.
  • Disney Villians Faux Leather Handbag available here.

Want to See a Fandom Spotlight of Your Favorite Book, Series, or Movie?  Let Me Know!

If you want to give a suggestion for a fandom spotlight round-up of patterns, yarns, and products, comment here or let me know in the Fandom Knitting & Crochet Facebook Group.  Also, please keep in touch! Join the email newsletter list to get the latest updates on yarn and fandom goodies!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Crochet Pattern: Wizard School Spirit Beanie

Hogwarts house colors hat crochet pattern

Hogwarts-inspired Hat Crochet Pattern

This post may contain affiliate links. See my full disclosure policy here.

Harry Potter hat crochet pattern

Recently, I shared a free knitting pattern for the Wizard School Spirit Beanie.  It went over well, so, by popular demand, here’s a crochet version.  It is a bit different – this version is a little “slouchier,” which I think works nicely with the crochet stitches.  It retains the same Hogwarts Houses inspired design, this time worked up in Slytherin and Ravenclaw colors.

One tip as you are working on this – you don’t need to cut yarn on the color changes.  You can just carry the strands up with you.  Those strands will only show on the inside, and it will be all good from the outside and save you time weaving in unnecessary ends.

The pattern is a pretty easy one to work up, but you will need to know now to crochet in the back loops and the third loops.  If you aren’t familiar you can check out the tutorials I have linked here:

Crochet Wizard School Spirit Beanie (2)

The Pattern: Crochet Wizard School Spirit Beanie

  • Get the printer-friendly PDF download right HERE.
  • Pin for later to your Pinterest boards HERE.
  • Save to your Ravelry queue right HERE.
  • Read on for the free pattern below.

The samples I made are in the child (Slytherin colors) and adult sizes (Ravenclaw colors).  After working with the Heartland yarn, I decided to modify the recommended yarns to all Heartland, so the pictured Slytherin beanie isn’t in Heartland, but I assure you, it will look fabulous worked up in the Heartland shades.

Sizes:

To fit: 0-6 Months (6-12 Months, Toddler, Child, Adult)

Materials:

Lion Brand Heartland Yarn in Main Color and Contrast Color

For the Hogwarts-inspired house colors, I recommend:

  • Ravenclaw: Glacier Bay or Lake Clark with Mammoth Cave
  • Slytherin: Kings Canyon and Mount Rainier
  • Hufflepuff: Yellowstone and Black Canyon
  • Gryffindor: Redwood and Yellowstone

Size H-8 Crochet Hook

Yarn Needle

Gauge:

Approximately 15 stitches and 7 rows = 4″ in HDC

Abbreviations and Terms:

  • MC – Main color
  • CC – Contrast color
  • St – stitch
  • Ch – chain
  • HDC – half-double crochet
  • Back loop – work only through the back loop rather than the front and back loop of that stitch.
  • Third loop – work in the loop directly behind (and slightly below) the back loop.
  • ss – slip stitch
  • tog – together
Harry Potter Crochet Hat Pattern

Instructions:

Instructions are written for the smallest size with the larger sizes in the parentheses.

Band:

With MC, chain 8.

Row 1: HDC in the 2nd ch from the hook and in each ch across.  Turn.

Row 2: HDC in the back loop of each HDC across.  Turn.

Repeat Row 2 until the band measures 14 (16, 18, 19, 20) inches from the beginning.

Join the band with slip stitches to work in the round.

Hat ‘Body’:

Round 1: Working with the yarn still connected from the joining, you’ll now be working around the top edge of the band.  Chain 2.  Work HDC stitches evenly around the band.  You’ll want approximately 40 (48, 56, 64, 72) HDC stitches (or another multiple of 4 around there).  Join with ss.

Round 2: Ch 2. Work HDC in each HDC around.

Repeat Round 2 1 (1, 2, 2, 3) more times.

* Switch to CC

Work through the third loops of each HDC for 1 (1, 1, 2, 2) rounds, joining with a ss at the end of each round.

*Switch to MC

Work HDC through the third loops of each HDC around. Join with ss.

*Switch to CC

Work through the third loops of each HDC for 1 (1, 1, 2, 2) rounds, joining with a ss at the end of each round.

*Switch to MC

Work 1 round HDC through the third loop of each HDC around.  Join with ss.

Work 1 (1, 2, 2, 3) rounds of HDC through both loops as in normal HDC, joining rounds with ss.

* Switch to CC

Work through the third loops of each HDC for 1 (1, 1, 2, 2) rounds, joining with a ss at the end of each round.

*Switch to MC

Work HDC through the third loops of each HDC around. Join with ss.

*Switch to CC

Work through the third loops of each HDC for 1 (1, 1, 2, 2) rounds, joining with a ss at the end of each round.

*Switch to MC

Work 1 round HDC through the third loop of each HDC around.  Join with ss.

Work 0 (0, 0, 1, 2) rounds of HDC through both loops as in normal HDC, joining rounds with ss.

Decrease for Crown:

Round 1: (HDC 2, HDC 2tog) around.

Round 2: (HDC, HDC2 tog) around.

Round 3: HDC 2tog around.

Round 4: HDC 2tog around.

Finishing:

Fasten off.  Cut yarn, leaving a long tail.  Draw through the remaining stitches to close and secure the top of the hat.  Weave in all loose ends.

That’s it! You have yourself a lovely Crochet Wizard School Spirit Beanie! Now go ahead and make one in each house color. 🙂

Let’s Connect!

If you like this pattern, I would love for you to follow my blog via email, which you can do by entering your email address over on the sidebar.  It will give you the latest patterns and updates from Fandom Knitting & Crochet. Also, check me out on Facebook – Fandom Knitting & Crochet or even join my awesome Facebook Group!  I really enjoy getting to meet and interact with fellow crocheters and knitters!

On Instagram? Share any of your Fandom Knitting & Crochet makes with me over there @fandom.knitting.crochet.

15 Fantastic Fandom Patterns to Knit & Crochet

Free pattern round-up of fandom-inspired projects to knit and crochet.

(This post contains affiliate links, which are just recommendations of things I love from Amazon.)

Here at Fandom Knitting and Crochet, we love all things Fandom.  I find so much inspiration in the work of the talented knitting and crochet designers that also embrace the fandom-life.  This is a round-up of 15 of my favorite fandom-inspired free patterns, both for knitting and crochet.  Some of them are intricate and take some intermediate skills, while some are super quick and simple to complete.

Some of these patterns are very literal fandom patterns, while others are more loosely inspired by the source.  Whichever interpretation you prefer, there’s something for your fandom-loving heart on this list.  (Personally, I’ll take a little of both!)

I’ve provided the designer info and a link to accessing the free pattern.  If you don’t already have a Ravelry account, you’ll want to sign up for one.  It’s free and it is amazing.  I have way more projects saved in Ravelry than I could knit and crochet in hundreds of lifetimes, but it is a wonderful place to find, share, discuss, and document your knitting and crochet.

So, here we go! I’ve divided into knitting patterns first, then crochet.  Continue reading “15 Fantastic Fandom Patterns to Knit & Crochet”

Wizard School Spirit Beanie – Knitting Pattern

Make these house pride beanies to show off your Wizard School Spirit.

Hogwarts-inspired Knit Hat Pattern

This post may contain affiliate links. 

Here, we are nothing if not proud representatives of our Hogwarts houses! I am a Ravenclaw, of course, while my husband is a Gryffindor.  I have two boys, and I would like to think they follow in our footsteps, but they are a Slytherin and a Hufflepuff.  It’s just undeniable.

So, Ravenclaw or not, I really like the Gryffindor house colors, so that is the one I started with for this pattern.  The maroon and gold look great together, and they are usually a pretty good indication of a Potterhead.  I decided to work up the Hufflepuff next, because that used the same gold from the Gryffindor.  So, those are the lovelies in the photos.

Of course, you can make any size in any color combo you’d like.  The pattern is a classic beanie – not too fitted, not too slouchy, worked in stockinette stitch as an homage to the Prisoner of Azkaban-era house scarves from the films.  (I am not in any way affiliated with the books or films.  I am just a fan.  So, these are not “official” in any capacity.) Officially awesome, though.  Haha.

So, these are a fun, quick knit with a little striping.  You can work them in the round (like I did) or flat and seam them.  Just be aware that if you work flat, you’ll need to knit the “right side” and purl the “wrong side,” as is the case with stockinette stitch (which is knitting each round if in the round).  

Also, because of the stripes, you’ll want to make sure your seaming game is strong if you are working flat because you’ll want the stripes to line up.  Seaming isn’t bad at all, though.  I like this method: Mattress Stitch.

Wizard School Spirit Hat Knitting Pattern
Beanies in house colors – knit.

Pattern: Wizard School Spirit Beanie – 5 Sizes

  • Download a print-optimized PDF of the pattern HERE.
  • Pin this pattern for later HERE.
  • Add to your Ravelry queue right HERE.
  • Read on for the free pattern below.

Materials:

Worsted Weight Yarn (Medium 4 Weight) in two colors.  I recommend these combinations of Vanna’s Choice Yarn:

  • Gryffindor-inspired: Cranberry + Mustard
  • Hufflepuff-inspired: Mustard + Black
  • Slytherin-inspired: Kelly Green + Silver Grey
  • Ravenclaw-inspired: Navy + Taupe

Circular 16-inch (41cm) Size US 8 Knitting Needles. *If you are making the smallest size beanie, you may want to use a longer circular needle to work the magic loop or work it flat.

Yarn Needle

Pattern Sizes:

To fit sizes 0-6 Months (6-12 Months, Toddler, Child, Adult)

Gauge:

Approximately 15 stitches and 18 rows = 4″ in stockinette stitch

Abbreviations:

K – knit

P – purl

st – stitch

R – round

tog – together

M1 – make 1 by knitting into the front and back of the stitch

Stripe Pattern:

Begin stripe pattern 4 (4, 6, 8, 10) rounds after the increase row after completing the ribbing.

With Contrast Color: Work 2 rounds

With Main Color: Work 2 rounds

With Contrast Color: Work 2 rounds

With Main Color: Work 4 (4, 6, 8, 10) rounds

With Contrast Color: Work 2 rounds

With Main Color: Work 2 rounds

With Contrast Color: Work 2 rounds

Work the rest with the Main Color

Striped house colors beanie knitting pattern.
Stripe pattern for house pride beanies.

Instructions:

Cast on 48 (52, 56, 60, 68) stitches.  Join to work in the round.

Work (K2, P2) ribbing for 1.5 (2, 2, 2.5, 3 inches).

Increase round: Increase to 52 (56, 64, 68, 76) stitches by adding 4 (4, 8, 8, 8) stitches evenly on this round.  Do this by completing a M1 every 12 (13, 7, 7-8, 8-9) stitches in the round.  (It doesn’t have to be perfectly evenly distributed, just try to space out the M1 stitches.)

Work the Stripe Pattern (given above) in stockinette stitch until the piece measures 5.75 (6, 6.5, 7, 9) inches.

Decrease to shape the crown:

Round 1: (K2, K2tog) around. 39 (42, 48, 51, 57) stitches.

Rounds 2-3: Knit.

Round 4: (K1, K2tog) around. 26 (28, 32, 34, 38) stitches.

Rounds 5-6: Knit.

Round 7: (K2tog) around. 13 (14, 16, 17, 19) stitches.

Finishing:

Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail.  Draw the yarn through the remaining stitches using your yarn needle.  Secure.

Weave in all loose ends.

That’s it! Now make another one in a different house color or size!

Knitting Pattern Harry Potter Hat

If you’d like to make more fandom-inspired knitted or crocheted items, check out my pattern round-up: 15 Fantastic Fandom Patterns to Knit and Crochet.

Looking for more patterns?

Check out my other knitting patterns right here.

Let’s Connect!

I hope you enjoy this pattern and have as much fun making these Wizard School Spirit Beanies as I did!  If you want to stay up-to-date on all the latest patterns, knitting, crochet, and fandom goodness, please sign up to follow the blog.  You can enter your email over on the sidebar. 🙂

I also have a Facebook page, which I’d love for your to follow, as well as a really fun group, which you can check out here.

On Instagram? Share any of your Fandom Knitting & Crochet makes with me: @fandom.knitting.crochet.